new wheels

Since I moved, I thought about getting a bike.  We have so many great trail systems out here.  But the biggest thing holding me back was money, second was what would I use the bike for? Road? Mountain?  I kept going back and forth.  My friends who newly became obsessed with biking told me to get a good bike, its worth the money.  Then you have all the accessories and attire....it was just too much.  Winter rolled around and I forgot about the idea of wanting a bike.  Spring came and I was so busy adjusting to working again.  Summer almost ended by the time I maybe figured out what I wanted.

I wanted a mountain bike...until I was in Steamboat Springs and I saw mountain biking in action.  The following weekend I went biking shopping.  I ended up with a hybrid, exactly what I didn't want.  But I didn't want to commit to road or dirt.  The hybrid is in the middle.  Who would have thought that my 'new' fear of commitment would spread to bikes too?

I ended up with a Giant/Liv Alight 1.  It is nice and light and comfortable "city" bike.  Great if I want to commute, but it can handle some dirt too.

It's been 14 years since I road a bike...and my last experience was tough hills in Vermont I wasn't ready for that sort of scared me from biking again...even though I set up my bike as a recumbent bike for a few months.  Anyway, the point is I needed to ease into it this time so I wouldn't be turned against it.

My first ride was 3 miles, then 6 then 13 then 15.  There were a few areas with softer dirt/rocky and my bike really struggled but if I want to pursue that type of cycling in the future...it is still an option.

I met up with several people from craigslist for a bike rack and tension bars or whatever they are called and got 'deals' well, as far as not paying full price.  I spent a lot of time researching the platform racks vs the arm racks...and went with the arm racks only because I wanted the option of toting along more than 2 bikes....which might be a rare occurrence, but you never know.

getting my geek on

One of the meet up groups I recently joined was a euro board game group.  I loved playing board or card games growing up, but I did not know this genre of games even existed.  I was so excited to not only find these types of games where I get to think, but also that other adults like to play these games too.

But, it is like the Big Bang Theory.  The group is predominantly men.  Smart men with very little social skills.

I really enjoyed it.  I am looking forward to going back.

my first Colorado winter experience

When word got out I was moving to Colorado, everyone asked if I liked to ski.  No, I don't.  I tried downhill skiing on two different occasions, and I really did not enjoy it.  Cross country skiing...now that I enjoyed when I tried it this past January.  No, I was not moving to Colorado to go "skiing", not many people think of cross country when they think Colorado skiing.

This new friend I met really wanted to go skiing and had a coupon for buy one get one free lift tickets to Winter Park.  I thought it would be good for me to get out of the house and get some fresh air because I really haven't done anything 'fun' in a while.  It gets a little mopey job searching and cleaning all the time.

I had my snowshoes shipped out to me about a month ago, I was happy to take them out of the box, along with my winter boots and gloves.  I had my base layers and coat already from when it was below freezing the week before.  We met at a park and ride and I drove out there.  Thankfully, the roads were dry, I am not sure if I would have been a good driver if the roads were wet and icy.

Now, I did NOT need a lift ticket to go snowshoeing, but that would defeat the whole purpose of my friend saving money.  So I bought one/half price $36.50 and took the lift up with her the first time and then walked down a trail.  Sadly, I only did it that one trail.  Since walking takes a bit longer than skiing, my friend had already gone down 3 or 4 times (only short, easy trails were open since it was pre-season), and then after we stopped for a beer and half lunch, I videoed her when she went down two or three times.  

On our way out, we decided to make snow angels.  I haven't done that in years, it was so much fun to feel like a kid again!

Our trip back was faster than getting there by 40 minutes (thankfully much less traffic going east) and she was able to make her dinner plans with another friend.

new football fan

I think it is hysterical that this past weekend I was yelling at the football players on TV.  I was home alone watching football....who ever would have thought?

I wanted fantasy football points and I wanted to beat my opponent.  I was being mean - I was hoping that my player who dislocated his finger would come back out to play! How horrible, I think if I dislocated my finger I wouldn't want to play; then again I am not so tough.  And I was hoping other players would drop the ball or get tackled because they were my opponents players, not nice, I should want everyone to succeed in their jobs.

