KateSpot: This-n-That Archives

June 27, 2008

I hate this commercial

Anyone been hearing the Six Flags new ad? More flags. more fun. I hate it... I mean, I.really.hate.it.

Why is it in my head!?!???

I miss the dancing old guy - he was funny.

Posted by Cate at 10:07 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

May 12, 2008

Flickr Me

Check out my latest pics!

Posted by Cate at 06:27 PM | Comments (3)

April 21, 2008

Inner Flame

The girls and I attended church this past Sunday. During the sermon, my pastor used this quote:

Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by an encounter with another human being. Each of us owes the deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this inner light. (Albert Schweitzer)

Wow. Just wow.

Posted by Cate at 01:53 PM | Comments (2)

Most addicting game ever

Google Image Labeler

You must go play. Go now!

Posted by Cate at 10:37 AM | Comments (1)

March 11, 2008

He is watching and boy is He pissed!

I saw this in Wal*Mart today and totally cracked up laughing, right in the aisle.... It's no yolk kids.. this is for real..

Hahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

And, if you are seriously looking to buy them, check them out here or here.

Posted by Cate at 10:14 AM | Comments (6)

February 28, 2008

Today's The Day

I"m working today!!! Hooray!!

In fact, I am working tomorrow too, as a substitute secretary at one of the schools. Wish me luck and I'll let you know how my day was when I get back later today!!

Wheeeeeeeeee!

Posted by Cate at 07:00 AM | Comments (2)

February 18, 2008

More pics

Check out my Flickr page!

Posted by Cate at 10:38 PM | Comments (0)

January 28, 2008

I'm back with the force

The working force.

I've got orientation tomorrow morning with the local school district. I can't wait to get started at work. I am only waiting for my background check from the state before I can officially work.

Woohoo - money money!

Posted by Cate at 10:57 PM | Comments (2)

January 22, 2008

New Flickr

A couple new pics at Katespot Flickr

Posted by Cate at 09:06 AM | Comments (0)

January 02, 2008

Workout With Wii

I wanted to play the Wii system before the girls got home. My mom had told me about a woman who lost about 60lbs by eating well and playing the Wii system. Sounds good to me! I just boxed for ten minutes and boy am I out of breath! Whew!

But, it was lots of fun too!

Posted by Cate at 02:01 PM | Comments (2)

November 18, 2007

Love it

Got this pic in an email and it made me laugh.

Posted by Cate at 01:10 PM | Comments (0)

September 28, 2007

Brilliant!

A mom (Anita Renfroe) has condensed everything a mom might say to her kids in 24 hours into less than 3 minutes - to the tune of the William Tell Overture. You can find her at anitarenfroe

Posted by Cate at 06:40 AM | Comments (0)

September 25, 2007

New pics

DOn't forget to clickr my Flickr!

Posted by Cate at 10:46 AM | Comments (1)

August 24, 2007

Musical Evening

Last night, the four of us went to a local theater group production of Annie. I've got to admit - they did a good job. It's hard to follow up Albert Finney and Carol Burnett from the movie. The girls enjoyed it as well. Olivia, all by herself, asked for autographs from the people who played Annie, Miss Hannigan, and Daddy Warbucks. It was quite cute!

My only complaint - we got home at 11pm. Youngesthas to get up in about half an hour for her last day of camp. She should be loads of fun today and even more so by this evening. Too bad I won't be home to enjoy the grumpiness. I have Buncos tonight. Hooray!

Posted by Cate at 08:27 AM | Comments (2)

August 12, 2007

More pics!

Why don't you clickr on my Flickr and check out our new toy?

Or, you can just peek below!

Posted by Cate at 03:59 PM | Comments (4)

August 05, 2007

Recovering

About two months ago, My neighbor across the street and I planned a block party to be held on Saturday August 4th. We had about 12 out of 30 families that wanted to attend. Oh my - we had SO much food - burgers and hot dogs, chili, baked beans, sausage and peppers, all kinds of salads - green, macaroni, antipasto, potato.. oh my. Don't even get me started on the booze.... beer, beer, and more beer, plenty of Twisted Teas, wine, gin, and even a large bottle of Jose Cuervo premade strawberry maragaritas (which is very tasty!).

We started around 1230pm and the party wrapped up by 11pm. Luckily, we stayed on top of things last night and only needed to put away a few things this morning and break down some tents and tables. But, I'm moving pretty slow today since I had quite a bit to drink last night. Even Husband is wiped out because he ate all the foods he shouldn't have been eating, especially chowing down on the sausage and peppers that my next door neighbor cooked. He loved them!

I think it's time for a nap.

Posted by Cate at 02:29 PM | Comments (2)

July 26, 2007

New 'Do

I snapped this with my cameraphone... I love it...

Posted by Cate at 06:24 PM | Comments (9)

Psyched!

Today I'm finally getting my hair done. Hoooray! I have been in desperate need of a cut and color. I hope the haircut looks decent. My stylist moved out to Las Vegas - Lord only knows she wasn't making any money off of me.

I ordered my three dresses the other night. Let's hope one of them turns out to be decent. I can't find any sundresses now but if I wanted to buy a winter coat, hell, I'd be all set. Ugh!

What I really need is a web designer who would like to help me "redo" by blog. Anyone looking for some extra cash who won't trash my poor old blog? Anyone? Anyone?

Posted by Cate at 08:43 AM | Comments (2)

July 22, 2007

New Hairstyle

I've decided to get my hair cut/colored/styled into an actual style. Usually, I just get a trim and leave my hair straight. I can't even remember when I found a style that I actually liked until the other day. I was surfing through different hair style websites and discovered this hairstyle. If only I could look as gorgeous as Reese, that would be a bonus! I won't be blonde - it's back to the good old brunette look for me, minus the grey hairs of course!

Busy day here at the homestead. Husband has been trying to finish up all the little things that needed to be done around the house. God only knows he will be busy with that forever - lol. The girls have been doing well, thank goodness. They will be starting camp tomorrow - Eldest is going to horse camp from 9am-2pm and Youngestwill be attending a theater camp from 10am-1pm. Nice planning, eh? I'll even have a couple hours to myself - woohoo!

In happy news, I am a member of a new Buncos group! Hooray! Our first game is Friday at 8pm and it's NKA. No Kids Allowed. Booyah.

Hell, I'm beat. It's off to bed for me. I think I am still recovering from my Harry Potter weekend!

Posted by Cate at 11:27 PM | Comments (2)

June 26, 2007

iLove these guys

I've got to say that this is the best post written about the upcoming release of the iPhone. Go read it now and enjoy.

Posted by Cate at 07:28 PM | Comments (0)

January 23, 2007

Check 'em out!

Pics up on Flickr!

Posted by Cate at 02:49 PM | Comments (1)

January 16, 2007

Repeaters

I'm on hold with a Verizon salesperson in order to upgrade my phone plan and phones. She is making me crazy because she repeats everything I say when I answer her questions. She is also repeating the information v e r y s l o w l y

Example:
Verizon: May I have your mobile number?
Me: ***-***-****
Verizon: (while typing in my number) *** pause *** longer pause ****
Kate: silently screaming

All I want to do is upgrade my flippin' phone and calling plan. When I went to the store this morning, the salesguy was such a snotty bastard, I must walked out while he was still talking. WTF? What happened to customer service? Back in MY day when I was a cashier/sales assiciate/store manager, I busted my butt to help people. I'd still work retail if I didn't have to work nights or weekends!

Now, I've been on hold for around 4 minutes. I've just hung up and I am seriously contemplating another phone company. The worst part, I *know* I'll stick with Verizon because all our family has stoopid Verizon. I think I am going to have to have Husband switch everything because I am rapidly losing patience with all this crap.

GAH!

Posted by Cate at 12:47 PM | Comments (3)

January 12, 2007

Floam Alternative

Here's an alternative to Floam. It's non-toxic and it looks pretty decent. Go visit John at Funtastical Toys and tell him that Kate sent ya!

Posted by Cate at 09:18 AM | Comments (1)

April 13, 2006

Picture Day

I've still got to figure out my camera settings.. my indoor photos look like ass... but here's what I got..

View image

Posted by Cate at 06:53 AM | Comments (7)

November 11, 2005

Just this once

Ok - now you've GOT to admit - doesn't this look like Tom is Katie Holmes' prom date?

:::shudder:::

Posted by Cate at 10:52 PM | Comments (5)

November 09, 2005

Novelty Gifts

I found this whilst browsing the Hammacher Schlemmer catalog:

Doesn't everyone need a Genuine 7-Foot Robby the Robot? Check out the price of this hunk o'junk. And, as an added bonus, shipping is only $500.

