tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80521344543555610712024-02-20T14:58:57.206-05:00TeedaBlogA place for meeping and mapping.Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-34734474025998423582009-09-20T21:18:00.001-04:002009-09-20T21:51:41.129-04:00Nondate-out... Unboyfriend... Breakup?I was once married to a man that I'm quite sure to this day would take a bullet for me. Sometimes things in your life break your relationships. For me, that was my lung transplant.<br />
<br />
The good news is, it didn't break me, or him. <br />
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I once dated a man that said that he thought if we broke up I would shrug it off and play some video games. I loved him, he did not love me. Play video games I did, shrug it off I did not.<br />
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I've been on less than ten dates in the last sixteen months, most have been fodder for blog material, either intentionally or unintentionally.<br />
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So forward to last week. I think, maybe a boy likes me? Maybe I like a boy? We make a plan to hang out, maybe a date, a <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=date-out">date-out</a>, if you will. Boy and I both seem happy about it. The morning of, the boy wants to clarify what it is. I dunno, what is it? Boy says he's getting back with ex. Boy cancels hanging out. I say, thanks for telling me. Walk away.<br />
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What now? Ah yes, video games, with shrugging.<br />
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I wonder, when is the next time I will maybe like a boy?Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-11202683898494031562009-09-04T22:48:00.005-04:002009-09-04T23:09:03.697-04:00Pricks and Falls May Break My Bones, but Headaches Always Hurt MeOh dear where do I start! Today was such a wreck. Sinus pain woke me up at 3. I took care of that with a bit of <a href="http://www.tobitime.com/index.jsp?usertrack.filter_applied=true&NovaId=1178761803439875875">Tobi</a>, only to be plagued by a headache two hours later. Tylenol somewhat resolves the headache. I feel thankful that the locker room is closed for maintenance today so I don't have to feel guilty for not going to the gym... only to walk out of the bedroom to find that my animals have ganged up to completely destroy my black prescription sunglasses. I will add a picture of exhibit A soon. One whole lens was popped out and chewed up as if it were rawhide. The ends of the glasses that wrap around my ears, that my dear Suzanne spent so much time sculpting with hot sand so they would fit me perfectly, completely chewed off to reveal a thin sharp metal frame. The hinges bent beyond repair. The frame around the missing edge gnarled. Unbelievable. Perhaps this is the message I needed to not feel that I'd totally splurged to replace my OLD prescription sunglass lenses with my new prescription. <br />
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I can imagine how this happened. The little one, Mishka, was probably employed by her dog and cat siblings to jump to the table in the entrance area where my sunglasses and keys sit. All items properly knocked to the floor, then the others began their assault on my Nine West perfect black prescription sunglasses. The horror! <br />
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I managed to bring myself out of the combined rage and exhaustion in order to get to work. One amusing thing happened that was delightful. A girl, in an attempt to bring her bike down the front porch steps of her Rutledge Avenue rented home, bit it. Both her and the bike hit the curb. She was not hurt, except for her pride, so it was quite amusing. She seemed rather clumsy, and nearly fell over again while attempting to right her bike. The important thing was, she didn't spill her coffee, safely carried in her special no-spill coffee container. Good thinking.<br />
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Arriving at work, I find that my boss, B^Yuppie, has killed his computer. I heard the sounds of the dying MAC over and over, which reminds me of the sounds my PlayStation makes when starting up. RIP MAC.<br />
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The IT guy, C^Techy, spent the day operating on the dead MAC. He also spent the time trying to convince me to try play the open beta of <a href="http://na.aiononline.com/en/">Aion</a>. He finally convinces me to end the self-imposed anti-gaming phase I've been on for a good while. I get home and attempt to download the client, and when my computer says it will take 9 DAYS, I decide that is a sign from God. I am trying to believe it is a sign from God that I should not be playing any cool MMORPG's, rather than a sign that I need to upgrade my slow ass old Windows box. NOOO. I guess I should stick to <a href="http://www.rots.us/index.html">ROTS</a>. MUDS rule biatches. <br />
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During lunch I saw a sweet racing yellow Lotus Elise just like this one, except a hard top. I don't know that much about cars, so don't spam me about the Americanized version :) ( not that I'm in any danger of my barely read blog being a source of controversy)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.linternaute.com/auto/salon-coupe-cabriolet-2005/reportage/images/lotus%20elise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://www.linternaute.com/auto/salon-coupe-cabriolet-2005/reportage/images/lotus%20elise.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
I have a brief despicable idea to hang around and meet whoever is driving it. With my luck, it would be a woman. In any case, the [wo]man driving it is probably a prick, or has a small prick, either way it just wouldn't do, now would it? He/she was parked in a handicapped parking spot without a decal, surely a sign. Although, I suppose being a prick with a small prick is totally a disability. I should be more sensitive, it's one of my character flaws.<br />
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My lunch was complete crap. I used to really like the Chicken Alfredo and Chicken Montreal that is offered in the A la carte area of our MUSC cafeteria. Namely because it comes with so much cheese. Nothing with that much cheese can be wrong. However, I've given up. The last two times I've purchased this once favorite, the "chicken" has been disgusting, a truly awful looking nasty tasting foul (haha) rubbery clumps of gross. So, no more. I attempted to salvage the cheese and tossed the rest. <br />
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By this hour my headache had again become unmanageable. I waited the appropriate eight hours before taking two more Tylenol Extra Strength so that I don't become one of the lame-o's that busts their livers up taking too much acetaminophen. For fucks sake my liver is all I have left! Gone are the days where I can abuse ibuprofen. Oh so do I miss those days.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6221990/2/istockphoto_6221990-piggy-bank-with-squeezing-c-clamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6221990/2/istockphoto_6221990-piggy-bank-with-squeezing-c-clamp.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>So, to go about diagnosing the top of the head headache. It is one of two things. 1) Tension, highly probable. <a href="http://www.sccoee.org/">CoEE</a> stuff is crazy and being one of the only people in the state that understands it is trying. But, more likely given my new exercises, the problem is dehydration. Apparently when I get dehydrated, as shown in an MRI a few years ago, the fluid around my brain thickens up and squeezes my little brain like a clamp. This is of course a very unscientific description. For further information, read about dehydration and CFS, CVP, and IVP. I guess I should drink more fluids.<br />
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Luckily the headache resolved.<br />
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I'll write about my swimming and the gym later. I did it. Yay. The drag suit is completely too huge. I'm blaming it for the excessive slowness, because that is easier to admit than I'm just a total blob of inactivity with no more muscle tone. Never mind the fact that I could barely lift my arms in order to wash my hair and that today squatting down to sit on a toilet was quite a chore. What is funny is the looks of the other people who were at the pool thinking I must be the most modest person ever to have two suits on, and perhaps that I'd recently lost a bunch of weight since the bigger one was just hanging off of me. <br />
