Weekly Wrap-Up

It's been a hell of a week here in Jersey Girl land. 12 more inches of snow & office deciding that a foot of snow was no reason to close the office. I had prayed that the Governor would take the decision out of these thoughtless people's hands and declare a state of emergency, but, no. The end of month is a critical time for us and may have played into their decision. But we had assumed the office would be closed on Friday and I was prepared with everything I would need to work from home. We learned at 6:30AM Friday that the office would be open and my boss went in. Not only did I not go in, but none of my staff showed up either. The boss was not happy. I really don't care what he thinks. No job is worth endangering yourself.

We also met our new CEO this past week. He spoke for about 30 minutes to our group and shared a bit about how he works and what he expects. He likes things done fast. He actually said it was better to be fast than accurate because you can always go back and fix your mistakes later. Huh? The next time my boss points out a mistake I've made, I now can say "Yeah, but I screwed it up quick, didn't I?" This guy was previously CEO of a large, multi-national company who was fired in December for poor performance. Not one of my friends who was laid off from my company in August has gotten a new job. And, yet, he managed to get himself another 7 figure job in less than 2 months. What is wrong with this picture?

The LSH had knee surgery a few weeks back and has been getting PT 3 times a week. He was scheduled to return to work tomorrow; however, during PT on Thursday, he was doing lunges when there was a pop. Now he's out for at least 3 more weeks and the doctor is not ruling out more surgery. He's been out longer with this quicky knee repair than I was last year after major surgery. I swear, he's slipping the doc a little $$ to keep him out of work. Can you tell I'm a bit envious?

You Can Breathe Again

I know you've all been waiting with bated breath. (BTW, what IS bated breath? Did I even spell it right?) I decided on this tote bag (for starters). Very traditional. You might even say "classic." (Is this starting to sound like a J. Peterman ad?) I even stepped up and got it monogrammed.

Of course, while I was there, I picked up this little cutie (small, in the navy blue and kelly green combo, also monogrammed).

THEN, I went over to E-Bags and picked up this FABULOUS little something to schlep my sustenance to work. No more brown baggin' for me, baby.

God, I'm going to be so organized and put-together, I hope they still recognize me at work.

I have a hang-up about my age. A few months ago, I admitted my age on this blog (and, no, I'm not going to link to it; if you're THAT interested, do the work and find it yourself). I just have a hard-time believing that I'm THIS age. But, no matter how much I try not to think about it, once in awhile, there are days when there is no avoiding it. Yesterday was one of those days.

At the request of my doctor, I was visited by an employee of a home healthcare company to be set up with one of these. My doctor recommended a sleep study which might shed some light on as to why I'm so tired. The study showed that I stop breathing for significant amounts of time during the night, which prevents me from getting to that REM stage where we get our most restful sleep. Also it puts me at a higher risk for strokes or heart attacks.

BUT....isn't this supposed to be for fat, old men who snore loud enough to wake the neighbors? Of course, the nice man who brought me this contraption tried to re-assure me that people of any age can suffer from sleep apnea and that he has patients in their 20's. Sorry, that still didn't make me feel any better.

I fought this for over a year, but my doc said she wouldn't take my complaints of tiredness seriously until I tried this machine. Then she let me read the report that stated how often I stop breathing and, ok, it scared me enough to give in.

I made a half-hearted attempt to use it last night, but got so frustrated with it, I gave up. But, would you believe that there's a data card in the machine that actually records how often I use it, which the insurance company will ask for every few months to confirm that I'm being a good girl and doing what I'm told.

I guess I should be looking at the bright side and be grateful that they have these machines available nowadays. But can you just picture how sexy I look and feel with this mask?? But, hey, somebody must have thought Darth Vader was sexy, right? RIGHT?

I Need To Decide To Make A Decision

I do a lot of shopping online and I'm pretty good finding great deals, if I do say so myself. Friends sometimes ask me to see if I can find them some deal or promo code for specific things and I'd say I'm successful 90% of the time.

Currently my search is for something pretty simple, a tote bag. Not a purse, but more of a shopping tote. Not to really use for shopping, but more to tote things to work. I'm not havng a hard time finding them online, but I'm having a hard time choosing one. I can only compare it to when you're dating and you meet this great guy or gal who seems perfect for you, your family and friends love them and yet, you're reluctant to commit, just in case there's someone "better" out there. For some reason, I can't commit to one tote bag. I keep thinking that as soon as I buy one, I'll see another I like better.

It's ridiculous, when I think about it. I mean, it's not a big-ticket item. If I get one and then see another I like, I could certainly buy another. The other night I got as far as entering my credit card info on one site, but I just couldn't hit the "buy" button.

I mean, anything has got to be an improvement over the green Stop & Shop reusable bag that I'm currently toting to work.

