They won! Yay! It was a tough game too. Itchy's team won it in overtime. Very dramatic.
It rained during the whole game. It hasn't rained that hard since the hurricane. It usually only rains for a few minutes, but this lasted from 7 pm to umm, well it's still raining at 11 pm. It was windy too. Since it was only about 70 degrees, it was downright cold. There is no shelter from the rain either, so you either didn't watch it or you got wet. I got wet. Not many fans showed up, which wasn't a big surprise. I forgot to bring the trophy (doh!) so we don't have the standard trophy photo, but they did take a team picture after the game. I can't really post it because I don't have everyone's permission and I'm courteous like that.
The undefeated season will be in the record books. They name will be added to the trophy (again, 2nd championship win). They will be getting new championship jerseys. See ya on the field next season.
GO DRUNK MONKEYS!!!!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Patriots
The final game is tonight. Itchy's team, the Fighting Drunk Monkeys (ok, I added the fighting part because it's funnier and sounds better), has the whole season riding on this game. They have had a perfect season. Will they go down in flames like the Patriots? Or will they walk away with the trophy?
Sunday, March 30, 2008
I need to go to the gym
Yesterday I found out that I am completely out of shape. I knew the gym wasn't working (skipping for a week *may* have a little to do with this). I'm going to be searching for a new and improved workout to start on Tuesday. I think it may involve running. Can it get any worse? No. No it can not.
Itchy and I went on our first ever Hash yesterday. That's how I made my discovery. It was fun but I wasn't sure I was going to make it. That first hill was brutal. I think we'll probably do it again.
A hash, for those who aren't familiar, is a fun run/walk. The island has a Hash House Harriers group which is a drinking club for people with a running problem. Yep, you run or walk (we walked) the trail that they have set and then, upon completion, you drink. Good times had by all.
This trail was not the easiest (some are easier than others, so we've been told). It was also not the cleanest. At the beginning of the trail we had to cross the mud flats. The stinky, stinky mud flats. With the flies. There were millions of flies. I'm not sure how to describe the mud flats. It feels like you are walking on a sponge (or a bog if you've ever done that). There are parts that are more stable than others. Then there are parts that you just sink knee deep in mud. And lose your shoe. Or lose your balance and go face first into the awful smelling mud. We had the choice to cross over the middle or take the rocks along the side and then make a 4 foot jump across. Itchy and I took the rocks. I made it out fairly clean but Itchy ended up knee deep in mud. We all smelled like shit for the remainder of the walk.
After the mud we had to walk up a hill. This is when I thought I'd die. It was steep. We were walking fast to catch up with the group. I just couldn't catch my breath. Terrible. Thus the need for a new workout. Once we caught up with the group, slowed down a bit, I was able to catch my breath and have fun. It was fun. We didn't finish dead last either!
After the walk we had the drinking. Everyone gathers at the end of trail for beer and burgers. There's soda (but no water!) for those who don't want beer and the kiddies. Yes, kids are welcome to do the trail as well. Then they have the Virgin initiation (first time Hashers) and the awards ceremonies. It seems as though the virgin initiation is suppose to be hush hush, so I won't go into the details but there is beer chugging involved.
I forgot the camera so I didn't take any pictures but the Hash House Harriers have a website with some pictures posted. Not the greatest pictures, but if you want to see them here's a link.
The pics are really small and get fuzzy when made bigger. Itchy and our friends are in one of the pics. Take a look at the background picture.
Itchy and I went on our first ever Hash yesterday. That's how I made my discovery. It was fun but I wasn't sure I was going to make it. That first hill was brutal. I think we'll probably do it again.
A hash, for those who aren't familiar, is a fun run/walk. The island has a Hash House Harriers group which is a drinking club for people with a running problem. Yep, you run or walk (we walked) the trail that they have set and then, upon completion, you drink. Good times had by all.
This trail was not the easiest (some are easier than others, so we've been told). It was also not the cleanest. At the beginning of the trail we had to cross the mud flats. The stinky, stinky mud flats. With the flies. There were millions of flies. I'm not sure how to describe the mud flats. It feels like you are walking on a sponge (or a bog if you've ever done that). There are parts that are more stable than others. Then there are parts that you just sink knee deep in mud. And lose your shoe. Or lose your balance and go face first into the awful smelling mud. We had the choice to cross over the middle or take the rocks along the side and then make a 4 foot jump across. Itchy and I took the rocks. I made it out fairly clean but Itchy ended up knee deep in mud. We all smelled like shit for the remainder of the walk.
After the mud we had to walk up a hill. This is when I thought I'd die. It was steep. We were walking fast to catch up with the group. I just couldn't catch my breath. Terrible. Thus the need for a new workout. Once we caught up with the group, slowed down a bit, I was able to catch my breath and have fun. It was fun. We didn't finish dead last either!
After the walk we had the drinking. Everyone gathers at the end of trail for beer and burgers. There's soda (but no water!) for those who don't want beer and the kiddies. Yes, kids are welcome to do the trail as well. Then they have the Virgin initiation (first time Hashers) and the awards ceremonies. It seems as though the virgin initiation is suppose to be hush hush, so I won't go into the details but there is beer chugging involved.
I forgot the camera so I didn't take any pictures but the Hash House Harriers have a website with some pictures posted. Not the greatest pictures, but if you want to see them here's a link.
The pics are really small and get fuzzy when made bigger. Itchy and our friends are in one of the pics. Take a look at the background picture.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Patches is joining me
We've made the decision for her. She has been quite vocal in her attempt to protest this. Unfortunately for her she has no say in this.
Itchy and I have decided (well, I decided and Itchy is going along with it because he knows I am right) that it is time for Patches to make lifestyle changes. She's been overweight almost her entire life. We made excuses for her: oh poor Patches, she was the runt of the litter and the whole litter nearly starved to death before being rescued, that's why she is always hungry; maybe she has a glandular problem; and my favorite, she isn't that fat, she just has a lot of hair. Let's face it though, the girl just loves food. She over eats. It's time for that to change.
We've had her on a few diets for the last 2 years. We started with a 'light' food. She gained weight. Then about a year ago, we switched her to a prescription weight loss food, it's the lowest calorie/fat food that we can get for her. She has gained more weight. Apparently diets don't work for cats either. So she is joining me in making lifestyle changes. No, she won't be going to the gym with me, but her world is changing.
The changes are a rough draft. Changes will and can still be made. She will still get 4 small meals a day (better than 2 large meals). The amount of food will not change yet (we've been feeding for ideal weight as it is). I think our main problem is that she is eating most of Cuddles' food. Their dishes were in the other room, so it was hard to monitor. Now they are in the kitchen where I can watch her every move. Their dishes will be put away except for mealtime. She will not be able to graze all day. This is the first step. I'm not sure what the next steps will be but that's the beauty of a rough draft.
Today she weighed t pounds (even cats don't like to share their weights online). Our ideal weight for her is t-5 pounds but we will be happy with t-3 pounds. I myself am trying to lose 10 pounds. I've made each of us a ticker, maybe this will be motivating. This is going to be hard for both of us.
Itchy and I have decided (well, I decided and Itchy is going along with it because he knows I am right) that it is time for Patches to make lifestyle changes. She's been overweight almost her entire life. We made excuses for her: oh poor Patches, she was the runt of the litter and the whole litter nearly starved to death before being rescued, that's why she is always hungry; maybe she has a glandular problem; and my favorite, she isn't that fat, she just has a lot of hair. Let's face it though, the girl just loves food. She over eats. It's time for that to change.
We've had her on a few diets for the last 2 years. We started with a 'light' food. She gained weight. Then about a year ago, we switched her to a prescription weight loss food, it's the lowest calorie/fat food that we can get for her. She has gained more weight. Apparently diets don't work for cats either. So she is joining me in making lifestyle changes. No, she won't be going to the gym with me, but her world is changing.
The changes are a rough draft. Changes will and can still be made. She will still get 4 small meals a day (better than 2 large meals). The amount of food will not change yet (we've been feeding for ideal weight as it is). I think our main problem is that she is eating most of Cuddles' food. Their dishes were in the other room, so it was hard to monitor. Now they are in the kitchen where I can watch her every move. Their dishes will be put away except for mealtime. She will not be able to graze all day. This is the first step. I'm not sure what the next steps will be but that's the beauty of a rough draft.
Today she weighed t pounds (even cats don't like to share their weights online). Our ideal weight for her is t-5 pounds but we will be happy with t-3 pounds. I myself am trying to lose 10 pounds. I've made each of us a ticker, maybe this will be motivating. This is going to be hard for both of us.
Back from the dead
Itchy is feeling better. The medication seems to be working. Still not back to his normal self, but at least he isn't as grumpy.
Things are changing
Our neighbors (C, his wife W, and their toddler V) are leaving the island in 20 some days. This time is different though. This time I won't be watching their pets. This time Itchy and I won't be driving them to the airport. That's because this time, they won't be coming back. C is in 7th semester. They get to move back to the states. We're going to get new neighbors.
Itchy and I aren't really that close to them, but it's going to be weird. They've been our neighbors from the very beginning. They took us to our very first school party. They warned us about our weirdo landlady. They've helped us out when our stupid car was in the shop (technically, some guy's backyard). We've always watched their pets when they've been gone and they watched ours. I was the very first babysitter that little V ever had. They've been good neighbors.
We've heard that 2 guys (both students) will be moving in. This could be interesting.
Itchy and I aren't really that close to them, but it's going to be weird. They've been our neighbors from the very beginning. They took us to our very first school party. They warned us about our weirdo landlady. They've helped us out when our stupid car was in the shop (technically, some guy's backyard). We've always watched their pets when they've been gone and they watched ours. I was the very first babysitter that little V ever had. They've been good neighbors.
We've heard that 2 guys (both students) will be moving in. This could be interesting.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Get better already
Geez, Itchy. Would you get better already!
Itchy is still sick. It's been 5 days. He claims that this is the longest he's ever been sick. Not entirely true, I've seen him sick longer but he was feeling better each day instead of getting worse. Either way, he looks like crap.
