Melba Toast

The all-new 2006 model Mel. In stores soon.

2005-08-27T22:06:00.000-04:00

I'm getting new hair on Thursday. I've got the style picked out. It's a far cry from anything I have ever done before. Ever. It should be fun to see how people react to it. They'll be all like, "Whoa! Who's that?" And it'll be me. Only they won't recognize me. It'll be good fun, I swear.
Also, I just made my appointment for my new tattoo on Friday. My friend's Melissa and Patricia are coming with me. They will also be getting inked. I am taking their tattoo virginity away from them. Score! The design for my new tattoo kicks butt in all kinds of ways. I can not wait. It will be fun. Check out the MySpace place to see it. Pictures will be posted all over the place once I actually get it. I can't wait.
Check back next week for the all-new Mel. It'll be exciting, I guarantee it.
Breakfast tomorrow morning with Steph and Dustin and Natalie and probably Jo and Pete and Dave. Steph leaves tomorrow afternoon. That's not cool. Good night, Internet-land.

Good morning, good morning, good morning! It's time to rise and shine!

2005-08-26T10:43:00.000-04:00

Tim Horton's is always better at 3:00 in the morning. Hanging out with friends is good any time of the day. It's just a little more entertaining when the workers and other patrons are laughing at you. By the way, Jo, I passed out as soon as I got home. Thanks!
My cousin-in-law, Vasanthy, is pregnant. 3 months pregnant! I'm too excited for her and Matt. They'll have ubercute babies!!
I'm going to Germany for Christmas. I'm pretty excited for that. I get to see Markus and Margit's kids. That'll be fun. I've seen pictures and a little video footage, they're adorable. Germany in the winter is beautiful. I can't wait to spend Christmas with everyone...and new year's!!
Now I'm going to shower because I smell and I need to wake up a little more. Then I'm going to harass Jo. *Insert evil laugh here*. Wow, I'm so tired.

In those jeans....

2005-08-23T16:04:00.000-04:00

I'm going to see Matchbook Romance on October 28th in Pittsburgh. Then I might end up staying for Halloween. I'm pretty excited about that. Yay. So is my little cousin, Brian. He's my youngest cousin and he's been asking when I'm heading down to Pittsburgh again 'cause he misses me. Aw! That's so cute! He misses me.
So, I went shopping yesterday with my mom and Nat and realized something about myself that I never really knew before: I like shopping. I think it's because I've lost a noticeable amount of weight and I don't get really pissed off anymore when I try on clothes. Instead, I take my time and enjoy it! I know it sounds weird, but when people look at you and you know they're probably thinking "Wow, those jeans look great on her" instead of "Oh, God! Please take those off!" it feels kind of good... YES! I probably spent a little more than I should have, but that's okay. I needed new clothes. My old ones are starting to look very, very baggy on me. I love it. Natalie walked in the house this morning after work, gave me and up and down look and said, "You look so hot". It was a little disturbing, 'cause she's my little sister, but it's a nice little ego-boost at the same time. Score!
I also bought Natasha Bedingfield's CD yesterday. It's called "Unwritten". She's got a gorgeous voice and her songs are beautiful. They're not all about boys and superficial things. It's a good CD. Five stars from me.
Labor Day weekend is coming up. Amy might come for that weekend. That would be good. It would make me very, very happy. Indeed. Also, I'm gonna have to plan a trip to Toronto soon. Hm. I'm excited. I've been to Toronto before, but when I was younger with my family. And it was mostly just airport stuff or going to the Consulat there. So, I'm excited. It should be a good time, I do believe. Maybe I'll stop in Hamilton on the way home? I don't know. Only if Jo's there, I guess. Wouldn't that be GRAND??? It sure would.
That is all for now, I guess. I'm going to clean my room. I do that a lot lately. I work so hard to clean it only to have it messy a couple of days later. Why do I bother? I'm so weird.

I hear music playing....

2005-08-21T05:31:00.000-04:00

There is only one word to describe my evening: magical. I still can't believe it, to be honest. I was not expecting anything like this whatsoever. We met down by the water at 8:00ish (it was supposed to be 7:00 or 7:30 but Mel wasn't too punctual...). The date ended around 4:30. So I guess you could say it went very well. We talked about pretty much anything and everything under the sun. From our exes, to politics (yesss!), different cultures, parenting and, yes, even colitis. The bonus there was that I didn't have to explain colitis to him. He just knew what it was. I loved that. It was amazing. We sat down at the Marina for hours and hours talking and laughing the night away. I have never smiled so big and laughed so hard so much. It was amazing. We seemed to really click. We were both really just expecting to get drinks and then be off. I honestly thought I'd be home around 12:30 or so. But we surprised each other. It was the most comfortable date I've ever been on. And by "comfortable", I do not mean "safe". I mean, Mel was free to be Mel. With all of her Kuchta quirks!! It was amazing. We made fun of each other, laughed at each other's corny jokes and were both amazed by how well everything ended going.
There's so much more to the story, but I am so exhausted. I need to sleep. Here's how my story of the evening ends: I will mostly likely be heading up to Toronto in a little while for a visit. He'll cook for me (he cooks too!!!) and we'll develop pictures together the good old fashioned way...in a dark room!!! I'm going to be introduced to sushi (the food, not my cat) and get a wonderful tour of Toronto by the cutest tour guide ever! What a fabulous evening.....

The weekend forecast.

2005-08-19T21:11:00.000-04:00

So....Tonight, I'm going to the Tomato Fest's beer tent. Yippeee...... I'm definitely not as excited about this as certain other people. Maybe I'm just getting too old for that kind of stuff. Frankly, I'd much rather sit on the patio at the Seacliffe and have a glass of wine. I really think I am getting old. Oh boy..... So, anyways. Beer tent tonight. Oh....joy....no, really.......... My friend Amanda's coming to get me soon and then we're off. Should be swell. Chances are I won't be staying too long because 1) there will be many people there that I really don't want to see, 2) I want to get up early tomorrow to get some stuff done and I'm expecting a phone call in the morning, 3) I just don't like huge crowds, 4) it's supposed to rain.
But tomorrow....Oooooh tomorrow!! "Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love ya tomorrow, you're only a daaaaaay awaaaaaaay!!!!" I'm looking forward to tomorrow in a nervous sort of way. I'm going on a date!! Whoop whoop! First time in, well, I don't know, but it's definitely been a while!!! I'm pretty stoked. It's with a guy I had a crush on in grade 9 which is a bit crazy. He doesn't live in Leamington anymore which is a huge bonus! I'm really looking forward to it. Yay.
Ummm....I think that's it. Except for Jo rocks. She used a quote of mine on her blog. Yep. I rule. There's a link over there >, so ch-ch-check it out. She's definitely awesome.
Sooo....peace out. I'm going to the beer tent with all the other Leamington winners. Yeah!

I'm gettin' freakified!!

2005-08-16T21:32:00.000-04:00

I just got official confirmation this afternoon from my mother that I am, in fact, permitted to get my fourth tattoo without getting kicked out as long as I follow certain rules. I'll tell you what those rules are now. She has to approve of the design (which she does), it can't be too big, it can't be in a very visible location. This is good. I'm getting a freesia (a very pretty flower) which represents innocence. Since I'm still relatively innocent. Anyways, it's going on my foot. OWIE! I definitely can't wait! I'm going to get it next time I'm in Pittsburgh. Excellent! Just thought I'd share my extreme excitement with everyone. Yay! Happy Mel!

I hate scary movies...

2005-08-15T00:50:00.000-04:00

I just watched "Saw" with the pink-haired Spanish monkey (Pete), the Monster and Jenn B. I hated it because it scared me. However, there were moments that made us laugh hysterically. The acting is HORRIBLE!!! Even so, didn't like it too much. I don't recommend it to anyone. Ugh.

Post #2

2005-08-11T20:11:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th anniversary to Nicole and Dave!!

Family reunion Weber-style

2005-08-11T12:28:00.000-04:00

Yeah!! My aunt and uncle flew in from Germany late last night!!! YESSS!!! Eckhard and Judy Weber are the coolest. Minus his love for weird apple cider that does many bad things to a person. We're going to Uncle Wolfgang's house this afternoon to see them and I can not wait!! I love those Germans. Awesome. Just thought I'd share my excitement!! Yea yea yea!!!

Get me outta here!!!!

2005-07-28T00:31:00.000-04:00

Soo...I just had a bowl of Kraft Dinner for lunch. Now I'm sitting here. With nothing to do. I am so bored. But it's not like a once-in-a-while type thing where maybe if I find something interesting to do my boredom will be cured. Oh no. It's not that simple. It's a perpetual boredom. The boredom that comes from living in Leamington. I hate it here. With such a passion. I've been looking for a second job like crazy so I can save up and get the heck away from here (I'm thinking Pittsburgh area...more downtown where the life of the city is instead of a dump like Sharpsburg). There's something that might be in the works and I'm hoping and praying that it goes through, because the sooner I get a second job, the sooner I can get out of here because I'll have more money to do so. It's been so hard, too, because Leamington is developing it's residential areas like crazy. Houses are going up like nobody's business. But the business sector is definitely not booming. So we have all these people moving into the area and living around here, but not enough jobs to keep everyone employed. It's dumb. I don't really understand it. So I need out. Not just that, but I'm a city girl at heart. So you can only imagine what living in a farming community does to me. And it's so flat around these parts....ugh! In Pittsburgh, all the roads go up and down and wind around everywhere, it's like a roller coaster for your car. I loves it!! So...pray for me to get this second job. It just might be my ticket outta here.

Is it so wrong?

2005-07-18T12:59:00.000-04:00

Honest opinions here, guys. Ready for this? Is it so wrong for me to want answers from Sean? Yes, I'm over him. I'm glad to be single again. I'm glad that I now have the opportunity to pursue my passions without having to consider how my decisions affect someone else (selfish as it sounds). But I still get pretty pissed off sometimes over the whole situation. So, is it so wrong to want to confront Sean and ask him why this all went to hell so fast? I feel like I deserve at least an excuse. I want to hear his reasons for promising me everything and then basically disappearing from the face of the earth. So, basically, do you think that this is justified? Is it okay for me to want all of this? How do I go about doing it since he doesn't answer his phone (because, in my opinion, he's too much of a chicken shit to face this)? I've gotten suggestions from people that go from calling his parents to practically stalking him. I doubt I'll become the stalker-type considering I do have a life. Anyways...I need opinions. What does everyone think. I mean, this guy was basically stringing me along for a big chunk of time and I'd like to know why he did so. Or maybe I should just resign myself to the simple fact that Sean's an asshole and that is the only explanation for this whole mess.....

Honey, I'm Home.

2005-07-08T09:38:00.000-04:00

I'm home from Pittsburgh. We got home at 5:00 this morning. That was a peach and a half. I really like sleeping in the car.....not really. I hate it. So here's a summarization of my Pittsburgh trip.
I went swimming with Amy and Tammy at Tom's house. Tom's a bear rug. He's very hairy. Mark is not hairy. Although he does have stubble because apparently he shaves...everywhere. Brian made fun of me because I live in Canada. Then the focus shifted and everyone made fun of Mark because, well, he's Mark. Then they made fun of Seng because he's Asian. But, inevitably, the focus came back to me and the Canada jokes continued. They were pretty funny, I have to admit. I had my fun too and left no one out. I thanked the Asian Kid (that's Seng's nickname) for the SARS he gave to Canada. Tom's dad enjoyed that one. They were all very, very nice and I definitely had an amazing time. I got invited back in August for Tom's birthday party. Coincidentally, it's the same weekend as Tammy's birthday and I was planning on going down then anyways. Bonus. Oh, by the way, the view from Tom's deck is phenomenal and I'm in love with Pennsylvania.
The next day, we went to the Sharpsburg Family Worship Center's Patriotic Celebration and Picnic. It was very nice. I have to say, I really enjoyed the children's choir performance of "America, The Beautiful". It was definitely a very patriotic celebration and it reinforced my whole "proud to be an American" stand. God bless America. Hooah.
I went to Dave and Buster's with Amy and Jon. It's like a grown up Chuck E. Cheese's. It was crazy. We didn't play any games, though. We sat at the bar and just talked. My cousin Jon is so friggin' smart, it's amazing. I love talking to him because it's not very often that you find a member of the Kuchta family who knows what they're talking about. It was nice. Oh, and Steph, if you're reading this, he's still crazy about you. He's not too happy about the Dustin thing.
On the Fourth, we had a family cook-out at Aunt Karen's. My dad's cousin, Kevin, and his family came over. My aunt's friend Noreen stopped by and so did Seng (him and Tammy are dating...which kind of confuses me for so many reasons, but whatever). Everyone was swimming and eating and having a great time. At one point, I walked over to the pool to talk to Steph Kuchta because I love her and Seng thought it would be funny to splash me. He knows I don't like water (he learned that at Tom's house) so I refuse to swim. So he splashed me, a lot. Then Uncle Ed thought I wasn't wet enough and squirted me down with the hose. That was great. I changed. Then we watched fireworks from a distance. Then Amy's fiance came over and they pretty much ditched me. I was under the impression that the 3 of us would be going out when all of a sudden Amy announced "Mike and I are leaving. We'll be back." Aunt Karen was pissed that I was getting ditched. I don't think the word 'pissed' covers how I was feeling. Seng came over again and he felt bad for me. Thanks for understanding, Asian.
Tuesday, we were going to go to a Pirates game 'cause tickets are cheap but it started pouring rain. Very bad. So instead, Amy, Beth and I went to Red Lobster. That was fun. I had shrimp and Chardonnay. What a great combo. Then I had to key lime pie and that was enough to get me over Sean. I'm not really sure how that works, but a slice of incredible pie eased all my heartache. Then Beth choked really bad and Amy and I thought that we'd have to take her to the hospital but then we started laughing at her so hard that we thought it'd be better if I tried the heimlich maneuver first. So I went and sat beside Beth but I was laughing too hard to attempt saving her life. Out of nowhere, little, itty-bitty Beth let out a huge burp (we got a few looks from some surrounding tables) and that stopped the choking. As if nothing had happened, Amy declared "I want cheesecake" and the laughter resumed.
I learned a few things on this trip to Pittsburgh:
1) Seng and 'the guys' aren't bad at all. In fact, I think that they're some of the nicest people I've ever met. Minus Tom's dog Gizmo.
2) I can always count on Beth for a laugh.
3) Tammy's more dependable than others.
4) I love Steph Kuchta. With all my heart.
5) Colleen Kuchta's beautiful and that angers me. I mean she's beautiful.

So, I'll be heading down to Pittsburgh again the second weekend of August for Tom and Tammy's birthday. I can't wait for that. I definitely need to move down there because, frankly, I can't get enough of that place and I think almost everyone I saw this week told me I should. It was fun. I think I will.

Happy Canada Day

2005-07-01T15:21:00.000-04:00

To all of my Canadian friends, enjoy the holiday! And in 3 more days....Happy Independance Day to me!! Have a safe and fun weekend guys!!! Can't wait to hear the stories.

Breaking up is hard to do.

2005-06-30T11:35:00.000-04:00

So Sean's been home (in Erie) for a few days now according to what I was told the night before my birthday. I haven't heard from him (as if this surprises anyone who knows what's going on). And now that it's getting closer to my trip to Pittsburgh, I'm starting to feel weird. I can't really describe it. It's a mixture of a bunch of different feelings. I'm not really understanding this. I had a dream about him last night, too. That was pure weirdness. We saw each other in Pittsburgh and things were peachy keen, like nothing ever went sour. I woke up with tears. Part of me wishes things could still work out with him and the other part of me is glad that I'm finally able to move on. It's the strangest thing. I don't really like it because I'm in a super confusing place right now. Not cool. It's strange. There are so many mixed up and weird things that I'm feeling and it's so hard to figure out what I want or don't want. So, I'm going to do what's best for me instead of what I think I want to do or not. I've decided that what's best is for me to move on. Not necessarily onto the next relationship that falls into my lap, but just to move on with my life. Ask God what He wants me to do. 'Cause I'm sure what God wants out of my life is way cooler than what I want.
Anyways, I'm leaving very, very soon for Pittsburgh. And aside from the whole feeling weird about Sean thing (even though the chances of me bumping into him while we're there are slim to none), I'm super stoked!! I definitely can't wait to see Amy. Her and her fiance are going to Mexico for a missions trip on July 7 so I get to see her just before they leave. And I get to see my Bethy-kins!!! And, of course, there's Pap and Miss Ruby and Kevin and his family, and Michael (yay!). I am so excited to see everyone. And I get to see the "works of fire" as Natalie put it the other night. She's so funny.
Okay. That's all. Goodbye, my friends.

Oh...here's another band you should probably check out: www.motioncitysoundtrack.com... I love those guys.

Only 4 days!! Holy hopscotch, Batman!!!

2005-06-28T15:14:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness!!! Only 4 more days until we leave for Pittsburgh. Yessss!!! I can't wait. Love the place. I was talking to Amy the other day (actually, a few times the other day...we've become obssessed with each other, it seems) and we've got so much planned. Sharpsburg Family Worship Center (www.sfwc.org) is having their second annual Patriotic Celebration and Picnic at Kennedy Park in Sharpsburg. Amy's been going to SFWC regularly and it's become our "home church" while we're in the Pittsburgh area so we'll definitely be going to that. And, of course, there's the whole fireworks deal on the 4th. That'll definitely be a great time. We're going out for breakfast with my mom ('cause she's the only sane role-model type woman in this family, I think). We'll be going out with Mikey (gold star for him). A whole whack-load of fun things to be done.
Not only that...but I'm going back to the Pitt in August for Warped Tour and a Lucky Boys Confusion concert!! YEAH!! I can't wait. We went to Warped one year at the Pittsburgh Post Gazette Pavilion and we loved it. We've been wanting to go back but just haven't gotten around to it. So now we're finally gonna do it. YESSS!!!
Then, of course, my family will be heading to DC!! I can't wait. I've wanted to go for as long as I can remember and now we are. Yea yea! Can't wait. I'm gonna see if I can meet the President. Play a game of bool, have a few cold ones. You know, chillin' with the Dubya....yeah....sure.....
Anyways..it's only a short 4 days a way but it definitely doesn't feel like it. I have so much laundry to do...packing...general "getting ready" stuff. Ah! I guess it didn't help that I had a Timmie's large triple-triple last night at 11:30 and didn't get to bed until about 3:00am. That definitely needs to stop 'cause it is wearing me out. *Yawn* So...it's time to get everything together now. Yeah for vacation!! Can't wait.
Anyways...off I go...I should be starting with my laundry...and I have errands to run...and I have to call Amy and Amanda....and....ARGH!!!

Bands you should know...

2005-06-26T17:15:00.000-04:00

Okay, I love local talent. I love it a lot. So much to offer and, generally speaking, they haven't sold out quite yet like the big boys have. So, to help out some local talent (mostly from Pittsburgh, one from Leamington), I'm going to post some bands on here that you really need to check out. Considering so many people look at this blog, I'm sure it's going to help a whole lot..... But, hey, I'm doing my part right? So, go listen and love them.

The Pittsburghers-
The Berlin Project (www.berlinproject.com)
Punchline (www.punchkids.com)
The Takeover UK (www.myspace.com/thetakeoveruk)

the Leamingtonite-
Lois Must Die (www.myspace.com/loismustdiemusic)

And one that's not so local but still rocks my face off-
Vanilla Sky (www.vanillasky.com)

Wow...

2005-06-23T11:52:00.000-04:00

...we got DSL today. I still can't believe how fast everything is. I'm getting a little dizzy actually. Nice.
I'm going to get my haircut now. Bye.

