We're in a fight...

Blog no more....

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 02:27:00 +0000

I'm taking this opportunity to announce that I will no longer be blogging. Me and the blog had some good times...but then we drifted apart. It happens sometimes in relationships....things are going well...you write about Britney Spears and run fantasy leagues for The Donald Trump show...maybe you even host a trivia game or 2. But then you stop communicating, Britney stops doing crazy jacked up stuff and yahoo! games discontinues the online game you hosted "The App-REESE-tice" with....it's sad really. What was once a beautiful relationship, the model of communication and stability...is now just a memory. You realize all along the whole thing was a sham because you don't talk anymore, you don't post. You'd rather "tweet" and play on facebook. Life is changing, for both of you...and it's time to cut ties.

Farewell, We're in a fight...you will be missed.

april fools!!!

(*please note: I'm currently looking to host a different blog on a different url. if you're a fan of the "we're in a fight," then i implore all 2 of you to remain patient and we will meet again!)

Sunshine...lollipops...and a Big Box of Awesome!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 04:05:00 +0000

I heard about a contest that a "not famous blogger" is sponsoring...and I got curious. Here's the premise...remember the "grab bags?" They were generally brown, paper bags with some mystery gift inside. Drewbie's gonna give away a grab BOX. A grab Box of Awesome!! When I heard this I immediately had memories of picking up the bags...weighing them...holding them...trying to see which one would have the best mystery prize. I ended up with more roach clips than you can imagine...I don't think the lady that was selling them knew what they were. We wore them in our hair like Mr. T...but that's a story for another day. Back to the Box of Awesome!! So, I said to myself..."self, you MUST know what's inside!! You can't wait to see who wins it and what will be revealed!! Go then, and seek your plentiful fortune!!" (I live alone and sometimes, after 2 nights of the intrusion alarm going off...at 2 am...waking you from a blissful necessary sleep...sometimes talking to yourself is ok. Don't judge me!!)

So, I took my own advice...and thanked goodness the gas prices are so low right now. I hopped in Diego and we took a road trip north. We saw several things, at very high speeds, because I had to get back here and write this post. I would have taken pictures...but seriously...I drove fast. So, using my excellent sleuthing skills, I tracked down the Legendary Box of Awesome.

My friends, it was amazing. You wouldn't believe the joy it will bring some lucky winner! Not kidding...you know how in Indiana Jones, when they open the Lost Ark...and it's all glowy...and then melts everyone's faces off? It was like that...sans the melting faces. Man, if that happened...Drewbie and I would be in a F. I. G. H. T. I spend way too much money on my makeup to not be able to use it! So anyway, (can you tell I haven't slept in almost 48 hours? A good Doctor I would not make) I opened the box and this is what I found...

CAN YOU STAND IT??? IT'S A COLLAPSIBLE FLYER!!! WITH A POUCH!!!! And that's only ONE of the fantastic treasures within the Legendary Box of Awesome!!!

I could barely contain my excitement, and I know you wouldn't have been able to either!! So as I was screeching with glee...I was confronted by two feline critters. They were all "what are you doing here?" And I was all "I'm looking in the box!! Do you mind?" And they were all "Uh, ya...we DO!! We're the Sacred Guardian's of the Legendary Box of Awesome and while we are stunned and jealous of your excellent sleuthing skills...we have mad cage fighting skills...mostly because we have claws. So lady, if you don't step off...we're gonna have to take you down." I concurred that they had the advantage...and the claws...come on people...we already talked about the makeup thing...it wouldn't have been alright with me. And I heard them exclaim...as Diego and I drove out of sight..."Yeah, you better run...recognize! Oh! And tell your friends to enter the contest to WIN the Box of Awesome at The Benspark...or else!"

Win a Bathtub Full of Cereal!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 04:51:00 +0000

It's magically delicious...AND it can help people!! Who doesn't love cereal? Who wouldn't love to win 52 boxes of their favorite morning-time goodness treat while a food bank ALSO receives fiddy-two boxes as well? Tis the season to share with those less fortunate and Ted (a man I met briefly in Orlando*** during Izeafest while chilling with Miss Eva) wants to do just that! If he gets 500 unique comments on his blog post he will randomly select someone to win a box of cereal a week for a year, and also match the donation to his local food bank. How can you resist? Seriously, he went all out and doused himself in cereal...he ain't messing around!

I'm going to Game 7!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 17:41:00 +0000

It is a beautiful, GLORIOUS day in Florida!! The sun is shining...I have all the windows open and no AC on...oh...yeah...and I'M GOING TO GAME 7 TONIGHT!!!!!!

On Friday, we were closing my store and the cashier called me.

Her: Hey, umm...you want to see a Red Sox World Series ring?
Me: YES!! (click)

So I go/run/skip up to the front and there's a couple there. The long and the short of it is, he's an Alum of Saint Leo who works for the Red Sox and he's in town for the game. He's sporting his 2007 World Series bling (see photo above!). He takes it off, and says..."do you want to try it on?"

Seriously.

Then he tells me to to get a camera and allows me to have a photoshoot with it. I'm instantly a 14 year old girl at this point...giddy and ridiculous and it was ok. You would think Nomar had left Mia, made a full recovery, and was coming back to the Red Sox...that's how ridiculous I was. Or that they were remaking "Rudolph" and Kevin Youkilis was going to take on the rold of "Yukon Cornelius."

So, of COURSE I don't have my freaking camera on me...so I got a disposable one for good pictures and used my cell phone for the one "up top."

Then as he's leaving he says "do you want to go to the game tomorrow?"

Seriously.

Now this was Friday...and stupid me goes "I've got plans...but how about game 7?" But then I'm thinking NOT stupid me because if I want to go to any game it's going to be game 7...right? So his girlfriend/wife/lady friend says "what if there isn't one?" I turned all Red Sox psycho at this point (which isn't a very far jump from reality for me) and said "OH there WILL BE A GAME 7!" It's how true Red Sox Nationals roll! So he took my number and promised to call today. Which he did...and I'm going to the game!!!

Check out my twitter feed for updates throughout the game!

One last thing...say it loud...say it proud!! LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!

