tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81462777170584573152024-03-07T00:57:47.434-06:00The Dragon's LossCoryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.comBlogger551125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-18619208300284025532011-02-10T07:12:00.002-06:002011-02-10T07:15:12.237-06:00Finally...A Little TimeI finally had a little time yesterday to finish Joss Ware's latest book. I don't have time this morning for anything, but I'll post a short review of some latest reads a little later. (It might be over the weekend!)<br /><br />I probably shouldn't have stayed up until 12:30 reading last night. I feel like hell this morning.<br /><br />The "diet" is going well however. The only time I've eaten out since my meeting was lunch yesterday. And that was only because I left for lunch over 1.5 hours later than usual. I didn't think I could really handle cooking for myself at the time. I think I did well though. Hopefully the week will cooperate on all fronts.Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-85318805712038435832011-02-05T11:00:00.002-06:002011-02-05T11:30:11.449-06:00I haven't forgotten!I promise I haven't forgotten you. School is an evil bitch. I can't wait to finish this semester. I'm tired of all this bullshit.<br /><br />I shouldn't complain too much. I do love my teachers. They are great. It's just a lot of work these days. I don't have time for all the things I would like to do. (Like finish Joss Ware's latest book. I need more hours in a day!!!)<br /><br />I got sick yesterday when I tried something new at lunch. I know better, but I really am trying to get past some of the things I don't like to eat. It sometimes sucks being a picky eater. Ok, the allergies and migraine triggers suck worse than just the long list of things I don't like....<br /><br />I have a group meeting this afternoon on my latest group assignment for class. I have the majority of my part done. I'll just have to get the other's work and get it all in one big file. I should get to work on my last piece, huh?<br /><br /><br />On a sadder note, I have been unable to make a Weight Watchers meeting this week. I HAVE to go on Monday. School and weather kept me away this week. I can't handle another week away. I did go weigh in during the open hours, but it just isn't the same! And we aren't talking about the scale.Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-16605886640287174882011-01-28T18:28:00.002-06:002011-01-28T18:35:31.436-06:00Fun New Dessert!Today was the hubby's birthday. We both took off work and slept in. Then did lunch at Olive Garden.<br /><br />He loved his birthday presents. He got a rockband mic with integrated XBox360 controller, and a small keyboard with a touchpad. This is for the computer in the living room.<br /><br />Unfortunately we will have to return the keyboard. It has a short when charging, and the wireless receiver sparked when it was unplugged from the computer. It's range is about 12 inches. Not really useful.<br /><br />On a better note, I made an awesome dessert for his birthday. It's a variation of a recipe from Green Lite Bites. You can find the video Roni made <a href="http://greenlitebites.com/2011/01/07/single-serve-vegan-clementine-cake/">here</a>. Her recipe is completely vegan, if I recall correctly. I made mine a little different. I used plain old fat-free milk, and used an orange instead of a Clementine. It was awesome, and Josh loved it. He wants me to make it with tangerines next. I though about taking a picture, but they were not pretty. I'll let you see Roni's for that.<br /><br />Hope everyone has a good weekend, and I'm off to work on more schoolwork!Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-38395687286381168272011-01-25T21:52:00.002-06:002011-01-25T21:56:56.379-06:00-10Yes. That is my total pounds lost as of my meeting last night. 10 pounds gone. I'm happy.<br /><br />I did miss my usual meeting leader though. She needs to be back next week. (Didn't care for the replacement!) I also want her to be the one to give me my 5% whatever-I-get.<br /><br /><br />Ok, just so everyone knows, Tuesdays suck. They are my 'Monday' this semester. I have two classes on Tuesdays. I was so fried by class tonight that I had an awesome blonde moment. I couldn't remember how to tell if a computer has IIS installed. I mean really, this is NOT rocket science. <br /><br />On a funny note for the end, my group partners in class got together and decided I'm not allowed to walk home after class. We get out around 9pm, and they were just not having me walk the two blocks home. Aren't they awesome guys?Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-38662481222676649532011-01-22T13:50:00.003-06:002011-01-22T14:00:40.720-06:00Fan Girl MomentOne of my favorite authors has a new book coming out Tuesday. Joss Ware has <span style="font-style:italic;">Night Betrayed</span>, the fourth book in her Envy Chronicles series, coming out. I've been looking forward to Theo's story, and it will finally arrive.