twentysomething

mood indicator

2012-01-19T16:52:00.000-05:00

My mood / stress level can be determined by what station I am listening to on Pandora the most.

This week, I have consistently and constantly on the Broadway Showtunes station - Hair, Rent, Chicago, Lion King, Jersey Boys, West Side Story, Wicked etc. It's all the great songs I love right when I need them.

"Hey, I put some new shoes on"

2012-01-11T14:36:00.003-05:00

Last spring, I bought a road bike from a family friend who was looking to upgrade. I got a sweet deal on a Cannondale, which I LOVE. I started out sans clip pedals so I could get used to the new ride - new brakes, new handlebars, etc. Even though most of my road bike owning friends said clips were the way to go.

With some Christmas gift $ (Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!) I bought shoes and clip pedals for my bike! I opted for the same pedals as the gym spin bikes so I can use them there too, and cannot wait to try them out tonight!

title inspiration: Paolo Nutini's New Shoes

the girl with no motivation to read this book

2012-01-11T14:08:00.002-05:00

I started this book on a 6 hr flight home from LA. I think since I had so much time to kill I kept pushing through it, but since I got home, I have had trouble picking it up for more than 15 min. I have heard so many rave reviews about this - but cannot get into it! Am I missing something??

Heather saw the movie and from her review, I would assume will never read the book, and does not recommend the film. I'm wary of wasting my time on the rest of the book, especially since I think I already have figured out the 'mystery' that is part of the story.

From what I understand at this point :

There is a girl, Lisbeth, who has a very broken home, and very messed up past. She is sort of on her own after a guardian she trusted fell ill. People are constantly watching for her, and following up on her to make sure she's managing life, but she's a million steps ahead of them and not interested in their babysitting. She's some sort of tech / sleuth genius.

There is a guy, Mikael Blomkvist, publisher of a magazine, who was framed in some libel case against a very wealthy dude. He is losing everything and will end up in jail, unless he can prove that the wealty guy - Wennerström - has set him up.

Cue Henrik Vanger, dying CEO of a family company who a)hates his family and b) needs to solve a family mystery of the disappearance of his favorite niece some ridiculous amount of time ago. He has info on Wennstrom that he will release to Blomkvist once the research / book is done.

Vanger hires Blomkvist to write a book / solve the puzzle, while Lisbeth somehow becomes involved in the project due to her technology, spying and work at a security company.

I guess I'll keep trying to see if I can get to the end of it!

Ups and downs of Fridays

2012-01-10T22:49:00.001-05:00

check out the fitness tracking blog here.

The week after New Years FLEW by. Short weeks are usually the ones that drag, since you have 4 days to do 5 days of work. I think we just had too much to regroup on for it to feel slow at work.

Recap:
Friday at work was full of news that our VP is leaving. It's a personal decision, to spend more time with his family. That led to a few shuffles in the VP layer and gives our team a new boss, who happens to be my friend Lauren's old boss. So, we dropped by Christopher's after work for a drink to catch up on the changes, gossip and get some info on what we are getting into with new leadership! I'm mostly grateful that we are keeping internal people on our team - outsiders can be fantastic, or detrimental to our progress and processes.

We all will definitely miss the departing VP. It's a huge loss for the department.

After 'happy hour' - Scott arrived on the train in Back Bay. We tried out The Salty Pig which had a good beer selection and good food. We made a plate of some salami thing only Scott ate, a few cheeses and some balsamic onion spread. Then, I got a pizza -

And Scott got clams

We rounded out the night with a drink at a bar near my apt - that now has Racer 5 on tap! One of my favorite CA beers !

Holidays

2011-12-27T11:37:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!! The holidays came so quick, and just like that - were over again.

Friday - we went to a Mad Men themed Christmas party at our friend Jon's apartment in Hartford.

me & Kat. Jealous she got her hair so high !

Christmas Eve - stopped by Grandma & Grandpa's - and thankfully, the lady was guarding the manger as she has for the past 30+ years.

Then, we went to lunch for Mom's bday

Later that night - it was time for the dinner/ party at Scott's parents.

Scott Dressed like Cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation

complete with the moose glass

Sue made a delicious cake

There was so much food!

Singing happy birthday to the December bday's - Mom, Dad, Brian and Benny

Christmas Day - we opened presents with the Vollono's

Scott got a metal detector, just like he wanted!

Rudy wanted to hang out on my lap

Abby LOVES Christmas, it tired her out!

Ozzy loves his toy

We had dinner at my parents - starting with a Cheese Tree

The guys had clams

Strawberry Santa hats!

Sweet tie!

Walden

2011-11-20T21:47:00.001-05:00

Nov. 5th - we wandered around Walden Pond:

Henry David Thoreau spent two years living here, in the 1800's. Not sure how I misunderstood this, but I always thought he shut himself off from the world - but it turns out he frequented the town, and just lived in a small shack in the woods.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walden_Pond

re-creation of his house

Halloween

2011-11-20T21:26:00.001-05:00

Carving pumpkins with Stephen, Amy and Sophia

Amy and Sophia

Stephen got to do the last bit of carving for Amy and Sophia

Uncle Scott and Sophia

Halloween weekend, we went to a party at Lauren and Kevin's. That was the weekend of the crazy snowstorm ! We stayed over and drove home on the nice, clear roads the next day.

ET and Elliot

Lori was "Elder White", a mormon and Lauren was the queen from Alice in Wonderland

Mad Hatter and the Queen

Andrea and Walt's

2011-11-06T21:29:00.000-05:00

October 22, Walt and Andrea got married!

Chris and Jess

Scott's brother Stephen was the best man

Mr. and Mrs. Kosack

Andrea's Mom

Andrea and her dad

gorgeous sunset at the Guilford Yacht Club

cake made by Sugar in East Haven - Scott's cousins own it, and they won Cupcake Wars on the Food Network!

Walt's groomsman cake, with pictures of him and Andrea in the driver's and passenger seats

First dance - "When I'm 64" by the Beatles. Such a cute option!

Big Steve and Laurel

Amy and Stephen

The guys - Family friend Paul, Scott, Big Steve, Chris, Stephen

Dancing!

The girls!

Such a fun night! Congrats to the happy couple!

Saturday in town

2011-11-06T20:01:00.000-05:00

The weekend of 10/21 -- Saturday - we wandered all around Boston. First, we went to the Museum of Science to see the Pompeii exhibit.

Recreation of dead bodies in the ash. Sort of gross.

Build your own aqueduct

We headed to dinner at Kingfish hall in Faneuil hall for dinner

I'm not sure if this was for show or for roasting/eating, but I thought the fish rotating on the stick over the fire was funny.

