Last year I lost a bunch of weight - 26 lbs! Finally, I saw a size 10 again - and wow was that great! Due to some stupid girl problems, I had to take hormones which brought me back up to a size 14 but now the hormones are gone and I'm on my way back down - size 10 is just a few pounds away! I should finally get to the weight I have determined is right for me around June/July - then I quit smoking! Then back on the diet to lose those pesky smoking pounds then finally - my 'asset reduction' surgery sometime around Thanksgiving - which means I will be a total 'dime piece' by the big FOUR-OH!
When I first lost all my weight - I started giving away my wardrobe - jeans, suits, dresses and even shoes (did you know that you can lose weight in your feet?) My co-workers were thankful as they were going through weight loss themselves. However, a consistent comment I got was that I was a "Clothing Snob".
That one shocked me. I am very big on personal integrity (do my deeds match my words?) and I pride myself on being a person who does not look down on others: I can't even watch Dr. Phil or Jerry Springer because I feel that those shows are designed to make fun of people who have not had the same advantages as me. I remember my mom's reaction to a classmate at her 20th year class reunion. The gentleman was in a wheelchair with a halo attached by screws to his forehead. He drooled and smelled like he hadn't had a shower in weeks - yet my mom ran right up and hugged him. That lesson has always stayed with me - and I'm not sure she even knows that.
Anyway - back to me. A clothing snob? How could I be a snob? It is incongruent with my personal motto to that everyone is equal, so why were my co-workers saying this about me? I cornered "The Sus" and made her spill the beans - and guess what - my clothes all had designer labels. I blame Randy.
When we first met, I was working as a waitress. Whenever I needed a pair of shoes, I would go to Payless. After my 5th pair of crappy black pumps he finally said "Why don't you just buy a pair of black pumps at Nordstrom for $75 that will last longer?" So I tried it - and now I'm addicted...to nice shoes, makeup, clothes....
However, what most of my friends know about me is that I'm a fanatic bargain shopper. I love brand names, but I get them at Nordstrom Rack. Most of my shoes come from there as well. I like quality but I'm only willing to pay full retail for a few things - and only in a size 10 and only for classic wardrobe staples. But here's a couple of my secrets:
1. I invest in a new coat every year - but I buy it only at the end of the season. Beautiful dress coats are 1/2 off or more at the end of the season. Pick a classic style and you will have it forever...follow the trends by buying a scarf in the latest color but stay with a classic cut on the coat.
2. For shoes - spend the money. I wear 3" to 4" heels every day. I could probably run the 50 yard dash in most of them. Why? Because they are quality shoes. Good shoes are priceless - trust me on this.
Let me address my final splurges: purse and sunglasses. I carry the same purse everyday. I don't switch out and I don't like cheap purses - and I don't give those away so deal with it. As for sunglasses? Every nice pair I have ever bought I still have. I don't lose them. And if I want to fork out some serious wallet lettuce for designer glasses? I will. If these items make me a clothing snob? Then I'm all in.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Songs About Laura
I was driving into work today and heard a song that triggered a memory for me – do you ever do that? I heard “Cool Change” by Little River Band that reminded me of a CD I once made for a friend.
I went to a wedding in my hometown a couple of years ago and caught up with some of my old friends – and reconnected with some people who I knew but never considered friends. Funny how you choose your friends differently now, hu? Anyway, my friend “TJ” and I decided that we would make a CD for each other that said something about who we are. TJ is a huge music buff such as I (although I’m sure I could kick his butt at my ‘six-pack’ game) so the task was to pick a variety of songs and explain why.
I went through my iPod and all my songs and came up with a list. This task was harder than I thought…and I’m not sure what they say about me, but here’s my list:
1) I’ll Be Around by The Spinners – my favorite song of all time.
2) Beast of Burden by the Rolling Stones – my second favorite song of all time.
3) Bitches Ain’t Shit by Ben Folds – this song cracks me up – what is funnier than a hard core rap song sung like a 50’s cocktail lounge song?
4) Alone Again by Gilbert O’Sullivan – this is the saddest song ever written.
5) Cool Change by the Little River Band – great driving tune…”I was born in the sign of water and it’s there that I feel my best”.
6) Grow Old Along with Me by Mary Chapin Carpenter (written by John Lennon) – my wedding song.
7) Groove is in the Heart by the DeeLites – best dance song EVER
8) I Touch Myself by The Divinyls – my karaoke song
9) Love Will Keep us Together by The Captain & Tenille – my other karaoke song
10) Auld Lange Sine by Dan Fogelberg – Great lyrics…this song is about looking back at high school and the choices we make to become who we are today.
So this is my list of songs – I’m not sure what they say about me. And TJ? I’m still waiting for that CD of yours, pal……
I went to a wedding in my hometown a couple of years ago and caught up with some of my old friends – and reconnected with some people who I knew but never considered friends. Funny how you choose your friends differently now, hu? Anyway, my friend “TJ” and I decided that we would make a CD for each other that said something about who we are. TJ is a huge music buff such as I (although I’m sure I could kick his butt at my ‘six-pack’ game) so the task was to pick a variety of songs and explain why.
I went through my iPod and all my songs and came up with a list. This task was harder than I thought…and I’m not sure what they say about me, but here’s my list:
1) I’ll Be Around by The Spinners – my favorite song of all time.
2) Beast of Burden by the Rolling Stones – my second favorite song of all time.
3) Bitches Ain’t Shit by Ben Folds – this song cracks me up – what is funnier than a hard core rap song sung like a 50’s cocktail lounge song?
4) Alone Again by Gilbert O’Sullivan – this is the saddest song ever written.
