Sneaky Little Dogger

Over the years I've become a bit more lenient on the house rules. I have a furry little blond friend that takes advantage of this as much as caninely possible.

Sparky: "What, Jane's distracted with a phone call? Who is she talking to? I know it's not me. Well, since I can't sleep through her incessant talking, maybe I can trick her into petting me?"

I get off the phone and Sparky is sound asleep.

I should have asked for the tooth.

I thought my end of the bargain was going to be harder than Jinkies, but I have to admit, he drew the short straw on that one.

A couple weeks ago I took the ever so terrified to leave the house Jinkies to his annual veterinarian appointment. The appointment began like clockwork, sweaty paws, yowling, panting, shedding, and drooling. Jinkies was his usual frightened mess, but put up with all the poking and prodding like a champ.

Then the vet told me that Jinkies hadn't been flossing enough and I needed to schedule him for a dental cleaning. I knew I wouldn't be happy about dropping the cash and he would be happy about coming back to the vet. 

Apparently a dental cleaning for a cat is a bit more complicated than that for a human like myself (Note: I'm not afraid of the dentist and am quite cooperative). With the unpredictability of scaredy cat, the vet uses gas to knock out the patient. Gotta make sure the patient can handle the gas, so let the tests begin.

First up, blood test. Piece of cake, we're still at the vet, so have at em. Next up, urine sample. Oh, what was that? His bladder is empty? That's too bad. You seriously need his urine? No, I will not traumatize him more and bring him back in prior to his dental cleaning. Hmmm, I can capture his urine with an eye dropper. Really? Do I look like a magician?

So, I leave the vet's office with a relieved cat (for the time being), an eye dropper, and some magical plastic pellets. I suppose a normal cat owner might empty the litter box, drop in the 1/2 cup of magical plastic pellets and hope their cat decides to use the now foreign litter box. 

Knowing how this could go terribly wrong and waking up in the morning to random puddles around the house, I had to devise a way to capture the cat pee.

• Step One: order Chinese soup for takeout. The no spill lids are perfect for this nearly impossible task. 
• Step Two: Eat the soup. 
• Step Three: Clean the container and place magical plastic pellets in the bottom. 
• Step Four: Take out any aggression you may have on the lid. A paring knife works quite well. Puncher the top numerous times, which will allow liquid to flow into the container, but for cat littler to stay out. 

Since many cats are creatures of habit, it's quite possible you can figure out the highest percentage spot for capturing cat pee to place the container in the litter box. 

• Step Five: Using your pooper scooper, dig to the bottom of the litter box and place the assembled container (with magical pellets) as low in the litter box as possible. 
• Step Six: Build up the litter around the container, all the way to the edges. This may require you to add a bit more litter to the box than usual.

If you are lucky, your cat will relieve his next bladder full of urine directly into the container and the magical plastic pellets will keep the pee from evaporating until the next morning when you eagerly await to suck it up with an eye dropper. 

If you are not so lucky, here's my tip for you. Counter your cats move as if you were playing a game of chess. (Only try this if you have clumping cat litter.) 

If he pees directly in front of the container, scoop the block of pee (1) to the opposite side of the litter box. This will force him to stand closer to the container because he naturally doesn't want to step in his pee. If he angles himself from the block of pee (1) and urinates to the side of the container, then scoop that block of pee (2) and place same distance as the other block, but start to form arc that the cat will eventually have to stand inside, leaving him vary few options to aim other than the container.

I feel like I got off on a bit of a tangent. Blood test - check, urine sample - check, appointment scheduled - check. Today was the day of the tooth cleaning. Unfortunately for Jinkies, the day of "torture" started at 12am when he wasn't able to have anymore water or food. Then at about 7:30 it was time to shove a big cranky cat into a small crate. Off we went to the vet and he yowled the whole way.

Around 9:30 or so I got a call from the vet saying they had a good patient on their hands, but one of his teeth needed to be extracted. Seriously? Yep, I'm not winning cat owner of the year with this one. Anyway, they extracted his lower right canine and he was soon out of his procedure and into recovery.

I got to pick up my little buddy after work and as I sit here typing this blog, Jinkies is sitting across the room staring at me, eyes at half mast, with a super groggy, drugged up, glossy eyes. I feel so bad for my little buddy.

I should have requested to have the tooth. I could have created a kick-ass collar for him, using the tooth as a charm. He could then tell all of his cat friends that he lost that tooth when he...

