Holy Mackerel
It's been a month since the last post! Things have been good: busy at work, three different Thanksgiving feasts, and dealing with the onslaught of the frigid temperatures. Oh, we also got to meet Jackie and Brian's baby, Ethan! He is quite a little cutie and I captured a lervly photo of he and Todd that I need to post once I get to downloading it.
It was seven degrees this morning, which was great. I lost my mittens, but I have Todd's gloves which may be oversized but are effective. I made the mistake one morning of going out without gloves and trying to scrape down my windshield and then I was disabused immediately of the notion that that might be a good idea.
Last night we watched "Wall-E" and I can't stop thinking about how much I loved that movie. I loved that it was a little bit dark and didn't try to kowtow to standard Disney audiences. I loved that Wall-E added a vowel to EVE's name so he produced it like: "Eve-ah" which reminds me of some of the toddlers that I see. I cried a lot at the end. It didn't pass me by that Wall-E looked a lot like that robot in "Short Circuit," though.
We also watched "The Fall of Fuijimori" the other day on Netflix online (thanks, Charles!). It was amazing: I can't believe that all of these huge happenings (and absurdity) was happening in Peru for a decade and I had no idea! Scratch that...I can believe it. Both because I have my head in my ass and that it probably was not detailed thoroughly in our media outlets.
Speaking of toddlers that I see (a couple of paragraphs back), one of them is built like a little football player and I adore him. Seriously, he has no ankles. Last session he reached his arms out to me for a cuddle, so we cuddled while he identified his facial features for me (he got all the main ones). That was a recognized moment of goodness and definitely one of the many benefits to working with two year olds: hugs and kisses.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Thrilled.
I am still buoyant over the election results. We had a little election party last night (with America/Obama themed desserts) and lots of celebrating was done. The house across the street blasted "We Are the Champions" after the election was called. Go America for coming through with this one.
In honor, I have to post one of my favorite Obama web sites called Yes We Can (Hold Babies)
which I hope is not going to end with the end of this election. I think that the web site was inspired by the picture above, and really...how can you beat it?
I am still buoyant over the election results. We had a little election party last night (with America/Obama themed desserts) and lots of celebrating was done. The house across the street blasted "We Are the Champions" after the election was called. Go America for coming through with this one.
In honor, I have to post one of my favorite Obama web sites called Yes We Can (Hold Babies)
which I hope is not going to end with the end of this election. I think that the web site was inspired by the picture above, and really...how can you beat it?
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Buoyed
I loved watching Colin Powell on "Meet the Press" this morning. He sounded so logical and like he cut through the bullshit, and that was refreshing. I was especially pleased that he called certain GOP people out for implying that Obama = Muslim, therefore = evil. Bullshit.
Transcript from what I especially liked from Powell's comments:
I'm also troubled by, not what Senator McCain says, but what members of the party say. And it is permitted to be said such things as, "Well, you know that Mr. Obama is a Muslim." Well, the correct answer is, he is not a Muslim, he's a Christian. He's always been a Christian. But the really right answer is, what if he is? Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country? The answer's no, that's not America. Is there something wrong with some seven-year-old Muslim-American kid believing that he or she could be president? Yet, I have heard senior members of my own party drop the suggestion, "He's a Muslim and he might be associated terrorists." This is not the way we should be doing it in America.
I loved watching Colin Powell on "Meet the Press" this morning. He sounded so logical and like he cut through the bullshit, and that was refreshing. I was especially pleased that he called certain GOP people out for implying that Obama = Muslim, therefore = evil. Bullshit.
Transcript from what I especially liked from Powell's comments:
I'm also troubled by, not what Senator McCain says, but what members of the party say. And it is permitted to be said such things as, "Well, you know that Mr. Obama is a Muslim." Well, the correct answer is, he is not a Muslim, he's a Christian. He's always been a Christian. But the really right answer is, what if he is? Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country? The answer's no, that's not America. Is there something wrong with some seven-year-old Muslim-American kid believing that he or she could be president? Yet, I have heard senior members of my own party drop the suggestion, "He's a Muslim and he might be associated terrorists." This is not the way we should be doing it in America.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Friday, October 03, 2008
It's Banned Book Week!
Celebrate by reading one.
The most challenged books of the 21st century look heavy on the young readers' stuff: Harry Potter, Judy Blume, The Chocolate War, Maya Angelou, and apparently something called the 'Captain Underpants Series.' Give me a break.
Celebrate by reading one.
The most challenged books of the 21st century look heavy on the young readers' stuff: Harry Potter, Judy Blume, The Chocolate War, Maya Angelou, and apparently something called the 'Captain Underpants Series.' Give me a break.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Pulchritudinous stuff
So much to talk about! First of all, last weekend I flew back to VA to help host our Anne's bridal shower, along with the rest of the bridal party, Kathy and Christie. It seemed to go off wonderfully, and I have lots of pictures to share and a few to post. I just need to get around to downloading them from the camera. We also got to meet Christie's baby, Emmet, and he is nothing short of beautiful. He's perfectly shaped and sweetly mellow and has a splendid little face.
The evening after the bridal shower a few of us had dinner at a local place in downtown Herndon, VA. I commented to my parents afterward that within 10 minutes of driving around Herndon I saw TWO McCain/Palin stickers. It surprised me since I seriously have not noticed ONE of these car stickers since the campaign started. This is probably because I have been nestled in Obama-land in Chicago, and I'm also not super observant, but it actually startled me a little to see two so close together. Yoicks. I'm glad that I have friends in Virginia who will represent, but this is when I wish I still had a VA vote.
