Blogger Confusion : (Updated)

Hi gang, so I'm shouting out to all Blogger users to see if I'm high...

 Hi, I'm cute and haven't been featured lately.  Stupid Blogger.

As you know, or now know, I've been having issues uploading pictures from England to the Furniture Renewal to my New Place to Today.  It's always giving me this craptastic "Server Expired" excuse.  And now when I just tested to see if I could upload more pictures, it warns me "I'm out of storage space."  WTF???  (I'd screen shot then post the actually Warning Box of Death...but I'm out of space.)

It blabs about Picasa...Google...blah, blah...1GB...snore...'What'd I miss?'

So now I'm fiddling with the whole Picasa concept which just annoys me more than anything, because I'm just a lousy milblogger who wants to blab her day.  Is that so much to ask for????  Oh, that and a great job.  But one thing at a time, eh?

Please leave your brilliance should you have any.  Not that you (my fabulous readers) aren't brilliant.  :footinmouth:  I'm just looking to figure this issue out.  Thanks y'all!!

*Update*

Stab me. I'm out of room on Blogger.  So now I get to debate Quit Blogging or Use Other Means....:stabme:.  Obviously, I won't quit blogging, but please enlighten me how you do business?  How do you deal with high photo storage needs?  Thanks (again)!

So my birthday is coming up.

Something is wrong.  Very wrong.  Usually I wake up, with an energy that rivals Michael Jackson not-doped-up, and do back-flips to my heaping bowl of Cheerios.  Well, that was until we cross the Mississippi.


Now I crawl my ass outta bed ala The Ring, and start licking coffee grounds until a.) the coffee actually brews or b.) the grounds give me 2nd degree burns on my tongue.  (Maybe then I can sing along with the guy, "You don't always die from tobacco...sometimes you just lose your tongue.")


I don't know what happened.


Take today for instance.  I've been up since 6:28am, and the first thing I did was make coffee.  It's now 7:17am, and I've enhaled one cup of coffee...but still have failed to fixate on those little halos of love.  It could be because I have another interview today (with another employing agency) and my appetite is nowhere to be found.  And while it may not be interviewing for the White House, interviewing still makes me queasy.  And it's not that I don't like talking about myself (because that's just lies!), it's that people judge you on every. little. thing.


Oh, you went to a state-funded university.


Oh, you're tall AND you still wear heels.


Oh, you haven't tenured as an Executive Assistant to a VP yet.  What's your issue?


Two words: "F*** off."  I don't need your judgmental attitudes ruining my mojo.  I don't work because we need the money.  I work because I WANT to.  I work because I like it.  I like the responsibility.  The camaraderie.  And the money.  Because let's face it.  When your checking account is down to $71, it kinda depresses me.  (And no, this is not all the money I have.  My savings is still Uncle-Scrooge-can-swim-in-it, I just refuse to transfer over any money until I bring in more bacon.  It's not like I need anything else.  Minus more printer paper.)


So this is my issue this morning.  Coffee blows my skirt up more than Cheerios.  Well, minus the weekends.  Because those are all casual, and I don't have to get up and put my best power suit on.  And by "power" I mean JCPenney.  Because this blogger doesn't do lesbian, mid-60's real estate agent.  Nope.  Sorry.

Happy Job-Hunting Monday!

Not that I have profound opinions on diamonds...

I just found this hilarious.  Maybe this is because I've been staring my computer screen updating my Linked In, networking with old colleagues, building online resumes, and moisturizing my lips to land a superb employment opportunity.  Or maybe it's because I only had lunch at 2:30pm and I'm still feeing starved.

You'd think Barney Stinson would have designed this.

But Day #1 is coming to an end in the world of "Operation: Bring Home the Bacon."  Tomorrow I have a few appointments with employment agencies that have some legitimate job listings that intrigue me.  So we'll see.  Just know I won't be applying for anything Housekeeper on JobHospitality.com.  No, no, no.  I don't clean hotel rooms.  Thanks.

And it'll be nice to be reunited with my suits.  My darling suits.  I've missed you.  Have you missed me?  You better.  Because that means you like being worn.  And you like the power..

I'm so ready for a paycheck again.

My internal gut is starting to wrench.  Tomorrow is a big day.


What was supposed to happen last week has been delayed to tomorrow.  And while it was nice to delay the inevitable, it's time to suck up being the new girl in town.


Tomorrow will start my first official day of looking for work in Southern California.  And this slightly scares me.  I don't remember being nervous in Virginia, even though I was under the same circumstances as here.  I was new to the town.  It was just Mr. Wookie and I.  And we were trying to make it big.  And by 'big,' I mean make it in general.