Not exactly Chex Mix

I've always been a fan of Chex Mix, and like most people, I have my favorite pieces that I'll pick out of the bowl first. As far as type of Chex or Party Mixes, it doesn't get much better than the kind my dad makes.

It's not your traditional Chex Mix. If it's a starch and goes crunch, chances are Dad's thrown in the mix at least once before. I'd say my least favorite addition over the years was honey roasted peanuts and my top two favorites have been Cheerios and Cheese-Its.

Not only does Dad put his own twist on the ingredients, but he kicks up the spices... well, I don't think there's a scale to measure the boldness of the spices. If there were, then his Chex Mix would blow the highest number out of the water.

Don't get me wrong, it usually tastes fantastic, but you'll be able to keep vampires away with your breath for a few days.

So, where was I going with all of this? Oh yeah, I visited Costco with Mom, Dad, and Grandpa over the weekend. Yep, that's right, transitioning from Chex Mix to Costco in under one second!

The highlight of the trip was seeing Dad's face upon the discovery of a new spice, similar to a Lawry's All Seasoning, but without all the salt. A new spice mixture to bring the kick of his Chex Mix to legendary heights, without the hindrance of adding more salt to the mix.

Yes folks, there had been a small window of improvement for his classic recipe. The salt factor varies depending on the mixture of spices used and sometimes the salt to spice ratio is a bit out of control, especially when you pop that super crunchy, supremely flavored Cheerio into your mouth.

With the latest discovery and purchase of the salt-free multi-spice, I can't wait to try Dad's next batch of Chex Mix. But in the mean time, I'll enjoy my own "Chex Mix", the "not exactly Chex Mix" I refer to in the title.

I use the traditional spice mix as suggested by Chex, but my ingredients vary a bit. I use an entire box of Cheerios. Reduces the need for me to pick out my favorite pieces.

Blog Bandwagon

Is it good to be on or off the blog bandwagon?

Either way, I seem to have been flying under the blogosphere.

I'm not really sure why, just kind of happened.

I suppose I just don't have much to say as of late.

I could share my latest jury duty duty or my first paintball experience, but I'm just not feeling it tonight. Hope I'm not getting sick... just don't feel quite right.

Time to buckle down. Let's get serious.

So, I'm one for taking surveys to earn money or points to purchase things I like. I've earned over $50 in Ticketmaster gift cards this year for taking surveys while watching a Cubs game or two. I also like to sign up for contests. Can't hurt to win a couple concert tickets or some cash, but what about a healthy living contest?

Yes, that's right, entering myself to win 15 free weeks of Seattle Sutton's Healthy Living, so I can challenge myself and 9 others and move towards becoming a better me. As I filled out my entry and relived my struggles over the many, many years, I've come to realize few things. I'm not getting any younger and if I want to be active as I get older, I need to change my ways. The only thing that's been a true answer to this problem was watching what I eat and exercising regularly.

It's really not rocket science and people all around me are able to do it, so why not me? It pretty much boils down to will power and the need for me to have a goal. If I commit myself to something, then I have to work towards that goal. (Suggestions for a sporting event/race in 2013 are welcome.)

Why do I feel the need to write about this? Well, if it's "down on paper" then I'm more likely to do it, and if anyone reads my blog, then they can help keep me to this. Yes, as I mentioned it all boils down to my will power, but support along the way can't hurt.

Hmmm, what are my first steps going to be. I'm going to start counting calories again. I found that it makes me more aware of what I'm putting in my body and forces me to think twice. Do I really want to see that I wasted blank number of calories on another stupid Starbucks drink and completely wiped out the effort I put into riding the recumbent bike? Nope, so it's time to dust of my knowledge and start making healthier eating choices.

I also need to get moving more, no excuses. If my knee hurts, then use the punching bag or weights for my upper body. If I've screwed up my hand, then ride the bike or take Sparky for a stroll. Time to get Sparky and myself out seeing the world again. Plus, who doesn't like to wear neon reflective clothing?

I think that sums up my thoughts for now. Below is a photo from a couple months ago. Yes, I know it's the teeny-tiny Shawn Johnson, but I don't want to feel like a monster standing next to her. Taller, fine and dandy... monster, no thank you.

Day 6 Homeward Bound

When I originally booked my flight, it was to leave mid morning, at at roughly 2pm. So, the flight schedule gave me ample time to sleep in and make my way to Budget rental car.

