Who Knew?

Disneyland closes when they get "full." That occurred today by 10:30 am. We got there late in the afternoon. So, we bought 2-day "park hopper" tickets and spent a few hours at California Adventure (that's all you need really, in my opinion). We then got some dinner during the fireworks show at Disneyland and went to the Enchanted Tiki Room.

We will return to Disneyland on Sunday. New Year's Day.

I hope I'm not too hungover.

So I figured out one of the reasons why I get kind of grumpy around the end-of-the-year holidays. It's because I usually have to work. I took time off once in my eleven years at this job. The nature of where I work and what I do means some people are always on. I hated coming back to work on Monday, very tired and wanting to be at home reading my new book or eating some of my Christmas candy. Very childish, I know.

In spite of being in such a bah-humbug mood this year, I really ended up having a wonderful weekend. It was a crazy week of shopping, since I did it all last week, but I got it done. On Wednesday night, we got really lucky and were able to get tickets to a show in our neighborhood that has been sold out.

The Troubadour Theater Company, or The Troubies, put on an annual holiday show at The Falcon Theatre. This year it was Little Drummer Bowie. I was dying to see it, as I love David Bowie. I've only seen one of their show before which was It's A Stevie Wonderful Life, which was hilarious. They parody a well-known holiday story as a musical with songs based on the artist. I laughed so hard that I'm surprised I didn't pee in my pants.

On Friday, we headed up to Solvang with the dogs. We got a late start and the town shuts down pretty early. We were really hungry, but all of the restaurants were closed. So, we put the dogs in their crates in the hotel room and went to a nearby Native American casino for food. It was pretty crowded as the Brian Setzer Orchestra had just finished a show.

We got up early on Christmas Eve morning and had a nice breakfast, then walked around Solvang with the dogs. Of course we indulged in Aebleskivers, a Danish treat. Basically, it's a pancake ball covered in raspberry jam and powdered sugar. So delicious!

Solvang shuts down at 2pm on the day before Christmas, so we were back in the car and hitting the road around 3. We got back home just in time to hit the Griffith Park Light Festival, a drive-by holiday light display put on by the Department of Water and Power every year. I'm hoping to upload those photos soon! There are some photos here.

After dropping the dogs off at home, we took in a quick meal at an Asian buffet and headed over to our neighbors' house for their annual Christmas Eve shindig. It was fun and I stayed way too late. I also had a little too much holiday cheer and was admittedly a bit buzzed when I went to feed Ren's cat and wrap Eric's gifts. Oh yeah and first I had to go buy some wrapping paper. So, I got to bed around 4am. Eric was snoring away already and Santa had visited!

We slept in and took our time opening gifts. We each got an out of print book for each other, ones we'd had as kids that we missed. Neither of us had any idea we were doing that, so it was pretty cool. Christmas Day means going to the movies for us. We actually went to two films, two of the most politically incorrect movies out in theaters right now: The Ringer and Jesus is Magic. I enjoyed both of them.

Since we'd had Asian food the night before, we went to a Jewish deli for Christmas dinner. Since Hanukkah started the night of the 25th, we also lit the menorah and exchanged a gift. It was a bummer to go back to work on Monday. I was exhausted.

The holidays continue on for us with five more crazy nights of exchanging gifts. I'm working this coming weekend, so I have the next two days off. We really missed our Thanksgiving trip to Disneyland, so we are going tomorrow! Good times.

Thanks to everyone who shared their holiday traditions with me. I enjoyed reading about them. I hope to have more links to photos soon.

Back to work in a few hours.

Guess I'd better get to sleep in my sweet new Napoleon Dynamite pajama pants!

Happy Chrismahanukwaanzakah!

Finished wrapping gifts, for now. I must sleep, so Santa can come down the chimney! ;-)

Holiday weekend recap at a later time.

I still haven't written about Little Drummer Bowie yet either, but I will.

Peace to all.

Traditions

I'm a fairly untraditional person in many ways. However, I do find comfort and pleasure in certain rituals. Everyone has their own (or none, which is cool too) for this holiday time of the year. Over the 11 years that Eric and I have lived in L.A., certain holiday routines have evolved. As with everything in life, they do vary time to time, but within the general idea.

For one thing, we are secular and celebrate the holidays in fairly non-religious ways. Our families live very far away and most of our friends head out of town. Also, due to my job, I don't get the standard time off, unless I put in a special request that gets approved. I have today off because I always have Friday off. I'll be back at work on Monday.

Some years I put up a small, artificial tree that I enjoy decorating with ornaments, many of which I've had since childhood. That didn't happen this year and it's okay. I was really sick last week and I just wasn't in the mood. I will probably pull the stockings out though, as we have fun filling those up on Christmas eve. Okay, so I broke down and just pulled out a smaller pre-decorated tree that I got at a party last year. I put it by the fireplace and even strung some lights on it. Hung the stockings by the chimney too.

Typically, I ask for Christmas eve off from work and am lucky to be off again this year. We like to go to Solvang, a Danish town a couple of hours northwest of us. (For anyone who saw the movie Sideways, [I haven't yet!] it takes place in and around Solvang). Anyway, we usually spend the 24th walking around the town and window shopping. This year, we are actually going up there later today, with our three dogs, and staying the night. We found a pet-friendly hotel and thought it would be a fun overnight get-away. That way, we can get in plenty of window shopping tomorrow and get back home early in the evening.

As for the night before Christmas, there are a few more traditions. A couple of our neighbors have a party each year that coincides with the arrival of the Magical Christmas Caroling Truck (no, I not kidding!) in our neighborhood. Everyone heads outside to enjoy the festivities and then return to the party for more merriment. After that, we usually build a fire in our fireplace and watch the A Christmas Story marathon. I usually go to bed first, but set my alarm for some weird hour, like 4 or 5am. Eric will put my gifts out after I'm sleeping. I get up after he's gone to sleep and put his stuff out. We really like trying to surprise each other.

After opening gifts on Christmas morning (or afternoon, depending on how late we sleep!), we usually go to the movies. My recommendation for this year is Jesus is Magic, the Sarah Silverman film. It just seems appropriately wrong somehow! Or is that wrongly appropriate? After the movie, we'll try to find somewhere to eat. I think we often end up at an Asian restaurant.

In addition to the Christmasy type stuff, we light the menorah as well, exchanging gifts for eight crazy nights. Many of those nights are silly little things like dreidels or chocolate coins. I've been pretty scroogey and bah-humbuggy this year, but now that I'm not so sick, have done my shopping, and have a couple of days off from work, I'm feeling it a bit more. I'm really looking forward to Solvang, Christmas eve with the neighbors and Christmas day with Eric. I pick up Hanukah candles today.

I won't even get started on New Year's Eve though. Now that drives me crazy! I find it to be so overrated and my expectations always outweigh whatever I end up doing. We actually have a couple of cool ideas this year and if something good pans out, my attitude may change.

So, anyone want to share their holiday traditions with me?

2005: The Year in Questions

I saw this year-in-review thing on my sister's blog and copied it:

January
1. Did you have a new year's resolution this year?
Yes and I did not keep it. And I'm not telling what it was.

2.Who kissed you at midnight?
Eric. I probably kissed him though.

3. Does it snow where you live?
No, thank goodness!!!

4. Do you like hot chocolate?
Yes, especially with a bit of peppermint extract and lots of marshmallows!
Or with rum. Lots of rum.

