New Year's Eve

I am so happy to be moving on to 2011. This year has been a rough one. First it was the break-up with Anastasia, then jumping through all the hoops with Social Security, including a hearing and then being denied, then independent evaluations for the insurance company I got my disability benefits from, then just recently losing those benefits, my son tearing a ligament in his ankle requiring crutches and a cast, then my car accident (The damage total is now $7,759.29 and they estimate my car won't be repaired and back to me until after the middle of January. That estimate will go up because they failed to include estimates for damage to my front seats during the accident.), and no job, even though I have been doing everything I can possibly think of to find a job. And my refrigerator completely dying yesterday. My kitchen smells like spoiled meat. It's disgusting and what's sad is that I lost everything from the holiday boxes of food that a local charity delivered.

The relationship failure was a hard one and many lessons learned. There were dating failures. Some of those were learning experiences as well. Along the way I have met many great friends and I've become the most social I've ever been in my life. I can't imagine going through the things I've gone through this year without having these friends. Several have become close and are very supportive and always willing to lend an ear and offer advice. You ladies ROCK! I camped for the first time, and numerous times this year. Who would have thought I was the type to love camping? My daughter was only hospitalized once this year, with everything that has gone on this year, that's a blessing in itself.

No one to smooch at midnight this year. The first time in...wowser, probably my whole lesbian life. I've planned to attend a house party with the group I belong to so I don't have to be home alone. It's a bring your sleeping bag so you don't have to drive home with all the amateur drinkers, otherwise I wouldn't be going out. I could stay sober tonight, but what about all the other drivers on the road?

I have a phone interview on Monday so wish me luck and say some prayers for me.

Here's an early toast for New Year's Eve for all my readers and blog pallies:

May the new year bring you much health, happiness, positive new experiences and many opportunities for growth...both personally and financially.
Happy New Year!

This is a re-post from 2008. Why? Because I lead a really dull life and this is proof positive that wasn't always the case.

I think the most memorable New Year’s Eve was back in the ‘80’s. I was 19 or 20 years old. (The legal drinking age back then was 18.) I had arranged to bar hop with friends by bus. Each of us took a bus to our first stop, which was Wendt’s Bar in Milwaukee. Even though the idea was to bar hop, we stayed there most of the night.

Lei’s, party hats, streamers and horns were aplenty. So much so, that my friends and I wore multiple hats and Lei’s. After ringing in the New Year at Wendt’s, we walked about 2 blocks to another bar. At some point my friend Cindy's mother picked us up and was going to give me a ride home, but there was some arguing going on between Cindy and her Mother. I ended up asking to be dropped off at an intersection about 3 miles from my parent’s house. (Yes, I still lived with my parents.) Taking the bus at that point wasn’t an option because the end of the bus line was less than a mile ahead.

I began walking and stopped at the next bar just to warm up, or so I thought. Apparently wearing 2 Tieras (one forwards, one backwards) a Fez type Happy New Years hat in between them, about 8 lei’s, and more streamers and confetti than I’ve ever seen since, makes you the life of the party. Having never been the life of the party before, I rather enjoyed the attention. Every single patron (and there were still a heck of a lot of people out at the bar at that hour) had to buy me a drink and wish me a Happy New Year. After a very short while I had to switch to plain soda because I could not possibly drink any more alcohol. Around 5:30am I decided I was close to being sober enough to walk the 2 miles home.

So picture this (and I am so glad that I didn’t know anyone at that bar and that no one had a camera.) Picture this, I am walking home (more like stumbling), it’s nearly 6am, the sun has already come up, and I am still wearing the 3 party hats and I still have about 4 Lei’s and streamers and confetti all over me.

I am a freakin'

walking

New Year’s Eve party!

Somehow I managed to walk down 3 streets in our subdivision without being seen by anyone. I also managed to get in the house and into my room, without my parents seeing me come in. The issue here isn’t underage drinking, I was of drinking age. The issue is not having my parents see me looking like a New Year’s Eve Party threw up all over me. My friends thought it was cool, after all, they had just as many party hats, leis, streamers and confetti as I did. Somehow I don’t think my parents would have been impressed.
As you contemplate your New Year's Eve celebration, please:

Use public transportation (some cities over very reduced rates certain hours on NYE/Day or
Designate a driver or
Have a house party and let your guests sleep over.
Be safe!

I want to see you all back to blogging bright and early New Year's Day.
(Ok, maybe after you sleep a little late and have a couple aspirin.)

What was your most memorable New Year's Eve?

Please post it in my comments section.

(If you don't have one yet, please don't try to imitate my exploits.

The hangover for the next day and a half was excruciating.)

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Randomness

I will be so glad when 2011 rings in! OMG. It's been one thing after another. My refrigerator has been making a funny noise. When I opened the freezer a bunch of defrosted food is what I found. I tried resetting it to make it colder but that didn't work.

I hopped on Freecycle. Nothing there. Hopped on Bookoo Yard Sales and found one. I went to take a look at it. The guy changed out all of his appliances for stainless steel. Now I just have to get it from there to here. I have arranged with someone, just cross your fingers it works out and I can get it on Saturday.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Best Buy Sucks!

