When I first saw the trailers for Maleficent, I knew this was a movie I wanted to see.
Unfortunately, my usual movie date (my son) was not as interested as I. Of my back up movie dates, one was out of town and the other not so interested either.
Eventually, I wore Man-Child down (after reminding him of all the mindless, inane movies that were targeted to the tween boy demographic that I had attended with him) and today he agreed to go.
As, I'm sure you've heard by now, this is the story of Sleeping Beauty from a different viewpoint. After watching the movie, I realized I couldn't quite remember WHY Maleficent was so spiteful as to curse an innocent child in an effort to hurt the parents (remember, I had a boy-child; so I didn't re-see all the Disney princess movies/stories. In this house it was more along the lines of Peter Pan, etc.). So away to Google I went.
I read a couple of different versions but the premise was pretty much the same...because she wasn't invited to the christening in the first place. Definitely NOT a good reason to curse a child, but unfortunately, both in fairy tales and real life, there are people who are that spiteful.
In THIS version, I can almost agree with why she cursed the child. A woman done dirty is one thing. To strip the very essence of who that woman was is another. And to do so for power and glory? Inexcusable.
And, as we all know, hell hath no fury as a woman scorned (and disfigured)....
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. Man-Child wasn't as enthusiastic about it as I; but has conceded that "it was good." High praise, indeed.
So, in my opinion, if you are even a little curious about this movie, go see it. Unless you are a Disney purist. If you are, then you probably won't like it. At all.
June 22, 2014
June 14, 2014
You guys?! Guess what I found?!
As I was driving through a neighborhood that I pass through once or twice a week, I spotted something new. And magical! (At least to me)
A LITTLE FREE LIBRARY!!
Ever since I've heard about these I've been wanting to stumble across one. And make one. Or thirty.
You all know how much I love to read.
I had been to their website and knew that we had a few in town; but didn't seek any of them out, because I wanted to "stumble across one." And I did. And It.Made.My.Day!!
Unfortunately, I didn't have time to stop. But today, I made my way there...on purpose. I left off some books to be passed on. I didn't take any, but one day soon, I'm sure I will.
As I said, ever since I've heard about these I've wanted one. But our last house was on a busy road and it wasn't safe. Here, we are renting and I don't think the owner would approve.
But I'm wondering if I could slip one past the Homeowner's Association in one of the public areas...if I didn't register it, they'd never know it was me...unless they read my blog (doubtful).
I know, without a doubt, that our next house will be sporting one of these. And, if I can figure out a way to sprinkle these all over town - I would. It's a fabulous idea. Take a book...leave a book.
 |
| This is NOT the one I saw. I |
A LITTLE FREE LIBRARY!!
Ever since I've heard about these I've been wanting to stumble across one. And make one. Or thirty.
You all know how much I love to read.
I had been to their website and knew that we had a few in town; but didn't seek any of them out, because I wanted to "stumble across one." And I did. And It.Made.My.Day!!
Unfortunately, I didn't have time to stop. But today, I made my way there...on purpose. I left off some books to be passed on. I didn't take any, but one day soon, I'm sure I will.
As I said, ever since I've heard about these I've wanted one. But our last house was on a busy road and it wasn't safe. Here, we are renting and I don't think the owner would approve.
But I'm wondering if I could slip one past the Homeowner's Association in one of the public areas...if I didn't register it, they'd never know it was me...unless they read my blog (doubtful).
I know, without a doubt, that our next house will be sporting one of these. And, if I can figure out a way to sprinkle these all over town - I would. It's a fabulous idea. Take a book...leave a book.
June 11, 2014
I've always suspected but now I know....
Our receptionist is one of the nicest people in the world. Really. BUT...in the many years that I have been with this company I have always been of the opinion that she sends crazy phone calls to random departments just to screw with us.
Today, I discovered that this, is in fact, the truth.
Every time I see a phone call being transferred from the front desk to either my line or my one of my bosses lines, I know it's going to be a doozy. See my last post about random phone calls from the front desk...
But, as I mentioned earlier, today I have the proof.
Today, I received a call from the mail room. Remember that...it's an integral part to this story.
The guy from the mail room started off the conversation with this...
"So-n-So sent this call to me; so I'm sending it to you..."
I headed him off at the pass. Because with an opening like THAT, I KNEW this was a call I DID NOT want to take - particularly considering that it was almost 4:30 pm. Everyone knows that after 4:30 pm no real work is getting done, if you can avoid it.
I asked what they wanted. And he informed me that this was an individual who was NOT HAPPY. And that if we didn't give him money he was going to sue... What is it with these people? Do they think we sit here and write out handsome checks to people just because they utter the word lawsuit?
I informed the mail room guy that he should tell the guy to call his lawyer. Because, honestly? It really isn't my job to help some random person sue the company that I currently WORK FOR.
Two minutes later, I received another call from the mail room...this time asking me if I knew John Doe? Basically, playing the "Don't you know who I am?!" card. I replied that I damn sure did not and, to be clear, I didn't care.