5. Have you ever been to Times Square to watch the ball drop?
No, but it would probably be fun. Just too cold. New Year's Eve tends to be a bit of a letdown for me because I build it up too much. I've had some good ones though.

February
1. Who was your Valentine in 2005?
Eric

2. What did your Valentine get you?
This is terrible, but I don't remember. I'm pretty sure it was a dvd, but I don't know which one.

3. When you were little, did you buy valentines for your whole class?
I don't think so, but don't really remember.

More important than Valentine's Day, is that Eric and I celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary in February '05. It happened to fall on the same weekend as the Academy Awards, which we usually have a big party for at our house. So, we booked a restaurant and held an Oscar/Anniversary party for about 100 guests. It was a blast!

(Oh yeah, and we saw Duran Duran in concert that weekend and were given a new car--Scion xB--as a gift! So, February was probably the best month!)

March
1. Are you Irish?
Not that I officially know of. There is a lot of Western European lineage in my genes, so maybe a little, but not enough to count!

2. Do you wear green on St. Patty's Day?
I do because I work with kids and know I'd get pinched! I wear a green and white bracelet that someone made for me that is sentimental.

3.What did you do for St. Patty's Day in 2005?
Went to work, ate some dinner, probably watched tv. I have no idea, but know I did not do something celebratory.

April
1. Do you like the rain?
Nope. I detest it usually. I'm happy to live in a place that rarely has rain.

2. Did you play an April fool's joke on anyone this year?
Probably. Remember, I work with kids. I don't remember anything specific. (Do you see a trend with my memory?)

3. Do you get tons of candy on Easter?
No. I don't celebrate it. I do buy jelly beans and Peeps for myself though since I love those and they are on the shelves then.

May
1. What's your favorite kind of flower?
Daisies.

2. Do you like the spring?
Yes.

3. Finish the phrase: April showers bring may flowers, what do May flowers bring?
Sneezes!

4. What would you think of as a spring color?
Pastel green, pastel blue, yellow, pink.

June
1. What year did you graduate from school?
High School: 1988
College: 1992

2. Did you go on any vacations last June?
No. We were supposed to go to a family wedding in Philadelphia, but Eric got very ill and couldn't travel.

I did attend the L.A. Film Festival though, which was lots of fun for 10 days.

July
1. What did you do on the 4th of July?
I worked during the day.

That night, I went to the Hollywood Bowl for the annual 4th of July with fireworks show with a group of friends.

I was a little sad because we usually go to Mammoth Lakes with the dogs for 4th of July, but couldn't this year. I hope we get there next summer.

2. Did you go on any vacations during this month?
Yes. I went to a conference in Niagara Falls, NY, but also took a couple of days to visit friends in Ithaca and Lewiston. I also went to Comic Con in San Diego, something I do every year.

August
1. Did you do anything special to end off your summer?
I went to a couple of concerts and took a class.

2. What was your favorite summer memory of '05?
Visiting with college friends in New York.

3. Do you go swimming a lot in the summer?
No, but I do like to swim.

4. Do you go to the beach a lot?
No and I love the beach. We didn't go even once last summer. Boo! My favorite local beach is Westward Beach. It's quiet and beautiful. I enjoy hiking up and around Point Dume.

September
1. Did you attend school/college in '05?
No.

2. Who is/was your favorite teacher?
Ms. Shaw, my 11th and 12th grade French teacher.

3. Do you like fall better than summer?
Here in Southern California, fall is often an extension of summer. I like both. I do miss the autumns of the Northeast.

October
1. What was your favorite halloween costume ever?
Wow! I love Halloween and getting dressed up. My favorite costume ever was a sock monkey. Eric and I made costumes and they were a big hit. We used them a couple of times.

2. What's your favorite candy?
At Halloween, candy corn.

3. What did you dress up like this year?
I had 3 costumes! For work, we did Peter Pan and I was John Darling.
For a zombie ball I went to that weekend, I was dead Raggedy Ann.
On Halloween night, I was a bottle of ketchup. (Eric was mustard and our dog Rusty was a hot dog).

November
1. Whose house do you usually go to for Thanksgiving?
Mickey Mouse's!
Most years, we go to Disneyland on Thankgiving. This year we went to Eric's mother's since we were back East for his 20th year high school reunion.

2. Do you like stuffing?
Yes, usually. I'd rather not have oysters in it though.

3. What are you thankful for?
Being alive and relatively healthy, my husband and family, friends, my dogs, good live music, the internet.

December
1. Do you like Christmas?
It's okay (see previous posts).

2. Have you ever been kissed under mistletoe?
Don't know.

3. What do you want this year for christmas?
World peace would be nice, but is unrealistic.
I want Eric to like his gifts.
I'd love a new camera, but don't really need one, so that's just selfish.

4. What's the best present you ever got for Christmas?
As a kid: Charlie's Angel's tree house, Weeble's Marina, Bionic Woman board game.

Last year was hilarious because Eric and I bought each other the exact same juicer for Xmas!

5. Do you like cold weather?
Absolutely not!

Why Do Cats Hate Me?

Okay, why does one particular cat hate me?

Love bites, my ass.

I know she's pissed off because her mom left her alone for the holidays, but geez! I feed her, I coo at her (oh, maybe that's the problem?), I pet her, I wiggle that feathery thing on the long stick in front of her (cats like that, right?) and what do I get?

Hissing and biting!

Ungrateful feline! Luckily, I don't believe in cruelty to animals or I'd let her starve!

Maybe I smell too much like my dogs.

Ren, if you are reading this...I am totally kidding. I would not not feed Audrey. I'm sure she'll settle down a bit soon and we'll rekindle that bond we once shared for 10 minutes. : )

Pa rum pum pum pum

I laughed my ass off
Little Drummer Bowie rocked
Camel stole the show!

More later...

Oh Pooh!

A co-worker called me "Eeyore" today. Oops. I was trying to not let on that I'm kind of gloomy and not feeling very festive. We were doing our holiday gift exchange thingy and I picked #2. I commented that I was bummed to get such a low number. Well, it all worked out for me in the end. I picked a good gift and no one stole it.


It's a little green Starbucks tote bag with a travel cup and a package of coffee. I know, I know, I've had a beef with Starbucks lately, but I'm a sucker for a tote bag, especially a cute little tote bag I can use for work.

As for my snarky co-worker, well I gave her some snark right back later in the day.

Happy Annoyingly Expensive Pain-In-The-Ass Time of Year or whatever you like to call it. I'm going to take a nap.

There's a Frog In My Throat!

Back to work today. Hectic, as I imagined it would be. It will a very long day and week, I think. I'm still hacking a bit and am losing my voice even more. Unfortunately, my job involves a lot of talking, which isn't working out so well. I have to give some reports in a meeting in a few minutes. I can't imagine it will be pleasant.

Well, aren't I just Miss Mary Sunsine today? I guess I just have a bad case of the Mondays!

(okay, I just watched Office Space when I was home sick last week. I keep hearing that chipper woman's voice in my head today!)

On The Mend

I am feeling a bit better. I just have a lingering cough, which is annoying. It kept me up most of the night last night and made me run out of a concert during one of my favorite songs. I'm also losing my voice and having difficulty carrying on conversations at noisy holiday parties, as I found out earlier tonight.

