Oh my, it has been a busy, busy week….and yet, somehow has just dragged onnnnnn…but, Friday has arrived….
1. Sunday afternoon Brian and I drove down to Troutdale, Oregon, to the Edgefield- one of the many wonderful McMenamins properties. I had noticed they had an outdoor amphitheater on previous visits, but hadn’t ever been to a show there (Ian played in the winery when I went down there last year). After checking out their lineup, I realized I should probably just move down there for the summer, because I’d be thrilled to see just about every show they had booked! We were already planning to see Fleet Foxes at their next Seattle show, but decided to hit this one instead. If you haven’t ever been to Edgefield, I’d totally recommend it- show or no show. They have a winery, a brewery, and a distillery…something like 5 different bars on site, that are all super cute (the bar in my parents backyard is themed after one of them). They also have a movie theater onsite, a spa with a salt water soaking pool…and the hotel itself is charming and quirky. I really love it. Anyway…saw the Fleet Foxes…which was so, so good. They always just SOUND so good. The weather was amazing, we made friends with some people on the grass that shared their blanket with us, ate pizza, drank McMenamins beer, the opener (Alela Diane) was great....It really couldn’t have been any better at all.
2. Early Monday morning, I woke up to the LOUDEST, so completely frightening noise there at Edgefield. The idea of a bomb actually crossed my mind, though I thought it more likely a plane crash, since there is an airport right there. I mean, it was so loud, and went on for a good little while. I went out to the window, and caught an actual bolt of lightning…not just the sky lighting up like the lightning we usually get in the PNW, but an actual bolt. So apparently the loud noise was just thunder. There were a few more rounds of it- but nothing like that first one. Then it downpoured for a few minutes…it was a legitimate mid-summer thunderstorm. Which was super cool, because we just don’t get those very often. And then it stopped- the sun came out, and you’d never know it had happened.
3. Wednesday was movie night…movie of the week was Free Willy. I saw this at the theater when I was…what- 8 years old?…I adopted a whale after seeing it, because they had that number at the end of the credits to call and adopt. I mean, how could you resist after sitting through that Michael Jackson song, watching the whales frolic in the ocean?? (I recently found the adoption certificate for my whale- part of the J-pod- when I was cleaning out my storage unit). We like to provide some kind of themed snack to go with the movie…but are also working on sticking to a budget, so we opted out of going all out for this particular night…we had some Swedish fish on the table for snacking, and then took a break halfway through for some Ben and Jerry’s Phish Food ice cream. Mmmmm.
4. Thursday night was the Bahama Bombers last regular season kickball game. We weren’t feeling especially confident going into the game, as we were playing the undefeated first place team in our league, and we were missing some players, and were coming off a 20-1 loss the week before (ouch, that one hurt)…but we were going to give it our all and play our best. Actually ended up being a super fun game! We had probably our best defensive games of the year (held the undefeated team to 5 runs!)…unfortunately our kicking skills didn’t match our defense, and they shut us out. But…I think we left feeling a lot more confident going in to playoffs- seeing how well we could play out in the field. Playoffs start next week…not sure the schedule yet…should be fun!
5. So…lots of fun stuff this week…but TONIGHT…tonight is the highlight of the week…it is Sonics appreciation night at the Mariner’s game. Yes! Check out the lineup of players that are going to be there: Downtown Freddie Brown, Michael Cage, Tom Chambers, Dale Ellis, Hersey Hawkins, George Karl, Shawn Kemp, Gary Payton, Detlef Schrempf (who I ran the St Paddy’s Day dash with…no big deal), Jack Sikma, Slick Watts, Lenny Wilkens, and more! Luckily, I recently pulled out all my old Sonics gear while I was clearing out the storage unit…so I have jerseys, t-shirts, fleeces, and sweatbands galore! I considered bringing along the BBQ set or lunch box that we had as a giveaway at some point…but thought that might be a hindrance to my wild yelling and cheering. Needless to say, I’m pumped, and I miss the Sonics.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
Wait, it isn't Friday....
I’m back…it’s time for a blog entry. Every morning I ease my way into the workday by glancing through various blogs for a few minutes (just a few!). And then remind myself that I need to get my own blog written. This happens every single day. And yet, I just can’t seem to get one posted. Here you go, finally.
1. I have given up on Summer for the year. It’s okay, I’m not upset about it. I generally take the optimistic approach to most things, but I’ve concluded that when it comes to sunshine (or snow, for that matter) in Seattle, it is better not to expect or hope for it, and be pleasantly surprised when it makes an appearance. Like today, for example. I am (still) without internet at home…and currently without the aid of a smart phone…so I looked out the window this morning to decide what to wear…the sky was grey, there was some fog, the ground was still wet from the rain yesterday…so I layered up with a long sleeve shirt. And what do you know…bright blue skies, 75 degrees. What a lovely surprise! I don’t expect the same tomorrow…but I will check the weather before I go home today, so I can dress appropriately.
2. The Bahama Bombers kickball season is in full swing. We are over halfway through the season, and playoffs are looming. We are currently holding our best record in Bombers history at 2-2. It’s exciting…but oh, the pressure. No. Not really at all…it has been a super fun season. We have a bunch of new players on the team this year, which has caused a lot less stress come game day when people start canceling- we always have a full roster. And we also have the opportunity to move people around in different positions and try different kicking strategies.
