I never thought I'd be one who has a collection of something..but somehow, over the years, I have accumulated quite a few SHOTGLASSES! I love checking out my collection every now and then and remembering where each of them came from! Looking over my shotglass collection usually brings back good memories of trips I've been on, or trips others have been on that brought back an addition to my collection as a souvenier for me.
I've never actually written down all the places I've collected shotglasses from so I thought what better place to document it other than my blog? Here it goes:
USA:
Big Bear, CA- 2009 Valentine's trip with Clay
Weed, CA- A friend purchased this as she passed through the uniquely named town
Laughlin, NV
Treasure Island, Las Vegas, NV- My 21st Birthday- 2002
Palms Place, Las Vegas, NV
Missoula, MT- A friend purchased a "Moose Drool" Shotglass
Seattle, WA
Maryland- 2007 Clay's trip with his brother
Greenbrier, WV- Clay's mom went to the opening of the golf course/clubhouse 2010
San Francisco, CA- 2008 Conor/Serene's wedding
New York, NY- Gabby and Nathan's wedding 2008
Buffalo, NY- 2003 Trip with Mom, Grandma, Sister and Great Aunt
Kauai, HA- 2001 Trip with Stegmaier's
Kauai, HA- 2010 Trip with Family
Kauai, HA "Okele Maluna" which means ottoms up in Hawaiian, 2010
Hawaii, HA x2
OTHER COUNTRIES:
Frankfurt, Germany- from a friend's trip 2005
Heidelburg, Germany- Clay's trip 2009 Boot shotglass
Berlin, Germany- Clay's trip 2009
Sydney, Australia- Clay's brother's trip 2009
Santorini, Greece- Clay's brother's trip 2010
Canada- 2003 trip to Buffalo, we visited Niagra falls and crossed over to the Canada side
Mexico x3
Mazatlan, Mexico x2- Trip with sister and parents 2005, Cruise Stop 2007
Manzanillo, Mexico- Cruise Stop 2007
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico- Cruise Stop 2007
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico- Mom and Sister's trip
London, England- Work Trip 2009
Prague, Czech Republic- Clay's trip 2009
Turkey- Clay's brother's trip 2010
Costa Rica
NOVELTY:
Kitain Wedding (11/10/07- Clay's first wedding) x4
Okole Maluna
Candy Cane Shotglass
Jagermeister x2
Easter Egg
Mini Martini
Plain x6
134th Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Glass 2008
135th Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Glass 2009
136th Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Glass 2010
There you have it- My documented shotglass collection! So many interesting places and what a great way to remember all the trips I or others have taken!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
Eat. Pray. Love
Read the book before you think about seeing the movie that is coming out soon starring Julia Roberts. The book is amazing...and easy to read! Pretty funny at parts and very well written!
That's all.
That's all.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Rihanna Concert Recap
I came across this article on MTV.com written about the Rihanna concert at the Staples Center, which I went to with three other girlfriends- Tawni, Larissa, and Lindsay. It pretty much summed up the entire concert with such detail that I thought I'd add it to my blog so I can always remember this amazing night!
~~~~~
LOS ANGELES — Rihanna's Last Girl on Earth tour may have been plagued by poor ticket sales during a bad summer for concerts, but fans were out in force at the tour's Los Angeles stop on Wednesday night. With sexy moves, a hint of violence and pyrotechnics, the singer delivered a nearly two-hour set (following opening sets from Travie McCoy and Ke$ha) that was capped by a surprise appearance by none other than Eminem.
The show began shortly after 7:30 p.m. as Gym Class Heroes frontman Travie McCoy hit the stage in support of his debut solo album, Lazarus. Tattooed from head to toe, wearing jeans, a T-shirt, suspender straps and a paperboy hat, he performed a quick 20-minute set as fans continued to trickle in and fill the arena. With a drummer, a DJ and a backdrop featuring his dog Stitch, McCoy strutted back and forth across the stage performing tracks including "The Manual," "Dr. Feel Good" and the summer hit "Billionaire" — sans Bruno Mars — before closing out by showing his softer (yet possibly still bitter) side with the breakup song "Need You."
Following McCoy was a wild, playful, foul-mouthed and at times sloppy Ke$ha, who emerged between two large lighting props shortly after 8 p.m. While echoes of "Right Round" filled the venue (the Flo Rida hit on which she's featured), the singer ordered everyone in the crowd to "Stand up right now!" Decked out in a black sequined short jumpsuit, a leopard bandana, sunglasses, fishnet hose, body glitter and a star painted on her left eye, the singer kicked off her performance, which as promised, provided nothing short of a full-fledged party vibe.