5) Cool Change by the Little River Band – great driving tune…”I was born in the sign of water and it’s there that I feel my best”.
6) Grow Old Along with Me by Mary Chapin Carpenter (written by John Lennon) – my wedding song.
7) Groove is in the Heart by the DeeLites – best dance song EVER
8) I Touch Myself by The Divinyls – my karaoke song
9) Love Will Keep us Together by The Captain & Tenille – my other karaoke song
10) Auld Lange Sine by Dan Fogelberg – Great lyrics…this song is about looking back at high school and the choices we make to become who we are today.
So this is my list of songs – I’m not sure what they say about me. And TJ? I’m still waiting for that CD of yours, pal……
Monday, February 18, 2008
Take That You Idiots!
Everett Events Center Board of Directors:
Earl Dutton - PresidentGary Weikel - Vice PresidentThomas Gaffney - Treasurer Karen Shaw - Secretary Mark Olson - Board Member
2000 Hewitt Avenue VIA FACSIMILE and REGULAR MAIL 425.322.2601
Suite 200 Everett, WA 98201
February 18, 2008
Dear Board:
I am writing you with a serious concern over the consistency of enforcement of the rules by your security personnel during Everett Silvertips Games. My husband and I are season ticket holders of the Silvertips. We sit in Section 119 Row 14 Seats 19 & 20. We have also purchased a large ticket package to have the 2 seats to either the right or left of us during the regular season. We enjoy the games and have made many friends in our section.
Our problem has been with the season ticket holders in Section 119 Row 15 seats 16 & 17. While I realize that they have been season ticket holders for 5 years, it does not, however, give them carte blanche to continually and consistently use inappropriate and unacceptable language.
On November 16, 2007 two friends joined my husband to watch the game. During this game, there was a scrum at the south end of the ice. My friend and his son stood up (along with the crowd) to watch the action. Row 115 yelled ‘down in front’ a couple of times. The son turned around and said they would be seated in just a minute. Row 115 continued to yell at them until finally the son said ‘ you don’t have to be a bitch, I will sit down’. Row 115 reported them to Security and they were removed. I am not defending our guests’ behavior, rather, using it to illustrate my next point.
On Saturday, February 16, 2008 my husband and I attended the game. The lady in Row 115 yelled down her row to another fan that he shouldn’t bring his girlfriend to the game because he is married. This didn’t seem to be something the whole section needed to hear, so I turned around and said to the man ‘it that really appropriate at the game?’ and he said “Shut the fuck up” and stuck his tongue out at me. I immediately reported the incident to security who ‘warned’ them. Please be advised that this is not the first time my husband and I have asked that they not use the “f-word” when yelling at the refs or players because of the children who sit in our section – an issue that I have reported to Devon at the Silvertips office.
I am asking that you investigate this incident, reprimand the folks in Row 115 for their consistent use of inappropriate language and uniformly enforce your policy to remove fans from the arena who use rude and abusive language. If you fail to do the above, I’m worried that the people in Row 115 will continue to escalate their behaviors and language until people don’t come to games and fail to renew their season tickets.
I am available to speak to you regarding this matter as well as provide any witnesses should you care to speak with them. I am asking that you inform me at your earliest convenience that this matter has been dealt with and what your proposed remedy is for the situation.
I look forward to many years as a Silvertips Season Ticket Holder and thank you for enforcing your rules so that everyone enjoys their visits to your facility.
Sincerely,
Laura W.
(address)
cc: Doug Soetaert, Everett Silvertips General Manager
Aaron Wilson, Senior Ticket Account Executive
Devon Wold, Sr. Ticket Account Exec. / Client Services Mgr
Rob Ramsburgh , Game Operations Manager
Earl Dutton - PresidentGary Weikel - Vice PresidentThomas Gaffney - Treasurer Karen Shaw - Secretary Mark Olson - Board Member
2000 Hewitt Avenue VIA FACSIMILE and REGULAR MAIL 425.322.2601
Suite 200 Everett, WA 98201
February 18, 2008
Dear Board:
I am writing you with a serious concern over the consistency of enforcement of the rules by your security personnel during Everett Silvertips Games. My husband and I are season ticket holders of the Silvertips. We sit in Section 119 Row 14 Seats 19 & 20. We have also purchased a large ticket package to have the 2 seats to either the right or left of us during the regular season. We enjoy the games and have made many friends in our section.
Our problem has been with the season ticket holders in Section 119 Row 15 seats 16 & 17. While I realize that they have been season ticket holders for 5 years, it does not, however, give them carte blanche to continually and consistently use inappropriate and unacceptable language.
On November 16, 2007 two friends joined my husband to watch the game. During this game, there was a scrum at the south end of the ice. My friend and his son stood up (along with the crowd) to watch the action. Row 115 yelled ‘down in front’ a couple of times. The son turned around and said they would be seated in just a minute. Row 115 continued to yell at them until finally the son said ‘ you don’t have to be a bitch, I will sit down’. Row 115 reported them to Security and they were removed. I am not defending our guests’ behavior, rather, using it to illustrate my next point.
On Saturday, February 16, 2008 my husband and I attended the game. The lady in Row 115 yelled down her row to another fan that he shouldn’t bring his girlfriend to the game because he is married. This didn’t seem to be something the whole section needed to hear, so I turned around and said to the man ‘it that really appropriate at the game?’ and he said “Shut the fuck up” and stuck his tongue out at me. I immediately reported the incident to security who ‘warned’ them. Please be advised that this is not the first time my husband and I have asked that they not use the “f-word” when yelling at the refs or players because of the children who sit in our section – an issue that I have reported to Devon at the Silvertips office.