Happy Birthday, Eva!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 04:27:00 +0000

Eva Grace is 1 year old today!!!

A weekend with good friends...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:21:00 +0000

Ok...I've spent lots of hours making this album up and I should have gone to bed a long long time ago...so please follow this link to my flickr set of the weekend and enjoy!!

Why haven't you gone yet? There are Sea World pictures! AND MICKEY MOUSE!! Yes...THE MOUSE!!! GOOOOOOO!!!

Bob on TV!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 03:32:00 +0000

Today the Blue Jays triumphed over the Tampa Rays...not that the Red Sox won this evening to take advantage of the situation...but whatever. Meh.

The Blue Jays had a shut out game...until the top of the 9th inning. So help me, God. Suddenly it was going to the bottom of the ninth, tied 3-3. In the top of the 13th inning...oh, I'm serious...that's a big 13...the Rays score making it a one run game and making me sad. Somehow, when the Blue Jays took their turn at bat...the bases were suddenly loaded. Ok...there's some hope here. Then there's two outs and people are packing up. My friend called to make dinner plans and I was telling her "yeah, I just sat through this game and I didn't see Bobby once..." Wait!!!! I'm suddenly jumping up and down in my living room, hoopin' and hollerin'! Gregg Zaun just blasted one over the Bud Light wall for a Grand Freaking Slam!!!! And as soon as he hits the dugout...he's giving the ol' high five to some very happy people...including Brother Bob!!! I video taped it with my camera...what the heck did I do before DVR?!?!

So this first video is of the home run and Bob in the dugout...the second is a "snippet" if you will...it's a replay of the Grand Slam with more "Bobby" in the dugout. He's playing with a cooler of some sort...I can only assume he was put in charge of getting the Labatt's ready for the evening.

FYI...I taped these from my television (that's why it looks crappy!) but I couldn't have done it without the fine broadcasting network of FSN and those wonderful folks at MLB. Please note, neither are responsible for the "craptitude" of the videos below. Please don't sue me.

A lovely little Saturday...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 15:49:00 +0000

from photobucket.com

I went to bed late last night (thank you new obsession Facebook!!)...or early this morning...after several to many bottles of icy cold Yuengling I thought I would sleep the morning away. At least I thought I would sleep past the hour of 7 am. Wrongo!! I hate "natural body clock." I was up at 5:30 am. Yup, first morning I can "sleep in" for the last 3 weeks...and I frig it up!!

So, this morning I was off and running. Don't be scared...I meant that metaphorically! Though I did take a lovely stroll around Saint Fake Lake around my apartment complex...and didn't see one gator. Lucky girl!!

I got home and cleaned up, then called Honda to see about my "battry." Oh, did I never mention that yesterday when I got out of work Diego's battery was dead? Yeah, and they couldn't even jump it-the little jerk had to be completely replaced. Meh. The wait for AAA wasn't bad though, it was only about 20 minutes. Of course the sun that had been hiding all day decided to come out while I waited...but I had a good book (Bright Lights, Big Ass by Jen Lancaster...read it!!) and the window shade to protect me. I called my Dad after the rescue was complete and he mentioned something about my "extended warranty" and something or other...but it all implied that I knew the contractual jargon involved with said "extended warranty" and really? Come on. Then the conversation shifted to the fact that Bobby's season with the Lugnuts came to an end when they lost yesterday...boo! But was miraculously more joyous because Bobby was going to join the big team for the weekend in Toronto!! Hooray!! Here's the best part...they are playing Tampa all weekend...and because the Blue Jays kicked their arses last night...the mighty Red Sox are now within 2.5 games of Tampa! I'm praying for a sweep!

Ok...so back to this morning...I called Honda and indeed they will honor the blah, blah contract blah, blah...but I have to bring in the dead battery. Oops. AAA took it. So after some research with AAA, I find the guy that rescued me and they are holding the battery for me to pick up on Monday so that I can bring it to Honda and they can make things right again:) Wee!

So then I played on facebook a little more-seriously...it's like computer crack! Listened to some tunes via iTunes (who doesn't love a little "Man in the Mirror" in the am?) and started cleaning my seriously neglected apartment. Should I have told you to sit down for that? Sorry! I've actually kept the place really tidy...but the last few weeks I've literally come home and crashed after work. In my next life...I'll have a butler/manservant. So now it's 12:06pm and I realize that I've not had the television on AT ALL today. AT ALL. I'm stunned and disillusioned. It's going on soon though...must see if I can spot Bobby in the dugout!!

9021...uh oh!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 01:53:00 +0000

It’s taken me a few days to process the New 90210. At first I think I was so smitten by the idea of the show that I was completely blind to it’s failure. I received several text messages from friends that were absolutely disillusioned by it...but I hung in. The entire two hours. I even tried to support it the next day...but I the more I tried to come to it's defense...the reality became more blatant.

It totally sucks.

The sad thing is it’s trying so hard to be the classic (*please note that I changed the word "old" to "classic" here because if I say that it's "old" that means I too am "old" and I'm NOT going down that road!) show and the new version, independent of the "classic," at the same time. The war between the new and the "classic" is the absolute cause of a major breakdown. I mean come on, we’ve been watching promos all summer for this show and I just envisioned something…well…less crappy! The only good thing about it is the drunk Nana...she's brilliant!

Here’s the thing, Classic 90210 wasn’t known for it’s brilliant writing or stunningly talented actors either. But that was the 90’s, and television media has come a long way since “Donna Martin Graduates!” New 9-0 is seriously flawed. Honestly, if you are going to start a new program in the season following a writer’s strike that just about murdered any potential of new shows succeeding…shouldn’t it, at the very very least, be a little less hack? Isn't that what the fight was all about? It's not an episode of Passions...it has the name 90210 attached to it. Have some class! It was like watching a collage of ads for all those other teen shows…you know Gossip Girl and the like. Maybe that was the point of it? Like one of those “Scary Movie” type rip-off/make fun of movies? I don’t know…bottom line…it was baaaaad.