It was quite a rainy morning and people were driving stupidly. Thank goodness I made the whole trip without any incidents, well... we'll wait and see what happened at the toll booth... oops.

The sky was absolutely gorgeous above the clouds and rain, amazing how that works. That's probably the only thing I wish was different. Better weather. I didn't play frisbee golf at all. A bit on the chilly side and any course would have been muddy.

Now I sit and wait for my plane to arrive at O'Hare's gat K1, so I can make the last leg home and relieve my parents of their Sparky duties and head home to squeeze the kitty... watch out Jinkies!

This trip wouldn't have been the same if I didn't have the help of Kristin (Jinkies' & house watcher), and the Sparky clan of the Angell's, Tom, and my parents. I'm thankful to have friends and family that help put my mind at ease when it comes to my little buddies. Thank you, I owe you all!

Day 5 Hartford and Surrounding Towns

I had a few must-dos on my list today. The top two were Avery Soda and the Fish Family Farm. I had their locations, but not a clue how long each would take.

I hit Avery Soda first in New Britain. It was a simple operation that still uses equipment from the 1950's and had countless varieties if soda, which I bought and later taste tested 6 kinds. My favorite was the Birch Beer. Reminded me of Beeman's gum or Pepsodent toothpaste flavor.

After about 15 minutes, I was on my merry way to the Fish Family Farm in Bolton where they make cheese, ice cream and yogurt. I could see the cheese making process take place before my eyes, and I got to say Hi to the cows. The only single serving item was the ice cream. I opted for sweet cream, the base for vanilla, without the vanilla. So good!

I stopped at Lena's First and Last Pizzeria for lunch, also good! Then I traveled into Hartford to their Science Museum where I saw the IMAX 3D shows, Meerkat, and Tornado Alley. Fun times. I did got through the exhibits, starting in the top floor and working my way down. Unfortunately, I ran into school groups on the last two levels, so didn't get the chance to experience all of the hands-on exhibits.

I was starting to get tuckered out, so I programmed my hotel into Suzy. I got sidetracked at the USS Chowder Pot IV, and had one last super delicious seafood extravaganza of a meal. Yum.

Now I'm chilling in my room with some playoff baseball. Happy that I decided to only taste test my Avery Sodas. I think all that cane sugary goodness would have given me a belly ache. Now to pre-pack for my departure tomorrow and relax.

Photos in no particular order include Avery's, Avery's sodas, me sporting some 3D glasses, and the room of "magic" at Fish Family Farm.

Day 4 - Sturbridge & back to CT

It's 3:18pm and I'm at the Savin Rock Roasting Company, waiting for my late lunch, trying to stay awake. So, why not start the blog writing early?

This morning started out a bit slow. Last night I had a post wedding buzz equivalent to a Sugarland concert. And then once I fell asleep, the drunk people returned to their room. Go figure.

I got ready and packed in time to meet half of the wedding party for breakfast, thanks to Marina, Matt's mom, for inviting me. The meal put my free Days Inn breakfasts to shame. And it was nice to be in the company if Matt & Brian's family.

I hit the road shortly after my meal, so I could make it to the Mystic CT Aquarium around noon. With kids off school, most were eating lunch when I arrived, so it wasn't too chaotic... well, until feeding time, when everyone hit the exhibits. I saw the penguins, baluga whales and sea lions get fed. Awesome timing!

And now I sit, waiting for my delicious seafood to arrive in West Haven, CT. Or as Suzy likes to say, West Haven Court.

Turn the clock ahead nearly 5 hours and I am snuggled under my covers ready to vedge out in front of the TV. After an extremely wonderful and clammy meal, which I had enough leftover for dinner, I drug myself over to the Pez museum in Orange CT.

I believe it was I-95 that I drove a total of 1.5 hours across the southern Ct, just miles from the Long Island Sound. I thought travel would be light for a Monday, but a suppose many people had Columbus Day off and were heading back to NY and NJ. I spied quite a few of those license plates. I'm glad I made it through safely with this speedy and wreckless bunch. Or maybe it should be "wreck full".

So, the Pez museum... It is what you would imagine, hundreds of Pez dispensers throughout history in display cases. I didn't buy anything because I'm really not a fan of The candy itself.

