Tax Return and The Rule of 3rds

I'm doing the happy/relieved dance today! The Tax Return came in! My Sailor and I decided to use the rule of Thirds to decided where the money goes this year. 1/3rd will go to bills. 1/3rd will go to savings. 1/3rd will go to us. Man, does it feel good to see that extra money sitting there!

This is the first year since 2001 that I've gotten money back on my taxes. As a single adult with a good job - the government LOVES to stick it to ya. Sure, we're paying for important things, but I'm happy if I break even. I'm THRILLED if I get something back! Now to decide which bill gets to disappear! I'll be checking out interest rates and making sure it goes to the highest one.

We're also going to be cutting back a bit when we move. We'll be canceling cable - which makes me VERY happy. Currently, we pay over $100/month for internet at TV. My Sailor wanted his sport channels when we moved and didn't really have an idea on how little he'd be home. Now that he does, it's time to cut that back. He's rarely home enough to catch a full game, and I prefer to head to the sports bar for a change of scenery and a beer. Most sports networks are available online, so we're going to let the cable TV go. We have a computer and a PS3 hooked up to that TV. We can watch things on Hulu.com or online for free or next to free. This has the potential to result in a savings for $750 PER YEAR! Pretty significant if you ask me!

I'm not used to being financially stable. I'm used to freaking out over money. It's kind of funny how it's working out. Sure, I'm still the chief breadwinner (what do you expect? I've been at my job since 2005), and I handle most of the money, but we make decisions together regarding how to save or spend it. I think it's proving to be a nice balance for me. I'm making headway in paying down my debt, my car is paid off, and we're looking at BUYING A HOUSE! Yeah, I know. I've mentioned it before. We're waiting on our pre-approval.

It looks like it's going to happen in this order:
House
Wedding
Baby

So that brings up the last one on that list - Baby. We're talking about starting the adoption process at the same time we pull the goalie, since chases are more than likely that my body won't cooperate. Filing for adoption will take the stress off for "must have something that looks like us", so in some ways, it might actually INCREASE our odds of getting pregnant.

I wrestle a little bit with the kid thing because it means I seriously need to beef up my writing resume, so I can work part time at my day job, and bring some money freelance writing. My current gigs pay in bragging rights mostly. I'm VERY proud to be following my passion and be part of the Celebrations Press team. It's my FAVORITE gig and I'm hoping to expand it. If I had the funds, I'd LOVE to do a Disney Parks International column for them as well. So far, I haven't been able to afford to take research trips to Tokyo, Paris, or Hong Kong, but the desire is there!

But I know I'll have to get books rolling if I want to get out of the Medical Coding world. Medical coding just pays really well and is steady. Being a starving artist is overrated.

So we'll see how things pan out, but one thing is certain -
Little Sailor's first trip to Disney is going to ROCK!

Some New Goals

It's been an... eventful past couple days...so you'll have to excuse my blogging silence as I process things.

Because I think I complain far too much - first, the good stuff!

Tomorrow, My Sailor and I are going to look at a few houses. Yeah! They are short sales or foreclosures. I'm more excited than scared. The scary part will come tomorrow morning when we find out how much we're approved for.

It's a new chapter - with some old vocabulary thrown in the mix -

Like the term "Finding Nemo". My Sailor will have lots of time to look for him this time, so that means, I'll have LOTS of time on my hands to accomplish things! First up, a weekend in So Cal with Sistah' Girl this summer.

I don't have anything else planned at the moment, but I am considering a solo trip somewhere - since I have plenty of vacation to use up this year.

Aside from that, the Run For Your Life Zombie 5k in Portland/Seattle in August! Hopefully My Sailor will be there with me! We've registered to run as prospect survivors, AND to chase people as Zombies! It also includes overnight camping! Should be fun!

I'm waiting on my new shoes before I start training for ANYTHING. Don't want to screw up my feet even more and REALLY set myself back!

(I also ordered a Fitbit! Can't wait to see how that helps me keep my health on track!)

But tonight I'm happy to report that I got 41 minutes of Just Dance 3 on "Sweat" mode. It was a blast! I signed up for a 7 day challenge to help keep me focused and in shape over the next couple months.

I've also been out of the house twice. I do notice that I'm stammering more when I talk to people, even on the phone lately. Oy! The side-effects of me not getting out enough means I get a tad anxious when talking to new people, and I stumble and trip over my words to say what I mean to say.  It's an embarrassing habit I hold to LOSE  before I meet My Sailor's family and friends on 2 weeks.

