Cross it off the list

Watch a movie alone.

It is was on my list of things to get done.  Granted, it was on my list of things to get done back in 2006, but it's better late than never, right?  I woke up early yesterday and went to Tower Theater to see Crazy Heart.  I remembered how much I love legit country music and I have a new love for watching movies by myself.

I still have a few things on my list that I need to get done.  I'll be crossing another off the list in a little less than 30 minutes.  I'll be riding my bicycle during the day downtown.  I'm such a klutz I've been apprehensive about riding downtown.  I worry about falling off or getting hit by a car.  I should get a helmet!!!!

Grandma's getting younger

G-ma had her birthday today.  Sunday most of the family drove up to Oroville to start the pre-partying.  I got to see most my cousins and G-ma was more excited and happy than I have seen her in a long time.  She was absolutely glowing.

My grandma is amazing.

No one likes a bummed Rijel

Including me.  Which is why every time I feel it coming on, I try to fix it immediately!!!

Things that make me happy:

 Family

 More family

Love

Donk Magazine

Rhino vs. Donk

Pigs

Food

Coffee AKA Mocha

And amazing sunsets.

After surgery amazingness pt. 2

RIJEL!!!!
How was surgery?

I miss you.

Here's a shapeshifyer on the kooseand they're gonna get me

Hahahahaha! That's hilarious! Miss you!

Why aren't you online? Iow do j hey my grutxhes?

I will go online later, and I bet you're feeling really good!

U have a double chin and I can see it

I'm trying to cdeod chat with Brandon

And I can see hmthr I have like 5 chins

It's awful

Ummm. Idinnoif baand is bringing myceitches

Whaaaaat???

I nee crutcheshbbbbbbn

Oh crutches!

That's what I sad!!!!

I need to Take off thisprotectiln. ISA yyo smell your face.

Reallyehat?!?!?!?!

Not drunk on alcohol!!!!!

Risky from the mess!

Horatio cane is the worst. They bneed to take him off tv. Andhustjeave is glasses o

His look is the worry that's why I had to change it. Supernatural now. With a gin and 7th heaven

I heart Jessica Beil.

She is a babe shedid JT and got naked in a movie sorry of

Yeah. Hot.

Yeah. Of I were a boy I'd thru to slide it in for sire.

Me too! Lol  How's your knee?

It's phat. Pretty hot and tempting.

I need totals this dumb xcreenprotectoroff it's awful

I think Brandin needs to bring me myceitches

Nice. Are you done now? Or do you go back in again?

Mom says one more. Dad says he didn't say that. I don't rmemeber taking to anyone except the angel that maenads me tea

NY eyes are heavy

But tv is on. Howdi I resist that !?!!????

I bet! Lol get some rest dork.

Is itcause you tole her to eat a dick? 

And now she's hungry?

uiour'43 supposed to be my sebt friend

i have a aawlker only
and it sucks
i'm not 893452 years old
why the fuck do i need a walker?!???!?!?!?!?!

i need pinecones
cun you bring my brutches

you whine
you're hte wordst


i thought your dad took your internet away!

he tried
i condtested
and said
no white man
i lose the interet
you lsoe the stach


supernatural was on
an i think the shapeshifter
stole my mom's body

Rant.

I don't understand how difficult it is for people to answer a simple question.  When I ask you, "What is your address?"  Please don't tell me some back story about how you know your mom's aunt's daughter's brother might have been the one to leave you a voicemail.

How fucking hard is it for you to actually take the 6 seconds and listen to the question I'm asking so that you may respond correctly?  Oh that's right.  You like the sound of your own voice far too much to shut your trap so I can help you.  If that's the case...THERE'S THE FUCKING DOOR.

Stupid blog via email

Apparently all the text I tried to upload along with that picture of
Brandon didn't go through. Now I just look like a super creeper
posting a photo of him AS my entire blog post. Not that I'm NOT a
creep lurker...just not on Brandon.

Anyway...we're in Idaho. The place we stayed last night was mad swank
and pretty legit. All modern vintage appeal and a creepy bathroom door
that would have been amazing under COMPLETELY different circumstances.

After coffee, we're headed back to California in my car, which looks
amazing and brand new. The guy who owned the body shop was a major
sweetheart and totally awesome. We've driven a little over 70 miles
around Boise since I got it back and things seem in perfect working
order so far. Hopefully it'll maintain that once we get on the freeway
headed home.

Idaho!!!

Shoes.

I've got a small problem.  I like shoes.  A lot.  And these are my new lust.  I also just found them on sale.  But not in my size.  I think that's a sign I don't actually need them.

Too bad all that means is that I'll be looking all over the interwebz to find them in my size at the same price.

One more reason my mother is amazing

Surgery on Friday, back to work tomorrow (Monday).

Yesterday, I realize I don't have anything that will be comfortable to wear to work.  I bring it up to Jeannie Mae to see if she has any khaki or black skirts I can wear (since I'll have to be in "uniform").  She doesn't.

So what's this saint do?  She goes out and buys khaki material.  What is she doing right now?  Making me skirts to wear to work.  She is a dream boat.  And one of the most wonderful people I have ever had the pleasure of having in my life.

6 down, 1 to go!!!!

I got out of surgery Friday feeling pretty good.  I only threw up twice all day (total score) and even had visitors!  Jeannie Mae talked to the doctor and apparently my cartilage grew too well and that's why my knee was catching.  This was the BEST case scenario.

What does that mean?  That means I've only one more surgery to go to be completely 100% good again!!!!  The next surgery will just be an exploratory to make sure everything is all gravy.  I was up and walking today and things felt pretty good as far as stability goes. 

How random is 2010 so far.  Yeah, it's a statement, not a question.  From my surgery, to other people's surgeries, my car sitch, people's babies comin' through and hearing about my friend getting stabbed...things are a little crazy this year.  I think I've maintained a pretty positive attitude about everything though.  I don't think I've let the worst get the best of me and I'm going to try to keep the trend going.

I've also switched from Safari to Firefox...and am lacking a couple shortcuts.  I'm trying to get used to it, but I might have to go back based on these little things.  Then again...having these extra shortcuts are pretty sweet too.  I'm keeping an open mind about it, but I'll see how that goes.

I also need to upload a few photos I've taken.  I should really start taking pictures again, so that silly flickr account doesn't go to waste.

