Itty Bitty Nellie Bly

He Makes Me Happy

2006-09-26T23:45:00.000-05:00

by kayleecrockett<

Epiphany

2006-06-20T23:35:00.000-05:00

I realized today that my being upset over Andrew really wasn't about Andrew. I took full stock of all the elements of our relationship and decided--- "Nah."It's been a week since Tony dropped what I'll refer to as the "E-bomb" on me at Alfa's. I know now that my reaction was just a culmination of an already-stressful week. I was mad that Tony was being such an asshole, first of all. Second, it

I'm not that girl

2006-06-15T01:01:00.000-05:00

Andrew is getting married. Andrew, the guy who never wanted anything other than for me to love him back the way he loved me. The only one from my past who matters.I ran into his best friend, Tony, at Alfa's tonight and he broke the story. Shocked does not begin to cover it! We've been broken up eight months-- how did he have time to fall in love and decide he wants to spend the rest of his life

Quite a sabbatical

2006-06-09T07:05:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted since early April, mostly because I was getting more than frustrated with Blogger. I would begin a post, only to find that there was no way to form a paragraph. Even now, I cringe a little at the notion that this may still happen, and I have no idea how to modify that setting so it stops happening. Nope, still happens! I don't want my posts to be one amorphous blob, so I'm just

Bye, Bye, Love

2006-04-05T19:59:00.000-05:00

I broke up with Michael. It's been a rough week, because he didn't take it well. He was essentially a good person, but his reactions only solified in my mind that my decision was correct.

Love hurts

2006-03-27T02:55:00.000-06:00

I broke up with Michael tonight.It was an hour and a half of us fighting-- not pretty.Michael is someone I respect a lot and he would be a great friend-- but I don't want to date him. And I don't think we'll be friends... a clean break is best.I deleted him from myspace and took the pictures I had of us in my profile out. I deleted his two friends that added me after I met them on his birthday. I

Briefly....

2006-03-22T04:23:00.000-06:00

I know, I know....... I haven't wanted to write. But I've been thinking a lot.My trip to Minnesota was magical. I learned some life-changing things and had an incredibly validating reception from the hosptial staff who remembered us. I'll blog more about it later.St. Patricks' Day was monumentially fun. Kaylee and I had the most fun I think we've had since she came to visit me in Freeport last

A big week looms

2006-03-13T00:47:00.000-06:00

I haven't been sleeping well. I've got a big week and am nervous about what I may encounter.I'm going on a roadtrip to Minneapolis, Minn., where I had my liver transplant 20 years ago. I haven't been there since 1985. I'm in good health, but we're going since I have all this free time and don't have to take off work. I'm going to have an MRI and an ultrasound just to have a check-up on "Miss

My ideal career: revealed!

2006-03-07T22:46:00.000-06:00

Your Career Type: SocialYou are helpful, friendly, and trustworthy.Your talents lie in teaching, nursing, giving information, and solving social problems.You would make an excellent:Counselor - Dental Hygienist - LibrarianNurse - Parole Officer - Personal TrainerPhysical Therapist - Social Worker - TeacherThe worst career options for your are realistic careers, like truck driver or farmer.What's"

I am HEEEEEEEEEEE-Man!!!!

2006-03-01T21:22:00.000-06:00

You are He-Man from Masters of the Universe! Youtake life very seriously, and you should,considering you are the keeper of all that isgood and right in the universe! However, yournonstop suspicion of Skeletor and hishenchman can start your friends wondering whyyou don't loosen up once in awhile.Which Forgotten 80s Cartoon Character Are You?brought to you by

The Most Expensive La Bamba's Ever

2006-02-26T23:32:00.000-06:00

Q: "How much does La Bamba's cost at 2 a.m?"A: $125This is a delightful inside joke that Michael made last night, after we had quite an adventure after celebrating his golden (25th!) birthday. I had a major jones for two tacos, a quesadilla and some beans, and he gallantly took me to the location on N. Halsted. We were in there for MAYBE 10 minutes-- and returned to find that my car was.....

A Valentine for Amee

2006-02-15T04:29:00.000-06:00

For the first time, I had a Valentine this year: and as of today, I also have a boyfriend! Michael is gorgeous, adorable, doting, straightforward, and masculine simultaneously. He brought me ORANGE roses, a heart-shaped box of chocolates, an orange Tootsie Pop, and even drove me 45 minutes to Peoria so I could have lunch at La Bamba's! We've probably been nauseating everyone with all our myspace

Mad about you (Michael!)

2006-02-15T00:53:00.000-06:00

I have a valentine! For the first time. I have orange roses, a heart-shaped box of chocolate, an orange Tootsie Pop, and an adorable boyfriend. We made it official today.... and I can't stop smiling.

Finally (it happened to me!)

2006-02-10T00:59:00.000-06:00

Three dates!Michael and I had three excellent (consecutive!) dates this weekend while I was in Chicago. He picked me up at one train station and gave me a ride to another so I could get home. He paid $10 to park his car for barely more than an hour, just to spend time with me while I waited for my train. Wow.We ate dinner at Miller's Pub and then went ice skating in Millenium Park. Neither of us

A DaaaAAattee!

