Silly

Merry Christmas

2011-12-22T17:47:00.003-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

GONE???

2011-09-07T16:38:00.002-05:00

Sorry that I haven't posted in forever. I have had a lot of other things on my mind and I just haven't been motivated to write. My biggest distraction was and still is the loss of my husband's job. I have my fingers crossed that something will turn up soon.

HORRAY FOR HOLLYWOOD!

2011-02-27T15:58:00.005-06:00

Oh how I LOVE watching the Oscar's. I am going to a friend's tonight to watch. I have been watching them since I was little. I always have silly acceptance speeches going through my head after I watch. (You know..what I would have said!!) I know it's a silly fantasy but I am sure there are a lot of people that do the same thing. I can't wait!

Lisse' Leggings

2011-02-13T09:22:00.009-06:00

Today I am going to try these:

Lisse'Leggings

I wonder if they are as great as they say. I am going to try a pair at the local Anthropolgie. They are not too expensive and if they work like the video shows....I am all for it.

I hoping they become a great staple in my wardrobe.

UPDATE:

I LOVE THEM!!!

ANN TAYLOR

2010-12-28T13:28:00.002-06:00

I am going to Ann Taylor after work today. I am going to do some major damage. I have a lot of gift card $$ that needs to be spent! Plus they have the entire store at 40% off.

I will update later with my finds! Hopefully I will find something to wear for New Years!

WIN THIS AWESOME BEDDING!!

2010-12-01T20:06:00.001-06:00

LOVE THIS!!! Awesome Prize!!

Your chance to win a Free Luxurious Organic Cotton Bedding Package from Gaiam.com.

MOVING APARTMENTS

2010-07-10T13:39:00.003-05:00

Yuck..I hate moving but I will be doing it come late August. I am in the process of major decluttering! I keep too many things for too long. So that's my project the next few weeks..along with boxing stuff up. Even though I hate this process I CAN NOT WAIT to get out of here...many issues have happened last year that I won't get into yet..but the gist is that this place has been one BIG headache after another...Sept can't come fast enough!

LAZY

2010-05-26T19:28:00.002-05:00

I have just been so LAZY this year with my blog. I just am having a hard time wanting to write. I want to write and talk about stuff, but I just don't really make a point of doing it.

I have started a few posts..oh that would be a good one..but I never finish it. I have a lot of projects going on in my head that I just don't complete them when I want to. Major PROCRASTINATION!!!

One thing that I have to get started on is purging and packing my apartment. Yeah- I won't be moving to the end of the summer...but it's almost June...WHAT???

Jon McLaughlin

2010-04-25T18:36:00.009-05:00

I got to see Jon McLaughlin this past Wednesday night. I adore his music. I have been listening to him over and over since then. The concert was just FANTASTIC!

I knew I liked his stuff, but after seeing him live...I like it even more. I can't WAIT until he comes back to Chicago. He is definitely someone that I don't want to miss!!

He has two albums: "Indiana" and "OK NOW". He also has some older stuff on Itunes that was just released. He's music is a little like John Mayer, but instead of a guitar he plays the piano. It's just unbelievable how good he is.

I brought a friend with me to the show...she didn't know much about him. Now after seeing him...she loves his music as much as I do. I now know that I have someone that will always go and see him too! It also helps that he is gorgeous!! Come back soon Jon!

Being Erica

2010-01-28T19:57:00.004-06:00

I recently started watching "Being Erica" on SoapNet. LOVE THIS!!! I am addicted. It's just such a fun show to watch and not cheesy and over dramatic. It's also very thoughtful. It's about a girl that gets to rewrite/ or do over things in her past. Don't we all have some regrets?? She learns to use that knowledge for the present. It's a show that's done in Canada..so why is it on SoapNet?? Don't know, but check it out!

DC Here I Come!!

2010-01-17T14:37:00.002-06:00

I am leaving next week for Washington D.C.. A good friend of mine is getting married there. It's going to be spectacular!!!

There are so many activities planned that I am sure I will feel as if I am at a Hollywood wedding.

Can't wait!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T20:23:00.002-06:00

Happy Holidays! Hope everyone has a wonderful time with your family and friends!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-24T19:35:00.002-06:00

I know this is a little early...but I'll will be away from a computer for a bit.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Enjoy the time with family and friends!

Blogoversary TODAY

2009-11-04T10:05:00.003-06:00

Yeah..I have been writing for my blog for 2 Years!! Time sure flies!

Bachlorette Party in FL

2009-10-14T18:35:00.000-05:00

YEAH..the time has come that I will be in Florida soon. I am going to Fort Lauderdale this Friday. I am going to celebrate a good friend's upcoming marriage. She is getting married in DC this winter. Which is another exciting story and I will expand on later once I get closer to the date.

Anyway, I am flying to Florida for the long weekend. There are going to be 21 of us girls....holy estrogen!! We are staying in a frickin' mansion on the beach. YEAH!! We are going to South Beach in a limo on Sat. night. Yeah I can't wait. It almost feels a little surreal. And the best part....it's warm...really warm and sunny there right now. Good bye 40 Degree weather. Time to hit the BEACH!!!