Robots

I got mine.  I have not taken pictures of them because I'm reh-tahded, but probably will soon.

I haven't been updating as much as I'd like...or should.  I think this thing helps keep me somewhat sane and on a positive mental status.  I'm thinking of taking on yet another project, but I'll have to see how I can even fit it in my schedule as it is.  I still have 2k9 Christmas gifts to finish (yeah...really).

The 19th is creeping up fast.  I'm hardly worried about it; it seems all too routine.

2010 is bringing a lot of difficult things to the table and I'm trying my best to get by without too many pity parties.  If anything, I think I'm going to keep them to once a month at MOST.  Luckily the way I rung in the new year seems to have been the best possible thing for me.  I NEED to get back to hanging out and back to my sociable self; this ish is ridic.

I also need to stop reading silly blogs that I misconstrue into a selfish manner and make excerpts in the post partially about myself.  Then again...maybe not.  I like drama sometimes...especially when it's not quiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiite my own.  After all, I'm still a girl.

This hair style...

apparently attracts compliments as well as men, women, men dressed as women and women dressed as men.

Tonight was no different.  Remember my dear friend Bryce?  If not...here's a reference photo:

Take careful notice of his upper lip.  Wait.  What do you mean you can't see it?  Oh, yeah...it's covered by a GIGANTIC mustache!!

Tonight I met up with Bryce downtown to watch a couple bands play.  In between bands we were talking, like most people do between bands and the next thing I know I feel a hand on my lower back kind of hugging me and squeezing me.  I didn't freak out, I kind of figured it was someone I knew and I just hadn't seen them at the show yet.

I look over to see someone about my height with a little smaller frame wearing a white plaid Kangol style hat, a dark gray/blue jacket over a light gray hoodie, lighter colored jeans and light colored shoes.  I do not recognize this guy!  He's got a baby face and I didn't think he was over 22 years old.  Then...he whispers into my ear while still hugging me and holding me close and I can't really make out what he's saying so I kind of just smile and agree.  

"So...if you need my help, just let me know..." he says.

"Wait.  What?  What'd you say?" 

"Oh, I saw you standing here talking to this guy and I thought to myself, "I think I need to go save that girl, I don't think she wants to be talking to this guy." (referring to Bryce)"

"Hahaha...actually, we're good friends.  I know his mustache makes him look like a total creep, but he's a good dude."

"Oh, damn.  I'm soooooo sorry.  Well, is it okay if I just stand here and talk to you for a minute anyway?" he asks as he sort of hugs me again and pulls me in.

I didn't care so I let dude chat me up for a minute.  He introduced himself and I cannot remember dude's name, but I DO remember it being quite ambiguous.  He was waaaaaaaaaaaaasted so I didn't care and I never turn down a wasted convo.  As we talk, Bryce and his friend slowly move away from me.  What assholes.

I finally make it a little obvious I want to get back to my conversation and he lets me, but not before he asks for my name a second time.  I give him my name and he grabs ahold of my shoulders and repeats my name at LEAST 30 times all the while kind of pushing me back and forth.  I'm PRAYING he doesn't try to kiss me.  I wasn't in the mood to be ambushed!!!!  I luck out and he leaves after telling me it was nice to meet me.

I make my way over to Bryce and his friend to clarify if it was a male or female.  Verdict: female.

Shocker, right?  Didn't think so.  Me and my hair are a chick magnet.

Fat Kid Tour pt. 4

This last weekend I found myself in Los Angeles on yet another fat kid tour.  Cupcakes, coffee, more cupcakes and pretzels!!!  And yes...that's pretty much all I ate for 2 days.  And no...I don't regret that.

I got to put my feet in some sand for the first time in a looooooooooooooooooong time!  And it felt GOOD.

I was able to pull off my goal and I was out of Sacramento each weekend of January.  It was amazing.  I love not being home and I LOVED trying to find a new place to go each weekend.  What's going to suck is that the month of February will keep me somewhat confined.  Silly surgery!!!

Despite recent ridiculous events...I like to think my spirits are still amazingly high.  My guess is that it has something to do with all the new people I have contact with 3 or 4 days a week.  Especially the 73 year old Argentinian woman who I seem to see semi-regularly these days that told me, "You have a smile that makes people's days!"

Someone stole the key lime

And I almost cried.

There we were.  Grant, Brandon and I, inside Cafe Mekka in Nevada City staring 3 (count them...THREE) key lime tarts in the FACE.

Ahead of us is a couple taking a gander at the dessert case.  I hear them order.

The woman behind the counter asks Brandon what he'd like to order.  He tells the woman our drink orders and that he would like 3 key limes.  The woman says okay, but says she'll start making the drinks first.

Next thing you know...the couple ahead of us is handed 2 of the 3 key limes.

What assholes.  Didn't they KNOW we drove all the way from Sacramento to get THIS particular key lime?!?!  Then.  Add insult to injury.  Those dicks tell the cashier they only planned on ordering coffee, the desserts were an after thought they might not even want.

I could've punched them.  I should've punched them.  In the face.

I've been waiting

For the pity party to start and I think it's on it's way.  I try to be pretty optimistic, on the outside at least, but this shit gets to me.

It seems that there are fewer things that could happen to make things worse off.  Not just for me.  Getting bad news about people you love is never easy.  In this case, it drove me to a placing a phone call I haven't made in over 2 months only to hear an answering machine.  I knew that would be the outcome.  If I thought for a even a second there would be a faintly familiar voice on the other end, I never would have dialed the number.

After being out of town for last 3 weekends, I think I'm sitting this one out and staying in town.  I haven't found a reason for celebration, but I need to.

I got 99 problems...

Wait.  No I don't!!!  And I plan on keeping it that way!

I don't think I can truly explain how difficult it has been for me to find silly khaki/black straight leg/tapered leg pants for work.  I've been looking for at least 3 months and still I haven't found a pair I'm stoked on.  How ridiculous.  I'm thinking of going with a skirt instead, I think it'll be more comfortable anyhow.  Also...that gives me another excuse to go shop shop shopping.

V-Day is coming up and Etsy keeps teasing me with amazing goods, like these sweet earrings.

And this amazing card:

A girl can dream, right?!

On the road again...

From Hearst Castle to Morro Bay to Santa Cruz and home.

We saw a sunset.

We conquered the world:

We had a ridiculous amount of fun.

And back to the epic adventure...