2006-01-30T12:09:00.000-06:00

I have something surprising to report:I may be on the horizion of a relationship. Whoa.For the past two months, I've been getting to know a fantastic fellow, Michael. We have planned our first date for this upcoming Saturday, and I can hardly wait! Our plan is to go ice skating in Millennium Park.That's right folks-- he's a Chicago man. Damn straight! That's the only reason it's taking so long

J-town in Playboy!

2006-01-19T12:47:00.000-06:00

Our own Adrianne Curry is the cover of PLAYBOY in Februrary!! I saw it in the Trib yesterday-- she'll be signing copies in Chicago. Whoa.I hear she lashes out at Tyra Banks and talks about her kinky sexy life with Peter Brady.I've never purchased a Playboy, but I can't resist. I saw one of her ads up on the wall at Senor Tequila's around Christmas, and her bro, Nick. I didn't approach him, just

Spank me, Santa!

2006-01-09T17:31:00.000-06:00

You Were Naughty This YearYou Were 70% Naughty, 30% NiceYou may not have been good this year...But you sure had a really good time.And nothing from Santa could top that!How Naughty (Or Nice) Were You This Year?

Have Mercy, Uncle Jesse!

2006-01-09T17:05:00.000-06:00

Your 80s Heartthrob IsJohn StamosWho's" Your 80's Heartthrob?

Fix it in '06

2006-01-07T16:45:00.000-06:00

That's what I'm going to do this year: fix things.It's been a lot of drama for the past two months with my friends, and ex. Andrew and I finally exchanged stuff, on Dec. 30. I've never been more hurt by him than the cavalier way he's acted about exchanging stuff since we broke up. I don't need that. He clearly is not my friend. I still have his "All-American Rejects," CD, but he can just buy

Holly Jolly Christmas

2005-12-28T11:56:00.000-06:00

Come Friday, "the holidays" will be over! Finally. Until V-Day, that is, when I hope to take in a performance of the Vagina Monologues locally.It was bittersweet. Christy's wedding culminated in a couple different kinds of drama, between the Weds night bachelorette party at Double J's and a "discussion" I had post-wedding, at Grapevine.I learned that I don't put up with bullshit-- this week, I

Baby, it's cold outside!

2005-12-13T11:37:00.000-06:00

I love the Burg!I've been playing in the snow with Bill, having dinner with my friends, and last night I had a date! Daniel. A LOCAL composer-- what are the odds? He took me to a hotel bar, a first for me!I'm sad to say that Hawthorne, too, has gone to the Great Lily Pad in the Sky. I'm going to wait (at least try) before I buy another pet. I don't know if I want more Fire Bellies or maybe this

Late night ruminations

2005-12-11T04:15:00.000-06:00

I post I have not written at 4 a.m.since the days of yore I spent in Siam.Okay, that's total bullshit. But I felt like rhyming.I can't sleep... it's been a very odd week. okay-- NO MORE RHYMING.I hosted my first party this weekend--- a small one. But it's a good start. I had my place cleaned up and friends congregated for some laughs. It was good times. Tessa, Chris, and Kevin and his wife,

No other way

2005-12-04T12:49:00.000-06:00

You are RENT. You take on AIDS through a rock-operaatmosphere. You are somehow able to be chocfull of glamor and gritty reality at the sametime. You are very entertaining, but you alsoteach a poignant message at the same time.Your songs include "Seasons of Love,""La Vie Boheme," and "What YouOwn."What Broadway Musical Are You?brought to you by

To passion, when it's new!

2005-11-28T12:23:00.000-06:00

525,600--- that's how many times I plan on seeing "RENT" the movie!So far, I've made it twice! I went Weds night with Chris, a co-worker, and again on Friday night with Kaylee! It couldn't have been more satisfying to experience it with the woman who showed me that I was a RENThead! She cried, and I squealed. Everytime I saw Anthony Rapp (Mark) and Jesse L. Martin (Collins) I lost it! And

Racing the Clock!

2005-11-14T18:00:00.000-06:00

Nine minutes to post! That's what happens when you have no Internet at home. Library time.This weekend I FINALLY caught up on some DESPERATELY needed sleep! I'd been functioning on five hours sleep for the last two weeks. My first two weeks at work have kicked my ass, but in a good way. I'm glad to be back in journalism.I've gotten complements from editors on a couple of my stories. Yay! I've

Update on life in "The Burg"

2005-11-09T16:11:00.000-06:00

My birthday was a spanking success! About 25 of my best friends were all there to witness my birthday. It was such a joy to see all the reunions, all the drunkenness, all the laughing and debauchery. And the hookups!We all danced and did shots and took pictures and created a shitload of memories.Several of my friends are all flirting and love connections are blooming-- I love it! And we all went

Dude, I'm a Quarter Century

2005-11-04T12:06:00.000-06:00

I'm 25 today--- yay!That's all I have time to blog, I'm on my lunch break. Work is awesome-- kicking my ass, but awewome. I can't wait to come home Saturday and get WAZ-asted with all my J-town/Chi-town and surrounding articulate chums.I'm going to be looking scandalous--- watch for the boa and I'll see ya'll at Grapevine tomorrow!Mmmwa!Love,Da Birthday Girl

I was a Twentysomething Packrat!

