Monday, December 25, 2006
Merry Christmas!
I hope this blog finds you and yours happy and safe. Please have a wonderfuly, blessed and joyous Christmas and New Year. To all of my friends and family, near and far: I LOVE YOU!! And thanks for everything you've done this year and for being a special part of my life. God truly is great.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Kitchen Wonders
This week I've tried cooking several new dishes and the results have been excellent both times! Last week, I made pork with a mustard sauce. Doesn't sound like a big deal except here's the thing: I don't eat pork. Bacon, yes, maybe even the occasional ham but I rarely eat pork and I've never made it before. So I made pork tenderloin pieces in a white wine-stone ground mustard sauce with egg noodles (Cooking Light, of course). Accompanied by roasted asparagus and baked apples. Delicious!
Last night I was more adventerous and made chicken tikka masala. Let me back up: when we were at The Fair a couple of weeks ago, Clay Pit (a local Indian restaurant) was there giving a cooking demo and the dish they were making was chicken tikka masala. Now, I love chicken tikka masala. It's really one of the few Indian dishes I've tried but I say stick with what you like. Problem is, it's in this really rich tomato-cream sauce. Not so healthy. But I looked at the recipe they handed out and they said you could substitute the heavy cream with plain, nonfat yogurt. So that's what I did! Granted, it wasn't quite as creamy as in the restaurant but it was still delicious and flavorful (at least, that's what Michael and Stephanie told me)! So really, it was chicken, yogurt, tomato sauce, only 2 T. of butter and spices. The spices were courtesey of Central Market, thank goodness! Did you know that WalMart wants $3.58 for a bottle of ground coriander?? I don't think so! I bought mine at the spice bar section at CM and only paid $0.13 and I still have more than enough for another round of cooking, maybe even two rounds! I bought all my weird spices (tumeric, garam masala, fenugreek) there--it's not so wasteful of money or spices this way!
That's my story for today. Michael's in DC until tomorrow night for work training so it's me and my little fuzzy boy. Cheers!
Last night I was more adventerous and made chicken tikka masala. Let me back up: when we were at The Fair a couple of weeks ago, Clay Pit (a local Indian restaurant) was there giving a cooking demo and the dish they were making was chicken tikka masala. Now, I love chicken tikka masala. It's really one of the few Indian dishes I've tried but I say stick with what you like. Problem is, it's in this really rich tomato-cream sauce. Not so healthy. But I looked at the recipe they handed out and they said you could substitute the heavy cream with plain, nonfat yogurt. So that's what I did! Granted, it wasn't quite as creamy as in the restaurant but it was still delicious and flavorful (at least, that's what Michael and Stephanie told me)! So really, it was chicken, yogurt, tomato sauce, only 2 T. of butter and spices. The spices were courtesey of Central Market, thank goodness! Did you know that WalMart wants $3.58 for a bottle of ground coriander?? I don't think so! I bought mine at the spice bar section at CM and only paid $0.13 and I still have more than enough for another round of cooking, maybe even two rounds! I bought all my weird spices (tumeric, garam masala, fenugreek) there--it's not so wasteful of money or spices this way!
That's my story for today. Michael's in DC until tomorrow night for work training so it's me and my little fuzzy boy. Cheers!
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Puppies of Cuteness!
These are my friend Ashley Rae's dogs, Ellie and Lucy. They're shih tzu/pomeranian mixes. How cute are they?!?!Wednesday, October 11, 2006
My Space
I'm totally addicted to My Space. At first, it was just a passing fancy, I thought I'd check it out, see what it was like...and I wasn't very impressed, mainly because it took about 30 miilion years for my old dial-up to upload one, single, solitary picture for me. So, I forgot about it for a while. Left it on a dusty shelf, if you will. Then Steph started harrowing me about my "closet" My Space account, which it really wasn't since the only thing on the entire page was my picture and basic info.: name, age, location, etc. I decided, therfore, that after I got high speed 'net, I would try this whole "My Space" thing again. Now I can't get enough. I've put up the maximum of allotted pictures, changed my background several times, updated my interests, set my slideshow and have now begun finding old college friends. I probably spend at least an hour a day working on this thing. I love My Space.
http://www.myspace.com/sunnyhuny1
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Sick Puppy
I took Sam to the vet on Thurs. b/c he had this scary-looking bump on his side that started looking worse as the week progressed, so, of course, I wanted to get it checked out. I took him to the Banfield (in Petsmart) near me, where Stephanie takes her Liberty and Oliver. Dr. Rachel was very nice, as were all the technicians and they drew some cells to have them analyzed. I also signed up for a wellness plan from them that covers vaccinations, dental cleaning, routine check-ups, office visits, etc. and they said, "hey, why don't you get these 4 shots since he hasn't had them and they're covered under your new wellness plan?" And I said, "sure, why not? It can't hurt him, right?" I was wrong. Not only did he cry and whine in pain when he actually got the shots but he also had an allergic reaction. At first, he was just lethargic and shaky but then he started whining when I picked him up and he wouldn't put any weight on one of his legs. So, I took him back that same afternoon. They said, "that's normal. Only worry about him if he starts vomiting or has diarrhea." Ok, so, I took him back home.
Fri. morning he had some diarrhea but I thought, "well, I DID give him wet food yesterday, I'm not too worried." So, I'm getting ready for work, putting my lipstick on and about to walk out the door, when he throws up on the bathroom floor. That freaks me out b/c it's all chunky and he's only ever vomited that foamy-looking stuff before (and even that's very rarely), so I call the vet, they tell me to bring him in. I bring Sam in for the 3rd time in 24 hours. They tell me he's having an allergic reaction and give him a shot for the nausea (which didn't really work, btw, since he threw up all over the bed about an hour later and then on the couch and floor again that night) and that I should give him Benadryl and Imodium and if he's still acting like this in 24 hours, to bring him in again.
