CraftyHope: 2007

Christmas Crash

You know that 'crash' you feel after a sugar rush or an all-nighter? That's how I feel right now, since Christmas is over. It was building and building - frantic shopping, hurried wrapping, ripping through presents, and tearing through excellent feasts. Then, a spiral downward, head shaking, muttering, "It's over already? But, I didn't even get a chance to enjoy it." I never got to try Krystal's peppermint or eggnog milkshakes and only just discovered Starbucks' peppermint mocha (soooooo good).
Oh well, there's always next year.
So...what'd ya' get?
ME?
I got a game for the Wii and a promise to go shopping this weekend for the long awaited diamond ring!! (Yes, I'm long married but never got the ring.) I also got a baking stone, a Mickey Mouse ornament, some candy, a beautiful sweater, and some other cool stuff. My oldest niece (age 7) gave me a gold-toned butterfly ring with two red 'stones', and the youngest (age 4) gave me a ceramic plaque to hang that says "Aunt - you make my life a whole lot sweeter." It has pictures of candy on it. Too cute!!

In all, it was a pretty good Christmas, but where all the time went. . . I dunno!

A New Resolve

This week (the gap between Christmas and New Year's) gives off a sensation of transition. As I begin to embark upon the upcoming new year and finish off the last of the cookies, the last of the holiday sales, and the last of this year, I begin to ponder what the new year may hold. For this "Feel Good Friday" I'm thinking about resolutions and goals for the new year.

Before you sit down to write out your 'resolutions,' reflect back over your year's successes and failures. Think about what you did well and what you want to do better. I know it is said that no one ever keeps New Year's resolutions. So, instead of a resolution, try to make a few goals. You've got a little time to think about it. For a little creative inspiration, here are a couple of ideas to make you "feel good" in the new year

Feeling lazy? Make the most of your lazy days.
Change your attitude with some mood foods. This is from Men's Health Magazine. I'm pretty sure these apply to ladies as well, but one never knows.
Still not ready to take on a new year? Boost your self-confidence.

Here are my own New Year's goals:
1. Get organized
2. Lose Weight via diet and exercise
3. Craft more

It's going to be hard to change habits but I just need to find the right motivation.
I found most of the above links at Zen Habits. There's some GREAT information for self-improvement at that site. Check it out when you get a chance.

Get started on your list and lemmie know what your 2008 goals will be.

Late Holiday Wishes

I hope y'all had a festive and great Holiday break, whatever you celebrate (I'm a poet and. . .) So sorry to leave ya' hanging like that, but I'm sure everyone was tied up with family, presents, and way too much to eat to worry about my little blog. I was. I hope your holiday was everything you wished it would be. I hope to be back on track soon as I have quite a long list of links and interesting material. However, I am trying to play catch-up after being away from work for so long. I'll post again real soon (hopefully tonight!!)

Weird Things and Christmas Trees and Celebrities. . . Oh My!

I have just a few links for "Wild Wild Web Wednesday"

If you're like me and have not even out up a Christmas Tree yet, you can still decorate a tree online.
Here's a pretty cool way to manipulate a 3D image
If you thought that was weird/cool, check out these glow-in-the-dark CATS. Yes, really!
While many Guiness Records are pretty weird, here are the weirdest guiness records of them all.
I'm so very excited because Peter Jackson (the guy who made 'The Lord Of the Rings' trilogy) will in fact be working on "The Hobbit" How AWESOME is that?
After seeing the before and after of these photoshopped celebrities, I don't feel so bad about myself. Of course, who's to say that those pictures weren't photoshopped to make them go from good to bad...Wait!! I was feeling good about myself, so why think about reality, I was right in the first place. So there.
Speaking of celebrities, check out this celebrity mash-up of what would happen when you combine a few of our favorite celebrities. WARNING! Some of these pictures are a bit disturbing!

That's all I have for now. While it's been a crazy week for me, it does not seem to be as wild on the web. Sorry!

Ho, Ho, Ho - Ha, Ha, Ha

I don't have anything really fun for today's "Techie Tuesday," and I didn't post my long list of items for "Made Me Smile Monday" so here is a 'Made Me Smile Tuesday' post for you.

First, I have several quite funny videos for you

Jim Gaffigan's comedy routine centered around Hot Pockets made me absolutely cry with laughter.

If you have not discovered 'Flight of the Concords' yet, check out my two favorite songs by them. They have a show on HBO also.

