tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27018110337926605332024-03-13T14:28:52.231-07:00Lajcis in LoveUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-48252499782126419302010-09-04T15:03:00.001-07:002010-09-04T15:10:33.250-07:00Almost there...I am now 38 weeks and 2 days preggers and I have to go the doctor every week now. At my last appointment, there had been no progress made. Baby's head is down, which it has been for the past several weeks but she was still laying up under my ribs and I hadn't dilated at all. My doctor said we're going to want some sort of action here shortly! I'm still feeling really good. I'm glad to have control of the A/C, even if I'm freezing out the family. It definitely makes it more comfortable to be pregnant in California in September!<br /><br />So what's left to do? I mean, besides finishing building our house? Here's the list:<br />1) Pack my bag - my goal for tonight<br />2) Charge all of the camera batteries and pack them together<br />3) Charge the iPod and find extra batteries for our player<br />4) Set up the Pack 'n Play in our temporary bedroom<br />5) Take the car seat to the CHP to have it checked <br />6) Take King to the vet for all of his shots<br />7) Call the doctor to get Mark a flu shot and pertussis (whooping cough) booster<br /><br />We just can't wait to meet our little girl!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-19546182539931655532010-08-15T19:58:00.000-07:002010-08-15T20:59:52.519-07:002010 (so far) in pictures<div align="center">This year has been crazy busy and filled with excitement. I so wish I had done a better job of documenting everything that has been going on but at least I have pictures... </div><div align="center">
<br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiqRaHQ8hI/AAAAAAAAARA/dxhAABQ2OH8/s1600/100_5802.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505837760504721938" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiqRaHQ8hI/AAAAAAAAARA/dxhAABQ2OH8/s320/100_5802.JPG" /></a>
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505837359638859954" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGip6ExZULI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/9o09D20Fssc/s320/100_5772.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">Our News Years Day Party at Andy's place.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiq6kEI_9I/AAAAAAAAARI/h9PJIMdfOKY/s1600/100_5817.JPG"></p></a><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505838467550609362" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiq6kEI_9I/AAAAAAAAARI/h9PJIMdfOKY/s320/100_5817.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">Celebrating Christmas with my dad and the fam.</P<> </p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGirw6Kj4WI/AAAAAAAAARY/mKp1n5dr1Hg/s1600/100_5826.JPG"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiyvxjdTBI/AAAAAAAAATg/GozXKu5ZXBg/s1600/100_5826.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505847078286085138" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiyvxjdTBI/AAAAAAAAATg/GozXKu5ZXBg/s320/100_5826.JPG" /></a>
<br /><p align="center">The cousins </p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505840121080070802" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGisaz8SQpI/AAAAAAAAARg/zfndcFW4FGc/s320/100_5871.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">We're pregnant!
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGis8mRMNxI/AAAAAAAAARo/Wh4zV4FUeok/s1600/100_5965.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505840701525210898" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGis8mRMNxI/AAAAAAAAARo/Wh4zV4FUeok/s320/100_5965.JPG" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGitKAuAkGI/AAAAAAAAARw/-HaQdawjpEE/s1600/100_5966.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505840931963703394" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGitKAuAkGI/AAAAAAAAARw/-HaQdawjpEE/s320/100_5966.JPG" /></a>
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505841168051743506" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGitXwNyKxI/AAAAAAAAAR4/K-TECFnFLIw/s320/100_5987.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">Chicago for Katey's 30th birthday and a bonus visit with Mike, Kristi, and Colin.
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<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGitwKA8uEI/AAAAAAAAASA/2km_M8lyNfw/s1600/100_5995.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505841587294091330" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGitwKA8uEI/AAAAAAAAASA/2km_M8lyNfw/s320/100_5995.JPG" /></a>
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505841874163155922" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiuA2r3Q9I/AAAAAAAAASI/g4yYy2ZDkvI/s320/100_6000.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">Spending time with our little family of 3 1/2.
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<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505842499153428818" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiulO9KAVI/AAAAAAAAASQ/t66C1qfE1f0/s320/100_6012.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">Dave's daughter, Riley's, 1st birthday.
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<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiu-5l14pI/AAAAAAAAASY/m5V5t8WXXz4/s1600/100_6022.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505842940095095442" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiu-5l14pI/AAAAAAAAASY/m5V5t8WXXz4/s320/100_6022.JPG" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGivc8BeslI/AAAAAAAAASg/cCyj92_DktQ/s1600/100_6028.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505843456143962706" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGivc8BeslI/AAAAAAAAASg/cCyj92_DktQ/s320/100_6028.JPG" /></a>
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505843740005723826" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGivtdfZbrI/AAAAAAAAASo/z3jJU2b-Lio/s320/100_6032.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center">Dodgers Opening Day and the beginnings of a Baby Bump.
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<br /><p align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505844249151852594" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiwLGNS0DI/AAAAAAAAASw/9dZrkvD8_ik/s320/100_6049.JPG" /> </p><p align="center">Baby Lajci!