I was glued to the TV.  I didn't want to leave the house or to even use the bathroom because I didn't want to miss anything.  And even more frustrating I wanted to watch games that I didn't get, and I am not that huge of a fan to spend money I don't have on a better sports package.

My biggest challenge is to stay awake to watch some of these games.  Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays?  Yeah, I have to work the next day, so I go to sleep not knowing how my players are doing, and sleep a little restless.

Ah, the obsession that comes from a little friendly competition.  And when football ends....march madness is around the corner.

upgrading camera thoughts

With my upcoming trips, I was thinking about upgrading my camera so my pictures would look a little nicer. I have one of those Cannon Powershot point and shoot cameras.  It is small and convenient and it works good enough, but I want more for these trips.

I started researching something in the $300 range but was disappointed in what is available and their reviews.  So I went a little higher and found some entry level SLR cameras.  Do I need something so fancy?  No, but I am seriously considering purchasing an SLR camera now after reading reviews and seeing pictures.  It would be a lot more money than I wanted to spend (so much for saving and not spending!)

I don't think it would be a wasteful purchase.  I enjoy taking pictures and I still scrapbook, although I need to go places to do it more often.  Cameras should last a few years so while I might be making a large purchase, over time I won't be so bad...unless I really get into it and need all those accessories.

I've narrowed it down to four cameras.  I've spent a lot of time researching reviews and prices.  My biggest question now is - does it matter where I get it from? You have the usual places - the camera manufacture website and a camera store.  Then you have places like BestBuy and Walmart.  Add to that the wholesale distributors like Costco, BJs and Sam's Club.  And now the cheaper websites like Overstock and Amazon.   So many choices.  For the most part the prices are close enough...except for Amazon.  I could get a really great deal with extras - but what is the catch?  Will the camera die sooner?  Will it be the manufacturers defect? or will it be perfect?

First outing with the kayaks

My sister came over yesterday to help figure out how to attach the kayaks to the roof (the directions

were barely helpful).  The Big Stack Carrier by Yakima was the one I purchased, I can fit up to four on my car...but I only plan on carrying two for now.  It took about 30 minutes, but we figured it out.  We tied it over the kayak and to the crossbars.  Then we strapped the kayaks to the front/back of the car for even extra support, and I was very surprised how stable it seemed (I shouldn't have been, I mean, that IS it's purpose after all).  But it didn't stop me from "testing" out driving with it.  I started going really slow...made a few turns very slowly just to get a feel and once I knew they weren't going to fall off (not that I really thought that, but you have to make sure when something is so new) I went a little faster - but it was local so I didn't get above 40 yet - when I bring them somewhere that requires highway driving I'll see how it holds up, but other reviewers said they were comfortable at 70 MPH.

We made it to the water and took everything off (easy part) and carried the kayaks to the boat ramp.  We kayaked for about 60 minutes as she had other plans to get ready for and it was our first time and we didn't want to over do it.  It was so relaxing, and I made sure we took a moment to just stop and enjoy the view, the air and the experience.  To relax and clear our heads.  When we got back to the car, it only took 15 minutes to secure the kayaks to the roof and get everything in the car and start the engine.  I knew the first time would take the longest and it would get easier after I've done it a few times.    

Even with the experience of having a helping hand today - I know I can't raise the kayak onto the roof alone at this point - maybe at the end of the summer when I develop arm muscles from all the paddling.  So I'll probably keep one kayak in the water and one at home, so if someone wants to go with me, they'll help getting it onto the roof.  I might also take a class with L.L. Bean to improve my paddling efficiency. 

I can't wait to get out there more - enjoy the sun, the fresh air, the weather and the relaxed feeling.

transporting Kayaks & Rack & Go

These kayaks have consumed a lot of my time.

First it was finding one.  Getting accessories.  The roof rack (research & install).  Then it was deciding where to go.  Considering I live near the water, there aren't too many public boat launches.  I called the local harbor master a few times to get information about daily fees, permits and hours.

