What I learned in 2008

Folks, we are hours away from greeting 2009. This morning Good Morning America showed all the wackos that spent the night in Time Square for tonight’s big celebration. I call them wackos because its butt freakin’ cold in NYC, and you’d have to be a nut job to spend the night on NYC streets! But that’s just me.
Anyway, 2008 is leaving us and 2009 is well on its way. Now, I could spend this post reviewing all the good/bad things that happened to the world in 2008. But I’m fully aware you lived through 2008 too, so no need to rehash the past. For that reason, I decided to share the things I learned throughout 2008. Again, the title of this blog is: This is my world. SO here are the top things I’ve learned this year.

First, the bad…
1. Even though you accept a date invitation it doesn’t mean you’ll actually be taken out on a date. This was a REAL eye opener!
2. I can only go three days, four days tops, with less than six hours of sleep. If I go over four days I become irritable, dizzy, gain a massive headache, and have the erg to hit everyone with a baseball bat.
3. The fine people at Starbucks make a difference in my life. I am placing this under bad because the fine people at Starbucks are expensive friends.
4. Overpriced extended cable is nice. Last night was a lonely night with only 10 channels, but then Eli Stone came on and I was happy.

Now, the good…
1. I am the multi-task/juggle queen. This year I juggled- work, school, church, aerobics, training for a half marathon, Relay for Life, and being somewhat social.
2. Despite what a certain guidance counselor told me in high school, I am smart.
3. Weekend trips are just as fun as long trips.
4. Blog stalking can help you reconnect with old college friends.
5. I can travel international all by myself.

As you can see, I learned quite a bit in 2008. I’m sure there’s more but at 8:11am I can’t seem to think of anything else. Of course this list excludes all the fancy MBA crap I learned too.
Blogger World I'd like to wish you a Happy New Year!

Holy Cow!

Last night was my last night of extended overpriced cable. I told you guys my cable plan, right? I ordered the extended overpriced cable package for the month of December, that way I could watch all the cheesy ABC Family and Lifetime Christmas movies. Then after Christmas I was going to downgrade to the unexcited 24 channel package. Don’t laugh! I’m saving $34 a month by downgrading and I was able to see all my Christmas movies. I watched two super cute Christmas movies on Lifetime, and no one was anorexic or a teenage mother in either movie. I honestly didn’t know Lifetime made movies without those storylines.

So how did I spend my last night with the overpriced cable? I watched a marathon of Jon & Kate Plus 8 on TLC. Have you guys seen this show? It’s about Jon and Kate who have eight kids. Yes, you read right eight kids. They have a set of twins (the oldest) and then they have sextuplets- which brings their child count to eight. Before the overpriced cable was installed I had only seen the show a few times. However, last night’s marathon caught me up on the whole season. I cannot imagine having eight kids. Oh.My.Word! I mean, my grandma had seven kids but they were different ages. I don’t know about having two the same age and six the same age. Also, how do they tell the kids apart? Ok, so they look different now, but when they were babies I’m sure they didn’t. I would have to label them for the first few months so I could tell them apart.

I suppose watching four hours of Jon & Kate Plus 8 reaffirmed that I do not want eight kids. I didn’t ever want eight kids, but now I know for sure I don’t want eight kids. Unless TLC is going to do a show about my family and pay for us to go to Disney World, Hawaii, fly me to NYC for a make-over, and give us lots of free toys. Now if that’s the case I might be willing to pop out eight kids. But only if I get my own show!

Christmas Vacation

Blogger World, I survived Christmas. I survived the hustle and bustle of seeing the whole family, attending parties, eating food, and of course- opening all my presents. It was a world whim Christmas. This year I was only able to spend two days in Arkansas, opposed to the normal week. I had to be a big girl and come back to work. Responsibility is not all that it’s cracked up to be-just FYI. Even though my time was short with the fam, I still managed to have some highlights. Here are the highlights from Ok Chick’s Christmas…

Before we headed to Arkansas Sister #1, Sister #2, and myself opened presents with our parents. The highlight at this event was the present my mom received from my dad. My father bought my mom some Wrangle type jeans-you know the cowgirl jeans. This is funny for many reasons: #1- my mom has NEVER worn Wrangle cowgirl type jeans-NEVER! None of us own cowboy boots. #2- my dad bought the jeans two sizes too big. They've been married for a jillion years-he should know her size by now. #3- my dad admitted that he went to Langston’s because the mall was way too crowded and he didn’t want to fight the crowd.

The first party we attended in Arkansas was my great grandma’s Christmas party. The party was held at a local restaurant, The Broadway. When the waitress brought out the drinks I noticed something floating in my grandpa’s drink. I decided to grab my unused somewhat dirty spoon to fish out the floating substance. When I finally fished out the ice I realized a cigarette ash was stuck to the ice. Sister #1, Sister #2, and I laughed and tried to take a picture of the dirty cigarette ash ice. I figured it was a blog worthily story. However, the picture didn’t come out. But then after a couple seconds I realized if there were cigarette ashes in my grandpa’s drink, there’s a good chance some were in my drink. Needless to say, I didn’t drink anything the whole night.

Christmas Day was Christmas with my dad’s family. Since that side of the family is huge, we play Dirty Santa. Last year was the first year to play Dirty Santa, so everyone was learning the game. But this year, the gloves were off and it was every man for himself. For example, The Cousin stole a present from our great grandma. Our great grandma didn’t quite understand the game, and didn’t appreciate The Cousin stealing her Arbonne Body Wash. I thought it was hilarious! After I realized we were playing for real I got mean. I actually stole two different presents from the same aunt because she liked the gifts. One of the present, Razorback towels, I was hoping to keep, but someone stole them from me.

So…two days in Arkansas, a dozen presents opened, 1,000,000 calories consumed, and a couple verbal fights with my Garmin lady, and its back to the real world. Next year I’m wishing for a Christmas break that last two weeks.

Merry Christmas

Dear Blogger World,

Ok Chick is about to leave for the Land of the Hogs. But first I would like to wish everyone Merry Christmas! Have a safe and happy holidays. Enjoy the time with your family and friends.

xoxo,

Ok Chick

Ramblings...

Once again it’s time for Ok Chick’s annual (this being the second year) Christmas Ramblings; because it’s not like you haven’t had enough Christmas cheer shoved down your throat. Please enjoy the good, bad, and ugly of this holiday season through OK Chick’s eyes.

I am in a very Christmas mood this season. I’ve had my decorations up since the weekend AFTER Thanksgiving, I’ve made all my neighbors homemade goodies, I sent out a handful of Christmas cards, Sister #1 and Sister #2 decorated the outside of my residence, and I’ve attended many Christmas parties. See, I feeling the Christmas cheer! Side note: Sister #1 and Sister #2 spent an entire Saturday decorating the outside of our abode. The lights worked one night and one night only. We look like one of those redneck families that have Christmas lights around their house way past Christmas.

Yesterday I delivered my first Christmas present. I gave my friend Cheddar Bacon Popcorn. Have you had this stuff? SO GOOD! I highly recommend this favor. He gave me some Snowmen decorations. I’m a big fan of Snowmen. Snowmen decorations are great because you can leave them out until February. Therefore, you don’t feel that rush and pressure to put up all the Christmas decorations the day after Christmas. I mean, what’s more depressing then taking down all the Christmas decorations? Ok, so I can think of a few things that are more depressing, but you have to admit taking down Christmas decorations is pretty high on the list?

My department at work is not feeling the Christmas cheer. My department is the ONLY department that hasn’t had a Christmas get together during lunch or after hours. The other departments have had a lunch, a snack day, or happy hour in honor of this season. However, not mine. Nope, we like to work. Today, I tried to spread the cheer by bringing cookies. It didn’t work. I mean, they ate the cookies but no cheer. A fellow coworker and I decided tomorrow we’d have a snack day to celebrate this season, since our boss won’t take us to lunch. No one wants to participate. So now my coworker and I are bringing food for the whole department. No one wants to bring anything but I’m sure they’ll eat it tomorrow. I’m very tempted to stand by the door of the breakroom and pull a Soup Nazi on all their butts- NO FOOD FOR YOU!

You know that Christmas song that says…oh the weather outside is frightful? Well, that couldn’t be truer here in OK. This week has been cold. Down right cold, stinkin’ cold! For example, Monday I went to lunch with coworkers. I realized half way through lunch that I still had my coat and scarf on, while I was eating. I wasn’t eating outside; I was in a restaurant that had heat! Now, I realize I do not live way up north like my friend TC. So really, I have no idea what cold is so I’ll shut my trap on this subject.

