Wow... I got this palm reading link from Cindy. Hmmm...kinda spooky! You have a good imagination, and often exhibit sensitivity to others. The general flexibility of your character is a useful attribute. At certain times in your life, you may have romantic conflicts and difficulty maintaining friendships. You will overcome these problems after a little introspection. There may be times in your life when you give in to feelings of sadness or depression. At certain times in your life, you may have romantic conflicts and difficulty maintaining friendships. These problems are not likely to last long. You have a basically strong constitution, and should enjoy good health most of the time. You are likely to make many changes in the direction of your life. This may be based on interruptions due to health problems, or it may be that you just have trouble focusing your energy. There is a strong intuitive side to your nature, which may border on psychic or mystical ability.

Ahhh, my weekend has arrived. Whew, what a week. I feel so much better than I did this morning. I didn't get everything done that I wanted to today, but ya know what? At this point I could care less. It will just have to wait until next week. I got the high priority stuff done, so that's all that really matters. I'm sure next week will be a better week and my head will be clearer. I plan on getting a lot of rest this weekend. I wore some light blue and white pin striped jeans to work today (it was my "Friday" after all). Then one guy came in and pointed out that both he and my boss Tim both had light blue pin striped shirts on. We all matched! Too funny! Hmmm... well, I guess you had to be there. I wish I had my camera with me! LOL!! Yeah, OK... I'm brain fried...

Yesterday I was a complete stress monster. I don't know what my problem was, but it was so not a good day and not a good day to be around me. I was so stressed about stuff here at work, and everything I guess. Chalk it up to one hell of a bad day. I finally took a half of a Xanax to calm down so I could concentrate enough to get some work done. I didn't even feel up to blogging, not that I had time anyway. By the end of the day, I'd made myself sick. I have to stop doing that to myself. Its just not worth it. I went straight home, and went to bed. My Harry Potter DVD *finally* arrived from Amazon (the first one got lost) so I put that in and watched it, and kept falling asleep. I was just utterly exhausted. I'm feeling a bit more perkier today, but still not feeling back to my old self... I shall keep my chin up though and keep plugging along. I hate feeling ornery, its a waste of my time. I need to concentrate on the good things that are coming my way like next weekend with Jeff (ha, cha, cha), then off to Boston to see Colin and his wife D. OK. Postitive thinking starts again right here, right now. I'll be around to visit everyone in the next day or so... I've been so busy I haven't been able to visit anyone. Have a great day everyone!!!! 3 for Thursday questions are up if you'd like to go play. I wanted to thank Colin for taking care of it all this week :-).

Just a quicky post before I start another crazy day! Its gonna be nuts again. Oh well... I'm taking one thing at a time. I'm feeling a bit funky today but otherwise OK. I think I'm just tired. Last night as I was about a block from home, I saw my parents car coming in the other direction. We stopped in the middle of the road (yes, I cuss at people who do that but there was no one else on the road tee hee) to see where they were going. There was a passenger in the back seat, my Aunt Lou Jean! She'd come from Idaho and was on her way to Salt Lake to stay with her daughter, and they were on their way to get some dinner. They invited me, so I swung my car around and followed them to the local family drive in and had a ham sandwich. Lou Jean and I noticed a guy and his family sitting in another booth. This is so awful, but we couldn't help but laugh. This guy was heavy, and his pants were half way down his ass, and his shirt wasn't covering anything. Full Moon at Kirt's Drive Family Drive-in! His underwear were even half way down so we did see actual ass crack. My Mom kept saying "OK, you two..." Its so sad though, I wonder if he was even aware of it. Then Lou Jean said something about his moon being an "appetizer" and I started giggling and said "No, its more of an appetite killer. Maybe we should start calling this the Full Moon Diet." My Dad started laughing at that one. We went home, and Lou Jean drove to Salt Lake. When I got home, my sis Susie was there to see Kathy for her b-day. I didn't say anything to Kathy (she was outside smoking when I got home) and as I was getting out of my car she actually thanked me for the card and gift certificate. Shocker. OH! I've found a new CD that's really good. Audioslave! Its got the song "Like a Stone" on it. I can't stop listening to it, its good to do financials by, gets me rocking. I best get to work now! Have a great day everyone! *hugs*

Its good to be back to in my own office after two weeks... oh, did I just say that?! LOL! I must be nuts. Anyway, its been a crazy day. I have soooo much to do with my financials. Its going to be a bugger of a month due to a lot of changes that had to be made to labor rates since the first of January. I've got a 300 page report I have to go through to log each correction. Fun, huh? I started the day off by getting settled back in, then I had to run to my doctor appt for my first treatment of Remacade. I was there about 3 hours, as they warned me. I took my laptop computer with me and worked for a couple of the hours, and then just read the rest of the time. So far, so good. I should notice some improvement quickly, as most people do. I ran a couple of errands for work on the way back to the office, then dug back into my financials. I'm now brain dead and its about time to go home so I'm taking a break. I've just got to laugh at Greg... he's the dork that expected me to make travel arrangements for him while I was in Boston. Well, he never had Cindy make them for him until... get this... today. The DAY I'm back in the office! This man blows my mind - completely. I even spoke to him at the conference last week to make sure he was having Cindy do them for him. He said, "Oh yeah, I'll send her an e-mail." *knocking on his head* Helloooo... anyone in there?! I also go an e-mail this morning from a lady in corporate accounts payable needing some "original receipts" for his expense report that he submitted while I was gone (he can't follow instructions either). I looked at my copy of the expense report and sure enough, there were the originals. So, he's screwed himself out of a week's time of getting reimbursed. Its a good thing I don't travel much or the poor guy would be at a complete loss, I think! ;-) Hmmm... well, I guess that's about it about my day. I'm so glad its almost over!! Its going to be a looooong week though. UGH! Have a great night everyone!

I wanted to wish my two great friends Pete and Emma a very Happy 1st Wedding Anniversary!! It was one year today that they got married, and I had the honor of being with them (in ENGLAND baby!).

I need to babble for a minute... I'm just so excited right now I could burst. I've been planning something for the past couple of months, that will take place on my way out to Boston on May 16. I haven't written about it, because I really didn't want to jinx it and have been almost scared that it wouldn't really happen. Some of you who have read my blog for a while, know the history of Jeff and I. Jeff and I have talked on line for 2.5 years, he living in Indiana, me in Utah. I was totally crazy about him, and he broke my heart last fall. We kept in contact, staying friends. Well, things have worked out that we are finally going to meet. This was totally his idea, wanting to meet this time, and with me flying out to Boston for work, I was able to swing a good airfare and save the company money by stopping off in Indiana, so the trip is pretty much paid for. We were talking this morning and he said that he's so excited to meet me and to have me come out. He's not backing out this time. I think he's finally letting some of his past baggage go and is really ready for this. I'm keeping this all in perspective though. I have to. I don't want my heart broken again. As much as I want to fly out there, meet him and fall madly in love and live happily ever after... I know that may not happen, despite me being a HUGE hopeless romantic. This trip is to see if anything could possibly really be there. Either a beginning or closure. There is something there, I've felt it and so has he, otherwise we wouldn't still be talking. Yowza... I can hardly wait! Butterflies are fluttering in my tummy and other places *snicker*.

Soy milk. Hmmm... I can't have dairy products any more and need something to replace it (I can't take any vitamins either), as well as a good protein source so I decided to try soy milk. Hmmmm... interesting indeed... can't say its yummy but not bad. I got the vanilla flavored and I think that was a good move. Hmmm... I hope it settles well with my stomach, if it does then I guess I'll be drinking this stuff on a daily basis. They need more flavors like strawberry, banana, etc.

Why do I always forget that Wal-Mart and Saturdays are not a good thing until its too late? My Mom asked me to go run a couple of errands with her today, and I felt up to it - which is nuts because I swear that this morning I didn't want to go anywhere. So, we went to Wal-Mart. The grocery part of the store was the worst, people are so rude bumping into you with their carts and shoving their way in front of you when you're looking at something. Where are their manners?! I decided to show Mom that $5.88 DVD bin that I looked through yesterday. LOL! We had a good time looking through it and I found a couple DVDs that I hadn't seen yesterday. I found another Western one for my Dad but I'll save it for part of his Father's Day gift. After the Wal-Mart experience we went to the new "dollar store". Quite an adventure. I got out of there with spending only $4.00. LOL! Now, I don't plan on going anywhere for the next 36 hours or so. My ass is planted. Dad's doctor called today with a bit of good news. Since Dad's chest pains are coming and going "quickly" they're just going to watch him more instead of doing the angiogram/balloons/surgery right away. I'm relieved, but still worried. I can sense something and its scaring me. He's being a good boy and resting today. If things flare up again he's to go into the hospital right away. Mom has spoken to the dipshit twins and if they pull any more stunts like they have been, there will be hell to pay. She has told them that the dipshit #1 Ellis needs to get a job and take care of his wife and child and quit putting all the strain on my Dad, and that both of them need to make a home for their daughter. We'll see what happens, but I'm not holding my breath. Kathy's 40th birthday is on Monday and she is whining to Mom that no one in the family likes her so they won't come over to see her. I really don't see how she can expect anyone to "like" her when she's taking such advantage of my parents and treating everyone like shit. I for one, don't plan on attending any party for her. I did get her a card and a gift card (from Wal-Mart tee hee), and that's gonna have to do. Hmmm... I really sound like a bitch, don't I?!

