Whatever happened to Rice Krispies Treats Cereal? Brian gets to hear me ask that question practically every time we go grocery shopping. It is, by far, my favorite cereal of all time and today I was extra troubled by its unexplainable disappearance from store shelves. So I decided it was time to break out the big-guns and crack this case. Enter Google.
Sadly, Google search results disappointingly reported that it's been discontinued. And I'm not the only one who's bummed about it.
All of the children of the 90's are apparently saddened by the loss...
So is Ian Bishop and 294 other members on the "Bring Back Rice Krispie Treat Cereal" facebook page.
But! BUT WAIT! It turns out all of these crybabies are a bunch of SUCKERS, and Google is a big fat liar (that bitch!)
Amazon to the rescue -- only $28.99 for a 4 pack - a steal at $7.25 a box!
Aaaaaand, gotta love Michigan Classic Meijer - at a better price, 2 boxes for $6.36!
The best news of all is I don't have to order my cereal online thanks to the Kellogg's product finder!
Brian and I place a cap on Christmas shopping at $50 since the holidays are stressful enough. Something tells me it will be a very Krispies Christmas! And, I'm okay with that.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Words/Phrases That Irritate Me And My Wacky Rationale To Explain Why
1. "Hubby" -- Every married 20/30-something I know says this. Maybe I'm just jealous?
2. "Kiddo" -- Again, everyone I know with a child under the age of 10 says this. My mom used to call me this. Yep, must be the jealousy again. I have no good reason for this one either.
3. "Stinkin' cute" or derivative thereof, such as "stinkin' adorable" and often used to describe couples, babies, small children, and old people. -- I probably just hate cute people. Especially the ones that smell bad.
4. "Shit show" -- Brian says this a lot. He knows it bugs me. I'm sure he doesn't do it on purpose, like, ever. At least it's not a "stinkin'" shit show...
5. "Tough love" -- My mom used to say this to me in college when I would call home feeling frustrated and wanting to whine. I remember distinctly finally telling her how much I hated that phrase. I still hate it (sorry, Mom!)
6. "I just threw up a little in my mouth" -- Because this is just gross
7. "Plethora" -- Because this is just an annoying thesaurus word
8. "Juxtaposition" -- Because it was highly overused in the film class I took in college. I vowed to never use it in my own writing. According to this post, I've broken my vow.
9. "Angel" to describe a child. As in "She's my angel" or "He is a perfect little angel." IMHO this just increases the odds of your 'kiddo' developing a God complex early on in life (and we already have way too many of those people walking around already) -- Again with the jealousy, eh? I probably just want to buy your baby.*
*Name that reference from a popular 90's comedy now running in syndication. I saw this particular episode tonight on the CW.
2. "Kiddo" -- Again, everyone I know with a child under the age of 10 says this. My mom used to call me this. Yep, must be the jealousy again. I have no good reason for this one either.
3. "Stinkin' cute" or derivative thereof, such as "stinkin' adorable" and often used to describe couples, babies, small children, and old people. -- I probably just hate cute people. Especially the ones that smell bad.
4. "Shit show" -- Brian says this a lot. He knows it bugs me. I'm sure he doesn't do it on purpose, like, ever. At least it's not a "stinkin'" shit show...
5. "Tough love" -- My mom used to say this to me in college when I would call home feeling frustrated and wanting to whine. I remember distinctly finally telling her how much I hated that phrase. I still hate it (sorry, Mom!)
6. "I just threw up a little in my mouth" -- Because this is just gross
7. "Plethora" -- Because this is just an annoying thesaurus word
8. "Juxtaposition" -- Because it was highly overused in the film class I took in college. I vowed to never use it in my own writing. According to this post, I've broken my vow.
9. "Angel" to describe a child. As in "She's my angel" or "He is a perfect little angel." IMHO this just increases the odds of your 'kiddo' developing a God complex early on in life (and we already have way too many of those people walking around already) -- Again with the jealousy, eh? I probably just want to buy your baby.*
*Name that reference from a popular 90's comedy now running in syndication. I saw this particular episode tonight on the CW.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Dress Attire: Texas Snappy Casual
Last week, B and I went to a UT MBA welcome dinner at the famous Salt Lick Bar-B-Que in Driftwood, TX. The Dresscode? Texas Snappy Casual.
WTF?
I googled, I Yahoo searched, I Binged...and it turns out there are absolutely zero (as in none, nada, a big fat goose-egg) results for the phrase "Texas Snappy Casual."
Search Engine FAIL.
As Salt Lick eve neared, I started to get super worried. After all, being the fashionista that I am (hahahah), I would just die if I went to the party wearing the wrong outfit! Thankfully, one of Brian's classmates sent out the following mass email and demystified the Texas Snappy Dress Code for all us Northerners.
Notes On "Texas Snappy Casual"
No one will be turned away, so stop freaking out.
