My Off- and On- Line Dating Life

On A Timetable To Clean Once Again

2011-12-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

I have eight days to whip my place into shape once again. And I have to work and Christmas shop during that time too. Ouch. My niece is moving in with me, and I need to get her room in shape. And the rest of my house. Always a day and chore short! I bought a dirt devil dustbuster tonight and realized it has to be charged for 24 hours! That blows my plan to vaccum up the dog hair tonight. I need to do laundry, clean out her closet and change cat litter tonight. Surely I can get that done tonight. Can't I?

No Right Age To Go Through Menopause

2011-10-03T10:46:00.000-07:00

This article says there is no right age to go through menopause, but that the average age is 51. You are not considered to be in menopause until you go 12 consecutive months without a period. It also gives some info as to some risk factors connected to menopause and heart disease, etc.

I have not gone through menopause yet, but I guess it could start at any time. One thing I don't like though is how some of my women friends talk about it all the time. I just can't get into that. It is not my idea of fun to be with a bunch of women talking about menopause and hot flashes. Yuck. But then I never liked hearing women talk about childbirth either. Boring!

http://www.everydayhealth.com/menopause/at-what-age-will-you-enter-menopause.aspx?xid=aol_eh-meno_1_200110926&aolcat=AJA&icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl15%7Csec3_lnk2%7C100595

Embarrassing Wardrobe Malfunction!

2011-10-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

Ooh, another embarrassing wardrobe malfunction! And I am not talking about Nancy Grace's supposed wardrobe malfunction on Dancing With The Stars. I have a favorite pair of black slacks--they are Jones of New York and very nice. Slimming and stylish. I wear them all the time and can easily say they are my favorite pair of pants.

Well so obviously so that I realized Friday night there were two holes in my pants, right in both inseams. I was so embarrassed. I don't think anyone noticed, which is great. I had taken them out of the dryer and never notice the holes and put them on to go to a nightclub. I was sititng on a bar stool and thought all of a sudden that my pants felt funny. I went to the restroom and almost died when I saw the holes! I realize that it is a combination of my weighing too much and wearing the pants too much. How awful. I walked very carefully the rest of the night so as not to expose the holes. I would not have been able to get up and dance for anything!

Made me feel really ashamed that I have not lost weight yet. Trying, trying, trying....at least I need to try. My mindset is not right yet. But I want to lose weight this month. I want to look pretty again.

National Coffee Day. Get Your Freebies!

2011-09-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Today is National Coffee Day, and many places are giving away free or very cheap coffee.

Krispy Kreme, here I come!

http://www.delish.com/food/recalls-reviews/national-coffee-day-deals-2011?GT1=47001

What have you googled today?

2011-04-04T13:13:00.000-07:00

I don't know how I got through the day before google. I guess I used yahoo for searching then. But before that? I guess I went to the library or got information from the newspaper or TV or magazines. Seems like so long ago.

But now I google something multiple times a day. Weirdly enough, there are still times I can't find what I am looking for. Imagine that.

A lot of times I am looking for general information about something, but other times, I am wanting to find the name of a doctor or a business in my town. I guess there are some Local search marketing tools out there to help you find that kind of information. Usually my search turns up good results--most of the time but not always. Then I just try again!

Love Really Hurts After All

2011-03-29T16:46:00.000-07:00

I saw this article today that says that pain from rejection comes from the same place in the brain as actual injury. Isn't that something? The theory is that in cave man days, it was important not to get rejected and then abandoned. So rejection hurt and people would work to prevent being rejected. Hasn't that gotten all screwed up in these modern times? Lol!

But rejection and breaking up does hurt like a physical injury. I know when I have gone through a breakup, it feels like I have a hole in the middle of my body. And I do feel abandoned and scared. So that theory rings true with me. But why is it that some people don't feel this bad or to this degree when they are rejected?

http://www.aolhealth.com/2011/03/29/romantic-breakups-can-cause-physical-pain-study-shows/?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl11%7Csec1_lnk2%7C52769

Neptune Moves Into Pisces: More Love Will Be In The Air

2011-03-20T08:09:00.000-07:00

I am a pisces, so of course I believe in astrology. At least to the point where I believe it about myself. I am a true pisces. Saw this great article today on msn.com. More love will be in the air! I know for me, I am ready for it. More than ready for it.

http://glo.msn.com/relationships/this-months-astrology-moment-1534178.story?gt1=49038

I Still Need To Lose Weight!

2011-03-09T20:15:00.000-08:00

I am trying to find an easy way to kickoff my wieght loss. I used to buy a juice mix to do a three day juice fast, which would help you lose weight. I am going to look into some things like diet pills and something like
shakeology 3 day cleanse to see if they offer similar benefits. Wish me luck!

Achieving Work/Life Balance

2011-02-26T22:50:00.000-08:00

How do you want to live your life? Chained to a desk, barely making enough money to get by, never having enough time off, never getting to travel as much as you would like? Worrying about your future and if you will have enough money to live out your golden years?

Or would you like to work hard and smart and fast--say four hours a week--and make lots of money, maybe six figures? And have plenty of time for yourself--to enjoy your family, to travel extensively, to relax, do your hobbies, and maybe volunteer?

If you said the latter, you are not alone. There are plenty of people who want to design their life around the four-hour work week idea. It is not a gimmick; rather it is hard work. You find your niche--freelance writer, computer guru, designer, whatever, and come up with a plan to leverage your knowledge and talents. Work hard and then start to outsource. And wala! You will achieve your dreams.

Find out more about this work/life balance through Project Getaway. And join in the conversation on the forum.

I Want To Gallivant Around Europe

2010-12-21T19:49:00.000-08:00

One of the things I never get enough of is travel. Especially travel to new and unusal places. Exotic places. Any place actually.

I haven't been to Europe in about 4 years, and I am ready to go back. I am wanting to start researching about holidays europe to see what is out there. Price is always a consideration for me, so I will want to find affordable trips. I have found that affordable trips are often the most fun trips. I would also love to go to some of the countries that I have never been to,.

If I were to go by myself, I would want to travel with a group. Or I could try to find a friend or relative to go with me. The last couple times I traveled overseas I visited friends who were living temporarily in Europe, so I didn't have to worry about a travel partner. I just renewed my passport this year, so I am ready to go and looking for an opportunity!

Harry and David Promo Codes And Other Codes

2010-11-27T18:27:00.000-08:00

I would like to know more about online coupons. I need to save money and I like to shop, so I need to know how to save money when shopping. I know there are websites out there, where you can get online coupons or coupon codes. And then, wala! you get a discount.

Like for example, you can go to a website to get Harry and David coupon codes and Harry and David coupons. You can then use these to get such items as Harry and David Gift Baskets. I guess it is easy as that. I have tried to use online coupons before, and they haven't worked, but I have had better luck with coupon codes. I am going to figure out how to take advantage of coupon codes, because I want pretty things, but I don't want to pay the pretty prices!

Cheap Auto Insurance

2010-11-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

I am always interested in a bargain. Sometimes I don't notice them or am too late to take advantage. I know I spend too much money and that is distressing. I need to make more money and save more money. Find ways to not spend so much money and also cut down on my expenses. I am wanting to do that with my phone bill and insurance right now. I don't usually take enough time to look over my bills and research ways to cut them down.

I've had the same car insurance for a long time, and I probably need to research to see if I can lower it. Any reduction would be welcome. I don't live in West Virginia, but some friends of mine do. They were saying the other day they were going to try to find some cheap WV auto insurance. I'll have to find out what they are doing to research that. I need to find some cheap Tennessee auto insurance!

If I can lower my insurance bill, my phone bill, cut back on eating out, and pay down debt, I might actually be doing well in another year or so. I need to save a lot of money to finance all the dreams I have!

Looking For New Furniture

2010-11-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

I am starting to look out for new dining room furniture and maybe even some new bedroom furniture for my guest room. My dining room table was fantastic when I bought it, but now seems a little dated. I would like to get one of those new dark cafe table and chair sets. Very neat!

For the guest bedroom, not sure what to get. Right now, it is kind of mishmash of things. Early career eclectic. It is time to get something new. I have heard of rustic bedroom furniture--might check that out. I just need to go online and look and also visit some furniture stores and see what I like. My niece may come live with me at some point, and I need to think of what she might like. Also, what would be comfortable for guests. I would like to have more guests visit. At least now I have a little disposable income that I can use at some point to buy something. It will be fun to shop. Then at some point, I need a new sofa too. Good times!

Variations On LCD TVs

2010-10-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

It is funny when you see an item in basic black for so long, and suddenly they are coming in different colors. Remember when all wheeled luggage was black, and now they come in every color in the rainbow? Sort of like large screen TVs. They all come in black, and now all of a sudden I have seen a white lcd tv. How cool is that? If I hadn't just bought my black one, I might be interested in such a thing. Next, maybe they will come in red and pink?

Tussle Between Brick And Mortar And Online Companies

2010-09-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

It was bound to happen. Brick and mortar companies losing money to online retailers have to find a way to compete and stay in business. Hard to do when online prices are cheaper.