He went to a doctor this afternoon. I went with, being the loving girlfriend that I am. At first the doctor said that he could probably tough it out. Since Itchy's temp was on the high side of normal, he prescribed an antibiotic and a cough medicine to be taken in addition to an over the counter multi-symptom cold medication.
Itchy was trying to get out of taking all of that. He doesn't like to take any medication. I told Itchy that he needs it to feel better. He didn't want to take the cough medicine. Too bad dude. Not coughing will make you feel better. The OTC stuff will help clear your head. Take it and shut up. It's tough love people. I do it because I love him.
He already is feeling better. An afternoon on the couch and a bellyful of meds seems to be doing the trick. We're having dinner tonight with a friend and her parents, so he'll get a good meal (i.e. not microwaved).
Itchy is still sick. It's been 5 days. He claims that this is the longest he's ever been sick. Not entirely true, I've seen him sick longer but he was feeling better each day instead of getting worse. Either way, he looks like crap.
He went to a doctor this afternoon. I went with, being the loving girlfriend that I am. At first the doctor said that he could probably tough it out. Since Itchy's temp was on the high side of normal, he prescribed an antibiotic and a cough medicine to be taken in addition to an over the counter multi-symptom cold medication.
Itchy was trying to get out of taking all of that. He doesn't like to take any medication. I told Itchy that he needs it to feel better. He didn't want to take the cough medicine. Too bad dude. Not coughing will make you feel better. The OTC stuff will help clear your head. Take it and shut up. It's tough love people. I do it because I love him.
He already is feeling better. An afternoon on the couch and a bellyful of meds seems to be doing the trick. We're having dinner tonight with a friend and her parents, so he'll get a good meal (i.e. not microwaved).
Monday, March 24, 2008
Hurricane Dean
I read an article today in our local paper (online, of course, with my internet addiction what did you expect?). There is a gas shortage on our sister island. People waited in line for hours to put gas in their cars. With their cars running no doubt. This will probably affect the island I'm on soon enough. The shortage is due to rough seas. When everything has to be delivered by boat, rough seas are a problem. This reminded me of what happened last August.
There's a reason that most people don't go to the Caribbean in the fall. It's called Hurricane Season. Hurricanes are a real risk for those of us living down here. Not only do they do serious damage to the islands but necessities can become scarce.
Last August we watched Tropical Storm Dean head straight for us. Models were projecting that it would hit us dead on. We watched it develop into a Category 3 hurricane (by the time it was all over it was a Category 5 storm but at the time it crossed the Lesser Antilles it was only a 3). Models kept changing but it looked like it was turning a little to the south. Maybe it wouldn't hit it after all. We were told to prepare. Even though the eye of the storm probably wouldn't hit our island, we were to expect strong winds and heavy rain. Basically, a tropical storm.
This was our first Hurricane Season. We probably over prepared. I'm ok with that. We made a list. We looked at the lists online. We bought non-perishable food. We bought first aid items. The one thing we didn't have was bottled water.
After a storm it's not really safe to drink tap water. If you have any running water at all. It's not advisable to drink the tap water here anyway. Unless you want to get sick. We always buy bottled water. So it wasn't like we didn't have *any* water, but we didn't have the 7-10 days supply (per person) that is recommended. It was more like 2-3 days. For both of us and the cats. Yeah, we prepared for them too. Of course.
The reason for our lack of water? There was no bottled water. The stores sold out. Quickly. When would they be getting more? Would they be getting more? Umm, well, you see the water is bottled here on the island. We don't actually import the water. Just the bottles. But the company that bottles the water ran out of bottles. The bottles were coming on a ship. But because rough seas (due to the hurricane) the bottles could not be delivered. No bottles=no bottled water. The company that bottles the water SHUT DOWN. They would reopen once the bottles were delivered.
It's not like we had options. We just had to accept the fact that we would have next to no water if the hurricane hit us. Why yes, it was annoying. I guess we would have boiled water on the grill (we have a small grill and had lots of charcoal and waterproof matches) if we had to.
We got lucky. Hurricane Dean hit an island about 150 miles to our south. We had tropical storm strength winds. For about a day. We went to the beach to get pictures. It was windy, raining, and cold. We lost power for most of the day. Could have been a lot worse.
There's a reason that most people don't go to the Caribbean in the fall. It's called Hurricane Season. Hurricanes are a real risk for those of us living down here. Not only do they do serious damage to the islands but necessities can become scarce.
Last August we watched Tropical Storm Dean head straight for us. Models were projecting that it would hit us dead on. We watched it develop into a Category 3 hurricane (by the time it was all over it was a Category 5 storm but at the time it crossed the Lesser Antilles it was only a 3). Models kept changing but it looked like it was turning a little to the south. Maybe it wouldn't hit it after all. We were told to prepare. Even though the eye of the storm probably wouldn't hit our island, we were to expect strong winds and heavy rain. Basically, a tropical storm.
This was our first Hurricane Season. We probably over prepared. I'm ok with that. We made a list. We looked at the lists online. We bought non-perishable food. We bought first aid items. The one thing we didn't have was bottled water.
After a storm it's not really safe to drink tap water. If you have any running water at all. It's not advisable to drink the tap water here anyway. Unless you want to get sick. We always buy bottled water. So it wasn't like we didn't have *any* water, but we didn't have the 7-10 days supply (per person) that is recommended. It was more like 2-3 days. For both of us and the cats. Yeah, we prepared for them too. Of course.
The reason for our lack of water? There was no bottled water. The stores sold out. Quickly. When would they be getting more? Would they be getting more? Umm, well, you see the water is bottled here on the island. We don't actually import the water. Just the bottles. But the company that bottles the water ran out of bottles. The bottles were coming on a ship. But because rough seas (due to the hurricane) the bottles could not be delivered. No bottles=no bottled water. The company that bottles the water SHUT DOWN. They would reopen once the bottles were delivered.
It's not like we had options. We just had to accept the fact that we would have next to no water if the hurricane hit us. Why yes, it was annoying. I guess we would have boiled water on the grill (we have a small grill and had lots of charcoal and waterproof matches) if we had to.
We got lucky. Hurricane Dean hit an island about 150 miles to our south. We had tropical storm strength winds. For about a day. We went to the beach to get pictures. It was windy, raining, and cold. We lost power for most of the day. Could have been a lot worse.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
I expected more
It was a drama filled morning. Who knew flag football could be so dramatic? Itchy's team was undefeated. Team R was undefeated. They were playing each other for the number 1 spot. How exciting!
Itchy and I got to the field to set up early as we always do. Itchy's game was in the second set of games today so we were just going to watch the team B vs team S game. The winner of that game would also make it to the playoffs. Should have been a good game. They are pretty evenly matched teams. Notice I said should of been a good game. It wasn't played. Players from both teams decided without talking to everyone on their teams that they would reschedule the game. They had a 7th semester banquet. It's tradition. It's kind of their send off. They knew that everyone at that party would be hung over and in no condition to play football. Rescheduling would not have been a problem if everyone had been contacted (including Itchy, as he does have to find a field and refs). But not everyone was told about the reschedule. So 6 guys from team S showed up ready to play. One girl from team B showed up.
Team S was pissed. They thought that team B should forfeit. Even though it was people from team S that told people that the game had been rescheduled. This would have been far from fair. The guys from team S do not know when to shut up. Itchy was getting upset. Itchy is a very fair guy though, so he wanted to just reschedule the game. Because there was so much confusion and a huge misunderstanding (people assuming the game had been rescheduled) he offered team S and the one person from team B a solution. The game could be rescheduled for Friday night, right before the semifinal games. Whoever wins gets to play in the playoffs. Perfect right? Well, not. Team S is apparently the most immature team in the league. They did not want to play. They wanted the win by way of forfeit. Wow. Who chooses that? They wouldn't shut up. They just kept on bitching. This really irritated Itchy. He gave them the chance to act like grown ups and they choose to be whiny little bitches. Itchy then said that if they could put their team on the field right then, he would allow a forfeit.
League rules clearly state that a GIRL must be on the field for each and every play. Team S had no girls from their team show up. Their quarterback's girlfriend was there and they volunteered her. Itchy was having none of it. She hasn't played a single game all season and had only been to maybe 2 other games. Itchy said "she's not on your roster, you have no girl". Itchy said that if they were going to act this way than he would be forced to act accordingly. Therefore, it would have to be a double forfeit. They left all pissed off at Itchy.
Now, who acts that way? These are all people from Itchy's school or spouses of people at his school. This isn't middle school. This is professional school. Grow up. Have they heard of being good sport? You are offered a rescheduled game time, you take it. Who wants to get a win because of a misunderstanding? What fun is that? Grow up people. Just grow up.
Anyway. Itchy's team WON!!! They are undefeated. They will have the number 1 spot for playoffs. Itchy couldn't do much because he still isn't feeling well, but just being there helped them out a lot. It gave other guys a chance to rest. It was a close game. Team R is a good team. Itchy's team was down 21-18 and they scored a touchdown. It was 21-24 with about a minute left. Team R had the ball. Their quarterback threw it long, for the touchdown and the game, but it was intercepted by a guy on Itchy's team! YAY!
ETA: Itchy rescheduled the game for Friday night, as he originally planned, and his team will play the winner.
Itchy and I got to the field to set up early as we always do. Itchy's game was in the second set of games today so we were just going to watch the team B vs team S game. The winner of that game would also make it to the playoffs. Should have been a good game. They are pretty evenly matched teams. Notice I said should of been a good game. It wasn't played. Players from both teams decided without talking to everyone on their teams that they would reschedule the game. They had a 7th semester banquet. It's tradition. It's kind of their send off. They knew that everyone at that party would be hung over and in no condition to play football. Rescheduling would not have been a problem if everyone had been contacted (including Itchy, as he does have to find a field and refs). But not everyone was told about the reschedule. So 6 guys from team S showed up ready to play. One girl from team B showed up.
