Jason Mraz Weekend

My daughter is a very happy young lady right now.

Why?

Well, I won her tickets to see Jason Mraz from the same radio station that I won the Vanessa Carlton station.  I can't explain how I win tickets so easily...I guess I'm just lucky.

My daughter is completely obsessed with this guy, Mr. Mraz.  She had already purchased tickets to see him this Friday night at a concert, as well as concert tickets for the Filmore in San Francisco.  I'm going with her on Saturday night to see that show.  NOW she has tickets to see Jason Friday afternoon as well.  She will be able to get close and possibly talk to him Friday afternoon, and she is incredibly happy about that. 

Jason Mraz isn't what you call "main stream" but here is a video..  Chances are you have probably heard of the guy.  Lizzy wants to marry him. 

Here is another one.. 

I've been to a few of his concerts already, and he does put on a good show.  It will be fun.  I just hope Lizzy doesn't faint when she actually MEETS him. 

 

Easter Pictures

Here are some pictures of Nicholas looking for eggs in the backyard.  This year, the older children didn't participate, so Nicholas had a ball--no crying was involved.  This is good.  The money I put in the older kid's eggs kept them from complaining, so everyone was happy!! 

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I walked a mile 1/2 for a Subway sandwich

Yep.  I did.

  I walked a mile 1/2 for a Subway sandwich for  no particular reason-just because I could.  I was toying with the idea about going, and of course thought of about 10 excuses why I shouldn't.  One excuse was because I was wearing my boots today--not the most comfortable of walking shoes.  But I took the walk anyway.  I needed to get away from this desk at work, and this computer for awhile, while the weather was still nice. 

It was a nice walk.  I need to do this more often.  Sitting in front of this computer all day is just going to make me fat. 

It was a pretty uneventful walk.  I was not asked once for "spare change" downtown.  Normally, when I do take the walk, I am bombarded for spare change, but not today.  I was a nice surprise.  There was this one young woman sitting there in the middle of the sidewalk with her cat, reading a book.  She had a sign that read something like this:  Spare change please.  I need to buy cat food.  This girl was clean and college aged.  The animal shelters feed animals of the homeless free of charge.  I guess she doesn't know that. 

On my way back to work, there was a young guy playing a flute in the park.  He was playing "Waltzing Matilda."  Remember that song?  I remember singing that in school, and playing it on my recorder.  Seeing him play the flute, in the park, on the green grass, and the green leafed trees and cherry blossom trees surrounding him was quite a scene.  It almost inspired me to dance over the bridge. I bet you no one would bat an eyelash. I'm sure the bunch of people camping out in the park would join me.  I am in a bit of a strange mood today.  Can you tell? 

Easter has come and gone..  I have Easter pictures, but for some reason, AOL won't let me post them today.  Easter was nice.  I got a call from cousin "Coelho" from the Azores, and it is always nice to hear from him.  We spoke of our Easter spent years ago--the Easter where he was officially nicknamed, "Coelho."  He didn't remember the Easter basket at the door, but he does remember the water balloons we threw at eachother.  I honestly didn't remember that...  Oh well. 

Cousin Tania, has come and gone too.  She left early Thursday morning, and finally got home today.  Poor girl...what a trip.  It was sad to see her go, but she will be back in the summer.  I got a little teary eyed on Wednesday night when I caught myself leaving the porch light on, and unlatching the top lock--suddenly I realized that Tania wouldn't be coming back that night. 

It's Friday.. HURRAH!!  I have nothing planned really for the weekend, but it's a 3 day weekend for me.  Cesar Chavez day is Monday--only thing is, Andrew has school, so I have to find something to do all morning until he gets out.  Beach sounds good--hopefully this good weather will hold and it won't rain. 

I have weeds to pull.  Oh my Gosh...  My neighbor Mrs. Stuart probably shudders each time she sees those ugly weeds slowing growing towards her perfect shrubberies..  Must get to that.

Have a great weekend everyone!! 

 

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Party, Party, We Like To Party Part II

Here are photos from my nephew's party... 

Proud Grandma with two of her nephews..

Mom with Tania & Lizzy

Birthday boy, Brett

Andrew, Liz, Tara & Brett...  Sure they are older, keeping it cool. 

Nicholas already has his piece picked out.. 

Party, Party...We Like to Party

Here are a few pictures to share with you from the many birthdays this month...  I've tried to do it previously, but AOL won't let me...  Hopefully it will work! 

Nicholas, Lizzy & Tania

Uncle Eddy showing Andrew how to play poker.

Rich, hanging out with the girls- Tania, and my nieces, Bonnie & Amanda

My brother and his wife, Karen.

Tania & Ruben--so cute.

Blowing out the candles..  To the right is my Oreo pudding! 

Love Oreos?

Okay...  I'm home on a mini vacation, and I'm just enjoying my time away from work..  Here is a recipe that you may like to make.  If you are on a diet, you may want to skip it because it's very, very good.  I got this recipe from my cousin's wife, Cidalia who graciously sent it to me a few years ago.  It's really good--especially if you like Oreos!!!

Oreo Pudding

Ingredients:

 

2 small pkgs of Jello -O instant vanilla pudding

1 med. container of Cool Whip

48 crushed Oreo cookies (a package)

1 Philadelphia cream cheese (bar)

4 cups of milk  (if you used 1% like I did-only add like 3 1/2 or it will be a little too thin)

1 tablespoon of butter (or margerine)

3 tablespoons of powdered sugar. 

 

In a bowl beat the 2 puddings with the 4 cups of milk.  Once well mixed, add the Philadelphia cream cheese, butter, and sugar.  Beat until smooth and the add the Cool Whip.  Beat again until the mixture is thick and smooth. 

 

In a Pyrex, pour about 1/2 of the batter.  Over the batter, spread the crushed Oreo cookies (should be a thick layer of cookies)  Finally, spread the remainder of the batter over the cookie.  Be careful to spoon the batter over it so the cookie doesn't mix in with the batter. 

