Thursday Thirteen: My Dad

I suppose Father's Day means something different to me than it does to others. My parents divorced when I was little - which isn't unusual. What is unusual is the fact that it wasn't my mother who raised me; it was my father. He enlisted the help of some absolutely fabulous women - but at the end of the day, it was all my dad.

It's a running joke (in which I participate) that I am a spoiled-rotten daddy's girl. I am - and I'm not gonna lie, I like it that way. But it's not lost on me just how lucky I am to have the dad I do - and I don't ever take that for granted. My dad is my hero - literally. He stepped up to raise a little girl all by himself, even though I'm sure that was never in his plans.

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He had to show up - for dance recitals, plays, concerts, parent-teacher conferences, birthday parties, doctor appointments, etc., etc. And show up he did - I don't think he ever missed a one.

He always had to look out for me. He couldn't live the life of a single guy in his 30's because he had me. But I never, ever felt like he resented that.

My dad and one of his grand-cats.

When I wanted to find a home for a cat, my dad took him in. And now they're the best of friends.

He can fix my computer. He can help me pay people to do other things that neither of us know how to do. This means that, really - dad is the only guy I need.

He paid for my wedding....

....but never once made me feel like a failure after my marriage fell apart.

He saved, and saved, and saved....and I've never paid a dime on a student loan.

He spoiled me rotten growing up. I never wanted for anything, and got everything I ever wanted for Christmas and birthdays....

....Until I turned 16, and told my dad I "needed" a car. He said, "No, what you 'need' is a job."

He never let me win at board games when I was little, and he never let me play games that were beneath my age or intelligence.

He read to me every night, until I was old enough to read to him. Then he listened.

He respected my privacy, and never once went into my bedroom or read my diary.

He gave me freedom and latitude to make responsible, adult choices and to form my own opinions. He respected me when I did so, even if he didn't agree.

Happy Father's Day, Dad!!

I wouldn't be the person I am today without you.

Thursday Thirteen - Reasons why men are happier

I got this email the other day, and though I've seen it before, I thought some of these were just so funny that I wanted to share. The actual email is much longer - I'm only sharing the best. Because you're worth it. You're welcome.

Men are such happy people. What do you expect?

• Your last name stays put
• Chocolate is just another snack
• The world is your urinal
• Wrinkles add character
• Three pairs of shoes is more than enough
• You almost never have strap problems in public
• Your underwear is $8.95 for a three pack
• You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look
• You only have to shave your face and neck
• You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes
• One mood all the time
• A five day vacation requires one suitcase
• You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness

Thursday Thirteen - Universal truths

Time for me to share some more chain-email wisdom.

There's no worse feeling than that millisecond you're sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.


I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.


The only time I look forward to a red light is when I'm trying to finish a text.


I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.


I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.


You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.


Was learning cursive really necessary?


There is great need for a sarcasm font.


I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.


Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.


I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.


Bad decisions make good stories.


"Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this - ever.

Thursday Thirteen - Favorite baseball games

I seem to be having a baseball-themed week, so I figured I'd stick with that for the Thursday thirteen. I asked my twitter and facebook friends to name their favorite baseball games - ever. In no particular order:

May 17, 1998 - Minnesota Twins at New York Yankees - David Wells pitched a perfect game that day.

July 18, 1999 - Montreal Expos at New York Yankees - David Cone pitched a perfect game this time.

No beautiful faces were harmed
in the making of this play.

July 1, 2004 - Boston Red Sox at New York Yankees - Derek Jeter makes his famous leap into the stands.

October 17, 1999 - Atlanta Braves at New York Mets - Game 5 of the National League Championship Series (Mets won).

June 30, 2000 - Atlanta Braves at New York Mets - Mets won.

June 16, 1997 - New York Mets at New York Yankees - Mets won.

October 6, 2010 - Cincinnati Reds at Philadelphia Phillies - Game 1 of the National League Divisional Series, Roy Halladay pitches a no-hitter!

July 13, 1993 - All-Star Game, John Kruk vs. Randy Johnson - I had to google this - hysterical. You can see it here.

May 17, 2000 - Los Angeles Dodgers at Chicago Cubs - Fan stole a player's cap, and a brawl ensued.

