Mairzydoats

Egg in a Hole with Broiled Tomatoes

2011-01-17T14:11:00.001-06:00

* 2 slices whole-grain bread
* 4 tsp olive oil
* 2 large eggs
* Kosher salt and black pepper
* 2 medium tomatoes, halved
* 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan

Recipe Preparation
1. Heat broiler. Brush one side of each slice of bread with 1/2 tsp of the oil. Using a round cookie cutter or drinking glass, cut a 2 1/2- to 3-in. hole in the center of each slice of bread, reserving the cutout pieces.

2. Heat 2 tsp of the remaining oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the bread and cutouts, oiled side up, in skillet and cook until undersides are crisp, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip; crack 1 egg into each hole. Season with 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper, and cook, covered, to desired doneness, 2 to 3 minutes for runny yolks.

3. Meanwhile, place the tomatoes cut-side up on a broilerproof baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining tsp oil and sprinkle with 1/8 tsp each salt and pepper. Broil until tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Serve with the eggs and sprinkle with the Parmesan.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 253
Total Fat 16 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 214 mg
Sodium 465 mg
Total Carbohydrate 17 g
Dietary Fiber 3 g
Protein 12 g

Pan Roasted Steak Dinner

2010-09-21T19:53:00.002-05:00

1 lb well-trimmed boneless beef sirloin steak, 1 inch
1/2 c light Catalina dressing, divided
1/2 tsp pepper
1 small red onion
3 c small broccoli florets
1 1/2 c very thinly sliced carrots (4 large)
1 1/2 c brown minute rice

Place steak in ziploc. Pour 1/4 c of catalina over steak; refrigerate at least 30 mins to marinate

Preheat over to 400. Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; heat on medium-hot until hot. Remove steak from bag. Place steak in hot skillet; sprinkle with pepper. Place onions around steak. Cook 3 mins or until bottom of steak is well browned. Turn steak over; remove form heat. Combine broccoli, carrots, and remaining catalina; mix with onions. Wrap handle of skillet in heavy duty foil. Place skillet in oven.

Bake 18 to 20 mins or until steak is cooked to medium doneness (10F). meanwhile, prepare rice as directed on box. Cut steak across grain into thin slices; transfer to serving plates. Spoon vegetable mixture over steak, serve with rice.

Mini Ham & Cheese Calzones appetizer

2010-09-21T19:45:00.002-05:00

1 can (11 oz) refrigerated soft breadstick dough
1/2 c Kraft Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
12 sliced shaved honey ham, cut in half
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400. Unroll dough; separate into 12 breadsticks. Cut each breadstick crosswise in half; flatten dough to 2 inch width.

Spoon 1 tsp cheese onto center of a ham piece. Fold ha piece over cheese to create a tight roll. Place ham roll near the end of a piee of breadstick dough, leaving a border.

Fold dough over ham, pinching edges to seal. Repeast process for all ham pieces. Place calzones on baking sheet. Sprinkle with permesan cheese.
Bake 12 to 15 mins or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Makes 24. Serve with ranch dressing or honey dijon mustard.

Stove Top Easy Chicken Bake

2010-09-21T19:31:00.002-05:00

1 pkg (6 oz) Stove Top for chicken
1 c hot water
1 1/2 lb boneless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
1 can condensed chicken soup
1 bag frozen mixed vegetables (thawed)

Preheat oven to 400. Sprinkle 1/2 c of the stuffing mix evenly on bottom of a 13 x 9pan. In another dish, add hot H2O to remaining mix until moist.

Place chicken over dry mix in pan. Mix soup, sour cream, and veggies. Spoon over chicken. Top with stuffing. Cook 30 mins at 400.

Updated Fettucine Carbonara

2010-09-21T19:13:00.002-05:00

1/2 lb (8oz) fettucine, dry
1 c frozen peas
1/4 light cream cheese spread
1/4 c light classic caesar dressing
1 tbsp flour
1 c milk
1 pkg (6 oz) smoked ham, cut into short strips
1/4 c chopped fresh parsley
3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Cook pasta as directed, adding peas for the last 3 mins of cooking time. Meanwhile, beat cream cheese spread, dressing, and four in a small saucepan with a wire whisk until blended. gradually add milk, stirring constantly until mixture is well blended.

Add ham; cook on medium-low--heat 5 mins or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Drain fettucine mixture; return to saucepan.

Add sauce misture; mix lightly. Cook an addtional 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Top with parsley; sprinke with cheese

Roast Pork with Fruit

2010-09-21T19:10:00.002-05:00

1 medium onion, sliced
2 lb pork roast
8oz (1 1/2 c) dried big fruit
1/2 c apple juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Place onion in slow cooker. Place pork on onion. Top with fruit.

Mix other ingredients, pour over fruit.

Oven Chicken Salad

2010-09-21T19:05:00.002-05:00

2 c cooked chicken, cubed 1/2 inch
2 c celery, thinly sliced
2 c 1-inch bread cubed, toasted
1 c light mayo
1 c shredded chaddar cheese
1/2 c shredded toasted almonds
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp minced onion
1/2 tsp salt

Heat over to 400. Spray a 2 - 2 1/2 quart oval baking dish with non-stick spray. combine chicken and celery, 1 c of the bread cubes, the mayo, 1/2 c of the cheese, the almonds, lemon juice, onion, and salt. Spoon into the dish.

Top with the remainder of the bread. Bake for 20 mins at 400.

My mama's meatloaf

2010-09-21T19:00:00.002-05:00

Makes 3 small, 2 medium, or 1 large

3 lbs ground beef
1/3 c plus 2 tbsp plain bread crumbs
2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 c milk
1 large egg
2 tbsp dehydrated onion

Beat egg in a 2 cup measure or small bowl and add milk and onion. Mix in bread crumbs.

In the pan you're going to bake in, mix in the above mixture to the meat. Smoosh with your hands and shape into the loaf(s) you want. When you shape the loaves, then run your finger down the long middle to make a slight dent and drizzle ketchup into the indentation.

Bake at 350 until meat is firm (poke with a fork or knife to test firmness).

1 = 1.5 hours
2 = 1 hour
3 = 1 hour

Rob's Guacamole

2010-09-21T18:54:00.002-05:00

2 avocados
1 clove garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
1/4 small white onion, chopped and rinsed
1/3 medium tomato, diced
1 jalapeno, stemmed/seeded/diced

scoop out avocados, removing stem bottom. Smash garlic in it paper shell to remove it, then finely chop it up and add it to the avocados.

Smash avocados with a fork until mashed.

Add cilantro, lime juice, onion, and jalapeno. Mix well. Gently fold in tomatoes.

Taco Seasoning

2010-09-21T18:51:00.002-05:00

1 tbsp chili powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Salt
Pepper

Devil's Food Cake

2010-09-21T18:45:00.002-05:00

2 1/4 c all purpose flour
1/2 c unsweetened coca powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 c shortening
1 3/4 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
3 eggs
1 1/3 c cold H2O

Grease and lightly flour a muffin pan or mold of your choice. If using oven safe mugs, grease botom and halfway up the sides. Set aside.

Stir together flur, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat shortening with an electric mixer on medium to high for 30 sec. Add sugar adn vanilla, beat until well combined, Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add flour mixture and water alternatively to beaten mixzture, beating on low after each addition, just until combined. Pour batter nito mold until half full.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for 25 to 30 minutses for mugs, 20 to 25 mins for muffin cups.

Maks 20 to 24 cupcakes.

Pie Crust

2010-09-21T18:44:00.000-05:00

1 c flour
1/3 plus 1 tbsp fat
3 tbsp ice water

Makes 1 crust

Cream Sauce

2010-09-21T18:42:00.001-05:00

1/2 stick of butter
2 tbsp flour
2 c milk

Melt butter in a sauce pan. Slowly ad in flour, stirring so it stays smooth. Add milk gradually while stirring.

SOTD: Let It Rock, Kevin Rudolf

2009-01-11T12:03:00.002-06:00

This song keeps begging me to open the sun roof....