But when it involves something like eyeglasses or hearing aids--medical devices--does it make a difference? You have to have a PD--pupillary distance measurement--from pupil to pupil to buy glasses. Online retailers can't do that for you, And brick and mortar retailers, tired of losing business to onliners, have stopped providing it. Translation: customers can't buy their glasses online without it.

One could argue that it matters more--because they are medical devices, they must be correct. Hard to do that online. But maybe a way around it is for online retailers to affiliate with local providers. Buy online; get checked locally. Just a thought.

-----------------------------------------------Paid Opinion-----------------------------------------------

Glad I Am Not Studying Anymore

2010-09-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

I am glad I am not study for the bar exam anymore. Boy is that a time suck. But on the other hand, once you
have a law license, you are studying anyway, all the time. So I am really still studying, but not under a time restraint.

But it is interesting to walk in a Starbucks and see people hitting the books. Occasionally I will see someone studying for the bar exam, a medical exam, the GMAT, MCAT, the CAT 2011, or any other number of things.

Studying for the bar exam wasn't all bad. It had a good structure and purpose. I knew exactly what I had to do for the temporary future. But it was sure good to pass. And to not have to take it again!

My Condo Is Slowly Looking Better

2010-09-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

I don't think I have the housekeeping gene. Or maybe I did have it, but not enjoying living in the same house as my mother and father growing up repressed the gene? Anyway, I have to really work at it. I am never at home, and when I am at home, I am usually too tired to do housework. Except in rare circumstances.

But I am trying to change my habits. Like thinking that housekeeping is fun. And making it as important to me as studying for law school and the bar exam. Maybe that will work???? Make it a huge priority?

Anyway, slowly and surely, I am sorting things out, repairing things, and buying new things. Getting my head above water after many years with it in a book. After I get a few more things repaired, I am going to start looking at new Furniture. I think the first thing I would buy is a new dining room table and chairs. I can't wait!

Body Beautiful: Try A New Nail Color

2010-09-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

I only get my nails done, both manicure and pedicure, about once every six weeks. Because of that, I always buy the bottle of nail polish that I pick from the salon, because I know I will have to redo my fingernails. And I don't want to have to run back to the salon for that.

Well, I was dreaming of a lavender or violet shade. I don't know why. It was just in my head. I worried that it might be too wild of a color.

But I got to the salon and saw the perfect bottle of nail color. I had it put on and it is beautiful. Much more than I thought it would be. I recommend trying a new color. Something so small and simple has really made me happy, and that is priceless.

Finding A Restaurant For High School Reunion

2010-09-19T22:22:00.000-07:00

I was on the committee for our high school reunion and was in charge of finding a restaurant for our Friday night casual event. I wanted to find a place near our high school and had a lot of choices. There are a number of nice restaurants in the old hood. I started going from restaurant to restaurant, talking with managers about reserving a space for us and collecting a lot of restaurant business cards.

Unfortunately, they all required a set amount we had to spend. I was OK with that, because if everyone just bought two drinks, we would hit that amount. But others on the committee kind of freaked out about it and didn't want that. They were afraid that if we didn't meet that amount (fat chance) that we on the committee would have to make up the difference.

So what we did instead was announced that we were going to a swanky restaurant in another part of town and didn't tell the restaurant! Yes, that is right. That night, the restaurant was a little upset, saying they didn't know we were coming and did not have enough staff. It turned out that about 100 people showed up for the event, but the restaurant handled it all very well. And they made a lot of extra money, and we didn't have to worry about a contract!

Old Cougars

2010-09-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

There are not only men who aer dating regular cougars, but men who are dating old cougars. I am not a cougar because I am not dating younger men, but I guess I could be. Not sure how old you have to be to be an old cougar, but I guess it is pretty old. I saw the show Strange Sex, and there was a woman in her 70s going out with a man in his 20s. I guess that would qualify for being an old courgar. She looked good for her age, but it did seem kind of silly. I don't think the guy really knew how old she was either. He did seem kind of shocked. She looked like she could be fun but not to date him!

But hey, Harold and Maude worked, so why not???

So Many Online Dating Sites

2010-09-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

It seems like every week I find out about more dating sites. There are the regular ones, and there are the niche ones. I closed out my Match.com for the time being, because I wasn't spending any time on there, and I wasn't getting any good nibbles. I am a member of Plenty of Fish, or POF, for shorthand. I have had some decent responses from that, but again, I am not spending any time on there. I got a bunch of emails at first, but they are trickling down.

But more and more, I am seeing niche online dating sites. Like the ones for just beautiful people! I saw a bunch of new ones the other day. One thing I know for sure, is that I will not meet my match on the
fitness personals. Even when I am in my best shape, it would not be good enough for a guy who signs up for a site like that. Mama Mia!

Getting Active Again

2010-09-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

When I go to the fitness center and see the people on the rock climbing wall, maybe wearing their La Sportiva shoes or other rock climbing paraphernalia, I have to shake my head, That is something I could never do. Don't even have much interest. But seeing people active like that makes me wish for the days when I was more active and did some hardcore hiking. Like up to Mt. LeConte in the Smokys twice. That was my crowning achievement, hiking wise. I am getting in better shape, little by little, but am not sure I could do something strenuous like that no matter how much in shape I am. Now I am concerned about my knees--torn ACL in one knee, and cracked kneecap in the other. Just not sure the knees would hold up in such a hike. So my sights are set on less strenuous forms of exercise.

Dragon Tattoo--A Must Read

2010-09-02T13:40:00.001-07:00

OMG--you have to read this book. It is very good. A little slow at the beginning, but don't let that stop you. I love it primarily because it is about a writer and a magazine, and that was my career for so long. So I can identify. And then it is a who done it, on top of that. Buy it, and get started. You won't be sorry!

Lasik Surgery

2010-09-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

I am blind as a bat and have been so since a child. I would seriously be impaired if I did not have my glasses or contacts. I have thought about lasik surgery before. I think I would be a good candidate, but I have held off. A few friends of mine have gotten it and really like it, but one friend did not have a good outcome. It wasn't terrible, but he is unhappy about it. My other friends really liked it though. They feel freed of not being able to see, or having to wear contacts and glasses all of the time.

I am thinking about it again, because I just got back from vacation. The friend I went with had it done last year, and loves it. She almost has me convinced. It's been a few years since I investigated it, so I am going to start researching the topic again. I am going to look at a lot of lasik sites--maybe this one too. http://www.lajollalasik.com/

I am leaning towards not getting the surgery, but who knows?

Doggie And Kittie Rug Accidents

2010-08-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have a dog and two cats. The cats are pretty good about going to the bathroom in the litter box, and my dog is actually good at holding his pee-pee until we go outside. But once in a while, he is not so good. Like this morning. I am sure it is my fault for not taking him out later last night. But many nights, he is fine and doesn't have an accident on the carpet. But then, this morning he did. I can't tell what makes the difference. He seems to eat and drink about the same every day. I am trying to be a better housekeeper, and one of the things I need to do is get new carpeting anyway. Between the dog and cats, it is worn out. I can't do that until after the first of the year. So until then, I need to make it look and smell as good as possible. I need to look into one of those pet Odor Eliminators. That will be be a good start to a fresher house.

Can't Wait To Read Twilight Series

2010-08-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

I think there is a whole new book market out there: Teen Books for adults. At least I think it may be new. Seems like it started wtih the Harry Potter series. I never read any of those, but I know teens and adults alike were crazy about those.

Now the big deal is the Twilight series. I know several women who have read those books and have been captivated. It is the love story that grabs them, they say. And then of course, there are the movies. I want to read the books first.

I am in the middle of a book right now, and have another one lined up. But I am going to the beach again in October, and maybe I will take Twilight with me. I think that would be a good beach read. I like books that you can't put down, and I hear the books in that series are like that.

When You Are Not Happy In Your Marriage

2010-08-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

I have never been married, so of course I have never been divorced. I both can and can't imagine what it would be like to be in a horrible marriage. I can imagine it, because I have had other horrible relationships in my past. Some I could control and some I couldn't. I have a hard time thinking I would voluntarily put myself in a bad marriage situation or stay in a bad marriage situation, but it happens. I just don't have the fortitude for it. I would like to be married and hope that I am some day. But I am happy being single. I would like to date more, but that is another story! I just have to keep believing htat the right person is out there, and I am worthy of a good relationship and marriage.

But also, if you are married and unhappy for whatever reason, don't stay in it! It does no one any good to stay in a marriage only because you feel sorry for them (one example.) That is not honoring someone. There are many divorce attorneys out there that can help you figure out your situation. If you live in Austin, you can find the name of a Austin Divorce Lawyer; if you live in another jurisdiction, of course you would find an attorney there.

My Friend Is Undergoing Breast Surgery

2010-08-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends from high school has been going through a very rough patch lately. She discovered she had breast cancer. She was not totally surprised, as her mom and older sister had already battled it, and she knew she had the gene for it. Still, it was a shock to her. But she rose to the occasion as quickly as she could. They caught her cancer early, and she didn't even need to have chemo. The doctors wanted her to have radiation, however.

