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November 28, 2005

Self Congratulations

We get so much mail at our house. Despite the fact that Flounder and I both use internet banking and bill paying we still get plenty of mail from our banks. Despite the fact that we both get more than our share of promotional emails from our favorite stores, we still receive lots of heavy catalogs. More trees have died on our behalf than I care to imagine.

I recently order a large 2 feet wide x 2.5 feet deep x 3 feet high wheeled cart from the county to help us recycle all of the paper that comes into our house. Much to our dismay, last week our big blue recycling cart was stolen from the curb! Who would take a recycling cart for goodness sake? It was free! I am secretly hoping that the cart will turn up on the curb tomorrow and I can snatch it back.

Our missing cart however has not stopped me from seeking a solution for our mail problem. Really the stacks of useless paper coming to us via the postal service is real issue. So today I made a bold move when I called Pottery Barn, Harry and David, L.L. Bean, Sundance Catalog and Lands End and asked them to stop sending me catalogs. I told each company that I enjoyed their product and was happy to continue getting emails from them, but no more catalogs please. Contacting all of these companies took a grand total of 15 minutes.

Now if only I can cancel the local Gazette, I will be in business.

Posted by La at 2:31 PM | Comments (1)

November 25, 2005

Thanksgiving

I had a lovely day with my family yesterday. We had a delicious dinner at which I at more than my share, but not enough to make me ill, which sadly is a step forward for Thanksgiving. I honestly haven't had such a good time with my extended family for quite awhile. I very pleasent suprise.

Speaking of surprises, Flounder and I surprised ourselves and went shopping today. We had a delightful time and accomplished loads. I am already coming down the home stretch on my shopping and I am Oh! so happy about that development. We also picked up our holiday cards. There is a whole lot of writing in our future.

How I love Christmas!

Quote of the Day:
"I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits that strict justice."
Abraham Lincoln (1809 - 1865)

Posted by La at 5:28 PM | Comments (0)

November 20, 2005

People, We Have Wedding Dress!

1 full day shopping and 3 stores later, I am the proud owner of a (ordered) wedding dress and veil! I know, pretty quick huh? I won't say much more about it here (Flounder might be reading), however J. Wo took lots of pictures of the whole adventure. Feel free to pressure her into posting the shots.

Long story short, I am very pleased with myself. Whoo Hoo!

Posted by La at 1:29 PM | Comments (1)

November 18, 2005

Twice Shy

Twice in a row this week I was caught out in the cold with an inadequate jacket. I forgot how miserable being cold can make a girl. Today I made sure to to pack my gloves and wear my heavier fleece when I left the house. The down winter coat I have worn in recent years in entirely too big for me this season. I have been putting off buying a new coat, but if the weather over the last few days is any indication of the conditions to come, I am going to have to take the purchasing plunge.

I have created a ridiculously busy weekend for Flounder and I. Our will also include a yoga class, wedding dress shopping, a party in PA and dinner with Grandma H. I am trying to get into a positive frame of mind in preparation for wedding dress shopping Saturday afternoon, which I have been dreading for a few weeks now. Can we do it? YES WE CAN!

My love/hate relationship with food continues. This week the battle raged on, and I am not expecting good news from my weigh in tomorrow morning. We shall see.

On a more positive note, I feel really good about the in-class essay we were required to right last night. I was instucted to choose to films or two books to compareand contrast. I pulled a double whammy by choosing Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary. Haha! My brillance knows no bounds! I focused on the film versions so as not to muddy the water. I am rather pleased with myself.

Quote of the Day:
A mind, like a home, is furnished by its owner, so if one's life is cold and bare he can blame none but himself.
Louis L'Amour

Posted by La at 11:05 AM | Comments (0)

November 17, 2005

Shout Out

I want to send a shout out to my Sister in mouth pain, Signe. I have felt your pain before and will feel it again in January.

Vicadin!

Posted by La at 4:24 PM | Comments (0)

November 15, 2005

WEbring Assigment #16b - Metro Safety

My dear friend Ms. Rather Be Traveling was the victim of a mugging on the Metro last week and a witness to an assult on the transit system on Monday. I recommend you read her account to better understand the dangers you could encounter on Metro.

She gave us an alternative WEbring topic for today: Ways to stifle Metro´s enablement of crime on the Metro?

Personally, I think the easiest and most effective change Metro could make would be to halt trains in the nearest station when a crime is reported to a train operator. At least the criminal would not have the option of running amuck around the system while the Tranist police arrive. I also want to know how much it would cost to have a transit police officer in every metro station in the system. A 30 minute response time is not good enough.

Below are saftey tips from the Metro website.

For other takes on this topic see:
Write Again Soon
Bad Apologies
A Prize In Every Box
Post No Bills
Lugnochro

In Trains

  • Call boxes at the end of each rail car enable any rider to report an emergency to the operator. Train operator is in constant radio communication with Central Control.

