tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-766719431766063542024-03-05T23:55:12.020-05:00Funky Town ChroniclesThe trivial happenings of my daily life and thought process...Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-83806617249851310572012-08-22T14:06:00.000-04:002012-08-22T14:06:40.462-04:00Oh you noticed that, huh?I snuck a post in yesterday and was all "la dee dah I posted NEVER MIND ABOUT THE LAST 7 MONTHS IT'S FINE".<br />
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As I'm sure you're on the edge of your seat about what I've been up to, let me tell it to you. There have been some big changes on the Funkytown front. My life is the Funkytown.<br />
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Basically, I think I stopped posting at about the time I joined this Wellness Center place. That sounds a little bit like a cult. It's not. I don't think. Although apparently we are now hugging each other. And they all "support my progress". So. Huh... how about that?<br />
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Let's start again.<br />
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So I joined a cult back in January/February. <br />
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You all know that I was on this Let's Lose Weight kick last year. And I wasn't doing too bad. I was going to the gym... ok, I was hanging out on the elliptical... four times a week. I was watching what I was eating. And I lost maybe like 9 or 10 pounds on my own. And then it stopped somewhere during the summer last year. It just... I dunno... ended. And I kept up with it, and I was tracking it, and blah blah blah. But there was no improvement. That awful, horrible, not much improved number just kept staring at me. So after the holidays (which was a shining example of gluttony and indulgence) I decided to take a month and not drink any alcohol at all. <br />
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Let me explain this thinking.<br />
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I'm not saying I'm an alcoholic. I can function perfectly fine without drinking every day.<br />
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Not that I would actually know because I was having a drink or five, four nights a week (at least) for a while.<br />
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So you figure you go from maybe 20 drinks a week to none? And keep eating the same way? I mean... minus the late night bar munchies... I should drop SEVERAL HUNDRED POUNDS, amirite?<br />
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No.<br />
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The answer to that question is "No, Connie, you are not right."<br />
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It made not one ounce of difference. In an entire month it changed NOTHING. And I had to deal with this disappointment SOBER.<br />
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Ugh. I felt like a total failure.<br />
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So then my friend Da'vine Joy Randolph (who you might recognize because she was a TONY NOMINATED ACTRESS FOR HER ROLE AS ODA MAY BROWN IN GHOST ON BROADWAY!!)... wait... here... this chick:<br />
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<img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ5BKlp7WtZ_Y1iLYurmLJKFN85UKdex5XtKjIQ8v3w8bbNNtzy" />
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<br />
... well she suggested that I try out this place called Complete Wellness in Midtown. I was skeptical but she said that my insurance might cover it all and that jazz. So I was all "Potentially free massive weight loss and a team of hot professionals?! Where do I sign up?!"<br />
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Oh yeah. Everybody at this place? Pretty darn good looking. It's (not so) shockingly motivating.<br />
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So I went in, met with Dr. Scott who recommended that I meet with a nutritionist, work out with a personal trainer (in house) three days a week and get checked out by a chiropractor. The chiropractor found that my spine was all jacked up, which probably contributed to how I walked which contributed to my shin splints which contributed to my lack of real beneficial exercise.<br />
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And so I did all of this. From February through April. And I lost...<br />
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2 pounds.<br />
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Maybe 3.<br />
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I.<br />
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Was.<br />
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Pissed.<br />
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So Dr. Scott recommended the HCG diet to me. This is a CRAZY diet, and not for the faint of heart. Let me explain. HCG is the human growth hormone found in pregnant women. In order to get this hormone, they have to harvest it from pregnant lady's urine. Gross, right? But I mean... apparently they pee a lot so I would imagine it's pretty easy to get a lot of it. Anyway. This hormone is what ensures babies grow nice and healthy, even if the mother isn't eating enough. It directs the body to use stored body fat to make up for the calories being burned... ya know... while making a human. So scientists were like "So. It just burns up all your fat? I feel like we can market this somehow.... is there a market for this kind of thing?" And lucky for them, there totally IS a market for that kind of thing! So they put people on incredibly strict, low calorie diets (500 calories-ish. Yeah.that approximately covers the number of calories it takes to like, breathe and be awake.) along with daily injections of the hormone (it's little, like next to nothing. And the needle is tiny like an insulin shot)... for 40 days. And you can't work out (oh. So sad.) So I gave it a whirl.<br />
<br />
People.<br />
<br />
PEOPLE!<br />
<br />
26 pounds GONE in 40 days! <br />
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My clothes don't fit me!<br />
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Pants are falling off of me!<br />
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I lost nearly triple in 40 days that I had in the ENTIRE YEAR before!<br />
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So I'm doing it again. Today's the first day of 500 calories. I just had hot tomato water with chunks of chicken... a recipe they call Chicken and Tomato Soup. Whatever. There are better recipes like really yummy meat loaf, italian wedding soup (without the barley), chili, chicken fingers, "onion rings"... so this was a bit of a misstep. But knowing that in the next few days I will start to see pounds just melt away from me is SO so exciting! I'll keep you updated as usual.<br />
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What's that?<br />
<br />
I DON'T keep you updated ever?<br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
Moving on.<br />
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I have decided that, although the idea of owning my own company sounds really quite fabulous, I just don't think it's for me. Events By Connie will still exist as my own personal tax haven... I mean... side business...<br />
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...<br />
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I just don't think that having to look out for my own benefits, 401k, as well as marketing myself AND running my business and financial well being is for me. I'll keep it around so that when people ask for me to plan something for them I can. But I think I will keep doing what I am doing, building my experience doing corporate and client events. I have been lucky enough to plan some client events at my current job. I'm hoping between this experience, my DC experience and my own personal experience, getting a job doing events for a large corporation won't be impossible. Time will tell!<br />
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I've been considering this for a while, but my friend Ana sort of convinced me to actually go for it on Monday. I'm going to seek out therapy because dudes... I am MESSED. UP. So while the idea of paying someone to make me talk about stuff I don't want to talk about sounds just LOVELY (seriously. PLEASE someone come up with a sarcasm font.) I think it may be a necessary evil for me to move forward and find happiness. I think I harbor a lot of insecurities and defense mechanisms that keep me somewhat removed from people and relationships. And being someone that has realized she'd like to get married and have kids... that probably won't work well in my favor, I'm thinking.<br />
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Speaking of kids... guess who has a new nephew?! ME! (there's a pattern here. It's all about me. You should just go ahead and get on board with that now.) His name is Jaylen Lawrence. He was born March 31, 2012 and he is an Aries just like his favorite auntie! (That would be me. Again.) He is the happiest, cutest, sweetest little bundle of joy I have ever seen in my life and I couldn't be more excited that he's here! And my sister is doing GREAT with him! She has gone back to school AND work, and got rid of his dead-beat dad which is all nothing short of several miracles! <br />
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So there it is. A pretty good re-cap of my life. I'm trying to make this become a regular thing again. You know how that goes. But this is day 2 in a row! <br />
<br />
...So don't be surprised if you don't hear from me again until at least next week.<br />
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Don't be greedy.Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-66074482450664863472012-08-21T17:50:00.000-04:002012-08-21T17:50:26.310-04:00I'm Afraid of the Republican Party.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For anyone that knows me, it's clear that while I have opinions on hot button issues for this year's election, I try to avoid politics in general conversation. Living in DC for 2 years did that to me. I got tired of being asked if I was a D or an R, and so when I registered in NYC I registered "Independent". I didn't realize the freedom this would give me. I didn't have to agree with one party or the other if I really didn't agree with them, simply because I was labeled one thing or another. I actively read and watch and listen and develop my own opinion without the pressure of being party affiliated. It's wonderful!<br />
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In doing all of this, I really assumed that I would find that I was torn between the two parties and would have to really do some soul searching before election day to decide upon which side of the aisle I was standing. I never thought this would be such an easy decision.<br />
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I haven't liked Mitt Romney much from the beginning. He seems like a bit of a prick, but I was willing to listen to his ideas and ideologies despite that.<br />
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Good.<br />
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God.<br />
<br />
Mitt.<br />
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<a href="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/737752/thumbs/s-ROMNEY-TAXES-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Romney Taxes" border="0" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/737752/thumbs/s-ROMNEY-TAXES-large.jpg" /></a><br />
Do people really think this way? Are presidential candidates really this backwards and uneducated and corrupt? What exactly did he do to prepare for this campaign? <br />
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My mom and step-dad are voting for Mitt in the election. They have a sign in their front yard. I spent the weekend at their house last weekend avoiding looking at it because... it scares me. My mom says that the most important thing to her is the economy, and she believes that Mitt Romney and his running mate, Paul Ryan, are excellent businessmen who understand how it works and that they will be able to fix everything in a way Obama cannot.<br />
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I will not disagree that both Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan have certainly boosted their own wealth through business. I will disagree that they will be able to help the American public accomplish the same or even similar success. My mom says that all of the information about Mitt's money being stashed in tax havens, and his making money by putting American workers out of business and sending jobs over seas are false and that I am brain washed by the media. Unfortunately, when I sent her a list of about 5 or 6 videos of things that are undeniable truths because they are videos of both the President and Mitt Romney speaking, she refused to watch them because they overwhelmed her. <br />
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And I got even more scared.<br />
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I started noticing patterns in things Romney was saying. He was constantly back-pedaling and changing his story, and outright lying to people. And if the people who support him are anything like my mom, it appears that they aren't fact checking, or looking at the other side at all.<br />
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And I know I know... these are very pro-democrat videos. I get that. That doesn't make what Romney is saying any less true... or... false as the case may be.<br />
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So. Ok. Was Obama perfect? Did he deliver 100% on everything he promised? No maybe not. Is he inexperienced? Sure. Has he improved things? Absolutely. And you really can't deny that, unless you solely listen to Romney and his campaign. <br />
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But let's ignore his lying and back-pedaling because really, that's just politicing, right? That's what EVERYBODY does, right?<br />
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You know what else everybody does? They disclose their financial records. And not just the bare minimum. They disclose several years of financial records. And here's the thing, I don't really care how many billions of dollars this man has. What I want to know is... is he a criminal? Is he ethical? I have to give about 30% of my hard earned income in taxes. Does Mitt? Or... does he look out for number 1 (in my opinion, the biggest issue this country currently faces - selfishness) and stash his cash in accounts so that he doesn't have to be taxed as we all are? Is that the kind of person I want running my country? Obama said it best, we just want to make sure <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/20/mitt-romney-foreign-tax-credit_n_1812507.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular">we're all playing by the same rules (watch the video at the bottom).</a> And someone that is hiding things from the American people, especially questionable financial practices at a time when the economy is weighing so heavily on our shoulders, does not a good leader make. I understand that Romney did what he was legally obligated to do. But when we're talking about gaining the trust of the American people on such a touchy subject, wouldn't going above and beyond be worth it? Especially if there really isn't anything to hide? And don't even get me started on his wife's reaction to this.<br />
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Over the weekend my mom jokingly said "oh, is it even ok to be a millionaire anymore?" and my response was "Of course, as long as you pay the taxes you owe on that money, it's absolutely ok to be a millionaire!" and my step-dad said "So as long as you share it." I mean... I don't really look at taxes as sharing. It's a legal obligation. And if I didn't pay these taxes, I'd be arrested. Ever heard of Al Capone? He did a lot worse things than not paying his taxes, but guess what put him in prison? <br />
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Ok, so let's ignore the lying and back-pedaling. Let's ignore the possibility of killing American companies to outsource jobs and making millions in the process by potentially untaxed funds being housed in foreign tax havens. That could all be part of the game of running for president, and it doesn't appear that what Romney was doing there was necessary illegal, although perhaps a little unethical. Maybe a bit questionable on the moral scale. But when was the last time we met a truly moral politician, right?<br />
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What about women's rights? I'm a woman. I like my rights. Obama very clearly supports those rights. Mitt very clearly doesn't. His comment about "Planned Parenthood, we're gonna get rid of that." is, again, scary. When I got out of college, I was making next to nothing. I couldn't afford insurance, and my job had a 1 year probation period before benefits kicked in. But my health matters to me. Planned Parenthood was the only way I got tested that year. And when my results came back abnormal, it was Planned Parenthood doctors who performed the biopsy to make sure I didn't have cervical cancer at 22. If not for them, I literally could have died. When I moved to NYC and was basically jobless and completely broke, Planned Parenthood helped me with screenings, having tests and check-ups done and, yes, free birth control. I used it for just under a year, until I was employed. I didn't have an abortion. Planned Parenthood provides more than that. The idea that Romney would take away something that is so beneficial to so many, simply because they do something that he doesn't like, without any regard for the right to choose that women have earned (and deserve), shows the type of dictatorship he's looking to run. He wants to repeal Obamacare. Sorry, but this I don't understand. No denial for kids with pre-existing conditions? Free birth control? By the way... easier access to birth control MIGHT cut down on the number of abortions that you hate so much, Mr. Romney. <br />
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Hold the phone. Fewer Pell Grants? Higher interest rates on student loans? I guess things like expensive schooling don't matter as much when you have so much untaxed money lying around. Who needs kids in this country going and getting educated? Especially the lower class kids, right Romney? They get educated and suddenly your attempts to keep them down are in jeopardy! No wonder you are in favor of Paul Ryan! <br />
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And then this happened.<br />
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*Connie throws her hands up in the air and exits stage left.*<br />
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Here's the thing. My decision for the election is not being made on one hot button issue. It's being made on several issues that are extremely important to me and my life, as well as my moral and ethical code. Can I stand here and say that Obama is perfect? No, definitely not. Do I think there might be someone out there that can do better? I surely do. But it sure as hell isn't Mitt Romney. Or anyone that seems to be representing the Republican party right now. <br />
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I'm not scared anymore, I'm angry. There is a very real chance that Americans will vote to have my rights stripped away from me. My right to choose (that's right, choose. Either CHOOSE to have an abortion or CHOOSE not to have an abortion. CHOOSE.). My right to make medical decisions. My right to have a baby on my own if that's what I decide. My ability to educate myself and still be able to stand on my own two feet, rather than being buried in debt. And it will be because they voted for two men who seem to believe that women should be barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen. Or if the women are liberals who decided to join the work force, they certainly shouldn't expect to make the same amount of money as their male counterparts. And just never-you-mind about how he became one of the financial elite. I'm sure it wasn't one of YOUR family members that Bain Capital put out of business. I'm sure it wasn't your father's job that was sent to China, only to leave your family without a way to put food on the table, or keep a decent roof over your head, or pay for health insurance. And by all means, ignore the fact that the man currently in office has made all of that possible for the struggling middle and working class who are bearing the brunt of this Great Recession. The ones who don't get foreign tax credits, or have millions of dollars in tax havens to cushion this "uncomfortable" time. <br />
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So I vote for the slow and steady guy we have in office. That's where my vote's going. The guy who has made improvements, although perhaps not in the leaps and bounds he had hoped. The guy that supports me, and women like me. The guy who supports students. The one who believes it isn't right for hard working families to struggle to put food on the table while their neighbors own 7 homes (or too many homes to remember, right Mr. Cheney?). He believes in something better. He believes in playing by the same rules. Although perhaps unattainable. I'm voting for the guy who believes in a more humble, helpful America. Someone who wants us to be better, even if it takes a while, rather than to regress. Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-78811149047780188432012-02-27T17:09:00.002-05:002012-02-27T17:09:47.673-05:00The Oscars are very much not my Superbowl...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtyg770zCYF67_L50v8qqeMDHpRAtSFKtsU07_CrMv28FO8d4HGxmwRmZ1BFKpx_XUNIGewE2RkaWHeiG9Xw2Re1gjNs1Y23r6my0ffsaepKrx7IDYxUn2aa-7hLIlaKMhS9YpHtlo9Y/s1600/Oscar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtyg770zCYF67_L50v8qqeMDHpRAtSFKtsU07_CrMv28FO8d4HGxmwRmZ1BFKpx_XUNIGewE2RkaWHeiG9Xw2Re1gjNs1Y23r6my0ffsaepKrx7IDYxUn2aa-7hLIlaKMhS9YpHtlo9Y/s1600/Oscar.jpg" /></a></div>
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Rooney Mara said it best on the Red Carpet during her interview. As you may or may not know, Rooney's family is very much involved in football, and the stupid interviewer asked her "Is this like your Superbowl?" Well, Rooney smartly responded "No, I don't think about the two in the same sentence". Well DUH! They are two very different things! And as I am a girl who bleeds green all day every day, let the Oscars stand on their own! The Superbowl is not the Oscars of football season (which would make more sense as the Oscars have been around far longer than the Superbowl). The Oscars are the Oscars, and they are fabulous!! I don't remember when exactly I really started getting into awards shows. But I do love love love awards season!! Now, unlike my last post which was crazy wordy and went on for 78 awards (far far too many!) I am only commenting on the awards I care about in this post :) Also, I have PICTURES!! Get excited! And before you get all legal speaky on me, I just googled them all, so... I consider that public domain. I didn't take any of these photos and I don't take credit for them. I just like to share them with you fine people!<br />
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First of all, Billy's opening was corny as hell,. but it was fine. He cheeseballed it up and I dug it. I actually really enjoyed his hosting. I loved that he told Jonah Hill that if he didn't win last night that they were serving cupcakes after! Lol... poor kid. All of his funny melted away with his chub. But to be honest, watching how he acts now and how he acted during Superbad... it's not that different. It was just a lot funnier to see a chubby kid getting all worked up!<br />
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Cirque Du Soleil did a very cool performance but it did feel a little bit disjointed from the night. I think maybe if you were actually there it might have flowed a bit better. Later in the night they had girls with cigarette boxes handing out candy and popcorn old Hollywood style. I could see that they were trying to play up that theme which was probably much more evident there than it was to the at-home-viewing audience. But very cool and I'm dying to go to a show!<br />
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Ok, onto the awards!!<br />
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I am pretty upset that I haven't actually seen too many of the winners this season. And actually, not even a solid number of the nominees. So once my schedule calms itself a bit maybe I'll get on that.<br />
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For Achievement in Cinematography, I guessed that Hugo would win, and they did!<br />
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I haven't seen this film, but they kept showing a couple of the same clips and now I'm totally into it! It looks fantastic, so if you have seen it don't ruin it for me!</div>
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For Achievement in Art Direction I guess Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, but Hugo won out. </div>
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I was definitely surprised that Harry Potter didn't win this award although I haven't seen Hugo. I just feel like Harry Potter leads the way in this area and has for years. Maybe I'm biased.<br />
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For Costume Design, I guessed that W E would win. But The Artist's Mark Bridges won out for his old school flapper style. <br />
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For Make Up, I again guessed that Harry Potter would win. So many characters are transformed from their human selves into other worldly creatures. But The Iron Lady won for transforming Meryl Streep into.. well... the Iron Lady, crooked teeth and all. <br />
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And it's true, they did a fabulous job. Just looking at that pictures it kind of makes you do a double take. She looks like someone kind of familiar, but on second look... no... you can't quite place her. Really spectacular work.<br />
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So then it was time for foreign film. I will admit to you that the only foreign film I ever recall actually seeing is Amelie, and only because my friend Eric in college sat me down and made me. It was ok. I didn't mind the subtitles. But that was the extent of my reaction to it. Sandra Bullock was super awkward on stage presenting this award. I thought she was going for funny with the whole "My mother spoke German to us at home, so my Mandarin has a German accent" but... I don't think she really was. And so it was mostly weird But the Iranian man that won was lovely and his speech was kind of sad to me. He sounded like a man pleading for a nation to give him a chance even though he was from Iran. It was strange. And I felt bad that he feels unwelcome.<br />
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For Actress in a Supporting Roll I guessed Octavia Spencer, but this was a really tough call. All of the nominees deserved this award and are insanely talented. But MAN am I glad I picked Octavia! <br />
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Not only did she win, she got a standing ovation and she had me crying before she even got on stage! She was so humbled and happy and surprised! It was an Oscar moment in its purest form and I loved it!!<br />
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And then Bradley Cooper came out. Dear God somebody shave that hideous mustache off his face. What the crap is that?! It's terrible.<br />
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And again, I don't really do documentaries, but I guessed that To Hell and Back Again would win but Undefeated did.<br />
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Then Chris Rock came on. And I like Chris Rock as a comedian. I think he's a pretty terrible actor, but a fantastic comedian. But can somebody get this man a haircut?? What is he trying to pull off?? Please tell me he's not going back to braiding. That's not cute. <br />
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Anyway, his bit about doing animated voices being super easy was hilarious! "What's the line? Ok... 'It's hot outside today!' You like that? Ok great... what's the next line? AND THEY GIVE ME A MILLION DOLLARS!!!" Awesome. <br />
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Anyway, the choices for Animated Feature Film weren't great, but I went for Kung Fu Panda 2 because I've heard good things from the kids about it. Rango won!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4BYP2Lkxl9Q2FkIGcB6ynxOi13g3wiFWyyu6ycP-poTIQwR9aU3NRvTBnfvAdyjBKGL-OmxAsQhgkp1rEenFhY1xM0OOUR3dWnMUOIss_4RhrL1RGYrmLtn9iqB2t__XVAiOY0poXHc/s1600/Rango.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4BYP2Lkxl9Q2FkIGcB6ynxOi13g3wiFWyyu6ycP-poTIQwR9aU3NRvTBnfvAdyjBKGL-OmxAsQhgkp1rEenFhY1xM0OOUR3dWnMUOIss_4RhrL1RGYrmLtn9iqB2t__XVAiOY0poXHc/s1600/Rango.jpg" /></a></div>
So, I watched Rango one night. I watched it because HELLOOOOOO it's Johnny Depp? And I was expecting an adorable and witty cartoon about a lizard in the desert. What I got was a depressing and shockingly adult story of greed, crooked characters and murder. It is NOT a kids movie at ALL! And I just don't think an animated movie should win if it's not for kids, ya dig?<br />
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Next was actor in a supporting role. I guessed Christopher Plummer. And I was right! He won!<br />
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He is the oldest person to ever receive an Oscar at 82 years old. From the research I've done, I can't see that this wonderful man with a delightful acceptance speech has ever even been nominated for an Oscar before. Now, if you're saying to yourself that he looks familiar but you just can't place him... let me help you.<br />
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YEAH HE'S THAT GUY!! The guy from the Sound Of Music, one of the greatest movies arguably of all time! Not even nominated. Crazytown. Congratulations, Mr. Plummer. <br />
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Next was Original Score which I guessed Hugo would win. Well I was wrong, and the Artist got this one.<br />
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Apparently Ludovic Bource has no formal training. I took 11 years of private piano lessons, dabbled in the saxophone, cello, violin, and tenor sax, plus played the guitar for 2 weeks in 6th grade music class and I'm pretty sure I couldn't compose music for an entire movie. So well done you, Ludovic.<br />
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For Original Song only had two nominees. Real in Rio or Man or Muppet. I guess Real in Rio. I was wrong.<br />
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But these two were fantastic as usual! And don't you just LOVE Piggy's dress?? Ugh. So glam.<br />
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For Adapted Screen Play I guessed was Hugo. I was wrong. It was The Descendants, and I was glad to see it won something. I like George. He has this weird way of seeming like Mr. Perfect and the underdog all at once. <br />
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Also? Angelina Jolie gave this award. She was really pissing me off with her mousy brown hair and her little leg pop. Really dude? You're kind of washed up. Everybody is Team Jennifer, go be a baby collector and hippy and also? Has she not heard that skinny isn't hot anymore? Throw some meat on those legs woman! Geez. <br />
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For Original Screenplay I guessed Bridesmaids, not because I particularly liked it but because America was so hype over it. Midnight in Paris won which.... Eh. <br />
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My mom hated the movie. I could take it or leave it. I didn't think it was great. But then I felt the same way about Bridesmaids so. Whatever.<br />
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One thing about this... Woody Allen, as usual, was not at the Oscars to accept his award. For the 3rd time. Woody, although being nominated several bajillion times, has only appeared once. It was because the Academy specifically called him and asked to attend after the 9/11 attacks in "his" city. I find all of this incredibly pretentious and uppity. I did a little research and his reason for not attending is that he feels that art is so subjective that it's not possible to say that one is better or superior to another. And that it is not good to become dependant upon others' opinions to validate yourself. I agree with all of this, 100%. However, these are honors. Nowhere does the award say "best". It says that the Academy feels that this movie, film, artist, etc. deserves an honor. And how disrespectful to just refuse to even show up. Show up, graciously accept the award, and state in a heartfelt manor that we are all great artists deserving of acknowledgement, and that you appreciate everyone of your colleagues past, present and future. I feel that it is much more rude to snub everyone and refuse to attend the show. But what do I know.<br />
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I skipped the next 3 categories because... eh. <br />
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For Directing, I guessed Martin Scorsese because... I mean come on. Michel Hazavanicius won for The Artist (are you seeing a trend here??)<br />
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Then came my two favorite awards of the night. Actor and Actress in a leading role. I like them because they talk about the actor/actress's work over time and not just the year. How their energy, talent and dedication has transformed generations and lives. And as much as I hated to... I guessed Jean Dejardin for Best Actor not because I thought he should get it. I hadn't even HEARD of the Artist before last night, or Jean Dejardin, and my Georgie was a nominee!! But I just had this feeling....<br />
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And he was flustered and a little over the top "YES I ROCK LOOK AT ME I AM FABULOUS!" and it sort of made me cringe. But he's French so I mean... eh. Good for him.<br />
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And then Actress I guessed Meryl Streep because... It's Meryl! And I felt like Glenn getting it for playing a man when she's already thisclose to being one anyway wasn't deserving, and any time I see a Meryl movie I adore it. She's just one of the most talented people on the planet I think. And I was right!<br />
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Someone commented that she has fake modesty. I don't think she fakes modesty at all. I think she knows she's fabulous and deserving of everything she gets. It's clear she works hard, always has and always will. You think it's easy to stay in Hollywood as long as she has? But the comment that she made at the beginning of her speech to her husband was so heartfelt that I definitely shed a tear. And she really was lovely.<br />
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And last, but certainly not least, Best Picture. I guessed the Help. Although it was certainly one of the most talked about movies of the year, it was also, in my opinion, the movie with the most range of emotion, spoke to the most people and in generally was just done really well! And again, I was wrong.<br />
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The Artist won best picture. I'll probably watch this movie just because I mean... it won SO so much. And the idea of seeing a silent movie is really interesting to me. I've seen a number of Charlie Chaplin movies, but none like this. So it should be interesting. And maybe seeing it will change my mind about how it seemed to sweep the competition this year!<br />
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And can we chat about these ladies??<br />
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They rocked these dresses like nobody's business! You go ladies!<br />
<br />
But one of my favorite parts of the night was at the end with the Artist won best picture and the dog came up on stage as they all accepted the award...<br />
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Absolutely adorable!!Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-22476137418392048492012-02-24T17:27:00.003-05:002012-02-24T17:27:39.420-05:00THIS Post Is Worth Reading!!!That might be an overstatement.<br />
<br />
So I had wanted to write yesterday, but the boss had me doing REAL work. Like ordering wine. I'm not kidding. Anyway, what I had NOT wanted to write about was Valentines Day. Puke. What I DO want to write about is the Grammys, etc. Because there is a lot of serious stuff that has happened, amirite? <br />
<br />
In Chronological order:<br />
<br />
<br />
Whitney Houston died. And it is sad. It is really, really sad. But I don't find myself sad over the fact that she died. I don't find myself shocked or surprised or upset or angry. I am sad that the obvious outcome happened. It happened later than I thought it would, actually. I am sad that her daughter has to live her life without her mother, because I know I still call my mom every other day at LEAST and I don't even like to imagine a day when she won't be there for me to call. I am sad that Whitney had the disease called addiction. I'm sad that she couldn't figure it out. I might be wrong, and ignorant, and uppity for saying this. But this is my blog so I'm allowed to. I blame Whitney for her own death. I don't blame Bobby. I don't blame whatever drugs they found in her system. I blame her. Why? Because you can't tell me that Whitney didn't know what she was doing from the beginning. You can't tell me that she didn't know that she was in terrible shape. You can't tell me that she didn't have access to the best resources to get herself help. You can't tell me she didn't have support to get herself right. If anybody had a shot, Whitney did. She was selfish. She was stupid. And if you want to be devastated by her death, and angry about something, be devastated that she would leave the way she did and be angry that she left the way she did. In a hotel, alone, doing drugs. It's such a cliche, and she is better than a cliche. <br />
<br />