After Bryce dug the giant piece of glass from deep inside his nasal cavity (the one on the dash in the photo), we found our way to receiving ONE bar of cell reception.

After I sat to the far right side of the car with my head at a 45 degree angle, I made the call to my insurance company.  I doubt they've talked to many people as good spirited as we were for having just been in an accident.

I've never had to take 45 minutes to explain where I was using a highway as a reference point, let alone asking someone "Can you find NEVADA?!"  It literally took us that long to finally explain to the representative on the phone where we were...in a general area.  I didn't realize that telling someone we were in the south eastern part of Oregon could lead to such a misunderstanding.  After giving the person Winnemucca as a reference point to find us, she decides it would be a good idea to send a tow truck from Winnemucca (almost 4 hours away) instead of one from Boise (2 1/2 hours away).  Not only is she a genius with this whole Winnemucca plan, but she tells me it will only take an hour and a half at the most.

Now...I know what she's saying is bulllllllllllllllllshit because Bryce and I had just driven 4 hours since WE'D left Winnemucca AND we were ahead of the blizzard that just hit their town.  If she expected them to be there in an hour and a half, she was clearly smoking crack rock.  I asked for her to send a tow truck from Boise instead and she told me she couldn't because the tow truck driver was already on the way (obviously not true since it'd only been about 20 minutes).  So...after this whole tow thing is set up...I start asking about rental vehicles.

She tells me the nearest rental agency to Winnemucca is in Elko.  ELKO.  2 hours away from the town we were supposed to get towed to.  HOW WERE WE TO GET TO THE RENTAL PLACE?!?!  She tells me she doesn't know.

It's 19 degrees outside and the window I'm sitting at is broken.  The cold is settling in and I grab a blanket.

Next thing you know, 2 hunting angels were sent to us and tell us there's a tow station about 15 minutes up the road.  I opt to stay with the car while Bryce gets the tow started.  We make it to the little rinky dink town where the tow yard and a small diner make up all the revenue for the town and the people who own the tow company are SAINTS.

After hanging around most the morning and dealing with insurance crap we finally hop in the tow truck for the 3 1/2 hour drive up to Nampa, Idaho.  This is where I'll say goodbye to my car, just in case I won't ever see it again.  Bryce and I are determined to continue with our trip because we're not going to let something as silly as an accident get us down!!!  We hang out in Boise for the night and grab delicious Chinese food for dinner.  Yeah...no potatoes in Idaho, I'm a retard.

We wake up in Boise we head to Twin Falls.  We see signs for the Oregon trail and want to see if we can catch typhoid fever or shoot an ox for food.  Instead of finding oxen or indians to help us float across the river, we find the illustrious Perrine Bridge.

We decide Twin Falls is a good of place as any to ring in the new year.  I have the brilliant idea of hitting up the local mall and finding the Hot Topic and asking any girl behind the register where her brother goes to hang out.  I figure this might get us to a sweet dive bar.  As luck would have it...we drive directly past a mall, so we pull in.  We walk into the mall and what store do we stand in front of?  Hot Topic.  What do we do?  Ask the girl behind the register where the local dive bars are.

They gave us sweet hats.

Surgery Scheduler left a voicemail today...

"Hi Rijel.  This is Maggie, the surgery scheduler.  I'm still waiting to get approval for your upcoming surgery from the insurance company, but I don't think I have the correct information.  On the form the doctor gave me, it says to schedule surgery for the left knee.  I'm looking at his notes and they seem to be referring to your left knee, but I think he meant to indicate it's your right knee since you JUST had surgery on your left knee.  I just want to confirm this information, please give me a call back."

Listening to this message, I was laughing hysterically.

I called her back.

"Maggie?  This is Rijel.  It is indeed my left knee."

"Even though you just had surgery on it?"

"Yes, ma'am.  Things aren't right in there."

Better late than never, right?

My road trip:

Bryce and I left pretty late Tuesday night.  We were both fully prepared for a full night of driving and staying awake.  We'd been preparing for it the past few nights and were totally ready.  We made it to Baxter and had to put on chains.  Shitty.  That meant I wasn't going to be getting any refund for them.  The snow was crazy beautiful and it was definitely snowING, so Bryce man'd up and put the chains on.

We were hauling ass at about 30mph until the state line.  Yeah.  We needed chains THAT long.  Once we got the chains off it was pretty smooth sailing.  I got an amazing postcard with a moose on it.  When we hit Winnemucca we went north on 95 to head up towards Idaho.  The scenery was BEAUTIFUL the entire time we were on the road.

A couple hours before sunrise I decided to take a nap before taking up driving, since Bryce had driven the whole time so far.  Just as the sun was about to make it's appearance I woke up to a ridiculously calm Bryce who was taking control of my car as we were spinning out.  It was totally surreal and probably the best roller coaster ride I've ever been on.

We hit the snow bank.  The passenger side window shattered.  Rear wheel bent.  Airbags deployed.  No cell phone reception.

After everything was settled we assessed damages.  Both Bryce and I were totally unscathed.  Well, comparatively at least.  I had a few small spots on my hand and Bryce found a piece of glass IN HIS NOSE!!!!!

First weekend of the year

With full weekends off in 3 years and Friday night was spent going to bed at 10pm.  Alissa and I are both sick.  Yikes.

Yesterday I went to Napa and went olive oil tasting.  It was delicious.  I also had Bouchon Bakery and Taylor's Automatic Refresher.  Best cheeseburger EVER.  I did what anyone would do and over fed myself all day long.  It was wonderful.  After we got back from Napa there was an impromptu photo shoot at the house.  Totally random.

Today was spent on the couch pretty much all day.  I think Alissa and I watched 4 or 5 different movies and worked on baby blankets.  I think the reality of the number of blankets I would like to finish before May is settling in.  And of course I have a couple other projects I need to finish before I can really start on the blankets.  I need to make more time for nerdy craft stuff.

There are

far too few hours in a day for me to be able to keep this thing updated.  I sure do miss the life of a handi at times!  But then again...I can walk now, so it's not a bad deal.

Work has been busy, which keeps me busy, which makes me happy.  The only bad part is adjusting to this schedule.  I'm WAY grumpy when I get off work.  Hopefully that'll get fixed by next week at the latest!  Or perhaps people should just send me silly text messages at 6pm my time so it'll brighten up the entire day.  Pictures of kittens, puppies, turtles, sombreros, or food will do the trick.  K.  Thanks.