(Verse 1 : Kevin Rudolph)
I see your dirty face
High behind your collar
What is done in vain
Truth is hard to swallow
So you pray to God
To justify the way you live a lie, live a lie, live a lie
And you take your time
And you do your crime
Well you made your bed
I'm in mine

(Chorus)
Because when I arrive
I bring the fire
Make you come alive
I can take you higher
What is this, forgot?
I must now remind you
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock

(Verse 2: Kevin Rudolph)
Now the son's discrased
He, who knew his father
When he cursed his name
Turned, and chased the dollar
But it broke his heart
So he stuck his middle finger
To the world
To the world
To the world
And you take your time
And you stand in line
Well you'll get what's yours
I got mine

Chorus:
Because when I arrive
I bring the fire
Make you come alive
I can take you higher
What is this, forgot?
I must now remind you
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock

(Verse 3: Lil Wayne)
Yeah!
Wayne's world
Planet Rock
Panties drop
And the tops
And she gunna rock 'til the camera stop
And I sing about angels like angelock-?
And pay m-?
A-?
A-?
A-?
?
Im in here up like b***h what's up
Mechanic, me, I can fix you up
I can f**k you up
I can f**k you down
Shorty we can go wherever just pick a town
And the jewelry is louder than an an engine sound
Big xxx rocks like on the ground
Baby like sex that's on the ground
Weezy

Chorus:
Because when I arrive
I bring the fire
Make you come alive
I can take you higher
What is this, forgot?
I must now remind you
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
(x2)

Just Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock
Let It Rock

(Lil Wayne)
I'm back like I forgot somethin
I'm somethin
-? Rock rubbin' rap runnin'
Miles like I'm trying to get a fat stomach
Like Wayne the personal trainer
My aim is perfect I'll bang ya
Period, Like the remainder

(Kevin Rudolph)
I wish I could be
As cool as you
And I wish I could say
The things you do
But I can't and I won't live a lie
No not this time

SOTD: Ieva's Polka, Loituma

2009-01-10T13:50:00.003-06:00

They're Finnish, and it's not technically an SOTD, since I didn't wake up with it in my head, but it totally caught my ear on the internet this morning!

Ieva's Polka

I think I might live

2009-01-10T13:45:00.002-06:00

OMGosh--I've been down with this terrible cold that's been making its way around. Terrible! I've sounded like Kathleen Turner for more than a week, which, while it has it's charms, I've really had enough of!

Hope everybody had good Xmas and NY holidays--mine were good, and my New Years' resolution is to pay more attention to you guys.

MY goal is to post every day, even if I have nothing to say. We'll see how long until *that* gets annoying!

New music for to while away the winter hours

2008-12-13T23:21:00.004-06:00

Was watching the current_ channel and they have a show call La Blogotheque. The Fleet Foxes were featured. I love them! By the looks of 'em, I'm pretty sure they live in a van down by the river, but I like 'em.

Fleet Foxes - A Take Away Show from La Blogotheque on Vimeo.

White Winter Hymnal

Your Protector

Sub Giant

Ragged Wood

Meadowlarks

Mykonos

He Doesn't Know Why

Well, there's that...

2008-12-10T15:12:00.001-06:00

Overheard In New York:

"I turn 34 on friday. I'm old, but at least I made it past Jesus"

Help me pick a teeny-tiny laptop

2008-12-01T15:42:00.002-06:00

I'm potentially in the market for a little tiny netbook. I know they are not as high functioning as a regular laptop, but the size really appeals to me.

I know I was as much hard drive space as is realistic, and that I want Windows XP and not Linux, so between these 2, what do you think?

Asus EeePC 901

Dell Mini 9

And speaking of netbooks...

2008-12-01T11:30:00.003-06:00

...well, if I wasn't, I was about to.

I'm looking into getting one--Dell Mini 9 or 12, the Asus ones. Anybody have an opinion? As soon as I get decent links, I'll post them so you electronic nerds can help me (as before...bow, bow, scrape, scrape)

Yay the internets!

2008-12-01T11:28:00.002-06:00

Assuming my tech skills are functioning tonight, I should have the internets at my house by 9pm!

It's like not having running water. Smartphone has been geting a workout.

SOTD 12/1/08: Title TBD

2008-12-01T11:25:00.001-06:00

Ohhh and it's alll right and it's coming on we gotta get get right back to where we started from. Love is good, love can be strong, we gotta get right back to where we started from.

I've moved!

2008-11-30T12:36:00.003-06:00

Yep, a week ago Tuesday I moved into a townhouse my parents own. It's 9 minutes from work (fan-tastic) and walking distance to movies, restaurants, and bars. It's different living alone (well...with the troublemaking cats), but I like it. I've warned my father about his habit of letting himself into my domiciles, as I have a worser habit of standing naked in my kitchen.

The big house is unsurprisingly still for sale, but that's how it is in this market.

The new house is super cool--2 bed, 2.5 bath, wood floors on the main, metal beam running thru the bedroom, full basement (for my keggers, my sister says). I don't have much furniture yet, but that'll come (the couch, specifically, on Dec 10th). I'm having a hell of a time with the lightswitches, as every single one seems to be on the opposite side from where my reflexes want them to be, but hey.

Phone showed up Wed, internet will be here Monday (well, not here, as I'm at Panera right now), and TV Tuesday.

Housewarming pending...and like any other offer, if y'all wanna drive up from GA or down from America's Hat, I'll make you the guest of honor. I'm just saying. :)

Okay, so

2008-11-30T12:20:00.003-06:00

I had one really bad day on Friday and a few moments yesterday, but today? I'm doing fine. Finer than I expected! (Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? NO! And it's not over now!)

And do you know why? Because as I told the Wisconsin boy on the night of Meredith's Second Best Thanksgiving Day Breakup Ever, you gotta want me. Really, that's all there is to it. If you don't, then I've not got that much to be upset about. It's like grilling up some Black Angus for a vegetarian. No matter how good it is, they're still not gonna like it, so you might as well get another dinner partner.

I've got a lot going for me. Like my kickass chicken pot pie, for example

SOTD: Precious and few

2008-11-29T07:30:00.002-06:00

You know, 'precious and few are the moments...we can shaaaaare...and if I can't find my way back home (can't find my way) well it just wouldn't be fair (wouldn't be faaaaiir), cause precious are the moments we 2 can share.'

Sometimes adjective placement makes all the difference...

2008-11-11T06:13:00.000-06:00

You guys still out there?

2008-11-10T22:39:00.000-06:00

It's been a while--I'm sorry, it's been crazy. I'm not going to try to cover all that's gone on in life since I last posted, but I'll catch you up as needed.

As a lot of you whom I know i.r.l. already know, DB and I have gotten divorced since you all and I last really spoke. It's ok, we get along pretty well. We're both on match.com and not too long ago, Match delivered his profile to me as a potential mate, as we expected would happen. Life has this weird sense of humor.

We're both still living in and owners of the big blue house, but were working to change the "living in" part before the holidays. So, that's the biggest news.

Now hopefully I can entertain you guys more frequently in the future!

I've not forgotten you!

2008-09-16T22:24:00.003-05:00

I've been working god aawful hours and am soo tired when I get ome!

Here are some upcming events:
My Fiddler Crab hand
Half-Shirts At Starbucks (aka, why some people don't date)
Linen Pants Guy
The Corn Booth
The Owls and
The Crack Spider's Bitch

Stay tuned :)

My head hurts...ask me why...

2008-09-01T19:47:00.002-05:00

Oh forget it, I'll just tell you.

This morning I was lying in my bed with my laptop resting against my bent knees. My small troublemaking black cat (as opposed to my large troublemaking orange cat) started to slip off the side of the bed and dug her claws into my quilt to gain purchase.

I didn't want her to tear a hole in the quilt, so I reached over to grab her and in the process, my PC tipped toward me and the lid hit me right on the bridge of my nose.

It wouldn't be quite so bad if it actually looked like a black eye. Kiiiinda just looks like dirt. If it's turned colors tomorrow, I'll take a pic for you--might as well laugh, I do. Less cool than the time my sister broke my nose while we were wrestling (at age 20), more cool than the time I actually did step on an upturned rake and smacked myself in the head (at age 25).

I've made it my personal responsibility to keep the McHenry County cool quotient at a median level. I contribute where I can.

SOTD 8/27/08: Raise Up, Petey Pablo

2008-08-27T09:11:00.004-05:00

Lord I have no idea where this one came from!

Chorus: repeat 2X]
This one's for North Carolina! C'mon and raise up
Take your shirt off, twist it 'round yo' hand
Spin it like a helicopter
North Carolina! C'mon and raise up
This one's for you, uh-huh, this one's for who?
Us, us, us

[Petey Pablo]
Who am I? Petey Pab m*th*rf*ck*r
The first to put it down for North Carolina
But guess what (what?), it's been worth it
I'ma superstar, bought me a big ol' car
Four point six (see the car!)
Black fifty-four from the front to back
and got a button in the middle, make the trunk go eh-eh
But it ain't 'bout that
It's about gettin whatchu gettin and drivin all back here
Big fella's, six fella's
Half of me and Carolina niggaz grown of y'all
Whole plain, Marsian hoe, green county, criminal, damn
Transfer, center rear, brown over here (green over here)
Pass the table, down on the, (?) Eastern (lemme think)
Johnson County, Franklin, Bourgon, Newport, Warrenshell to Kingsville
(make (?) Town) slower, triangle, goldberg
Halafax, Statesville
and all my niggaz doin right behind 'em
While this right here, right here, right here, right here

[Chorus]

[Petey Pablo overlapping Chorus]
Uhh, uh-huh, uh-huh, beat it, beat it
You remember them days y'all, we used to play y'all
The radio had put our own on partner song y'all
We used to (rep our city, rep our city!)
Runnin through the school halls
just before our basketball pep-rally jumped off (hah!)
My home, my house, my hood (hah!)
My brother, my sister, my cous' (hah!)
My niggaz that'll die from beginnin
Been wit me even 'fore I been knew the world
Ya bitches parent said it, now I gotcha starin at it
Would-a been the same ol' North Carolina, it's (?)ville
Y'all niggaz just gettin it, oh it's a shame isn't it?
Oh you thought we scared, would be comin home wit a whole lotta songs
We were bullshittin?

