Day Two-Three Vacation

First, I must post that we do not have a crib. We went to pick it up on Tuesday and there was a huge confusion with very crappy customer service. They wanted to give us the floor model in pieces without any boxes or wrapping of any kind. These were items promised. After discovering that Babies-R-Us did not have anything to protect our crib from itself, we opted for our money returned.

Otherwise, Tuesday was a wonderful day. We slept in, drove downtown, visited my Sweetie’s office, and had lunch at Chipotle – mmmmmm bols. After, we walked to the Austin Museum of Art and the ArtHouse (Contemporary Gallery).

The Austin Museum of Art has a wonderful display of Andy Goldsworthy. His work is simply amazing. My Sweetie and I love galleries and museums so we ate up this display. While walking back to the car, we stopped in at the ArtHouse. The current exhibit is Lounge and consists of several chair swings from the ceiling. They were very comfortable. It was a wonderful outing. The night was not ruined by Babies-R-Us. We went to a nice dinner and finished the evening with me beating my Sweetie with another game of Monopoly.

Yesterday was yet another lazy day. We slept late, played with legos, ate lunch, and headed to a Baby furniture store that we found on-line. After a long drive, we discovered that the store is no longer in business. However, we did find ourselves near Terra Toys. This is an awesome toy store. Toys define my sweetie and me ad much as museums and galleries. We had so much fun. Toy stores are so different now – at least for us – we look at items we want for our baby and which items are not appropriate. All in all – these outings make us simply long for our new little guest. There was a turn of events last night. We played Monopoly again. This time I lost. I must get back my winning streak – lol.

This week is so wonderful. I love spending time with my Sweetie. He is wonderful and my perfect match.

Day One of Vacation Complete

This week is our vacation. Since we are saving for a baby - we vacation from home. Yesterday was deemed lazy. We succeeded in our goals. We slept late and enjoyed waking after others found themselves within the working day. My Sweetie made me cinnamon drop biscuits for breakfast - sooooo yummy. After several hours of magazine reading and surfing the Internet (once again I love wireless) we decided to go shopping. OK, so actually it was my need for pants that got us out of the house. My pregnant belly is too large for my pants. I refuse to spend the crazy prices for maternity pants so I bought jeans two sizes larger. I must say nothing makes you feel thin than jeans almost falling off. For now I will enjoy the feeling :-) My Sweetie was so wonderful and stated that he did not care about the price of the pants; he simply wanted me happy and comfortable.

The next stop was the best. We went to look at the crib we want again. My Sweetie was so worried that they would no longer have the one we fell in love with. On the way, I had this strong feeling that he was correct – that they no longer make our model – but I knew we could get it – I even had the feeling that we would get the crib at a reduced price due to purchasing the floor model. Also, keep in mind that my only hesitation on this crib was the fact that it was 100 over what I wanted to pay. Now I have had ESP before. I am happy to say that this time was not for something horrible, like normal. We went to the store discovered the company that makes the crib went out of business – not due to recalls or any safety reasons. To top this off due to BabysRUs policy if a damaged box enters the store, they must open and assemble it. Once assembled it must go onto the floor. If there is already this model on display, the new one sells for 30% off. Weren’t we happy to see this crib marked down? Nothing is wrong with it. But we did pay more than 100 off the original price, and making the after tax price close to the price I had in my head. So I was right, they no longer make the crib, we were able to get the crib, and we did receive the floor model at a reduced price, and I knew we would spent about 200 on a crib. Now this does not include the mattress, but we are very happy. We pick it up today. We still have a lot to move out of the room, so I cannot put it together tonight, although I would love to ☺

Dinner was at home – Sweetie made me a wonderful dinner. We ate and enjoyed Simpson’s Monopoly – I won!!!! It was a wonderful lazy day.

Now on to today – Arts and Downtown day.

A Very Merry Christmas

We had a Very Merry Christmas.

Christmas Eve was wonderful. My Sweetie and I hosted our normal gathering. The big thing about my Christmas Eve's is the tradition involved. Not so much tradition, but that each person brings something for the evening. We began the evening with origami snowmen (brought by SIL). This was great fun. The next event was from my mother with Christmas Crackers. We enjoyed the riddles, party hats, and toys. After such clean fun, it was time to get our hands dirty. I brought the event of decorating freshly bakes sugar cookies. This was wonderful. We all made several cookies. They were too beautiful to eat. My MIL offered the same tradition as last year, a taffy pull. This is always fun, esp. since we are learning a little more each year on how to make it easier. This time she added lemon extract for a very nice flavor. After finishing the taffy, we ate more of the finger foods and began on the gifts. Everyone made out with wonderful gifts.

Christmas Morning was extra special. Since this is my Sweetie and my last Christmas morning alone, we made it special. We awoke as normal and began our Christmas tradition of beginning the morning with homemade banana nut bread - provided by my mom and opening presents. Due to my New Closet, our Christmas was slightly smaller than anticipated. This means the gifts were more thought out and personal. I received gifts that prove that my Sweetie remains madly in love with me. I even had a couple of tricks up my sleeve and brought some tears to my Sweetie's eyes with how well I know him. After a slow morning with enjoying gifts and gathering all needed items, I cannot even imagine what next year will be like, we headed to my mom's. Due to my brother working on Christmas, we did not eat until close to six. The food was wonderful and we even played a game of Ninja Burger. My SIL (brother's wife) held a chain and pendant (really an earring) over my belly - according to this I am having a boy - we shall see.

Today was another wonderful day. After the normal grocery shopping, my mother, Sweetie, and I headed over to MotoDiva's for a Boxing Day dinner. Everyone was there and we enjoyed a relaxed day of food and conversation. Before we knew it, the time was past 10:30 and time to head home.

This next week is very special for my Sweetie and me. We both have the next week off and will treat it like a vacation. This is a weeklong celebration of our 7-year anniversary. I am not sure how much I will be able to post during this time, but I will try.

This Christmas was exactly what I wanted. I am so very happy with the memories acquired during this time. Next year will be even better.

Hello Kitty Star Fairy

I'm Hello Kitty Star Fairy! made by:Jen

Last Workday of the Year

Yes, poor little me, is watching the clock for my last 22 minutes of work for 2004. I have tomorrow and all of next week off. This is a great feeling because my Sweetie also has this time off (less tomorrow that is). We are going to treat it as a week long anniversary celebration. I can't wait.

Last night's Yule dinner was so wonderful. 14 of my favorite people around a large table makes for a cozy evening. Luckily Dark Diva used a very large table that was her mother's so there was enough room for all. After a dinner of goose, mashed potatoes, and cranberries, we enjoyed a walk down to the Lago Vista lake. The sky was wonderful for us. Without needing a flashlight we walked by moonlight. The water and the scene of everyone at this location was very surreal. It reminded me of something out of a movie or a video game. The older of DarkDiva's girls loved this scene. Playing by moonlight was second nature to her (she will be 3 next month). Once again I felt overwhelmed with the comfort that I feel around these people from all walks of life.

During the night we also made plans for Boxing Day (December 26th). Motodiva wants to make a large Christmas dinner. Since everyone has plans on Christmas day, she opted for the day after. This meal should have even more lovely people than the Yule dinner. I think it will be a perfect way to end the holiday weekend. The newest member of our group will also attend this dinner with her family. I can't wait to meet her daughter - she is just over 1, the same age as DarkDiva's youngest.

This Christmas season has been wonderful so far. I know it will only get better. I am feeling a lot of peace and comfort lately. This makes me smile.

I am off to head home, take a nap, and begin cleaning for Christmas eve. All is good.

Yule, Anniversary, and Contemplation

Today is the first day of winter. This is also a very special day - 31 years ago today my parents went to the courthouse and entered into the wonderful world of marriage. Although my father only lived to celebrate 24 anniversaries with my mother, she considers today her anniversary, and a special day, as much as ever.

My parents were very much in love and endured their fair share of hard times - and I think they also took on enough hard times for others as well. However, my growing up was always filled with happiness, even when times were hard. I am thankful for the hard times, they taught me to adapt when needed (like when my Sweetie was out of his industry for a couple of years and money was very tight) and to appreciate when things are going well.

My mother is the strongest woman I know. After losing my father, she was left with little insurance, out of date job skills, and a house to maintain. The catch was that she bought the house so long ago that the mortgage was cheaper than moving to a smaller place. My father has been gone for a little over 7 years. During this time, she paid off her house, found a great job where she was reintroduced to the working world (she worked with my father for 15 years in the family business). She became computer literate and even when she found herself unemployed due to a lay off, she continued to help the company that could no longer afford her. She is now in a position that she loves and that I hope will remain challenging. She handles tragedy and situations the way I do, one day at a time. We know we can overcome anything. As I am sure you can tell, we are extremely close.

I know she misses him terribly today. I cannot blame her. I try to cherish everyday with my Sweetie knowing that something can happen at any moment and take all this wonderfulness away. We must appreciate those we have, while we still have them.

I think my parents’ anniversary helped to choose my wedding date (and the college calendar). I always associated their anniversary with Christmas. My Sweetie and I will celebrate 7 years on January 3rd. Much like my parents, we endured our fair share, and then some, of hard times. However, I am happy to say that we kept our faith and focused on our love and finish our 7th year stronger than ever before.

Tonight to celebrate Yule, and to make sure that my mom gets out of the house, we are going to DarkDiva's house for Yule dinner. This should be wonderful. The whole clan should be there, except for MotoDiva's husband who is in Afghanistan. I cannot wait. I simply adore these women. They are strong, intelligent, and unique. They are unlike any past friends, mostly with the intelligent and strength issues. We are not like a click in high school. We do not dress alike or speak alike. If you saw us apart, you might never guess we are good friends. Our ages range from 28-37 (shhhh she claims she is 35 and 30 months). While we are all married, these relationships are as different as we are.