<br /></p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiwkHts-eI/AAAAAAAAAS4/T0YVvg9awCs/s1600/100_6063.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505844679052949986" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiwkHts-eI/AAAAAAAAAS4/T0YVvg9awCs/s320/100_6063.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiw0X5-YiI/AAAAAAAAATA/1JF9H5hBca8/s1600/100_6064.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505844958277296674" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiw0X5-YiI/AAAAAAAAATA/1JF9H5hBca8/s320/100_6064.JPG" /></a>
<br /><p align="center">Adam and Lindsay's Wedding Shower </p><p align="center"></p>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGixdioYtkI/AAAAAAAAATI/dkyhn5yoCyc/s1600/100_6104.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505845665530951234" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGixdioYtkI/AAAAAAAAATI/dkyhn5yoCyc/s320/100_6104.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a></p>
<br /><p align="center">My first baby shower at school
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<br /><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGix4ytstwI/AAAAAAAAATQ/5oGe_Z7KaFk/s1600/100_6127.JPG"></p></a><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505846133704668930" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGix4ytstwI/AAAAAAAAATQ/5oGe_Z7KaFk/s320/100_6127.JPG" />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiyQGIK47I/AAAAAAAAATY/B0Z_wH0Uqds/s1600/100_6148.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505846534052963250" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiyQGIK47I/AAAAAAAAATY/B0Z_wH0Uqds/s320/100_6148.JPG" />
<br /><p align="center"></a></p><p align="center">Craig's ordination<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGizezZg0uI/AAAAAAAAATo/a1nUevP75Kw/s1600/CSC_3239.JPG"></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505847886235095778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGizezZg0uI/AAAAAAAAATo/a1nUevP75Kw/s320/CSC_3239.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a>Our Baby Shower in Michigan<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGizxFhimUI/AAAAAAAAATw/hthsAZGsdps/s1600/100_6166.JPG"></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505848200338250050" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGizxFhimUI/AAAAAAAAATw/hthsAZGsdps/s320/100_6166.JPG" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiz81MqYUI/AAAAAAAAAT4/zIoWQndo2PA/s1600/100_6180.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505848402114142530" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGiz81MqYUI/AAAAAAAAAT4/zIoWQndo2PA/s320/100_6180.JPG" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0HjaYQOI/AAAAAAAAAUA/QpnrtiPpMFo/s1600/100_6181.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505848586318397666" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0HjaYQOI/AAAAAAAAAUA/QpnrtiPpMFo/s320/100_6181.JPG" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0QVfiuzI/AAAAAAAAAUI/VZA5z-BwON8/s1600/100_6183.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505848737200782130" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0QVfiuzI/AAAAAAAAAUI/VZA5z-BwON8/s320/100_6183.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a>Graduation!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0c2JqCYI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/MTwMnyeEIy0/s1600/100_6190.JPG"></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505848952125786498" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0c2JqCYI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/MTwMnyeEIy0/s320/100_6190.JPG" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0onBg4QI/AAAAAAAAAUY/LNxCbnXmJkQ/s1600/100_6192.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505849154223530242" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi0onBg4QI/AAAAAAAAAUY/LNxCbnXmJkQ/s320/100_6192.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a>My Baby Shower at School with my Students<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi1IdbZhyI/AAAAAAAAAUg/-KnPlvtxGOw/s1600/100_6288.JPG"></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505849701403559714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi1IdbZhyI/AAAAAAAAAUg/-KnPlvtxGOw/s320/100_6288.JPG" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi1bVk47uI/AAAAAAAAAUo/DwdHSYFqUcI/s1600/100_6423.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505850025713397474" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi1bVk47uI/AAAAAAAAAUo/DwdHSYFqUcI/s320/100_6423.JPG" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi1mc1yNsI/AAAAAAAAAUw/j_VoOwde1bQ/s1600/100_6428.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505850216641869506" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi1mc1yNsI/AAAAAAAAAUw/j_VoOwde1bQ/s320/100_6428.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a>Adam and Lindsay's Wedding Weekend<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi16Yf4CsI/AAAAAAAAAU4/9QPtZk7xf4U/s1600/100_6458.JPG"></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505850559073618626" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi16Yf4CsI/AAAAAAAAAU4/9QPtZk7xf4U/s320/100_6458.JPG" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi2s6eAsqI/AAAAAAAAAVA/75iAojdOjUw/s1600/DSC00009.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505851427186061986" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi2s6eAsqI/AAAAAAAAAVA/75iAojdOjUw/s320/DSC00009.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a>My 30th Birthday!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi3ONHg5OI/AAAAAAAAAVI/YNpj_gRPdws/s1600/DSC00145.JPG"></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505851999127659746" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/TGi3ONHg5OI/AAAAAAAAAVI/YNpj_gRPdws/s320/DSC00145.JPG" /> <p align="center"></a>Construction! </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-79145532128570795722010-06-03T19:37:00.000-07:002010-06-03T19:39:40.490-07:00Hello Stranger, Remember Me?I have been meaning to sit down and post some things a lot in the past, oh, 6 months. I mean, my goodness, I have a lot to share! Thing is, time just slips away from me and I never actually do it. At this moment, I have to bake some cupcakes for our end-of-the-year potluck tomorrow but wanted to drop a line to those of you who may still check in from time to time in case I've decided to post in the year 2010. Things are great, I'm feeling wonderful. I will be posting more in the days, weeks, and months to come. Stay tuned...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-82327531836155209272009-12-26T20:35:00.001-08:002009-12-26T20:35:53.997-08:00Today's Horoscope...<em>You may have found yourself having some issues with food lately, dear Cancer. It could be that your sense of self-worth is not at its highest and that you are trying to make up for this by sabotaging your relationship to your body. Remember: food is healthy nourishment that you need to survive. Your body deserves respect, and you always need to give it the proper fuel that it needs to be healthy.</em><br /><br />Weird.