I'm also dying watching the GOP spin machine trying to do damage control over the Palin/Couric interviews: it's priceless. I laughed out loud listening to McCain on NPR yesterday morning trying to say that he has consulted Palin over foreign relations issues "many times in the past." Please stop insulting the American people. The truth is that I would respect McCain's side a lot more if he didn't try to lie and spin. Back to the Couric interview, though: I was a little surprised that she didn't come up with any answers for newspapers and magazines she read regularly. I suppose it's a little delicate since you do want to present yourself as balanced, and not biased in any way (which what you read can say that about you), but not coming up with *anything*? Weird.
I'm psyched for the debate tonight.
In other news, I have one student who I see who has high functioning autism. She's earnest and wide-eyed and quite verbal. Last Tuesday, she looked up at me from her worksheet and stated: "You're pulchritudinous!" The only reason I know what that word means is because I got it wrong on the GRE. This is also the same girl who I observed with some other special needs kids. The special ed teacher asked them to name their favorite animals. Other kids named: dog, cat, horse. She named: tapir.
So much to talk about! First of all, last weekend I flew back to VA to help host our Anne's bridal shower, along with the rest of the bridal party, Kathy and Christie. It seemed to go off wonderfully, and I have lots of pictures to share and a few to post. I just need to get around to downloading them from the camera. We also got to meet Christie's baby, Emmet, and he is nothing short of beautiful. He's perfectly shaped and sweetly mellow and has a splendid little face.
The evening after the bridal shower a few of us had dinner at a local place in downtown Herndon, VA. I commented to my parents afterward that within 10 minutes of driving around Herndon I saw TWO McCain/Palin stickers. It surprised me since I seriously have not noticed ONE of these car stickers since the campaign started. This is probably because I have been nestled in Obama-land in Chicago, and I'm also not super observant, but it actually startled me a little to see two so close together. Yoicks. I'm glad that I have friends in Virginia who will represent, but this is when I wish I still had a VA vote.
I'm also dying watching the GOP spin machine trying to do damage control over the Palin/Couric interviews: it's priceless. I laughed out loud listening to McCain on NPR yesterday morning trying to say that he has consulted Palin over foreign relations issues "many times in the past." Please stop insulting the American people. The truth is that I would respect McCain's side a lot more if he didn't try to lie and spin. Back to the Couric interview, though: I was a little surprised that she didn't come up with any answers for newspapers and magazines she read regularly. I suppose it's a little delicate since you do want to present yourself as balanced, and not biased in any way (which what you read can say that about you), but not coming up with *anything*? Weird.
I'm psyched for the debate tonight.
In other news, I have one student who I see who has high functioning autism. She's earnest and wide-eyed and quite verbal. Last Tuesday, she looked up at me from her worksheet and stated: "You're pulchritudinous!" The only reason I know what that word means is because I got it wrong on the GRE. This is also the same girl who I observed with some other special needs kids. The special ed teacher asked them to name their favorite animals. Other kids named: dog, cat, horse. She named: tapir.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Lots of viewing ahead
One particularly awesome wedding present we received (Thanks, CC!) is a contraption that allows viewing of Netflix movies directly to your tv. Last night we hooked it up and watched movies and shows for hours. Seriously, this is an excellent machine as there's a fair selection of stuff available, there's no limit to what you can watch, and the picture is good.
One of the movies we watched was the documentary "Please Vote for Me." It's an hour long documentary about an election for class monitor in a Chinese school room and is is one of the best movies I have seen all year. It's funny, chock full of cute kids, and is relevant to our election year this year as there's tons of mud slinging and maneuvering to obtain votes.
We also watched "Heavy Metal in Baghdad," which was good and sad. I also think it would be an excellent movie to show American teenagers to help them get one snapshot of their peers in Iraq.
In other news, yesterday was very productive besides all of the movie watching. We painted the guest room and it's pretty much finished besides a couple of touch ups. It's a spring green color and I like it very much.
One particularly awesome wedding present we received (Thanks, CC!) is a contraption that allows viewing of Netflix movies directly to your tv. Last night we hooked it up and watched movies and shows for hours. Seriously, this is an excellent machine as there's a fair selection of stuff available, there's no limit to what you can watch, and the picture is good.
One of the movies we watched was the documentary "Please Vote for Me." It's an hour long documentary about an election for class monitor in a Chinese school room and is is one of the best movies I have seen all year. It's funny, chock full of cute kids, and is relevant to our election year this year as there's tons of mud slinging and maneuvering to obtain votes.
We also watched "Heavy Metal in Baghdad," which was good and sad. I also think it would be an excellent movie to show American teenagers to help them get one snapshot of their peers in Iraq.
In other news, yesterday was very productive besides all of the movie watching. We painted the guest room and it's pretty much finished besides a couple of touch ups. It's a spring green color and I like it very much.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Late summer
It's the last week of summer, and I cannot describe to you how fantastic the weather in Chicago is this week. Today we had a fire drill, and I was ready to drop everything and flee work so I could frolic in the streets. Or just lie on the lake front. It's sunny and mid-70s and breezy and it makes one want to weep at the beauty.