After that the phone was quiet. And then, after thinking about the situation, the truth became glaringly obvious. The receptionist IS screwing with us all. Because WHY, in God's name, would you send someone who is screaming "lawsuit" to the mail room and not the Legal Department?
Today, I discovered that this, is in fact, the truth.
Every time I see a phone call being transferred from the front desk to either my line or my one of my bosses lines, I know it's going to be a doozy. See my last post about random phone calls from the front desk...
But, as I mentioned earlier, today I have the proof.
Today, I received a call from the mail room. Remember that...it's an integral part to this story.
The guy from the mail room started off the conversation with this...
"So-n-So sent this call to me; so I'm sending it to you..."
I headed him off at the pass. Because with an opening like THAT, I KNEW this was a call I DID NOT want to take - particularly considering that it was almost 4:30 pm. Everyone knows that after 4:30 pm no real work is getting done, if you can avoid it.
I asked what they wanted. And he informed me that this was an individual who was NOT HAPPY. And that if we didn't give him money he was going to sue... What is it with these people? Do they think we sit here and write out handsome checks to people just because they utter the word lawsuit?
I informed the mail room guy that he should tell the guy to call his lawyer. Because, honestly? It really isn't my job to help some random person sue the company that I currently WORK FOR.
Two minutes later, I received another call from the mail room...this time asking me if I knew John Doe? Basically, playing the "Don't you know who I am?!" card. I replied that I damn sure did not and, to be clear, I didn't care.
After that the phone was quiet. And then, after thinking about the situation, the truth became glaringly obvious. The receptionist IS screwing with us all. Because WHY, in God's name, would you send someone who is screaming "lawsuit" to the mail room and not the Legal Department?
June 3, 2014
No...I don't *want* to tell you (oh-so-young, new employee) what to wear but....obviously, someone needs to...
First and foremost, I am NOT an old, fuddy-duddy but...someone really needs to inform these oh-so-young employees about how to dress properly for this particularly, uber-conservative, corporate office. And, apparently, this job has fallen to me. So without further ado....
No. I am NOT about to tell you that you should wear a suit every day. Nor am I going to say that nylons are a MUST. Or that open toed shoes are verboten.
Because, obviously, in this day and age that advice is ridiculous. But what I AM going to suggest is that you look to your superiors. Notice what are they wearing and emulate that - no, really.
There is an old adage that goes something along the lines of "Dress for the job you want." Despite the fact that it is an old adage; it still holds true.
Which means...you should not, under any circumstances, come to work wearing a maxi sundress. With sandals; which, while technically aren't flip flops they still make that slap, slap noise against your heels. Basically, the rule of thumb is this, if your outfit is something that would work for a backyard barbecue or for a pool party then it is NOT the outfit for the uber-conservative, corporate office. Period. Even if your job is "creative."
Remember that despite the whole "don't judge a book by the cover" thing - people do. They will look at your oh-so-casual look and judge you. They will deem you to be unprofessional. And once you are deemed unprofessional, you will not be taken seriously. And in the uber-conservative, corporate office where you are currently employed, THAT is the kiss of death - something to be avoided at all costs.
And besides, do you really want to be the subject of the whole "Did you see what she was wearing today" conversation that ensued?
Yes. I agree. It seems old fashioned. But remember, you are working for the uber-conservative, corporate office. All the men are still required to wear suits and ties (I KNOW!). So if your boss is wearing a suit and tie then that pretty much rules out maxi sundresses and the almost flip flops for the office wardrobe.
No. I am NOT about to tell you that you should wear a suit every day. Nor am I going to say that nylons are a MUST. Or that open toed shoes are verboten.
Because, obviously, in this day and age that advice is ridiculous. But what I AM going to suggest is that you look to your superiors. Notice what are they wearing and emulate that - no, really.
There is an old adage that goes something along the lines of "Dress for the job you want." Despite the fact that it is an old adage; it still holds true.
Which means...you should not, under any circumstances, come to work wearing a maxi sundress. With sandals; which, while technically aren't flip flops they still make that slap, slap noise against your heels. Basically, the rule of thumb is this, if your outfit is something that would work for a backyard barbecue or for a pool party then it is NOT the outfit for the uber-conservative, corporate office. Period. Even if your job is "creative."
Remember that despite the whole "don't judge a book by the cover" thing - people do. They will look at your oh-so-casual look and judge you. They will deem you to be unprofessional. And once you are deemed unprofessional, you will not be taken seriously. And in the uber-conservative, corporate office where you are currently employed, THAT is the kiss of death - something to be avoided at all costs.
And besides, do you really want to be the subject of the whole "Did you see what she was wearing today" conversation that ensued?
Yes. I agree. It seems old fashioned. But remember, you are working for the uber-conservative, corporate office. All the men are still required to wear suits and ties (I KNOW!). So if your boss is wearing a suit and tie then that pretty much rules out maxi sundresses and the almost flip flops for the office wardrobe.
June 2, 2014
From the "Are you freaking kidding me?" files....
