MERRRRYYYYYY Christmas!!

Hi Peeps,
How was your Christmas? I'm seriously waiting to get my sh*t together to post an appropriate Christmas blog.. complete with pics and more pics. I think I need to find another blogging website or whatever they're called to help me with my pictures.. so I can fill the page better.. this is me just thinking out loud here.

I found a new blog to inspire me.. The Daybook.. at tandsdaybook.blogspot.com go check Sydney (and husband, Tyson) out.

Tonight, we're going to a parrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr-tay!! The hosts are Lynn and Steve. Lynn is one of my mom's best friends. I'm so looking forward to this!

You've got to see what my mom just emailed me.. in regards to said party..

"Just talked to Lynnie, she hired a valet, so I wouldn’t have to worry about my shoes! Isn’t she great! Oh maybe it’s because of the rain? JK – she said it was for my shoes!"

I'm pretty sure it's for mom's shoes.. who's jealous?

Here's a pic of me on Christmas Eve.. hopefully it will serve as a cliffhanger for you!



Opening umbrellas inside on Christmas Eve can only mean one thing.. MORE PRESENTS!



See ya soon.

Forgotten Trip to Iowa?

What the H-E-Double Hockey Sticks is my problem? I had an amazing weekend (two weeks ago) in Iowa with my mom and I haven't even blogged about it yet! Talk about, LAME. Perhaps I was waiting until I uploaded the four pictures I captured.. yeah that's it.. and no, I haven't done that either..

Any who, my weekend.. in words..

So, Mom and I drove up on a Friday.. after work.. we took our dear sweetlittlebabyJesus time. Stopping every couple of hours to use the girls' room and get a soda.. the usual. Arriving to our final destination well before midnight.. HIGH FIVE!!

The temperature dropped to 4, and the rain started early Saturday morning, leaving the whole state (and north, I presume) rather icy.. then around 7:45am, snow began to fall! I love snow! I don't care how cold it is or how much I complain about it, I LOVE IT. Emily and my Aunt met up with us at the hotel, followed by Tab and David.. after gathering the troops, we made our way to the greatest lunch-ery in all of West Des Moines, IA.. Palmer's Deli! Just as we're finishing lunch, the blizzard is beginning. That's right. BLIZZARD. Whenever I was out in the blizzard, which was more often than you might think.. I had my eyes closed, but I bet it looked like a a big, fat, cold, snowy tornado.

We barely got through 1/4 of the mall, but were pretty successful with our Christmas shopping! We enjoyed a late dinner at the coolest sports bar in town.. minus the UFC fight.. Sure, I'll have a Chicken Cesar Salad and a bloody ear. VOM.

Sunday, the blizzard had ended, and the sun was out! Still windy, still cold, still slick.. Yours truly had a very special baptism to attend.. as I was becoming a Godmother.. Sunday evening was spent at Emily's very humble abode. She was excited to show us her Christmas tree!! And rightfully so, it's GORGE!! All five us (Em's hubby-to-be was a crucial member of girl's weekend.. we don't discriminate) teamed up to finish Emily's new kitchen chairs.. I don't have a picture, so only us fab five will know what I'm talking about.

Mom and I drove back Monday morning.. only got lost twice :)

I have reason to believe this will become an every December sort of thing.. Can't wait till December 2011!!

This is the only pic I have.. because it was on my phone.

This is my totally precious Godson..
He's afraid/very intrigued by the flash on my Blackberry Bold 9700 ;)

It was so wonderful to see all sides of my family!

Jan. 1 is in like 3 weeks! BREAKING NEWS!

Because 2011 is right around the corner, and most of us will be making New Year's Resolutions that we may or may not keep.. I thought this email chain (Sent to yours truly by THE Mary Lou Retton Rybicki) would be very fitting.. and then remind me to tell you a story..

A WOMAN'S WEEK AT THE GYM
If you read this without laughing out loud, there is something wrong with you. This is dedicated to everyone who ever attempted to get into a regular workout routine. (For reals, and that's part of the email, I didn't say it..)

Dear Diary,
For my birthday this year, my Husband (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me. Although, I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try. I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Christo, who identified himself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear.

My husband seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.
________________________________

MONDAY:
Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Christo waiting for me. He is something of a Greek god - with blond hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile. Woo Hoo!!

Christo gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which he conducted his aerobics class after my workout today. Very inspiring!

Christo was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time he was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week-!!
________________________________

TUESDAY:
I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Christo made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air, then he put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. His rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT-!! It's a whole new life for me.
_______________________________

WEDNESDAY:
The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot.

Christo was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. His voice is a little too perky for that early in the morning and when he scolds, he gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying.

My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Christo put me on the stair monster... Why the hell would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Christo told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. He said some other shit too.
______________________________

THURSDAY:
Asshole was waiting for me with his vampire-like teeth exposed as his thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late - it took me that long to tie my shoes.

He took me to work out with dumbbells. When he was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. He sent some skinny bitch to find me.

Then, as punishment, he put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank.
_________________________________

FRIDAY:
I hate that bastard Christo more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little aerobic instructor. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat him with it.

