I’m sitting at the information desk watching what everyone seems to think is the beginning of a blizzard. Or a Lake Effect Snow Event. Or just winter as those of use who haven’t forgotten what winter IS call it. It’s snow, people. Just snow. Sure it blows around and sometimes the roads get slippery and sometimes you can’t see the road well, but it’s still just snow.
I am still hoping for a snow day tomorrow, I might add.
In other news, I just found out I have officially reached the top of my pay scale here at my job so unless west Michigan starts looking like the next Williamsburg and people start moving IN instead of OUT this is what I will be getting paid until I move and get a new job which is simultaneously exciting and depressing. I’m also working on an epic this-is-what-I-do-in-my-job manifesto. It’s really so if something horrific were to happen to Sue and I someone might be able to figure out what we do and how we do it because there is a fair amount of stuff that no one else here knows how to do which is, again, simultaneously exciting and depressing.
Granderson is being traded to the Yankees.
This is just depressing.
On the way home I’m stopping at the Cove for important snow day supplies: hot chocolate and buttershots. Let’s all hope tomorrow finds Peter and Erin sitting on the futon snuggling with Grace drinking said concoction watching season 5 of Lost.
Seriously. Think blizzardy thoughts for me.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
there is no need to panic
So this week is almost over. Woo.hoo.
Plans so far include
Tonight: Friends of the Library Xmas Party in the auditorium after having worked since 8am so I was looking at a whopping 11 hours at the library today until Full Circle Steve informed me Girl Talk was available on vinyl so I spent my lunch break going to get said record and go home to eat and listen to said record only to find out (much like the great Scissor Sisters debacle) our record player is incapable of playing it at the proper speed.
And there is no alcohol at aforementioned party.
Pick up laundry, make pierogi dough, play chess, watch groundhog day or just chillax.
Tomorrow am: Bring Peter to work, go to Meijer at 9am which is only slightly better than the alternative of going at 2:30pm, go to Barnes and Noble for a supertopsecret Christmas present mission, go to a pawn shop with Joel where I will hopefully find the very inexpensive guitar of my dreams, pick Peter of from work, spend the rest of the day just marveling that Peter doesn’t have to work at Barnes and Noble TWO nights in a row. Make pierogies.
Sunday:
KNIT like there is no tomorrow.
Plans so far include
Tonight: Friends of the Library Xmas Party in the auditorium after having worked since 8am so I was looking at a whopping 11 hours at the library today until Full Circle Steve informed me Girl Talk was available on vinyl so I spent my lunch break going to get said record and go home to eat and listen to said record only to find out (much like the great Scissor Sisters debacle) our record player is incapable of playing it at the proper speed.
And there is no alcohol at aforementioned party.
Pick up laundry, make pierogi dough, play chess, watch groundhog day or just chillax.
Tomorrow am: Bring Peter to work, go to Meijer at 9am which is only slightly better than the alternative of going at 2:30pm, go to Barnes and Noble for a supertopsecret Christmas present mission, go to a pawn shop with Joel where I will hopefully find the very inexpensive guitar of my dreams, pick Peter of from work, spend the rest of the day just marveling that Peter doesn’t have to work at Barnes and Noble TWO nights in a row. Make pierogies.
Sunday:
KNIT like there is no tomorrow.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
so...it's only tuesday....hmpf
Sunday night we made chili. Sunday night we ate chili. Monday at lunch I ate chili. Despite the deliciousness of said chili, I knew that by Monday night I’d want something other than chili. I had spinach, beets, goat cheese, kalamata olives, cream, and pasta in mind. I googled my ingredients. I came up with little direction. I enlisted Kari as my official taster and figured I’d just go for it. I wasn’t planning on anyone else being there, but Joleen got out of work early and as it was her birthday and all she came back to the barn for a meal I made no promises about.
It was good. Pink. But good.
Here’s what I did:
4 medium roasted beets
sauté half a red onion, a handful of chopped shallots and a coupla cloves of garlic in 2 tbsp of canola oil-let it go for a good long time to let it caramelize.
I did not have fresh spinach so while my sauté concoction was going on, I cooked some frozen spinach and drained it.
Cook your pasta. I used rotini, but I would have used fusilli if I’d had it.
Chop up some prosciutto (totally unnecessary, btw. obviously one could make this vegetarian) or next time I’d actually use pancetta. Thicker is better. The flavor was good, but I missed on the crispy-ness I was looking for. I suspect pancetta would have helped. Toss it in with the onions etc and let it go. A good long time. Deglaze the pan with some white wine and toss in your spinach. Chop up some kalamata olives and toss them in.
Here’s where things got pink. I had roasted by beets over my lunch break and I wanted to reheat them so I tossed them into the sauté pan. Then I crumbled in about 5 oz of goat cheese and ½ c or so of cream. I also threw in a handful of grated parmesan.
Throw the cooked pasta into the sauté pan and mix everything up real good like.
Watch everything turn an alarming shade of pink.
Serve in bowls with a little more parmesan and some cracked pepper on top.
This might be the very first time I just made up a recipe. I cook without recipes all the time, but usually it’s because I’ve memorized it. Or I just barely alter a recipe.
I’m disgustingly proud of myself.
The only thing I would do differently would be to roast the beets closer to serving time and just top the pasta with the beets. Joleen (whose signature color is pink) thought it was perfect for her birthday supper.
In other news, music can wake me up at 2 am even if the volume is barely on.
Guess I’m just defective.
It was good. Pink. But good.
Here’s what I did:
4 medium roasted beets
sauté half a red onion, a handful of chopped shallots and a coupla cloves of garlic in 2 tbsp of canola oil-let it go for a good long time to let it caramelize.
I did not have fresh spinach so while my sauté concoction was going on, I cooked some frozen spinach and drained it.
Cook your pasta. I used rotini, but I would have used fusilli if I’d had it.
Chop up some prosciutto (totally unnecessary, btw. obviously one could make this vegetarian) or next time I’d actually use pancetta. Thicker is better. The flavor was good, but I missed on the crispy-ness I was looking for. I suspect pancetta would have helped. Toss it in with the onions etc and let it go. A good long time. Deglaze the pan with some white wine and toss in your spinach. Chop up some kalamata olives and toss them in.
Here’s where things got pink. I had roasted by beets over my lunch break and I wanted to reheat them so I tossed them into the sauté pan. Then I crumbled in about 5 oz of goat cheese and ½ c or so of cream. I also threw in a handful of grated parmesan.
Throw the cooked pasta into the sauté pan and mix everything up real good like.
Watch everything turn an alarming shade of pink.
Serve in bowls with a little more parmesan and some cracked pepper on top.
This might be the very first time I just made up a recipe. I cook without recipes all the time, but usually it’s because I’ve memorized it. Or I just barely alter a recipe.
I’m disgustingly proud of myself.
The only thing I would do differently would be to roast the beets closer to serving time and just top the pasta with the beets. Joleen (whose signature color is pink) thought it was perfect for her birthday supper.
In other news, music can wake me up at 2 am even if the volume is barely on.
Guess I’m just defective.
Monday, November 30, 2009
peter can confirm
So things happened this weekend. I poured Xtina a big shot of 75 year old bourbon and I think she got drunk. I discovered Kevin doesn’t know how to cook which he should learn to do if only because cooking is fun. Becky left me with a vision of a tattoo on Peter’s, uh, lower hip area: a Baby Phat font glitter panther tattoo. Kittens crawled all over me. We saw Fantastic Mr. Fox which was fantastic. We made really good chili.
And I got hit in the head by a flying squirrel.
Yeah. That happened.
And I got hit in the head by a flying squirrel.
Yeah. That happened.
Monday, November 23, 2009
for mom: i'm alive! peter's alive! everything is okay!
We’ve been listening to some contraband vinyl. I’m not allowed to talk about it. It’s killing me not to talk about it. So all I can say is we’re listening to some contraband vinyl.
And it’s filthy good.
This weekend I worked. Saturday night found me consuming Chinaman’s food, watching the Gilmore Girls and wondering when I got so lame. I coulda gone to the Sandbar! I coulda gone downtown! Instead I was almost asleep by the time Peter got home. I manage to stay up way too late still thanks to a SNL which wasn’t not funny (the reba mcintyre short alone is worth watching), the God Channel (which is horrifyingly compelling) and some Books videos which rule. Always. My late night lame ass Saturday meant that last night after making some corn chowder I put on my jammies and was asleep before 9:30pm and slept until 7:15am this morning.
It might have been the most awesome sleep ever.
