Monday Minute

Good morning, I was visiting my newer and fantastic bloggy friend, Duel Mom, ver at Were at Dad's That Week and I saw she played along with this fun little link. Play too, just click the link to add yourself.

1 - What drugs have you done in your life?
Squeaky clean? Proud to say that this bizarre behavior, and random bullshit babbling is all natural. Besides my daily overdose of coffee, I have never smoked (anything!) and I drink very rarely. Don't get me wrong, I do love to chill out with my favoirte Boones Farm, but it never seems to be often enough!


2 - A/S/L?

31.5 (32 on July 19th!)
Female... and if your wondering how often? Often enough. DH would of coarse love it more, but every few days sometimes everyday, is fine with me.


3 - Do you pick your nose?

Really? Who doesn't? So that is a yes.


4 - What's your favorite childhood cartoon

I was a My Little Pony, Care Bears, and Thunder Cats (I know weird combo right?) oh and I loved Duck Tales, and Gummi Bears too.

Once I was a teenager I was in love with Animaniacs!


5 - List the URL, of what you believe to be the best blog post you've ever done

Maybe not my best work, but one of my favorites, because it really helps you learn a bit about me.

A bunch of giberish. I wanna taco damnit...

Were you considered popular in high school? Why or why not?

I don't think I was popular. But I wasn't outcasted, or made fun of. I went to a public school with about 680 kids per CLASS. So take that times 4 grades we had close to 2800 kids, so you fit into your own group. It was much nicer then gradeschool. I had great friends and still do from gradeschool, but those mean bitches were brutal then.


How old are you in your dreams?
Same as I am now. Never older or younger.


Did you ever run away from home? Why or why not?
Yes once. My dad and I were arguing over something. And he said I should just leave the house. I grabbed my purse and walked out. I didn't make it a block away, and he was there to pick me up in his truck. He was mad that I actually left. I wasn't going far, just to my friend Nerak's house.



If you could invite any five people to your birthday party, who would they be?
So I am wondering if this is any 5 people in the world outside of my family? Let's pretend it is. So that being said my family and friends are there. But if I could invite 5 other people? I would say P!nk (cuz she's a damn rock star. And I think we have the same "whatever" type of attitude), Corey Felman (because I have loved this guy since I first saw him in the Bad News Bears. Still do!) Adam Sandler (because he's funny and seems to be a chill kinda guy) Britney Spears (because I big red heart her music, and yes I know she lip sync's, I've paid to watch her do that twice) SARK (she's an author of amazing inspiring art and creativity)




What birthday has been your favorite so far? What about it made it special?
My 30th. Because I got what I asked for. I made my wish simple and let Spaghetti get creative.

All I asked for was 3 days and 2 nights away with him. I had just had Weaky less then 3 months prior, (and I KNEW months before I had him, that I would need a break after having a 2 year old and a new born)

So Spaghetti did just that. He made it a surprise until I saw we were driving into Chicago, he had us staying at the Hard Rock Hotel on the Michigan Ave, but that wasn't even my surprise. At dinner in my card I opened, and found a job for me.

Yes a job. Spaghetti bought me a one day job at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago! OMG. I was crying my eyes out. I was SO excited. So to sum up the weekend? We walked everywhere, enjoyed, the parks, the Bean, Navy Pier, we even went up to Wrigleyville. It was an awesome weekend, of me and him. I SO needed that.




What one thing are you craving today?
A volcano taco from Taco Bell. (make that two)


What's your least favorite word?
I have a few.
Panties.
Moist.
Doi (as in duh but worse)


Where do you go when you need really good advice?
Honest advice? My mom the Queen, Spaghetti, Aerial, my cousin Bob. My dearest and most honest friend from grade school Maternal Mirth.


If you could participate in any winter Olympic sport, what would it be?
If I was good at it? Ice skating. Cuz I've ALWAYS wanted to skate pretty. But maybe I could make Scrapbooking a sport.




What was your best day of the week last week and why?
Thursday. I went to the Flower and Garden Show at Navy Pier in Chicago with JUST my parents. We started our day early, and ended with a nice dinner at Chili's. I don't get me time with JUST them. Usually my sister, kids, or DH is along too. Not that I don't love them along for the ride, but you get it right?


What's the longest you've ever gone without sleep?
When I gave birth to Bagel. I started at 5 am to check in at the hospital at 6 am (I was being induced) and after a LONG day, I FINALLY was ready to push around 11 pm, but she wasn't born until 1:23 am the next day! By the time I was done with 23 minutes of stitches (the epidural wore off, so I felt EVERY. STITCH. in my nether region) then they were pushing me to feed her, and since I hadn't eaten since 530 am, I was about to kill someone for food, but I was so sick from not eating and the drugs, I just had some sherbert. I think I passed out around 4 am.


Is how old you look and/or how old you feel right now different from your actual age?
Sorta? I look like maybe late 20's, but feel more like late 30's, and act like early 20's (but more responsible them most 20 year olds. But carefree and slightly childish with a punk attitude)

So I'm thinkin' it would be better if I looked like I was in my early 20's, acted like I was in my late 30's and felt like I was in my late 20's it would be better for me!


Got these questions over at Manic Monday's site!