Team S was pissed. They thought that team B should forfeit. Even though it was people from team S that told people that the game had been rescheduled. This would have been far from fair. The guys from team S do not know when to shut up. Itchy was getting upset. Itchy is a very fair guy though, so he wanted to just reschedule the game. Because there was so much confusion and a huge misunderstanding (people assuming the game had been rescheduled) he offered team S and the one person from team B a solution. The game could be rescheduled for Friday night, right before the semifinal games. Whoever wins gets to play in the playoffs. Perfect right? Well, not. Team S is apparently the most immature team in the league. They did not want to play. They wanted the win by way of forfeit. Wow. Who chooses that? They wouldn't shut up. They just kept on bitching. This really irritated Itchy. He gave them the chance to act like grown ups and they choose to be whiny little bitches. Itchy then said that if they could put their team on the field right then, he would allow a forfeit.
League rules clearly state that a GIRL must be on the field for each and every play. Team S had no girls from their team show up. Their quarterback's girlfriend was there and they volunteered her. Itchy was having none of it. She hasn't played a single game all season and had only been to maybe 2 other games. Itchy said "she's not on your roster, you have no girl". Itchy said that if they were going to act this way than he would be forced to act accordingly. Therefore, it would have to be a double forfeit. They left all pissed off at Itchy.
Now, who acts that way? These are all people from Itchy's school or spouses of people at his school. This isn't middle school. This is professional school. Grow up. Have they heard of being good sport? You are offered a rescheduled game time, you take it. Who wants to get a win because of a misunderstanding? What fun is that? Grow up people. Just grow up.
Anyway. Itchy's team WON!!! They are undefeated. They will have the number 1 spot for playoffs. Itchy couldn't do much because he still isn't feeling well, but just being there helped them out a lot. It gave other guys a chance to rest. It was a close game. Team R is a good team. Itchy's team was down 21-18 and they scored a touchdown. It was 21-24 with about a minute left. Team R had the ball. Their quarterback threw it long, for the touchdown and the game, but it was intercepted by a guy on Itchy's team! YAY!
ETA: Itchy rescheduled the game for Friday night, as he originally planned, and his team will play the winner.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Superior immune system, bunnies, and basketball
Itchy has always told me that his immune system is superior to mine. He was wrong. He is still sick and I am better. I don't feel sick at all. I had a headache that made me want to kill people this morning but a handful of Advil took care of that. Itchy is still feeling yucky. I have the superior immune system this time!
I talked to Sunshine today. I scared her with my knowledge of the Pagans. Did you all know that the reason we have an Easter bunny is because of the Pagans? Pagans have a festival for their goddesses Oestre (spelling varies depending on your source, it's pronounced much like Easter) on the vernal equinox. Oestre's favorite animal was the rabbit (or hare). The Pagan festival coincides with the timing of Easter. The Christian's 'borrowed' the rabbit as a symbol of their holiday. Just as they derived the name of their holiday. There you go Sunshine, a more thorough explanation. I just couldn't text all of that to you.
Not much going on. We've got rainy and cold weather. Itchy is still sick. Nothing on the island is open except the churches. So we sit here watching the Big Dance. March Madness. I am part of a bracket thingy for the very first time. I'll let you know if I win. It's unlikely, but anything can happen.
I talked to Sunshine today. I scared her with my knowledge of the Pagans. Did you all know that the reason we have an Easter bunny is because of the Pagans? Pagans have a festival for their goddesses Oestre (spelling varies depending on your source, it's pronounced much like Easter) on the vernal equinox. Oestre's favorite animal was the rabbit (or hare). The Pagan festival coincides with the timing of Easter. The Christian's 'borrowed' the rabbit as a symbol of their holiday. Just as they derived the name of their holiday. There you go Sunshine, a more thorough explanation. I just couldn't text all of that to you.
Not much going on. We've got rainy and cold weather. Itchy is still sick. Nothing on the island is open except the churches. So we sit here watching the Big Dance. March Madness. I am part of a bracket thingy for the very first time. I'll let you know if I win. It's unlikely, but anything can happen.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Feedback
I asked for help making a decision regarding travel. I've gotten a couple of responses. I've also made a few decisions. I'm ruling out the December trip. I know, I know. It was the most logical choice. Itchy's parents will be here. Which means that I can't be. I have a plan though. Many students leave over break (which is when Itchy's parents will be here). Many of them have pets, dogs in particular. They will need dog sitters. I could be a live in dog sitter. I'll have a place to stay and people might pay me.
So it's between summer and fall. I've got more specific dates in mind. I've found decent (read still expensive) flights for both trips.
The feedback has leaned toward the summer trip. Sunshine said that she isn't going anywhere and has no plans. She would also like to do some camping.
Eldest (sorry, I don't think she likes Warden. I doubt she'll like Eldest either, but she is the eldest child.) has vacation plans. It does interfere with my original dates, but I can make adjustments.
Keeper (aka mom) has said come any time.
At this point I am leaning towards the summer trip.
So it's between summer and fall. I've got more specific dates in mind. I've found decent (read still expensive) flights for both trips.
The feedback has leaned toward the summer trip. Sunshine said that she isn't going anywhere and has no plans. She would also like to do some camping.
Eldest (sorry, I don't think she likes Warden. I doubt she'll like Eldest either, but she is the eldest child.) has vacation plans. It does interfere with my original dates, but I can make adjustments.
Keeper (aka mom) has said come any time.
At this point I am leaning towards the summer trip.
Nice knowing all of you
Itchy and I feel like we are dying. We both woke up feeling like absolute crap this morning. At just a little after 5 am. I believe Itchy will die first as he seems worse off. He owes me $2o (US) for getting him Tylenol and water this morning. He better pay before he dies.
It's like a bad combo of the flu and a cold. Sore throats, fevers, general weakness, and everything aches. I've got a bit of a cough as well.
Itchy stayed home from school. We're having a lazy day.
It's like a bad combo of the flu and a cold. Sore throats, fevers, general weakness, and everything aches. I've got a bit of a cough as well.
Itchy stayed home from school. We're having a lazy day.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Easter fun
Remember this? Yeah, it was worse than I thought.
Itchy and I had to go to the grocery store today. We are low on food and nothing will be open this weekend. We knew it would be bad. This exceeded my expectations. There were so many people. The lines for the checkouts went halfway down the aisles. It was crazy.
First up was Rams. We were lucky enough to get a parking spot in the parking lot. We had to wait for a cart though. Actual shopping took way longer than it should have. Itchy had to wait at the end of the aisles because there was no way to get a cart down the aisle, so he would wait there and I would go get the stuff we needed. Then it was time to wait in line. And wait. And wait some more. We stood in line for almost 45 minutes. 45 minutes people.
We brought those groceries home, put our now warm groceries in the fridge and headed off to IGA. Because we can't get everything at one store. It's not like these are specialty stores either. They are regular grocery stores but they carry very different things. Sure, there is some overlap, but we generally have to go to both stores for our groceries.
So we get to IGA and get lucky with a parking space again. It seems just as busy. We spend little time shopping. Just pick up the things we need. Then we wait in line. Again. For 30 minutes. Let's just say that our frozen goods were no longer frozen. But hey, it's not like this is the first time they have thawed and then been refrozen!
I miss Cub. And Super Target.
Itchy and I had to go to the grocery store today. We are low on food and nothing will be open this weekend. We knew it would be bad. This exceeded my expectations. There were so many people. The lines for the checkouts went halfway down the aisles. It was crazy.
First up was Rams. We were lucky enough to get a parking spot in the parking lot. We had to wait for a cart though. Actual shopping took way longer than it should have. Itchy had to wait at the end of the aisles because there was no way to get a cart down the aisle, so he would wait there and I would go get the stuff we needed. Then it was time to wait in line. And wait. And wait some more. We stood in line for almost 45 minutes. 45 minutes people.
We brought those groceries home, put our now warm groceries in the fridge and headed off to IGA. Because we can't get everything at one store. It's not like these are specialty stores either. They are regular grocery stores but they carry very different things. Sure, there is some overlap, but we generally have to go to both stores for our groceries.
So we get to IGA and get lucky with a parking space again. It seems just as busy. We spend little time shopping. Just pick up the things we need. Then we wait in line. Again. For 30 minutes. Let's just say that our frozen goods were no longer frozen. But hey, it's not like this is the first time they have thawed and then been refrozen!
I miss Cub. And Super Target.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Are you American Indian?
Today is Wednesday. Otherwise known as Meat Day. You know, the day we buy meat. Out of the back of a van. In a parking lot. Ghetto? Um, could it get any more ghetto?
Let me explain, we'll focus on red meat this time. The meat at the grocery store is nasty. All of the meat is frozen, thawed, and then refrozen. Multiple times. It looks gross, not that raw meat looks tasty anyway. It smells. Frozen meat should not smell. Obviously, we do not purchase meat from the grocery store. I do not like food borne illnesses.
Itchy's school knows that meat at the grocery store is gross. They don't want to buy it either. They made arrangements with a local butcher. He brings freshly butchered beef to campus almost every Wednesday. In his van.
I went with Itchy to purchase meat today. We wanted steaks. Itchy knows nothing about steaks except that he likes to eat them. I don't know much, but let's face it, I learned how to judge sides of beef so I have some experience. As I was looking at the cooler full of steaks in the back of the van, the meat guy asks me if I am American Indian. I say no, not to my knowledge. He says that I look like an American Indian.
What about me looks Native American? Is it the hair? It's long and dark but has blondish highlights right now. I am a bit tan right now (going to the beach every weekend will do that), but I still look very white. Especially standing next to Itchy. I was in high school when the Disney movie Pocahontas came out. I had waist length dark hair at the time. Guess what I was nicknamed? Guess what song people sang in the hallways when I walked by? I can still hear "just around the river bend" in my sleep.
We did get some pretty good steaks though. I think I'll grill them next week.
ETA: Itchy and I don't really like red meat. We'd prefer to get ground turkey but you can't buy that here. We really don't eat red meat that often. Also, I am not offended by the Native American thing, but it makes me wonder why it happens so often.
