You know it is going to be a long week when it is Monday, and you already have 26 hours on your timesheet.

I'm still at work, so I will write more when time permits.

I love deadlines!

I'm sitting here on the couch shivering and whining because I STILL have cramps and debating about whether or not I should go into the office to deal with the little surprise I just got on the proposal that is due tomorrow. On the plus side, I'd probably get more work done in the office than I will here, on the minus, it is colder in the office than it is here. On the plus side, I wouldn't feel compelled to watch the guys from Nova Scotia rapping in Cajun French that are currently on the PBS station here, on the minus side, my cramps are worse when I'm sitting up than when I'm lying down. On the minus side, I really, really don't want to go anwhere - I just want to take a nap. Minus wins - I'm staying home.

Remind me not to let seven months go by with something not happening that should happen every month. That's a really, really bad idea.

I've turned of the Cajun Canadian rappers and I'm now watching a slightly creepy guy trying to sell a knock-off Bowflex machine. Did you know that lifting weights apparently makes your face skinny? According to this guy it does.

Oh, and I've determined that I will never be skinny. And that's OK. Being a size 0 or smaller is overrated. Though I do envy the metabolism those women must have.

OK. I'm going to switch back to the Cajun rappers and take a brief nap. Adeiu, all.

Today at work I watched X-Men III and marked my fabric squares. It was a little slow. In fact, I was the only one in. I wouldn't have been there either, but somebody had to be, and I'm low person on the totem pole. But a lot of the state governments we deal with were closed, and who knows what was going on with the feds. And my guess is that the capture managers for the proposals I'm currently supporting were out today as well. Sigh.

I bought my dress for the Christmas party. I had to buy it online because they didn't have it in the store. I hope it fits OK. I'm not worried about the cut, because it is typical of things I usually buy and look good in. I just don't know how this designer's sizes run.

I bought earrings on Wednesday as well. Now all I have to find are shoes, a purse, and maybe a necklace. I may just wear my good fake pearls, though.

I found the exact shoes I want on line, but first of all, they are $40, and second, I'm a little leery of buying shoes online.

Only 6 more days left of NaBloPoMo. I'm glad of that. I enjoy blogging, but I don't think I can make it a daily habit. But I think I can make writing a daily habit. And I shall do that.

Tomorrow, I plan to try to find shoes and go to the movies.

It is November 17th. And I am burned out on daily blogging.

Oh, I'll not be giving up. I made a commitment, and I'll see it through. But my life is just too dull to account for a daily entry.

Actually, that's not true. It's just that the interesting stuff happens at work, and I can't write about that. It's hard to work for a government contractor.

sigh.

I broke two nails today. At this rate, I won't be able to get that manicure for the Christmas party.

sigh.

I worked until 1 a.m. last night after not sleeping at all the night before. Forgive me if I am a little punchy.

I did meet my boss's boyfriend, though. He's a cutie. And very domestic. He has a dog and a half (one of them belongs to my boss, but lives at his house - more on that in a minute), both of whom are adorable. I ate black bean soup so I wouldn't offend him, even though I hate beans.

My boss has another dog, who we took back to the office. She is a pit bull, which is why his other dog lives with his boyfriend. She and I bonded last night. She is just so sweet. She wouldn't leave my side last night, and when I finally went home, my boss said she sat by the door and looked for me to come back and whined.

Sigh. I love dogs, but I'm allergic to them. I ended up with hives last night and took Benadryl, which knocked me out totally. I slept through my alarm going off for two hours this morning.

I'm going to sleep now. I still feel like I got hit with a truck.

I Just Want to Say...

...that people who have served our country bravely in the military should never be required to write anything, ever. They've served their time. They deserve a break.

So do those of us who have to edit their writing.

That is all.

Today has been really, really slow again. So I have spent my time looking at recipes on Cooks.com. I've decided I need to cook more.

Oh, and there is great sorrow in the land in my office. The company Christmas party is limited to two free drinks. I don't drink (much), so that's fine by me, but many, many folks are more than a little upset.

I don't plan to stay long anyway, so I have no cause to complain. Parties just aren't my thing. So yes, I am going to spend over $100 on the fancy purple dress to spend an hour at this shindig. Yes, I am an idiot.