The bad news was sort of laced in there. My Sailor is VERY busy at the Sub and will be for at least the rest of this year. It makes me even more grateful to look back on my past and see how far I've come.

But it does take me a little while to process all this - between 12 hour work days (worked over 50 hrs this week) and the house stuff - and reminding myself to take care of me...which reminds me... Me needs a bubble bath and some book time before bed tonight. Off I go!

Just because I'm home does not mean I'm available.

Dear Upstairs Neighbor -
  I do my best to come to the door with a smile on face when you knock, and say hi when you happen to be on your deck as I come in and or out of my unit. With all due respect, our lifestyles are not condusive to any substantial relationship, but I'm more than happy to be friendly. I understand that living on a lower unit in a building built in the 1980's says there isn't a lot that can be done about the noise of your kids running around like rhinos, and I'm sure that occasionally you hear my TV or what not from down here.
  Just because I'm home does not, however, mean I am available to answer the door. Due to the large number of solicitor's lately, I don't answer the front door during the day unless I'm expecting a package delivery or repairman.
  However, knocking the rear sliding glass door of my apartment is not okay. Ever. I will never answer a knock on the rear glass door short of an emergency. (Even in that case, emergency workers announce themselves.)
   Especially after 10pm at night.
  Yes, I know you knew I was home. I know you could hear my TV.  However, I was watching Game of Thrones with My Sailor and was unavailable to attend to your need - even if you had knocked at my front door.
  Sincerely,
The Downstairs Gal

Relocation Nation - Legs 2 and 3, complete



Mt. Shasta looms in the distance.



I'm blogging this briefly from my hotel room in Tacoma, Washington. I'm completely exhausted from 3 days of sitting on my butt in a moving vehicle. (How does that even happen?! That level of inactivity is just exhausting!)

Anyway, the second night ended in Redding, California. This was arguably the most BORING leg of the trip, as far as scenery went. HOWEVER, it definately makes me never want to eat standard farm raised beef again! We passed several farms, but the cattle ranches were AWEFUL. It wasn't the smell of "fresh fertilizer". That much I expected. Sure, it stunk, but the cows were kept in such close quarters that they the ground wasn't even the hard tan clay color you'd expect (and see) all over Southern California. It was a deep brown color, probably due to the constant urinating and "fertilizing" of the small corrals. Ew. ew. Ew.

Sleeping in the passenger seat

We passed the smaller cattle ranches and the strangest thing happened - you couldn't smell the cows from 10 miles away. The ground? It was growing tall grasses that the SPREAD OUT cattle were grazing on. I'd feel MUCH better eating one of those animals, than the commercially raised one... ew.

By the time we pulled into Redding, it was late at night. Being exhausted (and sick), I didn't see too much of the place until the sun came up.

Backseat Boxer

Leg 3 of the drive was very rewarding. While it was one of our LONGEST days driving, it was beautiful to drive around Mt. Shasta and into Oregon. Having never been through Oregon before (at least not that I can recall), it was a lovely surprise. I can't wait to explore it more, and I can see why people fall in love with living there. It's so lovely and reminded me of what I think of when I think of "America" - a balanced view of men living with nature, instead of the paving over and transplant of it that I've found to be the standard of living in California. 

I was on the phone with My Sailor when I crossed the bridge and officially entered Washington state! It seemed fitting since he's coming on this journey with me, even though he can't be here right now. (Check out our blog here to get more info on the status of his move.)

Sleeping in the back of the SUV on his comfy bed.

 

So how is Clydas handling the change? Well, he's NEVER been big on eating while on road trips. I let him go 48 hours (and one heartburn episode - which is common with boxers) without eating (though his food in his bowl is available) before giving him some healthy human options. Today he got 2 hard boiled eggs, 1 small chicken breast (considered  6-inches of "double meat" from my subway sandwich), and a few chicken treats. It's healthy and it's "something" (better than nothing)!  I'm sure he'll be "expecting" more "special treatment" when we get into the apartment tomorrow. Well, he'll be out of luck! We've had these "I'm not eating until you give me something special" stand off's better. I've been giving in just a tad and feeding him plain yogurt mixed over his kibble. Seems to work, and it's a cheap healthy way to give him a little extra treat.

Back to work! More of a run down of the new place later.