But we survived.  In fact, I'd say we flourished.  It was our first time living with anyone of the opposite sex.  We took a chance on our relationship, and it worked.  There was no awkward break-in period between us.  It was just We're finally together.  And this is our place.  Okay, we still maintain that it was just his place - I happened to just infiltrate the closet, the bathroom space, the vodka supply, and the veggie bin in the fridge.


Now we're feeling like we're actually making our own space here.  This is a nice feeling.


But...it's time for us to get back into our normal routine, so it's time for Mrs. Wookie to bring home some bacon.  And let's also note that the incredible boredom I face as a Betty Homemaker.  There is only so much you can do around a house when you only have 2 people living there.  Let's just say laundry doesn't really stack up with only 2 in the house.  Thank goodness.


I'm so ready to rock my pencil skirts again.


So wish me luck in my search efforts.  And an endless supply of vodka to soothe my spirits (get it - spirits?).  And we'll see how things go.  Tomorrow is progress.

Friday Fill-In (Times Two!)

Blessed be the man who just connected our internet here in Casa de Wookie.  Funk fest is over as I had a beer last night, have solved the shoe crisis, but still need to figure out the accessories for tonight.  But that's after I have my morning coffee.  Then maybe some laundry.

But let's get on that wagon of the Friday Fill-In.  So let's go!

What characteristic about yourself has either been strengthened or weakened due to your experience as a Mrs. Wookie?

Back in college, I always thought I could stand to be apart.  Then after college, it was a baptism a la fire for being apart.  But now that I've learned to be apart, I was shocked when Mr. Wookie came home early last week.  I was kinda looking forward to my time alone.  And let's face it, who doesn't like to watch the dishes stack up in the kitchen without having to lift a finger. ;)

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?

Oooo, well there's Napa in 2006.  There was Disney World in 2007.  We did 4th of July in Washington, DC last year.  But none of those were technical "vacations."  We've done camping adventures in the Oregon mountains, along side creeks, where we had to back-pack everything in.

But my favorite, for both the food and the view, was a weekend away to coastal Oregon.  The town is Depoe Bay, not far from where Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston had a home.  The moon set over the Pacific ocean.  The reflection of the moon was just as intense on the water as the actual moon in the sky.

There was champagne and a deck that overlooked the water.  It was perfect.

If you could have any fast-food restaurant in the food court on base/post, what would you pick?

Ummm, I'm not really into fast food (minus the occasion Drunk Bus to Taco Bell on Halloween in 2008 [thanks Dad, by the way!]).  But if I had to choose one, it'd be Subway.  As long as they don't scrounge me on my veggie toppings.  Communists.

Where did you go on your honeymoon?

Not married = no honeymoon.  But I've always wanted to go to Fiji.

If you could have any job in the world regardless of money, degree, or experience, which job would you have and why?

Trust fund baby.  End of story.

But if I have to be honest, I'd be Sam Brown.  Travel the world, but without having to eat the nasty bugs that Anthony Bourdain does.  That'd be the life.

And last week, since I missed it...woops...

How do you spend your deployment money, do you save, pay off bills, or enjoy the extra money while it is there to buy the things you do not normally have?

We haven't done a deployment yet, so I don't have answers for this.  But with the money saved by not buying Charmin toilet paper, bourbon, and steak every week, I'd go with my penny-pinching method and stow it away.  Then maybe splurge on steak and red wine when he comes home.  Or a pedicure.  Depends on how hormonal I am that day.

If you could relive one occasion or moment, what would it be?

My first kiss with Mr. Wookie.  Butterflies, electricity...everything.

What's the worst job you ever had and if it was so bad why did you take it?

Define "worst."  Because in college, I worked as a wildland firefighter in between school years.  Have you ever trucked up and down a mountainside, with a heavy-ass backpack, a shovel, with the potential for death, for 16 or 18 hours a day, sometimes at night, all for an awesome paycheck?

Well...it sucked sometimes.  You're tired.   You're cranky.  You're extremely dirty.  There were times when my legs would be so soot-covered, that they wouldn't get clean for days.

But that paycheck was worth it.  $10,000+ for 3 months worth.  Not bad.

If you could play any character on TV, who would you be?

Need I say more?

If you could become the world's expert in something, what would it be?


Composting.  Green living.  Reducing your environmental demands.  And how to Vulcan Death Grip screaming babies.  That may be #1 though.

The ways Mrs. Wookie is grumpy...