She got freaked out by the thought that the cancer might come back though. And when breast cancer comes back, it is usually not good. Best to get rid of it all at once. Then, there is no worry about the future.

So, she did something extreme and had both breasts removed. Her doctors said she didn't need to do that, but she said it would take away her worries about a recurrence. She has already had that surgery done and is looking ahead to her reconstruction. She is checking out a number of possibilities for this, maybe Breast Implants New York is one of them.

I am so inspired by my friend. She took control of her situation and is looking forward to her life with her kids and husband. I admire her so much.

Think New Furniture Is In My Future

2010-07-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

I inherited my good bedroom suite from my grandmother, and I love it of course. I moved my old furniture into my guest room. It is comfortable, but not attractive like a lot of those bedroom sets out there. I am wanting to start looking for furniture for that room. I need a new bed, a desk and a dresser. Not sure what kind I will get. I might hold off for a little while to see my niece moves in with me. If she does, she might want to help pick out the furniture. I need to get my mind on domestic things like this. Housework, decorating, storage, etc. Turn on the domestic goddess inside of me! That would be a real magic trick to do that, I gurantee you. I would like to be more focused in that area of my life. I think if I were, other good things would follow: financial freedom, love, money travel. That may be wishing for too much, but you know what I mean. When your house is in order, good things will follow. And it would be in better order if I got some furniture that matched!

Next Season on Celebrity Rehag

2010-07-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

I just noticed my typo in my headline, and I was going to fix it, but then thought no. It makes more sense to call Celebrity Rehab Celebrity Rehag. How appropo,

I have watched a season or two of Celebrity Rehab, and I like Dr. Drew, but I have to say the celebrities on that show are the biggest bunch of whiners. I'm not unsympathetic to addicts, and I know it must be hard, but they take entitlement to a whole new level. If they only knew how dumb they look on the show! I am sure they are going through alcohol withdrawal, Suboxone Withdrawal, maybe even heroin or cocain withdrawal. Who knows? I don't pay that much attention to why they are on the show. I don't keep up with their individual details. It is a little bit entertaining to watch. But all I can say is I am glad I am not them, and I am also glad I am not Dr. Drew.

Looking Younger

2010-07-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

I am going to a seminar tonight about anti-aging and am looking forward to it. I used to be very up on what was what in the anti-aging arena, but then I went to law school and didn't keep up anymore. I am sure I will find out new information tonight. Some of the info will be the same, I am sure, such as antioxidants help with anti- aging, but there is bound to be new products and research.

I have a friend who keeps talking about wanting a facelift. She is blond and plays tennis, and I think she got too much sun over the years. Her neck is a little wrinkly. My skin still looks pretty good, but I have been a fiend with using sunscreen. I don't know where she would get her facelift. She lives in a small town in Kentucky, and I doubt she would want to have it there because of the gossip. She has Texas ties, so she might have it there instead. Maybe seek out a plastic surgeon plano doctor or elsewhere. It is a big decision, and she needs to research it and think about it for a while before doing anything.

Need To Be Comfortable At Work

2010-07-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

At my previous job, I had a very comfortable chair--so comfortable that sometimes (shhhh) I would close my office door and take a power nap. What they say about power naps is true--just shut your eyes for 20-30 minutes and let your brain shut off for a little while, and you will be refreshed. Sometimes I would feel so exhausted, in the afternoon, but after a little shuteyem leaning back, I would be like brand new.

In my current job, I don't have a private office. I share a work space with four other people. So no more power naps. But sometimes you still need to relax for a minute. I would love to lean back in a comfy chair to rest and reflect. You can get better ideas that way. My chair now has a low back--not so good for leaning back. I may investigate those Big And Tall Office Chairs that some people have. Maybe I'll get to go shopping for office furniture sometime soon. The other problem is there is a knob on my chair that connects the seat to the chairback, and it keeps coming unscrewed. If I am not careful, I could land on the floor. That would not be good.

Body Beautiful: Add Lemon To Your Water

2010-07-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

I never really liked putting lemon in my water. I never saw the point, and the splash of lemon didn't add enough flavor to make it seem worthwhile, and I couldn't imagine that it would add any nutritional value. I recently read, however, that putting lemon in your ice water can rev up your metabolism by 30 percent. I now love putting lemon in my water!

Jake And Vienna's Breakup

2010-07-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I love the Bachelor and Bachelorette shows. I don't know why--many people hate them, but I really like them. I guess I have had such trouble dating and finding my soulmate that I am intrigued by the mistakes and successes other have in dating.

Right now I am watching the update on Jake and Vienna's breakup. Even though I like Jake better than Vienna, it is not looking good for him right now. Maybe he needs someone to coach him on Sweet things to say to your girlfriend. Too bad--hate that things are so bad between them. She is saying that instead of working as a pilot, he is trying to start an acting career in L.A. And he hardly ever kisses her. And he has hardly talked at all with her parents. That would be difficult if you thought your marriage was going to be one thing and then it was something else. Sounds like she told some intimate details about their relationship to the press. And got paid for it. I missed that issue.

And he was on Dancing With The Stars? I missed that too.

Fourth of July: Let The Fun Begin

2010-07-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

I am a holiday nut--there is no holiday I don't like. Everyday could be a holiday as far as I am concerned. But 4th of July is particularly fun, I think. One reason is it is in the heart of the summer, and usually there is some form of swimming, boating, fishing, skiing, or the like. And the food! Mostly junk food of course: hots and hamburgers. Brownies, etc. It is one day that we can eat junk food without feeling guilty. And the beer! I am mostly a wine drinker, but once in a while like beer, and I really like the different and new kinds of beer. I am amazed when I go to the grocery store and see the vast array of beers: all of the honey wheats, which I love, the Japanese beers, which I love, the old standbys like Rolling Rock, which I love, Pacifico Webtrek, and the list goes on and on. Used to be you had basic beer choices like Miller, Bud, Michelob, either high test or light. Now, there are almost as many beers as wines. I can see why beer tasting has become an event now. Plenty of new versions to try. I have never been to a beer tasting, but I would like to do that at some point. I might be surprised at what all is out there to try.

Repeat After Me: I Am Sexy, I Am Sexy, I Am Sexy

2010-07-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

These words are really directed at me. I am telling myself to do this. I haven't been feeling too sexy for a while. Too much in my head. Too much looking in the mirror. Ouch. But I used to be sexy, and I used to feel sexy. The first step in getting where you want to be is to behave AS IF. So, I am Sexy, I am Sexy, I am Sexy.

Updating My Condo

2010-06-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

I am in the mood to update my condo, and I need to do so to get it ready for the time that I rent it out. That wiol probably be a long time off, but still I need to think ahead. I need to get some new furniture, some snazzy furniture, maybe some eco friendly furniture. That would fit in with my style. But first, I need to do some repairs--replace one of my toilets, get a new dishwasher, add shelving to my laundry room. After I get those things done--hopefully by the end of the year--maybe then I can switch my focus to furniture. I need a new dining table and chairs, a new desk or dresser for my guest room (can't decide which); there is limited room in there. Also need a new sofa, but I guess that can wait for a while. I am going to get the cushions recovered on my chairs in the living room, rather than getting new chairs, so that will save me some money.

But most of all, I need to stay on top of my housework. I am so busy, I let it slide. I should get a housekeeper, but haven't gotten my head around that yet.

Car's Not Working, Waiting On the Tow Truck

2010-06-13T13:58:00.000-07:00

I stuck at Kroger's waiting for the two truck to come. My car died on me in the parking lot, and I am hoping against hope that whatever is wrong is covered under my warranty. Things could be worse though; Kroger now has a nice seating area that has wifi. So it is giving me some time to work on my computer and reflect on my life a little bit.

What has gone on in my dating life lately? Well....not much. Why do I feel like I have a force field around my life when it comes to romance? That no hint of romance can penetrate?

I had dinner last week with an old friend from high school who was in town. I always had the feeling he had a crush on me, particularly in junior high. Well, we had a nice dinner that lasted four hours. So he wasn't in a hurry to get away. But I didn't feel the slightest bit of interest from him. Of course, I am not the skinny cute girl me anymore. And he is even more of a fuddy duddy than he was. I know I am more wild and crazy than him, so it wouldn't work out. But funny how you sort of want sparks anyway, ya know?

The latest guy on plenty of fish to have a bonafide back and forth with me is now history, by my choice. Apparently he rides his bike every Saturday and Sunday morning very early, and then goodness knows what he does with the rest of his days. He wanted me to go for a walk in the woods with him. Ah, no thanks. I said why don't we do coffee instead? He had to do it early in the morning, and he had to leave to go home by 10 a.m. Ah, no thanks, those are my days off and I don't want to get up that early.

Why do guys have to be so wierd?