Anyway, last night we went to go see one of Todd's friends perform stand up in Berwyn. Where is Berwyn, you might ask? I don't really know myself, but it's just on the edge of Chicago. The standup was in this makeshift stage in the corner of a crowded, somewhat gritty, and wholly charming bar which hosts a weekly open mic. Adam, who is well practiced in stand up, was one of the regulars and it was clear, as he had the right rhythm for the jokes and the deliveries were right on. There were a few other good ones, but for the most part it was a glaringly painful experience. You watch these guys *struggle* up there, telling mind-blowingly terrible jokes, and literally sweating. I mean, I felt for those guys because God knows I wouldn't have the balls to do this, but I also have zero urge to stand there and do bits in front of strangers. One guy, who was up there for the first time, was so nervous that he was having breathing problems. He also told a joke about black people hating to swim. The last guy, who was in his 50s, wore a muscle shirt and a greased pompadour and spat out a string of totally gross, nasty, and mostly bad jokes that made me shudder. Oy.
Beyond that, life's just been busy with work and putting away wedding gifts, and vacuuming cat hair from the floor and carpet.
It's the last week of summer, and I cannot describe to you how fantastic the weather in Chicago is this week. Today we had a fire drill, and I was ready to drop everything and flee work so I could frolic in the streets. Or just lie on the lake front. It's sunny and mid-70s and breezy and it makes one want to weep at the beauty.
Anyway, last night we went to go see one of Todd's friends perform stand up in Berwyn. Where is Berwyn, you might ask? I don't really know myself, but it's just on the edge of Chicago. The standup was in this makeshift stage in the corner of a crowded, somewhat gritty, and wholly charming bar which hosts a weekly open mic. Adam, who is well practiced in stand up, was one of the regulars and it was clear, as he had the right rhythm for the jokes and the deliveries were right on. There were a few other good ones, but for the most part it was a glaringly painful experience. You watch these guys *struggle* up there, telling mind-blowingly terrible jokes, and literally sweating. I mean, I felt for those guys because God knows I wouldn't have the balls to do this, but I also have zero urge to stand there and do bits in front of strangers. One guy, who was up there for the first time, was so nervous that he was having breathing problems. He also told a joke about black people hating to swim. The last guy, who was in his 50s, wore a muscle shirt and a greased pompadour and spat out a string of totally gross, nasty, and mostly bad jokes that made me shudder. Oy.
Beyond that, life's just been busy with work and putting away wedding gifts, and vacuuming cat hair from the floor and carpet.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Our awesome wedding photographer, Matt Veldhuis, posted some initial pictures from the wedding on his blog. Check them out!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
La Sagrada FamiliaOne of the Gaudi sites we've visited that is definitely one of the most dramatic. Unfortunately, a lot of the sites we've visited appear to be under some kind of construction. We contemplated going inside, but decided to just take photos outside since there were seriously like a katrillion tourists buzzing around.
Barcelona!
It's the late afternoon/evening here in Barcelona. We have one full day left, and it's gone quickly. Our days have revolved around doing maybe one tourist site a day, then stopping somewhere and getting a snack and a drink, then napping for a few hours (!), then a late dinner. I love Spain, partly because they also love: bread, wine, olive oil, and relaxing. The food is rich enough that my stomach is kind of wrecked this afternoon, but I will suffer through! I think our favorite is the pan amb tomates (don't quote me on the language), which is basically thick sliced fresh bread, amply brushed with olive oil, and then topped with fresh tomato guts. It's yummy, and can accompany every meal. Besides the food, Barcelona is hands down beautiful. Today we did a walking tour throuh the old gothic area/roman area and the lanes and buildings are breathtaking. There's nothing like it Stateside. I love how you peer down a skinny lane and in the background you see a mountain or a building or a church steeple peeking out above, so photogenically.
It's the late afternoon/evening here in Barcelona. We have one full day left, and it's gone quickly. Our days have revolved around doing maybe one tourist site a day, then stopping somewhere and getting a snack and a drink, then napping for a few hours (!), then a late dinner. I love Spain, partly because they also love: bread, wine, olive oil, and relaxing. The food is rich enough that my stomach is kind of wrecked this afternoon, but I will suffer through! I think our favorite is the pan amb tomates (don't quote me on the language), which is basically thick sliced fresh bread, amply brushed with olive oil, and then topped with fresh tomato guts. It's yummy, and can accompany every meal. Besides the food, Barcelona is hands down beautiful. Today we did a walking tour throuh the old gothic area/roman area and the lanes and buildings are breathtaking. There's nothing like it Stateside. I love how you peer down a skinny lane and in the background you see a mountain or a building or a church steeple peeking out above, so photogenically.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Wed!
The wedding went off without a hitch on Saturday and Todd and I are officially married. Hooray! The ceremony itself was in my parents' front yard, and the weather was phenomenal: it was sunny but cool enough to be outside and kind of rare for August. The reception at the Chinese restaurant was full of food and I danced like crazy, not a little because I was so gleeful that 10 months of planning was finished.
Tonight we leave for the honeymoon, and now we can enjoy life as married people.
Thanks to Suzi for the pictures!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Yeah..
The wedding is like five days away. I'm in VA prepping and there is a lot to do. That's why I'd rather write about the movies that I've watched lately.
1. "Persepolis": As good as you'd expect! It synthesized both I and II of the books and the art was wonderful. I probably learned more about recent Iranian history than I had ever known before. Maybe that says more about my own ignorance, though. See it!
2. "My Kid Could Paint That": Also really good! For those who don't know, the story follows the adorable 4-year old moppet who rocked the art world with her paintings that people compared to the likes of Jackson Pollack. The doc originally started out as a look at the world of contemporary art and examining how people qualify art as valuable. But, then it turned into a really interesting whodunnit, since many began to question whether the kid was solely behind those paintings. Incredibly intriguing and I know that I was convinced that she didn't create many of the paintings attributed to her, although the filmmaker never really came down on any side. Oh, and her paintings were selling for tens of thousands.