<br /><br />I have the book preordered for my Kindle so that I can go ahead and get it. And even though Tuesdays are my busy school day, every spare moment will go to this book. <br /><br />YAY! NEW BOOK! I wish the calendar days would flip over more quickly...<br /><br /><br />She also has a new series coming out soon. Regency Draculia will be released under the name Colleen Gleason, and the first book comes out in March.Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-69161236271012119252011-01-19T18:56:00.002-06:002011-01-19T19:02:25.528-06:00The Week ProgressesAnd I'm convinced it will never end. And the light at the end of the tunnel is a train determined to hit me.<br /><br />Yes, this is how it really feels at this point. Classes are rough, and a horrific amount of work.<br /><br />Work is work. Just busier than usual. In the past two days I've only had one really bad customer. Some grandmother pretty much thinks I lied to her. Not my fault federal laws doesn't allow me to give you your grandson's password. I actually was sorry I couldn't help her out...<br /><br />Otherwise things aren't too bad. I'm doing good on the food front. Actually didn't hit my points target yesterday. I MAY go over tonight. But it's ok. I have my weeklies. :) (On a funny note, it helps to NOT mix up fiber and carbs when calculating points...The very good healthy choice fish meal is NOT free!)<br /><br />Okay...off to make coffee now. I think I need it before I open my textbook!Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-13483015737836183422011-01-17T19:49:00.003-06:002011-01-17T19:51:33.842-06:00Awesome Weigh InIt was an awesome weigh in tonight. I lost 1 pound. I fully expected to have gained at least that much. However, thinking back things weren't THAT bad over the week, food wise. I do hope the migraine stays away though. I can't afford to deal with that this week...<br /><br />On the To Do List, I bought a food scale at Target, but haven't used it yet. I didn't do a work out video, but rather spent some time with my new game Wii Fit Plus (or whatever the name of the new one is!) I really enjoyed that. And I've already mentioned the weigh in.<br /><br />On the grocery shopping front, I have grabbed a few things from Wal-Mart, but haven't been to the grocery store. I have enough to get me through to Wednesday, unless I make a trip after the hubby finishes his tacos. We'll either go to the grocery store, or I'll make a pot of Jambalya tonight (for dinner tomorrow night).<br /><br />As for tracking and making it through the week, we'll see how that goes. Hard to really comment on yet.<br /><br />I bought a three shelve bookcase while at Target today. I put it together this afternoon and put all our DVDs and my workout stuff in it. I think I like it. Next real project for the apartment is the kitchen. It needs overhauled again. I need to pull more stuff out of it. I have the before pictures, complete with dishes in the sink. :) I fully expect this project to occur over a month or so. With school starting up that has to be my major focus.Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-74735983423047033642011-01-16T15:27:00.004-06:002011-01-16T15:33:44.189-06:00Beginning Photo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNqbOLFpm56hXCcfv98A_ZNk0pW5_Yn0R8n20V-LyVtECMVCL27s7wDPglzCT1xe2aZ5hN1PkKiZiDS3aE3_myN50rDpDbtdnejQGhg64Hv3WHmoKscy7a5jHUD7GL3u6KK88UzjxH0gj/s1600/josh+and+cory.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNqbOLFpm56hXCcfv98A_ZNk0pW5_Yn0R8n20V-LyVtECMVCL27s7wDPglzCT1xe2aZ5hN1PkKiZiDS3aE3_myN50rDpDbtdnejQGhg64Hv3WHmoKscy7a5jHUD7GL3u6KK88UzjxH0gj/s320/josh+and+cory.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562898542075836898" /></a><br /><br /><br />This is a photo of my husband and I from December 4, 2010. Josh was an usher in a friend's wedding, and this was taken in the photo booth. A good picture of us, and a good beginning photo, I think, for me.<br /><br />And, yes, Josh has longer hair than I do (you can't see it incredibly well here). I love it. When it's straightened, he reminds me of Christian Kane. They have the same type of hair. Naturally curly and a bit bushy if left to it's own devices...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLSk7zD7nYBNsSWJwqtZSN9xFKZ-WUhZeUCaddOR8Ue-kUhMWdS3C7RhRsrWB6YhFeejmUpFVDEuub470kzdkPq-MpPP5LVq1WIaMAZlSffP1m8kM8aIronRSZ_04MdiXQOqO-90mpku9/s1600/josh+and+cory+oct.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLSk7zD7nYBNsSWJwqtZSN9xFKZ-WUhZeUCaddOR8Ue-kUhMWdS3C7RhRsrWB6YhFeejmUpFVDEuub470kzdkPq-MpPP5LVq1WIaMAZlSffP1m8kM8aIronRSZ_04MdiXQOqO-90mpku9/s320/josh+and+cory+oct.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562899895955763986" /></a><br /><br />And this one is from October when Josh was in his cousin's wedding.Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-23069826418837247602011-01-15T18:51:00.003-06:002011-01-15T19:07:14.059-06:00Am I Ready?I was successful in weight loss back when I blogged regularly. And I think if I get back into the blogging thing it will boast my success again. I've tried coming back to it in the past (since I quit in 2008) but it hasn't worked yet. Just like my attempts since then in Weight Watchers, I wasn't ready.