I think I need counseling.

Is This One Of Those "Why Didn't I Think Of That" Moments?

One question?

Why bacon???

http://www.jdfoods.net/products/mmmvelopes.php

Why CAN'T You Kill Them? Office Edition

THE SET-UP: Last August, my company underwent a "reorganization" and for one horrible week, each day, people lost their jobs. Of course, the responsibilities of those laid off were divvied up among those remaining. Except for me. I was handed all the responsibilities AND the staff of one of the eliminated positions, while maintaining all the responsibilities of my current position. And, of course, management expected that none of these balls would be dropped. Well, I don't think I had "juggling" mentioned as one of my talents on my resume. The reason upper management had these unrealistic expectations is because they have no idea what we do. FACT: I have worked for this company in the same department for over 6 years. I'm on the third floor; the VP of my division (and the person who made these decisions) has his office on the second. I am not lying when I say that I have never met him. I may have ridden the elevator with him, but who knows.

THE STORY: We normally are reviewed and receive raises each July, but, like most companies, not last year. So, recently, in a show of good faith, we were told we would be receiving a small raise and, if business improves, another in July. A few weeks ago, the director of my department and the person I directly report to, called me in to his office to officially tell me of my raise, apologizng that it couldn't be more. I said I understood, but I was hoping that, when the company gets back on track, that my position would be looked at again and I would be compensated appropriately for basically, taking on two full-time positions. His response:

"Back. before the lay-offs, during meetings deciding the re-structuring, the general consensus was that the supervisory position that I "inherited", was never really needed. That my position and this other supervisory position, should have been combined." Did you get that? The full-time supervisor position that they paid someone for over 7 years a supervisors' salary, bonuses AND benefits, was never necessary. How convenient to come to that realization, now that you dropped the whole kit and kaboodle in my lap. But wait! That's not what happened. When I mentioned this, his reply was "Oh, this wasn't decided at the time of the re-organization. It was the opinion of management for a few years." What? They decided this years ago, but continued to keep paying someone to do a job that they decided was not necessary? I said something to the effect that no wonder we're in financial trouble. I think he then realized how his explanation sounded and tried to backpedal a little. But, he was having a difficult time making any sense. It sounded familiar to me. In fact, he actually sounded a lot like this:

I let him know that "sorry, you haven't convinced me." And that there was a certain MLB team that he would fit right in with.

Men, You Can't Live With Them. Why CAN'T You Kill Them?

Before I begin my rant, I have to finally admit to myself that, at least for the time being, I'm going to be mostly a weekend blogger. My job is draining every last ounce of energy from me that, during the week, it's just getting harder to find time to blog. I had to remind myself that I started this blog mainly for myself (although I'm very happy some of you have come along for the ride), and it's not supposed to be something I HAVE to do, but something I want to do. So, I hope you won't forget about me and still stop by now and then. I may drop a post or two during the week, if I'm motivated enough and I'll definitely be still checking out your spots.

Anyway, on to today's story. My husband, the LSH, had knee surgery on Monday. He's doing very well, thanks. Although he had the surgery Monday, he's actually been out of work on disability for a month. His being home has allowed what is probably my biggest peeve about him, rise back up to the surface. He will NOT do anything that would be considered housework, unless I TELL him. This has been going on since we first moved in together many moons ago. And, when he DOES some chore that I requested him to do and I don't mention it, he'll say "Did you see I vacuumed?" Uh, yes. Did you see when I vacuumed the 500 times previously? And he has since learned NOT to say "I did the laundry for YOU." When he would say that, my response was "Oh, you only washed MY clothes?" He got that point pretty quick.

When I'm really annoyed about this, I'll say "Can't you see the dog's biscuit crumbs all over the floor? How 'bout that green stuff growing in the shower? Unless,maybe you forgot to tell me you're growing your own penicillin?" His response is "I don't notice these things." How convenient his eyes can filter out the mess around him. Yesterday, put me over the top. I came in from work. He's sitting at the kitchen table and I see red blotches on the floor near the sink. My first thought was that it might be blood; maybe the dog had cut his paw. As I walked over to it I said "Oh, what's this red stuff?" And, without even looking up, he says, "oh, it's liquid from some strawberries I opened before." WHAT? You knew you had spilt this and left it there? He looked at me sheepishly, but he didn't answer.

I've approached this various ways with him. I know psychologists say, instead of just saying what's getting on your nerves, you should explain how it makes you feel. One of the things the LSH does that fits into this category is when he gets himself something to eat, he inevitably will leave whatever plates, glasses, utensils he used, in the sink. So, I've taken this approach. "When you leave your dishes in the sink, I FEEL like you believe it's my job to clean up after you." There. Didn't I present that perfectly? No accusations, no whining. Just a simple statement of how I feel. Has it helped? NOT A DAMN BIT!