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Now that is something that sucks about being on prednisone. I hate how fat it makes my face. I was looking in the mirror at the gym, and my legs looks pretty skinny despite my idea that I have these huge hips. But, since I usually look at myself from the face down, and most of my pictures are of my pudge-a-liscous face, I feel huge. I know it's not right, I'm just saying. At least I'm not 95 lbs with a face so big that it looks like a balloon that could pop off any fly away anymore. :)Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-66672087326237203432009-09-02T20:54:00.000-04:002009-09-02T20:54:01.961-04:00Plan for tomorrowAlright here we go, the plan for tomorrow.<br />
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<b>Weights:</b><br />
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<ul><li>Shoulder Press: 30 lbs x 2 sets x B reps</li>
<li>Bench Press: 30 lbs x 2 sets x B reps (I know this isn't the bar. I'm going to have to give myself some help here I think for the first day)</li>
<li>Lat Raise: 25 lbs x 2 sets x B reps</li>
<li>Lat Pulldown: 45 lbs x 2 sets x 10+ reps</li>
<li>Dumbbell Curls: 10 lbs x 2 sets x B reps</li>
<li>Dumbbell Squats: 5 lbs x 2 sets x B reps</li>
</ul><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Abs: </span><br />
<br />
<ul><li>Allabs: 15 reps x 5 sets</li>
<li>Thrusters: 15 reps x 5 sets</li>
<li>Standard Leg Lifts: 15 seconds x 5 sets</li>
<li>Supermans: 15 reps x 5 sets</li>
</ul><br />
<b>S</b><b>wimming (very very light workout):</b><br />
<br />
<ul><li>2 x 50 m Freestyle, rest 15 seconds between 50s *get updated stoke count</li>
<li>2 x 100 m Freestyle, kick last lap, rest 20 seconds between 100s * get updated 100 m time trial</li>
<li>8 x 25 m Freestyle, alternate easy 25/hard 25, rest 10 seconds between 25s</li>
<li>4 x 50 m Freestyle Catchup drill, rest 20 seconds between 50s</li>
<li>2 x 50 m Freestyle easy, rest 15 seconds between 50s</li>
</ul><br />
I believe this will take me 75 minutes. Plus time for shower, dry hair, dress say 30 minutes. Planned arrival time for gym: 7:00. Get up time, 6:00. That should do it.<br />
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I'm off to get my stuff ready for tomorrow. Yikes! And I'm so tired. Hopefully my sleep will improve will all of this exercising.Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-72464565229561180002009-09-02T18:56:00.005-04:002009-09-02T19:01:09.056-04:00New Swimsuits Have Arrived!I received notification today that my new Speedo suits had arrived. I couldn't wait to go home. The order is correct. I'm a little worried about the 38. It's a lot bigger than me. But, it will make a great drag suit. Lots of water will get stuck in it for sure. It is still cute. I probably should have bought a 34 and 36, but I'll keep it. <br />
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I did have a fail today on the way to the gym. I realized when I'd driven half way that I'd forgotten my perfectly set out work clothes at home. So, I had to turn around and go back, and start again. Well, at least I didn't realize that at the end, which has also happened in the past.<br />
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The workout itself went about as I expected.<br />
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<br />
<ul><li>Leg Press 90 lbs x 16 reps x 2 sets --> must increase weight</li>
<li>Leg Extension 35 lbs x 12 reps x 2 sets --. I will leave this the same for next time</li>
<li>Leg Curl 35 lbs x 16 first set, 35 lbs x 12 second set --> Increase to 40 lbs for next time</li>
<li>Rows 30 lbs x 10 first set, 40 lbs x 10 second set --> Use 40 lbs next time</li>
<li>Push ups 10 x 2 sets --> These were of poor structure, so I'll do the same amount next time</li>
<li>Standard Leg Lifts 15 seconds x 5 sets --> doing 20 sets of these or any abs was totally unrealistic</li>
<li>Supermans 15 seconds x 5 sets</li>
<li>Scissors 15 reps x 5 sets</li>
<li>Thrusters --> I skipped these!</li>
</ul><br />
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Overall I'm pretty happy with this first workout day. I completed the main goal of getting up and getting to the gym, and working out. I even did nearly everything on my list. My abs are weak now and that makes me sad, but they will come back quickly.<br />
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So now I will prepare tomorrow mornings weight training + swimming workout and post it later tonight!<br />
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Today when I was at the gym one of the employees had a shirt on that said, <blockquote>"Training is the opposite of hoping."</blockquote> I really liked that shirt.Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-29787835696956443772009-09-02T07:02:00.000-04:002009-09-02T07:02:48.196-04:00I'm up and showeredReady to head to the gym. Whoohoo. Animals fed, must still walk M^Barbie.<br />
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Taking my morning stats now. <br />
Weight: 114 lbs<br />
Temp: 98.6 F<br />
BP: 107/79<br />
Pulse: 123<br />
BG: 115<br />
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Ok, healthy so far. Off to the gym!Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-22340694450031999212009-09-01T22:29:00.004-04:002009-09-01T23:00:42.893-04:00Back in the Gym!Alright! Let the procrastination end! I spoke to a friend, R^Callous, and he said I need to start going to the gym right now. Which, I already knew. No waiting for the swim suits to arrive. Tomorrow starts the pre-work gym routine. Must be strong for the 2010 US Transplant Games!<br />
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So, night time planning phase speed revs up one gear. Tonight, do laundry and set aside both workout clothes to wear to the gym tomorrow morning, and <b>all items</b> to dress for work. Check it twice. Dress, two types undergarments (I'll leave those to your imagination), work shoes! Workout clothes are easier because I put them on before I leave the house. Deodorant (unless going for a goal of being left alone all day)! For some reason I often forget things like my socks. Weird.<br />
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Now, planning the gym workout. I get out my book, which has been sitting, sadly waiting for me to pick it back up again. What day will it be? Legs and Lats day. Working out, being a gym addict in a former life, is a very detailed process. I will pick my exercises, and look back at my book to see where I should start weight-wise. Now, lifting for swimming is about endurance, not so much strength. So, lower weight higher reps. Must be disciplined! I cannot go to the gym with no idea what to do or how much to do of it. Then I will look dumb. Here it is the plan for tomorrow:<br />
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<br />
<ul><li>Leg Press (picked over squats because I'm feeling wimpy): 90lbs x 14 x 2 sets this seems like the right weight to start at based on my records. Maybe too light but we'll see how sore I am afterward.</li>
<li>Leg Extension: 35 lbs x 14 x 2 sets Why do these burn so much? </li>
<li>Leg Curl: 35 lbs x 14 x 2 sets To keep them the same as Leg Extension</li>
<li>Lat Pull down: 45lbs x 14 x 2 sets It seems like I wasn't finishing whole sets at 50lbs</li>
<li>Rows: 25lbs x 14 x 2 sets. I'm not sure about this one, it looks like I wasn't increasing fast enough on these and I was always increasing. So, let's see how it goes.</li>
<li>Push-ups: 10 x 2 sets</li>
</ul>And the most important, 4 ab exercises, keeping in mind that I'm not allowed to do sit-ups or crunches or anything at involves crossing over my body all due to my osteoporosis. So:<br />
<ul><li>Standard Leg Lifts: 15 seconds x 20</li>
<li>Supermans: 15 seconds x 20</li>
<li>Scissors: 15 seconds x 20</li>
<li>Thrusters: 15 seconds x 20 (now these are kinda naughty looking)</li>
</ul><br />
I can't seem to find my stopwatch, and I don't see one on my blackberry. I'm looking for one to download to it, my counts get pretty quick after a bit. Any ideas?<br />
<br />
This year I hope to really get my upper body strength back up. After transplant it really declines because the sternum wires restrict you to lifting a maximum of five lbs for a while. Since going into transplant you aren't exactly pumping iron and afterward you are concentrated on aerobic exercises, the upper body strength really suffers, not to mention I'm a female and it's not exactly our strongest quality. Beyond that I was always a bit afraid that I'd drop a bar on my Port.<br />
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I'm [slightly] sorry that I can't run or walk anymore. I have a something on my spleen that is growing and it is irritated by the pounding of my feet on the ground. I figure the swimming is going to cover it, but truthfully, I had the most growth of lung capacity during the period I was running. Oh well, can't risk hurting my spleen. I don't want it to break.<br />
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Now my book is all set for tomorrow. And my wake-up call is coming to ensure I get out of bed. The clothes are in the dryer. <br />
