Time Flies.......

Another crazy busy week. We hired a new associate. Well, kinda. She has not yet passed the bar exam (just took it for the first time in july), but once she does, she will be an associate with us. For now, she is a law clerk in training to be an attorney at the office. She starts on Sept 9, and her name is Holly. She went to U of Detroit Mercy, and she was an intern for one of our fav judges! :). Glad to be done with that selection process. Called her on Wednesday, and sent letters out to the others to let them know, which I always hate doing. Jessica's last day is Tuesday, which is kinda crazy! She is the first person ever to quit working for us. But, I totally understand why since it's to live with her man. People are more important than jobs, for sure. :).

Had dinner last night with my Grama, two Aunts and Dad, in Westland. We ate at Max and Erma's, then stopped at Value City Furniture to show Grama a dining set. She haas been wanting one. She may be the most indecisive person I know, thank GOD I did not get the indecisive gene. While there, I saw this really kewl wood decorative piece I wanted to buy for the office, so I did. Then grama decided she wanted to buy it for my bday (she had not bought me anything for my bday last May), so she wrote me a check for it. Also, got some kewl bday gifts from my Aunt, one is this kewl scales of justice lady in silver and copper for my office, a pretty glass and cobalt blue bowl, a new necklace, some kitchen stuff in cobalt and a pug ornament. Weird getting bday gifts in May, haha.

We worked all day today. Got so much done, it was kinda crazy. I have a TON of filing to do tomorrow. Prob more than I have ever done in one trip. Will do it between hearings tomorrow.

The Suite across the hall construction started this weekend. The walls are all up, drywall was being done when we left tonight. The place is a mess though, LOL, cannot wait for it all to be done. Hopefully the tenant over there does not throw a fit about the mess if he is in tomorrow although none of the mess is in his office.

Had dinner on Friday night with two of Kurt's friends from high school and their husbands. We ate at Mongilian BBQ in Ann Arbor, then had drinks afterwards at Ann Arbor Brewing Company. It was fun, and I learned all about Kurt's forced marriage in 5th grade to a girl named Tammy on the playground, haha. What a pain Ann Arbor is on Friday night though! Finding parking and everything took forever! Ugh. I am so spoiled by Monroe County where I live. No waits anywhere ever. Gotta love rural farm towns in MI! :).

Still researching December travel, and am still leaning towards India, but I keep looking up other places as well. Have been looking at other countries in Africa. Basically, anywhere I can get a good flight deal to will win, most likely. Which is hard in mid-December.

Still loving all these designer discount sites. Bought my stepDad an awesome gift I cannot disclose for his bday. Whoot. And I bought it EARLY which is rare for me with how busy I am.

Anyway, hope everyone had a really nice weekend. Only four more work days until we leave for Colombia! Cannot wait for a few days off and to use my camera!

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Crazy Busy

Oh, the things I have done since last blogging on August 9...Or really, what things I have NOT done. My life is pure insanity.

Found out on Monday that Jessica is leaving the firm to move to Chicago and live with her boyfriend. Thus, I need to hire a new associate, which is always a draining process with the reviewing resumes, interviewing, then training. Jessica has now been with us for 1 year, 7 months, so all the experience she has gotten will now need to be taught to someone new. And, she is the one that does primarily what I do, so I will be running for a while covering two jobs really! :). We listed the job in a few different places (free), and have gotten a ton of resumes. Interviewed Friday afternoon and Saturday afternoon, and have some more set for this week. Hopefully, we can make a decision by next weekend or sooner. We have not had a *bad* interview yet, and have had several who would fit in well, so that's promising.

Also hired a new assistant. Kory is going down to part-time with law school and Megan has class two mornings a week, so we need someone to cover their hours. Hired a friend of Megan's, named Alana, who just graduated with an associates in paralegal studies. She has only worked two part days so far, but she seems super positive and drama free, which are the two things I am looking for in employees now. I think she likes it so far too, which is great. Kurt let her sit in on a deposition on her first day.

We decided we are renting the Suite across the hall from ours. Since I finished the main part of my Mediation training, if I start taking Mediations soon, we really don't have room or the right set up in our current Suite, since all offices are occupied by attorneys and staff. So, the Suite across the hall is being redone to meet our needs. We are having a wall built and some doors put in. But, basically, it is going to be a kitchen area (frig, storage, TV, microwave, coffee pot, couch, table and chairs), waiting area (with couch and love seat), conference room (with table and chairs), office (desk and chairs) and storage areas for our supplies and closed filing cabinets. Everything has been delivered now with the exception of the waiting room furniture, which had to be returned since it would not fit thru the front door of the office. We went and picked out smaller stuff and it comes next week. Can't wait until it's done over there. It is already looking fab and it is really quiet and relaxing over there, which I love.

Went to a training this week which was the last in class thing I have to do for my Mediation stuff, which this was for Domestic Violence Protocol in Mediation. It was all day in Lansing, so I spent the night there on Wednesday night. Class was really good and I learned a lot of helpful things. Stopped on my way there at the outlet mall in Howell and bought some new jeans at the Gap, as well as some green carpenter pants for Kurt.

Also, a lot of work is finally getting done at our house as well. The drywall has been up for ages in the basement, but Kurt finally hired someone to mud, tape and paint the walls. Also, we got the roof tiles fixed where they were coming off and the ceiling fixed in my gym. Kurt's brother, Scott, is coming up soon to finish the tile in our bathrooms in the basement, which are about half done by Kurt, and, he is going to put in a tile floor in our basement, which is a HUGE project. cannot wait until all of that is done.

Have continued to research India for our December trip, and I really think that is where I am leaning at going to. It would kinda be like the Uganda safari, but different animals and scenery. About half the flight cost that it is to Malaysia, which is another place I really was looking into.

Anyway, gotta run, just wanted to post while I was thinking about it. I will prob do a secret blog about some other stuff, but will post here if I do so ya'll know! Happy Weekend!

So Little Time.........

I have so many little things that need to be done, and seem to have so little time to get it all done! Ugh.

We literally need work done on ALL our cars.

Just took the Saab in. Can't recall if I posted about this or not, but when Rebecca and I drove to Manistee a few weekends back, two deer jumped in front of my car, my car that was going 75 MPH. Yep, I did not even have time to swerve. Hit one and did some damage to the front of the car, but was thankful that Rebecca and I were OK and the car was driveable. It was pretty incredible there was not more damage, really. I was pretty sad about it though, I felt horrible that I killed an innocent creature. So, Saab is being fixed. Should be done by the end of the week and most of it covered by insurance (except part of the deductible, the shop covered some of that too).

Kurt's Porsche's top will not go back up, it is stuck down. Which is OK if it never rains, LOL. We are going to try and take that in tomorrow morning to the guy we use in Monroe. Jeep's AC is not working. And the poor Saturn is on it's last legs. Kurt thinks the transmission is going, and if he is correct, we will prob donate it to charity or trade it in for something new if I can get anything for it. Have had that car for almost 10 years, how crazy is that. I will be kinda sad to see it go though, it was a GREAT reliable car. And, my Grampa helped me with it getting me the GM discount and the loan since I had no established credit at that time. My Grampa has since passed away, so it reminds me of him. :(. I think I may need to replace it with another GM to honor him! :).

I am getting a much needed pedicure tomorrow night. Yay.

We are hiring people to finish up some projects in the house, which thrills me. kurt loves working on the house and is great at it, but he just does not have the time to finish stuff. Our house is huge, so each project takes 10 times longer than it would have at our old house. He hired my friend Hollie's husband (who has his own contracting business) to finish the drywall and paint the basement, as well as fix some tiles on the roof that have fallen, and fix the drop ceiling in my gym. Someone is coming tomorrow night to look at the tile work that Kurt started in the two bathrooms in the basement. He got about half way on both and did not finish because of time. So, that will be nice to have that done.

I need to make the pugs a vet appointment, all three are due for some shots. Bad Mom.

OK, all this talk about things I need to do is exhausting me.........Off to do some laundry.

You are an Animated Director

Took this really interesting quiz on a site, click here to take it, below are my results. Also, they have a fun feature where we can assess each other! Click here to assess me, then leave me yours on your blog on in my comments and I will assess you. Super fun to see if others assess us the same way we see ourselves.

You are a Director

As a DIRECTOR, you combine an unusual openness and passion for beauty and style with confidence and a down-to-earth sensibility that allow you to realize your vision.

You are practical and pay attention to the details that others tend to miss.