Moving sisters, flying planes and wet hair

2005-06-19T18:26:00.000-04:00

Jess is moving out. Two thumbs up for that. It makes me a little happy. July 1 and we have a spare room in the house. Score.
I want to go to Germany. I may go in the fall. Quite possibly in the winter. It's going to take every penny that I have. Literally. Every penny. But I do believe it would be well worth it. I'm thankful for the previous 2 trips with my family because I've learned many things. Germans are friendly. When you're walking in the mountains, whether they know you or not, you get a hello. They're just friendly people. Be careful while walking through town, German cars are beautiful and you might get crushed if you try to chase one. European boys are, well, they're european boys, need I say more? German beer is second to none in the entire universe. I do not care what the Anheuser Bush or Labbatt Brewing Company say, I stand firm. Once you've tasted German beer, all the rest is just secondary. Do not drink Uncle Ecke's apple cider. Under no circumstances - DO NOT TOUCH IT!!!!! I don't think I can stress that point enough. Get ready to cry on the return flight because it's one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Bring your walking shoes - they will be a necessity. Three little words, "Eine bier, bitter" (One beer, please). Bring tons of film. I hope it works out because I love that country. It's so gorgeous. Besides, they gave us Kraftwerk. I plan on tattooing the flag on my lower back. Go Deutschland.
Anyways, my hair's wet so I'm going to dry it now. Have a great day, kiddos.

I can't feel my heart right now....

2005-06-16T16:31:00.000-04:00

So, I'm not going to go into great detail. I'm just going to say that there's been some changes going on in Mel-World. The biggest one being I am single once again. I don't want to talk about it because it hurts too much at this point. And I don't like that. I'd like to think I'm stronger than that, but apparently, not so much. But at least I'm not a bumbling fool like I was with Rob. Not only that, but I need to work on putting this behind me so I can focus more on my future and becoming the woman that God wants me to be and work on furthering myself as a photographer. So, I'm just going to paste what I posted on MySpace on here. And please don't leave any pity-full comments. If anything, tell me how strong I am and I'm better than him and that I'm a survivor and he's going to end up with an ugly bag with false teeth, a wart on her nose, a weave and eleven toes.

"Today was the first day I actually cried about Sean. The more I think about it, the more I realize I don't think I fell in love with Sean, I'm pretty sure I fell in love with the person he made me believe he was. There are so many things that have happened recently that make me realize he probably wasn't as amazing as I thought he was. I can't feel my heart anymore. I don't know if it hurts or not, because it's just numb. My sister asked if I wanted a hug. No. What I want is to look at Sean and as him why. I want him to know that I'm hurt but I am stronger than this and I'll get past him. But I don't want him to see my tears. I'm hurt, but I don't want to think he's got control. As Jenn Weebah said, I deserve so much better than to be treated this way. I think the predominant thought going through my mind has been "Maybe I just wasn't good enough". I know I shouldn't be thinking that, but I can't really help myself. I don't know what's going on anymore, really. I just need to get away I think........(what a perfect way to lead into what I have to say next)

I'm going to NYC!!!! At the beginning of July, my family's going for a little while and then we're heading to Pittsburgh for the Fourth. I'm so excited. There are so many things we want to do and I don't think we have enough time to do them. So, Natalie and I decided the only way to fix that problem is to forget about sleeping. We'll drink tons of coffee/energy drinks and tour the city 24 hours, that way we should get most of it done. We'll see. The photographical opportunities that this trip presents excite me too much. I can't wait!!!"

Okay, I'm gonna go for a walk now. I was going to eat something but let's face it, it's summer time and I can't afford to drown my depression with food. So I'm going to be a little more productive and just walk. It'll probably turn into a run...then I'll probably kick some unknowing innocent bystander. Whoever that may be, I apologize in advance.

Situation rectified

2005-06-13T22:07:00.000-04:00

Okay, so it was recently brought to my attention that my MySpace link wasn't workin' over there. That annoyed me 'cause I'm so dumb where comuters are concerned. So, I think I fixed the issue. I'm pretty sure I did. Go ahead and click on the link and check out those birthday pictures (ugh....I can't believe myself that night!). Enjoy...if that's at all possible.

A photographical journey through the day we celebrated my birth.

2005-06-11T20:49:00.000-04:00

To see pictures of that oh-so-marvelous day, just click the link over there > for my MySpace thingy. Click on the link to "View More Pics". They're, um, fun? Yeah for Pittsburgh celebrations. My Pittsburgh people rock. I must say, I love them.

Satan lives in my house.

2005-06-10T23:05:00.000-04:00

Okay, so he might not really be Satan, but close enough. He comes in the form of a small, grey cat. His codename is "Sushi". I hate him. I hate him so bad. My parents and I were sitting in the yard today enjoying the nice weather we've been having. Maya was chewing on a stick (she's very dumb) and then Sushi wandered into the yard. So I picked up my mom's sandal and threw it at Sushi. "Why did you do that?" My mom asked. "Oh. I didn't realize I needed a reason to hate him". Dad laughed. Really, it was great.
There was a bonfire tonight at the Weber Estate. It was great. My flesh was eaten by mosquitoes. I probably have West Nile now. Good times. There were a lot of people there that I don't even know.
I want to move away from Leamington. I don't like it here. At all. Especially the neighbor. Get me away from Leamington and tomatoes and small farming communities. I need me a big city with noise, traffic, crazy people peddling fake watches on the corner and lots of activity. Yeah, that's what I'm talking about.
Good night.

A brief description of my birthday celebrations....

2005-06-07T00:57:00.000-04:00

Saturday night > I got to talk to Sean. Yay. It wasn't for long. He got his own place. Double yay. Called up good ol' Mikey (not the fiance of Amy, the cousin of her). Walked down to The Parlour with Amy and Aunt Karen. Mike met us there. Then Uncle Ed. We wanted to kill the juke box...country music - enough said. Put cash in juke box. Played it old school. Pink Floyd, yeah! Got bored. Shot of Jager with Mike. Ouch. My throat burns. Walked up to Pod's Landing. ID got scanned. Scanner didn't like my ID. Scanner didn't like Mike's ID either. Asked the bartender if he was allowed to just look at the date minus the scanning. He did. Smirnoff Twisted Green Apple. "Can you tell the difference between these porn pictures?" "I'm so grossed out right now". Not a lot of people. Suddenly, a lot of people. "Hey! It's her birthday!" says Aunt Karen. "Happy Birthday!" said everyone in the bar. Mike smelled good. So did his armpits. I drank Aunt Karen's beer because she forgot about it. I met a lot of people. "Are you wearing your party shirt?" Then I was given a shot of tequila and 2 shots of 151-proof rum. That made me die. I was dead at that moment. Goodbye to Mike. "Happy birthday, Mel." he said. I said, "Michael, you smell wonderfully delightful. Thank you for that." I somehow ended up on the couch. I don't remember how or when. I woke up and my head hurt very much. Tequila and 151 are not friends of mine. I will never again drink with Mitessers. I may possibly do so with a Wier and definitely a Foley, but no Mitessers ever again. They are crazy people. Happy birthday to me...I think.

MY BIRFDAY!!!

2005-06-02T13:53:00.000-04:00

So, my birthday's on Sunday. I can't wait. My parents and I leave tomorrow morning for Pittsburgh. My dad's on midnights (this should be interesting) so my mom and I are picking him up in Windsor at 4:00 in the morning. Ugh. I love getting up so early. I've been packed since yesterday. My bag's sitting by the front door ready to go. I can't wait. I talked to Amy yesterday and she's pretty stoked too. We're going to a show in Oakland (the best part of Pittsburgh) by a band called Protoculture. I think we're going anyways. She needs to get more details and then we'll see. And Saturday night we're going out to celebrate. I'm not sure who all is going out with us, but she said she's going to make some phone calls and try to get some people together. I can't wait. I hate getting older, but I love birthdays. My friend Patricia and I were discussing how it's great because an entire week before and after your birthday, you can get away with close to anything using the excuse "it's my birthday". It rocks. I love it a bit. So, we'll probably cross the border at around 5:00am (I'll be so thrilled, really) and get to Pittsburgh around 10:00 or 11:00. I can't wait to see everyone. The one and only thing that could make my birthday perfect, would be if Sean was there. But since he's in San Diego and likely won't be in Pittsburgh this weekend, I'll have to settle for an awesome birthday, as opposed to perfect. I'm still looking forward to it, though. Yay. There will be lots of pictures taken for my portfolio, also. Which I'm pretty stoked about in itself. Pittsburgh is such a wonderfully photogenic city. Greatness. Expect marvelous stories upon my return and possibly some pictures (if I can actually release them to the general public). Have a wonderful weekend, guys...I know I will!!

Happier than a pig in a mud puddle!!!

2005-05-31T15:41:00.000-04:00

So, I'm lying in bed this morning, not completely awake and definitely not ready to get up yet. I'm enjoying the warmth of my blanket and the sound of birds chirping just outside my window (in Corey's really stupid tree). The phone rings. It's about 8:40 so I'm assuming it's Jess's work or possibly someone for my mom 'cause none of my friends are up that early. So, the phone rang twice (I remember crazy details early in the morning) and Momma Kuchta answers the phone in the kitchen. I try as hard as I can to eavesdrop (since I'm in the next room over) to hear which crazy person is calling so "early". All of a sudden, her voice gets a little excited and she says "Oh hi!!....Is this Sean?" Holy cheese, the way I jumped out of bed, you'd think the matress was aflame! I ran into the kitchen looking like I just rolled out of bed (because I did) and grabbed the phone. As soon as he said, "Hey girl" I knew he was back Stateside because his voice was so clear! He was calling from San Fransisco. He's home!!! He flew from Hawaii to San Fran to see some buddies and tonight he's heading back to Camp P. Then at the end of June he's going to be in the Erie/Pittsburgh area...as will I!! He couldn't talk for long because I'm pretty sure he wasn't on his cell phone and he was waiting for a taxi. He just wanted to let me know he's back. At the end of our conversation, he instructed me to tell everyone he missed them. I jokingly said, "Well, yeah, thanks..but what about me?" To which he replied, "Oh, yeah, you know. You too." I have the most thoughtful boyfriend ever. I knew what he meant though. So, my Sean is home. He's safe. And now I'm even more anxious to see him. Knowing that he's so close (well, not so close, but it's definitely closer than Baghdad, right?) and I still have to wait to see him is driving me crazy. The end of June/beginning of July is going to be the greatest time in history ever, I think. It's kind of weird because last night we were watching this show on TLC called "Operation Homecoming". It showed a bunch of troops coming home and reuniting with their families and whatnot. Needless to say, my parents and I were in tears for the whole 2 hours it was on. Afterwards, I said to my mom "If I don't hear from Sean soon, I might go crazy". So, he saved my sanity this morning (or what little sanity I have left, anyways). So you can all thank him for that.
Anyways, I just wanted to share my excitement with everyone who cares enough to read this. My Sean's home, he's safe and I'm so happy.

Gang Violence Claims Another Life

2005-05-30T14:51:00.000-04:00

"Early this morning, at an unknown hour, there was a tragic incident that took place in a small subdivision in Leamington. One of the family members was brutally murdered as a result of gang violence. Melanie Kuchta woke up this morning to find that her beloved fish, Steph, had been a victim of a swim-by shooting. Steph was a beautiful young fish that had grown up in a rough neighborhood of the Wal-Mart fish center. Her life was difficult and she had been a member of the infamous Red Lobster gang. That is, until she met her long-time friend, Jo. Jo was a quiet but respected goldfish from a better part of the fish center. The two met by accident one day and had been friends since. According to reports, after loosing her best friend this morning, Jo couldn’t handle the loneliness and died a few hours later of a broken heart.
Their roommate, Il Poisson, had this to say: “At first, when Mel brought those two into the room, I was a little jealous and upset, knowing that Mel was more likely to pay attention to the new kids and forget all about me. But as I got to know them a little better, I came to love them like sisters. I only wish we had more time together. It truly is a great loss. They will both be missed.”
The funeral is set for later on this morning and it will be a closed service with only a few family members in attendance. "

Guys, I'm so sorry, but I was tired. Anyways...rest in peace my precious fishies. Steph, Jo...thanks, they were amazing fish while they lasted. I feel awful. They definitely didn't deserve this.

Birthday Countdown

2005-05-26T08:23:00.000-04:00

T-minus 10 days until my birthday!!!!
My birthday's coming up so soon. And who can guess what Mel's doing for her birthday?! The winner gets a dollar. Okay, not really. I'm going to Pittsburgh. Are we surprised? Probably not.
Actually, my mom and I just happen to be going down that weekend to help out with my Pap (since two of his children who live within 5 minutes from him don't think they need to help out because they have "better things to do"). Anyways, we're going down in a couple of weeks and it just so happens that we'll be there for my birthday. So, of course, we're going to do something to celebrate. Just what exactly we'll be doing, I have no clue. But it'll be something fun and Pittsburgh-like. What that means, I have no clue.
Anyways, are we actually really shocked that this is what I'm doing? I mean, seriously? Pittsburgh. So, Momma Kuchta's taking me birthday shopping today!! Yeah!!! It's been a tradition since I turned 18, I think. She takes me out and buys me my summer wardrobe (in part) and that's the birthday present. Shopping with Mommy!!! Yay! So, you all have a great day...I'm going to spend my parents' money! Woo-hoooo!!!!

Wisdom doesn't automatically come with old age. Nothing does - except wrinkles. It's true, some wines improve with age. But only if the grapes were good in the first place." - Abigail van Buren

Three cheers for a good mood

2005-05-24T23:07:00.000-04:00

Yay. I don't really know what else to say except for "yay". I have been in the strangest mood ever lately...I think they call it a "good mood"...whoever "they" are. I do not know them. Anyways, I think it has something to do with the fact that I will be getting a phone call from Sean very soon. I'm pretty stoked about that. And maybe the fact that he's going to be home really, really soon and I'll get to see his really cute face before I know it and give him a huuuuuuuuge hug!!! Or maybe it has to do with the fact that my birthday's coming up so soon. Or possibly that Steph's home. Maybe because it's summertime. Or, it could be a combination of all of the above...which I think is the likely option.
Anyways, the e-mails between Sean and I have been a little more consistant lately. Now that he's doing the "liberty" thing. Time for his R&R (yeah for that!). We've been making our plans for the Fourth of July. Of course, nothing will be set in stone until he's back on solid ground and we can actually talk through these plans, but it's looking promising. If things go the way I'm hoping we'll actually watch the fireworks together this year instead of me hearing him say "wow, did you see that?" over the phone (and, just so you know, I didn't see it because Amy's a horrible driver and we always got stuck behind some huge building just as the good fireworks went off). Anyways, fireworks, a night of celebrating downtown. It's going to be very awesome, I think. Very awesome, indeed.
Now, to an event that's a little closer to where we are. MY BIRTHDAY!!!! It's in only 11 days!!! Can you believe it?!? Because I definitely can't. I will be 22 years old!!! Holy cheese...that's insane. I can't believe how old I am. Wasn't I just going to Jr. High Convention and all that stuff yesterday? Oops...guess not!!
Anyways, just thought I'd give this a little updateroo...sort of. I just wanted to write about how I'm feeling right now at this very second. There's so much more that I could have written, but we're going to leave the bad and aggravating things in the past...which is exactly where they belong!! Soooo...I'm off to bed. Yay for excitement...yay for boyfriends coming home from war....yay for birthdays!! Have a great night kiddos!! Mellie-poo has to work in the morning so she needs her shut eye. Yea yea!! Adios!!

Yippeee!!

2005-05-15T22:14:00.000-04:00

Aw! Sean makes me so happy so much in so many ways!!! He e-mailed today. They're just leaving Australia. They're next stop is Pearl Harbour and he's flying out of Hawaii early (as opposed to taking the 6-day trip on ship with everyone else). He'll be in San Diego for a couple of weeks and then he's heading to Erie at the end of June! The end of June!!!! He'll be home so soon I can't even believe it. He asked if we could meet up in Pittsburgh for the Fourth of July...um...obviously! Sometimes I wonder about that kid!! Like I'd miss that, right?! Anyways...I can not wait!!! I haven't been this excited in a while! This is just the perfect ending to the perfect day. The District Manager was down today and she seems pretty impressed with my progress. She's loving it, I'm loving. I am now, officially, a key-holder. I have my own key to the studio. Lucky Mel. Now I feel like I matter! I got complimented by 2 mothers today because of my "outstanding work" and "incredible patience" with their children...which was super nice to hear. And then I get an e-mail from Sean just before bed. Lucky girl!!! Loves it!!! And to make all of that even better, Sean signs his e-mail as follows "with Love, Sean". Okay, maybe that's just me being a crazy-in-love girl, but that made my heart jump a little and the butterflies in tummy-land went into overdrive. I can't wait to see that bugger again!! Big hugs, I tell ya. Big hugs. Yes.
In other news...another exciting thing to share: My birthday is in 21 days!! In exactly 3 weeks...Melba Toast will be 22!!!! Whoop whoop!!!!! I love birthdays. Sure, I'm getting old, but as I pointed out so nicely to Sean, at least I'm not turning 27!! If I start feeling old-ish, I can just make fun of him 'cause he'll always be older.
Also, I just found out yesterday that my good friend Amanda is pregnant. I love babieeeeees!!!!! I told her I'm going to spoil the kid rotten. It's definitely getting a mini #7 Pittsburgh Steelers jersey...whether it's a boy or girl, Mel don't care. It will wear the jersey! We're going baby shopping in a couple of weeks. I can't wait. I love baby stuff. I want a baby! Okay....we'll stop it there. I'm getting way ahead of myself. There's a few things I'm missing in the whole baby scenario....a husband being one of them.
So, anyways...I'm off. I have to feed El Poisson and then I'm off to bed. I'm old, therefore I get tired earlier than most. Good night, kidd-o's!!!

"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf." - George Orwell

Bye-bye Miss American Pie

2005-05-05T10:34:00.000-04:00

The following is only my opinion. I am only stating how I feel so there is no need for anyone to get their panties in a bunch (although I can already foresee some of that happening). You're allowed to leave your opinions when you comment, but if you're bitchy, ignorant, apathetic, disrespectful and/or rude, your comments will be ignored and quite possibly made fun of for a little while. Don't be an ass. And no mud-slinging, name calling or child-like behavior ("I'm better than you because..."). We'll leave that to the politicians. Let's be civil.

Why I prefer my melting pot to your tossed salad....

