tinyblogspot

Adios amigos!... for now...

2008-05-26T16:46:00.004-05:00

Well folks. I do believe the time has come for me to take an official leave of absence from the blogging world. I just can't seem to find the motivation these days.

I'll be sure to let you know if/when I'll be back.

Meanwhile, I will continue reading/commenting on others' blogs whenever possible.

Thanks for reading!

An inspiration

2008-05-20T17:09:00.005-05:00

Sometimes in life we are lucky enough to meet individuals who truly inspire us. Our tour director, Suzy, in Europe was one of those people.

If you have a few minutes, check out the above video. It chronicles an emotional attempt to climb an incredibly high mountain in China along with her gals, a group called the Lipstick Blondes.

Seriously, I aspire to know a third of the knowledge and be as motivated to do such extraordinary things.

Why didn't I think of this?

2008-05-20T17:05:00.004-05:00

I don't know who thought of creating allmyfaves.com but I'm sure they are now bringing in a ton of bucks somehow... Makes one wish they would have thought of it first.

In any case, it seems to be a pretty cool site. Thought I'd share.

Highlights!

2008-05-18T17:29:00.005-05:00

H did a great job journaling while we were overseas so that we don't forget what we did on this trip. For the purposes of this blog, though, I thought I'd give you some of my brief highlights and lessons learned off the top of my head (cuz I know you're all dying to hear them!)...

London
- Incredible hotel right next to the Tower Bridge.
- Tower of London. Awesome.
- St. Paul's Cathedral is breathtaking.
- Wicked in the "West End" was phenomenal.
- Go Ahead British tour director insanely knowledgeable. (Looked and talked a lot like our friend Bob.)
- Fish 'n chips and mushy peas are a better option than whole fish specials.
- Can't believe we were so close to the Queen at Windsor Castle!
- Brick Lane - the hipster hot-spot alley - was so cool.

London overall: So much better than I ever imagined. LOVED learning about the history. Can't wait to get my paws on some more books about its monarchy.

Paris
- Everything I ever imagined. And so much more.
- LOVED the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
- Montmartre (Painter's Square) was one of my favorite spots.
- Saw a show at The Moulin Rouge. SO random. SO beautiful. Didn't want it to end.
- Versailles was amazing. Can't believe people actually lived that way. (French tour director told us all to see Sophia Coppolla's "Marie Antoinette" as it was a great depiction of how the French see Versailles and the ill-fated queen. A and I watched it this weekend!)
- Cafes open until the wee hours serving delicious crepes and wine. Mmmm.

Paris overall: I could live in Paris. In a heartbeat. Really. There's just something about it.

Rome
- Stood in the Coliseum in sheer amazement.
- So many ancient ruins.
- Food here was absolutely INCREDIBLE.
- How on earth is the Pantheon still around with that gigantic hole in the ceiling, constantly letting rain in?
- Trevi Fountain was breathtakingly beautiful.
- H and I couldn't finish our wine here (which was spectacular) on multiple occasions... too full from the food!
- Perhaps if I were Catholic I would have loved Vatican City a bit more? (Still very beautiful...)

Rome overall: Rome was incredible. Very different than London or Paris. We were warned about it's uncleanliness before we got there. If you look past that, though, you can truly appreciate the rich history and culture.

Venice
- One of the most (if not the most) beautiful places I've ever seen.
- Canals and mini-bridges around every corner.
- Hotel Marin was so cute. Quaint.
- Food was, again, AMAZING.
- 100 euros for a ride in a gondola. (We took a water taxi instead.)
- Got to see my cousin and her boys who live about an hour north of Venice.
- Could spend days here shopping at all the little shops and markets.
- Way too many pigeons in St. Mark's Square (which was so gorgeous!).
- Millions of alleys and NO cars.

Venice overall: I look at the pictures and hardly believe they're real. Honestly. They look like we placed ourselves in front of some beautiful backdrop that doesn't really exist. I would go back to Venice in a heartbeat.

Our European vacation

2008-05-18T17:20:00.005-05:00

I have A LOT more (about 630 more to be precise) where these came from but thought I'd give you just a glimpse so that you don't go cross-eyed looking at European buildings, monuments and churches...

See ya on the flip side!

2008-05-02T06:37:00.001-05:00

Yay!

Welcome!

2008-05-01T08:24:00.003-05:00

I'd like to welcome Ms. Benz to the blogging world.

The title of her blog: Wine a bit... you'll feel better.

Offensive or just practical?

2008-04-30T12:13:00.004-05:00

I was listening to the radio on the way into work the other day. The question of the day? Do you think it is OK if your significant other wears jewelry given to them by an ex?

I was surprised to hear one of the DJs and many callers say that they would feel 100 percent offended. To me, it's just not that big of a deal. (Unless it's like an engagement/wedding ring or something and holds a lot of meaning...) If you like the jewelry, why not keep wearing it? It's just a thing, right?

What do you think?

* After that long blogging hiatus, I'm not sure I have any readers left to make comments!

Just for fun

2008-04-30T12:08:00.003-05:00

Je suis excité visiter si l'Europe. Je me sens comme j'ai attendu ma vie entière pour faire si. Et, maintenant, j'obtiens pour aller avec de de mes la plupart des gens préférés.

J'ai révisé un morceau sur mon français, mais craindre que tous sera terriblement perdu dans Rome. Rien n'aime est perdu dans un pays étranger avec votre une aimée !

*L'amour de Gotta libère les sites internet de traduction... Cela m'aurait pris à jamais pour chiffrer!

Where have I been?

2008-04-30T12:01:00.004-05:00

Well, friends. I've been sitting at home reading "The Lady Elizabeth." (After watching some movies about her, I'm completely intrigued...)

It was supposed to be my book for the big trip, but I seriously can't seem to put it down.

I think I have a problem. Books (good ones anyway) totally take me away from the world of the living.

I should be done by Friday.

