I Love Lent....Because I Love Me Some Fish Sandwiches

So it is that time of the year again…..time to celebrate Lent. HOLA!!

What does Lent mean? It means a time of reflection, sacrifice, self-denial, penitence, prayer, and giving me back my fillet-o-fish…give me that fish. (Seriously, fish sandwiches ROCK and so does that commercial)

The period of lent is very important, and getting in the proper frame of mind, body and soul to get ready for the Resurrection is very import. Part of the process involves doing away with certain vices we may have in our life....and I haves me many. As a Catholic it was always taught, though it is not mandatory (what something not mandatory in Catholicism?! GASP) that during Lent it is also good to either give something up or do something to help others as a way of sacrifice to help us prepare during this time of year.

As a kid I don’t think you really cared about the deeper meaning of giving something up it was just 40+ days without pop or candy or chocolate and no meat on Fridays. I am not saying that the understanding of what I was doing wasn’t there, but really it just seemed like nothing more than a pain in my catholic behind. Plus I would always try to give something up that I really didn’t want that much or something very specific, like I am giving up lime sherbert or starbursts.

As I got older I felt it was more important to do things during that time, like maybe actually go to church or volunteer. I also tried to do things like I will not curse or not be cynical. But shit, that felt like it was more of a chore than a real sacrifice so what was the point. So I stopped doing anything with Lent for awhile. See over the past few years I have really been questioning religion. Not so much my actual FAITH but behind all the incense smoke, kneeling, psalms, and stale bread I have wondered what my role in the Catholic church was and what I believed in and what I didn’t. I know I am suppose to believe certain things or feel certain ways and not questions the church, but WHY should I feel that and why shouldn’t I question my curch?! Plus I feel many of the rules of the Catholic Church are outdated and simply ridiculous.  And as much as I joke and question I am serious about my faith…I just don’t take every detail seriously.

So as I approach 30 I have begun to think about my faith, my religion and what I am really doing with it all. I realized that I will easily criticize and question things within the Catholic Church and I will also ask people numerous questions to try to help me figure everything out (see below). But shouldn’t I be trying to find out those answers on my own? And maybe I shouldn’t be criticizing without a full breathe of knowledge either. I mean, I haven’t even read the bible. Even in Catholic School it was never pushed to actually read the bible, we shouldn’t questions things but just obey. Riiiight. So a month ago I thought, as I try to figure out my religious path, maybe I should actually try reading the bible and then if I want to criticize it at least I will have the knowledge to back it up. See, always thinking.

So back to Lent, I am going to start reading the bible during the Lenten season. I also thought, as this is not really a vice that maybe I should give the giving something up thing another try….but actually give something up that isn’t easy and requires some sort of will power. So I am giving up brussel sprouts. NO, I kid. I am giving up all confectionary treats and pop. Ok, not kidding. This includes desserts of any kind as well as candy or anything that could be considered a sweet treat. I figured if I am going to do this then I need to do it right and go all in. Wish me luck.

On a side note: I actually made a pan of chocolate chip cookies Tuesday night when I decided to do something for Lent just so I could have some cookies before I gave them up for 40+ days. I am sure if Jesus had all the ingredients to make cookies for his last supper he would have done the same thing, however he didn’t because there was no flour. He had asked Peter three times to pick some up at the store but nothing. Dang-it Peter, I would have much rather be having chocolate chip cookies and wine at church than bread and wine. Whatever.


So does anyone give things up or do things for Lent? Thoughts in general on the season of Lent and giving stuff up? Hey, why not….how about even thoughts on your own feelings towards religion and finding your place?

Let it be known, I am SO open to different perspectives on religion and do not criticize someone else’s beliefs. I find people’s beliefs truly fascinating and want to learn about other’s religions and thoughts on religion and this is the one subject matter I don’t like to have any debate on.

I Was Just Wondering….

How old is too old to want to go to the new Harry Potter theme park at Universal Studios?!

I know the answer has to be nowhere close to 30 so I am safe, right?! (Terry told me 15…whatever, what does he know anyways.)




I was also wondering, how old is too old to go to the new Harry Potter theme park AND dress up like a wizard?!

Again, I am most likely fine but maybe I will just take our Marauder's Map and wand as I would hate to come off as too much of a dork. Plus it is hard to wear a cape and hat while you play quidditch.

Two Cats, A Bored Girl, A Camera, and A Blog.

Ok, I am officially bored.

T. is in class 2 evenings a week after work, 10:30-6:30 Saturdays, and works sundays and though I do chores around the house when I am alone, I may have a little too much time on my hands. What do I do when I am bored….I annoy my cats by taking a crazy amount of pictures of them. (You know how some of your pets pose when they see the camera, well the other day I got it out and Belle actually ran away…..damn, I wish I would have gotten a picture of that.)

