New Year's Eve! Can you believe it?! I certainly can't.
One of the big questions every year is what will we do on New Year's Eve? There are always a ton of options on probably the biggest party night of the year. But, as you get older I think you lose the desire to partake in some of those options. We're, sadly, still trying to decide what we'll be doing tonight. At this point, it looks a lot like nothing. But, if you do nothing it's so anti-climatic. You feel like a bum or a party pooper for not whooping it up with a little more oomph. Watching the celebrations on TV just makes me envious that I'm not in the MTV studios in Time Square. Not that I'd ever get in but it just looks like so much fun.
The first option on New Year's Eve is going out. There are bars and street parties galore tonight. Almost every venue in the world is hosting some kind of New Year's Eve celebration. It would be very fun to get all dressed up in something shiny and go out to party with the masses. Drink and dance and go crazy on the last night of the year. The problem with this option is that most of these bars and other party places charge and arm and a leg for admission. Who has $100 per person to get into a club? Crazy! Secondly, you have to consider how you'll get home from the event. Have you ever tried catching a cab past midnight on New Year's Eve? Not so easy. That means that one of the persons in your party will have to not drink so they can safely and responsibly drive everyone else home. That's never fun for that person. You could always stay in a hotel within walking distance but add the price of a room to your bar tab and the $100 cover charge and you've got yourself a pretty hefty bill at the end of the night.
Option 2. Go to a New Year's Eve party at someone's house. Assuming you know someone who is throwing a party, this isn't a bad option. You can still get dressed up and party and have a good time. It's a much cheaper option than going out too. But, unless you are planning on sleeping over, you'll still have to deal with how to get your drunk ass home. And, even if someone does step up to be the designated driver, you still have to worry about being on the roads with those people who weren't so responsible. Drunk drivers scare the hell out of me so I' d prefer to be off the roads all together tonight. Also, when choosing to go to a party at a friend's house, you have to be careful about whose party it is. Joe and I found this out last year. We went to a party at his co-worker's house and, while the people were all very nice, they just weren't our close friends. It was like ringing in the New Year with a bunch of strangers. It made us both kind of sad.
Of course, you could always step up and throw a party of your own. This is by far my favorite option. I love having parties and get so excited to make the food and decorate and host people in my home. I've thrown a New Year's Eve party before and had a wonderful time. You have the bonus of just being able to fall into your bed at the end of the night. I also wouldn't mind if our friends needed to sleep over. We've got plenty of room for everyone to crash. My only problem with this plan this year is who to invite. All my friends are far away or on-call for work or have children. If I planned a party, most likely it would just be me and Joe. Maybe if I would've planned earlier people could've rearranged their schedules but it would still probably be a very small group. I had suggested a small dinner party with my sisters but we never followed through on the plan. Now it's just too late.
I hope the rest of you have something splendid going on this evening. I may have to run to Publix and grab a cheap bottle of Andre Blush Champagne just so we can have a cork to pop at midnight. But, Joe doesn't drink champagne so I'd be stuck drinking the whole bottle. Hey, that might not be such a bad idea after all.... the night could be looking up. LOL... Whatever your plans are for tonight, be safe and enjoy yourselves. Don't drive drunk and if you have to be on the roads please, please, please wear your seatbelt! I hope you all have a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Changes
I've always been very proud of the relationships I have with my girlfriends. We've been friends for 14 years and have experienced just about everything together. They are the people who have known me best. The ones who know what I'm thinking just by looking at my facial expression. The ones who've "got my back" when I need some support. The ones who I can depend on to tell me that I'm being unreasonable. I have always treasured my relationship with my girls.
Recently, though, I've noticed that our friendships seem to be going off track. We used to all be on the same page with boyfriends, college, jobs, weddings, houses.... Lately it seems like we're not even reading the same book. We're all at very different points in our lives and it feels like we just don't relate like we used to. We've all got our own personal issues that we're dealing with from infertility to career change to child care to divorce. And, of course, each of those issues is the most important thing to whoever is facing it. I just feel sad that we seem to be drifting in such opposite directions.
