15 Minutes

So, we are leaving in 15 minutes for Vegas! Yay! Well, leaving for the airport anyway. :).

I am really wondering how we are going to fit everyone's luggage in the rental car, but I guess we will figure that out when we get there. For 4 adults and a 5 day trip, I have no idea why we need so much *stuff*, but it's all good......

Can't wait to get there and start relaxing. Work this week has been a bitch. We wanted to leave the office early and of course AS SOON as we were about to leave, two clients walked in and would not shut up. About pointless shit. FINALLY, they left, and we were out of there!

I may or may not post while there, so talk to everyone soon!

One More Day.....One More Day....

So, we leave for vacay tomorrow night. Whoot! I actually packed ahead of time (tonight) and it will be nice to not have to rush around before our flight. We are flying Spirit for the first time, so I will have to post after the flight on if I hated it or liked it.......I hate Northwest andd Ryan International, other than that, I am fine with everyone else I have flown. My fav is Contintental, but their flights to Vegas were all screwy with layovers and stuff. I don't do layovers unless totally necessary.

Work was OK today. I went downtown to file because I just wanted to get out of the office. The weather was gorgeous, and sometimes it is nice to just drive with the top down the car and blare music.

Oh, I bought a Michael Buble CD at Target tonight and listened to it a little bit on the way home. I think I bought an older one, but I already love it. I heard a song of his on the radio the other day and knew his work would relax me, just like Colbie Calliat's does. Sigh. Yay. I need relaxing music these days.

Rebecca is already over here, she was sick of her family and had to get out! Night all.

Nothing Much

Nothing really exciting to report on here. Just thought I would post a fun pic.........Work has been crazy busy the past two days, and we have not gotten home until 7 or after each night. I am exhausted. Ugh. I just keep looking forward to leaving for Vegas on Thursday night. I am glad Misty is working the next two days so I can have a slight break with the phone calls. I seriously detest the phone.

I found out one of my friends from high school is pregnant! But, I can't really post about it yet, because it's not really public knowledge, totally. I will wait until she announces it to everyone so I don't ruin the surprise! ;). Congrats though!

Did some more laundry tonight, and I hate to jinx it, but I *think* I am almost caught up. Which pretty much NEVER happens. I am running out of stuff to put in the washing machine! It's a freaking miracle! AHAHA.

Anyway, super tired, so I am heading to bed. Go Tigers!

Ramblings of Me

Another weekend day at the office down. Today, a miracle occured, my friends. I got to the bottom of the pile of bankruptcies to draft. I have no idea how I did it, since I woke up with a headache today and did not think I would be able to focus..........with the help of a diet cherry coke and tuna sub from Subway, I forged through and finished! We have been so slammed lately, that I have had at least a few, if not more, files I needed to work on in that area of our practice. It feels amazing to get down to the bottom. That will change very soon because I have a feeling we are getting hired on a bunch of new ones this week, but at least I am 100% caught up with the files we have! WOO HOO. Kurt also got done with some family law stuff as well as a really complicated tax case he is working on, so it was nice to get that out of the way.

Only 4 days until Vegas! :). I can't wait. Rebecca, on the other hand, told Kory this weekend that she is MORE excited about her trip with Val (cruise) this December. Our entire household was appalled because seriously, what could be more exciting than a trip with the Haskell household? Nothing, I tell you. AHAHA. Harassing Rebecca is so super fun. I started printing out addresses to off strip restaurants tonight. I like to try things off strip for variety. Last time we were in Vegas, we did that a lot and I found the food off strip even better than on. And Mindy recommended some places that I want to try because since she lives there, she has got to know the best places! Right, Mindy?

Life Passing Me By

**Bugsy with the flowers that Sarah bought me.

I yet again, have let a week pass by with no blogging. I swear. I need more free time and it will happen on Thursday evening, when we leave for Vegas! Whoot! Although that won't necessarily help on the blogging front, it will give me time to relax. Which I really need.

I am nursing a headache right now, ugh. We worked all day today, because since we are going out of town soon, I have to suffer working weekends beforehand. At least I got a ton of crap done today. By the time we left, I was about ready to burn out. Typing debt after debt after debt into my computer for our bankruptcy clients was getting really, really old. Aargh.

There was a HUGE storm in our area last night. Normally, I would a good thunderstorm, but this was had us in the basement temporarily. Out of nowhere, the entire backyard became black and the wind was blowing so hard, it looked like our trees were about to snap in half! We put the dogs in the basement, and watched from the living room. All the sudden, we saw Kory and Britton pull up the driveway and run in the door. They had been eating dinner and left about when the storm hit. On the way home, they saw two trees fall over. We all stood in the backyard and watched the lightning and listened to the rain, and finally, it stopped. We decided to take a drive and survey the area, and saw a bunch of downed branches, a few trees, etc. On the way to work today, we saw a downed traffic light, which I have never seen happen before. Pretty crazy.