I know there are people who may not be fans of cats but I have two of the cutest cats ever. (Insert: That's what they all say.) They are like a cross between a dog, a cat, a bunny, and a wild boar. It is awesome. They are not these boring cats that just hid and sleep all day, no sirs; they want you to know they are here and will do anything to get your attention. Of course they also do just sleep all day but they look very cute while doing so.  We have also determined that Sebastian is alot like Terry, pretty chill but can also be a grumpy old man at times.  Belle, so they say, is like me...a bit spazzy, a bit annoying, a bit needy, and totally adorable! (I may have added that last one) And as my blog is entitled wrestling kitties I feel that it is my duty (haha, duty) to post pictures of my cats and will be doing this on a more regular basis. I am so bored I have even taken the time to put captions under the pictures. (Note: I am not a crazy cat lady yet HOWEVER when T. goes away for a year to finish school and if I am posting pictures of my cats every day…. then I may need an intervention. I'm just say'n.)

This is Sebastian. "Think thin, think thin...um a little help here."

This is Belle.  "I am practicing how to be cat-tortionist."

......

These pictures happened within a course of 10 minutes. 

She just likes to see how much he will take.

"Hey, does this bother you?!"

"No?  Ok, I will just sleep like this for awhile."

"What if I do this with all my paws, will that be a problem?"

"What about now...am i too close?"

"How about I just hug you like this.  I feel I need to be this close to you."

"No reaction at all....well what if I bite you now!"

Shortly after, he got off the couch and she slept in the middle of the couch for hours.

.....

"Aw...this is the life.  Where is my SPF 45 and glass of milk?"

"What are you looking at?!  This is between the two of us."

"I really really hate you right now."

"No, you go ahead and take a few more pictures. I am fine."

"Do you think we are freaking them out yet?"

"Holy Shit did you see the size of that rabbit?!"

Um, ok I think I am done....for now.

Well What Other Words Have I Been Saying Wrong?!

So last night we were watching TV when a lady said the word “wheelbarrow”.

I instantly start laughing and say “Wheelbarrow, what the heck is that?! Doesn’t she mean wheelbarrel?!” To which know it all Terry says “No Jenn, she said it right. It is wheelbarrow. It is a common mistake, like when people pronounce it FebUary and not FebRUary.”

Um, what the heck, when did that happen?! I am almost 30 years old I had absolutely NO IDEA that it was wheelbarrow. I mean wheelbarrow doesn’t even make sense and sound right…wheelbarrel sounds so much better.

I seriously feel like such a dufus, however I am 100% certain there are many more words I am not saying correctly.  *sigh*


And for the record:


A wheelbarrow is a carrier, usually having only one wheel, consisting of a tray bolted to two handles and two legs. While known mostly as a device for carrying small loads for the household gardener, a wheelbarrow is often also used in construction and industry for carrying larger loads.


The birthplace of the modern wheelbarrow was China, possibly as early as 100 B.C. One early version consisted of a large single wheel at or near the front of a platform. The load would be placed behind the wheel, and the operator would lift the heavy end and push the load. Sometimes a small basket would be used to carry the load, and was similar to rickshaws.


Unlike Chinese wheelbarrows, European wheelbarrows were designed to carry small loads over short distances. It is difficult to trace the progression of the wheelbarrow from China to Europe. Possibly, Arab traders brought it to the Middle East and Europeans learned of it during the Crusades. Ancient Greeks might have used the wheelbarrow for construction, while the Romans might have adapted it for agriculture. After Rome fell, the wheelbarrow could have remained in use in Byzantium until the Crusaders learned of it during their journeys. However, it is most likely that it was an independent invention of the late middle ages, created by putting a wheel on the two-person handbarrow already in use for carrying such items as stones or sheaves of corn.

MY Fitness Challenge!

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Movie Reviews – Introducing The H-Plus Rating Scale

Over the last couple months T & I have seen our fair share of movies. (I think all we do is watch movies) Some of these movies are new in the theater and some we watched on DVD.

Because we love movies so much, but do not believe the current ratings systems are a good way to truly judge a movie, T & I came up with our own ratings scale. Introducing the H-Plus rating scale below.

A typical movie ratings system will give a movie an A, B-, D+ but what does a B- really mean?! Or what about stars? What does it mean to have 2 stars out of four? Should we see that movie or is it just OK. So one day while we were ranting about movies we came up with our own ratings system. (we do stuff like this) Our rating system is simple; the more snacks, bigger sizes of snacks, and/or better combinations of snacks the better the movie is. How easy is that?! No stars, no letters, no thumbs up/thumbs down….just a system based on food, and we can all understand food. Our philosophy is that if it is a great movie it is worth spending the money to get all the extra snack foods. And if it isn’t as good then it is not worth spending the money on food. I understand this system may not make any sense to anyone other than T & I, but it seriously makes sense to us!



Examples: Please note you can change the foods to fit your favorite movie snacks, these are just ours.

The best movie may consist of: Jumbo popcorn with butter & salt, jumbo Mountain Dew, pretzel bites with cheese, slice of pizza and a box of snowcaps….Then go eat a couple Tums while talking about the movies awesomeness. This is for only the BEST of movies, and a combination of food like this can not be taken lightly. Very few movies reach this pinnacle of notoriety!

Average movie: Medium popcorn with a medium Sprite.

Bad movie: Just chew gum and bring your own can of pop.

