Roonzie's Ramblings

Good bye stranger!

2009-08-28T17:57:00.002-05:00

No reason for the good bye, just a supertramp song that I love. "it's been nice, hope you find your paradise"

How the hell is everyone? I'm incredibly thankful that it is Friday! Whoot! I have the Ma Ha music festival this weekend, in which I will get see Dashboard Confessional, G Love and Special Sauce, and Big Head Todd and the Monsters. Oh yeah.

Work sucked big time today. Our hard drive failed and I lost 8 days of data. So we're in the process of pulling all our paper slips and Rx's to re enter everything in again. Oh the joys of technology on the fritz.

I posted something more heavy and deep in thought over at the OBC. Interesting read, go check it out.

I'm going to walk the dogs, work out, clean up and then do some grilling. I kinda just want to lay low tonight I think.

I start school again next Tuesday. I can hardly contain my excitement. I have a feeling I might be that non trad student that everyone hates. :::sigh:::

My random moment this week happened while browsing through DVD's at Best Buy. I stumbled across the show Thirtysomething. I distinctly remember my parents watching the show. I think I as in late middle school, maybe early high school. Then it dawned on me, I'm now thirtysomething. Holy Shit, where's the Tylenol. Maybe, I should Netflix it and see if I could learn something to make this transition easier.

Later gators!

Friday Yay!

2009-06-05T10:25:00.002-05:00

Thank you Lord! it has been a long stretch this week.

I woke up this morning and decided I wanted to snooze for a bit. I had a perfect breeze coming in the windows and the smell of freshly cut crash. Things were perfect. Cue the sound of an electric saw. My next door neighbor had a chain saw rigged to an extension pole and was cutting down branches. Those of you know me well realize that I can easily sleep through the sound of a saw. I had every intention of doing so, until Ellie started barking, which meant Hank was right behind. The bed is moving dogs are not happy. To make the situation worse my neighbor starts talking to them in between branches. " Oh Ellie, no need to get worked up. Hi Ellie, Hi Hank" I thought Ellie was going to claw through the screen. She totally wigged and that was the end of my sleep in. Some days you can't win.

I have a bunch of stuff to accomplish today, including a trip to Blair. Joy. First a walk for the pups and then I'm going for a run. My legs still hate me but things are getting better.

OOh Better than Ezra ROCKED it on Wednesday. I had no idea they had new material out. So I must add that to my list of things to check out. I also need to check out the new DMB disc as well.

Have a great Friday!

Blah!

2009-06-02T20:34:00.004-05:00

I'm sitting in my office cleaning out emails, working on scheduling and watching Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Multi tasking is my middle name. Go Red Wings! I decided to take a quick break and update my blog a bit.

I have updated the 2009 concerts. I am so stoked about this years Mile High Music Festival. Adding to my excitement, I just learned today that Big Head Todd and the Monsters AND Jack's Mannequin have been added to the festival. Hell yeah.

So I have been making slight changes my day to day routine over the past three months. This week I started running again. And I have to say, my legs hate me right now. I am also going to start biking to work. I've had my bike for two weeks now and I've been riding it at night in and around my neighborhood. I haven't had the balls to try to go to work just yet. There are two pretty significant hills that I'm not looking forward to. I figured it would help me get up and moving in the morning and I would get in some exercise. It is just a bit over a mile one way. So wish me luck.

I also need to figure out when the heck I'm going to use my vacation time this year. So far my trip to Denver is the only thing I have planned. I had wanted to go to Chicago, but it looks like that overlaps with a concert I'm going to be attending. I may just end up taking the time off and sticking around the house. I'm trying to get the second half of my basement finished and I could use the time to work around the house while the contractors worked downstairs.

ooooh, in other random news.......I re financed my house for 4.375%. Definite hell yeah. And I knocked it down to a 15 year instead of 30. I realize now that I am old. I get way to0 excited about saving money on my mortgage.

The College World Series is just around the corner as well. This is the next to last year for good ole Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium. I think I may need to take the entire series off next year for vaca.

I should probably get back to plugging away. I want to get a bunch of stuff done tonight and head to work early tomorrow morning. The Better than Ezra show is tomorrow night so I want to make sure I'm done early tomorrow.

Hola mi amigos!

2009-05-20T10:21:00.003-05:00

No I did not fall off the face of the Earth....a cliff perhaps. Things have just been get out crazy busy around here! I have much to discuss. Concerts, work, the pups, summer trips, movies (Star Trek go watch it now) and new ventures. I plan on devoting a post in the coming days to each of the many topics. One of which will of course be on the season finale of Lost. Holy Hell what an episode!

I've gotta keep this brief. I have to get to two stores today and finalize the support staff schedule for the summer.

But ooooooh summer is finally upon us. Almost lake time!

I leave everyone with the trailer for the re make of V coming to ABC this fall. Anyone else remember this show? Now if they would only do a re make of the War of the Worlds TV show I'd be in heaven! I have been looking forward to this show ever since it was announced. I was happy yet apprehensive to learn they signed on Elizabeth Mitchell from Lost (more on that in another post). But I have to say I'm really psyched up about it after watching the preview clip.

I hope everyone is doing well!

Later gators!

Where the heck did March go?

2009-04-05T18:18:00.002-05:00

Wow! Time seems to fly even when you aren't having any fun! So April is finally here and baseball is in the air. Too bad nothing else related to spring is here. We had a nice snow/sleet storm the past 24 hours. I really can't emphasize this next point enough. I'm sick to death of the dreary cold Midwest winter weather. ugh.

So tonight a few peeps are coming over to my place to watch opening night baseball. Go Braves. I have to chuckle every time I see the commercial preview for the match up. Returning world champion Phillies take on a re loaded Braves. Ha! That's what we're calling it the first month of the season, re loading. I've got a few guesses as to what it will be called in June. And I really hope I'm wrong. Ah the beauty of opening week, where everyone can be at or above .500

It has been a tough but very rewarding Lenten season for me. I have not had any fast food or alcohol since February 23. I'm not going to lie, the first two weeks were BRUTAL. I'm doing really well now though. I'm going to try and keep going with the no fast food thing as long as possible and try to limit my beer consumption to weekends only. I love my micro brews, but dang they account for so many empty calories. I've lost five pounds doing nothing but cutting out alcohol and changing eating habits. My running starts again this week. I didn't want to set myself up to fail completely by doing everything all at once. I'm going to see Jack's Mannequin again on Saturday night, so look out Sokol. My main objective for the night is to not pull a Scott S. and use my dishes as make shift discs for frisbee golf.

I also started guitar lessons in March. I have wanted to learn to play the bass guitar for years now and I finally took the plunge. So far I'm enjoying myself immensely and I've settled into a nightly routine of practicing while catching up on my DVR list. My instructor Hector is pretty cool too. I think when he first met me he thought I'd stick with this for about a week. I need to make plans to go see his band play one of these nights.

Have a great week gang!

Hello.

2009-03-05T18:13:00.004-06:00

Small little blurb of an update. I am now eight days into lent and I feel like a freaking masochist. I mean really, what was I thinking? I had the displeasure of going to my first concert with no frosty beverage to consume while enjoying the show. Don't get me wrong the show was still flipping amazing. I just felt a bit like a meth head surrounded by thousands of boxes of Sudafed. It was freaking everywhere! If anything this has firmed my resolve to make it through the whole 40 days.

In other news I de virginized myself over at the OBC. Go check it out, run don't walk!

Fat Tuesday!

2009-02-24T20:49:00.003-06:00

The Lenten season is upon us again. I can't believe how fast this year is going! Every year I try to give up something that will be challenging and a sacrifice. In years past this has included fast food, candy, and even caffeine. No one panic, I won't be putting anyone through me in full caffeine withdrawl. Not a pretty picture, especially at work. This year I am giving up two things. First, fast food. It's not good for me and I tend to eat it far too often. It is a total lack of organization on my part. It's easy, fast, and virtually everywhere. I need to do a better job of planning and bringing something healthy to work. So today of course I binged on California Taco to hold me over for the next 40 days. LOL!

Secondly, I am giving up alcohol for 40 days. Now, I realize some of you are wondering what kind of lush is she? That's her idea of a sacrifice? No I am not a closet alcoholic. I am however a social butterfly who enjoys hanging out with her friends at every chance and I do love my micro brews. I have a rough day at work and instead of going to the gym I meet up with everyone to vent over a few beers. No more of that. So, I will essentially be happy cab for everyone.

I've started running again and I'm feeling good, so not only will these things be a challenge for me to stick to my guns, but they will be good changes. Changes that I hope to continue after the season is over.

So anyone else making a sacrifice?

Ooooh and I've had a really good idea rolling around for an OBC post since I see we are totally lacking in material. Try to check that out tomorrow.

Later gators!

Brief Update

2009-02-07T12:11:00.002-06:00

Boy, the first week of Feb has just been kicking my ass. Work has been a zoo! I updated the 2009 concerts list and tried to link the artists' website when possible. It is shaping up to be a helluva good year for shows.

Also, going to give a mini shout out to out to a side project I'm involved with. Check out the OBC. There are a few of us who are going to try to keep up this site and make it more of a current events/politics kind of blog. I hope to have something up in a day or two.

It is positively gorgeous outside and I intend to get a lot of errands/work done today. Have a great day gang!

Club Trillion

2009-01-23T10:00:00.003-06:00

Run don't walk and go check out this kids blog, about life views from the end of the bench. Props go out to Quint for directing me to this hilarious blog.

Enjoy and Happy Friday!

The wait is over.....almost.

2009-01-18T23:36:00.002-06:00

Okay, there are no words to explain my excitement. Seriously, NO words. How geeked out am I over Star Trek? Too many magazines, comics, books, movies, videos, hell I even own special edition collecor plates to seal my fate. I saved my ticket from Star Trek the experience so I could frame it. I have a Vulcan live long and prosper pin for my lab coat as well as my pins designating my rank for my lab coat as well. I will probably take May 8th off from work.

Andy even called to tell my about the new trailor. I am giddy with excitement and may not be able to sleep for a few hours.

So now that I have outed myself as a big Trekkie geek, feel free to flame away. I care not. Most of you already know of my love.

Have a fantastic freaking week. My work week will suck and be long, but I have faith, a new Star Trek trailor, and last but not least....LOST returns this week.

Later gators!

Apparently, snoring in my family is not limited to humans

2008-12-30T22:49:00.003-06:00

I did feel a tiny bit guilty for taking pictures AND recording the snoring. Good grief though! I could hear him over the music I had playing. Looks like we have a "snuffy" jr in the family. When I'm working in my office he almost always sleeps under the back side of the chair. One of these days I'll forget he's down there.

Griswold Get Together

2008-12-12T18:35:00.006-06:00

What: Griswold Get Together

When: December 20th 2008 7pm

Where: My place. If you are reading this and wondering where that is, this whole thing might be a bad fit.

Attire: You are strongly encouraged to come dressed as any of the lovable characters from any movie featuring the Giswold clan.

