I got trapped in a funk for, like, four hours Sunday.
I think I caught what's going around from either NB-C or Nat and started evaluating the intricacies of my life.
It's easy to throw your hands in the air and yell "I'm so done" when you're single, overweight and (almost) 30.
I think the bum mood started festering in me a day before when I went on a walk in downtown Cincinnati. I parked the car and walked along the river until I made it to the Purple People Bridge. Deciding to take a break at one of the sweeter scenic spots, I rang up my moms and pops to touch base. The convo rolled in the direction of my birthday (an effin' four months away now) and buying property and losing weight and my being single and a myriad of other things that can stress a girl out.
I am pretty happy with my accomplishments thus far. I have a great career (not just a j-o-b, mind you, but a career) and I live in a great neighborhood. I am blessed with wonderful family and friends. I even have the occasional day where I feel pretty (and witty and bright).
But let me share a little secret with you: I have days when I struggle with my insecurities. Days when Kate the Great isn't really all that Great.
Sunday I was struggling with the I Am So Alone factor. I realized in the evening that I likely never exchanged more than four words with anybody during the day. It's a strange feeling - when you feel so cut off from society in general, kind of like a recluse. I put in a call to D-Money and The Sisters but wasn't able to connect and for that moment in time I felt like God forgot me. Kind of like DeNiro in Taxi Driver - all bottled up with emotions and nobody to really connect with.
I spent some time stewing in my juices and then I did what I could to turn around my disposition. That, perhaps, is one of the most powerful discoveries I've made in the past few years: I have the power to change my mood. I know what my triggers are: indulgent food, indulgent moments at the bookstore, long walks and funny movies. It's a valuable tool that lots of people spend years struggling with, and I feel fortunate in knowing that nobody can make me truly feel better but myself.
There are lots of reasons why I need a man, but that's not one of them. And God made batteries for some of the other reasons, but I digress.
Anyway.
I know I have some great things going on in my world. I set up my 401K a few weeks ago because I realize my Fairy Godmother isn't going to magically appear and make my Golden Years all that golden.
I am looking forward to seeing my dearest friend this week and I am also really jazzed about my first ever Dave Matthews concert Tuesday night.
Oh, and my babies. My tomato plant is coming along beautifully. Little green orbs everywhere.
You reap what you sow, indeed.
Not so random, but I'm still musing.
Monday, July 31, 2006
One Liners
Saturday: The Purple People Bridge is a great place to sit and BS on the phone, and for the record that Bridge Climb thing really doesn't look like it's worth the money - I mean, really, you're only like 20 feet off the bridge (okay so this first one isn't really a one-liner but I get to make the rules here, don't I?)
Saturday: Carson Palmer looks good, and I'm not just talking about that Adonis smile and rockin' bod.
Saturday: Who knew Ben Affleck worked as a scruffed-out waiter in a cute, sophisticated wine bar in Hyde Park?
Sunday: I know of at least one Catholic church that needs to take a close look at some of the traditions and rules listed in Vatican II.
Sunday: Sitting in Ault park and watching the planes land at Lunken Airport is really cool.
Sunday: Aglamesis in Oakley is the best place to find some sweet relief from the sweltering temperatures this summer (my recommendation is a 1-2 combo of the Champagne Ice and Strawberry Ice).
Other random stuff:
The fam is packing up the Volvo and heading to Cincinnati next weekend. My parents are going house shopping and I am going to get to spend some time with my too-cool-for-school 19 year old sister. My plans: take her swimming, shopping and drinking at a party Saturday. I really am not a bad influence, I promise.
My pants are falling off me. I'm down three pounds and already I am already having to wear a belt, as I hate to be showing my whale tail.
Saturday: Carson Palmer looks good, and I'm not just talking about that Adonis smile and rockin' bod.
Saturday: Who knew Ben Affleck worked as a scruffed-out waiter in a cute, sophisticated wine bar in Hyde Park?
Sunday: I know of at least one Catholic church that needs to take a close look at some of the traditions and rules listed in Vatican II.
Sunday: Sitting in Ault park and watching the planes land at Lunken Airport is really cool.
Sunday: Aglamesis in Oakley is the best place to find some sweet relief from the sweltering temperatures this summer (my recommendation is a 1-2 combo of the Champagne Ice and Strawberry Ice).
Other random stuff:
The fam is packing up the Volvo and heading to Cincinnati next weekend. My parents are going house shopping and I am going to get to spend some time with my too-cool-for-school 19 year old sister. My plans: take her swimming, shopping and drinking at a party Saturday. I really am not a bad influence, I promise.
My pants are falling off me. I'm down three pounds and already I am already having to wear a belt, as I hate to be showing my whale tail.
This is not my ass, by the way (please take me to Jenny Craig if I'm ever in this dire situation). But it IS a picture that was taken in Paris, KY.
Hot.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Shock and Awe
That's exactly what I'm feeling after hearing the latest bombshell:
Cincinnati ranks 26th in the nation for single people.
The nice people at Forbes have upgraded their list of hotspots for the smart, sexy and single, and apparently the Queen City has more to offer than originally thought.
Our town gets a boost in rankings because of its nightlife (apparently #1 in the nation) and its cost of living (#9).
Columbus checks in a little better, 11th in the nation thanks to it's great culture, nightlife and affordability.
Other notes about the list: #1 Denver. I've heard great things about this town. A news manager there was chasing me down for a couple years and we could never sync up. I kind of like the idea of a casual, fun loving town where everybody wears The North Face and Birkenstocks.
#2 Boston. I would move to this city in a New York Minute. Beantown has so much to offer and I try to get there (or the Big Apple) every time I go home to Connecticut. I love the food, I love the history, I love the attitude. The Red Sox aren't bad, either.
#5 New York. So many people in the Five Burroughs say it's hard to find love, what with the millions and millions of people all jam packed there. I say love can be found anywhere. New York is exciting 24 hours a day, and my favorite places to go are the Village and SoHo. You never know who you're going to see.
#14 Minneapolis-St. Paul. These towns rock. A young romance flourished many many moons ago in the Twin Cities - 31 years later my parents are still happy together with three kids. I lived in Minneapolis for four years when I was a kid, and I really enjoyed the lakes and the sledding with my dad. My parents loved going to all kinds of restaurants and the Guthrie Theatre, an award winning cultural mecca in Minnesota.
#20 Providence. I always liked this town. Again - seafood, lots of water, and you are close to so many cool spots (Newport. Boston. Cape Cod. Martha's Vineyard. Nantucket. Block Island my favorite).
Cincinnati ranks 26th in the nation for single people.
The nice people at Forbes have upgraded their list of hotspots for the smart, sexy and single, and apparently the Queen City has more to offer than originally thought.
Our town gets a boost in rankings because of its nightlife (apparently #1 in the nation) and its cost of living (#9).
Columbus checks in a little better, 11th in the nation thanks to it's great culture, nightlife and affordability.
Other notes about the list: #1 Denver. I've heard great things about this town. A news manager there was chasing me down for a couple years and we could never sync up. I kind of like the idea of a casual, fun loving town where everybody wears The North Face and Birkenstocks.
#2 Boston. I would move to this city in a New York Minute. Beantown has so much to offer and I try to get there (or the Big Apple) every time I go home to Connecticut. I love the food, I love the history, I love the attitude. The Red Sox aren't bad, either.
#5 New York. So many people in the Five Burroughs say it's hard to find love, what with the millions and millions of people all jam packed there. I say love can be found anywhere. New York is exciting 24 hours a day, and my favorite places to go are the Village and SoHo. You never know who you're going to see.
#14 Minneapolis-St. Paul. These towns rock. A young romance flourished many many moons ago in the Twin Cities - 31 years later my parents are still happy together with three kids. I lived in Minneapolis for four years when I was a kid, and I really enjoyed the lakes and the sledding with my dad. My parents loved going to all kinds of restaurants and the Guthrie Theatre, an award winning cultural mecca in Minnesota.
#20 Providence. I always liked this town. Again - seafood, lots of water, and you are close to so many cool spots (Newport. Boston. Cape Cod. Martha's Vineyard. Nantucket. Block Island my favorite).
32 ounces is a big boost
Who knew that losing two pounds could do wonders for my morale?
I'm tweaking things here and there (my temporary sleep schedule is giving me an opportunity to do a few things differently) and it seems to be working.
Perhaps I'll be a hard body in time for my 30th birthday (about four months away, but who's counting?)
Mel Gibson (my newest friend in the DUI Arrest Club. Read this account for a far less flattering report) says pain is the precursor to change.
Maybe he's right.
I'm tweaking things here and there (my temporary sleep schedule is giving me an opportunity to do a few things differently) and it seems to be working.
Perhaps I'll be a hard body in time for my 30th birthday (about four months away, but who's counting?)
Mel Gibson (my newest friend in the DUI Arrest Club. Read this account for a far less flattering report) says pain is the precursor to change.
Maybe he's right.
Friday, July 28, 2006
I don't want to talk about The Biscuit right now...
... but I will say this:
Romance is a tricky thing.
When it erupts, it draws out feelings and desires that have sat dormant inside someone for so long. All of a sudden, you're overcome by a rush of bouncing synapses - little electrical shocks that touch and tingle every single cell of your being.
Your brain registers a catalog of smells, textures and tastes and chronicles them with a name and a face and a place in time you will never forget in all your life.
To test the water of that thing called romance is pretty much like throwing yourself under the bus. You just pray you're going to survive this most sensual of moments without getting ugly, without feeling too much pain. Without letting a little bit of you die inside.
It's a challenge that can almost literally tear you apart.
Do you sit there, dormant, untouched, unopened to the possibilities of love? Or do you let someone crack open that stone-hard muscled shell around your heart, so hard to protect your very soul?
It's easy to take the safe route. To write things off and go the path you are most in control of. In the safe, smooth waters you can be sure your heart will live to beat another day. But you'll be alone.
If you choose to take a chance then you are gambling on the possibility that you'll discover the most euphoric sense of being. True Love. A state of existence that has the potential to pull out the best two people have to offer in life.
With each new romance, I throw every shred of myself into the thought of what could be.
So far, every new romance has turned into nothing but an old heartbreak. But I'm keeping the hope burning inside, because I know I have so much to offer someone.
And I know someday fate is going to get it right.
Romance is a tricky thing.
When it erupts, it draws out feelings and desires that have sat dormant inside someone for so long. All of a sudden, you're overcome by a rush of bouncing synapses - little electrical shocks that touch and tingle every single cell of your being.