Great, now I'm a basket case. I give him the meds but he throws up, so I'm not sure if they're in his system or not and I decide to wait a few hours to give him another dosage, since I don't want to over-medicate my dog! I put the Benadryl in peanut butter later--no dice. He doesn't want it. I put it in bread, turkey, a tortilla, cheese, yogurt--nothing. I call the vet; I have no idea what to do. They tell me to throw it in the back of his throat. That doesn't work out so well. He keeps spitting it out. And then he refuses to even open his mouth for me...now I can't pry his jaws open at all! I call Michael at work and tell him to come home ASAP, I'm at my wits end. He gets it in without many problems and we go buy some liquid children's Benadryl and a needle-less syringe, just in case (I didn't know that was an option since the vet's kept telling me to give him half a tablet, but whatever.)
Sam's fine now but I hardly ate or slept for 3 days b/c I was so worried about him. And he gets to get his boosters in 3 weeks. Lucky us. Oh, the god news is that his cyst is benign. Hooray!
Fri. morning he had some diarrhea but I thought, "well, I DID give him wet food yesterday, I'm not too worried." So, I'm getting ready for work, putting my lipstick on and about to walk out the door, when he throws up on the bathroom floor. That freaks me out b/c it's all chunky and he's only ever vomited that foamy-looking stuff before (and even that's very rarely), so I call the vet, they tell me to bring him in. I bring Sam in for the 3rd time in 24 hours. They tell me he's having an allergic reaction and give him a shot for the nausea (which didn't really work, btw, since he threw up all over the bed about an hour later and then on the couch and floor again that night) and that I should give him Benadryl and Imodium and if he's still acting like this in 24 hours, to bring him in again.
Great, now I'm a basket case. I give him the meds but he throws up, so I'm not sure if they're in his system or not and I decide to wait a few hours to give him another dosage, since I don't want to over-medicate my dog! I put the Benadryl in peanut butter later--no dice. He doesn't want it. I put it in bread, turkey, a tortilla, cheese, yogurt--nothing. I call the vet; I have no idea what to do. They tell me to throw it in the back of his throat. That doesn't work out so well. He keeps spitting it out. And then he refuses to even open his mouth for me...now I can't pry his jaws open at all! I call Michael at work and tell him to come home ASAP, I'm at my wits end. He gets it in without many problems and we go buy some liquid children's Benadryl and a needle-less syringe, just in case (I didn't know that was an option since the vet's kept telling me to give him half a tablet, but whatever.)
Sam's fine now but I hardly ate or slept for 3 days b/c I was so worried about him. And he gets to get his boosters in 3 weeks. Lucky us. Oh, the god news is that his cyst is benign. Hooray!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Why I Love The Fair
NEW FOOD ITEMS FOR THE 2006 STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
(These are the new items only--they don't include all the good ol' stuff like corn dogs and fried pickles with spicy ranch!)
Beef & Beans Fire Bowl – A fired-up, one-dish meal made from ground beef, spicy beans, corn, crushed red peppers and Hotter N Hell seasoning covered with a baked-on jalapeno cornbread top. Not for the weak-hearted.
Cajun Shrimp On A Stick – Spicy shrimp in a custom Cajun batter, fried and served with a choice of dipping sauce.
Candy Apple Turnover – A flaky turnover, filled with apples, crushed red candy and brown sugar, is deep fried and topped with powdered sugar.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries On-a-Stick – Fresh strawberries are skewered on a stick and dipped in deliciously warmed chocolate.
Cinnamon Praline Bananas Foster -- Caramelized banana rum sauce poured over Blue Bell Cinnamon ice cream, covered with whipped cream and topped off with a rich pecan praline sauce.
Deep Fried Cosmopolitan - Contest Finalist – A delicious fried pastry is filled with rich cheesecake and topped with a sweet & tangy cranberry glaze and a lime wedge. Served on a stick.
Donkey Tails - Contest Finalist – Large all-beef franks, slit on one side and generously stuffed with sharp cheddar cheese, are wrapped tightly in a large flour tortilla and fried until golden brown. Served with mustard, chili, or Ruth's salsa.
Down Home Banana Pudding Cheesecake – Created for people who like the rich flavor of homemade pudding or the elegance of cheesecake, the ingredients include bananas, pecans, cream cheese, brown sugar, coffee liqueur in a vanilla wafer crust. Served on a small plate.
Fernie's Fried Chicken n' Waffle – A toasted 7" round waffle, brushed with melted butter and topped with three extra-crunchy honey-battered chicken breast tenders. Served with syrup or white cream gravy. Sweet and salty.
Fernie's Fried Choco-rito - Contest Finalist – A flour tortilla – stuffed with marshmallows, coconut, candy bar pieces, caramel morsels and cinnamon – is dipped in pancake batter and deep fried to a crispy, crunchy outside and sweet, gooey inside. Drizzled with honey and topped with whipped cream.
Fernie's Fried Mac 'n Cheese - Contest Finalist – Texas-sized bites of macaroni & cheese, covered with a layer of garlic & herb-flavored bread crumbs, are deep fried until crispy outside and hot & cheesy inside. Served on a stick with a side of dipping sauces.
Fried Avocadoes – Hand-battered chunks of scrumptious avocado are breaded and fried to perfection. Choice of dipping sauces. A culinary hit in California.
Fried Baked Potatoes – French fries right out of the fryer are topped with a choice of queso cheese sauce, bacon bits, chives or butter.
Fried Cinnamon Crispas – Hand-cut strips of flour tortillas are crispy fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar.
Fried Coke - Contest Finalist – Smooth spheres of Coca-Cola-flavored batter are deep fried, drizzled with pure Coke fountain syrup, topped with whipped cream, cinnamon sugar and a cherry. Served in souvenir contoured glasses.
Fried Pancake Sundae – Tasty country sausage bites wrapped in a light pancake batter, deep fried to perfection , topped with whipped cream, lightly glazed with hot fudge sauce and finished with a cherry on top. Pineapple and strawberry glaze options available.
Fried Praline Perfection - Contest Finalist – Guaranteed to melt in your mouth. Plump coconut and pecan pralines, battered and fried to a rich golden crust. Served warm with powdered sugar.