September 16, 1978 - New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox - One-game playoff, necessary when the teams finished the regular season tied for first. It's the famous Bucky Dent game.

October 1, 2007 - San Diego Padres at Colorado Rockies - One-game playoff to determine first place on the season.

October 6, 2009 - Detroit Tigers at Minnesota Twins - One-game playoff to determine first place on the season.

September 21, 2001 - Atlanta Braves at New York Mets - This was the first game played after the September 11, 2001 attacks. It was played in New York, and the Mets won, thanks to a two-run home run by Mike Piazza (SN: my favorite Met ever). Baseball helped bring a city, and a nation, back to life. 

Everyone had a different reason for remembering the game they mentioned. Some appreciate the intensity and finality of a one-game playoff, others recalled a fond memory, some simply loved the game because they saw it live. Others remember their team winning - whether it was a trophy, or just bragging rights. Some because it was funny, or silly, or just plain stupid.

We may be fans for different reasons, but baseball fans know what true love and memories are.

Special thanks to Angelos, Sassy, Meagan, Lee, Kelly and Patrick for helping me out.

Thursday Thirteen - Letters

Another Thursday - another email. This one was a collection of short, funny letters that could should have been written at some point. I picked my favorites.

Dear Noah,

We could have sworn you said the ark wasn't leaving till 5.
Sincerely,
Unicorns

Dear Icebergs,
Sorry to hear about the global warming. Karma's a bitch.
Sincerely,
The Titanic

Dear America,
You produced Miley Cyrus. Bieber is your punishment.
Sincerely,
Canada

Dear Batman,

What was your power again?
Sincerely, Superman

Dear Global Warming,
You're the best imaginary friend ever!
Sincerely, Al Gore

Dear Mr. Gump
WTF are you talking about? There's a little diagram on the lid that tells you EXACTLY what you're gonna get....
Sincerely, Jenny

Dear Martin Luther King Jr.
I have a dream within a dream within a dream within another dream.... What now?
Sincerely,
Leonardo Di Caprio

Dear World,
Please stop freaking out about 2012. Our calendar ends there because some Spanish d-bags invaded our country and we got a little busy ok?
Sincerely,
The Mayans

Dear White People,
Don't you just hate immigrants?
Sincerely,
Native Americans

Dear iPhone,
Please stop spellchecking all of my rude words into nice words. You piece of shut.
Sincerely,
Every iPhone User

Dear Giant Spider on the Wall,
Please die. Please die. Please die. Please die. CRAP! Where did you go?
Sincerely,
Terrified

Dear Man,
It's cute, but can you pick up peanuts with it?
Sincerely,
Elephant

Dear Dr. Phil,
Look man, there's only room for one fake doctor in this world and I was here first.
Sincerely,
Dr. Pepper

Thursday Thirteen - My makeup must-haves

"So now I want Sue to do a blog post with product recommendations because I bet she has great lip gloss and other stuff and is holding out on us."

Can I borrow your lip gloss?

That's what my friend tweeted over the weekend. If you want to see the whole string, you should really follow her on twitter. She's hilarious and smart and beautiful and has wonderful style. At Mel's request, I am happy to share what I've found.

First, let me warn you - I don't always buy cheap makeup. Why? Because I don't believe in throwing good money after bad. If I "save" by purchasing an inferior product - I've wasted money. I'd rather spend more and be happy with my results.

That doesn't mean I always buy the most expensive version, either. After 20+ years of wearing makeup, I've learned where (I think) you should splurge - and where it's okay to save. Here are thirteen of my favorite products and tips.

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Primer:
Tip - I know what you're thinking - what am I doing, painting a room? Building a foundation? Yes, that's exactly what you're doing. Once I started using this stuff, I realized it was an essential part of my makeup routine.

Product - You can spend upwards of $30 on a primer - or you can use a much less expensive version (like this one by Revlon) that will do the same thing. I've used both, and in this case, cheaper works just fine. So for about $11 at Target, you can save yourself time and money from reapplying other makeup 2-3 times a day.