Don't get me wrong. He's very handy around the house, when the mood suits him. He's just not motivated.

I was planning on starting this post earlier, but I had to vacuum, do the dishes, put the laundry in. Where's the LSH? In the bedroom, watching "Twister" for the 88th time. I was going to tell him that , you know, the ending isn't going to be any different then it was the previous 87 times he saw it. But, hey. Why spoil the suspense?

POSTSCRIPT: I really do love him.

TOMORROW: The Other Man In My Life That Drives Me Insane - My Boss

COMMERCIAL BREAK

I hope to get a post in today, but in the meantime, I have to share this. I gotta admit, those Brits make some great commercials.

NOTE: ALL ANIMAL LOVERS (LIKE MYSELF): DO NOT BE ALARMED AT THE MIDDLE PART; ALL TURNS OUT WELL)!

The Best Things In Life Are............

free, they say. Well, there are a few things I'm loving right now and, though, for the most part, they weren't free, I'd like to share. (NOTE: I'm in no way endorsing any of these things, nor am I being paid to write about them (unfortunately).



This stuff is amazing and a real god-send for someone who hates to iron like moi. Honestly, is there anyone who really enjpys it?



This mascara from the French cosmetics company, Bourjois, was recommended to me by a salesgirl, who couldn't have been more than 20 years old, in my local Ulta store. She was so enthusiastic and just so gosh-darn sweet that, even though it was a bit pricey for me at $17, I gave it a try. It's claim is that it will make it appear that you're wearing eye liner and give you that doe-eyed look. And it didn't disappoint. Another product that does what it says it will do. Love when that happens.
BTW, while we're talking make-up, I've been selected to be a part of a "Beauty Panel" being organized by J&J to exchange thoughts and ideas and try new products and give my opinions. But they're really serious about this. I had to agree to never give the website address to anyone, share my password or discuss anything that I become privy to with anyone. Who knew the beauty world took itself so seriously?


Her name is Patti Scialfa. For those who don't know, her married name is Springsteen. She's a member of the E Street Band, but she is one hell of a singer/songwriter herself. When her first solo CD, Rumble Doll, was released in '93, I admit, I bought it out of curiosity. After listening to it just once, I became a fan. Maybe because we're about the same age, but the images and feelings she puts into words resonate so true to me. She has since released two other CDs and there isn't a bad track on any of them.


Oh baby tell me stories
About those pretty worlds
Who will deliver us from blame
Who will walk free
Who will walk in chains
And when the sky is falling
What do we believe in
When everything we learned to trust
Turns around and makes a fool of us

But baby I still believe in all of loves glory
I gave that promise to the rain
I'm not afraid to stumble
Baby I can fall

Oh my tender dreams
I gave them such fragile wings and
I sent them up to heaven
But heaven was just too high
And I watched them falter against the sky

But baby I still believe in all of loves glory
I gave that promise to the rain
I'm not afraid to stumble
Baby I can fall

Oh i I could I'd play out my part
I'd cup my hands and
I'd collect the rain that falls inside your heart
But I can't stop the rain
I can't hold back the thunder
Oh but I can make one vow
and promise you my heart right now

'Cause baby I believe in all of loves glory
And no one's gonna talk me down
I'm not afraid to stumble
Baby I can fall
I'm not afraid to stumble
Baby I can fall
I'm not afraid to stumble
Baby I can fall

Artist: Patti Scialfa
Title: Loves Glory

My fingers are tired now. I'll try to post Part Two tomorrow.

Who Are You?

In the last 24 hours, I've had visitors to my blog from, among other places:

LAS VEGAS (where The Flamingo Hotel was named after Bugsy Siegel's girlfriend's legs and it's illegal to pawn your dentures)
SURREY, BRITISH COLUMBIA (1/3 of the population is under 18; home to Canada's kabaddi stadium, which is some team sport where someone called a raider has to fight his way through the opposing team to try and get back to his tram, all the while holding his breath; honest)
BUENOS AIRES (twice) (known as Paris of South America; Aristotle Onassis started out washing dishes in a cafe here when he was 23)
OAK RIDGE, TENNEESEE (hometown of Megan Fox and the fastest supercomputer in the world)
LONDON, ENGLAND (okay, I know you've heard of London, but did you know that the British eat twice as many beans as Americans?)
VADODARA, GUJARAT (the 18th largest city in India and home of the oldest cricket ground in Asia)
BILBAO, PAIS VASCO (the largest city in the Basque Region of Spain; featured in a scene in the James Bond film "The World Is Not Enough)
PORI, FINLAND (big college town & home of an annual jazz fest where Steely Dan has performed)
MONSELICE, VENETO (60 kms from Venice; market day is every Monday)
EUFAULA, OK (POPULATION:2639; County Seat of McIntosh County)
SPRING, TX (20 miles north of Houston; hometown of Josh Beckett, Boston Red Sox pitcher; IS THAT YOU, JOSH?)
CRAVLOVA, DOLJ (Romania's 6th largest city, known for its cheap taxi fares)

Ok, you lurkers. I took the time to find out a bit about you. Now it's your turn to introduce yourselves. Leave a comment. I dare you!