[Chorus]

[Petey Pablo]
Man I had to do it
just incase you were one of the ones who wanted to come and ask somethin stupid
(what you think you doin?) What it look like?
Puttin it down for my niggaz in the south side
North Carolina, South Carolina
and all the little kids in the cape towns
We gonna hit y'all asses, ain't nuttin but a P.D. blast
that we got comin atcha, (beat) slammin, (earth) classic
(go for this) What's happenin, platinum
(baby your gonna drop the bomb) And I don't meant to scare ya
But I'm about to bring it home
(?) hail these streets and N.C. out the water
Had the feelin there was motherfucker had to real
(call 'em) I told ya!

Now, back to the Boone County Fairgrounds

2008-08-18T22:00:00.010-05:00

So, this weekend, I went to (witnessed? attended?) my first pow wow!

Now, I'd otherwise say I went to "a" pow wow, but seeing as how I appear to have been drafted for corn-vending-related non-indebted servitude at the next pow wow this weekend, it seems that this one just past became my "first" rather quickly.

It was pretty cool--I like history, music (drums in particular), learning new things--so there was a lot there I found interesting. It was pretty much like the wikiarticle says above--a dance circle, multiple drum groups that took turns playing, a variety of dancers. Now, I'm told--with a not-insignificant amount of scorn--by my non-caucasian friend that this event was organized by hobbyists, rather than natives, so it was pretty different from the "authentic" kind. [Apparently I'll learn more during my corn adventure next weekend?].

I also got a totally non-authentic, but very pretty, red dress and (sorry ma) a cool anklet. Yep, more "gypsy" foot jewelry for me. I think there's a 12 step program for it somewhere, but I'm in deep avoidance. :)

I did wear sunscreen and tried to stay out of the sun, so as to not repeat my adventure from this past June. I got to sit in caucasian seating (ie, the shade) and upon my arrival promptly got tossed a bar of Irish Spring soap. Very funny ;)

I do have pictures and some sub-par cell phone video, which I'll post if I get the go-ahead.

Another of my favorite G.S songs, while I'm on the topic...

2008-08-18T21:55:00.002-05:00

The Leaving of Liverpool.

Good music, dancing, and uisghe make for a pretty good evening if you're Irish. Or any other persuasion, for that matter! :)

A complicated guide to help you determine whether you think Monty Python is funny.

2008-08-18T21:49:00.001-05:00

Don't worry, you'll know right away which camp you fall into!

Voyez

Found this while looking for today's SOTD

2008-08-18T21:47:00.001-05:00

The Dublin Reels (Chieftains).

A reel is a kind of Irish step dance...

SOTD 8/18/08: Tell Me Ma, Gaelic Storm

2008-08-18T21:32:00.003-05:00

With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes? I knew I liked her for a reason

CHORUS: I'll tell me ma when I go home,
the boys won't leave the girls alone.
They pull my hair, they stole me comb,
but that's alright when i go home.
She is handsome, she is prety,
she's the belle of belfast city,
She is a courting. One. Two. Three
Please won't you tell me who is she?

Now Albert Mooney says he loves her,
all the boys are fighting for her.
Knocking on the door and ringing on the bell,
saying:"Oh my true love, are you well?"
Down she comes as white as snow
with rings on her fingers and bells on her toes.
Old Johnny Murphy says she'll die
if she doesn't get the fellow with the roving eye.

Let the wind and the rain and the hail come high,
and the snow come shoveling from the sky.
She's as nice as apple pie,
she'll get her own lad by and by!
When she gets a lad of her own
she won't tell her ma when she comes home.
Let them all come as they will

Coming soon:

2008-08-18T10:52:00.000-05:00

Details of a Boone County pow wow...

SOTD 8/17/08: Lake Shore Drive; Alliotta, Haynes, and Jeremiah

2008-08-17T18:04:00.004-05:00

Audio

There’s a road I’d like to tell you about,
Lives in my hometown.
Lake Shore Drive the road is called,
And it’ll take you up or down.
From Ratz on up to Riches,
Fifteen minutes you can fly.
Pretty blue lights along the way,
Help you ride on by.
And the blue light’s shining with a heavenly grace,
Help you ride on by.

And there ain’t no road just like it,
Anywhere I’ve found.
Running south on Lake Shore Drive,
Heading into town.
Just slipping on by on LSD,
Friday night trouble bound.

It’s starts up north from Hollywood,
Water on the driving side.
Concrete mountains rearing up,
Throwing shadows just about five.
Sometimes you can smell the green,
If your mind is feeling fine.
There ain’t no finer place to be,
Then running Lake Shore Drive.
And there’s no piece of mind or place you see,
Riding on Lake Shore Drive.

And there ain’t no road just like it,
Anywhere I’ve found.
Running south on Lake Shore Drive,
Heading into town.
Just slipping on by on LSD,
Friday night trouble bound.

It’s Friday night and you’re looking clean.
Too early to start the rounds.
A ten-minute drive from the Gold Coast back,
Makes you sure you’re pleasure bound.
And it’s four o’clock in the morning,
And all the people have gone away.
Just you and your mind and Lake Shore Drive,
Tomorrow is another day.
And the sun shines fine in the morning time.
Tomorrow is another day.

(whoo.)

And there ain’t no road just like it,
Anywhere I’ve found.
Running south on Lake Shore Drive,
Heading into town.
Just snaking on by on LSD,
Friday night trouble bound.

SOTD 8/15/08: Gin and Juice, OAR

2008-08-16T00:29:00.003-05:00

The banjo is the best part!

With so much drama in the l-b-c
Its kinda hard bein snoop d-o-double-g
But i, somehow, some way
Keep comin up with funky *ss s*it like every single day
May i, kick a little something for the gs (yeah)
And, make a few ends as (yeah!) I breeze, through
Two in the mornin and the partys still jumpin
Cause my momma aint home
I got bitches in the living room gettin it on
And, they aint leavin til six in the mornin (six in the mornin)
So what you wanna do, sheeeit
I got a pocket full of rubbers and my homeboys do too
So turn off the lights and close the doors
But (but what) we dont love them hoes, yeah!
So we gonna smoke a ounce to this
Gs up, hoes down, while you m*ther.... bounce to this

Chorus: repeat 2x

Rollin down the street, smokin indo, sippin on gin and juice
Laid back [with my mind on my money and my money on my mind]

Verse two:

Now, that, I got me some seagrams gin
Everybody got they cups, but they aint chipped in
Now this types of shit, happens all the time
You got to get yours but fool I gotta get mine
Everything is fine when you listenin to the d-o-g
I got the cultivating music that be captivating he
Who listens, to the words that I speak
As I take me a drink to the middle of the street
And get to mackin to this b*tch named sadie (sadie? )
She used to be the homeboys lady (oh, that bitch)
Eighty degrees, when I tell that b*tch please
Raise up off these n-u-ts, cause you gets none of these
At ease, as I mob with the dogg pound, feel the breeze
Beeeitch, Im just

Chorus

Verse three:

Later on that day
My homey dr. dre came through with a gang of tanqueray
And a fat *ss j, of some bubonic chronic that made me choke
Shit, this aint no joke
I had to back up off of it and sit my cup down
Tanqueray and chronic, yeah Im fucked up now
But it aint no stoppin, Im still poppin
Dre got some bitches from the city of compton
To serve me, not with a cherry on top
Cause when I bust my nut, Im raisin up off the cot
Dont get upset girl, thats just how it goes
I dont love you hoes, Im out the do
And Ill be

Chorus

Rollin down the street, smokin indo, sippin on gin and juice (beeotch!!)
Laid back [with my mind on my money and my money on my mind]
Rollin down the street, smokin indo, sippin on gin and juice (beeotch!!)
Laid back [with my mind on my money and my money on my mind]

Torturing the Intern: The Final Chapter

2008-08-16T00:17:00.003-05:00

Yes, not sure what the validation group will do now that their intern is gone. My money is on "turn on each other like a pack of starving coyotes", but we'll see. One thing that has happened during the intern's tenure--although I don't think because of it--is that I seem to now be an honorary member of said group.

How do I know? The sweet and gentle souls that I had in my car the other day basically said that now that I'm participating in the abuse that's dished out, that the gloves are off. That and the fact that one of them shoulder-checked me at the whiteboard yesterday morning. *Sniff*--I haven't lost my self-respect, I've just gained 8 brothers. It makes me all teary and stuff.

So, the final act of abuse for the intern was a can of silly string. It was fantastic--he looked like he was wearing a ramen noodle hat! The pics I have don't really do it justice--I'll see if I can better ones than mine. Course, I at one point handed my can over so the poor thing could defend himself against wb, only to end up with little globs of silly string totally interwoven into my curly hair.