We saw Nickel Creek at The Wiltern last night. They were great. Just fabulous musicians who build a great rapport with the audience. My only complaint was the 7-foot tall giant who was sitting in front of me. I am not exaggerating, in fact I may be underestimating his height. He was at least 7-feet tall. Luckily, I was on the aisle and was able to lean out and even take a couple of photos.

Chris Thile, Andrew Bird, Sara Watkins,
Mark Schatz, and Sean Watkins

The Wiltern, 12/17/05

I'm heading to bed now to get some rest as I'm going back to work in the morning.

The Seven Sevens

Susan tagged me for this, so here goes:

Seven Things To Do Before I Die
1. Travel to New Zealand
2. Get out of debt
3. Get in shape
4. Travel around the continental U.S. in an RV
5. Publish a book
6. Make another film
7. Learn how to use Photoshop proficiently

Seven Things I Cannot Do
1. Carry a tune
2. Accept a compliment graciously
3. Finish most things I start
4. Wake up without snoozing my alarm clock
5. Speak another language fluently
6. Get into the "holiday spirit" this year
7. Breakdance

Seven Things That I Admire in Others
1. Intelligence
2. Open-mindedness
3. Sense of humor
4. Thoughtfulness
5. Creativity
6. Tenacity
7. Snarkiness

Seven Things I Say Most Often
1. Craptastic
2. Absolutely
3. Clusterf--k
4. Yep!
5. No f--kin' way!
6. Off!!! (to my dogs)
7. Hey

Seven Books (or Series) I Love
1. Harry Potter (all 6 so far!)
2. The Secret Garden
3. The Catcher in the Rye
4. Stiff
5. Travels With Charley
6. 1984
7. To Kill a Mockingbird

Seven Movies I Have Watched Over and Over Again
1. Empire Records
2. The Sound of Music
3. Babe
4. A Christmas Story
5. Sing Blue Silver
6. Shaun of the Dead
7. Lord of the Rings Trilogy (okay, I know that's 3 movies...)

Seven People I Want to Join in Too
1. Ren
2. Dianna
3. Donovan
4. Laura
5. Karenna
6. Anyone else who wants to
7. Yet anyone else who would like to

Barenaked Holidays

Well, the good news is I'm not dying. Well, at least not of the plague or bird flu. I waited over two hours in urgent care (no appointments available at my doctor's office) for the M.D. to tell me I had a bad viral infection and that I was doing all of the right things to treat it. He does want me to stay home from work for the rest of the week, so I got a note. And he also gave me a prescription for antibiotics if I haven't improved by Friday.

In spite of my illness, I did go out Tuesday night. I've had tickets to see Barenaked Ladies for a long time and couldn't miss it (no Jerry, not real naked ladies!). They played the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, which is a very strange concert venue. I bought floor seats, in the center section, thinking it'd be good. I was so wrong. The floor barely had any slope to it and we were far enough back that I could not see at all! I am absurdly short, but had worn big shoes to compensate and that still wasn't cutting it.

Luckily for me, the show was not quite sold out. I noticed some empty seats in the upper section and figured I'd rather be further back and able to actually see, so we headed up there. It was great. I could see the whole stage and I got to sit. Now, I am not one to sit at shows. I'm usually up and dancing my ass off, but being sick, I was probably better off taking it easy.

The show was great. I've seen BNL many, many times. In fact, the first time I saw them was almost 10 years ago to the day. They are on a Holiday Tour right now, the stage complete with fireplace, stockings, a Christmas tree, and Santa Claus. Along with many of their regular songs, they sang holiday covers and originals as well.

Outside the venue were big signs stating, "NO PHOTOGRAPHY!" I nearly got busted for my camera by security going in, but the woman checking my purse was a bit daft. I had my camera, which isn't small, in an inside pocket in my bag. She was feeling it, saying, "I feel something here...hmmm...is it an iPod?" She then looked and said, "Oh, it's this makeup case. Okay, go on in." So, I snuck some photos using my new telephoto lens. My camera doesn't have a great zoom, so Eric got me the lens and it worked well.



I got some pretty decent shots, considering I was in the upper back of the place. More can be seen in my BNL flickr set. The band was "on" and seemed to be having a good time. The set list was great (apparently picked for the night by Jim Creegan, bass) and included "King of Bedside Manor," "The Flag," and "These Apples," a few songs I really didn't expect to hear. The concert didn't cure me, but helped me forget feeling so shitty for a couple of hours.

Back to bed for me. I have a virus to fight off.

Still Sick...

...as a dog.

I will probably seek medical attention today. It is that bad. Ugh.

I removed my little rant about Cingular. It was just inappropriate.

Link-O-Rama

I continue to feel awful. I think I might have a slight fever. I keep getting really hot and then suddenly will be freezing. My head is pounding and I have various other symptoms that I'll refrain from describing. I've slept so much, but may be going back to bed soon. Here are some links in the meantime:

I guess I should get me one of these. Especially if I end up going to work tomorrow.

There's a new 30-second movie parody with bunnies and it's wonderful. Check out A Christmas Story.

None of my haiku quite compare to these wonderous Peep Haiku.

If you'd like to see the better of two photos my dog Rusty took with Santa this year, click here.

Okay, here's the link for the not-so-good photo with the better Santa who looks like he's choking Rusty!

Frozen Peeps: A Cure For What Ails Me

I'm sick. I was hoping it was just an allergy attack yesterday, but no, it wasn't. Ugh. I'm not sure if I'll be able to go into work or not tomorrow. I'm going to wait and see how I am in the morning. I'm really bummed that I was too ill to go to the Bazaar Bizarre with a couple of friends this afternoon. I was really looking foward to it.

One bright spot in my weekend has been the discovery of the joy of frozen Peeps! I was clued in by a couple of co-workers last week, so I marched out and got some festive Peeps (snowmen and Christmas trees!) and stuck them in the freezer. I wasn't sure what to expect, but the results are wonderful.

Freezing the Peeps is a way to get the stale Peep consistency, but much faster. You get a somewhat crunchy outer layer and a soft, but not as gooey, inner layer. Yumtastic!

I'm going to have some chicken soup and go back to bed. I just can't seem to get enough sleep.

P.S. Possibly only one of my readers knows about this, but the "lost" PSP was found today...by me. We were about to write it off as gone though. I'm glad we found it, but now I have to think of something to buy him for the holidays instead of just a replacement!

I Feel Like Crap

Sore throat.

Headache.

Lots of gooey secretions.

If this messes up my plans for a cool outing with Ren tomorrow, I'll be pissed!

Off to bed.

'Tis The Season...

...oh, come on. I'm kind of scrooge-y and bah humbugish, so this is not a jolly holiday post.

What I wanted to say was it's the time of year when our opportunities for free film screenings multiply. As the year comes to an end, the studios want their films out there for Oscar® consideration.

Last night we saw King Kong. Since it hasn't opened yet, I'll reserve comments and any reviews for a later date. Next week we'll be seeing Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire (again! I did pay to see it once), and Narnia. I'm happy to not pay for Narnia since I wasn't really excited to see it. I ended up being too sick for the HP and Narnia screenings.

A total non sequitur, but one of my co-workers just totally burned me. He was talking about a conversation yesterday and referred to it and I said, "Well, I guess I was not listening to you because I don't remember that." He said, "Well, Jodi, it seems you don't listen a lot, but you sure do chip in all the time!"

So true, so true. I am an ass.

