Brown Paper Packages Tied Up With String

Dave and I have been together for almost 6 years. This season will be our fifth Christmas together. Five holidays of gift-giving. Five seasons of trying to find the perfect gift for parents, siblings, nieces, nephews and the occasional cousin. Five. This year is is the first time I have gone shopping with Dave. Usually I do it all myself. It wasn't terrible. For me, at least. I think it was terrible for Dave when I kept asking him questions about what women would love to get. But hey, if you're going to be tagging along, you have to play the part.

So yes, we have started the Christmas shopping. I was amazed to find out that most people start shopping after Thanksgiving. Amazed! That seems like so much work to cram in such a short period of time. I started in August. I have a lot of people on my Christmas list.

I have found as I've gotten older that Christmas has flipped for me. I used to be so excited to get presents. And, don't get me wrong, I still do! But now I find the true excitement lies in hunting for the perfect present, wrapping it in adorable paper, tying the ribbon, and then watching in anxious anticipation for it to be opened. And then hoping they love it, love it, LOVE IT...otherwise, I am ashamed to admit, my feelings are hurt. I know it's silly, but I want to find the perfect gift for everybody on my list.

Is anybody else like this?

More Letters I Would Love to Send

Dear NBC,

Hi. The Great Jay Leno 10pm Experiment? Not working. Let's just chalk it up to a bad idea and a lack of leadership to veto it.


Dear Pandora,

Really? Petra? Really?!? On my Keane channel? Can I assume it was a computer glitch that won't happen again? Thanks. Also, Christian Music from 1989 called...they need their synthesizers back.

Petra...are you freaking kidding me?

Dear Jon Gosselin and Hailey Glassman,

Yeah, I'm not sure if you know this already, but going on Entertainment Tonight isn't considered a couples therapy session. What, exactly, were you thinking?!? Mary Hart doesn't moonlight as mental health professional. Stop it, please. It's awkward, this train wreck masquerading as your "relationship."

Dear Jim Carrey,

Could you please stop ruining Christmas movies for me? First the Grinch and now A Christmas Carol? That's quite enough.


And speaking of Christmas, one last timely letter...


Dear Santa,

I have been a very good girl this year, so I am asking for a trip to Tahiti. Thank you!

Letters I Would Love To Send

Dear Lady in the Seat to my Left,

Here's the thing...my husband and I came early. We knew what time the movie started and we planned accordingly. That is so we could pick out our seats. You and your husband were late. You chose to shoehorn yourselves into our row, taking the last two seats right as the movie started, even though there were other seats you could have had. I didn't say anything when your husband kept talking to you; I knew he would shut up eventually. And he did. Eventually. But here's the thing...when you get there late, you lose your right to the armrest. I was early. I claimed it. Did you really think I was going to give it up? Please! Next time, show up early.

Dear Every Other Driver on I-71,

It's called the fast lane for a reason. You camping out in it going ten miles less than the other lanes isn't really helping anyone. It doesn't matter that you're going the exact speed limit. Did you miss the signs telling slower traffic to get into the right lane? Guess what? If you're in the left lane and traffic in the other lanes is passing you, you are the slower traffic to which the sign refers.

Dear Ohio Turnpike,

Thanks for catching up to the late 1990s and finally using E-ZPass. You rock.

Dear Raising Canes,

Your sauce is crazy delicious. SO freaking yummy! But what the heck is up with your entrances to the drive-thru? It's like navigating a maze in a car. I feel like you're applying an IQ test before people can eat at your establishment. I'm not saying that's a deal-breaker.

Dear Adam from Man Vs Food,

I'm worried about you. Seriously. You need your agent to renegotiate your contract to include cholesterol testing, appropriate meds as prescribed and the occasional stress test. Hey, you're fun to watch, but there is no way you can get approved for life insurance. You need to think about the future.

Dear Any Bus Driver Who Gets the Chance,

Please run over Heidi and Spencer. Back up. Run them over again. Please feel free to repeat as you deem necessary. Thanks from a grateful nation.

Prayers Needed for Another Blogger

Please head over to Jen Murray's blog, 4tunate, and give her some support. If you aren't familiar with Jen or her blog, she is the mom of 2 1/2 yr old quadruplet boys, who are just as gorgeous as can be.

Her husband, Brad, was laid off from his position this past week, and they can use prayers and positive thoughts.

It's a bad time for a lot of people...Dave and I are so blessed that we are both gainfully employed and relatively safe in our positions. Having been through job loss for several months last year, I know how scary and frustrating it can be. Even though we are apart quite a bit, things could be so much worse.

Jen, I am praying for you, Brad and the boys. God bless!

My husband told me tonight that he has never read Where the Wild Things Are. I told him he needs to march back to his elementary school and demand a refund. It saddens me that the books I hold dearest in my heart are things he knows nothing about. What's worse...he called it queer. Should I punch him in the face now or later?

Obviously I'm not really going to punch him in the face. Especially since he just told me he did read The Monster At The End Of This Book, which is one of my favorites. He redeemed himself.

Apparently my husband doesn't have much of an imagination...or much use for it. Forty is so unbecoming to him.

I wonder if he will get over that if we have kids. Maybe. But I finally understand why he says things like "Stop reading so many books and watch some television." He's obviously not a reader.

Recap, Except Not Really

So, I've been a little neglectful of this blog. Like almost two months neglectful. Here's a really quick recap...had my birthday, didn't see Dave for a month due to poor scheduling, my mom got married, and I made the cake.

All caught up!

The truth is that I was feeling a bit blocked. I couldn't think of what to write about. So I wrote nothing. But I've missed it, so I'm back.

Tonight's installment is coming to you from the parking lot of a Cracker Barrel, due to a flat tire. What better time to blog than during the wait for AAA? It always seems like something needs fixed or adjusted on our vehicles. Today's winner is the Explorer. What does it win? Apparently two new tires.

Nice.

Attention, Please!

Today,




August 5th,




is




my




BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!

Yay me!!!!

Thank you very much. You may now return to your regularly scheduled activities.

Dragging You All With Me Down Memory Lane

I finally found the pictures of my Great-Gramma that I wanted to show you! I wrote about her in April. Here she is with me, when I was just a sweet little thing. Oh, how times have changed!

Here she is with all of her great-grandkids at the time. Those are my older brothers, Bryan and Brad. Brad is on the right and looks like he is ready to make a break for it. I'm trying to figure out why Bryan has a pink belt on his pants. I mean, yeah, it was the 70's, but still. And then she is holding my cousin Clint and me. I am 9 days older than Clint.

