International Pancake Day Hall of Fame!!!

Okay, for those of you not from Liberal...we have the International Pancake Day race every year in February. I'm not going to go into the history or explanation of it...but they finally got a house at the end of the race line..and turned it into the Pancake Day Hall of Fame. My dad is on the board and since he's retired, is the guy in charge of giving tours. He sits down there several days a week and will give tours to others that call. Anyway, they have a new website that is awesome and the link at the bottom of this bulletin is to the page with a pic of my super cute pops!

Just wanted to share! So those that will be home for the holidays, if you haven't been down to check it out...you really should plan to do so. It's really neat and provides a lot of memorbilia and history for our event and the town of Liberal!

Side note- While I was home for Thanksgiving, I went down there with my dad and ended up getting the coolest candle ever from them. It has the pancake day logo on the jar and is made of soy...so it last longer AND get this...you can dip your fingers in it for a parafin wax treatment! How cool is that?! Oh and it smells like maple syrup and is to die for. I think they are like $12, but it so worth it. Would be a great stocking stuffer. They also have cheap t-shirts, postcards, caps, mugs, magnets, snowglobes, the International Pancake Day Pancake Batter Mix, etc...but the candle rocks!Okay, I'm done pimping Liberal, Pancake Day, the candle, and my dear old dad! ha Check out the website and go take a tour!Have a good one!!

Click this link to see my cute dad, the magnificent tour guide!

Click here for the Pancake Day home page !

Oh and did I mention that my non athletic butt has run in this race twice?! I'm so not a runner, but it was fun...and the 2nd year...I wasn't even dead last! LMAO!

Thanksgiving

(I actually wrote this a week ago..but had not posted because I was going to add a pic of my Christmas tree...but I still haven't taken one, so here's the post sans tree pic!)


It was a insanely intense and crazy busy weekend, well actually 2 months really. And this weekend left me really frustrated, sad, and worried. So, today I finished putting up my Christmas tree to try and raise my spirits. I think it's absolutley beautiful! My friend, Marcy, made the bow on top for me and my sister, Amy, loaned me some of her white feather boas! SASSY!!



And now, to remind myself how wonderful life is and that God is good, I'm going to list the top 10 things I'm thankful for!



1. My family

2. My friends

3. Gabby and Josie

4. Church

5. My job (frustrating as it can be)

6. The fact that I own a nice home and do not have to worry about a place to live, food to eat, or clothes to keep my warm.

7. That we haven't had any snow yet, let alone enough to trap me in!

8. Jalapenos

9. Kind strangers

10. Cross Canadian Ragweed



Yep. I feel a bit better. Now for some hot chocolate and then sleep. Surely that should do the trick!

A quick review of the year (stole it from RR).

January:

1. Who kissed you on new years?
No one..that I remember. I may have had a few too many drinks.

2. Did you have a new year's resolution this year?
Yes. To give more, complain less, and to convince my mom to drop the "marriage and grandkids" obsession. I think I only succeeded at the first one.

3. Does it snow where you live?
Too much. WAY too much.

4. Do you like hot chocolate?Yes...but only if I can have a few marshmellows or some peppermint or cinnimon schnaaps with it!

5. Have you loved someone?
In this lifetime...of course. 2007...not so much.

FEBRUARY:

1.Who was your valentine?
Ummm..this quiz is starting to depress me already.

2. When you were little did you buy Valentine's for the whole class?
Of course...and I made the most glittery little valentine box to take to school for mine also! Wish kids still did that. That was fun. Maybe I'll make one next year.

3. Do you care if the ground hog sees its shadow or not?
I never pay attention to that. Ground hogs are nasty.

MARCH:

1. Are you Irish?
Think mostly German.

2.Do you like corned beef and cabbage?
I do like cabbage.

3. What did you do for St. Patty's Day in 2007?
Had a BBQ, wore a green feather boa, walked down main street in the middle of the night with Januea and a random dog that found us, and fell out of a pickup truck in my driveway. It was a night to remember!

4. Are you happy when winter is pretty much over?
I love winter, but this past year it dragged on a bit too long. Enough with the snow already!

APRIL:

1. Do you like the rain?
No..it's gloomy and makes me gloomy too.

2. Did you play an April Fools joke on anyone this year?
I don't remember.

3. Do you get tons of candy on Easter?
The Easter Bunny doesn't come to my house.

4. Do you love the month of april?
Not anymore. That's the month of my major fundraiser and it's super stressful.

May:

1. What is your favorite type of flowers?
tulips

2. Finish the phrase "April showers...":
Bring May flowers

3. Do you celebrate May 16th: National Piercing Day?
Never heard of it...but that's kinda fun!

4. Is May anything special to you?
Cinco de Mayo...it's one of my fave holidays!

JUNE:

1. What year did/will you graduate from high school?
sigh....1995

2. Did you do anything fun during this month?
I'm sure I did, but I don't remember them.

3. Have a favorite baseball team?
Not really. Used to love the Cardinals and the Braves growing up. I'm more obsessed with football. Go BRONCOS!

JULY:

1. What did you do on the 4th of July?
I was in Vegas drinking as many of those yard drinks as I could, being kissed my a random stranger, and try to convince Joy and Shavaun that we should go see Lionel Richie in concert. "Say you, say me...say it forever...that's the way it should be!"

2. Did you go to the fireworks?
We actually flew in to Vegas on the 4th...so we saw some as we drove to the airport and then as we walked from place to place.