You know it's a Monday when, while walking into work, you are pooped on by a bird.
Yes. Really.
Luckily, it landed on my skirt - and not my head. HAD it landed on my head, I would have just turned around and went home; never to be seen again. As it was, it was bad enough.
As I was walking into the building, I glanced down and thought, "What is that?" and automatically reached down to swipe it off. As I touched the goo, I realized what had happened. Needless to say I freaked out a little.
I ran to the bathroom to scrub my hands and skirt. But a phantom stain has remained behind on my hand, skirt and psyche.
I don't think I'll ever get rid of it.
Yes. Really.
Luckily, it landed on my skirt - and not my head. HAD it landed on my head, I would have just turned around and went home; never to be seen again. As it was, it was bad enough.
As I was walking into the building, I glanced down and thought, "What is that?" and automatically reached down to swipe it off. As I touched the goo, I realized what had happened. Needless to say I freaked out a little.
I ran to the bathroom to scrub my hands and skirt. But a phantom stain has remained behind on my hand, skirt and psyche.
I don't think I'll ever get rid of it.
May 31, 2014
The day off that wasn't...
Despite the fact that this is "short" week, thanks to the Memorial Day holiday; I decided to take yesterday off. Why? Good question.
We finally found a car for Man-Child (we won't speak of the fact that I've been after Hubby to make this a priority since...I don't know....MARCH!) and we needed to get the plates and tags for the car so we could bring it home. So I decided that I would take the day off to stand in line at the DMV's plate agency. The one of TWO that serves this area. Don't get me started...
But before I could even go stand in line, I had to wait for my husband to obtain the temporary, proof of insurance for this car (of which, I reminded him to do on Wednesday AND Thursday! Obviously, he forgot) and arrive on this side of town - which wouldn't happen until about 10:30 am.
To kill time, I cleaned house. Almost top to bottom...no judging. But I did clean the refrigerator of all the science experiments - so I get extra points for that.
Once he called to tell me he was headed my way, I hopped in the car and headed to the agreed upon rendezvous. The timing was excellent. He handed me the papers and counseled me to be patient. We decided that if, miracle of miracles, I happened to make it out alive, unarrested, and early enough that we would have lunch. I wasn't holding out hope. About any of it.
Upon arrival, at the dank, seedy place that houses the DMV's, outsourced plate agency, I discovered that the line was out the door. Of course. Once I made it inside the door, I discovered there were two lines. It took me a minute - and some discussion with my fellow line standers - to realize which line I needed to be in. I was elated to discover it was the shorter of the two. Fifteen minutes later, I realized that while this line was shorter it was also the slower. *sigh*
After forty-five minutes of standing in line, it was my turn. I confidently handed over the paperwork that my husband had so thoughtfully filled out beforehand. And was promptly informed that unless I had a power of attorney to sign for my husband I was out of luck, since he had neglected to add my name to the title. And, of course, I didn't.
Needless to say, I wasn't happy. The whole reason I took the day off in the first place turned out to be a major waste of time.
So, of course, I called my husband to rant (because somehow he should have known this would happen) and to meet for lunch.
As I was driving to lunch, I received a call from "someone" who was looking for another place on his/her route. *sigh* This person needs to figure out his/her various routes quickly. I'm getting rather tired of being stressed out and tense every day that they go to work. AND being asked to be a human GPS. Luckily, this time he/she was able to figure it out on their own - which tells me that soon, very soon, I won't have to worry so much.
Luckily, after eating lunch, I felt much, much calmer. Funny how that works.
At any rate, Hubby ended up having to go to the DMV anyway (and ended up in the wrong line; which - sue me - made me laugh) and I came home to clean Man-Child's room.
When MC came home from college he just DUMPED all his stuff in the middle of his bedroom and has been living around it. I couldn't take it anymore. Had we still been in our old house maybe I could have held out; seeing as his room was on the other side of the house. But seeing as that now I have to see the mess EVERY SINGLE TIME I walk into my bedroom...?! I just couldn't take it.
I have informed him that the pristine condition in which he found his room this evening is the condition I expect it to be on a daily basis. We will see how that goes.
So now, as I sit here reflecting upon the events of my "day off," I've discovered something...
Days off are supposed to be relaxing. Most of mine are anything but. I need to work on that.
We finally found a car for Man-Child (we won't speak of the fact that I've been after Hubby to make this a priority since...I don't know....MARCH!) and we needed to get the plates and tags for the car so we could bring it home. So I decided that I would take the day off to stand in line at the DMV's plate agency. The one of TWO that serves this area. Don't get me started...
But before I could even go stand in line, I had to wait for my husband to obtain the temporary, proof of insurance for this car (of which, I reminded him to do on Wednesday AND Thursday! Obviously, he forgot) and arrive on this side of town - which wouldn't happen until about 10:30 am.
To kill time, I cleaned house. Almost top to bottom...no judging. But I did clean the refrigerator of all the science experiments - so I get extra points for that.