Let me explain, we'll focus on red meat this time. The meat at the grocery store is nasty. All of the meat is frozen, thawed, and then refrozen. Multiple times. It looks gross, not that raw meat looks tasty anyway. It smells. Frozen meat should not smell. Obviously, we do not purchase meat from the grocery store. I do not like food borne illnesses.
Itchy's school knows that meat at the grocery store is gross. They don't want to buy it either. They made arrangements with a local butcher. He brings freshly butchered beef to campus almost every Wednesday. In his van.
I went with Itchy to purchase meat today. We wanted steaks. Itchy knows nothing about steaks except that he likes to eat them. I don't know much, but let's face it, I learned how to judge sides of beef so I have some experience. As I was looking at the cooler full of steaks in the back of the van, the meat guy asks me if I am American Indian. I say no, not to my knowledge. He says that I look like an American Indian.
What about me looks Native American? Is it the hair? It's long and dark but has blondish highlights right now. I am a bit tan right now (going to the beach every weekend will do that), but I still look very white. Especially standing next to Itchy. I was in high school when the Disney movie Pocahontas came out. I had waist length dark hair at the time. Guess what I was nicknamed? Guess what song people sang in the hallways when I walked by? I can still hear "just around the river bend" in my sleep.
We did get some pretty good steaks though. I think I'll grill them next week.
ETA: Itchy and I don't really like red meat. We'd prefer to get ground turkey but you can't buy that here. We really don't eat red meat that often. Also, I am not offended by the Native American thing, but it makes me wonder why it happens so often.
In other news
PSA: Easter is this Sunday (23rd).
Grocery stores (all 3 of them) will be closed Friday, Sunday, and Monday. They will be open Saturday morning but will have limited selection after they are raided on Thursday.
The gym will be open from 9:30 am to noon on Friday, but will be closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Stores and restaurants will be open at the discretion of the owners. Which means they will be closed Fri, Sat, Sun, and Monday.
Gas stations are iffy at best so fill your tank now.
What? This doesn't happen where you live? What are you talking about? They only close for the one day? Well consider yourselves lucky. This is what happens on the island.
Grocery stores (all 3 of them) will be closed Friday, Sunday, and Monday. They will be open Saturday morning but will have limited selection after they are raided on Thursday.
The gym will be open from 9:30 am to noon on Friday, but will be closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Stores and restaurants will be open at the discretion of the owners. Which means they will be closed Fri, Sat, Sun, and Monday.
Gas stations are iffy at best so fill your tank now.
What? This doesn't happen where you live? What are you talking about? They only close for the one day? Well consider yourselves lucky. This is what happens on the island.
Is it any wonder?
Why can't I make microwave microwave popcorn? I burn it Every.Single.Time. It's awful. Only half the bag ever pops and then half of what did pop is burnt. That leaves me with about a 1/4 of the bag. Which is all I need, but man, what if Itchy wanted some?
It's not like I can't cook either. I can make a lasagna that is so good that even people who don't like lasagna want my recipe (it's a family secret that I can't share). I'm even working on a white lasagna recipe that has had some very tasty results thus far. I've got an idea for a cheesecake that makes my mouth freaking water. My turkey burgers are delicious. So are my BBQ chicken sandwiches. Don't even get me started on the enchiladas. Point is, I can cook.
I wanted a snack this evening. I skipped lunch. I was still hungry. Options are limited. Apple or popcorn? I'm think about making apple crisp tomorrow, so I went for the popcorn.
I burned it. I hate that smell. I have 2 candles burning now (strawberry and cupcake, mmm!). For what it's worth, the 1/2 cup of popcorn that I did have was really good.
It's not like I can't cook either. I can make a lasagna that is so good that even people who don't like lasagna want my recipe (it's a family secret that I can't share). I'm even working on a white lasagna recipe that has had some very tasty results thus far. I've got an idea for a cheesecake that makes my mouth freaking water. My turkey burgers are delicious. So are my BBQ chicken sandwiches. Don't even get me started on the enchiladas. Point is, I can cook.
I wanted a snack this evening. I skipped lunch. I was still hungry. Options are limited. Apple or popcorn? I'm think about making apple crisp tomorrow, so I went for the popcorn.
I burned it. I hate that smell. I have 2 candles burning now (strawberry and cupcake, mmm!). For what it's worth, the 1/2 cup of popcorn that I did have was really good.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
So many decisions
I have to start making decisions regarding my upcoming travel plans. Soon. Last time was easy. Itchy's best friend was getting married. Itchy was in the wedding. He had to be there. I wanted to be there. They set the date, I booked the flight. Done and done.
Thing is I have only one more trip back to the States before leaving the island once and for all. It's all I can afford, with the not working and what not. There are no weddings this time. No dates set. No flights booked. There has been talk of a baptism but no date has been set. I have been told that a date could be set with regard to my travel plans. I have several dates in mind. There are pros and cons to every one of them. Let's discuss them here.
Let's start with an early summer visit (thinking end of June/early July):
Pros: nieces are on summer vacation; I'd get to spend time with them; it's not cold; stores are selling summery clothes-which I need down here, there's still a year left; if I am lucky, someone may take me camping; if not, I can camp in the backyard; and it's not cold (counts twice).
Cons: Several dates are blacked out (Itchy and I have plans) making it difficult to find the right dates; people may be planning their own vacations and I don't want to get in the way but I don't want to be there if they will be out of town-what's the point if I don't get to see people; no football game with my dad (not set in stone anyway, but it would be really fun); and flights are expensive.
An October visit:
Pros: People are less likely to be on vacation; football game; summery clothes are on clearance; it's not a busy time of year; I love the fall; last time I was able to attend a couple of school programs with my nieces, that was really special for me, maybe it'd happen again; and cheaper flights.
Cons: Nieces are back in school so less time with them; summery clothes are on sale but less to choose from; and it's cold and getting colder.
A December visit:
Pros: Itchy's parents will probably be here so I'll need to be out of the apartment anyway; I'd be there for xmas; nieces are on xmas vacation so more time with them; and I could bring back some stuff we don't use often so we wouldn't have to ship everything back to the States in a few months.
Cons: Everyone is really busy because it's xmas; flights are more expensive; IT'S REALLY COLD and I am a wuss; leaving in December would mean that I spent 15 months on the island without leaving, I might go crazy; and it's really, really cold.
I know, I know. Shouldn't we all have problems as stressful as this. Don't worry I've got myself stressed out over "the big move" back. That's another post all together.
Any advice? Anything to add to the pros and cons? Anyone have major plans already set (like you'll be out of town for 2 weeks in June)? No need for your answer if I don't know you (no offense meant to the lurking readers- I know you're there because I use site meter). Feel free to use the comments section or email me directly.
ETA: I know December seems obvious because of Itchy's parents (I owe you a post about that). I already have another place to stay. I can bring all things girly with me.
ETAA: If you want to attach your name to your comments in the comment section, click on comment (at the bottom of the post), type your comment in the box, select Name/URL and type your name there (no need for a URL), click on Publish your comments and you're done!
Thing is I have only one more trip back to the States before leaving the island once and for all. It's all I can afford, with the not working and what not. There are no weddings this time. No dates set. No flights booked. There has been talk of a baptism but no date has been set. I have been told that a date could be set with regard to my travel plans. I have several dates in mind. There are pros and cons to every one of them. Let's discuss them here.
Let's start with an early summer visit (thinking end of June/early July):
Pros: nieces are on summer vacation; I'd get to spend time with them; it's not cold; stores are selling summery clothes-which I need down here, there's still a year left; if I am lucky, someone may take me camping; if not, I can camp in the backyard; and it's not cold (counts twice).
Cons: Several dates are blacked out (Itchy and I have plans) making it difficult to find the right dates; people may be planning their own vacations and I don't want to get in the way but I don't want to be there if they will be out of town-what's the point if I don't get to see people; no football game with my dad (not set in stone anyway, but it would be really fun); and flights are expensive.
An October visit:
Pros: People are less likely to be on vacation; football game; summery clothes are on clearance; it's not a busy time of year; I love the fall; last time I was able to attend a couple of school programs with my nieces, that was really special for me, maybe it'd happen again; and cheaper flights.
Cons: Nieces are back in school so less time with them; summery clothes are on sale but less to choose from; and it's cold and getting colder.
A December visit:
Pros: Itchy's parents will probably be here so I'll need to be out of the apartment anyway; I'd be there for xmas; nieces are on xmas vacation so more time with them; and I could bring back some stuff we don't use often so we wouldn't have to ship everything back to the States in a few months.
Cons: Everyone is really busy because it's xmas; flights are more expensive; IT'S REALLY COLD and I am a wuss; leaving in December would mean that I spent 15 months on the island without leaving, I might go crazy; and it's really, really cold.
I know, I know. Shouldn't we all have problems as stressful as this. Don't worry I've got myself stressed out over "the big move" back. That's another post all together.
Any advice? Anything to add to the pros and cons? Anyone have major plans already set (like you'll be out of town for 2 weeks in June)? No need for your answer if I don't know you (no offense meant to the lurking readers- I know you're there because I use site meter). Feel free to use the comments section or email me directly.
ETA: I know December seems obvious because of Itchy's parents (I owe you a post about that). I already have another place to stay. I can bring all things girly with me.
ETAA: If you want to attach your name to your comments in the comment section, click on comment (at the bottom of the post), type your comment in the box, select Name/URL and type your name there (no need for a URL), click on Publish your comments and you're done!
You know what sucks?
Not having a stove or an oven. Apparently, it is up to us to arrange for the cooking gas refill. Why do we pay a fuel charge on our electricity bill? Is it not for fuel? What else could it be? I'm pretty sure we are getting ripped off. Again.
Itchy and I are eternally grateful for the toaster oven that was gifted to us by my mom.
I've been fairly creative. We've have decent food thus far. I've got ideas for the next few days. However, I want my stove back!
Did I mention that the only place that we can purchase more cooking gas is OUT OF GAS? They have no idea when they might have more.
