Saturday, April 30, 2005

Unsolicited advice

Someone had some things to say about my little game the other day...
"It's actually sort of hard trying to pair up an actor/actress with a blogger--I mean, a blogger is so individual and representing them with someone who can only pretend to be them seems so insipid."

It is a game. For fun.
And what, by the way, about all the movies that have been made about people who are individuals? Like Malcolm X. Martin Luther King. Selena. Helen Keller. Lawrence of Arabia. The Marquis De Sade.
Was the idea of choosing actors to represent them also insipid?
My recommendation: Pull the stick out yo' ass. Lighten up.
That is all.

Okay, just this one time..

I have been tagged by both the ever-fabulous Nancy and the currently over-sexed always gorgeous Mimi for this one...

What follows is a list of different occupations. You must select at least five of them. You may add more if you like to your list before you pass it on (after you select five of the items as it was passed to you).

Of the five you selected, you are to finish each phrase with what you would do as a member of that profession. Then pass it on to three other bloggers.


Here's that list:

If I could be a scientist... If I could be a farmer...
If I could be a musician... If I could be a doctor...
If I could be a painter... If I could be a gardener...
If I could be a missionary... If I could be a chef...
If I could be an architect... If I could be a linguist...
If I could be a psychologist... If I could be a librarian...
If I could be an athlete... If I could be a lawyer...
If I could be an innkeeper... If I could be a professor...
If I could be a writer... If I could be a backup dancer...
If I could be a llama-rider... If I could be a bonnie pirate...
If I could be a midget stripper... If I could be a proctologist...
If I could be a TV-Chat Show host... If I could be an actor...
If I could be a judge... If I could be a Jedi...
If I could be a mob boss... If I could be a backup singer...
If I could be a CEO... If I could be a movie reviewer...


If I could be a proctologist... I'd give new meaning to the phrases "Shove it up your ass" and "Stick it where the sun don't shine". AFTER double-gloving, natch.

If I could be a writer... I'd write red-hot sex books. Steamy. REALLY steamy. With an actual plot-line for those who cared. Sorry boys, no pictures though.
(and no, it will not be modeled after my own nonexistant sex life. My memory doesn't stretch back that far)

If I could be a linguist... I'd learn how to say "Screw you, pal" in 57 languages. Just call me Ambassador to the world. Happy to do my part.

If I could be a backup dancer... Eh, forget it. White girls can't dance. ;) Well, this white girl can't, anyhow. Unless it's a two-step.

If I could be a lawyer... I would prosecute everyone who ever filed a stupid-ass frivolous lawsuit, and drag it out for years. And fight for the death penalty to be utilized for all child-molesters.

Now, who to pass it to?

MommaK, Janet, and True Jersey Girl...simply because I'd like to read what they come up with.
And naturally, I am also passing it to whoever else wants to play along. Drop me a comment so I can come see, if you decide to play. :)

Friday, April 29, 2005

I know you're busy an' all..

Dear Mother Nature~
Yo, Big Momma, wassup? You know I'm a big fan...however, I think we need to clear up a few things.
I know you've got a lot on your plate right now, what with tornado season here, hurricane season just around the corner, and the usual tidal waves, thunderstorms, winds sweeping down the plains, stuff like that...but seriously.
I have to tell you that I think you're...misdirected. Or perhaps suffering from early onset Alzheimer's. Personally I wonder if you could find your ass with both hands, a map, and a flashlight.
Why else did you decide to renege on our springtime?
I mean, hey, here in Okieland, we're pretty used to your games, for the most part...the way you like to tease us in the fall when you let it get up to 80º & then zip it all the way down to 40º in a matter of 30 minutes or so...the way you like to make it rain or snow whilst the sun shines, or bring the clouds in quicker than we can say "Bob's your uncle". No big deal.
But it's almost May, for crap's sake. We're supposed to be having a deluge of rain, complete with scary booming thunder and non-stop cracks of lightning. We're supposed to be having regular tornado warnings, and a sprinkling of hail just for funnies. We should come home every day and open up our basement/cellar doors, or keep a mattress near the bathroom for those unexpected F-4s.
So why the 45º high temp today, with a wind chill near freezing?
Did you get lost on your way to Greenland?
I respectfully request that you go back up North and take the Arctic weather with you. Stop punishing us. We're not the only ones responsible for pollution and the depletion of the ozone layer.
Seriously. I'd already turned off my heater for the year.
Gimme my springtime back. Or else.

Sincerely,
A Frozen-toed Monty

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Imagine all the people...

but first...

I am a horrible, horrible mother.
I have discovered that the top of my head actually comes off when I try to help my daughter with division.
I attribute this to the fact that I come from the Jethro Bodine School of Gazintas.
****BREAKING NEWS*****
Tomorrow I will be having a day of mourning for my beloved Constantine, who was just voted off American Idol.
I am now certain that the results are rigged.
According to the AI website earlier today...Creepy Guy Scott was in LAST place.
All I can say is, Scott~you're one lucky creep.


Now then. Many of you have a favorite book or two.
Or five.
Or a hundred. Or so.
Me too. Many of you may also have a favorite series of books, with recurring characters. Like...
Jonathan Kellerman's Alex Delaware.
Or J.D. Robb's Eve Dallas.
Lawrence Sanders's Edward X. Delaney or Archie McNally.
Perhaps Iris Johansen's Eve Duncan.
Patricia Cornwell's Kay Scarpetta.
John Sandford's Lucas Davenport.
Or Stephen King's Roland of Gilead.
Ed McBain's Matthew Hope or even the entire 87th Precinct.
Thomas Harris's Hannibal Lecter.
Maybe Perri O'Shaughnessy's Nina Reilly.
I could go on like this all day, for I have many more favorites....but I'll spare you.