Manic Monday

I love this site, for all she has is questions to answer on Monday's! I don't always keep up, but they are fun when I do. Enjoy my random thoughts provoked by Manic Monday's site...

What was your best day of the week last week and why?

I don't know if I had a best day, but I had some best moments? Like when P!nk preformed at the Grammy's and then recieved a standing ovation! I was SO proud of her for getting all those famous people wet, and dazzling them with her amazing talent at the same time! Go P!nk!

I also enjoyed my Diva Night out with my friends as always. We made projects, visited, and talked Stampin' Up! business.

I enjoyed when we went with my IL's to this fun resturant all train themed, and our food came on a train to our seats!

What's the longest you've ever gone without sleep?

Probably the day I gave birth to Bagel, I was restless of coarse the night before, but we were due to be induced the next morning, I was to check in at 6 am, so that ment be up at 4:45 to get ready and drive to the hospital. I didn't sleep the whole day, and we started pushing around 11 pm, it wasn't until 1:23 am she was born, and I had SO many stiches from tearing (yes it was as horrible as it sounds, and more information for you, the epidural wore off so I felt ALL the 23 minutes of my doctor sewing up between the front and back door down their.) I was told I needed to start feeding her right away (seriously kid?!? Right now!) I do think after all that, and spending a bit of time with her, eating breakfast, calling everyone (yes at wee hours I called. It was the least they could do, was listen to me babble after what I just went through) I asked the nurses to take her to the nursery, and Spaghetti and I passed out around 7 am.

So short answer? 26 hours 15 minutes...

Is how old you look and/or how old you feel right now different from your actual age?



Yes and no. I am 31. I physically feel 31. Too me I am older, out of shape and in need of a care program for myself that includes a better diet, some sort of exercise, and I seriously need to start taking better care of my skin (wash off make up before bed, and use more lotion. I do use sun screen since I am whiter then copy paper)

Mentally to me age is just a number. Sure I'm more mature, I don't feel the need to go out drinking, or dancing ever. I do want the luxury of just hangning out with friends more, but that will wait till the tots are bigger.

I still act silly, run and ride on the back of my grocery cart, with the kids or with out. If I hear music I will just dance, with someone or by myself. I live my live to the motto "Life's too short to be taken seriously. No one get's out alive anyway"



If you could only have one section of the bookstore to visit, which section would it be?

This is a hard one because I am a bookstore whore. I would have to say the magazine section. Sad I know those aren't books, BUT in the store I frequent, the magazines are right by the new releases, so my Dean Koontz, books would be near by, I have all his older ones, so the newer one would be within reach.

Hmmm but then the art/craft books need to be near me too, I love the magazines for the art and craft magazines, so I guess that section could be left out, because I can get all the upcoming ideas with the magazines. I just also need to be within' reach of the Starbucks inside the store...

If you could only subscribe to one publication for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Creating Keepsakes, or Scrapbooks ect. I love them both, well lScrapbooks ect. is by Better Homes & Gardens, so would I get to take advantage of that magazine too? they are good. But I am falling for Creating Keepsakes... and the new one, a bit to pricey for me to subscribe to, at $15 an issue, is Where Woman Create, a look inside different artsy crafty woments art rooms!



What activity always makes you lose track of time?

Blogging. I can lose HOURS blogging, reading, commenting... Growing up, what was your favorite sitcom?


Rosanne. We loved Full House too. But hands down, we were alot like Rosanne, in the fact that my mom was a silly smart ass like Rosanne (still is!) I was a prissy brat like Becky.


What's your idea of a romantic date?

Spaghetti and I in Chicago, no kids, staying at the Hard Rock Hotel on Michigan Ave, drinks in the lobby while famous musicians walk with their entorages near by. Then dinner at a nice resturant. And then off to our room for some quality one on one time. I remember this weekend. It was July 2008, for my 30th birthday. That all happened... sigh... someday...

What are you most afraid to lose?

My family. I know losing our parents will be devistating to both of us, I can only hope it's not for a long time. I have a feeling my sister will out live me, I just feel it. Spaghetti jokes about dying at 70, I plan on living till I'm 106, so I am NOT living 36 years with out him! No way! I hope to live a long happy I also can NOT bear the thought of losing one of my children. I do think that will be the two people that would just cripple me.What is one thing you wish you could change about yourself?


My ability to not sing. I wish I could. I was cast in all 4 musicals in High School, but as the chior section, the only solo I got was for a dancing banana. I didn't not sing. I danced while my friend sang. I would love to be able to sing nice.


Do you believe everything happens for a reason?


Yes. Even the horrible things that happen, the loss of loved ones too. To maybe teach us to value life more? My sister's disorder is the hardest to understand. Maybe we wouldn't be this close, maybe we would be closer. But yes I think it's all for a reason.


What would be your dream job?

To have a store with my mom. We would sell handmade arts and crafts, and even had a room to teach others in. I have dreamed of this place SO many times. I want it to be ecletic, and random, but clean and orderly, to inspire, and be a place of happiness. If it's a old house I dream of a yard where we can have a play area for kids while mom shops. Or if it's in a town, I dream of a courtyard with small garden area to plant in. I wish for this place sooner then later...

Manic Mondays!

I try my bestest to do Manic Mondays, if you can, head on over and do them yourself. Can't ramble on long, I have two napping kids so the Art Room is screaming my name!