2005-10-22T22:03:00.000-05:00

It's Saturday night, and I'm not even close to done packing!I spent most of the week doing the kitchen-- that took 13 boxes. Yes, THIRTEEN. And I have a small kitchen!I have more crap than any almost 25-year-old has any RIGHT to have! It honestly makes me just want to throw all my stuff away or have a bonfire with it, and become a dedicated minimalist. Just so I won't have to sort and pack it

All my people wanting more

2005-10-17T17:59:00.000-05:00

I never could have predicted I'd title a post with a Britney Spears' lyric, but the day has arrived.Today has been a completely newsworthy day!!!I found out that my official start date for The Register-Mail and also approved for the apartment I want! I passed both my drug test for work and the credit check for my new landlord, Dianna.I have a job AND a home!! Yay! My editor called me to tell me

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2005-10-15T01:01:00.000-05:00

(Top Gun victory theme music playing)I did it. I got my career back! I'm soon to be the newest "edition" to The Register-Mail newsroom, as a general assignment reporter.I've been out of journalism for a month, and I can't wait to get back into it. Bring it!I've officially been offered and accepted a position there. I've been to Galesburg with my Dad to scout apartments, and now am in the process

Just Like The Old Days!

2005-10-05T03:29:00.000-05:00

Today is a big day! I would be better rested, if not as prepared, if I was unconscious right now.But I wasn't in the mood to do this important stuff earlier. I was in the mood to simply MARVEL at my new hearing aids-- and how I'm excited about hearing-aids for the FIRST TIME in my life. Today, I walked out of Dr. Weldele's office with the closest feeling to being on serious mind-altering drugs I

Brown-eyed Girl!

2005-10-02T08:38:00.000-05:00

You chose brown eyes.Brown eyed people are normally very romantic. Youlove to daydream, and sometimes you getconfused with your own fantasies over reality.You are pretty outgoing, but some days, all youwant to be, is alone, reading, or thinking byyourself. You have many talants, and you willprobably have a very important job when you'reolder.The Eye color personality testbrought to you by

Could You Repeat That? I'm Kinda Deaf!

2005-10-02T08:09:00.000-05:00

WOW-- could this quiz BE any more accurate? I think it's hilarious I got this answer. Sound definitely has been the most important sense for me-- or at least, absence of sound has. :)Sound. You are most connected to your sense ofhearing. You pay attention to coincedences inlife, which will come in handy in the future.You probably love listening to music on theradio, on your IPod, or on Launch...

Why Didn't I Think of This?! HOT!

2005-10-02T07:50:00.000-05:00

You Are A....Gothic Ballerina!-dark-beautiful-kindWhat's Your Halloween Costume? .:with pics:.brought to you by

Let's get Dirrty!

2005-10-02T07:45:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite soul singers--- and much superior to Bitchney and K.Fed!Your sassy Xtina! You do what you want to do whenyou want to do it how you want it done. Noquestions asked! Hehe..You probably like to bein control all the time.Which one of Christina Aguilera's personalities are you?brought to you by

Since I been gone

2005-10-01T21:47:00.000-05:00

I've been robbed! It might look like it, but the reason I have my personal belongings littering the floorplan of my abode is simply that I'm organizing.Throwing stuff OUT! I chose to have a quiet weekend alone, going through my stuff, doing laundry and putting clothes away, and taking inventory of what I don't need/want/use anymore.Gratifying, that's what it is. Damn. I've worked hard today. I'm

What (INXS) Needs!

2005-09-20T23:28:00.000-05:00

J.D. (and INXS!) got what they wanted tonight! I finally picked a winner! I am buying the new album and also the first INXS ticket that comes to Chicago. I'm going to be watching obsessively for tour dates.

I Need You (to win) Tonight

2005-09-20T00:17:00.000-05:00

I've been riveted by J.D. since I saw him perform that signature INXS song on "Rock Star," --- he connects to that primal side of me. He makes me growl. He's the hottest performer (and voice) I've seen since Chris Cornell-- and definitely the best looking potential front man since Michael Hutchence himself.He just goes for it, and he's full of surprises. He's got the talent, the strategy, and

Piece of My Heart

2005-09-19T03:23:00.000-05:00

"Take it! Take another little piece of my heart, now, baby..."I identify with this Janis song more than ever today. I've made a crucial decision--- I gave Andrew the url to my blog. He's begun reading this, and he is free to read the archives.I don't know if this was a courageous thing, or a mistake. All I can do now is hope.Wow. Talk about a leap of faith. I got back to my apartment tonight