3. Try to contain your excitement with my next bit of news…there is now a Potbelly’s IN Seattle! Whaaaa? I know, it’s a dream come true. Potbelly’s (just in case you aren’t familiar) is a sandwich place from Chicago. They are ALL over Chicago, and was the first place I had lunch when I moved there (right before heading to Wrigley for my first Cubs game). It is tough to describe the delight of Potbelly’s…they are a much better Quiznos- toasted sammys. While the sandwiches are great, the true gems are the cookies. They are certainly at homemade cookie level, and possibly on the upper end of all homemade cookies. The next time you are downtown, give it a try. Looks like they are also planning to open one in Bellevue soon. http://www.potbelly.com/home/
4. I have been to a couple of movies lately…seriously, I love going to movies…it never gets old. Doesn’t even really matter what movie (I get disappointed with bad movies because of the price of the ticket…but still enjoy being there)- it really is the experience….the smell of popcorn, snacks-sneaking ice cream in is the best, finding the center seat, your shoes getting stuck to the sticky floor (I don’t actually love that part),etc…love going to a movie. There are certainly better theaters, which I have only started realizing and appreciating due to Brian’s theater needs. We went and saw Super 8 at the Science Center Imax…which was absolutely the best place to see it. Such a nostalgic, fun film…fantastic casting! Saw the final Harry Potter this weekend at the Cinerama…which is for sure the go-to theater for big releases…PLUS, the snacks are super cheap! Was very happy with the final HP…sad that it is over, though I definitely didn’t feel the same mourning as when I finished the last book. That really was the ‘ending’ for me….the movies were fun to watch, but were never UNBELIEVABLE. But I definitely left the theater satisfied. Also recently saw Midnight in Paris. Which was not at all what I expected. I hadn’t seen any previews and didn’t know what it was supposed to be about…I just knew it was a Woody Allen film, so would probably have some weird sexual elements to the story, that it had an interesting mix of actors, and that it was in Paris…and really, I don’t care how cheesy it could have been, I would have seen it just for scenes of Paris. But it turned out to be a great movie! Really fun concept…a few things could have been done better (I think), but overall, REALLY liked and recommend it.
5. I’m sure after my last few posts you have imagined me kicking back in my new apartment, all put together and organized by this point (I mean, I have lived there for 2.5 months now)….BUT, no. Still boxes. Don’t get me wrong…there has been a significant amount of time and work put into it…there is just SO MUCH STUFF. But, this is the week…it will be 92.7% complete after this week. I have gotten to the point where I am tired of going through boxes, so it is much easier to just get rid of stuff. There will be several trips to the Goodwill in the next couple of days. I can’t wait to be done. Can’t wait for the area between the kitchen and my bedroom (also known as the living room) to not be an obstacle course- this is the week.
There you have it. Enjoy the sunshine.
1. I have given up on Summer for the year. It’s okay, I’m not upset about it. I generally take the optimistic approach to most things, but I’ve concluded that when it comes to sunshine (or snow, for that matter) in Seattle, it is better not to expect or hope for it, and be pleasantly surprised when it makes an appearance. Like today, for example. I am (still) without internet at home…and currently without the aid of a smart phone…so I looked out the window this morning to decide what to wear…the sky was grey, there was some fog, the ground was still wet from the rain yesterday…so I layered up with a long sleeve shirt. And what do you know…bright blue skies, 75 degrees. What a lovely surprise! I don’t expect the same tomorrow…but I will check the weather before I go home today, so I can dress appropriately.
2. The Bahama Bombers kickball season is in full swing. We are over halfway through the season, and playoffs are looming. We are currently holding our best record in Bombers history at 2-2. It’s exciting…but oh, the pressure. No. Not really at all…it has been a super fun season. We have a bunch of new players on the team this year, which has caused a lot less stress come game day when people start canceling- we always have a full roster. And we also have the opportunity to move people around in different positions and try different kicking strategies.
3. Try to contain your excitement with my next bit of news…there is now a Potbelly’s IN Seattle! Whaaaa? I know, it’s a dream come true. Potbelly’s (just in case you aren’t familiar) is a sandwich place from Chicago. They are ALL over Chicago, and was the first place I had lunch when I moved there (right before heading to Wrigley for my first Cubs game). It is tough to describe the delight of Potbelly’s…they are a much better Quiznos- toasted sammys. While the sandwiches are great, the true gems are the cookies. They are certainly at homemade cookie level, and possibly on the upper end of all homemade cookies. The next time you are downtown, give it a try. Looks like they are also planning to open one in Bellevue soon. http://www.potbelly.com/home/
4. I have been to a couple of movies lately…seriously, I love going to movies…it never gets old. Doesn’t even really matter what movie (I get disappointed with bad movies because of the price of the ticket…but still enjoy being there)- it really is the experience….the smell of popcorn, snacks-sneaking ice cream in is the best, finding the center seat, your shoes getting stuck to the sticky floor (I don’t actually love that part),etc…love going to a movie. There are certainly better theaters, which I have only started realizing and appreciating due to Brian’s theater needs. We went and saw Super 8 at the Science Center Imax…which was absolutely the best place to see it. Such a nostalgic, fun film…fantastic casting! Saw the final Harry Potter this weekend at the Cinerama…which is for sure the go-to theater for big releases…PLUS, the snacks are super cheap! Was very happy with the final HP…sad that it is over, though I definitely didn’t feel the same mourning as when I finished the last book. That really was the ‘ending’ for me….the movies were fun to watch, but were never UNBELIEVABLE. But I definitely left the theater satisfied. Also recently saw Midnight in Paris. Which was not at all what I expected. I hadn’t seen any previews and didn’t know what it was supposed to be about…I just knew it was a Woody Allen film, so would probably have some weird sexual elements to the story, that it had an interesting mix of actors, and that it was in Paris…and really, I don’t care how cheesy it could have been, I would have seen it just for scenes of Paris. But it turned out to be a great movie! Really fun concept…a few things could have been done better (I think), but overall, REALLY liked and recommend it.
5. I’m sure after my last few posts you have imagined me kicking back in my new apartment, all put together and organized by this point (I mean, I have lived there for 2.5 months now)….BUT, no. Still boxes. Don’t get me wrong…there has been a significant amount of time and work put into it…there is just SO MUCH STUFF. But, this is the week…it will be 92.7% complete after this week. I have gotten to the point where I am tired of going through boxes, so it is much easier to just get rid of stuff. There will be several trips to the Goodwill in the next couple of days. I can’t wait to be done. Can’t wait for the area between the kitchen and my bedroom (also known as the living room) to not be an obstacle course- this is the week.
There you have it. Enjoy the sunshine.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Friday, the 13th!