I got to see a picture of one of my work friends from the early '90s where he looked like Magnum P.I. with a fanny pack. I about died from laughing. I promised him I wouldn't post the picture, I didn't say I wouldn't mention it.
College dorm posters could be cliche' even back in my college days.
The signs you may be having a bad day, as done in cat pictures.
How a game of marco polo can catch a criminal.
"Time flies like an arrow, fruit flies like a banana" - Groucho Marx
And some Holiday funnies

With the holiday excuse generator, it's easy to come up with an excuse to not attend one of those many parties you will be invited to this season.
Even though I haven't put up a tree this year, I can still enjoy a a variety of Christmas trees.
While I am nowhere near important enough to receive one, check out the cool LucasFilms Christmas cards from over the years.

That's all for today, I hope I made you smile (if not fall out of your chair laughing).

Clean House and To Do

I assure you that I have NOT dropped off the face of the Earth. I've been attending parties, cleaning house, and overall just been way busy. In fact, I've been so busy, I think I made myself sick and was unable to attend a party Sunday night. I ended up feeling better later in the afternoon on Sunday and LOML* and I decided to paint the guest bathroom.

We're kinda freaking out because I'm having some ladies from my Mardi Gras Society over to our house this week. We don't EVER have people over to our house. All of our friends have kids, and we end up at their houses because it doesn't make sense to bring them over to ours. As such, we have not really focused on making sure our house is in 'company condition.' I'm not saying it was a total wreck, just a slight wreck. You know - surfaces needed to be dusted, floors needed vacuuming, mail needed sorting, and those kind of things. We were also able to accomplish some 'decorating' tasks. Now, the house looks GREAT. I am so glad to have this completed before Christmas and New Year's so hopefully we can go into the new year with a beautifully cleaned house and keep it that way. We'll see.....

So, I'm sorry the blog has been ignored, but I have been accomplishing other items on my to do list. I still haven't really gone Christmas shopping. I made sure to ask my boss at our Company party on Friday if I could have this Friday off to work on the whole shopping thing. I have been granted this request and now have a million lists running through my mind of who I need to shop for, what I need to get, where I need to go, etc. etc. etc. I suppose I should start writing these down. Hmmmm, guess I'd better get to work!

*LOML=Love of My Life

Subscription Change - Please Read

Just a heads up to you regular readers but I have added a feed reader to my blog site. See the big orange button on the top right column? That's my rss feed button. If you were subscribed to my blog previous to this post, you may not receive the updates as expected. Please press the orange button and select your feed preference and your subscription will continue as usual. Sorry for the confusion.

Frugal Gifts for Kids

Kids can be the easiest or the hardest to buy for at times. Some parents tend to get their children everything they want making it hard on those of us who are not their parents, while other children receive simpler gifts and are happy to get anything at all. On this "Thrifty Thursday," I want to share with my idea for shopping frugally for the little and not so little ones.

Basically, I like to do gift baskets for kids. This is easier than you might think.

WHERE TO SHOP:

The toy aisle in you local supermarket will have inexpensive toys and school supplies, but they do tend to cost more than I would pay in other places.
Superstores like Target and Wal-Mart are a good place to start. You can usually count on the quality of the items in these stores. Plus, they tend to have a wall of items in their toy departments that are $1 or less.
Surplus stores like Big Lots and Fred's also offer a great variety of items that you may not find elsewhere.
Dollar stores will help fill out the basket without putting you in the poorhouse.
You may even luck out at a thrift store. I know our Goodwill has begun receiving unopened items from Target.

**What's great is that many times, the small, inexpensive items you can find for gift baskets come in packets of several items, which works if you are buying for several kids. It's really great when you are shopping for several children in the same age range because then you can get great deals when you buy in bulk, even if it is only two items in a package for $1.50.

WHAT TO BUY: Think about the age and gender of the children for which you are shopping to select appropriate items to fill the baskets.

Children who are younger than 4 tend to be difficult to do a basket for because of choking hazards. Soft items like dolls and clothes work best. Yet, I think it is just as easy to find a single toy gift for this age range. These do not usually break the bank and this age range is not too picky about what they receive.
Ages 3-10 - Look in the toy section or at the party favors section of any of the above mentioned stores.

BOYS: cars or other vehicles, transformers, rubber super balls, army men, and anything that looks gross.
GIRLS: small dolls, doll clothes, hair accessories, tea set/cooking accessories, play jewelry, and anything pink.
BOTH: bubbles, play-dough, toy cell phones, crayons, small coloring books, puzzles, fidget games (like the ones with marble you roll around into holes or the ones with the numbers you side around to get in order), and arts and crafts.

Tween to teen: 11-17 - Look in the cosmestics/hygiene section of the stores, especially if they have a travel size section of the store where the small items are usually less than $1 (I like Target's travel section the best.)