If you could bring one character to life from your favorite book, who would it be?
So mine would be a cartoon character. I have LOVED cartoon characters all my life, like most adults that are refusing to grow up, BUT I for the longest time wanted to be one. I SWORE after watching Who Framed Roger Rabbit, that there was just a little ol' tunnel that leads to the land of Cartoons.

So I guess I would pick... you guessed it... (or not) Tinkerbell!!
She's my fav. I loves her. She is Feisty, sassy, and all around a pretty tough chick. She has the BEST outfit, I mean with a little figure like that, who wouldn't want to fly around in a mini green dress?! I would also be the most badass mom ever, because, Bagel LOVES herself some Tink too.

Plus maybe she could tell me where that lil ol' tunnel to the land of Cartoons is...






Which cartoon character do you resemble the most?

Wait for it... Tinkerbell! Short, blonde hair, feisty attitude. Yep, I just need to drop about 30 lbs, and get me some wings and it's a done deal!

Manic Monday

Again I haven't done this in for.ev.er so why not, check out Manic Monday's site yourself, every Monday she has some great questions. These are from the last few weeks. If you click her link, and see this weeks you will probably know why I am not doing this week. Let me know if you play along!


What does it mean to you to have courage?
It means to stand up for what you believe in. I know so many people who say and do things to please those around them. For me it's having the courage to stand up for my decision to not have religion in my life, and NOT feel bad about it. For standing up for gays and not making fun of them when all my straight friends do. And for not pretending to be some one I'm not. I am silly, goofy, and outspoken. That is courage to me.

Is your favorite time the past, present or the future?
I guess all of them. I love to hear about the past, I wish I would have cared about History in school, how everyone coped with out all the crap and technology we have now. I am trying to enjoy the present in hope of making a past I can be proud of. And I am always looking towards a future with my family and friends.


What makes you a good person?
Going along with the first question, I think the fact that I stand for the things I believe in. I won't jump in with you and joke at things I don't understand. I don't pretend to know it all about people, but I don't like to judge them because of there skin color, or their job, or what sex they prefer. That is what I think makes me a good person. I try not to judge.


How do you define honesty?
Being real with someone. If you disagree with me, or see things differently, tell me. I don't want me and my friends to see everything the same. It's great to get other opinions.

What is the main thing that makes you unique?
I would think that if you asked Spaghetti this question about me, he would say I am unconventional. I play by the rules as long as I want, until I need to do my own thing.


What is your biggest fear or worry?
Spaghetti and I agree on this one. We fear losing our family. Our children, each other, our parents or my sister. I would toss Aerial in that too, she is just as close as my sister to me. I think we are afraid of how it would break us, and how to be strong after a loss like that. I do think that is why Uncle T's sickness (yes he is still with us) is so hard for us. To watch a family that we hold so close go through what we fear most.


Let me know if you play along with Manic Monday too!!

Again with my Manic Monday! But it really is Monday, so I might as well be caught up! Check out the link above to do your own Manic Monday!

Are you usually late, early or right on time?

Interesting question, after I just did this post...

What would be harder for you, to tell someone you love them or to tell them that you do not love them back?

Tell someone that I do not love them back! I find it easy to tell people that I love them, or my feelings for them. I have found out in life that those you love may be taken away from you at a moments notice. Tell them now how you feel. But if I don't love you back? I would still tell the person, so they weren't wasting there time, or being mislead.

Which would you rather have: a high salary or job satisfaction?

Well of coarse with today's economy I would make a high salary job a satisfactory one. Unless it was one of those we pay you for 40 but you really work 60 types of jobs then no. I really need to be happy where I am. I know happy doesn't pay the bills, but in the end that is what counts right? So I think I jut contradicted myself... I want a happy high salary job, just like the rest of the world!!

Manic Monday! Rainbows, Muffin Tops and the secret to life!

It's been a while, but follow the above link to visit Manic Monday's site, and play along yourself! There are usually only 3 questions a week, BUT I haven't done this in forever. So lots o' Q & A for you to enjoy.

What is the first thing you notice about people?

Eyes. I know cheesy right? But it's more then pretty eyes. (don't get me wrong, some people have those eyes you just get lost in) You can really read someone by their eyes. If they are happy, sad, stressed. Sometimes you just have to take the time to notice.

I noticed early on when I met Spaghetti that he had lines by his eyes, at just 23 he had laugh lines. That told me alot about him right there. And I was right, he loves to laugh and smile.

What song always makes you happy when you hear it?

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" that is Bagel's song. I just love it.

What fashion trend do you just not get?

Alright I am hip, and trendy most of the time, I love me some hip hop music BUT I do not and will not ever understand this trend...

Now I for one would be SUPER worried that my underwear weren't clean. I mean one streak and your a fashion nightmare! Not to mention now my underwear would have to match my outfit. Plus I think a thong would be out of the question, huh?

But it would take notice off my muffin top, OH that is a trend I DO not get AT ALL!
Please tell me where this is hot? I spend all my energy attempting to hid this, and there are women who showcase it?!? Gag!

Would you rather go a week without bathing, but be able to change your clothes, or a week without a change of clothes, but be able to bathe?

This is honestly the easiest question. I would bathe and never change my clothes! Hence my hate for laundry!