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I realize that this blog post is kind-of boring. But, what the heck. Life is sometimes boring, yo!Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-84652173355518795942009-08-31T20:08:00.007-04:002009-08-31T22:36:40.651-04:00More Prep Time for 2010 US Transplant GamesI did two things today critical for the US Transplant Games preparation. First, I asked my boss, B^Yuppie, if I can have the time off next year for the Games. This is important because it is during the most busy time of my work year, and 1) I don't want it to be a surprise and 2) I don't really want to bust my ass doing all of this training if in the end I can't go. Second, I RSVP's for the first Charleston meeting of the Games to take place in September at the <a href="http://www.lifepoint-sc.org/">LifePoint</a> annex.<br />
<br />
I was notified by email that my suits that I bought yesterday have been shipped. Most exciting news!<br />
<br />
So, pictures, this is the Speedo Pink Spacey Daisy Endurance+ that I ordered in size 38<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:gPbdYq9SlphlXM:http://stores.xpapparel.com/usaswimming/images/S5-8190219-UAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:gPbdYq9SlphlXM:http://stores.xpapparel.com/usaswimming/images/S5-8190219-UAL.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And this is the Speedo Pink Digital Rock Endurance + that I ordered in size 36.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.swimandtri.com/ProductImages/Speedo_DigitalRock_pinkorange_Large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.swimandtri.com/ProductImages/Speedo_DigitalRock_pinkorange_Large.jpg" width="137" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These suits also come with matching caps, which I may allow myself to splurge on later.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My plan is to go in the morning and lift weights first, and then finish in the pool before lugging off to work. This I found out is the more motivating plan because I can get warm first in the gym before having to plunge my already cold self into the pool first thing. I found that this plan works better for getting up. I'm not much of a morning person anymore, and unfortunately either is my dog, M^Barbie. So, no counting on her help to get up and at 'em in the early morning. She has a tendency to pretend she's dead if I try to make her get up before 7. Sorry doggie.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now for a flashback. The Transplant Games are really amazing. I don't think I've been so inspired very often in my life. I would encourage all transplant recipients, donor families, and living donor families to go to the Games, even if you are up not up to competing (competition is only available for recipients). However, there are so many different kinds of events that I would be open-minded and at least give them a look.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can find the 2008 swimming results posted <a href="http://www.kidney.org/news/tgames/usgames/results_swimming.cfm">here</a>. You can find my name third in 100 meter I.M., women age 30-39, third in the 50 meter freestyle, women age 30-39, and first in the 50 meter butterfly, women age 30-39.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'd like to take a special look at the third event, not just because I won it (but isn't that great!), but also because all three of these women are Cystic Fibrosis Lung Transplant recipients aged 30-39. What an accomplishment! Unbelievable, really, remarkable. Here is our picture.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wyAH2VpY_Ho/Spxh2zA_aWI/AAAAAAAAACI/LYNnOrUpZqQ/s1600-h/Butterfly_Gold_2008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wyAH2VpY_Ho/Spxh2zA_aWI/AAAAAAAAACI/LYNnOrUpZqQ/s320/Butterfly_Gold_2008.JPG" /></a><br />
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I was especially humbled and glad to meet and swim against both <a href="http://www.stenzeltwins.com/">Anabel Stenzel and her twin sister Isabel Stenzel Byrnes</a>. Please visit their website and consider purchasing their book!<br />
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My sister, <a href="http://www.cysticgal.blogspot.com/">CysticGal</a>, also took three very short videos, but she didn't get the butterfly since that was on the third day, after she had to leave: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/waitinggodot80">http://www.youtube.com/user/waitinggodot80</a><br />
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Are you getting excited yet?<br />
<br />
Please note that I have stolen my sister's method of changing names to protect the innocent. <br />
Also, I may need a volunteer photographer and videographer to record this journey for me!Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-38726266291707519522009-08-30T23:12:00.008-04:002009-08-31T22:37:16.486-04:00The Beginning, Again aka The 2010 Games Kick-Off PostI've struggled with the idea of starting up writing again, but couldn't find a topic that I could sustain a long-term blog relationship with. Well, I've found it!<br />
<div></div><div>You may or may not know that in the 2008 US Transplant Games, that took place in July 2008 in Pittsburg, I represented Team South Carolina and won two bronze medals, and one gold medal, in 50 freestyle, 100 IM, and 50 butterfly, respectfully.</div><div></div><div>That time I started training in July 2007 and did very well, but in December 2007 I got Infectious Mononucleosis and my training was severely detered until May 2008. Still, I won three medals.</div><div></div><div>Since then I've gained some weight, or maybe a lot of weight, and don't fit into my size 32 Speedo suits very well. So, tonight, in an effort to stop procrastinating, I've purchased my two new suits. One is size 38, the bigger "drag" suit. The other is size 36, the smaller suit. Perhaps by the time I'm done I'll be fitting into the 32s again and not manage to cut off the circulation to my limbs.</div><div></div><div>These are pictures of my new suits. I bought the pink Spacey Daisy Axcel Back Endurance + as the size 38 drag suit. For those that don't know, "drag" suit is not a suit I wear in order to dress in "drag" but instead a suit that you wear over your other suit while practicing in order to add weight and extra pull in practice.</div><div></div><div>I also bought the pink Digital Rock Splash Back Endurance+ in size 36, as my normal fitting suit.</div><div></div><div>I came up with a strategy in 2008 that I would swim the 100 butterfly, 50 butterfly, and 100 I.M. I specialize in butterfly, and there is less competition in there. I'm hoping that some of my friends from 2008 games will return. </div><div></div><div>So, I must begin training again straight away! Wish me luck!</div>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-43871954153136186742009-04-01T22:16:00.000-04:002009-06-17T23:03:50.660-04:00What We Learned On Our Cruise Part II<p>1) I do look like trouble, and Beth looks like an angel. Also, little old ladies can be mean to me, and they don't like my cowboy hat. Men do like my cowboy hat. I think the little old ladies are jealous.</p><p>2) Only Beth gets compliments like "Princess", "Lovely Lady", etc. Then they say something to her like, "oh looks like you brought trouble back for dinner" (referring to me). I have not yet decided what to make of this, but I can tell you it has been going on our whole lives.</p><p>3) I already had a theory that two breakfasts were needed to sustain my troublesome activities. The cruise proved that theory. We need a warm-up breakfast, second breakfast, and to be planning the next day's two breakfasts at all times. </p><p>4) The only thing that Beth does in her sleep is kick people. She's always done that. I am able to lots of things, as I have way more practice being productive while also sleeping. Warning: If you plan to get heat stoke and you think my sleep walking butt will save you, you are wrong. I will probably just growl at you like a mean bear. </p><p>5) Asian women who give massages on cruises are appalled at the lack of water in my diet. They do not feel that a diet of breakfast and Mountain Dew is adequate.</p><p>6) I still regret teaching Beth about roulette. She spanked me the second night and I had no money left. I think I should have taken her to the Unicorn game.</p><p>7) When your little sister looks really cute and wants to play the Unicorn slot machine even though it's total bogus, do not do it. I think it was really just a ploy to eat up the 300% winnings I had after my first night at roulette.</p><p>8) Seeing cruise commercials about the Yellow Bird boat inspires you to make videos about how you've never drank so much rum punch in your whole life. The video also makes you think lots of drunk baby boomers are riding the Yellow Bird boat and dancing like Elaine Benes. That has some potential. Then, while waiting for your wonderful beach getaway, you see that the real Yellow Bird occupants are really drunk men with hairy bellies with balloon animals shaped like penises on their heads. I think the Yellow Bird boat is a bad idea, personally.