Busy day today. I got up, cleaned, got my ass in the shower and went to the doctor for my weekly iron IV treatment. When the doctor came in the room, he sat down and said, "We have a problem. Your iron count is not coming up at all despite all the efforts to bring it up. I think we need to do a bone marrow harvest to see what's going on." I about shit right then and there! I composed myself and asked why that would be necessary since its my ulcerative colitis that is causing the whole anemic/nutrition problem. He said, "Oh..." We discussed it a little further and I explained that I'm starting Remacade treatments on Monday, which will be for both the ulcerative colitis and rhuematoid arthritis. He's not going to give me any more iron - go figure on that one. Even though its not coming up, at least its not dropping. I'm so tired - literally! But he wants to wait a few weeks and see if it drops. So, we decided to let my RA doc monitor my blood tests, and hopefully the levels will start coming up on their own. I will also discuss this whole thing with my RA doc on Monday too, to let him know what's going on. I ran a couple of errands after that, then came home and had to do some work for a couple of hours, despite the long days at the conference I still had a couple to work to meet my 40. Not sure how that happened... but it worked out OK and I got some of my financials done. I went to Wal-Mart to get a couple of things, and I found a bargain bin of DVDs for $5.88! LOL! I hit the motherload! I bought a few, and found one for my Dad, a double DVD set of old Westerns. He'll be in hog heaven while watching them. I couldn't find a movie or shows for Mom, but she said as long as Dad is entertained with his Westerns, she's happy. LOL! My Dad has been having chest pains this week, and they did an EKG and blood work on him yesterday, and today they did a thalium treadmill. Dad has been due for a 3rd open heart surgery for a few years now, they watch him pretty close and are putting it off as long as they can. His heart is fine, its the arteries that are shutting down due to the insulin he takes for diabetes. I had a feeling something was up while I was gone, despite me calling Mom and Dad to see how things were, they'd say "fine". Right. I'm pretty worried right now and am hoping things are going to be OK. It could be due to all the additional stress lately that Dad has been under and we can thank my lovely sister Kathy and her husband for the majority of that. Grrr. But I won't go into that! I'm going to relax now and do some blog hopping until I'm too tired to sit here any more. G'Night!

I'm FINALLY HOME!!!! It feels sooooo good to be home. I am utterly exhausted. I feel terrible I haven't been able to visit anyone this week, things were so crazy at the conference and by the time I got back to my hotel, it was all I could do to check my e-mail. I WILL be around this weekend to catch up with everyone!

I'm here in Salt Lake at the conference. Its going well, and am having a good time, but I'm sooooooooo exhausted! There's a bubble bath about to be ran in about 5 minutes that has my name on it. I'm not really too impressed with this hotel. I was really spoiled at the Marriotts I stayed in. One bad thing, its a non-smoking room and some asshole (don't want to offend any smokers out there) smoked in here and it STINKS. I've had the maid service in here 2 times already with the air purifier and its not getting rid of it. Its really making my allergies come out. If this person wanted to smoke in the room, they should have been in a smoking room. Grrr. Anyhoo... the hotel didn't even give me a welcome snack like they were supposed to. Rude. This morning I ran into my old boss Mike O. (who now lives in Detroit). It was sooooo great to see him, and we're going to have lunch tomorrow to catch up. He couldn't believe how much weight I'd lost, he hardly recognized me. Then another guy (named Mike S.) who used to work in my organization was a speaker in my track this morning. I went to say hello and he looked at my name tag and his mouth dropped. He was sort of a snob when he worked there, kinda rude to me and he used to make fun of my weight. I LOVED it when he saw I wasn't that huge girl anymore. Sweet. tee hee He just stood there oogled as he was asking about a mutual friend. We had a luncheon speaker today, who was actually Dave, the guy I went to Boston with last week. He's so entertaining. Then we had two more session of speakers, then Trudy, Shanae and I just went to get a sandwich. I decided I needed a t-shirt to lounge in in while here (I forgot to pack one) so we found a fun little shop in the mall. I got me an Oscar the Grouch one! LOL! Its a perfect shirt for the end of the day. I'm rambling and so I'm going for that bath now. I hope everyone is having a good week so far! Catch you all later! *hugs*

Swiped this from Ginadapooh What's in a name? Name Street USA Karen (Greek) ~ meaning ~ Pure ~ motivation ~ Aims to achieve their goals. ~ character ~ Is able to forgive readily ~ feelings ~ Will stay calm at times of crisis ~ intelligence ~ Forward thinking ~ spiritual ~ Hopeful and trusting ~ nature ~ Someone who is genuine ~ inherent ~ You are always composed Hmmm... interesting... ;-)

My body is rebelling! It knows it has to leave again today and doesn't want to. But I'll make it go. I'm the boss even though it seems to think its the boss at times. I'm meeting Trudy at 2pm and we'll drive down to Salt Lake, get checked into the hotel, register for the conference and then attend the 4pm meeting to get instructions for the rest of the week. This conference is really a lot of fun to work at, the attendees are friendly. I will most likely be exhausted by the end of the day, since I'm an introvert and people really do wear me out. So, I don't know how often I'll blog or be visiting everyone, but I'll try! Anyhoo... I'm just about packed again. I just have to pack the last minute things and hope I don't forget anything. Its not like I totally unpacked from the last trip anyway! LOL!! I did laundry and just repacked it! I plan on spending time cuddling with my cat before I go so she'll still love me. Poor baby - she gets so stressed when I'm gone, and I'm stressed being away from her. Mom and Dad take good care of her and I'm grateful for them. Yesterday my Mom and I went to run a couple of errands, had some lunch too. I was craving cheese enchiladas (surprise, surprise) but I shouldn't have had the chips and salsa. They're becoming a big no-no for my stomach which really sucks. I came home after that and just vegged the rest of the night and was in misery. UGH. Tummy is finally starting to settle down now. I get a phone call from my ex BF Robert last night. He calls on occasion to keep in touch, see what I'm up to, etc. We broke up 7 years ago (my decision), then he spent the next 4-5 years calling about every 6 weeks to see if I was ready to come back yet. HA! Anyway... he's been seeing a lady for the past 2 years and that's cool, but now he's saying that she's being stubborn and too independent so things are rocky. Shit. So guess who he asks out?! Yup, me. I told him I'd go to lunch with him maybe in a couple of weeks but I'm not getting back together with him now or ever. I'm really struggling with even wanting to go to lunch with him. He started talking about not wanting to live anymore, he's so miserable. Aren't we all?! I told him that too. I told him to quit feeling sorry for himself and just take 5 minutes at a time like the rest of us. I know he's hurting, but he's playing the same old guilt games that he used to and I'm not falling for it. I really don't think he realizes just how strong and how much I've changed over the past few years. He's got a rude awakening. I'm not a push-over like I used to be. My sister Kathy is having knee surgery tomorrow, and my poor Mom has to take care of her. Mom is so not looking forward to it. Kathy is such a major boob about everything, and who knows if Kathy's husband will be around to help out - even with their baby. Kathy won't get up and get moving like she's supposed to, she's too lazy. She's milking this thing for all its worth, believe me. I know surgery is never easy, been there done it, but there's a difference between people who "love the attention they get from surgery" and those who don't. Have a great week everyone!! Much love to ya all!

I made it home safe yesterday. I had a great time in Boston. Dave, Les and I went to a BEEF restaurant called Durgan Park Thursday night to eat. It was a really cool place to eat, they had huge rows of long tables and you shared the table with strangers. They had the Durgan Park Prime Rib cut that looked like something Fred Flinstone would have eaten! LOL! OMG - huge. Dave and Les had the smaller cut, and I had to settle for mashed potatoes and carrots. This restricted diet stuff really sucks at times. The restaurant was loud, noisy and full of energy. Lots of fun. After dinner we walked around the market place and saw a couple of things before heading back to the hotel. It was so cold, windy and rainy that we didn't even go out to see any sites that afternoon. So, I'll get to see more in May when I go again. The flight yesterday was good, right on time and I had a row to myself to stretch out. The movie was Antwon Fisher which I thought was a really great movie. Then I broke out the laptop computer and watched a couple of episodes of the "Keeping Up Appearances" DVD set that I bought myself at Barnes and Noble. I needed to spoil myself a bit. Its so good to be home, I can't even tell ya... my cat missed me so much and she hasn't let me out of her site since I got home. We actually went to bed at 6pm last night, I couldn't keep my eyes open a minute longer. I woke up a few times during the night, but finally woke up about 6:30 this morning. I'm doing my laundry now, and getting caught up on some things. Tomorrow I leave for Salt Lake to work at a conference until next Thursday night! I will get as much rest as I can today, after I get all sorted and some errands ran... then maybe I'll be re-energized for tomorrow.

I am still having a great time here in Boston. Dave, Les and I hit a HUGE Barnes & Noble, the mall, and then went out to eat tonight. I need to start packing my stuff since we need to check out of this hotel in the morning, so this is gonna be a quicky post. I need to vent a bit. I just got an e-mail from Greg, who needs me to make some travel arrangements for him tomorrow. Excuse me, I'm 2100 miles from home, all the necessary forms and paperwork are at the office where HE is. He's such a dumbshit sometimes I could strangle him. I wrote back, and told him to get Cindy from our main office to help him! DUH!! I can't do a friggin thing from here. I seriously want to knock on his head and ask if anyone is home sometimes. Of course he CC'd my boss Tim on the e-mail, and I replied to both Greg and my boss. I bet Tim is thinking the same thing I am. DUH! OK... I best get packing so I don't need to get up so early in the morning. Good night! I miss everyone and will hopefully catch up with you all this weekend - before I'm off on another trip on Sunday. Although this is a local trip, I'll still be away from home for another week. Ah well, its a nice change of pace!