Olympics for Chicago???

2009-10-02T15:23:00.002-05:00

NO!! -- I couldn't be happier!! Let's see how they will spin this big loss. We were the 1st to be eliminated. Come on Daley who didn't get paid?

I am going to have a few drinks tonight to soak in this victory. Enjoy the weekend!

Meet Ups

2009-09-09T19:28:00.005-05:00

Well I did it. I joined a meet up group called: Ladies, Short Stories, and Cocktails! They meet once a month on a Thrs. night. I am going in early October. Very excited. We are reading stories by John Cheever. I haven't started them yet but I plan to get through them shortly. The first thing that popped in my head though was the Seinfeld episode called the Cheever's letters. Kramer burned down Susan's Dad cabin and all was left was the Cheever letters...yeah I digress. But that's what came to mind right away.

I joined some other meet-up groups...one about cooking, another girl social and one about coffee and chocolate. Hopefully I will have a bunch of upcoming adventures soon and I get out of the house more.

Hope everyone had a great 9-9-09 today. (I just had to mention it!!)

Where did All my FRIENDS GO???

2009-08-27T19:37:00.001-05:00

Why is it that all my girlfriends seem to be gone??

Well-I knew this was going to happen. A friend of mine told me about this exact thing a few years ago. A lot of friends were getting married around that time--not I. I didn't get married until I was in my 30s. She told me that their priorities were going to change and we wouldn't relate much anymore. A lot has held true.....a large portion of my friends have their own families now and staying in touch with them just doesn't happen. Which is kinda weird with email, Facebook, cell phones? You think I would have lots to hang out with. But because we don't see each other everyday like school or work and I guess people forget about people...

A handful of friends have moved to different states...Washington D.C, Michigan, California...but a large group has moved to the different suburbs of Chicago. My husband feels bad for me b/c I seem to have no friends around. I gotta join some sort club or something to try to meet people. I just need a little girl time!! Maybe a bookclub might work?? I need to find something before winter comes..at least in the summer there are lots of events and I don't feel bored. But winter STINKS....and having some girls to hang with might help it goes faster. Well see!

Baxter

2009-08-23T18:28:00.005-05:00

I think my dog knows when I want to be alone and work on the computer. I am not on it a lot during the weekends. Joe is though b/c it's fantasy football time....yeah I will be a football widow for sometime now though the fall and winter.

Anyway, Here is a great picture of him right after we gave him a bath. (Joe's skinny feet are in the background.) He is always giving me this look when I am on the computer...and he likes to whine just a tad that makes me want to play with him so he stops! (I know I give into him!)

Why can't he take naps when I want him to? Yeah, I need to treat him like a kid..he craves attention and something to keep him busy. Walks do the trick and tire the little boy out. And if it's a bit warm that even tires him out more. Oh he might drive me a little crazy at times, but when I am away from him too long..I miss my Baxter!! He is just too cute that you can't stay mad at him for long.

Some Vacation Pics

2009-08-02T18:32:00.007-05:00

I know that I have been slacking on the blog. Gosh when you go out of town the past two weekends...time flies by. So I am going to post a few pictures of my trip to Pittsburgh that I went on during the last week of June...

Picture taken outside our hotel room. .We stayed on the 33rd floor..pretty cool!

Me as a Pittsburgh Penguin Hockey Player....Yeah I am big enough to play hockey!

Joe as Honus Wagner...famous baseball card.

Joe & I outside PNC park by the Roberto Clemente statue.

More pics and stories to tell about this trip. I will try to get to them this week. Hope everyone had a great July!

Royce

2009-07-16T19:29:00.007-05:00

I am starting back on my blogging with a sad note. I figured I should get this out and then I don't have to think about it anymore....

When my husband and I got back from our vacation, my friend that was watching Baxter for a few days had asked if I could watch her dogs on the upcoming Friday, July 3rd. I was willing b/c she just had watched Baxter for 3 days...we had him in a dog care for 2...and it was only go to be a day. So anyway she had brought her dogs over early on Friday. My husband and I had left for the Cubs game before 11..we were meeting his brother..it was a fun day.

So we got back to our apartment around dinner time....needed to take all of them out. This is when it gets bad!!..Royce who was a min-pin was crazy!! We only went around the apartment and the little guy wiggled his way out of his harness. Not just a leash around his neck, but a 3-looped harness. Well he got out and ran right into 2-lane traffic. The dog got hit head on. I think he died instantly.
I didn't want to believe it. I kept calling my friend...probably about 10 times before I got a hold of her. (She was at the race track to watch fireworks) I told her that Royce escaped and got hit..the first thing she said was that she knew this was going to happen b/c this has happened before. She chased him down railroad tracks before. I was pretty shocked. I had no idea that he was so wild. It made me feel better....but I guess I was still in shock. She wanted to know about her other dog..and he was just fine. I made Joe tell her that he had passed. I couldn't say it.