Your brain registers a catalog of smells, textures and tastes and chronicles them with a name and a face and a place in time you will never forget in all your life.
To test the water of that thing called romance is pretty much like throwing yourself under the bus. You just pray you're going to survive this most sensual of moments without getting ugly, without feeling too much pain. Without letting a little bit of you die inside.
It's a challenge that can almost literally tear you apart.
Do you sit there, dormant, untouched, unopened to the possibilities of love? Or do you let someone crack open that stone-hard muscled shell around your heart, so hard to protect your very soul?
It's easy to take the safe route. To write things off and go the path you are most in control of. In the safe, smooth waters you can be sure your heart will live to beat another day. But you'll be alone.
If you choose to take a chance then you are gambling on the possibility that you'll discover the most euphoric sense of being. True Love. A state of existence that has the potential to pull out the best two people have to offer in life.
With each new romance, I throw every shred of myself into the thought of what could be.
So far, every new romance has turned into nothing but an old heartbreak. But I'm keeping the hope burning inside, because I know I have so much to offer someone.
And I know someday fate is going to get it right.
Back To The Whole Shoes Thing
Chris Glass posted a link to this most hilarious piece on You Tube.
D-Money, Big Blue Blood, GOP Big Wig, NB-C and Nat, I think you all will especially enjoy it.
Chris, that piece was a great way to start my weekend. Much thanks!
While on You Tube you might want to check out these other great videos:
I love it when this guy rips his pants off and smells his armpits.
This video is so wrong, but I loved it so much. Jesus as a Disco Star?
Some things on You Tube are like a car wreck, you don't want to watch but you can't turn away.
I can't believe Hasselhoff looks like one of my college boyfriends, Richie Walsh. Cheese alert.
If President Bush sees this he is going to want to open a cabinet dedicated to teaching people around the world how to ride bikes.
D-Money, Big Blue Blood, GOP Big Wig, NB-C and Nat, I think you all will especially enjoy it.
Chris, that piece was a great way to start my weekend. Much thanks!
While on You Tube you might want to check out these other great videos:
I love it when this guy rips his pants off and smells his armpits.
This video is so wrong, but I loved it so much. Jesus as a Disco Star?
Some things on You Tube are like a car wreck, you don't want to watch but you can't turn away.
I can't believe Hasselhoff looks like one of my college boyfriends, Richie Walsh. Cheese alert.
If President Bush sees this he is going to want to open a cabinet dedicated to teaching people around the world how to ride bikes.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
In Her Shoes
I may soon need to buy another pair of sexy shoes.
I saw that movie "In Her Shoes" last night and totally identified with the character of Toni Collette.
Collette and Cameron Diaz in In Her Shoes. Photo courtesy of Yahoo
“Clothes never look any good, food just makes me fat. Shoes always fit.”
These are the new objects of my affection. I have put them on standby for a date in my closet.
FRIDAY July 28th update: Nine West.com has the shoes on sale. The red pair (the ones I want, dammit) are 20 bucks more than the black. Discrimination, I say!
I saw that movie "In Her Shoes" last night and totally identified with the character of Toni Collette.
Collette and Cameron Diaz in In Her Shoes. Photo courtesy of Yahoo“Clothes never look any good, food just makes me fat. Shoes always fit.”
These are the new objects of my affection. I have put them on standby for a date in my closet.FRIDAY July 28th update: Nine West.com has the shoes on sale. The red pair (the ones I want, dammit) are 20 bucks more than the black. Discrimination, I say!
Cake for Breakfast and Other Princessisms
It's so hard living the good life.
You know, the life where everything comes easy and everything turns out your way. Just because you're one of the chosen ones.
Okay, so my life isn't really as smooth as other folks. My parents refuse to wave a magic wand and make it all better to satisfy my whims and wipe away all my mistakes.
But I must admit, my life is still pretty good, even when it's not.
This morning I started a temporary, one month shift change at work thanks to a shortage of producers on the roster. For the next few weeks I'll be heading out to work under the cover of night, rolling in to the office around one in the morning.
Most people might complain about the topsy turvy shift in their work schedule, but I am a pretty positive person and am discovering all kinds of good things about this temporary change.
The first one is the most obvious: Friday happy hours at noon. My morning show cronies and I are already cooking up our first of a month long of afternoon outings at the watering hole. There's something so satisfying about sipping on a cold dollar draft while the rest of the world is slaving away at work.
I also love the camaraderie that such a funky shift can foster. My morning crew greeted me with German chocolate cake in the control room this morning. You never know what cool treats people will bring in on the Graveyard Shift, and that's always sure to put a smile on my face.
The Morning Show shift means you have a pass to sleep whenever you want to. I can lay in bed all afternoon, catching glimpses of Marlena and John Black on Days of our Lives in between snores. Sometimes I like to catch my afternoon naps in a nearby park. It's a twofer: I get some sun and I get some sleep all at the same time.
I was a better Gym Bunny when I worked the morning show. My Gold's Gym is never crowded in the afternoon and I somehow found the time to sweat like a mean bitch (gosh, I haven't used that phrase in a while) when I was routinely working the overnight shift. Maybe this temporary shift will do wonders for my routine of reps and cardio training.
Okay, okay. So maybe I am really looking at this situation with rose colored glasses. Granted, I always try to look at things with a "glass half full" perspective, but the truth is there are lots of things I'm going to miss out on because of this temporary change. I'll have a tough time enjoying dinner with friends in the evening. I'll probably miss out on night time baseball games (though there are plans to hit a business person's special in August) and I won't be able to visit my other week night hot spots around town.
Such are the trade offs for having an excuse to drink in the afternoons...
You know, the life where everything comes easy and everything turns out your way. Just because you're one of the chosen ones.
Okay, so my life isn't really as smooth as other folks. My parents refuse to wave a magic wand and make it all better to satisfy my whims and wipe away all my mistakes.
But I must admit, my life is still pretty good, even when it's not.
This morning I started a temporary, one month shift change at work thanks to a shortage of producers on the roster. For the next few weeks I'll be heading out to work under the cover of night, rolling in to the office around one in the morning.
Most people might complain about the topsy turvy shift in their work schedule, but I am a pretty positive person and am discovering all kinds of good things about this temporary change.
The first one is the most obvious: Friday happy hours at noon. My morning show cronies and I are already cooking up our first of a month long of afternoon outings at the watering hole. There's something so satisfying about sipping on a cold dollar draft while the rest of the world is slaving away at work.
I also love the camaraderie that such a funky shift can foster. My morning crew greeted me with German chocolate cake in the control room this morning. You never know what cool treats people will bring in on the Graveyard Shift, and that's always sure to put a smile on my face.
The Morning Show shift means you have a pass to sleep whenever you want to. I can lay in bed all afternoon, catching glimpses of Marlena and John Black on Days of our Lives in between snores. Sometimes I like to catch my afternoon naps in a nearby park. It's a twofer: I get some sun and I get some sleep all at the same time.
I was a better Gym Bunny when I worked the morning show. My Gold's Gym is never crowded in the afternoon and I somehow found the time to sweat like a mean bitch (gosh, I haven't used that phrase in a while) when I was routinely working the overnight shift. Maybe this temporary shift will do wonders for my routine of reps and cardio training.
Okay, okay. So maybe I am really looking at this situation with rose colored glasses. Granted, I always try to look at things with a "glass half full" perspective, but the truth is there are lots of things I'm going to miss out on because of this temporary change. I'll have a tough time enjoying dinner with friends in the evening. I'll probably miss out on night time baseball games (though there are plans to hit a business person's special in August) and I won't be able to visit my other week night hot spots around town.
Such are the trade offs for having an excuse to drink in the afternoons...
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Pay It Forward
This is my favorite news story of the week so far.
A homeless man from Detroit is finding out that it pays to be honest.
Charles Moore, who found and turned in nearly $21,000 worth of U.S. savings bonds in the trash, has received rewards worth $4,000, The Detroit News reported Tuesday.
Moore, 59, was originally given $100 from the son of the deceased bond owner, but residents here and in other states decided that wasn't enough.
A Belleville man sent him eight trash bags full of bottle returns and a bowl of coins. Three people pledged a combined $2,500, while two Troy businessmen donated $1,200, a shopping spree at a men's clothing store and a lead on a job.
I was just talking with (or messaging with, I should say) Nat about good deeds and kindness and paying things forward and how that's really the way we leave our mark on the world. Forget the fancy cars, the big hyphenated job titles and the granite countertops.
None of that stuff can be shoved in the coffin with us.
The only thing we take with us to the Pearly Gates is our legacy, I just hope my family is proud of mine when I'm gone.
A homeless man from Detroit is finding out that it pays to be honest.
Charles Moore, who found and turned in nearly $21,000 worth of U.S. savings bonds in the trash, has received rewards worth $4,000, The Detroit News reported Tuesday.
Moore, 59, was originally given $100 from the son of the deceased bond owner, but residents here and in other states decided that wasn't enough.
A Belleville man sent him eight trash bags full of bottle returns and a bowl of coins. Three people pledged a combined $2,500, while two Troy businessmen donated $1,200, a shopping spree at a men's clothing store and a lead on a job.
I was just talking with (or messaging with, I should say) Nat about good deeds and kindness and paying things forward and how that's really the way we leave our mark on the world. Forget the fancy cars, the big hyphenated job titles and the granite countertops.
None of that stuff can be shoved in the coffin with us.
The only thing we take with us to the Pearly Gates is our legacy, I just hope my family is proud of mine when I'm gone.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Lunch Time Indigestion
Me thinks The Biscuit has grown cold.
I want to chew on this one a while before I spit anything more out...
I want to chew on this one a while before I spit anything more out...
Monday, July 24, 2006
PS: I'm Bringin' Sexy Back
This song is tight.
I just heard it while running out to get some cash.
Justin Timberlake is so money...
GOP Big Wig, we'll have have to go see him again in concert (yes, again) when he makes it to Cincinnatah.
Finally... something I can shake my ass to.
I just heard it while running out to get some cash.
Justin Timberlake is so money...
GOP Big Wig, we'll have have to go see him again in concert (yes, again) when he makes it to Cincinnatah.
Finally... something I can shake my ass to.
Nostalgia
I recently started experiencing these moments that make me flash back to my childhood.
Like this Saturday, when I bought a half gallon of chocolate milk. You probably think that's no big deal, but to me it was a major step back into the kiddy pool. You see, I am unequivocally NOT a chocolate milk drinker. It has way too many calories and is a bit thick for my taste. The drink does remind me of my days as a little girl, when milk with Hershey's syrup was a special treat. Only if we finished our first glass of milk.