Now, there is one thing that truly makes me an American. When you first try to think about that "one thing" you might think it's because I was born to American father. Technically, yeah, that's a given. You might also think that it's because all of my legal papers (birth certificate, passport, citizenship) say that I'm American. While they do say this, that's not the reason that I'm an American. I'm American because that's what's in my heart. I love the country that I pledge allegiance to very much. I love what she stands for. I love her history and the future she has. I also love the freedoms and opportunities that she offers. I love her democracy and her justice. I love her culture. You could almost say that my blood runs red, white and blue. When I see The Star-Spangled Banner blowing gently in the breeze, I get a little teary-eyed. When I hear my national anthem being played, I get a little choked up. I do pledge my allegiance "to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands" because I love that republic. When I see a soldier, my heart overflows with unsurpassable amounts of gratitude because he (or she) has answered the call and is willing to lay his/her life down for the very country that I love so much.
I believe that each country is unique in its own sense. Every country's culture is different in one way or another. In Germany, they wear lederhosen, drink beer, drive nice cars, and play in the mountains. That is what makes Germany different from America. In America, we eat fast-food, we work hard and we play hard, we believe in "one nation under God", we fight for what we believe is right with unmatched fervor. Americans do not look the same. We are different colors, different shapes and different sizes. We each have a different heritage, but our hearts and cultures are the same - American.
The reason behind this blog is a simple incident. Something that may have been otherwise overlooked. I can certainly understand why so many Canadians are proud to call their country a "tossed salad". It's understandable because when leaving the country of your forefathers, it's a little scary to start all over again. But there are some downfalls to it. It was pointed out to me that a new Muslim temple opened up in Leamington (this is by no means a blast against Muslims). In some Middle Eastern cultures, women are considered second-rate citizens. They are not permitted to eat at the same table as men or even at the same time. They are forced to walk behind their husbands, fathers or brothers like little puppies. In North America, women pride themselves on their independence and on how far we've come. We are CEOs of major corporations, we hold the same positions as men. We are just as successful (if not a little more) than some men. We are no longer required to wear the title of "Susie Homemaker" and stay home to raise the children while Mr. Perfect brings home the bacon. We are given the freedom to go to work and support our families, if we so desire. We get upset when we see news clips of women in Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries being forced to cover themselves from head to toe with no flesh showing whatsoever. We get angry when a woman is shot in front of thousands for having an extramarital affair while her husband gets patted on the back for doing the same. So, why then, do we allow a temple in Leamington to put a nice sign on their front window stating that women must enter through the back door? Instead of progressing, it seems to me that we are going back in time. It reminds me of what Martin Luther King, Jr. fought so hard against. Segregation. Do we stand for it because we live in a "tossed salad" society and it's their right to bring their culture to this country? Do we stand for the boy who is allowed to bring a knife to school in his turban because it is a "religious right"? Do we stand for the RCMP officer who is constantly out of uniform because he demands to wear a head dress instead of the standard hat? You may stand for it, but I believe it's unacceptable. That may well just be the American in me, though. How can one be proud of the "Canadian culture" when there really is no Canadian culture to be proud of? There is the Italian culture, the German culture, the French culture, the Iranian culture, the Russian culture.
Again, this is merely my opinion. You don't have to agree with it. You don't have to accept it. I'm just stating an opinion. I'm not trying to offend anyone or be rude. I'm just saying....

If only life were this easy....

2005-04-25T21:24:00.000-04:00

BOYFRIEND APPLICATION

The Basics
Name:
Gender:
Age:
Birthday:
Marital Status:
Physical Attributes
Height:
Weight:
Build:
Hair Color:
Eye Color:
Teeth (please check all that apply):
( ) white ( ) yellow ( ) brownish ( ) gold
( ) straight ( ) crooked
( ) non-existant
Finish the following statement
In my spare time, I like to.....

List the first thing that comes into your mind when you hear the following words:
@ Work
@ School
@ Friends
@ Alcohol
@ Church
@ Family
@ Love
@ Children
@ Marriage

Please answer the following questions honestly.
1) How many serious relationships have you had in the past?
2) What was your longest lasting relationship and why did it end?
3) What are the three top qualities you look for in a mate?
4) What are the three top qualities you have to offer a mate?
5) Have you ever dumped someone because you were "bored" with the relationship?
6) Have you ever dumped someone because you weren't "sure" of your feelings?

Please sign and date below. Attach a picture. Thank you.

Signature:_______________________________________________________ Date:_____________________

*Note: If you are not contacted in a week, please be advised that another applicant is being pursued. We apologize for any heartbreak this may have caused and we wish you luck in any future endeavors. We are not responsible for any broken hearts or bitter feelings or any property or physical damage caused by aforementioned broken heart or bitter feelings.

No habla espanol...or something like that.

2005-04-24T13:58:00.000-04:00

Okay, we're gonna start this off by saying.....Sean's coming home in about 2 months and I'm soooo happy about that. Yay for homecomings!!
Now, let's move on. I worked this morning. I would rather not work on Sunday mornings, but we do what we must, right? Right. Well, my last appointment today was a family of migrant workers for Mexico. I'm all for these people coming up to Canada to make a living and whatnot. Yay for them and stuff. But the issue is...if you're coming to get a job and reside in Canada...please...I implore you....learn our language!! Do you know how hard it is to get a 3-year-old Mexican girl (who is so adorable) to smile when she's petrified and doesn't speak a word of English? Or how about trying to do a sales session when the only person with semi-decent English skills is a 13-year-old girl and the adults are looking at me like, "Whaaa...?" It's the farthest thing from fun ever!!! Grrr.....
Well, today is German-quality-time-day! Get to chill with the Oma and Opameister. Good times. Whoop whoop!!
So, that's all I've got for now. It's lunch time and my tummy says "feeeeeed meeee!!!!". Have a great Sunday kiddies!!!

Tin soldiers and Nixon coming,We're finally on our own.
This summer I hear the drumming,
Four dead in Ohio.

Gotta get down to it
Soldiers are cutting us down
Should have been done long ago.
What if you knew her
And found her dead on the ground
How can you run when you know?
- Neil Young "Ohio"

/\ that's my longest quote in the history of my blog

A fun little game for those boring Thursday mornings....

2005-04-21T08:41:00.000-04:00

So, if you go to this website (http://www.thesurrealist.co.uk/slogan.cgi) and type in your name as the keyword, it "sloganizes" your name. I've done it about a million times and I've got crazy slogans ranging from "Choosy moms choose Mel" to "Smart. Beautiful. Melanie." (I'd say that one pretty much hits the nail on the head!) It's pretty fun for when you're overly bored. And that's exactly what I am right now. I woke up super early this morning against my own will (I loathe cats) although I was hoping to sleep in since I'm not working today. So I found myself sloganizing my name. And Sean's name. He got "How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Sean?" That's just dirrrrrty!!! Amy got "When it absolutely, positively has to be Amy overnight." Interesting. Very interesting.
Anyways, if you're bored and you have a few minutes, check this out. It can get pretty funny. Share your slogans with me...I'd love to know what they are!

One more thing....

2005-04-19T13:30:00.000-04:00

My second post in a matter of minutes. It's official: I'm a geek! But I forgot I wanted to share a story with you all. It was time to change Physh's water today and clean his bowl and stones and such. So, I took everything I needed into the washroom across the hall. I filled a little Tupperware container with fresh water so he could hang out in something clean while I took care of his old water. Well, I went to scoop him out of his bowl to transfer him, and the little bugger managed to flop his way out of the net!!! He ended up on the counter and (since I'm girly like this) I didn't want to pick him up with my fingers 'cause that's gross. So I took the net and managed to push him into the sink (which had some water sitting in it so the stones could soak) and then transfer him to the Tupperware container. Crazy thing. He was flopping on the counter and I felt so bad for him. He was getting all cranky and started gasping for air. He was yelling at me too. He's all, "It's so obvious you're of Polish descent. You're an idiot! I can't breathe! C'mon, put me back in my bowl." He then proceeded to swear at me. Lucky for him I think he's pretty and he matches my room so well otherwise he would have been in porcelain heaven. I was tempted to wash his mouth out with soap but then remembered one of my childhood lessons: Fish and soap don't mix. So, aside from the fact that I almost murdered Physh, all went well. His water's clean. The bowl's clean. The stone's are clean. And he's back to being a happy little bugger. Oh, and he did apologize for swearing at me so I forgave him. How can I stay mad at that cute little face, after all?

And the coveted Papal award goes to.....

2005-04-19T13:21:00.000-04:00

Okay, I definitely don't understand the Catholic church at all and I reeeally don't understand most of their doctrines, but you have to give those people credit. When they're happy, they're happy. My dad and I were watching today as they announced the new Pope and those people were freakin' out! So, congratulations to all you Catholics out there. I bet you're pretty stoked about this deal. And, I'd just like to point out that it's now safe to say that I'm not the only good thing that's come out of Germany. The new Pope's a German cat. He used to go by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (he even looks German...sad that I can look at someone and say, "Yep. Definitely a Germansky"). He will now be going by Pope Benedict XVI. I think it's pretty rad that the guy in charge gets to pick his own name, but it's kind of a bummer that it's gotta be a Catholic name. If I were elected Pope, I'd want to have some crazy name. Like Pope Curious George or Pope Spongebob. But I guess that might offend some Catholics. So, anways, that's all I've got. I wish I could share in the excitement of these Catholics who are going crazy with excitement in Rome, but this really means nothing to me. Other than the fact that he's from mein heimatland, I'm not really as thrilled. I'm happy with my little Pentecostal beliefs and doctrines. Go Jesus! Just thought since this might be the biggest thing in the news over the next couple of days, I'd share my 2 cents on the matter...not that my 2 cents really mean anything, but whatever.

I Don't Understand Something....

2005-04-18T12:09:00.000-04:00

I went out with a friend of mine tonight. Did the Leamington drive-around, headed to Kingsville and did the KTown drive-around (which is far more boring...which isn't saying much) and we were discussing life, love and other phenomenons. She's been dating this guy from the States - what is it with American men? - for a while, but recently she's been behaving "badly". I know of so many other girls (and quite a few guys...*ahem*..) who've been cheating on their partners like mad lately and I'm so confused by it. Like, really, really confused. I don't understand this interesting little thing. I could never in my life imagine cheating on Sean. Never. It's such a sad reality that people do this. Folks go around talking about how much they "love" their significant (or, in some cases, insignificant) other but then they go ahead and sneak around behind that person's back. I can't comprehend it, really. Love is such a huge thing and when you find someone so super amazing, why would you want to jeopardize your relationship? Makes little to no sense whatsoever. What freaks me out is hearing all of these stories about military wives/girlfriends who go around whoring it up while their husbands/boyfriends are on deployment! It's ludicrous. Sheer madness, I'd say. I can't even bring myself to imagine what would drive a person to do this. During Sean's deployment, I could only think of his safety and I've been anxious for his return like a crazy person! I'd go out with my friends, and by the end of the night, I'd be a little bit sad because there I was have a grand time and I'd think "Well, gee, Sean's off in Kuwait/Baghdad/wherever dodging bullets..." A friend of mine in the Canadian Army Reserves went down to Fort Hood, Texas for some training (lucky bugger...) and he said that he was amazed at all the women who were walking around with visible tan lines from their wedding rings. As soon as Sgt. Husband leaves, they pull that 14K sucker off the finger and look for a willing replacement for the six months or year or however long that they're gone. That is so beyond me. Why do people cheat? I definitely don't understand the logic behind it. I don't think there is any logic behind it, actually. It's strange. I hate cheating. I'm lucky, I believe, because Sean shares that sentiment. Cheating is definitely out of the question and highly frowned upon in our relationship. Huge no-no. It's cause for break-up with no questions asked on either end. I don't know. I'm just rambling, but I don't get it....
So, anyways..... my Oma and Opa are coming from Germany on Wednesday. Goodie gumdrops. I'm so excited.... No...really..... I am..... Yay for Germans. I'm gonna get the big lecture on learning German and such. My defense to that is this: We're in North America. We speak English in these parts. When I go to Germany and I don't speak the language so well, then you can be all disappointed with my sorry behind, otherwise, learn my language. When in Rome, right? Also, I'll get the ten thousand questions about Sean and the "Why are you dating him?" lines and crud like that. My Oma asked me that once:
"Are you still with that man in the Military?"
"Yes, Oma. His name is Sean."
"How much longer will he be in the Military?"
"Until he's in his 40s, Oma."
"Oh, really? That long?"
"Yes, Oma. That long."
"Oooh..." (she sounded disappointed)
I'm sorry, I love the kid and I won't be explaining the choice to be with him to anyone. Love does that to ya, I guess. I just hate that certain people can't be happy for me because of his profession of choice or nationality or whatever ridiculous reason they have. Be happy for me because I'm happy and I've finally found a decent person to give my love to. Please. That's all I ask of you. Thanks.
Aaaaanyways......Now I'm seriously just rambling. I'm sure everyone's so interested in this post, too. I'm just really tired. And confused about cheating. Now I'm off to bed. It's late. I'm sleepy. And my head's pounding. It feels like my brain's going to pop out of the back of my head. It hurts. Tyyyylenoooollll...where are you? Have a good night, kiddos!!

"I'm convinced that wondering 'what if?' is the worst thing there is"

So in love....

2005-04-14T19:49:00.000-04:00

So, I thought I was pretty darn lucky to get all these e-mails from Sean and pictures and I even got to have a "conversation" with him via e-mail. Lucky, lucky girl. Well, today beat it all!!! So, my mom and I had just returned from grocery shopping (always a fun deal when Zehr's is bigger than Texas and you get lost in the bread aisle) and we were in the process of putting everything away and starting dinner when the phone rings. My mom answered. "Hello?" She said. A few seconds later, a huge smile breaks on her face. "Why, yes, Sean. She's standing right here." SEAN CALLED TODAY!!! I was so happy! My heart's still beating so fast. It was insane. We talked for a while about so much. Some things made me almost cry (war stories that I can't repeat because tears will definitely follow) and some things made me laugh while others made the butterflies in my stomach do flip-flops!!! It was great! I'm so happy now. We talked about so much and it's made me even more anxious for him to come home. Hearing him say that he can't wait to see me and how good it was to talk to me was such an amazing thrill!!! My Sean is coming home....to me!!! I can't wait.
So, there still in the Gulf right now, but soon they're heading out to Australia (they're going all over Australia and I almost hate him for rubbing it in...almost), then the Phillipines, Guam, Hawaii...all the places I'd rather be right now. Anyways, I asked him to bring me back a seashell from Australia and he was shocked. "What? A seashell? That's it?" I like simple things, I can't help it. So, if he remembers, he's going to pick out a seashell for me from Australia. Lucky girl I am. I'm so happy. When he gets back, we're hanging out together in Pittsburgh for a few days (over the 4th of July weekend...how appropriate!), then he's likely coming here for a little bit and he'll be heading to some other places to visit a few friends. But then in August, I'm going down there, we've decided. Go for a few rides on the Harley (I'm already salivating....I love Harley's...just don't tell my dad - He's more a Triumph or Yamaha kinda guy), hit a few bars...maybe a few more tattoos (in places that can be covered so I don't get kicked out before I'm ready). It'll be a grand old time. Sitting with my favorite man on the beaches sipping a few pina coladas.....aaaahh...the life! I love that boy. Really very much. :) He's gotta be my favorite person ever. So much love...and (in case you missed it) he called today!! He'll be calling back in a few days which excites me. We had to say good-bye after a little while 'cause some other guys wanted to use the phone but we both had a rough time saying bye to each other :(. Awe, sadness. But he'll be home soon....BONUS!
Okay, now I'm rambling...I had to share the excitement too....and....JO> maybe he'll be here around your birthday!!! Pittsburgh until July 5 (the big day) and then possibly here a few days later!!! You can meet him for your birthday!!!
Okay, that's seriously all now. Have a phenomenal evening boys and/or girls.

"Honk if you love Britney Spears - Now run your car into the nearest tree or telephone pole"

I got a pet fish!!!

2005-04-12T19:35:00.000-04:00

I got a fish today. I hope I can keep him alive for a while because he's fun and he matches my room so well. I just had to share 'cause he's cute. He's a blue beta fish...they're so beautiful! But this one's especially beautiful! Guess what I named him?! PHYSH!!! I'm so creative!!

Someone spilled a margarite on my walls....

2005-04-12T10:50:00.000-04:00

So, I painted my room on Saturday. It's a very noticeable difference. Very. My dad put a shelf up for me yesterday and kept shaking his head and saying "Do you know that you're retarded?" Yeah, I'm pretty sure I know that. It's very bright. But I love it sooo much! The walls are called "celery stalk" green and the trim is cayman blue. It seriously looks like the inside of a margarita. I want to drink my walls!!! It's awesome. So, Sunday night I didn't sleep in my room because I got a headache from the leftover paint fumes. Last night, however, I did sleep in my room and I almost went into cardiac arrest when I opened my eyes this morning because I had forgotten about my painting adventure! Those colors definitely help me with my waking up process. It rocks!! So, Saturday morning as I was taking everything off my walls so I could begin painting, Momma Kuchta watched as I removed Old Glory and folded her neatly to tuck away until I could put her up again. Mom said something about not being able to hang the flag again after my room was painted because the red and dark blue wouldn't look good with my choice of green. I shot her a dirty look and said, "Dad would kick you if he heard you say that". Sure, I'm all about things matching and looking dandy in my 'new' room, but Old Glory's the exception. I don't care if my walls would have been pink...that flag will hang in my room no matter what. I rolled my eyes. She's German, she wouldn't understand. Or would she?
So, anyways. Momma Kuchta made stuffed peppers for dinner last night. I ate the stuffing. Cooked peppers do not appeal to me. Unless on a Domino's pizza...then I like them. Otherwise, I like my peppers raw. Thanks. Jess's boyfriend, Jason, joined us for dinner. My mom started telling him a story and do you know what she called him? She called Jason "Sean". Sean is a far cry from Jason. Seems like I'm not the only one looking forward to his homecoming. 'The Seagull' (aka: my dad...Sean knows him by no other name) and Mom can't wait to see him, either. And Natalie too! We're all pretty stoked to see him. Yay for Sean. Yay for my family loving Sean. It's definitely good stuff.
Do you know what really excites me? Jo's coming home soon. And then Steph comes home a little bit later. I can't wait!!! This excites me a lot. Jo and Steph. Steph and Jo. Yahoooooo! I will give them both rather large hugs when I see them, I do believe.
Anyways, that's all for me today. I have to go finish cleaning up my room (and the dining room...and the hallway....). Then Momma Kuchta's coming to pick me up so I can help her out at the church. Lucky me. You kidd-o's have a wonderful day!!

"In prosperity our friends know us; in adversity we know our friends." - John Churton Collins

He Loves Me!!

2005-04-11T10:58:00.000-04:00

Well, I finally got an e-mail from Sean and let me tell you, I don't think anything can put me in a bad mood now. Not only did I get an e-mail, but I got several pictures, too. He sent me one of him all decked out in uniform....ouch. That broke the deal. My heart is his. Very, very nice. Anyways, they're finally out of Baghdad (that was a relief to hear). They're on their way to Australia, then Guam and Hawaii and San Diego!!! He'll be flying home to Pennsylvania for the Fourth of July and, coincidentally (or not so much), my family will be there that weekend so we'll finally get to see each other again. And he might come and spend a few days in grand, ol' Leamington with us. Which will be nice. I'm sooo excited, I can't even put it into words. Being apart for so long definitely sucks in a bad way, but then the reunion is so amazing! YAY! I love it. People think I'm crazy, but I love being a military girlfriend. "But it's so stressful," they say, "He'll be gone a lot". And? But do you know how amazing he is? That definitely makes up for the "stress". He's definitely worth it.
Aaaaanyways....he was telling me about a few of his buddies that got medivaced to Germany (I want to go back to Germany...soon!) and how they're over there enjoying themselves with that wonderful German beer. Lucky kids. Well, apart from the whole fact that they were shot and injured, they're lucky. So, I promised Sean that I'd let him come with me when I go to Germany so he could experience it for himself. I'm so nice..... :) I don't know if this is selfish or harsh, but reading that, all I could think was "Thank God it wasn't Sean being medivaced out to Landstuhl". My boy is safe and sound and heading for a time of rest and relaxation in Australia (which I sort of hate him for.....I want to go to Australia....)
Anyways, I thought I'd share my excitement and relief that Sean's safe and heading home! When he was first deployed back in December, I was so worried and scared for his safety, but a [smart] friend of mine said that God wouldn't bring Sean into my life only to take him out so quickly. I was trying to hold onto that for the longest time and just trust that God was going to keep him safe. It was super hard at times because no matter how hard I tried to avoid the news, there was no getting around hearing the stories from over there. So trusting definitely wasn't easy at times, but now I know he's safe and he's on his way back and there's nothing left to worry about. So, my worrying and fear has been replaced with restless anxiety. I'm going insane waiting for the Fourth of July to roll around!! This is nuts!!! God bless my Marine!

"We have every right to dream heroic dreams. Those who say that we're in a time when there are no heroes, they just don't know where to look." - Ronald Reagan

INK!!!