I mean, seriously people…3 weeks in a row…I am on a roll. What is it- 28 days for something to become a habit?…either that means one more week of blogging and I’m back in it, or another half a year (since the blog is only one day a week)…here’s the five:
1. Will moving never end? Jeez Louise. I know that in the past I have kept my belongings to a minimum so I could pretty much pack up and leave in about 2 hours, and I have worked at making Seattle my home, thus adding more stuff…but I don’t remember moving being so unbelievably long and miserable. I have bruises all over my arms and legs from carrying boxes…I’m sure my muscle mass has tripled (I know, that sounds super intimidating), and I still have a ton left to do. I haven’t even STARTED unpacking at the new place…I actually think I will enjoy that. I am pretty well covered as far as the necessities at this point…I got a nice set of pots and pans for my birthday as well as some gift cards to help with the other purchases. There have been several trips to Target, a couple to Ikea, and then the random items given to me by friends and family. BUT, everything has to be out of the old place by Saturday…so while I’m not looking forward to finishing, it is nice to have an end in sight.
2. This past weekend, on top of clearing out the storage unit (thanks so much for your help mom!!), was Mother’s Day and my birthday. The last time these two VERY special days landed on the same date, the fam thought it would be hilarious to go to brunch at the BLT (oh, you aren’t familiar with the BLT? It’s the ever-classy Bonney Lake Tavern…as my mom says “but Eryn, they have a champagne fountain”). For whatever reason, I didn’t find it as amusing as everyone else, and it has been a joke ever since. There were many threats of that happening again this year. To ensure this didn’t happen, I suggested to Ron we create a surprise brunch at home. He came back and suggested it be a Disney World themed brunch…and we went from there. Ron put together a beautiful omelette bar…with every possible ingredient you could think of…from any of the many character breakfasts around the park. I made some Tonga Toast- the fried, banana-stuffed, cinnamon and sugar rolled french toast goodness from the Polynesian resort…there was a Toy Story table cloth and my Mickey Mouse plate set. She was surprised and it was yummy…I did feel bad though that she thought we just hadn’t made any plans, and she was frantically trying to make reservations up until that morning.
3. This Tuesday was the second Tuesday of the month, which meant it was time for The Round. I hadn’t been in a couple of months, and was excited…this was a particularly good one…Moondoggies, Campfire OK, and a new discovery- Kaylee Cole. I don’t usually love girl voices, but she was incredible. Definitely a highlight. The slam poets always blow me away…there are certainly those that are better than others…but even the ones that I don’t necessarily enjoy, amaze me. Their word choices and imagery is always so powerful. A lot of times I don’t like the rhythm or movements they perform with, because it often seems…um, generic? Not quite the word I want, but so many of them talk with the exact same rhythm, which takes away from the power of what they are saying. Every once in awhile though, you get those ones where they pause in just the right moments, making you lean forward in anticipation. Regardless of the actual performance, the fact that they (especially the high school kids!) can get up in front of a room of friends and strangers and share their thoughts is really amazing to me.
4. Wednesday night Death Cab for Cutie put on a last minute show at the Showbox Sodo…they announced the show on Tuesday morning, and the show went on sale THAT morning and sold out pretty quickly. Brian happened to catch the news early on and somehow managed to get tickets, so we went. It was their first show in almost 2 years, and it seemed like they were having fun playing together, making little mistakes and laughing. I don’t love the Showbox Sodo, but still- was a cool, small venue to see the band (since their next local show is headlining Sasquatch at the Gorge!). I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan (I don’t dislike…just wouldn’t ever pick them to listen to)…I’ve tried really hard to like them- I feel like I should. But I don’t. I felt a little bit guilty about being at the show, since so many big time fans weren’t able to get tickets…sorry guys. It was great.
5. Finally, a sunny day today. I really, REALLY wish it would stick around. I know it will cloud up this weekend, and the ten-day forecast is currently full of gray clouds and raindrops…but today, there is sunshine. It’s amazing what a difference that makes to everyone’s mood. Please stick around, Sun…please? Have a super weekend!
1. Will moving never end? Jeez Louise. I know that in the past I have kept my belongings to a minimum so I could pretty much pack up and leave in about 2 hours, and I have worked at making Seattle my home, thus adding more stuff…but I don’t remember moving being so unbelievably long and miserable. I have bruises all over my arms and legs from carrying boxes…I’m sure my muscle mass has tripled (I know, that sounds super intimidating), and I still have a ton left to do. I haven’t even STARTED unpacking at the new place…I actually think I will enjoy that. I am pretty well covered as far as the necessities at this point…I got a nice set of pots and pans for my birthday as well as some gift cards to help with the other purchases. There have been several trips to Target, a couple to Ikea, and then the random items given to me by friends and family. BUT, everything has to be out of the old place by Saturday…so while I’m not looking forward to finishing, it is nice to have an end in sight.
2. This past weekend, on top of clearing out the storage unit (thanks so much for your help mom!!), was Mother’s Day and my birthday. The last time these two VERY special days landed on the same date, the fam thought it would be hilarious to go to brunch at the BLT (oh, you aren’t familiar with the BLT? It’s the ever-classy Bonney Lake Tavern…as my mom says “but Eryn, they have a champagne fountain”). For whatever reason, I didn’t find it as amusing as everyone else, and it has been a joke ever since. There were many threats of that happening again this year. To ensure this didn’t happen, I suggested to Ron we create a surprise brunch at home. He came back and suggested it be a Disney World themed brunch…and we went from there. Ron put together a beautiful omelette bar…with every possible ingredient you could think of…from any of the many character breakfasts around the park. I made some Tonga Toast- the fried, banana-stuffed, cinnamon and sugar rolled french toast goodness from the Polynesian resort…there was a Toy Story table cloth and my Mickey Mouse plate set. She was surprised and it was yummy…I did feel bad though that she thought we just hadn’t made any plans, and she was frantically trying to make reservations up until that morning.
3. This Tuesday was the second Tuesday of the month, which meant it was time for The Round. I hadn’t been in a couple of months, and was excited…this was a particularly good one…Moondoggies, Campfire OK, and a new discovery- Kaylee Cole. I don’t usually love girl voices, but she was incredible. Definitely a highlight. The slam poets always blow me away…there are certainly those that are better than others…but even the ones that I don’t necessarily enjoy, amaze me. Their word choices and imagery is always so powerful. A lot of times I don’t like the rhythm or movements they perform with, because it often seems…um, generic? Not quite the word I want, but so many of them talk with the exact same rhythm, which takes away from the power of what they are saying. Every once in awhile though, you get those ones where they pause in just the right moments, making you lean forward in anticipation. Regardless of the actual performance, the fact that they (especially the high school kids!) can get up in front of a room of friends and strangers and share their thoughts is really amazing to me.