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-48767857247698183422009-12-05T18:38:00.001-08:002009-12-05T18:41:46.067-08:001/2 way...To my first weight loss goal, that is. I hit 15 lbs. this morning and feel great! With Thanksgiving and a very stressful November, it would have been easy to fall of the wagon but I stuck to it and am very proud of myself. When I get to 30 lbs., I'm going to get highlights. I'm ready for them now but they're so costly, I figured it'd give me something to work toward. I haven't had them done since before our wedding. My next mini-goal is to lose 4 lbs. before we go to Michigan on January 1st. I think it's totally attainable, even as holiday parties loom. Wish me luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-63806810955670813542009-12-04T17:34:00.000-08:002009-12-04T17:41:10.838-08:00Nothing Like the Christmas Spirit!While driving around Downey running errands, King and I were enjoying the Christmas music on the radio, muddling through the words to Feliz Navidad, when I stopped at a four-way stop sign. I yielded to the car on my left and, when it was my turn to go, I started going straight. Just after I started into the intersection, the car to my right decided to go straight. I had to slam on my brakes, sending Kingy onto the floor in the backseat (poor guy). I had gone first and, obviously, had the right of way. But then someone honked at me. At ME! I didn't do anything wrong. So I looked over to the honker, on my left, and saw two guys gesturing and, presumably, yelling not-so-nice things at me. I pointed to the car that had gone in front of me, what the heck did the guys want me to do? And then, without pause, I lifted a certain finger that I rarely lift. Then moved forward and continued my Feliz Navidading. A minute later, I realized what had just transpired and found myself laughing at the entire situation. Merry Christmas dude in the red Toyota who decided to honk and yell at me, Merry Christmas.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-64109650804797117632009-11-08T20:09:00.000-08:002009-11-08T20:19:41.580-08:00A Low-Carb LifestyleJust about a week after Mark's birthday weekend in Vegas, we decided to give Atkins a try. Up to this point in my life, I had been very anti-Atkins because I felt that the people I know who have done it eat bacon all day and lose weight. This is not a healthy diet. But, we bought a book and, after reading through it, I began to understand the ideas behind the diet..scratch that, it's a lifestyle. Basically, the principles are simple and all sugary, processed food should be eliminated and replaced by healthy alternatives.<br /><br />One thing that I discovered during this first two week period is just how much I had become addicted, literally, to sugar. The first couple days were the most difficult, especially when I had to have something sweet after my meals, but I soon got used to it. Last week, I also gave up caffeine. Instead of feeling tired, as I assumed I would, I had a distinctively increased energy level. When I got home from work everyday, I no longer desired my afternoon naps that I had become so accustomed to. It was incredible!<br /><br />We went to Lindsay and Adam's last night and were planning to skip the wine/beer that normally goes along with a night with them; however, we decided to have a couple of drinks, nothing crazy, and see what happens. We both had lost when we weighed in this morning! I am definitely learning the value of balance.<br /><br />We're starting Week 3 this week and should be moving into the "Ongoing Weight Loss" phase of Atkins but I think we're going to do one more week of "Induction."<br /><br />Total weight loss so far: 10.5 lbs!!! It's amazing how results fuel the motivational fire.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-83562148978232675192009-10-23T22:29:00.001-07:002009-10-23T23:09:48.990-07:00Update (in photos)<div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKT__2NR_I/AAAAAAAAAQw/xzXHoVNUFfM/s1600-h/100_5235.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396038031223113714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKT__2NR_I/AAAAAAAAAQw/xzXHoVNUFfM/s320/100_5235.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hanging with Adam & Linz!</div><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKTxIFh3cI/AAAAAAAAAQo/GSyqzhtfCjQ/s1600-h/100_5236.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396037775736823234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKTxIFh3cI/AAAAAAAAAQo/GSyqzhtfCjQ/s320/100_5236.JPG" border="0" /></a> Looks who's in the shopping cart now!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKToX6SZNI/AAAAAAAAAQg/O73VhSmZGYA/s1600-h/100_5247.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396037625365816530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKToX6SZNI/AAAAAAAAAQg/O73VhSmZGYA/s320/100_5247.JPG" border="0" /></a>Our adorable niece and me.<br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKTTJ7yK0I/AAAAAAAAAQQ/Mlv9Vp6AVwo/s1600-h/100_5302.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396037260836744002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKTTJ7yK0I/AAAAAAAAAQQ/Mlv9Vp6AVwo/s320/100_5302.JPG" border="0" /></a> Such a cute pic!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKTF5ZRarI/AAAAAAAAAQI/SEpppcvFpLk/s1600-h/100_5321.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396037033058724530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKTF5ZRarI/AAAAAAAAAQI/SEpppcvFpLk/s320/100_5321.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKS0KQyLsI/AAAAAAAAAQA/PaaJrlsR97c/s1600-h/100_5322.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396036728348880578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKS0KQyLsI/AAAAAAAAAQA/PaaJrlsR97c/s320/100_5322.JPG" border="0" /></a> At an NLDS game<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKSrJpYUTI/AAAAAAAAAP4/y2SqQVIS3Os/s1600-h/100_5326.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396036573564784946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKSrJpYUTI/AAAAAAAAAP4/y2SqQVIS3Os/s320/100_5326.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKShBnjcnI/AAAAAAAAAPw/KZjINsrdBYY/s1600-h/100_5334.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396036399610950258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKShBnjcnI/AAAAAAAAAPw/KZjINsrdBYY/s320/100_5334.JPG" border="0" /></a> In Vegas for Mark's birthday<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKSXZxgevI/AAAAAAAAAPo/f1lvPdsQ0uU/s1600-h/100_5338.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396036234296457970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKSXZxgevI/AAAAAAAAAPo/f1lvPdsQ0uU/s320/100_5338.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lucky guy!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKSCeIMrYI/AAAAAAAAAPg/HHe624mBbjM/s1600-h/100_5344.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396035874688118146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKSCeIMrYI/AAAAAAAAAPg/HHe624mBbjM/s320/100_5344.JPG" border="0" /></a> With a random relic at the House of Blues Foundation Room.</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRso4ymjI/AAAAAAAAAPY/zC0q_ooLkTU/s1600-h/100_5359.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396035499619162674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRso4ymjI/AAAAAAAAAPY/zC0q_ooLkTU/s320/100_5359.JPG" border="0" /></a> Having a good 'ole time!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRk7gaYQI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/dSu4P7_oo4Q/s1600-h/100_5377.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396035367178232066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRk7gaYQI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/dSu4P7_oo4Q/s320/100_5377.JPG" border="0" /></a> Mark & the Strip<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRSvveGXI/AAAAAAAAAPI/b8w0Q6TcPvU/s1600-h/100_5390.