If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose?
Big Brother. And I thought about it. I would love to be on reality t.v., I think it would be a great show to be on. Unless I could be on some show like the hills where I was a spoiled brat with to much money and my social life was all I needed to worry about, that would be fun.

What is one thing that you would change about yourself if you could?

Right now? My weight, that was easy! I would instantly suck about 30 pounds off me! Wala skinny me!

Name three exotic countries you would like to visit:

Ireland! That is where Spaghetti's Great Grandparents were from, and his cousin Maggie still lives there. I would love to take the kids someday.

And of coarse Italy. That is where my Grandfathers parents are from.


And I was tired of Googling for pictures, so Australia is my 3rd country of choice. I love their accents, and I would love to see how things are down under!

What do you think the secret to life is?

Be.

That's it. Just be. I mean try to be happy, be simple, be yourself, be funny, be creative, be social, be helpful, be kind, be giving, be... you get the point?

If we would all just Be. Try not so hard to be something we're not. I think peoples lives would go along alot less stressful.

Manic Monday. Alarm clocks, pillow and swearing

Name two things you consider yourself to be very good at:
Driving and Directions is one.
Making good use of my camera.

Name two things you consider yourself to be bad at:
Swearing.
Laundry.

Name one thing not many people know about you:
Before kids, I loved to play SIMS, Rollercoaster and Zoo Tycoon, Myst, Riven, Uru, and the Neverhood computer games. Then for Playstation I loved my Crazy Taxi, or Crash Bandicoot! Ah, the days of nothing to do!!

What is the longest love relationship (partner) you have had, and if it has ended, why?
This one! 10 years strong!! Spaghetti and I starting dating on May 29th 1999, engaged on October 29th 1999, and got married on June 16th 2001!

What is on your bedside table?
Lamp. Alarm clock. And my water bottle each night.

How many pillows do you have on your bed?
6. 3 for me, and 3 for Spaghetti.
Do you make your bed every day?
No. But I am trying to get into the habit.

Manic Mondays. Vanilla, Super Why, and Jon & Kate...

It's been a while, so why not take t he last 3 Mondays in June to do some Manic Monday's...


Do you usually wear perfume/cologne? If so, what's your current favorite?
Yes I do. I love Happy or Happy Heart by Clinique, but my everyday is Vanilla Vanilla by Body Shop


What's the last book you've read that you thought was really good? If you don't have one, what looks promising on your to-be-read list?
Breaking Dawn, and with that you can include, Twilight, New Moon, and Eclipse! LOVE them!


Fill in the blank: I wouldn't be caught dead _________.
Pretending to be some one else, just to fit in. I did that once. I realized that you either love me or hate me.

What is the last song that was stuck in your head and how did you get rid of it?
Super Why! Theme song. Still there. Even though Bagel is to young for all the reading, and letters, she still loves the show. It's cute. But I love Word World better.

If you had to say what one thing in your life best represents your freedom, what would it be?
My ability to be a SAHM. I mean sure from my side it's more like prison on days. But that is because I am jealous of all the parents who can drop their kids off at day care, and go stare at a computer for hours, while someone else wipes butts, and deals with ENDLESS whining. But on the other hand I get to be the one to see all the firsts, and what job lets you drink coffee, with your kids while hanging out in the pool? All day?


If you were invited to the White House for dinner tonight, what would you wear from your current wardrobe?
Probably my black $12 strapless Target dress. It goes past my knees, and is very nice. My other two dresses are more Marilyn Monroe-ish. Yah know, tie around the neck, and the clevage-a-showin. Not so White House-ish.

If you joined the circus, what act would you most want to perform?
Barker. Yep. I thought about it. I would like to sell tickets, and yell at people. Fun.

Would you generally be overdressed or underdressed at a party?
Over dressed. Even though I am more casual of a person, Spaghetti and I still dress up more for an event when we don't realize how chillax it will be.


Do you feel that children should be sheltered from unhappiness?
This is interesting. Since I JUST finished watching Jon & Kate plus 8, and it was the "separation" announcement.
I think the children should see as little arguing as possible. I think that you shouldn't pretend to like someone if you don't.
Like today Spaghetti and I just DID not get along. So we don't scream and fight, we just do our thing with the kids, kinda around each other. So no, I don't want to shelter them, because fighting happens, it's real life. But at 3 and 1 they don't need a full dose of reality. Not just yet.


What's something that people do in traffic that really annoys you?
Just one something? Because there is SO many.

Let's discuss traffic. I am a 3rd lane user. The FAR LEFT lane to be exact.

If the speed limit is 65 I will drive approx 73-75 mph. If you FLY up my ass I will NOT move over fast for you. If you are approaching me, and I can get over I will.

Please DO NOT drive in my lane if you are choosing to drive UNDER 70. It makes NO sense. MOVE. OVER.

I am aggressive. IF I need to get over, lets say to turn, and it's a busy day, and I put on my blinker and start moving in. I WILL GET IN. It is not a question. It is what I am doing. MOVE.

Oh and the best one. Merging.

I have always been good about merging early. And by my house the road goes from 4 lanes to 2 lanes. I am in the lane prior to the light. So when we go through the light, I am already where I need to be.

DO NOT. DO NOT attempt to pass me. Sure if your in a mustang and there is NO one in front of me, odds are pretty good that you can pass me. Go to town.