I really did want it to be good…probably because of all the memories I have of Classic 90210. All of us convening in the lounge at Saint Mary’s with those AWFUL couches that looked like cardboard and potato sacks sewed together. Watching in awe as Kelly went from bitchy beast, to the girl everyone wanted to date. Please...remember when Dylan and Brandon fought over her…and she said “I choose ME!” Unforgettable!! Or when she had the coke problem because of Colin (there's a funny story involving pixie sticks and school id's...but I won't get into that now)? Or Donna getting pushed down the stairs by Ray? Is that really the way you talk to an angel, Ray? Or Kelly and David having to learn to be brother and sister? Steve getting them to go to a rave where they were only allowed in with an egg? Emily going batshit crazy on Brandon?? Or when they started featuring music and Donna would go to the jukebox and say "Jeremy Jordan...alright!" Dylan hitting "rock bottom" one week, and "an all time low" the very next? Or the summer we were blessed with new episodes while Brandon waited on his friends at the Beach Club? 90210 and Melrose Place also brought us the "previews" for the next week. I still remember being in the lounge when the credits started and Kim B standing up...raising her arms like she was Moses parting the seas pronouncing "SSSSHH...SCEEEEEEEEEEEEEENES!!!" Bottom line...even adding "classic" cast members...I'm pretty sure unless they make some major changes (and I'm thinking that they would literally have to resurrect Scott Scanlon at this point)...New 9-0 is headed for the crapper.

Of course I could be completely wrong...and if by some fart's chance in a windstorm this actually succeeds...then it could start a whole new trend of bringing back revered television shows. If that is the case...my vote the next one is either Dawson's Creek or Little House. Or, they could just crossbreed them both...that would still be better than New 9-0. Eek.

Success!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:19:00 +0000

image from photobucket.com

My neighbor's concert started at 8:17 PM EDT.

MY concert, featuring the famed New Kids on the Block, began at 8:18 PM EDT.

**The playlist included:
"Grown Man" from the newly released "The Block" CD (in stores now...go get it!!)
"Step by Step" a selection from "The Greatest Hits" CD.

My neighbor's concert ended sometime between 8:19 PM EDT and 8:25 PM EDT...not sure precisely the time as I was engaged in some melodious rapture from my own concert. All I know is that when "Step by Step" started the "step" countdown...suddenly the night belonged rightfully to NKOTB.

I win I win I win!!!!!!!

oh oh...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 23:30:00 +0000

photo from amazon.com

Yes, the day we've waited the entire "Summertime" has finally arrived!! The New Kids on the Block CD, "The Block," has finally been released to the public!! More importantly...it's finally been released to MEE!!!

I got up early this morning to beat the rush at Target for the CD. Ok...I couldn't sleep so I was up at 4 am. Generally, being up that early I'd be upset and distraught...but not today!!! In fact, when Mr. Neighboroonie started his concert at 5 am...I was fine and dandy with it!!! Especially considering the fact that I knew I would return the favor in roughly 12-13 hours. And MY concert would star the New Kids on the Block!!!! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!

So, FF to 7:30...I depart my home for Target. It's at least a 7 minute drive with the lights...so I wanted to make sure I left in plenty of time to rush the doors with fervor!! The flyer from the weekend said "while supplies last" so I have to get my hands on the CD without opposition. But it was SO weird...it was just me and some elderly folks waiting. And color me shocked when they stated they were there for some sale on socks and Metamucil...and NOT the music release of the year!!

So the doors open and I make my way to the music section...there it is kids...and I'm the first one to relish in it's magnificence!! I grab the red hued CD and then realize...there are 2 selections I can choose from!! The blue colored CD doubles as a DVD and has 4 bonus tracks. Pssshht! Like there will be question as to which I choose!!! And simmer down...I only bought one copy. I'm maturing...deal with it!

I rush out to my car and open the package. Now, how long since CD's were invented and yet I'm still breaking nails trying to open it and finding that sticky case closer sticker torn to pieces sticking to my shoe later in the day??

I put in the CD and the first few notes cause a giddy smile on my face. As an added bonus...the first track has a STRONG bass beat...PERFECT for the concert I plan to treat my neighbor with later in the day! I proceed to drive to work, slowly...traffic laws should be upheld...and I want to get in as much listening as I can before I have to go to work dammit!!

I get to the song "2 in the Morning" (track 5 of "The Block") and I almost have to pull over because I'm laughing so hard. Tears are streaming down my face and I'm thinking...did I just hear what I think I heard?? The storyline of the song is basically one of my boys is singing to his girlfriend or wife or me and basically she/me has come home and is upset but won't share why...so they proceed to argue without talking for a long time. Then I hear something...something hilarious. I rewind it a bit to listen harder...because it just can't be...nope...yup...I heard the line right..."Gotta know if you're mad at me before Gray's Anatomy."

Frigging comedy genius!!

The boys are back. Without question...without fail. I love that they make me all swoony and laughy in conjunction!! They made me get through a long ridiculous day and I will be forever grateful!! My trip home to see them in concert will be monumental. 23 days just seems too long...I'll just have to risk my life playing "The Block" while driving and such! Oh!! The people on the plane are gonna LOVE me!!!

I'm off for more High School reminiscing...The New 90210 premieres in 3 minutes!!

DUH NUH NUH NUH
DUH NUH NUH NUH
CHHH CHHH!!!

Rock you like a Hurricane...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:47:00 +0000

Update: It's 7:26 am and my county (Pasco) is in the clear. It's not even raining. The storm is tracked to head east, then come back on land in Jacksonville (way North FL) on Friday. At least that's what Al Roker is telling me...from Beijing...with his horn rimmed glasses. Meh. So all is swell for me...I'm headed to work now. Thank you for your happy thoughts!! They worked!!