Dear Starbucks,

Okay, so you got me in the door for your limited offering of the Peppermint Mocha. I realize that I often have expectations for how the world should operate that are just way too lofty. I sort of expect that if I venture into a Starbucks, any Starbucks, I'll get the same quality service and drinks. Boy, am I wrong!

Why is it that only about 50% of the various stores I've been to for the aforementioned beverage (5-6 total) bother to put on the red sprinkles? Also, if your perky barista is going to "get something started" for me before I get up to the register, why is it that the six people in line behind me get served before I do???

I will note that one of your locations in Los Feliz has the friendliest staff, the best service, and the most consistency with the drink-making. I will try to take most of my business there.

I just don't think I'd experience these same frustrations at Dunkin' Donuts. Oops, there I go again with my assumptions. You'd think I'd learn by now.

Return of the Ten Questions

Yay Ren!!!

It’s the return of TEN QUESTIONS FOR JODI!

This time though, we have structure and rules!!! This time it’s called “Either/Or” and the only rule is that you have to pick one. You can’t say NEITHER but you can qualify your answer. You COULD say both if you felt like it though.

1. Vanilla or Chocolate?
The first question is the easiest!
Chocolate!!!

2. Left or Right?
Okay, this one is a bit tougher. I immediately thought hand dominance, but then thought it could be related more to politics, etc. Hmmm...
Left

3. Batman or Superman?
Batman

4. Sun or Rain?
Sun, sun, sun!
I'm just not a fan of rain, or any precipitation come to think of it.

5. Cold or Hot?
Again, this is a tough one. It depends, but I can't say that.
Hot

6. Tea or Coffee?
Generally, I prefer tea, but have been on a real coffee kick lately. However, I can not make coffee for myself, so if I'm left to my own devices, there is only one answer.
Tea

7. Hogwarts or Durmstrang?
Hogwarts

8. Fire or Ice?
Fire
I've been known to have a little pyro in me.

9. Monkeys or Dogs?
Dogs...I mean...BOTH...you did say I could say both!

10. Comfort or Style?
Comfort

They Don't Look Like Presbyterians To Me

We had a free holiday lunch at work today. I guess dry turkey and flavorless mashed potatoes are okay when they are free. I guess.

I've been trying to kick my haiku obsession, but it just isn't working. I wrote several for/about various co-workers today. I have a problem.

My title obviously has nothing to do with this entry. It just happens to be one of my favorite quotes from The Muppet Movie, which was excellent as a midnight movie last Friday, by the way.

I made an ass of myself today. It provided some humor for a few co-workers. I'm sorry, but if someone steps out of an elevator with a big wreath, complete with packages, on their head, I think that warrants an outloud "wow!"

I obviously don't have much to say.

I guess I'll just go bowling.

For Dianna

I was going to move on from this haiku silliness, but I had another request. From my sister, so I can't refuse.

Who is Dianna?
Sister, friend, mother and wife
I miss her a lot

She is manic now
Awake all night, sleeps all day
May she find peace soon

Haiku Requests (from Jill)

Jill M. is bubbly
She always has a smile on
She brightens my day

Jill can be a dork
That is why we get along
We both love pumplets

Jill dresses like Stacie
Down to the same coat and shoes
And shirt and scarf too

More of the 5-7-5 Stuff

His name is Randy
He is Earl's younger brother
He makes me giggle.

Okay, this is what my blog is devolving to. Haikus. I got on roll and was cranking them out last night. Eric joined in and it was almost a competition. The above one is a variation of the one I shouted out from bed...I just couldn't stop (I can't remember the original).

Cosette is our dog
She has a wart on her snout
She is getting old.

Little Guy is soft
He likes to snuggle with me
He needs a diaper.

See? I think perhaps my brain is so tired and full that I can only blurt out thoughts in these 17 syllable poems. Not sure they are worthy enough to be called "poetry" though. Oh no, here comes one two more!

It is time for lunch
I don't want to socialize
I wish I could nap.

Aaron in Thailand
Happy Father's Day to you
And little Rayluk

My car will not start
It has become a beater
I want to drown it

Seventeen Syllables

Peppermint mocha
How I do love you so much
Hot sweet beverage

Eric was inspired to make one up too:

Rusty is a dog
He is soft, brown and fluffy
He has his own blog

Okay, so his is much better than mine. Oh well. I'll keep working on it.

Soccer Moms We Aren't

My buddy Ren invited me to go to a party with another friend of ours tonight. It was a demonstration type parties where everyone can buy something at the end of the evening. This one involved food, so we got to taste a variety of different soups, dips, sauces, and desserts. It was pretty fun, especially with a couple of glasses of wine.

As the festivities progressed, there was this odd feeling I started having (no, not from the wine...that's a good feeling!). I shared some glances with Ren and Ms. S, knowing they were experiencing some of the same thoughts. This happened more frequently after a couple of guests arrived late.

Most of the women at the get-together seemed to be in their mid-30's to early-40's, near as we could tell. The event location was in a fairly new development 20-some miles north of L.A., where the houses on every precious street are one of three models. The competition with the Christmas lights has clearly begun, but that is another topic.

Anyway, I think in many ways, the three of us city girls lead quite different lives than most of the women we met. I'm not saying we're better and I'm not judging, but I'm just observing. For one thing, we all have full-time jobs. We're married or engaged, but none of us have children. Two out of the three of us enjoy and have a talent for cooking.

There was something "Stepford" about a few of the other women and their practically identical houses, their inability to cook a meal for their children, and their involvement with The Girl Scouts. Everyone was very nice and a few were quite funny. It was fun to share some laughs, but I am still struck by how different are the lives we lead.

I almost felt like a kid at a party my Mom was hosting. I can't put my finger on it, but I'm wondering if the other women are more mature and if we are childish. Or are they "older" for their age and are we are "younger?" I don't know and I guess it doesn't really matter. I just found it interesting.

Thirteen hours of sleep is a good thing. I went straight to bed when I got home from work yesterday and I just got up a bit ago.

I do have a long, odd day ahead of me.

10:00 am: I'm going to a meeting for a film festival I'm involved with promoting.

1:00 pm: Caryn's funeral.

6:00 pm: Toluca Lake Holiday Open House. This is an annual tradition. Rusty will get his photo taken with Santa, once again.

11:55 pm: Midnight screening of The Muppet Movie at the NuArt Theatre! Good times!

Overwhelmed

That's me today.

Work is stressful.
Low staff.
Asshats making bad decisions.
Too much paperwork.

I'm going to a funeral tomorrow.
A funeral for a woman only two years older than me.
I have no clue what to wear.

It's December already.
The "holiday season" is now in full swing.
I'm not in the mood.
I don't want to hear your damn jingly bells.
And I'd rather not listen to Christmas tunes on the office radio.

I'm tired and cranky.
I need a nap.
I'll settle for some caffeine. A peppermint mocha may be the pick-me-up I need.

Off to the coffee bar, I suppose.

It's Time To Make The Donuts

Dear Dunkin' Donuts,

Please open at least one store in the Los Angeles area. Preferably in Hollywood or the east San Fernando Valley, but hey, anywhere would be fine. It doesn't make much sense to me, especially considering how prevalent Baskin-Robbins and Togo's are in the region. All three are under the same brand!

Sure, Starbucks may be a bit intimidating. Yes, we have them on practically every street corner and even multiple locations in single shopping centers. However, in light of lean economic times and factoring in the vast number of unemployed entertainment folks that live in L.A., I personally think you'd do a fine business. Good coffee for a low price.