Miscellany On My Mind

Driving home from work Friday night, I saw the light............. the dreaded "Check Engine" light. Question to the auto manufacturers out there:
"Can you be any MORE vague?" (must say this like Chandler Bing). I mean, the last time I looked, the engine had, like, a zillion parts. And, for some reason, I have always hated getting my car serviced. So much so that, when I was much younger and a tad more immature, I blew up the engine in my MR2 because I never had the oil checked. I even hate stopping for gas. And here in Jersey, we don't pump our own gas. We have slaves to do that. Anyway, I took a guess that I needed to get the oil changed, which I did yesterday and the light is now out.

I've read all the Twilight books, but had not seen any of the films, so I had only seen photos of Robert Pattinson and honestly, he did nothing for me. However, I watched Twilight last night and I am now officially a member of Team Edward. So, I was wrong. Bite me.

Why is it, when I get angry, the person telling me to calm down, is usually the person who pissed me off in the first place?

I wish we could somehow collect the gas my dog emits and use it, instead of natural gas, to heat our house. Actually, we could probably heat the entire neighborhood.

My new favorite thing is chocolate-covered pretzels. I received a gift basket for Christmas from a client. It included a large Pennsylvania Dutch pretzel dipped in Godiva chocolate. Sooooo good!

My husband works for the town we live in. The town is self-insured, meaning they have an outside company oversee the administration of it and the town pays the claims once approved by this outside company. My husbad has been seeing an out-of-network doctor for the last year. He has to pay $100 each visit and then submit a claim to the insurance company to be re-imbursed $80 per visit. We haven't received reimbursement for the last six months. Come to find out that all the claims have been approved and sent to the town for payment. However, the town doesn't have the money to pay all the claims they have. How do they get away with this? I'm outraged.

I learned a new word this week: Brobdingnagian,which means "of tremendous size." How have I gotten to this age and never heard this word before?

I have owned a ZUNE, Microsoft's version of the I-Pod, for 3 years and still have no idea how to download music to it. It doesn't come with an instruction manual. I've looked online, but, I'm hopeless when it comes to following instructions for all these electronic gadgets that have become part of every day living now. Anyone have a 10 year old I can borrow to help me with this?

I Love Ellen and Dennis

I don't have much time to spend on the blog right now, but just so you know I'm still around, now and then, when I don't have time. I'll probably post a video or something that I find humorous. I hope you do too.

I've been a fan of Ellen DeGeneres for years. With work every weekday, I don't get to see her show very often. But I found this video from today's show. I just love these "Candid Camera" type jokes. And I also love Dennis Quaid. He was a good sport to participate.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show: The place for Ellen tickets, celebrity photos, videos, games, giveaways and more.

Life Is Hot Chocolate

I heard from someone over the weekend. I wouldn't even really call her a friend. At least, not anymore. We knew each other through a mutual friend about 10 years ago, but, as often happens, we drifted. We were both divorced and we remarried the same year. The gentleman she married was (and is) very wealthy. Over time (not that long a time) I saw that wealth change what was a sweet, caring person into a selfish, thoughtless egomaniac. It was an astonishing transformation. And not a pretty one.
She honestly seemed to believe that the money made her better than everyone. She quickly forgot what it was like to have to earn an income, take care of a home, the normal daily grind that the majority of us have to face most days.

I hadn't heard from her in quite awhile and that was fine by me, as we really don't have much in common anymore. So I was surprised to hear from her and curious as to why. And I still don't know why she called.

After the initial greetings and the "OMGs! What a surprise", I continued the conversation like, I believe, most of us would, by asking "So, how are you?" And that was it. She just prattled on about her "problems," such as having to travel with her husband to the Far East (he likes her with him when he travels on business), which caused her to miss some society event that was, according to her, the "event of the year." And now, she HAS to go to their villa in FL, which she hates, because of some decorating "disaster."

Maybe, some of you reading this think I'm just jealous. Maybe, when I was much younger, yes. And, don't get me wrong, if I won the lottery tomorrow, I wouldn't give the money back. But, the entire time I was listening to her, I just thought "can she be that self-centered not to know that there are millions who would trade their problems for "hers?"

