Stop me if you've heard this one....

Holy Shit...it's August

2011-08-19T12:33:00.002-05:00

Yep...enough said.

Nothing much has happened since my last post :)

acid

2010-10-14T20:04:00.004-05:00

I realize it's been a while since I've graced you with a real post. It's not like I don't have a lot to say...or a lot going on...I think it's really just the result of being tired most of the time and not wanting to do much except go to work (which I really don't want to do 95% of the time, truth be told..but who does, right?). Anyway. So besides being tired, pregnant and having horrible swelling, the one thing I was managing to avoid was chronic heartburn...until last week. This now gives me the opportunity to tell you about my antacid ratings...now that I've tried so many of them. Maybe you'll find this useful.

#4 - Tums

I used to think Tums were fine...until I had to take them on a regular basis. And while they do the trick in a pinch, I think they are gritty and the taste isn't that good (yes..I realize they're not life savers!!!)

#3 Maalox

This used to be higher on my list, but then of course I tried more antacids and so had more experiences to use for my rating system. Maalox tastes better than Tums, but still gritty...and a not so nice aftertaste.

#2 Tums Smoothies

Tums makes a comeback in the #2 position. The smoothies are way not so gritty..I guess that's why they're smooth...and don't have a gross aftertaste. These used to be in the #1 position because I couldn't find the #1 brand...but now that I can...these have to take a backseat to.....

#1 Rolaids!!!

Love Rolaids. The flavor is good, the texture is good...and they work fast! My favorite by far are the cherry...but the tropical ones are good too. These were really hard to come by early in my pregnancy...so good thing I had a few already...and the company who makes them - who was dealing with a recall- made sure to get them on the shelf again! Thank goodness for Rolaids...or as I like to call them...my 3 a.m. snack.

So there you have it...my rating for antacids....hope this helps you through your future heartburn attacks.

Oh..and all have calcium :)

Seriously? Again?

2010-10-10T19:47:00.003-05:00

It's like this is already being taken over by childish things...sorry...couldn't resist.

TrueMud

2010-09-24T17:52:00.000-05:00

This is why I love Sesame Street

We're back...and we're tanned...

2010-09-22T22:17:00.002-05:00

We are back from our vacation...and now I need a vacation to recover! We've been sleeping way too late in the morning which is mildly interfering with getting to work...and we're both wiped out by the time we get home. Hopefully we'll snap out of it soon. I am sure that for me, the baby that is growing isn't helping with the fatigue...or the swelling....

anyhoo....I'll try to post some photo's soon....

Cheese and Boats

2010-09-09T21:09:00.007-05:00

There's definitely a once a month theme going on here...and it's totally not intentional.

This past weekend my parents came into the city - we went for Fondue and on the Architecture Tour to celebrate their birthdays.

Please note that I am the only one who took pictures...which is why I am not in any of them.

We made fondue at home last New Years - I think it was New Years....this is the pot at the Melting Pot...

And this was ours at New Years....

Let me say that the cheese was maybe equally as good...but the meat we did at home...well...it sucked..and chocolate is chocolate :)

Anyway...so back to September Fondue... Paul was happy because I am not eating meat really so he got to enjoy a double helping of meat... Doesn't he just look happy??? He must of been because he normally doesn't let me take his picture!

Then on Sunday we went on the Architecture Tour. At least the weather was nice and we didn't die of sun and heat exposure during the boat tour :) That's all I have to say about that! I even had to wear a sweater for part of it (clearly I had more to say...)

So we had a nice weekend. This coming weekend we're leaving on vacation....to Puerto Vallarta...where I am ok with the sun...and hopefully don't need to wear a sweater!!!!

See you when we get back...there will be pictures....but I won't be in them :)

garlic

2010-08-09T14:02:00.004-05:00

I am horribly unmotivated today...and am distracted because one of my dear co-workers was eating something for lunch that smelled super garlicky...which probably wasn't very garlicky at all..but with my Super Spidey Sniffer these days, I may have well been bathing in it. Anyway..so now I am sitting at work...thinking of how I am going to have garlic bread for dinner...with mozzarella cheese...and marinara sauce...and how my stomach is going to hate me for it.

But on the plus side...won't have to worry about any vampires.

We almost made it...

2010-08-04T20:59:00.003-05:00

..to another month between posts. Well...I am sure you all know by now that I have been so exhausted lately...and have the most horribly swollen feet...all because of this.

Now don't get me wrong...I am not complaining...believe me. This is what we worked for 2 years on..and ended up spending thousands of dollars to get...but you'd think that given all that...that someone could just have pity on me and make this easy.

I don't want to get a cramp...

2010-07-05T19:54:00.005-05:00

Clearly I think I must wait 2 months between posts or I'll get a cramp. I realize there is no scientific evidence to back up my thought process...but when is there ever anyway.

Also, since it has been a while...2 months...I though I'd unload some pictures or video to post..maybe something from the Cubs game...or something from our fireworks viewing on the lake. The pictures were ok..which I'll share shortly...but the video...I'm afraid you'd get motion sick if you watched it. Why does it seem like I am moving the camera SSSOOOOO SSLLLLOOOOWWWWLLLYYY...but then when I look at it things are zooming by and I start feeling seasick? I must work on my technique.

So here are a few pictures...I should have used my camera instead of the video camera...but I used what I had :)

And from the Cubs game...we had great seats..and even got them a few days before the game. Bonus...Cubs won.

..see you in 2 months...if not before...because you never know...I may have something to say...even with a cramp...

March 10th

2010-05-01T07:16:00.009-05:00

March 10th??? March-freaking-10th was my last post? Wow...it's like I have become a missing person.

Sadly...nothing exciting to report since MARCH 10TH....so I guess I'll report non-exciting things.

WARNING: This is going to become totally random. If you cannot deal with this format...well..go away...

hmm...we're moving....to another place in the city...but you probably already knew that. We're going in 26 days...and it can't come soon enough because the place we're in now has no air circulation and could easily be mistaken for being a sauna.

Paul bought me one of these little video cameras totally out of the blue...

So far it's kinda fun...but it would be more fun if he'd included a vacation with it :) Anyway, so I've been taking video..mostly of the dog....shocker there. You can also take pictures with it - which I think my normal camera takes way better pictures - but it would be ok in a pinch. Did I tell you its waterproof? I think I must have issues with spilling or something because everything I get these days seems to be water resistant...hmm...

And just for cuteness...here's Izzie...

I've also bought some new shoes lately but haven't taken their picture. Some of you may be disappointed...and for that, I apologize....

I don't know if this is an age thing or what, but I've totally lost all ability to sleep much later than 6:30...and am considering getting rid of my alarm clock if this is the case. Crazy right? I suppose this may be related with the fact that I go to bed by about 10:00 and am getting 8.5 hours of sleep..but seriously...I'd like to sleep past 6:30 on the weekend. Here it is just after 7:30 and I feel like it's been a long day already :)

I guess that's it for now. I have a lot to do today (so maybe it's a good think I am up so early) including picking up my parents at the airport. I know, you're jealous that my life is so exciting....it's ok...

Handsome

2010-03-10T07:32:00.002-06:00

Kate...you made my day with this one...

What's in a name?

2010-03-09T19:07:00.002-06:00

This made me laugh when I saw it on the Today show...and I have continued to mention it here and there because it's just so absurd. What are some parents thinking??

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Hoover wins gold! Hoover wins gold!

2010-02-24T09:42:00.010-06:00

It was an exciting morning at the Olympic games this morning when Julie Hoover hailing from Chicago, Illinois won her first, of what may be several gold medals here today in the Morning Combined. In case you aren't familiar with this sport, its combines false starts out the door with not being able to find your keys - a sport she's been noted as a favorite here in these winter games..heck...the summer games as well.

Lets go to Izzie for the play by play...

"Hi everyone..thanks Bob Costas....it was an exciting morning here...one incredible athlete...2 challenges...first...to get out the door with everything she needs...a feat all on its own. She said bye...gave me kisses...no treat though (I'd just had breakfast) and off she went. I watched the door as I always do...I could hear them talking on the other side...then the key was in and the door was open. Mama's home!!!! Wait..no..that wasn't long enough..the light didn't come on yet...she's looking in her coat...she's going into the other room...looking in her sweatshirt pocket...nope...still not finding it...in her bag again...nope...she looks confused...oh wait...there they are....she found her keys....there she goes...Bye Mama....

She never hesitated..not for a second. That mama...she's a gold metal champion. Back to you in the studio Bob."