Relocation Nation: Getting the T for the Road

Me and The T - during our first summer

Today my dad and I took The T (my 2006 Pontiac Torrent - lovingly refered to as "J's T") into the shop to get looked it. My dad couldn't believe that my car has over 106k miles on it and STILL runs like a dream. It needed an oil change (it was overdue a few months) and a light bulb in the license plate holder (thankfully, I don't drive enough to get ticketed for this - Yeah for working from home and walking everywhere!). It's had a 2 new sets of tires and 2 new sets of brakes, and that's pretty much it. It's never had a major problem. Dad has insisted on many occasions that, with that kind of mileage and no major issues, it's about to blow. My dad is a pretty smart guy so he may be right, but for now The T has a clean bill of health!

Clydas and I are ready to hit the road this time next week!

Relocation Nation: Emotional Processing

Most of the time, when I talk about the big move coming up, I'm ready to say goodbye to my hometown for a while and blaze a new trail in Washington state.

But every once in a while, I miss home.
The thing I miss most?

 My family.

We have a close, casual relationship. They are a huge support and help with this new chapter of my life and I'm going to miss going out to breakfast with my parents on weekends, and getting the "Wanna do dinner together?" random phone calls. Sure they could still call me, but it'll be a 2 hour flight and a few $100 plane ticket to take them up on it.

Yes, I'll be visiting home often, I'm sure. ESPECIALLY with the wedding right around the corner.

I had a good cry about it a couple of weeks back. I knew it was coming. It's necessary to moarn the past to move into the future sometimes.

But knowing I'm building a stronger present and future is worth every tear and moment of homesickness.

And knowing that My Sailor is taking this adventure with me?

Priceless.

Relocation Nation - You can take the girl out of California...

But I don't think you can ever take the California out of the girl.

The other day, I was caught saying "Dude!" about something cool. Yup, that's right. "Dude" is part of my vocabulary. It most likely always will be long after the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Bill and Ted are distant memories.

Here's a short list of the things I am planning to do before I leave this beautiful state behind for the splendor of the green Pacific Northwest:
1) Disneyland solo.
2) Disneyland w/ friends.
3) Spend as much time with family as possible.
4) Enjoy at least one good hike in the countryside.
5) Enjoy some good time on the beach.
6) Enjoy as much time outside reading in the jacuzzi as possible.
7) Throw 1 dinner w/ friends.
8) Take a tour of Stone Brewery.
9) Get the T serviced for the long drive north.
10) Go to the movies with my brother at least once.


Top 10 things to do when I'm in Washington:
1) UNPACK and decorate the new place.
2) Enjoy a fire in the fireplace and a glass of wine.
3) Get Clydas a good dog bed.
4) Explore the antique shops on the waterfront.
5) Try the 2 sushi places.
6) Buy a Mountain Bike.
7) Find a good breakfast/coffee shop spot.
8) Try out the little local movie theater.
9) Meet the other 3 boxer dog owners on the apartment property.
10) Take the ferry to Bremerton and Seattle.

So there is plenty to do in the next 3 weeks. Obviously some of my Washington top 10 can wait until My Sailor joins me,but I'm looking forward to getting set up and starting something new, even if leaving my hometown is a big sad and scary.

Relocation Nation - The Homestead visit

My parents were gracious enough to send me to Washington to look at the little place that I'll be moving into next month. Here's a montage to show you a bit of my experience. It was a very quick trip. Up and back same day, spending about as much time on the ground as I did in planes.

But it was a fun, remarkable day and I'm glad I got to explore this place a little bit. It really reminds me of my hometown (Escondido) about 20 years ago - if you stuck it on the water. I can't wait to get a bike and get it up and moving!

Without further preamble, here you go!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

PROS:
Very safe feel in the small neighborhood.
3 major grocery chains nearby.
2 sushi places nearby.
Great fitness center and amenities.
Rent is MUCH cheaper.
Old movie theater right around the corner.
Large bedrooms.
Fireplace.
2 jacuzzis
2 dry Saunas.
Good basketball court.
Dog friendly (there are 3 other boxers on property).
Darker carpeting (Great for when you have a dog and the weather leaves the ground a little slushy).
Community Breakfasts every Sunday in the community center.
Very affordable area.
Apartment community is small.
Flexible lease lengths.
It's a small town.
They have a great community theater I can get involved with!


CONS:
Actual apartment is smaller than I expected.
The town is a small town - meaning everything rolls up around 6-9pm. There isn't a whole lot of recreational stuff to do in town.
There are places where this town is showing it's age and rides the very fine line between "quaint" and "historic"... and run down. (But what city doesn't have a few run down areas?)

Summary:
This was a very positive experience overall, and I'm looking forward to starting a new chapter of my life with the turning of the season.

