Excuses, Excuses

Today was one of those days when you should just stay in bed.  I left home early because I needed to stop and pick up juices for my class's end-of-the-year celebration.  I always listen to the radio for traffic news.  The traffic report said that the exit above the one I use was shut down due to a truck fire (hazardous materials) with the interstate being closed just below the exit.

That exit is three miles north of mine, so I thought it would be alright.  Afterall, it was 5:30 a.m.  The next traffic report said the truck fire had started at 3:00 a.m., and the traffic had backed way up the interstate.  The following report advised people on the interstate to take certain exits and use a side street up to my exit to get back on the interstate.

Knowing the patterns and roads as well as I do, I still felt confident I wouldn't experience much delay.  When I got to the exit ramp, it turns out that my exit was the one actually closed!  It took me an additional 45 minutes to get to work ... only I didn't get to work.  (BTW, about halfway there the traffic reporter announced that the exit I use was ALSO being affected!)  My car started acting up, and I had to take it to the garage next to the school.  All this time I was sweating bullits because I have perfect attendance this year (which is a remarkable feat for an elementary school teacher, since we come in contact with every germ known to science).  Fortunately, a friend came and picked me up and we got to school on time.  Only 3 more days to go!

This morning I got another call from my ex-husband who wants me to do him "a favor" because he is re-financing his home (the home I helped him get, decorated, and helped pay for).  The same man whose girlfriend moved in after I moved out and told him he could no longer have contact with me, including helping me in any way.  All of this, after we had a very amiable divorce since he told me that he would always be there to help me in any way he could.  Now HE needs a favor.  Get in line buster!

It turned out the new battery installed in my car had gone bad.  Fortunately, the repair was free.  However, my brakes were gone (which had been serviced last summer).  I knew there were problems, but the mechanic who serviced them swore it was my imagination and refused to do anything about it. So, I let my regular mechanic take care of it to the tune of $450.

When it was time for my pizza party, I found out that the pizza delivery guy was running 2 hours late.  So my pizza party was delayed until the end of the day. 

I had to get my car tag renewed after work.  The line was horrible.  Then, when I got home, we had a storm and my satellite TV went out.  Naturally, tonight is the season finale of American Idol - the only show I watch during the week.

So, I play with dolls.  That's one of  my excuses for enjoying this hobby - a day like today.  I can take the things I purchased at the doll show on Saturday and redress my girls.  I can escape my frustrations and be taken away from it all.  It relaxes me and comforts me. 

First up is my favorite Barbie wearing the Frank Sinatra outfit I got.

I really think she looks great in this.   (I tried it on Victoire first, but the shirt wouldn't snap!   Oh, those well-developed 40 DD's!)   I took the Frank Sinatra pivotal body and gave it to a Grace Kelly doll.  (Photos to follow).   The head will be put on another body and sold.

Since Exaggeration is my current favorite doll, she had to get something, too.  I decided to see how she would look in the Vintage American Airlines Stewardess outfit.

I really don't think there is anything that she cannot wear successfully.  I simply love this doll.  Especially those big, bee sting, silicone-enhanced lips!  

A little redressing, a little photography, a little blogging.  A whole lotta rest and fun.  I think I will be able to sleep tonight.  After such a day, I dare anyone to question why I play with dolls.  I hope this hobby brings you the joy, pleasure, and relaxation I experience!