Well, I'm Boston!!! Yahoo!! My flight yesterday was good, we had to go up into Canada due to bad weather near Chicago, but that was OK, since we got two movies. Maid in Manhattan and Two Weeks' Notice. The flight wasn't too crowded, so that was nice. Traffic was unbelievable good getting to our hotel in Burlington (near Hanscom AFB, where the workshop is being held). Dave drives like a true Masshole, its great. He's been to this area a few times before and zoomed in and out of traffic and knew just where he was going. Now, he and Les travel so much together, they're like an old married couple - its so funny. They even admit it. They're a great couple of guys. The workshop got off to a good start today, and the best part of the day was when my good bud Colin was able to meet me as I arrived at the building, then later he took me to lunch!! Thanks again, Colin! YOU'RE the BEST! We ate at a quiant place called the Colonial Inn. Good food, good company, what else could ya want?! Tonight Dave and Les wanted to see a movie at the local mall, but I'm staying in, doing some work, playing on the ever-so-slow net, ordering room service, having a great old soak in a bubble bath, and watching TV. This humid weather is really bothering my RA today, so I'm taking it easy tonight so I can have fun the rest of the time. We'll galavant tomorrow night around here, then Thursday night we'll be at the Long Wharf Marriott right in Boston. Hope everyone is having a good week!! :-)

I just got back from eating dinner at my brother J Dee and sis-in-law Patti''s house for Easter. Yummy food, ham, potatoes & gravy, and homemade rolls. There was lots of other stuff that I couldn't eat though but that's OK. What I had was delicous. All their kids were there, and it was great to see all of Patti's kids and grandkids. I hadn't seen them since before Xmas. Everyone told me how great I look (the weight loss) which made me feel good. My friend Robin called and told me that her hubby had got my car done. It was the ingnition coil and a couple of modules that had gone bad. I'm sooo grateful to this man for all the work he's put into it this week, and he only charged me for the parts. I owe them dinner at least so I'll take them out when I get back from all my travels. So, my car is home, safe and sound. Its still missing a bit, but he thinks it should work itself out, because there was more fuel injector cleaner left than gas since it was sucking gas so bad in the last tank and it probably clogged a plug up. So, I've asked my Mom and Dad to drive my car while I'm gone to get the cleaner run out. Oh, how my Mom loves to drive my car since its a standard. Well, I'm off to Boston in the morning! I'll try and update as I can, and if I get a chance pop around to see how everyone is doing.

Happy Easter everyone! Relax and enjoy your day!

Don't you just hate it when you're trying to find one thing that you know you put in a certain place, but now its not there? I can't find my small umbrella! ARRRGGHHH! I know I put it in my closet but can't find it now. I do have other umbrellas, but this is a travel sized one and I need to take it to Boston with me. I'm gonna drive myself batty until I find this stupid thing - and no doubt once I do find it, take it to Boston, then I won't need it. Sounds about right, huh? LOL! So, you see I've started the packing - I'm obsessive. LOL!! Now if I can find that damn umbrella.

I went to get my iron IV yesterday and my general doctor kept me waiting for 45 minutes, he came in, looked at my blood tests from last week, said "I need to check on something, I'll be right back." He saw other patients then came back 25 minutes later and finally gave the IV to me. It took 5 fricking minutes. I was so mad - I wish he would have had his nurse do it if he were so busy!! Anyway, he's still concerned that the iron isn't coming up. I told him that it is the UC that's causing the problem and that I'm starting the Remacade in 2 weeks. He was really glad that I'm starting it. I came home, got Mom and we did the lunch thing and ran some errands. I've got everything I need now for my trip to Boston - at least I hope I haven't forgotten anything! We'll find out when I get packing tomorrow. But knowing me, I'll be to anxious tonight and start packing. tee hee I've already got my laptop and workshop things all packed and ready. Spare battery charged and all. I'm so obsessive about being prepared. LOL! Here are a couple of pics I thought I'd share. Awww!

Enjoy your Saturday!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yesterday was completely nuts, but I managed to get everything done - I hope! I was so exhausted by the time I got home, I didn't even read any blogs- bad Karen. I'll catch up today/tonight after I get all my errands ran. I got a call from my old boss Gordon yesterday. He got another job with another company a few years ago, and now he's back with my company and has been for the last couple of years. He works out of the main office, and has had a tendency to try and take advantage of our friendship by asking me to do things to help him out, which is fine BUT he needs to follow the proper chain of command, which is to go through my boss Tim. Anyway, Gordon called to ask me if I could help out with another office on base while a lady is out on medical leave. I'm a team player and willing to help out any way I can, but there's a limit to my time and this lady performed other duties than I do, so I may not be much help. Gordon mentioned some other people from the main office that didn't have much to do all the time, but he wanted me to help out since he knew I'd get the job done. Does that sound fair?! Here there are people who have the time that could take care of things easier than I can and he's bugging me. I brought up the fact that I'll be out of the office for 2 weeks, and would have so much to do when I returned so chances were slim that I could do a whole lot. I also mentioned the tiny fact that he should be clearing this with Tim. I got off the phone and told Tim what was going on. Tim wasn't too happy about it either, because he knows how busy I am. Gordon finally e-mailed Tim and asked him. Tim told him very politely that my job comes first. If I do happen to have a few minutes to spare then I can help, otherwise get one of the others to help. They really should just bite the bullet and get a temp in there. I did get some GREAT news though. I called the lady at my RA docs office who takes care of the Remacade appts and insurance stuff, just to see if there was a chance that I could set up and appt for when I get back in 2 weeks to get started, since I was pretty sure the insurance would approve it, since they did last year. She said she was just about to call me, she got approval back!! Yahhoooo! So I start with my first treatment on May 5. It will take 2.5-3 hours for each treatment. The date for the first treatment isn't the best, its the first day I'll be back in the office but I need to get started. I'll go back to work after the treatment and probably take my laptop and do work while I'm sitting there. Then my second treatment will be on May 13. We'll schedule my next appt after that, I think its either a month later or another 2 weeks, I can't remember. I'm just so happy its working out.

I decided to check with my insurance when I got home last night to see what my "out of pocket"/coinsurance expenses that are remaining so I can be prepared (or at least not shocked) for what my portion of the Remacade treatments will be (still pending approval). Since each treatment (will need 9 treatments in the first year!!) is $4000 and my portion will be 80% of that, up to my coinsurance amount has been met for the year then they'll pay 100%. I got the best news. For "in network providers" which my RA doc is one, I have met the $1250 max already this year! I was soooooo relieved. So, fingers crossed that the Remacade will be approved - I don't see any problem with it being approved, especially since it was approved last year and that I will be using it for two problems. 3 for Thursday questions are up, go play. My answers are on my Meme page. I have loads to do today. I've got to finish up some things, and make sure I've got all I need for the next two weeks. Laptop is pretty much ready to go, except I have to fill out some paperwork so I can be allowed access into the base network from the outside. Hopefully they'll process the paperwork right away so I can check my e-mail and have internet access next week! Have a great day everyone!! P.S. Have I mentioned how wonderful you all are lately!? You truly are. Thank you as always for all your support!!

Got back from my RA doc. He was so glad to see my progress with the clinical trial medication, but with the problems with the ulcerative colitis not getting any better and it causing so many nutritional problems, we had to make the tough decision to take me off the study and put me on Remacade (which will help both diseases). They have to double check with my insurance first to make sure it will be covered (it was last year so it should still be covered this year). He increased my prednisone from 10 to 40 mg a day to help with the UC and RA until I can start the Remacade. I'm anxious to get started on it. I'm hoping once its approved, I can start the first part of May when I'm home from all my traveling. Fingers crossed!! Its going to increase my medical bills - but I need to do this. I feel good about the decision. I've had a pretty good day so far, been getting stuff done. One of the managers asked me to produce a flyer to be given at the conference in a couple of weeks announcing a new document we just finished. I made one up, and it was approved on the first draft. YAY! I'm waiting on some workshop slides now, to print off for a workshop in May so I'm relaxing a bit. I have my laptop, and its being set up for my trip to Boston and the conference. I need to burn a few CDs of several files so I have them with me in case I need them. No real word on my car yet. Jerry told Robin a couple of things last night while she was half asleep, the compression is fine, but a valve has gone bad (if Robin remembered right) but there was more that she couldn't remember what he said so she'll have to tell me tomorrow.

The yogurt container strikes again *squirt*. Just call me Monica...suspicious-looking substance splattered on a black dress. Thank God for those Shout Wipes! LOL!!!

Happy Hump Day everyone! YAY! Week is half over!!! I'm sitting here at work, eating breakfast trying to get motivated to do something. I've got a lot to do, but things are on the down-hill slide as far as getting things done before I leave. Today is my last day of being Queen Supreme around here since my boss will be back tomorrow. HEY, wait a minute... I should be Queen Surpreme whether he's here or not! LOL!!! Just kidding... Queen Supreme isn't everything its cracked up to be. With Timster gone, people come to me with questions. Luckily I've been able to answer them! I rule! I've got an appt with my RA doc today, so we'll see what he and my gastro doc worked out for an aggressive treatment. No more pussy-footing around here. Have a great day!!