My first day back at work I was helping some ghetto thug-ish hispanic kid (by kid I mean like 22ish).  He needed to sign some paperwork for me, so I slid the form under the glass.  I take his cash and do my thing at the register and when I sat back down he'd only pushed the paper halfway through the glass.  He and his friend were giggling.  Just as I reach for the form, he pulls it back towards him, pretends to write on the paper and mumbles, "Awww, yeah...I'mma just gonn write my number for you here."  He giggles as he says this and even though I hear him pretty clearly, I do what any normal person would do.

"Pardon?  What was that?" I asked loud enough for my partner who was about 10 feet away to kind of jump back at the volume.

Homeboy turns bright red, looks at his friend in embarrassment and says, "Oh, um. Nothing?"

I handed his paperwork back to him with a giant smile on my face and wished him a fantastic day and he slunk out of the lobby.

New Years Eve

Was spent at a dive bar in Twin Falls, ID.

Throughout the night we met a couple characters.  My favorite one was a guy who moved down from Alaska.  Apparently at some point he had gotten a DUI up in Alaska and even though he was apparently carrying a bunch of weed and cocaine, he only got charged for the DUI.  He went on to tell me that he LOVED a fire crotch.

My second favorite guy of the night was our hotel desk clerk.  He found out we were from California and got excited and started telling us about his celebrity encounters.  His prized possession: an autograph and a photo with a Burt Reynolds look-a-like that lives in Twin Falls.

Winter wonderland!

After a quick trip to my folks place to grab a sleeping bag and
whatever goods Jeannie Mae decided we needed to take, we're at In-N-
Out to settle our tum tums before we really hit the road!!! It's about
10pm, so we should get to the pretty stuff right around sunrise!

Before we even hit Baxter a we were putting chains on and continued
with 'em until almost the Nevada state line. It was slow going, but
crazy white and super beautiful. We don't mind the slow going since
neither of us has agenda.

It's about 4am and we're almost in Winnemucca and I think we straddled
a turtle who was sitting on the white line! Yikes!!!!!! We're both
still awake and going strong! We're gonna be tiiiiiiired dudes when we
finally sleep!!!

The phone rings early this morning

It's Jeannie Mae and I'm groggy as shit.  Our convo:

"Hey Rij, I'm just calling to let you know your cousin got out of the hospital okay and her surgery went well."

"Okay...good.  Thanks mom."

"So, did you answer the phone to give me Katie's address?"

"Ummm...what?"

I proceeded to give her Katie's address.  Apparently I know it by heart.  I hung up the phone completely confused.

Roadtripping and re-gifting

View Larger Map

This is the plan for Wednesday - Sunday. It's approximately 2,800 miles and 2 complete days of driving under regular conditions. I'm completely stoked! It looks like it'll be snowing in Yellowstone most of the time we'll be going through it, but I've got chains and we're packing very, VERY warm. I'll also be crossing off 4 more states and finally having the West completed!

RE-GIFTING IS GRANDMA'S FAVORITE

A few years back Gma had come and done Christmas with us. We were all opening our gifts and when my turn came up I chose the gift from Gma. For whatever reason, the item I was opening up seemed familiar. Jeannie Mae looked over at what I'd unwrapped.

"Hey!!! Mom?!?! Isn't that the gift Den & I got you last year?!" Jeannie Mae exclaimed.

"Oohh...I don't know. Maybe. I give her now." Grandma says and points to me.

"You can't just do that."

"Oh. Why not? I no use it. I don't really like it anyway."

(Gma rules)

Xmas Eve roommate ride

Brandon brought his new ironhead home the other day, which makes 3 bikes at our house.  What goes perfect with 3 bikes?  3 riders.

Once I woke up on Christmas Eve we all opened our gifts and peeped our stockings.  Brandon was checking the headlight on the sporty and we all decided we should go to breakfast.  Then we all decided we should RIDE to breakfast.  This was our first time riding together, each of us on our own bikes.

After taking 9823475028752849275 hours to get Brandon's bike kicked over, we all headed over to Fox & Goose.  It was pretty sweet riding in a lone wolf pack of three.  Brandon's bike was shitty in first and I got stuck at a red light.  For once Suzi was running pretty well, she must've liked the weather.  We took the long way too.  On purpose of course.  How would we get lost on a grid?  Yeah.  We wouldn't.

On the way home we took the busier streets and hit the heavier traffic (so like 10 cars on the road instead of 4).  We were on one of our main one way streets, 3 lanes wide with a red light and a few cars stopped in front of us.  When we would come to a stop, we'd be 2 - 3 cars back.  Brandon's a bit up ahead and I see him turn to look at me and I can see him smiling through his helmet.  I smirked and knew what he was doing.  He went to the right of the middle lane and I went to the left and we split the lanes to meet at the crosswalk.  In true Alissa style, she was right behind B.

Alissa was welcomed to a little bit of my favorite game: Shoot the Gap.

The pitter patter of little feet

I slept at my folk's place Christmas Eve so I could re-live my childhood (and by childhood I mean until I was 18) and wake my parents up at 5am on Christmas morning so I could open my gifts.  My dad and I even joke about it for a while and he said he couldn't wait until morning to hear the pitter patter of my feet coming down the hall to wake him up.

As usual, I didn't get back to their house until about 4am and didn't fall asleep until about 4:30 so around 8am I was the one who was woken up by the pitter patter of feet coming in to wake me up so we could open presents! 

I made out like a bandit this year and to top things off, I'm pretty sure I've got a solid plan for a 5 day roadtrip this coming week.  STOKED.

Also...my dad's "no beer for a year" plan ends January 4th.  He's under the assumption he'll be trashed in 2 beers.  January 4th, who wants to come with me to find out?!

My first robot arrived!!!!!!

And it's amazing!  I'm looking at him as I type this and he's WONDERFUL!!!!  It was a nice surprise to see a package from Adam D sitting in my mailbox!!!!!  I'd post a picture...but he's a present and I'd hate to spoil it!

Today was spent in San Francisco with shopping with Katie and Brandon.  We arrived at the Bay Bridge at 4:40pm.  We soon realized if we pulled off for a few, we could make carpool and save $4!!!  Since traffic was so heavy, we decided to play a fun game where we let EVERYONE who wanted, merge and zipper in front of us so we'd be further back and waste time.  We got a little too close for comfort and we just pulled over to the side where Brandon pretended to be on his phone making a call (since he was driving and technically it's illegal to drive with a handheld phone).