Then came the installation of the roof racks.  I believe I am good at following directions - I assembled my elliptical machine myself in February and I've built all those furniture pieces - like a dresser, bookshelf, etc.  I even installed an ice maker, changed a water line and I can change a light switch to a dimmer.  But I couldn't understand the directions for getting my roof rack on the car.  I got as far as assembling the cross bars with the towers.  I found a somewhat local Rack&Go that will install it - so I did that Memorial Day weekend, when it wasn't raining.  Rack & Go was fantastic.  They charged $25 per 15 minutes (I didn't know this until I paid, and was happy, I expected it to be more).  I drove the car around the back so they could work, and then I walked through the shopping center across the street for 45 minutes.  When I got back they weren't done, so I just hung out inside.  While there I also had them install the kayak carrier and locks. At least I felt confident that the rack was installed properly.  They were really nice and helpful.

The only downside with the Big Stack Kayak carrier when not in use is that while driving with the sunroof open, there is noise/wind resistance, but I don't hear it when the sunroof is closed so it isn't a big deal...and of course it is worth it provided I use it a lot.

There is one other 'problem' for me.  I am not strong enough to put a kayak on the car by myself.  So even after all this was done, I couldn't go kayaking alone since I I had no way to transport it.  So, I might still keep a kayak at the harbor for $150 for the season, I am going to get the application this week.  Time to start enjoying the summer!

A decision...roof rack or moor the kayaks

After carefully weighing my options for the kayaks, I finally made a purchase.

My choice was between a roof rack or mooring my kayak in the water.  The mooring was $150 each kayak for the season.

Last week when I was searching roof racks, I narrowed it down to the two most known brands:  Thule and Yakima.  Unfortunately the Thule would run me $724.75.  I don't have that kind of money.

Yakima's website allowed me to put my car information in, and it told me what kind of rack I would need along with all the components.  It was fantastic, and super user friendly.  Yakima quoted me $483 plus tax.  Better than the Thule, but still a bit more than I'd like to spend. So I started looking at other website that offered this brand.

Amazon came in at $410.24 plus taxes..and maybe shipping depending on who was selling me the item, if not amazon.  OK,  so now it is an easier decision...$300 for a few months or $410 for years.  But could I do better?

I am a member or Ebates.  So I put in "yakima" to see what sites maybe I could get some money back.  A few sites offered Yakima products, so I built my system at REI, Moosejaw and Rakuten.

REI the products came to $506 + tax + free shipping + 2.5% cash back ($12) .  If you are an REI member, you'd get quite a bit back from them in your account at the end of the year.

The rakuten order totaled $403.60 + tax + $15 shipping (for the cross bars, since it was from an outside seller) and 5% cash back ($20).

Moosejaw the pieces totaled $434.70 with free shipping and 5% cash back ($21), but I found out from this website that Yakima was offering a rebate.  If you spend $300 then you get $30 rebate, $400 a $40 rebate and $500 a $50 rebate.  The rebate is valid for authorized retailers (Amazon, backcountry, rack & go, REI, Sun & Ski among others and 'other').  Of course REI was out because it was expensive. Rakuten and Moosejaw was out because they weren't on the list...and I was too nervous to select "other" in case it was not a valid store.

Turns out that Sun & Ski is part of Ebates AND they had their own 30% off  sale on Yakima products.  The total for the same 5 components totaled $362.18 after their sale + tax + free ground shipping since the order was over $75.  Plus I got 4% cash back ($14) and still qualified for the $30 rebate.  So figure it was $318 + tax....just a bit more than it would have been to moor the two kayaks at the harbor for 1 season.  Easy decision...buy a rack, which would allow me the flexibility to go to other areas to kayak (I signed up for a kayak meetup group).

The five components for me included a system (since I have a naked car):  towers, cross bars and clips.  Then of course the rack for the kayak, I chose the Big Stack so I can carry two - four.  I can't wait for the roof rack system to come so I can start using the kayaks.