Relocation Nation - Self Moving vs Moving Company

In all of my 11 moves since birth, I’ve never moved more than a few miles from one place to the next.  As far back as I can remember, we’ve always done our moves ourselves. Just grab a UHAUL and a few friends , day laborers, or (as was the case in my last move) Navy Corpmen, and viola! The move is in high gear and done before ya know it.

Moving up the coast is significantly different.

I’ve checked into moving companies and got a lot of very promising estimates. However, as soon as I call friends and family for references, I UNANIMOUSLY get “DON’T USE A MOVING COMPANY!”  Apparently nearly all of the big names have ripped off someone in my family/friends  over the years.  Many of them promise great rates at their estimate, but don’t live up to them, requiring a large amount over what was originally quoted.

Well, I don’t have an extra thousand dollars to throw around, so I’m probably taking the “self move” option.

But there are different stages of “self moving” that I’ve found.

There is the “Rent-A-U-Haul-And-Drive-It-Yourself-With-A-Dog-in-tow” option. This requires someone else to follow me and drive my SUV as I don’t trust mountain roads and my driving-while-towing or parking-while-towing skills (especially w/ a lovable, excited, yet confused boxer dog in the car with me).

There is also the “pod” option. The pod company comes buy and drops off a pod at my place. I load it for 2 days, and then they pick it up. I pack in my car (and maybe my brother’s truck) whatever I’ll need for about 2 weeks and we drive up. It’s about a 21 hour drive straight through (which I’m sure I’d take in at least 2 days). Once I arrive, I’d set up what I’ve brought up with me (which must include by work computer equipment, Clydas’ crate, a few changes of clothes, and whatever other odds and ends I might need. Then it’ll camping out in the new place until the Pod is delivered about a week and ½ later. Then I hire a couple of big strong guys to help unload it and viola! I’m all moved in! The pod option is more expensive (considerably) than the Uhaul option, however quite frankly it feels safer and simpler.

By this point, you’re probably thinking, “Huh? Why isn’t Your Sailor helping you out with this?” Well, he is, but he can’t physically be there. By the time he arrives in the same state, I’ll be all set up and (hopefully) a little familiar with the place. Trust me, he’d LOVE to be there (and I’d LOVE to have him there) but Navy wives are pretty self-sufficient bunch who know when to rely on friends, when to hire help, and when a little elbow grease will get the job done. I consider myself in training.

Relocation Nation - The Get-to-Know-You game

This Saturday, I'm off for a quick trip to Washington to check out the new digs! Things are really speeding along (hence my lack of blogging of late).  While we don't have My Sailor's orders yet, there is a very very very very good chance that he'll be stationed in Washington, so we're going for it (though we should know for sure with the next 4 weeks).  I've applied and been approved for a 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, Clydas-Friendly apartment on the Kitsap Penninsula. I am getting more and more excited for this new adventure as it gets closer.

But, did I mention that this trip will be QUICK?!

I'm flying there Saturday morning and flying back Saturday night. Talk about speedy, eh? Less than 24 hours on the ground in Washington state. Short of a layover, I think this is the quickest trip I've ever taken to another state.

I'm making the rounds with friends, calling different moving companies (more on that in another entry), and doing what I can to plan this wedding. Click here for the blog My Sailor and I will be updating. Expect more updates as the date gets closer. Right now, we're thinking early November in Washington, but, of course we can't plan anything for sure until we find out more about his deployment schedule.

Hopefully I'll find a coffee shop that has internet, so I can share some photos from what will be my new home town, but if not, I'm sure there will be an awesome montage in the future. ;)

Relocation preperation - bittersweet

For those of you just catching up with this blog, here's my history: I've lived in Escondido, in 10 places now, in my 31 years of life. I've traveled all over the world - England, Australia, Mexico, etc - but I've only lived in Escondido, California.

There are some great things about growing up with a town. Escondido is FAR from the farm town it was when my parents moved here. I've seen things grow and change over the years. So saying good-bye isn't the easiest thing in the world. It's odd to see a poster for some summertime event and think "I won't be here for that."

But at the same time, the new life and new town that awaits my exploration is deeply exciting. Instead of spending precious time moping about what I'm leaving behind, I'm looking forward to getting settled in the new place.

I'm making a to-do-upon-arrival list to help me keep looking foward:
* Find a gym I like.
* Find a coffee shop.
* Locate Farmer's Markets
* Locate health food stores
* Locate pet stores that carry Clydas' food (my dog has some allergies)
* Find a movie theater
* GET A MOUNTAIN BIKE! (This one is pretty high on the list, since its the perfect way to get around and get to know a new town.)
* Get Clydas an orthopedically awesome bed so his old joints will be eased in the cold.
* Find a browsable book store
* Invest in sweaters and nice thick socks and jeans.

