Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Crossword Addict

I love doing the daily crossword. My obsession started in Bellingham, when BFF Crystal and I would go get dumplings at Pel Meni, and we would look over the Cascadia Weekly while we waited for our food to get ready. Our ritual would be to read our horoscopes, and to do the crossword puzzle. Soon it became "crosswords with crystal". Since then we've recruited Leah, and even on occasion Chad. We have our own house rules when doing the crossword: we each get a life line. Pre dating, mine would always be Chad, he just seems to know it all, it's sickening. Leah likes to "cheat" and have many more lifelines than Crystal and I approve of. We're kinda sticklers about it. I think it makes me feel less of a cheater for even having "lifelines".
I am by no means good at the crosswords. I'd like to believe it doesn't actually measure one's intellect, but if I do poorly I feel pretty stupid.
Get a friend, a couple of pencils and the daily crossword. Give it a go. I guarantee lots of interesting conversation and lots of laughs.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

My BFFs.



This was taken the night before my wedding.  These are all of my BFFs in one place.  They treated me like a princess and let me have my bridezilla moments with no complaints.  I love these girls.  

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Bean balls. Yes, bean balls.

On one of my many insomniac nights I stumbled on this website that got my attention. With great blogs like that I can skip through the instructional text and just jump right to the pictures. In a nut shell, Creek Bed Threads was telling me I can go from this:
to this:


with beans and a hot glue gun. Seems simple enough, so I decided to give it a try. I went out and bought a styrofoam ball and some white beans and on another insomniac night I began the tedious job of glueing beans onto a styrofoam ball:
At that point, I realized it was going to be quite the commitment to glue all those little beans onto the big styrofoam ball. I started a movie and got to work. One hour into it, I almost quit. I was a little discouraged, not only did it take me one hour to do a so little, but it was also looking a bit shabby:

I wasn't sleepy yet, so I decided to keep going. Two hours later:


And then I thought: Did I really just spend TWO hours hot glueing beans on a styrofoam ball?? I wasn't even done. I decided that it was not ok to be awake hot glueing white beans on styrofoam for longer than two hours (fine I did it for three, but no longer than that, honest!). But I did note that it was starting to look ok.
The next day Leah came over and was quite fascinated by the whole thing, she took over the task of finishing the ball....
Not bad...a couple more different sizes, different beans, and I've got a centerpiece. Why do things like this make me happy? I'm such a dork.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

"ALCOHOLOROSCOPES"

I stumbled on this email that My good friend Nina sent me in 2006. I'm not sure if anyone else can identify with these, but mine's pretty damn spot on. (I'm a scorpio...) Hope you're as entertained by this as i was. Thanks Nina.
"Alcoholoroscopes"

SCORPIO (Oct 24 - Nov 21)

Drinking style: Don't ever tell Scorpios they've had enough, for they'll smirk at you and quietly but intentionally keep tippling till they're hog-whimpering drunk, out of 100-proof spite. Scorpios like to drink, and screw you if you have a problem with that. Most of them see the sauce as something to savor in itself, and not as a personality-altering tool - though if depressed, self-loathing Scorps seek total obliteration. But generally, they're fascinating drinking pals, brilliant conversationalists and dizzying flirts. They also remember everything -- especially what you did when you were blitzed. Only drink with a Scorpio who likes you.

ARIES (Mar 21- Apr 19)

Drinking style: Impulsive Aries people like to party and sometimes don't know when to call it a night. Their competitive streak makes them prone to closing-time shot contests. They're sloppy, fun drunks, and they get mighty flirty after a couple tipples. Getting Aries people drunk is a good way to get what you want out of them, should other methods fail. Aries can become bellicose when blotto, but they will assume that whatever happened should be forgiven (if not forgotten) by sunrise. They can be counted on to do the same for you -- so long as you haven't gone and done anything really horrible to them last night, you sneaky Gemini.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Drinking style: Taurus prefers to drink at a leisurely pace, aiming for a mellow glow rather than a full-on zonk. Since a truly intoxicated Taurus is a one-person stampede, the kind of bull-in-a-china-shop inebriate who spills red wine on white carpets and tells fart jokes to employers, the preference for wining and dining (or Bud and buddies) to body shots and barfing is quite fortunate for the rest of us. This is not to say that the Bull is by any means a teetotaler -- god, no. A squiffy Taurus will get, er, gregarious (full of loudmouth soup, some would say) and is extremely amusing to drag to a karaoke bar when intoxicated.