I got package on Friday from Origins. They had a deal on some products, and I was in need of my favorite body scrub I ran out of some time ago, so I placed an order. The new shampoo and conditioner I got, I used today and I love! It smells amazing and my hair still smells like the product! Which is incredible, because usually the scent of shampoos does not last all day and night and through a workout! Anyway, I highly recommend the items. Oh, and I got a free sample of this lotion that is really nice too. Don't know if I would purchase it ever because mushrooms kinda freak me out, but the product itself is very moisturizing and smells not like mushrooms, LOL.

I never wrote about it, but Kendra (Kory's sister and my niece) was here last weekend, and it was really nice to see her. We took her to Pete's Garage one night, and Dolce Vita for sushi the next night. Went shopping on Saturday in Ann Arbor, and I got a nice pair of jeans from The Limited and a cute dress grey t-shirt. Love that store, and love how their pants come in long. :). Also got my eyebrows waxed, which I desperately needed and never have time to get done.

Wednesday night, I went and got my hair done in Royal Oak at Alex Emilio's. Got about an inch cut off and new highlights, and then had dinner and ice cream with Rebecca. We had sushi at Katana and it was sooooo good. I love that place. I also had miso soup, which is amazing there. I am picky about my miso.

Thursday night was long, had a board meeting that started at 4 and did not end until after 10 PM. There was a lot of things going on and decisions being made, which took some time. But, I was really pleased with the decisions made by the board and the direction we are going in on many of the issues. I am still second guessing myself (not really) on the whole VP thing, because the guy that lost is still driving everyone nuts. It's like he is never going to let anyone live down that he did not get his way. It's ridiculous, seriously. His personality is like night and day, from before the vote until after the vote for officers. He was best friends with one guy before the vote, and now he won't even talk to him. And he continues to cause scenes during meetings and in other ways. I have finally decided that I am done trying to be super nice and get the guy to relax. If I need to say something, I am going to say it, whatever the outcome. Which I did at one point that night when I thought something he did was totally unreasonable. I just don't get people.

Watched a documentary on Waco last night with Kurt, Kory and Britton. It was pretty good, but I was exhausted and missed parts of it through my napping. Kurt highly recommends it though, and said it is really eye opening to how wrong the government acted through all of that.

Anyway, off to bed to prepare for another day of work tomorrow. Hope everyone else is having a work free weekend! :).

Heather's Blog Challenge #20

So, I know, I know. I don't really keep up with these. But I am going to do #20 now, since I have a free moment.

Lori's Favorite Things (that one can purchase)

Pantene Pro-V Light Detangling Mist: I use this product every day after showering on my hair. I have very tangly hair and this product helps make it easy to brush/comb thru after showering.

Lancome Bi-Facil: What I use to remove eye make-up at night. My eyes are kinda sensitive, and this does not bother them at all. Buy it on eBay to save money.

Origins Ginger Up Shampoo: I am a sucker for shampoos and conditioners that smell yummy. I could list about 100 that I like, but this is one of my favs.

Philosophy Products: I pretty much love every product in this line. If you bought me ANYTHING Philosophy as a gift, I would be super, super excited, LOL. I have not used any product in this line that I have not loved.

Perfume by Fresh: I am obsessed with perfumes. I am extremely embarassed to say that I have about 40 in my bathroom. I am proud to say that *most* of them were bought on sale/clearance/eBay, but still......Anyway, the best line, by far, which I discovered at Sephora, is Fresh. My current favorite is Fresh Sake, but I also love the Index line, and my fav from that line is Bergamot Citrus. Everyone I know who has tried these scents has LOVED them. They rock. Next on my wish list is Herperides.

Propel Water: My fav is Grape, followed closely by Black Cherry. Yum. Perfect workout enhancer.

Midori: I don't drink much, but when I do have a drink, this is by far by drink of choice. I enjoy it mixed with Diet Rock Star, Sugar Free Red Bull and if those are not around, Diet Sprite.

Origins Paradise Found: This is pretty much the best body scrub ever. Speaking of which, I need to order more as I am out! :).

Lancome Photogenic Foundation: I have used this for years now, and love it.

Rosebud Strawberry Lip Balm: Perfect chapstick.

Nars Lip Gloss: Small package and expensive, but by far, the best lip gloss. And the names are hilarious. Orgasm is their best seller, hehe.