4. Wednesday night Death Cab for Cutie put on a last minute show at the Showbox Sodo…they announced the show on Tuesday morning, and the show went on sale THAT morning and sold out pretty quickly. Brian happened to catch the news early on and somehow managed to get tickets, so we went. It was their first show in almost 2 years, and it seemed like they were having fun playing together, making little mistakes and laughing. I don’t love the Showbox Sodo, but still- was a cool, small venue to see the band (since their next local show is headlining Sasquatch at the Gorge!). I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan (I don’t dislike…just wouldn’t ever pick them to listen to)…I’ve tried really hard to like them- I feel like I should. But I don’t. I felt a little bit guilty about being at the show, since so many big time fans weren’t able to get tickets…sorry guys. It was great.
5. Finally, a sunny day today. I really, REALLY wish it would stick around. I know it will cloud up this weekend, and the ten-day forecast is currently full of gray clouds and raindrops…but today, there is sunshine. It’s amazing what a difference that makes to everyone’s mood. Please stick around, Sun…please? Have a super weekend!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Friday- woot, woot!
Hey! Finally…a week that flew by (it’s been awhile since I’ve had a quick week, I guess)…here are the five:
1. Last weekend my mom and I drove over to Kittitas to visit my aunt, uncle, and cousins…I make the trip over every couple of months, but this visit was a special one…it was prom for the two older boys…and more specifically, SENIOR prom for Zach. Oh my gosh…I can’t believe Zach is graduating from high school. I have so many memories of that kid growing up… I fully remember my first actual conversation with him- when he was first putting together sentences…he is still the only kid, with all the babysitting I’ve done, that I have ever had to call poison control for… I remember when he learned how to use scissors at school and cut holes in his shirt and told his mom he ran into a tree branch…I mean, how is he possibly a graduating? Anyway…this wasn’t supposed to be an “I’m so old” point…just that the boys were very handsome in their tuxes and their dates were lovely…and it was fun to be there and take so many pictures! when I go home this weekend, I'll try to remember to post some pics!
2. Well, I started the moving process on Sunday, from my old apartment to the new…I have not been super productive. Sunday my dad and brother came up with a couch and chair, and helped me move my bedroom furniture…and that is about as far as I’ve gotten all week. I finally brought the shower curtain over last night…I’m pretty much still living out of an overnight bag. There will be some serious progress made this weekend though. My mom and I are going to spend some time sorting through my storage unit, and I will get all the STUFF to the new place. Organizing the stuff is going to take some time though. I have been staying at the new place all week, but it definitely doesn’t feel homey yet…it was super cool this morning, when I was walking out front, getting ready to head to work, there were lots of animal sounds coming from the zoo! Exciting…they were all getting up and saying good morning!
3. I went to a super great show on Tuesday- finally saw the Fleet Foxes…I feel like I bought the tickets to the show YEARS ago. I haven’t ever seen them, but do really like them…and it was really just so good! They are such a tight sounding band…it never sounds like individuals, but like they just pushed play somewhere and one sound comes out. There was a ton of time spent on tuning guitars, which was only slightly annoying (I mean, they literally could have played at least 3-4 more songs in the time that was spent tuning), but I suppose that is why the songs sound so amazing, right? Can’t complain too much. It was also very cool to see them at the Moore…pretty small venue.
4. Yesterday was the first Thursday of the month, which means free museum days, so Brian and I decided to be super classy and cultured and went to the Seattle Art Museum. They just opened a new exhibit of Nick Cave (not the musician)…Meet me at the Center of the Earth. He created these ‘sound suits’, which are these costumes put together with re-used…stuff. There were suits made from doilies, buttons, sweaters, etc…they were all super colorful and whimsical. They also had a big parade out front of the museum, where people came dressed up in their own ‘sound suits’, and walked together, lead by a marching band, along 1st avenue. It was quite a sight!!
5. Well, I am currently waiting for my lunch to get delivered and I am starving…all I can think about at the moment is my Red Mill chicken verde burger…ohhh, is it going to be delicious. AND, as if Red Mill on a work day isn’t exciting enough, we get to have treats today for my birthday! Yes! Okay, it should be here at any second…good bye for now!
1. Last weekend my mom and I drove over to Kittitas to visit my aunt, uncle, and cousins…I make the trip over every couple of months, but this visit was a special one…it was prom for the two older boys…and more specifically, SENIOR prom for Zach. Oh my gosh…I can’t believe Zach is graduating from high school. I have so many memories of that kid growing up… I fully remember my first actual conversation with him- when he was first putting together sentences…he is still the only kid, with all the babysitting I’ve done, that I have ever had to call poison control for… I remember when he learned how to use scissors at school and cut holes in his shirt and told his mom he ran into a tree branch…I mean, how is he possibly a graduating? Anyway…this wasn’t supposed to be an “I’m so old” point…just that the boys were very handsome in their tuxes and their dates were lovely…and it was fun to be there and take so many pictures! when I go home this weekend, I'll try to remember to post some pics!
2. Well, I started the moving process on Sunday, from my old apartment to the new…I have not been super productive. Sunday my dad and brother came up with a couch and chair, and helped me move my bedroom furniture…and that is about as far as I’ve gotten all week. I finally brought the shower curtain over last night…I’m pretty much still living out of an overnight bag. There will be some serious progress made this weekend though. My mom and I are going to spend some time sorting through my storage unit, and I will get all the STUFF to the new place. Organizing the stuff is going to take some time though. I have been staying at the new place all week, but it definitely doesn’t feel homey yet…it was super cool this morning, when I was walking out front, getting ready to head to work, there were lots of animal sounds coming from the zoo! Exciting…they were all getting up and saying good morning!
3. I went to a super great show on Tuesday- finally saw the Fleet Foxes…I feel like I bought the tickets to the show YEARS ago. I haven’t ever seen them, but do really like them…and it was really just so good! They are such a tight sounding band…it never sounds like individuals, but like they just pushed play somewhere and one sound comes out. There was a ton of time spent on tuning guitars, which was only slightly annoying (I mean, they literally could have played at least 3-4 more songs in the time that was spent tuning), but I suppose that is why the songs sound so amazing, right? Can’t complain too much. It was also very cool to see them at the Moore…pretty small venue.