GEMINI (May 21 - Jun 21)

Drinking style: Gemini's can drink without changing their behavior much--they're so naturally chatty and short-attention-spanned that it's just hard to tell sometimes. They can amaze you by conversing with finesse and allusion, then doing something unbelievable in an extremely advanced state of intoxication, like puking in your shoe. Gemini's possess the magic ability to flirt successfully (and uninfuriatingly, which is very tricky) with several people at once. They like to order different cocktails every round -- repetition is boring -- and may create a theme (like yellow drinks: beer, sauvignon blanc and limoncello) for their own amusement.

CANCER (Jun 22 - Jul 22)

Drinking style: Cancer is a comfort drinker -- and an extra wine with dinner or an after-work beer or six can be extra comforting, can't it, Cancer darling? Like fellow water signs Scorpio and Pisces, Crabs must guard against lushery. Cancers are brilliant at ferreting out secret parties and insinuating themselves on VIP lists -- and, in true Hollywood style, Cancers are never really drunk; instead, they get "tired and emotional" (read: weepy when lubricated). But there's nothing better than swapping stories (and spit) over a few bottles of inky red wine with your favorite Cancer. Even your second-favorite Cancer will do. The sign also rules the flavor vanilla, and you'd be adored if you served up a vanilla vodka and soda.

LEO (Jul 23 - Aug 22)

Drinking style: Leo likes to drink and dance -- they're often fabulous dancers, and usually pretty good drinkers as well, losing their commanding dignity and turning kittenish. Of course, they're quite aware they're darling - Leos will be Leos, after all. They generally know their limit, probably because they loathe losing self-control. When they get over-refreshed, expect flirting to ensue -- and perhaps not with the one who brought them. But Leo's not the type to break rules even when drunk, so just try to ignore it (try harder, Cancer) and expect a sheepish (and hung over) Lion to make it up to you the next day.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sept 22)

Drinking style: Cerebral Virgos are compelled to impose order onto their bender. Their famously fussy quest for purity could lead to drinking less than other signs, sure -- but it could also lead to drinking booze neat, to sucking down organic wine or just to brand loyalty. They rarely get fully shellacked -- but, oh, when they do! Virgo's controlled by the intellect, but there's an unbridled beast lurking within, and they let it loose when walloped. It's dead sexy (and surprisingly unsloppy). As one Virgo friend used to declare, "I'm going to drink myself into a low level of intelligence tonight." A toast to the subgenius IQ!

LIBRA (Sept 23 - Oct 23)

Drinking style: "I'm just a social drinker," slurs Libra, "it's just that I'm so damn social." Libra loves nothing more than to party, mingle and relate to everyone. Whether dipped in favor of Good Libra (with Insta-Friend device set to "on") or heavier on the Evil Libra side (they are little instigators when bored), the Scales can really work a room. Charming as they are, Libras are notoriously lacking in self-control, however, which can get them into all sorts of trouble -- including wearing their wobbly boots waaaay too early in the evening, flirting with their best friend's beau or even blacking out the night's events entirely. Oops!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Drinking style: In vino veritas -- and, for Sagittarius, in booze blurtiness: When buttered, they'll spill all your secrets and many of their own. Tactlessness aside, Sagittarius is just plain fun to drink with. This is a sign of serious partying (what else would you expect from the sign of Sinatra, Keith Richards, the Bush twins and Anna Nicole Smith?). They're the people who chat up everyone in the room, then persuade the entire crowd to travel somewhere else -- like a nightclub, or a playground, or Cancun. Good-natured hi-jinks are sure to ensue (including a high possibility of loopy groping; spontaneous Sag is a brilliant booty call).