I'm sure my letter will be treated like others before mine and I'll just be informed that you have no plans for expansion into the Southern California market. I'll just have to enjoy my fill during my brief time here on the East Coast.

P.S. Please don't tell me to just buy your coffee and make it at home. I can't make a good pot of coffee to save my life, even if I use your brand.

Don't You Forget About Me

We went to Eric's 20th high school reunion last night. It was a lot more fun than I think either of us anticipated. It did require a few snarky text messages to Ren, but overall I did have a good time. Eric was happy to reconnect with some old friends, including one who lives about 10 minutes from us in L.A. The fact that we stayed out with some old friends until about 3 this morning is a pretty good indicator of how the evening progressed.

Eric was definitely one of the youngest looking guys at his reunion. The fact that he has a full head of hair probably helps in that department. Not to mention the dye job. Oops, did I just mention that? I was amazed by the range of women. Some looked just fine. Others, primarily because of hairstyles and style of dress, seemed far older than 37-38. And then there were the ones who were just trying too damn hard to look much, much younger than we all knew they were. Some of them were downright scary.

I still have a few years before a 20th reunion, but it got me thinking about it and whether or not I would even go. I moved around so much and went to so many different schools that I certainly won't have the experience of knowing anyone since kindergarden or even 10th grade! I went to two high schools in two different states, so was only with my graduating class for 11th and 12th grade. Not only do I have the expectation that I won't really be remembered, I fear I won't remember people. I've been contacted by a classmate through Classmates recently and I honestly can't remember him or how we knew each other. I sent a nice (I hope) email to ask him how we knew each other.

Will you recognize me? Call my name or walk on by?

No Day But Today

Last night we ended up catching a late movie after stuffing ourselves at the Thanksgiving table. I really wanted to see Rent, as I'm a huge fan of the musical. I was a little nervous, wondering if it would hold up as a film and 10 years after the play started its run. I have to say that I loved it. The show was adapted really well for the screen. I can't wait to get the DVD! It was really cool to see six of the eight original cast members in their roles since I never saw an original production of Rent, but I did get to see Daphne Rubin-Vega as Mimi in one of the two shows I saw in L.A. She was one of the two original performers not cast in the movie, but I was happy with the replacements.

On this day of giving thanks, I can think about so many things in my life to be thankful for. I complain a lot and wish for certain things to be better or different, but overall, I'm doing okay. I'm relatively healthy, I have a good husband, a stable job/profession, some wonderful friends, and three of the cutest, most lovable dogs you could ever imagine meeting.

Today I am especially grateful for Peppermint Tastykake Kandy Kakes. Not only do I love Kandy Kakes and peppermint, but these are covered in dark chocolate which is also a favorite of mine. Yum! We can get a few types of Tastykakes occasionally in the L.A. area, but we can never find quite the selection you can here in Philadelphia.

If anyone is reading this, Happy Whatever This Day Means To You!

Looks Like We Made It

We arrived safely in Philadelphia. It is very, very cold. 34 degrees (F) was the last I heard. Apparently it will feel like 20 degrees with the wind chill on Wednesday. I am curious to get a look around in daylight and see if there is any foliage left. I have a feeling most of it has fallen as I saw huge leaf piles on curbs as we drove into my mother-in-law's neighborhood.

No good celebrity sightings at LAX while waiting to board our plane. Sometimes it happens, sometimes it doesn't. I did however notice Mike, the Southwest Customer Service Supervisor who is often featured on Airline, at a desk in our terminal. I hesitated quite a bit, but then went up and told him I really enjoyed the show. He seemed really happy about that and was quite friendly. He said they just wrapped their third season and are trying to get picked up for a fourth.

On another subject, we got to truly test our new Slingbox, a device that allows us to watch anything on our Tivo through a high-speed internet connection. So, we just watched tonight's My Name is Earl, which was hilarious as usual. It seems that almost every episode has a supporting actor who I know. Tonight it was "the guy with the robot legs," as Randy called him. I knew Cameron Clapp shortly after his accident. I don't even know if he remembers me and that really isn't important. I remember him and am inspired by what he has accomplished.

This post is made up of such unrelated thoughts. My brain feels jumbled. I only had an hour so sleep very early Tuesday morning and then raced around to get to the airport. I did sleep some on the plane, but feel like I'd better get some more.

I'm Leaving On A Jet Plane

I do know when I'll be back though. On the 29th. Anyway, I'm almost ready. Just a few things to tidy up. I may even try to take a quick nap, then shower, and head out for the airport. I am a little nervous if I sleep now, I might not wake up in time. I can always sleep on the plane.

Next entry will most likely be posted from the Philly area.

Panic Now!

It's time. My stomach is in a knot and I can't concentrate on anything. I'm supposed to be doing work right now for a meeting in 20 minutes, but am laughing with co-workers. Laughing very hard. One of the engaged women is talking about how hard it is for her to find a wedding dress since her "crotch bone" sits high and she looks "manly" in certain fabrics. (Those were not actually her exact words).

Anyway, I'm making three lists of things "to do," "to pack," and "to buy" for my trip. 24 hours for now, my plane should be departing. ACK! So much to do, so much to do. If only there was a way to get out of work early, but it does not look like it will happen. Especially if I can't get a grip and focus.

It Really Is The Little Things Sometimes

I have a tiny cell phone. It's an older phone, but still one of the smallest you can get. My original one died, so instead of upgrading to a phone with a camera and more bells and whistles, I replaced it via eBay.

There was still one thing that I really wished this phone would do which was have the ability to have distinct ringtones for various callers. Well, tonight I discovered there is a way to do that!

Oh Ren, I do have Duran Duran as your ring tone. But only because it's "Late Bar," a song about "an all-night party." I'll come up with something better for you, I swear (since I can make ringtones out of any mp3).

Hot In The City

It was 85 degrees again today in Southern California. I, for one, am not complaining. I know there are some very pregnant people who are uncomfortable and others who just want it a bit cooler to get into the whole "holiday spirit" thing. I'm okay with it though. My system's in for a shock.

I will arrive in Philadelphia late Tuesday night, a night where the low is predicted to be 30 degrees! The high temperatures are predicted to be in the 40's until next Monday when they go up to the low 50's. I'll take the weather here, dry as it is, any day.

I'm All Lost In The Supermarket

I've had this song stuck in my head since hearing it on Nina Blackwood's New Wave Nation this morning. How apropos. Since my grocery store recently remodeled, I'm having a hard time finding things. What really confuses me is that they put the milk and the juices at opposite ends of the store. Often I run in just for milk and orange juice for Eric. Of course, though, I get distracted and end up forgetting to get one or the other.

We've been out of plastic storage bags for weeks now. I keep meaning to pick some up. If only I could located them in the supermarket.

Muggles At The Movies

We went to a 12:01 a.m. showing of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Eight of the screens at the multiplex we went to were sold out. Color me quite pleased...I really, really enjoyed it. Due to the size of the book, I knew some things would be sacrificed for the film. For the most part, I'm happy with how it was pared down. There is one exception, but I'll keep that to myself, as I have no intention of spoiling it for others who are planning to see it.

Noodle Muffin

Indie 103.1 has been playing a great song by Noodle Muffin. It's political. If you love GWB, you will probably hate it. I love it.

I do wonder though about this name. It reminds me an awful lot of a group a couple of friends are part of that is called Spaghetti Cake. (You can check out that website for an actual recipe).

