Mishaps

All yesterday I kept thinking that I couldn't wait to get home and clean out my closet. I think the Oreck has really done something to me. Suddenly I want to clean EVERYTHING! I went to Happy Hour with the girls and drank two of Adobos famous Margaritas. That was one too many. Jessie and I took a taxi home because it began sleeting and neither of us remembered an umbrella. We set to work immediately!

I don't like to let go of things; especially clothes. I feel guilty for saying goodbye to them; like I didn't appreciate them anymore. And I also wonder, "what if" or "just in case." The good thing is that I found some lost articles of clothing just by removing boxes from the bottom of my closet. I used the smaller Oreck and attachments to suck up all the dust bunnies that have been growing for the past two years. I even have a vision of moving my shoes to the bottom of my closet so I can use the top for sweaters. I have my sweaters in boxes under my bed an I'm too lazy to look for them or put them away. I think I'll get more use out of my snuggly sweaters this way.

Just as I'm feeling awesome about myself I heard a snap. Wouldn't you know it!!!?? My closet bar snapped in half and my clothes fell on top of me and a hanger scratched my chest. I'm not angry or frustrated. I just shouted a small little expletive. More out of shock than anger. I quickly called Jessie over and said cheerily, "Hey, look what I did to my closet!" What is a girl to do?!!! Looks like I should have given away more clothes than I originally did. I'm a clothes whore! I know it, you know, we all know it! No surprise there. What is God trying to tell me?

The evening ended two hours later and I was finally tired of cleaning. I peaked out the window and thought, "hey, when did it snow?" Two inches were on the ground at that point. So I decided to go to bed early because I had to wake up early to go get my haircut (for the first time in five months). I jumped out of bed and got ready to go. I opened up the door and the sunrays warmed my face and I breathed in the cool air. I was a happy girl...for a moment. I didn't even look down as I stepped out the door onto the ground. Next thing I knew I was on my butt with my feet in the air. Unfortunately for my thumbnail, it broke the fall between my cheeks and the cement step. I let out another expletive. I quickly jumped up and looked around to make sure no one saw me. How come things like that are funny when you're with someone else and just humiliating when you're alone? You can't laugh and joke about it that way!

The final mishap (and lets hope that that's it for the day) was walking to the hair salon. The sun was causing the snow to melt from rooftops and awnings. Just as I walked by an awning, snow flew from the roof, bounced off the awning and hit my head. Nice. A good start to a good day.

I do like my hair. Its back to its original dark color and has a few highlights here and there. It looks much healthier and I am much happier! The Charles Ifergan salon was really great and everyone was definitely trendy. Once again I felt like a schlepp compared to most of them. But they're professionals. We're supposed to aspire to be them. The place was buzzing and beautiful (albeit a little plastic) women were talking on their cellphones and speaking with their stylists like they'd known them for years. I was waiting for someone to bust out the bend and snap. It just had that feel.

Tonight I'm going to a fundraiser for work. I wasn't planning on going but my boss asked me to attend. Apparently these people really want our office to be represented. That's fine with me because I do like the hosts and I get in free. My friend, Fernando, is going with me. This way I'll know someone and won't be standing by the appetizers all night holding my phone and trying to look important.

Last Night

By the way, I Oreck'd last night and it was awesome. I have never seen such clean baseboards. I feel like a whole new person.

Paste-y White Thighs...

I feel like a train just hit me. I just realized that I have to go swimsuit shopping. In February. After months of darkness. The brightest light I've seen in the past few months is the glow from thighs. Long gone are the days of the "Green Monster" and my skinny-assed self. Its true, when you don't eat, your metabolism rebels. And here I am paying the price for three weeks of zero appetite. Why won't you come back to me?

In two and a half weeks I will be taking a trip to Honolulu with the parentals and my friend, Wendy. I'm ready to soak up the sun, breath in the clean air, smell the salt of the earth, read a good book, see daylight and eat fresh pineapple. I can almost feel it, smell it, see it, hear it and taste it! Hey, that's all five senses. Took me a second to remember one of them. I'm not going to tell you which one. What I've already told you is embarassing enough already. I promise you that I made a 4.0 every semester of college but two. Those were in Italian III and Figure Drawing, so get off my back!

I have forgotten about the bathing suit part. Chicago living requires less need of a swim suit than Dallas living. In Dallas I would layout by the pool or go to a lakehouse with frequency. I'll have to make more use of the Chicago beach this summer now that I won't have Sunday Second City class. But seriously y'all! I'm not ready to try on a bikini while peering at myself under flourescent lights that accent every flaw of my skin. I'm not! I'M NOT! But I do want to give a shout out to American Laser Centers. Bless you.

I'm sure I'll blog about my trip to some department store desperately trying to find a suit that makes me look tan, 20 lbs. thinner and acne free.

Headshots

So I had headshots taken a little over a year ago. I hate them. I really do. Since when do I have a big nose? Everytime I look at the pictures I want to go run 14 miles. Its not that each individual picture is so horrific, its the sum of the whole thing that creates a heated frustration within my soul! I desperately want to have them retaken; especially now that my hair is longer. Teenage acne is still present.

But I need to have SOMETHING that I can send out. Something is better than nothing, right? Or would I be sabotaging myself by sending in a very unfortunate picture. Maybe it would help me. Some dynamic casting agent will be surprised by my beauty in real life! Or maybe my chances of being chosen will be slim because of a photo that does nothing for me.

Seriously! I am a photogenic person! How could the one time that I need photos to really work for me, THEY DON'T?!!!!! Anyone out there know of someone fabulous to take my headshot? Anyone? Bueller? I'll do it. Just give me a little bit of time to make this huge horrific pimple to leave my face. Anyone know of a dermatologist? Anyone? Bueller?

Now that I've been through the process once I know a little more. Have someone do my make up. Have my hair done before the shoot. Wear clothes that are ironed (like I wouldn't). SMILE, SMILE, SMILE! I look weird when I don't smile in my pictures. Note to self....

How am I ever to be discovered?!!!! You know what? I bet my pictures would turn out better if I didn't wear makeup, put my hair in a pony tail and wore a velour sweatsuit. Its when I try that I don't succeed. Hey, a new philosophy! I'm sure if I sit here that all good things will come to me!

So I'm debating on getting my pictures made into 8x10's just to have something. I don't know if I can bring myself to do it. Maybe I'll just get 50 made and call it a day. Hopefully I won't be calling it a career.

What I'm Listening to Today

Actually this is my December 2005 mix. I like to date my mixes. Or maybe I should use the more up to date terminology that my little brother will understand: playlist.

1. Wonderwall: Ryan Adams
2. The Blower's Daughter: Damien Rice
3. Ring of Fire: Johnny Cash
4. Solsbury Hill: Peter Gabriel
5. Perfect World: Indigo Girls
6. Advent: Jackopierce
7. Still Crazy After All These Years: Paul Simon
8. Transatlanticism: Death Cab for Cutie
9. You're Beautiful: James Blunt
10. Trouble: Ray LaMontagne (love his voice!)
11. Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes: Paul Simon
12. Landed: Ben Folds
13. Me & Julio Down by the School Yard: Paul Simon (I must have a thing for him)

Kid Speak

My brother and I were IM'ing earlier today. I didn't understand half of what he was saying. Kids these days are learning a whole new language. My concern is that they won't be able to speak or write correctly in the future. But please notice his response to how he's doing. "Quite good." What 9th grader answers like that? It gives me hope for him.

Katy: hey drewbs
Andrew: Wuzza
Katy: lol
Katy: wuzza wi u
Andrew: Wut is moms na,e?
Andrew: Name*
Andrew: Just got done w/ skool
Andrew: But wuh is moms messenger bame?
Andrew: Name*
Andrew: And erins
Katy: i think its _______
Katy: erin's is....
Andrew: Ok
Andrew: Witabout lorac for mom?
Katy: what is lorac
Andrew: Her name back
Katy: oh funny.
Andrew: How wuz your show
Andrew: ??
Katy: it was fine. you can read about it on my blog.
Katy: we only got 9 minutes on stage instead of 15.
Andrew: Ok
Katy: i was ticked!
Andrew: Ouch
Katy: yeah, but i'm over it.
Andrew: That sta inks
Andrew: Haha, kool
Katy: i had to come to work to get some rest. this weekend exhausted me.
Katy: how are you.
Andrew: Quite good
Katy: did you have a good weekend?
Andrew: Duhhh
Andrew: H/o I gotta feed tha pupps
Katy: i'm learning so much from your IM lingo.
Andrew: Haha
Andrew: Ok
Andrew: Brb?
Katy: i'm here. oh you brb? (Note my confusion)
Katy: be right back. got that one
Andrew: Lol?
Katy: oh try me.
Katy: laugh out loud
Andrew: Hah
Andrew: Nice
Katy: lylas?
Andrew: I hav no idea
Katy: hahaha. Love ya like a sis. that's back from my day.
Katy: you know, back when we wrote letters
Katy: that's with paper and a pen
Andrew: Hahahaha
Andrew: A pen?
Andrew: Wuts that?
Andrew: Haha
Andrew: Jk
Katy: you better be
Andrew: Do u kno jk
Andrew: Oh good
Andrew: Lol
Katy: i define jk. i made it up
Andrew: Hmmm
Andrew: Bbfn?
Katy: bye bye for now.
Katy: took me a second.
Andrew: Bbl?
Andrew: Hah
Katy: babealicious?
Andrew: Nope
Andrew: Be back lata
Katy: oh, fooled again.
Andrew: Haha
Andrew: Wutabout gtg?
Katy: got to go. good to go. green tight girdle?
Andrew: Got to go, nice job
Andrew: Well I gtg
Andrew: So ttyl sis

9 Minutes of Fame

Last nights improv set was more like a few minutes of play time on the stage. We found out that we were going first and that Tim was having a root canal and wouldn't be there to do the lights. Anne was running late and ended up not making it in time. I think she was mad that we went ahead and performed but we had no choice. They wouldn't let us wait a couple of minutes.