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Drinking style: Capricorn is usually described as practical, steadfast, money-hungry and status-thirsty -- no wonder they get left off the astrological cocktail-party list. But this is the sign of David Bowie and Annie Lennox, not to mention Elvis. Capricorn is the true rock star: independent, powerful and seriously charismatic, not too eager to please. And if they make money being themselves, who are you to quibble? But just like most rock stars, they're either totally on or totally off, and they generally need a little social lubricant to loosen up and enjoy the after party, especially if they can hook up with a cute groupie.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Drinking style: Aquarius and drinking don't go together that well (except for water, that is). They have an innate tendency toward know-it-allism, and if they get an idea while sizzled, they're more stubborn than a stain or a stone. If they're throwing a party or organizing an outing, however, they're too preoccupied with their duties to get combative and they make perfectly charming drunks in that case. Fortunately, they're usually capital drink-nursers. They also make the best designated drivers (if you can get them before they start raising their wrist) Aquarius is fascinated by drunk people and capable of holding interesting conversations with soused strangers while sober.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Drinking style: If you're a Pisces, you've probably already heard that you share a sign and an addictive personality -- with Liz Taylor, Liza Minelli and Kurt Cobain. Not only do Pisces like to lose themselves in the dreamy, out-there feeling that only hooch can give, but they build up a mighty tolerance fast. Who needs an expensive date like that? On the other hand, they're fabulously enchanting partners, whether in conversation or in crime. With the right Pisces, you can start out sharing a pitcher of margaritas and wind up in bed together for days. The phrase "addictive personality" can be read two ways you know.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

my husband and my dream house.

As far as husbands go, I think I hit the jackpot. Of course, that's my COMPLETELY biased opinion; but it's hard to deny that he is pretty awesome. When we first started "dating" I would actually get upset at the fact that he was good at everything. On more than one occasion I thought, is there anything he can't do? Now that we're married, I still get annoyed from time to time at his many skills, but I can also use some of these to my advantage ; )
For example: One day Chad will be able to build me my dream house.
From scratch!! Exactly the way we ( I ) want it.
That alone is reason enough to keep him around.
I've been able to visualize the rooms that I really want, no, need, in my house. There's the basic ones that have to be fabulous:
  • THE KITCHEN: with many built in shelves, cupboards, gas burners, island, custom countertops, mosaic backsplash (maybe), and the best appliances...to name a few of the essentials. And I want everything to be be multi functional. I want one countertop that is a huge cutting board...or something like that.
  • THE BATHROOM: it doesn't have to be big. Just as long it has a great shower head (maybe even the rain type that is on the ceiling) an amazing tub something like this (found this on the internet somewhere):


Some others I found on the internet that I like:


(sorry got a little carried away with the bathtub pictures)

I guess those are the basic rooms that most people would have in their homes (pretty standard, kitchen and bathroom) but then I would need some additional rooms:
  • My Craft Room: I've got so many craft things. It's a little insane. I've been carrying them around in this little cart thing:

But I need a craft room. Yes, a room dedicated solely to my craft needs. Something along the lines of this:
AND i found this brilliant idea of hanging screw top jars from a shelf for storage.
(I wouldn't be storing teas, although the way this person has it set up is cute...if you like that sort of thing).
  • Glass blowing room: YEs, aside from the craft room, I need a glass blowing room, ok, my talented chad could somehow fashion a room that has another section for glass blowing, with a hood for ventilation and somewhat a garage/workshop feel. Actually, that would be a great idea. A room that is somehow sectioned for my all my craft needs.
  • a Dark Room: I've always wanted a dark room. I know we're in the age of digital, but I'll have a dark room for my 35mm and for the digital printing.
I think those are all the rooms that I have to have in this dream house of mine. Of course, my chad can have his recording studio somewhere in this house and whatever his needs are, as long as he gets these rooms in there.
My dream house is going to be FABULOUS. I know it will be years till this will be done, but when it is i doubt i'll ever step outside again.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Jerry O'Connell.

I try to stay out of celebrity gossip. I'll reluctantly admit to buying an US weekly here and there, but for the most part, when I find myself in the midst of a conversation about celebrities, I have to step back and put an end to the conversation quickly, because I refuse to fill my time talking about celebrities drama.
With that being said, this post is going to be just about celebrities, three in particular. John Stamos, Rebecca Romijn, and Jerry O'Connell...and all their drama. So if you can't stomach the celebrity talk, consider this your fair warning.
You know what...I can't do it. I can't bring myself to write a whole post on this. (or anymore than I already have) I'll just spit this out: Didn't used to like Jerry, now I do. Very charming. Look up some talk shows he's been on. Funny guy. Ok, must stop.

The Evolution of UFC.

I strongly dislike UFC and WEC. I just don't like watching people beat another person to a bloody pulp.  When I was young my dad got us into WWF: World Wrestling Federation.