I purchased a $50 wireless card that Anastasia insisted I purchase awhile back when we were together. I also paid the $49.99 Geek Squad installation fee. I called the Best Buy location where I bought it to inquire about at least getting the $49.99 Geek Squad installation refunded. I explained to the employee who answered the phone when the purchase was made. She assured me that even though it was out of their normal refund period they would refund the Geek Squad installation. I went there today and they refused to refund it. I talked to a manager and the Geek Squad manager. No, No and no.

I have no money coming in. I could really use that $49.99 for essentials and I have no use for the installation. So basically Best Buy is keeping my $49.99 for no reason. I feel like I've been pick pocketed.

By the way, if anyone needs a wireless card, let me know. I need to sell it for cash. It has not been used. Not even opened.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Happy Birthday To My Little Guy

Happy Birthday to my little guy!

Ok, he is over 6 feet tall, he's not a little guy anymore, but he's still my youngest. Monday he went for his annual physical. Height and weight. He lost 15 pounds since his last visit and the doctor was impressed. (Gee, isn't that nice? She's my doctor too and she didn't notice I've lost over 80 pounds this year.) His height was 6 feet 7/8ths of an inch. Yes, the tech actually said 7/8ths!

If you missed my 2008's post, check it out Happy Birthday to My Baby to read about one of his more infamous exploits.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Review AND Giveaway - Chex Mix

‘Tis the season for scrumptious snacking! Let Chex^® Party Mix help you mix up a holiday hit with delicious homemade options that can be ready in a snap!

For decades, savvy home cooks have been using crunchy Chex® cereal as the starting point for their family-favorite party mix recipes. Many Chex® Party Mix recipes can be made in the microwave in just 15 minutes and call for ingredients you already have in your pantry. From holiday gatherings to impromptu get-togethers, Chex® Party Mix provides a snack idea that will impress your guests in no time. Whether you’re looking for sweet or salty, Chex® Party Mix has something to offer every taste bud, making it the perfect go-to snack for entertaining this holiday season. Four gluten-free varieties of Chex cereal help ensure that even party guests with gluten restrictions can enjoy Chex® Party Mix recipes like the NEW Chex Lemon Buddies! Remember Multi-Bran and Wheat Chex are not gluten-free. Visit your local Walmart to find free recipe cards for Chex Lemon Buddies as well as the new Chex Apple Pie Snack Mix and Tex Chex® Party Mix recipes! The blend of flavors in the new homemade mixes will help you create irresistible new favorites and wow your crowd!

Chex^{® now has several varieties that are gluten-free and are just as delicious as the originals.}
GIVEAWAY:
To enter to win a Chex Mix Gift Pack:
1. Become a follower of Lola's Diner.
2. Comment and tell me what Chex^®Party Mix Recipe you would most like to try.
3. Include your email address in your comment so that if you are the winner I can contact you to get your mailing address.
(One entry per person.)

The winner will be announced here on Thursday, December 30th. What new

Good luck!

Lola's Diner Disclaimer: I was given this product to review, along with a nifty extra large tote bag and a set of measuring cups. General Mills provided me with the information and giveaway through MyBlogSpark. This review is 100% my opinion and has not been edited or reviewed by anyone. I was not compensated in any other way for this product review.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Review - Qwik Shower Gym Class Wipes

Awhile ago I received some samples of Qwik Shower Gym Class Wipes. I apologize for the delay in posting my review.
From Qwik Shower Gym Class Wipes Website:

Your Kids Stink

How do I know? Because my kids stink. They don't take showers after gym class. That's GROSS

I have 3 active sons and often end up with 6 or 7 boys jammed in my car. They haven't showered after gym class or sports practice.


QwikShower: The easy, green and affordable solution to Stinky Kids

Easy: QwikShower gym class wipes are large, thick and cloth like (10” x 12”) moist, single-use disposable towels. They even have a scent that teenagers like. (Yes, we tested them.)

Green: Unlike popular body sprays such as Axe, QwikShower wipes are non-aerosol—so there are no fluorocarbon emissions. That also means the scent won’t invade everyone else’s personal space or overwhelm a locker room.

Affordable: You can purchase QwikShower wipes everywhere and they're super cheap. Purchases from this site ship for free

When I received the samples, my original thought was to have my son try them. He is turning 16 tomorrow and let's just say that when he comes home from school after having gym class everyday, he can get pretty ripe. I actually ended up using them myself. If you're a regular reader of my blog you know that I was in a car accident on the 17th of this month. After my trip to the emergency room I was outfitted with a very stunning immobilizer on my right leg. It was strapped onto my leg over my jeans with like a billion velcro straps and it covered from the top of my thigh all the way to my ankle. In addition to injuring my knee, I aggravated my back problems, therefore I could not remove the contraption without assistance. Because I was home alone, trapped all weekend, I was literally also trapped in the jeans I was wearing Friday evening. I could not remove them to shower. The Qwik Shower Gym Class Wipes came in very handy when I realized that it would be days before my kids were home and could help me remove the immobilizer so I could shower.

The Qwik Shower Gym Class Wipes are the perfect size. Much larger than those disposable hand wipes that come in a plastic bottle. The scent is fresh and pleasant smelling and doesn't linger. These are just the thing to freshen up when you can't shower, but want to feel and smell clean. They are perfect to give your kids to use at school to freshen up at gym class or add a bunch to your gym bag when you go to the fitness center and don't want to go out into the cold weather immediately after showering at the gym.