The basic TSC requirement goes something like this: "Wear the tightest, darkest, denim jeans or skirt you can find!" Bonus points will be awarded (by me) for cowboy boots, hats, and belt buckle. The FULL ON TEXAN will have a dress shirt (or blouse) with two pockets, shell buttons, and something dangling off it. If you have any questions about your outfit, please send me a photo at [phone # omitted for privacy].
Here are some examples of "TSC", courtesy of an image of some random buckaroo I found on Bing images, along an image of Miley Cyrus. The "Miley", as I will call it, was a pretty popular version of "TSC" for many of the female attendees.
So. Now y'all know. And now it's time for me to go buy me some boots! Yee Haw!
WTF?
I googled, I Yahoo searched, I Binged...and it turns out there are absolutely zero (as in none, nada, a big fat goose-egg) results for the phrase "Texas Snappy Casual."
Search Engine FAIL.
As Salt Lick eve neared, I started to get super worried. After all, being the fashionista that I am (hahahah), I would just die if I went to the party wearing the wrong outfit! Thankfully, one of Brian's classmates sent out the following mass email and demystified the Texas Snappy Dress Code for all us Northerners.
Notes On "Texas Snappy Casual"
No one will be turned away, so stop freaking out.
The basic TSC requirement goes something like this: "Wear the tightest, darkest, denim jeans or skirt you can find!" Bonus points will be awarded (by me) for cowboy boots, hats, and belt buckle. The FULL ON TEXAN will have a dress shirt (or blouse) with two pockets, shell buttons, and something dangling off it. If you have any questions about your outfit, please send me a photo at [phone # omitted for privacy].
Here are some examples of "TSC", courtesy of an image of some random buckaroo I found on Bing images, along an image of Miley Cyrus. The "Miley", as I will call it, was a pretty popular version of "TSC" for many of the female attendees.
So. Now y'all know. And now it's time for me to go buy me some boots! Yee Haw!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Cocktail Party
Recently, I was asked what my most impressive cocktail party line about myself would be. I was caught with my pants down on that one, and had no idea what to say. Pants down metaphorically. Not literally. I have a lot of weight left to lose before that's going to happen.
Anyway, I've had a bit of time to ponder, and came up with what I think is a range of highly interesting (and of course highly appropriate) factoids about myself to help spark conversation with potential new friends and contacts. They are all true, and now all I have to do is choose the best. Not sure how I'm going to do that- all of these are such winners! Anyway, here goes...
“I can do an impressive wild turkey call.”
“I am fluent in pig-latin.”
“I once played Whirly ball with Jason Mraz...ok, well not him, but his roadies.”
“In 2003, I met Jeff Timmons, member of the boy band 98 degrees, and did you know he is extremely short in real life? ”
“I’ve shared multiple elevator rides with David Copperfield.”
“I once hired an animal psychic to do a reading on my cats.”
“Turns out, my bologna has a first name.”
“I used to be in a band. Marching band.”
“My first CD was ‘The Sign’ by Ace of Base."
“I am known far and wide for my dead-on geese, rat, and giraffe impressions."
“My porn star name is ‘Misty Brookmoor.’ You know, where you combine your first pet’s name with the street you grew up on...hm… ok…never mind.”
“I once spilled a drink on Ryder Strong, of ‘Boy Meets World’ fame.”
“I know people who know people.”
“When I was a kid, I took comp-ed trips to Vegas. That's how I rolled when I was six.”
“I have an ancestor named Benona. No, not ‘Banana’; 'Benona.'”
“I may or may not know all the lyrics to ‘Baby Got Back.’”
“I have an irrational fear of bull sharks. They can survive in fresh water. In fact, there is a documented case of a bull shark that was caught in Lake Michigan. Maybe my fear isn’t so irrational after all, eh?”
“I’m a forceps baby.”
“Wanna hear me crack my jaw?”
Anyway, I've had a bit of time to ponder, and came up with what I think is a range of highly interesting (and of course highly appropriate) factoids about myself to help spark conversation with potential new friends and contacts. They are all true, and now all I have to do is choose the best. Not sure how I'm going to do that- all of these are such winners! Anyway, here goes...
“I can do an impressive wild turkey call.”
“I am fluent in pig-latin.”
“I once played Whirly ball with Jason Mraz...ok, well not him, but his roadies.”
“In 2003, I met Jeff Timmons, member of the boy band 98 degrees, and did you know he is extremely short in real life? ”
“I’ve shared multiple elevator rides with David Copperfield.”
“I once hired an animal psychic to do a reading on my cats.”
“Turns out, my bologna has a first name.”
“I used to be in a band. Marching band.”
“My first CD was ‘The Sign’ by Ace of Base."
“I am known far and wide for my dead-on geese, rat, and giraffe impressions."
“My porn star name is ‘Misty Brookmoor.’ You know, where you combine your first pet’s name with the street you grew up on...hm… ok…never mind.”
“I once spilled a drink on Ryder Strong, of ‘Boy Meets World’ fame.”
“I know people who know people.”