Anything else you guys can think of? I'd love some insight! The new place has some hiking trails I already can't wait to explore.

Movin' on up!

So I've officially been moved into my new place for a little over a week now, and things are going great. It's so nice to be warm and dry during the cold, rainy weather that has dominated the Calfornia skies lately. If you haven't already, check out my Wellness blog for some of the stair counts and information about the property. I'm taking the bus now daily, and it's helping me with punctuality (something I've struggled w/ at times) and destressing. It's amazing how nice it is not having to deal with traffic in the mornings and at night - and just curling up on a seat with a good book. No one has bothered me, so I guess I have a decent way of blending in, or a visible "GO AWAY" tattood across my forehead.

I've also been cast in another original musical, "Rasputin the musical, a very very very dark comedy". I'm basically the comic reliefe (which is actually a bit ironic because I've never considered myself funny). It's a brand new show that I'm very happy to be involved with. Originating a show is great. I love being able to discover new things. I wish we had a longer run (1 weekend just isn't long enough;by the time the reviews come out, the show is closed), but it's going to be really funny, with some great talent in the leads.

All that said - that's just a quick update. I'm working on a longer, thought out and insightful blog, but that's waiting as I'm waiting for the cable guy to come get my network set up next week.

Pictures/montage of the new place to come soon!

Goodnight, Whisper House. Goodbye Lake House

Quote of the blog: "If we are growing, we're always going to be out of our comfort zone." John Maxwell

Last weekend, I saw the final performance of Whisper House at the Old Globe. The evolution of a live theatrical production from opening night to closing night is amazing - especially with a new show. Things just get better and better, more and more cohesive, and more and more edgy with this cast and show. I'm excited to see where this show finds itself in a few years! (And I can say I was there for their very first show for their very first run, and the very last show of the first run!) Someday, I hope to work with the amazing talent at the Old Globe. I'm never disappointed when I see one of their productions.

That said, the evolution of change in itself is pretty interesting. Since I'm in the midst of a move, I feel it profoundly. Sometimes it seems as if it's not just my location that's changing. I mean, sure, I'm moving to a condo in the same city I've lived in for my entire 30 years of life, but I still feel it ripple through my box-ridden house.

The lifestyle will be very different from what I'm used to out in the sticks. I doubt I'll hear a distant rooster in the morning when I step out the door. Or the hoot of an owl or call of bats in the evening. The stars will be a little dimmer in the city as well. However, there also will be less bugs (which would be nice, though I don't mind most of them), vermin (rats and opposums are pretty much standard when you're living in the woods), and luxuries like "insulation", "double pane windows", and a marvelous invention called a "dishwasher". ;) I'm trading neighbors I don't share walls with and a yard for city life. Which is in some ways great! The weeds are already up to my waist and more inclimate weather is on it's way. The more rain, the more weeds.

Now, I won't have to worry about all that jazz. I'll come home to a warm safe little condo, that's actually been decorated beyond my usual "Salvation Army Chic" style. In some ways, it's almost intimidating! But I'm really looking forward to the biggest trade off of all -

GETTING DEEPER INTO MY ART!

Life alone has been so financially restrictive, that I've had to stop auditioning and stop working on my album. So I'm very excited to audition more and to be able to really give this dream a fighting chance to grow, rather than put it on the back burner. "It" (acting/singing/writing) has been in my blood from day one. Ignoring it only makes me feel aweful - frustrated, depressed, etc. It's that need to express to communicate (as they say in RENT) that makes artists artists.

As I spend my last week in the Lake House, I find myself more driven then ever to carry with me the life lessons I've learned:

Some Risks are WORTH taking.

Sometimes taking a risk means saying goodbye to the familiar.

If you'll regret never trying, then give it your all.

There is no "try". There is only do and do not do. (Thanks Yoda!)

Those that are best at their passion have two things in common - 1) a healthy obsession for whatever stirs their soul
2) the inability to stop following their dreams.
(Of course, I learned all THAT by following Lou Mongello's example!)

So I have a challenge for you, dear readers (ye brave, ye few). Find something this week you've been putting on the back burner - no matter how silly or small it may seem, and do SOMETHING about it - big or small. It's so easy to rationalize away the things that really make us special and unique.

What have you neglected too long?
What will you do about it?

I'll check in next week and we'll see what we all DID about our forgotten dreams and how our "something" turned out! Why? Because we contribute our best to everyone and to the world when we are true!

The grossest bugs on the face of the planet.

