Irwin the Roo.

Who is red, born in Oklahoma, going through a legal battle, has his own Facebook page and can hop?

Irwin the Kangaroo.

Who is crazy, lives in Oklahoman and human? Irwin's mom. You can read the full story hear: http://irwinkangaroo.com/

My first encounter with Irwin was when he was featured in the Daily Oklahoman. I had to cut his picture out of the paper and hang it at my desk. No matter how the day's going, this ridiculous kangaroo always makes me laugh.

Meet Irwin:

Um is anyone else laughing? Only in Oklahoma.

Lost.

Don't even ask where I have been, but I think I am back. Here's a try at a blog post. "A TRY," I said.

Something happened this past weekend. I was duped by a sales person. I normally do not listen to sales people when they try to sale me stuff, because I know they are only trying to make a buck and do not know what I need to be wearing.

Here's how this all went down- I went back to my Native Land this past weekend. Since moving back to OK, I have lost all fashion sense. Instead of being inspired by top designer's store windows and the best dressed women of Dallas, I now have Target, Gap and JCrew to get my inspiration from. The streets of Oklahoma are filled with OU, OSU and Thunder t-shirts. The only fashion inspiration I receive is from magazines and the internet. Gone are the days of walking around Northpark feeling renewed and inspired.

I was trying on clothes and lost all confidence on whether or not something looked good- it got so bad, I let 2 sales people in my dressing room. They told me that the items of clothing I was trying on were flying off the shelf and they couldn't keep them in stock. SOLD. I bought everything I had on, because I believed the idiots when they told me that the items were flying off the shelf.

After I left the mall, I started having a little bit of buyer's remorse and was talking to our friend Linny about what the sales people said. Having worked retail before, she bluntly told me that she once sold 6 "pea green jackets" in a day, because she used that same line. "We can't keep these in stock; everyone loves them." I was had at the mall on Saturday. However, I am happy I made my choices, but I am going to have to come to my senses and regain my shopping confidence.

I would like to recommend a new jean brand to all the ladies in the house. Well, it's probably not new, but new to me. And yes, the sales person talked me into them, too. Who have I become? DL 1961. It has some sort of 4-way stretch that helps them not to stretch out in all of the wrong places- like the butt and knees etc. I have had them on since 7:30 and still fit just like they did this morning. I am loving it. However, today, I could use the waistline stretching just an inch or too.



So it was another successful weekend, and I will continue to search for my fashion sense.

Is it strange, the theme song that was going on in my head all weekend was Madonna's "This Used to be My Playground?" Sicks me out too! I kept this one on the DL.

Ken and Yoko

Things are going pretty well for me these days.  The sun is shining, Paul is biting me less, and I have gotten a lot of sleep lately, which is always nice.  Last week I finally got to see Ken Jennings play on Jeopardy!.  And, on Friday night, YOKO ONO decided to follow me on Twitter. 

I signed up for Twitter on Thursday evening after a few glasses of red wine (don't let the name of the blog fool you, we drink all kinds) at Cosmo's in celebration of Bunny's birthday.  The first person I decided to follow, Ken Jennings, duh.  After my love affair with Watson began last Monday, it was only fitting that I chose my favorite human Jeopardy! contestant of all time.  Right?  Watson blew me away last week.  I could go on and on about him, but you have probably heard enough.  Even though he can answer almost anything, and will probably revolutionize the organization of the massive amounts of information that we humans put out into the world every day, I still think Ken is even more impressive.  Ken Jennings is the poster child for cool nerds.  He is funny, clearly super smart, and not a jerk about it at all.  Considering I fancy myself to fall into that category (hello wizard obsession), I just love watching him play.  He makes me giddy.  Regretfully, I missed his winning streak back in 2004 because I was studying abroad.  So, last week was an extra special treat. 

After Ken, I picked Yoko.  She was talking about peace and love, and you know, I decided to give it a chance.  I love John Lennon with all my heart.  And, although it is contrary to how most people feel, I also love Yoko.  I don't think she was bad for him; I don't think he ever could have been quite that kind of a match with anyone else.  She is an inspiring woman.  About twelve hours after I started following her, she asked if she could follow me.  I understand this is probably just some bonus for choosing her second on Twitter, but I don't care.  I love her even more now!!

So thanks to Ken and Yoko for making last week so great for me.  With a trip to Chicago planned for this weekend, I imagine this one will be pretty spectacular as well.  I hope all of you are fighting off your case of the Mondays with gusto by remembering the small things that make life so fun. 