The show was fine. I think most of us were disappointed with our performances. Jeremy and James had the best scene of the night. The hilarious song is what made it funny. When the song ended, the lights were pulled. The class after us said that the set seemed really short. I thought it did too. Then I looked at my watch and we had been on stage for all of 9 minutes. I was ticked. I'll admit it. My first thought was, "I took a shower for a 9 minute show!" The other classes got their full 15 minutes. I don't know why they pulled the lights early. It ended on a high note but we had 6 minutes to try to pull off another great scene. I will have words in class on Sunday! I'm not sure what kind of words considering I'm not exactly the most confrontational person.

We did stick around to watch the Level 5 shows. They were amazing. I turned to Jason and James and said, "We have so much work to do!" It scared us a little but more than that I think we were inspired. I got really excited to do the show and to work on it. Where and when else will I have the opportunity to write a show with a talented cast, put it up on a Second City stage, have people run lights for us and have a director all at my finger tips? I think we need to make the most of this opportunity. John's class is already rehearsing outside of class. I have a feeling that we will need to do that soon.

I wrote a song for the show. It may or may not make it. The last line of the chorus is "When I walk into Victoria's Secret it makes me want to kill myself." It's a humerous song.

Fish Out of Water

Saturday night after seeing a terrible sketch show at Chicago's Sketch Fest, I had planned on going home and cleaning my apartment. I could hardly wait to use the Oreck vacuum. But as usual, I was lurred away from my cleaning plans by an opportunity to hang out with friends. Ashley had called and I ended up going to her apartment before we met a friend of hers. It took her two hours to get ready, TWO! Had I known that I wouldn't be going out until after 11 pm I would have headed home. Whatever, it was good to see a friend and glad I did it.

The awkward moments didn't start until I heard where we were headed. John Barleycorn. Did you not hear me? JOHN BARLEYCORN! Gag, eww, psh, blah, blech....John Barleycorn. This place was definitely not my style. I prefer to sit in a quieter place where you can listen to music and talk with your friends. This mega bar is more of a meat market. Granted its not nearly as bad as say, Cherry Red, but still gag, eww, psh, blah, blech. Now Ashley is much more experienced in this world. She works at Rockit Bar for goodness sake. She was definitely in her element. I on the otherhand was just following her around and gathering up the strength not to run out of there.

First of all, Ashley was dressed in her going out clothes: sparkly top, new jeans, heels and a faux fur jacket. I of course was dressed to go play flag football: black shirt, jeans, sneakers and a puffy green jacket (note that I was supposed to go home and vacuum). She looked ready for going out and I looked like sporty spice...the lesbian looking one. I just sang of insecurity! Secondly, Ashley new how to work the room. She got her trademark Effen Black Cherry and Soda drink and surveyed the room. She asked if I wanted to do a walk through. "A WHAT?!!" "A Walk through. You know, walk through the room and check out everyone." "Yeah, I gathered that one." NO I DON'T WANT TO DO A WALK THROUGH. I WANT TO DO A RUN HOME! But I followed her around anyway. I made sure I made no eye contact with anyone. Lord, Why am I single? Anyway, we made our way upstairs to the dance floor. I was so cheesed out by everything around me. I couldn't help but pull out my trademark moves: the robot and anything that made me laugh at myself. Why do people take themselves so seriously? I think we were upstairs for all of 4 minutes. We came back downstairs and met up with her friend and thankfully Jason (fellow Second City classmate) showed up. See Jason, I mentioned you in my blog. I didn't get home until 2 am. I still have yet to vacuum.

Oreck Vacuum!

I asked for just a normal every day vacuum cleaner for Christmas. I don't necessarily have carpet in my apartment. Its wall to wall wood flooring. But I do have one rug in my room. Admittedly I haven't vacuumed it in probably 8 months...maybe longer. Its not that I'm super messy, I just don't step on it all that often. Plus I'm lazy. My old roommate had bought us a vacuum cleaner. Wait, let me clarify. It was a handheld Dirt Devil. We had more rugs back then and vacuuming meant getting on your hands and needs and sliding the little handheld Dirt Devil back and forth over the rugs. NOT. FUN!

So when I received a huge Oreck box in the mail at work yesterday I lept for joy! This is like a top of the line, down to business vacuum! I love to vacuum! I love seeing the lines it makes in the carpet. I like the instant gratification it brings! Granted carpet is scarce in my apartment, but it still does wonders on the bare wood floors! I think I scared Jessie and Janell a bit with my enthusiasm.

My mom can't help herself. She has to go all out! This thing puts the Dysen to shame. It's smaller, light weight and comes with a smaller vacuum buddy that has easily accessible attachments so I can clean window sills and baseboards. ITS BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Run Away

Last night Jessie was laying on my bed and I was on the floor lacing up a new pair of shoes (I'm a shoe junkie!). Neither one of us wanted to go to bed because I think we were both dreading the next day. Its not that there was anything awful happening, its just the fact that the next day wasn't a weekend day.

I looked at her and said, "hey, lets run away!"

She enthusiastically yelled "OKAY!"

Of course both of us are way too responsible to do something like running away.

I said, "Sometimes I wish I was kidnapped. Not by some sick and violent rapist. More like by some really fun friends who want to rescue me! That would be cool."

Have I reverted to some morbid perspective? Yikes!

Biggest Loser

Apparently there are "auditions" for The Biggest Loser down the street from work. There was already a line last night as I walked by my el stop. These people are serious. I also saw some people who did not need to be in line for the show. I wanted to pull some of these girls out of the line and tell them that they are beautiful and in no way should they be in line! Maybe what they need is counseling! But I have to admit that its slightly tempting to jump in line. I'd get really skinny, be on television and I just know with my cute personality that I'd become a reality star. Ha! There's more to life than that and I'll keep on pursuing something a little more grand.

Sunday Class

Yesterday was an extremely emotional class as we discussed Jim's death and also the death of Laurie's fiance', Tommy. The class was as wonderful as it was emotional. Tim O'Malley was the perfect teacher for us yesterday. He knows us all well and he was great about opening up discussion. There were definitely tears but also laughter as we shared memories. He suggested that we write some of these down to send to his family and to Second City. There is another article on Jim today in the Chicago Tribune.

I think our class is really bonding again which is something that we need. After class we spent a good hour acting like Junior High drama kids at Corcorans. We had a window booth and would wave enthusiastically at everyone walking by and then laugh hysterically. Maybe we all needed that release. One guy walked by and thought that he probably somehow knew us. He paused, partially waved, then looked inquisitive. I just waved him on because why torture him. Then we raised the dorkiness level by acting like mannequins in the window. No one stopped to look. I can't believe I just shared this information. I mean we were pathetic but we also were dying of laughter. It was just what we needed.

Jim Zulevic

I just found out some really tragic news. A beloved teacher and performer died of a heart attack a few hours ago. Jim Zulevic died today. I don't even really know what to say or think. I am in shock to hear such devastating news. His death marks the loss of a wonderful, hilarious and talented person. Tomorrow we were supposed to have our first level 5 class at Second City with him as our teacher. He coached our class into better performers only a few months ago. It just won't be the same.

Fattest City

Well, it looks like I live in the just named Fattest City in America. I can't cut a break! Seriously, how am I ever to get fit and remain thin when I live in the one city that ranks as the fattest in the good ol' U S of A? And the U S of A is probably the fattest country in the world. It's a constant battle folks. I guess I need to move to Hawaii where they have the second most fit city in America. I'll take one for the team and move there.

Speaking of Hawaii...I am taking a trip there in one month!! My sweet parents have invited me and my friend Wendy to accompany them to the great city of Honolulu. I think I'll prepare myself for this trip not by exercising but by watching my guilty pleasure, Blue Crush. I own it. It's true. You're than welcome to come over and watch it with me. I know you want to. Or I could go for the more innocent Gidget movies. But don't let her innocence fool you. She was pretty wild back in her day. Don't think I won't be taking surfing lessons by guys ten years my junior with beach blonde hair and tan (notice that's beach, not bleach).

Christmas Gift

Christmas was once again a magnificent experience. How could I not enjoy Christmas when I have the most loving and generous family on the face of the planet? We are so loving that it's disgusting...I love it, so go ahead and be disgusted!

