tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39745195967742572902024-03-12T20:46:15.101-04:00A Woman, Her Cats, and Some Books<p>Every day I read, hear, or think of things that I feel other people would want to see and discuss. This is my space for sharing them. It's my experiment for whether or not I'm right.</p>
<p>I'll also throw some book recs in there since that's how this all started in the first place.</p>Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.comBlogger159125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-71675090166584394312013-02-11T08:00:00.000-05:002013-02-11T08:00:03.253-05:00Last Reminder!<br />
The move to the <a href="http://www.thirstynerdycats.com/" target="_blank">new blog</a> is official!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn9s7hyphenhyphen2dAfVcpGCmv2z2QH1kBlAUjjkDATQpgeyalSuOc0gDz3AxICov-ihQpwbjG3FDF0r1jS9cN1Auqm93IBcZxO-Nw-9_wLwoHbm_XPvFyluvcwery9IXMYfRYHEebXef-2qOp-Jh/s1600/Announcement+for+Old+Blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn9s7hyphenhyphen2dAfVcpGCmv2z2QH1kBlAUjjkDATQpgeyalSuOc0gDz3AxICov-ihQpwbjG3FDF0r1jS9cN1Auqm93IBcZxO-Nw-9_wLwoHbm_XPvFyluvcwery9IXMYfRYHEebXef-2qOp-Jh/s400/Announcement+for+Old+Blog.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you want to keep enjoying the awesomeness that is my blog (I'm modest, I know) please update your link / RSS feed / find the new blog on Bloglovin / change whatever you do to follow me to<a href="http://www.thirstynerdycats.com/" target="_blank"> the new website</a>! I'll stop posting here as of right now.<br />
<br />
It's a little risky to switch everything so I hope you all will be wonderful and follow me over there.<br />
<br />
www.thirstynerdycats.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" /><br />
<br />
<br />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-11388715250191784502013-02-08T08:00:00.000-05:002013-02-08T08:00:10.719-05:00Just a Reminder...<br />
The move to the <a href="http://www.thirstynerdycats.com/" target="_blank">new blog</a> is official!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn9s7hyphenhyphen2dAfVcpGCmv2z2QH1kBlAUjjkDATQpgeyalSuOc0gDz3AxICov-ihQpwbjG3FDF0r1jS9cN1Auqm93IBcZxO-Nw-9_wLwoHbm_XPvFyluvcwery9IXMYfRYHEebXef-2qOp-Jh/s1600/Announcement+for+Old+Blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn9s7hyphenhyphen2dAfVcpGCmv2z2QH1kBlAUjjkDATQpgeyalSuOc0gDz3AxICov-ihQpwbjG3FDF0r1jS9cN1Auqm93IBcZxO-Nw-9_wLwoHbm_XPvFyluvcwery9IXMYfRYHEebXef-2qOp-Jh/s400/Announcement+for+Old+Blog.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you want to keep enjoying the awesomeness that is my blog (I'm modest, I know) please update your link / RSS feed / find the new blog on Bloglovin / change whatever you do to follow me to<a href="http://www.thirstynerdycats.com/" target="_blank"> the new website</a>! I'll stop posting here as of right now.<br />
<br />
It's a little risky to switch everything so I hope you all will be wonderful and follow me over there.<br />
<br />
www.thirstynerdycats.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" /><br />
Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-7303250476978634092013-02-06T19:00:00.000-05:002013-02-06T19:01:28.623-05:00Check out the new blog!The move to the <a href="http://www.thirstynerdycats.com/" target="_blank">new blog</a> is official! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn9s7hyphenhyphen2dAfVcpGCmv2z2QH1kBlAUjjkDATQpgeyalSuOc0gDz3AxICov-ihQpwbjG3FDF0r1jS9cN1Auqm93IBcZxO-Nw-9_wLwoHbm_XPvFyluvcwery9IXMYfRYHEebXef-2qOp-Jh/s1600/Announcement+for+Old+Blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn9s7hyphenhyphen2dAfVcpGCmv2z2QH1kBlAUjjkDATQpgeyalSuOc0gDz3AxICov-ihQpwbjG3FDF0r1jS9cN1Auqm93IBcZxO-Nw-9_wLwoHbm_XPvFyluvcwery9IXMYfRYHEebXef-2qOp-Jh/s400/Announcement+for+Old+Blog.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you want to keep enjoying the awesomeness that is my blog (I'm modest, I know) please update your link / RSS feed / find the new blog on Bloglovin / change whatever you do to follow me to<a href="http://www.thirstynerdycats.com/" target="_blank"> the new website</a>! I'll stop posting here as of right now.<br />
<br />
It's a little risky to switch everything so I hope you all will be wonderful and follow me over there.<br />
<br />
www.thirstynerdycats.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-52043151020349420702013-02-03T15:52:00.001-05:002013-02-03T15:52:16.889-05:00Big Changes!Hello friends!<br />
<br />
If you're a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/awomanhercatsandsomebooks" target="_blank">fan of the Facebook page</a>, you probably saw this post on Friday night:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIZsJI0Dlf3vNhwR89YXBxamqkpws57Umal5c2t4BfzvUM05iulHa6BRROaT3yK5oD1z8C1h5KRf9Mu_759S3vR_1AjmplJYhK7KoA8CywsaHsMMuWkmQLige1fvb-yKA7MfX9-TGu7wI/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIZsJI0Dlf3vNhwR89YXBxamqkpws57Umal5c2t4BfzvUM05iulHa6BRROaT3yK5oD1z8C1h5KRf9Mu_759S3vR_1AjmplJYhK7KoA8CywsaHsMMuWkmQLige1fvb-yKA7MfX9-TGu7wI/s1600/Untitled.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stay tuned. I'll be a bit MIA while I get everything switched over - no Monday Reminder tomorrow - but I should be up and running with a new web address and blog site by Friday! I've got a big link up coming up on Thursday that I'm super excited about and I hope to have something going on with the new site by then.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until then, hang in there... like the Facebook page to stay on top of the changes... and get excited for the new look and blog. I'm pumped!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-46114830011156681942013-01-29T08:00:00.000-05:002013-01-29T08:00:14.660-05:00Reflections on Being a Quintessential Twenty-Something<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I stumbled across an article a few weeks ago that I knew I must read – and comment on – but until now hadn't found the time to do so.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The <a href="http://www.newyorker.com/arts/critics/atlarge/2013/01/14/130114crat_atlarge_heller?mobify=0" target="_blank">article</a>, entitled Semi-Charmed Life, was published in the New Yorker by Nathan Heller. <a href="http://www.newyorker.com/arts/critics/atlarge/2013/01/14/130114crat_atlarge_heller?mobify=0" target="_blank">Take the time to read it if you have a chance</a>.* It's amazing.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ok, you back (or still here)? Good.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The article looks at twenty-something-ness as a unique phase in everyone’s lives. It talks about how this phase in our life is special because it is so varied – all of us are doing so many different things, someone of us are doing it all at once, and somehow that draws us together. Parts of the article stuck out to me as hitting a proverbial nail on the head.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I draw much closer to the end of my 20s than the beginning, I've spent a lot of time thinking about where I’ve come from and where I’ll be in a few years. </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i style="color: #a64d79; font-family: inherit;">I entered my 20s a college student – over worked, over tired, over partied, over committed, overly single, and probably with a checking account nearly over drawn. </i></li>
<li><i style="color: #741b47; font-family: inherit;">My early-mid 20s were spent slaving away at a job I hated in order to pay the bills. </i></li>