Yeah, so remember I moved to Florida to avoid the snowstorms? Mmm-hmm...dummy traded in shoveling for water and canned goods hoarding! As some of you may have heard "Tropical Storm Fay" may be turning into a Category 1 Hurricane. Oh, and plowing right through my neck of the woods. AWWWWEEESOOOOME. Oh, and though I'm not in a flood zone that doesn't mean that I won't get to see some of those fancy tornadoes! Just call me Dorothy! Seriously, I'll be the jerk on The Today Show tomorrow, sitting on my roof and singing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." Look for it on youtube;)

It's all good though, I've taken the proper precautions. I have batteries for my clock radio, a phone that's not cordless, a full tank of gas in case of evacuation, a flashlight, and some cans of tuna. I've taken all my deck furniture in so the wind doesn't allow them to come in on their own! I'm like a hurricane rock star! The latest reports are saying that the storm will remain a Tropical Storm, and I'd pretty much appreciate that seeing as classes start at school a week from tomorrow. I've got books to sell!! When I moved down here I kept Diego...and people looked at me and said "4 wheel Drive?? In the flattest state in America?' You so crazy!!" And I'll just be laughing myself all the way up North when everyone else's car is stuck in the mud.
I won't laugh...maybe.

I did make the mistake of going to the grocery store this afternoon post work...that place was a madhouse. I don't even know why I went because I got everything yesterday. Whatever. I'm home now...the hatches are battened down, as they say. I'm going to watch Days of Our Lives, even though it's been truly aggravating as of late. I'm addicted though-I can't stop.

Peace all, and if you or other loved ones are dealing with "the Fay," I hope you are safe, secure, happy and hydrated!!

Bob is famous! Again!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 21:32:00 +0000

photo courtesy of The York Weekly

My hella cool brother Bob was named the Midwest League Athletic Trainer of the Year. As such, our hometown paper wrote up an article about him...he rocks! We're so proud of him:) Below is the article, and you can also link to it here.

York's Tarpey honored as Midwest League Athletic Trainer of the Year

By Jay Pinsonnault
jpinsonnault@seacoastonline.com
August 06, 2008 6:00 AM

Bob Tarpey is still chasing his dream of becoming an athletic trainer for a Major League Baseball team, and the 1999 York High School graduate just received a major award that may help his dream become reality.

Tarpey, in his second season with the Toronto Blue Jays' Low Single A affiliate, the Lansing Lugnuts, was recently notified he was named the 2008 Midwest League Athletic Trainer of the Year.

"I was shocked," Tarpey said. "I really didn't think I'd win. It's a very nice honor."

The award was voted on by the 14 athletic trainers in the Midwest League. In fact, athletic trainers for the Blue Jays' affiliates in the Florida State League and Eastern League also won similar awards for their respective leagues.

"The Blue Jays had the most winners, it looks like we're all doing a good job," Tarpey said. "It looks good having that (award) on your resume."

Tarpey eventually aspires to be the athletic trainer for the Blue Jays and usually hears at the end of the regular season where he will be assigned the following year.

"There hasn't been any talk of me moving up quite yet," Tarpey said. "For me to move up, someone ahead of me has to be moved up to the majors, then a spot could open up for me. It's always a possibility to go to the majors at anytime. I am hoping for my chance, but right now I am happy to be here in Lansing and be with the Blue Jays. The organization has great people from top to bottom, and I am really happy to be where I am."

Tarpey, who was a big Red Sox fan growing up and played Little League and high school baseball in York, said there would be no hesitation if he were to choose to be the head athletic trainer of the Blue Jays or Red Sox.

"I'd definitely stay with the Blue Jays," Tarpey said. "They've been very loyal to me, very fair to me. Right now, my dream job would be to get to Double A and the New Hampshire Fisher Cats."

The Lugnuts won the first half of the Midwest League Eastern Division, earning the coaching and training staff a trip to the Midwest League All-Star game in June in Midland, Mich., home of the Great Lakes Loons, Single-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Legendary Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda threw out the first pitch.

"(Lasorda) stayed in the dugout and spoke with coaches and staff," Tarpey said. "It was one of the greatest experiences I've had in baseball, meeting Tommy Lasorda and talking baseball with him. He was telling lots of stories and we all listened to what he had to say."

Tarpey has had his share of working with many greats of the game, including Roy Halladay, Vernon Wells, Carlos Delgado, and most recently Frank Thomas, who arrived at spring training about a week early to get some extra work in.

"(Thomas) was working on his hitting and they needed a trainer to go watch and make sure he didn't get hurt," Tarpey said. "So for a week, I worked with Frank Thomas. He was the best, just awesome. He's a class act and a great guy. Just being able to see his work ethic was incredible. He's a Hall of Fame hitter, one of the best players."

Thomas was later released by the Blue Jays and resigned with the Oakland A's.

Tarpey, upon his college graduation from the University of Maine at Presque Isle in 2003, landed an internship with the Toronto Blue Jays as an athletic trainer. Since "getting his foot in the door" with the Blue Jays, Tarpey earned his master's degree in athletic training from California University of Pennsylvania, and spent half a season in 2005 as the athletic trainer for the Mesa Miners, an Independent League team in Arizona. He then worked with the United States Navy in Newport, R.I., working with Navy SEALs.

The Blue Jays then hired Tarpey for the 2006 season to be an athletic trainer with the Pulaski Blue Jays, who were then their rookie league affiliate in the Appalachian League. The Blue Jays ended their relationship with Pulaski after that season, and Tarpey has been in Lansing since.

Toronto third-base coach Brian Butterfield, a fellow Maine resident, made things easier for Tarpey when he was serving his internship in 2003.

"Once he found out I was from Maine, he kind of took me under his wing," Tarpey said. "He's one of the best, first class all the way."

Tarpey, 27, puts in at least 12 hours a day during the 140-game regular season with about one or two days off a month. He mostly works on players' various medical ailments such as hamstrings, quads, shoulders, etc.

When the team is on a homestand, Tarpey usually arrives at the ballpark around noon for a 7 p.m. game. He does treatment on players from about 2 to 3:15 p.m., and then after batting practice, does treatment for about another 45 minutes to an hour. During the game he is in the dugout and attends to any player who may need his services during the game. After the game, Tarpey does about 45 minutes of treatment and then when everybody leaves, he does his daily medical report and faxes it off to the Blue Jays.

"The best part of my job is helping players and the challenge of keeping players healthy so they can develop and eventually move up the system," Tarpey said.

The worst part of his job is not the seven-hour bus ride from Lansing to Appleton, Wisc.

