Tales from Washington D.C.

The Difference Between Men & Women

2012-01-26T23:20:00.000-05:00

The other day I received an email from Amazon suggesting some books I might be interested in. The email read:

Andrea,

Are you looking for something in our Wedding Books department? If so, you might be interested in these items.

Here were the titles:

The Wedding Book: The Big Book for Your Big Day
Bridal Bargains: Secrets to throwing a Fantastic Wedding on a Realistic Budget
The Ultimate Wedding Planner & Organizer
The Busy Brides Bible for Planning a Fabulous Wedding Without The Expensive cost of a Wedding Planner

I could not resist and I forwarded the email to my friend Ashley and said "This says something about my life..."

Ashley: How funny if the bf was getting the same recommendations.
Me: Ha! Over his dead body. He is getting titles like:

How do get the milk without buy the cow: A man's guide to training his woman
Help! I don't ever ever ever want to get married and my girlfriend is leaving picture of rings around
Please no, anything but marriage
Never a Groom, Always a P-I-M-P

And that is the difference between Men & Women.

End of Story.

Not Sure What Happened...

2012-01-26T23:10:00.000-05:00

This post just went missing after I posted it....

I think we are back up and running.

I love this gem of a dress, and it is affordable! (Well affordable if I wasn't on a new no-shopping and spending binge trying to get my savings account to look a little bit better these days!)

(And if you would like to buy it for me...well I can tell you where to find me) Found at Delias

In other news I was emptying my mail box this morning before work and in addition to my onslaught of magazines (thank you frequent flier miles) I got a package from Erica! Inside she sent me an awesome pink highlighter (it has a "window" in the tip so you can see what you are highlighting as you go), a Hello Kitty sponge, my favorite erasers that are perfect for crafting and a pretty little soap! For a day that I knew was going to go by super slow since I was dragging, the package totally made my day!

Thank you Erica!

Asking for What Could Make it Great.

2012-01-17T23:02:00.000-05:00

I am a major scaredypants when it comes to:

Saying what I am thinking
Saying what I am feeling
Saying ALL of what I am thinking
Saying ALL of what I am thinking
Telling someone that they missed the mark
Asking for what I REALLY need/want.

By scaredypants I mean I

I have an irrational fear of making people upset with me.
I really avoid conflict like the plague.
I don't want to pile too much on to someone and have them peace out because they find it overwhelming or exahusting.
I usually cry and get all snotty faced when I have to talk about how I am feeling. So I avoid crying and looking snotty faced.

So I avoid talking about all this stuff and then what happens? I totally freak out.

But more importantly, I have started to realize I am only asking and talking to people to get things to a point where they are "ok" or "good". I have gotten so scared of the repercussions of asking for what I really need in a dialogue. I say what is safe. What feels safe. And what I get is the safe response. This usually leaves me feeling more of the same emotion I was feeling, topped of with massive frustration. Frustrated with myself for not saying more and asking for what I need. And irrationally at the person for not reading my mind (beacuse everyone should be able to read my confusing spaghetti pile of thoughts at all times) and knowing that there was more to it.

I need to start asking for what could make "it" great.

I know it will be hard to get out of that mentality fearing that what I say in full-force to someone will turn them off. The reality being, if it does, they probably aren't really contributing to my happiness and success as a person and I shouldn't be stressed out by that. Not saying I should get all abbrasive and demanding--not at all! But saying overcoming this fear of feeling like I am "too much" will result in no more wondering "What if I had asked for THAT" or "What would happen if I just said THIS".

Ironically a large part of my job is people coming to me and confiding their work-related (and sometimes not so work-related) problems and I provide advice on how to navigate a situation. I also get people asking me all the time for what could make it great during offer negotiations. I did it with my current job. I do it in a professional manner. I need to roll it over to my personal life.

Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologize for the truth. ~Benjamin Disraeli

When the Points Count

2012-01-16T16:58:00.000-05:00

I took the plunge. We I am in week three of counting points the Weight Watchers way. It is a lot harder than I thought it was going to be, but I am trying my best to stick with it. I signed up for only the online version since I knew with work there was very little chance I would get off early enough to ever make it to the meetings. Luckily the online points tracker is super easy to use, keeps you crazy accountable and really has made me think about what I eat (and also why am I eating). I need to get a more reliable scale but so far I have seen some results in just how my clothes are fitting.

I have probably been giving myself too much flexibility on the weekends, but I have realized that if I don't have a few days where I am less restrictive I get super demotivated about the whole thing. So thank goodness for the weekly flexpoints and the activity points! Hopefully since my hard earned money is on the line here I will make sure to stick with this and see some real results.

Has anyone else tried WW? Did it work for you?

Strike!

2012-01-15T20:07:00.000-05:00

Last night we went bowling...or should I say COSMIC bowling! We lucked out and arrived just in time for old school lanes to be transformed into a trashy club-meets-eight year old-birthday party complete with glowing pins and bowling balls. I haven't gone bowling since my old company's summer company event- and even then I had organized the event so I wasn't exactly in the place to enjoy the bowling. We went to a place out near my old apartment in Alexandria and I have to say the "charm" of this place is pretty awesome. No dress codes, fancy cocktails, or lounge like seating here! Just straight up old school bowling, greasy food, beer and fabulous bowling shoes.

Now I was honest in saying that I was a really bad bowler, I came clean with this information. Indeed, that proved true, particularly when my hand was getting tired! I was fairly awful, with only a few strikes, a handful of spares and plenty of gutter balls. Now, some individuals claim to be a "bad" bowler, and yet still manage to do pretty stinking well. My bowling partner-in-crime was one of these "bad" bowlers. So needless to say my pathetic score looked even more pathetic as he out scored me all three games! But it was a fun evening and something outside the ordinary for a change.

Action Shot!

Cosmic bowling time!

Jingle All the Way

2011-12-29T19:10:00.001-05:00

En route back to DC as I type. As usual, last night was rough and the first leg of my flight was a big tear laden and snot filled. Always hard to leave loved ones and head back to reality. My vacation was fairly relaxing. I did catch a cold which hindered my plans that I had in mind for this holiday season, but there was also a lack of snow and open ski resorts this year, so I wasn’t missing much when I was home feeling a little less than stellar.
First stop was in Seattle to see many of my amazing friends. I was able to squeeze in a few nights of going out, a run around Greenlake with Sara and Carly,dinner at Cactus, bonding sesh with Monica, shopping with Sara, brunch with the PC, dinner with Brooke (meeting Pearl, seeing her adorable abode and wedding chat!), a real cup of Starbucks and then my first Seattle lightrail experience. Seattle was wonderful and I am so blessed and thankful to have the chance to stop of there on my way home for Christmas. Naturally I hardly took any pictures when I was there (tres sad).

View from Sara’s office

PCO’Flare Brunch. Everyone was a bit sleep deprived.

Pike Place Market at Sunset.

Chowder Lunch with Sara.

Monica bough tequila. Oh. No.

I flew home mid-day and was able to grab dinner with my dad before heading home to say hello to my favorite poodle.

As usual I had to cram all of my Christmas shopping into the few precious days before the 25th and set out to get some of it done as soon as I could the next day. After running around and accomplishing some shopping I got to head home to see Nicole and Wyatt who had driven down from Sun Valley. Wyatt has gotten cuter (if that is possible) and has a vocabulary like no ones business.

Playing with Gramps train under the tree

Getting a little hair cut. Curls didn’t go away!

Tickle. He asks you to tickle him.

Sadly both my mom and I came down with some nasty colds/sinus infections/etc. and we ended up being home bound many of the days I was home. I did get to spend lots of time with Wyatt and Nicole. and some how managed to finish all my shopping with a little bit to spare.
Christmas eve was spent at my aunts doing our traditional dinner, drinks, gift game and presents event. It is one of my favorite nights of the entire year and I am always looking forward to seeing my cousins, aunt and uncle.

Opening one of the first gifts of the traditional gift game. Lotter Tickets of course.

Drawing the next name. Drinks.

Ham.

Playing race with his cousin.

Reading the new Brown Bear Brown Bear book with cousins.

Opening Idaho gear. Complete with beer of choice.

Christmas morning was complete with rolls stockings and getting a start on opening gifts. Wyatt had even more than last year and I kid you not when I say we were still opening gifts at 9pm! Wyatt enjoyed taking his sweet time and wanted to play with each gift as he opened it…so it took awhile to get through the pile.

Thomas, the remote controlled train.

Opening his fire truck. (This is Christmas evening when we were in different jammies and STILL opening gifts).

Wyatt loved the chocolate peanut butter balls and even helped himself to another bon bon.

Theo was chewing his paws….so Wyatt decided to too.

The last few days were spent exchanging gifts,baking, taking naps, cuddling with the poodle, walks with Wyatt, gingerbread house decorating (Wyatt’s First!) watching movies, grabbing lunch and brunch with friends.

Wyatt’s first gingerbread house! He was more into eating the candy and licking the frosting off the house.

Needless to say. The house was a masterpiece.

Go Caps!

Brunch with some of my favorite people in Idaho.

The return to DC came all too quickly and I am not looking forward to returning to work or the reality of bigkidlife.
On my flight to SFO I had to really think of things I am looking forward to to distract me from being too upset and scaring the person next to me with my tears. I did come up with some great things: I am looking forward to seeing the man, having a three day weekend after a short Friday at the office, taking an art class with Ben, catching up with friends. And longer term I am looking forward to a ski trip in March, my second niece/nephew’s arrival in April, and Brooke’s wedding in May.

Marshmallows & Mice

2011-12-13T23:52:00.000-05:00

I leave for Seattle in less three days. THREE days. I have SO much to do. Personally. Work-wise. Christmas shopping wise. It is a bit overwhelming. But we are pushing through and working as much as possible so I can disconnect as much as possible for the Seattle/Idaho extravaganza!

Well tonight as a break from work (and since I have been telling the bf I would) I made marshmallows. Let's just say I didn't exactly execute them very well. Right now I have a giant puddle of marshmallow fluff "firming" in my kitchen. Let's be clear. I don't think this firming that the recipe speaks of is going to happen. Sigh. So maybe I feed it him with spoons? Ugh. Well I tried right?

At least it looks pretty. Just sitting on my counter. All stuck to the pan and not firming.

I will do as the recipe says, and let them sit over night. And maybe, just maybe, with a bit of magic they will set-up and be awesome. Or I will scrape it into the trash.

There are some new additions to my kitchen. They were an acquisition from IKEA. I find them adorable and once I got them home I knew they needed to live in the kitchen.

I need some name ideas if people are feeling creative this evening.

Well keep your fingers crossed for my baking disaster. Let's hope it surprises me in the morning!

_________________________________________________

As I went to finish this post the mice made me think of a story that was told all the time about my sister and my grandma ( on my dad's side). My Grandma Tory never liked mice. In fact she hated them. Down right couldn't stand them. Well my sister made her a little cloth mouse one year. I am not sure if it was for Christmas or what. But it was in a little box and my grandma opened it and if I remember correctly- screamed and didn't want a lot to do with the little cloth mouse. I don't know why this so vividly sticks out in my head, but I always remember that story.

I was also thinking today that I remember her wearing this beautiful necklace. It was on a gold chain and it was like a glass bubble (flatish- kind of like a locket that doesn't open) but it was filled with gold dust. I used to sit with her and constantly turn it over and over in my hands. It was a beautiful necklace and now that I think about it...have no idea where it ended up.

Well officially off to bed! 'Night blog world!

Moments By iPhone

2011-12-06T17:27:00.000-05:00

Christmas Ornament Diplay Rack @ IKEA--Purple Wall in My Apartment with Tiny Ornaments--Chicken on a Chain, My Office Bull--A Cup Of Tea in My Turkish Tea Glass--The DC Inspection Station, felt like just yesterday I did that--Jay-Z being Dramatic-- Idaho State Society's STOMP--Christmas Lights in My Window with Nibblet

Bitter Much?

2011-12-06T16:54:00.000-05:00

I've been a pretty bitter person for the last ~~24 hrs.~~ No wait. ~~2 weeks.~~ Ok, let's be honest with ourselves now... perhaps last year of my life has seemed to be riddled with tough, trying, emotional, complicated, makemecryuntilIamgoodandneasousandlooklikeIhaveaneyeinfection crap that I have allowed entirely to get the best of me. Thus resulting in the bitter.

It is a slippery slope too. Granted, the transition to DC has always felt hard. "Growing up" after college has felt challenging, but I think I started getting angsty about one thing, got overwhelmed that I couldn't sort through the feelings and then slipped right on down that double-black-diamond-of-a-cliff called selfhateredandlifeloathing. Now now...I don't hate myself, OR my life. But I do feel like I have let myself get the best of me. Yesterday morning I said something that made me so disgusted with my attitude that even I didn't want to be around me. I seriously was like "Ugh. Good Lord. Who would want to spend time with you!?". I woke up, put myself together and got to the office. I turned off the distractions, put in some serious effort into some linger to-do projects and tried to just focus on what I needed to do today. I took a few minutes to grab lunch, read some blogs, and order a book I have been meaning to get. And then, I stumbled across someone else's words.

Reading them I knew that I was fated to see those words. To read them; to have them hit so close to my little heart that it scared me, and to stop and say "Wait".

What dawned on me was that I needed to shape up right now. Kind of like where Olivia Newton John sings that song in Grease, the one where she lets Danny know that he needs to shape up? (Loved that movie as a kid).

Yes I have some major shit I am working through. And it is scary and I am allowed to be a big snotty, crying, scared, confused mess about it. But the stuff that has become automatic for me to complain about needs to be stopped.

So this is a post to do some damage control. And hopefully for those of you who experienced this hideous side of me in the past few days will see this as an extension of my sincerest apologies.

We went to IKEA this weekend and I don't even remember what set me off, but I went from WhooooIKEA! IloveallofyourstuffandwantandneedtoownmorecrapthanIwouldeverneed to this uber depressed Eeyore of a person who I am not even kidding said: "With my luck, I will only move into smaller and smaller apartments". For realz. There are so many things wrong with this statement I could vomit.