Tonight we will dine and enjoy each other’s company. During the long drive to DarkDiva’s house, I will ask my mom to tell me the story of how my father proposed and about their wedding day.

Whether you are celebrating Yule, winter, an Anniversary, or simply a Tuesday I hope your evening is wonderful and magical.

Kidnapping, jeans, lights, and Whataburger

First I must say that I am wearing my favorite jeans - buttoned and all - Don't even ask, I have no clue.

Second, on to the weekend.

This weekend was so eventful.

Friday
I took Friday off from work to complete Christmas shopping - almost done - and to relax. The real reason is that I lose vacation time if I do not use it - I know poor me. Friday was so productive. I had a great time shopping. I spent some quality time with myself. It was a beautiful day that did not require a jacket.

Friday night
Friday night my Sweetie and I went with MIL, SIL, niece, Grandfather-in-law, SIL's boyfriend, and my mother to see the Trail of Lights. It was wonderful and not too chilly. My niece (8) and I spent most of the time together enjoying the lights and atmosphere. We had such a good time my Sweetie and I took her home with us to spend the night. All in all, a wonderful family outing.

Saturday
Saturday we took my niece shopping. She was so wonderful. She really is a great kid. The best part was as we were leaving she saw the Salvation Army bell ringer and asked to give some money. That made my day.

Saturday night
Date Night!!! This week was the complete opposite from the week before. We dressed up more for Ballet Austin's Nutcracker. While our clothing was fancier the dinner was less fancy than the week before. We went to Whataburger for a nice fast dinner. Whataburger holds a lot of sentiment for us so in no way do we consider it as unworthy. Afterwards we headed to Bass Concert Hall. The Mice greeted us at the door offering programs of the event. That was so very cute. We bought a soldier for our Christmas tree, very cute. The show was wonderful. The children seated around us were all angels. The only situation with a child was when a baby boy tried to crawl on stage during the production. It was quite funny to see the father pull him back. Afterwards we enjoyed a romantic dessert at the Cheesecake Factory. The evening was a wonderful one filled with exactly what we needed - us.

Sunday
After an early start with the grocery store, I met DarkDiva, MotoDiva, Best Friend, and a new member of our group for a late lunch. This was a wonderful meal that turned into a day outing. My Sweetie dropped me off so I was bound to go with my friends wherever they led me. After lunch we went to the Arabic Christmas Bizarre to watch some belly dancing. The woman was very impressive and two of my friends are going to take classes to learn the art of belly dancing. After the belly dancing we took a small break to enjoy some coffee and conversation. At this point the newest member had to leave our adventure. Next stop Toy Joy
Which is a very neat toy store filled from floor to ceiling and open until midnight. After almost two hours in this store, and not seeing everything, we headed to the Armadillo Christmas Bizarre. This is a very Austin tradition with artists and live music. We had a blast. We finished the evening at Magnolia Cafe. By the time I got home I was exhausted and happy.

This week should be very laid back. I believe most are out of the office, which is good for me. I am hoping to work half days today through Wednesday with Thursday through January 3rd off. Hope it works out for me :-)

In case anyone is keeping score

Today we hit a milestone. I officially cannot button my jeans. Now keep in mind that I wore these jeans on Monday - they were a little tight but I could button them. Since I have lost weight so far, I know it is all baby. So today I have my pants only zipped like I had to do when I had my belly button pierced. The jeans fit everywhere else except my belly. This is so funny.

Things about me

Stolen from Sister in law...THANK YOU!!!!

THREE NAMES YOU GO BY:
1. Melissa
2. Missy
3. Mouse

THREE SCREEN NAMES YOU HAVE HAD:
1. edited for your protection
2. edited for your protection
3. edited for your protection

THREE THINGS YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF:
1. Emotionally strong
2. have a good time
3. When I set my mind to something - I achieve it

THREE THINGS YOU DON'T LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF:
1. Sometimes get too stressed
2. Procrastinate
3. Like control

THREE PARTS OF YOUR HERITAGE:
1. Irish
2. Polish
3. Russian

THREE THINGS THAT SCARE YOU:
1. Losing family
2. Losing family
3. Losing family

THREE OF YOUR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS:
1. My Sweetie
2. Family and friends
3. My pooh bear

THREE THINGS YOU ARE WEARING RIGHT NOW:
1. Jeans
2. Sweatshirt
3. Loafers

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE BANDS (or artists (at the moment)):
1. Sarah McLachlan
2. Nora Jones
3. Tori Amos

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE SONGS AT PRESENT:
1. Answer
2. Do what you have to do
3. Baby Mine

THREE NEW THINGS YOU WANT TO TRY IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS:
1. Have a baby!
2. Complete school
3. Pass CPA

THREE THINGS YOU WANT IN A RELATIONSHIP (love is a given):
1. Trust
2. Communication
3. Laughter

TWO TRUTHS AND A LIE
1. I can overcome anything in my life with the proper support system
2. I like to be silly
3. All I care about is material things and fashion

THREE PHYSICALITY'S THE OPPOSITE SEX HAVE THAT APPEAL TO YOU:
1. Be my Sweetie
2. Wonderful waistline
3. Great butt

THREE THINGS YOU JUST CAN'T DO:
1. Word scrambles
2. Get to work early on a regular basis
3. Drink anything warm for the first drink in the morning

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES:
1. Hanging with my Sweetie doing anything
2. Walking
3. Going to dinner with friends

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO REALLY BADLY RIGHT NOW:
1. Sleeping
2. Christmas shopping
3. Reading

THREE CAREERS YOU'RE CONSIDERING:
1. Stay at home mom
2. Work for a non-profit
3. Auditor

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE:
1. Complete a full marathon
2. Go back to Disney World
3. Get to a better place with several personal issues

Most Fantastic of Weekends

This weekend was action packed and wonderful.

Friday night we decorated my mom's tree. Due to my brother being sick - it was just my sweetie, my mom, and I. We ventured out for dinner since it was the three of us. I was good and enjoyed myself while watching what I ate. It is nice to know that the waiter will not look at you funny if all you order is soup. Afterwards the tree came together beautifully.

Saturday started early with shopping with my mom. We left my Sweetie to his own devices since she wanted to shop for him :-) We were very productive, energetic, and had a wonderful time. I got home in time for a nap with my Sweetie before getting ready for our date.

Saturday night was perfect. We went to dinner at East Side Cafe. If you are ever in Austin, you should really try it. The location is a home that they converted to an intimate dining atmosphere. They have their own organic garden from which the vegetables and herbs arrive. The food was fantastic, it was my Sweetie and my first time to eat there - my Sweetie heard about it and wanted to take me, thinking I would eat up the atmosphere. He was so correct. The food, however, was beyond words. I had the beef tenderloin, garlic mashed potatoes, and salad. While I could only eat half of it because of my reduced appetite, my Sweetie did not mind finishing my portions. We finished with sharing a dessert. My Sweetie is not a big dessert fan. However, this time he ate the majority of the pie and scraped all crumbs off the plate. That says a lot.

After dinner was the Concert. We saw the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. It was awesome. They provide music with a rock edge - such as Christmas with rock, or rock opera. My favorite song of theirs is Christmas Eve, which has Carol of the Bells. This is our favorite Christmas Carol. Hearing it in person is even more intense and wonderful. The concert was more like two concerts in one. The first half was Christmas Eve and Other Stories - which in and of itself is a story told by these wonderful songs. The second half is the band playing other songs. One song that they played is coming from the album that they are currently working. It could not have been for fitting for my Sweetie and I; they played O Fortuna from Carmina Burana. This is a very special song for my Sweetie and I. Not only is it a wonderful piece of musical genius, it is also the first Symphony production that we attended. We will always remember this evening. Moreover, to hear it with the rocked out version at this concert brought out all our emotions.

Due to my lack of party animal status at this time, I was exhausted when the concert let out at 10:30. We got home around 11 and headed to bed. It was a very eventful day and I was tuckered out.

Sunday was the normal running around with lunch with friends before the grocery store. It was so good to see them again.

Now I am back at work. It is a cold day so I am seepy. I want to go home and crawl into bed. Alas, tonight my Sweetie and I are going Christmas shopping. That will be a lot of fun. I must find a second wind first.

Today is slow

After a whirlwind last few weeks, today is a blessing and a curse. Today is a slow day. Sure there is work for me to do, but I do not want to and nothing has a deadline closer than three weeks out. So here I sit. This is not bad. I am catching up on my surfing - shhhhhh. I am very tired today, but having another good day. I think I might sneak out early and take a nap before my Sweetie gets home. If nothing else, I will go and sit on my swing and enjoy my backyard.

I love time in-between semesters it is the best. This is my last time to experience this in-between semester time. Last night, I started re-reading one of my favorite series of books, The Chronicles of Narnia. The first book is The Magician's Nephew; although some incorrectly believe that the first book is the Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe - which is the second in the series.

I am so excited about Saturday. I will begin the day shopping with my mom and end it on a date with my Sweetie. I cannot ask for a better day.

Windy City, Closet Madness, Appointment Update

I am sitting in the swing my Sweetie bought me for my b-day (and put together while I was out of town). I love wireless internet. I am very happy and trying to think of everything that I need to post. The sky is a beautiful pink and blue. It looks like cotton candy. I think the colors are very appropriate considering my mood today.

Today is day two of feeling good and day three of my 2nd trimester. Monday was really bad with morning sickness for over 24 hours.

Chicago was good. I missed my Sweetie so much. I got to see snow and a cool museum though. I came home to a fully renovated closet. New paint and new shelving, with everything neatly put away. It was/is amazing.