And here you have it folks...was there really any doubt? It looks like something she was born to do. Another Olympic dream coming true.

This Olympic moment was brought to you by the letter I, the letter K and the number 2.

I'm feeling very Olympic...

2010-02-23T18:34:00.004-06:00

I hope everyone has been enjoying the Olympics. I think I've said this before...but I am a huge fan of the games...Summer or Winter...there's something about being out there representing your country...and having such a LOVE of a sport that you'd basically devote your life to it. And honestly, sometimes I get teary eyed during a medal ceremony...

So, in spirit of the games, I started thinking about some things I am good at that I'd like to lobby as new Olympic Sports.

1. Grocery Shopping - I can shop with the best of them...I can deal with a cart where none of the wheels go straight...I can shop quickly off a list...and quickly without a list. I don't mind elbowing someone to get the last bagels either...

2. Grilled Cheese making - Paul says I make a restaurant quality grilled cheese sandwich...it's perfectly buttered, crispy and melty....a gold medal performance.

3. Procrastination - Do you know me? Can you really argue here? I would rather do anything other than what I am supposed to be doing. If I am supposed to be cleaning...I'd rather knit...or pet the dog...or anything... and it takes me 5 times as long to do something as it should...because...well...procrastination...

4. Loosing my phone, debit card, and anything else that's supposed to be put away...and then not being able to find it when I am going somewhere...or realizing when I get there that..oops..left it in my pocket from when we went out yesterday...DRAT!

5. Clipping coupons and then never taking them with me. I think there would be lots of competition here.

6. Filling my online cart. I love to shop on line, fill up my cart..and then just close the window. I am the champion!!!! I am the greatest of all time!

7. And last, but not least, napping! I could nap for the United States and win a record number of gold medals. I'd rather nap than just about anything...any time...any place.

So there you go...these are my 7 Olympic sports...who needs ski jump or one of those other sports where they crash and you could break a bone!

Mary had a bicycle

2010-02-22T13:16:00.003-06:00

I don't usually blog from work...mostly because I am doing..well...work...but also because I don't have any pictures...but I've been singing this song all day. I looked for just the song...but the lead up to the song is so great I couldn't resist...

I'd rather...

2010-02-15T15:16:00.008-06:00

..be at home watching the Olympics...and knitting.

I think that the mid-part of winter is really getting to me. I miss the sun - though we do have some days when we get to see it and I miss being outside...let me clarify...I miss being outside without a coat and hat and gloves. I must have forgotten - or conveniently blocked out - this part of living in the Midwest. I think I may also be suffering from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and might need to get one of these...

yep..its a light that you sit in front of for 30 minutes a day. I could bring it to work and sit in front of it for 8 hours..which might make me too happy...and that would likely be frightening. They're like $150 if anyone wants to buy me one :)

Olympics

2010-02-12T18:50:00.001-06:00

I am super excited that the Olympics are starting! There is something about them that totally draws me in...I'll watch more TV in the next 2 weeks than is normal!

sick

2010-02-03T16:16:00.002-06:00

I've been SO sick since Monday night...I actually think I may have thrown up half of my stomach...where does all of this come from?

Anyway, I'll be back once I am feeling more than 70%.....until then...

We're back...

2010-01-31T22:23:00.000-06:00

...I'm tired...

The End

Howdy Partner

2010-01-27T21:04:00.002-06:00

Paul and I are leaving in the morning to go to Texas for a short visit. Not really sure what we have planned....besides Paul's plan to eat his way through San Antonio...and probably make himself sick. Other than that, not a whole lot going on. Maybe I'll have some time to do some reading...and maybe come up with some good ideas for future blog posts. You know, I do that a lot..and then I laugh...and forget what they were. Ya'll are missing out on some seriously funny stuff.

Don't miss me too much.....oh ok...you can miss me all you want.

children

2010-01-22T19:33:00.002-06:00

There is a reason why I shouldn't watch sad things on television....I am watching the Haiti telethon...and though I have already given to several charities...I just feel like it's not enough. And then they show the children and all I want to do is pick them all up and bring them home. It is so very sad.

Please please please please give what ever you can!

the 5 foot zone

2010-01-20T18:17:00.005-06:00

I'd like to declare a five foot zone around me as the "No Bullshit Zone". Maybe I have been extra moody lately, I have a lot on my mind, but it seems like everything..EVERYTHING is annoying me...from every driver on the road who can't stay in their freaking lane to people at work who think I care about what they are trying to tell me. Now don't get me wrong, I do my job..and my immediate co-workers..no problem with them...but its all the OTHER stuff...like stuff people are supposed to do themselves. Why do so many people now claim that they are clueless? it's like I need to hire them a babysitter or something. Or I am supposed to be their babysitter....hmm..I wonder what that pays these days.

So...to sum it all up...

I feel like posting this up at work..or sending it out to people via email..oohh..like my new email signature???

Julie Hoover....shut the fuck up...has a nice ring to it....and wow..that would totally improve my mood!

You're FLYING THROUGH THE AIR

2010-01-19T15:34:00.005-06:00

A friend shared this today...it made me laugh...but also made me appreciate how great things are.

On a side note, I have a cold and I haven't been feeling very well..which means I keep climbing back into bed..when I am home...in case I needed to clarify that I am not climbing into bed at work...but wow...that would be something. Anyway, my house is kind of messy...and my bed hasn't been getting made...

motivation

2010-01-18T16:10:00.003-06:00

I'll admit it...I've been having a really hard time getting motivated lately. It starts first thing in the morning when I don't want to get out of bed...and it ends when I am too lazy to put my ass back in the bed. Maybe I should just stay there and then I'd never have to start or end...and..wait...nope...not a option...NOT AN OPTION!!!!

Ok, so I had the day off today...which started with a 7:10 appointment. Why do I torture myself? Who does that to themselves on a day off? Anyway..once I consumed enough coffee and had enough good company (you know who you are..) I did manage to do the few things I had planned today. I've even got dinner on way earlier than usual. This means we'll be eating at senior citizen hour..again...but ready for bed on time :)

So..motivation...I've been thinking that I really need to start getting some exercise in. They have put a fitness center in our building which should be opening any day now. Honestly..I ask you...how long can it possibly take to put in some treadmills? This better be one super fantastic fancy fitness center where someone does the exercise for you...because blast it's has taken a really long time. (Blast??? ) Regardless, once it does open, I am going to try to use it...mostly because it's free..and I love free stuff. I was going to say I love free shit..but I really don't love shit...even if it's free. I do have a line.... Anyway..my point was that maybe I need to be getting up in the morning and going for a walk before work. There really is no reason that I need to stay in bed until 7..besides lack of motivation..but maybe this will be motivation...right? maybe??

Whew...I think I may have just burned 5 calories....

Exactly!

2010-01-15T22:28:00.003-06:00

I got this from Kate's Blog. How anyone can be so hateful...well it really is beyond comprehension. I think Keith sums it up perfectly. Thank you for posting it.

Oxfam

2010-01-15T18:02:00.007-06:00

I talked about Oxfam a while back during the holidays. They are also on the ground in Haiti...right now...making a difference. Please consider supporting them as the try to help in this mass devastation.

They can be found at http://act.oxfamamerica.org

Please give whatever you can give - even if it's only $5. Every penny counts!!! And if this was happening to you, you'd want someone to come and rescue you. The poorest of poor are waiting and can't make it without you.

help!

2010-01-15T13:49:00.001-06:00

Haircut

2010-01-08T20:27:00.004-06:00

We're in the suburbs this weekend and everyone needs a haircut. Actually, this started just because I have an appointment tomorrow afternoon...and then I told Paul and he said...well it's been a while and I need a haircut. I agree..he's looking a little shaggy. Then I took a good look at Izzie...aka Miss Harry Fuzzball. And she REALLY needs a haircut. So that's it...all of us. I think you'd agree it's time...

I seem to have failed in record time...

2010-01-06T16:13:00.009-06:00

I thought I'd make it until at least the end of January...but nope...I didn't...on January 5th...I have officially already failed on my new years resolutions. I haven't even told you what the rest of them are!!!! Now I bet you are wondering which one it is right? I mean..am I being a sloppy mess at work or did I not make my bed? I'm not going to to tell you yet - this is called building anticipation...oohhh....you so want to know....I know.....