I've always heard and been told that marriage is hard work. You and your partner are constantly growing and changing and you have to keep talking and growing with each other to make sure it works. I never thought I had to do the same thing with my friends. I think I took for granted them always being there even if we didn't talk all the time or see each other as much as we'd like. They've been such a constant in my life that I figured they'd always be here. They're all still here but it's definitely not the same.
At this point, I feel like we're just doing the least amount that is necessary to stay in contact. We email several times a week but it's really turned into a generic email to everyone describing your past weekend and what you'll be doing the next weekend. There isn't any depth anymore. The phone calls are definitely fewer and farther between and the actual face-to-face visits are turning into a semi-annual (or annual) event.
I know that I am partially to blame. I've gotten very wrapped up in my life and problems that I don't reach out as often as I should. We all are busy with work and home and whatever else we have going on. It's easier to sit down and pop out a quick mass email than it is to take the time to call her and listen to what's really going on with her. Maybe it's true what they say about the "email age". Sure we can keep in touch easier but you lose a lot of thoughtfulness in translation.
So, I think I am going to add another item to my "goal list" for 2008. I am going to try to be a better friend. I'm going to make an effort to get to know my girlfriends again. I will try to pick up the phone more often and not while I'm doing 10 other things. I'm going to go find a quiet place, close the door and actually listen. I am going to try to make an effort to visit my out of town girls and make more lunch and/or dinner dates with my in-town gal. And girls, if you're reading this, I'm sorry for neglecting you. Our friendships mean so much to me and I'd hate to lose them over something as dumb as being lazy. I may not understand exactly how you feel with whatever problem you're dealing with but I will always be here to listen to you vent.
Recently, though, I've noticed that our friendships seem to be going off track. We used to all be on the same page with boyfriends, college, jobs, weddings, houses.... Lately it seems like we're not even reading the same book. We're all at very different points in our lives and it feels like we just don't relate like we used to. We've all got our own personal issues that we're dealing with from infertility to career change to child care to divorce. And, of course, each of those issues is the most important thing to whoever is facing it. I just feel sad that we seem to be drifting in such opposite directions.
I've always heard and been told that marriage is hard work. You and your partner are constantly growing and changing and you have to keep talking and growing with each other to make sure it works. I never thought I had to do the same thing with my friends. I think I took for granted them always being there even if we didn't talk all the time or see each other as much as we'd like. They've been such a constant in my life that I figured they'd always be here. They're all still here but it's definitely not the same.
At this point, I feel like we're just doing the least amount that is necessary to stay in contact. We email several times a week but it's really turned into a generic email to everyone describing your past weekend and what you'll be doing the next weekend. There isn't any depth anymore. The phone calls are definitely fewer and farther between and the actual face-to-face visits are turning into a semi-annual (or annual) event.
I know that I am partially to blame. I've gotten very wrapped up in my life and problems that I don't reach out as often as I should. We all are busy with work and home and whatever else we have going on. It's easier to sit down and pop out a quick mass email than it is to take the time to call her and listen to what's really going on with her. Maybe it's true what they say about the "email age". Sure we can keep in touch easier but you lose a lot of thoughtfulness in translation.
So, I think I am going to add another item to my "goal list" for 2008. I am going to try to be a better friend. I'm going to make an effort to get to know my girlfriends again. I will try to pick up the phone more often and not while I'm doing 10 other things. I'm going to go find a quiet place, close the door and actually listen. I am going to try to make an effort to visit my out of town girls and make more lunch and/or dinner dates with my in-town gal. And girls, if you're reading this, I'm sorry for neglecting you. Our friendships mean so much to me and I'd hate to lose them over something as dumb as being lazy. I may not understand exactly how you feel with whatever problem you're dealing with but I will always be here to listen to you vent.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
The year in review
What a year it's been. I actually can't believe how soon it will be over. I've been trying to look back over my year and remember some of the ups and downs. It's really amazing how much I've forgotten already.
I started last year out at a New Year's Eve party at one of Joe's co-worker's houses. We weren't with our friends, we were with people we hardly knew and I really hated that. I remember watching the ball drop and being completely overwhelmed with sadness. I actually cried. I think that should've been an indication of how the year would go for me. It's been a really hard year. The hits started coming and really have just kept on coming for us. Joe and I kept wondering when it would be our turn for some good luck.