Details: I will be making a Turkey. 50/50 odds it will turn out. If it doesn't we will be enjoying the vodka jello mold and it will tie in nicely with the theme of the night. There will also be side dishes and plenty of Christmas cookies. Beer will also be provided. Any "cup" purchases will be donated to Toys for Tots. DESIGNATED DRIVERS ARE A MUST! Otherwise, prepare to fend for the guest bedroom or one of the couches downstairs.

Hope to see everyone there!

Gimme Gimme a man after midnight.....

2008-12-12T18:00:00.003-06:00

Holy Mary Mother of God, I just discovered the coolest thing ever. Wait for it....

ABBA FREAKING RADIO ON XM!

Yep, that's right. Channel 31 ABBA radio. Andy, let me just say you are damn lucky I had no idea about this channel when we were staffing together. For anyone else working with me look out, everyone is about to get an appreciation for some fine music. I'm telling you I was born too late, I needed to really experience the 70's.

I'm sitting here giddy as all get out working on scheduling, and syncing my new blackberry up. This thing is freaking sweet. Visual voice mail rocks, and I love getting updates on my emails.

Who knew I could enjoy working at 6pm on a Friday. Just give me some ABBA and I'm GOLD!

Ho hum!

2008-12-10T22:43:00.003-06:00

Work was very trying today. Mainly b/c someone pissed in my Wheaties before ten.

Hank is sitting under my feet snoring loud enough to wake the dead. which means when I get up to go to bed he will be bouncing off the walls.

I was able to pick up my phone today. I didn't have time to take it to Verizon and have it activated. That will be priority number one after I get off work tomorrow. Alltel blows and soon I won't have to deal with them anymore! Whoot!

I haven't been sleeping all that well. I think my body is so far down on the exhaustion scale that I'm in more of a zombie like state. My left eyelid was twitching today though so I know I'm close to zonking out. The eye twitch was always my indicator in school for when I had done too many all nighters. Eventually my motto became if I don't know if by midnight I'm not going to....so screw it. I did well with that philosophy.

Later gators!

Grrrr!

2008-12-09T21:06:00.003-06:00

Dammit all to hell! I missed my FedEx delivery today for my new phone! Naturally I work the next two days 9-7pm and will probably not be able to pick up the phone until Friday. I want to to leave Alltel worse than I want the phone. There are no words for how annoyed I am when I'm sitting in my office and I have no cell signal.

I may try to see if I can pick it up tomorrow morning.

Over heard in the pharmacy

2008-12-07T10:51:00.002-06:00

"Well FUCK IT! I'll just stay sick then" Said in response to telling a patient there was nothing over the counter to cure strep throat.

"The price of meth has been going up" Not sure how that topic was started since I was on the phone with an insurance company. I do know you shouldn't be purchasing Sudafed while making those kinds of comments. I really wish I hadn't been on the phone.

MADONNA!

2008-11-19T19:45:00.002-06:00

Madonna was worth every penny! She was in my top five for performers I wanted to see live and she did not disappoint. She was the ultimate concert experience.

It was a very short trip, but it was good to get out of town for a bit. We stayed with Ryan and had a great time! I also took care of my good dead for the day. I had an extra set of tickets that I couldn't sell, worth $180. Our bartender at the Zone was chit chatting with us about our trip, etc. and when it came up that we were in Denver to see Madonna she become really animated. Exact words, "Oh my God! I would LOVE to see her" I told her I had an extra set of tickets and she pretty much said she couldn't afford to pay me face value. We left, but I got her number and told her I might be giving her a call. I really just didn't want the tickets to go to waste. I wanted someone to experience the show as well. So I texted her an hour before the show and told her to meet us at a bar and I'd take whatever she could give me. I made her month.

The first video is my favorite song of the night, Las Isla Bonita. The video is long but worth watching all the way through. If you are impatient, I would recommend skipping forward to 3:55. Second song is an interlude and then turns into four mintues to save the world.

I hope to have more concert info and videos up tomorrow.

Enjoy!

Nebraska Safe Haven Law Part II

2008-11-14T13:09:00.004-06:00

We can't get this law changed quick enough. CNN has now flown in a reporter and done a video piece which you can view here. The latest incident, a father flew his son in from Miami and left him here.

Anyone, have any thoughts? It is sad that there are people in need of help out there and they feel so desperate or don't feel like they have any other options. Very sad.

DIA BLOWS!

2008-11-13T23:11:00.005-06:00

One of the worst traveling experiences at an airport, ever. Read here or here. We were almost the last two people on our plane, and we only made it there b/c Southwest took pity and delayed the original take off time.

I lost track of how long we were standing around waiting for the train. Nothing better than getting through security once, then waiting around for a train that never comes. We were then told to leave the secure area, made to stand in line for an hour, go through security again, attempt to follow the signs posted to catch a shuttle to terminal C, and then finally ask for help and have a woman say, "oh the trains are running again" I could have been arrested. Worst quote of the day, "just a simple malfunction folks" Does a mass of pissed off people as far as the eye can see sound simple? I picked the wrong day to fly hung over.

I have so many concerts to talk about, but it is late and I need my shut eye. Tomorrow, I shall bring all kinds of goodness about Jacks Mannequin, Treaty of Paris, Fun, Madonna, and last but not least NKOTB. Whoot.

Wed Hump Day

2008-11-05T08:49:00.004-06:00

Well, the country made history last night. And no it was not for the most people shown sobbing on camera in a two hour window. I would be interested in that tally though. I couldn't get Josh to sob uncontrollably so I was a bit disappointed. I hope history was made with people voting with their minds and not with their hearts. I truly hope that Obama can bring everything to the table that he has promised throughout this election. We shall see if this will indeed be change. Will he do what he promises? In the end they are both politicians and I hate politicians and trust them about as far as I can throw them. Someday, I'd love to see someone running for president donate all their contributions to the less fortunate. That would get my vote. Although this election did get someone near and dear to me to actually participate in the election process. I consider the inciting texts and his voting turn out a victory. Now we won't have to hear "he's not my president" anymore. Thank god.

I was very very impressed with McCain's speech last night as well. Classy guy and great speech. Today is a new day and he is right, we are all Americans. Sadly, I don't think we will ever be rid of all the bickering and fighting b/t the parties.

Another disappointment, Nebraska has to deal with Mike Johanns again. I think that might have been what put me over the edge as far as my foul mood was concerned last night. The guy is a sleeze bag. Hey, Tom if you give me $10,000 of the STAN associations money when I run for governor I won't forget it. I'll move you up six ranks and put you in charge. I should have just wrote a letter asking what $10,000 would get me and if it would be possible for me to get Col. of the state patrol. And Lee Terry is sadly still with us.

On a side note, I am sick of losing games at home in shuffleboard. Beyond sick of it. I wanted to smack the guy for saying "you're a great little shooter girl" I made some un characteristic mistakes that were costly and we still took both teams we lost to down to the wire. There are no moral victories though and I'm ultra competitive and it pisses me off. That is the bottom line.

Videos, and more videos...

2008-11-03T22:37:00.003-06:00

I have sadly returned to the land of reality and went back to work today. My vacation was much needed. Well, I needed everything except the ass whooping sent the Huskers way on Saturday. I shall post more about the trip to Norman tomorrow. Right now I don't want to make myself nauseous again.

I spent some time searching YouTube for some more videos from the last two concerts I attended. I found five more clips for your viewing pleasure from the STP show in Lincoln. I have been unable to find any from the Toadies show at Sokol. I did however find a clip of my favorite Toadies song from the show in OKC.

And to answer your question Cort, I do have tickets to NKOTB. I know I can hear some of my friends grumbling out there. Yes, it is a guilty teenage pleasure. I still remember seeing them at the state fair in Lincoln. I may have to give the other ticket away to get anyone to go with me. Then again Andy attended the last show so maybe he'd be up for round two? What do you say Andy? I'm also flying back in that day from Denver so it will be a tight squeeze.

STP and Norman Bound!

2008-10-30T10:03:00.003-06:00

Stone Temple Pilots absolutely blew my socks off Tuesday night. They played everything. Andy kept listing off song after song, and they played em all. I have fond memories of driving around in NP with my friends and jamming out to Core. This has been such an amazing year of concerts for me. This will be a tough act of shows to follow next year.

The first video is from the show in Lincoln on Tuesday. The second is a clip from the show at Red Rocks this past summer.

I have a ton of errands to run today. Ted, Josh, and I are heading to Norman for the game this weekend. We are sitting in the northeast end zone above where the Sooners come out onto the field. Watch for us, part of my day includes making a sign for the game. It is another nationally televised game, so lets pray that we don't get blown clear out of the water. The odds of an upset are slim but as a Husker fan I have to believe that we have a chance on any day.

We also have Shuffleboard tonight so if anyone wants to join in the festivities we will be at Harold's most of the night.

Have a great weekend gang!

Nebraska Safe Haven Law

2008-10-29T11:51:00.003-06:00

Thank you Gov. Heineman for FINALLY calling a special session of the state legislature to fix this horrible bill. For those of you living outside of the fine state of Nebraska, we have a safe Haven Law that allows parents to drop off their kids at local hospitals and not face prosecution for child abandonment. The law was intended to protect new born infants. In a stroke of genius our state legislature failed to put an age limit on the children being left.

So far we have had 23 children left at area hospitals. One mother drove all the way from Detroit to leave her son at CU Medical Center. The 23rd child was a 17 y/o left at Bryan LGH in Lincoln. Our legislature is not scheduled to meet until next year and the Governor has cited the high cost of calling a special session as his reason for waiting to amend the law until next year. How much money are we having to spend in social services to handle all these kids? Think of all the therapy involved with a 12 y/o whose mother wanted to relinquish her rights as a parent? The law was intended to help protect children, specifically infants. How letting this go on for months has been in the best interest of any child is beyond me. Won't it be a great story to tell down the road to their own kids someday. "Yeah I remember the time mom drove us all the way to Omaha to leave me. You kids are lucky that I want you"

And we have now made National news with this as there is now a link on CNN.

Toadies Concert

2008-10-24T12:26:00.004-05:00

I am still grinning ear to ear about that show. I was front row dead center, right in front of the lead singer. Got a copy of the set list AND the entire band autographed it for me. The have a new album out that I'm also digging. Personal favorite song is Song I Hate. They actually have the newest disc available to purchase on vinyl. I may have to purchase it and get it framed with my set list. Anyone who has a chance to see the Toadies should definitley go! And the opening band People in Planes, wow. Go check em out! I'm still mulling around the idea of having a separate blog just for music info. With all the shows I go to it wouldn't be a bad idea. Then again it would be one more thing I have to update.....

Next up is Stone Temple Pilots on Tuesday and then Jack's Mannequin!

Ooooh and it is official. I'm on Vaca! Whoot!

Later gators!

New Lost Promo!

2008-10-24T12:15:00.003-05:00

Holy Hell this promo is amazing! Is it wrong to be more excited about the upcoming season of Lost than I am about the holidays?