Posted by Cate at 11:29 PM | Comments (2)

July 18, 2005

Doing the roots

I figured I would take 30 minutes of my day and actually dedicate them to me. You may be wondering what kind of fabulous pampering I have planned for myself. A bath, a manicure or even a mini spa treament perhaps.

Nope.

I'm coloring my hair. Too many damn grays popping up at my temples. I'm 35 not 55. I cannot have gray hair. No frigging way.

I've already applied the product in my hair and, as I am typing, I am feeling a slightly more tingly/burny feeling that usual. I hope I didn't get a crappy hair kit. I don't have time for screwed up hair. The last time I had screwed up hair was when I was 17 and my friend, who was currently attending vocational school for hair (yeah, I'm a sucker), offered to help me frost my long hair (past the middle of my back). She asked me how light I wanted it and I stupidly said "As light as I can get it".

Now, as anyone in the hairdresser field might know, it's ideal to advise a client if they, in your professional opinion, have chosen unwisely. My friend, although sweet and nice, wasn't the sharpest scissor in the batch, if you know what I mean.

She said "Ok" and slapped the cap on me, pulled my hair through and applied the coloring. While my head was baking, we chatted and had a grand old time. The timer rang, she checked my head and told me it was time to rinse. We rinsed and rinsed over her tiny bathroom sink. When I flipped my head up and looked in the mirror, I sucked in my breath and was, literally, speechless for a moment.

My hair was white blonde. WHITE BLONDE. I am a natural brunette - medium brown. I was BLONDE, with a nice dark root going down the center of my head. It wasn't a nice blonde either. My hair felt, literally, like straw. I freaked out and said "Oh my God. WHAT DID YOU DO?" My friend said, and I swear to God she said this, "Well, that's what you told me to do." I was horrified. All I could think was "My mother is going to kill me." I ended up leaving shortly after that and driving home. It was late at night and I just snuck upstairs in the apartment and went to sleep.

When my mother saw me the next morning, she was speechless. Well, only for a moment before she flipped out. Looking back, I can't say I blame her one bit (Hi Mom!). She told me to never ever let my friend work on my hair again. Of course, I didn't need any further convincing. My hair was just ruined.

About a year later, both Mom and Husband convinced me to go to this new and fabulous salon that just opened up in our area. Mom had found an awesome stylist and she was going to fix my hair. So, I make the appointment and go in at my scheduled time. This place was one of those glamorous salons. You know the type, with the gorgeous stylists that make you feel insignificant. Immediately, I felt uncomfortable. Denise, my stylist, was stunning, just beautiful. Tall and blonde and, thankfully, very nice. She made me feel very comfortable right away.

Then, she looked at my hair. If this was a horror film, the Psycho music would have been heard at this point. :::reet reet reet reet::: I am surprised that Denise didn't scream and stagger backwards after looking and touching my chemically damaged hair. Once the shock wore off, she kept saying "I've never seen hair this damaged". Other stylists were looking at me like I was a lab rat.

She cut off about 8 inches of hair. I was so sad. I loved my long hair, damaged or not. After the chopping, she dyed it back more towards it's natural color. When I was all rinsed and blown dry, I looked in the mirror and instantly hated it. HATED it. It was short and mud colored. Husband, the charming and wonderful man that he is, said it looked SO much better and he liked it. When I showed my Mom, she liked it too.

So, there you have it folks. The lesson of the day: Friends don't let friends frost their hair.

Now it's time for me to rinse. Any one else have hair horror stories?

Posted by Cate at 08:59 AM | Comments (12)

March 16, 2005

WWJSL?

Husband sent me this link - His Essence

As much as I love candles, I think I will pass on this.

(check out Mac's opinion as well)

Posted by Cate at 02:36 PM | Comments (6)

March 15, 2005

Stuff

Things that have been going through my head today:

The new NJ EZ Pass "Data Share System" - this is in the works. I heard about it on the radio this morning. Tickets can be issued based on your speed from one EZ Pass to the next. It can also track criminals. It was suggested that it can be used towards the Amber Alert system. I'd rather drop .35 into a basket and go on my merry way without being tracked thankyouverymuch.

Super Nanny - Good God people. Please parent your children! I watched last night's episode and I was appalled. The four year old literally ran the house. How can that happen?

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart - My new ~~boyfriend~~ favorite show. Seriously, I really enjoy it. Stephen Colbert and Rob Corddry are just hysterical.

Is it ok to crave Girl Scout cookies for breakfast? I've got a box of trefoils calling my name. Mmmm - they go so well with tea.

Does anyone else just crack up at Spongebob? The rock anthem episode just makes me laugh and laugh...

Posted by Cate at 08:15 AM | Comments (5)

March 08, 2005

OUCH

I hate Nair. Holy heck - that stuff just hurts.

It's hard to be a girl. At least I haven't given up!

Posted by Cate at 11:08 AM | Comments (4)

February 18, 2005

Gotta love the name

I watched Alan Cumming ::View image:: on "The Daily Show" last night. He is just so damn funny. I have to admit I think he's adorable. Anywho, it turns out he's promoting a new fragrance.
The name?
Cumming - The Fragrance. ::View image::

Alan Cumming ::link:: is giving fans who purchase his new cologne a saucy little treat - the interior of the fragrance box boasts nude snapshots of the Scottish actor.

The star recently launched CUMMING after joining forces with perfumer pal CHRISTOPHER BROSIUS, and he's hoping consumers will be delighted with his flesh-filled photographs.

He says of the pictures, "These are homages to old fragrance ads.

"The notion that you're arriving at this party for the launch of your fragrance and there's these big framed photos of you naked (is funny).

"It's like one of those dreams you have when you go onstage and you have no clothes on or something. It really happened to me!"

He adds, "My favourite thing I'm hoping will happen in my life is that I'll come off a plane somewhere and a lady (promoting perfume) will come up to me and go, 'Can I interest you in Cumming?'"

Posted by Cate at 08:27 AM | Comments (2)

July 26, 2004

Toxic Audio

If anyone is going to NYC, you MUST see <a href="http://www.toxicaudio.com/"target=_blank>Toxic Audio</a>. They are incredible. Check out their page and click on "Toxic CDs" to listen to soundclips.
Go now. Really.

Posted by Cate at 02:23 PM | Comments (0)

July 15, 2004

Gotta cut loose..

Footloose will be playing at <a href="http://www.trumpplaza.com/entertainment/default.asp"target=_blank>Trump Plaza </a> until August 22. Who wants to go? I sure as hell want to see this! I wanna hear "Holding Out For A Hero" and who can resist "Almost Paradise"?
Read some more about the show <a href="http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/entertainment/casinos/cas_inter.shtml"target=_blank>here</a>.

Was it really in the theaters 20 years ago? ::sigh:: I feel so freakin' OLD.

Posted by Cate at 11:41 AM | Comments (5)

June 14, 2004

BONKOS!

Just got back from Bonkos. I didn't win anything but had a grand old time anyway. I think I might be able to score a ticket to Footloose when it is going to be playing at Trump Plaza! How fun! And, one of my bonko ladies is going to try to get tickets for Wicked!! YAY!! I would really like to see that. Plus, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is coming out as well as Sly Fox starring Richard Dreyfus. I can see how a person can get hooked on seeing shows.

Off to read a few blogs... catch ya later!

Posted by Cate at 11:45 PM | Comments (3)

June 03, 2004

Goin' out!

YAY! I can't wait - I am meeting up with my friends at 615pm and driving on down for the 8pm show. I might even toss in a few bucks into some slots - I can certainly use the money!

Posted by Cate at 04:26 PM | Comments (1)

June 02, 2004

Whoops

Looks like my trip to <a href="http://www.katespot.com/archives/005167.php#005167"target=_blank>AC</a> is postponed until tomorrow. Seems like on Wednesday, they only run the show in the afternoon. So, I get to spend the evening with my charming husband and beautiful children.

Help me!

Posted by Cate at 04:34 PM | Comments (2)

YAY!

I am going to Atlantic City tonight to see "Singing in the Rain" at Trump Plaza! One of the ladies from my Bonkos group could get tickets for $20 each. Woohoo!
I can't wait.

P will be home with the girls tonight. I know that some of my friends' husbands wouldn't even want to watch their own kids for an hour much less for a few hours and then do the whole nighttime routine.

I am so lucky to have one awesome husband. I am going to have to plan something nice for him.
Heh.

Posted by Cate at 10:55 AM | Comments (1)

May 06, 2004

The "do" is done

I like the color. I'm a brunette again. Buh-BYE gray hair.