So the holidays are fast approaching and notice I am not freaking out about handmade Christmas. That would be because this year will not be a 100% handmade Christmas. There will be handmade elements, but I’m determined to not kill myself and to have some fun with this whole holiday thing this year. I’m actually attending the library Christmas party. On a Friday night. Without booze (thought technically a bunch of staff are going to Parrots right at 5pm to do some shots so…you know…that’ll make for an exciting evening). I also signed up for Secret Santa here and got my person who I’ve got to say is 100% the single LAST person I could have possibly wanted to get, but damnit, I’m determined to have fun with this and I will make this person smile every freaking day. And for the staff potluck I will not show up with 5 kinds of expensive cheese that I adore, but instead will make something involving potatoes, nine pounds of sour cream and cheese because that’s what my coworkers want. As far as home goes, I’m hoping to get a tree this weekend. I might even buy a wreath for the outside. I’d like to host a small Christmas party involving festive cocktails, appetizers and desserts.
‘Tis the season to be jolly and I’m going to be jolly if it kills me.
And it’s filthy good.
This weekend I worked. Saturday night found me consuming Chinaman’s food, watching the Gilmore Girls and wondering when I got so lame. I coulda gone to the Sandbar! I coulda gone downtown! Instead I was almost asleep by the time Peter got home. I manage to stay up way too late still thanks to a SNL which wasn’t not funny (the reba mcintyre short alone is worth watching), the God Channel (which is horrifyingly compelling) and some Books videos which rule. Always. My late night lame ass Saturday meant that last night after making some corn chowder I put on my jammies and was asleep before 9:30pm and slept until 7:15am this morning.
It might have been the most awesome sleep ever.
So the holidays are fast approaching and notice I am not freaking out about handmade Christmas. That would be because this year will not be a 100% handmade Christmas. There will be handmade elements, but I’m determined to not kill myself and to have some fun with this whole holiday thing this year. I’m actually attending the library Christmas party. On a Friday night. Without booze (thought technically a bunch of staff are going to Parrots right at 5pm to do some shots so…you know…that’ll make for an exciting evening). I also signed up for Secret Santa here and got my person who I’ve got to say is 100% the single LAST person I could have possibly wanted to get, but damnit, I’m determined to have fun with this and I will make this person smile every freaking day. And for the staff potluck I will not show up with 5 kinds of expensive cheese that I adore, but instead will make something involving potatoes, nine pounds of sour cream and cheese because that’s what my coworkers want. As far as home goes, I’m hoping to get a tree this weekend. I might even buy a wreath for the outside. I’d like to host a small Christmas party involving festive cocktails, appetizers and desserts.
‘Tis the season to be jolly and I’m going to be jolly if it kills me.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
it's gonna be a hanukkah birthweek for me!
This is what I got last night just after midnight which officially kicked off my birthweek.
I might have spent too much time analyzing each picture.
And, no. It’s not lost on me that Peter gave this to ME for my birthday.
Last night I made a tofu spinach lasagna which sounds icky for all of you non-tofu eaters out there, but you honestly couldn’t tell that it was tofu. And it upped the protein content. And lowered the saturated fat content. My gayboyfriend Michael was halfway through his first piece when I finally confessed what I had done.
He ate 2 ½ pieces.
This week:
Survive the after effects of a full moon at work.
Walk to work despite the cold.
Make spinach turkey burgers stuffed with feta cheese served in a pita with beets, olives, and hummus.
See the Press Delete and only the Press Delete Friday night at lemonjellos
Buy Being There on vinyl.
Watch Food Inc.
Hit up the awesome used bookstore in South Haven.
Go to EPC for the midweek birthweek dinner celebration.
Be cool.
I might have spent too much time analyzing each picture.
And, no. It’s not lost on me that Peter gave this to ME for my birthday.
Last night I made a tofu spinach lasagna which sounds icky for all of you non-tofu eaters out there, but you honestly couldn’t tell that it was tofu. And it upped the protein content. And lowered the saturated fat content. My gayboyfriend Michael was halfway through his first piece when I finally confessed what I had done.
He ate 2 ½ pieces.
This week:
Survive the after effects of a full moon at work.
Walk to work despite the cold.
Make spinach turkey burgers stuffed with feta cheese served in a pita with beets, olives, and hummus.
See the Press Delete and only the Press Delete Friday night at lemonjellos
Buy Being There on vinyl.
Watch Food Inc.
Hit up the awesome used bookstore in South Haven.
Go to EPC for the midweek birthweek dinner celebration.
Be cool.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
books are DANGEROUS
I’m reading “The End of Overeating.” Much like “In Defense of Food,” I’m finding this book inspiring and yet horrifying. None of it is really new information: Americans are no longer eating actual food, but rather processed food-like products chock full of a delicious yet deadly and nutritionally wretched combination of fat, sugar, and salt. I’m up to the section on chain restaurant food and much like when I read “Fast Food Nation,” I’ve gotta say it’s gonna be a loooong time before I’m able to eat anything from either an Applebee’s or a McDonalds-we tend to think the bigger chains are better for us than fast food. They rarely are. Yes, Applebee’s at least has “healthy” options, but the practices of big chains have a huge impact on not only the environment, but also on what kinds of food are available. And the “healthy” options are such a small percentage of the overall menu. And most chain restaurants aren’t even really cooking the food. Everything-from the chicken to the burgers to the fries to the sauces-are cooked first (usually in oil), frozen, then shipped to the restaurant where foods are “assembled.” We have people in kitchens of restaurants who are assembling our food. Like a car.
Skeezes me out. Big time.
Thanks to this book (and the Pollen), I’m now being hyper-vigilant again about what I put in my mouth. I spent most of my day off yesterday reminding myself that the box of macaroni and cheese on the shelf was NOT food. It was chemicals and salt and nutritionally a nightmare. And it wouldn’t even taste good. It would be comforting, sure, but ultimately I wouldn’t be getting anything out of it.
So I made carrot ginger soup. Which RULED. It was comforting and spicy and perfect.
Here’s the recipe I used:
Classic Carrot Ginger Soup
vegan, serves 3
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
2 Tbsp ginger, peeled and sliced thin (add more to taste)
1 1/2 bunches of stemmed carrots (about 9 medium carrots)
3 Tbsp olive oil
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cups soy milk
1 small onion, diced
1 Tbsp agave or maple syrup
1 tsp black pepper
salt to taste
tools: blender and soup pot.
Stove-top Procedure:Heat oil, 2 Tbsp broth, onions, ginger and garlic in soup pan. Saute for a minute or two. Add remaining broth, soy milk, pepper, honey, and carrots. Bring to a simmer. Heat until carrots are soft and will break with a fork. If soup seems too thick, add more broth to adjust consistency
Take off heat and blend with immersion blender.
As I ate some last night and am about to go home and eat the rest for supper, I’ll be making it again soon mostly because I made barely a dent in the CSA abundance of carrots we have and because I didn’t make enough to share with Peter.
Try it. You won’t be sorry.
Skeezes me out. Big time.
Thanks to this book (and the Pollen), I’m now being hyper-vigilant again about what I put in my mouth. I spent most of my day off yesterday reminding myself that the box of macaroni and cheese on the shelf was NOT food. It was chemicals and salt and nutritionally a nightmare. And it wouldn’t even taste good. It would be comforting, sure, but ultimately I wouldn’t be getting anything out of it.
So I made carrot ginger soup. Which RULED. It was comforting and spicy and perfect.
Here’s the recipe I used:
Classic Carrot Ginger Soup
vegan, serves 3
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
2 Tbsp ginger, peeled and sliced thin (add more to taste)
1 1/2 bunches of stemmed carrots (about 9 medium carrots)
3 Tbsp olive oil
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cups soy milk
1 small onion, diced
1 Tbsp agave or maple syrup
1 tsp black pepper
salt to taste
tools: blender and soup pot.
Stove-top Procedure:Heat oil, 2 Tbsp broth, onions, ginger and garlic in soup pan. Saute for a minute or two. Add remaining broth, soy milk, pepper, honey, and carrots. Bring to a simmer. Heat until carrots are soft and will break with a fork. If soup seems too thick, add more broth to adjust consistency
Take off heat and blend with immersion blender.
As I ate some last night and am about to go home and eat the rest for supper, I’ll be making it again soon mostly because I made barely a dent in the CSA abundance of carrots we have and because I didn’t make enough to share with Peter.
Try it. You won’t be sorry.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
the awesomeness of becky
CHICAGO!
-I love you, Amtrak, but 2 ½ hours late into Chicago when I am a mere 7 minutes from Union Station just about killed me. I did manage to read one entire book: Michael Pollan’s “In Defense of Food.” It was inspiring.
-The Museum of Contemporary Art. I walked from the Mart to the museum and somehow managed to miss Michigan Ave. How? I know not. But I did still find the museum. It was smaller than I expected, but totally worth the walk.
-Drinking wine in a swanky showroom with Kevin and Becky. Because who gets to say they drank wine in a swanky showroom in the Merchandise Mart? Plus I got to see Kevin. I was told Peter and I are the only two people he knows who still buy music. I take that as a compliment.
-$2 PBR’s.
-La Gondola take-out. The.best.stuffed.gnocchi.ever. Pillows of heavenly potato-y goodness smothered in pesto. My mouth just started watering thinking about it.