Sister #1 and I have scored us a big catering job. It’s this weekend. We’re feeding 70 people at a fancy Christmas party. Let’s pray that this is a success. I’ve spent the past three nights making meatballs. We made 348 meatballs. I now hate meatballs, and I will never make them again. The plus side, we’re going to be serving food to rich people-hopefully we’ll get more gigs. Also, all the cooking has made it easy for me not to snack at night.

Blogger World, it’s time for me to wrap up this year’s Christmas Ramblings. I would like to close with a famous quote from that famous Christmas poem…"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

A Christmas blast from the past

This week’s Christmas Blast from the past comes to us from Sister #1. It’s actually one of my FAVORITE stories about Sister #1.

I can’t remember the year but I think our ages were- 14, 12, and 4? But, this was the Christmas Sister #1 and I wanted Fossil watches. It was all craze. Everyone was wearing a watch. I guess telling time became important that year.

Fast forward to Christmas morning in Arkansas: Everyone was in my grandma’s living room looking at the opened gifts. Sister #2 was playing with her 30 new toys, I was examining every thing I received, and Sister #1 was quietly sitting in the corner of the living room looking at her presents. My mom noticed Sister #1 started stacking her presents in a pile…

Mom- What’s that stack for?
Sister #1- In a serious tone- This is everything I am taking back to the store.
Mom- What?
Me- Laughing-You can’t return a Bible!
Sister #1- Yes, I can. I already have one, they say the same thing.
Mom- Sister #1 you cannot return all your presents. Did you not like anything this year? How about the cookbook? It shows you how to make cookies.
Sister #1- Mom, I asked for a watch, a red sweater, and a pair of pants. I’ve done the math. I can take everything back and buy the things I wanted.
Mom- You didn’t get a watch?
Sister #1- NO
Mom- Ok Chick, did you get a watch?
Me- No. Hey wait a minute; I wanted a watch for Christmas.
My mom gets up and walks to their bedroom at my grandma’s house, then walks past us and enters the kitchen to speak to my dad. After their brief, yet quiet conversation she goes back to the bedrooms. A few minutes later she comes into the living room with a weird look on her face.
Mom- Girls, Santa must have forgotten your watches. I’m sure he left them under the tree in OK. I bet he forgot we were going to be in Arkansas.
Sister #2- Santa forgot some of our presents? I get something else?
Sister #1- So I got a watch?
Mom- Yes.
Sister #2- I get another present?
Sister #1- Ok, I’ll keep some of this stuff. I’m still taking back the Bible.
Mom- You will not take back your Bible.
Sister #2- DO I GET ANOTHER PRESENT?
Me- Laughing-You do now.

When we got home from Arkansas my mom was right...Santa had left two Fossil watches under the tree. And since Santa is a fair Santa, he even left something for Sister #2.

8 Things about Me

8 TV Shows I Watch
1. 90210-new
2. Privileged
3. Food Network- all the shows
4. Grey’s Anatomy
5. Biggest Loser
6. CSI Las Vegas
7. Cosby’s
8. Still Standing
----------------------------------------
8 Favorite Restaurants
1. Cheevers
2. Saturn Grill
3. Jason’s Deli
4. Maxine’s
5. Thai Place
6. Starbucks
7. Sauced
8. Zorba’s
----------------------------------------
8 Things That Happened Today
1. Forgot to wash the shampoo & conditioner out of my hair.
2. Went to work hung over on Tylenol PM.
3. Ate birthday lunch with my coworkers.
4. Solved a major crisis at work.
5. Went to aerobics.
6. Watched TV.
7. Made 100 meatballs.
8. Smashed 150 candy canes.
--------------------------------------------------
8 Things I Look Forward To
1. Summer
2. Christmas with the whole family.
3. Retirement
4. Christmas when my sisters and I have our own families.
5. Beating my dad at a race.
6. My corner office- I hope to have someday.
7. Sister #1 and I’s Second Chance Party.
8. My hair appointment. I haven’t made the appointment yet, but I looking forward to getting my hair cut!
------------------------------------------------
8 Things I Wish For
1. A healthy and happy family.
2. Everyone I know and don’t know to be in heaven.
3. A vacation
4. Tickets to OU/Tx game
5. A million bucks
6. A date
7. Write a book
8. World Peace
-----------------------------------------------
8 People I Tag
1. TC
2. Renee
3. Bone
4. Emily
5. LB
6. DJ
7. Carrie
8. Girls Journey

Friday Fun Fact

Today’s Friday Fun Fact is going to be my new Favorites List. As I’ve said before, my list is constantly changing, and I feel that it is important to keep you guys informed. Also, I didn’t have any facts for today, so it was either talk about this or my breakfast.

1) I love this song! This song is the new favorite. It’s taken the place of Coldplay, which took the place of Chris Brown. During Thanksgiving, Sister #2 introduced the song to me. It’s currently her favorite too. I think Beyonce says it best….If you liked it then you shoulda put a ring on it. Amen, Beyonce, Amen!

2) It’s winter here in OKC. The winter weather makes it not so fun to run outside. Well, unless you have these cool pants. Last year I got these for Christmas. I love them for a few reasons. The first reason is they’re long. It’s hard to find running/exercise pants that are long enough for my tall self. The second reason is they make my legs look long and skinny. Hurry, everyone rush out and buy these pants!

3) I received this Bible when I graduated with my MBA. Recently, I’ve been reading it and I love it! It’s so easy to read. I get it. I get the whole Bible. Ok, not really but I’m working on understanding the big book.

4) As I’ve mentioned a few times, I got cable. It was a big deal for my household, which is me and Sister #1. I’m throwing away vacation money to have channels like The Food Network and ABC Family. My current favorite channel is ABC Family. Did you know that ABC Family plays Christmas movies up until Christmas Day? It’s true. Technically, I knew this information before I had cable. During Christmas time, my family would watch ABC Family when we were visiting my grandparents in Ark. My grandma loved Christmas movies.

5) I have discovered a new fruit- Pears. Who would have thought fresh pears would be so good? When I was a kid my mom would serve us canned pears, but fresh are so much better. I recommend everyone have a fresh pear this season. Oh and if you want to get real creative add some Goat Cheese with your Pear. It’s amazing. The Food Network gave me that tip!

There you have, the lastest greatest Favorites List.

A Christmas blast from the past

The year was 1994, or 1995, or maybe it was 1996? Well the year isn’t important. The important part is it was a week before Christmas and I was in high school. This particular year I wanted a blue jean jacket; a stylish blue jean jacket from Express. It’s what all the cool kids were wearing at the time. Actually, they’d been wearing it for a year but I was always two steps behind everyone.

One thing you should know about young OK Chick is I could not stand the wait of Christmas. It literally killed me knowing that presents were under the tree waiting for me. I usually killed the curiosity a couple ways:

1. I would snoop through every closet, bedroom, and attic to find all my presents.

When I got older and wiser I graduated to a lazier/sneakier approach….

2. I would wait until presents were actually wrapped and placed under the tree. When my parents would leave the house I would carefully open each present, see what I was getting, rewrap the present and place it back under the tree. If you ask me this was a brilliant idea. Stop judging me! I said I could not stand the wait. Did you think I was lying?

Ok, back to my story. So it was 1994, 1995, or 1996 and it was the week before Christmas. Of course, I had already opened/rewrapped all my presents under the tree and found the blue jean jacket from Express. I was way excited!
It was a school day morning. My parents had gone to work, Sister #1 was already at school, and Sister #2 was off to the baby-sitter, which left me home alone getting ready for school. On this day I had picked out a great outfit for school, but the outfit still needed something. It needed the blue jean jacket from Express; the one that was sitting under the tree. You have to understand, the outfit would be the greatest outfit in the whole wide world with that blue jean jacket. I sat on my bed debating a few scenarios:

1.Save the outfit for after Christmas, when I had the blue jean jacket.
2.Wear the outfit without the blue jean jacket.
3.Open up the blue jean jack, wearing it; and then rewrap the jacket before my parents got home.

All the scenarios were possible options. Scenario number 1 and 2 were safe and the right thing to do; and scenario 3 was risky. What if I spill something on the jacket or worse mom caught me wearing it? It was toss up, but I finally decided. So what scenario did young OK Chick decide? Duh! You know I went with Scenario 3. It was the greatest outfit in the whole wide world! I needed the blue jean jacket. One week before Christmas I actually wore one of my Christmas presents and rewrapped it without my parents knowing. This was also the day I stopped opening presents and rewrapping them. Maybe I’d matured, maybe I wanted to be surprised, or maybe I thought I better be good before Santa stops coming to my house-FOR LIFE. Say what you want, but that outfit was awesome.