2005-04-04T23:52:00.000-04:00

I got my newest tattoo on Friday and I'm soooo stoked about it. It's a sun-ish design on the inside of my left forearm - OWIE! It hurt like H-E-double hockey sticks!! Yes, sir (or ma'am). But it was so worth it. It looks so good and it's healing nicely. Yesss!! So, since this is #3, it's time for me to move out. My parents said that after the third one, I'd have to move out - no joke! They didn't give me a time limit as to when (haha...they're fault! I found a loophole!) so I guess that just means "move out before you get #4". I can deal with that. But evenso, I'm already plotting the next one, so I guess I should look for a place to stay, huh? Good think Sean thinks I'm cute...I guess I'll go be his roomie :)!!! Yay for Californ-I-A!!! Whoop whoop!!! Yes, I'm a nerd...I can't help myself at all!!!
Sooo....my mom and I went to Point Pelee today to walk around and hopefully burn our booties off. My goal was to leave the park as skinny as some of those skeezes in the Victoria's Secret catalogues. Mission not accomplished. I still look like, well, Mel. But do you know what? I'm pretty okay with Mel. Yes, she does need to get into shape (winter does that to me. No energy, no motication...) but as far as those skinny prostitues go (it makes me feel better to put them down, leave me alone) I figure they're faker than a bowl of Kraft Dinner and no one could ever look like that in real life. I just want to walk up to one of them and say "It's called a hamburger, try one. Splurge, you fool! There's more to life than lettuce!" But that would be rude. And I like to consider myself a polite and well brought up young lady......yeah............
Speaking of hamburgers, we went out to dinner the other night (a few associates and myself, and by "associates", I do mean "friends") and I ordered veal. One of the members in our party scolded me and asked "How can you eat baby cow?" I laughed because I thought it was a joke. My bad - it wasn't. I said, "Honey, I'll either eat it now or in a little while at Wendy's when it's all grown up. Get over it." Vegetarians bother me (sorry if you are one). For goodness sake, you need your protein so eat it already!!! Yay for meat. Mmm....
You know what else bothers me? Yesterday, my sister had some friends over and the conversation drifted towards military topics because the topic of Sean was brought up (gee, I wonder who started that conversation?). Someone asked if Sean was with the United States Marine Corps and my dad said "What other Marines are there?" In retrospect, what happened next makes me laugh. Jess told my dad to stop because he was becoming offensive. Yes, I sometimes joke (mostly just with my friend in the Canadian Army Reserves) about how the US Military is superior to the Canadian (please don't post comments arguing this, I'm not trying to offend, I'm just telling a story, leave it alone) and Jess thought that this is what my dad was doing. Now, to my knowledge, I'm pretty sure (about 99% sure) that Canada does not have a Marine Corps. I said, "Jess, how would that statement offend people?" She replied, "Because some Canadians are proud of their Armed Forces". So I state, "That's good. But if they're really proud of their Forces, then they'd know there's no Canadian Marine Corps and therefore would not take offense to Dad's statement". What happened next? She left. I love winning!!!
Anways...I'm starting to sound like Dan with all my ranting and raving :)! We'll leave that up to him, I guess.
Last night my marvelous friend Ryan came over. He's down from Kitchener for a whole MONTH (and a tiny bit)!!! Yay for that!! It's fun times. We watched an old Marx Brothers movie with my dad (from the 1930s). We both had a headache afterwards. The movies are side-slittingly hilarious but some parts are too confusing. So we went for a walk afterwards to clear our heads. Maya tagged along. I got made fun of for talking to my dog (I mean, it was a one-sided conversation...I think people who put sweaters on their dogs are weird, you should hear me talk to my puppy!) and because I'm short. That was fun. So I made a mental note to beat Ryan up next time I see him...if I can reach since I am so short! Those Mercers....I tell ya. No mercy at all from any of 'em!
Alllllsooooo.....Guess what Saturday is? April 9. Very good...but what else? It's our "Welcome Back, Spring" picnic and I can't wait!!! I don't know where it will be I just can't wait for it to happen. It will most definitely be a phenomenal time. I love spring and the weather's finally becoming spring-ish. Thank the Lord!!!
Wellll.....I think that's all for now. I'm in quite a mood tonight but I'm so exhausted. I think I'll be sleeping like a baby tonight. That's a good thing. I hope all you folks have a wonderful evening and a good tomorrow. Au revoir, mes amies.

"Ignorance is the night of the mind; but a night without moon and star." - Confucius
"Never getting help doesn't make you brave" - Straylight Run

*2 quotes tonight...aren't you kiddies lucky?!?!

How to Make me!!!

2005-04-03T14:12:00.000-04:00

How to make a melba_toast

Ingredients:
3 parts success
1 part courage
3 parts instinct

Method:
Combine in a tall glass half filled with crushed ice. Top it off with a sprinkle of curiosity and enjoy!

Boo for Cancer

2005-03-31T10:30:00.000-05:00

So, by request of my wonderful aunt, I'm selling daffodils at Wal-Mart today to support the Cancer Society. Yay! I think you should support the Cancer Society, too. So come on out to Wal-Mart and buy some daffodils...and even if you don't like daffodils, just give us your money anyways. Let's help kill cancer. And you'd better believe that if I see you wandering around Wal-Mart and I know you and you just walk past Ang and me at the daffodil table, I will chase you down, tackle you and sell you a daffodil. You can't hide from me. We hate cancer and we want to beat it. Soooo....come buy a daffodil...or just give us your money. Whatever.

I'm Stuck....

2005-03-29T14:45:00.000-05:00

Okay, so Sean's birthday is 5 months away and I'm stressed out already. It's insane, really. I have no clue what to get him. I want to get him something really, really awesome but I have no ideas. I'm stuck. What do you get an old man (okay, he's not really old. He'll be 27, but still) for his birthday? I'm so stuck. Any boys out there who can help me? I've got 5 months to come up with something great, so I guess there's no rush, or there shouldn't be anyways. My mom suggested a watch but he bought a new watch a while ago on one of his deployments...a nice platinum watch - like I'm gonna try to replace that? Puh-leeeze! Then someone suggested I get him something nice for his car...He's getting a brand new BMW. Do you realize how much something nice for his car would cost me? Unless I get him an air freshener...and nothing says, "Happy birthday, I love you a lot" quite like the scent of pine, right? I got a few X-rated suggestions from people I used to work with, but I really doubt I'll be going for any of those.... I know what I'm doing for his birthday (cooking him dinner without turning his apartment building into a pile of ash - I hope - and probably throwing him a party with a little help from his friends). But as far as getting him something, I'm so stuck. When I was dating Rob, I got him a sweater. I'm sure a sweater would be really useful in California, too..... Maybe cologne? Boys, what do you think? Is that a good gift or does it imply: "You really reek. Please apply this immediately"? See then I had this other idea. He likes his whiskey, right? So, what if I get him a really nice flask, get something engraved on it and fill it with our friend Jack Daniel's? But then I said to myself, "Hey, Mel...Are you trying to encourage him to become an alcoholic?" What the heck do I do? I'm so stuck. Help me, please! I need suggestions. I should call his mom.... Ah! Leave a comment, give me a suggestion. I need help. I might be a great girlfriend in some areas, but as far as gift-giving goes, I suck...large!!

"Happy birthday, Mr. President...."

My Easter Weekend...

2005-03-28T08:26:00.000-05:00

The Pittsburghers were here this weekend. What an adventure that was. Eleven people in a small duplex in good, ol' Leamington. How fun..... Actually, in case you didn't catch the sarcasm, it was pretty frightening. They got here Friday and we were just lazy all day. We just hung out at the house (which was scary). Jess's boyfriend came over that night and my Uncle Ed entertained us. He's hilaaaarious! So then Saturday I worked and then Amy and I went back to the studio afterwards to get our pictures done - it was so much fun!! After pictures, we headed out to Moxie's with a few people for dinner and were served by Jeff - the greatest waiter ever! If you ever go to Moxie's and get him, you'll know why. He's so nice! After that, we went to Dante's and I almost knocked someone out. Towards the end of the night, I had this loser guy all over me and saying something to me. I didn't pay attention to what he was saying, I was too busy trying to get away from him. So Brian pulled the guys arm off of me and pushed me off the dancefloor. It was definitely time to leave then. He made me angry. Poop. I was not very impressed. I was about to pull out the "My boyfriend's a US Marine" line (that usually scares people away) but Brian helped me out before I got to say it. Funny how people are intimidated by those Marines......
Anyways, Sunday was church day. I was teaching 2's and 3's for my mom so I missed the service. I heard it was pretty good. Pastor Brian got a new Fender. Nice blue, or so I hear. I would have loved to hear him play, but I was busy wiping snot from children's noses. Yessss! After church there was the wonderful Easter meal and more laughing courtesy of Uncle Ed. And then.... Johanna came over!! She came and played Risk with my dad. For two days, the poor man was trying to find someone to play with him, but no one was willing. Then Jo came and she played with him and since she said yes, so did a few others. My dad was soo happy!
So, they just left this morning at 8 and it's so wonderful to have a quiet house again! :) But I do miss them.... They're my family and no matter how CRAZY they are, I love 'em. So I'm being very brave and quite adventurous and I'm heading down to Pittsburgh in a few weeks again for a little visit and to see a show (The Takeover UK). I can't wait. Should be fun times. Aaaannd....I'm getting my 3rd (not final) tattoo while I'm there. They're so much cheaper in the States than Canada so that's where I'll be getting all future ink. I'm getting 3 small crosses tattooed on my wrist should hurt like a *motha shut-yo-mouth*, but that's what I'm hoping for! I love ink. Yes. When I get it done, I'll post a picture of it on here as soon as Jo teaches me how to do so.....
So, I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend also.

"Nonsense is pure wisdom of someone who knows nothing." - unknown

I'm Jonesin' for a Burrito....

2005-03-24T09:54:00.000-05:00

Sooo...I figure it's time for an update. How do you write an update, though, when there's nothing that's really new? My life is too ridiculously boring...I can not believe it. I need some adventure, a little drama (not the kind of drama that Jess and Natalie deal with, mind you...the fun kind...the kind that doesn't involve your boyfriend pissing you off). Oh well, only 3 more months until my life becomes a little more exciting - that's when my Sean gets home! Yay for that. If you've never seen this handsome, handsome Marine, go to MySpace (the link's over there>) and go to "View Other Pics" (or something like that) and you will see my hero. I'm so proud of him. What a wonderful man (I feel weird saying "man", but I can't say "boy" because he's so old....sort of).
I'm a little disturbed, too. We went out for St. Patrick's Day and they played that stupid "Milkshake" song (whoever sings it, I don't know...it's just annoying). And my wonderful friend Brian just informed me as to what a "milkshake" is....it's definitely not what I thought. I was highly disturbed. Hm. Interesting terms people are using these days....
Aaaanyways, Amy and her family are coming up for Easter weekend. They'll arrive tomorrow and I'm not exactly sure when they're leaving. It should be interesting. The entire family's coming....11 people in our small house - oh bliss! The itinerary is as follows: Friday's a lazy day. Hanging out around good, ol' L-Town (boo for tomatoes). Probably have a little visit with Pete and Dave (Beth loves those kids). Saturday I work from 1-5 (yay for picture-taking!) and then Amy and I are going back to the studio after my shift at around 6ish to have our pictures done. Part of my birthday present to her. After that, we're heading to Moxie's in Windsor for dinner (I love that place). And after that, a few of us are heading downtown for a wonderful evening of mischief (or something like that). One of "us" is Ryan Mercer who I haven't seen in ages and I'm so excited he's home now. Yeah for the Merce!
So, theeeeen, in a couple of weeks (April 8), I will be heading down to the 'Burgh for the first time since my return to Canadia. There's a concert at Mr. Small's by The Takeover UK (link's also on the side) that I'm almost dying to go to. I love this band very, very much - and I hope you like them too. Some other interesting things that will undoubtedly happen on this trip? More ink!!! Heck yes, my friend. Mel will likely be getting her 3rd (but not final) tattoo. I'm not 100% sure yet as to what I'm getting. More than likely a small cross on my wrist...or perhaps a star on my left ankle to match the one on my right. Whoooo knows. I'll probably just end up deciding the day of. Sean will be so proud...this will bring me up to 3 and we'll be tied. Who will have more tattoos? Hm...we'll see, I guess.
So, I guess that's really all. At this point in time, nothing's exciting. But in a few days/weeks/months, things are bound to pick up. I can't wait for concerts, tattoos, trips to big, beautiful cities..... It'll be fun times fo' sho'. Soo..you guys all take care. I'm off to huddle in a dark corner of the house, away from any windows and cry because of the miserable snow. Curse you, Jack Frost! Curse you! Alright...*Kuchta out*.

"We have every right to dream heroic dreams. Those who say that we're in a time when there are no heroes, they just don't know where to look" - Ronald Reagan

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!!

2005-03-17T15:10:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patty's Day everyone!!! I LOVE THIS DAY! It is, byfar, my favorite holiday out of the year! Thank you to the Irish for this wonderful day. We're heading out to Patrick O'Ryans in Windsor tonight to celebrate like the Irish do. What are you guys all doing (if anything) for this awesome day? I was talking to a friend of mine earlier and we established that the 3 most important ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day are to wear green, drink lots and get lucky. Hahaha...Well, I can't help the getting lucky part, but I think I can manage the first two points :). Have a great day guys!!

"A bird with one wing can't fly".
(An Irish saying to convince someone to have a second drink.)

Quayle-isms

2005-03-10T10:55:00.000-05:00

I live for quotes. I love quotes. If I find a good one, I have to write it down right away. I'm a quote fiend. So, when I read a whole bunch of Dan Quayle quotes online, I had to save them. They are so funny. I need to share them with you. This guy was a flippin' genius!!

*A low voter turnout is an indication of fewer people going to the polls. (for reeeal???)

*I happen to be a Republican president - ah, the vice president. (which is it, bub?)

*I understand the importance of bondage between parent and child. (ummm.....)

*I was known as the chief grave robber of my state. (good to know...)

*I was recently on a tour of Latin America,and the only regret I have was that I didn't study Latin harder in school so I could converse with those people. (yeah, too bad about that whole Latin thing.....)

*If we do not succeed, then we run the risk of failure. (that's deep...)

*It is wonderful to be here in the great state of Chicago. (Chicago state, eh?.....)

*It's a very good historical book about history. (a historical book about history! What a conception!)

*It's time for the human race to enter the solar system. (okaaaay....)

*The Holocaust was an obscene period in our nation's history. I mean in this century's history. But we all lived in this century. I didn't live in this century. (I did not understand one word of this mumbo-jumbo. What are you talking about, Danno?)

*The loss of life will be irreplaceable. (in most cases, it is....)

*Unfortunately, the people of Louisiana are not racists. (this is unfortunate?)

*When I talked to him on the phone yesterday. I called him George rather than Mr. Vice President. But, in public, it's Mr. Vice President, because that is who he is. (minus the vice part, right? You were just testing us, weren't you? Making sure we're all awake...)

...and finally...

*The American people would not want to know of any misquotes that Dan Quayle may or may not make. (You are sorely mistaken! I love the misquotes!)

Grrr....

2005-03-09T20:56:00.000-05:00

I love Swedish Berries. I just thought I'd start out with that because they are so good. Better recognize! Props to Trebor Allan. I bought a huge bag at Blockbuster and tomorrow I think I'm going to have a li'l tummy ache. Oops.... Oh well. I like 'em.
Do you know what really bothers me? When I'm trying to have a conversation with someone about something important and I have to take breaks to give them definitions of the words I use. I'm sorry, read a dictionary, then we'll finish our conversation. My best friend (Amy) has become stupified by this fiance of hers, I think. We were having a conversation about how people justify premarital sex. Personally, I don't agree with it. But, as with any situation, if we're going to have different opinions, I'd like to hear a valid reason as to why you oppose the idea. I said "It bugs me how when people talk about marriage these days, they always take sexual compatibility into consideration, I think that's ridiculous." Her response? "Yup". Then I went on to give an example and stated "The other day, Jess said "You wouldn't buy a car w/o test driving it first right?" Well, you can't really compare a car to marriage. That ideology is so ludicrous. I hate when people talk like that. Thank God Sean's willing to wait with me." I had to explain what ideology and ludicrous meant. And her response to my statemtent? "That's gay". Thank you for that educated response. Really, the power and conviction in those two words made me proud to know you..... Honestly.
Aaaaanyways...Let's get over the whole "I'm searching for someone to have intelligent and educated discussions with" ordeal and move on. Let's move on to work. I'm supposed to be out of the studio by 7:00. Not tonight, though! Oh noooo! Heaven's sake, why would we make Mel's day stress free? Let's bring in our 27 children for passport photos, then we'll tell our cousin and his 32 kids to get their citizenship photos done. Suuuuure! Works for me...It's not like I have better things to do!!! Leave me alone! I got out of the studio at 8:00. Natalie - bless her heart - waited for me. Poor girl. Then I started stressing out because I miscounted (I was too stressed) and I almost thought we were $100 short. Brian would have murdered me. Then I realized I missed a few twenties here and there. Good job, dumb dumb!
So, now I'm stressed to the max, I'm bummed because when I talk to Amy, it's like I'm speaking a language she doesn't know and Sean's in Iraq so having a decent, intellectual conversation with someone who knows what he's talking about is outta the question. Work was a killer so the arthritis is flaring like a madman. I'm not a happy camper, I tell ya!
So when I get all down and out like this I just tell myself "Think about St. Patty's Day, think about St. Patty's Day..." It works sometimes. I love St. Patrick's Day. I love the Irish (Foley = Irish, see the connection?). It works sometimes. But it's not working that great tonight. So I'm off to take a shot of Jack's (I do that for Sean's sake. Yeah...) and I'm grabbing my ice cold Rolling Rock (dad brought me my favorite Pittsburgh beverage again....YAY!), watch some tv and then it's off to bed. I will sleep until forever. Well, probably not, but it would be nice. I hope you all had a FAR better day than I have. Good night.

"I have known many
And liked not a few
I've loved only one
And this toast is to you"
-Old Irish toast

Please Don't Ban Me......

2005-03-06T12:12:00.001-05:00

You Are a Boxer Puppy

Energetic, playful and good with kids.You've also got a wild spirit that can't be trained or tamed.

What'>http://www.blogthings.com/puppyquiz/index.php">What Breed of Puppy Are You?

Please Don't Ban Me......

2005-03-06T12:12:00.000-05:00

You Are a Boxer Puppy

Energetic, playful and good with kids.You've also got a wild spirit that can't be trained or tamed.

What Breed of Puppy Are You?

Insta-smile!

2005-02-28T11:42:00.000-05:00

Oh happy day! So I worked yesterday from 10-5 and the first couple of hours were pretty freakin' miserable. I got pretty much no sleep Saturday night and I wasn't feeling good. So, my mom calls me at 12:30 when they got home from church to let me know that there was a message on our voicemail from one Sean Foley!! Yay! So Brian let me listen to the message at work. Then I got home and listened to it a few more times.... My parents went home alone last night so I watched the movie "Frailty" with Brian and then I tried to sleep. All the lights were on and I had my radio turned up. All the blinds were closed and everything was locked. That movie scared me. So, since the whole "lights and noise" thing wasn't working, I took a different - and much sappier - approach. I grabbed the phone, grabbed the most recent picture of Sean and listened to his message on speaker phone. Crazily enough, that put me to sleep. I talked to Brian this morning for a little bit (he called from work) and I told him what I did. I thought he'd laugh but he totally understood. I miss him so much and hearing his voice was so soothing. It was so good. I'm sorry I'm such a loser.... But it was so nice to hear him. He said something funny on the message so I even got to hear him laugh. I'm sorry, but since he's been gone, I've had to find joy in the small things like that.
So, I went to Casino Windsor the other night with my friend Amanda. It was so much fun! That place is so pretty...and all the lights were mezmerising! I loved it. It was a good time. I've decided that I might take Sean there when he comes for a little visit. It was awesome...only we didn't get home until like 4 and I didn't get into bed until just before 5. Let me tell ya, that was not fun.
So, that's all. I'm going to clean the kitchen now. Have a great day!!