One of the gifts I received on Christmas that has just stayed with me is the gift of poison ivy. It's the gift that just keeps on giving. Once you think you've kicked the habit, it pops up in new and unexpected places. What I first thought was dry scalp and a peeling ear turned out to be oozing poison ivy. My little brother loved to refer to it as crusty dried yellow mustard. I have never felt more attractive as I did over Christmas. Andrew was great at pointing out my attractive traits: Poison Ivy/Mustard ear, the hug enormous pimple on my forehead and the one grey hair that is growing at my temple. Someone take my headshots NOW!

But I have to admit that my case of poison ivy could not compare to Patricks which is growing all over and then some. Apparently the steroid shots didn't do much but bring him into the world class baseball arena.

Where did we find the poison ivy in December? In Texas rappelling down a cliff of course! Where else!??

Resolutions

You all know my issues with grocery stores. Yesterday didn't help matters at all! I'm a pretty healthy eater usually. When I cook at home/eat at home, I do the basics and keep it simple. I usually buy the same things when I go to the store. So I gathered up the courage to brave the Jewel and stock up on some goods. Not only is this Jewel just dirty looking but it is always packed and let's face it, it's just not a wonderful experience. My irritation with this whole process was geared more towards the consumer this trip.

I was just IRRITATED at the people who decided to eat healthy for all of 5 days after their New Years resolutions were established. All of the good vegetables were taken. The fruit was ransacked. Chicken breasts that are usually plentiful...no where to be found. I had to build a contraption to reach the last box of Kashi left abandoned on the shelf.

You know what? I gave it a good effort and walked away with food that could make half of a good meal. I have salad with no protein, bread with no meat, and that's about it. But I do have cereal. Cereal is always good for any meal. It's my favorite recipe.

New Star Crush!

Okay, so maybe he's not a new star crush but he's definitely someone to think about and entertain the lonely over the holidays. Jessie, Maggie and I went to see The Family Stone last night for $5 movie night (such a bargain these days...plus free popcorn). The movie was pretty good, not great. The first half of the movie I pretty much hated everyone. No one was kind... or merciful... or normal. The one redeeming person in the movie was Luke Wilson. Therefore, I have a crush. Now I had a New Years resolution last year that I am to have no more star crushes. And I really don't have one on Luke...okay, maybe a tiny one. His character was just so likeable. Maybe in reality he wouldn't be likeable but with the mosaic of dysfunction in his family, he was a gem!

Jessie really is the one with the crush. She's stated her crush-like feelings for a while. So last night on the way home I was mentioning how he's a great guy because not only is he from Texas but also from Dallas!! Check out the film Bottle Rocket...it was filmed there (another Wilson/Anderson collaboration). You can see one of my old high school rival schools in one of the scenes (St. Marks). So I told her that I would probably run into him in Dallas and she went on and on about how cool that would be. I asked, "what if we meet and then I make out with him...how would you feel?" I am so mean! She said she would be jealous but "if someone makes out with him, it might as well be a friend." Then I mentioned my concern about the danger of his pointy jaw. That could put someone in the hospital.

Laser Update

Yesterday was the first day of the rest of my life! I ventured into American Laser Centers during my lunch break to be zapped. I have to admit that the preparation itself took longer than the zapping. I had to make sure that everything was exactly the way I wanted it before I went in. I'll spare you the details. I feel as though I've already said too much.

The process was much less painful than I had expected. It felt more like someone was flicking my skin or snapping a rubberband. But the pain went away instantly. The weird part was the gel they had to use on your skin. EWWWWWWWWWWWW! And I did feel a bit exposed to say the least. Revealing is the word I'll choose. Again, I'll spare you the details. But I did have to wear these cool sunglasses to protect my eyes. Basically I think that they make you wear the glasses to bring a little modesty to the process. This way neither of us can see what the other person is really thinking.

No ice packs were needed. I walked out of the office like nothing had happened. I just can't wait for this whole process to be OVER!

Good Question!

Because Jessie and I had hours of fun in the car driving to and from Danny's wedding, we got to know eachother better. We asked questions like the following:

1. If you fell in love with a wonderful man with the last name spelled S.C.H.I.T.Z, would you keep your own last name? We agreed that it would be a very unfortunate thing but we disagreed with what we would do.

2. If you could have any song writer write you a love song, who would you choose? Jessie chose James Taylor and I of course said Bono.

3. If you could have any song playing while you danced with a man that you just realized is the love of your life, what would it be? Tough Question! I don't think we ever came up with a solid answer.

4. What movie/literary character best represents you? I said Jo from Little Women. I think Jessie thought the same of herself.

5. If you could have acted in any movie, which would you choose? I said "Sense & Sensability." I don't remember Jessie's choice.

6. If you had to marry one of your guy friends, who would you marry? So not revealing this one! Partially because I don't remember who I said.

7. If you could act in a movie with any co-star, who would it be? I said a young Mel Gibson.

8. What actor would you have play you in a movie about your life? I don't remember the answer to this question...probably Tyra Banks. Ha!

What about you? Any thoughts?

Quick!Paddle!! Finale

Last night was the final Quick!Paddle!! show after our extension. Little did we know that there would be yet ANOTHER extension. However, this is only for one show on New Years Day and I won't be there. I'll still be in the Promised Land of Texas.

I don't know what it was about the show last night. It was just ON. We all felt it and you could tell that we were having a great time. Thax Douglas was back and he hopes to make the next show too! That would be 5 shows for him. Our suggestion was "harmonious beans" and took place in a restaurant, again. At first I played a server who was always second to Amy, another server. I should have been Prom Queen and therefore I cut myself. I wasn't so inspired by that character so I went with one a little closer to home. I played the wife of a preacher and it was so much fun. My christianese came out and I was definitely an expert on the topic. She was a fun and random character. My husband and I brought peace to the kitchen and mended relationships through prayer and baptism.

It was fun to have friends in the audience. Jessie and Jason have proved to be my greatest fans. John, Chelsey and Anne made it out too. Plus Gina and Megan from the office showed up.

Once again I'm thankful to be able to perform with such a talented cast.

Wedding #317 in Year 2005

Guess who caught the bouquet? Yours truly! Granted there was never a bouquet toss. They were too smart and kind to do something so cruel. The bride and groom, my cousin Danny and his wife Angela, were speaking with me after the reception. They realized that they had never thrown the bouquet and therefore handed it to me. That makes four bouquets and zero magic. But hey, you never know, the magic could be around the corner. For instance, New Years. I mean, I'm bound to get all dressed up and head out to a party that will be sure to meet my expectations of the greatest night of my life! Uh huh, right. Classic night of disappointment that would probably land me asleep by 11:30 p.m. Oh yes, it's happened before (Beckles, remember Barry?). But this year will hopefully be a repeat of last years dinner party that kept me laughing for hours. Wait, how did I get on the topic of New Years?

The wedding was fabulous. I took a risk and went with the curly/wavy hair look. I kind of liked it and will have to test it out again. A couple of hours into the wedding people found me on the dance floor shaking my hips to Kenny Loggins' "Footloose" and the Village Peoples' "YMCA." Unfortunately my black velvet suit turned out to be a sweat factory. Three songs in and I had to remove my velvet suit top and just sport the strapless number. I felt a little pasty and a little revealing but I went with it. I took my chances. There weren't any mishaps of the top falling down in the middle of the "Y" motion with my arms during "YMCA."

One of the shining moments of the weekend was my sisters first baby shower. It really hit me that she IS GOING TO HAVE A BABY! I so can't wait for the baby to come. That way I can finally call it a "he" or "she" instead of "it." She is going to be a fabulous mom. The shower was topped off by tears from me and my sister. Mom was too sick to come so she sent a note and a present which immediately made me and Erin cry like babies. She so knows how to do that to us!

Did I ever tell you how last week I watched "Little Women" and cried so hard (VERY LOUDLY) that I looked like I had been punched in the face? That was awesome! I needed that cry.

And finally, we saw the sites that Springfield had to offer! Sites in Springfield? Yesiree! If you ever have the chance to see the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, DO IT!!! What an incredible museum filled with so much history. Who knew that Lincoln was so hated by the country? Interesting how he is so revered now. Plus they had awesome theaters showing films of his life. That's my review!

Game Night

With Jock Jams 4000 playing in the background Game Night I commenced. For weeks we've been trying to coordinate a game night. Nobody does those anymore and they are just good old fashioned fun. Alcohol didn't even enter the picture. See folks, these aren't drinking games. These are games for the intellectual and witty. That's me. Do you want to know what other people are intellectual and witty? John, Chelsey, Fernando, Anne, Jessie, Janell and I. Jenny is normally intellectual and witty but she was also very sick. We wanted no part of that!

The night had an ambience of white Christmas lights, jolly holiday tunes and the smell of fresh baked chocolate chip cookies...and fierce competition. Now what most people don't know about me is that I can be extremely competitive. And it's not pretty. But last night I was mostly all talk because I couldn't yell at my teammates on our first game night. I'd never be invited again. So we laughed, giggled and patted eachother on the backs.

We played two different games last night: 1) Catch Phrase and 2) Apples to Apples. Normally Catch Phrase is a scene stealer but last night Apples to Apples was definitely the crowd favorite. You can talk, eat and play at the same time. Before we knew it it was almost midnight and this princess was about to turn into a pumpkin.

I'll post pictures from the night later.

FYI 2

My teeth have sweaters on them from the mounds of sugar I have consumed today.