I'm in a great mood today,
SES

#ItsBeenTooLong

Where have you been? No, it's not where have I been. Where have you been? So my resolution to eat less, blog more is not really working out, but I have decided to give it another whirl. A lot of stuff has been going on, and I have not had time to blog. I will catch you up on the last couple of months.

Twas New Year's Day, and I arrived back to my parents house (roomies!) from a wonderful weekend in Austin. My mom said that her and my dad found the cutest house in the city and we should go drive by. I was in the car before she could finish her sentence. It's safe to say I fell in love at first sight. We went to look at the house a week later, and when we left, I said, "I am going to live there. I don't care if you don't like it." (My roomie went to the showing with me.)

A week later, I thought it wasn't going to happen, as the house was built in the 50's, and I was unsure if the electric was up to par. We called an electrician to go take a look, and the housing got a passing grade. And here I am now. I made an offer on the house January 23rd, we went back in forth a few times and the owner accepted the offer January 24th.

It all happened so fast, but I am going to be a homeowner next Friday, February 25th. I reference this way too much, but it's a definite Jessie Spano moment for me. "I am so excited, I am so excited, I am so scared!"

I am excited to get out on myown again. I am excited about owning my first house. I am excited about getting my social life back and getting a Shih-Tzu, named Muffy Le. But I can't deny I am a little nervous about buying groceries again, doing my own laundry and keeping up a house. It's been real living at home again.

All I can think about is getting the keys and popping a bottle of champagne.

For the past month, my weekends have been spent planning the decor of the house. Heck, I started planning the night I drove by the house! To make this post a little relevant, I will show you one of my favorite things I have purchased so far. I found this amazing coffee table at Wisteria. It was a little out of my price range, but I found it's mini me at World Market.

Introducing my new coffee table on wheels! It's about $600 at Wisteria, and you can get a copy of it at World Market for $200. I have a black belt in bargain hunting. I am concerned that a night of wine might turn into me getting on the coffee table and getting wheeled around the house. Might even wear the Today Show gown.

Feels good to be back and let you know what I have been up to! Just buying a first home.

A Starry Day

We are celebrating yet another WWandGS birthday today.  That's right dear readers, today marks the 28th anniversary of the birth of Starla/Rhonda Le.  Please take a moment today to reach out to her via Facebook, text message, phone, mail, email, or just drop by her house, and wish her a very very happy birthday!  Without our dear Rhonda all of our parties would have less flair, our lives would have less laughter, and our bar tabs would include far fewer appletinis.  I believe I speak for everyone who knows and loves you when I say this, Rhonnie, you are one of a kind!  I love you and I wish you the happiest of birthdays that the world has ever known!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Paul Peanut Potter Smith

On this day, two years ago (or 14 depending on who you are talking to), Paul Peanut Potter Smith, nee Peanut, was born in Tennessee.  He graced Dallas with his presence in late January of last year, courtesy of his Aunt Ashley Smith.  He is a stay at home dog, living off of his mom, but he doesn't let that get him down since there are very few positions open for canines in this economy and the entertainment industry in Dallas is dwindling.  I often tell him that if we lived in LA, he'd  have to contribute to the mortgage, but I let it slide since I know how much he enjoys just laying around all day and barking at nothing.  I asked him to give me a brief synopsis of things that he has grown to like and dislike over his past two years in existence.  He wasn't very amenable to this at first, since English is his second language he was worried that he would get some of the words wrong, but with my help he came up with the following:

Likes: CHEESE (Queso), CHICKEN, Rawhide, Cuddling, SLEEPING, Obama, Holiday Themed Toys, The Uptown Dog Lofts, My Friend Pepper, My "Aunts" (especially LIZ), Running, Wizards of Waverly Place, Paul McCartney, OU Sooners, Showing my Teeth, BEING STINKY, and Licking ANYTHING.

Dislikes: SWEATERS, Lady Gaga, Food without Cheese, People Touching Me, Making New Friends, Rain, Snow, Cold Weather, Following the Rules (sometimes), UNCLE JOHN, Lord Voldemort, Mac Brown, Dentists, Being Quiet, My Nickname "Pepito," and Lettuce.

 

 Sometimes I am really sweet.

 Sometimes I am not so sweet.

 Sometimes I am really funny.

 Sometimes I pass out.