Delicious tomato bisque in a caldron

Scott ordered cherrystones, which he loved.

Then we headed to a concert on Landsdowne St. at the House of Blues.

Opener: Vanessa Carleton

Main Event: Matt Nathanson

crafty

2011-11-06T18:55:00.002-05:00

One random Sunday - I was feeling crafty- and headed out to Michaels and Target to get some supplies.

First up - scrapbook border stickers and small candle vases

I picked my favorites, and stuck them on the glass.

Yes, that is Hocus Pocus.

Next up: I found this on pinterest, and had to try it myself. Mine's a bit different, but still the same idea:

http://pinterest.com/pin/157662803/

I saw this link:

http://pinterest.com/pin/370934307/
And wanted to try it myself!

Labor day @ the Cape

2011-10-30T21:15:00.000-04:00

A bunch of us met at the Cape for Colleen's 30th birthday. It was a fun weekend, in a gorgeous house. I had so much fun, I forgot to take pictures!

Scott and Kevin playing frisbee by the pool

adorable Lyla with a birthday crown upside down on her head

beach day

camping

2011-10-30T20:56:00.002-04:00

Summer Recap: Camping!

Scott and I went camping around the date of our 2 yr anniversary (awwwww.)

Hammonnasset beach

Cute little cricket in my bike

Fabulous tent, Thanks Dad!

Coffee on the grill

more beach time

it's hot. time for a swim, or some drinks

drinks and cooking

Whisky tasting

2011-10-30T20:40:00.001-04:00

Summer recap: whisky tasting with Lauren and Jerry!

For Jerry's bday last year, Lauren bought him a whisky tasting. With the tasting, he was able to keep a number of whisky's for himself. We went over, had dinner and tasted a bunch of different types!

Bartender Jerry

I liked none of these. I'm not a whisky girl! I took mine with ice,

and dumped half of them out.

Random summer weekends

2011-10-30T20:32:00.004-04:00

Summer Recap: Random summer weekends

Mustaches at Magouns brunch

Looks just like The Big Lebowski

Really - it is Lanes and Games

Spare

Fun but Awful day of bowling!

LF

2011-10-30T20:10:00.001-04:00

Summer recap: Lobsterfest

In July - we convened in Milford for Lobsterfest ! Lauren, Kevin and Lyla came down and hung out the night before, and were ready for the fest Saturday! It was SO HOT, we were sweaty messes. We didn't even last til the end

The line, after 4:30p

Midwestern 4th of July

2011-10-30T19:25:00.001-04:00

Summer recap!
For the 4th of July, Heather & Erik, Chris & Kaitlin, Scott & I met up with Brigid & Scott and Uncle Tim & Aunt Sue in Wisconsin! It was a relaxing, and very fun trip! I can't wait to go back!

Scott and I arrived early, had breakfast and hung out with Chris and Kait until Heather & Erik arrived!

We took a boat tour of Milwaukee harbor.

Heather and Erik were already with us, in spirit!

The only property ON the water!

Samplers at lunch

Backseat boys, headed back to the airport to get H&E

Lakefront Tour!

Our tour guide was very personable, and funny!

Recognize this? It's from the show, Laverne & Shirley!

They sing the theme song during the tour!

Heather and Erik on a morning 'toodle' , i.e. morning boat ride

Brigid and Scott's dog, Chloe after a swim

Cousins

the boys

Heather driving the boat

summer parade

the infamous red jacket

recreating our picture from the early 90s!

At Summerfest!

this band sounded just like DMB!!

opener for Ben Harper

neverending fireworks

4th of july parade

Thank you Uncle Tim, Aunt Sue, Brigid and Scott for showing us around and a great time!

pet sitting

2011-10-30T19:04:00.002-04:00

Summer recap!
My former roommate Johanna, and her boyfriend *now fiance!* Mike, were away and asked me to pet sit! Scott came up and helped me wrangle the super cute, super loveable pup Jake. He was so good and lots of fun!

always ready to play

Jake hearts tennis ball chewing

Jake's game - you hold the ball, I'll chew. OR, I fetch, you wrestle it out of my mouth.

I miss my mom and dad!

Happy Birthday Jen!!!

2011-10-30T17:46:00.001-04:00

Summer Recap! June 22, 2011

We went to VT to celebrate Jen's birthday ! We wandered around Burlington, ate delicious cheese, drank delicious beer, listened to some music and danced like it was 1985 at an 80's night at a local bar !

Lori loves Farmer's Markets

so many things to choose from!

local wines

sniff, taste...

free, but meh.

what is that cat holding?"

samplers are fun

Dronkey dancing for Birthday fun

High on a hill was a lonely goatherd... yes, I bought this for the name.

Cheers to Jen!!

we love cheese plates.

most delicious dinner in VT

who bought the Red Headed Slut shots??

that we alllll took!

Jen & Jonathan

awesome dancing skills

I wear my sunglasses at night

Birthday fun!

night is almost over, clearly

weird dream

2011-06-26T09:59:00.000-04:00

I had the weirdest dream last night! My parents had a new house that they had purchased a few years ago. They were attempting to knock down a wall to make some changes, and someone was there to tell them all these crazy things about the house.

1. the house used to be a funeral home

2. the previous owner had driven her car into the house, and the car and her skeleton was stuck in the wall so they couldn't knock it down

3. the ceiling was retractable and the roof was actually all glass

So - we opened the ceiling and these large wood pieces folded down. Inside the wood pieces were old movie posters - placed there so people in planes overhead could see the advertising. So odd.

Then, My aunt from WI was in town, and we had to have a meeting with a board of investors about the ceiling. The house was really rare and they wanted to buy it. I was in charge of opening the panels for the meeting and was getting yelled at since I was taking too long getting orange juice first. Also - I was getting nervous that something would fall on the house and glass shards would fall on us.

5th Annual Crawl and Beerfest day

2011-06-23T23:10:00.000-04:00

This year was the 5th annual pub crawl, coordinated by Lori. It started as a birthday crawl for Jen and George, and morphed into a post Chapel Hill Chauncy Hall graduation celebration. (CHCH is where Lori and friends work)

We stopped by the pub crawl to say hi before we went to the American Craft Beer Fest.

We got photo bombed.

After the fest, we headed back towards Faneuil Hall. It's ok - the owner told Scott he could pet the horse - they say that they bite so kids won't bother them.

The people on the pub crawl weren't having much luck with the bars on their list, so they left for the Hong Kong. Scott and I decided to get something to eat at the Union Oyster House.

We ordered calamari, Scott ate oysters, and I had some onion soup.

The food is good! We watched the Bruin's game, and headed home!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-23T22:50:00.001-04:00

For Father's Day we went to a late lunch at the Chowder Pot

What is this??

