I'm on the freakin' radio man!

Hi there! I am going to be on a weekly internet radio show with my friends Raven and Leah. We're hoping that this takes off and that we will gain some sponsorship and maybe eventually move to an FM station.

This exciting new show airs on blogtalk radio and will broadcast from 5:00pm to 7:00pm est. every Tuesday night beginning December 23rd!
You can listen live at Connections Radio on the Blog Talk Radio network!The Call-in Number: is (347) 215-6454. This is a free call

Stimulating, titilating, interactive talk is the key that we hope will make our show different from the rest. Twice a month we will also feature a full hour of call in readings from Raven so make sure to call in at that time!Each show will cover indepth discussions regarding the paranormal, ghosts, psychic phenomena, alternative health and a myriad of other topics all centered around things that don't fall into normal categories.

We look for our listeners to interact with us, debate with us and give us their two cents!! Phone lines will be open during the show for you to talk to us and our guests. We will also be covering weird news. This will consist of the strange and unusual. Leah is scouring as we speak to bring you the most interesting, funny and thought provoking strange news she can find! Go Leah!! So we hope you tune in and join us as delve into the unkown and beyond!

Happy Festivus!

The story of that first Festivus is a simple one. Many December 23rd's ago, a great man named Frank Costanza went to buy a doll for his son. He reached for the last one, but so did another man. As Frank rained blows upon him, he thought there had to be another way. The doll was destroyed, but out of that, a new holiday was born. It was called Festivus. No, not feminist, Festivus. A Festivus for the rest of us. Festivus, as Frank explained it, is a celebration like no other, composed of do-it-yourself ceremonies based on the principle that "father knows best".
On December 23rd, families and friends get together and gather around the traditional Festivus pole. No, it isn't a tree. It's a pole, no decorations. Tinsel, you see, is very distracting. Oh, and it must have a very high strength-to-weight ratio. The celebration then moves to the dinner table for the Airing of Grievances. This is when you share with families and friends all the ways they have disappointed us over the last year. That often lasts far into the night. Finally, there is the Feats of Strength, where the head of the household tests his or her strength with another family member or friend. Festivus is not over until the head of the family is pinned. You are allowed to decline only if you have something to do instead.

Happy Yule/Solstice!

The Winter Solstice, sometimes referred to as Yule, celebrates the rebirth of the sun to the earth, and the solstice itself is the longest (hence, darkest) night of the year. Throughout the world, from Scotland to Iran to the Americas, ancient and modern peoples have called forth the sun on the longest night of the year.You may have noticed that the solstice falls near the Christian holiday of Christmas, and that the word Yule is usually associated with that same holiday. Upon closer inspection, you will find many remnants of the pagan holiday within the current Christian celebrations. For example, the Christmas tree that is erected in many homes is a nod to the original pagan celebration of creating a Yule tree. The sturdy, evergreen tree represents life surviving in the darkest time of the year. The Yule tree was decorated with natural ornaments such as berries, rosebuds, and cinnamon sticks. Candles adorned the tree, representing the light of the sun, soon to be reborn. In many traditions, a Yule log is burned throughout the solstice night to provide a light in the darkest night, symbolizing hope and a belief that the sun will return. Yule is a time of celebration and rebirth, as the light of the God once again is reborn and shines within our lives. The winter solstice is also the time when the Goddess, in her aspect as Crone, is reborn as the Maiden. Rites to celebrate the return of the sun and the respective rebirths of the God and Goddess are appropriate, as are rituals to guide your spiritual path and honor the lessons learned within the dark time.

Happy Channukah!

Long ago in the land of Judea there was a Syrian king, Antiochus. The king ordered the Jewish people to reject their G-d, their religion, their customs and their beliefs and to worship the Greek gods. There were some who did as they were told, but many refused. One who refused was Judah Maccabee.Judah and his four brothers formed an army and chose as their name the word "Maccabee", which means hammer. After three years of fighting, the Maccabees were finally successful in driving the Syrians out of Israel and reclaimed the Temple in Jerusalem. The Maccabees wanted to clean the building and to remove the hated Greek symbols and statues. On the 25th day of the month of Kislev, the job was finished and the temple was rededicated.
When Judah and his followers finished cleaning the temple, they wanted to light the eternal light, known as the N'er Tamid, which is present in every Jewish house of worship. Once lit, the oil lamp should never be extinguished.
Only a tiny jug of oil was found with only enough for a single day. The oil lamp was filled and lit. Then a miracle occurred as the tiny amount of oil stayed lit not for one day, but for eight days.
Jews celebrate Chanukah to mark the victory over the Syrians and the rededication of the Jerusalem Temple. The Festival of the Lights, Chanukah, lasts for eight days to commemorate the miracle of the oil. The word Chanukah means "rededication".
In America, families celebrate Chanukah at home. They give and receive gifts, decorate the house, entertain friends and family, eat special foods, and light the holiday menorah.

December Autumn Apple Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing

DRESSING
1/4 cup Hungry Jack® Microwave Ready Regular Syrup
1/4 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 cup Crisco® Pure Vegetable Oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

SALAD
1 (5 oz.) bag mixed baby greens
2 Gala or Red Delicious apples, cored and chopped
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted*

PREPARATION DIRECTIONS:
1. WHISK together syrup, mayonnaise, vinegar and sugar in medium bowl. Whisk oil in gradually until mixture thickens slightly. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. TOSS together greens, apples, cherries and half the walnuts in a large bowl. Toss with enough dressing to coat.
3. DIVIDE salad equally among plates. Sprinkle with remaining walnuts. Serve.

TIP
*To toast walnuts: place nuts in dry nonstick skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool before adding to salad.

Ice Storm 2008

We have now been without power in our aparment for 4 days. Our cats have made it through thus far, but it was in the low 30's this weekend in the apartment. Jake and I were living like nomads this weekend.

Thursday night Jake was out all night sanding streets and moving trees while I was snug in my bed. He worked all night.

I woke up Friday morning to discover we had no power. Not thinking it a big deal, I headed out to work. Leah called me as I was one exit away saying the power was out but our boss was at work. So, I figured I'd make an appearance. We were sent home, of course.

Jake and I decided to try to tough it out Friday night. Well, at 2:00 am I woke up vomiting and such. I picked up the phone book and called every hotel in the area, finally finding one with openings. I was not about to be throwing up sick in a 45 degree house.

We booked the room for two days, but saturday night I headed to Heather and Evan's so Jake could have the hotel bed to himself. At that point he hadn't slept since Wednesday night. I had a good time with them and Rhea, but living like a nomad ain't easy.