So I am ending this post with a adorable picture of Baxter and Bentley and Joe. The rest of the holiday we all hung out together and tried to forget the horrible incident that just occurred. I know it's not my fault..it just eats at you b/c it's something you shouldn't have to ever see.

I'm Back!!

2009-07-14T16:21:00.002-05:00

I have a tons of stuff to write about and lots of pictures to share. Updates will be coming soon. Hope everyone had a Great 4th!!

Vacation!

2009-06-26T09:34:00.004-05:00

My husband and I are going on vacation this Sunday! We are going to watch a few baseball games in Pittsburgh. I also have some family that lives there, so it will be great to see them too. We come back to the city in the middle of the week...and then we have a lot of Holiday Plans here. So it's kinda busy, with some relaxing time also....CAN'T WAIT!

The best part of this vacation is that I am away from work for 9 WHOLE days! That's just FANTASTIC!! Hope everyone has a great holiday!!

What should I write...?

2009-06-14T14:46:00.006-05:00

It never fails that throughout the week I think of a few good things to write, but I never get around to it. So when a few weeks go by and I have some time to add to my blog, I go blank. I must keep a journal or something with ideas. It doesn't need to be anything special, just someplace where I can keep a running list.

I wasn't an English or Literature major. Not that I couldn't do it, I just was a lot better with science and math. I know BORING...but that stuff just clicked better with me. When I started this blog...back in fall of '07, I just wanted to break out of my shell somewhat. Try something new. So this is a work in progress. There are always a ton of thoughts running through my head...I just need to keep track of them because they do get lost pretty fast.

sTori Telling

2009-05-26T20:27:00.005-05:00

Well... I kinda got off my list of books just a tad.
I had recently traded a book to receive
"sTori Telling" by Tori Spelling.

Guess what I did on Memorial Day.... I read the entire book!! Well obviously it was a fast read for me. I said before that once I get done with a few books....my reading speed picks up even more. My husband was quite amazed at how fast I have been blowing through books...

Anyway..I have started watching some of her reality shows and was curious to read her book. It wasn't the best read ever, but certainly better that I thought.
I also felt that she was vague on things throughout the story.

I was curious to read about what dirt she would spill on "Brenda" but really she didn't tell me anything I didn't already know. I am not knocking the book..I just thought it could have been meatier so to speak.

I do plan to read her other book that has recently come out. She can definitely keep someones interest. Her lifestyle is something that I can only image and that what was the interesting part of the whole story.

Swaptree Obsession

2009-05-12T20:01:00.001-05:00

OK, My newest obsession has been with this site!

SWAPTREE!!!I LOVE IT!! I have traded away some books that I have read to receive other books and movies and CDs. So I'm finally cleaning out some things that I have been holding onto for too long. I am getting items that I don't have to buy...and the best part is that once I am done with the new things...I can then trade them for something else. Can't beat it!

All it costs to join is the postage to send the items. You can print labels through them or use the post office. You can also put your account on vacation when you are going to be away for a bit.

Very useful! YEAH!!!

OK OK

2009-05-04T10:49:00.006-05:00

Well I have busted through two books on my list already. On to the third....wish I could make that kinda of progress on my cleaning/ organizing project. I just do not want to do it!! Yeah.. I sound like a spoiled brat!

I think b/c I am somewhat overwhelmed about where to start that I never really get going. So I have basically spent a month trying to start and not doing much. I haven't really made much of a dent yet. Avoidance is the killer....You can avoid things for so long but then they you always need to do them. "Just get it over with" is going to be a phrase that I keep reciting to myself for the next few weeks. If I don't tell myself that over and over...I'll put things off for another month!

Books...must started reading!!

2009-04-19T13:17:00.005-05:00

Right now I have a ton of books that I want to read. So what did I do yesterday, but pick up two more at Barnes and Noble...and I have two others coming from Amazon. Not to mention I must have at least 10-15 here at home waiting for me. OK OK ....I need to clean and organize today and get back on my declutter plan. I must have a big dent done before May comes!! (I am such a procrastinator!!) Here is the list of books I want to read and the order...subject to change if I start to lose interest.

"The Reader" Bernhard Schlink
"Love the One You're With" Emily Giffin
"Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist" Michael J. Fox
"Columbine" Dave Cullen
"The Time Traveler's Wife" Audrey Niffenegger
"The Hour I First Believed" Wally Lamb
"Confessions of a Shopaholic" Sophie Kinsella
"Water for Elephants" Sara Gruen

I know this list has a little bit of everything so here's to hoping that I can accomplish my major declutter project and really start reading a lot. I know that once I get going I can speed through books. It usually takes me one or two reads and then I really notice that my speed has gone way up. It's almost a little scary how fast I can read when I devote a good chunk of time to practicing that skill! Yeah....I want that skill back!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T08:43:00.002-05:00

Baxter

2009-04-02T20:30:00.003-05:00

I just had to post a new picture of him. He is such a good dog. He is sitting so nice and good in our cluttered back room. (It won't look like that in the next few weeks!!)