Christo wanted me to work on my triceps.. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the damn barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich.
The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?
________________________________

SATURDAY:
Satan left a message on my answering machine in his grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing his voice made me want to smash the machine with my planner; however, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.
________________________________

SUNDAY:
I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my husband will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy. I still say if God had wanted me to bend over, he would have sprinkled the floor with diamonds!!!

Are you laughing out loud and/or peeing your pants?????????????
Ok, my turn.
Has anyone seen the email with two houses.. one with loads of Christmas lights and the other with a lighted "Ditto" above an arrow.. pointing at the borderline fire hazard/house?? Well, Wessie and I saw it in REAL LIFE last night! If you live in my 'hood.. check out these neighbors off Ladue Rd. East of Mason and West of 270. You'll get a big kick out of it.

Will You Marry Me, Tim Riggins? If Not, It's Ok. Tiger Is Single.

While we all know Tiger Woods tops my chart.. Tim Riggins is a close #2.. I like to think the Friday Night Lights Tim and the Tim in real life (Taylor Kitsch) are the same people.. so I'll just stick to calling him Tim Riggins for now.

I was eating my sugar doughnut, when I got an email from WORLD'S BEST MOM. She found me an article and a new twitterer tweeter twitterer to follow, Zap2it.. I got some super great news.. well, more like dece news.. about my fav TV drama, 'FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS.' Mom would agree, we already knew what Zap2it tweeted. But, we were reminded that we haven't heard any deets on the show. We know that the Direct TVers have been watching Season 5 (the final season..) since Oct. Well, LA-DEE-DA for you.  However, still no word of when Season 5 comes to whatever we have. I do know it's 13 long (but not long enough) episodes. And only a couple of familiar faces.. I won't hold my breath for Tim Riggins, as he is in jail. I HOPE YOU'RE HAVING A REAL NICE TIME WITH YOUR STRIPPER WIFE AND SON, BILLY! QB 1 (Matt Saracen) is in Chicago with best friend and funny man, Landry.. Vince may not even be around, he's been seen in 'Parenthood.' Who watches that? I love it. Mostly because of Lorelai Gilmore.

Happy Hump Day!

St. Nick's Day

Happy St. Nick's Day!

We've celebrated at our house for as long as I can remember! Not familiar with St. Nick's Day??? I'll fill you in.

St. Nick, "Everyone's Saint," patron saint of children and sailors, brides, the hungry, etc (Seriously, he's the patron saint of more causes than any other saint.) Anyway, Saint Nicholas (4th Century Greek Christian Bishop) had a reputation of secret gift-giving.. such has leaving gold coins in shoes (LIGHT BULB?).. Furthermore, becoming the model for.. say it with me.. SANTA CLAUS!!!!

St. Nick's feast day is Dec. 6th. So, on the night of Dec. 5th, leave your shoes outside your bedroom door, go to sleep with your fingers crossed (that's not really part of the tradition), and when you wake up.. PRESENTS!!!



Scarf, embellished t, skivvies, Glee 4.. THANK YOU ST. NICK!

19 Days till CHRISTMAS!!

T.G.I.F.. And I Really Mean It This Time!!!

Maybe I'm still Thanksgiving-lagged.. but.. while this week has gone by pretty darn fast, I'm painfully pooped.

Last night, my bf took me to see "Unstoppable." Otherwise known as, "The New Denzel Movie." I love Denzel! I totally recommend "The New Denzel Movie." A-MAZE-ZING! Chris Pine is in it, too.. he's not so terrible to look at either.

Looking forward to the 2010 Frostbite Open and NORDYNE holiday party this weekend. It's at HOME. Don't be confused with "my house", HOME is a Vegas-y, New York-y nightclub.. boasting the revolutionizing of nightlife in the midwest. With celebrity guests and star DJs. Kim Kardashian and Paris even made an appearance.. and I was there New Years Eve 2007/2008 (Shout out to TReedy13!).. the Miss America who had the coke problem/addiction/but didn't really do it was our host. Yippity-do-dah. There's only one problem, HOME closed in August.. to the public. It stays open for private parties, like OURS. Booyah! Actually I'm really just looking forward to wearing these.

You're welcome.


AND Tiger is leading the 2010 Chevron World Challenge! That's the last time Ian Poulter calls MY boyfriend "#2"

Happy Friday!

I'm Thankful For Thanksgiving!

This Thanksgiving was easily the best Thanksgiving I'll ever have in 2010.... ;)

We had family, friends, food, SNOW, tigers, lions, giraffes, okapis, lots of alcohol, a birthday, fun, and more food and alcohol!

In preparation, besides cleaning and cooking and baking, mom and I put together our centerpieces. If anyone wants to hire us to run their florist, we'll consider it, but it'll cost ya! Mom bought red roses, greens, and this yellow stuff...

The red roses and the yellow stuff.

Finished products!

Shame on me for not taking any pictures of the formal dinner table, but trust.. it was GORGE!

Our guests arrived Wednesday night, it was our typical Thanksgiving Eve.. snacks, pizza, drinking, and dessert making.. the best part, we get to try eat the desserts!

Notice the gorgeous centerpieces!

Usually, we run the Turkey Trot Thursday morning, this year we had SNOW! Can you believe it! SNOW! Because of this light wintry mix, we forfeited the run and slept in. I don't think anyone was that disappointed..