Victoria's Secret Very Sexy Panties: I recently moved on from the 5 for $25 collection at Vicky's to the Very Sexy Collection and I freaking LOVE them. Comfy and gorgeous.

Under Armour Sports Bras: For all my working out needs.

Puma tennis shoes: I am obsessed. Almost any pair I see, I will like, LOL.
Almay Intense I-Color: These three way sets are awesome. Easy to use, and really bring out your eye color.

Love Spell Lotion and Body Spray: Someone gave me this as a gift last Xmas, and I have been in love ever since. Thanks again, Megan!

I think I will leave off there, since I have listed so much stuff already.....I really enjoyed reading everyone else's entries! :).

Before and After--Little Bit Late

I never posted pics of the before and after of the wetbar in the living room, and since nothing else is going on exciting in the household, I will do that right now! :).

Before Pic: Kory built the shelves which are in the before picture. Before that, I had noplace to put all my glassware and such and some was sitting on the wetbar and some stored in a china cabinet. You can also see the start of Kurt tearing out the linoleum border that the guy had in there. Linoleum=bad. We hate linoleum.

After Picture. Added venetian marble behind the sink and under the shelving, adding shelving, and moved all my glassware to the shelves. It made a world of a difference. Also, added vase and flowers that Sarah sent me. note to self. Buy more fresh flowers, as the ones Sarah bought me are about dead. :). Thanks again Sarah!

So, work was pretty uneventful today. Got some paperwork done, got hired on a couple new divorces and such. Made an appointment to get my hair done next week. It really needs to be trimmed, but for some reason, my highlights are actually still looking OK. I think because my hair naturally lightens up in the summer from the sun. Found out Kendra is coming to visit tomorrow night until Saturday night, so will be pretty busy doing stuff with her the remainder of my nights this week. May schedule a spa night with her, I desperately need a pedicure and a massage sounds nice about now as well. :).

Excited

**Carolyn, the next St. Pauli's Girl.....hehe. She LOVED this picture.....

So, I rented the car for Vegas today. It actually seems more real that I am getting away, now that stuff is getting reserved. I used a coupon from the Entertainment Book and saved $45! What a deal! We are getting a convertible from Alamo. We only get convertibles in Vegas, they are so much fun to drive the Strip with. Hopefully we get a PT Cruiser again, they are a lot of fun. I need to start researching places to eat and write them down. I always try to find kewl, offstrip places to eat at while we are there.

So, more with the shopping. I went on Sunday to Old Navy to replace my flip flops....I have had the same pair of black Old Navy flip flops forever, and I freaking swear by them. They cost all of $2.50, but they are the most durable, comfy flip flops in life. Anyway. Mine are about dead, so I purchased two new pairs, one in black and one in white. While there, tried on a really cute jean skirt that I got, as well as some t-shirts on sale. Also bought the pugs a new walrus toy that they are in love with.

The office was insane today. People were driving me crazy. Sometimes I want to say to people "LISTEN. I am not going to harass others simply because you harass me." We have one client who stopped in on Friday afternoon, wanted me to make a phone call. Which I did. While she was there. I got a hold of the atty, but he had to place another call to a company to get the info I needed for my client. She was not happy with that, wanted her info right then. Anyway. That was 445 PM on Friday. She then stopped in AGAIN on Monday morning at 1000 AM and wanted me to call the lawyer AGAIN. I was like "No, I am not going to harass him, he will call me back when he has the info." It was totally like she did not comprehend this, and truly wanted me to call. I refused. Of course, the lawyer called me back a couple hours later, gave me the info she wanted and I called her with it. Why can't people just let me do my freaking job? Every call then comes though, that I have to answer is another minute of the day that I can't work on people's files, documents, whatever. And then people bitch when their work is not done instantaneously.

We have one divorce today that amused me. For the entire case, the cheap ass husband has not gotten a lawyer. Tried to *settle* the case with his wife, and literally drove us up the wall. Even though it is a long term marriage and he makes 4 times what she does, he does not think she is entitled to anything. In fact, she is entitled to half his pension, spousal support, child support, etc. The case was mediated and got NOWHERE because the guy did not have a lawyer there with him to teach him REASON. Anyway, FINALLY, at the final hour, he gets a lawyer. A personal injury lawyer. OK. This is a complex family law case, and you hire a personal injury lawyer? Never heard of this guy before. He calls Kurt up, and proceeds to (LOL) tell Kurt that he is reasonable and tries to tell Kurt how the Judge will rule in the case. Kurt found this amusing because we have a Judge who is not predictable whatsoever. And since Kurt is in court almost every day and knows all the lawyers in family law down there, and has never heard of this guy, we are fairly sure he is not in front of this Judge on a regular basis. Especially from his comments about *knowing* what the Judge will rule. It was amusing, to say the least. Sometimes, lawyers who are older than we are will attempt to bully us, which does not work. I find it hilarious though. They think we don't know what we are doing, because they have been practicing longer than us. Yea, maybe longer, but we do so many cases a year, we actually have MORE experience. But they don't know that until they see what happens when they are against us in court.