I can't say the year was all bad. There have been some changes recently that I think will put us in a better place for 2008. I got a new job that has amazing insurance that will actually pay for my fertility treatments. That in itself is huge for us. It's a difference of over $1000 a month that we won't have to come up with. It'll really help take some of the stress away from the treatments. We've decided to start back in the new year and are hoping for some success. It's hard to be optimistic but we're really going to try. It just seems like every time we get our hopes up we get knocked down even further.
Some great things have happened this year. I got two beautiful new nieces who I just adore. They are gorgeous and I'm loving watching them grow. I saw my nephew take his first steps in my living room. That's a memory that I'll cherish forever. I've started taking more responsibility for my health. Joining Jazzercise, while hilarious, is actually really benefiting me and I'm really proud of myself for continuing to go even when I'd really rather sit on the couch.
We got to travel a little bit this year too. Not as much as I'd hoped and not to as glamorous of locations as I'd like but it was nice to get away nonetheless. Our trip to Savannah was pretty much a bust. The rain kept us indoors and away from seeing some of the attractions. We did get to spend time with good friends so that was a highlight. Our trip to Alabama, while short, was very nice. We got to see Joe's family for the first time in months and it was very fun to be around them again. I know Joe misses them so much so I was happy that he was able to be in his element again. He fits in great with my family but nothing can compare to being with your own family. Hopefully next year we'll get some more opportunities to travel. I think I'm definitely going to look for somewhere more tropical.
This post is really hard for me to write and I almost feel like I'm dancing around the big, pink elephant in the room. I guess I just have to dive in and let it all out. Finding out I was pregnant in May was seriously the highlight of my year. When that happened I was on cloud 11. It was an overwhelming feeling of joy and happiness for both me and Joe. When I found out I had miscarried I was devastated but I really pushed those feelings away. I knew that miscarriages were very common. I know they happen all the time and that they are just a fact of life. I knew there was nothing I did that could've prevented it from happening. I think those are the things that got me through the initial shock and heartache. But now, eight months later, the pain is still here and it is still intense.
When I was thinking of writing this post, and I've been thinking about it for a week now, I couldn't help but think how my life would be different had I not lost the baby. I was due January 22, 2008 so that would make me 8 months pregnant right now. I would probably already know the sex of my baby, would have the nursery set up, would've already had my baby shower.... I would have a big, pregnant belly and would be feeling my baby move and kick. It's amazing to think that so much time has already passed. I was hoping to already be pregnant again before my due date came around but it looks pretty unlikely. It's really sad.
It's crazy but I think tonight, writing this post, is the first time that I've really sobbed thinking about my miscarriage. I've cried but I usually just tell myself it's a part of life and move on. I put on my brave face and my "happy" smile for the rest of the world to see. I don't know if it's the fact that I'm looking back on my year of ups and downs or that I'm finally just getting everything out that I've been holding in. It's feels kind of good actually. It's like acknowledging my grief will help me let it go. Hopefully letting go will help me move on and prepare for a new year. And hopefully the new year will be better than this one has been.
I don't usually make resolutions and probably won't this year either. I do have goals that I'd like to achieve so I guess those could be considered resolutions. I would like to be more responsible with my money and really start saving. I would like to re-do my kitchen and my backyard. I would like to continue exercising and eating a healthier diet. Obviously, I would like to get pregnant but I know that's the one thing I have no control over. But I think mostly, I'd like to let go of the past and start living for now. I want to live for me and Joe and what we've got going right now. Stop wondering about what might have been or what will be. Stop regretting decisions that I can't change now anyway. I want to go into 2008 with a clear mind and a clear conscience. I hope this post is a step in that direction.
If I don't post again between now and Christmas, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday filled with family and friends. Love you!
I started last year out at a New Year's Eve party at one of Joe's co-worker's houses. We weren't with our friends, we were with people we hardly knew and I really hated that. I remember watching the ball drop and being completely overwhelmed with sadness. I actually cried. I think that should've been an indication of how the year would go for me. It's been a really hard year. The hits started coming and really have just kept on coming for us. Joe and I kept wondering when it would be our turn for some good luck.