* Waking up in the morning without any responsibility makes me sad.  I don't dig the Betty Homemaker lifestyle.  I dig the Sally SuitWearer lifestyle.  I never thought I'd say I miss the suits of the East Coast.  But...I miss the suits of the East Coast.

* There's a laundry list of things that are going wrong with the Wookie & Co. household.  Like an oven that's had 2 power failures in 2 weeks.  And a sink that won't unclog after I merely rinse the dishes.  And you can imagine what a Ging is like when it comes to the home being not perfect..."Oh, Mr. Landlord..."

* I caravaned across the area today looking for kitten-heel cocktail shoes.  And fail.  FAIL.  FAIL.  FAIL!  Aldo = nope.  Nine West = not even.  Cole Hann (not that I'd pay that freakin' price!) = wah wah wah (that's the mopey Price-Is-Wrong tune.  This is what I get for searching for love with 24 hours to a Navy Ball.  I never will learn.

* Have I mentioned I'm bored without working yet?

* Fail for the one employment agency that wanted me to enter all my information into their little database.  Umm, this is why I made a fantastic resume...so I don't have to have it ugliafied (totally a word) by your database. And this is nothing against employment agencies.  Completely the opposite.  They usually work wonders for me.

* Fail to that same company that wanted me to put my address on said resume.  Yes, because after your posting this resume online, I'd LOVE to have some stalkers in my building looking for me.  Umm, not really.  This is the modern age.  People do kidnap people...still.  And here you go, wanting me to put my sole existence on this little piece of paper so employers "know where I live."  Yes, and after that let's invite Charles Manson over for some tea.  Maybe some hot chocolate.  And cross-stitch.  Because he won't be thinking about how to Lacey Peterson my ass.

* Tomorrow we get INTERNET!  Yes.  No more piggybacking on my neighbors.  Thanks neighbors though.  Seriously.  This blog only has 3 readers now, but at least that's 3 readers.

* Yesterday I went out for a run and some cross training.  Insight: I ran a mile away (actually 1.1 miles) and then did a series of ab work, walking lunges, some step-ups, calf raises, and more walking lunges.  And the cross training killed me more than the running.  Hmm...Yes, I had to run 1.1 miles home still.

* It's getting close to my birthday.  Which means that 30 is even MORE close than I'd like.  Seriously.  Who likes getting older?  The only thing to look forward to are presents.  But even that's not exciting since my parents assisted in the fundage of my dining room table.  Happy birthday, Mrs. Wookie.  You now have a place to eat.

* Nay to the Girls Next Door.  And yes, I mean those Girls-Next-Door former Hefner girlfriends.  I've been watching Season 1 and 2, and can't wait to express how my body image has dwindled in those past few days.  Now I realize why girls get their boobs done.  Have you seen 30-year-old boobs before?  Well...I'm not looking forward to that.  Or maybe I should say 'I'm not looking downward for that.'  This is certainly an epic fail.  Thanks Hef.  Never thought I'd be body conscious past 19.  I was wrong.

* We're out of lettuce in the house.  Minus iceberg.  While this is classified as a lettuce, we reserve it for times of "crunch" like tacos and burgers.

* I bought a cross-stitch a few days ago at Michael's.  Thinking it was on terms of our decorating scheme, I couldn't wait to start it.  Now I'm realizing that this is way above my ability level.  Not to mention my ability level is that of a 4-year-old.  I'm going to have to call in the big guns for this.  Oh, Mr. Wookie (I'm not kidding).

* I was amidst a shoe battle today at Nordstrom Rack when I e-blasted Baby Sister, Middle Sister, and Mr. Wookie for advice on shoe selections.  Thanks to my phone for dying, I only heard back from Baby Sister.  It was a go for bright-ass yellow pumps.

* And I'm having a bit of a crisis in the shoe department as I fear for Mr. Wookie's reputation.  See...I plan on wearing a white-with-black-lace-psuedo-1950's-ish-cocktail-dress to the Navy Ball tomorrow.  So my search for jewel-colored shoes ended up in failure.  So I found a couple potentials.  But then anxiety took over me.  What if they think I'm a wack-job for wearing colored shoes with a black/white dress.  What if Mr. Wookie is shunned because of this.  What if I kill his career????  What if...what if...what if???  

Yes, I've had a beer since this minor panic attack.

So tomorrow I'll play "Flamingo" with the 2 pairs I brought home.  And if I'm still not feeling them, there's always the mall tomorrow afternoon.  Then maybe next time I'll mark Shoe Shopping in my calendar.

So a Ging walks into wifi...

Remember that one time I didn't blog for one week?


Remember that one time I still didn't have internet after being back in California for a week?