4. Yesterday was the first Thursday of the month, which means free museum days, so Brian and I decided to be super classy and cultured and went to the Seattle Art Museum. They just opened a new exhibit of Nick Cave (not the musician)…Meet me at the Center of the Earth. He created these ‘sound suits’, which are these costumes put together with re-used…stuff. There were suits made from doilies, buttons, sweaters, etc…they were all super colorful and whimsical. They also had a big parade out front of the museum, where people came dressed up in their own ‘sound suits’, and walked together, lead by a marching band, along 1st avenue. It was quite a sight!!
5. Well, I am currently waiting for my lunch to get delivered and I am starving…all I can think about at the moment is my Red Mill chicken verde burger…ohhh, is it going to be delicious. AND, as if Red Mill on a work day isn’t exciting enough, we get to have treats today for my birthday! Yes! Okay, it should be here at any second…good bye for now!
Friday, April 29, 2011
April 29th!
Hey! I’m back and, being that I have attempted to write this particular blog entry (the return entry from the long hiatus) tens of times, I’m just going to get right to it.
1. I’m moving! No, no…I’m not moving away again…I’m actually quite content here in Seattle. But I’m moving to a new apartment. I have been in my same apartment in Fremont for, ummm, maybe 3+ years, with my same lovely roommate…and it has been great. But, recently I’ve just been feeling like it’s about that time to get my own space…make myself invest in some furniture and house stuff. I’m feeling a little anxious about the decision- I think mostly just because it all happened SO fast. I was just casually looking around at different sites, trying to get an idea of what kind of place I could afford. I had a couple of priorities-location and washer/dryer in unit…and then ideally a HOUSE versus apt. One day I came across a place that had all of those requirements, so I decided to take a look. I decided what the heck, filled out an application…and then the next day got the call that it was mine if I wanted it, but he had other people waiting so needed to know that day if I was interested…pressure! So, that’s the story…I get the keys on May 1st and will begin the moving process. As I mentioned previously, I don’t have much of anything to fill the place…currently I have a bed, bookshelf, couch, chair, dishes, toaster, blender, food processor….and that is just about it. So if anyone is planning to get rid of anything…please feel free to pass it along to me!
2. More excitement…I just returned (okay, a couple weeks ago) from a long weekend trip to Disneyland. It had been a couple of years since I was last there, and a few more years before that since my last proper Disney trip. It was so great! Disney highlights included-making faces for the picture in Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, having a sore arm from intense games of Toy Story Mania, fighting through crowds to get a blue section fastpass for the new night time show at California Adventure, World of Color (which was a cool show, but not as great Fantasmic), a delightful question and answer session with Crush (from Finding Nemo) in Turtle Talk that included some priceless comments from multiple kiddos, and a 16+ hour day that started with a magic morning entry (1 hr before the park opens) at Disneyland, over to California Adventure for the entire day (and a visit from Amy who recently made the move to LA…so fun to see her!), with a return to Disneyland to close that park down…it was pretty impressive really. In addition to the Disney fun, we also went to a taping of Conan, which was super cool (and Rory Gilmore was one of the guests!), went to a Dodgers game (loved that the stadium was up on a hill and completely let you forget you were in Los Angeles), and visited Laguna Beach and Newport Beach Tommy Bahama restaurants…so yummy! Such a stellar trip!
3. With Amazon making the move to our South Lake Union area, there has been several new restaurants popping in…which has been great (always nice to have new lunch and happy hour options close by)…Tom Douglas has taken over…in the past few months he has opened 5 new spots- he opened a second Serious Pie (fancy pizza), with a Dahlia Bakery below it (the biscuit and jam in the morning is unbelievable!), with a wine shop next door (I haven’t taken advantage of the occasional complimentary tastings NEARLY enough). More recently he opened Cuoco (hand made pasta), which we had an HR lunch at and it was AMAZING…sigh when I think of the gnocchi I ate. Finally made it to the Bravehorse Tavern last night, which was SO COOL. It’s pretty good size and was completely packed by 5:05pm. There is shuffleboard, lots of types of beer, and big pretzels with dipping sauces that included peanut butter/bacon, sour cream/onion, and pimento cheese. Bomb. I haven’t had the opportunity to try his new Dumpling place yet- TingMomo.
4. One of the reasons I was hoping to find a house rather than apartment building to move into, is because I really like the idea of growing vegetables and herbs in the yard. I’m not sure why I like the idea…I tried growing corn when I was younger and it did not turn out well, I think my mom might have tried tomatoes once, and I don’t remember that being successful, I’ve never done any flower planting…I think we grew radishes at my dad’s house when we were little…but who wants to eat a bunch of radishes? But anyway…I still really like the idea of it…so I’m going to give it a try. I have a bit of room in my backyard to work with….and I’d like to find a few things that won’t discourage me…because realistically, I don’t think I’m going to end up spending a ton of time on this stuff. Any suggestions of easy veggies or herbs? I’ll probs do some tomato plants…I think beans would be fun, but I’m not sure how difficult those might be. I like the idea of carrots…pulling things out of the ground- that sounds fun. The only herbs that I regularly use in cooking is rosemary- which I can probably grow, basil- I have tried a basil plant before but I have found I don’t use enough of it and the plant goes to waste…that’s about it. I like dill…I wonder if that would be doable…hmm. Anyway…suggestions?
5. And finally, how could I possibly make a post today- Friday April 29th, without mentioning the royal wedding? I mean, that is all that’s being talked about…just about every computer screen I walk by at work has random pictures from the big event. But, I think that’s about all I have to say….I just don’t care. It’s a ridiculously expensive wedding.
And there you go…five for this Friday. A quick Happy 30th Birthday to my big sis, Danielle!