Lola's Diner Disclaimer: I was given this product to review. This review is 100% my opinion and has not been edited or reviewed by anyone. I was not compensated in any other way for this product review.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Monday Mayhem

We have all received well-meaning and not so well-meaning gifts. Sometimes, we got them because someone thought we could really use them and then other times we get a gift because it was a great deal and someone was in a hurry.

* You have received the ugliest sweater ever made. What do you do with it? I would put it in my donate pile and eventually it would go to Goodwill, Purple Heart or Amvets.

* Your aunt Mabel gave you a $25 gift card to coffee joint that is far away from your home. Do you re-gift it? I would probably keep it for myself. Never know when I get the urge for coffee...and want to take a drive.

* Your sister in law sent you a gift card to a store that isn’t in your town or online. What do you do with it? I don't have a sister in law. Problem solved!

* What is the oddest gift you have ever received from someone? That would have to be the box of toiletries I received that was gift wrapped and had not 1 but 2 bows on it. It was an empty copier paper box and it was full of deodorant, soap, shampoo, etc. It was the only gift I had to open on Christmas day. To say I was bummed is an understatement...and...are they trying to tell me something? I shower daily!

* What did you do with it? I will put it all to good use, however, I have no doubt that I will be annoyed every time I use them.

* Did you ever wear a sweater, or something else, that was given to you just because of the person who gave it to you and not because you liked it? I really don't recall ever getting something I hated. Some things have annoyed me...things that exes gave me. I just end up donating them when they became exes. Lol!

* What was the best gift you got this holiday season? A pair of Levi's one size too small to go on my shelf as more incentive to continue loosing weight.

* What was the ‘most regiftable’ gift you received this year? Anyone need any toiletries? Grrrrr!

* Did you keep anything that you had actually purchased with the intent of giving it to someone else? I did keep one of the Itunes gift cards from a pack I bought. But that was only because I wanted my kids to have an equal amount of gift cards. Yeah...that's my story and I'm stickin' to it!

* If you could give me one gift, what would it be? Peace on earth.

* What is the one gift that I can give to you? An Old Navy Gift card would definitely rock!

Thanks for playing! We will see you next year!

Join Us for Monday Mayhem

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Merry F'n Christmas

We were invited over to Anastasia's Mom's house for dinner by her sister. (This sister lives with her Mom.) Just before dinner was served Anastasia kept telling me we needed to leave. I took the sister aside to double-check and asked her if we were invited for dinner or not and it was ok if we weren't. The sister said we were invited for dinner. I told the sister that Anastasia kept telling me we needed to leave. The sister told me she didn't want trouble and that maybe we should leave. So we left without a word to anyone.

I am livid and both kids are too. In fact my son is beyond livid. The first thing he said when we pulled into our driveway was that he wanted to un-friend her on fb. My daughter piped up and agreed.

How incredibly rude! Her ho gf wasn't even there. Anastasia told the kids that she was working. Most likely another one of her lies. Whatever! Both kids want nothing to do with her now. I hope she's happy now. I did absolutely nothing to bring this on. I was pleasant to all of the family and never said anything untoward to her family about anything. In fact, I was my usual keep to myself kind of person...just like I always had been at family events there.

To Anastasia...thank you once again for showing your true colors. And thank you for ruining MY kid's day today.

I hope Anastasia's happy now.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Merry Christmas!

Santa was good to my kids this year. They loved everything they got. The repaired laptop and refurbished laptop were big hits, as were the generous gifts from area charities. However...I had only 1 gift under the tree for me, so I saved it for last. I can't tell you how much of a let down it was to open it. It was a box chock full of toiletries. Now don't get me wrong, toiletries are much needed, especially when money is scarce...but seriously? A big box, gift wrapped with not 1 but 2 bows? Yes, there was an Old Navy gift card in there (I did do a happy dance over that...I love me some Old Navy pants!) But I have to say it was like the Christmas of 1968 all over again. The disappointment on my face was clearly evident. Of course my son thought it was hilarious. (Note to self...someone is getting a gag gift next year full of toiletry items.)

Here is my re-post from two years ago:

Christmas 1968, my Father had been in and out of the hospital with back problems. He had just had major back surgery. Back then it was a very big deal, he was in the hospital at least a month. My Mother didn’t drive, but she dutifully took 3 buses each way to visit him daily while we were at school. On her half a mile walk home from the bus stop she would stop at the grocery store and purchase just what she could carry and what she could afford.

My Mother didn’t work outside the home, so we had to live on my Father’s small disability check. We were forewarned not to expect much for Christmas. I’m not sure if it was my Mother’s not so subtle way of letting us know that year was different, or maybe she was so tired from her bus travel, but my Mother didn’t put up the 7 foot artificial tree. That year we had a 4 foot silver aluminum tree that my mother put on the drum table in the picture window. It was truly a hideous tree and it forever marked a very different Christmas for us.