BUT if we are all in a line. And you and your snotty nose Escalade, attempt to do the above "blinker on and move over" move. You can bet your ass, you are NOT getting in. AT ALL.

Yep, you just gave me the finger. And yep, I know you live in McSnobly Subdivision right before mine.



Well now I feel better. Thanks.

Manic Monday on Wednesday. My social life, as a cancer/leo pirate, and all I want to be is Tinkerbell damn it.

Do you recycle? Why or why not?
Yes and no. Yes if I remember to take the cans and boxes, or plastic bottles and put them in the BIG recycle bin we have. But the no part is because we should have a box for papers by the desk upstairs, and I SO should have a box for paper scraps in my art room!


Would you rather be a pirate or a prince/princess?
Pirate. I am rough and tough. Don't take shit off nobody, and I am not very lady like. I would steal if need be. I would kill for survival. I just think the whole motion sick thing on the boat would make me a land pirate.

Being a princess would be nice, for the money, but the whole requirements to be nice to other people, even if they suck would be no fun. Plus isn't there a requirement to marry royalty? Ugg.

Arrrrr, Me's name is Jack the Pirate. I kick ass, and talk shit. I be one of those pixie little pirates. Speaking of Pixies... maybe instead of a pirate, since we are on the whole make believe thing. Maybe I could just be a Tinker Fairy. Ah, Tinkerbell is my favorite...


Are you into astrology? If yes, how does it affect your life?
Yes? Sure I am a Cancer, my kids are Taurus, and Gemini, and Spaghetti is a Aquarius. My parents are Libra's. I know that I am a Cancer with Leo tendencies, since my birthday falls at the end of my sign.

Do I rotate my life around it? Do I avoid those that I don't mesh with according to the stars? Nah. I do however think it's amazing how these things can peg you though. Since I am not religious I am up for fun astrology. But it doesn't decide if I am leaving the house or not that day.


How often do you change your toothbrush?
Every few months. I think your supposed to do it every 3 months?


What is your favorite item of clothing to shop for?
Hats? Is that clothing, or an accessory? Well I still say hats. I just got a really cute hat in Tennessee. Love it! Brown and pink, with some funky design on it. Looks like the old Irish boy hats, but smaller and girly.

Pants suck to buy. My ass is huge, and my waist is small, so when I squat my whole ass falls out the back. And the belt idea blows too. Then you have a ton of jean cinched together. HELLO uncomfortable!

Shirts are ok, we don't have the money for me to shop, so I don't really enjoy it. I get stressed buying one $12 shirt at Target, every 6 months.


Do you use social media (Twitter, MySpace, Facebook, etc.)? Which do you use most often?
I used to use MySpace, it was ok, but since I could find SO many friends it was great.

I had Facebook too. But I hated the plain page, and it was boooring.

Maternal Mirth got me hooked on Twitter, and I loved it. Sorry I am not there much.

Funny thing is, it seemed like overnight, Facebook took over the world! I love it. I keep it up most of the day, stopping by to update my status whenever I pass the computer. I love seeing everyone update, and the comments to go with.

That is why Twitter is ehh, I like it, but it's kinda a one way conversation. And I have my status on Facebook.

MySpace is a thing of the past. I SO don't check it, maybe once a month? I still need to find some friends from there on Facebook, sure Facebook isn't so fancy, but instead of wasting my time with new layouts, or widgets, I am just in change my status, read my friends status' and make a few comments and I am out! Fun!! Plus the LivingSocial things are addicting enough on there!


If you enjoyed these questions, go to the above link and check out Manic Monday every Monday. I know, I know, it's Wednesday...

Manic Mondays on Wednesday

Visit the Manic Monday site, every Monday she posts questions to stir your bloggy mind. It's been a few Mondays, and since I should be packing for our trip to Nashville (more later) I will do what I do best. Procrastinate!! Enjoy!

Do you enjoy brain teasers or do you find them frustrating?

I enjoy them. I have some fun games that involve puzzles, my favorite is the square with the numbers 1-12 in little squares that move around. I kick ass at that.

Do you have any unusual collections?

Of coarse I do! I followed after my mom and collected Archie comic books until a bit after I was married. I have over 200 of them.

I also collected Cherished Teddies. I started after I saw that my best friend in H.S. had a collection and we went shopping together. I was reading the names on the bottom of them. And came across the bear above. Her name was my name. But I NEVER see my name spelled the way I spell it on a collectors item. I had to have her.

Since then I have collected about 15 other bears. I am specific that I don't want all 500 that they have made. But I want the ones to go with my life. I have the Italian Bear, the Wedding bear (mom and daughter) the pregnant bear is my newest.

I also have a collection started of a copy of each of the Stampin' Up! catalogs. I have about 8 years worth. I would love to have older ones.


I used to collect Garfield things. I have everything from pencils, and note pads. But I am in the process of dwindling it down.


I also collect Shel Silverstein books, Dean Koontz books, and Sark books.


I am a bit of a note book junkie. Thank god for the blog, I have stopped collecting Journals that I don't use!


What do people notice about you within the first hour of meeting you (other than appearance)?
I am more feisty, I am off the wall. I am very unconventional. I like to talk, and get to know everyone.