Remember that one time my doorbell rang and Mr. Wookie was standing at the door?


Remember that one time we went to buy a dining room set but they couldn't deliver until Wednesday?


Remember that one time that Blogger was a nicumpoop and wouldn't upload my pictures?


If you do, you're amazing.  I'll give you a high five.  Or a low five.  Whatevs.


So it's been a week, and I do apologize for all the silence.  With Mr. Wookie's early arrival home, we decided to go full throttle into finishing up the house.


We've purchased a couch/loveseat combo - delivery is next weekend.


We've purchased a dining room set - delivery is this week.


And THANK GOD that our washer/dryer were delivered yesterday.  Because I couldn't stand the stare at the piles anymore.  That and Mr. Wookie's seabag (which is on base - why? I don't know) will also have more laundry to add to the pile.  So 1950's-Mrs. Wookie has been busy.  But only in the laundry room.  Mr. Wookie so cooked last night.  Welcome home.


But yes, Mr. Wookie's home.  Unexpectedly.  I was living it up single-Mrs. Wookie style.  Dishes in the sink. Clothes thrown wherever.  Whatever.  He's not due back for another week.  Shweet.  Wrong.


Now if only Blogger would fix their issues with my uploading pictures.  a.) I have a whole day dedicated to Little Man. b.) Y'all still haven't seen my dresser updates! c.) Blogging without pictures bores even ME. (and) d.) This has been going on for some time.  Is it me?  Or is it them? (Please say 'them!')


Hopefully there'll be more of me.  And my blogging.  And digital proof of my existence vs. mere typing away at my keyboard.  But first, Overstock.com.  I need an entryway bench, that's black, and 3' wide.  Maybe some baskets underneath to store shat.  Yes, that sounds nice.

It's just another manic Monday (oh oh oh)

Hello all, just thought I'd ramble some incoherent thoughts to you on this surprisingly sunny day in Southern coastal California.  I'm on the patio, in the sun, waiting for my $4 merlot to breathe, then it's Happy Hour! 


Saturday was our 12-hour trek from Southern Oregon to Southern California.  Never again - I'm so over roadtrips.  Not that the trip was entirely dramatic (unless you count the sisters freakin' out that they were going to run out of gas on the Grapevine).  I'm just over being stuck in a car traveling (unless I can sleep through the whole thing).  I'm sooo flying home for Christmas.  Which has me thinking.  We need to nail down flying dates for Mr. Wookie's cousin's wedding near Seattle the weekend before Christmas.


Today we hit up the fun destination of Costco.  Of course, we purchased 2 huge boxes of Cheerios.  Plus some Charmin (since Mr. Wookie claims he's worth the non-hippie purchase of premium toilet paper - I say "pssssh").


Mr. Wookie's mom said she missed the blog since it's been silent for a few days (Hi Bonnie! I know I miss you.  You should come visit.  After we actually have furniture in the place - otherwise you get an airbed [classy!]).


Yes, we're still furniture-less.  I struck out in Oregon.


What else should I ramble on about?


The Sheriff and Baby Sister fly back tomorrow out of LAX.  That leaves me...all alone...in a city where I know...1 other person.  Joy.  So maybe I'll take Wednesday morning and go play at Target (since I still need to purchase a Libman Wonder Mop).  Target always makes a girl happy.  And a 2-story Target should really make me happy. :)


I'm still trying to weed through the boxes that were left by Mr. Wookie who had to ferociously leave in a hurry as the "going away" date kept changing.  To be honest, the boy doesn't know how to pack with any organization when it comes to moving.  There are maps of Pensacola flight charts, mixed with his Game Boy, mixed with turtle food, and a shit ton of wires.  Oh, right, because...no wait...there's no reason for this to be in the same box.


So these boxes of fun will be left for him to come back to.  You're welcome, handsome.


This $4 merlot is something.  The Sheriff was shocked it was a 4-Buck Chuck.


I'm still butt-hurt the Whole Foods isn't open until Fall 2011.


And I should have looked for composting structures while at Home Depot today.  But I didn't.  Fail.  Sorry Mother Nature.


Oh, and our washer and dryers are being delivered next Sunday.  Because when I called yesterday, that was their soonest availability.  Yes, I should have called while in Hometown, Oregon, but I didn't think about it - Plus, I was up to my ears in stain.  So thank goodness this blogger has enough underwear to get through a natural disaster.  Because I don't need donations of underwear on my doorstep.  Not yet at least.  Unless you guys are sponsoring Victoria's Secret.  By all means then.

Friday Fill-In #12

Guess who's totally ready for Friday's Fill-In???  This blogger!