Doesn't she look so kind and gentle and great-grandmotherly. Looking at these pictures makes me miss her so much, even though she passed when I was very young. But I have such fond memories of her. She always wore brooches. And apparently liked to wear outfits that were fuchsia pink.

Oh, looky! Here I am with my mom at Christmas...boy, I sure do look happy. Filled with the Christmas spirit, am I! This look of mutiny can be found on my niece's face. Apparently Palmer does take a bit after our side of the family.

This is one of the few pictures ever taken of Clint and me as babies where he isn't running me over.

This picture cracks me up!! What a cheesy grin! I'm totally making this my Facebook profile pic. I remember this wallpaper in Gramma Alice's house in New Albany.

Hey, gloves still fit me like this!

And, sometimes my hair still looks like this. Nice to know some things never change.

So, I Started This Little Project, and Now It's a Business!

OMG! I have totally lost my ever-loving mind.

Back in April, I started taking cake-decorating classes because I thought it would be fun. And, you know, a great way to meet other people. And, um, also, I was going to bed every night at 9pm which was driving my husband crazy. Apparently living with Gramma makes you inherit certain traits. Dinner at 5:30pm. Making my bed...every day! Assigned days for cleaning. So I thought I needed to get out for a bit.

Anyway, long story short...I started telling people about the classes, and how I was loving every minute of it. And that I also discovered I had a knack for the baking and the decorating and such.

Bing, bang, boom...I'm working with a fantastic Nestie friend, Jody, who is developing a logo for me. And it's so darn cute!!! I'm totally in love with Jody right now.

It's four months later, and Ladybird Cakes is taking off. I have booked two wedding cakes.

Which kind of makes me want to hyperventilate. Wedding cakes...tiered...designs. And yet, I'm oh-so-thrilled and cannot believe that I am starting to make money from something I absolutely love to do. So now I am thinking about a blog for the business.

And yes, that is why I have been an absentee blogger. I've been working a lot on this. So, coming soon, a website for the business. But, until then, think of me if you need a cake.

Do You Know What Today Is...It's Our Anniversary!

Happy Anniversary to the love of my life, the light of my days, the captain of my ship.

Three years ago today, I married the greatest of guys, and my life has been so full of joy and happiness ever since.

Happy Anniversary, David.

I love you very much!

Sweeping Out the Cobwebs

Well, hello there! I remember you!!

Do you remember me?!?

Seriously, after several weeks without an update, I wouldn't be surprised if you all had up and disappeared. Now you know why my houseplants always seem to die.

I had an office plant once that defied botany. It was a cyclamen that never stopped blooming for the entire length of the job. And then, the day I left, it died. Kind of weird. It was like it appreciated the neglect. I would remember it every once in a while, and then water it. It literally died in my car on the drive home that last day.

Oooh, look! Something shiny!!!

And so goes my attention span. So, in the course of the last few weeks, my oldest brother got married, I learned of the death of someone I went to college with, I baked a really fun castle cake for my cousin's daughter, I completed a fondant cake course, Dave and I traveled to upstate New York for the 4th of July weekend, and then we both came down with summer colds.

It's been a busy few weeks. And the summer cold thing? Totally sucked the most. We're still getting over them, thank you very much to Dave's brother Rick. I'll be remembering this when I shop for Christmas.

Dave and I have our 3rd anniversary coming up on Wednesday. And the plan was to celebrate this weekend. But since we are still a bit under the weather and can't taste anything, I'm not really sure we'll be spending money on a fabulous dinner if we can't tell how fabulous it actually is. Oh well...pj party on the couch works too.

The cake thing is taking off and I am working with someone to design a logo. Once I have some business cards and a list of offerings, I'll be good to go. I'm excited about, since it's the thing I love to do most. Fingers crossed.

I'm getting sleepy, so I'll post the 4th of July photos tomorrow. Lyndonville outdid itself once again!

Thoughts From the Road

I think bumper stickers that proclaim a driver's love for a pet are absolutely ridiculous.

"I love my boxer."

Thanks for the heads up. If it's your pet, you should love them. This coming from an animal-free home.

I want to see a bumper sticker that's a little more genuine.

"I tolerate my Irish Setter."

"If it weren't for a good groomer, my golden retriever would be an outside dog."

"I hate cats, but I love my wife."

I would crack up if I saw that. Wouldn't you?

Remember that post a few months back about the crazy construction sign?

No?!? What do you mean, no?

Okay then, go back and refresh your memory. I'll just sit here and get over the fact that I'm not as memorable as I think.

Back already? Excellent!

Look what I found!!!



Nice, right? Here's his brother!

And his two cousins! A plethora of hilarious signage!

Ahhh, good times! Enjoy your day.

Tuesday Time-Waster

Hey there, welcome to the Tuesday Time-Waster. It's a short one today, but hilarious, nonetheless.

Question: Are women born this way?

Answer: Apparently so!





YouTube...killing time for Kim since 2006.

That Can't Be Right

Has anyone ever questioned which mountain they get Mountain Dew from? It's radioactive yellow, for crying out loud!

I don't think that's a mountain I want to visit.

Bring The Rain

As I sit typing this, I can hear thunder from the coming storm. I love the rain, and I am so glad we are getting some. Our little suburb has been missed by most of the rain for the past couple of weeks, and our flowers are drooping. And not having to drag out the hose and watering cans is really nice.

For those of you wondering, I did manage to make it through my day yesterday without any further mishaps. And today is a new day!

One Of Those Days

Yep, it's one of those days! I spilled tea on my shirt this morning. All down the front of me.

I knocked a pile of files off my desk.

I spilled salad dressing on my sweater at lunch.

I fear for the co-workers around me, that I might somehow collapse my cubicle.

If you see me today, do yourself a favor: Just wave from afar and move on.

The Tuesday Time-Waster

I'd like to introduce you all to a new feature here at A Golfer and A Girl. The Tuesday Time-Waster. A brief interlude to chuckle at something.

Today's time-waster comes from YouTube. But first, a word from our sponsor.

YouTube...killing time for Kim since 2006.

Okay! Did any of you watch the Tony's last night? Me neither! Hey, I was shopping. Apparently Poison was a musical guest for reasons that haven't even begun to be determined. Our hero, Bret Michaels (he of Rock of STD Love fame), somehow screwed up the exit stage left/right instructions he received and instead exited straight back...into a moving prop. A moving prop that promptly flattened him. So, join with me in snickering at his very graceful face-plant. And all while being serenaded by Stockard Channing. Priceless.