Hast Texas BBQ Nachos – Fair-famous Hast Texas Nachos are topped with BBQ beef and covered with a special-recipe sauce.
Melon Monroe – Honey dew melon sauce ladled over chocolate chip ice cream, topped with whipped cream then garnished with two fried-dough, shaped "legs" filled with a special caramel sauce. Served fresh out of the fryer. "Some like it hot !"
S'mores – A new twist on a campfire favorite. Two graham crackers are pressed together with a marshmallow crème filling, skewered on a stick and dipped in delicious chocolate.
Texas Cajun Steak On-a-Stick – Tender morsels of steak coated in a spicy Cajun batter, fried golden brown and served on a stick with red or white dipping sauce.
Texas Waffle – An extra large waffle is freshly cooked and topped with whipped cream and a choice of chocolate, strawberry or pineapple sauce.
Texas Trash – In response to fairgoers' requests, this to-go sack of less-than-whole Hast Texas Nacho chips is served up in a white doughnut-style bag.
Wedgee's – Frozen chocolate-covered Wisconsin cheesecake-on-a-stick offered in Turtle (caramel) and Key Lime flavors.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Make New Friends But Keep The Old
Today I got an email from one on my old bosses and good friends, Christina. It was so good to hear from her! She was always more of a friend than a boss to me, which made my work life much more enjoyable. She now has a second son, David, which I'm so excited about! I remember when she was pregnant with Joey and I got to see him at the hospital the day after he was born--such a cute little guy! I'm only sorry that we're so much farther away from her now or I'd go and see her right away!
I start working at my new WS tomorrow. Pray that I meet some great people and enjoy the new management! I had such a great team at my old store and I miss them but I'm hoping my new team is just as wonderful. Stop by if you're in the Galleria, I just might be working! The demo area in my new store is quite a bit bigger than my old space so I'm hoping they remember how much I said I love doing demo. I think I'll print out some WS recipes today to show some initiative. Gotta go do some work around this place--I think Sam is calling my name to go outside!
4 days until the Fair, the Fair!
I start working at my new WS tomorrow. Pray that I meet some great people and enjoy the new management! I had such a great team at my old store and I miss them but I'm hoping my new team is just as wonderful. Stop by if you're in the Galleria, I just might be working! The demo area in my new store is quite a bit bigger than my old space so I'm hoping they remember how much I said I love doing demo. I think I'll print out some WS recipes today to show some initiative. Gotta go do some work around this place--I think Sam is calling my name to go outside!
4 days until the Fair, the Fair!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Cool Weather
The heat has finally subsided! Last I saw the weather this morning, it was a cool 67--that's amazing for middle-of-September Dallas weather! Yesterday couldn't have been prettier for Stephanie's moving day: it was sunny, but not hot, and there was even a little bit of a breeze. Of course, the night ended on a good note: a trip to IKEA! Hooray! Stephanie needed some CD/DVD holders (the same ones that we got--we've now spread the joy to both Becca and Steph) and a tv stand since her current one is a bit rickety. I hope everything is going ok at her new place; I haven't talked to her yet this morning...
Michael's new job is going well. He got his new laptop and case yesterday and had his first "real" workday. He also had to wear a tie and suit all day since he got his picture taken for the website (www.pattonboggs.com but the picture's not up as of this morning). He also had to do a draft of some sort of legal document (I don't remember what he said, sorry) that a partner wanted by this afternoon but he got it done yesterday late afternoon/evening! (Can you tell I'm proud of him?!) Oh, and he has a secretary! Her name is Bernice and he shares her with 2 other attorneys but still it's very fancy schmancy. And I'm sure she's nice and helpful. He does have his own office (with a window!) on the 28th floor but he'll only be there for 3 weeks, after that, they're moving him up to the 32nd floor so he's waiting to put pictures up and whatnot. Smart move, I think.
That's about it for now. I'm going to venture forth and try and find the closest Kohls today, I think. I also have some cleaning and wrapping of baby presents to do. Oh, and I start working at WS next Mon. so wish me luck that everything goes well with my new team!
10 days until The Fair!!!
Michael's new job is going well. He got his new laptop and case yesterday and had his first "real" workday. He also had to wear a tie and suit all day since he got his picture taken for the website (www.pattonboggs.com but the picture's not up as of this morning). He also had to do a draft of some sort of legal document (I don't remember what he said, sorry) that a partner wanted by this afternoon but he got it done yesterday late afternoon/evening! (Can you tell I'm proud of him?!) Oh, and he has a secretary! Her name is Bernice and he shares her with 2 other attorneys but still it's very fancy schmancy. And I'm sure she's nice and helpful. He does have his own office (with a window!) on the 28th floor but he'll only be there for 3 weeks, after that, they're moving him up to the 32nd floor so he's waiting to put pictures up and whatnot. Smart move, I think.
That's about it for now. I'm going to venture forth and try and find the closest Kohls today, I think. I also have some cleaning and wrapping of baby presents to do. Oh, and I start working at WS next Mon. so wish me luck that everything goes well with my new team!
10 days until The Fair!!!
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Ireland Photos
Powerscourt Gardens
Powerscourt Manor
Newgrange Passage Tomb
Guinness Factory
Christ Church Cathedral, DublinSunday, September 10, 2006
We're Baaaack!
Hello all,
Well, we survived 4 plane flights and the perils of jet-lag and being without luggage for a few days and are now back to an almost-normal life! Ireland was WONDERFUL!! So gorgeous, so green, so rural (outside of Dublin and Shannon, of course). I'll post pictures later when I'm on a faster connection. We both highly recommend visiting Ireland but only if you're going to be brave and drive around the countryside by yourself. You really can't see Ireland any other way. Once you get past the initial terror and nervousness of driving on the wrong side of the road (which only took us 1 day to get over!) you can revel in the joy of being able to stop wherever, and whenever, you want. You can get a million great pictures on your own (or, in our case, almost 800) and it's a very freeing sensation. I just can't believe we're back already. As all vacations go, after so much planning, it's over too quickly. I wonder where we'll go next...