By focusing on what is real and concrete, you achieve more than those who always have their heads in the clouds.

When it comes to what really matters in your life, you are confident in your ability to succeed.

Having beautiful things in your life gives you pleasure and satisfaction - you have a keen eye for style.

Even when problems present themselves, deep down you know you will overcome these challenges.

When routines get too familiar, you become bored and start looking for ways to spice things up.

You are open to new types of experiences – you are not afraid to take a risk on something new.

You have a highly developed sense of taste – you know what looks good on you, in your home, and in the world at large.

Your independent streak allows you to make decisions efficiently and to trust your instincts

The control you feel over your life is empowering to you-- you believe in your abilities and acknowledge your shortcomings. Explanations of the world that focus on destiny or fate don't really interest you. You take responsibility for what goes wrong in your life, and also for what goes well.

If you want to be different:

Occasionally let yourself dream a little more, even if it doesn't seem practical or efficient.

You are Animated

You are outgoing, comfortable with others, and up for anything, which makes you ANIMATED.

Some people find crowds and parties exhausting, but not you! You are able to be yourself in many situations.

Sometimes it is hard for you to understand why others feel the way they do, but that doesn't stop you from trusting them or having faith that they are good people.

You know the world is complicated and that there is often more than one side to a story, so you are careful not to make judgments about others too hastily.

You would rather experience the world than sit back and observe it—you are not one to sit on the sidelines.

You are an independent thinker and don't get too worried about how others might perceive you—you are not self-conscious about being the active, engaged person that you are.

Although you have a keen understanding of different people's life circumstances, you occasionally have trouble seeing why people get so upset and emotional about things—they should just lighten up and have fun!

In addition to having faith in the world, you have faith in the people around you—you trust others to do the right thing and to be honest.

If you want to be different:

Remember that time alone can be just as fulfilling as time spent with others—take some time for yourself and you might find that there are many things in your inner world that are just as compelling as the world outside your window.

Your open-mindedness about the ways of world gives you an understanding of people's differences, but that knowledge doesn't always translate into sympathy. Don't be afraid to let your trust and understanding influence your feelings.

Where to Start, Where to Start.....

Oh, my blogging is just horrendous these days. There are so not enough hours in the day to accomplish everything I need to do. It feels like I am running around endlessly these days. So, when I am feeling that way, what do I do?

Book a flight to someplace far, far away! That's right, folks, the Haskell Labor Day trip is starting to be planned! Kurt has been bugging me for at least a month to make a decision, and like a ton of places have been looked up and put on the list, such as Bermuda (shot down as it looks like the only stuff to do these is snorkel, boat, etc. and since Kurt is not a huge water person, it would be much more fun for me....hey, that might be OK? haha), Costa Rica (Tortugero area to see the nesting sea turtles and it's an area we have not been to yet), Glacier National Park in Montana (I have always wanted to go here, but it looks slightly chilly in September), Alaska (like flying to one town and exploring, but the flight is kinda long for a short trip), Panama (just to explore again since we loved it there), Honduras (not the islands, but the area where there is jungle), and Colombia. Narrowed it down to Honduras and Colombia. Looked up flights, and VOILA, the price I found on a flight to Colombia made the decision easy for me....$242.50 roundtrip (which includes taxes and everything). That is SO insanely cheap. Cheaper than flying to most US prices. Whoot. We will be flying to Bogata, but I have no set plans yet. It looks like there is enough just in Bogata to keep us busy for the 5 nights we will be there, but I will have to research more. Speaking of research, I am so freaking behind on the December trip. It is normally booked likes months before now. Ugh. Cannot wait for Colombia though. Have to buy a ton of coffee though, I have already had three requests!

This weekend was busy. Shocker there. Friday night, had dinner out for fish tacos with Kurty. It's pretty funny when we are seated at the restaurant and the hostess tells our server "the people who get the fish tacos just got seated in your section". Saturday, we did a ton.......worked part of the morning, went and bought two travel books, had lunch, went back to the office to work some more, went to Art Van and finally found furniture for the living room, AND it was in the clearance center, which thrills me. We really wanted to get something that was easier to clean, since the dogs are allowed on the couches in the Haskell household and keeping it clean is near impossible with fabric. Also, we do not want to buy leather, so we have limited selections. The stuff we ended up buying looks like leather, but is not. So, we killed zero animals, and have furniture that is easier to keep clean keeping in mind the animals in my house! :). AND, they delivered it today, one day later, on the weekend. Score. The guys were super nice, took our old stuff out to the curb (for extra $$ of course, LOL). Also cleaned this weekend, and had dinner with Larry, Val and Dan, and Val brought Lucky to play with the pugs. They all love one another.

Anyway, off to bed. Will post more soon, I promise, and pinky swear! :).

Catch Up

I really need to play catch up here, hun? I have been so beyond busy the past couple weeks. It's crazy.

This past week, I took a 40-hour mediation training seminar in Ann Arbor. The seminar was really great. Not only did I learn what I need to in order to do conduct mediations and add that into my office, I learned a lot that will help me work with people in my normal cases and read actions and reactions of others, and I think it even changed me a little bit as a person. The instructor has been doing mediations for over 20 years, and was really laid back and super intelligent. She is internationally known for doing these courses and mediations. Anyway, to all my attorney friends, I highly recommend the training. I still have to take a domestic violence 4 hour course in Lansing, observe two mediations and be observed in one, but then I can be added to the court lists for referrals. Technically though, I can do mediations now (just cant be added to the court list yet). I take the domestic violence course on 8-19, and have some ideas on who I want to observe and contact about that part. Soo happy to be done though, I was working at night after the class several nights this week as well and was insanely exhausted all week. Met a lot of really great people at the mediation as well, which was kewl.

We ordered a new treadmill, since ours died. It was delivered last night, just need to set it up and I can start running again. Whoot! Hopefully I like it, cuz sending it back would be a pain in the butt.

Last weekend, took a trip to Manistee to visit my Mom, and Rebecca came with me. I love going to Manistee, because being in a small beach town just kinda forces you to relax and do a lot of nothing. Which we did. Yay. Did some shopping in downtown Manistee, drove to the beach, had awesome ice cream at my fav place, saw two of my friends, Shannon (and her newly born baby Samantha) and Heidi (with 2 year old Lanessa). Also got to see my Mom's band play at the Relay for Life, and they were AWESOME. i cant believe how good my Mom has gotten at the drums in such a short time. the band is great. I bought an incredible candle while I was there, that is burning in our living room right now. Also bought this yummy looking sauce for cooking with called Rub with Love Spicy Red Chili Teryaki Sauce. Also, my Mom gave me two more cups and saucers for my collection, and they are both super unique. Added them to my china cabinet........

Bought Kurt this ring on Idelli.com for an amazing deal. that site takes forever to mail stuff out, but finally got it on Thursday in the mail! It fits him perfect and looks awesome on. Love it.

Had to work today and will part of tomorrow. Ugh. But, hopefully, we can start the week kinda caught up. Hope everyone else had a nice weekend.

Mediation Training

So, I signed up today to take a 40 hour mediation course next week and will be out of the office the entire week, which is really weird! Normally, if I am out, I am on vacation and not working elsewhere. The training is in Ann Arbor, every day, from 830-530. One of my friends is taking it as well, so I will know at least one person there. I am actually kinda excited, even though I swore I was never going back to school! I don't really count this as school though since it's at a hotel, haha, and I am doing it to add on an element to my business. I have always really wanted to take this course, and have never really had time until now. I still don't really have time, but we are making it work. I think Mediation is something I would be really good at, since my main goal in my general practice is to help people settle their cases. I can argue really well if the need is there, but I think in family law, it's best to settle cases since we are dealing with people's families, and they need to get along in the long run for the kids.

Wow, lawyers do have morals sometimes! :).

Went and had a massage after work, since I had a headache this weekend and could tell my body was telling me to go in. Hopefully it does the trick.

Got a long day tomorrow (early court and late appointments), so off to bed for me! Happy Monday!

Family Reunion

July 10, Kurt and I headed to Gladwin, MI, for a family reunion that my Mom put together with other family members. She was hoping everyone could be there, but there were some missing people. We had a really good time though. Tons of yard games, good food, saw some family members I have not seen in forever! Click here to see pics.