And yep, Mr. McHenry County Zoo, drybrushing was a much better choice than trying to wash it out. You were right. This time.

We've had 3 college interns at work this summer...

2008-08-14T22:01:00.005-05:00

...2 girls and a boy (we'll call the boy JD). This is their last week at HCZ, and while the girls haven't been hazed too badly, JD has not had as much luck...

Or at least his car hasn't. Never let a grown man with a plotter, automotive grade 7-year adhesive vinyl, and a twisted streak near your intern's car. Yeah, that's not photoshop below, it's for true.

I'm not sure the scars will heal by graduation...

The intern himself-- >

SOTD 8/14/08: Dead Puppies, Ogden Edsl

2008-08-14T21:45:00.003-05:00

I'd have to agree

Dead puppies,
Dead puppies,
Dead puppies aren't much fun,
they dont come,
when you call,
they dont chase squirrels at all,
dead puppies aren't much fun...

My puppy died,
late last fall,
he's still rotting in the hall,
dead puppies aren't much fun, no no no,

mom said puppy's days are through,
she's going to throw him in the stew,
dead puppies aren't much fun..
dead puppies...dead dead dead...
dead puppies aren't much fun....

1 more time for roman rusia!

dead puppies aren't much fun

Yeah, so Wisconsin...

2008-08-13T20:03:00.004-05:00

As if it weren't enough--as mon ami and I were sitting there at a Wisconsin dive bar eating individually ketchupped french fries (well, me anyway)--to find a nice blonde girl who was so heartbroken over the Favre thing that she went into histrionics every time she saw "4" on the TV (no Olympics for the Wisconsinites, the horror), we also had the rare oppprtunity to see a young Wisconsinite in his new and tender first years. Doesn't every watering hole in Wisconsin have a 4 or 5 year old child at a bar at 9 o'clock in the evening?

No--mom wasn't picking up food, or bringing the kid over to visit dad at his second job, no. She was playing pool. In her defense, she did get the kid a chair and something to drink (think they stiffed him on the liquor--looked like well to me), while she picked out his new daddy--and there were some fine specimens to choose from too, but still. Even in Wisconsin?

And then, on our way out, we saw him perched on another bar stool in front of the poker machine pushing buttons. While mom cruised the merchandise. Course, really, once you've taught your kid about pool and Schlitz, what's a little video poker, huh?

Did I mention the 6 months pregnant bartender with the pack-a-day habit?

SOTD 8/13/08: South Australia, Flogging Molly/Gaelic Storm

2008-08-13T19:54:00.002-05:00

Nil Gaeilge maith agam

In South Australia I was born
Heave away, Haul away
In South Australia 'round Cape Horn
We're bound for South Australia

Haul away your rolling king
Heave away, Haul away
Haul away oh hear me sing
We're bound for South Australia

As I walked out one morning fair
Heave away, Haul away
'Twas there I met Miss Nancy Blair
We're bound for South Australia

There's just one thing that's on my mind
Heave away, Haul away
That's leaving Nancy Blair behind
We're bound for South Australia

And as we wallop round Cape Horn
Heave away, Haul away
You'll wish to God you've never been born
We're bound for South Australia

SOTD 8/12/08: La Mer, Charles Trenet

2008-08-12T21:06:00.001-05:00

Ears

La mer
Qu'on voit danser le long des golfes clairs
A des reflets d'argent
La mer
Des reflets changeants
Sous la pluie

La mer
Au ciel d'été confond
Ses blancs moutons
Avec les anges si purs
La mer bergère d'azur
Infinie

Voyez
Près des étangs
Ces grands roseaux mouillés
Voyez
Ces oiseaux blancs
Et ces maisons rouillées

La mer
Les a bercés
Le long des golfes clairs
Et d'une chanson d'amour

La mer
A bercé mon coeur pour la vie

Tomorrow: Discussion of the legal bar age in Wisconsin...aka Maybe not 5

2008-08-12T21:05:00.001-05:00

Guess what they don't have at Taco Bell?

2008-08-12T20:47:00.003-05:00

Ketchup*! That poor drive-thru girl, she just didn't know she was suffering (and we were barely containing our laughter) on account of the Woodstock McDonald's.

Yes, yesterday, when wb asked for some ketchup for his cheesy taco thing**, he was roundly ignored by the Taco Bell girl. I think she may have even just closed the window on him, I'm not sure (it was hard to see with my head on the dashboard, laughing). Ok, I'll admit, I think she may have been a little thrown off by his asking how she was when she delivered the standard Taco Bell Greeting Hello over the drive-thru intercom, but still....

...if deep-fried scorn were people, she'd be China.

*what?
**Just the thought of putting ketchup on a taco makes me want to throw up. Srsly. A little bit in my mouth just now.

SOTD 8/10/08: I'm Holding My Own, Lee Roy Parnell

2008-08-10T20:27:00.002-05:00

Audio

You said the only thing harder than saying goodbye
Was saying hello after all this time
But I ran into you with your new love in tow
You say you've worried about me and you want to know how am I getting by

Well thank you I'm holding my own don't you worry about me no more
It hurt me when you left me alone but there's two sides to every door
And the life you left behind has led to lives I'd have never known
So thank you I'm holding my own

Your new love walked on up while we said goodbye
You took my hand and you caught my eye
Tell me there's a chance for another try
You would love to hear from me some sweet time
I guess you didn't understand

Well thank you I'm holding my own don?t you worry about me no more
It hurt me when you left me alone but there's two sides to every door
And the life you left behind has led to lives I'd have never known
So thank you I'm holding my own

There's a lesson I learned when a love stays true
If you look long enough you'll find the one who was looking for you

Right now I'm holding my own don't you worry about me no more
It hurt me when you left me alone but there?s two sides to every door
And the life you left behind has led to lives I'd have never known
So thank you I'm holding my own
Thank you I'm holding my own

Went to a "dry" wedding tonight...

2008-08-09T22:48:00.005-05:00

I guess it was for religious practice reasons? Really, they should put that right on the invite, so we Irish Catholics know to bring our flasks. Mine fits nicely in my evening bag for occasions such as this.

Yeah. See the thing is, we should all be able to have a good time without consuming alcohol, it's true. But really, in reality, the execution is much different. I don't need to drink to whoop it up, but I think it's fair to say that most people could use a glass of chablis to get themselves out on the dance floor.

It's a shame for the family, cause it was a beautiful service and reception. And it's wrong to complain, I mean, it's like complaining about someone's yarmulke! It's the home of religious freedom here, don't complain, but still... I think I left to get a drink with my parents' around 815?*

One nice thing, though, was that all the couples got up after the "first dance" to dance themselves....leaving a clear view of everybody there who wasn't part of a couple. Uh huh. ;)

*bartender was cute though, so I got that going for me. Which is nice.

SOTD 8/9/08: Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You, Lauryn Hill

2008-08-09T22:41:00.002-05:00

Pretty different from the Frankie Valli version

You're just too good to be true.
Can't take my eyes off of you.
You'd be like heaven to touch.
I wanna hold you so much.
At long last love has arrived.
And I thank God I'm alive.
You're just too good to be true.
Can't take my eyes off of you.

Pardon the way that I stare.
There's nothing else to compare.
The sight of you leaves me weak.
There are no words left to speak.
But if you feel like I feel.
Please let me know that it's real.
You're just too good to be true.
Can't take my eyes off of you.

I need you baby, and if it's quite all right,
I need you baby to warm a lonely night.
I love you baby.
Trust in me when I say: OK
Oh pretty baby, don't bring me down
I pray.
Oh pretty baby, now that I found you, stay.
And let me love you, oh baby let me love you, oh baby....

You're just too good to be true.
Can't take my eyes off of you.
You'd be like heaven to touch.
I wanna hold you so much.
At long last love has arrived.
And I thank God I'm alive.
You're just too good to be true.
Can't take my eyes off of you.

I need you baby, and if it's quite all right,
I need you baby to warm a lonely night.
I love you baby.
Trust in me when I say: It's OK
Oh pretty baby, don't bring me down
I pray.
Oh pretty baby, now that I found you, stay.
And let me love you, oh baby let me love you, oh baby....

I need you baby, and if it's quite all right,
I need you baby to warm a lonely night.
I love you baby.
Trust in me when I say: OK
Oh pretty baby, don't bring me down
I pray.
Oh pretty baby, now that I found you, stay.
And let me love you, oh baby let me love you, oh baby....

