Monday, December 20, 2010

Maple & Brown Sugar

Holiday season means baking galore! And this year I decided to slave over a hot stove for hours to make tasty treats for my friends. So, spread over a few nights, and with Nolan's help cutting out endless amounts of christmas shapes from springerle dough, I came up with many delicious recipes that I'll definitely be using next year, including a double-layer peppermint bark one, that tastes just like the Ghirardelli's stuff - not too minty. I also enlisted the help of trusty Ash U, who mixed up some spritz dough like a pro and didn't even whine about it:

Of course we broke out the aprons, because if cookies aren't an apt occasion, I don't know what is.

This year, we forgot how we decorated with our strands of lights and actually made it reach around the whole floor while staying plugged in, so we decided to use less space, and get a little creative. So we took a box of t-pins, and started outlining, and here's what we came up with. I'm most proud of the tree:

And my attempt at a snowflake, which could also be a very loppy star of david outline...


Of course I have to follow those extremely pathetic pictures with pics of one of the departments here, that got super fancy and decorated every side of their floor with a different theme. The one I voted for? Winter Wonderland. You can't tell how awesome it is from this picture, but trust me. Even the wall behind the cubicles has icicles hanging on it. The whole thing was COVERED and it looked all icy and fabulous (click on it to enlarge):

Though I have to be very impressed with the actual tree and rocking chair and trainset, ETC. that this side brought in:

Let me tell you, it was depressing to come back downstairs to our grinchy little strings of lights.

All this makes me realize that I should beg for my own Christmas budget next year, or our floor will be stuck with t-pin christmas trees and loppy stars.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Sniff, sniff.

All day today I've been testing scenarios, testing materials, and testing cookies from our holiday cookie exchange. All tasty, all horribly calorific. It's like I've spent the morning stuffing chunks of lard down my throat washed down with sugar. Blech. But at the same time delicious.

Still feeling sick (maybe a little worse, so I think I'm in the throes of it now...which hopefully means it will be gone by the weekend?), and really all I can think of is how much sleep I need when sick, how much it affects short-term memory, and how wonderful Nolan is about taking care of me and babying me.

Also, all this mucus begs the question: How did people cope when there existed neither disposable handkerchiefs (kleenex) nor washing machines? I'd like to think that high-class 18th century society refrained from snot-rockets. Maybe this was why people used to die of colds. Maybe they actually drowned in their own fluids. Fascinating.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Blergh!

Due to the fact that I sleep with my eyes half-open (creepy, I know!), I wake up with dry eyes and sometimes feel extra-tired because of it. So, I invested in a plush eye-mask from Brookstone to keep my peepers shut. And I had nightmares about getting out of bed to put Milo out, and forgetting I had a mask on and falling and breaking myself and possibly Milo. But no, last night I was so paranoid about it, that I woke up, slid off the mask, and went to the door 3 different times during the night to let Milo out...who was still laying on the bed, watching me and undoubtedly wondering what I was doing. Turns out the booger slept until my alarm went off. Just to annoy me in my paranoia.

Also, I've been feeling THE SICKNESS coming on for a little while now, but this morning I definitely noticed a sick feeling. And now, here I sit, with full-blown runny nose, exhaustion, and sore throat. This morning I felt dizzy at the gym and thought maybe it was just tiredness but no. THE SICKNESS. Which is aptly capitalized because it happens so rarely and also because when it strikes, it strikes hard. And I hate it.

Friday, December 10, 2010

potty mouth

I hate raffles. Secretly I love them because I envision myself winning all sorts of fun stuff or them accidentally pulling my number twice so that I get the Starbucks gift cards AND the Trader Joe's bag o' goodies. But. In reality, I never win anything, so: I hate raffles, those teases. Last night at the Project READ Holiday Party, my learner and I were sitting there clutching our golden tickets waiting for our numbers, to no avail. So we sat and ruined our diets with giant pieces of peppermint bark and cookies. Meanwhile some kids next to us were claiming their winnings from the kids raffle and nearly coming to fisticuffs over the latest version of "Ripley's Believe It Or Not". After the whole thing, we made a restroom break before Nolan picked us up (cause he's pretty much amazing), and I made her take a picture of the reality of the Public Library's restrooms, in which I'm fairly certain at least 5 homeless people dwell, and of which the engineer should be fired. Not only are the doors too short, so that a person of my stature can easily peer out, but also it means people next to you can make eye contact with you while you're in your stall and events are taking place. Because across from the stalls are giant mirror-lined walls. Horror. I get stage-fright in public bathrooms anyway. Just look how awkward these stalls are, and imagine the giant mirrors where my learner is standing taking the picture:

Or is it more awkward that I had her take the picture, and we managed to also capture the head of the woman next to me?