Did I mention that I was bored?

If not, this should confirm it.

If You Were Born in 2893...

Your Name Would Be: Emi Iara And You Would Be: A Time Traveler

If You Were Born in 2893

Apparently, normal names are going to disappear in 800 years.

You Are Homer Simpson

You're just an ordinary, all-American working Joe... With a special fondness for pork rinds and donuts. You will be remembered for: your little "isms" and philosophies on life Your life philosophy: "Weaseling out of things is important to learn. It's what separates us from the animals ... except the weasel."

The Simpsons Personality Test

Uh...I don't think so.

Your Career Personality: Independent, Insightful, and Ingenious

Your Ideal Careers: Architect Artist Business strategist College professor Computer programmer Mathematician Neurologist Philosopher Photographer Video game developer

The Quick and Dirty Career Test

I knew I missed my calling - I should have become a freelance philosopher. There is such a call for them, and they are so well paid. Actually, I barely passed either of the philosophy classes I took in college. I had craptastic profs for both of them.

You Are 64% Shy

You are a very shy person, and it has started to impact your life in a negative way. If you can avoid human contact, you usually do. And as a result, you miss out on a lot.

How Shy Are You?

Only 62%? I was expecting higher

You Are 92% Lady

No doubt about it, you are a lady with impeccable etiquette You know how to put others at ease, even if their manners aren't the greatest.

Are You A Lady?

I suppose I shouldn't admit that I drink pop right from the 2 liter bottle sometimes and that I tend to forget to cross my legs, and that I belch in public.

You Are 50% Weird

Normal enough to know that you're weird... But too damn weird to do anything about it!

How Weird Are You?

This one I can go with...

Your Hillbilly Name Is...

Lil' Pearl Hogg

Hillbilly Name Generator

Who knew? My grandmother's middle name was Pearl, though. Perhaps it was meant to be.

You Belong in 1973

If you scored... 1950 - 1959: You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a little innocent. See you at the drive in! 1960 - 1969: You are a free spirit with a huge heart. Love, peace, and happiness rule - oh, and drugs too. 1970 - 1979: Bold and brash, you take life by the horns. Whether you're partying or protesting, you give it your all! 1980 - 1989: Wild, over the top, and just a little bit cheesy. You're colorful at night - and successful during the day. 1990 - 1999: With you anything goes! You're grunge one day, ghetto fabulous the next. It's all good!

What Year Do You Belong In?

Sure. 1973. I was 2. I suppose I belong there if all I'll be doing is learning to feed myself and go potty.

Your Monster Profile

Iron Beheader You Feast On: Lasanga You Lurk Around In: The Ocean You Especially Like to Torment: Dentists

What's Your Monster Name?

I like this one. Surfing dentists of the world, watch out!

Your Animal Personality

Your Power Animal: Deer Animal You Were in a Past Life: Panda You are a fun-seeker - an adventurous, risk-taker. While you are spontaneous, you are not very rational.

The Animal Personality Test

Can't figure out why there is a picture of a squid when the only animals mentioned are deer and panda.

You Are a Conservative Democrat

Frankly, the way most other Democrats behave embarasses you greatly. You pride yourself on a high level of morals, and you have a good grasp on right and wrong. It's likely you think America needs to get back to its conservative, Juedo-Christian values. Why aren't you a Republican then? Because you believe the goverment helps more than hurts.

What's Your Political Persuasion?

Partially true, but I think I'm a little further left than this. Actually, I think I'm a lot further left than this.

You Belong in Brooklyn

Down to earth and hard working, you're a true New Yorker. And although you may be turning into a yuppie, you never forget your roots.

Where Should Your Inner New Yorker Live?

Ok. I think I have relatives there. Or maybe it's the Bronx.

You are a Believer

You believe in God and your chosen religion. Whether you're Christian, Muslim, Jewish, or Hindu.. Your convictions are strong and unwavering. You think your religion is the one true way, for everyone.

What's Your Religious Philosophy?

True, except for the last two sentences.