BOYS: aftershave, cologne, Axe body sprays, chap stick, nail clippers, combs, small puzzle games (like above), anything electronic, candy, and snacky food.
GIRLS: matchbook emery boards, bath confetti, bath bombs, lip gloss/chap stick, nail files, bubble bath, body spray, lotions, nail polish, nail polish remover, powder, small travel hairbrushes, mirrors, hair accessories (cute pony tail holders, barrettes, or butterfly clips), and candy (esp. candy necklaces and ringpops)

HOW TO PACKAGE

Containers: You can either get the container first so you know the space you have to fill or get it last once you know how much you are putting in there.

For the younger age range, I try to find something with a handle so it is easier for them to carry around. Last year, I was able to find miniature buckets (that looked like the large 5 gallon buckets that everyone has in their garage/shed). I found these in white and simply used permanent markers in a variety of colors to write their names on the buckets.
This can work also for the older boys, but you might also find an inexpensive shave kit bag that will work.
Similarly, cosmetic bags are great for older girls. Both the cosmetic bags and shave kits can also be found in the travel section of stores. Small purses are also good for the older girls' baskets.
Christmas stockings are always an easy alternative for any age range.

To wrap these, I make sure to keep a large roll of clear cellophane in with my gift wrap and simply pull it up around these items with a fun and festive bow (lots of curling ribbon).

Shopping for and making these baskets is usually one of my favorite gift giving practices.

I find that for $5-10 you can make a great little basket for kids. I think thats a really awesome bargain. Frugal and festive, who knew?

Wednesday Web - Tackling to To Do list

Because it is the holidays, I already have a ginormous To Do list. As such, it's nice to complete something on the list. So, here is "Wild Wild Web Wednesday" before it gets too late:

I believe that anybody has the ability to be creative. Just see the art painted by bugs and you'll be a believer too.
After seeing what one lady has to go through at a meal time, I can believe that there is such a thing as too many cats.
I love the Pixar/Disney movies and have seen them all (I think) but was surprised by the number of Pixar easter eggs hidden in the movies and shorts. If you don't know, easter eggs are hidden surprises in movies.
As Christmas approaches, Santa is watching to see who has been naughty and who has been nice. If you're too old for Santa, your parents are still watching. Naughty kids will have their Guitar Hero 3 sold on e-bay by their parents. I guess that's one way to teach them a lesson. (scroll through to read the story)
As a kid, I always wanted an original Game Boy just so I could play Tetris. These days, kids create huge tetris games on buildings that they can control with their cell phones. AWESOME!!!
Wanna scare the CRAP outta your house guests? Put this talking toilet paper holder in your bathroom and be prepared to clean up the mess.
Of course, if your guests have taken gold pills, you will get to enjoy the glittery glow. Oh fun!
The impact of this Sony Bravia commercial is great. Apparently, the clean-up took a little longer, 5 days and 60 people in fact. Thankfully, it was pretty easy to clean up once all the paint dried.
This collection of pictures entitled 'Why I Got Fired' is pretty much all you would have to have on your next job interview to NOT get hired. While they are initially kinda funny, you do wonder if anyone was injured.
While listed as life-ruining movies, the majority of the movies on this list are some of my favorite, though I do get the point.
Again, some of my favorites are listed as the worst. This time it is the worst sitcom character names and some of my favorite shows from way back are used. Ah, the memories of the warm glow from the television as a kid, letting my brain cells wither and die. Wait, I still do that - oh well, too late now.
Lastly, I was excited to hear that Tim Burton will be tackling his own version of Alice in Wonderland. I think the book may have been written for him to make the movie. I can't wait to see how he envisions Wonderland.

Alright, there's the tamest 'wildest of the web' for this week, and one more thing I can check off my list. Thanks!

More Gadget Goodness

I did miss "Techie Tuesday" again. However, I still want to quickly share with you a few more geeky gadgets for the Holidays.

First, is a general history lesson and shows the 100 greatest tech innovations of all time.
Now you don't have to worry about making sure you won't hear your phone or feel it vibrate in you pocket with this vibrating bluetooth bracelet - very cool idea!
Lastly, here's another item I wouldn't mind getting for Christmas. Unfortunately, it looks like the Wii Fit won't be available until January. Boo!

Let me know if you have any cool geek gifts you've found. I still haven't figured out what to get LOML*.