Foundation:
Tip - It's the most misunderstood item in your makeup bag. It's not meant to conceal, so don't use anything darker than your skin. You want the same shade as your skin, or lighter - but no more than a shade.

Product - I like "self-adjusting" (one that blends with the actual color of your skin). It's very similar to tinted moisturizer - much lighter texture. The self-adjusting lotion I use is by Revlon, as well. Almay also makes a similar product.

Mascara:

Tip - It's all in the applicator. I've tried expensive (to the tune of $50 for a tube) and got the same results as if I spent $8.

Product - A few months back I found this little gem from L'oreal - a layer of shimmer to apply after your actual mascara. Love it - it's fun, without being too flashy.

Nails: 
Tip - Always give yourself a pedicure if you're wearing open-toed shoes or sandals. Period.

Product - For those times when your pedicure is last-minute, and there's no time to dry your polish, this stuff is awesome.

Hair:
Tip - Don't skimp. There is a difference between discount and salon brands, no matter what the commercials with the French guy tell you.

Product(s) - I like this one to control frizz. It's expensive, but well worth it, and you don't need to use a whole lot, so it will last you a long time. I have a bottle right now that's over a year old.  For texturizing/styling, I like this stuff and this stuff - they give body and style without a "crunchy" hold.

And as requested....

Lips - It's funny that in the dream, I handed Mel lip gloss - because I'm basically addicted to the stuff. I probably have about five lip gloss options on me at any one time. I have a whole drawer full of them in my bathroom, too. I have tubes that cost $25 - and I have those that cost $10.

If I were jumping out of a plane with a friend tomorrow, and she wanted to borrow my lip gloss - I'd be handing her this one from Neutrogena. It applies well, and has some good staying power for a gloss. It's also a natural color, so it doesn't give me that "made up" look.

Thursday Thirteen: Yogi-isms

Isn't he cute?

I love baseball; I love the Yankees; and I love good quotes. So, Yogi Berra is like the best of all worlds for me. If you're not familiar with Yogi-isms - you really should be. They're silly, of course, but if you stop and think about them - there's also a little bit of truth.

Here are just a few of my favorites - click here to read more. (And thanks to Cute~Ella for tweeting this list!)

- It's like deja vu all over again.

- You can observe a lot just by watching.

- If the world was perfect, it wouldn't be.

- The future ain't what it used to be.

- When you come to a fork in the road, take it.

- Never answer anonymous letters.

- Always go to other people's funerals, otherwise they won't come to yours.

- Half the lies they tell about me aren't true.

- It gets late early out there.

- (On baseball) 90% of the game is half mental.

- It ain't over til it's over.

- If you don't know where you're going, you might end up someplace else.

- I really didn't say everything I said.

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PS:

Happy Birthday to my Dad and my Cousin!!

Thursday Thirteen - Kids and proverbs

Another email....another thirteen worth noting. Some are really funny - especially since they (supposedly) came from first graders. Please note number thirteen. Happy Thursday!!

1 - It's always darkest before....daylight savings time.

2 - No news is....impossible.

c - A bird in the hand....is going to poop on you.

d - Children should be seen and not....spanked or grounded.

5 - Love all, trust....me.

6 - Two's company, three's...,the Musketeers.

g - If you lie down with dogs, you'll....stink in the morning.

h - A penny saved is....not much.

i - Don't bite the hand that....looks dirty.

10 - An idle mind is....the best way to relax.

k - Where there's smoke, there's....pollution.

l - When the blind lead the blind....get out of the way.

...and last but not least -

13 -Better late than....pregnant!

Thursday Thirteen - Words to live by

I got one of those silly email forwards last week - this one was called "Words for women to live by...." Thought I'd share a few that really made me smile.

1 - Go on the 30 day diet. I'm on it and so far I've lost 15 days.

2 - Lead me not into temptation - I can find it myself.

C - I'm in my own little world - but it's OK. They know me here.

d - When life gets you down - put on your big girl panties and deal with it.

5 - Let your greatest fear be that there is no PMS and this is just your personality.

f - Don't get your knickers in a knot; it solves nothing and makes you walk funny.

7 - Remember - wherever there is a good looking, sweet, single or married man - there is some woman tired of his bullshit!

