tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-202470982012-01-22T14:49:44.882-05:00Live-blogging from the shadow of "The Happiest Place on Earth"Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.comBlogger15021100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-43297774501015206252012-01-22T12:28:00.000-05:002012-01-22T12:28:01.996-05:00

 photo credit  "They ask me what I'd like written about me when I'm gone. I hope they write I made Penn State a better place, not just that I was a good football coach." Joe, you made Penn State a better university in so many ways.  Thank you for never forgetting that your players were students first, and athletes second.  And thank you for your personal contributions to the university.

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-2626047448579284432012-01-14T10:24:00.001-05:002012-01-14T10:24:54.580-05:00

Look who got a new scratching post! I thought a nice before & after shot would show just how much (and how hard) the cats love these things.  The new one (#4 since we moved here I believe) was only $8 at Ross.  You never know what sort of awesome crap you'll find on the shelves there! I'll post a picture when it starts looking nasty and tattered like the one in the foreground, so we can see

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-52790088207646399602012-01-11T21:11:00.000-05:002012-01-11T21:11:54.187-05:00

Did you know that student loans are intended to not only cover tuition, but also books, supplies and living expenses?  I realized that this week when I received notification that I'm getting a check in the next few days. My first thought: I'll just send the money back to the lender - that's less to pay later on. My second thought: The interest on my credit card is WAY higher than the interest

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-84773773103999304592012-01-04T19:49:00.000-05:002012-01-04T19:49:29.790-05:00

Last week, I had a bit of a snit with one of the managers I support.  Here's the quick rundown: Him: How are you today? Me: I'd be better if there were more training forms in my mailbox. Him: It's the holidays dear, every day we open on time we're lucky. See, he is part of the department I refer to as my Bad News Bears or my Mighty Ducks, depending on how far behind they are on their training

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-31672003028051212082012-01-01T11:52:00.000-05:002012-01-01T11:52:20.497-05:00

I'm not making resolutions.  They just don't work for me.  But here are some things I expect from myself this year: * Fiscal responsibility! It's hard, but necessary.  I plan to limit spending on my credit card and to use any extra cash I get my hands on to pay down that balance. * Straight A's!  That's my goal and I'm sticking to it.  I'm only taking two classes at a time, and there are no

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-42868907845630020672011-12-31T10:49:00.000-05:002011-12-31T10:49:54.540-05:00

I haven't been really great about blogging this year, so you might not know what a great year it's really been around here. Travels We started the year with a quick weekend trip to Ft. Myers to visit the O'King side of the family, and then did a two-night mini cruise on Disney's newest cruise ship, the Dream.  In September, we took a road trip that included the Georgia Aquarium, the Penn State

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-12972159665954057042011-12-31T08:56:00.000-05:002011-12-31T08:56:20.170-05:00

How did it get to be December 31st already?  Did I miss Thanksgiving and Christmas?  I really let the past few months fly past and barely looked around.  Maybe that's because I've got so much change coming up next year.  School? At my age? Bwahahaha!  Anyway, before I leap into a new year, pardon me while I indulge myself in my annual look back... Take the first sentence of the first post of

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-19429438970585437812011-12-25T11:49:00.000-05:002011-12-25T11:49:06.600-05:00

Here are a few pictures from this very morning.  I was out and about, the cats were home, and Scott was at work.  Very Merry Christmas from all of us to all of you!

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-12609585709667874612011-12-24T17:19:00.000-05:002011-12-24T17:19:40.548-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I now present the final young Jamie and Santa photo.  Here we have my second Christmas, age 19 months. I imagine based on the background that Santa visited his cousin Wilbur at his camper in the Florida Everglades.  Santa, not used to moonshine, passed out just minutes before children arrived for their annual photos.  So Wilbur grabbed Santa's suit, hung a piece of a

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-69034198920572732802011-12-23T16:26:00.000-05:002011-12-23T16:26:55.606-05:00

I'm going to attempt to channel Prince Humperdink for a moment.  There was a great battle here...between a little girl and an old man...she fought to get away, but he held her mercilessly. Seriously, look into the eyes.  It's hard to tell which one of us is angrier!  My money is on the old guy, who seems to hate children and desperately needs some spiked eggnog if he's going to make it through

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-18043195854198878532011-12-20T18:36:00.000-05:002011-12-20T18:36:01.354-05:00

This is the face of a kid who doesn't like her situation.  "Sit with this old man with the dead eyes? Umm...why?" Aside from the look of suspicion (I'm sure Scott would be proud), this picture shows a problem with MANY of my childhood photos: overexposure.  As a near-albino living in South Florida where everyone else is tan year-round, most of the time I looked like a marshmallow with eyes (but

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-60276327811678349742011-12-17T11:48:00.000-05:002011-12-17T11:48:29.189-05:00

2008: Kitten Elphie's first exposure to fake evergreen: 2011 (this morning): As I was up on the step ladder putting the angel on top of the tree, Elphie jumped up to help. She stayed there long enough for me to take this picture, and then when I carried the step ladder away from temptation. Some things never change! (Except for her size, because man she is a GIANT!)