No blogging today

2008-04-25T11:36:00.000-05:00

Live at the Magic Stick: The McFlys

2008-04-22T16:31:00.002-05:00

PHENOMENAUTS

4.27.2008 @ 8:00pm
Click here to visit website
PHENOMENAUTS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THE A.K.A.S MALDROID THE MCFLYS

$8ADV/$10DOS ALL AGES
BUY TIX @ THE MAJESTIC
http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0800408AAC4E3552?artistid=1207416&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=60

Woohoo J! So excited for you!

Perhaps they should have planned a bit more...

2008-04-22T08:40:00.002-05:00

So many things running through my mind... Since the priest is still missing, though, I'll keep my comments to myself.

I sure hope he's ok.

This one's for you A

2008-04-22T08:30:00.003-05:00

Stop Pumping Gas: Ten Hot Home Office Jobs
Yahoo.com

With fuel prices topping four dollars per gallon in some states, many Americans want to keep their paychecks in their pockets and out of their gas tanks. Thanks to cheap Internet access and fast computers, some workers can perform their jobs just as well from home as they can in the office. Government analysts recently identified ten fast-growing jobs that combine higher-than-average hourly wages with the benefits of working from home.

#1: Administrative Services Manager
#2: Computer Systems Analyst

#3: Database Manager

#4: Public Relations Specialist

#5: Paralegal

#6: Probation Officer
#7: Web Design Professional

#8: Desktop Publisher

#9: Medical Transcriptionist

#10: Virtual Assistant

Dude in the picture does look really happy...

Any tips?

2008-04-21T18:25:00.003-05:00

As the big trip gets closer and closer, I'm starting to read a bit online about how one gets prepared for such an endeavor. I've read a bunch of tips from strangers online, but thought I'd ask my friends and fellow bloggers who have traveled abroad as to their #1 travel tips?

I've also been reading quite a bit about the pickpockets over there... And am, quite frankly, a little concerned.

Any tips or ideas are appreciated!

Quick flick wrap-up

2008-04-21T18:08:00.003-05:00

While "studying," I took breaks by watching movies here and there. I'm sure most of you have already seen these, but thought I'd offer my review.

1. Sweeney Todd - Very good. A little to bloody for my taste. Johnny is always tremendous. And, I enjoy Helena Bonham Carter too. I would give it a solid 8 out of 10.

2. I Could Never Be Your Woman - Just ok I think. I really like both Michelle Pfieffer and Paul Rudd. Unfortunately, though, this is one of those movies that you could totally forget about the moment it ends. (It did have "Have I the Right" by the Honeycombs on the soundtrack though... Andrew liked that.) I would give it a 5 out of 10. (Man, I'm tough.)

3. Princess - Yes. This is embarrassing. It was an ABC movie. I watched. But would not watch again. I'm all about Cinderella stories. This just was not it. Oh, and seriously, "Sunshine" from "Remember the Titans" has got to be in his mid-30s now. Not the ideal "prince" for this kind of thing. 3 out of 10.

4. The Wedding Date - This is one of those movies I could watch over and over again. I'm not sure why. Though, I think it has something to do with Dermot Mulroney's hotness. I would highly recommend as a chick flick. And, it ALWAYS seems to be on TV! 9 out of 10.

That's all I can think of for now... But I'm sure there were others. I really tend to procrastinate when homework is involved...

Wow.

2008-04-21T18:06:00.001-05:00

Wow. I had no idea I would be taking that long of a break.

Things are-a-winding down a bit now. Papers have been turned in. Group projects have been completed.

Only one final exam to go at this point.

I hope you are all doing well... and still checking in from time to time!

Don't you give up on me!

2008-04-07T21:19:00.002-05:00

I just realized my paper - that I have yet to start - is due a week earlier than I had originally thought. (Eek!)

Unfortunately, I think it's time I take an official blogging break for the next week or so to focus a bit.

Please don't give up on me. I'll be back in full force soon enough. I promise!

Have a wonderful week folks!

P.S. Next time I blog, I'll officially be an adult. I can't believe I'm reaching my "adult" age... Crazy!

Happy B-Day sis!

2008-04-04T12:27:00.003-05:00

Even though she never looks at my blog, thought I'd throw a birthday shout-out to my sis, B.

Happy Happy Birthday B!

Hope you have the best birthday ever today!

Love you!

OK. Now I'm really pumped.

2008-04-04T12:22:00.002-05:00

We just got official word on our hotels for our trip.

The above is the view from our hotel in London.

All the hotels look absolutely amazing...

London hotel

Paris hotel

Rome hotel

A must-see

2008-04-04T12:11:00.001-05:00

Can't get enough of Entourage

2008-04-01T21:24:00.007-05:00

Johnny. Drama. Is. Hilarious.

I didn't feel comfortable posting some of these quotes on my blog, so thought I'd link instead.

If you watch the show, they're going to crack you up.

If not, perhaps they'll make you tune in. :)

(Click here.)

Happy April Fool's Day

2008-04-01T21:21:00.001-05:00

I love youtube.

Rick Astley has probably never had so many people watch his video.

Awesome.

Warning: Sporatic Blogging Ahead

2008-04-01T21:13:00.002-05:00

Hey there folks. My blog has been pushed to the bottom of the list recently. I will try to get back to posting regular entries but please bare with me.

A few quick updates:

- I am still working out at 6 a.m. (Crazy)
- Working on final stuff for classes
- Have a big event for work this weekend
- Less than a month to Europe!
- A is amazing for putting up with me right about now:)

Interesting... Didn't see that coming...

2008-03-30T09:37:00.000-05:00

American Cities That Best Fit You:

80% Honolulu

55% Atlanta

55% Miami

55% San Diego

50% Austin

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

I'm still in shock

2008-03-25T12:00:00.002-05:00

I did it. I actually woke up at 6 a.m. and worked out BEFORE work.

And... I LOVED it.

What a great feeling to have accomplished something before you even get to work.

I hope I can keep it up!

Amen Mitch Albom. Amen.