Chris Brown performed at the Grammys. People have feelings on this. I can't say that they are right or wrong. I can't say that I don't agree with both sides. Going in I didn't really care one way or the other about it. Then I read <a href="http://hellogiggles.com/im-not-okay-with-chris-brown-performing-at-the-grammys-and-im-not-sure-why-you-are">this blog post</a> and it got me thinking. Again, I don't know that I agree with all of her points. But I certainly don't disagree with all of them either. What happened between Chris Brown and Rihanna is awful. And unacceptable. And... personal. I know, I know. They are public figures and this was a very public scandal. But only because they are public figures. It was handled in the same way it would have been for a private citizen She went to the police and submitted a complaint, he pleaded guilty, and he was punished. And as far as I know, he is following all the rules of his punishment, and hasn't gotten into any more trouble. I definitely do NOT condone beating a woman. But neither of us were in that car that night and nobody knows what happened between them. And I know, nothing a woman does makes it ok for a man to beat her the way Rihanna was beaten. But again, that was personal. This is his career. The Grammys are celebrating artists, and terrible person or not, he is a great artist. There was... let's call it speculation? that members from Ja Rule's Murder Inc. were the ones who shot 50 Cent 9 times, and yet they have performed and received awards. Is this more or less ok? Just as a point of argument, I mean. And what makes it more or less ok? The fact that a weapon was involved? The fact that it was men involved? The fact that they are "gang" type rivals? I don't know. I don't think any of it is ok, or acceptable, or excusable. But I think I still like music from all parties involved. And I think their artistic talent should be celebrated, even if their personalities don't deserve to be. And not allowing Chris Brown to perform will not silence his music or keep people from liking him or even idolizing him. People are crazy like that. They know what he's done. Unfortunately we've all been groomed to believe that in this world... if we aren't directly affected, then... we just really don't care. That's a shame what happened to Rihanna, and good for her for going to the cops. But it was 3 years ago. And if she's ok sleeping with him again, why can't we be ok with him performing again? Just sayin...<br />
<br />
<br />
So now onto the FUN stuff! The awards!!<br />
<br />
Before the show I printed out a list of the nominees for each award and chose who I thought would win. I didn't put my guesses on here for 2 reasons. 1, I mean... I haven't written on here in a while? and 2, I don't like proof anywhere that I was wrong until I'm officially ok with it. So now that I've seen how many I was right and wrong about, I'm posting! YAY self confidence fail. I'll go through each award stating my guess and who actually won. Get excited!!<br />
<br />
1) Record of the Year:<br />
Guess: Rolling In The Deep - Adele<br />
Actual: Rolling In The Deep - Adele<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT! And how great was this girl's performance?! She rocked it and I just love that she still looks shocked that people actually like her! Ugh. Somebody tell me how I become Adele's friend. My friend Rose sounds like Adele so sometimes I pretend Rose is actually Adele talking. It's almost the same thing. Ok it's not at all the same thing. But a girl can dream...<br />
<br />
2) Album of the Year:<br />
Guess: Born This Way - Lady GaGa<br />
Actual: 21 - Adele<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Adele totally cleaned up on the awards this year, and I couldn't believe Gaga didn't win this. Born This Way was an incredible album... better luck next year Mother Monster!<br />
<br />
3) Song Of The Year:<br />
Guess: Rolling In The Deep - Adele<br />
Actual: Rolling In The Deep - Adele<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!!This song totally rocked 2011!!<br />
<br />
4) Best New Artist:<br />
Guess: Nicki Minaj<br />
Actual: Bon Iver<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! I have the biggest girl crush EVER on Nicki Minaj and was really upset about this. She's a genius and I think totally adorable. Need proof? Watch her Behind The Music, you'll fall in love, seriously! <br />
<br />
5) Best Pop Solo Performance:<br />
Guess: Firework - Katy Perry<br />
Actual: Someone Like You - Adele<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! I really feel like Katy Perry screams Pop! Solo! Performance! Adele, share the love a little bit!<br />
<br />
6) Best Pop Duo/Group Performance<br />
Guess: Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5 & Christine Aguilera<br />
Actual: Body And Soul - Tony Bennett & Amy Winehouse<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! I mean... .really?? Call me crazy, but I feel like this was more political than real, but... okey dokey then. And I even like Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse. And I actually hated the song Moves Like Jagger. I just.... whatever.<br />
<br />
7) Best Pop Instrumental Album<br />
Guess: The Road From Memphis - Booker T. Jones<br />
Actual: The Road From Memphis - Booker T. Jones<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! I just... guessed... actually....<br />
<br />
8) Best Pop Vocal Album<br />
Guess: 21 - Adele<br />
Actual: 21 - Adele<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! Adele, really?! This is almost getting boring now!!<br />
<br />
9) Best Dance Recording:<br />
Guess: Sunshine - David Guetta & Avicii<br />
Actual: Scary Monsters And Nice Sprites - Skrillex<br />
<br />
I was wrong. And I'm not surprised. I don't know what I was thinking. Brain fart. I'm definitely not into "dance" music. Pop, hip-hop, R&B, Rap, that's my spot. But even I know not to bet against Skrillex this year, even when it comes to David Guetta.<br />
<br />
10) Best Dance/ Electronica Album:<br />
Guess: Nothing But The Beat - David Guetta<br />
Actual: Scary Monsters And Nice Sprites - Skrillex<br />
<br />
I was wrong. Just. See above. And leave me alone. I count these 2 as 1 wrong, in case you were wondering. Because I make the rules around here.<br />
<br />
11) Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album:<br />
Guess: Duets II - Tony Bennett & Various Artists<br />
Actual: Duets II - Tony Bennett & Various Artists<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! It was a guess but... I mean... the competition was NOT fierce.<br />
<br />
12) Best Rock Performance:<br />
Guess: The Cave - Mumford & Sons<br />
Actual: Walk - Foo Fighters<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Actually not very surprising. I don't know rock. This was a total guess...<br />
<br />
13) Best Hard Rock/ Metal Performance<br />
Guess: White Limo - Foo Fighters<br />
Actual: White Limo - Foo Fighters<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! I can't take credit for this, It was totally a.... wait... this is my blog. I can TOTALLY take credit for this correct guess!!<br />
<br />
14) Best Rock Song:<br />
Guess: Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall<br />
Actual: Walk<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Every Teardrop is a GREAT freaking song?!? Whatever, dude.<br />
<br />
15) Best Rock Album:<br />
Guess: Rock N. Roll Party Honoring Les Paul - Jeff Beck<br />
Actual: Wasting Light - Foo Fighters<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Yeah... again... guess....<br />
<br />
16) Best Alternative Music Album:<br />
Guess: Codes and Keys - Death Cab for Cutie<br />
Actual: Bon Iver - Bon Iver<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Um. Actually, Death Cab for Cutie was the only nominee that I had actually heard of, so.... yeah. And no, I don't plan on expanding my musical horizon. Thanks.<br />
<br />
17) Best R&B Performance:<br />
Guess: Pieces of Me - Ledisi<br />
Actual: Is This Love - Corinne Bailey Rae<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Ok I had actually never heard of any of these people. And all of their albums sounded boring. What happened to the GOOD R&B??<br />
<br />
18) Best Traditional R&B Performance:<br />
Guess: Radio Message - R. Kelly<br />
Fool For You - Cee Lo Green & Melanie Fiona<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! In what world does Cee Lo Green beat out R. Kelly in a TRADITIONAL R&B Performance?! I mean... that sentence doesn't even make sense in language at all. Ugh.<br />
<br />
19) Best R&B Song:<br />
Guess: Fool For You - Cee Lo Green Etc.<br />
Actual: Fool For You - Cee Lo Green Etc.<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! Ok now don't judge that I picked this song when I just sort of bashed it for winning. Dude. the other nominees... like... really? BEST R&B songs?! THESE are the options?! Horrible.<br />
<br />
20) Best R&B Album:<br />
Guess: F.A.M.E. - Chris Brown<br />
Actual: F.A.M.E. - Chris Brown<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! However? I'm not certain I would call Chris Brown an R&B artist... But I will take this point and move forward...<br />
<br />
21) Best Rap Performance:<br />
Guess: Otis - Jay-Z & Kanye West<br />
Actual: Otis - Jay-Z & Kanye West<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! And I hate Kanye but I love me some Jay-Z! What I hated was that neither of them made the effort to be present at the awards show. At least Jay-Z has the excuse of being a new daddy. What's your excuse, 'Ye?<br />
<br />
22) Best Rap/Sung Collaboration:<br />
Guess:: All Of The Lights - Kanye Wst, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie<br />
Actual: All Of The Lights - Kanye Wst, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! Who doesn't remember dance/singing/ blaring this song all year long?? It deserved this win fo' sho', although it had some pretty good competition.<br />
<br />
23) Best Rap Song:<br />
Guess: I Need A Doctor<br />
Actual: All Of The Lights<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Mostly I was just hoping to see Eminem. I love him something fierce! "I can't tell you what it really is, I can only tell you what it really is" come on... you hear it walking down the street... you know you do!<br />
<br />
24) Best Rap Album:<br />
Guess: Watch The Throne - Jay-Z<br />
Actual: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West<br />
<br />
I was WRONG?!?!?! Dude really? Kanye West's solo album won out over his collaboration album with JAY-FREAKING-Z?!?! In what world? If I had to be honest, both Nicki Minaj's Pink Friday album and Lil Wayne's Tha Carter IV album beat out Kanye. Who the crap is Kanye west?! Look at the title, too. This kid is trying to be all emo. He's a prep school kid who first wanted to be a rap star gangster, and now he's trying to be emo and deep. It's like he's going through puberty in his 30s. Somebody shut him up, please? Or at least stop giving him awards for the best of anything.<br />
<br />
25)Best Country Solo Performance:<br />
Guess: Mean - Taylor Swift<br />
Actual: Mean - Taylor Swift<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! I am always a little embarrassed to admit it, but I actually really like Ms. Swift. Not all of her songs and not all the time, but I dig her. And her performance of this song was so cute in her little farm girl get-up!<br />
<br />
26) Best Country Duo/ Group Performance:<br />
Guess: Don't You Wanna Stay - Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson<br />
Actual: Barton Hollow - The Civil Wars<br />
<br />
I was Wrong, and after seeing both of these performed I TOTALLY get why! Don't get me wrong, Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson were great. But the Civil Wars were awesome!! As in... go google all their songs, download them, memorize their lyrics, figure out if you can see them on tour soon good! Check this duo out ASAP!<br />
<br />
27) Best Country Song:<br />
Guess: Mean - Taylor Swift<br />
Actual: Mean - Taylor Swift<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! And you know what I like? Ever since Kanye's little outburst a few years ago, this lovely lady has consistently won awards. <br />
<br />
28) Best Country Album:<br />
Guess: Red River Blue - Blake Shelton<br />
Actual: Own The Night - Lady Antebellum<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Yeah I was... But again, Country really isn't my strong suit so... I took a guess. I do like Lady A sometimes... but not all the time... :)<br />
<br />
29) Best New Age Album:<br />
Guess: Gaia - Michael Brant DeMaria<br />
Actual: What's It All About - Pat Metheny<br />
<br />
I was Wrong and I fully expected to be... what the crap is New Age? And how the crap do you figure out what the "best of" New Age is?<br />
<br />
30) Best Improvised Jazz Solo:<br />
Guess: All or Nothing At All - Randy Brecker<br />
Actual: 500 Miles High - Chick Corea<br />
<br />
I was Wrong... but again... Jazz Solos are not something I rock out to before a night on the town... perhaps I should start but I feel like mostly it would make me want to pour a glass of wine and stay in with Puka. And that's not gonna get my mom more grandkids anytime soon, so...<br />
<br />
31) Best Jazz Vocal Album:<br />
Guess: American Road - Tierney Sutton (Band)<br />
Actual: The Mosaic Project - Terri Lyne Carrington & Various Artists<br />
<br />
I was Wrong but this is the part where I started choosing based upon which names I liked best... American Road sounded cool to me. I pictured a long dusty road with fields on either side and a wire fence lining it while I walk down it in a red and blue plaid shirt, a worn jean skirt and brown cowboy boots. Maybe a Yankee's cap just to add a little of my style to it. I think my mind has started to wander....<br />
<br />
32) Best Jazz Instrumental Album:<br />
Guess: Timeline - Yellowjackets<br />
Actual: Forever - Corea, Clarke & White<br />
<br />
I was Wrong but again... I liked the name Yellowjackets. Because I like both Yellow Jackets, and also Yellowjackets make me think of summer. So... yeah...<br />
<br />
33) Best large Jazz Ensemble Album:<br />
Guess: The Good Feeling - Christian McBride Big Band<br />
Actual: The Good Feeling - Christian McBride Big Band<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! And yes it was a guess but who WOULDN'T pick something with a name like "The Good Feeling"?!<br />
<br />
34) Best Gospel /Contemporary Christian Music<br />
Guess: Alive (Mary Magdalene) - Natalie Grant<br />
Actual: Jesus - Le'Andria Johnson<br />
<br />
I was Wrong, but I feel like the title of this one is just a little to obvious, you know what I mean??<br />
<br />
35) Best Gospel Song:<br />
Guess: Window - Canton Jones<br />
Actual: Hello Fear - Kirk Franklin<br />
<br />
I was Wrong.... Hello Fear just seems a bit too literal about confronting your fears, feel me?<br />
<br />
36) Best Contemporary Christian Music Song:<br />
Guess: Strong Enough - Matthew West<br />
Actual: Window - Canton Jones<br />
<br />
I was wrong... but only because I guessed the right song for the wrong category... just my luck!<br />
<br />
37) Best Gospel Album:<br />
Guess: Hello Fear - Kirk Franklin<br />
Actual: Hello Fear - Kirk Franklin<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!! I got one right in the Gospel section... WOOO!!<br />
<br />
38) Best Contemporary Christian Music Album<br />
Guess: The Great Awakening - Leeland<br />
Actual: And If Our God Is For Us - Chris Tomlin<br />
<br />
I was Wrong, but again with the being too obvious. We get it! Christian! God! Have a little mystery, huh?!?<br />
<br />
39) Best Latin Pop, Rock or Urban Album:<br />
Guess: Nuestra - La Vida Beheme<br />
Actual: Drama Y Luz - Mana<br />
<br />
I was wrong but what I like is the name of this award. It's just... best Latin.... whatever. If it's Latin we don't care what type of music. It's all the same, because it's Latin, you see. So let's just give them an award to make them feel "included". Why isn't somebody ranting about THIS I wonder??<br />
<br />
40) Best Regional Mexican or Tejano Album:<br />
Guess: Huevos Rancheros - Joan Sebastian<br />
Actual: Bicentenario - Pepe Aguilar<br />
<br />
I was wrong, but was I really?? I mean... the album name is Huevos Rancheros... Come on!! That's winning right there!<br />
<br />
41) Best Banda Or Norteno Album:<br />
Guess: Los Tigres Del Norte And Friends - Los Tigres Del Norte<br />
Actual: Los Tigres Del Norte And Friends - Los Tigres Del Norte<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!! I love their name... it's powerful and fun all at the same time so I think that alone makes them worthy of winning the title of best band.<br />
<br />
42) Best Tropical Latin Album:<br />
Guess: The Last Mambo: Cachao<br />
Actual: The Last Mambo: Cachao<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! I'm thinking I should starting listening to Latin music because apparently I have an eye for winning bands.... amirite?<br />
<br />
43) Best Americana Album:<br />
Guess: Pull Up Some Dust And Sit Down - Ry Cooder<br />
Actual: Ramble At The Ryman - Levon Helm<br />
<br />
I was wrong but I like everything about the album name that I chose AND the artist's name... Ry COODER?!? BAHAHAHAHAHAHA... I'm 12.<br />
<br />
44) Best Bluegrass Album:<br />
Guess: Rare Bird Alert - Steve Martin And The Steep Canyon Ranger<br />
Actual: Paper Airplane - Alison Krauss & Union Station<br />
<br />
I was wrong but even just typing out Rare Bird Alert is worth being wrong for!<br />
<br />
45) Best Blues Album:<br />
Guess: Roadside Attractions - Marcia Ball<br />
Actual: Revelator - Tedeschi Trucks Band<br />
<br />
I was wrong...But I picked Roadside Attractions because I grew up in Hershey and all over the places were signs for "attractions"... so this just sort of jumped out at me...<br />
<br />
46) Best Folk Album:<br />
Guess: Ukulele Songs - Eddie Vedder<br />
Actual: Barton Hollow - The Civil Wars<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Ukulele Songs always win, hands down. Whatever, this category is a fail. Your argument is irrelevant.<br />
<br />
47) Best Regional Roots Music Album:<br />
Guess: Not Just Another Polka - Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra<br />
Actual: Rebirth Of New Orleans - Rebirth Brass Band<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! The title of my guess says it itself! It's not JUST another Polka!! And Jimmy Sturr owns HIS own orchestra!!<br />
<br />
48) Best Raggae Album:<br />
Guess: Harlem - Kingston Express Live! - Monty Alexander<br />
Actual: Revelation Pt. 1: The Root Of Life<br />
<br />
I guess I was wrong, but I mean... to me, my guess had a ! in it AND hellooooo?!? KINGSTON?? Jamaica?? Raggae?? Hellooooo??<br />
<br />
49) Best World Music Album:<br />
Guess: Songs From Zulu Farm - Ladysmith Black Mambazo<br />
Actual: Tassili - Tinariwen<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! It's Ladysmith Black Mambazo! I feel like these people don't even know what world music is.<br />
<br />
50) Best Children's Album:<br />
Guess: Are We There Yet? - The Papa Hugs Band<br />
Actual: All About Bullies... Big And Small - Various Artists<br />
<br />
I was wrong, but to be fair, All About Bullies was my second guess, so... I'll give myself half of a point for that one.<br />
<br />
51) Best Spoken Word Album:<br />
Guess: Fab Fan Memories - The Beatles Bond<br />
Actual: If You Ask Me (And Of Course You Won't) - Betty White<br />
<br />
I was Wrong, and for good reason!! What was I thinking picking the Beatles over Betty White?!?<br />
<br />
52) Best Comedy Album:<br />
Guess: Finest Hours - Patton Oswalt<br />
Actual: Hilarious - Louis C.K.<br />
<br />
I was wrong because I don't know who Louis C.K. is so clearly he can't be that funny. Because I know all the funny people.<br />
<br />
53) Best Musical Theater Album:<br />
Guess: The Book Of Mormon<br />
Actual: The Book Of Mormon<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! FINALLY! Geez. I was starting to think these people didn't know what talent and/or music was. Glad to see they're back on track with me.<br />
<br />
54) Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media:<br />
Guess: Glee: The Music, Volume 4<br />
Boardwalk Empire: Volume 1<br />
<br />
I was wrong. And I'm sad about that because for some reason I didn't think Boardwalk empire would win for something like their soundtrack. Although I actually really loved it. So I picked something too obvious... like when Jesus won best Christian album or whatever. And now look. I done messed up. So sad.<br />
<br />
55) Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media:<br />
Guess: Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 2<br />
Actual: The King's Speech<br />
<br />
I was wrong, but there were 3 in this category that I thought could have easily won. These two and Black Swan So I harbor no resentment for being wrong on this one... yet...<br />
<br />
56)Best Song Written For Visual Media:<br />
Guess: So Long (From Winnie The Pooh)<br />
Actual: I See The Light (From Tangled)<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! Who votes against Zooey Deschanel?!?<br />
<br />
57) Best Instrumental Composition:<br />
Guess:Hunting Wabbits 3 (Get Off My Lawn)<br />
Actual: Life In Eleven<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! LOOK AT THAT TITLE!?! It's pure genius.<br />
<br />
58) Best Instrumental Arrangement:<br />
Guess: Song Without Words<br />
Actual: Rhapsody In Blue<br />
<br />
I was WRONG?! The name of the award is Best Instrumental Arrangement. I guessed a song that is literally called Song Without Words. As in "Eh Yo! I'm An Instrumental Over Here!" Ugh.<br />
<br />
59) Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s)<br />
Guess: The Windmills Of Your Mind<br />
Actual: Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)<br />
<br />
I was Wrong. I think it's clear that I apparently don't get instrumental stuff. Or the collective "they" don't.<br />
<br />
60) Best Recording Package:<br />
Guess: Chickenfoot III<br />
Actual: Scenes From The Suburbs<br />
<br />
I was Wrong!! Because I chose this based upon the fact that Chickenfoot III made me think of a 3 footed chicken.<br />
<br />
61) Best Boxed Or Special Limited Edition Package:<br />
Guess: The King Of Limbs<br />
Actual: The Promise; The Darkness On The Edge Of Town Story<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?! The King Of LIMBS!?! BOXed?!? It's a horror award match made in heaven.... or hell...<br />
<br />
62) Best Album Notes:<br />
Guess: The Bang Years 1966-1968<br />
Actual: Hear Me Howling!: Blues, Ballads & Beyond As Recorded By The San Francisco Bay By Chris Strachwitz In The 1960s!<br />
<br />
I was Wrong first of all because I made that guess based upon the fact that I have the sense of humor of a 12 year old boy and also... no wonder they didn't announce this award! It would have taken the entire freaking show to say the title!<br />
<br />
63) Best Historical Album:<br />
Guess: Young Man With The Big Beat: The Complete '56 Elvis Presley Masters<br />
Actual: Band On The Run (Paul McCartney Archive Collection - Deluxe Edition)<br />
<br />
I was Wrong?!? Isn't it time Elvis won something?! These Beatles kids keep stealing everybody's thunder.<br />
<br />
64) Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical<br />
Guess: Paper Airplane<br />
Actual: Paper Airplane<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT GOOD GOD FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
<br />
65) Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical<br />
Guess: The Smeezingtons<br />
Actual: Paul Epworth<br />
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I was Wrong... and what a boring name. Paul Epworth. The Smeezingtons should have won based on that alone.<br />
<br />
66) Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical<br />
Guess: Cinema (Skrillex Remix)<br />
Actual: Cinema (Skrillex Remix)<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! This Skrillex kid might really be somebody... :)<br />
<br />
67) Best Surround Sound Album:<br />
Guess: Kind<br />
Actual: Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs (Super Deluxe Edition)<br />
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I was Wrong?? What the crap? Love songs are good in surround sound? Bleh.<br />
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68) Best Engineered Album, Classical:<br />
Guess: Mackey: Lonely Motel - Music From Slide<br />
Actual: Aldridge: Elmer Gantry<br />
<br />I was wrong but at least somebody with a cool name won... Elmer... lol....<br />
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69) Producer Of The Year, Classical:<br />
Guess: Judith Sherman<br />
Actual: Judith Sherman<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! And there is nothing even remotely interesting about this guess. Except that now when I read her name all I can think about is "P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way Sydney"<br />
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70) Best Orchestral Performance:<br />
Guess: Haydn: Symphonies 104, 88 & 101<br />
Actual: Brahms: Symphony No. 4<br />
<br />
I was wrong... but I mean, ANYBODY can play just ONE symphony... amirite?<br />
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71) Best Opera Recording:<br />
Guess: Rautavaara: Kaivos<br />
Actual: Adams: Doctor Atomic<br />
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I was wrong, but picking out an opera is like picking out a good melon to me. Although Doctor Atomic does sound kind of bad ass.<br />
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72) Best Choral Performance:<br />
Guess: Light & Gold<br />
Actual: Light & Gold<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! But I feel like that's pretty Choral sounding, no? <br />
<br />
73) Best Small Ensemble Performance:<br />
Guess: Sound The Bells!<br />
Actual: Mackey: Lonely Motel - Music From Slide<br />
<br />
Bells ARE part of the Ensemble! That's a dead give away that they should have won!!<br />
<br />
74) Best Classical Instrumental Solo:<br />
Guess: Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18, Rhapsody On a Theme Of Paganini<br />
Actual: Schwantner: Concerto For Percussion & Orchestra<br />
<br />
I was Wrong, but I only chose it because Rachmaninov sounds like he's Rock, Man... enough. :)<br />
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75) Best Classical Vocal Solo:<br />
Guess: Handel: Cleopatra<br />
Actual: Diva Divo<br />
<br />
I was Wrong, but Diva Divo was definitely my second choice... that's a rockin name...<br />
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76) The Best Contemporary Classical Composition:<br />
Guess: Ruders, Poul: Piano Concerto No. 2<br />
Actual: Aldridge, Robert: Elmer Gantry<br />
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I was Wrong but I only chose Ruders because I played the piano.... so....<br />
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77) Best Short Form Music Video:<br />
Guess: Rolling In The Deep: Adele<br />
Actual: Rolling In The Deep: Adele<br />
<br />
I WAS RIGHT!!! She just had to get one more in there didn't she? <br />
<br />
78) Best Long Form Music Video:<br />
Guess: I Am... World Tour<br />
Actual: Foo Fighters: Back And Forth<br />
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I was wrong but I don't really know what short and long form music videos are...??<br />
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<br />
I'd like to say that I got most right because I am nothing if not competitive. But I only got 22 out of 78 categories correct?! That's crazy town! Well... I mean I guess if I give myself that half of a point that I threw in there... but still! That's appalling!<br />
<br />
I'd also like to add that due to my new workout/get healthy plan and being sick and work being COMPLETELY INSANE it took me.... however long it's been since the Grammys to get this freaking post done! But I wanted to finish it before the Oscars this weekend so that it could take me another 3 months to get THAT post done, ya dig?? Ugh. <br />
<br />
And lastly. <br />
<br />
CHRIS BROWN YOU FREAKING IDIOT! Here I am DEFENDING you and how "he's not getting into any more trouble and being such a good little boy" and blah blah blah and then you go and steal some girl's cell phone?! ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME?! You are a bazillionaire go get your own damn phone and stop stealing! You're a mess.<br />
<br />
Ok I'm off to Philly, I'll see y'all next week or... whenever. You know how it goes.Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-40984583327683653052012-02-10T15:38:00.001-05:002012-02-10T15:38:35.776-05:00In an effort to make up for the fact that I have been completely 100% missing from this blog for well over 2 months, I'd like to do a short summary of what has been happening in Funkytown. Ready for this? WOO!<br />
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1) HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!<br />
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2) HAPPY HANUKKAH!<br />
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3) MERRY CHRISTMAS!<br />
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4) HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!<br />
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5) Terri got a boyfriend!<br />
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6) The Eagles basically sat down in the middle of the field and stopped playing football. *Next Year*.<br />
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7) I got an iPhone... did I tell you this already?<br />
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8) I visited Maria, Patty and Tony!<br />
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9) I started Bikram Yoga!<br />
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10) I went home for my sister's baby shower (It's so close it's almost like it's really happening...)<br />
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11) I joined a weight loss clinic!<br />
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12) I saw Delta Rae in concert again!<br />
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13) The Giants won the Superbowl (this doesn't get an exclamation mark.)<br />
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14) My mom and Buzz are coming to visit!<br />
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15) My dad, Sharon and Scott are coming to visit!<br />
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16) I'm going to visit my Philly people!<br />
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17) I was asked out on the street! And not by a homeless guy!<br />
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18) Sanaa of ZH Collection has a new collection coming out!<br />
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19) I fought with SO MANY different companies you just wouldn't even believe!<br />
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I'm going to work on elaborating on any number of these, but I have this job... so.... But you should know that this post was inspired by Miss K80 herself. She offered to dig up some of our best email chains to act as a post. And so just to add a little length to this sad excuse for a post, I give you: HOW K80 AND I WASTE TIME ALL THE TIME EVERY DAY!<br />
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1) We send each other funny pictures: <br />
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<img alt="." src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/124412008425782310_0yuKTOsr_b.jpg" style="height: 443px;" /> <img height="337" id="il_fi" src="http://i2.listal.com/image/1092033/600full-she's-all-that-screenshot.jpg" style="height: 263px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; width: 412px;" width="600" /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIzub2r1ZgEXSwJ2coqzexEoXwkt3u93G1KWFkorBxL6FJJAqmw6UF8mPIfU1fdwt2c8BAvYTep_Ms2NwwGF2hb5ra_5DU0Uc1mZP_Tk_lsL_dFN0cft2dR12bYv7C2YMj0o8oTFcqKA/s1600/Drunk.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIzub2r1ZgEXSwJ2coqzexEoXwkt3u93G1KWFkorBxL6FJJAqmw6UF8mPIfU1fdwt2c8BAvYTep_Ms2NwwGF2hb5ra_5DU0Uc1mZP_Tk_lsL_dFN0cft2dR12bYv7C2YMj0o8oTFcqKA/s1600/Drunk.bmp" /></a></div>
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I thought of you when I saw this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTLZH33Omut-tFMSGSX3zymxKll45Lnev6xd7b9KffRLQO5Q2NUNl5I8hmCZ1p9ovXPrMFOylj6tw4h7sOX6e_706tTDptOmApmQ-LH0ZfVgLIEyc1HPmmBb6WpuiQC9MSHQPorFmDaM/s1600/Hat+Chick.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTLZH33Omut-tFMSGSX3zymxKll45Lnev6xd7b9KffRLQO5Q2NUNl5I8hmCZ1p9ovXPrMFOylj6tw4h7sOX6e_706tTDptOmApmQ-LH0ZfVgLIEyc1HPmmBb6WpuiQC9MSHQPorFmDaM/s320/Hat+Chick.bmp" width="169" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">2) We say things like:</span>
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<span class="335235914-09022012"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial;">"We'll paint you all in gold and you can just stand there
like a statue. It would be AWESOME!! I'd learn to play the Ukulele. We'd make
a FORTUNE!"</span></span></div>
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<span class="335235914-09022012"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">3) We forward each other emails from other friends like:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcnqYZWb5feOJTA38qlbINEP7ksD7nrC1iHc31ARH2jNQ3ZPI2r2P_Zxs6kyLzRKfIIangBV3OBnbhmTjby-XVMgWxlZ__tJ2khfWr0nG-SH40Yx6lsQcZ4E8ky87HXejOGr-wBBKxQWI/s1600/beach.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcnqYZWb5feOJTA38qlbINEP7ksD7nrC1iHc31ARH2jNQ3ZPI2r2P_Zxs6kyLzRKfIIangBV3OBnbhmTjby-XVMgWxlZ__tJ2khfWr0nG-SH40Yx6lsQcZ4E8ky87HXejOGr-wBBKxQWI/s1600/beach.bmp" /></a></div>
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This will be us!!! Is it too soon to start a countdown??</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Elizabeth</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d;">Did you ever make these paper
countdowns to Christmas?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJIcSUob_7HrGlpBuSIGKXaoUB95a_XXYASBvjle71UAxdfT4CPHQ2fSGJuWl4BNVR5_RcjwWkjpEdYSj0tNFnWfo38L3F3hJqvCdsJWlrKIIm0OcBROT5ODHYYESNiaEa8WMAyss02s/s1600/Paper+Chain.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJIcSUob_7HrGlpBuSIGKXaoUB95a_XXYASBvjle71UAxdfT4CPHQ2fSGJuWl4BNVR5_RcjwWkjpEdYSj0tNFnWfo38L3F3hJqvCdsJWlrKIIm0OcBROT5ODHYYESNiaEa8WMAyss02s/s320/Paper+Chain.bmp" width="257" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d;">I’m pretty sure I’ll be making
one for Palm Beach soon… (Katie)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiGQStwb_dIdQXNED4MNrmgHyoBaYFtsevsyQmap2xwCMXRI28jawg8r2g00FuJ3aBS3_3Tdj1-6cX4r5oxhBeGyqYz9HiqZGlrUYZEFNGwMP4QTeUtaihXYqHC5n020jnXGTboxEX9Y/s1600/Computer+Nerd.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiGQStwb_dIdQXNED4MNrmgHyoBaYFtsevsyQmap2xwCMXRI28jawg8r2g00FuJ3aBS3_3Tdj1-6cX4r5oxhBeGyqYz9HiqZGlrUYZEFNGwMP4QTeUtaihXYqHC5n020jnXGTboxEX9Y/s320/Computer+Nerd.bmp" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d;">No. How does that work???
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<b><span style="color: #1f497d; font-size: 10.5pt;">Elizabeth</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d;">It’s so easy! You have a little
loop of paper for each day until the BIG DAY, and you tear off one of the loops
each day. Then the chain gets shorter and shorter! AHH!!! (Katie)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d;">Odd. The chain would be so long
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<b><span style="color: #1f497d; font-size: 10.5pt;">Elizabeth</span></b><span style="color: #1f497d;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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So what I'm trying to say is, rather than put in the effort to write something coherent and worth while HERE, I spend most of my time bantering with K80 instead. It's her fault, you can blame her. :) Be back soonish... you know how I roll!</div>
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</div>Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-11207388514151488502011-11-29T14:11:00.001-05:002011-11-29T14:53:28.818-05:00Adventures in NyQuil Land...So I promised I'd tell you how that recipe went, right?<br />
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OMG THEY WERE DELISH!<br />
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The crispy chicken yumminess was a hit, and was even delish next day (although significantly less crispy since the tortilla was heated in the microwave and not stove top.)! I could have used more chicken because mine were more saucy than chickeny. But good nonetheless.<br />
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Last night? I did brown sugar glazed salmon. UGH! SO SO GOOD! Next time I will use actual salmon filets. This time all I had was sliced salmon from trader joes. But this took me all of maybe 15 minutes. In a sauce pan I heated 2 tablespoons of butter with a tablespoon of honey and three tablespoons of brown sugar. Once totally melted, I removed it from the heat and added 1/4 cup of dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons each of soy sauce and olive oil, and one tablespoon of finely ground ginger. Let the mixture cool.<br />
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You are supposed to grill the salmon, but getting out the foreman is annoying so I used a pan on the stove. I rubbed the salmon with veggie oil and dusted lightly with salt and pepper. Go sparingly on the salt, as this can very easily become too salty. Place the salmon in skin-side down (mine didn't have skin, so... just... pick a side any side!) and then I brushed the other side with the glaze. Flipped, and cooked for probably a total of a minute or two on each side (these were VERY thin slices of salmon). I served mine with corn and broccoli. Brown rice would have been yummy yummy too! This recipe can be found <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/salmon-with-brown-sugar-and-mustard-glaze-recipe/index.html">here</a> in case you feel like giving it a whirl.<br />
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In other news, I'm drunk on NyQuil today. Apparently.<br />
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So my entire office has been sick repeatedly for a couple of months. Because nobody can afford to stay home and spare everyone those germs. So we all come in and hack and sneeze on each other and spread the germy love. We're just that close.<br />
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I had about a 3 week bout with this a few weeks ago. I threatened everyone's lives when I said "I'm going to the doctor for antibiotics, so you all better get yourselves right before I spend all my money on this medicine only to have you people get me sick again!", but then miraculously I got better the day after I went to the doctor, so I just never went to get the drugs.<br />
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Well.<br />
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Here we are, just a few weeks later and guess who is hacking and sneezing again?<br />