Itchy and I are eternally grateful for the toaster oven that was gifted to us by my mom.
I've been fairly creative. We've have decent food thus far. I've got ideas for the next few days. However, I want my stove back!
Did I mention that the only place that we can purchase more cooking gas is OUT OF GAS? They have no idea when they might have more.
Monday, March 17, 2008
The Big 0-5
Happy Birthday Cuddles! It's his 5th birthday. That makes him about 25 in human years (I'm still older). He certainly doesn't act his age. That boy still has a lot of kitten left in him. He still loves a good game of fetch (even if he doesn't bring the giraffe all the way back like he used to-he was target trained before Patches came around). Itchy and I predict that he will live a very long life and grow into a very handsome old man. I can only hope that this is true.
I thought I'd write about how he came to live with us today, in honor of his birthday (in accordance with his new contract). It all started when I decided that I wanted a dog. However, living in a tiny "no pets allowed" apartment put a damper on that idea. I figured a cat would do until I could find a better place. I talked to Itchy. He seemed hesitant, but excited. He had never had pets before.
On December 19th 2003, Itchy and I headed off to the local humane society. We got lost on the way there. We thought that it might be a sign that maybe we shouldn't get a cat. We almost turned around to go home. At that point, with an empty kitty kennel in the backseat (we were prepared), we saw the street leading to the shelter.
It was about an hour or so before closing. We went straight to the cat room. A very nice volunteer (Nancy-I got to know her well a few months later when I started working at the shelter) asked what we were looking for. We didn't want a kitten but we wanted a younger cat that was still playful. Nancy said that there were lots of those and to take some time and look around. If we had any questions she would help us. We started with the wall of cages. We saw a beautiful young gray tabby. We looked at each other and *thought* we had found our cat.
The instant we opened that cage we knew we were wrong. That beautiful little bastard scratched at both of us and bit Itchy's finger. Nancy saw us and warned that that cat is a little aggressive. Ok, next. We didn't want a cat that was going to be mean or destroy our stuff. We split up and continued our search. Most of the cats were sleeping and not interested. Itchy and I took another cat into the visitation room. This cat wanted nothing to do with us. She walked around and tried to get out of the room. Perhaps she would have warmed up but she didn't seem to like us at all. We put her back in her cage and accidentally broke her toy. We both felt really bad but it's not like she was playing with it anyway (don't feel too bad, the cats get a different toy everyday when their cages are cleaned).
Then Itchy saw him. He was curled up, asleep in his litter box. Itchy took him out and brought him into the visitation room. Itchy came and got me. We spent about 10 minutes hanging out with him. He was rubbing up against our legs, smelling us, and letting us pet him. The only information that they had for him was that he was a neutered (very recently) male, about 9 months old. He had been given up by his previous owners because "he was too much work". He had lived with children and other pets. We were pretty sure that he was the one. We just wanted one more look around to make sure. We went to put him back in his cage and he starting meowing. He had been very quiet up until then. But he was yelling now and standing on his back legs, sticking his arm out between the bars. After that, there was no questioning that he was the one. We didn't need to go look around. He had picked us. He wanted to go home with us.
I opened the cage and picked him up. We walked out to the adoption desk. I held him while Itchy filled out the paperwork (we had to use his address since my apartment was no pets- yeah I broke the lease, big deal). Cuddles fell asleep in my arms.
He's been with us ever since. We had a bit of a rough start with him. The transition into our lives was never a problem for him, but he had caught a kitty cold before he left the shelter. He was so congested that he wouldn't eat (some cats won't eat if they can't smell their food), he had an eye infection, and the incision from his neuter ended up becoming infected.
After a brief return visit to the shelter, a stay at Itchy's house (where we learned that he can open doors!), and 3 trips to 2 different vets we nursed him back to health.
Now, 4 years later, he is with us here on this crazy island. Sleeping on his cat tree.
Picture of the birthday boy:
I thought I'd write about how he came to live with us today, in honor of his birthday (in accordance with his new contract). It all started when I decided that I wanted a dog. However, living in a tiny "no pets allowed" apartment put a damper on that idea. I figured a cat would do until I could find a better place. I talked to Itchy. He seemed hesitant, but excited. He had never had pets before.
On December 19th 2003, Itchy and I headed off to the local humane society. We got lost on the way there. We thought that it might be a sign that maybe we shouldn't get a cat. We almost turned around to go home. At that point, with an empty kitty kennel in the backseat (we were prepared), we saw the street leading to the shelter.
It was about an hour or so before closing. We went straight to the cat room. A very nice volunteer (Nancy-I got to know her well a few months later when I started working at the shelter) asked what we were looking for. We didn't want a kitten but we wanted a younger cat that was still playful. Nancy said that there were lots of those and to take some time and look around. If we had any questions she would help us. We started with the wall of cages. We saw a beautiful young gray tabby. We looked at each other and *thought* we had found our cat.
The instant we opened that cage we knew we were wrong. That beautiful little bastard scratched at both of us and bit Itchy's finger. Nancy saw us and warned that that cat is a little aggressive. Ok, next. We didn't want a cat that was going to be mean or destroy our stuff. We split up and continued our search. Most of the cats were sleeping and not interested. Itchy and I took another cat into the visitation room. This cat wanted nothing to do with us. She walked around and tried to get out of the room. Perhaps she would have warmed up but she didn't seem to like us at all. We put her back in her cage and accidentally broke her toy. We both felt really bad but it's not like she was playing with it anyway (don't feel too bad, the cats get a different toy everyday when their cages are cleaned).
Then Itchy saw him. He was curled up, asleep in his litter box. Itchy took him out and brought him into the visitation room. Itchy came and got me. We spent about 10 minutes hanging out with him. He was rubbing up against our legs, smelling us, and letting us pet him. The only information that they had for him was that he was a neutered (very recently) male, about 9 months old. He had been given up by his previous owners because "he was too much work". He had lived with children and other pets. We were pretty sure that he was the one. We just wanted one more look around to make sure. We went to put him back in his cage and he starting meowing. He had been very quiet up until then. But he was yelling now and standing on his back legs, sticking his arm out between the bars. After that, there was no questioning that he was the one. We didn't need to go look around. He had picked us. He wanted to go home with us.
I opened the cage and picked him up. We walked out to the adoption desk. I held him while Itchy filled out the paperwork (we had to use his address since my apartment was no pets- yeah I broke the lease, big deal). Cuddles fell asleep in my arms.
He's been with us ever since. We had a bit of a rough start with him. The transition into our lives was never a problem for him, but he had caught a kitty cold before he left the shelter. He was so congested that he wouldn't eat (some cats won't eat if they can't smell their food), he had an eye infection, and the incision from his neuter ended up becoming infected.
After a brief return visit to the shelter, a stay at Itchy's house (where we learned that he can open doors!), and 3 trips to 2 different vets we nursed him back to health.
Now, 4 years later, he is with us here on this crazy island. Sleeping on his cat tree.
Picture of the birthday boy:
Sunday, March 16, 2008
How is the weekend over already?
This will have to be short. I am sunburned. It hurts to move my arms. My shoulders got the worst of it. So know that every word I type is causing me pain.
How hard is it to make a decent Alfredo sauce? I make a pretty good one (and it's low fat). I know my mom and sisters can make a really good one. The restaurants on the island need a new recipe. Their's suck. It was really disappointing.
Itchy and I got new beach toys. Body boards. Read about last week's beach fun here. We took them to the beach. There were basically no waves. What are the odds on that? Seriously. Still it was a day at the beach, so can't really complain. I love the water. I can't really swim but I love to play in the water. Pools are not my friend but the ocean? It's great.
Football was really boring. Itchy's team bet the other team 1,456, 346 to 14. After the first 2 touchdowns, it was just boring. My duties as Assistant to the Equipment Manager were called upon today. A girl on the losing team fell (she tripped herself, so yeah, that's how good they are). She cut her knee. I offered the first aid kit. She accepted (most people don't). I had to run across 2 fields and back to get it for her. But I think this is the first time that the first aid kit has actually helped someone.
After the games were over, I picked up a ton of garbage from the fields. Most of it was not from us. Itchy has sent out emails reminding people that he and I do not like to pick up after them. If you brought it there, take it with you when you leave. It was from locals. It's gross. Litter really bothers me. It's bad enough that we can't recycle anything down here, but do you have to just leave it there? You can't bring it with you to throw away at home?
I need aloe now.
How hard is it to make a decent Alfredo sauce? I make a pretty good one (and it's low fat). I know my mom and sisters can make a really good one. The restaurants on the island need a new recipe. Their's suck. It was really disappointing.
Itchy and I got new beach toys. Body boards. Read about last week's beach fun here. We took them to the beach. There were basically no waves. What are the odds on that? Seriously. Still it was a day at the beach, so can't really complain. I love the water. I can't really swim but I love to play in the water. Pools are not my friend but the ocean? It's great.
Football was really boring. Itchy's team bet the other team 1,456, 346 to 14. After the first 2 touchdowns, it was just boring. My duties as Assistant to the Equipment Manager were called upon today. A girl on the losing team fell (she tripped herself, so yeah, that's how good they are). She cut her knee. I offered the first aid kit. She accepted (most people don't). I had to run across 2 fields and back to get it for her. But I think this is the first time that the first aid kit has actually helped someone.
After the games were over, I picked up a ton of garbage from the fields. Most of it was not from us. Itchy has sent out emails reminding people that he and I do not like to pick up after them. If you brought it there, take it with you when you leave. It was from locals. It's gross. Litter really bothers me. It's bad enough that we can't recycle anything down here, but do you have to just leave it there? You can't bring it with you to throw away at home?
I need aloe now.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Pioneer days
Do you have these where you live? If you do, I bet it's way more fun than it is here. You probably have people that dress up, wagons, and old antiquey stuff. You know what we get? No electricity.
That's right. Just no power. We still have the tv, microwave, and fans but their existence is merely to mock us. Your Pioneer Days probably are only once a year. We have them every few days.