Go ahead...watch it again. You know you want to. Look at his bandmates trying in vain to warn him.

Awesome.

Gramma's Hugs Are Best

Sometimes, you just need to cuddle with Gramma!

Six Is An Interesting Number To Choose

My friend, Andrea, from Holdin' Mama's Hand has tagged me in a couple of different posts. So I guess that means I have to stop being so lazy and get a post up. When my mom tells me that she is bored with my blog, it's time to do something.

Today's assignment is to name 6 unimportant things that make me happy. Seems like a breeze, right? But I realized when I started the list that lots of things that make me happy are important. Things like seeing Dave (husband is definitely important) and time with my family (ditto family). So I figured I would have to dig a little deeper.

So here they are, my 6 Unimportant Things That Make Me Happy:

1. Orange soda, specifically Orange Crush or Sunkist. Not the yucky mandarin orange stuff. It reminds me of summertime as a kid. Great memories, especially those glass bottles they used to come in.

2. When my cousins call me Kimmy. Not everyone can get away with it, but my cousins say it so naturally. It makes me feel like I'm part of their little kid club.

3. Watching fireworks, specifically in Lyndonville, NY during the 4th of July celebration. Nothing better! Sure, there might be bigger displays, but for a small town with a focus on a family celebration, this is the best.



4. Reading blogs...I have a really long list of blogs I follow. I find them interesting and funny. And they make my day.

5. That moment of evening between dusk and dark. Twilight. The sky is so beautiful then, like a painting. Soft light, soft sounds, the day is drawing to a close. And now that summer draws near, the air cools a bit then and it relaxes me.

6. Getting into my husband's car, and smelling his cologne on the seat belt. It's like getting a hug from him.

Now I am supposed to tag others, but most of the people on my list have already done this. So...if you are reading this and have not yet written such a post on your blog, consider yourself tagged.

No Pants-Off, Just Dance-Off

I know I need to get a post up, but I've been a little preoccupied. Work and other stuff. So, to distract you, watch this video. A dance-off between two college baseball teams during a FIVE-HOUR rain delay! Hilarious!




YouTube...killing time for Kim since 2006.

I'd Like to Thank The Academy

I'd like to send out a few thank yous to the people and things that made today such a rousing success so far.

First, the very large bottle of wine that Amy and I killed last night. You were yummy, and the perfect addition to girls night. We appreciate the sacrifice, but perhaps you could have warned me about the large headache you were inducing.

Second, my alarm clock. Your shrill beeping at 6:20, 6:25, 6:30, and 6:35 was certainly the way to start the day. Thanks for being so tenacious.

To the two police officers who blocked the left lane this morning during rush hour in order to run in and grab coffee...thanks so much, guys! I just wanted to let you know how helpful it was to have to switch lanes when it was bumper-to-bumper. Excellent! Hey, by the way, I'm heading home at 5pm and then I have to get to a class at 6:30pm. Perhaps you could block a lane on 670 for me then?

And finally, to the chucklehead on the phone first thing this morning who asked if I was Korean...thank you for letting me know I can be discriminated against simply because I have the same first name as a dictator. You're right, sir. Clearly I am to be lumped in the same category. What could my parents have been thinking?

My Gramma's Birthday

Today was my gramma's 84th birthday! I completely concur with our waitress who, when told how old Gramma was, replied incredulously "Nuh uh!".

I think we all have an age or time that we stick our family members at. To me, my Gramma is in her 60s, my mom is 40-something, which makes me up past my bedtime!

I'm so lucky that my Gramma has been such a formative part of my life. I like to think I have some of my independence and spirit from her. She fought breast cancer and kicked its ass, while at the same time took care of my grampa when he was dying of heart disease. She watched her second husband fight stomach and liver cancer which ultimately took his life. She has an iron will and a spine of steel. She laughs in the face of osteoporosis, arthritis and a genetic predisposition for strokes.

And, most importantly, she laughs at all of my jokes. I love her with a fierceness that is reserved for only the most important people in my life.

One of my favorite memories is from the morning of my wedding day. It was 6am and I couldn't sleep. I went out to the living room and she was sitting there. She and I talked about the past, the present and the future. We laughed, we cried. And I realized that no matter how old I get, I am still her grandbaby. And I am proud to carry that title.

Happy Birthday, Gramma! I love you so very much.

Big News

No, I'm not pregnant.

My mom is engaged! As in, getting married! To a really great gentleman who treats me like his own daughter. I'm so thrilled for her. I knew it was coming, but wasn't sure exactly when. I got a call from her Friday night as I was driving home to Cleveland.

I finally saw the ring this morning and it is gorgeous.

I am so happy. And I get to help plan a wedding that isn't my own. Hooray!

Congratulations, Mom. I am so happy for you and Don!

I Don't Have A Problem...I Can Quit Anytime I Want!

Oh lord, folks...I got a Blackberry this weekend! Add me to the legions of people who have gotten hooked. Seriously, I've had the thing for about 6 hours and I have barely put it down. I'm probably going to need to set some boundaries. Maybe a daily time limit or something.

It's so cute, though! It's a Curve. Dave says we should call it the Blackberry Gouge. He's a funny boy when it comes to our cell bill!

Its sweet, siren song has been calling to me for a few months. I rationalized getting it by explaining how it will help me stay connected now that I don't have internet at home during the week. Which translates to I need to be on Facebook and this blog after hours, so there!

Here's the transcript of a conversation Dave and I just had about the phone:

Dave: Does it have the pointer-thinger...the tick-tick-tick thing?

Me: No, it has the flick-flick-flick thing and the ch-ch-ch-ch-ch thing. No tick-tick-tick- tick though.

Dave: Oh, I thought you wanted a tick-tick-tick thinger.

Me: I don't need it.

I dare you to try to figure out what the heck we were talking about. We understood each other, but we both may be a little bit insane. A healthy level of insanity is required for marriage, right?

Right?!?

Hey, can someone let me out of this room? I don't like padded walls.

Here's Something Funny...My Commute!

This is my view, every day, going to and from work. Brake lights, bumper to bumper, as far as the eye can see. And this picture was taken on a rainy afternoon, which meant the pace was even slower. And yes, I was stopped when I took the photo.

Every day. Bumper to bumper. Columbus needs rail service or 3 more lanes on every highway in each direction.

Was That A Tumbleweed Rolling By?