Keep the change ya filthy animal!

Last night I was watching my new cable. As I was channel surfing I flipped past Home Alone. Now, how can you flip past Home Alone? You can’t, especially during Christmas. So for about thirty minutes I watched Home Alone. Blogger World, I’m happy to report that I can still recite the movie. I might not be able to remember all my computer passwords, but dang it- I can recite lines from Home Alone! Folks, that is a memory working at it’s finest.

In honor of Home Alone being an awesome movie, I would like everyone to try to use my favorite line from the movie in conversation....

I'm gonna give you to the count of 10, to get your lying, yellow, no-good keister off my property, before I pump your guts full of lead!

Good luck!

Friday Fun Fact

Saturday is Microwave Oven Day. Blogger World, I don't know about you, but I use my microwave very often. Actually, I used about an hour ago to warm up my lunch; like I said I use it often. A couple facts on the Microwave Oven....

1. Discovered by Percy Spencer while he was building magnetrons for radar sets with the company Raytheon.
2. The first microwave oven was 6 ft all and weighted over 700lbs, and it cost $5,000. Geez, that's a down payment for a Ford Focus!
3. The first food cooked in the microwave was popcorn.
4. It's estimated that 90% of American households own microwave ovens.

Now folks, this is why you read my Friday Fun Facts; you just never know what kind of crap I'm going to post. Happy Friday!

"Find a venue, overorder on the drinks, bulk buy the guacamole"

Doesn’t it seem kind of early for Christmas parties? Yes? Well, apparently not. Today is my office’s Christmas party. Woo Hoo! I can’t think of anything more I'd love to do, than spend quality off the clock time with my coworkers.

Ok, I really can’t complain about this year’s party. See, my party starts mid-day, which means I didn’t have to find a date. As a Dating Dummy this news is very exciting. No stress over finding the perfect social date. No stress over the perfect cocktail dress. No stress over entertaining the perfect social date during the party. Essentially, I have had a stress free pre-party time. It’s been magnificent! For all you single people out in Blogger World, I leave you with this mature phrase….

Nana-nana-boo-boo I didn’t have to find a Christmas party date and youuuu do!

Times Up

I have to say the Year of Yes started out with a bang. I had a guy ask me out three days after we declared 2008 the Year of Yes. Also, on that day another guy asked me out. THEN another guy asked me out a week after guy #1 and guy #2 asked me out! Can you believe it? Three different guys asked me out on dates. Oh, and these weren’t bad guys, they were cool guys. It wasn’t like I was gritting my teeth to say yes. I was saying yes happily! In my eyes, it appeared that the Year of Yes had been a fantastic decision! I was starting to think I had actually stirred myself in the right direction for dating.

This is a quote, rather long quote, from a post I wrote last year. One year ago, Holly and I declared 2008 the Year of Yes. We agreed that for the whole year we would say yes to all dates that came our way. Well time is up on YOY. Since I haven’t chatted about YOY in a few months, I thought I would do a quick recap of the past year.

Relationship Status at beginning- Single
Relationship Statue at end- Single

THE END…

As you can see YOY wasn’t quite the success I had intended. Sure, I got a couple dates, but nothing big. Ok, so I did date Guy #3 for some time, but other than that nothing. I have better success when I’m not going around saying yes to everything. I suppose next year I could say no to everything. I’m kidding, no need to flood my comment box. Who knows what next year will bring, but YOY was fun.

Bring on the Christmas music...

I'm officially in Christmas mode. My tree is up, presents bought, everything is wrapped, and placed under my tree. I'm way ahead of the game this year. Currently, I'm watching a Christmas movie on ABC Family. Last week I caved and got cable, and I totally love it! Anyway, since it is Dec. 1st, I am allowed to watch Christmas movies and be all cheery. The only thing I haven't finished this season is Christmas cards. My mom does Christmas cards every year, and she always includes a picture of "the girls"- as we are known in our family. I would like to preview this years Christmas Card picture. This year the whole family is in the picture. I would like to thank The Cousin for taking such a wonderful picture of my goofy family.

I'm thankful for...

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Depsite what you think, it's not Christmas. No, Thanksgiving. I hope this isn't a surprise to anyone.
Since Thanksgiving is a great time of giving thanks. I thought I would honor Thanksgiving by sharing my...Thankful List.

1. These people....
These people, or otherwise called my family, put up with me, support me, run with me, fix things at my house, worry when I fly to Japan, and tell me I can pass my MBA accounting final when I think I can't.
2. Starbucks...
They wake me up when I come to work dragging. Today, the Starbucks by my office was closed-as in the doors are shut forever. It was a sad, sad morning. I said a four letter word in their honor of being gone.

3. H&M...

H&M, I only get to visit you once or twice a year, but it's a real treat when it happens. This is the first H&M I found in Tokyo. I'm pretty sure my eyes sparkled when I saw this H&M.

4. Running Shoes...

I'm very thankful for my running shoes. I'm sure Sister #1 is thankful for these shoes as well. You see, if I haven't ran in a couple days I get annoyed, frustrated, and angry. It's always better for everyone if I run a at least three times a week. These shoes make it possible.

5. Fiber One Bars...
You didn't think I forgot about these, did you? Ahh. I am very thankful for these. They have gotten me through many starving attacks. I would say at least 4 a week.

Blogger World, Happy Thanksgiving!

Weekend Update

Blogger World, it was another crazy jammed pack weekend. It’s all part of OK Chick’s living in the fast lane, or not.

Friday
Friday night I had a dinner party. I love saying the phrase- dinner party. It makes me feel so Pottery Barnish and sleek. Granted, I was still dressed in my smelly aerobics clothes when guest arrived, so I didn’t exactly look like the people in the catalog. However, the food was good and that’s what people care about. I served my guest stuffed chicken breast, green beans, rolls, salad, and apple pie.

Saturday
Folks, this is where is gets a tab busy. I’m just going to warn you, I have the ability to accomplish more in one day, than most people accomplish in a weekend. It’s a gift.
First off, I started my Saturday with two aerobics classes. No, I’m not crazy. At aerobics we are having a contest, and I’m trying to win. They are giving away a cute bag, and I need a new cute bag.
After all my calorie burning and errands running, Sister #1 and I headed to Hometown, USA to pick up some basketball tickets. As we were driving to Hometown, we got sidetracked. Ok, I got sidetracked. This weekend I was in the market for a new kitchen table. Since I was driving by so many furniture stores, I stopped at one to browse at their selection. As luck would have it, the first store had exactly what I waited. I found and purchased my new kitchen table in less than 30 minutes.
Finally, Sister #1 and I made it to Hometown, USA. We ate a quick lunch with the fam and rushed off to Norman for some basketball. Since OU was playing a no name school my dad graciously gave Sister #1 and I his tickets. The game turned out to be a close exciting game. I don’t know if that’s good for OU, but it was good for us fans.
When the game was over, Sister #1 and I hiked through the parking lot to a tailgate party. My coworkers were having a huge football tailgate party, which included a big cook-off. Sister #1 and I chatted with my coworkers and ate way too much food. We dined on ribs, brisket, goat, sausage, potato fries, pulled pork sandwiches, and most important- cookies. See, now you know why I did the two aerobics classes.

Sunday
Sunday was my typical Sunday. I went to church, cleaned house, and read the paper. I did have a small amount of excitement on Sunday. My excitement took place at the grocery store. I saved over $43 with my coupons. I know $43! You know that’s a sweater at Gap, right?

There you have it...OK Chick’s weekend in the fast lane.

Friday Fun Fact

Today’s Friday Fun Fact is an odd one, odder than normal. I discovered today, November 21, is the 36 annual World Hello Day. World Hello Day was begun in response to the conflict between Egypt and Israel in the fall of 1973. Since then, World Hello Day has been observed by people in 180 countries.

To participate in World Hello Day all you need to do is say hello to ten people. Sounds simiply enough to me. You know, I kind of like this idea of a World Hello Day. If anything it makes us speak to each other instead of txt messaging everything. Also, do you remember that day Starbucks told me if I just said hello I might get a date? See this could be a way for me, or you, to get a date. I think I will participate this year. Therefore, in honor of World Hello Day I would like to say- Hello Blogger World.

Ramblings...