Last night we slept at Jake's parent's place. This is getting ridiculous. I want my bed and I want my cats to not be freezing. I hope we get power soon or I'm going to break something.

Gingerbread Contest

Back Row Left to Right: Cat, Pirate, Buff Ninja, Hippy, Vampire Punk, Ballerina, Sparkel Shoes
Front Row Left to Right: Scarf, Naughty Lady, Pants Man, Corn Dress, Ricardo!, Roller Girl, Sparkle Pants

We're having a contest, tell me who your favorite is!!

RIP Sven 2004-2008

I am sad to report that my beloved Sven the Swedish Fish (actually a beta) passed away peacefully in his loving home last night. RIP little buddy. You lived a long, full fishy life. We will always remember you and all you've been through.

New and Improved

So...... as of Friday, November 28 2008 I am Sandra Marie Picard Stevens!

It took a month or so, but I had to wait until I could make it to the SS office and do it in person! Now I just have to change everything to follow suite!

Roller Derby Queen!

Yay! I am going to be an announcer for the 2009 home series of Skate Free of Die roller derby! I'm wicked excited! I miss the thrill of being involved with kick ass roller girls! Weeeeeee! Come check me out! I'm thinking of going by Kitty Stevens and dressing all 50's rockabilly. What do you think?

Save the dates for NHRD's 2009 home bouts at JFK Coliseum in Manchester:
Saturday, April 25
Saturday June 13
Saturday August 1
Saturday, August 29

To check out more about the league, go to http://nhrollerderby.com/index.html.

Fascinating

I am truly fascinated with my new discovery: Steampunk

November Super-Stuffed Baked Potatoes

This recipe calls for 7 potatoes, but only 6 of them make it to the table. The remaining potato is used for its flesh; you should have 5 cups of scooped potato flesh in step 2.

Serves 6

Ingredients
7 large russet potatoes (about 12 ounces each), scrubbed
6 tablespoons unsalted butter , 3 tablespoons melted
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup half-and-half
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees.

Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Place a cooling rack on top of the cookie sheet for your cooking surface.

Prick potatoes all over with fork.

Place directly on oven rack for 30-40 minutes.
OR....
For less time, you can cook them in the microwave. Place them on a paper towel, and microwave on high until tender, 20 to 25 minutes, turning potatoes over after 10 minutes. Some potatoes may take longer than others to cook, so check them every so often, making sure they don’t overcook.

Once cooked, slice and remove top quarter of each potato. Let cool. Sscoop out flesh into a medium bowl, leaving 1/4-inch layer of potato on inside. Remember, one potato is going to be used for its filling and then discarded. Once you have all 7 potatoes scooped out, toss one of the empty shells.

Brush remaining shells inside and out with melted butter and sprinkle interiors with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Some butter will be left over to use later.

Transfer potatoes scooped side up to baking sheet fitted with wire rack and bake until skins begin to crisp, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix 3/4 of the Boursin and all of the half-and-half in bowl until blended.

Cook remaining melted butter with garlic in saucepan over medium-low heat until garlic is straw-colored, 3 to 5 minutes.

Remove from heat, then stir in Boursin mixture until combined. This will make the Boursin mixture warm up for better usage.

Use a ricer, or potato masher to break up the potato innards so they have a nice consistency for the filling.

Gently fold in warm Boursin mixture, 3 tablespoons chives, remaining salt, and pepper until well incorporated with the potato filling, set aside.

Remove potato shells from oven and fill with potato-cheese mixture.

Top with remaining crumbled Boursin and bake until tops of potatoes are golden brown, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining chives. Serve.

*Notes

Bigger, Better Stuffed Potatoes During testing for our Super-Stuffed Baked Potatoes, we found that most recipes called for the baked potatoes to be cut right in half before being filled. But these skimpy spuds were far from the super-stuffed garlic potato I was looking for. Instead, I found the best way was to cut off only the top quarter of the potato—leaving a much more substantial spud to stuff.

Boursin is a soft, spreadable cheese that comes in several varieties available in every supermarket. The Garlic and Fine Herbs flavor is a key ingredient in our Super-Stuffed Baked Potatoes, as it adds creamy texture, cheese flavor, and a big hit of aromatic garlic and herbs. This versatile cheese works well as a sandwich spread (try it with roast beef), as a stuffing for chicken breasts, spread on steaks, in mashed potatoes, on crackers, in dips, or as part of a cheese plate.

Recipe from America’s Test Kitchen- Cook’s Country TV
From the episode: Steakhouse Favorites

House

Well Jake and I have been preapproved for a mortgage! Woot! We're going to start looking for our first home! I am SO freaking excited, but wicked scared! It's a huge responsibility. But, OMG, the thought of owning our own home is making me drool! Then we can have babies! oops, did that slip out? LOL

It's all coming together now! *arches fingers like Mr. Burns* yessss.....excellent.....

Happy Samhain!

Samhain History
By Patti Wigington

What is Samhain?:
Samhain is known by most folks as Halloween, but for Wiccans and Pagans it's considered a Sabbat to honor the ancestors who came before us. It's a good time to contact the spirit world with a seance, because it's the time when the veil between this world and the next is at its thinnest.

Myths and Misconceptions:

Contrary to a popular Internet-based (and Chick Tract-encouraged) rumor, Samhain was not the name of some ancient Celtic god of death, or of anything else, for that matter. Religious scholars agree that the word Samhain (pronounced "sow-en") comes from the Gaelic “Samhuin,” but they’re divided on whether it means the end or beginning of summer. After all, when summer is ending here on earth, it’s just beginning in the Underworld. Samhain actually refers to the daylight portion of the holiday, on November 1st.

All Hallow Mass:

Around the eighth century or so, the Catholic Church decided to use November 1st as All Saints Day. This was actually a pretty smart move on their part – the local pagans were already celebrating that day anyway, so it made sense to use it as a church holiday. All Saints’ became the festival to honor any saint who didn’t already have a day of his or her own. The mass which was said on All Saints’ was called Allhallowmas – the mass of all those who are hallowed. The night before naturally became known as All Hallows Eve, and eventually morphed into what we call Halloween.

The Witch's New Year:

Sunset on Samhain is the beginning of the Celtic New Year. The old year has passed, the harvest has been gathered, cattle and sheep have been brought in from the fields, and the leaves have fallen from the trees. The earth slowly begins to die around us.
This is a good time for us to look at wrapping up the old and preparing for the new in our lives. Think about the things you did in the last twelve months. Have you left anything unresolved? If so, now is the time to wrap things up. Once you’ve gotten all that unfinished stuff cleared away, and out of your life, then you can begin looking towards the next year.