"I can't believe I am playing a show at the motherf---in' Staples Center!" the Animal singer exclaimed as she broke into "Blah, Blah, Blah." Accompanied by a full band and two quirky dancers, who at times where seen dancing in only American flag-designed Speedos, Ke$ha's set was a visual assault that included a gun-shaped guitar, exotic animal hats, cartwheels, drum smashing, and psychedelic cartoons that played on the stage behind her. She tore through six more songs from her debut album, including "Party at a Rich Dude's House," "Dinosaur," "Stephen," "Your Love Is My Drug," and finishing, of course, with the song that rocketed her to fame, "Tik-Tok."
After an hour-long intermission, the energy in the arena soared when Rihanna finally took the stage. Wasting no time, the singer opened up with her pop-rock ballad "Russian Roulette," wearing a floor-length black dress with flashing red lights while images of burning naked mannequins were displayed on screens behind her.
While stage lights flashed, six of her dancers emerged with glow-in-the-dark rifles. Rihanna reappeared shortly after, revealing a pink sequined bodysuit with her signature shoulder pads, which were a common theme throughout several of her outfit changes. Performing "Hard," the singer straddled a giant pink army tank with a Mickey Mouse army hat on while images of her video "Hard" flashed behind her.
Rihanna went on to perform a set filled with 23 hits, including "Disturbia," "Rehab," playful dance hits like "Pon de Replay," "Please Don't Stop the Music," and "S.O.S," and more intimate songs such as "Take a Bow" and "Hate That I Love You," and five different outfits, all of which had the similar leotard skin-tight looks that show off her figure. All the while, messages flashed across the screens, displaying statements that reflect Rihanna's dreamlike world: "One image. One voice. Welcome to Rihanna's world. The last girl on Earth."
Toward the end of the night, the crowd received the biggest treat of the show. As Rihanna began to sing the hook for "Love the Way You Lie," Eminem emerged from beneath the stage to join her. Allowing Eminem to take center stage, Rihanna gracefully stood nearby while the crowd screamed louder then ever. Dressed all in black, Eminem took control of the show and for an instant it almost appeared as if the crowd forgot they were attending a Rihanna show. But just as quickly as the song began, it was over, as the two disappeared beneath the stage together, leaving the audience chanting for more during the encore.
Closing out the night, Rihanna returned to play a medley of songs. As if to tease the audience into thinking another artist would make a guest appearance, she sang the hooks from "Live Your Life" and "Run This Town." The show ended with Rihanna's biggest hit song to date, "Umbrella," with red confetti released into the air, as she was elevated above the crowd on a platform. Once she was brought back onto the stage, she did a cute curtsy, thanking fans for making her dreams come true, before exiting the stage. As the lights came on, the dreamlike messages continued to flash up on the screen — "The dream is over. The dream is real" — while "What a Wonderful World" played throughout the arena.
Such an amazing concert! I would have never guessed she'd put on such a great show! When Eminem came out, the entire place went absolutely CRAZY! He was so on point with his song, popped up out of the floor, sang it and left with such professionalism! Of course I've downloaded each of their albums and have been rocking out to them ever since I left the concert! That's the great thing about live music- it makes you realize how much talent people actually really have!
~~~~~
LOS ANGELES — Rihanna's Last Girl on Earth tour may have been plagued by poor ticket sales during a bad summer for concerts, but fans were out in force at the tour's Los Angeles stop on Wednesday night. With sexy moves, a hint of violence and pyrotechnics, the singer delivered a nearly two-hour set (following opening sets from Travie McCoy and Ke$ha) that was capped by a surprise appearance by none other than Eminem.
The show began shortly after 7:30 p.m. as Gym Class Heroes frontman Travie McCoy hit the stage in support of his debut solo album, Lazarus. Tattooed from head to toe, wearing jeans, a T-shirt, suspender straps and a paperboy hat, he performed a quick 20-minute set as fans continued to trickle in and fill the arena. With a drummer, a DJ and a backdrop featuring his dog Stitch, McCoy strutted back and forth across the stage performing tracks including "The Manual," "Dr. Feel Good" and the summer hit "Billionaire" — sans Bruno Mars — before closing out by showing his softer (yet possibly still bitter) side with the breakup song "Need You."
Following McCoy was a wild, playful, foul-mouthed and at times sloppy Ke$ha, who emerged between two large lighting props shortly after 8 p.m. While echoes of "Right Round" filled the venue (the Flo Rida hit on which she's featured), the singer ordered everyone in the crowd to "Stand up right now!" Decked out in a black sequined short jumpsuit, a leopard bandana, sunglasses, fishnet hose, body glitter and a star painted on her left eye, the singer kicked off her performance, which as promised, provided nothing short of a full-fledged party vibe.