Today my friends, is a gobble gobble Ramblings. Yeah, that sounded cuter in my head-now it just sounds dumb. Anyway, on to the Ramblings…

My normal work radio station has started playing Christmas music 24/7. They began Christmas music 24/7 this morning. Blogger World, you know nothing pisses me off more than Christmas music being played 24/7-way before Christmas. Don’t get me wrong, I like Christmas music. I love Jingle Bell Rock like everyone else. But, how about we enjoy Thanksgiving before Christmas is shoved down our throats? I like to celebrate one holiday at a time, and I like Thanksgiving before Christmas. If I were elected president, I would make a law that no one could play Christmas music until the day after Thanksgiving.

Oh speaking of the day after Thanksgiving, Sister #1 and I have already planned our Black Friday shopping. My coworker sent me a website that has collected ads from many different stores. I would like everyone to check out CVS’s ad. They are giving away free stuff. I’m so going there. Hey, we are in a recession, I need all the free stuff I can find.

Tonight, I am teaching a class. A coworker has asked me to teach his class tonight. I guess he thinks I’m real smart, and have lots of knowledge about my job. I’m taking the Burt Smith approach to class- handing out candy. If I’m really bad, at least the audience will be buzzing with a sugar high.

I would like to dedicate Daniel Powter’s Had a Bad Day to the following people:
1) Automotive CEOs-better luck next time. Word to the wise, don’t come begging for money when you flew to the meeting on A PRIVATE JET! Goofballs! You could have at least flown commercial.

2) However, at least the goofball CEOs didn’t lose a tool belt in outer space. I have two hundred bucks that says this will be her first and last space mission. Actually, I have no idea if this is her first mission, for all I know she’s a regular out there.

Blogger World, I'm Rambled out. Until next time....

Dude, Where's My Car???

Today, I had lunch with my wonderful friend Holly. She’s currently taking a week long sabbatical and made time to meet me at the mall for a tasty lunch.
Our lunch was fantastic. Holly brought me a piece of pie, chocolate covered pretzels, and $8. The $8 was from a garage sale; I usually don’t make my friends pay to have lunch with me.

After lunch Holly and I exited the mall together. When I walked over to where I thought my car was parked I found a red BMW in its place. Needless to say, that’s not my car. I then walked a row over, didn’t see my car. I walked one more row, still not my car. I turned and walked back through the rows, incase I missed my vehicle. Nope, nothing, NO CAR. I guess you could say I might have started to panic at this point. It’s not that I thought my car was stolen. No, I was freaking out because I had lost my car. I hate to admit this, but I’ve done this before. I have no idea why I cannot keep up with my car after lunch at this certain mall parking lot. I keep up with my car at other parking lots- Target, Old Navy, Wally World…you know places with big parking lots. However, at this certain mall, after lunch, I lose my car. Anyway, I ALWAYS find my car, like I did today; it just takes a few extra laps. And I always walk away feeling stupid and annoyed. The positive spin to all this? I burned off the chocolate covered pretzels before I went back to work.

Stop judging me. I know, I’m not the only one who has lost their car in a parking lot. Shut-up you are all lying!

Weekend Update

Folks, it’s happened again. OK Chick had another fun weekend. I’m on a roll!

Friday
Road trip! Sister #1, Sister #2, and I left Friday afternoon for the great state of Arkansas. The land of the hogs. Although, the hogs had a by that weekend so there was no hog watching for my family. Instead most of the whole family (the whole stinkin’ family not just my family) met in LR for a wedding. Yes, another wedding where I had to provide a gift.
One of our aunt/uncles lives in LR so the Sisters and I crashed at their house for the weekend, while my parents stayed with another aunt/uncle. After the Sisters and I arrived in Little Rock it was all fun and games, literally. We had an intense game of LCR, Skip-Bo, eating pretend fried chicken, and eating chocolate fondue (the real stuff) with our kid cousins

Saturday
My five year old cousin woke us up at the butt crack of dawn. I really can’t get mad at her for the early morning wake up call. Sister #1 and I did the same thing to her dad when we were kids; expect Sister #1 and I were more obnoxious with our wake up calls.
Since I was up so early I decided to go for my long weekly run. Oh my goodness. Little Rock has some HILLS! I’m not talking little Oklahoma hills; I’m talking huge Arkansas hills. Did I mention they were big hills?
Needless to say, it was hard and I thought a couple times my heart was going to pop out of my chest.

As I said earlier, the family was in town for a wedding. My second cousin was getting married. Yes, I know my second cousins. I also know my third cousins, but we just call them kin folks. Most of my family attended the wedding. When I say my family, I’m referring to all my dad’s brothers and their families-the WHOLE family. There were probably about 15 of us in total.
The wedding was a typical wedding…you know everyone looked beautiful, blah, blah. My cousin was the groom, so he and all my other cousins looked like penguins.
The reception, which is always my favorite part of weddings, was held in a country club. I will say the reception was nice, good food, and the wedding cake was tasty! But that’s all I can say about the reception. An hour into the reception my family disappeared. See my uncle is a member of the country club where the reception was held, so we all snuck away to go sit in the bar. Yes, leave it to my family to spend a good chunk of a reception to sit in a bar. But hey, at least we were together, and that’s what being a family is about, right? It was actually pretty fun- a great bonding experience.

Sunday
After good-byes to everyone in Arkansas, it was back to Oklahoma. When Sister #1 and I made it home we had zero time to rest or unpack. Actually, we had exactly one hour to get dressed and ready for our final weekend event, Coldplay concert.

What a great concert. Coldplay put on an awesome two hour show. This was the second time I’d seen Coldplay in concert and they did not disappoint. I highly recommend seeing them in concert, you will not be disappointed!

Blogger World, another weekend has come and gone. It was a good weekend. I had a great time hanging out with my cousins/aunts/uncles, eating good food, running freakin' mountains, and road tripping it with my Sisters.

Quote of the Day

Today’s Quote of the Day goes to my aunt Bettye…

“I just can’t get over how beautiful you girls look.”

Sister #1’s response:

“Yeah, that’s what happens when you shower, fix your hair, and wear make-up."


* I suppose the whole "dolled up" thing really does make a difference in my appearance. I guess I could try it while I'm in Arkansas.

Friday Fun Facts

Friday Fun Fact is brought to you by the music world. Today someone in music history is celebrating a birthday. Anni-Frid Synni Lyngstad, better known as Frida- from the group ABBA, is celebrating a birthday. Actually, she’s celebrating her birthday tomorrow, but close enough. I bet you are wondering what ever happen to Frida? Or maybe you are wondering if Frida was really in ABBA? She was by the way, I looked on their website. Since Frida isn’t singing disco hits anymore, this is what she does to pass the time….


Today she leads a low-key life, devoting herself to charity work. However, Frida has guested on records by other artists: her most recent recording was the lead vocal on the song ‘The Sun Will Shine Again’, included on former Deep Purple keyboard player Jon Lord’s 2004 album Beyond The Notes.

Right. I'm going to be honest, I have no idea who any of these people are? Deep Purple? Yeah, moving on….

Fact number two is something I do know! On this day, back in 1980, Blondie had the number song. Any guesses on the song? I’ll wait……………………………………..
No, you’re all wrong, its Tide is High. This happens to be one of my favorite songs of all time. In closing, let’s all take a minute to sway back and forth to Tide is High. You might not know this but Blondie is a 12 time Grammy winner. Yup, saw it on YouTuc


Happy Friday Blogger World!

Happy Birthday Sister #1

Blogger World, I would like to introduce you to Sister #1 (ignore me in this picture, you know me). Sure, I’ve talked about her, but I don’t know if I have fully introduced you to her. Today marks a special day for Sister #1. It’s her birthday, her 25th birthday to be exact. Since, I sucked as a sister last year and didn’t post her a birthday dedication; I figured this year I would do a grand birthday dedication. Folks, let me introduce you to one of my awesome sisters.

First of all let’s just get it out in the open; Sister #1 is way cooler than me. I’m secure enough to admit that fact. If you know her, you’d agree with me 100%. She’s more laid back, funnier, nice to everyone, and a better cook than me. People generally like Sister #1 better, which I’m happy. I don’t want sisters that no one likes.

Second, Sister #1 has impeccable taste when it comes to shoes and purses. Due to Sister #1 being short, she can wear fun heals-which she does…everyday.

Third, Sister #1 has a best friend. I don’t think it odd that she has a best friend, so don’t think that’s where I’m going with this point. But not many people can say they’ve had their best friend since kindergarten. Yeah, she’s had her BFF for 20 years. After fives years of their friendship, I finally accepted BFF as another sister.