*LOML=Love of My Life

Rainbow Recovery

Well, I made it through the rest of the weekend, including the 6 hour drive home that seemed to take 12 hours. Since the weekend is over, it must be "Made Me Smile Monday"

I had to smile when the boss went looking through the office for his cell phone, only to find it in his pocket.
"That is some yummy wikipedia" is a phrase I will probably never utter aloud, but a Beijing restaurant is offering up stir fried wikipedia on their menu. Try it, you'll like it!!
This video will help explain to you how to protect yourself from zombies:
"Why is it when two planes almost hit each other it is called a near-miss? Shouldn't it be called a near-hit?"
Needing this much instruction in the bathroom would make me wonder about your parents' potty training skills.
I would also wonder about the reliability of this news station if I saw this big of a typo in a caption.
The frosty cold margarita I got after the 6 hour drive home from North Alabama made me grin with joy.
A video of a news report about a pretty dumb cop made me laugh. The funniest part is the person off-camera's reaction.
Remember when you could be mean without using cuss words? No! Well, there once was a time when insults had class, and the speakers were not in third grade.
Watching the antics of teenage girls in a hotel absolutely made me smile remembering all the trouble we used to be on Rainbow trips (and call still be at times - AFA and her 'baby' in the elevator).
Now we know what's really at the end of Rainbows. (Leprechauns are Irish after all)

I hope you have an absolutely fabulous week and if it starts to go sour, pop back in here and think about all the reasons you have to smile!

Rainbows

Well, here I am in a hotel all alone and I'm BLOGGING!

I am in Muscle Shoals/ Florence, Alabama for the Grand Christmas Party. It's a Rainbow thing. If you don't know anything about Rainbows, you can follow the link and it will answer some questions, you can also ask me about it too if you want. Basically, it is an organization for 11-20 year old girls that is sponsored by the Masons. It has some great lessons for girls like leadership and responsibility as well as giving to and helping others. I was in Rainbows as a girl and have continued to be an advisor since I aged out. Now, I am State Mother Advisor. This is just a title and I have no authority. While, it is an honor to hold this position, it is also a lot of work. Hence, my lonely hotel room. I could go hang with the girls, but I am a little to old now to be cool for 16 year olds. Plus, I'm tired from my 6 hour drive.

I just wanted to share and apologize for not posting on Thursday or Friday. I've been in a whirlwind getting everything ready to come here. I'm so glad that I can check this off my list and maybe start to focus on Christmas shopping. Of course, I'll be pretty crazy doing that as well since I haven't even started making lists - so NOT like me. Hopefully, I will be able to get back on my blogging and crafting routine soon.

Fashionably Late

Aw man, I missed "Wild, Wild Web Wednesday." I had a lot going on at work (monthly reports have to be run), and I had to do some shopping for my meeting tonight and for going out of town this weekend. I was exhausted by the time I got home to cook dinner for LOML*. At least he was also tired, so he was sympathetic and helped me with dinner.

I gathered a long list of links for the Wednesday post and still want to share them so I will (It is MY blog dagnabit!!). Since I am running late on this, I'll forgo the (sometimes) witty remarks and just share the links:

This guy actually makes balloon sculptures.
Anything and Whatever Sodas for indecisive persons.
Politically incorrect ads make me glad I wasn't alive back then.
I have amassed my own collection of footwear but none of them are weird shoes.
Having an electric eel light up a Christmas Tree will save you money I suppose.
Check out this video on pets' response to the writer's strike.
Here's an interesting way to handle spam, make it art. Boing Boing also has some information about this handlettered spam.
I would love to go to an art show where there is drinkable art.
What kind of geek are you? This 56 Geeks poster may help you answer that question. (Viewing it in slide show mode makes it easier to flip through)
Here's another gift list: these are 77 Design Gifts for 07 from Core 77. All gifts are $77 or less, some are even free.
Lastly, I'm very excited to say that the trailer for Narnia's Prince Caspian has been released. The movie will be out on May 16, 2008. Yay!! More epic/ fantasy movies!!

Alright, that's what I've got for you for now!! Enjoy!!

*LOML = Love of My Life

Holidayitis

Have you ever heard of 'Senioritis'? Well, it can be a sort of plague in high schools across America - at least according to my high school yearbook teacher. I think I have a case of 'Christmasitis' or 'Holidayitis'. I can't seem to focus on anything for very long. However, surprisingly, I am accomplishing quite a bit.

For "Techie Tuesday" today, let's take it slow and try to let that Great Holiday Spirit encompass us. Here are a few online 'toys' that will keep you busy without actually accomplishing anything.

First, why don't you make a beautiful snowflake. Just click the make a snowflake button and start cutting out your snowflake. It can be quite zen-like.

Secondly, decorate your own gingerbread house without all the baking, stickiness, or tediousness of a real one. Just scroll down the page, select the decoration, and place it on your house.