<li><i style="color: #a64d79; font-family: inherit;">I quit said job in my still early-mid-20s to go back to being overly broke and started grad school – I was again a full time student, working two full time jobs, and in a truly terrible relationship.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #741b47; font-family: inherit;">I spent most of my mid-20s focusing on my career. My checking account was still over drawn half the time but I was working my ass off at something I loved and - too be honest - having way to good of a time.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #a64d79; font-family: inherit;">With the recent move (and the entry into the definite late-20s of my life), I’ve refocused a little. I’m still working hard, doing something I love, but I’m also focusing on my relationships more, building up that bank account, and losing the weight that comes along with having a good time.</i></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s hard to think that all of that can happen in less than 7 years. Harder yet to believe that all of my best friends could describe very different paths in their 20s and yet all of our experiences resonate with one another – we are all drawn together even if nothing about our lives appears to meld well.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">At one point, Heller says that one of the most interesting part of everyone’s 20s is that “Where you start out—rich or poor, rustic or urbane—won’t determine where you end up, perhaps, but it will determine how you get there.” This could not be more true. <u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The article also mentions a clinical psychologist who observes that – contrary to the carefree attitude that people see in 20-somethings – as a whole we are horribly unsatisfied. We feel that our lives are not what we hoped for. I think my meandering path above demonstrates that I have felt the same way. There are defining moments in that story – literal “wake up in the morning and realize something has to change” moments – where I was so unsatisfied that I was willing to give everything up to make a change. And I did. Multiple times.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So where am I going with all of this? That is the ultimate question, isn’t it? I may have almost 2 years left to my 20s but I’m already feeling the pressure to figure it out. Thankfully, these days, the 30s are the new 20s so I have a few years to get there. The article even addresses that fact. In the 90s, the "it-girls" on TV were like Ally McBeal - late 20-something, desperate, single women. Today, the "freak out timeline" focuses more on the Liz Lemon's of the world - late 30s. As the article states: "</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">There’s no shame now in being a twentysomething without imminent family plans, and there may even be extra power."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Near the end of the article, Heller makes this observation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u></u><u></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Twentysomething culture is intimate and exclusive on the one hand, and eternal on the other. We tout this stage of life, in retrospect, as free, although we ogle the far shores of adulthood while we’re there.</b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I read those sentences, it suddenly all made sense to me. Why this stage in my life is so special. Why I feel the need to write about it on the blog that so few people read. Why I strive to improve with each new step I take.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We live in a world where almost everything about it is readily available to virtual strangers. At the same time, we know more than ever about how to shape that intimacy. That's what this blog is all about, isn't it? Putting my thoughts out into the world in a way that truly expresses what is on my heart. I am able to express <i>myself</i> - no one can take that away. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have the freedom every day to do what I want still. I have no husband, no children, at home to answer to. And yet, as I near the end of the 20s, I've come to realize that that "far shore of adulthood" isn't so far away afterall. That maybe it's ok to be anchored down a little.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>*Did you miss the post on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/awomanhercatsandsomebooks" target="_blank">my Facebook page</a> with the link last week? Make sure you like the page so you don't miss anything in the future!<u></u></i></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-88222374174572084032013-01-28T08:00:00.000-05:002013-01-28T08:00:12.180-05:00Monday Reminder: Never Lose Faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8DFfnDQnLQwBJq9_tjqriqUVJQ0SI1YC4vf5tL26sgx4Fai18msCAnlPrteFVpJNSIbpG8Kc1xsmtMQP5Ylfwhd1y4TXK4qYHJ5vNtepubGQOXpOVX46olSihfngOcYPoTExhsQWrXGF/s1600/Never+lose+faith+-+Unknown.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8DFfnDQnLQwBJq9_tjqriqUVJQ0SI1YC4vf5tL26sgx4Fai18msCAnlPrteFVpJNSIbpG8Kc1xsmtMQP5Ylfwhd1y4TXK4qYHJ5vNtepubGQOXpOVX46olSihfngOcYPoTExhsQWrXGF/s320/Never+lose+faith+-+Unknown.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Never lose faith, never lose heart. There is always something unexpected and wonderful just around the bend. -Unknown</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-80218828283424149722013-01-21T08:00:00.000-05:002013-01-21T08:00:12.152-05:00Monday Reminder: Choose Your Own (Adventure)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK4ZNHAUWyaAy5GBLM3X0KUS8q61I7b8ujRLcyZUhR4Vs4ZquYTXirxUKd28jsnjLxDCTpvK1eNXIn97bAt3FzsrrI-stHDkQhPAZR4EN3uoA4AeWjiEgH558KDyVbjLpyHTq80z2ORX4w/s1600/Choose+your+own+lifestyle+-+Susan+Polis+Schutz.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK4ZNHAUWyaAy5GBLM3X0KUS8q61I7b8ujRLcyZUhR4Vs4ZquYTXirxUKd28jsnjLxDCTpvK1eNXIn97bAt3FzsrrI-stHDkQhPAZR4EN3uoA4AeWjiEgH558KDyVbjLpyHTq80z2ORX4w/s1600/Choose+your+own+lifestyle+-+Susan+Polis+Schutz.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is so important to choose your own lifestyle and not let others choose it for you. - Susan Polis Schutz</span><br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-14795424180130984262013-01-20T20:18:00.001-05:002013-01-20T20:18:56.888-05:00Musings on a Sunday Evening<br />
<ul>
<li>I spent the weekend visiting my boyfriend. It is beyond wonderful to see him every week, even if we're still few hours apart and "every week" sometimes means "for an hour for dinner on a random week night." This weekend we saw each other Friday, Saturday and Sunday so no complaints. I also get to see him on Tuesday so I'm a happy girl this week! </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>It is freaking cold outside in Wisconsin right now. I'm handling the cold much better than I expected but my skin is like a lizard. Disgustingly gross and dry. If I'm handling the cold, my skin definitely isn't. I have super sensitive skin so I have to be careful with some products but I'm open to suggestions. <b>Have you found anything that truly combats these nasty Northern winters?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>The boyfriend gave me the official Ugg slippers for Christmas. I can say that I would never have spent the money on them myself but they are amazing and I don't think I could go without anymore. My feet are <i>never </i>cold anymore. It was the perfect Christmas present - something I did actually need, but a nicer version than I would pay for on my own so it's a little bit of luxury too. He did good. <b>What has proven to be your favorite present from the holidays?</b></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.uggaustralia.com/womens-dakota-sheepskin-slippers/5612,default,pd.html?dwvar_5612_color=PWTR&dwvar_5612_size=05&start=3&cgid=womens-slippers" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo slipper_zps8a0b48b3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/slipper_zps8a0b48b3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>I'm thinking of doing my first giveaway in the near future. What would you like to win? <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/awomanhercatsandsomebooks" target="_blank">Visit and like the Facebook page</a> to share some ideas.</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>I am joining the YMCA tomorrow on a quest to get in better shape, lose some of the weight I gained while living in Kentucky, and simply get more healthy. Oh and I have it in my head that I want to do a short duathlon this summer. I must be crazy. <b>Any suggestions on how to stay motivated?</b></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