“When I was a kid, I took comp-ed trips to Vegas. That's how I rolled when I was six.”
“I have an ancestor named Benona. No, not ‘Banana’; 'Benona.'”
“I may or may not know all the lyrics to ‘Baby Got Back.’”
“I have an irrational fear of bull sharks. They can survive in fresh water. In fact, there is a documented case of a bull shark that was caught in Lake Michigan. Maybe my fear isn’t so irrational after all, eh?”
“I’m a forceps baby.”
“Wanna hear me crack my jaw?”
Monday, July 5, 2010
B Started a Blog...
...and his most recent post is titled What Awaits in Austin, Part1. Hard to believe that in less than 3 weeks from today, I'll be an Austin resident!
Chicago, I'll miss you but...I'm SO READY to see what Austin has to offer!
Chicago, I'll miss you but...I'm SO READY to see what Austin has to offer!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Austin BATS
I am so excited (also somewhat terrified) that B and I will live near the Bat Bridge when we move to Austin!
Check it out:
http://www.austincityguide.com/content/congress-bridge-bats-austin.asp
Check it out:
http://www.austincityguide.com/content/congress-bridge-bats-austin.asp
Sunday, June 20, 2010
The news that's not really news
So...big news - I think everyone knows by now. I'm moving with Brian to Austin Texas one month from today. V. excited and nervous - I've heard great things about Austin...though I've never actually been there and am moving there sight unseen. Good thing I have a strong sense of adventure!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Bursting
I have news! Sort of! It's still unfolding...and right now I'm just keeping a good thought for how it will all turn out. Because it could be pretty fantastic. And...I don't want to say anything else about it until it's more "real" and locked in stone. But, I want to stir up some positive energy from the universe, hence this teasy little post that...I have news! Sort of!
I'm so behind on the regular update-y aspects of my 20-10-30 space. So...here's the short version. I'm behind on my mileage. Almost at 100 miles. Hoping to be past 150 by the end of May...which will still put me 100 miles behind where I should be. That's ok, I'm still going to go for my 500 mile goal. I ran 5 miles yesterday, and felt great. I'm also behind on my weightloss. I was at-15 at the end of March. I'm now at -10 total. So...back on the horse. Weight has always been a struggle for me...but I'm still trying.
As far as the April update...as you know from post previous, I'm older/wiser. In celebration of my 30th, Brian, Erin, Clint and I lived it up in VEGAS baby, which included great meals (including uber trendy Tao), great entertainment (including Cirque du Soleil and a trip to Hoover Dam), and great weather (we spent a loooot of time on the Lazy River @ the MGM grand). And, When I came home, I had an amazing post-birthday weekend (dinner w/ friends at Las Tablas, drinks @ Merkles, and a Cubbies game that Sunday - with a win!).
This whole year has been such a roller coaster...but I just can't help having positive feelings for the news! Sort of! That I am excited to share...soon...and stay tuned!
I'm so behind on the regular update-y aspects of my 20-10-30 space. So...here's the short version. I'm behind on my mileage. Almost at 100 miles. Hoping to be past 150 by the end of May...which will still put me 100 miles behind where I should be. That's ok, I'm still going to go for my 500 mile goal. I ran 5 miles yesterday, and felt great. I'm also behind on my weightloss. I was at-15 at the end of March. I'm now at -10 total. So...back on the horse. Weight has always been a struggle for me...but I'm still trying.
As far as the April update...as you know from post previous, I'm older/wiser. In celebration of my 30th, Brian, Erin, Clint and I lived it up in VEGAS baby, which included great meals (including uber trendy Tao), great entertainment (including Cirque du Soleil and a trip to Hoover Dam), and great weather (we spent a loooot of time on the Lazy River @ the MGM grand). And, When I came home, I had an amazing post-birthday weekend (dinner w/ friends at Las Tablas, drinks @ Merkles, and a Cubbies game that Sunday - with a win!).
This whole year has been such a roller coaster...but I just can't help having positive feelings for the news! Sort of! That I am excited to share...soon...and stay tuned!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Undone. Revolution.
I have an idea. And it could revolutionize our entire way of life. For the better. And it's simple.
Let's all show each other a little respect, a little sensitivity, a little empathy, a little decency.
Let's open our eyes and see.
The world is lot bigger than $/power/fame/you or me alone.
Let's all show each other a little respect, a little sensitivity, a little empathy, a little decency.
Let's open our eyes and see.
The world is lot bigger than $/power/fame/you or me alone.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Dirty Thirty
I've officially joined the club (as of 4/27). Happy Birthday to me.
Now upgrading to Molly 3.0.
Now upgrading to Molly 3.0.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Trifecta
Coffee. Diet Coke. A Donut (formerly two...one has already been....taken care of).
That's what sits in front of me at my desk at the barely 8:00 hour on this fine Wednesday morning.
Stressy? Who, me?
This jolty sugar/caffeine infused trifecta is certainly not the healthiest way to deal with the stress-that-shall-not-be-discussed-for-the-time-being, but it's the best I can do today.