-The BUS! I love taking the bus in Chicago. I’m afraid of the bus, but I love it. Next time I’m there I’m going to take it all on my own and pull the cord. Or at least I’m going to pull the cord.
-Myopic books, Reckless Records..oh, hell, I just love Wicker Park. I don’t care that it’s all trendied out.
-Whole Foods cheese counter. I got some sort of triple cream that I loved. Becky thought it tasted like ash. I thought it tasted like butter. I gotta say, though, being in that Whole Foods kind of made me insane. Granted it was 3:30pm on a Saturday, but holy hell. We were in loud, pushy, yuppie hell. I did get a Chicago dog. It was not as good as the Sandbar’s. Really.
-TRADER JOE’S! I would move into a Trader Joe’s if I could.
-Choosing not to stay on the couch watching a bad episode of Law and Order, but instead getting out and going to see “An Education.” Which was beautiful. Just charming and stunning and disturbing.
-MANICURE! My first. I’m officially not a fan of the color I got, but I am totally hooked. I cannot wait to go for my next one.
-MAKEOVER! At the Bobbi Brown counter at Macy’s. I did Chicago sooo cheap I ended up with quite a bit of money left over. Then I went to the Bobbi Brown counter at Macy’s and I didn’t have any money anymore. I regret nothing. My new lipgloss is delightful.
I heart Chicago. I am proud to say this was my THIRD trip this year-a new personal best. I wish I could make it back down there one more time before Christmas so I could walk Michigan Avenue and see all the pretty windows and not have any really good restaurants to eat at and enjoy the pushy obnoxious crowds…
You were right, Becky. That sounds like hell.
-I love you, Amtrak, but 2 ½ hours late into Chicago when I am a mere 7 minutes from Union Station just about killed me. I did manage to read one entire book: Michael Pollan’s “In Defense of Food.” It was inspiring.
-The Museum of Contemporary Art. I walked from the Mart to the museum and somehow managed to miss Michigan Ave. How? I know not. But I did still find the museum. It was smaller than I expected, but totally worth the walk.
-Drinking wine in a swanky showroom with Kevin and Becky. Because who gets to say they drank wine in a swanky showroom in the Merchandise Mart? Plus I got to see Kevin. I was told Peter and I are the only two people he knows who still buy music. I take that as a compliment.
-$2 PBR’s.
-La Gondola take-out. The.best.stuffed.gnocchi.ever. Pillows of heavenly potato-y goodness smothered in pesto. My mouth just started watering thinking about it.
-The BUS! I love taking the bus in Chicago. I’m afraid of the bus, but I love it. Next time I’m there I’m going to take it all on my own and pull the cord. Or at least I’m going to pull the cord.
-Myopic books, Reckless Records..oh, hell, I just love Wicker Park. I don’t care that it’s all trendied out.
-Whole Foods cheese counter. I got some sort of triple cream that I loved. Becky thought it tasted like ash. I thought it tasted like butter. I gotta say, though, being in that Whole Foods kind of made me insane. Granted it was 3:30pm on a Saturday, but holy hell. We were in loud, pushy, yuppie hell. I did get a Chicago dog. It was not as good as the Sandbar’s. Really.
-TRADER JOE’S! I would move into a Trader Joe’s if I could.
-Choosing not to stay on the couch watching a bad episode of Law and Order, but instead getting out and going to see “An Education.” Which was beautiful. Just charming and stunning and disturbing.
-MANICURE! My first. I’m officially not a fan of the color I got, but I am totally hooked. I cannot wait to go for my next one.
-MAKEOVER! At the Bobbi Brown counter at Macy’s. I did Chicago sooo cheap I ended up with quite a bit of money left over. Then I went to the Bobbi Brown counter at Macy’s and I didn’t have any money anymore. I regret nothing. My new lipgloss is delightful.
I heart Chicago. I am proud to say this was my THIRD trip this year-a new personal best. I wish I could make it back down there one more time before Christmas so I could walk Michigan Avenue and see all the pretty windows and not have any really good restaurants to eat at and enjoy the pushy obnoxious crowds…
You were right, Becky. That sounds like hell.
Monday, October 19, 2009
awesome october weekend #1
So. Ann Arbor.
Highlights:
The $3.50 Kussi oyster from Zingerman’s. Holy mouthful of sweet goodness. And the 2:30pm Grey Goose martini. Hey. I was on vacation.
Ashley’s. Of course. I had a Shorts Ooompa Loompa Licious IPA, a Dogfish Head 90 minute IPA, a Founder’s Pale, and a…a…oh I can’t remember. It was good. Hand pulled.
Wilco. I got to say I might have had way too high expectations. The band sounded great, but something was just not right with Tweedy’s mic. He sounded muffled. And that was extremely frustrating given how much I love their lyrics. Plus I think we’ve been spoiled by the Ladies Literary Club in GR because Hill seemed HUGE. And they seemed so far away. And we were in the lame-o undergrad date night section. The encore ruled. Here’s the set list.
The Motel 6 on South State St. $59.99 and it kind of ruled. Seriously. Laminate wood flooring and decorated all 60s Mod-like. I was no fan of the very loud heater and the fact we ended up in a smoking room, but I’d go back in the heartbeat. Beats paying $125 to be less than a quarter mile closer.
The Cloverleaf. Amazing hashbrowns, amazing ham and cheese omelet, and amazing toast. Plus being able to overhear the conversation between some regulars (2 slumlords-we’re pretty sure.) and the most new aged out waitress I’d seen in a long time was worth it alone.
Motte and Bailey bookstore: A first edition second printing of “A supposedly fun thing I’ll never do again” for $12.50.
Dawntreader bookstore: A first edition Charles Simic book. Signed. I’m not saying how much I paid, but it was worth it.
The Cupcake Station: The PB&C cupcake was a revelation.
Underground Sounds: Best selection of new vinyl I have ever seen. I walked out with Daniel Johnston and Panda Bear. And the proprietor ruled.
Wazoo Records: Slighly overwhelming, but great location and decent new vinyl.
On our last day of mini-vacation we went to the Corner Record Shop where we snagged 2 used Will Oldham records and thought we’d gotten our record player fixed (I don’t want to talk about the amount of vinyl I have that I STILL can’t listen to) and saw Where the Wild Things Are which, of course, we're supposed to like because of Spike Jonze and Karen O and Dave Eggers. I liked it because it was so true to those original 10 sentences Maurice Sendak wrote, but expanded to just the right length. And Spike Jonze, Karen O and Dave Eggers were a perfect match.
It ain't my fault hipster shit is good.
Highlights:
The $3.50 Kussi oyster from Zingerman’s. Holy mouthful of sweet goodness. And the 2:30pm Grey Goose martini. Hey. I was on vacation.
Ashley’s. Of course. I had a Shorts Ooompa Loompa Licious IPA, a Dogfish Head 90 minute IPA, a Founder’s Pale, and a…a…oh I can’t remember. It was good. Hand pulled.
Wilco. I got to say I might have had way too high expectations. The band sounded great, but something was just not right with Tweedy’s mic. He sounded muffled. And that was extremely frustrating given how much I love their lyrics. Plus I think we’ve been spoiled by the Ladies Literary Club in GR because Hill seemed HUGE. And they seemed so far away. And we were in the lame-o undergrad date night section. The encore ruled. Here’s the set list.
The Motel 6 on South State St. $59.99 and it kind of ruled. Seriously. Laminate wood flooring and decorated all 60s Mod-like. I was no fan of the very loud heater and the fact we ended up in a smoking room, but I’d go back in the heartbeat. Beats paying $125 to be less than a quarter mile closer.
The Cloverleaf. Amazing hashbrowns, amazing ham and cheese omelet, and amazing toast. Plus being able to overhear the conversation between some regulars (2 slumlords-we’re pretty sure.) and the most new aged out waitress I’d seen in a long time was worth it alone.
Motte and Bailey bookstore: A first edition second printing of “A supposedly fun thing I’ll never do again” for $12.50.
Dawntreader bookstore: A first edition Charles Simic book. Signed. I’m not saying how much I paid, but it was worth it.
The Cupcake Station: The PB&C cupcake was a revelation.
Underground Sounds: Best selection of new vinyl I have ever seen. I walked out with Daniel Johnston and Panda Bear. And the proprietor ruled.
Wazoo Records: Slighly overwhelming, but great location and decent new vinyl.
On our last day of mini-vacation we went to the Corner Record Shop where we snagged 2 used Will Oldham records and thought we’d gotten our record player fixed (I don’t want to talk about the amount of vinyl I have that I STILL can’t listen to) and saw Where the Wild Things Are which, of course, we're supposed to like because of Spike Jonze and Karen O and Dave Eggers. I liked it because it was so true to those original 10 sentences Maurice Sendak wrote, but expanded to just the right length. And Spike Jonze, Karen O and Dave Eggers were a perfect match.
It ain't my fault hipster shit is good.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
i don't know how kmart stayed open THIS long in holland
I hate not sleeping. I hate waking up at 4am completely wide awake wondering why I’m completely wide awake despite having gone to bed a mere 4 ½ hours earlier.