Hope you all have a super weekend, with perhaps some sunshine? Fingers crossed, right?! Sorry about the rambling and maybe not as interesting writing…I haven’t been doing much of it lately and it might take some time to get my writing voice back…
1. I’m moving! No, no…I’m not moving away again…I’m actually quite content here in Seattle. But I’m moving to a new apartment. I have been in my same apartment in Fremont for, ummm, maybe 3+ years, with my same lovely roommate…and it has been great. But, recently I’ve just been feeling like it’s about that time to get my own space…make myself invest in some furniture and house stuff. I’m feeling a little anxious about the decision- I think mostly just because it all happened SO fast. I was just casually looking around at different sites, trying to get an idea of what kind of place I could afford. I had a couple of priorities-location and washer/dryer in unit…and then ideally a HOUSE versus apt. One day I came across a place that had all of those requirements, so I decided to take a look. I decided what the heck, filled out an application…and then the next day got the call that it was mine if I wanted it, but he had other people waiting so needed to know that day if I was interested…pressure! So, that’s the story…I get the keys on May 1st and will begin the moving process. As I mentioned previously, I don’t have much of anything to fill the place…currently I have a bed, bookshelf, couch, chair, dishes, toaster, blender, food processor….and that is just about it. So if anyone is planning to get rid of anything…please feel free to pass it along to me!
2. More excitement…I just returned (okay, a couple weeks ago) from a long weekend trip to Disneyland. It had been a couple of years since I was last there, and a few more years before that since my last proper Disney trip. It was so great! Disney highlights included-making faces for the picture in Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, having a sore arm from intense games of Toy Story Mania, fighting through crowds to get a blue section fastpass for the new night time show at California Adventure, World of Color (which was a cool show, but not as great Fantasmic), a delightful question and answer session with Crush (from Finding Nemo) in Turtle Talk that included some priceless comments from multiple kiddos, and a 16+ hour day that started with a magic morning entry (1 hr before the park opens) at Disneyland, over to California Adventure for the entire day (and a visit from Amy who recently made the move to LA…so fun to see her!), with a return to Disneyland to close that park down…it was pretty impressive really. In addition to the Disney fun, we also went to a taping of Conan, which was super cool (and Rory Gilmore was one of the guests!), went to a Dodgers game (loved that the stadium was up on a hill and completely let you forget you were in Los Angeles), and visited Laguna Beach and Newport Beach Tommy Bahama restaurants…so yummy! Such a stellar trip!
3. With Amazon making the move to our South Lake Union area, there has been several new restaurants popping in…which has been great (always nice to have new lunch and happy hour options close by)…Tom Douglas has taken over…in the past few months he has opened 5 new spots- he opened a second Serious Pie (fancy pizza), with a Dahlia Bakery below it (the biscuit and jam in the morning is unbelievable!), with a wine shop next door (I haven’t taken advantage of the occasional complimentary tastings NEARLY enough). More recently he opened Cuoco (hand made pasta), which we had an HR lunch at and it was AMAZING…sigh when I think of the gnocchi I ate. Finally made it to the Bravehorse Tavern last night, which was SO COOL. It’s pretty good size and was completely packed by 5:05pm. There is shuffleboard, lots of types of beer, and big pretzels with dipping sauces that included peanut butter/bacon, sour cream/onion, and pimento cheese. Bomb. I haven’t had the opportunity to try his new Dumpling place yet- TingMomo.
4. One of the reasons I was hoping to find a house rather than apartment building to move into, is because I really like the idea of growing vegetables and herbs in the yard. I’m not sure why I like the idea…I tried growing corn when I was younger and it did not turn out well, I think my mom might have tried tomatoes once, and I don’t remember that being successful, I’ve never done any flower planting…I think we grew radishes at my dad’s house when we were little…but who wants to eat a bunch of radishes? But anyway…I still really like the idea of it…so I’m going to give it a try. I have a bit of room in my backyard to work with….and I’d like to find a few things that won’t discourage me…because realistically, I don’t think I’m going to end up spending a ton of time on this stuff. Any suggestions of easy veggies or herbs? I’ll probs do some tomato plants…I think beans would be fun, but I’m not sure how difficult those might be. I like the idea of carrots…pulling things out of the ground- that sounds fun. The only herbs that I regularly use in cooking is rosemary- which I can probably grow, basil- I have tried a basil plant before but I have found I don’t use enough of it and the plant goes to waste…that’s about it. I like dill…I wonder if that would be doable…hmm. Anyway…suggestions?
5. And finally, how could I possibly make a post today- Friday April 29th, without mentioning the royal wedding? I mean, that is all that’s being talked about…just about every computer screen I walk by at work has random pictures from the big event. But, I think that’s about all I have to say….I just don’t care. It’s a ridiculously expensive wedding.
And there you go…five for this Friday. A quick Happy 30th Birthday to my big sis, Danielle!
Hope you all have a super weekend, with perhaps some sunshine? Fingers crossed, right?! Sorry about the rambling and maybe not as interesting writing…I haven’t been doing much of it lately and it might take some time to get my writing voice back…
Friday, November 26, 2010
Time for a change!
Did that blog title make you think I am moving away, finally tired of the same thing here in Seattle and ready for something new? Well, since my 2009 goal was to finish what I start, and my 2010 goal is to do my best to feel happy and settled in Seattle- there is no way I'm moving away with only one month left in the year...must finish what I start! And actually, I really am happy to still be in Seattle. And the thought of moving away has only crept into my mind a small handful of times over the year, and only for a very brief, panicky couple of moments. So no..."time for a change" is only in reference to my blog. Which I haven't been writing on at all this year. Just wasn't feeling motivated...probably due to all that enjoying being in Seattle stuff...rather than sitting and writing about it, I was out doing it...I know, that's only excuse. I apologize for my lack of writing. BUT, I have decided on a new blog topic.
For a long time I have been wanting to write a "This I Believe", which is a feature on NPR- they have put out a few books that I have spent several hours sitting in book stores, in the oversized comfy chairs, reading (a little like stealing, since I never buy the book...but I always put it back, right where it belongs!). People write essays on a topic...something they believe in-strongly enough to write an essay about. They are really fun to read...most of them are serious, some are funny...but they all make you think about and question what you believe. I've wanted to write a "This I Believe" for a long time, but it always seems so overwhelming. I mean, how do you pick a topic...there are few things in life (or so many things...I can't even decide on that!), that at my young age (I know, I know...I'm getting old) that I can write about, without a doubt, above all else in my head, that I believe. There are definitely a couple of things that I feel that strongly about not changing- my faith in God...though I think I would have a tough time writing an essay on that, especially without sounding annoying and preachy, and probably pretty unoriginal. I also believe that strongly in my mom...I could probably write that one.
