Thursday, May 27, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Savannah!
I am realizing just what a pain it is to upload photos. I just spent 50 minutes uploading the Savannah photos to my computer, Shutterfly, and Facebook. Now, it's blogspot time.
Savannah was such an amazing city! It was so beautiful, cute, and full of history. L and I had a great time visiting his friends, and it was a perfect little getaway!
These three pictures pretty much sum up Savannah. I can do it in one word too: Antebellum.
This photo is of one of the most haunted homes in America. Now, I'm not sure what I think, but I'll tell you the story. Apparently, a doctor came to town who thought he knew the remedy for Yellow Fever. Something about drinking tar and other nonesense. He had a hospital of sorts, mostly children, but they all died of yellow fever. Feeling like a failure, he killed himself as well. The rumor is, they had to board up the windows on the top floor because people from the street would complain about seeing children's faces. No one's ever lived in this house more than a few months, and it's been on the market for years now.
Savannah is known as the city built on its dead. I don't have a picture for this story, but it's a neat story. There's a city cemetery in the middle of town, with only 600 headstones, but with what is believed to be 11,000 unmarked graves. During the height of yellow fever, something like 55 people died a day! A cart would come around town and you would throw your dead in the back, and they just piled them in the graveyard. Well, one day, as they opened the grave to put in more bodies (or actually, I think they were mausoleums), they noticed scratch marks inside. After some investigation, they realized that some people they thought were dead had only really passed out. From then on, they tied string to the hand of every body, which was attached to a bell. If they woke up and started moving about, the bell would ring, and the attendants knew to go let them out. Isn't that the creepiest story you've ever heard?! Can you imagine waking up in a dark mausoleum next to stinking rotting bodies! Oh my gosh, gives me the chills!!
This next picture is at Bonaventure Cemetery, made famous from the movie/book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." They had to remove the Bird Girl Statue because all the tourists were touching her, and they were afraid they would break her.
There were a lot of interesting other stories, too much for one blog. Here's a picture of a statue in Forsyth Park. All the statues in Savannah are positioned to be pointing either South or North, depending on the period during which the lived. They positioned them to be facing their enemies, so statues that defending them from the Spanish are pointed south, while those during the Civil War are pointed north. You can't really see the statue in this picture, but it gives a good idea of how pretty Forsyth Park is.
This is of the Mercer House, where Jim Williams lived. He saved and restored hundreds of old historic homes in Savannah. He was made infamous in the same book (known as just "The Book" here in Savannah) when he shot his servant and the book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" was written. I think I need to read that book, or at the least, check out the movie.
Let's see, what else. Most of my other pictures are of me and L, so I shan't be posting those. But we had a really lovely time. Savannah has an open container law, very nice. All of the bars would ask if you wanted your drink for here or to go. If to go, they gave it to you in a plastic cup and you could walk around the city, maybe a 4 by 4 block area, where there were lots of bars, lots of squares, lots of parks, it was pretty neat. I can see why it is such a popular destination for St. Patty's day. River Street was really neat, lots of restaurants and shops all on the water. I swear I haven't eaten that good in a long time. All of the food was so southern and decadent. Delicious, yes, but maybe a little too much. And my waistline is still showing that now! Even with all the walking we did, you just can't walk off Paula Dean's restaurant no matter how hard you try!
Well, I guess that's it. Hope you enjoyed your history lesson on Savannah. Really a neat city, tons to do, to see, you can walk everywhere, it was a lot of fun. Although, I will suggest not going between June and August! Yes, it gets mighty hot down there!
Savannah was such an amazing city! It was so beautiful, cute, and full of history. L and I had a great time visiting his friends, and it was a perfect little getaway!
These three pictures pretty much sum up Savannah. I can do it in one word too: Antebellum.
This photo is of one of the most haunted homes in America. Now, I'm not sure what I think, but I'll tell you the story. Apparently, a doctor came to town who thought he knew the remedy for Yellow Fever. Something about drinking tar and other nonesense. He had a hospital of sorts, mostly children, but they all died of yellow fever. Feeling like a failure, he killed himself as well. The rumor is, they had to board up the windows on the top floor because people from the street would complain about seeing children's faces. No one's ever lived in this house more than a few months, and it's been on the market for years now.
Savannah is known as the city built on its dead. I don't have a picture for this story, but it's a neat story. There's a city cemetery in the middle of town, with only 600 headstones, but with what is believed to be 11,000 unmarked graves. During the height of yellow fever, something like 55 people died a day! A cart would come around town and you would throw your dead in the back, and they just piled them in the graveyard. Well, one day, as they opened the grave to put in more bodies (or actually, I think they were mausoleums), they noticed scratch marks inside. After some investigation, they realized that some people they thought were dead had only really passed out. From then on, they tied string to the hand of every body, which was attached to a bell. If they woke up and started moving about, the bell would ring, and the attendants knew to go let them out. Isn't that the creepiest story you've ever heard?! Can you imagine waking up in a dark mausoleum next to stinking rotting bodies! Oh my gosh, gives me the chills!!
This next picture is at Bonaventure Cemetery, made famous from the movie/book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." They had to remove the Bird Girl Statue because all the tourists were touching her, and they were afraid they would break her.
There were a lot of interesting other stories, too much for one blog. Here's a picture of a statue in Forsyth Park. All the statues in Savannah are positioned to be pointing either South or North, depending on the period during which the lived. They positioned them to be facing their enemies, so statues that defending them from the Spanish are pointed south, while those during the Civil War are pointed north. You can't really see the statue in this picture, but it gives a good idea of how pretty Forsyth Park is.
Well, I guess that's it. Hope you enjoyed your history lesson on Savannah. Really a neat city, tons to do, to see, you can walk everywhere, it was a lot of fun. Although, I will suggest not going between June and August! Yes, it gets mighty hot down there!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Wendesday Hump Day Blog
I’m definitely in the mood to write a blog today, but am at a total loss for topics. Everything I want to write about would just end up me bitching, and that’s not good for anyone. So, instead, I’ll go with one of my random posts.