Is that the most random post you've ever read? Probably. Just some thoughts for you this evening!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-91708519308646274192013-01-17T07:30:00.000-05:002013-01-17T07:30:00.787-05:00How I Became a Cat PersonAfter <a href="http://awomanhercatsandsomebooks.blogspot.com/2013/01/happy-anniversary-charlie.html" target="_blank">Tuesday night's anniversary post</a>, I figured it was worth taking a moment to share Lady Bug adoption story too. <br />
<br />
I've had Lady for almost 3.5 years. Like I <a href="http://awomanhercatsandsomebooks.blogspot.com/2012/06/happy-birthday-lady-bug.html" target="_blank">shared on her birthday last year</a>, and it's true more today than it was then!, those years have been pretty full. We've lived in five different apartments, in three cities. We've traveled back and forth across the country a couple of times. We adopted a second cat. We've been through some pretty crappy relationships - both romantic and platonic - and had multiple jobs.<br />
<br />
I adopted Lady after a very bad break up.<br />
<br />
Or let me rephrase that. I adopted Lady after I thought a really bad relationship was ending. It dragged on for much longer than I care to admit after that. But the first end to that relationship was definitely the catalyst to adopting her in the first place.<br />
<br />
My apartment seemed so empty and I was looking for something to love - something that wouldn't cheat on me, that would be an asshole, that wouldn't tell me that <i>every single things I did </i>was wrong. I was much more of a dog person - truthfully, I still am - but my apartment didn't technically allow any pets and you can't exactly get away with a dog in a complex like that. Plus I was working about 80 hours a week and going to school full time. Doesn't leave much room for a dog.<br />
<br />
One morning not long after the breakup, my friend Megan and I decided to go to the Humane Society to see if maybe they had a cat for me. I had in my brain that I was looking for a male cat, at least a year old, preferably all grey. People kept telling me I would like cats, to at least give it a try.<br />
<br />
I wasn't all that convinced at first but I came home with a kitten - not at all what I expect. She was a female, four months old, that was grey and pink-ish. In Tuesday's post I talked about how I chose Charlie. In this instance, Lady Bug chose me.<br />
<br />
We played with a lot of cats that day. Kittens that swarmed us, purring and crying, that were quite adorable. An older cat that really just needed someone to love her. Cute little boy cats that tried desperately to fill the void in my heart that I was feeling.<br />
<br />
None of them were my cat.<br />
<br />
Just as we were leaving empty handed, we decided to stop in the kitten room one last time to absorb the cuteness. When we first got there, a little kitten - at the time named Angel - had been sleeping in the corner, completely oblivious to the fact that there was a lady there who might want to play with her. <br />
<br />
The second foray into the kitten room, she shoved her way through the slithering mass of kittens, climbed right onto my lap, stretched up as high as she could, and kissed me right on the nose.<br />
<br />
I was hers. Instantly. Without a moment of hesitation<span style="color: #c27ba0;"> - not at all realizing that my little cat was very, very gassy (trust me, it was gross) - </span>I renamed her Lady <span style="color: #c27ba0;">- she was a prissy little thing and there's isn't an angelic bone in her body - </span>gave her the middle name of Bug <span style="color: #c27ba0;">- it just suited her - </span>and let her into my heart.<br />
<br />
Within a week, she had charmed the football player next door, my best friend, and my family (even if she <i>did </i>run through a plate of chicken parmigiana at Thanksgiving that year). That little thing was so incredibly sick when I brought her home. But with a little bit of love, and a little bit of people food which she still steals to this day (what cat likes pizza, tacos, and spaghetti?!), she has grown into a rather-large, very-loving, kind-of-lazy cat. <br />
<br />
So there is is. I was never a cat person until I fell in love with Lady Bug. It doesn't hurt that she's not a normal cat. She has a lot of personality and she's way too smart. She's leash trained (remember the PetSmart story from Tuesday?). And as crazy as it sounds, she has impeccable sense when it comes to people's character. I trust her judgement... except for when it comes to my sister. My vet-school sister. The only person on the planet Lady hates.<br />
<br />
Now that I've aired all of my "I'm a Crazy Cat Lady" glory on the blog, we can get back to my (ir)regular posting. I'm in the middle of a few different books right now that hopefully I'll finish over the weekend. Keep an eye out for a review in the next couple of days.<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-36364393077864051232013-01-15T19:45:00.001-05:002013-01-15T19:46:00.968-05:00Happy Anniversary, Charlie!Here we are in the middle of January and I've written twice. Ugh. I say this a lot - maybe I should take that as a sign that I need to stop this whole thing - but blogging feels like a chore lately.<br />
<br />
Today though, we're celebrating a special anniversary in my house and it's worth writing about. (Nope, not a dating anniversary. I honestly have no idea when that would be celebrated. We are the worst couple ever.)<br />
<br />
Two years ago today, I adopted this little fluff ball.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2o3u0yUdhqgLwhRs-g7-yqDOkIKOlil4h0QMfTtXQfUAbQp2Twoh2pxyyX2kKLCGmaTp4pgDeP6L2Bm640jmfrbqFYdBNSV38-csK6QOxiDb_Y8AEglw7KmG6f2uojh6e65jEAiJDo6A/s1600/Charlie+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO2o3u0yUdhqgLwhRs-g7-yqDOkIKOlil4h0QMfTtXQfUAbQp2Twoh2pxyyX2kKLCGmaTp4pgDeP6L2Bm640jmfrbqFYdBNSV38-csK6QOxiDb_Y8AEglw7KmG6f2uojh6e65jEAiJDo6A/s400/Charlie+011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She was so cute and teeny...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few days ago, a good friend of mine shared her <a href="http://kpquepasa.blogspot.com/2013/01/fabu-feline-friday.html" target="_blank">"how my crazy cat joined the family"</a> story and in that same spirit, I decided to share the story about how Charlie joined us.<br />
<br />
Let's think back two years ago for a moment. I had been living in Lexington for almost a year. I still had about three friends total - and I use that term "friends" very loosely. Lady Bug (the only cat I thought I ever wanted) and I had just spent 1.5 weeks in Green Bay with my parents, their dog, my sister, her now-husband, their dog and their cat. Needless to say, Lady Bug and I were lonely.<br />
<br />
Exactly two years ago, on a warm Saturday morning, I ran errands on the side of town that I typically avoided. Because I was in the area, I dropped in at the PetSmart that I very rarely visited. I was seriously was only looking for litter, food, and possibly a fish to cure Lady's boredom. My house was a very strict "No-More-Cats-Than-People" house so it had never even crossed my mind to get a second cat. <br />
<br />
I had been to PetSmart on adoption day about 100 times and never wanted to take another one home. But that Saturday - at the PetSmart I <i>never</i> went to - I found this little teeny thing in need of a home. She was a little ball of white and grey fluff who was too busy playing with her littermates to pay much attention to me. I stood and talked to the foster lady for a while - much like I do every time without ever wanting to take a kitten home - but this time was different.<br />
<br />
I stood there and stared at her for a good half hour before the woman finally convinced me to take her out of the cage.<br />
<br />