Oh Jesus, Take the Wheel. Amen.
That's what sits in front of me at my desk at the barely 8:00 hour on this fine Wednesday morning.
Stressy? Who, me?
This jolty sugar/caffeine infused trifecta is certainly not the healthiest way to deal with the stress-that-shall-not-be-discussed-for-the-time-being, but it's the best I can do today.
Oh Jesus, Take the Wheel. Amen.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Flip/Turned/Upside Down
My whole life has been one big (shit) sack of surprises (ok not fair, definitely a mix of manure and roses though). And along the way, I've realized how much I (mostly) hate surprises (unless those surprises are carefully inspired from a pre-fabricated, Molly-approved list). But, after years of therapy, I've gotten much better at coping with the unexpected, and if it's possible to factor surprises into my innate need to constantly plan ahead, then that's what I try to do, that is to say, expect the unexpected.
Sometimes I feel like my life is a tragic dramedy sitcom...I bet my collection of life experiences might be stranger than most...even though to most it seems like I probably have a pretty normal upbringing and display a fairly grounded self.
If my life were, in fact, a tragic dramedy sitcom, it might resemble bits and pieces of the following: Weeds, Modern Family, My So Called Life, Allie McBeal, Midwest Forecast Local On the Eights (yeah, from the Weather Channel and its abounding thrills - don't hate), Once and Again, Ugly Betty, and Criminal Minds. OK, I'm kidding on the Criminal Minds part. But, take several character arches and plot curves from the other shows, blend vigorously, throw in some added dysfunction, a pinch of political upheaval, and a heavy dose of cynicism and plenty of eye rolling hardy har har sarcasm, and something like that will resemble something like me and my life.
Looks can be deceiving. If I ever get around to writing an autobio...well, the judgment you may have passed on my book's cover may prove to be completely false...
Every time I turn around, I'm faced with another unexpected surprise or challenge. At 29 (and holy shit, almost 30), I am no where near resembling the regimented suburbia baby maker/housewife that scares me so (and yet I sometimes envy). I have yet to figure out settling down bit...and it doesn't look like that's going to happen for at least a few more years.
On a semi-related note, it's weird what details stick with you over the years. When I was 18, our high school "grad bash" included a palm reader. My "fortune" was vague (shocker), but I remember explicitly that the palm reader said my life would basically remain in a state of chaos for the next 15 years (wow, you mean my 20's are going to be full of twists and turns? Again, color me shocked). So...Right-o....only 3 years to go according to the palm reader...and I'm definitely more ready for the suburbia-calm family life than I may outwardly project (but definitely not there yet).
But, until then, the surprises just keep coming. Whether I like them or not.
Sometimes I feel like my life is a tragic dramedy sitcom...I bet my collection of life experiences might be stranger than most...even though to most it seems like I probably have a pretty normal upbringing and display a fairly grounded self.
If my life were, in fact, a tragic dramedy sitcom, it might resemble bits and pieces of the following: Weeds, Modern Family, My So Called Life, Allie McBeal, Midwest Forecast Local On the Eights (yeah, from the Weather Channel and its abounding thrills - don't hate), Once and Again, Ugly Betty, and Criminal Minds. OK, I'm kidding on the Criminal Minds part. But, take several character arches and plot curves from the other shows, blend vigorously, throw in some added dysfunction, a pinch of political upheaval, and a heavy dose of cynicism and plenty of eye rolling hardy har har sarcasm, and something like that will resemble something like me and my life.
Looks can be deceiving. If I ever get around to writing an autobio...well, the judgment you may have passed on my book's cover may prove to be completely false...
Every time I turn around, I'm faced with another unexpected surprise or challenge. At 29 (and holy shit, almost 30), I am no where near resembling the regimented suburbia baby maker/housewife that scares me so (and yet I sometimes envy). I have yet to figure out settling down bit...and it doesn't look like that's going to happen for at least a few more years.
On a semi-related note, it's weird what details stick with you over the years. When I was 18, our high school "grad bash" included a palm reader. My "fortune" was vague (shocker), but I remember explicitly that the palm reader said my life would basically remain in a state of chaos for the next 15 years (wow, you mean my 20's are going to be full of twists and turns? Again, color me shocked). So...Right-o....only 3 years to go according to the palm reader...and I'm definitely more ready for the suburbia-calm family life than I may outwardly project (but definitely not there yet).
But, until then, the surprises just keep coming. Whether I like them or not.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
(Almost) The Ides of March
February update is long overdue, here it is - along with some March thrown in.
Weight loss: Another 5 lbs shed in February - for a total of 15 lbs gone.
Running: Not the best in Feb (and sneak preview - won't be great in March either...) But, I knocked out a total of 31.2 miles in Feb for a grand total of 65.4 miles in in 2010 as of the end of February. For the record, I've only run 4 miles so far in March. I've been battered by colds this season (3 in total), and work has been such a drain on me lately. Excuses though, right...back on the horse, giddyup.