3. Do you blast the A/C all day?
Wanted to in Vegas...it was 116 degrees in Vegas!

4. Whats your favorite part of July?
Probably the 4th. It's almost always a good time.

AUGUST:

1. Did you do anything special at the end of your summer?
I experienced the fair here (they have their own rides- and I was even asked to run one! NICE!!), celebrated my 30th b-day in true Super Sarah fashion, and enjoyed my hot tub.

2. What was your favorite summer memory of '07?
Visiting my nephew in Dallas, Vegas, my bday with all my friends here, and making plans for next summer!

OCTOBER:

1. What was your last Halloween costume?
Cowgirl.

2. What is your favorite candy?
SPK

3. What was your favorite thing about this month?
That it was over. It was a very BUSY month!

November:

1. Whose house do you go to for Thanksgiving?
Depends on the year...usually my parents. This year..the high school cafeteria in Coldwater, KS. Thank you Grandpa. (Nah, it's not that bad. We're related to a good portion of the people that show up anyway, and the food isn't actually high school food...people cook it and just bring it there for the community dinner. It's still kind of odd though.)

2. What are you thankful for?
My family, friends, dogs, and the fact that I have a job, a home, and am an independent woman.

3. Do you love stuffing?
usually, sometimes people put some random shit in there though!

4. Best part of this month?
Football! Football! and Football! oh and Thanksgiving and spending time with the fam.

December:

1. Do you celebrate Christmas?
Of course. My mom is insane over the top. Trust me...we CELEBRATE Christmas!

2. Have you ever been kissed under the mistletoe?
yep

3. Get anything special last year?
a nephew! (okay so that was really in October, but still....) and the flu

4. What do you want this year?
I would say quickbooks for my computer, a beagle puppy, and no one to be sick this year (Last year there were about 9 of us with the flu!) My mother probably hopes Santa will bring me a husband, because remember, I failed at New Years resolution 3!

5. Do u like cold weather?
Yep, but don't like snow that stays in my yard for 3-4 months!

6. What are you most excited about this Christmas?
I'll be home for like 10 days, will spend time with family and friends, will get to spoil my nephew, and will get lots of sleep!

So, I already told you I stole this from Robin...but I think she's retarded because there is no September on this quiz. Perhaps she forgot the 9th month of the year?!

Go white girl, Go white girl, GO!

I've always claimed I've got mad skills on the dance floor. I can shake my money maker with the best of em. I can do one of the best "Running Man, Sprinkler, Cabbage Patch, Roger Rabbit, Lawn Mower, Shoulder Dance" mixes you've ever seen! (Now if only I could master the Harlem Shake I'd be a happy girl!)
This past Friday, we had our annual Halloween Dance for the kids in our program and for the community. It was a blast. There were a lot more kids there this year, a lot more parents, and a lot more community members that came to see the kids costumes. We even had part of the local "line-dancing" club come and cut a rug all night long! (Seriously, who knew there were THAT MANY line dances? And who knew you could find one for any kind of music?)
Anyway, I tried to get the kids started dancing, you know break the ice. So obviously when Mony Mony came on...I had to start singing and dancing to encourage the group of kids I was standing with to do the same. You should have seen the look of horror on their faces! Their eyes got huge, their cheeks red, and they all VERY quickly walked away from me. Not one to embarrass easily...I just laughed, said, OH COME ON! This is a classic! ..and kept dancing....by myself, with the adults and kids trying not laugh at me. A few songs later, the kids were over the shock and were all dancing. Then, no matter where I tried to sneak off to and hide...they kept finding me and making me dance. Yep, I had to do the Chicken dance, the Macarena, the Electric slide, and few I had never seen. The apparent fave these days is"Soldier Boy"...as they requested it numerous times and made me attempt to learn the dance every time. Talk about embarrassing. I gave up on that one. Also had to give up on the one that kept making you go as "low as you could go"...because I'm apparently too old and arthritic and had difficulties getting back up! Which again, they thought was hilarious.
Whatever! All I know is, I had fun, the kids had fun, and I'm sure the adults had a blast laughing at me too. BUT, I went to the junior high to eat with a young girl yesterday, and at recess (since when do they get recess in junior high???) I was the "cool kid" by far! YES! FINALLY! Now I can finally say I've made it! And, I'm convinced, it's all because of ...you guessed it...my mad skills on the dance floor!
So next time you see me..watch out! I might call you out for a dance off! Trust me, I've done it before..in downtown Denver! And I so rocked it too! =)

A source of joy and sadness...

The 2 cutest family members!


The birthday boy enjoying his first cake!


This past Thursday was my beloved little nephew's 1st birthday! So Thursday, I drove to Denver and then flew to Dallas for the weekend. My parents arrived the next day to help celebrate. We all don't get to see him or his parents near often enough, so we were kind of ridiculous with Adam. As soon as someone put him down, another one of us was there to pick him back up and enjoy him as much as possible. I mean, seriously, have you looked at my photos of him?? He is the cutest little guy I've ever seen in my life!

He is starting to walk and says a few words. He is a very happy little guy, always smiling and has the most hilarious laugh I've ever heard. At times you kind of wonder if he's hyperventilating!