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-69183951177371021582011-12-16T17:25:00.000-05:002011-12-16T17:25:47.785-05:00

Of all my Santa pictures, this one is my favorite.  Though I enjoy the happy smile of 1984, I super-puffy-heart loved the dress I wore in the 1983 picture.  I still have this dress in a Space Bag upstairs.  It's got a crinoline...and a bell.  What could be better than that?  Plus, I think that the kid in this picture really looks like me.  (maybe it's the lack of smile?) I do have some current

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-75399762017488073792011-12-15T08:35:00.002-05:002011-12-15T08:35:00.298-05:00

This is my second-favorite Jamie-and-Santa photo.  Look at those chubby knees! The pinafore dress (also, I believe, featured in my school picture from the same year)! The genuinely gleeful expression! '84 was a big year for me.  After all, it was my first year of school (first grade).  Since we were living in Philly at the time, I'm going to assume that's where this photo was taken.  I'm also

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-38271429575339740122011-12-14T20:35:00.000-05:002011-12-14T20:35:20.774-05:00

As I type this, I've got pepperoni-mozzarella bread in the oven.  The house smells delightfully Italian, but not at all Christmas-y.  Back to the task at hand... two things about the photo above: * Burgundy velvet * Ruffled collar Something about this dress makes me think of a 50-year-old secretary in the 60's or 70's. 80's? Maybe from "9 to 5" or something.  Whatever era, it just doesn't seem

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-67087130888705262282011-12-10T19:13:00.000-05:002011-12-10T19:13:36.691-05:00

Dear Santa, I formally request some teeth - I seem to be missing a few.  I am also slightly concerned about the position of your left hand.  Are you about to snap my tiny little neck?  And why aren't you smiling at the camera?  Your eyes seem to say "I hate little girls," but I'm sure that's not your true feeling.  After all, who could possibly hate little girls?  Especially one whose dress

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-87476280003414495692011-12-08T19:43:00.000-05:002011-12-08T19:43:26.402-05:00

Christmas 1987: I was 8 (almost 9).  This is the last of the Santa photos in my baby book.  Perhaps because once your head is higher than Santa's you're officially too big to sit on his lap?  If my math is correct, I was in the 4th grade in this photo.  I have no idea what I got from the Jolly Elf this Christmas, but apparently I was quite excited to see him and ask for something.  Was this the

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-58442296686797763042011-12-05T19:16:00.000-05:002011-12-05T19:16:15.250-05:00

When you attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, you receive a free souvenir photo from the event.  What they don't tell you is that the photographers are drunken monkeys incapable of correctly framing a shot.  Actually, I really like this picture because I remember having a lot of fun that night.  I actually sang in a Candlelight show and then we headed over to MK.  We sat on the curb on

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-15938624036908704732011-12-04T23:49:00.002-05:002011-12-05T18:59:29.932-05:00

Scott and I went on a Disney cruise in December of 2006 to celebrate our anniversary and actually paid money for the photo below!  Oh 2006, why did you make my hair like that?  Actually, this was after I donated Locks of Love, so I forgive myself for the hair.  We won't discuss the arms-white-as-shawl or Scott's nearly-flesh-tone yellow shirt. Anyway, this was another of those pictures we

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-85609337265440575622011-12-02T20:11:00.001-05:002011-12-02T20:11:00.342-05:00

We spent New Years Eve 2007 at the Grand Floridian, having dinner with Rose and Gary, followed by stupid hats and fireworks. (there is a Christmas tree in the background, so this does count as a Christmas picture. Because I said so!)

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-92146555907019818092011-12-01T08:11:00.000-05:002011-12-01T08:11:34.835-05:00

Can you believe Scott had never made gingerbread (or graham cracker) houses before we decorated these beauties in 2008?  We sure had a lot of fun that day, and took many more pictures. Yes, I'm poaching my own blog for posts now.  No, I'm not ashamed!

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-969565434105785002011-11-29T21:32:00.000-05:002011-11-29T21:32:03.501-05:00

I accidentally used a different pie crust recipe for my Thanksgiving apple pie.  "Accidentally," you ask?  Yes.  See, "my" pie crust recipe is from the little spiral-bound booklet that came with my stand mixer.  Who'd have thunk that the recipe in the KitchenAid Best-Loved Recipes cookbook (a.k.a the official stand mixer cookbook) would be completely different? By the time I realized my error, I

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-61987395150216407522011-11-29T18:30:00.000-05:002011-11-29T18:30:33.304-05:00

I love the Osborne Lights, but hate the crowds.  It's telling that this photo was taken on a side street, with Scott leaning on a trash can.  It's the only place we could go without being elbowed by a stranger or run over by a stroller! I'm pretty sure that 2009 was the first time we'd been back to see the lights since 2003.  I'm also pretty sure we'll be skipping it again this year.

