Step Inside, Walk This Way

Guess who is going to see Def Leppard, Poison and Cheap Trick in concert, bitches? To say that I am excited is a supreme understatement. I am pretty much freaking out and cannot wait until September. I am going with some of my favorite concert buddies and am going to throw out a quick plea to S to come down from Seattle for this momentous event. Come on, Man! Remember how much fun Billy Idol was? I bet this will provide as many, if not MORE, laughs.

So, I think I need to start watching Rock of Love or something to get my outfit just so. Anyone know where I can get a leather fringe halter top? Cappa has already suggested leopard-print leggings and maybe a neck tat. At this point anything is possible. Seems like I should also have some daddy issues and smeared lipstick and/or eyeliner. Thank goodness I have time to prep.

And here I thought knowing all the words to "Unskinny Bop" would never help me later in life.

Tonight, We Bowl!

Monday I woke up with the kind of headache you get after you've spent the day riding around in a limo swigging champagne in between visits to three separate wineries. And yet when a certain three year-old woke me with "WE'RE GOING TO THE BOWLING ALLEY!" I knew I had to sack up and face the noise.

Apparently every family within a 50 mile radius had the same idea we did (rain + no school = bowling), but the hour-long wait for a lane was made more bearable by the abundance of hangover food available at SeaBowl. Cheese sticks? Check. Pizza? Check. Chips and salsa? Check. Let's do this!

Little Man so excited that he "knocked down those pins" all the way at the end of the lane. Moments after this photo was taken I squeezed that little face and kissed him because I can.

Sissy tries to convince Bubba to use the racks provided for kids to help them bowl. Captain Independent was having none of it and insisted on hurling the ball down the lane. Each turn took approximately 34 minutes.

The DeFazio kids celebrating a successful turn. At this point Evan was just enjoying goofing off with the rack...it gave him something to do as the ball made its slow-ass way down the lane.

Happy Birthday Nikki! aka "Bitch, you asked for it!"

Interweb, I totally screwed up. Yesterday was the birthday of a friend. She had expressed some...not-so-happy feelings about said birthday and I figured a shout-out would be as welcome as an open-handed slap in the mouth. How wrong I was! Nikki and I met through Boy Chris at the Vegas bachelor party and sat across from each other at dinner. An all-you-can-eat-meat dinner, where I made a complete and utter pig of myself. If she was horrified, she didn't show it. And we all know that a requirement to roll with CKD is the ability to hide your disgust at my eating habits.

Nikki's sarcasm is like a verbal bitch slap. I mean this in the best possible way.

Nikki can handle a car full of drunk morons at the In-n-Out drive-thru trying to place orders all at the same time without murdering all of us and dumping the bodies.

Nikki's reaction when a couple of aforementioned drunk morons spill a milkshake in the car? A nonchalant, "It's OK. This is my sister's car."

Nikki is on Team Get CKD to Move to Pasadena and has offered invaluable advice to put that plan into action.

Nikki never judges my immature giggling at the word "balls" and does not roll her eyes when I scream "THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!" She kind of encourages it, and it's nice to have a partner in idiocy.

Nikki, for all of her smart-assedness (Is that word? We'll say it is, sure.) is usually the first one to respond to an SOS when I'm feeling down. Especially if this is expressed via Facebook because sweet Jesus, that girl is ALWAYS ON FACEBOOK. And yes, this is the pot calling the kettle "addicted."

Nikki's pride in her alma mater, Boston College, should grant her status as official spokesperson or something. Except I'm pretty sure if someone questioned its awesomeness she'd just punch him or her in the neck. But come on - wouldn't you kind of want to see THAT?

Have an amazing day (well, day AFTER your birthday) and a fantastic year. And don't even try to tell me you're off the booze.

Birthday Girl on the far right, lookin' damn sassy with Kristie and Cappa.

Happy Birthday Kelly! aka "Do you have any jellybeans?"

So young! So innocent! Merry Christmas, December 1995.

Kelly and I have provided hours of entertainment and acted as alibis for each other since 1989. We met as goofy tweens in the 6th grade at St. Joseph's, moved on to high school together and were even freshman year roomies at the Puge. So, yeah... we've seen each other through some stuff. And by "stuff" I mean questionable hairstyles, boyfriends, and fashion choices. But through it all we can count on each other for support and a road trip to cure all. On the surface we have little in common. She's tall, I'm short. She's athletic, I sometimes walk without falling down. She's a little bit country, I'm a little bit rock-n'-roll. For some reason these things just don't matter and seem to add to our bond.