<div><br /></div><div>I think I have shown that I'm ready for the weight loss this time. I rejoined Weight Watchers November 9, 2010. I have lost 7.4 pounds since then. 6.4 pounds of that is on the new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">PointsPlus</span> program, and the only gain during that time was New Years. And I know what caught me then. And it is not anything I normally do. I've been suffering from quite the migraine this week, so it likely will not be a good week again. But that is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ok</span>. I know that things happen, and am ready to accept this things without feeling like a failure.</div><div><br /></div><div>I will try the blogging thing again now. I have not gotten back into exercise yet. BUT, that will happen this week. Not today, probably not tomorrow. I will definitely get a workout in before I finish this three-day weekend. That is my goal for the weekend. I hope this forum helps me. We'll see.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>My To-Do List for the coming week:</div><div>-Get in a work out, most likely a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tae</span> Bo video on Monday</div><div>-Go grocery shopping since I am out of food!</div><div>-Buy a food scale. (I had one years ago, but most of the pieces got lost during one move or another.)</div><div>-Get back to tracking my food (I do not feel bad about letting it slip during the migraine, but it's time to get back on track!)</div><div>-WEIGH IN MONDAY! (seeing the folks I chat with at the Monday WW meeting is the big event on Mondays and I always miss these folks when they are not there.)</div><div>-Make it through the first week of classes at the Uni without any major insanities.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>So, here I am, trying again. And I'm thinking it should work this time. I'll be back in a few days to say more about what's going on with me now, and how I'm progressing on that to-do list.</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-63775035489354709142010-03-27T00:12:00.002-05:002010-03-27T00:19:03.799-05:00Still out of whack....Even a week after Spring Break I am still tired.<div><br /></div><div>It was a fun trip home, even if I was barely able to sleep. My sweet niece can take up most of a queen size bed on her own. She just shoves you out of the way. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, I was unlucky enough to have a two day migraine this week too. And, day two of the migraine was when I had a test in finance. But I THINK I did ok on it. The test was definitely easier than the practice test he gave us. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>And I got my grade from my Database mid-term. It was a 99 or something. I guess I missed a few questions, because I seem to recall a bonus credit thing being given during the 40 minutes of talking she did before we took the mid-term. Would have done better if not for that!</div><div><br /></div><div>And our office move has been postponed AGAIN. We should be moving the week of May 19th. That's during the intersession, so at least we shouldn't be really busy. And I'm already as packed as I can be and still do my job. There's only one box to go, and it's the computer, my fan, pens, tape...that kind of thing. And we should have plenty of boxes for everyone else to pack. Hopefully we will actually move this time.</div><div><br /></div><div>And that's really it for me. I've been half-way watching the first season of Heroes. Pretty interesting show. And I just finished reading White Night by Jim Butcher. Love Harry Dresden!!!</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-23603004643812442702010-03-16T19:29:00.002-05:002010-03-16T19:33:14.763-05:00Freaking out a bit...I have recently learned that I'll be picking up my 5 year old niece to take to Momma's with me for the rest of the week. I have never been on a road trip with a child. At least Jackie has assured me that the worst is that Ashleigh will likely talk my ear off, and maybe say that she is thirsty. I'm still freaking out a bit though. I guess that is normal.<div><br /></div><div>So, I ensured that my car is entirely cleaned out, even the trunk. I usually just put everything in the backseat when I drive up. But with the little one I'll need to use the trunk. </div><div><br /></div><div>And I just realized that I have not bought gas yet. Guess I'll do that in the morning on the way out of town...</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-21143990856117373262010-03-15T23:46:00.002-05:002010-03-15T23:57:19.728-05:00Busy BeeI may have a week off work for Spring Break, but I'm still busy. I'll admit that I didn't do much of anything today (except get an oil change!) but I'm still sore from Saturday.