I was strolling down the aisles of my neighborhood Kroger and found myself lured to the milk case, literally salivating over the idea of a tall drink of chocolate milk.
Who knew?
I have also taken up the habit of long walks in the neighborhood. Saturday morning I woke up at 7:30 and slid in to my yoga pants and tennis shoes for a brisk stroll. I like looking at all the houses, some with gingerbread trim - others with stained glass, and I wonder whether the people inside are living the dreams they hatched so many moons ago. Are they happy with their own corner of the world? With the purple impatiens in the front yard and the hammock on the back patio? What else could they be yearning for? What is my own life missing?
I stared intently at the cracks and cement moving below my feet and noticed the remnants of a cicada body. I kind of felt bad for the little guy, dead and exposed while the rest of his brood stayed safe below the surface of the earth. I kind of identified with the cicada... Sometimes I feel like I'm not keeping up with the rest of the Gen X. pack, what with everybody else buying homes and tying knots and birthing babies. Sometimes I get bummed about the orbit my life is spinning, other times I'm quite content with my journey.
Retail Therapy has a way of making everything feel better, doesn't it?
Yesterday I took a spin in the neighborhood Gap and made a score on some beautiful skirts. They're kind of old fashioned in that they are very loose and full, and hit just (and I mean just) above the knee. The skirts kind of remind me of dresses I used to wear when I was a little girl. I'd wear these Polly Flinders dresses (which are apparently vintage now) that had all kinds of smocking on them and were really full on the bottom. My youngest sister loved to stand above the air vents in these dresses, ballooning her dress up until she'd say she looked like a blueberry.
Today I kind of feel like my ass looks like a pink "blueberry."
I'm really getting on the salad bandwagon. Last night I was so happy with a salad that included mixed field greens, pine nuts and grated parmigiano reggiano. So simple with a balsamic vinaigrette.
God, remember the day when we could eat anything we wanted?
Like this Saturday, when I bought a half gallon of chocolate milk. You probably think that's no big deal, but to me it was a major step back into the kiddy pool. You see, I am unequivocally NOT a chocolate milk drinker. It has way too many calories and is a bit thick for my taste. The drink does remind me of my days as a little girl, when milk with Hershey's syrup was a special treat. Only if we finished our first glass of milk.
I was strolling down the aisles of my neighborhood Kroger and found myself lured to the milk case, literally salivating over the idea of a tall drink of chocolate milk.
Who knew?
I have also taken up the habit of long walks in the neighborhood. Saturday morning I woke up at 7:30 and slid in to my yoga pants and tennis shoes for a brisk stroll. I like looking at all the houses, some with gingerbread trim - others with stained glass, and I wonder whether the people inside are living the dreams they hatched so many moons ago. Are they happy with their own corner of the world? With the purple impatiens in the front yard and the hammock on the back patio? What else could they be yearning for? What is my own life missing?
I stared intently at the cracks and cement moving below my feet and noticed the remnants of a cicada body. I kind of felt bad for the little guy, dead and exposed while the rest of his brood stayed safe below the surface of the earth. I kind of identified with the cicada... Sometimes I feel like I'm not keeping up with the rest of the Gen X. pack, what with everybody else buying homes and tying knots and birthing babies. Sometimes I get bummed about the orbit my life is spinning, other times I'm quite content with my journey.
Retail Therapy has a way of making everything feel better, doesn't it?
Yesterday I took a spin in the neighborhood Gap and made a score on some beautiful skirts. They're kind of old fashioned in that they are very loose and full, and hit just (and I mean just) above the knee. The skirts kind of remind me of dresses I used to wear when I was a little girl. I'd wear these Polly Flinders dresses (which are apparently vintage now) that had all kinds of smocking on them and were really full on the bottom. My youngest sister loved to stand above the air vents in these dresses, ballooning her dress up until she'd say she looked like a blueberry.
Today I kind of feel like my ass looks like a pink "blueberry."
I'm really getting on the salad bandwagon. Last night I was so happy with a salad that included mixed field greens, pine nuts and grated parmigiano reggiano. So simple with a balsamic vinaigrette.
God, remember the day when we could eat anything we wanted?
Sunday, July 23, 2006
T Minus 9 Days And Counting
Dave and I will finally be together (oh, and I can't wait to see you, too, D-Money)
I will go in this way
And I'll find my own way out
I won't tell you to stay
But im coming to much more...Me
all at once the ghosts come back
Reeling in your mind
Oh what if they came in crashing
used to play for all that loneliness that nobody
notices now
Oh begging slow
I'm coming here....., yeahah ohoh
I'm waiting
I wanted to stay
I wanted to play
I wanted to love you
(P.S. Anybody notice how the DMB tour stop before Cincinnati is in Hartford? Coincidence? Perhaps I am taking him to meet the parents?)
I will go in this way
And I'll find my own way out
I won't tell you to stay
But im coming to much more...Me
all at once the ghosts come back
Reeling in your mind
Oh what if they came in crashing
used to play for all that loneliness that nobody
notices now
Oh begging slow
I'm coming here....., yeahah ohoh
I'm waiting
I wanted to stay
I wanted to play
I wanted to love you
(P.S. Anybody notice how the DMB tour stop before Cincinnati is in Hartford? Coincidence? Perhaps I am taking him to meet the parents?)
Technical Blogger Question
My blog is about to celebrate a birthday, and there's no better way to ring in the Terrible Twos than with a nice looking skin (that means a blog design layout for all you newbies)?
Anyone have any suggestions on a good skin designer? I don't want anything too crazy (though I think I'd like to keep my profile pic, what with it's pretty pink wig and all)...
Kisses,
Kate
Anyone have any suggestions on a good skin designer? I don't want anything too crazy (though I think I'd like to keep my profile pic, what with it's pretty pink wig and all)...
Kisses,
Kate
Lazy Day Sunday
Random dope:
Sometimes I really hate my big boobs. They are like a catch-all for everything that makes its way into my mouth. Case in point: I spend less than 24 hours in a different television market and take along three shirts for the trip. Two of them come back to Cincinnati with ketchup on them. Both stains acquired during different meals. Thank God for stain stick and other tricks.
God, can I tell you how much I miss Lexington? Don't get me wrong - I am having a blast in Cincinnati and probably wouldn't want to live anywhere else in my life right now. But there's something about a town where basically everybody is cheering for the same team (Go Big Blue!). I'm also a big fan of all the running, white fences everywhere and the subtle genteel manner of the Bluegrass. God, I haven't been down there since April...
I guess Northern Kentucky's a pretty good compromise. (P.S. Wildcat Fans: This piece on You Tube makes me cry. 'Cause I Bleed Blue!)
My stomach is telling me I should go on a hunger strike. The hostess of Saturday night's fete really outdid herself. The morning trip for biscuits and gravy at Bob Evans was one meal I should have skipped, what with a night full of food and drink... though I don't know about those Black and Blue shots (ps. When I was looking for the recipe I found a couple others I'd like to try. Bin Laden? Bitches From Hell? Where do people make this shit up?)
I hate it when my insecurities bitch slap the confidence right out of me. Sometimes I have a tough time telling those voices in my head to shut the F up, and instead all those little worries gnaw at me until I am completely turned around inside out. Doubt is such a dangerous, self destructive weapon. I am temporarily fixated with a worry that really doesn't exist (could I be any more cryptic?) and need to just put it out of my head.
As Stuart Smalley says: I deserve good things. I am entitled to my share of happiness. I refuse to beat myself up. I am attractive person. I am fun to be with. I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and, doggonit, people like me!
Oh, Lord. How pathetic am I? Time to go read the paper...
Sometimes I really hate my big boobs. They are like a catch-all for everything that makes its way into my mouth. Case in point: I spend less than 24 hours in a different television market and take along three shirts for the trip. Two of them come back to Cincinnati with ketchup on them. Both stains acquired during different meals. Thank God for stain stick and other tricks.
God, can I tell you how much I miss Lexington? Don't get me wrong - I am having a blast in Cincinnati and probably wouldn't want to live anywhere else in my life right now. But there's something about a town where basically everybody is cheering for the same team (Go Big Blue!). I'm also a big fan of all the running, white fences everywhere and the subtle genteel manner of the Bluegrass. God, I haven't been down there since April...
I guess Northern Kentucky's a pretty good compromise. (P.S. Wildcat Fans: This piece on You Tube makes me cry. 'Cause I Bleed Blue!)
My stomach is telling me I should go on a hunger strike. The hostess of Saturday night's fete really outdid herself. The morning trip for biscuits and gravy at Bob Evans was one meal I should have skipped, what with a night full of food and drink... though I don't know about those Black and Blue shots (ps. When I was looking for the recipe I found a couple others I'd like to try. Bin Laden? Bitches From Hell? Where do people make this shit up?)
I hate it when my insecurities bitch slap the confidence right out of me. Sometimes I have a tough time telling those voices in my head to shut the F up, and instead all those little worries gnaw at me until I am completely turned around inside out. Doubt is such a dangerous, self destructive weapon. I am temporarily fixated with a worry that really doesn't exist (could I be any more cryptic?) and need to just put it out of my head.
As Stuart Smalley says: I deserve good things. I am entitled to my share of happiness. I refuse to beat myself up. I am attractive person. I am fun to be with. I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and, doggonit, people like me!
Oh, Lord. How pathetic am I? Time to go read the paper...
Friday, July 21, 2006
Mideast Fighting
I don't know how long this clip will be available from Al Jazeera, but it is worth a look if still available.
The woman speaking is an Arab-American psychologist with some interesting thoughts on why we are seeing the conflicts in the Middle East.
The clip is a bit old (February 2006) but it is still very relevant.
The woman speaking is an Arab-American psychologist with some interesting thoughts on why we are seeing the conflicts in the Middle East.
The clip is a bit old (February 2006) but it is still very relevant.
Staples, 70s Shorts and a Smokin' Mom
Everyone including Kate the Great
was in happy spirits after a trip to the
Kenton County Fair.
was in happy spirits after a trip to the
Kenton County Fair.
I've already talked at length about how there's nothing I enjoy more than some good people watching. I fully intend on writing a couple novels before I'm dead and buried, and I'm always looking for some colorful inspiration I can tuck into my bra for a later date.
The Kenton County Fair is a breeding ground for characters.