After the reunion and on the way home, we stopped in Pinconning and had dinner with Kurt's Mom, who we have not seen in forever either! It's been so long, she gave us our Christmas gifts. Crazy. Kurt fixed some faucets in her house, and we were on our way home to Pinconning. It was a long day, but a really good time and nice to see everyone

Random post, but I wanted to post about this before I forgot since I am so behind in posting! :).

Busy, Busy

Had a busy week this week, and a pretty busy weekend as well!

Friday night, Kurt and I had dinner at Nick and Nino's, which was nice, as i was totally craving fish tacos. Relaxed the rest of the night.

Saturday, my Dad came over, and we all headed to the Tigers game in Cleveland at Jacobs Field (otherwise known as Progressive Field). It was HOT out. Over 90 degrees for the duration of the game, and our seats were in the sun (second row). I kept reapplying sunscreen and somehow managed to not get a sunburn, whoot. There was like nobody at the game, so my Dad and I moved back and forth between shade and our normal seats. Of course, after being in the sun from like 930 AM until 600 PM took it's toll on me and I ended up with a headache, but I too Excedrin and it was not overly horrible. I was zonked by the time we went to bed that night though. Click here to see pics.

Funny off note, we were driving on the toll road in Ohio and stopped to pay. Kurt took his seatbelt off so he could get his money out, and he paid. The lady gave him change, then told him to put his seatbelt on. Which he planned to do once we pulled away, but wanted to get out of the line of cars waiting to pay. We pulled up the gate and she REFUSED to open it until he put his seatbelt on! We could not believe it. I think Kurt would have been more of an ass about it if he would not have been in shock, as these toll booth workers do not have the right to hold us hostage because of that. They are not police officers. They have the right to suggest we wear our seatbelts, but not hold us hostage. I wrote a complaint letter to the Ohio Toll Commission. Crazy. Talk about power trips........

There was some drama at the game too, with our tickets, but I dont really want to go into it. We had four tickets from the rain out in May. Two, which were bought by us, and two, which were given to us by the people who were sitting in front of us. When it started raining, the people in frnt of us gave us their tickets and said, here, you can sit in our seats when the rain stops. Thus, we now have four original tickets. The game was rained out. So, we were like, kewl, we have four tickets to the makeup in July. We went on the Indians website, which clearly states you have to have the original ticket to get into the makeup, and they do not reprint tickets, etc. We then called (twice) the Indians box office to make sure ALL the tickets would work and the reassured us that all the tickets would work. So, we invited my Dad and went. Well, when we got there, our original tickets worked. but, the tickets we were given would not work. I guess the season ticket holders had somehow got them reprinted (even though this is not allowed and clearly on their website), and since they were reprinted, our tickets would not work. We were pretty mad about it, just based on principle, and the fact that we called twice and went on the website. They ended up making us buy a third ticket near our seats. Since the game was such low attendance, we all did get to sit together, but I would have even been more mad if we had to sit separately. I am going to write a complaint letter to the Indians as well this week. I think their PR people were HORRIBLE (the least they could have done is given us a free third ticket for our troubles). This has got to happen a lot with rainouts, and I think they need to put the truth on their website and educate the people in the box office more.

So, I guess you could say we had a lot of drama dished on us from the state of Ohio this weekend! I was thrilled to drive back over the border into Michigan! :).

Today, slept in, got up and headed into the Motion. I had to finish work on an Emergency Motion I need to file on Monday, and drafted a new divorce as well as a couple other Motions and filed some bankruptcy stuff as well, paid some bills. I can *kinda* see my desk now. Heh. We then went and bought fish food, stopped and bought bird food, and I went grocery shopping, which we really needed. Did a little laundry and dishes, and made dinner, worked out......

So, thought I would fill you in on a yummy frozen treat I have been LOVING latley.

Click here to see. These are Weight Watchers Cookies anc Cream bars, and OMG, so good! Also, two new diet pops I have been liking, Diet A&W Root Beer, and Diet Cherry Dr Pepper. Both sooooo good.

Oh! My new $6 shoes came in the mail on Friday and they are SOOOO cute. Click here to see them, however, this pic does not do this shoe justice. Love it and it seems to be comfy! I love this brand, I have like three pairs now, and I get complimented on them every time I wear them, so I am sure this pair will be loved by others as well. And since ideeli sold them to me for $6, I am psyched! I heart that site.

Busy week this week, with plans on Monday after work, and Tuesday after work, then Thursday, Rebecca and I leave for our girls trip to Manistee! So, if I am not posting, that would be why! Happy Sunday!

14 days

14 days since my last post. Seriously pathetic. Life has been crazy busy, and I have been every night trying to put my post together about the Montreal trip. Yep, not done yet. Whoops. July is just insane with things going on.

I will get to the Montreal trip, I promise! ;).

This weekend, we are going to Cleveland on Saturday for the Tigers game. This is the make-up game from the one we went to that was partially rained out. We are taking my Dad, leaving early to drive there, and coming back after the game (unless we stay and have dinner with our friend, Terry). Looking forward to a baseball game. I have not been to enough this summer. Speaking of baseball, was bummed the American League lost the All Star Game! First time in 14 years! Crazy. That's OK, we will take them back year! :).

Went to another Judge fundraiser tonight for Judge Hughes. I always go into these things thinking I will not enjoy myself, but I had a total blast! My friend, Teddy, went with me, and I had a really good time talking to some of the Judges and my attorney friends, appraisers, mediators, etc. It was at Nemo's in Detroit, which was a cute little bar near old Tigers Stadium. Really glad I went.

There has been emergency after emergency at the office. I will be glad when work gets back to normal and not "IHAVEANISSUETHATNEEDSACOURTDATETODAYORIWILLDIE" with all that comes in the door. I think I have filed more emergency motions in the past two weeks than I have in the past year. It's crazy. I have attributed it to the really hot weather. Everyone is cooped up in their AC in their house and the emergencies are brewing.....Maybe cooler weather will bring less craziness? Let's hope!

Anyway, I promise to post more soon! :). Hope everyone is having an awesome July thus far!

Montreal

We are here! Landed in Montreal and got to our hotel around 800 PM. Flight was great, easy to get taxi to hotel, found cute little Mexican place to have dinner, and we are now passing out in the room. Hotel is super nice, and we are on the top floor (Kurt's favorite place, LOL). Room has this gorgeous tub and a fireplace (not needed, but pretty).

Cant wait to explore tomorrow! Night! :).

Stolen From Mindy

Fill out and post on your blog!

1. It’s 2AM and you are not home. You are more than likely:

This is very rare. Probably out of town someplace, in a hotel.

2. What’s the last thing you spent more than $100 on?

Hmm. I just paid my balance on my Kroger Mastercard. Exciting! ;)

3. What do your bank checks look like?

Boring ones. They are business checks and have an H for my last name on them in the corner. I dont have personal checks.

4. Where did the shirt you are currently wearing come from?

It's from Kohl's, and dark grey.

5. Name something that will be on your Christmas wish list:

Being on vacation with Kurt. That's IT.

6. What color is your toothbrush?

Blue and white

7. Name something you collect and tell us about it.

I collect wood bowls from around the world. I don't have many, but have them from almost every Central American country I have been to as well as Uganda. Some are at home, some in my office.

8. Last restaurant you ate at. Who were you with? How was it?

J Alexander's, which was awesome. I was with Kurt, and our friends Cassie and Ken.

9. Who was the last person you bought a birthday card for?

No idea, I rarely buy bday cards....Prob my Grama?

10. What is your worst bad habit?

Procrastination.

11. Name a magazine to which you subscribe?

Lucky

12. Your favorite pizza toppings?

Crab or Shrimp and Feta Cheese

13. Whose number were you looking up the last time you used a phone book?

Hmm, I rarely use a phone book either. Prob an attorney.

14. Other than family, who is the person that you love most?

This question is impossible to answer, LOL. I have many friends I love dearly and I am not going to single one person out.

15. What is the last thing you cooked?

I made myself bowtie pasta with marinara and boca meat last night.

16. Name something you wouldn’t want to buy used.

Make-up

17. Which shoe do you put on first?

Right.

18. What is the last thing you remember losing?

My phone charger.

19. What is the ugliest piece of furniture in your house?

My couches need to be replaced badly. My nephew's dog ruined them (when he was a puppy, he rippped portions of them open) and now that he has moved out, I need to replace the couches.

20. Last thing you bought and ended up returning?

a toner cartridge for my fax machine.

21. What perfume/cologne do you wear?

I have way too many to list. Today, I am wearing Fresh Index Rose.

22. Your favorite board game?

Scattergories.