FYI

I'm eating chocolate covered peanuts like it's popcorn. Someone rescue me. Anyone.

Laser Technology!

Praise the Lord! Those of you who have walked through many years of my open discussions on waxing can now rejoice with me! Beginning in one week I will be going through the laser hair removal process! It's been a long road of research, reservations and invasively intimate appointments. I am so excited about this that I could just give up chocolate forever (whoa! that was a strong statement. I take that back.)!

Yesterday I met with Amy at American Laser Centers and she walked me through the process. It's easy to say, I'M SOLD!!!!! I don't know one woman who wouldn't want to have this done. I mean, never having to shave or wax again! I might become addicted. Next I'll have my legs done, then my arms, then my eyebrows, then my head...wait. Slow down.

It's an expensive habit but I think it will be life-changing. I'll let you know how it goes.

Amen.

Feast

Santa has arrived at the office. The kitchen looks like it's been ravaged by mad hungry women. Why couldn't have all these goodies arrived two weeks ago when I was in the prime of my PMS'ing? At least devouring colonies of chocolate makes sense when you're about to start your period. It doesn't count. Now my raging chocoholism is purely for gluttonal reasons. It counts, and then some.

Let's see, what have I tasted today?
- chocolate chip cookie
- sugar/butter cookie
- chocolate covered plum
- chocolate covered pretzel
- chocolate covered popcorn

And the day isn't even nearly over! Someone please help me. I'm crying out for help! CAN'T YOU HEAR ME????!!!!!

I guess I'm going to have to walk through this alone. Well maybe not totally alone. There are 15 other women in this office who will happily walk with me....to the kitchen.

Winter Storm

So here it is, the picture of my neighborhood after the first winter storm of the season. Where's Katy's car? Let me know if you find it. I need to dig it out.

Singing Cab Driver

I absolutely love this city. I do! It must have something to do with the fact that every moment presents a potential adventure or curious meeting of interesting people.

Last night as Uncle Joe and I were leaving dinner there was near blizzard-like snow. As we stood on the corner in our puffy jackets looking like lost little kids, we searched for a cab amongst the crowded streets. Most taxis were already occupied and there was little hope. As if it was our destiny, a taxi pulled up behind a bus to let out a passenger and Joe and I quickly hopped in the empty cab. Our cab driver was very friendly and talkative. I noticed how he chose to wear a suit as he worked. Obviously he took pride in his work. Our driver navigated us through the slippery streets and drove us a mile in 20 minutes. We dropped off Joe at his hotel and then the taxi driver and I were off on the second leg of our adventure.

On our way to Adobo (for the most delicious Margaritas anyone has ever tasted!), he reveals to me that he is Ray St. Ray: the Singing Cab Driver. Oh yes, he really does exist! He gave me a card and everything. He offered to sing me a song and since we weren't getting anywhere fast I was happy to oblige him. He said, "What kind? I have songs about: life, love, sex, social significance, dreams and other." I optioned for love. He then said, "sappy, sad, love for the intellectual, cautious, lustful..." When I had chosen love for the cautious he immediately began the show. The show had lighting and everything! I was extremely impressed. Besides being a little quirky, he had a funny song and wonderful presentation. I would be happy to ride with him again. Unfortunately you can't just call up and request Ray St. Ray. He says that it "is a cosmically selective process who gets the Singing Cab Driver. When your kharma is due, [i'll] arrive to make your day, shamelessly promote [my] career agenda and deliver you to your destination in one piece, right side up!" After 14 years, 8 months and 8 days of driving, he sure has built up a repetoire of songs: 81 to be exact! All written by him, all unique and all sure to make you smile!

I hope that someday you too will have the joy of riding with Ray St. Ray.

Blizzard '05

Yesterday was amazing. I absolutely love snow. Maybe it's the Texas girl in me, but I'm still somehow fascinated by the accumulation of pure, white snow. So maybe it's not totally pure because we do live in the city and I definitely don't want to eat a handful anytime soon. But there's something absolutely romantic and wonderful about the city in snow. I love how the streets are quieter when it snows. People are less in a hurry and it gives a purpose to the cold.

As you can see from the pictures some poor corvette driving soul is going to have to dig his car out of the snow. Bless his heart.

I also took a picture of my neighborhood in the daylight this morning. I'll be sure to post that one soon.

Picture Worthy

You have the Reynolds girl look. Reynolds girls had the typical British beauty. The eighteenth century British portrait painters would have been attracted by your brilliant complexion and your classical features. Sir Joshua Reynolds loved to paint girls like you in white dresses with blue satin sashes. Reynolds and other portrait painters of his time also portrayed blue eyed, dark-haired girls, and golden-haired ones too, plus the occasional red-head. The following painters would have painted you; Sir Joshua Reynolds and Sir Thomas Lawrence.

Oh this is WAY fun! I was introduced to this by one of my favorite blogs: Amy Loves Books. Girls, which artist would paint you? Take this quiz on quizilla and find out. Mine was Sir Joshua Reynolds. Interesting. Better than Picasso.

Warm Fuzzies

Thank you to everyone who has been kind enough to express concern for my well being today. It's this kindness that is keeping me warm and allowing me to walk to and from building to building in the cold.

I have one question: HOW COULD IT POSSIBLY HAVE BEEN ZERO DEGREES WHEN AWOKE THIS MORNING? I'm in denial that it is actually December. This means that we still have three more months of these frigid temperatures. I heard someone mention that this was supposed to be the WORST winter we've had in a while. I chose not to believe that. I'm still holding onto the slim hope that the rest of the winter will not contain all single digit temperatures.

This morning I had to run to the gym to work out and then afterward I had to move my car from the school zone (I somehow remembered where I parked my car). Why didn't I wear my big puffy sleeping bag coat? At first it wasn't too bad, but after a block I could hardly feel my butt and thighs (even with it's extra winter padding). Let's not even talk about how I had to sit on the frozen leather seats with my already frozen toosh. I had dirt on the windshield but couldn't clean it off due to everything freezing. Speaking of freezing, I did something stupid. I know, you're shocked. I left my laundry detergent in my car and it's now this gel/paste like substance. It may take months to thaw.

The good news is that the heat is on and our apartment is toasty. Unfortunately my comfort isn't exactly translating into an affordable energy/gas bill. But I am thankful that I have a job that allows me to have a place to live... with heat.

So I say that it's so cold that my butt is freezing off. But why doesn't it really freeze off? Couldn't I have a couple of inches here and there freeze off? WAIT! I know why! Because then I wouldn't have the opportunity to work up a sweat as I'm hiking my freshly dried jeans over my thighs. See, it's God's protection. Amen.

Celebrity Look-a-Like

It's official. I look like Shania Twain. I knew I resembled greatness somewhere out there. My sister just introduced me to the greatest website! My Heritage does face recognition. Just download a picture of yourself and they will analyze your face and match you up with your celebrity look-a-like. I also resemble Doris Day, Penelope Cruz and two of my favorites: Kate Winslet and Audrey Tautou. Uh oh, I also resemble Katie Holmes. I have both Penelope and Katie on my list. Am I destined to end up with Tom Cruise and give silent births? I certainly hope not!

I also resemble Lance Armstrong and Elijah Wood. Now that's random. It seems as if I'm destined to take great painful adventures.

Erin and I definitely resemble eachother. I mean, we are sisters. She too got the Shania Twain nod.

Belly

It appears that over Thanksgiving I am either going to be giving birth to a child or I ate too much. Seeing as the first would have to be a virgin birth, it's probably the latter.

I went shopping with my sister, Erin, for maternity clothes (may I remind you that they were for HER, not me). She could not be cuter being preggers. No doubt one of her boobs weighs as much as my head. Bless her heart. After much laughter and tears (sometimes both at the same time) we finally found some great clothes that don't make her look like a ho. She was a great sport.

I'm thinking that I may want to purchase some of those maternity jeans after my Thanksgiving binge. I mean, who would really notice? Only I would really know. But then again, it may allow me to continue on this path to destruction.

One of the girls I work with works right near the kitchen and I have to pass by her office every time I enter. I'm seriously thinking of buying her a taser gun to shoot me anytime I venture into the kitchen for those "treats" that everyone keeps bringing around the holiday season. Seriously, I can hardly help myself. So I need other people to help me.

Tonight I went running. Last night I ate cookies and drank hot apple cider. I think I'm turning a corner. I'm not sure which corner exactly, but it's a corner.

Christmas Treat

Because it's snowing in Chicago and it feels like Christmas out, I am giving everyone a little treat today. Who on earth has the time to do something like this? Not me, but I'm appreciating the skill and artistry.

MASHER

So yesterday my good friend John informed me that he too loves to play the game MASH. Such joy! So through emails we played MASH (actually my favorite version: MASHER - includes an Estate and a Ranch)!

Here is my future:
Once upon a time, a young lady named Katy--from Dallas--grew up to become a very sucessful writer from her estate in Parachute, Colorado. When not sucessfully writing, Katy drives her two children around in her Toyota 4 Runner. When the pressures of Parachute get her down, she makes the short 1,000 drive north to her summer home in Missoula, Montana... where she recounts the romantic details of her wedding in Breckenridge, CO (a short 2 and a half hours east of Parachute) and her even more romantic Honeymoon in Maui (that's in Hawaii). Unfortunately for her, she was forced to marry John (of course, who doesn't want that?)... but the rest of her life is pretty sweet.
The End.