Say "cheesy"

M and O get in the action

Posted by Cate at 09:52 PM | Comments (9)

May 05, 2004

Top 40 List

(from <a href="http://www.katespot.com/archives/005037.php#005037">Friday</a>)
<a href="http://www.mikeanddiane.com/worst%20songs"target=_blank>The top 40 South Jersey's Worst Songs of All Times</a>

40. Falco - Rock Me Amadeus

39. Was Not Was - Walk the Dinosaur

38. Chuck Berry - My Ding-A-Ling

37. Suzanne Vega - Toms Diner

36. Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

35. Right Said Fred - I'm Too Sexy

34. Bay City Rollers - Saturday Night

33. Enigma - Return To Innocence

32. William Hung - She Bangs

31. Great White - Once Bitten Twice Shy

30. Carl Douglas - Kung Fu Fighting

29. Debbie Gibson - Shake Your Love

28. Garth Brooks - Friends in Low Places

27. MC Hammer - U Can't Touch This

26. Rod Stewart - Love Touch

25. Fat Boys & Beach Boys - Wipeout

24. Eric Carmen - All By Myself

23. Baha Men - Who Let the Dogs Out

22. Crash Test Dummies - Mmmmm Mmmm Mmmmm

21. Rednex - Cotton Eyed Joe

20. Don Johnson - Heartbeat

19. Spice Girls - Wannabe

18. Rupert Holmes - Escape (The Pina Colada Song)

17. Vanilla Ice - Ice Ice Baby

16. Taco - Puttin' On the Ritz

15. Michael Bolton - How Am I Supposed To Live Without You

14. Poison - Unskinny Bop

13. Los Del Rio - Macarena

12. B52's - Rock Lobster

11. Prince - Batdance

10. Billy Ray Cyrus - Acky Breaky Heart

9. Snow - Informer

8. Starland Vocal Band - Afternoon Delight

7. Hanson - Mmm Bop

6. Rick Dees - Disco Duck

5. Styx - Mr. Roboto

4. Minnie Riperton - Lovin' You

3. Aqua - Barbie Girl

2. Captain & Tenille - Muskrat Love

...and drumroll please...

1. Tiny Tim - Tip Toe Through the Tulips

Posted by Cate at 02:23 PM | Comments (1)

April 27, 2004

Gussied up

I made an appointment to get my hair done next week. I can get rid of these durn gray hairs again! I am also going to have my eyebrows "cleaned". I haven't had my brows done - not professionally. I hope I don't lose all my brow hair. That would suck.

Posted by Cate at 01:22 PM | Comments (7)

March 25, 2004

Popular tonight

I have received more phone calls this past hour than I have all day.

Weird.

Posted by Cate at 08:28 PM | Comments (2)

March 24, 2004

Sleepy

Not much to say... I am pooped. I don't exactly know why but it's been a long day. I think I pulled a muscle in my upper back, near my right shoulder blade. I am going to lay down, watch some tv and try to fall asleep.
G'night ya'll.

Posted by Cate at 11:15 PM | Comments (3)

March 04, 2004

Today's Horoscope

Gemini Horoscope
Thu Mar. 4, 2004

The only good thing about being on an emotional roller coaster is that you never feel the same way for long. One moment you're up, the next you're down. You can't seem to figure out just what it is you want today. Rather than bringing your loved ones along on this wild ride, why not take some time away from your usual environment. You'll be a lot better off on your own. And who knows? Something more important may come out of these few moments of solitude!

Heh - you think?

Posted by Cate at 08:59 AM | Comments (0)

March 02, 2004

It must be nice

(both links via Yahoo)
<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&u=/040229/ids_photos_en/r146529095.jpg&e=4&ncid=441">Shoes</a>
Singer Alison Krauss wears <a href="http://www.katespot.com/archives/shoes.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.katespot.com/archives/shoes.php','popup','width=410,height=238,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false">$2 million dollar shoes</a>, made out of Kwait diamonds and designed by Stuart Weitzman, as she arrives for the 76th Academy Awards in Hollywood, February 29, 2004.

<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&u=/040229/ids_photos_en/r3189306148.jpg&e=4&ncid=1756">Dress</a>
This detail photograph shows the <a href="http://www.katespot.com/archives/dress.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.katespot.com/archives/dress.php','popup','width=410,height=274,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false">diamond-studded dress</a> from Randi Rahm worn by Maria Menounos, 'Entertainment Tonight' host for the Oscar Arrivals telecast, on the red carpet at the 76th annual Academy Awards (news - web sites) in Hollywood, California February 29, 2004. The one-of-a-kind dress is emblazoned with 3,000 hand-sewn round, princess and marquis-cut colored stones totaling two thousand carats, weighs 2.5 lbs and is worth $2.5 million.

Posted by Cate at 06:07 PM | Comments (4)

February 17, 2004

Online photographs

I need some recommendations for companies that print out digital pics. I have used Ofoto and PictureTrail before without any problems. I was looking for places that might print them out cheaper than .29/photograph.
Any suggestions?

Posted by Cate at 08:06 AM | Comments (4)

February 07, 2004

Taxes done!

P and I got our taxes finished last night. We had started to work on them the other day but we could not find his W-2 form. Boy, was he pissed! We did find his W-2 yesterday - it was packed up with some of my Girl Scout paperwork. Oops. Surprisingly, we are getting money back. Thank goodness for pre-tax withdrawls.
The sun is shining outside. It looks gorgeous. It's supposed to get as "warm" as 47 degrees! Woohoo! A heat wave. LOL.

Off to do laundry and other sundries... have a great day!

Posted by Cate at 10:27 AM | Comments (3)

January 26, 2004

Fish Tank

Oh man - P and I just cleaned the fish tank. P-U.

We need to replace the gravel and I think we are going to get a few more fish. Right now we have black and white tetras, zebra danios and a red flame platy. I think I want some more colorful fish. Time to do some fish research.

Posted by Cate at 02:30 PM | Comments (2)

November 20, 2003

Swap Gift

I belong to a swap group. Every few months, there is a theme and the members purchase items related to the them within a particular price range. We usually have three or four weeks to purchase items for their "swapee". I had a lot of fun picking out cute and fun things. I received my package today and it was full of all kinds of neat things! Check it out in the extended entry!

I got tea, state quarters - all Denver mint too! Very hard to find in New Jersey. Stamps, a snowflake ornament, a wooden soldier, a snowman bath bomb, a great set of cookie cutters, cookie mix, two balls of awesome wool, beautiful tiny pill box, cookie decorating sprinkles, Christmas confetti and a few other lovely things. Elizabeth also sent included a lovely card. I am amazed at all the time and effort she put forth to send me all these wonderful things. Thank you! {{{hugs}}}

Posted by Cate at 02:18 PM | Comments (9)

November 04, 2003

Associate

Ok - I am sure you guys have noticed that I am now signed up as an Amazon associate. **smile**

Posted by Cate at 10:35 PM | Comments (2)

September 01, 2003

This is the stuff

I was drinking last night - Red Passion. It is very good although this image from <a href="http://www.kobrandwine.com/products/alz.html">Alize's website</a> is freaking me out. What's with the chick's legs? It's really ****ed up looking!

Posted by Cate at 09:59 PM | Comments (3)

Photo Entry

Check 'em out.

The ceiling being scraped away

Looking good with a new light.

The photographs make the paint color look red. It's pretty vivid but it's not red.

Start 'em young!

P painted a face for O - she loved it!

These are some shots of the kitchen from different angles:

Posted by Cate at 08:51 PM | Comments (7)

August 19, 2003

SPIDER!

Holy crap - there is a HUGE farooking spider and spider web right off my back porch - check this thing out!

Ooogy, isn't it??? The spider is roughly the size of a half dollar. P says a quarter but I told him he was full of crap. I took this pic while standing about five feet away.. You know, in case it jumped or something. Also, when I was holding the camera and getting ready to take the photograph, I told P not too poke or grab me or I'd have to kill him.
I don't like bugs ::shiver::

Posted by Cate at 09:54 PM | Comments (15)

August 15, 2003

<a href="http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/0,,sid9_gci506044,00.html">IT Sniglets</a>

A sniglet is a word that should be in the dictionary but isn't. Sniglets are the brainchild of comedian Rich Hall who, with a little help from his friends, wrote a series of books containing sniglets in the mid-eighties. With a little help from Rich Hall and our readers, here are some IT-related sniglets we think should be in the dictionary but aren't:

Execuglide - to maneuver oneself around the room while seated in a wheeled office chair.

Animousity - vigorously clicking your pointer device because a page is loading too slowly.

Screen spasm - pages that try to load simultaneously on your computer screen as a direct result of your animousity.