As I lifted her out, a dog in the next aisle started barking. The little tiny trembling ball of love curled into my neck and purred her little heart out as if to say, "It's ok. I'm safe here."<br />
<br />
I think my exact words went something along the lines of <i>How much?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I technically left the store without a kitten that day. I had to go home for my checkbook, I tried to talk myself out of getting another cat, and I needed to talk it over with Lady Bug... and yes, I know that sounds insane.<br />
<i><br /></i>
An hour later I got back to the store - Lady Bug in tow since she loved going to PetSmart - hoping that the dear little thing was still there. Thankfully she was. Less 24 hours later, Charlie and Lady were already inseparable. We had become a two cat family.<br />
<br />
Best decision I've ever made. People who say pets need to come in pairs were right. Having two little girls means that I never feel guilty leaving them home alone. They take care of each other. They play together instead of me always having to entertain them. They snuggle together but still take turns snuggling with me. The girls have <i>very</i> different personalities but they compliment each other. I definitely got lucky - I hear horror stories every day about people bringing another animal into their home and it going horribly wrong.<br />
<br />
Funny enough, I truly adopted a kitten - not a cat - that day. Two years later, she's still teeny tiny. She's never weighed more than 7 lbs. She still cries like a lost little baby. She's still got fluffy soft fur and a perfect pink nose. She's still spoiled rotten, doesn't do anything for herself, chases things only she can see, wins over everyone who meets her, and acts like she doesn't have a care in the world. At this age, most cats are adults. Charlie still acts like a baby.<br />
<br />
And she still snuggles into my neck after a long day. It might take her 5 or 6... or 20... tries to get it <i>just right</i> but her favorite place in the whole world is draped across my chest, her head tucked into my neck, purring so loud that I can't hear the TV.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKekSkwFjxb-W-u0j6E7rOmJLYJZbOSHEYeFcHUjYuJPpv7R7db8SzNNBmQ1o1VMHWWZwC57VovUwQU0kX77DK3zN862Q5BDPGuMqauKnAviqNffRnE7leAUO9hEOfeAS52l-PHdCo10zx/s1600/photo+(11).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKekSkwFjxb-W-u0j6E7rOmJLYJZbOSHEYeFcHUjYuJPpv7R7db8SzNNBmQ1o1VMHWWZwC57VovUwQU0kX77DK3zN862Q5BDPGuMqauKnAviqNffRnE7leAUO9hEOfeAS52l-PHdCo10zx/s400/photo+(11).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy 2nd anniversary, Charlie! Thanks for letting me choose you.<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" /><br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>P.S. As I write this, I realize that I've never told Lady Bug's "coming home" story. Stay tuned!</i><br />
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-10839997063388858412013-01-09T07:00:00.000-05:002013-01-09T07:00:14.165-05:00One Word: 2013I know this is really late but I think it's worth sharing anyway.<br />
<br />
When I first heard about the One Word project, I knew I wanted to give it some thought and decide what word I could best use to describe what I want out of 2013.<br />
<br />
If I had chosen a word for 2012, it would have been <i>positivity</i>. It took me a while to think of something that could top that, but I found it.<br />
<br />
I thought about going with <i>trust</i>. I used to trust everyone without questioning. After having that thrown back in my face one too many times, I've had a hard time getting back to trusting others.<br />
I thought about going with <i>happy</i>. I am truly happy right now and I want to keep it that way.<br />
I thought about <i>health</i>. I'm working on some things to get myself in better shape.<br />
I thought about <i>read </i>or <i>write</i> because I really do want to focus on doing more of both of those things this year.<br />
<br />
All of those things fell flat. None of them really expressed what I wanted this year to be about.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIAljqN4szR95BoKZN0jzhgVMQTARVvsvOngZOtOPontCEt52qq2ZbdMbmwbeWra5yez7SfwGrxWNVZmXAxTt71H9FRR-dpOSYn8MdBxQHj0kxDPlXTvfFbD85K046WOrryxbCe3CSJUn/s1600/OneWord365+Heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIAljqN4szR95BoKZN0jzhgVMQTARVvsvOngZOtOPontCEt52qq2ZbdMbmwbeWra5yez7SfwGrxWNVZmXAxTt71H9FRR-dpOSYn8MdBxQHj0kxDPlXTvfFbD85K046WOrryxbCe3CSJUn/s1600/OneWord365+Heart.jpg" /></a></div>
The move back to Wisconsin was a chance for me - for once in my life - to follow my heart instead of my head. To do what felt right instead of what I thought was right. To put myself as a person - not as a student, employee, daughter, or girlfriend - first. I learned very quickly that making this move and listening to what my heart was telling me made me a better <i>everything</i>. I don't need to analyze everything. Sometimes I just need to trust what my instinct is telling me.<br />
<br />
Because of that, 2013 is all about heart. It's actually going to be a tough one for me. But I'm working on it and that's all living the one word is about.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Did you do a One Word post this year? Link it in the comments if you did. I can't wait to encourage everyone to live their word.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b></b><br />
<div mce_style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.oneword365.com/" mce_href="http://www.oneword365.com" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7051" height="125" mce_src="http://oneword365.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/ow300-look1.jpg" src="http://oneword365.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/ow300-look1.jpg" title="One_Word" width="300" /></a></b></div>
<b>
</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-61541846252608240482013-01-07T20:55:00.000-05:002013-01-07T20:55:49.514-05:00A Quick Review of 2012Phew. Now that the holidays are over and I'm a little more settled, I <i>think </i>I might have some more time to focus on the blog. Maybe not because there never seems to be enough hours in the day but I'm going to try. That's all I can promise right now.<br />
<br />
I haven't even had time to write my <a href="http://oneword365.com/" target="_blank">one word</a> post even though I've chosen my word for 2013. I haven't finished any good books even though I'm in the middle of three of them. I never got Christmas cards out. My tree is still up. I have piles of laundry that need to be washed. I've been busy.<br />
<br />
I want to start this year by looking back at 2012, even if I'm a week late. More specifically the last 6 months of 2012. <br />
<br />
I started the year a little lost. I had just been promoted at a job that I truly loved but that I knew I wouldn't be staying in much longer. I spent the first part of the year trying to figure out how I could be happy in a place that simply wasn't home. I started focusing on the positive in my life and finding ways to either cut out the negative or simply make it more positive.<br />
<br />
I spent most of the summer traveling for work and driving back and forth from Kentucky to Wisconsin for weddings, parties, and family functions. I moved into a wonderful studio apartment in Lexington just before the Fourth of July and then traveled home for my sister's wedding.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTDAe5M3LXShUe6BFOZY_Bfbz9A8bvzaL7aZ6jFcKgvTx-rmW2qgAnS5SDcOlOL-huVt7l124uLZbAkRGqISeQqRu3hdHNxLA9Hfn86pBCVXcu6IUa0wotA9DQlM7xG2cPucT3Ab-oZcs/s1600/545525_10100165874997377_1084679072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTDAe5M3LXShUe6BFOZY_Bfbz9A8bvzaL7aZ6jFcKgvTx-rmW2qgAnS5SDcOlOL-huVt7l124uLZbAkRGqISeQqRu3hdHNxLA9Hfn86pBCVXcu6IUa0wotA9DQlM7xG2cPucT3Ab-oZcs/s400/545525_10100165874997377_1084679072_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's be honest - for a variety of reasons, that wedding was the turning point in my year.<br />
<br />