Kelly is possibly the only other person I've ever met who could rival my enthusiasm in the boy-craziness area during junior high and high school. And maybe even now? (Kidding, Duane. Uh, dude, you may not want to read parts of this.)

Kelly is an excellent wingwoman. (Seriously, Duane, this would be a good point for you to turn away.) She is quick with the opening icebreaker, an excellent flirt without being inane, and never cockblocks.

Kelly tried to talk me out of purchasing my Doc Marten boots, and failed. But she never gave me shit once I did and wore them every day of sophomore year of high school. However, I'm pretty sure she was secretly relieved when I started switching it up and quit dressing like I was on my way to a Pearl Jam concert every day.

Kelly is a country music fan and expanded my musical horizons by introducing me to some of her favorite artists. And you know what? I like some of it. There, I said it. Some of our best memories are from concerts I never would have attended had it not been for her nudging me out of my grunge-bubble.

Kelly loves Aerosmith, too, and our soundtrack from the summer of 1994 features them heavily. So, you know, she's a reasonable gal.

Kelly and I took a road trip to LA right after high school graduation. We had been planning it for four years, and it felt like such a grown-up person thing to do. We went to Disneyland, which was not the most grown-up thing to do. Basically, the perfect bridge between high school and college life.

Kelly has a horrible memory. She often asks me about someone's name, or a date, or what happened when. It's tempting to mess with her, but I don't. You're welcome, Belles.

Kelly lived with me for a year, during a time when I was...how do I put this? A complete and utter pain to be around. She managed not to throttle me and still takes my calls. This may be where the horrible memory plays in my favor.

Kelly has an awesomely patient boyfriend who will go out to dinner with us and listen while we blab non-stop back-and-forth and rattle off inside jokes. (Hi Duane! You can read this part!)

Kelly will do anything for her friends and family if it means it will improve their lives even slightly. From the practical (like a ride to the airport) to the emotional (holding your hand and doing a good luck chant/dance) she will step up. Always.

Belles, I have loved every minute riding shotgun and cooking up goofy schemes with you (Messing with Matt's car? Genius! Until we were caught.) and talking about real plans for our futures. This is going to be a great birthday, a great year and I look forward to celebrating many more with you!

Fighting for the Right to Party Since 2006

Me: "What do you want to do for your birthday?"

Evan: "I want to CELEBRATE it!" (tiny fist pump in the air)


Nice to see the "party" gene hasn't skipped him.

The Year in Review

January: Evan turned 2 and we celebrated with an Elmo-themed birthday party. I turned 30 and we celebrated with a booze-themed birthday party.

February: Quit my job working for Satan and felt instantly better about life. Went to my first bachelor party.

March: Moved across the country.

April: Partied it up Puge-style at Boy Chris and Katie's wedding in Pasadena. Attended Lili's baby shower and predicted she was having a girl.

May: My Grandma Pat passed away. Juno was born one week later. Her birth and the joy and anticipation surrounding it cushioned the loss tremendously.

June: Moved across the country again. Lost about 10 lbs. Started this blog.

July: Started a new job and met my friend Katie.

August: Celebrated Kim and Justin's marriage in Portland. Had the crap scared out of me when Dad was hospitalized briefly. Was incredibly thankful for Dad's speedy recovery and subsequent good health.

September: Spent some quality time with Dad and the family. Celebrated Brad and Gustavo's marriage...for the third time. It doesn't get old; those guys throw a rad party.

October: Went to Pasadena and am thinking about moving there. Met Juno and fell in love at first sight. Went to San Diego and am thinking about moving there.

November: Welcomed Rico home from Iraq and learned that he and Beth are making me an auntie again.

December: Took a fantastic trip to New York. Reflected on the amazing surprises, blessings and gifts this last year brought me. Started thinking about grad school, next career move and where I want to land for awhile. Celebrated both the passing of one incredible year and the hope and excitement of a new year with family and friends.

Here's to 2009 kicking the ass of 2008! Be safe, be happy, and cheers to you!

The Most Gorgeous Train Wreck You Will Ever See

Today my mom and I are indulging in our favorite past times: eating and mocking others.

Have you ever seen Say Yes to the Dress on TLC? It is a show all about real women picking out their wedding dresses at the famed Kleinfeld bridal salon in New York. It is also a study in family dynamics, passive-agressive behavior and tacky taste in fashion. Obviously I love it.