It's That Time of Year

Yep, the holidays are approaching like a bullet train and I am in denial. I can not wrap my head around the fact that Thanksgiving is a week from today and I will be on the East Coast. I'm looking forward to having a week off of work and getting away, but a little sad that we'll be missing our traditional day at Disneyland next Thursday.

So much to be done before flying away next Tuesday. Shopping for some warm clothes, haircut, laundry, cleaning the house, and hopefully seeing Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire. I get pretty worked up before travelling (but don't quite prepare like Im_a_gaijin does) and probably won't sleep much before so I should be able to get everything finished.

I'm definitely not ready for the December holidays. But, I am looking forward to a few things we always do like the Toluca Lake Holiday Open House featuring the Magical Christmas Caroling Truck, Christmas eve in Solvang during the day, and the annual party at our neighbors' house that night.

Fa la la la la...blah, blah, blah...

Put The Puppy In The Bucket

We went to a free screening of the film The Comedians of Comedy at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood. It was hilarious! Funny nerds. You can't lose. There was a Q&A after the film with Patton Oswalt, Brian Posehn, Zach Galifianikis, Michael Blieden (director), and DJ Paul (producer). Michael Penn did the music and was brought up for the panel, but did not field any questions.

I did have one celebrity sighting at the screening (of someone not involved in the project). Alan Cumming was sitting in the same row where we sat. I really ought to start bringing Ren along to the Egyptian. First, Ron Perlman and now, Alan Cumming. Next thing you know, I'll see Alan Rickman there and if she is not with me, well...let's not go there.

Photo Blog

Since I'm enjoying participating in these daily photo challenges, I'm finding that photos are really overwhelming this blog. That's okay, but I'm going to try and separate that out to Jodi101 Snaps, my new photo blog.

Photo Hunt: A Globe of the Earth

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'A Globe of the Earth'

So, this globe doesn't light up, but it does "talk."
There was no way I could think to photograph that feature though.

Lens Day: Imagination

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'Imagination'

Don't Call Me A Zero, I'm Going To Be A Hero

I was thinking about a post by Ren regarding the fairly common occurrence of celebrity spotting in Los Angeles. What brought it to mind was the number of sightings I've had in the past couple of weeks, which is higher than normal for me.

• Matthew McConaughey-the U2 concert. We were waiting to give our tickets and he came by, in his leather pants, to ask the ticket-taker where to find his entrance.

• Ron Perlman aka Hellboy-Egyptian Theatre, Attack of the 50 Foot Reels screening. He starred in a film that was made by a kid. Apparently, he's a family friend.
  

• Brigitte Nielson-ArcLight Hollywood (best cinema in L.A.), a place where I regular see celebs.

• Paul Reubens-ArcLight. Okay, this one probably doesn't really count as I purchased a ticket to see him do a Q&A following a screening of Pee-wee's Big Adventure.
  

• Giovanni Ribisi-this morning on the sidewalk outside Cheetah's, the strip club that is very close to where I work. There's a film shoot that's been going on for a few days now, causing some problems with parking.

• Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York-charitable visit (I'm assuming) to my place of work today. I was able to view her from across a room. She's very pretty, tall, and thin.

Okay, Paul Reubens definitely does not count. I could go on and on with famous folks I've "seen" at screenings, Q&A's, Comic Con, signings, etc. But, I knew they'd be there and possibly attended the event because they were there. There are a few that do stand out since I got to meet them after the Q&A such as Kiefer Sutherland, Tom Skerritt, and Michael Chiklis.

I also have a bad habit of thinking someone is a celebrity and they aren't. One time, I had Eric park the car and follow a guy with me in Santa Monica because I was convinced it was Jerry Seinfeld. It so wasn't Jerry Seinfeld.

Doo Dah!

If you are like me and you enjoy the silly side of life (and live in the L.A. area), check out the Doo Dah Parade in Pasadena this coming Sunday, November 20th. I was just thinking about it as previous photo I posted ("chore") was taken at the parade in 2003. It is great fun. Just try to arrive a bit early to park and get a space on the sidewalk.

I'll be going for sure. If you're in the area let me know if you'd like to join me. Carpooling is the best bet. I'm also going to look in to possibly taking the Gold Line. The only downside to doing that is that I probably can't bring Rusty like I usually do.

Photo Tuesday: Chore

'Chore'

Moody Monday: Pure

'Pure'

My 13-year-old American Eskimo Dog, Cosette.

Holy Crap, I Went to Church!

For those who really know me, that's a big deal. It isn't what you are thinking though. I went to church for one of the only two or three reasons I can think of going and that was for a wedding. Some very good friends got married on Saturday in Oakland at a beautiful church overlooking a lake. The reception, which consisted of dancing and desserts catered by friends of the couple, was held at the same location.

As is typical for us, we got on the road much later than planned. We left L.A. at 2 p.m. in an attempt to make it Oakland for the 7 p.m. ceremony. Luckily, we hit very little traffic and were able to drive very fast most of the way. We parked, changed shoes, and made it to our seats by 6:55. The event didn't even get started until nearly 7:30, so we were more than fine. We knew quite a few the other guests, which made it even more fun.

The party was winding down around 11:30, so we got back in the car. Initially I thought we'd just drive through the night and arrive home around 5 or 6 a.m. The reality of the situation was that we were pretty beat, probably bottoming out from all of the sugar we had consumed. We stopped for some protein and regrouped. The best choice seemed to be getting some sleep and driving home in the morning.

There was a Motel 6 at the exit where we ate, so we got a few hours of sleep there. We made it back by 1 in the afternoon on Sunday, just in time to get some stuff done around the house. Eric had an obligation later in the day and I met up with some friends for coffee. I even managed to get some laundry done so I have clothes for work this week.

So, another whirlwind weekend. I'm sure I'll be struggling this week as I recover. There are a few photos on my flickr site, as usual.

Bark Mitzvah

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Happy 13th Birthday to my always and forever "Puppy Girl,"
"Pretty, Pretty Princess," "Lump of Puff," "Pig Dog,"
"Cosetta Stone," and "CoCo,"
aka
Cosette!

Macroday: Toys

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'Toys'

Cheburashka

Photo Hunt: Salt and Pepper Shakers...

For the Brookston Weekly Photo Scavenger Hunt:

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'Salt and Pepper Shakers in Their Natural Habitat'

Cafe Tu Tu Tango, Universal City, CA
November 11, 2005

Monkeys Love Video Games

The PSP was a hit as a birthday gift.

Happy Birthday, Monkey Boy.

Photo Friday: Worn

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'Worn'

Unrelated Thoughts

Best compliment I received this week (via Eric):
"Your wife is cool and she's a nerd!"

This site makes me laugh: Hello Cthulhu

Thursday Challenge: Fast

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'Fast'

Pig Races, L.A. County Fair
October 1, 2005

Lens Day: Confident

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'Confident'

My dog Rusty embodies confidence.
He wants to be everyone's friend (unless you're a horse) and will let you know it.

Election in Wonderland

Today was Election Day here in California. It's a non-traditional year for elections, but several states had special votes. The Govenator spent upwards of $250 million to try and pass a bunch of propositions crap that will hopefully fail. I really wish that money had gone into something like our pathetic schools.