Prairedogged - the feeling of helplessness that overtakes you when co-workers in neighboring cubicles constantly pop their heads up to ask you stupid questions.

Cellphonic appraisal - the activity that occurs when a ringing cell phone causes everyone in the room to check and see if it's theirs.

Gadaboutag - the orphan HTML tag that's messing up your page.

fUtility - a 3rd party utility that won't install no matter how closely one follows the instructions.

Dopeler effect- the tendency of stupid ideas to seem smarter when they come at you rapidly.

Dot gone - last year's e-commerce hopeful.

Tacitician - a remote worker who excels at performing non-work related tasks while on a conference call.

Fonesia - the affliction that strikes when you dial a phone number and forget whom you were calling just as they answer.

Egotictic - the amount of time wasted because you stubbornly refuse to look it up in the manual.

WAPathy - lack of interest in wireless technology.

Crapplet - a poorly written or totally useless Java applet

Backronym - an IT term whose letters once had no meaning, but have since come to stand for something-or-other.

Zen mail - an e-mail message that arrives without text in the message body.

Screenager - an intern in the IT department

Blamestorming - sitting around in a group, discussing why a deadline was missed or a project failed, and who was responsible.

Stress puppy - a co-worker who seems to thrive on being stressed out and whiney.

Seagull manager - a manager that flies in and makes a lot of noise, dumps on everything, and then leaves.

Assmosis - the process by which some people seem to absorb success and advancement by kissing up to the boss rather than working hard.

Salmonized - spending an entire day swimming upstream, only to get screwed and die in the end.

Cube farm - an office filled with cubicles.

oxoxomoron - a person who includes symbolic "hugs and kisses" at the end of their e-mail.

Posted by Cate at 01:20 AM | Comments (4)

Sniglets

Does anyone remember <a href="http://bertc.com/sniglets.htm">Sniglets</a>? I loved them - they always cracked me up! Sniglets are words that don't appear in the dictionary, but should.

Do you blivett*. I do. Constantly. I am always turning my pillow over. I hate when it gets all hot. Ick. I should really buy one of <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=77866&catid=44690&brand=26530&trx=BSMMP-26530&trxp1=HPFP&trxp2=0&trxp3=77866&btrx=BSMMP-26530">these</a>:

*Blivett (blih' vit) - v. To turn one's pillow over and over, looking for the cool spot.

Posted by Cate at 01:06 AM | Comments (2)

August 09, 2003

Fish

Oh - and one of our red platys bought the farm today too... The girls were all excited. M wanted to squeeze it "to see what would happen".
Sigh

Posted by Cate at 02:07 PM | Comments (0)

July 31, 2003

Praying Mantis

This is the praying mantis that I found on my daisies the other night:

Posted by Cate at 09:08 AM | Comments (2)

July 03, 2003

What's a Benny?

Dan mentioned that he didn't know what a bennie was. They are also referred to as shoobies
If you are from north Jersey (anything north of the Driscoll Bridge) or from another state, you are a Benny. Tourists. You know, the guy with the socks and sandals on the beach, dragging a family and huge cooler along. THAT'S a benny. Read about them here.Also, Erin aka Gigglechickhad someone leave a great explanation about bennies. I'll put that in the extended comments. It's a good read!

"A "Bennie", in scientific circles and in Jersey beach culture, means an out of towner, often sterotyped as a "New Yorker", (but that's not necessarily the case).

If you live near a beach in New Jersey, "Bennie" is a species that visits your beach community on weekends in the summer. "Bennie" will invade your local bars, beaches, malls, stores and recreation areas in search of booze, sex, and debauchery. While it is true that many species seek the same types of fun, the "Bennie" species is unusual in that they follow no known social standard. The species is loud, obnoxious, rude, arrogant and will persue it's goals with no regard to local inhabitants. It is important to avoid "Bennies" who appear in public, as they are easily agitated and can react in an aggressive manner, especially if members are seen in a pack (which is quite common).

Both genders of "Bennie" will typically preface sentences with the word "Yo" and will also use phrases such as "Fuckin' A Right" and "Fuck You, You Fucking Peckerhead".

The male is prone to wearing wife beaters, gold chains and is fond of sexual harassment. The females are best described as the type of gal who would consider her greatest achievement to be a cameo in a Nelly video.

For those not familiar with New Jersey, you may say, "Well, if I ever saw a 'Bennie', I would think this species actually originates in New Jersey. The stereotype matches, and hell, I watch the 'Sopranos'!"

Modern science has confirmed that while there are some "Bennie" species indigenous to New Jersey, most actually inhabit and breed in the surrounding metro regions.

Local inhabitants have tolerated this invasion without question for years in the interest of "tourism". It is the burden that these towns must bear for fiscal success."

Posted by Cate at 11:47 PM | Comments (7)

June 13, 2003

Getting Older

Posted by Cate at 12:01 AM | Comments (27)

June 07, 2003

Last post of the evening

Ok gang - there are <a href="http://www.blogshares.com/blogs.php?blog=http%3A%2F%2Fsugar-plum.net%2Fkate%2F">100 shares of KateSpot</a>available on BlogShares. Who wants a piece of me?

G'night! ::blowing kisses::

Posted by Cate at 12:02 AM | Comments (0)

June 02, 2003

Birthday

I am freaking out that my 33rd birthday is fast approaching on June 13th! I am still trying to decide what to do for our 10 year anniversary. I can't even write about it since <a href="http://mrPtoyou.blogspot.com">he</a> reads my blog now ::sticks out tongue::: and would find out what I am or am not planning!

Posted by Cate at 09:03 AM | Comments (4)

May 31, 2003

June

June is a busy month for us. On June 6th, P and I will be celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary. The traditional gift is tin or aluminum. Hmmm..... what to buy?
Also, it's my (and Mom's) birthday on the 13th. P's birthday is the 16th! How weird is that? LOL!
In other news, Debbie and I had cancelled a troop trip due to rain. Well, as I Am typing, the sun is brightly shining in the sky. According to the weather channel, we are due for strong storms. I guess we will see about that.
Off for coffee.

Posted by Cate at 09:20 AM | Comments (3)

May 30, 2003

Did I happen to mention...

that my birthday is in two weeks? In fact, it falls on a Friday. Friday the 13th. How cool is THAT? Did I also mention that I was born on my Mom's 22nd birthday? Just another nifty fact about me.
Dinner tonight was grilled steak, salad, fries, and broccoli. Yum. Too bad it has just started to rain and thunder. Ick. Now I am trapped inside with these people. HELP!

Posted by Cate at 07:22 PM | Comments (5)

May 22, 2003

New hair color

Well - got my color ::ahem:: adjusted tonight. Click below to see after shots.

I should check back into contacts. Or - new glasses. I always look at people over my glasses. Even for pictures.

Posted by Cate at 10:10 PM | Comments (8)

May 17, 2003

HairCut

Well - you asked for it... open at your own risk.. the cut looks ok but I look disgusting.

I go back on Thursday to get the color ::ahem:: adjusted back to a more natural color.

Posted by Cate at 03:12 PM | Comments (10)

April 15, 2003

Cool movies on AMC

Tonight, P and I watched <a href="http://us.imdb.com/Title?0073195"target=_blank>Jaws</a> and we are now watching <a href="http://us.imdb.com/Title?0071877"target=_blank>Murder on the Orient Express</a>.
Jaws always scares the crap out of me. :eek: Besides, I just LOVE Robert Shaw. I liked him best in <a href="http://us.imdb.com/Title?0070735"target=_blank>The Sting</a> as Doyle Lonnegan.

Floyd: Doyle, I KNOW I gave him four THREES. He had to make a SWITCH. We can't let him get away with that.
Doyle Lonnegan: What was I supposed to do -- call him for cheating better than me, in front of the others?

Heh :cheerful: GREAT movie..

Posted by Cate at 11:35 PM | Comments (2)

Bed

I am tired :sleep: Going to bed!

Posted by Cate at 12:26 AM | Comments (1)

April 12, 2003

Better late than never

Hello!
I am still alive - just had a super busy afternoon and evening yesterday.

The Girl Scout meeting was a success - the girls enjoyed making their plastic waterbottle hourglasses. They looked like miniature pugil sticks. Heh - you can imagine what the girls were doing with them :wink:
P had to work late so the girls got McD's for dinner. :goofy:, popped some popcorn and had a girls night in front of the tv, watching the Friday night Disney line-up: That's So Raven, Kim Possible, Lizzie McGuire. Then, I switched it over to Funniest Home Videos. They love that show. We had a great time. They were in bed by 915pm.
Today - M attended a birthday party at a Tae Quon Do place. All kids had a great time. It was an interesting idea. There's not too many places to have birthday parties in the winter. The skate rink, bowling alley or a home party. Good thing M has a summer birthday - this year's party will be a pool party with a magician. I know my bathroom will be a mess by the end of that day :eek:
Well - gotta run. Catch up with ya'll soon!