We finally saw the carpool lane open up.  And it opened up 6 lanes to the left of where we were, in completely stopped traffic.  Oops!!!!  So we made Brandon maneuver us all the way over and we got to the lane JUST before the lane separators started!!!  Phwew!

We hit up a few stores and got a couple gifts.  Thanks to me being all handicapped and what not, parking was free and it wasn't as crazy as I expected it to be.  We picked up our friend Vince and went to some delicious place that had friend plantains with bean sauce.  I fell in love.

On the way home we stopped by Candy Cane Lane in Vacaville to take in all the beautiful Christmas lights.  It was a good day.

Roadtrip

I think it's time again.  I have December 29th through January 3rd off and don't want to be in the state.  I don't know where I really I want to go, I just know it's not in California!!!  Perhaps it'll be a destination that'll be unknown until December 29th.  I HOPE that's how it turns out...those are my favorite.
6 days off...what to do with 6 days off.  Something spectacular, hopefully.

I want to go and find places with things like these:

And this:

I also want to take more pictures of people taking pictures.

Long johns are needed

The nights sure are getting colder.  

I went on a ride along with a friend tonight.  We got to drive really fast in fog and even look for someone jumping fences.  Then the car over heated and we needed to call a tow truck.  The tow truck driver gets there and he brought his wife.  Awesome.  How are all 4 of us going to fit in his crew cab?  We can all fit, but I wasn't so sure I wanted to be that close to his plumber's crack and sweatpants (ugh. sweatpants.).  

While we were waiting for him to hitch the car his crazy cracked out wife BLASTS the stereo and starts singing along.  We then got lucky enough for her to come out of the truck and show us her best dance moves.  When we let them know we were going to wait for someone to come pick us up, the wife tried to coerce us into the truck to wait where it wasn't so cold.  We politely declined.  

Surgery number 6

I figured I'd be more upset or bummed out when I actually heard my doctor speak of a 6th surgery as part of my definite future.  I kind of laughed a little, made a few calls, joked a bit more and sort of forgot about it for a few hours.

I guess the worst thing is not knowing exactly what's wrong with my knee.  Haha...I lied.  Having to get another surgery is probably the worst thing, but not knowing is definitely a close second!!!  My doctor and I explored all the options and it all comes back to getting back inside the knee to see what's actually causing my problems.  As with my last surgery, there are 3 possibilities of what my problem could be.  2 of them are a pretty easy fix, the 3rd is shit and with my track record and my knee's hatred for having a life without pain...the 3rd is probably what I'll be dealing with.

My doctor/surgeon is pretty rad.  He and I joked about what would have happened if I was a 65 year old.  He laughed and said that if I were 65, have had this many surgeries in the same timespan and were having the exact same symptoms, he'd just lop the damn thing off at the thigh!  Lucky for me, I'm quite young and spry with a good chance of healing!!!  He makes things a little more light hearted and easier to handle.  He hates cutting me open as much as I hate recovering from it.

In good news...Alissa, Grant and I watched Fighting tonight.  It definitely wasn't good and wasn't quite bad enough to be a bad good, it was just bad.  But Channing Tatum is a total babe.

Crafting

I have a new idea that I want to try for an air cleaner cover.  I think I can make it work and am pretty excited about it.  The problem is finding an appropriate air cleaner I can use.

I stuffed my face full of deliciousness at my work holiday party on Monday night.  There were fantastic mashed potatoes, chicken, pie, tri tip and pork.  I had seconds in the dessert section.  And by dessert, I mean chicken.

We had a gift exchange and Alissa miraculously got me this year and I got the most wonderful gifts!!!!  I requested: a giraffe, an owl and socks.  She got me an owl necklace and buttons, a giraffe belt buckle and cashmere socks!!!  I got the best person for secret santa!!!!!

I'm stoked to figure out what I'm getting my folks for the holiday as well as a couple other people I need to shop for.  Brandon said my gift is not in his room and I'm bummed because I'd totally be rifling through all his shit to find it.  Yeah...I'm THAT bad.

Today was Todd's birthday and we went and had some wonderful company and wonderful food at the taco spot across the street.  I got to talk motos.  Then when I got home I got to talk MORE motos.  I'm a lucky girl.  Seriously.

I've been thinking

And I've decided it'd be pretty sweet to have custom made knitting needles and crochet hooks.  It'd be like having a custom made pool cue...only more useful for me.  Besides, the last thing I'll do is shell out $350 for some aluminum needles that don't even have cool designs or sayings or my name on 'em.  Maybe I'll just invest in some sweet metal and hang out around the nearest friend with a lathe?

How rad would that be?  Showing up at the local knit meet or craft get together and excusing myself to go out to my trunk to procure my custom knitting needles?  There will be songs written about such an event and I'll be the local bad ass with the killer goods.

Dreams are coming to life

And not just mine.  It seems other peoples dreams are moving right along as well.

For example.  Our entire household became ordained ministers today.  We are now able to marry people.  Perhaps all 3 of us will do weddings where each of us participates.  I think that would probably be most ideal.

Also today was topped off with another story and me remembering that Brother sent me the entire Booya video.  He's a wonderful person who I am proud to be related to more and more each and every day.

I spent some time up in Auburn today and there was SNOW!!!!!!!  I also spent the past 2 nights convincing my roommates to go to the bar so I could get Shirley T's.

Jeannie Mae

My mom always amazes me.  Besides all the gifts that she's MAKING for everyone she knows, she also makes hats, scarves, headbands and blankets for the homeless.  This year, apparently she's also making things to give to the students at her school.

Between her and another lady at the school, they've pitched in and every morning before school starts, they put 20-40 items under the school's Christmas tree and the kids who get there early enough can have 1 item each.  I guess the idea is to get the kids to school on time, or even early.

Jeannie Mae is a saint.

Funny dad

Dad and I were sent out to do errands for Jeannie Mae. He tried to
get out of driving by saying his headlight is out. He said it was
just one, so I told him we could risk it.

As soon as we're in and he turns on the car, "Oh shit!" he exclaims.
He seemed frustrated and sincerely upset.

"You caught me listening to Celine Dion!"

Tons

of ridiculousness has happened within this past week.