"If you're going to San Fransisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair...."

An Update on my BOOORING Life

2005-02-21T22:49:00.000-05:00

So I went out Saturday night with some people from back in the day. It was nice. We went to a club in Windsor called Voodoo (would have rather gone somewhere else, but it wasn't up to me). It was awesome seeing old friends again. Always a good time. And tonight I went out for coffee with someone (who will remain anonymous) that I haven't talked to in ages. We used to hang out aaaallllll the time but then poop happened and we left things in a bad way. So, we reconciled and went for a cup of joe at Tim's tonight which was pretty nice. It was good to talk to this person again. Definitely. I love when bad things are made right again. Definitely a bonus, right?
Hmmm....what else? Amy called just before I went out for coffee with the aforementioned friend so I told her I couldn't talk but she'll call tomorrow. Darn straight she'll call. We've got lots to talk about. So, that'll be cool. Aaaaaaand, I'm heading down to Pittsburgh at the beginning of April to see THE TAKEOVER UK. I am in love with them and you should definitely check 'em out. They even have their own link on my blog. It's over there > (props to Jo). Anyways, I'm going to see them because I love them and I can not wait! Yaaaay!
Also, I was talking to my boss the other day (I love that little princess). And do you know what he told me? If the studio could afford it, he'd train me to be the assistant manager in a heartbeat. Only issue is, the studio doesn't have that in their budget. Pooop. So you know what that means? Time for me to acquisition more clients! Sure thing, buuuudy! Ha ha...I wish.....sheesh. No really, I wish. I would love that. I don't even care about the pay raise, just having that title would be nice enough for me! Definitely.
Ummm....I think that's all. As it clearly states in the title of this blog, my life is ludicrously boring. I can not wait until June/July because a trip to the Erie-Pittsburgh area will be in order to see my wonderful man-friend and then there's the inevitable trip to California in August for his birthday...he is such an old fart (just don't tell him I said that). And then there's birthday celebrations in June for myself with my boss and some other friends....and picnics at the beach....and bonfires at the Weber's (yeah, sorry, don't care what the Wolfer says, it's happening...). All when the warm weather finally arrives.
Oh, and if Mr. "I'm going to California for 2 days and Florida for 2 weeks" is reading this, you can probably shove it 'cause I'm a little jealous.
Have a good one kids. That's all I've got. I'm turning in for the evening. The coffee did nothing for me. Nighty-night. Peace out, homefries!

"Touched by angels, though I fall out of grace
I did it all so maybe I'd live this every day"
- My Chemical Romance, 'I Never Told You What I do For a Living'

So over it.....

2005-02-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

I'm so over this day of cupid. I hate it. Hearts everywhere and people begging others to "be mine". Shut up your face, already! It's getting very pathetic. If you love someone, you should show them 365 days out of the year, you shouldn't go out of your way just once and think "meh, I've got it covered...no worries". Bull doooody! If Sean thinks he'll be able to get away with being romantic one day out of the whooole year, he's sorely mistaken. If he brings home roses on our first February 14 together and think I'm gonna be all like, "Oh, baby! You remembered it's Valentine's Day"...I will tear him a new hole!! Oh yes. Seriously. Remember the anniversaries, my birthday, important stuff like that and you'll probably (most definitely) impress me. Remember Valentine's Day, and you'll sleep on the couch. Valentine's Day is obvious. EVERYWHERE you go you see the corny hearts and cupids and stupid "Happy Valentine's Day" signs...as if you could forget! It's not like on June 5 (and the entire month before) all the big stores have "Melanie's Birthday" decorations and Hallmark isn't putting out special "Happy Melanie's Birthday-Day" cards in June. There aren't obvious reminders other than the little Post-It notes that I WILL leave everywhere. So remembering my birthday will be more impressive than Valentine's Day. I hate today. It's officially blacked out of my calendar...literally. I took a black Sharpie to my calendar. February 14 doesn't exist in my world. I hate it THAT much. Poo on Valentine's Day and death to Cupid. I hate it. I'm going to bed. I worked all day and now I'm sleeping. I had to deal with those stupid candy hearts that my mom got (you know the ones, they say stupid things like "Love Me", "Hot Stuff", "Nice Girl"...yeah, I'm a real nice girl...whatever...) and I had to look at Natalie's stupid roses from her boyfriend. That's already more than I can handle. I'm turning in and tomorrow I had better not see any leftovers of this awful day at work or I will SCREAM!

God Bless my Marine

2005-02-12T15:59:00.000-05:00

Okay, I was doing a little surfing the other day and I stumbled across this website that has some military poetry on it. One of the poems really caught my eye. The author was unknow so I'm definitely not trying to take credit for it, I just don't know who wrote it. Kudos to whoever did, though. This poem has definitely become my prayer! I love it!

God Bless My Marine, and keep him safe for me,

Whether in air, on land or on the sea.

God Bless my Marine, and bring him safely home,

Guide my letters to him so he won't feel alone.

God Bless my Marine when I'm not by his side,

Please let him know I love him and let him feel my pride.

And when he does come home, and better days are seen;

I'll always thank you God, for blessing My Marine.

Apologies...

2005-02-04T09:17:00.000-05:00

My apologies to Jo. She had a very one-sided conversation on MSN the other day. As did I, apparently. Every single message I sent, was in turn sent back to me saying the receiver did not receive. So, if you didn't receive, why would they still call you "the receiver"? Makes no sense, frankly. Darn these machines. Poo on them. Junk. That's all they are, is junk! Okay, not really. They're pretty good to have around, but sometimes they get PMS and it's annoying. That should be allowed to happen. I'm gonna started feeding mine Midol. Definitely...I think that's a good idea...my dad? Not so much. He'll probably throw something at me if I do that followed by "You're an idiot". My dad's very honest and blunt about things. Yes sir, he is. Awesome.
So, Superbowl's on Sunday. When Sean asked me how my parents are doing, I told him they're doing fine. But my dad's a little depressed because the Steelers didn't make it to Superbowl. He said, "Well, at least one team from Pennsylvania made it". Excuse me? That's definitely not good enough. If the Steelers didn't make it, I don't care who else is going. Everyone else just sucks. Well, obviously not. If they're good enough to make it to Superbowl, then chances of them sucking probably aren't that great.
Anyways...I'm singing with the worship team tonight at youth! YAY! I'm very, very, very excited about this. Dave T and I talked about me singing the other night and last night he called me to confirm. Woo-hoo! Can't wait.
So, now I'm leaving. I'm going to take a shower. I reek. Yes.

Any Prayer Requests?....

2005-01-31T20:49:00.000-05:00

Why, as a matter of fact, I do! So, I've been trying to be brave and not get too crazy emotional since I haven't been able to talk to Sean in forever (or at least that's what it feels like). I've been worried sick some days for him. But, all in all, I'm pretty much at peace. Some things have happened over the past week and it's been like God saying to me, "No worries, girly! I'm bringin' the boy home!" Woo-hoo! So, anyways. After thinking about him a lot and worrying and praying for him, I had a smile-making experience today. It's a little bit after 4:30 this afternoon and the phone rings. My sister informs me that the call's for me. No one ever calls for me - I'm a loser! So, anyways, I pick up the phone (after complaining because I was just about to read my book and then someone has the nerve to call) only to hear Sean's voice on the end! Instant joy right there, folks! My smile became permanently attached to my face. It was grand. He called from Kuwait. Love it! They had been in Sri Lanka for 2 weeks and Indonesia for 3 helping out with the tsunami relief efforts. He gave me his e-mail address there and I gave him mine. I sent him some pictures and he's going to send me his ground address so that I can keep in touch with him when he's on the field. So, what's the prayer request? you say. Pray for Sean. Pray for his unit. Pray for their safety and that God gives them strength and courage and that the next few months fly by like nobody's business so I can give that boy the biggest hug known to mankind! He said they'll be back in the States around the end of June or beginning of July. Woo hoo! He'll be home for his birthday so I have to think of something really great to do for him (which will most likely involve me heading down to California). Anyways, when it was time to say goodbye, I definitely started crying (they were mostly tears of joy mixed with a few sad ones because I want him here with me). I tried to hide it but I'm pretty sure he could tell. My voice was shaky. But it was okay, because I think his was too. We obviously miss each other like mad. He's my hero...I can't wait to see him again. My heart feels so full when I think about him. He's grand. Definitely. So, he's coming with me to Amy's wedding in August and he'll be able to meet my aunt and uncle from Germany (oh yeah, Jo - Onkel Eckhard and Tante Judy are coming in August!). So excited. I can't wait for my friends to meet him. Yay! Alright, enough. I'm going nuts.
So, basically, please pray for my boy's safety. And the safety of his friends. When he talked before he left, he was pretty bummed because he knew for sure that some of the guy's in his unit aren't coming home. That's definitely not a great thing to think about. But pray God keeps them safe and also pray for their families and loved ones. Because it's hard on all of us back home, too.
The few. The proud....

"It's the soldier, not the reporter,
Who gave us our freedom of the press.
It's the soldier, not the poet,
Who gave us our freedom of speech.
It's the soldier, not the campus organizer,
Who gave us our freedom to demonstrate.
It's the soldier, who salutes the flag,
Who serves others with respect for the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protestor to burn the flag."
-Father Denis Edward O'Brien,
USMC

Friends Forever!

2005-01-31T01:48:00.000-05:00

I love my people. This post is dedicated to all those people who make my life exciting. After church tonight we went to Dave's house and watched movies. I don't think I've laughed that hard since....well, since the last time we all hung out. I loved it. Phenomenal. So many great pictures, too. Yes! Driving out to Wheatley with Double Jenn was so fun too. I was hanging out the car window and went partly numb. Then we stopped at Jack's Coffee Shop to pee. They were closed but Jaclynn's grandpa let us pee anyways. Props to him. Then we had the greatest laugh of our lives. Jay-Boo and I almost wet ourselves....twice. It rocked. But, I swear, the three of us are ambushing Dave this week sometime and cleaning that room of his. It will be done, Dave. Oh yes, it will be done. For the sanity of your mom, if anything else. It really was such a good time. I realized tonight more than ever just how blessed I am to have these people in my life. They are so amazing. I can rely on them for a great laugh (and I don't just mean a chuckle, I mean one of those laughs that starts in the pit of your stomach and you end up doing one or all of the following: throwing up everywhere, crying like crazy, piss-panting yourself, getting an incredible pain in your side or losing your voice and simultaneously getting a laughter headache) and I can trust them with my deepest secrets. On the way to Wheatley and during our time spent at the Dave Ross Manor, we were laughing like fools. On the way home, Double Jenn and I had the deepest most amazing conversation. It's so hard to find such amazing friends but when you do, you realize how lucky you are to have them. I love my people. These kids rock! I'd do just about anything for all of them.
Also, plans were made tonight for a roadtrip. Double Jenn, Pete and Dave Ross and I will be heading somewhere some time soon. Not sure when. I think the obvious choice would be Pittsburgh since I know people there and I can get us some couches to sleep on. Only, we'll be taking the "long way". So we'll be making lots of stops and taking a few detours. Can't wait! Stay tuned for that!

"What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two (or multiple) bodies." - Plato

Whatever I Feel Like, Gosh....

2005-01-26T13:44:00.000-05:00

Heck yes! I love Napoleon Dynamite! I watched it the other day and at first, I found myself thinking "What the heck is up with this? What was MTV thinking?" Then I realized I love this movie! It's got the greatest quotes of all time ("What kind of gun did you use, Napoleon?" "A frickin' 12-gauge, what do you think?"). I'm in love with Napoleon Dynamite, the unexpected superhero. I recommend this movie. Twice. Napoleon and his little friend Pedro are hilarious. His brother Kip is great ("You're just jealous because I've been chatting online with babes all day..."). Uncle Rico is my hero. I love this movie a lot. You would never think that such a, well, different movie would make it so big, but it has. It's enjoyable. Watch it again and again. Love it.

"What are you doing today, Napoleon?"
"Whatever I feel like, gosh..."

Sad Day in Steeler Country

2005-01-23T22:53:00.000-05:00

Please bow your heads for a moment of silence............
Yup, it's a sad, dark day in Steeler Country. Blitzburgh lost to New England 41-27. Ow. That hurts. I was sitting on the front seat of the Bus the whole season and I was so sure they'd win. I was wrong. Now they have to send me to the Psycho Ward (okay, for the NFL illiterate, The Bus = Jerome Bettis/Psycho Ward = Hines Ward). I'm a little depressed. We actually turned the game off before it ended. First time that's happened in a while. My dad and I couldn't bring ourselves to watch it. I actually blame Geoff for this. Thanks a lot, kid! He made a remark earlier today about the Steelers losing and, behold, they did. It's your fault, Dilts. I'm coming after you! Okay, I'm not really, but still. I'm sad. But I have to put things into perspective. They had an amazing season. And I think Bill Cowher has found his Tom Brady. Roethlisberger is phenomenal. Props. Good season, kids. And I guess this was good practice for Ben for next season. Now he'll know what it's like to play in the AFC Championship game and maybe next year will be better. We can only hope that they get their Superbowl ring next year in Detroit (it's in Detroit, right?). Here's hoping. So, I lift my Rolling Rock to you guys, the boys of Blitzburgh. And, Jerome (another huge fan of my blog), if this really was your last season, it was a good one. You will always be "The Bus", it's been a fun ride.

"Victory belongs to the most persevering." - Napoleon Bonaparte

Arthritis & Snow

2005-01-22T18:09:00.000-05:00

Sooo…one of the effects of colitis is the possibility of getting arthritis. And I, lucky girl that I seem to be, have received this wonderful “gift” from my friend colitis. Oh, bliss… It’s mostly in my ankles, sometimes my knees and every once in a while I’ll feel ‘er flare up in the ol’ wrists. It’s grand, really it is. I was shovelling the snow this morning with my dad (okay, the Snow King must have taken a huge dump) and while I was scooping one particularly large shovel full of snow over to the side, I felt a shot of pain through my wrist. I dropped the shovel (and my snow - darn it!). It definitely wasn’t pleasant. And, apparently, being half-frozen doesn’t help the condition. When I got inside and settled under a blanket on the couch with my steaming white chocolate hot chocolate, my ankles were throbbing. Swell. It sucked huge. So, I’ve been popping Advil’s like nobody’s business. Before you know it, I’ll be joining the other old ladies on their rockers reminiscing about the good old days when I could walk, run, jump, dance…and now, “Oh! My aching joints!” Pretty soon I’ll be subscribing to Arthritis Today. I feel so old. Sure, chronologically, I’m 21. But my body ain’t feelin’ it! I feel so bad for Sean. Here he is thinking he’s found the girl he’s gonna grow old with. Little does he know I’ve beat him to the punch. I’m already old! Oh sheesh…I hate it. I was trying to think of the pro’s and con’s of having arthritis. The con side of my list is pretty long. The pro side? Not so much. Actually, the pro side is non-existent. Yessss!! I thought arthritis was something that only cursed senior citizens. Stupid me. If I get arthritis now, I wonder what my senior years hold in store for me… Can’t wait to find out.
Anyways, it’s like the sky opened up today. I went to bed last night with the snow melting with visions of sunny days and warmth. I woke up to a world covered in white snow. And it was waaaay below freezing. Not cool. Where’s my warm weather? Hello? I’ve decided that I’ve had enough of this crap and I can not wait to go to California. No snow. No temperatures below 50*F. No humidity (thank the Lord!). And relatively fewer bugs than we get here. And no June bugs!!! I can deal, I think. It’ll be fine.
Well, that’s enough of my ranting and raving. My friend Amanda’s taking me out tonight because we haven’t seen each since I got home and we have sooo much to talk about. So, I hope all of you enjoy yourselves on this wonderful Saturday evening. And remember…don’t eat yellow snow. Yuck.

"The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, 'I'm from the government and I'm here to help.'" - Ronald Reagan

I Love me Some Freedom of Speech!

2005-01-21T22:38:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm bored. I'm annoyed. I'm bored. I'm a little sad. I'm in a funk. I'm bored. Who wants to come visit me and put in a less bored-annoyed-sad-funky mood? Any takers on that? It's a Friday night and what I'm doing? What every 21-year-old unemployed, missing-her-boyfriend, annoyed gal would do. Sitting at home clicking through Star Choice and wondering to herself, "What happened to the good ol' days of TGIF with Urkel, Step by Step (Cody was such a babe!), and all those other classic tv shows? Where did they go? Now we're stuck with utter poo. No word describes it quite like poo does.
So, my day started out okay enough. My mom and I had to go get a new health card for myself in Windsor. There was a lot of confusion, the card got cancelled because they found out I was moving (yes! For 2 whole weeks! It's a record...really....). So, anyways, we tried to get me a new one today, but they want my passport so they can see the stamps in it so that they know I'm back for good. Well, surprise to the Ministry of Health, the one and only stamp I have in that little, blue book is the one that I got in 1987 when we immigrated over here. Good call. My passport will not prove my residency in Canada. So, once I get a job I'll have to bring in a pay stub or something that will prove I live here. But for now, I am without a health card. See, normally this wouldn't piss me off so much except for that little colitis issue. Why does the government have to give us such a huge runaround? And, don't worry folks, I'm not just talking about the magnarvelous Canadian government, this goes for my very own government as well. Last I remembered, the government was put into place "for the people, by the people". Is it the same way in Canada? I would imagine so. So, when I (I fall into the "people" category) want to get a new health card, for instance, why is there so much chaos? In the end what's it for? A piece of green plastic with a horrible self portrait? Wonderful! Again, if it wasn't for colitis, this health card thing might not bother me so much since the chances of me moving again in a year or so are very great. But that's not the only issue here. There are a lot of underlying issues. Doesn't it seem like sometimes the government is working against you instead of for you? And that's exactly what we're paying them for. Yes, taxes = nice houses and cars for politicians. I mean, I think democracy is a splendid idea. And when I see my President (since I'm an American and my allegiance is to the flag, not the maple leaf), I'll show respect whether he's a Republican (yay) or a Democrat (boo). I'll obey the rules, say the "Pledge of Allegiance", cover my heart when the anthem is played and I will always hold in high regard that beautiful banner of red, white and blue (it's hanging proudly on my bedroom wall). I'm proud of my military boyfriend and my military father, I'm grateful for my freedoms and for the people who spilled their blood for those freedoms. But I am sick to death of politicians, I'm sick to death of feeling like I have to fight for the simple things in life. Why can't life be easier? I am so rambling. I don't think I'm making sense at all. I just wish some things were changed, that's it. I think the Beatles put it best: "You say you want a revolution, well you know we all want to change the world". Did I hear someone say revolution? Yes please! Trust me, if I knew where to start, I'd start. I guess the best place for me to start would be in prayer. I'm going to pray for all those law makers and make sure that God keeps them in line (especially those rascally Democrats). We'll see where it goes from there. Until then, "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands: one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all" (yes, my hand was covering my heart).
Anyways, I'm ridiculously tired. I needed to get stuff off my chest. There's so much more inside waiting to come but me fingers is tired. So I'll go upstairs and rant to my mom until she eventually falls asleep. I love that kid.
And, by the way, congratulations to President George W. Bush on his second inauguration. I'm sure he'll read this since he's a huge fan on my blog. Say hi to Laura and the girls for me, Dubya. You rock!
Okay...I'm off. Remember...you're never to small to make a big change. Maybe I should think more about this revolution stuff..........

2005-01-18T19:42:00.000-05:00

You are "Welcome to the Caribbean, love."
You're more than a little world-weary, but also
intelligent and you keep your head when things
get dodgy. You're everybody's favorite
drinking buddy, but your stubbornness does get
in the way sometimes.

Which one of Captain Jack Sparrow's bizarre sayings from Pirates of the Caribbean are you?
brought to you by

Sleep...How do I Love Thee? Let me Count the Ways!