Posted by Cate at 03:39 PM | Comments (2)

April 10, 2003

Something truly bizzare

Check this out - but don't say I didn't warn you...

Mwahahahahahaha!

Posted by Cate at 12:30 PM | Comments (3)

March 19, 2003

NY Lotto

Does anyone else dislike Danny Aiello as much as I? I cringe when the commercial air. :ugh: :ugh: :ugh:

Posted by Cate at 09:01 AM | Comments (0)

March 14, 2003

Girls Night

P finally got home around 330pm. He is crashed out now - poor guy. :sleep: The girls and I are watching <a href="http://us.imdb.com/Title?0045152"target=_blank>Singing in the Rain.</a> They love it!

They are dancing around my living room right now. M cracked up during the "Make 'em Laugh" scene featuring Donald O'Connor. :laugh:

Posted by Cate at 07:34 PM | Comments (1)

Weekend Plans

My weekends plans are:

Saturday
1. Get to Mall by 10am to do a Girl Scout event with M.
2. After event is over, buy M new sneakers.
3. Buy O some new socks at Old Navy.
4. Go to lunch.
5. Be home before or by 1pm.
6. Take both kids to a playdate by 130pm
7. Be back home by 4pm.
8. Sis in law down around 4pm.
9. Prepare, cook, eat and clean-up dinner.
10. Give both girls a bath.
11. Make sure O gets her medicine.
12. Watch my Saturday night TLC lineup: 2 Trading Spaces shows and What Not to Wear.
13. Attempt to go to bed before midnight.

Sunday
1. Feed the crew breakfast.
2. Take shower and get ready for church.
3. Get to church early and set up lesson.
4. Teach Sunday School.
5. Home from church - make lunches.
6. BJ's Wholesale Club and do some food shopping.
7. Make it back home by 430pm and unpack food, etc.
8. Attempt to make a wholesome (or at least edible!) dinner.
9. Clean up dishes, etc.
10. O - medicine.
11. Kids in bed by 757pm
12. 8pm-10pm - The Sopranos and Six Feet Under.
13. Also - attempt to work on crocheting while watching shows.
14. Try to get to bed by 11am

Fun, huh? :wink:

Posted by Cate at 04:08 PM | Comments (5)

March 13, 2003

Ummm..

Hi
:wave:

Posted by Cate at 10:23 PM | Comments (2)

February 28, 2003

Netflix

Ok - I know a few of you guys out there use Netflix. Good?Bad? I would like some feedback please!

Posted by Cate at 12:20 PM | Comments (6)

February 19, 2003

Top Gun

I just love this movie :heartbeat: VH-1 is running <a href="http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/behind_the_movie/64981/episode_about.jhtml">Behind the Movie - Top Gun</a>
I remember my Mom and I going to see it at the Beach Cinema in <a href="http://bradleybeachonline.com/"target=_blank>Bradley Beach</a>. God - I loved that theater. I think it was $3.00 for admission. Then, after the movie was done, all you had to do was walk across the street to an awesome Italian joint called <a href="http://www.vicspizza.com/"target=_blank>Vics</a>. I haven't eaten there in quite a few years. I think I was pregnant with M the last time P and I were there. :sigh: The good old days.

Posted by Cate at 11:46 PM | Comments (1)

February 14, 2003

Dream

I dreamed last night that I should shave my legs. Pretty subtle, huh?
:cheerful:

Posted by Cate at 11:47 AM | Comments (3)

February 13, 2003

Songs from the 80's

Does anyone remember the song "Don't mess with my toot-toot?" I am listening to an <a href="http://www.wmsluk.com/stationinfo.asp"target=_blank>Internet radio station</a> and it's on right now. I am cracking up! It's almost making me forget about that post that MT ate. Almost.

Posted by Cate at 10:26 AM | Comments (1)

February 06, 2003

Valentine's Day

I bought P his Valentine's Day presents yesterday. I can't write about the gifts because he occasionally reads my blog. :puckerup: Love ya sweetie! :puckerup:

Posted by Cate at 01:11 PM | Comments (0)

February 01, 2003

Saturday

Mary just left about 30 minutes ago. We had a nice time, as usual!! :cheerful:

We headed down to <a href="http://www.shophamilton.com/index.shtml"target=_blank>Hamilton Mall</a> to do some clothes and shoe shopping. I finally picked up a pair of these shoes (Women's All Weather Mocs? by Land's End) in black from Sears:

Talk about comfortable! I love them! I really wanted the pair in red too but I resisted the temptation :laugh: Mary scarfed up 2 pairs of shoes and some new jeans too. I refuse to purchase any new clothes. Heck - I have stuff that hasn't fit for a while so it will be like a new wardrobe anyway!

When we got back home, I BBQ'ed up some steaks. Why is it always raining when I want to grill? Anyway - dinner was delicious and I even have some more points left over! Woohoo! Can anyone say dessert??

Gotta fun - have church in the morning!
:puckerup: :hug:

Posted by Cate at 09:52 PM | Comments (4)

January 31, 2003

Crest WhiteStrips

I broke down and bought some today. Has anyone else ever used them? They feel kinda weird. Of course, since I have them on, I am now dying for a cup of coffee!

On a good note, O didn't cry when I dropped her off at school today.
:thumbsup::thumbsup: So far, so good!

Posted by Cate at 10:46 AM | Comments (4)

January 29, 2003

Laundry

Well - at least I can catch up on the laundry.
:sigh:

Posted by Cate at 11:42 AM | Comments (0)

January 28, 2003

End of Day

There was a parents meeting tonight at the intermediate school. The topic was NJ CAP - Child Assault Prevention: A Community Education Project Teaching Children How To Prevent Physical, Verbal and Sexual Assaults.

In the upcoming weeks, there will be workshops for the students, teaching that it is ok to say "NO!", discussing rights, self protection techniques and roleplays with guided discussion (bully, stranger known adult). P and I decided that M would participate in the program. We spoke to the school counselors and Heather, the woam in charge of this program. Both of them were able to answer our questions and understand our concerns regarding this topic. I am starting to have second thoughts.
Damn. I gotta sleep on this one.

Posted by Cate at 12:29 AM | Comments (4)

January 27, 2003

This is sad

<a href="http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20030126/ap_on_re_us/planes_collide_18"target=_blank>DENVER - One of the victims in the deadly crash of two small planes over Denver was a survivor of the 1999 Columbine High School massacre</a>

Posted by Cate at 12:29 PM | Comments (0)

January 19, 2003

Football

Go Eagles!

Posted by Cate at 03:59 PM | Comments (3)

January 12, 2003

Sad

<a href="http://www.comcast.net/smedia/entertainment_anonymous_full.jsp">Bee Gees member Maurice Gibb dies in Miami</a>

Posted by Cate at 12:44 PM | Comments (2)

January 01, 2003

eBay!

Woohoo! I have 4 auctions up. <a href="http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&include=0&userid=catenj&sort=3&rows=25&since=-1"target=_blank>Anyone wanna buy some Legos</a>?

Posted by Cate at 10:30 PM | Comments (5)

December 26, 2002

Recovering

We survived Christmas.

The girls didn't get to bed last night until midnight! They are pretty cranky today..heck, Husband and I are pretty cranky too!
I am supposed to meet Scott and Shelley tomorrow in NYC. I hope they call me tonight when they arrive at the hotel.
I am just pooped and not up to blogging right now. Maybe later when the kids go to bed.
Big hugs and kisses to everyone. I will visit your blogs later!

Posted by Cate at 05:11 PM | Comments (2)

December 24, 2002

Christmas Wishes from South Jersey

You had better have a Merry Christmas or else THESE 2 will show up on your doorstep.

Merry Christmas from the South... Jersey.

Meet Chris..

and Frenchie..
<img alt="PopXmas.jpg" src="http://sugar-plum.net/kate/PopXmas.jpg" width="450" height="600" border="0" />

I love you guys! :laugh:

Posted by Cate at 03:15 PM | Comments (9)

Drinking and Baking..

sure is a lot of fun!
:crazy:

Posted by Cate at 01:23 PM | Comments (0)

Norad and Santa

<a href="http://kids.noradsanta.org/english/home/index.html">Track Santa</a>

Posted by Cate at 12:25 PM | Comments (0)

Recipe

The recipe for Irish Turkey.