When I Am Miserable, I Watch Horror Flicks

2010-06-05T17:45:00.000-07:00

The Human CentipedeI really don't mind horror movies and kind of actually like them on occasion. I wrote a paper on horror movies for my psychology class in grad school, and know that people often use scary movies or books for a catharsis. Like something is not going right in your life, so you get your fears out through scary things. Fairy tales do the same for young children. When you watch the movie or read the book, you then feel stronger by thinking about what you would have done in such a case. In effect, you are slaying dragons vicariously, and it helps you slay dragons in real life.

So I don't mind watching things like Open Water, (the first one, not the second one) because whatever bad is happening in my life, at least I am not stuck out in the ocean and about to be eaten by sharks. That makes me feel better about my situation.

When I was studying for the bar exam, I watch the Saw series. The ones that were out by then. Wierd but true. The Saw movies are really graphic and gross, but does have a plot line. The main character is upset that people don't appreciate their lives, so kidnaps his selected victims, and sets up a game, whereby they can save their life if they are willing to go to extreme lengths to do what he asks. Suddenly, the bar exam did not seem so bad.

Today, I was stuck at home with a non working air conditioner, which is bad when you live in the south. And I was stuck at home all day sweating it out. So to make myself feel better, I watched Human Centipede. I had read all kinds of press about how it was the sickest movie of all time, but I can't agree.

Yes, it is disturbing and vile, but kind of in that unbelieveable way. The crazy German doctor is just a caricature. And why would the girls trust him anyway, when they had already been approached, after getting a flat tire in the woods, by a demented and perv German in a mercedes benz? Makes no sense.

This may be a stretch, but I wondered if this film also isn't a comment on ethics and medicine. The renowned German doctor famous for separating siamese twins was as proud of the three people he put together as Frankenstein was of his monster. But just because you can do something medically, should you? The answer is obviously no.

I admit, I did wretch a time or two during the film. But I repeat, it is a dumb flick. So I think that Saw is the winner of the grosses films ever.

My Cute Little Kitties

2010-06-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

I have the best little kitties--Scoot and Shoot--aren't those cute names? I have had some cantankerous cats in my past, these two are just sweet. They are not as cuddly as my cats in the past, but they are better behaved. And sweet. I couldn't ask for better to be honest. And I feel so lucky about that. I am just not sure what to give them to eat. They are over a year old, so I don't think I should give them kitten food anymore. Some of the adult cat food I have given them has made one or the other sick to their stomach. Can't tell which one. I am wanting to find some wholesome cat food that will make them healthy and strong, but not give them belly that too many cats get. You know what I mean? Three of my past four cats had that belly that would sway back and forth when they ran. One didn't. These two don't have it yet, and I want to keep it that way. I'll just have to check out different kinds of food to see what would be best for them going forward.

I Love My New TV!

2010-06-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

I never have much spare money, but I did use my tax refund wisely, and bought some things for my home. Some new wonderful blinds and a 22 inch lcd tv. Just those two things have made the difference. I am lovin' it! Now, if I could just get busy and finish reorganizing everything else, things would be even better! I am slowly getting there. If I didn't have so many fun things to do at night, I would be a better housekeeper. But who wants to give up a social life just to have a tidy home? Not me. But I need to be better. I am better in fact, but I need to be even better. Actually, housekeeping is starting to be fun for me again, and that is a really good sign. Now, off to watch more of the Real Housewives!

Real Housewives of NYC: Which Camp Are You In?

2010-05-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

I hate to admit it, but I love The Real Housewives of NYC. I think it is the best of the Real Housewives shows. The characters seem more real, and more...bitchy. OK, the other housewives are bitchy too, but the NYC ones rule supreme.

The NYC chicks have divided into two camps: the camp of LuAnne, Kelly, and Jill, and the other camp of Alex, Bethenny, Sonja, and Ramona. After watching many, many hours of this show, and seeing the camps really dividing, I have to say I would feel more comfortable with the Alex, Bethenny, Sonja and Ramona group. I could not stand being with LuAnne, Kelly, and Jill. LuAnne, may be Ok, but Kelly has become psychotic, and Jill is so codependent, it is ridiculous Kelly and Jill wake up. You are ridiculous!

I Need Some Really Good, Really Cool Sunglasses

2010-05-14T17:48:00.000-07:00

I don't wear rain coats, and I don't carry umbrellas. I don't like to wear winter coats, and I usually don't wear Sunglasses. Get the picture? I tend not to bother with anything that is a bother.

However, I am rethinking sunglasses. There are a lot of cool pairs out there, and they make you look good. They are also good for your eyes. I didn't realize until recently that you can do damage to your eyes by being out in the sunlight without sunglasses. So I am going to go shopping soon. I think some Raybans are in order. Definitely something leopard to go with all of my animal print clothes. I am going to be at the pool a lot this summer, and probably doing some reading out in the sun, so I definitely need some sunglasses that cut out glare and all the UVA, UVB stuff too.

Here's to looking good and eye health too!

Subliminal Tapes--I Need Your Help!

2010-05-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

About 15 years ago, I was desperately trying to figure out why I can't attact love. I am attractive, smart, kind, funny, but ambitious and independent. Why couldn't I attract love? I surmised it had something to do with the last two traits I mentioned. I don't like to be tied down and kept back, the way I see some other women in their marriages. I don't want to end up with a controlling partner, or contra, a partner who brings you down. I also figured it must have something to do with an invisible aura I have--I must be sending out "stay away" vibes and I can't change it.

So back then, I bought some subliminal tapes, called "Attracting Love." I listened to them a lot, like I was supposed to. One side had a speaking voice, the other just music. It was very calm, quiet music, but something in it made me cry at moments, or at least feel emotional. It was really touching my inner self.

Well, shortly after I met David, whom I thought might be the one. He wasn't, but he showed up like clockwork and was a good candidate. We dated for a while, until I didn't feel I could go any further with it.

So, many years later, I feel stuck again. I see older, less pretty women find boyfriends. Why can't I? Again, it must have to do with the vibes I am sending out. So yesterday, I ordered, "Attract Love" from Brain Sync. There is no voice on either track--just music. Today is my second day to listen to the music. I'll report back and let you know what happens. I am looking forward to some magic!

Online Education Is Good Way To Upgrade Skills

2010-05-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how things have changed in the last decade. When online education first came on board, people were wary. Is this the new correspondence school route, people wondered? No one wants those degrees that you can get out of the back of a comic book.

But now, online education is very respectable, and people are recognizing it as such. I am sure this is a byproduct of the internet and everyone's way of life. We pay bills online, expose your life online, why not get a degree online? Everyone is comfortable with it now. And not to mention that it makes getting a degree so much easier. You can go to class in your PJs, for example.

Some degrees are more amenable to the online format, such as a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Education (Ed.D.),or Master of Public Health (MPH). I just got my J.D. (which is not really amenable to online education. I know some schools are offering it, but it is sstill not really respected.) But I have always wanted an MBA (good choice for online) and the master of public health is very interesting to me. I have always been interested in medicine, and a degree like that would be tremendously valuable now.

Anyway, it is great that online education is here to stay. So many people can better themselves now than in the past, when many would have to travel great distances to go to school.

Bel Canto--A Book You Can't Put Down

2010-05-03T14:22:00.000-07:00

I love books that you can't put down. Ones you read far into the night and wake up with the book over your face, with the pages furled. I can't find enough books like that, and when I do, I savor it like a fine wine.

I heard author Ann Patchett speak once and was captivated by her style. And her subject matter. All of her books are so different, but all spellbinding--at least the ones I have read. I took Bel Canto to the beach and couldn't think about anything else for two days while I raced toward the end of the novel. Set in South America, it is about an opera singer, wealthy people, and some thugs. But it is also about relationships and how people can form the most unlikely alliances, even in a crisis.

An Unexpected Partner?

2010-05-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

What would you do if you found yourself falling in love with a transgendered person, even if you are very straight? There was a very sweet article today on msnbc.com about a straight woman falling in love with a transgendered man. And it didn't matter to her.

I have thought the chances of that happening today is greater as more and more people have transgender surgery. I think it is wonderful for people to follow their heart, but I have to admit that I am not sure I could be so open minded as the author.

http://lifestyle.msn.com/relationships/article.aspx?cp-documentid=23686396&Gt1=32023

So Sad--Two Young Writers Have Recently Died

2010-04-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

I have been very sad about two young writers recently dying--Eva Markvoort of cystic fibrosis, and Alicia Parlette of sarcoma. Both were in their 20s and not shy about writing about their lives and illnesses in their blogs. As a writer myself, I can see the value in this. It would be therapeutic to get it all down, to report on your own life. Plus, it would be a great vehicle to connect with your friends and families. And for Markvoort and Parlette, the circle kept getting larger and larger--both had a following around the world. Whether readers were attracted to the wonderful writing and photographs in the blogs, or because they were part of the respective disease communities, they all became friends of the writers--albeit virtual friends--and felt more alive and inspired because of it.