There are also some great screen caps to check out on DarkUFO as well. Some initial thoughts, it looks as though the island has moved back in time. Is that the Swan hatch Juliet is uncovering? Is Daniel meeting Desmond ( his constant) coming out of the hatch? What sort of vacation do you take a kid on with a gun Kate? Although with Kate that really shouldn't surprise anyone. Is that Yemmi's (Ecko's brother) plane? If the island did indeed move back in time, it supports parallel time lines. Those left behind would be in the wrong time line. The plane wouldn't have even crashed yet if that were the case. Ugh. So many questions!

February can not get here fast enough!

The state of the economy

2008-10-10T13:11:00.003-05:00

Good Lord, could we get some stability on Wall Street please!?!?! I don't know why I bother checking my accounts anymore. I've lost over seven thousand dollars in four days. I can't even stomach to type what I've lost since the start of September. Oh, and did I mention that my financial advisor isn't returning my emails? I hope he didn't have a mental break. This disaster triggered by craptastic lending practices has now gone global. I don't know if we need a better example of how much we are impacted by other parts of the world.

I feel so bad for people who are close to retirement right now. I'm just flat out pissed and frustrated about things, but it isn't like I need the money tomorrow. I'm young and in this for the long haul so I need to sit tight and ride this out. There should be some great investment opportunities once this thing finally bottoms out. I'm just scared that many analysts are saying we haven't hit the bottom yet. We're under 8,000 on the DOW, I'm afraid to ask where the basement on this thing is going to end up being. How many jobs are lost before we stabilize? How many more people lose their homes before the bail out fully takes affect?

At the end of the day I count my blessings and I'm thankful for what I have.

Big boy Hank!

2008-10-09T19:53:00.003-05:00

I need to talk about something light and humorous after the week I've had.

Little Hank-y lifted his leg while taking care of business the other day. And he will probably never do it again after all my cheers of joy. I know he's my dog, but it was so damn cute. He was squatting and all of a sudden he started to lift his right leg up ever so slowly. You could almost follow the thought process going on in his little mind. "Hmm, I don't know why I'm lifting my leg up, but it feels like I should be doing it" Then he cranked his head around to give me the "Duh I know I'm a good boy" look.

One word, priceless. Trust me.

Things you shouldn't do at the pharmacy...

2008-09-26T13:11:00.003-05:00

I should dedicate a whole new blog to this topic. I understand that people tell their hair stylist A LOT of things. However, I think things people do in a pharmacy though are a little known gems for totally inappropriate behavior and comments.

At the top of my list this week is someone buying Sudafed while shouting to someone I assume is his girlfriend, "don't forget the Drano" If he'd had more teeth I might have thought he was joking.

A close second would be the gentleman who was all but having phone sex while I was ringing him out at the register. "Oh no you don't. Girl, girl. Damn girl. You naughty girl. Oooh what I'm gonna do? What's that? Girl your ass gonna get spanked" I mean really? WTF? And to answer every one's dying question, no he was not picking up a script for Viagra. Who talks like that in public? And really how awkward for me to have to ask him if he has any questions about his script?

I may have to add a section to this blog for all the random things I see and hear during the course of my work day.

Have a great Friday gang!

The experiment is over.....

2008-09-21T21:52:00.006-05:00

I mean really over. Dead, done, not to be revisited for another six months. Hank had been doing so well with his potty/house training. I decided to start letting him stay out in the house with Ellie for small periods of time. Each time he did better and better so I started increasing the time. Well, three hours and 30 minutes was the breaking point. He peed twice in my bathroom. Naturally, he can't go on the wood or linoleum floors b/c that would be far too easy for me to clean up.

I figured what the hell I would try one more time. Crucial mistake on my part. Next time the pee was on my bed, soaked all the way through to the mattress. I spent midnight to almost 3am last night trying to clean it up. Needless to say we have re established who the pack leader is in this house and she is not named Hank or Ellie. I also slept by myself, minus the two dogs last night for the first time in weeks. I would love to tell you I slept like a baby but I was too busy trying not to roll over onto one side of the bed while laying on a beach towel.

Oh and the Chiefs suck. I mean really, without a doubt suck. Sucking the soul right out of me trying to watch/listen to them play. Thank god I was at work today and didn't have the visual. Taking out Brady may be the only thing they do this season, and that wasn't done on purpose.

Have a good Monday gang!

Where does the time go?

2008-09-05T16:46:00.004-05:00

Hello again gang! I'm didn't fall off the face of the earth. Close, but still here. This post is going to be all over the place so bear with me.

Things have been hectic as usual. I did manage to squeeze in some fun time at the lake the last few weeks. Work has been both frustrating and incredibly rewarding (more on that in another post). It is a bleak and rainy day here in the big O and both my puppies are sleeping by my feet. Hank is growing like a weed and by mid month I think he will be bigger than Ellie. Scary stuff, he's not even six months yet.

I've also been to some great concerts and have more coming up. The Mile High Music Festival, WOW! I can't accurately describe what it was like to be watching a concert with 50,000 other people. The plan is to go again. Insane stuff! I had GREAT seats for DMB here in Omaha and I saw them perform with Tim Reynolds twice in one week. I consider myself blessed. Flogging Molly, the Faint, and Gaelic Storm rounded out the summer concert series. I absolutely adore the guys in Gaelic Storm. Coming up this fall, Tina Turner, The Toadies, Stone Temple Pilots, Jack's Mannequin and Madonna. I know, I have really random taste in music. I'm all over the place. I'm going to continue keeping track on my blog. It's kinda cool to look back on the year and remember all the great shows.

On a random note I had my eyes dilated this morning. I hate when I have to go through that process. The drops sting as well. Not to mention the fact that it feels somewhat like what I imagine an alien probe to the back of your brain would feel like.

More random, I joined Netflix. I'm diggin it. I have some disorder that prevents me from ever returning a movie on time. No I don't have to and I don't need to leave the house either. Plus, I can get a ton of blue ray selections without paying $30 a pop for them. And I do love my new set up. I'm feeling lazy today, must be the weather. I think I may stay in tonight and watch some movies and get up early and enjoy all that is College Game Day morning. Until Andy moves to his new place I have two big screens set up downstairs, so anyone who wants to overload on football tomorrow give me a call.

I love this time of year. Fall is in the air, baseball and football are in full swing. I can take the dogs for a walk at any time of the day and not worry about them passing out from the heat. Good times.

I leave you with a video from the Flogging Molly Show. I need to point out a few things. First, I was waaaaaaaay to close to the pit for my own liking. In fact for a brief time I was in the pit. I took an elbow to the stomach and the boob. However, not to be walked over I threw my own elbow and moved the hell out of the way. I just don't get moshing. Second, Angie, Josh and I were NOT the oldest people at the show. The 80 y/o man with his 60 something son in a kilt won that award. "This is my dad, he's fucking 80" and "This is my dads fifth show, he's fucking 80" Sorry for the language but it loses something if I say "bleeping" Because literally that is how we were introduced to his dad. Who I might add was also in kilt and a bitchin hat. Just a wild guess but I think alcohol played a part.

Four inches and more

2008-07-16T08:56:00.005-05:00

In all the drama over my work suckage I forgot to mention I cut my hair. I also had a bit of a miscue with the hair cut as well. My hair had been down past the middle of my back. I think my mom was worrying about the Crystal Gail effect. I have only been "trimming" the ends for the past four years. I thought, you know it would be good to take about four inches off. With as long as it was it would be hard to tell to average person. Well, my dear Gina took off more than eight. I blame it on the hormonal swing of just having a baby. It went down something like this....

Me: I can't believe I'm taking four inches off. I haven't done that in years.
Gina: Umm, I took more than four. (While holding up a section of my now detached hair that was around eight inches.

The longest section of my hair is now almost to my shoulders. I'm having a slight identity crisis over the whole thing. Now, it doesn't look bad. In fact, it looks pretty good. I just wasn't ready to part with my hair. I feel a bit like I didn't mentally get ready to part with it. On the plus side, blow drying my hair is no longer an upper body workout. If anyone is curious they can check out a couple pictures I uploaded to Facebook.

Have a great Hump day.

It's 3am and I can't sleep

2008-07-13T02:49:00.004-05:00

So, today (yesterday technically) is my new all time low for my career. I should know by now that when things look like they are going well, it means the whole thing will blow up in my face. I enjoyed exactly one week of solely being a pharmacy supervisor again. Not that I haven't been doing that all along these past few years. I've also been wearing numerous other hats a well. Yes, I'll be a staff pharmacist, pharmacy manager, payroll person, hiring person, firing person, flu shot giver, bitch at me because I do the scheduling person. You get my drift.

So today someone gives their notice and I am once again back to being the jack of all pharmacy trades. And I cried. I never cry. I am not one to be short sighted. I see the big picture, not just today, but what I want to be doing five years from now. The only major problem, my picture seems to be getting farther and farther away. I'm disgusted, mad, pissed, depressed, and I feel totally adrift. The sad thing is I actually understand the reasoning behind having to go to this store. I'm the best person for the job. That almost makes it more difficult. I'm always the team player, even at my own expense. I made no effort to hide my disappointment to my boss. But you know what real life is a bitch and we can't all have it our way.

I had plans for going back to school in the spring. I know, that is a totally separate post. Seven years wasn't enough, I'm looking for more punishment. I've been wanting to go back for some time to work on finishing my undergraduate degree in Spanish and work towards integrating this into my job. So put that on hold, again.

I feel like I'm becoming one of those jaded individuals who never gets excited about anything anymore because I'll always be waiting for the other shoe to drop. I let my guard down and actually let myself get excited about learning something new with my job. Maybe even having some time to myself while I was at it. If I seem withdrawn or cranky this week, just know that I need to mope and deal with this. I'll have to have the best of the best A game to get this store rolling and I need to get this out of my system. And did I mention I need to do all this by Monday?

To finish up my rant. If you tell an employer during an interview that they won't regret hiring you........you're full of shit. And if anyone ever hears that during an interview and they look to good to be true, run the other way. Twenty years in the business and I'm a hundred times better person let alone pharmacist than she is. Maybe I should write my own book? Tenatively titled, "Guess what, you're full of shit and 101 other reasons why you can't hack it as an independent retail pharmacist" Really, I think I could be on to something here. It would save so many people valuable time.

Sorry for the negativiy that is dripping from this post. I needed to talk this thing out. I think I can sleep now.

Stormy Summer

2008-07-09T12:52:00.003-05:00

The Midwest has just been getting slammed this summer. Already, we have had a tornado in Millard, another tornado that took out a boy scouts camp not far outside Omaha, and a storm that brought "straight line winds" with hurricane force. I was really lucky I did not sustain any damage worse than a few downed tree limbs. Others in my neighborhood were not as lucky. I was without power for a little over a day. Nothing to complain about considering some people were without power for a week.

We headed to Bambino's to drink and converse with others without power. It was hilarious. Flashlights and candles and a flash light was a must for anyone using the restrooms. Anyone reading this familiar with Shawn of the Dead? Well, Bambino's was our Winchester. As one man said, "Look, more survivors" LOL!