We had another appointment on Friday. Baby is much bigger than a month ago. His/her back was to us while lying on its side. What we did see is a beautiful spine and a bit of a dance. My husband was so happy.

I am finally allowing myself to become excited since we are past the most dangerous time for miscarriages. And it is hitting me hard core. I love being pregnant. I love my belly - I started really showing the week of Thanksgiving. I believe this is my last week for my jeans. My Sweetie laughs about it. The funny thing is that my clothing fits everywhere excpet the belly. And I know it is all for baby since I have lost 7.5 pounds.

The funny thing is my Sweetie. He is so into this whole process. And he can't stop touching my belly, or my newly enlarged boobies (but I digress). He loves that I am starting to look pregnant and he loves going to the doctor's appointments with me. While in the waiting room I asked if he felt uncomfortable. He said no and that everyone knew why he was there, since few men (other than doctors) enter the office. He beams with pride and I can't blame him.

The hormones are hitting me hard as well. I started crying last night with the Nestle Tollhouse commercial about little hands. Then I got so frustrated that I cried harder when my Sweetie pointed out that I was acting pregnant. Today was the same situation. On the way to and from work I listen to the all holiday music channel (Chrismas is my favorite time of year). It was the first time for me to hear "Mary did you know" this season. This is one of my favorite and I cried and cried.

I am happy and that is all that matters. My Sweetie and I have big dates planned for the next two weeks. We are going to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and the Nutcracker. This Christmas is about us since from this point on we will no longer be two.

Wonderful Thanksgiving

While the turkey took an extra hour to smoke - it was well worth the wait. Everything turned out wonderful. To a full table, with the most guests to date, we went around the table stating what we are thankful for. I began and over a chocked up voice told my Sweetie that I was most thankful for us. My mother went next telling the table that after 9 months of being out of work, she has found a job and starts Monday. My Sweetie finished. While everyone else was talking we held hands. At his turn he said "I am thankful for the family I had, the family I currently have, and the family I will have. But most importantly, I am thankful that you (looking at me) are here to hold my hand". By the end we both were teary eyed. It was perfect. We have so much to be thankful for. After the meal we played games and had a wonderful time. I simply could not have asked for a better Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It is a time for family and friends to gather and give thanks for for everything that we have.

This year I am thankful for many things. Over the past year my Sweetie and I have experienced the lowest of lows and the highest of highs. I am thankful that our relationship is stronger than ever as we anticipate the new life growing inside me.

Summary of the past year

~I walked the Motorola Half Marathon for Team in Training
~We both left jobs that were sucking the life out of us
~I became a member of DeltaMuDelta - honor society
~I received approval to sit for the CPA Uniform Test
~We both found good jobs
~We saw Sarah McLachlan in concert
~We found ourselves again and the confirmation that we are soulmates
~We created life
~We are stronger than ever before

This past year feels like a decade. So much is different from a year ago at this time, it is so much better. It is funny, sometimes you don't even know things aren't going well untill things get better. I guess it is true, it is darkest before the dawn.

My emotions - which are on high alert right now - have me deep in thought. Life is not about fairy tales. In fact, fairy tales don't exist. And you know what? I am happy about this fact. I am not perfect and my Sweetie is not perfect. Knowing this, losing this expectation of perfection, allows for pure love. I love my Sweetie unconditionally. Not many can say this. I, however, know this is true. I know that I will love him no matter what. This is why I believe we are soulmates. No matter what happens we are drawn to eachother for support.

As I sit writing this - taking a break from my ethics paper - I watch my Sweetie prepare smoking the turkey. Since it takes an hour per pound, he stays up all night preparing for the Thanksgiving feast. He has not smoked the turkey since Thanksgiving 2000 due to my Sweetie working in the service industry and such. It is so nice having him in a job he likes. He really hasn't been happy at work since the end of 2000. What a difference being happy at work makes.

I am simply so happy right now.

To sum it up:

I will be the answer at the end of the line
I will be there for you while you take the time
In the burning of uncertainty I will be your solid ground
I will hold the balance if you cant look down

Monday on Vacation

Thanksgiving is this week. Although I have experienced the worst morning sickness during the past week, I am determined to enjoy the holiday. I am home this week to use up vacation time and to finish my classes for the semester. Today is not working out to be as productive as I planned with nausea and a headache. However, I am making sure that I do not become too stressed.

The good thing is that my paper in Ethics is a topic that I am very interested in, Sarbanes Oxley Section 404. I sent questionaires to many in my company regarding the effectiveness and have been very happy with the results. Now it is time to compile my results.

The most important thing today is to try and keep food down and keep my headache away.

MY B-DAY!

Today is my b-day. Time for me to have fun and to make everything about myself. So far the day is exactly what I wanted. With a cool 40 degrees and overcast sky - I am happy. I am feeling pretty good today - with a little nausea, but that is ok. I get to go home early today (without using vacation) and that is all that matters. Of course I "should" work hard for the next 2.5 hours until it is time to leave for lunch. My boss is out today so that is going to be hard. This weekend is going to be a full celebration. Tonight is family and a couple of friends and tomorrow is just me and my Sweetie. We are not sure what we are going to do, but I want it to be grand :-)

Beautiful Day

As I have mentioned many times in this blog, I love cooler weather. I was born during a sleet storm so I am pretty sure that has something to do with it. Tomorrow is my b-day and the forecast is calling for colder weather with a percentage of rain. Oh I hope so. Don't get me wrong, I love the clear blue sky of today with the chilling winds - the kind of weather that you spread your arms out while walking, but I adore an overcast day with cold rain.

So tomorrow is my b-day. While I love my b-days, it always makes me self conscious to hear "Happy B-day" all day long at work. However, this b-day is going to be different. The top executives are taking all of finance to Pok-E-Joes for lunch tomorrow and we get to go home afterwards. YEAH ME!!!

The biggest news is that I think my morning sickness is easing up. I had to go home early on Monday because of how bad I felt along with a migraine. Tuesday morning before I got out of bed I decided I was not going to feel sick anymore. So far it has worked. No, I am not suddenly 100% better, but I am doing much better than the last week.

I am still hoping to take the 17-24th off from work. I need it for my paper, but also my sanity. Would be nice to have a long leisurely time to prepare for Thanksgiving. My semester ends on December 2nd. Right now work is talking about sending me to Chicago from 11/29-12/1, which means all school work must be done before I leave. It is for training. I am hoping I do not go, the thought of flying now is awful, not to mention my inability to stay awake, or my husband going crazy. But we shall see.

Other than that, things are great. My Sweetie and I are doing better than ever and I am really enjoying my life right now. It is funny, you don't know what pregnancy will be like until you are there, experiencing it. Other than the hormonal rush, you also begin to see the world differently. People that normally bothered you (or at least for me) don't bother me as much. I feel more secure in myself and my relationships. I am more accepting and forgiving in people's faults and mistakes. It is amazing. Everything in my life has changed and I feel stronger, more confident, and happier because of it. I feel very poetic and intelligent.

Another Day

I have not posted much during the past week because my morning sickness has gotten worse. I am sure everyone is sick of hearing about how I feel. And I am sure when I feel like this that I come across less than happy. Do not worry, I am happy.

My morning sickness was bad all weekend. Today is no different. I am wondering how long I will last at work - just wanting to crawl into my bed. Unfortunately, I have class tonight so I cannot just go home for the rest of the day. But a small nap would be nice before my late night.

This weekend was fun. It was Violet's first b-day party. I can't believe she is a year. My Sweetie and I bought a cute ornament for our Christmas tree - it is for expecting parents with 2004.

My Sweetie has been amazing. He cleaned the fridge, did laundry, and took out the trash yesterday. He takes the best care of me.

My b-day is this week. I am excited. It is my last b-day without me being a mom. It is also the start of the holidays. I can't believe it is the second week in November. Time has gone so quickly over the last 7 weeks.

Hopefully I will start feeling better and back to my old self soon.

We are at 9 weeks now.
This is what the websites say that the baby looks like now.

Amazing Day

Yesterday was amazing. We went to our first prenatal visit. My family doctor recommended this doctor so I had never met him. I was worried that we might not like him. That is so not the case. We love him. He is amazing. He made us feel like we were his only patients and that he was genuinely happy that I was having a baby. Both my Sweetie and I liked him right from the beginning. He is also a more laid back doctor - I can have coke in moderation - like one a day.

Then the most amazing thing happened. We got our first sonogram and got to see the heartbeat. The heartbeat was what I was looking forward to. This is a good sign that the pregnancy will not miscarry. Not only did we see the heartbeat, we saw a strong and steady heartbeat. The doctor said that it is a healthy baby. My Sweetie and I both teared up when we saw it. We knew I was pregnant, but to see it - that was amazing. We got to see what we made - that our love created life. And that our life will never be the same.

Everything looks good. The doctor said we will get better pictures during the next visit. The only thing is that my uterus is tilted forward - while I am more tilted than most, I am not out of the range of normal. I think it is why I am starting to show. My weight is good. Have not gained since I found out I was pregnant - so I am technically down since getting pregnant. They also took blood for a wide variety of tests - unless something is bad, I will not get the results until our next visit on December 1st.

I told my work yesterday after the appointment. Let me just say that I told two people at one hour before I left yesterday. Almost everyone I know knew yesterday, or at least this morning. Word travels fast around here.

I am a mouse

If you ask my Sweetie, I am a mouse everyday. However, today others can see this trait. My work allowed everyone to dress up in their Halloween costumes. I am the cutest little mouse. My Sweetie even made sure to take a picture of me this morning because I look so cute.

My company had a happy hour of sorts to celebrate. We had cookies as big as yo face and apple cider. Because I was dressed up I got a kewl pen that lights up and a stress ball. Lots of fun.