AN IPAD!!!!!!

Happy Father's Day !!

love, Heather and Kimmy

Missing for 16 yrs, now Whitey is EVERYWHERE

2011-06-23T11:35:00.000-04:00

So, Whitey Bulger has been found and arrested. The Boston news, newspapers, twitter - everything is on fire with this story. It's crazy to see all the press about it, all the detail, and read all about what happened right here in town!

- Backstory: Whitey Bulger (James Bulger) is an Irish Mobster from Boston, who was an FBI informant. Apparently the FBI had protected Bulger and his Winter Hill Gang *, which was obviously a huge scandal with the Boston police dept. John Connolly (currently in prison) was an FBI agent who continually tipped Whitey off to keep him out of jail. (Sound familiar? The Departed was based on this)

- Boston.com is full of all the details:
- Articles about the families whose family members were allegedly killed by Whitey and his gang.
- Reactions.
- A 5 part series on the mobster. Part 1, Part 2 - the Mafia myth, Part 3 - arrest, Part 4 - protection, Part 5 - drugs in Southie..
- A photo list of people involved.
- A mob tour of Boston.

I'm sort of fascinated by all this. I love the movies about the mafia - Goodfellas, The Godfather, A Bronx Tale - but it's so odd to read about it all present day.

*Side note - I live near Winter Hill, Somerville. Oops.

sporadic blogger

2011-06-23T11:10:00.001-04:00

I swear I do more than just watch movies lately!! I'm such a sporadic blogger.

I have a recap of the VT birthday weekend for Jen coming up soon, I haven't uploaded and edited the photos yet. (and I'm surprised Jen and Lori haven't asked me for them yet)

And - I need to post pics of Beerfest / Lori's Pubcrawl, our rainy day vineyard visit, and Father's Day !

The Back Up Plan

2011-06-23T11:01:00.000-04:00

Last night, I watched The Back Up Plan, with Jennifer Lopez and Alex O'Loughlin. (He sort of reminded me of Jesse Bradford.)

J.Lo is a woman who has given up on finding the right guy and decided having kids was most important to her, so she goes and gets inseminated. As fate would have it, she meets Stan (O'Loughlin) that very same day, and cue the romantic comedy insanity.

I thought this movie was cute - I really liked actor Alex O'Loughlin (or maybe I liked looking at him?) because he was not a huge star. His character came across as a genuine guy, though I'm not sure in real life a guy in his situation would act the same!

Oh, hello there.

There were some odd parts to the movie, such as the single mother's support group and the home birth one of them has. Jennifer Lopez's character was a bit eccentric, and annoying. I can't take J.Lo's acting for very long. I feel like she has played this personality before, specifically in The Wedding Planner.

This was a cute scene, though I'm not sure this EXACT scene was actually in the movie.

Overall, it was a cute, rainy night Romantic comedy. I might watch it again if it was ever on TV and I was bored, but it's not one for the collection.

The Box

2011-06-20T11:38:00.000-04:00

Last night I watched The Box with Cameron Diaz and James Marsden. It is actually based on / drawn from a short story called "Button, Button" which was later made into a Twilight Zone episode.

The film is about a couple Norma (Diaz) and Arthur (Marsden) who live in the suburbs with their son. They are not exactly financially stable, and a few things come up on the same day that get them even more stressed about their situation. A box is left on their front door, and the next day - a strange visitor comes with more information - press the button and get $1m. However, someone you don't know will die if you push it.

As a couple - Norma and Arthur have to figure out if this is real, and what to do. Clearly, this button is a test of their personalities and of human nature. It causes them to consider whether their comfort and happiness is worth another's life.

Of course, it is not this plain and simple. The movie does take a different turn than I expected, and for a while I wasn't sure what was going on. It got a little sci - fi for a bit. It did seem like an extended Twilight Zone episode.

I can't say I'd recommend it for everyone. Maybe to my mom, or others who like the Twilight Zone. It was creepy, but interesting. I wouldn't watch it again, but don't feel like I wasted my time

two kisses for maddy

2011-06-15T22:15:00.000-04:00

http://www.mattlogelin.com/

a few years ago, I found this blog online. I have no idea how I stumbled upon it, but the minute I found it - I couldn't stop reading it.

It was incredibly sad. This man, so in love with his highschool sweetheart, ready to start a family with her- lost his wife the day after his baby was born. And she was born on my birthday. Maybe that's why I was drawn in in some sense.

I read all his back log - blogs. I read every new blog. I read about how he was searching for a nanny to go to India w/ him so he could write this book. I read the emails he posted to his editor. I waited for his fantastic pictures of India to surface and to know when his book would be out.

Finally it was released. I read it in 1.5 days. It was so sad. I cried during the book often, but it was probably 1/10 of the amount of tears he shed living and writing it.

At the end of the day - somehow, Matt Logelin connects to a variety of readers with his honesty and openness. I love his photos, music choices and writing style.

Matt came to the Brookline Booksmith for a reading. I had to go. I went alone. Not so odd for me, as I've gone to concerts alone, and other shows. He was funny. He read from his book, and got sad, and choked up. He told anecdotes we would never have known. He was so open with his life, and he seems to be pretty happy in life, despite his devastation.

I'm glad I went. Glad I listened, and glad he signed my book.

2011-06-15T21:24:00.000-04:00

Go B's

2011-06-15T15:17:00.002-04:00

Image from: http://www.universalhub.com/2011/bruins-rules-game-7

Everyone has Bruins fever, and Boston Pride lately! The Bruins have made it to the Stanley Cup finals, when lots of people figured they would be out of the running in April. Given all the work I've done on the local sports TV spots for work, I had more interest this year in Hockey than in past years. I've always enjoyed it, but have never been a crazy fan of it. Anyway - it's fun to watch the games, and see how differently the Bruins played each team and finally made it to Game 7 which is tonight in Vancouver.

Unfortunately, since the World Series win in 2004 - Boston has gotten a reputation for not being able to manage their excitement or angst when teams win or lose a play off / finals game. There are parking bans, and all sorts of extra police around tonight.

Anyway - that reputation, and a slight error from the mayor of Boston is part of the joke of the image above.

Last May - Mayor Menino was at the TD BankNorth Garden unveiling the new Bobby Orr statue. He noted some key moments in Boston sports, and called out the time when "Varitek split the uprights." Um, who was that you said? He meant to say Vinatieri, as in Adam Vinatieri - who kicked a 41-yard field goal with four seconds left in Superbowl 38. Varitek is a catcher for the Sox.

today's J's blog inspiration

2011-06-15T15:02:00.001-04:00

This blog is helping me so much! Today I wore a similar outfit to the image below. Instead of a brown belt, mine is more of a golden yellow. I still need some good tan shoes, so I have black slingbacks on. (oh and capri's since I'm at work).
Best part is - I have gotten compliments on my cute outfit today!
Thanks http://www.jseverydayfashion.com/ !