The night before, Nolan helped me make gingerbread cookies with our cookie press for the party. On the box, it says gingerbread cookies work with the press, so I took that to mean that you can put gingerbread cookie dough in it, and use it. Apparently not. It's WAY too soft, even after hours of chilling, and comes out looking like your baby cousin's freshest diaper. We couldn't resist photo proof of this abomination, though I hesitate to post it just because it is, in fact, SO disgusting looking:

Sadly, when baked, these cookies weren't even photo-worthy because they turned from poop blobs on the sheet into perfectly round coin-shaped cookies. Round, delicious, and boring.

I also have to plug Ash U for her sweetest of all blogs this morning, because it made me feel emotional at work and NOTHING does that. Except my morning starbucks. Heh. We love you, Ash U!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

We are nationals

Sometime on Saturday, the Oregon Ducks went on to win their last game in their undefeated streak, effectively propelling them towards the national championship game. You can imagine that Nolan was ecstatic. Milo slightly less so, as it involved loud clapping and wild cheering. Either way, congrats to the Ducks, who had better win it in January, or I'll feel slightly cheated.

That same day, a Safeway driver delivered my groceries, which ASTOUNDED Nolan's uncle (who was watching the game with us). After all, how could we be so lazy! Lest you think less of me, let me assure you that not only is it foolish to abandon one's parking spot in this neighbourhood on a weekend, but also I spent enough at Safeway to get free delivery anyway, so why not? Among the items were those below, which clearly spell out BAKING if you look closely.

I mean, don't look too closely, it's really just symbolism.

Speaking of, his uncle brought us these festive poinsettias for the holiday season, and as much as I love them, I was desperately convinced they'd be reduced to stems within a day. Milo dearly loves to eat plants. HOWEVER, it's now Tuesday, and there isn't a single bite out of them! So far, I've only observed him sniffing the petals lovingly.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Hot to Trot

The Silver Fox just now sent me these pics, so I thought late was better than never to get these up. In case ANYONE was at all interested in our "turkey trot" in Oregon (which, incidentally, was a leisurely stroll along the highway to a coffee shop and back), here's the proof:

Here's a nice shot of Nolan being a total bad-ass with the dogs. And his bird perched on his arm like a falconer. In case you didn't notice, we all have birds strapped on somewhere. 'Twas one of the made-up rules that Anna imposed on us.


And of course a shot of everyone except for John, who was behind the lens. Nolan's arm looks less like a falconer here and more like he's trying to karate-chop Anna in the face.


This one has been labeled simply "the look" because apparently I do this a lot? All I remember was that John crowed after taking this picture because he caught me in a smirk after my dad said something to my mom that I THINK bordered on cheeky. This was while we were at the halfway point, which conveniently happened to be Dutch Bros Coffee.


Now, onto my weekend.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

O shiny christmas tree

Normally, I wouldn't post things like this, but the last one especially made me laugh so hard. A word of advice: turn off the sound to watch it because it's annoying and distracting:

Also, if any of you are going to nag on me for this CAN IT because yes, this year I went ahead and got a fake tree, BLASPHEMY! I know. But look, we're never here for the actual day and I don't want to schlep a tree all the way back from Delancey's when I could have a perfectly nice one that already has lights on it for the same price. Maybe when we have a house and actually will be there on the day, we'll go back to real.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Hairy Potter

This must be some kind of new record, but I officially finished my Christmas shopping yesterday! Amazing! And not even December! And our Christmas cards are on the way, along with our annual mug...here's a little preview of our picture for this year:

Pretty, eh? It's once again all thanks to ylehsa and her photo-editing skillz that we don't look like shiny-faced boobs.

Also, our building finally decorated the lobby per tradition this season, and they usually pick really classy arrangements for the elevator hallway...but this year? They apparently decided that "sparkly human hair" was an awesome theme:

For awhile I thought I was the only one who was thinking this, but I heard someone get into the elevator behind me and whisper to their colleague "...s'like golden locks of Marge Simpson", so I guess not.