I am asking that you investigate this incident, reprimand the folks in Row 115 for their consistent use of inappropriate language and uniformly enforce your policy to remove fans from the arena who use rude and abusive language. If you fail to do the above, I’m worried that the people in Row 115 will continue to escalate their behaviors and language until people don’t come to games and fail to renew their season tickets.
I am available to speak to you regarding this matter as well as provide any witnesses should you care to speak with them. I am asking that you inform me at your earliest convenience that this matter has been dealt with and what your proposed remedy is for the situation.
I look forward to many years as a Silvertips Season Ticket Holder and thank you for enforcing your rules so that everyone enjoys their visits to your facility.
Sincerely,
Laura W.
(address)
cc: Doug Soetaert, Everett Silvertips General Manager
Aaron Wilson, Senior Ticket Account Executive
Devon Wold, Sr. Ticket Account Exec. / Client Services Mgr
Rob Ramsburgh , Game Operations Manager
Friday, February 15, 2008
Pet Peeve #1
Yeah...we all have 'em - a pet peeve or two. I didn't really even discover how much this little ditty annoyed me until the other night.
At my work I serve on a lot of committees - and they mostly meet in the evenings. Therefore, I'm usually the last one out the door and heading home later than the average bear. The other night I jumped into the car prepared to play my favorite game on the way home (it's called 4 play but it's been expanded to the six pack). I have XM Satellite radio and I start at the 70's station, go to the 80's, 90's, soft rock, sunny rock then love songs. The goal is to name title and artist on all six stations. My personal best is 6 times hitting the six pack.
Ok, so I'm on the road (admittedly rockin' out to a Def Leppard tune on the 80's station) and I notice this tiny little car beside me. Contained in this tin can on wheels is a couple of guys who looked like they had just gotten off work at a construction site (I'm not looking down on them - my hubby is in construction). I guess they saw the blonde hair and decided that I would just voluntarily give them my ten digits. Really - when was the last time that move worked for ya, guys? Seriously...some blonde driving in a nice SUV just rolls down the window and shouts her phone number to a couple of guys? And then when I ignore you, I'm a bitch? That's how the game works?
Hubby is a biker - with a really nice bike. He's told me stories of getting flashed by girls. I say "Good for You" that bike is finally paying off. It's not something I've ever done to a biker, but hey, god bless ya chippies who think it's fun. What is not fun is all the delivery vans, truckers and just plain sleezy dudes who think it's cool to write "Flash Friday" or "Leg Check 15 feet ahead" in the dirt on the back of your rig.
Don't get me wrong - there's nothing I like more than attention - after all, it's "Lights, Camera, Laura". And getting looked at is nice - especially for a girl who grew up with a mom who looked like Lonnie Anderson and 2 BFF's who are smokin' hot. And don't get me wrong - there is nothing better than a bunch of cute guys smiling and waving or a bunch of young kids who think I'm a MILF. But come on - do we need to have the talk about who is in your league and who is not?
Ok - I guess we do. I have a lot of "Stupid Laura Theories" (not to be confused with "Stupid Laura Trivia"):
1) Guys will attract the best women they can afford; and
2) Guys don't realize who is and who is not in their league.
Think about it -how many times have you seen a gorgeous woman with a really ugly rich dude? And how many times have you girls been hit on by a guy who doesn't realize that the sum total of who you are and what you've become is from already having dated in the minors?
I once heard a comedian say that our license plates should be our cell phone numbers - and it seemed like a really good idea when I used to get road rage - but now I'm not so sure I could handle all the calls......
At my work I serve on a lot of committees - and they mostly meet in the evenings. Therefore, I'm usually the last one out the door and heading home later than the average bear. The other night I jumped into the car prepared to play my favorite game on the way home (it's called 4 play but it's been expanded to the six pack). I have XM Satellite radio and I start at the 70's station, go to the 80's, 90's, soft rock, sunny rock then love songs. The goal is to name title and artist on all six stations. My personal best is 6 times hitting the six pack.
Ok, so I'm on the road (admittedly rockin' out to a Def Leppard tune on the 80's station) and I notice this tiny little car beside me. Contained in this tin can on wheels is a couple of guys who looked like they had just gotten off work at a construction site (I'm not looking down on them - my hubby is in construction). I guess they saw the blonde hair and decided that I would just voluntarily give them my ten digits. Really - when was the last time that move worked for ya, guys? Seriously...some blonde driving in a nice SUV just rolls down the window and shouts her phone number to a couple of guys? And then when I ignore you, I'm a bitch? That's how the game works?
Hubby is a biker - with a really nice bike. He's told me stories of getting flashed by girls. I say "Good for You" that bike is finally paying off. It's not something I've ever done to a biker, but hey, god bless ya chippies who think it's fun. What is not fun is all the delivery vans, truckers and just plain sleezy dudes who think it's cool to write "Flash Friday" or "Leg Check 15 feet ahead" in the dirt on the back of your rig.
Don't get me wrong - there's nothing I like more than attention - after all, it's "Lights, Camera, Laura". And getting looked at is nice - especially for a girl who grew up with a mom who looked like Lonnie Anderson and 2 BFF's who are smokin' hot. And don't get me wrong - there is nothing better than a bunch of cute guys smiling and waving or a bunch of young kids who think I'm a MILF. But come on - do we need to have the talk about who is in your league and who is not?
Ok - I guess we do. I have a lot of "Stupid Laura Theories" (not to be confused with "Stupid Laura Trivia"):
1) Guys will attract the best women they can afford; and
2) Guys don't realize who is and who is not in their league.
Think about it -how many times have you seen a gorgeous woman with a really ugly rich dude? And how many times have you girls been hit on by a guy who doesn't realize that the sum total of who you are and what you've become is from already having dated in the minors?