Finding my Journalicious Mojo again

2005-09-12T23:58:00.000-05:00

I am looking for another newspaper job... I no longer am employed as a reporter. That's why I haven't posted since Wednesday--- I had to go home and think about what the next step should be in my life. Basically, my position was eliminated during some newsroom restructuring.It sucks to have to face the uncertainty of my future, and to even think about MOVING again-- packing up and then UN-packing

Hocus Pocus

2005-09-07T12:08:00.000-05:00

Fifty-five days till Halloween!I was racking my brain for costume ideas, when it occurred to me: I'll cast my spell as Elphaba! It won't be a sexy costume, as she is a notoriously modest dresser, and the most skin you see in the show is her arms! It will be difficult, but if I start scouring vintage shops now, I might be able to find a few random pieces that have a reasonable verisimilitude to

More wacky celeb baby names!

2005-09-06T11:56:00.000-05:00

The first post was so much fun, I have to list some more! This list is more inclusive, not just limited to utterly ridiculous, but also listing merely unconventional, typically dorky, or old-fashioned names as well.I'm following an easy format: unconventional baby name, and at least one celebrity parent:Dexter, a GIRL -- Diane Keaton (I dig it.)Elijah Bob Patricus Guggi Q-- Bono (Shan, I'm

Whoa

2005-09-05T23:36:00.000-05:00

I caught myself being happy. It's nice.

The journalism fire is stoked

2005-09-05T08:56:00.000-05:00

I clocked in at 5:10 a.m. today. And here I am, wide awake at 9 a.m. No coffee. I don't need it. I've got something better-- the adrenaline of a real story.Today I covered the departure of 13 local firefighters leaving to go help with Katrina. They were assembled at a Freeport fire station, along with their wives, fiancees, girlfriends. I saw men hugging eachother, I saw a little girl keeping

Where was God?

2005-09-04T17:26:00.000-05:00

Today, I called local churches to find out what they're doing to help for Katrina.I can't get my mind around it.I did hear back from Jenny today-- she's safe in Arkansas, but terrified. She has no idea about the condition of her home, she has no clothes with her-- her best friend, whose name is actually Katrina, is sending her some clothes. Jenny is still a college student and has no idea when or

Plug for a Journalicious fan and fellow blogger

2005-09-03T19:28:00.000-05:00

A man who hails from the Freeport area was cool enough to e-mail me after visiting Journalicious today, and I want to thank him by promoting his awesome blog.Justice E.R., it's called, and it's essential reading to stay informed. Especially for us damn liberals. :) Hee. Shan, you'll eat this up-- go check it out.http://justiceerroom.blogspot.comI like the way he thinks.

Productive Day!

2005-09-03T15:05:00.000-05:00

In other news, the time home this week was very productive. And boy, I spent a lot of money.When I called the parents last night to check in after getting safely home, Diane said she enjoyed meeting my "family," and that they "certainly are colorful."I had so much pride, showing off the boys to anyone I could. I brought them over to Kaylee's, and she and her mom were agog at their incredible

Katrina on my mind

2005-09-03T12:28:00.000-05:00

For the first time in eight months, I heard from my friend Brad on Thursday night. He moved to New Orleans a few weeks before I moved to Freeport, and I called asking him to let me know he was OK.He called when Andrew and I were at the Jackhammers game, and I didn't hear my phone ring. He left me a detailed voicemail saying that while he got out in time, his house is under 10 feet of water, and

Punky's gotten a bit too funky, even for me.

2005-08-31T14:45:00.000-05:00

Soleil Moon Frye, aka Punky Brewster that we all grew up with, just bestowed her baby with the weirdest (quasi-) celebrity baby name yet.Wierder than Apple Martin, wierder than Hazel and Phinneus Moderer.Her baby is born unto the laughable name Poet Sienna Rose.I mean, COME ON. I AM a poet, and that makes ME cringe! I don't even like to call myself a "poet." I loathe the word "poetry," actually.

Come to Butthead

2005-08-29T01:30:00.000-05:00

I just watched the VMA's, and it painfully highlighted now nostalgic I am for Beavis and Butthead, the most entertaining men in my life from age 13- 17. I watched those two dumbasses religiously!They presented the People's Choice Award, and each segment was hilarious!!! They kept urging viewers to vote to bring THEM back to MTV. I was devastated to realize at the end that it was a cruel hoax---

The times, they are a'changin'

2005-08-28T13:35:00.000-05:00

Another milestone in my career: my days off have been changed.Pam just told me today that since Eric and I have both been working Saturday and Sunday, from now on, we're going to split the weekend in half. This will give us both some relief. This means we won't be working together at all on weekends, which kinda sucks since it was nice to have company. It was kind of nice having a second person

Me and my boys

2005-08-27T12:45:00.000-05:00

I've got two new boys in my life!Edgar and Hawthorne. I bought them last night at a local pet store: they're fire belly toads!Their full names are Edgar Allan Frog and Hawthorne Hop-frog , after my two favorite American authors. The first name is mostly obvious, but also a tribute to the "Frog brothers," in "The Lost Boys," and of course, the latter is for Nathaniel Hawthorne, my all-time

Saved by Swiffer!