So here are a few of my latest movie reviews (there were seriously about 15 new movies we have seen in the last 2 months, so I had to compress my list!):

In Theaters:

Legion – Basically God is fed up with the human race and sends Angels to make a bunch of easily killed but stretchy zombie people to destroy this pregnant girl’s unborn child…a child that apparently will change the course of the world. However one Angel, Michael, comes down to attempt to save the human race from destruction by trying to save this child. I love religious based or apocalypse type movies but there was one small problem with this movie, IT SUCKED. The biblical references were as subtle as genital herpes and there was SO much talking and bad acting that I, for a moment, understood why God was angry with these people.
(Bring a can of orange fanta and sweet-tarts from the picked through leftover Halloween candy.)


Daybreakers – It is a vampire movie, so if you do not like vampire movies and the gore that comes with them this is not a movie for you. However, I adore vampire movies and had high hopes for this. And it wasn’t that bad, though not that great either. The idea is that vampires are the dominant species and are taking the humans blood supply and keeping them in the most literal version of a blood bank. Life is great until they start to run out of blood…oh what to do then?! The movie was OK until the end...I was kind of like is that it?! Again, I liked the idea of the movie more so than the execution and acting of the movie, but was entertained because it was about Vampires.
(Small popcorn plain with a large sprite....vampire movies make me thirsty)

Sherlock Holmes - Really really good! I was a bit weary of this movie because of all the hype, and typically with all the hype comes a half-ass movie. Not the case for this one! Besides the hotness that is Robert Downey Jr, the movie was very entertaining, had a really good flow, great costumes and scenery, and was fun to watch.
(Medium popcorn with butter, Large Pepsi, a box of junior mints, and share pretzel bites and cheese with hubby)


On Video:

Family Guy: Something, Something, Something Darkside – HILARIOUS, stupid and completely ridiculous all in one…what else would you expect?! I laughed and then had moments of “oh no they didn’t” which made it even more awesome. It really is just a longer version of the show, done Star Wars style. If you don't like the show you will not like this.
(Splurge on the Jumbo popcorn with butter & salt but bring your own pop with a screw top cap to prevent spilling while laughing)

500 Days of Summer – I thought this was a really cute movie and I thought Zoey Deschanell & Joseph Gordon-Levitt were very cute together. I also liked the way they jumped from different days during the 500 days and that this wasn’t a traditional “love story”. I would watch this again, infact I would own it for one of those simple and fun movies to watch.
(Share with your significant other a Large popcorn with butter and large Pepsi, but you should each bring your own bag of M&M's)

Whip-It – LOVED this movie! I thought it was cute, funny, and it made me want to be on a roller derby team. (hmmmm, I wonder what my name would be?!) I appreciate these types of movies as even though they are slightly predictable, they are still highly entertaining and really make you feel for all the characters in the movie. Way to go Drew, great movie!
(Large popcorn with butter, Medium Pepsi, box of peanut M&M’s, and a few jawbreakers.)


More movies reviews to come........

You Love Me, You Really Really Love Me

I have been nominated for the Beautiful Blogger award by the lovely Two Pretzels; why thank you very much!! Check out her totally awesome blog HERE. I love this stuff, so here we go!

Here are the rules.

The Rules:

1. Thank the person who nominated me for this award. Of Course!
2. Copy the award & place it on my blog. Done.
3. Link to the person who nominated me for this award. Done.
4. Share 7 interesting things about myself. (See below).
5. Nominate 7 bloggers. (See below).

My 7 "Interesting" things:

1. When I was in middle school we competed individually with other schools to write a commercial for earth day and draw a picture with it. The winner would have their commercial played regularly on the radio and their picture made into a billboard for Earth Day. I was one of the 8 or so finalists and got to read my commercial on the radio so people could vote! I was at a Catholic school at the time and my stuff was entitled “And on the 8th day” and showed this forest and pond with trash everywhere and animals surrounded by trash and even had a duck with a six pack plastic ring around its neck and my commercial were these two animals talking about how we trashed this beautiful world God had made…pretty creative for a 6th grader, right?! I didn’t win, maybe a bit too religious, but it rocked and I got to hear myself on the radio and go to the station to record a commercial like the pros do!

2. My oh so lovely and considerate husband thinks it is HI-larious to grab my big toes or thumbs because when he does I seriously become virtually immobile and will start crying. I don’t know why, but when he grabs my big toe or thumbs I literally become unable to move and I hate that feeling of being trapped. Ok, maybe not so much interesting as weird.

3. During my summer internship at a resort in Florida, I got to dress up in a costume as a giant Toucan and walked through the resort meeting kids and guests. It was hot and stinky and I LOVED it. I think I want to be a mascot when I grow up.

4. Though maybe not really interesting: I slept with my stuffed animal named Kitty until I turned 29. I only stopped because I had gotten 2 eye infections in the last 4 years (one of which was on my 29th birthday last year) so I figured it may be time to retire my germ infested, bacteria laden stuffed animal for good. She still sleeps next to my bed and goes on trips with me though.

5. I am a 3 time hairy buffalo fruit bobbing champion. I have the pictures to prove it. My parents are so proud.

6. I hated avocado up until a couple of years ago. Now I cannot get enough of them, I seriously LOVE avocado.

7. I talk about my sister over at Skulls and Crossbones who is almost 22, but did you know I also have two younger brothers who live in FL. One is 20 and one is 17….boy that makes me feel old as I am almost 30 and my siblings are all so young!