Work: no comment.
Personal: a blur, clouded by work, by the waiting game, by health issues.
All in all, not an award-winning month, I was happy to put it behind me...and frankly March has come in like a lion, so I can only hope the out-like-a-lamb bit holds true. This month I continue to log long and draining days at work, struggle with ongoing health issues that I can't quite shake, wait in limbo for life changing news, deal with drama at home (a burst pipe and some major water damage), cater to a sick and stinky feline (not Timmy, surprisingly)...And all these little battles are sucking the fighting spirit right out of me. At this point, the only option I have is...well, I guess...to NOT fight life so much, and just accept that shit happens. I'm holding onto the hope that the load of fertilizer that has been shoveled my way lately will result in dozens of big, fat roses - and fast.
On the good side, I have a new doctor and a new medication that I am hopeful will bring me some relief. Also my sister came to Chicago for a visit this weekend, and my good friend Heather too, so double bonus. And, I was on the winning flip cup team at yesterday's St Patty's day festivities (still got it, after all these years - heh). These are all small, but important victories....keep 'em coming please, I'm ready for the scale to tip in a more positive direction.
Weight loss: Another 5 lbs shed in February - for a total of 15 lbs gone.
Running: Not the best in Feb (and sneak preview - won't be great in March either...) But, I knocked out a total of 31.2 miles in Feb for a grand total of 65.4 miles in in 2010 as of the end of February. For the record, I've only run 4 miles so far in March. I've been battered by colds this season (3 in total), and work has been such a drain on me lately. Excuses though, right...back on the horse, giddyup.
Work: no comment.
Personal: a blur, clouded by work, by the waiting game, by health issues.
All in all, not an award-winning month, I was happy to put it behind me...and frankly March has come in like a lion, so I can only hope the out-like-a-lamb bit holds true. This month I continue to log long and draining days at work, struggle with ongoing health issues that I can't quite shake, wait in limbo for life changing news, deal with drama at home (a burst pipe and some major water damage), cater to a sick and stinky feline (not Timmy, surprisingly)...And all these little battles are sucking the fighting spirit right out of me. At this point, the only option I have is...well, I guess...to NOT fight life so much, and just accept that shit happens. I'm holding onto the hope that the load of fertilizer that has been shoveled my way lately will result in dozens of big, fat roses - and fast.
On the good side, I have a new doctor and a new medication that I am hopeful will bring me some relief. Also my sister came to Chicago for a visit this weekend, and my good friend Heather too, so double bonus. And, I was on the winning flip cup team at yesterday's St Patty's day festivities (still got it, after all these years - heh). These are all small, but important victories....keep 'em coming please, I'm ready for the scale to tip in a more positive direction.
Monday, March 8, 2010
So...a guy walked into a bar...
I did dishes tonight...and sometimes I SWEAR those dishes multiply, almost like they are procreating in the sink.
It must be because they are so DIRTY DIRTY!
OMG I crack myself up! I totally made that joke up this weekend! hahahahaaaa, funny funny me!
It must be because they are so DIRTY DIRTY!
OMG I crack myself up! I totally made that joke up this weekend! hahahahaaaa, funny funny me!
Confession
I logged into Facebook today (that which was given up for Lent).
I logged on in order to de-link my blog from my FB account and that is it. I mean, if someone wants to find this blog, well fine then, they will likely find it. But, I'd rather remove the direct connect to feel slightly less exposed, even if it's just a superficial bandaid fix.
If feeling exposed is such a concern, well then why don't I just keep a private journal on the nightstand, and ohhhhh, I don't know...not publish it on the web?
Valid question.
Is "to feel an anonymous connection" an acceptable enough response? Or is it an oxymoron? Or does it sound a little kinky? Or maybe it sounds trite?
Yes. No. No, gutterball. I don't care.
I logged on in order to de-link my blog from my FB account and that is it. I mean, if someone wants to find this blog, well fine then, they will likely find it. But, I'd rather remove the direct connect to feel slightly less exposed, even if it's just a superficial bandaid fix.
If feeling exposed is such a concern, well then why don't I just keep a private journal on the nightstand, and ohhhhh, I don't know...not publish it on the web?
Valid question.
Is "to feel an anonymous connection" an acceptable enough response? Or is it an oxymoron? Or does it sound a little kinky? Or maybe it sounds trite?
Yes. No. No, gutterball. I don't care.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Facebook Free For Forty Days
In case you haven't seen my Facebook profile announcement (posted on Mardi Gras, I think), I've given up Facebook for Lent.