<div><br /></div><div>Saturday afternoon I bought 2 3-shelf bookcases for the living room. And I pulled EVERYTHING from one corner of the living room to clean and put in these cases. That portion of the room looks much better. One of the bookshelves replaced my side table beside the recliner. The table was never steady, and I needed the storage space. The other case is just inside the apartment door, where there used to be a black recliner. I moved that recliner to the other end of the couch to replace the folding chair that was full of junk. The first bookcase has a ton of books in it. The other bookcase has movies, video games, board games, and miscellaneous stuff. I still need some organizational work done in/on both shelves. But at least the stuff is not just piled on the floor anymore.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tomorrow, after an early doctor appointment, I'll work in another portion of the living room. Saturday was almost all my stuff that was cleaned up. Tomorrow I will work on stuff that is mostly Josh's stuff. I'm thinking that another bookcase may be in order. While I know that 5-shelf bookcases are more space efficient, they don't work for the areas I have to currently but them. And something is better than nothing, right? Especially if it starts to get things in order!</div><div><br /></div><div>I would love to work in the kitchen/dining room areas, but I won't have time for that. I need to box up all the kitchen stuff that I never use. This would give me space to store the things we use, such as the wok, the big skillet, the crockpot. As it is, all the cabinets are full of things that I never use. And I have several of the same size of some pieces of corning ware. Maybe I can work on that at Easter when I have a day off again.</div><div><br /></div><div>Wednesday morning I leave to visit my parents for a few days. I'll drive up first thing in the morning. I'm meeting my sister for lunch on the way. Then Momma will have me until either late Saturday or early Sunday. I'm sure that she will keep me fairly busy while I'm there. It will be good to go up for an extended trip. Weekends just never leave time for everything. I just wish I had time to do more in the apartment before I left. I just didn't feel like working on it today. :) </div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-2426384279015821172010-03-10T19:52:00.002-06:002010-03-10T19:58:27.863-06:00Random Fangirl OutburstI just found out that <a href="http://www.kelleyarmstrong.com/">Kelley Armstrong</a> will be coming to Jackson in September! She is one of my favorite authors!!!!!! This stop is part of the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SmartChicksKickIt">Smart Chicks Kick It Tour</a>.<div><br /></div><div>The tour is for YA Paranormal. I haven't read all of Armstrong's YA series, but I'll definitely have to get some of it while I'm there. Now I just have to learn more about the other authors that will be at the Jackson stop. Holly Black is the only other one that I am familiar with. (I like her work too, but I don't read her like I do Kelley Armstrong...)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, back to your regularly scheduled programming.</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-66694447177469542832010-03-07T19:26:00.008-06:002010-03-07T20:08:58.720-06:00SportsmanshipThe Kotei in Lafayette, LA, yesterday was terrific. It was fun to see all the Lafayette guys again. I had originally met them at Mobicon last year, and played in one of their local tournaments a while back. I really like these guys. I also met several other great guys while we were there. There were 44 players in the tournament, and I really liked a lot of them. I don't think I actually spoke with everyone. And I certainly don't remember all of the names.<div><br /></div><div>Some of the highlights include:</div><div><br /></div><div>-Meeting Steve Argyle. He's a pretty cool guy. I got a playmat from him (signed), and he did some sketches for Josh and I.</div><div><br /></div><div>-Seeing Todd Rowland again was cool. I met him at Mobicon last year, and it was cool that he drove in for the Kotei. </div><div><br /></div><div>-Teaching a guy how to play L5R. In the 6th round, my opponent had already left. So I was asked to teach a guy how to play. That was cool. My 7th round opponent was Josh. I gave him the win because I was still playing the teaching game (and I can play him whenever!). I don't remember the guy's name, but he was really nice. He picked it up quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div>-I got to see Patrick again. Patrick lives on the MS Gulf Coast, and has driven up to Hattiesburg a few times to hang out. He has started a play group on the Coast and brought his two best players with him. We ate supper with them, and they are all really cool. We hope to drive down and play with them sometime soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>-The awesome theme deck. I didn't play David, but his deck was awesome. He was playing Crane, and his theme was the theater. His opponent could select either Hamlet or Romeo and Juliet (I'm fairly certain those were the two). Then he had a script and did the play as the game progressed. I only saw bits and pieces of it through the day but it was cool. He even had a playmat that was set up as a stage, with trapdoors for the provinces. And fliers posted on the walls advertising the two plays. He made it into the Top 8 with his deck. I wanted to watch, but he had lost his voice by that point.