23. What was the last board game you played?

Taboo at Rebecca's house.

24. Where did your vehicle come from?

The one I am driving today came from the Saab dealership in Ann Arbor, MI.

25. If a movie was made about your life what would the theme song be?

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

26. You’re sad, who can cheer you up easily?

Kurt or my Mom.

27. What was the color of the bridesmaid dresses of the last wedding you went to?

I actually do not remember the last wedding I went to. I think blue?

28. What house cleaning chore do you hate to do the most?

Bathrooms.

29. What is your favorite way to eat chicken?

I prefer to not kill chickens, thanks.

30. It is your birthday. You hope the cake is...

I am not a huge cake person. I would rather have tiramisu.

Updates

Busy week!

We went to another judge fundraiser for our friend, Gene Ferguson, who is running for 33rd District Court (a court I rarely even go to). It was a fun night, we sat at a table with a bunch of friends of ours, and just talked and had a great time. Dinner was awesome too. I really hope he wins, Gene is a really genuine guy who is very even tempered and would do a great job.

Had a budget and board meeting on Monday night. Nothing board related now until mid-July. Summer we get a slight break from meetings since school is not in session.

Had dinner on Saturday night with Cassie and Ken at J. Alexander's in Livonia. The food was awesome, Kurt and I both had fish tacos and a spinach dip app. Got dessert, key lime pie, ate like 2 bites and had to bring the rest home. I dont know why I ever try to get dessert, i can never eat it. It was great to see them and catch up. We may all go together to Chicago later this year to see the Lions play, which would be super kewl. Got my hair done Saturday afternoon and am continuing to grow it out. I had her trim it and cut some more layers in, got the same color done since I am really liking it lately and dont want to mess with it. Bought a new shampoo (Pureology) and bought a refill of my fav conditioner, Aquage. Kurt and I ran some errands as well, we needed bird seed and stuff for the yard, and bought some kewl containers for the back porch to hold the bird seed and fish/turtle food. We have had some raccoons visiting and getting into stuff and I wanted it in containers.

Today was awesome. I really needed a *nothing* day. We just chilled all day on the couches. Walked the dogs several times, did laundry, made dinner, worked out, watched a movie "When In Rome". Movie was kinda lame, really, but an easy watch.

Happy 32nd Birthday, Rebecca!!!!! :). Can't wait until you get your new camera. Maybe you can get it by using all survey gift certificates, hehe.

Stolen from Friends

Autobiography

I stole this fun little survey from Sarah and Nancy.


♥ What are your middle names? Richard and Anne. His, I think, is after one of his uncles. Mine was the only name my Dad liked, and is also the same middle name as one of my Mom's best friends, who she has known since elementary school. My Dad was really particular about names. I was supposed to be Kathleen (Katie) Elizabeth, but my Dad did not like it, and Lori Anne was the only name he would agree upon. I am kinda glad, because katie is not a very lawyerly name, but I do think katie would suit me. I love that name, and I think it is a happy, upbeat name! :).

♥ How long have you been together? We have been married since December 12, 2001 (so 8 years, 6 months, 14 days).

♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating? Not long. We met working at a restaurant together. We were both waiting tables. Kurt was a total player, and had pretty much dated or gone out with all single girls at the place when I came along. I prob worked there about 2 weeks when we hung out for the first time.

♥ Who asked whom out? I actually asked him out. I asked him to hang out at a local dance club with my friends and I, so it was not really a date. The next time we went out, he asked me out.

♥ How old are each of you? I'm 33, and Kurty is 39.

♥ Do you have any children together? The furry variety, yes. The human variety, no.

♥ What about pets? three Chinese pugs, Oscar, age 7, Vito, age 6, Gretel, Age 5. Also, one persian cat, Bugsy, age 4. We also have LOTS of pets outside, like our raccoon that has babies here each year, 100s of bunnies, birds galore, fox, deer, fish in our pond, turtles, ducks, heron, frogs, snakes, groundhogs, and once, a cougar.

♥ Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? None really. Our relationship is weirdly easy. we rarely have even a disagreement or argument. I guess the hardest thing is finding time to relax together.

♥ Did you go to the same school? Kinda. I went to law school at Wayne State, and he got his masters in law (LLM) at Wayne State. But not at the same time.

♥ Are you from the same hometown? Nope. Im from Manistee, hes from Pinconning.

♥ Who is the smartest? Both of us are pretty smart. I would say we are each smart at certain things, but he is probably overall the smartest.

♥ Who is more sensitive? Me. I cry at happy TV commercials.

♥ Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? Uganda in Africa.

♥ Who has the craziest exes? No clue. Prob him. None of mine were really crazy.

♥ Who has the worst temper? I guess him. I prob get mad more often, but when he does get mad, his temper is much worse. neither one of us get angry very often.

♥ Who does the cooking? I do all of it. I dont think Kurt has cooked something in like 13 years. But, it is one of the things I do around here, and I like to do it. Also, if I did not do it, Kurt would just eat out like every meal, or not eat, LOL.

♥ Who is more social? Me. Hands down. Kurt would really be happy to stay home each and every night and never socialize. Once we are out, he has fun, but we have such little time at home with work, he would much rather stay in.

♥ Who is the neat-freak? Neither one of us is, but I am much more than him. I organize my closet by color (and his), I have my shoes perfectly lined up on shelves, and so on.

♥ Who is more stubborn? Gosh, this one is pretty freaking even. Probably him. We are both lawyers, and I think all lawyers are stubborn, LOL.

♥ Who hogs the bed? The pugs? haha. Neither one of us hogs, but if I have to pick, prob him.

♥ Who wakes up earlier? Him. I like to sleep in, he just can't most of the time.

♥ Where was your first date? Well, our first non-date was to the sports/dance club in Pontiac where we hung out with my friends. Our next date was to Rams Horn after work for a snack at like 1 in the morning.

♥ How do you spend the holidays? On vacation!

♥ Who is more jealous? Me.

♥ How long did it take to get serious? Not very long at all. a week?

♥ Who eats more? About even, really. Maybe he eats a little more.

♥ Who does/did the laundry? Me. Kurt rarely does laundry.

♥ Who’s better with the computer? Me. Kurt actually did not really even know how to use one until about a year after we met when he was forced to learn in law school.

♥ Who drives when you are together? Him, almost always. I make him nervous, haha.

♥ Who is the romantic one? Neither one of us is really romantic, but I guess me.

Busy Weekend

Busy weekend! Normally, I don't like having something going on every second, but this was a fun weekend, with laidback activities.

Saturday, I slept in then headed to lunch with Hollie and Angela at Olive Garden in Southgate. Loved catching up with them. :). After that, I got an oil change and car wash for the Saab, and stopped at Border's to buy a couple books about Montreal. Also bought two books on clearance about places to visit and see. Really huge books, so I will read them while working out and figure out 1000000 more places for me to put on my travel lists, LOL. Just what I need. That night, we headed to Rebecca's for game night, which was super fun. Met two new people, Tameka and Natalie, who are in the Jaycee's with Rebecca. Super kewl girls. We played a new trivia game that is not yet on the market, and Taboo. Also just chilled, talked, etc. And Rebecca's snacks were all awesome! :).

Today, we got up and picked up Vito's meds at the vet. Then headed to the Tigers game. My friend Lisa got tickets from the law firm she works at, and invited us. Awesome seats, sold out game, Tigers won, gorgeous weather, AND had a great time catching up with Lisa and Brian. I kept reapplying sunscreen, and don't think I got burnt, which is a miracle with how scorching the sun was. MI is so amazing this time of year. Oh, and Lisa is dangerous. She may be more obsessed with travel than I am, and she makes me want to go more places. Bad, bad. We are both pretty much game for anything, they wouldd be great people to travel with really.

Came home, and kinda have a headache. Sometimes too much sun does that to me. Took two walks with the puggies in the yard, and have been chillin since. The headache is making me lazy......Laundry can wait. :).