Fourth, Sister #1 is daring. I guess a good example of this... is when she decided to play daredevil. Sister #1 and I were riding our bikes home from the swimming pool; my mom and Sister #2 were following us in the family mini-van. The security guard bar was going down, because I had just ridden my bike through the security stand. Sister #1 thought she could get under the bar before it went completely down. Nope. It went down, and fell on top of her back. It’s funny because it knocked her off her bike, causing her to roll into the ditch. My mom had to stop the mini-van to make sure she wasn’t injured, and to get her out of the ditch. See, she’s daring!

Fifth, Sister #1 is very detailed and precise. I think that’s why she’s a good accountant. Seriously, the girl has a spreadsheet for every possible thing. But Sister #1 takes her time and completes all tasks correctly, something I wish I did better. When we were kids I just thought she was slow at everything. However, I guess it was preparing her for a life of accounting. I remember when we were little; my mom would make us sit at the table until we were both done eating. I always wolfed down my food in record time, and then had to sit there waiting. Sister #1 ate so slowly. I am talking, one pea at a time slow. I would ALWAYS get so tired of waiting on her to finish. I usually ate the remainder of the food so we could go play before the freakin’ sun went down. I guess this would explain why I was the chunky one and Sister #1 was the skinny one.

See like I said at the first point….Sister #1 is way cooler than me, which is why I’ve allowed her to hang around for 25 years. I’m kidding. So here's to you Sister #1....have a great day!

Brilliant Idea #63

Blogger World, I have come up with a BRILLIANT idea. It’s better than Cookie Thursday, which you guys know is my proudest brilliant idea.

As you know, I’m single. No, I really am single it’s not an act. Since I’m not progressing with age in the dating world; I figure I might be single a few more years, or a decade. However, I feel that just because I’m single does not mean I should be punished. I mean, it’s not my fault. Ok, so maybe some of it is my fault. But today we are not debating why OK Chick is single. We’ll save that issue for later, or never. Anyway, I’m single and I’m tired of being punished.

See, even though I’m single many of my friends are not. No, they are married and starting to pop out kids- like the Bible Belt teaches us. Now if your friends are like mine, you know I have attended jillions of wedding showers and/or baby showers. Everyone knows that when you are invited to a shower you are expected to bring a present. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind buying my friends presents. This is a joyous occasion. I truly am happy that they are getting married or having a child. But my thing is; what if I never get married, what if I never have a child. Who’s going to buy a present for me? I want presents. I want the joy of registering for pots, and then having people pay for my expensive pots.

Blogger World I have come up with this brilliant idea. Folks, for my 30th birthday I am registering for birthday presents. I have chosen my 30th birthday because it’s kind of an important birthday. This is when you cross the line from young to old, or so I’ve been told. But on my 30th birthday, I am going to Target or William Sonoma or maybe both to register for my birthday presents. I am getting the dang registry gun and registering! I want a blender, ice cream scope, ice cream maker, knives, kettle, and Tupperware. I want nice matching Tupperware! There is no reason that because I cannot meet someone, that I shouldn’t have great silverware.

Registering for presents should not be for just married folks. We should demand equal rights. Single people of the Blogger World, we need to rally up and demand that we have matching plates and tools-even if we aren't married!

I hear by give anyone permission to steal OK Chick’s Brilliant Idea #63.

Weekend Update

Folks, I’m happy to report that Weekend Update is back. Yours truly, actually had a weekend; a weekend that involves something besides moving from couch to kitchen.

Friday
I still have all 10 fingers and 10 toes. Yup, didn’t nail, glue, staple, or saw off any digits while building the house. Well to be honest, we didn’t build a house. Saturday’s group built the house, my group laid sod. I know, not as exciting. But don’t be fooled, laying sod is dangerous; I could have lost a limb while laying sod. Ok, not really. I don’t know if anyone out there in Blogger World has ever laid sod, but it is hard work. I woke up Saturday morning hurting. My coworker and I had an efficient system and we were kicking everyone’s butt with the amount of sod we were laying. I personally think we worked the hardest out of everyone. I’m kidding, everyone worked hard.
After I planted an entire yard by myself (that’s a joke), I was off to Friday night’s event- Bunko. This was my first time to play Bunko and I really liked the game. It’s fun and easy and I’m good at the game. I’m so good I won $9! I’m pretty sure you can’t be good at Bunko; it’s a dice game and all about luck, but it’s cool to win. One of my coworkers asked me to join her monthly Bunko group. I had a great time meeting new people and eating yummy food. Everyone brought a snack. Of course, I brought healthy blueberry scones, and everyone else brought cookies. My poor scones sat in the corner while everyone else ate the cookies, including myself. I’m sorry, the cookies were good.

Saturday
I was able to sleep in until 9:00. You know you are old when you say you slept in and it’s only until 9:00. But, I was able to sleep a full 8ish hours and it felt great.
Most of Saturday was dedicated to cooking. Sister #1, Casie, and I spent five hours cooking casseroles. The three of us each picked out two recipes, tripled each recipe, and prepared each recipe placing them in foil containers. Afterwards we divided up all the casseroles to take home. The three of us now have a freezer full of delicious food.
When I was finished playing Paula Deen I rushed home to get ready for the next event- homecoming basketball game. I went to my old college’s homecoming. The basketball game was exciting and it was fun to see old friends. By the way, my college won the game. I don’t know if they are really good this year or if they played a bad team. They looked ok, but not amazing.
Saturday night Sister #1 and I went to Target. Here’s what I hate about Target. I enter Target with the intent to purchase one item. However, $70 later I’m leaving Target. Sister #1 and I did our part to help the economy. I don’t want to hear anymore whining about people not helping the economy.

Sunday
My Sunday morning kiddos have been patiently awaiting my arrival from Japan. They were promised a surprise from Japan if they knew the two weekly memory verses. Well you guessed it; every one of them knew the verses. I was so proud of my kids, and they were pumped to get candy with all the “signs” on the wrapper. I tried to explain that it was how Japanese wrote…they didn’t get it.

Well there you have it…I laid sod, cooked, kick butt at Bunko, and continue to change the lives of my 4th graders. A pretty good weekend if you ask me.

Friday Fun Fact

Today's FFF is about me. Would you expect anything less from me? Don't answer that question.

So today I'm going to build a house. I'm building a house with my bare hands. I'm excited. I can't say I have ever built a house. My office is volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Did you know:

Habitat began as an idea in the 1960s in Americus, Georgia. Since then, Habitat has built nearly 300,000 houses around the world. Yup it's true. I stole this information straight from their website.

Hopefully, I won't cut something off or nail a finger. I'll have a full report Monday.

Cookie Thursday

Blogger World, today is Cookie Thursday. I’m very excited to know that in about three minutes I will be receiving a hot chocolate chip cookie. I know it will be chocolate chip because I had the honor of choosing today’s cookie. I brought Cookie Boy something back from Japan. Advice for today: keep the important people happy and it makes life grand.

Anyway, today’s post isn’t about Cookie Thursday. Today’s post is about my exciting evening last night. No, it really is. No, I didn’t just watch TV. Last night Sister #1 and I went to watch OKC Thunder get beat by the Celtics. Sister #1 and I had fun at the game while laughing many times. Here are some of our laughable moments:

1. When we arrived downtown it was raining cats and dogs. Since downtown OKC has horrible parking, like you can’t ever find parking spot. Sister #1 and I parked pretty far from The Ford Center. SO imagine this… raining + cold + far from final destinations = two cold soaked girls running into The Ford Center. Sister #1 and I showed up to the game looking like wet dogs. I’m sure drivers loved watching me sprint down the street while Sister #1 brought up the rear trying to hold on to her massive OU umbrella. My favorite about all this is when we finally made it to our seats; the man next to me said wow is it raining? Yeah, I never said Okies were the smartest. Seriously, how do you answer that question with a straight face?

2. Of course, OKC Thunder has a dance team. When OKC was babysitting the Hornets we had the Hornet Hoes. Now, we have Thunder Thighs. I can’t take credit for this brilliant nickname; Sister #1 came up with the name. But it really made me laugh last night. However, I give props to the Thunder Thighs for dancing in hooker boots.

Well I guess there were only two laughable moments. I’m sure there were more but I’m at a lost. Now Blogger World, if you would excuse me I have a cookie to eat.