I hate writer's block! It keeps me from waxing poetic on this blog. Rest assured I am trying to come up with some funny posts to keep you entertained. But, until my mind connects, it's just the sound of crickets around here.

Hey!

You!

In the corner!

I hear you snoring!!!

Yes, Another Post About Cake!

I did this!!! Can you believe it?!? And the really amazing thing is that I carried this cake from the house to the car, the car to class, class to the car, car to the house, house to the car, and, finally, from the car to work. And all without dropping it. I felt like one of those contestants on the Food Network Cake Challenge, where they have to lift their 700 lb. cake and carry it to a separate table for display.

Except, you know, my cake was less than a pound. And in a convenient carrier. And only two layers. But still!


Last night was the end of Course 1 at Wilton University. I'm totally telling everyone I'm taking classes. What's that, you want to meet for drinks? Sorry, can't. I have class tonight at the university. We're learning royal icing techniques. The professor is a real stickler!


Actually, I am already enrolled in Course 2 which starts next week. I only have to make one cake for this class. And the instructor, Denise, could not be nicer! I highly recommend taking the classes with her at the Michael's at Easton. She made the first course so much fun.

At Least Blame The Right Thing

All week long, I have been avoiding the discussion of the Miss USA debacle because, quite frankly, I just don't care. Really. But that doesn't mean I have no opinion. And here it is: Miss California, you didn't lose the pageant because your answer upset Perez Hilton. You lost because your answer was convoluted and nonsensical.

And, you lost because of these earrings!

Sweetheart, they are hideous.

And can we talk for a second about gracious losing? Stop doing interviews where you claim the only reason you lost was because of your answer. Hello?!? That's why they ask the questions! To weed out the ones who don't quite measure up. Why not say something like "The new Miss USA is a great choice. She will be a terrific ambassador for the organization."

Lie if you must. You're a pageant veteran after all. But stop sounding all sour grapes about the whole thing. You sound like you're being interviewed right before 4th period English class at Pretty Pretty Princess Middle School.

If I were the new Miss USA, I'd track California down and throw Donald Trump's combover at her.

Let Them Eat Chocolate Fudge Cake

This is cake #2. Devil's Food with a chocolate fudge center. It's rich and sinful.

Go on...admit it. You want a piece.

It's okay.

I know.

It's a Cake!

I just realized I totally forgot to post about cake class last week. I was so wrapped up in Mom's birthday and Dad's medical issues that it completely slipped my mind.

I was amazed at how relaxing the class was. And I discovered I have a steady hand when it comes to the techniques. I have class again tonight. I promise, I'll do better at timely posting.

I made a lemon cake with raspberry filling for last class. I wasn't crazy about the icing, so I am adding butter this week to see if that is an improvement. Those are tulips, in case you are florally-challenged.

This week it's chocolate cake with a fudge filling.

What Can I Say, I'm Easy To Please

Those are Spearmint Tic Tacs. I love me some Spearmint Tic Tacs. All other Tic Tacs pale in comparison.

Do you know how hard it is to find these in stores? They are elusive, people! And elusive is not good for someone who is totally addicted to them. Not good at all!

Now, let me tell you how crafty my mother is...she managed to find these. Where, you ask? Why, at the Der Dutchman restaurant in Plain City. She is good, I tell you! She found them last year at Cedar Point, too.

Usually I have to buy them online in bulk. Not today, though! And that slight shift you felt at 1:35pm Eastern Time today? That was the world righting itself now that these babies are in my possession.

A Great-Grand Dream

Last week, I dreamt about my great-grandmother, whose name was Roma. Isn't that a great name? She passed away when I was barely 4, so I don't have a lot of concrete memories of her. But the dream was incredibly detailed. Her blue eyes were striking, and very kind. I always had the impression that she was very gentle. And while most of my memories involve her being in a nursing home, I do remember being in her house as a small child.

She used to keep old-fashioned butter mints around and I loved them! I remember trying to sneak into the kitchen to get them. She kept them on a high shelf, and I pulled drawers out from the floor to the counter to climb up and get them. Amazingly, I didn't hurt myself. My clumsiness is well known.

I have no idea why I dreamt about her, but I've had several people tell me she is trying to send a message or there is something in my subconscious I'm trying to remember about her. Whatever the reason, the dream gave me such a feeling of happiness. I didn't realize how much I missed her. My nieces and nephews are so lucky that they have a great-grandmother in their lives. One who is active and very present for them. Most people aren't that lucky.

Roma was the mother of the gramma I live with now. I can remember drinking out of pink glasses like the photo below since I was very small. It turns out these glasses belonged to Great-Gramma Roma. It's amazing to me that Gramma lets us drink out of them. What a treasure they are.

I'll have to see if I can find some photos of her to post.

Grace and Charm...That's Me!

I love Chipotle! I super pink puffy-heart Chipotle. A steak fajita burrito bol makes my entire week! Add guacamole and I'm in sheer bliss! But let me tell you what I don't love. I don't love the guy who decides that lunch time is the perfect moment to mop the floor in the Chipotle in German Village.

Listen, fella, look at my feet. See the cute, peep-toe red heels? Okay, now travel up. See me? Hey, my eyes are up here, buddy! Anyway, I'm clumsy on a good day. I'm thrilled to get through my day without tripping. So, let's do a little math to figure this out.

Chipotle Floor + Mopping = Slick Surface.

Slick Surface + Kim + Red Peep-Toe Heels = Disaster

Yes, I managed to make it out of the place unscathed. I stayed upright and didn't slip at all. Of course, that's only because I used the ledge to steady myself. If I crash in the Chipotle because of a wet floor, think I can get free Chipotle out of it? More than 1 or 2, I mean.

I noticed today that when I say the word "fabulous, " I use jazz hands. What is that about? And when did I start?

It's a beautiful day here in the capital city. Sun is shining, people are in a good mood. Spring has sprung, people. I think there should be mandatory work release on Fridays that are this beautiful. Can somebody get on this for me?

Have a great weekend, everybody!

National Healthcare Decisions Day

Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day, a day to focus on your decisions regarding end-of-life care. Hospice of the Western Reserve has asked for bloggers to donate space on their blogs today to discuss their end-of-life wishes. I've been thinking a lot about this over the last week, and I realized I've never had this discussion with my husband, or any of my family members. Part of it may be the idea that discussing such an unpleasant topic is uncomfortable for people. Most people don't want to dwell on the thought of their own demise. But since we don't live forever, we really should stop and think about what we want done.