Inspiration

2011-06-09T15:10:00.000-04:00

I found this new blog, I think through Heather ; or in google reader. Anyway - I LOVE IT. I want this girls' entire closet! (Ok, not all, but most of it. )

So I have been inspired to try new combinations with my clothes, but also to find a few items to complete the looks she has posted.

I tried one today. I used this as inspiration:

But have on this cardigan :

My other fave outfits of hers are below. I'm on the hunt for some key items!

Just tried this shirt on at Loft and was undecided. Guess I need to go get it!

I think this bolder shade will work for me. Pale yellow is awful w/ the pale skin and blonde hair.

Found a not so close substitute at Target I may try out.

I need to shop for scarves!

This is kind of funny

2011-06-06T16:58:00.000-04:00

http://adage.com/article/digitalnext/7-biggest-ceo-secrets-accidentally-revealed-allthingsd/228012/

The Art of Racing in the Rain

2011-06-06T11:47:00.000-04:00

I started reading The Art of Racing in the Rain a WHILE ago, when Jen got it for me for my bday. (hi Jen!) I started to read it, and it was sad, so I think I went on to happier books. It sat on the shelf, and was mildly ignored until recently - when I read it in about 2 days.

The premise of the book is that of the life of a race car driver / mechanic- Denny, who lives with his wife - Eve, daughter - Zoe, and best friend/dog - Enzo.

The story is told from Enzo's point of view; he believes the Mongolian legend that a dog who is prepared will be reincarnated in his next life as a human. Enzo spends his time listening and preparing for this, since he wants nothing more than to be a human. He is the comforter, friend, and ally to Denny and his family as they go through tough times with health issues and then massive family issues. If you've ever had a dog you were close to - you can imagine that the way Enzo understands, listens and thinks is what truly goes on in a dog's head. Unfortunately, dogs lives are shorter than humans, which is the worst part of having such a loyal, unconditional love in your life.

I recommend it - I loved Enzo's personality. I loved his loyalty and understanding of his family. I hated the inevitability of the ending, which is also part of the first chapter. Keep tissues on hand!

Tangled

2011-05-08T21:47:00.001-04:00

I watched Tangled tonight

Whoops! Wrong photo. hahaha. Heather and Erik totally look like the characters in Tangled! Evie would make a good 'Maxiumus' as well.

Seriously though, it was a cute movie and not over the top Disney sweet/predictable storyline. I mean, clearly you knew they'd end up together, and she'd be reunited w/ the fam, but still - it had some good twists and turns.

Recommend.

Sunny Sunday

2011-05-08T21:38:00.000-04:00

Scott and I went biking today from the Bike path that starts in Somerville to the Arlington/Minuteman Bike path that goes to Bedford.

Overall- I think we did about 22-25 miles. Scott was on my old school hybrid bike which is a LOT more work than a road bike.

He won't forget to find his bike rack and bring his own bike!

beautiful path in cambridge

post bike lunch at the Burren in Davis Sq

The hot wings were spicy!

We made a new friend! Roscoe - an American Staffordshire Terrier. He was with his owner who joined us on the patio for food and drinks! Roscoe was SO CUTE and so sweet. He is 1yr old.

Rain Delay

2011-05-08T21:06:00.000-04:00

I took Scott to his first Sox / first MLB game Saturday. Sadly, there was a rain delay after the 3rd inning, til 4pm. :(

Waiting inside til the rain stops

with everyone else.

Take 2.

Sox beat the Twins 4-0

MS Bike 2011 - the actual ride

2011-05-08T20:48:00.000-04:00

MS bike is one of my FAVORITE weekends ! This year we opted for the 100k vs the 50k .

Ok 100k (60 miles) was a bit ambitious, seeing that I just got a road bike 3 weeks prior, and DID NOT train enough (at all) prior. However, my friends were great (didn't train a lot either) and stuck with me! The day was colder than we thought but the PB&J, Gel packs/Gu packs and Rest stops made it work! I felt really badly that I was holding everyone up going kind of slow - but they assure me that they were happy at that pace too. It was a fun ride. I'm excited for 2012, when I'll be more used to my bike and actually train!

Also - they overshot their measurement of the 100k so we ended up at about 65 miles. Oops!

Gu and resting

Struggling up a hill

Ready to ride

relaxing the day prior

Um, hyperextended elbows much?

Road Surfers ready to go!

Day after, we can still sit down!

We finished!

Goody bags - Kangaroo on a bike

Lori is PUMPED

our whole team

Goody bag - elephant on a bike

MV 2011

2011-05-08T20:42:00.000-04:00

April 30 - MS Bike the Vineyard 2011.

Ferry ride over

For mom - Shirley Temple movie?

Oak Bluffs

Celebration after the ride was complete ! Champagne and Lori biting Jen.

our rental house - Belledune

I think Three Tomatoes in Burlington got their wine jugs here!

Delish iced coffee

Vineyard Haven

Chihuly!!

2011-05-08T20:22:00.000-04:00

Museum of Fine Arts - Boston

Dale Chihuly is a fabulous glass sculptor, who was injured in a car accident and now only has one eye, and had to hire people to blow glass for him after a bodysurfing accident. Regardless, he presents amazing work! He went to RISD and established their glass department. I saw his exhibit in San Francisco 3 or so years ago, but couldn't pass up sharing him with Scott, and seeing what else he had created! I love his work, and it was worth the trip!

love the reflection

E.T. phone home?

new addition to an old piece?

love the reflections. All his displays are set up so they are stand alone gorgeous and reflect in a black surface

Scott's fave.

Sideshow Bob?

on sale for only $1400k or so at the gift shop.

Laurel's b-day / Uncle Easter Bunny

2011-05-08T20:02:00.000-04:00

The Easter Bunny came early this April - he showed up at Scott's Brother and Sister in law's house for his mother, Laurel's, birthday. We had a delicious dinner and fantastic desserts ! I had a ridiculous deadline for work and had to jump on a call at 5p, but didn't miss out on too much of the fun!

"Uncle" easter bunny - Chris

Surprise for the bunny! Kiss from Scott.

Scott, Sophia, "Uncle" (Chris) Easter Bunny, Stephen

Delorean Surgery

2011-05-08T19:47:00.001-04:00

Scott and My dad are doing some heavy duty work on the Delorean. It needs a new clutch, which is not a quick fix. They've spent a few weekends on this, and have a few left! Scott is grateful for the mechanic lessons and is learning a ton about cars in general, and this tricky engine ! Ed Mead is a genius when it comes to mechanics and cars. He knows things and figures out things no one else can. The Delorean is in such good hands !