Beyond tired, I made my way to the next hotel. No dogs around tonight, but I'm once again right next to the elevator. Hoping to sleep well tonight, so I can make the best of my last vacation day tomorrow.

Today's photos in no particular order include. Penguins at the aquarium, my appetizer of stuffed baked clams, and the sports Pez collection.

Day 3 Auburn MA and Wedding

I woke up this morning a bit in the tired side, thanks to the drunk people down the hall. Yep, dogs on the floor slept fine, it was the stupid people that continually woke me up.

Anyway, I didn't want to hang around Sturbridge until the wedding and was in need of a warm drink. I plugged Starbucks into Suzy (my GPS) and was on my way to Auburn, MA. Plus, if the town was big enough for a Starbucks, then they would have shopping. Why did I need to shop?

I tried on my outfit for the wedding and realized I hadn't brought any accessories to go with it. Thus the need for shopping. So I found a new bag at TJMAX and a set of necklace and earrings that seemed to match perfectly with my outfit (you never know what you'll find at the Walamonster.)

Moving along, I made it to the wedding in time for my ushering duties which changed a bit because of the inclement weather forcing the ceremony to move inside. It was still a beautiful afternoon/evening, but that was expected considering the event involved Matt, Brian, and their family and friends.

I smiled, I laughed, I chitchatted, I ate, I drank, I danced, I collected hugs, and I had fun. That's the quick summary of the wonderful night.

Here's me and the newlyweds.

Day 2 Windsor Locks CT, Springfield MA to Sturbridge MA

Today's goal was to see the Titanic Museum and make it to Sturbridge for the rehearsal dinner, with enough time to iron the super wrinkled usher shirts.

I planned to get to the Titanic museum in Springfield around 10am when it opened. Little did I know (thank you google!) that there is a 208 Main St in Springfield and the outlying town of Indian Orchard. Definitely not the last time I'll be taking an overly circuitous route to get somewhere.

I found 208 Main, but it was a jewelry store, what gives? Well, small sign about 1x3 foot in the upper right of the front window mentioned the museum. Uh-oh, now what am I in for? Note: I drove by and walked past this building about 6 times before I concluded that I was indeed in the correct location.

The Titanic Historical Society had two rooms at the back of the store crammed full of Titanic and White Star Line pieces. The even had consoles from the ship/vessel that found the wreck, along with items from the movie.

It was amazing how knowledgeable they were. I guess it helps when you've been able to communicate with at least 45 survivors over the years. Not exactly the museum I expected, but for a measly $4, it was time and money well spent.

I slowly made my way east to Sturbridge where I was welcomed by half a dozen dogs in the Days Inn lobby. Mostly pugs and Boston terriers, and a handful of other breeds. Some sort of pug rescue group convention in a town over. No joke, I think the dogs outnumber the people in this hotel.

After a quick pitstop, I headed over to the rehearsal and then BBQ that followed. I made a couple stops in between the events and sadly got no random comments on my usher shirt.

Thankfully all at the rehearsal enjoyed them! It was a nice touch to help lighten the mood and was a nice ice breaker for meeting people. Too bad I can't wear it tomorrow. It was a nice evening and good to see Matt, Brian and their families. Tomorrow will be a lovely day, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

No clue how the photos will be posted, I typed this all on my phone. Pictures include the Titanic Museum store front, my hotel neighbor's door, and Brian, myself, and Matt.

Day 1 IL to CT

Today was a day of travel. I got to sleep in and thanks to Theresa picking up Sparky the night before, I could leisurely finish packing and head straight to the airport. I've had my bags searched by TSA, but I don't recall ever having a pat-down because they thought I had explosives in my bra. Anyway, shortly after, I was in Chi-town. The closest I got to Wrigley Field this year.

Before I knew it, my plane was landing in Hartford CT. I browsed the visitor brochures and found the missing piece to my vacation puzzle, Mystic CT. I grabbed my luggage and headed over to Budget to get my rental car. For an extra $3 a day, I'm now driving a Toyota 2013 Venza. Starting mileage 1,030! AND, I can play my iPhone music through the car speakers! I'm liking the start of this vacation.

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First Sugarland, Now Baseball

So, yep, I'm going to be in Sugarland withdrawal for quite some time. Now I have to keep my eyes open for new concert tours... maybe by P!NK or the very awesome Little Big Town. We shall see!

I'm already starting to fall into baseball withdrawal. My last outings all ended in rain. Thank you Isaac!