How will I ever break this to John's sweet girlfriend Miss Chelsey?

Hot Lunch

So I ventured out to Corner Bakery with my friend Erin. We are disheartened in the fact that this store is closing. I truely is our Bakery on the Corner. We've lunched there so frequently that everyone knows us by name. I mean, the tomato basil soup brings such comfort to the soul! So long dear friend.

While eating our delicious meals, we sat next to three fairly attractive looking men. This struck us as unusual there in the Corner Bakery. Not often do you see three attractive STRAIGHT young men sipping soup and eating bagels. We really didn't pay much attention until both of us heard the phrase, "yeah, she's gained like 20-30 pounds since I broke up with her." I was so aghast that I nearly spit the delicious tomato basil soup into Erin's face. I mean, did he REALLY think that it was because of him? huh? psshhh. wha? yeah riiiight! I really really really really wanted to say something in response. But then I realized that I was shoving my face with food.

Winter Tundra

CAPTAINS LOG

Starship 854. Today is our third straight day with no heat in the home. The residents are looking weak and tired. Communication went out to the Intergallactic Landlords. The response was negative. As of 1700 hours yesterday there was still no heat. The Intergallactic Landlords sent in reinforcements of three space heaters. NOT GOOD ENOUGH. These heaters give out as much heat as a candle. Tragedy also occured in that the maintenance crew erected plastic over the windows to block out additional winds caused by cracks and holes. Plastic was put over the blinds prohibiting access to the opening and closing of the blinds. NOT HAPPY. I might have to take retallitory action.

Thanksgiving

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND
Not even waiting 4 hours in an aiport to catch a flight back home to Dallas could get me down! Who cares if I was turned away TWICE as a standbye for an earlier flight? Who cares if I was just single digits away to arriving in the promise land of Texas 3 hours earlier? I was going home!

On the airplane I sat next to a kind gentlemen who I gently had to inform that I was a good 6-7 years older than him. I could see the crush building in his eyes and I wanted to spare him the agony that Thanksgiving Day. I was greeted at the airport by none other than the newlyweds and Cade, the greatest dog EVER! After filling myself up on the much missed Chic Fil'A, I saw the newlywed apartment which looks more like a home. So welcoming and beautiful. I went home to see the folks and was visited by two of my best friends, Beckles (newly engaged) and Katherine (newly married). I'm seeing a trend here. Becky and I stayed up late laughing and mourning the fact that she's getting married....that just means less slumber parties. It's so good to have friends and family that I can't wait to see when I go home!

We carried on our 27 year tradition of running the YMCA Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. For the first time in 5 years I didn't run the 8 miler. I really had high hopes that I could just crank it out. I think Becky and I happily talked eachother out of it and ran the 3 miler. I realized something that day....I'm prideful. Yes, it's true. I felt humbled that I couldn't cut the 8 miler. Yes I still had on the blue 8 miler racing number but I just couldn't do it. I have a motivation for next year. How on earth could I possibly still be passing walkers at mile 2? Too many people holding hands and walking babies to run a safe race. Do not get me started on this topic!

Then we went home and ate and ate and ate and ate! It was so gorgeous in Texas that we ate outside. Then I watched football (poor Cowboys) followed by a nap that nearly knocked me out for hours. Nothing like a turkey coma. I'm still sick from the amount of food that was eaten that day.

All in all, it was a fabulous weekend and could not have been more restful.

LOVE BIRDS
I must be PMS'ing. I sat in the back seat of the newlyweds car on the way home from a movie Thursday night. I found myself rolling my eyes and holding back loud sighs at the mushiness I was witnessing before my very eyes. There was baby talk, brushing the hair away from the other persons face, and just plain ol' lovey doveyness that just about drove me crazy!

It's not them, it's me.

MAID OF HONOR
It's official! I'm Beckles Maid of Honor! And it is definitely an honor. Last night she through a party for her own 30th birthday. She brought party favors for the 6 of us who she invited to the party. They were little boxes covered in pictures of us with her over the years. We each opened up the box and in it was a note asking us to be part of her wedding. She went on to honor us by telling us why she chose us to stand by her on her wedding day.

It's amazing how our friendship has grown over the past 6 1/2 years. She brings out the best in people and I've definitely needed her as a friend. Sadly, her engagement signals the end of MASH games.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!
Today is the big 60!!! She doesn't even look it! I just want to tell her happy birthday and let her know how much I love her. She is exactly who I want to be when I grow up.

Quick!Paddle!!

I'm in mourning. There's no way to describe how sad I am that my I.O. 5b performances are over. Quick!Paddle!! has come to its end (at least for me this week). Once again we had a great show this Sunday. Other classes mentioned after the show that our class "always puts up a solid performance." I've worked with the most talented, creative, supportive and encouraging people through the I.O. program. I feel a great loss. It's almost like high school graduation; knowing that you love these people but you'll never all be together again in the same capacity. If I had my way, our class would be chosen as a team and we'd continue performing our steadycam form together. The great part is that I think we all feel that way. Who knows!

I've added a picture of our group. We're missing a couple of people and you may notice a tall bearded man that looks like a cross between Jerry Garcia and Santa Claus. His name is Thax Douglas and he is a poet that opens for bands around Chicago. He has opened for us twice and it always brings an element of sophistication and weirdness. I love it. We are the first improv group he has ever opened up for in his life! He's never seen improv. I'm honored.

I'm also honored that my group asked me to intro the show seeing that it was my last time to perform with them and that my dad and aunt were in the audience. Let's just say that openings are not my forte. I stuttered and stumbled but somehow made it through! People were probably wondering how I could ever perform improv. You know they got that nervous cringe feeling while I was up there. Oh well. They got over it after our fine performance.

This time around, our suggestion was "greasy monkey." We began in a restaurant that turned out to be the Rainforest Cafe. We had simulated apes and guides popping out throughout the show. Hilarious. I played a small part that ended up being mostly a game. But I loved being able to be someone small but energetic at the same time. I think that only made sense to me and the other people who may have seen the show.

So I'm mourning a bit tonight.

A New Look

I'm ready for a new look. I've curled my hair for the past two days and I'm just feeling the need for a change.

I'm introducing this change in my blog too. I'm computer illiterate and needed a template that would spruce me up a little. So here you go. My new blog! Notice it's the same name, just a different address. Just like I'm the same girl, but with a different hair-do.

So I'm going to post this and give it a whirl. I want to see what this whole thing may look like.

Deep Thoughts by Katy

I've had really deep thoughts this morning. Left to contemplate the issues of life, I've discovered the following:
This looks like a woman with big boobs lying down on her side:
o3:<
Save me from myself. PLEEEEEEASE!

Oh and I also had a dream the other night that I could harmonize with everything. It was one of the most awesome dreams I've ever had. I'm almost positive that I was actually singing out loud in my sleep. Even more awesome.

Sex in the City

This morning as I finished running with my old roommate and we were visiting a friend I began to feel like something wasn't right. Remnants from my dream the night before started sneaking into my thoughts. When all of a sudden I gasped and said, "ewwwwwwwwwww." They looked at me and all I could say was, "I just remembered my dream last night!"
It's one of those dreams that scares you a little. It makes you wonder, "what if this happened in real life? What would I do?!" I dreamed that I was getting married to someone that I really didn't know. He seemed nice and was definitely a good looking person but I just wasn't attracted to this person and the thought of spending the rest of my life with him scared me to death. Of course the process for getting ready for the wedding in my dream took forever. The razor kept slipping out of my hands as I tried to shave my legs. I couldn't find my clothes and people were running around everywhere. Then I found a pair of underwear he had given me to wear for the wedding (random! and ewwwwwww). I'm sure if I liked him I would have been more keen on the sentiment. Somehow we ended up getting married and the whole dream ended with me telling my mom I wasn't going to go on the honeymoon. Being the wonderful mom that she is, she just hugged me and told me, "I thought so."
SCARY! The thought of that happening in real life is just a little too much. Note to self: Be careful with who you date! And what possibly could have prompted this dream? An episode of Sex in the City at 10:00 last night. You know the one where Charlotte marries Trey even though she has major reservations? Yep, that's the one. Second note to self: No more Sex in the City before I go to sleep.