2008-03-25T11:55:00.003-05:00

Mitch Albom: Mayor's text message scandal has a sports page feel

(Freep.com) They call him the Hip-Hop Mayor, but that always has been misleading, for he is less a musician than a jock, with a jock's sense of entitlement, a jock's bully muscle, a jock's entourage, a jock's approach to women, and, most of all, a jock's eternal belief that he can fight his way out of anything.

Having seen enough sports scandals, the Kwame Kilpatrick mess feels all too familiar. First, like an athlete in hot water, he blames rumors. When it's proven more than rumors, he blames "haters." When it's proven more than haters, he blames the media. When it's proven more than media, he blames racism. When it's proven more than racism -- when it's proven to be tangible, chargeable, real legal trouble -- he gets the best lawyer money can buy.

So now Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is in the biggest fight of his career, one that parallels many high-profile athletes who insist "they're out to get me." First, others take the fall, as happened with Michael Vick and Tonya Harding and Barry Bonds. Eventually the net tightens. And finally, we have a moment as we did Monday, where the star is fingerprinted and has his photo taken.

And his lawyers start talking.

The game must go on ...

Remember, Kilpatrick, the second-term mayor, was once a lineman for Florida A&M, captain of the football team. And having known and observed him for years, I have often thought he views himself like a superstar athlete, a member of the "in" crowd, entitled to star treatment, security, sleek vehicles, family members on the payroll. He does this while emboldened by a fervent "home" crowd that will love him simply because he wears the right uniform.

And, like some of the sports stars he often hugs and chats up, he feels the show cannot go on without him. The most maddening of all Kilpatrick's deceptions is that he is the only man who can run this city. He forgets there were mayors before him and there will be mayors after him. Certainly many people can run it better than him now, without the shadow of criminal charges and the daily drain of lawyers, worry and anger.

But Kilpatrick wants to play on, like Kobe Bryant with a sexual-assault charge, flying into court in the morning and back for a game at night, like Pete Rose, insisting he can still manage his team despite a Dowd Report that he gambled on baseball.

"I look forward to complete exoneration," the mayor said Monday. "... In the meantime, I will remain focused on moving this city forward."

As the famous quote goes, "A painter paints, a fighter fights ..."

Play ball.

And there is no endgame ...

The difference is, of course, that you are elected mayor by the people, you didn't sign a contract with a guaranteed salary. In sports, if you can perform, they'll pry open the vault, pull the fence out of the ground, because sports serves one master, winning, that is all that matters.

In public office, winning is only how you get there, not how you stay. There are different rules. Rules of behavior. Rules of ethics. As mayor, the word "honorable" comes before your name.
Which means you can't just wiggle out of a tackle, foul when the ref isn't looking, find a way to win and all is forgiven. Kilpatrick's predictable attempts to kill these charges by technicalities (How do you know I used the pager? Who says the text messages are admissible?) show this is just about winning now.

But that should surprise no one. His arrogance is his armor. And any thought of this guy quitting for the good of the city can be trashed right now.

He is the quarterback with an entire football field to cover and 11 men in front of him, a jump shooter with six hands in his face and a parking lot between him and the basket. And still he believes he is entitled to survive, not just survive but to prevail, so he will run, leap, shoot with everything in him, and only history will judge him, perhaps as sad, perhaps as pathetic. Won't matter. In his mind, he's the king, he's entitled, he's doing what a fighter does. He's fighting. You'll have to drag him out by his ears.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T19:16:00.002-05:00

It's official

2008-03-23T19:05:00.005-05:00

I'm addicted to Entourage.

Nevermind that I have a number of other things I should be doing (i.e. 110 pages to read by Wednesday, a group project to work on, a 20-page paper to write, etc.)... What's going to happen with Vinnie and Mandy? Is E going to find love with Sloan? Will Drama and Turtle ever stop smoking weed and stop mooching off Vinnie?

We're only on season 2... But I seriously can't get enough.

P.S. I don't usually go for short guys, but how cute is E?!

This one's for my boys...

2008-03-23T17:18:00.001-05:00

Goooooooooo Michigan State!

Woohoo!

Two down, four to go... :)

If you only had six words...

2008-03-21T14:48:00.003-05:00

Since Tiny seems to be a bit busy with work, classes, and talking on the phone (see below post), I thought I would step in as "Ghostwriter" and relieve her today.

Some people write autobiographies hundreds of pages long. What if you only had six words to sum it up? In Women's Health (my fav mag of all time!), they asked some of the staff to do such a thing. Some examples:

"Make stupid mistakes. Forgive myself. Repeat."
"Keeps champagne handy, just in case."
"Wrote this at the last minute."
"Ride, crash, laugh. Do it again."
"Ran fast. Forgot where I was going."
"I'll need more than six words."
"Hated Barbies. Now professional doll dresser."
"Ten cities, 12 boyfriends, one dog."
"Loves knowing, captures moments, kisses often."

...what would you say?

I did it again.

2008-03-21T11:55:00.000-05:00

Please visit last month's phone entry by clicking here.

The joys of email

2008-03-19T16:33:00.007-05:00

I love email. I love the Internet.

That said, I wonder what it was like working before it all existed?

Today was an average day.
- 63 emails sent
- 76 emails received
- 65 emails flagged and waiting for me to take action

(I'm sure many of you could post similar/higher email stats...)

I wonder how much time the average professional spends each day emailing? Does it really help or hinder?

Like I know everything

2008-03-18T19:43:00.003-05:00

I passed an undergraduate student on my way to a meeting today and overheard her saying, "I just can't WAIT to be done with school."

Now, I know that I probably said the EXACT same thing at the EXACT same point in my life so I have very little room to talk. However, everything in me wanted to stop her and say "Slow down. Enjoy it."

Thankfully, I quickly remembered all the people who used to tell me to "just enjoy it" and thought it best to keep my mouth shut.

Seriously, though, how amazing was college?

* The guy in the above pic seems to be in a hurry. Hence the connection to this post. Sorry. That's the best I could do on this one.