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It hit me in just 24 hours. I was fine, relaxing at home, and then BAM. Sick. Typically I take an allergy nasal spray (my doctor says it helps to clear out the sinuses so that you don't get a sinus infection, just FYI) and combine it with about 3 days of DayQuil/NyQuil to feel about 95% better. Last night was the first night of NyQuil. I took it at about 11:30 last night which, admittedly, was kind of late. But I figured I wanted to sleep through the whole night, so if I got up at 7:30, there's the 8 hours they recommend planning for and I'll be good! <br />
<br />HA, I say to you.<br />
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I am barely aware of getting up or dressed this morning. It's a miracle I'm not here mostly naked with mis-matched shoes. When I got into the office, I tried to return a phone call. As I was looking at the number I needed to dial, I found myself staring at the keypad on the phone, kind of confused. Then I realized I was looking for the (-). Like. I wanted to dial 2 1 2 -.... THERE IS NO (-) BUTTON! Gah. I hung up the phone and tried again several hours later.<br />
<br />
I pounded myself with DayQuil and coffee. So now that I am very much more aware of my surroundings, I am able to tell you that OMFG MY FEET HURT SO BAD! I'm wearing adorable red patent leather shoes this morning. The heels are just not conforming to my feet. So in order to try to combat the shoes actually slowly scraping off the skin from my achilles tendon, I went to the bathroom to put some band aids on my heels. I opened each band aid and placed it on my foot. Aaaaah, much better! I use the bathroom and go to wash my hands.<br />
<br />
<br />
People.<br />
<br />
In the 30 seconds it took me to go to the bathroom I forgot that I had tossed the band aid packaging into the sink!<br />
<br />
I walk over to it and go "Ugh, how gross! Who tosses their band aid packaging in the sink and doesn't...... oh wait. Oh right. Yeah. NEVERMIND hahaha.... ugh."<br />
<br />
I got lost on the 19th floor. As in, I stepped off the elevator looking for room 7. A directory was literally right in front of me, and I totally didn't see it. Took me forever to find room 7. When I got back to the elevators I saw the directory. I just rolled my eyes at myself because, really? What else can you do at that point?<br />
<br />
So sad. I'm a walking mess. These things happen, though.<br />
<br />
In more exciting news, I'm going to get a new iPhone 4S on Thursday! WOOOOOOO! Also, I think Ana and I might do a bit of Christmas shopping/hot cider/chocolate drinking at the Christmas Tents in Union Square on Thursday! And on Friday I go back to Hershey for cookie baking day!! Let's hope I can pull my crap together by then, eh??<br />
<br />
So I know you are ALLL just DYING to hear about my Thanksgiving, no?? I know. No worries. I plan on doing a big holiday post complete with pictures and whatnot after... um... the holidays? Duh. But believe me, it was a blast and a half!<br />
<br />
Now I am off to do... whatever it is I'm supposed to be doing. I see a lot of paper on my desk but none of it seems to be making much sense. Also lots of notes scribbled on post-its. And a grocery shopping list. I think I'll start there....Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-45336369399974417002011-11-15T17:11:00.001-05:002011-11-15T18:07:27.817-05:00Food?! I LOVE food!!And this is why losing weight is such a struggle for me. As far as I know I am holding steady at 23 pounds lost. I feel better, but not great. I can and will lose more. But these winter months are proving to be quite difficult to get through since all I want for dinner is pasta and warm, creamy deliciousness! <br />
<br />
I have been lucky enough to find a TON of good recipes on <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest.com</a> (which, for the love, if you're not on here you better get on NOW!) that are healthy and totally satisfying. One is just mushrooms and chicken sauteed with garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper and onion powder over brown rice. Easy, takes about 30 minutes (because brown rice, in case you don't know, doesn't like to be cooked and takes FOOOORRREEEEVVVVEEEERRRRRRRRR!)<br />
<br />
Last night I tried another recipe that I found <a href="http://themealplanner.blogspot.com/">here</a> called Taco Soup. Now. Keep in mind, I am but a poor New Yorker just trying to make ends meet. So some modifications had to be made. Here's what I used:<br />
<br />
1/2 Lb. of Ground Beef<br />
2 Tbsp Minced Garlic<br />
1 Tbsp Onion Powder<br />
2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil<br />
2 Cans Kidney Beans<br />
1 Jar Classic Marinara Sauce<br />
1 Package Sweet Yellow Corn<br />
2 Cups Chicken Stock<br />
2 Tablespoons each of Homemade Taco Seasoning, Oregano, Cumin and Chili Powder<br />
Light Sour Cream<br />
Shredded Pepperjack Cheese<br />
<br />
I browned the ground beef in olive oil with no seasoning because I can't afford a whole pound and I don't want to consume too much red meat. Once browned, I dropped into a large stock pot. In the same skillet I sauteed the minced garlic and onion powder in olive oil for less than 1 minute. I didn't want the garlic becoming too bitter. Then I dropped that in the stock pot. I used a little of the chicken stock (because I don't keep beef stock around) to deglaze the pan, and poured that, along with the remaining chicken stock, into the stock pot. Then I dropped both cans of kidney beans including their juice into the pot (I only used kidney, but black beans or pinto beans or any combination of beans would be delish.), and the jar of marinara sauce. The recipe called for a can of diced tomatoes with the juice but I couldn't find any at the grocery store and I was getting antsy. So marinara it was, and it worked fabulously! Then I dropped the package (ya know, minus the actual packaging) of corn into the pot. Then I included the seasonings and mixed everything together. I let it sit over medium high heat for about 45 minutes while the flavors combined. Mine didn't get too thick, but if yours does it is recommended to add water. After 45 minutes, I ladled as much as my bowl could handle, topped with a dollop of light sour cream and a little shredded cheese. You top it with whatever you deem delicious! It is basically like a chili, but it's got a little southwestern kick to it, and the sour cream and cheese add an amazing creaminess to it. I had some left over for lunch today and it was even better than it was last night. Careful not to over eat this! About 2 good ladles is about 250 calories, which isn't bad. But you'll want seconds and thirds which starts to get out of hand...<br />
<br />
I combined this with roasted garlic cloves and roasted halved brussel sprouts. I spread these out on a cookie sheet and drizzled lightly with extra virgin olive oil and salt (because somewhere along the line, I ran out of pepper. Crazy, I know.). Then I tore up pieces of bacon and scattered them throughout (about 3 pieces of bacon total) and roasted everything for about 45 minutes at 350 degrees. I never really thought about eating roasted garlic by itself. I've had them mashed up in potatoes and things like that. But trust me, you'll thanks me when you taste roasted garlic cloves. Seriously. Yummmmm!<br />
<br />
Tonight I am trying Crispy Chicken Wraps. These can be found <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2008/06/crispy-chicken-wraps.html">here.</a> I will again be improvising because I am super broke and food in NYC is priced much like gold!<br />
<br />
1/3 Cup Light Mayo<br />
Onion Powder to taste<br />
Dry Basil to taste<br />
5 Pepperoncini finely chopped<br />
2 Tbsp Light Sour Cream<br />
2 Tbsp. Hot Sauce<br />
Leftover half of rotisserie chicken, skin removed and chicken shredded<br />
Shredded Pepperjack Cheese <br />
Flour Tortillas<br />
<br />
Combine mayo, onion powder, basil, pepperoncini, sour cream and hot sauce. Add shredded chicken and toss to combine. Sprinkle shredded cheese on tortillas leaving 1/2 inch around edges. Arrange the chicken mixture down the center of the tortilla. I will make as many as I have chicken mixture for. The recipe calls for 4 total tortillas. Roll the tortillas up around the chicken, leaving the ends open. Spray the wraps all over with cooking spray. In a non-stick skillet that has been heating up on medium heat for about a minute, place tortillas seam side down and heat until browned (2-3 minutes on each side unless your stove is on steroids like mine, and then plan on it being about a minute for each side)<br />
<br />
I will then be prepping dinner for Wednesday night... Parmesan chicken found <a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2005/11/parmesan-chicken.html">here!</a> Tonight all I have to do is cut slits in defrosted chicken breasts, and marinate them in olive oil, garlic and poultry seasoning. I didn't know what poultry seasoning was, so I Googled it. Because Google knows all, and it has become my only way of problem solving. It says it's a combination of ground sage, ground thyme, ground marjoram (?), ground rosemary, nutmeg and black pepper. Obviously I'll be improvising. I see it going a little something like... some meat tenderizer, nutmeg, thyme and some kosher salt. Anyway, tomorrow I will remove this from the marinade, and drop it directly into a combination of "whole wheat bread crumbs" (also known as whatever kind of bread crumbs are in the cupboard) and Parmesan cheese. These should bake at 425 degrees for about 25 minutes, then a few minutes on each side under the broiler. Chicken should be firm when it's done, which all but ensures you won't die from salmonella poisoning. <br />
<br />
Anyway, I'll let you know how the last two go. But these totally satisfy my need for hot meals for dinner that don't take that much work and will be done quickly, especially with a little prep the night before. Also, choosing things that you have leftover from other recipes or meals seriously cuts down on food cost. And choosing to use light or low fat, or skinless, or simply less of something that isn't great for you will seriously help your health and bathing suit body for that mid-winter vacation that's quickly approaching. The first blog I linked to does weekly meal plans that you can browse that include printable grocery lists (amazeballs!) and the last website is a woman that lost a TON of weight and now has her own food blog with lots of weight friendly recipes that have worked for her! <br />
<br />
Now. If I can stick to healthier recipes, all I need to do is get my at-home gym together.... motivation. I need some moooootivation!<br />
<br />
<br />Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-31753530432756922372011-11-14T11:39:00.001-05:002011-11-14T12:02:53.857-05:00Escape ArtistThis weekend was beautiful outside! I got to spend some time outside on Saturday, but Sunday I was either cleaning or watching football, or whatever. So I decided to open the window a little bit to get some fresh air in my room. I picked up Puka from the bed because I thought she might like to enjoy the fresh air...<br />
<br />
<br />
This bitch tries to jump out the window! And then as I try to drag her back inside she clings to the outside ledge like she's trying to get away from me! Do I need to remind her who feeds her?! I can't imagine why she would want to get away from me...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHW_SKajnc1X8AD4NyHltHa1LKnVgJltfzzB7pkNTZ788738HWzRBm-IIa4ggvW7SUtGmNkZ1YRfIed7FBLpM8exKUL73R1c6BMQpVCTZXtd8wvbxYB0kxLYyJDsQi8LWCnC2Y0fiB00/s1600/Puka+Butt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHW_SKajnc1X8AD4NyHltHa1LKnVgJltfzzB7pkNTZ788738HWzRBm-IIa4ggvW7SUtGmNkZ1YRfIed7FBLpM8exKUL73R1c6BMQpVCTZXtd8wvbxYB0kxLYyJDsQi8LWCnC2Y0fiB00/s320/Puka+Butt.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The time I put sunglasses on her butt to make it look like a face...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bP46yBVIVPGC9A8cGpx0E3mlW97-gEtYd3HeWjdP3dDUYrpI4OQFPqmIaS6NopUafTWWl-kpjDOlwTKuZxqVGBMJVxIu1qQj6ys_DrTuJF4PMJSyHAKCc5woTl6kAv5lHFaRo17uiYc/s1600/Puka%2527s+treat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bP46yBVIVPGC9A8cGpx0E3mlW97-gEtYd3HeWjdP3dDUYrpI4OQFPqmIaS6NopUafTWWl-kpjDOlwTKuZxqVGBMJVxIu1qQj6ys_DrTuJF4PMJSyHAKCc5woTl6kAv5lHFaRo17uiYc/s320/Puka%2527s+treat.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The time I tried to steal her favorite banana toy...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4a-8UhjbCixjezz3gG74jaJJuH6EqaTR7yo5yKktQwWU7d1y26rlpX1UfxfdFtUTkcj5Q96jtmvsayemK7s2Ix89dOwsXsHE-9GeCLr0lFGtxfybXupdaXwi8YAa-2Gpv5Ild8wIcIxw/s1600/Puka.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4a-8UhjbCixjezz3gG74jaJJuH6EqaTR7yo5yKktQwWU7d1y26rlpX1UfxfdFtUTkcj5Q96jtmvsayemK7s2Ix89dOwsXsHE-9GeCLr0lFGtxfybXupdaXwi8YAa-2Gpv5Ild8wIcIxw/s320/Puka.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 3rd time I moved her to a weird new place and she hid for days...</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmzm-TCCKHl-Sd7yvLZJYYVudz9FIVuAyfcIiDrXGEeO6A5pQl2BRcrP5te0DfbmK3wnHDne184RdXPTmzvT_C9NWiIqCpncWr-Hup1dKbi0xScvayjNcOY2NxF6o78HfFVYHyMT2EDM/s1600/Zilla+Under+Couch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmzm-TCCKHl-Sd7yvLZJYYVudz9FIVuAyfcIiDrXGEeO6A5pQl2BRcrP5te0DfbmK3wnHDne184RdXPTmzvT_C9NWiIqCpncWr-Hup1dKbi0xScvayjNcOY2NxF6o78HfFVYHyMT2EDM/s320/Zilla+Under+Couch.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The time I let a puppy chase her around her own house and under the couch...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p2z6bUHYwWATo1UEiMJW6Gp_jT-qQO1acMYDTlrqeMHN2SAYiEBAQeCKhoNnulPeBbdf1-u63t3_x8NDuYZ530e9-1hJlXugRsTIsDUzeCjMt_7YYSdEimnkWp199e4z4oFBOXw0dkY/s1600/Puka+Halloween.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p2z6bUHYwWATo1UEiMJW6Gp_jT-qQO1acMYDTlrqeMHN2SAYiEBAQeCKhoNnulPeBbdf1-u63t3_x8NDuYZ530e9-1hJlXugRsTIsDUzeCjMt_7YYSdEimnkWp199e4z4oFBOXw0dkY/s320/Puka+Halloween.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The second year in a row I made her dress up for Halloween...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMk1J_PPG-rpyepUQSxKpsWaDcNgZUduoRvS4VpAl8tCGrcSMQWzGw4rqDw_WcZ3OMgEnoba0V8p6vRdMD6VDzLhYNEDpYR3dkpsEvPj2GRFCnlfdOR4AJysw8TcOUAbS0AZT6wCby9Y/s1600/drunk+puka+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMk1J_PPG-rpyepUQSxKpsWaDcNgZUduoRvS4VpAl8tCGrcSMQWzGw4rqDw_WcZ3OMgEnoba0V8p6vRdMD6VDzLhYNEDpYR3dkpsEvPj2GRFCnlfdOR4AJysw8TcOUAbS0AZT6wCby9Y/s320/drunk+puka+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The time I set Puka up to look drunk...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIQQGgBeF-SgydiegUrVg4_aq78ET4byogZRFaq4TCvnr6QGduDJBiP7Fdb23lpx7Wcd6rvftQRQH1NXJI7ljX0S5alL0ix2iMBY0gWrTCeutvpPwR-dKsN9EoZPK7kVgZ1Ckt1mxKes/s1600/Puka+New+Years.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIQQGgBeF-SgydiegUrVg4_aq78ET4byogZRFaq4TCvnr6QGduDJBiP7Fdb23lpx7Wcd6rvftQRQH1NXJI7ljX0S5alL0ix2iMBY0gWrTCeutvpPwR-dKsN9EoZPK7kVgZ1Ckt1mxKes/s320/Puka+New+Years.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The time I tried to make Puka wear a New Years tiara that was too big for her...<br />
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OK. I see your point.Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-72049594310140963092011-11-09T14:57:00.000-05:002011-11-09T14:57:57.261-05:00bouncing.. back? bouncing... checks? follow the bouncing ball?OK, I'm coming back around. Last week was frustrating, and the last couple days have been super stressful and LONG at work. But somehow I'm feeling a little bit better. <br />
<br />
I mean... I've still lost most of my faith in humanity, but you know what I'm saying... :)<br />
<br />
So, exciting news! There are PEOPLE! And they're coming HERE! And they aren't staying with me which means if I don't actually get around to picking up my room it's FINE!<br />
<br />
Katie and her boyfriend Bill are headed this way for the weekend, but their debilitating cat allergies are keeping them away from my place. But I get to see them, and that's exciting!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQD3cDSv34nmqJyAHsHagNkn1L9nO9LjC8si_Q6SEvZR_SBP39h0FuxfF3ISCoCgAOX2GZ-6-GCnUL7fh-ev5s4FyDxFet0LgD6hXjoYfvVNVKgKLOXtNFYm63xFWZouWfFoM2bclt6o/s1600/puka+halloween" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQD3cDSv34nmqJyAHsHagNkn1L9nO9LjC8si_Q6SEvZR_SBP39h0FuxfF3ISCoCgAOX2GZ-6-GCnUL7fh-ev5s4FyDxFet0LgD6hXjoYfvVNVKgKLOXtNFYm63xFWZouWfFoM2bclt6o/s320/puka+halloween" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puka says: This was my evil plan all along...</td></tr>
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<br />
Also, Bean-Meister-Flex will be present in the city!<br />
<br />
So YAY for visitors!<br />
<br />
What's not so YAY?<br />
<br />
I just don't understand why people keep taking my money??<br />
<br />
Money was going to be a little tight for these visits anyway because it's the beginning of the month. After I pay my rent, I'm left with about $180 to pay a few small bills, get some groceries and survive the city on. I have cut a bunch of stuff out of my budget to try to pad this at the beginning of the month. I got rid of NetFlix because, seriously? What a rip off! $17 now for movies that are older than what I can get on OnDemand that I'm already paying for on my cable bill? Yeah... I'm good. I also cut out the gym and plan on getting a little work-out gear for at home workouts. <br />
<br />
So. Um. Why then did I still receive a charge on my card for... THE GYM AND NETFLIX?!?!<br />
<br />
OK, Netflix "apparently" didn't "receive" the movie that I had borrowed from them. Which. Yeah right, dudes. Whatever. And it was Bridget Jones' Diary. That movie is SEVERAL years old. I highly doubt anyone paid anywhere close to $15 for that movie. You go ahead and give me my money back, jerk faces.<br />
<br />
The gym? Well the gym was just being one giant bitch. OK, here's how this went. Around October 25th I sent an email to the only person that works at my gym who I have contact information for. Her name is Arlene and she sends out the promotional emails each month. She is also who I called when I transferred my membership from one location to the next. She is ALSO the person that emailed me when I forgot to update my credit card information and my payment wasn't going through. So one would imagine that this is who should be contacted to cancel a membership, no?<br />
<br />
Good. God. I couldn't have been more wrong.<br />
<br />
I email Arlene just to ask if it was possible to freeze my account, how long I could do that for, and how much something like that might cost if anything. Arlene informs me that I am able to freeze my account for a total of 3 months per year, and that there was a $9.95 charge each month for that service. I decided it wasn't worth it to me to pay for something I couldn't use, just to see if I would miss it. I haven't been to the gym in a month. It's pretty safe to say I'm not lying in the fetal position each night crying out "GYM! WHEREFORE ART THOU, GYM?!" So yeah. I told her thanks for the information, but we can go ahead an cancel my membership, and to please let me know what I needed to do, if anything further, to cancel. <br />
<br />
I hear nothing for a few days, and assume that it is something on her end that she had to do, and that she has no interest in continuing chatting with somebody that isn't paying her salary anymore. Fine.<br />
<br />
Except that on October 28th, a charge for $29.99 has been taken out of my account by Boom Fitness.<br />
<br />
Um. Que? <br />
<br />
So I email Arlene and say "Hi Arlene. I had emailed last week saying that I'd like to cancel my membership, and just saw that there was a charge placed to my account for November's membership. Just wondering if we can fix this and I can be reimbursed. Let me know if there is anything I need to do."<br />
<br />
I get this response: "We do not accept cancellations via email. I don't know where you sent your letter, but it was never received here. You are responsible for any charges 30 days after the post-marked date on your letter."<br />
<br />
Whoa, dude. Seriously?<br />
<br />
What letter??<br />
<br />
30 days AFTER the post-marked date on the letter?? Then I need to send this letter, whatever it is, like... today! I don't want to be charged for NEXT month too!<br />
<br />
So I respond "Arlene, I sent you an email 4 days ago stating that I wanted to cancel and to let me know what I needed to do, to which you never responded. Could you please send me a list of information that needs to be included in the letter, as well as the address I need to send it to so that this isn't a problem for next month?"<br />
<br />
This was on a Friday. Monday was October 31st, and the very last day that I could send out the letter to ensure that I wasn't charged unnecessarily again. I get this email:<br />
<br />
"Connie, I have already sent you the cancellation instructions."<br />
<br />
Whoa, bitch. Do NOT play THIS game with me, because I will win! <br />
<br />
I send her an email back and say "Arlene, if you sent an email with the information I requested (what is to be included and the address), I unfortunately never received it. Would you mind re-sending this information?"<br />
<br />
Then I set to looking at the website which is less than helpful. I have to download a copy of their .pdf class schedule just to find the phone number. I call, get the number of the company that handles cancellations (because apparently they outsource this particular office function. Stupid.) and call. I find out that I have to write a letter with my membership number, which I don't have, to an address in Arkansas, where I don't live, in order to cancel a gym membership, which I don't use.<br />
<br />
Oh, and by the way. I HAVE to send it certified mail, which I will have to pay for.<br />
<br />
You have GOT to be kidding me.<br />
<br />
Whatever. I write up the letter, I send it out that day via certified mail, and am golden.<br />
<br />
I hear from Arlene on November 2nd. She sends me all of the information I requested.<br />
<br />
Bitch.<br />
<br />
Had I waited for her response, I would have been liable to pay for another month of membership because December 1st would definitely fall within 30 days of November 1st. <br />
<br />
I didn't respond to her.<br />
<br />
Then we had our staff conference here this week. So I had to do a bunch of overtime and running around. Which is great because it means I can expense cabs and food and whatnot. But that also means that I have to front the money. So with $180 to survive for 2 weeks, people stole $45, and then I spent $51 on expenses... I'm down to $2.85. Which... yeah that does nothing for me. What's super upsetting is that between reimbursements I will be receiving in the next couple days I will be getting $77. If I don't receive this money by Friday though? I'm sca-rude. And I refuse to keep charging to my credit card because I never pay over my "budgeted" amount and I just feel like I'm NEVER gonna pay this stupid thing off, GAH!<br />
<br />
But who knows. Maybe it will all go through and all will be good. Just, keep your fingers crossed for me, yeah? Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-1859461502252038012011-11-03T18:08:00.000-04:002011-11-03T18:08:06.916-04:00ramblings...So here's some stuff about nothing in particular.<br />
<br />
Dear Old Crotchety Man on Wednesday Morning on the Subway,<br />
<br />
Loudly yelling that "EXCUSE ME YOU ARE LEANING ON ME" after you shoved onto the train, which promptly shoved me face-first in the pole where I was wedged for the entire ride thankyouverymuch is not necessary, especially when "Sir, is there any space between your body and the pole you are holding onto? Then I'm gonna have to go ahead and say that YOU are leaning on ME." Asshole.<br />
<br />
Dear Chick That Watched Me Shoved Face First Into A Pole at 8:30am,<br />
<br />
Thanks for yelling at Old Crotchety Man and letting him know that I wasn't leaning on much of anything other than my nose leaning on the pole in front of me, and that this was ALL HIS FAULT and to leave me alone. I feel that if we were in a situation where we could have been in any type of proximity to each other for a longer period of time, you and I would probably have discovered we are kindred spirits. <br />
<br />
<br />
Dear Joshy,<br />
<br />
I love you.... just.... to pieces. But you really got my blood boiling last night at happy hour when I asked why you would do something so scarring to the girl you had wanted to introduce me to just 3 days ago, and you told me not to be so naive. <br />
<br />
Here's the thing. I'm not sure what, in this situation, makes either myself or the girl more naive than yourself. You said she knew what you were like before she got involved, so it shouldn't surprise her at all that after weeks of spending time with her, coming clean about any other girls you had been seeing, and deciding that you were going to exclusively date her, you decide to get up early in the morning to go to help one of the most recent "other girls" move, EVEN after the current girl told you it would bother her. She's naive to think that you wouldn't do that? Doesn't it make you the same kind of naive for getting involved exclusively with someone that you knew before getting involved with her what SHE was like? That she was a normal person looking for a normal relationship? And that after you acted like it was heading in the normal relationship direction, she would assume that it was going to be a normal relationship? But you opted not to believe that, and instead did what "you do". <br />
<br />
All I'm saying is this, you are both in the same boat, and you're upset about the outcome. Yet you act like she has no reason to be upset in the same way. And that's crazy. It's not always the girl's fault, and I for one am tired of that being the case. The reason I don't trust anyone ever is because I know that at the end of the day, if he hurts me, it's my own fault. So why trust?<br />
<br />
Just, do the world a favor and understand that it's FINE if you like no strings attached, or friends with benefits situations exclusively. But that lifestyle comes with the responsibility of not getting involved past a certain point, and if you let a girl fall for you because you are actively becoming part of an exclusive situation with her, then you fail.<br />
<br />
Love you anyway!<br />
<br />
<br />
And lastly, this is something that I have only disclosed to a couple friends, but it still bothers me a lot. And I feel like I'm being petty and stupid and annoying, but it's bumping around in my head and this week has been quite stressful as is. <br />
<br />
I'm. Annoyed?<br />
<br />
Angry a little maybe?<br />
<br />
Sad?<br />
<br />
Disappointed?<br />
<br />
Jealous?<br />
<br />
I don't know... all of the above?<br />
<br />
My whole life has been about doing things "the right way". I got good grades in high school and I didn't drink or smoke or sneak out of the house. I didn't have sex. I joined SADD and the school newspaper and got on teachers' good sides. I had a core group of really phenomenal friends.<br />
<br />
In college I was careful to be safe, and I was concerned about doing well. I worked the whole way through, I was involved on campus, and I made sure I experienced college. Yes I drank, but I did it safely and with friends around. I didn't open any credit cards, and I had a savings account. I didn't drop out, I didn't get pregnant.<br />
<br />
The day after I graduated from College (a rather large accomplishment), my step sister had her wedding. I am her only sister. I wasn't a bridesmaid. She even had 2 bridesmaids drop out before the wedding and I still wasn't asked. I stood and handed out programs. My dad walked her down the aisle. I was his first born, and his only biological daughter. And I didn't get to be the first that he gave away. Within a year of the wedding my sister had a baby, and just months after that she was leaving her husband. <br />
<br />
If I'm honest, it doesn't bother me SO MUCH that my dad gave her away first. What bothers me is that she took away my opportunity to be the first one he gave away when it clearly wasn't that important to her if she could leave her husband a year later, for no apparent reason. But whatever. I put on a happy face, and didn't say anything because what could I possibly say??<br />
<br />
Now I am living in NYC. I have a nice apartment and a good job. I haven't gotten pregnant. I'm paying off debt left and right. I have amazing friends. I have goals. I'm starting my own company. I'm doing REALLY well.<br />
<br />
But now? My little sister - as in the girl that is almost 6 years younger than me - is pregnant. Before she's married. Her baby's father is a crack dealer and currently in jail. My sister is living at home with my mom and step dad with no idea how she might take care of a baby but refusing to do the truly selfless thing of letting someone else raise the baby.<br />
<br />
And again, my opportunity to have my mom's first real grandchild is taken away from me by someone that it's just not that important to. Who wasn't careful. Who has been reckless, even during this pregnancy. <br />
<br />
Maybe it would be different if I could see myself having these experiences at some point. Maybe if I had a great guy by my side that I really wanted to get married to and start a family with, this wouldn't be so tough. But there isn't anybody there. And anybody that has ever been there has treated me rather brutally. So while I can prop myself up on the stuff we were fed our whole lives as girls - that I have great friends, great family, a good job, and lots of great things in my life - I really WANT my dad to give me away. I really WANT my mom to be excited about having her first grandchild from me. And unfortunately, these things can't happen by having great friends, job, etc. <br />
<br />
I feel jipped. And I don't want to feel jipped. I want to be happy for my sisters. And excited. I want to look forward to weddings and babies and becoming an aunt. And instead I just feel bitter. And that's not fair to anyone.<br />
<br />
And again, I could do the whole pick-myself-up-and-dust-myself-off and DO something about the fact that I'm not dating anyone. But all options I am faced with seem far worse than being single for the rest of my life.<br />
<br />
I've done online dating before. I'd much rather die. I want a story. I don't care if it's "we grew up together" or "we met at a mutual friend's birthday dinner" or "I bumped into him at the local bar". But ANYTHING seems better than "So, I was perusing Match.com's lists of photo shopped pictures, when his just JUMPED out at me, so I winked, and he flirted, and after 5 emails and 2 phone calls and numerous text messages we met for a drink, and fell in love!" Death. Just... no. This is very much like my view on church. I get that it works for some people, but this does not work for me. I am not fulfilled by this.<br />
<br />
I am one of the most social people I know. I am constantly out. I go to bars on the weekends, I am out walking around the city every day. I go to the grocery store, and would LOVE to say I met him in the produce section. I bike ride. I go to restaurants. I meet friends of friends. I smile! I take people up on opportunities to try new things. <br />
<br />
But please understand that I am 100% serious that, when I look around, I am horrified by my options. This is a joke, right? THIS is who I get to pick from to procreate with?? Good. Lord. No.<br />
<br />
I told Ana last night that I had found her brother and his colleague to be adorable... but people like that are NOT at this bar!<br />
<br />
I think I'm a bit of a control freak, and knowing that I don't have control over who I will meet when drives me a little crazy. I'm not much of a procrastinator, so when I want something done, I typically get it done. You can't just... get a relationship done... ya know? I also have noticed that I feel victimized in a lot of situations, which I talked to Gia about. <br />
<br />
By the way, my fall TV line up does SOME good. While watching Revenge, the therapist said "as long as you feel like the victim in your relationships, you have no reason for them to do anything but end badly" or something along those lines. So maybe I need to take a bit more control of my personal relationships? Stop feeling like people are constantly taking and stealing from me. If I don't like something, I don't have to actively participate in it, and I can leave. I always have an out. So maybe that more empowering feeling will help me be more comfortable "taking a chance" on someone. Because it's not that great of a risk. There is the risk of letting somebody come into my life, but I can always shove them back out again if they are undeserving. It just needs to be on my terms. Not, after they walk all over me and abandon me and then try to come back, THAT'S when I assert myself. No, no. The minute they push me too far, that's when I need to take control of the situation. Maybe that will work. Who knows. It's exhausting.<br />
<br />
I'm not entirely sure how to end this post because these are just things that I needed to "get down on paper" and out of my head. So I'll leave you with this:<br />
<br />
Last night? Flo found a cockroach on her bed. A big one. Like. 2 inches long. I thought it was a brown praying mantis at first. So tonight? I'll be at home scrubbing the crap out of my apartment.Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-60137182849649597972011-10-26T17:46:00.001-04:002011-10-26T17:46:48.993-04:00How I Kicked Corporate America's Butt... (the protesters should be proud)So, I ran into a bit of a kerfuffle of sorts with both UPS and ConEd this week. I was going to call them on Monday, but that just didn't happen. Tuesday I was in an oddly good and productive mood (which almost never happen at the same time), so I took advantage of the situation and decided to handle these problems right then.<br />
<br />
UPS: <br />
<br />
The issue with UPS actually didn't start officially until after I made this call. I ordered a pair of boots that, SHOCKER, didn't fit around my calves. I needed to send them back, and after reading the return instructions, it just said that the $8 shipping fee would be deducted from my refund. Cool. So I just needed UPS to come and pick up the package. I tried to schedule a pick-up online, but it kept saying that a $9 fee would be charged for this package. To which I said "no, no, UPS. My shipping fee is already paid for and taken care of thanks to pre-printed labeling!". So I call and try to go through their automated system, which is telling me the same thing. So I ask to be connected to a rep who tells me, for the 3rd time. that it will cost $9. So I tell her "No, the shipping charge is already paid for." to which she tells me this:<br />
<br />
"The shipping charge is already handled. But there is a $9 fee associated with package pick-up at a location."<br />
<br />
So let me get this straight. It's $8 for shipping, but $9 for package pick up? So it costs more to have UPS scoop up the package using a local driver than it does to have them actually deliver it across the country? How is that possible? And I ask her "Isn't procuring the package a major part of the actual shipping process? Shouldn't that be included?"<br />
<br />
"No, Ma'am. You have some free options, though."<br />
<br />
"Oh. Well good. What are those?" <br />
<br />
"Well, you can bring it to a UPS location close to you. Or, you can flag down a truck and hand it to the driver."<br />
<br />
....<br />
<br />
<br />
um.<br />
<br />
<br />
....<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I don't think I'll be standing on a corner flagging down UPS men today or, like, ever. Thanks anyway for that. Where are there locations for me to drop off near my home, please?"<br />
<br />
"There's one at 1623 3rd Avenue"<br />
<br />
Now maybe this is just a city thing. I don't know numbers. I don't know where the 1600 block of 3rd avenue is. I need cross streets.<br />
<br />
"What are the cross streets for that location?"<br />
<br />
"It's right around the corner from your house, Ma'am."<br />
<br />
"Well... 3rd avenue is 2 blocks uphill from my apartment, so it's not EXACTLY right around the corner. So I need the cross streets, please?"<br />
<br />
"Is 1st Avenue closer to you?"<br />
<br />
"Well... 1st Avenue runs the entire length of Manhattan, so... it might be, but... I still need the cross streets."<br />
<br />
"OK, for the 1st Avenue location, starting at your apartment you would turn right on York Avenue, right on 81st Street and it will be between York Avenue and 1st Avenue."<br />
<br />
"So it's on 1st Avenue and 81st street? OK.... how about the 3rd avenue location?"<br />
<br />
"Starting at your apartment you would turn right on York Avenue, right on 86th Street, right on 1st Avenue, left on 89th Street and right onto 3rd Avenue."<br />
<br />
"So it's on 3rd Avenue between 89th and 90th? OK great, thanks... I didn't actually need the driving directions..."<br />
<br />
"OK. Anything else?"<br /><br />"Nope." I've already gotten all the useless information I can stand for one day, thanks!<br />
<br />
So, situation sort of handled. I"ll be dropping the package off at their 89th and 3rd location after work...<br />
<br />
ConEd:<br />
<br />
I mean, ConEd is basically always a problem. I'm pretty sure I've mentioned before how my electric bill for a 1 bedroom apartment in Queens was about $300/month. Absolutely crazy. Anyway, our bills over the summer have been completely reasonable, and I was pretty excited about it! (By reasonable, I mean about $50/month for electric alone.) So when I received our September bill and it was over $100, it sort of threw me. We were out of regular air conditioning weather, so one would think it could only go down. But then I realized we had also been in the apartment more in September, so maybe it wouldn't go down. But it certainly wouldn't double! So I called and asked what the deal was.<br />
<br />
I was informed that my meter wasn't working, and that they had switched it out and adjusted our bill accordingly. <br />
<br />
OK, no problem. We paid it in full.<br />
<br />
Last week I received a letter stating that due to indicator lights on our meter, we had not been properly billed for our usage. The meter had been switched out, and here you go! It's a nice little breakdown of how much we are going to charge you for unmetered usage over the last 4 months. KTHXBYE!<br />
<br />
Hold the phone.<br />
<br />
That says $188.95! I'm not giving them $200! That's nutso!<br />
<br />
So I called ConEd. I explain that we had paid all of our bills, including the adjusted September bill, in full, and wasn't sure why I was being billed an additional $188.95. <br />
<br />
So the lady on the other end says to me, "So, what had happened was........." And I knew right there that this was gonna be good! All I had to do was keep my calm and enjoy the ride.<br />
<br />
".... on August 22nd, our meter readers realized that there were indicator lights on your meter that meant that the meter wasn't correctly reading the usage for the apartment. So on September 7th we changed out the meter, and adjusted your September bill. Now we are going through and adjusting previous bills that were effected by the incorrect readings."<br />