For me, the thought of being kept alive artificially holds no allure. Medical advances being what they are, I trust that doctors should know what constitutes a vegetative state. And I don't want to be in that state. Nor do I want my husband or family to have to decide what to do. I feel that I am the best person to decide what I want to happen to myself, and I would rather decide that now. While I am not 100% comfortable stating my exact wishes here, rest assured it is included in my planning.

It is important for me to maintain dignity throughout the process. I should be the one to make the plan, not someone for me. And not, God forbid, someone for political gain as in some of the more well-known cases.

I used this link to prepare an Advanced Directive to prepare for such an event. And I am going to sit down with my husband so we can discuss our wishes together. But it doesn't stop there. I also plan on sharing this information with my family (Mom, Dad, etc.) so they know my wishes as well. The idea of a tug-of-war over top of my hospital bed is enough to make me crazy, and I will not allow that to happen. Not if I can help it.

I hope that by posting this, it inspires you to have this conversation as well. It is so critically important, but it takes a very small amount of time.

Wednesday Wrap-Up

Thanks for all of your good thoughts yesterday. I am happy to report that my Dad did fine with his procedure and will be released from the hospital sometime today. I have rediscovered that I am not good at waiting...not at all. But I do have to give a big thumbs up to the people at Mt. Carmel East Heart Center. From the moment we stepped in the door until I left last night, the entire staff was incredibly caring and compassionate. And the waiting room was actually comfortable. Cushy chairs and recliners, TVs...a nice place to sit if you have to.

My mom had a good birthday. The big celebration with us will be Saturday evening, but she went out to dinner with her "friend" Don last night. I feel bad that her birthday got a bit overshadowed, but this way, she gets to spread the celebration out. That's not really all that bad.

Happy Birthday to My Mom!

Today is a big day in our family. April 15th is my mom's birthday! We have never looked at this date with loathing due to the IRS that so many of you do. Instead, it's a day of celebration.

Mom would like you all to believe she is 39, but that would mean she was a very small child when she had me. However, just for today, I'll indulge this wish.

So, Happy 39th Birthday, Mom! I love you very much and I hope your day is everything you want it to be! And if you can stretch your celebration from a day to a week, then even better.

This Just In...

I found a Hershey Bar with Almonds in the back of my desk. A whole bar! Score!!!

Mmmmmmm...chocolate.

That is all. You may now return to your regularly scheduled day.

Golf, A Good Walk...Oh, Who Am I Kidding? I Rode In The Cart!

Good Monday morning, everybody! Of course, it's gray and dreary, so maybe not such a good morning, but it's the salutation that counts. What a jam-packed weekend!

I spent Saturday morning baking a coconut cake and setting up the house for the Easter celebration on Sunday. Then, I drove up to OakHaven Golf Course in Delaware to watch Dave's golf team battle the elements. It could have been worse, weather-wise, but it was still pretty crappy. The only redeeming factor was the sun shone all afternoon. But the wind! Dreadful and cold. I absolutely froze. I managed to stay just above hypothermia levels until the very end, when the sun started to droop down and the wind kicked up. That's when the shivering and teeth-chattering started. And, you all know, once that happens, you've passed the point of no return. I was so happy to get back into the car and turn the heat on.

But even with the weather, I still had a great time. I got to see Dave's team, and they are a great group of guys. All very funny, very nice. Golfers are a little different when it comes to college behavior. I also got to see a couple of our old friends. Dave and I know the coach from Mt. Union College. I miss him so much now that I am in Columbus, so it was a great surprise to see him there. We also got to see one of Dave's former golfers who lives down here. All in all, a good day. Of course, if the temperature had been about ten degrees warmer with no wind, that would have been perfect. But considering that this tournament had a snow delay last year, I'm not going to dwell.

Yesterday, most of the family converged on Gramma's for the annual Easter Dinner. This year we had 21 people ranging in age from 90-something to 1 month. Dave wasn't able to make it since he had the golf tournament and got home late Saturday. We had the requisite egg hunt, along with some fabulous food. Ham, cheesy potatoes, mac and cheese, green bean casserole, homemade rolls...the works! Yummy delicious. Thank goodness we don't eat like that every weekend!

This is the week of Dad's procedure, so I am a little preoccupied with that. I went to see him last night and got the rundown of his medications. Nothing makes you grow up faster then having to discuss living wills and powers of attorney with a parent. And while I don't expect we'll need to worry about anything, it doesn't hurt to be prepared.

Fingers crossed for a good week.

And Now, Fluff

In light of the last post, I thought I'd put something on here a little less weighty!

My favorite line of dialogue from last night's episode of Bones:

Booth: "We have to stop hanging out with geniuses, or you're going to figure out how dumb I am."

Brennan: "Don't worry about that! I figured out how dumb you were a long time ago."

National Healthcare Decisions Day

I'm taking a break from the normally light-hearted and ridiculous fluff I post to bring you something important to think about. Next Thursday, April 16th, is National Healthcare Decisions Day. It's a day in which to stop and reflect on what you would want to happen in the event of your catastrophic illness or injury.

I know...I KNOW! It's not a fun topic. Nobody likes to think about what horrible things could happen to themselves. But, what if something did? Have you communicated your wishes to your loved ones? Do they know what you want to happen? Do you want to ask someone to make such difficult decisions when they are emotionally wrought? Neither do I! And since I am in the middle of helping my Dad prepare documents that address these issues in advance of his procedure next week, it is obviously very timely for me.

Hospice of the Western Reserve (Cleveland) has a project they are coordinating for this event. They are asking bloggers to post their wishes on their blog. Here is the information my friend Paige sent me:

April 16th—yes, the day after taxes—is National Healthcare Decisions Day. As a part of this initiative, Hospice of the Western Reserve would like to invite you to share your wishes in the event of a tragedy on your blog.

You’ve heard about the high profile cases: Terri Schiavo, Karen Ann Quinlan and Nancy Cruzan. All were young women, and none of them established their end of life wishes before being faced with tragedy.

The younger you are, the more important it is to plan ahead. Although the likelihood that they will be needed is not as great, the severity of the consequences is greater.

If you’re interested in raising awareness for advance care planning among young professionals in Cleveland, let me know and I can send you Courage in Conversation and/or set you up with someone from our team to discuss. I’ll be posting on my personal blog on April 16, too, and will be providing links to participating blogs/columns on our website, HospiceWR.org. I’d like to invite you to link back to this page on your blog, too.