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2008-03-17T08:49:00.002-05:00

White & Nerdy

2008-03-17T08:48:00.002-05:00

I can't believe Weird Al is still doing this.

DD virgin no more!

2008-03-15T09:31:00.004-05:00

I had Dippin' Dots last night for the very first time.

It's been somewhat of a joke between A and I that I had never tried them - nor could find them anywhere when I wanted to try them.

So, while we were at the game last night, we saw a booth and had to partake.

I had "banana split" flavor.

My thoughts? "Good. Weird. This isn't normal."

What do you think? You a fan?

Beautiful Day by U2

2008-03-14T12:16:00.004-05:00

Your Theme Song is Beautiful Day by U2

"Sky falls, you feel like

It's a beautiful day

Don't let it get away"

You see the beauty in life, especially in ordinary everyday moments.

And if you're feeling down, even that seems a little beautiful too.

What's Your Theme Song?

This was actually the song I chose for when we were introduced at our wedding:)

I don't know about "And if you're feeling down, even that seems a little beautiful too"... but I love the song.

Thanks for the quiz tlc!

Who knew?

2008-03-14T11:17:00.004-05:00

It's been somewhat of a rough week... I will surely be enjoying some beer at tonight's game. In case you're not in the mood to drink, though, here are some other ways in which brewsky can be used:

BATHE IN IT
PUT OUT A FIRE
MARINATE MEAT
POLISH POTS
MAKE BEER BARBECUE SAUCE
SHAMPOO HAIR
LOOSEN RUSTY BOLTSPour
CLEAR UP BROWN SPOTS IN YOUR LAWN
STEAM CLAMS OR MUSSELS
PASS A KIDNEY STONE
BOIL SHRIMP
KILL SLUGS
FIND DUE NORTH
SOOTHE TIRED FEET
MAKE A BEER SLIDE
LOWER YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE
TRICK A CHEAP LANDLORD
BAKE BEER BREAD
CATCH MICE
TIE A FLY
CURE INSOMNIA
MASSAGE YOURSELF
CALM AN UPSET STOMACH
BUILD YOUR NEXT HOME
COOK RICE
STOP SNORING
BUILD A PLANE
ROAST CHICKEN
ICE A HAMSTRING
BUILD DELIGHTFUL PATIO FURNITUR
TAME A WILD HAIR
SCALE FISH

Don't believe me? Check out the Men's Health article by clicking here.

I get to wear it!

2008-03-14T11:14:00.005-05:00

A and I will be heading to the Palace this evening to see the Piston's take on the Spurs.

I'm proud to say that this one (in a suite and everything!) is on my reps, not A's!

Can't wait to break in my RIP jersey!

Pay close attention, Kwame...

2008-03-12T11:30:00.007-05:00

New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer announced today that he is resigning. Illegal activity on his behalf cost New York around $80,000.

In his resignation speech, Spitzer stated, "There is much more to be done, and I cannot allow my private failings to disrupt the people's work."

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick has not resigned after his text messaging scandal that cost the city of Detroit $9 million. (He is also currently linked to a murder investigation... But I digress...)

My favorite part? Kwame has now taken to being a victim of media frenzy ("This unethical, illegal lynch-mob mentality has to stop") and is now using race issues (i.e. "lynch-mob"), as well as his wife and children, to try to invoke sympathy and support.

I know when people get mad, they tend to use words and phrases that they shouldn't. And that stinks. However, don't try to cloud the issue. YOU'RE the public figure. YOU lied under oath. YOU cost Detroit employees their jobs. YOU cost the city of Detroit $9 million. YOU need to own up to your actions. YOU owe Detroit residents so much more.

I am truly appalled.

"The mayor still can't even bring himself to admit how he tried to deceive the City Council and the public, or explain why he sought to use the legal system to bury evidence of his affair with his chief of staff and his lies during the police whistle-blower trial. He has nothing to say about the widening scope of accusations and investigations." - Stephen Henderson, Detroit Free Press columnist

Please feel free to read more by clicking here.

P.S. Kwame, if the media was doing anything illegal, you'd be suing. This is all on you. Not them.

The world's 50 most powerful blogs: Part 2

2008-03-11T06:58:00.000-05:00

stephanieklein.blogs.com
holymoly.co.uk
www.michellemalkin.com
crankyflier.com
gofugyourself.typepad.com
gapingvoid.com
dirtydirtydancing.com
crookedtimber.org
bean-sprouts.blogspot.com
theoffside.com
petiteanglaise.com
crooksandliars.com
chocolateandzucchini.com
samizdata.net
andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com
thefword.org.uk
privatesecretdiary.com
popjustice.com
waiterrant.net
hecklerspray.com
WoWinsider.com
angryblackbitch.blogspot.com
stylebubble.typepad.com
afterellen.com
copyblogger.com

* According to guardian.co.uk.com.

I'm basil

2008-03-10T13:10:00.001-05:00

You Are Basil

You are quite popular and loved by most people.

You have a mild temperament, but your style is definitely distinctive.

You are sweet, attractive, and you often smell good.

What Spice Are You?

(Thanks Turtle Parade and Two Pretzels! I love these...)

The world's 50 most powerful blogs: Part 1

2008-03-10T13:03:00.002-05:00

huffingtonpost.com
boingboing.net
techcrunch.com
kottke.org
dooce.com
perezhilton.com
talkingpointsmemo.com
icanhascheezburger.com
beppegrillo.it
gawker.com
drudgereport.com
blog.sina.com.cn/xujinglei
treehugger.com
microsiervos.com
TMZ.com
engadget.com
marbury.typepad.com
chezpim.typepad.com
basicthinking.de/blog
thesartorialist.blogspot.com
studentsforafreetibet.org
jezebel.com
gigazine.net
girlwithaonetrackmind.blogspot.com
mashable.com

* According to guardian.co.uk.com.

Dear Sally Kern

2008-03-10T12:08:00.002-05:00

"I honestly think it's the biggest threat our nation has, even more so than terrorism or Islam." - Sally Kern

Sandblasters

2008-03-09T09:40:00.003-05:00

A and I were up until the wee hours of the night last night watching a show on the Travel Channel called "Sandblasters."