Honoring the Ancestors:

For some of us, Samhain is when we honor our ancestors who came before us. If you’ve ever done genealogy research, or if you’ve had a loved one die in the past year, this is the perfect night to celebrate their memory. If we’re fortunate, they will return to communicate with us from beyond the veil, and offer advice, protection and guidance for the upcoming year.
If you want to celebrate Samhain in the Celtic tradition, spread the festivities out over three consecutive days. You can hold a ritual and feast each night. Be flexible, though, so you can work around trick-or-treating schedules!

Samhain Rituals:

If you are intersted, look them up here: http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/holidaysandcelebrations/u/Celebrations.htm

Thanks and happy Samhain!

October Pumpkin Pancakes

Pumpkin Pancakes
from Charline French

2 1/3 Cups Bisquick Baking Mix
2 Tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
1/4 Teaspoon each cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger
1 1/4 Cups milk
2 Eggs, lightly beaten
1/3 Cup mashed pumpkin
1/4 Cup vegetable oil

Beat all ingredients until well blended.
Pour batter by scant 1/4 cups full onto hot, lightly greased griddle or skillet.
Cook until tops are bubbly and edges are dry.
Turn and cook until golden brown.
Bring some to Sandra so she can eat them

We're Married!

OK, so we had a wedding! Jake and I tied the knot, finally, last Saturday 10/11/08. It was a perfect day, a perfect wedding.

We woke up at the crack of dawn because I had to be at the salon for 6:45am. We met Jenna, Jasun and the boys at Jake's parents house. That way Jenna and I could carpool, and Jake could go with the gang. We were running very late, so I just picked up Jenna and left.

We got to the salon on time. My hair wasn't totally dry, so Joy stuck me under the old lady drier! I was a big ball of nerves that morning. I needed food and coffee, but it took a good hour before my body would allow it. Heather met us there. We all got our hair done, and I got my makeup done. Joy and Christina at Hair we Are were just wonderful. I have such love and trust for them so the morning of my wedding was so calm and so warm. It was great to be there with Heather, Jenna and the other gals at the salon. They truly made me a zen bride!

We then got to the Granite Rose really early. Jenna, Heather and I hung out in the parking lot for a bit (Val was already inside working on our cake). We popped a squat on the cement and just hung out in the beautiful sunshine! Then Jenna from the Granite Rose let us inside.

Once we were in, we went to check out the hall and cake. Both were just phenomenal! Valerie really outdid herself with the cake! It was just beautiful! 3 tiers of white frosting with some dot work, with layers of red roses in between. I cried!

Then all the ladies, and Evan and Rhea piled into the bridal suite to get ready. We had so much fun! At one point I was laying down on the couch, topless and in pantyhose, holding up my chest whilst Heather powdered! That's what friends are for! At this point, Valerie had finished the cake and was showering and getting gussied-up in the bathroom of the bridal suite.

Before we knew it, we were all dolled up and the photographer and my dad and Joey came in for some pictures. I was such a nervous wreck, but I had just won Red Sox play off tickets at work the night before, so I used baseball to calm my nerves and keep me from crying! I believe the mantra was "think baseball. there's no crying in baseball!" LOL

The nerves left as my dad and I started our walk down the aisle. I can't exactly describe the feeling of having everyone you know and love standing up to adore you, but it's freakin' awesome! I was so excited as I walked towards my fiance. Jake looked so handsome standing there.

The ceremony was short, but beautiful. Our JP, Andrea Ellis Reyes, performed with grace, professionalism and warmth. Jake and I kept looking at her instead of each other so that we didn't cry! That failed during the vows, however. We had to look at each other for those and I totally choked up and cried through them!

Joey presented the unity candle. He looked adorable in his renny outfit. He had the words on this old-looking scroll. He got a bit choked up during it, but did great! Jake and I were really touched by his words and emotion. Nona and Nana were so sweet to come up and light the tapers for us. It was great to have those generations present.

Shortly after that, we were pronounced husband and wife and Jake stepped on the glass. We had a brief kiss and walked down the aisle, married!

The reception was SO much fun! I didn't get to eat a whole lot as the chef made the vegan meal with tomato sauce. It was freaking delicious, but clumsy brides in white and tomato sauce are not a good mixture! I had salad, and a lot of bread.

Our first dance was Time in a Bottle. The daddy/daughter dance was He Didn't Have to Be. The mommy/son dance was Hey Jude (Jake's mother's name being Judi).

The DJ Jeff Dawe and his assistant (don't know his name) did an AWESOME job! Everyone commented on their skills and the fact that they were up there grooving the whole time. Not to mention that Mr. Dawe is pretty easy on the eyes! The lady guests enjoyed that!

The bouquet toss was a bit of a miss. That huge chandelier got in the way, but Denise dove for it and got it!

A lot of people told me that the day would fly by and to treasure every moment. I have to say, it didn't fly by for me! I was savouring the day, taking in all it had to offer. We had the best crowd. Everyone was kind, caring and pleasant. There were no issues at all. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. Seriously, it was amazing!

OMFG NEW KIDS!

So I went to see the New Kids on Sunday night! The concert was indescribably amazing! I couldn't have been happier and more sentimental if I tried! The wedding will surely be the most amazing day of my life, but that concert will be up there. I cried like a freaking baby so many times! I couldn't believe that 20 years later I was that close to my boys! They really put on an amazing show. They are true entertainers and they were SO excited to be in Boston! I think Donnie cried at one point when calling out "Boston Massachusetts!!"
Every time Jordan hit his falsetto I sobbed! LOL I am such a loser! And Donnie... don't get me started. He is HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT!!!!!
They did a great mix of oldies and new songs. They did at least one song from every album. Jordan and Joe did their solo hits. Danny did some windmills and other breakdancing!
I have never seen so many drunk 30 year old women in one place! WTF? Why get drunk and miss the evening? Whatever, I had a blast. I will never forget that feeling. I love them so much!

NKOTB 4-EVA!!!!!!

More Wedding Goodness!

So I had my shower on Saturday! It was a fantastic time! Many people showed up and many people put a lot of work into making it a great day. I am so thankful to have such wonderful people in my life!

Jake and I got lots of awesome gifts! Fun moments included opening the edible undies from Jenny (I knew Karma would get me in the end), and when Joelle cracked herself up for being a vegan and buying us an omelet pan! LOL Many laughs and good times were had.