I can't say the year was all bad. There have been some changes recently that I think will put us in a better place for 2008. I got a new job that has amazing insurance that will actually pay for my fertility treatments. That in itself is huge for us. It's a difference of over $1000 a month that we won't have to come up with. It'll really help take some of the stress away from the treatments. We've decided to start back in the new year and are hoping for some success. It's hard to be optimistic but we're really going to try. It just seems like every time we get our hopes up we get knocked down even further.
Some great things have happened this year. I got two beautiful new nieces who I just adore. They are gorgeous and I'm loving watching them grow. I saw my nephew take his first steps in my living room. That's a memory that I'll cherish forever. I've started taking more responsibility for my health. Joining Jazzercise, while hilarious, is actually really benefiting me and I'm really proud of myself for continuing to go even when I'd really rather sit on the couch.
We got to travel a little bit this year too. Not as much as I'd hoped and not to as glamorous of locations as I'd like but it was nice to get away nonetheless. Our trip to Savannah was pretty much a bust. The rain kept us indoors and away from seeing some of the attractions. We did get to spend time with good friends so that was a highlight. Our trip to Alabama, while short, was very nice. We got to see Joe's family for the first time in months and it was very fun to be around them again. I know Joe misses them so much so I was happy that he was able to be in his element again. He fits in great with my family but nothing can compare to being with your own family. Hopefully next year we'll get some more opportunities to travel. I think I'm definitely going to look for somewhere more tropical.
This post is really hard for me to write and I almost feel like I'm dancing around the big, pink elephant in the room. I guess I just have to dive in and let it all out. Finding out I was pregnant in May was seriously the highlight of my year. When that happened I was on cloud 11. It was an overwhelming feeling of joy and happiness for both me and Joe. When I found out I had miscarried I was devastated but I really pushed those feelings away. I knew that miscarriages were very common. I know they happen all the time and that they are just a fact of life. I knew there was nothing I did that could've prevented it from happening. I think those are the things that got me through the initial shock and heartache. But now, eight months later, the pain is still here and it is still intense.
When I was thinking of writing this post, and I've been thinking about it for a week now, I couldn't help but think how my life would be different had I not lost the baby. I was due January 22, 2008 so that would make me 8 months pregnant right now. I would probably already know the sex of my baby, would have the nursery set up, would've already had my baby shower.... I would have a big, pregnant belly and would be feeling my baby move and kick. It's amazing to think that so much time has already passed. I was hoping to already be pregnant again before my due date came around but it looks pretty unlikely. It's really sad.
It's crazy but I think tonight, writing this post, is the first time that I've really sobbed thinking about my miscarriage. I've cried but I usually just tell myself it's a part of life and move on. I put on my brave face and my "happy" smile for the rest of the world to see. I don't know if it's the fact that I'm looking back on my year of ups and downs or that I'm finally just getting everything out that I've been holding in. It's feels kind of good actually. It's like acknowledging my grief will help me let it go. Hopefully letting go will help me move on and prepare for a new year. And hopefully the new year will be better than this one has been.
I don't usually make resolutions and probably won't this year either. I do have goals that I'd like to achieve so I guess those could be considered resolutions. I would like to be more responsible with my money and really start saving. I would like to re-do my kitchen and my backyard. I would like to continue exercising and eating a healthier diet. Obviously, I would like to get pregnant but I know that's the one thing I have no control over. But I think mostly, I'd like to let go of the past and start living for now. I want to live for me and Joe and what we've got going right now. Stop wondering about what might have been or what will be. Stop regretting decisions that I can't change now anyway. I want to go into 2008 with a clear mind and a clear conscience. I hope this post is a step in that direction.
If I don't post again between now and Christmas, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday filled with family and friends. Love you!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Every Kiss Begins With... Blah!
I'd like to take a moment to discuss the commercials that we're currently being inundated with by Kay Jewelers. Can I get a collective blah?! I don't know what advertising company came up with these lame ass commercials but I think it's time to put a stop to them. And, is there seriously women out there, apart from 16 year old girls, that actually buy into these commercials? My guess, they're the ones who wear shirts with Tweety bird on them that say sassy things like, "So Tweet". You know, the real classy ladies.