L update – things are still going so well with L. We’re going to Savannah for a mini-vacation on Friday and I’m really excited about it! I’ve never been, and I know it’s going to be so cute! Also, we’ve been having “talks.” Gulp. Yikes. I know! But definitely good ones. He’s told me that I’m the one he wants to spend his life with, and in a couple of months he’ll be ready with the ring! Can you even believe it? I just still can’t get over how easy it was with him. I dated M for two years, we never even talked about the future other than “what are we doing this weekend?” Then there was the year long drama with Coach. Then the Major. And each of those relationships definitely had some sort of drama or issue. There’s none of that with L. I guess that’s when you know he’s the one. All that drama goes out the window. I’m just really lucky I found him. He really is amazing and so nice and kind and smart and fun to be with!
State colleges – this has not been a good couple of years for the Virginia state schools. Just some of the most devastating things have happened, starting with the Virginia Tech massacre back in 2007 and most recently, of course, the lacrosse murder at UVa. I just can’t even imagine all the heartbreak. I will say, that Hughley’s mother came out with the most touching statement today. It brought to mind that among all the heartbreak with Love and her family, there’s a family who still loves their son, regardless of what he’s done. Obviously the tragedy to the Love family, teammates and friends is insurmountable, but while you’re praying for their family, it’s important to remember there’s another family to keep in your prayers as they deal with a very different, but still very intense kind of pain.
Blake update – haven’t done one of these in awhile. Here she is at the Costume Institute Gala wearing Marchesa. All the blogs were all about her legs, and yes, she has some nice ones! Totally coveting! I feel like I should post pictures of her around me at all times, to persuade me not to eat.
L update – things are still going so well with L. We’re going to Savannah for a mini-vacation on Friday and I’m really excited about it! I’ve never been, and I know it’s going to be so cute! Also, we’ve been having “talks.” Gulp. Yikes. I know! But definitely good ones. He’s told me that I’m the one he wants to spend his life with, and in a couple of months he’ll be ready with the ring! Can you even believe it? I just still can’t get over how easy it was with him. I dated M for two years, we never even talked about the future other than “what are we doing this weekend?” Then there was the year long drama with Coach. Then the Major. And each of those relationships definitely had some sort of drama or issue. There’s none of that with L. I guess that’s when you know he’s the one. All that drama goes out the window. I’m just really lucky I found him. He really is amazing and so nice and kind and smart and fun to be with!
Google images search
State colleges – this has not been a good couple of years for the Virginia state schools. Just some of the most devastating things have happened, starting with the Virginia Tech massacre back in 2007 and most recently, of course, the lacrosse murder at UVa. I just can’t even imagine all the heartbreak. I will say, that Hughley’s mother came out with the most touching statement today. It brought to mind that among all the heartbreak with Love and her family, there’s a family who still loves their son, regardless of what he’s done. Obviously the tragedy to the Love family, teammates and friends is insurmountable, but while you’re praying for their family, it’s important to remember there’s another family to keep in your prayers as they deal with a very different, but still very intense kind of pain.
virginiasports.com
Elevator mishap – on Monday coming to work, I got stuck in the elevator! Basically, the elevator doors wouldn't open. I tried taking it to various floors, but to no avail. After a few failed attempts, I then pressed the emergency button. A guy comes on the intercom and asks me repeatedly if I’m okay. I assure him I am, then he calls security. These brilliant security folks ask me if I'm okay, then (yelling through the door) if I tried pressing the “door open” or the button of the floor I’m on. Geez, really, hadn’t thought of that one! I had to let them know the elevator was trying to open, but just wouldn’t open all the way. (The door was opening about a centimeter, and the lights and dings and all the regular mechanics were going off). Meanwhile, because the elevators think that elevator is working, none of the other ones are coming down to the first floor. Everyone else in my building had to walk the stairs for the 25 minutes I was stuck in there! That's smart technology for you. The security people can’t do anything, so they let me know they’re calling in a guy from the elevator company. Now, I start panicking a little. How long is this going to take!? They let me know they have someone on site, and it’s only 15 minutes later that I’m freed. As I’m going up to my floor, is it sad or what that I sort of secretly wished I had been stuck longer so I wouldn’t have to go to work!?
shivamayer.com
Blake update – haven’t done one of these in awhile. Here she is at the Costume Institute Gala wearing Marchesa. All the blogs were all about her legs, and yes, she has some nice ones! Totally coveting! I feel like I should post pictures of her around me at all times, to persuade me not to eat.
wireimage.com
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Southern Living
Get excited! The much anticipated, MUCH overdue blog is finally here. Although, much to my dismay, it appears I waited too long to get out there and take photos. Spring has officially been sprung, and many of my flowers were already dead, while the summer ones hadn't quite all cropped up yet. But here we go. And I know you may look at these pictures and go "meh" but I am so proud of myself and all I've done in the yard. This is my first place, after all!!
Welcome to Better Homes and Garden by yours truly.
This first photo is of the front of my house. Super duper cute, isn't it!? I wish I had taken the photo a few weeks ago, the dogwood was so gorgeous when it was blooming, and the grass was much greener and lush.
Here's the swing that I recently purchased with some monetary help from TMS. L helped me put it together, then we shared a bottle of wine on it's inaugural swing. Behind my house, you'll notice my scraggly neighbor's yards. ARGH, having renters on one side of you is SO annoying!
Here's a close up of the pansies that I planted last winter, "Guarantee to rebound" and rebound they did. I also bought a bleeding heart this year, and the second I planted it, all the hearts fell off. Today, I was pleased to notice one single pink heart came back up. Can you see it!? I love the bleeding hearts because when I was younger, every spring my dad would take me to the garden shop and said I could pick out one plant and we'd plant it, and it was just for me. Each year, I picked a bleeding heart. I had a lot of trouble finding them, but for nostalgic reasons, would look every year. This year, I finally spotted one!