Ok, I nominate: (Sorry, I just noticed there may be duplicates on other's blogs!)

1. My extremely witty and hilarious friend over at My Reality. (Though, like Two Pretzels said, I know you are rather busy with your beautiful new addition and do not expect any comments or blog posts, but we all think you are a Beautiful Blogger!!!!)

2. My new crafty friend who I will be stalking next year when T. is in Cinci., A Couple More Hours

3. My fun friend with great taste in music over at Write Here, Write Now

4. My lovely sister, Skulls And Crossbones, who when she does blog in between school and work is just HILARIOUS

5. To Athena’s Bees who is SO funny and sarcastic (which I love) and is always eager to help others out (which is a very unique & amazing characteristic).

6. To Aimless Oasis who, even though we do not know each other, I can tell is such a positive person!

7. To 2 Peas in My Pod (or now three peas!!) who I enjoy reading her blog because she is not afraid to put herself and religious beliefs out there and I truly admire that!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!!

Happy Birthday Dad!!

You are such an amazing father. We are very lucky to have such a wonderful dad and we love you SO much!!


(Though I would never call or consider you a senior (you are just mature) I did read that now that you are at the age you are, you get even more senior discounts!!!! I think you should take advantage. Feel free to visit AARP for deals or here at Frugal Living for a huge list of discounts!! Look at these, I think you would love the Banana Republic one!! :)

Arby's - A 10% discount at participating locations.

Banana Republic - 10% discount everyday.

Best Western
At least 10% off regular room rates. Late checkouts and other offers also available.

Choice Hotels
Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban, Econo Lodge, Rhodeway Inn Everyday. 10% discount with Mature Travelers rate.

IHOP - A 10% discount at participating locations.

Jiffy Lube - Many locations offer a 10% discount.

McDonald's - Everyday. Discounted senior coffee.

Wendy's - A 10% discount at participating locations.

WE LOVE YOU DAD!!!!!!

Getting To Know You, Getting To Know All About You

You know them. We love them. And I can’t live without them. It is a getting to know you quiz!

YAAAAAAAAAAAY (In the voice of Kermit on the Muppet Show)

Please feel free to share your own answers to the questions. And yes, I know there are a lot, but I really want to know about you :)

1. What is your name and do you have any nicknames? Jennifer. I prefer Jenn and close family will call me Jennie. I will also respond to bitch or sexy.

2. What color are your socks right now? Gray with red and blue spots

3. What are you listening to right now? Yahooooooo Radio.

4. What was the last thing that you ate? Fresh cherries…..I am addicted to them

5. Can you drive a stick shift? Nope, but I have always wanted to learn

6. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Terry, yesterday

7. Last place you went on vacation? Um, New Orleans in 2004 :( Someone needs a vacation.

8. What Hobbies do you have? I love crafts. I enjoy crocheting, needlepoint, scrapbooking, and anything else that is craft related.

9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? There are not too many I really enjoy. I do think snowboarding is fun to watch. (YAY winter Olympics soon!)

10. What is your favorite drink? Milk

11. Have you ever dyed your hair? Oh please...yes, many a times

12. Favorite food? CHEESE PLEASE

13. What is the last movie you watched? Whip It (LOVED it!)

14. Favorite day of the year? Birthday

15. How do you vent anger? I actually really enjoy screaming loudly, throwing something, or hitting a pillow. I might have some anger issues. However, if I get really angry sometimes I will just completely shut up and not want to be around anyone.

16. What was your favorite toy as a child? My kitty stuffed animal has always been my favorite “toy”. I also loved micro machines, my little ponies, legos, my lite bright, and crayons.

17. What is your favorite season? 100% Fall

18. Cherries or Blueberries? Fresh Cherries…see #4

19. What is your occupation right now? Secretary

20. What do you want to be when you grow up? I think I am going to get my Masters in Recreational Therapy.

21. What state (or country for our international bloggers) do you live and what State or Country would you like to live some day? I live in Ohio. I actually do not mind Ohio because I enjoy seasons. I have always thought living in one of the New England States would be nice.

22. Living arrangements? Own a house with my husband. My sister also lives with us and is a lovely houseguest, when she unloads the dishwasher and does whatever I say.

23. Do you have any pets? Yes, two cats. Sebastian & Belle.

24. What is on the floor of your closet? The question is what is NOT on the floor of my closet. I just throw stuff in there, so really I have no idea.

25. What are three of your favorite items at the moment? I got a Y-peeler for Christmas and I seriously do not know how I peeled vegetables without it. Love it. Scarves, never leave home without one. Yahoo Radio….because it allows me to tune out all the annoying things I would hear during a work day.

26. What did you do last night? Cooked risotto with asparagus & spinach, and watched White Collar and the State of the Union.