My Condo Makeover

2010-04-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

I am starting to come out of my law school/bar exam haze and making my life more normal. I know it has been a year since I found out that I passed the bar and that seems like a long time to take to get back to normal. Well, it has been a slow process. Like when all that has been on your mind for five years has been studying, work, and sleep (OK, eating too), rearranging and updating your house is not at the top of your list. But now I am getting my head out of the sand and looking around. Now I have the time to do these things, but not always the money. But I am doing something here and there to spruce up my place.

I have gotten a new flat screen TV, and I am getting new blinds put in. I have cleaned out my closets! I am asking the management company to look at the exterior shutters and maybe get some new ones. I need a new dishwasher, toilet, and new carpeting, but I will have to space those out. Mainly, it is just looking around and throwing out things I don't need, organizing, and filing all those darn papers I have to deal with!

POF Guy #1

2010-04-26T16:17:00.000-07:00

Ok, I met this one guy from Plenty of Fish. We have a friend in common--we knew that before we got together. We both like this friend, but neither of us have seen him in ages. But at least, that gave us a little common ground.

He chose a nice place for us to go. It was a comedy club, and we were going to have dinner there beforehand. He was nicer looking in person, which is a nice change. And we both like comedy, which i sa good start.

But the bad part is he hasn't worked in years--been on disability. That by itself doesn't bother me. But I am so active, so ambitious, that dating someone with severe depression may not work for me. Plus, he is in a totally different religion from me, and that could be problemmatic. And he still has too many ties to his last girlfriend. So, all in all, this is a "next."

Alicia Parlette--One Young Woman's Courageous Battle With Cancer

2010-04-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of Alicia Parlette, you must get to know her. She is only 28 years old and is dying of cancer. That is the very, very sad part. The good part is that she is a wonderful person and has lived her life to the fullest, and is an inspiration to everyone around her. After graduating from college, she got her dream job as a copy editor with the San Francisco Chronicle. She was only 23 when she was diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that has no cure or good treatments. What made the situation even worse was that she had just lost her mother to cancer a few years earlier.

She started reporting in the paper on her battles with cancer, her treatment, and her efforts to live a normal life. Her writing is beautiful and will draw you in. You feel more alive by just reading her story. She has friends around the world, many of whom she has met, but many she hasn't. Her articles have been turned into a book titled. Alicia's Story.

I wish we could all have the rich successful life that she has had in her short 28 years. Keep her in your prayers.

Read This to Become a Germophobe

2010-04-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have never been a germophobe, but I will if I keep reading things like this: http://health.msn.com/health-topics/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100256552>1=31036 This is the second article like this I have read in as many weeks.

I live by myself and am not as tidy as I would like to be. And maybe not as clean. I don't scour the sink, sometimes I wait longer than a week to change the sheets, don't launder a washcloth after every use, reuse my coffee cup at work, etc. But not after reading this article! I am healthy and have a good immune system, so I have never been over-worried about things like this. But now I am going to be more in tune to the info in this article. I guess that is a good thing?????? Just don't want to become like Howie Mandel.

Plenty Of Fish Seems Happenin'

2010-04-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

A relative of mine recently told me she had found someone nice on Plenty of Fish or POF as it is called. I had wanted to try it out for a while, and her success encouraged me to sign up. It is a free dating site, and I like free! I had put it off earlier, because of some negatives I had heard about it, like--you get what you pay for! And all the guys just trolling for sex are on it.

Well, I am not sure about that. But I do know that I have had a lot more responses from POF than I have had from Match.com lately. Match seems like a barren land to me anymore, and it costs $30 a month! I may just cancel my subscription to it for a while, but still keep my profile up. I haven't had any good bites from Match in a long time.

But I have had a string of seemingly nice men contacting me on POF. I have only met two, and they both liked me. (More on this later.) Another one seemed annoyed that I had stopped writing him and didn't call him back soon enough (still haven't met this one and probably won't.)

So at least so far, I like POF. I am not sure why nice men wouldn't be on it. If I like free, I am sure they do too.

Dating Update

2010-04-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

I don't think I will ever do speed dating again. OK, saying never again is a little strong, and I may reneg on this. But I just did my third speed dating event (one a year). This one was no better. I had said in an earlier post that during the prior two events, men seemed to want to get together with me to pick my brains about my career/s. I have had two: editor and lawyer, and both seem to bring out the guy magnets who want to be either/or. And this event was no different. But I am not doing speed dating to network. I am doing it to find someone I want to date. I just don't think my best self comes out during speed dating. Maybe it's not just not my style.

All Dog Lovers Must Read This Book

2010-04-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading The Art of Racing in the Rain a book written from a dog's point of view. I know it sounds hokey, but since I finished reading it, I look at my dog differently. I keep thinking, what is he thinking about me, and how would the narrative about his life read? It is a beautifully written book and is a fast read. I couldn't put it down. And it has made me a lot more sympathetic towards my furry read.

How To Find Inexpensive Nice Looking Glasses

2010-03-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

I am the type of person that has to try on every pair of eyeglasses in the store before I buy a new pair. Sometimes two or three times. Then I fret. Do I really like these frames or not? It is a painful process, because I have never felt like I looked good in glasses. It goes back to grade school you know. All glasses looked awful back then. And then I discovered contact lenses, and my life changed forever. But you can't wear contacts all the time. It's not good for your eyes.

So a few years back, I started looking at glasses that I could actually wear out in the day of light and not feel embarrassed. The frames had become much more attractive, and I found a couple of them that I could tolerate. And then I lost one pair. Uh oh! I really need two pairs, as sometimes I can't find one for a while, but then discover them under a pile of dirty clothes or junk mail. This time I think my second pair is gone for good, however, so I need to bite the bullet and buy another one.

I read an article about Zenni Optical that says you can buy good glasses online for as little as $8!
http://www.examiner.com/x-28795-Brooklyn-Liberal-Examiner~y2009m11d13-Cheap-eyeglasses-are-a-reality-Check-out-Erics-review-of-Zenni-Optical Wow--that would be great, as I have had to take a cut in pay and every little bit helps. Still need to get a prescription, but I need to do that anyway. I can't try the frames on obviously, but maybe I could try a few on in the store, to see what looks good on me and then buy one from this website?? Or maybe I can just get over my hangup about me in glasses and go for it.

More Speed Dating

2010-03-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have signed up for another speed dating event tomorrow night. Will this one be any better? The last two have only resulted in men wanting to pick my brains about my career. I think I just have to go, have a glass of wine and not care. The problem is my skin is not very thick, so when I immediately know there is no spark for them, it kind of bothers me, you know? I will report back.

How Soon Do You Ask A Guy If He Is Married?

2010-01-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

I found this great article online today: http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/personal/01/20/rr.dating.question.or.trust/index.html?hpt=Sbin

It points out how you might want to ask a man if he is married before you get too excited about him. But then it also asks the question, how soon is too soon to ask such a question?

I generally don't like to ask such questions. After all, if a man seems interested in me, is asking me all kinds of questions, wouldn't he be single? Why would he waste his time on me like that if he is not available?

The problem there is that I am superimposing my thinking on him. If I were not available, I wouldn't waste all of that time asking a stranger so many questions. Why bother? I have too many other things to do with my time.

I found out the hard way last year on a cruise. We weren't five minutes out of port, when a man glommed himself onto me. I mean glommed. It was like he couldn't live without me--someone he didn't know five minutes before. "Let's have dinner; let's have drinks. You can check your email on my computer. I can quiz you on that test you are going to have when you get back."

Huh? He was like on overdrive. At dinner, he wanted to know every aspect of my life...every little detail. I just assumed he was single and getting to know me. Wrong. At the end of the evening, when we walked to the elevator, I happened to ask him if he was going to the singles event the next day. "I can't; I'm not single," he replied. "You're not!" I said. I didn't even have to say anymore. He bolted away, and the next day and for the rest of the week on the cruise, he was always on the arm of another woman who wasn't his wife.

Finding Love On The Road

2009-12-11T15:27:00.001-08:00

This is my dream come true. Wish it could happen for me. Sigh.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/12/10/romance.on.the.road/index.html

I Am A Mad Men Fanatic

2009-10-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

As I am watching this week's installment of Mad Men on On Demand, I am again transported. Transported back to the 60s, when work such as advertising was glamorous, women were gaining a foothold in the business world (but not enough) but there was also still discrimination against blacks and women. Jon Hamm is such a hunk. He almost makes all the negatives worthwhile. Like the cheating. But the little vignettes where his wife Betty is role playing. Is she complicit in his cheating? If you don't follow what I am saying, you must catch up on your Mad Men watching.

Beach Vacay Is Success

2009-10-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a week at Destin, thanks to my parents. They let me stay at their condo in Destin. I invited two friends, and we had a blast. Not only did we grow up together, but we have common problems today. So it made for a great bonding week. We ate, we swam, we talked, we watched chick flicks. We will be friends forever. And we will be there for each other forever. And we will go to the beach again. Where I am reborn.

Help For Transferring Files

2009-09-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many times a day we have trouble transferring a file at work. Granted, we have some of the older type computer equipment and such. But it has been hard. Occasionally, one of our clients has even mentioned that they might have to go elsewhere, if transferring files continues to be such a problem. That is never good. We need to be better at this if we want to keep our clients and grow our business. There is some new file tranfer software that makes this task much easier. I am going to suggest that we look into it. It is time that we upgrade and add to our equipment. This is not the time to get behind in something like this. Especially in our business.