They spend time together on this when I'm not in town! I think we are now competing for Scott's time! (really, we all just want it back on the road! )

Ed Mead working his magic

Men at work

alt blog

2011-04-19T11:36:00.000-04:00

I have some personal fitness goals I want to obtain, but instead of putting them here, I created a blog solely for this. If you want to read, great! But, it will mainly be for me to focus on what I want to do. If I have a designated place for it, maybe I won't be so lax about it. Hopefully it will be a great record of a transformation from lazy to runner!

http://2lapsunder4.blogspot.com/

boo.

2011-04-18T20:23:00.000-04:00

It's not allergies. I have a stupid cold. At least I held off on getting anything since Dec. '09. and cannot. stop. sneezing.

wow.

2011-04-18T20:17:00.000-04:00

wow. http://skinnyrunner.com/ makes me feel lazy. I need to get MOVING.

Yum

2011-04-18T11:00:00.000-04:00

I picked up these new crackers at the grocery store yesterday and they are Tasty! They're a good midmorning snack, and are a little bit sweet, sort of maple - syrupy. It's better to reach for these guys than for the random chocolate easter egg or reese's peanut butter cup candies strewn about the office!

Wheatables Toasted Pecan Crackers

294 steps

2011-04-17T21:33:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago it was gorgeous on a Sunday and Scott and I wandered around Charlestown. We ended up at Bunker Hill and since it was open, we climbed up the 294 steps to the top. It made me nervous since the stairs got narrower towards the top, I was out of breath and nervous bc I am sort of afraid of heights. It was fun to do and the view was pretty cool.

an old cannon with a hole in it

shot from the top

view from the top

these are the only windows as you go up and down the stairs.

Sort of looks like a bug zapper.

Memorial of the first monument, it was initially an 18 ft wooden pillar.

221 ft high

What a fancy stance. Hello William Prescott.

There are 4 gates to the monument. CT, MA, NH and American. Which one doesn't belong? Ha.

American idiot

2011-04-17T17:27:00.000-04:00

For my birthday - Scott and I went to NYC to see American Idiot

It was FANTASTIC!!! The music was fun, and there was little need for dialogue because the songs told a lot of the story. It reminded me of HAIR, in that it centers around 3 friends, who realize the world is changing and they have to figure out where they fit into it now. They start an adventure together, go three separate ways and it's interesting to watch the transformation and transition of characters. Definitely recommend!

After, we had dinner at Dos Caminos, which has fabulous guacamole.

Yummy margaritas!

bad decision - mango habanero sorbet. SPICY!

Scott's 'tequila for sipping' - so strong.

Shakespere via Ballet

2011-04-15T09:59:00.001-04:00

Last night Amy and I saw the Boston Ballet perform "A Mid Summer's Night Dream." Unfortunately- work got hectic and I left late and BARELY made it in the nick of time. so close.

Anyway - We definitely missed the 10 min window prior to read the synopsis so we could know what was going on - without dialogue. Basically it is a multi - layer love story, with fairies and "real" people. It is sort of comedic, especially when the "sprite" turns a townsman into a donkey to trick the girl (Hermia) so she will eventually be able to be with her true love, Lysander.

There are some things about ballet that go over my head - the 15 minute solo dance of a couple that didn't seem that crucial in the story, but must have been if they had that much stage time. I'm not sure what their significance was. Also - men in tights. I'd love someone IN ballet to explain to me how that works, and why they don't wear any sort of short, or 'male tu-tu'.

After, we headed to Jacob Wirth's to get something to eat. Apparently on Thursday nights there is a piano man, who will take requests from his lengthy playlist that is on each table. Also - it's a good place for large groups - there were a few very long tables of people celebrating various events. One near us was for someone's birthday, and when the candles on the cake were blown out (sparkler type candles) the waitress had to bring over a cup of water to put them out in.

Overall - a refreshingly different Thursday night!

a bit belated - HAPPY BIRTHDAY HEATHER!

2011-04-04T22:53:00.000-04:00

April 2, 2011 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my big sister, Heather.

I hope you have a wonderful year! !

Birthday!

2011-04-03T23:56:00.000-04:00

3/24, I turned 29.
I feel like my 'year in review' is on my bday rather than at New Years. 28 was ok, but personally I could have done better. I got lazy, and it shows. So, 29 is time to step it up and get to where and what I want to be before 30.

My birthday was so fun! I got chocolate covered strawberries from Heather, Erik and Evie and an Edible Arrangement from Scott!

Then, I went to Magoun's Saloon with Amy, Lori, Beth, Colls and Emmett for some bday beers, Bruins and UConn!

obligatory winter post

2011-04-03T23:25:00.000-04:00

This winter was brutal. Lots of storms. Lots of ice. Relentless. Lots of shoveling. Here are some images I captured of the wonderful winter we had.

Rudy watching Scott and I clear off the deck

He's in the top right window.

Ozzy clearly does not mind the snow. And refuses to look at the camera.

I cleared the snow once it was dropped off the side. We had to attack it, break it up and toss it over. Tiring!

Pretty sunset

Oh, what's that? I get to clean this off before work? super.

Watch for icicles

2 hours of chopping ice and clearing this off was totally worth it. Those snowbanks were still pretty high though!

Busy!

2011-04-03T23:16:00.001-04:00

Work has been so crazy! some highlights from January and March are below:

Pat Patriot

Blades

Cuppy

Nashoba - Jan and Feb 2011

2011-04-03T23:05:00.000-04:00

I haven't skiied in years. Not that I was any sort of expert when I did ski. This year, we attempted to regain our confidence at Nashoba Valley a few times.

We had a mix of conditions - empty mountain (small, not steep); freezing, icy and crowded. One day - Scott attempted snowboarding!

I think our favorite part was trying new beers at BBC afterwards!

Whale Bowl - 2/19/11

2011-04-03T22:53:00.001-04:00

Scott, Walt, Andrea and I attempted to brave the cold and go to the Whale Bowl - a hockey game played on a rink placed on Renschler Field between the CT Whale and Prov. Bruins.
It was around 28 degress with a windchill factor of 21. It felt like it was 5 with a wind chill of -10.
We didn't last too long before we opted for dinner at Mikro in Hamden.

Andrea

Scott and Walt

Walt and Andrea

Me and Scott

it's that time again

2011-04-03T22:46:00.000-04:00

Where I realize I haven't blogged in ages bc I haven't uploaded pictures and you get a ton of posts at once. Enjoy!