Our group set out in search of a good ol' bull riding contest, complete with some hot studs (the cowboys I mean, not the animals). My fellow companions (Big Blue Blood, Lenna Lou and The Element) made it to the fair and quickly realized we were the most polished city slickers in the bunch, even though the fair was, like, less than 10 miles from Downtown Cincinnati.
It was quite evident that many of these people fell out of a trailer park.
We meandered our way towards the rides area to get an armband and we encountered our first of the strangest group of carnies I have ever seen. The dude who was in charge of putting on my armband had skin that looked like leather tanned to the color of dark coffee. What's worse, a bit of panic ran through my veins when I noticed he had a huge gash on his scalp running along the hairline that was held together with four industrial size staples.
I immediately wondered what ride he was on to get that battle wound.
We made it to The Scrambler and saw this woman who, I am sad to admit, made me feel wonderful about my body image. She looked like she was about 25 or so, greasy blond hair and a kid in tow. This woman was pretty large in size and unfortunately was not wearing an outfit flattering for her form. Picture a big white t-shirt and then navy terry cloth running shirts a la the 1970s when every chick looked good wearing tiny, tiny shorts in the summertime.
Except this girl.
The woman's thighs practically slapped and waved with each step away from the ride. She bent over to tie her child's shoes and we all quickly turned away with grimaces, painfully avoiding what we already glimpsed: the sight of her nether body swallowing up the bit of terry cloth between her legs.
Hey
. If I had to see it, then I'm going to punish the rest of you with the same burning image.We made it on The Scrambler and pretty much regretted the decision as soon as the ride got in full swing. With every complete revolution, we flew out to the edge - just inches away from a fence, wondering whether some crappy bolt would fly off sending us sailing into an amusement tragedy.
We made it off the ride safely (thanks to my saying a couple Hail Marys) and walked on over to get some roasted corn and onion rings. As guilty as I felt about chowing down on so many fatty foods, I have to say I realized quickly I've got quite a ways to go to catch up to the curvy size of many ladies in the Kenton Co. area.
Apparently men there like their women thick.
Anyway.
We saw one such curvy lady sucking on a cigarette. At first glance, I grouped her in with the rest of the rubinesque crowd. It wasn't until my friends pointed out this lady was eating, and apparently smoking for two.
Hey, I guess if it's good enough for mom, then it's good enough for baby, right?
We left the fair completely fulfilled (after checking out the half-assed 4-H projects) with our annual dose of Redneck.
Y'all come back now, ya hear?
Those Crazy Carnies
Stay tuned later today for a dude with some ugly staples in his head...
A pregnant mom smoking...
And a woman whose own body was eating her shorts.
Seriously, the Kenton County Fair was a blast.
A pregnant mom smoking...
And a woman whose own body was eating her shorts.
Seriously, the Kenton County Fair was a blast.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Get To Know Me Better
| You are 67% Sagittarius |
 |
| You Are a Fun Girl! |
 You are all about having fun - and you don't need to drink to have a good time Sure, you've thrown back more than a few every so often But getting totally stupid and wasted is not your style You're the life of the party, by keeping everyone laughing and smiling |
| If He Asks You Out Again, Say Yes |
 This guy is certainly worth getting to know better... and from the signals he's sending, he's pretty interested in you too. While you're waiting for him to ask you out: Think about what you did to make the date go well. Was it your witty banter? Your coy attitude? Whatever it was, keep at it... you've got him hooked To keep having great dates with this guy: Don't throw your first date strategies out the window. Look great, keep it fun, and he'll continue to call. |
| You Are 60% Independent |
 Overall, you're a pretty independent woman. You don't follow trends just to fit in. You've got your own cool thing going on, though you sometimes still care too much about what other's think. |
| You Are a Normal Girl |
 You are 50% Good and 50% Bad Sure you've pulled some bad girl stunts in your past. But these days, you're (mostly) a good girl. |
Martha Stewart Who?
This is what I will be spending my Wednesday night doing:
This is a Barbie doll cake that I will be slaving away in my kitchen making tonight.
I don't know that mine will be so tall (nor do I believe my icing job will be so elaborate).
I've always considered myself a great baker/chef, but this cake might be my biggest culinary challenge so far.
I've conquered homemade pie crust, I can do a mean marinaded London Broil and my scones are the bomb. Hopefully my Barbie Cake is a hit, too.
This is a Barbie doll cake that I will be slaving away in my kitchen making tonight.
I don't know that mine will be so tall (nor do I believe my icing job will be so elaborate).
I've always considered myself a great baker/chef, but this cake might be my biggest culinary challenge so far.
I've conquered homemade pie crust, I can do a mean marinaded London Broil and my scones are the bomb. Hopefully my Barbie Cake is a hit, too.
Tuesday's Top Ten (A Day Late)
The Top Ten Things Kate Loves About A Great Date
10. That point in the date when he reaches for her hand.
9. The development of what becomes an inside joke.
8. The anticipation and eventual big deliver on a great kiss.
7. When he mentions the possibility of a future date before the evening is even over.
6. How something as simple as a wink from Kate can bring on such an amused reaction.
5. That Kate's date lets her know she's still cute, even when she's not all gussied up.
4. The discovery that chivalry is not dead.
3. When Kate's date gives her a compliment that indicates she might just be a little special to him.
2. The witty banter and silly teasing that Kate and her date can toss out. A little ribbing never hurt anyone, right?
1. The moment when Kate realizes she has never been more comfortable with a man.
10. That point in the date when he reaches for her hand.
9. The development of what becomes an inside joke.
8. The anticipation and eventual big deliver on a great kiss.
7. When he mentions the possibility of a future date before the evening is even over.
6. How something as simple as a wink from Kate can bring on such an amused reaction.
5. That Kate's date lets her know she's still cute, even when she's not all gussied up.
4. The discovery that chivalry is not dead.
3. When Kate's date gives her a compliment that indicates she might just be a little special to him.
2. The witty banter and silly teasing that Kate and her date can toss out. A little ribbing never hurt anyone, right?
1. The moment when Kate realizes she has never been more comfortable with a man.
Monday, July 17, 2006
This One Is A No Brainer
Today our nation's senators debated the possibility of funneling federal money into embryonic stem cell research.
Three bills are at issue: one that would ixnay President Bush's bans on the breakthrough research. The other two bills would lay down parameters for the possibility of federal spending.
The Senate is expected to pass the first measure, but GWB has already indicated he would use his veto power (a first for the President) to cancel out the vote.
The house could trump that veto as soon as Wednesday, but it really is a mystery whether there are enough people on board to make for a 2/3 majority overriding the veto.
Many, many people in the medical community are pushing for the bill.
Embryonic stem cell research is a medical mystery we need to unravel. My family was touched by a brain tumor several years ago. The situation was a difficult, painful family crisis that led to months and months of rehabilitation and years of readjusting after surgery.
Stem cell research may be the missing link, the absent puzzle piece that could open the door to so many cures and other medical remedies.
Who knows what could be found through embryonic stem cell research. The cure for cancer? Sure, why not. A solution to help paralyzed people walk? Maybe, you never know.
It certainly is worth a try.
Three bills are at issue: one that would ixnay President Bush's bans on the breakthrough research. The other two bills would lay down parameters for the possibility of federal spending.
The Senate is expected to pass the first measure, but GWB has already indicated he would use his veto power (a first for the President) to cancel out the vote.
The house could trump that veto as soon as Wednesday, but it really is a mystery whether there are enough people on board to make for a 2/3 majority overriding the veto.
Many, many people in the medical community are pushing for the bill.
Embryonic stem cell research is a medical mystery we need to unravel. My family was touched by a brain tumor several years ago. The situation was a difficult, painful family crisis that led to months and months of rehabilitation and years of readjusting after surgery.
Stem cell research may be the missing link, the absent puzzle piece that could open the door to so many cures and other medical remedies.
Who knows what could be found through embryonic stem cell research. The cure for cancer? Sure, why not. A solution to help paralyzed people walk? Maybe, you never know.
It certainly is worth a try.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Operetto
My most recent preocupation: singing rap songs like an opera star.
Lately I've been treating my coworkers with my special musical stylings, belting out my big bravado much like the crazy music teacher from SNL.
They see me rollin'
They hatin'
Patrollin' and try'n to catch me ridin dirty
My musics so loud
I'm swangin'
They hopin' that they gone catch me ridin dirty
Good times...
Lately I've been treating my coworkers with my special musical stylings, belting out my big bravado much like the crazy music teacher from SNL.
They see me rollin'
They hatin'
Patrollin' and try'n to catch me ridin dirty
My musics so loud
I'm swangin'
They hopin' that they gone catch me ridin dirty
Good times...
Friday, July 14, 2006
I Want Action
Nuggets from the Poison/Cinderella concert:
Where the hell do all these people come from? Some of them look like they climbed out of a Sunday Night Movie based on the Amy Fisher story starring Alyssa Milano circa 1993, complete with the sleeveless, unbuttoned flannel shirts, wifebeater tanks and stonewash. Other Poison fans apparently are quite infatuated with their hair crimpers. That, or perhaps the Hamilton Wal-Mart is offering a two-fer deal on hair crimpers and stirrup pants. Either way, somebody needs to send out the all-call memo that the 80s and 90s are over.
Is Riverbend trying a new swimming pool/peeing facility combo concept? The bathroom floor was literally covered with half an inch of water. It's truly disgusting when you have to bend down to roll your jeans up to use the facilities. I also discerned quite quickly these particular toilets are the kind where you must enact the Hover Treaty, as cleanliness is quite negotiable on the seats. As they say in Lexington: gonorrhea is not a pretty flower.
While using the God-forsaken bathrooms at Riverbend, I noticed a shiny quarter lying on the ground beneath said layer of scummy water. Yes, I picked it up and put it in my pocket. Yes, I washed my hands afterwards. Yes, I gave it to the beer guy about 3.7 minutes after finding it. Yes, I told him where I found it after I gave it to him. Yes, I laughed after the transaction.
You never know who you'll see at a Poison concert. I happened to even spy my handsome friend, The Biscuit, at the concert. I was caught off guard the first time I saw him, only because it was pretty much right after I got there and I wasn't really expecting to run in to him. I knew The Biscuit was going to be among the massive throng of people there, but since my tickets were last minute I didn't want to be all "Hi" and up in his grill, yo, because I was afraid he'd think I was stalking him or something.
God, I can be such a girl sometimes.