Now I am ready to go home.

Wonderful Morning

I know everyone is sick of hearing me talk about being - sick. So I won't discuss it for this post.

In fact, I am doing pretty good. I slept wonderfully last night and I actually woke up hungry. Today seems more like the morning sickness that I was having before week 6 - the general sense of nausea and lack of appetite. I can handle this.

I also woke up in a great mood.

Everything in my life is changing. It is scary. The last 5.5 weeks have been crazy. I sit here rather numb, trying to take it all in. I trust in God that everything is happening for a reason. I trust that it wasn't only fertility, but fate stepping in and planting the future.

I cannot wait until Monday and our appointment. I know that my Sweetie is going to tear up. He did when we found out that I am pregnant. It is going to make it real. He is so into this whole situation. He is talking to my belly, pampering me, and is so excited to experience the whole process. I know he is going to make a wonderful father. At least that is one worry that I do not have.

My only hope for tonight is that I can get my homework complete before passing out tonight.

Same Topic Different Stop

Along the lines of my last post, I had a thought. If you consider depression gives you highs and lows on its own -much like the runaway mine train at Six Flags. Pregnancy adds hormones to this mix and all of the sudden you are on the Giant.

Right now the roller coaster is up. I am feeling a bit better. Dare I say -hungry. And my mood has lifted, which is always a plus. I have homework tonight and I need to walk. Other than that I plan to sleep and relax and sleep some more.

Rainy October Day

Last night was as bad as yesterday as far as my morning sickness. This morning is slightly better, but I still dread any movement for fear of having to run to the bathroom.

You don't know what pregnancy is like until you are in the throws of it. I always hoped that I would not have the morning sickness and that I would be happy all of the time.

Please note - I am not saying that I am unhappy with life, this baby, or anything extreme. All I am adding is that there are a lot of emotions during pregnancy. Unfortunately these emotions do not replace any emotional issues or tendencies that existed before conception. I still suffer from depression. However, now it is mixed with many other emotions.

The last few days have been mixed with morning sickness and depression. This is not the best combination to make a girl feel sexy and beautiful. Luckily my Sweetie works hard to make sure that I know that he thinks I am beautiful and sexy even when pregnant and hurling.

I know this is just a slump, a low, and it will pass. I just need to focus on all that I have as well as all who love me.

Sick of Sick

I am in my third day of feeling very sick. Before, my problem was the nausea. Now it is nausea as well as feeling like I will be violently ill at any moment. I am taking b6 to calm my stomach - hopefully it will help soon. People keep telling me, those that know anyway, that my sickness is a sign that baby will stick. I hope so. The doctor's appointment seems so far away. I simply want to hear the heartbeat or something, anything that shows me my Raspberry is healthy (that is the size of baby now). Last night I came home claiming that I am allergic to raspberries because of the way I am feeling. There is nothing worse than feeling like crap in a class where interaction is mandatory.

7 Weeks

I am halfway through this first trimester. Which sounds good. However, when you take into account the 7 weeks is if from LMP, 2 of those weeks were before conception. Add on the two weeks waiting to see if I was and you end up with three weeks of going through this stage. For me to hear 7 more weeks of this sounds horrible. OK not horrible, but not happy. I actually got sick yesterday. And while throwing up when you have the flu or a hangover can bring relief, that is not what I felt. I am not doing too much better today.

My Sweetie is having fun giving me a hard time about having twins. The fact that I started showing last week does not help :-) You would not know it to look at me. In fact I have lost weight in my face and such. However, my lower belly is poking out more than normal. This is not fat, this is baby - or at least body preparing for baby. It feels completely different and is very strange. Hopefully I will know for sure that it is only one next week at this time.

My Sweetie spent several minutes talking to my belly on Saturday asking him/her to stop making me sick :-) This is on top of the new routine of kissing me and then kissing belly. He has been so wonderful. I actually was able to pour my own OJ this morning - he has been doing everything for me. Who knew he would get so into this pregnancy and so soon. Don't get me wrong - he was in this from before the cells joined. He is actually the one who made the final decision of NOW is the time. And when something is meant to be, nothing can stop it.

Tonight is my late night - starting to hate Mondays. It is just such a long day. And, of course, I have homework that must be done before class. It is ok - I am hoping to take an on-line course next semester. That way if I get put on bed rest, I can still attend classes.

We have only bought a couple of toys, waiting on the doctor's visit before anything else. I know the danger zone that we are in and must be practical about the situation.

This is what the websites say my baby looks like now

Welcome Amelia

I received a call last night from my pregnant friend - the one who rubbed off on me :-)

She was due on Halloween. However, apparently someone wanted the candy. On Oct 17th at 11:22pm Amelia came into the world. This friend is Polish so I cannot even pronounce the middle name. She arrived at 6lbs 4oz and 20 inches. Mother and baby went home yesterday and are doing wonderfully, other than Mother sounding so exhausted.

I am waiting to tell a lot of people about the baby until after the first doctor's visit. However, there was no way I could keep it from her last night. She was so wonderful and got so excited for me and my Sweetie. I cannot wait to meet this little one.

The Chinese Calendar was correct with her, if it is with me - then I am carrying a boy.

Hormones are fun

Now I will have to deny it if you ask me, as any good pregnant woman will, but I believe that the hormones have set in. I cry at anything lately. This weekend my Sweetie and I went shopping and planning for the baby. We did not buy anything other than a couple of toys, but we did make notes on the cribs and strollers that we like. I was pretty good through this phase - focused on making my notes. However, when we made it to the mall and went into Hallmark, things changed. We were in a Christmas isle that showcased several stocking holders. This is when it hits me that we need to buy another stocking holder, not for this Christmas mind you. But that thought sent me teary eyed. This type of situation happened again last night as I was driving home and turned on Magic 95 - easy listening sounds good right now - and the love song show was on. Yep, teary eyed while driving is not good.
This has gone on for a couple of weeks now, much sooner than I thought, but it is here. It should be a very interesting Christmas.

In other news the nausea is still hanging on, the girls are too big for my bras, and the two weeks until our first OB visit is sooo far away. From what I am reading, I am a normal pregnant lady - with hormones, fears, concerns, and lack of concentration. I can't wait until I tell work so they can understand my brain lately.

My Sweetie has been so wonderful through all of this. He makes me food, rubs my feet, escorts me to the store, and since the day we found out started talking to the baby. He is going to be so wonderful as a father. If he is half as good as being a father as he is at being a husband, the child will be so very lucky.

Enough ramblings, I must get back to work. Wait, what do I do? Where am I? Who are you?

This is what my baby looks like according to the websites

Fall has taken over

I awake to a dark morning. This is a sign of the upcoming time change. The weather is perfect, although I am cold right now. The outside temp right now is only 73 :-) I love this. The sky is overcast with a threat of thunder storms. My Sweetie and I love thunder storms. Of course he will be away from the house tonight - game night with some new friends. So I will simply get into some comfy sweats and work on my Business Law Midterm.

On another note - and one I want to make sure that I post because soon enough I am sure this will not be the case. I feel so thin today. I feel great. My jeans are loose and I feel confident. This is good since what I have read (Dr's appointment is on Nov 1st) I should only gain like 2 pounds during my first trimester. I am eating whenever I am hungry - which is rare with my nausea. But even that is good today. And I know - way too much TMI - but my boobs don't hurt today. So today is a good day. I am still trying to hold out and not tell work until after the doctor's appointment. I want to make sure everything is ok. My Sweetie and I completed our first pregnancy walk last night, it was very good - not too strenuous.

It has not sunk it - so much going on right now - I think the doctor's visit will help.

And then there were three!

So I have written many times about my confidence rising and my transformation beginning. I had no idea how much this is true. My Sweetie and I went to the Doctor's on Oct 5th. The results? We are anticipating the arrival of our first child. I am due around June 12th. This is amazing. All grandparents know so I can post with confidence. While I know that we are not out of the woods as far as danger goes, I would rather have everyone know and able to support us in the event that the worst occurred.

So far I am doing good. I have nausea and exhaustion. However, I am able to eat very healthy foods in moderation. Sweets are not looking appealing, which is very strange. I had symptoms right away but figured it was my brain teasing me.

My Sweetie has been so wonderful. He is taking the best care of me and baby. He is even reading up on what the baby is experiencing right now, according to the books he is 2mm. He is letting me do very little at home and checks in on me to see how I am doing. I can see in his eyes that he is completely in love with me and this family. I am so happy to have this man's baby. I am so happy to have a family.

And to answer everyone's questions:

When are you due? June 12

Was this planned? Yes, we decided to start trying thinking that it would take awhile. However, we got pregnant the first time without protection. BE AWARE ANY TEENAGE GIRLS READING THIS.

Are you still going to school? Yes, graduation is still scheduled for May. I only have one class next semester so, unless my doctor says otherwise, I will walk with a big 8 month pregnant belly.

What about the CPA? The CPA is on hold for now. However, I am completely fine with this. Things happen at certain times for a reason. My company never reimbursed me for the cost, so this is not an issue.

Do you want to stay home? Yes, I want to stay home the first year. We are going to see what it will take to make it happen. I am very determined about this.

OK I have to get some more water - always thirsty - and have to pee - always have to pee :-)

Interesting

Ever thought you would explode?

Already October??

How can this be?

This weekend was wonderful. Saturday was rainy and cool. To me and my Sweetie, this is a perfect day. We just spent time together enjoying each other's company while window shopping and day dreaming about the future. We did get some cleaning and laundry accomplished which made the weekend feel productive. I hate to jinx anything, but our relationship is so wonderful right now. We are spending such quality time together while we talk and enjoy ourselves. I feel safe with this man like no one else. It is an incredible feeling, to have a relationship of 12 years to begin anew.