There is a marathon on today. I am feeling better so my mom whipped up some of her famous crab and cheese fondue and we're avoiding the cold and crowds out there...and laughing our asses off at these women, their moms and bridesmaids. Some of the highlights:

-A woman is afraid that if her dress has too much beading, her fiance will leave her at the altar

-The bustiest woman I have ever seen this side of porn trying on dresses in front of her fiance, who CANNOT STOP TALKING ABOUT HER CLEAVAGE. On TV. In front of her mother.

-The (clearly single) sister of the bride refusing to crack a smile or tell her sister she looks anything other than "nice" in each beautiful dress

-A jilted bride has to make the decision to lose $6,000 on a dress and leave it at the store, or pay the remainder, take it with her, and hope that one day she'll get to wear it. She decides to pay for it and keep it. (Sweetie, sell it on eBay and take a nice vacation!)

-A woman breaks down in tears after her mom tells her that her dream dress is heinous

Mind you, my mom and I are basically treating this show like Mystery Science Theater 3000 and screaming out when someone tries on something hideous or looks awful in a dress (which happens about every two minutes). We are also placing bets on how quickly each marriage ends in divorce.

The other great part is watching women freak out over getting married. Not freak out like, "Oh my God! I'm getting married! This is so great!" More like, "I'm having trouble committing to a dress because ultimately I am unsure about marrying someone and signing paperwork and legally binding myself to another human. But hey! Let's try on some pretty gowns!"

Every commerical break also features an ad for the movie (and affront to all women everywhere) Bride Wars. I mean, seriously. Can I hear from the ladies in the house? Is the premise that the "perfect" wedding is more important than interpersonal relationships insulting to anyone else? Ugh.

Happy Birthday Cappa! aka "That's a Hot Tranny Mess!"

What, you thought I'd do a birthday tribute for Jesus? Nope. Today we are celebrating Courtney Cappa: fashionista, Facebook addict, and lush.

Cappa and I met earlier this year at Boy Chris' bachelor party in Vegas, so I don't have as many embarrassing or touching stories about her, but what I do have? Oh, there be some gems. And the photos? Oh man, the photos... Neither one of us will ever be able to run for public office.

Cappa apparently tried to break some sort of binge drinking record in Vegas the first night and was heard telling Boy Chris, as she leaned on him for support, "Sorry if I drool on you a little." That right there pretty much sealed it for me: this broad is a keeper.

Cappa tried to take advantage of groomsman/nurse Jared's surefire hangover cures in Vegas: IV hydration bags after said night of drunken foolishness. There was some mishap with getting this plan to work, but the sight of this hungover girl in a Vegas hotel room trying to rally for night two was inspiring. Talk about dedication to the cause.

Cappa offers excellent wardrobe advice, which is always appreciated by Girl Chris, the fashion retard. From what to wear to a wedding to a weekend in New York, the girl is spot-on.

Cappa preached the Gospel of Dunkin Donuts coffee to me, which led me to give it a whirl and fall head over heels in love. So, yeah, thanks for getting me hooked on something I can't get locally.

Cappa's birthday falls on Christmas (duh) but rather than whine about it, she chooses to see the positive: she never has to work, it's festive, her family is gathered together...basically, the glass is half full. Of beer. Or Dunkin Donuts coffee.

Cappa got stuck with the bar tab Boy Chris and I rang up. As a joke, we got the bartender to transfer our tab to hers, and she "consented" by giving him a smile and a thumbs up. For some reason she still speaks to us.

Cappa, you bring the party with you wherever you go, and I am so grateful that my circle of friends now includes you. To quote you, "we are rad bitches." Truer words were never spoken. Enjoy your day!

Such an introvert.

No Excuse Really

So, I haven't really been on the ball with the whole holiday card thing. If you don't get one, don't take it as a slight or anything. I've been overwhelmed with saving the world...oh who am I kidding? I've been carousing, drinking, traveling and now I'm recovering from some mutant cold.
To make it up to you, I will share something that brings me great joy: a not-so-bloated Alec Baldwin and a joke which revolves around the word "balls." Don't say I am lacking in holiday spirit.

http://www.hulu.com/watch/4156/saturday-night-live-nprs-delicious-dish-schweddy-balls

I've Got a Gun, Let's Go to a Broadway Show

Despite the heartbreaking absence of a Tina Fey sighting, New York was awesome. Absolutely amazing, really. There's really no way for me to talk about the trip in any sort of interesting meaningful way, so I'll just hit you with the highlights:

*Not sure how to express my newfound love for Dunkin' Donuts coffee, but let's just say it's a good thing it's totally acceptable for me to put that stuff in my mouth because OH MAN DO I LOVE DUNKIN' DONUTS COFFEE.