Speaking of girls, The Biscuit was with one. I wasn't worried though because he seems pretty trustworthy and not so much like the kind of player I have addressed on this blog previously. I must admit, though, I did watch The Biscuit to see if he would hold this chick's hand or demonstrate some other kind of sign of intimacy. Okay, so I get a bit paranoid at times. Call it the Bridget Jones syndrome...
The Biscuit called me up after the concert and called me out - saying he saw me and he knew I saw him and "Why didn't you say hello?" and basically I told him I didn't want to crash his party and disturb his time with his friend. I considered it a respectful move, but I don't know if he felt dissed or something. Que sera. I am really jazzed about seeing him next Tuesday...
Wait.
Since when did this become a post about The Biscuit? Back to the Poison concert...
All in all, everyone appeared to have a good time. Some guy told me I was hot (which really makes me question his tastes and/or judgment because I basically looked like an unpretty sweatbeast), I drank a couple (okay, maybe more than a couple) beers and had a few laughs with some good friends.
Next time I go see Poison, I definitely plan to dress a little more White-Trashy.
Where the hell do all these people come from? Some of them look like they climbed out of a Sunday Night Movie based on the Amy Fisher story starring Alyssa Milano circa 1993, complete with the sleeveless, unbuttoned flannel shirts, wifebeater tanks and stonewash. Other Poison fans apparently are quite infatuated with their hair crimpers. That, or perhaps the Hamilton Wal-Mart is offering a two-fer deal on hair crimpers and stirrup pants. Either way, somebody needs to send out the all-call memo that the 80s and 90s are over.
Is Riverbend trying a new swimming pool/peeing facility combo concept? The bathroom floor was literally covered with half an inch of water. It's truly disgusting when you have to bend down to roll your jeans up to use the facilities. I also discerned quite quickly these particular toilets are the kind where you must enact the Hover Treaty, as cleanliness is quite negotiable on the seats. As they say in Lexington: gonorrhea is not a pretty flower.
While using the God-forsaken bathrooms at Riverbend, I noticed a shiny quarter lying on the ground beneath said layer of scummy water. Yes, I picked it up and put it in my pocket. Yes, I washed my hands afterwards. Yes, I gave it to the beer guy about 3.7 minutes after finding it. Yes, I told him where I found it after I gave it to him. Yes, I laughed after the transaction.
You never know who you'll see at a Poison concert. I happened to even spy my handsome friend, The Biscuit, at the concert. I was caught off guard the first time I saw him, only because it was pretty much right after I got there and I wasn't really expecting to run in to him. I knew The Biscuit was going to be among the massive throng of people there, but since my tickets were last minute I didn't want to be all "Hi" and up in his grill, yo, because I was afraid he'd think I was stalking him or something.
God, I can be such a girl sometimes.
Speaking of girls, The Biscuit was with one. I wasn't worried though because he seems pretty trustworthy and not so much like the kind of player I have addressed on this blog previously. I must admit, though, I did watch The Biscuit to see if he would hold this chick's hand or demonstrate some other kind of sign of intimacy. Okay, so I get a bit paranoid at times. Call it the Bridget Jones syndrome...
The Biscuit called me up after the concert and called me out - saying he saw me and he knew I saw him and "Why didn't you say hello?" and basically I told him I didn't want to crash his party and disturb his time with his friend. I considered it a respectful move, but I don't know if he felt dissed or something. Que sera. I am really jazzed about seeing him next Tuesday...
Wait.
Since when did this become a post about The Biscuit? Back to the Poison concert...
All in all, everyone appeared to have a good time. Some guy told me I was hot (which really makes me question his tastes and/or judgment because I basically looked like an unpretty sweatbeast), I drank a couple (okay, maybe more than a couple) beers and had a few laughs with some good friends.
Next time I go see Poison, I definitely plan to dress a little more White-Trashy.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
UPS and downs
10:30 am - Sad and crying because I found out my Uncle Joe died, and that my parents (after 17 months of trying) have sold the family house.
1:08 pm- Happy and cheering because I thought I scored four free tickets at work to the Poison/Cinderella concert. Rawk On! (ps... Nat - haven't you been listening to Poison lately?)
1:12- Bummed because Double Platinum found out the tickets weren't for news people
2:25- Frustrated because DP found out we were only going to get two tickets
3:00- Jazzed because Curly Girl said she had four free tickets and was only taking her aunt.
I really had no idea I would ever go to a Poison/Cinderella concert. I figure it will be a good opportunity to watch interesting people. I went home to get in to the proper attire - my jeans and a tight green T-shirt with a PBR logo on it.
I will keep you posted on any debauchery that may ensue.
1:08 pm- Happy and cheering because I thought I scored four free tickets at work to the Poison/Cinderella concert. Rawk On! (ps... Nat - haven't you been listening to Poison lately?)
1:12- Bummed because Double Platinum found out the tickets weren't for news people
2:25- Frustrated because DP found out we were only going to get two tickets
3:00- Jazzed because Curly Girl said she had four free tickets and was only taking her aunt.
I really had no idea I would ever go to a Poison/Cinderella concert. I figure it will be a good opportunity to watch interesting people. I went home to get in to the proper attire - my jeans and a tight green T-shirt with a PBR logo on it.
I will keep you posted on any debauchery that may ensue.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Did you know?
The NEW 100 Things About Me (thanks to Nat for the meme)
1. Name: Katherine
2. Middle Name: Louise
3. State: Ohio
4. Place of Birth: Charlotte, NC
6. Male or Female: Female
7. Bus/Car: Car
8. School:University of Kentucky
9. Occupation: News Producer
10. Initials: KLC
11. Screen Name: Which one?
YOUR APPEARANCE
12. Hair Color: Blonde, thanks to the nice ladies at the Aveda salon in Hyde Park
13. Hair Length: A bit longer than shoulder length
14. Eye color: blue
15. Best Feature: Perhaps my eyes?
16. Height:5'8"
17. Braces: Yes, four pain filled, years punctuated by mean taunting
19. Shoe size: 10
20. Diploma: Yep (and a degree, too)
YOUR FIRSTS
22. First best friend: Margaret
23. First Award: Something from Girl Scouts, I'm sure
24. First Sport You Joined: See above
25. First thing you did today: I used the facilities in my bathroom
26. First Real vacation: Disney World. I was five.
27. First thing you said today: "Well, hello, Andrew."
28. First Love: I think my imaginary friend Dumas, who was from Africa
FAVORITES
29. Movie: The Goonies
30. TV Show: Right now, I guess I'd have to say Desperate Housewives
31. Color: Blue. Kentucky Blue. Sky Blue. Navy Blue. Azure Blue. I love it all.
32. Rapper: I would pick either Tupac or Notorious BIG. I never bought in to that West Side/East Side crap
33. Place to get groceries: Well, maybe it will be the new Fresh Market I'm checking out in about half an hour.
34. Food: Anything unique. I am not a fan of chain restaurants. Other than that, it's all fair game.
35. Season: Fall or Spring
36. Candy: toffee bars or peanut M&Ms
37. Sport: Big Blue Basketball
38. Restaurant: I think it's Ramsey's in Lexington
41. School Subject: American Literature
42. Animal: Preferably a dog.
43. Book: Great Expectations
CURRENTLY
45. Doing before you started this survey: Writing a story for the 6 pm news.
46. Feeling: End of the day nerves.
47. Wearing: Brown slacks and a pink short sleeve sweater
48. Crying about: Nothing
49. Eating: Rasins
50. Drinking: Water
51. Typing: just this
53. Listening To: An awesome club mix of Sarah McLachlan's hits
54. Thinking about: The show I did today and what's ahead for the week
55. Wanting: More free time
56. Watching: Tonight it will be that movie "Rumor Has It"
FUTURE
57. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?: Busy, fulfilled and very happy
58. Kids: I hope so
59. Want to be Married: Definitely
60. Career in Mind: Most likely.
WHICH IS BETTER IN THE OPPOSITE SEX
63. Hair color: Any. Hair is not a sticking point for me.
64. Hair length: See above.
65. Eye color: green/hazel/blue
66. Measurements: Someone who could be called "strapping"
67. Cute or sexy: Cute, definitely
68. Lips or Eyes: Both
69. Hugs or Kisses: Both
70. Short or Tall: I am a sucker for tall guys
71. Easygoing or serious: Easygoing
72. Romantic or Spontaneous: Both
73. Good or Bad: Good
74. Sensitive or spontaneous: Umm, both?
75. Hook-up or Relationship: Relationship, hands down.
77. Trouble Maker or Hesitant One: I guess I could be okay with a "trouble maker" if we're just talking silly hy-jinks.
HAVE YOU EVER
78. Kissed a Stranger: Yep
79. Had surgery: Yes... if wisdom teeth count
80. Gone commando: Uh huh.
81. Ran Away From Home: Threatened many times, but it never officially happened. I think maybe my mom was disappointed.
82. Broken a bone: That would be a no.
83. Got an X-ray: Yes
84. Been on a cruise: No.
86. Dumped someone: Not really.
87. Cried When Someone Died: Absolutely.
88. Cried At School: Yes. And Work.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN
89. God: Yes
90. Miracles: Definitely.
91. Love at First Sight: Yes.
92. Ghosts: Um, yes.
93. Aliens: Gosh, I really don't like to think about what's out there.
94. Soul Mates: Absolutely.
95. Heaven: Yes.
96. Hell: Yes.
97. Answered prayers: Thank God, yes (and those unanswered ones, too).
98. Kissing on The First Date: Sure. I guess if #78 is alright, then this one must be okay, too.
99. Horoscopes: I don't really put much weight in to them but I check them out anyway.
ANSWER TRUTHFULLY
100. Is there someone you wish you had? Had? In what sense? Right now I'm just glad I have my family, my friends and my identity.