"I can't believe I am playing a show at the motherf---in' Staples Center!" the Animal singer exclaimed as she broke into "Blah, Blah, Blah." Accompanied by a full band and two quirky dancers, who at times where seen dancing in only American flag-designed Speedos, Ke$ha's set was a visual assault that included a gun-shaped guitar, exotic animal hats, cartwheels, drum smashing, and psychedelic cartoons that played on the stage behind her. She tore through six more songs from her debut album, including "Party at a Rich Dude's House," "Dinosaur," "Stephen," "Your Love Is My Drug," and finishing, of course, with the song that rocketed her to fame, "Tik-Tok."
After an hour-long intermission, the energy in the arena soared when Rihanna finally took the stage. Wasting no time, the singer opened up with her pop-rock ballad "Russian Roulette," wearing a floor-length black dress with flashing red lights while images of burning naked mannequins were displayed on screens behind her.
While stage lights flashed, six of her dancers emerged with glow-in-the-dark rifles. Rihanna reappeared shortly after, revealing a pink sequined bodysuit with her signature shoulder pads, which were a common theme throughout several of her outfit changes. Performing "Hard," the singer straddled a giant pink army tank with a Mickey Mouse army hat on while images of her video "Hard" flashed behind her.
Rihanna went on to perform a set filled with 23 hits, including "Disturbia," "Rehab," playful dance hits like "Pon de Replay," "Please Don't Stop the Music," and "S.O.S," and more intimate songs such as "Take a Bow" and "Hate That I Love You," and five different outfits, all of which had the similar leotard skin-tight looks that show off her figure. All the while, messages flashed across the screens, displaying statements that reflect Rihanna's dreamlike world: "One image. One voice. Welcome to Rihanna's world. The last girl on Earth."
Toward the end of the night, the crowd received the biggest treat of the show. As Rihanna began to sing the hook for "Love the Way You Lie," Eminem emerged from beneath the stage to join her. Allowing Eminem to take center stage, Rihanna gracefully stood nearby while the crowd screamed louder then ever. Dressed all in black, Eminem took control of the show and for an instant it almost appeared as if the crowd forgot they were attending a Rihanna show. But just as quickly as the song began, it was over, as the two disappeared beneath the stage together, leaving the audience chanting for more during the encore.
Closing out the night, Rihanna returned to play a medley of songs. As if to tease the audience into thinking another artist would make a guest appearance, she sang the hooks from "Live Your Life" and "Run This Town." The show ended with Rihanna's biggest hit song to date, "Umbrella," with red confetti released into the air, as she was elevated above the crowd on a platform. Once she was brought back onto the stage, she did a cute curtsy, thanking fans for making her dreams come true, before exiting the stage. As the lights came on, the dreamlike messages continued to flash up on the screen — "The dream is over. The dream is real" — while "What a Wonderful World" played throughout the arena.
Such an amazing concert! I would have never guessed she'd put on such a great show! When Eminem came out, the entire place went absolutely CRAZY! He was so on point with his song, popped up out of the floor, sang it and left with such professionalism! Of course I've downloaded each of their albums and have been rocking out to them ever since I left the concert! That's the great thing about live music- it makes you realize how much talent people actually really have!
OSCAR CHALLENGE- PRECIOUS
I finally saw Precious! Once the boyfriend was off to school for the night, I poured myself a glass of wine and popped the movie in. I was warned by my sister to be careful because this movie wants to make you punch someone in the face. I can agree with that. The movie did make me angry and was just plain sad to watch. It was a little slow for me, but I remained focused. I didn't really like all the violence and language- I'm more of a comedy type movie watcher. So...all in all, this movie was a little heavy for me- no pun intended. But I loved Mariah Carey's character...she was very inspirational!
The awards the movie won were well deserved. However, I don't think I could handle watching it again.
The awards the movie won were well deserved. However, I don't think I could handle watching it again.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
G'Bye June...Hello July Gloom!
If you thought July was supposed to be sunny and summery in Orange County, you thought wrong this year. It has been cloudy and gloomy everyday until maybe (if we're lucky) the sun pops out around 3:00 for a few hours! I'm ready for the summertime sunshine so hopefully it'll get here quick!
Here are a few pics from my whirlwind of a month of June:
Breakfast with Dani, Visiting from Alabama!
Congrats to Carrie, Pregnant again- it's a boy, Due in January! We are soooo excited for her!
Got to see my College roomie, Lana- who just got married about 4 weeks before this picture!!! I was unable to make it to the wedding but so glad I got to hang with her for a girls night out! We had so much fun catching up on EVERYTHING! 