 

Refridgerate.  The next day, decorate with just the actual Oreo cookie (the half with no cream).  The colder it is, the better it will taste!

 

See, easy!  It's almost like a cookie lasagna! 

 

 

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Julie Causes A Scene At McDonalds...

My daughter has very colorful friends.  One happens to like dying her hair pink, pierced nose, and lots of dark makeup.  Of course all of that can bring on attention to yourself, sure.  Well this friend is cute, and my daughter also gets second looks from the the male species.  I guess that is natural, but sometimes, some "looks' are totally unacceptable.  They fall in the category of "rude, sleazy and disrespectful." 

Any ways, Saturday Lizzy's friend was with us, and Lizzy was driving the family van to do some errands with me and Nicholas.  Nicholas was being pretty cranky that day, and wanted apple juice at McDonalds.  The girls were hungry, so I took them all to the McDonalds nearest to us. 

I didn't notice right away, but there was a guy sitting in the back looking at Lizzy and her friend up and down in a suggestive matter.  I told them to not look his way.  I looked back and saw him sitting there at one of the tables with a small little child.  He was big, and looked as if he was in his 30's.  Lovely. 

Because Nicholas was being a little loud and cranky, I sat in a table facing the girls.  That was a mistake.  I should have sat with them. 

Any way, my back was facing the guy, and I didn't really see what was taking place, but apparently, the girls felt his stare from across the room.  Lizzy went to get more coke and apparently he was also making noise to perhaps get her attention?  I looked back once, and noticed that he was chatting with one of the workers, who I presume was his wife or girlfriend?  I don't know. 

Well, suddenly I heard a loud clicking sound coming from behind.  I turn around, to see this guy STARING at my daughter, and clicking this little black box above his head, walking towards the exit.  I am not exaggerating, it looked as if he wanted to eat her or something.  All the while, this guy is with his wife/girlfriend and little daughter?!  He was going out of his way to make noise with his "clicker" to get my daughter's attention and stare down at her and herfriend.  I know that IF I was sitting with them, he probably wouldn't have done it. 

I don't know how to explain how mad I felt.  Mother instincts went in full force at that point.  I jumped off my seat and confronted him.

"I don't appreciate you clicking your camera at my daughter!"

Yep, I surprised him.  He of course looked at me like I was crazy and was trying to explain that it wasn't a camera.

"That is no excuse for looking at my daughter that way!  Have some respect!"

I didn't even bother to see the reaction on his wife's face, and I know I caused a scene, but I was sooooo pissed.  I was still shaking by the time I went back to my chair.  I just hope the idiot thinks twice before trying to pull another one of those.  Probably not.  There are so many men out there that treat women like merda--if you know what I mean.  He probably didn't think nothing of it.  I just wonder what he would do, years down the line, if someone did the same to his daughter. 

Of course, after all this happened, Nicholas  decided he didn't want his milk shake afterall and wanted orange juice.  No, he didn't want the apple juice he originally wanted either. I had to go back to the cashier, and surprisingly the lady behind the register was very happy to see me.  I guess the workers were happy I said something to the guy?  I don't know.  They were very nice to me, but my nerves were still shaky.  It kind of ruined the rest of my day--I hate it when a--holes do that.  I hope his day was just as crappy; 

Vanessa Carlton Night

I'm playing catch up now... 

Last Thursday night we went to see Vanessa Carlton with the tickets I won on the radio.  It was nice.

It was at a restaurant downtown San Jose, in a conference looking room above the restaurant, and it was pretty packed.  We did find a row of four chairs that was semi close to the stage where she performed.  We got to sit behind the "snooty" family.  Oh, man, I wish I had a picture of them.  Alas, wouldn't you know my battery was flashing red on my camera and I only got one picture of Vanessa!  The pictures you see are from the radio's web site.  I'm still waiting for them to post all the pictures---I don't see ours yet!

We did take a picture with Vanessa-all 4 of us in matching outfits of brown and leopard print.  Vanessa was very sweet, and said:

"I like what's going on with your color theme." 

Ruben and Tania were both wearing brown, and Lizzy and me were wearing leopard print.  We all looked like we belonged in a JCPenny catalogue.  My mom would have been proud.

Vanessa was very sweet, and so TINY!  Why do artists/celebrities all look so tiny in person?  It's weird.  She did a good show, despite a cold that the radio DJ's announced beforehand.  They did an interview before the show, and I think Vanessa was a little annoyed by them.  Lizzy was in agreement. 

Vanessa sang with only the keyboard---she really impressed us--she has a very powerful voice.  Look at her hands!!  She plays that keyboard like nobody's business!

Okay, let me tell you about the snooty people we got to sit behind.

We take our seats, and I say something like this:

"Well, I think these are best we are going to get."

Immediately, the guy (who I assume is the father) turns to the young girl next to him and says:

"Do you think you can sit up a little higher sweetie, so the lady behind you can't see."

Very funny.  I know he was trying to be funny, but it came off sounding a little rude.  No one laughed.  The entire time we were there, this guy is looking back at the bar, holding his drink.  So this guy(ex-husband) is sitting there at the end, his daughter is sitting in the middle of with who I presume to be her mother (ex-wife).  The mother is the blonde lady holding her martini, playing with the green olives in her glass.  She never put her glass down to clap--she would do that silent clap between her hand and the glass.  She had  layers of makeup on with very expensive/designer look clothes and jewelry. 

"Well, all the appetizers are gone.  I guess that's what happens when it's free."  Ex-wife exclaimed.  I didn't see either one of them eat--they only drank their drinks.  Of course we were eating cheese and stuffed mushrooms behind them.  They must of thought we were too poor to afford to buy a meal downstairs or something.

Next to her was who we presume was her young boyfriend.  He was at least 15 or more years younger, cute and dark, and always leaning towards her, looking as though he wanted to be part of the conversation between her and the ex-husband-kind of a lost puppy trying to get some attention.  Lizzy picked that up right away.  I never saw the girl's face.  My daughter said that she was probably uncomfortable sitting in between the parents and the boyfriend who was probably not much older than herself.  After Vanessa performed, they left abruptly, and didn't bother to get their picture taken.  They probably had better, and high society stuff to do later. 