Parties, Blueberry Vodka, Canada and Wax

Had a really nice night out at the Judge Popke reception (she is running for re-election). I normally *never* do these functions. However, I had a change of heart recently, and decided, if I really like the particular Judge, I will go, simply to support them. I hate when attorneys use these functions as a means to get ahead, or get an advantage in the court room, or suck up. Most attorneys at these functions are genuinely supportive, however, there is the standard set who are geniunely sucking up. I prefer to get my way in the courtroom by doing a good job, being nice and reasonable.......I was told by a friend that I am naive if I don't think some of this job is political, but you know what? I don't care. I know it's political, but I have no desire to be a political person. I detest politics and I am just going to go on doing my job, and trying to be a good person and attorney and not get involved in that mess. That said, I rode down there with my friend and fellow attorney, Michelle. We ended up hanging out a lot with our other friend, Nicole, while down there, and I had a nice time chatting with a lot of the attorneys I practice with all the time. Said hi to some of the Judges there, tried the food they were serving, and drumroll please---had a drink! I tried this awesome vodka (blueberry vodka by Stoli) mixed with sugar free red bull and ummmmm, super yum. Highly recommend. So, anyway, I really hope Judge Popke gets re-elected, and I am sure she will. She is one of those Judges that really cares about the people, and loves her job. She has been awesome to me since day one of my practicing, and she is a good person, mother, and judge. Plus, she is blonde! ;).

Today, Kurt and I drove out to Westland this morning to survey the area and start looking for office space there, to open Office #4. I may end up doing some work out there, as it is right near my Grama and Aunt's house, and if I have later appointments, I could go visit them afterwards. It was nice to drive around with the top down and get some sun and enjoy the weather. I got a massage today too because I felt a headache coming on, and got my nails done after work with Shellac again. Funny story, the girl doing my nails accidentally spilled hot wax all over me. It was covering like half my skirt and part of my shirt. It was a total mistake and i was not upset in the least, and it did not hurt me since it was all on my clothing. The girl was just mortified with herself, she felt horrible. I told her no big deal, but she kept saying sorry.....they wanted to write off my visit, but I paid anyway. I did not want her to end up paying of something, I know those spa like places sometimes take the $$ from the employees, and they work hard and I hate that. Anyway, my nails turned out great, and I amused everyone around me with the latest fun stories of the office. HAHA. Went to dinner with Kurt after that and took a couple walks around the yard with Kurty and the puggies.

So, I booked flights to Montreal yesterday! We are going over the 4th. I am psyched. I have always wanted to visit there, and the flight is short from Detroit, just 1:45. Have not booked a hotel yet, started researching them and will make a choice soon. There is a ton to do there, so I am sure we will not be bored, and a friend of mine lives there too, so I am sure we will meet up with her and her boyfriend. Super fun. Lots of photo ops for sure.

Best Friends

This commercial makes me stop and watch every time it's on. Love it. The capuchin is hilarious and I love the interaction between the doggy and the monkey. Too cute.

100 Things

This was stolen from Brittany.......

Post 100 Things That Make You Happy. Can't wait to read everyone else's! This was actually pretty hard to do. I just tried to type anything that came to mind, without just putting names of people, etc. Took me quite some time, but here ya go! Please don't judge the randomness. I tried to be quick and not *think* while doing this.

Pugs snoring
Hikes in the jungle
Watching monkeys play in the trees
Photography of any sort
Travel
Lying in a hammock with the sound of the ocean in the background
Inside jokes with Kurt
Talking to my Mom on the phone
Aimlessly wandering around Sephora
Laughing so hard you cry
Kickboxing
Massages at the spa
Pedicures
Shellac manicures
Walks on the beach
Playing in the ocean
Snorkeling in Galapagos
Banana daiquiris
Bargain shopping
Capri pants
My cat’s personality
Relaxing at home with my family
How my nephew Nick loves to read Harold and the Purple Crayon
Rainbows
Black sand beaches
Tigers baseball
Spicy Botan Shrimp from Crave in Dearborn
Sushi with Rebecca
Making Kory try weird foods at restaurants
Going to art fairs and the theatre with my Aunt
My grampa’s jokes
Spending time with either one of my gramas
How my maternal grama swore in front of me for the first time ever last year---it was hilarious.
How even though she was the enemy in high school, my Mom is now one of my closest friends
Getting to help people every day at work
Having a reputation at court for resolving my cases and being reasonable
Citrus smelling candles
Blueberry Muffins
Ahi tuna or swordfish tacos
My eye color
Watching Kurt argue a difficult case in court
My homemade mac and cheese
Sterling State Park
Walks in my backyard
My friends, and how we can always pick up where we left off, no matter how much time has gone by
Cute shoes, especially heels
Pretty, unique jewelry
Auctions
Looking at old pictures
Eating pineapple in Central America
Observing Gorillas in the wild (random, I know, but one of the happiest hours of my life)
The Osa Peninsula
Being in the middle of nowhere with Kurt
Being my own boss
Wandering around antique stores with Kurt
The show Parole Board
Watching Legally Blonde
Billy Joel’s music
The Gilmore Girls
Trying something new for the first time
Sitting and talking to friends after dinner
Playing tennis
Designer sunglasses
Cookie Dough Ice Cream
Unique lighting fixtures
My Dad’s sense of humor
My wedding ring
A clean house (which is rare around here, LOL)
Throwing wrapping paper at family during Christmas
Eating chips and dip with my Mom
Being debt free (except my house)
Planning vacations
Winning in Court
Cobalt Blue glass
70 degree, sunny weather
Flip flops
XM Radio
Doing nothing with Rebecca. J.
Big Al’s breadsticks and cheese sauce
Reading travel books
The gym Kurt built for me in the basement
My master bathroom
Victoria’s Secret body mists
Playing poker in Vegas
Cirque shows
Scrabble
Driving with the top down in the car
Facebook
Reading my friends’ blogs
Sunsets
Pantene Detangling Spray
Willow trees
Waterfalls
Nick and Nino’s fish tacos and fries
Live music
Heated car seats
Free time
Taking a bath in a Jacuzzi tub
Glee
Always seeing the glass half full

New Phone

Today was so productful! :). No court for Kurt or I (no clue how we both got out of it), so we got a ton of paperwork done. Whoot. I heart clearing my desk. No court tomorrow either, which may be a miracle. Love when Stacey and Jessica can cover everything.

Worked part of Sunday, and got a LOT of paperwork done, which was nice. Stopped at the mall afterwards, still on a quest to find some new work heels, and had no luck, again. Macy's has a few pair I liked, but none in my size. Seriously, Macy's. The one in Taylor is horrible with stocking sizes. Also stopped at NY and Co (liked nothing). I guess it's good when the stores have nothing I like, less money spent shopping! :).

My computer is fixed! Yay! And for only $39. I needed a new keyboard. It was horrible not being able to really use the bottom part of the keyboard though. And, they cleaned my laptop for free, which is good since I am lazy and don't do it as much as I should. Thanks computer place!

Poor little Gretel does not seem to be feeling well tonight. She looks really tired, and is not eating treats like normal. She did take two walks with us through the yard tonight, so I am not overly worried, but I hope she perks up soon! I had this sudden burst of energy on our walks tonight and decided to see if I could still do front handsprings! I can! Took more energy than in high school, but I am still a gymnast! hehe. I should start doing that more, great workout of some different muscles. Two nights ago, Kurt walked to the pond at dusk and saw a deer! We know they hang around there (footprints), but we have never seen one at the pond before. So kewl. The pugs did not see it as it sauntered away, which is good, because they would have freaked out I think. LOL.

Board meeting last night was LONG. I got there at 530 and did not leave until 842. And, I left early because I had to pick up a prescription and was not feeling well. It was just a committee meeting, so no biggie, but still. Meetings take way too long.........I guess as a lawyer, I am used to having to get to the point quickly since the Judges don't want to hear the whole long story, and it exasperates me to just dwell on issues forever. AARGH.

I want to get the new iPhone. I have the first edition iPhone, which has been an awesome, reliable phone. However, I think it is starting to die. There are a couple minor "lines" appearing on the sides of the screen, which don't stop the use of the phone, but I dont think it will be long until it gets worse. So, we stopped at AT&T today to try and pre-order. 45 minutes wait. Yea, no thanks. Tried to place an order online, site was down. So, looks like I will be waiting. Which is fine, it's not like I need the phone right now or anything. I generally like products to come out first and see how others like them before purchasing, but since mine is about to die, it kinda seemed like a sign! :). Hopefully when I totally *need* a phone, I will be able to get the new one.

6 months

Long time, no secret posts. Click here to read.

Muggy.....

Wow, it was muggy in our area today! It was around 90 degrees out, which is pretty rare for here. Love this weather for convertible driving! :).