Oh, and we got some really, really juicy stuff on one of our cases today. Kurt cannot wait until Friday to present it to the Judge (we have a hearing in the case). This will be one for the Haskell law record books, I think. Some stories we tell again and again, and I believe this will be one of 'em. On par with the atty who drafted a Motion and attached a picture of a webcam penis pic to it; or perhaps the time our client held up panties in court of his wife's lesbian lover.......This may be even better, but I will have to wait and see if the info is brought up or not. There is a total arrogant atty on the other side of the case who thinks he knows everything (even though he continually loses on this case), so it will be super fun to see how he explains this ........

Movie Review--Zodiac

Kurt wanted me to rent the movie Zodiac from Netflix. Kurt rarely wants to watch movies, so I ordered it immediately. :). So, it came in the mail on Friday, and we watched it finally last night. So good. Kurt has watched several crime documentaries on the serial killer, and he thought the movie was very true to life from what he has researched and watched on the subject. The movie freaked me out, but not in a gruesome kinda way. I was very glad it was not a gory flick, because those are not my thing. Long movie, but I thought most parts were important to the overall plot of the movie. Loved Robert Downey Jr., but then again, I always do.....

Anyway, highly recommend renting if you have not seen it.

Shopping Gods Smiled Upon Me

**Pic above is of me, my Mom, and Maga (my Mom's Mom).

So. This week was so odd. Thursday, I am sitting at work, feeling kinda out of it. As afternoon approaches, I feel like I am burning up. I put my hand to my forward, back of my neck and I feel really, really hot. I am also feeling kinda dizzy and out of it. Kurt is at court, and I am at the office alone, so I continue working, but can barely focus. Kurt finally gets back, and I tell him I am going to lie down for a second, after he feels my head and confirms I feel really warm. I do so. Proceed to alternate between working and lying down for the remainder of the day. Had a board meeting that night and call in saying I don't think I will make it, but will try. I proceed to pass out the entire ride home. Wake up to Kurt helping me into the house. Take my temp--102. Lie down on couch with blanket, shivering. Two pugs proceed to jump on couch and cuddle and I pass out until around 10 p.m. Get up, take temp, STILL 102. Go to bed. Feel fever break in the middle of the night and JOY--get a headache. But am glad fever is gone. So strange. No other symptoms or anything, but this odd fever. Ideas anyone? The next day, Friday, I was really worn out and felt like I had a slight fever again that afternoon. Today, woke up with a headache, but proceeded with me day and finally, late afternoon, feel like myself again. I don't get up, but whatever. It would be nice if I could actually take time off when I get sick like that, like most of society can. Con #456 of being self employed--Can't call in sick to work. :).

Today was fun. Had lunch with Hollie and Becca at Red Lobster in Southgate. Bec is leaving for Michigan State soon (she is going there junior and senior years of college), and we wanted one last lunch before she left. After that, i headed to the mall to try and get some summery skirts and shirts for our Vegas trip over Labor Day. Did I mention that yet? We are going to Vegas over Labor Day, and Kory and Rebecca are coming too! Rebecca has never been, so it should be super fun. I can't wait. We rented a condo (timeshare kinda thing) I found on eBay, it's kinda like an apartment. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, etc. Spacious so we are not all over eachother like we would be in a hotel room. I like my space. :). Anyway. Hit the freaking jackpot at NY & Co. Had a coupon (25% off). Pretty much everything I tried on I liked. I was actually HOPING I would not like something it was so bad. Found 5 skirts, 7 tops (including tanks and tees), a dress and two pairs of sunglasses. Got all this for $137.00. Not kidding. Regular price before sales and coupons? $370.00. I am the BEST bargain finder in life. Most of the skirts were regular price $40 marked down to $8.00. And bonus, I can wear them to work too. Went to Men's Warehouse next to buy Kurt two new suits. Found an awesome Donna Karan one marked down from $700.00 to $199.00. I think the shopping Gods were smiling on me today.

Here are links to some of the stuff I got, although I could not find it all on the site:

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod110008

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod150026

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod160074

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod190072 (two)

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod160108

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod60028

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod160012

http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod160011

Oh, and I am done with the wedding pics (mostly). I think I have most of them uploaded, so if you wanna check them out, click here.

Rock on

Brides can have fun too, see?