Anyway, after the call, I started thinking about something I read awhile ago. So I searched the internet and found it again. I wish I had a way to send this to her. But, then again, it would probably go right over her head.

A group of graduates, well established in their careers, were talking at
a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired.
During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives.

Offering his guests hot chocolate, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a
large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups — porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking,
some expensive, some exquisite. He then told them all to help themselves to the hot chocolate.

When they each had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said:

"Notice that all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones.
While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress."

"The cup that you're drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate.
In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink."

"What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup
... but you consciously went for the BEST cups."

"And then you began eyeing each other's cups."

"Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate; your job, money and position in society are the cups.
They are just tools to hold and contain life."

"The cup you have does not define, nor change the quality of life you have.
Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate."

The happiest people don't need the best of everything.
They just make the best of everything that they have.

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.
And enjoy your hot chocolate!!

~Author Unknown

Closet Queen

Even though I proved my theory a few weeks ago that cleaning house is bad for your health when I threw my back out vacuuming, I decided that, having the day off, I would tackle a chore I had been delaying for a long time - cleaning out the linen closet. This closet, actually, held very few linens. It had become a "I don't know what to do with it, so I'll put it in here" closet.

It's amazing what I learn about myself when I clean out a closet. First, I am in love with the travel sizes of EVERYTHING. Every time I go away, whether it's for a long weekend or a two week journey, I head to my local Harmon's and buy up everything they have that comes in travel-size. Shampoos, conditioners, toothpaste, mouthwash, hairspray, styling gel, facial cleanser, lotions, polish remover, astringent, deodorant, sewing kits (which I have yet to ever use), purse-size tissue packs, purse-size toilet paper, Purel. I could have a garage sale and just sell what I have of this stuff and be able to retire.

I also have a HUGE stash of shampoos, conditioners, soaps, lotions, shower caps, mouthwash from every hotel I have stayed in over the last 25 years. Why do I feel the need to take this stuff home? I'm always overjoyed when housekeeping restocks the bathroom during our stay. Now I know why we've been charged overweight bag fees on the way home. For most people, their bags are heavier with treasures they've purchased for themselves and their loved ones; not me, I'm stocked up with toiletries that I will never use in 100 years (if I even had that long left).

There were things in this closet that brought back memories that I've tried so hard to forget. Bad memories. Like the Fleet enema and left-over shit (a very appropriate noun) that I had to drink for a colonoscopy. Why the hell was I saving that, you may ask. Just don't ever piss me off and you won't have to worry about it.

So, the closet is finally neat and organized. But, I'm a bit nervous. You know how you keep something around forever; then, right after you decide to throw it out, you find a need for it? I threw out that enema.

Sunday Night Giggle

Just got home from a niece & nephew's birthday party. Don't have a lot of time, but I wanted to share this. I never had seen it before. I hope it makes you laugh as much as it did me.

Looking For A Sole Mate

I know we've all heard that 50% of all marriages end up in divorce. But what about socks and their mates? Has anybody looked into this? Because, if my laundry is any example, there are a LOT of single socks out there. And it seems to affect all sock ethnic backgrounds - the knee-his, the sweatsocks, the argyles, even the cute, little anklets.

Is there a Match.com for single socks? If there is, I have a few lonely socks looking for a mate that I would like to help out.




You can just tell by the teddy bear, that this young lady has a very youthful outlook on life. She is looking for someone who loves to snuggle.



This casual guy is happiest when he's matched with a pair of comfortable, basic jeans. Those into designer labels need not apply.



There's only one baseball team for this gal. Anyone interested in hooking up must be able to withstand major mood swings, based on how well her team is doing and not be offended by foul language. And, if they're out of play-off contention by the All-Star break, you might as well forget any thoughts you may have had about enjoying a wonderful summer together. now, on the other hand, if her team is doing well, you're probably going to find yourself getting very lucky, very often. AND, if, by chance, they win the World Series, buddy, you have no idea what this girl can do.



This guy is known as a trouser sock and does best when he's in an office setting. Not to say he's all work and no play (he'll occasionally show up with a casual khaki). But, overall, you'll need to be creative to get him away from the office.



Most of time, this gal likes to be active. You'll normally find her hanging out in an athletic shoe, maybe playing tennis, working out at the gym. However, she'll slow down sometimes and just take a walk and even just hang around the house, keeping a chilly foot warm.

If you do an internet search, you'll see there are plenty of different theories as to where the socks go. Here's an exclusive video of a sock making its escape:

Common Scents

I don't wear perfume. I haven't for almost 10 years. I stopped after I was diagnosed with asthma and realized perfume aggravated it.

But, after seeing all the ads before Christmas for the zillions of perfumes available now, I want to start wearing it again.