Any of you who blasphemous fools who haven't seen the latest Harry Potter installment need to go do it. It's good. Ignore the reviews and just sit back and sip your Coke, dip your fist into that greasy bucket o' buttered popcorn, and enjoy.
I would post Thanksgiving pics, but seeing as how I didn't take any myself...Anna/John: consider this your cue to send me Thanksgiving pics :

Friday, November 19, 2010

rumbly in my tumbly

One of my coworkers was out of the office today, so he let me poach his ergonomic ball to perch on...since I've been jealously eyeing it for awhile and thinking it looked like fun. The truth: yes and no. Yes because it's easier to dance to pandora when you can bounce in place. Also stretching on it is nice. No because it made me feel slightly nauseous, and I can't figure out why.


I also decorated my cube today with some Christmas goodies, while burning a handful of Christmas music from my other coworker onto my computer. Although it looks small and pathetic in comparison to my feelings around the holiday, remember it is still mid-November, so more is yet to come. Besides, I have to remain somewhat professional, oui?


feeling: happy + nauseous

Thursday, November 18, 2010

feeling: lemony

Just as I am about to get my new yoga mat (thanks, ylehsa!), I was stretching before class today, and the instructor stooped and felt my mat and asked if I was getting a new one soon, and why there were huge chunks missing in mine. Obviously Milo's made an impression (as I pick a short white hair off of my artichoke this moment) wherever I go. So I told her I was getting one soon, and she brought over a nice bouncy lululemon one, and after I gave her a thumbs-up, she gave it to me! Because someone apparently had other things on their mind during class (shame shame!) and left it there several months ago. So now I have it, and immediately raced back to the office after class and scrawled my last name on the back of it with a Sharpie.

Dining: artichoke and coca tea
Reading: Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
Watching: Outsourced
Thinking: about Nolan coming home to me in 26 hours.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

reindeers on roses and whispers on kittens

In light of the holiday season FAST approaching, I took the opportunity of Nolan being away, and attacked the apartment with Ash U last night, with lights, ornaments, and random christmas janglies. Our home is now a delightful Christmas extravaganza, and I don't even care.
Milo got into the spirit too, donning his costume for this year, as last year's Santa costume is boring him:

Needless to say, he doesn't look pleased. Maybe I'll just stick him in the beanie I got him instead.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Cyborgs? I suspect Milo is one already.

Just when you thought technology couldn't advance any further, it pushes the limit again. Today I came across this, which seems to be proof that we are all going to be replaced by cyborgs (basically, robots that think for themselves). I mean, they've done it with rats, why not us?


A little further proof that we're becoming literally branded with our own technology. A little clunky, but hey:

Thursday, November 11, 2010

I've stumbled

A few times, I've stumbled upon (hah!) stumbleupon.com, which truly is a magnificent weapon against boredom/a surefire way to learn random trivia for those Monday night trivia pub nights. So I thought I'd start posting a couple of my favourites every day. Today's so far have been:
Simple ideas that are borderline genius
and
the vertical bed.

These are all things that I want, which is maybe why I liked them...but also I didn't feel like being a ridiculous cat lady and posting all the cutesy pictures of cats I stumbled upon. Which is to say, hundreds.

A client today sent me a 1lb box of Sees...which is great, except that I'm trying to eat BETTER, not worse. Also anything sugary is my Kryptonite. I can't bring it home, because then Nolan will whine at me for tempting him. As it is, he begs me to make chocolate chip cookies, says he'll die without them, so I bake delicious tender ones, and then he says to take them away from him RIGHT NOW. I'm not a cookie person, so I get rid of them, and then...
This is the circle of life, you see?
We tend to go from this:
funny GIFs - For me? You shouldn't have
see more Gifs
To this:
A Real Cookie Monster Gif - A Real Cookie Monster
see more Gifs

It disturbs me to think that I'll see these never-ending images on my blog for all eternity.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Fa ra ra ra ra, ra ra ra raaaaa

You guys: this weather is jerking me around. First it's hot, then it's cold. Then it's windy, omg so windy that my ponytail is flying around on its own broomstick and sticking to my chapstick. Then it's calm and warm...ish. And then BOOM right in the middle of that it rains. Which may not surprise anybody who knows warm + clouds usually signifies rain. But it wasn't really cloudy! And I got a cold coffee, so NO FAIR. However, I had been putting this off because my mind and my frolicking heart were warring over it, and this weather change pushed me over the edge:

I had a little party at my desk where I hosted the tree-lighting ceremony, officiated by me, and attended by me. Then I threw a piece of confetti in the air and popped open a pack of chocolate whoppers. Whew.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Toms Moroccan TV

This weekend, ylehsa came to visit, and we spent a whole weekend laying about, drinking far too much coffee, and shopping around downtown. We also saw a fearsome creature we dubbed an incarnation of the chupacabra, but I'll write about that later once she scans her sketch of it. Crazed yellow eyes, I tell you!