I left work at noon today. I hadn't really felt all that great this morning, really weak and tired. By noon I was exhausted so I decided to come home. I got home, got in my jammies and started to watch "Maid in Manhattan" that my sis Susie let me borrow. I fell asleep during it (from pure exhaustion, not a boring movie) and woke up a while later and watched the parts I missed. I really liked the movie, but I wish there had been more shenanigans than there were. I'm feeling a lot better now, but still tired so I'm going to make it an early night and probably watch the movie again! LOL!!

No news on my car yet, Jerry had to work 12 hrs yesterday, so he'll look at it tonight. I just hope its something that can be fixed and easily or I'm up shit creek. *sigh* Found this quizzie at Bev's.

I scored 74% on the classic 400 Point Purity Test!

Take the test here!

Yesterday was crazy. I kicked ass as far as getting things done though. My boss and other cubie Greg are gone for most of the week (my boss will be in on Thursday) so even though they're gone, I was so busy. I am Queen Supreme but with no one to rule. tee hee I've got a lot to do this week since I'll be out of my office for the next two weeks, so not a lot of play time. I'm hoping today will be calmer than yesterday though. One of the things I had to do yesterday afternoon was to go up to my old building to pack up our documents that were in a storage room... its finally time to move them. So, while I was there I stopped in to see my buddy Brian and Linda was there too. Brian gave me a big hug and then Linda poked her nose out of her cubical and she acted OK, but she didn't even bother to get her butt out of her chair to give me a hug - and I didn't go give her one. She told me how great I looked, then in the same breath told me I needed to go get new levis. Levis I was wearing were ones that fit me nicely now. Sheesh. Whatever. I got several compliments on how I looked yesterday so *phhttt*. I saw my friend Nancy and chatted for a while after I'd packed some stuff up. I had one file cabinet emptied, then a very nice guy Kent said he could move the other two cabinets full. YAY. They'll get a forklift and a moving truck to finish it up tomorrow. Dad's b-day party was nice last night. Very quiet though, my bro J Dee, his wife Patti, my sis Susie, and my niece Elyssa were the only ones there (while I was there) besides my parents. We had a nice visit. My other brother was coming later after I went to bed. It was SO great not to have my sis Kathy and her hubby Ellis there. Supposedly, Ellis had a couple of job interviews (choke, choke, cough, cough). When Dad told Susie where Kathy was, Susie said "You mean that's where they SAY they are." ROFL! We all cracked up about it. They're such liars, we can't believe anything they say. I think the whole thing was a ploy not to be home for Dad's party because Ellis doesn't like crowds. Poor baby. Well, I'm off to work! Have a great day!

Dad apologized last night for yelling at me and being so rude. He said he just gets so frustrated at times, and that Mom and I aren't the cause so he shouldn't be taking it out on us. Mom and I told him we're frustrated beyond belief about Kathy and Ellis too, and we're all at our breaking point. Dad said I could borrow his car since I had further to go, and he and Mom would use the Blazer. He decided not to go to Salt Lake after all, since his twin sis has other plans. I called my brother last night, to see if I could borrow that jeep, but he wasn't home... but I did get to talk to Patti! Its been ages since I've talked to her. We talked for about 45 minutes. They did actually just sold the jeep, which is good, they've been trying for months to sell it. Happy 69th Birthday to my Dad (and my Aunt Joan). We all chipped in and bought him a big canopied swing for the deck. He's wanted one for years. Dad and Ellis put it together Saturday night, so I'm guessing that he tried to have a "Man to Man" talk with Ellis while they were out there and that's what caused Dad to get so upset. You can't have a "Man to Man" talk with Ellis when Ellis isn't a "man". He's a selfish child who thinks he's a man. Anyhoo... the family will get together tonight for Strawberry Shortcake. That's about all for now... I need to get some work done this morning before the mailman comes. Have a great Monday!

Isn't it amazing, how one of the most important people in your life can say just a few words to you and can make you feel like a complete piece of shit? I went upstairs a few minutes ago to ask my parents if I could borrow a car tomorrow (and the next few days probably), and my Dad blew up at me. He said he "wished I had consulted him before leaving my car somewhere and putting them all in a bind." Thanks Dad. I had no choice but to leave my car, because I shouldn't be driving it. Then he said he and Mom were planning on going to Salt Lake tomorrow to celebrate his birthday, but now since I needed a car, they couldn't do it. Despite them having TWO cars and only needing ONE to go to Salt Lake. Then Dad left the room, and Mom told me not to take it personally, he's had a bug up his butt all day long and she's been the one he's been crappy to, now I've joined the ranks too. It made her feel a little better knowing it wasn't "just her." I hate having to even ask for help, to inconvenience anyone. Mom said I could take her Blazer, and that they would make do. I feel so damn guilty now, because of what Dad said, despite knowing he's in a "mood". I tried to call my brother, in hopes that maybe I could borrow my nephew's jeep he's trying to sell, maybe get some exposure for it to be sold, but he's not home from church yet. That way, no one is inconvenienced. My nephew has another car already so it might work out.

*hugs* and thanks for everyone's support yesterday! I feel so bad for my brother and his kids, but they are doing well considering all they've been through. My brother actually went out on his first date last month, which was good to hear. I had a pretty relaxing day yesterday for the most part. I went outside, washed my car and basked in the sunshine on the deck for a while. I came inside, took a nap, showered, then read a book for most of the evening. This morning, I took my car out to my friend Robin's house. Her husband Jerry offered to check it out to see if he could figure out what's wrong with it. He said he thinks its a compression problem, and he needed to go buy a new compression guage because his was broken. Hmmm... yeah, that made me feel guilty, but he said I gave him a good excuse to go buy a new toy! So, I left my car there, and he'll work on it the next few days and see if he can figure it out and get it fixed. Robin and Jerry are surely two wonderful people! So, now I've got to sort out a way to work for the next few days. Hopefully Mom and Dad will let me borrow one of theirs. I guess that's all for now... kinda in a blah mood today. I hope everyone is having a great Sunday!

The Breast Cancer Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site & click on 'donating a mammogram' for free (pink window in the middle). This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate a mammogram in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site Click here Thanks to Kat for posting this information. Its so important to detect and get early treatment. Don't take life or your health for granted, its too precious. Tomorrow (April 12) will be the 4th anniversary of my sister-in-law Lisa's death. She had breast cancer, and it later spread to her brain fluid. She later died of complications of the cancer treatments. She left my brother and 4 children behind, despite fighting like hell to beat the cancer. To show my respect and love for Lisa, I'm not going to write tomorrow. I love you, Lisa. Rest in peace.

Its just like Christmas today!!!! I actually got a Christmas present from my good friends Jacky and Bob from England! LOL!! It was mailed in OCT 2002 and I just got it. To think of where it has been, and why it took so long to get here really makes your mind wonder. I've been getting my towels and magnets too from the exchanges that I participated in too, so much fun!!!! I've loved everything I've gotten. The ladies are so great! The sock exchange is coming up, so I'm excited for that. The gastro doc is pretty much at a loss of what to do with me, since I'm on the clinical trial meds for my Rheumatoid Arthritis, there's not a lot he can do. So, I need to talk to my RA doc on Wednesday and tell him we need to get tough with the uclerative colitis. There's got to be something that they can do, even if it means taking me off the clinical trial and going on Remacade. I gotta do something, I'm tired of living like this. The gastro doc is starting to get really worried about my weight loss, since I'd lost a lot since they weighed me last. The nurse said "whoa!" LOL!! I've got it to lose, but its not a very healthy way to lose it. I'd rather get feeling better, get my energy back, and work out again and get it off that way. Working out is such a good stress reliever for me too. My iron IV went OK, Dr. M took more blood. He's concerned that the levels of iron aren't coming up quite as fast as they should, which he thinks is due to the UC, but wants to make sure. So, I'll go back again next Friday for the results and more iron. I came home after my appts and picked Mom up, then we went to lunch. We decided to try Blimpies and I had a roasted Club Sandwich (with just meat and cheese - can't have the raw vegies cuz of my stomach, grrr). It was really yummy, but I could only eat half of it. So, now I've got dinner too! We hit the Wal-Mart, the pharmacy, then went to get Mom's hair cut. It is absolutely gorgeous outside so me thinks I'll go out and enjoy it. Take a book out on the deck and bask in the sun for a little while! AHHH! Spring!

Good Morning! Its FRIDAY! Woohoo!! I'm on a tight schedule this morning, I have just a few minutes before I gotta get my ass in the shower and head off to two doc appointments. I did all of my cleaning last night except the vacuuming so I'll do that when I get home later. In the mean time... here's some entertainment! Cracks found on a Navy Helicopter.
Join the Red Cross... I know I want to!
Have a great day!!!

Good Morning! I'm soooooooooo glad its Thursday!!! Its MY Friday! 3 for Thursday questions are up, go play if you'd like. My answers are on my Meme page. I'm feeling a lot less stressed today. My car was still a pain, but its not getting any worse, so that's a good sign I think! I talked to my brother too, and he said I really needed to use up the whole tank of gas so all the injector cleaner would go through (makes sense, huh! LOL!). He said I needed to take it on a drive to Salt Lake or somewhere on the freeway to keep up the high RPMs. I'm still going to have Robin's hubby look at it though if he's willing this weekend. I had some yummy naughty dreams last night that woke me up in the middle of the night. Oh boy... I like to day dream about those naughty dreams! LOL!! Maybe that's why I'm in such a good mood today. *snicker*

What a long day! I'm beat... the good news is, I made it to work, ran a couple of errands, and home again without my car leaving me at the side of the road. Its still acting up. I was talking to my friend Robin about it, and she said she'd ask her hubby to take a look at it this weekend. He works on cars all the time, so hopefully he'll be able to figure out what's going on. The mechanic yesterday said that everything looked good up to the point where his computer didn't trace things any more, which is the modules and the fuel injectors. *sigh* Who knows... my brain is dead and I'm exhausted from being stressed about it. I got me a new paper shredder at work. NEW TOY! It shreds to confetti! The confetti can be used for evil purposes, and would be so hard to clean up! So people in my office better be nice or they may find their cubicals decorated with some confetti!. tee hee Good night!