2005-01-18T18:52:00.000-05:00

I need sleep. I have so much to catch up on. I haven't been sleeping very good this week due to some bad dreams (dreams that I will not share on here because they really scare me). But I don't like sleeping in so I try to wake up early. So, no sleep and early morning calls are not a very good combination. Suffice it to say I'm pooped. I have crazy bags under my eyes and my arthritis has been getting worse. I feel foul. Yuck. Not to mention the whole "worrying about Sean" thing I've got going on. He told me a trillion times before he left not to worry. "Where else am I gonna go? Of course I'm coming home." Okay, drop the 'tough guy' act. I still worry. Guys...sheesh.
So, my dad's wanting to go to Pittsburgh for another visit in a few weeks. If he goes, I'll be heading down with him. Might not be able to live there, but it's still cool for visiting purposes. Should be fun (I hope...fingers crossed). Awesome times with my Beth and hopefully with Amy, too. Fingers crossed.
Jess and her friend (Tara) are looking into renting a place together. They want to rent a house somewhere in Leamington. What's with us Kuchta girls and moving in and out, in and out? We're crazy. But it would definitely be good for Jess - and for me. I'd have a place to escape to, I hope. Tara's great. Jess finally got a new job to her so congrats to older Kuchta girl. She's going to be working at Citi Financial giving out loans and stuff. Kudos to her.
Okay, so I'm sitting here with a zillion things going through my mind...I'm so tired...I wonder where I put my Lost Prophets CD...What am I going to wear tomorrow? I should do some laundry...What time should we leave for Windsor on Friday?...Laundry! I have to go do laundry. That, and Maya really stinks. I'm giving that motha "shut yo' mouth" a bath. Blech. She smells somethin' nasty, I tell ya.
Well, I'm off to washify the laundry and destinkify my dog.

Sic transit gloria mundi
(So the glory of this world passes away)

More Sadness....sheesh

2005-01-16T21:32:00.000-05:00

So, Pastor Scott read his letter of resignation today in church. I'm not going to comment on the issue besides saying I'm very sad and I'll miss him too much. It was rough when he read the letter. Lots of crying on my part and I was unable to look up at anyone. Thank God for Kleenex. I'll miss the Corkill bunch. Especially little Evan: "Go Pittsburgh! Go Ben! Yaaaay! You win me!". Best wishes to the Corkill clan. God bless you all and I hope you get nothing but the best out of life because I know you deserve it. Thank you for everything you've done over the past 2 1/2 years. You will never be forgotten. "Don't walk behind me, I may not lead. Don't walk behind me, I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend." (Albert Camus). Thanks for being our friend.

Intensity!

2005-01-15T22:06:00.000-05:00

YESSSSS!! What an intense game that one was! Steelers beat the Jets 20-17 in overtime. My dad and I were near tears a few times! It was a rough one, but they pulled through in the end. Keep it up, boys. We need that fifth Superbowl ring from Jacksonville!!

GO STEELERS

I'm 12-teen!!

2005-01-15T01:34:00.000-05:00

This is dedicated to my 'Lizbeth. This is one of those "you-had-to-be-there" type things...

Okay, so, like, I'm 12teen. My boyfriend's in a punk-rock band. So sometimes I where t-shirts that say "I'm with the band", 'cause, like, I really am. But I really don't like his music. I'd rather listen to Ja-Rule or Britney Spears. My boyfriend says that "society doesn't understand him". I don't know what that's supposed to mean. He's so complicated. I don't get it. I just think he's really cute and, like, he's in a punk-rock band, so that makes him cool. And it makes me even cooler 'cause he's my boyfriend. Like, sometimes my dad calls me an airhead. I don't really get that either. I'm not an airhead *giggle*. My dad's, like, so silly. Last week was the Junior Prom at my school. Like, Sarah had the same dress on as me. I was so furious. But then I realized that my boyfriend's in a punk-rock band so I'm automatically cooler than her anyways. I had an alright time. They played too much punk-rock though. And not enough Usher. I like, love Usher. Did I mention that my boyfriend's in a punk-rock band? My older brother's the quarterback of his school's football team. He can throw the ball farther than he can run. He's so cool. And I'm cool, too, 'cause my boyfriend's in a punk-rock band.

This is also dedicated to all those mini-skirt wearing, punk-rock hating, French-manicured, bottle blond 12teen-year-olds (of all ages) out there. I wish I was you. I love everything you stand for. Like, totally... :)

Being Grown up isn't Half as Fun as Growing Up.

2005-01-13T16:09:00.000-05:00

Okay, now that I've calmed down, it's time for a new post. So, I was thinking to myself the other day (I've had a LOT of time to just sit and think) about growing up and how ridiculously scary it is. A lot of people that I know are getting married and stuff. There's Darryl, Dave T, Brad, and (of course) Amy. What is going on? This is strange. When's my turn?! Soon, I'm hoping! But it's so strange. It feels like just last week we were in Jr. High and doing our little immature kid things. Our biggest problem was not knowing whether or not someone had a crush on us. Now we're working, moving out, getting married and starting our own families. It's blowing my mind just a little bit. Scary stuff this growing up thing is. Weirdness. But I guess this is the fun part. Getting to where we want to be. It's scary, but it's fun - in it's own weird way. When I was younger (even when I was 16), 21 seemed so old. Now I'm there and it's weird looking back at when I was "young". In about five months, I will be 22. That's even scarier. And what's scarier than that is my boyfriend is almost 30! Well, he's only 26 (27 in August), but that's a lot closer to 30 than I am. I don't like this being old thing. It frightens me. I'm going on a quest to find the fountain of youth so that I (and anyone I favor) can stay at my current age forever. YES! What a magnarvelous idea that is. I'll do it! Or maybe I won't and I'll just try my best to age gracefully. Although, I doubt I have to start worrying about aging quite yet. Maybe when I hit 30 I'll start to worry about it. Right now, I'm just gonna wait for my turn at the engagement game and worry about what happens after that. :)

Word of the Day (a creation of my own): Marvelous + Magnificent = MAGNARVELOUS

Alienation sucks the Big One...I'm Right Ticked!

2005-01-11T20:28:00.000-05:00

Okay, so, I hate being alienated by people who were supposed to be there for you through it all. Especially at times in life when you reeeaally need them. For example, let's pretend your boyfriend goes overseas for six months and you're super worried about him staying safe and you're crazy anxious for him to get home because you miss him like mad and you just want to give him the biggest, tightest bear hug known to mankind. Then, when you need your bestest best friend of all time the most because you want to cry to her when you really miss your amazing boyfriend, she's too preoccupied with her dingbat "fiance" or she can't think of anything except for how cruel the world is to her because no one likes him. Well, if no one likes him, maybe you should step back and consider why that is? Could it be that he's got no respect for any member of your family? Or could it possibly be that he's rude and obnoxious? Or how about the fact that he's 22 and still acts like he's 13 all the time? Okay, I'll admit, sometimes I'll bust out my "12teen year old" act and act like a complete buffoon, but I know when to be serious and I have respect for people and I don't disregard their feelings. And - this is even better - when you find out that I'm moving back home, the best thing to do would be to ignore me. Definitely. Because that won't make me feel like cheese. Wait...YES IT WILL!!! See, my "best friend" and I might have similar situations (short relationships that got serious quick). But there are some notable differences: 1) Sean and I actually have serious conversations that are intellectual and we're both smart and can use big words and figure out what makes two people cousins. 2) Sean's got huge respect for my parents...and even my little sister. 3) I've got respect for Sean's parents. Props to Linda and Mike. Shall I continue? I really don't think I need to. But just so you know, the list could go on forever. Whatever.
Anyways...I love blogs. You can complain like nobody's business. So, I was helping her plan their "wedding". Correction: I was practically planning the whole affair. But after finding out she's been badmouthing me to anyone with ears and she's got blinders on and can't see why I'm so upset, I'm pulling out of this atrocity. Maid of honor? Not me. I know it sounds cold and harsh, but you'll be lucky if you even get an invite to the Foley-Kuchta wedding. So how does alienation feel now? Thanks.

Sometimes Plans Change

2005-01-09T15:23:00.000-05:00

Okay, so, I tried that whole Pittsburgh thing. I thought it was a dream come true. I'm a little bummed to say that I was wrong. I'm not bummed because I wanted it so badly; I'm bummed because I was wrong and I hate being wrong. A lot. So, I'm back in Leamington. My parents picked me up yesterday. We got back to Leamington at around 1:30 this morning. There were some family "issues" that I really couldn't deal with down there and I just realized that this wasn't my dream come true. I would rather move back to Leamington for six more months and then move to California when Sean, er, you know... I'm just saving myself the stress and hassle. So I went to church this morning and it was so good to see everyone but it was so weird not seeing Pete. We had Mr. Tomek (who is now, just so ya know, engaged) on the drums as usual but there was no Pete. I wish him the best and we're praying for a speedy and full recovery. Pastor John informed us this morning, however, that no matter how bad the damage he's still got that crazy sense of humor! That's so good to hear. I love that kid.
In other news, the Steelers have their Bye week this week so it's a little strange not watching them on tv. They played the NY Jets last week and Maddox was QB 'cause my poor Big Ben had a rib injury. People were speculating that the Steelers wouldn't win this game (because Maddox isn't the greatest...). But guess what?! They won anyways!! These kids are unstoppable. They just need to stay humble. 'Cause as soon as they get cocky, they go down. So, they play next week and (luckily) they have home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Pittsburgh fans are insane (I know this personally) and they'll cheer them to victory! So next week they play either the Giants or the Broncos. I can't remember which one. But they'll crush 'em, whoever it is! HERE WE GO! PITTSBURGH'S GOIN' TO THE SUPERBOWL!!! If they make it, everyone gets an IC Light, Rolling Rock or Yuengling on moi!
Sooo...welcome back to Leamington, me. But don't get too comfortable, in at least six months I'm gone again.

Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing. - Abraham Lincoln

Here I am...Rock you Like a Hurricane!

2004-12-30T20:28:00.000-05:00

Here I am guys! I've finally made it. Dreams really do come true, I guess. I'm sitting up at my aunt's house (which is a hop, skip and a jump away from my gramma and pap's). I'm sitting beside my phenomenal cousin ELIZABETH. Also known as just plain, old Beth. I love her much. The drive here was pretty uneventful. A regular family drive to the Burgh. We all slept a lot. I was up at 4:30. The excitement of moving woke me up. My parents left yesterday and that was reeeeeally hard to deal with. My mom cried a lot which was rough to see. Since she's German, she doesn't tend to show a lot of emotion. But seeing her that sad was pretty rough for me. So, we said our goodbyes and everyone was teary-eyed. Then I went out with my aunt and uncle and Amy met us afterwards (she was working). It was fun. Wednesday's are going-out nights for Amy's parents so I tagged along. It was fun. I met all of their old friends and that was interesting, to say the least. Tomorrow night is New Year's Eve. Yay. I guess there's a free concert at Station Square in downtown. Perhaps I might go, perhaps not. We shall see. But Amy informed me that her plans consist of sitting at home so I just might not be chilling with her. Not feeling that vibe, ya dig?
Well, Pittsburgh's rocking my socks in a pretty crazy way. I start work Monday and I'm loving everything so far. I miss Sean like mad still, though. That's a little rough. But whenever I miss him and get sad, we remember that he's coming home soon and then I get to go see him in California. I love that kid.
Guess what I get to do with my Beth? We're going to the Andy Warhol Museum. Not sure when, but definitely soon. Andy Warhol is from Pittsburgh so it's obvious they'd have a museum for him, right? It's kind of like how Leamington pays tribute to the tomatoes with that big, stupid tomato in the middle of town. Kind of the same, only better. Way better. Go Andy Warhol...it's your birthday...we're gonna party like it's your birthday! Whoop whoop!
I miss my Leamington people. I don't miss Leamington, just my people. You guys are my life! I want to hear from you all super soon! Take care, have a safe new year and hopefully I'll be seeing you guys really soon.

"They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself." - Andy Warhol

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2004-12-22T22:33:00.000-05:00

Well, it's that time of the year again. Kids are coming home from school to visit their parents. Younger kids are writing letters to the North Pole (and wasting money on postage, at that). The malls are crowded like crazy. And almost every house is decorated with pretty lights. That's right, it's the most wonderful time of the year. It's been snowing like crazy and there's lots of snow out there, so now I'm definitely in the mood for the holidays! I love the snow. Looking outside and seeing so much white is soo awesome. It's phenomenal!!! I love it. Really and truly. What I do not love, however. Are the retarded crowds everywhere. We went to Wal-Mart today to pick up some random things (not Christmas-related...all that shopping is done) and the amount of people there was frightening! I was, literally, afraid. That many people should not be in one place at the same time. So, I've decided that every December I will not go shopping (especially so close to Christmas) unless it's an absolute emergency. No way! Uh-uh! And when I have kids of my own, the Christmas shopping will be done in July or something. I'll avoid the ridiculous Christmas shopping crowds at all costs. It's ludicrous, I tell ya! Absolutely ludicrous.
On another (completely different) note, Beth and I have started making a list of words that are fun to say. Say them a couple of times each and you'll see what I mean: Absolutely, phenomenal, ridiculous, spectacular. Those are just a few. If you have any suggestions to add to "the list", please let me know.
So, I'm off. I was outside a little while ago and I'm still frozen so I'm making myself some of that white chocolate hot chocolate that I love so dearly!

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!

Frosty Can Shove it....

2004-12-20T22:00:00.000-05:00

Okay. Temperature check: -7 Celsius. That's just a little bit ridiculous to me! I'm not really diggin' this cold weather a whole lot. Meanwhile, in California, it's like 16 Celsius (which is 60 Farenheit). I would probably love to be over on the West Coast right now. Sitting on the beach in San Diego, basking in the warmth, sipping on a pina colada. That would be the life! And normally the coldness isn't so bad, except there's not enough snow on the ground to justify these ridiculous temperatures!! I mean, if it was this cold but I was outside making a snow angel or having a snowball fight or snowmobiling, that would be okay. But when I'm outside and it's this cold with pavement, grass and painful wind, then it's definitely not okay. Definitely. I hate it. And it's not like I'm going to a better place (temperature-wise). Pittsburgh's just as bad (if not worse) than Leamington as far as weather's concerned. Grrr... So, I've decided that I'm moving to California. I'll live in Pittsburgh and deal with this ridiculous northern weather for a little while longer. But (hopefully soon) I'm moving to California to get away from this absurdity. I've had it. I've lived in cold climates my entire 21 years. I deserve some warmth allll year, right? So, I'm getting it. Up yours, winter. Up yours.

"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer." - Albert Camus

Super Santa Sale!!

2004-12-17T20:50:00.000-05:00

So, my mom and I went to the mall today so she could finish her Christmas shopping. I'd like to start this post by saying how much I hate the mall just before Christmas. It sucks. Traffic, crowds, cheesy Christmas carols about chestnuts, and - worst of all - Santa Claus. Afterwards, we sat down to watch a little tv. Well, every single commercial was advertising for Christmas sales. They all had one thing in common: Santa Claus. Do you know how much I completely loathe that fat man? So I asked myself, "What has happened to Christmas?" If you ask any average adult on the street what the true meaning of Christmas is, the most common response you'll likely get is something along the lines of "family, kindness, compassion, blah, blah, blah...". While those are all great things and we should most definitely celebrate them (every day, though, not just December 25), they're not the true meaning of Christmas. The true meaning of Christmas is a little Baby who was born 2000 years ago in a smelly, dirty, nasty stable next to cows and sheep and piles of manure. An incredibly special Baby who was sent to redeem mankind and offer us the greatest gift that can't be bought or manufactured by the Big Man of the North Pole - Salvation. I know everyone can get caught up in the decorations, the gifts and all that Christmas-y jazz, but the one thing that we should really be celebrating is the salvation that God offers to us. The salvation that was made possible by a precious Baby born all those years ago. It's nice to be with family and friends during the holiday season, just as long as we're celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. We can never forget that. So happy holidays and I hope you remember Christ through this season and beyond. After all, He gave us the greatest gift.

"While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her first-born, a Son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." (Luke 2:6-7)

My "Amazingly Phenomenal" Weekend

2004-12-15T13:12:00.000-05:00

Well, my weekend with the cousins was phenomenal! I had such an amazing time with them. So many inside jokes were created and so much fun was had by all involved. We hung out with the Wheatley crew, cooked (it was scary), laughed like nobody's business...it was just a great time. The first night they were here, Amy and I decided to cook meat loaf. We got our little meat mixture together but my mom had left and I didn't know where the meat loaf pan was so we improvised and put the meat into a muffin tin! We made our very own creation: meat muffins! When people heard that's what we were having for dinner, they were ridiculously scared. But it was still good. It just looked a little funny. Okay, it looked really funny. Poor Sean has no idea what he's getting himself into... We may have to hire a cook!
And speaking of Sean, he called here last night! It was soo amazing to hear from him. We haven't talked in a crazy long time because he's been busy training. They shipped out of San Diego December 6, and now they're in Honolulu, HI. I'm super jealous. He said it was 80F, beautiful weather. That didn't help with the whole jealousy issue.. Then they're off to some more beautiful places (Phillipines, Asia...etc., etc.) before they reach their destination. He's not quite sure of where that will be, but I'd prefer it if he was here instead of over there. Oh well...the Rolling Stones said it best: "You can't always get what you want...". So, he's home in 6 months. Mel needs loooooots of patience (and prayer) until then. You can be sure that I won't be watching a lot of news shows or CNN while he's gone. I'd rather not watch those reports on Iraq. Let's pretend he's somewhere safe.
So, I had a magnificent weekend and it was made even more wonderful by a fantastic phone call from a very, very special marine. Giddyup! I hope you all had a great weekend too.
Countdown to Moving Day: 12 days!!

"In 3 words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: It goes on!"

So Much Excitement!

2004-12-10T17:50:00.000-05:00

TOMORROW!!!! Amy and Beth come here tomorrow! Oh, I'm so happy. I haven't seen either of them since July. And if you know anything about me, you know that's a loooong time to go without seeing someone from Pittsburgh! I'm so excited. Beyond excited! Woo-hoo!!!! Plus, I finished packing (finally). There was a lot of stuff that I had that I decided I didn't want to bring to Pittsburgh. So I've got a lot less than I originally thought I did. Now it's just a matter of cleaning the rest of that stuff out of my room and getting it ready for Natalie. I was talking to my mom last night and it still hasn't really hit me yet that I'm moving. It hasn't hit her, either. It'll probably really get to us when they're about to leave me in Pittsburgh. I don't even want to think about that day! I know I'll be a mess! Yikes! But I've definitely had a great peace about moving. I know - I'm 127% sure - that this is what I'm supposed to be doing right now. It's so awesome. As hard as it's going to be to leave my family and friends behind, I know God's got greater things for me. Yeah! Let's hear it for greater things!! Whoop whoop!! December 27 will definitely be bittersweet.
Onto other things (stil Pittsburgh-related, however), my grandpa has decided to sell me his car. He hasn't driven in a couple of years. He's always just kind of had the car. So, my aunt finally took the insurance off of it and they decided to let me buy it (for dirt cheap too). I love how everything's just working out so splendidly. Yesss!!!
Well, I guess I'll go finish cleaning my room (since Amy and Beth definitely need a place to sleep this weekend). Keep on truckin'.

"We all have changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance." - Harrison Ford

I'm Not Okay...