Last outing - Normal Cornbelters with Tom and Jim

We were so hopeful this game would be played, since the corn crib has a astroturf type of playing surface. Unfortunately, Isaac brought in thunder and lighting, so the umps called the game before it even got started. We retreated to Dunlap to play a baseball card game, baseball themed washers, and catch a little bit of The Goonies on TV. Still a fun evening, but I wanted a night out at the ballpark with Tom and Jim.

Second to last outing - Peoria Chiefs Fan Appreciation Night

I was supposed to meet a few friends at the game, but this was another one that didn't have a single pitch thrown. I watched the warm-ups, end of the year player awards, and a heck of a lot of rain fall from the sky. The Chiefs did a good job drawing out the evening and milking the concession stands. I guess they needed adequate time to drawn the 5 names that would we $1,000 each. Nope, I was not so lucky.

Third to last outing/Final game - Normal Cornbelters with Jim and Theresa

So, this trip was actually successful and I got to chit-chat with one of my favorite Peoria Chiefs from 2011, Pierre LePage. It was fun to be the only three people in the entire ballpark rooting on the visiting team, the Florence Freedom. They even made it to the playoffs. I'll admit I was tempted to drive up north to root them on, but couldn't manage with the weekday games.

As most know, the Cubs are beyond out of it this season, but I do look forward to catching a few more games on TV before the season ends. It would have been nice to get to Wrigley this year, but it wasn't in the cards. I guess I'll just have to wait until next year. Good thing I'm used to that.

Last Sugarland Concert Until...

So, I only had the chance to see Sugarland twice this year. I'm glad I squeaked out that last show just over a week ago in Memphis, TN. I know I always say this tour was better than the last, but with them putting the set list in our hands... this truly was the best tour!

Why did I choose Memphis? Well, it was the last indoor concert within driving distance. At the time I bought the ticket and reserved the hotel room, the thought of possibly being sick did not cross my mind. I was more concerned about being in a comfortable place at work to take the time off.

Sure enough, I figured out the work situation, but had to change my plans because of the Abu Dhabi cold I caught. I was going to combine the concert with a visit to Brian, Joyce and John in the St. Louis area, but refused to bring my germs into their house. That meant one more night in a hotel and then a full day driving back... ugh, would I have the energy?

Thursday, 8-23-12 - I worked a half day and then made my way through IL, down to Sikeston, Missouri. Roughly 5 hours away, leaving me ample time the next day to get to Memphis and do something touristy.

To fill you in on how I was feeling, the picture above helps show how cold I kept my room compared to my neighbors. I was not well and was en fuego.

Friday, 8-24-12 - I slept in a smidge and then packed up my things before heading to the lobby for a hot breakfast. I was unaware that a waffle maker = hot breakfast. I was disappointed, but full.

I drove to the FedEx Forum to check out the location for the concert and then promptly turned the wrong way down a one way street on my way to find my hotel. That got the ole heart pumpin'! With a lack of energy and little will to do anything, I decided to hit the dollar store, grab lunch, and relax back at the hotel.

I picked up some glow sticks and some materials to make some signs to bring to the show. I desperately wanted them to play the song So Long. I heard it live a few years ago, but they've never released it on an album. I also made the pick me sign, but as they should, they opted for a kid in the crowd.

Lunch was quite delicious. People suggested I go with BBQ and BBQ I did find!

I was looking for a cold treat afterwards, to help extinguish the fire left from the jalapeno filled hush puppies I unknowingly consumed. Unfortunately, The largest container of Baskin Robbins ice cream I've ever seen was just a big tease! But seriously, who puts jalapenos in hush puppies?


The home of the Memphis Redbirds, AAA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, was smack dab in the middle of downtown Memphis. I loved theses signs.

I didn't count the feet to the ballpark, but did find it. No chance to look in the gift shop because there was a game that night.

My stomach started to growl again and following people's advice, I set out to find some more BBQ. I asked a Denny's worker on break where I should go. He suggested to go down the alley to Rendezvous. Excellent recommendation!

I made my way back to the FedEx Forum and passed the Starbucks where I saw and chatted with Travis McNabb, Sugarland drummer, when I stopped to get the cool treat I had been looking for after lunch.

Being a Sugarland Fan Club member and the holder of a ticket in the Sugarpit, I was able to sneak into the venue early with the rest of the die hard fans. That equaled a spot about 5 people deep on the floor, even after I went to the restroom and picked up some beverages.