Here are some questions to get you going:
• What is most important for you in your life right now?
• What are your most important hopes?
• What do you hope to avoid most of all?
• Which options would you prefer?
• Attempt cure; use all appropriate interventions.
• Give curative treatments where appropriate and manage other conditions; avoid aggressive interventions.
• Keep me comfortable and emphasize quality of what time remains; avoid potentially life-prolonging interventions.

If you have a blog, please consider participating as well as having this conversation with your loved ones. If you don't have a blog, just have the talk. There is additional information on preparing advanced directives on this site.

Thanks, everyone!

Who Is Your Never?

So, the cake class! Lots of fun. And the best part, besides making yummy cakes? My friend, Staci, is in it as well. I didn't even know she was going to be there. It was like that moment in college when you're in a class of complete strangers, and then that one familiar face arrives and you realize how great it's going to be.

Staci and I became acquaintances when we were planning our weddings. We were both on a local board on The Knot. Because of Staci's recommendation, we ended up with an awesome and affordable DJ at our wedding. And, for that, I will be eternally grateful to Staci.

Last night before bed, I was listening to some music I had downloaded. Blue October has released a new album and there is a song called "My Never" which is incredible. (I have to apologize for the link, though. It's the only one I can find that isn't completely awful since I just discovered that the song will be in the "New Dawn" movie.) Beautiful, moving lyrics, completely relatable. I think everybody has a "Never." Someone who didn't work out. A relationship that was wrong in the timing. A person you were sure you would end up with, but you didn't. And, when I look back, I am so happy that things worked out the way they did. I would gladly trade my never for my forever. But I'm also glad that my never was in my life at one point. All the twists and turns, the somersaults...they were worth it, to get me onto the path I needed to be on. To make me who I am.

If you are in Columbus, you may read The Other Paper. I have some friends on the cover.

Don't they look great? Like they are having such a good time? They were partying after the New Kids On The Block concert last Friday. I love their custom-made t-shirts. No, I don't know all of them, but the ones I do are so freaking hilarious, so very nice, and let's face it, so darn cute. Makes me almost sorry I wasn't a fan of New Kids back in the day.

Shout out to my friend, Randy! He turns 35 today. Happy Birthday, buddy!! May you get to watch all the Master's Tournament you can stand this weekend.

Seasons Change, Men Decorate Cakes

For those of you who have asked, yes, my week is definitely better than my weekend! So far, I have managed to avoid wearing food or drink, injuring myself, or crashing my vehicle. And now that I have put that in writing, you know one of those things is bound to happen. Because that is Murphy's Law.

Speaking of Murphy's Law, when I was in grade-school, I had a classmate whose last name was Murphy. In gym class, when we were playing basketball, she named her team "Murphy's Law." And I found that just so funny because, really, if you are looking to be successful, you probably don't want to use that particular name. Gee, what a nerd I was. I was probably the only one to find it funny, because nobody else thought about it. And now that I think about it, she was a really good athlete, so her team probably won the tournament. She was the prettiest girl in class, too. And she looks exactly the same now. How unfair is that? Well, I've managed to depress myself. I'm awesome.

Moving on!

It would be great if you guys could think some positive thoughts for my father. It turns out he may have a blockage creating issues in the lower chambers of his heart, so he will be going in for a procedure next week to fix the issue. Crossed fingers or prayers will also be appreciated. You know...whatever your thing might be.

Tonight is the first night of my cake decorating class. Let's hope, upon completion, I have skills in that area. Otherwise, I may end up on this site. Of course, I'm not a professional, nor do I plan to be. A friend of mine told me he had taken the class. And I am ashamed to admit that I found that surprising. Me! A totally independent, do your own thing, don't let gender get in your way kind of person. I didn't, for an instant, think guys would be in the class. And that shames me. I'm hanging my head right now, wallowing in the shameful shame-i-ness. Sigh. So very sorry, my totally heterosexual friend who just wanted to make fabulous cakes. Will you tutor me if I need help?!?

Work has been busy. Training in earnest to get up to speed on my job. Lots to learn, and I need to know something about everything that my employer does. A jack of all trades. I'm quickly learning what I like, and what I hate. But, overall, a lot of like, and very, very little hate. I feel so lucky to have such a great place to work, with really fabulous co-workers. It's a nice feeling.

Spring is here, in spite of the snowfall earlier this week. Driving down Broad Street in Columbus yesterday, the sun was shining and the blossoms were out on the trees. There is nothing prettier that spring-flowering trees. Just when you think you cannot stand anymore gray or brown dreariness, voila! Pink and white blossoms, green buds. Everyone is happier.

And, if you're like me, you know what's next!

Orange construction barrels!!!

A Little Black Rain Cloud

Pretty craptastic weekend I just had. Who knew I would be so happy for Monday. Suffice it to say, it was not fun. I'll spare you the details, but I'll sum it up for you. On my drive back to Columbus last night, I stopped to get something to drink at a drive-thru. As the worker handed my drink to me (a large, mind you), the bottom of the cup gave way and I ended up with iced tea and ice all over me. My shirt and pants were soaked, as was my seat. Good times. I just sat there, looking at myself, cracking up. Because really, at that point, it was either laugh or cry. And if I cried, I probably would have ended up at a real drive-thru for some type of adult beverage. And that would have ended badly, I can assume.

The poor girl at the window was mortified! I'm sure she thought I was going to yell at her, but it wasn't her fault. In her defense, she did offer to give me extra napkins. That was a fun drive home, I tell you. Serves me right. Clearly fate was out to get me.

Ever have a bad-luck moment? Or, in my case, a bad-luck weekend? I need a get-away from my get-away.

Here's What Made Me Laugh Out Loud Today

The fundamental difference between the sexes, and proof you don't need to understand the language to get the message:





This one is three years old, but still cracks me up!





Dave wants me to include this, and I admit, it is so freaking funny!





Here's another Sprint..."This, in here, and we're outta here! Buckle up, dudes!"



YouTube...killing time for Kim since 2006.

This Much I Know

1. While I might agree that most of Bruce Springsteen's songs *might* sound alike, I think it's un-American to say so.

2. I think that anyone who says "You would understand if you had kids" to a lady who has fertility issues should be smacked across the face twice; once to get their attention and the second to drive home the point.

3. Bra companies need to do a better job designing bras for those of us who have (ahem) ample cleavage. We would like to wear cute bras, too. Can someone get on this?!?

4. I really feel that people who tell you the book was better than the movie should be laughed at..of course the book was better than the movie! How pretentious can you get?