I only hope the stories get more interesting.

And end with me living a life of luxury through a third party.

Or with a unicorn.

Quality time with the Hirata family

After a day of hornswoggling and running errands...the day ended as most days should: at the bar.

Brandon's cousin is in town and his sister brought her downtown to hang out and get some real "family time" in.  Alissa and I got the pleasure of meeting their cousin and hitting up a few bars with them.  His cousin scored a free lighter, we played shuffle board (and I'm pretty sure his sister and cousin are hustlers), and got chicken softs.

It's sad when I think that tomorrow (technically today) while everyone's getting the weekend started, I'll be heading to work for my Monday.  Oh well, only one more month and then it's to sweet days off.

Christmas gifts are moving along pretty slowly; I really need to pick up the pace.  Gotta stop doubting any talent I think I might be in possession of and get the ish going.

Time for sleep.  I'm going to take advantage of being tired before 4am.

Moto night rides

Today was sweet.  I woke up on my own accord, I made a pretty rad breakfast for Brandon and myself, I had dinner at Crepeville, I rode out to Julio & Rachel's to watch the season finale of Sons of Anarchy with good friends, I got to ride with B on the way home, I lurked some peeps, I watched Brandon lurk some peeps, I waited until Alissa got home and then the two of us went for a freezing ride around 3am and came back with our bodies numb.

I meant to snap a photo, but I forgot entirely.  I did, however, remember to bring my camera.  For the mean time, just picture this, but with motos:

2010 is going to be a good year.  I can feel it in my bones.

New boots!!

Boots are by far the only type of footwear I can really rationalize spending over $100 for.  Everything else you can find on sale.  Don't get me wrong, I know shoes, such as good running shoes are quite pricey, but at least with boots they'll last for a loooooooong time.

But this is of course, coming from the same girl who sees buying ANY motorcycle as an investment.

It's finally my weekend and I just spent the past hour watching 2 minute movies...AKA movie trailers.  I found quite a few I'd like to see when they come out.  One, in particular, featuring Matthew Goode who's a crazy fine babe.

Let the weekend begin!!!

Today was.

Things that shouldn't be complicated are complicated.

This holiday weekend has been a little dreary.  I didn't realize I'd miss my family on Thanksgiving as much as I do now that the day is over.  The Thursday at the end of November has always been the one time the whole family made an effort to get together.  I want to hug my grandma pretty bad right now.

Things didn't quite work out the way I'd hoped today, but I have amazing friends with wonderful words and good timing.  I was happy far more than I was sad and laughed 98237542089 more times than I frowned and that's A LOT of times!!

What's there to be bummed about?  I have a Norton in Lincoln and a donk in my room.

PMA ALL DAY.

The love of my life

Is back in Sacramento.  Soon we will be together and inseparable.

The game needed me

This "weekend" of mine has flown by.  With friends making coming in from out of town for the holidays, the baking and the xmas crafting I haven't had much time to sit around.  Gone are the days of being a cripple who does nothing.  It's a blessing and a curse I suppose.

Tuesday I got to craft in a group and it was amazing.  I hope it can be a more regular thing and not just a once.  Ever.

Wednesday I was supposed to go shopping, but decided I should sleep instead.  I never usually turn down shopping, as it IS one of my favorite past times, but I was tired.  Brandon comes and wakes me up about 40 minutes later to see if I wanted to ride motorcycles.  I couldn't go back to sleep so the two of us did about an 80 mile trip out to Lincoln and back.

Katie was in town and we went to dinner and then to the bar.  I had a ton of fun and chair danced a lot of the night.  There were quite a few people there and it was far from a dull evening.  I didn't get to bed until about 4.  I was very tired when I woke up at 9 to get to my folk's place to start baking.

Today I made 3 lemon meringue pies and helped with the pound cake Jeannie Mae made.  I ate so much I thought my stomach was going to explode.  I filled myself so full I didn't have much room for dessert, but...me being me, I shoveled it in anyway.  Fat kid status.  Brother and I got so full that once we sat down we were physically unable to get up.  It's a good thing I spent that 3 minutes working out on the rowing machine before dinner got started.  I showed that meal who was boss.  There were only 8 of us for dinner, which seemed awfully empty, but it was an extraordinary group of people that I was very happy to have close and share dinner with.  I can't think of a single Thanksgiving where the entire party could fit at one table.

Katie came over pretty late after visiting with her family and I drove her home.  I'm not looking forward to going to work tomorrow, but I am happy there won't be any traffic.  Gotta be happy about the little things, right?  Gotta keep that PMA until my new schedule come January!

Uptown got it's hustlers...

Bowery got it's bums.

Still one of my all time favorite songs.  Thank you, dad.

This is still one of my favorite Etsy items.

Yellow is still my favorite color and is still the color of my gma's house.

I still wish my folk's had a sandbox in their front yard and a giant wooden play structure.

Regardless of obvious animal cruelty issues, I still think it would be way sweet to own a pig with wings.

I've got to clean my room before Tuesday night.

My favorite blanket is still the one my mom crocheted for me when I was 15.

I'm happy to have received the cash money I was missing in the mail.

Stoked to pay off my dentist entirely.

Excited to have found my necklace with the sewing machine on it.

Need to make more time for working out my knee.

Need to make more time for crafting.

Need to make more time to turn into Betty Crocker.


Grandpa's birthday is coming up soon and I miss him dearly.  The holidays make me miss these two glorious, amazing people.

Alissa Tugaeff: Motorcycle extraordinaire/gold medalist.

Today Alissa and I woke up early and saw a dreary day.  About an hour later, much to our surprise, we caught a glimpse of hope as the sky started turning more blue.  We quickly showered and got on our super extreme and exceptionally fashionable motorcycle garb.  Because that's what motorcycles are all about, right?  Looking good.

Alissa jumped on Brandon's bike and I got Suzi out from behind the fence.  We took a cruise down the highway by the river and did some quick motocross.  We took a few jumps and got a little squirrley, but nothing we couldn't control.  After all, we are experts.

We met up with Turkmenistan's favorite wedding crasher and giant horse tamer, George Tugaeff and his lovely wife Monica.

After a couple drinks we got back out on the highway.  Once we hit the road we raced some thugs in a pimped out Escalade and took them for all they had.