</p><p>9) A rum cake is indeed covered completely and soaked in rum. It is also air packaged so tight that you might injure yourself while attempting to open the package. Let this be a warning to you.</p><p>10) It was very tempting to see how long Beth and I could live on the Nassau beach. But, we felt bad for the sting rays and I think we would have freed them. Sting Rays don't want people touching them!</p><p>11) Spring Breakers and Cougars by the pool are not a good combination. We definitely saw a lot of butts, or maybe we just saw a couple and that was enough. </p><p>12) Sometimes there will be a belly flop competition. It is run by the cruise director and a gay guy. I'm still not sure how the winner of the belly flop competition fits into his room, or his bathroom. He must have had a bigger room than we did.</p><p>13) Cougars on cruises with lots of bling are very strange indeed. They seemed to be seeking eligible males. If there had been any eligible males, Beth and I would have snatched them up. Bling or no.</p><p>14) I wish the cruise would have been a couple nights longer so we could properly investigate the two families we thought were polygamists. Who wants to wear those Little House on the Prairie dresses on a cruise ship?</p><p>15) When borrowing a suitcase from your parents for your cruise, search all of the pockets carefully, so that upon re-entry to the country you are not accused of trying to smuggle in coffee. </p><p>16) We noticed that a number of younger couples frequently looked kinda miserable on their cruise. The older couples looked very happy. This is because by the time you are an old couple, you know better than to attempt to make your wife sit indoors at a cruise ship bar and watch basketball, for instance.</p><p>The biggest lesson, always take a cruise with your sister. Take one every year. It's the best!</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-7167602917247146812009-03-02T22:32:00.002-05:002009-06-17T23:00:33.586-04:00Project Cruise Hotness continued<p>We definitely need a hotness update, since I was side-tracked by dates and Snuggies.</p><p>I seem to have made an error in my application of sunless tanning lotion. Please note, if you use sunless tanning lotion, do not forget your butt. I was checking out the progress and happened to turn around, and my Casper ass was just glowing white as if there was a black light around. I hope that this is now going to be remedied. Although I do plan to always be wearing a bathing suit on the cruise, I think this was a huge oversight. I was trying to think of a good name for this situation of white butt. Something like farmer's tan, but I haven't yet come up with one. Diaper tan, perhaps? Plumber tan would be the opposite of my situation. </p><p>Next, a special hotness addition, hotness with CF. Both Beth and I called our doctors today to make plans for blood tests. Any kind of blood work that would possibly cause a lack of hotness must be resolved. For example, for the last week or so my ankles have been swollen. This is one of the most NOTHOT things that I can think of. Your ankles cannot be as big as say, your neck. So, hopefully I'll take care of that tomorrow. </p><p>My new exercises are working so well! Now before anyone protests, you must learn a new word. It is skinny-fat. I learned this from my ex-husband the Marine. A skinny-fat is a person that is skinny all over, but has no muscle tone whatsoever. Think of a guy, I'm sure every work has one, with a short-sleeve button up shirt and these skinny arms sticking out with no muscles. The arms are usually pale, also. These arms are thin, for sure, but in no way are hot. I'm sure you know a person like this. Now, I'm not saying it's gone that far, but definitely some toning was in order.</p><p>Today I pulled out my bikinis and put them on. The one I bought last year and hardly ever wore still is way hot. Yay! Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately?, my boobs no longer fit into the bikini that Jana gave me two years ago. They look all smashed in there. Maybe they are supposed to look like that? See, I don't even know. But, I think it's too small. The bottom is so cute though. What to do, what to do?</p><p>Since I cut off all my nails the other week, they have to grow back. I think they will be the perfect length by the 20th. So, I will probably have another manicure, since Beth insists. I liked it, I did! </p><p>I was looking at my hair and I think it's just right. No highlights needed. Of course, Beth refers to it as brown since it's not as light as hers is anymore. She will just get to have lighter hair than me. I will try to gain points in another area.</p><p>Stay tuned for more updates on the color of my butt and other such interesting things.</p><p>:)</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-30872058745155891152009-03-01T22:23:00.001-05:002009-06-17T22:50:49.951-04:00Confessions of a Snuggie Wearer<p>Today I discovered that at least one of my friends does not know about Snuggies. So first, the Snuggie infomercial:</p><p><a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="https://www.getsnuggie.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.getsnuggie.com</a></p><p>Now, does this make you nervous? It still makes me feel weird. Snuggie seems so strange. When I see this commercial I, too, think, "What dork would wear that? OMG how dumb! What kind of loser would wear it to a sports function?" This is a common theme! You are not alone! Please see the following video for reference:</p><p><a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h05ZQ7WHw8Y" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h05ZQ7WHw8Y</a></p><p>Please notice the stealth fashion in which the book light operates! It opens up like a cobra, so sleek and smooth! I literally opened it 65 times the first day! </p><p>So, how did I come about to own a Snuggie? My Dad! He was moved by this commercial, and searched out two rare Snuggies for his two best daughters, me and Beth! He thought about how cold we always are, how frustrated we felt by the normal use of blankets and the struggle to eat and blog and hold our kitties with them! Surely our life would be enhanced by Snuggie ownership! </p><p>At first I was confused and scared by this strange gift. Would some paparazzi obsessed with my blogs snap a picture of me and ruin my image? Would the Google Earth post a picture of me in a Snuggie? My hotness image would be ruined!One day I put my Snuggie on. I'm now a changed woman. Too cold no more! Hands and arms free to do what I please! The Snuggie also provides plenty of room in the case that I gain nearly 100 lbs! My life is so much better I'm almost unrecognizable! Just like the commercials, I always smile in my Snuggie. My body actually prohibits me from being able to read a book without it. I have adapted to Snuggie use.</p><p>Sometimes I must alter the Snuggie ever so slightly. In order to walk around the house in Snuggie without tripping and falling on my arse - "I've fallen, and I can't get up!" - I have added a stylish belt. This provides a more mobile Snuggie, and also the added benefit of looking like a monk. I've also found it useful for image purposes while practicing witchcraft. The belted Snuggie also adds the precious back coverage.</p><p>This is especially important for escaping the hospital gown, ass hanging out look. Speaking of hospital gowns, I believe they should all be converted to Snuggies. So much warmer! So much softer! Easier to rip off in the case of an emergency heart attack situation.</p><p>Speaking of ripping it off? Where does that YouTube parity get off saying it will ruin your sex life? Surely anything so easily removed would be beneficial. </p><p>The Snuggie is so cool that Snuggie Pub Crawls are planned across the nation:</p><p><a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.snuggiepubcrawl.com/Locations/Boston/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.snuggiepubcrawl.com/Locations/Boston/</a></p><p>Thanks to Eugene, I know about the Snugglette! Boy I sure wish that pretty pink color came in the adult sizes! </p><p><a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="https://www.snugglette.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.snugglette.com</a></p><p>I can't wait to have a whole family of my own so we can all wear our Snuggie/Snugglettes with pride!</p><p>So many people love the Snuggie that there are people actually bootlegging the pattern! How outrageous! </p><p>In closing, I will sing my new awesome song, to the tune of the old 80's toy, My Buddy:</p><p>My Snuggie, My Snuggie, Wherever I go, she goes! ... My Snuggie and Me!</p><p>yay!</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-63746485577550879482009-03-01T04:17:00.002-05:002009-06-17T22:47:02.251-04:00When hotness strikes...