SOTD 8/7/08: Jump, Kris Kross

2008-08-09T22:34:00.004-05:00

Some of them try to rhyme, but they can't rhyme like this-->

You should know, you should know that ahhh
Kris Kross is not having anything today
As we stand there totally krossed out
We commence to make you

Jump Jump
The Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump
The Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump
Kris Kross will make you Jump Jump

Don't try to compare us to another bad little fad
I'm the Mac and I'm bad give you something that you never had
I'll make ya Jump Jump wiggle and shake your rump
Cause I'll be kicking the flavor that makes you wanna Jump
How high? Real high
Cause I'm just so fly
A young loveable, hugable type of guy
And everything is the back with a little slack
And inside-out is wiggida wiggida wack
I come stompin' with somethi' to keep you jumpin
R&B abd bullcrap is what I'm dumpin'
And ain't something about Kris Kross we all that
So when they ask to the rocks they believe that

Jump Jump
The Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump
The Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump
Kris Kross will make you Jump Jump
uh huh uh huh
Jump Jump
The Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump
The Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump
Kris Kross will make you Jump Jump

I let myself knockin' knockin'
I love it when a girl is play jockin' jockin'
The D-A-double D-Y-M-A-C
Ya you know me
I got you jumpin' an' pumpin' an' movin' all around G
In the mix I make ya take a step back
They try to step to the Mac then they got jacked
To the back you'll be sportin' the gear that's coincidental
And like you knowit so don't be claiming that it's mental

Two lil' kids with a flow you ain't ever heard
And none faking you can understyand every word
As you listen to my cool school melody
The Daddy makes you J-U-M-P

Jump Jump
The Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump
The Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump
Kris Kross will make you Jump Jump
uh huh uh huh
Jump Jump
The Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump
The Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump
Kris Kross will make you Jump Jump

Now, the formalities of this and that
Is that Kris Kross ain't comin' off wack
And for all ya'll sucks that don't know
Check it out

Some of them try to rhyme but they can't rhyme like this Go Go
Some of them try to rhyme but they can't rhyme like this Go Go
Some of them try to rhyme but they can't rhyme like this Go Go
Some of them try to rhyme but they can't Go Go
Cause I'm the miggida miggida miggida Mac Daddy
Miggida miggida miggida Mac
Cause I'm the miggida miggida miggida Mac Daddy

I make you wanna
Jump Jump
The Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump
The Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump
Kris Kross will make you Jump Jump
uh huh uh huh (repeat 3 more times)
Believe dat

SOTD 8/08/08: Rhapsody in Blue, George Gershwin

2008-08-08T20:46:00.002-05:00

No words to this one :)

Really, you can't be too careful...

2008-08-06T22:31:00.002-05:00

SOTD 8/6/08: Close To You, The Carpenters

2008-08-06T22:22:00.002-05:00

Why do birds
Suddenly appear?
Everytime you are near
Just like me
They long to be
Close to you

Why do stars
Fall down from the sky?
Everytime you walk by
Just like me
They long to be
Close to you

(*) on the day that you were born
The angels got together and decided
To create a dream come true
So they sprinkled moondust in your hair
Of gold and starlight in your eyes of blue

(**) that is why all the girls in town
Follow you all around
Just like me
They long to be
Close to you

Repeat (*)
Repeat (**)

Just like me
They long to be
Close to you

Woo... close to you...

What have I, what have I, what have I done to deserve this?

2008-08-05T21:41:00.006-05:00

I got a brief lunch from the McDonald's drive thru today and underwent an experience I have almost every time I *go* through this particular drive thru.

Them: Here's your meal (hands over bag) and your tea
Me: Thanks. Hey, can I have some ketchup too?
Them: What?
Me: Ketchup
Them: Oh, sure

Sometimes we repeat that last step a few times--Ketchup. What? Ketchup. What?
What's my problem, you ask?

It's this:
Fast food server, you've just handed me my food--heck you've probably done this 200 times by this point today and

NOTHING RHYMES WITH KETCHUP!!

You're hanging your *head* out the drive thru window of a fast food restaurant, you've just handed me a bag containing french fries, and nothing. rhymes. with. ketchup.

What do you think I just asked for? Could it really be anything other than ketchup? Could you wait 5 seconds for your ears to get the word ketchup to your brain before you say what**? Does it have to be like this every time?

Srsly.
Just hand over the ketchup

(What?)

Stop now if you don't want to read about bras.

2008-08-05T21:31:00.002-05:00

Well, I figured it was only fair to warn. Underwear is one of my favorite subjects and pastimes, so, really it's no surprise, but...

A couple weeks ago I went to the Renaissance Faire with a girlfriend of mine. Before the event, she and I went looking for something fun to wear whilst hassling the knights and hurling tomatoes at the Vegetable Justice guy.

We went to several places (Torrid, Charlotte Russe, Hot Topic), but finally ended up finding something for her at Frederick's of Hollywood. Not something icky either! It was super cute--a corset, yes, but really cute.

Which bring me to the point of my post. I always thought F of H was a place one would go to get slinky--peut etre even trashy--lingerie (not that there's anything wrong with that), but while I was there I ended up buying some actual, wearable underthings.

Ladies! They actually have attractive/sexy, functional bras that feel good! I had no idea! Why didn't anyone ever tell me this? They've ones that fit (even) me, and what's more, in the size that fits me, all the stuff I want conatained stays contained! And they're cute too--good patterns and styles. Even polka dots!

Much better (albeit harder to get to) than that other underwear store at which I have the white VIP credit card. You know, the one they send you to replace the pink one? After you've spent 6 million dollars.

Anyway. Frederick's of Hollywood. Go. And take me with you.

My college roommate Tim...

2008-08-04T22:39:00.004-05:00

Boy, I could start a lot of sentences with that.

...once bought a hamster that ended up having 6 babies the day after he brought it home.
...only ate his bacon if it was just barely warmed and still wiggly.
...did a very good Bob Dylan impression
...was the only one in Grant South who liked Korean Beef from the cafeteria
...used to call me "--edith", since everyone else called me "Mere"
...always wore his "dress" green jeans on dates
...once got peed on by his dorm roomie on the middle of the night while he was lying in his own bed
...always called cigarettes "squares"

and most importantly to this post

...used to call to call the bathroom: The Evacuation Station

You can imagine my laughter, then, when I saw this poster on the wall at HCZ. I *do* like to see my options well marked and posted on the wall in the copy room.

'Case I forget.

How many people do you know with an Atari tattoo?

2008-08-04T22:35:00.003-05:00

Myself, I just know one. And she rocks! :)

Mmmm, chocolate martinis. If you're ever in Gurnee near Monkey Dish, I highly recommend trying one. Or 5. But, really, one oughta do it.

2008-08-04T22:28:00.007-05:00

Ok, this is the last you'll have to hear about my birthday...

2008-08-04T22:17:00.006-05:00

...until December when the half-birthday celebrations begin!

I had a really super fun birthday dinner on Friday in the city! Ate homemade dinner with real plates and actual cloth napkins, sat on the balcony and looked at the Sears Tower (which, although I've lived near it my whole life, is really quite remarkable), got to hold an adorable newborn baby, watched James Bond (Goldeneye specifically), did a better job of sleeping through the night. Very much fun!

Some pics...my adorable birthday cake (which I'm told is Belle?), the Sears Tower (with a 1.3 mp cell phone camera in the dark--forgive), and one of my birthday presents which, although I hate to admit it, is funny cause it's true. I do like a good tiara :).

SOTD 8/4/08: Real Love, Mary J Blige

2008-08-04T21:57:00.002-05:00

Audio

We are lovers true and through and though
we made it through the storm
I really want you to realize
I really want to put you on
I've been searchin' for someone
To satisfy my every need
Won't you be my inspiration
Be the real love that I need

Real love
I'm searchin' for a real love
Someone to set my heart free
Real love
I'm searchin' for a real love

Oooh, when I met you I just knew
That you would take my heart and run
Until you told me how you felt for me
You said I'm not the one
So I slowly came to see
All of the things that you were made of
And now I hope my dreams and inspirations
Lead me to want some real love

I got to have a real love
Loves so true and oh baby
I thought your love was true
I thought you were the answer to
The questions in my mind
But it seems that I was wrong
If I stay strong maybe
I'll find my real love

So I try my best and pray to God
He'll send me someone real
To caress me and to guide me towards
A love my heart can feel
Now I know I can be faithful
I can be your all in all
I'll give you good lovin' through the summertime,
winter, spring, and fall

(x2)

You see I'm searching for a real love
And I don't know where to go
Been around the world and high and low
And still I'll never know
How it feels to have a real love
Cause it seems it's not around
Gotta end it in this way because it
Seems he can't be found

(x2)

SOTN 8/3/08: Theme Song to "The Facts of Life"

2008-08-03T21:59:00.001-05:00

Audio

You take the good, you take the bad,
you take them both and there you have
The facts of life, the facts of life.

There’s a time you got to go and show
You’re growin’ now you know about the facts of life,
The facts of life.

When the world never seems to be livin up to your dreams
And suddenly you’re finding out
The facts of life are all about you, you.

It takes a lot to get ‘em right
When you’re learning the facts of life. (learning the facts of life)
Learning the facts of life (learning the facts of life)
Learning the facts of life.