Tonight is school - I am pretty prepared for class -nothing that the two hours on campus before class begins can't complete. This week I have to write about 5 pages or so for business law. Hopefully this will not be too stressful.

Monday nights are the hardest - between out of synch sleep schedules, first day of the week, and a late class, it is very tiring. Only 2 months left of class, only two months until my case is due - ok that might have stirred up some stress :-)

New Day

Today I woke up thinking - today is the beginning of many great things to come. Nothing in particular caused this feeling. I am just having another great "new beginnings" day. I am feeling confident today, I am feeling in charge of my destiny. All in all it is a good day. When considering all the stress in my life, my depression has stayed away - at least more than in the past under the same circumstances. This marks the 14th day of my change - my transformation - and it is amazing. I bought a journal this week that sums it up - "Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly". This is me - I am becoming a butterfly.

P.S.

Also wanted to add that this weekend I even bought a sun dress that I never would have - but that my Sweetie liked a lot. While my old self would have felt insecure in a sleeveless sundress - wanting to wait until all the weight is gone - my new self wore it with pride to my Sweetie's work. The dress clings in the right areas and is very comfortable. I was so comfortable in this outfit that I walked around his office barefoot.

Change is on the horizon.

Let me introduce you to Me!

Today I am Me. I mean, I am always me. However, today I feel that I am who I really am – without masks or smoke and whistles. Not that today is the turning point – this past week I have felt more alive and more comfortable in my own skin. Not only do I think it is my confidence, but also all aspects of my life coming together.

Today I am comfortable. I am wearing jeans, black loafers, and a pink t-shirt with the Target logo that represents Breast Cancer Awareness and Research. Last night I dyed my hair – always go very dark this time of year – and I love it. I am going back to the super short haircut – not sure when, but it is coming. Today I am wearing my glasses due to eyes not wanting my contacts. When I look in the mirror, I smile thinking that I am looking at me. Today I have my computer with me – for school tonight. My bag is another symbol of me. I have two pins on my bag (both my sweetie and I are very into pins). One is a pink ribbon and the other is a pin that says “Walk On” for Team in Training.

As you can tell, I am very into the whole cancer research for a cure and charitable organizations scene. I see myself working closer with Team in Training and the Breast Cancer societies when I am out of school. The Avon Breast Cancer Walk is interesting me – 60 miles in 3 days for a great cause gets my blood pumping.

This is me. It is hard to look deep inside yourself and determine what really exists. We tend to blame actions and personality flaws on others, as a reaction rather than a trait. I know that I get stressed easily, I know that I am very strong, I know that I am very smart, and I know that my feelings are mine. No one else can take them from me. My passion defines me, my strength enables me, and my outlook on life gives me hope for tomorrow.

Strength

Saturday Dark Diva invited me to join a dating type-site that includes many questions and tests and determines compatibility. She wanted us to join in order to see how compatible we are as friends, just for fun. Well turns out so far, I have not answered all questions; we are about 73% compatible as friends. This is interesting. I filled out the profile and there is a section where you put three adjectives to describe yourself: I chose cute, intelligent, and strong.

Recently, over the last week, my husband has told me on several occasions that I am very strong. This got me thinking. Am I strong? I guess so. Moreover, I am proud of this trait. I might stress out at times, but I can deal with a lot of stress and handle many situations where others would crumble. I can focus on a goal and make sure that the needed items are complete, and more importantly push through even when they are not.

I think I am a very emotional person. I mean that I feel deeply. My emotions are strong and passionate. I understand that with love you will find pain at times. I also understand that without the pain the love is not appreciated or even re-ignited. Not to make light of any situation, but things happen for a reason, sometimes to simply force our eyes to open and to begin anew.

Weekend Update

This weekend was wonderful. Spent Friday night with friends and all day Saturday with my Sweetie. I weighed in at WW and I have lost 10 pounds. Whoo hoo. I am so happy. Sunday was filled with errands with my Sweetie and mother. After shopping, (grocery and for niece’s b-day) my Sweetie and I went to his work. This was my first time to see his office. I worked on accounting homework while he completed actual work. It was so much fun. The weekend ended with me coloring my hair while my Sweetie put new sheets on our bed – soooo comfy. Overall, a great weekend that I did not want to end.

It is the thought that counts!

Today my Sweetie wanted to have lunch with me, very spontaneous. Although we could not meet because he had an early afternoon deadline on a project. He wanted to chance it, just to see me. However, I said that I didn't want to be the cause. So we had lunch together over IM.

While writing this I got a call from Security saying there is a package that needs my signature. I go downstairs to find a beautiful ceramic basket filled with flowers. They are so beautiful.

With a simple note:

I love you more than anything
You are my world
Forever

This is huge - I have never received flowers for no reason, ie always a birthday or anniversary, and my Sweetie has a bad habit of forgetting to sign his name. This time he remembered. I love this man.

A Step Up

So once again this perhaps should be in my other blog, but it has meaning on the rest of my life as well. At my work if you park in the back you have to go down almost 2 flights of stairs to get into work. And as I know you can figure out - when parking here you have to climb these stairs to get back to your car. I have parked there almost the entire time working here. There is another parking area that is higher than the one I park in with an extra flight of stairs - building is on a hill. I told myself when I get into better shape I will park there. Well, today I did it. The recent weight loss and increase in my confidence gave me the power. I was the only car up there when I parked. It is so beautiful with trees and a trail. Now I know this means I must climb these stairs to get back to my car - and we will see the kind of shape I am in as I leave the parking lot. But the point is that I did it. I am trying to remind myself daily that I can do anything. I am an independent and strong woman and when I put my mind to something, I can do it. I have this track record - school and marathons prove this. I plan to use this determination to help in all areas of my life. I refuse to wait any longer. No more waiting until I lose weight or finish school. Life is now and I must embrace this or I will lose everything.

Wonderful Invention

There is an attachment for the ipod that allows you to listen to your ipod through your radio, itrip. You set your itrip to an unused station. We found out that if your car is close to someone using itrip, and you know the station that they use - you can hear their music. Very interesting.

This morning my Sweetie and I were on our way to work in different cars. He always listens to music and I normally listen to silence so if he is close I will turn on the radio to see if he is listening to anything worthwhile.

Today's first selection was not my kind of ipod listening. However, the second was. Recently my Sweetie and I have chosen a new song for us and this was playing. Now keep in mind that the cars have to be fairly close in order to share. He knew I was listening and I knew he wanted me to listen - so throughout the song I was holding back to let him catch up and he was catching up so I could keep the frequency. It was much like making love - give and take.

What a wonderful way to start the day!

Confidence

I am working on my confidence - going to start exercising again as well as incorporating yoga into my routine. I am also making sure that I work on my self-esteem. Actually, strangely enough it has been good lately; feeling sexy, beautiful, and strong. The past days have given me a new feeling of hope in my ability to control my destiny. I like control. Although my desk and house does not show it, I like order. I like to know the outcome of things and what it will take to get me there.

Because of this, I am postponing my first two sections of the CPA until the beginning of the year. This semester is harder than expected and I think I will benefit from some self-evaluation. I will still be studying every weekend, but only 8 hours compared to 16. This was a hard decision. However, I think it is for the best. I have a big project in Accounting Ethics that has potential for publication. That would be nice. Moreover, what is my hurry - passing should be my focus not becoming a hermit to reach the goal.

I will make sure to get my studies complete as planned - and yes a daily account of what needs to be accomplished already exists - on excel. Nevertheless, I need to make sure that I take as much effort for myself. I need to make sure that I put myself first from here on out. I need to make sure that I know what I want and how to reach these goals. Independence and a clear head - that is my goal.

At this point in my life, there are many decisions to make. I have to have confidence in my ability to make them correctly. I have to trust in my instincts. They have yet to be wrong. Unfortunately, I seem to have an unbelievable sense of ESP at times. I appreciate it and hate it. Can’t we all live in ignorant bliss? Is there even such a thing? There just seems to be so many issues right now.

Cynicism is an interesting thing. You lose as many people as I have, and have hurt as many times as I have – and you grow cynical. You begin to see the crazy hysteria with everyday life.

Life is Strange

So I will post this in my other blog - or at least intend to, but it is such good news that I wanted to share. Something finally clicked. I am losing weight. Have no idea how much due to missing the last two weeks at weight watchers and my scale is broken. However, I can see the difference. My Sweetie says he can see it too. Won't go into the details, but the evidence is there. All of the sudden I am following core and it is not a chore. And yesterday I got into a size smaller jeans. Today I am wearing a size smaller skirt. For the first time in over 2 years I feel like I can lose this weight, that I can get healthy. Things are different this time.

My Motto

Cause I've relied on my illusion to keep me warm at night

Silver Lining

I am a silver-lining kind of person. I know if you know me you might doubt this statement at times due to my stress-out moments. Let me rephrase - I prepare for the worst while hoping for the best and try to see the good or "meant to be" in everything. I am a strong believer in fate. I believe things happen and we are where we are for a reason. Even when things are painful or uncertain - they are for a purpose. For example, fate sent me to SKIDS to experience that awful place. If not for there, I would not be here. I love my job and my company. Most importantly, I love my boss. I realized why I like him so much - he reminds me of my best friend's husband. Do not get me wrong, just because I identify him as her husband, does not mean we are not friends. I think of him as a close friend that I trust deeply. Well, back to the point....

Sometimes awful things happen to open our eyes - to give appreciation. When an event like this happens it is like a veil lifts to reveal the truth. This truth, though sometimes hard to swallow, makes one reevaluate the current path. It pierces the tent of illusions that beneath we live. If we are lucky, this unveiling will reveal a beautiful starry sky that we would have never known existed otherwise.