SCT #6 Report

The trip was amazing. I had a great time and saw many things. I saw old friends, 2 H&Ms, Mt. Fuji, neat buildings, beautiful gardens, and a bunch of American English Teachers bowl on Halloween. I never imagined in a million years that I would go back to Japan, but I'm happy I did. Here's a quick recap of SCT #6 with lots of pictures.

The first full day I was there I had dinner with my host family. They were nice enough to invite Kendon and ML as well. It was great to see my host family, and hear about my host sisters-one is a doctor and one is married with kids.

The second day ML drew me a map to a local park/lake. I walked around the lake/park for a couple hours. It was beautiful. Also, I want it noted that I never got lost with ML's map. It's because I rock at getting around forgein counties.

The second night a group of us went out for Japanese food. Here you see Kendon fliping part of our food.

The third day ML took me to his school. I guess I was like his show-n-tell. Going to school with ML was a really funny. I have so many funny stories from school. I forgot to take pictures while I was at his school. I know! But, here are some of my favorite questions students asked me...

-How old am I?

-What is my favorite washing machine?

-What is my favorite bug?

-What is my favorite alcohol? (compliments of a 2nd grader)

The rest of the trip took place in Tokyo. Here some great pics from Tokyo....

ML took me to a great park. It reminded me of Central Park, but prettier.

Tokyo Tower. Our hotel had a great view of Tokyo Tower! We even had a rooftop balcony where we could sit outside. It was nice, our view was Tokyo Tower and part of Tokyo. It was one of the best views in the city.







This is the busiest crosswalk in the whole world. No, it really is! ML and I sat in a two story Starbucks watching people cross the street. I was amazed at all the people.

This was my last meal in Tokyo, and I couldn't have asked for a better meal. These are my two favorite foods from Japan. The bread looking thing is SO good. I'm actually craving one right now. The Pocky sticks were one my favorite foods last time I was in Japan. I guess my taste buds haven't changed because I still love Pocky. I actually bought 6 boxes in the airport. HEY! I walked alot of miles this past week. I do not feel guilty that I plan to eat all 6 boxes, by myself.

Last time I was in Japan I wanted to ride this ferris wheel, but no one would go up with me. Well this trip I got to ride the ferris wheel. At the very top I was able to overlook the city.

It took about 24 hours to get there but it was worth it! For my first time to travel by myself, I feel I did pretty awesome. I never got lost and I only yelled at a lady once. I am sorry she was in my way and I was running to my connecting flight. I mean, sure- I'd only had 4 hours of sleep and not much food, but she was in the way. I probably wouldn't have yelled at her if I wasn't so hungry. Ok, that's a lie.

I think I'm turning Japanese

I'm home. I got back today. Until I have time to write a post this picture will have to do. I would like to thank these people for making my trip so great. Thanks guys...

And a huge thanks to this guy. Thanks for being a great tour guide.

Good Morning America!

Quick update. First, I would like to say I am alive. I made it here in one piece. The 12 hour flight was a killer but Tylenol PM pulled me through. God Bless Tylenol PM! Remind me to spend them a quick thank you note when I get back.

I’m on Day #2 of SCT #6. It’s early in the morning here. Fine, it’s 9am. But I woke up at 8. I’m still on America time, and more than likely won’t get on Japanese time until the day I go back home. I guess that’s what you get when you travel international for a short period of time.

Anyway, it’s been quite the adventure. Yesterday I spent most of the day walking up one street. Today, I plan to walk the other direction. When you don’t remember a single word of Japanese, and don’t know the area very well; it’s best to stay close to where you are staying. I hate that I don’t remember Japanese. I spent a month in Japan when I was in college. I guess this time, I assumed when I stepped foot off the plane all the Japanese would come back to me. It was a stupid assumption; because I didn’t know Japanese when I was here the first time. Ask my friend Hub. Everyone laughed at me because I sounded like a redneck trying to speak Japanese. As you can imagine, the Japanese people couldn’t understand what I was trying to say to them. I guess it was funny. But, I probably should have looked over my Japanese language book before I came over here. It would have been something useful to do on the 12-hour flight. Currently, when people start speaking Japanese at me I get this deer in the headlights look. I believe they quickly realize I’m a stupid American that doesn’t know anything about the language. Yea, I’m being one of those Americans.

But besides that minor detail I’m doing great. Yesterday I went shopping at my favorite Japanese store- UniQlo. I bought socks. The first night I was here I was so out of it, and my friends mentioned UniQlo being close, which made me quickly perked up. I only had to hear directions once before I had it memorized how to get to UniQlo. I'm proud to report I was the first customer at UniQlo. They open at 11 and I was there at 10:30 waiting for the doors to open. Good socks are hard to find!

Last night two of my friends and I went to eat dinner with my host family. My host family took care of me for over a month when I was here in college. They were a great host family. They spoke English and my host mom was an amazing cook. Last night she cooked dinner for us and I was able to see pictures and hear stories of my host sisters. It was a great night!

So there you have it…day 1 of this fab trip. But I’m afraid this post must come to an end because I need a shower. I’m totally loving the Japanese showers and toilets. My friend has a heated toilet seat. SOMEONE, please explain to me why we don’t have those in America?

One down, one to go

Blogger World, you are in for another treat; a post from layover land. I have been blessed with a 6 hour layover, yes 6 hour layover. Really, does it get any better than a 6 hour layover? I’m currently, parked in a nice restaurant here in layover land. I have found myself a cozy booth here at Wolfgang Punk’s restaurant. I swear any minute Wolfgang himself is going to pop out from the back and whip me up an amazing meal!
I’m about fours hours into SCT #6 and have already had many random thoughts. So without farther ado here is OK Chick’s Travel Thoughts….

Wow that’s my pilot! WOW that’s my copilot. Where are these guys hiding? Mental Note: Must meet a cute pilot someday.

Delayed 15 minutes. YES! I guess that means that my layover will now be 5 hours and 45 minutes. I can with work five hours.

Must.Get.Nonfat Chai.Now! Random coffee house you aren’t Strabucks but you are close enough.

Another one. Are all pilots cute? Maybe I should make a career move to become a pilot? Oh he even likes coffee. I guess everyone likes coffee, but he likes the random coffee house too. We already have common ground.

Why does she look so pretty? What is it with women who can travel beautiful? You can’t even tell she’s been on a flight. Her hair, makeup, and clothes look perfect. What is her secret? I don’t travel pretty. I look like death after I get off a flight. Well not really death because I look like death after I run. I guess you could classify the look as close to death. When I land in Japan I will look like death. I’m sorry I cannot travel for 24 hours and come out looking hot. Sorry, I don’t roll like that.

Food dilemma. I’m hungry but I don’t want to eat something now. Do I eat a small snack right now or do I just cave and eat lunch? Solution… Open the beef jerky I brought for my friends. Sorry guys..I’m hungry.

So no one talks anymore. I’ve been watching people walk by the restaurant and everyone has their nose in their phone or computer. Ummm kind of like me.

I guess that’s all the thoughts I’ve had. I thought there was more, but for some reason they have escaped my mind. It’s probably because I’m pretty beat! Flights are hard on the old body.

Friday Fun Facts & Weekend Update

Alright, I realize I’ve been a bad blogger this past week-I’m sorry. However, I have a pretty valid excuse. I mean, I’m going to Japan tomorrow. Last week’s schedule was pretty hectic. But now I’m done packing and thought I’d post something for all my lovely readers. Folks, you are in for a treat. First, you are getting a Sunday post, which never happens here at This is my world. Second, I’m just going to combine Friday Fun Facts and Weekend Update. SO really you are getting two posts in one. Hopefully, this can hold you over.

Friday Fun Fact
We had some big celebrations this past week. Did you guys realize that Oct. 19-24 was National Businesswomen’s Week? Yeah, me neither! As a businesswoman it would have been nice to know this information. If I would have known, I would have been celebrating ALL week. I might have sent myself flowers, eaten a brownie or two, bought a new outfit, or gone out to eat. I suppose there’s always next week.
Also, this past week iPod Day was observed. Thursday, was iPod day. Again, I was pretty bummed I wasn’t aware of this observation. I love Little Shuffle, and I would have loved celebrating iPod Day with him. Actually, I did celebrate with Little Shuffle, I went running Thursday.

Weekend Update
I guess my weekend is pretty much over. I can’t think of anything that will happen from now until tonight, so I feel pretty safe posting Weekend Update. Also, it was another low key weekend, which is fine since I have a busy week ahead of me. SOOO let’s jump into Weekend Update….

Friday
My wonderful friend Holly came over for dinner. I was excited that Holly was ok with just coming over for dinner instead of going to the Greek Festival, like we had planned. But we had a nice peaceful dinner in the comfort of my house.