This one's for you, Cappa.

*In keeping with the theme of my life, "I am a Lonely Nerd" I was exceedingly excited about our trip to the New York Public Library. My purse was searched about 870 times while there, which is funny considering it's mostly closed stacks. What do the guards think I have in there? A painting off the wall? Also, are we concerned that the security at a library is more intense than the security at the airport? I spent a fair amount of time trying to find the exact location where Big ditches Carrie and think I succeeded.

*Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge made me feel like I was in a movie. That may be because I regaled Kevin with the entire plot of the Sex and the City movie and explained its significance to Miranda's storyline which I still maintain was total bullshit but whatever. No one asked me, right? But the bridge was awesome in spite of the wind. My Dunky's kept me warm.

*Have you been to the Met? If so, did your head almost spin off of your neck due to the sheer awesomeness of it all? I was actually a little dizzy by the time we reached the Egyptian temple, but that may have been a caffeine buzz from Dunky's.

*Rockefeller Center...yeah, no Tina, but still pretty awesome all-around.

*Taking the ferry to Staten Island is a good (read: free) way to see the Statue of Liberty, but without all of the waiting around and crowds and such. Also, if you leave the ferry terminal, cross the street and make a right, you will find a Dunkin' Donuts. Fun fact.

*Did you know that I can walk around an amazing city and relate everything to an episode of Sex and the City or Law & Order? Did I mention I'm still single?

*Speaking of Law & Order, I saw Anthony Anderson and did not point and shriek, "OHMYGODLAWANDORDERILOVEYOUWHERE'SJACKMCCOYAAAHHHH!" So, I might actually be growing up a bit. Who knew?

*For all of its touristy cheesiness, the Empire State Building was more than worth the wait in line. We lucked out with a gloriously clear evening, but CKD could have used some space heaters up there.

"Bring your green hat." What's up? Everything's cool...I'm NOT AFRAID OF HEIGHTS and kind of dying inside a little about being 86 stories up in the air. Nope, not me. Totally casual and cool. Really. I'm not clinging to another person as if my life depended on it.

Oh, and obviously the very best part ever of New York was quality time with one of my oldest and dearest friends. Duh. Thanks for a fantastic weekend, Kevin! You rock!

On the Move

Look who's crawling! Let the babyproofing of the house begin!

Juno says, "I'm outta here, bitches. I've got some friends to meet for cocktails down at Whistle Stop. Peace out."

"Hey guys...remember those months where you could set me down and I'd just chill there for awhile and you didn't have to worry about me moving? Yeah, those were good times. Kiss them goodbye."

Rockin' the accessories like her Mama taught her.

Where Did You Get $240? Sshhh...

I dedicate this post to Miz Literature.

Does anyone else remember the TV show The State from MTV? It was on in the mid-90's and was quite possibly some of the goofiest, funniest, most random shit ever. Sometimes the sketches were stupid, but oh man...when they got something right those mothers NAILED it.

Plus, I love Ken Marino:

Here is where I would make a joke about him dipping his balls in something, but, like, 3 people would get it and the rest of you would just think I'm a sick perv.

I keep hearing rumors of a movie involving the cast and I'm not really sure how that would work. It would be like a Saturday Night Live movie: what the hell would the plot be? It's a sketch comedy program - would they try to tie in recurring characters to make some sort of cohesive plot? Would it be any good? Who am I kidding? I'd pay full price to see it. The soundtrack would be great.

Not really sure where I'm going with this, other than wondering if anyone else out there knows this show. I find that I quote from many of the sketches a lot in daily life, regardless if I think the person I'm talking to has any clue what I'm saying. Anyone? Bueller?

Like Emily Freakin' Post Up in Here

Seems like everywhere I turn there's an article with etiquette and helpful hints on navigating the workplace holiday party without being known as the office drunk/slut. I, sadly, work in Scroogeville, and will not even have an opportunity to eat too many cookies at an office party, let alone get wasted.

This was not always the case, my friends.

Oh yes, young CKD had herself a big girl job with a big girl company at the age of 21. (Did you know me when I was 21? If so, let me just issue a blanket apology if I ever threw up on or around you. That was my signature move back in the day.) This company was comprised primarily of older men, which meant my need to prove myself usually manifested itself in talking sports and/or drinking heavily. Guess which one is "problematic" at a work function?