Well, that's enough geeky goodness for you today. Have fun!

Recycled Christmas Cards

I finished making my Christmas cards last night. They were fun, easy, and recycled some of my old Christmas cards, thus reducing some of the waste in my house. I have yet to write messages and sign them, but that takes much less time overall.

Materials:

- Old Christmas cards*
- Blank cards or cardstock cut down to card size and scored for folding
- 1" circle punch
- Glue
- Embellishments (optional)
- Pen

Directions:

1. Turn punch upside down and insert old Christmas card so you can choose the images you want on the card. Start on edge of card and work inward by tearing off used portions. Make sure to check inside and back of card for images that can also be used.
- Don't just use the obvious images, look for interesting color and pattern combinations. I particularly like the boarders used around most images.
2. Arrange the circles (without glue) onto the card blank/cardstock in the pattern you desire. I simply placed them in three rows and three columns.

3. Once you are satisfied with the pattern you have created, glue the dots into place.
- I found that I had to place something heavy on top of the card or the dots began to curl.
4. Once the dots are dry, embellish the card with stamps, glitter, gold or silver foil, paint pens, sequins, rhinestones, or whatever else you can find.
5. Add a greeting to the inside**, sign your name, and give to a friend.

*Can also use wrapping paper, decorative boxes, seasonal magazines and catalogs, gift bags, scrapbook paper scraps, etc.

**For your ease, here are a few greetings that you can use for your cards:

At Christmas, play and make good cheer; for Christmas comes but once a year. - Thomas Tusser
From home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another; the warmth and joy of Christmas brings you closer to each other. - Emily Matthews.
He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree. - Roy L Smith
Let the Spirit of Love gently fill out hearts and homes. In this loveliest of seasons, may you find many reasons for happiness.
May Peace by your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through.
May the blessings of Christmas be with you today and always.
May you have the gift of faith, the blessing of hope, and the peace of His love at Christmas and always.
Have a magical holiday season.
Hope your holiday season is fun and festive.
May the Christmas season fill your home with joy, your heart with love, and your life with laughter.
May the spirit of Christmas last the whole year.
Bless you and yours this Christmas and always.
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Joyous New Year.
Warmest wishes for a Happy Holiday.
***You can always check out the greetings in the cards you are recycling and use those too. ***

Have fun with this and let your imagination go.

A Lack of Spirit

I don't know what's wrong with me. I can't seen to get into the holiday spirit. This is usually not a problem for me. I guess, I've been so busy with planning for the Grand Christmas Party (this upcoming weekend) and for my Mardi Gras Ball that I just don't have time to stop and evoke the spirit. I also have not accomplished ANY Christmas shopping. Christmas is about GIVING for me and I haven't had time to stop and think about what I will be giving this year. This is NOT to say that I have a case of the 'Bah Humbugs'. I'm just not feeling it yet. If you have any suggestions on how to shake this lack of festivity, please let me know!!

While I can't get into the spirit of the Season, it is still "Made Me Smile Monday," and I do have a few tidbits to share with you:

Check out these photos that were taken at the exact right angle. Can you believe how perfect some of these are?
Timing is also important to get a great shot. Well-timed sports photos are as funny as they are artistic.
Speaking of sports, I had no idea Yogi Berra could be so profound when he made the following comments. There are so many more, but these are my favorites.

"This is like deja vu all over again."
"You can observe a lot just by watching."
"If you don't know where you are going, you will wind up somewhere else."
"If you can't imitate him, don't copy him."
"A nickel isn't worth a dime today."
"Nobody goes there anymore; it's too crowded."
"I made a wrong mistake."
"I always thought that record would stand until it was broken."
"You should always go to other people's funerals; otherwise, they won't come to yours."

Other people say silly things sometimes too. Check out this audio clip of some of the strange calls 911 has received.

Even food can sound a little silly, like this cake from Wal-Mart.
Of course, who wants to LOOK silly. Well, these guys apparently compete for it and have achieved the honor of being recognized as growing the top 10 beards of the year.
While we all can't grow beards as cool as theirs, we can make an attempt to look as cool as them with this great winter beard cap.
Lastly, as a feigned attempt at some Christmas Spirit, here are some funny Christmas Cards. Maybe they'll make you feel more festive than I am.

Look on the Bright Side

Something about "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" from Monty Python makes me feel good. On this "Feel Good Friday" I thought I would share the lyrics with you. If you know the song, hum along!! If not, learn the song by watching it on YouTube. If you've never seen the movie (The Life of Brian) or this clip, please do not take the clip out of context and be offended by the video. I think the movie is quite funny.