Saturday
I started the packing process. Actually, I’m a pretty fast packer. I know some people hate packing and drag it out, but I can pack for a trip in thirty minutes. I feel it’s due to my frequent trips to Arkansas. Saturday was full of buying last minute things for Japan, packing, and watching football. I became unproductive at the end of the OSU/TX game. It was a good game! After the football game was over it was off to a Halloween party. My friend Stacey throws great Halloween parties. The party involved food and a movie, two of my favorite things. We watched the movie The Lost Boys. I had never seen the movie. It was ok. I wouldn’t rush out to buy it, but I did sit through the whole thing.

Sunday
This morning at church the kiddos received two new memory verses. I was pretty excited that everyone was able to memorize the first verse this morning. I promised the kids if they had both verses down when I got back, a Japanese souvenir would be handed out. I’m thinking chopsticks. Actually, I’m thinking chopsticks for everyone. I think chopsticks are cool.
Well that's about all that has happened today.

Blogger World, if you would excuse me my dishwasher needs to be unloaded. I know it's not glamorous, but you know...it has to be done.

When I grow up I wanna see the world...

As I posted a few weeks ago; SCT #6 is already being planned. What I failed to mentioned is SCT #6 is taking place next week. Blogger World, next week I’m off to Japan! That’s right Japan. The land of…well I don’t know what it is the land of, but I know I’ll be there for one whole week. I’m very excited about this trip. It will be full of seeing old friends, shopping at H&M, eating great food, experiencing a different culture, and receiving another stamp in my passport. I’m very excited about shopping at H&M. I’ve been saving my money for the H&M shopping excursion. Who cares that my 401K is going down the drain, I’m going shopping!

Yesterday I researched things to do in Tokyo. I plan to spend a couple days in Tokyo. I believe I have come up with a killer list of unusual sights to see. One of the things on my list is Tsukiji, which is a huge wholesale fish market. A few months ago Sister #1 and I watched a special on 60 Minutes about the way Japanese buy Tuna, not the sandwich the actual fish. Part of the special was filmed at Tsukiji. This place houses some of the largest, most expensive Tunas. I feel I need to see these great fish with my own eyes, and smell them with my own nose.

Next on my list is Tokyo Dome. It’s where Yomiuri Giants play baseball. I’m not making this up; their team is really called the Giants. I would love to see a game, but if that is not possible then I’d just like to snap a picture of the dome. I just looked on their schedule, and if I’m reading this right they have a game the weekend I am there. However, the schedule was in Japanese, and my Japanese is a bit rusty. For all I know, they were selling tickets to a concert. But something is going on the weekend I am there.

The third thing on my list is a walking tour through the high fashion district of Tokyo. I’m thinking this is where H&M comes into play. MSN estimates the walking tour should take four hours. I’m thinking I run the walking tour, since I’m in training for a half marathon, and then spend two hours shopping at H&M. Again this is me thinking, but I believe my friends will veto this plan. I guess it’s worth a try; it would be great for me since I need one long run while I’m in Japan. I'll throw this idea out when I see my friends.

I’m predicted this will be a great trip. I’m stocked up on books, magazines, and Tylenol PM. Hey, the flight is 14 hours I need to sleep.

Letters from Ok Chick

Beloved News Media,

SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! I have had it up to my eyeballs with your whining, opinions, and worthless thoughts! Please, before I stab my right eye out, just- stop- talking! I do not need to be told how to spend my money. I realize the stock market is going down. However, some of us are smart enough to know that you buy when it’s low and sell when it’s high. Also, I get that you are for Obama, but not everyone is for Obama. Please be a doll and stop telling me that “The American People” did not side with McCain two minutes after a debate. How do you know what “The American People” are even thinking…THE DEBATE JUST ENDED!!!!!

XOXO,
Ok Chick

To my fellow neighbors:

What’s up with the fake flowers in flower beds? You do realize it is middle of October? So it’s very unrealistic that your Gerber Daisies are still in full bloom. Yesterday I ran around the neighborhood and counted 4-5 house that were working the fake flower look. I guess I should be praising you for such a genius idea; beautiful flowers and no hard work. My only suggestion is let’s try to keep the fake flowers in season.

Thanks,
Ok Chick

Dear Mama Spears,

STOP! Please stop while you are ahead. It was one thing for you to release your book as daughter #1 was going through an awful, awful time in her life. And it was another, when daughter #2 came out that she was pregnant at age sixteen. But, I draw the line at you releasing a movie about your life. We don’t care! Also, Julia Roberts called and she doesn’t want to play you in the movie.

Sincerely,
Ok Chick


Starbucks,

I just discovered your sugar free syrups. WOW! Where have these been hiding all my life? Thank- you for developing products for us health freaks.

Thanks again!
Ok Chick


Mr. Maher,

Dude, I pity you when judgment day comes. Your new movie might get some laughs, but I don’t think the Big Man Upstairs is laughing.

Best of Luck,
Ok Chick

Ramblings...

No Weekend Update this week. I have decided I will not do another Weekend Update until I have an exciting weekend. You can only spruce up weekend events like sitting at home Friday and Saturday nights for so long. Blogger World I’m going to be honest, after awhile you run out creative ways to describe sitting on the couch. But I promise, soon and very soon I will have an exciting weekend. I can’t give you an exact date, but surely something will come along. I’m not a complete social outcast. I did have one highlight from this past weekend I would like to share. I went to dinner with my friend Holly and Julie. Now see, I can’t make that one event into an entire post, hence why I’m nixing Weekend Update for awhile. So with all that said, I’ve decided today seems like a Ramblings.

Running Update- I’m still trucking along with my ½ Marathon training. Sunday BEFORE church I ran 6 miles. I would like it noted that I got up at 6:15 to go run. I was very proud of myself; not for getting up early but for running 6 miles. It took me forever to run six miles but I did it! Of course, all day Monday I was starving. I know, you would think Sunday I would eat everything in sight. Nope, not my body. I think it’s on some type of delayed reaction.

Tonight is the first preseason basketball game for The Thunder. Who is The Thunder you ask? Well, The Thunder is OKC’s new NBA team. You might remember them as the Super Sonics. The game is a pretty big deal to the media, but not a huge deal to normal people because it’s a preseason game. I will not be attending the game for a couple reasons. First of all, I have bible study tonight. It’s my first meeting with this group so I should probably be there. Second of all and this is the most important, I don’t have tickets. When OKC was babysitting the Hornets I was able to go to many games. But this year all my basketball partners, people that received free tickets all the time and invited me, have significant others. Needless to say, I have been dumped for their significant others.

Last night I tried two new healthy recipes. I made Chicken Pot Pie and Chilly Chocolate Cheesecakes Nuggets. OH MY GOODNESS! The Chilly Chocolate Cheesecakes Nuggets were A-MAZING! My buddy TC pointed out the recipe from our cookbook. She thought it might be something I would like, and boy was she right! I highly recommend this to anyone! TC and I found the recipe in our cool Hungry Girl cookbook. If you don’t have a Hungry Girl cookbook, then I strongly feel that you should go get one.

It’s fall here in OKC. The high for today is only supposed to be in the high 60s. It’s perfect fall weather if you ask me. However, in my office it’s -2. My office is always cold. I try to prepare for the coldness every morning and this morning I thought I had done well. For instance, I am wearing pants, boots, socks, and two shirts. But that isn’t enough. I had to put on my big green sweater that doesn’t go with my red shirt, to help me stay warm. Yes, I currently look like a Christmas tree. I know this because 5 people have stopped by my office to tell me! You know, I’m not a C.E.O, or a C.F.O, or even a C.O.O but dang it- if they would turn down the air they might be able to pay us more money! I’m thinking if I bust out my gloves and scarf they might get the idea. I’m not being dramatic, it’s really cold.

Sadly, this Ramblings must come to an end. I hear my turkey sandwich calling my name!

Friday Fun Fact

Today's Friday Fun Fact is about football. Guys go ahead and rejoice. Tomorrow is huge football game for any OU fan. It's OU/TX game. Basically, this means if you are a football hater you can run any errand without fighting a crowd. If you are a football lover this means you will be completely worthless from the hours of 10:00am-4:00pm on Saturday. Seriously, people schedule their weddings around this weekend. I kid you not! Anyway, gere's the history of OU/TX....