Moving to the back yard now, which gets a lot of sun, so while the possibilities are much greater back here, it's disappointing that all the gorgeous flowers are in the back where no one can see them, while in the front, I have to make do with the "shade" flowers.
This photo really disappoints me too, these irises were GORGEOUS just last weekend!!
Here's the side garden that runs along my back porch. I have some daisies that haven't bloomed yet, and some colored flowers that I don't know their names. Looks like one's doing much better than the other. Anyways, this is the garden I am most proud of. A few weeks back, I spent hours of blood, sweat and tears weeding the jungle this garden had become. Aren't the little tiki torches cute? I've had them for years since I've moved in and just this spring, pleased by how nice my garden looked, put them up. And PS, don't pay any attention to the grass, or lack thereof, yikes!
These flowers smell AMAZING! The first year I moved in, nothing bloomed, but in the following years, as I pulled up weeds and cut down overgrown bushes, these flowers grew. I think they smell like gardenias (at least like what Gardenia smells like at Bath and Body Works). Any thoughts on the flower?
Here's my vegetable "garden", planted with love. This past weekend, L and I planted tomatoes, squash and cucumber. While we were deciding what to buy, L mentioned "well, we can start with these, and next summer we can branch out and try more." Next summer!? Made me smile from the inside out.
Well, there it is. Hope you enjoyed.
xo, S
Welcome to Better Homes and Garden by yours truly.
This first photo is of the front of my house. Super duper cute, isn't it!? I wish I had taken the photo a few weeks ago, the dogwood was so gorgeous when it was blooming, and the grass was much greener and lush.
Here's the swing that I recently purchased with some monetary help from TMS. L helped me put it together, then we shared a bottle of wine on it's inaugural swing. Behind my house, you'll notice my scraggly neighbor's yards. ARGH, having renters on one side of you is SO annoying!
Here's a close up of the pansies that I planted last winter, "Guarantee to rebound" and rebound they did. I also bought a bleeding heart this year, and the second I planted it, all the hearts fell off. Today, I was pleased to notice one single pink heart came back up. Can you see it!? I love the bleeding hearts because when I was younger, every spring my dad would take me to the garden shop and said I could pick out one plant and we'd plant it, and it was just for me. Each year, I picked a bleeding heart. I had a lot of trouble finding them, but for nostalgic reasons, would look every year. This year, I finally spotted one!
Moving to the back yard now, which gets a lot of sun, so while the possibilities are much greater back here, it's disappointing that all the gorgeous flowers are in the back where no one can see them, while in the front, I have to make do with the "shade" flowers.
This photo really disappoints me too, these irises were GORGEOUS just last weekend!!
Here's the side garden that runs along my back porch. I have some daisies that haven't bloomed yet, and some colored flowers that I don't know their names. Looks like one's doing much better than the other. Anyways, this is the garden I am most proud of. A few weeks back, I spent hours of blood, sweat and tears weeding the jungle this garden had become. Aren't the little tiki torches cute? I've had them for years since I've moved in and just this spring, pleased by how nice my garden looked, put them up. And PS, don't pay any attention to the grass, or lack thereof, yikes!
Here's my vegetable "garden", planted with love. This past weekend, L and I planted tomatoes, squash and cucumber. While we were deciding what to buy, L mentioned "well, we can start with these, and next summer we can branch out and try more." Next summer!? Made me smile from the inside out.
xo, S
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Circle of Life
I’m back and have a lot to catch up on. I want to tell everyone about L meeting my parents, and about the wedding we went to last weekend, and some “talks” we’ve been having about “our future” but something more important has come up.
Beginnings: A friend at work had been pregnant for awhile and was ready to pop! The due date was soon, but she came in to work this morning at the normal time at 8. Since her due date was so soon, she had a doctor’s appointment that afternoon and she left feeling fine. However, at this appointment, the doctor told her that he was estimating the baby at 9 lbs! and they needed to do a C-section immediately! When I heard this news, it was sort of surreal. To see someone normal in the morning, then having an unexpected c-section later that afternoon sort of boggles the mind. How did this baby get so big? I guess it just didn’t want to leave the warmth of the womb! But it was time for a new life to be born, and the little girl was born healthy and at 9 lbs 1 oz last night! Mom, dad, and little baby girl are all doing well!
Endings: Later that evening, as I’m driving home from the gym, my phone rings. It’s a good friend from college calling to tell me that a good friend of ours died yesterday. 30 years young, dies unexpectedly. They’re not really sure what happened, I guess they’re doing an autopsy and should have more results soon. But basically he was complaining about not feeling well that morning, passed out, and died. Gone. 30 years old. I’m still just such in a complete state of shock. 30 years is too young for this. He was in good health, exercised regularly, just got married less than a year ago, owned a home in Arlington, had a great career with a promising future. And just like that, he’s no longer with us.
I know things like this happen. There’s no rhyme or reason for why people go when they do. We can only pray they are in heaven and that we’ll see them again one day. But the full circle of life was realized in one day for me, starting off with the celebration of a new life, and ending with the mourning of one taken too soon.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Random Musings on a Train
I actually wrote this yesterday, but didn't get the chance to post it.
It’s 5:50 am and I’m sitting on a northbound train, waiting to hear the last “ALL ABOARD” before heading north to Philadelphia. Why is there something so romantic about traveling by train? It brings to mind images of the Orient Express, murder and mystery, and love. Or it reminds me of sleepy summer country evenings, hearing the horn of the train out in the distance, just past the fields and tree line while you’re sipping a cold glass of sweet tea in the July heat. In reality, the train is nothing short of a longer, yet less irritating means of transportation than planes. My train is currently full of pre-teens on their way to a cheerleading competition, (thank goodness I didn’t get on that car!), sleepy business workers, and families heading up to DC, NYC, etc for spring break.