And, I always do what I want.

Happy birthday PPPS, you are a very special little nugget,

Love SES

28 Years Ago Today, A Wizzard Was Born.

I know, I know... where have I been? Never fear, White Wine & Glow Sticks will be making a full comeback, and it's going to be better than ever in 2011.

I haven't had much to say... I mean, Snookie woke up in a trash can and thinks a good night is when she doesn't black out. Normal. Montel Williams was arrested at the airport for pot... Southwest Airlines changed their points system... See? I am speechless these days.

UNTIL NOW... I HAVE BREAKING NEWS:

Our favorite attorney, friend, wizzard, bookworm and "know it all" is a year older today. Without further ado, I would like to turn your attention to the one and only SARAH SMITH. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH!

Hope year #28 is the best year yet. Use your birthday magic powers wisely tonight and try to make it home at a decent hour. Nothing normal happens after 2am. Plus, you need to work on your "late night recipes." We will need to go to press with the book soon!

And folks, W.W.A.G.S. is coming to a cubicle near you with glowing reading material soon. Until then, drink lots of wine.

P.S. If you see this attorney on the streets tonight, buy her a drink! Happy Birthday! Love you S.E.S., J.D.

Neighbors

Yesterday I began my very lovely evening with dinner and drinks with several of my lovely friends at Vickery Park.  In case you are curious, which I reckon you are not, I had the mussels.  They were, in fact, very tasty.  I arrived back at home around 9:30 pm, when I promptly posted up on the couch with Paul to watch the season premiere of Greek.  At about 10:30, I took little Paul out to potty.  As I am standing there coaxing him to do his business, I hear a woman yelling, well almost screaming, some sort of nonsense from a distance.  At this point, I was a little cold, and a little nervous that I was about to meet some crazies in the parking lot, so I ran back upstairs and locked the doors.  (Sidenote: I have not been sleeping well for days because from time to time I am the victim of paranoia and I get nervous in the dark so I have to sleep with all the lights on.  Yes, friends, I am afraid of the dark.) 

So, It wasn't until almost four hours later, at 2:49am that I was jolted out of my slumber by several idiots yelling right outside my window.  If you know me at all, you know I am certifiably crazy when I am woken up, so I was not too happy about this.  Paul was pacing back and forth, so confused about what was going on.  I was half asleep and bitchy.  It was sooo early, yet so late.  So I lay there for a bit just listening to the bull shit going on outside.  I realized I should probably not get involved, just in case there was something violent going on down there.  So, I just did the most effective thing I could, and hoped it would go away.  About 15 minutes later, someone yelled at the idiots to shut up.  About ten minutes after that, they did.  This morning when I took Paul out there was trash all over the parking lot.  I'm talking at least 7 Big Mac containers and McDonald's cups.  Ketchup was everywhere.  So, I'm thinking that some assholes had a huge party that started to get rowdy around the time I heard that lady screaming and ended with a blow out in the parking lot with a Mickey D's food fight at 2:49am.  I would be lying if I said this was the first time I heard this.  It happened once before this fall. 

I love my neighbors.  I love to chat with them about our Christmas decor, the new paint on our units, gardening, our pets, and the weather.  I really enjoy seeing them on a daily basis.  But, if I figure out who caused that raucous outside my window last night, they are going down.  I'm talking no smiles from me when I pass them on my way to the dumpster.  Seriously, who does that on a Tuesday? 

Oh wait, I did...about six years ago in Norman, Oklahoma and about four years ago at the Gables.  My how the times have changed. 

I just love being old.

SES

December in Pictures

 On the beach in Miami.

 The happy couple.

 Macy with the Freedom of the Seas in St. Maarten.

 Magan's Bay, St. Thomas.

 From Left: Sheri, Macy, Ashley, Mike, Katy, Curtis, Frank, Betsy, and Sarah at the Schooner Bar in matching PJs on Christmas Eve.

Our last night on the cruise, wouldn't be complete without a bunny :) 

Merry Christmas, and Happy Early Easter.