It made me realize that all of the driving back and forth was insane and that I really just wanted to be back by my family and friends. I was missing things that I couldn't stand to miss anymore. It was after the wedding that I started looking for the <i>right job</i> to bring my back to Wisconsin more seriously.<br />
<br />
It was because of the wedding that I met the wonderful man that I am still dating. Who knew that after all the crappy dates I've been on in the random states of lived in the guy that I really wanted to be dating was busy living with my new brother-in-law during college?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYL3agl1ZfvAV4zNAAhGcd2cBrdbPc1iYKsSSSmlGrY9FnDHX3KwGchGatenU0hFKFQkV_saRZ1NgnuSCKqjh9InYj7DD8iXZNRGUiCt8XzMQ4ALo88vb5izekVHxIVN4qpyq8UIuFgbB/s1600/462398_615963572628_1032112668_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYL3agl1ZfvAV4zNAAhGcd2cBrdbPc1iYKsSSSmlGrY9FnDHX3KwGchGatenU0hFKFQkV_saRZ1NgnuSCKqjh9InYj7DD8iXZNRGUiCt8XzMQ4ALo88vb5izekVHxIVN4qpyq8UIuFgbB/s400/462398_615963572628_1032112668_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
2.5 months ago, I decided to take a huge leap of faith. I gave my preliminary notice at work, found someone to sublease my apartment, and applied for a job that I thought I might really like in a place I had never seen before that was only a few hours away from my family and friends (and yes, my boyfriend.) I interviewed for the job, gave my actual notice, and got offered the job a week later. I haven't looked back. I have never once questioned my decision to move back.<br />
<br />
It's hard to believe that I've been back in Wisconsin for 7 weeks already. In some ways, it feels like I've always been here and that the years I spent down South are all a dream. <br />
<br />
If 2012 was all about finding positivity in my life, I think I succeeded. What does 2013 hold for me? Check back Wednesday when I <i>finally </i>get around to revealing my word for the year!<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-39596830333629517792012-12-31T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-31T06:00:12.758-05:00Monday Reminder: New Years Eve Special!In honor of New Years Eve, I think this was especially appropriate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9_kB98GPYv3MtR-XGtJoV7R_z_nT0u2CWL98nKg9Akl7yf6s7VHk0BbgPmKkgPTibxffFZtavx-gwICQO88RIlfoRkb5qr4qWZCW6udaQBbBkISwjt8VtX8-t3DxH3ieNjqWS_Cf5mXz/s1600/12.31.12+Throw+your+dreams+like+a+kite+-+Anais+Nin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9_kB98GPYv3MtR-XGtJoV7R_z_nT0u2CWL98nKg9Akl7yf6s7VHk0BbgPmKkgPTibxffFZtavx-gwICQO88RIlfoRkb5qr4qWZCW6udaQBbBkISwjt8VtX8-t3DxH3ieNjqWS_Cf5mXz/s1600/12.31.12+Throw+your+dreams+like+a+kite+-+Anais+Nin.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country. - Anais Nin</span><br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-25364829042458503582012-12-21T00:51:00.000-05:002012-12-21T00:51:48.267-05:00Cozy Holiday Linkup / Favorite Things FridayEarlier this week, one of my favorite bloggers <a href="http://nichollvincent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Nicholl </a>shared that she and <a href="http://acompletewasteofmakeup.com/" target="_blank">Neely </a>were hosting a link up for today. Considering that Wisconsin get completely dumped on with the winter weather this week, Nicholl and Neely's "Cozy Holiday Linkup" was just the thing I needed! <br />
<br />
(Also, since these photos pretty much also represent everything awesome that happened to me this week, I'm linking up with Lauren like always as well. Even if it's not my top 5... because let's be real, narrowing down 5 favorite cozy things is impossible... it's pretty true to my original <a href="http://awomanhercatsandsomebooks.blogspot.com/search/label/Favorite%20Things%20Friday" target="_blank">Favorite Things Friday</a> posts I was doing way back when and since I used to link up then, I'm stretching the rules and doing so again.)<br />
<br />
Ok, without further ado... <b>Rikki's Favorite Cozy Things that Happen to be Posted on a Friday. </b> Or something like that...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0kEid7m9E4QHvNeKQqrNbiMW7vOjW64lJADmPWAq-sLylWzXzjKF3dAvINb8uIQpjosq4ffKFRmouGPxTPmGPbr4_n6JN8yXv4S6EOUi0ola7Z3awGh4QqEecMzTXnK7eiyFbJMFnPVW/s1600/My+Cozy+Things.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0kEid7m9E4QHvNeKQqrNbiMW7vOjW64lJADmPWAq-sLylWzXzjKF3dAvINb8uIQpjosq4ffKFRmouGPxTPmGPbr4_n6JN8yXv4S6EOUi0ola7Z3awGh4QqEecMzTXnK7eiyFbJMFnPVW/s1600/My+Cozy+Things.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I wrote this post as the wind whistled outside, a pie was in the oven, the girls were sleeping in a little ball on a stool in the kitchen, I was wearing a fuzzy sweater with fuzzy socks and leggings, and I was singing along to Christmas music... if that doesn't spell cozy, I don't know what does.<br />
<br />
Happy holidays, friends! I doubt I'll get around to writing this weekend but you never know. If not, have a wonderful weekend!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.frommygreydeskblog.com/2012/01/high-five-for-friday-button.html"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd361/lauren_FMGD/H54Fbutton.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-56082336388971602432012-12-19T21:33:00.000-05:002012-12-19T21:37:56.778-05:00Just a Little Something We Can Do...A few days ago, while reading through some of my favorite blogs, I stumbled upon a little announcement about "<a href="http://www.sparklingfootsteps.com/2012/12/operation-friendship-for-newtown.html" target="_blank">Operation: Friendship for Newtown</a>." Like the group on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OperationFriendshipForNewtown" target="_blank">Facebook</a> if you want the most current info or want to follow along.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyarUT90EaZCd6fiBfJZ6X-QrNekWTIupWGBhVT0tvWNRvqi9xlw_ouO7T00Ppya8FmvSyY-IiitwTk2OarIPYyI53H4jjgxMwxkKjOrzZNzIohl936xFECu9Rxl70KhtS81_96GKXPfuh/s1600/380727_314971788617207_348001717_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyarUT90EaZCd6fiBfJZ6X-QrNekWTIupWGBhVT0tvWNRvqi9xlw_ouO7T00Ppya8FmvSyY-IiitwTk2OarIPYyI53H4jjgxMwxkKjOrzZNzIohl936xFECu9Rxl70KhtS81_96GKXPfuh/s1600/380727_314971788617207_348001717_n.jpg" /></a></div>
The gist of it is that this wonderful woman is collecting green and white friendship bracelets for the kids at Sandy Hook. Remember back when those little friendship bracelets meant the world to you? Yep, we're giving that little bit of love and hope back to these kids. I went out and bought embroidery floss tonight (10 skeins of each color for a grand total of $7.00....... I mean come on. It's the least we can do) and plan to spend my free time in the car this weekend making as many of these as my little fingers can handle.<br />
<br />
Even though it's a minor thing for me to be sharing this with my limited audience, I wanted to anyway. If you have any free time in the next week or so, please consider doing a little something for the students whose lives have literally been shattered. It's not much but it's something we all can do so they know they haven't been forgotten.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-72295506849575903282012-12-19T08:00:00.000-05:002012-12-19T08:00:09.329-05:00The Procedure: Margaret BelleI've shared before that I tend to download a lot of free Kindle books and that a lot of them are pretty terrible or trashy. Recently, however, I discovered an awesome website called <a href="http://www.bookbub.com/home/">Book Bub</a> which sends a daily email - customized based on your stated interests - sharing a few free or "on sale" e-book recommendations. I get 4-5 books every day that I might like to download to my Kindle. Let's just say I've been adding a lot of books to the queue that I haven't had time to read yet! Best part? I'm not spending a dime to do so. I highly recommend you check it out.<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><i>No disclaimer needed - Book Bub has no flipping idea who I am so I can guarantee I won't get any special perks by recommending them.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><i><br /></i></span>