THANK YOU!!!!

2011-03-24T15:36:00.000-04:00

Thank you to Heather, Erik and Evie for the delicious and super cute strawberries !

And - Thank you SCOTT for the balloon and edible arrangement :)

I LOVE BIRTHDAYS!

Sorry the cell camera pics are bad, and my desk is piled with a few projects!

viola

2011-03-20T22:12:00.000-04:00

sort of random and cute that the b day cards I got from my grandparents and parents were both purple!!

thanks guys!

Those Who Save Us

2011-02-24T13:02:00.002-05:00

After Heather's review of "Those Who Save Us", I was excited to start reading it. I'm not sure why, but the Holocaust / WWII is fascinating. It may stem back to 7th grade, when we did almost an entire year study on the topic. Maybe it is because I cannot believe people were so cruel, and Hitler had so much power.

Either way - this book grabbed me from the second I picked it up. This book has dual story lines - which I both love and hate. I love - because it gives very different perspectives. I hate - because right when I'm dying to know what happens next, it skips to the other perspective, in this case - a whole different decade.

The story is about Anna and Trudy - mother and daughter who live and have lived very different lives. Anna grows up in Germany and has a harsh entry into WWII life. Trudy is born into this life, and doesn't learn all the details of her past until she embarks on her own German studies project through her work at a university.

Anna needs to save herself and her daughter, so she must obey the commands of a Nazi officer who visits frequently, hating what she must do to survive. It is crazy to read about the life of Anna. Of Germany in WWII, Nazi soldiers, the realities of life for Germans and Jews. Then to swap back to almost present day (1997) - where Trudy is struggling to get her mother to open up about her past, and begins her project interviewing Germans who also lived through the war, and how they feel about what happened.

This story was addictive, moving, and, as Heather notes, Powerful. Those Who Save Us are people you may not expect to be saving or helping you. And you may even be the one saving someone else without realizing it.

I read this on a kindle app, which I've never done before. It was weird to not be able to know how far into the book you were at first glance. Yes, you can highlight the bottom and see your page progress, but it's not the same. This was especially tricky at the end - when I turned the page for the next chapter and realized I was finished. I was sad, really. I wanted to know more about what happened next, how it turned out. Guess it's up to my imagination to decide.

Also - Would not be surprised if we see this in the theaters soon.

Born this way

2011-02-24T12:28:00.000-05:00

When I first heard the new Lady Gaga song, I thought - man that sounds a lot like "Express Yourself" by Madonna.

Then Lady Gaga posted the video below on her facebook - and honestly - I like this girls' rendition better!
I love her confidence and slight attitude. She is super cute and hopefully will pursue music if that's what she wants - I'm sure she'd be successful! I wish I could sing like her!

Is it just me?

2011-02-15T12:49:00.000-05:00

How did I only notice now that Special K and Rice Krispies taste EXACTLY THE SAME, and are just different shapes?

2011-02-14T10:55:00.002-05:00

Remember Me

2011-02-11T00:59:00.000-05:00

Wow.
Just watched Remember Me with Robert Pattison. The film is about a girl - Ally, who witnesses her mothers' death*, and a guy- Tyler, who has also experienced death in his family. His family has lots of issues, and the two end up together under odd circumstances. I watched this thinking, oh ok - it is about these two, and their family relationships and either they have an awful breakup or live happily ever after. The ending was NOTHING that I expected. There is definitely a 'big reveal' moment at the end, and my mouth dropped open. I can't give away too much, because it would ruin the impact of the film. Overall - it is a good story about love, families, and realizing how short time on earth can be.

*TMI potential * I did like how the movie ended and started in the same place. As if things came full circle for Ally somehow.

Clowns to the left of me, Jokers to the right

2011-01-21T10:19:00.000-05:00

It is a serious winter wonderland outside today. Our office is still open but most schools and such are closed. That 100% worked out for me because the commute was slow - going weather wise, but not traffic wise. It took me a little over an hour to get in, which is equivalent to a bad traffic day. It's supposed to stop at 12, which should give the roads time to clear before I head out around 3p. And - it is really pretty outside

So - not a bad morning, right? Well - I'm dealing with some super annoying things right now. Since this isn't a private blog, and who knows who will find it, I can't be too specific. However, the general gist is - being stuck in the middle is awful. Whether it is a fight between friends, personal indecision, or being the confidant to multiple people - it is frustrating. When it is out of your control, it gets worse. When it affects you but you can't do much to change it - torture. Sometimes it's good to be neutral (i.e. Switzerland) but even that gets tiring. I am eager for the weekend, to unwind, relax and not worry about the ridiculousness I have to deal with M-F.

One thing that is 'stuck in the middle' that does NOT suck - this song:

walking fail

2011-01-20T09:43:00.002-05:00

On Good Morning America today they talked to the woman who was so preoccupied texting that she walked into/fell into a fountain in a mall. Ok - that is an unfortunate incident. Thankfully she was ok.

The issue I have here, is she has a lawyer, and is trying to sue the security guards for 1. posting the video on line, 2. laughing at her and causing embarassment, 3. not coming to see if she needed help.

1. Was the best decision to post it online? No. They could probably be fired for that.

2. Ok, huge ego blow to fall in a fountain because you aren't paying attention. However - If she didn't come forward - who would have known it was her?? She claims her nephew called and said he saw it, but could he really recognize her in the grainy video or did she tell him what happened and then he saw it and knew it was her?

3. She says her self that she walked away immediately, so if they did come, they would not have found her. But - I get it, they could have been more responsible.

I really hope the mall doesn't have to compensate her for her klutzy inability to pay attention.

Evaluation

2011-01-07T12:16:00.003-05:00

Here were my 2010 goals - Let's see how I did.

In no particular order...
- Read more. So far that means Shakespere (bc I haven't read much of it), and books from the GG list. FAIL. I bought some Shakespere books, but didn't read anything from the GG list.

- Learn the Presidents. In order. Mostly because I feel dumb not knowing most of them, or when they were in office. FAIL. I completely forgot about this until today.

- Learn at least one song on the guitar. I know, I know - this has been a goal for the past TWO years. This time, I mean it. And Scott plays so I have access to a real guitar. (and someone who can play) FAIL. Ok, I'm a slacker. 2011 is about DOING not wishing. I mean, it's ok to wish for some things, like winning the lotto. But not ok to wish to not be lazy. Just don't be lazy. I got a guitar for Christmas (Thanks Scott!!) and I'm fired up and ready to learn. (Yes Heather, the goal is still to learn Edelweiss by Christmas!!)