As for me, I’m heading up for a client meeting, and could not get a direct flight to Philadelphia at the hours I wanted. The total flight would have taken over 4 hours, complete with waiting in security, layovers, etc. I decided it would be better use of my time to spend those four hours working. Aren’t I a dedicated employee?
Can you believe there’s no wi-fi on this train? I was totally ready to use this as the perfect opportunity to catch up on my blogging, both reading and writing, but alas, I cannot surf the internet. I’ll just type this now and post it when I get to the Philadelphia office and access to the internet is restored.
In other news, on Saturday, I spent about 7 hours in my backyard, and it looks fantastic! I forgot I wanted to post some pictures! In fact, I will wait to tell you all the most exciting details of my back yard until I have the pictures. So, a post for another day.
I guess I should post an apple cider vinegar update. I couldn’t keep up with it on any sort of regular basis. It was too gross, and not the easiest thing to carry in your purse when you’re out and about. As I said earlier, it did clear up a stuffy nose, but that was the extent that I saw. I didn’t lose ½ lb a day, like some bloggers claimed. Not that I was that naïve to expect that, but I am always hopeful! I’m not opposed to trying it again, but it was hard to take, just really sour and bitter and made my whole mouth pucker up.
I do have some exciting news, this weekend, L is going to meet my parents!! I’m pretty excited about it! I’m definitely not one of those girls that brings home every single guy I ever go out with! When a guy meets my parents, you know it’s serious! I think meeting the parents is a big deal, and I really want to know a guy and know that I see myself with him long term before I want him to meet my parents. I know other people view it differently, they want to get the family approval early on, but the way I look at it, it’s important first and foremost what I think of him. And I want to have my feelings solidified before I introduce him around, even to my friends, much less my family. Plus, some guys get freaked out by meeting the parents, and if the solid relationship foundation isn’t there, then a relationship can quickly fall apart because the guy will think “this is moving too fast.” Ok, enough of that side bar, this weekend should be fun. I just know my parents are going to love him as much as I do!
It’s 5:50 am and I’m sitting on a northbound train, waiting to hear the last “ALL ABOARD” before heading north to Philadelphia. Why is there something so romantic about traveling by train? It brings to mind images of the Orient Express, murder and mystery, and love. Or it reminds me of sleepy summer country evenings, hearing the horn of the train out in the distance, just past the fields and tree line while you’re sipping a cold glass of sweet tea in the July heat. In reality, the train is nothing short of a longer, yet less irritating means of transportation than planes. My train is currently full of pre-teens on their way to a cheerleading competition, (thank goodness I didn’t get on that car!), sleepy business workers, and families heading up to DC, NYC, etc for spring break.
As for me, I’m heading up for a client meeting, and could not get a direct flight to Philadelphia at the hours I wanted. The total flight would have taken over 4 hours, complete with waiting in security, layovers, etc. I decided it would be better use of my time to spend those four hours working. Aren’t I a dedicated employee?
Can you believe there’s no wi-fi on this train? I was totally ready to use this as the perfect opportunity to catch up on my blogging, both reading and writing, but alas, I cannot surf the internet. I’ll just type this now and post it when I get to the Philadelphia office and access to the internet is restored.
In other news, on Saturday, I spent about 7 hours in my backyard, and it looks fantastic! I forgot I wanted to post some pictures! In fact, I will wait to tell you all the most exciting details of my back yard until I have the pictures. So, a post for another day.
I guess I should post an apple cider vinegar update. I couldn’t keep up with it on any sort of regular basis. It was too gross, and not the easiest thing to carry in your purse when you’re out and about. As I said earlier, it did clear up a stuffy nose, but that was the extent that I saw. I didn’t lose ½ lb a day, like some bloggers claimed. Not that I was that naïve to expect that, but I am always hopeful! I’m not opposed to trying it again, but it was hard to take, just really sour and bitter and made my whole mouth pucker up.
I do have some exciting news, this weekend, L is going to meet my parents!! I’m pretty excited about it! I’m definitely not one of those girls that brings home every single guy I ever go out with! When a guy meets my parents, you know it’s serious! I think meeting the parents is a big deal, and I really want to know a guy and know that I see myself with him long term before I want him to meet my parents. I know other people view it differently, they want to get the family approval early on, but the way I look at it, it’s important first and foremost what I think of him. And I want to have my feelings solidified before I introduce him around, even to my friends, much less my family. Plus, some guys get freaked out by meeting the parents, and if the solid relationship foundation isn’t there, then a relationship can quickly fall apart because the guy will think “this is moving too fast.” Ok, enough of that side bar, this weekend should be fun. I just know my parents are going to love him as much as I do!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Who wore it best?
So, this was an interesting one. I'm always a fan of the "who wore it best?" but this one struck me as odd. First, I don't think it looks particularly flattering on either of them, not to mention, I think the dress is ugly. So, why is it so popular?
Both are wearing Ports 1961
Kim Kardashian in July 2009 and Rachelle Lefevre in March 2010.
Why is the line from Clueless come to my mind?
Cher: Been digging through my trash?
Amber: As if!
Cher: Do you prefer fashion victim or ensembley challenged?
Wow, I loved that movie! I think I'll have to do a whole post on why it's such a great movie!
Happy Good Friday!!
Both are wearing Ports 1961
Kim Kardashian in July 2009 and Rachelle Lefevre in March 2010.
Both courtesy of Getty Images, KK - Jemal Countess, RL - Frazer Harrison
Why is the line from Clueless come to my mind?
Cher: Been digging through my trash?
Amber: As if!
Cher: Do you prefer fashion victim or ensembley challenged?
Wow, I loved that movie! I think I'll have to do a whole post on why it's such a great movie!