You Should Learn Swedish

Fantastisk! You're laid back about learning a language - and about life in general. Peaceful, beautiful Sweden is ideal for you... And you won't even have to speak perfect Swedish to get around!

What Language Should You Learn?

Groovy! Anyone reading this know Swedish?

You Are Rowlf the Dog

Mellow and serious, you enjoy time alone cultivating your talents. You're a cool dog, and you always present a relaxed vibe. A talented pianist, you can play almost anything - especially songs by Beethoven. "My bark is worse than my bite, and my piano playing beats 'em both."

The Muppet Personality Test

I think I did this one before. I love Rowlf.

You Belong in San Francisco

You crave an eclectic, urban environment. You're half California, half NYC. You're open minded, tolerant, and secretly think you're the best. People may dismiss you as a hippie, but you're also progressive, interesting, and rich!

Where Does Your Inner Californian Belong?

Never been, but I hear it's nice. I'd rather go to San Diego, though.

Your Band Name is:

The Free Range Yankees

Band Name Generator

Eh. I can take it or leave it.

You May Be a Bit Dependent...

You're more than a little preoccupied with being abandoned. You need a lot of support in your life, at all times. It's difficult for you to survive on your own... And you don't reallly think you ever could.

What Personality Disorder Are You?

Not so much. I think it said this because I said I don't like to go to parties and stuff alone - but who does?

Your SAT Score of 1320 Means:

You Scored Higher Than Howard Stern You Scored Higher Than George W. Bush You Scored Lower Than Al Gore You Scored Lower Than David Duchovny You Scored Lower Than Natalie Portman You Scored Lower Than Bill Gates Your IQ is most likely in the 130-140 range Equivalent ACT score: 30 Schools that Fit Your SAT Score: College of William and Mary New York University Boston College United States Naval Academy University of California, Berkeley

What Does Your SAT Score Mean?

I'm glad I at least scored higher than W. David Duchovny rocks.

You Are Bert

Extremely serious and a little eccentric, people find you loveable - even if you don't love them! You are usually feeling: Logical - you rarely let your emotions rule you You are famous for: Being smart, a total neat freak, and maybe just a little evil How you life your life: With passion, even if your odd passions (like bottle caps and pigeons) are baffling to others

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

I like Bert. I, however, am not a neat freak, as anyone who knew me in college can attest.

You Have Your Sarcastic Moments

While you're not sarcastic at all times, you definitely have a cynical edge. In your opinion, not all people are annoying. Some are dead! And although you do have your genuine moments, you can't help getting your zingers in. Some people might be a little hurt by your sarcasm, but it's more likely they think you're hilarious.

How Sarcastic Are You?

I got yelled at by a former house director for being too sarcastic. Maybe she should have read this.

Your Aura is Blue

Spiritual and calm, you tend to live a quiet but enriching life. You are very giving of yourself. And it's hard for you to let go of relationships. The purpose of your life: showing love to other people Famous blues include: Angelina Jolie, the Dali Lama, Oprah Careers for you to try: Psychic, Peace Corps Volunteer, Counselor

What Color Is Your Aura?

Funny, I guessed this before it came up. I don't know how I feel about being lumped in with Angelina Jolie and Oprah, though. And I don't know the last time I saw a help wanted ad for a psychic.

You Should Be a Science Fiction Writer

Your ideas are very strange, and people often wonder what planet you're from. And while you may have some problems being "normal," you'll have no problems writing sci-fi. Whether it's epic films, important novels, or vivid comics... Your own little universe could leave an important mark on the world!

What Type of Writer Should You Be?

I've tried writing science fiction. It always sounds like some kind of weird cross between Masterpiece Theatre and Pigs in Space.

You Are a Chihuahua Puppy

Small, high strung, and loyal. You do best in the city with a adults - young kids could crush you!

What Breed of Puppy Are You?

OK. I can deal with that.

Your Christmas is Most Like: A Christmas Story

Loving, fun, and totally crazy. Don't shoot your eye out!

What Movie Is Your Christmas Most Like?

One of my all time favorite movies!

You Are 30% Left Brained, 70% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning. Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others. If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic. Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet. The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility. Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way. If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art. Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

Yeah, this sounds about right.