SNOW!

Thursday afternoon was passed with board games and champagne. After dinner, we worked off our tryptophan comas with a little Rock Band!

If anyone knows the drummer, tell him to call me ;)

Speaking of drummers, look out for this crazy chick on our upcoming Tour.

Friday afternoon was spent at the zoo and Saturday, at the Anheuser Busch Brewery in downtown St. Louis, MO. A select few attended Beer School in the morning and the rest of us met up with the graduates for the Beermaster Tour. It was AWESOME! We ended the magnificent weekend with a birthday!

Step 5: Adding hops and stuff..

The Clydesdales! The names above the stalls are the names of the original horses.
That is NOT Scott.

Happy 23rd Birthday!

Saturday night it was just Mom, Dad and me. We watched Julie and Julia, and loved it! Today, begins day 1 of Christmas Shopping!!!

Happy Thanksgiving! I am oh so thankful for my life.

Fools Rush In

Has anyone seen Fools Rush In? With Matthew Perry and Salma Hayek?? And I'm not looking for, "I've seen parts..." I want a full out, "YES!" and an added, "LOVE IT!" would be nice. Anyway, remember the part when Salma's brothers take Matthew (I don't remember their show names.. shame on me!) out for a boys day, or whatever. And Matthew comes back with a half empty bottle of Tequila and Cactus needles in his rump.. and he has this crazy, flirting with fake, Mexican Spanish Mexican accent.. Remember???? The brothers carry Matthew through the door and either throw him, or he falls face first on the floor, and says.. "Lucy, ju got some splainin ju do..." Ok. Yeah. So, I wish I talked like that when I was drunkski.. I wish it was like, "my thing." Like I couldn't help it.. in fact, I would drink more if it were just something that came natural while being under the influence. Then, I might even talk like that when we're all out at a bar, just because I can, and the worst thing that people will think of me is that I've had one too many fishbowl margaritas..

Happy Thursday :)

Who can I hire to massage my neck while at work?

Hi peeps,

Just taking a break from Open Enrollment forms to show you THIS.

Jada with her Aunt Bonch/me.. jealous?

Welcome to the World, Jada!

Welcome to the World, Jada Jane Juenger!!! (And, sorry I'm a day late)

THE "Baby J" now, formally known as the above, ok I'll say it again, Jada Jane Juenger, was born Wednesday, November 10 at 3:36am. She weighed in at 7 lbs. 7 oz., stretching to a very model-esque, 20".



Mom and baby are doing well.. Obviously.. And, Gooch is probably ok too.

 Congrats, Lovebugs!

Lame Title.. err.. No Title Tuesday

I know what you're about to say, and save it! (WHERE'S THE FULL RECAP OF CHELSEA'S SHOW, THAT YOU PROMISED.. BOO HOO.. I'm talking to myself..)

The show was great. Not the best ever, but great. Chris Franjola opened for Chels. Apparently, he's on the show (Remember, I don't watch..) and he got boo-ed. Tear. Actually, it wasn't him, it was the sound.. we, in the upper decks had issues hearing the Comedian. Not cool. However, I giggled at his jokes. You know how some funny people just take it too far.. I felt like he did that. He did his thing for 15-20 mins, and that was plenty. Then, a mere 5 minutos later, Chelsea appeared! I wasn't fond of her outfit, neither was Mary.. which generally means, we're right. Her lady parts were super floppy when she jumped around.. maybe that's her bra's problem. Otherwise, she had her hair in a messy pony and was wearing a headband.. something I might wear to the gym versus a show.. I mean, I straightened my hair.. which as we all know, is a twice-a-year occurrence. Anywho.. she had kind of a ostrich-y walk, either because she was loaded or her feet hurt in her high heeled boots.. you tell me. Otherwise, HYSTERICAL. But, if you want me to go see her again, buy me a ticket or get me in for free.

Below is funny man, Chris Franjola. I bet I'm not the only one who didn't know him.



Chrissy poo



Are you there Chelsea? It's me, JDub.

Chelsea Handler will be at the Keil Savvis Scottrade Center in St. Louis tomorrow! YAHOO! I've read one or two (I can't remember) of Chelsea's books and they are ridiculously funny. I'm not particularly in love with her show, but I also don't stay up that late on a school night.. and if I'm up, I'm watching re-runs of "What Not to Wear".. or "The Mighty Ducks", but you knew that.

Are we all familiar with Chuy??? He's a 'little person' or maybe a dwarf.. or as we all really like to call 'them'.. midgets. Gross. No offense. But seriously. What's the point of him? I don't really know anything about him or them or the show or how she got her start.. all I know is what I read, and that she is HI-LAR-IOUS. And that is plenty for me.

I promise a full show recap on Monday (for ALL my readers.. whatever).

Did I mention, BUSTA IS BACK! (And full of celeb gossip..  I've heard the rumors, but never any worthy confirmation.. until NOW.. Chels and Fiddy are an item!)




She's a Jewish-Mormon.

 

Everyone look at my new shoes!

You probably want to see my new purhcase!
Purple platforms with bows! And for a steal, $31.47.