One night a few days before Christmas our front doorbell rang. My Father was still in the hospital and my Mother wondered who on earth could be ringing our bell after dinnertime on a cold snowy night. My Mother didn’t want to open the door, but I kept imploring that she HAD to open it because as I peeked through the picture window I saw it was Santa Claus! She finally did open the door, but wouldn’t let Santa in the house. He left 2 very large boxes on our front porch. Each box was 3 foot square, about 10 inches tall. One box was full of all kinds of food. There was cereal, flour, sugar, roasts, chickens, pasta and all sorts of canned goods. The other box had candy canes, chocolates, some clothing, hats, scarfs and mittens, and some coloring books. My Mother, proud as she was, kept calling back to Santa to take back the boxes, but he waved her off and disappeared into the night.

That Christmas was very lean. It was the year my sister and I got our first Monopoly game and Mini-Mod dolls instead of Barbies. At the time we were both a bit disheartened by the lack of Christmas loot, but as the years have passed I have to say that it was the one of the most memorable Christmases of my life. I was 7 years old and Santa came to my house and made my Mother cry. I don’t think I’d ever seen her cry before that. All that food helped us get by until my Father was able to go back to work. It was truly a Blessing.

We later found out that Santa was the brother-in-law of my parent’s neighbors, Tim and Terry. They said they had gone door to door and collected money from the neighbors and purchased all of those items. Terry knew my mother wasn’t going to ask for help and she knew she wouldn’t accept charity from her neighbors. A heartfelt note from Terry in one of the boxes told my Mother it was alright, it didn’t mean she owed anyone anything. It didn’t mean she was weak. It meant she was cared about. It meant she was loved.

We were to spend Christmas with my gf's family, but she got terribly sick last night. Flu or food poisoning...not sure...but definitely nasty and surely bad timing. We will be heading out to Anastasia's Mom's house shortly. I have no doubt that it will be very uncomfortable, but I will be sucking it up for my kids because they are so looking forward to it.

I hope all of my readers had a wonderful Christmas and a great time with their families.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Randomness

I have been wearing a stupid Santa hat since yesterday...trying to get into the Christmas spirit and it's just not working. I tried switching on the local Christmas music radio station in the car while I ran errands and it annoyed me so much I had to switch back to my usual stations.

I still have only 4 gifts wrapped. I have none of the food prepped that we usually have on Christmas Eve. We're not going anywhere today. I did have to run to a friend's house because my son forgot his PS2 cords and if I hadn't done that my son couldn't play the Madden 2011 game he got for Christmas from Anastasia. Thankfully my friend let me run in and out to get it before she was off to family.

Before Anastasia dropped off the kids I asked if she could pick up some dry cat food. (I mean it's the least she could frickin' do since I've been paying all their vet bills and everything since she insisted we get 2 cats last December. She said no. Of course that's because she spent so much on Christmas for MY kids.)

My SUV got towed to the repair shop yesterday, but I have yet to find out if they are going to repair it or total it. I have no idea what I'm gonna do if they total it. I just wish someone would freakin' tell me something so I'm not left to wonder. There is nothing worse than to be left wondering. The towing and storage fees alone are over $500. That's highway robbery for only sitting in a lot from Friday evening until yesterday afternoon, and I never even had a chance to ask for it to be towed to my house because the ambulance whisked me away to the hospital.

I am just pissed at the world right now and trying not to let me kids see it.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Review - CSN Online Stores

Last month I placed an order from CSN Stores.com for a new vacuum cleaner. I ordered the Pair of Blazing Needles Micro Suede Throw Pillows and August Lotz 18" Solid Chenille Futon Pillow - Solid Chenille Pillow - X -Toffee.
I love these pillows! They are super soft and very well made. They also have a stylish zipper pull. I bought these for my bedroom to go with my tan tweed duvet cover and they with it perfectly. Shipping was very prompt and the package arrived in perfect condition.
This Chenille pillow is super soft and also goes well with the pair of Micro Suede Pillows I also purchased. And it goes well with my duvet cover as well. These also come in Indigo and Red. Shipping was very prompt and the package arrived in perfect condition.

CSN Stores.com is now running a special, on selected products you receive a free gift with purchase. Some items have free upgraded shipping. They also have 10% off all Knex products and up to 50% off on Tailgate Toss.

For those of you unfamiliar with CSN Stores.com, they have over 200 online stores to choose from. Go check them out!

Lola's Diner Disclaimer: I was given a gift certificate to use toward the purchase of any product. I used the gift certificate to put towards the purchase of the Eureka Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum. This review is 100% my opinion and has not been edited or reviewed by anyone. I was not compensated in any other way for this product review.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Photos from the accident

Today we went to the towing lot to get personal items left in my car. While I was there, I took photos with my cell phone camera.

Here is the car that hit me:
This is the rear damage to my SUV:
This the front end damage to my SUV from the car I was pushed into:
I spoke to the insurance adjuster today. She said that the driver of the maroon car admitted he was at fault so they will be collecting my deductible from him. Thank God! I hope to be getting a rental car Tuesday. Freedom at last!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Review - Eden Fantasys

Many of you may have read my previous reviews of Eden Fantasys.
Perhaps you might think it may be too late to order for arrival for Christmas...not so fast! Eden Fantasys is offering Free Next Day UPS for orders of $100 or more and Free 2nd Day UPS for orders of $80 or more. And remember, 3-5 day shipping is always free for orders $59 or more.

Eden Fantasys ships promptly and all packages are discreet. I find that my packages arrive on time, sometimes arriving earlier than expected.