There is one thing that has come up that is making it oh-so-much easier to leave this house. And that's the newest infestation - ear wigs.

To me, these are the grossest, most irritating bugs on the face of the planet. Why? As I told my friend, Flyboy, I had a bad experience that resulted in one of these things winding up in my mouth when I was a kid. (No, I didn't put it there.) That experience sufficently grossed me out FOREVER.

Apparently they like dark, damp places. Which probably means there is some considerable wood rot around my well lit door frames, because that's where they have been hanging out. Last night when BookWorm and I were hangin out, I ended up squishing 3 of them during the course of a conversation as they attempted to make their way across the living room floor. EW EW EW!!!

Something tells me I'll be able to leave these guys behind when I get into my 2nd story condo. :)

Housewarming warm up

So my move is about 2 weeks away (yikes!) and I'm still in the process of packing, selling, etc.

But to help keep myself excited about the move, I've started thinking of my new homecoming/housewarming. I've found a few items that I plan on adding to my new place when I get the chance!

Here are the top two things on my list:

Yes, that's right. They are both BOOKS! I'm in dire need of getting caught up with my favorite authors. Afterall, I need SOMETHING to read by the jacuzzi! Last time I lived in a condo complex with a decent jacuzzi, I was in there almost every day.

An Echo in the Bone promises to be the final book in a fairly extensive series. It's an amazing historical fiction/fantasy mix. Imagine being a female doctor of England in the 1970's, and being accidentally, mysteriously sent back in time to the 1700's while on holiday in Scottland. That's the premise behind the first book in the series. It's Claire's story of survival, and the different life she leads back there. (It isn't as easy as you think!) This promises to be my last oppurtunity to follow Jamie and Claire through their lives together (which, at last count, had brought them in the US during the revolutionary war, adult daughter -who was raised in the more current world - en tow).

Jacqueline Carey is another favorite author of mine (though I'm not a fan of her contemporary fiction - she does create some facinating characters). This particular series is proving to be her masterpiece, as far as I'm concerned. I've tried to read Banewreaker, and Santa Oliva - and neither have captured my attention like this elegantly written series. Can't wait to see what the next one has in store - especially since another one is due out June of this year!

I'm a pretty simple soul when it comes down to it.

Of course, I do plan on treating myself to some girlish goodies as well.


Yes, a bouqet of my favorite flowers will end up arriving at my door.

And I'm looking forward to 'em! (I would buy an orchid PLANT, but I'm great at killing 'em.)

Old Reliable and A Few New Things

This weekend was fairly productive in the moving front! Not that I got a lot moved, but I got a lot of the shopping done with my folks that I needed to get done.

See, they feel that I've never really had a "fresh start" anywhere. I'll admit, my style (which I'd describe as "earthy" and "relaxed") has never really had a too much a chance to develope, due to budget constraints. My moving history of the past several decade goes something like this:

2001 -
Moved from my room at my parent's house to my then-husband's apartment. Most of the things we had were a combination of wedding gifts, a couple of boxes he shipped from Boston (his home city), and some things from my room (like a book case). So it was perfectly functional and very "salvation army chic". (Please don't misunderstand - that isn't a complaint. We had some great times living broke. Some of the best dates were sitting on the floor - because we didn't have a table - eating pizza by candle light. Simplicity totally rocks.)

2003-
We moved into a house we split with 2 bachelors. So it was me, a couple of friends from grade school, and my then-husband. We didn't have the master, so we crammed into one room to save some money so we could buy some property. Most of our hand-me-down furniture was used to furnish the house, since the guys didn't have much when we came in.

2004-
We bought a condo in Escondido and moved in. Over time, we accumulated a few new things, but we never quite got the place set up. (I am definately to blame for this because it wasn't until AFTER the divorce that I realized how good it feels to REALLY unpack somewhere. Having been a nomad most of my life, I just got used to boxes.) While in the condo we bought a new bed, a media center (that we spent a very LONG night assembling), a new coffee table, and a couch. Finally - a sense of style started creeping into my life. I would look through home decorating magazines every once in a while and all that. It was a pretty well set up place in then end (once the boxes were dealt with).

2006-
Divorce forced an attempted shortsale on the condo. When that didn't work, we foreclosed and I had to move. So I moved into the lake house, taking most of the stuff from the condo that would fit. I didn't really purchase anything new from there. I replaced a couch, inherited a TV, and bought an armoir for my computer, and that was really about it. Everything else came over from the condo.