A Meme to do while the green beans boil...

This Meme is from Dawn..  I started to do this while I was boiling my green beans, and I completely forgot about finishing this Meme..  I got home from dinner at my mom's, to find it still on my screen!  Oops. 

             

Your best friend tells you she is pregnant. What is your reaction? Hmm..  I would be very surprised...  My best friend is single, and is more than content with her furry children already.  

When is the last time you wanted to punch someone in their face?  Saturday.   I took my daughter and her friend to the McDonalds with Nicholas.  There was a man there that was staring at my daughter and her friend a little too much, and as I mom, I felt very threatened.  I will write about this later.  It was very upsetting, and never so intense.  I'm not the kind of person who likes to createa scene, but this guy really got me--and my motherly instincts to protect her young came out very quickly. 

What is the last thing you spent money on? The Bee Movie.  We watched it tonight in the van on the way and the way back to my mom's.  It was quite entertaining to listen to.  (I sat in the front, I couldn't see any of it.) 

Do you think you gained or lost weight this past month?  Hmm...  I'm PMSing..I know I've gained something.

Crunchy or Puffy Cheetos? Neither.  They make my fingers orange as well as my teeth.  Not a pretty picture.  I like puffy, but I try to stay away from them. 

Congratulations! You just had a son. What's his name? Another one?  Lovely.  Looks like husband was not snipped properly.  Poor dear needs to go under the knife again.  If I were to have another son, his name would be "Joe", after my dad.   Joseph is my youngest middle name.

Congratulations! You just had a daughter. What's her name? Ohh..  A girl!  Aww..  I like the name Kate, or Audrianne.

What are you craving right now? Nothing, I just got home from a big dinner...although that chocolate bunny up in the kitchen is calling my name at the moment.. 

What was the last thing you cried about? During mass today at church.  You are going to think I'm so awful...  I wasn't crying, but I was trying to keep myself from laughing.  I cried.  My daughter wiped my tear off my nose.   Let's just say, my daughter and I saw something, and it was a moment you just had to be "there" to understand.

When you buy something and your change is 2 cents, do you keep it or tell the cashier to keep it?  It depends.  If there is a tray for pennies, I'll leave it.  Otherwise I take it.  I remember from working in retail,that pennies do count. 

What color is your tissue box? What tissue box? 

Do you have a ceiling fan in your room, and if so, is there dust on that fan? Yes, I have a ceiling fan in my room, and I think there is some dust on it. 

Scariest thing you've experienced in the last year? Oh gosh...  I've been pretty lucky.  May be not knowing where my kid was--that was scary.

Do you wear a name tag at work? No.

Have you ever had a garage sale? Yes, but I despise them.

What color is your iPod? I don't have one.

What is the last alcoholic beverage you had? A glass of white wine at mother's. 

Are you happy right now?  Yeppers :).

Who came over last? Ruben coming over with Tania.  They went with us to mom's house. 

Do you drink beer? Hardly never.

Have your brothers or sisters ever told you that you were adopted?  Ha...ha..  No, but I remember my brother saying that to my sister.  (She is the middle child).   There is a 10 year gap between my brother and I, so he pretty much never teased me. 

What is your favorite key on your key chain? The key to my car.

What was the last movie you watched at home? Watched:  Just Married, heard:  Bee Movie.

What is in your pocket? No pockets in my jammies.

Where do you hurt? My tummy--too much chocolate bunnies.

Has someone ever made you a Build-A-Bear? No, never really had the desire to tell you the truth. 

What's something fun you did today? Watching Nick looking for eggs.

What is your favorite aisle at Wal-Mart? I don't shop at one, because I don't have one near my home. 

When is your birthday? Sometime in April...  :)

Is there anything hanging from your rear view mirror? Yes.  The silk flower lei that my son Andrew got when he first started Jr. High, and a little stuffed Precious Moments bunny. 

What kind of milk do you drink? I only buy 1 1/2.

What is something you need to go shopping for? I went to the grocery store recently, and I forgot a lot of items.  I hate that.  I made enchiladas and then realized I had no olives or salsa.  :( 

This is the cute puppy that the puppy shower was thrown for.  His name is Barkley.  His coat is so soft and furry--he looks like a little bear cub. 

Another view of the puppy shower....  Check out the decals on the windows..they went all out.  If you look in the middle of the table you'll see the big blinky the filled up with doggie biscuits.  He loved it!

Happy Easter/Feliz Pascoa

I've been SOO busy since Thursday...  I haven't had time to sit down and put in an entry.  I will have to play catch up later..  I have so many entries to read--but I haven't had the chance to get them!  Forgive me.

The Easter Bunny has already made the delivery and the baskets are waiting outside in the backyard.  The kids don't know yet.

I'm frying linguica, and I have hash browns on the stove.  I'll be making eggs and waffles too with strawberries..  I've been a busy bunny. 

Later we are going to church at noon, and then I have some dishes to make to take to my mom's house for Easter dinner.  Busy, busy, busy!! 

I want to wish you all a very blessed Easter Day-whether you celebrate Easter or not--have a good day--bunny hugs and kisses to all my Jland friends!!

Thanks Lisa Jo for the above tag--extra hugs for you my friend! 

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Sweater Day

Hello!  Zip up your favorite sweater, and throw on those blue sneakers!  It's National Sweater Day!!! 

"MISTER ROGERS
March 20 is ''Sweater Day'' — a day to celebrate what would have been the 80th birthday of Fred Rogers, the children's television host known for his oodles of cardigans. You may decide to fish out your favorite knit (supporters are encouraged to wear a knit in his honor), but EW.com decided to commemorate the guy by picking our 20 favorite sweaters in entertainment — starting with, naturally, those of Mister Rogers himself."

The one and only, Mr. Rogers.  I used to love watching this guy on T.V.  Even I knew it was a bit corny, but I was always glued to the T.V. when this show was on.  His calm and reassuring  voice made me feel very secure.  Happy Birthday Mr. Rogers!!