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-71339983373267553802011-11-28T18:02:00.000-05:002011-11-28T18:02:57.327-05:00

Remember the Month of Holiday Cat Photos (otherwise known as December 2008)?  I've decided to resurrect that this year, but instead use pictures from my own past Christmases.  They're not going to be chronological, mostly because I have a big hole in my albums in the 90's and 00's, and partly because I'd hate to blow all of the adorable mini-Jamie with Santa pictures in the beginning. I'm also

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-23138083708310660612011-11-26T20:48:00.001-05:002011-11-28T17:34:20.008-05:00

Dear Santa, Hi it's Jamie. You might remember me from this picture *cough cough* years ago.  I was the little girl holding the red toy truck. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know I won't be expecting any gifts this year.  Scott and I have decided to celebrate our anniversary and Christmas "off the grid" with no gifts.  Money is tight, and we have what we need and can wait for anything else we

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-39979771371320088132011-11-25T19:19:00.000-05:002011-11-25T19:19:48.256-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to introduce you to Cassidy.  I met her today and got to hold her so long my shoulder and elbow still hurt.  (I call it "baby arm." It's like tennis elbow, but getting this is so much more fun) Cassidy was born on Wednesday night, and she belongs to Matthew and Kristen. By now though, I think it's safe to say they belong to her.  They let me come and visit today,

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-16465281866557075032011-11-10T23:44:00.000-05:002011-11-10T23:44:25.874-05:00

A few days before my twenty-second birthday, I found myself in a date rape situation.  A bad combination of a recently prescribed antidepressant and a few shots of vodka with a girlfriend and two guys that I trusted resulted in a night that to this very day I can only remember in very short flashes.  I'm not going to share the details of the night, because they're not important anymore.  But I

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-21876015152448150762011-11-09T19:33:00.000-05:002011-11-09T19:33:01.185-05:00

Photo Credit It's been a rough week for the Penn State faithful, myself included.  Rocked by scandal, we're seeing the reputation of our University tarnishing before our eyes.  We're seeing a house-cleaning of the administration that's likely to claim more before it's finished.  And we're seeing an unprecedented amount of hatred aimed at everything our school stands for.  In short, I has a sad.

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-29892828427928347632011-10-25T18:25:00.000-04:002011-10-25T18:25:59.442-04:00

After last summer's near-death experience with a car air-freshener, it should come as no surprise to you that I'm not really fond of scented anything.  Even before that, I've always found most fragrances overwhelming.  Cinnamon brooms at Publix? Sorry Scott, you'll have to do that corner of the store yourself. Powdered carpet cleaner? I'll just avoid that room for a few days. I even remember

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-11810290954876868262011-10-20T18:49:00.000-04:002011-10-20T18:49:22.455-04:00

At last count, I have about a half-dozen friends and acquaintances on Facebook who are pregnant (or the male equivalent). In the past few months I've seen ultrasound pictures and videos, status updates from cribs to cravings, and everything inbetween. And for the most part, I've been uncharacteristically quiet.  These little social media baby booms are always sort of tough on me emotionally. 

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-22467987885785310492011-10-10T17:23:00.000-04:002011-10-10T17:23:29.385-04:00

We're in a bit of a money crunch right now.  Between paying off my college debt (you know, so I can accrue new college debt), my new car, and last month's road trip, our savings are way lower than I'm comfortable with and my credit card debt is way higher.  All in all, not an ideal situation.  So we're eating out a lot less.  And I've gotten really sick of the same chicken breast/pork chop

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-45819759167483209132011-09-04T15:32:00.000-04:002011-09-04T15:32:09.441-04:00

Preface: You may have seen this t-shirt or at least heard the comment before.  It's a concept Scott and I laugh about a lot.  Watch enough food/travel shows, and you're going to see all sorts of animals - from cows to fish - killed and cooked.  Everyone knows that meat used to breathe and think. I, of course, am more of a supermarket murderer.  By the time I get my food, it's long-dead.  I never

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-34181564643566318852011-09-04T14:27:00.000-04:002011-09-04T14:27:32.916-04:00

I spent August 24-27 in a whirlwind of family fun.  Of course, I'm a terrible blogger and didn't bother to record anything of note at the time.  Now on the eve of another "memory maker," I'm going to throw up a random list of things I want to remember about how wonderful it was to be with everyone again. August 24 - evening - dinner at Downtown Disney with Rose, Gary, Mark, Dawn, and Scott.  Good

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-79030336723702517822011-08-23T22:05:00.000-04:002011-08-23T22:05:04.171-04:00

I killed a bird this morning on my way to work.  Scott and I talked about filming a dramatization, but we're probably going to be too busy for the next few days so you'll just have to rely on your imagination. There I am driving down the road when a little bird swoops down from the other side of the road and hits the front of my car with an echoing thud that actually resonated a bit like a gong.