The food was incredible and I totally appreciate the effort and thought into making everything vegetarian. It was so sweet! It is a rare occasion to go to an event like that and have the ability to eat anything in the room.

The cake was AMAZING! Valerie made the most delicious white cake with fresh cut strawberries in it. The decorations on the cake were so beautiful. She made sugar and frosting replicas of the family crests from our save the date cards. I was really touched.

Speaking of being touched, I totally cried so many times! My Nona had made this beautiful hand knit blanket.... I cried. Jenna gave me a gorgeous cake plate that her Nana had given her to give to whoever Jake married... I cried...

On another topic, I went and had the final fitting for my dress. It fit! Yay! So we have that out of the way now!

Da Faire

So we took our first trip of the year to King Richard's Faire! Weeeeee! We met Jessica and Dave there as they were going to look for outfits for the wedding. We had a good day walking around and looking at stuff that we couldn't buy! LOL

But really, we didn't find anything we wanted. I was on a mission to find both a garland and snood for the wedding. The garlands were cheap and cheesy, and there wasn't a snood for sale in sight! What, you ask? A snoodless faire? Yes folks, I'm afraid 'tis so. However, all was not lost for when I saw the snoods on some ladies, I decided that I didn't want one for the wedding anyway. If my hair pisses me off I'll figure some other way to pull it up.

Food wise, it was a very poor day. Jake and I both got bloomin' onions and they were horrible! They didn't taste fantasic (surely not worth the cost) and were impossible to eat! They didn't cut the onion in a way that allowed for us to actually pull the pieces off and consume them. That caused some eating issues which resulted in me spilling stuff all over myself. Due to the boning, my bodice is not washable. *sigh* But, thanks to Tide for their stain sticks! I got most of the grease out.

Jessica ended up with an beautiful outfit from that store that sells the fairy outfits (forgot the name). They had BEAUTIFUL chemises there, but they were a bit pricey so I didn't get one. C'est la vie! We also picked up Heather and Jenna's bridesmaid dresses from Lew at Threads of Time as they had needed some hemming. We also picked up some gifts for the wedding party, but I can't say what they are as I know people in the wedding party will read this! LOL

Overall, it was a good day! We even found our engagment bench and had Jessica take some shots of us there. So romantic!

Oh, speaking of wedding stuff, we got our marriage license on Friday! How exciting! :-)

It was a bit awkward though as I had put Constantin's name as my father, and the woman made me change it to Michael's. I don't think I've ever actually written Michael Picard for father's name as Constantin has been my legal guardian since I was a kid. It actually made me cry, which is silly really.

There really isn't anything we have left to get for the wedding. The unity candle set finally got here (in a beat up old flower box) and the favors should be here Friday. All we really have left is to get the last of the outfits together and to finalize the stuff with our vendors. I'm going to have to call the JP since she never contacted me in August to go over the ceremony as she had promised. I'm getting excited! What a party this will be! :-D

Birthday Reflections

Let's see.... there are 365 days until I turn 30. Jesus....30. I never thought I'd see that day! It's amazing to think that I've lived for this long.

Remember when 10 years seem like such a long time? Like when we graduated from high school and the thought of a 10 year reunion was so far-fetched? (not that I'd ever go, and didn't). But still. Now 10 years seems like nothing. Let's see, where was I in life 10 years ago, August 17, 1998?

I had just spent a year (well, almost) at UMD. It was a very hard time for me, but I managed to find a group of incredibly amazing friends, most of whom I have to this day. I remember I had a birthday party that year. I was living back home in Chelms-hell with my parents. It was a weird party because my 20cent friends were there, along with Valerie (who didn't know any of them at the time), Leah, and Taryn! We managed to have a really good time. Vorg was there too. I remember he ended up staying over that night. He slept in the guest bedroom, but tried to sneak into mine early in the morning. Alli, our dog, had other plans! She woke up when he did and barked to get the rest of us up! LOL Poor boy. What am I talking about... poor me too! LOL
I was working at the Westford Regency, I believe. I had real short hair still, and fake nails. I was still really depressed, but was starting to work towards getting better. I did register for MCC that coming fall. That was my saving grace. It really was. It gave me a sense of purpose, and the self esteem to actually succeed academically for the first time in my life.

There's me, getting all sentimental! This year, on my birthday, I feel like I'm in another transition. I'm in a job that I am very unsatisfied with. I wanted to start teaching this year, but no one has even called me for an interview. I feel stuck. I'm not making enough money to pay the bills, I'm not at all intellectually challenged, and I don't get any respect.

But, I am getting married in 55 days! Yikes! I'm going to be a Mrs! I have decided to keep my name, but add Jake's at the end. Meaning, Sandra Marie Picard Stevens. I feel good about that. Now I don't have to give up the Picard, which I feel is a little piece of my birth father I've kept with me. And that's not a knock towards my life father. I love him, but he's able to be an active part of my life where my birth father can't. I hope I've honored my life father with all I've done (though I don't think he sees it that way).

Anyway, it's late and I'm jabbering. I'll probably edit this tomorrow!

Cheers and thanks for all the birthday wishes everyone!

You heard them....

Karma?

Remember last year when we had those insane neighbors next door? The woman my age who had 5 kids, each with a different man? Her sons used to run around and hit things with huge sticks and spray painted out house? Her name is Jennifer Dorval...see her quality personality for yourself! I can only hope that those boys get separated into different foster homes and finally get the love and discipline that they needs..