I know my family gets tired of these, or at least my Brother does (he doesn't consider them real "posts"), but I love to see what the other milbloggers come up with.  So if you're new to the milblogging community (old-ass wife or newbie girlfriend), hop over to Wife of a Sailor and join in on the Friday fun.  Trust us, considering we do this every Friday!

1) Do you set goals for yourself during deployment?  What are some of them?

I'll be honest, we've never encountered a real deployment.  We're currently "militarily separated" as he's out playing in the water somewhere, for some time frame unknown, so if this is any hint at what deployments will be like...I'm going to be super bored.  But it doesn't help that I'm not at home, and I don't have crafting projects lined up, and I don't have a job yet.  So things better change by then!

2) What would you say to someone dating a military guy or gal?

Welcome to the club!

Umm, yes, life will suck sometimes.  Yes, travel plans will be rearrange especially when Hometown, Oregon can't handle the fog like San Francisco can and you get delayed 2 days, thus cutting down your time together to 5 days before you have to come back to Oregon because of a job, because living together wasn't an option, because Florida and Mrs. Wookie aren't meant to be together.  I'm still bitter, can you tell??

And please, please, please don't lose your ability to handle liquor at a NAVY BALL.  This is not the time to charge towards the toilet because you're reliving your 20th birthday.  I don't like standing outside the stall, drink in hand, asking if you're dying, explaining to everyone outside that you're not in fact dying, and waiting for the taxi to come to take your ass away.  Again, still bitter.

3) If you have children, how do you prepare them to move to a new place?

Ummm..."Hey, offspring, we're moving.  Get your shit together."

Oh, does this not work?  Well in the words of How I Met Your Mother, this is Future Lily's Mrs. Wookie's problem.

4) Name one hobby that gets your through alone time?

Currently, staining furniture.  And shopping for a dining room set.  I don't think I'm being a pain in the ass to want a rectangular, pub height table (42"), that seats 6, but that leafs down to 4 so I can relocate the other 2 barstools to my kitchen bar.  But apparently the Furniture Gods think I'm demanding.

5) What's the one food you don't ever get tired of?

Honey Nut Cheerios. :)  I've been eating these for breakfast for well over a decade.  I'll vary some mornings with oatmeal or cream-of-wheat, or maybe bacon and eggs.  But my go-to favorite for cholesterol-lowering deliciousness is with that cute, little bee.

Thanks Middle Sister.

Me: "Wow, Beyonce is turning 29.  I thought she was older.  I feel so unaccomplished."

Middle Sister: "At least you don't have a big ass."

Blogger is being a bitch today.

Well...I was going to show you the latest project while in Hometown, Oregon, but Blogger is being a butt-puppet and not uploading my pictures.  So I guess I'll just have to tell you about it until uploading resumes.

Back in 1997, I inherited my grandparents' bedroom furniture.  Until now, I haven't needed the full 5-piece set so they've been on loan to my parents.  Well...come a wonderful PCS to California, my still not owning a dresser (I lived out of plastic bins in Virginia for a year and a half, but then totally returned them to Walmart right before we left for full refund - champion, I tell you!), I gave my 2-months notice to my mom that I'm taking my goods.   I also feel the need to break into song and dance about "I made up my mind, I'm keeping my baby furniture."

So over the past few days I've been sanding, staining, and new hardware-ing my new possessions.  Because walnut-colored bedroom furniture is not what Wookie & Co. prefers.  We like sleek, contemporary fixtures.  So black stain it is.  And brushed nickel hardware.  Thanks Home Depot for both.  Prices not announced (let's just say hardware is more expensive than I would have thought).

Today is hopefully our finally day of modernizing as I'm super tired of wearing the same nasty, painting clothes and I just want to eat Jackson Creek pizza.  This is the payment to both Middle Sister and Baby Sister for their assistance.  New furniture would cost $1,000+ (our taste just happens to be expensive).  Updated furniture = Home Depot + buying lunch for sister.  Plus a little sweat.  And with me not working at the moment, I'll sweat all I can.  I mean glow.  Girls don't sweat.

Hopefully Blogger will have their shiznit together when this is all done so I can brag about how I'm never going to update furniture again (this will probably be a lie).  This is just a bitch of a process that I'll weigh heavily the cost to pay someone to do this for me.  But it's all for the end-of-the-tunnel vision.  And that'll be Mr. Wookie coming home to a bedroom with a full set of furniture.  But an apartment that still lacks a dining room table and other seating.  Oh well, in the words of What About Bob?..."Baby Steps."