I'll write a review when I assemble it and use it.

the big roof rack decision

The only thing on my mind yesterday & today is how to transport my two kayaks.  I can either spend $150 each to moor them in the water near me or I can buy a roof rack and the kayak accessory thing - but that is nearing like $600, and well, I don't have that kind of money right now. I know the roof rack is more economical in the long run - provided I keep the kayaks for 2 summers and of course I can then go where ever, not just near where I live.  And later on, I can add more pieces to it like a luggage thing, cargo, bike rack, etc.

I read a bunch of blogs about what people think are the best, and it really varies so much.  I looked a the 'big' websites for sporting good: REI, EMS, Thule, Yakima, Dicks Sporting Goods, Sports Authority.  I even checked Amazon and Ebay just to get a full idea.  I know I need one that will fit two kayaks so that is one easy decision...but I am so completely confused otherwise.

And really, can I even manage to put roof racks on my car by myself? Probably, but it would take a while - I'd rather pay someone to make sure it is done right...but again that is money.

If any of you out there tell me what you have and if you like it, that might be helpful.  I have a small little car, which is good as in that I won't have to stretch too much or use a step stool to touch the top.

When I get one...I'll write about it, but until then...send me ideas.

A new hobby?

A few posts ago I mentioned I was going to need something to do to keep busy and to help get over ManFriend.  I was thinking, I live near the water and I am not taking advantage of it, and I should because who knows how much linger I'll live around here.

I also thought that I like to spend time outside, well minus the bugs. And I love water. 

Do you see where I am going?

I bought a kayak. 

I just hope I can find other people to do it with occasionally, I don't mind alone sometimes, but sometimes others make it more fun.

I hope this is what will get me out of my funk.  And this weekend I am going to buy the accessories, and who doesn't live that?

TV cutback

I know I am healing because I am not as interested in TV anymore.  When I moved back to NY 5 years ago, I started to watch a lot of TV. It became my thing to do to help me escape my sad reality.  I was watching shows that were decent, but that I didn't love.

This past week, I am flipping through my DVR and I watched everything I wanted to.  All the rest were...eh...I hit play, but then after 15 minutes just deleted the show. I am just not into it anymore. 

TV is becoming less interesting...and I have to wonder if it is because I like drama, action & comedy. However, the action shows are way to unrealistic. I live in the NY Metro area; I am in NYC 5 days a week. I have NEVER seen a shoot-out , a high speed chase, or any of the crazy things that occur on a regular basis on TV that you would think is normal.

That makes me feel great. I feel like things are starting to actually come together, just like I don't need my apartment, I don't need those shows anymore. Of course I'll stick with my favorites (the Middle, Big Bang Theory, How I Met Your Mother, Castle, NCIS, and I am still not 100% sure of Two & a Half Men).

Knitting Therapy

After the breakup with SI, I was a zombie. One of my mom's friends thought it would be helpful if I learned how to knit.  I didn't buy it, but I figured I had all this new time on my hands.

I met with her a few times.  I learned how to hold knitting needles and move my hands. I picked a yarn.  It was insanely frustrating that I didn't get it for a long time.  I give the lady so much credit for having so much patience with me.  I'd try to knit on my own with out her reminding me what to do - and I'd loose or add stitches and my simple scarf would be insanely crooked.  For a while she'd take the lines out so I can redo them, but the same thing kept happening.  I decide to keep going, so then when I was on my next one, I could compare and see my progress.

Knitting was an amazing kind of therapy, especially when it is new to you.  It really keeps your mind from wondering on what happened to you - and keeps you so focused on getting the stitches right.  I was shocked with how well it distracted me.  I started to absorb knitting like water - I became addicted to it for a while just to keep my mind from thinking about SI and to stop me from the constant crying. 

It took a while before I became a bit decent at knitting - with a scarf that was straight.  At some point I learned how to purl (the opposite of a knit stitch).  And I had hopes of doing the S stitch - but at that time, my knitting slowed down so much, that by not doing it regularly I couldn't remember. I had also hoped to learn with circular needles to make a hat, but I didn't and my self-teaching was horrendous.  I don't have too much desire to knit sweaters or blankets or socks - seems like a big project, but a scarf I can handle.  I don't know how to read a pattern and I don't know how to guess how many stitches to cast on for a scarf of a certain yarn thickness nor do I know what needles to use with the yarn thickness - I just wing it, and everything has come out fine.  I am doing it for my own personal use, and  they are just scarves so it is really easy - so to me it doesn't matter if the needle size is slightly wrong.