3. "Manda Bala:" I just watched this documentary about crime and corruption in Brazil. All I know is that after watching it, I was convinced to cancel any imminent trips to Sao Paolo. Kidnappings for ransom occur once a day there, according to the film, and now the rich are *helicoptering* to and from their locations and buying bulletproof cars in order to escape the kidnappers.
4. "SubUrbia": This was on IFC the other day so I sat and watched the entire thing. I didn't like it at all, and I can dig some Richard Linklater, usually. Maybe it's because every single one of the characters was irritating. Maybe it was because it was full of ennui. Maybe because, as I discovered afterward, it was apparently originally a stage play put to screen (I actually commented to Todd while we watched it that it felt like the lines were being delivered as if it were a play), and I didn't expect that.
5. "Lars and the Real Girl": I will admit that I teared up at one point in this movie about a man's relationship with his Real Girl doll. Still, though, I felt like it dragged. I do love me some Ryan Gosling--even when he's kind of puffy and wears an 80s moustache.
The wedding is like five days away. I'm in VA prepping and there is a lot to do. That's why I'd rather write about the movies that I've watched lately.
1. "Persepolis": As good as you'd expect! It synthesized both I and II of the books and the art was wonderful. I probably learned more about recent Iranian history than I had ever known before. Maybe that says more about my own ignorance, though. See it!
2. "My Kid Could Paint That": Also really good! For those who don't know, the story follows the adorable 4-year old moppet who rocked the art world with her paintings that people compared to the likes of Jackson Pollack. The doc originally started out as a look at the world of contemporary art and examining how people qualify art as valuable. But, then it turned into a really interesting whodunnit, since many began to question whether the kid was solely behind those paintings. Incredibly intriguing and I know that I was convinced that she didn't create many of the paintings attributed to her, although the filmmaker never really came down on any side. Oh, and her paintings were selling for tens of thousands.
3. "Manda Bala:" I just watched this documentary about crime and corruption in Brazil. All I know is that after watching it, I was convinced to cancel any imminent trips to Sao Paolo. Kidnappings for ransom occur once a day there, according to the film, and now the rich are *helicoptering* to and from their locations and buying bulletproof cars in order to escape the kidnappers.
4. "SubUrbia": This was on IFC the other day so I sat and watched the entire thing. I didn't like it at all, and I can dig some Richard Linklater, usually. Maybe it's because every single one of the characters was irritating. Maybe it was because it was full of ennui. Maybe because, as I discovered afterward, it was apparently originally a stage play put to screen (I actually commented to Todd while we watched it that it felt like the lines were being delivered as if it were a play), and I didn't expect that.
5. "Lars and the Real Girl": I will admit that I teared up at one point in this movie about a man's relationship with his Real Girl doll. Still, though, I felt like it dragged. I do love me some Ryan Gosling--even when he's kind of puffy and wears an 80s moustache.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Suitably impressed
Last night, Todd's friend, Brian, got married to his new bride, Cary. We attended the wedding which was in the Ravenswood area in Chicago and was held at a store called Architectural Artifacts.
What a beautiful venue. It's a large building with huge ceilings and various open floors and it's filled with various statues, signs, columns. They got married in the courtyard surrounded by enormous stone statues. It was lovely! It was enhanced by the rumble of the el over the ceremony and the dudes hanging out in the stairwell of the neighboring apartment drinking beers and watching the festivities.
Last night, Todd's friend, Brian, got married to his new bride, Cary. We attended the wedding which was in the Ravenswood area in Chicago and was held at a store called Architectural Artifacts.
What a beautiful venue. It's a large building with huge ceilings and various open floors and it's filled with various statues, signs, columns. They got married in the courtyard surrounded by enormous stone statues. It was lovely! It was enhanced by the rumble of the el over the ceremony and the dudes hanging out in the stairwell of the neighboring apartment drinking beers and watching the festivities.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Listless
Blah: I don't want to do anything. I don't really have an excuse since I am mostly off this summer. As the wedding presses ever closer, though, I feel: annoyed. And full of ennui. Don't get me wrong, I'm excited to be married, and am excited to get married, but am not excited to plan for the stupid wedding. I have a terribly bad attitude right now, and hopefully a good work out will cleanse me.
But, isn't it funny that I feel listless, and the reason why is because I am surrounded by lists (to do, mental, etc)?
Blah: I don't want to do anything. I don't really have an excuse since I am mostly off this summer. As the wedding presses ever closer, though, I feel: annoyed. And full of ennui. Don't get me wrong, I'm excited to be married, and am excited to get married, but am not excited to plan for the stupid wedding. I have a terribly bad attitude right now, and hopefully a good work out will cleanse me.
But, isn't it funny that I feel listless, and the reason why is because I am surrounded by lists (to do, mental, etc)?
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Wow!How awesome is this picture? And how awesome is the news that our Hillary (pictured here) won the Alexander Graham Bell Association of the Deaf 2008 Rookie of the Year award???
This picture is from the article that tells all about it in the Australian newspaper Adelaide Now (Hillary works in Adelaide right now).
I knew her when.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Read It!
There's an article about Robin's delicious dumpling restaurant, Kuai, in the Dallas Morning News!