  • Every rail car has an emergency door release behind the panel next to the middle doors.

  • The panel carries instructions for releasing the doors and evacuating passengers.

  • Door chimes alert passengers to stay clear of the doors as they open or close.

  • Operator has ready access to an emergency button that instantly locks all the wheels on the train.


    • Tips:

  • Do not run in the station.
    When waiting for a train, stand near other passengers. Do not stand on the platform's granite edge.

  • Promptly leave the platform after exiting the train.

  • Listen for instructions over the loudspeaker system in the event that station evacuation is necessary.

  • Don't purchase a Metro farecard or pass from people on the street. It might be counterfeit.

  • Always keep your jewelry and other valuables out of sight. Turn rings so that precious stones are on the palm side of your hand.
    Keep a firm grip on your purse. However, avoid wrapping the strap around your hand or wrist.

  • To prevent others from knowing where and how much money you are carrying, purchase a multi-ride farecard or a Metrorail pass.

  • If you need directions, ask the Metro station manager.

  • Never sleep on a train or bus.

    • Features

  • Call boxes mounted on pylons on station platforms enable passengers to report emergencies to the station manager.

  • Closed circuit video cameras cover every area of the station.
  • Monitors are in the station manager's kiosk.

  • Emergency call boxes are at the far end of station platforms and are every 800 feet along the tracks. Marked by blue lights, these boxes provide a hotline into Central Control and a button for bringing down third-rail power in extreme emergencies.

  • Clear, uninterrupted sight lines, an architectural feature of every station, practically eliminates areas where criminals can hide.

  • Recently enhanced lighting in all stations increases security by further reducing shadow areas that could be used for concealment.

  • Flashing lights on the platform edge warn of approaching trains.

  • Recessed area directly beneath station platform edge provides emergency shelter for anyone who falls from the platform when a train is approaching. Note: Anyone forced to use this area should use extreme care not to touch any part of the train while awaiting rescue. Exposed components beneath the car carry high voltage electricity.

  • Special antennas run through all tunnels to ensure high quality communication between police and fire departments responding to an underground emergency. Metro has a specially designed emergency evacuation cart for anyone unable to walk from the rail right-of-way.
    Chain link fences block people from trying to cross outdoor Metrorail tracks.

  • If anything hits the fence, causing a break or tilt, an alarm goes off in Central Control and any Metro train in the vicinity automatically stops.

    • In central control

  • Central Control has a computer display showing the precise location of every train in the system.

  • Central Control has a hotline to every police and fire department in the region.

    • Training and procedures

  • Metro conducts occasional mock disaster drills. We also provide intensive training for local fire and police departments on procedures for responding to Metro emergencies.

  • All members of the Metro Transit Police (MTP) and many supervisors, station managers and rail operators are trained in first aid procedures, including CPR and the Heimlich maneuver.

  • On-going safety training is part of the job of every train operator, station manager and operations supervisor in the system.

    • Dealing with panhandlers

  • Panhandling and soliciting of any kind are prohibited on Metro.

  • Donate your money where it can do the most good by supporting local social service programs.

    • Ruin a pickpocket's day
    Pickpockets love crowds. Take precautions to protect your valuables:

  • Use a purse with a secure clasp. Keep the purse close to your body and your hand on the clasp.

  • Carry your wallet inside your coat or side trouser pocket, never in your rear trouser pocket. Also, place a rubber band around your wallet to feel resistance if it is removed from your pocket.

  • Beware of loud arguments or commotions that may be staged to distract you while your pocket is picked.

  • If your pocket is picked, yell out immediately to warn others. Don't be afraid to shout. Tell the train or bus operator, and request the police.

  • Avoid standing near train car doors to lessen your chance of being crowded or bumped by others. If you're jostled in a crowd, a pickpocket may be responsible.

    • Help prevent auto theft
    Every 20 seconds, a car is stolen in the United States. Don't be a victim. To help prevent the theft of your automobile, remember these tips:

  • Park in busy, lighted areas

  • Lock your car and take your key

  • Use an anti-theft device

  • Take valuables with you or lock them in the trunk of your car

  • Use caution if hiding an extra key - thieves know where to find them

  • Keep your driver's license with you, and store the vehicle's registration out of sight. If convenient, take this document with you as well.

  • Have your car key ready as you approach your car

  • Be aware of persons near you, especially at night

    • Posted by La at 12:55 PM | Comments (0)

    WEbring Assigment #16a - Thanksgiving

    Ms. Post No Bills has given us our topic today: Thanksgiving is coming up. What will you be doing? Traveling? What would be your ideal Thanksgiving?