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-29804093290335586362011-08-12T11:24:00.000-04:002011-08-12T11:24:16.956-04:00

I've got what can best be described as a "problem tooth."  The first problem with this tooth was back in January 2007.  That's when my dentist saw a small cavity.  According to this blog post from March of that year, the small cavity wasn't filled in time (through no fault of my own) and needed a root canal, which took 2 appointments to complete and then got infected.  Ironically, at that time I

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-71327171998914552542011-08-01T18:19:00.000-04:002011-08-01T18:19:48.775-04:00

Scott and I have an event to attend in New Jersey this fall.  No matter how we sliced it, plane tickets were going to end up costing us more that I felt we could spend (and that was before I got my transcript out of hock). So we decided to take a little more time off from work and make the drive.  Even if gas was $4/gallon by then, we'd still be spending less than the airfare and rental car would

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-15752149798579803872011-07-27T18:46:00.000-04:002011-07-27T18:46:10.063-04:00

Guess what I got today!  OK, don't really guess.  I got an official copy of my transcript.  The news contained, while not great, was actually better than I'd expected.  My last two semesters didn't count at all (Fall because I got a "trauma drop" of all my classes because of the bus accident...and I think I would've failed them all anyway, and Spring because my Dad never paid the tuition and I

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-26921375485876293872011-07-26T20:46:00.000-04:002011-07-26T20:46:05.049-04:00

So...I spent $2,520 today and am having a bit of buyer's remorse.  Perhaps because I don't have anything to show for it.  Literally nothing, not even a receipt! Actually, more than buyer's remorse, I have a little bit of pride and a lot of cautious optimism.  Pride, because I have officially paid off every last cent of college debt (two years after I found out about the last 252,000 cents I owed

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-84830431020001786862011-07-14T12:23:00.000-04:002011-07-14T12:23:26.849-04:00

The dentist had trouble removing my last wisdom tooth.  The top-left one pretty much popped right out (along with the filling on the tooth in front of it.  see you again Monday morning, Doc!), but the bottom-left one was holding on for dear life.  This was the least "erupted" of all of them, and the one I was dreading the most, so I wasn't entirely surprised.  I was, however, surprised when he

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-16948181081459974982011-07-12T17:55:00.000-04:002011-07-12T17:55:17.815-04:00

The following happened between 7:00 and 8:00 this morning: * I walked out of the house, locking the door behind me, only to discover the my keys (house and car) were still inside.  This, ladies and gentlemen, is why we have a key stashed in the garage. * I narrowly avoided being hit head-on by a speeding dirt truck who was in my lane "sharing the road" with a bicyclist. * I narrowly avoided

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-7272794263086229402011-06-13T09:52:00.000-04:002011-06-13T09:52:44.156-04:00

A few months back, the first time I visited our new dentist, 'removal of wisdom teeth' was once again added to my treatment plan.  (With my last dentist, I went so far as to visit an oral surgeon for the initial consult, but with our HMO they had to submit the paperwork to the insurance before the insurance would approve the procedure.  The paperwork got screwed up, and I wasn't in any hurry to

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-33183504607271899392011-06-07T17:51:00.001-04:002011-06-07T17:51:33.144-04:00

(a book-end post) Well, it took me about a zillion refreshes over multiple days (during which I found out a connect-seven of Scott pictures isn't nearly as uncommon as I originally suspected), but I finally got an all-Jamie banner: And because I know you're dying to know, these pictures are from a pretty good variety of places: 10-year Disney party, our room on the Disney Dream, 10-year Disney

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-37838545338689023382011-06-03T17:52:00.000-04:002011-06-03T17:52:16.577-04:00

I just noticed that all of the pictures in the gallery at the top of the blog currently contain Scott.  I can definitively say that I have never seen this happen before!  Also of note: only one picture contains any sort of booze.  It seems most of the time when there is a camera-worthy occasion, there is also beer and wine.  Or a mojito.  Or a margarita.  Refresh the screen a few times and

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-46836587326688211102011-05-24T23:51:00.001-04:002011-05-24T23:51:53.502-04:00

I know this photo is less than great, but I was so excited to see "my babies" AND an adult this morning when I left for work that I had to snap a picture. This is the first time I've seen any of them in over a week, and I wouldn't be surprised if it's the last time. All grown up and flying away...sigh... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-48260474389019741332011-05-13T18:31:00.000-04:002011-05-13T18:31:29.347-04:00

A quick read through the updates on my favorite blogs last night brought up a long-repressed memory.  The blog post in question was about the world's most awkward date, college dorm style.  And I'd like to share my own awkward date with you, but first two caveats: * Yes, I was young and stupid.  Not all young and stupid girls end up on the business end of a bloody scimitar. Some of us were also

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-20623019628602899162011-05-13T17:48:00.000-04:002011-05-13T17:48:49.471-04:00

I am funny, y'all. That is all.