Do you ever imagine that they might make a movie from your favorite book series?
And do you wonder who they might get to play your favorite characters?
Or is that just me?

So today's exercise is...well, you can each consider this a personal interview.
I have two questions just for you...and if you should decide to post your answers on your own blog, please drop me a comment so that I might come and admire your answers.
Or you can just answer here, in the comment section. Either way. Ready?


Pretend you are a casting director.
1. If you were to make a movie of your favorite character(s) in a book series...what actor(s) would you choose to play them, and why?

2. If you were to make a movie of your favorite blog author (based on what you read there), what actor/actress would you choose to play that author? (you may choose more than one if you like)

On your mark, get set...GO!

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Flabbergasted, dumfounded, and (nearly) speechless

but first...
Imitation is the sincerest form of...deliberately working Mommy's last nerve.


At first reading I was piiiiiiiiissed. Then I laughed. And wrote a really long, carefully thought-out reply, in typical Monty Manner. *snicker*
I do hope this font of wisdom enjoyed reading my reply as much as I enjoyed writing it.


What am I talking about? I'll just fill you in...
I have an ad up on a personals site, most of you know this. It has been, for several months, unavailable. Which means that should someone respond to my ad, they get a little message saying that this user is temporarily unavailable or some such.

The ad begins with "Who am I?" and offers a plenitude of information. It carries on to "What am I looking for?" and even MORE information.
The very last line is:
My dislikes:
Liars, cheaters, slackers, abusers, alcoholics. I'm pretty sure I've already dated you guys.


NOW.
Here is a message that appeared in my mailbox today from a 52-year-old dentist, complete and unedited.

"Hi you are beautiful! There is no point in you and I talking at all. I just wanted to give you some advice on your ad. I think you should delete that last part about liars, cheaters, and drunks, I am sure I have dated you. When you said all you did in your ad, and ended with that, we men can figure out that you have dated our types before, and we also know that means you have been around that block several times. We conclude that means that you have had all the wild times you want for now, and are trying to find a man that is nieve enough to not understand and live happily ever after with you.

I am not trying to be hurtful at all, I am just trying to tell you something from a man that has been around that block many times with women that hate liars, cheats, and drunks. It always ended up in bed.

Really I am just trying to give you advice that is true from the way we men see things! Either, don't be so revealing to we men and hope for the best, or just be completely honest and hope to find a man that is tired of playing also.

I do hope you reveive this in the manner in which I meant it.

I do wish you the very best! "



What manner did he mean it to be? Insulting and offensive, or does he truly think he's being a nice guy?
D'you think I should be offended? Would YOU be offended?
Or do you think my last line DOES imply that I've 'been around the block several times'?
I did include in my reply to this a-hole guy that I'd be sure to let him know how many people share his opinion...
*wink wink*

Having a lousy time, wish you were here..

Okay, so the plastic-faced Burger King guy and Quaker Oats guy are really creeping me out.


On the home front...

So the three interviews I had that one day last week...OH. MY. DAMN.
What a crock. Tell me this...if you went to an interview that was hiring for an account exec. at an advertising firm, what do you think the job would be like?
Not what I thought, obviously. Guess what it was?
Set up and display for some weird product I'd never heard of.

And two interviews with management companies for a manager turned out to be...CLOSERS. For crap's sake. Why didn't they just say that in the beginning and save us both the time? I don't WANT to be a closer. I don't LIKE that kind of job.
I walked out of the third interview as soon as I heard the word presentation.

Don't get me wrong~~a job is a job. And some people are most excellent at that sort of thing...natural born salespeople. I'm not one of 'em.

BUT...

I had a most wonderful interview on Friday.
If you're the praying type, say one or two for me.
If you're not...cross your fingers & toes for me.
I don't want to jinx it...but the interviewer liked me, and also said that I was personable and likeable. He seemed interested in what I had to say, and luckily the job opening is for something that I truly know down to the ground. Plenty of experience, and good ideas.
I was on, baby. I dazzled him with my brilliance.
Well, something like that.

Then I had to come home and take a nap, because being all 'perky' and stuff takes a lot out of a person. :)
Meanwhile, the search goes on...


In the news...

Five year old girl gets handcuffed and arrested.

I admit the whole handcuffing thing is over the top...but I can't disagree with the school for calling in the cops.

I feel two ways about the issue.
First and foremost, I think the child needs to be thoroughly evaluated, because there could possibly be a serious medical problem involved~~whether it be a chemical imbalance, autism, or some emotional disorder.

However. (and this is the part where many of you will want to burn me in effigy)

IF IF IF the child's behavior is NOT the result of any medical condition...

Then maybe an 'arrest' and a ride in the back of a cop car will be a deterrent to future abusive and/or criminal behaviour.
"SHE'S ONLY FIVE!" you may shout at me.
Yes, and that's old enough to begin to know right from wrong, acceptable behaviour from unacceptable behaviour.

What I really find most disturbing is that Mom is suing the school, and the cops, and probably everyone else she can think of.

Her attorney says that Mom, Child, and Vice Principal had had a "conflict" before, and Mom believes that the child was just 'acting out' against the VP this time because of a 'personality clash'.

Really?

That's sooooooooome personality you've got there.

Mom was called to come to the school to do something with the out of control child...and gee whiz, mom couldn't make it. Or wouldn't. Didn't.