Anyway, I always try to be a good citizen and vote. My polling place varies, but is usually in the auditorium of the elementary school up the street. It has also been in a nursing home lobby, a couple of churches (doesn't seem right somehow), and even a neighbor's garage. Today, however, it was in a hookah bar. The locale was recently a coffee shop, but has a new name--Amsterdam Cafe--and a giant hookah on its sign. It doesn't look like they were quite set up for smoking yet, but maybe that was to make room for the voting stations.

Only in California. And maybe Turkey or India.

Valentine Babies

There are a lot of birthdays in November that are important to me:

• My Mom-11/5
• Good friend Ren-11/9
• Best husband Eric-11/11
• Our American Eskimo dog Cosette-11/13
• My parents' German Shepard dog Rex-11/16

I forgot to send flowers to my Mom. She was so busy celebrating that it took me a couple of days to even reach her on the phone. Being in a different time zone doesn't help either. I'm plan to send her some flowers for Thanksgiving.

I got Ren's present tonight. Well, part of it. The part I didn't have yet. I can't say much as she occasionally checks in here!

On Eric's birthday, we'll may be heading up to the Bay Area for a wedding. Our friends are getting married in Oakland Saturday evening, so we plan to spend Friday and part of Saturday in San Francisco and/or Berkeley but some things are up in the air so we may not be able to make the drive. I hope the dogs get him something nice this year.

I can't believe Cosette will be 13 years old on Sunday. She's been with us since she was an 8 week old pup! I'd like to say she's not showing her age, but she is. Besides having cancer earlier this year (which she recovered from nicely), she seems to be losing her hearing a bit and she definitely naps a lot more. There's also a hideous wart growing on her snout. Luckily, I don't really see any physical problems with her in terms of mobility.

I haven't seen Rex for about a year and a half. I think he's turning 7. Being a bigger dog, he is having some hip problems. He is a dark, menacing-looking dog who is a big softy and sweetheart. I grew up with German Shepards as a young child and have fond memories of one named Heidi. I hope to see Rex (and his "sister" Jetta) again soon.

Even though her birthday was a few months ago, I still "owe" my buddy Cheryl who deserves to be celebrated as much as anyone else on my list. I have not forgotten and am going to surprise her one of these days with something very belated!

Photo Tuesday: Wound

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'Wound'

Mammoth Lakes, CA
July 2004

D'oh!

I totally forgot to mention one of the best things about Chicken Little is that the opening song in the film is a new Barenaked Ladies song called "One Little Slip." It's an Ed song too, which makes me very happy!

Jodi and Ed Robertson (Barenaked Ladies)
Tower Records on Sunset, March 1996

(It doesn't feel like it's been over 9 years since that day!)

Moody Monday: Wild

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'Wild'

Scrub Jay babies that nested under one of my bushes Spring of 2004.

Macro Day: Pink

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'Pink'

Rose in the garden at work.

The Sky is Falling!

We went to the midnight show of Chicken Little in Disney Digital 3D. It was cool. We decided to spend the bucks and go "VIP" at the El Capitan and I'm glad we did. I went in with fairly low expectations for the film itself, but it was entertaining. I laughed out loud several times. Besides that, the 3D was amazing and hopefully this new technology will take off.

Since 3D is having a bit of a popularity resurgence, it's not surprising that there is a 3D part on the new Duran Duran Live From London DVD that I picked up last night. Even cooler though, is the easter egg of the full anime video that played during their shows. (Enter '16' while on the main menu).

I finally got all of my photos from the past week's adventures uploaded to my flickr site. Go there to see my various Halloween costumes, lots of dog photos, farm photos, West Hollywood Carnaval photos, and of course U2. So much went on last week, it may just be easier to let the photos do the talking. I guess the only "events" I didn't get photos of were the two haunted yards we visited before going to West Hollywood on Halloween and the Paul Reubans Q&A at Pee Wee's Big Adventure.

I think I need a nap.

I'm Wide Awake

I'm not sleeping...that's for sure. I did manage to get caught up a bit on my sleep today though. It has been an incredibly fun, yet incredibly exhausting week. If only I didn't have that pesky full-time job/career thing in the mix, I'd have much more time for naps and catching up on my blog!

I have 143 unread emails in my Inbox (no, that does not include spam, I get rid of that before downloading my mail). I have 183 photos from Halloween and 300 from the U2 show to sort through. I'm hoping to get caught up on all of this by the end of the weekend.

In many ways, I'm hoping it's a low-key weekend. I don't have too many definite plans, just something really cool for Sunday night (thanks Ren!) Between now and then, I'm going to vote for not doing too much. We'll see though because Eric may have other things in mind.

I'm not sleeping...oh no, no, no...

Photo Friday: Warmth

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'Warmth'

Thursday Challenge: Creative

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'Creative'

Bono performing with U2 at The Staples Center
Los Angeles, CA
11/02/05

Lens Day: Time

Late on my post this week.

'Time'

This photo is a bit of a stretch for this theme, but I was amused by the specificity of the times for the Silly String ban.

Photo Tuesday: Yesterday

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'Yesterday (Halloween)'
One of my favorite costumes at the West Hollywood Carnaval.

Happy New Month

An extra hour this weekend was really nice, but just not enough. It's a good thing I can't go to my book club meeting tonight, because I have been unable to finish my assigned reading. Ack!

Two themes had overwhelming prominence in my life for the last few days...Halloween and dogs. Yes, shocking I know. Usually it's just dogs. I will eventually have photos posted on my flickr site, but I've had little time to download, choose, crop, upload and label. I'm in the process. I hope to be done by the end of the week.

I've been having a lot of fun since last Friday, but it is taking its toll. Fatigue is soaking my brain, squeezing my eyeballs (ew!), and finding a resting place in my bones. I'm doing battle with caffeine and chocolate until I make it to this Friday when I will sleep and sleep some more.

I'll leave you with a few tidbits from the past few days:

• I had 3 Halloween costumes this year--zombie Raggedy Ann, Michael Darling from Peter Pan and a ketchup bottle.
• Richard Blade is a really, really nice guy and a dog lover. His wife is very cool too.
• Don't wait until October 30th to go to the pumpkin farm. No more pumpkins.
• Our department kicked ass at work, once again, winning an award for our trick-or-treating booth (like we did last year!). We go all out and it pays off.
• I like wearing slippers to work.
• If you are not wearing a costume or are smoking a cigarette, don't bother coming up to my house on Halloween for candy.
• We learned that Rusty was a babe magnet at the West Hollywood Carnaval. Lots of half-naked women came up to pet him. Most were women anyway, near as we could tell.
• We are definitely going to see U2 tomorrow night, the night we can go. I was able to trade my tickets for pricier, better-in-many-ways seats. And I didn't have to pay the difference. I'm so excited as I've only seen them live once, back in Philadelphia in 1987 with my gay boyfriend.

So, look for those photos and hopefully an update to Rusty's blog soon too!

Happy Halloween!

It's been such a busy weekend, and now week ahead of me, I haven't really had time to post. I'm sitting here in my 2nd of 3 total costumes I'll be wearing before the holiday is gone. Much fun has been had and much more is to come.

Boo!

Moody Monday: Deserted

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'Deserted'

Photo Hunt: Stained Glass Window

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'Stained Glass Window'
Daisy Bedroom
Winchester Mystery House
San Jose, CA

Macroday: Halloween

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'Halloween'

Let The Fun Begin! (Or The Most Boring Post Ever)

How did it get to be Saturday morning already? The weekend is just beginning and I'm exhausted already! I normally work Monday through Thursday, four 10-hour days, with Fridays off. This week I took Monday off and worked Friday, due to some staffing issues. Same amount of hours worked, but different configuration and I'm tired.