27. Any news you want to share? I lost 28 pounds and am trying to lose more. Check out my blog HERE! (plug)

28. What do you like on your hamburgers? Cheese…see #12, avocado, tomato, mustard.

29. Favorite dog breed? Golden Retrievers

30. Favorite day of the week? Saturday

31. How many states have you lived in? 1 ¼ (lived in FL for only a few months for an internship)

32. Diamonds or pearls? Pearls if I had to choose one of those, but I really prefer gemstones.

33. What is your favorite flower? Lilies

34. Favorite meal you have ever had at a restaurant and which restaurant was it? Martini’s Italian Restaurant in Columbus. I think they have since changed their menu, but it was this pasta with a vodka sauce and chicken, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and this cheese I have never had on top. I seriously salivate when I think of it.

35. What music are you currently listening to? 30 Seconds to Mars new album, Wolfmothers new album, Kings of Leon, The Killers & Muse seem to be in constant rotation at the moment.

36. What is one fun thing you are looking forward to in the coming year? My sister in law (who I do not get to hang out with much), her sister, her mom, my sister and our mother in law are going to start getting together once a month in the evening to do crafts, eat and drink! This should be fun.

My Weight Loss Blog - PLEASE CHECK IT OUT!

I have a new(er) blog. It is a rather personal blog about something that I have been struggling with my whole life....my weight. I have been reluctant to make it public, but I feel that it is a good time as getting healthy is my new focus and of course any extra encouragement would be fantastic!

Please check it out HERE. I have noticed many bloggers who have been working to get healthier and I hope that if you are looking to lose weight and/or get healthier that you will share your stories and progress on the blog as well! I hope to share my success as well, 28 pounds down already!!!

I plan on having some fun tips, articles, questions that will all be focused around being healthy. So check it out! And with any new blog, it is a work in progress :)

Thank You For The Obvious

This was on the pump at the gas station.

"Please Prepay in Advance"

I am SO glad this was there as I was confused as to when exactly I should Prepay for my gas. Phew, this sign saved me from look'n a fool.

Confession

I think, no I know, I have a crush on Adam Lambert.


This is him waving at me. Hi Adam, can I be your beard?!



Yes, I am aware I may not be the type of person he fancies but that does not matter. I am also aware that he wears an excessive amount of guyliner, that he is a bit on the glam side of poprock, and that his pants can be tighter than a pair of leggings but there is something I find extremely attractive about him. I love his voice, I like the clothes he wears, I like the glam/rocker edge, he is tall, I like that he is well-spoken in interviews, and YES I think he is really cute. I love him so much I even forced myself to watch Oprah so I could see his interview…that is serious.

I have yet to get his CD, but I have heard many of the songs and they are good…more so he is good. However, I think when he can make a CD he wants it will not be as “pop” and will be more rock and show his amazing vocal skills and that is what I want to hear. However, I did see the video for his single from the soundtrack 2012….awesome. See it HERE.

Here is his latest single.


Watch CBS News Videos Online

On a side note, I was thinking (as a lover of rock music) it is interesting how many women over the years have found those glam/rock artists very attractive and how both gay and straight men have tried that feminine look “for the music”. They have been wearing makeup, spandex and tight sparkly clothes, big hair, being overtly sexual and going to the extreme for years….and it is ok, right, because they are rock stars! People or bands like David Bowie, The Cure, Motley Crue, Poison, Twisted Sister, Kiss, Prince, Van Halen, Stryper (to name a few) have all donned some sort of the glam side and both men and women have adorn them. Of course, that is not to say that I need any justification for having a crush on him, I just be say’n it is interesting how so many people have found that sort of look attractive. I wonder what Freud would have to say about it.

And since I am in the sharing mood, you want to know another crush confession; I had a crush on Tim Curry when he was in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Yes, I know I may have issues.



I just wanted to be open and honest with my fellow bloggers as I feel that the internet is a safe place to share this information. ;) I also wanted to tell you so incase you come over and see teen beat sized posters of Adam throughout the house you will understand why.

I know I am not the only one with an odd crush. What are yours?!


And for the record, in case you have not met me and my husband and you wonder if I am with someone with that rocker edge, NO my husband is not anywhere close to that. He is a long haired, jeans & t-shirt wearing guy who refuses to even wear chapstick. I guess some weird fantasies should just remain that and not a reality….for now at least.

Talk To Me - Tax “This" Edition

So it is that time of year again….tax time. (insert groans of annoyance here)

I hate getting our taxes done and it seems for the past few years we have not got money back and at times have even owed which is just annoying. Of course we might get some money back if it wasn’t for the fact that last year it cost us $245 to get our taxes done from H&R Block. WHAT?!

We are trying to figure out how to get our taxes done this year. On the one hand I find it completely ridiculous to spend that much money to get our taxes done, especially when we are not getting anything or much back and also because our taxes are not that complicated. However, on the flip side, it is nice to know that they are taking care of everything and getting them done correctly and we do not have to worry about making mistakes.

So here is the question - where do you get your taxes done?

Do you go to a place like H&R Block and spend a little extra for the comfort and convenience of getting your taxes done? Do you do it yourself through a program like Turbo Tax with optimism that it is correct? Do you do it the old fashion way and go to an actual account…if so recommendations?