What was Mom doing? Working? Okay, sometimes you can't get away from work~~as a single mom, I TOTALLY understand that.
Was Mom at home? Where was she? Why couldn't she go to her child?
Can we prioritize a little bit here?

Why does a 5-year-old learn to punch, kick, slap, destroy? Don't tell me that kids just do that sort of thing, because I don't buy that.
Mine don't. And didn't.
I didn't. My siblings didn't. I can't think of any of my family or friends whose children try to punch, kick, or even raise a hand to an adult, or authority figure.

Had I ever raised a hand to an adult...I can't even imagine what kind of punishment I would have received. It would never even have occurred to me.

So, not that I want that little girl to be sick or anything...but I lean toward wishing it is a medical condition that can be treated.


Now an Okieland town is having a big ol' debate about a children's book, and whether it should be shelved in the children's section of the library or the adult section.

I believe the book is called "King and King" or something like that.

Queen mommy tells Prince son that he must marry...

And he chooses another Prince.
You get where I'm going, right?
One picture shows (sort of) the two men smooching...only you don't see their lips touch, because there's a big heart blocking that portion of their faces.

So some parents are in an uproar, and want the book shelved in the adult's section so that parents can make the decision on whether or not their children read that book.
Other parents say that's censorship, it's a kid's book, and should be in the children's section. Parents can decide whether they let their child check out the book, but the kids would still have access to it.

What do you think? Where do you think the book should be shelved?


Regarding the Wendy's brouhaha with the fingertip...can't they just call in some of the CSI guys and get some DNA samples to match? :)
I prefer the Vegas CSIs myself...

Sunday, April 24, 2005

Flotsam & jetsam...and "The Game"

but first...
FREE TIP OF THE DAY: Let a smile be your umbrella...and you're gonna get your dumb ass wet.


and then...
My daughter was helping me in the kitchen, trying to get a new jar open. After several fruitless minutes of struggling, she handed the (unopened) jar back to me and said, "Here, I think I loosened this enough where you can get it now."

What a good helper. :)


after that...
I spent the WHOLE of yesterday getting my house "company-worthy". It was no small task, believe you me.
I got it done (working right up until the last minute, mind you)(my housekeeping skills are dubious at best), and had a lovely evening with friends.
AND since I was a good little girl and my house is ship-shape, I am treating myself to a FULL day of...
BLOG-READING. And of course, Michele's Meet & Greet.
Aaaaaaah. Bliss.


our top story...
It occurred to me that I neglected my image game last week! Silly Monty!
Today, just click the describing word to get to the picture I chose.


On deck today...

1. The Color Purple: I think she's simply INSPIRED.

2. Average Mom: I find her WHIMSICAL.

3. Monkey: One of the things I enjoy most about him...IRREVERENCE.

4. Christine: She's very WARM-HEARTED.

5. Tamara: She's incredibly TALENTED.


Tomorrow's edition...an employment update.

Friday, April 22, 2005

Intermission

We will return to your regularly scheduled Daily Bitch after a brief commercial break...wherein I fight to the death with AOHELL over the pillage of my bank account...namely, the $5 EXTRA bucks they're sticking to me for the convenience of auto-deduction.
Have they no sense of competition?!?

I am hoping to manipulate them into giving me some free hours...otherwise...OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!

I hope to live to fight another day.

Wednesday, April 20, 2005

Flirty McFlirterson

Confession: Apparently I am a flirt of the first water.
I don't (always)(or even usually) intend to flirt...I don't even realize I'm doing it when I'm doing it.
In fact, I probably wouldn't have realized it at all if it hadn't been brought (sharply) to my attention by a female "friend".
Can I help it I get along with boys much better than girls?

And I don't see it as flirting when I'm in conversation with a man that I find interesting...just paying good attention.
Can I help it that I am easily amused, and my laugh (neither tinkly, delicate, nor soft) grabs the attention of those around me?

I'm of the sort that prefers to make eye contact with whomever I'm speaking with...so they know I'm listening.
Can I help it that I appreciate a quick wit and a harmless touch on the hand?

Let's face it~~I'm never going to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. Or Victoria's Secret catalogues. Or FHM. Probably not even Ranger Rick.
So a girl's gotta use what the good Lord gave her. Right?
And since when is laughing in the appropriate places and genuine interest in your companion flirting?

My 'friend' says that I flirt with nearly every man I meet.

Maybe I do. But if so...it's purely accidental.

So I'm curious...what is flirting to you?

Is it demurely downcast eyes, fluttering eyelashes, a subtle lean-in so he can smell your perfume?

Is it wide-eyed innocence, a blush, and a giggle?

Is it winks and sidelong glances, body contact, and full-throated laughter?

Is it sexual innuendo, dirty jokes, and hair-tosses?

Please tell me that there are more unintentional flirts out there than just me. 'Fess up.

What a feelin'...

I would like to offer a huge and public THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! to everyone for the most excellent birthday wishes.
And a special THANK YOU!!! to Michele for sending many of you this way. I do hope you'll come back~~I love company.

Oh, and did I mention that the THANK YOU includes all the cake you can eat? :)



Award for Best Birthday Present...
...goes to my Mommy.

A delicious meal of meatloaf (shut up, I love it!) with all the fixins, strawberry shortcake for dessert, a new book, gift certificate for MORE books (YAY!), and a big bag o' homemade chocolate chip cookies, all for MEMEMEMEMEMEME.
Did I mention that my mom makes the best chocochip cookies in the world? I'm sure yours are delicious...but these are extra-special. YUM.

Guess what I had for breakfast today, along with a nice cold glass of milk for dunking?