1. Name: Katherine
2. Middle Name: Louise
3. State: Ohio
4. Place of Birth: Charlotte, NC
6. Male or Female: Female
7. Bus/Car: Car
8. School:University of Kentucky
9. Occupation: News Producer
10. Initials: KLC
11. Screen Name: Which one?
YOUR APPEARANCE
12. Hair Color: Blonde, thanks to the nice ladies at the Aveda salon in Hyde Park
13. Hair Length: A bit longer than shoulder length
14. Eye color: blue
15. Best Feature: Perhaps my eyes?
16. Height:5'8"
17. Braces: Yes, four pain filled, years punctuated by mean taunting
19. Shoe size: 10
20. Diploma: Yep (and a degree, too)
YOUR FIRSTS
22. First best friend: Margaret
23. First Award: Something from Girl Scouts, I'm sure
24. First Sport You Joined: See above
25. First thing you did today: I used the facilities in my bathroom
26. First Real vacation: Disney World. I was five.
27. First thing you said today: "Well, hello, Andrew."
28. First Love: I think my imaginary friend Dumas, who was from Africa
FAVORITES
29. Movie: The Goonies
30. TV Show: Right now, I guess I'd have to say Desperate Housewives
31. Color: Blue. Kentucky Blue. Sky Blue. Navy Blue. Azure Blue. I love it all.
32. Rapper: I would pick either Tupac or Notorious BIG. I never bought in to that West Side/East Side crap
33. Place to get groceries: Well, maybe it will be the new Fresh Market I'm checking out in about half an hour.
34. Food: Anything unique. I am not a fan of chain restaurants. Other than that, it's all fair game.
35. Season: Fall or Spring
36. Candy: toffee bars or peanut M&Ms
37. Sport: Big Blue Basketball
38. Restaurant: I think it's Ramsey's in Lexington
41. School Subject: American Literature
42. Animal: Preferably a dog.
43. Book: Great Expectations
CURRENTLY
45. Doing before you started this survey: Writing a story for the 6 pm news.
46. Feeling: End of the day nerves.
47. Wearing: Brown slacks and a pink short sleeve sweater
48. Crying about: Nothing
49. Eating: Rasins
50. Drinking: Water
51. Typing: just this
53. Listening To: An awesome club mix of Sarah McLachlan's hits
54. Thinking about: The show I did today and what's ahead for the week
55. Wanting: More free time
56. Watching: Tonight it will be that movie "Rumor Has It"
FUTURE
57. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?: Busy, fulfilled and very happy
58. Kids: I hope so
59. Want to be Married: Definitely
60. Career in Mind: Most likely.
WHICH IS BETTER IN THE OPPOSITE SEX
63. Hair color: Any. Hair is not a sticking point for me.
64. Hair length: See above.
65. Eye color: green/hazel/blue
66. Measurements: Someone who could be called "strapping"
67. Cute or sexy: Cute, definitely
68. Lips or Eyes: Both
69. Hugs or Kisses: Both
70. Short or Tall: I am a sucker for tall guys
71. Easygoing or serious: Easygoing
72. Romantic or Spontaneous: Both
73. Good or Bad: Good
74. Sensitive or spontaneous: Umm, both?
75. Hook-up or Relationship: Relationship, hands down.
77. Trouble Maker or Hesitant One: I guess I could be okay with a "trouble maker" if we're just talking silly hy-jinks.
HAVE YOU EVER
78. Kissed a Stranger: Yep
79. Had surgery: Yes... if wisdom teeth count
80. Gone commando: Uh huh.
81. Ran Away From Home: Threatened many times, but it never officially happened. I think maybe my mom was disappointed.
82. Broken a bone: That would be a no.
83. Got an X-ray: Yes
84. Been on a cruise: No.
86. Dumped someone: Not really.
87. Cried When Someone Died: Absolutely.
88. Cried At School: Yes. And Work.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN
89. God: Yes
90. Miracles: Definitely.
91. Love at First Sight: Yes.
92. Ghosts: Um, yes.
93. Aliens: Gosh, I really don't like to think about what's out there.
94. Soul Mates: Absolutely.
95. Heaven: Yes.
96. Hell: Yes.
97. Answered prayers: Thank God, yes (and those unanswered ones, too).
98. Kissing on The First Date: Sure. I guess if #78 is alright, then this one must be okay, too.
99. Horoscopes: I don't really put much weight in to them but I check them out anyway.
ANSWER TRUTHFULLY
100. Is there someone you wish you had? Had? In what sense? Right now I'm just glad I have my family, my friends and my identity.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Tuesday's Top Ten: I Feel Happy, Oh So Happy
Why Kate The Great Feels Especially Great This Week:
10. I had a fun, wonderful dinner with two friends last night. I love to cook dinner anytime, but it's especially great when I get to share my home and culinary talents with fun people. Pork chops, red potatoes and green beans were on the menu.
9. Yesterday's doctor visit has inspired me to kick my exercise and diet regimen into high gear. I am going to try and drink more water and eat less sugar. I'm not making any rules about alcohol...
8. I am really looking forward to seeing my good friend GOP Big Wig. I am going to the Reds game Saturday with GBW, her husband and a friend of theirs. Should be a good time... Too bad Saturday isn't the Adam Dunn John Deere trucker hat night. That would have been a major score...
7. Speaking of Saturday: Can I tell you how much I have been anticipating my cut and highlight? My monthly appointments got out of whack after my schedule changed and I had to wait until July to get everything back on track. Blonde Ambition returns to the top of my noggin' - stay tuned.
6. I'm really thankful for today's rain. My tomato plant looked really pathetic after I forgot to water it yesterday, and today's showers are sure to pump - it - up.
5. Payday is Friday. Need I explain the reasons for my happiness on this one?
4. I've got a good movie waiting at home. I love it when I've got a good flick waiting at home for me thanks to the good people at Netflix. Tonight's movie: Rumor Has It.
3. I'm really jazzed about a new store opening in Oakley. The Fresh Market is bringing it's first Cincinnati store to my part of town. It will be so great to not have to drive to the HP bigg's or Kroger for milk and eggs. Now I can just walk a couple blocks to get the good stuff...
2. Still diggin' on The Biscuit. Got an email this morning and it sounds like we're on for a date next Tuesday. I could go on and on and on about my crush but I will contain it to a respectable level of excitement. I think there's a lot of potential with The Biscuit...
1. My apartment is the cleanest it's been in months. You could literally eat off the floor of my kitchen, with clean silverware I washed myself. Afterwards, you could recline on my couch - which is devoid of any articles of clothing.
I don't know whether cleanliness is next to Godliness, but it is pretty damn good.
10. I had a fun, wonderful dinner with two friends last night. I love to cook dinner anytime, but it's especially great when I get to share my home and culinary talents with fun people. Pork chops, red potatoes and green beans were on the menu.
9. Yesterday's doctor visit has inspired me to kick my exercise and diet regimen into high gear. I am going to try and drink more water and eat less sugar. I'm not making any rules about alcohol...
8. I am really looking forward to seeing my good friend GOP Big Wig. I am going to the Reds game Saturday with GBW, her husband and a friend of theirs. Should be a good time... Too bad Saturday isn't the Adam Dunn John Deere trucker hat night. That would have been a major score...
7. Speaking of Saturday: Can I tell you how much I have been anticipating my cut and highlight? My monthly appointments got out of whack after my schedule changed and I had to wait until July to get everything back on track. Blonde Ambition returns to the top of my noggin' - stay tuned.
6. I'm really thankful for today's rain. My tomato plant looked really pathetic after I forgot to water it yesterday, and today's showers are sure to pump - it - up.
5. Payday is Friday. Need I explain the reasons for my happiness on this one?
4. I've got a good movie waiting at home. I love it when I've got a good flick waiting at home for me thanks to the good people at Netflix. Tonight's movie: Rumor Has It.
3. I'm really jazzed about a new store opening in Oakley. The Fresh Market is bringing it's first Cincinnati store to my part of town. It will be so great to not have to drive to the HP bigg's or Kroger for milk and eggs. Now I can just walk a couple blocks to get the good stuff...
2. Still diggin' on The Biscuit. Got an email this morning and it sounds like we're on for a date next Tuesday. I could go on and on and on about my crush but I will contain it to a respectable level of excitement. I think there's a lot of potential with The Biscuit...
1. My apartment is the cleanest it's been in months. You could literally eat off the floor of my kitchen, with clean silverware I washed myself. Afterwards, you could recline on my couch - which is devoid of any articles of clothing.
I don't know whether cleanliness is next to Godliness, but it is pretty damn good.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Butter Up To The Biscuit And Other Dish
The Biscuit and I had our first official date Friday.
He originally planned for our evening to start with an excursion to the always entertaining Jungle Jim's, but the convo started rolling so we decided to forgo that and just bide our time until our reservations at the Go Banana's Comedy Club. The evening continued with those intimacy building touches on the leg and quick kisses between jokes. I instantly felt a connection with The Biscuit.
The Biscuit said he'd call me as he left my place afterwards. It was enveloped in a mention about how his phone is still broken and he's super busy right now, so there's a tiny bit of me that wonders whether it was a gratuitous comment tossed out to make me feel good or whether he really will call me.
The Biscuit doesn't really strike me as a scammer type (total confession: Kate the Great has been fooled before) so I'm not putting a lot of weight into my worrying. The fact is, I think the guy might dig me and I know I dig him so I am just being patient and seeing where things go.
Gosh, he's cute...
I do have a little nugget to worry about, though. Before The Biscuit and I even made it to our first date, he told me he always had trouble making it to a second date with a girl. Something about how the girls he dates end up either being psycho or super needy or something. The comment is something to back up my niggling worries, but like I said before, I'm not biting my nails over this one.
Wait. My nails have already been chewed off...
Whatever.
I think The Biscuit knows I'm not really crazy or needy and that I have my head on straight.
I'll keep y'all posted on this one.
***
I went to the doctor's office today. The doctor's office. The annual moment that every woman looks forward to like a root canal. I was surprised I could get in to the office as quickly as I did. Normally a chick has to wait for like, a year, to get in to the doctor's office. I was shocked when I called in May and found out they could squeeze me in sometime in July.
It's funny, the things that run through your head when you're at the doctor's office. Thank God I painted my toe nails. Did I do enough grooming? Will any of this hurt?
I was sitting there on the table, waiting for the doctor to come in when I realized she would likely not see me in my normal clothes. To the doctor, I was just the patient du jour in a gown and a sheet. She wouldn't get a chance to check out my nice work slacks or my black, open toed stillettos. The good doctor would only be able to judge me based on the health of my body, my lifestyle choices and grooming habits.
It was kind of a strange thought to me, considering ours is a society that is consumed on judging people based on their outward appearance. "Who gives a shit if she smokes like a fiend and does coke like it's her job, Kate Moss rocks!"
In regards to my health, basically, everything's all good. But there are some problems with being a woman. I've got some ongoing issues that I won't get into here because I'm not a doctor and well, I don't really think y'all need to know so much about my reproductive health now, do you?
Essentially, I have a condition that I need to watch as it could lead to diabetes and other fun stuff. The doctor suggests I go on South Beach. I hate South Beach. If there were a church for carbs I would sit in the front row and be happy to break that wonderful, sweet bread with the rest of the parish.