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396035054782519666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRSvveGXI/AAAAAAAAAPI/b8w0Q6TcPvU/s320/100_5390.JPG" border="0" /></a> We wandered through the closed restaurant and found a collection of empty wine buckets, a perfect place for Mark to relieve himself!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRH7tx_rI/AAAAAAAAAPA/3F6vTWdYrpk/s1600-h/100_5350.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396034869018099378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SuKRH7tx_rI/AAAAAAAAAPA/3F6vTWdYrpk/s320/100_5350.JPG" border="0" /></a> Self-Portrait! <div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-26137278167650130272009-10-14T20:39:00.001-07:002009-10-14T20:41:12.028-07:00Welcome to the world Joshua Leo!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/StaZuL5wVPI/AAAAAAAAAOw/budEK-7fyiE/s1600-h/679643366_zifVY-M.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392666622570812658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/StaZuL5wVPI/AAAAAAAAAOw/budEK-7fyiE/s320/679643366_zifVY-M.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Karen and Scott's first baby was born on Monday! After 41 hours of labor and an eventual c-section, Mom and Baby are doing well. Congratulations Diegels! We are so thrilled for you! </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-61654437736269199952009-09-30T20:05:00.000-07:002009-09-30T20:24:06.710-07:00"Teachers are Born, Not Made."I just read an article that argued no matter how wonderful the university program, people simply can't be taught how to teach unless they were born with the "teaching gene." I tend to agree. Mark tells people all the time that I could <em>not</em> get paid and I would still do what I do. I love it that much. And it's true. I really do love what I do.<br /><br />I've had some difficulties of late with one of the teachers in my department. It seems that, because I am more eager to try new things, ready to take on new challenges, and in a position that seems to have authority (as department chair) I can do nothing right. It probably doesn't help that I'm thirty years younger than her either! Truly, no matter what I do, it's wrong. And she has no problem telling me how wrong I am and how thirty-five years of teaching has made her an expert on whatever teeny-tiny little decision I have to make.<br /><br />So, since my last blog posting, school has started and boy is the ball just a-rolling along! Which, incidentally, is why I haven't posted anything since September 4th. I have a new classroom, which is great! It's also a big change and has thrown everyone off, including me. My co-teacher and I have five new paraeducators which is almost like having five additional students at times. While completely necessary and totally invaluable, teaching five people how you want/need them to work is a huge undertaking. I also have a couple of new students who are really great kids but also very involved behaviorally. To add to the craziness, I have a ton of extra paperwork and evaluations to do this year. And to top it all off, I had this teacher upset with me this afternoon.<br /><br />But, despite my ranting and jumbled thoughts, it really has been a great year so far! I'm looking forward to things settling down a bit so that I can actually enjoy what it is I was genetically pre-determined to do...teach.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-89890143696109896522009-09-04T23:09:00.000-07:002009-09-04T23:18:07.232-07:00Week in ReviewAfter being a "new" WW member again this week, I'm supposed to weigh in tomorrow morning. I had a really rough time getting into a routine this week for several reasons. A run down of my week...<br /><br />Saturday night was our annual Albanian party in which our family celebrates with other families from the same region of Montenegro their ability to defeat the Turks and remain Catholic. We had two lambs roasting on a spit all day long plus all kinds of other food and wine.<br /><br />Sunday we went to a friend of Mark's place for a BBQ. I managed to do okay here but did have a couple of beers.<br /><br />Monday was our big night on the town! I had way too much to eat and drink.<br /><br />Tuesday I was super hungover so didn't eat too much but what I did it were my typical hangover remedies - french fries, ice cream, and an egg sandwich. I know, it sounds gross and weird but it really does seem to help me!<br /><br />Wednesday I managed to actually count my points and log my food into my online journal.<br /><br />Thursday I went wedding dress shopping with Lindsay and she took us out for appetizers and then for dinner as well. I tried to be good but it was so difficult, especially since we were celebrating.<br /><br />Friday, today, I've done really well.<br /><br />Part of me really, really wants to skip my meeting in the morning since I know I didn't have a successful week and it's just embarrassing for me at this point. But, Mark is being really supportive and insists that I go. My leader is super positive so I know she'll celebrate the fact that I came back more than make me feel bad for not following the plan this week.<br /><br />Next week will be better. I go back to work which will help a ton since I'll be back into a routine.<br /><br /><em>(Sigh) </em>Wish me luck. I definitely wish it were easier.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-66895595593407201662009-09-01T22:41:00.001-07:002009-09-01T22:43:30.079-07:00A Step in the Right DirectionAfter reading my last post, it probably doesn't seem like I'm doing anything to help myself shed some pounds. However, yesterday was a special occasion. In fact, I re-joined WW on Saturday morning. I've had a decent week but, of course, last night made it difficult. I have three full days until my next weigh-in though, wish me luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-63182925531378723542009-09-01T21:46:00.000-07:002009-09-01T22:34:48.085-07:00Reaping the RewardsSince July, Mark and his management team have been working so hard in order to make BJ's in Downey a successful restaurant. Their hard work and dedication definitely paid off when they beat the opening week sales record! As a result, the big wigs from corporate took the entire team and their significant others out to dinner last night at Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills. Mark and I have been so excited about this dinner and night on the town and it the night definitely did not disappoint.<br /><br /><br />We all met at the restaurant between 4:30 and 5:00 where we met the limo that would take us to Beverly Hills. I was a bit disappointed that the limo was not stocked with champagne, as I had anticipated; however, I ultimately had <em>plenty</em> to drink. We met the top five guys from the corporate office for dinner and two of their wives joined us as well. Mark and I ended up sitting directly across the table from the CEO and one of the VP's. I sat directly next to the wife of the 2nd in command. She and her husband are planning their daughter's wedding so we had plenty to talk about. I kept leaning over to Mark and apologizing for not socializing more with him but he was thankful that I was getting along with the mukity-muk's wife. We also chatted a lot with the CEO who just seems like a really, really nice guy.