2005-08-24T10:58:00.000-05:00

Amazing. Only six hours of sleep, and I'm functioning at work. Haven't even had my coffee, and I'm fine. yet. God bless youth!I had a cleaning blitzkrieg last night! Once I got started, I couldn't stop. There was also A LOT to do. I bought all kinds of stuff at Wal-Mart that I don't really need, but they are all functional: cleaning supplies and a some nifty miscellaneous stuff. I found out that

Scrubbing day is a holiday (a nod to Pippi!)

2005-08-23T15:28:00.000-05:00

I'm busy preparing for Andrew's visit tomorrow!I told him I wouldn't let him visit until my abode is up to code, promised him I'd do it by the time he gets here tomorrow night. I'm going to do it if it kills me!I know he won't judge me, and that he already knows about my domestically-challenged habits. Everyone does. But I'M tired of living this way, and this is what I consider my first "Real"

There must be some kinda way outta here

2005-08-21T19:16:00.000-05:00

Four more years.As if that phrase wasn't terrifying enough during the 2004 election, when we were bombarded with it for Bush's campaign.According to an AP military writer's article written Saturday, the Army is planning to stay in Iraq for FOUR MORE YEARS.I'm sad that my 20's will be shadowed by this man's decisions.

Good Ol' Boys

2005-08-21T12:23:00.000-05:00

Last night, I finally got a chance to become "one of the boys" at work.About midnight, I went out with Bill, Drew, Alex and Ethan and his gf. Eric was too tired, and I don't know where Todd or Robert was. But I was happy to be included, since I've been deathly bored here.I met them at work and followed Bill out to his apartment, since they all live close to eachother. Bill and I followed them in

My boyfriend's back!

2005-08-20T04:24:00.000-05:00

Andrew and I are official! I have a boyfriend!!!I say in the headline that he's "back," because he's never been gone. Since we broke up last October, I've missed him every day. And anyone I've gotten involved with, or tried to, since then-- I've only been trying to replicate the way Andrew made me feel. But now I know that there's only one Andrew--- and he's good for me.In the 4.5 years we've

I'VE got the beat!

2005-08-17T10:08:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, something incredible happened at work: Gary gave me a BEAT! After 8 months! I was actually going to talk to him about it, and ask for one... and then he reads my mind. I honestly wanted to HUG him!He gave me an assignment and said that they're going to start giving me more things like it, to kind of get a beat together for me.I'll be covering Jo Daviess County, which is a neighboring

The Only Thing that Looks Good on Me (is You)

2005-08-15T10:51:00.000-05:00

Steve-o is copying all of Angelina's tattoos, all 11 of them--- even the (now removed) Billy Bob.What a loser! He said "It can't hurt my chances," and thinks this will give him some sort of advantage and a leg-up on a dating her.As if she isn't already smitten with Brad Pitt--- who he could never begin to compete with! Talk about trying to date someone OUT OF YOUR LEAGUE!I know I sound like a

Another Chicago adventure

2005-08-13T14:14:00.000-05:00

So, Wicked was amazing. It completely surprised me to realize how DRAMATIC it was. Although completely departed from the book, the changes were powerful in their own right.Veronica actually CRIED. After "Defying Gravity" closed the first act, she said, "That was really powerful."We both said, "Wow," and "Oh my god," at the end-- at the same time. lol. At the encore, I was yelling, "Ana!!!!" so

We Deserve Eachother

2005-08-12T23:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was such an adventure!!Between my reunion with Andrew and going to see WICKED, I couldn't have had a more fun day!Andrew actually came and PICKED ME UP yesterday-- I couldn't believe it! Here I am, trying to prove myself to him--- and he's already offering to come get me. What a gentleman. He had on a pastel blue sweater--- he looked fantastic! He really liked my hair, and walked over

Antici..... pation!

2005-08-10T19:39:00.000-05:00

I'm exhausted. I got two hours of sleep this morning. Too much on my mind, with work, friends and new reconciliations churning my inner-dialouge.But tomorrow is going to ROCK. I'm going to see the hottest new musical since RENT tomorrow, with Veronica, one of the most fun people I could imagine going with. She said she bought a new green mini dress, and we're both wearing green and getting

This Woman is my new Hero

2005-08-09T18:07:00.000-05:00

When I grow up, I want to be like Cindy Sheehan, a 48-year-old mother whose son, Casey, died in Iraq last year.She is currently camped out in Crawford, Texas, where Bush is on a five-week vacation. She plans to hold the "lying bastard" accountable for the the war and promises she has the entire month off and won't leave until he, not any of his henchmen, speaks with her personally about why her

Calm after the storm

2005-08-09T11:05:00.000-05:00

Last night, I gave in. I couldn't wait anymore--- I called Andrew.Christy called last night, and the conversation we had couldn't have shocked me more. Last summer, she was livid when I waffled about Andrew and was dissapointed in me for not committing to him. I expected her to tell me to leave him alone, to accept I made a mistake and move on.But she didn't. Instead, she said, "I've never seen

From the Management

2005-08-07T21:10:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, I don't know how to ban IP addresses or erase comments. If anyone else does, please, hook me up. Until then, I am changing the format so that only registered Blogger users can comment, since I don't want anyone else sneaking free ads into my blog.So until then, if you'r not a registered user, just e-mail me comments. I can always post them.