Weddings, Bouquet Tosses and More

Sorry I have been away and absent from updating my life stories. I have been a professional wedding attendant recently. A couple of weeks ago I read at my older brothers wedding. It was an amazing weekend and Patrick and Alicia were so happy and in love. I saw people who I hadn't seen in 10 or more years. What fun surprises! And yes, I was also the hot sister thanks to my dazzling and expensive dress. It did the trick and was well worth the cash.
Then last week I was in Little Rock Arkansas for my friend Katherine's wedding. Once again, I saw people I had not seen in almost a decade. It's wild to see old friends married with their kids running around. The marrieds and the few of us singletons sat around talking. We all agreed that sometimes, many times, the grass appears greener on the other side. The singletons want nothing more than to be married and the marrieds are jealous of the freedom that the singletons have in their lives. I walked away from that weekend happy for my friends and content in my life. I think that's a huge blessing. I also got to spend much of the weekend with my friend, Hannah, who lives in Summit County, CO. She's a rockstar. She is a ski patrol by winter, river guide by summer and apparently treks India in the fall. She'll put any of us so-called athletes to shame. She's also an amazing singer and guitarist. A Renaissance woman...if you will.
After my tour of weddings completed, I got news of my best friends engagement! Lucky me was in on the surprise. Her fiance, Russell, allowed me to see the ring before mailing it to him in Texas. GORGEOUS! It was an honor to play a part in the whole thing. I would be so lucky to have a guy and...of course a ring like she has! So it looks like the tour of weddings will begin again in the spring. But I don't mind. Who doesn't like to celebrate? She better make sure I look hot in that bridesmaides dress. And please no throwing of the bouquet. Thank you Kat and Patrick and Alicia for opting out of that tradition left best to kids just out of college. I don't like being the only 29 year old on the floor with 13 year old cousins. Seriously, why do people insist on dragging you out there and making a show of you being in your late 20's and still single? NOT FUN nor FUNNY! Soap box over.
I had my two shows for IO and Level 4 at Second City Sunday. I have to say that I was really pleased with the Second City show. We had 20 minutes to plan right before the show taken from suggestions made in class. It was wild and intense coming up with an improv set that included 5 scenes and 4 blackouts. There were quite a few laughs and definitely some scenes that needed to be nixed. But it was a first time performance of the improv set and I was proud of my class.
My IO show continued in it's weirdness yet I still liked it. This time I played a twin with Kristen and we talked at the same time. It got old for me after a while. Oh well.
I do have such a talented IO class. I wish we could all stick together and perform as a team. Not only are they talented, but they are wonderful people. Nothing but love gushing after the shows. It's a nice change from what my Second City class can sometimes be like. But from what I hear, that's normal. Tension in a class of debutantes is nothing new.
Whew! That's quite the update. I think I may be the only one who read through the whole thing.

Single HOT Sister

What is the deal? WHAT IS THE DEAL???????!!!!!!! I have an issue. And that issue is the fact that I cannot remember where I park lately. It's just better that I don't drive. Why you may ask? Well, because I keep getting parking tickets! Why can I not remember that I parked in the school zone? It's not like it's a measley $25 ticket. NO! It's 50 smackers each time I forget to move my car by 7:00 AM. So not only have I done that once in the last two weeks, but TWICE! Count 'em, one, TWO! I guess the work bonus I just received will go straight to parking tickets. And maybe a purchase at Anthropologie (I spelled it right this time John). Or maybe a gold pair of shoes to go with my new dress.
Why did I buy a new dress? I didn't buy one just because I like to spend money on myself. I didn't buy it because I needed one more thing to put in my closet (which broke by the way....I think that says something). My older brother is getting married!!!! Patti-O is finally tying the knot! This my friends, I could not be more excited to celebrate. One week from tomorrow I will be watching my older bro make his vows to the lovely Alicia (who could not make a better sister-in-law!). Naturally with the older brother getting married and the younger sister having a baby, I have to look my hottest. I say this because I have to! I am the single sister. Do you understand what this means? All eyes will be on me (I'm so narcissistic) and wondering, "when is she getting married?" So you can see that I need to be the single HOT sister at the wedding! There, I've said my piece.
Well, maybe I should be the joyful sister who loves her family and is loving her life! That might be a bit more like me than the single hot sister. That's just a little too trampy sounding for me. Besides, all my brothers friends are married. Well, there is one...but as always, I am Patrick's younger sister! FOREVER!

Sing Some on the Side

This weekend was completely exhausting. It was exhausting, exhiliarating and exhausting once again. I felt great accomplishment after pulling off an event with the help of wonderful volunteers that hosted almost 10,000 people (according to the news). I love the feeling of sweet success and the peace that comes after it. Now I need a massage.
My exhaustion clearly played a role in a recent audition I had Monday night. It wasn't for anything super special but it was an audition and I always like to succeed. I should have known that things wouldn't go as smoothly as one would hop when I couldn't finish my own sentences. Words escaped my brain and I obviously wasn't thinking clearly. But hey, I went for it. Right?
Twelve of us were funneled into a tiny room and stood before 10 writers and directors. One by one we had to go before them, introduce ourselves and perform a given task while speaking about our careers. Okay, not too tough. Nothing I haven't done before in an improv class. But you must know one thing about me, sometimes I have a difficult time talking and performing an action. So you can see where I'm going with this. I was the last one to perform. I was given the frantic event of having just burned a lasagna in the oven (how they know me so well...one would think it should be second nature). Well, I was so frazzled that I wasn't thinking and just started speaking. I don't even know what I said! But I do remember the last thing that came out of my mouth. I had begun a sentence and didn't know how to finish it. It went something like this (picture me waving an improv towel in the air to break up the improv smoke...yes it looked as ridiculous as it sounds), "And then I also......ummm....ummm...(brain fart)...sing some on the side." WHAT!????? ME? SING ON THE SIDE???? Blatant lie! Bad girl, bad girl! Well, maybe if you count singing happy birthday to a friend an hour before hand. Not only did I lie but I got caught. Not 30 seconds later did they ask us to sing two songs....TWO!!!!
So now the running joke is that I also "sing some on the side." Sing in my shower and car maybe. Or when my roommates and I bust out with an 80's love ballad.
I am so shocked that I didn't receive a call asking me to be part of the show. SHOCKED!!!! Well, you can't have everything can you?

U2

OH MY GOSH!!!! Miracle of miracles and God has blessed me greatly...yet again. I WENT TO A U2 CONCERT WEDNESDAY!!!!! My favorite band of all time...that's no secret if you've read my profile. As of Wednesday morning I was a lost little girl who had no idea what events would be unfolding before her in the following hours. A friend of a friend of a friend of a friend of a friend sent out an email that she had 4 tickets to U2 but last minute couldn't go. So you know what? I crossed my fingers and sent out an email saying I would buy two of the tickets. I knew I could talk someone into going with me. I mean, it's U2!
You know what? It was worth every penny I spent. I would be happy to spend an arm and a leg on a U2 concert. How often does one get to go? Well twice. I attended the POP tour in 1998 just after college. This one was much better and much more intimate of a setting. Do I feel guilty that people are suffering and are homeless due to Hurricane Katrina and I spent $$ on a U2 concert? Yes! But I'm planning on giving more now. So everyone wins!
Picture this: you're sitting in the lower part of the second level directly behind the stage. Bono is only a stones throw away. The stage is circular so you get to see the entire concert from the view point of the band. Occasionally Bono will turn around and star directly up at you and sing "All I Want is You." Damn straight! A-MAZING! Let's just say that I had chills from the moment the concert began to the very end. I did not want it to end. I mean THREE ENCORES!!! THREE!!!! It couldn't get any better.
Well, maybe it could have been better. One lucky lady in the front row of the pit (so need to get those tickets next time) was pointed at by Bono and then was asked by him to join her on stage. She got to dance with Bono!!! (I love Bono but let's face it, the Edge is my favorite). I was filled with mixed emotions. One: Lucky girl that she gets to dirty dance with Bono and run her fingers through her hair in front of thousands of people. Two: What the heck would I have done if it was me? I had visions of myself doing something more like the white man's overbite and giggling nervously.
I've noticed something about Bono....if he wasn't a musician he would definitely be an interpretive dancer or into modern dance or poetry readings. It reminds me of an improv group I was in for a short time...couldn't handle the resemblance it had to interpretive/tribal dancing.
Are you jealous? Really? No...no, please don't be jealo...okay, you can be slightly jealous.

Big "A"

How is my day going? Funny you should ask. Let me just start by saying that my pants ripped. Ugh! Why does this always happen to me?!!!! I am wearing my cute new work pants that happen to fit me unlike the baggy ones I've been sporting since my Green Monster days. These are cute new ones from Anthropologie. They have a button flap front. Very nautical....or page boy...whichever you prefer. They look fabulous and you're feeling WAY cute. And then you sit down on the el and the pockets poke out to reveal that the pants are slightly pulling around the glutes area. Then you're feeling only semi-cute. You're walking around the office making copies, faxing things and finishing up an important mailing...only then do you realize after half of Chicago has seen you...your pants ripped....AGAIN! Seriously! It's just slightly at the hip. I'm only revealing an inkling of skin. Yet it's so unattractive. It says, "yes I did have ice cream 3 nights in a row this weekend!"
So at lunch (yes I continued to eat even after this incident), two co-workers and I walked through Nordstrom and one of them (who is tall) points out that it's unfair for there to be a petite section and not one for tall girls (oh, I'm so sorry you're so tall and skinny!). So I said, "It's unfair for there to be sections for long and lean women and not one for women with a BIG "A"!!!!!!