Kurt and started the day off with massages, which was my reward to us for doing 43 hearings this week. After that, Kurt wanted to stop at Vince's for lunch, so we ate outside on their patio and clogged our arteries. I have not eaten there in like years, so it was yummy. Tried their homemade rootbeer, and it is the BEST I have ever had. So good. After that, I decided to drive into town to run some errands, but did not get much done. Stopped at the place I wanted to buy glasses at, found NOTHING. Think I am just going to have to bite the bullet and pay the prices at Sears. I found a pair of Kenneth Cole's I really liked there, but did not want to pay their prices since America's Best is so cheap. Boo. Then I went to Kohl's and Elder Beerman, looking for work clothes, found nothing. Stopped in this store called Maurice's at the mall, which I generally do not shop at since they have junior sizes, but I walked towards the back and found a career kinda section. Tried on a black skirt and shirts and loved it all! I guess I should stop being prejudice towards the junior type stores. I bought this skirt, this shirt (in ruby red), this shirt, and this shirt. The shirts are great because I can wear them under suits, but also wear them with dress pants and without the suit coat after I get out of court. Looked for shoes today too, but did not have any luck in that regard either. The stores tend to have shoes that are too casual for court during the summer. I need a trip to a DSW with Rebecca.........Came home and did some stuff around here, talked to my Momma on the phone, then took a short nap on the couch....Dinner with Kurt. We ate at Applebees for the first time in years, and they still have a really lame menu for vegetarians. Food and service were good, but it will prob be years before we go back, LOL.

No idea what I am up to tomorrow. I really should go in and do some paperwork, but I may just ignore that need and do something else! :). Hope everyone is having a nice weekend.

Relief

So glad this week is over. So glad. Did not prevail in my prisoner case today, but did not really expect to since my client is in prison and cannot care for the child until December. I did the best I could with what I had, but will have to file a parenting time motion for him when he gets out mid-December. I hate being interrupted when speaking (it's kinda an unwritten rule between lawyers), and always get annoyed and tell someone not to do it when I am interrupted. Today though, I was arguing against a law student, and kinda yelled at her, then felt guilty about it afterwards. She actually said she was sorry after the hearing, but I wish I would have said it more nicely. Whoopsie. I will do some kind of nice deed soon to make up for being a temporary bitch. I guess I am allowed to have an off moment once in a while. I am always overly nice to everyone down there, so I will cut myself some slack.

I scheduled Kurt and I both massage appointments tomorrow, which is much needed for both of us. Our office had 43 hearings this week, and Stacey was out Monday, Jessica out Friday, so it was a LOT of running around. Everything got done really smoothly, but being out of the office and in court that much is hard on you after 5 days in a row of it. Next week, we only have like 22, so things should be more calm.

I am going to try and relax this weekend, but try to get some things done as well. On my goal list: go to the new place in town to look for new glasses, go to Kohl's or the mall to look for some more skirts to wear to court and work, as well as some new peep toe heels, return lighting fixtures at Lowe's that have been in my trunk forever, LAUNDRY, grocery shop.....take a hike at the State Park. OK, this list is not sounding relaxing, LOL. Hopefully, I can accomplish some of it anyway. :). Weirdly, getting things crossed off my list relaxes me.

Anyway, off to bed. Hope everyone had a nice Friday! Happy Friday!

"In the Home"

I had a really interesting hearing today. It was supposed to be interesting because it was a hearing about a party who committed perjury, but the interesting part was actually the other lawyer's behavior.

He actually said, on the record, in talking about my client's income, that he believes that "no woman should work outside of the home at any time." I think my mouth (and that of all employed women in the court room, including the female court reporter, the female law clerk, the female deputy, and the female legal secretary) dropped to the floor. I was flabbergasted, that an attorney would say something so stupid and irrelevant on the record. The Judge basically told him that the court did not share his chauvinist opinion. Wow. The same lawyer, seconds later, accused ME of knowing that my client committed perjury. Thank God the Judge had my back on that right away (and since the Judge's daughter is a very successful surgeon, I already knew he did not agree). I would have totally gone off on the guy. It's hilarious to me that an attorney who has been disbarred not once, but THREE TIMES, would accuse ME of anything. Hilarious. I guess the guilty tend to accuse the innocent.....He ended up saying he was sorry and taking the statement back, but it was bullshit. He simply said it to try and cover his ass with the Judge, he did not mean it at all. He called my office prior to the hearing and was telling Jessica the same thing, and Jessica basically told him he was absurd and I would never tell anyone to lie on the record. He is now placed on the shit list at my office. Cannot wait until he retires (and since he is ancient, this could hopefully occur at any time).

So happy tomorrow is Friday and we only have one more day of court insanity until things calm down a little bit next week. I have one pretty complex hearing in the morning, and Kurt has a really complex trial in the afternoon, but the other hearings tomorrow are pretty cut and dry and then we get the weekend, finally. Super yay.

Placed a Sephora order yesterday with a gift card Rebecca got me for my bday! Am waiting for Kurt to get in from mowing the lawn so I can make dinner, and I really should do some laundry. Trying to figure out my weekend too. I would really like to go to Birch Run to shop, but I also need some rest. Decisions, decisions.

My Sister's Keeper

OK, I know, I know. The book is supposedly better than the movie. But, I did not read the book and just got done watching the movie. Umm, pretty much cried throughout the entire thing. Hated Cameron Diaz, OMG, wanted to smack her (until the end). And Breslin, who played Anna? Amazing job. What a fabulous, but really sad :( movie.

Kurt is refusing to take his Allegra because it makes him "tired", even though it has nothing in it to cause someone to be tired. Anyone have suggestions of something for him to take? He has tried Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec......Also, anyone have a suggestion for a vitamin I can take to help energy and alertness? I take a one a day, a vitamin C and a calcium right now.

My week of craziness at court is two days down, and it has not been too bad. Well, except for the extra hearing that popped up today in the middle of our court hearings. Kurt took care of it, but not what we need really, to have stuff just pop up. Especially when it's a complex kids taken away from Mom kinda case. Filed 7 bankruptcies at the end of the day. It's crazy how much I can do in one day. We may get hired for another complex one for Friday to add to the 10000 hearings of the week. Dad is in jail, Mom wants to move to another state. Judge hates parties moving. We would represent Dad, who gets out of jail later this year, but will be able to appear at the hearing by phone, and whom I have never talked to or met. His Mom would be hiring us. The drama.....

Saw Kwame Kilpatrick is being assigned to the prison in Manistee, my hometown, and a warrant has been issued for Lindsay Lohan's arrest. For some reason, both of those things really amuse me......

I have so many little things I need to do, and like no time during the day to do them, AARGH. Need to call and order both myself and Kurt contacts (which requires me finding a price online since Sears does price matching and I save a fortune), need to go and pick out new glasses, need to take my computer in, need to find a place to take drycleaning that is open on the weekends.......Someone, please send me more hours in the day! :).

Twister!

Tornadoes hit the area this weekend! Crazy. My Aunt emailed me on Saturday night, telling me that there was a tornado warning for my area, or I never would have known. We went to bed, and I woke up around 230 AM. I rarely wake during the night, so I was listening to the weather outside and it sounded REALLY bad. POURING rain, high winds, it sounded horrible. I woke Kurt up and told him that I thought we should go into the basement. We have a foldout couch down there so we can sleep if necessary. Power went out right after that, so I walked to the basement in the dark. Took the dogs, and stayed down there a short time until things calmed down, then came back upstairs. The pugs were pretty worked up, especially Oscar. He sat in bed and whimpered for like an hour, which is so unlike him. He was super stressed out. Sometimes I think dogs can sense things more than we can.

Click here to read about it in the local news.

Anyway, got up in the morning, and no power still, which is odd for our house. We rarely lose power at all, or if we do, it's for a few minutes. We went outside and saw a TON of destruction at our neighbors' houses. Fences down, hugs trees split in half, holes in roofs, trees that fell into houses destroying parts of them, branches everywhere. Our neighbor's HUGE trampoline had literally flown from their yard, which is several blocks at least from our yard, into the center of our yard. Looked it up on the news and saw that there actually were three tornadoes, one of which caused damage to one of the towers at the nuclear power plant, which is right by our house. There was really bad damage and injuries at Estral Beach, which is less than a mile from our house. Dundee, a local town, is shut down and you cannot enter without showing your ID, and an emergency was declared and is still in effect right now.

Seriously though, how many major things can happen to me within 6 months? First, the terrorist attack and now this? All I can do is laugh and be thankful that I continue to live through this stuff. Our power was out until Sunday at 630 PM, about 16 hours. A friend of mine who lives near here did not get power until 830 PM tonight. So crazy.