</div><div><br /></div><div>-The games I played and the opponents. I only won one game. But all of the games were fun and I learned a lot. The first game was with Andrew. I don't remember where he is from, but I really liked him. Very friendly. I also learned why everyone says the Lion are so awesome right now. I played with David, a Crane player who I think was from Texas. He, and some of the other players, gave me tips after the games as to how I could improve my deck and how I was supposed to be playing some of the cards in them. I wish I remembered the other players' names. But I am horrible with names, so I've gotten used to it. There were some terrific players, and everyone was very friendly. (I was the only girl. It was odd, but not uncomfortable or anything.)</div><div><br /></div><div>-We were also invited to the Montgomery Kotei in May. We may go to it. The Lafayette guys offered to let us share a hotel room with them, but I don't know if we will or not. We were also invited to a Kotei in Texas, but that is farther than we are willing to go.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And the last highlight of the day for me. I was shocked when they named me Best Sportsman. Of course, as soon as Wilbur said 'she' everyone knew who had won. It was said that even though I had some bad games (I lost a lot and some of them were REALLY bad...) I stayed cheerful through the whole day and continued to play. Then taught someone else how to play the game. I'm sure I turned red after hearing all that. But, I went there as a fairly new player only intending to learn. I learned with every game, so there was no reason to get upset. I got a few packs of cards and an awesome honor counter. Since I play honor running decks (as opposed to military) this will be very useful. And I had been planning to purchase one anyway. </div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-32906362758804196252010-03-07T19:23:00.002-06:002010-03-07T19:26:09.702-06:00Just the quick news...The Uni is closed for Spring Break. YAY!!!! And I'll be driving up to have lunch with my sister on that Wednesday, then spend the rest of the week with Momma. It should be fun. Other than the driving, although I have several audiobooks on my MP3 player to handle that.<div><br /></div><div>And, my office was supposed to relocate just before Spring Break. This has been postponed until Easter. Maybe everything will be done for us to move then. We were originally supposed to move at Christmas. Of course, I already have everything boxed up that I can possibly work without. I'll be getting more boxes for the office this week. We HAVE to be ready considering how we have complained with each setback. I'm ready for this to be finished. I hate waiting!</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-37055800080874183362010-03-01T20:00:00.002-06:002010-03-01T20:13:29.105-06:00Kotei Upcoming!This weekend is a relatively local Kotei. It's a 4 hour drive, but it's the closest we'll get.<div><br /></div><div>Of course, I should actually say what a Kotei is, shouldn't I? My husband is major into a collective card game, Legend of the 5 Rings, or L5R. It's a fun game that I also enjoy playing. I just don't get quite as into it as he does. :) A Kotei is one of the major tournaments for the game. Winners of a regional Kotei are pre-qualified for the big events, such as the tournament at GenCon or the European championships.</div><div><br /></div><div>None of the folks going from Hattiesburg have a chance of winning. But it will be fun to see folks that play, and to get some playing in. I'm technically a noob, as I have not played much. I have played in two tournaments before though. But nothing like this. The other cool thing about the Kotei is that <a href="http://www.steveargyle.com/">Steve Argyle</a>, a fantastic artist, will be there. Josh will definitely be picking up some prints from him. And, even if I chose not to participate in the actual Kotei, $20 apparently allows you to play in draft games all day long. I imagine that after we lose a few games and are out of the Kotei playing, we will all do some drafting. I suck at draft. But it is a great way to get cards!</div><div><br /></div><div>Josh talked to one of the players in Lafayette, LA, and he gave a ton of suggestions to improve my deck. I can't wait to see how it works out. It will be a tiring day, especially with 8 hours on the road, but it will be fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, our gaming group has a name and t-shirts. We are the Unstored, because there is not a store in our state, last I knew. (There might be now, but it isn't in our area.) I have t-shirt with the logo on it to wear this weekend. Josh and Joe, a friend who is major into the game as well, have shirts with their own cards on the back. The rule is, once you play in a Kotei you can have a card. We are working on mine now. I play the Phoenix clan, and we've decided I will likely use an animal avatar, a wolf. Now I just have to figure out everything else!!!