I guess I have a couple issues with the commercials. My first issue is the absolute, over-the-top cheese factor. Seriously, break the wishbone and you'll get some jewelry? Or, let's pick out a tree and you'll find a box of jewelry underneath. Or the best, our son will read you a fake story while I sneak up behind you with a box. Really?! Who are these people and how do they survive life without puking on themselves from being so cheesy? Those are right up there with the jewelry in food or drink. So not ok. I'm all for a romantic gesture but I think if Joe tried one of those things I might be tempted to laugh in his face and call him a girl. Why not just say, "sweetie I love you and I thought this gift would look beautiful on you." Sufficiently thoughtful and romantic without the sappy sweetness.
Another issue I have with the commercials is the guilt factor. They kind of make it seem like if I guy doesn't buy his girlfriend/wife a gift from Kay that he's not romantic or a good husband/boyfriend. I call bull on this one! A piece of jewelry does not make any man a good husband/boyfriend. It takes everyday gestures to earn that distinction, not just a little box on the holidays. I think it just puts so much pressure on the guy. It's like, if you don't spend a bunch of money on jewelry, how will your woman know you love her? I understand that the advertisers are just trying to make money but I feel really bad for the people who fall for it.
Issue number three is the generic gifts that they showcase. How about a journey diamond necklace, or a round pendant diamond necklace.... the same one that every other woman's husband was guilted into buying. I would much rather prefer a unique piece of jewelry that was picked for a thoughtful reason over a piece that was featured on sale for the holidays and came with a cute little bear and a box of chocolates. There are exceptions here. Diamond studs will always be in style. But, if you're a guy and reading this, toss the chocolates and the bear and wrap the present yourself. Lots of brownie points for that!
I guess my point here is don't be guilted into buying some crappy gift because of a really bad commercial. And I don't want to make it seem like I'm anti-jewelry, because that is so not the case. I just think that a gift should be thoughtful and purchased because you know that the recipient will love it. Look at her everyday style. Does she wear yellow gold or white gold, big trendy jewelry or simple and classic pieces? A little observation can go a long way to finding a gift that is perfect without being covered in generic cheese.
Happy holiday gift (and jewelery) shopping. Try not to get nauseous when watching the jewelry commercials... and try not to get sucked in! If you feel it happening for heaven's sake walk away, or at least change the channel!
I guess I have a couple issues with the commercials. My first issue is the absolute, over-the-top cheese factor. Seriously, break the wishbone and you'll get some jewelry? Or, let's pick out a tree and you'll find a box of jewelry underneath. Or the best, our son will read you a fake story while I sneak up behind you with a box. Really?! Who are these people and how do they survive life without puking on themselves from being so cheesy? Those are right up there with the jewelry in food or drink. So not ok. I'm all for a romantic gesture but I think if Joe tried one of those things I might be tempted to laugh in his face and call him a girl. Why not just say, "sweetie I love you and I thought this gift would look beautiful on you." Sufficiently thoughtful and romantic without the sappy sweetness.
Another issue I have with the commercials is the guilt factor. They kind of make it seem like if I guy doesn't buy his girlfriend/wife a gift from Kay that he's not romantic or a good husband/boyfriend. I call bull on this one! A piece of jewelry does not make any man a good husband/boyfriend. It takes everyday gestures to earn that distinction, not just a little box on the holidays. I think it just puts so much pressure on the guy. It's like, if you don't spend a bunch of money on jewelry, how will your woman know you love her? I understand that the advertisers are just trying to make money but I feel really bad for the people who fall for it.
Issue number three is the generic gifts that they showcase. How about a journey diamond necklace, or a round pendant diamond necklace.... the same one that every other woman's husband was guilted into buying. I would much rather prefer a unique piece of jewelry that was picked for a thoughtful reason over a piece that was featured on sale for the holidays and came with a cute little bear and a box of chocolates. There are exceptions here. Diamond studs will always be in style. But, if you're a guy and reading this, toss the chocolates and the bear and wrap the present yourself. Lots of brownie points for that!
I guess my point here is don't be guilted into buying some crappy gift because of a really bad commercial. And I don't want to make it seem like I'm anti-jewelry, because that is so not the case. I just think that a gift should be thoughtful and purchased because you know that the recipient will love it. Look at her everyday style. Does she wear yellow gold or white gold, big trendy jewelry or simple and classic pieces? A little observation can go a long way to finding a gift that is perfect without being covered in generic cheese.