Other than that, weekend was pretty uneventful. Was supposed to go to rebecca's on Sunday, but we spent the day dealing with the lack of power, helping neighbors who had issues, etc., so I need to plan another outing there soon. I was exhausted from lack of sleep as well, so I needed a nap, which I did take. That nap made me SOOO awake today! Another female attorney at court today told me I looked radiant and asked what I have been doing lately. The only thing I could come up with was that nap, haha. I guess I need to sleep more. Sounds good to me....Had dinner tonight with my friend Nancy at Crave in Dearborn. Buy one meal, get one free, and half off apps! What a deal! Love it when high end places have deals. It was nice to catch up with her.

Court is crazy this week! We have 49 hearings in one week. I am going to be ready for Friday night long before then....

Puerto Viejo Trip Report and Pics

So, I need to blog about the trip before I forget details. This was, which is not the norm of me, a pretty laid-back, relaxing trip. Normally, I am doing something and have something planned every second, but I enjoyed just kinda doing not much but relaxing. I needed it, work has been stressful lately, and I enjoy just chilling once in a while.

Anyway, I will recap and post trip pic links for everyone! This trip was to Puerto Viejo, CR, and was chosen simply because it is an area of the country we have not been to yet! It is on the Caribbean coast, and is about 4 hours from San Jose and 2 hours from Limon. It is also only a short boat ride from Bocas del Toro, Panama, which is one of my fav islands in the world.

Thursday

So, we left really early on 5/27. Kory spent the night and went to the airport with us, and we met Gary and Michelle there. Flew Continental, with a short layover in Houston, then on to San Jose! Picked up the shuttle to our rental car place (Economy), picked up our car (long process, ugh), then started on our 4 hour drive to Puerto Viejo! Had a GPS, which, if you ever drive in Costa Rica, GET ONE. We learned our lesson in 12/06 when we drove around without one. CR basically has NO street signs, and San Jose is crazy to get out of without a GPS or guide. So, it was slow moving to Puerto Viejo. A lot of semis on the road and people driving super slow, but we finally got there and checked into our aMAZing beach house. The house is owned by a local hotel, Banana Azul, and the house itself is called the Magic Moon House. It is three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, with a kitchen, huge deck with hammocks and tables, and an extra bed. It is gated as well, to keep the local criminals out. J. The beach is right across from the house, and is black sand, which is my fav kinda beach. Beautiful beach, with almost no people anytime we were down there. So, the first night we headed into town and had dinner at a really yummy place called Chile Rojo that had a sushi bar and a full menu. Kurt and I split some sushi and had ahi tuna for dinner, which was awesome. Gary asked if you could smoke in the restaurant, and they kinda looked at him like he was crazy, LOL. I guess not everyone has Michigan’s no smoking in restaurants law. Haha. After that, we were all exhausted, so we went home and crashed. No AC in the place (no AC really most places in Puerto Viejo), but the fans in the rooms kept things cool and we were fine. Oh, we met the resident kitty as well! There is a cat that lives on the property and was super cute. Meowed to greet us every time we showed up. Love.

Friday

Got up early the next morning, as I had booked a hike at La Ceiba and a trip to the animal sanctuary. Gary and Michelle last minute decided to join us, so we all headed there. The Park was gorgeous. We did a hike that was about 2.5 hours through primary and secondary forest. I saw a fer de lance for the first time, and three eye lash vipers (both are the most poisonous snakes in CR)! We also saw all three poison dart frogs that are in that area, which was pretty kewl. I love the little colored frogs. The hike was HOT, as it was muggy and over 90 degrees, but pretty easy otherwise. Gary had a hard time with it, but I don’t think he is used to hiking. Had lemonade afterwards, then headed to the sanctuary, which has to be one of the kewlest places I have EVER been. We started off by meeting the howler monkeys and the baby monkeys. They jumped on us, fell asleep in our arms, hugged us, swung on our arms. We also got to pet a jaguarundi. Headed next to the sloths and held a baby sloth, looked at the adults playing in the bushes. Got to see some kewl owls, a margay, a red eyed tree frog (my fav kind of frog), caiman, and lots of snakes. They help these orphaned or injured animals and eventually release them back into the wild, if possible. Some are too hurt to ever go back. So anytime you go here, you have a chance of seeing different creatures. It really was amazing, because when you are hiking, it’s not like the animals generally come very close to you. Headed back to the house next, then changed and headed into town to have lunch. Ate at this place and talked to the owner, Winston, who was super kewl. Had a shrimp and rice meal there, Caribbean style, which was super yummy. We then had a couples massage at a spa called Bliss, which was next to the restaurant. Great massage. Found a kewl bar on the beach to hang out at next, called Tex Mex. Tex Mex became our local hangout. Best banana daiquiris, and awesome food. The owner is named Roger and from Great Britain. We decided that night to have dinner at this recommended place in Manzinillo called Maxy’s. It was a little bit of a drive. The food and service were great, and they served us an appetizer, free of charge, and I think they had the best black beans I have ever had in the life. I had the snapper there, as it was recommended by two people in Puerto Viejo. Nice dinner. We watched local kids play soccer on the beach while eating dinner and watched the basketball game.

Saturday

Kurt and I did a canoe ride on the Punta Uva river this morning. The rest stayed back at the house. I think this is the first time Kurt has ever been in a canoe, and I think he was kinda nervous at first, but it was fine. It was pretty adventurous as well, as there were parts of the river that were not passable because trees had fallen, so we had to get out and put the canoe over the tree, get back in, etc. Anyway, we saw sloths in the trees, lots of really pretty birds, turtles, fish, etc. We then did a short hike to some gorgeous views after the boat ride, which was nice. Went back the house next, and decided to relax, hang out at the beach, and have lunch in town at Tex Mex (had fish tacos that were superb). Had another massage after this at a place called Pure Jungle Spa. While in there, our car got broken into! Nothing was in there, so they did not get anything, and we would not even have known except when Kurt went to lock the door next, he realized someone had broken the lock! Went back into town and hung out at the bar with everyone, then headed to the house to relax. We all headed into town to dinner that night at a place called Café Viejo, which was prob the nicest place in town, but I could still wear flip flops! Haha. Had an awesome tuna pizza there. Gary got sick during dinner (too much sun and beer I think), so we dropped him off after dinner then headed to Tex Mex to hear a local reggae band. The scene and people watching was hilarious. Loved it. The band was really good as well. I think Kurt was offered marijuana like 80 times. People were openly doing lines of cocaine. And it’s not legal to do so, but apparently, there are not many policia in Puerto Viejo, LOL. Went back to the house and crashed.


Sunday

Kurt and I got up and headed into town for breakfast and ended up at yes, you guessed it, Tex Mex. Had breakfast, then drove around town a little bit exploring. Headed back to the house and relaxed (nothing in life is better than sleeping in a hammock, listening to the ocean). Headed back into town to shop some and explore the little stores. I think this is the first trip ever I did not buy ONE souvenir. I usually buy a wood bowl in CR, but did not find one I was overly excited about this trip. Had drinks and lunch at Tex Mex, then headed back to the house to relax. Had massages at this place called Tup and Ro Yoga, which was like a massage place behind these people’s house. LOL. Great massages though. Had dinner that night at a place called Jungle Love that I picked out. Great place! I had this milkshake called a Jungle Love Milkshake, that was awesome. Kory and I split a shrimp pizza, and the owner there was super kewl as well. The place had great ambience, and we felt like we were in the middle of the jungle. Headed back into town after that to pick up the others, then headed back to the house. While gone, our house was *kinda* broken into. The upstairs, where Kory, Kurt and I stayed, was fine, as we had locked it all up as we were told to. The downstairs, Gary and Michelle had left their windows open and left valuables not locked up. Gary's shoes were stolen (they are really into shoes for some reason in CR, and his electric razor, phone and blood pressure pills were taken).

Monday

We left early this day for San Jose. Drive back was much quicker than drive there. Checked into our hotel, then Kurt and I headed to Jaco to try and find a realtor. There is a new highway to Jaco, which cuts the normal drive in half! Got there in about 90 minutes or so, and found a Remax and an American agent, Hannah, who lives in CR now. She was super nice and was telling us about the foreclosure market that has started to pick up in CR. None of those properties are online. Anyway, she drove us around to some areas to get an idea of what we are looking for. We found some that would be perfect for us. Like 15 minutes from Jaco (my fav town ever), about 90 minutes from San Jose (airport), and right in the jungle. She is now sending us properties and stuff daily, and we may go back in a month or so to look at more properties. I would like to buy property pretty soon, then build a house closer to when we would be retiring and moving there part-time. Had lunch at my fav place ever, The Taco Bar, then headed back to San Jose. Walked around some in San Jose, looking for a churro (which I never found BOO). Then headed to Del Ray for a night of people watching and poker! Had a great time playing a new table game. Headed back to the hotel and had dinner there, then crashed.