**My sister, post ceremony at her wedding, 08/2007.

Still Working

Still working on the pics, but should be done by later tonight and will send link out to all you want and also post here. This is another fav of mine.....This is my Mom, sister and me.

Love Her

Pic of Me and Carolyn, my cousin, at my sister's wedding this past Saturday. Had a blast with her! :).

First Glimpse

I totally need to go workout and I took over 400 pics that need to be edited from the wedding, so the link to the photo page will be a while, but I wanted to post one quick shot from the wedding. This is one of my favs from the actual ceremony of me and my sister, Christie. Will tell the long story later, but to make it short, the wedding was beautiful and the reception was a lot of fun. Will post more later....

Short Vacay

My sister's wedding is Saturday! I went and picked up my dress today at the store (alterations were being done), and put my shoes and jewelry in the shoebox and in the car. Just need to pack the rest of my crap. Kurt and I are closing up shop tomorrow at noon and heading to Manistee. The rehearsel dinner is Friday night, then the wedding at 330 p.m. and reception thereafter. SOO many family and friends will be there, it should be pretty fun. Kurt hates Manistee, but hopefully with all the activities going on, he will be OK, LOL. I am just glad he decided to go up with me and not on Saturday, because I really did not want to drive myself all that way.

Anyway, off to do more errands and go to bed. Have a great weekend everyone!

Where to Start

It seems all my posts start out this way lately..............I seriously don't have enough hours in the day with working, working around the house, working out, having a social life....AHHH. And people think I should add a KID into this mix? Are you freaking nutty? LOL.

So, the past week has been busy. This weekend was fun and eventful. Saturday, Kurt and I worked on the house all day and got a LOT done. I actually feel like our house is kinda starting to come together. We have a wetbar in our living room that the previous owner never finished all the way. Kory built and hung shelves last week, and I moved all my glasses and such to the shelves. After doing so, I got this idea that we should tile in between the shelves and the sink/counter of the wetbar. So, Kurt and I went and I picked out this really kewl Venetian textured marble tile and we put all that up first thing Saturday. It looks awesome. Beyond gorgeous. It totally makes the entire area of the living room. Rebecca's sister bought me flowers (so freaking nice of her and unnecessary) and I pulled a vase out of my china cabinet and set it on the wetbar with the flowers and it looks amazing. I need to buy fresh flowers more often. Then we went back to Lowe's and bought a bunch more odds and ends. We are slowly changing all the light switches and plugs in the house over to chrome, so I did a bunch more of those this weekend in various rooms. I love the difference making those chrome makes in a room. Kurt also started tiling the laundry room floor, which is the last room in our house to get flooring. I picked out this really kewl terra like color for in there, and it is coming along nicely. He has to do that project in sessions, as he has to move the washer and dryer and can't do so until another part of the floor dries. We also bought new glass light covers for the two downstairs guest bathrooms. The guy before us who owned the place had these really ugly floral looking things up there, and those had to go. Yay. I can't even remember what else we did that day. Went to dinner at Pete's and then I headed to Sterling State Park up the road because some friends of mine were camping and they wanted me to come hang out, which I did. We sat around the fire gossiping (only girls there, yay) and made Smores which were super yummy.

Sunday, another day of Lowe's and working around the house. We bought spindles and posts for the upstairs staircase. Bought a door for Kurt's bathroom closet. Bought more tile for the laundry room baseboard area. Bought more switch covers. We pretty much bought Lowe's out, LOL. Kurt sent me to another Lowe's afterwards to see if we could get the rest of the stuff that we bought the first Lowe's out of. Bought a new light/fan for the guest bath. Kory put that up today and it looks AMAZING and the fan is much quieter than the old one. Also bought a new toilet paper holder and towel holder for both guest baths. Kory put those up today as well in the one bath. Bought new shower rings for Kurt's bathroom, and washed his shower curtain, put up a new liner. Kory built shelves for Kurt's bathroom closet as well as the hall closet upstairs. I keep buying really kewl hardware for all the closet doors as well, so it is all unique. I hate anything common. :).

The rest of last week was basically filled with work and a board meeting on Tuesday. I was so annoyed getting to that meeting. It was at 530, and I left the office with plenty of time. Until I hit an accident. And sat. And sat. Ugh. Finally got there, WAY late, which I felt awful about, but, what can you do.....

Anyway, off to bed, I will post more later. Too tired to think about any more details.......Took some pics this weekend that I post later as well.

Monday, Monday.....