I've never seen such a thing, but was amazed by the creativity and execution. I simply couldn't look away.

I wonder how a person decides they are going to become a sand sculptor...

* My second favorite part of the show, aside from the actual sculptures, was that they blew up (at random) three masterpieces. Reminded me of "The Lottery." The artists just stood there, waiting for their work to blow up...

It's really going to happen!

2008-03-09T09:26:00.009-05:00

Fri 2 May 2008

LV Detroit, MI
AR London/Heathrow

5:50PM
7:05AM

Northwest Airlines

0102

Fri 9 May 2008

LV Paris
AR Rome

12:35PM
2:40PM

Alitalia

0333

Wed 14 May 2008

LV Rome
AR Newark, NJ

11:55AM
3:30PM

Alitalia

0642

Wed 14 May 2008

LV Newark, NJ
AR Detroit, MI

8:15PM
10:30PM

Continental Airlines

2985

I don't know about that five hour delay in Newark, but...

Hooray!!! We now have a flight itinerary!

This makes it much more real.

Not cool Uncle Sam. Not cool.

2008-03-08T15:56:00.004-05:00

We got our taxes done today.

I'm not a happy camper. At all.

Paying sucks.

"As God is my witness"... I shall do all in my power to make sure this does not happen again!

I look forward to meeting you...

2008-03-07T15:15:00.002-05:00

Meet Enrico Schattenmann.

He is an Italian who speaks Italian, English, Spanish and Greek, German, French and some modern Greek.

He is a tour guide with GoAhead tours (the company we're traveling with in May). One of the tours he usually does is the London, Paris and Rome tour.

Why am I telling you all this? Basically, so you'll join me in praying that he is, indeed, our tour guide.

* I'm even quite positive that A and J would fall under Enrico's spell as well...

I feel naked

2008-03-06T17:36:00.003-05:00

My wedding/engagement rings are getting re-rodium dipped.

I can't stand not having a ring on my ring finger. It feels odd.

I may have to whip out some old classic to take its place for a while. I'm thinking of bringing out my circa-'98, Viking class ring just for laughs... (Not really.)

* This is not a picture of my rings. I just thought they were pretty.

The majority rules

2008-03-06T16:01:00.002-05:00

Thank you to all who participated in the "What would you do... drunk guy" survey. Most of you agreed with my actions of calling the police. I felt a little bad doing so. But, seriously. That guy should NOT have been driving.

Maybe next time I will just try the tackle technique...

A coincidence?

2008-03-06T09:19:00.005-05:00

Ever think about that fact that all the "Best Actor" honors this year went to Europeans?

Javier Bardem No Country for Old Men (from Spain)

Tilda Swinton Michael Clayton (from England)

Daniel Day-Lewis There Will Be Blood (from England)

Marion Cotillard La Vie en Rose (from France)

What does that tell us? Basically, if you have an accent or are from a faraway land, you're a better actor. Seriously, even since Johnny Depp has moved abroad he's gained more credibility... (I would SO be packing my bags if I were Jessica Alba. Although I'm fairly certain that wouldn't help in her case anyway...)

P.S. I still haven't seen any of the above movies... Any worth seeing?

I caught up

2008-03-06T09:17:00.003-05:00

Yay for Christian!

LOVED his collection.

Seriously SO talented.

Are you serious?!

2008-03-05T06:44:00.003-05:00

Well my friends. This blogger is indeed one happy camper today.

Why you ask? My University has called a snow day.

I'm in disbelief and currently thanking my lucky stars.

(It's amazing how exhilarated, awake and alive I feel at 6:45 a.m. when I know I don't have to go to work - or class! Yay!!!)

How many do you visit?

2008-03-03T12:28:00.003-05:00

The list of Top Ten Websites as visited by college-aged females for the month of February 2008:

1) Facebook

2) YouTube

3) Google

4) PerezHilton.com

5) CNN

6) MySpace

7) Yahoo

8) School's Site

9) AOL

10) Post Secret

I know I'm a bit out of the target demographic for this poll, however, I still frequent many of the above sites. You?

(I've never heard of Post Secret... I'll have to check it out...)

She won!!!

2008-02-29T13:26:00.005-05:00

Jamie's going to Ireland!

Thank you to all who voted for her!

Woohoo!

(Click here to link to contest.)

I LOVE Ellen

2008-02-29T12:56:00.000-05:00

Quiz to the right

2008-02-29T09:25:00.002-05:00

Please see the quiz in the upper right column of my blog. This actually happened to me the other day. I tackled him and stole his keys. (J/K)

It's time to stay in one place

2008-02-29T09:14:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I was thinking about how A and I have another move in our future. Got me thinking of all the places I've lived.

I don't think I've ever actually thought about the fact that I've lived in 8 cities in the last 9 years. Crazy. I can't wait to stay somewhere for a while.

* And, yes. I'm totally counting my 3-day stint in San Francisco. I sold a car. I went to the CA DMV for a new license. To me, that constitutes a move.

Not impressed

2008-02-29T09:06:00.003-05:00

I've now tried the following McD's new coffee drinks:

- Vanilla cappuccino

- Caramel latte

- Mocha

Thus far, I'm entirely unimpressed.

They just don't seem to hold a candle to their competitors.

Have you tried? What do you think?

If I had to choose today...

2008-02-28T13:17:00.005-05:00

I'd pick this one.

(In Canton, Mich.)

How would this happen so quickly?...

2008-02-28T13:09:00.004-05:00

"New cases of HIV/AIDS in China increased by a whopping 45% last year compared with 2006." - PerezHilton.com

So scary. So sad.

* Perezhilton.com is obviously not my first choice when it comes to reading hard news... Thought I'd pass on anyway.

Not another one!

2008-02-27T12:10:00.003-05:00

Why, oh why do celebrities keep doing this crap to their lips?!

Who's telling them it looks good?!