We missed our adorable Sam, of course, but he says he had a grand old time with Aunt Stephanie, Aunt Bunny, Aunt Keri, Uncle Nathen, Gracie, Teeny and Sadie. Thank you for taking such good care of him!!
Michael got his diploma today and it says "High Honors" on it, which is FANTASTIC!! I can't wait to frame it and hang it in his office downtown! I call in to work on the 18th (yes, I transferred to another WS here until I figure out what I want to do next) and Michael starts on the 14th, so he'll have a very short first week. After sleeping all of yesterday away, Sam is now...sleeping...again...on our couch. Such is the life of a dog. Our upcoming events include: Stephanie's birthday (hooray!!!), packing/moving Steph, going to the Fair (the Fair, the Fair!), and then going to Sea World for our 2nd ticket day once it cools off a bit. Not sure how holidays are going to work yet with Michael's schedule. We'll see how that goes soon, I suppose.
Maybe I'll go swimming today...Slainte! (Slan-cha...Irish for cheers!)
Well, we survived 4 plane flights and the perils of jet-lag and being without luggage for a few days and are now back to an almost-normal life! Ireland was WONDERFUL!! So gorgeous, so green, so rural (outside of Dublin and Shannon, of course). I'll post pictures later when I'm on a faster connection. We both highly recommend visiting Ireland but only if you're going to be brave and drive around the countryside by yourself. You really can't see Ireland any other way. Once you get past the initial terror and nervousness of driving on the wrong side of the road (which only took us 1 day to get over!) you can revel in the joy of being able to stop wherever, and whenever, you want. You can get a million great pictures on your own (or, in our case, almost 800) and it's a very freeing sensation. I just can't believe we're back already. As all vacations go, after so much planning, it's over too quickly. I wonder where we'll go next...
We missed our adorable Sam, of course, but he says he had a grand old time with Aunt Stephanie, Aunt Bunny, Aunt Keri, Uncle Nathen, Gracie, Teeny and Sadie. Thank you for taking such good care of him!!
Michael got his diploma today and it says "High Honors" on it, which is FANTASTIC!! I can't wait to frame it and hang it in his office downtown! I call in to work on the 18th (yes, I transferred to another WS here until I figure out what I want to do next) and Michael starts on the 14th, so he'll have a very short first week. After sleeping all of yesterday away, Sam is now...sleeping...again...on our couch. Such is the life of a dog. Our upcoming events include: Stephanie's birthday (hooray!!!), packing/moving Steph, going to the Fair (the Fair, the Fair!), and then going to Sea World for our 2nd ticket day once it cools off a bit. Not sure how holidays are going to work yet with Michael's schedule. We'll see how that goes soon, I suppose.
Maybe I'll go swimming today...Slainte! (Slan-cha...Irish for cheers!)
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Condensed Version
Here's the condensed version of the last 48+ hours: plane from DFW to Chicago was late because of stupid air traffic controllers in Chicago. Bumped plane to an hour and a half late. Could possibly miss connecting flight b/c of this, so change flights. This flight also gets delayed but only leaves 10 min. after time of original flight. REALLY annoying people on flight to Dublin--spoiled loud preteens and whatnot. Arrive in Dublin. Luggage does not. Pretty much wear the same clothes and shower in the worst shower in the entire world for 2 days. Luggage arrives tonight at 8pm. Happy dance!!
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Ireland, Here We Come!
We leave tomorrow for the Emerald Isle! We are SO excited--please say some prayers that all legs of our flights go off (and land) smoothly!
This week has been a teensy bit hectic but it's all been fun. Well, 90% of it has been fun. The 10% that wasn't fun was that I got an ear infection on Tues. It hurt like the dickens both inside my ear and down the side of my neck, near my jawline, and it hurt to move my head in certain directions. After 2 days of pain, I decided that it was necessary to see the doctor for several reasons: 1.) I haven't had an ear infection since I was probably about 7 years old or so, 2.) my throat was hurting too, 3.) with flying I really didn't want my ears to be hurting beforehand, much less in the air with pressure and 4.) I remember why I hated ear drops so much as a kid. Not fun. So, I saw the doctor, got some antibiotics and a decongestant and have since finished taking the antibiotics (which is good because I'm apparently part of the 5% of people who get stomach pains, nausea and intestinal distress from this medicine).
The 90% fun stuff was, in this order,: 1.) our new chair-and-a-half and ottoman were delivered and we now have a real living room, 2.) almost all of our pictures and whatnot are hanging on the walls, 3.) we've ordered toll tags so we'll be able to get around Dallas even more easily when we get back, 4.) our washer and dryer got delivered!, 5.) I was told that I'm going to be working at the Williams-Sonoma in the Galleria, right by the apt.!, 6.) my dad came to visit for a couple of days, which is always fun (except I got my booty kicked in Scrabble and Upwords) and slightly boozy (LOL!) and 7.) Stephanie spent the night last night (there were plumbing issues at her house--it wasn't pretty) and we get Liberty Grace today.
Cheers to all and we'll be back in September!
This week has been a teensy bit hectic but it's all been fun. Well, 90% of it has been fun. The 10% that wasn't fun was that I got an ear infection on Tues. It hurt like the dickens both inside my ear and down the side of my neck, near my jawline, and it hurt to move my head in certain directions. After 2 days of pain, I decided that it was necessary to see the doctor for several reasons: 1.) I haven't had an ear infection since I was probably about 7 years old or so, 2.) my throat was hurting too, 3.) with flying I really didn't want my ears to be hurting beforehand, much less in the air with pressure and 4.) I remember why I hated ear drops so much as a kid. Not fun. So, I saw the doctor, got some antibiotics and a decongestant and have since finished taking the antibiotics (which is good because I'm apparently part of the 5% of people who get stomach pains, nausea and intestinal distress from this medicine).