While shopping, I finally picked up a pair of TOMS, which I've been ogling forever but haven't found in person, and was too nervous to order them online due to my tiny feet. So I slipped a pair on, and decided on these:

LOVE. Now I'm just trying to talk Nolan into a pair (albeit a more manly pattern).

Also, I think fate decided that while we're spending money, that it's high time our television broke. So...we saw the dreaded stripe and blue screen of death on our TV, and Nolan decided to immediately go buy one. Granted, it was going to be his graduation present, but what's 6 months early? So we decided on this one:

Which is a nice change from our very old one, that randomly spouted streams of numbers across the middle of the screen during movies. Sigh.

Milo also got some new things this weekend, like a new bed (because he, erm, had an accident in his old one), and a new carrier for long roadtrips. He is really well-behaved in the car, don't get me wrong. It's more that he gets motion-sickness. And he can't do anything about it. And no matter how I try, I can't aim that spew into a bag. So, we don't really want to sully our new car with that, or I'd possibly toss Milo out the car window while driving (just kidding, PETA!). Lo and behold, I took the cagey front off the carrier, loaded it with plush blankets and tossed some treats in there, and he's been totally ignoring his plush new bed in favour of napping in his carrier. Who knew. As long as he stays that way and doesn't brace his feet against the doors to avoid going in, our trip to Oregon for Thanksgiving is going to be smooth sailing!

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Don't rain on my parade

Yesterday was the Giants' victory parade through downtown SF, and I think "exciting" would be the most understated way to say it. There was incredible noise, mess, and human bodies everywhere, and every time the crowd rallied while I was sitting at my desk, I kept thinking, "this motha's goin' down!" Not really. But kind of.

I've also never been a part of a ticker tape parade, so watching it from the 18th floor behind thick glass safely away from it all was pretty awesome.

Here's a close-up I stole from the SacBee:


After work, my department went out for cocktails and appetizers, and it was maybe the priciest drink place in the neighbourhood. Oh no big deal, this wine bottle's only $15,000.


I'd like to say my house was sparkling clean when I got back and Milo had a bow on his head and there was cider and a bath waiting for me, but alas my butler still only exists in my head, so I came home to Milo tearing up his favourite rug, the garbage can overflowing, and this on the stove:

...which seems to be evidence of two things:
1. Nolan needs to pay attention to his pasta (and eggs for that matter - I wish I had a dollar every time he exploded one).
2. My mother-in-law's wise choice of pots and pans to get us. At least this pasta-shell just peels right off!

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Halloween, Giants, and Top 100, oh my!

I feel like it would be a gross misrepresentation of my fan-ship to write all about the Giants on here and the World Series, and seeing as how everyone's heard it all on Facebook already, I'll just sum it up by saying YESSSSSSSSSSSS! and also that this city is STILL going nuts. Hopefully I can step out for the ticker tape parade tomorrow to celebrate. Hopefully nobody gets trampled by maniacal fans. Hopefully this means I can stop wearing orange and black. Even my beloved Boudins got in the spirit (but dually for Halloween AND the Giants!):

...my coworker left this on my chair last Friday. Apparently he snagged it from a kindergarten classroom (I'm not even joking!):


Also it's high time I posted my Halloween pics, so here they are! Obviously Brystal was the meat-dress Lady Gaga (check out those shoes!!!) and I was a lesser, poorer version of Poker Face Lady Gaga (I'll put the real version below for reference). Halfway through the night I realized I could just take off the do-rag and I'd be good to go as Sandy from the end of Grease. Booyah, dual use.


Here's the reference, of what I was going for:


And Ash U went as a Sham-Wow, which was basically the most clever costume ever, that she invented about 1 hour before we took these. Amazing! So we thought we'd take an action shot of Brystal using her new sham-wow on our dusty chairs.

I have to add, that Nolan went as a shadow, and made a darn good one...except we didn't get any pictures. Not that it would have shown anything in the dark anyway, since he was basically invisible! But oh well, he enjoyed making people feel awkward and nervous, so that's all that matters.

And another announcement: the starbucks holiday cups are in, and cuter this year! This makes me feel like Christmas all over again, so watch out Bing, here I come.