Happy holiday gift (and jewelery) shopping. Try not to get nauseous when watching the jewelry commercials... and try not to get sucked in! If you feel it happening for heaven's sake walk away, or at least change the channel!
Sunday, December 9, 2007
What comes before Part-B?
PART-AY!!!
So, Joe and I survived my office Christmas party. We actually had a pretty nice time too. I didn't end up getting a dress but I did get a really cute red shirt. See picture to the left and in the family album.
The party was very nice. It was in a beautiful ballroom at the Radisson resort. I was shocked at the number of women in full-on ball gowns and cocktail dresses. I still didn't feel under dressed in my pants and shirt combo. I think I fooled most of my co-workers by straightening my hair and wearing red lipstick because until I walked up and said hello it seemed like none of them recognized me. I was also a little more "boobs-out" than I thought I would be. I hope they don't start thinking of me as the office hussy now. We didn't spend much time with my co-workers, we pretty much hung out at a table with our friends. Thank God they were there because I really don't think the night would've been as fun without them. I don't really know my co-workers that well so I didn't even know what to say to them. I pretty much just introduced Joe, said a few pleasantries and then bee-lined back to our table.
I also realized how long it had been since I'd been at a function and drank in front of other people. I've had a few beers here and there or had a couple of glasses of wine. Mostly at home though, where I wasn't responsible for talking to people. I knew I wasn't going to drink anything extravagant at the x-mas party and I stuck to red wine all night. But, I was only 1 glass in when my girlfriend looked over the buffet table at me and said, "Tricia are you buzzed already?". Apparently, she could already tell because I was really feeling it. It set in pretty quick. I had two more glasses and was feeling pretty good by the end of the night. I was reminded later that I went on a tirade on the ride home about some girl who only feeds her children organic food. I guess I was a little harsh but, seriously, who does that?!
The company gave out some pretty nice prizes. Unfortunately, I didn't win any but I was surprised by how many people did win something. I think the best part of the night was actually getting dressed up and going out somewhere. Being able to have drinks with friends and talk and laugh was great. Joe and I got to slow dance together for the first time in a long time so that was nice too. Probably the next time we'll get that opportunity will be Lindsey's wedding so I'm going to cherish it for now.
Welp, that's the run-down of the Christmas party. If you all went to any x-mas parties this season and have funny stories, I'd love to hear them. Don't forget I'm launching the shuttle later today. Look towards the sky around 3:20pm and give a little "absofreakinglutely" shout for me.
So, Joe and I survived my office Christmas party. We actually had a pretty nice time too. I didn't end up getting a dress but I did get a really cute red shirt. See picture to the left and in the family album.
The party was very nice. It was in a beautiful ballroom at the Radisson resort. I was shocked at the number of women in full-on ball gowns and cocktail dresses. I still didn't feel under dressed in my pants and shirt combo. I think I fooled most of my co-workers by straightening my hair and wearing red lipstick because until I walked up and said hello it seemed like none of them recognized me. I was also a little more "boobs-out" than I thought I would be. I hope they don't start thinking of me as the office hussy now. We didn't spend much time with my co-workers, we pretty much hung out at a table with our friends. Thank God they were there because I really don't think the night would've been as fun without them. I don't really know my co-workers that well so I didn't even know what to say to them. I pretty much just introduced Joe, said a few pleasantries and then bee-lined back to our table.
I also realized how long it had been since I'd been at a function and drank in front of other people. I've had a few beers here and there or had a couple of glasses of wine. Mostly at home though, where I wasn't responsible for talking to people. I knew I wasn't going to drink anything extravagant at the x-mas party and I stuck to red wine all night. But, I was only 1 glass in when my girlfriend looked over the buffet table at me and said, "Tricia are you buzzed already?". Apparently, she could already tell because I was really feeling it. It set in pretty quick. I had two more glasses and was feeling pretty good by the end of the night. I was reminded later that I went on a tirade on the ride home about some girl who only feeds her children organic food. I guess I was a little harsh but, seriously, who does that?!
The company gave out some pretty nice prizes. Unfortunately, I didn't win any but I was surprised by how many people did win something. I think the best part of the night was actually getting dressed up and going out somewhere. Being able to have drinks with friends and talk and laugh was great. Joe and I got to slow dance together for the first time in a long time so that was nice too. Probably the next time we'll get that opportunity will be Lindsey's wedding so I'm going to cherish it for now.