<p>Alright, time to report on the date tonight. I think it was definitely a date, and that fact alone allows me to report it with the fair and balanced coverage I give to all of my dates in the last 10 months. Never mind that there have been only about 10...</p><p>So, first thing, we go to a movie. We went to see The Wrestler. I liked it. I have one residual question if anyone can answer it: Does Mickey Rourke actually have a heart or lung condition, or did they use some kind of makeup artist to portray his clubbing fingers in the movie? I find that to be a wonderful touch, since they usually miss such important details in a movie.</p><p>Ok back to the business at hand. We went to the movie. I liked it. But, I find it really annoying when people talk to me during a movie. And, the date did. I'm not saying I never make a sound at a movie, but commenting on each thing kind of drove me crazy. </p><p>So then he says he wants to stop by a birthday party for one of his friend's brothers. I say ok. We go to this little biker shop where there are a bunch of rednecks drinking and smoking. I mean like 90% of the people are smoking. Okay, that was not so bad. I'd met a couple of the friends the other night, they were all good guys. So, then there was a piñata. It is shaped like a shoe, a stripper shoe is the best I can describe it. The birthday man hits it for a bit and it breaks and lots of sex things fall out. Sex things like flavored lube, magazines, um.. toys. Now, I'm saying, if these were all my friends this would be cool, but this is a first date with a girl that doesn't know anyone else. </p><p>So next we go to King Street Grill and have food. I like food. Now he starts talking. It becomes apparent that he must have some type of psychological problem. I can't really put my finger on what it is. So, I tell him he has to stop texting me. I tell him if he wants to talk to me he has to call me on the phone like a real person. He took that pretty well I guess. Anyway, in between his unorganized rants, he just tells random off-color jokes. He told about seven jokes in a row. They were not original commentary about funny things, they were just rehearsed jokes that covered all of the usual offensive subjects. He asked me if I know any jokes. I do not store jokes in my brain like trivia. He thought that was weird. I, in turn, thought it was weird that he believed a good conversation comprised of a smattering of poorly timed off-color jokes. It's all about the timing.</p><p>Clearly the timing was off on this whole night. </p><p>Anyway, I'm glad to say that I arrived home all in one piece. I promptly put on my Snuggie. Snuggie makes you feel better after a weirdo date. Snuggie + KittyBear + odd blog = perfect night, at least that's my story.</p><p>Lesson to be learned - increased hotness may increase quantity of dates, but quality remains the same.</p><p>Once again I hope all of my loyal readers are entertained by my daily experiences. No firemen were hurt by this date. All characters are real but the names have been withheld to protect the guilty parties.</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-25216115779357080772009-02-25T23:48:00.002-05:002009-06-17T22:43:30.454-04:00This is awesome, uh, hotness continued, sorta<p>So tonight, I went to Red Drum to experience Cougar Night. Now, apparently this is a secret, even though I was all on the radio and everything. It's totally Cougar night at Red Drum on Wednesday. I've always wanted to go. It's a social opportunity that is completely remarkable. </p><p>At first I was not impressed. I even asked the bartender, "Where are the cougars?" He acted like he didn't even know what I was talking about. Okay, a cougar fan.</p><p>But then, around 9, the cougars started arriving. By this time I was into maybe my 4th Guinness. Now, I don't think these were real pints. They maybe were 12 oz. Anyway, I saw the cougar in action. Now, I'm in a weird situation. I'm definitely too young to be a cougar. But, I'm too old to be like 20ish. </p><p>Let me describe the cougar. 40ish. Boobs out, all over the place boobs. Bleach blond hair. It reminded me why for two years I colored my hair red. Seriously, if you are going to dye your hair blond, put some cash into it. The bottle blond is so 80's. Blah. Anyway, suddenly I'm surrounded by bleach blond, old bimbos drinking wine or some other lame-o drink. And, of course, with the boobs all over. I am in my usual work outfit, dress pants and a conservative sweater, no makeup, no boobs. Many cougars start closing their tabs, clearly disappointed they had to pay for a couple of their own drinks. Ha ha. Suddenly I wish I could read the minds of people I didn't know very well. I think it would have been hilarious.</p><p>I meet a fireman or three, from IOP. I don't date fireman. Sorry, fire professional friends, but it's just a bad idea. Anyway, I gave one my number. I don't remember his name, but I put him in my blackberry as "Fireman I don't remember his name". He seemed nice enough. He thought I was hilarious. That's a good sign, because I have sort of a mean, strange sense of humor. Not to mention, the more Guinness I drink, the more inappropriate things I seem to say. Anyway, what I told him was, I would never call him. Maybe if we dated about three months I'd call him. I'm serious.</p><p>Well, let me get to the point. I think project cruise hotness is working, because even in my inebriated state, I could tell that I had way more assets than any cougar even with no makeup and no boobs showing. Yay!</p><p>My friend from work, Robyn, was my invitee to the Red Drum. I hope she has fun and also that she gets home alright. I tried to make her leave when I did or come home with me, but I was unsuccessful. I will have to call her and see what's up. I guess I won't tag her in this note because she has kids and stuff. But fun! Yay, tonight was fun.</p><p>I missed my exercise today because of this cougar adventure. I guess I'll have to reschedule my hotness training. There is always tomorrow. </p><p>In other news, my Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel came in the mail yesterday. I sure hope it is awesome. I will try it this weekend. Also, I met some people that seemed fascinated by the fact that I had a lung transplant. I will just chalk that up to ignorance. But, you know, I'm tired of warning the crap out of any guy that seems interested. He can just google it all. </p><p>Okay, my too many Guinness rant is over. I hope you enjoyed it! </p><p>Cougars are awesome and amusing. Hail to the ultimate cougar, Demi Moore! :)</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-76198041227285280032009-02-23T21:33:00.002-05:002009-06-17T22:39:35.615-04:00Project Cruise Hotness, continued<p>In my sister's note about her hotness goal, someone said she's "trolling for hotness compliments." We (Beth and I) agree wholeheartedly. We are also, at least in my case, trolling for hotness advice. </p><p>For one thing, I don't think I can keep up this major hotness goal my whole life. It has already cost me a lot of time and money. I'm a fairly simple girl, style-wise. I no doubt would just blend right into the wall if I went home to Chicago, or to Florida, or the OC. So, hot for South Carolina, hot for 32, hot for a lung transplant recipient, just isn't going to cut it. </p><p>And yes, while I'd like to think my absolutely stunning personality (haha) is enough to radiate some hotness all on its own... Well, that is not the goal of this exercise.</p><p>So, progress: I completed all 40 minutes of my workout on my feet, and I don't feel like my legs are going to fall off. Yay! We'll see how that goes tomorrow when I pull myself up the stairs at work by the handrails. </p><p>Thanks to Jessica, I will be procuring some super-high wedge heels, and sarong over the weekend. Hotness! Keep the suggestions coming!</p><p>I believe that my face looks less like I've spent the last five years indoors. Though, the Jergens Natural Glow facial moisturizer doesn't give me freckles like real sun does.</p><p>Soon my 8.8 ounces of Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel will be coming, and after reading every review I'm confident that will be nice. If I'm wrong, well, I can exfoliate like a mo-fo.</p><p>I believe that my waist is one inch smaller, but that might just be my imagination :)</p><p>Over the weekend I will try on all of my bathing suits and see if we need some adjustment there!</p><p>Cheers to the hotness!</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-10294999584776490642009-02-22T22:50:00.001-05:002009-06-17T22:36:34.881-04:00Project Cruise Hotness<p>Beth and I are going on a cruise in March. In three weeks and 5 days! Whoo hoo!</p><p>Major hotness must be achieved by this time.</p><p>Goal areas include:</p><p>Pale skin - DHA yay! (real tanning not allowed)</p><p>Waist thinness - my own secret methods will take care of this (more to come)</p><p>Hair color? Taking a poll on whether or not to put some blond highlights in my hair. Poll begins now.