So Resolution 3 is to watch less TV and read and knit more. You might be saying to yourself...now this is one isn't really fair because you don't really watch all that much tv and you knit plenty....and in a way you would be right. But what I am getting at here is that I either need to start turning the TV off...or leaving the room if there is something on that I don't really want to watch. I think we all get sucked into watching something just because it's on...and I seem to be doing this more and more. There are certain shows I have to watch..and I've talked about them here before:

House
Here's the preview for next week in case you're a fan too.

I am in love with this show and could watch reruns 24 hours a day even though I've seen all the episodes eleventy billion times and I have all the seasons on DVD...whew....see..it's a problem.

The Big Bang Theory
One of the best shows on TV..and honestly, I don't know that we can be friends if you don't watch this...

So those are my two favorites that are on all the time. Next summer I'll be happy to welcome back True Blood....LOVE it... and I am a big fan of NCIS and Two and a Half Men...and Fringe...and then Lost will start again really soon..but I really think that's it...those are the shows I'd miss if I didn't see them... But for now, I think what I should do instead of getting sucked into 10 hours of HGTV and yelling at the people trying to buy houses who are SO picky and would buy a house for a closet because they are complete morons...and who need 5 bedrooms and 5000 Sq ft for the huge family of three...ugh..just makes my head spin... maybe I need to walk away, knit more, definitely read more...and remember to make my bed! So there you go...

Resolution 2

2010-01-04T19:20:00.004-06:00

My second resolution is that I will make the bed every day. Should this be hard? Not really...but there are a few obstacles I face.

1. I HATE to get up in the morning. I set my alarm for 45 minutes before my drop-dead-get-up-or-you'll-never-make-it time and I always push it as far as I can. I'd rather just stay in bed...where it's warm. What I am getting at is I don't have time to do one more thing...ok..I do..but I don't want to spend that time making the bed.

2. Does it make reasonable sense to make a bed just to then unmake it and get back in it later? What if I want to take a nap? Seems a little wasteful... BUT there is nothing better than getting into a made bed at night...and not having to sort out all the twisted covers and sheets that are un-tucked...and a cover that isn't tucked in the bottom so the toes get cold. Ok...ok...point taken...not a good excuse.

3. And this is the most serious of all obstacles....

How am I supposed to kick that out of bed????

Resolution 1

2010-01-03T21:27:00.004-06:00

Hey there. I know...a few posts in a row..exciting right? Well I did say that blogging more was going to be one of my resolutions and I don't want to fail until at least January 25th, right?

So...resolutions...I said I would be talking about them, so keeping my promise, here goes.

Resolution 1. Care more about my appearance.

Hmm...a lot can be said about that right? Well let me start by saying that anyone who knows me is aware that I am very casual. I can't even remember the last time I put on a skirt...or a dress...actually, I wore them in the summer, but they were wrinkled most of the time :) What I am really getting at with this one is I need to make sure I start getting up and getting myself ready for work...maybe even some mascara...and maybe dry my hair ( just a little because big hair and hairspray have NEVER been my friend). And seeing as how I only go to work, at most, 3 times a week, I should be able to do this right? I am under no delusion that I am going to be dressed up or fancy...just together.

(Now anyone who doesn't know me has this picture going through their minds)

I am just super casual - nothing wrong with that - but maybe I need to make 10% more effort. On days I stay at home or weekends...you can plan to find me in my t-shirt and jeans...and whether or not I'll have my hair brushed..well...that'll be a toss up...I like to keep things interesting.

Fruitcake

2010-01-03T14:48:00.006-06:00

I think I may be way behind on this lady...but my sister emailed this to me a while back and today I was cleaning out my email box (another of my new years resolutions...which I'll go into more detail on in a future post) and really don't know why I didn't open the email. Well, I probably didn't because I didn't see it or I was on my work computer so I didn't want to open it there. Regardless, I've opened it now...so if you're as behind as me and you haven't seen it either...I give you...The Fruitcake Lady...

update: the the link to the fruitcake lady video is below...while I still think it is funny....I think it's annoying that it plays automagically when you view my blog. This annoys the crap out of me so it must annoy you too...

click for the Fruitcake lady video

2010 Resolutions

2010-01-02T13:27:00.002-06:00

One of my resolutions for this year was to blog more...oops...failed already :)

I've been busy because my parents have been here since 12/31/2009...haha..since last year..and so we've been hanging out..eating...and eating mostly...drinking a little and even Wii Bowling. I have pictures that I'll post later.

Today we're going to see a movie..oh..and go out to eat....sheesh! Glad a diet wasn't one of my resolutions.

Catch you all in a little while.

Tell a friend :: Oxfam America Unwrapped

2009-12-22T12:28:00.001-06:00

Tell a friend :: Oxfam America Unwrapped

I've been thinking a lot about what types of causes I'd like to support in the coming year..and I think this one will be getting my vote - and dollars.

so....very....tired...

2009-12-13T21:46:00.002-06:00

Please remind me never to try to host two events in one weekend. I am, of course, using the word event loosely...but as someone who doesn't normally have people over, this was quite an endeavor.

Friday, I went into the office. I rarely go in on Friday...and by rarely I think I have been in three times since we moved back in May. That threw me off because normally I don't "come home from work" on Fridays because I've been here all day. When I came home, I was tired and felt compelled to lay on the sofa for much of the evening. And I am trying to think what we even ate for dinner but I am at a total loss...the evening is kind of a blur.

Saturday, we got up, went to 3 different grocery stores (looking for something we never did find), came home, cleaned the house and then made dinner for friends who were coming over. It was a little stressful because it was something I have never made before - but a family recipe so it wasn't like I was guinea-pigging anyone too badly..though the recipe had no measurements..but just some advice from my mom that said just put what looks right....ugh! Anyway, but it turned out really good so that made me happy. And thank god for Whole Foods and their fantastic deserts... At 10:30 I was in bed...

This morning, we got up (noticing a trend here...) and my mom, dad and one of my sisters came down to make cookies. IT TOOK ALL DAY! I had forethought to make a dinner in the crock pot and thank god because after spending the whole day baking and washing dishes and then had to make dinner...well...lets just say I would have been on the train to crazy town. Anyway, it was fun...but now all I want to do is crawl in bed...oh look..it's almost 10:00.

I am not conditioned for this!!! This kind of weekend really requires an additional day off...which I fear I will not be getting tomorrow.

Next weekend I plan to sit on my ass and watch TV....eat leftovers...oh..and cookies....

Scandal

2009-12-10T12:40:00.002-06:00

We've been busy here at Chez Hoover...mostly trying to keep dry and warm given the weather nature has dealt us these last few days. Never mind though...it's winter and we had to know it would finally decide to arrive..and it's putting me into the holiday spirit. Not sure how I'll feel about it in January when I am freezing and the holidays are over.

Anyway....

There seems to be some scandal in the news lately about Tiger Woods. I for one think that this maybe shouldn't necessarily be on the nightly news...because with all that is wrong in the world, is this really a story that should trump things like homelessness and hunger? Probably not. But I did see this posting on one of the blogs I read...and...well...read it for yourself.

when did December rear its ugly head??

2009-12-03T19:39:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it's December....when did that happen. What makes it worse is that Christmas is 3 weeks away.

So..now that there is no escaping December, I have a few things that need to get done. The tree is already up..and the decorations and the lights, but now I need to get to the Christmas cards and finish my shopping. I LOVE online shopping!!! There's nothing better then picking up a package at the mail box...and knowing you didn't have to schlep around a shopping bag!

Joy Someone

2009-11-17T09:37:00.002-06:00

If you really know me, you know I go through times when I am super addicted to the lottery...well these commercials make me want to go out and buy some tickets :)

Sound of Music

2009-11-17T09:32:00.002-06:00

It's not that often that we find things that just make us smile. I hope this brightens your day.

I love trash

2009-11-07T21:55:00.002-06:00

No Grouch here today...though I may head to bed singing "I love trash...."

I should have sung that when I was emptying the garbage earlier...next time...

short post

2009-11-07T13:39:00.002-06:00

It is definitely a beautiful day in the neighborhood! The house is clean and we still have 1 1/2 days left in the weekend. I'd say all in all, things are going pretty well. I'd better enjoy it while I can.

That's all I have to say :)

Happy 40th Anniversary

2009-11-06T22:15:00.006-06:00

I have always loved Sesame Street.

I loved it as a kid, loved singing along with my Sesame Street cassettes - Doing the Pigeon, Rubber Ducky, I can only sing the high part..it's the only part I know... I LOVE all of it.

In honor of their 40th Anniversary, Google is doing logos for them..have you see any of them??