I wasn't on Facebook every waking moment or anything, but I was on it enough (a morning Blackberry check on the train, a lunch time brain drain on the laptop, that sort of thing) that it was becoming an unhealthy distraction. I would read a few status updates in my newsfeed and I would think "why the fuck are you telling this to the world?" And then I would be annoyed by it. And then I would be minorly embarrassed by my annoyance, because, really, if a rando-acquaintence feels the need to tell her 400 FB friends that "OMG, my wedding is only 86 days away! I can't wait to be Mrs. Divorcedinoneyeariwouldbetmoneyonit!" then why should that really affect me in any way? And who am I to rain on rando's parade? A wedding is an exciting, once (typically) in a lifetime experience, so shouldn't that be worth a little horn tooting?
I've hidden a lot of the most dull/self-promoting/sympathy-baiter/etc of my "frends" (i use loosely, because I have somehow acquired something like 390 friends, and I'm pretty sure I don't even know 390 people -- but that's what happens when you work for large companies, or your high school or college reunion sneaks up and old friends come crawling out of the woodwork), but every so often, an undesirable friend update creeps through and inexplicably succeeds at irking me.
I think it will be a good cleansing experience to rid myself of the FB distraction for a little bit. Oh, and in case you're reading this post as a note on my FB page, it's because my blog (twentytenthirty.blogspot.com) imports automatically to my FB account. So no, I promise you I am not a hypocrite and did not log on to FB to write this.
I wasn't on Facebook every waking moment or anything, but I was on it enough (a morning Blackberry check on the train, a lunch time brain drain on the laptop, that sort of thing) that it was becoming an unhealthy distraction. I would read a few status updates in my newsfeed and I would think "why the fuck are you telling this to the world?" And then I would be annoyed by it. And then I would be minorly embarrassed by my annoyance, because, really, if a rando-acquaintence feels the need to tell her 400 FB friends that "OMG, my wedding is only 86 days away! I can't wait to be Mrs. Divorcedinoneyeariwouldbetmoneyonit!" then why should that really affect me in any way? And who am I to rain on rando's parade? A wedding is an exciting, once (typically) in a lifetime experience, so shouldn't that be worth a little horn tooting?
I've hidden a lot of the most dull/self-promoting/sympathy-baiter/etc of my "frends" (i use loosely, because I have somehow acquired something like 390 friends, and I'm pretty sure I don't even know 390 people -- but that's what happens when you work for large companies, or your high school or college reunion sneaks up and old friends come crawling out of the woodwork), but every so often, an undesirable friend update creeps through and inexplicably succeeds at irking me.
I think it will be a good cleansing experience to rid myself of the FB distraction for a little bit. Oh, and in case you're reading this post as a note on my FB page, it's because my blog (twentytenthirty.blogspot.com) imports automatically to my FB account. So no, I promise you I am not a hypocrite and did not log on to FB to write this.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
"Boring" to you....but "Bliss" to me.
I got up at 7:45 this morning.
Then I hit the gym for some boxing, core training, and mill running.
Then I showered.
Then I ate my burrito leftovers from last night's dinner at Fernando's with Brian.
Then I took a 3 hour nap (oh, how I needed the sleep).
Then I finished a few more chapters of Water for Elephants (I can already tell I'm going to consider it among my favorites once I finish it).
Then I watched an On Demand chick flick (Love Happens...did not really keep my attn).
Now I'm listening to Emancipator on Pandora (I'm on an electronica/chillout/smooth beats kick right now - the music reminds me of my life an expat in London, and that was a goood life)
While I listen, I'm writing about my perfectly quiet and refreshing day.
Once I'm done with this, I'll read a few more chapters from my book and fall asleep with my kitties curled up at the foot of the bed.
I love days like this.
Then I hit the gym for some boxing, core training, and mill running.
Then I showered.
Then I ate my burrito leftovers from last night's dinner at Fernando's with Brian.
Then I took a 3 hour nap (oh, how I needed the sleep).
Then I finished a few more chapters of Water for Elephants (I can already tell I'm going to consider it among my favorites once I finish it).
Then I watched an On Demand chick flick (Love Happens...did not really keep my attn).
Now I'm listening to Emancipator on Pandora (I'm on an electronica/chillout/smooth beats kick right now - the music reminds me of my life an expat in London, and that was a goood life)
While I listen, I'm writing about my perfectly quiet and refreshing day.
Once I'm done with this, I'll read a few more chapters from my book and fall asleep with my kitties curled up at the foot of the bed.
I love days like this.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
January 2010 - Status Update
I'm ecstatic to report that I lost 10 POUNDS in January, which means I'm already half way to the 20 lb weight loss goal I set for myself. B and I are planning a trip to Vegas with my sister and her husband in celebration of my 30th birthday at the end of April, and I was really hoping to drop the weight before then --I guess I just need to keep up the good work and I'll achieve my goal ahead of schedule (pat on the back for me, and a little toot toot! beep beep!)