<br /><br />The conversation was great but the food was to die for! I had a bone-in filet, which I had never seen on a menu prior to last night. It was so thick and juicy and delicious! All side orders are served family style so everyone was able to order what they wanted and we all had plenty to sample. My favorite was the creamed corn. Mmm... The au-gratin potatoes were delicious as well. Then came the dessert! Mastro's has a signature butter cake on the menu so, of course, that's what we got. I love sweets but I'm not too much of a cake person (unless it's from Meijer) but this cake was indescribably delicious. Words can't even express how yummy it was. And it was served with fresh berries. Just divine.<br /><br />Great conversation and one of the most delicious meals of my life were complemented wonderfully with lots and lots of drinks. Lots of drinks. I started with a smoking lemon drop martini and then really, really wanted a glass of champagne. After asking Mark who asked his GM, I ordered a $25 glass! Then the wine came and an after-dinner S'mores martini with a graham cracker rim. In all, the tab on dinner was around $4500! Talk about a perk of a job well done.<br /><br />After leaving Mastro's, we swung by Sky Bar in Hollywood. Now, I have wanted to go to Sky Bar since Becky and I first went to L.A. for the night back in 2002. I'm not sure how I had heard of it or why I wanted in so bad but I was so thrilled to have made in in the door that I asked just about every person in the place what the name of the bar was! I kept thinking they were all just messing with me. I don't know, blame it on the a-a-a-alcohol! We ended the night at the local karaoke joint that we went to last week. I butchered "Dancing Queen." Or, I'm assuming I butchered it because I couldn't even hear myself singing it. Mark and I ended the evening with our own rendition of "Redemption Song."<br /><br />In all, we has an absolutely fantastic time and can't wait to go back to Mastro's and enjoy the food again. I wonder if it would be just as delicious if it wasn't free!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376732623012194370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp391V7laEI/AAAAAAAAANQ/oBt9DREzGws/s320/100_5097.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center"><em>A full-length shot of us before leaving the house. It's kinda dark but you get the idea. I love to watch as we get more and more relaxed as the night goes on...</em><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4BqzR0N2I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/yim4sDWY7_g/s1600-h/100_5104.JPG"><br /></p><p align="center"></a></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4DPRHzN-I/AAAAAAAAAOo/0Za8Lry7Ds4/s1600-h/100_5104.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376738565955991522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4DPRHzN-I/AAAAAAAAAOo/0Za8Lry7Ds4/s320/100_5104.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a> <em>In the bar before dinner.</em></p><p align="center"><em></em><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp3-zk1oDJI/AAAAAAAAANg/omLbNJ0EZz0/s1600-h/100_5114.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376733692165622930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp3-zk1oDJI/AAAAAAAAANg/omLbNJ0EZz0/s320/100_5114.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>Gotta get a pic at the entrance! This was after dinner.</em><br /></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp3_RB7axfI/AAAAAAAAANo/1QNO8x5huoU/s1600-h/100_5128.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376734198190753266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp3_RB7axfI/AAAAAAAAANo/1QNO8x5huoU/s320/100_5128.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center">At Sky Bar. Definitely getting a little faded.</p><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4AHF5JyDI/AAAAAAAAANw/nnGA95RSjO0/s1600-h/100_5141.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376735126967928882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4AHF5JyDI/AAAAAAAAANw/nnGA95RSjO0/s320/100_5141.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4AV4OV0gI/AAAAAAAAAN4/Z-XheodRFOI/s1600-h/100_5146.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376735380996739586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4AV4OV0gI/AAAAAAAAAN4/Z-XheodRFOI/s320/100_5146.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>In the limo. Nice cleavage.</em></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376736069714779362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4A995hHOI/AAAAAAAAAOA/F_WLVZJplMY/s320/100_5149.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"><em>Our self-portait attempts!</em><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4BTXIJ98I/AAAAAAAAAOI/q_Kpbyb-3a8/s1600-h/100_5150.JPG"></a><br /></p><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376736437264316354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4BTXIJ98I/AAAAAAAAAOI/q_Kpbyb-3a8/s320/100_5150.JPG" border="0" /></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4CQvFUfmI/AAAAAAAAAOY/CcV8XWxXErA/s1600-h/100_5172.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376737491666894434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4CQvFUfmI/AAAAAAAAAOY/CcV8XWxXErA/s320/100_5172.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>The Lajci's do Bob Marley!</em></p><p align="center"><em></em><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4CunzoRWI/AAAAAAAAAOg/IH20JBfr2oU/s1600-h/100_5184.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376738005109720418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/Sp4CunzoRWI/AAAAAAAAAOg/IH20JBfr2oU/s320/100_5184.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>One last self-portrait for the night. I think it's pretty obvious that we're having a great time!</em> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-34339433675203463292009-08-26T19:15:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:01:37.815-07:00Like a vacationMark had Monday and Tuesday off this week and, boy, does that make today feel like a Monday! I go back to school (at the university) next week so I'm very thankful to have felt like we were on vacation.<br /><br />We woke up somewhat early on Monday with a list of errands to run. We dropped Mark's car off at the dealership to get his a/c fixed (it hasn't been working for a few weeks) and Mark got a haircut. We then went to Home Depot and ordered a door with a doggie door already installed in it rather than having Mark's dad saw the hole himself, which was the original plan. We also got a new toilet seat as I had broken the last one by standing on it and cleaning the walls. Apparently, I twisted one way and the seat went the other, causing the screw that holds the lid to the seat to break.<br /><br />After lunch, we embarked on our major endeavor of the day: purchasing a new suit for Mark. We went to an outlet mall not far from us to get an idea of prices then headed to Hollywood, a suit outlet mecca. I must say that, even though we are SoCal residents, walking the star-lined streets of Hollywood is still pretty cool. We went to an additional four stores and Mark had decided on a classic black suit until he tried on a super-sharp grey, pin-striped Hugo Boss. It was the suit that fit him the best all day long and he really looked handsome in it. He was a bit afraid that grey, pin-stripes don't go with enough colors of shirts and ties but I reassured him that, according to <a href="http://tlc.discovery.com/fansites/whatnottowear/whatnottowear.html">Stacey and Clinton</a>, it would be considered a neutral and that he could wear any shirt and tie with it. We left the store for a minute to discuss and then he called his friend Andy to gets the man's perspective. He decided to get it and I think it guarantees that heads will turn when he walks into a room (as if they don't already!).