Don't Stop Till You Get Enough

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! I think it's actually All Saints Day, which means if you're in private school, you have today off. Lame. I can't really complain, I could have taken the day off. Here are some of my favorite things from Halloween.

Mummies and Bugs for Halloween Dinner.

Green Fangs at work.

Happy Halloween Bouquet from Wes.

Light up Skeleton ring!

Tattoo Sleeve at work.

Hope everyone had a fantastic Halloween!

HOLIDAYS OF THUNDER!

My favorite time of year and TOP 5 movie (Days of Thunder).

HALLOWEEN has come and gone, it seems like only yesterday.. oh wait, it was YESTERDAY! HA! This marks my most favorite time of the year.. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years!! Mostly because of paid vacation days, but in a close second are family, friends, good food, staying in my pajamas all day, new toys, festive outfits and lots of cheer!

When I was little, Mom made my costumes.. bear, cat, dragon (FAV!), unicorn.. then for like 5 years in a row I was a "beat up soccer player".. I wore my soccer uniform and had fake blood coming out of my nose. As if I wasn't in that uniform enough! In college, we got a little more creative.. ninja turtles out of scrubs and t-shirts.. mom made me into an Ice Dancer.. HUGE HIT.. I wore my HULK HANDS and called myself The Hulk.. oh and let's not forget that cat.. talk about easy!

Within the past few years, Thanksgiving has become a big hit at our house.. with lots of visitors (more attending each year) and new traditions.. including The Turkey Trot and ZOO FRIDAY (previously BLACK FRIDAY), my personal favorite..

Christmas is always very low key.. which seems like an oxymoron.. just me, mom and dad. We watch movies, eat anything we want, play in our own [ROCK] band and tie Christmas bows on the cats. Last year, I joined my boyfriend in Southern Illinois for his favorite holiday tradition.. The Eldorado Holiday Tournament (high school basketball).

What are your favorite holiday traditions???



I wore my Gramma Toodie's poodle skirt, and Gramma Wilson's scarf in my hair.



WHEEL! OF! FORTUNNNNNNNNNE!

Wheel Of Fortune auditions were in St. Louis Oct. 16 and 17 at River City Casino. Auditions were held both days, from 2-6pm. Although, the time could be debated. There were three one hour shows in the 4 hour audition period. Three on Saturday, three on Sunday. Within each one hour show, 5 contestants were chosen 5 or 6 times. And, of course, if you didn't make the first show on Saturday, you could keep re-entering until you were selected.

Constestants were selected at random. If you were lucky enough to be selected, you were summoned to the stage for a little meet and greet and a speed round with four other conestants.. There were few that impressed us. One girl totally blew it.. and there were several that were too "Price is Right."

And whatever you do, don't say you like to sing and/or dance.

There is no guarantee you made the show.. even if you were picked to be on stage and/or won the puzzle.. you have to have all the qualities "THEY" are looking for.. sort of like getting into Duke University.

On the bright(er) side.. if you weren't called up on stage, you still have a chance to make the show, just not a very good one..

Wessers wasn't selected.. but we're anxiously awaiting a ringy dingy from Pat or Vanna soon :)

This is the only pic I have (from my super awesome BlackBerry Bold 9700), the whole point of waiting this long to post this post (ha!) was to have pictures. I guess they're on my camera?



The Stage.. the wheel spins and the letters are dry erase boards.. so cool!



Something so simple..

To me this is simple (and doable!). And it totally made my day. I've been looking at it, with this wide-open-almost-gauk-like smile on my face.. and thinking to myself, "THIS IS SO COOL!"



(By Dutch artist Helmut Smits, via DesignLoveFest, via A CUP OF JO)

Mom found this for me at A CUP OF JO.

Now, who wants to try this with me? Wait, let me ask my dad if it's ok..

Negative Nancy

Today at work we had a Lunch n' Learn.. you know.. take your lunch to the training room and participate (or don't participate) in the topic of choice. People Resources offers so many options, and they send a person to present the subject to you, and hopefully a group of fellow employees.. today's presentation was entitled, "Thinking Yourself Positive." Presented by, Frank Krebs (That name probably doesn't many anything to you unless you were there..)

This hour long Lunch n' Learn was magnificent! Frank was great! The presentation turned into more of a discussion, which i think was ok with everyone. We talked about negative people in general, friends with bad attitudes, family members that are always bringing you down.. Frank offered various 'coping' mechanisms.

For example, to someone that is stuck on their little hamster wheel of misery, and is always blaming life for their misfortunes, ask them, "What problem are we solving today?" This simple question basically shocks them back into reality and will, most likely, make them question what they just complained to you about. They'll probably look at you, puzzled and say, "I don't have a problem." Oh really???????

Use "Intending".. Frank gave the example of a terrible week at work, everything so serious and important happening.. at the end of the week he had to go to a party. He didn't want to go, and considered skipping it. He told himself, he was going to go to this party, and he was going to laugh. And sure enough, within the first 10 minutes, everyone was in a fit of laughter.

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react.

How do you see the glass?

HAPPY GUEST BLOG THURSDAY!

I'm going to Guest Blog today.. is that allowed?? OF COURSE it's allowed! It's my blog!

I just came up with something ridiculously gene.. for those of you who don't follow the shortening of words phenomenon.. gene is short for genius. Get a clue here.