Happy Good Friday!!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang
This past Saturday, I went to see Chelsea Handler up in DC for her book promo tour. I can't even tell you how excited I was. I love her show and her books actually make me chuckle out loud (which is sort of an embarrassing site while your on the bike at the gym laughing at what you're reading). So, needless to say, I was very excited when I heard she'd be "in the area" and bought tickets that very first day. She performed at Constitution Hall, and there were thousands of people that came out for her show.
For those of you that don't know, Chelsea Handler is known for her heavy drinking and promiscuity, and the hilarity that ensues from her life. She's been likened to our generation's Joan Rivers. And she has fans, she has followers, and she is funny.
However, a stand up, she is not. When I see comedians, I tend to laugh. A lot. To the point where my sides are hurting and I'm embarrassing the people I'm with. At Chelsea, I might have chuckled a few times, but no full on laughs. And the thing is, no one was laughing. As I said, and am hoping I'm conveying the difference, there were chuckles, but not gaffaws, no straight up laughing. A lot of her jokes fell flat. Some went on way too long, and they weren't even funny to start with. For example, she went on a 20 minute soliloquy about masturbating at age 9. Mildly amusing, perhaps, but 20 minutes worth? Not a chance.
At the end of the night, I determined that Chelsea is someone you'd want to have sitting at your table at the bar. She's good with bantering off of others, she's good at telling stories, amusing to listen to, but not a stand up comic.
I'll still watch and enjoy her show. I still love talking about her books and just got her most recent book (to add to my collection of books waiting to be read). I think she's very clever and very funny. I think she has an amazing body. But I shan't be buying another ticket for a stand up show.
For those of you that don't know, Chelsea Handler is known for her heavy drinking and promiscuity, and the hilarity that ensues from her life. She's been likened to our generation's Joan Rivers. And she has fans, she has followers, and she is funny.
However, a stand up, she is not. When I see comedians, I tend to laugh. A lot. To the point where my sides are hurting and I'm embarrassing the people I'm with. At Chelsea, I might have chuckled a few times, but no full on laughs. And the thing is, no one was laughing. As I said, and am hoping I'm conveying the difference, there were chuckles, but not gaffaws, no straight up laughing. A lot of her jokes fell flat. Some went on way too long, and they weren't even funny to start with. For example, she went on a 20 minute soliloquy about masturbating at age 9. Mildly amusing, perhaps, but 20 minutes worth? Not a chance.
At the end of the night, I determined that Chelsea is someone you'd want to have sitting at your table at the bar. She's good with bantering off of others, she's good at telling stories, amusing to listen to, but not a stand up comic.
I'll still watch and enjoy her show. I still love talking about her books and just got her most recent book (to add to my collection of books waiting to be read). I think she's very clever and very funny. I think she has an amazing body. But I shan't be buying another ticket for a stand up show.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Frivilous Update
I received this email from my daily Glamour email that said “Sign That Spring Is on Its Way: The Return of Lauren Conrad’s Side Braid!”
gossipgirlinsider.com
Ok, a little bit of a rant today, huh? I’ll try to think of a positive post for tomorrow!
glamour.com
Now, I’m not sure when this photo was actually taken, but aren’t we just all over the side braid on LC? She’s just way too old to be pulling this look off. I’m sorry, but the crows feet don’t go with her teeny bopper hair. And as a very important side note, I think Lauren Conrad is great! As a general rule, I enjoy her choice of outfits and often times look to her for style inspiration, enjoyed The Hills, and as embarrassing as it is, read L.A. Candy. But come on, you’re a woman about town, time to stop looking like a 16 year old that doesn’t want to grow up!
Gossip Girl is one of my favorite shows, but I’m just not getting into the season this year. There is one story line I want to point out and comment on. So, Chuck’s mom “reappears” from the dead after she skipped out on him when he was born. And she has the audacity to be upset when he wants a DNA test? Please? How can you blame him? Of course, this was before I learned of the conspiracy, and realize a real mom would have understood. Also, sometimes I think they write story lines and are like “oh crap, how do we make this work?” For example, if Serena hadn’t talked to the mom to going back to Chuck, she would have left? So, now we’re supposed to believe she’s in it with Jack. Ugh, getting annoying.
And this is random, but I want to comment. I am getting so sick of these people who are “so busy” yet they have time to update Twitter and Facebook every 5 seconds. “Busy day today!” No, sorry, it’s not busy or you wouldn’t have had time to log in and update everyone on how “busy” you are.
This translates to real life too. You all know those people that are “too busy” to do anything, so they “delegate” all the work to you, but meanwhile, they have all the time in the world to call you and everyone else they know 100 times a day. Sheesh!
SJP update - I know it's been over a week!
I know, I know. I said I’d be better about blogging, and I haven’t. Well, as is customary for me, I’m always one for “today starts fresh” and “get serious starts today.” So, today is a new day, I’m starting fresh on my diet, my apple cider vinegar (more on that later), and on my blogging! Spring brings such new promises, doesn’t it?
Wicked
Yes, I know it’s been out for years and many of you have already seen it, but I live in Richmond
Although the play took a lot of liberties with the novel, I thought it was magnificent! The story line here was much more interesting, the songs were fabulous, the cast was amazing! And even though 5 little slips fell out of our playbill informing us many of the main characters would be replaced by understudies, I thought it was perfect, and can’t even imagine how the main cast could have done much better. Although we went with the alumni group, I specifically went with Charlotte, her husband K, and L. Even L was laughing and said he enjoyed it! The only thing I didn’t really care for (NOTE – Spoiler alert) was that the Scarecrow was Fiore (spelling, I know). Anyways, I get the other two, but not him. He didn’t tie as well into the Wizard of Oz’s character as the rest did, and I didn’t really buy it. But whatever, I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was a wonderful evening at the theatre.