The 90% fun stuff was, in this order,: 1.) our new chair-and-a-half and ottoman were delivered and we now have a real living room, 2.) almost all of our pictures and whatnot are hanging on the walls, 3.) we've ordered toll tags so we'll be able to get around Dallas even more easily when we get back, 4.) our washer and dryer got delivered!, 5.) I was told that I'm going to be working at the Williams-Sonoma in the Galleria, right by the apt.!, 6.) my dad came to visit for a couple of days, which is always fun (except I got my booty kicked in Scrabble and Upwords) and slightly boozy (LOL!) and 7.) Stephanie spent the night last night (there were plumbing issues at her house--it wasn't pretty) and we get Liberty Grace today.
Cheers to all and we'll be back in September!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Finally in Dallas!!!
WE'RE HERE!!!! Admittedly, we've been here for 1 week and 3 days so far but with the sluggishly slow dial-up that we currently have at home, surfing the 'Net has not been so very fun lately. We just finished eating at Atlanta Bread Co. and are using their fast (and free!) Internet--hooray!
Moving day went quite smoothly. Abracadabra Movers ("Poof! You're moved!") did an excellent job (loading us in in Austin at a rapid 1 hour and 15 min.) on both ends. I highly recommend them if you're moving from Austin to Dallas. Stephanie and Becca were troopers and helped me do some major unpacking before Michael ever got here. Much obliged, I'm sure. We only have a few boxes left and most of those are DVDs and CDs that have no home (we got rid of our holder that we had in Austin) and Michael's done a stellar job hanging up almost all of our stuff. Best of all, our chair and a half comes tomorrow!! And, hopefully, our washer and dryer will arrive as well! My dad comes to visit this Thurs.-Sat. so he'll be the first parent to see all of our new glory! And Sam got groomed today so he'll be nice and pretty for his grandpapa!
Stephanie and I have already hit Roomstore, Ikea, Target, Walmart, BJ's and Luna de Noche--I love my sister!! And when she moves she'll be even closer than before--so exciting! Also, everyone needs to be proud of me: I got to and from Steph's house in Plano this weekend for Kris' baby shower (love you, Kris!)--I'm a big girl now!
We leave for Ireland this upcoming Mon., the 28th and we'll get back on the 8th. If anyone can either take us to or pick us up from DFW airport, we'd be much obliged!!!! We're incredibly excited about our trip and now we're going horseback riding there too--something I was really wanting to do! (Seriously, doesn't a 90 min. mountain ride in the beautiful Irish countryside sound amazing??) So, we're getting all organized for that (spreadsheets and lists, anyone?) and trying not to get too stressed out.
That's all for now. Michael's going to kill my if I keep hogging the computer. Much love to everyone.
Moving day went quite smoothly. Abracadabra Movers ("Poof! You're moved!") did an excellent job (loading us in in Austin at a rapid 1 hour and 15 min.) on both ends. I highly recommend them if you're moving from Austin to Dallas. Stephanie and Becca were troopers and helped me do some major unpacking before Michael ever got here. Much obliged, I'm sure. We only have a few boxes left and most of those are DVDs and CDs that have no home (we got rid of our holder that we had in Austin) and Michael's done a stellar job hanging up almost all of our stuff. Best of all, our chair and a half comes tomorrow!! And, hopefully, our washer and dryer will arrive as well! My dad comes to visit this Thurs.-Sat. so he'll be the first parent to see all of our new glory! And Sam got groomed today so he'll be nice and pretty for his grandpapa!
Stephanie and I have already hit Roomstore, Ikea, Target, Walmart, BJ's and Luna de Noche--I love my sister!! And when she moves she'll be even closer than before--so exciting! Also, everyone needs to be proud of me: I got to and from Steph's house in Plano this weekend for Kris' baby shower (love you, Kris!)--I'm a big girl now!
We leave for Ireland this upcoming Mon., the 28th and we'll get back on the 8th. If anyone can either take us to or pick us up from DFW airport, we'd be much obliged!!!! We're incredibly excited about our trip and now we're going horseback riding there too--something I was really wanting to do! (Seriously, doesn't a 90 min. mountain ride in the beautiful Irish countryside sound amazing??) So, we're getting all organized for that (spreadsheets and lists, anyone?) and trying not to get too stressed out.
That's all for now. Michael's going to kill my if I keep hogging the computer. Much love to everyone.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Monday, August 07, 2006
T-Minus 6 Days and Counting (that's including today)
We're moving to Dallas! We're moving to Dallas! This thought hits me at the most random times, I swear. I had my last day at the Austin WS this past Sat. It was sad but we had a good time together. I got to work with some really great people (you know who you are!) and had a lot of laughs. My love to all!
Packing is coming along. I still feel like we have a ton to do but we still have 4 days to go so I guess we'll be ok. Our travel agent, Doug, emailed me on Fri. with our list of all our Ireland lodgings, minus one that he's still working on. Plus, we have our rental car now too! Things are chugging along in all aspects of our lives, it seems.
Cooking dinner is what's going on right now: Kung Pao Chicken, yummy! I'd better go before Michael burns down the kitchen. Again.
Packing is coming along. I still feel like we have a ton to do but we still have 4 days to go so I guess we'll be ok. Our travel agent, Doug, emailed me on Fri. with our list of all our Ireland lodgings, minus one that he's still working on. Plus, we have our rental car now too! Things are chugging along in all aspects of our lives, it seems.
Cooking dinner is what's going on right now: Kung Pao Chicken, yummy! I'd better go before Michael burns down the kitchen. Again.
Monday, July 31, 2006
So Happy Together
Michael's finally back!!! It's wonderful being together again, especially without the stupid Bar hanging over our heads. :) Now we wait until Nov. to find out the results, so keep praying! I did finally start packing on Fri. night and now our walls are mostly barren, sad! But we're moving in less than 2 weeks so it's ok!!! Hooray! Yesterday we went to the city pound--not to get a dog--just to see what cuties they had. We saw a little Yorkie who was adorable and he could jump incredibly high from a dead standstill. Cutie pie! I gave him some treats. Then we went to the new art museum on UT's campus, the Blanton. It was fun and pretty cheap and the gallery is beautiful. We got some dinner (mmm, Jersey Mike's) and played Smash Bros.--I even won--twice!
