Googling myself

I just googled myself. You should google yourself if you haven't. Or google a friend. Anyway, several links came up...an article Kari wrote about me, some articles I wrote when I was in West Africa, some strange directory called "Zoom" where I see 3 other Itschners (perhaps distant cousins?), The Village home groups list, and then I saw a link through my blog...it said, "I love this woman..." I thought WHAT?! So I click on it. If you scroll through it (which most readers won't, I assume), I wrote a post and put a pic of me & Grandma up with the caption "I love this woman." However, this is NOT the one sentence from my blog I was hoping Google search would pick up. Not sure what I can do about it...but in case you had decided to google me and found that particular link, I wanted to set your mind at ease. I heart men. Period.

Evil friend...

So, I have this problem. I love running outside, but I'm extremely picky about the weather conditions in which I will do so. Basically, it must be 72.6 degrees with no wind whatsoever. The problem, of course, is that there are pretty much 2.3 days per year in which my weather specifications will allow me to enjoy a good outdoor run.

Last year, it was during the summer when triple digits were the norm, that I went to Academy and bought a jump rope. Budget-friendly at $5.00, weather-friendly as an indoor activity thanks to the high ceilings in my apartment, and boredom-friendly as I could jump to a Friends or Gilmore Girls episode (or Grey's Anatomy, which was my newest poison of choice), the jump rope was my friend.

This year, I have a couple of new friends. Last Thursday, I ventured to Sport Authority (the Academy-version in Denton) where I purchased one of those little round trampolines, a Pilates DVD, and a Pilates mat. I've heard wonderful (and painful) stories about Pilates and how it "really, really works" from numerous people. Supposedly, the trampoline is a very good workout as well. These new friends are only budget-friendly for those who consider the CPU (cost per use, which makes the item relatively cheap if it's good quality), but both are weather-friendly and the tramp(oline) is boredom-friendly.

Last night, one of my new friends transformed into a violent weapon of mass destruction. I was ready for bed, so I turned off the living room light switch, which is strategically placed next to the front door and opposite my bedroom. I have the tramp(oline) set up behind my couch for easy Gilmore or Friends viewing whilst I jump. I forgot about this nifty set-up when I turned off the living room light to go to bed. In crossing my living room, my right ankle nailed the tramp(oline)--owie #1--and sent me flying forward. My right knee squarely hit the hardest metal of the tramp(oline)--owie #2. Thankfully, my instincts kicked in and my hands kept me from hitting my face on anything dangerous--owie #3. Today my left foot (how did the left foot get hurt?) is scraped and my right knee is swelling and killing me slowly.

I am deciding on the best punishment for my friend-turned-weapon. Throw the tramp(oline) in the dumpster to show it can't win and remind it that I have a Pilates DVD that loves me and would never try to kill me? Should I just jump really hard on the tramp(oline) in an attempt to beat the evil out?

Killing lots of birds with one blog...

I've been lazy with posting lately, so this is going to make up some lost time...enjoy!


Look out, Kari & Amy! Since you like to cook so much, I may decide to get you one of these oh-so-fashionable turkey aprons from Cracker Barrel for Christmas! (Specifically, note the turkey legs dangling...totally makes it worth the $14.95.)

God has graciously blessed me with great community since I moved to Denton. I have been given the opportunity to lead a home group through my church, The Village. These girls are amazing!

My home group girls--Top L-R: Linda, Michelle, Kelsey, Bianca, Jordan & Sara; Bottom L-R: Me, Kristen, Robin, Colleen, & Rikki (Never mind the fact that this is 2 weeks old and completely outdated--God is growing our group each week!)

My community from home--it was so good to see them again when I was home for Thanksgiving!

Traditional dinner at Chili's with the girls; L-R: Amy, me, Chrissy, Christine & Caryn

First Annual Wilbert Goes to Work/College Day

My co-worker, Nancy, LOVES Wilbert and said I should bring him to work one day. After getting the ok from Marian, my supervisor, Wilbert was cleared for college. So, you will be able to 1) Meet my co-workers, 2) See my office (finally!), and 3) See more cute pics of Wilbert...am I efficient or what?


My office--The Mocha Coffee Shop


Another view of The Mocha


Wilbert & Debbie, one of the other advisors


Wilbert & Nancy, another advisor & also his caretaker when I have to be out of town


Wilbert & Lynne, our administrative assistant (and general lifesaver!)