Past Three Days

The last three days were emotional with

Anger
Sadness
Confusion
Depression
Heartache
Passion
Tears
Distractions
Reevaluations
Closure
Bubble Bath
Winding Roads
Foot Massage
Intimate Discussions

It's Amazing

It is amazing how one's world can change in a heartbeat. People die and marraiges end at one moment in time. From that point on nothing will ever be the same. When you are in that moment your heart beats fast and you feel like you are going to puke. Your mind races to the strangest things, insurance and bank accounts. Suddenly your plans for the next ten years or even year change suddenly. Numbness sets in and doing anything or seeing anyone seems impossible. You doubt your ability to continue or function. The thought of waking up alone hurts. The thought of solitude is scary. Holidays are coming and you can't comphrehend the presence of others. However you can't help but wonder, in a cynical way, if things are turning out for the best.

Feeling Better

I must say that I am feeling better today. It has taken too long. Between sinus infection and food poisoning - it wasn't fair. But today I feel great. Ok a little tired - but other than that I am good. I worked late last night, but did not mind. I had a good day yesterday. I finally had the day where I feel that I belong here. My boss is great and stood up for me. That is helping to ease the pain and anxiety that SKIDS left behind. I also met the CAO of our parent company. I was not even nervous. And today I met with the Controller and was comfortable enough to talk about my job and my duties without sounding like an idiot. My boss even gave me credit for some of my ideas in this meeting. All in all a good day - and it isn't even 2.

The person I replaced returned to the mothership. At first I did not know how I felt about it. However, I am ok. She is working in a different department with different duties. I know that I can do this job better - and I will just have to prove it to everyone else. I am starting to wonder if I want to stay here after graduation or if I actually want to pursue the audit industry. We shall see - I have some time to think about it.

Update on me

Well I am doing a bit better. I was able to eat a normal dinner last night. However, I don't feel great today. My back is killing me and it hurts worse as I breath deeply. This is not fair. The good thing is that I am busy at work today - so hopefully the day will pass quickly.

I contemplated switching to the slower testing option. However, after much contemplation, I decided against it. Mostly because I am feeling withdrawn from family and friends as it is. I don't want to stretch that out any longer than needed.

So I just have to buckle down and take my medicine - referring to studying. Six months is not a long time. That is all I have until the tests are complete. Lord knows I don't want to have to study a second time.

Thank you all for understanding during this time. I promise to make it up to everyone once everything settles. This is another reason why I like my blog. I can let everyone know what is going on in my head with one post.

TMI

Read at your own risk.

Yesterday morning I woke up with a cautious stomach. Not really feeling sick - but could tell I needed to stick to soup. I thought I was doing better at 2:30 and opted for some chocolate cake for my boss' 40th b-day. By 3:30 I was feeling worse and even threw up at work. I wrote to my professor and let her know I could not make it to class. I headed home and sure enough threw up on the way home - thank heavens for plastic sandwich bags. This continued through the evening with violent episodes. Thanks goodness my Sweetie takes such good care of me. I was aching all over when I needed to go to bed so I took my good cough medicine - with codeine - to sleep deeper. The only problem is that I am groggy until 12 hours from the time I took the medicine. This combined with a bad headache and feeling less than perfect led to me sleeping an hour late. I woke up still feeling bad - but mostly groggy. Sure enough threw up again - this time was bad because nothing was left in my belly. I gathered some crackers and a mountain dew and headed to work. So far so good - however I am still exhausted and stomach hurts.

Now that I made everyone's day - I think it is food poisoning. And I hate to say it - I think it came from the shower. The one good thing is that I have lost weight. Can't say this is how I would like to lose the weight - but hey trying to find the silver lining. I have only been at work for an hour so I can't leave yet - prob will go home at noon - if I can make it. I would take my sinus infection over this any day of the week.

The Weekend

Well, this weekend was there. Friday night after I finished my bottle of wine - ok small bottle that holds one glass - I went out with my mom to get Dark Diva something special. I selected a purple suede journal to help her with her thoughts.

Saturday was not good - I was very low and wanted to stay in bed and cry. Luckily my Sweetie was there to help me and get me out of the house. He was the best all weekend. He always tries to make it all better. We went to the Apple store - what else will help end depression :-) The evening ended with best friend, moto diva, Dark Diva, and myself at Kerby Lane for dinner. We needed a place to sit and talk that was not too loud and where they would not shove us out the door. This place always cracks me up. My Sweetie worked as a bus boy when I met him- yep a job and a car. We were there from 7-11 just talking. Dark Diva is doing ok. She has taken the control route and taking care of things to keep her mind busy. It was a good visit.

Sunday was fun. My pregnant friend had a shower. She got a lot of cute items and more socks than she will know what to do with. She is due on Halloween. This is interesting because that was my due date - of course my birthday is the 12th - 2 weeks late. The other interesting thing is that she lives in a house almost identical to my parents house when I was born. Who knows maybe she will have a Missy. I test for the first section of the CPA the Friday before Halloween. So when she started saying how long she has until she has a baby, I started stressing because that is how long I have until I test :-)

After the shower and weekly grocery store visit - my Sweetie took very good care of me and making sure to keep my mood elevated.

All in all it wasn't a bad weekend.

My Boy

I have several cats (the exact number right now is to be determined). However, only one is my boy. This boy is the best kitty ever. He snuggles and takes care of me. I call him my stuffed animal who came to life. I know that after he goes to the rainbow bridge (many many many years from now) he will be the one that I long to replace. I walked in from work this evening to find him sleeping on the couch that you can see from the doorway. He stretched and moved him head under a throw pillow. All my emotions from the day came to a head as I walked towards this beautiful orange creature. I walked directly to him, kneeled by the couch and proceeded to cry into my kitty. Not all cats will let you do this, or even care if you cry. He knew I was upset and let me hold him while I sobbed. He didn't even mind his fur wet with tears. He is 5 years old and has been a wonderful creature every day. He is my furry child. He understands me the best.

Hard Day

I am having a very hard day, and it is only morning. I mentioned before that September is always hard on me. I expected this one to be worse and I am correct. Heard from best friend last night. We (best friend, moto diva, and I) and getting together with Dark Diva this weekend. I have been trying to think of something to do for Dark Diva that would be special from those who know. This has brought back so many feelings. I am sitting here at work tearing up. I miss my father so badly today that my stomach, heart, and throat ache. I don't want to be here right now. Don't want to be around anyone. What I would really like is to take a very long walk - wherever it leads me while listening to emotional music and letting the built up tears flow. I think I will try to write some poetry today, always has helped in the past.

I think the part that really gets to me is how much my father has missed. In the last seven years I have gotten married, bought a house, finished school, continued on for my MBA, qualified for the CPA, walked two half marathons for charity, and got a great job.

I will go this weekend to visit Dark Diva. I will try to hold back some of my emotions. I will resist the urge to run from this event. I don't think I will make weight watchers tomorrow. Instead I will try to go for the walk that I need. I need to work through this. Not "get over" but get into a better place. Yes, even after 7 years it hurts. But I think all of the circumstances this year makes the pain worse.

I tend to keep my emotions inside - don't want to bother others. I need to remember that those around me love me and want to help.

I need to go shopping.

Music Time

Silent All These Years
~Tori Amos - Little Earthquakes

Excuse me but can I be you for a while
My dog won't bite if you sit real still
I got the anti-Christ in the kitchen yellin' at me again
Yeah I can hear that
Been saved again by the garbage truck
I got something to say you know
But nothing comes
Yes I know what you think of me
You never shut-up
Yeah I can hear that

But what if I'm a mermaid
in these jeans of his
with her name still on it
Hey but I don't care
cause sometimes
I said sometimes
I hear my voice
And it's been here
Silent All These Years

So you found a girl
Who thinks really deep thougts
What's so amazing about really deep thoughts
Boy you best praya that I bleed real soon
How's that thought for you
My scream got lost in a paper cup
You think there's a heaven
Where some screams have gone
I got 25 bucks and a cracker
Do you think it's enough
To get us there

Cause what if I'm a mermaid
In these jeans of his
With our name still on it
Hey but I don't care
Cause sometimes
I said sometimes
I hear my voice
And it's been here
Silent All These...

Years go by
Will I still be waiting
For somebody else to understand
Years go by
If I'm stripped of my beauty
And the orange clouds
Raining in head
Years go by
Will I choke on my tears
Till finally there is nothing left
One more casualty
You know we're too easy Easy Easy

Well I love the way we communicate
Your eyes focus on my funny lip shape
Let's hear what you think of me now
But baby don't look up
The sky is falling
Your mother shows up in a nasty dress
It's your turn now to stand where I stand
Everybody lookin' at you here
Take hold of my hand
Yeah I can hear them

But what if I'm a mermaid
in these jeans of your
with her name still on it
Hey but I don't care
cause sometimes
I said sometimes
I hear my voice

And it's been here
Silent All These Years
I've been here
Silent All These Years

Good Morning

In spite of feeling awful last night and still groggy from my cough medicine this morning - the morning is beautiful. At around 60 degrees it is perfect for me. This made me very happy. However, it also made me want to stay outside and not come into the building. My office is in the middle of beautiful trees with a nice neighborhood as a backyard. So the quiet cool morning is enhanced. I have to get rid of this infection so I feel up to walking again.

From now through February my schedule is busy. This does not mean that I do not have time to hang out or that I am going to become a hermit. This week is my 6th week of the BEC CPA review and the 1st week of the REG review. From here on out I will have to study for two sections at a time. This is doable if I stick to my schedule. I really enjoyed my study time on Monday. I hope that this continues. I think I figured what will work for me. And in the end I am the one who has to take the tests.

This is definitely going to be a fun and exciting semester.