No, our Pioneer Days are not organized celebratory events. They are just power outages. I had to give them a fun name because 1.) it happens all the time and 2.)giving it a fun name makes it less annoying for me.
We had another Pioneer day today. This time the power went out just as we were leaving for the gym. Guess what? Yeah, the gym didn't have power either. Good times. Do you know how stupid you look when you walk in place on a treadmill that's not on? It's not cool.
So in addition to our lack of cooking gas, we had no electricity today. What a super fun day!
That's right. Just no power. We still have the tv, microwave, and fans but their existence is merely to mock us. Your Pioneer Days probably are only once a year. We have them every few days.
No, our Pioneer Days are not organized celebratory events. They are just power outages. I had to give them a fun name because 1.) it happens all the time and 2.)giving it a fun name makes it less annoying for me.
We had another Pioneer day today. This time the power went out just as we were leaving for the gym. Guess what? Yeah, the gym didn't have power either. Good times. Do you know how stupid you look when you walk in place on a treadmill that's not on? It's not cool.
So in addition to our lack of cooking gas, we had no electricity today. What a super fun day!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Pretty
Changes are coming. The blog is too white (boring) for me. I will be toying with new backgrounds and colors for the next few days. Any suggestions will be given all the consideration that they deserve.
I'm sure we paid that bill
So our gas went out. As I was making dinner. Wouldn't have been a problem if we had an electric stove. We don't though, so it made cooking interesting. It's not easy to brown hamburger in a microwave.
I'm certain that we paid the bill. I remember standing in line. They wouldn't just cut us off with no warning, would they? I'm pretty sure this is Careless's (landlord) fault. She probably forgot to call and get the tanks filled up. Yeah, we have tanks (look like giant propane tanks) outside that have to be filled by the lazy people at the electricity company. It's her job to call them. We pay for the gas we use but she is responsible for making sure they are filled.
Actually, I think we pay for the gas that she uses as well. We get screwed on the electricity bill so why wouldn't we pay her portion of the gas bill? I mean really, how is it that our electricity bill is higher than our neighbor's (it's the same house, the lower level is split into 2 apartments)? Their apartment is much bigger than ours, they run their air conditioners just as much as we do (but they have 2 of them- one in each bedroom, we only have 1), and they leave lights on all day long (we don't, we built a screen door to let light in and to get a breeze). My theory is that we are paying for the landlady's outdoor lights and the electricity used by the washer and dryer (that are used by everyone and is suppose to be included in our rent).
Really though, if the gas isn't back on tomorrow, I guess I won't be able to cook.
I'm certain that we paid the bill. I remember standing in line. They wouldn't just cut us off with no warning, would they? I'm pretty sure this is Careless's (landlord) fault. She probably forgot to call and get the tanks filled up. Yeah, we have tanks (look like giant propane tanks) outside that have to be filled by the lazy people at the electricity company. It's her job to call them. We pay for the gas we use but she is responsible for making sure they are filled.
Actually, I think we pay for the gas that she uses as well. We get screwed on the electricity bill so why wouldn't we pay her portion of the gas bill? I mean really, how is it that our electricity bill is higher than our neighbor's (it's the same house, the lower level is split into 2 apartments)? Their apartment is much bigger than ours, they run their air conditioners just as much as we do (but they have 2 of them- one in each bedroom, we only have 1), and they leave lights on all day long (we don't, we built a screen door to let light in and to get a breeze). My theory is that we are paying for the landlady's outdoor lights and the electricity used by the washer and dryer (that are used by everyone and is suppose to be included in our rent).
Really though, if the gas isn't back on tomorrow, I guess I won't be able to cook.
Did you miss me?
I skipped a day. I didn't have anything interesting to write about. Not that I have anything interesting today.
Speaking of skipping, I skipped the gym today. And I made brownies. Oops, there goes that whole losing weight thing. It isn't working anyway so why should I give up brownies and have to suffer through a workout? The brownies, by the way, are delicious.
Speaking of skipping, I skipped the gym today. And I made brownies. Oops, there goes that whole losing weight thing. It isn't working anyway so why should I give up brownies and have to suffer through a workout? The brownies, by the way, are delicious.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Beach Day
Yay! It was beach day. It was seriously one of the most fun beach days we've had in a while. It got off to a horrible start too.
Itchy got home from school and said we should go to the beach. It had rained in the morning but was clearing up. I didn't think that Itchy really wanted to go, but after his nap he was still up for it so we went. We went to C shell beach first. It has decent snorkeling (also has sea snakes, but what can you do?) and is usually quiet. Not so much today. There were 3 catamarans, 2 banana boats, and at least a dozen jet skis. There was huge tent with loud music coming from it. Way too many drunk tourists. There is no designated swimming area so it can be risky to snorkel (Itchy was nearly hit by a boat a few weeks ago). We were disappointed. We left. We headed over to G beach. A beautiful beach. No snorkeling though. Oh well.
We turn on to the dirt/sand road that leads to the beach. It has potholes that will eat cars. Having been down this road many times before Itchy navigates the way. Until we hit a sand drift. Like a snow drift but made of sand. We got stuck. Really stuck. A local came up to help. We tried pushing the car. Nope, just got us deeper. We dug out the front tires and put boards under the tires. Nope, the front right tire was just digging itself deeper. Two students from Itchy's school showed up and tried to help us push. Still nothing. The driver's side front tire was just digging deeper. The local kept saying that if we had a cord he would pull us out. We had nothing. Another local came up and was trying to help by putting a huge cinder block next to the tire. Yeah. The tire wouldn't go up 1/4 of an inch onto a flat board but it'll go up 6 inches onto this cinder block. OR maybe it'll just take the tread off the tire. It was the latter. One of the other students called a friend that has 4 wheel drive. She was going to come and pull us out.
One of the locals had also called someone to come and pull us out. The local got there first. He had a really nice, new truck. His truck pulled our car out with no problem. But there was a slight downhill part in the road. He was pulling our car down a hill in reverse. He stopped his shiny, pretty new truck. Our crappy, rusted, scratched, and dented car hit his truck. Oops. He got out of his truck really fast. Itchy and I were afraid. Locals are known for screwing students. Scratch one of their tire rims and you get to buy them a brand new matching set of rims. So hit their bumper and you've pretty much just totaled their car. His bumper did seem a little loose but he said it was fine. We got lucky. But that is what Itchy does. He's a lucky bastard. Our car has a new dent. Who cares though? We got the car out. This whole fiasco took about an hour. Getting to the beach shouldn't be that hard.
Anyway, onto the fun part. The waves were huge. We get our little swim rings out and play in the waves. I get knocked on my ass by one of the bigger waves and get held under the water. Not fun. Itchy has fun riding the waves. I played in the shallows for a while. I decide that I want to get out the "big raft". It took forever to blow up. But it was so worth it. The "big raft" catches waves. It was amazing. It was like a big body/boogie board. We had so much fun. If you caught a big wave you could ride the wave all the way to the shore. Fast. It felt like I was flying across the water. Holy fun Batman! So not what the "big raft" is made for (think water recliner) but it was great.
It's days like today that make you love (beach) and hate (car stuck in sand) this island. And just to make you all jealous, a picture of the beach:
Itchy got home from school and said we should go to the beach. It had rained in the morning but was clearing up. I didn't think that Itchy really wanted to go, but after his nap he was still up for it so we went. We went to C shell beach first. It has decent snorkeling (also has sea snakes, but what can you do?) and is usually quiet. Not so much today. There were 3 catamarans, 2 banana boats, and at least a dozen jet skis. There was huge tent with loud music coming from it. Way too many drunk tourists. There is no designated swimming area so it can be risky to snorkel (Itchy was nearly hit by a boat a few weeks ago). We were disappointed. We left. We headed over to G beach. A beautiful beach. No snorkeling though. Oh well.
We turn on to the dirt/sand road that leads to the beach. It has potholes that will eat cars. Having been down this road many times before Itchy navigates the way. Until we hit a sand drift. Like a snow drift but made of sand. We got stuck. Really stuck. A local came up to help. We tried pushing the car. Nope, just got us deeper. We dug out the front tires and put boards under the tires. Nope, the front right tire was just digging itself deeper. Two students from Itchy's school showed up and tried to help us push. Still nothing. The driver's side front tire was just digging deeper. The local kept saying that if we had a cord he would pull us out. We had nothing. Another local came up and was trying to help by putting a huge cinder block next to the tire. Yeah. The tire wouldn't go up 1/4 of an inch onto a flat board but it'll go up 6 inches onto this cinder block. OR maybe it'll just take the tread off the tire. It was the latter. One of the other students called a friend that has 4 wheel drive. She was going to come and pull us out.
One of the locals had also called someone to come and pull us out. The local got there first. He had a really nice, new truck. His truck pulled our car out with no problem. But there was a slight downhill part in the road. He was pulling our car down a hill in reverse. He stopped his shiny, pretty new truck. Our crappy, rusted, scratched, and dented car hit his truck. Oops. He got out of his truck really fast. Itchy and I were afraid. Locals are known for screwing students. Scratch one of their tire rims and you get to buy them a brand new matching set of rims. So hit their bumper and you've pretty much just totaled their car. His bumper did seem a little loose but he said it was fine. We got lucky. But that is what Itchy does. He's a lucky bastard. Our car has a new dent. Who cares though? We got the car out. This whole fiasco took about an hour. Getting to the beach shouldn't be that hard.
Anyway, onto the fun part. The waves were huge. We get our little swim rings out and play in the waves. I get knocked on my ass by one of the bigger waves and get held under the water. Not fun. Itchy has fun riding the waves. I played in the shallows for a while. I decide that I want to get out the "big raft". It took forever to blow up. But it was so worth it. The "big raft" catches waves. It was amazing. It was like a big body/boogie board. We had so much fun. If you caught a big wave you could ride the wave all the way to the shore. Fast. It felt like I was flying across the water. Holy fun Batman! So not what the "big raft" is made for (think water recliner) but it was great.