For those who may be curious about how I managed to shed 10 lbs in a month, I'm taking a casual, yet very focused approach to my weight loss in terms of eating. I'm not counting calories, I'm not keeping a food journal -- none of that tiresome and time consuming tracking BS. I've tracked my food intake to a T in the past (and hated doing it), so I already have a pretty good sense of my weaknesses and what I need to work on. Instead, I'm paying more attention to labels and portion sizes, I'm eating more fresh foods, and I'm cooking more/eating out less -- and trying to prepare meals for the week on Sundays if I can (so I don't gorge when I get home from late during the week -- which is most nights). This month, I tried out 2 new recipes, including a low fat beef stroganoff and a Mexican chicken salad from "The Busy People's Low Fat Cookbook" that my mom got me last year for Christmas (thanks, Mom!) I love this cookbook because all the recipes are super easy -- 7 ingredients or less! I made the stroganoff twice this past month (probably won't make the chicken salad again though...).
In terms of working out, my new year's resolution to run 500 miles has been a big motivator. In January, I managed to fit in 10 runs averaging about 3.4 miles each, for a total of 34.2 miles. Only 465.8 miles to go - heh! I need to run an average of about 42 miles/month to achieve my goal, and although I was a bit short this month, I'm still very pleased. For starters, I had a killer sinus infection earlier this month, which kept me cooped up and not working out for about a week (and hello! I still managed 10 runs!). And more importantly, I expect my monthly running numbers to resemble a bell curve when all is said and done -- much heavier mileage in the spring/summer months when I'm training for longer races and feel more comfortable running outside, and lighter mileage in the winter/late fall months when I'm treadmilling it. That said, I think I'm actually ahead of schedule!
On top of running, I've reinvested my efforts in boxing class on Saturday mornings. It's exhausting and demanding, and on multiple occasions, I've felt nauseous and faint (sounds fun, right?). But I'm definitely getting better and stronger. Oh, it hurts so goooood!
Basically, in January I focused on kickstarting the health/fitness, alongside all the other new year's lemmings. The difference, however, is that I've been pretty successful and am sticking with it! Let's see, other than working out, it was pretty low key in Jan. Brian and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary with a classic date night of dinner and a movie (which was actually spread out over 2 different nights b/c after our dinner at Select Cut, I was tired and not feeling much like a late movie, so we rented a movie instead and went to see "Up in the Air" at the theater the following weekend). Brian also sent me some beautiful flowers on our anniversary. Of course, I photographed them, and eventually I'll post pictures to show them off (for those that don't know, I have a fascination with taking photos of flowers). I also saw "Dream Girls" as a part of Broadway in Chicago with my girlfriends, and it's definitely in the top 10 faves in terms of musical I've seen. And, I finished off an uplifting memoir -- "Highest Duty" by Captain Sully Sullenberger. It was a timely read because it was one year ago this past January that Captain Sullenburger and hist crew safely landed the plane in the Hudson with 100% survival rate. If you want a quick, easy read that boosts your spirits and restores your faith in humanity, then I recommend you check out that book.
So, that's Jan 2010. In many ways, 2010 is off to a good start. I've been feeling blah lately (I blame it in part on the soul-crushing Chicago winter), but reflecting on the past month has reminded me that life is actually pretty good. So...I believe thanks to my man JC are in order, and I'll try to appreciate what I have instead of lamenting what I haven't. Amen to that!
For those who may be curious about how I managed to shed 10 lbs in a month, I'm taking a casual, yet very focused approach to my weight loss in terms of eating. I'm not counting calories, I'm not keeping a food journal -- none of that tiresome and time consuming tracking BS. I've tracked my food intake to a T in the past (and hated doing it), so I already have a pretty good sense of my weaknesses and what I need to work on. Instead, I'm paying more attention to labels and portion sizes, I'm eating more fresh foods, and I'm cooking more/eating out less -- and trying to prepare meals for the week on Sundays if I can (so I don't gorge when I get home from late during the week -- which is most nights). This month, I tried out 2 new recipes, including a low fat beef stroganoff and a Mexican chicken salad from "The Busy People's Low Fat Cookbook" that my mom got me last year for Christmas (thanks, Mom!) I love this cookbook because all the recipes are super easy -- 7 ingredients or less! I made the stroganoff twice this past month (probably won't make the chicken salad again though...).
In terms of working out, my new year's resolution to run 500 miles has been a big motivator. In January, I managed to fit in 10 runs averaging about 3.4 miles each, for a total of 34.2 miles. Only 465.8 miles to go - heh! I need to run an average of about 42 miles/month to achieve my goal, and although I was a bit short this month, I'm still very pleased. For starters, I had a killer sinus infection earlier this month, which kept me cooped up and not working out for about a week (and hello! I still managed 10 runs!). And more importantly, I expect my monthly running numbers to resemble a bell curve when all is said and done -- much heavier mileage in the spring/summer months when I'm training for longer races and feel more comfortable running outside, and lighter mileage in the winter/late fall months when I'm treadmilling it. That said, I think I'm actually ahead of schedule!
On top of running, I've reinvested my efforts in boxing class on Saturday mornings. It's exhausting and demanding, and on multiple occasions, I've felt nauseous and faint (sounds fun, right?). But I'm definitely getting better and stronger. Oh, it hurts so goooood!