What if you've got Christmas covered for your significant other, or yourself? How about a special treat to ring in the New Year together? Don't have any plans for New Year's Eve? Planning to stay home? How about selecting a new adult game or a dvd or lingerie? Eden Fantasys has a large selection of adult games, adult toys, sex toys, dildos, vibrators, dvds, and lingerie (even plus size lingerie.) You're sure to find something unique and fun! You can select Toys For Women, Toys For Men, Toys For Couples, or Toys For Gender Play if you're not sure what you're looking for. There is even a gift finder and links for Gifts Under $20, 40% off gifts, 50% off gifts! Many products have reviews, so you can check out how others like a particular product and decide if it's right for you.

So go find that last minute gift, or get something fun to help ring in the new year.

Lola's Diner Disclaimer: I may receive a gift certificate in return for this EdenFantasys.com review as part of their Ambassador Program. I was not compensated in any other way for this review. This review is 100% my opinion and has not been edited or reviewed by anyone. Links within this post will direct readers to EdenFantasys' site, which contains adult material.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Holiday Meme

This week’s meme was borrowed from Lola -
(Thanks Harriet!)

Simply copy and paste this into your own post and respond to the prompts.

Here goes:
1. What is your favorite holiday show/animated show?

Sentimental - "It's A Wonderful Life", Funny - "Christmas Vacation", Animated show - "Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer".

2. What holiday character do you think you’re most like? Rudolf.

3. What holiday character does your spouse think you’re most like? The Grinch.

4. Favorite Christmas/holiday song? The Christmas Song" (Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.)

5. Most hated Christmas/holiday song? "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon. I can't explain it, it just grates on my nerves. I love just about anything else he did.

6. If you have an all holiday music radio station when do you start listening to it?

I have completely ignored it, except for once when I was doing a Christmas lights drive. I won't be listening to it again until I get in the mood when I start wrapping gifts.

7. If you have an all holiday music radio station do you love it or hate it? This year they started November 1st. That's wayyy to early!

8. Have you ever wrapped yourself as a Christmas/holiday present? Umm...no.

9. Who is Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer’s father? I already know the answer from last year. What are your guesses?10. Do you drive your neighborhood or one near you at night to look at other people’s holiday decorations? Guilty. Our kids always ask when we're going to do this. When we lived in Chicago we always drove around Sauganash. They had the best decorations. Santa in a tree house and a working, fully lit carousel. There are quite a few areas where we live now that go all out on decorating. A few look like Christmas threw up all over their front, side and back yards.

11. When you see a heavily decorated house do you think, ‘oh that’s lovely’? Or do you think, ‘oh criminy, that looks like Christmas threw up all over their lawn’? Umm, yeah, totally Grinch here. Christmas threw up all over their lawn. Unless they have some one of a kind, spectacular item in the display (like the Santa in the tree house or a carousel), I think Christmas threw up.

12. Are you counting the days to Christmas/Holidays with excited anticipation or dread? Dread. Nuf said. What with my loss of income and the car accident, I just can't seem to get in the spirit of the holiday.

13. When was the last time you had your photo taken with Santa? Did you sit on his lap?

Our son's first Christmas when Marshall Field's sent their best Santa to our apartment to make up for the bad Santa at their State Street store. Read read all about it here.

14. Do you make a Christmas/Holiday list for your spouse or significant other or do you rely on them to pick your gift(s) without a clue from you? I was asked to do this, but didn't do it. I suggested she just pay attention and go from there. We'll see how she did, huh?

15. When do you put up your tree and/or menorah/and or anything else? It went up last weekend (very late for us), however, it's just assembled, the lights are plugged together and no ornaments and I haven't adjusted the branches even yet, they are still all squished together from being in the box. Because of the accident, everything hurts, so I don't know if I'll be able to get it together and I'm not sure my kids could follow instructions on doing it.

16. If tree- Real or fake? Fake. I bought one 2 years ago on Black Friday. Never again!

17. When do you take your tree/decorations down? The day after Epiphany. Sometimes New Year's Day.

18. Do you shop the day after Christmas sales? What do you shop for? I used to all the time, no money for that this year. I may spend any gift cards I've gotten.

19. Is your work/office having a holiday party this year? Will you attend? I'm not working, so there is none to attend.

20. Do you have your New Year’s Eve Plans set yet? No plans as yet, but I'm definitely not spending it babysitting!

Thanks for playing!

See you next week. I’m posting early since Sunday Stealing is taking the Sunday off!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Some Friends rock...Others show their true colors

I was involved in a 4 car accident last night in front of my son's school. I'm fine, very achy, bad back pain and I have my right leg in an immobilizer and I am on crutches. My passenger is fine too, except for neck and back pain and overall achy feeling. My kids were not with me, thank God! We were on our way out to dinner.

I was stopped at a red light and an 18 year old guy plowed into the rear of my SUV, pushed me into the car into front of me, then pushed that car into the car in front of it. My car was the only one where the occupants were taken via ambulance. We got the worst of the impact. I figure the kid had to be going at least 35 or 40 mph. The 18 year old's car was the only car that had the air bag deploy. I think he may have been on his cell phone because when I got out to access the damage and get his information he asked to borrow my cell phone so he could call his to find it in his car.