There's an article about Robin's delicious dumpling restaurant, Kuai, in the Dallas Morning News!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Hmmm
My very nice trainer gave me the dubious honor of telling me that I sweat the most of all of her clients during our workouts. Um, thanks? I don't know if I want to be known as the excessive sweat producer, but it's true. Especially with the humid weather now, I am positively soaked every time I leave the gym. Today it kind of looked like I jumped in the shower with all of my clothes. (Don't worry, I just did a little Googling, and it's GOOD to sweat lots, it means that you're more efficient at cooling down!).
I had a killer session this morning, in which a good percentage of it was based on doing a variety push ups while balancing on those horrid mini medicine balls on my hands. I hate those exercises with every thread and shred of my being. I want to die when I do them. Seriously.
At the session's end, my trainer asked me if I had known that I wanted a choose a female or male trainer (female, all the way, for me...it's a comfort thing). Anyway, she said that people often seem to think that female trainers are easier on their clients. In my case this is not true: I often see people (who totally appear to be in poorer fitness shape than me!) traipsing around with their male trainers and they're conversing and *laughing* through out their sessions. In the meantime, I probably spend at least 50% of my sessions praying that it will be over soon. And groaning loudly like a wounded seal. I seriously stop caring about the noises I make.
This is not to say that I don't appreciate my training sessions: they're great. It's just that they force me to do those kind of strength building exercises (e.g. push ups on the devil's medicine balls) that I effing loathe but know that I need.
So, anyway: if you need some excess human sweat, come and find me at the gym.
My very nice trainer gave me the dubious honor of telling me that I sweat the most of all of her clients during our workouts. Um, thanks? I don't know if I want to be known as the excessive sweat producer, but it's true. Especially with the humid weather now, I am positively soaked every time I leave the gym. Today it kind of looked like I jumped in the shower with all of my clothes. (Don't worry, I just did a little Googling, and it's GOOD to sweat lots, it means that you're more efficient at cooling down!).
I had a killer session this morning, in which a good percentage of it was based on doing a variety push ups while balancing on those horrid mini medicine balls on my hands. I hate those exercises with every thread and shred of my being. I want to die when I do them. Seriously.
At the session's end, my trainer asked me if I had known that I wanted a choose a female or male trainer (female, all the way, for me...it's a comfort thing). Anyway, she said that people often seem to think that female trainers are easier on their clients. In my case this is not true: I often see people (who totally appear to be in poorer fitness shape than me!) traipsing around with their male trainers and they're conversing and *laughing* through out their sessions. In the meantime, I probably spend at least 50% of my sessions praying that it will be over soon. And groaning loudly like a wounded seal. I seriously stop caring about the noises I make.
This is not to say that I don't appreciate my training sessions: they're great. It's just that they force me to do those kind of strength building exercises (e.g. push ups on the devil's medicine balls) that I effing loathe but know that I need.
So, anyway: if you need some excess human sweat, come and find me at the gym.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Winery Shower
Ah, thanks be to my favorite ADD for organizing an amazing bridal shower. We went to Potomac Point Winery just south of the beltway for lunch, gifts, and a tasting. It was quite lovely and nice to see some much missed and beloved friends (my DC contingent, if you will...and I will). The traffic down there was something with which to contend, but sweet Suzi offered to drive. Oh, and also Suzi brought this honey goatcheese cheesecake with raspberry sauce which was nothing short of heavenly and kind of made me want to cry myself to sleep with joy. Thanks for Anne for lunch, and thanks to Annie for the tasting, and thanks for Des for making these remarkable blueberry tarts that look like something from the illustrations of the "Alice and Wonderland" book (those illustrations always made me hungry). I gots some nice friends. Also, thanks for my mom for coming and for gifting me the jade that I'm sporting in the photos.
Oh, and also thanks to Suzi for the pictures. :)
Monday, June 16, 2008
Detective
So, we got a second kitty! We went to a no-kill, no-cage shelter on the northside of the city called Felines Inc. I can't recommend the place enough to people looking to adopt kitties. The volunteers are so helpful: you walk in and tell them your situation and what kind of kitty you're looking for, and they think about several cats to introduce you to. The place itself is a large house with 120+ cats wandering freely (and unbelievably, it does NOT smell like kitty litter). We got to meet a few cats and then spend as much time with them as we wanted, among all of the cats. I love that. The other shelter where we got Hef had to be all business: you named off the tab band of that cat you wanted to meet, and the people retrieved them from a cage for you. You don't have time to dawdle and play.
So, we ended up choosing a long-haired kinda scruffy looking guy who we have now named "Detective Helldorfer" after a homicide detective on A&E's the "First 48." Todd loved the guy's name at first blush, so we've kept it in our pockets, waiting for the second cat. We call him "Detective" for short, of course. This cat had me at hello when we met him. He was relaxing amongst the cats when we first walked in. When I knelt beside him, he immediately got up to clamber into my lap. He appeared to be a sincere and true lap cat (Hef likes the lap for short stints, but prefers to snooze beside you with his paw resting upon your thigh). Todd and I both agreed that this guy was the one for us. Plus, he has these kind of big hairy paws that I love.
We brought him home yesterday and kitty has not emerged from under the bed in the guest bed room. No, scratch that: he did sit by the door and cry pathetically in the middle of the night. I woke up, opened the door, and he rushed back under the bed.
I'm being patient and letting him get comfortable at his own pace, but I'm worried that it's going to take weeks to months. The good news is that he's eating and using the litter box. Hef is curious and sometimes sits by the closed door outside new kitty's room, but for the most part carries on his usual routine of napping by the window or on the couch.