The day started fine-I even managed to walk to work. But this last hour is torture. Every.single.person.is.making.me.angry. I know it’s my lack of sleep, but I can’t seem to reign in the rage.
The walk home will probably do me good.
In other news:
I’m knitting like a fiend.
I made polenta and loved it.
Grace tolerated the presence of a dog.
Twice.
I believe I may have read 8ish books in the past month.
Most were meh. A few were good.
None were Infinite Jest.
Ghostface Killah is going to be at the Blind Pig.
I want to go.
I have my 3 month cancer checkup Thursday am.
If they find anything suspicious I might scream.
Friday is a big day: Zingerman’s Roadhouse and Wilco.
The day started fine-I even managed to walk to work. But this last hour is torture. Every.single.person.is.making.me.angry. I know it’s my lack of sleep, but I can’t seem to reign in the rage.
The walk home will probably do me good.
In other news:
I’m knitting like a fiend.
I made polenta and loved it.
Grace tolerated the presence of a dog.
Twice.
I believe I may have read 8ish books in the past month.
Most were meh. A few were good.
None were Infinite Jest.
Ghostface Killah is going to be at the Blind Pig.
I want to go.
I have my 3 month cancer checkup Thursday am.
If they find anything suspicious I might scream.
Friday is a big day: Zingerman’s Roadhouse and Wilco.
Friday, October 2, 2009
two weeks until wilco
I’m alive. I think. Sickness wiped me out this week and today is my first day back at work. I spent the week sleeping, reading, sleeping, watching Sex and the City, sleeping, watching Ken Burns’ National Parks documentary, sleeping, knitting, and sleeping.
I slept. A lot. I ate a lot of soup. I drank a lot of tea. I took a lot of Mucinex D. I took a lot of Tylenol PM. I went to the doctor who told me to stay home two more days, keep doing what I’m doing, and gave me a prescription for cough medicine which I didn’t think made me loopy until I took it at work and now I’m feeling loopy. I also have developed some sort of rash which the doctor seems to think is related to fever/chills but I’m not convinced isn’t an allergy to either Mucinex D or the amazing olives Kevin and Xtina brought me. It better be the Mucinex because I’m not going to stop eating the olives.
Poe has left us. It’s sad. It’s getting less sad, but the goodbye wasn’t pretty. Tears were shed. Grace took about a day and half before she ventured into the tv room. It wasn’t until she was in there I noticed how neglected she had been. I miss Poe, but it’s nice to have my big fat crabby Grace back.
Before my illness truly took hold I managed to hit up Salt of the Earth in Fennville with the Kapteyn-Dekkingas. It was good, solid, accessible food. It’s no Journeyman (nor should it be), but it’s reasonably priced and tasty for the most part. I would go back just for the homemade s’more which I’m still dreaming about.
This weekend: maybe go out for supper if I’m not completely dead by the end of the day, watch the last episode of National Parks, knit, market, hang with Peter outside the barn, and Neal John’s first birthday party.
FYI: homemade Christmas madness has begun.
I slept. A lot. I ate a lot of soup. I drank a lot of tea. I took a lot of Mucinex D. I took a lot of Tylenol PM. I went to the doctor who told me to stay home two more days, keep doing what I’m doing, and gave me a prescription for cough medicine which I didn’t think made me loopy until I took it at work and now I’m feeling loopy. I also have developed some sort of rash which the doctor seems to think is related to fever/chills but I’m not convinced isn’t an allergy to either Mucinex D or the amazing olives Kevin and Xtina brought me. It better be the Mucinex because I’m not going to stop eating the olives.
Poe has left us. It’s sad. It’s getting less sad, but the goodbye wasn’t pretty. Tears were shed. Grace took about a day and half before she ventured into the tv room. It wasn’t until she was in there I noticed how neglected she had been. I miss Poe, but it’s nice to have my big fat crabby Grace back.
Before my illness truly took hold I managed to hit up Salt of the Earth in Fennville with the Kapteyn-Dekkingas. It was good, solid, accessible food. It’s no Journeyman (nor should it be), but it’s reasonably priced and tasty for the most part. I would go back just for the homemade s’more which I’m still dreaming about.
This weekend: maybe go out for supper if I’m not completely dead by the end of the day, watch the last episode of National Parks, knit, market, hang with Peter outside the barn, and Neal John’s first birthday party.
FYI: homemade Christmas madness has begun.
Friday, September 25, 2009
what up:
Poe is going to live with upwardly mobile hip parents in Chicago. It’s for the best. It doesn’t make it any easier to let her go. Grace doesn’t know it yet, but she’s thrilled.
Neal walks and has two teeth and remains the cutest child in the world.
Work is work is work.
Saw The Books. It ruled.
Finished Infinite Jest. It took 2 ½ months and stands next to East of Eden as my favorite book of fiction. I’m now floundering for something to read. I’ve finished 3 books, but have ultimately been left unsatisfied.
Our Wilco-on-vinyl collection is growing.
I’d been running which was awesome. Then I stopped and my mood deteriorated. Running is back on the agenda.
Food-wise I’ve been making some stuff: a successful pasta goat cheese tomato walnut kale thing and a less-than-successful quinoa stuffed pepper thing. I followed a recipe and not my instincts and it was too cinnamoney. The end of market season is looming and though I’m bummed I’m not quite as devastated as I have been in the past. I’m actually really looking forward to some good bread-making, soup-creating, casserole-eating weather.
Any you?
Neal walks and has two teeth and remains the cutest child in the world.
Work is work is work.
Saw The Books. It ruled.
Finished Infinite Jest. It took 2 ½ months and stands next to East of Eden as my favorite book of fiction. I’m now floundering for something to read. I’ve finished 3 books, but have ultimately been left unsatisfied.
Our Wilco-on-vinyl collection is growing.
I’d been running which was awesome. Then I stopped and my mood deteriorated. Running is back on the agenda.
Food-wise I’ve been making some stuff: a successful pasta goat cheese tomato walnut kale thing and a less-than-successful quinoa stuffed pepper thing. I followed a recipe and not my instincts and it was too cinnamoney. The end of market season is looming and though I’m bummed I’m not quite as devastated as I have been in the past. I’m actually really looking forward to some good bread-making, soup-creating, casserole-eating weather.
Any you?
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
it's a good tired
Erin has discovered quinoa. Quinoa is good.
Saturday we went to Melissa and Reuben’s for supper (twinkie tiramisu is THE BEST DESSERT!) and Melissa had just bought a ton of quinoa for a ridiculously cheap price so she gave me some to try. Last night I toasted, rinsed, and cooked it then tossed it with kale, carrots, red onion, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil and white balsamic. She also sent me home with some leftover dressing (sweetish—I can’t remember all that was in it…sesame oil, maybe, soy sauce and sugar?) so I steamed some broccoli and tossed it with the dressing. And after that I decided I needed something for dessert so I made a little fake peach cobbler.
Yeah. My supper was the bomb.
In other news, Neal is the most cutest baby ever. I suspected as much though after observing him consume half an avocado and a fair amount of arugula pesto salad Saturday (I think Melissa discovered some avocado in a neck fold awhile after supper) and having the opportunity to see him this morning wobble his chin when Melissa would use her mean Mommy voice to tell him no (he’s a big faker!) I’m calling it official:. Cutest. Baby. Ever.
This morning post-Biscuit breakfast (apples! sharp white cheddar! thyme! in an omelet!), Peter and I headed to Laketown for a quick swim which was beyond awesome. It’s only the second time I’d been in the lake and though it was a touch chilly, sitting in the sun to dry off listening to the waves was gosh darn perfect.
This weekend: Hopefully going out with my gayboyfriend Michael Friday night, Saturday lunch with Melissa and then we’re going to see Julie & Julia (lunch beforehand is necessary, I hear, as I’ve read the movie is food porn), Saturday night is a big old question mark, and Sunday the Civil War Muster at VanRaalte Farms.
No. Seriously. We’re both ridiculously excited about going to the Civil War Muster at VanRaalte Farms. On bike.
You should come.
Saturday we went to Melissa and Reuben’s for supper (twinkie tiramisu is THE BEST DESSERT!) and Melissa had just bought a ton of quinoa for a ridiculously cheap price so she gave me some to try. Last night I toasted, rinsed, and cooked it then tossed it with kale, carrots, red onion, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil and white balsamic. She also sent me home with some leftover dressing (sweetish—I can’t remember all that was in it…sesame oil, maybe, soy sauce and sugar?) so I steamed some broccoli and tossed it with the dressing. And after that I decided I needed something for dessert so I made a little fake peach cobbler.
Yeah. My supper was the bomb.
In other news, Neal is the most cutest baby ever. I suspected as much though after observing him consume half an avocado and a fair amount of arugula pesto salad Saturday (I think Melissa discovered some avocado in a neck fold awhile after supper) and having the opportunity to see him this morning wobble his chin when Melissa would use her mean Mommy voice to tell him no (he’s a big faker!) I’m calling it official:. Cutest. Baby. Ever.