Food Trifecta

2008-02-26T19:27:00.005-05:00

I'm not sure what to think of these edible creations.

Sure, I LOVE fruit, but I have a few reservations...

For instance:

1) How sanitary is the delivering system?
2) How long would the fruit last before turning bad?
3) Is this still a "romantic" gesture?

Have you ever heard of these things before? Someone's really trying to promote it lately... Check out the website here.

While I'm at it...

2008-02-26T19:21:00.003-05:00

Thought I'd post my mom's awesome banana bread recipe.

I'm waiting for a new loaf to bake right now, so that's pretty much all I can smell. Yummy.

Preheat oven at 350 degrees

Mix:
1/3 cup shortening (melted)
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp soda
1/2 tsp salt
3 mashed bananas (make sure you really mash 'em!)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (totally optional)

Spray bread pan. Heat for 55 minutes and voila!

Enjoy!

A new fave

2008-02-25T20:18:00.003-05:00

I'm sure this is nothing new to most folks out there, but I'd thought I'd share a great dinner idea with ya'll. It's A's fave right now.

Very simple...

- One cut red pepper
- One cut green pepper
- One cut onion
- 1 can of water chestnuts
- 1/2 - 2/3 box of rotini noodles (cooked)
- Szechuan sauce (make sure it's not toooooo hot!)
- Add meat if you'd like as well as other veggies

Mix veggies in a skillet on high. Add noodles once onions brown. Then add sauce.

Eat with tortillas or plain.

Very easy. Very good. And leaves you with a good amount of leftovers.

I'm really trying with this whole cooking thing...!

Watching in style

2008-02-25T20:13:00.004-05:00

A went to a Pistons game last week and came home with one of these babies just for me!

I can't wait to rock my new Rip jersey! I never had a jersey back in the days of the Bad Boys, so this is tres cool.

Hopefully we'll get to a game soon...

* A, he'll always be Ashley to me.

The Oscars

2008-02-24T21:29:00.002-05:00

I'll keep this at a minimum.

Two things.

Cate Blanchett is the definition of elegance, class and talent.

Johnny Depp can truly do no wrong.

That's it for now. Hope you're enjoying the Oscars!

Help Jamie Get to Ireland!

2008-02-22T16:17:00.003-05:00

Click on http://wycd.com/Vote-now-for-your-favorite-Irish-Toast!/1541306 and vote for Jamie (the redhead)! Your votes could help her win a trip to Ireland! (You have to scroll down a bit to cast your vote...)

* Jamie is my friend Dani's sister...

I never learn

2008-02-21T16:44:00.003-05:00

I have a 600-minute per month plan on my phone.

I have used more than 580 minutes.

I don't get new minutes until Feb. 27.

The moral of the story? Please don't worry if you do not hear from me for a week or so. I am ok. I just need more minutes.

(I can still chat after 9 p.m. or on the weekends!)

* Don't even get me started on the text messages... I don't even have those worked into my plan! I can't wait until my contract is up on April 26! T-mobile will screw me no more!

Humorous forward

2008-02-21T09:19:00.001-05:00

THE LAWS OF LIFE

Law of Probability
The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.

Law of the Telephone
If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal.

Law of the Alibi
If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tire, the very next morning you will have a flat tire.

Variation Law
If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will start to move faster than the one you are in now (works every time).

Law of the Bath
When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone rings.

Law of Close Encounters
The probability of meeting someone you know increases dramatically when you are with someone you don't want to be seen with.

Law of the Result
When you try to prove to someone that a machine won't work, it will.

Law of Biomechanics
The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.

Law of the Theater
At any event, the people whose seats are furthest from the aisle arrive last.

Law of Coffee
As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold.

Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.

Wilson's Law
As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.

Doctors' Law
If you don't feel well, make an appointment to go to the doctor, by the time you get there you'll feel better. Don't make an appointment and you'll stay sick.

I'm disgusted

2008-02-19T21:41:00.003-05:00

Let me start this post by saying, yes, I love celebrity culture. I love leaving my own world for a brief period of time and sneaking a glimpse into the lives of those with fame, money and glory. I know my time could be used in MANY more inspiring and creative ways; for whatever reason, this doesn't seem to deter me.

That said, I would like to express my sheer disgust over the fact that a magazine is willing to shell out $6 million for one picture that includes a star (who, if you ask me, isn't nearly as relevant as she used to be) and her yet-to-be-born twins. $6 million?! Seriously? What has this world come to? (I will certainly lose respect if this money isn't given to those in need somewhere in the U.S. or abroad.)

I am going on the record to say that my purchasing of celebrity magazines may, in fact, be finished.

Group projects suck

2008-02-19T21:37:00.001-05:00

That's it. That's all I have to say about that.

Not again

2008-02-18T15:45:00.002-05:00

Oh man.

Don't you just love it when your husband (or significant other) orders about 10 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies?

I. Must. Refrain...

Damn Caramel delites (a.k.a. Samoas)!

No deals for you

2008-02-18T15:37:00.005-05:00

We pulled in to a Hampton Inn at about 2:30 a.m. on Friday morning. (It was either that or keep feeding H energy drinks. We opted for the former.)

Am I the only one disturbed by the fact that hotels (the "nicer" ones anyway) don't offer discounts at such a late hour? Seriously. We only slept about four hours before we got up, showered and were on the road again.

I'm not asking for all hotels to rent by the hour. I know that opens the doors to some shady clientele. But can a girl at least get a discount?

Loads of fun

2008-02-18T15:31:00.006-05:00

Well, we're back to the Mitten state and, aside from a slight case of midday drowsiness, I feel revitalized.

It's always nice hanging out with your pals and forget about daily stressors.

Unfortunately, I realized I forgot the memory card for my camera only after I whipped it out to take some pics. Hopefully, one of the girls will send some pics soon!

Thanks for letting us stay K!

A necessary blogging break

2008-02-13T22:22:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow I'm off on a road trip to VA with the girls!

Speaking on behalf of H, J and B, we're so pumped to see you K!