I once heard a comedian say that our license plates should be our cell phone numbers - and it seemed like a really good idea when I used to get road rage - but now I'm not so sure I could handle all the calls......
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Hockey In Heels 2008
OK - here's the scoop - I went to Hockey in Heels tonight with "The Sus". We had a blast. First of all, Dane Crowley, Clayton Bauer, Shane Harper, Leland Irving, Zach Hamill and Zach Dailey were all there. These kids are just too adorable. It's very clear they like each other and they like being in Everett.
The evening started with Coach Becanic introducing himself and telling his story about how he came to Everett. You guys aren't really interested, but it's a pretty interesting story - it reminds me of all the jobs I worked for little or no pay in order to pay my dues and move up. The kids then each told their stories. Unbelievable what some of these kids have gone through to play in the WHL.
The second part of the evening was trivia - normally my strong suit - but not Tips trivia. The players gave out autographed pictures of themselves as prizes. We then all wrote down questions and the players and Coach answered them. Section 119 would have been proud of me - I had the toughest question and they saved it until the end. The question was this: What is your plan to play more consistently for the rest of the season? I gotta say, I wasn't that impressed with the answer - that the top 5 teams in the league are better than before. The Tips went into the playoffs with 35 wins and now it is conceivable that the top 3-5 teams will enter with over 50 wins. He also mentioned the injury bug - btw - Steffonovich has gone back to Princeton.
The funnest part? I got picked to play charades with Bauer, Hamill and Harper. Yeah, I carried my team (they only answered 1 question) but we lost by a point. Whatever - who wanted a crappy pink zip front hoodie that's onsale in the store anyway? I talked some serious smack to Leland - I think he got nervous but he was able to brave it out. I am confident I will take the competition next year.
I have to say - it was a fun night - and I went in totally prepared to dislike Becanic. But I can't. He is charming, the kids love him, and he has some interesting ways of teaching and getting respect from his players. I liked him, sorry Hockey Tom and Leo...
The evening started with Coach Becanic introducing himself and telling his story about how he came to Everett. You guys aren't really interested, but it's a pretty interesting story - it reminds me of all the jobs I worked for little or no pay in order to pay my dues and move up. The kids then each told their stories. Unbelievable what some of these kids have gone through to play in the WHL.
The second part of the evening was trivia - normally my strong suit - but not Tips trivia. The players gave out autographed pictures of themselves as prizes. We then all wrote down questions and the players and Coach answered them. Section 119 would have been proud of me - I had the toughest question and they saved it until the end. The question was this: What is your plan to play more consistently for the rest of the season? I gotta say, I wasn't that impressed with the answer - that the top 5 teams in the league are better than before. The Tips went into the playoffs with 35 wins and now it is conceivable that the top 3-5 teams will enter with over 50 wins. He also mentioned the injury bug - btw - Steffonovich has gone back to Princeton.
The funnest part? I got picked to play charades with Bauer, Hamill and Harper. Yeah, I carried my team (they only answered 1 question) but we lost by a point. Whatever - who wanted a crappy pink zip front hoodie that's onsale in the store anyway? I talked some serious smack to Leland - I think he got nervous but he was able to brave it out. I am confident I will take the competition next year.
I have to say - it was a fun night - and I went in totally prepared to dislike Becanic. But I can't. He is charming, the kids love him, and he has some interesting ways of teaching and getting respect from his players. I liked him, sorry Hockey Tom and Leo...
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Recap of Laurakah and the Week in Review
First, let me say that for my very last birthday - it was the best ever. I invented this crazy holiday for the gifts/attention and my friends didn't fail to disappoint. It has been said that you can judge a person by the company they keep and I am incredibly humbled by the amount of people who braved traffic, weather and illness to turn out at the Tips game for me. Thanks to all of you for the gifts - but thanks most of all for the gift of your friendship.
While we are on the subject of gifts - wow...I got some good ones! I got a hysterical modern slang dictionary (don't laugh or I'll pop a cap in your ass), 3 crowns, a fabulous pink boa and lots of games. Speaking of games - do you not know my competitive side? How many times do I challenge ya'll to games only to walk away the victor? Do you guys really want to go through the humiliation of me kickin' your butts?
Highlights of my gifts were the flowers I received from my brother, my daughter buying me 8 gifts (so so so thoughtful) and my mom getting my gifts there on the actual day. I loved everything and will be working to get thank you notes out! And another great gift was my daughter's friend having a beautiful baby girl on my birthday! A Laurakah baby...poor world - there will be another one of me.
So, now to the Tips game - we won! And while a small part of me was sad for the Prince George Cougars (only because I like the name) there were two great games this weekend. I can't really recap the games only to say they were exciting, our passes looked good and we won. Highlights of the game for me were not on the ice but in the crowd.
The 119ers were in full form. You guys rock - you welcomed my guests and participated in the Laurakah festivities. Everytime the Tips scored, Hockey Tom would turn around and give me the high five and say that goal was for my birthday. And thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Foghorn Leghorn for amusing my guests by singing the Canadian and US National Anthems in your usual tone deaf loud voices. My friends enjoyed the renditions.
So, Saturday's game - so funny for different reasons. Boys, when you use the 'family' restroom - PUT THE DAMN SEAT DOWN. I was in line for the restroom when out walks Hockey Tom...but he left the SEAT UP. I had to come out and put the boy in his place for that rookie move. And I was unimpressed with Leo's defense that it's a man's world at a hockey game and the seat should be welded up. But the funniest was when someone in our section won the autographed hockey stick and Hockey Tom started heckling the mascot Lincoln.