This morning post-Biscuit breakfast (apples! sharp white cheddar! thyme! in an omelet!), Peter and I headed to Laketown for a quick swim which was beyond awesome. It’s only the second time I’d been in the lake and though it was a touch chilly, sitting in the sun to dry off listening to the waves was gosh darn perfect.
This weekend: Hopefully going out with my gayboyfriend Michael Friday night, Saturday lunch with Melissa and then we’re going to see Julie & Julia (lunch beforehand is necessary, I hear, as I’ve read the movie is food porn), Saturday night is a big old question mark, and Sunday the Civil War Muster at VanRaalte Farms.
No. Seriously. We’re both ridiculously excited about going to the Civil War Muster at VanRaalte Farms. On bike.
You should come.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
running biking running
I overbought at the market.
I swore I wouldn’t do that.
In my defense, we actually get to eat supper together for the next two whole nights. Tomorrow night is pasta night where I was planning on using up the rest of the amazingly delicious asparagus roasted red pepper stuff I bought at the Green Market in Chicago and when I saw eggplant and peppers and laciano kale and beautiful looking tomatoes I figured my pasta sauce was complete. Friday night is grilling night so I needed to pick up romaine because grilled romaine is crazy good and Peter is skeptical. Tonight I was planning stir fry and the swiss chard was just so pretty and the broccoli looked so good and the red onion was calling my name.
We’ll eat it all. Yes. Yes, we will.
I’m this close to being half done with Infinite Jest. This book may have ruined fiction for me. It’s that good.
We have a new neighbor downstairs. Rumor has it her name is Erin. I have not met her yet. She’s got a big black lab, a cross over her door, a piano, and lacy curtains. Despite it not being my taste, it’s amazing how less…trashy the place looks. It helps that SHE has new windows and WE’RE still waiting. Once those are in I’m actually thinking curtains wouldn’t be such a bad idea. One of these days I’m going to introduce myself and I was thinking instead of a batch of cookies or something I’d give her a list of things in Holland she may not know about: lemonjellos, full circle, the market, that Meijer is significantly cheaper than Family Fare...that sort of thing. I have zero desire to be friends with her as the Family Compound Thing is something I wish I could rid my life of, but friendly is probably in order. It’s weird having someone below us. Not entirely bad, but different.
The big news:
Neal has a tooth.
I can’t wait to see it.
I swore I wouldn’t do that.
In my defense, we actually get to eat supper together for the next two whole nights. Tomorrow night is pasta night where I was planning on using up the rest of the amazingly delicious asparagus roasted red pepper stuff I bought at the Green Market in Chicago and when I saw eggplant and peppers and laciano kale and beautiful looking tomatoes I figured my pasta sauce was complete. Friday night is grilling night so I needed to pick up romaine because grilled romaine is crazy good and Peter is skeptical. Tonight I was planning stir fry and the swiss chard was just so pretty and the broccoli looked so good and the red onion was calling my name.
We’ll eat it all. Yes. Yes, we will.
I’m this close to being half done with Infinite Jest. This book may have ruined fiction for me. It’s that good.
We have a new neighbor downstairs. Rumor has it her name is Erin. I have not met her yet. She’s got a big black lab, a cross over her door, a piano, and lacy curtains. Despite it not being my taste, it’s amazing how less…trashy the place looks. It helps that SHE has new windows and WE’RE still waiting. Once those are in I’m actually thinking curtains wouldn’t be such a bad idea. One of these days I’m going to introduce myself and I was thinking instead of a batch of cookies or something I’d give her a list of things in Holland she may not know about: lemonjellos, full circle, the market, that Meijer is significantly cheaper than Family Fare...that sort of thing. I have zero desire to be friends with her as the Family Compound Thing is something I wish I could rid my life of, but friendly is probably in order. It’s weird having someone below us. Not entirely bad, but different.
The big news:
Neal has a tooth.
I can’t wait to see it.
Friday, July 24, 2009
i loved my beck pandora station until it played THREE radiohead songs in a row
Stuff I need to do this weekend:
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
Stuff I should do this weekend:
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
Stuff I’m gonna do this weekend:
make goat cheese, mushroom, arugula pizza
suffer through season 4 of six feet under
finish the lace scarf
go to the market
listen to kelly clarkson
run
bike
see harry potter
read infinite jest
hang with the bff
be cool
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
Stuff I should do this weekend:
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
clean the apartment
Stuff I’m gonna do this weekend:
make goat cheese, mushroom, arugula pizza
suffer through season 4 of six feet under
finish the lace scarf
go to the market
listen to kelly clarkson
run
bike
see harry potter
read infinite jest
hang with the bff
be cool
Friday, July 10, 2009
fowl should never be sexually abused. that just ain't right.
As of today I have biked a whopping 33 miles. Paltry for “real” bikers, but significant for me! I’ve hit the magic 10 miles which means…nothing, really, but it means a ride to Saugatuck and back is definitely going to happen this summer. I didn’t realize just how sad and depressed I was about being off for so long until I went back out there. To say I am grateful to have a working body again is an understatement. And technically I’m still stitched together!
This weekend:
market
pick up pattern from Kinkos
purchase elastic thread and maybe fabric
make dress
go for a ride
see Bruno
read Infinite Jest
knit on lace scarf
watch Six Feet Under
go for a ride with the bff
contemplate making a skirt
cook and eat good food
get excited about Chicago next weekend
This weekend:
market
pick up pattern from Kinkos
purchase elastic thread and maybe fabric
make dress
go for a ride
see Bruno
read Infinite Jest
knit on lace scarf
watch Six Feet Under
go for a ride with the bff
contemplate making a skirt
cook and eat good food
get excited about Chicago next weekend
Monday, July 6, 2009
it's a haircut kind of day
I am back on the bike. 8 slow miles yesterday. Am I supposed to be on the bike? I don’t know. My leg wound is oozing and itching and burning (yay for being allergic to internal stitches! yay for most likely being allergic to altabax!) but fuck it. I’m sick of being a lump. I’m sick of not being legitimately tired. I’m sick of my clothes not fitting. Six weeks of no exercise and “vacation” food is just not good. I’m taking back my healthy lifestyle.
Good things I consumed this weekend include:
a prosciutto, brie, arugula sammidge on delicious bread
a kale, red onion omelet with my first german butterball potatoes from visser farms
grilled organic chicken thighs marinated in peanut sauce with asian kohlrabi slaw
Sweet cherries are out. They aren’t SUPER sweet, but in a few weeks they’re gonna be amazing. The two pints we bought are almost gone. Peter was responsible for the kohlrabi as while at the eater’s guild stand purchasing kale and arugula he pointed out the kohlrabi and mentioned he pointed it out only because he was proud he knew what it was. The guy at the stand asked if we liked it and what we made with it and then proceeded to tell us to take a couple as he “didn’t want to bring them home.” I also suspect it was because we’re two-times-a-week-customers. And it was after 12pm. I’m usually an early morning market shopper, but the benefits to going later are starting to make sense.
In other news, Peter isn’t supposed to be buying any more new vinyl, but came home with the Black Keys new on vinyl. I’m reading Infinite Jest with two bookmarks and loving it. I taught myself how to knit lace. I’ve been watching Six Feet Under and various Star Trek movies. The Boyles joined us in the second annual pilgrim fireworks Saturday night.
And Pitchfork is coming.
Good things I consumed this weekend include:
a prosciutto, brie, arugula sammidge on delicious bread
a kale, red onion omelet with my first german butterball potatoes from visser farms
grilled organic chicken thighs marinated in peanut sauce with asian kohlrabi slaw
Sweet cherries are out. They aren’t SUPER sweet, but in a few weeks they’re gonna be amazing. The two pints we bought are almost gone. Peter was responsible for the kohlrabi as while at the eater’s guild stand purchasing kale and arugula he pointed out the kohlrabi and mentioned he pointed it out only because he was proud he knew what it was. The guy at the stand asked if we liked it and what we made with it and then proceeded to tell us to take a couple as he “didn’t want to bring them home.” I also suspect it was because we’re two-times-a-week-customers. And it was after 12pm. I’m usually an early morning market shopper, but the benefits to going later are starting to make sense.
In other news, Peter isn’t supposed to be buying any more new vinyl, but came home with the Black Keys new on vinyl. I’m reading Infinite Jest with two bookmarks and loving it. I taught myself how to knit lace. I’ve been watching Six Feet Under and various Star Trek movies. The Boyles joined us in the second annual pilgrim fireworks Saturday night.
And Pitchfork is coming.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
the word crazy seems appropriate
My parents are here!
Maybe a doctor’s appt today to confirm 1500mg of antibiotics a day ain’t cuttin’ it!
Supper tonight in Saugatuck!
Full moon patrons abound!
Everyone is coming into town this weekend!