Published: Saturday, August 9, 2008
8 arrested on drug charges
By ANDREW WOLFE Staff Writer awolfe@nashuatelegraph.com
NASHUA – Police arrested eight people around the city on drug dealing charges Thursday, detectives announced Friday."They are independent of one another, street-level traffickers," said Detective Sgt. Frank Sullivan.The charges against the defendants all are based on recent purchases by either undercover detectives or informants, at various different homes and other locations around the city, Sullivan said. Some transactions were more recent than others, but police waited to round up the suspects all at once Thursday so as not to tip anyone off that an investigation was afoot, Sullivan said.While some of the defendants are accused of selling cocaine or heroin, others are charged with selling illicit prescription drugs, including the painkiller Oxycontin and the sedative Clonazepam, an anti-anxiety drug.Drug overdoses have eclipsed car crashes as the leading killer of New Hampshire residents in recent years, and prescription drugs account for most drug deaths, the state Medical Examiner's office has reported.Two of the eight persons arrested, Mario Lopez, 31, of 4A Hobbs Ave., and Lawrence Nelson, 23, of 19 Buck St., were working together, Sullivan said. Lopez is charged with selling both cocaine and heroin, while Nelson faces a single count of selling cocaine.Lopez has been convicted of selling drugs before, police reported, so the charges against him are class A felonies, punishable by up to 7-1/2 to 15 years in prison. Selling a small amount of cocaine or heroin otherwise carries a maximum of 3-1/2 to seven years.Also arrested Thursday were:Gilberto Alvarez, 65, of 40 Ash St. No. 1, faces five counts of selling cocaine.Andrea Lozupone, 25, of 96 Conant Road, is charged with selling Oxycontin, second offense.Katie Dube, 23, of 16 Central St., is charged with two counts of selling cocaine, and one sale of crack cocaine.Grace Ledgister, 49, of 20 Hanover St., is charged with selling morphine and Clonazepam, second offense, and Dana Hastings, 21, of 9 Ferryalls Court, and Jennifer Dorval, 28, of 94 Chandler St., Apt. C, are each charged with selling Clonazepam.All eight defendants were arrested without unusual drama, held overnight and arraigned Friday in Nashua District Court, police reported.Police urge that anyone who has any information or suspicions about illegal drug dealing should contact them either through the Narcotics Tip Line at 594-3597, or the Department's main number, 594-3500 or Web site, http://www.nashuapd.com/.

Holy Crap

Wedding stress! AAAAH!

OK, so the wedding outfits were supposed to be done at the end of June. All of them. Then the seamstress tells me that there were delays in fabric shipments etc. and that the fitting will have to be August 24, as that is the only weekend she has inbetween Bristol and KRF.

Now I get an email from her stating that the parent's outfits will not be done in time for the fittings. Then, I got one stating that she MAY have the guys outfits done for the fittings. WTF?!?!?!?! I am freaking the fuck out! The wedding is in OCTOBER! That is only 2 months! If she is busy with the faires, when is she going to focus on my wedding stuff? I mean shit! AAAAAH!!

Then she has the fucking audacity to suggest that our parents drive 2.5 hours and pay to go to KRF for their fittings!!!!!!!!!!!! Ha! I do NOT fucking think so!

OMG... I need a beer.

On top of that, I ordered our unity candle stand almost a month ago and it's not here yet! And the place is not answering my emails. Ugh.

And the Grantie Rose can't seem to figure out how much it would be to have mulled cider! I asked them in OCTOBER to figure it out. Then again in June. Still, they can't wrap their minds around it! Just say $50 and call it a day!

Welcome Rhea Ann Jacob

So Heather had her beautiful baby girl yesterday morning (8/1/08) around 5:00! If I'm getting this correct, 7lbs 1oz, 20 inches. She looks so much like Evan, but also has some of mommy's features too!

Yea, she went into labor 45 minutes after I wrote that blog about trying to get the baby to come out! LOL

I went to visit the happy family after work today...wait, yesterday (It's 1am and I haven't been to bed yet....)

Anyway, all are doing well and happy. They have Rhea (so used to calling her Bean) on antibiotics as a precaution against possible infection. Other than that though, everyone is healthy and safe. Heather is doing very well for someone who just gave birth!

I am just so amazed at the whole thing. Just looking down at Rhea, the enormity of the situation hit me like a truck! This is their child- forever! They are now bound to this one person for the rest of their lives! Responsible for all of her needs and care. It's just an amazing and frightening perspective. I mean, my body was going: "I WANT ONE NOW!" and my brain was going "YIKES!"

It's also so strange that Thursday night I was feeling the baby kicking around inside Heather, and now here she is! In the flesh! I tell you, I am truly honored to be able to be around them in this awesome time in their lives. I am such a proud auntie, it's ridiculous! Just wait until I make some decent dough, that kid is going to be showered with stuff! Mostly love, but also stuff! LOL

Go little Leo goddess Rhea Ann... go heartily and strong into this world and be the best person you can be. You are blessed and loved.... OK... now I'm crying. I think it's time for bed!

Baby Bean

So I hung out with Heather and Evan tonight. Poor Heather! She started the motions on Tuesday, but was sent home since she hasn't gone more than 3 centemeters. :-( I know it will come in time, but she is ready for baby to come out!

We went to the chiropractor and he adjusted her and put baby in a better spot; more inline with the pelvic area. Evan and I did some energy work with her, so we're hoping all of that will help inspire baby bean to come out and play!

I am dying to meet this kid! I know we all are, Heather and Evan most of all!

COME OUT BABY BEAN! I know it's nice and warm and cozy in there, but the world is waiting for you! :-)

Engagment Party

So we had our engagement party today. It went really well. I was nervous about it being somewhat awkward with a lot of people I didn't know being there. And there were a couple, but overall it was good to see my parent's friends from the temple that I haven't seen in a long time.

Valerie and Jeff were there. It was cool to see them together as a couple, I don't think I've seen that yet! She brought a BEAUTIFUL cake! It was two tiers; one spice cake, one chocolate. And it was gorgeous! It was white frosting and she had done a Celtic knot design with hearts intertwined in it with a claddagh on the front. I totally started to cry when I saw it! I'm still misty eyed! It totally was the hit of the party! :-) What can I say, I have some talented ass friends!

We got lots of really nice gifts. I GOT MY KITCHEN AID MIXER! Can I just tell you how freaking excited I am about that? It's beautiful! It's the cobalt blue color I wanted. Jake's parents got it for us. That is something I have always wanted. Even years ago I used to dream of getting married and registering for the mixer! I am so going to use it! When we get a house it's taking its proper place on the counter!

I was a good day too. The rain held off until we left. It was pissing down on the way home. The drops were huge! They felt like they were whipping the car!

But anyway, it was a good day and it's a good feeling to know that people care about you, even if you haven't seen them in years!

Wedding Stuff

I am so upset right now. It's three months before the wedding and now the Granite Rose is telling me that we can't do things that were "no problem" when we originally sat down.

The most upsetting is that now Valerie can't make our cake. We chose a package with the cake included, but were told that if we weren't doing the cake that we could subtitute it with something esle. We're paying the money regardless. Now we're being told that if we bring in an outside cake we still have to pay the money, but get nothing in return! Apparently, it's in the contract. So now I had to crush Valerie and tell her that she can't make my wedding cake. I know it really upset her. I'm upset too! I mean, a cake from her would be so beautiful and so meaningful. Who else would put so much heart into making something like that for us? I know there will be other occasions and other cakes, but this really sucks. :-(

There were other little things as well, but I'm not going to go into details because it's arduous and pointless. Needless to say, I'm crushed and entirely disenheartened by the venue. I was so happy with them so far because they really made us feel like they cared about making our day special. They were the only place that didn't treat us like this was just another wedding; just another day in the biz. Now that the wedding is just three months away, I'm getting a totally different vibe. I know we're not their only customers. I know we're just another wedding, but it still sucks that all of a sudden we're being treated this way.