Weekend was great. Saturday morning, slept in and Rebecca came over at 11:03 a.m. HA. Had to post that because Kory was saying that she is never on time, and I was agreeing (although I could care less if she is late, we were simply harassing her) and she walked in at 11:03 a.m. She was supposed to be over at 11, so it was funny when she was 3 minutes late. OK, maybe you had to be there. We were literally talking about her being late as she walked in, LOL. Then she proceeded to try and claim she is NEVER late and always on time, which cracked us up even more. To be fair, Rebecca is very timely. But, when she is coming to our house, we usually have nothing specific planned, so time is NOT of the essence. Harassing Rebecca is so fun. Anyway, she got there, and we decided to go have breakfast/lunch at Newport Cafe, which is my new fav little local spot. I had blueberry pancakes again, and they were awesome, AGAIN. Everyone else had different sandwiches and stuff like that. Awesome place. Then Rebecca and I headed to the mall so she could exchange the shoes I bought her for her bday (for some reason, they don't fit her right, AARGH). She returned those and tried on a couple dresses. I harassed her again, because she is one of *those* girls that literally will not try on something if it does not fit her in th size she *thinks* she should wear. She tries on this really kewl dress, that is slightly tight because it was obviously made for totally flat teenagers. She tries on the next size and still no zipper movement. Going out to get the next size was not even being mentioned by me, because I knew she would have a heart attack if she had to buy something that size and would probably not eat for a week, LOL. Seriously, I wish there was something I could do to not get girls in society to look at a number. In women's clothing, every line of clothing, the sizes run different. Some girls could wear a 2 in one line, and an 8 in another. But they will NEVER buy that 8 because "they don't wear a size 8...." LOL. If something looks good, who cares what the number is? Really. So, we went to a couple other stores, got some goods at Victoria's Secret (great sale) and bought Kurt a shirt with Zumaya on the back of it (Tigers pitcher), which he loves. We all ate at Pete's Garage after that. Oh, I almost forgot. Rebecca brought her videos for new techniques she is learning and literally kicked my ass. OK, I guess I should say "kicked my neck" because it was all neck work. Satisfying pain, I should say. My neck is always so out of wack and I love and welcome her pain. I was almost crying at some points I think. The guy on the video cracks me up, I love him. We watched it on the big screen while she worked on me, so I got to be amused AND punished. WHEEEEE. I heart Rebecca.

Sunday, we were supposed to work, but instead, I headed to the Toledo Botanican gardens for a lazy Lori photography date. Had an awesome time. That place is beyond gorgeous and I have been so busy lately, my photography has been falling to the side. Got like 111 shots that I really liked, that are posted on my Flickr page. Came home that night and Kurt and went to dinner at Red Lobster, which was nice.

Oh, and please, pray for my Bumpa (that is what I call my Grampa). He should be fine, but he was admitted to the hospital this weekend for a blood clot in his lung. He had clot before, but near his stomach, which is much less dangerous than your lung. They *think* they can treat it with drugs, but if not, they may need to operate later. Ugh. Fingers crossed.

Random Crap

So behind, so behind. I still have not posted about LAST weekend, which I promised. Apparently, I am not so great at making promises to myself.

I promise right now to type as much as I can before going to bed. Which I also need to do, but this is of utmost importance, right? :).

Had a good week, besides the working thing I have to do every day. Last night, I met up with my friend Nancy (law school Nancy). We went to Somata for pedicures, then headed to a place she wanted to show me called TV Diner. I had pasta and it was super yummy. Waitress was really nice as well. Great little place that I never noticed before in RIverview, I think. It was great to catch up with her. Wed night, I went to Mel's for a Lia Sophia jewelry party and got to see a few people that I had not seen in a while, and talk, which was nice. Bought some really kewl jewelry. Can't wait until it comes in. I usually don't like much at these tupperware, pampered chef, avon parties, but this stuff was actually really kewl and I would buy more if I went to another party.

OK, last weekend. Had dinner with Julia and Tony on Saturday night at this cute Japanese place in Livonia. I had teriyaki salmon and we all split some sushi pre-meal that was very good. I was impressed. The miso soup was great as well, and I am picky about the miso. It was awesome to catch up with them and celebrate their engagement, and by the time we left dinner, we had been there for 3.5 hours! I don't think I have ever been at a restaurant that long before. It's so weird how Julia and I are now lawyers......I remember day one of law school when I met her, and told Kurt about her. His comment was that I was going to be friends with her the rest of my life. There is like this bond you form in law school with the poeple you start off with that is different than anything else. Nobody else understands what you go through in law school except others who have been there. Anyway, it's awesome that Kurt was right and Julia is still one of my best friends, years later, post taking the bar and everything. We are two entirely different kids of people, yet so similar at the same time because of this law school bond. Anyway. Dinner was great and I can't wait until next time.