Baxter has been such a treat to have in our lives. We plan to take him to the dog park and play his favorite game "ball" this weekend. Hopefully it will be a lot nicer than last...SNOW what was that about??

Ok...Now What?

2009-03-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

This month has flown by...so much faster than Feb. I thought that month was never going to end.

Right now, I am in a major spring cleaning mode. It never fails that over the winter stuff just collects and collects. Where does all this stuff come from??

I am cleaning everything..bathroom, kitchen, living room, bedroom...I am creating a major junk pile in each room. What don't I need anymore? Too much clutter. I hold on to things too long. It drives my husband nuts!!

I am also making a list of stuff to donate. I have been putting that off for too long. Mainly clothes and shoes. There is a lot that I don't wear anymore and it's just got to go!! I am hoping to see major progress this weekend...and I fully plan to have everything done in 2 weeks. Once it gets nicer outside I am not going to want to do this and it will wait till next Spring. I know myself too well and I am such a great procrastinator!!

Junior Achievement Fundraising

2009-03-23T15:24:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday, April 7th, I'll will be bowling to raise money for Junior Achievement of Chicago.

Thank you for visiting my Personal Fundraising Page and considering being a sponsor. Every $500 can bring JA's programs to an entire classroom of students for a semester. This covers all program materials, volunteer training, supplies, service and evaluation for each of the classes taught by business volunteers. JA's programs are free to the schools. Your fundraising helps JA to empower youth through education and each donation is tax deductible too!!!

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. Many thanks for considering!!

Why so angry?

2009-03-16T12:12:00.003-05:00

I swear everyday I come into work...my patience is gone and I become snappy at everything. I guess I am just really tired of doing everything myself and I become irritaed at every little thing...UGH!!! I can't be the only one that gets like this? I am a pretty easy-going person...but not lately. Hopefully things will start to change soon, because I can stand the person that is always talking in a sharp tone!!

Love....Stains

2009-02-28T14:32:00.006-06:00

I couldn't stop laughing about this. It's great.

I feel so bad for the dog...he just wants some cupcakes. Don't we all want some cupcakes? I wouldn't turn them down!!

MIA

2009-02-18T21:23:00.003-06:00

Sorry that I have been MIA for awhile. Life has been hectic the past few weeks. On a sad note my husband's grandmother past away recently. So I was helping him deal with that...he is doing fine. He knew that this might be coming soon, just didn't expect it to be so sudden. It's such a weird thing about funerals and death, because once you hear of someone....then the flood of many more seem to happen. At least that has been my experience lately. Death is a part of life. And I tend to forget to be grateful for each and every day without that reminder.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-01-29T09:20:00.001-06:00

Another year has past....time flies!! Even though the weather is cold here..the future is bright.
Yeah---I love my birthday!

Procrastination

2009-01-25T14:23:00.007-06:00

Sometimes I can be my worst enemy. I love putting off stuff that I need to do.:

1. I have Insurance CE tests to take.
2. I need to clean my apartment.
3. I need to do laundry.
4. Other misc cleaning projects that I need to finish...organizing old magazines.

Ok..so I listed them...let's hope this makes me get a lot done!!Rock On!

2009....

2009-01-14T19:15:00.005-06:00

Well the new year has started. I look a little dazed in this picture on New Year's Eve. I had a great time though....it was so nice that a lot of people stayed home. It wasn't very crowded and we all could relax and not worry about the crowd or....."How are we going to make it the bathroom & or will there be a HUGE wait?" It was very refreshing!!

The weather that we have been having in Chicago is the worst!!! It better be somewhat nicer for my birthday at the end of the month! Be thankful if you don't live here. It's the pits right now. I am not taking that as a sign of a bad year...I can't think like that...only postitive thoughts for 2009. Happy New Year All!!

What happened to the holiday?

2008-12-28T16:15:00.007-06:00

Time has flown. Baxter is wondering why the break has gone so fast!

The weather here in Chicago has been horrible. My husband & I didn't get to go see his family over the holiday b/c of the weather. We needed to drive there b/c of Baxter and it was too risky with how bad the weather was...snow, ice, rain....We are planning to go down over the long weekend holiday of Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday..weather permitting. Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday!

Help- Christmas Shopping

2008-12-09T10:22:00.004-06:00

I really enjoy this season, but I get so annoyed with Christmas shopping. I have been doing a lot of online shopping this year...mainly from sellers at Etsy. I love the unique gifts that I find there. I am almost done...YEAH!! I just can't stand the amount of time I devote to thinking about it and then trying to find a certain item. I don't want to get the same gift over and over..so I need to think about when was the last time the person got something like this...

Sorry to rant...I am sure there are other people out there that have similar thoughts.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T12:55:00.005-06:00

Louie?