Hi, My Name Is Jenn and I Love TV

It is true, I love TV. I am not talking like I can not live without TV or I must watch it for 10 hours a day and do nothing else (though if I did choose to watch TV for 10 hours one day and do nothing else I would not feel ashamed); it is more like I find it relaxing and I like to be entertained for a few hours each night. Sure I could find other things to do during the week like working out, reading, cleaning, working on projects around the house but keeping up with the Kardashian’s, seeing another one of Michael’s stunts in the Office, watching House solve another medical mystery while trying to be devoid of any emotional connection with people, relating to the Theories of Leonard & Sheldon, or patiently waiting to see just HOW he met their mother seems far more interesting than anything I could do around the house.

So I say bring on the shows! Seriously, what is going on with new shows this week….it is f’n fantastic! I forgot new shows started up again after the first of the year and was pleasantly surprised Sunday night when I looked at the upcoming recordings and every day had new shows set to record! However, is anyone else’s DVR (’s) full because of all the new shows on this week, or is the H. household the only family addicted to TV? Seriously, if you need me I will be watching TV because I am at 85% on the DVR (’s)…dang HD.

So, what am I watching? Well since we are recording over 40 series between our two DVR’s (yeah, I know) I will just list my 5 favorite TV programs that are currently on.

1. Chuck – New season started this week. Three shows in 2 days, suh-weeeet! I love this show…. Oh, and I totally have a crush on Adam Baldwin. (Firefly/Serenity, anyone?!) Sigh
2. Supernatural – Second half of the season starts January 21
3. Bones – New episode tonight!
4. Psych – New season starts January 27
5. Fringe – New episode tonight!

Honorable mentions (did you really think I could just list 5 shows.)

Favorite reality show: Tough Love. This show is awesome. Steve is awesome!

Favorite new show: Modern Family. I just started watching this a few weeks ago and I love it!

Favorite program that is currently on air: Dr. Who. It is on BBC. It is the perfect amount of sci-fi, humor, cheesyness, drama, and suspense on TV. Just wish David Tennant wasn’t leaving.


What are your favorite shows right now?

Talk to Me – Don’t Be A Slouch Edition

So I don’t typically make resolutions but I think I have finally found a resolution worth making. Fixing my posture. Seriously, my posture SUCKS! I knew my posture wasn’t the best, but a few days ago I was driving in the car and Terry noticed my neck and said I had bad posture and my neck wasn’t straight! Um, what….I don’t want a curved neck!

I don’t know where my bad posture comes from, maybe because I am tall and I have felt the need to always slouch or bend over or maybe it is just because I am lazy or maybe I just have weak muscles. Whatever it is I need to fix it. So I started googling ways to fix bad posture. Of course there are tons of specialized books, pillows, and braces that are designed to help with your posture….all of which cost money and I am sure are not the most effective way to get the best posture. However, most websites did suggest some form of the following tips:

Becoming Aware (This is so true. The past couple days I have been trying to pay attention to my posture and when I slump at my desk. Let me tell you - I slouch over a lot! I have been constantly catching myself.)
Tone Muscles / Exercise (I need to do this. I have noticed that it actually hurts my back if I try to keep good posture for extended periods of time. Not good.)
Position your Head (Need to figure this out, Terry says my neck is starting to curve and therefore I can not keep my head straight. Sad.)
Position your Shoulders (Iactually like the feeling when my shoulders are back….it is like a nice stretch.)
Notice your Knees (This is hard. When I sit at a desk my legs are all over the place, I just can not sit still and sit with my legs and knees straight.)
Relax your Arms (I have monkey arms, so I am afraid if I relax them too much they will drag on the ground.)
Remain Active (Next.)
Relax (I do need to do this, Frankie said so.)

I know I am not alone in this, especially all of us that sit at a desk all day long! I have been thinking that yoga might be a good place to start, but not sure what positions are the best for helping my posture.

So I ask the question – Any tips, exercises, suggestions for getting better posture?! Anyone else have bad posture?

Project Runway – Please Don’t Disappoint Me Again

So I saw that Project Runway is set to return with a new season starting on January 14. Now my Owens friends got me into this show and I have been hooked ever since. I was truly sad when it moved to Lifetime and was off the air for so long. When the new season started I was excited for its return but I am going to be honest I was not that impressed with last season.

I didn’t think the designers were all that great. A few designed some really great items, but overall there was not one single designer that I thought stood out and did a truly amazing job. The entire season just seemed a bit dull. I also was annoyed because it seemed as though I typically disagreed with everything the judges were saying. I would think something was ridiculous and they would love it or I would love something and they hated it. My sister and I watched the season in the hopes it would get better but I think it just got worse.

I am still going to watch the new season this Thursday and I am excited about it, I just hope this season is better than last season!

Will you be watching the new season of Project Runway?

Meet the designers HERE.

Goodbye. Hello!!!

(Ok, I know we are a number of days into the New Year...but I have been on a delay)

So the past couple years I have done a year in review type post to go over the highlights of the year. The past three years have been very crazy with many wonderful times like getting married and friends getting married, buying a house, anniversaries, many friends having kids, getting a job and so many other things, both good and not so good, that have made the years truly memorable.