P.S. Three job interviews for tomorrow...so far.
Go Me.

Tuesday, April 19, 2005

A Day Of Remembrance

Ten years ago today...

...I heard the explosion when our Federal Building was bombed by a madman.

...I saw the cloud of smoke and dust in the air from several miles away.

...I turned 27 years old.

...a bomb threat was ALSO called in to Children's Hospital, where both my children were residing.

...Mommy went a little nuts on the hospital staff for refusing to evacuate.


on a lighter note..
A Thing Of Beauty

...backpacks a-bouncin', curls a-bobbin', faces wreathed in smiles; my daughter and friend Sarah skipping down the sidewalk hand in hand, celebrating the sheer joy of being.


Hello, my name is 'Monty' and I'm a blogaholic.

I swear I almost passed out yesterday from the lack of blog reading and writing.
I had to tie up my computer with FAXES all day yesterday...but on the upside I sent my resume out to about a zillion people...which produced 3 phone calls today. :)

I must confess that I nearly stopped faxing TWICE in order to get online and read what's been going on with you...but in the interest of finding gainful employment, I managed (barely) to resist. Please congratulate me for the heroic effort.

So get the dirty underwear off the floor, I'm coming your way. And yes, I would love some coffee.

Sunday, April 17, 2005

My, doesn't everything sound prettier with an accent?

Top 5 "Designer Imposter" fragrances that you probably won't find at your friendly neighborhood drugstore...

1. Flatulencìa
Slightly sulfurous, with a top note of ass.
Perfect for a night of beer and boiled eggs.

2. Au Naturellix
Somewhat earthy, with an undertone of B.O.
Preferred by ladies who don't shave their pits.
not ME, it was my LEGS I didn't shave

3. Moisivert
Dark and mysterious...a versatile scent.
Nicely complements cleaning refrigerators and breadboxes.
When taken internally can cure gonorrhea.

4. Piedsueur
A greenish-type fragrance with the tang of cheese.
Good for athletic types.

5. Jet de Bogue
Zesty lemon with a middle note of Raid.
Nice for evenings in small, dark spaces, or outdoor summer nights when you're out of citronella.

To order, please send $29.95 +$5.00 S&H.
Hurry! If you're one of our first 100 callers, you will receive NOT ONE but TWO bottles of your favorite scent! That's right, a second bottle absolutely free!.
Plus, if you order now, we'll throw in the instructional video "How to wear Parfum" at no additional charge! That's a $30 value right there!
So call us in the next 10 minutes, and you'll get two bottles of parfum PLUS the bonus instructional video sent right to your door~~that's a nearly $90 value for the LOW LOW price of only $29.95!
Don't let this opportunity slip away~~ORDER NOW WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!


Do you think I've been watching too many infomercials?

and one more thing...
Regarding #6 on yesterday's list...don't knock it till you've tried it!
Go on, I dare ya.
YUM.

Saturday, April 16, 2005

True Confessions

or "Things You Now Know About Me That You Wish You Didn't"

1. I have been known to put the ice tray back in the freezer with one single ice cube in it.

2. When someone has called me to say, "Hey, we're about 10 minutes from your house, mind if we stop by?", I have occasionally played the Hide The Stuff game...including dirty dishes, dirty clothes, unfolded laundry, toys, books, and/or shoes.

3. I have watched porn...alone.

4. I have watched porn...with a partner.

5. I will not eat out of a package of lunchmeat after it has been open more than one day.

6. I like to eat bananas spread with miracle whip and cheddar cheese.

7. I have used my (considerable) feminine wiles to manipulate men.

8. I have caused a scene in public.

9. I have cried and/or flirted to get out of a traffic ticket.

and finally...
10. I once went more than 6 months without shaving my legs.




and now for something completely different...

Some favorite lines from some favorite movies.
Can you name any of them?
**any mistakes are solely the responsibility of this author's faulty memory

"She turned me into a newt!"
"A NEWT?"
"I got better..."



"Alex & I made love the night before he died...it was FANtastic."
"He went out with a bang, not a whimper."

"Killin' is my BIZness, ladies, and BIZness is GOOD!"

"Tit-head, go with my father."

"I don't want to sell anything, buy anything, or process anything as a career. I don't want to sell anything bought or processed, or buy anything sold or processed, or process anything sold, bought, or processed, or repair anything sold, bought, or processed."

"He's harmless. Part of the free speech movement at Berkeley in the 60s. I think he did a little too much LDS."

"Hey, don't knock masturbation. It's sex with someone I love."

"I just hate you and I hate your ass face."

"If he gets up, we'll all get up! It'll be anarchy!"

"Look how she moves! That's just like Jell-O on springs."


**UPDATE
on: Being Easily Distracted (I'm certain it is a medical condition)

So, I'm making some hamburgers, right?
There are two open containers on the counter where I am working...
One is Cain's Coffee Creme.
The other is Lowry's Seasoned Salt.

Guess which one ended up on my burger? *sigh*

Friday, April 15, 2005

Curiosity killed the cat.

I have more questions today.
Isn't that just fun?!

Take a look at your blogroll. YOURS. Not mine. Okay, you can look at mine too, but that isn't the point of the exercise.

We are a diverse group of folks, are we not?
However...

1. Would you say that your blogroll had a thread of commonality running through it?

2. Or do you like a good mixture of humour, political, informative, newsie, & religious type blogs~~which, when taken individually, have nothing in common with each other?

and finally...

3. Do you think these pants make my ass look big? (think carefully before you answer this one)

Thursday, April 14, 2005

Under the bright white light:

but first...
This morning my daughter said, "Mom, since you don't have a job, can you come to the school this afternoon so we can walk home together? I miss that."