This house is my Mom's Cousins House in Sandy Springs. The houses in Georgia are gorgeous and sooo spacious and GREEN! 
Christine is my Second Cousin(?), my mom's cousin's Daughter. And Grace (almost 1 year) is Christine's little girl. She was such a joy to be around- what a cutie! I've known Christine since we were about 8-10 yrs old and it is so amazing to see her grow and become a MOM! :)
Here are a few pics from my whirlwind of a month of June:
Vegas Babyyyyyy! June 1st-4th, Palms Place Hotel
Waterfalls, Beautiful Sunsets, Sun, Family and Fun!
Kauai, HA June 9th-16th
Breakfast with Dani, Visiting from Alabama!
Congrats to Carrie, Pregnant again- it's a boy, Due in January! We are soooo excited for her!Happy 28th Birthday Gabby!
Trip to Atlanta- June 22nd- 26th
Got to see my College roomie, Lana- who just got married about 4 weeks before this picture!!! I was unable to make it to the wedding but so glad I got to hang with her for a girls night out! We had so much fun catching up on EVERYTHING! 
This house is my Mom's Cousins House in Sandy Springs. The houses in Georgia are gorgeous and sooo spacious and GREEN! 
Christine is my Second Cousin(?), my mom's cousin's Daughter. And Grace (almost 1 year) is Christine's little girl. She was such a joy to be around- what a cutie! I've known Christine since we were about 8-10 yrs old and it is so amazing to see her grow and become a MOM! :)They were having a fabulous (ha, just my luck) heat wave in Atlanta when we arrived, so it was quite sticky! But we enjoyed seeing the family- mostly my mom's mom's sisters. (I know the family tree gets complicated when we head to the south!)
4th of July at the BeachHouse!
The usual festivities- decorations, margaritas, tattoos (fake ones of course), family, food! Only thing missing was the sun! 
Glendora Country Club Swim Team Reunion- 20 years later!
Glendora Country Club Swim Team Reunion- 20 years later!
Let's hope for some sun the rest of the summer! I didn't kill myself at the gym to wear sweaters all year! I'm sure it will get warm soon, and then I'll be praying for the gloom to come back!
Next week is Clay's birthday- I'm planning a bonfire for him! We're heading to Target to look for some fun beach toys for the birthday celebration! He hates birthdays, but I keep telling him he'll only turn 24 once! So enjoy it while it lasts!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Ohhhh June....
The end of May is approaching and I am getting a little anxious, yet extremely excited, for next month.
Clay and I will be kicking off the month with a trip to Vegas. We're staying at the Palms Place and spending the days by the pool in a complimentary cabana! YES! After 4 days of bliss with the best boyfriend in the world in the greatest city in the world, I'll be gearing up to head to Kauai with the family- well, a few of them!
My mom and Rob, Chelsea and Jeremy, and Adam and myself will be spending about a week in paradise. After we return from Hawaii, I'm assuming there will be a little bundle of joy to visit up in Fresno. My nephew is due to arrive mid June! Duncan and Tracy are VERY excited about becoming parents to little Hudson! We all can't wait to meet him! There may be a trip to Atlanta after I meet my nephew, to catch up with a few family members there. I haven't been to Atlanta in years and am glad I have the time and opportunity to get there to spend time with family. We used to visit there about every other year when I was younger. Of course as time goes on, schedules get hectic and it gets harder to arrange time for family. But, and I've said this before, family is so so important. After all is said and done, your family members are the only people who will always be there. After the month of June whizzes by me, there will be more family celebrations as we get together for our most favorite family holiday- 4TH OF JULY! I can't wait for the fun to begin!
Life goes by so fast. Make the most of it!
Clay and I will be kicking off the month with a trip to Vegas. We're staying at the Palms Place and spending the days by the pool in a complimentary cabana! YES! After 4 days of bliss with the best boyfriend in the world in the greatest city in the world, I'll be gearing up to head to Kauai with the family- well, a few of them!
My mom and Rob, Chelsea and Jeremy, and Adam and myself will be spending about a week in paradise. After we return from Hawaii, I'm assuming there will be a little bundle of joy to visit up in Fresno. My nephew is due to arrive mid June! Duncan and Tracy are VERY excited about becoming parents to little Hudson! We all can't wait to meet him! There may be a trip to Atlanta after I meet my nephew, to catch up with a few family members there. I haven't been to Atlanta in years and am glad I have the time and opportunity to get there to spend time with family. We used to visit there about every other year when I was younger. Of course as time goes on, schedules get hectic and it gets harder to arrange time for family. But, and I've said this before, family is so so important. After all is said and done, your family members are the only people who will always be there. After the month of June whizzes by me, there will be more family celebrations as we get together for our most favorite family holiday- 4TH OF JULY! I can't wait for the fun to begin!