Today was my first day back at work in 4 months, and it's not to be forgotten because our co-worker's nephew came in.  This is amazing because her nephew is Andre Phillips, Olympic Gold Medalist.  We got to hold and wear the medal, meet the man who is amazing enough to WIN the medal and even get to take pictures with him!  I got an autograph for my mom.  I'm pretty sure she's gonna be bummed that she didn't meet that dark chocolate goodness herself, but I know she'll be happy with a signed photo.

This picture is a little blurry, but there's a better one floating somewhere.  I'll find it later.  Nice jacket.

Last night was my first time

Riding in a group.  I've only ridden with more than 1 person one other time in my life and it was for a little over 200 yards.  That being said, last night ruled.  There were four bikes total and I completely loved it.

Brandon and I were to be at Scotty's by 6:30 and he's in Roseville.  Traffic at that time was going to suck and B knew I was nervous about riding in traffic, so he said we'd leave early to make sure we'd make it on time.  We headed out around 5:30 and we agreed I'd be in front on the freeway so that way I could decide if I felt comfortable enough to play a little game I call Shoot the Gap.

We got stopped at a red light right before the on ramp.  There were about 4 or 5 cars waiting for the meter at the on ramp and Brandon looked over at me and signaled to split the lanes...I shrugged, smiled and told him to go first.  The light turned green and pissed off about 8 or 9 cars.  Motos don't have to stop for metered on ramps, riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight? 

Once we were on the freeway I felt comfortable, but not entirely ready to split lanes.  Traffic was moving at like 45 mph, so I felt comfy enough to stay behind cars.  When the traffic hit about 30, I peered down between the cars and saw a gigantic lane begging to be used.  So we did.  I don't think we went over 45 and when it came time to pass the old lady and the semi, I hung back.  I don't like big trucks and the elderly driving next to each other.  B laughed at me, but I told him "Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeck no!!!!"

We met Kip at Scotty's and went to pick up Annie.  We all rode downtown and no one really broke down.  Yesssssssssssssssssss.  

If I remember tonight I'll have to write about Kip's misadventure.  Muahahaha

Alissa's second ride

On Tuesday Brandon told Alissa she could ride his bike whenever she wanted...so long as she could get the thing started.

Yesterday B and I kept egging her on about riding the bike and finally she had time to go.  So we went outside and she hopped on the bike.  After brief instruction, it started right up.  I threw on my helmet and glasses and the two of us headed down the street!  I took her through the residential areas so we had to hit a lot of stop signs.  Everyone can use practice getting in to first gear, so that's what I had her do!  She only stalled a few times, but she seems to be getting the hang of it.  My leg also felt pretty good with being able to put the kickstand up and down.  That was my biggest problem the first time riding.  I've got no hamstring or quad muscles really and the motion for the kickstand was brutal.

Tonight I'll be riding with more than 2 people for more than 100 feet.  Yikes.  I've never really ridden with more than 1 other person before.  I'm not gonna lie, I'm a little nervous.  And by a little nervous, I mean a lotta nervous.  I can't wait to rule the streets on Nigel instead of Suzi.

I was talking to Brandon about how I'm glad Nigel isn't up here yet.  There's no way I'd be able to start him on my own and I'll be damned if I ask Brandon to kick him over for me.  If I can't start him, I won't ride him...nor will anyone else.  ESPECIALLY Brandon.

Off to physical therapy.  Got to get this leg ready for kicking over an 850cc beast.

Riding wet

That's what she said?

Physical therapy today for the first time in a few weeks.  It was pretty brutal.  She moved me up to 5 lbs for my leg lifts and I'm still sore.  We tried to do some squat exercises where I do these side step things, but my knee didn't like it.  I thought for sure it was going to give out.  I didn't attempt it because of the pain.  Maybe next week.

Brandon and I rode motos to Julio & Rachel's place to watch Sons of Anarchy tonight.  As we walked out the door it started to sprinkle.  Brandon looked at me and asked if I wanted to ride still.  We looked at the clouds and decided, "Heck.  Why not?!"  So we rode out.  Once we got there it started raining pretty good.  We decided to leave when the show was over and the rain had subsided we headed back to the house.

I noticed B was riding a little crooked.  When I got closer to him I saw his tire spitting water straight at his face.  Homie has no front fender.  Funniest thing ever.  He also has no rear fender to speak of so as we took off our coats, his sweatshirt was soaked.  I was pretty dry.  Good thing I wore boots to ride in!!!!!  Silly Brandon.

Rhino vs. Donk

I don't know who'd win...but it looked like a good match up.  I think the rhino stands a chance.

I GOT A DONK TODAY!!!!!!!!!!  It's amazing.  And it fought a rhino.  It came in the mail from a fantastic person!!!  Super donk.

I didn't work on my new cable scarf at all today.  Instead, I cleared up my room and created a much needed crafting area within my bedroom.  I now have a chair for my desk too.  I also started on my xmas presents. Not an "I'm going to start but NEED to do something else in order to get everything right" kind of started, but actually started.  I'm proud of what I've done so far, but I've got a long ways to go.  I made yet another trip to the craft store today.  That makes 5 stores in 3 days (once was with Jeannie Mae and I didn't get anything so I don't know if that still counts?).  Yikes.  Good thing I'm only getting necessities.  If not I'd be totally screwed.

This was made for me years ago.  I decided Loco Bandito should be my nickname.  I got a button.  Amazing present as well.

There's a war around the corner

with no guaranteed winner.
Don't think I'm all political...totally not.  Those are lyrics, don't be silly.


This is the week of domestication apparently.  I'm waking up at or before 8 every day and even making  breakfast.  I tried baking some pies at my house and I don't think it went so well.  They just didn't turn out as good as I'd hoped.  There's something about baking at my folk's place with mom's recipes that just makes everything turn out well.  I feel like I should redeem myself with pies baked at her house!!!  During this pie baking extravaganza I threw in a gluten free pie for Brother and Brother's wife...it looked better than I expected and Amy even said it tasted good.

Last night I also mastered the incredible cable stitch.  It was something I was a little intimidated to do.  I'd tried it once before and failed (probably because I didn't have a cable hook) and refused to try it again, UNTIL last night.  I sat around watching the tele with the 'rents and Jeannie Mae and I knit up a storm while Dennis Lee flipped through the channels and critiqued my cabling.  Hahaha...he just didn't know what they looked like before sweater-form.