So, I'm browsing the web.. searching for unique and interesting things to pass my time.. And in my head pops a very small (harmless) thought.. Something that crosses my mind daily, if not, hourly.. Something that I know all women ponder, and I'm willing to bet something most men think about as well.. they just aren't as outspoken about it.. Are you ready? You better sit down.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

That's right. What else? So then I did what anyone would do (especially those of you who have the world at your fingertips, like I do).. I googled, "What should I wear?" I found a blog about shopping your closet, a book at Amazon.com, a plethora of sport get-ups and suggestions (Like, "wear a helmet").. but nothing that was helpful... and by helpful, I mean easy enough to figure out/get.

So, I thought to myself. I need a website. I need my peeps. And I need a Diet Mountain Dew.

Here's what I'm thinking..

Obviously.. www.whatshouldiwear.com no.. http://www.whatshouldiwear.net/ would be the domain.. Go big or go home, right?

I'm seeing 3 drop down boxes.. one for female or male.. one for the event.. and one for weather..

Stay with me..

I'm going to have dinner at the Boathouse in Forest Park tonight with my boo. So I go to http://www.whatshouldiwear.net/ and select: Female, Casual Dinner and Warm turning to Cold.

BOOM.

A page of six images pop up, each illustrated with a suitable outfit.. all complete with shoes and accessories.. similar to outfitidentifier.com.. And it's ok if my search pulls from other websites.. Right?

I can see I'm going to need to get the experts involved, but for now I will K.I.S.S (Keep It Simple Stupid).

And if there is already a website out there like this.. send me the link, and we'll talk. You need me.

Happy MLB Playoffs, New TV shows and T.G.I.T.D.B.F (Thank God It's The Day Before Friday.. duh)

Happy 6th Birthday, Pedro Martinez Wilson!

My mom just informed me.. It's Pedro's Birthday!!!! (Actually, we think it was yesterday.. but close enough!)

When I first met Pedro, I thought he was a girl. I named him Cinderella (Elle for short) and he fit in my hand. Around Thanksgiving he had finally turned 6 weeks old and his wittle ballsies had dropped and then WALLAH he became Pedro Martinez Wilson.. did I mention he's also Murrexican? He's from Murray, KY and obviously Mexican. If you've been lucky enough to meet the big lug you already know he's fat, crazy, chatty and uber sweet.

Here are my two favorite pics of him, I don't have many on this computer.

Pedro, the Elf

Livin' the Life

For those of you who think cats are stupid (Wes), this one is not. He knows where we live.. Pedro goes outside often, he knows where to go to let us know he wants to go out (he can choose from one of four doors) and he knows where to come back to.. although he's been lost more than once..

He can fetch.

He can turn the doorknob. On the reals.

Happy Birthday, Big Guy.

Happy Fall!

I think it's safe to say it's officially FALL!

The air is cool and crisp, and not just in the mornings..

This is the time of year for trench coats and scarves, dark nail polishes, using food for decorations (pumpkins, squash, corn.. and I love it!), football, hoodies and jeans and no more pouring with sweat after a roundtrip to the end of the driveway getting the mail!!

Mom and I ran the Lewis and Clark Half over the weekend.. we had to pull out the hot hands, earmuffs and sweatpants.. and we needed them all 2 hours 37 minutes and 25 seconds!

Half Marathon Finishers!

The Hardware.

And I finally get to wear my animal hair T-straps! (No zebras were harmed in the making of these shoes! I mean, I don't really know, I'm just assuming..) Get them here!

And, say it with me, HOODIES!!!



GOOO Racers! (Naturally..)

I don't necessarily loathe summer.. or warm climates.. I prefer cooler weather because I'm hot by nature (No pun intended!), and I'm sweaty. I just prefer to sweat when sweating is necessary.. i.e. sports, job interviews, first dates..

What are your favorite things about Fall?

Blogging..

Happy Friday!

So, I've totally been searching for fun, funny, fabulous blogs to pass my time [at work]. I 'follow' 4 other blogs at this time. And by 'follow' I mean, check out almost regularly... in addition to my fav celeb's websites (Khloe, Kourt, Whitney Port)... I'm really enjoying this little searchy search.

I totally dig 9to5 Chic. Lots of great ideas and inspiration and clothes!

And of course, reading, Eat Play Love by Amanda Kemezys, consider it her basketball diary.

And for the record, Musselman's Applesauce is WAY better than Mott's.

Have a great weekend!

Loves!

Keep Your Fantasies To Yourself!

Happy GUEST BLOG THURSDAY!!!

Today's guest blogger: Michael "Gooch" Juenger
Celeb Status: HUGE!

Gooch is expecting a baby GIRL any moment, she'll be named Jessica.. Awwwww

First and foremost I would like to apologize to anyone out there who plays these “games”. After all, it is not you that decides I am not taking part in all of this “non time consuming” (so you say) collaboration of pro-athlete all-stars in a stadium/arena/field of make believe. Now don’t get me wrong I like watching sports, I don’t get crazy like some people, but I like to watch. I even sometimes enjoy talking about the game the next day at work, or other social event. Those conversations usually end about 5 to 10 minutes after the highlights are hit.