For additional pictures and information about the Smith/Engelbrecht family cruise, please visit joyridersforjesus.blogspot.com

Love, SES

December in Words

December has been a month to remember.  It began with a few days in San Antonio to learn about title and to visit my favorite San Antonians, Maggie, Rusty, and the little Bug, Carter Grace.  Immediately following, I made an 18 hour run to Oklahoma for a baby shower for the soon to grace our presence Lottie White, which was cut short by a tire blow out in my rented Chevy Malibu.  Lucky for me, cute Officer Kennedy from the OKCPD was there to save the day and a Sooner fan at Firestone rushed my repair right on through so that I could make it back in time for the game.  After tea, cake, hugs, and kisses with some of my favorite people at the shower, I was back on the road to Dallas to make it to Jerry World by 5:30 pm just in time for a beer and some Sooner Magic against Nebraska, one last time.  Fast forward to the following Friday...off to Miami for the wedding of two of the most wonderful people I know, Lauren Gibson and Matias Bilbao.  A lovely rehearsal dinner was capped off with a late night in South Beach and the best cocktail I have ever had - some thyme and lemon concoction that I just could not get enough of.  The next day brought room service for breakfast with Ninny and Pina Colodas in the sun with the girls and the boys, followed by what has to be one of the most memorable weddings, and receptions, I have ever been to.  Can anyone top a full blown dance circle before the main course was served?  I don't think so.  The next morning, back to the airport with Kendall, Ninny, and Lindsey.  Chaos almost killed me, but Paul was waiting for me back in Dallas so I made it through.  Fast forward again to the following Friday...SFCP madness ensued.  The next day, off to Orlando to meet my favorite people in the world - Curtis, Ashley, Mike, Sheri, Frank, Betsy, Katy, and Macy, for what amounted to the best Christmas on record...

7 nights on the Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas

I danced on the promenade, in the piano bar, in my room, on the dance floor, at the casino, and on a catamaran.  Played put put, played in the kiddie pool, decorated gingerbread houses, played blackjack, craps, roulette, and trivia, went to the library, dove into the book return, ate steak, ate more steak, ate lobster, ate fish, ate johnny rockets, ate pizza, ate more pizza, and ate a crepe.  Drank wine/pina colodas/beer/vodka in our room, in the dining room, at the top of the ship, at the front of the ship, at the casino, at the piano bar, in st. maarten, in st. thomas, and in the library. Went to Midnight Mass, saw an ice skating show, did the bunny hop, sang Oklahoma AT THE TOP OF MY LUNGS, met a very nice blackjack dealer from South Africa, accepted a marriage proposal from said dealer, arranged my dowry with my dad, and took a yoga class.  Got a tan, got a sunburn, got a hangover.  Slept like a baby.  Slept like a kid on Christmas Eve (oh wait, that was on Christmas Eve).  Played, and fell, in the waves at St. Thomas and St. Maarten, and rocked, and fell, with the waves on the ship.  Bought presents, received presents, gave presents, decorated stockings, Christmas trees, our state room, and braided Santa's beard.  Sang carols, sang the Beatles, sang Frank Sinatra, sang Elton John, and sang Oklahoma (see above).  Lost money, won money, lost more money, didn't care because I was flirting with aforementioned blackjack dealer.  Gambled with my dad, partied with Uncle Mike, speculated about the fuel consumption of the ship with Curtis, made the rounds with Ashley, shopped with my mom (and for her), laughed with Aunt Sheri (and at her), played with Macy, danced with Katy, took pictures, made memories, and really and truly Joyrode for Jesus...and had the very best time of my life just spending time with my family, enjoying the Christmas spirit, and celebrating the true reason for the season :)

I returned home on Sunday to sea legs and the flu.  But, I'm back in business, and I still have one day left to make merry in December.  Off to Austin tomorrow for NYE 2010.  As evidenced by the last thirty days, it should be, no doubt, quite an eventful affair.

Hope your holidays were as happy as mine, and happy new year to you all!

SES

It's Christmas Time in the City...

Here is a glimpse at the real life "hustle/bustle." I can't get this image to move down, but here is the small crowd in Macy's. I get hot just thinking about it. You can't see the line Russ!

Here's my Review:

Trip Advisor! Last weekend, I went to NYC. There is something to be said about that city during Christmas time- it's almost magical. Here is a short recap of my weekend:

Thursday:

I never thought I had a "morning problem," but catching a 6am flight was torture. Yes, it got us to New York earlier, but it took lots of caffeine to keep me going all day. Our day started out at Serendipity. I know, it's a cliche tourist spot, but it's our tradition. We don't even get the Frozen Hot Chocolate! It was well outfitted with Christmas decor and very charming. From here, we hit the streets to shop and sight see. Our adventures lasted throughout the night. Literally. It was about 8pm and we had been walking all day and decided it was time for dinner. With shopping bags in hand, we headed to the Lincoln Center area. I have always wanted to see the Lincoln Center lit up, because this picture is used in so many movies. Well, I finally got my chance. I built it up in my head.