The doc says as long as I stick with exercise and watch my sugar, I should be alright.
Being a grown-up sucks.
Remember when dinner was a frozen pizza and oreos for dessert?
He originally planned for our evening to start with an excursion to the always entertaining Jungle Jim's, but the convo started rolling so we decided to forgo that and just bide our time until our reservations at the Go Banana's Comedy Club. The evening continued with those intimacy building touches on the leg and quick kisses between jokes. I instantly felt a connection with The Biscuit.
The Biscuit said he'd call me as he left my place afterwards. It was enveloped in a mention about how his phone is still broken and he's super busy right now, so there's a tiny bit of me that wonders whether it was a gratuitous comment tossed out to make me feel good or whether he really will call me.
The Biscuit doesn't really strike me as a scammer type (total confession: Kate the Great has been fooled before) so I'm not putting a lot of weight into my worrying. The fact is, I think the guy might dig me and I know I dig him so I am just being patient and seeing where things go.
Gosh, he's cute...
I do have a little nugget to worry about, though. Before The Biscuit and I even made it to our first date, he told me he always had trouble making it to a second date with a girl. Something about how the girls he dates end up either being psycho or super needy or something. The comment is something to back up my niggling worries, but like I said before, I'm not biting my nails over this one.
Wait. My nails have already been chewed off...
Whatever.
I think The Biscuit knows I'm not really crazy or needy and that I have my head on straight.
I'll keep y'all posted on this one.
***
I went to the doctor's office today. The doctor's office. The annual moment that every woman looks forward to like a root canal. I was surprised I could get in to the office as quickly as I did. Normally a chick has to wait for like, a year, to get in to the doctor's office. I was shocked when I called in May and found out they could squeeze me in sometime in July.
It's funny, the things that run through your head when you're at the doctor's office. Thank God I painted my toe nails. Did I do enough grooming? Will any of this hurt?
I was sitting there on the table, waiting for the doctor to come in when I realized she would likely not see me in my normal clothes. To the doctor, I was just the patient du jour in a gown and a sheet. She wouldn't get a chance to check out my nice work slacks or my black, open toed stillettos. The good doctor would only be able to judge me based on the health of my body, my lifestyle choices and grooming habits.
It was kind of a strange thought to me, considering ours is a society that is consumed on judging people based on their outward appearance. "Who gives a shit if she smokes like a fiend and does coke like it's her job, Kate Moss rocks!"
In regards to my health, basically, everything's all good. But there are some problems with being a woman. I've got some ongoing issues that I won't get into here because I'm not a doctor and well, I don't really think y'all need to know so much about my reproductive health now, do you?
Essentially, I have a condition that I need to watch as it could lead to diabetes and other fun stuff. The doctor suggests I go on South Beach. I hate South Beach. If there were a church for carbs I would sit in the front row and be happy to break that wonderful, sweet bread with the rest of the parish.
The doc says as long as I stick with exercise and watch my sugar, I should be alright.
Being a grown-up sucks.
Remember when dinner was a frozen pizza and oreos for dessert?
I have a smile stretched from ear to ear
Lots to update when I have a minute.
I am really happy today... I mean, more happy than normal.
Things I want to talk about:
My first date with Biscuit
My doctor's appointment today
The problems of being a woman
Stay tuned.
I am really happy today... I mean, more happy than normal.
Things I want to talk about:
My first date with Biscuit
My doctor's appointment today
The problems of being a woman
Stay tuned.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Go Big Blue
I haven't posted one of these in a while...
From the fabulous collection at Fay Cullen.com
I am usually a pretty traditional girl where rocks are concerned. Platinum and sparkling white diamonds make the most beautiful combination for any hand, but I must admit, this ring is pretty much a show stopper.
I was especially taken by the massive, deep blue sapphire that sits prominently in the ring.
It would be the perfect weapon to use when bitch slapping a mugger on Cincinnati's Main Street.
Hey, a girl can dream, right?
From the fabulous collection at Fay Cullen.comI am usually a pretty traditional girl where rocks are concerned. Platinum and sparkling white diamonds make the most beautiful combination for any hand, but I must admit, this ring is pretty much a show stopper.
I was especially taken by the massive, deep blue sapphire that sits prominently in the ring.
It would be the perfect weapon to use when bitch slapping a mugger on Cincinnati's Main Street.
Hey, a girl can dream, right?
Friday, July 07, 2006
Friday Happy Hour
From Friday's Feast
Appetizer
When was the last time you visited a hospital?
Last spring I went to go visit a friend who was battling cancer. She is healthy now, has a 94% survival rate, and is getting married in September!
Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how ambitious are you?
I would say maybe an 8?
Salad
Make a sentence using the letters of a body part. (Example: (mouth) My other ukelele tings healthily.)
Never
Order
Scrambled
Eggs
Main Course
If you were to start a club, what would the subject matter be, and what would you name it?
It would be a gourmet club. I don't know that it would have a name or anything, but I would basically invite friends over to my house for dinner and drinking. A good time would ensue. Then all the guests would throw their name in a hat and they would find out who gets to throw the next one.
Dessert
What color is the carpet/flooring in your home?
That awful, industrial beige color that is cheap and gets dirty easy. I can't wait until I have a real house so I can have hardwood floors and nice rugs.
Appetizer
When was the last time you visited a hospital?
Last spring I went to go visit a friend who was battling cancer. She is healthy now, has a 94% survival rate, and is getting married in September!
Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how ambitious are you?
I would say maybe an 8?
Salad
Make a sentence using the letters of a body part. (Example: (mouth) My other ukelele tings healthily.)
Never
Order
Scrambled
Eggs
Main Course
If you were to start a club, what would the subject matter be, and what would you name it?
It would be a gourmet club. I don't know that it would have a name or anything, but I would basically invite friends over to my house for dinner and drinking. A good time would ensue. Then all the guests would throw their name in a hat and they would find out who gets to throw the next one.
Dessert
What color is the carpet/flooring in your home?
That awful, industrial beige color that is cheap and gets dirty easy. I can't wait until I have a real house so I can have hardwood floors and nice rugs.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Playing Games Is For Losers
Nat's blog post struck a chord with me today.
Why does dating involve so many games? I, myself, am not a playa. I'm a straight shootin' chick who doesn't really try to manipulate people for my own personal benefit. I have little to no expectations when it comes to blossoming relationships and bring nothing but honesty when someone opens himself up to me.
That said, sometimes a girl feels like she's gotta get in the game playing business when she repeatedly gets played herself.
(This is when those of you out there say, Don't hate the playa, hate the game, yo. Whatever.)
Now, I don't think I'm getting played now. In fact, I feel like 2006 has brought me nothing but nice, intelligent men full bursting with integrity and respect. The year's not over yet, but so far, so good. But life wasn't always this good in my hood (random shoutout to T-Homas here), in fact there were some times in my life when I was quite taken advantage of, getting played more than a penny slot at Caesar's.
It pretty much sucks, to put it bluntly, to be caught in this Catch-22 of dating.
Why does dating involve so many games? I, myself, am not a playa. I'm a straight shootin' chick who doesn't really try to manipulate people for my own personal benefit. I have little to no expectations when it comes to blossoming relationships and bring nothing but honesty when someone opens himself up to me.
That said, sometimes a girl feels like she's gotta get in the game playing business when she repeatedly gets played herself.
(This is when those of you out there say, Don't hate the playa, hate the game, yo. Whatever.)
Now, I don't think I'm getting played now. In fact, I feel like 2006 has brought me nothing but nice, intelligent men full bursting with integrity and respect. The year's not over yet, but so far, so good. But life wasn't always this good in my hood (random shoutout to T-Homas here), in fact there were some times in my life when I was quite taken advantage of, getting played more than a penny slot at Caesar's.
It pretty much sucks, to put it bluntly, to be caught in this Catch-22 of dating.
- Don't put up a front, bring on the honesty, and have someone trash/take advantage of you
- Bring on the game playing and never really establish the makings of a genuine relationship
I'm sticking to my guns on this one though, folks.
There's no need to cheat a chance at an honest relationship all for the sake of manipulating someone into doing they wouldn't do on their own. That's just so cheap.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Blue Bloods and Missile Defense Systems
I love the 4th of July.
My family usually celebrates the way most families do. We walk up to Boston Post Road to check out the annual parade, complete with a Revolutionary War fife and drum corps, put some burgers on the grill (my dad's are the best, but I guess I'm partial) and maybe watch the town fireworks display.
In my adult years my expectations have diminished considerably. As a single gal with no family of my own, I'm pretty happy celebrating with some sparklers and a 12 pack of beer straight out of St. Louis or Milwaukee. None of that import shit on Independence Day.
So imagine my dismay when I pulled up to a "potluck picnic" that offered valet parking.
Seriously.
As soon as I pulled up to the drive and saw the big sign with the balloons, I felt like a heel. I rarely carry cash in my purse, so I traveled down the blacktop knowing I wouldn't have a dollar to give this dude when he pulled my car back around after the party was over. I spent several years working a working class kind of job, and I have the utmost respect for the people who earn a living performing services for the rest of us.
It was in that moment when I said to myself "What a schmuck."
I guess that's a lesson learned. Always carry cash. Even just a dollar would do.
I went on into the party and instantly felt way out of my league. These were people with diamonds the size of the Rosetta Stone and trust funds in the bank. I don't mind associating with these people because, well, they're people after all. Still, my checking account is one or two zeros away from bouncing and that's okay with me because I am normal folks and don't expect cashing in on a trust fund at any time.
Most of the people there didn't really say boo to me, and I walked up to the buffet table (prominently sitting beneath the most exquisite crystal chandelier) and chastised myself for going to the fete stag. I really would have loved having someone along to laugh at the guy with the funny patchwork pants (as I write this, I remember that my father owns a pair of those pants. No matter) and the young trophy wife trying to hold up the Rock of Gibraltar on her left hand as she clung to the CombOver husband with her right.
I managed to spend the evening with two cool people I didn't know. The woman was a native of Taiwan and a beginner in the Junior League with me. Her husband was a native of Germany (yes, interesting combo) and the two both had a lot to say about Independence Day, America's immigration debate and the flourishing (yes, I said flourishing) art scene in Cincinnati.
The three of us left the party before we were killed or maimed by the neighbor kids shooting illegal fireworks into the not-even-dark sky.
***
Speaking of fireworks, I think Donald Rumsfeld needs to get in touch with the people who live behind me. Last night they were single-handedly investigating how fireworks could be used to protect the Oakley neighborhood from the dangers of those North Korean long range missiles.