- Be better with $. Pay things off. Save money. Stop buying things I don't need. I'll give myself 1/2 credit on this. I made some aggressive payments on some credit cards so I'm close to paying off those. I will have no car payment soon, and hopefully I can do fun things w/ tax money and not pay bills. I still spend money I don't need to sometimes, but I'm working on it. I'm a sucker for draft beer, and Target. And Archie's wings. Oh and gas money :(

- Be more consistent at going to the gym and reach personal goals. I know, we tried this last year, but then hit a bit of a snafu. Instead of a FAIL, I'll give myself a SLACK. 2010 was lazy. I enjoyed myself. I drank wine, drank beer, relaxed. Too much. I'm paying for it now with the physical disgust I have with myself. So, no excuses..

-Blog more. I have lots to say but just don't post it. Sometimes I just don't feel like it, so this is a fluid goal.

2011 goals coming soon!

Precious

2011-01-06T14:50:00.002-05:00

Pictures like this make me realize how quickly things can change.
One of my best friends (Jen) got into a car accident, and is THANKFULLY alright, but her car is not.
Crazy taxi drivers in Burlington, VT are dangerous! good thing her trusty Altima protected her!

Be Careful Everyone!!

Focus.

2011-01-03T14:47:00.000-05:00

I have plans to reflect on 2010, and discuss what I want to accomplish for 2011, but haven't been able to get to it yet. I had a great week in CT, and definitely stalled leaving to get back to MA.
I got home around 9 or so, was greeted by a new set up in the hall and living room, as well as a new roommate. A lot to swallow on top of unpacking and mentally preparing for a new year, and a new work week (that is guaranteed to be busy!)

Anyway.

Our "Fitness Works @ Work" emails come to our inbox pretty regularly with tips, events, and articles. I read today's and thought - those are all obvious - no brainers.. but - do I do that? Not enough. At the end of 2010 - I was feeling like I wasn't accomplishing much in a few areas of life. One of my goals for 2011 is to DO more. No excuses. No 5 more min on the couch instead of a work out that will make me feel better. Ultimately - stop saying 'I wish' and be able to say 'I did' or 'I currently am'.

This article talks about easy ways to make yourself focus - which I fully admit I need to do more of!

Taming the Scatterbrain

Do you ever feel like you are going in a hundred different directions but not really going anywhere? Maybe you run upstairs to do something, only to forget what you were going to do. You start doing something else, and then abandon that project when you think of something else that needs to be done. Perhaps you're busy all day but have nothing to show for your busyness. This is what is called the Scatterbrain syndrome; or in other terms, lack of focus.

The Scatterbrain syndrome happens to everyone, but fortunately there are some quick fixes to this challenge.

Have a specific plan for each day.

Before you begin your day, know exactly what you want to accomplish and what's on your agenda. Pretend your day is over and ask yourself what you need to feel like you had a productive and focused day. What is most important to you for this particular day only?

Pick three or four tasks and activities from your to-do list.

Many people have a huge, ongoing to-do list from which they work. You add tasks to it at a much faster rate than you delete them. Looking at a large list can be distracting and overwhelming; this will interfere with your ability to focus. Pick three or four tasks you would like to focus on for the day, and write them on a separate piece of paper, on a white board, on an index card, in your planner, or some other place that is separate from your big list. Focus only on those tasks for the day.

Minimize distractions.

Everything and everyone is fighting for your attention. If you are trying to finish something and the phone rings, don't answer it unless you are expecting an important phone call. If you can't screen your phone calls, learn to tell people you are in the middle of something and you'll call them back. Save television and Internet surfing as rewards for completing the tasks you want to do. Use a timer to let small children know when you will be available to play, talk to them while you're finishing a task, or get them involved.

Stop multitasking.

You might be proud of the fact that you can multitask, but multitasking keeps your brain going in too many directions. Start and finish a task before you move on to the next one.

Take breaks.

You probably think you don't have time to take breaks, but what if they made you more focused and productive? During your 5-10 minute breaks, spend some time meditating and clearing your mind. Don't sit and think about all the things you need to do. Relax and let your mind rest.

Minimize stress.

Stress can create a scattered brain, so you need to find ways to minimize it. The two best natural antidotes to stress are sleep and exercise. When you are tired, your coping mechanisms get weak. Many doctors also say that exercise is the best natural antidepressant on the market.

Add fish oil to your diet.

Adding omega-3 fatty acids (in the form of fish oil) to your diet has significant health benefits. Fish oil has long been considered by doctors around the world to be one of the most effective remedies for many health-related issues, including depression, improving memory and concentration, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Keep an "accomplishment journal."

Sometimes it feels like you have the scatterbrain syndrome, when in reality you've accomplished more than you think. At the end of your day, keep a journal of everything you did that day. For example

Did a load of laundry
Paid the bills
Went to work
Played a game with the kids
Called a friend
Changed the baby's diaper five times

An accomplishment journal helps you focus on what you did do, instead of what you didn't. Put your energy in the right place and give yourself the credit you deserve.
Being a scatterbrain does not mean that you are doomed to a life of forgetfulness or a lack of productivity or concentration. It probably means you're pretty normal, but you may need to try some new antidotes to the Scatterbrain syndrome.

Lori Radun - CEC (Certified Coach) is a certified life coach, speaker, and author for moms. Through personal coaching, speaking, her newsletter, and other personal development products, she helps mothers know and embrace their true selves and balance their many roles in life. To visit her Web site, go to http://www.true2youlifecoaching.com.

Christmas Day

2010-12-28T00:13:00.000-05:00

Christmas Morning, I opened presents at Scott's with him and his parents. Then, home to open gifts with the family and prep for our 11 person dinner!

Yummy cheese plate made by Heather

Receiving my award for the 'Most Improved Organizer of the Season'. I was on everyone about what the menus and plans were!

All set for Mom, Dad, Grandparents, Heather, Erik, Chris, Kait, me, Scott, and Aunt Patty

Adorable and delicious Christmas tree cupcakes made by Kaitlin!

Shiloh scamming slices of turkey

Common scene that night

2 for 2

Finally! I gave Erik the much coveted JLHS track sweatshirt, now that he is 'officially' in the fam

more gifts!

Someone got spoiled ! A creeper and car jacks for Scott from the Meads!

Shiloh hiding from the crowd

Last ones standing. We had such a fun time hanging out!

Ending the night on a high note. Mom laughing at Chris' Chewbacca impersonation

Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Eve with the Vollonos

2010-12-28T00:03:00.000-05:00

Traditional Sapporo consumption

Scott's parents' tree

my buddy Rudy

Chris, Stephen and Scott

Apps, among many other delicious dishes!