Melissa and Reuben move Saturday!
Peace Festival madness happens Saturday!
Father’s Day Sunday at Melissa and Reuben’s new house!
Work Monday am!
Traverse City Monday-Thursday!
Baby Shower for my cousin Thursday night!
so…that’s my week.
Maybe a doctor’s appt today to confirm 1500mg of antibiotics a day ain’t cuttin’ it!
Supper tonight in Saugatuck!
Full moon patrons abound!
Everyone is coming into town this weekend!
Melissa and Reuben move Saturday!
Peace Festival madness happens Saturday!
Father’s Day Sunday at Melissa and Reuben’s new house!
Work Monday am!
Traverse City Monday-Thursday!
Baby Shower for my cousin Thursday night!
so…that’s my week.
Friday, June 12, 2009
the hangover really was quite funny
What I have done today:
made sugar bread french toast with strawberries.
scrubbed the bathtub with one leg NOT bent. hard, yo. that was hard.
changed the shower curtain.
started uncovering surfaces that need to be dusted.
stared at the barn wondering if dusting would really make a difference.
What I need to do today:
pot herbs.
dust.
vacuum.
vote for the write the night flaming lips show.
start cloud atlas.
make some sort of supper involving peas.
consider watching the red wings win tonight.
go to bed early.
What I need to do this weekend:
work.
go to the market for the last of the asparagus and more strawberries.
spend time with peetah.
move my friend michael.
come up with some sort of supper to bring to michael's new place sunday night.
attempt to make the barn smell less mildew-y.
buy houseplants.
made sugar bread french toast with strawberries.
scrubbed the bathtub with one leg NOT bent. hard, yo. that was hard.
changed the shower curtain.
started uncovering surfaces that need to be dusted.
stared at the barn wondering if dusting would really make a difference.
What I need to do today:
pot herbs.
dust.
vacuum.
vote for the write the night flaming lips show.
start cloud atlas.
make some sort of supper involving peas.
consider watching the red wings win tonight.
go to bed early.
What I need to do this weekend:
work.
go to the market for the last of the asparagus and more strawberries.
spend time with peetah.
move my friend michael.
come up with some sort of supper to bring to michael's new place sunday night.
attempt to make the barn smell less mildew-y.
buy houseplants.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
michigan strawberries, man. michigan.freaking.strawberries.
This day started with my coworker Julie telling me she saw strawberries at the market. I doubted her. It’s so early for strawberries. I was sure I’d get down there and it’d be one of those stands that sells bananas and apples and lemons-one of those stands I refuse to buy from. Imagine my surprise when it wasn’t just one stand, but multiple stands. I bought from a woman who had the ever-so-important “we only sell what we grow” sign. Her farm is in St. Joseph and she said they’ve been picking for TWO WEEKS. They weren’t organic, but I decided to throw caution to the wind and eat one right then and there. Heaven, people. These strawberries are little juicy sweet morsels. I bought some sugar bread from DeBoer and am seriously considering making French toast for supper. Or maybe being even more crazy and getting up early tomorrow to make it before work.
And I got peas. Yummy.
Summer reading club has officially started. Monday we checked out almost 6,500 items and took in over $1,000. We tripled our circs for a “normal” Monday. I’m tired. Being on desk is exhausting. So many books, so many registrations, so many children with these stupid little pens that have a bobble-y headed top and a suction cup bottom. So many parents who are terrible at parenting. And the smiling! I’ve been joking that I’m going to start putting Vaseline on my teeth ala beauty queen so I don’t have to work so hard.
I’m pretty sure it’s supposed to be Friday today.
And I got peas. Yummy.
Summer reading club has officially started. Monday we checked out almost 6,500 items and took in over $1,000. We tripled our circs for a “normal” Monday. I’m tired. Being on desk is exhausting. So many books, so many registrations, so many children with these stupid little pens that have a bobble-y headed top and a suction cup bottom. So many parents who are terrible at parenting. And the smiling! I’ve been joking that I’m going to start putting Vaseline on my teeth ala beauty queen so I don’t have to work so hard.
I’m pretty sure it’s supposed to be Friday today.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
i am no longer stitched together. i am glued and taped.
I suspect this is progress.
What I have been up to:
Discussing the validity of star dates in Star Trek: Worthless endeavor as even Gene Roddenberry said they were nonsense and Star Trek isn’t real.
Going to the farmers market to procure plants: 2 brandywines, 1 Mr. Stripey, 2 romas, and a whole mess of herbs.
Trying to learn how to grill: grilled lemon garlic chicken, grilled asparagus, and grilled potatoes were delicious if I do say so myself. Next up I’m thinking eggplant or mushrooms or burgers.
Enjoying not being homebound: I like my job. Next week summer reading program begins. I will probably not like my job so much.
Going to Butch’s: I actually only went last night for the first time in awhile, but I ate some delicious stuff-a savory shitake mushroom shallot cheesecake, grilled halibut on a bed of pepper fettuccini tossed with kalamata olives, roasted peppers, tomatoes, goat cheese, garlic and olive oil, and a peanut butter cheesecake speckled with chocolate. I also had an outstanding martini, a delicious pinot grigio, and a really nice malbec. Plus I went with my gayboyfriend Michael whom I adore.
Not enjoying My Antonia since finishing East of Eden: I’m trying, I really am, but honestly does Willa Cather have to be so…square?
Sudoku: I’m obsessed. It’s like Tetris. It’s like a crossword puzzle. It’s like not doing nothing.
Tonight: Grand Opening of the Boys and Girls Club Northside followed by lasagna made with market spinach, a glass of wine, a walk on the boardwalk, and an early night in bed.
This weekend is gonna be good.
What I have been up to:
Discussing the validity of star dates in Star Trek: Worthless endeavor as even Gene Roddenberry said they were nonsense and Star Trek isn’t real.
Going to the farmers market to procure plants: 2 brandywines, 1 Mr. Stripey, 2 romas, and a whole mess of herbs.
Trying to learn how to grill: grilled lemon garlic chicken, grilled asparagus, and grilled potatoes were delicious if I do say so myself. Next up I’m thinking eggplant or mushrooms or burgers.
Enjoying not being homebound: I like my job. Next week summer reading program begins. I will probably not like my job so much.
Going to Butch’s: I actually only went last night for the first time in awhile, but I ate some delicious stuff-a savory shitake mushroom shallot cheesecake, grilled halibut on a bed of pepper fettuccini tossed with kalamata olives, roasted peppers, tomatoes, goat cheese, garlic and olive oil, and a peanut butter cheesecake speckled with chocolate. I also had an outstanding martini, a delicious pinot grigio, and a really nice malbec. Plus I went with my gayboyfriend Michael whom I adore.
Not enjoying My Antonia since finishing East of Eden: I’m trying, I really am, but honestly does Willa Cather have to be so…square?
Sudoku: I’m obsessed. It’s like Tetris. It’s like a crossword puzzle. It’s like not doing nothing.
Tonight: Grand Opening of the Boys and Girls Club Northside followed by lasagna made with market spinach, a glass of wine, a walk on the boardwalk, and an early night in bed.
This weekend is gonna be good.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
thou mayest
I’m not calling it a funk. I’m calling it having-melanoma-removed-from-my-leg-so-I-might-be-acting-strange-especially-since-there-seems-to-be-a lot-of strange-things-happening-around-me-in-addition-to-the-cancer.
Weirdness has permeated my life.
Goodness too:
Only having Stage II Melanoma!
Becky coming to Holland to eat cheese!
Michael talking deep Star Trek!
The Peter Berghoef Memorial Weekend Nano Mix Spectacular!
Timshel!
Hammock season!
This American Life Season 2 on DVD!
My best friend from high school swinging through Holland in July!
The Davisons are coming! The Davisons are coming!
Weirdness has permeated my life.
Goodness too:
Only having Stage II Melanoma!
Becky coming to Holland to eat cheese!
Michael talking deep Star Trek!
The Peter Berghoef Memorial Weekend Nano Mix Spectacular!
Timshel!
Hammock season!
This American Life Season 2 on DVD!
My best friend from high school swinging through Holland in July!
The Davisons are coming! The Davisons are coming!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
hmpf
I’m in a bad mood. I think it’s the lack of exercise, my slow gimpy self, the prospect of being at the library seven straight days in a row, a wedding I don’t want to attend, a Poe/Grace situation that doesn’t seem to be improving despite me desperately wanting it to improve, impending rain, some people’s dumb faces, not having a ride home tomorrow night from work and virtually no options, knowing everyone can listen to the new Wilco album but me, bitch, bitch, bitch, moan, moan, moan.
There are numerous reasons I shouldn’t be in a bad mood. The Farmers Market started today! I haven’t heard from my dermatologist which is only a good sign! I will eventually be able to run/walk/bike again! I have a job that more than adequately pays for my life! I have a job that I don’t completely hate! I got my summer reading tshirt today and it’s purple! I get to cook something yummy tonight! I’m going to Pitchfork! We got a free nano! We’re thiiiis close to being able to buy our MacBook! Becky’s coming to visit soon! Lost’s season finale is on tonight and I get to see it!