<br /><br />Being that we were in Hollywood and it was already close to 5, we decided to get some food and drinks and wait for traffic to lighten up. We went to this really neat German bar where the bartender and the regulars are all from Germany. The food was great - even better than Frankenmuth! After braving the freeway, we took a short nap then met up with Mark's GM, Will, at BJ's then closed down The Powwow Saloon, where they have karaoke <em>every night</em>! We finally crashed close to 3:30.<br /><br />Tuesday morning we forced ourselves out of bed early and went for a quick greasy breakfast since I was feeling a bit queasy from over-indulging the night before and he was moving pretty slowly. We then hit the road to meet up with our friends Dave and Robin and their adorable daughter, Riley, in Del Mar (about an hour and a half south of us, close to San Diego). Robin's brother is the deputy chief of the life guards on his stretch of the beach so we had a prime spot close to the tower. The water was beautiful! So clean. And the waves were totally within my comfort zone, which is really great! After a quick, hangover-curing dip, I got comfortable with Robin, her sister-in-law, and the baby (who was safe under an umbrella) and caught some major rays. Mark, on the other hand, went boogie-boarding for a bit then went out with Robin's lifeguard brother, his 7-year-old son, and Dave for his first surfing lesson. He had a wonderful time and came back to shore exhausted but super excited to try it again sometime very soon. We all then went for a fabulous dinner and margaritas and drove home, where we fell into a deep sleep no later than 10:30! It is almost inconceivable that Mark be asleep by 10:30. I guess the surfing really did take a lot out of him!<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SpYEPsIgPhI/AAAAAAAAANA/uyVsosp1Y48/s1600-h/100_5090.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374487872904642066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SpYEPsIgPhI/AAAAAAAAANA/uyVsosp1Y48/s320/100_5090.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SpYElViw5aI/AAAAAAAAANI/ooMa41GM3dU/s1600-h/100_5089_0001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374488244797892002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SpYElViw5aI/AAAAAAAAANI/ooMa41GM3dU/s320/100_5089_0001.JPG" border="0" /></a> This morning, as Mark was getting ready for work, we were talking about how nice the last two days were and how much like a vacation they felt like. We felt rested and he felt ready to deal with the restaurant for the next few days.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-88224480408576052192009-08-22T21:30:00.001-07:002009-08-22T21:31:40.863-07:00Hilarious?The neighbors are having a party and their music's been loud all night. No biggie, right? It's only 9:30. Besides, we're having a party next weekend so we'll get them back. The funny thing? They just busted out a karaoke machine. I can't help but laugh. I just can't.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-6504375467085490802009-08-22T16:05:00.000-07:002009-08-22T16:12:55.673-07:00Wretched time of yearI know that I really shouldn't be complaining about having multiple weeks off every summer and I know that I'm truly, truly going to appreciate having summers off once we have babies. BUT, this time of year is always SO tough when it comes to weight loss, or even just weight control. I, of course, have put on a few pounds since summer school has let out. I know that some of it will naturally come off when school starts again, it always does. Mark has put on a few pounds this summer and we are now both to a point where we're ready to do something about it. He has been really encouraging me to go back to WW, since history shows that it works for me but I'm feeling really embarrassed to go back into the meetings heavier than ever. I know I'm probably not going to be the only repeat enrollee but I need to get past it and just do it. Chelle recently shared the best BMI and waist measurement that her doctor indicated are ideal for conception. My first goal will be to get my numbers below that level. From there, we shall see. Wish me luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-24678660686981129992009-08-20T14:56:00.000-07:002009-08-20T14:58:08.617-07:00See what I mean!?!?!?You'll notice that I've posted about my week with my mom. You'll probably also notice how crazy the formatting is. Sorry. It's the best I could do. I'm not sure what exactly caused the issue but something obviously did. Hmmm...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-40267150916820802382009-08-19T21:49:00.000-07:002009-08-19T21:50:10.589-07:00Frustration!I just spent over an hour recounting my week with my mom but when I tried to add pictures everything got messed up! Stay tuned. I'll try again tomorrow. I'm done for tonight.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-40738766165855587172009-08-19T20:27:00.001-07:002009-08-20T14:56:01.179-07:00A Wonderful Week<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SozTrod4QsI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ypGM_M9hv18/s1600-h/100_5085.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371901202096734914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SozTrod4QsI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ypGM_M9hv18/s320/100_5085.JPG" border="0" /></a> When Mark started working in the hiring center and putting in twelve and fourteen hour days, we decided that I was going to take a little vacation and spend a week in Michigan. We've yet to spend a night away from each other since we've been married and, while I know it'll happen eventually, I just don't want to yet. So, instead of spending the money on a ticket for me, we decided to spend the money on my mom so we flew her here for a week. We had a really fantastic time and, as always, it was very hard for me to see her go home. After taking her to the airport, I did some running around, got a pint of Ben & Jerry's FroYo, and laid in bed for a couple of hours.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>She arrived last Wednesday around noon and we immediately took her for some delicious, authentic Mexican food. We spent the evening watching home videos, Mamma Mia!, and finishing up the invitations for Erin's baby shower. A nice, relaxing evening together.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Thursday we went to breakfast and then to the <a href="http://www.wbstudiotour.com/">Warner Brothers Studio </a>for a VIP Tour. A teacher at school had given me a couple of free passes a couple of years ago so I was finally able to turn them in. It was a great, two-hour tour. We saw Stars Hollow, Connecticut fro Gilmore Girls and Central Perk from Friends. We were also able to walk on the set of Chuck. The magic of movies really is fascinating to me and something that I've always shared with my mom. We went to Mark's restaurant for dinner where I think my mom found a new addiction in the parmigiana encrusted chicken, which is delicious. After dinner we watched the newest Nurse Jackie on demand and I watched my first episode of Weeds, seems interesting. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>On Friday, I made cinnamon rolls (something I seem to only eat at my mom's) and we went to my new classroom. I'm moving to the room next door so my co-teacher and I have a much larger space for our program to run in now! We spent hours getting furniture moved around and making my new office seem comfy and cozy. Friday night we had popcorn and chocolate for dinner and saw Orphan, which was really creepy. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Saturday was a very relaxed day. We went to BJ's for breakfast to check out their weekend brunch menu then went dress shopping. <em>(A side note: Mark's restaurant beat the BJ's opening week record so the suits are </em><em>taking all of the managers and their spouses/significant others to <a href="http://www.mastrosrestaurants.com/">Mastro's</a> in Beverly </em><em>Hills </em><em>on August 31. We're getting a limo and everything! The CEO will be there. It's </em><em>kind of a big deal.)</em></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SozT0iVKxAI/AAAAAAAAAMo/B4LqVgHWW5c/s1600-h/100_5070.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371901355068408834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/SozT0iVKxAI/AAAAAAAAAMo/B4LqVgHWW5c/s320/100_5070.JPG" border="0" /></a>So Saturday afternoon my mom and I started our quest for the perfect dress. And I proceeded to throw my PMS-induced attitude full force at my mother. I'm sure deep down Mark was thankful that it wasn't him. :) After dress shopping, we went home and each took a little nap. Waking up feeling much better, we went grocery shopping and my mom taught me how she makes mostaccioli. After dinner, the three of us met up with Adam and Lindsay along with her mom, step-dad, and sister, who just happened to be in town this weekend as well. My mom and I ended the evening by dipping our feet in the Pacific.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/So3GSqNXn8I/AAAAAAAAAM4/VEcMqpReCJo/s1600-h/100_5079.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372167954393178050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KKb9njs6SlQ/So3GSqNXn8I/AAAAAAAAAM4/VEcMqpReCJo/s320/100_5079.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Sunday was Mark's mom's birthday. We had Chinese food and birthday cake for lunch and relaxed and watched the Dodgers game. We BBQ'd at Adam and Lindsay's place for dinner and enjoyed a great night of discussing wedding plans and playing Cranium.<br /><br />On Monday, we had a wonderful, albeit hot, day sharing our absolute favorite coasters with my mom at <a href="http://www.sixflags.com/magicMountain/index.aspx">Six Flags Magic Mountain</a>. We went to BJ's for the third time this week. I mean, why not? Mark doesn't get enough of it when he working, right? But it <em>is</em> really good food and we <em>do</em> get it for free.<br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Tuesday, our last full day together, we went back to my classroom to finish up a couple of projects and my mom was able to meet my co-teacher and all of the administration. They were really great and talked me up a lot which, of course, made me feel good but I know had to make my mom feel pretty good too. She told them that it's nice to know that people love me when she's so far away. I then took her by <a href="http://www.csulb.edu/">Cal State Long Beach </a>and showed her where my classes are and we went to pick up the dress that I decided upon. We stayed at home the rest of the evening and relaxed. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Wednesday morning was clouded by the sadness of her departure but it really was a very good week and it was so nice spending time with her. It was great to have her helping me in my classroom and even better to have her helping me pick out a nice dress - both things that I've gotten pretty used to doing by myself. </div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>It's always hard to leave one another but we talk so often that I feel very close to my mom even though we're physically apart from one another. I sure am one lucky girl.</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-6846879891144627272009-08-07T22:46:00.001-07:002009-08-07T22:56:59.962-07:00Mistrial!After spending six entire days (well, really only 3 hours a day) at the courthouse going through the jury selection process, listening to testimony, and deliberating, the jury that I was on was unable to come to a unanimous verdict. It came down to a 11-1 vote, in favor of a conviction and we spend a good five hours explaining, bickering, and not budging the final juror. It was extremely frustrating to me to have been through it all and not finish with a verdict. I do commend the one person though for sticking to their guns and not budging simply because eleven people were, basically, begging them to; however, being one of three jurors who ended yesterday after voting "not guilty," I thought the facts presented and discussed today made it very clear that the defendant was, in fact, guilty.<br /><br />Being that this is a public blog, even though nobody but those who know me read it, I don't feel right disclosing too much information. The case was regarding a DUI conviction. The defendant had just turned 20 when he and a friend lost control of his vehicle and ran it off the side of the freeway. Neither person was in the vehicle when the police arrived but the defendant admitted that he had been driving, attempted all of the field sobriety tests, and agreed to a blood test. He was, unquestionably, drunk and that fact was never in question. The issue was that nobody witnessed him driving and, even though he admitted to driving at the scene and proceeded to get arrested without attempting to explain that his friend was actually the one behind the wheel, the defense's argument was that he was not, in actuality, driving the vehicle.<br /><br />It was a very, very interesting experience and an extremely thought-provoking look at how people relate to one another. It was also a fascinating glimpse into the workings of our justice system.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-90552505468517988292009-08-06T22:48:00.001-07:002009-08-06T23:46:49.091-07:00AppreciationMark's new restaurant had its grand opening this past Monday and they beat a <a href="http://www.bjsbrewhouse.com/">BJ's</a> sales record for an opening day, raking in upwards of $25,000 for the day. It's been an incredibly hectic, exhausting, and stressful couple of months since he started working in the hiring center. Even the guys at the restaurant have begun to get on each others' nerves. All of their bosses from corporate have been there all day breathing down their necks and their team members are all still learning the ins and outs of the restaurant. Mark's shift yesterday exemplifies how his job has been this summer. He went in at 4:00 pm to close the restaurant. When he closed any of the last four BJ's that he has worked for, the latest he has gotten home without having stayed to socialize was just after 3. He came through the door at 4:30 this morning, exhausted and pissed off. Time will definitely ease these pains and I'm estimating the restaurant will be working the way it should be by about February.