2004-12-08T10:45:00.000-05:00

Okay, I think it's finally hit me. I'm sitting here waiting for my dad to come home because we ran out of packing tape and he's bringing me some. I just looked around my room and realized that there's only 19 days left until I leave this place and I still have a ton of stuff to pack up! It's not going very well. I know this might sound weird, but I don't know how to pack a lot of my stuff. Oh no! I've got a lot of my clothes that I won't need and books and pictures and stuff packed. That's the easy stuff to take care of. Maybe I'll just toss everything into a few boxes and not worry about how it goes in. Or maybe not... Who wants to pack for me? Any volunteers?
I can't believe I'm leaving! I'm so used to everything here. It's comfortable for me, you know? And now everything's getting turned upside down and I absolutely can not wait!! It's so exciting! Any fears or reservations that I might have had or still have are completely pushed aside by my excitement! It's a dream that's finally coming true and there's nothing like that! Yes, it's sad, but life goes on. We have to grow up and sometimes growing up means leaving. That's what it happens to mean in my case.
Anyways...I just had the world's worst cup of coffee. I don't know what I did, but it tasted like dookie. Not cool. I'm pretty sure I made it the same way I normally do, but it definitely doesn't taste the same. I really messed it up this time. Yuck.
Anyways, my dad just got home. I have a feeling that this entire day and maybe some of tomorrow will be devoted to packing and getting my things ready to go. Because before I know it, December 27 will be here. I'll have no "packing time" this weekend because Amy and Beth will be here. Then I have a couple of appointments that week and some things to do with my mom. Then the week after that, I have another appointment, Natalie's birthday and then - wham - Christmas. So I'll be a busy girl over the next couple of days. Yikes.
Okay! I'm going to pack now! No more putting it off.

"We make a living but what we get, we make a life by what we give." - Sir Winston Churchill

Some People Call me the Space Cowboy...

2004-12-07T08:53:00.000-05:00

Okay, there's only 20 days left and the fact that I'm leaving my home of 18 years and moving to a big, huge city five hours away still hasn't hit me. I mean, I'm so stoked to be going, but it hasn't actually hit me yet that I won't be coming home. Well, I'll be coming home for visits and stuff, but I won't actually be living here again. I'll be on my own, my own bills, my own responsibilities, my own life. In only 20 days, my entire life is going to change in such a drastic change and it hasn't hit me quite yet. You'd think I'd be scared or nervous, but I'm not. Not yet, anyways. I can't believe I'm doing this....finally. My parents are proud of me for finally "growing up". My little sister's happy that she gets the coveted "big bedroom" of the house. My Amy is stoked that I'm going to be down there and I'll be close to help her plan the wedding. I'm excited, too, it's a dream come true! But shouldn't I at least be a little scared or nervous too? What's going on?!
In other news...Amy and Beth are coming really, really soon! I'm so excited!! They're my favorites. Yay. Such crazy American girls, they are. We're gonna have a great time. Well, we're going to have as much fun as you can have in a town of tomatoes. It'll be grand! :)
So, I'm off. I have an appointment with the doctor today. The last one with this doctor, I believe. Too bad.
Keep on truckin'!

"You can close your eyes to what you do not want to see, but you can not close your heart to what you do not want to feel..."

I Found It!!

2004-12-05T10:04:00.000-05:00

I found my Christmas spirit! It was stuffed in a box with the decorations!! We decorated the tree the other day and it totally put me in the mood for Christmas! Bring on the holidays! Yay!
Only sad thing about this time of year? Sean ships out tomorrow :(. That's seriously depressing. Six months in the Middle East. Yikes. Pray for him and his unit - that they stay safe.
I'm off to church. Adios!

I've Lost Something...

2004-12-03T13:17:00.000-05:00

Okay, so it's now December 3 and I have an issue. Normally, around the end of November, Natalie and I will set up the Christmas tree, my mom and I will start baking our Christmas cookies and it just feels like Christmas. We're all excited for the holidays, counting down, eating the little chocolate from our Advent calendar with our breakfast, lighting the candles in the Advent wreath. How about this year? Our plastic tree is barely put together and standing empty in the living room. There are no cookies made (well, I made peanut butter cookies a week or so ago, but they were for our small group). No Advent calendars and I have yet to see the wreath. And the weirdest thing? I'm not excited for Christmas. I've lost my Christmas spirit, I think. Some friends have said that maybe it's because I'm so excited to move to Pittsburgh that I've forgotten all about Christmas. Whatever the reason is, it sucks. Personally, I say it's because Christmas has become so commercialized that I'm not really looking forward to the lights, cookies, gifts and such. I don't know. But I mentioned this at the Dilts's last week and Dryden looked at me all confused and said "How do you lose your Christmas spirit?" I told him that I just wasn't excited for Christmas this year. He gave me some good advice. He told me to go see 'The Polar Express'. That will definitely help me find my Christmas spirit. Then I'm supposed to write him a letter and tell him how it made me feel. That kid is too cute. So, I think when Amy and Beth come next week, we might take Dryden's advice and go see that movie. Hopefully it will put me back in the mood for Christmas.
It could also be this crazy weather. Where's my snow? I haven't seen any this year, not even a little bit. That's very un-cool. Hopefully we'll get some. I know I'm almost guaranteed some in Pittsburgh, but I won't be in Pittsburgh for Christmas. I want snow now! That would definitely with the whole "Christmas spirit" ordeal.

"Next to a circus, there ain't nothing that packs up and tears out faster than the Christmas spirit." - Kin Hubbard

Comfortably Numb

2004-12-01T16:49:00.000-05:00

So, I just got back from the dentist. That has to be my least favorite place in the world. Well, I had to get a filling so they froze my mouth. Only now the whole left side of my face is numb. It's definitely a pretty cool feeling. When I touch my lips or my nose, it feels so weird. I started drooling at the office and then my nose started running but I couldn't feel it. It was a little embarassing and somewhat gross. But evenso, it feels cool. I'm so weird... My mom was laughing at me on the way home because I was all giggly and making fun of myself. I talk funny. I was pinching my cheek and poking my nose and stretching my lips and I didn't feel any of it. I thought it was so funny. Ha ha. Reminds me of a song by Pink Floyd..."Comfortably Numb". That's me!

There is no pain, you are receding

A distant ship smoke on the horizon

You are coming through in waves

Your lips move but I can't hear what you're saying

When I was a child I had a fever

My hands felt just like two balloons

Now I've got that feeling once again

I can't explain, you would not understand

This is not how I am

I have become comfortably numb

My Testimony

2004-11-29T19:03:00.000-05:00

Okay, so before I move, I'm sharing my testimony at a PM service at church. I'm super nervous 'cause I'm not really the greatest public speaker ever. So, I've written up my testimony and I'm gonna put it up on here (hopefully it's not too long) for the Internet world to read (well, only 3 people will probably end up reading this). Feel free to let me know what you think. If you have any questions or anything you want to tell me, shoot. Here goes:

As most of you already know, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis almost four years ago. I became very sick in January but I wasn't diagnosed until March. Waiting to find out was a long and incredibly difficult journey. What was even more difficult was trying to get this disease under control and learning how to live with it and deal with the pain it caused. After a while, I had become depressed and angry. I blamed God for my sickness and wondered how He could let something like this happen to me. I went to church, I read my Bible, I did everything a Christian was supposed to do so why was He punishing me? What had I done? I remember one afternoon while I was home alone, I was sitting on my bathroom floor. I didn't have the energy to get up and I was in too much pain to move. I began crying and pleading with God to take this sickness or take my life. I couldn't deal with my pain anymore, I had had enough. After a while, someone gave me a book by Philip Yancey called 'Where is God When it Hurts?' I started reading it right away because this was a question I had asked a lot. I felt like God had left me in my time of need. I learned a lot through that book. I also started reading about Job in the Bible. I began realizing that God hadn't gone anywhere, I was the one who was wandering away. I also realized that God isn't the one who made me sick, He wasn't punishing me for anything. The only thing that I had done wrong was lose my faith in my time of need. When I felt far away from Him, it wasn't because He left me, it was because I left Him. I started trusting in Him more. I asked for His help and He gave it to me and I started feeling better. I wasn't healed from colitis but I finally went into remission. Eventually, I met a distant relative of mine who had also had colitis. He had been on the same steroids my doctor prescribed to me. He had been on them for much longer, though. Unfortunately, because of this strong medication, his bones became incredibly brittle and it got to the point where he could not longer walk without crutches and sometimes he needed a wheelchair. He had had surgery to remove his colon and he had metal rods in his legs. One night, they had a service at his church and God miraculously healed his legs. He was never seen without his crutches and that night he walked out of church carrying nothing but his Bible. After hearing his story, I began wondering why God hadn't healed me of my colitis? Where was my miracle? But then I remembered something in that book by Philip Yancey. He wrote: "I believe hope for healing should be presented realistically. It is just that - a "hope", not a guarantee. If it comes, a joyous miracle has happened. If it does not come, God has not let you down. He can use even the infirmity to produce good. He does promise that without fail". Sure, I believe God can heal me. I have no doubt that He can and I will continue to ask Him too.
I recently had a relapse and it was so difficult to deal with. I was admitted to the hospital for a few days. They gave me a couple of blood transfusions and I had to go back onto Prednisone for a little while. Before my relapse, I had started cutting back on my devotions. I started "back sliding" a little. After being sick for a couple of weeks, I remembered how hard it had been four years ago when I tried to get through my struggle without God and I depended on myself to get things done. I started drawing closer to God and the closer we got, the healthier I became. He became my Best Friend, more than ever before. I know that no matter what I go through in my life, He's always there waiting to help me through it. No matter how I sick I get, whatever the circumstance, He's right there with me. He'll never give up on me and knowing that makes me realize that I can't give up, either. There are still times when I just want to give up because I know that it won't always be easy. There will always be trials and difficult times, but when I feel this way, I think of what it says in James 1:12: "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him".

My Thoughts are So Random...

2004-11-27T21:56:00.000-05:00

Okay, I finally watched "The Terminal" (starring Tom Hanks) last night. I stayed up until 2am to watch it and it was so worth it. I love that movie. It's great. I think it might be some of Tom Hanks' best work. Super awesome. I cried at the beginning (usually I cry at the end of a movie, so I knew this one was going to be good) when he was running around to all the different television sets. That's all I'm going to say because I don't want to give it away for anyone who hasn't seen it. And to those people who haven't seen it, I have this to say: "Rent it!" It's really good. I laughed, I cried... Good stuff.
So, my mom and I went to get eggs and I almost passed out at the A&P. They had white chocolate hot chocolate!! I love me some white chocolate so (lucky me), my mom bought a can. Whoop whoop!! After I recovered my first sip (yeah, it set my throat on fire, I never learned to drink hot liquids slowly), I almost passed out again because it was just that good. I want to find whoever thought "hey, you know what would be good? White chocolate hot chocolate" and shake their hand. That was a great idea. If you're out there, I thank you from the depths of my soul. I am a white chocoholic. Mmmm.... My mom and I went to Covent Garden Market in London on Monday after my appointment and they have this little stand where they sell some German food products and they had white chocolate Milka bars. Now, I'm sure Steph can attest to this. Regular Milka bars are like heaven. So good. Every time someone comes from Germany, they're packin' the Milkas. Finding a place over here that sells them has saved my life (okay, not really - that's a slight exaggeration). And now that I know Milka has white chocolate, I think I may die happy. Let's hear it for white chocolate! Hooray!
Why am I so weird? It's all my dad's fault...I know it is. I'm such a burn victim. Please don't make me explain what this is if you don't know. Please. I'll tell you some other time.
I took Maya the dog for a walk before. It was maybe 8:00. It was dark already. I'm so brave - venturing out onto the streets of Leamington after dark... Anyways, I was so angry because my pants were just a touch longer than my legs and the ground's wet. So when I got home and took off my shoes, the ice-cold pants hit my legs and it was not a very nice feeling. So I went in my room (and being the drama queen that I am) I threw them in the hamper while complaining about how short I am (thanks much to the Germans, they may give me chocolate, but I'm not so sure that makes up for my height deficiency). But it felt good. My ears were a little numb 'cause it's a little chilly out, but it still felt good.
One more thing and then I'm done. I went to youth last night (which made me feel even older) and afterwards, we went to the Dilts's. WELL, Dave gave Pete the most massive wedgie in the history of the universe and tore is boxers. They were seriously shredded. It was so funny. Poor Peter. The guys were being ridiculous all night. I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. I love those kids. But I think they need to be careful, because they all keep trying to sack each other and I'm just afraid that this may have an affect on future, um, baby-production. Crazy.
Well, now I'm off to finish my white chocolate hot chocolate and chill with my mom and dad. Hooray.

"Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing." - Abraham Lincoln

Kiss me, I'm Irish?

2004-11-26T10:33:00.000-05:00

Well, yesterday was the big day, I got my hair cut. I feel like such a girly-girl making such a big deal over my hair... A lady from our church cut it. She's super nice. And she did a good job. It's not too short and it's not frizzy anymore. So I'm okay with it. Now this is the last time I will write anything about my hair. Promise.
So, yesterday was Thanksgiving and I was so depressed. I would have given almost anything to be in Pittsburgh with my family. Chowing down on turkey and all the trimmings, watching the game with my uncle. It would have been awesome. Well, there's always next year. I'm not saying this in a bad or mean way, but it seems to me that Americans "get into" their holidays just a little bit more than people up here do. So, that got me to thinking about all the upcoming holidays that I'll be celebrating in my new home and how excited I am. There's New Year's, Valentine's Day (I loathe this day, but I figured I'd mention it just because), St. Patty's Day, Easter...the list goes on and on. I think the one holiday I'm most stoked about is St. Patty's Day. There are lots of Irish people in Pittsburgh so it's fun. They have the big parade and lots of celebration. Since my boyfriend's Irish, this has become a big day for me, too. And since he won't be around on March 17, I guess I'll have to do twice the celebrating for him. I love holidays.
My mom and I watched the movie "Elf" last night. It was awesome. I love Will Ferrel. He's so hilarious. I was laughing so hard through that movie. It was great. I definitely recommend it.
Well, my stomach's telling me it's time for breakfast. A late breakfast, but that's okay.
Keep on rockin'.

"Dreaming permits each and every one of us to be quietly and safely insane every night of our lives." - William Dement

HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!

2004-11-24T21:53:00.000-05:00

To any fellow American folks who might be reading this: Happy Thanksgiving to you! I'm thankful for freedom, my family, my amazing (I can't stress how amazing) friends. I'm thankful for a large Tim Horton's triple-triple (which I'll miss a lot when I move to Pittsburgh - if only Mr. Horton's would follow me there) and the marvelous honey crullers. I'm thankful that I had an opportunity to grow up in this town and experience the things that I have and I'm thankful for the opportunities and experiences that I'll have in my new home with my new friends. I'm thankful for the people who helped save me from myself. I'm thankful for my parents' house that they let me live in and the food they let me eat. I'm thankful that God gave me a wonderful person that I've had the opportunity to develop strong feelings for, my special hero. I'm thankful for Milka milk chocolate, white chocolate and chocolate with a strawberry yogurt center. I'm thankful for my 35-cent-a-piece prescriptions (which I will also miss). I'm thankful for my (sometimes shady) health.
There are a lot of things I'm thankful for. But this thanksgiving, don't just be satisfied with the feeling thankful; thank the people who are in your life that make it better. And while you're at it, pass the yams, please...

"Gratitude is born in hearts that take time to count up past mercies." - Charles E. Jefferson

Losing My Hair

2004-11-24T13:32:00.000-05:00

Yay!! Prednisone's all done!! Today was my last day. No more. That makes me so happy. What a horrible drug. When I saw the empty pill bottle, I wanted to cry. Okay, no I didn't. I lied, but still. I was pretty stoked. I need to celebrate. I wanted to go for a walk, but it's pouring rain outside so I'm thinking the walk's a no-go. It's so gloomy. I hate it. And I'm so tired, too. I've picked up this little cold and I had a rough go at breathing last night so sleep didn't come very easily. Once I finally did fall asleep, I didn't sleep very well because I couldn't breathe. It was not very pleasant. Can't say that I enjoyed it a whole lot.
So tomorrow I'm going to get my hair cut. I've been complaining for the past month (maybe 2 now) about my frizz. It's a pain. Plus it's just getting ridiculous. My hair's out of control. So my mom's been at me to get a haircut. I didn't think I was really attached to my hair (well, I am attached to my hair, like it's stuck on me, but I mean emotionally), but I think I am. And I think that's weird. We were looking at different hair styles and some of them were short but then I got sad because I like my long hair. I am such a loser. I can't believe it. Like, I've seen some of those makeover shows where girls actually cry when they get their hair chopped and I think that's so pathetic, but I'm starting to feel a little anxious about someone taking a pair of scissors to my hair. Am I mental or what? It's hair, it'll grow back, right? I think I need therapy. I am so far from normal. There's normal, there's weird and then there's Mel. So sad, really.
Okay, so on Sunday I was really looking forward to watching the Steelers play the Bengals (in Cincinnati) but, much to my dismay, the game wasn't on tv anywhere. I was less than impressed about that one. My dad and I ended up watching the Browns game (I hate the Browns). We have satellite and every single Global channel had the same NFL game on...and it wasn't the Pittsburgh game so I was mad. But this Sunday, the Redskins are going to try to beat the Steelers and if it's not televised here, I'll be very upset. Now, I say the Redskins will "try", but to no avail. Ever since they made Roethlisberger the starting QB (thanks to Maddox's injury in Game 2), they haven't lost. And this game is really important to me. Sean's favorite team? The Washington Redskins. I'll just feel so good if my team pummels his. Anyways...GO STEELERS!
Keep on rockin'.

"I sent the club a wire stating: Please accept my resignation. I don't want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member." - Groucho Marx

Green light...GO!

2004-11-22T16:19:00.000-05:00

So, I had my appointment with my specialist this morning. We were half an hour late 'cause we're Kuchtas and that's what we do. Late for everything. Always. Anyways, I didn't have my regular doctor, it was one of the other gastroenterologists (it seriously took me 2 minutes to type that) from the hospital. So, she said things were looking good but scheduled a bone mineral test for next Monday (November 29) since Prednisone decreases your bone mass. So, that should go well. Also, we found out that I have some form of arthritis that is extremely common in people with Chrohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. So that's why my joints have been killing me and I feel like an old woman. Just swell. It's nothing a little Advil won't help. The pain is bearable, so we're not really too worried about it right now. After we talked about how I'm doing and what's going on, my mom mentioned the fact that I'm planning on moving to the States and we were wondering if I could get a massive prescription so I could have enough until I find my own gastroenterologist (I copy and pasted that one) in Pittsburgh. She gave me (ready for this one?) a year's worth of all my medications!! A freakin' year's worth! Whoop whoop! What's up? I coulda kissed her for that one! Thanks, lady.
So, as far as health goes, I got the green light. Girls and boys, a time has been chosen for my move. Ready? No tears, please. Don't make this harder than it is. The big day will be December 27 or 28. My parents are going down between Christmas and New Year's. Which is perfect because that's exactly when I wanted to move. So that's it, kids. Mel's moving for good right after Christmas. Love me now, I'll be gone later!
Another thing. Since my mom's the CE Director at church, she gets some fun free stuff from different Christian companies. Well, she got these compilation CDs from a Christian publishing company and we were sampling them on the way to London. There's a song by Out of Eden on one of them that I absolutely fell in love with. Not because of the music because we all know how much I adore R&B and hip-hop. But because of the words. They're so awesome. Next time I feel like my thighs are lookin' like hams or my butts not fitting quite right in my blue jeans, I will blast this song from my stereo. It's called "Showpiece". Here's a sampling:

Hey! It seems a shame to me I've been reduced to an object of lust and hate

No way! Please understand that I refuse to be simply a height and weight

This day, somewhere we've lost the value of what a woman is supposed to be

A queen, respected and defined by her Creator,

Size 24, size 10, or size 3

You act like all I am to be is, just a sexy, sexy thing

Just a showpiece for all to see like a Bentley or your diamond ring

I know that I am more than that (don't believe the hype)

The One who made the stars and sun gave meaning to my life

Amen sistahs!!! Talk about woman power! I love it. Anyways. That's all for now.