As much as I love him and even wanted to bring him home with me...seeing him AND leaving him makes me so very sad. Most young girls grow up dreaming about their wedding day and how perfect it will be. Not me. I grew up dreaming about being a mom and how wonderful the experience would be. So, here I sit...at 30 years old, with not even a hint of motherhood in my future. I begin going through my usual questions (I do this at least once a year...cause I'm a freak)..."What the hell is wrong with me?", "Why does God not think I'm ready for this part of life?", "What have I done to put myself in an eternal state of singleness and childlessness?" (okay, yes..I'm pretty sure that's not a word), and "When the hell is it going to be MY turn for something I've dreamed about my whole life?"

I know...pity party for myself in full effect. Stupid, ridiculous, embarrassing, sad...but nonetheless, true. A few years ago, I told my family that if I wasn't married by my mid 30's, I wasn't going to sit around waiting for someone else to enter my life and help make this particular dream come true. I would just adopt. The closer I get to that age...the more I want to follow through with it...yet the more I realize that financially, I don't think I will be able to do it by myself. Which not only makes me sad...it quite frankly...really ticks me off! I like being an independent person, making choices for myself, learning from the bad ones, etc. But why should I not be able to have all the things I desire in life...just because I'm frickin single! I'm so over it. And for all of you that are married, I swear to you...if you tell me how much you miss being single and how fun it was...I may never speak to you again!

So today, as I sit here thinking about this, I'm not sure which is bothering me more. The fact that I'm single and really hope to not live my entire life alone...or the fact that I may never get to be a mother. Those that know me and my family... you know it's a fun, loving, and caring family. My mother is a riot, highly entertaining, very kind, and a wonderful person. I kinda thought those were all qualities I possessed as well...which makes me think that I'd be just as spectacular of a mom as she. I just hope I get the chance someday.

Whew...sorry for the depressing post, I'll try to be back to my normal chipper self on the next one. It's just on my mind and I'm desperately already missing my little Adam. He brings a smile to face, joy to my heart, and laughter to my soul. I wish he was closer.

Fear of change

So, I take pride in the fact that I like change. I think it is important in most organizations, communities, work situations, and even personal struggles that we advocate for change to keep evolving and becoming a better person, friend, neighbor, community, world, etc. Those that are afraid of change, I feel are often not really as afraid of the outcome of that change, but of the work or struggles that making the change will bring.

Yet, I faced a silly and seriously tiny change this week that sent me into an absolute tailspin. Perhaps my lack of sleep this week, the stress I have felt, the fact that I haven't felt well, or a combo of any of these played a part in my irrational fear.

This is what happened...if you've read previous post or any of the silly surveys I've ever filled out on here before...you know by now that bran flakes and skim milk are a staple in my daily routine. I ran out this week and was forced to alter my morning ritual a couple days before I was able to make the run to Wal-Mart for a new box. When I arrived, I walked to the cereal aisle, went about halfway down and reached to the top shelf where my beloved Bran Flakes have always sat. But wait...what was this? Some other form of wannabe bran...something with oats and raisons and other frivilous additions that I don't need.or want in my cereal. Straight bran...that's all I need. There were other people in the aisle, so I tried not to look frightened or freaked out. I slowly walked the length of the aisle a couple times perusing for the new home of my bran. I didn't see it. After about the 4th trip down the aisle I started to pace much more frantically and at warp speed (yep, it almost looked like the Phoebe run again). It finally registered...this damn monopoly of a store had once again banned one of my most treasured sources of happiness (the first was the 6 pack of Dole pineapple juice in the small individual cans). So, as the panic turned to confusion and then to rage...I could not even continue shopping, as I had totally forgotten everything else I needed. All I really was there for was my Bran Flakes! So, on my dazed walk back to the front of the store I passed the clearance and discontinued stock area...and there on the bottom shelf...you guessed it...sat my cereal. Without hestitating, or being concerned that I looked like a lunatic, or that people undoubtedly thought I was a maniac...I shoved all 7 boxes that were left into my little cart.

As I walked to my car after checking out, and feeling a huge sigh of relief that I now had plenty of bran flakes to last me awhile...the thought struck....What the hell am I gonna do when those 7 boxes are gone?! So I called my dad to ask him that exact question and tell him that was the final straw in my crappy week. He laughed hysterically and told me he didn't think I should worry about it, as 7 boxes should last awhile. Perhaps dad, but then what? WHAT WILL I DO THEN?! There are no other bran flakes that compare. They all are corn flakes or frosted flakes or have too many other things added in. I enjoyed the simplicity of my bowl of bran.

My next fear is this...and I have yet to bring myself to look it up and confirm it to be true or false...Has WM really just decided to quit selling it...or has Post actually quit making it?! I cannot fathom the idea or bear the heartbreak it will bring me.

Why, I ask...is this tiny little change in my life causing such a disruption? How much therapy do I REALLY need? What will WM ruin for me next? What will my friends and family make fun of me for, if not the bran? (Wait...stop...don't answer that!).

So I guess if you are out grocery shopping and come across the beautiful orange box of my spectacular Post Bran Flakes...feel free to buy a box and send it to me. Who knows when my 7 boxes will be gone...or what depressive or manic state in could send me into!!

At what age are you too old to pee your pants?!

So most of you that know me well, KNOW that I do not do scary movies. Never have...I'm just not good at them. I scream, I jump, and I have nightmares for weeks! You probably also know my 1 rule about watching a scary movie. If you somehow convince me to watch one with you, the rule is I get to not only sleep in your house for the next few nights (until I feel the Boogieman has moved on)...but in your room... in your bed...so that if the boogie man comes to get me, maybe he'll get you first!