In very exciting news, my friend Jeremy and his new wife Molly (they got married last Oct.) had their twins!! Both are boys: Jacob James and Joseph Powers (Molly's maiden name). They were born pretty prematurely (i.e. supposed to be due in Aug./Sept. and Molly's been on full bed rest for 3 or 4 weeks now) and only weighed in at about 3-4 lbs. each, both have tubes up their tiny noses and down their throats and Joseph has an IV in his head. Both were in NICU as of 5 days ago so please keep this new family in your thoughts and prayers.
Love to all!
In very exciting news, my friend Jeremy and his new wife Molly (they got married last Oct.) had their twins!! Both are boys: Jacob James and Joseph Powers (Molly's maiden name). They were born pretty prematurely (i.e. supposed to be due in Aug./Sept. and Molly's been on full bed rest for 3 or 4 weeks now) and only weighed in at about 3-4 lbs. each, both have tubes up their tiny noses and down their throats and Joseph has an IV in his head. Both were in NICU as of 5 days ago so please keep this new family in your thoughts and prayers.
Love to all!
Saturday, July 22, 2006
The Bar Exam
The Bar Exam is finally upon us. Michael leaves for Houston tomorrow and then is taking The Bar this upcoming Tues.-Thurs., that's the 25th-27th. Almost surprisingly, we haven't killed each other yet. These past few weeks, well, few days, really, have taught me that there's stress and then there's stress. Michael was so nervous today that he made me nervous! Fluttery, clenching stomach, the whole nine yards. Just in the last 2 weeks, we've had to deal with, "my time of the month", studying, finding a mover, studying, me being sick and then more studying. If we haven't killed each other yet then I'm guessing we never will!! Now we just want this whole ordeal behind us so that we can move, go to Ireland and start our new lives in Dallas. He'll have the computer for a week so this will probably be my last blog for a while.
Say some prayers, please, that Michael passes with flying colors.
Say some prayers, please, that Michael passes with flying colors.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
'Za
| Cheese Pizza |
 Traditional and comforting. You focus on living a quality life. You're not easily impressed with novelty. Yet, you easily impress others. |
I Hate Being Sick
It all started about 2 days ago...suddenly, I started sneezing and sneezing. Then my sinuses started hurting and the coughing began. Now I have a full-blown mini sinus infection: sinus pressure, headache, coughing, cracked nose and lips and I'm alternating between having a stuffy nose and a runny nose. So today I've been drinking my tea and going through old magazines, which is productive since I've been wanting to do this for a while and continue on my de-cluttering process. Unfortunately, it always takes me a week to get over these, no matter how poorly I feel. Sad. Oh well, it could be worse--I could feel this way in 2 weeks when the moving insanity really begins! There's my silver lining.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
SO HOT
Today is one of those days where you just feel like you can't cool down at all. I have to say that I'm surprised that it took this long to feel this way. It is already the middle of July, after all. Today it's supposed to be a heat index of 106. Last night, at 10pm, it was still 95; now that's hot! This makes me more and more glad that we've hired movers to do all the sweating and schlepping. Speaking of which, here's my desperate plea for money: if you have any just laying around, that you happen to not need for whatever reason, feel free to send it to us! I don't really expect anyone to respond to this, it's just my way of slowly going crazy.
And what have I decided to do this hottest of all hot days? You know, the usual: lug boxes in 3 or 4 trips from WS to my steaming car and do all of the laundry--not in the air conditioned paradise of my apt., of course, but meandering my way across the parking lot multiple times.
Enjoy your day and I hope that wherever you are, you're cool!
And what have I decided to do this hottest of all hot days? You know, the usual: lug boxes in 3 or 4 trips from WS to my steaming car and do all of the laundry--not in the air conditioned paradise of my apt., of course, but meandering my way across the parking lot multiple times.
Enjoy your day and I hope that wherever you are, you're cool!
Everyone Should Take This Test!!
| You Are Likely a First Born |
 At your darkest moments, you feel guilty. At work and school, you do best when you're researching. When you love someone, you tend to agree with them often. In friendship, you are considerate and compromising. Your ideal careers are: business, research, counseling, promotion, and speaking. You will leave your mark on the world with discoveries, new information, and teaching people to dream. |
I Think I'm Officially Addicted to These Things
| You Are Strawberry Ice Cream |
 A bit shy and sensitive, you are sweet to the core. You often find yourself on the outside looking in. Insightful and pensive, you really understand how the world works. You are most compatible with chocolate chip ice cream. |
Cookie
| You Are a Black and White Cookie |
 You're often conflicted in life, and you feel pulled in two opposite directions. When you're good, you're sweet as sugar. And when you're bad, you're wicked! |
Monday, July 17, 2006
Totally True
| You Are a Frappacino |
 At your best, you are: fun loving, sweet, and modern At your worst, you are: childish and over indulgent You drink coffee when: you're craving something sweet Your caffeine addiction level: low |
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
I'm Home!
Well, I'm back in hot (but not humid like my last day in StL) Austin! I've been reunited with Michael and Sam and all is right with my world again! Michael is studying furiously for the Bar (he takes it July 25th-27th for those who want to know--prayers are greatly appreciated) and I'm trying to get everything in order and organized for the upcoming move. Not all in one day, of course.
I had a great time in St. Louis, spending it with my family, and can now post my fireworks pictures!! These were taken literally in our front yard--Mom can attest to this! Enjoy!
Addendum
Unfortunately, I did NOT get to eat Ted Drewes. This is very sad news, I know.
However, I DID: shop 'til I almost literally dropped, went to the Art Museum and Zoo with my family and saw Pirates 2. Yarrrr!!
However, I DID: shop 'til I almost literally dropped, went to the Art Museum and Zoo with my family and saw Pirates 2. Yarrrr!!
Sunday, July 09, 2006
I Think I Am Slowly Eating My Way Through St. Louis
I have had so much good food here in the past week, it's unreal. Here are the places I can remember and what I had to eat:
St. Louis Bread Co. (aka Panera) -- turkey sandwich
Einstein's Bagels -- 1/2 turkey sanwich and salad
Sweet Tomatoes (similar to Fresh Choice) -- 'nuff said, I ate 'til I popped!