I priced mead from the NH liquor store because I wanted to have a bottle on each table. It would cost me $12/bottle if I bought it straight. If we get it through the Granite Rose it will cost $39/bottle! They wouldn't even be serving it! It was just going to be on the tables!

I'm anxious to see how much the hot spiced cider will cost.

Well, I guess I shouldn't complain. I mean, I WAS looking for all these special customizations. I guess I should just go with what comes with the package and enjoy the meaning of the day. That's it folks, I have just decided not to get bogged down with details! The important thing is that Jake and I get married in front of our family and friends. The rest is moot. Zen bride take over!

Hehehe

If you're not a Yankee's fan...A first grade teacher explains to her class that she is a Yankees fan. She asks her students to raise their hands if they, too, are Yankees fans. Everyone in the class raises their hand expect one little girl. The teacher looks at the girl with surprise and says, "Janie, why didn't you raise your hand?" "Because I'm not a Yankees fan," she replied. The teacher, still shocked, asked, "Well, if you are not a Yankees fan, then who are you a fan of?" "I am a Red Sox fan, and proud of it," Janie replied. The teacher could not believe her ears. "Janie, why pray tell are you a Red Sox fan?"
"Because my mom is a Red Sox fan, and my dad is Red Sox fan, so I'm a Red Sox fan too!"
"Well," said the teacher in a obviously annoyed tone, "That is no reason for you to be a Red Sox fan. You don't have to be just like your parents all of the time. What if your mom were a moron and your dad were a moron, what would you be then?""Then," Janie smiled, "I'd be a Yankees fan."

?

Does anyone read this?

I will not let it shadow my life...

So today is the 27th anniversary of my father's death. 27 years, I can't believe it. It's amazing how something that happened so long ago can still have a stronghold on your life.

However, I have decided not to let it bother me this year. This year I am going to get through the whole day without crying. In fact, it didn't even dawn on me what day it was until I checked my email and saw the anniversary reminder from my mom (yea, way morbid mom). I just sat there looking at it, waiting for the tears to well. And they didn't!

I think that this year it's different because now I have so many positive things to focus on. For instance, Colleen's wedding is tomorrow. That's a huge positive spin on a bad day! And, Judi (Jake's mom) has be birthday today.

Having Jake in my life has also helped me deal with things I never thought I'd be able to deal with. I don't need to focus on so many fears because I know I have someone here to stand by me at all times. I can break free from the grips of harmful relationships because I have a steady support system at home. I can get through life without mourning everyone all of the time because I have someone to focus that energy on.

I am a really, really lucky person to have found him. I truly never thought I would meet the person who would complete my life. I used to cry....often, actually. I'd cry about being lonely, being poor, losing so many people to death... and now, well, I hardly cry at all!

Cat sitting from Hell!

Have you ever had a day where just every little thing goes wrong, to the point where you just starting laughing so as to not fall into an angry rage? Yea, that was yesterday!

Jake and I went to his parent's house to take care of their cat. Let me start with a time stamp! We left our home around 5:00 yesterday to head over. They live about 5-10 minutes away. We stopped at the Blockbuster and Market Basket across the street from them to get two movies, some candy and drinks.

We get to the house and notice that Sam (the cat) has accidentally shut himself in their bedroom. He does that sometimes if he's playing with something and it goes behind a door. Jake says "shit, I wonder how long he's been in there without a litter box." And yea, our worst thoughts came true, Sam had peed on the bed. It wasn't his fault, truly. He had, however, given the courtesy of tossing the pillows off the bed before peeing in the spot where they normally would go. Lucky that, otherwise we would have some wet pillows to deal with as well.

So, we stripped the bed and started to wash it. We tossed the sheets and the light blanket in the washing machine and turned it on. It was making noise, but no water was filling it up. I quickly figured Jake's dad must have flipped the water switch, which he had. That was an easy fix.

So, we still had the issue of the pee all over the mattress. Luckily, we had some Miracle whatever at home. It's a solution that you pour on pee and it eats it up with enzymes etc. It works wonders! However, we weren't 100% sure how much we had left. So, at 5:55 on July 4, I called PetSmart down the street in hopes that they were open. They sure were! But only until 6:00! Ugh! So, I called Petco in south Nashua and they were open to 8. So, we had to go all the way down to South Nashua to buy the stuff.

We get back and treat the bed, put in the first movie, and order dinner. All goes well for a while, until Jake decides to clean the cat box. He brings it into the living room and takes the lid off. Sam saunters over, climbs in and proceeds to piss and shit in the un-covered cat box, right in front of us! Good times! Of course, now we have a small amount of litter on the floor since cats need to bury and kick up everything.

No sense in trying to clean a litter box with fresh pee in it. You make more of a mess! So, I put the lid on the box and decide to move it into the room it belongs in. I pick up the litter box and start walking. Apparently, the weight of the box was too much for the handle. You should have seen the look on our faces as the lid broke off and half the box spilled onto the oriental rug in the living room! Yea! AWESOME! So now we have a HUGE mess AND a broken little box! Excellent!

I went to get the vacuum as Jake got the broom. It took a while, but we swept and vacuumed up all the litter. Thank GOD the fresh pee didn't land on the rug! At this point, it's around 8, 8:30.

The bedding is still washing, so we put in the next movie. About 1.5 hours into the movie, at the climax, it decides to freeze and pixelate. Yea, awesome. Chuck up another perfect occurrence that night! Also, the comforter took 4 spins in the drier so we didn't end up leaving until after 11:30. Yea, it was a shitty night!

On the way home, I saw big fireworks in the sky. I said "gee that's strange. I though that Holman Stadium's fireworks would have been done by now. I wonder where they're coming from..." About 1 minute later, we drove by a bunch of assholes lighting off fireworks on the street. Big, huge fireworks. One went off as we drove by and the sparks hit the fucking truck! If that firework had just tipped over, it would have taken out the truck! I was SO FUCKING PISSED! I mean what the fuck. Who sets off huge fireworks on a busy public road in Nashua where the houses are all on top of each other? Sometimes I just want to kill people with their stupidity.

We got home. So, exhausted, we went to bed. We laid there for about 10 minutes when we heard that lovely sound of our cat heaving. Melissa decided that would be an excellent time to puke all over the little throw rug next to the bed on Jake's side! Yay! What a way to end a day!