Mind you - Leo had already told a group of boys to have a seat when they were having a Chinese Fire Drill while the game was going and Hockey Tom yelled at 2 ten year old kids selling 50/50 tickets to sit down. Hockey Tom then decided to call out Lincoln. The usual - 'down in front' wasn't working for Lincoln. Hockey Tom continued to jaw and Lincoln climbed over the seats and called him out. Funny stuff - but not the end. Lincoln came back later, stood behind Hockey Tom and threw popcorn. The clincher was when Lincoln offered Hockey Tom some of his popcorn then threw it in his face.
Final Score - Lincoln 1...Hockey Tom 0.
But the little girl who witnessed it in our section was the big winner...she told her dad "I had the best Lincoln night EVER".
While we are on the subject of gifts - wow...I got some good ones! I got a hysterical modern slang dictionary (don't laugh or I'll pop a cap in your ass), 3 crowns, a fabulous pink boa and lots of games. Speaking of games - do you not know my competitive side? How many times do I challenge ya'll to games only to walk away the victor? Do you guys really want to go through the humiliation of me kickin' your butts?
Highlights of my gifts were the flowers I received from my brother, my daughter buying me 8 gifts (so so so thoughtful) and my mom getting my gifts there on the actual day. I loved everything and will be working to get thank you notes out! And another great gift was my daughter's friend having a beautiful baby girl on my birthday! A Laurakah baby...poor world - there will be another one of me.
So, now to the Tips game - we won! And while a small part of me was sad for the Prince George Cougars (only because I like the name) there were two great games this weekend. I can't really recap the games only to say they were exciting, our passes looked good and we won. Highlights of the game for me were not on the ice but in the crowd.
The 119ers were in full form. You guys rock - you welcomed my guests and participated in the Laurakah festivities. Everytime the Tips scored, Hockey Tom would turn around and give me the high five and say that goal was for my birthday. And thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Foghorn Leghorn for amusing my guests by singing the Canadian and US National Anthems in your usual tone deaf loud voices. My friends enjoyed the renditions.
So, Saturday's game - so funny for different reasons. Boys, when you use the 'family' restroom - PUT THE DAMN SEAT DOWN. I was in line for the restroom when out walks Hockey Tom...but he left the SEAT UP. I had to come out and put the boy in his place for that rookie move. And I was unimpressed with Leo's defense that it's a man's world at a hockey game and the seat should be welded up. But the funniest was when someone in our section won the autographed hockey stick and Hockey Tom started heckling the mascot Lincoln.
Mind you - Leo had already told a group of boys to have a seat when they were having a Chinese Fire Drill while the game was going and Hockey Tom yelled at 2 ten year old kids selling 50/50 tickets to sit down. Hockey Tom then decided to call out Lincoln. The usual - 'down in front' wasn't working for Lincoln. Hockey Tom continued to jaw and Lincoln climbed over the seats and called him out. Funny stuff - but not the end. Lincoln came back later, stood behind Hockey Tom and threw popcorn. The clincher was when Lincoln offered Hockey Tom some of his popcorn then threw it in his face.
Final Score - Lincoln 1...Hockey Tom 0.
But the little girl who witnessed it in our section was the big winner...she told her dad "I had the best Lincoln night EVER".
Thursday, February 7, 2008
14 Years of Sobriety
This is the day I truly celebrate - 14 years of sobriety. For those of you without a calculator that means I quit drinking the day after my 25th birthday. I want to explain what my alcoholism and sobriety mean to me. This is not professional advice. This does not apply to every alcoholic. I am no longer an AA member so these are not their ideas. But here goes.
Inevitably when you spend more than 30 minutes with me, I will bring up the fact that I am a recovering alcoholic. This is something that defines me - but in a good way. I'm an open personality - and for this reason I tell people about my sobriety because: 1) It keeps me accountable. The more people who know, the more people I am accountable to. 2) It defines me - for I am nothing without my sobriety. That sounds kinda ominous, but it's true. My life, my friends, my job, my passions - I wouldn't have any of this without my sobriety.
My sobriety, while something I am very open about, is personal. This is a disease, but a disease that can be put into permanent remission with constant vigilance and maintenance. I believe there is a genetic component - and I believe that this was a family genetic situation for me. But let's be clear...this is not my parent's fault. This was my choice. Behaviors are choices - and while I may not have had a lot of options when choosing - I did make choices. I'm accountable for those. No one ever held me down and poured beer down my throat (ok - they did, but beer bongs and upside-down margaritas were my idea).
However, something most people don't get - it's less about a physical addiction and more about behavior patterns. For me - it was about being numb and fear. Fear that I couldn't handle pain and a real fear that I couldn't handle success. It was about hiding from feelings...covering up what I wasn't prepared to deal with. For me, this has also manifested itself in other areas: shopping (now something I enjoy but don't have to do), being overweight (afraid no one would take me seriously as an attractive woman - the CIT I am now ;), and self sabotage...meaning that just when I was about to succeed I would somehow screw things up for myself so I could sit back and say "See - I can't be successful - you were wrong."
I've had to really work the 12 steps (and you CANNOT remain sober without them) and guess what - it's not over. Everyday there in an opportunity to put into practice at least one step that I have learned. I've reached out to other alcoholics only to see them fail. I've lost family members who ultimately died or took their lives because of this disease. And I've had people spit in my face when I tried to apologize - and lost a person really close to me because of my behaviors when drinking.
So, now let's get back to dealing with me - first of all - here's the annoying part of being an alcoholic when you mention it to someone invariably a few things happen:
1) They tell you how much they drink (I don't care - this is a decision for ME and ME ONLY)
2) They tell you how much someone else drinks (I don't care - this is a decision for ME and ME ONLY)
3) They know another practicing or recovering alcoholic and want to tell me about how much they drink/don't drink (I don't care - this is a decision for ME and ME ONLY).