Can't wait.

I'm guessing I won't be blogging all that much until Mondayish - at which time I'm sure I'll have some new pics for my loyal blog readers!

Have a great weekend!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-13T22:17:00.004-05:00

I love you so much BP.

They are absolutely gorgeous!

(He got me the bouquet on the left!)

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

Wow. We're getting old.

2008-02-12T19:43:00.000-05:00

Remember how fun it was to wave a polaroid pic in your hands until an image magically appeared?!

Well, future generations will cease to have that experience. Apparently, Polaroid has announced it is going to stop making the instant cameras and film.

I know I haven't used one of these things in years but it still makes me sad to see it go.

My dog is human

2008-02-12T17:03:00.000-05:00

Thanks to H's heads-up, A, myself and Cooper watched a good hour of the Westminster Dog Show on TV last night.

I swear, Cooper watches the television like a human. For whole segments. It's amazing. Will your dog/cat watch TV? Specific shows?

Oh, and seriously how fun is it to watch the men and women trainers prance along with their pups?

New product alert!

2008-02-12T16:51:00.000-05:00

Hey blog readers. You have to check out this awesome new product that will help keep your computer monitors clean. Seems to work like a charm... Click here.

Saturday night movies

2008-02-10T11:34:00.000-05:00

A and I endulged in a movie marathon last night. We sat down to watch Elizabeth and Elizabeth: The Golden Age. My thoughts are as follows:

1) Cate Blanchett is truly amazing.
2) What great casts in both movies.
3) Joseph Fiennes is now on my list.
4) What a fabulous history lesson. (I'm sure it stayed fairly true to facts...)
5) I want to wear those dresses.
6) I'm eager to learn more about English/British monarchies.
7) I would never want to be queen of a country. She seemed so sad.
8) I'm so excited to visit London!

I think that's about it. Two thumbs up for both movies!

Bad work ethic?

2008-02-09T10:18:00.001-05:00

I was cleaning out my old files earlier this morning when I ran across a folder with pay stubs from all the jobs I worked at from 1999-2003. I must say, I don't remember working 12 jobs in four years! What a horrible employee! Can you say A.D.D.?

In case you don't believe me, here's a brief (and somewhat embarassing) rundown. I think they're in the proper order...

Employer: Thomas Edison Inn
Duration: 8 months (?)
Title: Hostess/Server

Employer: Port Huron Hospital
Duration: About 4 months
Title: Copy Queen

Employer: Western Herald
Duration: 2 years (with a 4 month break that allowed for the next three positions)
Title: Copy Editor

Employer: Meijer
Duration: 3 months
Title: Beauty section stockgirl

Employer: Kalamazoo County Chamber of Commerce
Duration: 4 months
Title: Marketing Intern

Employer: International Gilmore Keyboard Festival
Duration: 3 months
Title: PR Intern

Employer: CGI Communications
Duration: 2 weeks
Title: Professional map seller

Employer: Voyageur Restaurant
Duration: 3 months
Title: Server

Employer: Red Lobster
Duration: 6 months max
Title: Bartender

Employer: Reno's East (at MSU)
Duration: 1 month
Title: Server/Beer Bitch

Employer: Fore Lakes Golf Club
Duration: 4 months
Title: Server/Bartender

Employer: St. Clair County Community College
Duration: 2 stints equaling about a year
Title: Admin. Asst. in President's Office

... Professional jobs finally began at this point... Woohoo!

I can't believe I still had pay stubs on file for some of these. Amazing.

Were you a bit like me during your formative college years? Did you tend to job hop?

V-Day Gifts to Avoid

2008-02-08T11:51:00.000-05:00

For Him:

1. Soaps, lotions, potions, anything that smells like candy. Unless it's actually candy.

2. Flowers. He just doesn't understand why you would buy him something that he has to a) nurture and b) nurture. If you simply must, a cactus might pass--but remember, he wants a gift that can take care of itself.

3. Unfun tools. Yeah, he gets it. You want him to shovel the snow. Do not buy him a shovel to drive the point home. (Large noisemaking power tools excluded.)

4. Dinner. It's a blatant cop-out. Saving him the 80 bucks does not a romantic gesture make. A gift should come in a box. (Unless it is a kitty or a pup, which are other things you should not get him. See rule #2). (Uh-oh. I seem to remember a post yesterday in which I said A and I would probably go out for dinner... Perhaps I should re-think?)

5. An electric razor. If he wanted one, he would have bought it for himself (and of all the gadgets, this is not likely one he's coveting). Ask yourself: Do you want him to buy you a razor?

6. Boxer shorts. To men, they're truly utilitarian. No frills. No styles. (Same goes for socks.)

7. A tie. Dude, he's not your dad. So unless you plan to tie him up with it and give him his real present, ditch the old standard.

For Her:

1. Anything that even remotely implies that she is not physically perfect: gym memberships, Botox, diet plan subscriptions, self help books and the like.

2. A bathing suit. Unless it comes with a trip to the Bahamas, she does not want your input on this personal matter. What's more, you're likely to give her an anxiety attack when she thinks about trying it on (especially after the great binge/food fest with the in-laws that were the Holidays 2007).

3. Toys. Women usually do not want video games. We might occasionally like to kick your butt in Wii, but that does not mean we want Street Fighter II (or whatever game it is you're playing). Also, your avatar is lame.

4. Homemade coupons. Whether they're for dish duty, garbage duty, dinner, or something else, she's not likely to be impressed. Did your high school girlfriend even use hers?

5. A gift certificate. Step it up with something a little more personal--unless it's for 300 dollars and you can't wait to take her to the store and shop. All. Day.

6. Food. Unless you're the Iron Chef or Francois Payard, skip anything home-baked. When her friends ask what you got her for V-day, she does not want to have to regurgitate. Literally.

7. A magazine subscription. Bo-ring.

8. Tickets to the "big game." Hate to break it to you, but when she said she loved football, she was lying. Save the sports stuff for your buddies.