Lordy, so do I. Beautiful day for a walk, innit?


and one more thing...
Isn't it lovely? My dogs finally taught my daughter how to fetch yesterday. Wow. ;)


Lately I have been surfing some new-to-me blogs, and I find myself wondering about the people behind them.
Now, I've got some questions, and I want some damn answers.


To that end I have decided to drip water ceaselessly on your foreheads in an attempt of the dreaded Chinese Water Torture...until you spill what you know.
Should that fail to get through to you, I shall employ the much worse and ever-effective Patrick Swayze method of torture...that is to say, I will repeatedly sing "I'm Henry the VIII I am..." until you beg for mercy.
With my singing (non)capabilities, it shouldn't take that long.

All clear?

I have a particular reason (or two) for asking these questions, although I am saving those for another post on another day.

I was just wondering...
1. Have you ever felt left out or gotten your feelings hurt by another blogger?
For example...(PURELY HYPOTHETICALLY)
Say a person asks you and four other people the same question, which you all answer in different ways.
Then you run across a totally different blog, and that author has linked to every person's answer except yours.

2. Do you become (even slightly) emotionally involved with your posts?

3. Knowing that a blog is NOT the sum total of the author's parts...tell me if you would agree or disagree (and WHY you agree or disagree) with the following statement:

Regardless of the material posted, aspects of the author's personality inevitably bleed through, unless every post they make is plagiarized.

And finally...
4. If you eat pasta together with anti-pasta...will you feel as though you haven't eaten?


BONUS QUESTION: Do you have any idea why this google search (food items you can insert in you're asshole) would lead someone here?!
For crap's sake. And they didn't even use the correct form of YOUR.

Wednesday, April 13, 2005

The A & Q Revisited

Everyone remember how to play? I give you my answer...you (in comments) leave the QUESTION.
Ready?

THE ANSWER: "No, because it gets all fuzzy."



It looks like number three came in the winner (I should mention that my vote counts as two). I certainly hope that you enjoy your (our) choice. :) Thanks for adding your 2 cents!



I am unhappy to report that this job-hunting thingie is seriously getting in the way of my blog-reading. I hope to catch up tomorrow. :) Be watching for me.

Tuesday, April 12, 2005

Two things.

First, I would just like to say thanks to The Good Doctors for the opportunity to guest post. I enjoyed reading all the wonderful feedback, even from the people who disagree with me. :) I didn't enjoy those quite as much, though. *snicker*

And then...

I got my FREE TEA from ADAGIO today! Unfortunately my Google ranking (or whatever they used) wasn't high enough to get the super-duper deluxe package INCLUDING the really awesome teapot thingie...but nonetheless, I am quite happy with my little tin of Rooibos orange and my little tin of Earl Grey green.
Thank you Adagio Tea!

Your assignment, should you choose to accept it...

*cue Mission: Impossible theme*


(1.) Okay, a few of you have emailed me to say that the black font might be just the teeniest bit difficult to read against the colored background.

(2.) So in the interests of pleasing you, my beloved and valued readers, I think it is only right and fitting that you should have a say in the choice.

(3.) As I'm certain that you have observed, this is a post of many colors...and your task is simple: let me know, by leaving a comment (or email: redneckmama1@yahoo.com), which is the easiest on the eyes.

(4.) The choices are numbered as you can see, so all you have to do is say "I like number 1 (or 2, or 3, or so on)".

Got it? Good.


(5.) Note that there are only a few choices; I do not want anything to detract from the general color-scheme.
Majority will rule (except for Monty's all-powerful veto), and all decisions will be (pretty much) final.


This message will self-destruct.


One week from today I will have to change my profile info. I just realized that 37 is only 3 years from 40.

Monday, April 11, 2005

I'd like to thank the Academy...

...and all the little people I had to step on to get here. ;)
You dream of this day...wondering if it will ever arrive.
And when it does, you're totally caught out unprepared.
My first-ever blog award.
And if you happen to think I'm undeserving, then I cordially invite you to bite me.
:)

Actually, I'd like to thank The Incurable Insomniac for
this fabulous honor! Steph's place is wonderful, and I love spending time there.

Thank you again, Steph, for thinking of me! I'm so flattered that I'm blushing.




in other news...
I'm having a particularly trying day. It got off on the wrong foot at 8am...
Due to liberal use of profanity and violence (giving it a PG-17 rating), I decided to post it here. My daughter nearly got run over this morning.

I must also offer a public apology and beg forgiveness to anyone who has the misfortune to come into contact with me today, because THAT situation has enraged me beyond belief. I'm still burnt about it.

Now I've got to continue my job search...boo.
Anyone need any help with anything? (anything you can PAY me for, that is)

Sunday, April 10, 2005

Does this make me look fat?

*sings* I'm so excited! And I just can't hide it! I'm about to lose control and I think I like it!

HEY HEY HEY...how do you like me now?

I must give a huge wet sloppy smooch and a bear hug to the wonderful designer CYBERVASSALS for my new and fabulous look.
She came up with all the stuff, I didn't have to lift a finger (except to copy and paste). THANK YOU THANK YOU TAMARA!
I also have to give some THANKS (and hugs & smooches) to TOMMY for sending me to Cybervassals. :)
Both of you are the best!


In honour of my new look, I have composed a limerick.
(albeit a sucky one)
ODE TO CYBERVASSALS:

There once was a fab blog designer
Who made my dull blog so much finer!
Tamara knew what to do
She can help your blog too!
If you go there right now and just SIGN HER.