I realize I'm 30 now, and should have outgrown this, but I'm a freak. I'm not afraid of the dark, most bugs, or even living by myself...but everyone else their weakness, right?! Some of my dear friends have doubted me and my simple little rule...until they made me watch a scary movie! I mean, I'm the dork that for an entire summer as a child, had a reoccuring nightmare that the Incredible Hulk was chasing me!

Anyway, last night, I went for a walk and stopped by my friend Joy's house on the way home, to pick up some new dog food for my pooches to try. Joy and some others were getting ready to watch a scary movie. I don't know what the hell I was thinking, but I decided to stay and join them. Of course, I screamed a couple times, hid behind a pillow, jumped, and had my heart racing through most of the movie. I don't even know the name of the movie, but it was scary! I am not just over-reacting here...it was really SCARY people!! So about halfway through the movie I realize...Holy shit! I WALKED over here! I'm gonna have to walk home...in the dark...with all the evil and scary creatures waiting to get me! (It's completely irrelevant that it's only about 4 blocks! It was DARK out there and the only thing I had to defend myself were the tiny fragments of karate class I could remember and my little ziploc bag of dog food!) So when the time came to leave, another friend offered me a ride...but I decided I didn't want to look like a big baby...so I said I thought I could make it. About halfway home, I wanted to call him and say, "I LIED! COME BACK AND GET ME!! THERE ARE TOO MANY SCARY NOISES AND SHADOWS OUT HERE! I THINK I'M GONNA DIE!!" I also wanted to run frantically, borrowing the Phoebe run all the way home...you know, to help ward of any stranger danger!

So I made it home hyperventilating just a touch, and then had to go through my house turning every light on to make sure there was no one lurking in the darkness...since I had left the front door unlocked. I let the dogs in, double checked the locks, double checked all the rooms, made my way downstairs to my bedroom, and made my dogs sleep next to me all night.

I'm happy to announce, I'm still alive this morning. There were no heinous crimes or strange mishaps overnight and the Boogieman went to someone elses house. Whew...I hope he stays there tonight too!

Please, don't ask me to watch a scary movie anytime soon. I think I've had my fill for another year or so!

Oh...what the heck..why not?!

So, I've decided (probably because of all the meds I'm on and the lack of sleep in my world) that I am insanely hilarious and should start writing books- so that the world can bask in my humor, laugh until they pee, and think I'm a comedic genius.

Here are some book topics I'm considering:

1. The things in this world that annoy me, really tick me off, and why.
2. Farts and poop. (I'll dedicate this one to my cousin Steve...he's obsessed with poop).
3. Family dysfunctionalism and why it's spectacular (and yes, I fully intend to make up my own verbage...get used to it!)
4. All the fun things you can do with snow!
5. The reasons staying single and irritating your mom are way more fun than actually dating, getting married, and having kids.
6. Why calorie counting is gay and I think people should all just go on a brownie and spaghetti diet.
7. Jalapenos.
8. The term wheel barrow and why it is so odd.
9. Reasons everyone should own a feather boa.
10. My autobiography, cause let's face it...my world is way funnier than a lot of people's. I'm a freak...that's why you're my friend!

American Idol didn't pick me, maybe Goodland will?!

HA! Goodland has it's annual Flatlander Festival this month. This year they have added a talent show to the schedule of events. You KNOW my goofy ass is gonna participate. It's what I do!

So I went and got the application form, and was suprised to see that each act is to perform for 15 minutes! WHAT?! I've never been in any talent contest that did this. Usually it's one song and you're done. I think this is odd for a couple reasons. One...I'm not a band, I'm just a small town girl that likes to sing and make an ass outta myself. I'm not gonna play the guitar or piano while I sing...just use background music. I could understand the 15 minute thing if it was a band. It's work to set up their equipment just to do one song! The other reason I find this odd...is what if there are acts that are not music? Perhaps a dancer or dance group, a comedian, or even a dramatic solo. For those people 15 minutes is a LONG ASS time! Don't get me wrong...I think I'm brilliant and can certainly entertain the masses for 15 minutes...Shit...I could go for hours! ha I just wasn't expecting it. Guess the good people of this town will just get to revel in my genius a bit longer!

SO...now I have to determine what I will sing. A good majority of you have probably heard and seen me sing somewhere. Think back to what you've heard and tell me what songs I should do. 15 minutes....means probably 4-5 songs. Although I have rapped on numerous occasions, I will not be blessing this audience with any of those skills. I busted that out at the bday bash. (Vanilla Ice)..and I think Goodland is good for at least another year! So, I'm thinking for this town, mostly country...and I'm thinking older country. Also thinking mostly upbeat fast songs...because part of the judging is on crowd participation. But I'll take any suggestions...(although Jenna, I can't really do Whitney Houston anymore...don't have the high range I once did..ha).

Anyway, vote away...I have to turn my app in by September 20th and the event is the 29th. Feel free to come and join the fun! My parents will be here to cheer for their favorite American Idol reject!

Oh yes, and for those of you that know him and the whole story, my mom thinks JP should come back to town and perform "Jesus Take the Wheel". I know for a fact that he could also include, "I love a Rainy Night", ANY Johnny Cash song, "Peaches", and "All the gold in California"...PLENTY of songs to take up 15 minutes. He says no. Big party pooper.