Zapata's -- cheese enchiladas and lots of margaritas! (I'm still surprised I didn't have even the smallest hangover the next morning...)
Lewis and Clark's in St. Charles (I think they tout it as "An American Restaurant and Public House") -- turkey sandwich and fries!
Cecil Whittaker's -- possibly some of the best pizza in the world!! Thin crust and made with provel cheese (a mix of cheddar, swiss and provolone, perhaps with some mozzerella as well, for you non-St. Louisans), reminds me of my childhood. I had bacon and green pepper 'za.
Today we're having MOM'S DELI for lunch!!!! I'm so excited! I always get the Mom's Special on french bread with everything except tomatoes. And sometimes no gravy. Always eat it hot, when possible. If you live in or near St. Louis and you haven't been there yet, go now! It's in South County/City at 4412 Jamieson Ave. Look how easy I just made it for you!
Hopefully, we're also having Ted Drewes today. Drewes is known for their frozen custard and concretes. A StL fave and right around the corner from Mom's Deli, a major plus! I usually get The Big Apple--a concrete with vanilla ice cream and a slice of real apple pie mixed in. Topped with whipped cream and a cherry, of course. On summer nights, the place is packed and people open their trunks to sit, chat and eat Drewes.
The only place left to hit on my list of StL faves is Pasta House. I need their amazing salad and lasagna. I can never eat it all. Maybe I should make sure to go there tomorrow for lunch and then I can have the leftovers before I leave on Tues....
Weight Watchers is going to hate me.
St. Louis Bread Co. (aka Panera) -- turkey sandwich
Einstein's Bagels -- 1/2 turkey sanwich and salad
Sweet Tomatoes (similar to Fresh Choice) -- 'nuff said, I ate 'til I popped!
Zapata's -- cheese enchiladas and lots of margaritas! (I'm still surprised I didn't have even the smallest hangover the next morning...)
Lewis and Clark's in St. Charles (I think they tout it as "An American Restaurant and Public House") -- turkey sandwich and fries!
Cecil Whittaker's -- possibly some of the best pizza in the world!! Thin crust and made with provel cheese (a mix of cheddar, swiss and provolone, perhaps with some mozzerella as well, for you non-St. Louisans), reminds me of my childhood. I had bacon and green pepper 'za.
Today we're having MOM'S DELI for lunch!!!! I'm so excited! I always get the Mom's Special on french bread with everything except tomatoes. And sometimes no gravy. Always eat it hot, when possible. If you live in or near St. Louis and you haven't been there yet, go now! It's in South County/City at 4412 Jamieson Ave. Look how easy I just made it for you!
Hopefully, we're also having Ted Drewes today. Drewes is known for their frozen custard and concretes. A StL fave and right around the corner from Mom's Deli, a major plus! I usually get The Big Apple--a concrete with vanilla ice cream and a slice of real apple pie mixed in. Topped with whipped cream and a cherry, of course. On summer nights, the place is packed and people open their trunks to sit, chat and eat Drewes.
The only place left to hit on my list of StL faves is Pasta House. I need their amazing salad and lasagna. I can never eat it all. Maybe I should make sure to go there tomorrow for lunch and then I can have the leftovers before I leave on Tues....
Weight Watchers is going to hate me.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
SURPRISE!!!
Surprise, I'm in St. Louis! I flew in yesterday to surprise my mom for her birthday, which is tomorrow. Only my uncle and my grandma knew that I was coming in (well, my dad, knew but not specifics). Anyway, Uncle John picked me up and we drove home, where mom was standing in the driveway (there was a suspicious-looking pest control truck outside), aand I just peeked out the window and waved "HI!". She was so surprised, it was GREAT! Then she hugged me and cried and hugged me some more....now that's a good surprise! So, I'm here for a week and I'll try to blog as much as I can but I can't promise anything!
Happy 4th of July everyone, be safe!
Happy 4th of July everyone, be safe!
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Knit One, Purl Two
I've decided to start knitting, once again. I say, "once again" because I have actually knitted before...shocking, I know! My best friend Kristy taught me how to do this at one point in my life. I wanted to pick it up again but could not seem to find all of my knitting paraphenalia (i.e. yarn, needles...well, that's pretty much it) in the depths of my parents' house. So, I have started anew.
Luckily, my friend Katy from WS loves to knit and proceeded to come over and get me started last night. I have this wonderful new yarn that bright fuschia, purple, turquoise, green and blue (it's really not garish, I promise) and will look excellent as a scarf. That's what I'm currently creating, a scarf. I also got some soft yellow yarn today to make my Grandma B. a scarf for Christmas. I'm crossing my fingers that: 1. she would like a yellow scarf and 2. I don't lose momentum and creative energy to get this done before Christmas.
It's actually kind of relaxing, once you get the hang of it.
Luckily, my friend Katy from WS loves to knit and proceeded to come over and get me started last night. I have this wonderful new yarn that bright fuschia, purple, turquoise, green and blue (it's really not garish, I promise) and will look excellent as a scarf. That's what I'm currently creating, a scarf. I also got some soft yellow yarn today to make my Grandma B. a scarf for Christmas. I'm crossing my fingers that: 1. she would like a yellow scarf and 2. I don't lose momentum and creative energy to get this done before Christmas.
It's actually kind of relaxing, once you get the hang of it.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
I *Heart* Samuel Troy
For those of you who don't know, Sam (see below) is my precious "baby" boy. Some people get upset if I call my dog my baby, hence the clarification. I found him on www.petfinder.com (see link to the right) in Jan. of 2004. We'd been looking for a dog for a little while and I fell in love with his picture. He was so scruffy then that we didn't even know he had spots on his tummy and legs until we got him groomed for the first time! I digress. I asked Michael what he thought and said, "he's kinda ugly." I was shocked!! I persisted and we went to the rescue group where he was being fostered (shout out to Barbara at Westie & Eskie Rescue--we love you!) to meet him. He was kind of shy at first and didn't really want to play. Needless to say, we pretty much decided then and there that we wanted to take him home, even though we waited a bit to tell Barbara. We picked him up on Jan. 24th and that's now his birthday.