The Olympic swim trials were in town this past week. Wow! I was blown away by the Qwest center crowd. I saw Phelps and Hoff each break the World record in their event. I have never heard the Qwest center so loud. I also saw Bob Costas. He was literally 15 feet from me. On the live coverage we were sitting just off screen. Kind of cool. I think I might be taller than him too!

The puppies are doing great! Hank is now joining Ellie at Doggie Day Care. Its worth every penny when they crash and sleep hard at night. Speaking of Hank, he will be getting "fixed" on Friday. Poor guy, he has no idea what is coming. I hate that I have to leave him there over night. I'll keep everyone updated on his recovery.

The fourth rocked. We headed out to the lake and had a very relaxing day on the water. Nothing better than floating on the water and having a few cold ones. The dogs survived the fireworks, but not without the help of valium. I'm a firm believer in drugging the dogs for the fourth now.

The Roger Clyne show is tomorrow night. I'm way excited. I had the opportunity to meet Roger after the last show. The guy is a class act. I'm also just a little over a week away from my trip to Colorado. Whoo Hoo!

Well, I should stop blogging and get back to writing the August schedule. Have I mentioned that I loathe doing the scheduling? Primarily because it always seems to take forever. Second, no one is every pleased. I had been working on it for two hours when I took this break. After two hours I only have two stores and three vacation requests complete. ugh. Here come the other three.

Happy Hump Day gang!

This town....otherwise known as Omaha

2008-06-23T20:45:00.004-05:00

Great song and video by O.A.R, shot in the old Market in downtown Omaha. This is the song for this years CWS! Great fit for the NCAA, the CWS, and Omaha!

My streak of not missing a CWS remains intact. And I have a nice red stripe down my legs to show for it too!

Catching up!

2008-06-20T08:13:00.002-05:00

Can anyone believe it is the 20th of June?!? My apologies for neglecting the blog. Real life has been kicking me in the butt non stop for a few weeks.

Work has been crazy. New people, training, scheduling, and staffing. I hope I have some more breathing room in July. Which should be the case. I think I will be able to remove myself from staffing. I'm also taking a few days of vacation in July! Whoo!

My landscaping is almost complete in the backyard. I will try to upload pictures soon. I could go out there and take a picture now but I'm in my pj's and going out back is now a process with little Hank. The only thing left to do is cement the area under the deck. Which is otherwise known as the breeding ground for nasty spiders. It is also my dogs' favorite place to dig and bury bones. Lovely, I know.

Speaking of Hank, he is doing great. He is a stink pot but he has the most loving disposition. Ellie is finally warming up to him and they are great play buddies. He is much more lovey than Ellie was at this age. Ellie would let you know when she wanted some love which was usually only at bed time or in the vets office. Hank will take hugs any time. I've got to keep a good eye on him in the yard now though. I had a flower casualty on day one of my new landscaping. Those darn bulbs are just too tempting for the boy. Potty training is also going well. We aren't 100% there yet, but we are definitely farther ahead with the second time around. We've also bee getting up in the morning around 5:30am. Anyone who knows me knows this is not ideal hours for me to keep. I'm warming up to it though. Next week I am going to start running after I let them out in the morning.

My tv downstairs is on its last leg. I had Aksarban tv pick it up to diagnosis the problem. I wish I had just left it alone. The thing is seven years old and will be pricey to repair. So of course I saw this as the green light to redo my entertainment center downstairs...completely. How could I say no to two year financing? The Mart has also pissed me off for the final time. I will be buying all my electronics from here on out at Best Buy. The tv revolution will be complete on Tuesday. If no one sees me for a few days just stop by the house and I'm sure you'll find me camped out in front of the tv with a glossy look in my eyes.

The Sister Hazel show is this weekend and I'm definitely jazzed. I'm going to try and fit a baseball game in this weekend as well. If I don't get down there it will be the first time in almost ten years that I missed a CWS game. Speaking of the CWS, anyone else loathe the new schedule?

Okay, I need to hop in the shower and head to work. Hank is also running around the living room with a magazine cover in his mouth. Seriously, give him his bed or a piece of paper and he is entertained for hours. Of course, the paper thing sort of re enforces bad behavior so that is a no no. Which is unfortunate because how cost effective would that be?

Kudos Omaha!

2008-05-31T12:39:00.003-05:00

Finally, some respect for the big O! Kiplingers lists Omaha as the number three place to live in the country. Now I realize not everyone is going to agree with this ranking, but they do lay out their criteria and essentially the formula they used to come up with their rankings. I think the big thing to take away from this is that there is a lot to be jazzed about here in Omaha and it is nice to get some accolades from outside the state. I've lived here since 1994 (wow, that is ridiculous to type and say outloud) and this is HOME! I can't imagine living somewhere else. I love to travel, but Omaha is where I call HOME!

Meet Hank!

2008-05-17T17:44:00.003-05:00

Yes, I may need my head checked. I have always wanted two dogs. I definitely wanted a companion for Ellie. Hank is literally her little brother. I was able to go with the same breeder and get the same parents. They look quite a lot alike and the mannerisms they share is quite uncanny. I won't say things have been easy over the past two days, but things are definitely much smoother the second time around. I've got my fingers crossed hoping he will be potty trained quicker than Ellie was.

I had three names in mind. Boone, Hank, and Hutch. I have no idea where I came up with Boone, I just like the name. Hank is after Henry (Hank) Aaron the true King of home runs. Hutch is after one of my favorite patients at work. No one outside of work seemed to like Hutch and my brother claims that everyone thought Boone was too red neck. So not wanting my dog to be harassed by Andy and all his buds for life I went with Hank.

It does make me want to break into song....

2008-04-22T22:01:00.002-05:00

There is so much to love about this commercial. I'm sure most of you guys have seen it, if not enjoy for the first time. I read on someone's blog, "if this doesn't make you smile, not much will" Word.

Anymore, I find myself watching only Discovery or A&E. So I LOVE this commercial.

Code 14 J

2008-04-21T20:39:00.002-05:00

Another sneak peak......

I would post more here but I'm tired AND hungry. I had myself quite the b-day weekend. Or should I say it was quite the "marathon" on Saturday. I finished the race but it wasn't necessarily pretty. I will however say this, we need our own bar code lingo. I will give an example.

MTS 1, rough translation me + tequila + shot + 1 times. MJB 2, me jaeger bomb two times. Also short code for stupidity around the corner and everyone should stop buying me shots for my b-day.

I was up and at em on Sunday. Pure inertia kept me going. I slept very well once I was able to fall asleep on Sunday. I know its ridiculous. I went so far down on the exhaustion scale that by the time I was able to sleep I had difficulty falling asleep. I was the poster child for Ambien last night. Too bad I didn't have any.

Have a great week gang!

New Lost Promo's

2008-04-11T12:13:00.002-05:00

I give you two more preview clips for upcoming lost episode number nine, the shape of things to come.

Oh, it is going to be a long two weeks.

Validation!

2008-04-02T17:48:00.003-06:00

So, I have what some may call a slight obsession with shoes. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, me some shoes. A rather large subset of this obsession is sneakers, blue ones in particular. I'm the type of person that will buy a pair of shoes and build the outfit around the shoes. Hmmm, I don't have anything that matches these shoes....yet. I still remember being such a tomboy in middle school and I was the envy of most all the boys in my class because I had the new bo jackson cross trainers. Yes, I know. I dated myself quite badly there.

So imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon this GEM.

Play Ball!

2008-03-31T20:57:00.002-06:00

FINALLY! Opening day has arrived. Of course I was working, but ah well. Life is still good. I've got the MLB package and my XM radio running. I can have baseball non-stop. This is far and away my favorite time of year. Spring isn't quite in the air yet around here, but its getting closer.

Blue Man group was phenomenal last night. The highlight of the night for me was easily the opening act Mike Relm. Run don't walk to go and check him out. He controls both the audio AND video LIVE!

Here are a few clips.

The third video is a bit long but still worth watching.

I'm trying to keep with my go to bed early theme during the week so I'm going to keep this short. Plus, I have to get up earlier enough to figure out an alternate route to Bellevue tomorrow since the most direct route will be closed for the next two freaking months.

A couple reviews

2008-03-19T09:54:00.005-06:00

I've been so busy with work lately I forgot to post about the last two shows I attended.

First, Mamma Mia. It is no huge secret for those who know me well that I am an avid ABBA fan. I won't go into the laundry list of cd's and dvd's that I own. I had such a great time at the show. The icing on the cake for me was they played my favorite song last. If Beckie and Lisa are reading this they definitely know which song that is. I played it every morning without fail. I think Beckie once said, "could you just play any of their other songs in the morning" Well, I could and I did sometimes, but I always had to start my day off on the right foot and play my song.

I have serious boot envy going on when I watch this video. Love, love the silver boots. Not only are they fabulous and shiny but they would give me a good four extra inches. The surprising thing is the outfits in this video are tame compared to some of the others I've seen.

Next up was the Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band show! We were up in the nose bleeds dancing away. I could have cared less, the sound was amazing.

Check out this link for a set list and brief review of the show. Scroll down about three shows for the Omaha list. I couldn't find any videos from the Omaha show. This clip is from the show before at Nassau I believe. The sound isn't the greatest but its the energy of that is amazing.

WOW!

2008-03-19T00:48:00.005-06:00

I can't tell you how amazing the game was tonight. The Jay's were out sized, shooting like hell, and the ref's were the worst I'd seen in a while. Now, I did DVR the game tonight so I will with hold final judgement on the officiating until I see the game on tv. I am so proud of the team tonight. They trailed all night except for approximately ten seconds. They never gave up. Great game, great atmosphere, helluva good time.

KC Trip!

2008-03-14T14:47:00.002-06:00

I've been trying for a while now to get a trip to KC together. I've only been down there the past few years for DMB shows, stay for the concert leave the next day type of thing. Or the ill fated Big Twelve Championship game a couple years ago. I don't think I need to go into details. So this is what I propose this year.

Leave after everyone gets off work on August 1st (which is a Friday) or early Saturday morning. Head to KC. The White Sox are in town battling the Royals. There are games on Friday night, Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. We can hit Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun. Spend a night downtown at the Plaza or Westport. I would also like to stay through Tuesday. Why? Because the BoSox are in town Monday through Wednesday. We could catch the Monday night game and head back to Omaha Tuesday.

What do you think? We could make a great weekend trip with little time off form work. Call, email me, or post a comment if you're interested and I can start planning to purchase tickets, ect.

Keeping the faith and all kinds of poop

2008-03-12T20:11:00.004-06:00

You know, karma is a real bitch. And one day I'm going to reap the benefits of taking the high road and being the better person. I may be in my geriatric days before it ever happens but dammit I'll wait. And if someone/something looks too good to be true.......they are.

And that is the end of my negative nellie attitude for the day.

Ellie and I took a walk tonight and she did sooooooooo good. She's pulling much less and she's finally making the connection b/t pulling and choking herself. Now we need to work on how to keep her brain from short circuiting when she sees a squirrel. She has started "stalking" them from inside the house.