First of all. It is ludicrous. I have done nothing but moved from better living situation to better living situation since moving here. So unless I decide to become a starving artist, I am fairly certain that someday (maybe not tomorrow) I will move into an amazing place with a real bedroom and a kitchen with counter space and a bathroom that has storage space.
I love my apartment. I pay for it. It is decorated how I like. It is small, but at the same time when I snuggle up on my couch and look at my Christmas lights there is a warmth and coziness to it that feel like a home.
I have a roof. I have a bed. I have food. I have an oven. I even have a metal chicken named Jay-Z. I am blessed.
"Don't compare your insides to anyone else's outsides". My apartment is perfectly adequate and I should be proud. End of story.

Damage Control Numero Dos:

In response to "What do you have going on today" I said something to the effect of "TodayisgoingtosuckbeforeIevengetoutofbedandIshouldn'teventrybecausetheendoftheworldiscomingforthe9millionthtime"

Yea. It was ugly. Even it being Monday isn't an excuse for such a I-Hate-Everything response.

So here it goes. I am going to re-answer, and show that indeed, nothing warranting that ugly response has or will probably occur today.

Edited response:

"Well I am not thrilled it is Monday. Always hard to head back to the office after a weekend. I have a few meetings today and also need to work on some policies I have been drafting and get caught up on some of my recruiting efforts. After work I have to run to Georgetown and then I want to get a run in since I am trying to get on the bandwagon after my long hiatus from the gym."

There.

Not painful. Not miserable. Typical. Average. Day. So buck up Sparky.

So there it is. I slipped right on down that slide of misery, angst and bitterness only to now try to run up that slippery plastic, twisted piece of plastic like in my elementary school days. And just like then. I am sure I am going to eat it and slide right back down, but hopefully I'll take another stab and stop whining like it is my job.

Found Here

Where to Start

2011-11-29T23:02:00.000-05:00

I feel lost even trying to start this "back in the saddle" post. I honestly was very much on the verge of closing down shop with TFWDC (ya...you like that abbreviation don't you?). I have been wary of the "drama" and then judgement that comes with putting my life on here.

I also started to have those questions of what do I "filter". What do I write about? Who do I write about? It was paralyzing. All of the "what ifs" I had swirling around in my head. But I think I am over it.

And back to hopefully documenting things not just for myself but also for you crazy people who read this and find it interesting still. Thank you for flattering me.

There has been a lot left off of here since I took my hiatus. It's sad to think those memories probably won't be commited to memory here. Hopefully I will remember them and then moving forward I will learn my lesson about not sharing moments when they happen. I want to provide a brieft summary of life. But honestly--it feels like an empty attempt.

My family did just visit me in DC for Thanksgiving. I did go to Turkey (like the country). I just put up my meager Christmas decorations.I bought new sheets. There was another bathtub incident. I'm learning that trust and doubt can be some of the most raw and complex feelings to understand. My hair has seemed to grow a lot since I cut it> I am going to be on the Best Coast in 17 days from today.

Maybe I will start with that above list and work my way through some posts to get myself back up to speed with what I have been doing with myself these days.

Well I guess I will say "Thank You" for not giving up on me quite yet here. Hopefully I will redeem myself. I do have some awesome pictures to put up if you can hang with me just awhile longer.

Is It Really That Thing Called Monday Again Tomorrow?

2011-10-30T22:57:00.000-04:00

This weekend just slipped through my fingers. I feel like I hardly did anything in the past few days, and it was a week that I really needed a solid weekend after. Needless today say...I am a bit bummed to be headed back to work tomorrow (granted working on a Sunday night in pjs on ones couch isn't much better).

It snowed yesterday which was crazy. There have been a lot of Halloween costume sightings. Particularly in the morning...watching a bumble bee carry her heels to the bus stop never gets old in my book.

To rewind, a few weekends ago we were having brunch at a place down the street from my apartment and I encountered this:

"This" meaning a double yolked egg.

I am fairly certain this is my first and only double yolked egg I have ever encountered. What a stroke of good luck I thought to myself! Well, while I will stick to my idea that this is an omen of good luck, after some online google research I was quick to find the double yolked eggs are not only associated with good luck but also with:

an omen of marriage or a proposal
the birth of twins
a tragic family issue

Let's stick with the omen of good luck shall we?

With Halloween tomorrow I have been admiring people's fall decorations and their Halloween spirit. The other weekend in Old Town I saw these two houses that had done a classy little decorating for tomorrow's holiday.

Some cute little pumpkins always add that perfect fall touch to any doorway.

I hope that you all have fun, festive and safe Halloweens tomorrow. I have plans to hand out some candy at a friend's house, bake some sweet treats and watch Hocus Pocus. (I'm providing a little clip for your enjoyment)!

99 Problems and the Chicken Isn't One of Them

2011-10-13T00:42:00.000-04:00

Everyone meet Jay-Z:

He is MY metal chicken. And yes those are forks that are making his wings. I adore each little yellow toe that he had.

I am thinking about photographing him sitting outside on people's doormats. But then I would be worried that he would get chickennaped. And we don't want that.

Jay-Z is the mini boyfriend of Beyonce. He traveled many miles to come live with me and we already have bonded as he sits right by my bed so I wake up to that darling little beak of his.

I know...you love him too.

He's kind of awesome.

I am about to be gone for awhile. Just a little while I say. But I will be back with tale galore and will be excited to catch up in the blog world! In the meantime Jay-Z will be my watchchicken and will hold down the fort around here.

Sunday Funday

2011-10-09T21:22:00.000-04:00

Well let's see. I have obviously been on a bit of a hiatus. And will be taking another one in just a few days. But more about that later.

For now let me see if I can find something interesting to talk about. I need to write a post about Charlottesville last weekend to see University of Idaho play UVA.

This weekend has been its usual. Luckily I am heading into a 3 day work week (again- more on that later).

Friday I chopped off my hair again for Lock of Love.I have made this something I am continually doing. I grow my hair out, cut it off and do it all over again. I love the cause that it goes to and it is something I can do for other without even really thinking about it. It has been awhile since I have had really short hair and I am really enjoying the cut I got done. I went to Randolph Cree in Capitol Hill based on yelp reviews and other things I read online that talked about this salon's "home-like" feeling and the stylists ability to "get" what you described. I was fortunate to get an appointment with Even who is a co-owner of the salon and everything lived up to my expectations. The environment of the salon was very inviting and comfortable. Evan was awesome! He listened to what I wanted, looked at the photos I had brought in and made sure I was comfortable with the length he was going to cut ( a nice gesture considering I was losing a fair amount of hair!) and then gave me a great hair cut that I am really enjoying. I think he really understood my need to have something that was low-maintenance, had some movement, went in a ponytail and didn't get poofy. Overall I think that I have found someplace, and someone I will continue to go to for my haircuts.

So now you are all curious of what this new 'do looks like. Well here we go:

(I apologize for the awkward mirror photos-- I didn't have a lot of options for photographers this evening)

I'm kind of digging it. And the fact that I actually look like the mid-20 year old that I am. It's been awhile.

Dichotomy

2011-09-27T23:50:00.000-04:00

I shy away from posting some of my crazy irrationalpotenitallyrationalbutidon'twantogothere thoughts right now.

Readers Digest version: Things are really hard right now.

But in the spirit of dichotomy and trying to see the two sides to everything right now I am going to follow some Rockstar Diaries inspiration and tell you 10 things that are making me happy right now. (I know--right?)

1) My family. My sister calling to tell me she wants to talk steam mops when I know she is just calling to make sure I am still going to work and taking showers. And my mom leaving me facebook messages. And emails from my dad. And videos of Wyatt.
2) My new boat shoes. (Alright Sam....you win)
3) That fact that fall is right around the corner. So close you can almost feel it.
4) Friends. 'Nuf said.
5) Knowing I am not the crazy cat lady with the really dead Christmas tree that I met tonight.
6) Paper straws.
7) Listening to songs from the Jazzercize days with E.
8) S'mores bars. These are unreal.
9) Grey's Anatomy is back on!
10) Fall beers. And Cider.

What Gets You Through

2011-09-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

This has been on my Spotify non-stop this weekend. I don't claim to have even remotely good music taste. But I know what makes me feel certain ways, and this was just what I have been needing to keeping moving forward right now.

This happened tonight:

I have dropped this phone so many times and naturally when I just can't possibly take anymore I drop it and crack the screen. So minor. But I was hysterical. Naturally.

And before I sign off to head to bed and to start the week. I want to say "Thank You" to some people (I hope you know who you all are!) . You are the absolute most amazing people, and I am blessed beyond words to have people like you in my life.

Pittsburgh..The Place to Be

2011-09-19T01:17:00.000-04:00

I have been meaning to take advantage of long weekends for awhile now. There is always the "oh let's go to ____[fill in blank with city/town]____" and then nothing happens. Not to mention I always look at a three day weekend and go "wooo sleep!". Labor day rolled around and I finally took advantage of a long weekend and was able to get up to Pittsburgh and see the city in the pouring rain (luckily me and rain are long time friends). Despite the nasty weather we had a really enjoyable weekend full of comical errors.

One highlight was getting to see Falling Water outside of Pittsburgh. Photos can not to this house justice. You are not allowed to take pictures when you are inside but the inside was just as inspirational as the outside. There were so many amazing architectural elements (a ship hatch that opened to stairs that went directly down to to the waterfall, a central 'trunk' of the house that had unique folding windows, the 'canopy' that covers the walk from the main house to the guest house, boulders that were build around, of course the waterfall, and all the elements that forced ones eye outside as Wright intended). Our tour lasted around an hour and we were in a group of about 15 people. The tour was very informative but I sure it would vary with every tour guide. As I am sure some of you have heard, the house did encounter some structural issues that have now been corrected. There is a movie on the renovation and how they ran cables under the existing floors to pull the structure back up. I will have to get my hands on it after seeing the house in person. I think what really stood out to me is that Falling Water is one of the only FLW houses to have the original structure AND the majority of the original furnishings that were all designed by Wright as well.

I have a bajillion photos so I will spare you and share just some of the highlights.

These are the stairs that have a ship-like hatch at the top and the lead right down to the stream and falls so the family could swim and fish and feel like the stream was right in the living space.

These windows are what was all the way up the "trunk" (there is a real name for it but I don't remember) of the house. It was really neat to see them open and see how Wright was breaking down the idea that structures should be made of boxes within boxes.

I loved seeing the natural elements meet the structual parts of the home.

Care was taken to not destroy something just because it was in the path of something structural.

I can also say that we are also just grateful that we actually got to take our tour. We cut it real close with our timing but luckily pulled it off!

After Falling Water we headed up to Pittsburgh. Found our hotel and rested for a bit. Ok we rested for awhile becasue we soon figured out that our picks for places to eat that night were all closing and we were kind of out of luck to find someplace to eat. So we ate at Morton's. Yes, we had $50 steaks and delish wine to top of the day. While it was comical since we had no intentions of such a over the top meal, it was very tasty and definetly filled us up!

The next morning the grey had settled in. We were in no hurry to get an early start to just get soaked so we took our time getting ready and watching some classy and fabulous TV about hunting. Love. it.

We decided to head over to the Monongahela Incline and take it up the side of Mt. Washington. These rail car systems were build in the 1800's to transport people from work sites from their homes. They are still in use today and they take you to a breathtaking (even in the pouring rain) view of Pittsburgh.

Completely drenched we headed back to our hotel to get the car and then we grabbed some lunch at Primanti Brothers which serves these HUGE sandwiches that have fries and coleslaw on the sandwich! Needless to say, it was really good. After that we did some driving around through some different neighborhoods, saw a few of the schools up there, the ball park (which we had planned to see in a game in, but didn't want to sit in the rain) and then started our drive back home. The crowning jewel to the weekend of error and unexpected issues was the 2 miles we went in about 2 hrs. It was torturous traffic! Luckily we laughed it off, found some back roads eventually and made it home.

Running Roadblock and Back On Track

2011-09-17T22:18:00.000-04:00

I had finally gotten the courage to run outside and I can say that I actually enjoyed it! I was not nearly as self conscious or overwhelmed by the natural landscape as I thought I was going to be. I did notice that I was running faster and was also getting some major cramps really early on in my runs. I worked on pacing myself, warming up and stopping to stretch as needed. After a few of these runs I started feeling my right hip the next day. It was the pinchy, uncomfortable, achy, not so great feeling. Unfortunately I think I had aggravated an old dance injury from freshman year. I have been pretty lucky that I have never had any major issues with the injury and at the time we were able to treat the injury with a non-surgical option.Granted everything I read about the injury back then and even now says that you will have an increased chance of arthritis and then since there is a lot of scar tissue that forms there are times that there will be discomfort.

Discouraged from the pain, I took a break from running. I figured no point in aggravating something that hasn't given my problems for years. After a week or so of zero running, I finally noticed that I wasn't having pain anymore. I did do some reading and there are other people out there with my injury and they all had some advice on how to continue running safely. The key point being that if it hurts- stop. So listening to that I have moved my running back inside for the time being and really slowed down my pace. I have done three runs now under those conditions and I have had zero pain which is great! My idea of running in an actual 5k my be thwarted if running outside is causing some of the pain, but I will take this compromise so I can at least keep challenging myself in the gym. At some point I am sure I will need to reevaluate if it is time to possibly have the surgery and clean up the hip joint, but luckily for now I am feeling 100% better and my runs are still continuing to improve.

Image found via Diana S Pinterest

This is the Kind of Week it Has Been...

2011-09-16T12:25:00.001-04:00

Yes I am so out of it this Friday that I put not one, but two heat sleeves on my cup of coffee this morning. I am really in need of this weekend!

And yes that is my Miss Potato head that sits in my window to keep me grounded and remind me where I came from. I-da-ho represent!

I have been going going going going at work for weeks now. I am recruiting for about 15 positions, and still trying to work on this big project that seems to be going no where, and then also fit in all my other "duties". It has been slow and frustrating progress for sure.

Amazingly we finally have fall here in DC. Yesterday it seemed like in a matter of 2-3 hours the temperature dropped and mother nature decided that it was in fact time for it to be fall and to have some brisk weather. I love it! I walked to work this morning just to enjoy the fresh air and the fact that I didn't break a sweat after 2-3 blocks of walking. It is supposed to be like this all weekend so I can not wait to get some relaxing, blogging, reading (the book I seem to have lost), studying, shopping, and crafting in.

Happy Friday!

Nothing Exciting.

2011-09-08T05:05:00.000-04:00

My new "Big Girl" camera is a wonderful new toy. I spend a lot of time photographing the same thing over and over again just playing with the aperture, shutter speed, ISO and exposure features to see what I can get. I am know where close to getting comfortable with the new camera, but I enjoy her and like the learning experience. I have a ton to learn no doubt but I am also always so overwhelmed with the quality of photos.

Being an Adult: Whatever that Means

2011-09-07T22:59:00.000-04:00

I remember when I was younger (lots younger) and thinking that twenty-five was old. Like really old. I also had images that twenty-five meant you had your shit together. You were supposed to know stuff- like real stuff when you are twenty-five. Well here I am at the ripe age of twenty-five and while I will admit I have a long and undoubtedly very interesting and blessed life ahead of myself I can't help but think about the things I thought I was supposed to know how to do or understand at this point and realize that I may actually be farther away from figuring these things out than when I was eight. Here are some things I thought any twenty-five year old would have under control:

What you are doing with your life.
A job you love and are really good at.
The idea of what "comes next".
What you want out of everything. Everything.
A group of friends that provide endless entertainment.
A flawless relationship.
Love.
Classy bedding. Adults sleep in nice bedding. And their beds are always made. Perhaps even when they are in them.
A stocked fridge and pantry. And the culinary skills to just whip something up when they get home.
Lots of heels that you wear all the time.
A place for everything
A house with enough bedrooms for all those little tiny humans you plan on birthing any minute.
People who report to you. Kids, employees, husband, etc.
Eating breakfast. That you made. With your significant other. Reading the paper.
Adult clothes.
You magically exceed being five feet tall.
No crying. Except when you are really sad. Your a strong woman that people respect.
Coming home to your very own dog.
Credit cards.
A nice shiny new car.
Vacations with family, friends and significant others.
Christmas trees. You start having your very own real one.
Season tickets to the ballet or philharmonic.
Brunch. Every weekend.
Lots of skiing. Every weekend (after brunch naturally)

I will leave it at twenty-five. But the point I am getting here is that life is anything but what it seems. I have a hard time not beating myself up for not even coming close to being the "twenty-five year old" I am supposed to have turned into. While some of my ideas of what being an adult ended up being plain wrong- some of them are still things I hope I grow up into.

Right now I am a perfectly underdeveloped twenty-five year old who buys too many sponges:

Can't make her bed in the frenzy of the morning routine (and sleeps with bears):

And who survives on cereal, coffee and wine (when things get really rough):

Blogging with Bullet Points

2011-09-01T00:06:00.000-04:00

Today was insane. Yesterday was busy. Tomorrow is crahzay. Friday is a little better. Tuesday and Wednesday last week don't have a single open time slot in Outlook. Pray for me and my job. I am recruiting for what is about 1/3 of our current staff level. It. Is. Insane. Not to mention---I am not a full time recruiter. I have other things going on with my job too.
I am super behind on life. Like real life. Like all that stuff that is supposed to happen when you are out of the office. I feel like my apartment is "not dirty" but it doesn't feel clean to me. I need to just scrub nooks and crannys and get the bag of my old dresser parts into a dumpster. Take a bag of clothes to good will. Dust. Steam mop. Organize paper. And clean my stove top-blech. But it must be done. Hopefully tomorrow. If I don't work 12 hrs.
The weather has been fantastic! I have my windows open. No air conditioner. Just me, sleep and a ceiling fan. It is magical.
It is SEPTEMBER. Wowza. Where did that come from I ask? Yesterday it was May. I swear. I just turned 25. Now I am 25 and 3 months. Not ok.
My hair is looonnnnggg. Like really long. Not like it was in high school (amen) but we are getting really close to those 10 inches for my next Locks of Love donation. Not only am I going to cut it this time....I think we are going to do some blonde. I am tired of the dark hair bs that occurred sometime in college. So short. Blondish. And hopefully more adult looking. Not to mention I am ready to get rid of these headaches that seem to occur daily from this mop of hair I cart around with me.

I think that is all the random thoughts from my head right now. I am pooped. Tired. Exhausted. Oh so ready for my big comfy bed!

Weekend Re-Cap: Movie, Grocery, Irene, Aftermath

2011-08-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

Friday night I went to dinner and a movie with a friend. We saw One Day which made me really want to read the book, but didn't sell me as an incredible movie. Anne Hathaway was less than desirable with the fake British accent. Granted it was a true to form chick-flick and a much welcomes escape from the real world right now.

Saturday started the anticipation of waiting for Irene to arrive. She was rumored to be a big nasty display of weather and it started raining around 11am in the morning. A steady rain with increasing rain. To avoid going stir crazy we squeezed in some lunch and frozen custard before heading home and snuggling in for the evening. The grocery store hinted at DC's normal hoarding habits when we have a natural disaster.

As usual water was a hot commodity and then toilet paper (?) seemed to be the item of choice to stock up one. Luckily I felt that I was sufficiently stocked up on my home paper products to survive the great hurricane.

Earlier this week a new pair of sweats that I had ordered came in the mail and it could not have been better timing to have a evening where I was going to live in pjs.

Photo via Victoriasecret.com

I honestly may never go to work again just so I don't have to take these off. They are so luxuriously comfortable! I may buy another pair just to make sure I am never without these!

As we settled in with some heaping bowls of pasta, a Mad Men marathon and some beer I had to laugh at the weather forecast:

Loving that 100% rain for hours on end! It really did rain and rain and rain and rain and rain. I sadly was asleep and slept through what I was told was the worst of the storm so I missed all the excitement. Luckily no serious damage took place in my neighborhood. A few down branches and trees but very minor damage.

I am glad the hype is over. Hopefully this is the last of the natural disaster streak we have had! Luckily today has felt like the potential start of fall which I will welcome gladly this year!

I Felt the Earth Shake Under My Feet

2011-08-25T23:23:00.000-04:00

So there was an earthquake if you haven't already heard. It was rather exciting if I do say so. Since DC is not normally a city that experiences earthquakes people were particularly shaken (no pun intended) by this. Even today (as talks shift to our next natural disaster--a hurricane named Irene) people are still talking about where they were right before, when, and right after the 'quake. Rather amusing if you ask me. Just as DC does everything else with a bit of sass...so are people's reactions.

Luckily what I witnessed was very low key. My office building was evacuated and we ended up having to stand on the sidewalks for quite awhile as building inspectors deemed the building "safe". We did have to use the stairs which was a workout for sure when you work on the 8th floor! By the time I headed home most people had fled the city (I kid you not) so the bus was empty and I wasn't caugh in any crazy traffic on the way home. Nothing was wrong with my apartment except for a few items on the floor that weren't there in the morning.

Next up is some crazy wind and rain. Tonight I had to get milk to have cereal for dinner (back to iamanadultandicaneatanddowhatiwant) and I stocked up one "hurricane essentials" (ok ok, rather what I would want to eat if I get stuck in my apartment all weekend with my book and TiVo. Here is what came home:

1 gallon of milk
2 boxes of cereal
1 bag of frozen ready to cook hashbrowns
1 cartoon of eggs
1 pack bacon (a girl needs her sunday morning breakfast!)
Butter (running low- I promise I am not going to start licking butter to stay alive)
1 bottle of white wine
1 package of pre-made chocolate chip cookie dough
1 package of instant pudding

ok so what we have learned. I obviously have no crisis management skills once I am outside of the office. But by damn I can create a disaster management plan for a whole floor of people. Go college degree!

Luckily I don't think I will starve to death between the breakfast food and fatty mcfatterson choices I lugged home.

Anyone having a hurricane party? Nothing better to do when it is pouring rain!

Copy Cat

2011-08-21T22:35:00.000-04:00

I have been getting odd cravings to immediately make recipes that I come across on TV, from blogs, in magazines, etc.. A few weeks ago it was the falafel on Food Network and then more recently it was a post on a Fly Through Our Window that had crispy peanut butter bars and chicken curry salad. Here is the post that has Darby's original recipes that spurred the food making frenzy.

Well I read. I craved. I made. Both. In one night. (I also spilled over half a glass of sweet tea on my couch and ended up sitting on my floor devouring my makings like a poor college student)

Both turned out well and I would make both again for sure. I did add grapes to my chicken curry salad (I think Darby mentions that she doesn't like them because they get mushy- but I saw them at the store and decided to include them. They seemed to hold up the next day but I can see after a few days how they could be a bit yucky). I also wish I had buckled down and gone to Whole Foods to get some quality bibb lettuce because what I got at the Safeway down the street just fell apart in my hands when I washed it. The recipe did make a lot of salad which was great because I was able to have lunch left overs AND send some home with my co-worker for her to have for dinner!

The crispy bars were good. Almost peanut butter overkill for me, but I do have to say these made an awesome on the go breakfast for the week so I could avoid the office cafe! I also could have done with a lot more shredded coconut. Yum! So delish.

Also-- read Fly Through Our Window. Darby is such an inspiration. She has a wonderful family, a adorable t-shirt business, amazing photos, great food, a twin sister with a fantastic blog and just lives and all around awesome life.

Ballet Toms

2011-08-16T07:48:00.000-04:00

My Toms love affair is no secret at this point. I go through my fair share of Toms sand wear them almost everyday on the way to work before I change into heels. I saw these the other day and naturally fell love as they are ballet inspired!

I would totally rock these with some pale pink, grey and white outfits. However I feel like these would be a 2-3 wear shoe as they would get so dirty! Probably why they are in the wedding section on the Toms website.

Two Sides to a Coin

2011-08-15T20:41:00.000-04:00

There are two sides to every story right?

So what happens when you can see both sides of the coin?

What do you believe in when one side is lovely and the other is ugly?

As much as I want to, and did believe in the lovely, I am starting to see that their may be a lot more truth in the ugly.

Metal Chicken Sighting

2011-08-15T07:18:00.002-04:00

About a month ago Miss Sara sent me a link to a hilarious blog post. (Sara is the queen of keeping me up to date on great blogs so my reading doesn't get stale!). I was at work when I read TheBloggess's story about her discovering and delivery of a giant metal chicken. You have to go read her story (I still cry laughing I find it so funny) and then make sure you read the first follow-up. And then finally- her latest installation about the metal chicken.

Well last weekend we were out on the the Eastern Shore in MD getting some crabs (post soon about MD blue crabs, their lungs, and really having to work for your meal) and we saw this guy:

Look familiar?

Sara- I almost bought him for you. Sadly I don't think I would have been forgive if I would have suggested strapping him to the top of the car.

A Greener Clean and Other TV Goodness

2011-08-14T22:09:00.000-04:00

I should probaly never have gotten cable. It was a luxury that due to a year end special I was able to afford on my budget. I love coming home from home from work, flopping on the couch and watching an episode of House Hunters, Say Yes to the Dress, The Bachelor/ette, etc. Obviously this can get very out of control if I am feeling lazy. Today was massive lazy afternoon. (I did have a productive morning prepping for some things I have upcoming this week). But then I took a quick nap and it all went downhill from there.

So in honor of my wasted hours this afternoon I figured I could turn it into some sort of productivity and write about a few things that have caught my eye on TV lately.

First off. I always thought the Beggin Strips commercials for those rediculous bacon shapped dog treats where hilarious. (The poodle loves those things). They recently came out with a new version of the Bacon! commercial and there is a poodle. Must share.

Second, I have seen the commecial for the new Scotch-Brite Greener Clean sponges. I have started looking for them in the grocery story and Target and I have yet to seen them. I can't wait to try them out! Made with natural and recycled fibers these seem like a great thing to incorporate into my household as I seem to have a clean/new sponge fetish since I have to hand wash every single on of my dishes. Check out the products here. If anyone finds these let me know where!

Found @ hiphomeowner.com

Last, but certainly not least, since I could watch (and laugh) this a million times in the new Geico commerical. Hopefully this brings back some childhood memories and makes some of you laugh.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-08-05T10:00:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to take a moment to wish my wonderful mom a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Wish I was there to celebrate with you today!

I love you mom! I know this is the start of another wonderful year full of adventures, love and happiness!

XOXO,

Andrea

Virgina Peaches, Apples and Wines. Oh My!

2011-08-05T06:00:00.001-04:00

A few weekends ago Sam organized for a few people to meet up and go peach picking out in Virginia. As I am sure most of you have witness and/or heard at this point, DC's summer heat issues have been out of control this summer so we dragged ourselves out of bed early on Saturday morning to get out to the orchard. The drive out to the orchard was beautiful. Ashley and I did have to set Sam straight about "mountains" vs. "rolling hills" but once we all came to consensus we all could appreciate the rolling hills. We went to Stribling Orchard and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to go pick peaches or apples. We had a great time and the staff at the orchard was incredibly friendly and helpful. We are already thinking about an apple picking adventure and I have some ambitions to make some apple butter!

I was surprised at how small the peach trees were. The peaches were easy to pick from my 5 foot advantage point.

Picking some peaches

The beautiful Virginia rolling hills and view from the orchard.

My loot from the adventure. I brought home about 18 pounds of peaches for under $20! What a deal!

After picking peaches we found some shaded picnic tables and chowed down on our eclectic lunches that we packed for the day. The highlight was the childhood enjoyment of my fruit rollups that I had purchased earlier in the day.

(Ashley, Sam and Sarah- You can thank me later for posting these. And don't worry...we didn't let Ashley eat the plastic as much as she wanted to)

After lunch we decided to check out a vineyard that was just next to the orchard. Chateau O' Brien does wine tastings for $5 and we were able to sample a variety of their wines. Their venue is very nice and they have an on-site dog who is a mascot! We all really liked their Virginia Apple Wine and purchased bottles for $20. I am sipping on some tonight!

After we finished our wine tasting there we decided to try out one more vineyard since it was a lazy Saturday, hot as can be in DC and why not, right? Luckily we had Sam with us and he remember there being a vineyard just down a dirt road and over a few rolling hills. After a non-conventional driving route we found Linden Vineyards.I am not even sure I want to write about this place because it was such a treat!

The vineyard was set just far enough off the main road that you really felt like you had "gotten away". We were warmly greeted when we came in and did another $5 wine tastings. These wines were really good! We all seemed to really like many of them and knew we would have a hard time picking just a few bottles to take home with us. After the normal tasting we also were allowed to taste an amazing desert wine they had that was incredibly fragrant and savory. After our tasting we were told about their membership that allowed people to come and sit on their beautiful veranda that overlooks the vineyards and drink wine and dine on cheese and bread. We lucked out and due to the heat, the normal membership requirements (the purchase of a case of wine) was waived and we selected a bottle of wine to split and enjoy outside. We also ordered two portions of fresh chevre with some fresh baked baguette.

I can not rave enough about Linden Vineyards. We had such a great afternoon enjoy each other company, the wine and cheese and a day away from the busy DC world. I would have to say that we are still thinking about the case membership so we can go again and have another wonderful afternoon.

3 Year DCversary

2011-08-04T22:06:00.000-04:00

Today is my 3 year DCversary. T.H.R.E.E. Y.E.A.R.S.

Oh.

My.

Is all I can say. I never ever ever ever ever imagined I would still be here. I am not really sure what to focus on writing this post. How three years feels like the blink of an eye? How three years feels like eternity with no end? How these three years have been the most challenging and life changing in my life? The highlights of what has happened to me here? Favorite memories? Why I am still here?

I guess the following ramblings will have to do as I sit here wondering how time possibly got to this point.

Three years ago Alex and I moved into our one bedroom apartment. We lived with a desk as a kitchen table. Mismatched chairs. A bedspread that was too small for our bed. Camp chairs. No TV (but a TV stand). A GIANT desk. Hardly enough money (well I hardly had any money). And an ambition to buy blue plates. Almost a year later we divided the assets, realized we never found blue plates, which was maybe a sign, and went our separate ways. I ventured out to find myself in a city that I never thought I would find anything in.

After that I somehow found a roommate off of craigslist and lived in an apartment that was worthy of a TV show. Battled some roaches (a lot of roaches). Learned how to brine a turkey. Really started to understand the power of friendships, especially the ones that conducted from opposite sides of the country. Learned to fall in love with a lot of things. Started to figure out what wearing big girl pants was all about. And then decided that it was either me or the roaches. The roaches won.

My first attempt at living on my own. Talk about being an adult. I now 100% understand why people say that if you can, living on your own before you get married is one of the most valuable experiences. I have learned a lot about how to live: I now get excited about recycled sponges, laundry detergent that is on sale, dishwashers seem like unicorns, and I have learned to appreciate making a space that you love and can call your very own. But also have started learning about being your own best friend and realizing it is okay to have whatever life you have and to not be self conscious of who you are and what you enjoy.
I also learned how to paint stripes. I am a pro stripe painter. I am constantly shocked when I open my front door and see that I own an apartment full of furniture, books, kitchen things, lines and clothes.

It is moving into year three that I can officially say I am a "DCer". Whatever that means. It feels a bit like a battle scar. A reminder that this was never the life I saw. But above all

it is an accomplishment.

It is a tale I will always tell.

And that is the end of me sentimental sappy post.

Today.

2011-07-17T00:26:00.000-04:00

It was stunning out today. I started the day with a three mile run. Sustained my first blister from the new pair of shoes and successfully bled all over them. Yuck. After that I whipped a fruit smoothie with a few kale leaves thrown in for good measure. After showering and watching some food network I headed out to Buzz Bakery in Alexandria (one of my favorite places to hang out) and put in about 2 hours of GMAT studying. I then headed over to King Street so I could check out the Gap and Nine West outlet stores. I also took the Nikon along to practice with what I learned from the Pioneer Woman yesterday and shot the above two shoots. Again...nothing amazing. But progress. Perhaps.

After old town I headed to Target to pick up some of the apartment essentials and a random shirt I saw. Then I swung into Old Navy, found a clearance pair of summer sandals and then dashed in and out of B&N to pick up a Math practice book so I can keep plugging away with this GMAT studying.

Earlier in the day on Food Network I had seen a show about homemade falafel. For some reason this really stuck with me and on my way home I just had to stop at the store and get the ingredients to try this out. Never mind the fact it was 9:30 by the time I got home. But I did it. I used this recipe and enjoyed one of my first completely vegetarian meals that I have ever cooked. (My whole day seems to be a bit on the vegetarian side). I have to say...it was really tasty. I do need a food processor. I did the whole thing in a blender but I am thinking a new kitchen appliance is going to make it into my 415 sq. feet before I know it.

Tomorrow is a HP date with Sam and Ashley-- "Samley", perhaps dinner or lunch with them as well. And then I just have a pile of Laundry, a dirty apartment and some new GMAT studying materials to attack. This weekend is flying by. I don't like it.

Not. One. Bit.

Getting Acquainted

2011-07-15T23:29:00.002-04:00

Tonight I had a quick ADPi event and then was home earlier than I have been most of the week. This week seemed brutal for some reason. Lots of stress. To-do lists that never ended (and still never end). Topped off with a Friday of being thrown into something totally out of my comfort zone. Needless to say, my plans to just relax and enjoy my weekend with very few commitments, plans or aspirations was set forth this evening. A lovely co-worker of mine loaned me her Harry Potter: Deathly Hallows part 1 DVD which I watched to brush up on my HP in anticipation for my date with “Samley” on Sunday. (Does anyone remember combining Sean and Alli’s names? Going down memory lane over here). Back on track.

After some HP I was watching Confessions of a Shopaholic on TV and reading up on some blogs I have been behind on for awhile. I started reading the Pioneer Woman’s posts on photography and I got all into working with my Nikon and getting to know her a little bit more.

We have been together for over a month now and our relationship has been slower than I had hoped. I just haven’t had time to really get my hands on her and see how she works. The Pioneer Woman has done a great job writing about the “S” and “A” settings. So tonight just because I had some extra time I tried playing around with some random things that are in my 415 glorious sq. feet. What I came up with is no doubt amateur, but better than with just my little point and shoot. This is what we captured lately:

These were taken home from the store a few weeks back because I love them and also had an occasion to have flowers on my table for dinner.

Oh goodness did I forgot to share what came in that perfect teal box right there?? Well I will show that off later, but it makes my heart flutter just thinking about it.

This use to be the bar that all my pots and pans hung from in my Alexandria apartment. Not that I have the better hanger set-up I use this one just for the lids and other misc. kitchen things that I need at the ready when I am in there.

So there it is. A slow progression but I guarantee it is leaps and bounds from where I was when I first opened that birthday present!

Anyone else have any easy to follow photography tips, how-tos, beginners guides that they would like to share so I can become a pro photographer in no time?

It’s been a case of the 3’s

2011-07-13T00:08:00.002-04:00

Does anyone else starting counting when bad things start happening? Things seem to always come in threes (when it rains it pours).

Well the round of “3” all start the morning after the 4th of July. I woke up and needed to go move my car. I walk out to the Nanny Wagon and she has a flat tire on the rear driver’s side. Ironically I had just become aware that I no longer have a jack the day before so naturally I would get a flat. Well I didn’t have time to deal with the issue so I left the car and just walked home. After work I set out in the awful DC heat and called AAA to come put the spare on. I was quoted an hour response time. Well it was about 2 hours later. Which also resulted in over 40 mosquito bites on my legs!!
The guy changes my tire and says “you have a gash in your side wall”. Sigh.
Next step was taking the car out to a Midas (you live you learn right?) in Alexandria. They tell me it was a small little thing, fix the tire and I get an oil change. I sail out of there whistling a happy tune thinking all is fine and dandy.
Oh how optimistic of me! I had only reached problem numero uno!
Backtrack/Sidestory. A1-1-1 had gone down to IKEA with me earlier that weekend to pick up a new dresser since my $70 investment from almost three years ago finally had seen its last days. I got the dresser home, started assembling and then find that the top has a crack about 3-4 inches long and all the way through the wood (yes a REAL wood IKEA piece of furniture). We ended up putting together most of the dresser and then decided to drive down to IKEA at a later date.
Well when we decided to go to IKEA we walk out to my car and low and behold. Tire is flat. Again.
Shoot me.
I flip out. In the way that I do best which is cry, swear that the world is out to get me and try to throw in the towel on life. Luckily I was talked down from my ledge and we start forming a plan of attack to deal with what I thought was issue #2.
We drive out to a Mr. Tire in Arlington and drop the wagon off for them to look at the tire and determine if it can be repaired. At this point I have no idea if the Midas just didn’t do anything or what the deal was. So we run some errands and then venture home in the oppressive heat that we have going on here in DC.
I get a call later from Mr. Tire that the tire can not be repaired. Sigh. You. Have. Got. To. Be. Kidding.
Here is where it gets really good. I have no idea if this is issue #2 or #3 at this point. So my car is all wheel drive. Ok. So to replace one tire is has to be an exact match to the other tires. AND if you have drive more than a certain percentage (Oh say 30,000 mile in driving between Texas and then moving to the lEast Coast) then you have to replace all 4 tires. Oh goodness. In addition to the tires I am told that my front right axel joint is completely ripped open and there is zero lube left and they basically made it sound like I was going to die if I drove the car. I’magirlandidon’tknowthesethingswhichiswhyineedamaninmylife.
So I get a quote for everything needed. I decide to have them fix the axel and then I was going to go get the car and try to go to Costco and see if they have the exact matching tire.
Fast forward. Pick the car up after its axel surgery. She did very well and made a full recovery. Which is a damn good thing considering I emptied my checking account to pay for her costly operation!
At Costco some guys take a look at the tire and determine…..

they can fix it!

Amen. A stroke of luck finally.

The repair the tire, get her back on the car and we waltz out not paying a dime. Which only reaffirms my love for Costco and now my allegiance to buying tires there from this point forward. Thanks Arlington Costco tire guys….you were the best!

So far so good- the tire is looking to be holding up. The wagon has some new oil, a new axel joint, and a lot of TLC over the past few days.
Let’s just say I am done with car issues for awhile. Thankyouverymuch.
And I ate a string cheese, applesauce, raisins and a left over taco for dinner tonight. Dear Wagon, You have sucked the marrow from my financial bones. Sincerely, Your Owner.

And now it is WAY past my budgeted bedtime tonight.

Wyatt Turns Two with a Big Surprise!

2011-07-07T22:39:00.001-04:00

This is going to be a long post so bear with me here! I promise it is totally worth it since there are going to be photos of Wyatt—who we all know is the cutest kid to ever grace the planet.

The plot behind this post goes back a few months. When I was starting to think about my 25th birthday I knew I wanted to do something just for me. My nephew is born just a short bit after me and since I have missed some major milestones I figured how great it would be to celebrate his 2nd birthday with him as a gift to myself. I started talking to my parents, located a plane ticket, requested the time off and kept my sister totally in the dark. I had some great conversations with my sister for weeks on end where I would ask her about plans for Wyatt’s birthday and she kept being like “I am not doing the big production this year…yadda yadda yadda.” Luckily I learned to end conversations before I started giggling because I am horrible and lying! So this went on for weeks. My parents and I were super selective about who we told, just in the off chance word got to Nicole and would blow my surprise.

So I left on a very early Wednesday morning from Baltimore. Luckily I was so tired I actually slept most of the way from Baltimore to Denver and then was able to read from Denver to Boise. My lovely mom was there to greet me and we got to run errands together and spend some mommy and me time together. Luckily no one else realized that in the daze of getting dressed for my 4am shuttle to the airport I had put my yoga pants on inside out. HA! Good thing it wasn’t horribly noticeable!

After running a few errands to prep for our drive and stay up in Sun Valley (yes, the greatest place in the world- but please don’t go—we don’t want anyone else to know how amazing it is. It is like a secret and gift for people who live in Idaho). Wow just typing Sun Valley makes my heart tell my stubborn heart that it is time to go home. I love that place more than I can ever express. I digress.

We head home and I get to see my dad and the poodle.

Poodle:

I know. He is so cute you are jealous. Not to mention he is a love bug and probably one of the sweetest dogs. (well besides when he retracts his toenails while he is on a food mission).

After we got the car packed up we headed out of Boise to drive up to SV. We stopped for chicken fajita pitas, which sends me into a childhood memory state with each bite.

After 2.5 hours in the car with some of the most amazing scenery I have ever seen in my life, we rolled into Sun Valley. Just to put this in perspective…the sky is so full of stars up in Sun Valley it looks like someone staged it. And it was so chilly I had to wear a fleece. I was in heaven.

We devised a plan for the next morning to surprise Nicole and Wyatt.

In the morning we got up early and headed down to my sister’s house. My parents let me off a few houses away from hers and they went up and parked and went into the house. I did some ninja roles through the grass. Army crawled in front of their house and got to the front door without being seen. I called her and asked her to check the front porch since “FedEx had confirmed that they had delivered” Wyatt’s birthday present to her home. (Never mind the fact that NOTHING gets delivered to residences in Sun Valley Idaho). But luckily she fell for it.She threw open the door while she was on the phone telling me that Mom and Dad has just arrived and then BAM! there I was….standing on her front porch. There were some sorority like squeals, tears and Wyatt clapping and look confused by the commotion.

It was one of the best surprises I think I have ever pulled off! I will never forget Nicole’s face! It was worth the weeks and weeks of not being able to tell her that I was going to see her and Wyatt in just a few short weeks every time I talked to her.

We got some time with Wyatt and Nicole before work and school and then we all parted ways. My Dad treated me and my Mom to a delish breakfast at Java.

Later that afternoon we all got to play with Wyatt and see him ride his bike and go “cruisin”.

Cruisin’

Poodle checking out the back yard.

Later that night Jon fired up the BBQ for a delish dinner of pork with his Mom, my parents, Nicole, Jon and Wyatt. Wyatt got to open some birthday presents (since it was his actual birthday) and wow remind me to turn two!

Grandpa picked out a bike for him that popped a wheelie and played some awesome music that I am sure will drive mom crazy in the next few months. This may have in fact been the favorite birthday present this year!

Sheer Joy

Go bike go!

So in love.

After the initial love-at-first sight with the bike we knew the other presents had a tough act to follow. All gifts were opened with one hand on the bike and a subtle interest in whatever mom showed him had been unwrapped next.

Checking out his new book….

Which in Idaho could only be about…..

We found the bubble maker slightly interesting…

Grandma is fostering his musical side…

Nicole (mom) got him a rake, shovel and hoe set so he can help with yard work. Wyatt wanted to eat dinner using his shovel and his new truck fork. We ate a lot of “dirt” (said in a little kid deep voice)

Wyatt’s other grandma got him a great sleeping bag that he immediately grabbed a pillow and snuggled right in to get “cosy”

And what is better than a brand new kid sized sleeping bag??

Oh you guessed it…

A sleeping bag AND a bike!

Just when we didn’t think it could get any better Jon has Wyatt open a BIG truck! When Wyatt saw the size of the wheel on his new John Deere I thought his smile was going to jump off his face! He was so excited.

The truck is so big that Wyatt quickly figured out how to ride it!

After awhile Wyatt retired to bed and the adults stayed up and celebrated Wyatt’s 2nd year and my 25th!

My parents spoiled me with some amazing birthday presents. I got some great new tops and a skirt for work and then….

I opened my very own BIG GIRL CAMERA!! She is so special! I am so excited to learn how to use her and start showing you all some amazing pictures on this blog!

That was day 1 of my fabulous Idaho trip! Writing all that made me realize I have so many fun/wonderful/treasured memories from this trip! I can’t wait to tell you all more and show off some more photos of my darling nephew!

Network Keys

2011-07-07T21:46:00.000-04:00

Its been awhile since I have posted any sort of keyspiration these days. But I have hit the jackpot for form and functionality with this find.

by AMT:

"The Key to Love, Success, and All your Photos, Files and Music"

USB Keys.

Something practical combined with something I love.

Not cheap, but buy it here. Oh and get one for me...pretty please?

Still in the Box Straight from IKEA

2011-07-06T23:56:00.002-04:00

I have a theory that IKEA furniture, *most* furniture, is good for three moves. At that point for some reason those little special screws, wooden pegs and pesky turn-and-lock-devices get tired of doing their job and it becomes only a matter of time until you piece of furniture decides it is the end of its lifespan. Now to clarify—I adore IKEA. Like could work there. Live there (yes just play “house” in one of those “Look!! This is 216 sq feet and we put EVERYTHING you could possibly need in it!” displays. But we have to be realistic here. Anything that you put together with a little tool that comes in the box can’t last forever.

Well as you all saw. My trusty dresser, which has survived the following moves:
1) Shifts around the Alexandria Apartment
2)Alexandria Apartment into T Street Apartment
3) T Street Apartment to Current 415 Abode

It was also the $70 dresser. I shouldn’t be horribly surprised that when I tried to fix the collapsed drawer I showed awhile back, the whole drawer just went caput. (PS have I really been living with a collapsed drawer in my dresser for over a month!!???!! Can anyone say living the bachelorette lifestyle and loving it?) Luckily I have been hankering for a trip to IKEA. Luckily I was able to swindle A1-1-1 to go with me to go pick out a new dresser and purchase some other unnecessarybutimusthavethisorIwon’tliveacompletelifeandIwillfeeldevoidandempty items.

We settled on this:

I wanted the version that was taller and had a few more drawers but since my spacious closet is quickly growing increasingly crowded and stress-inducing we decided a looming dresser would only make it feel smaller. This one is only a few inches in each direction bigger than what I have now. The major point is that is has new drawer construction which will hopefully prohibit the same drawer problem to happen again.
I also got a bundt pan/spring form round cake pan that I can’t wait to use. I may be baking myself a cake. And then while I stady for the the GMATs end up eating it Miranda style out of the trash can in my kitchen.
This is why I am not sure why they let me have a ticket to being an adult.
Speaking of GMATs. This stuff is getting serious. I need to get my act together and take this thing before my level of stupid gets any worse! I swear! I also have the chance to take my PHR coming up very soon and I don’t think I can manage my work, ADPi volunteering, running, social/dating life with studying for not one but TWO tests.
Anyone with studying techniques when you feel like you have been out of school forever and have no idea how to retain standardize testing knowledge---let me know.
Did I mention the dresser is still in its box? Off to the side of my TV- just so I can watch TV. Still a little put off that IKEA directions indicate you need a friend to put their stuff together. It would be nice if they included that second person in the box with all the other parts in that nice little plastic bag of do-dads. Maybe this weekend we will drag out the rejected dresser and get the new one all set-up.

Staub and a Dinner Failure

2011-06-27T23:59:00.002-04:00

I recently just added a Staub cast iron grill pan to my kitchen line-up. She is a beaut! Cobalt blue, shiny, non-stick surface and heavy enough for me to seriously injure and intruder if that were to ever be and issue.

We took her for a spin tonight and besides the evident fact that my cooking skills are so below where they should be (can anyone say yucky fish for dinner?) she worked great! I currently have a flank steak going through the final stages of marination in my fridge right now which I will attempt later this week.

Honestly though…why can’t I cook? I can bake. Just about anything. But cook. No. Absolutely not. This is not just a problem for me, but think about the poor soul who marries me and finds out I can only put cupcakes, baklava, cookies, and cheesecake on the table? Pretty sure if when I go back to school I will starve to death since I won’t live in ADPi and have Sandi to cook my meals, leave “late plates”, or access to the kitchenette!

I also tend to have really negative experiences cooking fish. I just get so discouraged when I make something that gives me the yucks! It is a waste of money and then I also get all nervous about cooking again—and heave forbid I would actually cook for someone! Gasp.
How did you all learn to cook? How have you gotten over your mental blocks of “I have no idea what I am doing with this pot and pan!”

oh. Is that right? You all love to cook? I am just abnormal? oh. ok. What’s new.
But really people…my default two chicken dishes and pasta are just not going to cut it anymore.

Saturday Productivity

2011-06-25T17:14:00.002-04:00

Lately I am feeling behind on my personal life. I keep making to-do lists and seemingly never seem to cross anything off or be able to throw any of them away. I do seem to be adding goals and things I am working on to my plate and it is proving to be a challenge to keep all of them as priorities in addition to just day-to-day life as well as my professional life.

Today I completed 3 miles which was good but I haven’t been as good as I would like about going to the gym and running. Since being back from Idaho I have only made it to the gym twice. I did get a new pair of shoes which I ran in today. I had no idea how overdue I was for a pair of shoes- but my run felt completely different!

I have to say I am really thrilled that for once I have “cute” running shoes. I have always been the person who has had the “special feet”. Everything from ski boots, tennis shoes, pointe shoes, etc. I have always had to have some sort of shoe with a special feature to accommodate my less than ideal feet. This usually has resulted in owning the ugly shoes for all of my sports and activities. But I do have to say these make my feet look itty bitty and I love the lime green and teal.
I also managed to take a practice GMAT test today which I have been putting off for weeks now. Unfortunately I was hoping to do better than I did after the amount of studying I have put in so far- however it could be worse so I guess I am managing to retain some of what I study. I am hoping to get another 2-3 hours of studying in tomorrow along with a variety of other things knocked off my to-do list.

p.s. check out that quality of my new shoes picture!! Who got a big girl camera for her birthday???!!?? (This girl!!)

Happy Father's Days

2011-06-19T10:15:00.000-04:00

Here is wishing all those wonderful dads out there a wonderful and blessed Father's day! My wish goes out to my particular favorite....MY Dad!

Happy Father's Day Dad! Love you!

(You can see in the poodle's face how much he loves you too!)

Apartment SOS

2011-06-05T00:32:00.000-04:00

Ok so me and the apartment are in a little tiff at the moment. Usually I love every nook, cranny, quark, chipped tile, broken floor board in my 415 sq. feet apartment.

This weekend....

is.

just.

not.

one.

of.

those.

times.

The apartment is acting like rebellious 13 year old. Every time I turn around there is something else going wrong!

Let me count the ways that the apartment is really pissing me off right now:

1) It all started with the air conditioner. It was supposed to be moved weeks and weeks ago. It never happened. Finally, anemail somehow got the message across....or so I thought. The good: I ended up with a new air conditioner that has a remote. Ok.Great. But. It is still in the same window that is was. Something or rather about it needing its own circuit. Well...let me tell you a bit about my experience with the circuits and outlets in my apartment since they put in the new air conditioner. So in the morning like a normal person I wake up, turn on the light in the main room, walk to the bathroom, turn on bathroom light, get in the shower (oh lord the shower--i'll get to that story soon), get out of shower, walk to closet, turn on light in closet, put on clothes, walk back to bathroom, do make-up, turn on hair-dryer, dry hair.....stop. I don't dry my hair...silly me...because all my lights and air turn off now. EVERY SINGLE DAY. Now I have tried fewer lights, less charging cell phones, no computer plugged in, and I still trip a fuse every single time. Sigh.

2) Woe numero dos. The bathtub has been draining slower and slllooowweerrr and s.l.o.w.e.r. Finally after Sara left this past week it was something I couldn't avoid confronting any longer. Bring on the Drano---two rounds (I am sorry environment!). So then we tired the good ole' bent metal hanger trick. Nada. Zilch. So we walked to Target and bought a plunger (Good investment right?) And we plunged. And Plunged. And watched grime and filth come up. Thinking we were making progress..... oh how wrong I was. Instead of slowly draining the tub decides to stop draining all together. I mean we are talking still standing water here. You could have kept a goldfish alive in the tub for weeks!! I seriously was in tears on my bathroom floor tonight since maintenance was doubtfully going to come take care of this for me on a Saturday evening. So we picked up the plunger....and I worked away until my back hurt and I had successfully ruined a kitchen hand towel by stopping up my overflow drain. But then...like a hark the hearald angels singing... I heard the slurping noise and the water started moving! Amen. I have never felt so accomplished. So we now have a working tub. Phew.

3) So I get a little OCD after the tub, and decide that while I am in the bathroom I might as well deep clean. The bathroom turns into the main room, which turns into the kitchen and the closet, and the entryway. I am just putting the Shark into her resting place in the kitchen (steam mop/vac how I adore you) and I hear it.

Beep.

A few moments pass.

Beep.

Beep.

Beep.

#%$%&*!@^&#@*&!!!!

It is midnight. You have to be KIDDING me. After all that cleaning and not studying I had planned, I just wanted to curl into bed. So naturally the smoke alarm would decide to crap out tonight. Well I take my 5 ft self and perch on a kitchen table chair and take the battery out. Only that sends the alarm into full chaotic BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok fine.

I call maintenance. Luckily I think I sounded crabby enough that they sent someone out. They just left and amen...now all I hear is the jet-engine like whirl of my air conditioner that is undoubtedly going to cause my power to turn off any moment now.

This is what my Saturday night looked like:

I am so done with your right now apartment.

Threading...No not a Needle

2011-05-20T23:05:00.000-04:00

On my lunch I made a hair appointment for tomorrow (yay- finally get my bangs back!) at Frizzles in Alexandria. I had my hair cut there before Alli's wedding way back in the day and they did a great job. I usually don't make the effort to go out there but after my last lapse in judgement for a hair cut, it is time I have a good one to get it clean up for the final stretch of growing it out for Locks-Of-Love. I had intentions to get my hair trimmed, bangs re-shaped and defined, and then have my eyebrows done. Unfortunately they couldn't schedule the eyebrows with the haircut so I frantically starting looking into other option as my eyebrows have become a really unpleasant sight!

I did some yelping and googling on my lunch today and I came across a a series of really great Yelp! reviews for Dupont Threading. Ok...I had heard of threading. Never tried it. Kind of intrigued, kind of scared. But all the reviews indicated I could walk in and out within a half hour, it is less than a block away from my work, and under $20. I had to try it.

So I head over after work. Walk into the odd little basement shop was told to wait "3 minutes". It was less than that for wait. I immediately get called out for my negligent brow care practices. Warranted is all I will say. (Think Bert of Bert and Ernie here--just not a uni brow) So she sets to work. I would rate it a 4 on the pain scale. She of course asks if this was my first time having my brows threading. Um yes. That is why I am CRYING. Not crying like "oh wow I want to die" but like "oh wow that is my sinus passage".

In then end. 100% worth it. Brows look amazing, it was fast, I wasn't all puffy and no odd waxy chemicals or other stuff on my face. Success. Hot brows thank you very much.

Rollercoaster

2011-05-18T21:42:00.000-04:00

of emotions.....

Today was just an up and down of good/bad/ugly/crap/frustration/excitement/anger/happy/man/etc/etc/etc.. I left work to go to Jazzercise which was really good to work out some of frustration. However, then my night just ended in a grand finale of "this sucks".

Ugh.

#running

2011-05-17T22:38:00.000-04:00

So I am no where near being able to classify myself as a "runner" but I yet again beat my last "best" run again tonight. Granted I am still frustrated beyond belief that I have not shed a single teensy weensy pound but I set out to run 5K and that is what I am trying to focus on. Hopefully somewhere along the line the pounds will start to go somewhere besides my hips. But we are making progress! That 5K finish line is getting closer and closer which is fantastic! AND this is the week where Erin and can check off that we completed 8 solid weeks of butt kicking Jazzercise. Annnnddd we have made a pact to pick it up again with a brief hiatus (as in we will be back in business in June--NO EXCUSES!)

I think I may be in need of some new shoes. It has been awhile since I replaced my shoes and I am starting to get to the point where running in worn out shoes will be bad news bears for this girls back, hips and old lady rejected dancer body. Put that on the list of "things I am saving for".

So I was thinking about really got my butt in gear with this "let's get in shape!" thing. Granted I knew I had let the Cheetos and cupcakes take an unhealthy place in my life and I was ready to get back to the body I enjoyed. But really did it was seeing Rachel over at Running Backwards in High Heels. Not only does she have on of those lives that I read about and think "wow... you are an awesome mom", but she posted the photo that really motivated me to take this all on. She posted this. I mean look at that skinny minnie! She is gorgeous! So I run. And run. and run. and jazzercise. And think twice about that pink of Cabernet blackberry sorbet I have in the freezer. And hopefully....someday....I will be a skinnie minnie. Someday.

Continued Wishes

2011-05-16T08:00:00.002-04:00

In honor of seeing TMP this weekend (it was so exceptional as always! Trey continues to just produce incredible choreography that is so honest and beautiful) I think I would enjoy this:

7) TMP Hoodie

8) A camera...no idea which one but I am sure Idaho Camera can come to the rescue. All I know is I want a big fancy one. You know...the kinds that take amazing photos. You know something that looks like this:

9) A Wonderbar. Mine ran out and I sadly just not feeling like I have the extra cash to get a new one. It does wonders for my skin and it is hands down the best skin care investment I have EVER made.

Since it is bedtime I will dream up some more and get back to you all. After all it is my 25th (eek...still not sure how I feel about that!) so I feel like I can entertain my wildest wishes.

My Life Has Been Changed

2011-05-15T23:34:00.000-04:00

Sunday. Almost Monday. Sigh.

This weekend went by in the blink of an eye. I could use like 4 solid weekends in a row. There just isn't enough time to do everything! I have a growing personal to-do list and I seem to just barely check enough things off to maintain. I did manage to get some deep cleaning done around the apartment (saramarie- I can safely say the bathroom will look spectacular for your visit and Erica I will have the kitchen under control for us to whip up some cooking mastery!) yesterday. Today I didn't get nearly as much as I needed done but I did manage to make it to Trader Joe's to do a much needed food stock-up. While I was stocking up on some frozen food I came across these:

They are frozen, pre-measured, pre-chopped/prepared garlic, basil and cilantro!

Is anyone else just blown away by this? I can not tell you how many clumps of herbs I throw away because you buy it for one recipe and then the rest of it just sits in your fridge wilting away until it finally gets tossed in my bi-weekly fridge clean-outs. These are such a great idea! I am very excited to not throw away money on these herbs anymore!

This is the rest of the haul from TJ's today. It doesn't look like a ton, but there are three major portions of meat in there, a couple frozen meals, nuts, three bottles of wine (one was like $3.50), rolls, veggies, and oatmeal. I considered it a success and hopefully will keep me from buying a lot of lunches and taking any trips to the grocery for awhile.

We also encountered some awesome performers today in Old Town. Behold:

These guys took me back to my days of playing the fiddle. It may be time to bring the violin to DC so I can brush up on my skills. Andrew and I came up with the plan for me to fiddle my way through Italy. It should be great.

On a side note. Happy 160th Founders Day to all my ADPi's out there! I wish I had been in Seattle today to celebrate the day with everyone but I have plans to wear my pin to work tomorrow to show off some of my ADPi pride!
Hope you all had a great weekend!

Birthday Wishes

2011-05-11T21:29:00.000-04:00

So we are way under the 25 days until my 25th (eep!) birthday!! That means....I can create my yearly unrealistic birthday wish list! (and maybe some realistic things thrown in there just because).

1) Diamonds by the Yard

I love anything simple and classic for jewelry. I love these simple floating diamonds- I could easily switch up with my usual pearls.

2) Medium North South Sac- Dooney & Bourke

This bag is so classic to me. I love the black, Cognac and Lime Green. I love how it is professional, but not too workish. Timeless, standard, versatile.

3) 4 Settings of Kate Spade New York "Market Street" China

I would treasure this forever and could see myself entertaining my girlfriends for Sunday brunches and cups of tea.

4) Tiffany Key

Enough said.

5) How about some extravagant Book Ends?

6) While we are on Poodles....

That's what I have for tonight....

Let me sleep and dream of other extravagance

Running Progress

2011-05-07T14:01:00.000-04:00

Today was the first day I finally felt like I made some progress with my new running regime. It wasn't anything to brag or write home about I am sure from a true runners perspective but it was the longest stretch I have run without stopping to walk which felt great! I am hoping this is the start of a break through where I can really start to increase my time and distance.

I will say on the discouraging side. I have not lost a single pound! Not one! Which seems almost impossible since all my clothes have started to look better and fit a little loser, but really not a single pound! What gives!!?!? I know you are not supposed to depend on the scale but it is hard to ignore it and keep a positive attitude about all my focus on getting fit. Between Jazzercise, running and counting calories you would think some pounds should be coming off right?

As of yesterday there were 25 days until my 25th birthday, (eep! I'm old). But I am going to take these next 24 days to really push myself so I can celebrate my quarter of a century feeling really great about my body and self.

Well off to the park to do some GMAT studying in the perfect spring weather!

Happy Saturday!

The Wedding Of the Century

2011-04-29T04:40:00.002-04:00

I am up! Snuggled on the couch, switching between every channels various footage of the Royal Wedding!! I can hardly wait for the dress to be revealed!

I can't believe today is here!!!

Couch to SomethingK

2011-04-28T06:46:00.000-04:00

So I have kindorsortof taken up running. Or rather am attempting to take up running. Everything I have read about this venture is to start slow. Now I used to be in really good shape. Like really really really good shape. 5 nights a week of dancing followed up with gym work outs and the throw in some skiing for good measure. But I have never been a runner so this is a whole knew adventure for me and my very out of shape body. Luckily Jazzercise has helped me through that initial shock phase that I think happens when you go from couch surfing to the gym, but I still have a long ways to go before I am a "runner". Baby steps right?

I am shooting for 2-3 days at the gym while I still have Jazzercise classes and then when those are over we will up gym visits to 3-4 (1 hour visits). Luckily my new found work/life balance with the new job actually allows for this and I think it is realistic. I have also really lucked out and my apartment building has the perfect "home" gym with a few ellipticals, a treadmil, bike, weights and room to do stretches and free weights. Much more enjoyable then going to the grimy Bally that I used to belong to! I am not sure what my running goals are per se. Right now I am shoot to run 5K but I am not going to put a time limit on it, I just want to run it at some point.

I am hitting a wall with my music selection. I am operating with some very outdated music and I really need to put together a few really good mixes that will keep me energized and pushing forward with my running regimen. Anyone have any workout music suggestions for me?

Life Sights

2011-04-27T05:06:00.002-04:00

I saw this guy the other day when I was walking home from Jazzercise.

That dog has to be at least 120 pounds and he was seriously over half way out the window! I started to walk away after a did a double take but I back tracked to creepily take a picture because I knew it was just too good to walk away from.

On an unrelated note I was trying to get my closet under control. (It really is amazing how messy I can make that small little room--I am debating showing you all a picture but I am going to decide against it so there can be no hating on me). Anyways, I m going through my middle dresser drawer to see if there is anything I can part with and to fold my plethora of T-shirts that after months just get tossed around and jumbled. But I pull out ALL the clothes in the drawer, get to the bottom, and discover this appalling sight:

Yes that is the bottom of the drawer that has collapsed. This is just a documented proof that IKEA furniture (especially the really really cheap stuff) has a total of three moves in it before it just loses its ability to function.

So now we are on the hunt for a new (but very affordable dresser) or a role of duct tape to put this baby back together. (Right now I am leaning towards the role of duct tape!).

Royal Wedding Jitters

2011-04-26T04:00:00.001-04:00

I have joined all the other women across the world who are obsessed with the upcoming nuptials of Wils and Kate. I love a good wedding. But oh goodness...give me a royal one and I lust with interest. While I am counting down the days, I am checking out some of the memorabilia.

Who wouldn't want a Catherine Engagement Doll? I want one!

Pez dispensers

Kiss me Kate Beer:

I actually really really really want the stamps if I can get my hands on them:

Has anyone else found anything just fabulous for the royal wedding??

2011-04-26T02:09:00.003-04:00

I feel like a write a lot of these posts. And maybe that is a sign. But yesterday was anything but the great Easter I had in mind or remembered as a child. Yes, I know there is a time that the little fledgling needs to fly out of the nest, build their own life and start their own traditions and holiday memories. Sometimes I do this well. I have survived 4 Thanksgivings without my family. Fourth of July I have done just fine. And then BAM---Easter...out of nowhere has me crying big crocodile tears and hiccuping with snot flying all over (too graphic maybe?). I'm not sure what set me off this year. Easter growing up was nothing short of magical like all holidays in my house. My sister and I were just talking last night about how we would wake up to huge Easter baskets set out on the table. Giant stuffed animals (ask me about the bunny that pretty much made my childhood) and Easter dresses with bow socks. That puts some pretty high expectations on a holiday!

Part of me feels like I am ground to nothing with my life here in DC. I have such a strong pull to pack my bags and just head back so I am not missing out on family moments and memories. And then the stubborn streak in me (hard to imagine huh?) tells me to stay--to stick it through.

I'm running out of steam here. And I have no idea what the next part/chapter/section/move of my life is supposed to be. I don't feel like I even have a clue. And maybe that is beauty of yesterday. Here I am wondering, looking around me for the answers to these huge parts of my life and the reality is that I need to trust in Him.

A (Hank)ering

2011-04-25T22:01:00.000-04:00

Em and I took a after work splurge and went to one of my favorite DC spots: Hank's Oyster Bar. Our service was sadly some of the worst I have EVER had at a restaurant and I hope that I never get the serve we had. We felt horribly unwelcome and like we were ruining the guys night. Ummm...last time I checked, you were the one who signed up to be a waiter buddy. And while we were ordering oysters in small batches and some sides we had a decent amount of wine....so buddy....news flash....our bill was worth your time. And oh yea...you won't get great tips being a jerk. Just saying...mk?

Anyways now that I am done with my rant. (Hank's I hope you never ever ever ever do that to me again).

But without fail the oysters were amazing. I am already starting to drool just thinking about them. Take a look at some of our succulent delights.

I Was Getting On The Bus...And I Saw Her

2011-04-19T23:23:00.000-04:00

Isn't she spectacular? And my favorite colors. Sigh. Granted I have been looking for a new bag. But not a bag that would cost my liver to obtain!! (Then again maybe I can give up happy hours for the bag? Just kidding. sort of.)

Gush. Relish. Bask.

2011-04-13T23:14:00.001-04:00

So this twitter, tweet, bleep, burp, whateveriammostrecentlyaddictedtointhesocialmedia world....is amazing.

So you all know this guy:

image:via wikipedia and can we say....SO Yum!

Or you should. Or I won't be friends with you anymore. Anyways---he is adorable. His wife--lucky lucky lucky. And they have a new baby. And he got emotional when he won. Basically--I adore.

ANYWAYS. I tweet, he tweets, we all tweet. And he mentioned catching up with his sister. So me...I check out his sister's twitter. AND she is an HR person!!!!! O.M.G. . I tweet at her or whatever it is called.

She tweets back.

I feel special.

Yes I nerd out on HR. Yes I adore RB. And now....I adore his sister.

Check it:

And to be fair- Lori made my day.

My Future Dentist

2011-04-12T06:35:00.002-04:00

My other visitor from this month was another E. As some of you remember (yea way way way back when I actually used to blog) E lived in DC this past summer to do an internship on the hill. It was a great opportunity for us to re-connect and catch up as we have were pretty much raised together. I love how we can see each other and it is like no time has passed at all. E was in town this time for a dental lobbying event and it was really great to meet a fellow dental student of hers. She told me all about what she is working on it school and I guarantee she is going to be a fantastic dentist!

We had some great time together catching up, eating some great food, and seeing some wonderful things. A highlight for me was getting to go inside one of the amazing historic homes in Alexandria as she has a relative who lives in one of them. It was spectacular and beautiful. It smelled old and important. I swear. That same day we got invited to an impromptu dinner party hosted by Ben and it was a blast! Ben can do some amazing work in his crock pot!

We did get to do some DC touristy stuff:

E's friend who was with us had some good restaurant taste and wanted to eat at Zatinya, that I had only had drinks at before. We had a great meal which included grape leaves, goat (yes as in the animal that goes aghhhhhh).

I was sad to see E leave as well. I just don't do well with goodbyes these days. But I also love that she is living in one of the best cities on the Best Coast, so I know I will likely see her soon. Love that lady!

A Burrito and An Eggroll

2011-04-11T06:02:00.000-04:00

So this past month has been packed with visitors (ok not packed but considering I keep a fairly small social circle--to have TWO visitors in one month is pretty "packed" for me).

Erica--who writes an amazing blog btw. Check her out. just left on Sunday (yes I cried as per usual when friends depart). We had a couple wonderful days together just chatting, getting caught up on each others lives, cooking some amazing food, eating some tasty brunch, and snuggling in bed since I am cover stealer.

I probably appreciate more at this point in my life more than ever the simple joy of sipping coffee with a girlfriend and just chatting. I knew I had it great growing up with a great group of friends and then in college meeting an otustanding group of women who I know will be entwined in my life more than I think even I will ever be able to full comprehend. But you take it for granted...until you don't have it anymore. Yes, all my girls are just a phone call, skype, text, email away...but that simple delight of just grabbing coffee, lunch, making dinner, drinking a whole bottle of wine is something that just isn't at my fingertips like it was in college living here in DC. I do have some amazing girlfriend here in DC, but my DC lends to a lot of work, and sometimes not as much personal stuff as I would like. Anyways. You get the point. Having Erica here was amazing and I miss her a lot already. And I am also so glad she is safe and doing what she needs to be doing for her right now.

Some highlights from the trip include this amazing dinner we just kind of whipped up on the fly. I had the fixins to make this pasta sauce that was handed to me by AlliBear's mom awhile back, and then Erica got me this great little cookbook that comes from a moment in NYC to have accessible fresh produce. From that we made a roasted veggie salad served over spinach with a garlic vinaigrette sauce (yes we made that--i know right!!?)

We also had a great series of photos that spawned from this conversation:

A: Ugh I am so bad about taking photos! We don't have a single picture of us together from your time here.
E: *shrugs*
A: Well I have my little camera
E: I'm asian I rock at taking the self portraits with the extended arm.

(Or something like that)

Which resulted in this:

This one jusdt didn't do it for me.

So then we took this gem. Yes you can see up my nose.

We were drinking coffee and I look like I had a gallon of wine.

Excited Erica.

Ok maybe there was something in the coffee?

Getting there

My "excited eyes"

In the end. Not bad.

So special.

We did enjoy a wonderful brunch at Belga Cafe which has been on my list of places to dine at for awhile now. I will 100% be going back as I didn't want to order six menu items--but they sounded so good!

I was so glad to see Erica and I selfishly hope she moves somewhere close so I can see more of her! But for now, I just savor the days I get to spend with my friends!

This is how I Blog Best

2011-04-11T00:11:00.000-04:00

I have lacked the energy, time and motivation to update this thing. Which I really should be better about. 1) I read other people's blog and I love reading the accounts of their lives. 2) I love to go back through my blogs and re-read about my life. Tonight I turned off the TV (ok so maybe TiVo is to blame?) and started typing. sure enough--I was able to do it. Just like riding a bike huh?

But I do best with some of the staples above.

Water. Trying to get my daily intake in!
Snack--peanuts tonight's
Wine. Enough said.
Not pictured--a good Pandora station.

Updating the blog is like doing a HUGE pile of laundry. I know I need to---and I know I want to so I can wear those clothes again--and when it is done I feel great. It is just the committing to it. Turning off the TiVo or the netflix and opening up the laptop. This is where Brooke is getting some major snaps right now. This month she is going to try to blog EVERY DAY!. Now that is some serious inspiration for me!

Update

2011-04-10T22:55:00.000-04:00

Can anyone believe I have been at my new job for over a month now? Really? Where has time gone?!? Obviously I can say that the new job is going very well and I am settling in nicely to the new role, new environment and new co-workers. (I still get a little misty eyed thinking about my old co-workers) But overall I know I made the right decision and I am very happy with where things are going.

I suddenly just lost blogging steam ( I have been horrible at exercising my blogging creativity for awhile now!) so we are going to switch to some bullets.

I am loving my window. I had no idea that some rays of sunshine could really lift my mood like they do!
My work schedule is different. I think I am much more in a morning routine and the "evening" routine is yet to be figured out, but I have been getting home earlier, squeezing in some jazzercise with Erin and managing to walk home a lot more to save some money and burn some extra calories.
I am finding out just how shy I can feel and be! I know it always takes me a little why to open up to people and be my outgoing self to get to know them. Basically I need to get on this ASAP since everyone is super nice...I am just super shy. Shocking huh?
What lady now has an iPhone and a super cute KS polka dot case? That's right...this one! I exercised some self control for a few days and then today....it all went out the window.
My wardrobe does not quite meet expectations right now. While I am holding my own with what is on hand I never really took note of how casual and youthful my wardrobe actually was. This weekend we purchased a new all purpose black dress, a black and white tailored skirt, black flats, and nice jeans for "casual" Friday. I still have a lot of work to do to getting me looking like the part but we are making progress.
I think the one thing I can say I really enjoy at this point is that each day I am constantly reminded of people's gratitude and how I am really an integral part of the group and my position has real meaning.

Hopefully things will keep moving along in this positive direction because I am really excited for what the future holds in this new position.

Hair Woes

2011-03-22T07:32:00.002-04:00

For some reason winter in DC just massacres my hair and skin. Naturally dry skin just requires lots of lotion. But my poor hair! I am growing it out again to donate it to Locks of Love (this will be my 4th time!) and I am trying to just keep the dead ends off when I go get a hair cut. Needless to say my hair isn't in the best style right now. I have been using a straightener to curl my hair maybe once or twice a week and then the rest of the time I just blow dry my hair with a round brush and call it a day. For some reason the dry weather has cause my hair to just fall apart this year! It has never been this bad! My hair just feels brittle and yuck! It lacks that pretty luster that is used to have-especially when it got long like this. So here is my question for all you in the blog world. Has anyone used this:

drugstore.com

Or do any of you have any tips/trick/products that you use to combat brittle hair?

Cone Dog

2011-03-21T22:47:00.000-04:00

My poor puppy dog Theo had to have some surgery awhile back. The poor guy gets tumors and he had a few growing on his head and eye lids that we had to have taken off. I haven't talked to my parents but hopefully him (and my mom!) are on the mend! My dad sent me a photo of the dog in his cone and looking like someone beat him up!

Poor Theo! I love you little guy!

He looks so sad it makes my heart ache!

Jazzercise- Take One

2011-03-21T22:31:00.000-04:00

That is me in the back right and Erin to the left of me.

Or not.

In fact their were not any leotarts, scruniches, leg warmers or headbands. Rather dissapointing.

Regardless the lack of 80's attire the class was awesome.

A little background on this:

Erin found a Tippr for 2 months of unlimited Jazzercise classes at a location near both of our offices. After a little prodding she convinced me it would an awesome idea. She did a great job reaching out to the instructor and finding out about the class and then tonight we took our first plunge into Jazzercize. I can say- I laughed. I really didn't know what to expect. It was anything but a cheesy 80's music video. It was awesome. Great music, and I can tell you it is a workout! I am so excited for the next two months. We are going to try to go twice a week, and for sure once a week. I'll keep you all posted on our progress!

Large and in Charge

2011-03-16T04:25:00.000-04:00

I thought Theo was big! Get this:

He is a Red Tibet Mastiff. Name: Hong Dong or Big Splash. Not even a year old he is already 3 feet high, and 180 lbs! He is a moose. I kind of want him. Look at that face. He also sold for almost for a lot of money!

The View

2011-03-15T21:40:00.000-04:00

Crisp and White

2011-03-14T05:15:00.000-04:00

So as I am sure I may have mentioned my sister, Nicole, is engaged. (Good excuse to indulge my love for weedings huh?) I was lucky enough to get to see her try on dresses once but we didn't say "yes to the dress". As I was browsing theknot.com I found this gorgeous dress that I really can see her in. It is Alita Graham by Kleinfeld:

I love the simplicity of this dress. All the elegance and beauty is in the fold and texture of the fabric. Stunning and simple.

First Day

2011-03-13T22:56:00.000-04:00

It seems that "first days" don't disappear, become any less frequent, or become any less nerve wracking or stressful as you grow up. My first day at the new job is tomorrow and I am so nervous! I feel exactly like it is the night before my first day of high school, or the night before I packed all my stuff in my parents car and drove across WA state to go to college. I'm nervous. And I am totally having the "I hope they like me" thoughts. As well as the "who do I eat lunch with?", "Will I be in the cool kids club?". I had planned to already be in bed, but I can't sleep. Gulp. Wish me luck!

Via sillydad.com

4 months

2011-03-13T13:46:00.000-04:00

I have been in my apartment for almost 4 months now and it has been so much fun to transform a blank slate into my own space that is all sweet sweet mine. I am in the home stretch of putting the final details into place but the general framework is finally all completed in the apartment. I will need to get another picture of the whole space. But can you believe this is what I moved into?

Budgeting Tips and Tricks

2011-03-13T06:02:00.003-04:00

It's not that I don't have a budget (relax mom and dad!), its just been pretty loose and I have lacked the effort to really see where my money is going. Granted I have a good idea *cough* rent *cough* *Cough* eating out too much *cough*, but I think it is time to really start scrutinizing my finances so I can make a better attack at some financial goals I have.

I have heard people raving about Mint.com to track where and how they are spending their money. What are other people's methods for tracking spending?

I also need to take up a love for cooking. I love to bake, I just can't get that excited, and I am rather intimated by cooking. It just seems to free-form. I like a recipe. I like to know exactly what ingredients to put in. Cooking isn't like that. But if I could cook more at home I know I could really cut back my budget by having left-overs for lunch, and not having to spend extra for a tip and overpriced drinks.

What are your tips and tricks for saving and being budget savvy?

Felted with Love

2011-03-12T06:00:00.001-05:00

It all started when:

My sister made this amazing pillow for me--I love it so much!

It is made entirely out of felt! Which got me really attracted to other craft ideas you could create with felt. I found some wreaths that used the same technique that Nicole used to make this lovely delight. This is what I created for a little Valentine's Day decor:

(excuse my very ugly mauve painted door. Trust me, if i could change that, I would!)

The process went something like this:

I cut 1/2 inch strips and used a hot glue gun to wrap and cover a Styrofoam wreath form I got from Michael's with a 40% off coupon. (Felt is fairly cheap as well- like 10 cents or so a sheet).

Get your wreath covered. Worry more about the sides rather than the top since that gets covered up. Also, if you can find a rounded edge circle wreath, go with that. This squared off one was not ideal.

Cut out a LOT of these 1-1.5 inch felt circles. I used one of my small drinking glasses as a circle template. I think I cut out around 300 of them. But it depends on how tight you want your felt "buds" to look. I liked the more bunched together look.

Fold your circle in half, twice. Then spear the end with a straight pin and then place into the top of the wreath form. Work your way around the form and Voila! Add a ribbon and hang your masterpiece. What I love about using red is I can change out the bow for Christmas and use this two times a year. A white one would be even more versatile and you could just switch out the ribbon year round to reflect the holiday.

I Went to the Zoo Zoo Zoo, How about You You You?

2011-03-11T16:13:00.000-05:00

Super Bowl Sunday. Yes, forever ago. I know. I obviously have been experiencing some writers block, or just sheer lack of motivation to write here. Which is bad bad bad. Back to the story. Super Bowl Sunday started to shape up as a day where I had zero invites, so to keep myself from sinking into "omgiwishedilivedinseattledbecausemysociallifestillreallyreallysucksincomparisonhereandigetsoupsetaboutit" mode I decided to go to the zoo and see if I could get a glimpse of the new lion cubs that were born not too long ago. I sadly missed the lion cubs BUT I did get some other great animal sightings. To start I got to see these little guys:

Sadly these 6 little guys, who are brothers, won't be at the DC zoo much longer. The zoo is trading them for a set of breeding ones, since obviously these ones can't produce offspring. I showed up just when it was feeding time and they were all perched on those rocks, trying not to fall into the ditch separating them from the fence. The were squeaking like it was their job. A zoo keeper showed up with little fish to feed them and she shared that the six brothers are called the "six pack" and are all named after a beer. I don't remember them all but there was Bud, Miller, and Dos who has cataracts.

They were so stinking cute! They would kind of clap their paws together and stand up on their back legs to beg for more fish. I loved it!

I also got to see the tiger and lion who are always asleep in their den when I go to the zoo, so it was a treat to see them out and about.

Did I mention that the weather was awesome? I was in a light fleece and actually had to take it off and carry it because it was so warm and sunny! Also for all you people who don't live here-- to make you a bit jealous (which is hard if you live in Seattle or Idaho), the zoo is F-R-E-E. Yup, all the time. Unreal huh?

Ch-ch-ch-changes

2011-03-11T14:08:00.000-05:00

This has been a blog I have been anxiously/nervously/eagerly/regretfully/sadly/enthusiastically/amazingly/andeveryotheremotionyoucanpossiblyimagine
waiting to write.

After a lot of thought (and tears) I have made the decision to move on to a different organization and leave my current job.

I am still in shock when I write that or tell people.

My job has been such a big part of my life for the past two and half years. I can easily say that without my job there is no way I would have survived the transition to the East Coast. Through it I have met some wonderful friends that I know will extend into my life far past this short time that I worked with them. I feel that I invested a lot in the position- received my first promotion and also learned the ropes of a "real job".
But change is inevitable and it was time to make a change that was best for me. I had someone describe that my grief and sadness with leaving my job is much like breaking up with your first love. You know deep down it probably isn't going to work out. But first love is blind and innocent, and you almost think it can do no wrong. So there has been some realities, and with finding a job that I think I can grow in and learn a lot from- I knew it was finally time to say goodbye to my first work-love.

I am still working in a somewhat HR related role- but focusing on some different areas and getting rid of some of the aspects I did not enjoy previously. I pray it will be a good fit. I start Monday and I am nervous like a little kid on the first day of school. It is strange to know you will have to re-learn and re-train on so much. And I sit and think "I hope they like me"- just like when I was 12 years old. Some emotions and fears just never change.

I will leave it at that. I am scared/excited/nervous/anxious and just clinging to the truth that I nothing in my life has led me anywhere that has turned out horribly. Granted I have had my fair share of 'backpeddling' moments, but overall I have been provided for and very blessed, and I am sure this change and decision will fall into that category as well.

Thank you to everyone who helped me through the decision, the process and the emotions. I owe you all for your constant support and patience with my indecisive nature. You are all the best people I could ever ask for in my life.

The Key to Your Seat

2011-03-03T23:15:00.000-05:00

I was trying to do some major catch up on StyleMePretty the other day and I came across this awesome idea for directing guests to their seats at a wedding:

The rustic tags and ribbon are not really my style but I adore this idea. Check out the entire wedding here.

KateSpadification Complete

2011-02-17T00:26:00.000-05:00

It.

Is.

Done.

The long awaited, much anticipated, fabulous stripes are done. And I. Love. It.

I was skeptical if I was ever going to get the stripes to look how I envisioned them in my head. As a joke I had to start referring to my paint colors and deisgn scheme as a Kate Spade bag. I have to say...she defintely has provided some inspiration. I now feel like I am living in a Kate Spade bag. I could not be happier. I think this is one of those moments where I am in full reign of the design scheme of my glorious 415 sq. ft. apartment because it is mine. All sweet sweet mine. So if I want grey strips and to KateSpadifiy my apartment...well then I can do that.

This process required a lot patience. A lot of moral support (to not flip out and start just throwing paint against the wall). And much needed advice and best practices from friends and other DIYers.

It also required a lot of blue painters tape:

So without any further ado...

I present....

My masterpiece:

Yes my apartment is an utter disaster at the point now. I guess that is the price I pay for progress? Well some things are going to have to be put in place as I have a very special guest coming to visit this weekend. None other than Miss SaraMarie!! (eep!) [Insert giddy excitement and uncontrolable bouncing here]. Can. Not. Wait. For. Friday.

But back to the KateSpadifaction. There are a few piece of furniture that need to be put together. (Hey IKEA maybe you should sell that stupid friend you show in your instruction manuals!) And then we are pretty much ready for final details- side tables, artwork, lamps, maybe a rug if we find one that suits my fancy.

I am thrilled the wall is done. I feel incredibly accomplished and proud with the results. Hope it was exciting for you all to finally see what I have been consuming myself with since I moved into this place!

No Words are Needed.

2011-02-16T00:46:00.000-05:00

That's All.

The Keys To Potential

2011-02-08T06:17:00.000-05:00

I love getting up on the weekend and snuggling up with a cup of coffee or tea. I also really like the idea of having a mismatched coffee mugs. I just am not sure I see the fun, or point, of having a matching set of coffee mugs. So I pick up mugs along my way that I like. So far a few of my favorites are:

A wizard of Oz mug my mom bought me when we were driving through Kansas together on the way back from my Texas adventure one summer.
A big pink Starbucks mug that was on sale after valentine's day. Sadly it had this cute ceramic heart on a ribbon that was tied to the handle and it somehow disappeared.
Kendal brought me great mug from San Francisco and it resides at my office so I can have a reusable mug to stay green.

But I think this one would be a great additional to my started collection:

found @ Stylehive.com

Making Progress

2011-02-07T23:26:00.000-05:00

For about 3 loooooong months I have had this crazy idea to paint grey/white horizontal stripes on the wall adjacent to the purple wall that was painted a few long months ago. Originally the wall was going to be painted all grey but Kate Spade somehow put the idea in my head with all her polka dots and stripes to do something a little bit more visually intriguing.

So measuring and tape take 1 was an epic failure. We did one stripe and realized I was in way way way over my head.

This prompted the purchase of a laser level.

Cue measure and taping take 2.

Fail.

Ruler, pencil and more tape. Cue take 3.

Wavy line fail.

So here we are....measuring and taping take 4.

I think we finally got it straight (ha!) this time!

Naturally after 4 major attempts to tape 9 line segments 4 times the tape ran out tonight, but we did make some great progress. I think I can safely say that I am almost 1/2 done with this epic painting job.

Some pictures of my progress tonight.

Look at those straight tape lines! Woo! Hopefully tomorrow I can pick up some more tape, finish taping the edges and then get that first coat of grey on the walls. (I better get to it as I have a 2/14 deadline to finish this sucker up!) I also made one of last big trips to IKEA (thank goodness! I am so not in a place to spend any more money!) but this is what was purchased:

Can't wait to show you all when it is all put together! Getting close to finally getting this apartment put together!

Holiday Party 2010 and Frankenfoot

2011-01-28T10:00:00.001-05:00

So think way way way back when I was lusting after this.

The day started off with the typical ritual of:
IamasororitygirlandItakethewholedaytoprepbuffpluckmoisuturizeandpolish
every square inch of my body before big social events that involve a fancy pants dress.

Oddly I really dislike having my toenails painted but I figured since I was wear peeptoe gold pumps I better have some well done toes. So we buff, scrape, lotion, paint, etc etc etc my feet to shiny red perfection.

Next was hair that ended up in a big curly side pony adorned with some art deco clips. Strands of pearls and gold beads, matching earrings, topped with the fantastic dress. I was ready to get my drink and party on for 2010 with the company.

All was fun and games for the first couple hours. I got to see many of my coworkers from other locations that I adore but never get to see. I felt like a sore thumb in the room full of black cocktail dresses, but that's how I roll right?

So the night ventures on. I'm rocking on the dance floor with my stellar dance moves that you all know and adore from my many many years of ballet. Sarcasm is not translating well here.

We are dancing. We feel some pain my foot. By now the 4 inch gold pumps had been tossed under a chair for the evening.

Coworker: "Uhhhh, you're bleeding"

Understatement.

I am gushing. Spurting. Dripping blood. Ev-er-y-Wh-ere.

Hobble to bathroom.

Reach down. Feel glass shard stuck into the top (yes I said top) of my foot. ?!?!!?!!?!

Pull shard out. Grab paper towels and try to control the waterfall out of my foot.

Hotel staff comes in and tells me if I go outside the women's bathroom they can help me with a first aid kit. Luckily I very sweet coworker found me and sat with me while we painfully brushed alcohol pads over the wound and attempted to seal it up with band aids.

After many tears she helps me back into the ballroom and I sit until I can start feeling the blood again. Oh lord.

The tears start.

Good friend Sam comes over and after much resistance convinces me to go to the ER. Stitches.

Rockin on the dance floor with a WestCoastIsBestCoaster

Typical me.

Right before it happens.

After a short cab ride the three jovial individuals above end up at the George Washington Hospital ER.

Thank you Sam for documenting the evening's events. You all really should see the stream of photos on my camera. Dance dance dance dance goofy photo dance dance dance dance goofy photo dance dance ER.

My doctor was very nice. Determined we should do some stitches as the cut was deep but not very large. Due to some much needed distractions she was able to numb up my foot and stitch me up with my throwing up or passing out once. It was quite the success for me.

While we were getting stitched up we also witnessed the most disheartening display of police officers I can ever imagine. While waiting for a mangled guy they brought in they were arguing over who got to check in on their iPhone to be the "Mayor" of the hospital. I. Kid. You. Not. DCPD. Wow.

Getting discharge papers took forever. And all I was given for pain was a few advil (smart but not pleasant). My foot was all bandaged and all I had with me for footwear were the 4 inch pumps.

Oh.

No.

They gave my hospital socks.

It is p-o-u-r-i-n-g rain at this point (2amish)

I get myself to bed, gimpy foot at all and awake to think that I must have dreamed this disaster of an event.

Oh no. It was real.

And thus....

FRANKENFOOT!!!

Thank you Erin for the term

So after a few days more of work, ADPi events and early gift exchanging I flew home to Idahome. A few days later and my mom went with me to our family practitioner to have him remove the stitches. It wasn't bad. Not pleasant, but not bad.And afterwards he gave me a lollipop like old times.

So cue ending credits right?

Wrong.

One trip to the emergency doctor. 10 days of antibiotics.

Nope not done yet.

Apple corer....slices off who top of my finger tip.

Now we are done with ER and doctor visits and let's hope it stays that way for a long long time!

Steam Cleanin Dreamin

2011-01-28T06:08:00.001-05:00

For Christmas I was one lucky lucky daughter as my parents helped me out with buying a microwave and then gave me some money to also purchase some sort of device to clean my creaky hardwood floors that I so diligently searched for during my apartment search. I did some research over the past few months and after some debate I took the risk and purchased the Shark Vac-then-Steam mop.

So you are asking yourself "Well...Do you like it?" Ahem. Please pay very close attention as I write this....

This is hands down the best thing I have purchased for the apartment yet. It is amazing! I steam mop for fun. Yes I said I do it for FUN.

Ok first off. Manage some expectations here. The "vac" part of this product is like a bigger more powerful hand-vac. This in no way means that it is as powerful as a real vaccuum. But if you have hard wood floors and you need to pick up those dust balls and kitchen deprise that tends to come out of nowhere! this thing will get the job done. The "steam" part is where it gets fun. You put on the magnetic tray that you hook your steam "mop" too, flip the switch and you start hearing the water go to work. It dries almost instantly. You can see the dirt on the mop and your floors get all shiny and beautiful.

Hands down this gets my goldstarstampandreaisawesomeandsaysthisistoo endorsement. Buy one. Do it.

MSW Inspiration

2011-01-27T22:37:00.000-05:00

Well it has been awhile since we have had a wedding inspiration post in awhile. Luckily I can use the thisisresearchformysistersupcomingwedding excuse. (But let's be honest-- do I ever really have a reason to look at this stuff? No. But I do. Because I love it) Anyways. A few points of inspiration that caught my eye recently:

From MarthaStewartWeddings.com

Frank Lloyd Wright inspired cake.

I want to throw a dinner party just so I can do these classy satin bow napkin rings.

I love the idea of draping ribbons on a table like this. I also love the crisp contrast of the kelly green!

So there it is. Some weddingness for you to enjoy.

And the Dish Ran Away With the Spoon

2011-01-22T17:57:00.000-05:00

Hand washing dishes was not something I was super excited about when I moved from Alexandria into DC. But I survived it when I lived at my old apartment and when I was looking for my new place having a dishwasher didn't even make it on to my "must have" list. It was somewhere on the "It-would-be-nice-but-if-I-have-to-pick-between-roaches-size-or-a-dishwasher-I-will-take-hand-washing-my-dishes".

So we hand wash our dishes in my household.

It really isn't that bad. With just one of me I really don't produce that many dirty dishes unless I got on a baking or extravagant dinner binge. But I wanted to make sure I had the mother of all dishracks. At my last apartment my roommate had a decent dishrack but it was always too small, the water built up underneath the plastic water catching mat (not good when you have a roach issue, and I am sure you all remember THAT!), and the water never really made it back into the sink even with the little mat that has the lip to drip water back into the sink from the dish run-off. So we searched high and low for a great dish rack.

Thank you Storables!

I brought hope this Polder Advantage Dish Rack and while the price should indicate it a top of line dish rack, I can say I love my purchase!

First of all the rack is angled so it forces the water to run "downhill". The water catcher thing also spreads all the way under the silverware holder so now missed drips from all my utensils. The pull out drying rack is awesome! You can pull it out just part way and put light weight items like knives and small kitchenware's or set it on another counter and dry all your glasses on it. For its $50 price tag- this has made all the difference with my hand washed dishes compromise.

We Zoku Do You?

2011-01-11T23:32:00.000-05:00

For Christmas I got my sister, her fiance, and my nephew a Zoku from WS. When we went up to spend New Years in SV with her we could resist to see it in action. What transpired from the orange juice popsicle was one of my favorite memories from being home. (We also witnessed a Wyatt kiniption that was spectacular)

So we poured some OJ in:

and then we seriously stood around and watched it freeze (in SEVEN minutes!)

This is what happened next:

Trying his first popscicle

Taking things into his own hands.

And this giddy life moment happened. Yes, at the end he attempts to wipe his sticky hands on me and then goes for the couch.

We had to take it away, as the popsicle stick was going to choke the little man.

That was when the kinipstion happened.

Oh.

My.

We.

Were.

Not.

Happy.

So we put it in a bowl and had to spoon it to him.

All I can say is: Love <3

Apartment Updates

2011-01-10T00:28:00.000-05:00

Well not intentionally I took a nice little sabbatical from posting. I thought I was going to have all this free time in Idaho to post and get myself caught up on what has been going on. Wrong wrong wrong. I was so in need of just being with my family and soaking up every moment with them and the poodle. I did have a wonderful trip back and the adjustment of coming back to DC has been rather hard this time around. I cried pretty much the whole time I was on the plane (unless I was sleeping). Yes, I was that girl that no one wants to sit next to on the plane. It was rather embarrassing. Guess it shows I had the most amazing Christmas and love my family a whole whole whole lot.

I'll try to get my pictures organized so I can show of the nephew and the holidays. But for now I will talk about some exciting apartment news.

1) After much trial and tribulation (ugh cable companies) I was able have my cable and internet installed. (I also scored a pretty sweet offer for a year contract thanks to a friend who emailed me while I was home). Needless to say....TiVo has changed my life and I am watching entirely too much TV these days after work. BUT I did do quite a bit of work from my apartment this weekend which was fabulous.

I love having full control over the TV set and getting to turn it on and off whenever I feel like it. One of the simple pleasures of finally living alone. Hopefully having internet will now motivate me to blog more and get caught up on here.

2) I bought a couch! I finally did it. Made a commitment, put it in the car (thanks IKEA for your brilliant compact designs), got it home, assembled and VIOLA! was sitting on my new couch in a matter of hours. Here is what I finally brought home:

I did swap out the wood feet for some more sleek metal ones. But she looks good. Need to locate some bright throw pillows and a piece of artwork (cough *nicole* cough) to hang on the purple wall.

I also finally purchase a dish rack from Storables (drool) as well as some shelves that are going to go up in the kitchen. Speaking of the kitchen....

Finally....a picture of the wall painted grey!

I am a huge fan. So I hope you all like it too!

I have never been to Chicago...

2010-12-20T21:56:00.000-05:00

but I tend to always end up sitting in O'Hare for what seems like days!!

Today was finally go time to head home to I-Daho for the holidays. I spent a few hours in the office this morning taking care of an interview and some time sensitive issues and then headed home to finish throwing some things in my bad. I headed to the airport early to try to catch an earlier flight out of DC.

**Side cab driver story: I was asked out. Told I would be taken to a very expensive fancy restaurant if I called my driver when I got back to DC. Right....let's just say I didn't keep that business card!!

I made it out of DC early and arrive to is just starting to snow in Chicago.

Then the delays started.

It has spiraled out of control true to holiday travel and now 5.5 hours later they say I might board a plane. Might- being the key word.

Who wants to bet my bag is lost too? Who's exited to wear thier one outift they have with them! YAY!

Someday I will have to visit this city for real. As much as I love the extended periods of time in the airport I hope the next time I am in Chicago it will be to explore!

It is time to Par-tay!

2010-12-09T08:10:00.001-05:00

It is time for my work's annual holiday party. Along with that came the excuse to purchase a new dress, which I haven't done yet for any of these holiday parties I have attended. Year 1 I wore a yellow cocktail dress that I had for Senior year BD and then last year I wore my fabulous bridesmaid dress from Alli's wedding. This year I found this gem at Dillards.com:

I love her. We had a few minor issues with her at first, but things have been straightened out and I think I am going to love wearing it! I need to get cracking on finishing my feathered hair thing. I'll keep you posted on how the party (and the following morning) turns out.