Welp, that's the run-down of the Christmas party. If you all went to any x-mas parties this season and have funny stories, I'd love to hear them. Don't forget I'm launching the shuttle later today. Look towards the sky around 3:20pm and give a little "absofreakinglutely" shout for me.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Come Clean
You all know how much I loath cleaning. I've talked about it here in embarrassing detail before. But, it's a necessary evil, and I hate bugs and dirt, so I am obligated to do it. I came across an article on MarthaStewart.com that talked about the guide to spring cleaning. I know it isn't spring but I've never really done a "spring cleaning" so I wanted to see what Martha suggested. What I learned from the article is that either I am the worst housekeeper ever or that Martha Stewart is a crazy, sadistic clean freak who gets her jollies from destroying dust bunnies.
I was shocked at the things Martha says I should be doing on an annual basis. Cleaning the refrigerator coils? Washing the window screens? Wash outdoor light covers? Huh?! I've lived here for more than three years and have never done any of that. Is that bad? Is that something that you people out there are doing? Why was I never taught that these were necessary things? I was intrigued and wanted to find out what else I wasn't doing that I was supposed to.
I found another section, "Routine Cleaning". Apparently, these are the things that I should be doing regularly throughout the week. Again, I was shocked while reading the suggestions. Hand washing the burners on the stove once a week? Removing the stove knobs to wash? Soaking the oven racks? Removing and cleaning the filter in the vent hood? (I didn't even know that one was possible) Cleaning the cabinets once a week? Washing the trash can once a week? Who has time for all that shit? Do you all do that stuff? Am I a crazy, dirty slob?
I do stuff that I think is necessary. I dust once a week or so and I wipe down my kitchen counters every night but some of the other stuff suggested just doesn't cross my mind until the dirt is no longer avoidable. I don't clean my blinds on a regular basis. I only vacuum my floors like once a week and I only mop when I really have to, probably every two weeks. I don't vacuum my furniture regularly and I don't clean my sliding glass door, my mirrored closet doors or the french door in my family room. I know that my house isn't sparkling and spotless but I guess I never realized what all I wasn't doing that needed to be done.
I suppose what I'm trying to figure out with this blog is if I'm a slacker or if I'm just like the rest of you. Are you all following Martha's suggestions for a super clean and shiny home or do you all just do what's necessary to get by? If you fall into the former category please let me know how you get the clock to stop everyday so you can fit all that extra crap in. Thanks!
I was shocked at the things Martha says I should be doing on an annual basis. Cleaning the refrigerator coils? Washing the window screens? Wash outdoor light covers? Huh?! I've lived here for more than three years and have never done any of that. Is that bad? Is that something that you people out there are doing? Why was I never taught that these were necessary things? I was intrigued and wanted to find out what else I wasn't doing that I was supposed to.
I found another section, "Routine Cleaning". Apparently, these are the things that I should be doing regularly throughout the week. Again, I was shocked while reading the suggestions. Hand washing the burners on the stove once a week? Removing the stove knobs to wash? Soaking the oven racks? Removing and cleaning the filter in the vent hood? (I didn't even know that one was possible) Cleaning the cabinets once a week? Washing the trash can once a week? Who has time for all that shit? Do you all do that stuff? Am I a crazy, dirty slob?
I do stuff that I think is necessary. I dust once a week or so and I wipe down my kitchen counters every night but some of the other stuff suggested just doesn't cross my mind until the dirt is no longer avoidable. I don't clean my blinds on a regular basis. I only vacuum my floors like once a week and I only mop when I really have to, probably every two weeks. I don't vacuum my furniture regularly and I don't clean my sliding glass door, my mirrored closet doors or the french door in my family room. I know that my house isn't sparkling and spotless but I guess I never realized what all I wasn't doing that needed to be done.
I suppose what I'm trying to figure out with this blog is if I'm a slacker or if I'm just like the rest of you. Are you all following Martha's suggestions for a super clean and shiny home or do you all just do what's necessary to get by? If you fall into the former category please let me know how you get the clock to stop everyday so you can fit all that extra crap in. Thanks!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