"The worst part is being away from home, being away from my friends and family in York," Tarpey said. "There's really nothing about the job I don't like. I don't even mind the long bus rides. I want to thank my mother and father, because without them I certainly wouldn't be where I am today. They are my motivation."

The Lugnuts were off on Monday before beginning a four-game series at the South Bend (Ind.) Silver Hawks. Tarpey took advantage of the day off and drove two hours with members of the Lugnuts broadcasting team to Chicago, taking in the Cubs and Astros game at Wrigley Field. It was Tarpey's first time at the historic ballpark and he sat in the bleachers.

"Wrigley was unbelievable," Tarpey said. "I loved it, but it's not Fenway Park. Just being there was amazing. If you like baseball, you have to go to Wrigley."

A "Sweet" Housewarming Treat!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 20:11:00 +0000

After a pretty miserable morning at the dentist (and a wallet draining one at that!), I came home to find the UPS man left me a little love note on the door. He missed me! Mostly because I wasn't there...and he wanted to give me a present. Wow, this just took a weird and unnecessary turn! So I went to the office to pick up my package and the lady asked me if I'd ordered anything from m&m's? I was all..."no." She then asked if it was my birthday. I was all "no." I don't get the interrogation...just give me my stuff!! So, she comes out with this ginourmous box with colorful m&m's all over it...oooh...pretty. (I'm so easily amused!) Then she wants me to open it in front of her...she's a little pushy...but I oblige because I want to rub in the fact that I got a present...nah nah nah boo boo! (I've matured SO much this year!) I unwrap this adorable Red Sox emblazoned m&m dispenser/coin bank! And along with it...3 packages of Red Sox m&m's!! Way too cute to consume...and luckily...anyone who tries to has to pay the toll! Sure, there are directions for just getting the superfan candy free...but the only ones who will enjoy the Red Sox m&m goodness sans a penny would be those who provided them in the first place!! So I'd like to give a warm and sincere THANK YOU to Drew, Allison, and my little buddy, Eva for this very thoughtful gift! I'm very blessed to count you as friends!! I can't wait to see you all next month!!

Thank you for being a friend...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 01:15:00 +0000

Cheesy line...I agree...but the only lead in I thought was appropriate for the occasion. As you must know by know Estelle Getty, known for playing the cantankerous Sophia Petrillo on The Golden Girls passed earlier this week. On Friday, Lifetime will be honoring her memory with a "marathon" of Sophia episodes. I put "marathon" in quotation marks because it's in the middle of a work day and it only runs for 5 hours. Regardless...it starts at noon...check your local listings. Also, you can vote for your favorite Sophia episode here. That will be chosen as the "viewer favorite" and will be the final one to air.

Sophia: When is old lady Claxton's funeral? I want to pay my respects
Dorothy: Pay your respects? I thought you hated her
Sophia: I did. But when a person dies you go to their funeral to show the man upstairs you have respect for human life, no matter how wretched it was. Any idiot knows that.
Rose: I knew that.
Sophia: See?

What's the happs...?

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 03:02:00 +0000

My "vacationus interruptus" ended today. Translation: I left vacation to come back and work Orientation. I'm awesome and dedicated. Where's my raise? Orientation is now over and I can commence in the joy of not working again. Love it!

Anyhoo...as I venture out for part deux of vacation...I thought since I'm on a roll blogging this week (two days in a row!! wooo!!) I'd give you a few tidbits to chew on whilst I'm burning on the Beach of Cocoa. I better be burning anyway...the forecast...it does not look good.

a) Since I've moved to Florida I've become reacquainted with my good friends from Salem via "Days of Our Lives." Maybe obsessed is a better word. It all started when I was living in the Casa De Crap hotel. I found it one day...saw that "Patch/Steve" was back...they showed some clips that made me feel really old because...sigh...I remember when they originally aired. Seriously, like I remember being enamored with the giant bangs and floral print Mormon style frocks they wore on the show. Such style! THEN, they threw in a twist of a plane crash...brutal. It took 2 weeks for the plane to actually hit the ground from when they first experienced issues...but that's all in soap time anyway. I'd go from laughing at the consistently poor acting, to (yep, I'm admitting it) a face soaked with tears when Grampa Shawn died...so his family could live...a point they re-iterated for the following 4 months over and over and over again. Writer's strike...whaaaat? John Black has had his memory erased...by Stefano...again. This time it's for keepers. John is not the nice guy everyone knows him to be anymore...which just means he gets to act weirder, creepier, and can once again pull off his patented "smell the fart" acting. Solid. My favorite "twist" thus far is the relationship between Max Brady and his girlfriend Stephanie. Some of my friends know the issue I have with this...but you be the judge. Maybe I'm just being a prude...but I'm going to say I'm ok with that. See...Max is the adopted brother of Kayla Brady Johnson...Stephanie's mom. Seriously, I don't care that he's adopted and they aren't blood related...they are Uncle and Niece and that's just too weird. AND it's the second of his niece's that he's dated. Say it with me people....NOOOOO! I'm telling you, start to Tivo or DVR this classic program. The acting is GOD-awful...but at least it remains consistent. Oh, and I tried to get back into Guiding Light...but Reva was wearing the same outfit as someone on The Girls Next Door would wear and Josh is now a "man of the cloth." Again...all together now...NOOOOOO!!

2) I know you all know that I pledge allegiance to the United Bliss of Bare Escentuals. However, I just can't get down with their mascara choices. Sorry, Leslie...but I have to tell the truth! I kind of like the "weather everything," but it's a pain in the arse to get off at night. All the other ones I find that I'm wearing under my eyes at the end of the day. I need a mascara that will not make me look like I've "gone rounds" especially when Jose Cuervo was not even involved. So, one day I'm watching TV (surprise!) and Eva Longoria tells me that she's using L'Oreal's Voluminous mascara AND that it "doesn't flake off." I've got no reason to doubt Ms. Longoria-Parker. I mean, she did "date" JC Chasez at one time. Seriously. No seriously...stop laughing!!! Anyhoo...magically at Target, that brand was on sale...so I've tried it and I'm telling you now that it's the best mascara I've used. Seriously, I'm sharing the info with the world because you should all know. I've had my eyelashes dyed in the past, and I felt that was a stupid decision. It hurt way too much to be worth it...EVER. And I just don't think my lashes ever recovered from the "trauma." If I'm investing the time and money in the shadows that I'm using...I want a mascara that's going to highlight the achievement! I'm sick of trying to pry clumped lashes from each other...it's weird and I just don't like it. So if you are ever so inclined to try Voluminous I think you should. Then you can feel pretty! Drewbie...I know that you don't use mascara...well, I don't "know" that...but if you ever feel so inclined...no judgement...just try Voluminous and you won't be disappointed. Allison might be...but that's something you would have to work out...and I'll be here for you both:)

d) I've actually gotten away from the TV this summer! I know!!!!! You're shocked and a little freaked right?!?! I can hardly believe it my damn self!! Brace yourselves, peeps...I've been...READING!! Actual books!! Not just magazines and online gossip about Madonna and A-Rod (scumbag)!