Wilbert & Lana, our secretary...we are constantly laughing at each other (I think the student in this pic probably thought we were all crazy.)


Wilbert & Marla, one of our student workers...she's from the Valley, just south of Corpus Christi, so we've bonded nicely


Wilbert & Susanne, the other advisor


My little advisor


Wilbert & my dad…they’ve bonded; I know it doesn’t fit with the Office theme, but it does fit with the Wilbert theme

Wintry Mix

Yesterday at this time, I was wearing a 3/4 sleeve button-up in the 77 degree sunny weather. At about 5pm yesterday, I left the dry cleaners thinking how warm it was. When I got out of my car at 5:30pm, the "wintry mix" that had been forecasted arrived. By 7pm, it was 35 degrees. That's right, the temperature dropped nearly 50 degrees in 2 hours. At 10 am the next day, it's now 28 degrees and falling. It's sleeting outside and should be snowing noon-5pm. :)

I love winter, probably because having spent 25 of 28 years in either South TX or Africa, winter is a fairy tale phenomenon in my head. I love cold weather. The scarves, the coats, the fire going, the Christmas decor, good movies or music playing, and hot cocoa. Love it.


Wilbert's winter wardrobe...I said I'd never do it. Wilbert is a dog and I have a firm belief he should be treated as such. However, he does have to go outside to take care of business, and I decided he can have one sweater when we walk in the below freezing temperatures. He's done okay with it so far. He hasn't tried to take it off at all, which is pretty amazing. However, he walks and then sits. Walks and then sits. Walks and then sits. He's never done that before so I'm not sure if it correlates with the new sweater or not. At any rate, he's once again dang cute.


My coche iced down

More than you ever wanted to know...

I've been getting harassed for not posting in awhile, so here will be more than enough to satisfy those who just can't get enough of Pegs. :) Awhile back, Kari sent me a "20 Questions" that I could use as a blog post, so here goes:

1. What is your job and what are your responsibilities?

I am an academic advisor in the School of Visual Arts at the University of North Texas. This means, I see on average 6-7 students per day across all 13 art programs. Some are just in to schedule classes, some need GPA help, some are just plain confused about life, and some are graduating (these may be and are often likely the same ones who are confused about life). I also process degree plans and represent SOVA at recruiting events. Other things I've found myself doing include being on a search committee for a new position and serving as staff advisor for a student organization.

2. What are your goals/dream job?

I'm still working on figuring this out. I have more than contemplated pursuing a doctorate in higher education because the field just fascinates me. I would like to work in admissions at some point, and am also interested in writing about educational issues.

3. How did you feel about moving to Denton?

I have been in Denton for six months now. I was excited about a new location and a new job opportunity. I knew I wanted to work in a large, public research university and the job at UNT has given me that needed experience. I also love North Texas--there is always something to do here! I love being near DFW and all the Metroplex offers.

4. What writing projects do you have going?

I was working on The Broken Road, which chronicles my experiences with the opposite sex. That is pretty much finished. Well, not finished...it won't be finished until/if I am married, I suppose. But it's "caught up." Email me if you are curious.

The other project I've been working on is Memoir d'Afrique, which follows my two-year journey in Africa. It is just in the beginning stages so don't expect this one out on shelves anytime soon...although I do dream of having it published. May be a pipe dream, but it's a dream all the same. There are several travel essays that follow expat Americans in other countries and Peace Corps workers, but I've yet to see one published by a journeyman/missionary.

5. When did you become a Christian?

I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was 14 years old at a youth camp. Not a "bad kid" to begin with, there wasn't much to change externally (i.e. sneaking out, drugs & drinking, etc) but there was an internal 180. My life is devoted to Christ and following Him.

6. Tell us about your famous muffins, and can we have the recipe?

I have no famous muffins. I do not know why Kari wanted me to post this question. She could be referring to one of two things here: 1) I used to make muffins for the students at the school I worked at in Corpus each Thursday. These are not mine and they are not famous...they are Betty Crocker. 2) I used to go to a little place called "My Favorite Muffin" each Tues & Thurs. This started with my friend Jessica and when she moved, I picked it up with Beth & Katy, 2 of the best mentors a girl struggling through life in her 20s could ask for. Again, these are not mine and not quite "famous"...though they should be.