So, we got a second kitty! We went to a no-kill, no-cage shelter on the northside of the city called Felines Inc. I can't recommend the place enough to people looking to adopt kitties. The volunteers are so helpful: you walk in and tell them your situation and what kind of kitty you're looking for, and they think about several cats to introduce you to. The place itself is a large house with 120+ cats wandering freely (and unbelievably, it does NOT smell like kitty litter). We got to meet a few cats and then spend as much time with them as we wanted, among all of the cats. I love that. The other shelter where we got Hef had to be all business: you named off the tab band of that cat you wanted to meet, and the people retrieved them from a cage for you. You don't have time to dawdle and play.
So, we ended up choosing a long-haired kinda scruffy looking guy who we have now named "Detective Helldorfer" after a homicide detective on A&E's the "First 48." Todd loved the guy's name at first blush, so we've kept it in our pockets, waiting for the second cat. We call him "Detective" for short, of course. This cat had me at hello when we met him. He was relaxing amongst the cats when we first walked in. When I knelt beside him, he immediately got up to clamber into my lap. He appeared to be a sincere and true lap cat (Hef likes the lap for short stints, but prefers to snooze beside you with his paw resting upon your thigh). Todd and I both agreed that this guy was the one for us. Plus, he has these kind of big hairy paws that I love.
We brought him home yesterday and kitty has not emerged from under the bed in the guest bed room. No, scratch that: he did sit by the door and cry pathetically in the middle of the night. I woke up, opened the door, and he rushed back under the bed.
I'm being patient and letting him get comfortable at his own pace, but I'm worried that it's going to take weeks to months. The good news is that he's eating and using the litter box. Hef is curious and sometimes sits by the closed door outside new kitty's room, but for the most part carries on his usual routine of napping by the window or on the couch.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
05. days left
Tomorrow is the last day of work until next fall and it'll only be a half day. Freedom! Today was "teacher institute day" which means that the kids aren't around, but you have the time to get organized, clean, file, etc. I'm thrilled.
I also want to report that I was really proud of myself during my training session last night as I did for the first time something I wasn't able to before. See, my balance and stability is kind of my weak point. One of the things my trainer always tried to get me to do was to be able to roll with your belly on one of those giant exercise balls. Eventually your shins are resting on the ball, and the rest of your body is in a plank position. From there, you move your hands up from the ground so that they rest on the barbell. The ending result is that you're kind of in push up position, except your legs are straight out. Before, I would always fly off the ball or push the barbell away trying to get balance. After one false start, I did it last night! I was psyched.
Tomorrow is the last day of work until next fall and it'll only be a half day. Freedom! Today was "teacher institute day" which means that the kids aren't around, but you have the time to get organized, clean, file, etc. I'm thrilled.
I also want to report that I was really proud of myself during my training session last night as I did for the first time something I wasn't able to before. See, my balance and stability is kind of my weak point. One of the things my trainer always tried to get me to do was to be able to roll with your belly on one of those giant exercise balls. Eventually your shins are resting on the ball, and the rest of your body is in a plank position. From there, you move your hands up from the ground so that they rest on the barbell. The ending result is that you're kind of in push up position, except your legs are straight out. Before, I would always fly off the ball or push the barbell away trying to get balance. After one false start, I did it last night! I was psyched.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
You've got to check out these wedding shots that were taken right as the earthquake hit in China. Amazing stuff.
(via metafilter)
(via metafilter)
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Did I tell you? Probably not...
-My new gym finally, finally opened and everyone was biting at the bit to get into it because it's been crowded yesterday when it opened and today. Luckily they have a four story garage (I parked on the fourth floor today and it offers a pretty amazing view of the skyline). It's shiny, new, and I love the personal tvs. Today I watched "Cash Cab" on the treadmill.
I also had my intro session with my new trainer. I needed to schedule my training sessions, and had to approach a trainer to do it, so I eyeballed them while they milled around the first day. I totally chose mine based on her down-to-earth appearance and she appeared to have the smallest ratio of hair product: hair. I think I chose correctly. She's super nice and has a gentle, non-judgmental manner, which I love because I need that kind of nurturing when it comes to strength building. So we did the measurements etc tonight and she figured out where my starting levels are. Bottom line: my arms are weak, people! And my balance could be better, too. And I intend to lose some inches. So, I'm going to have my next session with her on Thursday and I expect it to hurt a little.
-We painted one of our bathrooms. It's a nice light blue-gray and I love it. I did the roller and Todd did the edges and the prep and clean up. His part was much tougher, but we both get to enjoy the pay off.
- We tried to take HF/Hef to the vet last Saturday. Key word: TRIED. Dude was NOT going to be coaxed into his carrier. We tried about three times and it was chaotic and kitty was stressed. Todd ended up getting his forearms scratched to hell and then Hef just ran away and hid under the bed. Vet for another time. We read up a little and I guess the key is to desensitize him: leave it out, leave the door open, even put his food into there. Anyone else got any good ideas for me?
-16 more days left to school (I'm not counting the last day since the kids are like there an hour and everyone gets let out early).
-My new gym finally, finally opened and everyone was biting at the bit to get into it because it's been crowded yesterday when it opened and today. Luckily they have a four story garage (I parked on the fourth floor today and it offers a pretty amazing view of the skyline). It's shiny, new, and I love the personal tvs. Today I watched "Cash Cab" on the treadmill.