Dark Diva's Loss

This weekend was not all happy. However, I wanted to write about this in a different post. My friend, the Dark Diva, lost her mother on Saturday night. While driving she had a heart attack and did not survive. September is a hard month. Dark Diva lost her father in September 1999. I lost my father in September 1997. Hearing the news from my best friend really hit me. I never met her mother - but I have been crying for her pain, for her loss, and all losses. Dark Diva asked for some quiet time - which I can understand. I should see her sometime this week and will be able to see for myself how she is holding up. My Mother really likes all of my Diva friends so I called her to let her know. We are going to send a gift to show our support. However, not the normal "sorry for your loss" tokens. She will receive enough of those. I e-mailed Dark Diva and offered babysitting or anything else that might help. One thing that bonded Moto Diva, Dark Diva and myself during our camping trip was the loss of our fathers. She knows we understand loss and hopefully she will let us help.

September is always hard for me. I can always tell a difference in my emotions and my state of mind. This one is going to be even harder - good thing I have CPA to distract me.

I cannot say it enough - don't wait until tomorrow to tell someone how you feel.

Love my ipod

OK so it took a couple of weeks but I finally imported a lot of music over the weekend into itunes and, of course, into my ipod. I must say I finally really understand how it is different than a discman - I was in a bubble bath listening to shuffle that consisted of Sarah Brightman, Sarah McLachlan, and Blue Man Group. I am at work now listening as I work. I don't listen to music because I worry about bothering others around me - work in a cube. I can get used to this :-)

Weekend Update

My weekend was good. Friday we went and saw Hero - it is a beautiful movie.

Saturday was a lazy day ending with a date night with my Sweetie. We went to dinner and came home to capture a kitten and its mother - we have fed the mother for a year now and want to make sure that she doesn't have any more babies. That was definitely exciting and not really expected. They are living in our guest bathroom until we can get them to the vet.

Sunday was the normal grocery store and such as well as visiting good friends.

Unfortunately when I woke up on Monday I was not feeling well - my luck with a holiday. My Sweetie planned to play his game all day to let me study. In spite of feeling sick I am proud to report 3 hours of quality study time.

I am afraid that I will be back at the doctor's office again this week. If I am not feeling better soon I am sure he is going to run some tests. What if he finds out that I have evolved and am better than human?

Still Infected

On Monday I started to feel bad again, much like with my sinus infection at the end of July. I thought it might be a cold because the Dark Diva told me she had one from Friday (when we babysat) through Monday. So I have been taking my vitamin C and other holistic items to reduce the length of a cold. Well yesterday it was worse, still able to go to work - but feeling like crap. So I went to the doctor and found out that I am still infected. In spite of feeling better for two weeks, the infection remains. He gave me some more antibiotics, this time 14 days worth, and allergy medicine. He said I should feel better before Saturday - which is good because I have a date with my Sweetie. I am in a great mood today. It is close, which I love because I am so busy, and Friday. YEAH!! And a three day weekend.

I Love Fall

I do. It is my favorite time of year. Where the temperatures are ok for shorts but you might want a light sweater, where the wind is cool with a hint of cold, the leaves falling, pumpkin candles, chili (mom makes it for me every year), the shorter days (love driving home in the dark), my b-day, my best friend's b-day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and mornings that call for me to go outside and walk. I think that is why I am in the best mood today. While I have not gone outside since I got to work - the weather bug shows the top temp at 80 and currently 79. This is fall, baby. I work by a large window and I see a partially grey sky and I smile. I want to get home and walk - might not be able to tonight - but I will be out there tomorrow enjoying this time of year. I will not let everything that is going on stop me from enjoying this season.

Psyched

I am in a great mood today. Don't know why, but I won't complain. I am really excited about the CPA exam and am even looking forward to my marathon study sessions on the weekend. I am happy with my classes so far and know the semester is going to be stressful - but I am focusing on passing two CPA exams and finishing two classes. It is going to be good. This is a marathon just like I have successfully completed before, the only difference is that this one involves my brain. After all, the test itself is only 2.5 hours. I have had college tests last longer than that. I also discovered that my first portion will not have any writing on it, this means that I should get my score quickly - in theory at least. The TSBPA has the expected release of grades as January for my tests in October and November and April for my tests in January and February. We shall see. All I know is that in 6 months I will have this exam complete. I can do this!

First night over

Class went well last night. It was Accounting Ethics from 7-10. Of course the instructor held us the whole time. She is a tough cookie, but one of my all time favorites - in spite of everything. This class format is like the course I took last fall - Cost Management. The class is case based. This means that we read real life cases and analyze. I was wondering how she would approach an Ethics course. Luckily she decided on the case approach. We read AICPA code on ethical issues as well as selected cases - yes Enron and Martha Stewart are a couple of recent cases on our agenda - and then go to class to discuss. Last night was the first class. However, she got us going and the night held a few heated debates. I loved it. Then we kind of acted out the case we read. We had assigned roles and played out the court case, nothing scripted. I was able to be an attorney and able to question the management that created the fraud. I was awesome. I had absolutely no problem with this role or the fact that I was in front of the class. mmmmmm perhaps law school :-) Ok maybe not law school - will leave that for others. However, I feel more confident in my abilities to become an auditor.

I think I am going to really like this semester. Not only does everything I am doing tie together - school wise as well as CPA, but I am genuinely interested in the classes and exams. I stayed after last night and spoke with the professor about my upcoming CPA exam. She was so excited. I wanted to make sure she knew because the last time she saw me I was working for EVIL and not myself. She could not believe everything that is in the section I am taking. I also announced to the entire class when I sit for the BEC section. Now I have to pass.

Semester Plan

I just wanted to give everyone a brief plan for the semester.

August
2 - CPA review for BEC portion begins
30 - Accounting Ethics Begins - Monday nights through 11/29

September
2 - Business Law Begins - Online through 12/2
7 - CPA review for REG portion begins

October
14 - Midterm for Business Law
18 - Midterm in Ethics
29 - CPA BEC TEST - 8:30-12

November
1 - CPA review for FAR portion begins
12 - MY B-DAY
24 - Hope to test for REG section
29 - CPA review for AUD portion begins
29 - Final Ethics

December
2 - Final Business Law

Then I have a wonderful break from school until Jan 18th. It really is not that bad of a schedule - just wanted to let everyone know. For the most part I will be studying 10 hours on Saturdays and 7 on Sundays. I can do this - I will do this.

Another Monday

My vacation is over and I am back at work. While I did not complete the long list of self inflected "honey-dos", I did rest and pampered myself a little. It was good. Tonight starts a new semester with class from 7-10. That makes for a long Monday. This class, Accounting Ethics, is just like Cost Management that I took last fall. Same instructor, same day, same format, same classroom. Although I learned a lot in this class, and in hindsight it was one of my favorites, I did not enjoy the process. I actually swore off Monday classes. But here I am again. One thing I am bad about is procrastination. However, I am even worse with this with assignments for the first class. I mean, come on - give us a small break. So during lunch today I will read my case and hope to get something that I can turn in tonight.

The CPA exam is really hitting me. Due to a rude awakening on the depth of the subject matter for economics I had to reevaluate my studying. Last night I set up which day will result in which studying. I am going to try and get my school items taken care of during the week allowing for the weekends for CPA review. Saturdays will be designated for the upcoming test and Sundays the next test, I have overlapping review sessions for all sections. This should work well. I know the worst part will be through November. I can handle that.

But I might have to take a nap when I get to campus :-)

We Survived

Last night my Sweetie and I babysat for my friend the Dark Diva. She has two girls, One 2.5 years and one 10 months. We were awesome. Not only did the girls survive the night with even going to bed fairly close to their normal time, the parents came home to dishes clean and all toys picked up. We really enjoyed ourselves. The best thing is that I did not have to say "OK you do this while I do that", we were a team all the way. While watching two girls for a few hours on one night does not compare to parenthood. Any and all doubts I ever had in my Sweetie's ability to be a good father are completely gone. We watch my niece on a regular basis and have since she was a little younger than the older one last night, it is different with two. It is also different with nonrelated children. But they were very good. The evening was nice and relaxing. Did not get to bed until 3:30 so I missed my weight watcher meeting this morning. But that is ok. It was worth it for my friend to have a date night. Another amazing part of the night was that we are the first outside of the grandparents to watch these wonderful girls. I am honored. Whenever the husband would start to give an instruction, which I did not mind, the Dark Diva would say "Oh Missy knows". Guess I have this mommy like energy. Now I have to complete the CPA and my MBA before I can start day dreaming too much.

9 Weeks

After receiving the acceptance letter from the TSBPA you must submit an eligibility application. Once this is approved you then register your payment coupon with paying for the exam. After this is verified the next step is to schedule a testing location and time. These steps must be followed for each section of the CPA.

It is official. I completed the last step and am testing on October 29th from 8:30-12. I got the time that I wanted. Now I have 9 weeks to prepare. While this is not long, I am prepared to do what I need to in order to pass. During this time I have two classes to keep up with as well as the beginning of my second review. Things are going to be very busy between now and Thanksgiving. But worth it.

I discovered last night that the best approach, for me, is not reading a chapter and doing the problems. I am behind on my review because of this approach. If I have to read, it is too passive for me and I will fall asleep. However, if I start with working the problems and read the sections that I missed - I am more likely to learn from my actions. This is how I will work the sections. I also have the Wiley CPA review books to aid in my studying. My goal is to pass - I can reach my goal.

Diva Core

I am on vacation this week. It has been wonderful. Sleeping in and having lunch with some of my favorite people. One thing that this time off has helped me to appreciate is the people in my life.