When my friend Nikki came to visit last month she told me about Charlaine Harris and her Southern vampire mystery novels. I had a gift card from B&N (shhhh!) and purchased the first 3 of the series. Nikki and I have a lot of common interests...so I trusted her judgment and recommendation. OF COURSE, she was right. The first book, Dead Until Dark, was creepy and funny, and I couldn't put it down. I read to day that the series will be on TV in the fall on HBO...it's called True Blood. Guess who's gonna have to get HBO? Seriously, I need an intervention! I was very excited to read the second installation, but in the store we got a book for our Bestseller display entitled "Such a Pretty Fat," by Jen Lancaster. Without doubt the funniest book I have ever read. It's a memoir of the author's attempt to lose weight. Every page I read made me want to be friends with this woman. I legitimately laughed out loud throughout the book. Several of my friends went out and bought it too and now we've moved on to (at least I have) one of Lancaster's previous books "Bitter is the New Black." To us, Lancaster is "the new Black." Seriously, I cannot emphasize enough how brutally funny this book is. Reading it your head will hurt from laughing, and your neck will hurt from all the nodding in agreement. It's a literal instance of "it's funny because it's true." Invest in some Depends undergarments...I'm just saying...

@) Are you more shocked that I actually read two books this summer and we're only mid-way through July (I only work in a bookstore...pssh...whatever!)...or that I went on for 2 whole paragraphs about mascara and Days of Our Lives? Yes, I'm a mess...but that's what keeps you reading:)

PS) Also...you all MUST watch Bridezillas on WE. It's on Sundays at 9pm Eastern. Last week's episode will be repeated at 8pm on this Sunday. YOU MUST WATCH. Must is not a "guideline" or "suggestion," it is a demand. I think last week's episode was my favorite of all time. If you saw it...was "Irony Cam" not one of the greatest things ever on this show!? If you haven't...I promise you "guffaws" of laughter. If you do not laugh I cannot be responsible for the fact you have no sense of humor.

PPS) At orientation today I saw a kid with a Red Sox hat. All red, fitted. His ensemble was a white t-shirt and blue jeans. I asked if he was from Boston and he said "No, I'm not even a fan...I just wore this cuz it matched."

Excuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuse me? Yes, while I agree that all fashion should include Red Sox paraphernalia as everyone should love the Sox with all their souls...at this point that hasn't been declared a law yet...regardless of how I feel. I think you should have to at least like the Red Sox to wear their moniker...am I right? Meh. Happy All-Star Break!

Alright, no more procrastination...the dryer just ended and I must finish packing so I can "go Cocoa" tomorrow!

Even I'm not this bad...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 02:55:00 +0000

photo from gizmodo.com

Ok...I heart the Gilmore Girls...but not enough to risk my life (or anyone else's) for them. Some lady was pulled over in Maine (seriously...it was NOT me...I've been a "Floridian" for quite some time now!) because she was trying to stay awake by watching episodes of GG on her laptop. The GG's wouldn't even do that. Rory would have books on cd...Lorelai would be blasting The Bangles or something...but watching TV while driving...just wouldn't happen in Gilmore Land...Kirk might have done it. But he's not a Gilmore...so it doesn't count.

"You put your weed in there..."

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 19:56:00 +0000

That is a reference to a Saturday Night Live Skit featuring Christian Slater. It was in the Chris Farley days...and the show was good. We had this episode on tape and watched it constantly in college. For those of you who are reading this asking "who's Christian Slater?": Shame on you. Seriously...give me your name. You'll go on the list. Also, if you can ever see the Jason Priestly episode when they pretend to be the New Kids on Arsenio Hall...classic episode. ("It's whicked haahd to sing and dance at the same time!") Chris Farley era again...and he figure skates. God Bless him.

So, I had to do a presentation at work today. Always fun getting up in front of a crowd of bored to death people. Even better was the dick that went before me took out my "already set up because I got there an hour early" jump drive with my presentation on it. Did I mention "said Dick" didn't know that you had to remove it "safely," and thus corrupted my presentation? Fan-frigging-tastic. Well, on the way to the presentation that I arrived an hour early for...I spotted some debris on the sidewalk. Being a model citizen, and caring about the earth as I do (and considering it wasn't slimy) I picked it up with the intention of disposing it in the conveniently placed garbage can only a few feet away. When I picked it up I realized, low and behold, this wasn't debris that was thrown away on purpose. Some jerk dropped their dime bag. Unreal. So now, I'm walking over to the presentation with illegal drugs. Awesome! I call Security...this is the conversation...

Them: "Security."

Me: "Hi this is Maureen...I'm on my way to present to a gym full of parents and would like someone to meet me and take the marijuana I just found."

Them: "What?"

Me: "I found some marijuana and I'd feel a lot more comfortable if someone would come and pick it up from me so it doesn't go flying out of my portfolio when I'm demonstrating the best way to order books online. Thanks."

Them: "REALLY??? How much??"

Me: "Really what? Really I found it...or really I'm ready for someone from Security to come take it? Or really that I'm standing outside in the sweltering heat and sweat is dripping into my eyeballs even though I have to make a presentation in 10 minutes while you ask questions?" (**sidenote: I got there when I was told and didn't get on stage until an hour later. Not cool. Look for them on the list!)