    Well, Thanksgiving is a pretty boring holiday really. I always spend it with Mi Mama, Micah and the various family members that Mi Mama invites. This year Flounder will be joining us. As I mentioned earlier this week, Flounder and I have already celebrated an early Thanksgiving with his side of the family.

    Our family doesn't have any special traditions or stories when it comes to this holiday. A couple years ago I forgot to put the sugar in the pumpkin pie, but that's about it.

    I heard an interesting spot this past Friday on WAMU (88.5 FM). The radio show Metro Connection covered the various Inns in the greater DC region where one can have a full Thanksgiving dinner. A fantastic meal in beautiful suroundings where someone else cleans up? Sounds pretty great to me! Maybe next year.

    For other takes on this topic see:
    Write Again Soon
    Bad Apologies
    A Prize In Every Box
    Post No Bills
    Lugnochro

    Posted by La at 12:27 PM | Comments (0)

    November 14, 2005

    It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like

    With Thanksgiving around the corner, I have my mind on Christmas.
    It started Saturday morning at FMH where our meeting centered around "Holiday Treasures and Triggers", the best and worst this season has to offer. I am happy to say that I weighed in and lost a pound over the past week! It was nice to be headed down again. I also met with a nutritionist and switched to a program that combines food and protein supplements. I think I will have more success with this approach. Anyway...

    After my meeting Flounder and I drove up to PA for Thanksgiving with the Storybook Parents. The SPs will be visiting Jords in WI over turkey day, so we took the early opportunity to get together, eat turkey and play pinochle. It was nice to hang out with the in-laws-to-be. I took the opportunity to quiz everyone on what they might for Christmas this year. Let the schemeing begin!

    Sunday I went out shopping with Mi Mama. We went to a handful of super cute shops in the historic areas of Mt. Airy and Frederick. I also took the opportunity to shop for wedding rings. Very good times. I really enjoyed my time with Mi Mama.

    This week is going to be a full one. Stay tuned!

    Quote of the Day:
    ?The ‘big question’ is whether you are going to be able to say a hearty ‘Yes!’ to your adventure.”

    Joseph Campbell, 1904-1987

    Posted by La at 10:38 AM | Comments (0)

    November 11, 2005

    Why Starucks Will Rule The World

    The clear superiority of the Gingerbread Latte, which is enough to catapult any company into world domination. However, it is their smart, sneaky marketing that makes them really dangerous. I give you, The Red Cup. Starbucks it working to make their red cup synonymous with the holiday season. Ingenious.

    Posted by La at 7:21 AM | Comments (0)

    November 9, 2005

    Biting The Fluffy White Bullet

    It's time to start wedding dress shopping and I am dreading it. For one, I am not the size I wanted to be while shopping. I am smaller than I was 7 months ago, which is very good, but still not small enough to fit in many of the samples that the bridal shops will stock. Secondly, the wedding is only 6 months away and the clock is ticking. Anxiety! Angst! Bridal Nightmare!

    My wildest dream walking into the bridal consignment shop I have been eyeing and finding something right off the rack (pass go! collect $200!) and be done with the whole thing. Pray for me.

    Quote of the Day:
    Seize the moment of excited curiosity on any subject to solve your doubts; for if you let it pass, the desire may never return, and you may remain in ignorance.
    William Wirt (1772 - 1834)

    Posted by La at 11:23 AM | Comments (1)

    November 8, 2005

    WEbring Assigment #15 - All I Want For Christmas

    From Condorman, this week's topic: Everyone share what is on your Christmas list for this year and why, perhaps comparing it with previous holidays, or reminiscing on your favorite gift.

    The older I get, the harder I find making a Christmas List. Not because I want to go without this season, but because the items I want are becoming increasingly expensive and specific. Last year it was an iPod Mini and a food processor. For my birthday I received a new laptop. These are not cheap items. Such is the curse of the middle class. Or maybe it's just me.

    This year I have asked for a new jeweley box, and a few other things. The jewelry box is the only request that stands out in my mind. I have also directed people to the registries I have compiled at a couple stores for our wedding. Several people have poo-pooed the idea of purchasing items from this lists, as if they were sacred and appropriate for wedding related buying only. "Not so!" I say.

    I have repeatedly pointed out beautiful things to Flounder while leafing through catalogs. A suade bag here, a pink paisley pashmina there, I have hinted.

    All that said I know I can expect a mixed bag of goods under the tree this year. The Storybook Family (Flounder's parents) will probably give me a AAA membership. My Dad let's his wife buy the holiday gifts which means, that just like the last few years I will be given something thoughtless and useless. A placeholder gift so there will be something for me to open. Really this situation is only really an issue because Dad only really shows love through gifts and now he has given up that avenue as well. Sad. But what do I expect from Flounder, Mi Mama and others this year? No idea, but I look forward to finding out.