How great are those! To think that I can still sing the Lady Bug Picnic... I hope some day my kid loves it just as much.

healthcare

2009-10-27T20:27:00.004-05:00

Organizing for America has held a contest where people submit 30 second commercials for health care - and the winner will have their submission shown on television. NO...don't start thinking that I submitted one...I am SO not that kind of talented. Now they've got the list down to 20 and I thought I'd share some of my favorites. Some of them are funny, some show just how downright absurd some people are in the way they think.

You can find all of them here...watch them..and then vote.

Here were some of my favorites.

These first 2 make me think...

These two are the absurd...

Regardless..they all should make you think.

Skinny but tough

2009-10-27T12:03:00.003-05:00

Did you see this short article in Reuters?

http://blogs.reuters.com/frontrow/2009/10/26/obama-skinny-but-tough/

It's amazing how much Obama can take. He's doing the best he can, as fast as he can, with what people will give him. It's time to cut the shit and get it all done!!!

He is tough...can't wait to see what he accomplishes...and then some will be eating crow...

Here comes the sun...

2009-10-23T22:46:00.001-05:00

I am off in the morning to visit Jill in California. We have some fun things planned which include knitting, music and food. I know you're jealous.

As promised...

2009-10-21T19:13:00.007-05:00

...here's a post. We're back from our vacation and Paul started his new job today...so it's been a big week in our world.

So..lets start with the job. Paul started his job at Northwestern. Don't ask me to explain what he's going to be doing because I seriously don't get it...it's like listening to the adults in Charlie Brown..wa wa wa...he can tell me 10..no 20 times...and nope..nothing. It is a great opportunity for him..and a great University...so I am sure it will prove to have been worth the wait.

We took a vacation before he started because it will probably be until next Spring or Summer until he can get away for more than a day or two. I, of course, am going to California this weekend...so I can go any time!

Here's what we did....

..seriously...this is what we did for 4 days. Here was our view from the poolside hut that we stayed in...

And the beach.

We had a really nice time.

Now that things are settling..and Paul is back to work...I'll try to blog more. Not that the cause and affect is valid..but I am going to say it is :)

vacation

2009-10-14T21:42:00.001-05:00

Paul and I are off to Mexico in a few house..I SWEAR to blog when I get back!!

MIA

2009-10-06T11:27:00.004-05:00

Seems I've gone missing again. Maybe the issue is that the new fall programs have started and so I've been watching more TV than usual. What ever it is, I should not neglect my blog...that no one reads...

I am currently in LOVE with this commercial..which probably has way more to do with my love of dogs than my need for insurance! I also didn't realize till I looked it up that the version they show on television is the short version.

In other news, we're going on vacation - I am actually going to visit Jill as well - and Paul got a job...but I'll save that for tomorrow...

Dirty

2009-09-29T22:22:00.002-05:00

I haven't blogged in a few days..and I feel horrible. I'll try to do better..I even have a few pictures of what we did over he weekend..and none of them are of the dog. I'll get those up tomorrow.

In the meantime, have you seen this...it's amusing...

Tricia's blog

2009-09-23T14:29:00.003-05:00

For some added laughs...some four letter words..and other randomness..check out Tricia's blog.. She lives in Vegas! I'm so jealous...but if you know me, I'd be so broke because of my slot machine obsession...

Besides..she's having a contest and I SO, SO want the food scale...

Insurance

2009-09-23T11:54:00.002-05:00

Have you seen this?

Protect Insurance Companies PSA from Will Ferrell

Gavin plays the least inappropriate of inappropriate games and other adventures in driving

2009-09-19T20:52:00.015-05:00

Saturday...Love me some Saturday. I was able to stay in my pajamas till noon...then we went to Dave & Busters with Lindsay, Gavin and Keith.

So...before any games were played, we all had lunch. It was really nice and everyone walked away with a game card...

The first game Gav played...had a sign on it saying "graphic life like violence"...hmm...maybe we should have have someone more responsible with us.

...in our defense, it was just a Rambo game...and the one next to us was something like Dawn of Dead 4 and had nasty zombies...so I think we let him play the least inappropriate inappropriate game. Yay for us!

So then I talked him into driving the Big Rig.

Look at that steering wheel!!! Holy smokes it was big! And honestly, I think Gav may be a better driver than a lot of people on the roads today. If I was in an emergency and couldn't drive..and no one else was around... and his legs were a bit longer... I'd consider having him drive me to where I needed to go.

So we did the shoot 'em up..and the big rig...next was the Harley's...of course!!!

Paul and Gav got some serious driving in on these Hogs!!!

So there was driving..and then there was ski-ball..and various other games. We managed to rake up 725 tickets...so Gav got a Tootsie Roll Bank, a fart noise key chain (with 6 life-like fart noises) and a tie..

I think this will be great for a "wear something green" day for school...Lin and I both agreed, though, that this reminded us of Fred Flintstone!

All of this lead up to the grand finale...Ice cream!!

I think we had a pretty good afternoon.

Luckily...we don't have much planned for tomorrow...maybe I'll get to stay in my pajamas till noon again...

red

2009-09-18T11:02:00.001-05:00

Maybe you've noticed the red links on my blog. In case you don't know what that's about...or are not sure, here you go.

buy red when you can...it makes a difference in so many lives.

Thoughts from the Avenue

2009-09-17T08:43:00.011-05:00

So when I got to work this morning, I jotted down a few thoughts I'd had on my walk in. For those of you who don't realize, I have decided that I am no longer taking the bus. I go into the office 3 days a week and on those 3 days I can walk the 4 miles (round trip). It'll be good for me and is part of my September 16th, 2009 resolutions. This is the thing about walking...there's loads of time to think and reflect and get inspired...and make resolutions. Here are some of the thoughts...

So here we go.

1. I love dogs.
I think I may love dogs more than people. I never see a dog and think anything negative about them. I may think something negative about the owner - like the one who was letting his dog pee on the grass...when there was clearly a "No Dogs on Grass" sign. Actually the dog was peeing ON the sign..and I am 95% sure that dogs can't read..so it's his owners responsibility...so whether or not you agree with the No Dogs thing..well that's another conversation. Wait...where was I?...oh right...so dogs..they totally make me smile. I think I would have a whole heard of dogs if I could. Maybe this is because I personally have a totally cool dog.

I'd definitely need a yard though.with a fence...yeah...for sure.

2. I am going to get hit by a bicycle sooner or later
Those bikers are crazy and I think one of these days, I am going to step on inch to the right or left while I am walking..which isn't a stretch because I cannot walk in a straight line...and BAM!! I'm hit. And they'll have to call the ambulance which will be SO embarassing..and there will be people standing around...ugh..I wonder how many days till it really happens? Anyone want to take bets?

3. When walking, scenery helps.
It helps that I am not in a whole world of concrete buildings...but I am walking along the park and it's really pretty. I'll be happy when the colors start to change.

4. People are wearing coats already?
Yep..it's true. I am seeing people in coats and jackets already. If I had on a jacket..or even a long sleeve shirt..it would be stuck to me due to the massive amount of sweat I produce while moving. If I had a jacket on I would probably burst into flames right there on Michigan Avenue and the fire department would have to come. I just do not understand this. If you need a coat in September, when it's like 70 outside, please make an appointment to see a doctor....or a head shrinker..which ever...

So that's what I was thinking about this morning on the way to work. I wish I had pictures...mostly of the park..and not of me being hit by a bicycle..or kicking the ass of someone in a coat and scarf...

Beautiful Day

2009-09-16T06:57:00.003-05:00

I don't typically have much to say in the morning...but I am trying to take time out during this time of the day, to eat breakfast and get mentally ready for the day. So rather than just sit here, I have my mac with me :) Nothing quite like multitasking and watching the sun come up over Soldier Field.

I am walking to work this morning. I do some of my best thinking and get inspired while walking. Hopefully I'll find some of that today because I have a lot floating around in my head.

See you all later. I still have videos to post! But will post this for a laugh..

I can't believe I have to wait till next June :(

Funny Guys

2009-09-14T07:12:00.002-05:00

This is kinda funny...but maybe it's because it's early and I haven't had coffee yet.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Tell me...do you think Jason Stackhouse looks a bit like George W Bush?

U2 short recap

2009-09-13T00:24:00.001-05:00

It was SO so GOOD!!!

I mostly have video..so I'll have to work on that tomorrow and get those posted. I had a great time..and now must go to bed...with a little U2 on the ipod...