We went to a Mexican restaurant nearby called Rosa Mexicano. It was delicious but reminded me a lot of Dos Caminos. One of them had to rip the other off. Did I mention my mother and I had to change shoes? Yes. She was wearing cute little loafers and I had on uggs. Note to self, leave your cute shoes at home. After dinner, we got a Taste-D-Lite and headed back to the hotel.

Friday:

Oops I did it again. Friday morning I headed to the Today show to see my friends. They were all there except Al, and the crowd was so large I had no chance of making a TV debut. I stood in the freezing cold for about 30 minutes thinking to myself... WTF am I doing. Tons of Tweens and ME. But I saw my friends Matt & Meredith, so it was well worth it.

Friday day, we shopped all day long. I think I was stuck in a Macy's for 3 hours. Their Macy's has much more to often- everything from Gucci to Chanel! It's crazy how much more high-end their store is. Friday afternoon we took a pit break to eat at DBGB Kitchen. (Lower East Side) It was definitely one of those places that when you leave, you think, I would highly recommend.

We stopped by Eataly, which I had really been looking forward to- but I have 2 words...no 4 words: Amazing, but TOTAL CHAOS. It was like Eatzi's on massive steroids.

Our night took us to Broadway to see Buddy the Elf. One of my favorite movies brought to life. It did not disappoint AND they had sippy cups for your wine. After Broadway, we picked up a slice of pizza and called it a night.

Saturday:

Saturday started out just like Friday- on to more shopping. For lunch, we somehow ended up at Rockefellar Center. Well, I know how- we went for me to look to see if they had this J Crew belt and I got all "Hangry" (My new word for when I get hungry and angry) and I needed nourishment fast. We went to a cafe in the building. It fit the bill, and I got to watch the tourist hot spot - the ice skating rink.

I cannot tell a lie- I did make a special stop by "Dash," the Kardashians store. There was a line out the door. I stopped to snap a picture and lost a glove. After I turned the corner, I realized I was Michael Jackson'ing it with my glove attire. Luckily when I went back to Dash- there laid my isotoner on the ground. Whew. It was too cold to go gloveless.

Saturday evening brought us to the Rockettes. I have seen them several times, but they never get old. They are NYC Christmas time. Thankfully, they let you have drinks in the auditorium, so it was a great time. From here, we went to Dos Caminos, because it's just my absolute favorite. Something about their white Sangria.

Sunday:

We had a 1pm flight, so we did not have much time in the city. Our morning was spent trying to snap my Christmas Card pic. Stay tuned!

Did I mention I am still thawing out from the cold? You'll have to forgive my non-exciting writing skills today, but hey, I tried. I wish I were still in NY. I love love love that city.... It's Christmastime in the City.....

Twas Thanksgiving Eve.

It's Thanksgiving Eve, do you have your pie made? If not, I have a last minute treat for you. It's as easy as 1,2,3. Literally. Everyone has their celebrities that they like. I seem to like some of the oddest ones: Elton John, Cher, Matt Lauer and Meredith Viera (I consider them celebs) and Kristen Chenoweth.

Did you know her real name is Kristi Chenoweth?! I think she is just so talented, but I must admit, sometimes her squeaky voice does get on my nerves. She is an Oklahoma native and carries a deep love for her home state. This makes me like her even more!

I was reading her book not to long ago, "A Little Bit Wicked," and came across this recipe. Strange that this biography had 2 recipes in it, but they got my attention. So here you go: Butter Finger Pie

Ingredients:

Graham Cracker Crust Pie (I bought the pre-made)

6 King Size Butterfingers

12-ounce container of Cool Whip

Steps:

Crush all of your butterfingers up. (I put mine in a plastic bag and rolled over with a rolling pin)

Once Butterfingers are crushed, mix them with the Cool Whip (all of the cool whip)

Once all mixed up, place all in pie pan

FREEZE the pie

SERVE with a smile

If Bart Simpson is at your Thanksgiving table, he'll be very thankful! "Don't lay a hand on my Butterfinger."