<br />
"But, then why am I being adjusted so far back if it only became a problem in August? I see that I had an actual reading at the end of June, an estimated reading at the end of July and an actual reading at the end of August."<br />
<br />
"Well, we don't know when it became a problem. Our meter readers only noticed in in August."<br />
<br />
"So, it could have been broken for years, or just a couple days, but you're going to charge me $188.95 to cover potentially wrong readings back through my move-in date? I'm sorry, but I'm not comfortable handing over $200 for charges that you aren't positive I owe."<br />
<br />
"Well, we just took daily readings and applied it to your previous bills, crediting you for what you already paid."<br /><br />"But you aren't sure that those readings weren't already correct?"<br />
<br />
"Well, we're pretty sure they aren't."<br />
<br />
"Well, OK. I'm not saying that we don't owe you anything extra at all. And I know that you have a business to run and that you probably weren't paid for the amount of service you provided. But I'm not really sure how it is my responsibility to pay for your meters not being maintained properly, for your meter readers not noticing indicator lights for, what you are assuming was, a couple of months, and for you not billing me correctly."<br />
<br />
"Well, it wasn't just you. This effected several of your neighbors and they were billed as well."<br />
<br />
This is what we call "not helping your case".<br />
<br />
"I'm not saying that you are singling me out. And if they want to go ahead and pay the adjustments you sent them, that's totally fine. However, I need to be sure that's what I owe before I hand it over. So if you can prove to me that that was what I used, I'll pay it."<br />
<br />
"What makes you think it's not what you owe?"<br />
<br />
"My roommate and I were barely around over the summer. Between working, being away on the weekends, going on vacations, etc. we didn't have the A/C running much, or the lights on, or the TV on. All appliances were unplugged, computers traveled with us so those weren't plugged in. There just wasn't much usage. And in September we were at the apartment more. So our average daily usage in September was much higher than our average daily usage in July."<br />
<br />
"Well even if you weren't there, there's still going to be a bill. Do you have proof that you weren't at the apartment?"<br />
<br />
I should have just forwarded her the link to this blog, but instead I said:<br />
<br />
"I do have receipts and tickets from buses and trains and flights and hotels, but I don't think that's my responsibility either. I am paying you for a service. Rather than my proving I DIDN'T use it, I think it's your job and responsibility to prove that I DID use your service. Unfortunately, the bill you sent me is unmetered <br />"usage", so I don't know how you'll prove that I used any of that. If you can, though, I'd be more than happy to send you a check right away."<br />
<br />
.....<br />
<br />
<br />
.....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
...."I'll review your account and get back to you."<br />
<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen, I call that a win. I read the law that they said they were operating legally under. While they didn't do anything ILLEGAL, and the law does state that they can adjust any bill for up to a year, it doesn't say it can be adjusted for some number they are basically pulling out of the air and have no proof of. If that's the case, then I'd like to "adjust" my bills in Queens and demand a refund for the last year of my lease down to $100/month rather than $300 or $400... just... because. It was OVER metered service, is what that was. I feel if you can charge me for UNmetered usage, I can demand a refund for OVER metered usage. Yup, seems fair to me!<br />
<br />
I'll keep you updated on all that. But if you are thinking about moving to NYC... beware of ConEd, and be sure you get into a place that has gas cooking, and pays for gas, heat and hot water. Because otherwise, you are SCREWED. <br />
<br />
Just a couple of housekeeping things.<br />
<br />
I totally forgot to wish Papa a VERY happy 90th birthday on October 17th! I was able to celebrate with him and my family on the 16th. But 90 years old deserves being blogged about! <br />
<br />
Congratulations to Joanne Haake on her nuptial to Ralph on October 15th, 2011 and for letting me be there to celebrate!<br />
<br />
And official announcement:<br />
<br />
Somewhere round about March 22nd, 2011 I will become an Anutie again! My sister Jeannine is expecting, and that's news that I have been holding in since July! Feels great to be able to tell everybody, since this blog is evidence of my not keeping quiet about much...<br />
<br />Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-24796746960380681472011-10-20T09:56:00.001-04:002011-10-20T09:56:45.107-04:00Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Remember this book? Yeah? This kid thought he had problems. I'd take his day any day. Except for the part where they didn't have his choice of shoes. That would never do.</div>
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Anyway... Monday was literally quite possibly the worst day of my life. </div>
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Well.</div>
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OK fine, that was an exaggeration.</div>
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But it was pretty rough!</div>
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Allow me to commiserate.</div>
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My roommate has been late every day this week, and I think she was even late last week too. She is supposed to be at work at 8am, which would mean she needs to leave our apartment at 7:30 each morning. Well she apparently doesn't care much about getting to work on time because she just gets herself into the shower at 7:30, which is about the time I need to be getting in to leave at 8:15 or so. So on Monday, I was of course running late. No big deal, it's only 5 minutes (because I was a speed demon and I don't like to think about what I probably missed in the shower due to the rushing). I'll grab the bus and save 10 minutes of walking and I should be good to go. </div>
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So I wait a minute to board the bus, only to find out that my unlimited monthly pass is expired.</div>
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Now, I've seen this happen to a hundred people. And each time, the driver is usually just like "it's expired. Go ahead, it's fine." and lets them on the bus. Does this happen to me?</div>
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Have you ever read my blog before?</div>
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Of COURSE it doesn't happen to me! So now I'm running about 7 minutes behind schedule, and can't catch the bus to make up that time. Awesome.</div>
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I finally get to the subway, and since my card is expired, I get to wait in the FOREVER long line to get up to the machine. I wait. And wait. And wait. I finally get to the machine. I punch all the buttons as fast as I can and wait for it to "process payment".</div>
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Processing...</div>
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Processing...</div>
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"We're sorry, we cannot process your payment at this time. Try again?"</div>
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HELL YEAH TRY AGAIN! I have to get to work!</div>
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"We're sorry, we cannot process your payment at this time. Try again?"</div>
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Gah.</div>
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No. I'll take a $5 card, which goes through. On the same credit card I was using for the monthly unlimited pass. Ugh.</div>
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Then I try to get through the FOREVER long line to get to the gates to get to the train to make it to work only DECADES late. I say excuse me (because I get violently angry when people shove through the line, or push past me. So rude.) 4 times and this girl just sort of stands there, or looks at me like "what?" so I yell in her face "EXCUSE ME!!!!!!!!" "You don't have to be rude." "I SAID EXCUSE ME 4 TIMES, WHERE WERE YOU WHEN I WAS IN NICE MODE?!" </div>
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I will, from now on, be simply pushing through the line. Forget this crap.</div>
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I get to the train, I get to work, I get into the office. I take a deep breath, and dial the 1-800 number on the back of my Bank of America Debit card.</div>
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Now. This whole declining payment thing has happened in the past. I don't get it. It's not over the daily limit, it's not a large dollar amount, it's not a strange charge, it's not out of my area of regular use. Every month this happens, I get a call asking to verify that it was me that had tried to make these declined charges. Nothing ever changes. When I call this time, it dumps me directly into this automated system. I foolishly thought that it would give me the option to talk to a customer service rep at the end of this crap. I was so very wrong. So I call back, and it tells me that it is "unable to transfer my call. Good bye." </div>
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WTF?!?!?!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So I call again, and lie to the automated lady, saying that I want to add some sort of service to my banking...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
... And got a real person!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
SUCKAS! Connie 1, automated lady.. like 409309842. But still. I'll take the victory.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
She answers the phone all jolly, and I say very slowly and calmly:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Every single month, on approximately the exact same date, and approximately the same time, at the exact same machine, for the exact same amount, I make a purchase. And every single month, you decline my charge, and every single month you call me and have me go through the automated steps, and every single month I tell you that yes it was me making the charge, yes it is a valid charge. And still, every single month, you block my card. And this not only makes me EXTREMELY upset, but it also slows myself and everyone in line behind me at rush hour down." So she takes a look and can't figure it out. Because it's not over the daily limit. And it's not a large dollar amount. And it's not a strange charge. And it's not out of my regular area of use.</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Yeah.</div>
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So she transfers me to some other group of people that... I don't know... handles all subway card purchase issues or something.</div>
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The guy says "OK, I've made a note in your file that this is an acceptable monthly charge, and shouldn't be blocked." And I ask "Can you tell me why it was blocked in the first place?"</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
This is his explanation.</div>
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"Sometimes when people use their cards at vending machines, like Coke machines, we block the charge because we aren't sure that it is the actual cardholder making the purchase."</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
.....</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Wait.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"So you're telling me that if I am dying of thirst one day, and I try to use my card to buy myself a coke, that you might block my transaction because you aren't sure if this $2.00 charge is valid?"</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Sir, please. Don't block these on my card. If someone steals my card to purchase a Coke because they are dying of thirst, I will eat that charge. Really. It's fine."</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This was all before 10am.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Work was a total madhouse. My accounts payable team just despises me, apparently. Also? Nobody on my team can seem to keep track of receipts. And although I tell them repeatedly to just give me their receipts after they charge something to their card and I can keep them filed for them, they refuse. And then I'm left dealing with crap when receipts are missing. So ridiculous. So that was my day at work, summed up very quickly. Because that's not something I wish to re-live. Although Tuesday and today have been the same way. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Moving on.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So I leave work. Terri couldn't walk to the "new" Trader Joe's with me anymore, and I decide to make it a highly productive night. I will go to Trader Joe's, make it home by 8 at the latest. Then I'll do laundry (because I was down to my last pair of underwear, and only a couple pairs of mis-matched socks left.), and make some dinner intermittently. Then I'll snuggle into the couch for an hour or two before bed.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yeah.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here's how that went.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I got to the 123 train, and tried to purchase my monthly unlimited card. Because I had been ASSURED by Bank of America a solid 8 hour prior that this had been noted as an acceptable charge. Guess what declined my card again? </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Fabulous.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I use another $2.25 off the card I bought that morning, which will, in fact, get me to Trader Joe's, but not home. So I get to Trader Joe's on 72nd and Broadway. By the way? Super nice store! Completely packed, but I got everything I needed and it felt like they had a LOT more selection than the one in Union Square. I could be wrong, but I don't think I am. I think there's also supposed to be a wine store there that I didn't see yet. I'll scope it out next time. Anyway, I get so much stuff that it turns out needing 3 bags. 3 bags to carry all the way to the East Side is a lot, in case you were wondering. But I need all this stuff, so I follow Tim Gunn's advice and make it work.</div>
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</div>
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<img class="rg_i" height="161" name="2BvkklrRTm0pNM:" src="data:image/jpg;base64,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" style="cursor: move; margin: 0px 0px 0px -2px;" unselectable="on" width="117" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Knowing that my stupid Bank of America card wouldn't be working (I am switching to Chase next week, just btw.) I stopped by the ATM and got $120, because ATMs only dispense $20 increments. I get to the third Subway Card machine of the day, and remember they only give cold coins for change. Ugh. Nobody has change for a $20, so I say Eff This and just go for it. I'm doing laundry that night, so it's not like I'll have to hold on to the gold coins for long. I put in the $120.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"MAXIMUM CHANGE $6, CHANGE?"</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hold on.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
People feed this machine money all day long, and the most change it can give me is $6? Awesome. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So. I pick up my 3 heavy bags. Walk back across the street to the Hallal truck and flirt it up with whoever that guy is to give me 4 $5s for my $20. He does, and he is friendly, and was the one ray of sunshine in my shit storm of a day.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I pick up my 3 heavy bags, and go back across the street. I get my freaking subway card FINALLY, and get onto the subway, struggling the whole way to carry the bags through the tiny gates, or down the tiny stairs. Apparently you must be tiny to live or work at 72nd and Broadway. But I get on the train. I get to 86th and Broadway, which is where I will exit the train and catch the bus across town to 1st Ave. I get off the train, and set my giant bags down on the bench to readjust. I pick the bags back up and...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
... I bet you called this from the beginning...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
... no shocker here...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One of the bag's handle breaks. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Well that makes it easier. Thanks for that.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I somehow try to hold the two ends of the now broken handle together in my hand with 3 other handles, while also balancing out weight, and getting through gates and up two flights of stairs..... just in time to see the bus pull up to the bus stop half of a block away from me. If I don't make this bus, there won't be another one for at least 15 minutes. It's cold, it's rainy, I'm exhausted. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I knew I wasn't going to make it.</div>
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There's no way.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yet somehow, a line formed for the bus, giving me JUST enough time to rush (as fast as I could what with all the hobbling) up to the door just as it was closing and get on the bus. Apparently, God had seen enough funny for one day and decided to smile on this one thing.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I get settled, and am rubbing my aching shoulders and back as we make our way across town.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then a girl gets on the bus, and her card buzzes to say it's expired. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Can you guess what happens?</div>
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CAN YOU?</div>
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Bus Driver: "It's expired, hun. Go ahead, it's fine."</div>
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GAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! (me: Shakes fists in the air) </div>
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We get to 1st Avenue. I get off the bus, and have to set the bags down for a rest no less than 5 times on the way home. I carry them up, 1 at a time, from my front door into my apartment on the 2nd floor. I unpack them, and start to separate laundry. It's about 8:30. And I realize that I am completely out of detergent.</div>
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I sort of want to cry.</div>
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Instead, I change into sweats, grab my wallet and keys, and head back to Duane Reade to pick up some detergent (which is ungodly expensive, by the way. When did that happen?!). I walk home, pick up my load of darks, and head over to the laundromat. I dump my clothes into a machine, add detergent, and take my new $5 bills over to the change machine. Now. The machine costs $6.50, and the dryers cost $.25 for 6 minutes of use. Connie, if you only put in a $5 bill for change, YOU WILL NOT HAVE ENOUGH. So I had to go back to the change machine.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I go to put quarters in the washer and.... what's this? Oh. It's TAPE OVER THE COIN DROP BECAUSE THE MACHINE DOESN'T WORK.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
well that's just dandy. Really. So I put all of my clothes in the next machine, and try to forget about the two caps of detergent I just wasted in the first machine.</div>
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At this point, I'm horrified to go home and attempt to make dinner. I mean, my God. The way my day was going? It's entirely possible that I might burn the house down! Maybe even the block! But I was starving and felt like I had spent plenty of money that day. I think I can heat something on the stove successfully. Thankfully, this went well, and I had some gnocchi and meatballs for dinner. Thank you, Trader Joe's. Jebus!</div>
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I go back to the laundromat, and pull out my clothes. I separate them by what I want to hang dry and what I want to throw in the dryer. After I have my clothes in the dryer and am about to start putting coins in it, a guy comes around the corner to check on his clothes and says "That machine's broken! We already tried it!" </div>
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<br /></div>
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Do you realize that this means in one night, I put my clothes in the only two broken machines in the entire laundromat? What are the ODDS?!? </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Anyway. When laundry was done, I put myself to bed. That is ENOUGH! I am sort of proud that I didn't give up half way through and just say Eff it. Maybe I should have. But whatever... thank GOD Monday is over. I'd really like to know why Monday has it out for me! I'm skipping them from here on out. Next Monday you can find me in bed.</div>Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-64216139183398819232011-10-13T12:49:00.001-04:002011-10-13T12:50:11.120-04:00My God. How am I not just asleep right now?I'm not going to lie... I have referred back to my previous post several times over the last week. If I don't, I will DEFINITELY miss out on a show. So I guess I'd like to thank myself with boring you with those details??<br />
<br />
I'd also like to say, ABC YOU SUCK for getting me totally hooked on New Girl in just 3 episodes, and then cold heartedly taking it away from me in some sort of teaser to return at some point in the future. UGH! <br />
<br />
Just a few things about this week, because it's been... well... wait for it.<br />
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So last weekend Alyssa was in town. We had an AMAZING weekend! The weather couldn't have been better! Although her drive sucked, I didn't have to be part of it, and so I'm not including that in this blog. Because it's my blog and I can edit as I see fit :) We did it all! Friday night we went to what is becoming my local watering hole... sans any trace of water of course. It's called The BullPen and I have no idea why. Anyway. Did that. Slept in WAY late on Saturday because Lady (Alyssa's adorable puppy) just couldn't calm down all night which kept us awake. So we got up, got dressed and went and grabbed a delish meatball sub from Luigi's (my go-to pizzeria) to eat in Central Park. We found a nice shaded area and enjoyed. Then we walked through the park. I feel like we did it really fast, but maybe it's just that time flies when you're having fun! We saw the boathouse, the lake, the Bethesda Fountain, the Friendship Fountain, the Mall (where movies have been filmed like Brown Sugar, Maid in Manhattan, Real Housewives of New York... that sort of thing...) and headed out of the park. We stopped by Times Square for a quick photo op and then high tailed it out of that madness! God I hate that area. If you come to New York, avoid it. It's expensive, overly crowded, and mostly retail now which is all over priced. There are better things you can do with your time in NYC. Such as.... cabbing up to 61st between 2nd and 3rd! Know what's there? Serendipity! And Dylan's Candy Bar! Both of which we visited and conquered! Dylan's Candy Bar is a HUGE candy store that has everything you could want, and is owned by Ralph Lauren's daughter. It's very cool, and hip with the under 13 crowd. Then we enjoyed a peanut butter frozen hot chocolate and a "cowards portion" Banana Split of which Alyssa and I could only consume maybe half of... so does that make us double cowards? That's sad. Also! There is an AMAZING boutique next door that I cannot remember the name of. But if you have a few thousand dollars to drop you should definitely stop in!<br />
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.......<br />
<br />
yeah.<br />
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I did stop in, and the clothes were just to die for. They were beautiful and there really wasn't one thing that I wasn't interested in. Something that is within my budget, but still a splurge, were suede teal or red heels with big bows on the foot strap. Holy lord they were adorable and really added a certain <span a="undefined" c="4" class="short_text" closure_uid_1d6d66="117" id="result_box" lang="fr" tc="null"><span class="hps" closure_uid_1d6d66="106" tc="null">Je ne sais pas</span> <span class="hps" closure_uid_1d6d66="107" tc="null">ce que... but God I loved them and will probably be going back soon. And I think I'm getting the teal ones. $128 and by far the least expensive thing in the store. But they fit my feet like... well "gloves" seems inappropriate here. But you get the idea.</span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" c="4" class="short_text" closure_uid_1d6d66="117" lang="fr" tc="null"><span class="hps" closure_uid_1d6d66="107" tc="null">That night we headed down to Reservoir Bar in Union Square and visited Miranda. We had some DELISH burgers and enjoyed some libations. Then Alyssa fell asleep on the subway home. Epic. The city just wears her out I guess! Got home and crashed! Sunday we were woken up at 9am by Alyssa's brother who lives in Brooklyn. He was having some hefty car trouble and needed us to come save him and his dog from the side of the road. This turned into a couple hour rescue, so we ended up going to a bar on 14th street between 1st and 2nd in the East Village. Oddly, this pub didn't serve foot (say what now??) but we could bring our own in. Thank GOD for that little rule because I have discovered a pizzeria that rivals Luigi's. Actually, Alyssa's brother introduced us, so I can't take all the credit. It is called Artichoke, and was located directly across the street. We got a spinach and artichoke pizza pie. This is not something that I would probably order on my own. But it has become the thing I crave most in this world. It was just phenomenal. I am lacking words to describe this pizza. So I'll stop. But GO THERE. SERIOUSLY. They have 3 locations. Who is surprised there isn't one near me?</span></span><br />
<span a="undefined" c="4" class="short_text" closure_uid_1d6d66="117" lang="fr" tc="null"><span class="hps" closure_uid_1d6d66="107" tc="null"><br />We finished watching the game uptown, and got mani/pedis afterwards. My toes are now electric blue and sparkly. I just wanted sparkly. The manicurist suggested I put a base color on first and then put sparklies on top. OK cool, you can pick the color. Well ok then, I guess I look like an electric blue kind of girl. Good to know. But it is super fun and totally unexpected. When I changed my shoes at work today I was caught by surprise by it somehow... so fun.<br /><br />OK, so Alyssa left on Sunday night. Monday I woke up with SEVERE back pain. Like, could barely move, bending and walking was awful, and I had no idea how to fix it. So I trucked along... and then Tuesday was absolutely no better. I was supposed to walk home from work with Terri and then have a late dinner with Davine. The walking was definitely not happening. After 4 extra strength Tylenol and no relief, I knew it was bad. I went home. Sat down on my bed. bent over and placed my hands on the floor, then laid back and twisted and *POP*!!!!<br /><br />O.<br /><br />God.<br /><br />Was that a good pop? Or a bad pop? .....????? GOOD OR BAD?! GOOD OR BAD??! I sat up slowly and... miracle of all miracles... my back pain was completely gone! I felt great. I got up and walked around, I bent down to pick something up... I sat down and stood up again... I felt great!<br /><br /><br /><br />Davine and I went to Blockhead's for dinner. She was stressing out and needed some cheap delish drinks. I just always am in the mood for TexMex! And guess what everybody????? Davine has been cast in the Broadway rendition of Ghost!!!!!!!!! They are still in negotiations, but assuming all goes according to plan, the show will start after the new year!!! She will be playing the part that Whoopi Goldberg played in the original movie. I am just so so thrilled and proud of her! If you are in NYC and get a chance to go to a show, see this one! Davine and phenomenal!<br /><br />Last night was my happy hour/dinner at home with Ana. Ana was having a rough... day? week? No no, month! So we made some chili so she could have some comfort food, and drank a bottle and a half of wine and were pretty happy, watching my Wednesday line-up. By the way? PLEASE watch last night's Modern Family. I was almost peeing myself, and laughing so hard I couldn't breathe when Cam and Marshall get in a hit-and-run accident. Just listen for the words "He's getting away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I looked for the clip but it's not uploaded anywhere yet. Holy lord it's epic!<br /><br />So then, Ana finds out that her brother? From North Carolina? Is totally in NYC right at that very moment. And actually was eating dinner at a restaurant right next to my office. So we met up with him and his colleague after a bottle and a half of wine and shared 2 pitchers of beer at... again... my local watering hole. The bartender is starting to remember me... which is cool? I guess..? <br /><br />Anyway, super unexpected and such a fun week! Tonight is dinner at Terri's! We're having a crock pot meal which just screams fall and I am finally coming to terms with the changing seasons. I guess. Why yes I am wearing a tank top under my sweater in case of an extreme change in weather, why do you ask?<br /><br />This weekend I head back to Hershey for Grandma Haake's wedding. Just... stay tuned for that. It's also Papa's 90th birthday party! WOOP WOOP! So should be a fun weekend. Tomorrow night I have tentative plans with some old high school friends to meet at... the local watering hole in Hershey.... WHAT?! Ugh. I know, must slow it down. Anyway, I'll be back with an update on that.<br /><br />Just a few things from this week not mentioned because it didn't fit in the stories above:<br /><br />I was verbally assaulted by a man that just MUST be crazy. He was clearly a white man, and was walking down the street talking loudly about "look at all these miserable white people", and then started commenting on a girl's ass in a loud obnoxious way? So I just looked at him and said "enough" to which he took as an invitation to tell me to "go back where I came from" which... I mean... I'm American? And living here in the United States? So... not sure what he was aiming for. He also assured me that I wouldn't have said anything to a black man, because if he was black he would have smacked the... poop.... out of me. Um. For those people that know me, they know why that's funny. But at that point I just started laughing at him because there was no where left to go with this and he continue spewing hatred at me and then stormed off. Okey dokey then.<br /><br />I am on a hunt for tall boots that fit me. I have very thick calves and have a TON of trouble with this. In fact, all of my boots are on the shorter side and scrunch boots because they won't ever fit up my calves. So I started looking at wide calf boots. One would assume this would fix all problems? No. I suggest you measure your calf. If your calves are about 13 or 14 inches around? You're good to go for normal boots. 15 inches require wide calf. I have 18 inch calves. Do you know what that means? WIDE LEG BOOTS DON'T EVEN FIT ME! So I had to go for EXTRA wide leg. I was looking at a website. I just want some sleek, cognac colored boots to wear over skinny jeans and leggings, or to pair with dresses. Nothing crazy or out there. Can't find them. I ordered a pair and they zipped just up to where my calf muscle begins and just....stopped. So that was out, and I have to return them. Now, I found another pair that I actually like more and they go from size 7-12. As the size of the boot gets bigger.... (get this).... THE ACTUAL BOOT GETS BIGGER! It's a miracle! They start at 17inches wide at size 7 and go up to 20 inches at size 12. So I'm thinking these should work right? Well I might try them. but the reviews say that people looking for a size 8-8.5 with 18 inch calves aren't having much luck. UGH! So that search continues. Let me know if you have any suggestions. <br /><br />I guess that's it for now. I'm going to heat up my leftover chili for lunch :) Enjoy your weekend! It's supposed to be beautiful and very fall and lovely! You know... for people that like that sort of thing...</span></span>And it's been better ever since!Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-59088896219634919222011-10-06T13:13:00.000-04:002011-10-07T09:15:10.847-04:00Fall TV Owns My Life...I am aware that it's popular to say that you just don't love TV all that much. That it just doesn't really suck you in. That you'd MUCH rather be doing something else, up and moving, going to the gym, doing charity work, helping children, rescuing puppies from abandoned buildings... I get it. <br />
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I am the exception to this rule.<br />
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I LOVE me some TV. And this fall lineup? Is KILLING me! It's too much! There's too much scheduling! Too much planning! And on top of that, the Netflix that I still haven't canceled since they decided to double the cost continues to drop movies into my mailbox that I JUST CAN'T WAIT TO WATCH. Ugh.<br />
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I would be lying if I said that this post wasn't a little selfish. But I guess that can be said for everything I write. Either way, I need to break down each day and what show is on so that I can keep my sanity and life together! And yes I know you didn't ask, nor do you probably care what I think of all of these shows (Good God, there are so many), but if you continue reading you're going to find out anyway.<br />
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*Deep Breath*<br />
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<strong>Monday</strong>:<br />
<em>Gossip Girl </em>8pm-9pm CW <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="194" data-width="259" height="194" id="rg_hi" 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" style="height: 194px; width: 259px;" width="259" /><br />
I am completely obsessed with this show. Blair Waldorf makes me happy, and I want to marry Chuck Bass because he's not really as awful as he seems. Plus, so much of this is filmed near where I live, or where I hang out, or where I work that it makes me feel connected to it. I just love it!<br />
<br />
<em>Heart of Dixie </em>9pm-10pm CW <img height="159" id="il_fi" src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTq3rgMw06M08FAddriDn9r8HfDBe0DgEoY6jN6DiwHCHIUbWYE1JKKQASGkg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="318" /><br />
I haven't seen this yet, but I have heard good things. I love Rachel Bilson, but only know her as Summer from the OC, so I am pretty excited to see her in something else. I'll try to give this a try... sometime...ish...<br />
<br />
Football 8pm onward, and this is only if a team in the NFC East is playing, or it's a good match up. <br />
<br />
This is also typically the day that I say to myself "Self, you have been a lazy bum all weekend, or you ate really terribly, or drank your weight in alcohol and you need to get some exercise" So I'll walk home from work or go to the gym (except not at all in the last 2 weeks. Ugh.) which puts me home around 7:30pm or later anyway. <br />
<br />
<strong>Tuesday</strong>:<br />
<em>Glee</em> 8pm-9pm Fox <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="172" data-width="293" height="172" id="rg_hi" src="data:image/jpg;base64,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" style="height: 172px; width: 293px;" width="293" /><br />
I admit I am not a die hard fan. But everytime I watch this show I love it! So I'm not sure why it hasn't because a must see. I LOVE Sue Sylvester. I only saw the first episode this season so far, (8pm is super early for me to be ready to watch TV) and it was ok. the music was ok, whatever they have going on with Quinn is weird and not likely, even if she did go through a weird crises with the baby and all. But in general, I like it.<br />
<br />
<em>Last Man Standing</em> 8pm-8:30pm ABC <img alt="" height="107" src="http://cdn.media.abc.go.com/m/images/global/generic/shows_197x107/last-man-standing.jpg" width="197" /><br />
This is Tim Allen's new show, which doesn't begin airing until October 11th. However. I do love Tim Allen and miss watching Home Improvement all the time. The only thing I would love more is if they brought back Jonathan Taylor Thomas for an episode or two because my 5th grade self would jump for freaking joy!<br />
<br />
<strong>Wednesday</strong>:<br />
<em>The Middle</em> 8pm-8:30pmABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="201" data-width="251" height="201" id="rg_hi" 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" style="height: 201px; width: 251px;" width="251" /><br />
This. Is. Awesome. Such a funny family and I love Patricia Heaton, except that she will always be Deb Barone from Everybody Loves Raymond. I caught this show last week when the kids told her that their father was above her in the house heirarchy. AMAZING! So so cute, but not something I catch every week.<br />
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<em>Suburgatory</em> 8:30pm-9pm ABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="168" data-width="300" height="168" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRxHxIVJN4je5GzYuIfDulkZBiFqh4qDzFCtwsHEMuURLpnCPMO" style="height: 168px; width: 300px;" width="300" /><br />
Just caught this last week and it's like my own nightmare realized. It's about a teenage girl and her dad leaving NYC to move to the suburbs because he finds a pack of unopened condoms in her dresser drawer. The girl is beautiful, but definitely a bit too edgy for the suburbs and she hates it. She's fantastically sarcastic, and her dad is pleasantly hot, so it makes for a good watch. <br />
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<em>Modern Family</em> 9pm-9:30pmABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="253" data-width="171" height="253" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ-xDYXTNETjK40jh_PLJHwalC8lCC3RK4xc3Tm_4LP49MGe_ia" style="height: 253px; width: 171px;" width="171" /><br />
If you don't know what this is about, you're living under a rock. Last week, Mitchell and Cam went on a liquid diet. Cam got violent and weepy, Mitchell lost his ever loving mind, and Gloria tried to get the dog to hate everyone, not just her. It was fantastic.<br />