Do you screen your phone calls?
Doesn't everyone? That is what caller i.d. is for, right?


When was the last time you lost your temper?


Today. My mom was on the phone and said they would not be keeping the dogs for the whole week we will be gone in Nashville. Because it would be to big of a deal. I tried so hard to control my anger, but then right when I got pissed and told her I wished they hadn't said anything to me about it. She said "April fools"... wanker. She got me again.


When you're lost, do you ask for directions?
Yep. I am very good about direction. And where I am going. But if I am lost I am lost. And I hate to waste time trying to just go another way. I will stop, ask directions, and go on my way!

Manic Monday on Thursday

Of all your favorite foods, which one would you find the most difficult to give up for the rest of your life?
Apple Sauce. Ok, this one goes WAY back, and if you know me, I mean WAAAY back. When I was just a wee little kid. For lunch on a warm summer day I would often eat, cottage cheese with apple sauce. (don't make that face. Some wiz kid just made his millions making cottage cheese and peaches in one container! Same thing) So I loved it. I also started to request apple sauce for every meal. I put it on everything.

First it was the foods I didn't like so much. Let me tell you apple sauce doesn't really mask the taste, just blurs it a bit. And it cools things down too. Bagel does it now. I hope she loves apple sauce as much as I do!


Which month of the year do you thing best describes your personality?
July!

It's the month I was born in, it's hot, feisty and will give you one good time. Well maybe that was me 10 years ago. Now I am just hot headed, feisty and am pretty self amused, so you watch and tell me how entertaining I am.


If you could be a contestant on any game show, past or present, which show would you pick?
If we are counting reality t.v. as a game show. We should all know this one... Big Brother. I have the next season's app. sitting right here, filled out, I just need someone to come on over with a video camera and tape my 2 minutes and send it in.

Manic Monday. Vick's, Rainbows, and to much talk

What do you do to make yourself feel better when you are sick?
Vick's baby bath.
Vick's under my nose.
Sleep. Alot.
Double noodle soup.
Watch Little Nicky (it's my "I'm sick movie") with Adam Sandler
Have my Wish Bear care bear Ed got me.

What is the most amazing weather you've ever seen?
I see crazy weather here often. A few times, I have seen it where it rains in my front yard and not my back yard. Or where I have stood just about to the steps of my deck by the grass, and it's raining in the grass, but not on the deck.

I have seen more rainbows here in this house then I have ever seen.

The snow is crazy. With all the cornfields there are drifts, from the crazy winds we get. So a 4" snow fall, could be a 3' pile when it's done blowing. Don't even get me started on I-80! That highway is insane with the snow!

I live in Chicagoland. Where as they say, if you don't like the weather, wait a few hours. It will change. No joke. I have had many days where we will use the heat, then the air, then the heat again in July!

Do you listen to music or talk radio in the car?
I HATE talk radio in the car. (Some sports games are tolerable. Some.) I love the radio, music makes me happy. I don't mind some morning shows, mostly Drex from Kiss FM, if anyone is keeping track, looks like Eddie and Jobo from B96 got canned. Again.

I loathe commercials. I can't stand them!! I don't even like when the D.J.'s talk over the begining of the song, STFU!!

Manic Monday on Wednesday

If you were to name the most creative outlet that you have, what would it be?
This one is kinda easy, my beloved Art Room. The coolest room, all for me. Well I share it with my two little people. Spaghetti fears it. And I also share it with my fellow Creative Maniacs that come and attend my classes. LOVE IT!

What spot in your body would you say is the center of your emotional being?
So I had to think about this one.
Kinda weird. But after thinking it out, I would have to say my eyes.

Not my heart, not my head. But to me I talk to much. And that equals alot of stories, random thoughts, blah, blah, blah's... but if you look at my eyes, you can read my mood, my day and my story.

I have faked being friendly, and if you know how to look into peoples eyes and see what they are truly saying. It says alot.

What do you think is the secret to a tranquil soul?
"Do what makes you happy." I know with jobs, kids, vacations, I have to sacrifice alot. But I always make sure that I am happy. Sound greedy, but if you all want to have a good time, I had better be happy.

"There is only one of you." I learned this working in the casino's. When you have a ton of pissed up, broke ass people barking at you to hurry up, so they can dump more into the machines. It's overwhelming, and especially since I was only 19 when I started the business.
I was told take them one at a time. Pretend that they are the only one's there. Deal with them. Move on. If I see a cashier getting overwhelmed by a long line. I go up to them, and say, "There is only one of you, take them one at a time, you will be fine"

"Me Time" no seriously, the Crop nights, and weekends I take once a month, are the big get aways. My little day to day get aways? The art room with or with out the kids, a bath at night, a quick stop inside Starbucks for a drink and a flip through a magazine (the key there is to go inside. I do this when I am running errands. Maybe a quick 15 minutes is what I need) I take "me time" often, I have to.

"Never Grow Up" seriously. The people I hated most in school where the ones that were WAY older then they really were. I didn't care if you thought I was a dork for playing barbies till I was 13, I didn't care if my now husband saw my tent bed (yes I was 19) It made me happy and it was my room damn it. People grow up, and they suck. looking down on kids for being silly, or just enjoying life. Shit, adulthood is crap, and we have to spend WAY to much of our life in it, so enjoy the childhood as long as you can. I still refuse to grow up.