<br /><br />So, here I am, the wife of a restaurant manager who is opening a new restaurant. The only wife of all the managers involved in the opening. I've shared countless hours with Mark and his management team discussing the new hires and the kinks and glitches over beers. The guys have started to refer to me as an honorary member of the management team. I've begun referring to the restaurant operations as "ours" and talk about the things "we" do. Mark comes home upset and I've been there, of course and unquestionably, to try to calm him down. I've tried my best to always have food ready when he gets home from work and I've been doing all I can to hold my tongue when things just don't need to be said at that exact moment. I've been patient and he's been stressed. Mix the new restaurant opening with his quitting smoking (almost 2 months now!) and it's easy to see why we've had our fair share of squabbles this summer. While the guys were in the hiring center, I brought them lunch at least twice a week and I spent two whole afternoons pounding the pavement to hand out free take-out meals to local businesses, just so nobody (namely my husband) would have to do so after working ten, twelve, even fourteen hours in one day.<br /><br />By no means am I complaining. I am so unbelievably proud of Mark for quitting smoking, especially during this stressful time. I also think that the experience of opening a new restaurant is one that will help him grow exponentially as a manager. Being that the restaurant is just over a mile from our house, he is planning on remaining there for the long-haul. This will be the restaurant where I take our kids to visit dad at work, where we, as a family, celebrate birthdays and baseball games and dance recitals (until BJ's decides to open in Michigan, of course). And, by no means, would I ever expect anything in return from Mark or from the restaurant. My job, as his wife, is to be there for him and to do whatever I can to support him and the restaurant.<br /><br />I came home from jury duty today to find a bouquet of beautiful yellow and white daisies and white lilies with a card attached that read: <em>Thank you for all your support, understanding, encouragement, patience, and lunch delivery! Mark is lucky to have you and so are we. - BJ's Operations Team</em><br /><br />I was at a loss for words at the thoughtfulness that went into that thank you. Mark and I were just discussing how we don't do things because we expect to get something in return or, at least, we shouldn't. If that's the reason why a person does the things he or she does, then they really shouldn't do it in the first place. But, boy does it feel nice to be appreciated.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-52402896033741452922009-08-06T22:46:00.000-07:002009-08-06T22:47:50.934-07:00My Civic DutyI've been sitting on a jury all week and have found the entire experience absolutely fascinating. We have to go back in tomorrow morning for deliberations but we are all hoping to be done tomorrow. After that, I will gladly go into more detail about the case.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-56089174532292347022009-08-02T21:22:00.000-07:002009-08-02T21:37:27.845-07:00Another perfect day!Mark and I had another great Sunday off together today. Today was the last day that the restaurant is closed, grand opening is tomorrow! So, all managers and team members were off today to get their heads in the game.<br /><br />We woke up when we felt like waking up (one of my absolute favorite things about having the day off) and went to Subway for lunch. We then headed back down to the <a href="http://lajcisinlove.blogspot.com/2009/07/another-pleasant-la-sunday.html">beach</a> that we went to a few weeks ago. It was so beautiful then that we thought we'd try it again. Well, several things weren't right this time around. First, seaweed was EVERYWHERE. Now, I know that the ocean is a natural body and seaweed a naturally occurring thing but, really, it's gross. I hate the way it feels wrapped around my ankles and thighs. Second, the waves were HUGE. Finally, the rip tide was super strong. A lifeguard actually swam out to us to tell us to get our booties closer to shore or else we'd be carried out to sea. That's all I really needed to hear. We swam in a bit closer then headed to shore. Mark then took our boogie board out to show me how it's done. He caught a few waves then we laid out for a bit.<br /><br />When we got home, we <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">BBQ'd</span> with Mark's parents and his sister, Tina. There was lots to eat and I drank almost an entire bottle of champagne myself! Needless to say, it was a really great dinner.<br /><br />Finally, to top it all off, Mark and I got our beach cruisers that hadn't been ridden in almost a year and took off to <a href="http://www.blizzberry.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Blizzberry</span></a>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Blizzberry</span> is my new addiction. You serve yourself soft serve frozen yogurt and top with whatever you want and then they charge you by the ounce. It's similar to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Pinkberry</span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Yogurtland</span> or some other derivative of the same. My favorite concoction has been strawberry and raspberry yogurt topped with strawberries, blackberries (my absolute new favorite), raspberries, and sprinkles. Delicious. After we ate our yogurt we rode our bikes around <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Downey</span> for a good hour or so. Maybe even longer than that. It was the best bike ride of my life, I felt 13 again!<br /><br />We are now choosing a movie to watch while we enjoy a bottle of wine. A perfect ending to a perfect day.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-11413870141194236872009-08-02T21:20:00.000-07:002009-08-02T21:22:45.086-07:00Break open the bubbly!Adam proposed to Lindsay this weekend and she said yes!!!<br /><br />We are so thrilled for them. They are, absolutely, hands-down, our best friends here in L.A. and the couple that we spend holidays and special times with. We are so excited to be a part of this amazingly special time for them. Congrats you two!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2701811033792660533.post-29664881663119261922009-07-31T12:26:00.000-07:002009-07-31T12:35:21.740-07:00Karma, Karma, Karma, Karma Chameleon!I really did expect to walk into the courthouse today to meet officers who would handcuff me and take me to jail since I failed to appear for jury duty. I was super anxious this morning and, of course, running late.<br /><br />After parking and practically running to the doors, I found that they hadn't even opened yet. Score one for me. Then, when we were filing in, a woman leaned in and whispered "I thought we were going to get away with not coming at all." What? You mean to tell me that, though I totally forgot to call in, those people in my group who had been were not instructed to appear until this morning?!?! Score two for me. Then, after a two-hour orientation, our guide read a list of names of individuals who, while not done for the day, were able to take an extended lunch and report back at 1:30. Guess whose name was on it? That's right, yours truly!<br /><br />So, I just woke up from a mini-nap and am gearing up for another "grueling" three hours in court. Wish me luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3