(cross posted at <a href="http://mealtime.blogspot.com/">What's for Dinner</a>)

My Mother in Law, who is from Ireland, makes her turkey this way and it is SO good. That's why I call it Irish Turkey. Prep the bird and place it in the roasting pan. Place strips of bacon (using a 1lb package) over the turkey breast and drums, making sure that there is no exposed turkey. Then bake as usual. The bonus to using the bacon is - no basting... the bacon drips over the bird. Therefore, no need to disturb it while it is roasting! Nothin like a self basting turkey. When the turkey is ready to be carved, pull off the strips of bacon and eat them. Oh my God - it is sooooooooooooooooooo delicious. Talk about heaven! Not recommended for people with any cholesterol problems. My kids fight over it!
I will be making this on New Year's Eve... with a 24lb turkey! I might have 2 use 2lbs of bacon for such a big bird. LOL!

Posted by Cate at 09:54 AM | Comments (1)

December 23, 2002

Bessie Pease Gutmann

I love her artwork. I have bought some from <a href="http://www.tssphoto.com/vt/bpg/bpg.html#other">this place</a>.

Posted by Cate at 12:15 PM | Comments (1)

Saturday Recap

Whatta weekend.

Mary came over and brought a couple gifts for the girls WHICH, by the way, she did NOT have to do! O loves the huge drawing pad and M is now all excited to learn how to crochet. Me too kid.. me too! :cheerful:
 
<img alt="PC210033.JPG" src="http://sugar-plum.net/kate/PC210033.JPG" width="640" height="480" border="0" />
 
Mary also got a small present from the girls... PLAY-DOH!
 
<img alt="PC210034.JPG" src="http://sugar-plum.net/kate/PC210034.JPG" width="640" height="480" border="0" />
 
The kids and Mary watching TV - on the "couch" aka Areobed. Note the 3 of them having a load of fun while P gets cranky at the insulation. Heh!
 
<img alt="PC210036.JPG" src="http://sugar-plum.net/kate/PC210036.JPG" width="640" height="480" border="0" />

Posted by Cate at 10:35 AM | Comments (1)

December 21, 2002

Another busy day!

Mary came down for a visit today. We had a load of fun. The girls are absolutely crazy when she is here - they love her visits. I got my crochet lesson and basically... I suck at it. Hopefully, Mary wasn't too freaked out today (by my lack of crochet ability and the girls acting like little nitwits!) and will come back and give me more lessons!
Of course, now she is in Atlantic City! Lucky her! I stayed home to wrap gifts and get things ready for visiting my dad and step-mom tomorrow after church. We are doing a Christmas dinner and I am looking forward to it.
Husband was doing a lot of work on the walls today, including replacing the insulation and putting up all new sheetrock under the living room windows. He has had a tough day today with the sheetrock and he's pretty grumpy.
Anyway - I am way pooped. I am gonna go read some blogs and then hit the bed. Hard.

Posted by Cate at 11:25 PM | Comments (3)

December 17, 2002

We have a tree!

Well- the tree finally has lights on it. Heck - I even got the star on as well! When M gets home from school, we will start to decorate.

Posted by Cate at 01:04 PM | Comments (1)

Computer

I didn't get home from Bonkos until 1030 last night! Let me tell ya, these ladies can party! I decided to stay on with the group. What better way to get to know some other people.
I couldn't blog last night because P was doing maintenence on the computer, running defrag, etc. So - I decided to organized some of the other gifts for my Mom and Dad and StepMom. I found some little things for the girls that I had forgotten all about. :eek: Guess I'd better hustle and get things wrapped!

Well - the carpet guy is coming out (between 830 - 1030) to measure the living room and hallway. I get to hang around for 2 hours - Yippie!

Posted by Cate at 08:44 AM | Comments (0)

December 16, 2002

Off to Bonkos

Well - I'll be heading out for my final game of Bonkos. I decided to leave the group. My neighbor is leaving the group and so is her mom. They are the only people that I *really* know.

Anyway - I gotta boogie for now! Bye!

Posted by Cate at 06:24 PM | Comments (1)

Crap

Don't ya hate getting sucked into a movie? Even worse, getting sucked into it and not seeing the the beginning. Swordfish is on HBO and I am SO into it right now :sigh: Hugh Jackman - holy cow is he sexy!!! And he's a hacker too. ::drool::
I think I am going to need a cold shower after this movie! Although - John Revolta just killed Halle Berry! Holy ****!

::edited at 1231am::
The helicopter LIFTED a bus? Get the **** out of here!! Although - way cool effect. Did I also mention that I am the only one awake right now?

Posted by Cate at 12:22 AM | Comments (8)

December 12, 2002

Lunchtime

Youngestand I had our usual flurry of errands to run this morning. I did manage to stop at Home Depot and checked out the Berber selections. Not too bad. I am dragging Husband back there tonight to also check them out. I want to order it tonight. I need it installed BY Jan 10th. One of the associates said there shouldn't be any problems ::knocking wood:: especially since I do not want it done by Christmas.
I stopped at Bruno's and picked up our deli order as well as 4 lbs of sweet sausage. Personally, I do not like sausage but the kids and Husband love it. It does flavor the sauce taste pretty damn well!

Posted by Cate at 12:06 PM | Comments (4)

December 11, 2002

Star Trek

Ya know, the guy who played Q (<a href="http://us.imdb.com/Name?de+Lancie,+John">John de Lancie</a>) on TNG is just adorable. I just love him.

Posted by Cate at 11:13 PM | Comments (2)

November 27, 2002

I am thankful for...

Ok Joanie - here ya go...

1. my children. They are truly the center of my universe.
2. P. My rock. Always there for me. :puckerup:
3. my parents. Without you, I wouldn't even be here.
4. my brother. He's awesome. Grew up so well.
5. good friends. I have made so many, off and online. I *heart* you guys.
6. my health. I am lucky.
7. my home. Again, I am lucky.
8. the ability to stay home and raise my children.
9. my inlaws. Without them, I wouldn't have P or his wonderful sisters.
10. life. Need I say more?
11. living in the USA. I am proud to be an American.
12. being able to vote.
13. the Internet.
14. authors. Nothing is better than curling up with a book!
15. musicians. For creating such variety in music.
16. art. I appreciate (and envy) those that are gifted.
17. choices... and the sense to choose wisely.
18. Nathaniel Briggs, inventor of the washing machine.
19. education.
20. farmers and truckers.

Posted by Cate at 10:04 PM | Comments (2)

November 25, 2002

So tired

I am home from Bonkos. I had a great time and even won a prize for high game. I won a beautiful metal lantern that I can put a votive candle inside. Next month is the Christmas exchange. Woohoo! Should be fun.

Husband is getting sick - poor guy. I think I will be checking out a few reads and hitting the sack.. I still need to finish up some laundry (chuck wet stuff into dryer) and I might jump into the shower tonight, before bed.

I will also be having Mary and Rich over the day after Thanksgiving! Be prepared to eat! I am looking forward to meeting Rich and I can't wait to see Mary again! I suppose I will have to wait until the girls are finished with her first! :laugh: I did rent Star Wars Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones for Friday. I know Eldest will be thrilled to watch them. She's seen the other 3 Star Wars and really likes them. I think Husband and I have geeked her out... poor thing!
G'night!

Posted by Cate at 10:40 PM | Comments (1)

Thanks Hilary!

I received my ornament today! It is so pretty. Thank you SO much <a href="http://www.clutteredlife.com/main.html">Hilary</a>!

Posted by Cate at 04:41 PM | Comments (0)

Food Shopping

O and I headed over to ShopRite this morning right after M got on the bus. One hour, $166 poorer and a free 21lb turkey later, we made it back home before 10am. It took me half an hour just to put everything away. I had to re-arrange my freezer to stuff that big ole turkey in there. Since we are eating Thanksgiving dinner at my Dad and Step-Mom's place, I am saving the turkey for New Years Eve. This year, I am going to let M stay up, if she can make it! I don't want to go out - been there and done that. It's amateur night. I'll pick up some great wine and maybe even some beer and we'll have a great time. Well - I know *I* will, especially with the wine! LOL!

Posted by Cate at 11:17 AM | Comments (1)

November 22, 2002

Eww!

<img alt="lizadavid.jpg" src="http://sugar-plum.net/kate/lizadavid.jpg" width="172" height="233" border="0" />
 
(link via <a href="http://www.comcast.net/smedia/entertainment_anonymous_full.jsp">Comcast</a>)
LIZA Minnelli and hubby David Gest have blamed a 29-year-old VH1 producer named Rob Weiss for destroying their reality show, "Liza & David," before it even started.
Weiss, who had a blowout with Gest the night VH1 was filming a dinner party at Minnelli's uptown apartment, was fingered by the couple Wednesday night on "Larry King Live."