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<em>New Girl</em> 9:30pm-10pm Fox<img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="273" data-width="184" height="273" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTrPHYNU6GZRsFVQLNfC2WQ49O4r9u_7TD5sscqTPXHsQqYo4NG" style="height: 273px; width: 184px;" width="184" /><br />
I love this show. After the pilot, the character of "Coach" was done away with (he moved on to Happy Endings) and was replaced by Winston. I still feel like Winston is an outsider, but I'm willing to give him a chance. Zooey Deschanel is just freaking amazing and goofy and lovable. I love the other two roommates, Schmidt (who I am fairly certain is gay but nobody is agreeing with me yet. You'll all see.) and Nick who is pretty much my dream boyfriend until he starts drinking scotch in a photo booth... watch it, you won't be disappointed!<br />
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<em>Happy Endings</em> 9:30pm-10pmABC <img class="rg_i" data-sz="f" height="85" name="HCtDh2NUSgN3-M:" src="data:image/jpg;base64,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" width="157" /><br />
I've only seen this once, but I liked it. Not great acting, totally a sitcom. But the girl Penny just bought her own condo and really feels like she's getting herself together. But then finds that guys are intimidated by her, and that the condo may be cursed. She comes home to find like 12 cats inside and she's horrified she's going to end up an old spinster/cat lady. But with the help of friends she has a great house warming party and they all pull it together. There's also a bit of exes trying to be friends, newly weds (an interracial couple *GASP*!) and lots of fun situations. I'll keep you posted on this... (I probably won't.)<br />
<br />
<em>Revenge</em> 10pm-11pm ABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="168" data-width="299" height="168" id="rg_hi" src="data:image/jpg;base64,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style="height: 168px; width: 299px;" width="299" /><br />
So this has Emily VanCamp as the main character, who played Rebecca on Brothers and Sisters. This is kind of a dark show (you don't say! The title certainly didn't give that away... geez my writing has gone down the tubes.) about a girl who learns the truth about her father and their sordid past, and she's back for... wait for it... REVENGE. I know, who saw that coming? So she is systematically ruining the peoples' lives who ruined her's and her father's. Last week she financially ruined a hedge fund guy. There's also quite a bit of eye candy in this show, and tons of intrigue with unlikely friends... I think this is a keeper.<br />
<br />
<strong>Thursday</strong>:<br />
<br />
<em>Project Runway </em>9pm-10:30pm Lifetime <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="211" data-width="239" height="211" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR0Gyf53Z9kytCzOI5kxmeL9W2jZHLlSjtyWhquC0v09g14WvW7vA" style="height: 211px; width: 239px;" width="239" /><br />
I forgot to put this in my original post, so I am updating it now. I can't believe I forgot this! I am rather annoyed that the show goes from 9 until 10:30, because that just throws off the flow of the other three shows that I MUST watch. Last night I watched this, then switched over to the next show that was half way DVR'd watched from the beginning, and still missed two shows which I will catch up on... sometime... Anyway, Project Runway this season is interesting. I am not as blown away by one particular designer over another as I have been in past years. I was very ahppy they finally got rid of the designer they did last night because he has been crap the whole way through and I think they kept him on for demographics. Annoying. <br />
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<em>Grey's Anatomy</em> 9pm-10pmABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="108" data-width="285" height="108" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQUtIeGH5F-kLt-ZR0fphd8TZBjKDRUfEUFgSYkUugkOPXg763W" style="height: 108px; width: 285px;" width="285" /><br />
This is one of those shows that I have a loyalty to. I've watched it since the first season and I'm obsessed. Although I do feel like they are losing it a little bit and pushing for action, I still love these characters. And that opening music gets me every time!<br />
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<br />
<em>Jersey Shore </em>10pm-11pm MTV<img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="168" data-width="224" height="168" id="rg_hi" 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" style="height: 168px; width: 224px;" width="224" /><br />
Don't judge me. I'm obsessed. I've been watching this for so long that it has completely drawn me in. I have a huge crush on Vinny and I'd love to be BFFs with Paulie and JWow. I think Ronnie and Dina are incredibly annoying, and Sammy is just dumb. Mike has literally lost his mind. Snookie is a total train wreck. Put it all together and it's an hour that I refuse to miss each week!<br />
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<em>Private Practice</em> 10pm-11pm ABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="194" data-width="259" height="194" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSWBoJFol_KkDUMtugQGDqbqUrghDbXbgD2mTDHks6ZKfa2pBST" style="height: 194px; width: 259px;" width="259" /><br />
And another one that I am loyal to. I love Addison Montgomerey, and hellloooo?!?! Taye Diggs is on my 50 inch every week! You just can't argue with that. Not a great story line, and seems pretty cyclical. Charlotte has gotten too nice. O shocker, Violet is running off again. And yes we KNOW Addison wants a baby... we get it... my GOD someone just marry this woman and get her preggers!<br />
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<strong>Friday</strong>:<br />
Usually a night of bad decisions because work provides me with Beer Fridays from 5-6. So I generally find somebody to meet up with to continue the fun for the rest of the evening.<br />
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<strong>Saturday</strong>:<br />
I am usually out and about... children, puppies... you know....<br />
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<strong>Sunday</strong>: (aka The Bermuda Triangle of TV shows.)<br />
<em>Boardwalk Empire</em> 9pm-10pm HBO<img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="168" data-width="299" height="168" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSeJ8FTKs_UBPs_zqkhdtA6kMq3zB13GG-m0tlmqUjWkjj_iB1o" style="height: 168px; width: 299px;" width="299" /><br />
Fantastic show about prohibition in Atlantic City. I LOVE Mrs. Shroeder played by Kelly MacDonald, and you can't help but root for the corrupt Nucky Thompson played by Steve Buscemi. The scenary and costumes are spot on perfect, and the excitement of the show and time just draws you in. I'll never stop watching this as long as it's on.<br />
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<em>Desperate Housewives</em> 9pm-10pmABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="168" data-width="300" height="168" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSI3xVQqczrYoJmykvJULgRs2DuzyhRwX5rzrOlqvUMPtQ8RDaP" style="height: 168px; width: 300px;" width="300" /><br />
Again. Loyalty. This is its last season and they are all doing what they do best. My favorite girl changes from season to season. Typically I like Gabby and Lynette best. But they're all so cute and lovable in their own way. The major conflict this season is that they all helped to cover up the fact that Carlos killed Gabby's abusive step father when he attacked her in their home. Now they are living with the guilt and doing their best not to let anyone know... OOOO... Suspenseful!<br />
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<em>Dexter </em>9pm-10pm SHO <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="244" data-width="168" height="244" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSQkVm_bChq4WcbsMoIMwlhbYIrSQWHmg6fzft6GLsWeHD4y0cf" style="height: 244px; width: 168px;" width="168" /><br />
Incredibly dark show, and not for the faint of heart. Dexter and his "dark passenger" live a double life of solving and committing crimes. You can't help but love him and all of his awkwardness. You don't have to watch the first 5 seasons to understand what's happening now, but I suggest that you do anyway. The Trinity Killer in season 4 is my absolute favorite. But they are all good.<br />
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<em>Hung</em> 10pm-10:30pm HBO <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="225" data-width="225" height="225" id="rg_hi" src="data:image/jpg;base64,/9j/4AAQSkZJRgABAQAAAQABAAD/2wCEAAkGBhQREBQUExQVFRQUFxgUGBcUFxUUFBQUFBQVFBQUFhcXHSYeFxkjGRcXHy8gIycpLCwsFR4xNTAqNSYrLCkBCQoKDgwOGg8PGiwcHBwsKSwpLCkpKSkpKSwpLCkpKSkpKSwpLCkpKSksLCwpLCksLCkpKSkpLCkpLCwpKSkpKf/AABEIAOEA4QMBIgACEQEDEQH/xAAcAAABBQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAADAAIEBQYBBwj/xABLEAABAwIDBAYGBQoDBgcAAAABAAIRAyEEEjEFQVFhBiJxgZGhEzKxwdHwQlJicpIHFBUWIzRTsuHxJIKiM0Nzk8LSFzZUY6Ozw//EABoBAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMFBAb/xAAjEQACAgEEAwEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAQIRAxIhMVEEE0EiMmFx/9oADAMBAAIRAxEAPwCslPZpZDBuiNaV3Djj2lOlJoSypgJyaurmugJ7BPsSbS5BK2IhcRhgnzEW4i8cUKrTLHQf7jcVnHNCTpM0eOSVtCgojQuMbKK1l1qZjgE6F0U10NSAaQuIgamvagBqRKdFk1olACldTvRpFiVgDlMKKWppYkMGU0lFypsXQAzcmQjEJNakMEG3TmlPLEo4JFIZKcnNHBdAQMDC4j+hHE+aSAIbRfuTgL6wkxvsUjKFpZkMa3mnli7adyVepAlDdDSsCGFxgd5OgHElQ8Z0nZQhtNuYi5qRY9nJV2O209zvR0hI+kSLF2hJv1gLgaDeoNTY9YmZJG8aSuNn8jW6+HVwePpV/S6wfSMuOsE79x7verTD9IjUIY+m0nQ2mwtmkLKYXYlSoYDTbeLFaLZnRGo4S4wYiOfGF50/qPTo7JTqeUxuNxvMfFFYwcCoeEquY51Go3rNJg7tAWu7CFa0a0iwXX8fNrj/AIcnPi0SFSaI0T/RiE+kTNgfKEX83JO5eizBIhga+zelVZae9HfR7OfBJjLwRE3j4ckWFEWv7Vyg3zT3iY4CyJQo6QO9OxDhSTHM8lPNGyjGnJt8jepsqiMWJeiUoUOScylPBFior2U7nmmNZf4KdXpxfj7RcITWWbzTCgbaY+PanGmjU27zab93JP8AQTr4JARDS5JeiUw0OS5+bqSkiIKPD57URvAiPZ3KSKSRpTqiyiL6Ec0lK9H9k+KSVgUtMyfnvR20DxHeowRGrYxDtby9igbdrltM6ibeRPuU1h5qn6VYiKQnjx5FebyG1jZvgrWiDsLDjKTvJv3aLU4KkDCyHRzEk5ifVBWsoY1jYOYCeM+1cKSO/jexfYKg1ukXU+iYKraeLaRINhvTqO2KRMB4kbrq4yoqaKjpzRAqU6gtmBpu7xIPiiYam0WzGfEBQ/yg14ZTIu03BHLVF2c7M0EjUA+QXt8V/pnM8pbItaFAmes355b0V9FwMWOlog8+xR6UC4ke1TqOL1zXBEcD2r3tngSAOZAEtIEx7VIxFDq5hEtuOBG8KTS6xbEkTNxwBRMbgwAQ3fq2QNd7Z0KnUVpM6KUgnn7SpDaHVEkDlbjvvZKkIsR9IXmIjXRSsMDYkgC86EnxVtkpBqDARYHKIExZR6VK5PGN1uPvVlhqjCT1gBzdJ8EGg9mUybzuDjYQAbLPUVRHFG+l/JNqYcjrEQNDG4cVZZmbgfwwouNOawlvYde1NSCiuxlIhvKQg1KMWbMGCJ5gqVhMKXVGtJMTpwhHxmFDKrRfLY8dCbBVqJoiMpZoA+jczx3I7cOpdLDGcxtuvpwE93mj02biI96lyKUSD6BNNFWL6cKPUHkUtQ6INXqiU4MCHjm2AHHmU+gOqP7KvhP0fl5pInpElNlUZNqI0ITSjU16rPOGY22irOkez/S0iBqCD33HvVmwrtehLVhmVwaN8LSmmzMdGcJLCNOtHhCvGbCaJcZdzJcffCrMM30dRwG90+IGqu6uM/ZwNSPavn3zud+CVEjY1AGm9sWLp5diJQ6PhriSXCd4c6PCY8lC2JtB7MwLBJktE2Kv2ViRfh/cKlVFMp+lGFDm0Gesc7rcRAJ7FIwOFDLXgW104fPJSqlEZg8/QYQO1x+AhNwjervnhxXu8VfTneU1siUx15m3cjsd87kKlSO+yMaS9bZ4Uh/5+4BoEdSYtx4qNUJcZcZPNSaeFB1cB2qfhsIxoMuDp7CLdqVpFUyj9EToCewJDZjybNPabLRltuqLdwCY6qGi5A7x7f6I1hoKqnsjKOs491vb8FJZhGt3c76nxTxjmbi0czPlxXPzpkGDPEmxNrQlbHSAYqqG238lXV8zjOkKRlkklINVoihYavlcHETHnaEfE7QDnsdl9WbcVHLVzIj7Ybkv9M/Zsd0oTtqfZ81HdTTHMRsG4d+1XcAgP2k47ghOahuCtJE2xtaqXGfYuYfEk9yZVUei7K7tVUSWH5yUlEk8UkqQWVTAigodPUIjrLUyDU6vJEfjABcaKBiMc2m3MdFiNqdIalZzmk5WaZRv334rHJNRN8eNyNJiMS01JGjtCDY2UkvL2jK6D2Dv1VNgaWegyNwA7CLfFPoY4sdD7c9y4WR3Js7eP8pGnwQdxdPHK2ys6T3NPWcDPKCFUYbb7BFxEX4qZh8YKjurpvPwSNZStEpzQ50zoAPf70T0jgYBQsMZk8SjRddnGtMUjh5JXJsNTrPjVPGJeOBQy7clmVEoeMY87ghvc7WfCyeAkXeCAHN2pUG8HtAKaWuqGSSmwCborasaf1QAJ1E8fmVw1HNMTojucmZuXaiwAmq7ikarhvTzUbOn90nsnTinYDBiHck8Yl/JcDbR86BOphADX4t06BNOMPAJ+W6G8XRsIY7FnghjEE7k+E0hWiRjinYSmHPAIB5GbnhyTHG4+d65SfDgUxB8nL2pIXpvn5KSmhFM6qG3Kq9obeDbNueeg7lU19skybKDUMqZZL4No4kh+LxbnmXOJ9ngq6uy8qZCDVZIK88tz0IuuiWLBcaZOvWb/wBQ9/itJX2SHaj4rzzCYk03hzTDmmR8+XevVtkYxtekx7dHC/Jw1Hd7xxXPzQp2joYJqS0sq8PsOmDdWO08Y3CYV9SJygADSXOOUDznuVkMOA7isp+UdxdQaxugfnPPKD8Vlj/kaZFS2NBszHsexrmmxhWTSCvLNg7adSdE9UgHv09y2WE26I48t/8AVdqO6OK4mgLFz0ZVdQ6SUSQDUa0kgQ45TrpBVs6R2aSYv4p2TQL0R5pZDuUmk/jGm5c9OBcAHt08EWFAHU3COYSax3zZTHVdDy3W8OCaWosKAVBYX3bu1Jmh7uZRvRyuZEBQIMHFPygfPwXXUw0T4/BEY7lCAIr2jcV0CFJfHDxTTTB3keaLCgKY4oz6H2p9yE/CuOkeKYmgRQyE92Gde1/cgObCpEsY9CLiiOBXW4fitEQweVJGldTA8lemiu+NQe0D2i66NSuMGo+brnPc6A04pw1aI5GPaisqB2n9k1lwm+qZ3b/ihWIFiWwZG9Tej/Sipg6oJ61MnrM3H7Q+0ECq2R5qG9khTONouMqdo92pvY+kHsMhzczSN4IkLHdMsU2nSvBcZgHQyL90KD+T/pQG0nYeqfUBcwn6n0m9xv3lZzpJtI4msXfRJytH2Qde/XwWEMf6PVPL+bK+ji5cANwjw3+fkreli3RLTcax5FVNZlrbr/PcpGDrfPIr2LZ0eB77mm6Oup18Q0VBJb1hpDi3cezVekMpyvJcLXLHsqN1bY893sK9M2fiA9gcNHCfFeiEdRhklpLFtKEvRDglhMNne1kxO/ulTGbIa5zWh93ND/VOhm2uqbils2Qp38ACnOgTxR4otHYxc2Q4akR917WTrpee5Fb0eP1x60C2olvW1+0FH57K1Poi1HADh2KvzBsjdqrE7JGZ4LxLGtd6uuaBBvYgkSifq9+0LMzfVzSRGjssd5uDwTqPYtT6K+kA/wBZwZHHUzO5Mpvv2+Ouqtz0aM+u31omN2WQ7smyDidh5ACDJLsghsb4BmdN6a09hb6IbzHPsuuNbOm/hPwVhW2CWtec7SGyR9oBodI8YRKfR0267bx2ickWn7Xkl+ewt9FU+R3fJXHOHFWp6Pm3XFyB6ptIB617a6cUwbAkA5okuHWaW5coJ617aI/PYW+ipD72JSdJ59sKyrbGDSBnEmoKfq2BIBmZ0grtPYP1iGnrWcPosLZd4Ge5P89k2+imzxuHsQatWVo29G5E52btRe+T/u8lXYzAim8t10NwAbibi8K40+GKVrkp0lY+iHAeCS00EajxMG45k+9dYev3Ic9Ycl2esFzDphHOiO1FN0Cun0XSFS5ExlB8OLD2t94QnCCu41sEOG5Pfe/G6P6AjEljg4GI4cDY+SPTvfgutY0luYw06nkntygkNMgEgE2JjeiK3FLg47RR8O+DHBSHFQqgh08U59iiXWExMGDcH5kLe9D8TNLLM5SfAkkLzOhVu0rb9B8R13t5A+cH2rfDLcxzR/J6RsXDCrXYx3quJmDGjSdVp8Z0ZoMpvcGmWtJHWO4SFnOjR/xNLtP8pW/rUw5pB0IIPYdVHkzcZ7MWCCcGeXhbLZ/Rqg6kxxaZLWk9Y6kBH/VrDcP9Z+KtaFINYGt0AAG+wFlGbPqrTsViw03q3KDC9HKLqtVpBhjmgdY2BYCfaq7pNsinQDMgIzEzJJ0A4rS4A/tsR95n/wBbVT9N/VpdrvYEsU5PIk2GSMVBuim6P4FtatlfJGUmxjSI0V7tPo5Rp0nOaDIj6ROrgPeqroj+8/5He5anbn+wf/l/narzykslJk4Yp49yL+qdD6rvxFUPSLYXoCHMnIbGb5T28CttKiUqrMTSO9rgQRvB3jtCyx5pRdvc1nji1SM90c2HSrUi54JOYixIsAFG25sUMrU6dIGXiYJJvJvfQQtJsHZxoMew6ZyQeLSBB+eCT6YOMB3iiY733T9r1trgn1rSk+SFguiFJoBqS93aWt7gEf8ARGEnLlpzwzX9so3SKuWYaoW2MASNRLgD5LEbLwPpqrWZspMnNExAJ9ycIyyJybqhScYNRSNVjOiFJw6hLHbrlze8FY/FYd1N7mOEFpg/FbhuzcR/6n/42/FZTpDSc2uQ92d0N60BuotYLbx5vVV2Z547WlRWpJJL3Hms8MoGXEp/00zCC08U5nrFcc6o6qdEqDoMLj3SUMGHJ/QJOIbLVHper2W+ClnRRaY9bt+Cp8iE73LrB89yZvRCN3emI6VFxYkdl1ID0GtohvYEDp1Ldl+5bToPV/xHaw+1pWHp+4eBWl6FYqMTTnfmZ3ltvMIxSqSFlVxZ7b0Z/eaXaf5XLc7SP7Gp9x38pXllbHGlTzt1BEXI1MHTlKDW6S1cz2y6G5tXO6zRwvvHavVlwOctVnkx5dEWifK9H2T+70vuN/lC8idtd2RphozNJgz9Ytt2RJT6XSitoCQBP0nRYOIAuNwb4qs2H2JJbE4smh7npmEx7W4utTcQC7I4TvIYAR7FJ2vsluIaGuJBBkEbpXln6Xe5pe6LFlySZzEib62CezpjiGCzzESOsSLza5WL8ZqnF7mizqqaPSNkdHW4dxdmLnRAmBAOqb0lx7W0wyes9zRG8AOBJ8liGdJ8Q8OmqTDwzqncS0TbtVbjdrVG1D1ZAIGYkzJbmN556oXjyctU3Ye6KWmKPYpWE2Jtc0Kpn1HHrcr2csseldYSMx0B9d28MP1uJcNdyH+mHyRDbAkEkgHqk8ePzvV4/H0pp72Kea2mvh7Qx4IkXB4cFn9sbSFDF03H1SwtdyBdr3FYCp0jqsgB1srSIc8es2dJt2LlTbbnUvSOu+coa4kmZ0v3nuUQ8Wnu9ipeRa2R609rK1MiQ5jhFjYgqiZ0PyvzMrPb2AZo+8CsBguklVrw1hLJOoJiL84n4qfQ6W4hz8pqmLwQeBIHsSXjzjtFg80ZfyR6fTc1ga0uvoMx6zoHPUrE9LB/iXdjfYspU6RVnOzes4DNJc6QMpJvNv6qbg9ourMzOJuTqSbA215LTFgcJarIyZtaqgsLq4kvUec8Ow46vYlT9YplB1kVmq5KOsN1ch1NUSnqShvSYEum6W9yDS39vuCfhh1U2n7z7loiQe9PdqExwunVNAgYwoNVyK8p+Gwuck7h7VnJ0rGlZFqUCwtne0e0/BTNjV/R12Okw17SeQm58EfbNGze8fyke9VdO5PZdZxexUl8PqHA9EWPaD6R34WqQ7oTT/iH8LVC/Jltv85wFF5PWDQx33mDKfZPethVatXmydmPqh0Zl/Qyn/EP4Wrh6HM+ufwtV+5cT9+TsPTDoo/1LZH+0P4W7tFXHo4ADe+4ZRBWxq4ltOmXPIDQJJKzdLpTQrvPonh2U3SebJ2NYYdFbszYYe8sqEsO6AIPirj9SmfxHfhapFehnyubqCrukDlHYks+R/RvDDozf6ks+ufwtTR0KZ9c/hatQWpno0/fk7F6YdGYrdDmATnNvst3aKkqbPaIg6mNAvQKzOqexYnF0IA45veqWafZEsUF8Io2c2SJ0E6BRvzcQCN5jQKbWMOP3VFoAlre1V7p9keuPQNtERcxeNB2e5SHYEAwHW7ECtT4cUa+cI9s+xeuPQ7805+QSUiEke2fY/XHo+cmOhSWPmTyQQI1Ty2FkekfS0Qnp+eAnMYmAeiICCLHx9yKHWUdxuqTEOrBcBkJ5EhDpapsQzNbsVlsSoHNIPGVWuF1M2VYlY5eDSHJL2w3qz9oeYIVJEPBVxjHkscOEH/UB71T1N3cohwOXJ7L+QnaP7KrSP0X5h2OF/cvZdy+dPyMbRybQdTP+8YfFt/cvoqmZarkSgRam5U8pqkDO/lCwz3YF+UwBc8wvCsLjn0agewkOHnyPJfQHTKk5+DexnrP6oXi+N6E4mnVaw0yQ4+s241VpqtyXZ6z0Nx76+FZVeMs6c43rX0XSAqbY2z8tGnTAhrGgeAV2xsBZ/Sx0LmVdJXJQAyqOqexY/aQsPve9bGqbHsWM2hUtP2lSJkQMZdzvuoGHp2YpVZwLnfdQ8PTPUlWYgcVSIcI3otRsPZ87kWv62uiZWeCWuBBLd3PtUt0VGLfATMkgelf9UeJSS1ov1SPnhjpci+5DwzbTv3/AATgDu3q0MdTbJncikroEBNTAJoFFY7rHwUqpooNP1j2n2pgSmlMdYpy49shUScepWzqRdJG4+5RSLKfsR13N7D4yFlkWxUeRYoESDwPskeYVVWZK0W0qUi2qz4uFnj4LnyW/Q3aHocfhqht1w0/ddZfVODqdVfHzHkBrhq0+w2X1lsOqTRpl2pY0ntLQT5q2SWRTXLoXCpAi7RbLQOag4l7gREd6sMSq3GvUSKiXdCt1QjemVZg6ksaeKP6RUINWxNkFuKsgV64AMkAc7BUGP6U0mWac3s8UNpCSbNLXxoyG+5ZvG+jywXHWZ3TrprCoa+28Ri3ZKTerviwH3j7lLYynhr1qge/6u4d29Tq6NNC+kqnRJlxsCIB3ns5c1EqY5tOGtDifLx+CDX2wanIKLVxrWi50RbYKCRIfiC43A8hb3LtLFsaYt7VTYenUrv6jwxswXGT4DUqxr7BawNl73yb3DR5X801Fsbmok79KU+ISVZ+h6X1f9Tvikq0Mj3I8MpOifm6lUmQorGwQpgWpB1yaU6FxACe7TxUQBGqvv2ApguECDMKSbTKcqAUruEr5atuB9oXHKLSxZZUDx9Ei3ETf57EpboFszTvY6RmG8TylZ6m2AtaCH1KZHqvy+0fFZV7YJ8PCyxxmkgBsHePkV9abFcDSaeLQfEL5Ldo8cp8l9VdGKv+GpHjTZ5sarZA7CdJadSs6mJGWIcZhx0I5X8Vam6ztTZAoglpkFxPibDsGik0dpkCJRpFZK2lUy5RxPkFRbUxgAjerepimvIzCeF0OsykDPo2E6yRPtUOJSkWODoRSYJ3BQttbSbh6TnEiQDE2BMWHebKDU2tDyJjMJtxb/T2LOdJtqMfTLXXDhvPA6xyIV6SdQat0iqFrg54JBi0BrnAgPDLXa0kNB3nMd0KC6rmB6rDA3gGIWGw1etlcwXYTaxLgMznajm7yCuNk7HxdQwxlZ07y0tHe5wACy0m9l1j+lORjW02+iOhAIJ3C0cfeqbbRxFGkK9WjUFMn1yOOk7wDzhb/oz0CbRcKteH1NQ3VrTxJPrO8lqsXRbUY5j2hzXAhwOhBsQU1ElyPBHbTrOYHM9U+XarHZFIO6zzmPP4J+19inZ+KNI3o1Oswne2dPvDQruIa2mM49SJPJFDsrum+3XYc0WUXZapOeWgF0CzWkbw53HcEXYH5Q2VA2nX6j9c0jKTpEatNj5cV59tfarsRVqPJs6IGphlmjlaSjbG2PXxVU06FN7iYMMiADHWc4+qIg33rZKkYS3Z7D+fs/iM/EF1YL/wf2l/7X/N/okgmjIVKBiRrfzQ6Vc71OKiVqcHkfIokvpaCiqugqKWFFa+ErY9hlZ+s7zCYKZ3HxXK0GAd5J93z2J9O1imIa2sQbi3JHa8HRNyrohNbBydqDz9iDWp9UopTaomB3qieCz2LtD9m0FwzMNhvLeSBtJgFZ+UyCcw/wAwze9VlJkW4JzKkGDcfMQsNNM1u0Orb+z+i+k9hYwto0hwYweDQF844egX1WM1zua3xcAvo7CYAgCCqJLV2IDmwdD3KpxmBeLsOYcDY/1Ug4ZwQ8TTfCExNWVz9omkC5023fPaoOL6U5zDD1iYDTId5qVjcI57Mp015qvw2ym05c7rPGjjuB3DhZPUJRL3B7EY4B1Z7nHWGHKAe3U+StaGFwzfVpU51u0E+cqnouOUWKJmPNKx0aOnjABaB2W9iedoLP06xARTUbTpOrVSYEwApbSKSLk7QCR2gF51i+m0m1h8woNXpM9ws4qbZeg2fS3D08Thy1xAc3rMd9V3wOh/ovF+kO0nNpmkSWunKd5BH9lttm7TzO67vFYD8oO121cY9jAMtNoaTAkuF3dsTHciNt7hJUiu6K9HqmPxTaFPqknM52uRgtUc46i27eXALZ9KOl1PZzPzDZsMynLVqiDUe+L33md+7QCyJ+Tr/BbGx+O/3h/ZMPCA0CDze8H/ACrzDOSTJJLtYuXO1BPG62MqLb9YcR/Erf8ANeuqnzH6p8SupiotWplfQ9ySSYyPS0KRSSUgAxu7sHtKIzd2LqSXYwg0XGJJJjHN1TPpu7AkkqRmxh1Qamo70klMiolv0e/fcP8A8Wn/ADL6OweiSSljDFCrpJKUNkCrqqvHa+C4kqZKLvC+qO72IrkklBZxQOlH7p3e9JJKXBUOTyzE6otFJJNFD9/zxWA2h+8Vvvu/6kklS5Jnwei4D/yjW/4//wCtNeX09D3e9JJWZHUkkkwP/9k=" style="height: 225px; width: 225px;" width="225" /><br />
This is about a highschool gym coach going through a divorce with two high school aged kids. He just isn't making the money he needs to repair his home that was damaged in a fire, or to take care of his now broken family. So when someone discovers that he has a certain... gift... oh, I'll just stop beating around the bush. He prostitutes himself out to get the money. He has two women fighting for the right to be his pimp. And of course, things get complicated. So we'll see how this season goes...<br />
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<em>How To Make It In America</em> 10:30pm-11:30pm HBO <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="164" data-width="307" height="164" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSz-i1tpC6BpkoAY2uQj1yEdFsF2flxKOfHtjF49Et19iGUV0EW" style="height: 164px; width: 307px;" width="307" /><br />
This is not a show that I even really knew much about until Monday night at Ana and Josh's house. They were watching it on demand and I sort of love it! It's about young 20- or 30-somethings in NYC just trying to make it big. Maybe I love it because I can relate 100%, and it actually speaks pretty true to what it's like trying to start from scratch in NYC...<br />
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<em>PanAm</em> 10pm-11pmABC <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="253" data-width="199" height="253" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQrd5C71Io-wwHg3dpUA8NnJmmgUGLlUj09e-1zpXRTlNHtBrhM" style="height: 253px; width: 199px;" width="199" /><br />
I LOVE this show! I think I really like period shows, and this one is set in the 1960s. It's all about the PanAm stewardesses and their lives of travel and intrigue and excitement. I love the looks, and Christina Ricci made the transition to TV from the big screen. I love her in this role. It's really fun, and definitely worth a look.<br />
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<em>Homeland</em> 10pm-11pm SHO <img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="216" data-width="148" height="216" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTkutOoTHVbQQVcDD63XZk3FvfdOA4V_oFj9rQqyQHxQ5Tu9O3Z" style="height: 216px; width: 148px;" width="148" /><br />
Still giving this one a try. Its first episode was last week. Claire Danes is the main character. If you've seen the previews, they basically give away the whole first episode. But pretty good nevertheless. An American Prisoner of War is found years after he is believed to be dead. He comes home to a family that barely knows him, and tries to make it work. Claire Danes' character suspects that this is the man she was informed about being turned, and illegally puts him under surveylance. I'll give this a few more weeks to see but I liked it so far...<br />
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Football 1pm-midnight... but not every week.<br />
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So basically this all depends on when the Eagles are playing and what my plans are with other people. But typically at least 4 hours of my Sunday are taken up with football games. (This is actually down from last year where it was literally 11 hours straight without stops.)<br />
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So there you have it. My literally impossible fall TV schedule. At this point I am relying almost entirely on my DVR and On Demand. I catch some, but not all. Having this lineup will be helpful, but can we just look at Sunday?? I have three shows starting at 9 on three separate networks. Then I have Three shows at 10pm. I CAN'T BE IN THREE PLACES AT ONCE! Wednesday has 3 hours of TV watching and 5 shows, with one being recorded!<br />
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And of course all of these will overlap when Shameless, Nurse Jackie, United States of Tara and whatever else the networks decide to throw at me for these weird partial seasons while the real shows take their hiatuses until the spring. What are they bears? They hibernate through the winter? THAT'S WHEN I NEED YOU MOST! <br />
<br />
Thank God I have no interest in dating... I don't have time!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>**Oh right. All those pretty pictures were found on Google Images, except for Last Man Standing which I found on abc.com. Hey look! I have small print!</em></span>Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-60613401690240485442011-09-16T15:40:00.000-04:002011-09-16T15:40:50.584-04:001 Million, 203 Thousand, 840 minutes...So I said I'd be back today and I am! Look at that...<br />
<br />
I've had quite a journey since graduating college in 2006. I was fortunate to go to college in West Chester, Pennsylvania which I still LOVE LOVE LOVE and consider to be one of my three homes. I got to experience Philadelphia and all of its surrounding areas before leaving. It's a really wonderful area to live in , and hope to call it home again in the future. <br />
<br />
But when I graduated college, I had a really tough time finding a job. Like.... super tough. As in I took a job at a mental health facility and worked from 7:30am until 3:30pm for $27,500 a year. So terrible... I was a Criminal Justice major. This was so not up my alley. After I paid my modest bills each month, I was left with $11 do go NUTS with!<br />
<br />
So after 8 months of THAT particular brand of hell, I decided to up and move to DC. I got an amazing job with a law firm paying $40,000 a year (I felt like I was the richest person on the planet), and working normal 9-5 hours!! I was SO SO HAPPY!!<br />
<br />
People... I got there, I furnished my all new, all to myself, apartment and paid cash for everything! Of course I was apparently living in the GHETTO at the time, but I was blissfully unaware until I was asked out by a convicted murderer on house arrest, who wanted to cook for me (for obvious reasons... going out was not so much an option... so maybe he asked me in?) if I was willing to get the groceries for him. But that's another story, for another time. <br />
<br />
After 4 months at THAT job, I was laid off... They say I was fired. I beg to differ since within a month of my being "fired" my entire team was dissolved and my position was never filled, and they could offer me no reason for my being let go. Anywho... that sucked a LOT. I temped for a while, which wasn't so bad. I got in with a good company that found me lots of good paying work. Then I landed a job at yet another law firm that was actually for real a good job!<br />
<br />
I moved to Alexandria, VA. I had a savings. I had excellent credit! I had a car that was paid off, I had a completely filled walk-in closet, bought a new computer, and even bought new Pottery Barn sheets... that weren't even on sale! I put them on my credit card, of course, to help build my credit and so I didn't shell out ALL $800 at once. Because that's reasonable for sheets, no?<br />
<br />
Do you have a Macy's Visa card?<br />
<br />
Because if you do, you should probably read the fine print.<br />
<br />
You will be getting two... count 'em TWO... statements in the mail each month. One is the charges made at Macy's. The other will be purchases you make outside of Macy's on the card. Oh you didn't realize this and thought you were carrying a zero balance?<br />
<br />
OH WELL YOU WERE WRONG!<br />
<br />
Next thing I know, my $800 sheets have cost me $1500 due to non-payment because of LACK OF KNOWLEDGE OF A BALANCE DUE and a 29% interest rate. And RIGHT as I started paying this down? <br />
<br />
I decided to move to the most expensive city in the world.<br />
<br />
OK, that's an exaggeration. But it is damn expensive! <br />
<br />
I also decided to move with out a job.<br />
<br />
Also, also? I opened another credit card to lower the interest being collected on most of what was on the Macy's card, and closed my Macy's account. Indefinitely.<br />
<br />
It may shock you to hear that;I was unable to make some of these payments once I moved to New York City with no job, but believe me when I tell you some months it wasn't possible. Between late fees, interest, and having to charge more to the card due to lack of funds, I had maxed out the credit card I had open to relieve some of the interest induced stress. So so terrible.<br />
<br />
I have now been in New York City for Two years and three and a half months. I have worked part time for the Public Schools of New York City (Oh my God I will never have children in this city ever.), and for the worst restaurant on the face of the planet. And now, I have almost been at my fantastic Investment Bank job a year. Next month I will make the final payment on my Macy's Visa credit card... those damn sheets aren't even worth it. I just got rid of the duvet cover because it's falling apart, and the sheets are nearly thread bare in spots. So basically that means the sheets were done before they were paid off, like some sort of lemon that you are still making car payments on. Ugh. Stupid Pottery Barn. <br />
<br />
I will be making my final payment to pay off the secondary, back-up, then maxed out credit card in April.<br />
<br />
I am currently building a savings account.<br />
<br />
I live in a beautiful 2 bedroom apartment on the Upper East Side.<br />
<br />
I have a really good, steady job.<br />
<br />
And I am enjoying every part of New York living.<br />
<br />
By next April, I will be able to literally do whatever I want. <br />
<br />
I achieved it!<br />
<br />
People, this is my dream! My dream realized, even!<br />
<br />
I can't get over how happy I am, and how lucky I feel! I can't believe I have been able to do this! It really does make it clear that, although it may take longer than I'd like, and I may appear to be on a different path at times, I really can achieve whatever my next dream may be! I just have to keep my eye on it, even if it's far off in the distance.<br />
<br />
Which is good because my next goal is getting my Events company up and running successfully. From there it's all marriage and babies. Which... HA... let's not.<br />
<br />
When I was moving into my current apartment with Flo, but before I had met Flo, I was talking to a girl in Ohio. She was interested in moving to NYC, and had just graduated from college. I think I may have scared her, and for that I am sorry. But I was just being fo real, dude!<br />
<br />
Moving in New York, as you may have gathered from previous posts, is a huge, GIANT pain in the ass! It's totally horrible. When I said that she would need to expect to have AT LEAST $6000 in the bank when she decided to move, I was not kidding. And really? That's on the lower end.<br />
<br />
You basically have to be independently wealthy to move to NYC, or be willing to live in really terrible conditions until you get everything together. You will hate your life sometimes (like last night when I was carrying groceries from Trader Joes on 14th street back to my apartment on 88th street in the cold and rain while being cut off by every single person out at that particular time because they are the cheapest and best groceries you can find anywhere in the city). But you will also love your life (like tomorrow I have plans to go with Ana for a famous burger, a walk in the park, and a movie night with her and Miranda while eating Reese's S'mores... be jealous.)<br />
<br />
This city has brought me more that I could have ever imagined. I spent the first year and a half of my time here with a guy that hated this city. He could find no good in it and couldn't wait to leave. I am so glad I didn't leave with him. As summer comes to a close, I can't help but think back on how much fun I have had! I wouldn't trade a minute of my time here with these people in this city for anything! <br />
<br />
So I guess what I'm trying to say is, when all is said and done, it will have taken me about three years to get myself comfortable here. To feel like I'm home. To be confident and solid in my lifestyle. It's the best and worst journey I have ever taken. But I will never ever forget one of these 1 million, 203 thousand, 840 minutes....<br />
<br />
<img class="rg_hi" data-height="248" data-width="203" height="248" id="rg_hi" src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQixnOYIRv0BVhrZL9TqRVcwjnycdPabBbxXXssEM0MaVdDlp65" style="height: 248px; width: 203px;" width="203" /> <img class="rg_hi" data-height="194" data-width="259" height="194" id="rg_hi" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSYA2nSYl0FYEjzIWd1Xr0VLv5vEO1AYwJTXVT6YSQACbl4DpjeAw" style="height: 194px; width: 259px;" width="259" /> <img class="rg_hi" data-height="160" data-width="196" height="160" id="rg_hi" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSUaMjNLYUp91-mGu1geoAirSyJh0lvhrYn4LcQpmPWYjTchsDHlA" style="height: 160px; width: 196px;" width="196" /> <img class="rg_hi" data-height="194" data-width="259" height="194" id="rg_hi" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRQaNOhR4XkUB2yFBqd6xCiyS1Mj8C8lfC7yRlkKZko7a7IY6HpHw" style="height: 194px; width: 259px;" width="259" />Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-54498502612592757542011-09-15T12:42:00.001-04:002011-09-15T12:42:52.391-04:00I did a bit of traveling...OK, before you get your panties all twisted, yes I realized I said I would write earlier this week about my weekend adventures but as I write these at work, my home computer was revolting against sending pictures to my work email. We have had peaceful talks and are currently working through are disagreements constructively. That being said....<br />
<br />
<br />
WOOHOO WEEKEND TRIPS!<br />
<br />
I loved going away the last 2 weekends, but I am very much looking forward to sticking around my beloved city for a while. But here's the recap:<br />
<br />
Since Labor Day Weekend was 2 weeks ago, I decided to head down to DC to visit a few friends and family. I have to say, this turned out to be much more low key than my usual trips. It was so nice! I arrived at 2pm on Saturday. Gia and I grabbed a delicious bite to eat outside of Union Station (she had Fish Tacos, I had a chicken sandwich... yummy!) and headed out to Virginia. I agreed to house/dog sit for my brother that evening. Poor Mr. Magoo is so old, but he's a big ol' love bug! So we hung out and watched movies and had some wine with cupcakes. It was fantasticly relaxing! <br />
<br />
The next day we got up and went here:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiv2X6etmVDvM8RgSGYa4Is4kZlieXRoUw9viegJ54KazkUk9cACkOcIEPYRvqgwVOPQ2CgRncb2b4SLfcQWpwhjAcOZq7GsVah-knb0hRumRqeT8poY466gBIeQVTS8CapY3oSCjT38/s1600/Nationals+Stadium.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiv2X6etmVDvM8RgSGYa4Is4kZlieXRoUw9viegJ54KazkUk9cACkOcIEPYRvqgwVOPQ2CgRncb2b4SLfcQWpwhjAcOZq7GsVah-knb0hRumRqeT8poY466gBIeQVTS8CapY3oSCjT38/s320/Nationals+Stadium.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Nationals Stadium, baby!! Unfortunately, my team (the Yankees... stop hating immediately.) was not playing. However, I got to see the Mets play the Nationals... FROM BOX SEATS!! I never really made it out to the seats because it was an awfully hot day.<br />
<br />
And we had a box.<br />
<br />
Filled with food.<br />
<br />
And air conditioning.<br />
<br />
So...? I'm not sure how else to explain why I didn't make it to the seats...<br />
<br />
But I did watch the game! <br />
<br />
Anyway, They had grilled hot dogs with all the fixins including chili, cheese, onions and relish, along with the usual suspects. There were delicious wings, a fridge full of beer and sodas and chips with the most amazing dips you have ever tried! <br />
<br />
Then this came along.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPirLIaCqs4buVlvA0w-a8m49bEOd29PdwbICNH6tbMTU04fdxrFKJCxnLbvLlkh-dUoCYSsyQ4vVip6IzPx8tMuMQSKCBJGyn5jl_CGUfmQ8RkbZ_ZNbYcHK8Ibv8qCt2UW_Wl7S4CNU/s1600/Smore+Cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPirLIaCqs4buVlvA0w-a8m49bEOd29PdwbICNH6tbMTU04fdxrFKJCxnLbvLlkh-dUoCYSsyQ4vVip6IzPx8tMuMQSKCBJGyn5jl_CGUfmQ8RkbZ_ZNbYcHK8Ibv8qCt2UW_Wl7S4CNU/s320/Smore+Cake.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
That, my friends, is what we call a S'mores cake. It is about 27 layers of chocolate, mouse, chocolate ganache, marshmallow fluff, graham crackers... basically heaven. And this picture doesn't do it justice. That piece of cake was the size of my head. <br />
<br />
I did get to visit with a few of my old co-workers (we got the tickets through my old office where Gia currently works.) which was just fantastic! <br />
<br />
After the last pitch:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAv8ct_rlJHa2o_qkrzMU9EreTgDanhXd8pz6sNZVAI5pXpPJeVZQ0UJgLQq4bVOuG3QnVy2uCMRRZW68vL2pA5qIegiH_1FGhuhN6fmZlzLbKCjm-GnH_8gmn0pspomsTSP0KA96z5s/s1600/Mets+v.+Nationals.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAv8ct_rlJHa2o_qkrzMU9EreTgDanhXd8pz6sNZVAI5pXpPJeVZQ0UJgLQq4bVOuG3QnVy2uCMRRZW68vL2pA5qIegiH_1FGhuhN6fmZlzLbKCjm-GnH_8gmn0pspomsTSP0KA96z5s/s320/Mets+v.+Nationals.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
...we hung out for a bit longer before heading back to Virginia to have dinner with my brother Mike, sister-in-law, Jody, and nephew, Quinn!<br />
<br />
<br />
Jody made a delish dinner! Then we all just hung out and enjoyed each other's company until we realized if we didn't leave, we'd miss the last train back into DC. <br />
<br />
Holy. Crazies. <br />
<br />
What the crap DC?! I remember the crazies, but these were a rare breed! One guy had a big-gulp cup on the metro. I couldn't figure out what he had in it until he refilled the cup, TO THE TOP, with vodka and Kahlua. I don't know what drink he was going for exactly, but he was going to town on it! Then he decided he just needed to get one last work-out in before the night was over, and started pumping his arms. Then pushing against the seat in front of him as hard as he could. Then pumping his arms again. Then flexing and checking out his reflection in the windows of the metro. I'm not sure what he was seeing, but I was seeing a guy with pigtails, a trucker hat, and an old Orlando Magic jersey. My. God.<br />
<br />
Then there was the guy with the tiny Koala bear attached to his shirt. There's not much more to say about that.<br />
<br />
Monday we had pho which is just the best thing in the world... if it's done right. And in DC, it's done right! We went to Pho14 and had amazing spring rolls, and two huge bowls of Pho. YUM! Then I headed home.<br />
<br />
*boring week at work*<br />
<br />
PHILLY HERE I COME!<br />
<br />
Natalie and I met at the Bolt Bus "depot" also known as the corner by the Tick Tock diner. Anyway, Natalie needed a weekend away, and we had an extra ticket for Beerfest at the Ballpark! So it worked out perfectly! Of course, for the first time in history, I have like 14 back-up plans for when the bus runs late because the bus ALWAYS runs late! And for the first time in history the bus leaves right on time and arrives right on time and we make the 1st train to Manayunk and we meet Katie at the train station and it went as smoothly as could be! So so nice.<br />
<br />
We headed out to Main Street in Manayunk for the evening. Here's the thing. The last time I went to visit my people in the Philly area I got just a LITTLE over excited that a round of drinks cost as much as 1 martini here in Manhattan. I *MAY* have over-done it a bit. So I was determined to take it easier this time. And then we went to Bourbon and they were have $1 drinks. Really?? Manayunk has a vendetta against me, I swear!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_8dJiz5FlZjhSaBLSaBIbNZA2hWhAWd0NSk-4hJocl7YfUSFiThaBD0d6TY7aSIF6hVxTgyV5vCGh-VGYTFK_cCs40wN5egBEj0JEEDVM1naaTz0ukL0zbmNVudFD29yClmy4u4SRp8/s1600/Beth+and+Katie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_8dJiz5FlZjhSaBLSaBIbNZA2hWhAWd0NSk-4hJocl7YfUSFiThaBD0d6TY7aSIF6hVxTgyV5vCGh-VGYTFK_cCs40wN5egBEj0JEEDVM1naaTz0ukL0zbmNVudFD29yClmy4u4SRp8/s320/Beth+and+Katie.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beth and Katie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDFljbpf6n3Wmxw9Eeu8CqhdPUZv00M-BoerBPU11KDJRLcA3Q_YbzsaLlQfpoorSaLnXSmtet-wcq9oWs0c9ObMfU14BvtpP2q1swZD8lwUdi0N9p-TcdJb5ri1VG0gLCkTb4AxgF80/s1600/Me+and+Nat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDFljbpf6n3Wmxw9Eeu8CqhdPUZv00M-BoerBPU11KDJRLcA3Q_YbzsaLlQfpoorSaLnXSmtet-wcq9oWs0c9ObMfU14BvtpP2q1swZD8lwUdi0N9p-TcdJb5ri1VG0gLCkTb4AxgF80/s320/Me+and+Nat.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Natalie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6qQvAodgDIj-mIQsDXW278T1aErHWmOEmUC3T_X9U3RyqzK-KR29izU56lLKnu_zwwnYNb59g4jEz-fy38UE4pxzss-vFw2mYxnwjBe9P2TMyGosOp61wgSLpAZn-9r4Fw9gm-3byV8/s1600/Photo+Bombed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6qQvAodgDIj-mIQsDXW278T1aErHWmOEmUC3T_X9U3RyqzK-KR29izU56lLKnu_zwwnYNb59g4jEz-fy38UE4pxzss-vFw2mYxnwjBe9P2TMyGosOp61wgSLpAZn-9r4Fw9gm-3byV8/s320/Photo+Bombed.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ooooh, Photobombed!! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFH3ym3J6pL0b7HmrnR2kdZnotv-ilMvSg4JfXIlDD-oRX46Urfb8bU-YWdkVvdd7M-xK3ViJnYkX_TmKC3oStjWL81P53Y0gZMzZXD8D1AlTmRNbErmb9ok1aBMyXH8KrZa-FxT9vRP8/s1600/self+picture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFH3ym3J6pL0b7HmrnR2kdZnotv-ilMvSg4JfXIlDD-oRX46Urfb8bU-YWdkVvdd7M-xK3ViJnYkX_TmKC3oStjWL81P53Y0gZMzZXD8D1AlTmRNbErmb9ok1aBMyXH8KrZa-FxT9vRP8/s320/self+picture.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So I have this fun new camera with the screen on the front so you <br />