H - Keep your chin up - only the first 40 years of parenthood are the hardest.

9 - By the time a woman realizes her mother was right, she has a daughter who thinks she is wrong.

J - In need of a support group? Shopping and cocktails with the ladies!

k - If it has tires or testicles - it's gonna give you trouble.

L - Aspire to be Barbie - that bitch has everything.

...and my personal motto -

13 - If the shoe fits - buy them in every color!

Happy Thursday!

Thursday Thirteen - NY Women's Expo

This weekend, I went to the NY Women's Expo, which was held at Siena College. The weekend-long event was a collection of vendors and seminars, geared towards women. Shopping ranged from jewelry to onsite spa treatments - to windows and patio furniture.

I did not buy any windows.

My favorite purchase.

I did buy some fun jewelry and accessories, because that's what I do. I attended seminars on haircare myths and realities, and how to transition your makeup from day to night. I paid $8 to hear the tips and tricks; you're getting a few of them for free. You're welcome.

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• When going from day makeup to night, you need to use a nude, or neutral blush. The point of the blush is really just to give your face some contour; for nighttime makeup, the emphasis should be on your eyes...
• ...and lips. In the words of the consultant from Jean Paul Spa - you can't have too much gloss at night.
• I've always been told that your hair grows faster in the summer; rinsing under cold water helps reduce frizz; and that hair can become "immune" to shampoo benefits over time. The truth is....
• ...there's no "immunity" - but there is a potential for build-up that prevents the shampoo from being as effective. You don't need to change shampoos often, just use a clarifying shampoo now and then.
• ...hair does tend to grow faster in the summer - only because we are more active in the summer, and therefore our metabolism speeds up.
• ...It's true that scalding hot water will frizz your hair - it dries your hair the same way it dries your skin. Stick to warm water and you'll be fine. You don't need to freeze.
• If you're looking for spa treatments, but can't break the bank, check out Mirror Images Clinic. The spa & salon is staffed with ready-to-graduate students from Austin School of Spa Technology. They need clients; you need services. It's a win-win.
• Placing a light colored shadow just below your brow-line will lighten and emphasize your eyes. 
• Women like pink tools.

Visit Tomboy Tools for info.

• Makeup should move from matte colors in the day to shimmer for a night out. Jean Paul Spa sells a finishing powder that includes a light, silvery shimmer. I will tell you - it was fabulous.
• Remember this post, where we talked about why you don't need a man. Pure Romance is a company that can help you there. Check them out. They didn't offer me any deals (or tips, thankyouverymuch). They're getting a mention here only because I loved how their booth was set up so tastefully that moms didn't mind stopping, even with their daughters.
• Dandruff is a medical condition; dry scalp is different. Often people use dandruff shampoo, which is medicated, when all they really need is a good moisturizing shampoo.
• Shaving does not actually make hair grow back thicker and darker. As hair grows back, the root, which is always thicker, is more visible; giving the appearance of darker, thicker hair. If it were to grow all the way back, it would have the same texture as always.

(In the interest of full disclosure, I paid the $10 admission minus a $2 coupon I downloaded from their website. I wasn't given anything for free other than the same samples handed out to everyone. The tips I'm sharing were a part of the seminars included with my admission. Products/services I paid for myself.)

Thursday thirteen: Question and Answer

Cute~Ella thought it would be fun to send me these questions...there are thirteen, so I figured I'd answer them as a Thursday Thirteen post. Bonus: I may use one or more tonight.

a,) When you were 5 what did you want to be when you grew up? At exactly age 5 I wanted to be Wonder Woman.

b.) What was the coolest gift you've ever received? Honestly - my Derek Jeter jersey.

3.) Where is the coolest place you've had sex?  Most risky? - Work (on my lunch)

d.) If money was no object, what would the one place you'd like to see the most? Who would you take with you? A tour of all Major League baseball stadiums. I have no idea who I'd take - maybe my dad?

5.) Can you pat your head and rub your tummy at the same time? Roll your tongue? No, I can't; yes, I can.

6.) Do you believe that global warming is real? Is it caused by lack of Pirates? I do believe in global warming, but to blame it on pirates is silly. Everyone knows it's the aliens' fault.