2010-
So now, here I am - downsizing into a condo that I'll share with a roomie (as soon as I find one). Funny though - I find myself totally at peace with this new change and excited for the future. My bargain shoppers' eye immediately goes towards what's least expensive (even when other people have said, "It's a gift! We want to get you whatever you want!") but I'm learning to speak up for myself more and more and express what I like, what I don't, etc.

I'm tempted to share photos of all the goodies I picked up this weekend, but I'll just post a few - and in the end, I'll just have to post some photos of the new digs vs the old digs. While my little lake cottage definately has it's charm, the earwig infestation that appears to be happening, and the constant cold/drafts remind me that it's time to move on!

CLICK ON THE PHOTOS TO BE TAKEN TO THE VENDOR'S WEBSITE.

My new glasses (I didn't get the pitcher - just the tall glasses and the tumbler) from World Market (LOVE that store).

Headboard from Peir One (it's woven beige and black sea grass rope)
There are a few things I consider to be "trademarks" of my living space though.

Friends know you can always count on me to have a tea pot and a variety of teas in stock. Usually, there is at least 1 good bottle of wine in the house as well (especially if I know company is coming over). It's important to me to know that I have those little bits of comfort around the house.

I guess one could consider this move (while only about 10 miles from the house I'm at now - if that) symbolic. I'm leaving, selling, or donating a lot of peices of my past - and moving into the future with a more portable, simplified, coordinated life style.

And, ya know what?

I think Clydas and I will be just fine.

It's funny, the things we keep...

Organizing (or attempting to organize) for a move is always an interesting experience. I always come across something I didn't expect. Tonight was no different.

As I went through the 'random stuff' drawer in the kitchen, I found a few interesting items.

A card from ProFlowers from the last set of flowers delivered to my house -
Dated in the summer of 2006, the card read simply:
"J-Babe, just wanted to let you know you're awesome. - Jon"
This guy earned major bonus points by sending me a large bundle of my favorite flowers, purple and white Dendrobium Orchids.







The best part of those flowers?
He wasn't apologizing.
There was no special occasion.
Yet he remembered my favorite flower, in my favorite color, and sent them for my favorite occasion -
Just Because.
Where's this Prince Charming Canidate now?
He's a happily married man, to someone I'm sure is a great fit for him. There's no doubt in my mind that she's being treated like a queen. And that thought makes me smile.

A scratcher good for a free $2 ticket
Who would have thought I would have let this little gem slip by me?
I don't normally purchase scratchers, or play the lottery. Every summer I buy a scratcher or two. I think the most I've ever won is $5. (Which, after you take out the cost of the ticket, is more like a $3 win.)
Who knows! Maybe the ticket this one gets me will make me a millionare (Ha! Yeah right!).

Random bits of poetry and quotes...
I've been known to jot down things that I find some deeper truth lurking in.
"Shaking your sword at the sky won't keep the sun from setting. " - Terry Goodkind
"Life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it." - Randy Pausch
Other times, well, I've always said, "Poetry is simply giving your heart the pen - and letting your soul take to page."

"Untitled" - J. Darling
I still remember that first kiss
Sometimes I live there
I remember it clearly
Simply in a parking lot
Unceremonious and sweet
Serenely passionate
A sudden perfect fit...
Gaurds stood down
Abundant hearts stood open

But...

Now there isn't time for kisses
Isn't time for breath
The storm never ends.
No respite
No luxury of time
No time for desire
Lips forgot how to kiss
Gaurds stand always armed
Trust splinted and shattered
lacking renew...
Faith broken
and I've not the heart strong enough to bridge it....

"Untitled" - J. Darling
This is how it starts
This is how always does
I remember it too well

I used to see the magic
That sparkle in the eye
Now I see the black
Of hair...the shoulder...
The well muscled back...

But then creeps on the hourglass
Stifling sands flood down
Drowning the "I miss you"s and "I'm thinking of you"s
Until we stumble on "I love you"
On our way to "Goodbye".

(As you, dear readers, can see, I'm fairly prolific, privately, when it comes to my love life. I just choose for it not to be the subject of debate at this time.)

I'm sure I'll find more things along this journey. Some, like the poetry and lottery ticket, are well worth savings. Others? Well, like the flower card, I enjoy the memory that makes me smile, wish my friend Jon well - and am happy to let that piece of my past go. And hopefully there will be more smiles delivered someday in my future for the best occasion of all... Just Because.

The move is on!

The move is finally a "go go go"!

Today I signed the final contract and on the 27th of Feb, the agent gets my money and I get the keys to the new digs!