The Fair

So my sister, Amy (who has asked that I quit referring to her as "the older" sister, even though she is), LOVES the fair...specifically any STATE FAIR. She's obsessed, really. It's quite entertaining for others to witness though. Here are some of the reasons she can't stay away:

1. She enjoys trying ANY food that is fried: cheese, twinkies, oreos, pickles, corn, snickers, etc.
2. She really loves trying all the food that is "on a stick". (Last year she bought a shirt at the Minnesota state fair that listed all the foods you could find on a stick at the fair...and marked them off as she ate them). She's had all sorts of random foods this way.
3. She likes hanging out with her friends and walking around (to help work off the food she is consuming as she goes).
4. She loves random bizarre things, such as: butter sculptures, the world's largest pumpkin, and those cutouts that you stick your face in and take dumb pictures of!
5. She enjoys and appreciates the various concerts you can catch at a fair.

Reasons I don't like the fair:

1. The HEAT! Haven't you noticed almost NONE of the fair buildings in the world are air conditioned..even though we are living in 2007 and Willis Haviland Carrier
invented the first electrical air conditioning in 1902!!!!
2. Fried foods are bad (but I do love me some funnel cake!)
3. Food on a stick is just wrong and quite frankly...scares me.
4. Butter sculptures melt, pumpkins rot, and I don't need anymore stupid pictures of myself!
5. I do enjoy going to the concerts...but I can do that anytime of the year...preferrably either when it's cooler outside or at an INDOOR venue!!


The fair here in Goodland is quite different than that which I am used to. They do not have a carnival that comes in to town. OH NO! They have their own rides and games, because the crime rate was increasing way too much during fair week while all the carneys were in town. So they bought some seriously antiquated rides and then they beg people around town to run them and the games. Now, I already had a booth for my job, I worked 3 different days in the Kiwanis food kitchen, and then they called and asked me to do one of the kids games. I said I would for two nights. Ended up being the kid train..which is barrels hooked together and pulled behind a golf cart ...just around the fairgrounds. YES...for those of you that have been in a car with me...they asked ME to drive the kiddie train. I did not kill, mame, or even harm a single child or bystander. However, with all the different booths and the heat and working my regular job...I must admit...I'm so glad the fair is over!

Oh yeah, and 1 of the nights I did ride some rides with friends. First it was the sizzler...which I swear gave me whiplash, then the tilt-a-whirl which we couldn't get to spin much, and then the swings. I'm not sure if it's just been so long since I've rode any rides, if I'm just totally lame, or if almost being 30 is affecting me...but I almost blew chunks on the swings! My eyes were watering and I had that awful feeling working itself into my throat. I told my friend I thought I was going to puke....he laughed. I said, no really...if this ride doesn't end....I'm gonna puke. The ride ended and I went and sat on a bench while they rode some more rides. Suck! Whatever...it's over...until next year anyway!

P.S. Random fact: nacho cheese that you pump out of the machine...if you overshoot the cup and it lands on your hand...I swear it causes a 3rd degree burn. The guys in the Kiwanis booth with me thought I was being dramatic I'm sure, but then they saw the blister and that my finger was red and swollen! I didn't make anymore nachos that day! They(the nachos)are evil I'm pretty sure and I still have a huge blister that is shaped like a heart. I should take a picture and post it on here for you entertainment. NAH...that's gross.

Advice from Butzie

So while I was home this weekend, my family celebrated my 30th birthday early. The card from my parents had a list of "30 Top Pieces of Advice" my mom had written out. Thought I'd share them with you.

1. Go to church.
2. Keep daily communication with God and those you love.
3. Never eat yellow snow!
4. Don't sweat the small stuff.
5. Accept change.
6. Don't buy something for $50 and then sell it a garage sale for .50!
7. Water your grass.
8. Make your bed and the whole room looks better.
9. Check the air in your tires.
10. Never drink and drive.
11. Know when to hold 'em.
12. Know when to fold 'em.
13. Never count your money while your sitting at the table.
14. Be kind.
15. Share.
16. Clean up your own mess.
17. Help others.
18. Learn to listen.
19. Know when to walk away.
20. Know when to run.
21. Allow others to have a different opinion.
22. Always put the dogs out before you go to bed.
23. Thank others.
24. Share your artistic talents.
25. Appreciate.
26. Wear your good undies every day.
27. Accept responsibility.
28. Bloom where you're planted.
29. Eat your veggies.
30. Be patient!

I hope you all know Kenny Roger's song "The Gambler" or some of these won't have been near as funny to you!

Africa Smafrica

So my sister, Amy, is moving to Africa tomorrow. I'm not too thrilled about it. She's excited though and feels it is what she is supposed to be doing. Hmmm...

She'll be there a year, maybe 2. The maybe 2 just makes me even more "not thrilled". Sigh. I'm a bad sister and a horrible person aren't I? I should be at least a little supportive I suppose. I just don't want to be. I want her to stay in the USA and preferrably Kansas.

Anyway, if you want to know more about why she is moving there, here is her new blog she has started for this particular journey. http://rubyslipperlady.wordpress.com/

Since there is no cell phone service there, she would love to read your comments. However, to leave a comment on her blog, you have to get a username and password...but you DON'T have to start your own blog.

Maybe I'll win the lottery and can go visit? Oh, and in case you were wondering, she will not be living in a hut in a village. (I was deeply saddened by this...I think she should!) The majority of the time, she'll be living in an apartment in a city...and will only be in the small villages about 30% of the time I think. Bummer, eh?

Wacky nonsense from my Vegas Vaca

Joy, Shavaun and I headed to Vegas on the 4th of July. One of Joy's brothers, Jay, got married on 07-07-07, so we had an excuse to go. (I was supposed to go the month prior with some college friends, but couldn't get off work).