*pause for applause*


Please go see Tamara and tell her how much you love what she's done here. :)
THANK YOU, TAMARA!

The Game...Part III

Now, so we'll have something fun to do while I await the completion of my make-over (and it's going to be great~~thanks to Cybervassals), I'm going to randomly choose 5 more people from my blogroll.

In case you've forgotten...
(I've tried to make the instructions simpler for those who've had a little trouble understanding it)
1. Choose a few blogfriends (I randomly selected 5).
2. Open your favorite search engine (I use Google) and click "IMAGES".
3. Think of a word or two that YOU think describes your blogfriend.
4. Do an "IMAGE SEARCH" on that(those) words
5. Select the image that YOU think best fits that blogfriend!

Get it?

REMINDER: Please don't be offended by any images or words chosen...take them as they are intended, which is complimentary.
REMINDER #2: Don't feel slighted if you don't see your name YET, I love you all equally and no-one will be left out. :)



Today's victims...

1. TISH: The word is EXPRESSIVE. See her picture!

2. Square1: INNER STRENGTH. There were SO many images I wanted to choose...check out THIS one.

3. Adamant: COMPLEX. Check THIS out!

4. Webmiztris: LOQUACIOUS. Look HERE!

5. Brandon: POIGNANT. See THIS image.

More next weekend...

Saturday, April 09, 2005

Hoo-AH!

It is over, finally over. I'm exhausted.

BUT....

Tune in tomorrow for...
My New Look
Next round of my li'l IMAGE GAME

And whatever else my fingers decide to type whilst my mind wanders whither it will.
Seriously, I have no control over the damn things.


but before I go...

My darling,

Well, it has been a long and wonderful run. These many years together seem like, well, many years. I remember when I first saw you...the time we spent together. The excitement that would build; the tension that strung our nerves so tightly. I remember the arguments, the love, the laughter, the sex. OH yeah.
It was steamy, it was complicated, it was ever-changing. It changed so much that sometimes I didn't even recognize you. But we persevered, you and I...on and on and on.
This is hard for me to say, but, the last 3 or 4 years I think the luster has...disappeared. I think we have outlived our usefulness together. The same old arguments, the same well-worn and well-used conversations and situations...I don't feel the new anymore. I'm so sorry.
You know it's true that I have rarely even bothered to see you at all the last couple-three years, except by chance. And unfortunately, it just wasn't the same for me anymore. You leave me with that not-so-fresh feeling.
I'm sorry.

Goodbye, ER.

I've moved on.
I have a new love now...
HELLO Grey's Anatomy.


and this just in...
Evidently that whiny-voiced annoyance Cameron Diaz is so afraid of losing her youngster boy toy that he had to appear with her on tonight's Saturday Night Live. Either that, or Lorne didn't think she was smart enough to carry the show on her own. BIG surprise there.

Friday, April 08, 2005

Now go away, or I shall taunt you a second time!

*does the Cabbage Patch*
nyah nyah nyah NYAAAAAH nyah!
I'm gettin' a MAAAAAAAKE-OVER!
From cyberVAAAAAAAAAssals!
And it is GOOOOOORGEOUS!
la la la LAAAAA la!

I can't wait to show it off. I think I just peed my pants a little.

My daughter, the connoisseur...

So, she wanted a glass of apple juice. I got the glass, she got the bottle from the fridge. She removed the lid from the bottle...and sniffed it.
For crap's sake.
Next she'll be swirling it around in her mouth and telling me about the 'bouquet'.


Two things.

1. Having a garage/yard sale is only fun until you actually do it.

2. My darling girl, in order to help us out, has decided to set her easel up near the driveway and paint pictures to sell to the customers.

Lord help me, she's going to end up a street performer yet. Or worse, a mime.

Now I must engage in some blog-reading...

Thursday, April 07, 2005

Decisions, decisions...

I am on the horns of a small dilemma.
Today, tomorrow, and Saturday we are having a huge yard sale. Cleaning out the crap, and getting people to give us money for it. Aaaah, yes...

Anyway, my time here will be extremely limited the next couple of days...so I have to ask myself: Do I want to spend my (ever so limited) time reading your blogs or would I rather spend it here, writing something simply smashing?

If you say "You're going to write something smashing? Yeah, that'd be a nice change" then I will most probably attack you with fresh fruit. Yes, I will come at you with this banana.
(Monty Python fans, you'll know what I mean)
:)
Anyway.
I think I've wasted enough time with this...and I've decided.
It's much more fun to read what you have to say.
So I'm off...and please forgive me if I lurk rather than comment. I'm speed reading today. :)
And if you're in my area the next 2 days, c'mon by! I'll make you a great deal on some crap.

Wednesday, April 06, 2005

The Great A & Q

Today's exercise is in tribute to Johnny Carson's Carnac The Magnificent...wherein I will give you my ANSWER...and then you, in comments, will pose the question.
Everyone got it? Good.

THE ANSWER IS: "Yes, and no matter how much glue you use, it's never quite the same."



MY SILLY MOMMY...

Anyone else out there watch the TV show Nanny 911? It is on FOX, Monday nights...check it out. If for no other reason than to make fun of the bratty kids and awful parents, and to heave a huge sigh of relief that your own kids aren't like that. (But if they were...now you know who to call).
ANYWAY.
I got my mother hooked on watching this show...and Monday night as she was watching, she apparently felt inspired:


**Please note that this is NOT what I really look like...and I don't even own a cape. And 'Shannie' is a much-loathed childhood nickname, especially when they used to connect it with pooh. As in "Shannie-pooh". My grandmother still calls me that. For crap's sake.
:D Thanks, mom, you utter nutter.