</p><p>More sleep - must go to bed now!</p><p>More water! we'll see how I do on this one.</p><p>Will post progress... goodnight</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-3733170113520800492009-02-15T13:06:00.000-05:002009-06-17T22:34:19.037-04:00Sunday Morning RitualEach Sunday morning I go to the Bi-Lo and buy a Sunday paper and a Mountain Dew. This is a very important part of my week. Today, as I entered the Bi-Lo, I was bombarded by an overzealous Post & Courier salesman. He must also want to be or maybe is a used car salesman any other day. No, I don't want a paper everyday. No, I don't want a paper Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I only want a Sunday paper, and a Mountain Dew. I don't want to pay $11.70 per month. I don't want to talk to you at all, I just want to gather my Sunday paper and my Mountain Dew! Grrrr..Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-41252013883204697192009-02-14T22:17:00.001-05:002009-06-17T21:59:05.964-04:00Valentines Day DinnerI took my Valentine's date, my dog Marble, through the Taco Bell drive through tonight. I didn't actually buy her anything. I know, I'm a crappy date. I hadn't actually contemplated how sad this situation was until something strange happened. The price of my order was less when I paid than had been quoted. So, I looked at my receipt, and there were two words I thought I'd never see. "Senior Discount"<br /><br />I sat there and contemplated this while they prepared my order. Do I really look old enough to get a senior discount? Not likely, even today. Did the Taco Bell cashier feel sorry for me that I was driving through alone with my dog on Valentine's Day? Possibly. Maybe he was a joker? Maybe I was nice to the guy and he gave me the only discount they have there? Maybe that is how he tries to pick up chicks?<br /><br />I don't know. What do you all think? Anyway, my follow up to my romantic at-home Taco Bell dinner will be a romantic movie. Hmmm... Boogie Nights might just be perfect.<br /><br />Love You!Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-49614036604612362662009-01-24T22:31:00.001-05:002009-06-17T22:32:24.328-04:00Taking suggestionsI plan to start writing more versions of how I see the world on my facebook notes, but cannot narrow on a topic. It could be random I suppose, but then surely I will be all over the map. Here is a list of potential topics, and their potential downfalls.<br /><br />Politics - I am sure to offend, and I mean seriously offend, some of my facebook friends with this one. That being said, I'm fairly sure it would be ongoing and fairly funny.<br /><br />Work - Well, one downfall of this is that Dr. Raymond is my Facebook friend, and therefore may run into my attempt of humor. Also, there would surely be some ribbing on my more geeky work friend (you know who you are!)<br /><br />Love life - a good topic indeed, when it's going on. At the moment, we have nil. And, I'm not currently willing to sacrifice on the dating front for the sake of comedy. (See my previous 30 dates in 30 days notes)<br /><br />Geekdom - I actually have a Sims2 city based on Downers Grove with DG characters, and they do have some outrageous adventures. I've thought about writing them with some editorial comment. This has potential for being pretty funny, but also creepy.<br /><br />Alright, let the ideas flow. I really need to write! And, make people laugh :PTeedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-84499305991855833652008-12-14T00:48:00.002-05:002009-06-17T22:29:49.945-04:005 years!<p>Monday, December 15th, 2008 marks my 5 year transplant anniversary. Some people may refer to this as a birthday. Every year I look up on UNOS various statistics regarding the biggest event of my life. Statistics are a crazy creature. Usually I find they are used to desensitize an event or a situation. I guess it depends on what side of them you are on. For example, if you read that there was a 6.7% unemployment rate in the US in November, does it mean much to you unless you or a close loved one is one of those unemployed people?</p><p>However, my statistical journey is somewhat different. I use it to remind me each year how lucky I am. I'm not sure if lucky is the correct word, but I'll use it for simplicity. The truth is the amount of self-preservation skills it takes to survive what I've done is astounding. I'm sure to some it seems very selfish at times, and part of surviving still revolves around letting that go. So, I'll apologize quickly if you ever felt I let you down, by not hanging out when you asked, or not helping out when needed, but please know that each day I have to make decisions that are more primal, and are driven by keeping my life very balanced, and keeping me very alive.</p><p>So, on with the stats:</p><p>In 2003, 1,085 people received a lung transplants in the United States. That year, 25,472 transplants of all types were performed in the US. Less than 5% of all transplants in the country that year were lung transplant. And I was one of them.</p><p>35 of those 2003 lung transplants were repeat transplants. I wonder if I'll be one of those one year. But, so far so good.</p><p>140 of those transplants were people my age, 18-34. The most lung transplants, 604, went to people age 50-64 years. 69 of the 140 in my age group were women, 71 were men.</p><p>About half of the people receiving lung transplants in 2003 are still alive. I am still one of them.</p><p>25 people my age had lung transplants at Duke University in 2003 and 2004 combined. I know a handful of them, but not all of them. 22 of them have Cystic Fibrosis. 1 had IPF, that is Andrew. 1 has "other", "other" being lymphangiomatosis. Jana, please correct my spelling if needed. I use had for IPF only, because Cystic Fibrosis and lymphangiomatosis don't go away. Occasionally, I'm reminded of that.</p><p>So, to those of my friends that haven't survived the journey we started together that year at Duke, I miss you and think of you often. I'm sure you are watching me from your place in heaven and have pumped all of your life-force into me. To those, I dedicate every moment whether it be fun, sad, serious, or silly - because we all had the same goal, of having more of those everyday moments.</p><p>-Theresa</p><p>All statistics, except employment, recovered from the UNOS database on 12/13/2008.</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-83945536541221047032008-08-31T23:07:00.002-04:002009-06-17T22:24:26.865-04:0030 Dates in 30 Days, Day 10, Date 5NOTE: This is a late recap of my lunch date with Brian on Thursday, August 28th.<br /><br />Lori set me up with, or really sent me the email of, a guy that was willing to participate in my dating challenge. We had a few pleasant emails and set a lunch date for Thursday at The Wycliffe House on campus. We had originally agreed to meet at 11:00, but then he moved it to 11:30 because his class would probably run late and he didn't want to risk standing me up. That was a good move, as his class didn't get out until right about then and I waited four minutes outside for him to arrive.<br /><br />He ordered the sandwich special of the day and I had one of their salads. I don't usually eat salad, but I found myself feeling jealous of Mike and Bart's salads on Tuesday when we all went to lunch. Brian and I decided to sit outside because I thought I'd be cold inside. Turns out I was pretty hot sitting outside, so he much have been steaming. But, he had agreed to sit there saying he's from James Island and can handle the heat. I still think in retrospect we would have been more comfortable sitting inside, but when I said that at the end he said, "Vitamin D prevents Rickets and Osteomalacia." Too bad I already have Osteoporosis so too late preventing it! :)<br /><br />We had a pretty geeky conversation about online chess, and Wired magazine, and the subject he's going to school for, Bioinformatics. Now Bioinformatics is something I think is so cool, and something I know almost nothing about since it's so new and SO complex - but I had read a little about it. Needless to say, I'm impressed with him intellectually. We talked a wee bit about my job. The conversation went well with appropriate breaks while eating. Then we had a little time left so he walked me back to my office and we sat on the benches in the courtyard (in the shade) and talked a little bit more.<br /><br />I told him a little about the 30 Dates in 30 Days and how I'd been writing a blog. He told me to feel free to embellish our date in order the make the blog funnier. The thing is, I'm sure if I did that it would be hilarious, but then everyone would believe me because of the dates so far, and if it got out that I'd made anything up then it would ruin my reputation as an aspiring blog writer :)<br /><br />I couldn't write this blog right after our date and then I had another date Thursday night, so I didn't have time then either, so please accept my apologies for not blogging this sooner.