Once he called to tell me he was headed my way, I hopped in the car and headed to the agreed upon rendezvous. The timing was excellent. He handed me the papers and counseled me to be patient. We decided that if, miracle of miracles, I happened to make it out alive, unarrested, and early enough that we would have lunch. I wasn't holding out hope. About any of it.
Upon arrival, at the dank, seedy place that houses the DMV's, outsourced plate agency, I discovered that the line was out the door. Of course. Once I made it inside the door, I discovered there were two lines. It took me a minute - and some discussion with my fellow line standers - to realize which line I needed to be in. I was elated to discover it was the shorter of the two. Fifteen minutes later, I realized that while this line was shorter it was also the slower. *sigh*
After forty-five minutes of standing in line, it was my turn. I confidently handed over the paperwork that my husband had so thoughtfully filled out beforehand. And was promptly informed that unless I had a power of attorney to sign for my husband I was out of luck, since he had neglected to add my name to the title. And, of course, I didn't.
Needless to say, I wasn't happy. The whole reason I took the day off in the first place turned out to be a major waste of time.
So, of course, I called my husband to rant (because somehow he should have known this would happen) and to meet for lunch.
As I was driving to lunch, I received a call from "someone" who was looking for another place on his/her route. *sigh* This person needs to figure out his/her various routes quickly. I'm getting rather tired of being stressed out and tense every day that they go to work. AND being asked to be a human GPS. Luckily, this time he/she was able to figure it out on their own - which tells me that soon, very soon, I won't have to worry so much.
Luckily, after eating lunch, I felt much, much calmer. Funny how that works.
At any rate, Hubby ended up having to go to the DMV anyway (and ended up in the wrong line; which - sue me - made me laugh) and I came home to clean Man-Child's room.
When MC came home from college he just DUMPED all his stuff in the middle of his bedroom and has been living around it. I couldn't take it anymore. Had we still been in our old house maybe I could have held out; seeing as his room was on the other side of the house. But seeing as that now I have to see the mess EVERY SINGLE TIME I walk into my bedroom...?! I just couldn't take it.
I have informed him that the pristine condition in which he found his room this evening is the condition I expect it to be on a daily basis. We will see how that goes.
So now, as I sit here reflecting upon the events of my "day off," I've discovered something...
Days off are supposed to be relaxing. Most of mine are anything but. I need to work on that.
May 9, 2014
Once again, I find myself blatantly ripping off someone else's material.....
How much do you "hate" people?
This was the topic the other day on the Bob and Sheri show. Yes, once again, I find myself "borrowing" their material.
The topic was selected because of this tongue-in-cheek survey on Buzzfeed. Here was my result....
Now, of course, I'm sure the results would vary from day to day. Apparently, today I am not harboring resentment against ALL of humanity, only a portion.
But, if I could have had the option to quadruple-check a couple of them (most especially, "When someone makes loud chewing or drinking sounds") then my results might have been dramatically different.
But I also couldn't help but notice that they've missed a few. Such as....
1. When someone leaves less than a quarter inch of coffee in the pot and doesn't make a new pot.
2. When someone refuses to restock the printer and/or fax machine with paper.
3. People who don't use turn signals (it's not all office related).
4. When someone procrastinates for weeks and then tells you they need something from you. NOW.
5. When "someone" (aka Man-Child) promised that he'd be packed and ready to go when I went to pick him up for the summer. Not only was he not packed; he was still asleep and didn't answer his phone; despite me calling him eighteen times. And then?! To compound matters, he hadn't even begun to clean. *sigh* Suffice it to say, he lives like an animal. It's a story for another day.
6. When someone fiddle-faddles around, or has a convoluted order, at the drive-thru.
7. When they give you the wrong drink at the drive-thru.
8. People who text and drive. Need I say more?
Hmmm, maybe people get on my nerves more than I thought, since I could go on and on. But I won't.
So what about you? What's your score? Or your biggest pet peeve?
5. When "someone" (aka Man-Child) promised that he'd be packed and ready to go when I went to pick him up for the summer. Not only was he not packed; he was still asleep and didn't answer his phone; despite me calling him eighteen times. And then?! To compound matters, he hadn't even begun to clean. *sigh* Suffice it to say, he lives like an animal. It's a story for another day.
6. When someone fiddle-faddles around, or has a convoluted order, at the drive-thru.
7. When they give you the wrong drink at the drive-thru.
8. People who text and drive. Need I say more?
Hmmm, maybe people get on my nerves more than I thought, since I could go on and on. But I won't.
So what about you? What's your score? Or your biggest pet peeve?
May 6, 2014
My newest favorite product
I just HAVE to share this information with the world. And no, I haven't been compensated in any way, but IF the company wants to send me a free, lifetime supply I wouldn't say no.
What could this amazing product be, you wonder. Well, let me tell you. It's Hollywood Fashion Secret. This stuff is fabulous!
I don't know about you - but besides the belt issue described in the link above - I have narrow shoulders. This fact was hammered home to me after I fell in love with, and bought, several boat neck tops. And then began the constant task of trying to keep my bra straps under wraps.