Strangely enough, Mr. Rogers came up in conversation earlier this week at the Puppy Shower we had at the old piece of crap building I work in.  I don't know how he came up in conversation, but you know, I guess ANYTHING can be expected at a puppy shower.  It was actually pretty fun.  The office was decorated really cute with balloons and paw prints.  It was actually more fun than the wedding shower we had the week previous. 

This is one picture of the shower.  I have more pictures I tried downloading last night, but AOL would not let me.  Hopefully I will have more luck tomorrow.  This is boss man's desk.  I hope boss man doesn't mind the biscuit crumbs under his desk. 

The puppy got a lot of toys and doggie biscuits, and a cake.  His mom helped her blow out the candles.  I will share more pictures later-although I can't share them all--due to I haven't asked permission to post all the pictures of my co-workers.  Although there is a very slight change clients will see this--but you never know.  If you knew who the "mom" was, and who she was married to (a very important person in our county goverment system) you would understand. 

I am happy to report that I did not spill any beverage on myself during the party.  Why?  Well, I didn't drink anything, that is why.  I ate my pizza dry.  I wasn't going to risk it.  The cute puppy did slobber on my pant leg, but that is okay.    A co-worker's baby once threw up milk formula all over me once--the puppy slobber was nothing in comparison. 

I can't believe it's almost Easter!  We are celebrating Easter at my mom's house, and I have stuff to bake and bring, plus Easter baskets...oh gosh--I really have to start on that as well.  I'm making my cousin Tania her first Easter basket in America.  She is of course having a good time with boyfriend/fiance.  She'll be leaving next week Thursday and she is already feeling bummed.  Oh well--she'll be back for the summer.  

 Easter/Spring is my favorite time of year.  It also marks the year I got my nickname "Coelha" many moons ago...  I like being the Easter Bunny!

 

Translation:  Don't start the week sad.  Someone is waiting for your smile.

Tonight Lizzy and I, Tania and Ruben will be seeing our little private concert with Vanessa Carlton.  It should be fun.  I will definately be taking my camera because I know we will be able to meet her and take pictures with her.  It will be interesting.  IF AOL cooperates, I will post them here later.

It's Thankful Thursday too!  Things I'm Thankful for...

1.  My family

2.  My home

3.  Pet Smart---really helped find some cute puppy toys

4.  Winning tickets--I wanted to do something fun/different with cousin while she was here--I won them at a good time!

5.  Easter!

6.  My faith!  

 

 

 

 

Luck of the Irish

As far as I know, I don't have a smidgen of Irish in me.  But on St. Patrick's Day, they say everyone is Irish, right?

I got some Irish luck this afternoon.  Perhaps it was because I was wearing my green sweater, and Nicholas was also dressed in green from head to toe.  Or, may be it was the wail of the bag pipes that were playing in front of the Irish pub we passed on our way through town.  Who knows.. 

On the way home this afternoon, I turned on the radio, and Nicholas asked to hear the "picture away song."  I don't remember the title of it off hand, but it's the duet with Sheryl Crowe and Kid Rock.  Andrew recorded it on a CD for me along with some other songs, and Nicholas just adores that CD.  Of course, I didn't have it with me.  After trying to explain to Nick that it was the radio playing, not the CD, low and behold, the "picture away song" does come on.  Nicholas is thrilled, and sings along with it.  It's pretty cute actually.  I just have to get it recorded.  His impression of Kid Rock singing "drink you away..drink you away.."  it pretty entertaining.   

 

Anyway, we are driving along, and the song ends, and Nicholas thinking I did have the CD on asks for "You're Beautiful" song-the one sung by James Blunt.  I try to explain to him again that it was the radio.  Then the announcer lady comes on and announces she was giving out free concert/dinner tickets, and she was looking for the 13th caller.  I thought to myself, "wow, wouldn't it be nice if I won tickets..  I could take Lizzy and Tania and her boyfriend along.."  I called, it was busy of course..  Called again, busy...  Called again..and whoa, I was caller 13!  YAY! 

Thursday night I have tickets for four to see Vanessa Carlton in a private concert at a restaurant.  I'm taking Lizzy, Tania & her boyfriend.  I would ask hubby, but he really isn't interested in those get togethers.  I forced him to the last 80's "prom" the radio station threw, and I promised I wouldn't force him through another geeky event.  I do think it will be fun.  I'm not a huge fan, but I think she is pretty talented, and I do think Tania and Lizzy will enjoy it. 

After I won the tickets, guess what song came up next?  Yep, you guessed it, "You're Beautiful" a la James Blunt--the edited version-he was "flying high."  Nicholas was thrilled.  I drove an extra five blocks up the street so he could sing to the very end of the song. 

I'm kicking myself right now for not remembering to buy myself a lottery ticket! 

 

Happy St. Patricks Day

Are you wearing green? 

I had a whirlwind of a weekend, and I'm sitting here feeling a little cheated that today is Monday already.  Oh well. 

Friday our cousin Tania arrived from her 30 hour adventure that started in Lisbon, then London, and Toronto, finally ending in San Francisco.  Poor girl's eyes were so blood shot when she finally arrived in California.  Oh well, at least her romance is letting her see the world.  Since she has arrived, Nicholas has been following her non-stop around the house, and he is just so pre-occupied that she will be leaving soon.  He is just head over heels in love with her, and even has the poor girl sleeping in his bed at night.  Her boyfriend should worry...ha ha ha.. 

Saturday her boyfriend, threw a surprise birthday party for her, and Lizzy and I kept her occupied and away from him most of the afternoon.  We stopped at Chili's and then went to see a movie.  Lizzy drove.  She is getting better, but needs work in controlling the wheel.  We saw the movie, Penelope---the movie about the girl cursed with the pig's face?  I recommend it.  It was very cute. 

Sunday there was another birthday party for my nephew who just turned 18.  Damn..the years are just flying by.  My other nephew has a full beard.  Damn, I feel old. 