Yesterday, Nolan and I tried another item from the Top 100 list:
#49 - Ginger snaps from MietteThese little guys are SUPER SPICY, like a chunk of ginger just exploded in your mouth. But they're also buttery and delicious and crisp, and make me feel like decorating my house with fake snow and icing icicles and gumdrops on the walkway...or wait, that was my gingerbread house last year.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

9-0

Tonight was a night of mourning...for anybody from Texas. Seriously, talk about an embarrassing loss in the World Series to the Giants. I mean, I'm happy about it, but I just felt bad watching ball after ball after ball...51 pitches in the 8th inning from the Rangers, and that's AFTER the first 2 outs. Geeze. Let's go GIANTS!

On a slightly different note, my gym had it's Halloween celebration today, so they were giving off all sorts of freebies and food. I took part in the free spray tan (never done it before) and now look very sun-kissed! Perfect for my costume, haha! Though I'm still sticky a little bit AND I think I was grimacing during the spray due to it being cold, because my dimples are definitely still white among the tan of the rest of my face.

Yesterday, Nolan somehow got stung by a wasp on the BACK of his leg while running (is that even possible?), and has been limping around and moaning ever since. I meanwhile, have no pity because his life has been one giant vacation lately and will be for the next 2 months. Boo.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

the fleece effect

Sometimes when I reflect on my childhood, I just remember running barefoot through yards until the 5 o'clock horn blew. And building boats of banana boats to float down the muddy rivers. And climbing to the top of 60 foot pine trees to throw pine cones at cars passing by below (oops!). Needless to say, I lived in a world of alternate reality. However, articles like this one still don't manager to surprise me about PNG and the country I know/knew.

Continuing on our trend of eating through the Top 100, today I tried the fish tacos at Underdog's.
#10 - Nick's Baja-style fish tacos at The Taco Shop at Underdog's

Nolan had already had these, so I just went with a friend and brought him back one because they're so delicious. And this from someone who HATES fish of all kinds. Scrumptious!

We broke out the flannel sheets for the beginning of the real cold season here, and let me just say it was blissful. We nestled down into the clean, warm, soft flannel and conked out immediately for the best sleep I've had in awhile. Even Milo was peaceful (mostly).

Also today I had a mini panic-attack when I boarded the muni home, and there, jammed right next to me was a man with curly black hair. YIPES. In case you don't know me, KNOW THAT I FEAR MEN WITH CURLY BLACK HAIR. Not all, just ones with a certain look about him, and this one had it. Like he was hiding a hook on his hand under that trenchcoat of his. Why, you may ask? Have you ever seen The Fugitive? I saw it too early for my impressionable mind I guess, and have had an irrational fear of men with curly black hair very nearly as serious as my fear of sleeping in dirty sheets.

Monday, October 25, 2010

back in the swing

We've kinda been slacking on the 100 things to eat and drink before you die in SF list, but today we hit it again full swing! I stopped by the Ferry Building and other spots today and thought I'd hit as many spots as possible in an hour period. Only hit a few, but hey I'll take it. More to come tomorrow! Anyway, to kick things off:

#40 - Cheeseburger with sweet potato fries at Taylor's Automatic Refresher (now called "Gott's", but still the same thing, same menu)
This place was awesome. I was so hungry for the meal that I forgot to take the picture until I was almost done with my half...Nolan had the other half, since we both felt bad about having the whole thing. The fries were sweet and crispy, but with chili powder sprinkled on them, and a light sauce to dip them in. The burger was fresh and crisp, with delicious beef and sauces. Mmmm!


#28 - A Gibraltar at Blue Bottle Cafe
This place makes only the real stuff - no fluffy sweeteners or syrups, no diluted blends. Taking its roots from Turkish coffee, this place makes real coffee. And real delicious. The Gibraltar is basically a tiny latte in a tiny glass the size of about 2.5 shot glasses (that's a guess), and the glass itself is what is called the Gibraltar, which is how the drink got its name. 2 shots espresso, steamed hot milk with foam on top...voila! I was surprised to find that I actually LOVED this drink, even though it was super strong with absolutely no sugar. Though after I finished it, my tongue was buzzing, so who knows.


#87 - Sesame balls at Yank Sing
This place is known for greasy, but delicious and way overpriced Chinese food. Kind of a schmancy place. But the sesame balls, at a little over a dollar a pop, are delicious bean curd confections that taste like some asian bean version of a funnel cake. Tasty!


I also had to stop at Boulette's larder, even though they aren't on the list (they should be!), for some of their sea salt brownies, which are actually cookies. Tiny little things, but tasting like cocoa with sea salt on top and mixed in. SO DELICIOUS.



Yesterday, Nolan and I took our pumpkins over to Ash U's house, and carved them up, and made a homemade pumpkin pie from the innards of one of them (it was awesomely tasty!), and roasted the seeds from the others for salads (thanks, Mom for the idea). There was cider, Sinatra, scones, and candy corn, and I feel so holiday-ish anyway that it was good times. Nolan was originally going to make an intricate carving of a spider in a web, but gave up after 2 cuts in the pumpkin and decided to carve Milo's name and profile into his pumpkin in the end. I went with an owl in a tree and a slivered moon. Nolan's STILL looks better if that's possible. Milo's a big fan of both, as we've been sticking treats in there to get him to fish around through the holes with his paw.


ylehsa sent me this blog today, which makes me feel better about going to IKEA solely for the swedish meatballs.

Quote of the day:
My mother-in-law: "Does Nolan have a thing for your clothes??? LOL John loved some of mine because they were soft so he could polish his toys."

Friday, October 22, 2010

At a breakneck pace

In some small way,I think listening to Christmas music too far in advance of the season robs you of the joy it brings the day after Thanksgiving when most Scrooges out there finally sigh and turn to the one station that shares my early sentiment. Or create a new Pandora playlist. And yet here I sit, robbing myself of that joy I could be experiencing later more fully, but telling myself it doesn't matter, because have I EVER gotten sick of Christmas music, EVER? This from the girl who pulls out the holiday singles in June. I also have no problem justifying it because I know the INTENSE SORROW that January 1 will bring as I am forced to take down the tree and delete my pandora playlist and wait another year until Christmas.

I'm also thoroughly enjoying the empty gym. As the holidays are upon us and swimsuit season is over, there is a dramatic lack of people in the gym when I go, even in my yoga class. I can now show up and fully expect to have one of the small exercise balls all to myself, whereas before I'd have to wrap my legs around a giant one, and I know for a fact that I heard a few sniggers behind me. Of course when everyone is back to work on January 4, 2011, the gym will be packed with all those "resolution" folks, hoping to buoy their doomed aspirations at least a week until that chili dip calls their name and they forsake the gym altogether.

Giants lost last night, but chances at the World Series aren't doomed yet! Meanwhile, the Ducks absolutely ANNIHILATED UCLA last night. Yes Nolan, even though I wear my Ducks shirt to bed, I do, in fact, care.

Today also marked the first day of wearing boots for the season, which although it seems like a small marker, actually means I can start tromping in puddles and making applesauce and crocheting my never-ending blanket (which I started in 2007 when we moved to SF, and is still waiting to be finished) and watching old classics with Jimmy Stewart and maybe even new classics like...Harry Potter. For now I'm content with passing my days at work, running through the rain to my yoga class, eating a crunchy salad, and sipping a hazelnut latte while I plug along and listen to my Christmas playlist. And my nights are some blissful combo of all of the above, except I also get to add Nolan and Milo into my equation.

Days Until Thanksgiving Break: 32!
Days Until Christmas: 63!

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Why can't blackcurrant tea taste like it smells? Why?

Back to yoga today after a week's hiatus due to Health Fair mania. But good ole Sandy was out and a new teacher was taking her place. And the energy he had...whoo. I haven't actually felt like sitting down on my crappy little mat with claw marks in it (because someone thinks it's a scratching toy) and sobbing because my arms were sore in quite some time. Bravo.
ps - get me a new mat for Christmas. thx.

Trader Joe's has these little microwave meals that are generally pretty awesomely delicious. But. I tried one awhile ago that was like...couscous with roasted veggies and garlic and parmesan. It never made it to my mouth because while I kept it in my insulated lunch bag in my locker while at the gym in the morning, it melted and I had melty eggplant and couscous juice dripping out of my bag and on my stuff. I tried to laugh it off and told a girl on my floor at work that it was like junior high all over again, but she just gave me a blank look which told me that kind of thing never happened to her. Awkward. Anyway, so I still wanted to try it - it sounds delicious! Right? NOPE. Not only was it still drippy (this time I kept it cold and in the fridge the whole time!), but it was also DIS.GUS.TING. Also the juices ran all over my hands and MUST have gotten on my water bottle, because I was sipping it and all I could smell was this weird rotten plastic/fish smell. I had my coworker sniff it and she didn't notice anything funny. Who knows. So I tossed it and opened a new bottle. And then microwaved a leftover lean pocket that I had sitting in the fridge. Yay.

After some quality hours of sleep yesterday, I feel almost fully better now - and better rested. Just in time for the weekend to sleep even more, hah!