And speaking of Ellie, I know I kept you all hanging from last week with my "shitscicle" comment. Ellie has many nicknames, she responds immediately to Pooper. I started calling her this when I was trying to house train her and she would run downstairs and poop. The funny part about it..... Andy was living in my basement at the time and she would always take care of business in front of his bedroom door. And on a couple of occasions on his bed.

Well, my little pooper is living up to her nickname. There is crap everywhere out back. The snow has finally melted in 95% of the yard. There is no way during the dead of winter I'm going to try and pick up poop that is sinking straight to the bottom of the snow. The downside to this strategy was evident today when I spent an hour picking it all up. An hour. My poop scoop also broke. Yes, thats right. It was getting so much use today it just flat out died. She was looking at me as if to say, "you know that's my poop right? why would you collect it" She even took care of business while I was picking it up. The good news is she is very particular about where she takes care of business. Only on the outer edge of the fence and she leaves a good foot on the other side b/t her and the fence so she can exit the area without walking through it. Smart girl. Unlike someone I know who has a dog that poops two inches from the steps. Now on to the "shitscicle"

Last week I tried to take care of this but the entire back of the yard was ice and literally I could see it but couldn't get to it. I also slipped on it and nearly had a heart attack. No, I did not fall in dog doo. It was a close call though.

I know, you were all dying to hear me blog about poop. Moral to this story...There is shit everywhere in life and its unpleasant to deal with any of it. Keep your head up and get through the shit and better times will come. But I'd rather pick it up in the backyard.

Not the weekend yet.....

2008-03-04T22:18:00.002-06:00

It's only Tuesday and I'm wiped out. I need to start going to bed much earlier. Which is why I will not still be up posting and checking email after 10:30pm. No exceptions.

So I've been venturing into the world of facebook a bit. My near and dear friend Lisa got me started on the whole thing. I don't have any fancy bells and whistles on my account. Just the basics. I have a hard enough time updating this thing. I don't need to get sucked into the online world of facebook. And I still hold firm and refuse to join Myspace. Although, with facebook it is nice to give a quick shout to friends and family. And who knew I had so many family members using this new fangled technology? Well, three really shouldn't be called many, but I don't get the chance to talk with them often so it feels like so much more.

Okay, in order to keep my firm deadline of 10:30pm I need to cut this short. Tune in tomorrow however for my horrendous story about a girl who wandered into a land not so far away called "shitsville" and nearly slipped and fell on a a "shitscicle" Yes, I know.....language. I'll warn you all to put your kiddie blinders on for the post tomorrow.

Sleep tight everyone!

Exhausted!

2008-03-03T22:45:00.003-06:00

What a long, long, oh so long day. I've got to get up early again, and attempt to get more done than I did today. Monday's are always a crap shoot. We're so freaking busy just trying to keep up with work flow that its nearly impossible to get other stuff done.

Work story for the day. I did not expect a 70 something woman to pull down her britches to show me the rash that was in the vicinity of her groin. More unexpected was the fact that she wasn't wearing any underwear. Priceless was the look on her friends face. I bet she wasn't banking on that show when she agreed to take her to the store. Ah yes, geriatric modesty at its finest. "I had no idea it was that bad" No idea indeed lady. I'm telling you, I could be one helluva poker player if I can keep a straight face through that. She was pissed the doctor hadn't given her a script for "an itch cream" and was ready to walk away without the pills he prescribed. Lordy. The guy behind the two of them was trying real hard not to listen and he was looking everywhere but at her once the pants started to come down. When she's shouting "look at this" with her pants half down no patient privacy sign stands a flipping chance. You can stand back there behind the sign but privacy left the building. Along with a few more years of my life.

On the upside of things she was oh so pleased that after giving her fine patient counseling I also finished writing out her check for her AND I had also written it into the register. "Oh you're such a good young girl" Rough translation, she's anal retentive about her checkbook like I am. I try, but really lets think about carbon copy checks just in case not every girl is as "nice" as I am.

So to all my family and friends, when you wonder why I seem so impatient or irritated with you for the littlest thing, remember that I used 99.9% of my patience up at work. Its also possible that I've seen something that could give me nightmares.

The quest for just one pint!

2008-03-02T22:19:00.006-06:00

"The one, the one, don't go for the one" I had a fabulous few days of concerts. I was due for some fun. I had come down with the flu last week and felt like the underside of shoe with dog poop on it. More on that later.

First up on Thursday was Gaelic Storm. I was mighty impressed. I even bought their CD, and frankly I can't remember the last time I actually bought a CD. If Irish music isn't your cup of tea this band probably isn't for you. I however had a BLAST!

Here is the one of the videos Josh took from the show.

And my favorite song of the evening Don't go for the one. Josh was having a hella good time singing as well ;-).

Next up was the They Might Be Giants show with Oppenheimer. And no, I don't mean the investment group. Oppenheimer is a two man show and WOW! They can definitely rock it.
The down side to the show was there was absolutely NO video. So I'm linking one of their music videos from youtube.

And last but not least we have A Birdhouse in your Soul. I have wanted to see these guys for ages. Someone was able to capture a great video at the Omaha show!

And a kick ass guitar solo that leads into Istanbul from the show in Madison.

These shows were all at the Slowdown in downtown Omaha. I hope they continue to book great shows. We capped off the night by heading to Old Chicago and according to Andy we "never go anywhere fun" but we managed to get by.

Well, I'm currently up waiting for my last load of laundry to finish up. I've got big day at work tomorrow. I want to get up and at em early. I'll save the rest of my ramblings for later this week.

Good eye sniper!

2008-02-13T22:48:00.002-06:00

WOW! The show last night was amazing! Coheed and Cambria lived up to every expectation! Amazing sound! I was impressed with Linkin Park's perfomance. I'm not a huge fan but I had myself one hella good time.

Angels we have heard on high!

2008-02-08T01:39:00.000-06:00

Holy Mary Mother of God! Andy actually posted on my blog. I am beyond thrilled! I know I give you shit pile upon shit pile, but I love you mostest dear brother. I'm glad I have finally joined the heirarchy of cool in your book. Stop by more often. You are often fodder for my blog. Ha!

Love ya and call me after you've caught up on Lost!

Oh and everyone give Andy, not with an i, a big hug and round of applause!

Sharing my pain

2008-02-02T13:47:00.000-06:00

Please check out this post from the Angry Pharmacist. I find it amusing that it was just a few days after my little rant about the first of the year. We all must be reaching our threshold for rude at the same time. I always feel so much better after reading one of his posts.

Enjoy.

Chaos and my life

2008-02-01T23:12:00.000-06:00

My picture is right there next to the definition. So today I totally effe'd up my work schedule. So the end result was I showed up an hour late to work. Lovely start to the first day of the month. Also referred to today as Narcotic Friday. I have one of these screw ups once a year. Looks like I got this one out of the way early this year. To complicate things further we have a pharmacist about to pop a baby out any minute now. She's working up until the moment her water breaks. This means there are four of us who are in a holding pattern with our schedules. All four of us have two schedules for February and March. That is of course until I receive word that the she's on her way to the hospital. Then I'll get on the bat phone and call a code maternity and shift everyone's schedule upside down. So I transposed the wrong pharmacist shift for today onto the maternity schedule, hence the screw up, and no one at the store. I loooooooooved working without the benefit of a shower this morning. I'm too tired to go out or do anything tonight. I've already taken a mini nap and Ellie is still giving me the stink eye.

In other news, I met one of my New Years goals and made some changes with my bank accounts. This led to a conversation with my mother the other day. I was telling her how organized I felt and relieved to get these things in order. The next thing she says is something along the lines of not wanting to freak me out. She tells me I need to have a will in place. Yeah, bit awkward. She does have a point though. This led to the hilarious conversation about my parents will. Apparently they haven't updated theirs since before Andy was born. He is 28. I laughed my ass off. I've always told him he wasn't in the will. Technically, his name isn't. Of course, I will probably start referring to him as "any subsequent children" from here on out. Sub for short. Yes mom, I know I have a big mouth. Honestly, it is just to funny to pass up and I hear Andy put it up on his myspace page.

In other pharmacy news, I have a "cousin Eddie" Rph. You know cousin Eddie from Christmas vacation. I want everyone to try and remember the part of the movie with the squirrel running around in the house and Clark saying "Where is Eddie when you need him? Doesn't he eat these things?" I will refer to this indivdual as Rph to protect his identity. Although, I'm sure he could care less. Rph has a squirrel problem in his backyard. He became frustrated to the point that he resorted to using a pellet gun to solve his problems. Unfortunatley, instead of teaching the squirrel a lesson and scaring him off, he taught the other squirrels one of life's most important lessons. Death, dying and not screwing with the bird feeder. Yep, killed the little sucker. So he's on his way out to dipose of the little guy and suddenly a light bulb goes off somewhere upstairs.

Rph remembers reading somewhere about squirrel meat being very lean and tender. The guy is an avid hunter and has some hunters cook book with a recipe for squirrel. So you can all see where this is going. Yep, skinned it, cooked it, and ate the thing. Apparently, it tastes like rattlesnake. I know, it probably isn't a good comparison for anyone other than him. Unless of course rattlesnake tastes like chicken. I am beyond disgusted as my brother tells me this story. You may as well kill a rat and eat that too. Ugh. I plan on telling him to be careful the next time I see him. Why? Because I hear squirrels are high in cholesterol content.

Lost mobisode 13, So It Begins

2008-01-28T21:41:00.001-06:00

I have no words for how genius this one is!!! Enjoy and let the countdown begin......

Many thanks again to DarkUFO and all those who continue to make it a kick ass site!

Lost Sneak Peak!

2008-01-25T14:04:00.000-06:00

From E Online and DarkUFO, new video clips for Lost Season 4. Am I the only one who is just ridiculously excited for next week?

More mobisode goodness

2008-01-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

I can't say it enough. Get over to DarkUFO and check out all of the mobisodes. Some are more heavy hitting than others but I have still enjoyed all of them. I'll take my fix wherever I can find it these days.

And the jaw dropper, for me anyhow, Room 23.

Hello 2008!

2008-01-16T10:17:00.001-06:00

Wow! It has been forever since I posted something on here. I haven't had much positive news, or so I thought. So I have avoided being a negative Nellie. Until now, my cup runneth over.

The beginning of the new year is also known to those of us in the retail pharmacy business as HELL ON EARTH. It has been 16 days of.... I've never paid that much EVER! Why did my co pay go up? DEDUCTIBLE? What do you mean DEDUCTIBLE? Why isn't it four dollars? Aren't ALL Generics $4? At Wal-Mart they are. No I don't have a new insurance card. We get this ALL DAY EVERY DAY. On top of that I had a pharmacist quit two weeks before Christmas and he gave me exactly two weeks notice. If any PharmD candidates are reading this, it is NOT professional courtesy in our profession to give two weeks notice. Your employer will not place an ad, conduct interviews, get someone hired, AND train them in two weeks. Professional courtesy is 4 weeks, nothing less. This is important information and it might just save your life one day. I really did want to squeeze the life out of him with my bare hands. No worries though, he went to Walgreens, and I hear they hire anyone with a pulse and a license.