</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-54937221708422251532010-02-24T11:35:00.003-06:002010-02-24T11:42:49.779-06:00Sometimes things just get a little nuts. Last night I asked my database teacher for some lab stuff to work on. Her response was that she would give it next week. Considering she's covered the same lecture material for the past three classes, I'm getting very bored. I've already finished the entire Access lab book. So I guess I'll work on my Access presentation, and maybe we'll actually get some Oracle lab stuff next week. (She had SAID she was going to give it to us 2 weeks ago...)<div><br /></div><div>Also, last night I went shopping for tights and a half-slip. Did you know that Wal-Mart doesn't carry slips anymore? I went to TWO different stores looking. I did find some cool tights though. And apparently still had a slip in the closet, so I'm not worrying about static cling today with my skirt. (And the slip is one of those with legs, so I'm also not dealing with the shuffling sound of my tight-covered thighs rubbing together when I walk!!!) </div><div><br /></div><div>If you're wondering, I'm dressed up today because we're going to the wake for a co-worker's father at noon today. It's nice to dress up, but I know why I never do it. My hair took 20 minutes this morning!</div><div><br /></div><div>I also went to weigh in this morning. I weighed in at 222 again, no change. But that could be due to the heavy skirt and tights. I'm not worried though. I tracked, and I didn't gain. It sometimes takes a week or two for changes to show up on the scale anyway. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>In other news, in worrying about dressing properly to attend the wake, I completely forgot to bring in my stuff for class this afternoon. But my boss said she would run me by the apartment after we eat lunch (after attending the wake). Living right at campus is a positive at times!</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-75671935960448661182010-02-23T16:13:00.002-06:002010-02-23T16:20:35.290-06:00A Brilliant Day?Today has been weird. Especially when a coworker told a kid to take her"password and broil it." Sorry, that statement was awesome enough to share.<div><br /></div><div>It is crazy hot in our office. I'm always hot, but my coworker (the one that was alwyas freezing so I quit complaining about the heat) needed to borrow my fan for a few minutes. Maybe they will fix the a/c this time. It seems so weird so say that considering there is snow in the forecast for tomorrow.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was right on target with my points yesterday. Today I think I might go over a little. I'll have maybe 6 or 7 points when I get home. (I started the morning out badly...) But tomorrow I weigh in and start a new week. With any luck I won't get sick and binge after a day or two. I haven't felt a real need to binge since Thursday's episode. So it should all be good! And, tonight is tacos because they are quick to cook since I'm limited in time before class.</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-30049046820701108682010-02-22T19:21:00.002-06:002010-02-22T19:42:24.744-06:00Another Monday....Today was definitely Monday. It actually started on a positive note. I woke up AND got out of bed this morning. Sometimes it's 7 before I manage it, but I did it without an alarm this morning. I was up at 5:30. I enjoyed an incredibly leisurely morning before work. This was a good thing because it got pretty crazy at times!<div><br /></div><div>Between lunchtime and class time this afternoon I hurt my wrist (the one I had surgery on last year). I was moving some kid's desktop replacement that weighed 15 pounds. After class I went to the apartment to pick up my old wrist brace. I think wearing it for the rest of the afternoon has helped a lot. I haven't put it back on since supper, but it will be going back on soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finance class was actually good today. I made a 100 on my test last week. Now, if I can only keep the grade up like that!</div><div><br /></div><div>And, the diet update. I finished out my flex points last night. All 35 are gone. I may or may not go over on my points tonight. I still have 2 left, so it's iffy. Depends on what kind of snack I might want later on. I'm not worried if I do though. I've tracked all my walking this week, even if I haven't calculated the points. I walked three miles on two different days this week, so I'm not really worried. Just curious to see the results Wednesday morning.</div><div><br /></div><div>On a slightly different note, the Uni is currently doing a recyclethon. My department has a team. I took in a bag of recycling to the office tonight. I don't think our office will win though. There's a possibility that we may pull out of the contest. Apparently another portion of the department is having problems storing the stuff all week. Oh well. If we don't stay in, at least I know a lot of office cleaning went to recycling this past month! (Too bad it started AFTER my office did our major cleaning at Christmas. I know we sent a TON of stuff to recycling!)