Tuesday

Have to go home. BOOOO. Dropped off the rental car, and the rest of the day was spent traveling back to the US.


So, pics taken can be found here. Did not take as many as usual, but that's OK! I loved the trip. Puerto Viejo would not be an area I would want to live in, but it was great to visit. The temps are too hot, and crime is a little bit too much compared to other areas of the country, and it is too far from the airport. But, I would still recommend visiting, if you want a super relaxing place to be!

Thank You!

Kurt and I went to dinner on Saturday night at our fav local place, Nick and Nino's. During the meal, the manager came by and told us that the owner had paid for our dinner, and thanked us for being great, loyal customers. I think we were shocked! That has never, ever happened to us before. The owner is a great business person doing things like that, and we thought it was super sweet of him.

Anyway, thanks Nick and Nino's! We will continue being loyal customers, since your fish tacos and fries are to DIE for! :).

Spill It

Stolen from Brittany.

Open purse, spill out contents. Blog about what is in your purse at that moment, and post a pic of the stuff.

OK, deets about what's in my purse.

1. My iPhone. Not pictured, cuz I took the pic with the phone! :).
2. Stone Mountain pink wallet, which contains reward point cards, credit card, driver's license, Social security card, AAA card.
3. $2. Which is rare, as I usually have no cash. No idea where this even came from.
4. Business card from local salon.
5. Gift certificate I was given for my bday last night.
6. Maui Jim sunglasses and case.
7. My lucky seed. I got this from the Osa Peninsula on a hike in Costa Rica and have carried it for over 2 years in my purse as a lucky charm.
8. Chap Stick.
9. Too Faced "Marcia Marcia Marcia" Lip stick.
10. I usualy have Laura Mercier pressed powder too, but I took it out this morning to use and forgot to put back in.
11. Insurance and registration info for my vehicles.
12. Key to the lockbox for school board stuff.
13. $50 in Kohl's cash, and a 15% off Kohl's coupon. need to use this before I leave this week.
14. $15 in Kroger bucks (earned from using my credit card).

Product Rave

So. I love the look of color on my nails. What do I not like? How whether I do my nails myself, or get a mani at a salon, my polish is chipping almost immediately. What's weird is that my pedis stay on for about three weeks, even wearing the heels and stuff that I do daily for work.

So, the last time I was getting a pedi, the nail techs were telling Jessica and I about this new procedure called Shellac. It's a new kind of polish that is applied using a special light, and it supposed to stay on an average of 14 days. I did not really believe it, but googled it when I got home and it looked promising.

So, Jessica and I went back this week to get it done, and OMG, I am a total fan already (even though it's only been three days). I got a darkish red color put on (called Red Baroness), and three days later, still looks as good as day one. If this truly stays for two weeks, I will be loyal to this brand for a long, long time. Click here to read an article talking about the salon I went to and the product.

Anyway, right now it is a very limited supply of the product, and only available at limited spas. Click here to see if it is available near you, and try this!

Friday Five

This was stolen from Colleen and Candice, please post on your blog as well! :)

1. Do you have an iPhone and, if so, how do you get apps and what are your favorites? Yes, in fact, I do! I have an original iPhone and I refuse to upgrade. Everyone I know with newer ones has had issues once in a while, and I have never had an issue with mine. Anyway, my fav app is the Facebook app.

2. What is your fondest memory of K-3rd grade?: Being BFFs with my friend Jill, who is still my friend to this day. I was really shy back then, and she introduced herself to me on day one of 1st grade, I was the new girl. We have been friends ever since.

3. What makes you cringe at the thought of touching?: Hmm. Dirt. I hate dirt on my hands. Yuck. Kurt is in charge of most outdoor stuff in our household.

4. If you could have any celebrity show up on your doorstep who would it be and why?: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, US Supreme Court Justice. She is my idol. For various reasons. But, it would be super kewl to meet her.

5. What would you say is your best physical feature? My smile. I get compliments on it all the time.

bullet points

So, so, far behind. Should do some bullet points to try and catch up, I think! :).

• We had an amazing experience recently at Comerica Park. I bought Kurt a package for his birthday, which is called "Join The Press Fantasy Package". Kurt is impossible to buy for, as he never wants anything, and if he does, he always just buys it when he wants it, thus, I can never surprise him or get him something he has really been wanting. Anyway, I found this and I knew it was perfect. Anyway, he was super psyched through the entire thing. We started off with a tour of the entire Press box including meeting Dan Dickerson and Jim Price (the radio announcers), meeting Rod and Mario (the TV announcers), walking through the writers area, seeing the areas where visiting radio and TV are, etc. Super kewl. We then went to our seats to watching the first inning and a half of the game and see the Ernie Harwell tribute. Which was amazing. I cried when they raised the "EH" flag for Ernie, he was such an amazing guy and a legend in Detroit. After that, we headed back up to spend time in the radio and TV booths. The guy taking us around got us the autographs of the four announcers on a baseball, as well as Ray Lane who was in the box to talk on air. We also met two Detroit Free Press writers, I read their columns all the time in the newspaper. Got to meet the VP of Public Relations for the Tigers who was an awesome really kewl guy who showed up around. We got to have dinner in the Champions Club, which is a special area for season ticket holders who buy special passes. Free food, awesome viewing of the game, TVs, etc. Oh, and the Tigers won! Against the Yankees! Whoot! It was all a once in a lifetime opportunity, and we loved it. Kurt was so excited thru the whole thing. Click here to see pics.
• 
  
  Picture above is of Kurt and Jim price, one of the radio announcers.....
• Went to Cleveland last weekend for the Tigers game. Ended up having complete crap weather, but still had a really good time. Left work at 230 on Friday and drove to Cleveland, checked into our hotel, which was right next door to the stadium. Walked to the game and had aMAZing seats in Row 2, right behind Tigers dugout. People were really nice there, even though we are techically the enemy. hehe. Watched almost 5 innings, and it started pouring......game ended up rained out. The next day, we went to The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, got massages, and had dinner with Kurt's friend, Terry, and his family in Strongsville at a really kewl brewery. We will most likely be back when the make-up game is, since we already have awesome tickets! Click here to see pics.
• My Mom was here to visit the week before Mother's Day, staying at our house on Wednesday and Thursday nights. We had a great time.....Rebecca came over to see her on Wednesday as well, and we had dinner at Nick and Nino's and got free Corona hats! :). I ended up taking part of the day off on Thursday, and Mom and I went shopping, had lunch and got massages at Somata. I loved having her here, and can't wait until I see her again.
  
  **Mom and Me at Nick and Nino's with our free hats.
  
  She brought me bday gifts early as well, a really nice multi-purpose kitchen knife with cases, a bamboo cutting board, and a Tigers girlie hat. Love the stuff. I gave her my old camera as her Mother's Day gift and I know she will love it like I loved it.
• Megan is leaving for Mexico tomorrow morning, so the office is going to be crazy until she gets back.
• Dont know why I say the above, because the office will be crazy regardless, LOL.
• Today, the office was INSANE. It totally felt like a Monday. Except, it's almost Friday! Whoot!
• Kurt found an awesome piece of property to look at in Costa Rica while we are there, which, if it pans out, has like every trait we want in a property. 85 hectares, rain forest, animals galore, river runs through the property, only like 30 minutes from San Jose, only 20 minutes from Jaco (a little surf town I love), only 20 minutes from the beach, fruit trees on the property.....we will see.
• Kory moved out permanently. It's weird with it being just the two of us here again, although since kory spent a lot of time upstairs on his own floor while here, it is not too different.
• Got pedis yesterday with Jessica after work at a place I never tried before, VIP Salon, in Riverview. Loved the place. Super nice, and great priced for a spa! I will be going back for sure.

Not much else going on here. Looking forward to a low key weekend. Have an eye doctor appointment, and that's the only plan I have to leave this house. I am sure I will do something else, but nothing set in stone yet, which is nice after a really busy last couple weeks.