I left work on Friday and went straight to Target to get the rest of my costume for Monday. We're doing Peter Pan and I'm John Darling, one of the kids. I already had glasses, an umbrella, and a hat, but needed to get a nightshirt and slippers. So it's done, it's easy and yeah, I get to wear pajamas to work!

I then headed over to see the first performance of Twisted, "a terrifyingly hilarious experience in suburban lawn art," by The Fright Gallery. Eric did some video work for the show, so I've seen the set evolve and some early rehearsal. It really has come together and the audience had a great time. If you are in the L.A. area, this is a fun, free thing you can do this weekend.

We ran home and had a quick bite to eat before heading over to CIA for this year's Puppet Slam, put on by the L.A. Guild of Puppetry. There were a lot of fun performances, including several by friends of ours.

Now I'm waiting to be able to put the laundry in the dryer so I can sleep. Tomorrow we have a picnic, which is a potluck, meaning we have to get stuff to take, followed by another evening at CIA for The Zombie Ball, a charity event benefiting the National Search Dog Foundation, a cause I can get behind. The night may end up being capped off with a fashionably late appearance at a Halloween party some friends are having.

Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour!

Looks like I'll be needing that extra hour of sleep since I'll be up early Sunday morning for the Walk for Paws with Rusty. I didn't even bother to do any fundraising since we just recently did a charity walk. I'm planning to get involved with part of the organization that the walk is benefiting, so I want to participate and just make a personal donation.

After the walk, we are heading up to Faulkner Farm (finally! I've been dying to go!) to visit the pumpkin patch, go on a hayride, etc. We are supposed to be getting a break from the cloudy, overcast weather this weekend. I'm hoping for good sunshine at the farm so I can take some nice photos.

On Monday, I'll lots of Halloween fun at work. Since I work with kids, we get to be really goofy. After work, we'll give out candy for a bit at home, then head to West Hollywood for the annual Halloween Carnaval. It is always a blast with outrageous costumes and people. We are possibly going in our ketchup and mustard bottle costumes and taking Rusty in his hot dog costume. The official website is discouraging pets though so we'll see.

The U2 tickets I have are for Tuesday night, but I'm desperately trying to trade them for Wednesday's show as we have tickets for another event on Tuesday night. I've posted a trade requrest to craig's list and a few other places, but no takers yet.

I apologize if you have read this far, hoping for some witty commentary or insightful information. I'm really boring myself and beginning to see double due to fatigue, so I'm going to call it a night.

Photo Friday: Delicate

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'Delicate'

Taughannock Falls Park near Ithaca, NY
May 2002

Thursday Challenge: Food

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'Food'

Breakfast @ Disneyland

Thanksgiving 2004

Do They Know It's Hallowe'en?

Best benefit song ever!

And on a totally unrelated note, why do people think it is okay to microwave fish at work? C'mon people! The whole office stinks and you can't use the microwave next without having your lunch taste like fish.

I complained and was told I could go eat my lunch elsewhere.

No problem.

And The Good News Is...

It looks like I'll be going to see U2 next week!!!

Lens Day: Blue

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'Blue'
Monterey Bay, California
September 2003

Photo Hunt

'Pumpkin or Gourd That is Not Orange'
Brookston Weekly Photo Scavenger Hunt

Photo Tuesday: Black and White

'Black and White'
Self-portrait
10/01/05

Dinner for 15

Ren sent me some great questions to answer today, so here goes:

1. Ok, say you were having a dinner party and you could invite any 5 (living and real) people in the world, who would you invite?
-Peter Gabriel
-Viggo Mortensen
-Kurt Vonnegut
-Eddie Izzard
-Julie Andrews

2. Now, you can add, 3, I'm adding 4, dead people (but don’t worry, they won’t be brain eating zombies).
-Jim Henson
-John Lennon
-Charles Darwin
-Leonardo da Vinci

3. And now please add 5 fictional people (or animals, if you prefer).
-Gandalf
-Ron Weasley
-Capt. Jack Sparrow - got to have at least one drunk!
-Atticus Finch
-Napoleon Dynamite

4. What would you serve for dinner (and you don’t have to cook so it can be whatever you want, fully catered) .
This is a very hard question for me as I am a somewhat picky eater AND a people pleaser. I can only imagine the stress. I wouldn't want to serve things guests don't like or are offended by. Yikes, the pressure! I think I'd have to go one of two routes. Either I'd just do a barbecue (and include some things like veggie kabobs and burgers) or have a Chinese food meal catered. There are lots of options with that cuisine and almost everyone likes it.

5. What would the centerpiece on the table be?
An unscented candle or candles.

6. What kind of music would you play?
Something mellow and not too loud so we could converse. Maybe something like Pat Metheny.

7. Say all your guests were shy, what would you say to spark a conversation?
That would be a big problem, as I can be shy at times myself. I don't think I'd have to worry about that, but say that I did, I'd ask if anyone has read any good books lately.

8. What would you serve for dessert?
Fruit tart, marshmallows to toast (if I went with the barbecue), and mint chocolate chip ice cream, just because I like it.

9. Let’s make it dinner AND a movie. What movie would you suggest?
Grizzly Man by Werner Herzog. It is a beautiful and compelling documentary. It is mostly observational without being too judgemental. I think it is a fascinating look at what happens when man crosses the line with nature. It would be great for creating ongoing discussion.

10. I see you need to get yukky candy for your trick or treaters, what do you think you’ll get that you won’t eat but won’t make kids hate you?
Something sour. Kids like that stuff and I don't.

In My Eyes

I saw a great product today on a site I like to check out about odd products in Japan. There is a device they sell that makes it much easier to put in eye drops. It's something I rarely do, but when I do, I have a lot of trouble. I end up with the drops all over my face.

I don't like eye stuff. Frankly, I can get really freaked out by eye stuff. I know I could never wear contacts and luckily to this point, my vision has remained really good. I detest going to an eye exam more than anything. That puff of air to the eye nearly kills me. I've had a couple of eye injuries that required medical attention. Not fun.

One was getting powdered laundry detergent in my eyes. I got it rinsed out of one completely before going to the E.R., but there was a little in the other. As the doctor explained, laundry soap dissolves protein and the eye is basically protein, so...yeah...ew...I only suffered superficial burns, luckily, but had to spend the rest of the weekend in the dark, not watching tv or reading or anything. Eric read the paper to me, which was very sweet and then I just slept a lot.

Another time, I suddenly started seeing tons of floaters and some flashes, indications of a possible retinal tear. I went to an eye doctor who did horrible, terrible things to me in order to figure out what was going on. I can barely think of the experience without getting nauseated. I've blocked most of it out, I think, but in the end everything was fine.

Eric made me watch this short documentary called Ocularist. It is fascinating that realistic prosthetic eyes can be made, but I really don't need to see the guy taking molds of eye sockets. Come on, I don't. I'd forgotten about the squishing-the eyes-with-the-thumbs scene in 28 Days Later until watching it again the other night. And yeah, there's that eye scene in Kill Bill 2.

I have a strong stomach for lots of things. I see all kinds of stuff at work that would bother many people. I've observed surgeries and even an autopsy. But, please, oh please keep me away from eyeballs. Ick!