It's days like today that make you love (beach) and hate (car stuck in sand) this island. And just to make you all jealous, a picture of the beach:
I'll punch the hairball right out of you
Who would have thought that those words would be said, in all seriousness, in my house. Today Itchy punched Cuddles in the face. Hard. So hard that Itchy's hand hurt. It resulted in Cuddles throwing up a hairball. Itchy punched the hairball right out of him.
"I'll punch the hairball right out of you" was said after the incident occurred, not as a threat. Of course Itchy felt horrible about it. It was an accident. I think his hand hurt because Cuddles has an overbite and a canine probably hit his hand. Cuddles is fine. He will probably cower in fear for a few days but he'll get over it. Poor dude. At least he still loves me.
"I'll punch the hairball right out of you" was said after the incident occurred, not as a threat. Of course Itchy felt horrible about it. It was an accident. I think his hand hurt because Cuddles has an overbite and a canine probably hit his hand. Cuddles is fine. He will probably cower in fear for a few days but he'll get over it. Poor dude. At least he still loves me.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
One step closer
I got as close to fulfilling one of my goals today as I've ever been. The goal: training monkeys. It was not as I envisioned, but my goals were not well thought out. Probably why I haven't followed through with any of them. Yet.
Itchy and I were going to go to the beach today. We HAD to use his credit card so we planned on lunch at the local resort and then spending the afternoon on their beach chairs. When we got up it was cloudy, which seems to be the theme. We plan on a beach day and it's cloudy. Who wants to go to the beach on a cloudy day? When you have access to it everyday you become selective. We really did need to use his credit card though, so we decided to eat at one of the plantations.
We got lost on the way there. Of course. It's our thing, it's what we do, and we're good at it. But we did find it, so the trip was a success. The plantation is beautiful. Great views of the Atlantic. They were playing songs from the Little Mermaid and the Wizard of Oz (not the versions from the movies but the lyrics were the same, it was like a grown up version of the songs) which was a little weird. The food was great. The service was good. We fed the cute little finches that came to our table. It was expensive. Really expensive. I have to say though, it was nice to eat out and NOT get food poisoning. Like the last time we ate out.
The plantation has rain forest trails on their grounds. We decided to take a little walk after lunch. For some reason, knowing that we would probably be walking these trails, I wore flip flops. Super genius. Lucky for me, the trails were easy and it wasn't much of a hike. It was on these trails that I came closer to my goal. There were monkeys. They were surrounding us. They didn't come very close to us but they were definitely interested in us. See, if I'm ever going to train monkeys I need them to be interested. I can't be expected to train them if they won't pay attention to me. Once I have their attention, the plan will all come into place.
So even though I didn't actually accomplish anything I feel like I made some progress. Besides, it was just fun to watch them swinging through the trees.
Itchy and I were going to go to the beach today. We HAD to use his credit card so we planned on lunch at the local resort and then spending the afternoon on their beach chairs. When we got up it was cloudy, which seems to be the theme. We plan on a beach day and it's cloudy. Who wants to go to the beach on a cloudy day? When you have access to it everyday you become selective. We really did need to use his credit card though, so we decided to eat at one of the plantations.
We got lost on the way there. Of course. It's our thing, it's what we do, and we're good at it. But we did find it, so the trip was a success. The plantation is beautiful. Great views of the Atlantic. They were playing songs from the Little Mermaid and the Wizard of Oz (not the versions from the movies but the lyrics were the same, it was like a grown up version of the songs) which was a little weird. The food was great. The service was good. We fed the cute little finches that came to our table. It was expensive. Really expensive. I have to say though, it was nice to eat out and NOT get food poisoning. Like the last time we ate out.
The plantation has rain forest trails on their grounds. We decided to take a little walk after lunch. For some reason, knowing that we would probably be walking these trails, I wore flip flops. Super genius. Lucky for me, the trails were easy and it wasn't much of a hike. It was on these trails that I came closer to my goal. There were monkeys. They were surrounding us. They didn't come very close to us but they were definitely interested in us. See, if I'm ever going to train monkeys I need them to be interested. I can't be expected to train them if they won't pay attention to me. Once I have their attention, the plan will all come into place.
So even though I didn't actually accomplish anything I feel like I made some progress. Besides, it was just fun to watch them swinging through the trees.
Friday, March 7, 2008
I can hear it!
Wow, all the way down here in the Caribbean. Who'd have thought that we'd be able to hear it? Can you hear it where you are? I mean, I knew people in MN would hear it. And then laugh at them. I just wish those Green Bay Packer fans would stop crying so loudly at night. I need my sleep.
I hear their tears are causing flooding. Their local health departments are recommending paint thinner to fend off dehydration. Just like their precious Brett Favre used to drink. Aww.
Itchy told me that a WI paper issued a special edition supplement to their daily paper dedicated to Favre. It's the first time since 9/11 that they have done that. Not for the primaries (people were only trying to decide on the next presidential candidates). Not food and toy recalls (it's just the food your family and pets eat and the toys your kids play with). But for the retirement of a football player. That led the league in interceptions. In WI, Favre's retirement is as important as a terrorist attack on America. Makes you wonder doesn't it?
To those of you who are sad, all I can say is Ha Ha!
I hear their tears are causing flooding. Their local health departments are recommending paint thinner to fend off dehydration. Just like their precious Brett Favre used to drink. Aww.
Itchy told me that a WI paper issued a special edition supplement to their daily paper dedicated to Favre. It's the first time since 9/11 that they have done that. Not for the primaries (people were only trying to decide on the next presidential candidates). Not food and toy recalls (it's just the food your family and pets eat and the toys your kids play with). But for the retirement of a football player. That led the league in interceptions. In WI, Favre's retirement is as important as a terrorist attack on America. Makes you wonder doesn't it?
To those of you who are sad, all I can say is Ha Ha!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
LYRAD
Do you watch "The Simpsons"? Do you remember "El Barto"? If you don't watch the show/can't remember, El Barto is a running joke in the show. Bart would tag everything. Since he couldn't use his name (he'd get in trouble for the graffiti) he used "El Barto". It seems that no one ever caught on either. Watch a few old episodes and you'll see it.
Anyway, here on the island we have our very own tag-er. He likes to write, spray paint, and carve his name everywhere. This guy gets around too. It's everywhere. We've even seen it on the neighboring island. I think it took him a while to get it *just right*. Some of the tags are a little different than the others. The one I've seen the most is L, Y, backwards R, A, backwards D. I'll try to add a picture tomorrow.
It's annoying, but at the same time it makes me laugh. I wonder if Lyrad ever watches "The Simpsons"?
ETA: I also wonder if his name is really Lyrad. Were his parents trying to be clever? Daryl wasn't original enough so they spelled it backwards? Or does Daryl think that no one will notice that Lyrad is Daryl backwards? He might just get that super genius award after all!
Anyway, here on the island we have our very own tag-er. He likes to write, spray paint, and carve his name everywhere. This guy gets around too. It's everywhere. We've even seen it on the neighboring island. I think it took him a while to get it *just right*. Some of the tags are a little different than the others. The one I've seen the most is L, Y, backwards R, A, backwards D. I'll try to add a picture tomorrow.
It's annoying, but at the same time it makes me laugh. I wonder if Lyrad ever watches "The Simpsons"?
ETA: I also wonder if his name is really Lyrad. Were his parents trying to be clever? Daryl wasn't original enough so they spelled it backwards? Or does Daryl think that no one will notice that Lyrad is Daryl backwards? He might just get that super genius award after all!
We've come to an agreement
So it looks like Cuddles is staying. Yay! We have finally agreed upon the terms of our new contract. The only thing that changed was that we are no longer allowed to whistle the theme song from "The Andy Griffith Show" at him. It can continue to be whistled, because it's just so darn catchy, but never at him.
This is bugging me
What flavor is yellow cake? Or white cake for that matter? If it were candy it would be easy. Yellow is lemon and white is pineapple or coconut. Duh. But we're talking cake here people. We've all had yellow and white cake mix before, so what flavor is it?
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Travel woes
Well, today was the day that I was suppose to go to Antigua. Even though I have known for at least a month that I couldn't go, I still felt depressed today.
A friend of mine (we've been friends since Middle School) was going on a cruise. It wasn't coming to my island, but she thought that maybe, just maybe, we could meet up on one of the islands that it did go to. Hell ya! I was really excited. I had to choose between Puerto Rico, Antigua, and Tortola. The choice was easy. I had heard so much about Antigua that I knew I wanted to go there. I hate Puerto Rico (long story, let's save it for another day). Tortola is British and expensive to get to. Yay! I was going to Antigua.
Then, reality hit. This wouldn't be cheap. But how many times would I be able to do something like this? I talked to Itchy. There was no way that he could go. I felt guilty. It wouldn't be fair to him if I got to go have a super fun time and he had to stay here. He wants to see the other islands too. I felt really bad. Itchy told me not to worry about it. It was only going to be 2 days. I still couldn't make up my mind.
Well, as it turns out I didn't have to think about it too much. The decision was made after talking to the surgeon that worked on Patches. We found out that Patches has cancer. It wasn't a huge surprise, as I suspected it all along, but it hurt to hear those words. So instead of planning a trip to Antigua for a day of fun I was frantically emailing every vet I knew for advice. With the added expense of everything that goes along with cancer, I just couldn't justify spending money on this trip.
I hope it was beautiful in Antigua today. I hope that my friend and her family had a great time. I hope that she emails me pictures. I just wish that I could have been there.
A friend of mine (we've been friends since Middle School) was going on a cruise. It wasn't coming to my island, but she thought that maybe, just maybe, we could meet up on one of the islands that it did go to. Hell ya! I was really excited. I had to choose between Puerto Rico, Antigua, and Tortola. The choice was easy. I had heard so much about Antigua that I knew I wanted to go there. I hate Puerto Rico (long story, let's save it for another day). Tortola is British and expensive to get to. Yay! I was going to Antigua.
Then, reality hit. This wouldn't be cheap. But how many times would I be able to do something like this? I talked to Itchy. There was no way that he could go. I felt guilty. It wouldn't be fair to him if I got to go have a super fun time and he had to stay here. He wants to see the other islands too. I felt really bad. Itchy told me not to worry about it. It was only going to be 2 days. I still couldn't make up my mind.