POTTER FRIDAY

In high school, I used to love to watch Rosie O'Donnell's afternoon talk show.  She was so funny, and liberal, and my dad hated her, so I thought it was kind of rebellious to watch her and laugh.  Plus, I loved A League of their Own back in those days, and as a result, I loved "Ro."  One afternoon, in the fall of my junior year, she had a British children's author on the show to promote the release of the third title in her series.  Rosie introduced JK Rowling to the crowd, and everyone erupted in applause.  I had never heard of her so I decided to pay attention to something else (probably my dog Abbey Road, may she rest in peace).  Jo and Rosie began to chat about the novels, and I couldn't figure out if this was a book about a real boy who pretended to be a wizard or a boy who really was a wizard.  Rosie was going on and on about how much she loved this "Harry Potter" and asked Jo if she would read a passage from the newest novel.  This was when I really started to pay attention.  I love hearing authors read their own work, so I dropped what I was doing and tuned in.  JK Rowling then opened the Prisoner of Azkaban and began to read from the scene where the dementors pay a visit to the Hogwarts Express and, in turn, meet Harry Potter (to this day, this remains one of my favorite scenes).  By the time she had finished I was fully mezmerized.  Two hours later, I had purchased my first copy of the Sorcerer's Stone.  (It was a paperback, and, in case you are wondering, I have since purchased two others: a hardback edition and a French translation).  Three hours after that, I started to read Harry Potter.  At first I still had my doubts.  I am going to be perfectly honest, I was still confused about where the story was going.  Back in this day and age, I had never even heard of Dumbledore before.  Just imagine picking up Harry Potter for the first time before the movies, the theme parks...before all of the hype...it was all completely new to me.  And, it was, for lack of a better word, magical.  By the time Harry made it to Hogwarts and was sorted into Gryffindor, I was fully and completely obsessed.

Eleven years have passed since I saw JK Rowling on Rosie.  A lot has changed (including Rosie).  Today, the novelty of Harry Potter is gone.  I know every character, every place, most of the spells, and how the story ends.  Nonetheless, last night at the Midnight premiere of the Deathly Hallows Part One, my heart was pounding as the movie opened with the meeting of the Death Eaters at Malfoy Manor.  I cried when certain sad things happened that I don't want to give away for those of you who I am still holding out will one day pick up the books.  I laughed at Fred, George, and Ron.  I clenched my fists and held my breath and even screamed a bit...on the inside.  Harry gets me every time, and the Deathly Hallows Part One was NO EXCEPTION.

With all of the books published, and only one movie premiere left, there isn't much left to discover in the amazing world of Harry Potter.  But, for me, there is still nothing better in the world than a day spent just enjoying the greatness that is Harry.  I may be hallucinating (I'm so tired today because I am an old woman who can't stay up past 11:00 pm on a weeknight), but I still feel the same magic I felt when I opened that first book at the recommendation of Rosie O'Donnell in 1999.  And, I am having yet another amazing day because of it.  Everyone, do yourself a favor and go see Deathly Hallows, or rent any HP movie, or better yet, start reading the books.  Rosie O'Donnell and I both promise, you will not regret it.

I love the boy who lived,

SES

Insurance

As a little Sarah, I didn't know much about the topic of insurance. I knew that when people asked what my dad did for a living, I was told to say "insurance." And that when my mom took me to the doctor they always asked for our "insurance." Well, over these past few weeks I have grown to love my insurance more than I ever thought I would. I have three types right now: home, health, and auto. My health is just fine, thankfully, because those problems are real problems, not "it's funny to blog about them" problems. The home and the auto, however, are not fine, and are very happy to be insured right now.

The home is suffering from a damaged bathroom sub floor. The source of this damage was a leaking AC that was fixed in early October, but left a lovely little reminder known as: water damage. The story goes like this: I decided to get new tile. I went to Home Depot, and picked out new tile. Then I scheduled it to be installed. A plumber came out and unhooked my toilet. He put the toilet in my bath tub and planned to come back the next day to take it out. The tile guys arrived. They tore out my old tile. They found a very large section of rotted sub floor. They couldn't put in the tile. The toilet remained in the tub. Two contractors, one plumber, and one insurance adjuster later...I am now scheduling to have my tub removed, my sub floor replaced, my entire tub surround replaced, new baseboard put in, and, you guessed it, new tile. Hopefully, this will all be done by Turkey Day. Most likely, it will not be done till Christmas. Just kidding, but not really, I'm a pessimist. What have I learned from this? The showers at lifetime fitness aren't that bad. And, I really love my home insurance.