When I was around 12, I started to get interested in perfume and make-up. At the time, one of the popular brands was Jean Nate. Now, pronounce it right; it's "zhen na-te" with the accent on "te." I had the whole works, the bubble bath, lotion, eau de toilette (always loved that ). I thought I was so sophisticated, wearing this "French" perfume. After I finished my Jean Nate bath, my brothers would complain that I had stunk up the bathroom.

From there, I progressed to real perfume and my scent of choice was Shalimar. This is truly a perfume from France, introduced in 1925 and is still around today, an oldie, but a goodie. Of course, the ads for these perfumes are quite over the top now. If my mother read how this scent is being presented today, she would never have let me wear it:

"Shalimar is a fragrance to excite and express desire. She who dares to wear it, is asserting her femininity and ultra sensuality. Hers is carnal seduction at the frontier of the forbidden. Shalimar gives her the freedom to express her feelings and desires relating to her perfume with the utmost in passion. Wearing Shalimar means surrendering control to the senses."

Who writes this stuff? Can a scent truly seduce someone? I believe a person should stick with one perfume, make it your "signature" scent, so whenever a person smells that perfume, they'll think of you. I know when my boyfriend from high school, Carmine (yes, he was from Jersey, but he wasn't a guido!) gets a whiff of Shalimar today, he cannot help but think of me.

Just before I stopped wearing perfume, I was in love with a scent that I actually bought online from Victoria Jackson. It's just known as her "Signature Scent." I had noticed the scent on a woman I was acquainted with and asked her what it was. I was very surprised to hear the answer because this woman was quite wealthy and could afford to wear whatever. I purchased it and I'm not exaggerating when I say I was stopped numerous times by total strangers, asking me what I was wearing.

Now, it seems, every celebrity has their own perfume line. Do people buy a perfume just because there's a "name" attached to it? Celebrity perfumes actually do the opposite for me. I haven't decided what scent I'm going to select, but I doubt that it will be one of these (though Miss Piggy's "Moi" sounds intriguing.

From Wikipedia:

Musicians

50 Cent: Power [1]
Ashanti: Precious Jewel[citation needed]
Avril Lavigne: Black Star
Beyoncé Knowles: True Star, True Star Gold (backed by Tommy Hilfiger), Emporio Armani Diamonds (backed by Giorgio Armani)
Britney Spears: Curious, Fantasy, Curious: In Control, Midnight Fantasy, Believe, Curious Hearts, Hidden Fantasy, Circus Fantasy [2]
Celine Dion: Celine Dion, Notes, Belong, Always Belong, Memento, Enchanting, Spring in Paris, Paris Nights, Sensational, Sensational Moment, Spring in Provence, Chic
Carlos Santana: Carlos by Carlos Santana[3]
Cher: Uninhibited by Parfums Stern, Inc. [4]
Christina Aguilera: Christina Aguilera by Christina Aguilera (2007), Inspire (2008), Christina Aguilera: By Night (2009).[5]
Cliff Richard: Miss You Nights, Devil Woman
Deborah Gibson: Electric Youth (mfd. by Revlon, 1989-1990)
Enrique Iglesias: True Star (backed by Tommy Hilfiger)
Gwen Stefani: L. A. M. B., L by Gwen Stefani, Harajuku Lovers (Includes 5 Different Fragrances)
Jennifer Lopez: JLo Glow, Still, Miami Glow, Love at First Glow, Live, Live Luxe, Glow After Dark, Deseo, Deseo Forever, Deseo For Men, Live Platinum, Sunkissed Glow [2]
Jessica Simpson: Fancy, Fancy Love
Julio Iglesias: Only, Only Crazy [6]
Kiss: Kiss Her, Kiss Him
Leona Lewis: Leona Lewis[7]
Luciano Pavarotti: Luciano, Luciano Pavarotti
Kylie Minogue: Darling[5], Sweet Darling, Showtime, Sexy Darling, Couture, Inverse (Men)
Mariah Carey: M by Mariah Carey, M by Mariah Carey Gold, Luscious Pink, Forever
Michael Jackson: Mystique de Michael Jackson, Legende de Michael Jackson [8], Magic Beat Unwind, Magic Beat Heartbeat, Magic Beat Wildfire, Michael Jackson Mystery [9]
Prince: Get Wild [10], 3121
Sean John: Unforgivable, Unforgivable Woman, Multi-Platinum
Shania Twain: Shania by Stetson, Shania Starlight[citation needed]
Tim McGraw: McGraw, Southern Blend
Usher: Usher For Him, Usher For Her
Victoria Beckham: Intimately Beckham for Her, Intimately Night for Her, Beckham Signature for Her
Alejandro Sanz: Siete Alejandro Sanz Men, Siete Alejandro Sanz Women