The Red River Shootout, also known since 2005 as the Red River Rivalry, is a common name for the annual college football game between the University of Texas Longhorns and the University of Oklahoma Sooners. The series is considered one of the greatest rivalries in American sports. The name is derived from the Red River that forms part of the boundary between the U.S. states of Texas and Oklahoma. The game originated in 1900, while Oklahoma was still a United States territory and the Oklahoma campus was still in Oklahoma Territory.

Sadly, I have never experienced the coolness of an OU/TX football game. I hear it's loads of fun. My dad has been many times, but he won't take any of his daughters. I think it's because the tickets are well over $100 a piece. The game is held at the Cotton Bowl during the TX State Fair. Doesn't that sound like fun? They combine two of my favorite things...state fair and football. This game is on my list of things to do before I die. It's up there with marriage.

Starbucks Wisdom

Starbucks has brought back The Way I See It. I'm so excited. Here is today's The Way I See It...

I used to feel so alone in the city. All those gazillions of people and then me, on the outside. Because how do you meet a new person? I was very stumped by this for many years. And then I realized, you just say, "Hi." They may ignore you. Or you may marry them. And that possibility is worth that one word.
Augusten Burroughts
Authory of Running with Scissors

Blogger World, today I plan to say "Hi" to someone I don't know. I'll let you know if they ignore me or marry me. I thought today's The Way I See It was pretty solid advice. It's pretty basic, but sometimes we forget that the first step to meeting someone is saying...hello.

Weekend Update

Tuesday. In the Greek world, Tuesday (the day of the week of the Fall of Constantinople) is considered an unlucky day. The same is true in the Spanish-speaking world, where a proverb runs: "On Tuesday, neither get married nor begin a journey."
I know what you are thinking. You are thinking where does she get this crap? I will answer your question. I get “this crap” from Wikipedia. So Tuesday might be an unlucky day for the Greek world and the Spanish world, but here on This is my world…it’s my day for Weekend Update.

Friday
I experimented with a Hawaiian Chicken Dish. I combined chicken, pineapple, soy sauce, onions, and green peppers in the crock-pot. I let everything cook for about four hours. My plan was to serve this made-up Hawaiian Chicken Dish over some steamed wheat rice. I assumed this creation would turn out magical. It ended up being not so magical. I don’t know what happen. Doesn’t that sound like a great meal to you? Sister #1 and I agreed it wasn’t so great. See, not all my meals turn out impressive. I’m just keeping it real folks!

Saturday
Well, Saturday was a busy day. First, I went downtown to run Race for the Cure. My friend Stephanie, Jessica, my dad, and I ran the race together. Well the four of us and 12,000 other people. As always, it was fun and great to raise awareness for cancer. My goal was to run the 5K race in 29 minutes. I ended up running it in 31:24. Again, keeping it real.
After I finished running I rushed home to take a shower and get ready for event #2, a baby shower. Sister #1 and I attended a baby shower for our friend Casie. The shower was held in a barn. It’s true. But, this was the biggest, nicest barn I have ever seen in my entire life. The family that hosted the shower for Casie actually lives in the barn. I mean, they don’t live in the stables or anything they live upstairs. SO nice!
When the baby shower was over I went home rushing to get ready for event #3, Healthy Living Expo. This was a fun event. I worked the Jazzercise both and ate lots of healthy food. I’m sure I was a sight…sitting at the Jazzercise table eating mounds of food. HA! I just imagined myself. Yeah, anyway while working the Healthy Living Expo I did meet two famous people. I would tell you their name, but I don’t remember their name. I swear they were famous! It was a couple from the TV show Biggest Loser. Anyway, they were the key speakers, so I got to meet them. Nice couple just can’t remember their name.

Sunday
Once again, I helped 11 boys and 4 girls learn their memory verse. We’ve been working on this one for a few weeks. It’s tough. However, I think we conquered it this week. Well, the girls have it down and half of the boys have it memorized. The rest of my day was spent decorating for Halloween. I love Halloween!

Friday Fun Facts

Blogger World, HAPPY FRIDAY! Once again it’s time for my Friday Fun Facts. You know, Friday Fun Facts is quickly becoming my favorite post. Well, second favorite post because Ramblings is still my favorite post to write. I think you’re going to enjoy today’s Friday Fun Facts. See I realize that Friday’s are sometimes long days at work. You’re excited for the weekend and can’t concentrate long enough to type up your TPS Report. Therefore, I (Ok Chick) am going to share some of my favorite pass the time at work websites. Enjoy, and if you don’t at least you killed some time at work….

A few months ago I discovered Working Girl. They work in a big city and write about their daily work life in big city. No, not Oklahoma City but a real “big” city like Chicago; places with public transportation.

This site probably won’t interest you unless you live right here in Oklahoma. The site is hilarious. Three guys have become famous for making fun of our news media. They also make fun of our new NBA Team, restaurants, colleges, state fair, and the city of Tulsa.

My hero. I love this man. Actually, I’m looking to marry someone just like him. If you know of ANYONE that fits this description please let me know.

My second hero. Anyone that can bounce back from her divorce with Lance Armstrong is my hero. When I went to Austin I secretly hoped to meet her. Not only is she a great writer, she’s always a great runner. I haven’t seen her run, but I get the feeling she’d kick my butt at any race.

I always get hungry when I view this site. I try to look at it right after lunch, when I’m not so hungry. I mean, I stay hungry pretty much all day but usually after lunch it’s not bad. But don’t say I didn’t warn you…it’s not my fault if you scarf down a bag of Peanut M&Ms after viewing this site. PS- She has a great recipe for Peanut Butter Dip. I made it last night...so good.

I’m sorry to say but I must wrap this post up. Hopefully, you have enjoyed your Friday Fun Facts.

SCT #5 Recap

My favorite part about being single is all the fun trips I get to take with my friends. Yes, I realize that when you tie the knot of holy matrimony you are able to take trips with your friends too. However, I’m not married, hence why I’m single, so I have no idea how that whole thing works. But I do know about being single and taking trips.

Several years ago I decided, instead of sulking about being single I should embrace my singleness. Five years ago, I came up with SCT, Single Crazy Trips. Actually, I didn’t come up with the name, my CA friend DJ offered the name. I liked it, so it’s stuck.
SCT is….every year I reward myself for making it through another year of singleness with a trip. In the past my SCT have allowed me to… go skiing in Utah, lay out in Hawaii, cheered USA on at the Winter Olympics, and get lost in Times Square.
This past year was my 5 year anniversary of SCT. I thought about doing one big huge trip, but because of school I opted for five small trips, in honor of SCT # 5. Blogger World, I’d like to recap SCT #5….

1. Dallas, TX- One year ago, a few friends and I jumped the Oklahoma boarder to head to Dallas. It was a fun weekend of shopping, state fairs, Lion King, and more shopping. It was a great weekend trip.
2. Fayetteville, AR- During the peak of football season the Fam and I headed to see our beloved Hogs beat Baylor. Yes, we went a Baylor game. The tickets were easier to find and cheaper. We had to get five tickets. By the way, this was when my parents sat in awesome seats and sent their daughters up to Hog Heaven. Oh and Hog Heaven is a nice way of saying we sat in the nose bleed section!
3. Portland, OR- This is how the Portland trip came about.
Sister #1- I need a vacation.
Me- Me too.
Sister #1- Want to go somewhere?
Me- Sure.
Sister #1- Here are plan tickets/hotel for less than $300.
Me- Where?
Sister #1- Portland
Me- Works for me, book it.
Sister #1- Ok, we are going to Portland.
There you have it. Sister #1 and I decided, booked, and planned our Portland trip in less than 30 minutes. God bless the Internet. Portland was another great weekend trip. We ate great food, shopped like crazy at Niketown, and saw our wonderful friend Tabs.
4. Ft. Lauderdale, FL- Ahh the beach. This too was another relaxing weekend trip. I believe we were only in FL for 24 hours, but who cares I got a rockin’ tan that lasted for months! The Cousin, Sister #1, and I spent one full day laying out and reading. It was wonderful. The three of us decided the trip must be a yearly thing!
5. Austin, TX- This trip was another TX weekend. I’m sure you all remember my Austin trip. The one where I hung out with Matthew and Lance? Right, I won’t bore you with the details of rubbing shoulders with the famous. This trip was a fun weekend with my dad which included a great 6 mile race.

SCT #5 was a huge hit. I was able to take five weekend trips with many cool people. Today starts the beginning of SCT #6 season. Yea, I don’t know why I decided to start the season in Oct? SOOO where is SCT #6 going to take me? I’m happy to report it’s already being planned. SCT #6 is going to be HUGE. Huge I tell you!