2008-11-22T16:04:00.003-06:00

My husband and I just adopted Louie....We are going to decided this weekend if we want to keep that name or not. He is such a little sweetheart. So happy that he could join our family!!

New Dog

2008-11-16T12:42:00.000-06:00

My husband and I are planning to get a dog before Thanksgiving. We are going to adopt from a shelter. Some people have asked what "breed" do you want? We aren't too picky. We are trying to get a dog that is on the smaller/medium size and is a bit older. We wouldn't have enough time to train a young puppy. I can't wait!!

I'll post pictures once we get him/her home. It's going to be such a blessing to have pet. I know that there will be work involved and some sacrifices made, but overall much more will be added to our lives!

GRRR...silly husband

2008-11-12T09:09:00.002-06:00

I have a bunch of things to write about but my husband fell for an email ploy. He then got a virus on our computer. So I haven't been using our computer at home.

I am not as mad as I when when it happened...but it's annoying. If the sitauation was reversed...he'd kill me. If he would of shown me this email/ link that he got from Facebook...I could have prevented it. But NOOO...the guys is always in a hurry and sometimes doesn't think.

Our computer should be fixed shortly, but I wanted to write a quick update at work b/c I miss posting!!

Halloween Costumes...IV

2008-10-28T12:46:00.001-05:00

This past Sat. night.... I have great glow around me.

Me & Derek Smalls...He is ready to rock!

Derek Smalls, David S. Hubbins & Nigel Tufnel....the members of "Spinal Tap"

Here is Nigel Tufnel playing air guitar....I do believe all the boys had a great time. Even though they weren't on tour, it still was a great night for all.

Halloween Costumes...III.

2008-10-25T07:47:00.008-05:00

This is the funky jewelry that I am going to wear. (Yellow tights not shown....Sorry for the blurry pictures. My apartment didn't have the best light.)

This is the dress I am going to wear...I'll show a lot of cleavage with this. Isn't it manatory for women to show a lot of skin dressing up for Halloween?

This is the other dress that I found. It was a little too Mrs. Brady..but I couldn't pass up the price of $6.00. I am sure I'll dress up in the future with it.

I'll post some picture of all of us dressed up.... It's going to look pretty amusing!

Halloween Costume-- Part II

2008-10-24T14:10:00.004-05:00

I found some dresses!!! The dress that I am going to wear is quite interesting. It definitely has an 80's feel.

I'll post show pictures when I get home from work....the day can't end fast enough!!

Halloween Costume

2008-10-17T20:23:00.000-05:00

For Halloween this year my husband is going as a member of Spinal Tap and his friends are making up the rest of the group. (They are a goofy bunch so it will look quite amusing!!)

I really had no idea what they were all about...he is more into music then I am. So anyway, I was watching some movie/video of them....and I saw a crazy blonde in classic 80's wear. And I thought.... I'll just go as a groupie. All I need is a vintage dress, some purple tights and funky boots. I might get a wig or some hair extensions. I am going to "wing" my hair out. I haven't forgotten how to do that~

It will be fun..I'll post some pictures of the outfit I find tomorrow. Hopefully I won't spend hours searching for it!!!

Book of Essays?

2008-10-10T17:24:00.002-05:00

I just recently read the book "I Was Told There'd Be Cake" by Sloane Crosley.

I never never read essays. There are just not my cup of tea. It did take me a few essays to get into the collection, but once I did, I finished it very quickly. My favorite essay was "You on a Stick." I could definitely relate about the misfortunes of being a bridesmaid. There were some really good cringe-worthy moments in it that were quite humorous.

I am glad that I expanded my reading genre-- a lot of fiction is what I normally go for. This was a fast and enjoyable read and I look forward to other work by her.

Go Cubs....NOT!!

2008-10-05T20:51:00.002-05:00

Very disappointed in them...I am sure I am not the only one that feels sick!

GO CUBS!!!

2008-09-30T21:48:00.004-05:00

GOOD LUCK IN THE PLAYOFFS! CAN'T WAIT FOR THEM TO START TOMORROW!!!

Ok....Down to work

2008-09-24T11:56:00.005-05:00

Oh.... I am trying to get my self organized. I tend to keep too much stuff. It drives my husband nuts.

I need to do something everyday...things just pile up and then I keep putting them off and the cycle continues!! I can't be the only one that has this problem. I really think having too many places to keep things is part of the issue. ...Yeah that's why I need help!

If I can make my mind up to work on this issue everyday....I should see some progress shortly!!!

Florida Vacation Recap

2008-09-13T09:17:00.008-05:00

I had a great time. It wasn't too big of a deal to leave early. I much rather have everyone get out of there safe. Here are some great pictures of the trip.

All the girls all dressed up to eat seafood.

Too many jellyfish....couldn't swim in the Gulf that day.

The view from inside our condo.

The way the beach looked in the morning without any guests!