Actors/Actresses

Amitabh Bachchan: Amitabh Bachchan by Lomani Perfume for Men
Alan Cumming: Alan Cumming [2]
Antonio Banderas: Spirit, Mediterraneo, Diavolo Hypnotic, Diavolo Donna, Diavolo, Blue Seduction
Catherine Zeta-Jones: Elizabeth Arden Provocative Woman, Red Door Revealed
Charlize Theron: Dior J'Adore
Eva Green: Dior Midnight Poison
Milla Jovovich: Emporio Armani She, Emporio Armani Night for Women, Dior Hypnotic Poison
Elizabeth Taylor: Passion, White Diamonds, Forever Elizabeth, Black Pearls, Diamonds & Emeralds, Diamonds & Rubies, Sapphires & Diamonds [2]
Gloria Swanson: Estée Lauder Youth Dew
Hilary Duff: With Love... Hilary Duff, Wrapped With Love
Isabella Rosselini: Daring, Isa Bella, Manifesto, Storia
Joan Collins: Spectacular
Joan Crawford: Estée Lauder Youth Dew
Kate Winslet: Lancôme Trésor
Uma Thurman: Lancôme Miracle
Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen: N.Y. Chic, L.A. Style; One, Two; Hamptons Style South Beach Chic
Nicole Kidman: Chanel No. 5 (see No. 5 The Film)
Keira Knightley: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle
Raven Symone: That's So Raven
Sarah Jessica Parker: Lovely, Covet, The Lovely Collection: Dawn, Endless & Twilight
Shahrukh Khan: 'SK' by "SK" by Jeannes Arthes. SK Silver for men, and SK Gold for women.
Shilpa Shetty: S2 (pronounced S square) by Mark Earnshaw
Clive Owen: Lancôme Hypnôse
Henry Cavill: Dunhill London
Ewan McGregor: Davidoff Adventure
Monica Bellucci: Dolce & Gabbana Sicily
Reese Witherspoon: In Bloom
Scarlett Johansson: Calvin Klein Eternity Moment
Rachel Weisz: Burberry London for Women
Ioan Gruffudd: Burberry London for Men
Gwyneth Paltrow: Estée Lauder Pure White Linen Light Breeze, Estée Lauder Pleasures, Estée Lauder Pleasures Delights
Liv Tyler: Givenchy Very Irrésistible
Queen Latifah: Queen
Halle Berry: Halle

Athletes

David Beckham: Instinct, Intimately Beckham for Him, Instinct Intense, Intimately Beckham Night for him, Beckham Signature For Him
Derek Jeter: Driven[11]
Maria Sharapova: Maria Sharapova
Michael Jordan: Michael Jordan, Jordan, 23
Carlos Moyà: Carlos Moyà
Jeff Gordon: Halston Z-14

]Fictional Characters

Miss Piggy: Moi
Barbie: Barbie, Barbie Blue, Free Spirit, Sirena, Summer Fun, Super Model
Dora The Explorer: Dora The Explorer[citation needed]
Marvel Comics and DC Comics: X-men, Storm, Spider-man, Hulk, Superman
Strawberry Shortcake: Strawberry Shortcake[citation needed]
The Powerpuff Girls: Bubbles, Buttercup, Blossom[citation needed]
Austin Powers: Mojo [12]
Desperate Housewives: Forbidden Fruit [13]

]Misc.

Calum Best: Calum
Danielle Steel: Danielle
George Kurdahi: Lebanon's George Kurdahi, GK
Jade Goody: Shh..., Controversial
Joan Rivers: Now & Forever
Kate Moss: Kate, Velvet Hour, Kate Summertime
Katie Price: Stunning, Besotted
Kim Kardashian: Voluptuous
Kimora Lee Simmons: Baby Phat Goddess, Fabulosity
Lata Mangeshkar: 'Lata Eau De Parfum' by Gandh Sugandh
Naomi Campbell: Naomi Campbell, Mystery
Prince Nicolò Boncompagni Ludovisi: Prince Nicolò Boncompagni Ludovisi, Giove Nettuno Plutone [14]
Svetlana Stalin: Svetlana's Breath
Zeenat Aman: 'Zeenat' by a Saudi Arabian company
Paris Hilton: Paris Hilton, Just Me, Heiress/Heir, Can Can, Fairy Dust, Siren
Alex Curran: Alex
Chanelle Hayes: Mwah!
Christian Audigier: Ed Hardy [15]

Back To Reality

It's back to work for me tomorrow after being off for 11 days straight. And when you count the time off this month for the cruise, I only worked 9 whole days in Dec. So, I can just see all the crap waiting for me. I wish I liked my job. Actually, the job itself isn't that bad. It's all the stress that comes with it. And, as much as I tell myself I won't let it get to me, I don't see where I have much control over it.