The auto has only been suffering since this morning when it was side-swiped by a lady who decided to turn left from the center lane, across the left lane that I was driving in. She didn't care to look to see if there was oncoming traffic that would interfere with her illegal turn, and I was lucky enough to be on the receiving end of her carelessness. Poor Glenn (my 05 Jetta), is now black on the passenger side (he is white everywhere else), and very embarrassed to go out in public. What have I learned from this mishap? That when my dad says, and I quote, "SUCK IT UP, it could be a lot worse," he means it (and he knows insurance). And, I really love that the woman who hit me has auto insurance.

So, everyone, be thankful for your health, your happiness, AND your insurance this week. You bet your ass I'll list that as one of my "I'm thankful for's" at one of my three Thanksgiving dinners next week.

I'm protected,

SES

Pretty Paws

Do painted nails make you happy? ME TOO... BUT are you sick and tired of your nail polish chipping 3 days after your manicure? ME TOO. It wasn't hard to talk me into paying 15 more dollars for my manicure to have the "Shellac" process. What is this process you ask? I am going to tell you.

"Shellac" is a soak-off hybrid between a gel and polish. Soak off gels look just like polish but last longer, in part by being cured onto the nail with an ultraviolet lamp. The gel must be applied and removed by a professional. The nail tech paints on a base coat, 2 color coats and top coat- after each coat, your nails are set under a UV light. Not only do you leave with impeccably dry nails, you leave feeling secure knowing you'll have great looking nails for days to come.

A noted downfall- Removal takes longer. Acetone should do the trick, but a nail tech may need to scrape the crumbs of gel off. (I actually haven't gone through the removal process, but I hear it's easier than they say.)

It only took 5 years to make the product, but now women everywhere can go to the nail salon and leave knowing they will not have to pay to have their nails repainted for the following weekend. I have had my "Shellac" on for almost 2 weeks and it still has not chipped. (see above image) However, I do have some complaints:

1. You can clearly see the nail growth at the top of my nail bed... but hey, 2 weeks of red nails with no touch up? I'll take that any day!

2. As much as I love having red nails, I am really getting sick of it- but I refuse to remove it, because I want to se how long it will last... I almost feel like I am testing the McDonald's french fry.

3. My particular nail salon only offers 10 colors. All generic colors.

Give your paws a treat next time you get a manicure

Da Vest

What is a sleeveless garment, often having buttons down the front, worn usually over a shirt or blouse? The answer is, a “vest.”

I love vests. You would think I was a hunter, I wear so many vests. I was driving to work today, in my vest, and I started thinking about my obsession with the vest. I feela little manly loving vests so much, but I have to remind myself that the vest is no longer just a part of the 3-piece suit. (Can I say the word vest one more time? I am on my OWN nerves right now.)

If you are still reading, I promise to limit my “vest” term usage from here on out…if possible. Here are some vest trends I am loving.

The Fur Vest. I DIE:

Rachel Zoe made a name for the faux-fur vest while keeping PETA happy the entire time. Her faux fur vests sell for under $100 on the QVC website/network.

The Puffer Vest. Another favorite of mine. Let’s say you had a few too many and some late night food the night before? Put on a puffer. Not only will you hide your bloat,you will still look stylish and you most definitely will be comfy. Oh dear, now everyone knows my “puffer wearing” secret. Next time you see me in a puffer, please don’t automatically assume I ate/drank too much:

The $425 Moncler Puffer. Most recently, Sarah Jessica Parker was seen cruising the streets of Manhattan with this on. My body needs this:

Gold Puffer, by GAP

The coolest vest. My favorite, and on my body today:

Isn’t this the best?

Ron Burgundy can have lamp, because I LOVE VEST. Hope your holidays are full of cheer and maybe a new vest or two.

Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

I was going to hold off on posting this message, due to the nature of it's content and the fact that it may be old news, but I feel as though it's my civic duty. I have a public announcement to make: Mimi, formerly known as MARIAH CAREY, has a new CD out: "Merry Christmas II You" is now in stores.

That's right. Mariah has made a new Christmas CD. If you have any Christmas music sense at all, you and I both know that Mariah Carey's first Christmas CD is the best Christmas CD ever made.

I am a firm believer in not starting my Christmas music listening until the day after Thanksgiving, but I am shaking things up this year and starting early. Mariah's new CD just puts me in a jolly mood and makes me want to run home and put on my Mrs. Clause suit. (I wish I were lying.)