Watch out for those Pink Geeks!

2005-08-07T19:23:00.000-05:00

Since there's been so much debate about men in pink, I thought I'd post this as a sort of rebuttal, from the standpoint of the guilty. Just a reminder fellas, the geeks in the pink can be smarter than you think. Not just a standing target for an ass-whoopin', he might be your competition! A few excerpts from "Geek In The Pink" by Jason Mraz: "I don't care what you might think about meYou can vibe

Whatta a Man ( I took for granted)

2005-08-06T14:16:00.000-05:00

Something posessed me to buy "The Emancipation of Mimi," last week -- I know, spare me-- and I've been listening to one track non-stop: "We Belong Together."The shocking thing is, whenever I heard songs like that, or caught the Rachel and Ross saga on TV, I always used to think of Dan. But Dan isn't the benchmark for a good boyfriend anymore -- Andrew is. Every guy I've met since we broke up,

It takes skill to write prose this bad!

2005-08-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

A little something for the word nerds among us, the Trib had this hilarious sidebar today about the winner of a prestigious BAD WRITING contest. The challenge is "to write the opening sentence to the worst of all possible novels."Rick Holinger submitted three entries, and here's the one that was printed:"Horatio Keelhaul sailed buoyantly up Cutter Street ironclad in his resolve to torpedo the

Studly in pink

2005-08-01T18:24:00.000-05:00

I am inspired today by the "Q" section coverstory in the Trib yesterday, all about how pink is becoming mainstream with men. This isn't necessarily news at this point, but I was glad to hear it nonetheless.I saw a pre-teen boy wearing a pink T-shirt a few months ago that said, "Real men wear pink," and I had to complement him. I wish more 24-year-old could have the confidence and wisdom of that

Wonderful feeling, wonderful day!

2005-07-27T10:19:00.000-05:00

I'm in a great mood this morning! I don't have any particular reason, but I wasn't rushed getting to work and I look cute today. I woke up early enough to take a little time getting ready and talk to my Dad a few minutes. I was actually well-rested!I have on my orange work pants (yes, they make them!), a bronze Express top, a scarf in my hair, and a touch of orange lipgloss. I have my bad-ass

Re-claiming my rights

2005-07-24T14:30:00.000-05:00

Survivor's Bill of Rights-- from the "Survivors Road2Healing" siteBy JoAnn Mecca1.I have the right to be free of guilt.2. I have the right to express my feelings and emotions, even if they do not seem acceptable, as long as they do not interfere with the rights of others.3. I have the right to have my questions answered honestly by authorities and family members.4. I have the right not to be

Not bad, not bad.

2005-07-24T13:32:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a great day. I wrote a good story, which Drew the copyeditor complemented me on. Even though it was about something tragic, the story itself was uplifting."I thought you handled that well," he said. All right!I also had some great phone conversations when I got home. I talked with Sue Ellen, Cabey, Joelle, and later, Catt. I watched part of "Notting Hill," and it put me in a sappy,

"This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.."

2005-07-23T13:13:00.000-05:00

It seems so appropriate that it's been a rainy day, about 67 degrees I just interviewed Lynn Hofmaster, a Freeport woman who is starting a local suicide support group. Her son, Cory, committed suicide in 2002, and she wants to help others.This couple has the best attitude that I've ever seen concerning suicide. They don't omit how he died--- they tell people. They're not ashamed, and they say

Hoo-ah, this is a shocker!

2005-07-21T18:00:00.000-05:00

And now, a digression from my morose post of earlier--- some superficial celebrity gossip.Just when I didn't think celebrity couples could get much wierder than the two "Surreal Life" unions, or TomKat, I'm proved wrong by hyperbolic proportions.Now Al Pacino, the Godfather himself, is wooing ROSE MCGOWAN, one of my favorite actresses for years. They've gone on a dinner date. And somehow, it

Back at home

2005-07-21T10:40:00.000-05:00

I went to Wichita, and cried out of every pore.I'm back at work, and refreshed. I just saw Donna in the mailroom and she said she was sorry to hear about my loss, which I appreciated.I got enough sleep the last two nights, thankfully, because I was so worn out coming home on Tuesday I could barely drag my carry-on bag. The rosary service Monday night and the funeral and burial Tuesday morning

No place like home

2005-07-16T22:47:00.000-05:00

I'm flying home to Wichita on Monday from Midway, and coming back Tuesday. I may or may not get to blog much the next couple of days.... we'll see.I got a decent ticket price. I'm just glad that I can go.