Beverages... yes, water, and Pepsi... a LARGE Pepsi, loaded with caffeine!


But what do I do with this enormous Pepsi when I don't have a cup holder on the seat in front of me? Set it on the ground and hope that someone doesn't kick over my overly priced drink? I think not!

This is how I roll... turn the camera case into a Pepsi holster!


Mission accomplished! I'm at the concert with a kick ass view and enough caffeine pumping through my system to stay awake. My usual enthusiasm was lacking, but I thoroughly enjoyed myself and documented this concert with photos.

Okay, now look closely at the photo below below. Do you see the rolled up neon poster board? Yep, that's my poster. I did not think about it's inability to flatten out prior to my handing it forward in hopes of having Kristian or Jennifer read it and play my song.

Not to be forgotten, I saw Canaan Smith again and also Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics.

Kristian first came out to hang a Happy Birthday banner from the mic stands and add balloons to Canaan's belt. We sang Happy Birthday. Then Kristian came out to put birthday hats on all the band members heads. We sang Happy Birthday. What's a birthday without cake? Well, Kristian had that handled and made his third and final appearance with a candle filled over-sized cupcake. We sang Happy Birthday.

Here's the fully white make-uped and glitterfied Dave Stewart and his 12-year-old daughter. I don't recall what song she sang, but she brought down the house.

After the show, I made back to the hotel in about 20 minutes. Almost the exact time Susie predicted. I know, crazy! My parking spot could not have been any better... no wait to get out!

Saturday, 8-25-12 - Still sick and now with a lack of sleep, I had to make my way home. I don't recall how many stops I made to pick up caffeine or hit the rest room. Definitely more than my fair share. The important part is that I made it home in one piece. And had plenty of time, 8 hours, to replay the concert in my head.

I'll spare you the masses of photos I took, but I'm sure glad I have them because I don't know when Sugarland will be hitting the road again.

What I learned today.

In no particular order:

1. Suzy smokes crack. - She gets me to my final destination, but this GPS unit takes me on some really circuitous routes!
2. Caffeine helps me stay awake on a drive, but I really need to pay attention to the time of day I start chugging a 32oz Big Gulp.
3. There are camels that live in Missouri.
4. Bo's BBQ is damn good.
5. My mind doesn't function well when filled with snot. (I tried to get into room 103... my room is 108).
6. Multi-tasking while sick and on meds doesn't work to well. (Last item remembered as my hand hit the doorknob to leave home... my concert ticket.
7. It's fun to ride shotgun with someone, so you can take in the scenery.
8. It's fun to chauffeur someone because you get to chit-chat and don't need caffeine.
9. Sometimes it's more fun to road trip solo because you can blare the music and sing at the top of your lungs as much as you want.

Later Peeps.

Abu Dhabi Cold

I can't believe there is only one full week of August left. It seems like the month just started and we're already three weeks in. I guess time flies when you're watching the Olympics. Other than taking in the Olympics, I've enjoyed several Chiefs games and the conclusion to a couple softball seasons.

I wish I had more to share, but my head is a quite fuzzy with the medicine I'be been taking to rid myself of this Abu Dhabi cold I caught. Why is it the Abu Dhabi cold, other than the fact that it's fun to say?

Well, Nicole, my new office mate, had a cold last week when we were asked to move our desks into the same room. I figured I could avoid her illness, but little did I know she had an Abu Dhabi cold. My Peoria, IL immune system was not ready for that one!

So, the week prior, Nicole had a visit from her sister-in-law who has been living in... you guessed it, Abu Dhabi! And yes, she had a cold. Nicole caught it and then promptly gave it to me. This Abu Dhabi cold is seriously kicking my ass!

Goals Met - Birthday Weekend Activities

I turned the official 3-2 this weekend and had a blast doing so. In preparation for the bid day on Saturday, I took Friday off from work. I managed to get a few things done around the house and met up with Mom for lunch.

Soon after, I was on my way over to the Iadipaolo's to have an Opening Ceremony Pizza Party with Sandra and the kids. Check out what round and ringy items were on the menu. Yes, we are dorks.

Even better, we had pizza rounds!

Sadly, I didn't even stay awake for the torch lighting, but I had a good excuse. Sparky and I had to be up early Saturday morning to make our way to Jubilee Park for Whitney's Walk. Here's Sparky itchin' for us to get parked so he could give me a walk. I couldn't keep track of the number of people he had us pass, nor can I remember all the comments they made about my furry little friend.