First night there, some random man kisses me and then leaves the bar with his DAD! He was pretty good looking though (the guy, not the dad!) ha How did we not get a picture of THAT?!!
This picture was about 2 mintues before the incident occurred! ha


At the pool, I accidentally mistake an 8 foot drop off for what I thought was just another step down. Then after I quit choking on all the water I swallowed and could feel my toes again after they slammed into the side of the pool...I couldn't quit laughing and almost peed my pants, which would obviously have only made matters worse...much much worse!

We went to the wax museum and of course, took a bunch of stupid pictures. Here are just a few for your enjoyment.

Shavaun and Earnhardt....I hate NASCAR!


Joy with Agassi...Shavaun is cheering from the stadium seats set up behind him! HA!


Me with Siegfried, Roy, and one of the tigers. Rrrroarrr!


Joy touching "THE ROCK". She looks so shy! We know better!


Heff...look at Joy with her hand on his knee! Too funny!

I saw 2 famous people, which of course, no one else did and then didn't believe me! ha (We saw the soap star again the next day so I had proof). Eileen Davidson was the soap star and in the airport I saw Crystal Gayle!

Some strange man tried to abduct me on Freemont Street. He just grabbed my hand and started pulling me down the street. I'm like, "Ummmm, I don't THINK SO! I took karate fool!"

After a long HOT day, I stopped to get a drink at our hotel bar. About 3 hours later as were leaving again for the evening, I realized I had no wallet. Long story short, I had indeed left it at the bar and someone had actually turned it in to security...with everything still in it. The security man thought it was a riot and made fun of me. (We stayed at the Frontier which and it was only gonna be open one more week and then they will tear it down...sad...it's the first place in Vegas Elvis performed!)


I was given a new nickname by one of the other gals that had come for the wedding. Apparently my hot pink high heels made me look like a hooker, which she seemed to think are all named Candy. And because they were pink, she started referring to me as Cotton Candy..and then shortened to CC. It was entertaining.


So, even though it was 116 degrees every day we were there, we had a blast! Although the next trip...will be in the frickin winter please and thank you!

OH WAIT!!!! I must not forget to tell you about the Bikini Bull Riding. We stayed at the Frontier..which has the bar Gilly's. The night we went there we finally got a table and it was right next to the mechanical bull ring. Later that evening they were trying to get girls to enter the bikini bull riding contest to win $500. Now, I have actually rode a mechanical bull and have pictures for proof...quite frankly, I rocked! ha Still, there was no way in hell you'd get my ass in any kind of swimsuit to ride a bull that a bunch of other nasty half naked hookers had just rubbed their skanky germs all over. So a bit later the first girl comes out and is wearing Gilly's hot pants, and tiny shirt. We're like oh, she must work here and is gonna get the crowd revved up. She gets on the bull, but it goes real slow and she is gyrating with it. Next thing we know all she has on is the hotpants. I turned to the other 4 women at my table and said, "I don't think she works here, and this is NOT what I thought they meant by bikini bull riding". They all laughed and agreed. There were 2 other women that attempted to outdo the first. 2 of the 3 gals were so flat chested they might have actually been men with it tucked in..I'm really not sure! The other one, must have won this a few times and used her winnings to get a boob job. They were so fake she actually could move them up and down like male body builders do. It was so NOT RIGHT! All I could do was laugh and be thankful that: there were only 3 contestants so it ended quickly, mine are real, and I don't feel the need to bare them to the world for a little cash or any other reason! God is good. Amen.

VIVA LAS VEGAS!

Why do people seem to WANT me to have a breakdown?!

Frightening as it was for me, I have now given in and had my hair done by 2 different women here in G-town. My Aunt Kathy has done my hair since I was in grade school and rocks, so this was somewhat traumatizing for me. The first woman I went to, I just needed a trim and wanted some bangs. I'm always nervous when the person doing my hair, hasn't seemed to take the time to do her own. This was such the case. Still, I let her chop away. The cut was okay, the bangs weren't quite what I had wanted, but I was too scared to ask for more to be cut off.

The next visit to a local salon, I needed highlights...desperately. It had been WAY too many months. I chose a different salon and made the appointment. I should say, both ladies were pleasant and overall kind people. This woman, however, asked more questions and conversated much more. Which led to the inevitable..."I know the perfect man I should set you up with...he's in the process of getting divorced and only has 18 million kids....but you'd be SO GREAT together!" This led to me that feeling of vomit building up in my throat. But I held it in..that would have been embarrassing. Then, as if that wasn't bad enough...as she's sectioning off my hair and applying highlights...(and please remember I just met this woman about 10 minutes previously)...she says, "Oh, you have some gray hairs!"

WHAT?! I said, "Gray hair!!!??? What? You're kidding me!!!" I think she noticed the terror in my voice and panic in my eyes. She then calmly said, "Oh, well actually it might just be really really blond hair."

My heart slowed to a more normal pace and I exhaled. "Yes. You're probably right. I'm sure that's what it is", I stated.

Then we moved on to much more normal conversation...you know, like what other men she could set me up with.

I left that salon thinking I was aging way too quickly, a loser for still being single...yet still loving that I found this hair stylist...because my hair rocked! I'll still stick with my Aunt Kathy, whenever I can get home, but if in a crunch...I know where I can go for good hair and a depressing hour of realizing I'm old, alone, and seem to be the focus of every match maker in town. sigh.....