Life goes by so fast. Make the most of it!
Friday, May 7, 2010
Just A Quick Lunch...
- Fresh Ciabatta Bread
- Sliced grilled steak
- Sauteed peppers and Onions
- Pesto spread on one side of the bread
- Provolone melted on the other side of the bread
- Spinach
Be sure to let the steak rest before slicing it so all the juices remain in the meat!
Also, layer the steak in a way that the sandwich can be bitten through easily. Otherwise, it will fall all apart!
Bon Appetit!
- Sliced grilled steak
- Sauteed peppers and Onions
- Pesto spread on one side of the bread
- Provolone melted on the other side of the bread
- Spinach
Be sure to let the steak rest before slicing it so all the juices remain in the meat!
Also, layer the steak in a way that the sandwich can be bitten through easily. Otherwise, it will fall all apart!
Bon Appetit!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
OSCAR CHALLENGE ~ The Blind Side
So, after all the hooplah with Sandra Bullock and her grimy soon-to-be ex-husband- I decided to check out her Oscar winning performance in The Blind Side. While I was housesitting for my parents, I decided to watch it one night...while I was alone, since I heard it was pretty sappy- haha! It is definitely a feel-good type of movie and it shows that there are still good people that exist in the world. No pre-judgements, no questions, just love and the desire to make the world a better place for someone less fortunate. It is sad to think of how much talent is out there in the world that may go unnoticed solely due to the lack of opportunity. Once the main character, Micheal, was given the oppotunity to excel, his hard work and determination got him to places he never imagined. The movie had a great message and it's no wonder it was nominated for an Oscar.
Still haven't seen Precious- that HAS to be my next one!
Still haven't seen Precious- that HAS to be my next one!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Spring has Sprung!
Lots of fun things have been happening this year and so far 2010 has been so great!
Here are just a few recent events:
Celebrating Larissa's 29th Birthday- friendship of 10 years and counting!
And Victoria's 17th Birthday trip to Disneyland!
Here are just a few recent events:
And Victoria's 17th Birthday trip to Disneyland!Clay and I took a trip to Big Bear! It snowed all day, probably about a foot!
Met up with Megan and friends at Incahoots in San Diego- a little country line dancing won't hurt no one!
Visited Suzanne and her babies- Kaylee and Rylee are 14 months!
Happy St. Patty's Day from Fat Cat
Norcal crew invaded Socal for Tommy's Birthday Party- Kelsey and Mike and Nick came down to hang with Gabby, Carrie and I. It was a great time at the beach house and the Pence compound!
The Parent's had a 20th anniversary party- Smith Reid Family still going strong!
Clay and I took a quick trip up to Santa Barbara so I could visit my old college and town. UCSB looks different but some things never change. I hit up the study hall, a favorite bar and Zodo's. a fav bowling spot! Saw all of the houses I lived in while in college and checked out the campus! Downtown was great too! Here are a few from the trip:
Victoria and I had our annual Easter photoshoot at my mom's house! I love Spring! There were more of these but I just wanted to get a few in here!
I guess this is my quarterly update for the year 2010...so excited to see what the rest of the year has to offer!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
OSCAR CHALLENGE- UP IN THE AIR
So...
I liked this movie....actually, I think I really liked this movie! I will be watching it again in the near future- but here are some things I really liked so far:
- george clooney...duh. down-to-earth, real, classy.
- the argument between casual relationships and actually picturing a future with that person
- the realization that life changes in an instant....not always for the better but you still have to deal!
- I loved loved loved the simple shots of the film from the shots of clouds in the air to the regular ritual of packing a bag
- the irony of the lead actresses need to "escape" from her "real" life. this does not make sense to me and made me extremely disappointed once revealed.
- emotion is a simple part of life- you can't deny it. you must accept it- no matter how scary it may be....the best of life may come from those situations where you leap without looking!
Next up....Precious! I'm excited!
I liked this movie....actually, I think I really liked this movie! I will be watching it again in the near future- but here are some things I really liked so far:
- george clooney...duh. down-to-earth, real, classy.
- the argument between casual relationships and actually picturing a future with that person
- the realization that life changes in an instant....not always for the better but you still have to deal!
- I loved loved loved the simple shots of the film from the shots of clouds in the air to the regular ritual of packing a bag
- the irony of the lead actresses need to "escape" from her "real" life. this does not make sense to me and made me extremely disappointed once revealed.