can see when you are taking a self portrait. I don't think this function <br />
made this picture any better at all. But whatevs... right?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17J5F0uU0RiC6xN1OeW2oAd3Cy6dpqHrB7dkXXpeL3y1ccLTte_ioGvqhd2cpbvI4DPco4sQhkcRT_L4QYjFBWhMpZvddxRcgCbTnKNWwY0mdqhRB71fevHTNjLyUjIJzg93sthscuis/s1600/taxi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17J5F0uU0RiC6xN1OeW2oAd3Cy6dpqHrB7dkXXpeL3y1ccLTte_ioGvqhd2cpbvI4DPco4sQhkcRT_L4QYjFBWhMpZvddxRcgCbTnKNWwY0mdqhRB71fevHTNjLyUjIJzg93sthscuis/s320/taxi.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was printed on the back of all the headrests in the Cab.<br />
We took pictures of this right before Katie realized she may<br />
have locked us out of the house... Thank GOD people in<br />
Manayunk are trusting and leave their doors unlocked.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So that was night 1. We got up the next day and got ready for...<br />
<br />
BEERFEST AT THE BALLPARK BABY!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCVFU62F3yLqTHjrz_foYQQ6vRGqo_tiM3do00Cz6j-CfMkDw8sjiV5tlHGorTeeK9SZZuozOM96ONxT7TYDhHomN6kd0YXH3dNUYSzScsCVf0toKWlG-YNVDDtLXZh1ARfIFnfUsrW0/s1600/me+and+Sarah.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCVFU62F3yLqTHjrz_foYQQ6vRGqo_tiM3do00Cz6j-CfMkDw8sjiV5tlHGorTeeK9SZZuozOM96ONxT7TYDhHomN6kd0YXH3dNUYSzScsCVf0toKWlG-YNVDDtLXZh1ARfIFnfUsrW0/s320/me+and+Sarah.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah met us at the house, as did Steve and his 2 friends <br />
(not pictured... duh...)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jkLNcMyS_S2s0Enqf3Ya9bz5icrFccdxpoP_DoU2BESt4iWghgpm228GGF3JE2cf08GGobi3JnkpNvWmUQmcdX6dTK4e0m4A9dnZ_qhjQouI3JZMWkJRYADHgoyDxxF4St6tcfk6Ohw/s1600/smoooooches.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jkLNcMyS_S2s0Enqf3Ya9bz5icrFccdxpoP_DoU2BESt4iWghgpm228GGF3JE2cf08GGobi3JnkpNvWmUQmcdX6dTK4e0m4A9dnZ_qhjQouI3JZMWkJRYADHgoyDxxF4St6tcfk6Ohw/s320/smoooooches.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I adore this picture! Steve is to the left, Natalie's face is priceless,<br />
and there's Dan on the right...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHqJDNmsRWHxj_SbjGaGImIfQAEaH7BGrXdK-8Ykw_KpEcvsXYGopcD4TjI_5WlhqFx1DFkkClSSKR_8Shq5aecyGywLflWEGL5aEwsEKaSIR_PbSAMSvYMbxDz5SRgdyxj2XcK2_fgs/s1600/schmidt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHqJDNmsRWHxj_SbjGaGImIfQAEaH7BGrXdK-8Ykw_KpEcvsXYGopcD4TjI_5WlhqFx1DFkkClSSKR_8Shq5aecyGywLflWEGL5aEwsEKaSIR_PbSAMSvYMbxDz5SRgdyxj2XcK2_fgs/s320/schmidt.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCHMIDT HALL FOR LIFE!<br />
Katie and I were roommates at West Chester University, <br />
and across the hall lived these two lovely ladies, Alyssa <br />
and Michelle Ma Bell!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5vPmaBjRviMCB7r4WafWHvGXP186fwuhrNDAPpU40Ye_bFPXRNE8U3u7tj6cEpGH75QPWzf3EjplXQ_C8NThgCp3Cy02E8iHZ3NAs78gtMCkXfGIV6UPYA781X4ifInL1I2L58Dvjyw/s1600/group+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5vPmaBjRviMCB7r4WafWHvGXP186fwuhrNDAPpU40Ye_bFPXRNE8U3u7tj6cEpGH75QPWzf3EjplXQ_C8NThgCp3Cy02E8iHZ3NAs78gtMCkXfGIV6UPYA781X4ifInL1I2L58Dvjyw/s320/group+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is Alyssa and Pete, Katie having a SHOCKING conversation<br />
with that guy, Ray is in the background on the right who is <br />
Michelle's other half. Behind Katie is a guy whose name I can't<br />
remember, but he was obsessed with asking me if he could have <br />
my nuts. which he found hilarious for some reason... I don't have nuts...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtu5no1B_t5bAXQ_V5RCW7A0_BGKm6X8ySGL-HJ6qN6ByKrmOb1qd_TlnSLBfrsUAO6Gwv4wqMrqxa_CrXZJRSyh_sAsPBcvjl9gxU7vHWBL1mp20ZLpE8xOHdnwsUk3nJQ6ajWDbbinE/s1600/group+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtu5no1B_t5bAXQ_V5RCW7A0_BGKm6X8ySGL-HJ6qN6ByKrmOb1qd_TlnSLBfrsUAO6Gwv4wqMrqxa_CrXZJRSyh_sAsPBcvjl9gxU7vHWBL1mp20ZLpE8xOHdnwsUk3nJQ6ajWDbbinE/s320/group+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super sweet group shot! From the left, Steve, Natalie, Dan, Sarah and Katie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXHkqsCoN_HtHJq0UFjfJgkN6ytoUhZxVnpjs7NlJRBYkpNqiaAN8C0OWGH1Y90YBs4VErXKnw3ZG7pVgXysUOXWWo7-4ooJEUcB5CKdcxb-p8ULnD2Zw-lSFtOo5rCOch-s_XyzQoOk/s1600/group+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXHkqsCoN_HtHJq0UFjfJgkN6ytoUhZxVnpjs7NlJRBYkpNqiaAN8C0OWGH1Y90YBs4VErXKnw3ZG7pVgXysUOXWWo7-4ooJEUcB5CKdcxb-p8ULnD2Zw-lSFtOo5rCOch-s_XyzQoOk/s320/group+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group photo of Me, Katie, Sarah, Dan Natalie and.... Tyson... or DJ...<br />
Or Steve's friend that puked at the bar.<br />
<br />
True. Story.<br />
<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So all in all it was a really good day! We tried lots of delish beers, my favorite (and of course the one that got kicked the fastest) was called Fruli. It's a strawberry flavored beer, that really doesn't taste like beer at all. And that's right up my alley! So if you find it anywhere, let me know! Or ship me some... one or the other. Or both!<br />
<br />
That night we went out to The Bayou in Manayunk after I freshened up a bit. We had a great time! Birthday Cake shots, some delectable food, and lots of new friends! DJ totally puked in the bar... AND on one of Sarah's friends. O. M. G. Ew. And he was all "I threw up a little bit. No big deal, I feel fine. Here, hand me that beer." which... really?! Anyway. Good times had by all! We stumbled home early, around 1am to find Sarah had locked a pizza in the oven and was attempting to make popcorn. Katie used her magic and freed the pizza, I was asleep before it was done cooking though. <br />
<br />
The next day we had some breakfast and watched some of the 9/11 tribute. It's strange to me that although 9/11 has definitely impacted me, since moving to New York I really feel it harder. It all hits me harder. And I'm not sure why. But the tears just start flowing immediately when I see anything about it. <br />
<br />
We watched part of the Eagles game before heading back to New York. Again with Bolt Bus running on time and all that craziness. If they could keep that up, it would be wonderful!!<br />
<br />
*yet another boring week at work*<br />
<br />
I'll be back tomorrow (no seriously, I will) to chat about how it literally takes 3 years to establish yourself in NYC, and how I am *almost* there! Woohoo!<br />
<br />
Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-22461645588030231822011-09-08T11:01:00.001-04:002011-09-08T11:01:21.458-04:00Mother Nature is on my shit list.So it's been a pretty rough month up here in the North East part of the country. Now, I would like to preface this with the fact that, here in NYC? Yeah we haven't had crap happen. Nothing was that big of a deal. <br />
<br />
However.<br />
<br />
It appears that Mother Nature has it out for my friends and family. And I don't appreciate that. AT. ALL. <br />
<br />
First it was the earthquake. Here in New York it was a little rumble, my seat bounced a little bit, and we went on our merry way. <br />
<br />
In DC? Major damage to historical buildings and monuments, peoples' homes, and roadways. Lots of power outages... a mess! But everyone that I know is OK.<br />
<br />
Then it was Irene. This bitch. Again, here in NYC, nothin. Other than the city shutting down and it being an inconvenience, it wasn't bad. Apparently there were some trees down in central park. The water around the island rose a bit. But really nothing.<br />
<br />
My mom told me that last week people were STILL without power! Houses were destroyed, power was lost, people were killed. Still though, my people were OK.<br />
<br />
Now Mother Nature has made it personal.<br />
<br />
She is dumping so much water on Central Pennsylvania and the greater Philadelphia area and they can't handle it. My hometown of Hershey PA is almost completely underwater. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2pnFnplrk_Om_NfGIa_-XMk710Y4NSE6pqUgQCYZQcDf57ucO5ADIM27hPh2a2eZcSNsxM-gUV3K-SRTR4_T_PXgYl5RCaSJ-5kOJjQ4vaUxBSEZ1D6CauEjoTJm3fYi1svsMLXqS0WA/s1600/Hershey+Med+Center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2pnFnplrk_Om_NfGIa_-XMk710Y4NSE6pqUgQCYZQcDf57ucO5ADIM27hPh2a2eZcSNsxM-gUV3K-SRTR4_T_PXgYl5RCaSJ-5kOJjQ4vaUxBSEZ1D6CauEjoTJm3fYi1svsMLXqS0WA/s320/Hershey+Med+Center.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in the background you can see Hershey Medical Center,<br />
Where I have friends that work and where my sister was <br />
born.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1D52mQ57Q_HH5cLlYO9yDUFAa8UAY_apVpLcQiXiDO8Pp47mCSrxI35o1t2SIRq299nKbQ-PvFaTNhzbc_RWbRwYs_VlhRZmd8bAjzbjSOj6w5F5En4hUQ6GLOizcns6h7J7F5EYJqg4/s1600/HP+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1D52mQ57Q_HH5cLlYO9yDUFAa8UAY_apVpLcQiXiDO8Pp47mCSrxI35o1t2SIRq299nKbQ-PvFaTNhzbc_RWbRwYs_VlhRZmd8bAjzbjSOj6w5F5En4hUQ6GLOizcns6h7J7F5EYJqg4/s320/HP+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hersheypark not so happy...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJ4aTMKdhuemT0UqXCPEGDbVcifOGHCuj7Wj3efwvu4ol1w4zXcfTSfYKjx2uF8SPrW8KREi1LflVC4_fIql7uBbl32Yl-OyabxY-ES1HwK8c1WP1qNDa2NMM9-tLSAy9Y9pAUjTi_KQ/s1600/HP+Drive+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJ4aTMKdhuemT0UqXCPEGDbVcifOGHCuj7Wj3efwvu4ol1w4zXcfTSfYKjx2uF8SPrW8KREi1LflVC4_fIql7uBbl32Yl-OyabxY-ES1HwK8c1WP1qNDa2NMM9-tLSAy9Y9pAUjTi_KQ/s320/HP+Drive+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hersheypark Drive.. .or.. not so much driving actually...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxgsKgi3qsQUig4BttmifUuL-nwk9kTEoaXiw9hXvA2JiwQGhHpgRv1UEKruMXwW-vDPtklikV__fVjt_vMDg68wBw7nAPZaLHQP3Kkerbue1eUPxwW5HLGhNjCUIaBTNv-sv2yXJojI/s1600/HP+Drive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxgsKgi3qsQUig4BttmifUuL-nwk9kTEoaXiw9hXvA2JiwQGhHpgRv1UEKruMXwW-vDPtklikV__fVjt_vMDg68wBw7nAPZaLHQP3Kkerbue1eUPxwW5HLGhNjCUIaBTNv-sv2yXJojI/s320/HP+Drive.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hersheypark Drive</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBahQ2Y_Tq_7qSO1ptapm_oGa2Jl5SzkPcP0-pJBxq4eBAYyxvwxZi56PNCtCXDbkbTavMakCf6UqTi_u6mvgA_AV_0604KrLqwM7Wwf2co93g8D9js4-z8nRvmXWV-S7ls4vbo-ASqc/s1600/Pizza+Hut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBahQ2Y_Tq_7qSO1ptapm_oGa2Jl5SzkPcP0-pJBxq4eBAYyxvwxZi56PNCtCXDbkbTavMakCf6UqTi_u6mvgA_AV_0604KrLqwM7Wwf2co93g8D9js4-z8nRvmXWV-S7ls4vbo-ASqc/s320/Pizza+Hut.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza Hut... this is by far the most mourned fast food joint I<br />
have ever heard of!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6MXRN9ibEe8yDxepsI9Ije8rm-lCui9I0d5Xm_Kkb4ownujNneyLS6ASjpXqg39j8JItzkLr2MX1Nbuetnkbk-i8XfPq_sLM-NDY7z9XSgEzdy_zVOuSG7x5NRJ7jokv3qMHv2K8qt0/s1600/police+car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="189" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6MXRN9ibEe8yDxepsI9Ije8rm-lCui9I0d5Xm_Kkb4ownujNneyLS6ASjpXqg39j8JItzkLr2MX1Nbuetnkbk-i8XfPq_sLM-NDY7z9XSgEzdy_zVOuSG7x5NRJ7jokv3qMHv2K8qt0/s320/police+car.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whoopsies...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_GaDL52eA1mT4fyJM2UvLqbXwUbAQlstQ_3mqEtjFBM1jRgT_zlpAC2ndAzAjuABQwvVK08FDR3x6U_AG6in7b9RI6GuNgr1oRiM7DoqddykSs0BhnmJ1i3YrJNZSWwiED2jr8giXaM/s1600/schoolhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="203" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_GaDL52eA1mT4fyJM2UvLqbXwUbAQlstQ_3mqEtjFBM1jRgT_zlpAC2ndAzAjuABQwvVK08FDR3x6U_AG6in7b9RI6GuNgr1oRiM7DoqddykSs0BhnmJ1i3YrJNZSWwiED2jr8giXaM/s320/schoolhouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">that little schoolhouse is a historical building, and elementary<br />
school aged children dress up and go here for a day each year.<br />
It is also just down the road from the Milton Hershey Mansion <br />
and the original Chocolate Factory.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_Mcn8Maeo_Sl7wLqHm3WSVB9gd2KXwUBRQKyFQ4Hq79C88gS74xG-TXACv5RFIQU6VPTrN-dDewE2jx_bv7xqaNrmjaW4lQcA0gCNKa6aUe0409arC0M6M4a60_BFQzyYwC9KPrptTg/s1600/woods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_Mcn8Maeo_Sl7wLqHm3WSVB9gd2KXwUBRQKyFQ4Hq79C88gS74xG-TXACv5RFIQU6VPTrN-dDewE2jx_bv7xqaNrmjaW4lQcA0gCNKa6aUe0409arC0M6M4a60_BFQzyYwC9KPrptTg/s320/woods.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gah.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So I mean... really? My dad's pool obviously flooded and nearly flooded his house. It is still raining there and I have no idea when it will stop. My mom says that she heard they are going to lose their water. This crazy lady...<br />
<br />
Yesterday my mom was told at about 1:30pm that she could leave work to get home before the roads got bad. She decided to hang out and finish some work, and then couldn't get herself home! I started seeing Facebook posts that didn't sound like things were going well so I called her to find her in her car with no way home! She went back to her office and my step dad came and picked her up in their truck. Even with the F250 they had issues finding a way home. But they got there.<br />
<br />
They've had to bring in helicopters. Rescue boats. There was some rumor about the National Guard, but I don't know if that's true.<br />
<br />
What's awful?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5D9sRkZVBtxyyfE5-d_QbquO1o4axmjbmRpKI0dSxJOblS2bYLSzRwwRUU4BMoYooYQknLLmNL2njQKof-S1eFeZlUPnZzwKOTGC-LYhOyIlkCrN9PR7z64xYD2vc0rqyhH9NS3eby3U/s1600/bison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5D9sRkZVBtxyyfE5-d_QbquO1o4axmjbmRpKI0dSxJOblS2bYLSzRwwRUU4BMoYooYQknLLmNL2njQKof-S1eFeZlUPnZzwKOTGC-LYhOyIlkCrN9PR7z64xYD2vc0rqyhH9NS3eby3U/s320/bison.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
These two bison were living at ZooAmerica near Hersheypark. Apparently, even though precautions were made and all other animals were evacuated to higher ground, these bison weren't so lucky. When the water rose so quickly, they couldn't be moved. Qualified ZooAmerica employees euthenized the bison when it was clear they couldn't be saved and would most likely suffer and drown. All other animals are fine. But I can't help but wonder if there wasn't something else they could do for these animals. Why were they the only ones that didn't make it out? I highly doubt anyone had it out for the bison, or didn't care about them. I'm sure this situation wasn't purposeful. But still? It breaks my heart. <br />
So far nobody has been really hurt. Some friends have had homes flood. I don't know how long Hershey will take to repair back to this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Also? When the crap did it turn into fall? On Saturday in DC (I still need to upload pictures and things from last weekend, so I'll probably write that up next week) I was sweating it was so hot! By Tuesday I was in sweaters and leggings... what the crap? I am not emotionally prepared for fall. Wasn't it just the beginning of summer yesterday?! Can't. Take. It.<br />
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And seriously? If one more natural disaster drops on my friends and family, I'm gonna lose it! <br />
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Mother Nature, consider yourself officially on notice.<br />
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Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-16103853673484083872011-09-02T14:22:00.001-04:002011-09-02T14:22:18.316-04:00DC Bound in.. like... soon.HIIII!!!<br />
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OK, so update: Last night I did NOT go to the Eagles Bar on the Upper East Side to watch their last pre-season game. I walked home from work with Terri for the 3rd time this week (YAY!) and got home around 7:30. I was starving and had dinner and did laundry and talked to Papa and WENT TO BED!<br />
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Today marks exactly 9 months since my grandmother passed away. Nanny was probably the kindest, sweetest, best grandmother I could have asked for. We all miss her desperately. I think about her all the time. Papa is OK, but pretty sad today. <br />
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On a lighter note... <br />
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Tonight I am having Happy Hour with Ana because it's NECESSARY and we are falling face first off the wagon... we both feel we need to cut back on the drinking (me because I am not losing any weight at all and I suspect that is the reason, Ana because she feels like the neighborhood lush. Ha..). <br />
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Here's hoping we know how to reel it in a little bit because if I don't leave the office soon, I'll have to pack AFTER happy hour. And honestly? I don't see that going well... but maybe I'll just pull an Ana and show up to my destination without a clue as to what is in my bag! WEEEEEEEE!!<br />
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Speaking of destinations... My destination for the long weekend is DC! And it appears we have quite the fun line-up! <br />
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I leave NYC at 9am. Do you hear that? 9am. On a SATURDAY MORNING. Gah. But well worth it. Pray that I get my own seat because FO REAL. Not trying to share. I will arrive in DC around 2pm (give or take for traffic) where I will be greeted by Gia!! <br />
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From there it's lunch, and maybe a walk to see some damage done to the National Cathedral or the Washington Monument. Pray that thing doesn't crash down on me. I'm not much of a runner and if those cracks start making it teeter I'm pretty sure I'd be a goner.<br />
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Then I will head to my brother, Mike and my sister-in-law Jody's home (I am aware that is not grammatically correct. 1) It's Friday, 2) it's a holiday weekend. And that's a tough one to figure out. I'm leaving it.) to let there adorable pooch Magoo out and give him some dinner. We will either have a wine night (me and Gia, not me and Magoo... although I hope he is aware he is welcome to join us...) or we might go out in Balston! WOOO! Party over heeeeeeere! <br />
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The next day we'll get up and head back into DC for the Nationals game vs. the Mets! Gia scored us some box seats which is awfully stellar of her! <br />
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That evening we might meet up with Mike, Jody and QUINN!!! for dinner. No seriously. That's how you spell his name. Q-U-I-N-N and three exclamation points. Fo real. <br />
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OK not really.<br />
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So then maybe Sunday night we'll go out and celebrate labor day by making the bartenders work really hard!<br />
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Monday should be low key. I head back to NYC at 4pm, so... Maybe sleep in and grab a little lunch. <br />
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So that's the plan! Rather exciting, no? The DJ is unaware of my visit (at least I think he is) and will remain this way for as long as I can help it... hopefully until the end of time! I've had 2 or 3 dreams about us fighting over the last couple of days. Here's hoping for his sake that doesn't happen.. because let me tell you... I was BRUTAL!<br />
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So what are your plans for Labor Day? Anybody expected to have a baby over Labor Day? I love that kind of irony... anyway... ENJOY!Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-51258390189536849672011-08-30T15:56:00.000-04:002011-08-30T15:56:48.757-04:001000!!!I would just like to tell you that this blog hit 1000 visitors today!!! That's so exciting!!! Thanks for reading my crazy, hap-hazard ramblings!!Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-5490641528335446892011-08-29T17:23:00.000-04:002011-08-31T18:02:35.627-04:00Summer Hiatus...So I took a little month-long break for the summer from blogging. Not so much because I wanted to. I actually have been driving myself crazy staring at Blogger thinking "I want to write. I want to write about EVERYTHING." But some things are not my stories to tell. But those things shouldn't hold me back. And so I'm going to catch you up on the last month because it has been a DOOSY of a summer, let me tell you!<br />
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OK, so the break started when I went to Florida. I think I went on vacation and just never really felt like coming back...<br />
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So getting out of NYC took 4 hours longer than expected. It was... drizzling. Sporadically. And thus, no flights. Because New York SUCKS like that. So rather than getting in at 10pm or so, I arrived at 2:30am. Yes that's right. Awful. But then I was there YAY!! We decided to stay at the pool where we were staying the first day (Saturday) since the travel day before had been so rough. I will omit the story about my mom getting upset that we weren't doing anything by 10am after she had decided to tell us that we were making no plans for the following day so we could all sleep in and relax. O wait. That's kind of the story... Whoops!<br />
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Sunday we went to Typhoon Lagoon. <br />
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Holy. Hot. People, there aren't even words. By the end of the day I was literally sitting down in the wave pool just trying to keep cool. SITTING IN WATER WAS NOT HELPING!We did the slides early in the day which were all a lot of fun. But by the time the afternoon rolled around I couldn't stand the idea of being out of the water and in the sun for that long. Just no way. Also? The water was either heated... or it was just SO hot that the water couldn't even keep itself cool. Which is really saying something. <br />
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So I kept the first 2 days straight. Now I have to refer to Facebook posts to figure out where the crap I went...<br />
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Looks like the next day was a pool day and then we went to City Walk at Universal. This place is pretty cool, and would probably be a lot of fun with a group of my girls! Tons of cool night life (although it was a little dead mid-week). Being from Hershey and living in NYC, I have a real issue with playing the part of Tourist. Mostly because I know how much they annoy me. My family does not suffer this same affliction. I will leave it at that :) But we had fun, we got to see the last Harry Potter movie which was downright incredible! We caught a glimpse at the Harry Potter theme park at Universal which looks so freaking cool! I had a couple of drinks on this particular night because... well ... they were necessary. But that put me right to sleep! <br />
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The next day we went here:<br />
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And stayed until this time:<br />
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and this time:<br />
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And in case you need another visual:<br />
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And that's just a drop in the bucket! Buzz took about 4 million! We were comparing cell phone photo capabilities. My blackberry failed miserably.<br />
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We did the best rides... Splash Mountain and the Haunted House. Splash Mountain will always be my favorite. The line is HELLA long but it's also a super long ride, with the added bonus of being all about Brer Rabbit, Brer Bear and Brer Fox. My mom used to read me those stories when I was little and she tried to do this terrible southern accent that I'll never forget! Ah... memories... We also did Space Mountain which had me in a laughing fit because of my mom's screams! I couldn't breathe I was laughing so hard at her and she thought I was just having so much fun I couldn't stop laughing! Which probably would have been true if I could concentrate on anything other than her high pitched wailing... awesome! Buzz Lightyear was a favorite... it was basically like being inside a video game where everyone had their own laser pointer attached to their car (you thought I was gonna say head in a Dr. Evil voice didn't you?) and you aimed it at targets which earned points. We all felt we had a faulty laser pointer at one point or another due to low scores. Maybe we just sucked. <br />
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That night we saw the fireworks display from just outside the park which was really pretty. I can't believe they do that every night! Geez! Also? I'd like to know what kind of crack those employees are on.<br />
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What?<br />
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Listen. I have worked at both theme parks and restaurants. There is something that makes them smiley, happy, and approaching annoying and needy guests to offer assistance. Because when it comes to myself in the same situations? I kind of wanted to just kill myself on the spot. So what is it?! You can't tell me they make much above minimum wage, they couldn't afford all those people! The food there isn't that great, so even free food wouldn't buy that kind of attitude. I'm telling you it has to be crack! Or sugar...<br />
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OK. So then the next day we went to Melbourne Beach.<br />
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Look at that!<br />
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This place was beautiful! There weren't many people there. The water was perfectly refreshing. We spent a couple hours there. We had sandywiches (see what I did there?) on our towels and just enjoyed the salty air. The pelicans were out and diving for fish which was pretty incredible to see. Mom was a little nervous about sharks. Jeannine got excited about warm spots until we told her somebody probably peed there. The weather in Florida is a little weird. It was supposed to rain every single day, and it did... just not all over the place. Little pockets got heavy downpours while other places stayed looking like the picture above. So that was nice!<br />
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The last day in Florida was spent at Blizzard Beach.<br />
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So at least this place had cool water! It should, what with it being BLIZZARD beach. See that tall structure in the middle? Those are slides. I went down the second highest. Pretty fun minus the wedgie. But these slides didn't compare at all to Typhoon Lagoon. But they did have a pretty great lazy river, and the group raft ride was awesome! To get to the top they had a "ski lift" which was handy. Because we took the stairs once and all my confidence in my cardio went right out the window.<br />
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After that a series of events occurred. Allow me to summarize some...<br />
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Jersey Shore is back in my life... and has brought me Twinning, Mike the Situation knocking his own damn self out, and Ronnie and Sammy beating a dead horse directly into the ground. Ahh... I love this stuff.<br />
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Ana and I tried to go to see Friends With Benefits at the theater, and the theater busted all up. So no movie. Instead I introduced her to Blockheads, and namely their frozen margaritas. I got the girl all wasty-face, and then sent her home to pack for Chicago! Entertaining for me, but for her? Let's just say that I got a text the next day saying "OMG Connie, I have no idea what I packed or if it's even appropriate for work!" Awesome.<br />
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Football started!!! YAAAAYYY!!! So far the Eagles have 2 wins and a loss (to the Steelers... crap.) in the pre-season. Next game is on Thursday against the Jets. I might have to plan on going to an Eagles bar... I'll keep you posted on that. No seriously. Why do you doubt me! Why do you have to bring up my absence over the last month! Geez! Always bringing up crap from the past! How can we move on if you harbor such resentment?!<br />
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I did decide that I want this Jersey.<br />
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<img height="194" id="il_fi" src="http://product.images.fansedge.com/51-62/51-62065-J.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="200" /><br />
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Bad. The issue is this. So far I have a Trotter and a Westbrook jersey. Guess who are no longer on the team? But if I get a Cunningham throwback jersey, he's no longer on the team! He can't be traded! Also? Cunningham and I go way back. When I was in 3rd grade my dad took me down to West Chester University (my future Alma matre) where the Eagles were practicing. I was the last autograph Cunningham gave that day. Ahh... I'm such a lucky girl. What's that? Where is that autograph? My GOD I wish I knew. Grrrr... Anyway. If any of you see this, PLEASE tell me! NFL shop has sold out and clearly? I need this.<br />
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I have a few more arts and craft projects on the horizon. I am thinking of selling my big book shelves and getting a small book shelf. Also planning on covering or painting the wood planks that Alice so kindly removed from my fireplace and making them into shelves. And I am starting on Christmas presents. I WILL ALSO KEEP YOU UPDATED ON THESE.<br />
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I bar hopped the crap out of a Saturday. No, you heard me right. SaturDAY. All day. From lunchtime on... and on... and on...<br />
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My brother and his girlfriend came to NYC!! Yaaaaay! The first of the Funks to make that trip! I'm so proud :) They spent the day running around the city with her mom and sister, but I got to meet up with them for a few minutes. They were beat! But I think Scott feels comfortable enough to convince everybody else to head up. WOULDN'T THAT BE LOVELY?!<br />
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I asked people to help me hook up my Wii via Facebook. 2 people "liked" my status. Nobody hooked up my Wii. What the crap is that about?<br />
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I had an EPIC movie day with Ana, which Blake (Josh's friend from out of town) join in on, and then later Miranda and Natalie joined in too. We watched Precious ("Heeeey... my favorite color is fluorescent beige..."), Ghosts of Girlfriends Past, The Town... oh GEEZ! I forget. We definitely watched at least 5. We also had taco dip, and s'mores we made over Ana's gas stove. Mmmm... I could use one or ten of those right now... She was going to send some up last night with Josh (her resident delivery boy), but he went out for beer instead. Terrible delivery boy.<br />
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Last week Terri and I got on a for real work out kick! It was fantastic! We either walked home or went to the gym Sunday through Thursday last week. I really felt great. Of course I destroyed it all this weekend, but we'll get to that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB7jF7CwWqiFHecTCSE6Cu19PckxNdERDNifTO4AqGDzbUDhw-zc7bksFICcAJu-kUzzXxr9JhsGfLAom2JO7PijAbjRIspYLf17BPiwEJX5kOkgnznKNh1UtKO7xwCHYrgKKV9Z_xohY/s1600/Terri+and+Ollie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB7jF7CwWqiFHecTCSE6Cu19PckxNdERDNifTO4AqGDzbUDhw-zc7bksFICcAJu-kUzzXxr9JhsGfLAom2JO7PijAbjRIspYLf17BPiwEJX5kOkgnznKNh1UtKO7xwCHYrgKKV9Z_xohY/s320/Terri+and+Ollie.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terri and Ollie-Wollie on one of our walks</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
So last week we had a little excitement. Here I am, sitting at my desk around 1:30pm (EST) and I started to feel a little light headed. I thought maybe I was just hungry so I ignored it, but then I realized it felt like my chair was bouncing up and down. That's not a hunger pang I am familiar with actually... So then I look up a little bit and notice that my water in my water bottle is sloshing around. Either my stomach is really growling or there's something else going on here... So I look up, and Eric (my co-worker) says "did you feel the earthquake?" <br />
<br />
um.<br />
<br />
Huh?<br />
<br />
No no no this is NYC. We're more likely to have King Kong here than an earthquake. Are you SURE there isn't a giant gorilla clinging to the side of our building? <br />
<br />
Nope. Totally an earthquake. Awesome.<br />
<br />
So naturally I rushed home (after work and after the gym because helloooo... Terri and I made a pact!) to make sure my little Puka was OK.<br />
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Puka was all "What? No big deal. I'm kind of a bad ass. So the ground shook? And? Look at me! Totally good...."<br />
<br />
Then, as though that wasn't enough Mother Nature for one week, we start hearing about Hurricane Irene hitting us dead on a few days later. So the city just loses its' EVER LOVING MIND and starts going APE SHIT over this storm which... really? So the city does what it usually does and incites public panic. "We're evacuating you AND shutting down all public transportation HOURS earlier than necessary just to mess with you so YOU figure it out! Muaahahahahahaha... Oh, and also? We're shutting down all roads that lead into or out of NYC and surrounding areas. So yeah, you can't do that either. We are also going to set up evacuation centers for those that need it. Best of luck figuring out where they are, as many are quite close to evacuation zones. But all of this is OK because even though we really think it's for the best if you evacuate, we're only making it a volunteer basis which means that we don't have to be held responsible for you having a way out of the evacuation zone! WEEEEE!!!!"<br />
<br />
You know who wasn't phased?<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bad. Ass.</td></tr>
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I tried to get up on Saturday and do laundry, which was closed. And then I tried to grab a few extra groceries form the store... which was closed. I would have visited friends, but by the time I finished getting anything done at all (AKA picking up my room) the MTA had already shut down all buses and subways. So I sat in my house, on the couch, and watched TV. I watched a little of the 24/7 Hurricane Irene Watch. Ugh. Boring. I think about 3am on Sunday is when anything of note happened. As Puka and I put ourselves to bed, the wind started up, and the rain got heavier. Something crashed outside (I have no idea what it was to this day so I'm assuming it was nothing and no big deal. Yup.) and Puka (the Bad Ass?) nearly jumped out of her skin. She stayed close for the rest of the night. The next morning I expected to see chunks missing out of buildings and my windows shattered and branches and whole trees laying in the streets.<br />
<br />
Um.<br />
<br />
There were some leaves? And the rain we got didn't even wash away the dirt from the construction happening across the street. <br />
<br />
I turned on the TV to check out what the news was saying. Nothing in NYC was even worth showing. I saw images from North Carolina, Virgina, Maryland, Delaware, Long Island and Rhode Island. <br />
<br />
Here's the thing. I'm glad we were prepared just in case. But the panic that the media and city officials caused was absolutely ridiculous. Shutting down ALL public transportation that early in the day is crazy. It was closed 16 hours before the storm even it, and 24 hours before the storm was expected to hit. Shutting down the city like that makes things worse, not better. By the time people have current information, it's too late to evacuate. Crazy town. But whatever, we survived. I found out my office was open today before I knew whether subways would be up and running again. So I thought I was going to have to walk to work... ugh! Thankfully everything was back to normal for the most part. I left a little early since I assumed they would be running slower than normal. But the tracks were dry as the Sahara and everything was just peachy. I got to work about 15 minutes early (20 minutes before I normally do... ha ha... but seriously.) and it is nothing but a beautiful day here! Sunny, 70 degrees, breezy... fantastic.<br />
<br />
Last night were the VMAs. I'm going to give you a run down of my comments that I posted to Facebook, as they apparently summed them up well according to my friend Jill. So here we go...<br />
<br />
The VMAs are looking a little raw... and not so much in a good way...<br />
<br />
I love Katy Perry coming in with Russell Brand... ugh... adorable!<br />
<br />
What the crap is happening right now? GaGa... you've lost me. She's so far gone, Britney Spears doesn't even get it. I think she created that alter ego because she out-weirded what even GaGa could handle and had to become a second person.<br />
<br />
Oh Hov, I do love you, why are you letting that skeez share the stage with you?<br />
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Adele makes me want to do something between smile and cry...<br />
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<br />
Can somebody tell the Beib that his glasses are too big?<br />
<br />
Chris Brown's performances are so fun!<br />
<br />
The Britney Spears Tribute was the best performance of the night... AMAZING!<br />
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OK Beyonce... way to class it up... finally!<br />
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WOOOOOOW!!! BEST BABY ON THE WAY REVEAL EVER!!!!!!!<br />
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Tyler the Creator's mama is losin her MIND! But can he please stop cursing in front of his mom? Have a little respect.<br />
<br />
Russel Brand has quickly become one of my favorite people...<br />
<br />
Ugh... Katy and Russel... you kids break my little heart...<br />
<br />
Drake, it's summer... what the crap are you wearing that cheesy cardigan for?<br />
<br />
if Lil Wayne wasn't so freakin ugly he'd be hot... know what I mean?<br />
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<span style="color: red;">*Edited to add: Viacom SUCKS for taking away all of my videos I had posted! I will never understand why people don't want these things shared! So stupid!*</span></div>