I forgot what it's like to be militarily single.

I've been in Hometown, Oregon, for more than a week now, and while I'm getting back to what it's like to not have direct access to Mr. Wookie...I forgot how un-reachable the Navy can make Mr. Wookie.  Oh, the lessons you learn out of Flight School.  I kinda miss that safety bubble.

But I have heard from Mr. Wookie a few times, so at least communication is there however intermittent.

He seems to be doing well, despite how bored he is when he's not working and when the Internet is spotty.  I've been doing my part in Oregon looking for patio furniture, a dining room table and chairs, and anything else that we need in our empty ass place.  Mr. Wookie is playing the typical male role with, "I trust your judgment with these matters."  What the heck???  Since when did you become a Senatorial Candidate, throwing those lame ass political statements at me???  You're lucky I don't hold grudges, boy! :)

But he says he's enjoying himself, as much as he can without the non-stop attachment to online gaming programs, ESPN, our movie catalog, and a larger bed than a boat can provide.

It was cute before he left, we had to hit up Bed, Bath & Beyond for twin sheets, a twin comforter, and a bathrobe.  The real Navy definitely isn't like going back to school.  Because I would love to have a list of everything he needs before he leaves, like you find in Office Depot and Staples for back-to-school shopping.  Just not on that neon paper - you can't recycle that stuff.

He also had his first catapult shot during this time away, which I knew would be a landmark occasion.  He said it "will blow your mind hole."  Umm, okay.  I'll remember that...the next time I'm clutching for my life on a pansy roller coaster cursing your name.  I get talked into these terroristic "adventure" outings while he gets paid to play.

But I fear that I'll be coming back down to California without all the goodies I want.  Dining room furniture has been disappointing.  I want a pub height (42" high), that holds 4-6 depending on an expansion leaf.  Then we'd shift 2 of the chairs to our kitchen bar so we don't have to buy real bar stools.  But the only thing I've found is counter height (36" high) so the game is "To settle or Not to settle?"  Patio furniture has been non-existent as Lowe's, Home Depot, and Sears have all put their stock back into warehouse.  Damn you, Southern Oregon!  So we'll see if the only contending patio set is still available at the NEX when Mr. Wookie gets back.  Oh, and I can't forget that we need a BBQ.  Because a Man's Domain ceases to exist without propane, meat, and Tim Taylor grunts.

So welcome to my lame world of military detachment.  I know this is by no means what others are facing.  But I like to hear about everyone's dealings with the military, so I'm sharing my end.  I'm just feeling displaced as we don't have a furnished living arrangement, and I'm striking out on my goals for Oregon.  Fail.  At least I have my morning coffee.  Can't take that.

And I'm back in the South?

While Middle Sister and I were out running errands today, we spotted this beauty.  An El Camino with truck tires.  And a booming American flag outta the back.  Stay classy, Southern Oregon.  Stay classy.

TAG, this Ging is it.

The fabulous NavyGirl tagged me this morning in this circling hit...

1. If you could have any superpower, what would you have? Why?



I'd be Elizabeth Montgomery, in Bewitched.  Twitch my nose and make stuff happen.  Dinner, laundry, resume writing, surge tours/deployments...have them all over in the blink of an eye twitch of my nose.


2. Who is your style icon?
 

Jennifer Garner

Her casual looks make me drool.  No, I'm not pregnant.  This is not why I chose her.  But she can glam it up when work requires.  And her husband is cute.  And her kids too.  And she watches baseball.  Go Bo Sox.


3. What is your favorite quote?

"Be the change you wish to see in the world."  - Gandhi

I'm so convinced of the need to reduce our landfill dependency that I refer to my conservation efforts as "Deep-End Hippie" movements.  I can't help that I recycle everything, or that I buy eco-friendly items like shampoo, tooth paste, mouthwash, toilet paper, paper towels, detergent, and beer.  It's this internal conviction that just won't shut off.  But don't expect to see me with an "The end is near" sandwich board on the street.  I'm not that person.


4. What is the best compliment you’ve ever received?


I'm the best thing that ever happened to Mr. Wookie.

Hehe, I agree.  And I'm thankful for him, too.

5. What playlist/CD is in your iPod/CD player right now?


Ummm, well I have XM radio...so this isn't really applicable to me.  Buuuuut, I do love when "Soul Sister" by Train comes on because the whole family starts screaming/singing.  We're like the Griswolds meets Harry and the Hendersons.  And proud of it.


6. Are you a night owl or a morning person?


Morning.  Hands down.  By 9:30, I'm dying for my bed.  Or at least, a horizontal surface to become unconscious.  This obviously breeds the 6:00am rise 'n shine GOOD MORNING VIETNAM!