My initial thoughts- It's going to be another favorite. And don't worry, "All I want for Christmas" is on there! For Mariah's sake, I hope the new CD is a hit, due to the bun in her oven. (Someone has to raise the kid.)

Here are some other wonderful Christmas Selections. (I know I am leaving out many of my favorites.)

-Most Wonderful Time of the Year

-Baby, It's Cold Outside

-Rocking Around the Christmas Tree

-Feliz Navidad, Jose Feliciano

-Christmas Wrapping by the Waitreses

-Blue Christmas, Elvis

-Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John Lennon

-Step into Christmas, Elton John

-What are you doing New Year's Eve - Rufus Wainwright

-Grown up Christmas List" - Amy Grant

-Wonderful Christmastime - Paul McCartney

Wow, I feel like I need to be cozied up to a fire, with a glass of wine and Lucy Le right now. It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

Hello.

It has been awhile, folks. Don't worry, ww&gs has not dropped off the face of the earth. It is true that one of us moved to OKC, and it is true that we have both started new jobs, but the future is bright my friends, and so are the glowsticks. We aren't going anywhere.

I am rounding up week 2 of my fabulous new job that has kept me out of Addison for a solid month. Yes, it is great. I even got to spend two weeks on Spring Break travelling to Edmond and Austin for ACL Fest and sleeping everyday till Noon. You can't beat that.

I don't have anything particularly amazing to talk about today. I am currently frustrated by several things (namely politics and the likes of Sarah Palin and the Tea Party), but have chosen not to air those grievances here. You can thank me later.

This weekend promises to be fun and spirited (pun intended). I love Halloween (sometimes). This year should prove to be particularly special as I get to spend it celebrating the upcoming nuptials of one of my dearest friends and her wonderful fiance. I love spending time with my wonderful friends :)

I don't have much else to say, but I promise to be around more in the future. I know you can't get enough of me.

Rhonda, I hope you are wearing sunscreen in Mexico.

Jamie, good luck tomorrow! Run like the wind!

Love,

SES

White Wine (yes they sold it in sports bottles) and Glowsticks at ACL.

Photoshop Me NOW.

Trying to visualize what you would look like Gisele Bundchen sized? (probably a little shorter, but just as thin, of course) Well, I have the tool for you:

http://www.empowermephoto.com/products

Send Empower Me Photo a current picture of yourself, and they will slim you down. The image will give you a a positive, empowering visual affirmation of a healthier, skinner you. The website will put your slimmed down image on magnets, wallet size photos or stickers.

Cheapest product on the website is $19.95, so I suggest you get with your friend that knows photoshop. But just think of the snacks you might miss by looking at your "Gisele" body magnet on the fridge.... hey, it's a start.

(This is a total "Monday, I had to much to eat over the weekend" post.)

Who's Space? MY SPACE.

Myspace, a place for friends....4 years ago. Last evening, I finally decided to delete my Myspace account. I never knew how difficult this process would be. To delete one's account, you have to confirm that you really want to take this action 2-3 times on the website, then you receive another email confirming that you really want to delete the account. Finally after confirming about 4 times, that yes, I am done with myspace, I got an email saying that my account would forever be gone in 24 - 48 hours.

It is ironic to me that the day after I give up myspace for good, they launch a new logo:

I sure hope myspace doesn't make a comeback. After logging on to my mypsace account and having not updated the information since 2006, I wondered how much had changed. To my surprise, not much. Still in love with the Today show, check. Still want to meet the Roloff's, check. (Little People Big World) Still like to "always look on the bright side of life," double check. Still wanted to own a bakery....well...... not so much. Ever since I lost my work's bake-off, I haven't been too confident in my baking skills. (this is a work in progress; move over martha stewart)

But how about the profile song? What would my profile song be today, if I still had my account? Well, that my friends, would depend on the day....However, this thought brought me back to a happy place. The days of pimping out my myspace background and adding music to my profile. And then there would be those days where the song wouldn't load...what a pity.

I have no idea where this post is going. All I know is, I no longer have a Myspace account. Goodbye Myspace, hello dignity, good to see you again.....and if I had to choose a theme song for today it would have to be the Cure's Friday song:

I don't care if Monday's blue Tuesday's grey and Wednesday too Thursday I don't care about you It's Friday, I'm in love.