Always Look on the Bright Side of Life
words and music by Eric Idle

Some things in life are bad
They can really make you mad
Other things just make you swear and curse.
When you're chewing on life's gristle
Don't grumble, give a whistle
And this'll help things turn out for the best...

And...always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the light side of life...

If life seems jolly rotten
There's something you've forgotten
And that's to laugh and smile and dance and sing.
When you're feeling in the dumps
Don't be silly chumps
Just purse your lips and whistle - that's the thing.

And...always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the light side of life...

For life is quite absurd
And death's the final word
You must always face the curtain with a bow.
Forget about your sin - give the audience a grin
Enjoy it - it's your last chance anyhow.

So always look on the bright side of death
Just before you draw your terminal breath

Life's a piece of shit
When you look at it
Life's a laugh and death's a joke, it's true.
You'll see it's all a show
Keep 'em laughing as you go
Just remember that the last laugh is on you.

And always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the right side of life...
(Come on guys, cheer up!)
Always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the bright side of life...
(Worse things happen at sea, you know.)
Always look on the bright side of life...
(I mean - what have you got to lose?)
(You know, you come from nothing - you're going back to nothing.
What have you lost? Nothing!)
Always look on the right side of life...

What Do You Think About That?

Since I didn't post so much last week, I thought I had more for you on this "Wild, Wild Web Wednesday."

Don't be disappointed just yet. I think you'll like what I do have for you:

Heartily, I wish you a Merry Christmas Ho, Ho...wait - Santa can't even say that anymore.
With that in mind, are you sure you know what you are saying? The words you choose may not mean what you think.
And hey, don't get caught with you pants down, especially around your bicycle. You may be accused of having sex with your bike.
If you think that's pretty outrageous, you'll never believe that Britney is giving out parenting advice - and to Heidi Klum of all people.
For those who are Harry Potter fans, check out these sneak peeks for the Half Blood Prince. I'm so excited to know that it's already in production.
Need something ridiculous and ridiculously expensive, check out some of Sky Mall's odder merchandise.
Lastly, and on a serious note - I have had a hard time figuring out which candidate I support the most in the upcoming presidential election. Minnesota Public Radio has a short quiz that helps you select your candidate based on your political views. It cleared things up for me a bit. But, I'm not going to tell you who it paired me with, try it for yourself.

Well, I told you it would be a short list.

Win-Lose-Win

So a-poker-playing I went last night. No, I didn’t win. I was pretty good for a while, but our gracious, beautiful host began to get drowsy. So, I went "all in" and lost it all (with a really good hand.) I'll spare you the technicals.

Overall, I had a fabulous time seeing my TLT friends. It was a REALLY laid back evening. Well, laid back in that there was no wrestling, shots, shouting, or overall drunken debauchery. Sometimes, things can get wild with that crazy bunch. We had some drinks, played some poker, and ended the evening with some Guitar Hero 3. Much fun!

If any of you from last night read this – I really enjoyed hanging with you!! We need to do it more often.

Poker Night

I am so very excited!
Last night, I received a call from one of my friends at my old job at TLT. She informed me that Poker is planned for tonight!

I last got to see this group of friends on Halloween and am really looking forward to seeing them in a few hours. It has been hard staying in touch with them like I promised when I left TLT. However, I don't know anyone else who has left and still hangs as much as I have. I really enjoy this group of people and can really sympathize with how stressful their work is, as I did it myself for over 8 years. Plus, there will be Poker involved! Yes, I can play poker. I haven't really left with any money the last couple of times I've gotten to play. Yet, that's just luck.
I'll try to remember to let y'all know how I did.
Wish me luck!

BTW - isn't that "Poker Card Guard" b-utiful? Click the picture to check out more of the artist's work on Flickr

Top 10 Geeky Gifts (Wishlist)

The gift giving season is officially upon us (as if you haven't noticed). 'Black Friday' has come and passed, as has 'Cyber Monday.' If you're like me and haven't started your holiday shopping, get your butt in gear. There is plenty to choose from this season.

Since it is "Techie Tuesday," I present you with the gadgets and geek toys that I think are the coolest so far. This is my own personal geek 'wishlist' if you will. Those of you who know me, know that the typical gift I receive from my husband (LOML*) is a gadget of some sort, to my mother's dismay. Some of my favorite and most well-worn possessions (TiVo, MP3 player, PSP, Dell handheld computer, Gameboy, etc.) have been my geeky gifts. However, this year, I've asked for something more traditional (he knows what it is.) This is repeat request, but this year, we may have the money so I can actually get it. Yet, if he must resort to gadgets again, here are my Christmas Top 10 Geeky Gifts. Use this list to shop for the geeks and aspiring geeks in your life.