This past weekend I went camping with two of my friends. I have never had tons of good friends. And while the ones I have had have always meant the world to me, I have had my share of friends that were untrue, unfaithful, or mentally abusive. It was from the ending of one of these awful relationships that I realized that one of my newer friends were different from the others. I was drawn to her and somehow knew she could change my life. That she did. She told me repeatedly how important I am and how I can do anything. She is a true friend. She introduced me to three other women, two that I went camping with. All together there are five of us - the divas. Each of us is very different. One thing we have in common is that we have a center. The friend who brought me to these beautiful and strong women, brought us all together. She is our common ground. While she would never claim this victory - it is hers for the taking.

The camping trip was wonderful. It gave me a chance to interact with these women on my own, and I think I did well. This trip removed all doubt regarding them only hanging with me because of our core.

An interesting thing with me lately is the rise in my self esteem. I have not started my exercising or watching my food intact - but I am feeling more confident. I think this has to do with my friends, my work, and how close I am to graduating with my MBA. But the biggest thing, in my opinion, is that in 10 weeks I am testing for my first portion of the CPA. This is not a set path - this is something I am doing on my own, outside of work or school. And I will succeed. It helps that my family and friends are so supportive.

Hilltopper Pride

I am so proud. My school made the Best Colleges 2005 list.

GOOOOOO HILLTOPPERS!!!!!

TGIF!!!

It is Friday. Not only that - as soon as I leave today, my vacation begins. Although I am not going anywhere - this is some much needed time off. I plan to get caught up on my CPA studies as well as clean my house. Not that I am anal about the house. It is purely to reduce stress. When I am in school I do not keep up with the house due to so much on my plate - this leads to clutter - clutter leads to stress. Stress leads to unhappiness for all around me. And as predicted my professors for the fall send the assignments for the first class - each has around 4 chapters to read. My week will consist of CPA review, exercise, cleaning house, and pampering myself. It will be wonderful.

I am headed out for an overnight camping trip tomorrow. It should be a lot of fun. It is with two friends introduced to me by my best friend. The interesting thing is that my best friend is not going. So it will be the first time alone with these two wonderful and strong women. Let's hope I do not bore them to tears. I have to think of something yummy to bring for dinner - something that is suitable for camping.

World on Fire

These are lyrics from a Sarah Mclachlan song from her "Afterglow" album. It is stuck in my head today and I think very appropriate to share.

World on Fire

The worlds on fire its more then I can handle
Ill tap into the water try and bring my share
Try to bring more, more then I can handle
Bring it to the table
Bring what I am able

Hearts are worn
In these dark ages
You're not alone,
In these stories' pages
The light has fallen
Amongst the living and the dying
And I'll try to hold it in
Yeah I'll try to hold it in

The worlds on fire its more then I can handle
Ill tap into the water try and bring my share
Try to bring more, more then I can handle
Bring it to the table
Bring what I am able

I watch the heavens
But I find no calling
Something I can do to change what's coming
Stay close to me
While the sky is falling
I don't wanna be left alone,
Don't want to be alone...

The worlds on fire its more then I can handle
Ill tap into the water try and bring my share
Try to bring more, more then I can handle
Bring it to the table
Bring what I am able

Hearts break ... hearts mend ... love still hurts
visions clash ... planes crash
Still there's talk of saving souls
Still the cold is closing in on us

We part the veil on our killer sun
Stray from the straight line
On this short run ...
The more we take the less we become
The fortune of one man means less for some

The worlds on fire its more then I can handle
Ill tap into the water try and bring my share
Try to bring more, more then I can handle
Bring it to the table
Bring what I am able

It is done

Last night we did it, we bought me a 15" powerbook. My sweetie met me at the mall and we made the purchase. I am still a little weary regarding the whole event - only because I feel guilty. However, we did get me a nice computer as well as an ipod and color printer. Due to rebates the 20G ipod came to 70 and the printer to 0. It is nice. While I do not have internet access yet or microsoft office, I was able to set up some preferences last night. In order to calibrate the battery I had to charge it fully last night and now I have to use it with only the battery until it goes to sleep. Because of this I have it next to me now - sitting and taunting me. Good thing my boss is out of town and it is a very slow week for me. Have to admit - I can't wait to do the CPA review using this machine.

Can all be forgiven?

So grades are finally posted. While I knew on Friday that the I earned a B in the hardest course of the MBA, I still awaited my Marketing grade. I pretty much knew my grade as of Sunday night because the instructor posted our assignment grades - but not the final. When you are in graduate school grades are not always clear cut. So I waited. This morning it is official. In spite of the worst group EVER - I made an A in the class. This is so awesome. This means I am back on track as far as school goes. It also proves that my bad semester while working for the evil bunch was in fact due to the emotional stress they caused and not my abilities.

So I am feeling good about myself.

However, I do not feel very good today physically. I am still not completely over my sinus infection - or whatever it was. So I will take it easy this week. I can't be sick again - too much planned for next week.

Relax a Mouse

This weekend was wonderful. Friday I celebrated the end of the semester with some family and friends watching The Village at AlamoDraftHouse. I love that place. The movie was very good. In fact it was one of those that you like more after you leave the theater and keep talking about it.

Saturday was nice and relaxing. I got up in time for my Weight Watcher meeting. They were nice and let me reset my starting weight. Since being sick I have not followed anything. Then I picked up my Sweetie and started our day with lunch. Our first stop was school for Fall Semester books. My Sweetie is getting so much better. He did not even give a verbal response when my books, for two classes, totaled almost $300. We continued on to my work to drop off a couple of plants - since I have a window I should use it :-) My Sweetie got to see my cubicle and was impressed. Of course my work is right by the mall where a certain apple store lives. We looked and looked at the iBook and powerbooks. My Sweetie is convinced that I need a laptop for my CPA review and my last two semesters. Luckily they did not have the one I wanted. That is good since it forced more thinking time on the subject. However, I have to admit, it would be nice to be able to take my review with me where ever I go. hmmmm we shall see.

After stopping at Target and buying some LEGOs we headed home. I was not feeling great so I set myself up on the couch, took my good cough medicine, and proceeded to play with LEGOS while watching the Olympics. Now that is what I call a Saturday.

I have to admit I did not do any CPA review. Mostly I wanted a brain break.

Officially Official

Now it is official. I received my approval for the eligibility application for the BEC section of the CPA exam. This approval is good until Nov 16, 2004. The next step is to contact Prometric to pick a date, and of course pay the testing fee. This is crazy, I am actually doing it.

Last night was the last official night of the semester. YEAH!!! It is over. I think I will go today during lunch to get my books for next semester. Class starts on the 30th. I am so looking forward to my break. I plan to stay on course with the CPA review and clean my house. I know it sounds like a blast, doesn't it? You know you have too much going on when cleaning the house is something you have to plan for and get excited about.

During my break I am also working on a good plan for getting healthy for graduation. I have 39 weeks. I can accomplish a lot during this time. The important thing is to set realistic goals and have a plan that is flexible with school and CPA.

Tulsa Anyone?

First of all let me start by saying - No official offer has been made, we are not considering it, we do not wish to move right now.

So I go home yesterday to find an e-mail from the PWC partner that I met with in July. He recently moved to the Tulsa office and he e-mailed me asking if I would consider moving to Tulsa to work in his office. WOW. This is huge. Now I am not exactly packing my bags, but I am so honored. I told him to tell me his thoughts and that I would need incentive to move. I am not about to tell a partner "Hell No". I shall play the game. I posted awhile back about being an adult. Well I am officially an adult. I admit it. Not only that, I am an adult with a career. I am not simply a college student who works full time. I had a partner of a big 4 ask me to change states for an entry level position (because I have never audited before). This is huge. I am sure one of the reasons is that I impressed him, obviously, but also the Austin office may not be hiring right now.

My Sweetie has this theory
"you know, I was thinking about why Martin wants you in -his- office (aside from the usual "no space in Austin") - your interview impressed him because you made him discuss something he was passionate about. He is dedicated to that subject and by initiating a discussion about it, he knows you are of the same mind set."

I think he might be right. I will keep everyone updated on the dance.

Is this a waltz or a tango?

Karma Coma

Actually this is the title of a kewl song. However, my karma is high today. On Friday I went to Albertson's and purchased my favorite sushi and chopsticks. When I got home I discovered that the chop sticks did not scan. This normally would be a "their loss" thought (esp after spending this whole semester on the company). However, this was at a self checkout - there was a whole issue with "item not scanned" and the head guy cleared the issue from the main station - I thought it scanned the chopsticks as well. So today I went back to Albertson's - more sushi - and purchased a pair of chopsticks. I then went to the main self check out guy and explained that I ended up not paying for the pair I took on Friday and that I scanned these to make sure that they received payment. When I handed the new chopsticks to him I think that is when it sunk in what I was doing. He was very surprised and thanked me for my honesty.

3.19 added to my karma :-)

Walking on Air

So today is wonderful, other than allergies. My AWFUL group is over. My semester is over - other than a class tomorrow with nothing required from me. I am happy. Class went over by an hour last night. But it was worth it. I don't have to see the worst of the group again, they graduate on Saturday.

Now I have 19 days without school work - or at least I hope. I am sure I will have homework due on the first day of class - as normal. But it is my second to last semester so it is all good. I am so happy that I am not graduating until May. I am really going to miss my school. I already can't wait to buy my books for the next semester - my favorite part of the semester - not the actual price, but getting the new supplies. I was like this as a child too. Loved getting school supplies and then I would bring all my books home and look through them anticipating the coming year. I am like this with every semester. Honestly, it is going to be hard in January when I purchase that last book. While I will love not having to stay up late or spend my whole weekends writing papers, I will miss being a student. I am sure you all think I am crazy. There is an office depot by my work so I think I will go all out for my supplies for this next semester. Oh and I should stock up for my CPA review as well.....