Ya know - the words "fingered, Liza, David" should never ever be in the same story.
::shiver::

Posted by Cate at 06:16 PM | Comments (5)

November 21, 2002

Kudos to Kevin Sorbo!

<a href="http://www.foodallergy.org/press_releases/sorbo.html">Hollywood Star to Help Promote Food Allergy Awareness
Actor Kevin Sorbo Kicks Off Food Allergy Prevention Ad Campaign </a>

FAIRFAX, Va., Nov. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Actor Kevin Sorbo, star and action
hero in the television series "Hercules: The Legendary Journey" and "Andromeda," is kicking off a new public service ad campaign to help prevent food allergies in at-risk infants. Sorbo, holding his young son, is featured in the ad being launched by the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), to educate expectant and nursing mothers.

Thank goodness there will finally be some serious publicity about this. Perhaps I won't be seen as "over-protective" :banghead: People. just. don't. get. it. :banghead:

Posted by Cate at 11:31 PM | Comments (2)

November 20, 2002

As Promised

"Our school building is located within a 10 mile emergency-planning zone of the nuclear generating station. In January 2001, the Federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission amended its policy on the availability and usage of the over-the-counter drug, potassim iodide (KI), during a radiological emergency. As a result, the state of NJ revised its policy regarding the administration of KI to the general population within 10 miles of a nuclear station. Part of the revised plan allows for the storage and use of KI at schools located in the 10-mile emergency planning zone.
<a href="http://www.state.nj.us/health/er/piodide.htm">KI</a> is an over-the-counter drug that protects the thyroid from exposure to radioactive iodine and can reduce the risk of thyroid cancer after a severe nuclear emergency resulting in a release of radiation. It is a supplement to evacuation or sheltering. Evacuation and sheltering remain NJ's primary public protective actions in the event of an accident at any nuclear generating station. Students attending school in the **** Township School District will be evacuated to Richard Stockton State College in Pomona.
Please read the attached KI information sheets and mark the appropriate box of the attached KI permission slip. This will reflect your choice to have your child receive or not receive KI in the event of a radiological release. This form will remain in effect as long as your child attends this school district, unless you notify us in writing that you have changed your choice."

This is what M brings home to me from school.
The letter ends with "If you have any questions about the school's program, please contact your school nurse." NURSE? Hell - if I had questions, I will be contacting YOUR ass Ronald, not bugging the school nurse over school policies. Last time I checked, YOU are the damn superintendent.
Needless to say, my answer will be NO. There is NO way in hell that some "designated individual" (which is how the information sheet phrased it) will be dosing my child with ANYTHING. I live approximately 5 minutes from the school. In case of any emergency, *I* will pick up my child from school. I will drive up on the goddamn lawn (if necessary) and get her. Just try stop me. No way are they putting her on a school bus (and possibly exposing her to radiation) and driving her OUT of town. 45 MINUTES out of town. There will be 4 schools evacuated, in case of emergency. I do not believe that we have enough buses to transport all of the children. M's school alone is K-2. There are 10 kindergarten classes with about 24 kids per class. Combine that with 20 1st and 2nd grades. That is just her school. What school gets "priority"? Also, if there is an accident with the nuclear plant, I can only imagine how jam packed all the major roads will become - and I sure as hell do not want my poor daughter stuck on a school bus, waiting to be poisoned. Go only knows when I would be able to physically retrieve her from the college.
It's nice that KI will prevent thyroid disease and reduce the risk of thyroid cancer (only if taken at the right time). I will purchase my own pills and give them to my child as needed. God forbid - IF there is such an emergency, I do not want my daughter's last moments spent with some room mom trying to shove drugs down her throat.
All the parents I have spoken to regarding this form agree with me. I certainly do not think that the school board has any realistic ideas about a possible emergency like this. I can't say for sure it is all on the school board but it is completely ridiculous.

Posted by Cate at 10:37 AM | Comments (5)

Jacko the freakin' Wacko

Ya know, Michael Jackson is just a scumbag. Who the **** dangles a baby (with it's face covered no less) over a balcony. Where the hell is CPS? Jeez - just <a href="http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/021120/170/2pzrd.html">LOOK at him</a> people! He's insane. He looks like he is goddamn laughing.
I gotta go to bed.

Posted by Cate at 12:41 AM | Comments (6)

November 18, 2002

Ornament Exchange

Oooh - gotta mail that off tomorrow! I hope she likes it!
(I can't say whom - yet!)

Posted by Cate at 10:37 PM | Comments (2)

Monday

I have been sucky about posting lately..

O kept up up late last night. Poor kid - she still has a wicked cold. Runny nose, stuffy nose, runny nose, stuffy nose... you get the idea?
I still have a cold too - I have been sneezing and blowing my nose for most of the afternoon and evening. Gee - I can't imagine howI caught this cold? Oh yeah - O sneezed all over me, several times. Gross. She fell asleep in my arms around 545pm. I decided to let her sleep through. Of course, she woke up around 930pm, with one helluva runny nose and coughing. She got some nighttime cough meds (to dry up that poor little nose) and is now using her nebulizer. She had something to eat a little while ago so I am hoping that she will be going back to bed within the next hour ::crossing fingers::
I am now the proud owner of a <a href="http://www.dirtdevil.com/products/uprights/M091200.asp">Dirt Devil Platinum Force </a> vacuum. I picked up it from K-Mart. I was going to purchase it from Wal-Mart but the box was all battered looking.. like the receiving guys were kicking it.. No freakin way I am gonna spend $179 on that!

Posted by Cate at 10:34 PM | Comments (1)

State Swap

<a href="http://progoddess.blogspot.com/">Rachel</a> had a great idea, about a month ago, for a group of people to swap items. The catch, the items had to somehow relate to the state in which you live.
I just received my package from <a href="http://newsouth.blogspot.com/">Shannon</a>. Holy cow - it was CHOCK full of cool things.

<img alt="StateSwapStuff.JPG" src="http://sugar-plum.net/kate/PB180008.JPG" width="640" height="480" border="0" />
 
Check out the Krispy Kremes (already opened! Hehe!). What about those pork skins? YIKES - people eat those things? :boggled: I also got corn bread, some AWESOME magnets, (how on earth did she know I liked those? :wink:), a magnet, postcard, trivia book about NC, 2 cans of Cheerwine soda (pop?) and a jar of BBQ sauce called "Lip Lickin'"!
Thanks Shannon - you rock!

Posted by Cate at 09:58 PM | Comments (2)

November 15, 2002

Retro Gal

(link snagged from <a href="http://www.ailurophile.com/">Christine</a>)
 
<a href="http://quizilla.com/users/karaisma4all/quizzes/What%20Type%20Of%20Retro%20Gal%20Are%20You%3F/"><img src="http://images.quizilla.com/K/karaisma4all/1036949202_respinup22.jpg" border="0" alt="patriotic"> What Type Of Retro Gal Are You?</a> brought to you by <a href="http://quizilla.com">Quizilla</a>

Posted by Cate at 12:29 AM | Comments (1)

November 14, 2002

Script

I picked up a new script for collapsing entries and comments from <a href="http://www.scriptygoddess.com/archives/001140.php#001140">ScriptyGoddess</a>. Thanks <a href="http://www.theworkingmom.net/">Jenn</a> (and MaryD for suggesting it!)

Posted by Cate at 10:33 PM | Comments (0)

I'm Alive

Thank you so much for all of your kind emails and comments! They were greatly appreciated!