I have spent the last few weeks trying to make a list for 2009 and though the year had some really great memories, for me, it was a fairly mellow year - which was actually nice. I think it was good my 2009 was more low key, for the first time in about 4+ years, because I am pretty certain the next few years and as we head into another decade, are going to be pretty great and I am really looking forward to the two thousand TENS. (However I do want to acknowledge the excitement that took place for many of my friends in 2009 as many of my friends had a truly memorable year with many pregnancies and beautiful babies born YAY as well as I had a few family members and friends get married!!)

Now, being a 1980’s baby each decade in the year corresponds with me moving into the next decade in my life…which I love! So, to kick off 2010, I am entering my third decade of life and turning 30 in April – YAY! Yes, I said YAY. I am very much looking forward to getting out of my 20’s and getting into my 30’s. My 20’s were fantastic and were full of so many great life experiences (both good and bad) and my 20’s contained an entirely different set of goals and/or expectations for what I wanted in my life. Some I met like graduating college, getting a job in my field, getting married, losing a lot of weight, becoming more comfortable with who I was and who I wanted to be, opening up more and being more sociable (can you believe that I lived in a shell, had few friends, and wasn’t very funny?! As if), making new and lasting friendships, becoming not just independent in my life but with my ideals, developing and expanding on my own beliefs and values, and overall just becoming a stronger and more well-rounded individual. Some things didn’t go like I had wanted like not getting my masters degree, losing and not keeping a job within my field, not having kids, not traveling – specifically to England & Ireland, gaining back the weight I had lost, not always keeping a positive body image, and losing certain friendships. And of course there were all those wonderful other things (both big and small) that happened that I just never expected like getting to live with my sister, seeing my husband go back to school to be a Mortician, visiting and falling in love with my favorite city, New Orleans, and experiencing their culture and food, learning to cook and actually getting to the point where I just love it and am pretty good at (in my early 20’s I called my mom to see how to boil an egg), meeting very special people in my life that I have the privilege to call friends, BLOGGING and developing relationships with people through the blogs, and of course so much more!

Now as 2010 approaches I am excited for the new year not just because of the 2010 year alone but because I feel with the start of this new year as if one chapter in my life is closing and a new one is opening. I feel that in my 20’s I really grew as an individual and now my 30’s will be for a whole new set of life experiences and trying to be the best person, wife, daughter, sister, friend, (someday mother) I can be and for experiencing as much of life as I can. I am looking forward to so many things over the next ten years like turning 30, having kids, getting out of debt (blech) and becoming more financially sound, having closer relationships with my brothers, seeing the path that my sister takes in her life, watching my husband graduate and start his new career, enjoying every moment with my parents, traveling, losing weight and finally being happy with just being healthy, taking an active part in charity events for MS, finishing our current house and finding a home for us and our children to grow up in, getting my masters in Recreational Therapy and starting a new career, forming even closer relationships with my friends and having the opportunities to see our kids grow up together, overall just staying/being happy, and I am looking forward to all the little surprises and moments along the way. Sounds exciting, right?!?!

So, not really a “year in review” but more so just a reflection on where I have come and looking forward to all that could come as we start this new decade. I know some people don’t like to think so far in the future or think like I do, but for me I find comfort and joy in thinking of all that could come even if it is 6 months, a year, five years or 10 years down the road. I have learned more to go with the flow and I try not to plan out the next ten years, but I do have a new set of goals for my 30's. I know life throws curveballs, that is just one of the great life lessons I learned during my 20’s but I also learned that you can make the best out of any situation and wonderful surprises you never expected can happen due to those “curveballs” in life! It truly is exciting to think about what is to come during the next chapter in my life.

So are you happy or sad to see 2000 - 2009 come and go? What were some of the highlights for you last year? What are you looking forward to in 2010 and the next decade?



P.S. Sorry for the lack of blogging and commenting on blogs. Just been crazy busy but I promise I will be catching up and already have a number of posts written for your reading pleasure!!

Comments Like This Make Me Realize We Are Indeed 8 Years Apart.

Yesterday in the car, a commercial for the Richard Marx concert in Toledo came on. Of course I made a comment about him to which my 21 year old sister said the following:

“Who is Richard Marx?”

GASP! I know! Did your heart just break a little like mine did.

I proceeded to ask her if she was serious and how she could not know who Richard Marx was. I also sang a bit of one of his songs, but she still didn’t recognize it…..and she should have because it was spot on.

So yes, my sister does not know who Richard Marx is and I feel sorry for her. The cheesy lyrics, alluring voice, seductive looks and amazing hair of Mr. Marx has melted the hearts of many a ladies over the years. And from what I can tell he still looks and sounds amazing. I will be getting out my greatest hits CD this weekend and forcing her to listen to it and swoon with me.

I mean how could you not know “Now and Forever”….oh my gosh, when I heard this song it may have been the first time I actually got giddy and started daydreaming about a singer and then subconsciously started setting unrealistic expectation on relationships and what men should say (or sing) to women. “Terry will you love me until the day the ocean doesn’t touch the sand. And will you now and forever be my man.”

Or how about Right Here Waiting. “Wherever you go, whatever you do, I will be right here waiting for you.” I know you will be Richard.

Or Hold on to the Night. “I wish I could give you something more, I wish I could be yours.” (melted.)