Friday night, we took the pugs to the new Petsmart in Monroe that just opened. We have never taken all three anywhere like that, so it was interesting trying to walk them at the same time since they are not really leash experts (never really on them). They did really well though and the store is super nice and modern. We did not buy anything, but I am sure I will be in there all the time when the pugs need stuff. After that, we took them to the local ice cream place and got them all baby size scoops of vanilla. they loved that too. Vito ate all of his, and part of Oscar and Gretel's that they did not finish. He is such a pig, I swear. LOL.

Sunday, we worked. Which sucked, but I did get a ton done, which was nice.

Anyway, I really should get to bed. I need to post more, but I am tired and the pugs are getting antsy because they don't understand why I am up and their Dad is in bed.

Rebecca is coming over tomorrow and we have no set plans at all. We are just going to do whatever and she talked me into (hehe) letting her practice her new massage video on me. I decided to be a friend and help her out. It's hard being me, being friends with the best massage therapist around. Seriously, she rocks. She has this mentor, Garry, who she thinks is incredible and I have to tell you, I have been massaged by both of them and I am favoring her slightly over him....She won't believe it, because she pretty much thinks he is God, but she is Goddess like herself....Love you Rebecca! :). See you tomorrow, drunk. Too bad the Tigers lost tonight.......

Hope everyone had an awesome week.

Stress Sucks

OK, I am aware I am far behind on here and totally need a post about the weekend, which I will get to, I promise. Speaking of which, I had a great weekend.

But, onto the stress.

Yesterday was crazy. I know I spoke previously on here about the upcoming school board meeting where we had to pick who was going to be pres, VP, Sec, Treasurer, etc. And committess were to be selected. That meeting was scheduled for last night. Going into it, the only position really in conflict was the VP position. Number one candidate was the guy I spoke about earlier that called and was harassing me about voting for him, and number two guy was another board member. It was going to be an annoying meeting, because Guy 1 was pretty much guaranteed to throw an absolute fit if things did not go his way, it's in his nature. Which is part of the reason maybe the position is not best suited for him. Anyway.

Yesterday morning, I get a call from the board president that he does not want to support either of them, he wants ME to get the position. I was shocked. I had not expressed interest in ANY of the positions, as I have only been on the board since October (almost a year). I asked him why he changed his mind, and he explained all his reasons for it and asked me to do it, as he wanted me to (speaking as President of the board). I was a little perplexed, really. Moreso because of GUY 1 causing so much freaking drama and me knowing I would be the one he was mad at, for the most part. So, I basically told Mr. Pres if that is what he wanted, I would do it. I want to do what is best for the board and if that is truly what he thought was best, I would do it. This is supposed to about business, and GUY 1 makes me feel like I am in junior high again with the drama. So, before doing anything, I wanted to know if I had any chance whatsoever and talked to some other board members. I needed 4 votes to even have a chance (there are 7 of us). I already knew three people would hands down vote for GUY 1. I also decided to call GUY 1, because I did not want him to think I was going behind his back and trying to plot for this position, because I was totally not. At all.

The conversation:

Me: Just wanted to call and let you know what is going on, you talked to Mr. Pres, right? I did not want you to think at all that I have been out "plotting" for this position behind your back, because I was totally not. I was just approached with this today, and am only looking into it because Mr. Pres thinks it is in the best interests of the board.

Him: Yes, I talked to Ms. Pres. I don't know what he is doing here. I think he has some ulterior motive. I don't support you in your run, and I won't support you if you get the position, which I doubt you will as I don't think you have much support. I also don't think you know enough about the district, or are smart enough to handle the position. I don't think you are "ready."

**some other very unfriendly things were said here as well, I think I was kinda tuning him out at that point and can't recall.

Me: Well, that's your opinion. And maybe I will get no votes, who knows. I just wanted to make sure that this was not going to harm our friendship outside the board. I will have no hard feelings whatsoever if you win, and will support you as VP if you do win.

Him: So, you will accept the nomination?

Me: Yes, if Mr. Pres thinks it is in the best interest of the board.

Him: I can't believe that. (Goes on to again tell him I can't do the position).

**he then has another call beeping in and lets me go.

It's funny, because during this conversation, his comments did not even bother me, because this guy just is like that. He says things like this, not even realizing how stupid they are. To say to me that I am not "smart" enough for the position is completely and totally retarded. I could have said a lot back, but I chose not to, and will still choose not to, because I refuse to bash anyone like he is choosing to do. This position is basically a title, and that's it. The only thing the VP really does, on top of being a board member and voting, is sit in for the pres if he is not at a meeting. If anything, the other positions on the board have more power than VP. The Secretary signs a lot of documents, the treasurer deals with the schools money, the Pres talks to the Press, etc. He simply wanted this position because he is trying to line himself up to be the next President if the Pres does not run for reelection next term. Which, I have no desire to be the President. I did not do this for that.