Should I Mac or Windows?

2009-09-02T07:48:00.000-07:00

I really love blogging and am planning to do more in the way of blogs and websites. I will need to get a new computer soon and have some major thinking to do. I started off with a Mac. Then our whole workplace switched to Windows. Except for a couple of our designers who kept the Macs. And that is when all the trouble started. You know--the hardship when you go between the two. So now I am used to Windows. But the Macs are so neat. And if I get one but have to work with people who have the other, what am I to do? Especially since I am working on my own now and don't have a whole IT crew at my fingertips like I used to. I may try to find solutions at appletalk problems. There is some software that lets you go back and forth with ease. That is what we should have had all along. Why do computer people make these so hard?

Wanting To Go To The UK

2009-08-18T10:38:00.001-07:00

I have not seen Gerry for a while--he was my long distance English beau for a while--but we have started corresponding again. We had kind of a rough patch and didn't speak to each other for quite some time. I cut off the communication. But one time on a visit to see my sister and her kids, my nephew had on the shirt that Gerry had brought him when he had come to the states. Seeing that shirt made me cry and realize how much I miss Gerry. And that I am sorry we parted on bad terms. I don't know that we will ever date again, but I would like to keep in touch with him. Just for fun, I was looking up Manchester Hotels and found some websites for hotels over there. There is some good competitive pricing.

If I go to Manchester, I'd have to see Gerry of course. But I would also want to go to London, some small towns, and into Scotland. I might even see Ireland if I have time. This trip would be good for me--not only to renew my friendship with Gerry but to get the cobwebs out of my head. I have too many cobwebs in my head from studying for the bar exam, and the only antidote I know of is international travel! That will do the trick. And renewing friendships and maybe making some new ones along the way too will help as well.

Body Beautiful: Drink Your Milk

2009-07-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

Luckily, I am a milk drinker. Even at my age. I don't drink it everyday or even every week. But once in a while I will buy some and just snarf it down. It is amazing how much milk I can drink with dinner. And the good news? It can help prevent heart attack and stroke? That is good news to my ears.

http://www.aolhealth.com/condition-center/heart-disease/news/article/_a/bbdp/drink-milk-live-longer/585708?icid=mainmaindl3link6http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aolhealth.com%2Fcondition-center%2Fheart-disease%2Fnews%2Farticle%2F_a%2Fbbdp%2Fdrink-milk-live-longer%2F585708

Online Dating Dealbreakers

2009-07-21T16:04:00.000-07:00

This article is a hoot. It is a list of online dating dealbreakers.

http://www.thefrisky.com/post/246-automatic-online-dating-dealbreakers/?obref=obinsite

I might add a few of my own: boilerplate email messages; has poor grammar and can't spell; wanting to talk on the phone too soon; spend too much time talking on the phone; acting like they are interested, when they are just so lonely they just want a penpal; do doublespeak; yadda, yadda, yadda.

Ped Egg--Does It Work?

2009-06-15T19:54:00.000-07:00

I have really gotten into getting manis and pedis, but can only afford them once a month, if that. So I have been dying to get a Ped Egg to pamper my feet in between salon visits. On a recent trip to Wal-Mart (yes, I have to admit I occasionally shop at Wal-Mart) I put a Ped Egg in my cart. I couldn't wait to get home to try it.

Long story short--I am not sure it works. Well, it works, but I am not sure it works well. The blades on the egg are a little smaller than I thought. Sort of like a little cheese grater. I have been rubbing it on the bottoms of my feet, and some sand-like substance is coming off. But has it made my feet smoother? Not particularly. I have always had somewhat hard heels, even as a child, so maybe something about my makeup makes the egg work less well. I'll keep trying here and there. But it is not the quick fix I hoped it would be.

Coming Awake After A Long Winter's Nap

2009-06-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, I graduated from law school a year ago, and I found out I passed the bar exam about a month and a half ago. I was sworn in in front of the state's supreme court last week, so I am legal. I am done with studying, at least that kind of studying for a while. Now I am back to my real life. So far that has consisted of cleaning out my closets for the first time in at least 6 years, and taking big garbage sacks of clothes to Goodwill. It also means trying to get my condo back in shape. Do a little freelance work. Blogging more. And getting back in shape. I took my dog Stoopot for a longer walk than usual last night. I need the exercise and so does he, so I want to do this almost every night. I need to get back in shape, both for my health and my dating life. I look so much better with the pounds off.

Hair Color-A Little Dab Will Do Ya

2009-04-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have been lucky that my hair did not start growing gray until recently. My mom and best friend both went totally gray in their 20s. That would be hard, in my opinion. Of course, they started coloring their hair. I felt good that mine stayed dark brown. Only in the last couple of years has mine started getting a little salt and pepper. Unfortunately, it started in the front of my head. With studying for the bar exam, I did not have time to investigate hair color. Even though my hair was pretty salt and pepper, it did make me feel a little dowdy. I talked with my hairdresser, who kept making coloring your hair seem like the Manhattan project. I was getting very frustrated, but I wasn't ready to run to the drugstore and get some bottled color though.

Alas, I have a solution! When I went last for a hair cut, my hairdresser offered a solution. He gave me a mousse like product that you put on after you wash your hair. It is not as permanent as bottled color or coloring from a salon, but he thought it would help transition me into hair color.

I have put it on and I can't believe the difference it makes. I have a new kick in my step, and I am getting looks from guys again. My hair looks beautiful. This mousse is also cheaper than getting coloring in a salon. So far, it seems to last through one shampoo, but after the second shampoo, you probably have to reapply it. But it is so easy, that is not a problem. Vive la difference!

Upgrading My Blogs

2009-04-18T20:55:00.000-07:00

I am looking at the possiblity of upgrading my blogs. That means a number of things--redesigning them, writing more, linking more, getting a new host, new domain, etc. I have put off these decisions because I have been too busy studying for the bar exam. But now that I have passed (!!!) I can spend more time on this hobby of mine. I am just now venturing out--talking and emailing with some people who have expertise, starting to read up on different technology, and looking at some new webhosting possibilities.

To be honest, the thought of switching all of this exhausts me. Which is nothing new. Because of work and law school/bar exam study, everything has been exhausting me. So what is a little more exhaustion????

The main thing, I hear, is that if I make some of these changes to my blogs, it will open up new and more possibilities. I am all about new and more possibilities, for my blogs and otherwise. I have loved my blogging and think I can take it to a new level. So a little time and money investment now could really pay off down the road. I am going to read up on how to maximize my blogs with different hosting services.

My Reality Show Faves

2009-04-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Updates on my fave reality shows:

Rock of Love--Bret is down to two finalists, and I vote for Mindy. She seems pretty cool and is the favorite, I think. Last night he got rid of Jamie, whom everyone said was fun, but that just did not come through over the screen.

Real Housewives--Real Housewives of New York City is my fave reality show right now. Talk about cat fight city! But the people are interesting, and the snark fights seem believable. The Real Housewives of Orange County is good too, but to me not as good as the New York City version. I watched the preview of the Real Housewives of New Jersey, which is going to start in May. It looks like a real snooze. And my first reaction was, "Is the Sopranos starting up again?

Matchmaker Millionaire is good. I love the scenarios and Patti is good. What is with her male assistant's hair though? It detracts from teh show.

Bicycling For Exercise

2009-03-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

An old friend of mine at dinner the other night asked if I would be interested in biking with her. I said yes, definitely. One problem though--neither of us has bikes right now! She said she is going to start watching for sales, and I said I would do likewise. I have some other expenses that will have to come before buying a bike and told her so, but the idea of riding a bike really appeals to me. It would be a good purchase for me. There are some good places to ride near where we live. Riding a bike seems so freeing to me and is such great exercise. I will have to get up to speed about bike info. I know there are some good stores out there where you can buy bicycles and bicycle pedals and parts too. I'll have to do some research.

To Live Longer, Be A Flourisher

2009-03-25T14:35:00.000-07:00

Here is a good article from MSNBC.com today. Signs that you will live longer than you think. It has some good habits that tend to make you live longer such as prefering to walk, eating purple food. I do like burgers, which is not good, and I drink more coffee than tea. Tea is the winner. But I do flourish. And that is a winner.

http://health.msn.com/health-topics/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=100216496&imageindex=1

And while you are at it, check out these superfoods:

http://health.msn.com/nutrition/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=100159956&imageindex=1

Increase Blog Traffic Through Acobay

2009-02-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

I need to increase my flagging blog traffic. It is my fault for not posting more (drat that bar exam study!) and because I haven't been paying attention to blog directories and such. I'll have to look into using a unique networking site.