These past 11 days have been totally stress-free and I've enjoyed it so much. I acquired a couple of things that I'm taking into the office:



This will be warning for all who enter my space. And, when they start getting to me, I will read this:



Will any of this help? Probably not. But it's a new year and maybe, some of those folks who drive me crazy made a resolution to try and keep the drama to a minimum. I can only hope.

Liar Liar

It's that time when we're supposed to, at least, THINK about making some positive changes in our lives. I've never been one to make New Year's resolutions, other than the typical lose 10 pounds or some such thing. But, this year, I've been doing some serious soul-searching and have identified a character flaw that I want to work on.

I'm a liar. No, I don't lie about things to other people. I lie to myself. I rationalize some things that I do and lie to myself about why I did it. I've already had an opportunity to address this issue just this week.

I was angry with the LSH about something that happened that he could have easily prevented. Now, I'm not apologizing for being pissed off at him; he admitted that it was his fault. But, I took that anger and used it to make a decision that affected other people. At the time, I told myself that I had legitimate reasons for this decision. But, I was lying to myself. I made the decision because I was mad at the LSH and wanted to punish him.

So, then the hard part came, admitting this to him. But, I swallowed my pride and confessed. And, guess what? The world didn't end. And, I felt much better.

So, that's my resolution. And I'm not lying.

In My Life

One of my very favorite songs is "In My Life." This time of year always gets me thinking of the past, of "people, places and things that went before." So, I think the next few posts may be about some of those things. Today's post is about Dogs I Have Known and Loved.

1. Smokey - On the Christmas Eve that I was either 3 or 4, we lived in Valley Stream, NY and my dad worked for Coca-Cola in Long Island City. On that day's drive into work, he watched a car ahead of him slow down and toss a bundle out of the car. He stopped and found a black puppy inside the bundle. He brought it into work with him and, with the help of several co-workers, he got the dog bathed and presentable to bring home. That night, to our amazement, my dad came in with this little guy with a big red bow around his neck. We were all shocked, including my mom, who had no idea that my dad was bringing this new family member home. He was black as smoke, hence his name.

2. Laffy My aunt had gotten a miniature poodle she called Nappy, which was short for Napoleon. I loved that dog and couldn't wait to visit them so I could play with Nappy. Smokey had passed away, so we were dog-less. The breeder where my aunt had gotten Nappy was having another litter, so we adopted Laffy, the name I gave him, which, in keeping with the French General's theme, was short for Lafayette. Although he was a gift for me, he really became my mother's dog. After my mom died, Laffy became a different dog. He would lie on the bed on my mother's side all day and couldn't be budged without a fight.

3. Tinker This dog was part of the package when I married my first husband. Tinker was a Weimeraner. He was a great dog, very smart with a gentle disposition. However, the marriage didn't last very long and when it was "bye-bye hubby" time, it was "bye-bye Tinker" too.

4. Patrick - After Smokey died, I asked my parents if I could have an Old English Sheepdog. I had seen Disney's "The Shaggy Dog," (the original one, not the re-make, where they used a bearded collie instead of an OES; totally unacceptable. There is only one dog that can lay claim to being the Shaggy Dog and that is the OES). But, no way. They're too big, too slobber-y, too hairy. So, now, being an independent, self-sufficient woman, I finally got my first OES. Don't ask me why I named him Patrick. I just always said that, when I get my sheepdog, his name would be Patrick. And he was everything you expect a sheepdog to be, big, goofy, intelligent, friendly (sometimes to a fault). One thing about this breed, wherever you go with them, people smile. I tell you, if you're looking to meet people, find an Old English and take him out somewhere. They are a people magnet.

5. Chloe - I stopped by my local Petsmart for dog food for Patrick and they were having an Adopt-A-Pet Day for a local, no-kill shelter. I went for dog food and came home with Chloe, a 14 month old Briard.
At first she was very shy, but within a few months, she became the Princess and took over the position of alpha dog from Patrick. (Sheepdogs tend to be wussy, in the first place, and he was almost 14 years old, so he really didn't give a shit, at that point). Briards are very intelligent and can be quite domineering, even of their owners, if not trained. I discovered this first hand and hired a trainer for ME, so I could learn how to handle her. She turned out to be a wonderful pet and my best girlfriend.

6. Bailey - Patrick passed away about 6 months after Chloe joined us and she was the solo dog for about 6 months, when I saw an ad in the local paper about a litter of OES puppies for sale. How could I resist? So, that's when Bailey entered my life and is, as I write this, laying on his bed on the floor next to me, both of us very happy to be here to see the new year in together, along with the LSH.

A HAPPY, HEALTHY, & PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!