I have made scarves for a few people I know for a holiday gift.  My grandmother loved the scarf so much that she enlisted me this year to knit for the needy.  I haven't picked up knitting needles in a year and last year I just made the one scarf...but I was happy to see that the basic knitting stitch came right back to me.  I am getting a really late start of knitting for her since I have been pre-occupied with moving, but since I am a bit faster now, I hope that each scarf will take about 3-4 hours and I can do that as I watch tv.

Anyway, my advice to you this week is that if you are depressed, try to knit.  They wouldn't be publishing all those fiction books based on knitting if knitting didn't really have a therapeutic side.  [I read the knitting circle and knitting under the influence - but there are plenty more].  Give it a try, see how it takes all of your focus away from your thoughts.

Becoming a Starbucks Groupie

While visiting my friend in Oregon, I had some free time in town while she worked.  In these two days, I became a Starbucks girl.  This should be a shock to you since 1) I don't drink coffee (or any caffeine) and 2) I never really 'got it' the interest in sitting in a place on a computer or reading a book for extended periods of time.  Why does one need to do this?  I am more comfortable at home, in my own place.  I can run into these establishments to get a drink or to catch up with a friend. In fact I meet my life coach in a Starbucks - and I leave there every time smelling like coffee.

But now I get 'it'.   Not being from the area, and not having room in my suitcase to shop and buy items from town...I needed a place to go and just kill time.  I borrowed her laptop, bought a Vent drink for $3.15- and sat there for at least two hours.  I got my monies worth of time.  I could have stayed longer but what to do when you have to use the restroom after drinking so much and when you are alone? If I am going to pack up all my stuff...I don't want to have to sit back down.  And being from a city...I don't trust people enough to leave my valuables behind for 5 minutes.  My intentions the first day was just to catch up with some personal email and maybe write a blog since all those 'truth' ones get boring.  But the second day I wanted to do a little job searching.  Unfortunately, I kept getting sidetracked and worked another blog or two, but I did do some looking around.

I still feel a little out of place, and a little guilty about taking up space, but since it isn't overly packed and no one new needs my seat...it isn't so bad.  I am definitely not going to be making a habit of this, but it works for what I need it to.  Now if only I can find a few more drinks I like besides the hot chocolate (which probably does have caffeine) and the Passion Fruit Iced Tea Unsweetened...I'd be all set.

Why I like Usher



source

 I remember back in high school, I heard one of Usher's songs, but I didn't become 'addicted' to his beat until his 1997 album - with "you make me wanna".  Over the years, a few songs on his albums have caught my attention.  This past year I am really 'diggin' some of his music.  When a song comes on, I notice I just start bouncing in my seat.

One of my favorite songs is "Yeah", it just gets me going and that hasn't stopped since "More". 

He seems like such a down to Earth guy and his enthusiastic style is contagious; you can tell that he is passionate about his work.

My reading goes digital

I have shared with you that I love Groupon. It is truly a great site to save a little money on restaurants, gifts and activities that it becomes addicting.

A long time ago, I posted about my purchasing a Roomba vacuum from a website Woot.  Woot is similar in that they offer one deal a day for a product - and most of the time if it is electronic, it is factory refurbished stuff.  Which is totally fine with me.  I save some money and I get something that I might not normally splurge on.  Woot had the Barnes & Noble Nook for sale, and I didn't have to think twice about getting one.  In fact, I was seriously contemplating getting two, because it still would have been cheaper than one. I've been debating for so long if I should convert to an e-reader since I read a lot and carrying big books to work everyday can be exhausting, it was a no brainer decision.  