Kudos to Honda for a very well built SUV. I have front and rear damage, but my SUV did not fold up like an accordion. My front and rear bumpers shattered. My driver's tail light was hanging by the wires, my grille was smashed to bits and my radiator was punctured, so my SUV is not drivable. The driver's seat also snapped backwards.

Kudos to the local fire department paramedics who were very calming and took great care of us until we got to the hospital. Special thanks to the dude who noticed my knees start to wobble and helped me back to my SUV until they got a backboard, neck brace, and stretcher for me. Up until that point I was insistent I was fine. Lol!

Special thanks to a friend who texted me throughout my several hours in the emergency room and offered to come get me even though she lives quite far and it would have interrupted her plans. You ROCK!

And as for a certain ex-partner who my regular bloggers have become familiar with...you SUCK! I called her from the ambulance (I know very few people where I live and I was really struggling to figure out who to call. Since she has always insisted we be friends, I figured I would call this "supposed" friend, my ex-partner.) I told her what happened and the paramedic promptly told me to get off the phone. It's almost 1pm Saturday as I type this and she has not called or texted to find out how we are.

Although I am achy and don't feel all that great, I feel very lucky that it wasn't much worse. My major complaint though is feeling trapped at home alone. I can't go anywhere because my car is in a lot somewhere and isn't drivable. Not that I feel like going anywhere...it's just the idea that I can't go anywhere.

The cats don't know what to think and they have been afraid to come near me until just now. Maddux was the brave one who just came up to me. Irish just peaks around the corner and stares and then takes off. It's kind of funny.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

What About An Emergency Equals A 30 Day Wait?

Ok, so yesterday I posted about how I was notified that I lost my disability benefits and have no income. So today I went to the local public aid office, completed application in hand, proof of my no income and bank statement copies. Everything I could possibly need to facilitate an emergency application for food stamps and cash. I was made to wait for 2 hours for my "interview" for my emergency application. When my name was called I was told that it would take 30 days. Really? What about the word emergency equates to a 30 day wait? When I asked about my "interview", I was told that was it, buh bye. I was like...wait a minute, I'm applying for emergency assistance, I was told I would be "interviewed" today. The worker told me my case worker was not in and there was nothing she could do. I walked over to the security guard to ask what I could do because 30 days to wait on an emergency is seriously unreasonable. She said to take the next place in line at the counter and ask for a supervisor, which I did. I was told that I could ask for a supervisor, but I would be told the same thing...30 days, and I would have to wait an unknown amount of time to talk to a supervisor. My back was already screaming from sitting for 2 hours in those uncomfortable kiddy chairs they have. I told him never mind and left. Then I went to the township office to talk to them about it because I'd remembered reading somewhere that they provide emergency assistance when public aid can't. Of course the social services person was out of the office, so I left my name and number. They called me back a few minutes ago and told me they only help when you get a utility disconnect notice and recommended I contact my congressmen.

Merry f'n Christmas to me.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Perfect Timing...

I just got notified today that my disability benefits have been terminated. Merry F'n Christmas to me. That means I have no income. WTF? There are no jobs out there. I've been applying for jobs for months and nothing.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

It Happened At Daycare

Writer's prompt - It happened at daycare from Mama's Losin' It.

When my kids were younger they went to a variety of daycare centers. Both home run, church run, hospital run and a privately owned local daycare center.

The privately owned local daycare center was a well run establishment. Lots of friendly staff. We didn't really know any of the other parents, but got an invite from one of them for a birthday party for their child. The daycare center owner took us aside and told us not to go to the party. She provided no explanation why we shouldn't go. So my mind wandered...considering all the possibilities...

Could the parents be drug dealers or gang members?
Could the parents own guns in the household?
Are the couple weirdos or clingy people who once you go to an event you can't have any peace?
Could the place where they live be a dump?
Is the husband a screamer/abuser?

I don't know the answer, but my curiosity was getting the best of me. Still, we did not go. What would you have done? Would you have gone to find out for yourself if one of my possibilities was true, or even something I never considered?

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Today we picked Julie Andrews. Here’s Wednesday Wickedness!

1. “All love shifts and changes. I don’t know if you can be wholeheartedly in love all the time.”
Have ever felt that you’ve been in love with someone constantly over a long period of time? I guess it depends on how long you mean, but in general I'd say yes.

2. “I am an optimistic lady.”
How optimistic are you? I'd say I'm fairly optimistic. If I weren't, I don't know how I would have gotten through the tough times.

3. “I don’t think today’s younger audience… would even know what 1920s musicals were like.”
Do you have any knowledge of 1920 films or musicals? If yes, any favorites?
Charlie Chaplin movies. Don't care for them though.

4. “I hate the word wholesome.”
Play word association. I say “wholesome” and you say: Vanilla.

5. “I have always wished I could learn to be a potter. I love collecting ceramics; it would be so fulfilling to create something lovely.”
What have you always wished that you could be? Employed in a very well paying job with lots of vacation time, and a friendly, supportive boss.

6. “Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.”
Tell us about something that you had to persevere through. Hello! Read my blog!

7. “Some people regard discipline as a chore. For me, it is a kind of order that sets me free to fly.”
How do you define your self discipline? Knowing when to stop. (Applies to just about anything.)