Peacemaking

I, Katy, have done what I thought would be impossible. I have brought together a Democrat and Republican in sweet harmony. Pat. On. The. Back. I always knew I was a peacemaker. Ever since I was little I've been unable to withstand conflict and tension. It eats at me and causes me to crawl into the deep recesses of my soul. Perhaps that's why I could never be a politician...nor would I want to be a politician. Just watch me marry a man who will enter into politics and be a great leader. The next thing you know his presidential hopes are shot because someone read this blog and saw that I didn't want to be a part of politics. Do I give myself too much credit? Perhaps so.
So maybe I was more of an instigator in this dramatic saga instead of a peacemaker. I faithfully read my friend, John's blog. He's one of the bestest (love that word) people out there. Here is the web address. Someday I'll figure out how to make a link...but I'm not so hot with technology...though I do know how to work an ipod (though not to its fullest potential). I digress. Save it on your favorites. I do. John gave a heartfelt, passionate and somewhat (to say the least) emotional opinion of the Gulf Coast tragedy. Of course being the conservative that I am and knowing how my best friend would feel about this blog emailed Becky and said, "Do you want to read something that will make you mad?" and attached the link. Little did I know that Beckles would make a comment....a very very long and passionate response. Please go read it so you can enjoy the tension.
I must say that John's public response to Becky's comment impressed me greatly. Kudos to you John! The next thing you know, Becky emails John to apologize and then John emails Becky. There were lots of "you made a good point" and "you're probably right about that" and it was just a huge love fest. A freakin' love fest between Democrats and Republicans. Y'all! There is hope for the world! It truly can happen! Let's drop the extreme's of everything and begin to look at people as individuals. Fear drives people to say and do crazy things (aka. politicians). Fear can bring out the best and the ugliest in everyone. Too often we see the ugly and the media is only too quick and happy to share those stories. What the heck did Barbara Bush say? Mercy! Blah, whatever.
So let's lift up our glasses and give three cheers for hope and peace!

Hurricane Katrina

The news and reality of Hurricane Katrina is more devastating than any of us can imagine. A good friend of mine's husband went down there to help with the rescue/relief effort. He said it was a living hell and that it's worse than it appears on television. But he also mentioned how amazing it is to see so many people pulling together and helping.
There's so much finger pointing and blaming going on that it makes me sick. How can we focus on that when there's so many people who need help at the moment? Let's get these people help and then we can disect the federal and local governments.
I'm going to choose to focus on the more positive stories. Going home to Texas this weekend I was blown away by all the Lousiana, Mississippi and Alabama license plates. People are relocating to Texas and other nearby states. Reunion Arena in Dallas has become a shelter for evacuees. Many of my friends were able to go through their churches to help feed, cloth and comfort those devastated by the Hurricane. They heard many stories of miracles, of tragedies and of hope. Those are stories that you have yet to hear on the news. I know people who are housing strangers in their homes because those people have no where else to go. There are stories of apartment complexes who are offering free shelter to families who have lost everything. Corporations and individuals are matching donations given to those who are in need. Yes, it is so tragic, it's devastating. BUT, there are so many people who are out there helping physically, financially, emotionally, etc. These are stories you won't hear about for a while.
Until then my heart, my prayers and my money are being sent for those who have been ravaged by the storm. There is a long road ahead. My prayer is that they are not forgotten once the news stories have stopped or a war between republicans and democrats insues.

Home Sweet Home

I will be walking through my parents home door in almost 31 hours!!!!! I have kept a countdown each hour for that moment for about 3 days now. Can you tell how excited I am to go home? It's been 5.5 months since I've seen the Texas terrain. Sadly my accent is gone and no one notices anything different about me except my over-usage of the word, "y'all." Notice I put in that .5 because I am somehow amazed by the fact that I've been away from home that long and yes, those two weeks do make a difference. Would I dare leave out the fact that I ran 5.5 miles instead of just 5? Heck no! I like to show my accomplishments or brag about my woes.
Things I want to do while I'm home:
1) Hug my family.
2) Throw the ball for the dogs.
3) Get a sunburn.
4) Lay by the pool and read a book while my sweat drops onto the pages and stains them.
5) Have a cookout (which is happening).
6) Shop in a mall.
7) Finish reading "Wicked"
8) See my sister's pregnant belly and new house.
9) See my future sister-in-law's bling bling on her left ring finger.
10) Laugh myself to tears with my best friend.
11) Get a pedicure/manicure.
12) See a movie in a cold theater after sweating from the car to the theater's door.
13) Run into a friend I haven't seen in FOREVER!
14) Learn to play the piano.
15) Go Skydiving.
16) Cure Cancer.
17) Meet Bono.
18) Get my haircut.
19) Take a nap while it's raining outside.
20) Be satisfied with my trip!

Chris & Eugene

I'm such a giddy girl at the moment. Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy are teaming up once again to create pure brilliance! "For Your Consideration" is bound to be the next cult classic. My friend just sent me this article about the movie and I am wishing that I could be in this movie! Does anyone out there know how to get to Christopher Guest or Eugene Levy or any of their peeps? Huh? Help me please! This is a major dream of mine! A movie that is slightly scripted but allows room for improv and character development = bliss! I'm a slightly talented actress who makes up for any lack of acting skill with good people skills. You know how there are only six degrees of separation? This blog could be only six degrees away from the eyes of Eugene Levy or Christopher Guest. Now I'm sounding stalkerish. Perhaps you could edit this article before it's placed before their eyes. Perhaps I should attach my long resume also known as "my body of work." They may be tempted to hire me merely because of things like "Dixie Hicks," "Mockupations," "Sable." or not hire me because of things like "Dixie Hicks," "Mockupations," "Sable." Whatever, I just would LOVE this opportuntiy. I'd quit my job and move in a heartbeat.
I'm thinking this could happen. If I prayed and God saw fit to make it happen, it could and would.
So join with me in prayer.

Stale Bagel

Today at work we cleaned out a storage unit to take inventory of supplies. Someone found a bagel with cream cheese that was left in a box FROM A YEAR AGO!!! That's nasty. She was inquisitive enough and brave enough to actually look at it. I was fighting gag reflexes.

Vegas Baby!

I must be the only person who has ever been to Vegas, not gambled and went to bed two nights in a row at 10:30 pm.
VEGAS BABY!!!! I'm probably also the only person who has ever been to Vegas with her dad.

Mayor Daley

Today on the way to a work event, we passed Mayor Daley on 290 driving to see the President sign the transportation bill. I must say that I was pretty excited. I knew something was up when we passed a navy blue Ford car and the driver had one of those clear spiral earpieces in his ear. The next car up we see Mayor Daley slouched in the back seat having a deep conversation with one of his advisors (or who I assume to be an advisor).
So you know what I did? I totally pulled a Footloose. I rolled down the window (I was in the front passenger seat) and began waving my arms at Mayor Daley. Then he rolled down his window. The next thing I knew I had my right leg out the window and aimed it towards his car window. Traffic was moving at a slow but steady pace. At one point I had a leg in each window and was doing the splits while in my Britney Spears (baby baby) school girl outfit. My friend yelled out, "Ariel, don't!" and pulled me into the car just before a semi-truck hit me. Mayor Daley waved goodbye with a disappointed look on his face. You could tell he wanted me to jump into his car to talk about politics. I'm sure he couldn't wait to hear my opinions and advice about recycling, street cleaning and those damn parking tickets that haunt me.

Bleep

What makes a cuss word? And who the heck decided that these words would be words that had conotations less than desirable? So now I'm restricted from using these words freely. Okay, so many people could care less that these words are "restricted." But lets face it, it's me, Katy, I care.
I've also had issues with the whole middle finger thing. One person decided that sticking up your middle finger was something bad so now I'm not allowed to use my middle finger as I please. Personally I'm happy to use it as a pointer. It makes sense. It's the longest of the digits on my hands (which happen to be very small....yes I have small hands). I think the middle finger should be liberated.
Laura and I were discussing the whole cuss word thing as we walked around the block trying to quiet a friends baby. What if the word kitchen were a cuss word? I hear by declare the word Kitchen a cuss word! I'm not that keen on cooking, so it doesn't bother me. What if I decided that the name, Michael, was a bad word? See, it's all really subjective. Perhaps I didn't like a girl named Shania in high school, so I declared her name a bad word.
Now I do know the origins of some of these so called "bad words." It's just all really weird if you think about it for too long. I guess it's been one of those days.

Hot Box

The CTA is not on my good side this very day. The el was like one big Hot Box this morning. Why on earth was the air conditioning not working? It was nothing but stillness and hotness overwhelming us poor passengers. I could almost feel the germ filled air entering my lungs. A little circulation would have been nice.

Middle Child

Great news has descended upon my family this past week. My little sister is having a baby! Such incredible news. She was shocked, as was her husband, that she could get pregnant after being off birth control for only two weeks. Note to self....
The fun news is that the baby is due 3 days after my birthday. My niece/nephew and I could actually share the same birthday. Lucky kid. I mean to be able to share a birthday with someone as great as me! And Liza Minelli.....oh dear.
But my best friend, Becky, just informed me that my 30th birthday could be overshadowed by this blessed event. If you know me, you know that I don't like having my birthday overshadowed! Picture this, just as my cake is being brought to me with 30 flaming candles, Erin's water breaks. Now, there is a very very sad pattern in my life of momentous occasions or moments of vulnerability that are disrupted by outside forces. Knowing me, this would totally happen. But I'm not going to let this happen! If Erin's water breaks, I'll not let anyone notice it. I will hold the court! "Katy, the baby is crowning!" "I don't care! As I was saying, I am blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful friends and fam..." (noise of baby crying). "What's that?" "Oh, it's nothing...yes, 30 wonderful years I've been on this earth..." It would be totally classic if the baby was born before or during my 30th birthday celebration. So I'm in a quandry of what to do. I LOVE big birthday bashes and I will have one by golly...even if I have to throw it myself. You think my future niece/nephew could have the courtesy to be born at a convenient time. It could be it's first present to me.
Yes, big news has surrounded my family this year. Older brother getting married, little sister having her first child...the first grandchild in the family, little brother switching highschools (big deal b/c we all graduated from the same school). So what is the middle child to do? I need to have a little action is this game. What can I possibly do to get some attention? Becky recommended posing for "Playboy." That would surely get me some attention in my family.
I am such the typical middle child. When did this happen?