Them: "How do you know it's marijuana?"

Me: "Do you really need my resume? Do you want to know how many Cheech and Chong movies I've seen in my lifetime...or will past experience working in ResLife help me here? Oh, a couple of my friends in college were stoners...I much prefer the booze so I stayed away from smoking. I much prefer abusing my liver to my lungs. But at some point in my 29.4 years I did learn how to identify it. That, and it's in a little plastic baggie with pot leaves on the side. I think that was kind of the distibutor don't you? That way some little kid that could have found it on the sidewalk would have known that it was bad and to not smoke it or ask his mommy to put it in brownies."

Them: "Wow."

Me: "Was it yours? Seriously, I've got about 3 minutes to get inside and make an ass of myself...could someone come get it?"

Them: "Oh yeah, where are you?"

Me: "I'm at the Gym."

Them: "Where?"

Me: "The Gym...seriously...might it be yours?"

So finally the director shows up and takes it from me. I've met this woman a dozen times (she's ripped up several to many parking tickets for me in the brief time I've worked here...I'm sorry...but if NO ONE is on campus then one hour parking should not be enforced. That's an argument for another day.) and she still can't remember my identity. That just tells me I can keep parking where I want! (NEVER in handicapped spots though...that ain't cool.) She thanks me and rides off on the Golf Cart of Justice with the baggie clenched tight between her two hands. Dude, it's weed...it's not diamonds. Don't worry-she wasn't driving. I think her chauffer was the Gorton's Fisherman...or at least he had the beard.

Northern Invasion...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 03:24:00 +0000

I took this last year at Cocoa Beach...a practically empty beach-just the way I love it!

It's about to happen...just a few more days and I will be greeting my family in my new home. Can you believe I've been a Florida resident for close to 7 months? I can't! So yes, the vacation begins this weekend and I'm really in need of it. Mostly I need my "Peggy fix." I haven't seen her since February, and a lot has happened. I just miss that kid!

The best part of the vacation, besides being reunited with the fam...is that I'm actually going to relax. Crazy...I know! Usually our vacations are crowded and hectic. We've all made a pledge that we're going to take it easy. The place we are staying in the first week even has it's own pool and hot tub. Add some beer to the equation and there will be zero need to leave! We'll be preparing our own meals, and just enjoying some peace and quiet. What? You've been around my family and know there is no such thing as "P & Q?" Yeah, but that's what makes us special! The only missing link will be Brother Bob as he's off in Michigan working. Boo.

I've also made a pledge...wait for it...I'm going to keep a photo journal. I know...it's just crazy enough to work. But it means I'll have to actually work for it. It's OK...I found a bunch of my rechargeable camera batteries on clearance...so I've stocked up! In no way will it be professional-just for fun:) I'm not that great a photographer...but I'm excited to get to the beach for some shots!! No worries...there will be no pictures of people I don't know...unless they're sporting permed mullets and speedos. And it truth that will just be to warn you all that combined or separate...big no no.

So it's been awhile...here's a brief "fun-down" of some goings on...because I know you all are anticipating my BS with bated breath!

-Last weekend I traveled to Boynton Beach, FL to see Allison and Eva, and Allison's parents Marcia and Dan! It was my first road trip since moving down here and it was a blast! We laughed and gossiped and went swimming in the pool. Eva is a marvel and has the sweetest personality! I'm already looking forward to a reunion in September...and Drew will be there this time too!

photo from photobucket.com
-I did see "Sex and The City" and in truth, not all that impressed. I legitimately watch SATC every night on TBS. I acknowledge, that might have been my issue. I've been watching the PG versions. But after I saw the movie I brought out the DVD's and yeah...still not completely digging the movie version. I did my best to avoid teasers and such...but too much of the plot line was already revealed. The ending was predictable. The overall voice of the film was not that of the television show. It just didn't make a lot of sense to me. I'll try it again when it comes out on DVD...but for now...I'll stick with my nightly marathons of the real thing.

-I bought a Wii. I know! I'm 33 and playing video games...but I like them so bite me! I have to hook it up to the Internet so I can play my other friends (who I assure you are adults and over the age of 16!!) online. I've purchased two games so far, Wii Play and Boogie. Boogie is hilarious. Aliens, karaoke and dancing...how can one go wrong? I love baseball...though I might have to graduate to one that allows you to pitch a little less perfectly. I think it's more to get used to the "wii-mote" but this girl takes her ball seriously. Ok...this girl takes her "virtual video game ball" seriously.

-My new favorite beer is Yuengling. Many friends told me of this lovely lager over the years, but as it's only dispensed in PA and here in FL...well...I didn't have access to it before. Now I do...and it makes me happy to be a Floridian! If you're ever in the way of trying it...I highly recommend you do. It might make you want to vacation here more, and if that's the case...remember I have the extra room:)

There's more I could bore you with...but I won't. Work has been busy...I make mad apologies again for not keeping up with the blog! I'm a jerk. Again!

Happy 1st Anniversary to Nancy and Stephen!!

Today in Aggravation...

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:34:00 +0000

Let me just rant for a second. Thank you.

When I go to the movies, one of the best parts is seeing the previews...at least to me anyway. It still kind of is. However, in recent years the trend has been that the "preview" turns into a mini version of the movie. It's ridiculous. Why bother paying to see a movie in the theater if you've already seen in in the previews? With the price of gas and popcorn it's just not worth it.

Case in point...I've been doing everything possible to steer clear of previews and spoilers for Sex and the City, to be released at the end of the month. Now, a few years ago when I didn't have HBO, I managed to avoid how the SERIES ended by waiting a few months for the DVD's to be released. It took me less than two days to watch them, and I loved it. Now fast forward to the past two months and it's a whole new world when it comes to the movie spoilers. I already know two key plot points (and don't worry...I won't share them here)...because I saw one effing preview. COME ON!! I haven't watched Entertainment Tonight in weeks, forget People Magazine...it's just insane. In fact, a few weeks ago I went to see Leatherheads with George Clooney and my precious John Krasinski. Leatherheads which tanked...and you know why...because legitimately ALL of the funny parts were in the previews and the ads on tv. It was a pretty decent movie...but everyone had seen it before and were not about to be tricked into paying another 10 bucks to see it in it's entirety. Yeah, I got tricked...but for George and John...I'd do it again!