Now we were able to get some part time pharmacists hired. It is far from perfect because they are still learning our system. I can say this though, things are so much improved from where we were the past two years. Night and day. And 2008 is only going to get better.

I did make a few resolutions this year. I always hesitate to get too crazy with New years Resolutions. Sometimes I think its just setting ourselves up for failure. So far so good though. So here is my failure....err resolution list.

Work out consistently. Nothing is worse than working out for a few months and then stopping. The pain your body goes through. Every time I'm berating myself for the pain I'm in.

Tying in with working out more is eating less fast food and losing some weight. This requires me to be organized and actually put something together and take to work.

Drinking less. This is tough to do during Shuffleboard season. I know I can hear some of you laughing. But really, shuffleboard does require a frosty beverage. We have two more weeks left. Work can leave me very very frazzled and I need to have a better outlet for my stress than meeting up with everyone at the bar. Not that I don't enjoy that, I enjoy it too much.

Doing better with financial planning. I bought Microsoft money and I'm totally organized at this point. I received my year end credit card statement and it is scary the amount of money I spent on complete crap. My credit cards will be paid off in three months and I am going to attempt to keep them at zero balances for the rest of the year. Remember the word failure.

Getting up earlier in the morning. This is going to be the toughest of them all. Those who know me well know I love my sleep. It might be my favorite part of the day. I'm not a happy camper in the mornings. Unless of course you're Ellie. Then I'm the worlds best snuggler. And how can I be angry with a wagging tail while she's still laying down looking at me.

So now that I have put all of this in writing I hope my chances for success with be higher.

Von Maur Re Opens

2007-12-21T11:45:00.001-06:00

Von Maur reopened yesterday, fifteen days after the deadly shooting spree. I was a bit surprised they re opened before Christmas but I am glad to see them trying to move forward. I was thrilled to see so many people turned out to show their support. I can't imagine how incredibly difficult it must be for those store employees to return to work. In this day and age of news broadcasting its incredibly easy to get sensory overload on these kinds of events. The chilling 911 calls with sounds of gunfire in the background, the images of people fleeing the store. All of these things make it that much more difficult. I plan on going to Westroads and Von Maur today. I haven't been to the mall since this happened. I need to go there to support those employees and I need to do it for myself. We can't let some deranged madman define how we live. Thanks for all the kind words for those of you who called, emailed, or left comments here.

Lost returns Jauary 31st 2008!

2007-12-18T11:06:00.000-06:00

Check out the latest gem from over at DarkUFO.....

Holy hell this looks good! You should also head over to the trailer section of Dark's website to check out the mobisodes. The mobisode Room 23 definitely made my jaw drop.

Trans Siberian Orchestra rocks out to Carl Orff!

2007-12-13T01:52:00.000-06:00

Trans Siberian Orchestra, can I hear a huge whoo hoo? I LOVE LOVE his work. Here are clips for the highlight of my night at this show. Very similar performance in Omaha. I will post more on my craptastic day and a review of this week later! At least I had a blast with Josh and Angie at the show! Enjoy!

And one more with a little bit more detail and better sound. Can't see the light show as well though.

And for Angie, b/c the girl next to her had ear plugs in AND covered her ears. And still no signs of life, even through this song.

Finally, any band that rocks out with a bitchin hot pink electric violin is good by me. Check out Anna Phoebe.

Westroads Shooting

2007-12-05T16:51:00.000-06:00

I am completely stunned and freaked out. You never ever imagine this kind of thing happening in your town. Westroads is two minutes from my house. I'm there all the time. Totally random violence. And some of these reporters need to take some sensitivity training. Yes, ask someone who just witnessed multiple people getting shot and killed if they can make any sense of the situation while she's sobbing.

Christmas came early this year

2007-12-04T17:31:00.001-06:00

A warm welcome back to Nebraska for the Pelini family! I can't believe in all the excitement the past few days I forgot to post about the biggest story of them all!

From the Omaha World Herald,

Go Big RED!

Showtime

2007-12-02T22:57:00.000-06:00

If you aren't watching any of the Showtime original series...........stop what you are doing and get your hands on some of these episodes! Itunes, amazonUnBox, or get a subscription. I don't watch a damn thing on Cinemax and HBO has left me longing for more lately. I am completely hooked on Weeds, Brotherhood, and Dexter. Dexter has me on the edge of my seat every Sunday! I was hesitant to see Michael C. Hall after Six Feet Under, but he is doing an amazing job as Dexter Morgan. Brotherhood is everything the Soprano's should have been. And the entire cast is amazing! I have only seen a handful of episodes from the Tudors but I plan to catch up this spring. Last but not least it is great to see David Duchovny back! Californication had me busting a gut on more than one occasion. And to top things off the ad's are freaking brilliant.

Check it out, the best shit on television. Warning, strong language and adult situations ahead!

Odds and Ends

2007-11-30T12:30:00.000-06:00

First, I am getting my Christmas decorations up today. No ifs ands or buts about it. Last year I don't think I got around to putting the tree up until half way through December.

Ellie and I are getting ready to go for a walk. We both slept in today and she is napping again. Long week for both of us.

I have my last flu shot clinic today. Whew! That was a looooooooong stretch. I received a great compliment this week from one of our long standing customers. She said that things run so much better when I'm back. She also mentioned that it was good to see someone who wasn't frazzled back there. She's right. We have to set the tone and people feed off that tone. If I'm stressed it trickles down to everyone else. Now that's not to say I don't cuss like a sailor under my breath to help keep my calm cool and collected appearance in check. One of our employee's once said they thought my boss and I strive on chaos. She re enforces our answer, we don't strive on it, we just deal with it really well. Retail pharmacy is a lot of things but predictable isn't one of them.

Earlier this week I called one of our customers to remind him he had a medicine ready to be picked up. He's 98. When I called he said, "Hey baby whats going on at the pharmacy" This is also the same man who told me I needed to wear more make up at work so I could find a man. I responded that I didn't' think my boss would think to0 highly of me trying to pick up men at work. He said he'd call him up and get it okay'd. LOL! He also said not to worry all the good looking girls find rich men and I had no need to worry. Oh he is a hoot.

Yesterday, another one of our customers was moved to hospice care. I almost cried. She called me on Wednesday night to get a script filled for her husband. She's worried about who will take care of his meds while she's gone. They've been married over 60 years. I can't even imagine. She's finally to the point where he can't take care of her anymore. I told her to write my number down on a card and to call if she needed to talk. "Oh I don't need a card I have it in my head" She usually calls at least once a day. Easily the lowest point of the week for me.

Finally, I give you something from my childhood. Minden, NE the Christmas City. Check out the link. I have some memories of freezing my ass off out there watching the pageant. I had no idea the court house was listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

It's going to be a long work weekend and Monday is definitley going to suck. So I hope everyone has a great weekend. Think of me working away.

In other news.....

2007-11-16T10:03:00.000-06:00

Barry Bonds is indicted. Holy mamma! Five charges carrying a total of 30 years in prison and a 1 million dollar fine. Looks like whether or not the ball ends up in the Hall of Fame with an asterisk is the least of his concerns right now.

A-Rod resigns with the Yankees. Blah, blah, blah! I'm still looking for the right words to fully encompass my disgust for him.

Arizona upsets Oregon. The fans stormed the field. It was crazy and looked like one helluva good time. I had so hoped our Huskers would have one of those moments this year.

Dear, dear Katy how I have missed thee!

2007-11-16T09:39:00.000-06:00

First things first. WARNING! Strong language and adult situations contained in the following video link. Put the ear muffs on the kids and make sure you have the volume turned waaaaay down if you are listening in at work. Now on to the juicy stuff.

Its no secret that Nebraska fans have been suffering through one of the worst seasons in recent memory. Hell, in my lifetime. The debacle two weeks ago that was supposed to be KU vs NU will unfortunately leave a bad taste in my mouth until the day I die. The video here is made by a Jay Hawk fan and one of the main stars is a very dear friend from high school. Oh the trouble Katy and I managed to get ourselves into. We played competitive softball together and traveled across many states and pissed off many. She was the queen of talking shit from right field to the opposing teams bench and then yelling at me playing second base "ain't that right seven" Its easier to run your mouth when you can't see the whites of their eyes. Although, with Katy it wouldn't have made much difference. There were even a couple fights and an issue with a girl using her cleats inappropriately while sliding into second. And one time I had the unfortunate luck of being the recipient of a kick to the nose meant for her sister. Oh good times.

Katie and I have lost touch over the years so this video totally came out of the blue. My brother heard a clip from the video on unsportsmanlike conduct yesterday. So without more reminiscing and warm fuzzies from the early nineties I give you this gem. And people thought I handled the loss badly. Way to represent NPHS class of '94 Katy. And to all you men out there, I have no idea who Nikki is. Apparently, she did her part that day.

Hey Andy

2007-11-06T23:54:00.001-06:00

I know you don't read anything on here. Thanks for being paranoid for me.

I still love you though.

Bambinos

2007-11-06T23:48:00.001-06:00

Seven.............to two. Chris and I finally showed up.

Whoo!

Happy Howl-O-Ween

2007-10-31T21:14:00.000-06:00

I couldn't resist. She hates wearing this ghost costume. Infact it was on for a whopping three minutes but the pictures are priceless.

Austin bound!

2007-10-25T22:18:00.000-05:00

In t-minus two hours and counting. I'm totally jazzed/wired and can't sleep. I NEED to sleep. Josh and I are first shift drivers. ugh. driving, 12 hours, with my bro in the car as well.

Watch for us on TV! ABC 2:30 CDT kickoff!

Keep the faith and don't stop believ-N!

GBR!

Sox Dance Off

2007-10-22T08:42:00.001-05:00

I believe all this action was for clinching the regular season. I can only imagine the kind of jig we will see for making it to the Series. I wonder what they are calling this in Boston? The 'Bon, Riverbon, Papledance?

Go SOX!

Spinning my wheels

2007-10-02T22:50:00.000-05:00

I've been back from vacation for approximately one week and I feel as though I've been spinning my wheels and getting nothing done. I've started half my to do list and finished maybe two things out of the 20+ on the damn list.

In other work news I'm going to share a conversation I had with a patient yesterday. One of my tech's puts the phone on hold and says to me "I tried really hard but I am just not getting through to him" Of course I want to know what isn't getting through. He wanted to "negotiate" a lower price for his Spiriva Inhaler. He has a medicare part D card that gives it to him for the affordable independent pharmacy violating co pay price of $28 and it retails for approximately $150.