My main concern with this amazing little product was that I would have to spend money instead of going to the library.  Libraries are amazing - and I have mentioned before why more people should take advantage of the services.  Anyway - I know some books copyrights have expired and free books are offered.  Additionally, Barnes & Noble has a program that if you are in the store you can download a book - I haven't done this yet, but I think it might be a specific book for the week or month. 

My county libraries also offers electronic versions of some books.  Just like in Inspector Gadget, the books will self destruct in two weeks.  I have to do more research to find out what their selection is like, but I don't tend to read books more than once, so borrowing is just as fantastic when I know that I will finish a book quickly.  Since they self destruct, there is no late fee either! 

This great gadget will allow me to read some books that I wanted to read but just didn't want to carry around.  Some e-books are also super cheap at $0.99 which is less than some of my late fees at the library now that they went from $0.10 cents to $0.25 cents per day; making purchasing some books a better option for me.  When I go on vacation and I want to read a new book, I think I can handle the few books I can buy at full e-book price or enjoy the feel of paper pages and flipping works too.

I am looking forward to picking out a cover for my nook and will write a review once I've played around with it a few times and understand it better.

Happy Blog-Anniversary to me...

Today marks ONE YEAR since my first blog post!  Now 200 posts later, I feel like I have been doing this so much longer. 

Sometimes I have so much to say, other times, nothing.  I get all these great ideas when I am in bed or walking to work, but then can't for the life of me remember what they are when I get a few minutes to type it all out.

I am so thankful for my devoted ELEVEN followers and the few you that read anonymously.  I have had an interesting year, and you were right there every step of the way.  I hope that this coming year will be more interesting reading for you (and a more interesting life for me) and that perhaps I can double my following.

It has been an interesting journey and experience, and I have become somewhat addicted to blogger - not only trying to blog regularly but reading about other peoples lives/experiences as well.

Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you.    :)

A happy scrapper

After almost a year, I realized I have not told you what kinds of things I do in my free time.  So today I will tell you about one of my hobbies.  I scrapbook.

About 7 years ago, my sister hosted a creative memories scrapbooking party.  I really liked it and was hooked.  I made two chronological scrapbooks about mine & SIs dating life (things we did together, random pictures with songs, etc).  When I thought we were getting back together, I made an ABCs of love scrapbook (which was AWESOME) - but that little shitter was away in Disney with the mistress when telling me we'd be together by New Years.  Waste of time that album, but I will definitely do a similar one for my future man. 

Anyway, I really loved scrapbooking.  At some point I realized how much money I was spending, and decided to become a CM consultant.  I wasn't really looking to host parties (I only did 2) but I wanted to be able to buy things for me.  I have been doing it about 5 years....and keep saying I need to give it up.  I must place a $X specific order every rolling 3 months.  It gets expensive considering I am already broke. 
So I get together with 4 - 6 ladies one night a month from 7 - midnight and we scrapbook.  Then every few months we (about 8-10 ladies)  try to do an all day event, such as yesterday when we got together from 10 am - 8pm.  I served lunch and dinner and it is a great time to catch up with friends and get some scrapbooking work done.

Here are some pictures of some of my favorite pages:

 

Pot Luck Ideas

Last  year a few of my mom's friends and family friends decided to get together for dinner.   Our first dinner was ordered in.  We had such a great time, that we wanted to schedule something every month, and decided to start a potluck so it wouldn't be so expensive and so one person didn't have to make a huge dinner.  A year and a half later it has been a success!  Of course we miss months, but that happens with every one's schedules.  We try to rotate the food: Main Courses, Sides, Dessert, Drinks.  But since there are generally 6-9 of us, there is always more than enough food.

I wish I had thought about keeping a log of the theme's we picked and will be better going forward.

August 2009 - Tapas (I made potatoes with pink sauce and hot spicy shrimp)
September 2009 - Pie (I made a deep dish pizza)
October 2009 - One Pot/Pan Dishes (I made an Oreo ice cream cake)
November 2009 - Childhood Favorites (I made mac & cheese)December 2009 - Cookie Swap - we made cookies instead of having a regular potluck


January 2010 - Breakfast (we went to the diner)

March 2010 - ? I don't remember
April 2010 - Italian
May 2010 - BBQ
June, July & August we didn't get together
September 2010 - Light Summer Fare
October 2010 - Fall Harvest (I made pumpkin cheesecake)
November 2010 - Soup & Sandwich

I like having a theme.  It really helps me try to be either creative or try something new.  In fact, I encourage people in our group to try new things - who cares if it comes out gross - at least you tried...and there is always plenty of food.

