Tuesday, August 28, 2012

License Plates

I have a passionate hate toward vanity license plates.  I think they are ridiculous and quite frankly they scream "please follow me, kill me, and dump me in a river."  From my experience, they generally say what people want to be and not what they are.  I've compiled a few examples.

ERIC&DAD.  One of my all time favorites.  Yeah, thought this was cool at 16 driving your dad's car and now you look like a loser.   

SEXYBOD.  I sped past her... I promise you she tells lies.

ALC HOL.  You're asking for a DUI dude.

EWW EN SEE.  Superfan? Your 6 UNC Tarheel bumper stickers made that obvious enough.

MY4KIDS.  Hope you're not planning on getting prego again.

NOT OJ.  Okay, this was funny.  It was on the back of a beat up old bronco.  Props here.

In North Carolina a personalized license plate is an extra $30.00.  I'd rather buy a new dress or get a manicure.

West Nile Virus

There have been numerous cases of the West Nile Virus around the country over the past several months.  Two cases not so far from where I live and work.  These cases were identified at a different hospital, but none the less, they were within a 30 mile radius.

Mayo Clinic indicates that most people infected by the virus have no signs or symptoms.  I have no signs or symptoms but roughly 23 mosquito bites on my body (yes, I just counted) so, statistically speaking, I've probably been hit.

How does one get attacked by swarms of mosquitoes?  Well, I've been dealing with this issue for 27 years a very long time.  I like to tell people it's because "my skin is just soo sweet" but in reality, I'm easy prey. 

1- I do not wear insect repellent.  To me, it's repulsive, sticky, and makes me feel like I just sprayed a nasty film onto my body (I am aware that is exactly what just happened)
2- I wear scented body wash and perfume.  Sorry, Burberry Original is a must.  I will not change this.
3- I live at a lake.  Standing water.  Enough said.
4- Tucker and I take walks nightly, at dusk, the worst possible time of day to be outside but the coolest part of the day and I think, the prettiest. 

What I'm saying is that I've been vulnerable to infection for years, and I think I have it. 


pesky little things

Friday, August 17, 2012

Living Social


Where have I been?  I just purchased a hotel stay, steaks, and a massage on Living Social.  It was the best fix to my online shopping obsession AND at a discounted rate!.  I had to log off before I seriously considered purchasing the cleaning service, private music lessons, vineyard tour, and the world class knife set.  Living Social, I'll be back to see you soon.  xoxo

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

USA Swimming

Thanks goes to Ashley for forwarding me this special photo.  Nice work USA Swimming!

Olympic Gold

Yesterday evening I was feeling pretty lazy... really lazy if I'm going to be truthful but I knew sitting on the couch wasn't really the best idea if I'm in Olympic training mode.  Yes, you heard me correctly.  I, along with my mother, are now training for the flat water kayak Olympic team.  Mom still doesn't wonder off too far and secures herself in a life jacket (safety first) but is actually getting to be pretty competitive so watch out. 



The rain let up around 7p yesterday evening so I decided to shove the kayak into the lake (seriously) and for the first time ever I managed to hoist myself into the little boat without assistance or flipping it over.  Success.  I took a short 2 mile paddle down the lake.  There are three to four bald eagles that live nestled in the treeline that I see on a rare occasion but this time baby boy got a little too close for my own good. 

Picture this...

As I'm paddling along I look up and this huge bird is flying straight toward me.  The first thing that crosses my mind... prepare for an attack.  This thought was disappointing, not because I am fully prepared to swat at an American legacy, but because I really really had no desire to get wet and fighting with a bald eagle would inevitably land me in the water.  By the grace of God, he dipped down 50 feet in front of me, snatched a little fish and flew away.  Phew.  What a relief to know I wasn't his target.  That was a close call. 

I regroup and continue paddling.  No rest for the weary but now my senses are on high alert.  I just avoided an attack so I'm pretty impressed with myself and relieved I didn't have to go swimming.  Some six or seven houses past the bridge an older gentleman was sitting on his dock.  The best part about lake life is everyone waves and talks to one another.  Of course I stopped for a chat.

It went something like this:

Man: I'm surprised to see you out here.  You know it just rained, right?
Me: Yes, but it's not raining anymore.
Man: No, no it is not. Just taking a ride down the river?
Me: No, I'm training for the 2016 Olympics.

The man then bursts into a fit of laughter as I solemnly paddle away.  New goal... bring home the gold at the Olympic games in Rio.  This is going to be a piece of cake!

next challenge:

no big deal

Monday, August 6, 2012

Drive-In

When I was growing up admission to the drive-in was per car.  This was great because we would all pile into my friend Erin's suburban and head to Eden.  Even as teenagers we'd hit the marry-go-round and act like 8 year olds and without a doubt I would long be passed out before the second movie even began. 

Luckily, the sister theatre to the Eden Drive-In is in Albemarle.  When my family comes to visit, it's inevitable... a trip to the drive-in.  Two movies for $6.00/adult and $3.00/child.  In today's economy, entertainment doesn't get much cheaper.  Drive-Ins are also pet friendly.  Tucker is a huge hit.  No doubt he thinks he's royalty.  The best part... free wi-fi.  This is an extra special treat for the internetless. 

So, as I sit here waiting for the double feature to start I am thankful for outdoor theatres.  Adding to my bucket list Shakespeare in the Park in NYC.  A beloved summer tradition I definitely want to be a part of.  For those of you who love music, summertime is full of music festivals and in Greensboro hundreds come out to enjoy Music in the Park  on Sunday evenings.  Despite the heat, summertime isn't too shabby.

I couldn't resist a few photos...

get there early for a prime spot


waiting for the sun to set

Tuck was very excited about all of the attention


great opportunity to people watch


taking advantage of the free wi-fi before the movies


Don't forget to pack a blanket and lounge chairs and fill a cooler with all the goodies you'll want.  Adult beverages are welcome. 




Friday, August 3, 2012

Fun Times Ahead!

I feel like I've been working non stop.  Granted, I should be working non stop considering my recent move to another hospital and a new position.  Time sure has been flying and I just got REALLY REALLY REALLY excited about the next few months.  SO much is planned and with people I love!  Whether you care or not, here goes the play by play.

8/3-5 Family time at the lake
8/9-12 Beach with the girls to celebrate Amanda's bachelorette weekend!
8/17-19 Spending the weekend with my childhood bff
8/25 Celebrating lots and lots of birthdays
8/31-9/2 Amanda and Justin's Wedding!
9/6-10 Sheils marries the Sheriff in CA
9/21-24 DC reunion with Pheebs and Andrew
10/12-18 Boston for a conference and a little play time


And I will dance like this at every. single. stop along the way!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Yes We Cam

Even I am getting really excited about the impending NFL season. Pre-season for the Carolina Panthers is looking strong! Cam Newton, I'm expecting a trip to the Superbowl mister.

I do believe it's time I order that #1 jersey. Bring on the boys of fall!


Yes We Cam!