<br /><br />I emailed him after our date and asked if he had a good time, and to let me know if he wants to go out again. He answered that he did have a good time, but he answered "sure" to the part about going out again, and I'm not certain if he means "sure, I would like to go out again," or "Sure I'll let you know if I want to go out again." I guess I better ask him and find out.<br /><br />In other news, I lost the guy that was emailing me from the website. You remember, the "feirman" who likes "japaness" food. I emailed him Wednesday night to tell him that I couldn't have a date on noon Saturday because I had scheduled a meeting with my Dad at 10:00. I also told him that I don't think we are connecting very well over email I guess he didn't like that because he's not emailed again.<br /><br />Also, George has never called or text since last Saturday.<br /><br />There was one more date this night and I will write about it in a separate blog. :)Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-17056533185150625172008-08-26T22:35:00.001-04:002009-06-17T22:18:47.262-04:0030 Dates in 30 Days - Day 8, no date<p>Well I didn't have a date tonight, but you'll be glad to know I feel a lot better. Thanks for the nice messages about yesterday. </p><p>I have made some progress on finding a more dates though. I had more emails with my blind date on Thursday for lunch. He's awesome in email. Of course, he is a computer geek so I'd hope he could write a witty email. But, it's appreciated. So at 11:00 on Thursday we are going to lunch at the Wycliffe House.</p><p>Today I do believe I might have flirted with my new IT guy. I'm not sure though, but he did push my chair in for me after I sat back down in it. And I let him touch my squeezy stress fishy (see stress fishy's picture in my favorites).</p><p>Then remember bad grammar guy? We are going to lunch or something on Saturday, but I'm fairly sure now that he's not capable of writing a decent email. I just came out and asked him. He totally ignored my question and continued to do it. The last one asked me if I "like japaness???" I do actually, but for one Elizabeth's bad date story included a Japanese restaurant, and I just think that's too much for a first date. I really don't think there should be flying knives and fire at a first date. So, I'm not sure how to respond, but I think I'll just say I'd rather get some pasta. Yes, that's what I'll say.</p><p>I'll decide tomorrow whether to make a date with the IT guy. It may be a disaster, as what if it doesn't work out and then he won't support my work computer anymore. Doh!</p><p>So I'm four dates behind now. I'm still petitioning friends to find some dates. </p><p>Oh! I almost forgot!! I have a super awesome secret date scheduled for Thursday night! I'm so excited about it. But I shall not say a word... for now.</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-85402160057072235452008-08-25T23:13:00.003-04:002009-06-17T22:15:14.407-04:0030 Dates in 30 Days - Day 7, 30 Dates Mixer, no date<p>Tonight I realized that this 30 Dates thing isn't all fun and games. I didn't get any dates at the mixer and my feelings were hurt. I don't know if you know this about me, but I work really hard to not let my feelings get hurt. I almost never put myself in enough risk to get hurt, ya know? Some people may know me for years and not know it's possible for it to happen.</p><p>So this is what happened. I got to Red's and I was actually pretty excited about the night. I'd worn this little black dress that Jana gave me to work that was probably too short but nobody said anything. While I was at work I wore a black sweater over the top that went very well and covered up the spaghetti straps so I wouldn't feel naked at work. I wore some black sandals with a heal that hurt my feet but looked nice. I have a cut on my little toe now. I even wore makeup to work which is something I almost never do. </p><p>So I saw Brooke and the people from 95sx. They all thought I looked so cute. One of the girls Ashley that used to work at Market Street back before it sucked was there. We tried to form a strategy of who we'd approach at the bar. So, I went out there. The first couple of guys were married, and I knew that, so I went with the approach that they must have some single friends. I always introduce the radio station thing and kind of ride the wave of the 30 dates in 30 days. I didn't really think they'd get on the phone and call up one of their friends, so no big deal there.</p><p>Then I went back inside where the one of the other girls was talking to a few people. She had made a date with one of the guys and the other one had a date with Brooke. For some reason the guys are reluctant to play the game and make a date with someone else if they've already made one. So, no action there.</p><p>Then I went outside and sat down next to two guys. The one on the far end from me said hello and actually seemed nice for a second. The the one right next to me says, "I know what you're going to ask and the answer is no." So, for a second I played into that, "What do you think I'm going to ask?" I just assumed he knew about the 30 dates thing. He responds, "Well why don't you ask and then I'll tell you if you're right." And I say, "well you're the one that thinks you know, so just tell me what you think." He refuses and I get frustrated. I guess I felt like he was making fun of me. I don't really know why it bothered me. So, I was like "well never mind, I don't need to ask you anything I'll just go back inside." The farther guy says to the guy next to me, "You offended her that quickly?" I responded, "yep, it was that quick". So I went back inside and sat down with everyone else. But, it really bothered me. Why did it bother me so much? I think it was the combination of my first day at work and all that. My sister said perhaps I ended up at an asshole convention by accident.</p><p>Anyway I thought maybe I had overreacted and there wasn't anything to it. So I went back out to talk to those guys again. After all, I really did want to keep on track with the dates. So I told them I had planned to ask one of them to take me out on a date, and went through the usual about the 95sx and the 30 dates. I could see in their faces that they really hadn't thought I was going to ask anything like that. But instead of being cool, they started making really vulgar comments to the likes that even I, a proficient swearer and inappropriate joke teller, was offended. Things like well only if we can have sex or whatever, in not such nice words.</p><p>So I went back inside and sat with my friends for a bit, but I was pretty much disheartened. For one because this is supposed to be fun and not mean. And two because I'm feeling pretty undatable. And what really bothers me is, I don't care! I don't need any dates, I just wanted to have some fun. And instead, I feel like a girl who can't get a date to her senior prom.</p><p>Anyway, so that's my story. To end on a positive note, my friend Lori set me up to go out with guy she knows from work. We've emailed and I think we will have a lunch date this week. I think on Thursday. He wrote, "nothing like the occasional blind date to sharpen the conversational skills." I like that. Let ya know how it goes!</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-45584178481683581962008-08-24T22:19:00.001-04:002009-06-17T21:58:06.550-04:0030 Dates in 30 Days - Day 6, no date<p>No entertaining date stories today I'm afraid. I've plum run out of dates! Tomorrow I will attempt to catch up by making a lunch-time date or two during the next week. Being the second mixer, I do think that the date-getting process is will be much easier. I just have to strike before the other girls do. That last sentence reminded me of a snake in the grass :)</p><p>I did some online research on the intimidating woman factor. I think the most amusing passage came from this Christian site. <a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.crosswalk.com/singles/11532547/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.crosswalk.com/singles/11532547/</a></p><p>“But in my limited experience, when men describe women as intimidating, they are most often referring to a woman whose spirit is hard and unyielding. They are intimidated by her contentious attitude, by her ‘chew ‘em up and spit ‘em out’ attitude. Such a woman makes them wary.” - Carolyn McCulley</p><p>For the record, I never chew anything and the spit it out - I always swallow. haha. But seriously, if a guy is intimidated by me, he'll never get past my pets. My cat Ralph always sits on the couch in between me and any boy that might make it past my front door. He's about 26 lbs and I call him the Puma. And my sweet dog Marble turns into a vicious attack dog if any man approaches the hall toward my bedroom area, even to use the bathroom. So, good luck!