I'm pretty impressed my stitches are as consistent as they are.  I'm not used to purling, so I don't think this is toooooo bad.  I see small flaws and I know gma would, but I wouldn't expect any less from a woman who's a self-taught knitter since the age of 5.

I've also got a craft day set up for next week and I'm EXTREMELY excited about it.  It feels good to have friends who are into needle arts to work on stuff with.

Domesticated?

This is the homemade wonton soup Alissa and I made for dinner.

These are the pumpkin pies that I made for dessert.

The wonton soup was a little salty, but it was still pretty delicious!  Especially for our first time ever making wonton soup...especially from scratch!!

The pumpkin pie may taste like crap because I totally forgot to add a can of evaporated milk.  I was doubling all the ingredients to make 2 pies...and so I've only got the one can in the mix.  Yikes!!!

I think I'll make bread soon too.  Sweet bread is the BEST!!!!  Plus quality time with Jeannie Mae!!!

Knees in the breeze

I got on a motorcycle today for the first time in over a year.  I took Suzi for a spin around the block and when I got back Alissa jumped on the back.  I'm not going to lie...it made me a little nervous to have someone on the back of the bike, but I would never put anyone's safety at risk.  It felt good being on a bike again.  REALLY good.

Once Alissa hopped on the back, Brandon, her and I hit the road and headed to my folk's place.  We made it to good old Rio Linda and made a vat of wontons.  I think we made enough of them for about 13 people.  There were only 5 of us.  Yikes.  So if anyone wants to come fry some left over wontons that may or may not be good (it's unknown at this point)...please let me know.

At my folk's place Alissa got on Brandon's bike and took it for a spin.  She's basically a natural.

My dad also took the bike for a spin.  I was extremely surprised he didn't come back and tell me it was "a piece of shit," but he did tell me it needs some work (which I already know).

After Alissa took off for 15 minutes, Brandon freaked out and got Suzi and went to find her.  Apparently she made it down to THE busiest streets in a 7 mile radius.  How she did this...I have no idea.  She made it back safely and we were all off again first to Scotty's and then to Kip & Mel's for ANTM Wednesdays.

The ride from Kip & Mel's back to our place was...cold.  I kind of forgot and luckily for me Kip had hooked me up with a good scarf for the ride back.  My neck was warm.  Sore from keeping my head up against the wind, but warm.  I forget all the small things about riding.  Like how much I should get a full face lego-man helmet or how good it feels to have my wrist hurt from pulling in the clutch.  These things are bothersome, but in a very, VERY good way.

There was no game of Shoot the Gap.  I'm still trying to keep the bike in my half of the lane...especially with someone else on the back.  Besides, I would never do something that dangerous.  I'm responsible?  Pshyeah right.  Before you get off congratulating me, I'll probably be playing that game in no time as long as weather permits.

I love my new gloves.  I love my cowboy boots.  I love my friends.  I love my parents.

Standard Brandon

I've been waking up early lately and today was no exception.  I woke up around 8, checked facebook, saw Omar's post about some delicious burrito and decided I was going to give it a go at making breakfast.  I got out a couple eggs, a potato and a bell pepper.  I scrambled the eggs and cut up the potato and pepper and put them all in a delicious tortilla, added sriracha and put them all in my mouth.

Around 10:30...after I finished up with the food and made my burrito thing I went and woke up Brandon.  He's usually up around 10 anyway and so I figured it'd be alright.  After I tell the asshole what I made he says, "This is why you woke me up?!"

Then after I started to leave the room...this doldrum asshole says, "You should've added soyrizo."

Yeah.  I made this guy breakfast and all he does is say I could've done it better.  This was my first attempt at scrambled eggs or potatos and he tells me I should've done it differently.  I.hate.brandon.

You're on infinite repeat

I've already started thinking about Christmas and the presents I wish to create.  I have a few ideas and I think they're pretty good ones.  Hopefully I will be able to pull them all off.  If not...everyone is getting crocheted coasters.

Didn't get to see fun. today, but Lawrence Arms on Thursday.

Words to live by:

Let's turn good into fantastic.

Google-ing my own name

I don't always google myself.  But every once in a while I think it's pretty funny.  I'll start with "rijel" then move to "rijel violet" sometimes I'll throw in "rijel lewis."  I got all tricky tonight and decided to pull the throw back "rijelviolent" and "rijel violent."

Not only did I find an old friendster profile that I can't seem to remember the login for to delete, but I also found a forum post from MotoHouston.com about an old Ebay ad Jeff had posted quite a few years ago.  This was part of an ad for an old 19" drum front wheel:

"instant legendary status. and hopefully your neighbor who comes by sometimes and drinks all your beer will then feel obligated to carry on the name, only now its "black-widow old-school spider-web-all-over-everything choppers....... legacy". you are a schmuck. don't buy this wheel. go back to school and become a lawyer or start a restuarant. i hate you already. no reserve. check my other auction items for smoking deals on harley and chopper junk.

if you have an important question, or you want to talk about your feelings, call me at 916 397 8495 jeff"

You may think he's an asshole.  I think he's funny.

Dessert for breakfast

All day every day. At least that's how the world should work.

I got a message today on my Flickr account from someone at the art blog vvork.com. I'd sort of forgotten, but back in June they had sent me a message asking permission to use one of my silly dino photos (this dino photo) in the Fotofestival Mannheim Ludwigshafen Heidelberg, Germany. The message I got today sent me photos of my picture in the exhibition. One of Alissa's photos was in a travel book, mine in some crazy art labyrinth...now we just have to wait for one of Brandon's!!!

I think I've figured out some Christmas presents this week. Now it's just executing the ideas. I'm pretty sure I can do it, I just need to make the time and find my supplies!!!

My knee has been a trooper lately. I'm pretty impressed with it's progress. Hopefully my physical therapist will be too. I just need to keep stretching and keep up with my work outs.

Little mechanic

I got this picture from my brother. Looks like my nephew's starting
early! Now if only we can get him away from air cooled engines and on
to domestics!!

Breaking and entering

Or just opening and entering. I went to a BBQ on Friday night where I
met some pretty fantastic people. The coals were warming up outside
and the door back to the apartment where the festivities were being
held was always locked. Once the BBQ was ready for the meat the owner
of the place starts patting himself down and looking at the table top
a bit confused. "Do you guys see my keys anywhere?"

We all search for his keys and none were found. This is how we got
the meat: