Life according to Lizzy Lizzard

Tonight I Am Enjoying....

2012-01-22T20:56:00.000-05:00

Have you seen any videos by Lindsey Stirling? While I think classical violin music is very pretty, I love how Lindsey breaks from tradition and does everything from hip hop to country music. She has a lot of talent and is extremely creative.

A Facebook friend posted this video the other day and I like it. I don't love Peter Pan but I love when people play on the theme as Lindsey does with this shadows video.

P.S. I'm about 85% percent sure I worked near her at BYU. She (or whoever I am thinking about) worked for a different department than me but our computers were semi near each other. I remember her well because her unique style and sweet personality impressed me, as well as the fact that she dropped everything and went on a mission. And if it's not the same girl, well I am sure Lindsey Stirling is pretty hip as well.

Veggie Laksa - My Epic Fail

2012-01-15T14:03:00.001-05:00

Doesn't that broth look SO GOOD?

My sister and I decided to use the recipe off this website to try veggie laksa, a recipe that has been floating around the web and looks super delicious. Well to make a long story short, thanks to some miscommunication and a forgetful mind, I bought the wrong ingredient and totally botched the recipe.

We started out on the right path and the soup looked delicious from the start, but as soon as I tasted it, I knew something wasn't right. It was super spicy and the Thai chili paste completely overwhelmed the coconut cream. I thought maybe we just had the proportions wrong. Maybe I had put too much chili paste in. Maybe I was just going crazy ... But it was too late and we had to eat it or toss it. So we ate it ... and it was painful.

I was very confused about how the recipe went so wrong. I didn't quit know what to expect, but I knew that anything close to what we had made would not be getting the same good reviews the recipe was. So I went back to the original source and there my mistake was glaring right at me. The recipe called for Thai CURRY paste, not Thai CHILI paste. VERY BIG DIFFERENCE!

Let's not even mention how everyone in the household was coughing like crazy when I was cooking the chili paste. Or how a piece of chili went down the wrong tube and I just about wanted to die. Or how I never want to see chili paste ever again.*

I do want to have a go at this recipe again. I see the potential in it and I still think it looks extremely delicious. Not to mention how easy it is to make. I will let you know how it goes next time.

*When I was looking for this in the international food store, I saw the shelves of gourmet fish sauce (paste?). I think I may now have to avoid any and all recipes that call for fish sauce. Just imagine little glass bottles with big dead fish in them. Barf! I know that normal fish sauce probably doesn't have the actual fish in it, but my mind has already been tainted.

Death to the Penny

2011-12-08T22:03:00.000-05:00

I found this video to be very entertaining and interesting. Does the U.S. really need the penny? I had never seriously considered about whether we do or not but this video makes a compelling argument that we don't.

via: Freakonomics

Justin Timberlake : My Night At The Marine Corps Ball

2011-11-14T17:03:00.000-05:00

I have always respected Justin Timberlake though I usually hide that little fact about me. But I am admitting it right now because I would like to share with you something that he wrote : My Night At The Marine Corps Ball.

We all have our own individual views on war... But, doesn't that speak to just another thing that makes this country so special?? The fact that we can all wake up every morning and BE individual with a pure sense of freedom..?

Click here for the full text.

I love how he wrote something positive related to the military. So often celebrities only comment when they have something negative to say about politics or our military. Isn't it nice to read something positive for once?

"Listen to your Doctor!"

2011-10-11T22:00:00.000-04:00

I've never posted this kind of email junk, especially as they are nearly impossible to attribute to a source. But I thought this one was funny enough. Thanks goes to my father in law for sending it to me (Many blue moons ago. Finally catching up on email...again!!!).

Listen to your Doctor!

Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true? A: Your heart only good for so many beats, and that it... Don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually.. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap.

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio? A: Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio two to one, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program? A: Can't think of single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No pain...good!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you? A: YOU NO LISTEN! Food are fried these day in vegetable oil. In fact, they permeated by it. How could getting more vegetable be bad for you?!?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle? A: Definitely not! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach.

Q: Is chocolate bad for me? A: Are you crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around!

Q: Is swimming good for your figure? A: If swimming good for your figure, explain whale to me..

Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle? A: Hey! 'Round' is shape!

remember:

Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - a burrito in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO, what a ride!!"

AND.....

For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans..

CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

"Women At the Wheel"

2011-10-11T21:29:00.000-04:00

I want to share this video but I am not sure if there is a way to embed it. So you will just have to click here.

P.S. Not that I don't think men can be just as bad.

Journey Through History

2011-10-02T15:12:00.001-04:00

One of our pictures of Monticello

"I am savage enough to prefer the woods, the wilds, and the indepenance of Monticello, to all the brilliant pleasures of this gay capital [Paris] . . . . for tho' there is less wealth there, there is more freedom, more ease, and less misery."

-Thomas Jefferson (1785 September 6)

Old Pictures of Me

2011-09-27T08:05:00.000-04:00

I am hoping one of those bowls was my brothers because those are some big bowls.

I was so bad at ballet. The teacher was always having to tell me to fix my form. It very much blows in this picture.

This last one is of me and my little sister. This picture is one of my favorite of us. We used to play a lot on this bed though I am not sure why. I love her lots.

Possible 2012 Movie Release

2011-09-26T10:52:00.000-04:00

A play that is very close to my heart after seeing it in London will be adapted into movie form to be released in 2012. I am already so stoked for it. If you haven't heard yet, I am talking about Les Miserables. Tom Hooper, the director of The King's Speech (which I haven't seen and am still dying to see), will also be directing Les Miserables. That gives me high hopes as everybody loved The King's Speech and he also did John Adams which was amazing.

Casting so far:

Hugh Jackman - Jean Valjean - Sounds good to me.

Anne Hathaway- Might be Fantine - I could see her doing well in this play. Hopefully I am right.

Helena Carter - Madame Thenardier - After her role in Sweeney Todd I have no doubt she will be successful at this.

Russell Crow - Inspector Javert - I am still trying to get my head wrapped around this.

Emma Watson - Rumored to be Cosette - Another one I'd almost have to see to believe.

I know what I am seeing on the big screen next year (now that there is no Harry Potter) and I can't wait.

Side note to the producers: There will be no excuse good enough if this show gets canceled or put on the back burners.

I have included a video for your viewing pleasure.

Samantha Barks was in the production we saw in London! I miss it so much.

Day Six of Trip to San Fran

2011-09-24T12:31:00.000-04:00

Monday, the day we headed home, was a crazy day so I had to blog about it for my own sake.

We had planned one hour to get to the airport but found out just as we were leaving that it was actually an hour and a half. Add that to the fact that we left a bit late and we started out the trip stressed.

We punched the address into our gps and began to go. Then we saw we were low on gas but the decison was made to keep on going and hope we could make it. Then I remembered we needed cash to go through the tolls and we had run out of cash. Again the decision was made to not get cash and hope we didn't need it (I don't remember what the logic was there but it doesn't matter now).

I was so stressed!!!. I only continued to get stressed as the gps started taking us a weird way and the trip got longer and longer. We had actually started out using my phone's gps because our gps was taking forever to work but when it did start working we started to follow it. Our gps was taking us a different way than my phone and I knew it and I was worried we were getting lost. We finally figured out that the gps was set to avoid all the tolls, which is why it was taking us a strange way. AHHH!!!

It was at about this time that we figured out we were too low on gas to continue very far so we had to find a gas station. At the gas station we couldn't get the dumb tank open to fill up the car. We were freaking out!!! We got to the point where we didn't know what to do except call the rental car company. Thankfully I found out how to open it thanks to the internet and we didn't have to go through the process of trying to contact someone. We filled the car up, got some cash, and were on our way with the gps settings changed so it wouldn't avoid the tolls.

At this point we were an hour out from our flight time. I just KNEW we wouldn't make out flight.

Once we changed the gps it was a short trip. We got to the airport and dropped off the car. That took less than 10 mins but then we had to take the tram to the terminals. When we finally reached the terminal we had maybe 40 mins left. Thankfullyyyyyyy the airport wasn't that crowded at this time so we checked in and got through security in enough time to make our flight with time to spare.

We were soo blessed. Had the airport been any more crowded I am not sure we would have made it. I am so thankfully too that the San Fran Airport had efficient and fast security.

Our flight was okay and we thought we were home free. But then when we landed we found out our connection flight was going to be late and at about that point I started to feel super sick. I spent the next half hour in the bathroom. After that we went and got food (I can't fly on an empty stomach. Yuk!). When we finally headed to the terminal, after getting more caramel apples, we saw the weather outside. It was pouring rain and apparently they had been getting bad rain off and on for while. I didn't think we would get out of there anytime soon and was ready to stay put for many hours.

Thankfully we were blessed again and the weather cleared up enough for us to take off.

The only problem after that was how long it took to get our luggage at the Dulles airport. Doesn't it suck to sit around and wait forever for your luggage? Blah!

Day Five of Trip to San Fran

2011-09-23T13:06:00.000-04:00

Short post for this day as it was Sunday so we didn't do very much.

We started the day with early morning Sacrament Meeting with the hubby's sister's family. And then went home to rest. We spend a better part of the day just relaxing. After a delicious mexican dinner, we went on a long walk to a glass beach. I don't remember what body of water we were near but it is home to many birds and the land around it has some pretty strange plants so it made for a pleasant walk. Plus the tiny glass beach was awesome. And yes I kept a few of my favorite pieces of glass. Not sure what I will do with them but that's besides the point.

After the walk we had some key lime pie, a new favorite of mine and relaxed with one of our nieces. After she headed to bed we were treated with key lime pie ice cream bars. Those are an amazing invention. It's like an ice cream sandwich but the outside is graham cracker and the middle is key lime pie gelato (At least I think it was gelato. Maybe it was ice cream.). It was stupendously good.

Bed time after that.

Here are a few pictures:

Day Four of Trip to San Fran

2011-09-22T12:41:00.001-04:00

Day four of our San Fran trip started with some relaxation and then a trip to the Oxbow Public Market to get some tacos at CASA. They use fresh produce and I believe they do use free range meat as well. Between the hubby and I, we ate three tacos. He got the lamb taco, I got the steak taco, and we split the Mahi Mahi taco. The hubby loved his taco, I loved my taco, and we somewhat enjoyed the Mahi Mahi taco. For me the problem with the Mahi Mahi was that it was too fishy, but the vegetables on the taco were outrageously good. So I skipped the fish and ate the vegetables. But I would get the steak taco all over again.

After that we wandered around a bit and picked up some ice cream at Three Twins Ice Cream. I am usually not that much of an ice cream critique. I like my specific flavors that only certain places carry but cookies and cream is pretty much the same anywhere you go. Or so I thought. After we had both taken bites, we looked at each other and exclaim, "Oh my goodness this is so good. How? How can it be this good." The flavor was amazing. The texture was amazing. It was just amazing. In fact, I want some right now. Ice cream will never be the same again. By the way, look at these ice cream specials you can purchase the next time you are at Three Twins Ice Cream:

After that we met up with the hubby's sister and her kids and headed out to do a bit of touring of the Napa area. We saw many famous stores and restaurants including The French Laundry, Bottega, Napa Style, and Bouchon. Later, the hubby and I also made a stop at The Culinary Institute Of America. It was fun to learn about this area. I had no idea about all these famous foodie meccas. I felt so uneducated. I just wish I had more time to eat at the places and to explore the stores.

Random, but one of the stores, Dean & Deluca, had a counter of truffles and chocolates. I'm usually not much of a fan of these but some of them looked outrageously amazing, almost like gems. Too much for my wallet though.

After the school we stopped at the famous winery, Castello di Amorosa, that is designed to be like an authentic castle. The hubby loved it! I have to say they did a great job building it. Wish we could have gone inside but we didn't want to pay the money as it mostly consisted of a wine tasting fee and we don't drink.

Dinner that night was uneventful. Just some lame Italian restaurant. But after our evening activity we got an oreo dessert at Rutherford Grill that was pretty good. The picture below didn't turn out well. The whip cream stole the show. But it gives you a hint as to what it was like.

Our evening event had to be one of the highlights of our trip. Calistoga, near Napa, is famous for their mud baths so we decided to try it out. Paying $80 (half price), we thought it would at least be at a nice spa. But nope! The spa looked like an motel. Inside it looked like a spa (a cheap one) but the actual room where we took the mud baths looked like a utilities room. This is probably for easy cleanup but it makes it so unromantic for a couples spa. The mud was a bit claustrophobic as I suspected it would be, but I got used to it and it was actually kind of fun. Supposedly the mud is healthy for you and good for your skin and muscles. It's just awkward because you don't really sink in the mud so you have to kind of wiggle your way in and push the mud up around your body, all while not touching the heated bottom of the tub. The only question I can't get out of my mind is how that mud could be sanitary in the slightest. Ugh!

Afterward, and after a shower, we got in a hot tub that was actually too hot to be fun after a few minutes. Next, we relaxed while wrapped in a blanket to slowly cool our body temperature down. Finally it was the hot tub outside in supposed mineral spring water. That was nice because by then we had cooled down and weren't so overheated and could take as long as we wanted.

It was a strange experience but it was fun. If you are in the area and want to do something different, do the mud baths. But don't think it will be the slightest bit romantic.

Sorry no pictures of it. Mud baths aren't necessarily pretty.

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Most interesting thing learned: Have you heard of The French Laundry. If not, click here.

Most random experience: The mud baths of course. So strange!

Wish we had done: Taken a class at The Culinary Institute of America. Eaten at one of Napa's famous restaurants (This trip was last minute so there was no planning involved. Before your trip to Napa take a moment to make some reservations). Bought food at one of the stores in Napa and had a picnic.

What I miss: Their grapes. So good. But lets not forget the ice cream and steak tacos. Yummm!!!

Social Issues to Consider

2011-09-21T19:25:00.001-04:00

I would not consider myself a feminist by any measure, or at least not by today's scale. In fact, I think many aspects of feminism have been taken to the extreme. But that doesn't mean I don't believe women have rights and that I don't feel strongly on some social issues dealing with women. Because I do.

My friend Sally shared the article, Marry-Or Else, on facebook and I felt the need to pass it on. We in the U.S. sometimes forget that some of the problems women face in the Middle East also occur on our soil. We forget because the problems occur on such a small scale with limited to no impact on us, making it easy to ignore and forget. But that doesn't make the problems any less important. These problems include slavery, forced marriage, and honor killings. All wrong, and all still occurring around the world.

Do educate yourself and if you feel like you can help, act now! And if you know of a way we can help, please do share.

Words in red have links attached.

Call Me Crazy But...

2011-09-21T18:45:00.000-04:00

I AM SO EXCITED FOR CRIMINAL MINDS TONIGHT!!!

My day turned right side up when I received the news that tonight was the season premier.

I Am a Certified Bum Today

2011-09-18T00:21:00.000-04:00

I have been overworked (never left work on time this week) and sick so today I did nothing. And it felt good.

I had planned to go to the farmers market and maybe a yard sale but my husband rolled over in bed this morning and exclaimed, "It's ELEVEN!" WOOPS! Most farmers markets and yard sales close around noon so instead of rushing, I relaxed and took my time getting out of bed. It ended up being a rainy morning anyways.

I then bummed!

I watched Jessica Simpson's movie Major Movie Star, not because I thought it would be good but because nothing else was on and I was going to allow myself to enjoy wasting time for once. Then it was Lifetime for a few hours. Then the movie Prom. Then more Lifetime. Then the new X-Men movie. Then the rest of a historical movie entitled The Couple.

This blog post, my finger nails, and washing our towels were the most productive things I did all day. And its been amazing. I feel like I haven't taken a day to bum like this for almost a year.

As for what I recommend out of all the things I watched, my reviews are as follow:

Major Movie Star: Watch it if it's the only thing on, and even then, you probably shouldn't.

Prom: I like lame chick flicks and teen movies sometimes and this movie would be one of those. It was such an unrealistic movie and so typical, but still so cute.

X-Men First Class: A must!!!!!

The Couple: If you like WWII movies about the Holocaust this is an interesting movie. It's a bit slow, and by far, not your typical movie on this subject. But it is very interesting and leaves you on the edge of your seat at parts of it. Plus, it's streamable on Netflix.

Jon and I are leaving town for a few days. When I get back I will finish up the San Fran posts. Until next time.... :)

P.S. I think BYU is losing the football game. There is lots of yelling upstairs. But I confess, I don't care. I'm not a sports person. Though I do love BYU!

P.P.S. Just to spruce this post up a bit, here is one of the best things I have seen on the web this week:

Source: thesweetestoccasion.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Click on the red. It will take you to the instructions on how to accomplish this adorable candle holder. I can't wait for an excuse to try it.

Worst Lunch Ever

2011-09-14T22:25:00.001-04:00

A kid that takes lunch at the same time as me but usually says little, was complaining to me today about Chef Boyardee. I was really confused until I figured out what had happened and how upset he really was.

He, already to eat, opened up his can of ravioli. In it was a can full of sauce and ONE ravioli. ONE!!!

There went his lunch.

I told him to call or email them an complain. Either he is just that unlucky or they had a serious breech in quality control one day. He called right that moment and I think they are sending him coupons or something to compensate him.

Now I know some of you out there would say that Chef Boyardee is, in itself, the worst lunch ever. But I do feel for him. The ravioli is is the only Chef Boyardee product I haven't given up. As gross as that may be.

A Senior Moment

2011-09-14T21:51:00.000-04:00

The hubby showed me a cute and funny video today and just on the off chance that you haven't seen it yet, here it is:

Did You Know...

2011-09-10T23:08:00.000-04:00

Did you know that if you have drivers insurance, as you should, you probably don't need rental insurance? We didn't for a long time. In fact, it wasn't until I randomly looked up some information online, and verified it with my insurance, that we knew. And that was just a few weeks ago.

The hubby and I have rented many cars in the last few years. That means we have spent hundreds of dollars on rentals that we didn't have to, being that it's the insurance that really drives up the cost. That is hundreds of dollars we could have saved. Bummer! But you live and learn I guess.

If you have any questions or want to verify what's covered (including whether international rentals is covered), call your insurance. They will be happy to let you know. And don't let the rental car company talk to you into it if you don't need it. It is such a waste of money. Unless you plan to go off roading or something, in which case it's probably against you rental contract anyways.

Day Three of San Fran Trip

2011-09-09T20:58:00.000-04:00

Friday the hubby spent the morning getting our rental car. As transportation is expensive into the city, we needed somewhere to store our luggage for the day, and were going out to the Napa area, we decided to get a rental car. And we were lucky enough to find a very good deal.

When he gets back and I walk out of the hotel with the luggage I kind of stop, pause, and say "That wasn't the car I rented." I had rented just your typical small compact car. He came back with

"Oh they just asked if I wanted to upgrade it for a few dollars a day and I kind of impulsively said yes." Well it's a good thing we got a deal on it in the first place. The hubby sure did enjoy driving it though.

We drove to the Golden Gate Park which is a huge park inside San Fran. I had wanted to see it the trip before but our GPS hadn't been able to find it. It took us a bit of work to make it there this time but we did. And for anybody who might want to go and is driving, there is parking inside the park. In the more popular areas of the park you may have to pay, but there is parking.

We drove and walked around a little and then went to see the Japanese Tea Garden. We had to pay for parking here because we were too lazy to drive all around looking for a parking space as it was the most popular area because of the Gardens and the museums. But that's okay.

We very much enjoyed the Japanese Tea Garden. It was really pretty.

Someday when I have my own secret garden, part of it will look like a Japanese Tea Garden. So peaceful, so pretty.

We then went and relaxed and walked around this beautiful lake. It had a waterfall, gorgeous bridges and many boaters. I really enjoyed seeing all the cute old men relaxing by the lake, listening to their music, and just enjoying the day. And the cute young couples on dates!

After that we hopped back into the car and drove to another spot. This part of the park was less populated so parking for free was easy. We walked around, saw the bison, saw some fly fishers, and finally found some bathrooms. Never the easiest thing to find when you actually need one.

I do have to say that the bison were lame. There weren't many, at least that you could see, and they have a billion fences around the land. I know it's for safety purposes to protect them and us, but it's more depressing than cool to see.

The park was really awesome for being in a city. It was huge and very lovely. You could hike for hours in it. We didn't though because my feet and legs hurt from wandering around San Fran for hours the previous day. Maybe another trip. I highly recommend stopping in at the park for at least a few hours, if not the whole day. Bring a picnic too. It's a lovely place for one.

After that we drove around and viewed the park a bit more and then headed on to Jon's sister's house.

Jon's sister lives near Napa so that evening we went on a double date with her and her husband. She wanted us to have a taste of the Napa experience and took us to this new restaurant called Kitchen Door in the Oxbow Market.

Dinner was amazing. The food was so flavorful, fresh, and delicious. I ate two whole plates. Not even kidding about that. I had the Tomato Salad with cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese as well as Korean style Short Ribs with fried rice. Yummy! Everyone really enjoyed their food. Our only complaint was that you have to spend a lot on drinks because they only sold specialty sodas. Which, unless you have amazing taste buds, there isn't always much difference between those sodas and your typical sodas. But who cares about that little problem. It sort of makes it fun anyways.

I crave that food everyday now. I will miss it. If you are ever nearby, GO! You probably won't regret it.

After that was a movie at his sister's home and then bed. It was time for sleep that was very much needed. Dang time zone difference.

Rain Rain Go Away....Please Come Back Another Day

2011-09-09T00:11:00.002-04:00

It has been an insane year for weather and weather disasters, especially here in the United States. I thought we had gotten all we would once the hail came, the earthquake hit and the hurricane passed. People got hurt and damage was done but not to the extent that was possible. But it seems that these crazy weather incidences just wont stop.

Please keep those states that are dealing with wild fires, including Texas, in your prayers. They could use it.

Also keep the east coast in your prayers. We are dealing with torrential rains that are much worse than anything we experienced from the hurricane. It's quiet now, and hopefully will remain so, but we just never know.

I can't think of the last time we have had this much rain. Homes are flooding, some washing away. Cars are in the same situation. A few lives lost, hopefully no more. We joke about it. Where is Noah's Ark when you need it? But really, it's a bit scary, especially for those that live near any body of water. Luckily for us, we live in a pretty safe zone if there was to be any flooding in my town. But not my work. I took the following picture after work.

There is a creek near my work that I usually don't think twice about because it's never too high and I can almost never see it from where I am. But today was a different story.

Will this nutty weather ever end? I fully expect a crazy winter now....filled with lots and lots of snow.

I took this picture during the hail storm we had. Looking at it now, it seems to lame. But at the time the ice chunks seemed huge and the storm came out of nowhere.

I just can't believe that classes are already being canceled this year for weather. Lucky ducks. Such an East Coast thing though. Canceling class because of the weather. But you should be jealous West Coast. Your missing out. Really truly though, once you work full time, sucky weather is just sucky weather. You still have to drag yourself to work. :( And that's when being an adult stinks!

Day Two of San Fran Trip

2011-09-07T23:28:00.001-04:00

Most of day two (Thursday) was spent wandering the city. I got an early start thanks to the time zone difference which was nice. Taking their transit system from the airport to the city isn't cheap. There and back is almost $20. Ouch! But I bit the bullet.

In the city I pretty much just wandered around and did some light shopping. I hit the following neighborhoods:

Union Square : Got a sweater & scarf at Forever 21. Hit up an awesome stationary store and got postcards. Stayed away from the dangerous and above my budget stores. Awesome shopping area though.

China Town : Got some small items. Didn't want to eat there by myself and all the stores became the same after a while so I toured it for a bit and then headed back to Union Square. I wish I had remembered to go to the fortune cookie factory or kite shop. Maybe next time.

Mission : Took the BART here. Had to get help because I still didn't understand the transportation system. Wandered around. Hit up a thrift store that was huge but I didn't feel like looking very much. Area is known for thrift stores though, I think. I felt a bit out of place in this part of town. I felt like I was the only one that didn't actually live there. Cool Spanish vibe though. I hadn't eaten all day and I was beginning to feel it so I said a small prayer that someplace I could eat would catch my eye. A few minuets later it did.

I ate at Weird Fish. They are known for their fish tacos and local sustainable dining. I don't like fish that much but wanted to give it a try. I started with a beet salad that as amazing. And then got some fried fish tacos. The fish itself was so so but everything else on the taco was so delicious. I would high recommend those tacos to anybody who likes fish. I am glad I ran into this restaurant and recommend it for a light lunch if you are in the Missions.

Noe Valley : I think this was the last neighborhood I went to. It was a nice neighborhood with lots of cute homes and fun stores. Just grabbed a doughnut here and browsed the shops until my feet started hurting. I then wandered around a bit while looking at my map, trying to find another BART to take back. I had walked here from the Mission and didn't want to walk all the way back to the station I started at. I headed toward a station on the map, couldn't figure out exactly where I needed to go, and decided just to head back so that I wouldn't get too lost and because I was too tired to walk up more hills. Thankfully there was one right in the Missions at the bottom of the hill I had walked up to on my way to Noe Valley. It was much closer than the one I had originally been in and was such a blessing.

I got back home after only having to backtrack once on the BART! Not to shabby. I was going in the right station but had to switch trains one more time and didn't know that.

I hit up the lame gift shop at the hotel and then rested with my hubby back at the hotel until dinner. We drove into San Fran and ate at a restaurant in the Westin Hotel with Jon's coworkers. The Westin is right in Union Square, has 3+ places to eat in it, and even has a Victoria Secret which I think is pretty convenient and smart. I got some sort of steak and they had a herb butter on the side that was sooo delicious on the meat. I just recently found out how good butter is with steak. I highly recommend it. The meal was top notch and the company was enjoyable.

Upon going back to out hotel we borrowed a knife from one of the restaurants and ate our caramel apple. It was so delicious. I highly recommend caramel apples from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. They are my absolute favorite treat.
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Weirdest quote I heard : A sales lady on the phone giving advice to a friend "that's so capitalism of you...don't do it." So fitting for San Fran.

Most random find I didn't buy : Velvet Toms at Neiman Marcus

Lesson learned : Super fresh veggies really are the best.

Thank you to : The super nice guy who helped me find the BART at the airport. To the nice lady who told me which BART to take to the Mission. To the nice waitress who didn't make me feel awkward for eating alone. To the other nice waitress who let us borrow a knife without judging us.

Sorry to : The guy in the elevator. I might have scared you when I started pointing with the knife. I forgot it was in my hand.

Day One Of Trip To San Fran

2011-08-31T19:29:00.066-04:00

For now my blog will be my trip journal of sorts. Sorry for all the useless information.

I barely got out of work "on time" today, burnt my tongue eating lunch quickly, got to the airport too early for a domestic flight, and realized I should have just eaten subway at the airport. This would have avoided the burnt tongue and filled up the two hours. Instead I read a too short magazine and listened to the phone conversations and video games of those women around me who had no sense of public courtesy.

First half of flight went well. It was short and I read through it. Then I was at the airport with no clue on how to waste 2 hours. Soon I realize it was the airport with:

and sought out a delicious carmel apple to take with me to San Fran.

Then I pass a little spa and after consulting with my husband that it was okay, I went and did this.

My job is horrible on my hands and nails and I always said I would get my nails done sometime when I would be on a vacation so I could enjoy having them done. That was finally accomplished. One finger is a tiny bit messed up already but that is typical for me I guess. Which is another reason I don't often get my nails done. I am too OCD for such a task.

The North Caroline airport has great places to eat but I didn't get any food because I thought we were being fed on the airplane. Turns out that isn't the case so I had to purchase some food on the flight. Not too badly priced and the food was actually delicious so that turned out better than expected.

I love to people watch and the only person to watch on the flight was a young man sitting diagonally to me. I noticed him because he was dressed in the whole casual jeans with a button down shirt with a hat with converses getup! As I watched him throughout the flight, trying to figure him out, I noticed two things. He might do something related to education, and he drinks a lottt. He drank alcohol, soda, coffee, etc. etc. almost the whole 5 hour flight. Holy moly! And he certainly didn't go to the bathroom often enough for all that. And he was probably drunk by the time he got off the flight. At one point he asked me if I was the person he was talking to in the back of the plain. Um no, I hadn't even moved from my seat. So it was dark, but i'm still guessing I either had a twin on that flight or he was a bit tipsy. Or it was a super awful way to try and start up a convo with me.

The flight felt super long. It sort of was I guess, being that it was 5+ hours. I slept a bit but forced myself to wake up when I got uncomfortable and knew I was just destroying myself by sleeping too much. I got tons read today on my flights which is quite the accomplishment for me. Before this year, I always got distracted and hardly got anything read on flights. I might actually meet my 25 book goal this year.

I got in late...super late on east coast time. Husband is super tired but was nice enough to meet me at the airport. He flew out on a much earlier flight. He is asleep now as I type away. I am excited for sleep to and want to rest up before tackling San Fran all by myself tomorrow. I am already a little apprehensive. But I am determined to do this!

Our hotel is a pretty nice Hyatt. I will have to take pictures of it tomorrow (at husbands request). I love hotels so I will enjoy this. Oh and it has a gift shop. I LOVEEE gift shops. I don't buy much but I love browsing. Can't wait.

San Francisco

2011-08-30T12:42:00.000-04:00

I am taking a last minute trip to San Francisco to accompany my husband on a business trip. I do not usually take last minute trips like this, unless somebody died, so this is new for me. I am a bit stressed but hopefully it will be fun. I will be getting lots more time to explore San Francisco than we had a few months ago when we were out that way so I am excited for that. Too bad I will be doing a lot of it alone while my husband is in meetings. Another thing I have never done, toured alone. Eek! Hopefully I don't become a baby about it and stay inside the hotel all day because there are lots of neighborhoods I want to explore.

When I get back, I will make sure to post about this trip as well as finally catch up on posts about my last big trip.

Phone Dump

2011-08-28T22:10:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures from my phone showing what I have been up to as of late (Excuse the quality. I do not have an ipone quality camera on my phone.) :

Concerts on Fridays at Landsdown Resort!

Pulling pranks at work on really boring days. We saw this idea randomly in passing on pinterest and were so bored my coworker decided to test it out. It ended up being really funny.

Good food! Ashley at That is all. posted about Market Salamander is Middleburg and it reminded me that I needed to go there sometime for lunch. I had been there with my dad for a political party and the catered food was great but I had been wanting to try out the cafe food. My sister and I went on Saturday, right before the rain started, and it was delicious. Seeing as it's not as far as I thought it was from where I live, I might have to go more often.

August 2011 Earthquake

2011-08-23T17:03:00.000-04:00

The weather has been very strange lately. Last week we had a wild storm which included huge hail. I actually got a picture but haven't gotten it off my camera yet. We were in the middle of a scary movie so it was perfect timing for the storm to hit. I was worried for my car but thankfully the storm left no damage behind.

The real news though is what happened today. As most of you have already hear, the east coat felt a pretty nice size earthquake ( 5.9 last I heard) today.

I was on my computer at work and I hear this weird noise up near the ceiling. I mutter to whoever wanted to listen, "What the heck is that noise." I heard a noise that sounded sort of like a bird fluttering near our ceiling. I work in a tiny office in the back of a warehouse. Less than a minute latter the whole place starts shaking and shaking. My coworker and I jump up trying to figure out what was going on and it took us a few seconds to realize it was an earthquake.

In no time it had stopped. But my heart kept racing and took a bit of time to calm down. It was my first earthquake. My area of VA usually only gets hit with snow and rain storms. We almost never get earthquakes and hurricane and tornadoes. If we do, they are small and never near where I live. Once, when I was out of state going to college, my family saw a tornado and that in itself was crazy. That's why I always feel safe in the area where I live.

It was a crazy moment. But we went on business as usual when it was over. And thinking back it seems crazy that buildings and monuments in DC are being evacuated, people are leaving work early, and flights are being postponed. It seems even crazier that the National Cathedral was damaged. The earthquake didn't seem big enough to accomplish that despite how scary it was.

And ultimately it makes me feel more sorrowful for those people that have had to live through more massive & damaging earthquakes.

If you want more information here are some articles:

Fox New on National Cathedral

CNN on Earthquake

Lands' End

2011-08-18T13:07:00.000-04:00

There is awesome clearance today at Lands' End. Shop by tonight for best prices. 30% off summer sale & clearance up to 75%. Lots of bathing suites on sale and even some winter items. This applies to shopping online only. I do not know what the sales are like in store.

Google Doodles You'll Never See

2011-08-17T16:55:00.000-04:00

Check out Google Doodles you'll never see on The Christian Science Monitor. A few are pretty clever or cute.

My favorite:

Co-worker Strikes Again

2011-08-17T13:11:00.000-04:00

Remember the guy who told me it was a good thing I didn't change my mind about getting married.

"Liz!" he calls out as I walk past him.

"Yes?"

Oh wow. I can hardly remember what he said. I've already blocked it out. In less than an hour. Well it went something like...

"Just wondering how you have been doing. If everything is all right? Sometimes, as your walking around, you seem lost. I don't mean it in a bad way..."

"Im doing okay..." I reply as I scamper off as quickly as possible.

Seriously!!!!!!! What are you trying to accomplish dude???

It's quite possible I actually do look lost but still...Between what he says and his wondering eyes, I wish my office was big enough that I could avoid him.

Words To Live By

2011-08-16T23:07:00.000-04:00

Source: thegirlwhokeepsdreaming.tumblr.com via kate on Pinterest

I am going to try and remember that when I am at work. Because I have been lacking a lot of patience lately and it's making life difficult.

Apparently Scarves Aren't Accessories After All

2011-08-15T22:50:00.002-04:00

I wore a scarf to work today to add to one of my outfits. This random guy doing some work on our warehouse for us says, "So you trying to hide a hickey?" "No." "So your cold?" "No! IT'S CALLED AN ACCESSORY."

Okay so maybe I didn't yell but I wanted to. It was the only time this guy really attempted to talk to me and obviously he wasn't smooth at all. Nor cute. Nor young. And I am married. And happy.

Ugh!

I need to leave my job!

Laura

2011-08-15T22:13:00.000-04:00

Has anyone seen Laura? I am thinking that it is not a fairly common movie anymore but I could be completely wrong about that which is why I am wondering. My brother recommended the movie and thanks to Netflix I was able to check it out. Laura is a 1940's movie about the murder of a young socialite who is well liked by many men. As the detective begins to investigate he becomes infatuated with her.

Laura won best cinematography for black and white movies and was nominated for a host of other awards so it's not some cheaply done old movie. It is not rated and is incredibly clean. I recommend it for anybody who likes mysteries, especially old ones such as Charade.

I have had it on my Amazon wish list for a while just on the off chance I wouldn't be able to get it through Netflix but I intend to keep it there. It would be a good movie to add to my collection.

My favorite part about the movie: it's only an hour and a half :)

Birdy : Skinny Love

2011-08-14T21:02:00.000-04:00

Source: youtube.com via Lauren on Pinterest

Thanks to Melina at Tea & Toast for the recommendation.

The Perfect Hard Boiled Egg

2011-08-14T16:43:00.001-04:00

Speaking of eggs, I have something to admit. I love hard boiled eggs but have never attempted to make them. I know they aren't that hard but it still scares me to try. Irrational fear I know! But one of these days I plan to finally hard boil eggs, and I have found the perfect instructions to keep me company on that quest. Thanks Saveur and artist Carly Monardo!

The Perfect Egg Sandwich

2011-08-14T16:37:00.000-04:00

Desperate to find something not to heavy but not to light to eat before church today I came up with the following:

Elizabeth's Sunday Egg Sandwich

1. Begin to fry your eggs to your liking. I don't usually like a runny yolk on a sandwich.
2. Put bread in toaster.
3. Cut up red onion in slices and put in your egg pan to let them fry just a bit. Not sure the importance of this besides to warm them up.
4. Fry or brown some ham in the same pan as the eggs and onions. I used lunch meat as that is all we had. You can always go to the deli and get them to slice ham to the width you want if you prefer the slices to be thicker than your average lunch meat.
5. Get the finished toast and spread mayo on it.
6. Put the egg, ham, and onions on the sandwich. I do not put the slices of bread together like a traditional sandwich when I make 2 eggs. I have 2 open face sandwiches.
7. Top with basil and hot sauce if you want.
8. Eat and enjoy.

Seriously delicious!

How Do You Respond In Awkward Situations?

2011-08-12T16:02:00.000-04:00

This week has been filled with some awkward moments.

The first being when I saw my friends mom for a few minutes one evening. She brought up my sister-in-law who recently had a baby and had started trying to conceive right after getting married. She then congratulated me on withstanding the pressure in my church to have kids. Congratulating me on waiting until I wanted kids and not having them right after I got married just to fit in with the culture of my religion. All fine and dandy except for I have been trying for a while now to get pregnant. And began to wish for a baby within the first year of our marriage (which was actually a surprise to myself and my husband). I would give anything to be pregnant now. I am not to the point of being emotional about it at all. I have more emotional things going on my life and I haven't been trying long enough to feel that I have any sort of problem. But I still want to be and it is very important to me so I didn't know how to respond to her comments.

Then....

The next day I am at work and my male coworker was talking to me about my hair. I was saying how I just wanted it long. He then says, "But I thought you cut it because you hated it long." I replied "I did but now I want it long again. I change my mind about it all the time." His response was something along the lines of:"Well its a good thing you didn't change your mind about getting married." WHAT THE HECK!!! Thankfully we were interrupted at that point in the conversation.

Lets not even mention all the clumsy moments I've been having.

Garnet Hill Fall Skirt

2011-08-11T13:11:00.000-04:00

Garnet Hill recently started sending me magazines. I was not previously aware of this company. Apparently they have high quality items but you pay for that in their high prices. They sell both home items and clothing.

Anyways, I saw this skirt in the magazine last night and fell in love.

Seriously so cute. The pattern is perfect. I think it's supposed to be a burnt orange color, which I could never pull off in a shirt, but would be perfect for a skirt. My only concern is if it would flair out (there has to be a better term for it but nothing else is coming to me) like it does on the model or just kind of hang there. I like the flair.

Oh and just look at those boots. Sigh!

I have been looking for a new skirt for a long time. I don't necessarily need it for church as long as I am in nursery (easy washable jean skirt for that) and I don't need it for work. So I am not in a rush to find one. But it's been a long time since I started my search and I have had no luck. Until I saw the skirt above (Though because I'm not viewing it in person there is, of course, no guarantee I'd love it.). If not for the price, I would buy it right now without thinking. But not sure I want to spend that much on a skirt right now that I may not have the chance to wear often.

But wouldn't it be so perfect for the mini vacations the hubby and I have planned this fall?

P.S. I shop way too much. I told my husband he needs to stop me. He said he can't because he loves how happy I get. So sweet! So dangerous! Good thing I am a pretty conscious shopper and don't go too crazy.

I Am Listening To...

2011-08-11T09:11:00.000-04:00

Have a lovely day!

Living Social Coupon $60 for $30

2011-08-10T12:37:00.000-04:00

Speaking of shopping at Lands' End Canvas, Living Social is offering a coupon towards an online purchase there. They are offering $60 worth of clothing for only $30. That is half off. The best part is that the coupon can also be used towards shipping. Land's End Canvas doesn't offer as many sales and deals as Lands' End, and as I decided last night that I wanted to purchase a few items from them, I am super excited this coupon became available today. What a surprise!

The deal is for Boston, but anybody can purchase it. You can only purchase one for yourself, and it must all be used in one purchase, but it is still such a good deal.

If you are worried about purchasing clothing online and about having to pay for return shipping, don't! You can return the items to any local store that sells Lands' End. If you need to make an exchange you still return it to the store, and they ship you the new item for free.

If you don't find anything you want for yourself by October (October 5 is the last day to use it), then purchase something for your hubby or as a gift for a loved one (Christmas isn't too far away). I love both Lands' End and the Canvas line for my husband. The quality of clothing is just so good, not over the top trendy, and fits him well.

Anyways, if you are looking for some new clothing, I recommend checking out Lands' End Canvas and, of course, buying the coupon.

Movie Recommendations

2011-08-10T00:54:00.000-04:00

I love watching all types of movies and love movie recommendations (as well as book recommendations). If you watch or run into anything that you think I might like, or you just want to recommend to someone, anyone, let me know.

The two movies in the previous post were movie recommendations from Barbara of mommylife.net that I added to my Netflix queue after reading her reviews. I don't always agree with her (quite often on important matters to me), or particularly care about what she is talking about (different stage of life, different interests, etc.), but sometimes, as with a lot of blogs, I find some gems in the midst of everything else.

That is the reason I follow so many blogs about so many different topics. Because I like recommendations, reviews, and stories from all types of people with all types of interests.

So please do not be shy!!!

Inspiring Moves I Have Watched As Of Late

2011-08-10T00:41:00.001-04:00

I watched Of Gods And Men a few weeks ago with the hubby. It is about 8 French Monks who lived in North Africa in a monastery in a predominately Muslim area. An Islamic Fundamentalist group begins to massacre foreign workers and fear begins to take hold of the region. The monks fear for their lives, but come what may, they refuse the army's protection and stay put in the monastery. This film is loosely based on the life of Cisterian monks in Algeria, from 1993 until their kidnapping in 1996.

Of Gods And Men focuses not only on the event but on how the priests came to their heroic decision to stay put. Because of this plot, the movie is a bit slow moving. In fact, extremely slow at times. But it is such a powerful movie, about God and faith, that I am so glad I took the time to watch it. It leaves you wondering if you are doing what you are called of God to do or if you are just taking the easy way out.

I recommend it to anybody that can deal with slowish heavy movies. People who like to get life changing lesson from movies. And to anyone that can deal with subtitles as it is a French movie.

You can get this movie through Netflix but you can not stream it.

Katyn is another heavy movie that I watched with the husband. Katyn is about the 1940 massacre of captured polish army officers in the Katyn Forest. It is a mix of narrative and documentary style filming. It tells the story from the point of view of a few wives of the officers, as well as the officers themselves.

Katyn is a well done, powerful movie. All sorts of emotions are present in this film and no detail was left untouched. The producers did not seek to hide the truth, the pain, nor the violence and hate behind it. While it is a movie, and not an actually documentary, I feel like I have discovered a new piece of history to study and learn about.

I recommend this movie to anybody that likes history, especially WWII history. Beware though, it is very violent at parts, especially the last 5-10 mins. As I said above, they do not seek to hide or cover up anything, so while the violence isn't necessarily blood and gore, it is very blunt and visible, almost shockingly so. It does not seek for a happy ending nor should it considering the topic. I would not recommend letting your kids view this movie with you.

Is is also subtitled and because of that the movie is sometimes a bit hard to follow. But if you like these sorts of movies, I do believe it is worth watching at least once.

If you hurry up, this movie is available on Netflix streaming for the next few days.

Some Sale Items I Like

2011-08-09T23:25:00.000-04:00

Love this top:

And this sweater:

And this dress:

And these shoes:

The shirt is only in a large size. The dress is too short. And I'm not sure I like the shoes enough to pay the asking price ($60). But I love everything about the sweater, including the price ($19.99). Might get one if I can find a color that suites me.

1 & 2 : Lands' End Canvas 3 & 4 : Madwell

My Favorite Sunday Movies*

2011-08-08T22:15:00.001-04:00

The A Little Princess / The Secret Garden movie set was one of my best movie purchases yet. I love both movies, though The Secret Garden is my all time favorite. I can watch it over and over which isn't common for me. I have started reading it for the first time (thanks to the Kindle app. on my phone) and already love it. Such a classic. Maybe I will have to read A Little Princess next.

Both movies are such feel good family friendly movies that will stay on my shelf for a very long time. Movies I will pass on to my future kids and hope that they fall in love with too.

Now I just need my own secret garden.

*My hubby doesn't like watching most movies on Sunday since it is the Sabbath and I have tried to adhere to the same standard. These two make great Sabbath movies.

Our Weekend

2011-08-07T00:20:00.000-04:00

We hit up Lake Anna with friends.

Did the typical camping activities....

including taking pictures of my feet.

Went kayaking and...

jet skiing.

Even as it poured down rain. Even as everything, including our towels, were soaked. Even when it was hard to keep your eyes open in the torrential rain, or our bodies from shivering. But, thankfully, the water was warm and the company was good.

P.S. This was the first time I have ever camped just for the fun of it. Any previous camping was always for church related activities. Many of which weren't that fun or couldn't be considered real camping.

More Online Shopping Traps

2011-08-05T11:37:00.001-04:00

I love online shopping. It is an addiction of sorts. And it always makes me happy to hear when stores jump on the e-commerce bandwagon.

First there was H&M.

And now there is Zara. Zara announced that it will launch a site for U.S. customers this fall. I liked browsing Zara in Europe and am excited to have more of an opportunity to get to know this brand. Now I don't have to think about trekking miles to get to the nearest store when I fall in love with one of their pieces.

Thanks to I am Style-ish for the heads up.

Unexpected Moments of Joy

2011-07-29T00:14:00.000-04:00

Picture taken in Crescent City, CA.

I love those moments or events that are so unexpected yet end up bringing much joy and peace to our lives. Often times, those moments can seem insignificant and can be so easily missed. I live for those unexpected joys and hope that my many faults don't cause me to miss too many of them.

It is pleasing to God whenever thou rejoicest or laughest from the bottom of thy heart.
--Martin Luther

Today Was A Good Day For Random News Articles

2011-07-26T18:22:00.000-04:00

Sometimes the news is so entertaining. Below are two of my favorite stories from today.

Russia Decided Beer Counts As Alcohol - Won't be much partying in the streets over this.

Waiting In Line Pays $3 an Hour in China - Trying to decide if I could handle this job. Probably not, not even with the kindle on my phone. Though if the price was right....Could you handle standing in lines all day?

Hi Mom!

2011-07-26T17:59:00.001-04:00

I just saw this picture on my computer and had to post it. Isn't my mom so pretty? I love her. I live near her and yet I still feel like I miss her all the time.

My sister Laura took this picture so credit goes to her.

My Beef With Harry Potter Fans

2011-07-21T21:01:00.000-04:00

At first I thought them crazy. Pyscho. Nothing is good enough for that type of devotion. Then I started to watch the movies, eventually seeing movie 4 or 5 in the theater, and began to sort of understand their devotion. By the end of this last movie, I almost completely understood their devotion. I was head over heels in love too.

But one thing I don't understand is their inability to comprehend that not everybody has read the books yet. I almost had to avoid getting onto social media after the movie came out for fear of having the movie ruined for me. It wouldn't have been that hard to avoid with any other movie. "Spoiler" is used for a reason. But in the Harry Potter world, there is no way to spoil the movie because they think everybody has read all the books, multiple times.

But now my complaint is wasted because there will be no more Harry Potter movies, and because of that, I am sad. I will miss Harry Potter. Maybe I will have to read the books now.

P.S. I am glad I haven't read the books yet because I like when a movie shocks and surprises me and this last Harry Potter movie did just that. I am the type that prefers reading the book after seeing the movie. Though the book usually is better. That I will admit.

Still don't understand the Twilight craze though. And not sure I am willing to give that one a try.

My Summer Favorites So Far

2011-07-21T20:45:00.000-04:00

Books:

Am in the middle of but am already obsessed with it. To bad I left it at work today. I was so excited to read more of it.

Couldn't recommend this book enough. I adored it. I highly recommend it. Does have a bit of language in it, but not enough to bother me. The quality of the book more than made up for it.

Movies:

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part 2! Need I say more.

X-Men First Class - Amazing movie. I have always love this series but feel they excelled with this movie.

I have seen this movie many many times. Watched it again fourth of July weekend. Such a good time to watch it despite that it doesn't have to do with American History. This will always be a favorite of mine.

Favorite Moments with Hubby:

- Introducing him to the amazingness that is Santa Barbara.

- Tubing with friend.

- Short Bike Ride and lemonade stand stop.

Kim Chee Cucumbers

2011-07-19T11:17:00.000-04:00

I love Korean food and I especially love Kim Chee*. I don't eat it often though because it stinks to high heaven and Jon might never kiss me if I smelled like Kimchi* all the time. But its so good! I wish he would just fall in love with it so we could sit around all day eating smelly cabbage. Anyways, real Kimchee* is not easy to make but cucumber Kimchi is simple so I decided to give it a whirl while in Utah. Usually my aunt whips it up but I decided it was time I learn so I could haunt my husband with it all the days of our lives. The instructions were easy to follow and I think I should have followed them rather than listen to the well meaning people trying to help me. Between the 3 of us, the proportions got all skewed.

Hint for future Kimchi makers: if your cucumbers ever look like that after you mix the salt in, you probably used way to much salt. In fact, it's pretty simple! Don't use the full amount of salt if you use half the amount of cucumbers. No amount of water will wash enough of that salt away. Beat your head against a wall if you ever mess this up.

Despite the overly salty taste, they were still very delicious. I think it's about time I try to hunt down a Kimchee mix at one of the local international stores. I need to try my hand at it again.

P.S. Thanks Dad for introducing me to the world of Kimchi so many years ago. I may be the only one in the family that followed you down this path, but I am your favorite daughter for a reason :).

*I googled Kim Chee to see if the spelling on the packet was correct. And of course it was. The reason I was so confused was that there are a million ways to spell Kim Chee. So I decided to use a few of the version. You can thank me later for this spelling lesson.

Must Try: Bruges Waffles & Frites

2011-07-18T21:25:00.000-04:00

If you love fries and are as obsessed with them as I am, you have to try Bruges Waffles & Frites. Our friends though so highly of this place that we randomly decided to stop there one evening on our vacation. Glad we did. Best fries and fry sauces ever. Fry sauce is a Utah thing so you wont see many restaurants outside of Utah trying to master it, but I wish they would. Bruges Waffles and Fritas has roughly 10-12 fry sauces you can choose from. We tried the Samurai and the Andalouse sauces. They were both very good but I wish we had chosen the Samurai and a curry one, because the Andalouse tasted too much like the Samurai. Their waffles were pretty good but I think my heart was in the fries, not the waffles. They are also very well known for the Machine Gun Sandwich, which includes a lamb sausage and fries on a baguette. It looked good and we regretted not trying it. Maybe next time! If you are ever in Salt Lake and need a meal or even just a snack, you should stop at Bruges Waffles and Fritas. You probably wont regret it.

Non-Profit Organization : Operation Shower

2011-07-14T11:40:00.000-04:00

I thought I would highlight a group whose activities I have been following for a while. Operation Shower is a nonprofit group whose mission is to throw baby showers for military wives whose husbands are deployed and who more than likely have no family in the area. Woman who may not have a baby shower if not for Operation Shower. Click here for more on their mission.

No one enters civil service jobs to make loads of money, especially those who decide to sacrifice much and serve our country. If these woman aren't in need of money, they are definitely in need of all the support, friendship, and love they can get. I don't know how I would make it if my husband was gone for months on end, especially being pregnant. I love the idea of Operation Shower and think they do an excellent job.

As you can see from the pictures above they don't mess around and throw the best possible baby showers they can. And they are able to succeed through the generous donations of individuals and companies (small and large). And these donations aren't just monetary, but also include time, talent, and goods. They have several areas in which they accept volunteers and have made it effortless for you to donate. Plus, for all you woman who, like me, love to shop for baby items, they have set up their own Amazon Wish List. Just click and buy and the items will be sent directly to them. How easy is that?

I hope you will at least check them out.

And if you have any nonprofit organizations you would like to tell me about, please share.

How good is Free-Range Meat?

2011-07-13T13:26:00.000-04:00

I don't cook much these days, but will start again once we move out of my hubby's parents home. Thus, I haven't kept up on food related issues as much as I should. But I plan to catch up and have some books on my Amazon wish list to help in that pursuit.

And because of my lack of resources and knowledge, I almost feel like I shouldn't blog about the issue of free-range meat quite yet but I've decided to anyways as I found this article to be interesting.

All I tend to hear is how great free-range meat is to buy if one can afford it. And I know people that do purchase it. Some people purchase free-range meat because of it's supposed health benefits compared to animals raised in confinement. Some purchase it for ethical reasons and others because they feel it is better quality meat and has a better taste. Whatever the reason for people purchasing it, I respect their decision. As I also respect those that decline to eat meat altogether. I for one, eat meat and don't go out of my way to buy free-range meat.

I have heard all the pro free-range arguments there are, but I haven't quite felt like I believe them a hundred percent. Again, I haven't studied it enough and feel that I should study both sides of the issue before I begin to make a decision. And as everything that is backed up by statistics, how do I know whose statistics are more accurate?

With that said, I do find the article interesting. I have found many social issues, especially related to health, can become very one sided (Lyme disease for example) and to enveloped in self-interest and social norms (or fads depending on how you look at it). So I am glad to hear somebody has come out with different findings and questions regarding the actual health benefit of free-range meat. Data that goes unquestioned isn't necessarily good data so even if his facts aren't correct (I don't know if they are or aren't), it's good that the Dr. reported his findings. And his argument sounds kind of believable to me in a common sense sort of way.

What do you think about free-range meat? What do you think about James McWilliams' article and Dr. Peter Davies' findings?

Best Civil War Facial Hair?

2011-06-10T12:28:00.000-04:00

I must have an obsession with facial hair because I am about to showcase it again on my blog.

The Smithsonian is allowing the public to vote on who had the best facial hair during the civil war. These men might not have had quite the competition as the men in the World Wildest Bears and Mustache contest, but I can't imagine they had a lot of time on their hands to groom their hair and style their mustaches into the next big thing.

My vote for the Smithsonian contest goes to J.E.B. Stuart. His facial hair is full, groomed, and good looking. And if I am not mistaken, he is in second place. I have pretty good taste I must say. Who does your vote go to?

Do you Pin?

2011-06-07T11:01:00.000-04:00

Have you heard of Pinterest. Most of you have but if not, check it out. SERIOUSLY, check it out.

If you are on it let me know! If you are not on it, and you want to be on it, also let me know. If you want to check out what I have been up to on pinterest, click here.

Oh Happy Day Takes Someone To Paris

2011-06-06T21:40:00.000-04:00

I don't often blog about giveaways. Only if I really want to win. And Oh Happy Day has offered one giveaway I can't help but entering. She is giving away 2 tickets to PARIS!! How can you not want to win? CLICK HERE if you want to check out this most generous giveaway and enter yourself.

Under Our Skin - Uncovering the Controversy of Lyme Disease

2011-05-27T10:15:00.001-04:00

I want to do a post about Lyme Disease as I feel very strongly about it, but I have been super duper busy lately and have had no time for blogging.

For now I would like to recommend the movie, Under Our Skin. It is a documentary style movie about Lyme Disease. While it tends to focus on extreme cases, Lyme disease it not something you want to mess with, and this movie provides loads of information about the disease.

The movie is a bit dramatic and very scary but it is a good wake up call. So many people deal with this disease and neither the government nor the general public seems to care or get it. Lyme disease is ignored way too often. Finally VA politicians are trying to change that and I fully support them.

While I would like to say much more, I will have to wait. For now I just wanted to bring up this movie. I wanted to purchase multiple copies and share it with people, but as you can see on the left, it is rather expensive. I just found out though that you can stream it on Netflix for free. I highly recommend that you take the time to watch this movie. It is important to be informed, especially if you have young kids that play outside or if you family often goes camping.

By the way, if you don't have a Netflix account yet you could probably get a free trial of it for a month. If Netflix isn't an option for you, you can spend a few dollars and watch it on Amazon Instant Video or find a screening of the movie in your area.

Wildest Beards & Mustaches

2011-05-19T17:33:00.002-04:00

Check it out!

Love it!

Gotta Share

2011-05-12T08:07:00.000-04:00

I love Color Me Katie. She always posts colorful and fun pictures that are inspirational and imaginative. She is also a member of Improve Everywhere, an improve group who always has hilarious ideas and shares their activites on youtube. This is one of their newest videos:

The song is so true to our lives. Kind of makes you feel pathetic, doesn't it? And if it goes viral, it will for exactly the reasons they stated. Perhaps we have all become a bit too predictable and sucked up in things that are time wasters. But honestly, I love the web and would never give it up. It is a huge abyss of greatness. There is and will always be something new to discover and something new to share. Such as this video.

Enjoy!

My Favorites Today

2011-04-25T20:50:00.000-04:00

An awesome recipe:
Macaroni Salad for those of you who likes cold pastas (which apparently doesn't include the boys in my husbands family. Woops! At least all the parents loved it.). It's so easy to make. And as a tip, you don't need the half cup white sugar.

Two great TV shows:
Downton Abbey: A very well done tv show about the Crawley family and their staff. A few scenes are very emotional, upsetting, and/or a bit disturbing, but the rest of the show makes up for it. I highly recommend it to those who like period pieces. You can view it on Netflix.
Harpers Island: A great show for those who like scary mysteries. If you like movies such as I Know What You Did Last Summer, where people get killed off, you will love this show. It was a one season show due to the topic so it's not one in which you have to wait for the next season to come out, as is the case with Downton Abbey.

New favorite clothing brand:
I haven't worn the clothes I bought from them yet, but Lands' End Canvas has already impressed me. They sent me a handwritten thank you note for purchasing from their brand. Again, it was handwritten, not a generic note that was printed on a card. Thats impressive. That is a good marketing strategy.

FRIDAY...FRIDAY...

2011-04-24T00:16:00.001-04:00

So much better than the actual music video.

Favorite App Right Now

2011-04-19T22:17:00.001-04:00

If you have an Android phone (probably has an Iphone version too), download Photoshop Express. It is a free app that allows you to do basic edits on any pictures you have on your phone.

I have been taking a lot of pictures with my phone lately but the colors haven't been turning out as vibrant as I would like. The app fixed that problem. With the app, I was able to enhance and edit the photos I took without having to use the Photoshop program on my computer.

It's so easy to get and so easy to use. What's not to like about that?

Examples:

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

No More Rack

2011-03-22T12:35:00.000-04:00

I love going to this website every day at noon and checking what the daily deals are. The best items usually sell out super duper fast which makes it a bit of a race for the best items. But even if you are late, there are still decent products available. I figure if I look at it every day for the next 9 months I might find some good deals on Christmas gifts. Always good to start early, right?

Items they sell range from accessories, to clothes, to games, to makeup products, and more. They have items for kids, woman, and men. There is something for everyone. I have been watching this sight for a while trying to find an awesome purse that I could buy as I need a new one. No luck yet but I still have hope.

A few things that make the website different than others I have joined is that they don't have as much of a selection every day and they are not always designer/boutique items. But that allows for really great prices on the items they do select to sell.

I encourage you to start checking out this website. One day you just might run into a great deal on something you have been wanting.

I am...

2011-03-17T23:03:00.000-04:00

Liking this: the game shows. So true and so funny.

Reading this: For Woman Only: What You Need To Know about the Inner Lives of Men

Missing this already

Counting down the days for this lovely show to start.

Reminding myself to:

Source: flickr.com via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Chalkboards

2011-03-17T12:48:00.000-04:00

If the sweater becomes free, I didn't do it.

(pic via my phone)

Chalkboards have made it onto the list of chick decor items of the year. Or at least I think they have based on all the pictures I have seen of chalkboards and chalkboard paint being used. I think they are great when used the right way. Not sure yet how I feel about having a wall turned into a chalkboard in my bedroom or kitchen but it could be way fun in a play room or kids bedroom. There are definitely many useful and cute ways to use chalkboards in decor all throughout the home and in party decor.

Via: 1. Full House 2. a beach cottage 3. attic mag

4. the city sage 5. ElegALA 6. gfout etsy shop

Spaces I Love

2011-03-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

When I have my perfect house, which the hubby so pessimistically says is never, I want this nook for my guest room:

Source: whi.assets.prod.lg1x3z.simplecdn.net via Elizabeth on Pinterest

Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior

2011-03-14T14:37:00.001-04:00

I am a huge fan of Criminal Minds and though I was not super excited about a spin-off of it, I thought I would give the new show a try. Try it I did and the show gets a solid C from me. As to be expected, the original Criminal Minds blows it out of the water.

The story aspect is good. While many people think that there is nothing new in crime television, I disagree, and the handful of episodes released so far have had original enough material. Some a bit too gruesome for me but that's to be expected.

My real problem with the show is the casting. The casting is HORRRIBBLLEEE!!!! One of the things that makes the original Criminal Minds so great is that the cast works well together. They are all good enough actors, their character's quirks shine through, and you begin to care for them on some level.

But the characters in this new show are not like that at all. There are a few characters I could see myself liking, but together as a whole, they do nothing for the show. They are so boring and unoriginal.

My 3 main problems with the casting:

I just can't get over the fact that Forest Whitaker is the head honcho. I would rather have someone less famous. Maybe he will grow on me but I still wish they had chosen someone else.

I will admit upfront that I'm not a fan of Janeane Garofalo. I don't agree with much that comes out of her mouth these days. But I did like her character in 24 well enough so I know I am not completely biased against her acting. With that said, I think she is wrong for this show. It may just be her character that is lame but something about her doesn't fit this show at all. I just want to gag every time she says something.

I love Kirsten Vangsness but they shouldn't have recycled her. She fits into the original Criminal Minds so well and I wish they would have left it at that. She doesn't work as well with the cast of Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior and it makes me sad.

I will be very upset if they try and make any more Criminal Minds spin-offs. At the very least CBS, I ask that you not recycle the show as much as you did with CSI. When Criminal Minds gets old, just retire the show and move on.

Something Just Isn't Right

2011-03-14T10:04:00.000-04:00

My brother and his family are moving into my parents house and in an effort to clean up my old bedroom so the baby can take it over, my mom made me take back some junk I had been storing there.

And when I mean junk, I mean JUNK! The storage container above was filled with pens, pencils, markers, and other miscellanies supplies. Some of which probably date back to the ice age. Dozens didn't work and had to be thrown away. It even included a rubber banded handful of broken colored pencils. Can you say HOARDER!

But something I found in there was a bit of a surprise. And I have no clue why or even how it ended up in the box of art/school supplies. Can you figure out what it is? Don't try too hard. It's really easy to figure out. Promise!

With Your Arms Wide Open

2011-03-12T22:30:00.000-05:00

I am obsessed with this tree. I have been wanting to take a picture of it for so long. As I was driving by today I impulsively stopped and took one with my phone through my windshield. It's not a great picture, and on another nice day I want to go out with my camera and take better ones, but I still like it. I love how the tree is huge and all alone in a random field. It is alone yet so strong.

Here are a few more:

Awkward Pictures to Illustrate the Drastic Change I Made Yesterday

2011-03-11T18:04:00.000-05:00

Before

After

Suspicions of Pregnancy Surround Me

2011-03-08T15:44:00.001-05:00

When I go grocery shopping, I plan my meals, make a list, and follow it pretty well. I might buy a few more things that strike my fancy and are on sale. But again, I am a pretty planned shopper.

Then Saturday I make an unplanned trip to Sams Club to get some almonds. I walk out with the following:

Almonds
Beef Jerky
Box of Cinnamon Cheerios
Large box of Mentos

Then I go to Harris Teeters to get Basil and a jar of pickles. I walk out with :

Travel size containers of pickles
A large jar of big pickles
Basil
Salsa
Queso Sause
Apple sauce for the hubby (I don't like apple sauce)

Totally out of the norm for me.

And then I get home and someone asks, "are you planning to make dinner tomorrow?" "Um no hadn't really thought of it actually."

I ate 3 of those rather large pickles I bought in one sitting. Add that to the few pounds I have gained back lately and my general lack of energy and I am pretty sure there are some people who think I am pregnant.
Especially my father in law, who made sure that the smell of his salsa popcorn wouldn't bother me too much (which by the way, it does smell). This was right after I ate those three pickles.

But I promise you I am not pregnant. Not yet anyways.

My Favorite Sandwich

2011-03-07T18:03:00.000-05:00

Panera Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich

If all vegetarian food tasted like this sandwich, I would be a vegetarian. Or....if I could eat this sandwich everyday, I would be a vegetarian, and a happy one at that.

Religious Tolerance

2011-03-06T19:13:00.001-05:00

I ran into this article after someone posted it on Facebook. This article discusses how a Mormon Church in Missouri opens its doors to Muslims on Fridays for their Friday worship. Friday prayers are really important to Muslims. Friday to them is what Sunday is to Mormons and other Christians. Muslim leaders came forward in an Interfaith Council and asked for a place to worship on Sundays as they did not have a local mosque to use yet. A member of the Council was Mormon and was the connection they needed.
Then I found out today that The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the same religion discussed in the article for those of you who are not familiar with my church) is sending aid to Libya. They are working with other countries and with a large Muslim organization to get the aid into Libya, as the United States is not allowed in.

These stories came at an interesting time. I have been thinking a lot about the Muslim faith lately and one night I had a rather intense discussion with my husband about some of my feelings. I was saying that I felt Muslims needed to be more open and upfront about what they believe and about their feelings on events in the Middle East. If they don't condone violence, then say so. This course of action is taken often by Muslims groups in the United States. The Muslims in my area are well known for making public statements condoning violence and for reaching out to the community. But, I felt that more Muslims needed to come out against all the violence and hate. That they needed to do more to allow us to know how they feel.

But then my husband (who is much more kind than I am) was pointing out that people who judge Muslims based on what extremists do are somewhat shortsighted and judgmental. And this is true too. I would not want someone to judge my church if one person twisted the beliefs of my faith and went and committed violence against others.

It is hard though. What is unique about the Muslims faith is that many countries are governed on Shariah law or other laws based on the Muslim faith. Their faith becomes their way of life too. So when bad things happen, such as the killing of a young girl, it is hard to separate the two. Is the Muslim faith a violent faith or a peaceful one? This question often bothers me. And so many times after reading blogs and the news, I don't feel the greatest of feelings towards Muslims. I am left with misgivings and a sad heart for everything that is going on in the world.

But after talking to my husband I realized that it is not necessarly fair for me to place such a burden on Muslims. That I shouldn't feel that they must be okay with violence if they don't cry out against it more loudly. While I still believe that it would help for them to step forward and start being more vocal about their feelings, I can not lay that whole burden on them.

And after much though I have made the following conclusion:

I think it is important for members of different faiths to open up to each other, to get to know each other, to be tolerant of each others faith. I like the idea of Interfaith Councils and Interfaith Events. These councils allow people to more intimately get to know other religions. They give them a chance to discuss what is going on in their congregations, to discuss their views of events in the world, to ask for help and to give help.

Neighborhoods are no longer well knit communities. Oftentimes, your only friends are those you interact with at work or school or church. This doesn't necessarily allow for diversity of religions in your group of friends and acquaintances. And this may not be a good thing.

This interaction could only be more eye opening. At this stage of my life, I know no Muslims. I know someone who is Jewish, but not active. In fact, I don't know many really religious people except for Mormons. This mean that much of what I know about other religions comes from what I read about on the news and on blogs. This can leave me with a very narrow mind on religons.

Perhaps there is a hole in our society that could be filled with more Interfaith Councils and Events. Or perhaps we just need to make a greater effort in getting to know our neighbors. Personal interaction and experience is often times more effective than reading a dozen articles all stating the same thing.

I for one hope that I can be less narrow minded. I will probably still have some misgivings about certain fascists of other faiths. But I need to remember that what is going on in the Middle East is more of a political issue than a religious issue (though the two can not be totally seperated). It concerns peoples feelings, way of life, and social/political structure. And all I can do for them is pray that things will work out. That the governments involved will make the right decisions and that slowly, yet surely, they can take the steps necessary to bring peace to their land and their lives.

P.S. I can't finish without saying that I do have a few misgivings about the situation in the article. Mainly, that they cover up the picture of Jesus. To me, that feels like someone coming into my home and covering up my picture of Jesus because they don't believe in him. But in the end, I think God is happy that his building is being used for service and I think he understands. So I need to be understanding of it too.

P.P.S. I know some may disagree with me. Some may view me as too lenient on the Muslim religion, while others may view me as too hard on them. But I am okay with that and I am okay with where I stand on this issue right now. But I also understand where each side comes from. So please to not feel scared to tell me your feelings, whatever they may be.

Style Me Pretty

2011-03-04T09:12:00.000-05:00

After taking a long break from wedding related blogs, I am now re-addicted to Style Me Pretty.

Two weddings that captured my fancy yesterday:

Rustic Va Wedding : Very pretty wedding and a great use of nature related objects. But this wedding mainly striked my fancy because she hosted her wedding at my dream venue number 2. I fell for Rasberry Plains when my dad had a campaign event there. It has the biggest windows all around the main room that look out onto gorgeous and well kept lawns. It would be great for any romantic event.

New York City Wedding : I have viewed a lot of weddings in the past week. Most of them are really pretty but end up being a lot of the same. Different wedding, different traditions, same decore. But this one stood out to me. I thought it was classy yet not too stiff. Had a touch of the modern industrial feel without feeling too modern. It fits in with what is fashionable in the wedding world, but is also very much their own wedding. Their flowers are gorgeous, they are gorgeous. And don't even get me started with the hot sauce station. In fact, that might be why I love this wedding.

My Favorite Picture of the Day

2011-03-03T21:54:00.000-05:00

I love this picture!

My amazing and very talented sister Laura took it. Last summer, we were at the zoo with other family members and got left behind for a bit because we wouldn't leave these darling animals.

I want one for Christmas.

Recently Downloaded Music

2011-03-03T08:05:00.000-05:00

I wanted some new music for my phone so I downloaded some very random things, including songs from the following artists/bands:

The Civil Wars - Recently recommended and I thought I would give them a try.

Sara Bareillas

Lady Antebellum

Jonathan Vasser and the Speckled Birds - Saw them at a house show a few years ago. Liked them, always think about them, but just now finally got their music. So excited. I love them because they are original and very talented. And they make use of some pretty awesome instruments. Enjoy the videos below but know that they are a thousand times better live.

I like Indie/Independent type bands so if anybody has suggestions, please give them to me. I love new music but I have been a little too out of the music loop lately.

Phone Dump

2011-03-02T20:34:00.000-05:00

Working inside all day made it easy to miss the sun during the winter time. It was always pitch black when I left work. I get really happy now when I see the sun on weekdays. Hence the pictures.

I am sooo excited for the spring.

Lands' End Canvas Bathing Suits

2011-02-28T16:48:00.006-05:00

Land's End Canvas isn't cheap but they make good quality clothing. I was browsing the other day and found a few bathing suits that I like (I can't believe it's that time already). I don't usually buy one pieces as they never fit my body right but I kind of want to try one of these:

I can't remember which color I saw this in, but it was so cute and feminine.

Saturday Loves

2011-02-26T15:13:00.001-05:00

I had a super busy week at work and it really wore me out. So today I am wasting my day doing what I love to do : shop and browsing the web.

I ran into a wedding on 100 Layer Cake that I fell in love with. This is the type of wedding I would love to be invited too. You can view their wedding video here. It looks like a blast. More of a party than a wedding, which I fully support.

I am listening to the ban The Honey Tree, which I randomly just discovered today. I might have to look into getting some of their music. It is really relaxing.

Now time to go shopping with the besty. Clothes and girl time, what more could you want?

Miracles in Time of Distress

2011-02-24T19:54:00.000-05:00

There is so much going on right now in the US and world wide. A lot of it includes violence, death, and destruction. But during this time, there are still so many miracles to be found.

This week an earthquake hit New Zealand. So much has been going on that many people still aren't aware it happened. I was extremely concerned when I found out. My sister-in-law is from New Zealand and all her family still lives there. Thankfully, they don't live in that area, and the few family members that were in that area visiting are safe.

Little did I know at the time, that a family friend was also traveling over there. And her hotel was in the area that was hit. Miraculously her itinerary had taken her elsewhere when the earth quake hit. Could she have been safe if it hadn't? Perhaps, but probably not. Her hotel was completely demolished in the earthquake. She is an amazing woman and I am so thankful the Lord saw fit to spare her.

My heart goes out to everyone, in New Zealand and around the world, who is suffering right now. I hope things begin to get better soon.

Wisconsin's Run Away Government

2011-02-22T12:01:00.000-05:00

If you follow the news at all, you will know that Wisconsin has been making headlines for quite a few days now. Here is a descent commentary on it. It is not a perfect article, perhaps a bit biased, but I felt like it explained the situation pretty well.

I don't often talk about politics on this blog, but I might start doing it every one in a while when I see fit. Feel free to openly disagree with any of my views.

My Weekend Included:

2011-02-20T19:56:00.005-05:00

This makes me laugh but I am going to admit, right here, right now, that I watched all the dates with the Bachelor. And I enjoyed almost every moment of it.

I sent my first postcard for postcrossing :) .

My sister wanted to practice her photography a bit. She is really good. Just take a look. I was her "model." I am a horrible model, the lighting wasn't great and it was soo horribly windy, but it was fun. Here are a few unedited pictures.

Now think of something that makes you sad. Think of the hubby playing video games :

The sun is a bit too bright in the picture but I still like it :

Some of my Favorite New York Fashion Week Pictures

2011-02-20T19:25:00.000-05:00

I don't often post anything fashion related on my blog, especially not high fashion, but I enjoy the blog The Photodiarist and I love the picture she posted today. Check it out. The lady is so classy. I think I love her outfit because it is as if she is mixing the old with the modern into a timeless and ageless outfit (though not much in fashion lasts forever). And her hat is just adorable.

I also like this lady. I can't pin point why because her dress is a bit unusual. But that might be one of the reasons I think she looks amazing. Add that to the fact that she looks like she's about to kick trash and you've got one sexy lady. And her lipstick is just amazing!!!

A Jumble of Junk

2011-02-18T13:41:00.003-05:00

I like this article and would like to study more about this.

This article just drives me up the wall. It is your property. Your shed. Your right to put the wire mesh up.

Who needs class reunions when you have facebook. Thanks facebook for informing me that one of my high school classmates is wanted by the police.

If you are an Angry Birds addict, you will love this. You can even get Angry Bird hats on Etsy.

Appreciating the Hubby

2011-02-17T19:24:00.000-05:00

I am far from perfect when it comes to showing my husband how much I care about him and love him. That is why it's one of my goals this year to get better at that.

So on that note, I really like this post by We Are That Family. I already plan on getting that book.

Photoshop Wanna Be

2011-02-16T21:27:00.001-05:00

I don't have tons of time to blog tonight as I have other things I want to do, but I did find a few mins. to take one picture and edit it in photo shop a thousand different ways just for the heck of it.

I can't believe how cool my life is.

I was being sarcastic by the way. But for reals I need to learn more about Photoshop. I would love to start creating things with the program.

My Valentines Day

2011-02-15T22:14:00.002-05:00

For Valentines Day, the hubby and I had to work around a few other things we had to get done. So we decided to celebrated a bit early (or at least I thought we had decided that). On Saturday we spent most of the day together. I was thinking about making breakfast in bed for the hubby but ended up staying up way too late (in my defense I was working on his gift). He went to bed almost 3 hours earlier than me so I knew I wouldn't be up before him. We both woke up about the same time. He then got up and told me to stay in bed because he was going to bring me breakfast in bed. I said no way because I was making breakfast. I won because I had already planned on exactly what I as making and had picked up specific ingredients for it at the store.

After breakfast we watched tv and then watched one of my favorite chick flicks, The Proposal. That is one of the few chick flicks the hubby doesn't mind watching with me (Leap Year being another). After laughing my head off at it, and watching a bit more television, we headed to one of the malls to do a bit of window shopping. We then went to CPK where we ate a Mediterranean appetizer, drank some fruit drinks, and downed the following:

Absolutely delish. And thanks to a gift card, all we paid was the tip. We then headed up and watched some more tv and some of the movie Fireproof, while eating a huge and delicious sugar cookie that the hubby's sister made us. This sister then got home from her night out, and we watched an episode of the IT Crowd and The Community. Both episodes were about Dungeons and Dragons and both were funny. My knowledge of the nerd world just keeps growing. Before these episodes, I really had no clue what Dungeons and Dragons was. This whole time I thought it was just your typical video game.

As I stated above, I thought Saturday night was our Valentines celebration. But then on Sunday night I asked the hubby if he wanted to have enchiladas the next night and he said no. Which came as a bit of a shock as this kid never says no to Enchiladas. So I asked him why and he stated, in such a way that I could tell he had been trying to keep it a secret, that he was going to cook me dinner (a big deal. He isn't a cooker).

I wasn't sure what was going on but I made sure to get off work on time. When I got home, I noticed him getting ready to cook in the kitchen. I headed down to our room and became confused when I heard romantic music on in our section of the basement. What I found was our kitchen table set up for a candle light dinner. A very nice surprise. He ended up cooking Brazilian hot dogs, a somewhat unromantic meal, but he had been wanting to cook me them for a long time. We ate, we danced, and he told me what my gift was.

The hubby's instructions for Valentines Day were to not get me flowers this year and that all I wanted was a susprise. I like being surprised. A few days after I told him this, a Groupon was released for a discounted stay at a B&B near Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's house). I have never been there and we keep mentioning how we should go. While you can make a day trip out of it, I thought it would be nice to take a few days and have a mini trip with just the two of us. I left the decisions on whether to buy the Groupon or not up to him and said if he did, he couldn't spend any money on me for Valentines Day (meaning he would have to get really creative with his surprise). He bought it but didn't tell me he did. So that, along with the candle light dinner, became my surprise. I was pretty excited. And thankfully I got a bonus this month to cover the cost of the Groupon. The Groupon also covers the cost of Monticello and wine tastings. We wont be doing the wine tastings of course but it will give us the chance to check out some farms and vineyards and take pictures. I am super stoked.

I admit though that I kind of ruined his chances of surprising me. I secretly hoped the trip would be my surprise and when I opened my card and nothing about the trip was in it, I was a bit dissappointed. He told me a few mins. later that he had bought the Groupon. So while it was a surprise, it didn't work out quite the way it was supposed to. Maybe next year we can try the surprise thing again. Stupid Groupon for putting out such a great Groupon.

Below is a picture of one of the cards I made the hubby. My gift to him was a bit cheaper, but very personal. I made him a bunch of cards with different things written on them and some are redeamable for things such as a dessert of his choice.

Ignore the paystub in back, my bonus was another surprise. Haha!

It was a very nice Valentines Day. A bit odd in nature, but very nice. I love my hubby!

Pot Roast Recipe

2011-02-14T17:30:00.000-05:00

I am not the biggest fan of post roast but I do like having it every once in a while. The following recipe inspired me to try and cook my first roast. It turned out perfect and made even better leftovers. I have been avoiding blogging about this recipe because of a horrible experience I had a month ago, but because that experience had nothing to do with the taste of the roast, I have decided I should finally share.

Click Here for the original recipe.

Here are the adaptions I made:

I used:

about a 2 lb roast.

2 packages dried soup mix - I think you can get by with 1 but I just used 2 anyways. Extra flavor. But I think you would want to only go with one if you don't like a strong onion flavor.

Use chicken stock rather than water.

2 cans cream of mushroom soup -if I remember correctly, I still used both cans despite my small roast. It made for lots of gravy. Yum!
I cooked the meat for 2 hours on high and 4.20 hours on low in the slow cooker. You could just add additional time and cook it on slow the whole time.

Tips:

Before putting the beef in the slow cooker with all of the above ingredients, coat the meat with a mixture of 1/4 cup flour, 1 tbsp garlic salt, and 1 tbsp black pepper. Then sear all sides of the meat in a skillet with some olive oil. This helps lock the flavor in.

Don't cut the roast right away. Let it sit a bit to keep the juices in.

Consider cooking it the night before you serve it. This lets the flavors really saturate the meat.

You can also add garlic, rosemary, thyme, and Nature's Seasoning, red potatoes, carrots, and/or onions.

I would hold off on the vegetables until the last hour and a half or so, to prevent them from getting too soft and soggy.

Maybe I will tell you about my awful experience later on in the week. For now, I hope you enjoy!!!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T17:29:00.002-05:00

I hope everybody has a lovely Valentines Day.

Atlas Shrugged Movie

2011-02-13T19:29:00.000-05:00

Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged has been on my list of books to read for a while now. The only reason I haven't read it yet is due to its length. It is a lengthy book.

Today I found out that they will be releasing a movie version of it this year. While I expect the book will be better, this movie will hold me over until I have a chance to read it.

The preview isn't amazing. The book is about government, business, and innovation. They are heavy subjects and perhaps a bit boring for the normal person. And the preview doesn't really hide that. But despite that, or maybe becasue of that, I am excited for its release and I feel like it has the potential to be a great movie. I just hope it gets picked up for distribution and that they get the financing to make the second and third film. Because no, you can't fit this book into one film. It would be like trying to fit the last Harry Potter book into one film.

No matter what happens though, I am ready to cut people slack on this one, because I can't imagine that it is an easy book to try and turn into a film. If it turns out to be a mediocre film, I will just be happy that they tried.

Window Shopping: Pillow Covers

2011-02-11T08:19:00.000-05:00

I adore decorative pillows. I always ohhh and ahh at them. But I am a bit shy about buying any because they always end up on the floor. Maybe I will invest in some when I have a house with more room and more furniture.

VIA : Etsy

VIA: Etsy

Perfect for a kids room.
VIA: Etsy

VIA: Etsy

Birthday Candles for those Mature in Age

2011-02-10T17:09:00.000-05:00

I want to buy these for someones birthday. Maybe my dad's this year? If they are back in stock by then.

VIA: The Spoon Sisters

Rainyday Gear

2011-02-09T19:22:00.002-05:00

I want!

Book #5 of 25

2011-02-09T16:34:00.001-05:00

I finished Super Freakonomics last night making it book 5 of the 25 I want to read this year. If you know anything about Freakonomics, this is another book written by the same authors in a similar format as the first.

If you just have no idea about what I am talking about, and have never head of either one of these books, let me explain. Both books are about the economics behind life.They try and explain all types of events and patterns using economic principles. And while it might help if you knew something about economics, its not necessary as they do not write this in a scholarly, filled with economic principles and definitions, manner. This is an easy read for anybody, no matter what educational level or how much they know about economics.

The chaper titles in Freakonomics gives you a good idea of the kinds of things they discuss:

Chapter 1: Discovering cheating as applied to teachers and sumo wrestlers
Chapter 2: Information control as applied to the ku klux klan and real-estate agents
Chapter 3: The economics of drug dealing, including the surprisingly low earnings and abject working conditions of crack cockaine dealers.
Chapter 4: The role legalized abortion has played in reducing crime.
Chapter 5: The negligible effects of good parenting on education
Chapter 6: The socioeconomic patterns of naming children

Super Freakonomics includes such topics as prostitution, suicide bombers, hospital cleanliness, global warming, and child safety.

Though these books may sound weird, I find them extremely entertaining, educational, and funny. They talk about all types of topics, from those I love (like terrorism) to those I would normally care less about (such as patterns of naming children). And they have a way of making boring topics interesting.

I personally think Freakonomics is a bit better. I found a chapter or two in Super Freakonomics to be a tiny bit boring and lengthy. But overall the book was almost as interesting as the first, and I am finding myself telling bits of it to anybody who will listen (My poor Dad. Had to tell me to stop telling him about Prostitutes. I just couldn't help it.).

As with any book on such topics, I would be cautious about believing everything they say. These topics and the conclusions they have come up with aren't necessarily believed by everybody and are sometimes debatable. Also, some people would say these books were written more for entertainment purposes than for their educational value.

But either way, I recommend picking up either one of the books and given them a whirl.

P.S. The authors have a blog if your are interested.

I Have 3 Eyes Now

2011-02-07T22:23:00.000-05:00

If my work is what is making my skin break out, does that mean I can quite?

No?...Okay, I guess I had better start wearing more makeup.

Thank you bareMinerals for making it an easy 3 min. process to cover up that 3rd eye and all the other zits and pimples that have taken over my face.

Otherwise, I might look like I am still in Middle School going through puberty.

P.S. : Have you ever dated a guy who had such questionable skin, you could have sworn kissing him made your skin break out? It didn't last, did it?

Healthy Eating Planning

2011-02-07T22:16:00.000-05:00

As I am pondering and planning how to start eating more healthy again, I run into this quote:

Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing. ~Redd Foxx

It is almost enough to take the fight out of me. Just almost..

A Real Man....

2011-02-06T01:31:00.000-05:00

will carry their significant other's purse. As well as hold doors open for them.

My man is a real man.*

*He might not see it that way. Hopefully he doesn't hate me for posting this picture. It is just too cute.

2011-02-05T01:05:00.000-05:00

Just crossing my fingers that between errands and evening dinner plans, I can find time to relax on this much needed Saturday.

For now...

I am thinking about singing up for this : Postcrossing

I think these are adorable :

Feel free to get me this card for my birthday :

Need Prince Charming...Just Add Water!!!

2011-02-04T16:03:00.000-05:00

VIA: fredflare

Cute Valentines Day Ideas #3

2011-02-04T15:56:00.000-05:00

As good as gummy bears are, I am not sure how I feel about this...


VIA fredflare

But maybe there is someone in your life that could benefit from a giant gummy.

These are a little more normal and kind of cute, even if I am not a fan of this type of candy (sorry can't get the picture to post so I've linked it).