I was none too pleased when I continued to hear the thundering blasts rock our little corner of the world well into the 1 am hour. There I was, tucked into my bed, getting ready to dive into those sugarplum thoughts of Summer when <BOOM> some jackass would launch another massive device into the stratosphere.
Seriously. There must be some kind of time limit on acting like a holiday hooligan. I'm all for debauchery and high jinks and fisticuffs, but people please, can we put a time limit on it?
Now, back to your beanie weenies and RC Cola.
My family usually celebrates the way most families do. We walk up to Boston Post Road to check out the annual parade, complete with a Revolutionary War fife and drum corps, put some burgers on the grill (my dad's are the best, but I guess I'm partial) and maybe watch the town fireworks display.
In my adult years my expectations have diminished considerably. As a single gal with no family of my own, I'm pretty happy celebrating with some sparklers and a 12 pack of beer straight out of St. Louis or Milwaukee. None of that import shit on Independence Day.
So imagine my dismay when I pulled up to a "potluck picnic" that offered valet parking.
Seriously.
As soon as I pulled up to the drive and saw the big sign with the balloons, I felt like a heel. I rarely carry cash in my purse, so I traveled down the blacktop knowing I wouldn't have a dollar to give this dude when he pulled my car back around after the party was over. I spent several years working a working class kind of job, and I have the utmost respect for the people who earn a living performing services for the rest of us.
It was in that moment when I said to myself "What a schmuck."
I guess that's a lesson learned. Always carry cash. Even just a dollar would do.
I went on into the party and instantly felt way out of my league. These were people with diamonds the size of the Rosetta Stone and trust funds in the bank. I don't mind associating with these people because, well, they're people after all. Still, my checking account is one or two zeros away from bouncing and that's okay with me because I am normal folks and don't expect cashing in on a trust fund at any time.
Most of the people there didn't really say boo to me, and I walked up to the buffet table (prominently sitting beneath the most exquisite crystal chandelier) and chastised myself for going to the fete stag. I really would have loved having someone along to laugh at the guy with the funny patchwork pants (as I write this, I remember that my father owns a pair of those pants. No matter) and the young trophy wife trying to hold up the Rock of Gibraltar on her left hand as she clung to the CombOver husband with her right.
I managed to spend the evening with two cool people I didn't know. The woman was a native of Taiwan and a beginner in the Junior League with me. Her husband was a native of Germany (yes, interesting combo) and the two both had a lot to say about Independence Day, America's immigration debate and the flourishing (yes, I said flourishing) art scene in Cincinnati.
The three of us left the party before we were killed or maimed by the neighbor kids shooting illegal fireworks into the not-even-dark sky.
***
Speaking of fireworks, I think Donald Rumsfeld needs to get in touch with the people who live behind me. Last night they were single-handedly investigating how fireworks could be used to protect the Oakley neighborhood from the dangers of those North Korean long range missiles.
I was none too pleased when I continued to hear the thundering blasts rock our little corner of the world well into the 1 am hour. There I was, tucked into my bed, getting ready to dive into those sugarplum thoughts of Summer when <BOOM> some jackass would launch another massive device into the stratosphere.
Seriously. There must be some kind of time limit on acting like a holiday hooligan. I'm all for debauchery and high jinks and fisticuffs, but people please, can we put a time limit on it?
Now, back to your beanie weenies and RC Cola.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Miss Independent
Happy Fourth Of July
America stands for liberty, for the pursuit of happiness and for the unalienable right for life. This right to life cannot be granted or denied by government because it does not come from government, it comes from the creator of life. - George W. Bush
See, we love - we love freedom. That's what they didn't understand. They hate things; we love things. They act out of hatred; we don't seek revenge, we seek justice out of love. - George W. Bush
There may be some tough times here in America. But this country has gone through tough times before, and we're going to do it again. - George W. Bush
You're free. And freedom is beautiful. And, you know, it'll take time to restore chaos and order - order out of chaos. But we will. - George W. Bush
America stands for liberty, for the pursuit of happiness and for the unalienable right for life. This right to life cannot be granted or denied by government because it does not come from government, it comes from the creator of life. - George W. Bush
See, we love - we love freedom. That's what they didn't understand. They hate things; we love things. They act out of hatred; we don't seek revenge, we seek justice out of love. - George W. Bush
There may be some tough times here in America. But this country has gone through tough times before, and we're going to do it again. - George W. Bush
You're free. And freedom is beautiful. And, you know, it'll take time to restore chaos and order - order out of chaos. But we will. - George W. Bush
Monday, July 03, 2006
Weekend Update
Margaritas have a way of making a weekend great, don't they?
I discovered a recipe to serve up when some friends met up at my house for an evening out on The Hill. I don't know how likely I will be in sharing my recipe as lots of folks revere their rita concoction as a closely guarded secret.
I might share it after some heavy armtwisting...
Anyway.
My gal-pal D-Money came in town for her birthday and a girls' night out on the town. Our conversation reverted to the kinds of topics you expect among women: new shoes, birth control and bad boyfriends.
A highlight of my evening: a hot guy asked for my digits. I'm not really expecting any fireworks there, but it certainly was a nice ego boost.
Speaking of fireworks, we managed to catch the Bellevue fireworks show. We were walking around Mt. Adams and saw the sparkles in the sky through some of the trees. Our little group managed to make it to a nice, little patio setting on the side of the hill to catch the action. We capped off the festivities with some sparklers I was carrying in my purse (you're never too old to play with sparklers). Who knows why I had them, but it was a fun way to regress back to being a kid again.
I spent Sunday out by the pool and now I am constantly putting lotion on because my maracas got a little crispy.
I guess I need to keep the sunblock on those babies...
I discovered a recipe to serve up when some friends met up at my house for an evening out on The Hill. I don't know how likely I will be in sharing my recipe as lots of folks revere their rita concoction as a closely guarded secret.
I might share it after some heavy armtwisting...
Anyway.
My gal-pal D-Money came in town for her birthday and a girls' night out on the town. Our conversation reverted to the kinds of topics you expect among women: new shoes, birth control and bad boyfriends.
A highlight of my evening: a hot guy asked for my digits. I'm not really expecting any fireworks there, but it certainly was a nice ego boost.
Speaking of fireworks, we managed to catch the Bellevue fireworks show. We were walking around Mt. Adams and saw the sparkles in the sky through some of the trees. Our little group managed to make it to a nice, little patio setting on the side of the hill to catch the action. We capped off the festivities with some sparklers I was carrying in my purse (you're never too old to play with sparklers). Who knows why I had them, but it was a fun way to regress back to being a kid again.
I spent Sunday out by the pool and now I am constantly putting lotion on because my maracas got a little crispy.
I guess I need to keep the sunblock on those babies...
Sunday, July 02, 2006
My Hot Brown Casserole Brings All The Boys To The Yard
I love to cook. For those of you who know me well, this is no secret. The anonymous voyeurs out there (so you like to watch, do you?) may not be as in tune with that side of my personality. Read this if you need more background.
Tonight I am whipping up a dish to bring over to a friend and her family tomorrow as they cope with their mother's battle with breast cancer.
The perfect situation for some down home cookin' from the Bluegrass.
The Hot Brown is a legendary Kentucky tradition, revered alongside with our Derby Pie, our bourbon and of course our fried chicken. The dish originates from the Brown Hotel in Louisville (say it with me: Luhl - vuhl. You can do it in three syllables Lou uh vuhl if you're having a tough time getting the hang of it) and is served up in many a Kentucky kitchen.
My favorite can be found at Ramsey's in Lexington, KY.
Anyway.
Here's a look at a recipe I snagged off the Allen County Extension Office webpage. Yeah, they're the ones who include "Wash your hands" as one of the steps. I guess a little soap never hurt anybody.
I am probably going to switch out the margarine for real butter, and I will probably use shredded sharp cheddar instead of the low fat kind. I know the recipe says it's the Leaner version, but today I'm really not watching the calories I'm putting in.
Happy cooking.
The Leaner Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole
1/4 cup low fat margarine
1/4 cup flour
2 cups skim milk
1 chicken bouillon cube
6 slices bread, toasted
3/4-1 lb. thinly sliced or shredded turkey
2/3 cup shredded low fat cheese (or low fat cheese slices)
2 tomatoes, sliced
3 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
1. Wash hands.
2. Melt margarine in pan over low heat.
3. Add flour, stirring until smooth. Add bouillon and milk.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened and bubbly, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
5. Place toast in 13x9 baking dish, greased with cooking spray.
6. Top each slice of toast with desired amount of turkey.
7. Spoon sauce over meat.
8. Layer cheese, tomato slices and crumbled bacon over sauce.
9. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
Makes 6 servings.
Tonight I am whipping up a dish to bring over to a friend and her family tomorrow as they cope with their mother's battle with breast cancer.
The perfect situation for some down home cookin' from the Bluegrass.
The Hot Brown is a legendary Kentucky tradition, revered alongside with our Derby Pie, our bourbon and of course our fried chicken. The dish originates from the Brown Hotel in Louisville (say it with me: Luhl - vuhl. You can do it in three syllables Lou uh vuhl if you're having a tough time getting the hang of it) and is served up in many a Kentucky kitchen.
My favorite can be found at Ramsey's in Lexington, KY.
Anyway.
Here's a look at a recipe I snagged off the Allen County Extension Office webpage. Yeah, they're the ones who include "Wash your hands" as one of the steps. I guess a little soap never hurt anybody.
I am probably going to switch out the margarine for real butter, and I will probably use shredded sharp cheddar instead of the low fat kind. I know the recipe says it's the Leaner version, but today I'm really not watching the calories I'm putting in.
Happy cooking.
The Leaner Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole
1/4 cup low fat margarine
1/4 cup flour
2 cups skim milk
1 chicken bouillon cube
6 slices bread, toasted
3/4-1 lb. thinly sliced or shredded turkey
2/3 cup shredded low fat cheese (or low fat cheese slices)
2 tomatoes, sliced
3 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
1. Wash hands.
2. Melt margarine in pan over low heat.
3. Add flour, stirring until smooth. Add bouillon and milk.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened and bubbly, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
5. Place toast in 13x9 baking dish, greased with cooking spray.
6. Top each slice of toast with desired amount of turkey.
7. Spoon sauce over meat.
8. Layer cheese, tomato slices and crumbled bacon over sauce.
9. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
Makes 6 servings.
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