I went to pick up my car yesterday afternoon, the tune up and the motor mounts being replaced cost me $350. Lovely. Then I get in it, start it up, start driving and it starts shaking and running rough - same frickin' thing it was in there to get FIXED for, but was actually not quite as bad. I got out of my car and went back inside and told them it was STILL doing it. The mechanic took it for a test run and came back and said "You're right." DUH. So, he hooked it up the the computer and couldn't find anything. BUT he said there were two things his computer didn't check for. Fuel injectors and the modules. Great. Now, I had a module replaced about 18 months ago and those babies aren't cheap. But it wasn't really acting quite the same, and the mechanic thought its most likely the fuel injectors. So he said to go get gas and buy some injector cleaner. So, I did. They said to drive it for a couple of days (ARRRGGHHH) and hopefully that would take care of the problem, if not... take it to yet another mechanic and have it looked at. I was so nervous driving to work this morning, but I made it. It runs smooth, then rough, smooth, then rough. Some places I had it floored to even keep up to speed on the freeway. I'll see how the rest of the day and tomorrow goes. I think I will call my buddy Bri though, and ask him what he thinks. I'm quite pissed about having to spend $350 already, money I really don't have. But, it was about due for a tune up, and the motor mounts did need to be replaced, so... what do ya do? I need to win the PCH sweepstakes is what I need to do. My nephew Travis stopped over last night to show me his new toy. My sis Susie was there too, she dropped over for a few minutes. Travis bought him a motorcycle. Brand new. Its a Kawasaki something that starts with a V. Such a beautiful bike, crome and black! After he learns how to drive it properly, he'll take me for a ride on it. Weeee! Well, I best get to work. Hopefully I'll have time to stop in and say howdy, if I get a break. Have a great day!

Swiped this from Jen

Take the "How Do You Use Magic?" test! Written by Brimo

Good morning! One day of the week down. Nothing to bitch about this morning, tee hee. My sandwich was left alone, and I can't wait to eat it for lunch. Homemade wheat bread, homemade pear jam, and peanut butter. Mmmm. Been craving it for 2 days now! I do have lots to do this morning, and if I can get it done, I may be able to take a break and do some blog hopping! Have a great day everyone!

I came home, and talked to Mom about the sandwich. She said it would have had to been Kathy, because Ellis doesn't like peanut butter. So... in my mind that makes it worse, because Kathy was raised in this house - and almost 40 years old, I might add - and was taught better. Mom saw the note and empty sandwich bag and left it on the counter for Kathy to see. Kathy didn't say anything to Mom and she's not home for me to bitch out. Not that I should really start bitching her out because after all she's put my parents through, I won't be able to stop. Out of respect for my parents, I won't. If Kathy does happen to say anything to me, I will tell her she owes me $5 for the lunch I had to buy today, and to follow this rule: "if you don't make it, don't eat it." Simple enough rule even for her to understand. I think she's a chicken shit and won't say anything to me, and I'd rather not see her face. I DO love the ideas you guys gave me in my comments though! LOL! Hot pepper flakes/cayenne pepper will be perfect! tee hee Maybe... hmmm... maybe I'll put that in something else that I cook and set it in the fridge as a trap. PERFECT! Bwaahhahhahahaha I'll wait a week or so before I do it so it will come as a surprise. I did make myself another sandwich for tomorrow, but I labeled it. "This belongs to Karen. Make your own." Anyhoo... today was a pretty good day once I calmed down, those Xanax work wonders. *snicker* I got a lot done, but still not all the way done with my internal financials balancing. I kept getting side tracked with other stuff that needed to be done. Maybe tomorrow will be quieter. My car won't be finished until tomorrow. I talked to them this morning and they said, "We checked the one spark plug out and it was still tight, so took it for a test run and it ran great!" RIGHT and a monkey just flew out of my butt! I told them to go a head with the tune up and they're replacing the motor mounts which are wearing. It ran awful for my Dad taking it in so its not just acting up for me. I hope everyone had a great day - and I'll be around to visit soon!

I am absolutely livid right now. I am getting so sick and tired of the f*cking pigs that call themselves my sister Kathy and her asshole husband Ellis. Last night, I made myself a peanut butter sandwich with Mom's homemade pear jam on it for lunch today. I left it sitting on the counter in a sandwich bag. Now, you'd think that it would be safe. But it wasn't. I found the empty bag sitting on the counter this morning. Who would want to eat a sandwich not knowing who made it, what kind it was, and for what reason it was made for?? How big of an idiot would one have to be? Do they seriously think that someone would be nice enough to make them a sandwich and set it out for them to eat? Well, I guess I just answered my own questions. Kathy and/or Ellis. I know its only a sandwich - but combined with the long line of crap and all the other stuff they pull, I have HAD IT. I left a big note, written in marker sitting with the empty bag "WHO ATE MY SANDWICH??? THANK YOU SO MUCH." I think I'm done venting now... thanks for listening. Now I'm going to try and concentrate on having a good day.

Car that might be up for sale soon! I took this pic last weekend, just after I'd washed it by hand for the first time this year. One of my fav things to do.
I'm so frustrated and worried about my car. I hate not knowing what could be wrong or how to fix it... feel helpless. Its only got 149,000 miles on it, and I was hoping it would get to at least 175,000 before I had to replace it. *whimper* Not much planned today. Its too cold outside to do anything, we're expecting snow and it looks like its starting to move in on the mountains now. I may just stay in my PJs all day long! Ahhh! I will shower, but then get into a fresh pair of jammies. Doesn't that sound like a good plan?

Nothing much to write about today, I guess I'm sorta in a blah mood. I did enjoy catching up with everyone last night and this morning. I chatted with Connie and Cin for a while this morning, they're so funny, then I took a 2 hour nap this afternoon. Lazy day...

Mom and I had a good day today. We went to IHOP for lunch cuz I was craving breakfast (we didn't go to the restaurant where my sis works - who have the BEST breakfasts because we were on the other end of town). Kane - I want you to know that I behaved and didn't have that stuffed french toast that you mentioned one day, the stuff that I've been fantasizing about ever since you mentioned it. It looked incredible, but with my diet restrictions, cream cheese is a no-no (yes, that means no more cheese cake for me *wimper*). Anyway, I had some hashbrowns, an egg and a pancake which was pretty good, but not as good as my sis makes though. Then we headed off to run the errands. We stopped off at Rite Aid Pharmacy to pick up an RX and saw a sign by some CD-R's, (a spindle of 40, 70 MB) that said 4.99. Too good to be true? Yup. Covering part of the actual dollar amount of $14.99 was a rebate coupon for $5. LOL! Still a good deal, but I was so disappointed when I saw that 1. My heart just sank. They were out of my RX so they had to go to another store to get it, so I told them I'd come back later. When I went to go back to the pharmacy a little while ago, I jumped in my car (we had taken Dad's car earlier), and Grrrrr. Its doing the same thing it was doing Thursday. Loose spark plug, my ass. So I took it back to the mechanic and he tells me that it probably needs a tune up and it would cost $100-150. Sigh. So, its scheduled for Monday. I HOPE that's all it needs, because I sure can't afford any more than that. At this moment I am so wishing I could go out and just get a new car but I just can't afford it. Once I get feeling better and my health is under control, I will probably have to see about getting a second job then I could probably work out getting another car, even a good used one to buy me some time. I hate money troubles! Life would be so much simpler if we didn't have to worry about money. Things could be worse though, so I shall be grateful for what I have.

Happy Friday!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm trying to get my ass moving this morning, I need to get my cleaning done... still, here I sit. Technically I'm still eating my breakfast so I suppose I can stay for a bit longer. I've got a lot to do today, I have to go get my weekly iron IV at the doc, then run some errands. Nothing exciting... I'll see if Mom wants to go to lunch again and run the errrands with me. Have a great day!

My Dad called me at work this afternoon to tell me about my car. He said "Karen, your car has major problems and its going to cost you a lot." I gasp! Then he said, "Its gonna cost you $25, it was a loose spark plug." He was laughing by then, and then got me laughing. What a brat! Anyway, the mechanic said the my engine mounts are starting to wear so I'll need to replace those soon. I need to check into it and see how much that will cost me. I'm soooo relieved - thank you to everyone's good thoughts, they worked! I was so glad to get out of work today, my week is over. YAY! The financials really kicked my butt this week. I've got them sorted for the most part now, but still have to do my double-check balancing next week. Hopefully after I get that done, things will ease up some and I'll have a chance to take a break once in a while. I got my tickets for Boston on the 21st of April! So I'm set! I e-mailed Dave and told him that I was going with him and Les instead of Debi and he said I needed to pass a test first. 1. Go to a specific restaurant, 2. See at least one movie, and 3. Go see where the Revolutionary War started. He said if I said "yes" to all 3 then I passed. So, I passed. Its cool that he and Les are taking me under their wing while I'm out there. I'm soooooo excited to see Colin and hopefully his wife, the Lovely D while I'm out there. Weeee!!! Lunch for sure, and maybe an early dinner. I'll be able to spend more time on my trip out in May, when I'm flying in over the weekend.