Home Alone

There's something I realized about myself last night. Or maybe it would be more fair if I said, I re-recognized about myself. I feel so lazy and get antsy if I am sitting still for more than an hour. Last night I had to force myself to stay home. I could have gone to class but it was raining outside. It was the perfect setting to a night home alone cuddled under a blanket and watching a good movie. Well after an hour of that, I felt guilty and like I should be doing something. I ignored the call of the dishes in the sink and the soap scum building in the tub (not really). I literally had to force myself to sit there. I ignored the phone because that only leads to "you're doing nothing too? Well, let's hang out." And before I know it it's midnight and I'm just brushing my teeth before bed.
So now that I'm rejuvenated from a night in, I need a nap from a carbo-loaded lunch. I think nap time should be mandatory. I just need a quick 10 minute nap. That's all it would take.
Today is the most gorgeous day Chicago has seen in a couple of months. The torrential rains last night brought blue skies, low humidity and cheery spirits. I wish I could go read a book in the park today. I would even go running...I've been bad the past couple of weeks. Days like this make me love this city.
My little brother is coming into town tomorrow. This is the first time that he has come up here since before I moved to Chicago. I think we will have a great time. There are plenty of things to entertain a 14 year old (who looks older than me because he's 6'1"). I'm sure he'll want to leave home and come live with me because we'll have such a great time! He says he has a present for me. I love surpises.
I love GOOD surprises...let me clarify that one.

Despise

I DESPISE going to the grocery store. I've never liked it. I think it's because I become overwhelmed with the crowds of people and the many selections. I've never been great at making decisions (as I've mentioned before). So the grocery store is one big fat nightmare for me. Not only that but it's the juxtaposition of easy cooking with trying to eat healthy. Is there a happy medium. Plus I have a schedule that causes me to only want to eat cereal at night because I'm too tired to fix anything else. Some may call that laziness, I call it simplicity! But I did in fact visit Trader Joe's last night. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But it still overwhelmed me and then as I lugged 5 heavy bags of food up 2 flights of stairs I realized another reason I hate the store....BRINGING IT HOME!!!!! I miss having a garage the opened directly into the kitchen. Once again, simplicity.
I also had an overwhelming urge for Wendy's last night. When's the last time I ate Wendy's? I don't know! My roommate and I ate fast food in a car. I don't remember when I did that last. It made me feel like a collegiate all over again. You know what fast food chains I miss that Chicago does not offer? SONIC AND CHIC FIL'A. Seriously, what's wrong with this city? A Cherry Limeaide would be perfect for the summer heat!
Bad move #1 yesterday: Wearing white work pants that can only be dry cleaned when it's raining outside. I get annoyed at the spots that the shoes kick up on the back of the pants.
Bad move #2: Trying to drive to Target while Cubs game traffic was entering the city. Cubs fans are terrible drivers; especially in the rain.
Bad move #3: Eating Ben and Jerry's at 9pm last night. Why do I do that to myself?
Bad move #4: Turning off my alarm this morning instead of exercising. That's not simplicity, that's laziness.
Good times. All in all, life is swell.

Catching Up

I've become one of those annoying bloggers who never writes in her blog. It irritates me when I go to some of my favorite blogs during a desperate need to be entertained and it's old news! I am exactly that person. I'm sure no one visits my site anymore because they'll just see the same old thing for weeks on end. And for that, I apologize. Maybe I should set a goal of writing more frequently. It's the least I can do for my 6 friends who read this blog.
I've noticed something interesting lately. Ever since the bombings of the tube and the bus in London, the red line has been sparce. I have honestly had a seat everytime I've ridden the el to work and home again. I don't know if it is because it's been so hellaciously hot outside or because people are frightened that Chicago might be next.
I have to admit that if I were to think about it too much it would be frightening. There is a slight peace from the fact that each time I'm on the train there are police officers and dogs sniffing out the train. It produces perhaps a false sense of safety, but I'll take it over paranoia that's unfounded.
My roommate gets married this weekend. I guess she's not my roommate anymore. Boo hoo. She's already moved out of her room and my other roommate moved in her room with just seconds to spare. The abandoned room was much larger than Janell's old room. I can't blame her. I would have done the same thing. My cousin moves in soon and should be a delightful addition.
So we were without a couch for a good 4 weeks or so. It's amazing how much less t.v. I watched (not that I've watched much lately anyway). There's no central area for congregating and it makes having the opposite sex over a little awkward. "Hi, we don't have a couch....and I'm not particularly keen on sitting on my bed and socializing." I'll be thankful when my new "adult" purchases arrive....meaning NEW COUCHES!!!!! I'm such an adult these days. I even bought a new set of dishes. I'm slowly working my way out of having to register when I get married. That way people can just give me money. I mean give US...whoever he may be...money.
I ate too much pizza today. Goodbye skinny ass self. Hello sweatpants! I need to get a grip. It's got to be hormonal. I have a zit on my chin.

Nothing

I have absolutely nothing to say. Do you wonder why it's been so long since I've written in my blog? Because I have nothing to say. Perhaps this means that I've been experiencing a great lack of adventure/excitement in my life recently. That's because my life has been filled with work, exercise, work, improv, improv, work and finally sleep. I sound grumpy. I'm not. I'm just uninspired at the moment.
I'm hoping that this flyfishing trip I'm taking this next week will bring new stories and adventures. Yes, yes, you heard it right. I'm going flyfishing. I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing but I'm sure it will be fun. Plus I get to spend 3 days on a boat with my dad, brother and his new fiancee (who is really cool). Until today I was the only girl going. So this is a blessing!
I've prepared for this trip today by getting my eyebrows waxed and nether regions waxed as well. It's all rather exciting. It wouldn't be a blog by me if I didn't mention waxing. Apparently it runs my life. I also got a pedicure yesterday. It was a rather expensive pedicure but it had been so long since I'd had my toes worked on that I didn't care. She was sloughing off so much dead cracked skin from my heels that it was flying everywhere. I honestly was pretty disgusted. But that just showed my incredible need for a pedicure. Now when I arrive in Montana, all the fishermen will be in awe of my perfectly pedicured feet and my precisely manicured eyebrows. Or they will laugh at me and wonder what the heck I'm doing in Montana flyfishing. It's probably the latter. But hey, I'm going to give it a shot.
For having nothing to say really I sure did use up a lot of words.

Now I See

This morning brought revelation and understanding in my life. I have been quite exhausted this week. I thought this was all due to helping take care of my roommate who had emergency surgery on Saturday. I thought this exhaustion led to a severe need to cry (plus I haven't cried in months) and irritability. Tuesday I forced myself to cry. I laid on my bed and put on the two saddest songs I could find and just cried for 10 minutes. I felt so much better. I just didn't want to be around people and found myself thinking such negative thoughts. Most unlike me! Then my appetite came back with a vengeance and it was unstoppable.
So this morning as I woke up and did my usual visit to the bathroom, I suddenly discovered that I was not crazy but instead just PMS-ing. You have no idea what a relief it is to discover that fact. I overheard a friend saying Monday night that there is actually a hormone in our body that makes us forget about our menstrual symptoms. Now isn't that a unique but helpful insight?

Katy's Secret

It's official. It's been measured (right there in the store). I am no longer a 36C. I'm a 34B. Tragic weightloss consequence. I might as well wear a training bra.

Appetite

OH LORD HELP ME!!!!! Not only is my appetite back in full swing, but it's turned into a monster. I want to eat everything in site. And even if it's not in site, I want it. From where did these cravings appear? Seriously, I thought the Lord had answered my prayers and finally turned away my obsession with food. It looks like the obsession has only grown stronger with its absense. I need another miracle!
To make matters worse, our organization won a big award this past weekend so people keep showering our office with flowers and.....chocolate of all things! We work for a diabetes research organization. We don't need chocolate here. We need fruit. Where are the fruit baskets? I need help to save me from myself! Doesn't one kind soul understand that an office of women needs something other than an entire huge basket piled with chocolate delicacies. Chocolate heaven. Mount chocula? Or wait, maybe the person knows women all too well. But I need someone to tie me to my chair so I don't run in the kitchen one more time to take a nibble of that chocolate goodness. Decadence people. That's what it is and I can't resist.
Our office looks like a florist shop. It's beginning to smell like a hamster cage though. Have you ever noticed that? Too many flowers thrown together in an air tight place and things begin to stink. It reminds me of rush my first semester of college. After bid day, the dorm smelled of hamster cage. Perhaps it smelled a bit of urine too. And it was from the gorgeous flowers! Perhaps the smell of the flowers will make me so nauseated that I won't want the chocolate anymore. Please Lord?!!!!!