Yeah, the school year begins!

Today, the school year begins again (by me).  While I do not have children, I look forward to this time of year because it means that NEW TV will soon be starting.  Although, the gal living above me is a teacher and we were up at THREE THIRTY this morning...I can't wait for the sound insulation guy to get back to me - but that is a different story.

I know that is an unbelievably sad statement, but I look forward to watching NEW tv.  I have basic cable, so my tv viewing options in the summer is slim and I end up watching things I don't really enjoy just to watch something.  I started to write down what shows will be on what days in what time slots and are taking notice of brand new shows that can fill the voids of shows that ended (lost, 24, etc).  Then I get to add the shows to my DVR so they will record, and then I will be overwhelmed with TV on those early dark nights where I do not want to leave the house.

So, what will I be recording? (This is where you may start saying prayers that I will find my prince charming so I can get out of the house...and not watch so much TV).  Don't forget fast fowarding commericals will take about 1/3 of the time off :)   If you watch a great new show (on basic tv)...tell me about it, so I can check it out.

key - I am not sure about this one yet...I'll watch one and then decide.  A favorite.  Watched last year, but might not watch again this year

Monday -
8pm - How I Met Your Mother (CBS)
9pm - 2 1/2 Men (CBS)
9pm - The Event (NBC)
10pm - Castle (ABC)

Tuesday -
8pm - NCIS (CBS)
8pm - Glee (FOX)
9pm - NCIS LA (CBS)
9pm - Raising Hope (Fox)
9:30pm - Running Wilde (Fox)

Wednesday -
8pm - Survivor (CBS)
8pm - The Middle (ABC)
8:30pm - Better with You (ABC)
9pm - Modern Family (ABC)
9pm - Hell's Kitchen (FOX)
9:30pm - Cougar Town (ABC)

Thursday -
8pm - The Big Bang Theory (CBS)
9pm - Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
9pm - Fringe (FOX)
10pm - Private Practice (ABC)

Friday -

Saturday -

Sunday -
8pm - Amazing Race (CBS)
9pm - Desperate Housewives (ABC) 

solace in solitare

Hi, my name is Denise, and I am an addict. A spider solitaire addict that is. First let's talk about why this is so wrong for me. I HATE SPIDERS or all bugs for that matter.

My work computer (something older) and my home computer (windows 7) surprisingly have different versions of spider solitaire. At work I can not change my deck - I am stuck looking at cards with spiders on them :( and I can't undo more than what cards were dealt in a round. So playing from home is more ideal since I can undo the whole deck and essentially start each game from the beginning and it count only as one game - but honestly...I play a lot more at work.

I do not play for the best score, but just to win. I keep saying the score will matter more to me when I get better...but so far it hasn't. I usually play on medium, I've only played on hard two or three times - but did win my first game at that.

So, going back - I am an addict. In the summer it is so much worse. Work is slow so I sit at my desk and I play a game or two before I start my 'real' work. I usually close out when I win. But then at lunch I'll open it up again and start over. And throughout the day I open it when I am stressed or when I need a break, etc. Today I've played about 5 or 6 games. I won one earlier today - but reopened again to win another two. It is still early...so I may have to play a little later too.

If you haven't tried this game yet you should. It really gets you thinking. The cards are laid out in rows of 10. Simply put cards in numerical order from King to Ace. You can put the cards on any color - but be aware that to finish a sequence, the cards must be in the same suit. Medium uses two suits and hard uses all four & easy is just one (not much of a challenge). If you get stuck you can hit Ctrl M and it will show you possible moves. Ctrl Z is undo (but these are also on the drop down menu).

Seeing the fireworks when you win is always such a happy thing :) Good luck.