It must be like being a Doctor and seeing a patient outside the office and asking them how they are doing - or working for a mobile phone company - people want a free phone, hate their service or just wanna bitch about the salesperson. If you take nothing away from this - take this - I am not judging you. My alcoholism has nothing to do with a judgement on you or anyone drinking. I really don't care how much you do/don't drink. And guess what, if you do drink too much - I can drive you home.
Here's where I'm more unusual than most - I have wine and beer in my house...there's probably some hard liquor there too...drinking is ok with me - I just don't get into drunks. And if you're clingy - that's a recipe for disaster. I do avoid food that is not cooked with alcohol in it and don't take Nyquil unless it's in the capsule form. I do, however, enjoy non-alcoholic beer but not wine - just yucky grapejuice for the most part.
Don't treat me differently - I'm still the life of any party and the one person in the whole crowd who will ride the mechanical surf board - no liquid courage necessary. Don't think I am judging you. Don't think I'm imposing my thoughts and beliefs on you. And don't impose yours on me.
Happy Birthday to me - I'm 14 - and while this number is large, I'm still taking it one day at a time.
Inevitably when you spend more than 30 minutes with me, I will bring up the fact that I am a recovering alcoholic. This is something that defines me - but in a good way. I'm an open personality - and for this reason I tell people about my sobriety because: 1) It keeps me accountable. The more people who know, the more people I am accountable to. 2) It defines me - for I am nothing without my sobriety. That sounds kinda ominous, but it's true. My life, my friends, my job, my passions - I wouldn't have any of this without my sobriety.
My sobriety, while something I am very open about, is personal. This is a disease, but a disease that can be put into permanent remission with constant vigilance and maintenance. I believe there is a genetic component - and I believe that this was a family genetic situation for me. But let's be clear...this is not my parent's fault. This was my choice. Behaviors are choices - and while I may not have had a lot of options when choosing - I did make choices. I'm accountable for those. No one ever held me down and poured beer down my throat (ok - they did, but beer bongs and upside-down margaritas were my idea).
However, something most people don't get - it's less about a physical addiction and more about behavior patterns. For me - it was about being numb and fear. Fear that I couldn't handle pain and a real fear that I couldn't handle success. It was about hiding from feelings...covering up what I wasn't prepared to deal with. For me, this has also manifested itself in other areas: shopping (now something I enjoy but don't have to do), being overweight (afraid no one would take me seriously as an attractive woman - the CIT I am now ;), and self sabotage...meaning that just when I was about to succeed I would somehow screw things up for myself so I could sit back and say "See - I can't be successful - you were wrong."
I've had to really work the 12 steps (and you CANNOT remain sober without them) and guess what - it's not over. Everyday there in an opportunity to put into practice at least one step that I have learned. I've reached out to other alcoholics only to see them fail. I've lost family members who ultimately died or took their lives because of this disease. And I've had people spit in my face when I tried to apologize - and lost a person really close to me because of my behaviors when drinking.
So, now let's get back to dealing with me - first of all - here's the annoying part of being an alcoholic when you mention it to someone invariably a few things happen:
1) They tell you how much they drink (I don't care - this is a decision for ME and ME ONLY)
2) They tell you how much someone else drinks (I don't care - this is a decision for ME and ME ONLY)
3) They know another practicing or recovering alcoholic and want to tell me about how much they drink/don't drink (I don't care - this is a decision for ME and ME ONLY).
It must be like being a Doctor and seeing a patient outside the office and asking them how they are doing - or working for a mobile phone company - people want a free phone, hate their service or just wanna bitch about the salesperson. If you take nothing away from this - take this - I am not judging you. My alcoholism has nothing to do with a judgement on you or anyone drinking. I really don't care how much you do/don't drink. And guess what, if you do drink too much - I can drive you home.
Here's where I'm more unusual than most - I have wine and beer in my house...there's probably some hard liquor there too...drinking is ok with me - I just don't get into drunks. And if you're clingy - that's a recipe for disaster. I do avoid food that is not cooked with alcohol in it and don't take Nyquil unless it's in the capsule form. I do, however, enjoy non-alcoholic beer but not wine - just yucky grapejuice for the most part.
Don't treat me differently - I'm still the life of any party and the one person in the whole crowd who will ride the mechanical surf board - no liquid courage necessary. Don't think I am judging you. Don't think I'm imposing my thoughts and beliefs on you. And don't impose yours on me.
Happy Birthday to me - I'm 14 - and while this number is large, I'm still taking it one day at a time.
Big game tonight for Laurakah! Go Tips!
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
It's Here - Thirty Frickin' Nine
Welcome to Day 7 of Laurakah
Ok - deep breath - I've practiced this...so let me try it here...I'm 39. Wow - 39 - wow. It's unbelievable. I woke up this morning and it slapped me right in the face - 39.
So here we go...rather than dwell on all the negatives - I am a fun girl after all - let's do another list...
Eight things I can no longer get away with:
1) Wearing a miniskirt. The legs are still good, but it's just inappropriate at my age.
2) Going platinum blonde - but then again, I'm not sure I could ever get away with that.
3) Shopping at Aeropostale or Zumiez or Pac Sun.
4) Wearing junior's sizes.
5) Wearing glitter.
6) Working at Hooters (although I can still make 'em jealous)
7) Wearing spandex (doing it in the 80's was enough)
8) Referring to myself as a 'girl'.
Eight things I CAN do that I couldn't before:
1) Say I have a college degree.
2) Say I have experience (go ahead and read into that what you will).