It was a bittersweet week.  I discovered that a childhood friend who used to live on my street died in her sleep.  She would have be 43 on her birthday, March 12.  My mom's god-son also past away from complications in surgery on Thursday..he was only 56.  Very, very sad, and so sudden-unbelievable. 

I had some sangria this weekend, and boy..  All I can say is that stuff really gets to me.  My face turned a little too red, and warm.  I don't drink, and when I do, I can only drink a few glasses until I feel silly.  I guess, that is a good thing, but remind me not not take pictures when I'm a little too happy.  We celebratedSt. Pat's Day a little early.  I'll post some later today. 

I have a puppy shower to attend tomorrow at work.  I still haven't shopped for it.  Will need to do that tomorrow without Nicholas.  Nicholas is totally fascinated with those rubber, squeaky doggy toys.  It took me a good 10 minutes to tear him away from the hundreds and hundreds of doggie toys at Petco the last time I was there.  If the puppy makes an appearance, which I'm sure he will, I'll try and take a photo.  He IS a very cute puppy--he looks like a little bear cub actually. 

Have a great St. Patrick's Day, and drive safely if you out on the road tonight.

Lots of Going Ons At the Ghetto

I can't believe it's Thursday already..  What a busy week it has been!

 

Here at the "ghetto" we had a bridal shower, with yet another potluck.  I brought in my usual salad, and like usual, I managed to spill my bottled water on my chair.  I did the same exact thing at the Christmas potluck.  I sported a large wet spot on my pants during the whole event.  Thank God I wore black pants.  Then my son calls me on the cell phone.  It's on vibrate with tone, and I have the most obnoxious ring ever, so I leave quickly off my seat, only to drop my plate in the hallway.  Lovely!!  Thank God there was nothing on my plate really, and I got help by a friendly probation officer standing by.  It wasn't later that I realized I said the word "shit" when I dropped my plate.  Luckily only a few people heard.  Eek..  Shocking, huh?  Well, some of my co-workers found it very amusing, and it sparked a lively conversation.  I educated them all how to say "shit" in Portuguese, and they thought it sounded, "pretty".  Okay.  I will try to say the word, "merda"  (pronounced like:  MER DAH---roll the R) instead for now on.  In French, it's merde---you say it to people to wish good luck.  In Portuguese, however, it just means shit. 

Anyway's, the couple who are getting married met on the internet.  I don't know the details of it all, but that is how they met.  They are a cute couple, but the groom came across a little nutty--he felt as though he had to read each and every card, word to word.  There was that uncomfortable silence as  he did it, each and every time.  People were smiling, but it was easy to know what they were thinking.  "My God, man, we are on our lunch hour, hurry already!"  At least that is what I wanted to say.  

Me and another clerical person, we'll call her Paula, went together on the gift card.  She bought a bridal shower card, and told me with very sad eyes, "I don't even know what this card means..."  You see, Paula is in her 50's and has confessed to me that she has never been in love before.  She doesn't even know what the card means in that respect.  It was very sad.  I urged her to do what the bride did--get herself on EHarmony.com and find a compatible man!  She is hesitant, but I think she is going to listen to Dr. Phil, and just do it.  

Monday there will be another potluck at our other office for St. Patricks day.  I won't be going to that one. 

Tuesday there is a potluck for someone here that just adopted a puppy.  It's a Puppy Shower Potluck.  Have you ever been to one of those?  I can't say I ever have.  This co-worker has no children, and the doggies she and her husband share are their kids.  I may go to that one.  This lady has gone to at least two baby showers for me; it's the least I can do.  I don't have an idea what to buy the puppy other than doggy snacks and rubber toys.  Remind me to wear a bib and my black pants on that day too. 

We have some new faces here at the ghetto.  There is an older gentlemen who now works part time here.  Let's call him, "Elroy".  From what I've  heard Elroy is "overly qualified" for the job he is doing now, and just wants to "do something" now that he is retired.  He is sharp as a tac, but Elroy is constantly at my desk with questions.  That is fine, I can appreciate his questions, but for God's sake it's the same question over and over again.  One day he comes up and says,

 "Can I ask you a personal question?" 

"Yes?"  Oh my God, I wonder..what is he going to ask me? 

"Do you do anything special with your hair?  You had it down the other day, and it is just gorgeous!" 

I thanked him, and told him that I don't do anything.  I don't have time to even blow dry my hair in the morning, and it's a good day if I don't have a wetspot on the back of my shirt because of it.  It was nice of him to say anyway, but I'm keeping my hair up in a pony tail when he is around.  The last time someone complimented my hair, it was a client sitting in the lobby who smiled a lot.  He was missing his 3 front teeth.  (That's what happens when you use meth.)  I thanked him too, and quickly walked away. 

Tomorrow I will not be at the ghetto.  My cousin's daughter (Tania)  is flying in from Lisbon in the morning, and I want to be home when she gets here.  I also have grocery shopping to do.  The girl loves hash browns.  I also have birthdays to shop for---busy, busy weekend!  Have a great one! 

 

64 Questions

I got this in an email from a old high school buddy...  Feel free to play along..

 

1. What time did you get up this morning?   Hubby woke me up 4:30 am.  I'm not going to say why.  :)

2. Diamonds or pearls?   Diamonds  (duh)

3. Last movie you saw?    Fools Gold  (it was cute)

4. What is your favorite TV show?    Amazing Race

 

5. What do you usually have for breakfast?   Sometimes nothing...and I end up regretting it later.  Coffee is always a must though..

 

6. What is your middle name?  Anne

 

7. What food do you dislike?     Cottage Cheese

 

8. What is your favorite CD at the moment?     I've been listening to Sheryl Crowe & Ricky Martin lately.  I know...strange combo, huh?

9. What kind of car do you drive?    Nissan Altima. 

10. Favorite sandwich?   Veggie with avocado..yummy.

11. What characteristic do you despise?  Liars

 

12. Favorite item of clothing?   Stretch jeans

13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you
go?  Southern Europe, the Mediterranean.