I Love Subtle Whiffs Of Perfume

2009-02-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

I have never used perfume a whole lot, but in recent years I have come to appreciate the subtle whiffs of good perfume. I don't even own much perfume. Someone gave me a bottle of Abercrombie and Fitch perfume a few years back, and I love it. I wear it on special occasions. I kind of got out of the habit of wearing it everyday at my previous job, where the office B**&%^itch was allergic. I don't even know if she was really allergic to perfume, because she complains about so many things anyway. I felt like it was just one more thing to gripe about to make others miserable. But I didn't feel like I could wear it there. But now I really enjoy wearing it when I dress up and go out. It makes me feel pretty and sexy. I have found a new perfume blog that I am going to read and learn more about other brands.

I Started Exercising! (Again)

2009-02-02T10:09:00.001-08:00

I have now exercised 3 days in a row. I want to hear applause. That is not much, I know, but it is for me, who has been out of shape for a long time due to law school. And studying for the bar. I figured that excercising, even though it takes time out from my day, would actually make me feel better and brighter for the bar exam. This is only my third day--two days on a treadmill and one day on a gazelle--but it is true. I feel better! I don't look better yet, but that will come.

If You Need To Weigh Yourself, You Might As Well Have Cute Scales

2009-02-01T14:46:00.000-08:00

Someday I will have to weigh myself again. I don't know when that day will come, but I have been putting it off as long as possible. To help get the nerve, I might need to get some cute scales. I found some scales that are cute, and they come in a midnight blue color. I also need to get some food scales. I want to start cooking again, and I always have to guess at weights and sometimes I use too much and then overeat. Food scales will also help my weight for when I get on my cute personal scales!

Melissa Gets Kicked Off Rock Of Love For Criticizing Bret

2009-02-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

I am loving this new season of Rock of Love. Maybe it is just the distraction from studying for the bar. I don't know. It is just fun to watch. In the most recent episode, Melissa got kicked off. She is the one who gave Bret ultimatums from the beginning. Well, apparently she has a boyfriend, and some of the other girls heard her complaining to this boyfriend on her cell phone. She was saying that Bret was old and had bad hair. Ack! Her hair wasn't so hot either.

Lap Band Surgeries A Good Alternative to More Invasive Procedures

2009-01-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

I am nowhere near needing weight loss surgery, and hope I never do, but I have several friends who do need it. I have talked with one of them about it, and she wants to have it, but her insurance won't cover it. She is going to save up money to have it done, and then save up more money to have the body lift to get rid of the excess skin. So, obviously she won't be having it for a while.

I also watch the health channel a lot, and they do a lot of shows on obesity and weight loss surgery, etc. I have learned that lap band surgery can sometimes be a better surgical choice, since it is not as invasive as gastric bypass. If you are interested in a lap band procedure, you need to choose a doctor who has a lot of surgical experience and offers a good aftercare program. .

A New Year, A New Me

2009-01-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I just got back from a cruise. I was worried because I wasn't "cruise ready." Meaning I am overweight and out of shape. Not bathing suit ready. Well to tell you the truth--I shouldn't have worried. No one else on the cruise ship was in shape or bathing suit ready either. It took me half a week to get my nerve up to put on my bathing suit and get in the pool. But I did it, and I actually looked better than most people there. That is not to say that I still don't need to get in shape. I do! Luckily I have a free three month gym membership waiting for me. I am hoping to start this weekend. I need to feel those endorphins!

Shoes, shoes, shoes

2009-01-26T06:49:00.000-08:00

I gave a friend at Christmas a little pillow that had inscribed on it: You can never have too many friends or shoes. Very true on both accounts. I really need to update my wardrobe, including shoes. Being in law school for four years and then studying for the bar cuts down on your money and shopping time. Plus, you really don't need all the fancy shoes and clothes when your nose is in a book all of the time. But when I am done studying, I am going to update my wardrobe for sure. Shoes included.

I have been looking at a few shoe websites and love the dani black shoes. I have seen them mentioned in Elle and Marie Claire magazines and others. They are great! The website is easy to navigate, and you can look at all the cool styles. I mostly wear flats, and they have some really cute styles. I need to branch out more and wear more heels. They have those too! The owners of daniblack have a lot of history with the shoe business. The husband and wife team are also connected to Schwartz and Benjamin, a longtime New York shoe manufacturer, so they know shoes. And they know what we want to wear!

Hope My Relative Is OK

2009-01-26T06:33:00.000-08:00

I hate to get bad news. I just got home from vacation and found out that a favorite relative of mine may have a problem. She had been feeling dizzy (unbeknownst to me) and had gone to the doctor. They did a cat scan and found a mass. They don't know what it is yet. She just found out about it last week, and another relative told me last night. She is someone I lean on, rely on, love a lot. I don't know what I would do without her. I pray that she is OK and that it is nothing. At least nothing bad.

Getting Your Paint On

2009-01-25T21:10:00.000-08:00

Have you ever just wanted to splat someone with paint? I have, and I could do it now. Get my paint on. Get my paint all over you. There are a variety of paint gun packages out there. Check out jt paintball. Paintball sounds better than exercising to take care of some of that adrenaline!

Back Home Again

2009-01-25T21:06:00.000-08:00

I have just returned from a much needed vacation. A much needed vacation. I was on a cruise and loved it. My lungs have been screaming out for sea air for some time now, and I got a lungful last week. It was lovely. Even sailed to another country. I could have been on the ship for a few more days actually. I was really sad to get off the ship. But I have to say coming home and getting welcomed by my three furry friends tonight was awesome. I love them. And I am glad to come home to my doggy and kitties. kissy kissy.

Rating Excercise Programs: Which Ones Are Best?

2009-01-07T15:11:00.000-08:00

Well the answer to my question in my last post is no. No I cannot make my legs look better in 20 days, because I have only exercised once. ONCE! And I am going on a cruise and will be embarassed to be seen in a bathing suit. Well, I won't let that stop me. I love the water and sun too much to stay away from it. But I am not going to make a point of parading myself around. Nosiree! I am mad at myself about this--but to be honest, I haven't had time to exercise with everything else going on in my life. I know that is everyone's excuse, but it is kind of true in my case. I probably won't have time to exercise until March, but then watch out! I will be an excercising fool.

Meanwhile, I need to figure out what would be the best exercise program for me. Looking at the site Exercises Training Programs I see a lot of different ones listed. I'll make my way down the list and see what they say about them. What appeals to me right off the bat is the Ultimate Leg, Hip, Thigh, Tummy and Butt makeover. But maybe I should stick to the Busy Woman Fitness E-book Workout Program, with my life craziness and all. The Anti-Aging Fitness Program also sounds important. They all sound good. But nothing is more important than just doing something. Which I will--in March!

Can I Get My Legs Looking Better in 20 Days?

2008-12-28T18:39:00.000-08:00

I was trying on bathing suits for my upcoming cruise, and I had the everywoman's meltdown in the dressing room. Of course my stomach looked bad, but it was only surpassed by how bad my legs looked. So fat and unattractive. Ig. My plans to get in shape before my cruise didn't pan out. But I have 20 days. Maybe I can't make my legs look perfect, but maybe I can tighten them up a little. My legs in the past have tightened up pretty quickly. It can't hurt to try. I jumped on my trampoline for 25 minutes today, and I felt good the rest of the day. A good start.

When Will I Be Free of Debt?

2008-12-19T16:19:00.000-08:00

Just when I think things are going better with my money, I realize they aren't. Not really. Not much better at any rate. I am out of school and not paying monthly tuition anymore. So I should have a lot of discretionary money and be able to pay off my bills faster. But it just doesn't seem to be happening. And I am not really sure why. All I know is I can't keep doing this. I need to pay off my bills and then save money, etc. I should have done this years ago. It is sad to think how much money I have wasted. I am a little better--at least I am not adding to my debt. But I am not paying it off as fast as I should either.

I would never declare bankruptcy. I just have too much pride for that, and it is not right either. It dogs you forever. I did see a site for debt settlement though that I may investigate.

Debt problems can be so embarrassing, and it can even interfere with your employment and love life. The love life is what I have been worried about. Who wants to marry someone with a poor credit score? Just think of that commercial that has been running about the guy married to the girl with the poor credit score. Anyway, I need to clean my debt up. I am headed in the right direction--I just need to give it some more gas!

IRL Dating Nightmare

2008-12-19T16:15:00.000-08:00

I had the world's worst date a week ago. And no it wasn't with an online match. It was with an In Real Life guy that I have known for years. Yes, that is right. That I have known for years. It was so bad in fact, that I am almost ready to hang it up with relationships. And I have never said that before. (I don't really mean this--just venting.) All I know is that I came home from the date and was pretty much immobilzed with depression all night. Just laid on the sofa and could only watch TV. I wasted a whole night because of that jerk. But I felt like I had been beaten up. Just literally of course. But I was astounded at my reaction. I really felt like I had been beaten up. And all I could do is lay on the sofa and not move. By Sunday, I was OK.

I will reveal more of this story later. But the kicker is I have to see this ass again tonight. We are going to the same party, separately of course. I could stay home, but I can't resist the opportunity to let him know how displeased I am. Can I pull it off? I hope so.