Alas, no amount of rest can get me back into scrapbooking mood. I want to facebook and watch new episodes of Outsourced and eat cereal and crochet and stroke Milo and hurtle into Nolan's stomach when he walks in the door, but not scrapbooking. It's about now that I think I've scrapbooked myself to death, and can't force myself to do it, or it'll turn out to be some sloppy photos of an ocean pasted over a Mexican coin with maybe some cornflakes and bits of Milo's fur stuck in the glue. So I'll stop until I feel like it again.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Tines of Power

Even though I'm sitting apart in "my room" which is formerly the guest room (and will be if you come to visit, promise!) and scrapbooking space, I know the Giants just won the game tonight, because of a lone shriek of joy that I heard from across the street. Confirmed by Nolan and also the fireworks I'm now hearing lit. One more game, and SF is golden for their ticket to the World Series!

I had to go home sick from work today, and I'm not sure if it was because of the flu shot/H1N1 combo vaccine I got yesterday, or the lack of sleep I've endured recently. Probably both. I'm a strictly 8-hours of sleep a night person, or else I feel the effects of it sorely. Who knows why. Anyway, so I came right home, and crumpled onto the bed in "my room" for a few hours to nap with Milo while Nolan worked at his desk. Feeling ok, but still looking forward to more rest tonight.

Therefore, last night's Hockey game was probably not the best idea, as I was feeling a little queasy even then, but I thought I'd push through it. It was a sad loss of the Sharks to the Carolina Hurricanes, but exciting for us - our first NHL game! And free tickets, my boss's boss's boss gave us his super nice-seat tickets (and also to my coworker, who came and brought his son). Good times. Couldn't have asked for better seats, made even better by Nolan's hot latte and my tasty garlic fries. Check out how close we were to the ice! We could practically smell the blood as they rammed into the glass every 30 seconds. Evidence:




This past weekend I was up in Placerville visiting my parents, and though Saturday was pretty hot again (I spent the entire day in shorts still!), Sunday was actual fall weather, and there was ample feeling of autumn when my mom was helping clean the pool. Nothing like a gigantic crunchy leaf to remind you that it's almost the holidays!

Friday, October 15, 2010

M&M

I made the mistake of watching Marley & Me tonight. All I can say is that now not only do I want a puppy even MORE than before, but also my eyes are nice and moistened because my mom and I were sitting here SOBBING for the last 20 minutes of the movie. Maaarrrrlllleeeeeeey!

Another mistake: drinking a big bottle of water all in the car on the way up here. I was quite literally doubled over in the car until I was so blinded that I had to take the nearest exit and beg. This also could be because I was putting on my makeup this morning at 4:45am, and lived only on coffee. It does that to you. Speaking of which: my friend pointed out that I am the soccer mom of these. Who knows what that says.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

you.crew

Apparently, there's a new Goodwill 1 block from our house. I usually hate Goodwill stores (hah, I have no goodwill towards them), but thought I'd go in with Ash to look for Halloween stuff. And instead I found a cute J.Crew shirt (who knew?) and it's pink and sparkly and $5, which is basically a recipe for LOVE. Also FUN. Now the only issue I have is finding a time to actually wear this:

Also, ignore my pink eyes - I've been forced to wear my glasses for a straight week now because of weird dry eyes. BOO.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

underground

A friend and I were talking today about how amazing it must be to be one of those miners who were trapped under the ground for 69 days, and finally be hoisted up in this claustrophobic little cage to see your family and the sunlight again for the first time in over 2 months. It makes me wonder if those miners want to never see each other again, or if they've bonded like a family? And if they're going back to their jobs (My guess would be no)? And. and. So many questions. Such an interesting situation down there, but I echo Obama's sentiments that their tears of joy are our tears.

The heat wave here in SF hasn't actually been felt as strongly as I thought it would. They kept saying "excessive heat, beware!" practically implying we'd all metl into nothing unless we locked ourselves in our freezers. Apparently not, and just like good old days, excessive heat just means over 70.

Since I've been babysitting this week instead of hitting the gym early, I have been trying to fit in workouts more creatively. So although I always miss seeing Nolan when he has to be in class late, I secretly enjoy that it means I can work out in my living room with the Wii and not risk being laughed at. Because oh yes, it is laughable.

Quote of the day:
DG: "so I found a picture of the first Chilean miner to emerge from the tunnel..."