 

14. What color is your bathroom?  Beige/white

 

15. Favorite brand of clothing?      No favorites-I buy what is on sale.

 

16. Where would you retire to?  Monterey, California--if I could afford it.  Or, I'll run to the Azores and stay in hiding.. 

 

17. What was your most memorable birthday?  Gee...there isn't one that really stands out to be honest.  They were all pretty nice.  I remember a few of them when Easter fell the same week, and I got lots and lots of stuffed Easter bunnies. 

18. Favorite sport to watch?  Soccer.

 

19. Farthest place this meme will go to?    Hmm...no telling where. 

20. Who do you least expect to do this meme?  Hmm...  The ex-husband?

21. Person you expect to do it first?   You.

 

22. Favorite saying?     Lovely.

23. When is your birthday?    April 4

 

24. Are you a morning person or a night person?    Morning.

25. What is your shoe size?   8 1/2 or 9. 

26. Pets?   No, not since our cat died last summer.

 

27. What exiting news you'd like to share?  5 year wedding anniversary is next month.  :) 

29. What age are you now?  41

 

30. What is your favorite candy?  Hersheys milk chocolate.

 

31. What is your favorite flower?    Roses--all colors.

32. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to?  April 18th-leaving with hubby for the weekend! 

 

33. What church do you attend?    Holy Family Catholic Church.

 

34. If you had to change your name, what would it be?  Jacqueline

35. What are you listening to right now?   Ticking of the office clock...

36. What was the last thing you ate?    Cinnamon roll with coffee.

 

37. Do you wish on stars?   Yes

 

38. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Burgundy.

 

39. How is the weather right now?  Overcast/drizzly

 

40. Last person you spoke to on the phone?  Mom

 

41. Do you like the person who sent this to you?   Yep.

 

42. Favorite soft drink?    Diet Dr. Pepper

43. Favorite restaurant(s):     El Palomar  (Mexican)

44. Hair color?   Brown

46. Favorite day of the year?     Christmas Day

47. What was your favorite toy as a child?     Barbie

 

48. Summer or winter?   Summer

49. Hugs or Kisses?     Hugs

50. Chocolate or Vanilla?   Vanilla

51. Do you want your friends to do this?     Sure

52. When was the last time you cried?  A while ago. 

 

53. What is under your bed?    The ornamental top of my china hutch.  I need it attached soon! 

55. What did you do last night?  Made dinner, did laundry...etc.. Watched Big Brother, tried to read a magazine.  Nicholas was competing for the attention so it didn't happen. 

 

56. Favorite smell? Fresh baked bread out of the oven.

 

57. What are you afraid of?    Illnesses, disasters...the nightly news..

 

58. Plain, buttered, or salted Popcorn?    Butter please!

59. How many keys on your key ring?  Far too many.

 

60. How many years at your current job?  Far too many.  I've been a county employee 20 years this May.  Can I cry now?

 

61. Favorite day of the week?     Friday

62. How many towns have you lived in?    4

 

63. Do you make friends easily?    Sometimes

 

64. How many people will be reading this?  I have no idea.  Two may be.  :)   

 

 

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Harry Won't Be Comin' Around Anymore

Happy Monday!

Was it as hard as it was for you to get out of bed as it was for me?  Damn.  I feel betrayed and cheated from my hour of sleep!  I have no idea how the two older children are going to get up today.  I bet my daughter is still sleeping.  One came home from a movie a little before midnight, and the other at 2:30 am was still awake.  Nicholas woke up at 2 am and came crawling into bed with us.  I don't care what the kids say, I think I will go to bed 9 pm today.  Call me old--I don't care.

Remember when I wrote about "Harry"?  Harry is the guy who has been lingering around the ghetto lobby almost every day.  He wears a beret on his head, and looks very studious, and un criminal looking.  He looks more like one of those artist/intellectual types.  He is very annoying because we see him at the ghetto building EVERYDAY.  I am not exaggerating.  On Friday, he came to visit the lobby 4 times.  Yes--4 times.  In the morning I saw him standing in the hallway.  Then a hour later he was in the lobby.  Then he comes back to the window with more questions.  Then he comes back to say he is coming back to pay his fine.  You can tell he has never been in "trouble" before and I can appreciate why he is being really overly cautious about following the rules.  But, everyday?!  The good news is he won't be coming around for the next 4 months, because he is doing his jail sentence for 4 months.  Thank God.  I don't know about you, but if I had to do four months jail time I would not be hanging around the ghetto. 

More good news:  The receptionist is here!  I don't have to sit in the lobby!  Yay!

Bad news:  The toilets are flooded!  The carpets leading from the men's and women's bathrooms are all wet!  Lovely. 

It's a beautiful Spring day outside--the sky is blue and the little birdies are singing.  I hope to take a walk this afternoon to enjoy the sunshine.  I just have to get over this awful headache.

This weekend was nice, but kind of hectic.  I went to San Francisco with my daughter on Saturday to visit the art college she wants to go to.  I was very impressed by it, but saw far too many bums in the streets smoking dope right there out in the open for all the world to see.  The college was nice, and I can really see daughter getting into graphic art/advertising.  There is also a great theatre department.  She seems real excited.  We sat down and I was pretty impressed by some of the instructors there.  If I was younger-copy writing would be something I would be really interested in.  Oh to be young again...sigh..  She may start in the Spring--we shall see. 

We took some cool pictures in the city in front of a wall of graffiti--colorfully, and masterly done.  We used her camera of course, and she promised to send me the pictures--still waiting.  It's with Erik--I know---I haven't posted them yet.  I look real "bad ass" according to Lizzy.  I confess...I almost peed my pants when I saw myself.  Yes, there were people around, but we didn't care.  They didn't know us.  If bums can smoke dope on the streets we can take embarrassing pictures, right? 

Sunday was slow and uneventful.  I bought flowers to plant; but that loss of that hour really threw me off course.  Even the kids seems to be more unruly than usual.  We had to stop Big Brother (Thank God for Tivo) at least 7 times before we got to see the whole show.  Urrr..  Hubby and I need to go away for another weekend.  We are going next month, but that may not come soon enough. 