U2 - tonight

2009-09-12T17:56:00.003-05:00

I have been looking forward to this night for months! I bought the tickets weeks before we left Texas..so I bought them in April.

I love this band...they are one of my very favorites..and having seen them twice before, I know exactly what I am in for.

I'll report back tomorrow with pictures taken from much, much further away...and probably some of the jumbo-tron :)

Random Saturday

2009-09-12T11:28:00.003-05:00

I think today is going to be pretty random...so I'll just title this Random Saturday. I am kinda bored...well not bored..but enjoying doing nothing...we're going to see U2 tonight, so I need a really low key day with maybe a nap.

I have to face facts...

I guess I'll just have to get involved with other things over the winter...ugh..winter...makes me cold just thinking about it.

TBBT

2009-09-12T10:03:00.002-05:00

I've talked about how much I love the show The Big Bang Theory here before....and if you still aren't watching, please proceed to the nearest psychological evaluation center and well...have an evaluation.

Here are 5 great reasons ( <----- click the link ) why you should be watching!!!

It's kinda like a product endorsement...and I stand behind this message...or next to it....whatever...

No Explaination Necessary

2009-09-08T21:11:00.002-05:00

stupid stupid

2009-08-30T21:14:00.003-05:00

True Blood tonight...not quite sure what to say about it..I'll have to mull it over and get back to you tomorrow.

This weekend we went to Wisconsin to a baby shower. My dad had come out to stay with us for a few days starting on Wednesday. Wednesday night we went to the Cubs game...I have some pictures I'll have to put up...but at the game some stupid bitch stole my wallet. I assume it was a stupid bitch only because who the frick else would do that to someone???? Anyway, so that meant that I had to rush home and cancel my credit card - which fortunately no one used - and I'd have to get a new drivers license. That was the part that SUCKED most. Because I had no license to turn in - and I still had my Texas license - I not only had to take the written test, but THE FREAKING ROAD TEST TOO!!! How horrible is that?? Needless to say I passed..thank god. How sad would it have been if I'd failed? Lindsay said she would have hit something :)

That was probably the most eventful item of the past few days..so you haven't missed much.

Oh...and then there is this....can't get enough of this...

Signature

2009-08-25T20:52:00.001-05:00

I have this cute font and I want to add a signature to the bottom of my posts...but I am about to go bat shit crazy trying to get one in. Maybe I need to get an html book..

julie
(not in cute font)

District 9 - The Review

2009-08-24T21:45:00.015-05:00

Here we go. Warning...this will not be a good review...I mean, it won't be a quality review...yeah, that's more accurate.

The worst thing about the movie...well..mostly the worst thing was that my popcorn was too salty and Paul had to take it back and have them give us more...which was then salt free and, frankly, gross. So..that was the worst part :)

The first 10 or so minutes of the movie just seems to be in a documentary interview style...which I didn't find as annoying as I thought I would. From there, you could kinda tell that something was going to happen to the main character. So the aliens come, and we bust into their space ship..to find them "sick"...so the humans relocate them to a "camp" which after some time the humans don't want to deal with anymore...there is some chaos..and then the humans come to relocate them to somewhere more convenient to them. Sound familiar???? Sounds like something that we do over and over again....

There were some funny bits...one for me was when they tried to knock on all the doors of these aliens in District 9 to tell them they were being evicted and relocated....and asked for them to sign the sheet acknowledging this.

How stupid...yet funny.... So during the house to house eviction, the main guy gets this stuff sprayed on him which makes him sick..they want to cut him up for science, he escapes and then goes back to District 9, where he finds out the stuff that he sprayed on himself is the stuff they need to go home. They spend the rest of the movie trying to get it...whew. I am kind of exhausted now.

Another think I liked was the noise the humans made when hit by the alien gun...it was kind of a splat...it made me giggle. I thought the story was good..shows how the huntee became the hunted...and how in the end, we all should have compassion for each other. I am not really sure that was the point, but it sounds nice, right???

Overall, it was a little different than I expected but in a positive way! Hope you enjoy it too...but if not, I don't give refunds...

District 9

2009-08-24T11:54:00.001-05:00

We're going to see District 9 tonight. I'll let you know how it is.

Lindsay...

2009-08-23T14:39:00.003-05:00

...one for you...

and one for me...

new direction

2009-08-23T13:38:00.002-05:00

I think I am going to take my blog in a new direction...I don't think it's going to be so much daily life anymore and pictures of Izzie..though she is totally cute, right? But I want to talk about other things that I haven't felt much like doing because of what someone may think. Who is reading this anyway? I honestly don't give a crap anymore..I'll be what it's going to be :)

Here's to new stuff!

dripping with hotness

2009-08-23T11:21:00.001-05:00

Ok..another True Blood post..can't help it...it's on tonight :)

Eric Northman - who isn't even a real person..well it's like he is..but he isn't..he's one of the vampires on the HBO show True Blood - but for my purposes, and so I don't seem more ridiculous than necessary, he's a real person :)

He is dripping with hotness!

How hot is this???

So now you know what I mean. I don't know what it is, but I can't seem to take my eyes off of him...which just means we need more!

Is it the eyes..I think it's the eyes...

Sadly, he is only real on Sundays at 8:00...and only for 3 more weeks.

The Bears

2009-08-22T15:24:00.002-05:00

We're off to the Bears game today!

True Blood

2009-08-19T18:03:00.008-05:00

Hi everyone. This isn't really what I had planned for my post today - actually I've been making a list of blog ideas so I can keep updating - but I wanted to make comments about my current favorite show. I know that House is my favorite, favorite...but this is my summer favorite :)

Can I just say this show is dripping with vampire hotness??? I personally think that Eric is the best hottest vampire...don't you think?

Hmmm...wait..sorry..I was saying something..right...ok... Lindsay, on the other hand, thinks Bill is the hottest...

I mean..they're both lovely...but Eric takes the edge on the loveliness factor :) My opinion of course..and it's my blog..so my opinion wins...

Either way, I think it's a fantastic show and it really sucks you in each week. Too bad there's only 3 more episodes left :( But by then House will be ready to start...

i want, i want...

2009-08-18T22:34:00.002-05:00

I SO want one of these!

@ work

2009-08-17T17:18:00.007-05:00

I am blogging at work. I normally don't do this, but then again, I normally am not still here at almost 5:30 and I need to waste some time until my 8pm conference call with someone in Singapore...who thought 9am was a good time for a meeting since it would be no inconvenience to him. Hell, he might just stop for coffee or something and be a little late. (I don't know that for sure, but it could happen, right?) And since we don't have a home phone, I'll just take the call here. It is giving me an excuse to break in my new gym shoes..and use that pesky gym membership I pay too much for to not use.

These are the shoes I got.

Let me also say that this was the most comprehensive shoe fitting I have ever experienced. Not only did they measure my foot sitting and standing, but they let me walk outside in each pair while they observed how they were moving. I got a lesson on banging my orthotics into the heal of the shoe as well as tying and proper shoe-tongue placement. (no, that doesn't mean licking my shoes). I feel like I made the most informed purchase possible. I don't know that I spent that much effort in picking out my last car! Anyway, I am very happy with them and I am going to try them out in just a little while.

Oh..so I am still here at work..till about 8:30 or 9..and I my biggest issue, besides being the only one here..which will be weird..is the fear that the lights are going to go off. I think they are on a motion detector so every so often I'll have to wave my arms around I guess. I hope there aren't video cameras..they might start turning off the lights to be funny....

UPDATE - I am at work on my call..and I smell really bad...good thing no one is here...and there isn't a smell feature on the phone...

Weekend

2009-08-09T19:17:00.010-05:00

This weekend we were in the suburbs for Gavin's birthday party on Saturday. Since there is no point really in just driving out for the day, we went out on Thursday. We also scheduled a hair cut for Izzie :) We also did some other running around - things like shopping for the birthday present, going to the knitting shop and going to the grocery store - you're jealous..I know...

We got Gavin some dress up clothes for his birthday...he apparently LOVES dress up. So we got him this army guy outfit (that went perfect with the camouflage shorts my mom bought him..that he got super excited about and put on immediatley...yes..shorts...who knew a kid could get excited by shorts???) They were a perfect match for his army clothes...

We also got him a pirate outfit...

And of course there was birthday cake...

And other food...

Here's the cake and ice cream.

I don't know why I show pictures of food..I really don't...

I am also a total sucker, so I got Hayden a present too.

I think he liked it.