SOTD 7/30/08: Realize, Colby Caillat

2008-07-30T20:57:00.003-05:00

Audio

Take time to realize
That your warmth is
Crashing down on me
Take time to realize
That I am on your side
Well didn't I, didn't I tell you
But I can't spell it out for you
No it's never gonna be that simple
No I can't spell it out for you

If you just realize
What I just realized
That we'd be perfect for each other
And we'll never find another
Just realize
What I just realized
We'd never have to wonder
If we missed out on each other, now

Take time to realize
Oh oh, I'm on your side
Didn't I, didn't I tell you
Take time to realize
Oh oh, I'm on your side
Oh ooo oh ooo oh
But I can't spell it out for you
No it's never gonna be that simple
No I can't spell it out for you

If you just realize
What I just realized
That we'd be perfect for each other
And we'll never find another
Just realize
What I just realized
We'd never have to wonder
If we missed out on each other, but

It's not the same
No it's never the same
If you don't feel it too
If you meet me half way
If you would meet me half way
It could be the same for you

If you just realize
What I just realized
That we'd be perfect for each other
And we'll never find another
Just realize
What I just realized
We'd never have to wonder
If we missed out on each other

Just realize
What I just realized
That we'd be perfect for each other
And we'll never find another
Just realize
What I just realized
We'd never have to wonder
If we missed out on each other, now
Missed out on each other now
Missed out on each other now
Missed out on each other now

SOTD 7/29/08: When I Grow Up, Pussy Cat Dolls

2008-07-30T20:51:00.003-05:00

I'm never going to...

Boys call you sexy
And you don’t care what they say
See everytime you turn around they screaming your name
Boys call you sexy
And you don’t care what they say
See everytime you turn around they screaming your name

Now ive got a confession
When I was young I wanted attention
And I promised myself that I’d do anything
Anything at all for them to notice me
But I aint complaining
We all wanna be famous
So go ahead and say what you wanna say
You don’t know what its like to be nameless
Want them to know what your name is
Cus see when I was younger I would say

When I grow up
I wanna be famous
I wanna be a star,
I wanna be in movies

When I grow up
I wanna see the world
Drive nice cars
I wanna have groupies

When I grow up
Be on tv
People know me
Be on magazines

When I grow up
Fresh and clean
Number one chick when I step out on the scene

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

They used to tell me I was silly
Until I poped up on the tv
I always wanted to be a superstar
And knew that singing songs would get me this far

But I aint complaining
We all wanna be famous
So go ahead and say what you wanna say
You don’t know what its like to be nameless
Want them to know what your name is
Cus see when I was younger I would say

When I grow up
I wanna be famous
I wanna be a star,
I wanna be in movies

When I grow up
I wanna see the world
Drive nice cars
I wanna have groupies

When I grow up
Be on tv
People know me
Be on magazines

When I grow up
Fresh and clean
Number one chick when I step out on the scene

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

I see them staring at me
Oh im a trendsetter
Yes this is true cus what I do, no one can do it better
You can talk about me, cus im a hot topic
I see you watching me watching me and I know you want it

When I grow up
I wanna be famous
I wanna be a star,
I wanna be in movies

When I grow up
I wanna see the world
Drive nice cars
I wanna have groupies

When I grow up
Be on tv
People know me
Be on magazines

When I grow up
Fresh and clean
Number one chick when I step out on the scene

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

When I grow up
I wanna be famous
I wanna be a star,
I wanna be in movies

When I grow up
I wanna see the world
Drive nice cars
I wanna have groupies

When I grow up
Be on tv
People know me
Be on magazines

When I grow up
Fresh and clean
Number one chick when I step out on the scene

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

Be careful what you wish for cus you just might get it
You just might get it
You just might get it

What's with the shoes?

2008-07-30T20:47:00.003-05:00

Specifically today in the middle of the Walmart parking lot, but really, all over the place. On the side of the road, on the highway median, next to the tollbooth at the Cumberland Toll last week, tied together and thrown over the power lines (my personal favorite), next to stop signs, in the parking lot of my gym.

I, myself, have never accidentally come home without my shoes. I've never been driving along and had my shoe fly off and land on the side of the road (although those of you who know me IRL might not believe me)--and what's more, if my shoe did fly off, I'd stop and get it. And neither has a spare pair of my shoes thrown itself out the window onto the macadam.

I do not understand. Where do all the spare shoes come from?

If I didn't have my social butterfly merit badge already...

2008-07-24T19:25:00.006-05:00

...I certainly will after this weekend!

Tomorrow I'm going down to the city (the big big city). Yep, I think this might be the final birthday celebration of my year, which isn't bad, considering it's been almost a month. Not sure where we're going, but I'm sure it will involve drinking. Lots and lots of drinking. At least that's what I was told. Also possibly something about a balloon animal hat.

Saturday I am babysitting my incredibly (incredibly) cute niece while my sissy and BIL Nick are out doing...something.

Sunday? The Renaissance Faire! I can't wait to put on my corset and give some knight a hard time!!! I think it might serve the other people in my life well too, as I should have some of the edge taken off me by the time I leave the faire. [Sarcasm, just one of the free services I offer.]

Either that or I'll just be warmed up and ready to go, and good luck to the next soul I run into. We shall see... ;)

Yes--Ty--there really is a social butterfly

2008-07-24T19:20:00.009-05:00

It was insinuated today that I am a social butterfly! Well, I never.

This, from the guy who wrote "Hi!" on my arm during the 9am meeting (the one that has monetary fines for disturbing the peace. And arriving late. And not having your phone on Shhh. And not having your stuff done. And making outgoing phone calls).

He should *so* have to pay a dollar for writing on me.

Speaking of Hooters. Well, okay, not really, but it's where some of the boys went to lunch today and it's on my mind. Now, I've been to this Hooters and honestly, the only worthwhile girls are the curly-haired one and the red-headed one. The rest make you want to scratch your eyes out. Especially the one with the dark hair all ratted up on top of her head. Eww. I don't get it. Is there a Hooters with attractive women serving eats? I'm just curious.

And. AND!! Get some new dance tights for the love of God! They make those heavy Lycra dance tights in the sandal foot/sheer-to-waist variety in dance stores all over town! I have some--do you want mine?

Mother of pearl, why don't they just wear black bras under white shirts while they're at it? Accidental trashiness is just a shame. If you're gonna do it, do it right.

And I'm not being catty, either. I can deal with competition from pretty girls.

Usually in the alley behind the restaurant.
I rarely break a nail.

SOTD 7/22/08: I'm Coming Out, Diana Ross

2008-07-22T23:12:00.002-05:00

They mean happy, right?

And in case you didn't have one in the first place

2008-07-21T21:35:00.005-05:00

Come here often?

SOTD 7/21/08: Shake It, Metro Station

2008-07-21T21:19:00.006-05:00

Best if turned up to eleven, with your foot out the window*

I'll take you home if you don't leave me at the front door (front door)
Your body's cold, but girl we're getting so warm
And I was thinking of ways that I could get inside (get inside)
Tonight you're falling in love (let me go now)
The feelings stirring me up (here we go now)

Now if she does it like this will you do it like that
Now if she touches like this, will you touch her right back
Now if she moves like this, will you move it like that (come on)

Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it

Your lips tremble but your eyes are in a straight stare (straight stare)
you're on the bed but your clothes are laying right there
And I was thinking of places that I could hide
Tonight you're falling in love (let me go now)
The feelings stirring me up (here we go now)

Now if she does it like this will you do it like that
Now if she touches like this, will you touch her right back
Now if she moves like this, will you move it like that (come on)

Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it

I saw you dancing and I couldn't get you off my mind
(I could tell that you could tell that I was taking my time)
I was thinking of ways that you would stay and be mine
(Your body's shaking, turn me on, so I can turn out the lights)

Now if she does it like this will you do it like that
Now if she touches like this, will you touch her right back
Now if she moves like this, will you move it like that (come on)

Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it

Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh shake it

*I might make this my new theme song. I think everyone should shake it. Even you Wisconsinites--work it. Uh huh, Canada, it's your turn to shine.

New stuff in Woodstock

2008-07-21T21:07:00.005-05:00

A new cafe (they spell it caffe, but I do as I please) that appears to be planning to serve gelato and other wonderful things. If you're familiar with the actual Woodstock Square, it's going to be where Tip Top Bistro was. If you're familiar with the movie Groundhog Day, it's going to be where the Tip Top Cafe was.

Also, where Harvest Moon restaurant used to be, an Irish pub named--what else--O'Leary's is under construction. Ahh, 2 of my favorite things combined into one: Irish and pub

In case yours goes missing

2008-07-21T21:06:00.002-05:00

If I'm awake, you're awake.

2008-07-20T23:11:00.001-05:00

I actually slept pretty well this weekend!

Course, now here it is a school night and I'm lying here on my stomach with my head under the pillow talking to you all, instead of sleeping. All I need now is a comic book, a flashlight, and a walkie talkie to talk to my friend next door.

I should stay at my parents' house once in a while, cause then I could employ the time-honored: "Mommmmm? Can I have a glass of waterrrrrr?"*

Something to consider.