And so many, many more. Ahhhhhh, I feel all flustery like a teenage girl :)

I may love my rock and metal music, but there will always be a place in my heart now and forever for Richard Marx and his love ballads.


*I will not apologize for the extreme cheese factor of this post.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Wishing everyone a very safe and very Merry Christmas!!!!!

A Few of My Favorite Things…

I love pretty much ALL things having to do with this time of year. The months from September thru December are my absolute favorites and contain some of my most favorite things or activities to do. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, I feel like a little kid, full of happiness and excitement. Every year I have a few traditional items that contribute to those feelings and there are always a couple new items that make me feel happy. Here are a few of those things that have made me feel happy this year!



- Fabreze Flameless Luminary Shades. This is new to our home this year and I have to say I just love it. The smell is strong at first but becomes mild after a couple days. What I enjoy more than the smell is the soft flickering glow that it has. It has the flicker of a candle and is very calming and very cute! Plus after 4 hours it turns off by itself so you do not need to worry about wasting the battery. They have different shades for all year round and right now I am sporting one of the Christmas shades. A starter kit is about $14 with the refills only about $6. I love it. (Eddie and the fabreze shade, he loves it.)



- A WoodWick Candle. I got this from the Cracker Barrel and it is a candle that features a natural wick made from organic wood that creates the soothing sound of a crackling fire. It is wonderful, especially for people who do not have fireplaces but enjoy the quiet sounds of a fire. If you have the TV on you will most likely not hear the candle, but if you are curdled up on the couch under a blanket reading or crocheting, this candle is amazing! They come in different scents and a large candle is about $23 and a smaller one is $17, however they burn every bit of wax in the candle and I think worth the price, especially during the holidays.



- A Spinning Christmas Tree. Yep, look out Griswolds because our tree spins!! Unfortunately we had to get our first fake tree this year. As persons who LOVE real trees, this was tough so we decided if we have to get a fake tree then let’s do it in style. This is our tree. Now imagine it spinning. Yeah, it is awesome, even with the slight lean and though this will not permanently replace our live tree it has brought plenty of Christmas laughter and frustration to our home this year...and that is what the season is all about.



- Fun ornaments. Most people know when I am planning something a theme is key, however, with our Christmas tree the “theme” is simply chaos! I adore a tree packed full of different and fun decorations. Some have meaning, some are of our favorite things, and some are just cool. Every year we get new ornaments, here are some of our newer favorites. And yes, this includes my favorite decoration – the Christmas Pickle!


T. loves his Godzilla. (Yes, this one makes noise)

We have a series of M&M's dressed in Star Wars outfits. FUN

Rock'em Sock'em Robots - of course!

Hand carved wood ornament from Warthers Museum back home.

The pickle.....easier to see in a white tree


- Scarves. I. LOVE. SCARVES. I feel that a person can never have too many, though my husband may disagree. I have gone to making my own scarves so that I can have even more and with my favorite colors and patterns. Wearing scarves may be one of my top 5 favorite things about colder months! Here are just a few of the dozens of scarves I own. Wearing a scarf IS winter time to me.



- A record player. Athena’s Bees wrote a blog about how she still listens to music on a record player and I have to agree that there is just something about listening to Christmas music on vinyl that compares to nothing else out there. The crackling sound you hear from a record while sipping hot chocolate and spending time with family on Christmas morning (or anytime really) is pretty darn close to perfection if you ask me.


- Listening to your favorite Christmas albums. This varies a bit every year. I seem to hear a certain artist and then cannot get enough of their music for the remainder of the year. However two albums that never change are Bing Crosby’s White Christmas and A Charlie Brown Christmas. It does not feel right if I have not heard songs from their records at least once a day. Three others I am loving this year in particular are Noel by Josh Groban, Let it Snow by Michael Buble, and of course no Christmas is complete without We Wish You a Metal Xmas...and a Headbanging New Year…by various metal artists of course.

- Watching Christmas movies. Of course there are the classics like it’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, a variety of version of the Christmas Carol or 48 hours of the Christmas Story on TBS which are all nearly unavoidable but fun to watch once a year. But in our house it is ALL about the funny movies and the cartoons at Christmas time. Charlie Brown, Rudolph, and Frosty are a MUST. And who could have Christmas without the Muppets Christmas Carol…I for one could not! (I also watch Love Actually at Christmas time every year.)

- Cinnamon hot chocolate. Heat up some milk, hot chocolate mix and a cinnamon stick on the stove on low heat for about 10 minutes. Pour in an oversized mug with a few marshmallows or whip cream and some chocolate shavings. Seriously, the ONLY way to drink hot chocolate.

- Baking Cookies. There is something so fun and relaxing about baking cookies at Christmas time. I have only had the chance to make one batch of cookies (pic below: Peanut Butter Oatmeal cookies with marshmallow cream frosting inside! yum.), however I have some that I hope to make with my mom and sister over the next few days. On the potential list: Hazelnut chocolate cookies with chocolate drizzle, chocolate brownies with peanut butter cream and chocolate ganache, maple iced cookies, and biscotti. yum




Do you have any favorites during the holidays?