Tuesday, April 05, 2005

What's on my shelf?

Now, this game required some serious thought. Thanks, Brian, for making me have to think. You know how much I hate that.
;)

1. You're stuck inside Fahrenheit 451, which book do you want to be?

First I have to say that I haven't read this book since about 7th grade...I'm a little vague on the details. However, if I had to choose a book to memorize...I would be known as Anne...as in The Diary of Anne Frank. It is a story that ought to never be forgotten. Ever.


2. Have you ever had a crush on a fictional character?

Of course! In fact, up until I was 7 years old, I was completely convinced that someday I would marry Underdog. And naturally I've had a crush on the hero of every romance novel I've ever read...especially those Scottish Lairds...*sigh* Oh, and Luke from Gilmore Girls, played by (yummy) actor Scott Patterson.

3. The last book you bought is:

I think the last one was The Conspiracy Club by Jonathan Kellerman.
It has been entirely too long since I went book-shopping.

4. The last book you read:

The last book was a RE-read...The Dark Tower VII: The Dark Tower by Stephen King. I loves me some SK. Any time, any place, over & over.

5. What are you currently reading?

I have three books in various stages of completion next to my bed...Dean Koontz's Frankenstein: Prodigal Son, The Last Best Hope by Ed McBain, and an old favorite, Swan Song, by Robert R. McCammon


6. Five books you would take to a deserted island…and why?

Could I count a set of Encyclopedias as one book? No? Then...
First and foremost:
The Sas Survival Handbook: How to Survive in the Wild, in Any Climate, on Land or at Sea by John Wiseman. Need I state the obvious reason?

2. Like many other people, I'd take along a Bible...I'd choose the NIV (New International Version)~much easier to make sense of. I figure that finding time to (finally) read it and do some soul searching wouldn't be much of a problem...

3. I'd take The Oscar Wilde Anthology, because I'd need to laugh to keep my sanity. That dude was nuts...but funny.

4. The Stand: Expanded Edition: For the First Time Complete and Uncut by Stephen King...because
A)It's really, really thick, and
B)I've read it so many times already, I know I'll enjoy it.

5. And finally, Works of Mark Twain, Complete and Unabridged...because who needs an excuse to read Samuel L. Clemens?

I was going to bring The Complete Unabridged Works of Shakespeare...but it appears that everyone else is already taking that to their deserted islands, and there weren't any copies left. Typical.

7. What 3 bloggers are you going to pass the stick to, and why?
You mean I'm not supposed to actually hit them with the stick? That takes all the fun out of it.
So I'm passing it to all the other bibliophiles out there...go forth, and read.

Monday, April 04, 2005

Oh goody, I can die happy...

...because now I've seen everything.
For crap's sake.


But first...
Have you made it over to ADAGIO Tea yet? Don't you like Free tea?
They've got a lovely variety of ACCESSORIES, as well as Flavored Teas, Green Teas, Herbal Teas, Rooibos Teas, along with black teas, white teas, and decafs.
So go today...I really want to get some free tea. Help a girl out.


Our Top Story...
What would you get if "Texas Justice" collided with "Fear Factor"?

Well, I'll just tell you.
A show called "Eye for an Eye".
Last night my family and I were up at our (former) restaurant, just a-scrubbin' away until midnight or so.
Then I get home and try to wind down a little bit by watching the tube. Big surprise...Monday mornings at 1:00am there's really nothing on but infomercials and church.
Except for "Eye for an Eye".

Here's the lowdown...
The "judge" (if you were sitting by me you'd note the liberal use of finger quotes as well) is named Extreme Akim, complete with nameplate on the bench.
The viewing gallery could possibly also be known as The Dog Pound, including woofing and Jerry Springer-like chanting of "EXTREME AKIM! EXTREME AKIM!".
The "bailiff" was named Big Sugar Ray.

Wait, it gets better.

So this couple, who are in the midst of a divorce, decide to go to "Extreme Akim's" courtroom to have a dispute settled...over a parrot.
They are both evidently overflowing with love for this 'child' of their (now defunct) marriage.
He's got it...she wants it.
She's a stripper...he's a DJ at the same club.
He's a cheater/liar...she's a whore.
*note: this are not this author's opinions...just what they said on the show

With much laughter, eye rolling, posing, and otherwise annoying antics, the "judge" says that his decision is as follows:

As they both love this parrot so much, they must prove how much by eating...worms.
Yes, whoever can eat the most worms (live worms) will have proven their everlasting parrot-love and will win both the bird and the "bat of justice".

*sigh*
These two losers weirdos people are actually taken to a Thai restaurant (is that significant?) and served up a plate of 15 worms.
They both really must love the bird, because they both manage to down 'em right quick.
And are served up a plate of another 15 worms.

To make a long story even longer...
The stripper whore lady screwed up...she took a drink of her wine to wash down worm #26...and was subsequently disqualified.

More bickering and some worm-throwing ensues.

But just to salvage the happy ending...
Bald perverted creepy guy gives her the bird...and the parrot.


I am multi-faceted...

Thanks EVERYONE who played my little game!
(and especially the following people who actually put me on their lists)
THANKS TO:
MommaK for savvy:



Hey, my rack actually looks like hers. ;) Now if only my face did...

and to Elle for hilarious:




and to J&Js Mom for hysterical:


(and of course Brandie, who's pic of me I posted yestidday~~and who called me idiosyncratic I LOVE that.)

More coming next week...who will be taking the spotlight at the Daily Bitch?