June Easy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Easy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

1/3 cup margarine, softened
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 Egg
3 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
vegetable cooking spray

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Beat margarine at medium speed with an electric mixer until light and fluffy
Gradually add brown sugar and beat well
Add egg and vanilla, beating well

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add flour mixture to margarine mixture, mixing well.
Stir in oats and chocolate chips

Coat cookie sheets with cooking spray.
Using two teaspoons, drop dough onto cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Portion the dough so that you make about 3 dozen cookies (I never get that many out of this recipe, but that's what it says)

Bake 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
Store in an airtight container

Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Baking Time: 10 Minutes
Yield: about 3 dozen

Per Serving (serving size 2 cookies):
Calories: 101
Carbs: 14g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
Sat Fat: 1g
Sodium: 120 mg
Fiber: 1g
Exchanges per serving: 1 starch, 1 fat
Carb choices: 1

*Note: I usually double this recipe if I'm making it for more than 2 people

this recipe from www.diabetesselfmanagement.com

Updates and such

So it's been a while since I've posted on here. I guess life just happens so fast! Let me give some recent updates:

I have officially resigned from the Manchvegas Roller Girls. There were a lot of reasons at play in that decision, one of the biggest being financial. When I joined a league in Manchester, I didn't think it would be a big deal. However, the gas prices have gone up SO drastically in such a small amount of time that I didn't get to a lot of events. The events were all in Manchester and Concord, which is even further north. There was also a lot of political issues and drama. I won't get into it all, especially where I know they don't want it all aired for the public to know. But, I truly treasure the time I had with the girls and hope that we can maintain our friendships moving forward.

On a similar note, I am going to look into joining Skate Free or Die. They are a league right here in Nashua. They practice in Nashua and Tyngsboro. I sent an email, but haven't yet heard back. They will start playing in August so I hope I can get in with them before then. I'm thinking maybe of going for announcer this time. But, I did really enjoy being a mascot. So, we'll see.

The crazy month of June is almost over. This month I had Colleen's wedding shower and bachelorette party, along with Heather and Evan's baby shower. All of which I had a large hand in planning. It was a good time at all events, and definitely worth the effort, but just a long month.

The baby shower was yesterday and went REALLY well, I thought. Though the guests were a bit early and the guests of honor a smidge late, we all hung out and had a good time. I love that my friends all pool together to make events happen for each other. There's never any question as to what needs to get done and that someone will pitch in and cover all the bases. I truly feel blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life! And, I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET BEAN!!! I am so full of anticipation for meeting baby Jacob! I know I'm going to sob like a little baby myself when I first hold him/her. :-)

Still no word on the teaching front. Evan said that I most likely won't hear much until August anyway. So, I'm not too nervous. I am nervous that I don't have actually classroom experience, except for teaching Hebrew. I think I'm going to look into Sylvan or something and see about tutoring part time. I could use both the experience and money. :-)

I think that's all she wrote for now.

Peace!

May Homemade Mac & Cheese

Recipe from Judi Stevens

Homemade Mac & Cheese

6 Ounces Elbow Macaronie (1.5 Cups)
3 Tablespoons Butter or Margarine
1/4 Cup Finely Chopped Onion
2 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
Dash of Pepper
2 Cups Milk
2 Cups American or Cheddar Cheese (I do one cup of each)
1 Cup Toasted Bread Cumbs

Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain.

For Fresh Bread Crumbs-
Cube Italian bread into large pieces
Put in food processor and pulse until crumbs are desired size- equalling 1 cup
Toast crumbs in melted butter in frying pan until golden brown
Set aside

For Cheese Sauce-
In a saucepan, melt butter or margaring.
Cook the onion in the butter until tender, but not brown.
Stir in the flour, salt and pepper.
Add milk all at once.
Cook and stir until thick and bubbly.
Cook and stir 1-2 minutes more.
Add cubed cheese (American or Cheddar)
Still until melted.


Finishing-
Stir macaroni into cheese sauce.
Turn into a 1.5 qt. casserole.
Pour bread crumbs over top.
Bake in a 350 degree over for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through

Wave to the Queen, bitch!

The Memorial Day Parade in Manchester was SO much fun on Monday! We didn't have nearly the amount of girls as we did on St. Paddy's Day, but it was still a blast! My butt still hurts from sitting on the back of Janna's convertible. But, I was glad to be on there! The crowd ATE us up! The old women seemed to love the Queen, especially. I so love being a part of this great group. I mean, you couldn't have a more diverse group of women pulling together for one thing. It's so much fun! :-)

I'm finally happy with my outfit for Queen Seedy too. I think I have her just trampy enough to warrant the name, but safe enough to still make us good role models. I've incorporated a lot more black and gothy elements. And the most hideous bling! :-)

Yay!

I got my Massachusetts Eductor's license in the mail! I am so excited! I hope to be called for more interviews now! Woot!

This is really starting to sink in! I spent the day at Westford Academy with Evan last week and it was really cool. I liked being able to commune with teens. It was a bit daunting before, but now I think I'm going to be OK! I'm going to teach!

The Cure

I went to see The Cure Monday night. The concert was AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! Truely their best song set that I've seen yet. They played 3, 4 song encores. That's right folks... 12 encore songs! Yay! And they played all of my favorite songs, include my all-time fav Why Can't I Be You!
I wanted to just mush and smush old fat Bob like the big cuddly fraggle he is! OMG... he is just so fucking adorable!
Oh, and yes, I cried again when he hit the stage! I am such a dork! But really, when you love a band so much it's only natural to emote so strongly when in their presence!
The Cure was great, but the audience was odd. I kept wondering where all the Cure fans were at! Seriously! Now I'm not saying you have to be all gothed up to go, nor am I saying you have to be a Cure fan to go, but there was a definite lack of both! No one was singing and dancing to the best songs! Everyone got up for Just Like Heaven, of course. But fucking A man! They did Hot! Hot! Hot! and I was the only one I could see dancing like a fool! That's one of their funnest songs! But, I can't complain. I had an amazing night and Alison seemed to have a great time too! I'm glad she came with me!

Guess who's going to see NKOTB?