- emotion is a simple part of life- you can't deny it. you must accept it- no matter how scary it may be....the best of life may come from those situations where you leap without looking!
Next up....Precious! I'm excited!
cooking for dummies....
chicken breast
stuffed
with
garlic sauteed spinach
and
ricotta cheese
topped with
sauteed crimini mushrooms
.....
this happens on a regular basis! I love cooking....and so does Clay! Match made in heaven!
<3
stuffed
with
garlic sauteed spinach
and
ricotta cheese
topped with
sauteed crimini mushrooms
.....
this happens on a regular basis! I love cooking....and so does Clay! Match made in heaven!
<3
Monday, March 15, 2010
Oscar Challenge- The Hurt locker
The Hurt locker- Liked it....didn't LOVE it, however I would recommend it to a friend! I thought the point of the movie was very well expressed through the eyes of the Oscar's first ever Female winner of the best director category. She did an excellent job with character development. It is a typical war movie, so descriptively depicting the details of war one would never be able to imagine without having been there. The movie was just long enough to hold my attention, just gory enough to not completely gross me out, real enough to feel the heat of the desert. It was a very well put together movie. Up next...Up in the Air and I am pretty excited to see it!
By the way, today has probably been the nicest day of 2010. Clay and I went on a quick bikeride down at the beach and it was amazing! Spring has sprung...the best time of the year!
By the way, today has probably been the nicest day of 2010. Clay and I went on a quick bikeride down at the beach and it was amazing! Spring has sprung...the best time of the year!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Oscar Challenge
After watching the academy awards the other night, I think I may have a few amazing movies I need to catch up on! Am I that out of touch? Why have I only seen and HEARD of about 1/4 of the movies up for awards? Maybe I'm just not a movie person- however, movies do something to you that is so different from a book, or personal interaction. You are transformed to a place- any place you can imagine- and for about two hours, you are intrigued with their world.
I find it amazing that there are so many GOOD movies out there that I have not seen. This may be because I have a strong tendacy to fall asleep during movies, as well as the fact that it now costs an arm and a leg to go to the movie theater.
The Oscar nominees I did see included Avatar, Inglorious Basterds (fell asleep- too long), and Up- all amazing movies!
I have begun a movie challenge to see if I can get through a few more of those award winners.
Tonight was Julie and Julia. Meryl Streep was nominated for Best Actress for playing the role of Julia Child. The movie was excellent. Being interested in cooking and food made the movie all the more better. I thought it was excellent....maybe another reason that I am blogging about it right now. Inspired? Probably. I don't think I am very prepared to "bone a duck" yet- but I may just be trying a few of Julia Child's recipes from her book Mastering the Art of French Cooking.
I may need to find a few healthier alternatives while going through her recipes, but cooking is all about improvise right?
Off to stir the chili...
Next on the Oscar Challenge list- The Hurt Locker.
I find it amazing that there are so many GOOD movies out there that I have not seen. This may be because I have a strong tendacy to fall asleep during movies, as well as the fact that it now costs an arm and a leg to go to the movie theater.
The Oscar nominees I did see included Avatar, Inglorious Basterds (fell asleep- too long), and Up- all amazing movies!
I have begun a movie challenge to see if I can get through a few more of those award winners.
Tonight was Julie and Julia. Meryl Streep was nominated for Best Actress for playing the role of Julia Child. The movie was excellent. Being interested in cooking and food made the movie all the more better. I thought it was excellent....maybe another reason that I am blogging about it right now. Inspired? Probably. I don't think I am very prepared to "bone a duck" yet- but I may just be trying a few of Julia Child's recipes from her book Mastering the Art of French Cooking.
I may need to find a few healthier alternatives while going through her recipes, but cooking is all about improvise right?
Off to stir the chili...
Next on the Oscar Challenge list- The Hurt Locker.
Everything happens...
....for a reason! The economy has finally caught up with the company I worked for and I have been let go. However, I always try to look on the bright side of things. There is always a brighter side to things. This simple statement has kept me going throughout many circumstances that I've endured throughout life.
So, with the help of umemployment and tax returns, I feel I can take a little time to focus on which direction I want to go in life. I don't think I can handle another office job- so I will do whatever it takes to not end up there. I am hoping that financially I don't have to succomb to another job I will hate in 2 years. Although I am extremely organized, office work just is so....unimaginative! No creative juices flowing....and I feel like that is a key ingredient in my daily life!
I am not sure yet what area that creativeness is going to come from- cooking, cleaning, organizing, photography, events, decor, design...seems that the possibilities should be endless. I just need to focus and see what direction was meant for me to go in.