Anyway...in an attempt to come up with the right topic to write about, I realized that something else I very much believe in is being able to think about, question, and change your beliefs. Once I realized that, I decided it isn't so intimidating to write a "This I Believe" essay...because it's okay if one day I change my mind about what I wrote. That's allowed. So, my new blog topic is going to be a This I Believe. Each week I'll write about a different topic...no pressure for it to be some big, heavy something...I'm sure it will be on occasion, but with the freedom of writing on something new each week, I can write about small, silly things (not that silly things are ANY less important in life than heavy, serious things...I def believe that!).
Normally I would wait to start the new blog until January...start of the new year...but what better time to start writing about believing than the holidays? Last year, around holiday time, I wrote about how I just wasn't feeling any magic...I had seen the new Disney princess movie and felt that it was missing the magic I was hoping for; I never really got into the holidays, etc...there is no way I would have been able to write about this topic at that point. I'm not sure what the difference is this year...actually, I could name so many things that are different about this year...but whatever it is that has made the difference, I am seeing and feeling lots of magic and cheer and just general happiness...so- This I Believe begins next week!
Until then...have a stellar week!
For a long time I have been wanting to write a "This I Believe", which is a feature on NPR- they have put out a few books that I have spent several hours sitting in book stores, in the oversized comfy chairs, reading (a little like stealing, since I never buy the book...but I always put it back, right where it belongs!). People write essays on a topic...something they believe in-strongly enough to write an essay about. They are really fun to read...most of them are serious, some are funny...but they all make you think about and question what you believe. I've wanted to write a "This I Believe" for a long time, but it always seems so overwhelming. I mean, how do you pick a topic...there are few things in life (or so many things...I can't even decide on that!), that at my young age (I know, I know...I'm getting old) that I can write about, without a doubt, above all else in my head, that I believe. There are definitely a couple of things that I feel that strongly about not changing- my faith in God...though I think I would have a tough time writing an essay on that, especially without sounding annoying and preachy, and probably pretty unoriginal. I also believe that strongly in my mom...I could probably write that one.
Anyway...in an attempt to come up with the right topic to write about, I realized that something else I very much believe in is being able to think about, question, and change your beliefs. Once I realized that, I decided it isn't so intimidating to write a "This I Believe" essay...because it's okay if one day I change my mind about what I wrote. That's allowed. So, my new blog topic is going to be a This I Believe. Each week I'll write about a different topic...no pressure for it to be some big, heavy something...I'm sure it will be on occasion, but with the freedom of writing on something new each week, I can write about small, silly things (not that silly things are ANY less important in life than heavy, serious things...I def believe that!).
Normally I would wait to start the new blog until January...start of the new year...but what better time to start writing about believing than the holidays? Last year, around holiday time, I wrote about how I just wasn't feeling any magic...I had seen the new Disney princess movie and felt that it was missing the magic I was hoping for; I never really got into the holidays, etc...there is no way I would have been able to write about this topic at that point. I'm not sure what the difference is this year...actually, I could name so many things that are different about this year...but whatever it is that has made the difference, I am seeing and feeling lots of magic and cheer and just general happiness...so- This I Believe begins next week!
Until then...have a stellar week!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Friday, April 9th!
Happy Friday! Doesn’t it seem like it was JUST Friday? I feel like the weeks are flying by again, which is great…I mean, c’mon, we are almost halfway through April! Though with the weather we have had this week, you wouldn’t know what month we are in, at any given moment. We have had sunshine, rain, a little snow (!), and as I look out the window right now, hail. Here are your five for the week:
1. Okay, this might gross you out a little bit. Spiders…are taking over my jeep. I know, it’s a little bit gross, and a little bit terrifying. Every year when I put the hard top back on, I find the occasional spider here and there, because the top sat outside all summer long. This year, there weren’t any…I just figured I must have done a superb job wiping it all down. Then, about two weeks ago, I noticed a little clump of tiny little movers in the back corner…I went in for a closer look, and realized they were baby spiders. Wonderful. So I grabbed a stick, did my best to hook them and their web onto the stick and put them outside. Then I noticed a little white sack up in the corner of the jeep, so I grabbed another stick and scraped it off…when I did that, it broke open and a bunch of little baby spiders fell out (still attached by their webs)…I tried to gather as many up as I could and put them outside…knowing there would probably still be a couple stragglers. Well, on Wednesday, I noticed another little group of them up in the back corner. So, once again, I climbed back there and tried to nicely get them outside…and then noticed there were many more than I anticipated. They were pretty much all over the back of the jeep…kicking it on my emergency kit, around my toolbox, on the back seat. Sigh…so I think I’m going to have to put my good karma at risk and bug bomb the car…yuck.
2. I listened to a great “Stuff You Should Know” podcast…possibly my favorite one yet (though I did very much enjoy “what is a hangover” as well) titled, “How To Survive a Plane Crash”. While I fly fairly frequently, and wouldn’t necessarily say I’m afraid of flying, I definitely am not comfortable with it. So yes, please, tell me how to survive a plane crash. Well, turns out, of all the plane crashes that have happened- 90% of the people survive. What?! It’s because the news really only covers the big, terrible crashes. And most crashes happen during take off and landing, so they aren’t so dramatic. But there’s more…of the crashes that have happened from way up at 30,000 feet, 50% of people survived. That’s fairly reassuring. People always say you are way more likely to get in a car accident than a plane accident, but that never made me feel better, because on the chance you WERE in a plane accident, you were probably a goner…but turns out, not so. A few helpful hints to survival: when you get on the plane, count the number of seats between you and the exit. There is a good chance you will be in the dark or even underwater and you won’t be able to see the exit sign, but you can feel the number of seats. Also, people sitting in the back have a better chance of survival (bummer, I way prefer the front). Wear clothing that covers your body- long sleeves, long pants, tennis shoes, in case of fire. Ummm, what else…that’s all I currently remember- oh, don’t drink alcohol…so there you go…no more fear of flying.