7. Where is your favorite place in the world?

This is hard. Capetown, South Africa is hands-down the most beautiful place in the world. I absolutely loved it and would love to go back. I have a romantic attachment to New York City...the city has its own culture. I also love Senegal, where I lived for just 10 months, thought it seems like so much longer. The Senegalese people are unique and lovely.

8. What made you decide to get Wilbert?

I had lived alone for 3 years. I wanted a pet that I could snuggle with and keep me company and I'm deathly allergic to cats. When I decided to move to Denton, I started dog-hunting. I wanted a Westie, but found out they are ridiculously expensive and you have to get on a waiting list. So I went to the Humane Society. One look at Wilbert and I was done.

9. How did you wind up in Africa?

Kari, honestly...this post is going to be too long. I was on my way to seminary at Southwestern Baptist Theol in Fort Worth back in 2001 to do counseling. Then, my roommate and living situation fell through just a week before I was to move. I got a letter from the IMB accepting my application to the journeyman program and the rest is history. I'd gone to Africa twice in college (Namibia, South Africa and Uganda, East Africa) and when jobs were not available in those areas at matching conference, I took a position in West Africa. My heart has always been for Africa.

10. Whom are you named after?

My dad's favorite aunt, Peggy. She died of polio in her mid-30s. Though you should know...I was VERY close to being named Lisa by my mom...then my dad walked in the room. Do you think I look like a Lisa?

11. Tell us about your House Group.

Home group is what they call them. I go to a church called The Village (www.thevillagechurch.net). It's an amazing place. God has changed my life since being here. After completing grad school, I began to pray for an opportunity to serve since I had all this new free time. My first home group became too big and needed to split. There was obviously a need for a group for post-college (since Denton has 2 colleges, it's swarming with groups for college students) single women. We started about 6 weeks ago and have grown from 5-14! I'd say it's meeting a need.

12. In what ways to do you want to be like your mom?

My mom was a fighter. When she wanted something, she went after it. I hope I don't ever settle. She was also extremely loyal.

13. What movie character do you identify with most?

Interesting. In Senegal, Kari, Kate & I said we were like Charlie's Angels (the movie) with me being like Drew Barrymore's character. Full of "fayda" as they say in Senegal...which means independent, takes care of herself, etc. Some days I feel like I really identify with Bridget Jones though. :)

14. When have you seen GOD move?

When I look at my life, it's obvious He's been orchestrating it all along. Each thing that comes along just fits like a puzzle piece. It makes me love Him more and more. Something that sticks out is all the car accidents I've had...there is no way I should not have been seriously injured/killed by now. God's hand.

15. What is the most memorable conversation you've had with your Grandma?

Not really a conversation, but I will always remember her 84th birthday (2005). I bought her flowers, brought her favorite "caldo" from Kiko's Mexican restaurant, made the muffins she loves, and took her to a CC Hooks baseball game. You know, old people can get away with anything and everyone just smiles. While at the game, we were sitting between a middle-aged couple and a couple of guys about my age. I'd bought a funnel cake for us to share, which was covered with powdered sugar of course. Well, if you know the Corpus Christi wind, you can imagine what happened with the powdered sugar. It blew ALL over the man next to Grandma. She smiled sweetly up at him and apologized and the couple just laughed. Incidentally, her hearing is slightly altered (though still doing remarkably well) and she shouted to me about how cute the guy next to me was...oh.my.word. I did think I might die there on the spot. I don't know if he heard b/c I definitely did NOT look at him, but I don't know how he wouldn't have heard her! Still, I love my Aama.

16. What's the best meal you've ever had?

There is no way to answer this...I love food too much. :) My mom used to make this amazing spaghetti. She'd cook the sauce all day in the crockpot and it had this unbelievable cheesy flavor. I think that was my favorite.

17. Which authors inspire you most?

I love Donald Miller. He's so honest and says things I was always afraid to say as a Christian. I also really like Philip Yancey. Lately, Alexandra Robbins is my favorite. See www.alexandrarobbins.com for more.

18. What do you appreciate most about where you are in life?

Independence. I complain frequently about being single, but if I'd married straight out of college like I wanted to, I wouldn't have been able to experience Africa, which changed my life. I wouldn't be able to up & travel anytime I want (like last Christmas to France or this Christmas to New Orleans). I enjoy knowing that I can make it on my own.