A nearly impossible feat.
And, as you can imagine, the sight of peek-a-boo bra straps ruined the whole look I was going for.
Which led me to the "almighty Google." I figured I couldn't be the ONLY one with this problem.
And it turns out - I wasn't. Only, the results that I received included wearing a tank top of the same color underneath (too hot and/or bulky) or sewing (never gonna happen). And then, buried in the comments, I saw someone mention this tape. Although, they clarified, they'd never actually used the product. Rather than Googling the product, I found myself falling down a different rabbit hole in the Internet - as you do.
Now I have been known to use various office products (packing tape and/or staples) to fix wardrobe malfunctions; i.e. ripped hims, etc. with so-so results.
Despite what you may think, packing tape (even the good kind) does not hold all day and staples...well, they can actually ruin your clothing.
So the next time I found myself in a store that carried the product (SteinMart, if you must know), and I actually noticed that they carried the product, I picked up a package. Needless to say, the very next day I tried the product with a boat neck top.
I applied the tape to my bra strap and secured the top to the tape. And miracle of miracles! It held! ALL DAY. And surprisingly, even upon removal the tape was still sticky; whereas packing tape would have long last its stickiness by the end of the day.
Now, obviously, you need to remove the tape and toss it after each use. Also, you want to be careful to not get it on your skin. Not that it will remove the top layer of your skin upon removal, but it is slightly uncomfortable and will leave a residue but nowhere near as painful as removing duct tape would be. Ask me how I know?
But all that aside; this product works. And I am no longer spending an inordinate amount of time adjusting my clothing. Which means I'm far more productive at work. Well...that's my story anyway.
What could this amazing product be, you wonder. Well, let me tell you. It's Hollywood Fashion Secret. This stuff is fabulous!
I don't know about you - but besides the belt issue described in the link above - I have narrow shoulders. This fact was hammered home to me after I fell in love with, and bought, several boat neck tops. And then began the constant task of trying to keep my bra straps under wraps.
A nearly impossible feat.
And, as you can imagine, the sight of peek-a-boo bra straps ruined the whole look I was going for.
Which led me to the "almighty Google." I figured I couldn't be the ONLY one with this problem.
And it turns out - I wasn't. Only, the results that I received included wearing a tank top of the same color underneath (too hot and/or bulky) or sewing (never gonna happen). And then, buried in the comments, I saw someone mention this tape. Although, they clarified, they'd never actually used the product. Rather than Googling the product, I found myself falling down a different rabbit hole in the Internet - as you do.
Now I have been known to use various office products (packing tape and/or staples) to fix wardrobe malfunctions; i.e. ripped hims, etc. with so-so results.
Despite what you may think, packing tape (even the good kind) does not hold all day and staples...well, they can actually ruin your clothing.
So the next time I found myself in a store that carried the product (SteinMart, if you must know), and I actually noticed that they carried the product, I picked up a package. Needless to say, the very next day I tried the product with a boat neck top.
I applied the tape to my bra strap and secured the top to the tape. And miracle of miracles! It held! ALL DAY. And surprisingly, even upon removal the tape was still sticky; whereas packing tape would have long last its stickiness by the end of the day.
Now, obviously, you need to remove the tape and toss it after each use. Also, you want to be careful to not get it on your skin. Not that it will remove the top layer of your skin upon removal, but it is slightly uncomfortable and will leave a residue but nowhere near as painful as removing duct tape would be. Ask me how I know?
But all that aside; this product works. And I am no longer spending an inordinate amount of time adjusting my clothing. Which means I'm far more productive at work. Well...that's my story anyway.
April 28, 2014
I should just turn in my "blogger" card now...if I even had a card to begin with...(or...how I ended up with a new nickname)
I used to be pretty good at recording the minutiae that is my life. Lately? Not so much; despite the fact that I have random thoughts of "oh, I should blog about this!" every day. Despite the fact that I currently have an untold amount of drafts just waiting to be published.
*sigh*
The problem with the drafts is this - most of what I write is in the minute, so if it sits for a while - waiting for me to edit or whatever - then I lose that sense of urgency to hit publish.
At any rate, Easter. Yeah, I know, that is SO eight days ago!
As I was saying...Easter. We decided this year to visit my Mother-In-Law. Something we haven't done in at least five years. And that's not because she is a problematic Mother-In-Law. No, on the contrary, she is a fabulous Mother-In-Law. In fact, she is so great that I have informed my husband on many, many occasions that should this marriage go south, she is MINE!
No, the only reason we haven't visited in recent years is due to lack of finances, unemployment and whatever other reason the world has thrown at us; coupled with the fact that she lives about NINE hours away. But this year, we were set on going. Come hell or high water or snow (which was a distinct possibility considering the nasty winter the Northeast has endured this year) - all of which, luckily, stayed away.
My company is generous in their holiday policy, which meant that I had both Good Friday and Easter Monday off. I decided to augment that long weekend by taking Thursday off. With absolutely NO intention of driving up to get Man-Child. I was planning on using that day to relax, pack, maybe throw in a little shopping. You know...some "me" time prior to spending four whole days with family - two of which would find me stuck in a van with four other people.