So there you have it...Gavin's birthday..

And a picture of Izzie..

University Knitting

2009-08-04T20:03:00.008-05:00

Late this afternoon, Paul had another interview at University of Chicago. Since it was at 5:30...and I don't like thinking of him going on the bus by himself (yes, I know he's an adult...and I know eventually he'll do this 5 days a week..and he's done it before...) I went with him - he said he'd enjoy the company. We did get there a little early, and so I waited with him, but then when the person who was interviewing him was on his way down to collect Paul, I decided to wander around. I figured it wouldn't be very good if Paul brought his wife to the interview. Anyway, I walked a few minutes, then found a Barnes and Noble and a Starbucks...where I proceeded to browse the books and not buy anything...but did decide to get an iced tea and a cupcake (for later). It was super nice out, and I'd brought my knitting with me, so I sat outside.

I've been working on this green sweater for quite some time...I was really intimidated by the pattern so when I got to that part, I just quit. I did find the courage to work through it..and funny thing..it wasn't that hard :)

What really was funny though, is that there are these little birds that were everywhere! One landed on the table I was sitting at, but before I could take it picture, it flew away. It must have been camera shy. I also had a few of them whiz right by my head, which, if you know me well, you know that I have a horrible fear of birds!!!

They don't look like much, but at one point there was a large group of them...and size doesn't really matter anyway, does it.

I also wanted to make sure to get a photo of where I was sitting...

I really like University of Chicago - its got amazing old buildings - which I am a huge fan of. I really hope it just becomes a huge fan of Paul!!

Wedding Entrance

2009-08-01T09:15:00.003-05:00

Have you seen this? I couldn't stop laughing...I would NEVER ever do this!

I can't claim responsibility for finding this one - it was on Babs Blog. There's another one there too that's such an adventure.

Bust

2009-08-01T08:54:00.004-05:00

All summer I've been meaning to go to the Printers Row Farmers Market that is on Saturdays from 7 - 2. This morning I was up super early so I figured I'd go...wow...why did I ever waste my time? From the website, it sounded like this great market, like others I've seen in the city. I think they maybe had 4 vendors..and only one of them really had any fruits and vegetables. It looks like I may have to change one of my work at home days from Tuesday to Wednesday so that I can go to the one at work. What makes me more irritated...really...is I'd brought my camera with me, fully prepared to take a picture of me sniffing something...or Paul pulling the grocery cart...nope..nothing.

We did stop at Whole Foods where we were there before they opened at 8 - and I didn't notice when they opened and I walked up to the door and tried to pry it open...Paul was like...they're not open yet...hmm...oops... anyway, where was I?? oh right... at Whole Foods where I did manage to pick up some fruit and a few other things - cheese. Their cheese selection is fantastic. They also had fresh tortillas at the bakery which I've already sampled. They are good.

So no pictures..an no pictures of me sniffing anything...sorry..

Enjoy the weekend!

Did I call that or what???

2009-07-31T11:14:00.008-05:00

I was on a roll..then we went house-sitting last weekend...and then the work week was super busy..and I didn't blog. Did you still come by?

So lets catch up, shall we? The last time we talked, I was having my celebratory post - reaching 200 - and talking about my haircut...riveting!! Since then, I was bored for a lot of last weekend. It wasn't warm enough to swim..so we mostly did nothing..oh and I took a nap. Good thing too because we went out to the Foundry for drinks.

I always forget how much my mug weighs when it's full...totally takes me 2 hands to pick the sucker up! But for 4 bucks...I'll struggle.

Paul clearly does not have the same struggle... Are you surprised??

After last weekend, it's been pretty uneventful. We're just hanging around doing our daily things..bathing..brushing our teeth...you know...regular stuff.

This weekend we're going to do something. I'll report back.

we're 200

2009-07-22T20:53:00.004-05:00

I noticed when starting this post that it's my 200th post. Wow..200 posts...I guess thats a lot..well not a lot for some people..like those who consisantly post on a daily basis..but it's a lot for me. If I had to break it down, that's probably about 15 posts about vacations or traveling, 40 posts about what we're having for dinner, 144 posts about Izzie..and 1 post about poop. :)

Well for this 200th post, I have a picture of Izzie.

I don't suppose you're surprised by this at all. It really was supposed to be a picture of my haircut, but she came up with me and..well...I took our picture. Here's what it actually looks like.

There you have it...Happy 200th...we all look good for our age....

Bored

2009-07-21T19:31:00.003-05:00

I'm bored.

We're going to house-sit and doggie-sit at my parents house tomorrow afternoon - we'll be there until Sunday. I'll be working remotely for 3 days, which means no ironing! whoo hoo!!! and I can wonder what t-shirt I can wear to work...

For now, I am just going to keep watching Ace of Cakes on the food network...

Everybody...yes...even you..

2009-07-20T19:39:00.006-05:00

I really get annoyed by people in the bathroom at work. Now..this may be an uncomfortable topic...but someone please explain to me why I can go into a restroom at work where there are 5 stalls..and in 3 of them..there are people sitting quietly - maybe they are waiting to see who just gives up and leaves? I'd really like to leave a copy of this on the counter..or maybe in each stall...

I often wonder if this happens in the men's room as well...but I see them going in with reading material...so I somehow doubt it...

just add Splenda

2009-07-19T19:55:00.004-05:00

Its been one of those days! We got up way too early because the Comcast person was supposed to be over to fix our internet between 7:30 and 10:00..well..guess what time they came..after 10:00. They did call to say they were running late, but still... I was up at 7:00 so I could take a shower before they showed up.. It has been a seriously LONG day! I even took a nap.

I've mostly been watching tv...HGTV to be exact. And now we're getting ready to watch True Blood. Do you watch that? We really like it.

Ok..so that's it. Short and sweet. Well maybe not sweet..but short. You may need to add Splenda..

the two Hughs

2009-07-18T21:30:00.014-05:00

Today was just one of those days....it started when I woke up (yes, as most mornings really do start then..) at 10:30...10:30!!!! I love Unisom..but maybe should have thought twice about taking it at 11:30 last night. Anyway, so Paul and I drove down through Hyde Park and looked at University of Chicago today. After that, we stopped in at Target. I have been wanting to go into the 2 story target downtown for weeks...and so today was the day. Let me just say that it was just like every other Target...except that there were 2 floors and it had one of those shopping cart escalators that I've only every seen before at IKEA. While walking through the isles, I found this..

Middle Sister wine!!! Had to get it just because of the label...and because I am the middle sister.. It might be total crap, but I am happy to have bought it.

So after Target, and some other routine shopping, we came home and had to listen to all the noise at Soldier Field - there was some tournament going on with those boards and beanbags where you have to throw the beanbag into the hole. I really don't understand how this is so popular... Anyway, we could hear it all going on and thankfully we just had to sit through the finals!

We've been watching House since then. I love this show! There are a few shows that I can watch over and over. I think it's because I love all actors named Hugh.

There's Hugh...

And then the other Hugh...

We watched Notting Hill last night..another good Hugh movie. Which makes me think I might have to dig out my Christmas card picture from a few years ago. Is it because I am half British that I adore them so much? maybe...

And for the final piece of entertainment, Izzie has decided that she's settled into her new home and she now plays...

Jinx

2009-07-17T11:56:00.017-05:00

I am going to jinx myself by saying this..but I am kinda on a roll here...is it 3 days in a row. Next post...October...haha.

So the weekend is upon us. It's FRIDAY...everybody holla.... (wow..I should really find something more age appopriate).

This morning, I had to get up and go into work to pick up my computer, which was getting an update that kept failing on me, and then come back home so I could work from home. I know, it seems silly, I mean, I was there so I should have just stayed, but that would have meant showering and ironing clothes..and let me tell you I am NOT fan of ironing. I'd have to give ironing the Facebook thumbs down (if there was such a thing). When I got home Paul had made cinnamon rolls - they were the generic ones from Aldi..but he best cinnamon rolls I've ever had!

Seriously...my mouth is watering just looking at the picture...

I love working at home. I love being able to not wear shoes. I love being able to get up and go to the bathroom without having to go through 3 doors and swipe my id badge. I love being able to pick up my knitting and knit a row if I get frustrated. And I LOVE the commute - well you really can't count today because I did commute..just all at once..and before work. Some things are the same though. I still attend meetings. I still do a lot of work. And I still eat lunch at my desk. Only at home, I have company.

Yeah..it's all about the company...