Bootcamp Return

2008-09-12T10:55:00.002-05:00

Yikes!!! I am starting back with my bootcamp this coming Monday. I am very excited to get back to it. It feels like I have been gone longer that 6 weeks. I have been maintaining my running, but I have had a few weeks off b/c of the toe injury.

Here hoping that I am not too sore on Tuesday!!

Hurricane Gustav

2008-09-03T11:21:00.003-05:00

Well I had to cut my vacation early b/c of Hurricane Gustav. I flew out Sunday morning....my flight back to Chicago was scheduled for Mon. afternoon. The airlines had already pulled the plug on Monday's flights, so I opted to leave before the storm hit. All was well! I had a nice time and will post more later.

Florida Vacation.....Here I Come!

2008-08-24T18:01:00.006-05:00

Yeah... I am so close. I only have a few hours and 3 full days to go. I have already started packing because my flight is super early on Thrs. morning. I can't stand doing everything at the last minute. It drives me nuts. Fay should be out of the area when I am there...THANK GOODNESS!!

Florida Vacation

2008-08-21T21:43:00.002-05:00

I am heading off to Destin Florida next week. YEAH!! I am going with a bunch of girls (reminiscent of Spring Break) but I am sure there won't be too much craziness going on.
The thing that stinks is Tropical Storm Fay is dumping a ton of rain on the state right now. Things better be cleared up in a week or I am going to CRY like a baby. I don't get to do girl trips very often so I will be totally bummed if it is still raining!!!

This trip does remind me a whole lot of my Spring Break in Padre Island where the weather was horrible for the whole week and we were stuck inside drinking. Cross your fingers that I don't see too much rain!!

Elvis is Alive! 5K

2008-08-16T12:59:00.006-05:00

I had to miss the Elvis is Alive 5K run because of the toe injury. I was pretty bummed because they ran on the lake and the weather was fantastic. Oh well, I have to wait till next year. I posted such a great picture....there were so many Elvis's in the race.

Oh my Goodness..Look at these pictures!!!

2008-08-10T13:54:00.001-05:00

The tree in the neighbor's yard.

The tree ON the neighbor's house!!!

My hubby waving from our deck. Look at how close the tree stood to our place!!! CRAZY!!!

What??!!! There was a tree!!!

2008-08-09T17:37:00.000-05:00

See post below for story.....

Chicago's Storm & Toe Injury

2008-08-09T17:00:00.000-05:00

Well....there were some nasty storms here in Chicago on Monday night. Thank goodness I wasn't home b/c a HUGE tree got stuck by lightning in our back yard. How crazy is that??!! It fell the right way because it just missed my apartment.

Unfortunately, it took out a piece of the deck and I fell and damaged my big toe nail. I am not going to go into the gross details. It still makes me cringe!! Again thank goodness I was a little tipsy and the injury didn't seem so bad at the time. Waking up the next day proved otherwise and I had to get the toe nail removed....YUCK!

We also didn't have any power till late on Tuesday night. It was a long few days and I'll post some tree pictures shortly. You are not going to believe how close we were to losing our apartment.

Tristan Prettyman Part II

2008-08-04T15:53:00.000-05:00

I had talked about the artist Tristan Prettyman a few weeks ago.

Well, I am going to see her tonight at the House of Blues!!! It's a concert on their small stage and the tickets were really cheap.

I am not a big fan of going to concerts on a Monday night..I mean it's a Monday night and I don't like being tired at work the next day. Anyway, this show shouldn't run real late and it will be worth it.

I am dragging my husband to the show...I am pretty sure he will be entertained. Can't wait!

What to write....?

2008-07-27T17:28:00.000-05:00

I have only been blogging since the beginning of this year. Back when I started, I thought that maybe this could help me be more creative. (I am lacking in that department.) I didn't do a whole lot in the beginning. I really didn't think about this much. Then I made a decision to start working on this more. Now I am thinking about this a lot more of...coming up with ideas. I have a vision of what I want this blog to look like. I am exploring more blogs and it's just so neat to see so much creativity that I never knew existed. My husband is more creative than me and he might be guest blogging from time to time. So I am excited about that too. Hope everyone had a great weekend and keep sharing all those great ideas!!

The Dark Knight- Part 2

2008-07-22T11:54:00.000-05:00

I AM IN IT!!!! I AM IN IT!!!! I saw it opening day and it was GREAT!!! Almost 2 hours into the movie I appear on screen. There is a scene where the joker's voice cuts into a TV show and he is warning Gotham City. They show a group of people watching the TV. Well I am right upfront of that group, and they cut back to me a few times!!!

It's very exciting!!! Go see it!!

Boot Camp '08 & Fun Fitness Update

2008-07-17T14:39:00.000-05:00

I posted in May that I was taking some Boot Camp and Fun Fitness Classes over a span of two months. I have one last Boot Camp class this coming Monday evening. I am definitely stronger than I was a few months ago. I also feel thinner...if that makes any sense. I guess you could say that I have toned up.