Monday, October 11, 2010

Voldything

Fall is truly the beginning of all things awesome in the year. Like, Christmas, Starbucks' holiday drinks, decorations, peppermint bark on sale, and the second-to-last Harry Potter movie. Speaking of which, tonight is Harry Potter night at Ash U's, and we're watching the 6th one, and I'm having another coffee right now so I can make sure and not fall asleep.

I start babysitting again this week in the mornings (Tues-Fri), so if you talk to me, expect clipped, tired-sounding sentences, because as if getting up so early wasn't enough, those kids wear me out! The positive? Money for all of your Christmas presents: done. Also driving their car to work instead of taking the muni is pretty awesome.

I feel like Darcy has been a new addition to the family rather than just my insurance policy. I have been looking for excuses to drive him around or tag along with Nolan so I can test out the backseat. The only downside is that now I feel like I need to wash him every 2 days to keep him shiny and sparkly! Mostly because cars in the city get SO dirty SO fast, and I just never realized it until we had a car with a nice paint job. Huh.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Flying Machines of Death

Apparently it's Fleet Week already again here in San Francisco (which means any Indian summer we could have had is probably gone, SOB), because all day we've been swooped on by jets tearing through the sky. Even during yoga it was crazy loud, ripping the atmosphere. I heard one of my coworkers admiring the jets, while another was muttering "I think it's terrifying."

Mostly today I'll just put up some quotes of the day, since I couldn't decide which one to use:

In reference to this post:
My dad: "Ironically, my rental is a new corolla. She's red and definitely female, proud, a bit impertinent but I fancy her none the less. I think I shall call her Elizabeth!"

And:
Ash: ps it smells like your building out here
Anneliese: hahah omg wait i've got it: moldy kibble + urine + chinese food + grease
Ash: all those PLUS dog
Anneliese: oh. sometimes we have that too, but i get it mixed up with the kibble
Ash: i know because our vacuum still smells like buddy...and that's it plus like humidity

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

The Civilized West

It's no secret that I am a huge fan of celeb sites and general mind-trash like people.com, gofugyourself.com, etc. Hey, I'm educating myself in the fine art of "pop culture". Also when we have trivia nights I know all those random facts that nobody else pays attention to. Oh yeah. So maybe it's not the most intelligent fluff to fill my head with, BUT STILL. So when I saw this article posted, I felt vindicated because I knew it would give at least one person a laugh. Also I am considering mailing this woman a check :)
Massachusetts Woman Threw Dog Poop In Driver's Face
I guess if we move to Boston, we'll just have to drive nice and slow in residential neighbourhoods.

Why is it that when you get something new, you feel a compulsion to check on it all the time? Like, that car isn't going anywhere and it is parked on a nice safe curb, but I still feel like I have to go look at it each day just to make sure, even though I regularly forgot about the old car. On another note, my nightmares have disappeared, so I'm back to my regular old dreams, like about Milo and flying and occassionally the circus.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Darcy.

As promised, even though I'm DEAD TIRED, I have my news and photos...we bought a car on Sunday! I know, right? Quick work after what just happened to the other one. But really, I have been looking at these for quite some time, and was only too ready to move forward. And what a deal! We ended up getting a 2010 Toyota Corolla! And it's sparkly black, and if you've ever known me, you know how I love sparkly things. Also I've always wanted a black car...let's face it there is a lot I have always wanted in this car. I even asked Nolan's permission to name it: Darcy. Mostly because I've been in a Jane Austen mood lately and cannot resist. Actually Nolan's been pretty overall amazing in helping/supporting me through the crash and getting a new car in general. So I suppose he's going to want that backrub now, thankyouverymuch.

...Except he just looked at the pictures below and said, "You know what those pictures look like to me? Look like it's parked on a Tuesday (streetcleaning side). Hrmmm."

Here are a couple shots I took today while admiring it. So pretty!



Also, while we speak, Milo is gnawing on the leftover crusts of our Pizza Hut excursion tonight (Nolan's treat for taking me to the dealer on the motorcycle even though it was cold and windy), and sneezing in his excitement to eat it all before he thinks we notice him. Little beast. The other day I tried to get on camera his playtime with his little felt mouse, but all I got was him watching it stupidly:

And eventually making a grab for it:


In all seriousness, I am convinced I have PTSD from the car accident. I haven't slept since, because I have been waking up every 15 minutes after the same nightmare over and over again, with the most intense stress I have ever experienced, except last night I was in the new car when I crashed it. UGH. I can practically taste the ulcers. And it made getting up at 5:40 to hit the gym downtown really fun :(