    For other takes on this topic see:
    Write Again Soon
    Bad Apologies
    A Prize In Every Box
    Post No Bills
    Lugnochro

    Posted by La at 10:16 AM | Comments (1)

    November 6, 2005

    Obsessions

    My favorite current obsessions:

    Peacock Blue
    Buying Christmas Presents
    Peach Citrus Fresca (with and without rum)
    The Real World -- Deep Creek Lake

    Posted by La at 12:02 PM | Comments (0)

    November 4, 2005

    Going Public

    I have been off my weight loss program for several months now. I would say the last time I was doing "all the right things" was in July. No wonder I am gaining weight! So what went wrong? That's the tough question at hand. I am not exactly sure. I think more stress entered my life and I wasn't able to handle the new stress without food. I still need to work on that. Its a biggy.

    What I do know is I need to start working at creating a healthy body again. I have not only been off my diet, I have been eating every bad food with in my reach. I have not been working out. The worst part is I know this behavior is taking it's toll on my body. It stops now.

    Tomorrow I am going to weigh in for the first time in at least a month and face the music. I am going to follow the new direction program. I am going to meet with the Dietian about trying a modified program that involves both food and shakes, not just shakes alone. I am start going to the gym at least 2 time a week and work up from there. I will remain accountable by reporting back to a friend who is alson workin the program and by reporting my progress here on my blog.

    There I feel better already. Don't you?

    Posted by La at 4:39 PM | Comments (0)

    Blue Skies Smiling At Me

    What a beautiful day! It is going to be a good one. I can tell. First of all, the saturated blue skies outside automatically make me smile. Secondly, today is Friday, which is always good. Thirdly, last night I had a conference with my prof and found that thanks to my grade on Paper #2 (which I found so difficult to write) I now have a 92 average in the class. Yay for me! This is especially good since I turned in Paper #3 last night and that one is not A material let me tell you.

    I bought my very first Christmas present this week. I love Christmas shopping, though I get fed up with the crowds very quickly. Any thoughts on what I can buy my father this year? I don't think I can give him anymore sports, grilling or movie gear. What the heck is left?

    Sidenote: I want to share one of the funniest things I have seen on the internet in a long time. I give you, Two Chinese Students singing I Want it That Way.

    Quote of the Day:
    A good conscience is a continual Christmas.
    Benjamin Franklin (1706 - 1790)

    Posted by La at 9:09 AM | Comments (0)

    November 3, 2005

    Let's Do A Re-Cap

    Above is a beautiful photo that Ms. WAS took at Deep Creek Lake this weekend. Gorgeous!

    I feel like it's been a bit too long since I have caught my audience up with my comings and goings. What's been going on you ask?

    * I am no longer in any kind of pain from my oral surgery. At this point the biggest hassle come from trying to remember to only chew on the left side of my mouth. No biggy.

    * The car problem that I was convinced was going to be so expensive, wasn't. Yahoo! It turned out to be a $60 problem and not a $400-700 problem. Love it.

    * I had a terrific weekend with friends at Deep Creek Lake (see above.) I got to eat and and read and drink and hang out in the hot tub and act like an idiot, which was exactly what I needed. Oh, how I wish we owned a vacation home in Garrett County MD! I might have to reconsider my "I don't do lakes" stance.

    * In case you haven't noticed, I have ben totally off my diet for the last two months at least. I am very discouraged by this development and feeling pretty crappy about my slip ups. What am I going to do about it? I haven't decided yet, but I will keep you posted.

    * Halloween this year was quiet and very chocolately. Enough said.

    * This weekend Flounder is out of town and I have lots of grand plans (like usual) for home improvement and crafting while he is away. I will not divulge them now, for I fear I have set me expectations to high.

    * I have procrastinated my self into writing a crappy paper for as my 3rd assingment for ENG 101. I just keep chanting in my head "I am learning from this experience, I am learning from this experience..."

    Quote of the Day:
    I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestioned ability of a man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.
    Henry David Thoreau

    Posted by La at 1:59 PM | Comments (0)

    WEbring Assigment #14 - Halloween

    From Ms. Write Again Soon: Describe how you spent this Halloween. Compare/contrast with previous Halloweens.

    This Halloween Flounder and I are handing out candy to our neighborhood kids. I did not dress up at all. Working in a law office, we are discouraged from being to whimsical when it come to our wardrobe.

    I have attended very few Halloween parties through the years, but I have worn LOTS of costumes. Over the years I have dressed up as a Wench, Washing Machine, Miss Piggy, Mime, and an injured Construction worker to name a few.

    One of the these days I would love to attend a flamboyant costume party where there are tons of people and everyone dresses up. I don't see that happening anytime soon though.

    For other takes on this topic see:
    Write Again Soon
    Bad Apologies
    A Prize In Every Box
    Post No Bills
    Lugnochro

    Posted by La at 1:29 PM | Comments (0)