The Movie Of Your Life Is A Cult Classic

Quirky, offbeat, and even a little campy - your life appeals to a select few. But if someone's obsessed with you, look out! Your fans are downright freaky. Your best movie matches: Office Space, Showgirls, The Big Lebowski

If Your Life Was a Movie, What Genre Would It Be?

Also sounds right, except for Showgirls.

You Are 0% Extrovert, 100% Introvert

You avoid people at all costs You aren't one for social interaction And you limit your interaction to a select few Thank God for self checkout!

Are You An Extrovert or An Introvert?

Are you shocked? I come out off the scale on Introversion on Myers-Briggs

You Are Expressionism

Moody, emotional, and even a bit angsty... you certainly know how to express your emotions. At times, you tend to lack perspective on your life, probably as a result of looking inward too much. This introspection does give you a flair for the dramatic. And it's even maybe made you cultivate some artistic talents! You have a true artist's temperament... which is a blessing and a curse.

What Art Movement Are You?

I would have thought Impressionism, but whatever...

Your Boobies' Names Are...

Siegfried and Roy

Boobie Name Generator

This is horribly disturbing. No other words.

You Should Rule Jupiter

Huge and hot, Jupiter is a quickly turning planet with short days and intense gravity. You are perfect to rule Jupiter, because you are both dominant and kind. You have great strength and confidence, but you never abuse your power. You are always right. Even if you make mistakes, you compensate for them... before anyone knows it. Headstrong and ambitious, you always have a goal in mind. You are optimistic and believe thing things will always work out.

What Planet Should You Rule?

Groovy. I always wanted to rule a gas giant.

You Are Boston

Both modern and old school, you never forget your roots. Well educated and a little snobby, you demand the best. And quite frankly, you think you are the best. Famous people from the Boston area: Conan O'Brien, Ben Affleck, New Kids on the Block

What American City Are You?

I like this one. Boston is high on my list of places I want to go someday.

Your Scholastic Strength Is Deep Thinking

You aren't afraid to delve head first into a difficult subject, with mastery as your goal. You are talented at adapting, motivating others, managing resources, and analyzing risk. You should major in: Philosophy Music Theology Art History Foreign language

What Should You Major In?

Not much of a shock that I am a thinker. Maybe seeing theology in there is a sign...

You Are Greg Brady

Outta sight! Suave and all American, you tend to be clean cut and upstanding. You're friendly with most people and a huge flirt (sometimes even with family members!).

What Brady Are You?

If they say so. I always fancied myself more of a Peter or Jan, though.

Your Dominant Intelligence is Linguistic Intelligence

You are excellent with words and language. You explain yourself well. An elegant speaker, you can converse well with anyone on the fly. You are also good at remembering information and convicing someone of your point of view. A master of creative phrasing and unique words, you enjoy expanding your vocabulary. You would make a fantastic poet, journalist, writer, teacher, lawyer, politician, or translator.

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

Why, you could knock me over with a feather! (I think I'm more than 50% sarcastic)

You Have Good Karma

In general, you like to do the right thing when it comes to others. Your caring personality really shines through. Sure, you have your moments of weakness - and occasionally act out. But, all in all, you're karma is good... even with those few dark spots.

How's Your Karma?

I'll remember this if I ever change my name to Earl.

You Are 60% "Average American"

You are average because you donate to charity. You are not average since you rate your appearance 4 or lower.

How "Average American" Are You?

These are the most bizarre criteria I have ever seen.

You Belong in Amsterdam

A little old fashioned, a little modern - you're the best of both worlds. And so is Amsterdam. Whether you want to be a squatter graffiti artist or a great novelist, Amsterdam has all that you want in Europe (in one small city).

What European City Do You Belong In?

Cool! Amsterdam is near the top of my list of European cities to visit. And not because I am into pot or prostitution. I'm not, you know.

Your English Skills:

Grammar: 100% Spelling: 100% Vocabulary: 100% Punctuation: 80%

Does Your English Cut the Mustard?

I knew that if I missed anything it would be on punctuation. I know the one I missed, too, and I disagree.

I hope I have work to do tomorrow. I can't do another day of this.