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-47112926916644955812011-05-11T17:24:00.001-04:002011-05-11T17:39:26.906-04:00

Sometimes the jokes just write themselves...which is a good thing, because mine aren't very witty!  Above is an actual vending machine from an actual women's room I visited today.  I decided to file this image on the blog, since yesterday I shared a picture of a weird ad on a tampon box (plus my own stellar commentary) on Facebook and didn't get one single "like."  Anyway, on to the bad jokes:

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-89992525066589892962011-05-08T09:44:00.000-04:002011-05-08T09:44:19.100-04:00

How long does a ride in the car have to be to qualify as a road trip?  For me and Scott, I believe the answer is the distance between Orlando and Tampa.  Including the stop & go traffic at 'malfunction junction,' (if you've been there, you know where I mean) we're in the car for well over an hour.  That's plenty of time to sing along with the radio, drive fast, and get silly.  On a recent trip to

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-3648014483638556282011-05-08T09:17:00.000-04:002011-05-08T09:17:55.482-04:00

Here's a bit of randomness for you on a Sunday morning: (and if the video doesn't embed, which the preview suggests it won't, here's the link)

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-83358994260822764632011-05-03T17:46:00.001-04:002011-05-03T17:46:50.313-04:00

The bathroom. Both times. September 11, 2001: I was in the bathtub shaving my legs (yes, two momentous events at once. shut up!) when my dad knocked on the bathroom door and said he thought something big was happening, and that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. “Was it an accident?” “I don’t think so.” He had that tone of voice that said “I’m remaining calm on the outside but

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-30658460777713235672011-05-02T17:56:00.001-04:002011-05-02T17:56:27.364-04:00

This is one of those stories Scott just won't see the charm/humor in. Below is a conversation between me and one of the guys who work in my building. He's probably 20 years older than me and is one of those people who do a tight-rope walk on the line between friendly/flirty and harassment. Him: you *really* look great in that! 20 years ago you'd be in trouble. Me: 20 years ago you'd be in jail

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-71551537926823150952011-05-02T06:47:00.000-04:002011-05-02T06:47:31.494-04:00

I awoke this morning to the news that Osama bin Laden is dead. Kind of shocking, no? Even more shocking is that he was living in a mansion, and not in a mountainous cave.  I guess we lost that bet! I also awoke to the news of the American reaction: partying at Ground Zero and the White House.  They don't think this is over, do they?  I'm pretty sure bin Laden wasn't controlling his people with

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-19186936004970529792011-05-01T15:42:00.000-04:002011-05-01T15:42:28.288-04:00

The oven timer has about 45 minutes left on it, though dinner certainly isn't going to be before 5, since that's when Scott gets home from work.  I'm trying my hand at making Sunday pork ragout (a.k.a. my attempt at being an Italian grandmother, which is difficult, since I'm neither Italian nor have a grandmother to teach me how to make recipes from the old country!) again.  The last time I tried

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-55418250945839258952011-04-29T16:53:00.001-04:002011-04-29T16:54:30.620-04:00

Do you ever have one of those moments where you look around and feel like you have stopped on the side of the highway of life and everyone else is flying past you in a shiny new car?  Oh no?  Me neither... I had one of those moments earlier this week, and Scott and I agreed that I could have 24 hours to wallow ("it's like quicksand," I tried to explain to him, "you have to just be still. if you

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-60134443647966266572011-04-19T20:00:00.000-04:002011-04-19T20:00:10.916-04:00

It was November when I spotted this pair of bald eagles together for the first time.  In December, I realized that they were nesting.  The hatching probably happened in January, completely hidden from those of us on the ground.  I saw the chicks for the first time in February, and watched their fuzzy little heads sticking up more and more over the nest in March.  In the beginning of April, they

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-52671307851646083322011-04-19T17:03:00.000-04:002011-04-19T17:04:00.106-04:00

Scott snapped this picture after work. On one hand, triple-digit temperatures (even in the parking lot) displease me greatly. On the other hand, we made it through most of April before the truly oppressive heat and humidity kicked in. Small favors, right? Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-5730737142770004362011-04-17T14:21:00.000-04:002011-04-17T14:21:30.859-04:00