ACV Diet
I guess it’s been about a week since I “started” the ACV diet (see earlier post). And I can’t say I’ve noted any changes, however, that could definitely be due to the fact that I haven’t really been religious about it. When I went out of town this weekend, I abandoned it altogether, and haven’t started back up again yet. Today I took my first dose, and will vow to get serious with this!
L Update
L and I are still going strong. Things are really going well with him! He officially lurrrves me! That’s right folks! You read it correctly, L loves me! And I love him too! Wow! This is serious! Anyways, I’m meeting his mom this weekend, and we’re planning a weekend in April to go up to see my parents, then we’re planning a long mini-vacation in Savannah
Weight Loss
As mentioned in opening paragraph, today is also Operation Get Serious with weight loss. I exercise plenty. At least 4 times a week, and often as much as 7 times a week, but I just cannot seem to get my eating in check, so I signed up for a biggest loser in my office, and the Meltdown at the Y, and it’s time to be held accountable! I think I’m going to do Weight Watchers also. Although, not sign up officially, but I have all the materials, I know I can do it as long as I have someone keeping my accountable weekly for weigh in! But I’ve been on a “diet” for 10 years, and each year, it gets worse and worse. I just can’t have L seeing me in a bathing suit in this disarray!!
Well, that’s it for the SJP update! I know this was long, but once I get back into the groove of things, it’ll be a lot easier!
xoxo
All images found from google images search
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Apple Cider Vinegar
Has anyone heard of this ACV diet? Apparently, drinking 2-3 teaspoons of ACV up to three times daily is supposed to be the most amazing thing that you can do for yourself.
The other day at work, a woman a work was telling me about how she takes it for headaches, sinus congestion, glowing skin, etc. She went on and on about all the magical properties it has, and how it's supposed to keep you healthy, young, and beautiful. She recommended Bragg's ACV, with the mother. I took a wiff and nearly passed out. That stuff is potent!
A little grossed out, but very curious, I went back to my desk to research and see what all the hype was about. And wowsers! Did the search pull up some interesting stuff! If you read the research on this stuff, it's supposed to be the best thing you can do for your body. People are never sick, people are losing weight, hair is more shiny, face is glowing, aches and pains are going away. Is this for real?
So, I decided I want to give it a try. I bought the Bragg's stuff, and put 2 teaspoons in about a shot of water. I took one when I woke up this morning, and I will admit, I was not hungry, it really did seem to curb my appetite. I had another little shot concoction before lunch, and even though I did finish my lunch, I was feeling full when normally the lunch I ate (sushi roll from Kroger) leaves me starving and wanting more. It's now 4 hours later, and I'm not hungry at all. It seems like it really might be working for appetite control, perhaps that's why people are losing weight? The other thing I noticed was my nose was really stuffed up, and within minutes, MINUTES I tell you, it cleared right up and I could breathe easily! All the stuff I read was coming true!!
Anyways, I'm going to test it out for 2 weeks. If I don't see any noticeable difference, I'm stopping, because the stuff is gross. Straight up gross, but it can't do any harm to test it out and see if it really is the miracle everyone claims it is! Stay tuned...
The other day at work, a woman a work was telling me about how she takes it for headaches, sinus congestion, glowing skin, etc. She went on and on about all the magical properties it has, and how it's supposed to keep you healthy, young, and beautiful. She recommended Bragg's ACV, with the mother. I took a wiff and nearly passed out. That stuff is potent!
A little grossed out, but very curious, I went back to my desk to research and see what all the hype was about. And wowsers! Did the search pull up some interesting stuff! If you read the research on this stuff, it's supposed to be the best thing you can do for your body. People are never sick, people are losing weight, hair is more shiny, face is glowing, aches and pains are going away. Is this for real?
So, I decided I want to give it a try. I bought the Bragg's stuff, and put 2 teaspoons in about a shot of water. I took one when I woke up this morning, and I will admit, I was not hungry, it really did seem to curb my appetite. I had another little shot concoction before lunch, and even though I did finish my lunch, I was feeling full when normally the lunch I ate (sushi roll from Kroger) leaves me starving and wanting more. It's now 4 hours later, and I'm not hungry at all. It seems like it really might be working for appetite control, perhaps that's why people are losing weight? The other thing I noticed was my nose was really stuffed up, and within minutes, MINUTES I tell you, it cleared right up and I could breathe easily! All the stuff I read was coming true!!
Anyways, I'm going to test it out for 2 weeks. If I don't see any noticeable difference, I'm stopping, because the stuff is gross. Straight up gross, but it can't do any harm to test it out and see if it really is the miracle everyone claims it is! Stay tuned...
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Birthday, GG, and Academy Awards, Oh my!
Ok, wow, so I don't know that I ever went a full week without a post. Let's see what I can fill everyone up on.
My birthday weekend was amazing. Saturday, I had organized a wine tour with 15 of my besties and it went so fabulously!! We went to three wineries in the Charlottesville area, and I couldn't have asked for a better time or weather. Everyone had an amazing time. My favorite part was how fluid the group was. I invited a lot of people from different walks of my life, and was a little concerned that people would be sticking to the 5 people they know, i.e. college friends all together, real life friends together, and those that only know me sticking with me. But the group all got along and everyone mingled with everyone. Everything went off without a hitch. We never got lost going to the vineyard. The van and my DD (an amazing coworker of mine) showed up on time, and we just had the best time. The Charlottesville area is so gorgeous. I do wish it had been a little later in the season, but I guess that's my mom's fault for having me in that weird time of year, not winter anymore, but not quite spring.
Here's some photos of the trip. You can see there's still snow on the mountains, even though it was around 60 degrees Saturday.
Sunday L and I went out for my actual birthday. We went to a relatively new restaurant down on the water front which has a gorgeous view of the sky line. The food was amazing there. I had the shrimp and grits while L had the stuffed shrimp. It was so romantic, the lights from the skyline twinkling off the river. Things are still going really well with him! He's amazing and I'm just so happy with him!!