I also had my intro session with my new trainer. I needed to schedule my training sessions, and had to approach a trainer to do it, so I eyeballed them while they milled around the first day. I totally chose mine based on her down-to-earth appearance and she appeared to have the smallest ratio of hair product: hair. I think I chose correctly. She's super nice and has a gentle, non-judgmental manner, which I love because I need that kind of nurturing when it comes to strength building. So we did the measurements etc tonight and she figured out where my starting levels are. Bottom line: my arms are weak, people! And my balance could be better, too. And I intend to lose some inches. So, I'm going to have my next session with her on Thursday and I expect it to hurt a little.
-We painted one of our bathrooms. It's a nice light blue-gray and I love it. I did the roller and Todd did the edges and the prep and clean up. His part was much tougher, but we both get to enjoy the pay off.
- We tried to take HF/Hef to the vet last Saturday. Key word: TRIED. Dude was NOT going to be coaxed into his carrier. We tried about three times and it was chaotic and kitty was stressed. Todd ended up getting his forearms scratched to hell and then Hef just ran away and hid under the bed. Vet for another time. We read up a little and I guess the key is to desensitize him: leave it out, leave the door open, even put his food into there. Anyone else got any good ideas for me?
-16 more days left to school (I'm not counting the last day since the kids are like there an hour and everyone gets let out early).
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Super Fat Japanese MonkeyThe tourists overfeed them.
You can read about it here.
I love it.
(via neatorama)
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Shiny New Gym
So, this gym has been in the works close by to Todd's and my place for at least a year now. I think it was last summer that they had their skimpily dressed employees handing out promotional flyers in the main, very crappy intersection by which it resides. In fact, we got a flyer a couple of weeks ago and I finally called today since the deal was about to expire. On the phone I was told that I HAD to come in, and with some reluctance (I wanted to go home after work, dammit!), I faced the bad traffic and went by. The place is opening in a couple of weeks and I got a tour today before they nailed me down with the contract.
Dudes, it's NICE. It has tons of equipment, and each cardio machine has its own personal television. That's high living for me. It has a pool, a resistance pool, and a jacuzzi. It's got a steam room and a sauna. It's got a room for spinning classes, one for yoga and pilates classes, and another for other aerobic classes. It has a rock climbing wall and a basketball court, which isn't my thing, but it still kind of fancy. I paid one bulk rate for the year at a promotional rate, but it's worth it since it worked out to $35 per month, which is dirt cheap in the world of gyms in Chicago.
Since it was their last day of their promotion, their theme was "Hawaiian luau" and I was kind of embarrassed for them. Everyone was dressed a la Miami Vice circa 1985 and they were "spinning records" really loudly and dancing outside the building...which is right across the street from a Target parking lot.
The dude who took me around was a nice enough guy, but kind of a caricature of himself. He was super friendly and to every person we passed he called out something like "How's it going, Big Guy!" or "Yeah! That's what I'm talking about!" All I could think about was how Todd would say that he'd bet that this guy would like "bro-ing it up" and watching some "Entourage." I ended up signing up for some personal training sessions (not with him--he was too enthusiastic for me) mainly because the rate was pretty good and I can take advantage of them with the summer coming up. Each salesperson bamboozled people into signing up for them, though, because immediately after signing you up, they take your fat percentage and calculate your BMI! I kind of resented that, but whatever. I'm a little scared of personal training since I'm so goddamn weak, but that's exactly why I need to face my fears. Ugh.
So, this gym has been in the works close by to Todd's and my place for at least a year now. I think it was last summer that they had their skimpily dressed employees handing out promotional flyers in the main, very crappy intersection by which it resides. In fact, we got a flyer a couple of weeks ago and I finally called today since the deal was about to expire. On the phone I was told that I HAD to come in, and with some reluctance (I wanted to go home after work, dammit!), I faced the bad traffic and went by. The place is opening in a couple of weeks and I got a tour today before they nailed me down with the contract.
Dudes, it's NICE. It has tons of equipment, and each cardio machine has its own personal television. That's high living for me. It has a pool, a resistance pool, and a jacuzzi. It's got a steam room and a sauna. It's got a room for spinning classes, one for yoga and pilates classes, and another for other aerobic classes. It has a rock climbing wall and a basketball court, which isn't my thing, but it still kind of fancy. I paid one bulk rate for the year at a promotional rate, but it's worth it since it worked out to $35 per month, which is dirt cheap in the world of gyms in Chicago.
Since it was their last day of their promotion, their theme was "Hawaiian luau" and I was kind of embarrassed for them. Everyone was dressed a la Miami Vice circa 1985 and they were "spinning records" really loudly and dancing outside the building...which is right across the street from a Target parking lot.
The dude who took me around was a nice enough guy, but kind of a caricature of himself. He was super friendly and to every person we passed he called out something like "How's it going, Big Guy!" or "Yeah! That's what I'm talking about!" All I could think about was how Todd would say that he'd bet that this guy would like "bro-ing it up" and watching some "Entourage." I ended up signing up for some personal training sessions (not with him--he was too enthusiastic for me) mainly because the rate was pretty good and I can take advantage of them with the summer coming up. Each salesperson bamboozled people into signing up for them, though, because immediately after signing you up, they take your fat percentage and calculate your BMI! I kind of resented that, but whatever. I'm a little scared of personal training since I'm so goddamn weak, but that's exactly why I need to face my fears. Ugh.
Todd's 30th
So this past Saturday was Todd's birthday...he's finally 30! He still looks way young, but maybe now people won't think he's 18 anymore. Regardless, it was my duty as the Future Wife to plan the shindig, and in my usual state, I left it till two weeks beforehand. We did some scrambling, but managed to get the private room at my favorite old neighborhood bar, Spyners, in Lincoln Square. We used to go there to watch/do karaoke and soak in the comfortable, slightly grizzled atmosphere. It's an earthy kinda place. Anyway, I knew that they had a back room and when I called I was told that: a.) the room was open that night, and b), we could have it.