Sunday, after my trip to the nursery to buy flowers to plant, I stopped by  the grocery store nearest to it.  It's not the grocery store I usually go to, and I always end up forgetting something because the lay out of the store is different from the one I usually go to.  Don't you hate that?  (I forgot the paper towels!) Well anyway, I get in a line, and I'm putting my groceries on the conveyer belt, when the guy behind me says:

"That register next door is faster.  There is no one there."  (guy) 

I look up and see the guy I saw earlier in the frozen food aisle.  He was hard not to notice because he was the one throwing dozens and dozens of $1 frozen pizzas in is cart.  "No thanks, I'm not going to leave now.  I've already started getting things out of my cart."  (me)

"Oh, but that line is faster."  (guy)

"No, I'm not leaving now."  (me)

"Ooh, but I like this lady cashier."  (guy)

Okay, this guy was asking me to pick up my things and move to the next register, so this lady cashier could ring him up.  I looked at him with disbelief. 

"Um.. Sorry, but I'm not moving."  (me)

"Oh, that's okay..  I'm just saying." (guy)

Can you believe that?  He eventually moved to the next register, and he did finish a little before I did, but before he did, he was eyeing the poor lady cashier's behind.  It gave me the creeps.  Then he reached down and grabbed a bag right behind her.  I think he was actually trying to get her attention.  Well, either she didn't see him, or she paid no attention to him because she didn't acknowledge the guy at all.  I bet that really pissed him off, and I'm glad.  The nerve of some people!  It's still bugging me. 

It's Friday :)

I got this poem in an email this morning from a friend of mine.    When you send this to 3 women, the email says you'll be blessed for the entire day.  Well, since I know more than 3 women, who need a lot of blessings, I'm including it in my entry today!  Feel free to copy and paste and spread it around.  Words from a very wise woman:

   

                           MAYA ANGELOU'S' BEST POEM EVER
 
                                       

  
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

enough money within her control to move out
and rent a place of her own,
 even if she never wants to or needs to...



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

something perfect to wear if the employer,
 or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour...



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .

a youth she's content to leave behind....



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to
retelling it in her old age....



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .....

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra...



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ....

one friend who always makes her laugh... and one who lets her cry...



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family....



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems,
and a recipe for a meal,
 that will make her guests feel honored...



A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ....

a feeling of control over her destiny....



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to fall in love without losing herself..



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to quit a job,
break up with a lover,
and confront a friend without;
ruining the friendship...


EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

when to try harder... and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that she can't change the length of her calves,
the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that her childhood may not have been perfect...but it's over...



EVERY WOMA N SHOULD KNOW...

what she would and wouldn't do for love or more...



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
how to live alone... even if she doesn't like it...



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW.. ..

whom she can trust,
whom she can't,
and why she shouldn't take it personally...



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

where to go...
be it to her best friend's kitchen table...
or a charming inn in the woods...
when her soul needs soothing...



EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she can and can't accomplish in a day...
a month...and a year...

 

 

Lost Love At The Ghetto

I got an interesting call this morning at the reception desk.  (Yes receptionist is still out on the potty.) Another guy was looking for his sweetheart.  She (the girlfriend) was just booked at the county jail, and this guy wanted to leave a message with her p.o. 

I don't know about everyone, but when I meet people I like to know names--especially if I "fall in love" with them.  I guess this guy "forgot" to ask.

"She's a pretty gal with dark hair.  I think her last name starts with a M." (caller)

"Do you happen to know her first name?"  (me)

"Um..  You know, she is about 5'6, dark hair, real pretty, and she has a broken ankle."

"You don't know her name?"  (me)

"No, I just know that her last name sounds like "Miloski".  (caller)

I try and pull up the name under different spellings, but I'm getting no success.  The only names I get close to that last name he gives me (that he can't even spell) belong to an old guy and a juvenile male. 

"I'm sorry sir, but I can't find this person in our system."  (me)

"You mean to tell me there is more than one woman fitting this description I just told you?!  This woman is pretty, in her 30's and has a cast on!"

"I'm sorry, but I'm not at the jail office.  I don't see the people being booked."

"Oh damn.  I really love her.  What should I do?"

I hold back what I really want to say:  "Next time, get a name."

"Call the jail receptionist.  May be they recall the woman who you are describing.."

"Well her public defender is  ___  _______" 

Okay, this guy doesn't know his girlfriend's name, but he knows the name of her public defender.  Now that is just nutty. 

And then there is this other guy; let's call him Harry. 

Harry is at the ghetto almost everyday.  He is a client, and he is always around the building.  He isn't a transient type of guy, or a mental health patient.  Harry actually looks pretty normal, and not the sort of person you would picture being a criminal of any type-and no he isn't a sex offender either.  (The sex offenders are pretty normal looking-which is even more frightening.) He is always coming to the building leaving messages, and asking questions.  I am guessing he has a crush with someone in the building.  Weird.  Isn't there some place else Harry should be? 

The Budda looking guy that used to sit in the parking lot, and open doors for women hasn't been around lately.  He has been replaced by another guy who reminds me of the "crying Indian" that used be in commercials against pollution.  He sits there and does nothing.  He just sits there, leaves, and comes back.  May be he is meditating, I don't know.  He just sits there.  May be he knows something about life that we don't. 

When was the last time you just sat somewhere and did nothing?  I can't recall for myself when I last did that.  May be he is just waiting for a friend---you know, the pretty lady, with the dark hair, last name starts with an M, who has a broken ankle and a cast on...

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I'm going to Disneyland!

I've just made plans with my sister in-law, Becky, and we are Disneyland bound in June!  YIPPEEE!!!  It will be the both of us and 5 kids-4 of mine, and her son.  Nope, hubby is staying home.  He only makes an appearance at Disneyland every 10 years.  I'm not kidding.  He has the shirts to prove it.  I will have to get a shirt that says 50th anniversary, because all he has is 30th and 40th.  I'll miss him, but we'll have fun.  It won't be for a few months, but it will be something to look forward to. 