Uncle Joe is waiting for you, Aunt Alice

2005-07-16T21:52:00.000-05:00

My Aunt Alice died this morning... at 7:15 a.m. She was my Dad's sister, the oldest of seven kids. She had dealt with colon and breast cancer, and towards the end, brain cancer. The funeral is in Wichita Monday night--- I want to go, but am not sure if I can find a flight cheap enough. What a rough couple of days... everything ending, so... finally.

No More D(an)rama

2005-07-16T01:29:00.000-05:00

Today, I was given closure. Thank god.

Not the Doctor (For Dan)

2005-07-15T16:34:00.000-05:00

Not the DoctorBy Alanis MorissetteI don’t want to be the filler if the void is solely yoursI don’t want to be your glass of single malt whiskeyHidden in the bottom drawerI don’t want to be the bandage if the wound is not mineLend me some fresh airI don’t want to be adored for what I merely represent to youI don’t want to be to be your babysitterYou’re a very big boy nowI don’t want to be you

This one's for you, Brian

2005-07-12T12:30:00.000-05:00

Although I eschew shows like "Fear Factor,""The Real World," "American Idol," "Survivor," "The Swan," and "The Bachelor," I DO love my Vh1, and some MTV.I like blind date shows, and I LOVE "Motormouth," and "Pimp My Ride,"--- I think my fantasy would be to have my ride pimped into an orange Ferrari and THEN find out I'm on Motor Mouth! And baby, you better believe I love "STRIP SEARCH! "Anyway, I

Let it go, let it go, let it go

2005-07-11T22:13:00.000-05:00

I just discovered today that I COMPLETELY misjudged someone. An old friend, one who I was best friends with until we had a rather ugly, seismic fight last winter.I said what I had to say when she contacted me, and she responded with flabbergasting CLASS, something that floored me. I don't think I've ever been more wrong about someone.I guess that I've just come to believe that people

"Amuck! Amuck, amuck, amuck..."

2005-07-11T11:37:00.000-05:00

"Open windows! OPEN WINDOWS!" Kaylee screamed. At circa 1:30 a.m. on Thursday night.Out of all the adventures we made in just two days in Freeport, the epic tale of Grilled Cheese No. 2 is probably the most memorable one-- and the best documented photographically.Kaylee should win a prize for her photo essay on the short and tragic life of Grilled Cheese No. 2., which you can see posted on her

Dang, Duane!

2005-07-05T12:20:00.000-05:00

I was surprised to see my personal trainer's likeness in a flag for a sports coverstory today, on the left-hand side of A-1.My personal trainer Duane, who asked me to dinner a few months ago, has been consistantly mysterious about his age. In trying to guess, I figured he was in his late '30s, early '40s, based on some info he told me about his lifting career and being a bouncer in the '80s.He's

Independent Woman

2005-07-05T00:13:00.000-05:00

I may be independant, but today was as lonely as it was fun. So far I've worked on Easter, Memorial Day, Father's Day, Mother's Day, and now Fourth of July. I'm the new kid, so I can expect to be working on Thanksgiving and Christmas, too.I've always ended up working on the 4th, but this is the first time I haven't had friends to meet up with or a party to go to afterward. The last two summers in

Independence Day !

2005-07-04T14:27:00.000-05:00

A few more fact trios today... I was too tired to finish them last night! Today I will go to the fireworks in Freeport and write a story about it... whoo. I'm wearing a red "Everyone loves and American girl," T-shirt from Old Navy, white shorts, and light blue (platform!) flip-flops, with patriotic make-up to match! I also brought in some bomb pops (although, they aren't as large as the originals

A trio of facts about myself

2005-07-04T02:43:00.000-05:00

Kay had this mini-survey in HER blog, in the format of threes. Since I'm addicted to surveys, I'm doing it too! Yay!THREE NAMES YOU GO BY:1. Eyebrow (Missie)2. Malevolent Chastity Sprite (Swelly!)3. Antonia (Joelle)and two bonus:4. Dude (Kay!)5. Little Amee-- most of Joliet.THREE SCREEN NAMES YOU HAVE HAD:1. Amee152. Versequeen-- stupid AOL hackers kept stealing my passowrd and spamming porn with

Give me your tots!

2005-07-03T14:30:00.000-05:00

Dang!So last night instead of searching for Zac the Surfer, I stayed home and found out what the buzz is all about with "Napoleon Dynamite."Yes, I know--- a little late. But I was never interested in this movie--- I thought it looked retarded. But I had no idea of how hilarious those wierd preview scenes would be in context of a whole movie! I'm so converted!The one thing that helped me embrace

(Truly!) Defying Gravity!