5. Payroll administrators are sexy in a "you get paid because of me" kind of way.

6. I miss Wendy the Snapple Lady.

7. I think chicken sandwiches from Winking Lizard are crazy delicious!

8. If a car is driving beside you and it's a Lexus, chances are pretty good it's going to cut you off.

9. I'm really not sure how whisking mayo twice will make it taste better.

10. And I think it's gonna be a long long time, till touch down brings me round again to find, I'm not the man they think I am at home. Oh no no no I'm a rocket man.

11. You shouldn't complain about the cost of Girl Scout Cookies. It's a FUNDRAISER, for crying out loud!

12. I would just about kill for spearmint Tic-Tacs.

13. I'm longing for a warm beach.

Spoiled?!? Surely, You Jest!

Some of you may remember that while Dave and I are living apart, I am staying with my Gramma and Mom during the week. It's pretty great that dinner is on the table when I get home, and my sheets are freshly-laundered every Sunday night. And the fact that, sometimes, my Gramma packs my lunch for me cannot be discounted in the slightest.

Okay, I am a *bit* spoiled. But I love the fact that I have this time with both of them. It's time I'll never regret, even though I am separated from Dave during the week. It's a trade-off, and I have to believe that we are on this path for a reason. Fingers crossed that he finds a job here soon. Until that happens, I'm incredibly lucky to have family that has room for me.

I love the fact that we laugh every single night. We share funny stories. Gramma told me a story about lipstick one night that had me in tears. Even now, thinking about it, I chuckle. And I'm so glad, I'm so thankful that the three of us enjoy being around each other.

How Do You Even Spell Blogiversary?

Today is Julie's Blogiversary over at 47 and Starting Over. Please do me a great big favor and go over to her blog. She's trying to get to 100 comments today, so go leave a note!

Thanks!

Not In The Mood

Today is one of those days, people. I woke up in a foul mood for whatever reason, and so far it hasn't gotten any better. I opened my yogurt at my desk and that stupid lid just launched yogurt all over. How it does this I will never know.

My cranberry juice tastes wrong. My favorite hand lotion is missing. I broke a nail getting in the car, then broke another getting out.

This may not be my day.

More later.

Bobby Knight? You Know He's Crazy, Right?

Someone showed me this ad yesterday, and I honestly don't know how I missed it during the copious hours of basketball I have been watching lately. Have you seen it? Hilarious!!



But then there's more, which I just saw today!



So here is the question of the day. Who wins? Bobby Knight or James Hetfield?

It's Chanel, For Goodness Sakes!

I am one of those typical girly-girls, who has 212 pairs of shoes, 1100 tubes of lipstick, and multiple fragrances for whatever the occasion. And while I do wear all of the shoes and I try to use all of the lipstick, my fragrance collection is rather...well, dusty. I use one or two regularly. The rest.....meh.

I decided I should probably get rid of the ones I never wear, and pare down a bit. Gone are the half-used bottles of what was I thinking, you've got to be kidding, and the Bath and Body Works Collection that no longer exists in the store. And can someone explain to me why they only discontinue the scents I like? That drives me crazy!

Anyway, I decided to wear my "special-occasion" perfume this morning. Chanel No. 5. Love it! It was the perfume I wore at my wedding. It was the perfume my mom wore for her special occasions. It makes me feel grown-up and sophisticated. But when I mentioned what I was wearing to someone when she asked, she kind of made a face. And it made me think of an NCIS episode when a character asked if anyone wore Chanel No. 5 anymore. Do they? Am I old-fashioned for loving it? And here's the bigger question...do I even care?

Regardless, I smell fabulous!

So Much for That Graceful Aging Thing

Let me tell you what depresses me! This weekend, while hanging out with Dave and his golf team (college), Dave and I were telling stories. And I told the story of the time that Dave and I were in the car, driving to Columbus, and I started singing "Check baby, check baby, 1 2 3 4." Do you remember the song? Wreckx-N-Effect?? Anyone?!? Yes, I know! The song is called "Rumpshaker," and what the heck was I doing singing that song I will never know. But it popped in my head that day in the car. So I finish the whole countdown and Dave turns to me and says "If you have to check the damn thing ten times, the SOB* is broken." Which made me laugh so hard that I cried for the next few miles

*abbreviation used to prevent offending blog readers.

So I tell the story, and these guys look at me as if waiting for the punchline. They had NO IDEA what the song was. And then, as if in unison, two guys get their laptops out and start searching for it on Google. It was so sad, because I didn't think the song was THAT old. Except that, yes, it was from college, and yes, that was a few years (13) ago. And YES, these guys were like 6 or 7 years old. But still!

All those times I got carded recently? Down the drain, I tell you. Those guys just stared at me. Tell me again, Kim, about the time the dinosaurs rocked the greek mixer. Whatever. That song was played at every event! That and Salt-N-Pepa, which reminds me of one night at the TKE house, but that's a story for another day.

I'm off to search for lines on my face.

Princess Palmer

Let me tell you about my niece, Palmer. She is such a hoot! She'll be three on June 2nd, but she already acts like a little adult. She has the most gorgeous hair...a brilliant, beautiful red that a lot of women would kill for.

Palmer recently discovered Barbie when her daddy brought a DVD home for her. And, like so many others before her, Palmer suddenly wished for the long, blonde hair that is Barbie's trademark. As my sister-in-law said, that damn Barbie ruins everything. I chuckled when I heard her say that, but I am sad that Palmer is already deciding at such a young age that something about her should be changed. And even though she also will probably forget she said that just as fast, it still makes me nervous. I remember longing for the same hair long ago, and even today, still have wistful moments when I wish for something other than what I have. But, this post is about Palmer.

Palmer, my incredibly independent niece. My sweet, persnickety, Dora-loving, hilariously-funny, soprano-voiced niece. The one who sings "Crinkle, Crinkle Little Star." Petite, serious, porcelain-faced, chocolate-milk loving little girl. Grumpy at times, always particular. She has had a personality as large as life from day one. She makes me laugh all the time. She is funny, most of the time intentionally, already demonstrating a phenomenal sense of humor. Her imagination is huge, and, I hope, still relatively untapped. I can only imagine what live has in store for her. Or, more accurately, what Palmer has in store for life!

Cheers!