One of the first books I downloaded based on a Book Bub recommendation was <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Procedure-ebook/dp/B008QGJ1K0">The Procedure</a> by Margaret Belle. The story focuses on a woman named Melanie who is volunteering some time working at a fertility clinic. She has a long-standing relationship with the clinic - she and her sister were "products" of the doctor's fertility treatments and she is a single mom raising a son who was also born due to the work of the clinic.<br />
<br />
The story quickly takes a weird turn. In some ways, I believed it was a little too quick - there are definitely parts of this book that need to be better developed and plot lines that need more explanation. That being said, it is rare that I read a medical suspense story that I don't get completely confused by. This was an exception.<br />
<br />
Like many of the other books I've read in recent years, The Procedure made me question the world we live in. Have we taken such a moral downturn that it is just accepted that our bodies do not truly belong to us? Are these medical advances really making the world a better place? Is this a problem with specific individuals or is it more a commentary on our society as a whole?<br />
<br />
If you're at all into medical mysteries, I suggest you check this one out. <br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-83876755125030201592012-12-17T20:00:00.000-05:002012-12-17T20:26:48.223-05:00Thoughts From Monday<br />
As I write this, it is Monday night. It was a great day at work but I'm tired after not sleeping well Sunday. I came home after work, warmed up some leftovers for dinner, poured a glass of wine, and am curled up on the couch with two little fluff balls. I'm keeping the heat somewhat low in my new place to save on energy costs and it's a perfect excuse for lots of cuddling this winter. You don't see me complaining about it...<br />
<br />
It's officially winter here. I forgot my mittens this morning and by the time I got to work, my hands were severely dry and chapped. No amount of lotion throughout the day would save them. By the time I got home tonight, the cuticle on my right hand was so dry and chapped that it was bleeding. By January, I will be quite a mess.<br />
<br />
While watching today's episode of Jeopardy, something I watch almost every day, I realized why I have never completed the Jeopardy test myself. One woman competing this evening was virtually useless during the first round... on every question except those relating to booze. She rocked the "Christmas Spirits" category, knowing answers such as peppermint schnapps and bourbon. I know that would end up being me.<br />
<br />
I'm getting a new mattress for Christmas (thanks Mom & Dad!) and need to pick out some new bedding. I'm at a total loss for what I want to buy. Apparently "something neutral that matches the carpeting" is trickier to find than I might have expected.<br />
<br />
I have barely started my Christmas shopping. I order the bf's present last night - thankfully I found a great price on the perfect present but that means I need to pick up something else that is small which might be very tricky as he's impossible to shop for. I haven't done anything for anyone else though. Something about this year doesn't feel like Christmas. I think it's all the moving and changes. my mind just isn't there yet. Hopefully I get into the Christmas spirit in the next week. Apparently the three Christmas trees in my house mean nothing.<br />
<br />
I don't even know what to say about the tragedy that happened last week. As I was writing this post, I watched the tribute on The Voice and sobbed like a baby. What else is there to do?<br />
<br />
(And that my friends is a very random post. Just sharing my thoughts - both happy and sad - for the night.)<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-68237119005093989302012-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-17T06:00:16.987-05:00Monday Reminder: Dreams Can Come True<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GvatsCODqZvcCruHEE-ZwdQI9ze0wX50YhurVd3E4sjU8xELcyOKbsRixsaxH6ZRAOy_1qetg0OrKANWARgc0Vy_DZE0mfKctCtiHH2tXNrf3nPVVbIrRNpzLfs18QNsUQCvh_WwSD2B/s1600/Dreams+come+true+-+Walt+Disney.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GvatsCODqZvcCruHEE-ZwdQI9ze0wX50YhurVd3E4sjU8xELcyOKbsRixsaxH6ZRAOy_1qetg0OrKANWARgc0Vy_DZE0mfKctCtiHH2tXNrf3nPVVbIrRNpzLfs18QNsUQCvh_WwSD2B/s1600/Dreams+come+true+-+Walt+Disney.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them. - Walt Disney</span></div>
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-55090995530210340322012-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-14T06:00:14.723-05:00It's Friday (Friday)Am I the only one who sings <a href="http://youtu.be/kfVsfOSbJY0">this ridiculously annoying song</a> in her head every single time she thinks about writing a Favorite Things Friday / High Five for Friday post? Yes? Moving on then....<br />
<br />
<br />
As always (or when I have time to write these Friday posts) I'm linking up with <a href="http://www.frommygreydeskblog.com/">Lauren</a>!<br />
<br />
1. Did you see the <a href="http://awomanhercatsandsomebooks.blogspot.com/2012/12/introducing-brand-new-facebook-page.html">announcement yesterday</a> about the new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/awomanhercatsandsomebooks">Facebook page</a>? Still getting it 100% up and running but give it a look and like it if you feel so inclined!<br />
<br />
2. I'm finishing my second week at the new job and I confirm every single day that it was the right move for me to make. Of course I miss my friends and coworkers from Kentucky and loved the work I was doing there. But I am constantly amazed by the good work being done by my new employer and know that I will be able to make a huge difference by utilizing my talent here.<br />
<br />
3. Likewise, I've been living in my new apartment for just over two weeks and I still love it here too! It's finally starting to look like a real home - as long as you don't look in the disorganized closets or ignore the stack of packing supplies about a mile high in the garage. Plus I'm still missing a dining room table. Anyone feeling generous and want to contribute to the "I really like a table that's a little out of my price range right now" fund?<br />
<br />
4. More than me liking the new place, my cats freaking love it. They spend hours every night running up and down the stairs, chasing each other from room to room, and exploring closets. Seeing them settle in makes a huge difference for me.<br />
<br />
5. The best thing about the last two weeks? Getting to see my friends and family on a regular basis. Unfortunately, I'm not making the trek to Minneapolis to celebrate my best friend's birthday this weekend like originally planned but just knowing that all of my favorite people (minus my little sister) are just a short drive away is a huge relief. Already feels like home.<br />
<br />
Happy weekend everyone!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.frommygreydeskblog.com/2012/01/high-five-for-friday-button.html"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd361/lauren_FMGD/H54Fbutton.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-87402582682907705132012-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-13T06:00:10.991-05:00Introducing: The Brand New Facebook PageLet's all take a moment to think back a few years. Let's choose... May 9, 2005... shall we?<br />
<br />
Thinking back to that date for me and my friends, the topic of conversation was all about Facebook. <br />
"When will we get it?" (Remember, this is back when you had to have a university email address to join)<br />
"Will you join if we do get it?" (Not everyone did)<br />
"Do your friends have it?" (Afterall, I went to a relatively small, somewhat obscure college so we certainly weren't on the short list of schools that were early adopters)<br />