We also hope to make a stop in Venice, California to visit sister-inlaw, Janet.  She apparently knows where the Hollywood types eat and hang out...  Hmm..  I've never been to Venice; I hear it's beautiful. 

Something to look forward too...

This week has gone by fairly quickly--it always does when I'm busier than usual.  This weekend I have a trek to San Francisco with Lizzy, and Sunday I must devote in cleaning up the house a bit.  My lovely, and beautiful cousin Tania is  flying down next Friday from Lisbon..  OMG..this is the last weekend I have to prepare!!  I don't have much to do..I just want to do some extra cleaning.  It's the Portuguese/mom/woman in me; a house can never be clean enough, and it's better to have more food than not enough on the table.  I must remember that life is too short to waste on cleaning..but with 4 kids at home, it seems never-ending.  I also have to pull weeds from the front yard.  I know the neighbor, Ms. Stuart shudders each time she sees them near her front yard...

I got another call for another interview for another job that requires night shift work yesterday.  It pays well, and it's near home, but again---I would have to live like a vampire.  It ain't going to work with my 4 year old.  If he was older, and if I didn't really care whether or not I see my husband, it wouldn't be an issue..but, I value the time with my kids and hubby too much.  We would basically only see eachother a few waking hours a day.  Not good.   

Thankful Thursday:

1.  My job..  It pays okay, and it's a commute, but it's a job.  Nowadays there are way too many people without one. 

2.  My healthy family/hubby & kids. 

3.  My home/house filled with the healthy kids and hubby. 

4.  Road trips!!  Love them!!

Have a lovely Thursday! 

Patrick is sick :(

I just found out that one of my favorite actors of all time was recently diagnosed with early stages of pancreatic cancer. 

I'm sad for him and his family. 

I'm pretty bummed right now.  Keeping you in my prayers, Pat. 

Ben & I

Ouch..  I have to stop picking up the little guy so much. 

Every morning I pick him up, go down the stairs and strap him in the car seat, and every morning, I pick him up again and carry him through the front door of my mom's usually with a bag on the other arm.  I think I have to stop doing this.  He is 50 pounds already, and the sleeping 50 pound 4 year old is doing a number on my back-and my butt. 

Ouch... 

I went to bed with Ben Gay all over me.  Nothing says, "romantic and sexy" more than the eucalyptus aroma of Ben Gay. 

I'm a bit tired and sore today.  My daughter did a floor set last night, and didn't get home until 2 a.m.  She got a ride home, but of course, I woke up at 1 a.m., and couldn't go back to sleep until I heard her at the front door.  I never sleep well when the kids are not all home. 

Of course the receptionist is home again with another case of diarrhea, so I've been covering the front desk for a few days.  With all this fabulous weather outside, many of the clients are coming in all cheery and eager to make payments and turn in their report forms like good boys and girls.  Also, love is in the air--in our lobby.  It never ceases to amaze me--it's like a EHarmony.com meeting room. 

Yesterday I found myself in a predicament.  I get a call from a very friendly caller asking about his girlfriend who he dropped off at the office.  He starts his call, with, "Hi, how are you?  Are you having a good day?"  He says it in a tone of voice that comes across as truly sincere-not sarcastic at all.  I'm always surprised by calls like these, and it throws me back.  Usually the people who call in are rude, obnoxious, or clueless.  And, I should add, the majority of my rude calls don't come from clients--they come from snooty attorneys, who expect you to drop everything just by the mention of their name from so, and so legal office of so and so.. 

 Anyway, this guy is calling about his girlfriend.  Apparently he was to pick  her up after her appointment, but he was running late.  How do you break the news that his girlfriend just left the building, escorted by two probation officers on her way to the slammer?  Hmm..  I was afraid I would bring the poor guy to tears, but fortunately, he took  the news rather well, and even told me to have a "good day." 

I am in March denial--how did March come so early?  May be it is because I know my birthday is coming next month, but I cannot believe it's almost Spring.  I love this time of year, but this year is already flying too fast for me.  I am going to have to register my son into high school this year, (high school, already?!) and I need to start registering my youngest into kindergarten. Eeek...  I still remember my first day of kindergarten!  Why are the years flying by so fricken fast??!! 

My first day of kindergarten, I was wearing white tights, and red, shiny patent shoes-and of course a big ole' ribbon in my hair.  Yes, I was the overly dressed chubby little girl in the corner.  Aww...it seems just like yesterday...

 

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Hello...Monday

Happy Monday! 

It's actually a beautiful day in the neighborhood today!  I just got back from my afternoon walk to the drugs store, through the county park.  All the loonies are out sunning themselves on the county park lawn, and the police forces are out on their quad vehicles.  Oh my God, they look so stupid.  I'm sorry, but when I saw them, I had to laugh out loud.  They look like kids Big Wheels. 

I had an okay weekend-nothing really exciting, but I did go to the famous Wendy's in San Jose. 

You know, the Wendy's where that woman planted a severed human finger in her chili?  To tell you the truth, I'm not a fan of chili, but just thinking about having a bowl of chili after that woman said she bit into it, makes the thought of even buying a bowl creepy.  No, chili for me--I was craving a chocolate frosty!

 

We went through the drive thru-the lady at the window was overly happy and excited to see us.  It was interesting.  We passed this Wendy's after dropping off one of my daughter's friends home.  I now know a new route to get through downtown San Jose, and to my merriment, it went directly to the new mall I was hoping to go to. 

Sunday I woke up with a terrible migraine headache.  It felt like one of those hangover headaches, but..it wasn't.  No drinking was done the night previous.  I hate those headaches where you feel completely nauseous and you just want to sleep all day.  I did manage to get Andrew to go to church with me Sunday night, and I met my friend Angela and her daughter in the parking lot.  It was nice catching up between the sermon with her-I hadn't seen her in awhile. 

It's Spring outside...first day of Spring is due on the 21st..  Awww...my favorite time of year.  (Thanks Lisa Jo for the following tag!)