Back to fantasy sports… I’m going to pick on football since that just started.. I have been asked multiple times if I wanted to join in on the fantasy extravaganza. I’ve been told, "you don’t have to follow it too closely and there’s not much work that you have to put in." I then attended a fantasy football draft (after I had already disagreed to playing). Ridiculous is the one word that came to mind.. well, really there was another word that came before that but we’re going to keep this clean folks. There were papers, charts, graphs, diagrams, spreadsheets, folders, dry-erase boards; I think I even saw some binders that probably held a dissertation on the art of fantasy sports. I’m pretty sure you need to have some kind of knowing of what’s going on there. That seems like a little more preparation than oh say making dinner or even researching what kind of TV I would get to watch these magnificent sports games on. Not to mention, the draft itself. I’m pretty sure it was an all day affair. Even after the draft itself was over, hours were spent talking about what went on. Then you have to decide on who’s “playing” and who’s riding the pine pony. You have to decide if you want to take someone’s offer to trade. I’m counting the work hours of consideration and thoughts this is taking already.

That’s what makes this whole thing a bigger pain than what it really is. Maybe I don’t understand the necessity because I refuse to take part in this. You never stop talking about what’s going on. “Who won last night?” “Who’s in first place?” “Can you believe so and so is trading this person?” “You should bench this guy and play that guy; he’s on a hot streak.” “I had 125 points sitting on the bench because I didn’t get online and make a switch.” This gets to be more than just water cooler talk and can last upwards of 30 to 45 minutes.. while more and more people surround your desk, each talking louder than the other, because you sit by Mr. Fantasy who started the conversation in the first place. Back to the point at hand, as this is not about where I sit at work, that’s a whole other story.. It’s great that you want to pretend you’re the manager of this amazing team you dreamed up one day, but how much do you have to talk about it. I mean some people host a party to select your dream team, how about you have a weekly meeting where you can get it out of your system. Go to a bar, have the boys over for a barbecue, find somewhere else to talk about this other than work day after day. Although I appreciate the bump in my stats from having to pick up your slack, I don’t want to have to do extra work from you lallygagging around in your dreamland.

NEWS FLASH: the "DREAM TEAM" has already been established.. it's called TEAM USA.. duh.. (not to be confused with the Mighty Ducks).
 
Thanks, Goochers! You da Man.
 
DISCLAIMER: Jill and Mike are expecting. However, they are keeping the sex of the bundle of joy a secret. It may not be a girl, and "Jessica" is not on their list.

MICHELLE'S DANCE BENEFIT! TONIGHT!

Tonight is the night!

MICHELLE'S DANCE BENEFIT!



We love you!

Michelle passed away Sept. 12, 2010

Her perseverance, positive attitude and kind spirit will live on through all of us.

Tonight, we celebrate Michelle.

Where: O'Fallon VFW

When: Doors open at 6pm, music starts at 7pm!

Look forward to: Door prizes, DJ and Dancing, Silent Auction, Live Auction, Mostaccioli Dinner, including bread and salad! Free Keg Beer, Soda and Snacks!

You're welcome to: BYOB, snacks, and FULL WALLETS to bid on the amazing items being auctioned!

Get in the raffle to win a 46" Flat Screen, LCD screen TV.. we have TWO, which means.. yep, you guessed it! TWO WINNERS!

• $5 for 1 ticket
• $20 for 5 tickets

Get in the raffle to win a pair of FABULOUS patio rockers!

• $1 for 1 ticket
• $5 for 6 tickets

Hold your horses for the following items that will be auctioned LIVE: 50" Samsung Plasma TV, 32GB iPad, SAM ADAMS Smoker, Brand Spankin' New Cleveland Golf Bag.. to name a few because I can't remember them all!

So far we have raised over $11,000!

Come enjoy the party! Wear your dancin' shoes!

Contact yours truly for questions!

The Gory Details

In honor of SWEEPS WEEK and the return of Grey's Anatomy.. I'd like to dedicate this post to my first... well, probably like my third love.. Blood, guts, scabs, scars and compound fractures..

For every one's sake.. This will be a condensed version.. complete with injury, approximate date, and favorite memory/short story about said injury. No pictures for all you weenies!! Oh, I'm excited!

PRE-K

• First Head Injury: Weapon: Kitchen Counter. Stitches: Absolutely! My cranium chipped a pretty impressive piece of laminate! And the counter top was left that way until it was replaced in 2001.. I think.. as a tribute to me! Thanks, Mom!
• Second Head Injury: Lost my legs getting out of the shower, hit my brain stem on the tracks that the shower doors slide in.. no stitches necessary.
• Not Quite A Head Injury: Culprit: Superglue. This one deserves details!--I was helping my dad fit his bowling balls.. sandpaper, superglue and scissors.. a recipe for disaster! I superglued my finger to my cheek, pieces of hair to my cheek and my eyelashes to my eyebrow.. And once Dad noticed, he did what any great dad would do.. he pulled my finger from cheek and told my mom to take me to the hospital. After all, Dad had just been there with me the week before (See above, "Second Head Injury")!
• So Glad It Wasn't My Head: I shut my whole hand in Dad's car door. However, there was no mess.. just a small puncture wound! Nothing a Cookie Monster band-aid couldn't fix! I went to the hospital eventually, had to splint my wrist in an extended position and butterfly the wound closed. I was very cool at day-care the next day! This was my first memorable scar.