"Wear fun socks" this can pertain to any clothing you love. I personally will have a cute matchy matchy outfit, and bust out these striped toe socks. Why? Cuz it's fun, because my life is to short to wear serious socks. Maybe you do it with shoes, or purses, or coats. Whatever your thing is. Own it.

"Own it" not only with your fun socks. But everything you do. I really enjoy me. I enjoy the silly me, the serious me. Everything I do I "own it" It's all about being proud of being you. I walk in a room of pretty women, sure I am short, fat and have crazy hair. But I "own it" It's me, and if I don't own it, if I don't work what I have, if I don't have my head up, and shoulders back, then I am not owning me.

I have to say the first verse of Britney Spear's "Circus" is SO me...

There's only two types of people in the world
The ones that entertain, and the ones that observe
Well baby I'm a put-on-a-show kinda girl
Don't like the backseat, gotta be first
I'm like the ringleader I call the shots
I'm like a firecracker I make it hot

And well that is what makes for my tranquil soul.

Hope you enjoyed my Manic Monday on Wednesday!!

Manic Monday on Saturday

What is the biggest mistake you made in 2008 and will not make again in 2009?
I had a blog. I started it in February of 2007. It had to go into hiding. There was to much angry comments made by me, about family. Resulting in me STILL getting subscriptions in my name to magazines, books sent to my door, and more brochures on travel then one could want. I did find out the person. It's my cousins dirty baby mama (not married, but they continue to accidentally breed) she hates his family and chooses to start drama. Nasty.

Since then I closed my old blog, and started up Spaghetti and Bagels. Hence all the nicknames for everyone. AND very few people read my blog that know me personally. Just Queen, Carrots, Frances, Aerial, Iowa, Maternal Mirth, All that Drama, and D. Mudd Pimp. I think a few others, Penguin, and Spaghetti at times.

I just really enjoy the random friends I have made here in the blog world, and would rather know what you have to say.

Do you make New Year's resolutions? Why or why not?
Sure do. I think it's good to make some goals in life. Not saying I will stick to them, but some sort of attempt is there.

Who do you nominate as “Man or Woman of the Year” for 2008?
Man of the year? Shocker. Obama.

Why? Well same reasons why this mama is for Obama, I truly think we can change this Nation. I know it won't happen over night, or in 4 years. He's got a lot of mess to clean up. I think he was amazing in all his speeches, and am proud that in just two weeks he will be the next President of the US!
What was your greatest accomplishment in 2008?
Birth of Weaky Spike Mc on April 25th at 4:06 pm.

That and being able to keep my sanity with two kids, two big dogs, two pissing cats, and a whole house to myself. Since Spaghetti works Nights full time, days partime, and sleeps inbetween, every baby shift, dog barf, cat piss, and dirty butt, are all on my shift. (98% of the time) he is very hands on when he can, but most of it's for me.

I give myself a big pat on the back, and even though there is clutter everywhere, and laundry out the ying yang, I am still working twards a better home.

Manic Monday. 89 mph Lobsters on the Sears Tower

What is the most expensive meal you've ever eaten?
Probably when I ordered Lobster and Fillet, and the sad part was, the lobster wasn't really that good.

What is the fastest speed you've ever traveled in a car?
89. I have little to say about the rest of the story. You just get a number.

What is the highest building you've ever been to the top floor of?
Top of the Sears Tower in Chicago. A few times.

Those were quick and painless. Usually my Manic Monday's are long and extensive amounts of information you may or may not have wanted. Oh well! Enjoy!

Manic Monday. Conversation with myself about stress, direction, reading minds, and folding boxes.

Do you ever talk to yourself out loud? What do you talk about?
Are you serious? ALL THE TIME. Funny thing is I am such a talker, that I notice that people shut me out. No really I have come to terms with the fact that maybe I might just talk a bit to much. I do try to limit myself. But yes I have tested all my friends and family. Yes you too. Where I talk, telling a story, then mid sentence I will stop. Sad to say, many times, no one notices.

But around the house, sure I talk to myself. I argue with myself, I question myself, I answer myself. Even when I am out in public. Scrapbooking? Of coarse I talk to myself. Sometimes out loud is the only way I can really remember, or figure something out.

Not ashamed one bit.

What stresses you out?
Dong barking when we all sit and eat.
I can go from zero stress to complete psycho in seconds over that.

Bagel whining.
Gah! I don't understand whine. And I learned that from Chandler, years ago, I was on the phone with her, and her son was whining, she told him she didn't understand whining, he needed to talk. A.maz.ing. I use it all the time. She will whine a few more times, and of coarse I understand her. But I will NOT tolerate whining. Gag!

Money.
Right, like who doesn't? Bills, mortgage, taxes, Christmas, thank god we can all breathe for a minute on the gas prices. I mean seriously... $4 something over the summer and now $1.73?!? WTF??

Outside of that I really don't let much else stress me. I mean I have douche bag family members, bitchy customers, and it just doesn't pay for me to stress over these tards. I live my life. I worry about my parents, and in laws, my sister, my kids, and Spaghetti, my pets. Outside of that I do have concern for my friends and there issues, but to stress on it? Sorry I try to keep my life as drama free and happy as I can. So stressing on little shit just ain't worth it.