I only have to endure 26 minutes more of work!
There are numerous reasons I shouldn’t be in a bad mood. The Farmers Market started today! I haven’t heard from my dermatologist which is only a good sign! I will eventually be able to run/walk/bike again! I have a job that more than adequately pays for my life! I have a job that I don’t completely hate! I got my summer reading tshirt today and it’s purple! I get to cook something yummy tonight! I’m going to Pitchfork! We got a free nano! We’re thiiiis close to being able to buy our MacBook! Becky’s coming to visit soon! Lost’s season finale is on tonight and I get to see it!
I only have to endure 26 minutes more of work!
Monday, May 4, 2009
there is no hidden message. it's just randomness.
I am a fast shelver. I am a fast shelver because I like the alphabet, I am genetically predisposed thanks to my Mom, and I practice practice practice.
Three bottles of red wine between two best friends will most definitely result in a hangover.
There is little in Holland not within biking distance.
Even snot-bubble blowing drool-y babies are adorable when they fall asleep on you.
Tulip Time is not the abomination I once thought. It’s actually kind of nice and pretty. Plus, you know, fireworks.
Memorial Day weekend will just work itself out.
My life may be predictable, but at least it’s drama-free.
I never tire of Blitzen Trapper.
Science tells me that to avoid getting sick I just need to wash my hands. This has been my plan since I was about 6 years old. I’m sticking with it.
Three bottles of red wine between two best friends will most definitely result in a hangover.
There is little in Holland not within biking distance.
Even snot-bubble blowing drool-y babies are adorable when they fall asleep on you.
Tulip Time is not the abomination I once thought. It’s actually kind of nice and pretty. Plus, you know, fireworks.
Memorial Day weekend will just work itself out.
My life may be predictable, but at least it’s drama-free.
I never tire of Blitzen Trapper.
Science tells me that to avoid getting sick I just need to wash my hands. This has been my plan since I was about 6 years old. I’m sticking with it.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
no, i did not make out with swine in mexico
what I have been doing:
being a union man
skipping groove walk
going to detroit with the bff for the noah and the whale show
not enjoying olive kitteridge, the latest pulitzer winner
enjoying independence day by richard ford
helping friends through various crises
preparing for tulip time
watching poe’s poll numbers drop
catching up on sleep
wondering how some people manage to tie their own shoes let alone hold a job
listening to the new dylan
crossword puzzles
being a union man
skipping groove walk
going to detroit with the bff for the noah and the whale show
not enjoying olive kitteridge, the latest pulitzer winner
enjoying independence day by richard ford
helping friends through various crises
preparing for tulip time
watching poe’s poll numbers drop
catching up on sleep
wondering how some people manage to tie their own shoes let alone hold a job
listening to the new dylan
crossword puzzles
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
if blitzen trapper isn't my new favorite band i don't know what is
It’s cold, rainy, and damp. I’m nursing a headache (weather-related?) and at work until 9pm with a union meetin’ after that which means I most likely won’t get home until after 10 and I have to work tomorrow at 8. I have never gone to a union meeting, but we’re renegotiating the contract and for the first time I actually care. In fact, I care enough I put my name in to be on the negotiating team. This could be an epic mistake as no matter what the contract outcome I’m sure I’ll hear plenty of opinions on how it turned out. But I’d rather be in there getting my hands dirty than not.
Let the games begin.
National Record Store Day was a success: Dylan 7", Tom Waits 7", Blitzen Trapper 7", Dan Auerbach's solo album, a used copy of Infidels for $5.99, and the new Brian Wilson which was thrown into our purchase for the cost of me giving our LRS proprietor a pen. It sounds like the day was a success and I hope it continues to be an annual thing. Next year I promised baked goods to Steve.
The blessed union of Grace and Poe continues. They are now capable of sitting in the same room with minimal growling and hissing. I consider this progress. I’ve taken to calling Poe “Miss Fancypants” as she has a tendency to parade about. Man, that cat is plucky. And a purr factory. Grace doesn’t seem unhappy unless Poe invades her territory. The look on Grace’s face when she hears Poe scratching on her scratchy box is priceless. Mostly Grace works hard at pretending Poe doesn’t exist.
This weekend:
Friday night: Peter is working. I will most likely be going for a ride as the weather is finally supposed to change back to spring
Saturday: go for a ride in the AM; bake Xtina cookies and deliver to various interested parties; attend Groove Walk downtown on bike
Sunday: Head to Detroit for Noah and the Whale with the BFF at the Magic Bag which sadly means missing Melissa's bday extravaganza in GR. Ways to make it up to her are in the works.
Don’t you all wish you were here?
Let the games begin.
National Record Store Day was a success: Dylan 7", Tom Waits 7", Blitzen Trapper 7", Dan Auerbach's solo album, a used copy of Infidels for $5.99, and the new Brian Wilson which was thrown into our purchase for the cost of me giving our LRS proprietor a pen. It sounds like the day was a success and I hope it continues to be an annual thing. Next year I promised baked goods to Steve.
The blessed union of Grace and Poe continues. They are now capable of sitting in the same room with minimal growling and hissing. I consider this progress. I’ve taken to calling Poe “Miss Fancypants” as she has a tendency to parade about. Man, that cat is plucky. And a purr factory. Grace doesn’t seem unhappy unless Poe invades her territory. The look on Grace’s face when she hears Poe scratching on her scratchy box is priceless. Mostly Grace works hard at pretending Poe doesn’t exist.
This weekend:
Friday night: Peter is working. I will most likely be going for a ride as the weather is finally supposed to change back to spring
Saturday: go for a ride in the AM; bake Xtina cookies and deliver to various interested parties; attend Groove Walk downtown on bike
Sunday: Head to Detroit for Noah and the Whale with the BFF at the Magic Bag which sadly means missing Melissa's bday extravaganza in GR. Ways to make it up to her are in the works.
Don’t you all wish you were here?
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
no one likes a pedant
Things I grow weary of:
pirates
kitty litter in the tv room
ridiculous work drama
not having my bike in working order
waiting for the new Dylan
definitive tones
gmail being funky
cds
patrons not getting the concept of what a library is
self-righteous people
the tulip time parade right to life float flap
Things I look forward to:
noah and the whale
smothered pork chops, roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes
60 degree temps
green being the new rust
two well-adjusted kitties peacefully coexisting
record store day
bike commuting
new windows
the first hike in the dunes
weeding
finishing fortress of solitude
my tax return money
reading the translation issue of poetry
chicken milk
pirates
kitty litter in the tv room
ridiculous work drama
not having my bike in working order
waiting for the new Dylan
definitive tones
gmail being funky
cds
patrons not getting the concept of what a library is
self-righteous people
the tulip time parade right to life float flap
Things I look forward to:
noah and the whale
smothered pork chops, roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes
60 degree temps
green being the new rust
two well-adjusted kitties peacefully coexisting
record store day
bike commuting
new windows
the first hike in the dunes
weeding
finishing fortress of solitude
my tax return money
reading the translation issue of poetry
chicken milk
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
getting to know you
What we did in Grand Rapids:
Ate at Marie Catrib’s: It was good, but not outstanding. Excellent homemade sausage and rye toast though. Homemade sausage may be in my future.
Wandered around Eastown: Argos rocked, Redux sucked, and I somehow misplaced Mulligans.
Hit up Purple East: When did it get so…unlike what I remember Purple East to be like?
Wandered around downtown: The Schuler is pathetically small, Scavenger hunt was pathetically overpriced, but Vertigo came through with a decently priced LP of Summer in the Southeast. Plus the plethora of homeless guys hanging out on Division were just cool.
Went to Brick Road Pizza Co for lunch: Daaaaaang. Vegan Philly Cheesesteak sammidge, vegan mac and cheese, and a piping hot vegan chocolate chip cookie. Super cool atmosphere and super cool staff.
Wandered into Literary Life bookstore: say whaaaaat?! There’s a bookstore out there that stocks just the books Erin wants to read?! I might have bought some David Foster Wallace. Maybe.
Stopped in at The Art of the Table: was underwhelmed until I found 3 different kinds of cheese from the Cowgirl Creamery. Is $25 too much spend on that, Kevin?
Ended at Founders: Yum. Just. Yum.
The best part was wandering around the city on foot for the most part despite the cold temperatures. GR is small. It’s smaller than it seems when one is in a car. I really think GR is poised for…something. There are all of these really old empty storefronts just waiting for thrift stores and coffee shops and restaurants and bookstores and galleries and the like. I only wish I could get a job there as I’d move in a heartbeat. I love Holland, but GR has this incredible potential and a pretty cool unique small neighborhoods thing one could compare to Chicago. I got all excited about it until Peter reminded me that it would probably cease to be cool once it got all cool and he’s probably right. Still there are good things happening there. And I aim to spend more time doing those good things.