Circa 1990

• William Shat-ter (get it?): I was sitting next to an old(er) entertainment center.. the magnetic glass door shattered all over my outstretched left leg.. immediately I started to cry because I thought my dad would be mad at me! I remember being ok, once I wasn't in trouble. Then, all of a sudden, there was blood everywhere! It was beautiful! I was totally impressed by myself! I made mom get the camera!
• Windy Recess: In first grade, just got in from recess.. had something in my eye. Mrs. Bateman sent me to the nurse. Mrs. McKibbin (nurse) called Mom, we went to the hospital. I had very small piece of metal embedded in my cornea (Protective cover over the blue).. This was my first experience with anesthesia.. it wasn't pretty.. but Tuggie was there to protect me, along with Mom and Dad. I think it was about a 5 minute procedure. And I didn't even need a patch! Lucky for me, next day at school was show-n-tell. I brought the piece of metal.

Somehow, I managed to play it pretty safe the rest of Elementary School and throughout Middle School.

There were the occasional rolled ankles, blistered hands and feet, but nothing needing staples.. unless I'm forgetting something? Perhaps a third head injury?

High-School

• First Broken Finger: Left pinky. Sport: Basketball. Diagnosis: Mallet Finger. See ya later extensors.. had to splint my pinky past 180 degrees, otherwise it would never be straight again! Tear.
• Second Broken Finger? First Cast: Right thumb. Sport: Soccer. Diagnosis: BUSTED! Unfortunately, my coach tried to pull out the nonexistent jam, ultimately making the initial break worse! Who knew a broken thumb could become more broken! After a full day of soccer, mom picked me up and we went straight to the hospital. I had minimal swelling, couldn't move the thing and here's the kicker.. no bruising. Dr. Otis took an X-ray.. definitely broken, definitely too broken, definitely need surgery to pin the joint. Rats. Getting the pins out is another story. But there are pictures! Oh, and my cast was neon yellow. Perfect for summer!
• Third Broken Finger: Right Pinky. Sport: Soccer. I pulled this girl's jersey.. there I said it.
• Lost My Suspenders And My Belt: The ultimate injury to most female soccer players (in some form or another).. Torn ACL, torn Medial Meniscus, torn Lateral Meniscus. Enjoy your Senior year.. FROM THE bench. Piss. It wasn't a total loss, I did pick us up some pretty special guys on our Senior trip to the Bahamas with my bad ass scar. You're welcome.

College

• Fourth Broken Finger: Left Pinky. Sport: Basketball. Fortunately, this was the only "real" injury I sustained during my college career.. Injury: Avulsion Fracture.. listen to me and all my science-y goodness.. Golf coach was slightly perturbed. I told her to stuff it.. but not to her face.
• Bursitis is a Bia Bia: Right Scapula. This inflammation of the bursa sac is no elementary injury.. sounds weak, I know.. But I've never been in so much pain, I thought I busted a rib (or six), I couldn't breathe, sleep or eat.. comfortably.. Thanks to dad for trafficking me some supersonic drugs (muscle relaxers and ibuprofen, don't get carried away)!

I hope Grey's Anatomy is as exciting as that was! Oh Boy!

T.G.I.F

Some Friday's are just way more crucial than others. And I missed GUEST BLOG THURSDAY, again.. Second Blogger's foul in two weeks, I'm embarrassed.

So let's devote this fabulous Friday to two things: A guest blog from THE Mary Rybicki and a chat about accesories/accessorizing.

See Mare's "Ode to Scarves" below:

Scarves……


I would like to start this by saying, I am not much for the accessory. As cute as they all are, give me a pair of earrings from Wal-Mart and I am set to go. But, over the last year, I have become a HUGE fan of wearing scarves. I am talking ANY kind of scarf. Scarves are the absolute best accessory you can get these days. Not only do they add color to any outfit you wear but they also replace a necklace. They jazz up any outfit.

Working in an office, I am expected to dress business casual/professional. Let me just say, I have stretched the limits on what is considered “business casual”. I have tried every way possible to get away with being as casual as possible without people calling me out. Last year I discovered that I can wear a V-neck t with a scarf and people automatically think it is dressy. It is amazing! I have worn the v-neck without a scarf and my boss makes a comment on my casual attire. Throw a scarf around my neck and he thinks it looks so nice!


Another good use for a scarf is when your shirt/dress is a little bit lower cut than appropriate for an office setting. I have been asked why I am wearing a scarf when it is 90 degrees outside. My response, “I wanted to wear this shirt and it is inappropriate for work”. I usually get a very puzzled look and a head nod. I love that the sole purpose of a scarf is no longer soley to keep your neck warm….

Why are you so dressed up?

I too am a minimal accessorizer.. usually because i forget or am running late, it takes at least 17 extra seconds to run back upstairs and grab a bracelet! Accessorizing isn't easy.. overaccessorizing is.

My favorite these days is a long necklace. From a single chain and chunky charm to a beaded strand, a necklace makes everything better.. I even love wearing a long necklace with a ruffled t or tank.. It might be the J.Crew in me, but I just love it! So RIGHT NOW.