This weekend marks the first tournament in Dave's spring season, which means no trip to Cleveland for me. I met him and the guys for dinner tonight in Mt Vernon, then drove to my brother and sister-in-law's house to prepare food for my Dad's birthday dinner tomorrow. Potato salad tonight, pies tomorrow. I'm embracing my inner domestic goddess. In fact, I think I could be a good 1950's housewife. I love the fabulous dresses, I look good in pancake make-up and matte red lipstick, and I can down the vodka like nobody's business. Get me some valium and I'm there!

I picked up the Pearl Jam re-release last night on a shopping spree. Spree is defined very loosely...it also included two shirts, MAC primer, and a new journal. The CD? It's awesome. Incredible tracks, new music. The only thing that sucked was that the CD player in my car stopped working, so I had to wait until today to listen to it. I really need to get that thing fixed.

March Madness moves on and my bracket is in flames. That's not so awful; it happens every year. What stinks is that the person who picked Siena over my Buckeyes also made a few other picks which trumped mine. Retribution will be swift. It's one thing to win one game but to absolutely trounce my bracket on your own? Unacceptable.

The birthday week is almost over. It will soon be followed by the treadmill week, then the step up the cardio week and so on, to counteract the massive amount of sweets I've eaten. My new boss turned 50 on Wednesday and, suffice it to say, I made a piggy of myself that day as well. There was just so much to eat. Except coffee cake.

Let me tell you the coffee cake story. It's a good one.

Wednesday morning, my co-worker and mentor (and all-around funny girl), Virginia, was carrying a coffee cake from the parking garage to our department for the birthday foodfest. She loaded herself down and set off for the stairwell. At the door, disaster struck. The load shifted and the dish with the coffee cake plummeted to its demise. That dish broke into a jillion pieces. I would have loved to have overheard the streak of words coming out of her mouth when it happened. She brushed the shards to the side in one pile, and called building services to let them know. On Friday, it was still there. Like a little memorial. Here lies Ginny's suicidal coffee cake.

Tomorrow I'll be writing about my niece, Palmer. She just discovered Barbie, and I'll say this...that damn doll ruins everything.

Happy Birthday!!!

My husband, Dave, has a big birthday today! He's 40!!!

His boss was nice enough to let him out of work early today so he can drive down and have dinner with me. I'm so glad I get to see him on his actual birthday.

Honey, I love you! I hope your birthday is exactly what you want it to be. I cannot wait until I see you tonight.

Love,
Me

A Lesson in Making Grocery Lists UPDATED

Last night's rundown:

Go to Giant Eagle to order birthday cake for Saturday, pick up cake for Thursday, get supplies for potluck at work. Get soaked in pouring rain walking from car to door and back again because umbrella is missing.

Drive home.

Realize I forgot ice cream for Thursday's cake. Stop at Kroger. Get soaked again walking from car to store and back.

Drive home.

Realize I forgot key ingredient for potluck recipe. Drive back to Kroger. Get soaked walking to door. Get heckled by Kroger greeter who comments that I was just there.

Stop, give fish-eye to greeter, thank him for pointing that out. Get ingredient, walk back to car in rain. Get in car, shut door, rain stops. Notice umbrella is under a bag in the backseat.

I am awesome, am I not?

UPDATED: And speaking of my awesomeness, how about the fact that the title should have read A Lesson in Grammar, since I had such an obvious error. It has been corrected, and thank you to that one person who pointed it out. For those of you that noticed and just laughed, I can appreciate that too!

Just For This Moment

Last night, after work, as I was heading to the driving range to hit a few balls, I passed the funniest sign I've seen in a while.

Okay, I understand that a lot of you may need a moment to digest that last statement and stifle the laughter. Yes, it is true I have very little athletic ability. I'm happy if I can stay upright walking down the hall. So the thought of me swinging a blunt instrument to create a flying projectile that could end up God knows where might be a little overwhelming. Chuckle away, but I'm only giving you ten more seconds. Okay, STOP!

Okay, the sign! It was attached to a construction zone on Sunbury Road and said "No Electrocution Zone." I thought I read it wrong, so I did the Scooby-Doo "WHAT?!?" head-shake. But I read it correctly the first time.

So it begs the question, exactly where is the "Electrocution Zone?" Is it negotiated into the workers' contracts that certain areas be deemed as electrocution-free zones. What happens if you get electrocuted in a "No Electrocution Zone?" Are you ticketed? Some kind of citation.

But I do get the meaning. The point is that if you put the message up where people will read it, it makes them be more careful. A self-fulfilling prophecy. If you say it, over and over, it will happen. It's a good lesson. Learn to live in the moment. Conscious of what is happening.

And take it a step further. I've been inspired by some other bloggers recently who are finding the good things that happen every day. Seizing on moments of joy and laughter, love, even absurdity. The things that happen on your daily journey that make you stop, or provoke a response. So, I am going to remember the great moments throughout my day, and replay them at night when the day is through.

I had some great moments yesterday. A phone conversation with Dave that made us both laugh when I told him I didn't want to hit golf balls from the grass because I didn't want my brand-new super cute golf shoes to get dirty. A moment at work when I smiled after helping someone who just needed help, and I had the privilege of being that person. Reliving memories with an old and dear friend. Awesome onion straws at dinner. Asparagus that was cooked perfectly. Going to bed smiling, and waking up with the smile still there.

And now sharing these things with you.

Why Yes, I Am A Sexy Scientist, Thank You Very Much

I was recently compared to the lead character on the TV show, Bones. At first, I wasn't sure what to think about that, because if you've seen the show, she's kind of quirky. Not that quirky is a bad thing! But after further reflection, I've decided to take it as a compliment. First of all, she's incredibly smart. She's also strikingly beautiful. And sexy in a scientific way. Not that I, for an instant, consider myself either of those things. But I don't mind at all being compared to someone like her, even if she's a fictional character. In fact, it really made my day.

And we all have quirks. Little things we do or say. Rituals that get us through the day. For instance, when I think of the word laundry in my head, I think of it in a British accent. I have no idea why. Somebody, at some point, must have said it to me that way and it lodged in my mind. Dave has a friend from Australia and I love the way he says my husband's name. When I write Dave's full name on something, I think of the way Sean pronounces it. That's a little quirky.

I was writing Dave's name on a form this week, and when the woman who took it glanced down, she asked me if I knew my husband had two first names.

Ummm, yes? Funny enough, we had to disclose our last names to each other when we applied for the marriage license. I'm thinking we need to give our kids last names as firsts to counteract.

Ooops, left turn there.

I'm sure there are more quirks that I have. I'm not going to put too much thought into it, though. I'm just going to assume the person meant the comparison positively, and I'll embrace it.

What kind of quirks do you have?