It didn't quite work out that way. Yes, I got some time to relax, pack and shop. But around 10:00 or 11:00 am I began to get antsy. So I texted Man-Child to inquire whether or not he had bought his bus ticket yet.
See, the plan was for Man-Child to come home on Thursday night, via the bus and my step-daughter and her friend were to drive in that evening; and then we would all leave early, early on Friday.
As usual, MC had put off buying his ticket - hoping to find a ride home. So in a fit of motherly love, I offered to drive up to get him - disregarding the fact that I was facing at least NINE hours in the car the next day. I neglected to mention to Hubby that I was doing this. Only because he would complain that I was spoiling "the boy." Which wasn't true at all. I was doing it to surprise Hubby since he would then not have to go out at 9:00 pm or so to fetch "the boy" from the bus station....and because I was bored.
Finally, we were all gathered in our tiny space - prepping for our long trip. It was a pleasant feeling having us all under one roof again. Although, I must admit, we were short on beds and not everyone was as comfortable as they could have been....but they survived.
And oh, how we laughed when Hubby proclaimed that we would be getting up at 4:00 am for a 5:00 am departure!
Knowing my step-daughter as I do I was surprised that we actually got out of the house around 6:00 am. If the truth be told, that was minor miracle. And not just due to her. There was no way in hell that I was getting out of bed before 5:00 am - so I didn't.
The drive up was long - oh so long! Somehow that nine hour drive turned into an ELEVEN hour drive. While it wasn't completely miserable (there was some hilarity along the way - which I can't even remember now, as we must have been punch-drunk by then) it wasn't a picnic either. It was determined that while Hubby had no problem with potty breaks - he had a problem with lunch breaks. It was also determined that he is a control freak; as in he refused to let ANY of the other four drivers in the car actually take the wheel.
The look on my Mother-In-Law's face when we arrived was well worth the long, long drive. She was ecstatic to see us.
Upon our arrival, after hugging and kissing us to death, she proceeded to stuff us full of food; as is her standard operating procedure.
I swear I gained five pounds that first night alone.
On Saturday, we headed into town to buy supplies. Did you know that in NE PA you can't buy wine in the grocery store?! No, you have to go to the liquor store for wine. Which means that you have to stock up for the weekend because, of course, the liquor store is closed on Sundays, which then brought some serious debate into how much should be bought.
My Brother-In-Law and his new girlfriend (we all loved her and gave BIL our blessings) showed up around 1:00 pm. And Mom declared it was cocktail hour and proceed to set out the antipasto. For the uninitiated, it's basically the food you eat prior to the meal. And no, it's NOT like appetizers. Generally, after having antipasto, I don't want the meal because I'm stuffed. So I try to limit my intake so as not to insult my Mother-In-Law by refusing dinner. Besides, there's NO WAY I'm going to miss one of her meals. That woman can cook!
And, as you might imagine, with cocktail hour starting so early, coupled with be stuffed full of food, I went to bed very early.
During our visit, it we were also reminded just how similar my Mother-In-Law and I are. Pajamas on by early evening? Check. Date Line on Friday night? Check. Crossword puzzles? Check. Our opinions about Man-Child's facial hair? Check.
It goes without saying that Hubby has married his mother. Minus the fabulous cook part.
Easter Sunday was almost an exact repeat of Saturday with the exception that most of us attended Mass with Mom. As Hubby declared he was exhausted (that's what you get when you hog the driving!) he begged off, so it was up to me to drive the rental van. Mom declared that I was an "excellent" driver and told me to call her if Hubby wouldn't let me drive on the way home. It's always nice to have validation.
Unlike Saturday, Mom decreed cocktail hour even earlier *sigh*. It was called earlier this time as dinner was scheduled for 2:00 so my Brother-In-Law and his new girlfriend could get back to Connecticut at a decent hour. As for dinner? It wasn't what I would consider a "traditional" Easter dinner. "Traditional" being ham, etc. No. We had lasagna. It was amazing and between that and the antipasto I was beyond stuffed.
Needless to say, Sunday saw me headed to bed even earlier. Which was actually a good thing as we had a long drive ahead of us on Monday.
Monday morning dawned bright and early and we visited for a bit more before packing up and heading out. Hubby actually let me drive for a while. I drove us all the way to Virginia without killing us (although a semi did almost sideswipe us; not my fault at all). After lunch, we switched drivers and Hubby once again took the helm. As I crawled into the passenger seat I said, "See? Shortlegs Magoo didn't do too bad." And, of course, this announcement was met with much hilarity. And for the remainder of the trip this is how I was addressed. *sigh*
The good news is that we actually made this trip in nine hours and NOT eleven (most likely due to my "excellent driving"). But I did tell Hubby that next time we make this trip, we need to plan to spend a couple more days. Two days of leisure sandwiched between two days of driving is just not enough.