The latest...

So let's see...I've been told I need to be blogging more often. OOPS!

Here's what's been going on in my world:

Got my hot tub on Saturday. It totally rocks my world! I LOVE IT! You should come visit soon! ha I even used it this morning after I finally got my butt out of bed!

My MRI came back normal...which is good but made me have a nervous breakdown since they STILL have no clue what's wrong with me. They started me on physical therapy and wearing a TENS unit. Haven't seen much of a change with either though. The hot tub has helped more in the 3 days I've had it than the PT and TENS. Oh well. I go back to see the neurologist on Aug. 1st for more of those painful injections and then see a THIRD rheumatologist on Septl. 12th...but I'm not bitter or anything! ha

My backyard is finally looking pretty darn good. Got grass growing in the couple spots that were bare...got stuff planted where the previous owner kept throwing all the pine needles and pine cones for 50 years...here are a couple pics:

This is the view out the back door. Pretty, isn't it?!

This is the East side of the yard, where I planted a ton of flowers, shrubs, and plants. (My mom weeded that little middle section while she was here...my flowers I planted there have bloomed and gone already...need to do something more in it I guess).

This is the patio where the hot tub is now. The table isn't there anymore, but a bar and stools. It's kinda fun. There are also lights around the top for at night. It's super cute. Go me.

I leave for Vegas on July 4th. Can't wait. Was supposed to go last month with my girls from college...but due to health issues and work, didn't get to go. So another friend was going out for her oldest brother's wedding. So I changed my flight and will be there the 4th-8th. Can't wait!

My big 30th birthday bash is getting closer! I can hardly wait! Several old college friends and some high school friends are all coming to town...from Denver, KC area, OK City, L-town, etc....plus all the Goodland folks. It's gonna be insane! Woo hoo!

My sister Amy leaves for Africa for a year next month! She has started a new blog to keep us updated of her journey. You can click on the link that says Amy in Africa or right here to see what she's up to!

Hmmm...guess that's it for now...oh wait...more pictures to share...My nephew's first time in a pool! Man I wish I would have been there to see it. Here's one of him on his way to the pool, one in the big pool and one in his baby pool at my parent's house! Too cute!

Oh...and here is some furniture my parent's are selling in case anyone needs dining room furniture:

The buffet/hutch

The table

The chairs

They will sell the table and chairs separately for $250 (there are 5 chairs, plus this one with the arms (they recovered them themselves! I think you can actually sit 8 or so at the table). Or they will sell it all together for $450. Let me know if you are interested.

Think that's should catch everyone up! Hope life is well for everyone!

Weird words, phrases, and families

So I bought a wheel barrow today. Went to Wally World yesterday for one and they didn't have any. Isn't that strange? Anyway, I found one at the lumber store today, paid way too much for it, and strangely...can't wait to use the damn thing. But what strikes me as odd is the name: wheel barrow. I don't know why, but when I say it... I feel as though I'm speaking gibberish. The barrow part always comes out wrong. It seems as though I'm making the words up. They just don't want to naturally roll off my tongue. I've noticed other words lately that have been the same. Maybe my mind is on overload and I'm overanalzing things again...but sometimes...words just seem frickin weird!

Earlier this week, my sister and I were laughing at some of the sayings our family uses...some are gross, twisted, and retarded. But they all are funny none the less. But again...they seem weird. Of course, it's no secret my family is insane...so I guess it should actually seem very natural and not weird at all.

Simply for your enjoyment and to add a bit of amusement to your day, I shall share some of these great sayings with you now. Use them often and fondly think of my granny as you do...as she is the one that taught them to us!

Okay...when someone burps, here are the appropriate responses you can choose from:
"Bring it up again and we'll vote on it".
"Save the orange and green pieces and we'll make a quilt".
"Divvies on the red chunks"!
"Better to burp and bare the shame, than not to burp and bare the pain!"

When someone farts, use one of these:
"I thought I heard a buck snort"!
"Who fired that shot"?
"Oh! The spider's are barking"!
"My uncle always told me that holding em in will make ya mean!"
"You do know that a fart is a message from gutsville to buttsville that there's a train coming down the track?" (disgusting I know..but admit it...you love it and can't wait to use this one!)

And last but not least...the one no one believes that I learned from my Granny....when you are losing a game, please be sure to use this phrase:
"Well, I'm losing again. I guess I'm the dog's hind tit."

People..I can't make this stuff up. I really did learn all this nonsense from my Granny. You want to meet her don't you? Well, she lives in Liberal and could tell ya lots of funny stories. You should go visit her really. Although, I would wear a "Depends" if I were you...cause she's a hoot! (Hoot...that's another odd one?!)

To my family members reading this...can you think of any I left out...I know there are more..but this was all I could think of at this moment in time.

P.S. A few more words I think are weird: poop, conquer, supper, tiki, and amarillo. Any words freakin your freak today?

Questions I need answered

So, because of situations some of my friends are dealing with, and my own family...I've been forced to think about my own inevitable death. My sister, Amy, had her will drawn up a few years ago and I thought she was crazy. We're young, single, with really...not much of anything for people to fight over once we're gone! (Although, I did make her put one piece of her furniture in her will for me...is that tacky? SHE ASKED ME what I wanted!!)

Anyway, here are my thoughts:

1. As I said, I own stuff....but none of it's paid off...you know, like my house, my car, my new hot tub!!! I mean...someone could probably use all of those things, but if I died today they'd really just be getting another payment of their own, right? So, as I already said...is there a point of a will right now?