Today, after I drove Eldest to school, Youngestand I went to the mall. Hell - that's one way to feel better, right? I had to return a couple dresses to the Disney Store. We wandered around and checked out the toy store. Youngestran right for the Groovy Tunes: Electronic Sing-A-Long Keyboard with Bench. She asked if I could buy it for her today. Uhh - I don't think so. Perhaps she will get it for her birthday, which is 5 days after Christmas.
We also stopped in Gap Kids and Childrens Place. I found a bunch of things for the girls at CP, including their holiday dresses. This one is Eldest's dress and this is Youngest's jumper, which will be worn with this underneath. Very cute - and pretty reasonably priced! I also picked up socks, clearance rack hair stuff and bracelets (stocking stuffers!) and long sleeved onesie/bodysuits for Olivia. With her scratching all the time (eczema), this will help keep her belly covered.
After all that, I promised Youngestthat she could throw pennies into the fountain, inside the mall. She tossed 10 pennies, laughing and yelling "Look at me!" It was pretty cute!
Then, it was off to McD's for an Youngestfriendly lunch before we hit Target. They had some gorgeous ornaments on display. I picked a few up for me. I also found a couple Hello Kitty shirts for Eldest. Bonus - they were on clearance! Yay!
Youngestcrashed out on the ride home. The sun was shining right in the car - hell, I was getting sleepy! We made it back home, killed a half hour and then picked up Eldest from the bus stop.
I made dinner while Eldest did her homework. She is doing SO well in school. Her teacher is supposed to be moving her up to the next reading level very soon. She also gets her school picture taken tomorrow! We picked out her outfit and I am going to put her hair into 2 ponytails. She also has gym AND Brownies.
The girl across the street is done with field hockey! YAY YAY YAY! My babysitter is back! She will be coming over tomorrow to watch Youngestwhile I go to Brownies. ::phew:: It's tough when Youngestis there.
I picked up Eldest's nut order tonight from Debbie's (troop leader) house. We will be delivering them sometime this week. On Saturday, we are all heading into Brooklyn to visit my brother - the girls are so excited about that. I've never been there so I am looking forward to checking out the area. Turns out that he lives very close to where my step-mom grew up. How cool is that?
Anywho - I am pooped. I will be catching up on my reads. I hope you are all well! ::smooches::

Posted by Cate at 09:56 PM | Comments (0)

November 13, 2002

Still Icky

Yuck -
Still feeling icky. P and I are going to watch "Joe Somebody" and I will probably go to bed.
:yawn:
G'night!

Posted by Cate at 08:32 PM | Comments (8)

Cold and Dreary Day

Ugh - still feeling cruddy. I am on Robitussin Cough and Cold Liqui-caps.

We also signed the new mortgage today ! Wooho! 5.375% Thankyouverymuch. We get a slight grace period and start the payments January 1st. M's nut order came in so we need to pick them up tonight. P is putting up the corner bead on the wall - YAY!
I'll try to write more later... if I am conscious!

Posted by Cate at 02:26 PM | Comments (2)

November 12, 2002

Rainy Tuesday

I had a great chat with Mary D. She just RAWKS! I am also cooking a yummy sauce, thanks to <a href="http://www.indierocklibrarian.com/">Mary C</a>. It smells SO good in my house right now. I think that this will make a delicious dinner for a cold and rainy day like today. I will post the recipe, if she says it's ok to share it! :wink:

Posted by Cate at 12:23 PM | Comments (3)

And about the Sopranos

It wasn't ON HBO last night!! I was ALL over that damn channel and it wasn't on!! :cry: ARRGGHHH!
Maybe it's on again tonight ::looking hopeful::

Posted by Cate at 09:52 AM | Comments (2)

November 11, 2002

Back to normal... I hope!

M is going back to school tomorrow! Hooray! In fact, both kids were in bed by 8pm. I caught the new Monk episode with Willie Nelson and it was a scream! I love Tony Shalhoub! I have to.. no..I MUST.. watch the Sopranos tonight!! P and I are both dying (hehe) to know what happened!

Posted by Cate at 09:56 PM | Comments (1)

Sick

Ugh -
I have laryngitis!

I get it every damn year. Of course, today I was supposed to go up to my Mom's place to help her with some stuff. I can't go up there now that I have this cold.
CRAP CRAP CRAP!

Posted by Cate at 10:42 AM | Comments (2)

November 10, 2002

The Sopranos!

I missed the first 35 minutes of the show - but the last 25 minutes..
::spoiler inside::

Holy ****!
:eek:
I can't believe that TONY whacked Ralphie! I don't know WHY he did it tho - something about the horse?? I tuned in right at the beginning of the fight! Arrghh! Now I have to wait until tomorrow to find out what the hell happened!

Posted by Cate at 11:25 PM | Comments (3)

November 08, 2002

Ikea - follow-up

Well -

5.5 hours, 165 miles and 55 million 18-wheelers later, we are home.

I got such cool stuff for the girls.. a ladybug umbrella, a tent, moppe box (for Youngest's desk) and some pretty neat candles too.

I gotta finish getting dinner ready.. I'll chat more later!
TA!

Posted by Cate at 04:15 PM | Comments (1)

Ikea!

Well- we are up and getting ready to go. I am going to pack a lunch for them to eat in the car. This way, I don't have to worry about what I can feed Miss O. Especially since there is really nothing she can eat there. The kids are excited about seeing the airplanes Ikea is right across the turnpike from Newark International Airport. I browsed the catalog yesterday and put Post-It notes all over the pages!
Also, this weekend, Husband will be building a full height wall between out dining area and living room. Woohoo!
Well- gotta run!
Catch ya later!

Posted by Cate at 09:42 AM | Comments (4)

Friday Five

Answers below

1. Did you vote in your last elections? Abso-freakin-lutely!

2. Do you know who your elected representatives are? ::snort:: Yes - damn crooks.

3. Have you ever contacted an elected representative? Yes - a long time ago.
If so, what was it about? There was an issue concerning my Girl Scout troop. Let's just say it was rectified rather quickly!

4. Have you ever participated in a demonstration? Nope.

5. Have you ever volunteered in an election? No - but I might in the next presidential election. What was the result?

Posted by Cate at 12:39 AM | Comments (0)

November 07, 2002

Home Interiors

I was at a Home Interiors party tonight.

It was fun. I bought a couple things. I hope Debbie made some money off the show!

Tomorrow, the girls and I are heading up to IKEA! WOOHOO! Shopping! It will be SO hard not to spend a lot of money - they have such cool stuff!

Posted by Cate at 10:56 PM | Comments (0)

November 01, 2002

Feeling better

Well - the kids got to bed right on time, thank goodness! I thought I was going to lose it tonight!

I folded a few loads of laundry and watched the American Bandstand 50th anniversary show. Man - some of those people look pretty bad. But Dick, well, he looks pretty damn good for 152 years old ::snicker::

I caught Monk tonight. It was really good! Adam Arkin co-starred. I've liked him since he played "Adam" in "Northern Exposure". I've decided that Tony Shalhoub is just adorable. He's just so.. so.. squeezable!

No big plans (for once!) this weekend except for my nephew's christening on Sunday. Tomorrow, we will do a couple errands and head over to the library. Hopefully, it will be a nice and easy day.

I hope you all have a great weekend!

Posted by Cate at 11:12 PM | Comments (5)

October 31, 2002

Gunned Down

Rapper Jam Master Jay, part of Run DMC, killed in shooting

Ok - I am not a rap fan but I did enjoy Run DMC. Hell - they were the groundbreakers in bring back Aerosmith!

But these few lines caught my eye:
Chuck D, the founder of the hip-hop group Public Enemy, blamed record companies and the advertising for perpetuating "a climate of violence" in the rap industry.
"When it comes to us, we're disposable commodities," he said

What does he mean by us? Does he mean rappers? Black people? I am the first one to think that the record companies truly suck but to suggest that the record company wants all the rappers to shoot/kill each other.. that's just bull. Did the record company just hand out guns and ammo at the signing deal? "Money? We don't want no stinkin' money. We want to be armed!"
Hell - listen to some of the lyrics.. a lot of rap/hiphop promotes (or suggests) violence. This poor bastard was in his recording studio. The members of Run DMC would let local musicians record for free at the studio.

(Run-DMCWebSite)

Posted by Cate at 08:56 AM | Comments (0)

Happy Halloween!

(link snagged from Curly Pumpkin GIF animations)

Posted by Cate at 07:21 AM | Comments (0)

October 30, 2002

Hmmm

I think I will have to tinker some more with these templates... but I think this look might do me for now.

I need to figure out where my images are uploading. Plus - I will want to change the colors (or lack thereof). For now, it's pretty clean and simple. I kinda like it this way but I want to learn more about MT. So - I will tinker away!

Posted by Cate at 11:09 PM | Comments (4)

Cross posted

Allison will be my new hostess (with the mostess, I might add!). She kindly set up a test blog for me to play with. Oy - MT is a lot more work. But, I am not complaining... yet.. ::grin:: I got a bit of a head start on the templates last night, until we lost power a little before 11pm. Nothing flickered or wavered.. just POOF! No power. Whoa - it was weird. Very surreal - the entire neighborhood was completely dark. Add cold and rain to that. YIKES! It was only out for 20 minutes, thank goodness. I would hate to lose heat and water for an extended period of time. Today is my Father in Law's birthday. I have to have the kids call him when Eldest gets home from school this afternoon. Our church is having a mischief night party for all kids in the area. They are expecting a large turnout. I don't know if Eldest is going to go or not. It runs from 6-9pm and she is usually in bed by 815-830. I think we will pass for tonight - she doesn't do too well when she loses sleep. Plus - she has a party after school tomorrow until 6pm. Life is good!