Waiting On Car Parts Is No Fun

2008-12-16T11:30:00.000-08:00

Back when I had my car wreck a couple of years ago--OK, before I go any further, I will admit that the wreck was my fault. I was lost in law school study fog and didn't see the stopped car in front of me. Well, it was a Saturday, and I had been studying all day. For a thrilling law school subject. Not. Well, anyway, I was driving to meet some friends after a whole day at the grindstone and lost in law school study fog. Then whap! Right into the back of the beat up jalopy in front of me. Of course, his car wasn't hurt at all. Which was actually good for me. I shouldn't complain about that. But my little volkswagen was entirely beaten up. I had to cry. I was not looking out for my wheetle beetle, and I banged her up quite a bit.

The police came and said it was my fault. Of course it was. But I couldn't even drive my car home, and that upset me so much. I was afraid it would be totalled and that would have been a financial nightmare for me. Luckily it could be fixed. But it took so long to get the volkswagen parts. I kept calling the body shop and asking when it would be ready. They said they had to get the parts from Germany. I said, what?? Why??? There are VWs all over the place, and surely you don't have to get parts from Germany?? But apparently they did. One month dragged into two months, and my rental car allowance from the insurance company wouldn't pay for the second month. Luckily, I could borrow a family car for the second month or I would have been up the creek in terms of getting to work. So not being able to get car parts in a timely fashion can have serious consequences. The body shop should have checked out some online parts places. I have looked online, and there are places that had the parts I needed!

Having A Party In A Small Space

2008-12-13T22:13:00.000-08:00

I live in a small apartment and also like to entertain, which poses a challenge--I never have enough places for people to sit. Luckily, most people like to stand at a party. This article gave some suggestions on how to entertain in a small space. I will be having a Christmas party, so it caught my attention. One of their best suggestions is to have an open house and stagger the times on your invitations. That makes a lot of sense!

http://lifestyle.msn.com/homesweethome#/entertaining/article/15438762/

Paradise By The Dashboard Light

2008-12-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

Who loves the song "Paradise by the Dashboard Light?" Waves hand. It is musical genius and sung by the terrific Meatloaf. You have to be of a certain age to know and love this song. A wonderful age. When I was in college, this song was one of the rock songs that was played non stop at parties and on road trips. It was great fun.

Not only is it wonderful music, with wonderful voices, but it tells a story. A story that every young person can relate to. The genius of the song is that it compares a sexual encounter with a baseball game, switching back and forth. The people in the song come to their senses....and well the rest is history.

As I mentioned in my comment on this site acobay, I loved the original song, but not the sequel. The sequel implies that the couple in the original song got married......and that it was not good. I wish they had stopped at the first song and let us use our imaginations as to what happened. And to hope that it worked out better than the last line of the original song implied: to the end of time. If you don't know what this means, you just have to listen to the first song. I promise you won't be disappointed.

The acobay site is pretty cool--you can connect with others who like or own certain things. Visit it and maybe you would want to leave your own comment about "Paradise By The Dashboard Light."

http://acobay.com/topic/8502

Body Beautiful: Live To 100

2008-12-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

Ponce de Leon might have had it right: There is a fountain of youth. And it may be no farther than your nearest bottle of red wine. :)
Drinking red wine is more fun than a restricted calorie diet. However, there may be a pill for this soon. Check in out in the article below.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/172561/page/1

Two Parties Tonight

2008-12-11T14:05:00.000-08:00

How come so many activities take place in one night? I am going to two parties tonight, but I could have gone to four. Well, actually three plus a speed dating event. But I am so over speed dating. I am not sure I ever want to do that again.

I am a member of a civic club, and we are having our holiday party tonight at a country club. Fancy schmancy. I am looking forward to it. It will be good food in a pretty environment. It is really raining outside, so it will be a nice comfort place to be.

The second party is a hopping party--the "go to" party of the season. I am happy I was invited. More than 800 people are invited, and only about half will come, but that is a ton of people! The problem is by the time I get there, a lot of people I know will have already left. Oh well, the price of a social life.

More later when I tell you about a sitch with an IRL guy.

Making Choices That Make Us Happy

2008-12-10T08:35:00.000-08:00

Good quote from this article I found online today:

"If there were choices you could make that would make life better, wouldn’t you make them? It sure seems so, but that’s not what most people do. And that really sucks because choosing is what allows you to live the life you want to live, not only in the big decisions, but in every moment of every day."

I agree wholeheartedly with that and try very hard to make good decisions in my life, because I don't like regrets. But the above quote fits in with my theory that many people do not make good marriage decisions. They end up marrying someone because they are just there at the right time, etc. No effort to find the right person. And then so many years of heartache. But of course you could apply the above quote to any aspect of your life. Good article about living the life you want.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/28114004/?GT1=43001

Christmas Presents To Myself

2008-12-10T08:11:00.000-08:00

I am not a financial genius and have the debt and credit score to show it. But I have been good lately about not spending a lot of money and not adding to my debt. I did have to get myself a Christmas present last night. I had seen a Kmart ad for 1/8 carat diamond earrings on sale. Normally priced at $99, they were on sale for $29.99. I couldn't resist. Granted, they are very tiny diamonds. But pretty nonetheless. I need some diamond earrings, even if they are little. I also bought myself a set of Joe Boxer pajamas. I don't know what it is--studying for the bar or what have you--but I really feel like hibernating these days in my pajamas. But now when I wear my PJs, I can also wear my pretty little diamond earrings!

Body Beautiful--Tweeze Your Brows

2008-12-02T15:27:00.000-08:00

I went to a fancy smancy charity ball this past weekend. I didn't have to buy any clothes, and I didn't have to pay to attend the event either, so my total cost to attend was $4. A $2 tip for the valet parking and a $2 tip for the coat check. Can't beat that! And it was lovely. Before I went, I thought I better tweeze my brows. That is something I let go sometimes. I forget to do it, and then I never find time to do it. But for an event like this, you have to tweeze your brows. My goodness how much better I looked! I had almost forgotten. Law school has really gotten in the way of my beauty routine. I will make an effort to do this for sure from now on.

I Haven't Signed Into Match.Com For Weeks

2008-12-01T14:50:00.000-08:00

I really haven't even looked at the site. I have gotten a few emails here and there saying that someone has emailed me or thus and such. Something tells me I haven't missed much. Not that I don't want to get back to online dating. It is just that I tried to still date while I was studying for the bar last summer, and I became too distracted with that and other things and did not pass. So I can't do that again. At least this time, I am not even tempted to renew my membership right now. It can wait until after Feb.and then I might even join some other sites.

The Fascination With Mickey Rourke

2008-11-22T11:23:00.001-08:00

I remember years ago when a co-worker and I talked about how sexy Mickey Rourke was. Sexy in almost a creepy way. If you don't know what I mean, watch Six and a Half Weeks. Yowzer.

But now, it seems like Rourke would be anything but sexy. I never understood why he left his acting career to become a boxer. Wierd! But I have heard that he was too difficult to work with as an actor. Then, I guess his face was beaten up with boxing, in addition to aging. Apparently he had some bad plastic surgery, which he denies. But whatever, he just looks bad. But it is hard to turn away--like it is hard not to look at a car wreck. But there is still something very compelling about Mickey Rourke. I just can't name what it is.

http://movies.msn.com/movies/galleryfeature/sunken-dreamboats/?GT1=28112

Body Beautiful: Keep Your Figure and Style

2008-11-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

I read an article online the other day that talked about the two things men care most about their dates: As you get older, keep your figure and style. The article said that men care more about this than weight or wrinkles. I can see that, but I have trouble thinking that men don't care about all of it. But I have read in various places that men like thin women, and that is more important to be thin than pretty. Again, I feel that men want it all. I have an advantage in that men do think I am attractive. I just don't always keep in shape like I should. But I am working on that now.

Hydroderm Finally Comes Through!

2008-11-13T14:50:00.000-08:00

About six months ago, I feel victim to one of those emails that offered me a free trial of Hydroderm. I had heard about it, and I am always looking for good skincare products, so I clicked on the email. Just as I was about to click off, an online chat window popped up with a live attendant.

Don't you want this product, she asked? Yes, I did, I said, but you have to answer some questions first. Like, are you going to charge me anything during the free trial? Do I get to keep the product even if I cancel?

We went a couple of rounds, and she didn't answer the questions. Finally, she typed abruptly: People really like this product. I succumbed and signed up for the free trial. I got my package about a week later and started using it. It actually is a really great product. I could see the difference in my skin. Even some people at law school told me my skin was really looking good, and they didn't know I was using the product.

All went well--I was shelling out my $69.99 every two months, and then suddenly the product stopped coming. At least they weren't charging me for it. I kept calling the 800 number and had to wait each time more than 30 minutes to talk with a representative. They said their system was down. This went on for weeks! I finally called last week and told them to cancel my subscription. Even though I loved the product, I wanted out of their database, so I could try to find it elsewhere. They said OK.

Well, low and behold, I got home yesterday, and there was the package outside my door. So my skin will still be beautiful. I am happy now.