It's just annoying. It's just about the only movie I'm looking forward to seeing this summer...which is VERY odd behavior for me. Alright...I'll stop being a crybaby now...and seriously...if you try and add spoilers in the comments you will be banned and end up on "the list." You don't want that...

I'm coming home!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Tue, 06 May 2008 00:50:00 +0000

Not for good...just for a lovely weekend in September where I can gaze upon the beautiful New England Autumn colors...oh...AND SEE NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK!!!!!!!

I'm not exaggerating in the least...Kim told me today that she procured us some tickets for the event and once it kicked in...I won't lie...I will not apologize...I teared up! Last week was exhausting between commencement, and people not showing up, and buyback...but today...a simple phone call healed everything. In

I will reunite with the New Kids...and all will be right with the world!!!

33

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 14:50:00 +0000

image from beersodasports.com

Some interesting facts about the number 33...

Did you sense a theme here?

Yes kids, I'm celebrating my 33rd b-day today. It's my first year living in Florida, but it's not the first birthday I've ever celebrated down here. This is the 23rd anniversary of the infamous "Hot Fudge Wig" episode that has been a source of comic fodder in my family for years. The gist of the tale is this: when driving down to Florida to visit family, we were also celebrating April vacation and my 10th birthday. Our wonderful cousin Nancy, who many of you know as "Jovifan"
came along for the ride. We stopped at some place in the morning for breakfast, as we were transporting overnight in the now retired giant blue van, complete with "Cap'ns Chairs." After breakfast, the waitresses regaled me in a song of Happy Birthday...and brought out a giant chunk of hot fudge cake...at like 8 in the morning. Later on in the day...something happened to the van and we were forced to stop in Jacksonville to make repairs. In the parking lot of the garage we were patronizing someone had abandoned their toupe/wig/hairpiece, and it had since collected some filth and oil smattering. Nancy and Elizabeth, mocking my cake from earlier in the day, dubbed it the "Hot Fudge Wig" and told me that was my next birthday present. I didn't have such a great sense of humor about it...but as the years went on...my appreciation for it grew. In fact, a few years ago it was re-crafted and given to me again. You don' t want to know.

Alright everyone, I'm off to the pizz-ool...have a lovely day!!!

GO RED SOX!!!!!

This just in: Friday, April 4th Declared National Holiday!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:29:00 +0000

So not true...but it sooo should be!! New Kids on the Block, as if you haven't heard, are making a triumphant comeback starting this Friday on the Today Show!!! Bust out your back issues of Tiger Beat and that giant photo book they sold and that you must admit that you bought and still have...admit it...you are among friends here!!!

Words cannot describe how happy I am. I think it was prophetic that I found the cassette tape when I did! I think it was wonderous that Backstreet Boys were on the finale of The Celebrity Apprentice...because people on a national scale could witness how insanely awful they were and put the spotlight on the more deserved musical institution that NKOTB is!!

They have been working on new music and I will have it the day it's released to the public!! Now, I need to either start a petition or send a memo to *NSync and get them on the bandwagon and my life will be, quite possibly, in the most wonderful place it's ever been:) Back in Boy Band Mecca - like it should be!!

Check out this video from People.com...it's wonderment.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 03:10:00 +0000

found at www.someecards.com

I know it's a little late in the day...but better late than never! Hope you all had a great day...and several to many beers!!!

What once was "lost" has now been FOUND!

noreply@blogger.com (Mo) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 22:39:00 +0000

Today is a "Lost" day...but that's not what I'm referring to! Not even in response to Ben's maniacal, devious, miserable, despicable taping over of the Red Sox winning the World Series in '04! Bastard!

Since I've moved I've made it a "goal" to unpack at least a box or two a day. Yesterday I put my living room tables together...that was a treat. The trash guys are going to loooove me! Outside my door is a waist high pile o' cardboard and two trashbags filled with bubble wrap and styrofoam. Actually...Al Gore is probably on his way over with some thugs as I type.

At any rate, I was going through some of the boxes and weeding through items which are random in nature and basically of no use. However, I know as soon as I throw something away I'll probably need it. Dear Diary, this is the true confession of a hoarding pack rat! Now, when I left Saint A's several years ago...I got to the end of the packing process and made the "effit" rule. Rather than be organized and have some sense to my packing...the "effit" rule allowed me to just pitch stuff in boxes and get on with my day. I taught my mother the "effit" rule and she packed my desk according to the by-laws of said rule. Now, on my desk, with the intentions to be put in a place I could actually find it...was my Disney Hopper Pass. Those who are "in the know" about the Disney Theme Parks know that these kids are not cheap. You can hit the Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM) like *NSync did...or check out the newly refurbished "Pirates of the Caribbean" ride featuring Cap'n Jack. What ever you want...it's all part of the "hopper" experience! Thankfully they don't expire, so you can go to Disney any time you get the inkling...provided you know where the DHP is! For the past 3 years...I have not had a clue where the DHP was! Come on...were you really surprised? That's the downfall of the "effit" rule! Well kids, today...in a box filled with 5 empty CD cases...pictures of my famous trip to "Cananada," pictures of my college graduation...and I'm not even making this up...a cassette tape of New Kids on the Block...I found my precious ticket!!

You don't believe me about the New Kids thing do you...well here...

It is what it is kids...didn't I blow your mind? If you didn't get that then you aren't paying attention and you must be slapped.

Now, as an extra special fun treat...here are some pictures of my living room furniture...very comfy! Not the glass tables...those aren't comfortable...but the couch and recliner are:) I apologize for the quality of the photos...even with the lamps it seemed a little dark...and the glass reflections did some weird things...but I'm not in it for the art of it folks...I'm just showing you my gear. The couch and the recliner are a microfiber suede something or other material...the tables are glass...and the lamps are lampy. The pillows came with the set...but I like the chocolate brown of the couch and chair because it's neutral so I can change the accent color of the room whenever I feel like it.

So that's it for now...have a happy Lost (and found!) day!!!