Saturday, April 02, 2005

The Games People Play...

...Part II


but first...
Thank you, Brandie, for this:

I love it! Absolutely perfect. :)


I had so much fun with this yesterday that I thought I'd do it again today. And next week. And the week after. And...

Please read yesterday's entry if you want the rules of play.


It is difficult to choose which blogfriends to use first, as it is something to be carefully considered.
My selection process goes something like this:
Position cursor near blogroll.
Close eyes.
Point & Click.

Foolproof.
Except of course when I ended up at Neopets, BlogOklahoma, BlogExplosion, and my archives.



Today I offer you...

1. Norman: The word I chose was SATIRICAL. See what picture I chose!

2. Brandie: IRREPRESSIBLE. Click THIS!

3. Janet: SCINTILLATING. Check this out!

4. MommaK: SANGUINE. See what I found!

5. Brian: ELOQUENT. Click HERE!


As in yesterday's game...if you decide to play, please leave me a comment so that I can come over and admire what you've done!

Tune in NEXT WEEKEND for moreMOREmore...


and in other news...
I'm not Catholic, so I never really formed any kind of emotional attachment to the Pope. To be honest, he's not someone I ever really think about, except in the abstract.
I mean, I know there's a Pope, but I never can keep the names straight. I'm aware of his responsibilities and achievments, in a vague sort of way.

Imagine my surprise when I heard the news about the current Pope and was actually filled with sorrow. More than I thought I would feel.
And watching those people who did love him so...well, I cried right along with them.

Now I can say to you, my Catholic friends, with complete heartfelt sympathy...
I'm so sorry for the loss of the Pope.

Friday, April 01, 2005

In the spirit of...

...delectable drinks
Love delicious, well blended Tea? Then I urge you to please go see the incredible selection at Adagio Teas. You'll be glad you did.


...the well-known Able/Elba palindrome, I offer you this in a home-state tribute:

A slut was I, ere I saw Tulsa.

*sits back & waits for the boys to come a-knockin'*


...the most wonderful, creative games that Michele gives us:

I introduce to you a game I first played on my livejournal, long, long ago in a galaxy far, far away...

1. Choose a search engine, click on "Images"
2. Choose a blogfriend
3. Think of ONE or TWO words that you think best describes aforementioned blogfriend.
4. Do an IMAGE SEARCH on that word.
5. Pick an image~~the one that makes you say "AHA! That's IT!"

Cake and pie. Really. (piece of and easy as)

**Note: These images are not intended to be unflattering or offensive, so I encourage you to receive them in the spirit in which they were given, which is completely complimentary (in my own 'special' way)

I'll start...
I will choose 5 blogfriends today, and post their name, the word I chose, and a link to their picture.
Do not be disheartened or feel slighted if I did not choose you...the fun has only just begun!
*has delusions of grandeur*

I'm just going to start in the middle and work my way up and down the list...


1. Michele: The word I chose was ELEGANCE. Click HERE to see what I found!

2. Mamacita: EARTHY. Click HERE!

3. Mimi: EMPOWERED. Click THIS!

4. Tommy: ZANY. CLICKIE CLICKIE!

5. Sigmund, Carl, & Alfred: ERUDITE. See what I found.

Now, if you decide to play, please be sure to leave me a comment so that I may come over and admire your handiwork.



"I'd hate to be that guy Will...people are always firing at him."~~aka_monty

Random Scramblings...

"Thou shalt not kill"

Now that's just good sense.


Even though my kids are at school...is it weird that I watched Sesame Street anyway?


I think the mere mention of the words "feeding tube" will be enough to send people into a frothing frenzy for some time to come.


So...I find myself to be a lady of leisure, at least for a few days. *sigh* Yesterday marked the official closing of my parents' business. The poor little place looked so sad and forlorn with the walls stripped bare...
But we still have the top-to-bottom cleaning to look forward to on Sunday.
Oh joy.


Things to do...
1. Get transmission fixed/get new vehicle. (at this point I'd be happy to have MuzikDude's Demon car)
2. Find funds to accomplish #1.
3. Get a job.
My week is looking pretty full.


From the hallowed halls of Dustbury...

"A farmer in Cabot, Vermont was convicted of starving his cows to death; his one-year sentence was suspended, though he will serve 30 days on a work crew."

We also have a case here in Okieland of a guy (I think he was even a vet...but I could be wrong) starving his horses to death...although at present I'm not sure exactly what the sentence was. I believe he was slapped with a hefty fine (anyone out there who remembers the story care to point me in the right direction?).

At least these guys got some punishment, however slight...because starving animals to death is just wrong.
Which brings to mind the (rhetorical) question:
If Terri had lived in Okieland or Vermont...would the end result have been any different? Or does everyone just care more about the suffering of animals than what people might be suffering?


As my children grow, I have come more and more often to recognize and admire the amazing fortitude of my mother.
Letting us ride our bikes all over creation.
Walking around our (admittedly tiny) town even after dark, even alone.
Staying home alone (and/or babysitting my brother) all day, every day, during the summer.
Letting me drive for the first time by myself to a city 30 minutes away.
Going on my first parent-less date.

I fear and loathe the thought of my daughter doing most of those things.
When she walks to school by herself in the mornings...she is required to call me when she gets there.

I don't know how my Mom stood it.

New 'Meme O' The Month' will be up later today, in case anyone cares.


As today is April Fool's Day, tricks and jokes and tall tales are the order of the day. However, I strongly request all pranksters to stay far, far away from me today, as I have a full-blown case of PMS and my sense of humour has gone south for the duration. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
The Management