So it's Friday..in case you didn't realize that already because I believe I've mentioned it aleady...and that means that for the next 2 days, I don't really have much planned. I think I am going to work on my knitting mostly this weekend. I had been on kind of a knitting hiatus over the move and then while I was getting settled...but I think I am back to being able to sit and enjoy it. I am working on a sweater..which when Carol saw it, said to me, "how come they make things so complicated? When I used to knit you made a front, back and two sleeves and sewed it together." She may be on to something, but these days, the patterns are all "fancy"...but if I could find one like she's talking about, I'd be all for it! Anyway..my knitting...

So I realize this looks like something you could put on a toilet seat...the hole would need to be bigger though...but it's a sweater...or the start of one. Or if things go horribly wrong..maybe a toilet seat cover...it's good to have a fall back plan...

Now that it's folded over you can see...its going to be a cardigan..and that opening is the neck. Anyway...that's all I've done so far..and I will keep you updated on my progress. This is edge of your seat type stuff..I know...

So that's really it for now...it's what's been going on.. Have a nice weekend...and I'll see you in October.

PS..still haven't tried Magic Hat yet. I did finish some wine though.

Magic Hat

2009-07-16T21:40:00.005-05:00

Warning...this is going to be a rambling post...if you can't deal with it...well..too bad...I don't really care...

So...I am kind of irritated that I can't link up my twitter account with my blog. I think this is because of my "designer" layout. Weird, right? It should totally work, but it doesn't.

We went to Whole Foods tonight..I love the Whole Foods. I have to be careful though because I could go completely crazy in there and spend all of our savings! We mainly bought fruit and cheese...umm...cheese....and we thought we'd try a new beer.

Anyone ever tried Magic Hat? no? well we haven't tried it either but we will. I think we should try a new beer every week. At least then maybe we'd have something entertaining going on in our lives...so here we are..Week one of Try-a-New-Beer-a-Week...Magic Hat!

So I was at work today and I totally could not understand how I managed to walk out of the house wearing what I had on. I spent the entire day wishing I would go home and change. Why would I do that? I was so embarrassed. I wish I could just wear a uniform! And crocks! That would be the best!

I guess that's all. Seriously, I'll try to come up with something interesting...

Oh..did you see they're going to make another Bridget Jones movie...yay!!!

A is for Apple

2009-07-15T17:20:00.008-05:00

I am forever amazed by people who blog everyday..and really have interesting things to say. I am not one of these people. I mean, yes I can ramble on about what we're going to make for dinner and what we've watched on tv, but that really isn't interesting. I should start soliciting ideas...

Anyhoo...even though it's Wednesday, it totally feels like at least Thursday...and I think I might be on the back end of this rut I've been in lately. (I hope for everyone's sake, I am..and I am not just in denial).

I worked at home today and Izzie sat beside me most of the day, like she used to. I really miss my little Ms Harry Fuzzball co-worker. I took this closeness to an inviation to take her picture...someone tell me how this is comfortable??

Maybe I am just jealous because I can't get my foot over my head???

Often, working at home means that I eat at my desk while..well...while working... So guess who thinks that it's great??

Somehow I think that if she knew I ate at my desk when in the office she'd be pissed. Yep..the ultimate beggar dog. Mostly all I see is a nose...

But having snacks out helps me get pictures like this...because Izzie will do anything for a snack..

....and J is for Jacks.

Happy Wednesday!

the 3rd of July

2009-07-08T21:06:00.015-05:00

This year, since were in the city, Carol, Willie & Lacy came down to spend the night. When they got in on Thursday night, we treated them to wine and cheese :)

On the 3rd, we did some walking along the lake - it was a beautiful day and everyone was out early trying to get their prime spot for the fireworks. It is funny how people drag their grills out there and they stake out their "area". I really can't think that I'd ever, ever do that...

Here we are...walking along the lake..

Here's Carol, Willie, Lacy, and Paul. Izzie and I were the photographers in the back!

Here's one of those areas I was talking about...crazy I tell you...

We actaully walked for 2 1/2 hours..with the dogs. Needless to say, they were EXHAUSTED...and so were the humans. The dogs laid down immediately to take a nap...the humans though a beer sounded better...I think maybe the dogs were smarter...

because after we'd had a few beers..and some cheese...we needed to take a nap :)

Ok..so finally...we got to the fireworks. Some of these are fuzzy..I've tried to exclude those.. We had a great view from our balcony.

And the Grand Finale

I guess that's it! Hope everyone had a great 4th.

Tasty

2009-07-01T23:11:00.007-05:00

Tonight Paul and I wandered..ok..we took the bus...to the Taste of Chicago. This is a Chicago tradition so it's important that Paul went the first year he's here. What was nice was that it was not hot at all...so you didn't have to deal with the huge crowd AND sweating to death...it was a real plus..believe me.

So..here was the food/beverage run down
Sierra Mist bottle - shared
Beef Sandwich - Paul
Cheese Ravioli - Julie (shared with Paul)
Crab Cake nuggets - shared
Landshark Beer - one each
Lou's pizza - cheese and sausage - one each
Eli's cheesecake - Paul
Fried Dough - Julie (shared with Paul)
Bottle of water - shared

Here's Paul at the crab cake stand...

And then it was beer time...

And that makes everyone happy...

And enjoying his Lou's pizza...

So when it was all done..and we were totally stuffed and happy...we walked home.

A-Team

2009-06-30T18:07:00.007-05:00

When I used to work at home every day, I did so without the television on. With Paul home, the tv is on. ALL.THE.TIME. On days when I stay home and work, I notice more and more how many of the old programs they run during the day. I don't know if this is a Chicago TV thing or if this is something they do everywhere. The other day, it was the A-Team...this was acceptable because I LOVE ME SOME A-TEAM!!! I have even considered buying the seasons on DVD...I like it that much...BA and Hannibal...Face and Mad-Dog Murdock...wow...that was some good tv. Anyway..today's marathon has been Buck Rodgers (which I keep calling Battlestar Galactica). I remember watching this show years ago, but I don't have the same fondness as I have with the A-Team. I wonder what it will be tomorrow...I am hoping for the Fall Guy..but that may be a little too new for this channel...

UPDATE: I found the listing...I'm PISSED I missed out on the Monkees marathon on the 24th!!

In other news..nothing really exciting is going on. I know, boring...but what can I say. Paul is painting...I am working...and thats really about it. We do need to run to Home Depot tonight...

Cowheads Feed and Westernware

2009-06-16T20:36:00.019-05:00

It's raining...and I really don't want to watch TV. Instead, I am going to share some of the pictures with you from our trip from Texas to Illinois. Yes, I realize they are at least 5 weeks late, but if you're really that offended by it, you can just stop reading and go do something else...it's ok...I'll wait.....

Ok..gone?

Good...on with the pictures.

I think this was my favorite from the entire trip...

What is better than a Texas waffle??? And I got it to turn out so nice. Day 2 breakfast was waffles :)

this was my view for 3 days..

and this..

It was a very scenic 3 days, I assure you. With the U-Haul, the truck could only go about 65 mph before it started swaying. It was a little nerve wracking to be behind it and watching it. At one point, it rolled over a piece of old tire and Carol said "is that a snake???" There were actually a few memorable phrases from the trip..I'll get to those shortly. Back to the driving..so at 65, you get passed by lots of things that you aren't too happy to admit to... like a school bus..

but not just any school bus...a school bus towing a truck...

and one of these..does this carry gas? oil? maybe milk? though I suppose if it had milk in it there would be a cow on the side??

and we got passed by this a few times..not quite sure what statement they were trying to make...

And then there were the signs. We amused ourselves by reading them...and counting dead armadillos on the side of the road. It is funny to see what they are trying to sell along the road..16" dolls..at a fantastic gift shop, for $8.95. Do you think there was a survey for which shops should be "fantastic"?

And then there's nothing like Black Market fireworks, right at the same spot with the smokes and the liquor. I don't know..seems like an accident waiting to happen...

And then there is this...hmm..what to say. I wonder who thought of the name of this station? I mean we did see several of them...
..many of them near these... Now that's just gross...and don't try to make it like you didn't think of it too..because I know you did...

I didn't find my camera until part way through day 2..so here were some other memorable ones that I don't have pictures of. You can all come up with your own...