Me: What can I do for you sir
Him: I want to know how I can get a negotiated price on my Inhaler.
Me: I'm sorry sir, but that is the price your insurance has set up.
Him: But I want to negotiated a lower price. How do we proceed.
Me: Unfortunately, the only thing you can do is pay $28.
Him: What do you think this costs in Canada?
Me: I don't know sir. I'm not a registered pharmacist working in Canada.
Him: But I bet you know its lower than $28
Me: Well, I don't know about that. I suppose you could take a bus trip to Canada to find out.
Him: So what kind of discount are you going to give me?
Me: Sir, really I can't do anything. Your insurance card already reimbursed me $3.00 BELOW the ACTUAL DRUG COST. I can't take anything more off the price.
Him: So you're telling me you're not making money off of me. I find it hard to believe. What do you do make it all up on my other scripts?
Me: No sir, I am not trying to rob you of all your money with one prescription.
Him: Well $28 is pretty steep. I find it hard to believe. How about you take another ten dollars off?

At this point I can feel the vein in my neck and forehead just jumping out of my skin.

Me: I just explained that I'm already losing money and now you want me to take $10 dollars off?
Him: Whats ten more dollars when you aren't making anything in the first place?
Me: Okay here is the deal you can pay full cost of $150 or pay $28 you decide which "negotiated" price you'd like to take.
Him: So that's it.
Me: Yes that's it.

click.

Sadly this conversation was not someone pulling my chain. And people wonder why I drink. I have dozens of these kinds of phone calls everyday. You know why the insurance companies have such lengthy automated phone systems? They want you to give up in complete and utter desperation. That way they never have to deal directly or indirectly with the people they are screwing, I mean insuring. So the next best choice is for everyone with a gripe about the effed up health care system is to take it out on the already spread too thin jack of all health care trades..............the retail pharmacist.

Go ahead. Rip and flame away. I hope you walk away feeling better about your situation. Damn right you put those pharmacy folks in their place. Who are we to say you can't get brand name Darvocet for $3 anyway? Even better, throw your receipts back at us and call us "you people" My personal all time favorite derogatory remark. From now on I'm going to assume "you people" is referring to the high percentage of people who are far more educated than the person flinging the insults from across the counter. I may just have to adopt my own "you people" group to complete the ugly circle. I wish "you people" would stop screaming about how your purple pill out to be laced with gold. Didn't you know that's what the stripes were on the outside? How bout them apples?

Okay, to set the record straight.

1. I feel much better.
2. I don't really think about this stuff every single second while at work. Just every hour of my shift.
3. I do love my job and the patients I serve. Sometimes I'm just pushed to my very limits. Much like I imagine my brother and I did to our parents. And I think they still love us. Dad affectionately calls us 'roid #1 and #2.
4. The red haired, spunky, 76 y/o irish gal who came up to the counter and said yes I'd like to pick up my prescription. She told my tech her name was Jose Cuervo. There is still hope out there.

I'll leave you all with some laughs. Check out this clip for some Lost bloopers.
"I feel like Darth Vader"

Whew this was a long one. Thanks for sticking with me and sorry for all my bad grammer and poor sentence structure. Its late and I could give a crap less if it annoys anyone reading this blog.

Hugs and kisses everyone!

Iran so far away

2007-10-02T22:42:00.000-05:00

This is the SNL skit I was talking about the other night. Freaking hysterical!

NYC post #2

2007-09-22T22:30:00.001-05:00

I'm having a great time here in the city. Yesterday we did a lot of walking, walking, and more walking. The highlight for me was St. Patricks cathedral. Can you say wow! I also found a beautiful rosary. Not much time to post too much. I'll leave you with a picture. I hope to breakdown some highlights of the trip in more detail when I get home.

Greetings from NYC!

2007-09-21T11:50:00.000-05:00

After a waaaaaaaay to early morning, I only had two hours of sleep, we arrived in NYC. So far I've managed to watch a ton of baseball in times square and drink my arse off. I'll try to post updates when I can.

Later gators!

Disgusted

2007-09-15T22:09:00.000-05:00

Really. Really. Disgusted. Dating back to October of 2001 it seems like every nationally televised game we are getting blown out in front of the nation. Whats worse about tonight? We're getting our asses handed to us by more than 30 points AT HOME and it isn't even the fourth quarter yet.

Thanks for nothing Kevin Fucking Cosgrove. Hand the ball off to anyone and let them run up the middle for 9+ yards every freaking time. Did our linebackers even show up tonight? Nice adjustments at the half as usual. I had no idea our run defense was so bad. I can't remember the last time I wanted to stop watching a Husker game in the third.

Its hard to keep the faith right now. But I bleed big red. And right now someone has cut my jugular. I'm a universal donor, but can anyone step up and help me? I think I'm past a transfusion and in need of a heart transplant.

GBR.

The Jail Bird

2007-09-13T11:40:00.000-05:00

Otherwise known as Ellie. So the other day I didn't get the doggie gate locked in place and she knocked it over. Only fatality was the laundry room rug. Today, I came home after two hours of work and she met me at the door. Her gate was still up. She's one helluva jumper but it hasn't quite clicked in her mind that she can hurdle the gate. At least until now. She scooted her bed all the way across the room and used it to propel herself up and over. I'm sure she could do it without the bed but I don't want her to figure that out anytime soon. From the looks of it she took her toy with her and slept on my pillow for a couple hours. I am going to have to re evaluate her quarters when I am away.

Every condition requires a prescription

2007-09-13T11:25:00.000-05:00

I had forgotten about this little gem. I sent this one out last year so some of you may have seen this.

Enjoy!

Day of Conception

2007-09-11T22:36:00.000-05:00

I'm really at a loss for this one. I mean have a baby and get a car?!? Does that really beat 0%APR or cash back options in the long run? And isn't this unofficially recognized world wide as New Year's Eve?

Read more here.

I am forcing myself to be in bed at 11pm. I haven't been sleeping all that well and I've got a ten hour shift tomorrow. I've been working double time to get things ready for the scriptpro install on Saturday. These kinds of things never go smooth, well planned or not. I like to at least make the effort on the off chance I could get lucky and things would go well.

Go Big Red!

2007-08-31T12:28:00.000-05:00

I posted this video early this this summer. It gives me chills and it never gets old. I'm having people over for the game tomorrow. Cheesy hash brown's make their triumphant return. Yum!

My mini vacation has been fantastic. I caught up on a ton of sleeping. The DMB show was amazing. I finally heard Best of what's around live. I nearly lost it.

Have a fabulous weekend gang!

Accepted!

2007-08-24T17:07:00.000-05:00

Ellie passed with flying colors. I'm now totally relieved. I have somewhere to take her for the day. It has been a busy day. I went in before opening this morning and worked for an hour, went to Ellie's interview, the cleaning ladies came, the cable guy came, AND the Orkin guy came and checked out my spider problem. I also squeezed in a visit to the eye doctor. My doctor has one helluva sense of humor. "Well your prescription hasn't changed and for someone with your level of near sightedness that is no small victory" Wise ass.

I'm working tomorrow part of the day and then I am officially on vacation. I could start the party tonight but it has been a long week at work and we have been incredibly short staffed. I would feel bad leaving them on the start of my vacation in such bad shape.

Have a great weekend guys and gals!

Good luck Hats!

2007-08-20T21:44:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm just post happy tonight. Hell, who knows when I'll be able to post again this week? I might as well do it all now. Each year I get a new hat or shirt for good luck at the start of the season. This year for my Huskers and Chiefs I bought two hats. And no Andy, I did not buy four hats all at once. I started my quest at the end of last season. I also bought a new Braves hat this week. I forgot to do it at the beginning of the season and I think they could use the extra luck. Camo was everywhere this year. No foo foo, girly, or pink hats for this gal!

What comes with the rain?

2007-08-20T21:35:00.000-05:00

Dispatches from the Island

2007-08-20T21:06:00.000-05:00

Jorge Garcia has joined the ever growing world of blogger. Check it out here! He has some cool insight.

Let's Groove Tonight!

2007-08-20T20:34:00.000-05:00

I was groovin Earth, Wind, and Fire style on Saturday night. The concert was soooooo much fun. I took my folks and we had a blast. No one threw a hip out, but it wasn't for a lack of effort. That was probably the largest crowd I have ever seen at stircove. The line to get in wound all the way back to the parking lot. They opened with Boogie Wonderland, Sing a Song, and Shooting Star. They closed strong with September and Let's Groove Tonight. I was definitely sad when it was over. There were three couples in front of us that were easily my parents age if not older and they were TRASHED! I remembered thinking if the concert for some reason sucked I would at least be entertained. Best quote of the night was Mr. Friendly in front of me look at me and say "hell I'd blow him" I nearly choked on my beer.

I know someone out there is going to blast me for what I'm about to say next. I realize my dog is not a child but I do feel bad leaving her at home when I work a ten hour day. Many thanks to Andy, Angie, and Carl for letting her out on my long work days. I've been trying to get her set up at a "doggie day care" type place. Good grief you'd think I was trying to get my kid into an elite kindergarten. We have an "interview" on Friday. Which irks me for multiple reasons, but mostly b/c I put the application in last week hoping I could get her in this week. I won't need this place for another two weeks after this Thursday. So I'm annoyed. Flame away.

Disney Radio

2007-08-17T14:55:00.000-05:00

Well, I survived an outing with the girls to the baseball game AND the sleep over. I think Ellie is more tired than me. I now know more than I could have ever imagined about the Jonas brothers (Nick is apparently the cutest), Hannah Montana, and all things Disney. Whew.

I'm trying to recharge today. I've got a big staffing week next week and then I'm on VACATION! Whoo hoo! I sent papers in for Ellie to be considered at a Day Care for dogs program. I just hate when I have a ten hour day leaving her and only having occasional potty breaks. So I'm either going to get this set up for next week or send her to my parents for the week. Currently, she's hiding under my legs b/c there are utility guys on ladders in the back of the house working on utility lines. She's a brave one. Hide under me and give a little "whoof" I have to maintain contact at all times otherwise she seeks me out. It was cute the first few minutes, now 30 minutes in I'm getting a smidge annoyed.

My folks should be arriving early this afternoon. We're gonna boogie tomorrow the stircove for Earth, Wind, and Fire. Have a great weekend gang!

DMB Tickets!

2007-08-16T14:43:00.001-05:00

"Its the best of whats around" baby! My tickets arrived via FedEx today! WhooHoo! The FedEx guy said I was the first person to actually be home to get the tickets and was curious about when/where the show was. Must be a lot of DMB fans from Omaha making the trip. I ordered these back in May so I'm really pumped to go to the show. Its turning into an annual brother sister outing for Andy and I.

Weather providing I'm taking my boss' kids to the Omaha Royals game tonight. I hope it doesn't rain. I am leaving straight from work. I'm closing tonight b/c one of our pharmacists is going to the Slayer show in Lincoln. Is that not a hoot or what? He hasn't been to a concert in years so I told him to buy ear plugs. He will definitely need them. He can be hard of hearing now as it is.

ScriptPro is having the walk through at my store tomorrow and I'm pretty psyched. I'm planning on working until noonish and then taking the entire weekend off. This is day 11 for me and my patience is getting pretty worn down.

ESPN Gameplan

2007-08-14T21:54:00.000-05:00

I just placed my "early bird" order and I am set for watching college football on Saturdays. Oh yeah. Only 17 days until kick off.