"What the heck is Facebook anyway?" (I think the website was actually still thefacebook.com back then)<br />
<br />
May 11, 2005 - at least according to my timeline - I joined Facebook. Since then, I think it's safe to say that the future of communication and relationships in general has been changed forever. Not that I'm complaining. I love that I can keep in touch with 1,000 "friends" - many who I haven't seen in years and some who I have technically never met. There's an element of creep-itude about the whole Facebook thing as well but that's for another post.<br />
<br />
All of this is to say that I finally bit the bullet. Want to follow along with the blog even when I'm a little too busy to type out an entire post? Click that little icon up in the top right corner - the one with the little F - and like me. Please... I'll beg you. I've been waffling on the whole "creating a Facebok page" debate for a while but I finally gave in and would love some validation that it was the right decision!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-14463190662782054862012-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-12T06:00:09.039-05:00What I'm Reading Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thewiegands.com/2012/11/coffee-date-with-me.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb380/CaseyWiegand/nov2012/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I genuinely love Casey Leigh's gift of storytelling. I read <a href="http://www.thewiegands.com/2012/11/coffee-date-with-me.html" target="_blank">this post</a> for the first time a few weeks ago. I was trying to wake up for the day, coffee mug gripped in my hands. It was my last day of work at the old job and I was needing a moment of calm before I embarked on my day. As always, she delivered. I ached to be able to write like this - weave a spell, set a scene, tell a story.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/2012/12/what-i-thought-about-exercising-today.html" target="Nienie Dialogues"><img border="0" src="http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/ac123/beautifymyblog/Buttons/87a4974f.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I stumbled upon a blog a while back that a remarkable woman writes. Stephanie and her husband were in a terrible accident a few years back and yet her blog is full of hope, of peace, and of love. It's an incredible reminder to be thankful for what you've been given and for persevering no matter what. I read <a href="http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/2012/12/what-i-thought-about-exercising-today.html">this post</a> after a bit of a bad day when I was feeling sorry for myself. So inspirational.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/2012/12/wise-words-at-the-dinner-table.html" target="Oh Joy"><img border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/Untitled.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/2012/12/wise-words-at-the-dinner-table.html">This post</a> was the first I read on Oh Joy! but I knew I was hooked. If you come to a dinner party at my house anytime soon (tough since I don't have a dining room table, but whatever), expect something similar. So cute! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Stop over and show these bloggers some love!</div>
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-44867790092683611182012-12-10T06:00:00.000-05:002012-12-10T06:00:02.678-05:00Good, Bad, and UglySince I never have time to think of my Friday things anymore, I figured I'd do the Good, Bad and Ugly linkup to fill you all in on what I've been doing.<br />
<br />
First, <b>the Good.</b><br />
So many good things. I've got one week of the new job under my belt and so far, I'm loving it. My new co-workers seem great, the job is going to be amazing (once I actually start working), and the company is one I can be proud of. I'm also loving being back home in general - being able to see my family (and yes, of course, my boyfriend) on a regular basis is something that can't be measured. It's amazing.<br />
<br />
Next, <b>the Bad.</b><br />
I haven't even started my Christmas shopping. Now that there's actually snow on the ground (add the whole "having to shovel" thing to the bad list), I feel like it's actually Christmas and I need to hurry up and get organized. Hopefully I'll get some things done next week.<br />
<br />
Last, <b>the Ugly.</b><br />
My townhome is a disaster zone. Every time I take 3 steps forward in terms of unpacking, it gets a little messier with packing paper, flattened boxes, and balls of tape <i>everywhere</i>. Plus, there's a giant red wall in my living room that needs to be painted ASAP. Red walls are definitely not my thing and it makes me all nervous and angry.<br />
<br />
That's it. Nothing too exciting going on around here. Just trying to get settled in and get through the holidays so I can figure out what my routine will be.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.incorporatingcolor.blogspot.com/" title="Incorporating Color"><img alt="Incorporating Color" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwk5W7YT_n01DDBrkz3RW_f0YpiLRhz1giO7RcxR2g0CAsocJdXY9Q5EdGiaVk7G3KE4c0rANOpDyfo1QP9-spTo9iAZN4wUVrga9zyQsoMU4hAZtD_7f2zvZFv2nZS23Alvm72zYhpQcq/s128/GBU2b.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-31204270985937381512012-12-04T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-04T07:00:06.807-05:00Don't Read This if You Love "Baby It's Cold Outside"Remember yesterday when I <a href="http://awomanhercatsandsomebooks.blogspot.com/2012/12/almost-late-to-swap-party.html">posted about the holiday music swap</a>?<br />
<br />
So it's no real secret that I love Christmas music. I love old classics almost as much as I love current pop holiday tunes. That being said, there is one song that it's wildly popular which I absolutely cannot stand.<br />
<br />
"Baby, It's Cold Outside"<br />
<br />
If you don't want it ruined forever, please stop reading. But it more than just bugs me so I think I'm allowed to share why.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Have you ever listened to the words of that song? Really listened to them?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I really can’t stay (Baby, it’s cold outside)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I’ve got to go ‘way (Baby, it’s cold outside)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">The evening has been (I’ve been hopin’ that you’d drop in) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">So very nice (I’ll hold your hand, they’re just like ice) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">My mother will start to worry (Hey beautiful, what’s your hurry)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">And father will be pacing the floor (Listen to that fireplace roar)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">So really, I’d better scurry (Beautiful, please don’t hurry)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Well, maybe just a half a drink more (Put some music on while I pour)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">The neighbors might think (Baby, it’s bad out there)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Say, what’s in this drink (No cabs to be had out there)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I wish I knew how (Your eyes are like starlight now) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">To break this spell (I’ll take your hat, your hair looks swell)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I oughtta say no, no, no sir (You mind if I move in closer)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">At least I’m gonna say that I tried (And what’s the sense in hurting my