Anyway, constant phone calls later from Mr. Pres, Guy 2, etc. and I was off to the meeting. Stressed. I did not eat all day from being busy (and not hungry) and realized I was starving, so I met Mr. Pres and the Superintendent for a quick bite to eat. It was seriously the best grilled cheese sandwich I have ever eaten. With rice. I think dinner calmed everyone down slightly, and I was kinda worried about Mr. Pres because he was totally stressed by all of this.

After dinner, drove to the meeting, and walked in briefly to use the bathroom before making a phone call. Walk in with Mr. Pres and GUY 1 is sitting in the hallway and immediately starts verbally attacking Mr. Pres. I could not even understand what he was saying, he was so angry. Pretty much every other word was him swearing. I walked into the restroom and out to this still going on. So, I walked outside to call Kurt and my Mom. Walked back in shortly after that and things appeared to have calmed down. Sat and talked to the new board member in the hallway for a bit and GUY 1 actually sat there with us (not saying anything, but not avoiding me really either). He basically thinks Mr. Pres is a "traitor" because they have been friends for 30 years, they have family members who date, yada yada. Which as you and I know, has absolutely nothing to do with who would be best for a position, but try explaining that to someone that is on a rampage.

So, the meeting starts. I am so uncomfortable. The voting is all open, and I was dreading it. We started out with some other business, then moved to voting for the Pres. Mr. Pres got the position again, no opposition. Then VP. GUY 1 is immediately nominated and it is seconded. There is a pause, and then I am nominated and seconded. So, they go around to each board member and vote, and I win....4-3. Aargh. Then all other positions and committees are chosen. I got on the committees I wanted as well, which is kewl. Anyway, as the meeting is closing up, GUY 1 is obviously still peeved and starts packing his stuff up before the meeting is even over. He was invited for dinner/drinks and his response is "I am only here for the kids..." Umm, he comes for drinks every other night. Childish, I tell ya.

So, it's over with. It's like a hollow victory, as I did not want the position in the first place. I am happy, and honored actually, to do it, but, at the same time, having someone else so angry always sucks. Oh well.

I am thankful to no longer be stressed. Sigh.

I Can Title Posts Again!

Yay! I am so psyched to be able to post titles again! Woo hoo!

OK, enough of that. It's sad I get excited by something as lame as a title on a post. :).

Last night was fun. Auntie came over because she wanted to go to Elder Beerman to look for a wedding gift for someone, and she brought me some new plants for the yard that she had dug up in her yard. I need to figure out where I am putting them. She found her wedding gifts, and I ended up getting some cute drinking glasses on clearance for $11! For 10 of them. They are glass, really retro, really ME. And I needed some glasses, we are kinda lacking in that department since most of our household only drinks liquids out of cans or bottles. Went to dinner afterwards at this place called Skyline Chili that Kory recommended. It was OK. I had a baked potato because I was not that hungry. It's kinda a meat eaters place. They have some veggie options, but none of them were appealing to me. I think the heat is making me less hungry. I will *feel* hungry, but when I go to eat, nothing tastes good. It's odd.

Oh, this was funny yesterday. I got a call, and I am going to kinda change the facts here, because I have no idea who reads this blog and who does not. Next week, the school board I am on has to pick it's new positions on the board (Pres, VP, Sec, Treas), etc. Well, a particular person on the board has called me several times asking for my support for him for a position. I have not even really thought about this too much. We have a budget to balance and all this other IMPORTANT stuff going on, and I don't really care about titles right now. So, I told him that much. I would like to wait until our meeting, hear what everyone has to say, and make my decision. This is what is said to me, which cracked me up (and will crack you up to if you know me at all). "Well, you need to make a decision NOW." I am seriously laughing reading this. I don't do well with being told what to do (unless I am in court and a Judge is telling me so, then I am on it). If anything, calling and demanding that I do something is going to have a negative effect on the situation because nobody is going to DEMAND that I do anything. I think my response was "Umm, no I don't, I will keep your words in mind and make a decision on Monday. Nobody is going to call me and tell me what I need to do or not do." It backed him off a little bit, but I think he is a little peeved I won't make a decision. Oh well. I will make a decision when I am good and ready and the people who are not hounding me probably have a better chance than he does. And hello, my office is crazy. Calling me at work during a busy day and pressuring me to make decisions is just going to drive be bonkers. Being at my office is not relaxing and not a time I want to make decisions about nonwork related issues.

I guess we will see what happens on Monday.

Need to work now, later.