8. “Sometimes opportunities float right past your nose. Work hard, apply yourself, and be ready. When an opportunity comes you can grab it.”
Have you ever missed a golden opportunity? Hellz yeah! But I try not to dwell on those and try to move forward.

9. “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun and… SNAP! The job’s a game!”
Have you ever had that perfect job that was always entertaining? I've never had the perfect job...but all of them have been entertaining in one way or another.

10. “Sometimes I’m so sweet even I can’t stand it.”
Has anyone ever considered you as sweet?
Actually yes...quite a few peeps.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

I'm Making Cookies...Hand Me A Hammer And WD-40...

Sunday we had a cooking baking/Bears game viewing get together at a friend's house. (Ok, can I first say dat da Bears are embearassing?)

We made Sugar Cookies, Pfeffernüsse, Hershey Secret Kiss Cookies, Spritz Cookies, Kolachke, Almond Crescents, and Peanut Butter Cookies. (Wayyyyy too many Peanut Butter Cookies.) It was 3 of us adults making the dough for each and one of the kids helped decorate the Sugar Cookies. (Thank you!) Of course all the kids were around when the cookies came out of the oven!

So where does the hammer and WD-40 come in? Doesn't every dyke require a hammer and WD-40 to make cookies? I brought my KitchenAid stand mixer (Awesome! Love it! It made some of the really stiff doughs a breeze to mix.) The hammer comes in when the bowl gets stuck in the KitchenAid base and no matter how hard each of us pulled to try to free it we just couldn't do it. So I asked the hostess for a hammer and began tapping on the side of the bowl, tapping on the underside of the base, and tapping the bowl handle. One of the other adults asked for WD-40 and we sprayed it around where the bowl attaches to the base. We tried a butter knife to try to pry into the space between the bowl and base. Couldn't budge it more than a couple centimeters after all of that! Finally, I had the hostess take firm hold of the base while I tried to push the bowl in the opposite direction. It moved a couple centimeters. We tried again, a couple more centimeters. And again, and finally the bowl was freed from the base! OMG! We laughed so hard! One of the kids took video of part of the struggle. It was hilarious! OMG! We could not stop laughing. Sorry I can't post the video here, the video is on a camera that cannot upload to a pc.

So...have you been baking cookies for the holidays? What have you baked?

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: Reason to Believe

1. Has anyone asked you to believe in something that called for a huge leap of faith on your part? Can't really think of anything.

2. When is the last time you moved? Why did you move? I moved to suburbia 6 years ago. I moved to be closer to Anastasia's family. Now I'm stuck out here.

3. Malls? ..or one Internet? Are you doing more online shopping this year? The polls say we are, but I’m curious about what the real people are doing. I don't do malls. I do Target, Walmart, Kmart and Meijer. It's about equal, about 1/2 online, 1/2 in store.

4. Do you remember the first meme you participated in and if so, what was it? Probably would be 8 things about me or something like that.

5. If you could invent something, what would it be? I don't know, but whatever it would be I would want it to be the next "thing" and I would want it to sell bazzillions of units to make me lots of moola!

6. Are you finished with your shopping? Do you still a few things to go? What? Not even a game plan? …or is there just one person you’re having trouble finding something for? I think I'm done...except for buying my son a birthday present.

7. What’s left to do at your place (or where you are going)? Is the tree up? …or maybe you’re just happy you found the Christmas coffee mug and are calling that good? Everything is left to do! The Christmas tree and ornaments are still in the attic and I don't have a single gift wrapped.

8. Is your life turning out the way you thought it would when you were a kid? If not, is it better or worse? I can't even remember that far back anymore!

9. Tell us about something you’ll miss about 2010. I'd rather not say.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Randomness

Soooo...What are you all doing for New Year's Eve? I still don't know what I'm doing. In years past I've either stayed home, gone to or hosted a house party where guests were welcome to crash til morning, or in the distant past...bar hopped by bus where I was once a freakin' walking New Year's Eve Party.

Wednesday I took my son to the orthopedic doctor. He got a walking cast. Not because it's broken, but because that way his ankle and foot will stay stable to promote healing because he really injured it badly. His toes were even bruised purple! He gets the cast off in 3 weeks. I am not thrilled that I have to drive him to the freakin' bus stop and pick him up every day though, but I don't want him breaking the cast or getting the boot or the cast wet...and with the snow, getting it wet will be guaranteed on a 3 block walk. And realistically, falling and breaking his neck is a possibility too. And I did call the bus company for the high school...they refuse to do door to door...even...with a doctor's note! That's bs! Their excuse was that there were way too many high school kids with casts on their legs to accommodate everyone. Again! BS! I've had bus drivers for my kids in junior high who gave my kids door to door service when it was raining or snowing, so to not do so for a kid with a cast or on crutches is BS! Anyone out there not clear on that? It's BS!

...My son will only learn that the knit cap I wrapped around his foot (because even his big men's socks won't fit over the cast) and strapped his boot over will keep his feet warm (and not look very cool, but so what? Isn't Spiderman still in?) when he gets a frost bitten toe! He actually told me when I picked him up from the bus stop and noticed the missing Spiderman knit cap that it fell off. It fell off? Really? The boot that goes over the walking cast is like a ginormous sandal with straps...exactly how did it fall off?