Mr. Wookie is not convinced with this schedule.  However, his stomach appreciates the morning coffee and breakfast right as he wakes up.  You're welcome.


7. Do you prefer dogs or cats?


Well...I prefer cats.  Mr. Wookie...prefers dog.  So with that...we'll be getting a cat sometime next year (adoption from a local organization, for all those cat fiens).  Then after Mr. Wookie deploys, we'll be acquiring a dog to balance out the house.  And yes, this will also be a rescue effort.  We're not into furthering the puppy mill bank accounts.  For further information on the wonderful world and need of adopting, visit my fellow blogger here.

 8. What is the meaning behind your blog name?

Wookie & Co. is pretty self-explanatory.  His name is Wookie.  With the addition of this long-time girlfriend, he's now "Mr. Wookie."  It's not catchy, but then again we're not catchy people.  My blog isn't meant to garner huge readership, it's just a way to keep in touch with family.  I'm just apparently very funny, or maybe it's that people feel sorry for me, so blog hits have increased.  Yay.  But I'm very thankful to those who do take the 2.2 minutes out of their day to read about our life.  A sincere thanks to everyone!

Now let's tag some peoples...

My Baby Sister

Mommy McD

One Guy in a House of Girls

Unexpected Army Life

Unethical Bay

Way-Out West

Now let me get back to my renovation project.  You'll see more this afternoon.  But first, I need more coffee.  This morning won't start itself.  Even though I've already been for a run.  Happy Tuesday!

Saturday Wine Tasting

What's better than Game Day Saturday vs. TCU??  Ummm, wine tasting at the Harry & David flagship store here in Medford, Oregon.  Where do we sign up??

So for starters, we jaywalked across a 5-lane highway.  No big deal.  We've got the Sheriff with us.  We're immune.

The white tent is where all the action happens.  Over 30 vendors, $15 per person entry fee, and a souvenir glass.  The buzz is free.  If you can handle it.  And we can.  We're professional.

The nightmare of the entry line.

But...amidst the action...there was a Captain Phil sighting in the band playing on location.  By the side, the guitarist totally looks like the late Captain.  I would have gone up to ask for a picture with him, but we hadn't started drinking yet so my confidence was low.

As you can tell, we're rockin' our Orange (and the Sheriff in white) on behalf of Game Day. There were a few "Spew of O" duck feathers, but the Beavers represented much more in mass.  Glad we went to the proper school.

The merlots and Cabs were fantastic, although the prices weren't always in the "unemployed mindset."  I'm not working, people.  I like those sub-$20 wines.  Although my palette likes the $35+ crowd.  Damn it!

Amidst our touring, of course we meeted and greeted with the other Oregon State fans that graced the event.  Well...because of our choice for such a fine university, these other  Beaver Fans decided to donate their extra drink coupons (because they were leaving) to us.  Woohoooooooo!!!

So obviously we welcomed in putting a liver to extra use.  Can't be rude.

But before we leave, we hit up the Jelly Bean carousel of sampling.

Dr. Stacey Kervorkian landed the "Is it licorice or skunk spray?"  As did I.

Sheriff ended up with the "Is it popcorn or rotten egg?"  It, thankfully, was popcorn.

But we survived.  Just in time for kick off.  So let's go Beavs.  Make us proud!

Me talk random today.

I've been perusing Craigslist this week looking for everything from kayaks to bikes to composters to leather couches and beyond.  I wouldn't mind picking up things while in Oregon because they'll be a.) previously enjoyed, and b.) cheaper in Oregon than California.  Plus buying anything in Oregon avoids that annoying sales tax that California has.

Tomorrow will be a great day because not only will I be attending wine tasting in the area, but Saturday marks opening day for BEAVER FOOTBALL.  We're a little jazzed in this household considering we're more than just bandwagon fans.  We're alumni.  Proud alumni.

I'm in the hole to Brother and Sister-in-Law as they made breakfast this past Wednesday after the SIL and I went out walking that morning. I feel babysitting duty coming up.  And I won't mind.  As long as Little Man is having a good day.  And there's no poop.

I have one more week in Hometown, Oregon, before I head back down to California.  This excites me as I'll be starting my search for employment to ease the boredom I face during the day.  Really, unemployment is only fun when there's a trust fund involved.  Otherwise I just go into "Cheap Ging" overdrive and pinch pennies harder than a vice grip.

For the past year or so, I've been interested in using eye cream as I creep closer towards that stupid 30-year-old age bracket. Suck. But I don't know anyone who uses any...so I don't have any reviews.