It was great and I can't recommend this place enough for your private parties. First of all, the back room is enormous and was NO COST (way bigger than the regular bar and way nicer as well since it's brand new--you even have your own new bathrooms to use). Also, Maureen, the owner, catered the party and let me just tell you that it was dirt cheap. She put out a spread of nice salads, dips, cheeses, crackers, spaghetti and meatballs, italian sausage, pasta alfredo with shrimp, italian beef sandwiches, and shepherds pie along with german chocolate cake for dessert. It worked out to about $3.12 per person and it was GOOD. If our wedding were small enough, you're potentially talking about the cheapest wedding reception ever.
Enough about the food, though...More about the party.
Todd, Steve, and Kiley played a short set, which was awesome, and a fun spectrum of people showed up. Afterward, people wandered into the main area and partook in the karaoke with the rest of the bar. We didn't end up leaving until 1:30, which is like staying out till 6 in the morn at this point in my life. Todd had been sick that weekend, but he rallied and seemed to have a good time. Also, people brought him a lot of nice beer as gifts, so that sweetened the party for him.
So, fun times! Todd resides in the same decade as me! Call Maureen at Spyners if you have a private party to plan!
So this past Saturday was Todd's birthday...he's finally 30! He still looks way young, but maybe now people won't think he's 18 anymore. Regardless, it was my duty as the Future Wife to plan the shindig, and in my usual state, I left it till two weeks beforehand. We did some scrambling, but managed to get the private room at my favorite old neighborhood bar, Spyners, in Lincoln Square. We used to go there to watch/do karaoke and soak in the comfortable, slightly grizzled atmosphere. It's an earthy kinda place. Anyway, I knew that they had a back room and when I called I was told that: a.) the room was open that night, and b), we could have it.
It was great and I can't recommend this place enough for your private parties. First of all, the back room is enormous and was NO COST (way bigger than the regular bar and way nicer as well since it's brand new--you even have your own new bathrooms to use). Also, Maureen, the owner, catered the party and let me just tell you that it was dirt cheap. She put out a spread of nice salads, dips, cheeses, crackers, spaghetti and meatballs, italian sausage, pasta alfredo with shrimp, italian beef sandwiches, and shepherds pie along with german chocolate cake for dessert. It worked out to about $3.12 per person and it was GOOD. If our wedding were small enough, you're potentially talking about the cheapest wedding reception ever.
Enough about the food, though...More about the party.
Todd, Steve, and Kiley played a short set, which was awesome, and a fun spectrum of people showed up. Afterward, people wandered into the main area and partook in the karaoke with the rest of the bar. We didn't end up leaving until 1:30, which is like staying out till 6 in the morn at this point in my life. Todd had been sick that weekend, but he rallied and seemed to have a good time. Also, people brought him a lot of nice beer as gifts, so that sweetened the party for him.
So, fun times! Todd resides in the same decade as me! Call Maureen at Spyners if you have a private party to plan!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
37 Days
Two teachers came up and told me that there are 37 days left to the school year, and then another teacher told me that there are 7 weeks left. People aren't stoked for the summer in the least, are they? I think what makes it so tough--besides overall teacher exhaustion--is that the weather is so glowingly amazing outside all of the sudden. It makes people all the more itchy to be free. I know that I'm excited.
In cat news, we're still loving it. Todd has taken to calling him "Heff" and "El Jefe" (sp?), and we both call him "Kitty" by default, but it doesn't seem to confuse him too much. Bottom line is that he's totally dying for you to love him, so he'll come running when you sneeze. I hosted book club the other night and he immediately snuggled up between Lauren and Becky on the couch. His idiosyncracies are coming out as well. He likes to lay beside you and fall asleep while having at least one paw pressed against you, which is particularly endearing. At one point yesterday he nestled up on the cushion behind me on the couch and all of the sudden I felt a paw on my face, which he was happy to leave there for as long as possible. I kissed it and Todd reminded me that that's the same paw he uses to push his kitty litter around after he poops. Last night Todd commented that someone must have been sad to give this guy up along the way, and I agree but their loss is our gain. People, I love my cat.
Two teachers came up and told me that there are 37 days left to the school year, and then another teacher told me that there are 7 weeks left. People aren't stoked for the summer in the least, are they? I think what makes it so tough--besides overall teacher exhaustion--is that the weather is so glowingly amazing outside all of the sudden. It makes people all the more itchy to be free. I know that I'm excited.
In cat news, we're still loving it. Todd has taken to calling him "Heff" and "El Jefe" (sp?), and we both call him "Kitty" by default, but it doesn't seem to confuse him too much. Bottom line is that he's totally dying for you to love him, so he'll come running when you sneeze. I hosted book club the other night and he immediately snuggled up between Lauren and Becky on the couch. His idiosyncracies are coming out as well. He likes to lay beside you and fall asleep while having at least one paw pressed against you, which is particularly endearing. At one point yesterday he nestled up on the cushion behind me on the couch and all of the sudden I felt a paw on my face, which he was happy to leave there for as long as possible. I kissed it and Todd reminded me that that's the same paw he uses to push his kitty litter around after he poops. Last night Todd commented that someone must have been sad to give this guy up along the way, and I agree but their loss is our gain. People, I love my cat.
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