2. Wills....what all goes in a will? Is it just that type of stuff...what goes to who? Or is that where you say what you want to happen to you once your gone? For instance...my mom wants to donate her body to KU Medical School..we had a family member that did that and she thought it was a brilliant plan. She also only wants a memorial service and wants me or my sisters to sing Happy Trails. If you don't know my mom...she's a bit of a whack job! But anyways, does that stuff go in the will? If so, then perhaps I should go ahead and deal with it?

3. Don't laugh too hard or make fun...but the thing I'm most concerned about is who will take care of my dogs?! I KNOW neither of my sisters will. My parents probably would or my Aunt Janet and Uncle Dan. Januea...they love you! Joy you could adopt them too! I kid you not, when I sat down and thought about all this a few weeks ago, this was the one thing that made me really upset. I want to know someone that loves them as much as I do will take them!! So, any volunteers?!

4. My other thought...since I'm not married (sorry mom), who has to foot the bills of me dying? My parents? A sibling? The state? I don't know shit. I mean, am I supposed to have money set aside for this stuff? That doesn't seem like a fun way to enjoy my hard earned paycheck.

5. What really does happen to any debts I owe? Like my house...does the mortgage company just take the house back? Does a family member have to take care of it since there currently is no husband in the picture? I'm clueless.

6. What do I want...cremation, burial, donate organs (the ones that aren't messed up anyway), or follow my mom's plan of giving my dead nastiness to KU? Really, how is one to decide something so bizarre. I kind of feel that it would be a waste to pay for a box to put me in, but burning myself up seems a bit freaky. And although I'm sure I'm a great case for medical students to study, the thought of that is almost so disgusting, that I'd rather not even think about it.

7. A living will...Amy did you do this? Is this a separate will or can it be added into the other? I don't want to live as a vegetable..although sometimes I think I already am. I think this would be an important thing to think about.

8. Although I'm not quite as extreme as my mom wanting Happy Trails at her memorial...I don't want some sad, depressing, funeral or memorial. I just want people to remember what it was they loved about me..whether it's good or bad...and share those memories and stories with one another, laugh, and maybe even have a beer in my memory! (or a shot- either a lunchbox or hypnotic and redbull).

9. I don't want to die for a really long time...


So, if any of you have any knowledge or thoughts on this subject, please share. If you know me, you know I'm not a morbid person...and not always the most organized..but perhaps this is one area where I should be more prepared.

Sweet, tart, and rockin my world!

So, in my efforts to be more health concious and minimize the pain and fatigue that is caused by who knows what since the doctors can't figure it out...I've gotten serious again about working out and what I eat. Here's the thing, I actually do enjoy working out...it's GETTING my butt to the gym that takes some will power. There are just other things that seem more important sometimes. You know, like who is going to get kicked off of "Dancing with the Stars" or "American Idol", sleeping, playing with the dogs, hanging out with friends, etc...

Once I get there I am in the zone, completely focused on my music selection and getting my heart pumping. I love the elliptical, I can put up with the treadmill, and the bike is okay some days. I'm even giving in to the antiquated piece of crap weight room my gym has and just getting in there and doing what I can. Not only that but I'm running to and from the gym...granted...it's only 3 blocks! ha Working out is supposed to give you an adrenalin rush and boost your energy. For me, it makes my entire body hurt and makes me so tired I can barely stand. I actually almost fell asleep while RUNNING on the treadmill a couple weeks ago. Slightly dangerous. BUT...surely the current issues will get better with time and better overall health.

As for food...I've stocked my kitchen with buttloads of fruit: granny smith apples, bananas, strawberries, red grapes, and my favorite of all time...CLEMENTINES!!! If you have never had one, please...for the love of all this is right in this world...go buy some NOW! They truly rock the planet! I've also made myself use nuts or granola here and there. Not my fave...but whatever.

So...if I'm gonna give it a month..and I don't feel any better I've decided I'm going to boycott ALL doctors! I see the 2nd neurologist June 1st for a test for MS. Beyond that..I'm refusing to go if I see no improvements! There ya have it...clementines, gym, no doctors...sound like a grand plan to you?!

You might be a redneck if....

I LOVE THIS! My cousin Wil is a true good 'ol boy. He has grown up in a family of farmers, so for prom...he and his date rode into town and to the prom on the John Deere Crop Sprayer!!! How flippin awesome is this!!! He rocks for sure! Man I love my family!!

Can you tell we're from smalltown America?!

Afterthoughts: Wil's date, Kaylonni, is also from a farming family. I believe they also raise sheep and pigs? Both Wil and Kaylonni are also 4H-ers! WooHoo!

Adam (AKA BUBBA, STINKY, STUEY)

Went to Dallas this past weekend to visit my younger sister Angie, her hubby Jeff, and baby Adam. It was great to get away after the last couple of weeks of work. (Our fundraiser went great, I personally came within $150 of my $2000 goal..and I think we will not be too far from our overall goal once we have the other bowling event for the last county).

Anyway, the weekend was great. Lots of rest, relaxation, and quality time with my family. And seriously, Adam is the cutest and most hysterical baby of all time. Work with me...because now I have to show him off...pics from the weekend..and one hysterical video that you absolutely MUST watch. He's a riot! Lots of slobber, spectacular dimples, and two little teeth starting to poke through!

He does this ALL the time! It's fantabulous entertainment! They are also teaching him to rub his belly after he's done eating. Too funny.