19. What have you learned in the past year?

Last year at this time, I was frustrated with my job and living situation. I was a pretty miserable person to be around and didn't understand why God wouldn't just answer my prayers and uproot me out of there. I was also just coming out of a time where I didn't know if I believed in God at all. Sooooooo...this year, I have learned that I do believe in God very much. I believe that the Father created the world, the Son came down and died for my sins and rose again so that I could live with Him forever, and that the Spirit abides in me eternally. Because I believe those things, I also know that His timing was perfect in uprooting me from Corpus at just the right time. I have a more broad (some say liberal) view of God's will now...that it's not just about making a right or wrong decision (do I go to Seattle for a doctorate or go to Denton and work?) but a decision to honor God with the opportunities He gives me.

20.How can we pray for you?

This is general, but lately, I have sensed God is working on me internally--changing my heart, making me moldable (I am the clay, not the Potter after all). So I have been praying for the fruit of the Spirit to take hold inwardly and in that, it will pour out...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I think the 3 key ones right now are love, patience and gentleness.

Quarterlife Crisis

I've started a book called Conquering Your Quarterlife Crisis by Alexandra Robbins. She is my new favorite author and you can see more of her writings at www.alexandrarobbins.com.

So, the introduction states 6 indicators that one is going through a quarterlife crisis, defined as a response to the transition from young adulthood to adulthood where one is plagued by intense identity issues resulting in a range of reactions from self-doubt to serious bouts of depression, with the nagging question of "Is this all there is?"

The indicators of the quarterlife crisis are:
1. You don't know what you want.
2. Your 20s aren't what you expected.
3. You have a fear of failure.
4. You can't let go of childhood.
5. You waffle over decisions.
6. You constantly compare (yourself to peers and feel you come up short).

So, I'm guessing the fact that I struggle with all except #4 means that I'm in a quarterlife crisis. #5 & #6 are particularly evident in my life, and those who know me even halfway well aren't surprised to hear this.

Some questions the book tackles (the parentheses are my commentary):
--What if I don't know what I want? (The eternal question.)
--When do I let go of my dream? (After I answer question #1.)
--How do I know if I'm dating The One? (I love that she capitalizes it.)
--Why am I having trouble meeting people? (Seriously.)
--How do I weigh doing something I love vs. making money? (A girl's gotta eat.)
--What if I want to completely change direction in my career? (Oy, the time...the money...)
--Why is it so hard to live alone? (As great as Wilbert is, conversation tends to lag, and I'm getting more selfish by the hour.)
--How do I stop comparing myself to other people? (Another wedding, another baby shower, another housewarming...)
--When will I stop feeling afraid and start looking forward to growing older? (30 is approximately 1 year, 6 months, 1 week, and 23 hours away...approximately.)

I don't mean to make everyone wonder if I'm depressed. I'm not. I actually am quite okay with life right now, probably b/c I realize that my questions are normal. But I do ask these types of questions. So, I'm pretty excited about the rest of this book. I think God has some things to teach me. Anyone else in a quarterlife crisis?

Torrential Downpour...In My Car

It's been awhile since I've shared a good Wilbert story...well, this is only quasi-Wilbert, but he is in it, so...

I got back from Oklahoma last weekend at about 1:00 a.m. I unloaded my car in the drizzling rain and fell into bed. Torrential rain fell all night and the storms kept waking me up. The next morning a little before noon (11 hours later for you math geniuses), I went to my car so I could make the trip to Fort Worth to pick up Wilbert.

I walked toward my car and could not believe my eyes. My driver's side door was open. No, folks. Not the window. The DOOR.

I wondered if someone had tried to steal the car and had been unsuccessful. Since I have moved to Denton, I have received several notes from the apartment management about assaults and car theft (not to mention my laundry theft incident, which they did NOT report to the rest of the apartment community--I was miffed). So you can imagine my thoughts as I approached my car.

I'm not altogether sure, but I think this is what happened: 1) I went around to the passenger side to finish unloading the car. 2) I took the trash to the nearby dumpster. 3) I did NOT return to the driver's side to close the door.