I just finished Gossip Girl from this past Monday. I was a little disappointed, I must say. The Chuck/mom story line, and the Lily/ex-husband story line are a little boring. What's with Jenny becoming a certified drug mule and wanting the guy to ask her out after he totally rejected her? Come on girl! I counted down the days for this episode, and was sorely disappointed. But, I know GG will not disappoint in the future. I think I might need to get L to start DVRing GG. I'm thinking I'll love it even more on a huge HDTV, rather than my rinky dink TV from 2002.
Did anyone watch the Academy Awards? I did not, and not only because I was enjoying some good eating and good wine with L, but because I never have the patience for those shows. My favorite part is waking up the next morning to find out who won best picture, and seeing all the dresses.
Not a fan of Zoe Saldana (all photos courtesy of yahoo)
I know everyone loved Sandra Bullocks' look. Meh.
Looks like big poofs at the bottom of the dress and/or light lavendar are in this season.
My least favorite look. Nothing about this dress is right. And she has such an amazing body, which you can't even see in this dress. She just looks really pear shaped and washed out.
I think this was one of my favorite looks (and keeping in style with lots of va-va-voom at the bottom). I think the color looks amazing on her!
Also thought Miley looked pretty good (Ugh, I hate myself right now). But she looks sophisticated and I love the messy updo. Keeps her age appropriate.
Well, I think that's it for now. I'll try to keep up more. And I'm sorry I haven't been writing comments. I'm going to catch up on all I missed over the past week right now, but if not, I promise I'll be back in full effect tomorrow!
xoxo, S
My birthday weekend was amazing. Saturday, I had organized a wine tour with 15 of my besties and it went so fabulously!! We went to three wineries in the Charlottesville area, and I couldn't have asked for a better time or weather. Everyone had an amazing time. My favorite part was how fluid the group was. I invited a lot of people from different walks of my life, and was a little concerned that people would be sticking to the 5 people they know, i.e. college friends all together, real life friends together, and those that only know me sticking with me. But the group all got along and everyone mingled with everyone. Everything went off without a hitch. We never got lost going to the vineyard. The van and my DD (an amazing coworker of mine) showed up on time, and we just had the best time. The Charlottesville area is so gorgeous. I do wish it had been a little later in the season, but I guess that's my mom's fault for having me in that weird time of year, not winter anymore, but not quite spring.
Here's some photos of the trip. You can see there's still snow on the mountains, even though it was around 60 degrees Saturday.
Sunday L and I went out for my actual birthday. We went to a relatively new restaurant down on the water front which has a gorgeous view of the sky line. The food was amazing there. I had the shrimp and grits while L had the stuffed shrimp. It was so romantic, the lights from the skyline twinkling off the river. Things are still going really well with him! He's amazing and I'm just so happy with him!!
I just finished Gossip Girl from this past Monday. I was a little disappointed, I must say. The Chuck/mom story line, and the Lily/ex-husband story line are a little boring. What's with Jenny becoming a certified drug mule and wanting the guy to ask her out after he totally rejected her? Come on girl! I counted down the days for this episode, and was sorely disappointed. But, I know GG will not disappoint in the future. I think I might need to get L to start DVRing GG. I'm thinking I'll love it even more on a huge HDTV, rather than my rinky dink TV from 2002.
Did anyone watch the Academy Awards? I did not, and not only because I was enjoying some good eating and good wine with L, but because I never have the patience for those shows. My favorite part is waking up the next morning to find out who won best picture, and seeing all the dresses.
Not a fan of Zoe Saldana (all photos courtesy of yahoo)
I know everyone loved Sandra Bullocks' look. Meh.
Looks like big poofs at the bottom of the dress and/or light lavendar are in this season.
My least favorite look. Nothing about this dress is right. And she has such an amazing body, which you can't even see in this dress. She just looks really pear shaped and washed out.
I think this was one of my favorite looks (and keeping in style with lots of va-va-voom at the bottom). I think the color looks amazing on her!
Well, I think that's it for now. I'll try to keep up more. And I'm sorry I haven't been writing comments. I'm going to catch up on all I missed over the past week right now, but if not, I promise I'll be back in full effect tomorrow!
xoxo, S
Monday, March 1, 2010
My birthday week
Well, the big, much anticipated week has finally arrived! And fortunately, I am going to be kept very busy this week, otherwise, I don't think I could take the dragging out, the waiting for the weekend.
What is it? you may ask. Well, it's my birthday this Sunday! And not just any birthday. I will be 30! I'm very excited about this! Yes! I am excited about being 30! If you asked 15 year old me where she thought she'd be at 30, she'd probably give you something very similar to where I am now. Successful at work. Living a fun, always packed life, filled with exciting trips and events. Surrounded by a lot of loving, wonderful friends and family. And yes, not married. I was never one of those people who said "I always thought I'd be married by the time I was ...." I think she'd be very happy with the person she's turned out to be!
I was debating writing a whole entry about why it is people feel like they need to freak out when they turn 30. But I decided I had better things to do than to justify why I'm not afraid of turning 30, in fact, am relishing in it!
I'm definitely not one to be like "oh, it's my birthday week." Those people annoy me. No you don't get a whole week, you get a day! But this year, it seems like the celebrations are starting early!
Wednesday - book club which is always a good time. Not really birthday related, but since there's wine, I'm counting it!
Thursday - going to see Aisha Tyler at Funny Bone with a group of friends, and Pool Shark and Re get to meet L!!!
Friday - some of my friends are coming down early for the big event on
Saturday - rented out a passenger van and am taking a Charlottesville area wine tour with 15 girl friends!! How fun does Saturday sound? In case you're interested, here's the vineyards we're going to (and I'll have a follow up post after) King Family in Crozet. Veritas in Afton. And Jefferson in Charlottesville. And they've all been warned a big group is coming on Saturday!! I hope they're ready!
Sunday - brunch with the girls that stay the night, and then dinner with L
Monday - dinner/celebration with my parents.