*And yes, I *am* spoiled enough to have a mom who really would bring me a glass of water.

SOTD 7/20/08: Sweet City Woman, The Stampeders

2008-07-20T21:29:00.006-05:00

OH this is one of my favorite songs of all time!! I'm so glad my subconscious dredged it up!

I love banjo music (shut up) and this particular song reminds me of a singular incident in college that was particularly enjoyable. I was driving down Normal Rd past the library thoroughly enjoying Sweet City Woman and I nearly ran over a boy I had a HUGE crush on, who was crossing the street. He stopped to pretend-scold me and I was nearly suffocated by the Davidoff Cool Water. Sighhhhh :)

He was my lab partner. Black leather jacket, short hair, Travis...something...

Anyway--The Stampeders

The best verse?
Like a country mornin', all snuggled in dew
Ah she's got a way to make a man feel shiny and new
And she sing in the evenin', oh familiar tunes
And she feeds me love and tenderness and macaroons

Ain't nobody don't like macaroons...

:O

2008-07-20T21:19:00.002-05:00

Bastards!

Just like in Se7en, when they're out in the desert...

2008-07-20T21:09:00.004-05:00

...and that FedEx truck pulls up and the guy gets out with a box, and you don't think to yourself, "Huh, wonder what's in the box?", but, instead, your very first thought is,
"That's the perfect size box for a human head".

Tooo many horror movies.

You know you've seen too many horror movies when...

2008-07-20T20:26:00.005-05:00

I'm alone in the house right now. I've been boxing things up and moving stuff down to the dining room, coiling cords, dusting, reading a few pages from a scary book I just got, here and there in between. It's quiet in the house, no TV or radio on.

So, just now, I had my head under the bed as I was pulling some stuff out from under it and heard a faint, sort of musical tone--kind of like a music box. I quickly determined that it wasn't my cellphone (as my current ringtone is crickets) and a super-creepy sense of there's-someone-in-my-house dread totally washed over me. Eeek! Goosebumps and everything.

Then, as I realized the tune was a little familiar, it's summer, and I live in the suburbs, I looked out my bedroom window. Yep, it was the ice cream truck.

But, as the post title says, how do you know you've seen too many horror movies?

When you're home alone, and you hear faint, tinny, unplaceably creepy music, and you look out the bedroom window into the encroaching twilight to see that the music is coming from the ice cream truck that is heading up the hill toward your house, and you feel MORE scared instead of LESS??

THAT, my friend, is when you know you've seen too many scary movies.

This is actually a pretty decent place to eat!

2008-07-19T23:26:00.003-05:00

I've been to Noodles & Company a few times for dinner, and honestly, even though it's a pasta chain, I'm starting to really like it. I'm usually in there alone (with my Newcastle Brown Ale and my books about murder, making out, or a combination thereof) and I've only had one dish, the spicy Penne Rosa, but everything looks good and there are always a bunch of people in the one that's closest to my house, which makes for good people watching.

Give it a shot if there's one near you. A plate of penne with spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, and chicken plus a glass of water and a beer for around $10. You really can't beat that.

Plus their website is fun and quirky, so they deserve props for that. Although...the home page is open in another IE window as I type this, and I'm noticing that the strange and repetitive music they have on it is really starting to remind me of some of the horror movies I've seen. Hmmmmmm, creepy.

SOTD 7/19/08: You and I Both, Jason Mraz

2008-07-19T23:22:00.003-05:00

Audio

Was it you who spoke the words that things would happen but not to me
Oh things are gonna happen naturally
Oh taking your advice I'm looking on the bright side
And balancing the whole thing
But often times those words get tangled up in lines
And the bright lights turn to night
Until the dawn it brings
Another day to sing about the magic that was you and me

Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just read of
Others only read of the love, the love that I love.

See I'm all about them words
Over numbers, unencumbered numbered words
Hundreds of pages, pages, pages forwards
More words then I had ever heard and I feel so alive

You and I, you and I
Not so little you and I anymore
And with this silence brings a moral story
More importantly evolving is the glory of a boy

Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just dream of
And if you could see me now
Well I'm almost finally out of
I'm finally out of
Finally deedeedeedee
Well I'm almost finally, finally
Well I'm free, oh, I'm free

And it's okay if you have go away
Oh just remember the telephone works both ways
And if I never ever hear them ring
If nothing else I'll think the bells inside
Have finally found you someone else and that's okay
Cause I'll remember everything you sang

Cause you and I both loved what you and I spoke of
and others just read of and if you could see now
well I'm almost finally out of.
I'm finally out of, finally, deedeeededede
well I'm almost finally, finally, finally out of words.

Fine, I'll go to sleep

2008-07-18T23:54:00.002-05:00

Since none of yous are awake. I did actually sleep on the couch this evening, but, true to form, I'll probably now lie here awake.

We'll see...hopefully I won't be back.

SOTD 7/18/08: Lost, Katy Perry

2008-07-18T23:41:00.003-05:00

Yes yes, I know, more Katy Perry :)

Audio

I'm out on my own again
Face down in the porcelain
Feeling so high but looking so low
Party favors on the floor
Group of girls banging on the door
So many new fair-weather friends ooo?

(CHORUS)
Have you ever been so lost
Known the way and still so lost

(V2)
Caught in the eye of a hurricane
Slowly waving goodbye like a pageant parade
So sick of this town pulling me down
My mother says I should come back home but
Can?t find the way cause the way is gone
So if I pray am I just sending words into outer space

(CHORUS)
Have you ever been so lost
Known the way and still so lost
Another night waiting for someone to take me home
Have you ever been so lost

(BRIDGE)
Is there a light
Is there a light
At the end of the road
I'm pushing everyone away
Cause I can?t feel this anymore
Can't feel this anymore

(CHORUS)
Have you ever been so lost
Known the way and still so lost
Another night waiting for someone to take me home
Have you ever been so lost
Have you ever been so LOST.

And just when you though you were safe from my birthday for a whole nother year...

2008-07-18T23:28:00.002-05:00

...da dum da dum, I have yet another opportunity to celebrate it! And what's more, I have been promised a balloon animal hat, which, as anyone who knows me in real life can attest, I am *absolutely* going to wear around town. Assuming it fits in the cab. Oh, it'll fit in the cab.

I'm kind of seeing how far into the year I can stretch the endless birthday celebration. I do still have one more offer...maybe I can hold out til August for that one.

2008-07-18T23:24:00.005-05:00

The cheddar curtain isn't so bad if you just slide by

2008-07-18T22:51:00.009-05:00

Yep, I braved the state line on Thursday night and went up and visited friends of mine for dinner and entertainment (which is notably different from dinner and tournament, unless Guitar Hero counts). Where they are hardly counts as Wisconsin, really, they're right on the border; but hey, on the border is pret-ty fun!

You know, that's what Wisconsin is all about--dinner plus entertainment. Wisconsin doesn't want you to have to do it yourself**. I don't think I've ever been to a supper club where there wasn't an accordion guy or a guitar player or even a karaoke singer. The last time I was in a supper club (eating my fried chicken in someone's converted living room), my friends and I sang the harmony backup for Suspicious Minds. We rocked that former living room...we may have even gotten a free bowl of peas for our efforts, it's hard to say.

It *is* very strange to see people smoking in bars/restaurants in the Lesser White North, though. You'd not think that 13 years of my bar-going life would be erased by the time that has passed since Illinois banned it, yet...still.

I did observe some pretty skillful Guitar Hero--though I declined to play myself, as I hadn't had enough to drink at that point. I think one of the rules of GH should be that you have to put your all into it--none of this playing while lying on the couch crap. If you see the "Whammy" flashing, I wanna see the full arm extension. Make it worth the price of my admission, you know? I'm just sayin.

And so eventually, it was time to head home because *yawn*, I'm not as young as I once was. All the way home I was so tired, *so* tired. Couldn't wait to crawl in bed. And when I did?

&^%#@*% insomnia.

**Much like Canada, Wisconsin is interested in your overall happiness. I appreciate that.

The Wisconsin gaming commission gets tired of waiting for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee...

2008-07-18T22:44:00.008-05:00

...and just puts the rules about sex right on the slot machines where everyone can see them

Protestants:

Catholics:

That's an extraordinary nutsack, mind if I try?

2008-07-16T21:28:00.005-05:00

Real nuts, real sack, real commercial.

A day like all days, that alters and illuminates the events of our times

2008-07-16T20:36:00.005-05:00

Well, that's what my dad says about days like today, anyway. Course, he also says a phrase in some foreign language (whose name I would need to clarify) that means: "You have been weighed in the balance and found to be lacking." I used to describe some of my old boyfriends with that phrase...

Speaking of old boyfriends ;) I found out that one of my old boyfriends is getting married next fall. I'm happy for him! His dad is 6 foot 11 and is the subject of one of my favorite stories***

I had a very fun day at work today :) It was skirt day! A few weekends ago, I went shopping with a new and good girlfriend of mine. We bought ourselves disgustingly matchy-matchy $5 plaid skirts from Eddie Bauer (hers blue, mine pink and tan).