Tank + Necklace



Similar Tank + Scarf



Necklace + Ruffles



Necklace + More Ruffles



Not bad, eh?





Texas!

Over Labor Day weekend, Mom and I went to Texas for our annual reunion with the Merenda's.

The Merenda's.. consisting of Jeanne, Sam, John and Julie, lived two houses down from us/my parents until like 1996.. when they moved to Dallas. They were definitely an original and vital part to our very exclusive cul-de-sac clique.

Mom and I had a great time! We arrived Friday evening, Jeanne was waiting for us right outside baggage claim! We got in the car and headed to our home for the next 3 days. When we got to the house, we were greeted by Libby and new puppy, Maizy.



Maizy



Libby



We dropped our bags, slipped off our shoes and headed to the kitchen for some eats and drinks. First order of business.. the traditional shot of something (this time, Lemon Drop).. cheers-ing to friends, fun and The Hills (NOT the TV show). We made our way to the patio for some much needed catching up.. getting the who's, what's, when's, where's and how's of the past year!



Saturday morning, after yours truly FINALLY woke up, we cleaned up and made our way to see Julie's new house! It's gorgeous, of course, and was looking quite home-y! Julie is a young, hot mama, married to Cory and has two adorable boys.. Jake, 4 and Cole, 2. After visiting Julie and the boys we made our way back to Jeanne's for an afternoon at the pool! We put on our floppy hats and SPF and filled our pretty little heads with all the celeb gossip we could get our hands on!



Sun Goddesses

Sam arrived home from a hunting trip Saturday mid-afternoon. Just in time to take us girls out to dinner! We ate at Rock Fish and it was delicious! Don't worry, Ben and Jerry's was right next door, perfect for a little dessert!

Sunday morning we met Karin, another former neighbor that migrated to Dallas, for breakfast at Old West.. this place was packed! After breakfast, Jeanne, Mom and I roamed around Old Grapevine! What a GREAT place! Grapevine neighbors Flower Mound and Old Grapevine is their historic district, in case you couldn't figure that out! We popped in every shop along Main Street, wreaking havoc on most stores and store owners. Our last stop on Main Street was Willhoite's, a gas station turned restaurant and bar. Definitely a hot spot for our "biker" friends. Also, visited by Bonnie and Clyde!

See the old gas pump front and center?

After conquering main street, we moved on to Arlington for some more shopping! We emptied our pockets at Shepler's (Hello! Red Cowboy Boots!) and headed home to recharge for the evening! We spent our last night in Texas at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center (Official Hotel of the Dallas Cowboys! HOLLER!). Jeanne, Julie, Mom and I had a delicious dinner at Texan Station.



Looking up from the very center of the Gaylord Texan.

We caught a plane home Monday morning. Another successful trip!











It's not Goodbye.. It's see you in October, November, February, March and probably April

She's number 18 in your programs, and #1 in our hearts. No, not me..

People always get Buss mixed up with Mariah Carey.

She's BUSS.. does anyone know her first name??

Buss is our best friend. She's the wind beneath our wings, the peanut butter to our jelly, the ranch dressing to my tuna casserole, she's the "I'm" to my "bored"... She's gorgeous, genuine, kind, hilarious, loveable, generous, trustworthy, humble, smart.. what's a synonym for hilarious?

Buss is the life of the party, and not even on purpose... she has this magnetic personality oozing with charisma, she's borderline irresistable.. not to mention a great joke teller.. have you heard this one?

"What's the difference between an orange?"

Buss came to us (St. Louis) in October-ish of 2009.. Obviously, with a very warm reception.

Here is my tribute in pictures and words.. to Buss, Busta, Bussie, Buster, Busta Rhymes, Neebs.. err.. Sarah??? No, that doesn't sound right...

In no particular order.. obviously..

Shauna came to town! After being deported from Amsterdam, is that a secret??

L to R: Buss, Jill, Shauna, Mary, Emily, Abby

Buss certainly went to her fair share of St. Louis Cardinals games. If she wasn't a fan before, she certainly is now! And a damn good one!

FANatics!

Ahhh.. the Roommates.. 

Buss is everyone's preferred 3rd Wheel: Buss, Jill and Mike.. forever.

We're all big soccer fans.. If you don't wake up at 3am to catch the games LIVE, then you suck.

Buss and Emily cheering on Spain, World Cup 2010 Final.
Lucky for these two, and really for all of us.. the Final match is played early afternoon.

Play date or Book Club???

Kimmy, Claire and Ava, Emily, Buss, Jill, Jackie, Mary, Molly and Abby

Buss's signature artwork, this is generally how she leaves her mark.

This one left in sidewalk chalk..

The ladies of Xanadu, our HHI traveling, sleeping, eating, swimming, tanning, dancing, boring group!

Jill, Mary, Me, Buss, Emily and Kim

Where is this one? Are you quacks at a bar?? On a Monday night!

Quacks: Buss, Jax, Sara, Leslie

I wouldn't have changed my seat for anything.. except money..

With the luggage: Me, Buss and Emily

And so I leave you/us with this:
"It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

See you soon!!

Happy Hump Day!