This guy!!!!!!!!!! Yup, I got tickets! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everybody has a dream

And my dream is to see the New Kids on the Block! Tickets go on sale tomorrow, but, of course, I will be at WORK with no access to the site on which I can buy the almost-sold-out tickets! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the band that has brought me so much happiness over the years! I really hope I get the opportunity to go... or I'll cry

A Farewell to Doris

So I had another wake to go to last week. It was for Doris, the sales rep I was working with at Winco. She was one of the few people at work that I actually liked and had a personal relationship with. She was young, brass, full-of-life, determined, sweet, caring and giving. We butted heads sometimes at work, but only with work-related issues. We always made sure to see eye-to-eye after a disagreement and move forward.
Doris had turned 39 the week before her death. She had been married just under a year. She was so...happy. She was enamored with her new husband and talked about him all the time. She and I went through her wedding album and talked wedding talk a lot. I remember she got her dress real inexpensively, and she got married at Castleton. They were playing a slideshow of her wedding pictures at the wake... that really got me. I have to say, even after seeing her body, I'm not sure it's 100% set in yet.
I'm getting too used to wakes and funerals. I mean, is it unusual for someone my age to have known so many people who have died? I just sat and tried to count the number of wakes, funerals, memorials or Shiva homes I've been to. I got to 12 and decided to stop counting. Oh geez, lets not even count the pets. I think Doris's death is the first one I've been able to handle "well". I haven't fallen apart. I've cried, but I haven't fallen into convulsions as I usually do. Maybe it's maturation? Maybe it's old hat? I don't know. All I know is I'm fucking sick of death.
Oh, I'm sure you're curious... she fell down the stairs and snapped her neck at the bottom. Her husband found her there....very sad. very, very sad. :-(

MERC

So I am going to the MERC job fair on Wednesday. I am so scared because I really don't have any teaching "philosophies" and such yet. I'm afraid people are going to be asking me questions and I'm going to have to BS my way through it!

I know... I just listen to what everyone else is saying! Cha!

April Apple Chicken Goodness

Chicken with Apples and Cider

Makes 4 Servings

3 Tablespoons reduced-calorie margarine
1 Granny Smith apple, cored and sliced
1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar
Four 4-ounce skinless boneless chicken breasts (or one package Quorn Naked Chik'n Cutlets-vegetarian but not vegan)
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 medium onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings
½ cup apple cider
¼ cup cider vinegar
2 cups hot cooked wide noodles

*I recommend starting the noodles when you start the dish so they are done cooking when the chicken is.

1. In a large, nonstick skillet, melt half of the margarine
Sauté the apples until lightly browned, about 5 minutes
Sprinkle with the brown sugar
Cook, stirring frequently, until tender, 3-5 minutes longer
Transfer to a plate

2. On a sheet of wax paper, sprinkle the chicken with the cinnamon, salt and pepper
In the skillet, melt the remaining margarine
Sauté the chicken until browned, 4-5 minutes on each side
Transfer to another plate (don’t worry, it will cook more in a bit)

3. In the skillet, cook the onion, covered, until tender, 6-8 minutes
Stir in the cider and vinegar
Reduce the heat and simmer 2 minutes
Return the chicken to the skillet
Simmer, spooning the sauce over the chicken until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid is reduced by half, 4-5 minutes

4. Return the apples to the skillet; cook until heated through, about 2 minutes
Arrange the noodles on a platter
Top with chicken mixture, pouring any remaining juices over the chicken

Per serving:
287 Calories
6g Total Fat
1g Saturated Fat
76mg Cholesterol
273mg Sodium
34g Total Carbohydrates
3g Dietary Fiber
24g Protein
34mg Calcium
Points per serving: 6

On the path

So I found out on Friday that I passed the third of the three teacher's tests I needed to take in order to apply for liscensure! I am very excited! I mean, I knew I was going to pass it, but still. It's good to know for sure!

Now I have to buckle down and start working on my teaching resume. Which will be interesting, considering the only teaching experience I have is one year of Hebrew. But, Heahter and Evan pointed out some experiences I've had that would be good to add. For instance, tutoring for Bar Mitzvah and training new employees in other jobs. I'm wondering if I should put down my Life is Good Productions experience. I mean, we made $ for the JDRF, but the only face-to-face contact I had with the kids was a Halloween party for the summer camp. I guess that could count.

I am getting a little nervous about interviewing too. I mean, are they going to see through me and see that I have no real teaching experience? Are they going to be laughing on the inside, knowing that the teenagers are going to have me for breakfast?

I don't know. Evan gave me a bunch of good reading material that I'm working through. I'm hoping that, along with my inner nerd, will help me get through my first year. Also, I'm REALLY interested in working at Nashoba Tech. From what I saw on their website, it's more of a college atmosphere than a white-bred college prep high school. The kids there seem to really enjoy going to school. They get to choose which real-life skills they want to learn. Plus, you have kids coming together from several different towns into one school. There won't be that 9-12 years of built up crap that kids in other high schools deal with. So it seemed on their website, anyway.

So, I'm keeping my fingers crossed both for getting a teaching position by the fall, and for not being eaten alive by 15-year-olds.

Roller Girls

I have been having a blast as Queen Seedy, the mascot for the Roller Girls! This is the first official team sport I've officially been a part of. I can't be a roller girl because I have too many health problems (bone spurs in heels, plantar faschitis, arthritis in my hip, weak ankles prone to spraining, 130lbs of excess fat....) and because I'm poor as a bitch and can't afford skates and safety gear. But, in my heart I'm a derby diva! I get to hang out with some of the coolest women in NH and still feel like part of the team! Plus, I get to wear obnoxious jewels and a crown and have people bow to my insanity! Weeeeeee!

Thus far I've been in the Manchester St. Paddy's day parade, which was a lot of fun, and the opening of the Manchester Harley Davidson. I don't know what I was more jealous of, the 8 wheels or the two wheels!

Which brings me to another point. I will, someday, have a Harley. I have that as one of my goals. If I do get a teaching position this fall, I will be one step closer to getting out of debt, buying a house and, when I'm 50, getting a Harley!

I just want it all now: career, house, kids.... I am so impatient! I'm so sick of being fucking poor! It sucks! Super ass!

And Thus it Starts

Well, a few of my friends have been blogging for quite some time and have detailed accounts of their lives from the last few years. I used to keep a journal, or diary for a good portion of my life. For some reason, that all stopped about 3.5 years ago when I met Jake. I guess I was so overwhelmed with positives that I just stopped writing. You see, I'd been filling those journals and diaries with sob stories of loves lost, unrequited loves or woeful tales of long distance heartaches. Now my life has been turned around and those painful amorous tradegies are mere memories. Jake has made me a complete person.

The reason I want to start a new "diary" is because we are about to embark on our live's journy as a married couple. I think it will be really neat to have documented for myself and my children how I felt in the months up to and the years following our wedding.

This blog will not just be about Jake and I, but will talk about my life in general. So, I hope you enjoy!