I won't pretend I havent' had mixed feelings about the whole move thing. Afterall, the Lake House is the first place I really called home in my adult life. However, I always said I never wanted to be a slave to my house, and that's exactly what's been happening. With no cost of living increases at work, and no-semblence of one coming soon, I can only continuing living on my own if I don't want to do anything ever again. No trips, etc. It'll only be a matter of time before I can't afford to drive anywhere either. Afterall, California living isn't inexpensive, and even though I have a good job that pays me well, I can't keep this up on my own.

It's time to move on from solo living and cash on a roomie, insulation, a dishwasher, a gas range, granite counter tops, central heating and air, and extra pocket change. Thankfully, my parents are helping me out with new kitchen and living room stuff as part of a generous birthday gift. I'll admit, starting over is starting to sound good.

What's new? A LOT!

Today I find myself giddy about my upcoming Disneyworld Trip. It's the first time since 2005, and the first time ever without a romantic interest (or immediate family) along. So I can't wait.

That said, I realized that there are a lot of great, new things coming my way right now. Lots of options to act on. It's just a matter of making the necessary sacrifies, and following my heart.

So what's the new stuff?

Sunday I tried a new church I think I might just stick with. It's call TheMovement and is a non-denominational Christian church with lots to offer in my area as far as meeting new folks. Since a majority of my friends have moved away, it's time to start over and make a friendship base here once again. Now, that doesn't mean that I've forgotten those that migrated elsewhere. In fact, quite the opposite! I look forward to visiting and sending out care packages whenever I can! But it would be great to have more folks to join into the holiday party fun and all that. Right now, I'm not sure if I'll have enough folks to do the Holiday Murder Mystery party this year!

It's also located right next to some of my favorite coffee shops and brunch places, so I can see myself catching a service and then heading over to one of those places to spend a peaceful Sunday morning/afternoon.

I'm working more and more towards connecting w/ folks I have something in common with. Case in point - The blogger meet up! Me, Carly, and Luis pictured below.
Safe to say, a great time was had by all and I certainly wouldn't mind running into any of them at the parks again someday soon. It felt like meeting old friends.

I'm seriously contemplating writing a book. Yup, that's right - a book. Not a poetry book (though God knows I have enough of those to fill SEVERAL books). Not a fantasy book (though, again, I've got enough material there to go for days). I'm thinking of co-writing a Disneyland Guide book. Crazy, I know, because there are already several out there, but this one will have a unique spin. Disney for Dieters. Yes, you can splurge on vacation, and still not fall completely off the weight-loss band wagon. It was actually an idea of MickeyMan, but it's a great idea none-the-less and I believe there is definately a market for such things. Afterall, I've been to Disneyland several times and managed to treat myself w/o coming back heavier than when I left! It'll be an interesting research project, so we'll see.
I may have found a reliable roommate that wouldn't mind living w/ me and Clydas. I'm still having trouble letting go of where I am now, however I see more and more how splitting the rent would help me be able to spend more time working towards my goals (acting, singing, traveling, writing) and waste less and less time in a feild that I apperciate, but don't particularly have an affection for. We'll see what comes of this as Sistah' Girl and I have been tossing around ideas to move out of state, but that would take saving up a significant amount of dough anyway, so we'll see!

So we'll see how things move along. It's so easy for me to lose focus with all I'm interested in, but I know that I'll just keep spinning my wheels until I'm willing to accept me for who I am and make the changes necessary to "keep moving forward."

Happy fall, ya'll!

Need Room: Have Boxer

So it's not much of a secret that I've been looking to move for a while, and I've been having trouble finding a place. Most of it is because I refuse to give up my dog.

I have a message to whoever put "Boxers" on the "Aggressive Breed" list:
HAVE YOU EVER EVEN MET A BOXER?!

These are the dogs people often get because they appear intimidating, but their lovable nature usually ruins that illusion pretty quickly. Boxers are naturally really goofy, and while they may play rough, I've never heard of one attacking anyone (unless that dog was abused, but that can happen with all breeds).

Anyway, so Clydas and I are having trouble finding a new home, so we've been staying put for a while now. Financially, that's not really helping, so I have my resume out with several head hunters, and I have a couple of options. I definately need to give this acting thing a decent shot, so heading toward a theater mecca would be great for me. I'm trusting God's guidance here to put me where I'm needed. Closer to Disneyland would rock too, of course. We'll see what happens!

But as far as my dog being "aggressive", I'm proud to report that he isn't a submissive pee-er, has NEVER ruined (or even damaged) any property I've lived at, and is great with kids.

So I'd like to send a big fat rasberry to the idiot who decided that he is dangerous just because of his muscular build (or some negative experience they had as a child).