What are your secret talents?
Direction. No really, I am good at it. I rarely get lost, even in a new area. It's all about landmarks, and focusing on your direction.

I can fold those stupid cardboard storage boxes, in seconds. I don't read the directions. It just is natural to me the way they go. Maybe it's all the paper crafting I do.

This one is weird. Even for me. I can kinda see ahead of what someone is going to talk about or do. Maybe it's just that I am really observant. Not saying I see the future, I am just saying if we are just talking I can see where the conversation is going. Or if you say just one word I can usually guess right where your going. Which I tend to cut someone off and say it for them. Probably annoying, since I am not always right on this but 8 times out of 10 I am.

It might not make sense. But I guess it does to me. I really try to observe everyone in a situation, especially the quiet ones. I observer there clothes, there jewelry, there voice, there actions. It all reads who you are. Even your hair.

I mean take for example if you wear a mohawk with a "cute but psycho" shirt, with jeans and flats. Basic silver jewelry, some interesting pieces, and make-up. Talks alot, very smiley, doesn't seem to give a shit attitude, funny but sweet.

Yes that is me. So lets read me... mohawk = different, and rebellious. Happy bunny shirt = sassy, and wants you to know her. Jeans and flats = likes it simple, and comfy. Basic jewelry some different = possible family heirlooms, pretty jewelry but simple. Make-up = possibly hiding something. (sure am. I was never comfortable with out makeup on. I am better at it. But I really like it on. I feel plain with out it.)
Talking alot, smiley, sassy attitude, funny but sweet= me. And I try to portray that to most people I talk to, even in small conversations.

So that is what I do. I read people, fast sometimes if that is all we have. Not judging, but I just try to read them. Wonder what kind of day they are having, what they do for fun. Might seem retarded to you. But to me I get to know people or try to, I make conversation on what I observe. Well... that's just me.

Manic Monday

Do you believe people are basically good?
Depends on there situation. If you want a yes or a no. Yes, I believe people are basically good. And in my years of experience with asshole relatives, I have to say they are good to those they love, and even the meanest of people, that live alone, probably have there little dog, or bird that is the light of there life.

So I am sure 99.9% of people are basically good. But there is always the total psycho that is evil. Ya know, the serial killers, and what nots.

If you could change the custom of shaking hands, what would you replace it with?
Well I do shake hands when I meet people, but depending on the situation, I like to hug. Not everyone, but I am a hugger!

What is something that you enjoy that is a chore for most other people?
Dishes. Kinda weird. Since my dishes usually pile up around the counter, but it's just I am lazy and it takes me some time to get to them. But once I do. I am pretty content, plus I have a nice kitchen window right over my sink, so I just watch what's going on outside, wash my dishes and I also enjoy the hot water.

Manic Monday. Fast traveling, lemon hair.

What was the first thing you thought when you looked at yourself in the mirror today?

Not bad. I've had this hair cut for 3 months now and I still love it. Good thing. Wonder when I will dye it again...

Do you have a recurring nightmare? If so, explain.

Not so much of a nightmare, but I always dream of traveling. Fast, usually I just make the train, plane, car. It's usually night time. And I always travel with Spaghetti, and we are almost always going to visit our parents. The kids are never with us.

List three foods you can’t stand:

Lemons.

Ate Lemon pie one time in H.S. got the flu. barfed Lemon pie for days. Lemon just ain't the same since.

Tomatoes.

Just tomatoes. I love ketchup, and salsa but not just tomatoes.

Broccoli.

Spaghetti eats it all the time. Gag. I make it all the time for him. After years I am finally not gagging as much over the smell.

Manic Monday. I can hear the t.v. going down the drain!

How many hours of TV do you watch per week? Do you feel that's too much, not enough or just right?
Are we counting the 12 hours a day I am devoted to the Sprout Channel? Or the endless Tigger Pooh and or Mickey's Clubhouse episodes I log each day? Oh you mean the grown up t.v. shows?

Well then lets do some math...

Survivor = 1 hour
Grey's = 1 hour
Amazing Race = 1 hour (Extreme Home Makeover is on at the same time, I flip channels so that is a shared hour)
The Island just ended on MTV, but I am sure Real World will be starting soon = 1 hour
My new favorites = Paris Hilton my new BFF, and Rock of Love Charm School, = 1 hour each, total 2 hours.

So a regular week is about 6 hours of adult t.v. time. I do watch the new release movies, Spaghetti gets video store perks, and we get them 4 days in advance fo free! So tack another 2 hours on. I would rather be blogging, reading or doing art then watching t.v.

Which of the 5 senses do you feel is your strongest sense?
I am legally blind. I can't smell much, (possibly due to the fact that I would walk around with mothballs up my nose as a kid, I am also obsessed with Vicks) my sense of taste is pretty bland, since my diet consists of pasta, cheese and eggs.

I guess my sense of touch is fine, but I do have some keen hearing. My mom too. We tend to pick up on conversations in other rooms, or when people whisper.

What's the wackiest belief you held as a child?
That if I sat next to the tub drain I would get sucked down. Even if the plug was there. The drain monster would lift it up and suck me down. So when Frances and I would take baths, I would make her sit by the drain. I know, nice sister. But if she would get sucked down, I would have a heads up to get my ass out of the tub. Sorry!