</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-15625614064823974782010-02-20T17:24:00.003-06:002010-02-20T17:47:44.337-06:00Surprise!I've had a couple of great surprises in my mailbox this week.<div><br /></div><div>Yesterday the package was something that Josh had ordered for me. He got me a set of minature opal dice! They are so cool....</div><div><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuFOE0SbpVdKujZY-8kQFvbFdwy2JXtU-TQ0_14wyuAt4cLCMSQFrc5E5B9VMYYmVj7UTM-3dMENl8lpKwbz9dm7EJMwOqJTPlhJoMOTuL7EkZkTjIRU5D3ep5kGJ6vhPzf8NzbBRLEcf/s1600-h/06311065084.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuFOE0SbpVdKujZY-8kQFvbFdwy2JXtU-TQ0_14wyuAt4cLCMSQFrc5E5B9VMYYmVj7UTM-3dMENl8lpKwbz9dm7EJMwOqJTPlhJoMOTuL7EkZkTjIRU5D3ep5kGJ6vhPzf8NzbBRLEcf/s320/06311065084.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440472902846818226" /></a><br />And today I had ANOTHER surprise. This one was somewhat unexpected. After the release of <i>Beyond the Night</i> by <a href="http://www.joss-ware.com/">Joss Ware</a>, I participated in a contest on her blog. Being a huge fan, I participated more for the opportunity to tell people about her new book than anything else. I own all of her books (I think!) written under different pen names. She is a fantastic writer. Anyway, the prize was e-galleys of the next two books in the series. I was surprised to win, although I probably shouldn't be considering I posted about the book everywhere I could think of. :)<div><br /></div><div>In the mailbox was not only a card for the two downloads, but also a SIGNED COPY of <i>Embrace the Night Eternal</i>, which I absolutely loved! (And also two bookmarks for the series. I can never have enough bookmarks...) I bought the book the day it came out and finished it shortly thereafter. But now I can give a copy to a friend. This was a very cool surprise today. Thanks Joss Ware!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, off to download <i>Abandon the Night</i>. I'm ready for Quent's story!<br /><div><div><br /></div></div></div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-63548046452990698782010-02-19T10:07:00.003-06:002010-02-19T10:12:35.478-06:00BingesWell, I'm doing ok on my tracking this week. I have honestly written down everything. Including my small binge last night. I had felt like crap all day (even took some time off work because I felt so bad). Needless to say, I was not cooking. So we ended up doing Sonic for supper. <div><br /></div><div>Did you know that a Sonic corn dog is 7 points? I had two of those. And tater tots (not so bad at 4 points). And a 20 oz. Pepsi. And a pack of snack cakes that were 6 points. I ended up using 24 of my flex points. On the second day of the week. But, I will make it through. I don't guarantee that I will stay within my flex points this week. But I will continue to write it down so that I can know what I have done. This is the trick to Weight Watchers success.</div><div><br /></div><div>On another note, while I have kept track of my activity, I have not used the points towards food. Of course, all I have done this week is walking around campus as well. While the points add up this way since I did about 3 miles Wednesday, I'm going to wait a week or two before I even consider claiming activity points for getting to and from work. I know that focusing on my food is important, as well as eventually finding my way into the gym at a time I can actually get an elliptical machine to exercise on...</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-38856492031813472792010-02-17T10:17:00.002-06:002010-02-17T10:46:58.367-06:00Mood Swings...It's crazy sometimes what can cause your mood to swing. I was on a high when I posted earlier about my little weigh loss goal/challenge. Now I'm rather pissed.<div><br /></div><div>At work my pens tend to walk off when I'm not at my desk. This wasn't as much a problem when our office bought our own supplies. However, now the main departmental office across campus does. And we don't get restocked often. So, I've been bringing my own pens so I have a decent one to write with. And keeping a crappy 'someone left it here' pen around of others to use.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, I've lost at least yet another pen. The ONLY ballpoint pen I owned. This makes at least 20 pens of mine that have walked off. In about 2 years. I guess I'll make a run by the other office to see if I can get some pens at lunch. Because all I have left are my REALLY NICE pens. </div><div><br /></div><div>Why can't people respect other folks possessions and work space????</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok, off my rant and on to lunch. I will hopefully be feeling better when I get back.</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-57510797282532967522010-02-17T09:03:00.004-06:002010-02-17T09:11:09.710-06:00Wednesday Weigh InWell, I'm posting weigh in results for the first time in a few weeks. I weighed in at 222 this morning. That's a loss for last week, but I'm not sure about a loss since the last time I actually posted.