My car was acting funny this morning, so I made it a block and turned around and came home. Dad said it sounded like not all 6 cylinders were firing. Great. It started acting funny on the way home last night, but we hoped that it was because of the huge windy rain/snow storm we had and that I got a little water in the gas. Nope. Anyway, Dad let me take Mom's blazer to work today. He's going to call around this morning to see if he can get my car into a mechanic. I sure hope its nothing major, but when a car is almost 16 years old, one can expect things to go wrong now and then. Its been a good car and I've tried to take good care of it. Second thing - I got here, went straight to work on my financials and found the silly error within 5 minutes. When I say silly, I mean stupid, really stupid mistake on my part. I was so mad at myself, yet so relieved that I found it, all I oculd say was "well f*ck me". LOL! I even had my boss help me yesterday to figure out where the error was, I'm really not looking forward to telling him what it was. Maybe I'll just tell him "I found it, aren't I good?" and hope he doesn't ask what the mistake was! He may just laugh. It was probably a good thing for him to go through the financials yesterday anyway, just for a sanity check once in a while. Which we all know - I could use. tee hee Have a great day everyone. Go play 3 for Thursday if you're so inclined. My answers are here.

Holy shit, what a day. I spent the majority of the day trying to figure out an error in my financials. I'm totally brain dead. I still haven't found where it is exactly, but its my goof and its driving me bonkers. Its not in the labor category - where I thought it may be most of the day - for damn sure, so its got to be in the travel expenses. So, first thing in the morning, I'll get cracking at it again. Hopefully I'll find it fast and get on with the rest of the financial work. I was asked to go to Boston again, to help out with a workshop the week of April 21! YAY! I'm so excited. I'm going with Dave and Les, a couple of really fun guys from work. I'm all set for my hotel, and my flights will be booked tomorrow. Non-stop flights I might add! Another day of not getting around to visit anyone - I hate that. It's not right when work interferes with my fun.

Its gonna be another crazy day... the list of things to do has filled up all the lines in my planner. UGH. Financials day too, to top it off. I'll just take one thing at a time and breathe in and out. tee hee That Michael guy responded to my e-mail. He said he wished he could have spoken to me on the phone again "because I had a lovely voice and he would like a bit more information and would l like to discuss it." I explained (like I did from the beginning) that I'm not a technical person and its best to e-mail the specifics to me so I can ask our experts - so nothing gets lost in the translation. So, he wrote back telling me what he needed - then I sent him the info back, and he e-mailed me again saying he still wants to talk to me more. I finally told him that I'd have one of our experts contact him for further information, because it would be easier. I've passed him off, so hopefully he won't bug me any more! There really isn't any more info we can give him anyway without detailed consulting - which will cost him! I heard one of my old favorite songs from the 80's this morning - "Gonna Harden My Heart" by Quarterflash. Anyone remember them? I need to find the CD with that song on it. My sis had the record and we just loved the whole thing. I hope there is a CD of it, I can't get the song out of my head now. I *really* have to get to work now. You all enjoy the Hump Day!!!

OK, so that "Michael Hunt" thing was for real. The guy did indeed call Nichole for my number. He left me two voice mails yesterday afternoon after I'd gone home. The first message was to say "thank you" for the info I sent him, and then he asked that I call him this afternoon to "talk". Then the second was in response to the e-mail I'd sent him telling him that Nicole was sorry she disconnected him when trying to transfer the call. He said that "he's looking forward to hearing from me." Does this man NOT realize that this is business and not personal? Uuueeerrrghh. Right - I'm going to call him! WTF?! I'm going to e-mail him and ask if he needs more information than we provided - but that is it.

I made it to work, looked at my "things to do" list and I think I wanna crawl in a hole and make it go away. But it won't go away, it will just pile up so I'll buck up and get things done. I went to Kinko's yesterday, dropped off some workshop materials to copied, and now Greg decides he has another section to add and writes me a note that it needs to be taken to Kinko's. My a&& is does. I don't have time to run to Kinko's today! Grrrr. Either he can take it, or we'll make 14 copies here. It will probably be faster for me to make the copies here than run to Kinko's for that many. Sheesh! Enough whinging... I just got my preliminary itinerary from travel on my Boston trip! W00T!!!! I'm soooo excited!! OK... off to work! Enjoy your day!!!!!!!

My day was extremely crazy, so I didn't get much of a chance to blog - except for that little story. I didn't even have a chance to look at one blog until just now! UGH! I hate Mondays. If I don't get around to see you, I'll try to tomorrow! I hope everyone survived their Mondays!

Nicole just yelled over the cubical wall that "Michael *pause* Hunt" just called for me, and was looking for my number but she accidentally hung up on him while trying to transfer his call. Yeah, right like I'm gonna fall for that one!!!!!!!!! So I went over to her cubical and she said that was really the name he gave. He said that I'd sent him an e-mail earlier today and I didn't include my phone number. Then I said, "Why didn't he just reply to my e-mail then?" Nicole said, "Because he'd deleted your e-mail." I started laughing and told her it was a nice try, and thanks for the laugh. Then I started walking away and remembering a Michael XXXXX that I'd e-mailed earlier, and she said "YES, that's him." He'd replied thanking me for the info I sent him, so I decided to say "you're welcome - and by the way if that was you that Nicole just hung up on, she's sorry and gave him my number." I worded it differently, professionally of course, but I'll feel like a dork if it really wasn't him and it was a joke. LOL! Oh well... got a good laugh out of it anyway!

I just checked the temp outside... its only 9:21am and already its 51!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sunshine, here I come, in about 90 minutes! I think I'll even wash my car!

Well, my heart strings are no longer being tugged at as far as Kathy is concerned. Her and her hubby are back to their old tricks. Taking Mom's car, "just for a few minutes to go check on a friend of theirs" yesterday afternoon and not coming back until the wee hours of the night, leaving their daughter to be tended by my parents. No phone calls to say they'd be late, not answering the cell phone. Nadda. Mom and Dad were furious, and I do believe they may have really done it this time, at least I hope so. Act like children, be treated like children. Despite Kathy being almost 40, she's acting like a selfish brat (which really she's done all her life except for a 15 year period when she was a grown-up, I don't know why we should expect differently). I guess Kathy was feeling well enough with her "hurt knee" to be galavanting around and DRIVING. I cannot believe that my Dad let them out of the house. I had a feeling she was really pushing this shit. Grrr. One more excuse to be a lazy ass and not take care of her child, cook her meals, or clean up after herself. OK - enough bitching! I watched the movie Signs last night. I thought it was even better the second time. Looks like it *might* be a beautiful day outside! Fingers crossed that I can head out to the deck and bask in the sunshine!

My heart strings were tugged at today. My sister Kathy (who is not one of my favorite people) hurt her knee last Tuesday night. She's been hobbling about on crutches. Today she came out of her bedroom (I was upstairs making some lunch) and she needed to get into the bathroom, but Dad was taking a bath. She turned around, and was heading back into the bedroom when I hear a crash, boom and her screaming. She'd tripped on a blanket on the floor (where her husband Ellis was sleeping - the lazy ASS), and fell. I ran in there, there she was crying in pain, and that asshole husband of hers was not even budging to help her. He just laid there. I was furious. I was about to tell him to get up and do something, then the phone rang, and Kathy thought it might be the doc so she asked me to answer it, and it was the doc. The pain pills she's taking were making her sick, and he needed to know where to call in other pain meds. I asked Kathy if she knew the pharmacy number, and she didn't, so I told Ellis "to get off his ass and get the number" (first words I've spoken to the man in well over a year). I didn't even care that the doctor could hear what I said to Ellis. tee hee I don't think Ellis was too happy with me, but that's tough shit. There his wife is on the floor in pain and he's not doing a damn thing to help. I could have strangled him. I felt so bad for Kathy, she really needs to get rid of this loser. I admit, despite all my bitching about Kathy, I do still love her. She still is my sister. I want her to be well again, I want her to be able to get a job and do what she's meant to do, to strive to be a better person and take care of her daughter.

I've joined the Blogshares. I really don't know much about the stock market, so I may really suck at it, but what the hell, its not *real* money. But I have faith in the blogs that I've purchased stock in: Sara Kat Gigglechick Kate Maria There are more that I want to buy stock on, so please let me know that you've claimed your blog and I'll buy some stock!

I'm having a pretty relaxing day today. Its felt really great to have everything done that *needs* to be done. I had a great phone chat with Maria this morning. While we were on the phone, Sara called her - too bad we couldn't have had a 3-way convo, its been a while since I've chatted with Sara. I was hoping the weather was going to be cooperative today, sitting out on the deck with a good book sounds so nice, but its too damn cold, only 43. *sigh* I'll take a nap instead. I hope everyone is enjoying your Saturday!

Snagged this from Lesa
free enneagram test The caring, interpersonal type. Twos are empathetic, sincere, and warm-hearted. They are friendly, generous, and self-sacrificing, but can also be sentimental, flattering, and people-pleasing. They are well-meaning and driven to be close to others, but can slip into doing things for others in order to be needed. They typically have problems with possessiveness and with acknowledging their own needs. At their Best: unselfish and altruistic, they have unconditional love for others.