This leather solar powered bag (while a bit manly) is awfully cool. It would be great for for all my other gadgets. However, I don't have any sunlight at work so I'm not sure how I would manage it. I'll have to ponder that one.
Ah, the ultimate - an iPhone. LOML* and I have been dreaming of one since they were revealed. Yet, changing services and the initial price has made it difficult. However, this would be a godsend for my poor purse and my back. An iPhone would eliminate many of the gadgets already in my purse and make it weigh considerably less.
Because I love to read AND I love gadgets, Amazon's Kindle would be ideal. However, it would not affect my almost weekly trips to the bookstore (for the coffee). Seriously, check out this link and watch the video - you've never seen anything like it.
A USB drive bracelet (wristband). If mine was actually attached to me, I would be so much less likely to lose it. Look at all the beautiful colors you can get. I'm sorry I don't have a link to these. My search found this beautiful image to go with an article saying these would be available at Target. Yet, Target only has 'Hannah Montana' or 'High School Musical' bracelets. I'm NOT interested in those.
Alright, so I don't really want these as Christmas GIFTS, but I want one of each. It's the Roomba and Scooba. These are robots that clean your carpet or hard floors. I HATE cleaning, and these would make my life so much more pleasing. The link to the Scooba shows that you can get a free Roomba if you order that Scooba now.
I have wanted a 20 Q for a while now. It's just a small, electronic, handheld 20 questions game. I have friends that have one, and I swear, the dang game can read your mind - it's kinda freaky. It would be an excellent stocking stuffer.
A GPS Navigation System would be so very neat. I don't really have a great need for one as of yet, but do have an irrational fear of getting lost. This one from Tom Tom is pretty affordable, as far as GPS's go.
I would really love a new camera. One that takes still pictures and video would be AWESOME. Again, I do not have links for this. I have not done any extensive research to locate the exact one I want. But a camera is definitely on the list.
Sirius Satellite radios are pretty sweet. I think a portable one would be great so it can be used anywhere. Again, I do not have all the details of what's included in the satellite deals, but it's all on their site. Think about it, radio without the commercials. I'm addicted to talk radio and this would have more than I could imagine. Cool, cool, cool!
Lastly - GAMES for my Wii, PS2 (PlayStation 2), and PSP (PlayStation Portable)

For the Wii: Guitar Hero 3 (with the Guitar), Mario Party 8, Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Lego Star Wars, My Sims, Carnival Games, Smarty Pants, Cranium Kabookii, Pool Party, My Word Coach, Luxor.
For the PS2: Buzz! The Mega Quiz with 4 Buzzers, Wheel of Fortune, World Series of Poker, Family Feud, and Super Bust-a-Move 2.
For the PSP (my favorite way to play): Sims 2: Castaway, Atari Classics: Evolve d, World Series of Poker 2008: Battle for the Bracelets, The Sims 2: Pets, Super Collapse! 3, Puzzle Quest: Challenge of WarLords, World Championship Cards, Crush, and Pocket Pool.

Now you see how big of a geek I am. I hope this list helped you locate a gift for a geek you love or helped you find what you want for the Holidays. Happy Shopping!

*LOML = Love of My Life

Much Ado About Monday

I actually got to hear "Manic Monday" by the Bangles today and that made me smile. Yes, I know I'm old school and all, but it is "Made Me Smile Monday." And, boy do I have list for you. Here are just a few of the things that made me smile this past week:

Getting to sit around the Thanksgiving table with the people who mean the most to me.
Even though the medical field is no laughing matter, there are still some funny moments for doctors.
Getting compliments on one of my necklaces (NOT the one in my previous post.)
A pizza shaped like Yoda.
The way some things just don't translate like these products from Taiwan (click through the pages to see all the products.)
They must have excellent curbside service on Easter Island.
With the messes that kids make, how it's no wonder some animals eat their own young.
The simple luxuries of a leftover turkey sandwich on fresh bread and lots of mayo (YUM) and Christmas music finally on the airways.
These Mark Twain and Elvis Lego figurines. How funny is it that MarkTwain looks like a pissed off Colonel Sanders and Elvis looks like a prison escapee who just had a stroke? There are even more of these celebrity legos that you can check out and pick your own favorites.
If you're not keen on seeing your favorite public figures in plastic, how do you feel about them being photshopped as Star Wars characters?
Celebrities are just like us and even have their own, interesting, philosophies on sex.
Getting to hang out with old friends and make some new ones at the annual Tiki Party!!
Checking out the fun and funky novelties at Stupid.com
The sunset over Weeks Bay on my drive home this evening.

