Not much to say chat 1-16-14

I'm just back from a shopping expedition for shoes.  I went to DSW and found two pairs, on sale.  

Beautiful weather here.  I think I'll walk around the park at lunch with Gabby.  

Shoe shopping can feel like an "expedition," can't it?  Especially when you're trying to find something very specific.  I love DSW shoes -- such a great selection compared to the average department store. Unfortunately, the nearest one for me is about 50 miles away, so I don't go often.

Nothing close to beautiful weather here.   Thick fog (I could only see about 3-4 houses ahead on our street as I drove out of the neighborhood this morning).  It always amazes me how many people drive without headlights on in this kind of weather.  Nuts!

I keep looking at the calendar, noting how few days are left in the month and how many more things I need to complete at work.  I got a good start on one project yesterday, but as is the case every year, I'm having trouble motivating myself to stick to it.  I wonder what it feels like to be excited (or at least mildly eager) about doing your job each day?  It's not something I can relate to (other than the pleasure of a paycheck)!  

I'm at work, in the office today. Weather not too bad here in the Northeast not as warm as I'd like but I'll take it. Shoe shopping sounds fun you can never have too many shoes. I'm looking forward to this weekend going to visit some friends I haven't seen in a few months. What are your plans for the weekend everyone?

I'm not much of a shopper. I do like shoes though not anything girly. One pair I found is a little dressy, which means it has a bit of a heel. :) They didn't have it in my size, in black. They said they'd order it, ship for free and if I want to return, they'll take them back at the store. Can't beat that. :) I don't shop at DSW often either because of locations but this one is fairly new and not too far from my office. Ok, I better get back to work. I've got a payroll report calling my name.

Weekend plans . . . Saturday night we're going to try a new (for us) restaurant in Portland.  We're going with another couple as a joint birthday celebration for 3 of us, including one who is turning 40 next week (thus the excuse to go to a "fancy" place!).  

Sunday will be spent watching football games.  We'll be rooting for the Patriots, although I admit I'm a bit worried about how they'll do against Denver.  For the NFC game, DH will be rooting for Seattle because he hates the 49ers.  By default, I'll be rooting for Seattle, too.

Buddy's remains are home...

Hugs to you, Tina.  I hope it gives you some comfort to have Buddy at home again.

I remember how I felt the day we brought Tonka's remains home.  While it made me cry and cry to see that all we had left of our giant boy was this small tin, I was glad he was back with us again.  I kept that tin on my nightstand for a long time.  Eventually, our friend, who is an amazing woodworker, made us a cherrywood box for his remains.  It's gorgeous -- with design touches that remind us of Tonka (including a little tray to store his ID tags, and the tray has a capital "T" for a handle).  It's one of the few things I'd grab if I had to evacuate our house in an emergency.

Sorry Tina, I cried when I got my Rotties too. Hard to see a small box knowing the majestic dog that was. But find comfort in knowing that you gave Buddy a good life. That helps me.

(((Tina)))

Awww, I'm sorry Tina.  It doesn't ever get any easier, no matter how many times we go through it, does it?

I think we won yesterday.  PITA demanded mediation, but wanted to be alone with the old coot, who is a soft touch.  He refused because she wouldn't allow me or the biz manager in the room.  Then she tried to use that as an excuse for being unprepared and not bringing her "witnesses".  She blew, as I suspected she would, with a personal attack on me.  Ya'll would have been proud of me....I didn't react or respond, just let her spew her  venom.  When I was asked to speak I was calm, forthright and careful to explain things the judge might not understand, such as tear sheets. Did I mention that I didn't loose my temper? Hope the formal "verdict" arrives soon!

Woke up to a little snow today.  Not much, just enough to be messy.  Luckily I wasn't working far from home today so I didn't have to drive on cruddy roads.  Can't complain since we've really had a pretty nice week.

Finally managed to get a few spare minutes to come on here, been very busy with exams, revision and dogs.

Just trying to catch up with everything on here.

Weather is still raining and cold, but not as cold as some of you have been experiencing, we have  not got into the negative numbers yet

Nice to see you,BP. :)

Hated to see the story about the fires in CA.  :(