The dog next door was barking like mad a little while ago.  She's not a barker by nature, so I figured there was somebody outside.  When I looked, there was Harley walking along with a fish in his beak that was about the size of my hand.  Harley's head, as you probably remember, is about the size of a ping pong ball. I was upstairs and immediately galloped downstairs (yeah, about as graceful as

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-33311544203388410472011-04-09T14:42:00.000-04:002011-04-09T14:43:59.442-04:00

In the event of the Japanese Radioactive Tuna-pocalypse, we'll be ready to sell these babies on ebay for $50 a pop. In our defense, we buy it when it's BOGO, and it's been BOGO a lot recently! 21 cans of tuna? Yeah, I'd say that's excessive! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-36440084763653345052011-04-08T18:19:00.000-04:002011-04-08T18:19:18.454-04:00

It's been just over a month since the last time I stopped and took pictures of the babies.  They're so big! And kind of ugly! But also kind of cute.  They sit up on the edge of the nest and occasionally flap their wings. It won't be long now before those wings start to work for real. I only hope that I'm able to get a picture of one of them actually out of the nest before they go away...

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-65498793704867093682011-04-05T17:10:00.000-04:002011-04-05T17:12:22.834-04:00

Before we painted the garage, Scott had a spray-painted X on the wall that he'd use as a guide to know when his car was properly backed in. We painted over the X. And last night, on his first backing-in attempt, he hit my bike! This Hidden Mickey is just a temporary fix, but one I have faith in. Fingers crossed... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-19334617059865217422011-04-04T18:06:00.000-04:002011-04-04T18:06:49.607-04:00

I realized this morning that today is my baby sister's 10th birthday. I haven't seen her since she was two. This is the last picture I have with her. I think we'd all agree that I don't casually toss around the word 'hate.'  Like most hateful words, I think it's a little stronger than is generally appropriate.  But today Christina kept drifting into my mind, and every time I had to make a 

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-18278933708838315582011-04-04T07:20:00.001-04:002011-04-04T07:20:40.085-04:00

Next weekend, I plan to tackle my half of the garage with (powder room) purple. Can't wait! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-70343122386087033912011-04-03T14:30:00.001-04:002011-04-03T14:30:48.022-04:00

We painted the garage yesterday - a beautiful solid coat of white. So today I'm scribbling all over the walls. What do you think so far? Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-23084522188148543702011-03-31T17:13:00.000-04:002011-03-31T17:15:42.998-04:00

I took the route home from work that was least likely to flood out my car. Glad I didn't take the 2 lane country road! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-45428090972195361172011-03-11T19:02:00.000-05:002011-03-11T19:02:46.926-05:00

I made myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for breakfast yesterday morning.  There were only 3 slices of bread (plus the end pieces, which neither Scott nor I will eat), so I made it a double-decker. I ate it at my desk, and it was delicious. Last night, I dreamt that I wanted another PB&J sandwich, but remembered that we were out of bread.  And lo, I turned my head and saw a previously

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-91687012836346031472011-03-11T15:09:00.000-05:002011-03-11T15:09:40.584-05:00

Currently, Scott and I are sitting in the living room together, he playing some sort of shoot-'em-up game, and me playing Tetris Battle on Facebook (WHY are the rest of you not playing this game???).  His game has a steady stream of background dialog that I believe is supposed to be radio chatter, but I don't know because I generally tune it out. Me: "I could've sworn your game just said '

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-88280638281608358422011-03-10T07:17:00.001-05:002011-03-10T07:17:55.397-05:00

I guess I won't be driving to work with my windows down... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-60667773210381833182011-03-07T18:16:00.000-05:002011-03-07T18:16:58.463-05:00

Recycling: great for bottles and cans, less great for blogs.  That said, I feel that the previous post contained possibly the greatest run-on sentence ever and deserves another chance at the spotlight: This project hasn't been easy so far - the carpet is fo' shizzle on the to-do list, since it's got some blue spots that'll probably never come out even with the use of the Kilo Memorial Steam

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-59897212010453826532011-03-04T18:19:00.000-05:002011-03-04T18:19:10.367-05:00

Picture it: a room with a dark blue (some might call it "admiral blue") accent wall, the matching tray ceiling glowing with thousands of twinkling stars (or however many glow-in-the-dark stars come in the package...), a white ceiling fan cooling the air... That's actually as far as the vision goes right now.  We've tentatively picked out the color that the rest of the room will be, and are

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-20551411759496774962011-03-03T23:45:00.000-05:002011-03-04T00:16:54.142-05:00