Like I said, there were torrential downpours the entire night. My car was soaked. It now smells absolutely disgusting. I don't think Wilbert was very happy when I picked him up. He crinkled his nose and buried his face. Poor Wilbert. Here's my bone to pick: Little boys steal my laundry. But, when I leave my car door wide open, not one thing is missing from my car. Are you kidding me?

In other news...

Those of you who have known me for any amount of time know that I have had this awful nail biting habit since the womb.

I hope I'm not jinxing myself, but I think I have broken the 28 year old habit. I have had triumphant moments before where I thought I conquered this issue...only to find that "The Bourne Identity" or some nerve-wracking event destroyed me.

However, this time, I believe I have won. I have gorgeous nails that are all mine. This may be a little gross for those of you who have issues with touching your eyes, but the major sign of my victory is that my nails are long enough that I now have to slide my contacts out instead of simply pulling them. A strange way to measure success, granted...but it works!

The Greenwood-Miller Wedding

This weekend, I had the privilege of being a bridesmaid in Robin's wedding in Norman, OK. Here are some highlights:

For all you Project Runway fans out there, you will recognize Kayne in this picture. Kayne's business is in Norman, and he designed our bridemaid dresses (which you'll see in the pictures to follow).


This picture is a bit tangential from the wedding, but this is Sally, Heather's dog. Sally's tongue is too long to fit in her mouth so it constantly hangs out like this. Hands down, one of the funniest things I've ever seen.


Here's Kayne's dress...and me & Robin before the wedding.


For the 3rd time in a month, I've gotten to reunite with my West Africa friends. Here are Bill & Shirley Nolte, who served as the guesthouse coordinators on my team in Mali. (Yes, I borrowed a tux coat to stay warm in the below-strapless-dress weather we had.)


This is what the ladies do before the wedding!


I love this part...so classy!


Saying goodbye to Mr. & Mrs. Joel Miller...and when I say goodbye, I mean goodbye. Joel has a job out in California, so Robin is no longer a 2 hour drive away. :(


And for those who are curious about the bouquet toss, my least favorite part of the entire wedding process where it is tradition to make the single women feel very single and provoke a catfight, I will tell you that NONE of the women went for the bouquet. It landed squarely at my feet, so the consensus was that I "caught" the bouquet. I disagree. The photographer took a picture of the ladies' feet with the bouquet on the ground.

And finally, I could not have a post from Oklahoma without mocking the state in some way. Soooooo...what message is this combo automotive/liquor store in Chickasha, Oklahoma trying to convey? Drink & Drive?

Lately, I have been told that I am...

These aren't all exactly positive, but I thought it was interesting to mull over the impression I've left with various people lately:

fantastic
lovely
hilarious
too much (whatever that means)
punctual
a great friend
emotional
too romantic
a little wierd
talented
smart
quick (as in quick-witted...not so much with the running skills)
tall
not too tall (same person as "tall"...they were backpedaling)
a great conversationalist (I prefer the term "conversational wizard"; however, that wasn't the term used)
too organized
open
realistic
a little unrealistic
soft-hearted

So, what do you say?

I also found this pic of me and Aama from last Thanksgiving...it's my favorite pic of us ever. I love this woman.

the last couple of weeks...

West Africa Reunion--Tim & Kate visited DFW before going back to Senegal, so the Whipples (our neighbors in Senegal) and Jenn (another journeyman in Senegal) all had a reunion. Here we are...back row: Tim, Kate, Karley (littlest Whipple), Jenn, Denise; front row: Me, Dakotah (middle Whipple) & Noah (oldest Whipple); Not pictured: Seth, who is taking the picture


Me & Kate--3 years & 18 days after I left Africa, Kate and I were reunited. We were roommates and teammates in Senegal, working on the media team. Kate is about to go back to Senegal with her husband, Tim, to do discipleship ministry with Lebou believers.

The Dallas Mavericks, the 2006 NBA Western Division Champs, had their Pre-season Spring Training here at UNT last week. To thank the school, the Mavs had a scrimmage on Friday that was free for all current UNT faculty, staff, and students. Here are some pics:




Harris and one of the rookies, whose real name is JJ but he's from Puerto Rico so we started calling him "Rico"...when I say "we," I mean me & my friend, Jordan...10 minutes later, the other side of the crowd started cheering for Rico. So when he is called Rico next season, keep in mind that Jordan & I started that.