I hope this is enough to keep you entertained tonight. Let me know if you have enjoyed these.

Crafty Thanksgiving Weekend

I guess I just took what they call a "blogging break" for Thanksgiving. It was not intended. I had planned posts and everything. Yet, somehow, the time just slipped away from me. I did stay somewhat busy, besides eating turkey and pie. I also went to work on Friday, so there. I know you've all been sitting on pins and needles waiting for my next post. To prove that I've been busy, see the crafting I accomplished:

I replaced the cord on the o-ring necklace with a chain

I made some Christmas cards that are going to be gifts (early ones). These are mostly done. I just want to add some embellishments. I'm also going to write a tutorial for these in the next day or so. It has been added to my constant TO DO list.

I also cleaned my craft room. However, I did not take any pictures of it as it's still not organized, cleaned, or decorated in the exact manner I want. I may take some pictures later if I get brave, since there are some aspects to the room that I really do like.

So, it was a fairly crafty holiday weekend. I hope you had a happy turkey day and got to be with the ones you love.

Stay Alert

It's geek day...uh "Techie Tuesday" again. I have a simple but useful online tool for y'all today. It comes from everyone's favorite search engine, Google.

I'm talking about Google Alerts.
This great tool will send (to your e-mail) posts about any subject you request. Google even states some of its handy uses as:

monitor a developing news story
keep current on a competitor or industry
get the latest news on a celebrity or event
keep tabs on your favorite sports team

I use Google Alerts for both work and leisure. I have alerts set up for "copywriting" (for work) and "frugal" and "thrifting" (for leisure.) It's a great way to keep up on your favorite topics without having to perform a search every day.

Best of all, it's so easy to set up:
1. Go to www.google.com/alerts
2. Enter the search term(s) which interest you
3. Select the type of source from which you want to receive information (comprehensive, news, blogs, web, video, or groups). I usually select comprehensive so all my bases are covered.
4. Select the frequency at which you want to receive the e-mails (daily, as-it-happens), or weekly). My preference is daily.
5. Enter your e-mail address
6. Click 'create alert'

That's it. You should start receiving alerts the following day. It is really handy for work or any research you are doing. Just like searching in search engine, try to be selective about the terms you enter or you never know what you may be sent.

Giggles and Grins

There's a holiday towards the middle-end of this week. That, in itself, should make you smile on this Monday. However, if you need just a little more incentive - here's another edition of Crafty Hope's "Made Me Smile Monday"

Here's a great example of how the times have changed and what would have gotten you laid in 1977 would get your butt kicked in 2007.
Your wedding is a day you will always remember but here are some wedding photos you won't forget.
One photographer is able to help kids better envision their dreams of flying.
I am an addict of the Sci-Fi Channel show "Ghost Hunters" (wait, that's not the funny part). One of the investigators, Steve, is a tattoo covered guy. On a recent interview he admitted that in his spare time, he hangs out with his cats, Home Depot and Sassy Lashes. Isn't that funny? It made me smile anyway.
I don't even know how to explain this one. Here are Pop Song Correspondences, letters to or about singers' songs. I definitely laughed out loud at a few of them.
If you enjoy "The Office" on NBC, you will enjoy watching The Office's Top 10 Pranks.
This post from Soule Mama shows that art is always up for interpretation.
A quote: “Without question, the greatest invention in the history of mankind is beer. Oh, I grant you that the wheel was also a fine invention, but the wheel does not go nearly as well with pizza.” – Dave Barry
Cookie cutters for those with a slightly twisted mind.
What made me smile the most this week? LOML* came home!!

I hope you now have as much to smile about as I did.

*LOML=Love of My Life

Floss and O-Ring Necklace

While I didn't post all weekend, I wasn't completely non-productive. I had a fairly busy weekend. LOML* flew into P'cola at 11pm Friday night, we went to our friends' house for dinner and drinks on Sat night, and I crafted almost all day Sunday. See...productive.
You're still in disbelief? Check out this necklace I made from embroidery thread and plumbing o-rings.

These are the materials I used

I made a sketch of the design

And, here's my finished necklace.
(I'm still not happy with the cord so I'll probably work on it tonight to come up with a better solution. ) Sorry, it's not the best picture!

*LOML=Love of My Life

Holiday Cookies

"Somethin' Yummy Sunday" has come and gone. However, with the holidays bearing down on us like a weight - I do have something to share for this weight-gaining season. I received this in an e-mail from a friend and thought it was pretty cool. If you ever need cookie recipe, it's bound to be here. ENJOY!