So, with the help of umemployment and tax returns, I feel I can take a little time to focus on which direction I want to go in life. I don't think I can handle another office job- so I will do whatever it takes to not end up there. I am hoping that financially I don't have to succomb to another job I will hate in 2 years. Although I am extremely organized, office work just is so....unimaginative! No creative juices flowing....and I feel like that is a key ingredient in my daily life!
I am not sure yet what area that creativeness is going to come from- cooking, cleaning, organizing, photography, events, decor, design...seems that the possibilities should be endless. I just need to focus and see what direction was meant for me to go in.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
LOVE
So, the boyfriend and I are heading to Vegas tomorrow night. For what reason, might you ask? Well...there are a few:
1. We found flights from Orange County to Vegas that were $25 each way- $65 ROUND TRIP with taxes/misc charges. You can't get fly for any cheaper than that- in fact, it'd probably cost more in gas to drive! The flight is barely long enough for you to settle in your seats and get a cocktail in you before you're already landing in Sin City, which is much better than the 5 hour drive out there!
2. Clay offered as a birthday present to get us tickets to go see a show when we are there! I looked at all the choices and have heard so many wonderful things about LOVE that I couldn't pass this opportunity up! The music, the dancing...it is going to be great! I am very excited to get dressed up and head out to dinner before. Maybe this will give Clay a chance to try his new suit he got for christmas! Not sure where we'll be going to dinner yet- looks like we have some homework to do before we leave tomorrow.
3. We found some pretty good hotel deals since we booked the trip so far in advance. We're staying at The Hotel, which is a seperate part of Mandalay Bay. I've never stayed there before- we usually opt for the cheapest place to lay our heads, which ends up being Imperial Palace or something like that! The Hotel will be a nice upgrade!
The last time we went to Vegas was for my friend's wedding at Ceasar's Palace, which was a great trip- but it felt more like a wedding than the whole Vegas experience! I am excited to play, eat, sleep and drink...maybe do a little gambling! Should be a great time!
1. We found flights from Orange County to Vegas that were $25 each way- $65 ROUND TRIP with taxes/misc charges. You can't get fly for any cheaper than that- in fact, it'd probably cost more in gas to drive! The flight is barely long enough for you to settle in your seats and get a cocktail in you before you're already landing in Sin City, which is much better than the 5 hour drive out there!
3. We found some pretty good hotel deals since we booked the trip so far in advance. We're staying at The Hotel, which is a seperate part of Mandalay Bay. I've never stayed there before- we usually opt for the cheapest place to lay our heads, which ends up being Imperial Palace or something like that! The Hotel will be a nice upgrade!
The last time we went to Vegas was for my friend's wedding at Ceasar's Palace, which was a great trip- but it felt more like a wedding than the whole Vegas experience! I am excited to play, eat, sleep and drink...maybe do a little gambling! Should be a great time!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Frozen Hands
Tree branches falling down, streets flooded, rain, thunder, lightning....TORNADO WATCHES!
Dorothy, we're not in Kansas anymore! I can't believe this weather we are having in SoCal. It has been practically a week straight of storms- some minor and some not so minor. But a tornado watch in Orange County? Really? The winds were getting a little scary in what I now know to be a wind tunnel right outside my office! So far, everyone I know has made it through stormwatch 2010 safely! I got to see the most beautiful rainbow this morning on my way to work. Maybe it's a sign that the end of this storm is near. I'm sick of the rain already- one of the many reasons I've decided to live in Southern California is the weather! So, hopefully this weekend will be a nice one! I have my frozen little fingers crossed!
Dorothy, we're not in Kansas anymore! I can't believe this weather we are having in SoCal. It has been practically a week straight of storms- some minor and some not so minor. But a tornado watch in Orange County? Really? The winds were getting a little scary in what I now know to be a wind tunnel right outside my office! So far, everyone I know has made it through stormwatch 2010 safely! I got to see the most beautiful rainbow this morning on my way to work. Maybe it's a sign that the end of this storm is near. I'm sick of the rain already- one of the many reasons I've decided to live in Southern California is the weather! So, hopefully this weekend will be a nice one! I have my frozen little fingers crossed!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
How quickly they grow up...
How come it seems that when I was in high school, I felt much older and more mature than what I picture my little sister to be? I can't believe it's already half way through her junior year of high school. I can't believe she is as old as I was when I picture things happening my junior year. But whether we like it or not, they grow up so fast these days. Sometimes they don't even realize it and life happens before they even know it! And all you can do is hope that these kids have gotten the foundation to make good decisions. They don't realize how important their upbringing will influence the choices they make- but some day it will become apparent. I am thankful for every tiny influence Victoria has picked up from her parents. Unfortuately, her mother lost an extremely intense and long battle to cancer and will no longer be here to teach Victoria new things. However, Kathy's imprint is on V's heart forever. I see it every day in her and I am so thankful for the days she was here to influence us all to be a better person.