Diop, the Senegalese Maverick, taking a shot (really annoying--they pronounce it so it rhymes with "shop" when the correct Wolof should be pronounced to rhyme with "rope)


Dampier (25) & Terry (31)--Honestly, I have a crush on Jason Terry :)


Towards the end of the scrimmage, Terry tried to get the crowd going by running around with his shoe off, acting like he would throw it into the crowd. Obviously, this caused mayhem. At the end, Terry and Nowitski actually did throw their shoes into the crowd. I didn't get one. :(

I had a special treat today. :) Tiffany was a fellow journeyman in West Africa. She lived in a hut in Burkina Faso for 2 years, ministering to the Marense people. Tiff is one awesome girl. She's living in Mississippi now, but was in Dallas for a conference. I love living here--I'm seeing old friends I wouldn't have seen if I was still in Corpus. :)

Tiffany & Me

disappointment, hope and worship

I was disappointed this week. The cure for disappointment is hope in the eternal Father, Son and Spirit, for "hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Hope is manifested in worship.

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -- Romans 15:13

Hope is manifested in worship.

Worship in song. Finding new harmonies. Praise.

Worship in nature. The sun breaking through a cloud formation.

Worship in written expression. Telling a story. Telling His story.

Worship in community. Authentic sharing of life.

Worship in missional living. Sharing Him with a co-worker.

Worship in service. Showing nursery babies love.

Worship in Scripture meditation. Allowing Truth to abide in me.

Worship in prayer. Coming near to the throne of grace.

My hope in Him has been manifested in these offerings of worship this week.

Another list...but some pictures too :)

Due to the fact that I have no appointments today (are you kidding me? What is THAT about?), I decided to post about the non-stop weekend I just had. Also, at the request of someone (who will remain nameless) who likes my lists (or just likes mocking them), I will process the weekend in traditional Pegs form. I wasn't so swift at coming up with a list on the fly, so hopefully the time processed will produce a quality list. :) So, here's the latest list...as usual, in no particular order:

10. The waiter who thought he could sing but in fact could NOT...and the blessed birthday girl who also thought he could sing so she had him sing to her TWICE
9. Seeing one of my fellow bridesmaids in "Oliver" at the Sooner Community Theatre--Heather was excellent!
8. Being treated to dinner at someone's favorite restaurant--there's nothing that makes you feel special like being taken to a favorite (and Avocado Enchiladas-yum!)
7. Embarrassing the mess out of Robin at her "personal shower" :) Really, though, let's call a spade a spade-it was a lingerie shower
6. Feeling incredibly loved-I think I had about 20 voicemails on my phone over 2 days, and used about 1000 minutes--thank goodness for unlimited weekends!
5. Meeting people I've heard about for 5 years--Jenny & Jacob totally surpassed all expectations
4. Going to IHOP in the middle of the night--really, is there anything better?
3. Seeing (and definitely hearing) a girl run smack into a glass door at a really nice hotel--classic
2. Gas for $2.03--the best thing I've found in Oklahoma to date!
1. Living life--taking chances, meeting new people, and accepting God's blessings as they come!


The Bridesmaids (sans Rachel): Me, Heather, Robin (the bride) and Jenny (the MOH)


Congrats to Robin & Joel (excuse the glare, the front door was open)


Me & Robin


Jenny & Robin at the "personal shower"--Let the humiliation begin! :)

What I Love about North Texas...3 months later

Back on June 2nd, I wrote a top ten about what I love about Denton. I had lived here for about 2 weeks. Now that it's been about 3.5 months, I would like to slightly revise my list...I expanded it from Denton to North Texas, and you'll see why. In no particular order, except it came to my head:

10. The Village Church--I found a place to belong!
9. My home group from the church--lovely ladies
8. La Madeleine (still makes the list, best restaurant)
7. Location, location, location (All my bridesmaidly duties for Robin's wedding in Oklahoma are within a 2 hour drive instead of a 3 hour flight! Also a weekend trip to Austin to see Josh & Amy is totally do-able.)
6. The Greenhouse Restaurant (ah...love those sweet potato fries)
5. The Square (see my post from late July called A Little Piece of Home)
4. My office--has been painted and new artwork hung...I LOVE how it turned out. We call it "The Mocha Coffee Shop" b/c of the colors and the atmosphere I created (pics are forthcoming)
3. Recycled Books--wonderful old bookstore on the Square
2. The feeling of being far from home...but not really :)
1. It's exactly where I'm supposed to be.