Basically, in January I focused on kickstarting the health/fitness, alongside all the other new year's lemmings. The difference, however, is that I've been pretty successful and am sticking with it! Let's see, other than working out, it was pretty low key in Jan. Brian and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary with a classic date night of dinner and a movie (which was actually spread out over 2 different nights b/c after our dinner at Select Cut, I was tired and not feeling much like a late movie, so we rented a movie instead and went to see "Up in the Air" at the theater the following weekend). Brian also sent me some beautiful flowers on our anniversary. Of course, I photographed them, and eventually I'll post pictures to show them off (for those that don't know, I have a fascination with taking photos of flowers). I also saw "Dream Girls" as a part of Broadway in Chicago with my girlfriends, and it's definitely in the top 10 faves in terms of musical I've seen. And, I finished off an uplifting memoir -- "Highest Duty" by Captain Sully Sullenberger. It was a timely read because it was one year ago this past January that Captain Sullenburger and hist crew safely landed the plane in the Hudson with 100% survival rate. If you want a quick, easy read that boosts your spirits and restores your faith in humanity, then I recommend you check out that book.
So, that's Jan 2010. In many ways, 2010 is off to a good start. I've been feeling blah lately (I blame it in part on the soul-crushing Chicago winter), but reflecting on the past month has reminded me that life is actually pretty good. So...I believe thanks to my man JC are in order, and I'll try to appreciate what I have instead of lamenting what I haven't. Amen to that!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Hey Hot Stuff - What are you doing on Feb 8/9th?
I volunteer with an organization called Upwardly Global, which is a nonprofit organization that helps highly-skilled immigrants, refugees and asylees reclaim their careers here in the
Currently, Upwardly global is seeking volunteers for its career summit this February 8th and 9th. For details, see below. If you're interested and able to volunteer, please let me know by EOD Wednesday, January 20.
Thank you for considering this opportunity, and let me know if have any questions.
Also –
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY – UPWARDLY GLOBAL
Seeking volunteers for our upcoming career Summit in Chicago
| What: Career |
This two-day conference is a chance for immigrant jobseekers to work with volunteers on one-on-one resume development and interview practice, as well as industry roundtables and networking. After the event, jobseekers continue on with Upwardly Global to access job skills coaching, assistance with applying for jobs and placement into professional positions. Join us and make a big difference for an immigrant jobseeker.
| Job | Time Commitment | Description |
| Resume Developers | 12:00PM - 5:00PM Monday, February 8th | Resume developers attend a short training on how to work with immigrant professionals to create an American-style resume. Volunteers are matched with an immigrant jobseeker to help him/her create a concise, clear polished resume. Volunteers will be asked to bring a laptop computer if they have one. If not, a computer will be provided. |
| Mock Interviewers | 12:00PM - 2:45PM Tuesday, | Mock Interviewers attend a brief volunteer orientation before giving one practice interview to an immigrant jobseeker. Volunteers provide valuable feedback for jobseekers upon the completion of the mock interview. The session concludes with a guided 30 minutes of networking with jobseekers to help build their skills and professional network. This is a great corporate volunteer activity for groups. |
IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING , PLEASE EMAIL ME, CALL ME, OR MESSAGE ME ON FACEBOOK
· The date you can volunteer (Resume developers on 2/8/10, Mock interviewers on 2/9/10)
· Name
· Job title
· Email
· Phone
· Can you bring your laptop to the session (resume developer volunteers)? yes/no
PLEASE ONLY VOLUNTEER IF YOU CAN 100% PROMISE TO COMMIT. Because volunteers are matched to job seeking candidates, if a volunteer does not show up, then a candidate is left in the cold. Thank you for understanding.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
2010
New Year, new home.
For anyone who may be curious, the archives are still housed on myspace
"It's like this, It's like that" was taken already on the Blogger platform, so sadly I had to change the name of my blog. The new title - "Twenty Ten Thirty" - represents the new year and the age I will turn in just under 4 months. No, it's not particularly deep or insightful, but the old name wasn't either (see the Myspace posts from early Feb '08 for the "It's like this" explanation, and you'll get what I mean).
I have one resolution for the year - run 500 miles. I have a feeling I'm accomplish more than that single goal, though (lots of changes in the works). Time, patience, perseverance, and hard work will tell that story...I'm excited to see how it unfolds!
For anyone who may be curious, the archives are still housed on myspace
"It's like this, It's like that" was taken already on the Blogger platform, so sadly I had to change the name of my blog. The new title - "Twenty Ten Thirty" - represents the new year and the age I will turn in just under 4 months. No, it's not particularly deep or insightful, but the old name wasn't either (see the Myspace posts from early Feb '08 for the "It's like this" explanation, and you'll get what I mean).
I have one resolution for the year - run 500 miles. I have a feeling I'm accomplish more than that single goal, though (lots of changes in the works). Time, patience, perseverance, and hard work will tell that story...I'm excited to see how it unfolds!
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