Well, as it turns out I didn't have to think about it too much. The decision was made after talking to the surgeon that worked on Patches. We found out that Patches has cancer. It wasn't a huge surprise, as I suspected it all along, but it hurt to hear those words. So instead of planning a trip to Antigua for a day of fun I was frantically emailing every vet I knew for advice. With the added expense of everything that goes along with cancer, I just couldn't justify spending money on this trip.
I hope it was beautiful in Antigua today. I hope that my friend and her family had a great time. I hope that she emails me pictures. I just wish that I could have been there.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Datch
A few semesters ago (we measure time in semesters down here, they are 4 months long in case you were wondering) I noticed someone a little weird. He seemed to be at every party. These were school parties so everyone kind of knows everyone. Or at least which semester people are in. It's a small island and an even smaller campus.
Anyway, this guy didn't look like he fit in at all. The first party he was at, I tried to figure out who he was. Not in the obvious go and talk to him way, but more the ask around a little and then start making things up in my head variety. No one had seen him on campus. Ok, he could be a first semester. But eaves dropping on other first semesters proved that they didn't know him either. Over time we (Shots* and I) decided that he was probably a med or nursing student, maybe a local.
We were sort of obsessed with him. Not in a "he's cute" kind of way, but a "good lord he's here too" kind of way. We named him Datch. He was always wearing a t-shirt and faded jeans with flip flops. The t-shirt always had the word DATCH on it. Always. He had a stance too. I do a great impression of it. He was always standing like that. Beer in one hand, thumb hooked on his pocket and one knee bent. Here's a picture (sorry about the quality, I was drinking, we were in a dark bar, and I had to crop people out).
Shots and I made a game of pointing him out to one another. Apparently, Shots and I also like to take A LOT of pictures when we've had too much to drink. Like hundreds of pictures in a single night. Up close. In people's faces. Makes for some really unfortunate pictures. Thank goodness for digital cameras. Now, amongst those in your face pictures, we started taking pictures of Datch. Lots of pictures. To be honest, we weren't very sneaky about it either. He totally saw us. He even smiled for a lot of the pictures. It was fun. It made some really boring parties more interesting.
It was all ruined one night. Intentionally by one person. It is one of Itchy's friends. Without going into too much detail, Itchy's friend went up to Datch and asked him to come and meet us. We asked him not to talk to Datch. He did it anyway because he likes to be a jerk. He ruined it. We learned way too much about him. It did not coincide with the stories we made up. Itchy's friend ruined all our fun.
Anyway, I saw him out last night at the beach bars. He was doing what he always did.
*Shots is someone that we hang out with a lot. She likes to do shots. She is from Utah. I'm pretty sure she has sisterwives.
Anyway, this guy didn't look like he fit in at all. The first party he was at, I tried to figure out who he was. Not in the obvious go and talk to him way, but more the ask around a little and then start making things up in my head variety. No one had seen him on campus. Ok, he could be a first semester. But eaves dropping on other first semesters proved that they didn't know him either. Over time we (Shots* and I) decided that he was probably a med or nursing student, maybe a local.
We were sort of obsessed with him. Not in a "he's cute" kind of way, but a "good lord he's here too" kind of way. We named him Datch. He was always wearing a t-shirt and faded jeans with flip flops. The t-shirt always had the word DATCH on it. Always. He had a stance too. I do a great impression of it. He was always standing like that. Beer in one hand, thumb hooked on his pocket and one knee bent. Here's a picture (sorry about the quality, I was drinking, we were in a dark bar, and I had to crop people out).
Shots and I made a game of pointing him out to one another. Apparently, Shots and I also like to take A LOT of pictures when we've had too much to drink. Like hundreds of pictures in a single night. Up close. In people's faces. Makes for some really unfortunate pictures. Thank goodness for digital cameras. Now, amongst those in your face pictures, we started taking pictures of Datch. Lots of pictures. To be honest, we weren't very sneaky about it either. He totally saw us. He even smiled for a lot of the pictures. It was fun. It made some really boring parties more interesting.
It was all ruined one night. Intentionally by one person. It is one of Itchy's friends. Without going into too much detail, Itchy's friend went up to Datch and asked him to come and meet us. We asked him not to talk to Datch. He did it anyway because he likes to be a jerk. He ruined it. We learned way too much about him. It did not coincide with the stories we made up. Itchy's friend ruined all our fun.
Anyway, I saw him out last night at the beach bars. He was doing what he always did.
*Shots is someone that we hang out with a lot. She likes to do shots. She is from Utah. I'm pretty sure she has sisterwives.
Sorry Cuddles
I feel really bad. Really I do. I'm so sorry. But I'm sure that your new home with new owners will be nice. I'll do my best to advocate for a great new home for you.
See the thing is, Itchy and I forgot his birthday. Again. For the 5th straight year. He's 5. Yes, we have forgotten Every Single One of his birthdays. I'm pretty sure that at this point a representative from CATIO* is going to come and rescue him. There will probably be a lawsuit. I'll be obligated to pay for his legal fees, the cost of finding a new home (including his moving fees), once a week therapy for 6 months, and a hefty fee for my own ignorance.
Now, in my defense, he did come from a shelter. They just guessed on how old he was. We arbitrarily picked March 1st based on the shelter's guess at age. They should take some of the blame. Maybe they should have guessed better.
If we are lucky and Cuddles does not file a grievance with CATIO against us, we have a new contract for him to look over. With any luck, he'll sign it and forgive us. The new contract includes 1.)total forgiveness (we basically forget that this ever happened), 2.) his birthday will be changed to St. Patrick's Day (he has lovely green eyes and let's face it, he is a drunk), 3.) we will do our best not to forget, 4.) he will get a special treat on his birthday.
I'll let you know how it goes.
*Cats Against Terribly Ignorant Owners
See the thing is, Itchy and I forgot his birthday. Again. For the 5th straight year. He's 5. Yes, we have forgotten Every Single One of his birthdays. I'm pretty sure that at this point a representative from CATIO* is going to come and rescue him. There will probably be a lawsuit. I'll be obligated to pay for his legal fees, the cost of finding a new home (including his moving fees), once a week therapy for 6 months, and a hefty fee for my own ignorance.
Now, in my defense, he did come from a shelter. They just guessed on how old he was. We arbitrarily picked March 1st based on the shelter's guess at age. They should take some of the blame. Maybe they should have guessed better.
If we are lucky and Cuddles does not file a grievance with CATIO against us, we have a new contract for him to look over. With any luck, he'll sign it and forgive us. The new contract includes 1.)total forgiveness (we basically forget that this ever happened), 2.) his birthday will be changed to St. Patrick's Day (he has lovely green eyes and let's face it, he is a drunk), 3.) we will do our best not to forget, 4.) he will get a special treat on his birthday.
I'll let you know how it goes.
*Cats Against Terribly Ignorant Owners
Sunday, March 2, 2008
One more thing
Just so you know, I will be replying to the comments made (when appropriate) in the comments section. I see that someone has figured out how to leave her name on her comments. *Waves to Sunshine*
Itchy taking a break
So many topics, so little time. The computer battery died forcing Itchy to take a break from staring at power point slides. It's recharging now so I get to feed the addiction.
This weekend was interesting. We met up with a few friends on Friday night. One of them owed Itchy a shot because of his vast knowledge of Jeopardy!. She lost a bet. No Eye KIV this time. We called it a night pretty early because we all had to get up early to wash dogs.
Well, they HAD to wash dogs. I volunteered. The school has 20 some dogs that are used for various educational reasons. As part of their routine care, the dogs are bathed every month or so. This was Itchy's weekend. We thought that washing 20 some dogs would take a considerable amount of time so I volunteered to help. It went surprisingly well and fast. I did manage to get hurt. No big surprise there. Nervous dog=bruises and road rash. Oh well.
Of course, we had the weekly visit to IGA. Why do we always get the person in training at the checkout? Why? I chose aisle 1 for a reason. She is my favorite checkout lady. She's fast and polite. But the people training to bag groceries defeats it all. I swear I personally have done more for the training program at that store than any other customer.
We also had football this weekend. Itchy's team had a bye week so even though he didn't play, he had to set up the fields. Which means that I had to help. It started to rain while we were setting up. It poured just as we finished. It was sunny, muggy, and hot when the games started. I blame the Mormons when it rains during field setup.
By the way, the s key is really starting to bother me.
This weekend was interesting. We met up with a few friends on Friday night. One of them owed Itchy a shot because of his vast knowledge of Jeopardy!. She lost a bet. No Eye KIV this time. We called it a night pretty early because we all had to get up early to wash dogs.
Well, they HAD to wash dogs. I volunteered. The school has 20 some dogs that are used for various educational reasons. As part of their routine care, the dogs are bathed every month or so. This was Itchy's weekend. We thought that washing 20 some dogs would take a considerable amount of time so I volunteered to help. It went surprisingly well and fast. I did manage to get hurt. No big surprise there. Nervous dog=bruises and road rash. Oh well.
Of course, we had the weekly visit to IGA. Why do we always get the person in training at the checkout? Why? I chose aisle 1 for a reason. She is my favorite checkout lady. She's fast and polite. But the people training to bag groceries defeats it all. I swear I personally have done more for the training program at that store than any other customer.
We also had football this weekend. Itchy's team had a bye week so even though he didn't play, he had to set up the fields. Which means that I had to help. It started to rain while we were setting up. It poured just as we finished. It was sunny, muggy, and hot when the games started. I blame the Mormons when it rains during field setup.
By the way, the s key is really starting to bother me.
Sticky Keys
This is annoying. A few keys on the keyboard are sticky. I have to put in actual effort to use those keys. This will, no doubt, increase the number of typos. In case you wanted to know, the following keys are the ones causing a problem:
5
S
Left Shift
X
Not like I use any of those keys, right?
5
S
Left Shift
X
Not like I use any of those keys, right?
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