All told, it was a successful trip. Not counting the fact that I probably gained at least 10 pounds over that long weekend; at least that what my clothes are telling me.
*sigh*
The problem with the drafts is this - most of what I write is in the minute, so if it sits for a while - waiting for me to edit or whatever - then I lose that sense of urgency to hit publish.
At any rate, Easter. Yeah, I know, that is SO eight days ago!
As I was saying...Easter. We decided this year to visit my Mother-In-Law. Something we haven't done in at least five years. And that's not because she is a problematic Mother-In-Law. No, on the contrary, she is a fabulous Mother-In-Law. In fact, she is so great that I have informed my husband on many, many occasions that should this marriage go south, she is MINE!
No, the only reason we haven't visited in recent years is due to lack of finances, unemployment and whatever other reason the world has thrown at us; coupled with the fact that she lives about NINE hours away. But this year, we were set on going. Come hell or high water or snow (which was a distinct possibility considering the nasty winter the Northeast has endured this year) - all of which, luckily, stayed away.
My company is generous in their holiday policy, which meant that I had both Good Friday and Easter Monday off. I decided to augment that long weekend by taking Thursday off. With absolutely NO intention of driving up to get Man-Child. I was planning on using that day to relax, pack, maybe throw in a little shopping. You know...some "me" time prior to spending four whole days with family - two of which would find me stuck in a van with four other people.
It didn't quite work out that way. Yes, I got some time to relax, pack and shop. But around 10:00 or 11:00 am I began to get antsy. So I texted Man-Child to inquire whether or not he had bought his bus ticket yet.
See, the plan was for Man-Child to come home on Thursday night, via the bus and my step-daughter and her friend were to drive in that evening; and then we would all leave early, early on Friday.
As usual, MC had put off buying his ticket - hoping to find a ride home. So in a fit of motherly love, I offered to drive up to get him - disregarding the fact that I was facing at least NINE hours in the car the next day. I neglected to mention to Hubby that I was doing this. Only because he would complain that I was spoiling "the boy." Which wasn't true at all. I was doing it to surprise Hubby since he would then not have to go out at 9:00 pm or so to fetch "the boy" from the bus station....and because I was bored.
Finally, we were all gathered in our tiny space - prepping for our long trip. It was a pleasant feeling having us all under one roof again. Although, I must admit, we were short on beds and not everyone was as comfortable as they could have been....but they survived.
And oh, how we laughed when Hubby proclaimed that we would be getting up at 4:00 am for a 5:00 am departure!
Knowing my step-daughter as I do I was surprised that we actually got out of the house around 6:00 am. If the truth be told, that was minor miracle. And not just due to her. There was no way in hell that I was getting out of bed before 5:00 am - so I didn't.
The drive up was long - oh so long! Somehow that nine hour drive turned into an ELEVEN hour drive. While it wasn't completely miserable (there was some hilarity along the way - which I can't even remember now, as we must have been punch-drunk by then) it wasn't a picnic either. It was determined that while Hubby had no problem with potty breaks - he had a problem with lunch breaks. It was also determined that he is a control freak; as in he refused to let ANY of the other four drivers in the car actually take the wheel.
The look on my Mother-In-Law's face when we arrived was well worth the long, long drive. She was ecstatic to see us.
Upon our arrival, after hugging and kissing us to death, she proceeded to stuff us full of food; as is her standard operating procedure.
I swear I gained five pounds that first night alone.
On Saturday, we headed into town to buy supplies. Did you know that in NE PA you can't buy wine in the grocery store?! No, you have to go to the liquor store for wine. Which means that you have to stock up for the weekend because, of course, the liquor store is closed on Sundays, which then brought some serious debate into how much should be bought.
My Brother-In-Law and his new girlfriend (we all loved her and gave BIL our blessings) showed up around 1:00 pm. And Mom declared it was cocktail hour and proceed to set out the antipasto. For the uninitiated, it's basically the food you eat prior to the meal. And no, it's NOT like appetizers. Generally, after having antipasto, I don't want the meal because I'm stuffed. So I try to limit my intake so as not to insult my Mother-In-Law by refusing dinner. Besides, there's NO WAY I'm going to miss one of her meals. That woman can cook!
And, as you might imagine, with cocktail hour starting so early, coupled with be stuffed full of food, I went to bed very early.
During our visit, it we were also reminded just how similar my Mother-In-Law and I are. Pajamas on by early evening? Check. Date Line on Friday night? Check. Crossword puzzles? Check. Our opinions about Man-Child's facial hair? Check.
It goes without saying that Hubby has married his mother. Minus the fabulous cook part.
Easter Sunday was almost an exact repeat of Saturday with the exception that most of us attended Mass with Mom. As Hubby declared he was exhausted (that's what you get when you hog the driving!) he begged off, so it was up to me to drive the rental van. Mom declared that I was an "excellent" driver and told me to call her if Hubby wouldn't let me drive on the way home. It's always nice to have validation.