RIP Ron Santo. His funeral is today. Anyone going to the funeral or the simulcast at Wrigley Field? I just heard about the Wrigley Field thing today, but a bunch of people I know did want to go to the viewing and funeral and I could have tagged along, but we all thought that because the area for the public was so small, that it would just be a waste of time. Who wants to stand in a line in the cold in a crowd and not even be able to see it?

So...how bout dem Sox? Konerko...$37.5 million...seriously?

How bout da Bears? How do you think the big game is going to go on Sunday? I'm rooting for da Bears, but I don't know if they're gonna be able to pull off a win.

Did anyone see "O" on Babwa wa wa? She said she's not a lesbian. Bwhahwhahahahahah!

Oh...and the Christmas tree? It's still in the attic with the ornaments. However, we do have Christmas stockings up. My son went up in the attic on Tuesday and brought them down. No doubt he overheard me saying that Saint Nicholas can't come if you don't hang your stockings. Unfortunately I tried it with Santa Claus, Santa can't come unless he has a decorated tree to put the gifts under, but I doubt it's gonna work. The reason being...Saint Nicholas usually puts a little candy in the stockings. Santa does bring candy. Lol!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010

Rock N Roll Fridays - Simon And Garfunkel Edition

Today we picked Simon and Garfunkel.

1. A HAZY SHADE OF WINTER But look around, the leaves are brown, And the sky is a hazy shade of winter. Oh, seasons change with scenery, weaving time in a tapestry, Won’t you stop and remember me?
Do you think of someone special during Winter? Santa is always a good choice. That or someone to shovel the driveway.

2. BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER When you’re down and out, When you’re on the street, When evening falls so hard I will comfort you. I’ll take your part.
What cheers you up? Going to see a friend or meeting up with a bunch of friends. And of course that means blog pallies too!

3. EL CONDOR PASA I’d rather be a forest than a street. Yes I would. If I could, I surely would. I’d rather feel the earth beneath my feet.
When was the last time you went barefoot in the grass? Probably the last time it was warm enough to do it.

4. AMERICA Counting the cars on the New Jersey Turnpike, They’ve all come to look for America…
How do you entertain yourself during a traffic jam? Everyone that rides with me know that if I turn on my road trip cd mix that starts out with Queen's We Will Rock You, Under Pressure, then Offspring's Hit That, Self Esteem, Want You Bad and more similar stuff. And I turn it up LOUD...and I sing along!

5. SOUNDS OF SILENCE When my eyes were stabbed by the flash of a neon light that split the night And touched the sound of silence.
What words would flash on your ideal neon sign? Talk to me? Lol! At least that's what it feels like it says over my head.

6. 59th STREET BRIDGE SONG Got no deeds to do, No promises to keep. I’m dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep. Let the morning time drop all its petals on me. Life, I love you, All is groovy.
What was the last event that made you feel groovy? I don't know. I guess I'd have to say the Halloween party I went to. A couple of people were dressed kind of funky...and it kind of reminded me of some people in high school and bell bottoms and all that.

7. RICHARD CORY The papers print his picture almost everywhere he goes: Richard Cory at the opera, Richard Cory at a show. And the rumor of his parties and the orgies on his yacht! Oh, he surely must be happy with everything he’s got.
Do you make enough money to keep you happy? NO! I've been going backwards instead of forwards in terms of how much money I bring into my household. It would be nice to make enough to take a decent vacation once in a while and be able to afford to go out a lot more often and be able to shop for more than 2 pairs of slacks (because that's all I can afford, so when I lose weight and drop a size, I've literally only got 2 pairs of slacks that fit properly and that sux.) And of course it would be nice to grocery shop without mentally calculating almost the the penny how much I've spent and be able to buy things that are not on sale when I like that item or that brand. And of course be able to buy healthier food, cuz heaven knows it's expensive to buy fresh fruit and vegetables (let alone try to buy organic).

8. THE BOXER In the clearing stands a boxer, And a fighter by his trade And he carries the reminders Of ev’ry glove that laid him down.
How do you feel about boxing as a sport? I don't know enough about it to like it or dislike it.

9. MRS ROBINSON Hide in the hiding place where no one ever goes. Put it in your pantry with your cupcakes. It’s a little secret just the Robinsons’ affair. Most of all you’ve got to hide it from the kids.
What was the last thing you hid from the kids or significant other in your home?
Always...Christmas presents. And the other stuff I can't say. ;)

10. I AM A ROCK I have my books And my poetry to protect me; I am shielded in my armor,
What item protects you? I'm hoping to find someone to fill that position... ;)

11. KATHY’S SONG I hear the drizzle of the rain Like a memory it falls Soft and warm continuing Tapping on my roof and walls.
What is your least favorite thing about rain? When it makes the roadway slippery.

12. HOMEWARD BOUND Home where my thought’s escaping, Home where my music’s playing, Home where my love lies waiting Silently for me.
What’s your favorite thing about your home? My vegetable garden.

13. FIFTY WAYS TO LEAVE YOUR LOVER The problem is all inside your head, she said to me The answer is easy if you take it logically I’d like to help you in your struggle to be free There must be fifty ways to leave your lover.
What was the worst way you ever left a lover? Uhhh, can't say...I plead the 5th!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2010