And speaking of football, I can't count the many ways that I love Herm Edwards, the coach of my beloved KC Chiefs. I watched the first episode of Hard Knocks last week and I love it!

Work was a complete cluster today for reasons I'm not even going to bother getting into now. No need to increase my risk for a stroke for the second time today. Although, I will say that I had one particular gal really get in my craw today. She just could not understand that medicaid doesn't pay for EVERYTHING. "Well what am I supposed to do" I dunno, get a job perhaps? I know its just mind boggling that popping out kids for a living to get a higher monthly allowance from the state isn't exactly something you will see at a job fair or career week at school. The whole medicaid system is so abused I can't wrap my brain around it. This week I am truly working hard for the weekend. I have another glorious ten hours to look forward to tomorrow. My poor baby is going to be distraught all day.

Later gators!

Reel Big Fish

2007-08-12T20:35:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling the love and the need to spread the music so I give you three more clips, Beer, She has a Girlfriend Now, and the remake of A-Ha's Take on Me. Warnings for loud music and language. Specifically, the F Bomb. The last two clips are from the Sokol show about a year or so ago. Enjoy!

How's it going to be.....

2007-08-12T20:00:00.001-05:00

.....when you don't know me anymore?

The Third Eye Blind concert ROCKED Friday night. They sounded amazing and we had a chance to hear some new stuff. They've been working on a fourth album so I'm crossing my fingers that we will hear that sometime soon. It was muggy and hot as hell out but definitely worth the icky factor. Jake, Andy, Angie and I had a great sing along time. And lets not forget that Jake is the king of pantomiming/gesturing wildly during songs.

Saturday was the Reel Big Fish/Less than Jake show. Reel Big Fish are always a great show. I had never seen Less Than Jake and I wasn't disappointed. Some highlights from the show include a rocking rendition of Enter Sandman by RBF and "MASTER" as well as the mosh pit that extended all the way back to the sound station at the back of Sokol. I only have one major negative from the show and that would be the heat aka the "icky" factor. Sweat was DRIPPING from the ceiling. Literally dripping people. I was walking, sliding, navigating through nasty ass bodily fluid. I don't think Sokol has any air conditioning and they don't let anyone re enter the show. One of these days someone is going to get hurt. We almost left after RBF simply because it was so damn hot. Sokol is an old auditorium/gymnasium and it is in dire need of some upgrades. I'm not sure I'll go to a show there in August again.

Here is the pit.

Endeavor reaches orbit!

2007-08-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

I was in fourth grade when the shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds into its flight to space. I remember everything so vividly. The entire school was gathered in the library to watch the launch. I remember seeing my teacher crying and not understanding what I was watching. Yesterday, after 22 years Barbara Morgan reached her dream and carried on the legacy of Christa McAuliffe. Morgan was McAuliffe's back up and in 1988 became an astronaut full time. I watched the launch yesterday live on the web from work. From Mission Control "Morgan racing towards space on the wings of a legacy" immediately after they had passed the 73 second mark otherwise known as the go at throttle up mark. It was a beautiful moment.

American Idol Week in Omaha

2007-08-07T09:43:00.000-05:00

Lordy look out and avoid the downtown area around the QWest Center. They are estimating that roughly 12,000 people auditioned in Dallas last week. I have to say I'm not a fan of the show. One of my old roomies made me watch the finale when Ruben won. I couldn't have faked my enthusiasm if my life depended on it. However, I do enjoy the first run of episodes when they show all the bad singers who are obviously lacking close friends and family to tell it to them straight up. Sign up starts tomorrow and I believe auditions begin on Friday. It will be interesting to see what Omaha brings to the show.

In other news, I had a fantastic weekend off. I went out on Friday and played a few mean games of shuffleboard. For those of you who know my brother, make sure you give him a hard time about losing a game of shuffleboard to a legally blind woman. Not only did he lose, but she handed him his ass. Fortunately, he found redemption after partnering with his sister and we overcame a 13 to 3 deficit to win by one.

Saturday we hit the lake. Ellie had her first experience in the water and it was pretty cute. She's not a bad swimmer either. She did spend majority of her time sniffing around on the beach and digging up stuff. Or just laying around soaking up the sun. She likes to lay out and soak it up.

I am ever so fortunate enough to have good connections and I watched the first 2 episodes of Weeds. HOLY MOMMA! It was great. I can't wait to see how everything develops. I also have the first episode of Californication. I haven't had a chance to watch it yet, but I'm pretty sure I'll like anything with DD.

I was up and at em early this morning. I was actually in the store at 6:45am. I had to clean up some stuff from yesterday and make it back into town by 8am. It felt good to be up so early, but right now all I really want is a nap.

And finally I'd like to give a shout out to G in BAH-ston for completing her second 3-Day! Check her blog for the scoop. Congrats G!

Friday Joy!

2007-08-03T11:27:00.000-05:00

So it is finally here! I have to staff and close at one of our stores today, not a huge deal. I should be done by 7pm. This is my first weekend off in four weeks. I don't care what I do just so long as I'm not in one of the stores. I might try to see the new Bourne movie tonight. I can't get to wild and crazy b/c I have I a dentist appointment at 8am. I may fall asleep while she's cleaning my teeth.

Ellie's haircut isn't a full blown disaster but it isn't good either. I've lost this post three times now so the description keeps getting shorter and shorter. I think they were going for a cross b/t a puppy cut and a summer cut. It ended up looking more like a deformed Lion cut. Seriously, she has uneven patches everywhere and weird cowlick looking thing on her belly. Jenny is off the list.

In other work news, it looks like I will be doing a radio commercial to air on one of the local radio stations. After surviving my brief television experience earlier this year with Omaha Living this should be no sweat. I could be wearing sweats and a ball cap and no one would know the difference. Sounds like my kind of job.

Later gators!

A day "off"

2007-08-01T10:28:00.000-05:00

Extra emphasis on "off' because I'm not really. I have a ton of stuff to get done today and I have to go into work for some inventory/ordering work. I dropped little Ellie off to get her hair cut today. I learned last week that the gal who always cuts her hair is no longer working there. I'm ashamed to admit I was a bit upset with Rachel being gone. She's Ellie's buddy. She actually enjoys going to get her hair cut. Thanks to Rachel she will now willingly get into the bath tub for a cleaning. Rachel fusses over her and gives her lots of kisses. Most of the time Ellie isn't even aware I've left. When I pick her up Rachel gives me the update on how she did. "She tried to act tough today, but we know she's not" And now its all gone. Naturally, they won't tell me where she went. I wasn't overly impressed with Jenny or her lackluster "oh she's cute" comment. I probably shouldn't hold her barb wire tattoo across her arm against her either but I am. I'm hoping Rachel took good notes b/c I don't think Jenny heard a word I said about her cut. Let's hope she doesn't come back shaved. All this fuss over my puppy, I think it will take another decade to work up to kids.

In other news, I think I have my work schedule ironed out through October. Which is a sweet freaking deal b/c I was able to schedule my three weeks of vacation time. I'm taking the last week in August off. I might go to Chicago for the weekend (Josh any updates), I will be in KC for a couple days to see DMB and possibly do some shopping. I'm also going to go crazy and clean the house and get the basement painted the last few days. September is NYC! Whoo! I'm getting a bit stressed about September though b/c it looks like our new robot will be arriving the week before I leave. I hope we can get everything ironed out before I have to leave.

Finally, August is here. Which means Earth, Wind, and Fire and the DMB show! I scored sweet reserve tickets for DMB. Andy and I will be making our third trip to Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in what is turning into our annual brother sister DMB trip. Actually, this is my fourth DMB show in three years. I have to include the Omaha show.

Finally!

2007-07-27T16:00:00.000-05:00

My computer hutch from Ashley Furniture arrived. I was so relieved to see the correct piece of furniture AND it was undamaged I could have wept. This was the FOURTH delivery attempt. I've spent the morning cleaning up my office and getting things settled.

We've got a lead on a new pharmacist that sounds very promising. Recently, life handed me a big fat lemon in the work department and I think I may have found a way to make a giant pitcher of lemonade. I can't stand lying in any way shape or form. I'm also a firm believer in what comes around goes around and eventually someone will be getting their due. So while I'm drudging away staffing for the third weekend in a row I will have a smile on my face.

I let loose on Wednesday night with my brother and Kyle. Boy did I need that. It felt good to just shut down from the work scene a bit and do some venting, and drinking of course. Good times were had by all. I also watched Spies like Us for the first time in what felt like forever. Man I love that movie. Fitshume and Milbarge. I'm sure I spelled that wrong, but what the heck. I was laughing so hard at one point my stomach hurt.

Have a great weekend guys!

:::mwah:::

Picutre this......

2007-07-23T21:18:00.000-05:00

Me on Shumps's shoulders, heading towards the mosh pit at the Reel Big Fish show. What does this equal? A terrified Roonz. The only other time I'd experienced altitude on this level was in an airplane. Oh and nice work behind me Mr. High eyebrow arch. I know who you are and I know where you live.

Shump and little one.

I'm having issues posting pictures from the web so I'll try to do this again tomorrow. Josh has some comical pictures from the show.

Last night!

2007-07-21T18:14:00.000-05:00

"talking bout last night"

What am I talking bout? I'm talking about how last nights show was amazing. I'm talking bout how my ears are still ringing, and I'm dead tired. Amazing folks. Everyone should go to a RCPM show. Josh took a ton of good pictures and videos last night. As soon as he uploads them to youtube I'll give everyone a taste.

And speaking of pictures, there is a reason I don't usually bring a camera to the bar or after hours for that matter. Most of the time I don't want to see the photographic evidence of my stupidity. So I give you these gems. They start off nice and innocent. Posing with friends for nice pictures to remember years later...and then the ones you never want your family to see. What can I say? I work hard and give 150% to everything I do, including having a good time outside of work.

I'm laying low tonight to rest up. I'm thinking of firing up the grill and watching some baseball.

Later gators!

This is X-citing!

2007-07-18T08:58:00.000-05:00

I stumbled across this gem yesterday! Mulder and Scully back in action again! I have so very many fonds memories from the show. Also, David Duchovny has a new show out on Showtime called Californication. I will be watching of course. One, it has David and two it premieres after the season 3 premier of Weeds. And I love Weeds.

Carl and I hung out last night and reminisced about pharmacy school and all sorts of thing. Somehow Tea Leoni came up and we started laughing about the episode Hollywood A.D. with her and Gary Shandling guest starring. "How do you run in those shoes?"

Oh, good times.

We're #1

2007-07-17T07:39:00.000-05:00

Although, I'd prefer that we were dead last. I spent close to $46 for 13 gallons yesterday. Of course we reach nation leading highs when I have to start commuting to Bellevue again.

Ellie and I have been up and at it since six this morning. We had a 30 minute power walk and some play time in the yard. I hope she's tired enough to sleep well while I'm working.

Beat box

2007-07-15T23:33:00.001-05:00

I totally forgot to post a link to Matisyahu beat boxing. I think he should have a competition with the guy from Police Academy.

I'll post more tomorrow and try and get some clips up from the Violent Femmes show.