I really hope that I can start composting in California (vermiculture for those who are interested) and can curb the even minute amount of trash that the Wookie & Co. household makes.  Sometimes I wish I weren't as eco-conscious as I am, but I can't help it.  It's my only OCD condition and I have to embrace it.  But first let me wash my hands.  With Mrs. Meyers eco-friendly soap.

I'm not sure what I think about Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta.  Can you really move the class and pizazz of New York City to Atlanta?  I'm not sure if it can suffice in comparison.  I mean, Kleinfeld's is Kleinfeld's.  People come there from all over.  Who wants to go to Atlanta and sweat their ass off in the heat and humidity???  Yes, I'd like this gown with the pit stains.  Thanks.

My ass is numb right now.  I've been sitting on the floor since my laptop is charging and I need to be close to the wall outlet. Boo.

The Sheriff just came to me with the "I thirst" eyes.  It's only 4:26pm.  My rule is: Beverage at 4:50pm.  Unless your day is from Hell.  Then that's a free pass to anything.  But until I find work, and am incredibly stressed, and having events change at last notice, I don't need to drive home like a maniac and pound the vodka like a bum.  I'm on vacation now.  I have no stress.

So the Ging almost forgets another Friday Fill-In...woops!

Without any normalcy in my life, I keep forgetting about these pesky things.  Nothing personal, but obviously I can't wait to get back to my routine in life.  But until, you get to hear about my vacation relaxation in Oregon and how I have nothing to do with my day.  I'm bored.  But I'll enjoy this break in life as much as the next milblogger.

So head over to Wife of a Sailor for Friday's fun.  And maybe you'll find more bloggers with me to stalk as I make something more out of today.

1. What is a weird/funny superstition that you have? (from A{muse}ing Mommy on a Pink Park Bench)

I'm terrified to talk about anything good in life, because I have a feeling it will all crumble around me.  I didn't blog about all the houses we toured because I didn't think we'd find a place.  I didn't blog about my job search in detail in Virginia because I was wary about landing something in there economic times.  I'm very scared that I'll jinx it all and then I'll be left to blog about nothing!  So then I just ramble at you (which you'll experience this afternoon - you're welcome).

2. What are your hopes and dreams for the years AFTER the military? After all, we aren’t in it forever! (from Stetsons, Spurs and Stilettos)

As much as I want to settle some place in Oregon, there's something about vagabonding your time together.  I like seeing the country.  This is a lifestyle that not everyone can handle, so I like to grab it by the horns.

I don't know what we'll do, as this is a long-away thought.  Mr. Wookie's commitment just started last December (the E-2 platform is very long, even though he's been in for 3 years) so talk to me in 5 years.  Maybe I'll have a better estimate.

3. Since [this] month is National Apple Month (no really!), I’d probably ask: What is your yummiest apple recipe? (from NH Girl Displaced)

Besides the standard apple pie (which homemade crust is a bitch to make so I usually make a cobbler or crumble), I just like to make sure there's cognac or some other flavorful adult liquid in whatever it is that I make.  I look out for my tastebuds. :D

4. How long have you gone as a military spouse without talking to your husband/wife during service? (from A Navy Princess and Her Little Sailors)

Oooooo, this is something I don't track/haven't had the pleasure of tracking since all of our time apart was spent voluntarily with flight school (I'm still not the biggest fan of Pensacola).  But since we're now in the "real" Navy (I say "real" because I felt that flight school was a protective shell from the future of deployments.  I was nice.  I don't miss it since we were able to get off the East Coast, but it was a fun time for us.), I should probably start charting these fun facts.  Oh joy.

5. I occasionally watch When I was 17… on MTV. So, what was something that was significant about your 17th year of life? (from Ashley Amazing)

Hmmm...this would have been my junior year of high school (I'm an October birthday), so my class load wasn't anything special.  I did take the Senior year-required Economics course a year early, so that was a little different.  I wasn't working since I was playing sports (basketball and softball).  I wasn't really thinking about college.  I didn't go to school dances (until my Senior Homecoming and Prom) because I thought they were lame (HC and Prom were very lame - it was disappointing).  And my stubborn hippie sense of self wasn't developed at all as I probably threw away soda cans.  So pretty much, boring.

I hope my favorite people in Virginia Beach, Virginia, are enjoying the weather as Hurricane Earl forces gallons of water down their throats.  Maybe they're stalking a little Sam Champion (from Good Morning America) action while he's reporting the weather on the beach.  If so, throw a picture my way.  He's kinda cute.