What is it? you may ask. Well, it's my birthday this Sunday! And not just any birthday. I will be 30! I'm very excited about this! Yes! I am excited about being 30! If you asked 15 year old me where she thought she'd be at 30, she'd probably give you something very similar to where I am now. Successful at work. Living a fun, always packed life, filled with exciting trips and events. Surrounded by a lot of loving, wonderful friends and family. And yes, not married. I was never one of those people who said "I always thought I'd be married by the time I was ...." I think she'd be very happy with the person she's turned out to be!
I was debating writing a whole entry about why it is people feel like they need to freak out when they turn 30. But I decided I had better things to do than to justify why I'm not afraid of turning 30, in fact, am relishing in it!
I'm definitely not one to be like "oh, it's my birthday week." Those people annoy me. No you don't get a whole week, you get a day! But this year, it seems like the celebrations are starting early!
Wednesday - book club which is always a good time. Not really birthday related, but since there's wine, I'm counting it!
Thursday - going to see Aisha Tyler at Funny Bone with a group of friends, and Pool Shark and Re get to meet L!!!
Friday - some of my friends are coming down early for the big event on
Saturday - rented out a passenger van and am taking a Charlottesville area wine tour with 15 girl friends!! How fun does Saturday sound? In case you're interested, here's the vineyards we're going to (and I'll have a follow up post after) King Family in Crozet. Veritas in Afton. And Jefferson in Charlottesville. And they've all been warned a big group is coming on Saturday!! I hope they're ready!
Sunday - brunch with the girls that stay the night, and then dinner with L
Monday - dinner/celebration with my parents.
cafepress.com
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
House ehancements
I have been motivated lately to spruce up my house from The Motivation Station! I'd been wanting to paint my hallway a bright blue sort of color. Can't really describe it much more, other than I just know I'll know it when I see it. So, I think I'll do that this weekend. Those of you that know me know I like color, and lots of it! I'm more of a bold decorator, rather than an earth tone decorator. Here's a photo of my living room, how awesome does the orange walls go with the red couch? When would you ever have thought "orange is a great color for a living room?" But it works, doesn't it?
I'm thinking the overall vibe is a little too warm. I want a pop of some cool blue. I've been searching for couch pillows, but haven't found the right ones yet. But that's also the reason I want to paint the living room. When you first walk in, you can see the hallway in the back, so I'm thinking the contrast of blue will really stand out against the orange and look amazing!
I'm thinking of something along the lines of the Blue Feather below. Although, I'd love something more dramatic like Sea Ridge, but am afraid it might be too dark.
Well, I know this wasn't the most exciting post, but it had been awhile since I'd posted much of anything, and this is what popped in my mind to talk about.
I'll think of some new deal breakers and get back on the bandwagon soon!
I'm thinking the overall vibe is a little too warm. I want a pop of some cool blue. I've been searching for couch pillows, but haven't found the right ones yet. But that's also the reason I want to paint the living room. When you first walk in, you can see the hallway in the back, so I'm thinking the contrast of blue will really stand out against the orange and look amazing!
I'm thinking of something along the lines of the Blue Feather below. Although, I'd love something more dramatic like Sea Ridge, but am afraid it might be too dark.
behr colors
Well, I know this wasn't the most exciting post, but it had been awhile since I'd posted much of anything, and this is what popped in my mind to talk about.
I'll think of some new deal breakers and get back on the bandwagon soon!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Gossip Girl Returns March 8
And I couldn't be happier! I have been actively missing it! And it returns the day after my 30th birthday! Thanks for the wonderful gift CW! I know you did that just for me! :)
Yes, I am aware I will be 30 when this returns, but will be squealing like a giddy little school girl the whole time! I just think I need to keep L as far away from this as possible! This is a side he really doesn't need to see for awhile! ;) Although, in my defense, the target demographic is females aged 18-34.
tvfanatic.com
I'm totally digging the hot pink dress amist the sea of black.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Dealbreaker: Momma's Boy
Now, we all want a guy that treats his mom with respect, because there are tons of issues with guys that have bad relationships with their mom's, but one thing you do not want is a Momma's Boy!
What exactly is a Momma's Boy?
He may or may not still live at home, but regardless, he talks to his mom every day, he doesn't make a decision without consulting her first. He says "my mom this" and "my mom that" in every other sentence, usually paired with "my mom's cooking is better than yours" or "I never learned how to do laundry because my mom always did it."
Why you should stay away from him?
You'll never be good enough. You'll always live in the mom's shadow. And not only will you never be good enough in his eyes, you'll also never be good enough in her eyes. These men are usually the ones with the insufferable mother-in-laws. Besides, do you want to be a woman who is loved and protected by her man, or a mother to both him and your future kids?
Just to reiterate, you want a man that loves and respects his mother, just not one bordering on an Oedipus Complex!
What exactly is a Momma's Boy?
He may or may not still live at home, but regardless, he talks to his mom every day, he doesn't make a decision without consulting her first. He says "my mom this" and "my mom that" in every other sentence, usually paired with "my mom's cooking is better than yours" or "I never learned how to do laundry because my mom always did it."
Why you should stay away from him?
You'll never be good enough. You'll always live in the mom's shadow. And not only will you never be good enough in his eyes, you'll also never be good enough in her eyes. These men are usually the ones with the insufferable mother-in-laws. Besides, do you want to be a woman who is loved and protected by her man, or a mother to both him and your future kids?
Just to reiterate, you want a man that loves and respects his mother, just not one bordering on an Oedipus Complex!
"Oedipus and the Sphinx" by Gustave Moreau
improbable.com
catoonstock.com
"Momma's Boy" on NBC
Is anyone else noticing this is the second deal breaker that had it's own reality TV show (see Basement Dwellers)? If some writer/producer thought these people were so pathetic they deserved their own reality TV show, then you should not be dating them!
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