Anyway, the point is that I have probably committed every faux pas ever mentioned in one of these "play it cool at the office party and save your drunken jackassery for a family gathering" articles. Except for the one about discussing religion and politics. I never bring that up when we could discuss how hot my office crush is. Much more appropriate.

Let me add a few other helpful tips for any of you out there who are unsure about walking the line between "good time" and "the HR lady needs to talk to you."

1.) If you are wearing a sorta tight dress and you are new to swing dancing and your dance partner really wants to try that move where he flips you around his back don't be shocked when your zipper explodes and your entire back FROM YOUR BRA TO YOUR UNDERWEAR is exposed. Looking suave while executing this move and landing on your feet are the least of your worries, Sweetie.
1a.) Wear underwear - good ones.

2.) The "open bar" is not a challenge. Do not approach it as "Oh, you think you've got enough booze for 200 people? We'll just see about that." This is especially good advice if neither you nor your date (Hi Brian!) are of legal drinking age, you damn moron. What are you trying to do? Get your employers busted for serving to a minor? Jesus.

3.) If you are there with a date, do not ditch him or her and then hook up with someone else at the party. (I have NEVER done this, but this happened to a friend of mine and oh dear God was that awkward.) Even if you are there solo, maybe don't hook up with anyone there. If you've made a love connection and it's deep and true and real (and not just the shots of Patron) you can call him or her tomorrow, keeping your private life out of sight of management. Also, don't hook up with management.

4.) Did we cover wearing underwear? OK, good. I really cannot stress that one enough.

5.) Don't scream "FREEBIRD" at the band or request "Rag Doll" repeatedly.

Hope this helps all of you use your professional gatherings as a way to network, teambuild and celebrate a year of hard work. Remember to wear underwear!

They're All Gonna Laugh at You

I am probably toeing the line between superfan and crazy freakshow here, but this week's episode of 30 Rock was pretty much the best thing I've ever seen. Ever. God bless Hulu. If you missed it on Thursday, you can watch it on http://www.hulu.com/ as many times as you want. Like, three times in one day while you eat cheese and crackers. Not that I would do that or anything... just, uh, making you aware of options. Yeah.

Liz goes to her high school reunion somewhat reluctantly, as she dreads facing up to the cool, pretty girls. Encouraged by Jack to show them that she is a successful, happy adult, she attends only to find out that the sense of humor she cultivated as a defense mechanism caused actual emotional trauma to everyone she encountered. Throw in the girl from Teen Witch, some 80's music and references to Carrie and you have the finest half hour on television this week.

After watching this I actually IM'd a friend of mine "i think i was kind of like liz lemon in high school." So, uh, sorry if I was a total bitch or whatever. I was in kind of a bad mood from 1987 until about 2002.

Cure for the Common "Blahs"

Lately a general sense of malaise has overcome me and I haven't quite known how to get out of it. Even my excitement over the holidays hasn't been able to fully pull me out of it.

And then a cure came today, in the form of concert tickets.

For Willie Nelson AND Blondie*. I am beyond thrilled. There are a lot of fun things to look forward to between now and then (Willie is in January, Blondie in February), such as, oh, you know, the entire festive, wonderful holiday season...but having a little extra somethin' going on really lifted my spirits today. Woohoo!



*Two separate shows, but can you imagine if they toured together? Wow.

Since I Can't Buy the World a Coke...

I'll send a round of shout-outs to some pretty fabulous MVP's in my life. Obviously, each of you is fantastic, but we have some standouts.

Boy Chris and Katie (and by extension, the whole Pasadena crew): I am still in awe of their hospitality and general fabulousness. These two are amazing hosts (not to mention great cooks) and should open a bed and breakfast or something. You guys all rock and the pleas to move down have made me feel real special-like.

Elisabeth: As usual, my girl continues to be hilarious and down-to-earth. When I mentioned that I would be happy to go to her usual mommy group events when I visit her, she replied, "No, it'll be good to talk about something other than a baby carrier or if my kid is crawling. I need to talk to someone about normal stuff." Also, she has already told Daddy Nick that he will be watching Miss Juno while Mommy and Auntie get their drink on. Her acupuncture practice is getting off the ground and she and Nick are raising the most smiley, lovely baby girl. (And here I get all excited about my multi-tasking skills when I manage to apply eye shadow while talking on the phone.)