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And last, and definitely the least important... the DJ has been a big ole pain in the ass this last month. His birthday was on the 14th. He had personally sent me an OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FACEBOOK INVITE TO HIS BIRTHDAY, and then got all upset that I wasn't coming down for the occasion because "CLEARLY" he wanted me there. So he got angry, and then he started tagging me in facebook posts, sending me IMs for no reason... yada yada yada. Finally his birthday weekend came and I still did not go down to DC for the festivities. Obvi. I posted a question to the general population of facebook on Saturday morning which he responded to, and then immediately called me to walk me through it. I did send him a birthday card just to be nice. He was clearly upset (for whatever reason) that I wasn't at his birthday, so I figured the least I could do would be to send him a card. So he called me for a second time that same day to thank me for the card. And then I was badgered all day Sunday via BBM about how I should go to visit, and how much he looooved me, and how he needed to see a little effort on my part. Clearly I find this to be a stupid, stupid idea. But after talking to Flo, she made a good point. So what if I go down? One of two things are going to happen. I might get set back, and start to miss him and want him back. Or, I'm going to go down and see what I already know is happening and realize that I want no part of it. This way I would get closure and not even have a reason to keep talking to him and I could move on. </div>
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Well.</div>
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It didn't even need to go that far. I did agree to visit him. The very next day he told me he was so drunk he didn't remember asking me to visit, but that I still 'could' . COULD?! That makes it sound like I was requesting to see him! Not at all the case! And then he tags me in the album from his birthday on facebook. I'm tagged to the face of the UGLIEST girl that he's taken up hanging out with, and my facebook wall is plastered with him hanging all over his ex-girlfriend with his tongue down her throat. Yeah... I'm good. I really didn't need closure to begin with, but I don't need to be disrespected continuously by a guy I have nothing to do with. I told him I would not be coming and that he needed to un-tag me from the album. Then I set to deleting him. I deleted him from BBM, phone contacts, email contacts, AIM, and both facebook pages. </div>
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Then he emailed me. And I told him to feel free to lose my number and my email address. The response I got was "Really?! OK... good luck then..." and that's been it. I think my cutting him off for the first time since I kicked him out of bed almost 8 months ago was enough of a blow to his ego for him to contact me again. We'll see. But it is nice not having him around at all, even in the social networking world.</div>
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On a positive boy note... Mike is just doing fabulous things again and is a producer for Fox's new show called "Dish Nation"! So cool right?? I'm really excited for him and impressed as usual. Why is this country so freaking big?! Anyway, check your local listings or go to <a href="http://www.dishnation.com/">http://www.dishnation.com/</a>... so proud!</div>
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OK, so there it is. It's in no way concise or really all that pretty. But it's my life over the last month. And now that I feel a bit more on track and refreshed after a lack of expressing myself, I think I'll probably keep it up :)</div>
Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-26787380824076838632011-07-27T15:55:00.000-04:002011-07-27T15:55:52.450-04:00I Think I Just Had A Miraculous Recovery!No today is not weight loss Wednesday because I was unable to make it to the gym. Here's hoping I make it either tonight or tomorrow... but if we're being honest that isn't looking like a strong possibility. <br />
<br />
But I think I might have good news!<br />
<br />
When I started this blog 7 months ago, I was going through a rough time. I was going through my break-up with the DJ. I posted flow charts of grieving to track where I was, and talked about my feeeeeelings a LOT. Finally I got to the point where I was OK. I was having a ton of fun and had great friends and was really appreciating the life that I had. But if I'm honest, I was still really missing the DJ. Even after all the crap, and how terribly he treated me for the last year of our relationship, I loved him more than I've ever loved anyone and I didn't want to let go of hope. Hope for what? I have no idea. Hope that maybe he would change into the man I needed him to be? The man I still know is possible for him to be? Hope that he would figure out that we had the makings of something great that is worth holding on to? All of the above? I don't know. <br />
<br />
In an attempt to stop feeling sad about him I took him off my news feed on Facebook. For some reason when we broke up he was suddenly the top post every time I logged in to Facebook every single day. It was like somebody was smacking me across the face multiple times a day. But taking him off the news feed didn't help. I was still sad.<br />
<br />
The crying at night did stop. The constantly thinking about him stopped. But missing him and thinking about the future we should have had really never stopped. Maybe it subsided a little bit, but... never totally gone.<br />
<br />
I have lacked any interest in dating, or even going on a date. And any time I see someone I am attracted to, I come up with a reason for why I shouldn't even take a second look. My favorite is "He probably has hairy toes, and really? I don't want to deal with that."<br />
<br />
My girls have tried to make me feel better about that by declaring that they have hairy toes too. This does not help, and also sort of makes me look at them like they're weirdos. I will turn them on to Nair if it kills me.<br />
<br />
Then I went to that <a href="http://funkytownchronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-should-probably-catch-you-up.html">wedding</a> and had 3 dreams in 3 nights about the DJ. Nothing in particular, just that we were together. Doing normal every day things together. I woke up and didn't feel sad or angry. Mostly surprised that I was dreaming about him. Which just made me think about him a lot. <br />
<br />
Then on Monday night I received an invite from him on Facebook to his Birthday Bonanza (but he forgot an "n" so it came out Birthday Bonaza. This is not the first time he's done this. It drives me crazy.) I wasn't sure how to deal with the invite at first. I knew that he didn't really expect or really want me to go. But he extended an olive branch, so I had a choice.<br />
<br />
I could just click "not attending" on the invite and call it a day. I would come off as a frigid bitch, but it would be over, I guess.<br />
<br />
Or, I could just thank him for the invite and politely decline.<br />
<br />
Or, I could just leave it unanswered in my inbox. (Crap. I didn't think of THIS option until right now.)<br />
<br />
So I sent the DJ an IM. I simply said "Thanks for the invite. I'm taking it as an olive branch rather than a serious invite, but I really appreciate it. If you do end up getting arrested (which he has a propensity to do. Let's just leave that alone, eh?) and somebody doesn't know the protocol, they can feel free to call me and I'll walk them through it. I'm sure you'll have a good weekend though."<br />
<br />
Simple enough, right? A little joke, well wishes and a thank you. <br />
<br />
HA.<br />
<br />
You would have thought I just slapped his mother and kicked his dog.<br />
<br />
It turned into this huge ordeal. When the DJ gets upset, he stops making sense. Basically whatever is jumping around in his head comes out all disorganized and is not discernible to anyone but himself. But basically, he said that he was trying to be cool about everything, and if he didn't want me there he wouldn't have invited me. But I have the invite, so if I don't come then he'll take the hint and I wouldn't hear from him again.<br />
<br />
Um.<br />
<br />
What?<br />
<br />
I told him that if I didn't come to his birthday it was a me thing, not him. That I thought it was a time he should spend with his friends and not be worrying about me. And that if I didn't come, it wasn't me saying I never wanted to talk to him again. <br />
<br />
He said that we don't talk now, so what would be the difference? (Which only confused me because what? If it won't make a difference then why is it a good idea for me to come to the birthday at all?) I was a friend and he would treat me like anybody else. He said he was trying to be cordial with me but it was clear I didn't want to be cordial.<br />
<br />
I said that we have known each other for too long to try to be something we're not. So if he doesn't want to be cordial to me, then just don't. That I don't know where I stand in the whole break up/ healing/ over it phases, and he was clearly over me. So it might just be painful to be there.<br />
<br />
He said that he's just trying to get by at the moment, and it is what it is. <br />
<br />
I told him that was a very political response, and that DC was rubbing off on him.<br />
<br />
He said he had nothing to hide.<br />
<br />
I said "ok, but it hides everything".<br />
<br />
So he said he has nothing to hide... again....<br />
<br />
After about 10 minutes or more of silence I said, "OK aaaaaaaaand break! Oh, we already did that." ya know, just to lighten the conversation? That didn't work. <br />
<br />
So I went to bed and cried.<br />
<br />
I told Terri about the conversation. She said not to stress because she felt like he over reacted. When I told Miranda I had been invited to his birthday she asked if I was going to take a date. THAT would have been awesome.<br />
<br />
So I went home last night and started getting weepy again. And I was just thinking about things and why I was so sad when I knew I didn't want to be with him anymore. <br />
<br />
And then it clicked.<br />
<br />
There I am, having a conversation with myself and the DJ in my head, and it just clicked.<br />
<br />
The DJ had taken all the things he had done to his ex girlfriends, cheating on Stephanie, being an asshat with Lorelei, and rejecting Lindsay and making her feel like she was a last choice, and he did them ALL to me. But just to compound it, to make sure he had really damaged me, he added lying and sneaking around, the two things he knew would destroy me. And then for the icing on the cake, he abandoned me. He left me to deal with all the things he had committed to handling with me. He left me in New York by myself. He left me like so many people had in the past, and the weight of all of this crushed me. <br />
<br />
And somehow, for the last 7 months, the DJ has had some power over me. And last night, in my head, alone in my apartment, watching Trucker, I told him he couldn't do that to me anymore.<br />
<br />
The crying stopped.<br />
<br />
I sat up and felt powerful.<br />
<br />
I felt together.<br />
<br />
I felt like myself again. The me that I really liked that was independent and strong. The me that didn't rely on the DJ for anything anymore. <br />
<br />
The reason the DJ keeps drinking too much, and getting arrested, and treating his girlfriends and friends badly, and womanizing.... it's because people always make it OK for him to. They always show up to his birthday. They always tell him how fantastic he is, when just a few years ago he treated you like an asshat, or last choice, or he cheated on you. And if people want to encourage this, then fine! That's fine. They can deal with finding him face down in his own urine. Or pay the bills he can't or won't. Or find him a job because he can't do it himself. Or bail him out of jail. Or walk Maggie when she's crying to go out (which she only does if it's an emergency) because he feels that she can wait until he's good and ready simply because she is his property.<br />
<br />
But I won't be. <br />
<br />
I don't accept that DJ. None of that is OK. And I certainly won't let somebody like that keep me down. <br />
<br />
And today I feel lighter. Like physically, emotionally, spiritually healthier. Even when I try to recall him, it's like my mind pushes even the image of him away. <br />
<br />
I think I'm actually healed!Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-4219830320558438142011-07-25T17:36:00.001-04:002011-07-25T17:44:24.963-04:00The 1st Relaxing Weekend I Have Had In The History Of Ever.That's right! I did it! I had a relaxing weekend! It's Monday, it's raining cats and dogs, and I feel just fine! Not sleepy or run down or anything. Just good!<br />
<br />
Speaking of cats and dogs.... <br />
<br />
I almost adopted THIS little beauty this weekend:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyN-PWE15m-dBswi4HWTmfUrMUShQ5yziI6WXyR9Hg6hHazbj6WIf1_XDVoAjChXJ_OklWjJE57JY7WcyIiYrkZJmN9mEKfCjQ_yPExVyuaqmG1mftBuAfNeWJFd-hj71naMoqrH21ow/s1600/Cookie+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyN-PWE15m-dBswi4HWTmfUrMUShQ5yziI6WXyR9Hg6hHazbj6WIf1_XDVoAjChXJ_OklWjJE57JY7WcyIiYrkZJmN9mEKfCjQ_yPExVyuaqmG1mftBuAfNeWJFd-hj71naMoqrH21ow/s320/Cookie+1.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Cookie. Everybody say "HI" to Cookie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnlv2j4SShrx6loyt3KKbw6iPB_Shpe6to9-PPY6aZ_HG89brzuwxAhEJ78tBBdmwpo2EMVLMuymAdhZNRG9yIHbuEyP-wP6ZLqIGK-pHWBKliYp7b41Vr_jXoR7_Vnpmvs8rBDDCEDo/s1600/Cookie+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnlv2j4SShrx6loyt3KKbw6iPB_Shpe6to9-PPY6aZ_HG89brzuwxAhEJ78tBBdmwpo2EMVLMuymAdhZNRG9yIHbuEyP-wP6ZLqIGK-pHWBKliYp7b41Vr_jXoR7_Vnpmvs8rBDDCEDo/s320/Cookie+2.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cookie is a 3 year old Boxer/Pitbull mix.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Why did I not adopt her? I STILL HAVEN'T FIGURED THAT OUT! <br />
<br />
She is absolutely adorable. They said she weighs 50 pounds but she looked like she weighed about 35. She was super affectionate and friendly. She didn't bark. She is friendly with people and animals of all types..<br />
<br />
Puka.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hcOZUCF12H6oiBsdHc35K2u8PHjN5N8RMlXo23JJ8x5TY3IrvTshyphenhyphenbKfyECsnmmL36_7HY7NpKb77xRzVmy_WHCD49xCkcw0ydOWJWFYTWpTHKKGBqYXXLzJNw0V4YcZaWWyShPI87U/s1600/Puka+Packing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hcOZUCF12H6oiBsdHc35K2u8PHjN5N8RMlXo23JJ8x5TY3IrvTshyphenhyphenbKfyECsnmmL36_7HY7NpKb77xRzVmy_WHCD49xCkcw0ydOWJWFYTWpTHKKGBqYXXLzJNw0V4YcZaWWyShPI87U/s320/Puka+Packing.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div>That means you. Don't look at me like that.<br />
<br />
Cookie was previously owned by an immigrant to the US who didn't have much choice when it came to housing in NYC. Unfortunately, her new landlord wouldn't allow her to keep Cookie and no one in her family was able to take care of her. So Cookie is currently at the Humane Society.<br />
<br />
And I? Am DYING to give her a home! The roommate has reservations because our apartment isn't big enough for 2 pets and she's never home to take care of her.<br />
<br />
I have responses for both of those.<br />
<br />
Puka takes up very little space, and this little cuddle monkey named Cookie is also quite small. Our apartment is 900 square feet. In a 900 square foot apartment I had Puka and Maggie.<br />
<br />
<br />
....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Remember Maggie??<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYjmjGSLKhuWQSAAvyNTA8nEsDk0B7bOl9vT7F0uNfjshlGR0Xuw0D46PhKxfMUx4Ark0osL5kBvkFlquj9g3WNhg2rjWUAMnlt-ZVOhE1B3tqR6E1QRMmpiD04Zz-dD5n5ZqJ2DNjIg/s1600/Maggie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYjmjGSLKhuWQSAAvyNTA8nEsDk0B7bOl9vT7F0uNfjshlGR0Xuw0D46PhKxfMUx4Ark0osL5kBvkFlquj9g3WNhg2rjWUAMnlt-ZVOhE1B3tqR6E1QRMmpiD04Zz-dD5n5ZqJ2DNjIg/s320/Maggie.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sigh....</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Anyway. I don't think space is an issue. And as far as the roommate not being around to take care of her...<br />
<br />
...um...<br />
<br />
Hello. My name is Connie. I am 27 years old, and have successfully taken care of pets previously, most recently IT'S HAPPENING RIGHT NOW!<br />
<br />
Clearly this is still in the back of my head. I am leaving for Florida on Friday. If I get back next week and I call the Humane Society only to find that Cookie is still available?? She's coming for a visit. That is happening. I will take it as a sign. And Flo will fall in love, and it will be fine. <br />
<br />
Puka.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYernmmnPSFSLmRneVhSvf2CuobapGmyozC-uMVCIPih5YW6KP6HTIYJYaoNVA_MjvlRB8-MwYEB_Qxhyphenhypheneeco5VpHnRBdX1XHJAnbptUfAXYRklSn9Phfij72lojnFB6yoj3VXEO6_AE/s1600/Puka+Butt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYernmmnPSFSLmRneVhSvf2CuobapGmyozC-uMVCIPih5YW6KP6HTIYJYaoNVA_MjvlRB8-MwYEB_Qxhyphenhypheneeco5VpHnRBdX1XHJAnbptUfAXYRklSn9Phfij72lojnFB6yoj3VXEO6_AE/s320/Puka+Butt.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pull it together, Puka. Not even fancy disguises will <br />
help you hide from this happening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anyway. So there's that part of my weekend.<br />
<br />
The rest of it contained living at what felt like the center of the earth. It was 4 hundred million degrees. On Friday I had won a free happy hour. $1 Beers, $2 Mixed Drinks?? ON IT! But I really kind of wish I had the foresight to wear a bathing suit because...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQH0EwJWsa70m8jtlU7sUEPQ_Ya0_j8OBlyjLAGli0BdGeJzbsvfQLF9Fg8xFxeb497l4-Mb02s8JvrevXEWlT30Q-LBUq3EHge7iU7GYpnjiye5T6xLGr_oSNA_XiYF6VbovPPqNFjCI/s1600/Hydrant.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQH0EwJWsa70m8jtlU7sUEPQ_Ya0_j8OBlyjLAGli0BdGeJzbsvfQLF9Fg8xFxeb497l4-Mb02s8JvrevXEWlT30Q-LBUq3EHge7iU7GYpnjiye5T6xLGr_oSNA_XiYF6VbovPPqNFjCI/s320/Hydrant.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div>Our friends the FDNY were driving around opening fire hydrants to let people cool off! On Thursday I posted on my Facebook that they should... and they did! That's the power of the written word, people! These girls were ready to go! Shoes off and both were equipped with bathing suits! I just walked close enough to get the mist. To be honest, I should have walked right through it. I would have dried by the time I got to the bar 3 blocks away. I would also like to mention the state of this girl's city tan. It's about like mine. And now I don't feel so bad anymore.<br />
<br />
Anyway, so the bar? Yeah. The AC was broken. WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?? Worst situation ever. So me, Ana and Kelly sat and chugged ice cold beers until we cooled down. So delish... and I don't even drink beer! From the happy hour we cabbed downtown to the Rockwood Music Hall, a huge venue on Houston Street with a couple of rooms for live entertainment. We somehow scored a front row seat in the beautifully ACed lounge! But still immediately ordered more beers.<br />
<br />
The first guy we saw was:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfn0wVUYtEi6JsF4D0Orxg0J4rUa7JEha-XG7vWV5M0q4FE_NDtKhCghCo9Omj11NrUlBSXfekiGNWYzMgz1AnUMw9wPnMJsitjYfj6XQMAyHhI6iGTT0Q_6tazI5QcRh-tKzjTZPu-4/s1600/Christopher+Paul+Stelling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfn0wVUYtEi6JsF4D0Orxg0J4rUa7JEha-XG7vWV5M0q4FE_NDtKhCghCo9Omj11NrUlBSXfekiGNWYzMgz1AnUMw9wPnMJsitjYfj6XQMAyHhI6iGTT0Q_6tazI5QcRh-tKzjTZPu-4/s320/Christopher+Paul+Stelling.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christopher Paul Stelling... and Kelly's knee...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>He had a very cool sound and played a great set! He was even kind enough to accidentally share his jingle bells with us when they fell off his ankle. Anyway, super cool and recording his first legit album so check him out!<br />
<br />
Then came the main attraction!<br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtY3SLW23p8b2s5hyXi5x4DkPeb9xcP8SBkRCjJ1Zi7oqImqtcgVfWusK9y9pHcVpSXHzHr5eujL_TjOnkFPTP90ks4gsGo1L6fdIhyphenhyphen7t5xHCOoHYdOyQq7vHkNQVJDAJ1RaDoE5yGd30/s1600/Delta+Rae+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtY3SLW23p8b2s5hyXi5x4DkPeb9xcP8SBkRCjJ1Zi7oqImqtcgVfWusK9y9pHcVpSXHzHr5eujL_TjOnkFPTP90ks4gsGo1L6fdIhyphenhyphen7t5xHCOoHYdOyQq7vHkNQVJDAJ1RaDoE5yGd30/s320/Delta+Rae+3.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ladies and Gentlemen... Delta Rae!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-cFIh6XLowqsNPU__OA7jSwwtF1-K9ettApFBuQFrQbpMBfmE1sA5LlJLMwboLsVPR9loeHLBug5ifi-AaMaHH9WO3lZz1OkM81HjYFBcnao8vDDzfoV9qNzDpI5E7MVxdlt7d5waOI/s1600/Delta+Rae+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-cFIh6XLowqsNPU__OA7jSwwtF1-K9ettApFBuQFrQbpMBfmE1sA5LlJLMwboLsVPR9loeHLBug5ifi-AaMaHH9WO3lZz1OkM81HjYFBcnao8vDDzfoV9qNzDpI5E7MVxdlt7d5waOI/s320/Delta+Rae+2.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ana is friends with the Bass player right there, <br />
And the guy on drums was fun in a goofy way...<br />
The guy on the mic right there almost made me cry<br />
when he sang about his grandfather...</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiruWVwdcrClVudAP10L8T_3oQVTw3Ho-ATl6muxfTfGtkSNDm6dFOQyuIxz9k8zXXvLp6IhMp3GWPO9DIAJd6s9CGPqea2yPNwq_k_0qcmS_gu1m9yTzQeloqdmrRAtUKtk-ySvr3o1C4/s1600/Delta+Rae+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiruWVwdcrClVudAP10L8T_3oQVTw3Ho-ATl6muxfTfGtkSNDm6dFOQyuIxz9k8zXXvLp6IhMp3GWPO9DIAJd6s9CGPqea2yPNwq_k_0qcmS_gu1m9yTzQeloqdmrRAtUKtk-ySvr3o1C4/s320/Delta+Rae+1.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They pulled that huge Grand Piano down from<br />
the rafters using a pulley system... nutso!<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anyway, these guys just came off of a tour and they were really fantastic! The guy playing the piano, the blond girl singing and the blond guy singing are brothers and sister. They did an amazing A Capella song that I just loved! But I don't remember NOT liking anything they did! So definitely check out Delta Rae at <a href="http://deltarae.com/">DeltaRae.com</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/VNv4wZbeX8Q?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JkRmkpps0rk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
That venue for "Fire" is actually the venue I saw them in. Cool right??<br />
<br />
On Saturday my friend Davine and I went to brunch. Remember that name... she's going to be a BIG time actress one day! She's incredibly talented and seems to have some really great people in her corner. I'm so excited to see what she does! <br />
<br />
Anyway, we went to Gina la Fornarina on 83rd Street and 2nd Ave. There's also one on the West side for you locals. I had the same panini (Smoked salmon with dill creme fraische and a side salad) that I had the last time I was there because it's just so good! But really? Everything is delish! I got a gift certificate for super cheap on Restaurants.com and saved us some money. Win-win!<br />
<br />
Then I went shopping at H&M which was a lot of fun. I know that I have only lost a small amount of what I want to lose weight wise, but I can already tell a difference! Things that I think won't fit me or look right actually work! I got an adorable lace skirt and a fitted slate blue/gray tank top and a light sweater for work. Adorable! <br />
<br />
It was about that time when Miranda asked if I wanted to meet her at Reservoir bar (her new place of employment which will hopefully help her to leave Planet Hollywood for ever and ever!) when she was done working at 6. Yeah sure I can do that. And I did.<br />
<br />
And I discovered this:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQ6sqwa3FoAPJTux24C93wrwQ_DNuW3iy9lMf87Fmqqx00h683PtxWJ5a6nC29qOlGYEXbMsI57xrSkYOT9-uTkQ6My9HujidSUtsARjU6kiB2dL7P_OJFRdIdRb4OkCETqpigmo5IxE/s1600/My+Bar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQ6sqwa3FoAPJTux24C93wrwQ_DNuW3iy9lMf87Fmqqx00h683PtxWJ5a6nC29qOlGYEXbMsI57xrSkYOT9-uTkQ6My9HujidSUtsARjU6kiB2dL7P_OJFRdIdRb4OkCETqpigmo5IxE/s320/My+Bar.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div>Do you see what I see?<br />
<br />
No. Not the fish<br />
<br />
No. Not the 2 Jumbo Soft Pretzels for $4.50. Although they are Delicious!<br />
<br />
THE BAR BELONGS TO ME! See? It has my name on it! And I take that to mean it's mine. So that's handy.. ya know... owning your own bar in NYC. <br />
<br />
So there we are, hangin out for like 6 hours when Miranda starts to lose her ever loving mind because OMGOMGOMG RECKLESS KELLY IS COMING IN THEY'RE LIKE ALABAMA PEOPLE AND IT'S MY MUSIC IN NYC AND OMGOMGOMG!<br />
<br />
Yeah.<br />
<br />
So that happened:<br />
<br />
<img class="rg_hi" data-height="181" data-width="278" height="181" id="rg_hi" 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" style="height: 181px; width: 278px;" width="278" /><br />
<br />
Which was cool! They just got done playing at the Bowery Ballroom, so I didn't get to actually see them perform. But they were very nice guys! Miranda bought one of the band members a drink and he was very nice about it and met us all. Then there was a guy in a red hat that was with the band....<br />
<br />
... or... worked with the band....<br />
<br />
... or... came with the band...<br />
<br />
... or... ya know... walked in at the same time as the band? Something like that...<br />
<br />
That was trying to get Miranda to come back and "check out the bus". Ugh. Please. Like we haven't heard THAT line a million times!<br />
<br />
But I did get to see Kelly (the slightly less reckless one :)) and our friend Steve came to hang out which was super nice! <br />
<br />
Sunday I didn't do CRAP! I slept in, I watched movies, I had a meatball sub from Luigi's... it was a good day.<br />
<br />
OH. One thing I forgot about! On Saturday before brunch the Salvation Army Truck came and took all the clothes Flo and I are donating and so I totally got rid of THE LAST CARDBOARD BOX IN MY APARTMENT!!<br />
<br />
That's a HUGE accomplishment!<br />
<br />
So this week is all planning for Florida and trying to get into the gym and eat healthy so I look as incredible as possible in a bathing suit next week. Wish me luck! Because currently I am craving Chinese food and massaman curry. Ugh. <br />
<br />
OK, I'll be back before I head to Florida, I kind of almost promise! Weeeeee!!<br />
Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-64424030889600568992011-07-22T13:39:00.001-04:002011-07-22T14:14:26.658-04:00I should probably catch you up...So in my prolonged absence, lots and lots has happened!<br />
<br />
Let's start the weekend of the 8th, 9th and 10th. <br />
<br />
So on the 8th, Friday, I left work and headed to Miranda's house to pick up a table for the next day's Stella and Dot jewelry party. I figured it would be a quick visit. But to be honest, after you climb the stairs to a 5th floor walkup, it's just not right to stay for less than an hour or two. So I did. And then Miranda started talking about Outback and how badly she wanted it. AAAAAAnd so we went. SO SO GOOD! And by the way? One of the most reasonably priced meals I've had in NYC I think ever. Granted we did not drink, but I had a fillet, a delish salad and half of a piece of carrot cake. Mmm mmm mmm!<br />
<br />
So I finally made it home that night and got some food together for the next day. In hindsight, I should have started the trunk show for Stella and Dot at 6pm, rather than 1. Only Leah could come at that time, and so Leah, Ana and I sat around and drank and ate SO MUCH FOOD before everybody else could show up after work! But we had about 8 girls show up and orders are still coming in. By the way, if you are interested in checking out Stella and Dot, or you want to make a purchase, feel free to visit Ana's website at <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/anatownsend">www.stelladot.com/anatownsend</a>. When you check out, put the host as Connie, and we'll all win! <br />
<br />
OK, so the food. You guys. I made so so so much food! Which is good because we ate almost all of it! They kindly left me with about 4 pounds of Nutella fudge to finish. That's good for the diet. Ugh. But Anyway, here's what I made:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkUaay1FAk_Of2Rf4k1-R-L2pl5Cv9kzTr5a8Tw2J4wHXCoBxvs_7ATQXD8JGPcCZH93w0R8Yf6I5pSG3jsVNn02QYpu4kNifkuDHuhDa9LVcGAcDWCi6ZYmRVXUrxnQuCLmpRJO9vNck/s1600/Nutella+Brownies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkUaay1FAk_Of2Rf4k1-R-L2pl5Cv9kzTr5a8Tw2J4wHXCoBxvs_7ATQXD8JGPcCZH93w0R8Yf6I5pSG3jsVNn02QYpu4kNifkuDHuhDa9LVcGAcDWCi6ZYmRVXUrxnQuCLmpRJO9vNck/s320/Nutella+Brownies.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>These are the Nutella Fudge. So easy to make.<br />
<br />
In a double boiler combine:<br />
1 14oz. can of Sweetened Condensed Milk<br />
8 oz. of good quality bitter sweet chocolate chips (I used Ghirradelli)<br />
3 tbsp. peanut butter<br />
1 cup nutella<br />
3 tbsp. unsalted butter at room temperature, diced<br />
1 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
<br />
Stir in the double boiler until melted and completely combined. Pour the mixture into an already greased and lined glass pan/dish. I didn't have any of that fancy parchment or wax or even plastic wrap. I literally lined my dish with plastic bags. Sometimes in NYC you have to be scrappy. The recipe says that after you pour the mixture into the lined dish that you should sprinkle sea salt on it. Honestly, I would let it harden for 30 minutes or so before doing this. That way the salt doesn't just sink or melt into the hot fudge. (speaking of, this would be TO DIE FOR on top of ice cream sundaes before it's cooled. Yummm). Then you chop the fudge up into squares and eat! Just be warned, they are incredibly rich. Really. I had 1 piece and was good to go on my sweet tooth for a couple days. So good though!<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3gNfAYGV-j0raklvqMUAIwzKwQDPBTztl5mCowVF2umOMCUxE7lxB8pNPNILwif9IQG3aWw55JQnfUwZvDv6W4c3XFzocyFDDurisU8l8Pc8TmKddeb0pFwejb5ez0MMgEzzuph9oo4/s1600/Potatoe+Balls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3gNfAYGV-j0raklvqMUAIwzKwQDPBTztl5mCowVF2umOMCUxE7lxB8pNPNILwif9IQG3aWw55JQnfUwZvDv6W4c3XFzocyFDDurisU8l8Pc8TmKddeb0pFwejb5ez0MMgEzzuph9oo4/s320/Potatoe+Balls.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>These are Cheese Potato Balls. I took the idea of this recipe and made it my own. There was a little trial and error with these, so I'll try to give you the best information I can. The good thing is that these are something you can prepare beforehand and then just put together in about 15 minutes the day of. So the night before I made mashed potatoes the way I always would. I peeled and diced maybe 5 or 6 medium sized potatoes, diced them and boiled them until they were cooked through. I've gotten some crap in the past for using a hand mixer to make mashed potatoes. So sue me, I like creamy rather than chunky mashed potatoes! Moving on. I use unsalted butter, skim milk, garlic powder, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder. I didn't put as much salt in as usual because I figured these would be mixed with Cheddar cheese, and thus would be saltier. In hindsight, I should have made them normally. After you make the mashed potatoes, put them in a container and refrigerate them over night. I also grated a block of cheddar cheese so that it was ready for the next day. <br />
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The next day, I combined the mashed potatoes and shredded cheddar cheese. I used enough so that you could see the cheddar throughout the potatoes. This was another mistake. Use way more cheese than you think you should. It will keep the balls more moist (ew. Stop.) and flavorful. Then I rolled them into balls, and double breaded them. I dipped them in egg, then in bread crumbs, back in the egg, then back into the bread crumbs. First I used just regular bread crumbs. The second batch I used seasoned bread crumbs and they were much much better. Then you drop them into a pan of hot oil. I used a combination of olive oil, canola oil and butter to keep the heat even. Fry them until they are golden brown, then drain them on paper towels and enjoy! They're delish!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYQVVlVy-oTyCXYyylc3MMJ3_n92wFnL5VwHHPBQug8rvu5z2LNVvy1pNNY03jfev3OUdfFUaXoKCkXzfzyV9GecYX3YImf8akHTCxR1ZLaaR31lug9PTQUV95kI8NPwK9rgegvzj_1U/s1600/Pasta+Salad+and+taco+Dip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYQVVlVy-oTyCXYyylc3MMJ3_n92wFnL5VwHHPBQug8rvu5z2LNVvy1pNNY03jfev3OUdfFUaXoKCkXzfzyV9GecYX3YImf8akHTCxR1ZLaaR31lug9PTQUV95kI8NPwK9rgegvzj_1U/s320/Pasta+Salad+and+taco+Dip.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>Here we have pasta salad and taco dip. Both of these are incredibly easy. As you can see, I couldn't really get to taking a picture of the taco dip before the first plate was mostly gone. What? Ana and I were hungry!<br />
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The pasta salad is basically just pasta with a light Italian dressing, Genoa salami, Parmesan, provolone, and whatever veggies you have around the house. Carrots, onions, and peppers are my favorites. Toss it all together just before you are ready to serve, or the pasta will absorb all of the dressing and it won't taste quite right.<br />
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The taco dip is equally as easy. The nice thing is that this is so easy to make healthier. All you need is one 12oz. container of sour cream, one 8 oz. block of cream cheese, seasoning and toppings. If you make the sour cream and cream cheese light, or low fat, or reduced fat, or whatever you are comfortable with, it will still taste just as delish. Basically the sour cream and cream cheese are for the texture. You can season it up so that it won't taste any different, and everybody ALWAYS loves this! My friend Davine from high school stopped by for the trunk show and immediately asked if I had made the dip that she remembered from my high school graduation party... nearly 10 years ago! She said she had a dream about it the night before! So this is powerful stuff... use with caution :)<br />
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So combine the sour cream and cream cheese. You can either add a package of taco seasoning to it, or you can make your own seasoning with:<br />
<br />
Chili Powder<br />
Onion Powder<br />
Garlic Powder<br />
Cumin<br />
Oregano<br />
Paprika<br />
Salt<br />
Pepper<br />
<br />
I didn't have chili powder on hand, but I had adobo (which is kind of a smokey seasoning like chili powder), and so I used that instead. If you like things a bit spicier you can add more cumin. But basically I do this to taste whether I use a packet or loose spices. After you mix this together, spread it onto a dish or into a large pan (it makes a surprising amount. I had enough for 3 servings on a regular dinner plate). Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, salsa, black beans, olives, whatever you like. I've seen it topped with seasoned ground beef for a heartier appetizer. Your call!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJACglD8lce_c4HG3kOR7ZQr1XFoSbV5vG39TGiDKEEW01QrN364aecnSe3uG-EyD1bNfLghP0KqN27IppMsFYGjYijxPhahNV7A1zmg2RPeOrGV1bEAR5ye9boli166bM0Wd3Bqz4-Y/s1600/Sopapilla+and+Crab+Rangoons.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJACglD8lce_c4HG3kOR7ZQr1XFoSbV5vG39TGiDKEEW01QrN364aecnSe3uG-EyD1bNfLghP0KqN27IppMsFYGjYijxPhahNV7A1zmg2RPeOrGV1bEAR5ye9boli166bM0Wd3Bqz4-Y/s320/Sopapilla+and+Crab+Rangoons.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>Here we have Crab Rangoons and Sopapilla. As you can see, I had a tough time keeping up with the Crab Rangoons too! But the recipe makes quite a bit.<br />
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I used about one and a half blocks (about 12 oz.) of cream cheese, and imitation crab for these. I don't prefer imitation crab. The real stuff is so good! But my local grocery store didn't have real crab on hand, and the recipe actually called for imitation. Generally speaking I like to follow the recipe the way it's written the first time, and make changes after that. So I went for it. Combine the crab and cream cheese with some garlic salt and chopped green onions into a thick mixture. The tough find was wonton wrappers. If you have a local Asian market you should be OK. But I was not running down to Chinatown to try to find these puppies. Oddly, I found them at Wholefoods. I got almost 50 of them in a package for less than 3 dollars which very nearly turned me on to shopping there. But not quite. Anyway, using a little water, you dampen the edges around each wonton and put about 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of the crab mixture into the middle. Fold the corners in to the middle to make a pocket (like above), or pull the middle of each side of the wonton into the middle to make it a little more traditional looking. You can also fold them in half. Place them on a baking sheet that has been sprayed with Pam or something similar. Cook until they are golden brown, and enjoy! They were fantastic. I'll make them again. Hopefully with real crab meat even though the imitation tasted pretty good.<br />
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The Sopapilla is a new discovery for me. And I am officially obsessed. And it's unbelievably easy to make which makes it a little bit dangerous... <br />
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3 cans of Pillsbury buttered crescent rolls<br />
2 8oz. packages of cream cheese (again, I used a light or reduced fat)<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 tsp. vanilla<br />
1/4 cup melted butter (I actually didn't need this much)<br />
Cinnamon Sugar<br />
<br />
So basically this is what you do. Take one and a half cans of the crescent rolls and roll them out on an ungreased cookie sheet. <br />
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Combine the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla (make sure the cream cheese is room temperature or you'll lose your ever loving mind trying to mix this) and spread evenly over the rolled out crescent rolls. Then roll out and place the last 1 and a half cans of crescent rolls on top of the cream cheese mixture. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle a generous amount of Cinnamon sugar onto the top. This bakes for about 20-30 minutes at 350 degrees.<br />
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Now, that all sounds pretty good, huh? There are a couple of things that didn't make it that were originally on the menu. First was the wrapped pizza roll. This will probably make an appearance at some point. But the pizza place I stopped by wouldn't sell me raw pizza dough, and my local place was closed and I didn't have time to get the dough before the day of the event. This was a blessing in disguise because OMG SO MUCH FOOD! I would have died. <br />