I got a call from my general doc's office telling me that the iron IVs finally came in, and asked if I could get there in 50 minutes. Just finished cleaning, hadn't showered, but took the challenge. I made it. Its a good thing his office is 5 minutes away. He gave me the iron, and told me I needed to come back a couple more times, but my levels were coming up, finally. YAY. Then I came home, picked up Mom, and we were off again. We were craving Mexican, so we stopped off and got some cha, cha, cha - cheese enchiladas. Then we were fueled for shopping. We covered the pharmacy, the fabric store, Sam's Club, and Walmart. All in 3 hours. We were both exhausted by the time we got home. I only needed a couple things for a change, and today was her heavy shopping day. It was nice to be able to help HER for a change! We had a really nice talk in our travels today, about all sorts of things. I'm really enjoying my days out with my Mom. She's an incredible woman. I don't know what I'd do without her - or my Dad. Dad told Mom this morning that he's glad to see her getting out with me on Fridays. We both seem much more relaxed when we come home from lunch and shopping... I agree, but most of it is exhaustion. tee hee

I lost another 2 lbs this week! So, I thought that deserved a new dress. I saw one in a catalog I fell in love with, and ordered it, but its back ordered until June. So I picked out another one that will be shipped next week. I just love spoiling myself like this. I could use a new dress for the conference I'll be working at, as well as my Boston trip. It would be so cool if the back ordered dress came early then I'd have two new dresses for Boston. I didn't do much last night, just relaxed and caught up on Days of Our Lives. I was so tired by the time I got home! This week seemed so long. Not much planned today out of the ordinary. I need to get my butt moving and do my cleaning. Then I'll see if Mom wants to go to lunch and run an errand or two. Have a great FRIDAY!! YAY!!

Good morning everyone! I hope this day finds everyone well. I just finished my 3 for Thursday and my answers are here. I'm so glad its Thursday! YAY! Last work day of the week for me. Its going to be a long one though, I've got to work 11 hrs today. It should go quickly though, because I have a lot to keep my busy. Its snowing! As I was driving to work, I kept seeing little white flakes in my headlights. I hope it will turn to rain, like it did yesterday. We were hit hard, but that's OK because we need the rain. I just love the smell of a rain storm though, so fresh and clean. Mmmm! Well, I better get to work! Have a great day!!

What a crazy Wednesday! I had so many things I needed to do, more things kept cropping up and I had to be gone to my doc appt from 9:15 to 1:30! UGH! I missed my 1:00 meeting, but they said I didn't miss anything. I got x-rayed, ekg'd, poked, and prodded, but it wasn't too bad. I got my first shots today of the "real" clinical trial meds. I've been given a month's worth so I'll give myself the shots again once a week. I don't have to see them again until April 23, unless there's a problem. I asked Dr B about a handicapped parking sticker for when I needed it, and he said I surely qualify so we filled out the paperwork and I'll send it off. YAY! Will make things easier when I'm in a lot of pain. Blaise asked if I was going to write about what Linda's response to my letter was... well, there hasn't been any response. I'm not at all surprised she didn't respond, from how she's acted the past few months. You'd think after 7 years of close friendship it would be different. I'm hurt by all of it, but I need to concentrate on my life, getting well, and on my other friends and loved ones - that's about all I can do. Carry on...

Everyone has a right to their own opinions. I've been taught that and believe that. BUT when opinions cross the line, and threats are made, or people start verbally attacking other people in other nations because of this war, it doesn't seem right. Its causing more fighting, and is making this whole thing worse. Isn't the war bad enough? I hate this war, it breaks my heart and sickens me. Thanks Kat for your post yesterday, it inspired me to say these things. So, let's remember we're all human beings here. We all hate this war. No matter our political opinions or views, people are being killed on all sides. Let's keep the peace as much as we can in our lives. Moving on... there are so many blogs, and websites that I can't access from here at work and its driving me nuts and bananas. So, I hope everyone has a good day! I'll catch up with you all as soon as I can! Happy Hump Day!

I got off work 45 minutes early to go to my general doc to get my weekly iron IV treatment. I got there, 10 mins early or so (traffic was good!) and read my magazine and waited about 20 minutes. Only to find out their iron IV shipment didn't come in. So, I'll call on Thursday to make sure its there, and go in. I wasn't upset, the office is like 5 mins from home, and I got home a few mins early. Today was a pretty good day, I really had a hard time wanting to work. Spring Fever, I guess and I just felt like goofing off a bit. I went to talk to Nicole for a while, and we talked to Dave, who is a total crack up. Those two had me laughing so hard, telling me about some adventures they had at a conference in Boston, as well as a beauty of a prank that was played on Dave. My face and stomach hurt so much from laughing. After a while, we ended up playing pranks on her two cubemates Janna and Chelene. We sabataged Janna's new chair, and messed with Chelene's computer. They of course blamed Nicole, but she told them I helped. tee hee Chelene said she'd forgotten I was a prankster since it had been so long since I played a joke! Look out... I'm baaack ;-). I'm beat so I'm gonna head off now. Toodles!

I can't believe I forgot to write about seeing a couple of really cute flyboys yesterday afternoon. They came into the building looking for the org that used to be here. They were coming in as I was headed out to get something out of my car, so I guess they didn't notice the signs on the door, then wen I came back in, the asked me "Where are we?" I gave them directions to where they wanted to go. I hope I didn't drool. My buddy Randy saw the whole thing, and he had to tease me about it. They were so cute, but so young! I had a pretty good night last night, I had a good talk with a friend online. Then I headed for bed. I got some good sleep for the most part, but kept having naughty dreams. *snicker* Today is looking pretty busy, but I'll try and sneak a break here and there and visit you all. Have a great day!

OMG - what a MONDAY! I was really busy - and I just realized I didn't even post anything today. Shame on me. I am even in a really good mood which is odd for a Monday! I have something - somewhat of an exciting thing on the horizon but I'm not spilling my guts until its planned. This is something I've waited for for a long time now, and now it might happen. I had to get some database stuff done first thing this morning then spent most of the remainder of the day mailing 373 April issues of the defense software mag we publish - to new subscribers as well as people who updated their addresses (it takes a couple of months to get into the regular mailing system). Shanae was a sweetheart and helped me too. Nothing much has happened today, all quiet on this front. I did just get a new leather chair for my desk! Weeeee! Its really comfy. Everyone got one and my boss assembled mine for me. He's one of the few men that I've seen that actually reads instructions. tee hee Have a great night everyone!

Noooo... Monday can't come. It has to stay Sunday for one more day. Its been such a relaxing day. I don't want it to end. I finished the book Ravished, by Virginia Henley. Good book if you like historical romance. I did actually get dressed, well sorta, got in my sweats after my shower. I did get ambitious and went through my closet and tried on 3 pair of jeans that I've been waiting to fit into and they fit and show off my bubble butt. I was so excited that they fit, I did a booty dance. LOL!! Ha, cha, cha... I got rid of 3 pair of jeans, and 4 pair of dressy pants, and about 10 shirts that were too big.

Question of the Week by Sara is up, go play. My answer is on my meme site. I was up early again today, couldn't sleep any more and needed to take my meds (its better to stay on a schedule). I'm just going to take it easy today, maybe finish the book I've been reading. It *finally* got really good last night. Woohoo! Naughty, naughty... surprised I could sleep at all after reading it. *snicker* Its supposed to rain, so I won't be enjoying any lovely sunshine today, but that's OK... I can stay in my PJ's all day if I want too, that's one good thing about rainy Sundays. I got my corporate credit card yesterday in the mail, so I'm ready to travel! Woohoo! It is taking a lot of the pressure off having me put up the money first then being reimbursed. Now I'll use that card for travel and just pay the balance off when I get my reimbursement. I'm going to be working at a conference in Salt Lake at the end of April that my organization sponsors. We'll be working long hours, so we can stay down there in a hotel. Pretty much all my organization goes down and works at one thing or another. I'll be working in one of the "tracks" as they call them - just one of the sessions of speakers. I'll be the one in the back of the room passing out handouts, greeting people as they come in, answering questions, and timing the speakers. Such power, I hold up signs telling them when they've got 10, 5, and 1 minutes left... and of course when they have to STOP and get off the stage. tee hee I've worked the conference before and really have a great time. People are so friendly and the vendor booths are fun to get toys from. There are usually some nice looking men... some in sexy uniforms and others in yummy suits. THEN of course I'm going to BOSTON in May to support a workshop. I hope everyone enjoys their days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One really funny thing that I just remembered. I've had several dreams in the past 5 or 6 months, each different but with symbols that represent betrayl by a close friend. Its all clear now. It got up to 62 degrees today! I got on my shorts, put on a tank top and headed outside. I put a chair on the deck and read for about an hour or so. It felt soooo good. Ahhh, love this weather!

Well, I just finished typing a 4-page letter back to Linda. I asked her to be specific about the things she was accusing me of. Frankly (and I told her this) I think she's grasping at straws as far as the things she accused me of. I explained how I've felt and how her deserting me in my hour of need was really selfish on her part. Anyway, I've e-mailed this monster of a reply. We'll see what she says on Monday after reading it - if she can say anything at all. On to other things - good things. Mom and I went to town yesterday and ran some errands. I had a few things to get at Wal-Mart, and wanted to get my towels and magnets for the exchange I'm participating in. Towels were easy to find, cute magnets were easy to find. BUT trying to find any magnets for the state of Utah proved to be nearly impossible. By the 7th store we went to, we decided we were women on a mission. We were going to find these magnets even if it killed us (tee hee). Finally, store #10 had them. I hope other participants don't have that much trouble finding their state magnets! It was almost fun being on a quest to find these magnets. After we found them, Mom said... "Oh, you should have told me you needed these 2 weeks ago, they had scores of them in the tourist shops in Southern Utah." We both cracked up! Too late! LOL!! Nothing too exciting on the agenda today. I'm going to relax, do some reading, and if I get ambitious, clean out my closet of big clothes, and see what smaller stuff I can fit into. I'm not feeling all that ambitious right now, so maybe tomorrow... Hope everyone has a great day - and thanks for all your support!!