2005-07-02T20:37:00.000-05:00

Today was the most fun I think I've ever at had at work in Freeport!I covered the FHN Good Old Summertime Day in the Park, a plethora of family activities, food, and entertainment-- as always in beautiful Krape Park.I saw a gorgeous man with shoulder length, tightly curled brown hair, and even found an excuse to chat him up. (Sometimes my job comes in handy!) I found out that his name is Zac and

All you need is music

2005-07-02T17:18:00.000-05:00

I work in an office where everyone will just stop what they're doing to appreciate watching Pink Floyd playing on "Live 8." Even the normally all-business features editor, Sharon, who was probably a teenager when Pink was hot. She looks tranquil, silently nodding her head to the rhythm, a smile's ghost on her face.I love that.

Home sweet Joliet

2005-07-02T12:02:00.000-05:00

I was reminded this "weekend" that as much as I love making new friends, it seems I always have the most fun chilling with the ones I've grown up with.I went out (FINALLY!) with Catt on Thursday-- we went shopping and then out to the bars later. But first we ate, and had a ROGER POWELL, JR. sighting at T.G.I. Friday's!She was friends with him in high school, and he came over to say "Hi" to her--

Ruminations

2005-06-28T17:31:00.000-05:00

I slept fantastic last night! Funny, I realized two nights ago that the twin bed in my guest room is somehow much more sleepable than the queen in my own bedroom. So last night, I plugged an old alarm clock in (it's got a tape deck!) and drifted off to sleep, BEFORE MIDNIGHT!Maybe it's because the room is in a different position, is quiet, and is a change of scenery... but it worked. Tonight, I'm

Journalicious Happening!

2005-06-27T12:12:00.000-05:00

I just was going through my planner and found something I'd forgotten about: a check!But the great thing is how I EARNED the check! It's LOOOONG overdue, but I don't mind!It's a check for $50 for the FIRST column I ever wrote, when I was a DEN staffer at Eastern. It's been included in a freshman composition reader, "Simon & Schuster Short Prose Reader," put together by four Eastern profs. They

Vainglorious post about my new funky hair!

2005-06-27T10:38:00.000-05:00

"Wow, did you go on one of those make-over shows?"That was Kevin's astonished quandry upon spying my new coiff this morning at work. Ha! He's the photo editor, soon departing for a position at a paper closer to his home in Iowa.That's definitely the first time I've been asked THAT! I guess it implies I look quite radically changed-- for good! What a nice complement!I STILL don't have a press pass

Make new friends, but keep the old....

2005-06-26T23:34:00.000-05:00

... one is silver, and the other's gold.I just had my first phone conversation with Kaylee in a year. Wow, what relief!I found out she had a blog, www.kayleecrockett.blogspot.com, then peeked at it and realized I missed her. It was obvious that she has been through a lot in the past year, and that we have both done a lot of growing up. That we are both much more independant, together, women. And

Summer Funk!

2005-06-25T14:17:00.000-05:00

"Cool hair!"Yay! Ron, one of my co-workers from up front (the business side of the paper) said this as he passed by my desk a few minutes ago.Cool, indeed. I don't know what it is about chopping off my follicles in summertime, but it just makes me feel like such a free spirit, so uncluttered. Chicks with short hair are just spunkier, I think. And it looks great with dangly earrings and hoops! My

God is watching over me for sure

2005-06-23T23:46:00.000-05:00

How can I not believe in God? My very life is a miracle.I just allowed myself to be nostalgic, watching two videotapes of news footage covering the liver transplant of my sister, Julie. Back then, in 1983, it was national news b/c we were one of the few lucky ones. It's such a gift that I can watch these, that we have this footage on tape.The last time I watched these tapes was probably at least

Time capsule

2005-06-23T16:10:00.000-05:00

So I thought my hair appointment was today... but it's actually TOMORROW at 2:30. Sigh!I scrounged for some good photos of what I want my haircut to look like, since I'm shooting to recreate the awesome look I had my junior year of college. But I can't find the photo album with those pictures in it, so I'll manage with a few random ones that are similar.Me and Eric K. in high school, my senior

2005-06-23T00:30:00.000-05:00

I'm getting my hair cut!!! I'm getting it short like I had it my junior year of college, with red and butterscotch highlights. For some reason, changing my hair rejuvenates me AND also skyrockets my confidence. I think it definitely enhances my mojo. :)

TomKat rant

2005-06-21T18:48:00.000-05:00

I just read a column and I feel like responding to it. I know I talk too much about Angelina (or now, "Brangelina", and how much I loathe Britney and Paris, but this is my blog. And I can talk about celebrity gossip if I want to! Ha!Tom Cruise has the been the epitome of a "movie star" for my entire lifetime. Especially the last 10 years.And now? He's ENGAGED to a girl 16 years younger,

Jailhouse write (to the tune of Jailhouse Rock)

2005-06-21T13:09:00.000-05:00

"As I sit here in my cell in the Dixon Correctional Center..."That was the intro of a letter I received today on yellow legal pad paper, from a man named William with distinctly feminine penmanship. Dated June 20. I'm not listing his last name for OBVIOUS reasons.Wow. I'm getting mail from a convict! The envelope has a red stamp on it saying, "This Correspondence Is From An Inmate Of the Illinois