</p><p>Oh yes, for a visual description on my first date, David, please refer to the Blue Collar comedian Larry the Cable guy. His accent almost perfectly imitates David's. They don't look that different either. But, David was not funny. Just imagine this guy saying, "these wings aren't hot at all." This YouTube video is him: <a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR4xdLOBsxo&feature=related" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR4xdLOBsxo&feature=related</a></p><p>Well, I'll let you know tomorrow after the mixer my dating prospects for next week. Hopefully after my first day at my new job I will still feel up to it.</p><p>I'm trying to decide if it crosses the line to bring my new Pulse pen on my dates, but I think it probably does, even for me. So for now you will just have to relive my dates from my memory and narrative version.</p><p>As most of you know, I've been pushing pretty hard to obtain some dates from friends of friends. During this exercise, it doesn't really matter if they are not my type. Right now, during this 30 dates, I just require them to be single, male, and like women. The rest i can navigate on my own :)</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-58195622547485641672008-08-23T15:34:00.001-04:002009-06-17T21:59:38.718-04:0030 Dates in 30 Days - Day 5, Date 4<p>I've just gotten back from my second date with George. This time I wasn't very impressed with him. It's possible that on Wednesday night I was happy that he wasn't as bad as David. Today, not so good. He did call right at 11:55 or so. He asked what I wanted to do and I said I'd like to go to Poe's and have a burger. He had told me on Wednesday that he'd never had food there, so since I always love their burgers I thought I'd introduce him to one. He came to get me around 1:15. I got home around 2:45, so the date lasted 90 minutes. I think that is my "not good date" time.</p><p>He picked me up and we drove the short drive to Sullivan's Island. We arrived at Poe's and it was packed. They had the "seat yourself" sign up even though that's nearly impossible to negotiate when it's so crowded. This is when I became annoyed with George. He's completely unassertive. I had to take over the seat finding process. </p><p>After we were seated we were talking and stuff but I just was pretty bored. I also was looking over at him and decided for certain I'm not attracted to him. He never really says anything funny. He wanted to hang out some more after lunch but I just wanted to go home. When we were leaving we ran into Ray from CSC. I think I was so happy to see Ray I gave him a huge hug. Ray must have thought I'd lost my mind.</p><p>Anyway he took me home. I thanked him for lunch and he asked if I wanted to go out again. I don't really think so this time but said maybe in a couple weeks when things cool off with the new job plus having more dates. Oh yeah, and he didn't pay me back like he insisted he would for Wednesday night. That's fine, it would have been too awkward anyway. </p><p>My friend and trainer Alicia says that I can be intimidating to men. I'm not really sure what that is about, but maybe I should explore it further.</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8052134454355561071.post-37455729237263591122008-08-23T09:24:00.003-04:002009-06-17T22:00:01.081-04:0030 Dates in 30 Days - Day 4, Rescheduled Date<p>Hello my friends! As the title indicates, I did reschedule Friday's date with George for Saturday afternoon. I had an exhausting last day in Pediatrics and didn't leave the office until 7. Plus the weather was horrible. I thought perhaps I'd go out and meet Brooke and everyone later in the night, but I was fast asleep by 8:30! All this dating is exhausting!!</p><p>But, I still have something humorous to write for you!! As you know my picture and email are on the 95sx website so that people can write me and ask me for a date. Nobody had done that until yesterday, which was not the best day, probably, for someone to do so. So, this guy with absolutely horrible grammar wrote me an email asking me for a date. Immediately I look him up on facebook (no account) and MySpace (of course). Well this guy has sent me random messages on MySpace on a number of occasions. What a loser. Anyway, I ponder the situation, and in the spirit of the program I say yes, sure we can go on a date. Now, this is one essential flaw of the 30 Date in 30 Days. Just because I'm doing it does not mean that I am desperate for dates. In fact, it's quite the opposite! I have very little faith in the male population. If I happen to meet one that I don't think is stupid which is not very often, then I pretty much assume that in the long run he's not going to stick around for my health issues. And you know, why should he? But anyway, back to my point, no I am not desperate to go out with anything walking around that happens to have a penis.</p><p>I've finished with the introductions, and I feel that the best way to show what I'm dealing with here is to actually share the email conversations. When I say, bad grammar, I don't think it's possible for me to describe it well enough without sharing it.</p><p>Emails:</p><p>Subject: i see your doing the 30dates in 30 days lets make a date</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 1:59 pm (him to me)</p><p>hey there! i live in summerville and im 5'11 dark blonde hair blue eyes. im a full time fierfighter and i also volunteer at a fire department as well. i would like to take u out on a date. i see that you are one of the lovely ladies doing to 30 dates in 30 days. i use to live in granville,il its near lasalle-peru,il. so i think we might have a few things the same. how are u liking it down here in charleston? i think we might have fun together who knows it might work out to where you would let me take u on a second date or we just become friends. hope to hear from u soon.robert gray</p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 2:43 pm (me to him)</p><p>Okay, we can go on a date. What day?Theresa</p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 2:49 pm (him to me)</p><p>i was thinking about next friday or saturday i dont have off till then and i thought it would give us time to talk and get to know each other a bit </p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 2:52 pm (me to him)</p><p>Hmm, you really want a prime time night, huh? That seems awful far away since I have to go out on dates every single night. But I'd consider Saturday afternoon since it's a first date.</p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 2:54 pm (him to me)who are u doing and what all do u like to do??? </p><p>----------*** who am I doing? wtf??*** (narrative)</p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 3:02 pm (me to him)</p><p>I don't really understand the first part of your questions. </p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 3:04 pm (him to me)</p><p>thats kool i just have class and work alot this week and im free on friday and saturday. would u wan t to chat on the phone till then?? what all do u like to do??</p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 3:05 pm (him to me)</p><p>sure type and trying to help a friends with some class work. what all do u like to do? would u wantto chat on the phone till our date?? </p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 4:18 pm (him to me)what do u like to do?? </p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 4:56 pm (him to me)</p><p>u want to get together saturday afternoon then?? </p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 5:18 pm (me to him)</p><p>Yes. Saturday afternoon will work. I won't have time to talk on the phone before then. I just got a promotion and will be very busy at work and also will being going on other dates every night. So, email you next Friday and see what you have in mind to do. I'm afraid you're on your own as to thinking of something original to do.Theresa</p><p>----------</p><p>Date:Fri, 22 Aug 2008 5:31 pm (him to me)</p><p>ok i have a few things in mind that we could do. </p><p>----------</p><p>Okay, that was the end of the email correspondence. That last email is really on the verge of being perverse I think. Maybe not, maybe I'm too hard on the guy. So that is one for next week. The next 95sx mixer is Monday. So, I'll have to catch up on some dates somehow. I guess what really bothers me about this dude is that he writes like he's some high school kid texting or writing on IM. "kool?" give me a break. Makes me think he tries to hook up with minors in his spare time. He's writing an email to someone he knows is a 31 year old accountant, the least he could do is write properly. But at the very least you will have something amusing to read in the aftermath! Also, for the record, Friday and Saturday night dates will be reserved for really hot dudes or second dates. </p><p>Today George is supposed to call me around noon and we'll have lunch. He's insisting on paying me back with cash in addition to taking me out today. Let ya know how it goes!</p>Teedahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08687418255962268019noreply@blogger.com0