3. I’ve never been an avid American Idol viewer, but somehow I seem to have kept up on this particular season. And there are actually a few of the contestants that I really like. While I don’t think he’ll win the show, or even be around to the very end, I like Andrew Garcia…there is a great video of him on YouTube doing Straight Up…he reminds me of a Jason Mraz when he covers songs…makes them fun with his guitar (which, by the way, my three favs all play guitar…I really like the addition of instruments for the performers). I really like Crystal Bowersox…she performs and you aren’t nervous about her messing up or if she will pick the wrong song…she is great. She did a Janis Joplin song- so great. She has amazing confidence as a performer. But my very fav, and who I’d love to see win, is Lee Dewyze. He has this kind of shy, unsure of himself, nervous feeling each week…and then he goes out and plays his guitar and belts it out…very Ray Lamontagne-ish. Really, really like him.
4. Check out www.dishkarma.com and fill in your ultimate meal…your very favorite restaurant selections for each of the course categories…and check out what other people have picked for their ultimate meals…fun concept…but I warn you, as soon as you log on to enter in your ultimate meal (go do it right now!), your mind will go blank…all those amazing dishes you wish you could enjoy everyday- completely out the window. So think about it ahead of time….and now, go enter them in!
5. I gave up reading the Devil in the White City- for the moment (it was over due at the library), and I just felt like it was such an effort to read. But I got a little bit ambitious with my library holds- and all three became available at the same time…no idea how I will get through them in my three week check out time…but I’ll be doing a lot of reading this weekend. Yesterday I started, and am about halfway through The Sun Also Rises, by Hemingway…I have been wanting to read something of his for a long while, and I am really enjoying it- totally accessible and easy to read. Next, I am going to tackle a long-time-to-read-but-totally-intimidated book- the Brothers Karamozov…I’m afraid I won’t get through it, but I’m going to try my hardest. And then, I have had a couple of people recommend the Count of Monte Cristo..it is unbelievably long, but everyone I’ve talked to that read it, loved it…so I don’t think it will be tough, just long.
Alright…have a great weekend!
1. Okay, this might gross you out a little bit. Spiders…are taking over my jeep. I know, it’s a little bit gross, and a little bit terrifying. Every year when I put the hard top back on, I find the occasional spider here and there, because the top sat outside all summer long. This year, there weren’t any…I just figured I must have done a superb job wiping it all down. Then, about two weeks ago, I noticed a little clump of tiny little movers in the back corner…I went in for a closer look, and realized they were baby spiders. Wonderful. So I grabbed a stick, did my best to hook them and their web onto the stick and put them outside. Then I noticed a little white sack up in the corner of the jeep, so I grabbed another stick and scraped it off…when I did that, it broke open and a bunch of little baby spiders fell out (still attached by their webs)…I tried to gather as many up as I could and put them outside…knowing there would probably still be a couple stragglers. Well, on Wednesday, I noticed another little group of them up in the back corner. So, once again, I climbed back there and tried to nicely get them outside…and then noticed there were many more than I anticipated. They were pretty much all over the back of the jeep…kicking it on my emergency kit, around my toolbox, on the back seat. Sigh…so I think I’m going to have to put my good karma at risk and bug bomb the car…yuck.
2. I listened to a great “Stuff You Should Know” podcast…possibly my favorite one yet (though I did very much enjoy “what is a hangover” as well) titled, “How To Survive a Plane Crash”. While I fly fairly frequently, and wouldn’t necessarily say I’m afraid of flying, I definitely am not comfortable with it. So yes, please, tell me how to survive a plane crash. Well, turns out, of all the plane crashes that have happened- 90% of the people survive. What?! It’s because the news really only covers the big, terrible crashes. And most crashes happen during take off and landing, so they aren’t so dramatic. But there’s more…of the crashes that have happened from way up at 30,000 feet, 50% of people survived. That’s fairly reassuring. People always say you are way more likely to get in a car accident than a plane accident, but that never made me feel better, because on the chance you WERE in a plane accident, you were probably a goner…but turns out, not so. A few helpful hints to survival: when you get on the plane, count the number of seats between you and the exit. There is a good chance you will be in the dark or even underwater and you won’t be able to see the exit sign, but you can feel the number of seats. Also, people sitting in the back have a better chance of survival (bummer, I way prefer the front). Wear clothing that covers your body- long sleeves, long pants, tennis shoes, in case of fire. Ummm, what else…that’s all I currently remember- oh, don’t drink alcohol…so there you go…no more fear of flying.
3. I’ve never been an avid American Idol viewer, but somehow I seem to have kept up on this particular season. And there are actually a few of the contestants that I really like. While I don’t think he’ll win the show, or even be around to the very end, I like Andrew Garcia…there is a great video of him on YouTube doing Straight Up…he reminds me of a Jason Mraz when he covers songs…makes them fun with his guitar (which, by the way, my three favs all play guitar…I really like the addition of instruments for the performers). I really like Crystal Bowersox…she performs and you aren’t nervous about her messing up or if she will pick the wrong song…she is great. She did a Janis Joplin song- so great. She has amazing confidence as a performer. But my very fav, and who I’d love to see win, is Lee Dewyze. He has this kind of shy, unsure of himself, nervous feeling each week…and then he goes out and plays his guitar and belts it out…very Ray Lamontagne-ish. Really, really like him.
4. Check out www.dishkarma.com and fill in your ultimate meal…your very favorite restaurant selections for each of the course categories…and check out what other people have picked for their ultimate meals…fun concept…but I warn you, as soon as you log on to enter in your ultimate meal (go do it right now!), your mind will go blank…all those amazing dishes you wish you could enjoy everyday- completely out the window. So think about it ahead of time….and now, go enter them in!
5. I gave up reading the Devil in the White City- for the moment (it was over due at the library), and I just felt like it was such an effort to read. But I got a little bit ambitious with my library holds- and all three became available at the same time…no idea how I will get through them in my three week check out time…but I’ll be doing a lot of reading this weekend. Yesterday I started, and am about halfway through The Sun Also Rises, by Hemingway…I have been wanting to read something of his for a long while, and I am really enjoying it- totally accessible and easy to read. Next, I am going to tackle a long-time-to-read-but-totally-intimidated book- the Brothers Karamozov…I’m afraid I won’t get through it, but I’m going to try my hardest. And then, I have had a couple of people recommend the Count of Monte Cristo..it is unbelievably long, but everyone I’ve talked to that read it, loved it…so I don’t think it will be tough, just long.
Alright…have a great weekend!
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