9. A DVD box set of your favorite show. You've both already seen every episode. It will just accumulate dust with the rest of the collection.

10. Same goes for CDs. Hello, iTunes.

11. Appliances. Every man has made this guffaw. Just because she says, "I need a new vacuum" does not mean you should buy her a vacuum.12. Any gift you once bought for an ex-girlfriend. She will find out--and punish you.

* From Yahoo.com

Will you celebrate?

2008-02-07T17:17:00.000-05:00

Are you celebrating Valentine's Day with your sweetie this year?

Any great gift ideas you'd like to share?

While I will not be with my sweetie (Can I get a woohoo to the Virginia road trip, girls?!), I'm thinking of making a crafty card like the one in the picture to the right. Then, when I give it to him, we'll look at each other just like that. Awwww.

In all seriousness, we'll probably do a nice dinner out. Josephine's was pretty darn yummy A...

I'm not so sure

2008-02-07T15:49:00.000-05:00

How fun!

(I chose to leave off my mug shot as well as most of you know what I look like.)

I'm not positive who all of these folks are...

But I'm totally ok if people actually think I look like any of them!

Thanks turtleparade and twopretzels!

To test it out, click here.

Super Tuesday

2008-02-05T14:07:00.000-05:00

A general FYI (because I was curious)... Twenty-four states are holding caucuses or primary elections on Super Tuesday, 2008. Blue denotes Democratic-only caucuses (3), Red illustrates Republican-only contests (2), and Purple represents states holding elections for both parties (19).

Contract Schmontract

2008-02-05T10:57:00.000-05:00

Per my usual routine (on the days I don't get to take the ipod to work...!), I was listening to the radio this morning. The topic of the segment was that there are actually brides out there who are now demanding that bridesmaids sign contracts to be in their weddings.

Some of the contracts include:

- You will not gain weight.
- You will not get your hair cut.
- You will not get any tattoos before the wedding.

Seriously? Since when did this become a sort of business transaction?

This is completely asinine! If someone were to ask me to sign such a thing, I'd be out of their wedding in a heartbeat. Isn't it about being close? Being friends? Being accepting of loved ones? Being happy they're part of your big day?

Good thing I have such wonderful friends:)

Moments of clarity

2008-02-05T10:51:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had moments of clarity in your life?

In my experience, they don't happen all that often. But when they do? What an amazing feeling.

Cheers!

How often do you clean out...

2008-02-04T15:20:00.000-05:00

... your medicine cabinet?

Apparently, I don't do it often enough. I just put a cough drop in my mouth that was best if used by March 2005.

Ew.

* Update: Seems to be working. Just tastes a little funny.

Food exploration

2008-02-04T09:11:00.000-05:00

I'm not what you call a food expert. The very idea of cooking used to actually scare me quite a bit. So, in an effort to expand my horizons and explore all there is out there, I've been making a conscious effort to try new things.

Every trip to the grocery store as of late, I've been trying to purchase at least one thing that I've never had before. Our last trip? Egg whites. (Seriously. I've never tried them.)

I'm not a huge egg person as it is, but, I must say, I was pleasantly surprised after I cooked up some scrambled eggs this weekend. I'd buy them again.

Once every 15 years is enough

2008-02-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

A and I went to a gigantic flea market this weekend in an effort to get out of the house, walk around, and not spend money.

I hadn't been to this particular place in at least 15 years - at which time I was uber-psyched to go home with an "authentically-signed" Isiah Thomas framed poster. (I swear it was my absolute most prized possession for at least three years...)

Anyway, it was a little less glamourous than I remembered. I mean, aside from the posh goose wardrobe line, the poufy sports jackets, the guns and the hordes of "designer" purses, I was a little disappointed.

Plus, I couldn't get over the fact that dog breeders cage up their pups and sell them there. Seemed so wrong that A and I nearly went home with another rascal.

All in all, I'm pretty sure I won't need to frequent that market for at least another 15 years.

Aaaaah!

2008-02-01T16:30:00.000-05:00

What happened to my Queen Bee?!

She's not even recognizable anymore!

Lil' Kim was so pretty when she started... This is truly upsetting.

A blessing in disguise?

2008-02-01T16:15:00.000-05:00

Is anyone else strangely enjoying this writer's strike? Just me?

I haven't thought about television nearly as much lately -

and I like that.

*I wish no ill will toward the writers. Just realizing and appreciating the change in my life.

Hooray!

2008-02-01T16:08:00.001-05:00

A and I have officially paid off our (his) credit card!

We officially have no credit debt... at least until we put Europe on our new card that is!

Either way, a celebration is certainly in order.

Here we come

2008-02-01T15:02:00.000-05:00

I'm all about trying out this Josephine's place tonight.

Mmmmm... crepes.

Thanks, Mr. Chairman, for recommending.

My next purchase

2008-02-01T09:39:00.001-05:00

Word on the street is that Bill Cosby will soon be putting out a rap album targeted to the black community. Yes. I did say rap album.

Known for his controversial comments regarding, in his opinion, the irresponsibility of black parents in not educating their children, this project is apparently going to be a positive and informational album targeted at that community.

Sounds enticing doesn't it?!

I just hope that he incorporates his awesome patchwork sweaters and a ton of Jello pudding into his videos!

Verdicts please

2008-01-31T12:04:00.000-05:00

Well fellow D-Towners and metro surburbanites. Did you watch Kwame's public address last night?

If so, what'd you think?

* My thoughts are in the comment section.

Not even close!

2008-01-31T11:59:00.000-05:00

I heard on the radio today that Victoria's Secret recently voted on the sexiest celebrity smile.

Their winner?

Wait for it...

Wait for it...

Ryan Seacrest.

Whhhhhhhhaaaaaaaattttt?

I thought Victoria's Secret was supposed to be the be-all, end-all of what is considered sexy. I don't think I'll ever think of the brand in the same way.

I found the story... Click here.

Ultimate Office Prank

2008-01-31T11:58:00.000-05:00

This is just tremendous.