Unlike Saturday, Mom decreed cocktail hour even earlier *sigh*. It was called earlier this time as dinner was scheduled for 2:00 so my Brother-In-Law and his new girlfriend could get back to Connecticut at a decent hour. As for dinner? It wasn't what I would consider a "traditional" Easter dinner. "Traditional" being ham, etc. No. We had lasagna. It was amazing and between that and the antipasto I was beyond stuffed.
Needless to say, Sunday saw me headed to bed even earlier. Which was actually a good thing as we had a long drive ahead of us on Monday.
Monday morning dawned bright and early and we visited for a bit more before packing up and heading out. Hubby actually let me drive for a while. I drove us all the way to Virginia without killing us (although a semi did almost sideswipe us; not my fault at all). After lunch, we switched drivers and Hubby once again took the helm. As I crawled into the passenger seat I said, "See? Shortlegs Magoo didn't do too bad." And, of course, this announcement was met with much hilarity. And for the remainder of the trip this is how I was addressed. *sigh*
The good news is that we actually made this trip in nine hours and NOT eleven (most likely due to my "excellent driving"). But I did tell Hubby that next time we make this trip, we need to plan to spend a couple more days. Two days of leisure sandwiched between two days of driving is just not enough.
All told, it was a successful trip. Not counting the fact that I probably gained at least 10 pounds over that long weekend; at least that what my clothes are telling me.
April 6, 2014
Divergent...a review
A couple of weeks ago, Man-Child was home for Spring Break we were at the local Barnes & Noble when he pointed out the book Divergent by Veronica Roth to me. He mentioned that it was coming to theaters soon and looked pretty good. So I picked it up and read the synopsis and was immediately intrigued.
Of course, after I purchased the book and we were in the car he snatched the book up and started to read it. As the one whose funds actually purchased the book, I was a little miffed but I let him have it. At any rate, he kept telling me how good it was and that I would really enjoy it. Surprisingly enough, he finished the book on our trip back up the mountain to his school and left it for me to read.
And he was right. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. So when he came home this weekend, I "called dibs" on some of his time (since his father and his friends seem to hog the majority of his time when he's home) - which he thought was hilarious. But I was dead serious. And although his father did hog him on Saturday, he was all mine today; most of which was spent driving but, for once, he actually stayed awake during the whole trip. And we had lunch together and went to see the movie.
And it was amazing! The film, for once, actually stayed fairly true to the book. A rarity.
It all boils down to this:
There was a war of some sort and the people left in what used to be known as Chicago have put up a huge fence. Then they broke out into five factions. Abnegation: The Selfless, Erudite: The Intelligent, Amity: The Peaceful, Candor: The Honest, Dauntless: The Brave.
Upon reaching the age of sixteen, you are given an aptitude test to see which faction you would best fit. You have the right to actually choose your faction but once you choose that's it; there is no going back. The motto being, "Faction before blood." And should it turn out that you chose wrong then you could end up being "factionless" - basically homeless. But whatever happens, you don't want to be labeled as "Divergent;" because that means you don't conform. And conformity must be stamped out.
The thought behind these factions is that this will create peace. That there will be no more wars.
As you and I both know, that is a fantasy. Human nature being what it is means that there is always a few that will make a grab for power at any given opportunity...no matter the cost.
I have yet to read the remaining two books in this series, but I will. And I have a feeling that I will enjoy them as much as I did the first.
Of course, after I purchased the book and we were in the car he snatched the book up and started to read it. As the one whose funds actually purchased the book, I was a little miffed but I let him have it. At any rate, he kept telling me how good it was and that I would really enjoy it. Surprisingly enough, he finished the book on our trip back up the mountain to his school and left it for me to read.
And he was right. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. So when he came home this weekend, I "called dibs" on some of his time (since his father and his friends seem to hog the majority of his time when he's home) - which he thought was hilarious. But I was dead serious. And although his father did hog him on Saturday, he was all mine today; most of which was spent driving but, for once, he actually stayed awake during the whole trip. And we had lunch together and went to see the movie.
And it was amazing! The film, for once, actually stayed fairly true to the book. A rarity.
It all boils down to this:
There was a war of some sort and the people left in what used to be known as Chicago have put up a huge fence. Then they broke out into five factions. Abnegation: The Selfless, Erudite: The Intelligent, Amity: The Peaceful, Candor: The Honest, Dauntless: The Brave.
Upon reaching the age of sixteen, you are given an aptitude test to see which faction you would best fit. You have the right to actually choose your faction but once you choose that's it; there is no going back. The motto being, "Faction before blood." And should it turn out that you chose wrong then you could end up being "factionless" - basically homeless. But whatever happens, you don't want to be labeled as "Divergent;" because that means you don't conform. And conformity must be stamped out.
The thought behind these factions is that this will create peace. That there will be no more wars.
As you and I both know, that is a fantasy. Human nature being what it is means that there is always a few that will make a grab for power at any given opportunity...no matter the cost.
I have yet to read the remaining two books in this series, but I will. And I have a feeling that I will enjoy them as much as I did the first.
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