Cowheads Feed and Westernware - because you like to get animal feed and then pick up a new shirt for your date on Saturday.
Bobs Good Junk (why would they call it Bob's Shit No One Would Possibly Want)
Topless Tuesday and Thursday (Paul and Dad saw this one too)
Indian Smoke & Snake Shop

Alright..and no post would be complete without Izzie..who was very good and sat in the back for 3 days. Only once did something fall on her :)

Poor baby was surrounded by stuff...good thing she's so little.

and for the grand finale...we couldn't have gotten one more thing in here if we'd tried...the only reason there is open space is because those things fell out when we opened the door.

So glad this is over!

Hope you didn't get dust on you

2009-06-10T20:24:00.002-05:00

Holy crap the cobwebs are THICK!!!

I still have no pictures because my camera is dead and I can't find the cord to charge it...so here's whats been going on...

1. We moved.
2. Izzie is not quite sure how she likes being a city dog.
3. I've been going to work almost every day.
4. The commute is only 20 minutes, 35 minutes walking so...see previous point.
5. We got unpacked...yay..
6. We're getting new carpet and Paul has been paining so were back in chaos...booooo
7. We're planning to go to a movie this weekend. The Hangover looks funny.
8. I did some knitting the other night but I need to unravel a cast-on and I am going to need to be well rested and patient to do that - maybe this weekend.
9. I am beginning to wonder if it's ever going to stop raining and warm up.
10. When #9 happens, I'll regret wondering.

That's really it...this is hard without pictures.

Please post in the comments if you have specific questions and I'll address them :)

stuff

2009-05-21T17:22:00.002-05:00

We left Texas...arrived in Illinois 2 days later. We had no major issues. All of our old stuff is currently in storage...all of our new stuff is in my parents garage. More new stuff is still waiting to be purchased. We move next Wednesday. Once we move, and have a reliable internet connection, i promise to have a marathon post...WITH PICTURES...written from my new sofa..or my new desk...and you can all see where we live and the view of the lake from our balcony.

I miss you all. I'll write soon.

Julie

counting down...49 to go..

2009-05-05T11:36:00.002-05:00

I am assuming we'll leave about noon on Thursday...isn't there a song that says that?? or is it Noon on Tuesday...oh wait..it's something about "drinking beer at noon on Tuesday"...it's a Sheryl Crow song....wait..what was I saying??? Oh yeah, so I'd guess we'll be leaving about noon on Thursday and so that puts us at about 49 or so hours till we leave. I hope that's enough time to do everything I still need to do.

Anyway, we're picking up the UHaul tomorrow..and a very wise friend of mine has already told me that I need to take lots of pictures with the UHaul during the trip..and that those pictures are fun...she also told me that calories don't count when on a road trip..and I hope she's right because gas stations have the best snacks!!! Things you don't see anywhere else...like Hot Fries...yum...

Ok..so that's about it. I am trying to get a bunch of work wrapped up today and then tonight we have loads more throwing away and boxing up to do. Actually, we don't have as much as I think, I am just a little stressed out :)

This post will be picture free...sorta like calorie free....UHaul pictures to come...

A little honesty

2009-04-28T20:41:00.006-05:00

I'll be honest...now that most of the packing is done, I am a little bored. Don't get me wrong, there are still things to do and I am still working, but I am genuinely bored. I think I must be mentally in transition - I don't really want to do anything here, but I can't do anything there because..well..because I can't. Fortunately, work has been busy.

So...I've been trying not to read about the swine flu. I think the media is just in complete scare mode..which I am not going to buy in to. I mean, I wash my hands, I don't have people who spit on me, so I am pretty safe. I did find this great blog post though..which really just confirmed a lot of what I was thinking. It's kinda long, but a good, realistic read on the subject.

In other news..we went to the vet today...and guess who cost me $400?

Yep..that's who. At least we're stocked up on all the doggie drugs for a year :)

95% done

2009-04-26T20:36:00.003-05:00

Paul and I have been packing...but it took Paul's aunt Terri coming over...dragging everything out of the cabinets..and basically telling us to deal with it to get it done. Believe me, I got a little irritated, but I know why she did it and I am very grateful. All that remains is to box up our televisions (Paul would begin to twitch if we did it before next Wednesday), do some laundry, throw the rest of the food out, and that's really about it. Oh..and we have to pack some clothes for a few weeks, though we can also live out of the wardrobe boxes. So...that means that we can enjoy our last weekend here - we're available.

Also, I don't know if anyone noticed, but I posted a badge of our vacation pictures over there on the right. We had a great time.

We're back!

2009-04-20T09:25:00.001-05:00

We had a fantastic time! I'll post pictures later tonight (would have done it last night but fell asleep on the sofa at 8!).

On Vacation

2009-04-10T04:58:00.003-05:00

Paul and I are leaving this morning to meet my parents in Florida. From there, we're going on a cruise...jealous? I feel horrible about leaving Izzie..and with a face like this, can you blame me?

I am leaving her in very capable hands, where she'll get lots of love.

Until we get back, have fun, don't do anything I wouldn't do, look both ways before crossing the street, don't take candy from strangers, and don't eat yellow snow :)

Ladybugs

2009-04-07T20:13:00.003-05:00

I was watching Zack this evening and we were watching an Elmo dvd - his, not mine, you know, just for the record. There was a episode with bugs...and they were talking about ladybugs...and I SO wanted them to show this..but they didn't. I am such a Sesame Street junkie.

Iron-y

2009-04-05T16:38:00.004-05:00

I am starting to get ready for our trip and that involves ironing. Let me tell you, I iron like an idiot. I can iron a skirt and maybe a pair of pants, but that is where my skills end. I now believe that whatever the dry cleaner charges for ironing a man's shirt is fair. He could charge me $10 a shirt..and I'd pay it. If I understand correctly, the point of ironing is to iron OUT the wrinkles..not iron IN monstrous creases...right in the front...not at the bottom where it wouldn't matter....and how on earth are you supposed to iron the top of the back?? and the sleeves...well let me just say it...they are a pain in the ass too.

There are definitely things I was not put on this earth to do...being an ironing lady is one of them...a taxi driver is another..but that's for another day..

the bed hog..and the other one..

2009-04-05T08:26:00.010-05:00

Paul went out of town to go fishing. He doesn't go away very often...come to think of it, the only other time he's been gone was for a fishing trip...and then the 2 times he went for a sleep study...so for the past 2 years, he's been gone a total of 4 nights. I, on the other hand, have been gone for weeks at a time...but that's completely different. What I am getting at is though I complain about him actually wanting to use his half of the bed, him making some of the weirdest noises I've ever come out of a human, never getting my hand on the TV remote, and hating the nightly 'what's for dinner' conversation when I really just want cereal...I find it weird when he's gone. I am not saying I miss him because that would involve crossing a line I may never be able to step back over. At least when he's gone I get to sleep with Izzie without massive protest...who incidentally is the worlds biggest bed hog...and at 17 pounds, she totally knows how to maximize it!

Paul also has the camera...which is why I don't have any pictures. I suppose I could dig up one but I am feeling lazy so I won't. Oh..alright..you talked me into it...you're so persuasive.

May I present...my husband...the one who takes up his share of the bed (against my wishes) and the bed hog. I can't imagine a world without either of them. (oh no..it's starting to smell like syrup...)

As promised

2009-04-02T17:34:00.012-05:00

Here's my post.

The end.

Haha..only joking. That would be funny though..right? Yeah, it definitely would be.

Let's take a look through my pictures and see what I have to share...

We've been cleaning out a lot of things getting ready to move..and since I have a history of showing you closets and more closets, I figured why should this be any different. (why do I post pictures of this stuff?? Well..I guess I may as well continue the trend.) Here is the pantry...it's never looked so good!

There are still more closets to get to..and if I feel the need, I'll take pictures of them when they are done and share them too.

What else?

Paul and I went to see Monsters vs. Aliens on the IMAX last night..in 3D. The glasses were really good..not the normal cheap ones. Paul had actually thought he might try to steal a pair, but someone came in and made an announcement that if anyone tried to leave with them, an alarm would go off...so he didn't. And actually, when we were leaving, we did hear it go off. Here we are in our glasses...

We both really enjoyed the movie.

I got some new shoes. I ordered these from Zappos and I am really pleased with them. What I love about this site is that you don't have to pay for shipping...and they even sent them overnight and I got them the next day..for FREE. I love getting things for free...well..except I had to pay for the shoes :)

And finally, its not a post without a picture of Izzie.

Izzie had to have a bath today...and I just love how she looks when she's wet...

I think that's about it. I am sure there will be more closet pictures in the future...and you KNOW there will be more Izzie pictures...