So anyway, I am planning to take a few more Boot Camp classes after Labor Day, but that gives me a 6-week break. I better not fall off the wagon. I am planning to run weekly with a Fitness/Shoe Club that is located close to my house. Maybe there is something similiar by you.

I really feel that being with others pushes you to do more. I can't stop and I can't talk myself in to quitting earlier. In the end, I don't get as good of a workout if I do quit. I'll keep you posted on how things go....

Tristan Prettyman

2008-07-13T21:39:00.000-05:00

I have found a new artist that I love. Her name is Tristan Prettyman and she has a new CD called Hello....x. It is just fantastic and I can't stop listening to it. I love all the songs. It flows so well and the mix of music fits most moods that you are in.

Check out this new song "Madly." It's one of my favorites off the new album!

Celebrity Sighting

2008-07-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

I got to see a food network star last night at the Cubs game.

Around the 7th inning, I saw this mess of white hair out of the corner of my eye. I had to look because I thought it might be Guy Fieri from the Food Network. There were a few fans around him taking pictures. As soon as he got within shouting distance I yelled "I LOVE YOU GUY."

He looked right at me and said "I LOVE THIS TOWN." It was too cool. I love his show and it was such a thrill to see him. He dresses/lookes exactly like he does on TV. I also bet he would be cool to hang out with too. I never thought I'd see a tv personality that I watch all the time.

The Dark Knight

2008-07-08T21:58:00.000-05:00

Well ....I have some exciting news. I worked as an extra on "The Dark Knight." This was very thrilling and the whole day didn't seem real. I got very lucky and I might be in a very pivotal scene in the movie. My husband believes that I will be in it....

I was shooting a scene close to my office and I let some co-workers know where the filming was taking place. They happened to talk with Eric Roberts....(Yeah I couldn't believe this!!) and he talked with the assistant director and got me close to the camera in my scene. Eric Roberts liked my co-workers and invited them to the Drake for drinks. Again the entire day seemed surreal and I can't wait till July 18th. I plan to see this movie a few times. I'll update this after I see it and give more of an idea of where I am. Here's hoping that I make the big screen!!!

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-05T18:01:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone had a Great Holiday!

Blondie

2008-06-29T10:02:00.000-05:00

I saw Blondie perform Friday night at the Lincoln Park Zoo. She can still rock! I thought she sounded great and she performed all her hits. I forgot how many songs that I knew. Glad that I got to go!

Updates....Proving my Husband Wrong

2008-06-22T16:29:00.000-05:00

Well well well....I am working on this blog more. I have been pretty lazy about it. I keep thinking of stuff to do, but I don't follow through. I am going to stay with it. Working on this is more productive than watching TV....I am getting excited. I can be creative, it's just hard for me. My husband won't know what to think after a few weeks of work on this. Watch out Joe!

Boot Camp '08 & Fun Fitness

2008-05-11T13:24:00.000-05:00

Well...I have started back working out. I am taking a Boot Camp class on Monday nights and a Fun Fitness class on Wednesday night. I am doing 2 s six-week sessions of Boot Camp and only 1 six-week session of the Fun Fitness. So far I am very excited...it's working me good. I am excited to see progress. I'll make sure that I note any changes...which I am sure there will be some.

My Review of Pintucked Stretch Blouse

2008-04-16T16:22:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at Chadwick's

Sweet details to soften jeans and pants. Pintucked waist for shape.

Graceful Y-neckline.
Puffed, banded short sleeves.
Cotton/spandex.
Machine wash.
Imported.

Misses

Cute Shirt

By Trendykel from Chicago, IL on 4/16/2008

Sizing: Feels true to size

Length: Feels true to length

Sleeve Length: Feels true to length

Pros: Stylish, Versatile, Good Fit, Flattering, Comfortable

Cons: sleeves really tight

Best Uses: On The Weekend, To Work, Comfort-Oriented

Describe Yourself: Career, Bargain Shopper, Trendy, Casual

Very cute top. The sleeves were somewhat tight. I needed to order a size up. This top goes with work day and weekend attire. Good value.

(legalese)

My Review of Classic Tailored Jacket

2008-04-09T14:44:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at Chadwick's

Modern suiting designed with versatility in mind. Choose a cropped or classic jacket. Two-button style tailored for a more feminine fit. Breast pocket, plus 2 slash pockets on the right side, another on the left. Buttoned cuffs. 25 ½" long. Fully lined. A fluid blend of polyester, rayon an...

Great Jacket

By Trendykel from Chicago, IL on 4/9/2008

Sizing: Feels true to size

Sleeve Length: Feels true to length

Pros: Durable, Versatile, Attractive Design

Best Uses: Daily Use, Travel, Going Out

Describe Yourself: Trendy, Classic, Casual, Career, Bargain Shopper

A wonderful jacket to add to my wardrobe. This is very versatile. I love that I can wear it with pants, dresses and skirts. The price can't be beat!

(legalese)

My Review of Colorblock One-Piece

2008-04-09T09:09:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at Chadwick's

An essential one-piece that’s as flattering as it is stylish by Slimsuit®. Imported.