Big Steve enjoying the wine

Benny

Me, Scott, Nama, Chris and Jess

Nama and her boys

Scott, Stephen, Sophia, Nama, Chris, Laurel

Stephen, Amy, Sophia

Deck the Halls

2010-12-27T22:31:00.000-05:00

Christmas is in CT - the weekend after Thanksgiving, Scott and I got a tree to decorate. I brought all my ornaments and decorations to his house instead of bothering with my apartment.

Best way to water live trees - wine bottles! The neck fits easily into the stand.

Holiday Nog.

We put the tree skirt on Ozzy. He didn't mind. I think he liked it!

Stockings ready for Santa.

Yes, 10 boxes of lights. 100 lights per strand. They ALL made it on the tree.

Oh Christmas Tree - shining so brightly!!

Door decoration I created with a branch that didn't fit in the stand

Need a little singing Ringing through the rafter

2010-12-23T12:24:00.004-05:00

So my ipod isn't charged :( but You Tube has some nice GLEE Christmas playlists so I'm all set. My fave today is below:

I'm excited to see Heather and Erik tonight (and for the next week!!) and to spend Christmas with them, Scott and the family. I'm out of work at 2, hoping for NO traffic, and finally FINALLY ready for the holiday season. I've struggled with the holiday spirit this year. (I think the snowfall this week helped!) But -finalizing wrapping, packing up the car, and planning the Christmas dinner menu has me ready to go!

Birthday Celebration

2010-12-19T23:22:00.006-05:00

To celebrate Dad's birthday - we went to dinner at Chucks in West Haven. After, we stopped by Duffy's for a few drinks and to listen to some music.

Free "Guinness Bailey" shots from the Bartender

(Guinness topped off with Baileys)

Me and the Birthday boy!

weekend

2010-12-10T22:47:00.000-05:00

Scott came up and we spent time shopping and hanging out. First stop - pomegranite mimosas and a fantastic breakfast at Sound Bites

Tree at Fanueil Hall

up close and personal

after some shopping, a much needed Black and Tan

Movember Pub Crawl

2010-12-05T14:14:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we did a Movember Pub Crawl. Movember is basically when men grow mustaches in November for prostate cancer and mens' health awareness. At the end of the month, they can shave, and usually have a party or pub crawl to raise more money (as they have been getting donations all month). Amy planned a movember pub crawl and knitted mustaches for us to wear. They were itchy and made it hard to drink but we had them on and off all night.

Amy, Jen, Jen's brother Dave and I met up with some of Amy's co-workers and friends, and were later joined by Emmett and Colleen and Jen's friend Sean (who we met at the MS bike!)

Crawl bars: Joshua Tree, Big City, White Horse Tavern, Sunset

I told Jen her mustache looked a little like a lion, or a zoobilee zoo character.

Amy had the BEST outfit - Yukon Cornelius from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

random cool beer tap at Sunset

Sean's mustache on top of his mustache

Every 'stache.

update on fenwick st

2010-12-05T13:58:00.001-05:00

Well, we found a new roommate. Connie signed up on roommates.com and we met Nita - a 29 y/o Physical Therapist who is moving to Boston from Syracuse. She just got hired at Boston Medical and moves in the weekend of the 18th. I'll miss Johanna, but am happy her and Mike are doing so well and are moving in together.

cloud nine

2010-12-05T13:55:00.005-05:00

LOVE LOVE LOVE

Last December, Heather and I saw HAIR For the second time, and danced on stage at the end of the show . After meeting the cast, we were on cloud 9 - and determined that we could die happy after such a fantastic day. Well, last night I felt just as excited. Gavin Creel - who was the original lead in HAIR as Claude - was performing at Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge. Even though no one else was interested in going - I could NOT miss out when he was in town. So I left the Movember pub crawl to see him.

It was a-mazing. I actually made friends in line - 3 students from Suffolk University (theater majors) who asked if I was there alone and offered to let me sit with them. It was so sweet, and nice to be able to enjoy the show with people who love Gavin as much as I do. Ryan (from Suffolk) had a tshirt on that said "Mr. Gavin Creel", and his friends Jessica and Tiffany had shirts that said "Best Man" and "Ring Bearer". At the end of the show, Gavin was at the back of the club saying hi and taking pictures. People were lining up to buy cd's so I walked right over and talked to him for a few minutes! He gave me a hug, and I was thrilled. Still riding the high from it. Then - he signed Ryan, Jess and Tiffany's t-shirts. Such a fun night.

Ryan - Mr. Gavin Creel

Gavin said "I do!"

so sweet to take this pic for Ryan! and SO adorable.

Lots of videos from the show on you tube. I think the woman taking this was sitting in front of me. She essentially filmed the entire thing.

it's that time again

2010-11-18T11:36:00.001-05:00

The upside, and downfall to a month to month deal on an apartment is the flexibility of coming and going whenever you want or need to make a change. Inevitably there will be turnover. I'm on the 3rd hunt for a roommate and I've only lived in this place for 1 yr, 3 mos.

1. [August 2009] Moved in - Roommates: Kelly (never there, always at boyfriend/now fiance's place) and Johanna, had recently started dating her bf.
2. [February 2010] Kelly moved in w/ her boyfriend/now fiance. We searched and lucked out with a girl who worked with Johanna. Enter Norah.
3. [July 2010] Norah got married! Yay for her, but a PAINFUL roommate search for us. (you will not believe the sorts of people we met.) Enter Connie.
4. [Present day] Johanna is moving in with her boyfriend! Yay for her! Sad for me. Roommate search begins. We already have 3 responses, and one meeting set for Monday.

Wish me luck.

new

2010-11-16T14:29:00.000-05:00

Veterans' Day - I did a bit of preliminary Christmas shopping. . And happened to stop in Old Navy. I have been on the look out for more skirts, and so I tried this on . I didn't have high hopes for it, cause I wasn't sure I liked it. Turns out - I LOVE IT. It is comfy, has pockets (You can barely tell!) and is work appropriate. Paired with a cowel neck black sweater and boots, it is today's outfit!

Let the Sunshine In

2010-11-14T11:37:00.000-05:00

It's no secret, I love the musical HAIR. I may have been a hippie in my past life. After seeing it twice in NY, when it announced the US tour, I got tickets to see it in New Haven with my mom. Some of the cast from the NY show are on tour! Sadly, my fave - Gavin Creel, was not in it, but Paris Remmillard, who played one of the leads, did a great job. The first viewing I had was the best, by far. The people playing Claude, Berger and Sheila had great chemistry and were great to watch. The Sheila in the New Haven tour was less convincing, but still good.

Shiloh getting in the hippie spirit

Paris Remmillard (Claude) and Steel Burkhardt (Berger)

YIP!