High school can be a scary place- and I had my doubts that Victoria would make it through untainted- but she has proven me wrong....a few times and continues to do so! And I couldn't be more proud! I can't wait to see what lies ahead for her...Although her mom's not physically here, I know she's watching over V and thinking the exact same thing!
Live Laugh Love.
High school can be a scary place- and I had my doubts that Victoria would make it through untainted- but she has proven me wrong....a few times and continues to do so! And I couldn't be more proud! I can't wait to see what lies ahead for her...Although her mom's not physically here, I know she's watching over V and thinking the exact same thing!
Live Laugh Love.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Dinner Plans...
Blackened Swordfish with pineapple, mango & papaya mint salsa
Sauteed Fresh Green Beans
Herb & Garlic Roasted Baby Potatoes
Baked Butternut Squash (this may become dessert with a little maple syrup added to it!)
Baguette & Butter
Who needs dinner at a fancy shmancy restaurant when I have Santa Monica Seafood to buy fresh fish and Clay as a sous chef? :)
Aside from the pain in my neck from sleeping wrong, 2010 has been a great year so far!
I love my life!
Sauteed Fresh Green Beans
Herb & Garlic Roasted Baby Potatoes
Baked Butternut Squash (this may become dessert with a little maple syrup added to it!)
Baguette & Butter
Who needs dinner at a fancy shmancy restaurant when I have Santa Monica Seafood to buy fresh fish and Clay as a sous chef? :)
Aside from the pain in my neck from sleeping wrong, 2010 has been a great year so far!
I love my life!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
2010*
Wowwww....2010 is here! Where did that last decade go? And what did we finally decide to call it? The two thousands? Well, a new decade is here- the tensies! ha I am so excited to see what this year will bring me, where it will take me, the things that I'll see, the people I'll meet. I'm not one for making new year's resolutions since no one keeps them anyways! But I'm thinking this will be the year of more healthier choices. I need to focus more on what to do to help me make those healthier choices. Because I ain't gettin any younger here... :)! I'm not going to limit myself to stupid promises I'll never keep. I just need to keep in mind one thing "Will this better my health?"
One upcoming event that may motivate me is a trip to Vegas in February! Clay and I are flying- we found tickets a few months ago for $25 EACH WAY! We're staying at a pretty nice hotel and going to a show!!!! This was my birthday present from Clay. He knows I love those kinds of things- so he said to pick whatever show I wanted so I picked LOVE at the Mirage! I've heard it's amazing and I can't wait to experience it! I can't wait to have some time away with Clay. Because of his work and school schedule, my "trips" are usually planned without him! But not this time- and I am so excited! I love Vegas....so many things to do and see!
I know this month is going to fly by and I am so excited to have something to look forward to!
Also looking forward to finding out if I'm going to have a little neice or nephew at the end of this month. I'll be heading up to Fresno for Duncan's birthday and they're going to make the announcement then when lots of family can be around! I love my family! :) Then it'll be Victoria's birthday- 17!!!! That is crazy! Where has the time gone??? And Adam and Robyn's birthdays, then Valentine's Day, then straight into March/Spring! This year is already a quarter of the way over in my mind...has anyone figured out how to slow down time? Until then, I try to take as many mental (and real) photos as I can!
One upcoming event that may motivate me is a trip to Vegas in February! Clay and I are flying- we found tickets a few months ago for $25 EACH WAY! We're staying at a pretty nice hotel and going to a show!!!! This was my birthday present from Clay. He knows I love those kinds of things- so he said to pick whatever show I wanted so I picked LOVE at the Mirage! I've heard it's amazing and I can't wait to experience it! I can't wait to have some time away with Clay. Because of his work and school schedule, my "trips" are usually planned without him! But not this time- and I am so excited! I love Vegas....so many things to do and see!
I know this month is going to fly by and I am so excited to have something to look forward to!
Also looking forward to finding out if I'm going to have a little neice or nephew at the end of this month. I'll be heading up to Fresno for Duncan's birthday and they're going to make the announcement then when lots of family can be around! I love my family! :) Then it'll be Victoria's birthday- 17!!!! That is crazy! Where has the time gone??? And Adam and Robyn's birthdays, then Valentine's Day, then straight into March/Spring! This year is already a quarter of the way over in my mind...has anyone figured out how to slow down time? Until then, I try to take as many mental (and real) photos as I can!
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