Stolen laundry and Victoria's Secret

Two weekends ago (I'm running behind), I spent a lovely Saturday evening on a date with a fabulous man...just kidding. I spent the evening doing 2 very full loads of laundry. When I went to get them out of the dryer at the exact time they should have been finished, I found the dryers empty! Someone stole my laundry! (But kindly left my empty laundry basket.) Are you KIDDING me? First of all...gross. Second of all...I'm not one to talk, doing laundry on a Saturday night, but really...get a life.

My theory is as follows...when I had gone to change the loads from the washers to the dryers, there were these 2 little boys in there--about 8 & 10--just the right age to think stealing someone's laundry would be hilarious. Hmph. My theory is that those two kids stole it. For what reason, other than pure entertainment, I do not know.

Well, without getting TMI on you, I'll just say that pretty much every pair of undies I own was in one of those loads. Thus, a trip to Victoria's Secret was necessary the next day.

Those of you who know me well know that Vic's is not my favorite place, usually because you can find very uncomfortable men hanging out along the walls trying to be inconspicuous while their wives/girlfriends/sisters search the store. Have you ever noticed they usually put a "man's store" next to Vic's? For example, in Denton, Radioshack is within visual distance. My other theory from this weekend is that if the man isn't in the store specifically to buy something for that wonderful woman in his life, he needs to go to Radioshack.

Because, searching the piles of undies for my size and style whilst a man is standing against the wall two feet away (or maybe one foot) was the most awkward thing I've done in awhile. I almost asked the man, "Are you sure you don't need something from Radioshack?"

In fact, it only fueled my fire to be more ticked off that my laundry was stolen in the first place.

Keep Austin Wierd

I learned this ATX phrase when I visited the capital of Texas last weekend. Josh & Amy just moved there to start Josh's MBA program at UT. My prior experience with Austin involved getting there late evening, staying at a friend's house, and leaving early morning for Dallas. Due to this, my experience with Austin was limited to I35's INSANE traffic jams, causing great distaste, dislike, and disdain for all things Austin. However, contrary to my opinion, Austin proved to be a unique, fun and crazy place that I actually really enjoyed. So, my opinion has been revised and my new advice is to visit Austin if at all possible. :) Here are some highlights:


If you go to the Hula Hut and decide to order the "Tubular Taco" you might consider sharing it with someone


I found this hottie at the Hula Hut, a must-do restaurant in Austin


Out of the goodness of my heart, I decided to share Mr. Statue with Ames (shh...don't tell Josh)


Pegs & Ames at UT


Friends from high school who also happen to live in Austin


Pegs & Brooklyn, Tara's daughter


The Capitol Building


Ames & Pegs get their pose on before salsa dancing

A little piece of home...

Christine came to visit this week! We had a great time catching up, and I got to show her around Denton a bit. Here are some highlights:


Christine & Wilbert are reunited after months apart...this is Wilbert's favorite napping position. Seriously, he'll just stay like that. He's a wierd dog. Upon closer inspection, he looks bat-like...but I can't get Blogger to upload that photo so you'll have to use your imagination.


If you come to Denton, I'll take you to "The Square." It's downtown and sooooo cute, with fun little eateries and quaint shops. They turn on twinkle lights at night and it's beautiful. So, after eating dinner at The Greenhouse (my favorite restaurant in Denton...again, if you visit, I'll take you and even treat--so you should come visit), Christine & I played on the Square.


First stop on the square--Jammin' Jeans. This place sells name brands for REALLY cheap. This Guess skirt was $10. I will be going back. Note the price tag on the skirt...after thinking about stealing it, I decided I could afford the $10 so I bagged my jeans (you know, since it's 106 degrees outside) and wore it out. I love wearing new clothes out of the store.


We found this great used bookstore. They buy and sell old books, cds, videos, record albums, dvds, whatever. I have no idea what the name of it is, because it was located in a purple building that said Opry House on the outside. Fabulous.


Christine & I paint the town...and I need to learn new slang


Beth Marie's, the best ice cream in Denton