Adios.

The Power of Laughter

2004-11-20T13:26:00.000-05:00

I believe laughter is therapeutic. It can heal. It definitely makes me feel better, anyways. Laughter truly is the best medicine. Especially a good, long laugh that comes straight from the pit of your stomach. I found a pretty great website that I'll share with you all... www.jokes.com. It's full of great jokes from different categories. Everything from "Knock, Knock" and "Yo Mama" to "Redneck" and "Blonde" jokes. It's fantastic! My personal favorite are the redneck jokes. Maybe 'cause my family makes fun of those rednecks (such as Bill Clinton and George W. - God bless 'em) so often. Anyways, I thought I'd leave a few of those jokes on here. If you know any good ones, feel free to share! I could always use a good laugh.

Q: What has 132 legs and 8 teeth?
A: The front row at a Garth Brooks concert.

Q: How many rednecks does it take to eat a possum?
A: Three. One to eat and two to watch for cars.

Q: What do you get when you line up 12 girls from Kentucky?
A: A full set of teeth.

Alright, that's all. Keep on laughing!!

How the heck do you say that?!

2004-11-18T10:24:00.000-05:00

Okay, so my dad and Jess went to Pittsburgh this past weekend. There's been a big "project" going on at my grandparents' house. It's pretty much impossible for my grandpa to walk up and down a large set of stairs. The only bathroom they have was upstairs. So, after my grandpa came home from the rehab center, my dad, aunt and uncle started working on putting a brand new bathroom on the main floor. They transformed a small closet into a nice sized bathroom that is just perfect for my grandpa. Anyways, that's why they went.
They got home on Sunday night and my dad brought in some things that made me a little happy. Sometimes when we go to the States, my dad will bring home a case of beer (yes, we drink alcohol. Lucky for us, God doesn't mind too much). But usually it's like Coors Light or something (which I absolutely hate). Now, I know people say American beers are gnarly. But those are the national, big name beers. If you want a good beer in the States, you have to try a local brew. So, there are a few local beers in the Pittsburgh area but there are two that top my list. The first is Rolling Rock and the second is (this is where my title comes in...) Yuengling (pronounced ying-ling). Yum!!! I was so happy. But a little upset, too. Of all the times I've asked him to bring home some Rolling Rock, he brings it when I'm on Prednisone. But it's okay....I'm almost done with that so in a few days, I finally get some!! Whoop whoop!! Some Rolling Rock, that is. Get your mind out of the freakin' gutter.
Anyways...Sean's getting back to California soon (I hope). I can't wait to talk to him!! But then they ship out on December 6. Not cool. :( That's sad. But hopefully (fingers crossed) he'll get his leave and come see me. Cross your fingers!
Well, that's all there is for now. It's a "fog day" today and Natalie home. Her friend Kelly came over. So I'm going to play with them now.
Keep on truckin'.

"They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself" - Andy Warhol

Time to go....

2004-11-15T14:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, now that I'm feeling better, I'm really itchin' to get outta Leamington. Especially after yesterday. Pete, Dave and Steph came by in the afternoon and we had a little conversation about growing up, I guess. Basically, we discussed my new philosophy. Pretty much, I think that we should never be satisfied with where we are in our lives. We should always want more. And I don't mean physical, tangible things. I mean who we are as people, where we are in our lives. We should always strive to become more than what we are. We should never settle and say, "You know, this is good enough for me". Yes, we all have dreams and hopes for our lives. We're all aspiring to do something, but once we've seen that dream fulfilled, we should dream for more. Never stop dreaming. This world is such a massive place and there are so many opportunities just waiting for us out there. People often use that expression "opportunity only knocks once". Well, I don't believe that opportunity knocks, I believe you have find opportunity. If you want to change your life, it's not going to happen while you just stay in your regular routine. If you want a change, you need to make it happen.
So, lately, I've been craving that change in a crazy way. Well, I've been wanting it (almost needing it) for the past few months. And I realize my life will stay the same unless I get out and do something crazy. That means jumping out of my comfort zone and taking some crazy, crazy risks. So that's what I need to do. That's what I'm going to do. But I just can't wait anymore. I know I need to be just a little more patient because of the whole health issue, but I'm starting to go a little bit crazy. I neeeeed out of here. So badly. I know there's a whole lot more out there for me. There are no opportunities for me in Leamington so I need to venture out into the big, bad world to find them. And I'm so stoked to do that!! It's going to be scary and I know it's going to be hard, but this is a journey that I absolutely can not wait to take. Seriously, I can't wait.
Anyways, a lot of my stuff has gotten unpacked since the original move date was cancelled. I've been (slowly but surely) repacking everything which has been interesting. I'm going through everything for a second time, reliving memories, laughing, crying. It's definitely interesting... So, that's what I'm going to do now. Work on repacking some of that stuff. Oh...I have tons of posters that I'm definitely taking with me to Pittsburgh (I'm a poster junkie, it's sick). Any suggestions on how to move posters without wrinkling to tearing them? Let me know. 'Cause I have no idea how I'm gonna do that. Hm...

"It matters not how long we live, but how" - www.stevedanforth.com

New Rules

2004-11-12T10:02:00.000-05:00

Okay, there's a new rule on my blog. If you "post anonymously" please leave your name or a clue as to who you are. Just so that I know, for my own peace of mind. Because there are two things in the world that I really don't like. The first one is surprises and the second is being left in the dark (literally and figuratively speaking). So, that's the new rule.
My mom and I went shopping yesterday. At the mall. It's the farthest I've travelled since I've been sick. Yay. Applause for me. Actually, we met my dad in Essex (he worked yesterday and then he left for Pittsburgh. He forgot something at home so we met him halfway to give it to him) and my mom and I were supposed to go to Windsor today but we decided last minute to go last night. Usually, I don't make "last minute" decisions. With colitis, I like when things are planned, most of the time. So the fact that I did something that spontaneous and I'm still in the healing stages is a pretty big thing. Anyways, we had a good ol' time just hanging out. It was so nice. I got a new pair of jeans and really rad sweater jacket. What color? Bright, bright rainbow colors! My reason for buying such a bright jacket? I'm moving to a huge city, and this way, I will never get lost. "Where's Mel?" "I don't know, just look for the rainbow." Whoop whoop! Good thinkin', Kuchta.
So anyways, that's all. I have another big day ahead of me. House cleaning with mom (my least favorite thing...who wants to clean my apartment for me when I move to Pittsburgh? Any volunteers?), then grocery shopping and then hopefully some Steph time.
Keep on rockin'!!

"Not a shred of evidence exists in favor of the idea that life is serious" - Brendan Gill

The Classics....

2004-11-11T09:56:00.001-05:00

Okay, I'm such a loser. As if you guys didn't already know this.... Anyways, ever since I've been back from the hospital, I've been on this weird music kick. I mean weird. I've put aside New Found Glory, 3 Days Grace, Alexisonfire... all of my greatest CD's and I've been diving into my parents' music collection. But I've realized something in the process: Old music is great! I mean really, really great. Those guys had skills back then (either that or being perma-fried produces some really great tunes). I'm talking about groups like The Band and Traffic, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles (mainly "Abbey Road"), Neil Young, great stuff like that. It's great just to sit and chill and listen to a fantastic song like "Come Together" by The Beatles or "The Weight" by The Band. It's so awesome. But it's even funnier when I listen to those tunes with my dad. Oh, those are great times! Sometimes he'll slip back into '70s mode. One night, we were sitting at the kitchen table listening to "The Best of The Band" (currently ranking number 1 on my favorite album chart). All of a sudden he blurts out, "Man, that's so heavy. Yeah, man." What? He's such a dork. But sometimes it's great because he'll start telling stories about his younger years. It's nice to sit with my dad when he's reminiscing about "the old days". He's got some good stories! Like driving through Montana Indian Country on his 1970-something Yamaha motorcycle and being warned to say on the paved road otherwise he might not ever be seen again (yikes!).
Anyways, now that I've sidetracked a whole bunch, this post is dedicated to the classics. If you ever get a chance you should just sit and listen to some good, old tunes. Probably some of the bands or artists I've listed above. It's an awesome way to chill. And drink lots of ice cold Allen's apple juice while you're doing so. It's good stuff!! So, enjoy those tunes (and juice).
You guys rock!!

"I pulled into Nazareth, was feelin' about half past dead. I just need some place where I can lay my head. 'Hey mister, can you tell me where a man might find a bed?' He just grinned and shook my hand 'No!' was all he said." - The Weight, The Band

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2004-11-09T11:10:00.000-05:00

Today is Steph's 21 birthday!! Happy Birthday to ya, Weber!!! See you Thursday, I can't wait! Whoop whoop!! I love you to bits!

The Date

2004-11-08T23:01:00.001-05:00

So, Amy and Mike have set a date for their wedding. Yeah... You all probably know how thrilled I am about it, but I'm not going to say anything because she's my best friend and I love her so I need to support her in her decisions and try to be happy for her, right? Man, I'm so selfless...
Anywho, the date is set for March 19!! Yeah, this March!!! That's only four freakin' months!!! Of course, Amy asked me forever ago to be her maid of honor and I agreed because she's my best friend, it wouldn't be right any other way. I already promised to help with planning the wedding (because if you've ever been to a "party" that Amy's "planned", you know she needs help in the planning department...she knows it too), plus there's the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. All of this - plus I'm moving to a whole new city - in four months...?? Hello? Stress city!! Ah well. She's my Amy and I love her.
Has anyone ever planned a bridal shower?!?! What do I do because I'm totally lost on this subject. I've never played such a big role in a wedding before. What do I do?!?!? Yikes. Any help you can give me, let me know......I need it!!

Perhaps the feelings that we experience when we are in love represent a normal state. Being in love shows a person who he (she) should be. - Anton Chekhov

5 Days!!

2004-11-06T13:35:00.000-05:00

Okay, seriously, I have to say something to Steph: Can anyone really be ready for you to come home? Honestly? :) Today is dedicated to Steph because I have that authority and I feel like it. I'm going to tell everyone a Steph story. It's probably one of my fondest memories from this summer. She bought a car. A beautiful car, at that. With a manual transmission. Which, I have to say, I'm so proud of her for doing. It takes a special girl to drive stick, and Steph is definitely a "special" girl. So anyways, maybe a week after buying this new car, we head to Windsor to pick up Steph's Vince and go see a punk rock show at a club. It was the funniest thing because I don't think I've ever heard someone say "I'm sorry" in such a short trip!! I don't know, you guys probably think it's not that funny, but it was such a memorable night. Probably because I had been really wanting to see one of the bands that was playing, too. I was super stoked that I got to see them with the greatest cousin. That was quite the night.
Anyways...so, I'm here to say Steph comes home in only 5 short days and everyone should be as thrilled as I am if not a little more. So excited to see you, my darling!! We have to spend an entire day together (this is gonna require a lot patience on your part, you know colitis...), and take tons and tons of pictures to fill my scrapbook. Memories of Leamington with Steph. Definitely!! I can't wait to see you!
On another note, health-wise, things are getting a lot better. The Prednisone is still making me nuts-o. I've got the shakes like mad and I'm very super-emotional. It's frightening. Other than that, things are definitely looking up.
So, that's all for today. Yay for Steph's return!! I can't wait to see you. Yay for health - it's a "good thing".

"Swing voters are more appropriately known as the 'idiot voters' because they have no set of philosophical principles. By the age of fourteen, you're either a Conservative or a Liberal if you have an IQ above a toaster." - Ann Coulter

Colitis is Not Our Friend.

2004-10-31T23:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, colitis sucks. I'm still stuck in Leamington due to a comeback of the wonderful disease. Jerk.... Well, luckily for me, this time definitely wasn't as bad as when I first got diagnosed. As some of you may remember that was at least 3 months of torture. It was horrible. So, if all goes well (and I plan on making all go well), the move will take place at the end of December-ish. I'm hoping to get there before New Year's because fireworks at the 3 rivers is like nothing you've ever seen...trust me on that one. So, as awful as colitis is, it's getting back under control and hopefully it'll go away for a long time again.
My wonderful aunt called last night and said that as long as I want to move to Pittsburgh, she'll have a job for me. God bless her...I love that woman!
Anyways...on to more amazing news: THE STEELERS BROKE THE PATRIOTS 21-WIN STREAK!! 21 is DONE! Go boys! I don't think I've ever been more excited about a football game in my life...ever. It was so great! I woke my dad up with my screaming! In a matter of 3 minutes and 17 seconds, Plaxico Burress scored to TD's! And that was only the first quarter! It was so intense and amazing. My dad and I were incredibly pleased to say the very least! Final score: 34-20. Yeah, yeah! I only wish I had a Rolling Rock to toast my boys! I'm oh so proud of them! Where's the Terrible Towel when you need one?!?
Anyways, I guess that's all. Nothing too exciting in my life. Colitis is getting better quicker than I had hoped. That means Pittsburgh comes quicker, too (I can almost smell the freedom...). Steelers won so I'm on top of the world. Oh! And Sean might be coming to see me in November before they ship out if he can get is leave! Whoop whoop!! Then I can show him off to my girls. He's a babe :)!!! I'm pretty sure he'll get approval from you... That reminds me: Pray for the soldiers. Sean's unit ships out December 6. Keep them all in your prayers. Things are really rough in the Middle East and they definitely need all the prayer they can! And pray for the people back home who are waiting for them because it is rough!!
So, that's all for today. Keep checking back...I'll keep you all posted on the colitis and Pittsburgh situations. Love you all...thanks for your prayers!!

www.ccfc.ca (Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada...check it out!!)

"Hope is never lost, only found" - Clyde W. LeFeure

Just for Jo!!

2004-10-06T16:16:00.000-04:00

Well, by Jo's request, my blog is being updated (although I just did it 2 days ago...but that's okay). So, everything's packed. It's so weird. I have nothing anymore. Well, I have stuff but it's all in boxes. Yikes. And I think it just hit me yesterday how badly I'll miss everyone (especially my mom). I was talking with Amy on the phone and I cried a little. My mom's seen me through a lot and not having her around pretty much all of the time is going to be super weird. Definitely. But I guess she's always a phone call away. And I can go visit too. And it's not like my family won't ever come down to Pittsburgh anymore, so it's a-okay.
Wow, I'm so excited about this whole experience. It's going to be something else, that's for sure. One thing I'll miss a lot about here: Tim Horton's (there's none in Pittsburgh..boo). One thing I'll never miss about here: The Big Tomato. I cringe every single time I drive by! Scariness, I tell ya. Eek. However, just for kicks, I'm gonna need a picture of myself hugging that horrible thing before I leave. Boy, oh boy. I'm such a dork. All in favor?
I'm listening to my Alexisonfire CD (www.theonlybandever.com) right now and I'm realizing that when I'm living with Gramma and Pap, I won't be able to listen to my music at ridiculous volumes anymore. What do I do? I'm going to have to buy a car with a good sound system so I can crank the tunage from time to time.
Oh yeah! Last night was my last night at work! I'm so sad about that.....(can't you just smell the sarcasm?) I'm so stoked to move away. No more midnights and ridiculous hours, I won't be working any later than 9 or 9:30 at night (which still gives me plenty of time to cruise The Strip). Yea yea! The only thing I'm worried about is that all American money is one color! It'll be a little more difficult to tell the bills apart! Ha ha! But I'm sure that will come with practice.
Well, that's all. Time to get ready for Jr. High. Whoop whoop!!

I love you all!!

Just Under 15 Days Left....

2004-10-04T16:07:00.000-04:00

Wow, I can't believe how quickly time's gone by. It seems like only yesterday that my aunt was telling me about this job she has for me, and now in only 14 days, I'm gone. It's sad, it's scary, but I'm so excited. Actually, I'm excited about a lot of things.
Sean called my house the other day but I was working (damn...). So he talked to my mom for a bit. He's going to try to get some time off before they ship out (December 6) so he can come and see me. That makes me so happy. We haven't talked for such a long time and I was starting to wonder what was going on. Turns out there was just some craziness going on with his training. But he's been thinking about me *whoop whoop*!! That makes me so happy. So, hopefully (cross your fingers), he'll be coming to see me in about a month in Pittsburgh. But I'll be bringing him back to Leamington so my parents can see him before he goes, too. I can't wait. I like the boy. I like him a lot :)............
So, anyways, I've discovered the one thing I will never miss about my life here: Living in a duplex!!! The neighbors had their music blasting and we could hear it over here this afternoon. So, my mom got a little frustrated and pounded on the wall. After that didn't work, she asked if I could do something. I asked her if she was sure and I got out my Alexisonfire CD (ah! My ears are on fire...), turned the speaker towards the wall, told my mom to go into the other room and cranked the volume. Needless to say, their music was somewhat quieter afterwards. And my mom was a little relieved that I was leaving and taking my music elsewhere. Ha ha..
Anyways, I'm in the process of looking for a car in the Pittsburgh area. I have two prospects. Both are very affordable for my situation. First, we have a 1995 Chevy Blazer 4x4, 2 door (which looks so hot). It's very nice, cheap insurance, doesn't cost too much. Then we have a 1998 2 door Pontiac Sunfire with a spoiler. Also very hot, but this is probably the more realistic one (easier for Pap to get into, better gas mileage, etc., etc.). So we'll see.
Anyways, off it's off to finish the packing. I've achieved quite a bit today, but there's still a little left to do. Then it's dinner time. Mom's making meatloaf! Whoop whoop!!

"This is a .44-caliber love letter straight from my heart..."
www.theonlybandever.com

Had the Best Time of my Life With(out) You...

2004-09-30T10:59:00.000-04:00

So, I've been packing like crazy, making arrangements, all of that fun stuff. But I don't think it's really hit me quite yet. I'm moving. I think maybe it'll hit me while I'm in Pitt for Thanksgiving, but who knows? This is so weird. I always knew I was supposed to go there and I wanted it more than anything in the whole world, but I never imagined it would happen so soon - and so suddenly, for that matter! This is absolutely nuts. What am I thinking???
But packing has also forced me to look back at my time in Leamington. Everything that I touch has a memory, a story behind it. And I need to thank all of you Leamingtonites for those memories!! It's been such a blast!
I was asked last night why I was doing this. I simply said, "Because it's something I've always wanted". That answer wasn't good enough. So I thought for a second and then came back with, "It's time for Mel Kuchta to become her own person. I need to let myself become someone, and I don't think I can do that here. It's time for me to make a name for myself - give myself and identity - aside from my parents'." So, that's what I'm doing. I'm making a life for myself. And I can't wait for everyone to see what becomes of this...heck, I can't wait to see what becomes of this!!

"Sparks fly, I hit the ground running; Thumb in the air on the side of the road; Good work.. never comes easy; Hey Driver to the top of the world..."

It's Time

2004-09-28T13:27:00.000-04:00

Well, in about three weeks, I'm out of here. The Leamington chapter in my book will be closed. Time to turn a page and start writing a whole new chapter. New setting, new characters, the works. I'm very excited but incredibly nervous at the same time. I know this will work out. I will make it work. But even so, I'm nervous.
There are so many different things that I'm feeling right now. I'm scared because it was so sudden and I'm moving from this tiny, little town to a massive city, it's almost overwhelming. I'm nervous because I want to make things work so badly but I know it won't be easy. I'm sad because I'm leaving my amazing friends, my home of 18 years, everything that I know. But I'm also so, so excited because I get to start this amazing journey in my life that I've been wanting to take for a long time now.
I know everything's going to work out and be okay because I've got the Big Guy on my side, but still, I worry ('cause I worry about everything). I'm really excited, but guys, I'm going to miss you all so, so, so much. We'll keep in touch like crazy. I'm coming back here for Christmas so we'll see each other then. And you guys can come down to see me! I'm so excited.
I'll keep you all posted on the "going away" shindig. It'll be soon since I don't have a lot of time to do this.
I love you all.