Sometimes a girl is destined to try on a fancy dress.  After all, if it wasn't meant to be, it wouldn't have been on the rack in my size and I wouldn't have been wearing my clear-strap bra. ...and as I told Facebook, I justify this little "me time" by pointing out that 32 is really just two 16's.  I should have tried on TWO prom dresses!  And by the way, I love this dress WAY more than I loved

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-2916041808473552032011-03-02T09:20:00.000-05:002011-03-02T09:21:51.002-05:00

Driving home feeling sleep-deprived after an overnight shift? I recommend transporting a bunch of balloons in your back seat. Not only will the swirling colors and lack of rearview mirror functionality keep your mind focused, but you'll also be continually bopped on the back of the head! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-29634092709980191322011-02-26T20:23:00.001-05:002011-02-26T20:23:41.851-05:00

Elphie enjoyed the open window weather this afternoon. Sadly, we came upstairs to an unbearably hot bedroom, so the air conditioner is on for the first time in 2011. Oh well, we enjoyed it while it lasted. Right, Elph? Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-85088146515345511992011-02-25T15:39:00.000-05:002011-02-25T15:39:23.942-05:00

WE HAVE AN EAGLE BABY!!!  Actually, we may have two little chickie-poos up there, but we've only seen what looks to be the back of the head of the second one. (not visible above) As thrilled as I am to finally have proof of life up there, I'm slightly disappointed to find that it (they?) is probably already 3-4 weeks old.  I came up with that from photos from this entry (3 weeks) and this entry

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-64499980658509822142011-02-24T19:59:00.001-05:002011-02-24T19:59:53.259-05:00

Pictured: the Orange County Courthouse at 7:20 this morning. Not Pictured: Jamie, annoyed that she is 40 minutes early for juror report time. Great time doing my civic duty today. Can't talk about it, which is a shame because the whole experience, as Mom predicted, would've been excellent blog fodder. Bonus: I didn't get picked for my jury, so I was out of there before noon and on my way back

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-47026620819001738882011-02-23T18:25:00.000-05:002011-02-23T18:26:21.667-05:00

Great egrets and wood storks look so silly up in the treetops. You'll just have to take my word, since this picture is so lousy! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-61245399009112725262011-02-17T19:17:00.001-05:002011-02-17T19:17:31.777-05:00

I miss seeing the road and the rest of the trees on my way to work. I hear it's going to be not much better tomorrow. Sigh...maybe next week? Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-25687709750854485702011-02-16T20:20:00.001-05:002011-02-16T20:20:25.970-05:00

You can tell this ibis is used to people. The ones at the house would never come this close to people! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-44230535906895988592011-02-14T17:16:00.000-05:002011-02-14T17:17:35.761-05:00

Milo and Elph playing tag under the bathroom door. Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-55060191951029092022011-02-12T09:41:00.000-05:002011-02-12T09:41:21.305-05:00

The sandhill cranes were out this morning, and I thought I'd try to replicate this picture, only with Elphie sitting in the doorway.  Unfortunately for me, the grill is further on the patio than usual, and got in my picture attempts.  But while I had the camera out, the bird closest to me flapped her wings wide. I lifted the camera to my eye to get a picture of the wingspan. The other bird jumped

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-36298970138710449452011-02-11T18:00:00.001-05:002011-02-12T09:25:16.323-05:00

This photo was taken on Flamingo Crossings Blvd., where I have yet to see a flamingo!

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-27041893725849651862011-02-09T17:26:00.002-05:002011-02-09T17:34:55.601-05:00

Scott and I carpooled home last night, and therefore back in this morning. Since I'm not usually on that side of town at that time of day, I took the opportunity to snap the sunrise. Sadly, I think I missed the best colors by about 2 minutes. Stupid power lines! On my way home this afternoon, on a road where the speed limit is a painful 20 MPH, I observed that Aerosmith's "Sweet Emotion" isn't

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-64886674069467578142011-02-08T22:19:00.000-05:002011-02-08T22:19:38.507-05:00

Scene: Waiting room of doctor's office Time: 7:04 am Man: I'm here for bloodwork...and whoever I'm with, make sure they know I'm really bad with needles. Receptionist: (smiling) Just let them know when they come and get you. They'll take care of you. Man: OK, because I can't handle needles at all. Time: 7:08 am Woman: Does he even know I'm here? Receptionist: Excuse me? Woman: Does he know

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-65352673032774728492011-02-08T07:44:00.001-05:002011-02-09T17:36:31.204-05:00

I tucked my gate remote into my car visor, thinking it would be a convenient place to store it. Great plan, up until the sun was in my eyes, I flipped down the visor, and my remote flew out and dangled there in front of my face. And then I almost crashed because I was laughing so hard. I should probably move that... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-32428441798864261672011-02-07T17:01:00.001-05:002011-02-09T17:36:31.208-05:00