Halter style for added support.
Strategic color blocking creates the look of two-pieces.
Shirring at waist for a slimming effect.
Slimming panel at waist for a smooth sha...

Great Swimsuit

By Trendykel from Chicago on 4/9/2008

Waist: Feels true to size

Cup Fit: Feels true to size

Pros: Good Fit, Lightweight, High Quality, Flattering, Attractive Design

Cons: Color Not As Expected

Best Uses: Beach, Swimming

Describe Yourself: High-end shopper, Comfort-oriented, Stylish, Classic

This suit is very flattering and comfortable. It stays put and doesn't ride up at all. It's the perfect suit for the beach.

(legalese)

My Review of PARENTAL COMMENTARY SNAPSUITS

2008-04-02T09:05:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at UncommonGoods

Babies like to talk about their parents. Well, actually, they don't talk, but if they did, they'd probably talk about their parents. And these outfits allow them to do just that. Choose from "My dad's a geek" in green and "My mom's a fox" or "Props to Pops" in blue. Made in China.

Great baby outfit

By Trendy Kel from Chicago IL on 4/2/2008

Pros: Unique, Adorable, Well Made, Funny

Best Uses: New Baby Gift

Describe Yourself: Friend of new mom

Great gift for a newborn. Love the product. Can't wait to give it to the new mom. Very unique.

(legalese)

Etsy

2008-03-29T16:44:00.000-05:00

I LOVE LOVE ETSY!! It's the best online store for great homemade finds.

These treasures are really reasonable. I have gotten a necklace from a shop back in Dec. I love it!

I found another site today that is having a Sat. Night Special.

I am saving close to $ 10 on 2 pairs of earrings and a ring. So excited.

My husband doesn't GET/LIKE the ring that I am buying. He thinks it's too trendy. I thinks it's adorable. He is not wearing it. I am....He'll grow to love it I'm sure!!!

Posting Links

2008-03-09T21:30:00.000-05:00

Hey all.

I am doing this as a trial.

Check out http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca>this! It's a really cool website.

My Review of LEONARDO STORYBOOK AND TOY

2008-03-07T08:54:00.001-06:00

Originally submitted at UncommonGoods

Leonardo may be bad at being a monster, but you will find that he is very good at being a friend. Your child will love cuddling with this huggable monster, while you read Mo Willems' Leonardo the Terrible Monster together. Your child will delight in Willem's spirited, child-like illustrations. Each...

You'll fall in love with its originality

By Trendy Kel from Chicago, IL on 3/7/2008

Pros: Can Withstand Use, Thought Provoking, Entertaining, Fun

Best Uses: Family, Children

Describe Yourself: Thrifty

This was bought as a present. It was too cute for words. Very original.

(legalese)

Boot Camp '08

2008-03-02T18:41:00.000-06:00

Well my bootcamp ended on SAT. I think I did pretty well. I was very glad to have this exercise class when the weather has been so bad.

The Shamrock Shuffle is in a month.....I need to run a lot to get ready for it. Since I did have this class..I took a good run tonight and it wasn't too bad. I haven't gone for a run since fall. (The weather has been brutal)

I am planning to take another Fitness Class in the Spring. This class helped me a lot and I want to continue with my homework. Look out Summer.

Attention Foodies!

2008-02-03T15:34:00.000-06:00

Attention Foodies!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-01-29T10:49:00.000-06:00

Yeah....It's My Birthday!

The Oscars

2008-01-27T15:38:00.000-06:00

If they don't air the Oscars this year because of the writer's strike...I am going to be very upset. This night is something that I always look forward to. I love it.

Cosmedicine Primary Care

2008-01-21T19:54:00.000-06:00

Cosmedicine Primary Care

This is neat item that I might try in the near future....

Boot Camp '08

2008-01-20T14:52:00.000-06:00

Well I am taking this 8-week boot camp class on Sat. mornings. I missed last week because I was having headaches. I went yesterday morning. I did pretty good for not exercising in a while. But today.....I am very sore. I takes me awhile to get up and down the stairs. Hopefully by Tuesday I will be feeling better.

I am very happy to have a trainer...it's been forever. My class isn't one-on-one but it's small enough that I can follow along with the exercises. I am looking forward to seeing some results after 2 months. And maybe after this boot-camp, I will stay on the exercise path long through the spring & summer.

The New Year 2008

2008-01-15T19:49:00.000-06:00

Well my husband wants to make sure that I do something with this blog....I will work on this!!! I will become more creative!!! I have been stuck in a routine that needs some new life...

Here's to the the new year..even though I am a little late!

Twitter

2007-12-30T17:18:00.000-06:00

I guess I now can Twitter.....Check out twitter.com. It's an instant message tool to keep friends and family up to date with you.

I'll start the new year off with working on this blog..stretching my writing skills. Anyone can write, but can they do it well. I'll find out!!

Honeymoon Fun!

2007-11-04T12:49:00.000-06:00