<div><br /></div><div>However, I'm starting anew today. <a href="http://thetigerspride.blogspot.com/">Tigerlilly</a> decided to challenge herself to lose 15 lbs by her birthday. And she tossed out a casual invite for others to do it with her. It just so happens that her birthday is right at my 10-year high school reunion.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I'm going to join her. I'm doing mine according to my WW week, so I'm starting with today as day one. My last weigh in for this will be April 21st, with my reunion tentatively scheduled for the 24th. I think it's very doable. Especially if I can manage to make it to the gym. Or do some real exercise at home.</div><div><br /></div><div>To help myself, I bought a 12-week journal at WW this morning. And, to take it one step further, I would actually like to be BELOW 200 lbs when I finish off that journal. That would actually put me losing more than 15 by my reunion most likely, which is perfectly fine with me!!!</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-44182760964714309782010-02-15T15:41:00.003-06:002010-02-15T15:48:21.127-06:00Need a New book?I've recently seen a <a href="http://sidhevicious.wordpress.com/2010/02/13/eos-book-giveaway/">great contest</a> up at Sidhe Vicious Reviews. It has three great sounding books up, and you can get an entry into the contest just for following the blog and stating which book you would like and why.<div><br /></div><div>All the options look terrific, but it's the fantasy novel, <i>Dragon Keeper</i> by Robin Hobb, that caught my attention this time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, take a look. See if one catches your eye.</div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8146277717058457315.post-79670605281389065482010-02-14T22:43:00.002-06:002010-02-14T22:46:28.292-06:00An Upcoming Book I'm Excited About<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT_qsajdq8FQOhVzuiSyz9QASF-Nqz2WeJK0NrPGmKlmWPk1Yq0jsFCvd94lD7hIKHpM_REt0br_Sa60F6Z-qadISZJJdzLYRKmN8Sid7nbT8GVF5MGfPXT4AAd0Pw5xq_xNDyQKX63PqX/s1600-h/broken-sml.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 146px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT_qsajdq8FQOhVzuiSyz9QASF-Nqz2WeJK0NrPGmKlmWPk1Yq0jsFCvd94lD7hIKHpM_REt0br_Sa60F6Z-qadISZJJdzLYRKmN8Sid7nbT8GVF5MGfPXT4AAd0Pw5xq_xNDyQKX63PqX/s320/broken-sml.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438326710983726690" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://shilohwalker.com/excerpt_broken.htm">Read More</a><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://shilohwalker.com/excerpt_broken.htm"></a><br />Shattered<br /><br /><br />Quinn Rafferty is working as a bounty hunter and bail bondsman in St. Louis when a new neighbor catches his eye. He’s tempted by her beauty—but he knows from experience that anyone desperate enough to live in his building is damaged goods. Besides, he has his own soul to mend before he can worry about anyone else.<br /><br /><br />Desperate<br /><br /><br />Sara Davis is on the run, but not for the usual reasons a woman goes on the lam. She’s not an abused wife, and she’s not a criminal. But she does have a plan for her future. And as much as she finds herself attracted to her gruff, tough neighbor, she can’t risk telling him the secrets she’s hiding. There’s just too much at stake.<br /><br /><br />Driven to desire…<br /><br /><br />But Quinn must get closer to Sara when she turns out to be the target of his new missing persons case, and he discovers that there is something more complex and dangerous to her than he thought. Now, both Quinn and Sara will have to expose their true feelings—as well as their fragile hearts—if they hope their love will survive…<br /><br />EXCERPT<br />He opened the door—<br /><br />And stopped dead in his tracks as somebody all but fell into his arms. Somebody…a woman. And not Theresa.<br /><br />He caught her just above her elbows, automatically steadying her.<br /><br />“I’m sorry,” she said, her voice soft and low.<br /><br />Then she lifted her face and Quinn found himself gazing into the biggest, brownest eyes he’d ever seen in his life. Feeling a little dazed, he studied her face while she stammered out another apology.<br /><br />Quinn barely heard it.<br /><br />He was too busy staring at her mouth. A very pretty mouth, a cupid’s bow mouth slicked with deep, vibrant red. Under his hands, he could feel silken smooth skin and unable to resist, he stroked a thumb along her inner arm.<br /><br />Her skin was soft, soft and warm. He was also pretty sure she had the creamiest, most flawless skin imaginable. Her shoulder-length hair was a shade caught between blonde and brown, nondescript, but for some reason, he found himself thinking about tangling his fingers in that hair and holding her head still while he kissed that red-slicked mouth.<br /><br />Well, hello…<br /><br /><a href="http://shilohwalker.com/excerpt_broken.htm">read more…</a></div>Coryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09577996840747125362noreply@blogger.com0