I checked online and this year Whitney's Walk for Life (Honoring life by supporting programs for depression awareness and suicide prevention.) raised over $106,000, with over $3,900 coming from my team and $165 being contributed by my friends and family! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

This pic doesn't do the green shirts justice, there were so many of us there. And the morning was perfect, just look at that blue sky, feel the breeze and know it was less than 90 degrees out.

After Sparky and I speed walked through the course, it was time to head home and clean up and continue to hydrate. Next up, blood donation with Tom and Sandra. First finger stick iron level was 12.4. I needed to be a 12.5 for them to accept my A+ blood. Second finger stick... drum roll please... 12.6! Boo-ya, take that iron level.

Moving along... after a mini wild goose chase, Tom and I met up with the family for lunch at Avanti's. Our seats were located near the entrance of the restaurant, with me facing outward, sporting the good ole birthday hat. Loved getting happy birthday wishes from strangers. Such fun!

Cake, who needs cake? Ice cream is where it's at.

The coolest present I had was from my parents. Or maybe this is more of a presentation of a present.
Here's the key:
- Find some Sugarland songs
- Choose some phrases
- Omit select words

Bada-bing, bada-boom, instant Sugarland Scavenger Hunt!

After rummaging through my parents' house while following my Sugarland clues, I attempted to get a nap in before heading to the Chiefs game with some friends. Surprisingly, even with the jam packed day, I was unable to get in much shuteye, but I was in luck.

I had a constant stream of Mountain Dew to keep me awake at the game!

To top off the fun game with Tom, Laura, Jim Vince, Kristin, and Nicole... not only did I get a frisbee, foul ball, my birthay announced across the P.A., but they had fireworks for me too!

Seriously one of the best weekends all summer!!!

Just Over Half Way and Only 2 Days Left

Alright people, it's time to search for that spare change in your couch and toss it my way. $35 more dollars and I hit my modest goal of $100 raised for Whitney's Walk.

Click Here to Donate

Cubs vs Cards July 21st

This weekend was a pre-birthday weekend! Tom got me a ticket to the Cubs vs. Cards game at Busch Stadium. I'd only been their once, for an Eagles and Dixie Chicks concert, so I was looking forward to a new and fun adventure.

Tom, his friend Jeff, and I headed out of Peoria around noon on Saturday to hijack Vince in Maryville. When we got down there, we hung out with Sandra and the kids a bit before leaving for the game. The funniest moment:

Vince: Hey, is that an ice cream truck?

(Tom and Jeff whirl around to the kitchen window.)

Tom: It's the ice cream man.

(We look around... Jeff has disappeared... 2 seconds later, he's seen running down the street, arms flailing!)

Absolutely Classic! 

He did not catch-up with the ice cream truck as it started to pick up speed the closer he got. Maybe the music was just playing too loud for the driver to hear. OR it could have been the crazy man chasing it down the street.

I'm happy to report we caught the ice cream truck on the flip-side.

Shortly after we headed to the game.

Here's a pic of our seats, courtesy of Craig and Jim who had seats in left field. Do you see me smiling? Top deck, third section to the right, second row from the top, 3rd seat in. Yep, that's me.


Tom and I decided to split a nacho helmet for dinner. My cousin, John, was too sure about us, but was pleased to get the Cards helmet after we were done.

If you watched the game, then you know it was good up until the Cards took to the plate in the 7th inning. Tom and I weren't too happy with the Cubs efforts that inning. Neither was Jeff (background). If the attempt at wearing the nacho helmet to break the double streak didn't work.

The best part about the seventh inning was when the Cubs got the third out. The whole crowd gave a standing ovation. Cards for the 12 runs, Cubs sarcastically for the 3rd out. No lie, the inning was so long, the sunset started and completed.

Our crew of 4 met up with my Uncle Brian and John for the game. After the game, Brian was kind enough to show us the control room where he works a majority of the Cards home games. 

They probably shouldn't have let a group of Cubs fans into the control room after a 0-12 routing.

Here's the Music Man... I mean Crazy Man, Jeff, playing the organ.

 Tom doing a little electrical work.

Jim taking on the P.A. system.

Craigers on replay!

Vince runnin' the scoreboard.

Don't worry, I had the Jumbotron covered.