Enrique: aka Mc Phresh Rico...or just Rico. Guess who is home from Iraq? Booya! A dear friend of mine is a Navy reservist and has spent the last year away from his attractive wife and their darling son. Read all about his adventures in country here http://narmya.blogspot.com/ if you haven't checked it out. Well-written and an interesting perspective on the life of a soldier. I am so happy he is home and safe, and greatly admire they way he and his wife continued to work as a team during their time apart. Also, Rico can quote Sixteen Candles backwards and forwards so he's just generally a rad guy.

Mom: How many moms take their kid out for a good hangover lunch? Not many, but mine sure stepped up. As good as the food sounded, my poor system could only handle a Coke and some salad, but I appreciated her offer of ribs and cornbread. Then we went and bought a lamp for her and a cocktail dress for me. Of course. Mom, you're aces.

Oh God I Hope She Doesn't Write About Her Period Again

Hey, remember that time I regaled you with tales of cramps? Yeah. Well, Normal Christen is here, so we can go back to discussing my hair and drinking. Comforting, no?

Last night I was watching the Democratic National Convention and I momentarily flashed back to being 10 and annoyed when regular TV was pre-empted for all of the boring speeches and I knew Dukakis wasn't going to be president anyway, so why were we watching this stuff? Kind of funny what childhood stuff sticks and what doesn't. Anyway, I enjoy "the boring speeches" now and hearing Biden and Obama talk just got me all excited for the future because I am an optimist and idealist at heart. I got all fired up and wanted to yell out "Steve Holt!"* but refrained.

My conversation with Dad was cut short last night by the sounds of screams coming from a certain toddler who, from what I could gather, was refusing to put on his jammers and begin The Bedtime Routine. That aside, my dad sounds about a jabillion times better than he did a week ago and our whole family appreciates the concern and love you've been showing. Interweb, you're aces.

I'm on the hunt for black knee-high boots, ideally sexy enough to rock on the weekends, but classy enough that I could wear them to work, too. So if you see any could you let me know? Thanks.

Steve Holt!

*If you get that reference, please let me know so we can make out or something.

In Perfect Cursive

All I want for Christmas:

http://www.bustedtees.com/rirruto?utm_medium=CPA&utm_source=AdvertisingCom&utm_campaign=ThinSkyscraper

But if you buy it and send it to me right this minute that would be pretty sweet, too.

Wherein I Reference Dickens and Silent Bob

At one point during my interview I was told I would assist some colleagues in planning a conference on sustainability and energy at our campus. Yesterday when I was chatting with one of those people and said, "Oh, by the way, I look forward to helping with our conference here" she looked right back at me and replied, like it was no biggie, "Good, because you'll be the lead for that. You know, plan it." Oh sure. I've been here two minutes, give me a huge project. I certainly don't mind the workload, but I don't want to disappoint.

Looks like I will attend at least one conference in Pasadena and maybe another in San Luis Obispo, which means gathering ideas on everything from the set-up to the program. I want to call ours "Sustainability Wow" as an homage to Kevin Smith*...or maybe "Sustain THIS!" and require all presenters to end their segments with jazz hands. I could go either way.

It's a little intimidating, but mostly I'm excited. I can put all of my wedding planning energy into the conference and dial down the Miss Havisham** act a little bit.



*You just fell in love with me a little bit more, didn't you?
**It's OK, Baby. Don't fight it.

What a Way to Make a Living

You know your day is off to a good start when the first song you hear on the radio is "Mickey" by Toni Basil.

Apparently when I left my job in this department two years ago no one deactivated my email account, which means I literally had over 900 messages waiting for me this morning. Nothing of grave importance, although I did miss a few ice cream socials.

I am working on a few projects and love that much of my day was spent researching energy and sustainability policies at various institutions...and my bosses want me to write one up for our school. So two of my great loves - writing and the Earth - are all over each other and it's blowing my mind.

Mixed feelings about my workspace. I'm at a perfectly functional desk stocked with enough Post-Its and such to keep me happy for a good long time, but it's in the conference room which means no window. And no co-workers milling around, which can be half the fun of working in an office. The bright side? No co-workers milling around, which means I'm streaming KFOG and got to turn "Sweet Emotion" up a little louder than would be OK if I had cubiclemates or something.

During lunch with my mom there were a few Police and Fire Academy cadet sightings. Yes, these guys were born in 1992 or some such ridiculousness, but Mrs. Robinson over here doesn't care. Koo-koo kachoo indeed.

Then on the way home I got to rock out to Joan Jett and then Rick Astley so yeah, it was the best Monday ever.