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The second was... well... just look....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiL8CHs1EJxwx1ekTvLmUepeVaxtYNiwWTTj8Mz4GFqk84AAxj4DLjKS1F0sDz2j615vo6FH7FjZ0hXpIEKnc-j8uS9uWl1OBs8UuW-MLVCd6hC25ucJpBr2Y0dqlwsyzu5YzOhH2zkzs/s1600/Brie+Brains.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiL8CHs1EJxwx1ekTvLmUepeVaxtYNiwWTTj8Mz4GFqk84AAxj4DLjKS1F0sDz2j615vo6FH7FjZ0hXpIEKnc-j8uS9uWl1OBs8UuW-MLVCd6hC25ucJpBr2Y0dqlwsyzu5YzOhH2zkzs/s320/Brie+Brains.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those are Brie Brains.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> So basically, this was the most expensive thing on the menu. It is baked brie. Or. Sort of baked brie. It's a round of brie with the rind cut off. Then you spread out puff pastry, spread jam (I used raspberry) to within an inch of the <strike>life</strike> edge of the puff pastry. Place the brie in the middle, and wrap the puff pastry around the brie. Place the brie on a Pam'd baking sheet with the seams of the puff pastry down. Bake for about 20 minutes (until golden brown) at about 425 degrees.<br />
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It should come out with the brie all melty and delish inside of a flaky puff pastry with just a hint of sweet from the jam.<br />
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MINE on the other hand caught fire.<br />
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Twice.<br />
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One one hand, my fault. It's PUFF pastry. Like it puffs up? Like toward the heat source of the toaster oven.<br />
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On the other hand... I WAS BAKING WITH A FREAKING TOASTER OVEN PEOPLE. What the crap. Apparently my oven does not get above 100 degrees at the moment (which means that I could more effectively cook outside today. Blah.) and so I had no choice but to bake my crab rangoons and the sopapilla and the baked brie in the toaster oven. The rest came out OK. But this just didn't work. So sad.<br />
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Anyway, the party went well (don't forget to check out <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/anatownsend">Ana's site!</a>) and we all went out afterwards. I definitely won a free happy hour that is happening tonight (yay!), and very nearly decked two very annoying girls that were better suited to be performing at Cheetah's in Times Square than patrons at Brother Jimmy's. But it was great to get out. And Gia was in town for the party which was nice to finally have her around!<br />
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Sunday, Gia and I went to brunch (thanks to Terri!) and then Gia went home. I basically relaxed the rest of the day.<br />
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That week I was on my way to the gym. I stepped outside and found this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcjDaV8hkwlb2YcEgrE0SAtWAQrWRmb31tDQhpb79niOkm1q68qXz-_mhMawOXXAZDJG2ymD6w7I_oKxRi7gwVdSfDdXjDFIdNv_BK5tGNYs3SkcLN4S1q99i7RCo_Jg12P5Yr3_oIqxo/s1600/fire+1+smoke+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcjDaV8hkwlb2YcEgrE0SAtWAQrWRmb31tDQhpb79niOkm1q68qXz-_mhMawOXXAZDJG2ymD6w7I_oKxRi7gwVdSfDdXjDFIdNv_BK5tGNYs3SkcLN4S1q99i7RCo_Jg12P5Yr3_oIqxo/s320/fire+1+smoke+4.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
which grew into this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMki8DVc6ND90NkGTdRduA_FWF9AkyjYZUf6qCFgrMbcM6xu3zE4aa1bTW1fj95Xp12Qans6JH3jtZMiptA4VxjZWKINLFphKGic4TVyN5PzNWjbZ6a7TCr8dKz48bZ_HPzjJ-IGz3Vbo/s1600/Fire+1+smoke+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMki8DVc6ND90NkGTdRduA_FWF9AkyjYZUf6qCFgrMbcM6xu3zE4aa1bTW1fj95Xp12Qans6JH3jtZMiptA4VxjZWKINLFphKGic4TVyN5PzNWjbZ6a7TCr8dKz48bZ_HPzjJ-IGz3Vbo/s320/Fire+1+smoke+3.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
and this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4tMEAE4BPpop0dmQRHvnj7R5filXygpB5rUCfrbmSNajGWlBa8WP0S6FkQVY6_stWG-ND13f5u5NxyoKqxI6xTg4HW4YTGt8NQtVfbTk5VUrZZdB-RSsy_kouR0AlLUo16ag47AJxGc/s1600/Fire+1+smoke+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4tMEAE4BPpop0dmQRHvnj7R5filXygpB5rUCfrbmSNajGWlBa8WP0S6FkQVY6_stWG-ND13f5u5NxyoKqxI6xTg4HW4YTGt8NQtVfbTk5VUrZZdB-RSsy_kouR0AlLUo16ag47AJxGc/s320/Fire+1+smoke+2.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
and then I found the source here:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgui9GaGKr14u7mppgIvVOhgeIOoe2mkfzJtNNyVnjtMUkHggM0LrEvKT_fs5S07DVTe7R0rBcp-DRxuSNPlFEXdejGTUfdZtVHPaz_0Zta6EMKHqhXEUSc8IK15_oLpN78UIvrnL2EeRo/s1600/Fire+1+Fireladder.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgui9GaGKr14u7mppgIvVOhgeIOoe2mkfzJtNNyVnjtMUkHggM0LrEvKT_fs5S07DVTe7R0rBcp-DRxuSNPlFEXdejGTUfdZtVHPaz_0Zta6EMKHqhXEUSc8IK15_oLpN78UIvrnL2EeRo/s320/Fire+1+Fireladder.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div>A local Synagogue was on fire. It turned the entire sky black, and gathered quite a crowd. What I found interesting was that they didn't try to dispel anyone from gawking. But it was intense.<br />
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Wanna hear something ironic?<br />
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After I left the gym, I was walking home and came across this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigch4XY5Hj3I58jzGOdIfNfb9V38oC1-ZIKUudwhwd6HYeV1XfoEeoKNb7K-9V0eEfwcIsIIrbq6byYI_DHxl8KLF1wtx7ZE7AWnenboyUO3cnz-QiJ4JFGAh3Td-Vg6sHmg2mz37xyEc/s1600/Fire+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigch4XY5Hj3I58jzGOdIfNfb9V38oC1-ZIKUudwhwd6HYeV1XfoEeoKNb7K-9V0eEfwcIsIIrbq6byYI_DHxl8KLF1wtx7ZE7AWnenboyUO3cnz-QiJ4JFGAh3Td-Vg6sHmg2mz37xyEc/s320/Fire+2.JPG" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div>That smoke in the middle of the background was an underground electrical fire that was popping and basically causing a big ruckus. The firefighters on the left and right side of the photo said that they couldn't even go near it. <br />
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It seemed to calm down a bit after about 10 minutes. I'm not entirely sure what was happening. But apparently the Upper East Side was burning to bits and pieces last Monday!<br />
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Last weekend I went home AGAIN. If you think I'm over it, you should check out my parents. The first couple times I went home it was all unicorns and rainbows! "What do you want for dinner?" "Should we go shopping?" "What do you want to do?" <br />
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This time?<br />
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The novelty has clearly worn off. My mom dropped the car off at the train station the afternoon that I was arriving so I could drive myself home because they had plans to go dancing with friends.<br />
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Ouch.<br />
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I went to a wedding. I didn't take pictures. But I did have a good time. <br />
<br />
oh. CONGRATS DAVE AND LEAH!!<br />
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The wedding was beautiful, I got to see some people I haven't seen in years which was nice. Weddings do weird things to your psyche though. It makes you think you want to get married like NOW. And especially at home, it seems like everybody is thinking marriage by 22 and has done it by 25. All of my friends younger siblings were in serious relationships with people they were probably going to marry. I dreamt about the DJ 3 nights in a row since then. Weird. Super weird.<br />
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So now it's the weekend again. I can't believe I failed to update 2 whole weekends. That's nutty. I apologize. <br />
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This weekend I have good plans! Tonight I will be having my happy hour from 7-8:30 when I will leave and bounce on downtown to Ana's friend's band's concert (that's a lot of 's). Tomorrow I have Salvation Army picking up my box of clothes which means the very last of the cardboard in my house will be GONE! Yay!! That only took 2 months. Then I'm meeting Davine for brunch, and I plan on doing some shopping. I might just lounge at the park with a book to be honest. Sunday might have to be shopping day. I wanted to go to the beach but they are calling for thunderstorms and it looks like everybody has to work. Shopping would be a nice alternative, especially if I get out in the sun at the park on Saturday.<br />
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What are you guys doing? Any major plans???<br />
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I WILL update this early next week... promise!<br />
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And just because I've been missing them so, here's a clip from my faves...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/QmfjTNA0kVU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-14588277160311376632011-07-21T18:22:00.001-04:002011-07-22T10:38:32.366-04:00Casey Anthony is maybe probably pretty guilty perhaps I think...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</div><br />
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And this is why I am never chosen for jury duty.<br />
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That and the fact that I still have a Virginia license and haven't lived there for over 2 years. I should go to the DMV. Ugh.<br />
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OK, so look who's back!! I said I would and I am! YAAAAY for the shoddy blogger!<br />
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I know that this post is literally weeks late. We've already discussed <a href="http://funkytownchronicles.blogspot.com/2011/05/so-this-is-post-i-was-going-to-write.html">here why I am not a journalist.</a> But when it comes to stuff like this, I like to have all of the (or as many) facts as I can possibly get before giving my opinion. I think it's only fair to all those involved.<br />
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A little background on Connie quickly... I went to college and received a degree in Criminal Justice and minored in Political Science. I wanted to be a detective or a lawyer. I didn't pursue the detective position because I was completely uninterested in doing the street cop work first. Can you imagine? I am in no way manly, and those stupid bullet proof vests are cumbersome. Also? Navy is only my color in small doses. Not every day. So I decided to go after the lawyer position. I went to DC to get some experience. I realized that the amount of paperwork you have to do as a lawyer is total crap. Also? Corporate lawyers make way more money than criminal lawyers because it takes so long to get to the point where you can charge clients an arm and a leg for your services. Otherwise you work for the state. Let's not even discuss how little money you make that way. If I'm putting that kind of money towards law school, I want to be crazy rich!<br />
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So I went a different route... event planning! Yay! <br />
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But I digress. This kind of case is still incredibly interesting to me. I love fact searching and interviewing people. I find it all fascinating. And then the game that is the court room with the strategies and rules... I love it! So this Casey Anthony thing was right up my alley.<br />
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My roommate mentioned it to me a while ago, and I sort of blew it off. OK, another crazy mom going off her meds and committing horrible acts against her kids. That's not something I want to spend a lot of time on. Very morbid.<br />
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But then when Casey Anthony was found Not Guilty, and Facebook exploded with outraged followers, I had to check it out. And so I started reading. First I read full interviews of friends and family. Then I looked at pictures from throughout the trial and of the evidence collected. I read short articles from The Globe and got the bare bones of the trial.<br />
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Then I found <a href="http://uhapi.wordpress.com/?s=Casey+Anthony">this blog</a> that linked to a Florida news site. I was able to go through each day of the trial and see how things progressed. I was able to hear how each side was argued and what was expected. I watched 176 videos from the trial including testimony, opening and closing arguments, and some rather hysterical Contempt of Court cases (One guy was sentenced to 6 days in jail and a $600 fine for giving the prosecution the finger.) during the Casey Anthony trial.<br />
<br />
As I read all of this, I got to know a little bit about who Casey Anthony is. On the outside, Casey Anthony is a really pretty girl. <br />
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<img class="rg_hi" data-height="192" data-width="256" height="192" id="rg_hi" 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" style="height: 192px; width: 256px;" width="256" /><br />
<br />
According to everybody she knew, she was holding down a pretty good job at Universal Studios (an Events job that I would probably give anything - except a child's life - to have). She had a beautiful daughter, an active social life, good friends and was doing well enough to pay a nanny to take care of her daughter more often than not. She was a lot of fun, loved to go out and party, drink, dance, all things most 22 year olds love. <br />
<br />
But the more you find out, you realize there was a completely different side to Casey. A side that showed her as not so together. She didn't actually have a job. There is no one named Zanny the nanny. There's no nanny at all. She is a frustrated single mother who just wants to hang out with her friends sometimes. There are tensions between Casey and her mother. There are a LOT of boyfriends. <br />
<br />
Casey craved the attention of men. From what I could tell, she didn't have a best girl friend. And most of the men she was so close to were ex boyfriends. When she got a flat tire, she didn't call her father or brother or even the guy she was currently seeing. She called two ex-boyfriends. She needed to take a shower before work, and so she called an ex-boyfriend to see if she could use his. For the short time Tony, her current love interest at the time, was out of town, she took up flirting and spending time with a new guy that she met. She was very charismatic. People liked Casey. She was fun!<br />
<br />
The evidence in this case is so so confusing. Half the time you think that she is absolutely guilty with no question in your mind. The other half of the time, something doesn't add up and you can't decide if she really did that to her baby girl.<br />
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<img class="rg_hi" data-height="175" data-width="233" height="175" id="rg_hi" 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" 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There are a few things that stood out to me:<br />
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1) Just before Caylee went missing (although unreported) in mid-June, Casey ran into an ex-boyfriend at a night club. This interaction was very different from the interactions with the rest of her ex-boyfriends. Apparently this encounter upset Casey very much, to the point of tears. It is rumored that Casey had a miscarriage with this particular boyfriend a few years prior. It is also unclear who exactly Caylee's father is. There is speculation that she was conceived during a one night stand with a friend who was upset with his girlfriend at the time. I wonder if, perhaps, Caylee was the supposed miscarriage, and the ex boyfriend had found out about her, causing Casey distress?<br />
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2) There is a two week period where Tony was gone, whom she had been staying with. Her friends were also gone on a trip to Puerto Rico at this time. She was able to drive Tony's car or her friend Amy's car around at this time. Friends commented that it was strange how she never wanted to take her car anywhere, instead deciding to drive Tony's while he was out of town. Shortly after this two week period, Casey's car was found abandoned and towed to a local lot. Employees with the towing company noticed the stench coming from Casey's car, as did her father when he picked it up. Her mother couldn't believe Mr. Anthony could stand being in the car even for a short time because the smell was so over powering. However, Casey made a comment to her friend Amy weeks before regarding a smell in her car. She mentioned it sort of out of the blue and didn't know what it was. She thought maybe she had hit something and it was stuck on the car. A few days later when Amy asked Casey if she figured out where the smell was coming from, Casey said that two squirrels had crawled up into the engine and died.<br />
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3) Casey's father had done cop work in years earlier. He said he knew the smell of a decomposing body. And that yes, that's what the car smelled like. He also said that when he picked the car up from the impound lot that he made one of the employees check the trunk with him because he was scared it was either Caylee or Casey dead in the trunk. But there was nothing back there. He didn't report the smell, or the fact that the car had been oddly abandoned. He allowed Cindy (Casey's mother) to spray an entire bottle of Fabreez in the car and trunk as well as remove items from the car (including Caylee's beloved doll that had been left in the back seat which Cindy claimed struck her as odd). There was a lot of speculation about the lack of flies that were in the trunk. Apparently Blow Flies are most commonly seen in conjunction with a decomposing body, or where a body has been. They found maggots in bags of trash that had been in the trunk, and a leg of a Blow Fly, but no Blow flies. The expert witness did say that these flies typically would be trapped within the trunk with the dead body. That they are in there, they feed there, they're stuck there, they die there. There is no escape for them. So how did just 1 leg remain? The expert said that he would expect thousands of these flies in a trunk where a dead body had been, but there were none. Did Cindy vacuum the car clear of these flies when she was Fabreezing? I know that when something smells that badly, I do everything I can think of to get the smell out. Vacuuming definitely is included in that cleaning regimen. Or did Cindy and George know that their granddaughter Caylee had been back there? Were they covering up the fly evidence that George's experience told him would lead investigators to know his daughter had done something to Caylee? <br />
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4) Casey's demeanor in the month when Caylee was "missing" is not... typical I guess would be the correct term. She was happy, partying, excited, animated. She was the same person she always was. Even if you were trying to handle finding your daughter on your own (as she claimed she was)... your daughter is MISSING. She's gone from your life. There's no way you would be able to be that happy. Or willing to party that much. Or lie to that many people day in and day out about the whereabouts of your child. You would have to break down at some point. Some sort of emotion, some sort of behavior would have to be seen by someone, right? After Casey was arrested, and even when she was on the phone with the 911 dispatcher when Cindy first called to report Caylee missing, Casey was calm. She didn't appear sad. She mostly seems annoyed at everyone around her. While in prison, Casey's mother tells her that someone is saying that Caylee drowned in their family pool. Casey's response? She rolls her eyes as she says "Surprise surprise." and that's it. However, that later becomes her defense.<br />
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5) Speaking of her defense, I was completely baffled by the route her defense team took. They claimed that not only had Caylee drowned in the pool at the Anthony home, but that George had held Caylee's lifeless body and helped Casey hide her. They also claimed that George and Lee (Casey's brother) had sexually molested Casey from the time she was 8 years old, and went as far as having Lee tested to see whether he was the father of Caylee. Casey looked angry and shook her head as her father said, under oath, that he knew nothing about Caylee's death, and certainly didn't help to cover it up. <br />
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6) Casey's ex-fiance, Jesse, was a cop. Jesse resigned his position the same day that Casey called to inform him that Caylee was missing. In fact, he says that the phone call from Casey regarding Caylee was the call directly before he called the guard at the back door to the police station that was letting Jesse in to complete his resignation. It is never disclosed why Jesse resigned. It has been my experience with cops that you don't enter or exit that field lightly. It takes a lot of thought and consideration. And most people that become cops have wanted to enter that field for a very long time. If they leave, it's for a good reason. This reason is never disclosed. I find it strange, but I can't pinpoint why. And oddly it's the day that Casey tells him about Caylee. Jesse had known Caylee her whole life. Jesse and Casey had started dating just a month after Casey became pregnant with Caylee, and had eventually proposed. I feel like that alone would be reason enough to remain a cop. To help in any way he could with the investigation. Why resign?<br />
<br />
All of these little facts, combined with the serious lack of physical evidence, is what makes this tough for me. Caylee's remains were found 6 months after she was reported missing in a wooded lot just a half of a mile from the Anthony home. They were merely skeletal remains. They were strewn about the area thanks to animals, and her bones had evidence of animal teeth on them. Around her tiny skull were 3 pieces of duct tape. It was stuck in the hair that was still intact to the skull. One expert says that this tape was placed there after decomposition. Another says that this is how Caylee was killed. But nobody knows. No one actually knows how this little girl died. There is no tissue to test for chemicals. No lungs to check for water suggesting she drowned. There is no damage to her bones or skull suggesting she was beaten in any way that would have killed her. <br />
<br />
This is what I believe.<br />
<br />
I believe that Caylee died at the hands of someone she knew.<br />
<br />
I believe that Casey knows when Caylee died, and how.<br />
<br />
I believe that Casey covered this up for someone for some reason.<br />
<br />
I believe that George and Cindy know what happened.<br />
<br />
I believe that George and Cindy are covering this up for some reason.<br />
<br />
I believe that Casey is not the person who killed her daughter.<br />
<br />
I believe that Casey is a liar, and a neglectful parent.<br />
<br />
<br />
This is what I don't know.<br />
<br />
I don't know how Caylee died.<br />
<br />
I don't know who killed her.<br />
<br />
I don't know how long her body was in the car, or by her play house in the back yard, or in the wooded area.<br />
<br />
I don't know if Casey was sexually abused by her family.<br />
<br />
<br />
What I do know is that the reality of all of these unknowns will go to the grave with Casey. The truth will never be found out. Casey is walking free even after lying to investigators, allowing her child to go missing for a month, and for probably having some part in her murder. I know that Casey is probably the most hated woman in America right now. <br />
<br />
Post-trial, these are the things I've heard. Nobody (at least publicly) knows where Casey is staying at the moment. Nobody knows her future plans. She has mentioned that she's interested in having more children. <br />
<br />
How do you move on from a trial like this? You were found not-guilty (by a jury that cried over the verdict simply because they didn't have the proof to vote the way their hearts and heads told them to), but you know the general public literally thinks you got away with murder of a child. YOUR child. How do you get a job? Would you want to be faced with a resume with the name Casey M. Anthony at the top for a position available in your office? Where do you live? All of your friends have testified against you. Your family is practically being run out of the home you grew up in by angry neighbors. What kind of life do you have now? <br />
<br />
I will say that I can't imagine being on that jury. And what made it even more difficult was that Casey never did testify. Even if Casey got up on the stand and just told lie after lie, I think it would have been worth something to see how she twists things. To see her demeanor. To see her reactions. Were they alligator tears in the courtroom? Was she really sickened at the sight of her daughter's remains? <br />
<br />
There are so many questions that are going unanswered. But do I think Casey is guilty? Yes. Of First Degree Murder? Probably not. Of conspiracy? Of aggravated manslaughter? Yes. But we live in a country of innocent until proven guilty, and reasonable doubt. And normally I would argue that those are good principles to live by. <br />
<br />
But in this case? It seems cruelly unfair.<br />
<br />
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8oJVZfaPEkDlzgD7phYabIytbDDZjXows8/Jkb7RqnDjPCT4yfkgtf7PsuKfs3tdEzAfEkbeasYoMpjMBLrq8B2GOXJE3ZCcUuEeZX36LeKfYVId+CpifJypepaLVtn8Nam5h8Rg+R5r3erbGQ4YPVD6hb07lvsbmmHTsYz5tO7SgcRiyNdnggfiFKwKw9s+w77KpLZfSdJa7mIyWu8VXWJ+FV2BklfRM0ZXNwVukVqoJCtvlCPY17K0qZr8dYgMYHVDP73AJDR5mFJp1F2o3pfVMMJL6h5MpsE8I6YEIK0pQ3MZ38kwsdWZQpVqbB3qoDeLo2e8PySMmJyXAcMyi2gHVHtNV7mCGEmG7d0Yb8gFLomqmm7hO3JAurhc8OQk6nTRlD5fQ7TaiSlUvZ6PbubUCHu9LG7Ug0XViwhrvRWqldBzV5+Spm4lYngjCxMX0RK0o4DpnkIWQuvZroMWqZ5oPyrf2c7NOqw94IadgN3IPsb2WNzUL3f5TN/9x5NC9p0jSmtAxEDuiNgi2WLnl2iKw7EtEAjJ6bN+5R50SnSmBsMk7ydoVkHdHzSi4Be+JwO+/8A/I/vomxiukUpzb5YJS0IZLjB5R1jYlI9a0viPDUAcBIbI+OVbqJcSHcLWjPDLhPQmOqB19gcG7Ag8uYI3+KLO/koHTtrIefN0JjXw3iZOxadj5Jmx15R9wtqt8+F3ryTOtZ8Q8Qi7WmdlkNm6uBK3tZde77B0+al9vqFXZgZPMkYVmp0USxsIdwbK3p/YoucKl1UNQjIb+6rQSGtDWgADAAW2ren2wqvMu4eE45En7JuKDyuitmzLFG2D2Vp7WrwuwBJz4Kwi0pUxIaDHXOUGbJ7KgeXNImcTOcc1NxcTy3ecyfBa0MShFKJjZM0srbaBLq6L3wQBHIDfzTG2tyW4wgbSjLnOI5n6pzaOx4BFLoCJE3TMy4yhqxDn8IAgY80Xd3hAhu5wFDa20DxShnAPVopZqtv3Z5jITe9dwkH4oe+DXU3eIP0U1ZNinV7EXdm9h94tIB6OAwV4EQWkg7gkHzBgr6Ftu6Y5EA/D/teLduNL9jdPcPde5xHgZyPmEyLohVdCdhXQUVJy6aVZjLgBrk2eKIBx6qEFw3HwP3RK5IUuNkqS+x3bVAR4fMKSpT5jZDcHMYP97qRlScHB+RUrqmC1zaGtNgewH+5TPSL0t7pOyS2NSJb6o63mV5zVY/HNo9Bpsm+CZYv1lYlor+axUy1Z58Fi7p0yTDQSTsArFovYm5dUp1HMAYHAulzQ6ARPd3WwjJbo9I7KacKdGlSiOFoc/xc7qrXRq58EuYWsaY3JDR6CFIHE+A+ZVlpFRbWnKTDXVg5xH7oyfNR0KQ4OL8b5Pk3b6fNb4eGkYWyY4GjIDSfnCKKESTfQJe0AXyTEiSOQOzY6E5Q2p2scLhnkt3d04PaWDLiJMTgmMHlhGupGCXOkdT0PVdlhuhR2OezJbE7aaJpUlrh5gF0dApqTxtz8VkSxTiraN2GfHLhMkYpWBcBq74oVdoc2dVKoaorOwe8uc0tAmdzvEyFC6mHuAOxIHjzE+m/ondra+zbAcTJE4gf9LW0uFQW99sx9ZleR7I9I1dl0STyG2yIoUodJ6R8gt1GS0+X5IkxAd4E/JWmypGdRo1bUQGtxk5+Kkr1eWwCjoVdvBoUIBqGOXMoGCjqhRL3cR9EQ90HCla5oHCCELXnpg80DsN0jurSDhn+yg6drLDPKR8EaHw0AkA4hch0tIGTJB+P2UxkyGxKW99s7cJ+e30XnH6TqE0uKI4axA8ZwV6Hq+phlcNOYImOQA/5VA/ShV/9RpH71Ux9UymuTou2eZsdBU0odxnKkD0UZVwMaCGlbUTXKRpVmMhLRkLIlSi3PRZ+rnolf1OH/mvyiz/SajvZL8M1QqwRO459U9p1mhvFv5JC6mpLO44XCcgZVbUYI6iO6DsbiyT08tmRNf8AY6bb1HZ4y2eUDCxEMuARIKxY7hJcbTS8kfuUvSbssr0nASQ5uOuYhe46PSD2HHD+YXgFKoQQRuDI8wvX+yPa9lalw7VNnNG5PVvgtjFUk4mVqYtJND/UGFpkHEmPHAWqWqRCYsAe0HEQMcx/yhdStob3G4nJA2U3zRTsY0rn2lHiRFWnLpB/dHzJKB0Zw4OHkt07qHvb+EwPgPujCTdqg+s2AABiD88BAMMtqmoOFrQ3hDT7xPFE+GEwnHiVBd6YHQ0ucAcuDSBMbcj1KmLaYqasCsNdfxBjGCDiADKIvrWar8QJ7hEZkTCy5sKdCm5zOLiiB33bn1Qml6sajXseCYAIIwRnmrLisltLgrqU8TpsMbbPa2XAY5z+ShumEsJB+CUVdcqPlvukbAjqMGNk3dpzvZ++/iEcUkR3gDttgyqT0cYSUmXlr5zi4oY6JZ0y2YncfITPijalMgGPD5FA6AwMbwiTmSTzJ3TKs7f0KbLsXBuKMJ9zxJH9JWmOJhvofjlQOqDgH+1w+WPzXbakP8CCUBxntv8AMI6hoRfsgGgcXCPn4pVZVZOdgS7PwXf/AJmnVJAwBjijB8lNN9E7vlD6NGkZzxR6qW3aMzMHbwQ9rUYGCHDxyOqE1TX47tLJOJ5ei6mwUxvUoNMHcKtavrjaFWGwIMHcyeaF/Xq1OTvO4Bz80oupcS5w9DkmdyUry44Ju7LMdPknJKqQPrWvMNaZwZJIM8OBBMeKi1Dgr02UqgY5pktIznYeW6W39BsEAAeiO07Q2ClTrBjn42aTg7e6EOPUeR9DMum8UezzrtJo/wCrV3UwZEAg+BEwlLXK29sL2m6o2jkOGSXAyJ2GeSQu0gn3XAz5o8k4xfLOx45SjdHNrbOfPC0mN/7KZW2nubu3PmPuiPZClTaxv/yP1UOFjanWzyJwjxH9z1Wi+FQw1knzL/CO/YO/D8x91n6s/p8wo+ILHOWea+0K0zR/bVC1/E0AEyC2ZBHn1Sm+oBlRzRPdcQJ3wYVh7Lumsf5D9WpFqn+dV/nd9SvS/C3eKv1PHfG1Wo/8RAK5WLlYtPaYwm4V1SrOYQ5hLSNiDBXJC6DQsc1+z0jsV2mqPaA8y7YHaY/F1Xo9G4a4ATHhzXifZ7ZXbTbt4AAcY6HI+fkmLUx+mf5KuTRt/ND8Fpa00qh5sJweQnkVuq+Ku0yeLzwEluK73c4B3AJE+nJc2F8Q8cWOERk8p6pyywbpSK/hyR5aouVLvROM/Rb9pNTyhA0NUpiJe0b8woG6m3jdDgR4EIrEbWWi50ziZBjq4nkq9pllBqEbPjh8mnB9SUVf6q6rTFNoIaGgvJ/f6MHhjKhe3LM+PopWSS4AeON37OndnWmo1/4TMHckHA8kbcvILpGME+iyvqzeINEyYnoPM8lzd1pa6N8wilbBguzuzqDMbcRhTVqveHiCEqsa+4OCEddPxPSD90A1G3VQJBzxD5rsGQDsRv8AAghA16eC4Tv9VM2qeZ3+q6+QQG9rcFHh5vk+g3S+zoA5jEADJ9VH2lGaRnALmkfMKSyq4Cq6nM4LajR0eBS+ZjWnZt8fiuxRaNhlR06uFqpWWe882qbNKOGKfCILqolldyKuakpbXrpKZYapCbU3Qqw/9IdahTdRp7gkBxzE9B1T7VquCvP2MDqjiROSrmGbjyipmxqfDOrcvrVHVahLnOMkncp1Yt73kEIzGyJsn7+n5peaTkmy3o8a8sY/zgauEjKks7On7zxxZDWNH7zj18BhDsqKehdBshzSWkh0iZa4bOCzWmemcUw+9sKLWzUptDZjiZ+5OxMAY8cpNVsQ0kbxseoOQfgQmNxqlNwE8b4MhsQCRtxYCAq3Bc4uIyTPl4LoKSIcIhvZ6kBVP8p+oVb1R37ap/O76lWbs+79qf5T9Qqxqn+fV/nd9SvRfDX/ALZ4742ks/H2QOsWoWlqWYdC4BYGqS3ty8wE/sNGAyRPn9lhymom5GDZmjEBglNv/N8PutnxK5o6bJ8Ewt9EaSq9pu2PSaVHdo+pVAJJzyGAjmaUmFlZBoA6I3gS2+eAkl7FVLSx0XT9MHROKdGV262Ubn9xlIRsrVaXuuMdDkI227Td79o0jEAjIH5qStbIOtaBOhqJxK+TS459osFldU6jXcLgZziPop6NaWEcxIPoqRVtuEy0kHwU1rrNameTwd+L7q7DVRl2Z2T4fKP0cluq1OF08ipn3EtVaHaVjhDgWnbw8MqelqbSMOB9VZUlLopvBkXoeULrunyj1CC/X+RS6lqQDiCcFS3AESDumxr2JcWDdoanEGPBzxcLh6GCss6+yV6pV9xs85+A/wCUTaGIWXraUuDa0C+QfsrLVWog2VFjq6zTTRqs9K7qoiqtZLLuopSJYl1ar3SqVZu7x8yrVrNXulVOyGSrcOipkfIy4ljKfG4MmOIgTyzjMKMuXBrEGRgjI9ExIDdXKHZ7F1h/qt+L/ssb2NrH/Vb8X/ZJ6/ae529s7+n7Lql2luP4zv6fsijii2Mnr80Va/Yb/wCCK38Vvxf9lsdiK38Vvxf9kvb2kuP4rv6fst/4kuP4rv6fsrC0sCt/qmb+IsXZ7s5UoVS9z2uHCWwC7ckHn5Ktamf21X+d31KkHaO4/iu/p+yBqVi4lxMkmSepKs4oLGqRR1GeWeW6XZviWLjiWJ+4rUMNDaMYVjCxYvN5fqPRR6CKG6b2gW1i5BjWjspGLFiFnBNBduWLFBD7IKiCeFixQSgK4QblixEhgHXCDesWJuPsTkO21DjJ+KcUHnh3PxWli1MfRjZFyLbk/tG+X5ppblYsVDVfUaOl+gOYVurssWKiXgGqUvudlixEjmVfWj3Sq7ZLSxXMf0lKf1BhUD1tYjBYFU94rumsWJ0Oyvk6CGLtYsVxFBmLa0sRAmwtLFiIk//Z" style="height: 194px; width: 259px;" width="259" /></div>Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76671943176606354.post-81755376304256187842011-07-20T14:35:00.000-04:002011-07-20T14:35:40.547-04:00Did you miss me??I know, I know. I didn't even post Weight Loss Wednesday posts. There are a few reasons for this.<br />
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1) There has literally been nothing to report. I am holding steady at -16 pounds. Not gaining, not losing. Just hangin out. I think I might have lost 1/4 pound this week but that could have been because I peed right before I weighed myself. 1/2 pound or more is what gets recorded around here, people! None of that sappy Weight Watchers stuff like "YAY! You lost .00000000000001 pounds this week! Good for you! Keep up the good work, you're doing so well!". Ugh.<br />
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2) I have, quite literally, been running around like a chicken without her head. I'm loosing track of weeks. What day is it? Where am I? What is this?<br />
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So anyway, I'm back. So here's the deal. I'm kind of sick of this plateau. It's not surprising. I knew I would plateau a few times in my weight loss journey. But it's been 4 weeks and I'm over it! I have started drinking a TON of water which is supposed to help boost your metabolism as well as flush your system of toxins (that for some reason, Diet Coke is just unable to flush. Weird.). <br />
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I started (this week) to improve my gym attendance and activity. Two of the last three gym visits have included much more than just the elliptical. My friend K80 (you know the one...) sent me a 10 week workout program that increases the intensity, as well as gives a balanced work out each day. It's 5 days a week, so it is ambitious. But I think it's great! In an effort to really jump back in the saddle and get moving, I decided to try out this work out. Day one is a program that starts off with a 7 minute cardio warm up, then moves to push ups (on a stability ball but.. HA... no.), sit ups/ crunches on a stability ball, squats, and some arm machines. So... that went... ya know... OK...<br />
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Ugh.<br />
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I made it through the warm up, 20 push ups, 60 sit ups, and 30 squats. And I died. My leg muscles started cramping and I knew that to keep going would be a mistake. I stretched out and walked... verrrrrryyyy slllloooowwwwwllllyyyy home as my cool down. I couldn't walk right for 3 days. I was sort of shocked and appalled by how weak my legs are since I am constantly walking in this city. Whatever.<br />
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But I was not deterred. When I could finally pick my feet more than one inch up off the ground, I went in and did an elliptical work out. Just to get the muscles going again. <br />
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Then I went home for the weekend. So not much in the way of working out over the weekend. But that's OK! Last night, Tuesday, I went back to the gym. I got myself into the weight room. I did some shoulder and chest presses, some vertical rows, some leg press, and then did 30 minutes on the elliptical. What can I say? I like the elliptical! I thought I'd be more sore than I am, but apparently I have more upper body strength than I was aware. I will tell you that I worked my arms to exhaustion so... I'm glad I'm not sore!<br />
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So the plan is to keep up with the water and the gym. I will probably need to work my way up to be able to successfully complete the 10 week circuit but I'm working on it!<br />
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But that doesn't feel like enough. So I went ahead and did some research and checked out some websites. <a href="http://health.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474978257818">This one</a> sounded most like me. Like, each bullet point I could pretty well relate to. But I found the article a bit frustrating. Since it basically said "Hey stupid, stop eat big plates of bad stuff and get your butt back in the gym".<br />
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Yes.<br />
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Thank you.<br />
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Helpful.<br />
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Moving on.<br />
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<a href="http://www.oprah.com/health/Weight-Loss-Advice-Fitness-Plateau-Dr-Katz">This</a> article was much more informative about BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) and why you reach plateaus. Basically, you've lost weight which means your body is burning less, which means even if you are cutting out extra calories to lose that weight, you have reached an equilibrium within your body. You have to throw off that equilibrium to start losing weight again. Muscle building is definitely helpful (Yay! Point for Connie for doing the right thing!), so working out with light weights can help your body to burn more calories. <br />
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It also suggests upping your protein intake, but not to overdo it. No more than 20% of your daily calories should be from protein. If I look back at the last week, my protein has gone from 16% of my daily calories up to 24.59% of my daily calories. So I should start watching that I hover at 20% or below in coming weeks. Just to make sure those extra calories aren't turning into fats or something else they shouldn't. <br />
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Shaking it up is also known to help keep your body thrown off. Apparently the trick is to actually fool your body, which is tough. Because... ya know... your brain, inside your body, is trying to trick your body from the inside... it's like some crazy double agent sci-fi stuff that is way to complex and this is probably where black holes are created. So, I guess just don't think too much and try to keep changing up your schedule and work out and what you consume.<br />
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From there the articles seemed to get a little repetitive. Yes, thank you, I realize that I should decrease calorie consumption and portion size and I should get my ass to the gym regularly and lift light weights. On one hand, I'm tired of hearing it because YES I KNOW I SHOULD WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM WHY ARE YOU BADGERING ME ABOUT IT?!<br />
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On the other hand... "ooooh... you mean MORE of the less calories and smaller portion sizes and gym. oooooooooh..."<br />
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So since I eat breakfast at the office in the mornings and I know for a fact that I am eating more than 1 cup (or less) of cereal and I have no idea how to calculate the amount of milk I put on that cereal (I dunno? Enough to saturate it? How much do we think that is?) I am going to bring a measuring cup into the office to make sure I only have the serving size. I will keep up with my gym stuff. I will fight and claw my way off this plateau. You know, if this was a REAL plateau, getting off of it would be much easier. I'd just jump, you know? And then I'd be lower? That's a terrible metaphor. It should be more like "I'm experiencing a weight loss swinging net trap. I wanna get down, but this stupid thing won't let me!"<br />
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So there's that. We're just hanging out over here on -16 pounds. Which is awesome, but I was hoping to be 9 pounds lighter within 2 weeks. So I need to get this program up and running STAT. If I can get to -20 pounds I will be quite proud of myself. <br />
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Speaking of 2 weeks, that's when I am heading to Florida with the family! I have to go get new bathing suits because the 2 that I have that I LOVE LOVE LOVE... um... don't fit me anymore? So that's an exciting shopping expedition. Oooooh, I'm gonna head on over to Victoria's Secret now to see what their bathing suit options are. Could be exciting! And on SALE!<br />
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See you tomorrow (I SWEAR) when I share with you my (very very tardy) opinions on the Casey Anthony trial. :)Little Bitty Onehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00931485686268398646noreply@blogger.com0