pride)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I really can’t stay (Oh baby, don’t hold out)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Oh, but it’s cold outside<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I simply must go (It’s cold outside)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">The answer is no (Baby, it’s cold outside)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">The welcome has been (So lucky that you dropped in)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">So nice and warm (Look out the window at that storm)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">My sister will be suspicious (Your lips look delicious)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">My brother will be there at the door (I ain’t worried about you
brother)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">My maiden aunt’s mind is vicious (That ol’ biddy, she ain’t gonna bother
me)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Well maybe just a cigarette more (You don’t need no cigarette, it’s
smokin’ plenty up in here)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I’ve got to get home (Baby, you’ll freeze out there)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Say, lend me a comb (It’s up to your knees out there)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">You’ve really been grand (I thrill when you touch my hand)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Oh, but don’t you see (How can you do this thing to me)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">There’s bound to be talk tomorrow (Well, think of my lifelong sorrow)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">At least there will be plenty implied (If you caught pneumonia and died)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">I really can’t stay (Get over that hold out)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;">Oh, but baby it’s cold outside</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Ok, so I am well aware that this song was written in the 1940's, during a time when spending the night alone with a man could ruin you. So the song was probably written to be much more innocent than how I am going to interpret it. But having worked with college students, specifically in Res Life, for a number of years I can't help but be creeped out by this song.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lyrics like</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Say, what's in this drink"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I ought to say no, no, no; At least I'm gonna say that I tried"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"The answer is no"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
raise serious red flags for me. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Am I reading into it? Probably. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Am I the only one? Not according to the song's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baby,_It's_Cold_Outside">Wikipedia page</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you know me well you know I refer to this song as the "date rape song" on a fairly regular basis. I'm not trying to poke fun at it. I just have a major issue with the fact that she's trying to leave and he doesn't let her and we're all supposed to be ok with that. Call me a freak - I don't care. I have had far too many conversations describing similar situations to this one that weren't nearly so innocent.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
All of that being said, one of the songs included on my <a href="http://awomanhercatsandsomebooks.blogspot.com/2012/12/almost-late-to-swap-party.html">swap CD</a> is an excellent update to this song that I have completely fallen in love with. In fact, it's going to become a new favorite of mine. If you haven't heard <a href="http://vimeo.com/21741184">Christmas Tonight by Dave Barnes</a>, check it out. Now that's a mutual "let's stay home and snuggle instead of going out in this bad weather" song. <i>That is something I can get behind.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-62287942890158052082012-12-03T20:03:00.002-05:002012-12-03T20:08:22.283-05:00(Almost) Late to the (Swap) PartyAh, Monday. I am beyond exhausted. Almost forgot to post in order to link up for the great swap I just did.<br />
<br />
First, let me preface with the "yeah, yeah, I know I haven't been writing lately" apology. For me, the holidays always mean a lot of time in the car listening to Christmas music while driving, traveling with the cats, and visiting with family. This year the holidays also mean a major cross-country move (2 weeks ago), my first holiday with my boyfriend's family (Thanksgiving), a new apartment (just moved in last Thursday), and a brand new job (first day was today).<br />
<br />
I always start listening to Christmas music right after Thanksgiving and this year had the pleasure of adding a ton of new songs to my iPod thanks to a "Jingle Bell Rock" holiday mix "tape" swap I decided to participate in. I kind of wasn't planning on moving right at this time as well so I had to cram in the creation of a playlist over my last weekend in Lexington... but imagine my surprise when <a href="http://youandmearewe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my partner</a> turned out to be a fellow Wisconsin-ite! It was just another sign that it was the perfect time for me to be moving back!<br />
<br />
The mix <a href="http://youandmearewe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sara</a> sent me is amazing - a fabulous mixture of new and old favorites.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglebwlXr6pUcFyGD2bmijT8KWy-M56kygc6bZ-VCOU1iA8T8h6Ac7sDBUpGOQ9U8NEy-a5ZO-ndE3HzD9Vxc53TFHCLXS3FgkTXmAz6J3YhYkmAAa95zfGiF-TaH45u2gxzaBorUsaqSQ/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglebwlXr6pUcFyGD2bmijT8KWy-M56kygc6bZ-VCOU1iA8T8h6Ac7sDBUpGOQ9U8NEy-a5ZO-ndE3HzD9Vxc53TFHCLXS3FgkTXmAz6J3YhYkmAAa95zfGiF-TaH45u2gxzaBorUsaqSQ/s1600/Untitled.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Excellent job, Sara! How have I missed the amazing-ness that is Straight No Chaser?!<br />
<br />
What a fun swap! I can't wait until I get settled in a little more and Sara and I have a chance to meet up in person. Make sure to check out her blog over at <a href="http://youandmearewe.blogspot.com/">You.And.Me.Are.We</a> and show her some love.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6vPjSzaftdmCKWFRDMdQ1j67eFRemV30lfI1VfzMjh-Q050BhQ9ItPpIPsftwUMYa75-vcDelznjT5xr4DSp0Ootyn3GZ-x4wlkCE4mjL5hRzRucKBocyMVLUPIEIaeq5PQgi05VuasP/s1600/Jingle+Bell+Rock+Button+Final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6vPjSzaftdmCKWFRDMdQ1j67eFRemV30lfI1VfzMjh-Q050BhQ9ItPpIPsftwUMYa75-vcDelznjT5xr4DSp0Ootyn3GZ-x4wlkCE4mjL5hRzRucKBocyMVLUPIEIaeq5PQgi05VuasP/s1600/Jingle+Bell+Rock+Button+Final.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
P.S. Check back tomorrow for when I explain how much I hate "Baby, It's Cold Outside" and why, as well as why one of these never-before-heard songs made me happy because it was soooo much better!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3974519596774257290.post-57553705329609806362012-11-26T07:00:00.000-05:002012-12-12T20:16:29.543-05:00Monday Reminder: A Brand-New Path<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqiuPbTy26_RG6tQoUcPTauoXn5NMGw_JF80WCsFseActaLWNoZBTD5xX7Bl-I19D95GUkXpFiLHHeeoipi8iLhwsa1l0zNblbpCtrzkbLIhuR524BXeV77IHMLPEFAaucMtIShIDeMgy/s1600/11.26.12+Maya+Angelou.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqiuPbTy26_RG6tQoUcPTauoXn5NMGw_JF80WCsFseActaLWNoZBTD5xX7Bl-I19D95GUkXpFiLHHeeoipi8iLhwsa1l0zNblbpCtrzkbLIhuR524BXeV77IHMLPEFAaucMtIShIDeMgy/s1600/11.26.12+Maya+Angelou.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">"Stepping
onto a brand-new path is difficult, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">but not more
difficult than remaining in a situation, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">which is not
nurturing to the whole woman." </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">- Maya Angelou</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Rikki" border="0" src="http://i1260.photobucket.com/albums/ii562/rstarich/RikkiPostSignature.png" />Rikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09305247759458407815noreply@blogger.com0