Sam always makes me happy. It doesn't matter if he's snuggling with me on the couch, sleeping in his bed, perching on top of the couch (one of his favorite spots b/c he can see out the window) or sitting and staying for a treat. Now, granted, he's the first dog I've ever had, but I love him to bits and pieces! I don't know what I'm going to do when we go to Ireland for 10 days later this summer!!! He came housebroken (whew!) and has always been very gentle. Plus, he's great with kids! They'll come up to pet him and he'll just sit and let them do so--what a good boy!
I do still want another dog, though. Let me clarify: I want another rescue dog. Preferably a girl but I'll take a boy (too). But Michael won't let me get another one until we're in a place with a yard. I agree, it's only fair. 2 people + 2 dogs in an apt. just won't work! There are so many dogs out there who need someone to love them. They could be at the pound or a shelter or a rescue group. Maybe they got lost or maybe they're homeless and they don't have anywhere to go or maybe their owner didn't want the responsibility anymore...whatever. Rescue dogs are great and I truly believe that they know where they were and where they are now and they're so grateful and appreciative, you can see it in their eyes. I *heart* my rescue dog.
That's my soapbox for tonight. Love to all.
Sam always makes me happy. It doesn't matter if he's snuggling with me on the couch, sleeping in his bed, perching on top of the couch (one of his favorite spots b/c he can see out the window) or sitting and staying for a treat. Now, granted, he's the first dog I've ever had, but I love him to bits and pieces! I don't know what I'm going to do when we go to Ireland for 10 days later this summer!!! He came housebroken (whew!) and has always been very gentle. Plus, he's great with kids! They'll come up to pet him and he'll just sit and let them do so--what a good boy!
I do still want another dog, though. Let me clarify: I want another rescue dog. Preferably a girl but I'll take a boy (too). But Michael won't let me get another one until we're in a place with a yard. I agree, it's only fair. 2 people + 2 dogs in an apt. just won't work! There are so many dogs out there who need someone to love them. They could be at the pound or a shelter or a rescue group. Maybe they got lost or maybe they're homeless and they don't have anywhere to go or maybe their owner didn't want the responsibility anymore...whatever. Rescue dogs are great and I truly believe that they know where they were and where they are now and they're so grateful and appreciative, you can see it in their eyes. I *heart* my rescue dog.
That's my soapbox for tonight. Love to all.
3 Little Puppies, All in a Row
Leave us alone, we're trying to sleep!(L to R: Oliver Constantine, Liberty Grace and Samuel Troy)
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Williams-Sonoma
So I have to leave for work in about 15 min. or so. I love my job, I really do, and the people I work with are great. And I've probably made more friends since working there in the last 8+ months than I have in the rest of the 2+ years that I've lived here. My coworkers always make the days fun and we do get to laugh quite a bit but sometimes I hate the hours. Take today, for instance: 3-7pm. That's just a weird time to work, plus it kind of ruins my evening a bit, not that I would be doing anything that intersting anyway, but still, you get the picture. Thank goodness Michael can cook because I usually don't feel like doing so after dishing out samples to greedy people (adults and children alike) for 4 or 5 hours. You wouldn't even believe what some people will do for a cake sample. All I'm going to say is, my personal space has been invaded...more than once. The worst days are when I'm scheduled 11-4 or 12-5, it just throws my whole day off-kilter. Do I eat breakfast before I leave or lunch? Do I run errands before work or after? Stuff like that. But, like I said, the people I work with are great and most of the friends I've made here in Austin are through work or through their friends. Good times, good times.
On a more exciting note: we got approved for our Dallas apt. today!!! Our complex here finally faxed them back (after being faxed 3 times by our new place, but whatever) and now it's a done deal! We think Aug. 12 will be our move-in date but that still needs to be nailed down completely.
Gotta go. Makeup calls.
On a more exciting note: we got approved for our Dallas apt. today!!! Our complex here finally faxed them back (after being faxed 3 times by our new place, but whatever) and now it's a done deal! We think Aug. 12 will be our move-in date but that still needs to be nailed down completely.
Gotta go. Makeup calls.
Monday, June 26, 2006
*Deep breath* Here I go...
Ok, so, people have been telling me for a while now that I ought to start a blog. "Why?", you may be wondering, well, here's how I see it:
1. I'm an English major. Therefore, I like to write and "talk". I like both of those activities quite a bit...in fact, truth be told, I'm a bit of a gossip sometimes.
2. I have a lot of free time. Yes, I love working at Williams-Sonoma (and the discounts aren't bad either!) but I'm not exactly tied down to my job, except for 15-20 hours every week. And I do have quite a bit to do around the house (knitting, collecting recipes and ideas for a future home, along with other various projects) but still, you get the idea. Also, with the iminent move to Dallas (hooray!!!), I'm not sure what the work situation will be like once we get there.
3. I have friends and family all over the country and now they can keep up with me and my exciting life!
4. Where better to post adorable pictures of Samuel Troy???
So there you go for now. Please feel free to comment and question at will and I'll do my best to keep up with this thing!!
1. I'm an English major. Therefore, I like to write and "talk". I like both of those activities quite a bit...in fact, truth be told, I'm a bit of a gossip sometimes.
2. I have a lot of free time. Yes, I love working at Williams-Sonoma (and the discounts aren't bad either!) but I'm not exactly tied down to my job, except for 15-20 hours every week. And I do have quite a bit to do around the house (knitting, collecting recipes and ideas for a future home, along with other various projects) but still, you get the idea. Also, with the iminent move to Dallas (hooray!!!), I'm not sure what the work situation will be like once we get there.
3. I have friends and family all over the country and now they can keep up with me and my exciting life!
4. Where better to post adorable pictures of Samuel Troy???
So there you go for now. Please feel free to comment and question at will and I'll do my best to keep up with this thing!!
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