The "OG". When it was still:















(They had to give up their name to World Wildlife Fund):
(Hee hee)










We faithfully watched Macho Man, Hulk Hogan, the British Bulldogs, Andre the Giant, Tito Santana, Bret Hart, Stone Cold Steve Austin.......and on and on. I actually can't believe how easy those names came to me. I remember when my dad took my brother and I to go see a WWF match. I must have been 9 or 10; It was one of those larger than life experiences. We were so excited that we were actually watching Hulk Hogan live. They were nose bleed seats, but we didn't care. In that moment we were the coolest kids we knew, and we had the foam finger to prove it. I have no idea why in the world we would get sucked into the horrible soap opera that was WWF. It was my UFC, I guess. I decided to look up some old WWF footage on YouTube. Oh. My. Goodness. See for yourself:


I couldn't get through the video. Yikes.
Nonetheless: WWF, you'll always hold a special place in my heart, no matter how ridiculously staged you were.
Eventually we could no longer be blind to this, and we let it go.  I can't expect the world to still hold on to the theatrics of WWF, but what happened to boxing? I can tolerate boxing.  
Maybe not.  Now that I think of it, I don't think I've actually seen an entire boxing match.   This ultimate fighter bs is really hard to stomach. I read on Wikipedia that someone referred to UFC as "Human Cockfighting" (fine, it was John Mccain, but don't let that take away from it) That's exactly what it is. I'm actually really excited that I stumbled on that, I'm going to use it ALL the time to express just how much I dislike UFC. I know Chad loves it, as do so many other people, but when I think of UFC, all I can think of is human cockfighting.   
Damn it! I wish I thought of that first!!

Saturday, November 13, 2010

I woke up way too early with a scratchy throat. I think I inflicted this on myself. All week I was thinking about how long it's been since I've been sick, and sure enough, here are the first signs of some sort of virus.
On the plus, my husband is making me blueberry pancakes while I lie in bed, I think. I do hear golf on in the living room. But I'm going to assume it's for while he's cooking. Ok, now I hear him playing the guitar.
Maybe he's just strumming it while the skillet's warming up.
Yeah, that's it.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Herb roasted Chicken and Wild Mushrooms.

I decided to try a new recipe tonight.  Herb roasted chicken with wild mushrooms. It was very easy to follow.  Of course I didn't take any pictures of the steps I took while making this chicken, but I was checking to see if it was done, and I just had to take a picture because I was so impressed with it. Side of mashed potatoes and a salad...fabulous dinner. You should definitely try out this recipe.  I've got this whole domesticated thing down...although I think I broke the washing machine again today. Damn it.

Cheers.

I was up late one night and Cheers was on tv land. It was some sort of marathon. After I watched a few of them I found myself laughing out loud and actually a little surprised that the show kept my attention. I remember it when I was younger, but only bits and pieces, it was a little too old for me when It was on tv. I decided to find the entire series online and watch it.
Chad and I found them on you tube and have been very content with the show. There are 11 seasons! Who knew?? It's taken us some time to get through (each season averages 26 shows), but we just started season 10. And I have to admit, I'm a little sad knowing it's all about to end. I know they're just characters, and all tv shows must come to an end, but nonetheless, it's really like saying goodbye to friends of ours. The same feelings the rest of the nation got when seinfeld ended, or friends. The picture was taken for my friends Melanie and Rick who bought me that bottle of champagne for my birthday, it was coincidental that 'cheers' is in the background, but couldn't have planned it better myself :)

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Diary entry.

When I was young, I would try to keep a diary, as I'm sure most girls did. I would try to be so faithful and write in it every night. But then, it would get late, or something would come up and I wouldn't get a chance to write in it. Pretty soon, days would go by and when I would finally pick up my diary again, guilt would overwhelm me and I would feel so sad that I've neglected my diary. There have been many entries that started with me asking my diary for forgiveness. Those entries usually started:
'Dear Diary,
Sorry I haven't written in here for so long. I can't believe the last time I've written in here was (whatever date).....So many things have happened since then.'
....and then I would go on to list the major things that have happened since my last entry. 'I'm in 7th grade!....'
When I was in college, my freshman year, I decided to try the diary thing again when I had a huge crush on this boy, I decided to log all of our interactions, and for one entire quarter that I was obsessed with him, I did just that. I found the diary among my college things and when I read back through the entries, I wasn't sure if I was glad to have those memories, or if I would have rather had them fade away.
-
When I decided to look at my blog, I noticed that I've neglected it for so long. I looked at the date and was so shocked that it's been over a year since my last entry. And of course came the inevitable guilt for not writing. So with that I offer this:

Dear Blog,
Sorry I haven't written in here for so long. I can't believe the last time I've written in here was October 1, 2009
....So many things have happened since then.
I got married :)