I've briefly mentioned that I've been having trouble with one of my best friends, avoiding me, judging me, getting upset when I don't agree with her advice or opinions, etc., Her name is Linda. She seems to have disappeared. I don't know where the Linda I knew has gone. Many people have asked me what is wrong with her, where the "old Linda" is, and I can't answer because I have no clue. Especially after getting this letter from her today. Hey Karen, I have been keeping my distance because I was afraid to hurt your feelings. I have been biting my tongue to stop from saying things that would jeopardize our friendship. I now realize that by saying nothing and avoiding the situation I am being more hurtful. This is really hard for me to say, I feel like in the recent past you have been using your illness to manipulate me. When I have tried to approach you about concerns with your relationship with Jeff and your health you turn on the tears. I know you don't feel well but I feel like the illness has been your crutch to get what you want. It was disheartening to see you walk down the hall like an 80 year old woman and have people ask me what is wrong with you. I just wanted to grab you by the shoulders and say "buck up", "grow up", "deal with it". I found myself avoiding you because I was afraid once I let loose I wouldn't be able to stop and would forever damage our friendship. I felt like I was always torn between my friendship with you and my friendship with others. Like I had to make a choice, you or them. When I invited other friends to lunch I felt like you were totally ignoring them to the point of being rude to them. I thought as adults we should at least be able to play together without this "I don't like her and I won't go if she does". My god that's something children do...not adults. I love surrounding myself with friends, I don't expect them to be best buddies with each other but I do expect them to be grown up and enjoy the experience of being together. You have put me in a position more than once where I felt like I had to choose. That's not fair, I am upset but mostly with myself for allowing it to happen. As a true friend my job was to point this out and figure out together how we can work through it. But I knew you would start crying and I would feel guilty. I've always said friend should be able to say what's on their mind and not have to walk on eggshells with each other. I haven't felt like I could say these things without you bursting into tears. In addition you used your illness as an excuse for not dealing with carrying on with life. You have completely surrounded yourself in self-pity to the point where I didn't want to see you all crumpled up and complaining about your pain. I know you hurt but you isolated yourself in your pain. Instead of making the best of what health you have and going on you let it consume you. As a friend I should have let you know that people and friends were avoiding you because it was the same thing day after day. I have several friends (one is dying) that lives with pain everyday of their life but you would never know it by looking at them. The only way I know one of them is in pain is by looking in her eyes. She has a smile on her face, her shoulders back and a kind word for everyone she passes. Karen you are a dear friend. You brought out the child in me. You were there when I needed you through emotional and physical upsets in my life. I cherish what we have but I can't let you drain me of energy. I feel like I'm totally drained and a huge black cloud is hanging over my head after a visit with you. You have been so negative and just wouldn't look at the bright side of things. It was almost like you wanted the attention the pain was giving you. But what you don't realize is that you were pushing people away. I'm so sorry I had to write this down instead of talking face to face. I get too emotionally caught up in person and felt like I could be more honest in print. I hope you read and understand this letter with the heart felt love I am writing it with. I would never want to hurt you or destroy our friendship. Love, Linda I'm hurt, I'm shocked that she'd even think these things, and I'm confused. She has the right to feel the way she feels, but honestly I can't see how she can possibly be my friend and think and accuse me of these things. The things she's accusing me of are so ridiculous I almost want to laugh! We've always respected our other friendships - I never just expected her to be my friend, I knew she had other friendships and that was fine and dandy with me. What an ego! I'm far from perfect, but a lot of what she's saying, I have no clue what she's talking about. I will respond, after I've calmed down and collected my thoughts. I have a lot of questions, about when these things happened. Why she's thinking I've used my health issues to manipulate her, I have no idea. Why would I do that?! What would I gain? Tears were because I was in so much pain and so frustrated. Pretty much at the lowest point of my life, she does this. I have to ask myself what kind of friend does that. Another really low point, a few months back when Jeff and I broke up, she went off on me like you wouldn't believe. Saying that I, my life, and my relationship with Jeff was pathetic. Then a few days later she apologizes and said another one of her friends was "draining" her and so she needed someone to unload on. I don't want to jump to any hasty decisions but right now, but I'm wondering if I should even continue a relationship with her. I have felt the past 3 months that my health has inconvenienced her because I haven't been able to go out with her to movies, shopping, etc. How selfish can one person be? When she went through 3 months of hell healthwise, I was there for her every step of the way. If she couldn't go out, I'd go to her house and spend my day off with her. Then she has attached at nice little thing about "girlfriends and how they're supposed to be there for you". What a fucking joke coming from her along with this letter.

Happy Friday I slept in about an hour longer than I'd anticipated today, but it sure felt good! I got on the scale - for the first time in about 2.5 weeks and I've lost another 6 lbs! Still, being sick isn't the way to do it, but as long as I still have weight to lose, it doesn't hurt my feelings a bit. I've eaten breakfast and read a few blogs, while chatting with Colin and Emma on the e-mail. I really need to get my busy and start cleaning or I'll lose all ambition. I've got some errands to run, including finding some Spring kitchen towels and some magnets for the towel and magnet exchange I'm participating in. If you want to join, sign up at the Sis-2-Sis website. Hurry - it starts next week! Have a great day and I'll be around to visit you all later on!

I just got a call from a Fed Ex Rep that I'd never dealt with before, telling me they just found 5 of the documents. Not bad odds out of the 100 that were lost! I couldn't help but giggle... and she asked me what I wanted her to do with them. I said "You can toss them for all I care, I just gave your company a bill for $1238.18 to replace all the materials that were lost." Expensive mistake for them, but I really doubt they even blinked an eye. How sad is that?! No wonder its expensive to ship things, we have to pay for their insurance. Today is going pretty good - I have just over an hour to go. YAY! Our internet is really sucking though, I take little breaks and can't even see the majority of the blogs for some reason. Rude, huh? Oh well, I'll have to catch up tonight or tomorrow. Toodles for now!

3 for Thursday is up, go and play! My answers are in my Meme site. Wow - I got the best news yesterday afternoon, but I didn't want to spoil the surprise for my good friend Colin. I'm going to BOSTON in May!!! I get so see him and his wife, the lovely D. I'll be going for work, to assist in a workshop and will have to sort the details out with my boss about seeing if I can go early (I can save a bundle on airfare if I do). I'm so excited. I just called Colin and gave him the good news... if he and D can put up with me. tee hee I got home last night and had a bit of a tiff with my Mom. I've asked her several times not to discuss my medical issues or anything about my personal life with my sister Kathy. I don't trust her, I don't talk to her (unless absolutely necessary) because she twists everything into something she can use to her advantage, no matter how innocent. She has to cause trouble. Anyway, Mom said that Kathy was concerned about this medication I'm going on next week. She said it was a strong narcotic. Bullshit. There's no way that Kathy (she does have her PhD in pharmacology) would know anything about this medication because its in a clinical trial, and there's nothing on the web about it at all. This medication IS NOT a narcotic. The name may be close to a narcotic or spelled differently, I don't know. Kathy just has to stick her nose in where it doesn't belong. Mom said that Kathy was just concerned about me (RIGHT!), and I told Mom that Kathy needed to concentrate on her own problems and keep her nose out of mine. Kathy has burned too many bridges with me. I didn't mean to hurt Mom's feelings, and I did apologize. I tried to get her to understand why I felt the way I did. I refreshed her memory on a few things, and she finally told me that she understood somewhat, but hated to see her kids distantanced like this. I told her that it may not be forever. Kathy needs to get her mental/emotional problems under control, quit being a liar about everything, get a job (and her lazy husband as well), take care of her precious daughter (instead of pawning her off on Mom and Dad all the time), and move out into their own place and quit dragging everyone in the family down with them when they screw up. Mom couldn't disagree there... Anyhoo... I best get on with my day! Happy Thursday everyone!

Looks like the Fed Ex issue is finally coming to a close. For one thing, the workshop is over and I have found which materials where lost. One box that was received yesterday had some documents (2 docs each for 50 students) in it (supplementary for the workshop) that were wet, and just tossed in the box. Not packed straight, they just threw the docs in box. Nice, huh? So, Fed Ex has to replace all the damaged and lost documents. Kinko's is working on an estimate for me, then re-run the materials and Fed Ex will be entrusted once again - at their cost - to deliver them to the customer and they'll distribute the docs to the attendees. Thank goodness the workshop binders with the slides were in the 3 boxes that did arrive. Although 5 were damaged, and those will be replaced as well. For future reference - anyone who deals with Fed Ex, here's some tips to ensure delivery: 1. Take a copy of the air bill and place it inside the box before taping it up. 2. Write the "to" address in marker on the box as well as the air bill number. 3. Put clear tape over the address and air bill number so if it does get wet, nothing smears. Live and learn... my question is, why doesn't Fed Ex tell people to do this on a regular basis? Wouldn't it save us and THEM a lot of headaches and money? Me thinks it would! Its been a pretty good day all in all. A little less stressful than it has been the first two days. I even had a chance here and there to do some blog hopping! I'm so tired though, and ready to go home. One more work day for me - Yahoo!!