It's been like this all day. Blah... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-31558083833534469012011-02-03T21:01:00.000-05:002011-02-09T17:36:31.211-05:00

I know this is a terrible photo, and it's blurry and impossible to read, but trust me to paraphrase: "I have so many talents and so many extracurriculars that my mom obviously puts certain members of Jamie's family to shame!" It's the bio of one of the 4 boys who play Billy in this show. And also: scrape together your pennies and go see Billy Elliot. OMG, I can't remember the last time I went

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-35093296867086567122011-02-02T18:08:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:08:23.964-05:00

Today's Photo of the Day... isn't really.  It's actually a PhotoShop of the Day.  And truth be told, it's not even that.  It's a clumsily doctored photo done on Paint.  With a back story.  So let's start there, and attempt to use full sentences with subjects and verbs. (but before I start, in defense of my poor writing, I'd like to say that I'm sleep-wacky right now.  I worked midnight to 8:30

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-90823385409659766382011-02-01T17:03:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:09:37.161-05:00

I set out to take a picture of the birds on the light poles that I see every morning. The fog and the location of the sun pulled the focus, but I still think it's a pretty neat shot. Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-91352500284673690742011-01-31T17:49:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:09:37.169-05:00

I ordered the pair on the left. They're on clearance and only go up to a size 9. I bought them anyway. Fingers crossed that I can squeeze my fat calves into them... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-22424911533228555412011-01-29T16:02:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:09:37.177-05:00

World Market impulse buys are always cool. We got these for AP and self-rising flour. Keeping it on the counter is more ergonomic, since I'm a master baker now. They have smaller ones, too. Maybe for cornmeal? Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-31781152460650952972011-01-27T17:55:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:09:37.185-05:00

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-71668800242175192132011-01-26T18:19:00.000-05:002011-01-26T18:19:08.585-05:00

There is no photo today because I left my Purpleberry at work.  Even with the laptop on my lap, I feel disconnected.  How disconnected? Scott got home an hour ago tentatively holding a jury summons in my direction and this is the first time I've shared that with the outside world. Jury duty.  In a new county.  In a month.  I'm #100, and am hoping they only call 1-99.  On the bright side, I

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-48703251827702500632011-01-25T17:42:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:09:37.193-05:00

Glad I'm already home! Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-59644041610104214252011-01-24T20:23:00.000-05:002011-01-24T20:23:10.902-05:00

As I believe I mentioned before, Scott and I bought each other a 2-night preview cruise of the Disney Dream for Christmas.  The cruise was this past weekend, and we had SO much fun and ate SO much food and had SO many new experiences that nothing I could possibly type could possibly encompass it all. The whole trip wasn't "OMG BEST VACATION EVERRRRR" by a long shot.  Our dining room servers were

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-2422692581934177742011-01-24T17:50:00.000-05:002011-02-02T18:09:37.200-05:00

I think the Scrubbing Bubbles are getting lazy. Power tools? I thought they were supposed to do the work for me... Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-51791544012537946182011-01-17T12:53:00.001-05:002011-01-18T19:57:48.268-05:00

The weather is gray and rainy. All you want to do is nap, but you can't find your favorite teddy bear. What do you do? Just follow Milo's lead and cuddle with yourself!

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-70676195447527824432011-01-16T19:50:00.001-05:002011-01-18T19:53:54.212-05:00

When cookies attack: these cookies joined together in the oven to form mutant four-tier snowmen of deliciousness. We dispatched them with a spatula and two hearty appetites.

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-30376602311378086442011-01-15T19:44:00.001-05:002011-01-18T19:49:17.543-05:00

Who needs a collar and leash? Certainly not Elph - she'll take herself for a walk. No human required!

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-69301500464324367012011-01-14T18:06:00.000-05:002011-01-14T18:06:15.262-05:00

This is actually a picture of the eagle landing.  With wings spread and one foot in the air, the only thing keeping this from being a really great picture is the fact that you can't see its head!  Here are some bonus photos: 

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-2332185246546214632011-01-14T17:58:00.000-05:002011-01-14T17:58:02.740-05:00

Below are two photos I missed posting earlier in the week: Scott displays his "big catch" (which is actually a 6" baby hammerhead shark and a little trick photography) A completely NOT trick shot of a Florida red-shouldered hawk

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20247098.post-35552916302998762062011-01-13T19:50:00.000-05:002011-01-13T19:50:49.404-05:00

Not pictured: striped scarf or one of my two striped knit ski caps (one of which Scott was wearing around the house earlier while the windows were open due to an unfortunately scented carpet cleaner).  What can I say? Scott has his argyle and I have my stripes! Also, please don't judge me by these hideous shoes. I only wear them when it's too cold to go out without socks.  I need boots!

Jamie the ParkHopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721658062040599027noreply@blogger.com1