3) Tell people what I think of them and not worry about getting fired or whether they like me or not.
4) Speak from a confidence born from living.
5) Count the laugh lines by my eyes (I earned those).
6) Say no to things that aren't worth it.
7) Say that I've been hurt and really mean it.
8) Say that I've been loved and really mean it.
Maybe this 39 thing won't be so bad, especially since it's the last birthday I plan on having.
Friday's blog: What 14 years of sobriety means to me
Saturday's blog: Silvertips Game, Laurakah party pics, and more smack about the F. Leghorn's!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Getting Older – It’s Not for The Weak
Welcome to Day 6 of Laurakah!
Alrighty – it’s the day before my birthday and here is it – I will be 39 on February 7. Not such a big deal right? It’s not 40 – and I can legally vote, run for Congress and buy alcohol and cigarettes. The big ‘4-Oh” means I can run for US President – big whoop. Here’s the thing – I’m having a hard time with this number.
I’m going to be vulnerable and go deep with you, folks. I’m not dealing well with this birthday. I mean sure, there’s the parties for Laurakah and the 8 days of gifts, but I think when all the hooplah is over – I’m gonna be a nightmare to live with.
Except it’s not ‘gonna be a nightmare’ – it already is – at least for my close friends who have had to put up with me daily asking every stranger I meet to guess my age. I then run to anyone who will listen to make sure they agree (anything under 34) or disagree (anything over 34). I’m making my friends crazy – but I can’t stop.
Why is it when I look in the mirror I see someone who is young? I’m full of energy and confidence. In the last couple of years, I have learned to accept certain things about myself: I am not stick thin, I do not have six pack abs and I’m never going to Medical School.
I’ve learned to look for the things I like about myself instead of obsess on the things I don’t like. I’ve learned to channel my passion into what truly makes a difference. I’ve learned that being an open personality is a good thing and not a character flaw. And I’ve learned that the things that are really important in life are not things. So why am I freaking out?
My BFF Nanette and I have always had “labels” for the milestones in life – and I guess I’m having to readjust how I want to be labeled. For instance:
“Chippie” – defined as a woman/girl who is 18 – 25 years old. These are the ‘super cute/super sweet’ girls who spend time on their looks and care about what others think of them. (I ended up with this pet name from a guy I dated in college)
“Hottie” – defined as a woman 25-35 years old (I really want this to go to 45). These are the women who are becoming more confident in themselves and care about their looks. They can still turn heads at a bar.
“CIT” (Cougar in Training) – defined as a woman 35-45 (sometimes referred to as a ‘MILF’). These women are at the top of their career, ultra smart and ultra confident. These women are stylish and are sexy because of their confidence. This was my mom growing up -- I think the guys I dated came over to see her - she was hot!
“Cougar” – defined as women 45+. Great examples of Cougars are Jane Seymour, Morgan Fairchild and Goldie Hawn. Do you really need an explanation with these examples?
So, here’s my plan: I will tough it out and follow the words of Eleanor Roosevelt and “Do Something That Scares You Every Day”. I will don my party frock (which is a hockey jersey), mingle with my fans at Laurakah and stop driving my friends crazy.
But even though I’m a CIT, I’m never gonna stop the quest to remain in the “Hottie” category for 20 more years…
p.s. Anyone who posts who tells me to lighten up or that I’m just a kid will find their remarks deleted!
Monday, February 4, 2008
The 8 Best Bumper Stickers
Since my post "8 Things that Piss Me Off" was a huge hit to my family and friends, I thought I would compile another list: the 8 Best Bumper Stickers along with my commentary.
Please note that bumper stickers can make even the most expensive car look tacky and therefore I will not put one on my car, but for those of you not afraid to look cheesy, this is my salute to you!
8. "If You're Not the Lead Dog, the View Never Changes". Think about that.
7. "Jesus Loves You - Everyone Else Thinks You're a Bitch". Ok - there's another version of this, but my dad reads my blog and I kinda need God's PR guy on my side...
6. "Those Of You Who Think You Know It All Really Annoy Those of Us Who Do". Truer words were never spoken. You guys really do annoy me.
5. "Would You Still Fight for My Unborn Fetus if You Knew It was Gay?" Yeah, a big jab at my pro-life homophobic friends, but I really really love this one.
4. "Be Nice to America or We'll Bring Democracy to Your Country". Ok, I made a promise I wouldn't get political, but how appropriate is this right now?
3. "There are Three Kinds of People in This World - Those Who Can Do Math and Those Who Cannot". Great sentiment - only wish I had thought of it first.
2. "Well Behaved Women Rarely Make History". Love it! Loved it so much, it's the license plate holder for Jasmine (Royal Motor Coach to the Queen). Truly - where would we be if Rosa Parks had just sat in the back of the bus and said nothing?
1. "You lost - Get Over It". Read things that piss me off - I can't stand condescending or biggoted behavior.
An Open Letter to My High School Teachers
Welcome to Day 4 of Laurakah!
I've been doing some reminiscing...you know, a retrospective look at all the experiences that shaped me. It's impossible to do that without thinking back to the time in my life that was both awesome and a nightmare at the same time. Let me say this - I have deep respect for teachers - and would like to think I have made them proud (except for my geography teacher because, well, I can't even point Canada out on a map)...
Remember when you told me that I needed to learn Algebra/Trigonometry because I would use it later in life?
You were wrong. I don’t use it. I don’t remember it. I can use a calculator and operate an excel spreadsheet just fine, thank you! Ok - I can't operate an excel spreadsheet, but I know people who can...
Remember when you told me that I should pay attention because no one would ever PAY me to talk?