7.) Do you like kids? Want them some day? Yes; undecided (I'm sort of running the clock down on this, so I think fate will decide for me).

8.) If you could have any super power, what would you want to have? I'd want to be able to read people's minds and see the future. What would your superhero costume look like? Black pants with really cute boots (which can have a heel since my power is cerebral and won't require much running around). Some sort of killer top (in red or purple) to show off my fabulous abs and cleavage (listen - if I can have a superpower, I can have that, too!). My power would be in my accessories (natch).

9.) Blue pens? Black Pens? or Pencils? Black pens


10.) If your SO told you he/she wanted to make out with someone of the same sex, would you be ok with it? Or would you consider it cheating on you? Making out is cheating, regardless of the motives (I think).

k.) What's your favorite icecream flavor? Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie

l.) Do you steal the covers? Nope

13.) Would you get offended if one of your SO's friends was in crisis and he/she had to change plans with you to help? No

Thursday thirteen: Chick flicks

I'm stealing borrowing this feature again. I'm a movie fan buff geek. Though I prefer science fiction, fantasy and comic book movies - I also appreciate a good romantic comedy. Here are my top choices for flicks every chick should see - and why.

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The Wizard of Oz - It's important to believe in your dreams. Plus, it's the ultimate chick flick - two women fighting to the death over a pair of shoes.

The Princess Bride - One of the most quotable movies ever. It's also a fabulous fairy-tale love story, and Cary Elwes is adorable in tights. Plus, Billy Crystal.

When Harry Met Sally - One of the most romantic movies ever made. It's proof that friendship, and love, really do conquer all, and it teaches us that everything really does happen for a reason. Plus, Billy Crystal.

How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days - I was a much bigger Kate Hudson fan before she dated him. Still - she had the sense to let him loose, so I guess that's something. This is just a fun, light-hearted movie that shows all ladies how silly we look when we do those things we do. Plus, shirtless Matthew McConaughey.

Fever Pitch - Baseball = Love - 'nuff said. It's also a powerful lesson that not everything is perfect - 'cause, you know, that other team wins the World Series at the end of the movie.

A League of Their Own - Girl-power and baseball. What more do you need?

Sex and the City - The Movie - I was not a fan of the sequel, but the first movie made me fall in love with the franchise. It's all about strong women, love in every form, and how no matter where you go, it's your friends that make your world.

The Women - Think SATC, but more mature, less sex. Same message.

Steel Magnolias - Same as The Women. That funeral scene always makes me cry. Plus, Julia Roberts - and Dolly Parton.

Pretty Woman - The classic story of Cinderella, told with a modern twist. She's not an object; she's a beautiful, strong, smart, funny woman who deserves love and respect. Plus, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.

He's Just not that Into You - He might not be; and your friends might not be telling you. This movie will show you how and why, and make you laugh while doing so. Plus, Jennifer Aniston and Ben Affleck.

Say Anything - My gosh, love should be like that. Plus, John Cusack.

Jersey Girl - It's an adorable story about how important a dad really is to a little girl. Plus, it's the only Kevin Smith movie that I can reasonably fit on this list.


What are yours? 

Thursday thirteen: Things you might not know about me

I'm stealing. Okay, borrowing. But I'll totally give credit. I liked this post by Cute~Ella so much - I'm doing my own here.

1 Nuns hate me.
2 I hate cooked carrots.
c My first pet was a cat named Jennifer.
4 When I was 12-14, every clothing item I owned (except jeans) was pink.
e My favorite group as a little girl was Menudo
6 I'm afraid of the dark
7 My favorite sound is my cats purring

That purse does not go with that outfit.

h I had knee surgery when I was 15, and have no cartilage in my left knee at all.
9 I've never been outside of the US - not even Canada.
j My paternal grandmother was like a mom to me. I felt guilty when she died, and I miss her every day.
k I'm not good at sewing.
12 No one, including my doctor, knows how much I weigh. I aim to keep it that way, too.
m The only episode of Saturday Night Live I've ever seen the whole way through is the one hosted by Derek Jeter

And you?