We mostly bought them because they were originally $89 (which makes me want to shop at the full priced Eddie Bauer store on the 5th of never). I mean, really, it's just linen. Yes, they're cut on the bias, which is very cool, but still...linen. However, given that we got an $85 deal, we couldn't pass them up. Reason 2 is we felt the need to prove that my girlfriend really does have legs.

And now, after wearing a delightfully cut linen skirt, she also knows why I always sway like a bell when I've got a long skirt on. You can't resist it...I dare you to try. Girls *or* boys.

Anyway, it was a day that gave me multiple opportunities to harrass my friends to death, which as we all know is one of my favorite things. Does it help that I only really hassle the people I truly like? I mean, not that it's going to stop me, but...

Discussed the finer fashion differences between a wrinkle and a crease in a pair of dark blue jeans, ate good lunch at the Chinese restaurant (with more harrassment--and would have gotten to take the Boy Intern shoe shopping, if our pain-in-the-*ss ride hadn't come back to actually let us in the car**), had a busy afternoon (including arguments about work stuff--we all know how I feel about expressing my opinion), talked to a good friend on my way to the softball field, saw some of my chicks @ the game, talked to another good friend on the way home.

Ate milk and cookies for dinner and am now doing my starfish impersonation.

Such a nice day. It doesn't make for very entertaining blog material, but it's not all the time that you have a day that leaves you still smiling when you crawl into bed at night. Today was a day like that for me :)

**So yeah, our ride drove off into the sunset without us (yes, I can take a good dose of the crap I dish out, I figure it's only fair ;) and I suggested to the Boy Intern that we go shoe shopping @ Marshalls. He asked why. Um, it's shoe shopping? Boy Intern, reeeeaaaally...I'm offering you a change to hone your dude skills for your return to the harem that is the American University. Here, listen...girl likes shoes, girl likes shopping for shoes, girl's affection for boy grows if boy spends time with her doing things she likes sometimes-particularly if boy looks at her admiringly, girl's growing affection for boy leads to making out.

Ergo...
Shoe shopping with girl = increased chance for making out. See? Not so crazy after all, huh? Yeah no, didn't think so ;)

***jm's dad was a police officer and jm told me a story about one time he pulled over a semi-truck. Apparently the driver wasn't watching when Officer M walked up to the truck, but when the guy turned his head, Officer M's head was right there in his window (seeing as how he's 6 foot 11 and all).

The driver told Officer M to get the f*ck off his truck. Officer M said I'm not on your truck, please give me your license and insurance. The driver again told the officer to get off his f*cking truck, to which Officer M responded the same.

The driver started to get a lil irate, so Officer M said okay. He raised his hands and walked 3 steps backwards. The driver quickly realized that he had been pulled over by a guy who was nearly 7 feet tall. OH!

He handed over his license and insurance. Quietly. :)

SOTD 7/16/08: No One, Alicia Keys

2008-07-16T08:05:00.003-05:00

I know some people search the world
To find something like what we have
I know people will try
Try to divide
Something so real
So till the end of time
Im telling you that

No one no one no one
Can get in the way of what I'm feeling
No one no one no one
Can get in the way of what I feel for you
Oh oh oh....

Ears

Forgot to add the pic of my aunt and uncle's backyard...

2008-07-15T17:29:00.000-05:00

All the rocket scientists are busy doing rocket scientry.

2008-07-14T22:06:00.008-05:00

Me: having walked up to Lane 1 with cart. Lane 1 has little white light illuminated
Team Member: "Lane 2 is closed, you'll have to go over to Lane 1"
Me: looking up, "Okay"
Team Member: "Lane 2 is closed, there's no one signed in."
Me: "Okay, sounds good"
Team Member: "Ma'am! You need to take your purchases over to Lane 1! Lane 2 is closed! Or you can go to any of the other open lanes."
Me: "I think I'm in Lane 1 already."
Team Member: "Oh. Sorry, I mean Lane 1 is closed, Lane 2 is open."
Me: "But the light's not on. I'm really more comfortable in a lane that's got the light on"
Team Member: "Oh...kay." walks away

Well, I have to get it out of my system somehow. ;) There is a very select population of people who can take what I dish out in this world, and, really, only one who can take it full strength. I know I aggravated the situation. I couldn't help it! It was served to me on a silver platter and you never want to anger the comedy gods.

Sometimes it's safer for me to let my aggression bleed out in situations like this than to take it out on the Skittle Eaters at work. Plus it was kinda funny. You don't go to hell for hassling unsuspecting service industry workers, do you? ;)

Five bonus points if you can tell me what commercial...

2008-07-14T21:59:00.003-05:00

this song is in (without googling it!). I really like this song too, I had no idea it was by Madness!

It Must Be Love

Speaking of string quartets...

2008-07-14T21:35:00.005-05:00

Well if I wasn't, I was about to. I really dig string music--it kinda turns me on. Course, then, so do drums...anyway...

Listen to this!

Or Dance Dance, if you'd prefer

I really like a widely varied selection of music types--I guess I like eclecticism in all that touches me, really. I'm a little bit in like with The String Quartet!

There's a Fall Out Boy song I need to find

2008-07-14T21:33:00.002-05:00

It's not Dance Dance, Sugar We're Goin Down, or Thanks for the Memories. I can't remember any of the lyrics or tune, but I know ever time it comes on the radio I love it.

Oh yeah, so there's a clue--it's been released to radio.

Any ideas--I'm open to just about anything at this point...must...find....song...

SOTD 7/14/08L Won't Go Home Without You, Maroon 5

2008-07-14T21:12:00.002-05:00

The words that would mend the things that were broken
But now it's far too late, she's gone away

Every night you cry yourself to sleep
Thinking: "Why does this happen to me?
Why does every moment have to be so hard?"
Hard to believe that

It's not over tonight
Just give me one more chance to make it right
I may not make it through the night
I won't go home without you

The taste of her breath, I'll never get over
The noises that she made kept me awake
Oh
The weight of things that remain unspoken
Built up so much it crushed us everyday

Every night you cry yourself to sleep
Thinking: "Why does this happen to me?
Why does every moment have to be so hard?"
Hard to believe that
[ Won't Go Home Without You lyrics found on http://www.completealbumlyrics.com ]

It's not over tonight
Just give me one more chance to make it right
I may not make it through the night
I won't go home without you

It's not over tonight
Just give me one more chance to make it right
I may not make it through the night
I won't go home without you

Of all the things I felt but never really shown
Perhaps the worst is that I ever let you go
I should not ever let you go, oh oh oh

It's not over tonight
Just give me one more chance to make it right
I may not make it through the night
I won't go home without you

It's not over tonight
Just give me one more chance to make it right
I may not make it through the night
I won't go home without you
And I won't go home without you
And I won't go home without you
And I won't go home without you

Audio

What is this a picture of, you ask yourself?

2008-07-13T15:50:00.002-05:00

Well, 5 seconds ago it was a picture of very loud baroque-period harpsichord music and my parents sharing a bag of Beer Nuts across the aisle.

*sniff* It just about brings tears to my eyes. ;)

(I'm 106 miles from Chicago. I'm in the back of the van. It's dark and I'm wearing sunglasses.)

The hot tub

2008-07-13T12:01:00.002-05:00

Alas, time to head back to the real world.

2008-07-13T11:29:00.002-05:00

I do, however, get to ride next to my funny and beautiful niecey though, so that does make the return trip worthwhile. (She's sleeping while holding my arm--if I move too much, she squeezes me. I love her :)

I'm trying to post a vacay pic I didn't post yesterday: it's the cedar hot tub (the round thing with the stovepipe coming out the top). My uncle and cousin put it together just like a whiskey barrel (no glue, just water-swelled wood. Fill it up with lake water and light the wood stove, 30 mins later you've got a hot tub!

They have a big wooden oar to stir the water to an even temp. For years I've been trying to get them to invest in some giant foam carrots and onions, cause when someone's stirring the tub from above, you kind of feel like...well...soup.

Peace and quiet...

2008-07-12T22:51:00.001-05:00

The grown-ups are still laughing and playing the bodhran and harmonicas in the room above my head, but I'm ready for sleep.

Sweet dreams everyone...

What a beautiful day :)

2008-07-12T20:40:00.002-05:00

Today was a day filled with the adventure of a power outage, rides on the pontoon boat, soaking ourselves im the wood-fired cedar hot tub, a little sunburn (curse of the irish!), lots of talking with my cousins, and good dinner :).

On tap for tonight? Illegal fireworks, ice cream, and the family harmonica and drum jam. So fun :) I'm pretty lucky.

My dad is whistling along to Beethoven's Ode to Joy

2008-07-11T13:59:00.002-05:00

...hellllp meeeeeee.....

It worked!

2008-07-11T10:40:00.001-05:00

Now lemme try a picture... It's me da, driving the lead car in the caravan :)