You were wrong. I DO get paid to talk. I talk all the time: phone, cell phone, e-mail, presentations, negotiations – I think there is even a degree you can earn in college….B.S. (It just stands for something different in my world.) Basically, my whole day is spent talking and guess what? People actually wait on hold to talk to me – they leave me messages asking me to call them. And get this, I get paid to do this!
Remember when you told me I needed to climb the rope in gym class?
What the hell for? I have never, ever even been close to being in a situation where I need that skill! What were you thinking?!
Remember when you told me I shouldn’t write notes?
Yeah, another wrong turn for ya – I write notes all the time: thank you notes, notes to files, e-mails. In fact, this may have been the most useful thing I learned in High School with the notable exception of typing – THAT I use all the time.
Remember when you told me that I shouldn’t socialize so much in class?
I get paid to socialize. Of course, it is called “networking” in the grown-up world. In fact, that’s my whole job. And guess what? I’m good at it!
So remember this kids - do your homework, pay attention in class and respect your teachers. You can forget all the dumb stuff they taught you later!
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Tips Loser Laser Light Show
A Gift for Laurakah Day 3
Welcome to Day 3 of Laurakah! My thanks to all of you who again showered me with gifts...you get me! To the left is a shirt chosen for me by my BFF Nan - how well does she know me???
Although the evening started with dinner at the Pig with some other 119'ers (lots of fun) - the game didn't end that great. But you know where to go for game info...
Welcome to Day 3 of Laurakah! My thanks to all of you who again showered me with gifts...you get me! To the left is a shirt chosen for me by my BFF Nan - how well does she know me???Although the evening started with dinner at the Pig with some other 119'ers (lots of fun) - the game didn't end that great. But you know where to go for game info...
So, Randy and I bought season tickets, then purchased the 2 seats either to the right or left of us for the season. This allows us to bring friends to the game and allowed our daughter to have a lot of games to attend with us. It's the only way to get a 19 year old to spend time with us...
We have a running joke in our family - whenever we bring a new guest to the game, we always build up the Pacific Power Batteries Laser Light Show. I've been known to tell people that it's like a Pink Floyd Concert on acid. We then make sure our guests are in their seats in time to view the show...then laugh our asses off.
Are you serious? I could grab a flashlight and some tissue paper and do a better job than that! How lame can you be? The only thing worse than our loser light show is Seattle's!
Did someone slip Mr. and Mrs. Foghorn my blog address? They were very subdued - but unfortunately they talked some smack about my boys - apparently when Hockey Tom and Leo heckled the Giants' goaltender...Mr. Foghorn said they were idiots....really - taken a look in the mirror lately? And buy some pants for the love of God...
Friday, February 1, 2008
I Love Not Camping - to my dad with love...
Welcome to Day 2 of Laurakah! My thanks to all of you who called to give me good wishes (cheapskates - that is NOT a gift). And my heartfelt thanks to all of you who truly get me and bought me gifts. I will feature your gifts in this blog as part of my gratitude. I bought myself a gift as well - behold my new luggage tag!
Let's talk about the significance of this luggage tag - it could not suit me any better - camping sucks! And people don't use luggage when they camp - even more perfect. I know some of you enjoy it (God Bless Ya) but as much as my dad tried, I hate camping.
To understand my distaste for camping, you must understand what my dad and step-mother made me endure - but don't pick up the phone to call Child Protective Services, for alas, I have forgiven them.
Picture this: I'm eight (ish) years old and my dad and step-mother spring on me "Hey, we're going camping". Now, if you're anyone else, you're excited, right? I was filled with dread. So we loaded up the car with mummy bags (really - who named those things?), pup tents and jugs of water. The jugs of water should have been a clue, but I bravely packed my jeans and sweatshirts into a duffel bag and got in the car.
Ok, folks - I grew up in Nevada - and what grows in Nevada? Nothing. Why does nothing grow in Nevada? There is NO WATER. IT IS A DESERT. So the fam gets to the "campsite" - aka flat area surrounded by dirt - and set up the pup tent. Then what do we do on this big adventure? NOTHING. IT IS A DESERT. But no, my dad was having a blast and we ended up sitting around a campfire doing NOTHING. What's more fun than doing NOTHING and getting dirty and not being able to shower I ask you...
On another family camping trip we went to Death Valley. Death Valley - what grows in Death Valley? NOTHING. IT IS A DESERT. My parents proceed to set up the famous pup tent in a dry creek bed (safe, right? After all - IT IS A DESERT). Except that there was a flash flood and my brother and I ended up soaking wet sitting in the back seat of our car while our campsite washed away. Nice.
That should have been it, except that it wasn't. I agreed, at the age of thirteen, to drive in a puke green VW Bus to Colorado with my family. At 13, your parents are the biggest dorks ever, but I thought at least previous pup tent camping was over because we had the bus...yeah right.
Although we stayed in RV parks, I don't think my dad could ever get used to the fact that at 13 I was more concerned with my looks than spending time with my family. I would get up every morning, go to the showers and put on makeup and do my hair. Normal girl stuff, right? I think my dad thought he could keep me as his little girl by outsmarting me and getting up earlier so I wouldn't have time for makeup and hair. Poor guy, he tried...
It was during this trip that I found the greatest discovery yet of my 13 years - the butane curling iron. All I had to do was go and take a shower, blow dry my hair, then hop in the bus to go down the road. The first day I set up my mirror and fired up the curling iron in the bus my dad knew he had been had.
So, I ask you, what is it about shoving clothes in a duffel bag, sitting around in dirt and doing NOTHING appeals to campers? Why would I leave my warm home, my shower and my comfy bed to camp? The good news about being an adult - I no longer have to. I love not camping. Happy Birthday to me.
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