Ate at Marie Catrib’s: It was good, but not outstanding. Excellent homemade sausage and rye toast though. Homemade sausage may be in my future.
Wandered around Eastown: Argos rocked, Redux sucked, and I somehow misplaced Mulligans.
Hit up Purple East: When did it get so…unlike what I remember Purple East to be like?
Wandered around downtown: The Schuler is pathetically small, Scavenger hunt was pathetically overpriced, but Vertigo came through with a decently priced LP of Summer in the Southeast. Plus the plethora of homeless guys hanging out on Division were just cool.
Went to Brick Road Pizza Co for lunch: Daaaaaang. Vegan Philly Cheesesteak sammidge, vegan mac and cheese, and a piping hot vegan chocolate chip cookie. Super cool atmosphere and super cool staff.
Wandered into Literary Life bookstore: say whaaaaat?! There’s a bookstore out there that stocks just the books Erin wants to read?! I might have bought some David Foster Wallace. Maybe.
Stopped in at The Art of the Table: was underwhelmed until I found 3 different kinds of cheese from the Cowgirl Creamery. Is $25 too much spend on that, Kevin?
Ended at Founders: Yum. Just. Yum.
The best part was wandering around the city on foot for the most part despite the cold temperatures. GR is small. It’s smaller than it seems when one is in a car. I really think GR is poised for…something. There are all of these really old empty storefronts just waiting for thrift stores and coffee shops and restaurants and bookstores and galleries and the like. I only wish I could get a job there as I’d move in a heartbeat. I love Holland, but GR has this incredible potential and a pretty cool unique small neighborhoods thing one could compare to Chicago. I got all excited about it until Peter reminded me that it would probably cease to be cool once it got all cool and he’s probably right. Still there are good things happening there. And I aim to spend more time doing those good things.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
nappy cats and sad blowjobs
Poe is in the house, yo.
In less than 24 hours she went from refusing to leave her kitty carrier to doing lines of nip on her new scratchy box and rubbing all up against you when you walk in the room. Food has been eaten, litter has been used. Grace is less than thrilled to be banned from the tv room, but aside from a little (terrifying!) growling she mostly seems to be looking at us with this “Hey. HEY! I’m not sure if you guys are aware of this or not, but I think there’s ANOTHER CAT in that room!” expression. I think tonight is the night we do the big introduction. Peter and I will be armed with squirt guns and water bottles if things get out of hand.
So…State beat Connecticut. Huh. 8 minutes from the end Travis and I got all nervous as UConn looked like they might pull it together and State looked like they do when they’re about to fall apart. But they pulled it off. With lots of fouls, but they pulled it off. I could only stomach the first half of the UNC/Villanova game (in the first 3 minutes UNC managed to score the same number of 3-pointers UConn did…the whole.game.) as I wanted to enjoy the win just a little bit longer before the reality of State having to take them on Monday night sunk in. We have some things going for us: we’re the Cinderella team, we’ve got the hometown crowd, and we really really really really need this. But UNC looks so well rounded. Great defense, amazing outside shooting, and they don’t seem to ever miss foul shots (a personal pet peeve of mine. You’re 12 feet from the basket with no one’s hand in your face. You should be able to make that freaking shot with your eyes closed). They’re a classy team. But you know what? We’re hungry. We’ll take nothing for granted. And we will find their weaknesses and destroy them.
Ahem. I really want us to win Monday. Bad.
Tuesday night if you’re in GR (5ish maybe?) you should come to Founders and hang out.
In less than 24 hours she went from refusing to leave her kitty carrier to doing lines of nip on her new scratchy box and rubbing all up against you when you walk in the room. Food has been eaten, litter has been used. Grace is less than thrilled to be banned from the tv room, but aside from a little (terrifying!) growling she mostly seems to be looking at us with this “Hey. HEY! I’m not sure if you guys are aware of this or not, but I think there’s ANOTHER CAT in that room!” expression. I think tonight is the night we do the big introduction. Peter and I will be armed with squirt guns and water bottles if things get out of hand.
So…State beat Connecticut. Huh. 8 minutes from the end Travis and I got all nervous as UConn looked like they might pull it together and State looked like they do when they’re about to fall apart. But they pulled it off. With lots of fouls, but they pulled it off. I could only stomach the first half of the UNC/Villanova game (in the first 3 minutes UNC managed to score the same number of 3-pointers UConn did…the whole.game.) as I wanted to enjoy the win just a little bit longer before the reality of State having to take them on Monday night sunk in. We have some things going for us: we’re the Cinderella team, we’ve got the hometown crowd, and we really really really really need this. But UNC looks so well rounded. Great defense, amazing outside shooting, and they don’t seem to ever miss foul shots (a personal pet peeve of mine. You’re 12 feet from the basket with no one’s hand in your face. You should be able to make that freaking shot with your eyes closed). They’re a classy team. But you know what? We’re hungry. We’ll take nothing for granted. And we will find their weaknesses and destroy them.
Ahem. I really want us to win Monday. Bad.
Tuesday night if you’re in GR (5ish maybe?) you should come to Founders and hang out.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
i'm starting to wonder if i might not be turning into a republican
Tomorrow is Friday. This is good.
Spring cleaning is happening this weekend. Spring cleaning means there will be shop vac-ing. There will be shelves emptied and wiped down. Items will be examined and their usefulness determined. There is talk of a mass book-weeding. Various dust bunnies will meet their tragic end under the bed.
Also this weekend:
Move Poe
Make food
Watch State game
Eat birthday cake with Travis
Work Sunday
Tuesday I took the day off to spend the day with my BFF hanging out the Grandest of Rapids like tourists. The butterflies will be seen, Vertigo will be visited, and a trip to Founders should just about make that a practically perfect day.
Spring cleaning is happening this weekend. Spring cleaning means there will be shop vac-ing. There will be shelves emptied and wiped down. Items will be examined and their usefulness determined. There is talk of a mass book-weeding. Various dust bunnies will meet their tragic end under the bed.
Also this weekend:
Move Poe
Make food
Watch State game
Eat birthday cake with Travis
Work Sunday
Tuesday I took the day off to spend the day with my BFF hanging out the Grandest of Rapids like tourists. The butterflies will be seen, Vertigo will be visited, and a trip to Founders should just about make that a practically perfect day.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
one slice of bread with peanut butter on it no cut no fold no butter
Things not to do when you have to work the next morning at 8am and it’s your friend Travis’ birthday:
drink a Gordon’s vodka martini
eat salad without protein for supper
Tonight:
Eat something horribly bad for me as tomorrow begins spring renewal/spiritual awakening/start running/get healthy days.
Seriously. It’s time.
drink a Gordon’s vodka martini
eat salad without protein for supper
Tonight:
Eat something horribly bad for me as tomorrow begins spring renewal/spiritual awakening/start running/get healthy days.
Seriously. It’s time.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
the last call for aunt julie
Things that have happened this week I failed to mention as my internet time has been severely restricted ‘cause I got busted for being on the internet too much at work:
I went on home visits with my coworker Sue. This is where 2 totally intimidating library employees (Me: wearing legwarmers; Sue: 50-something short and smiley Irish Catholic woman) go knock on the doors of people who never returned anywhere from $150-$1000 worth of library materials and attempt to recover them. The good news: we didn’t get shot, bitten by a dog, or arrested for breaking and entering (the last could have been a possibility as Sue briefly contemplated going into a foreclosed home to see if amongst the ridiculous amount of trash strewn about we might find a cd or a dvd or two). The bad news: we recovered nothing. First two houses were empty (welcome to living in Michigan!), next two places we heard things like “well he lives in Detroit and he said he returned them things and I know you can steal outta that there box as I done it myself, I mean, I put ‘em back but you can steal shit outta there!” and the last place we saw a naked 60-something year old man. Thankfully we could only see to his waist. This was also the same neighborhood where I came up with what might be the title of Peter's next chapbook: 5 mexican children rolling down a hill. Good times.
I’m buying heirloom tomato and bean seeds and hopefully making raised beds. My coworker Alice brought me seed catalogues. I have dubbed them Veggie Porn.
Saturday night we went to Melissa and Reuben’s house for supper and cards. Neal was so chatty that at one point Melissa took him from Peter thinking he was crying. He was not. He was just.that.vocal. An hour later we wished we could tell Neal that he was truly in the most perfect place nestled up against his Momma wrapped in an afghan and having a bottle. That child is amazing. The same night Reuben blindsided us into taking Poe. JUST FOR A WEEK! But if it works out with Grace we’re going to keep her. And if it doesn’t work out there’s going to be a really cute slightly skittish long haired kitty up for adoption.
A poem I wrote a very long time ago came out in print this week. It’s kind of cool seeing my name in print, but I really hate the publication and quite honestly am not that fond of the poem any more.
The blog title is thanks to a very special episode of Seventh Heaven during which, you’ll be surprised to learn, Aunt Julie has become an alcoholic and strangles Simon in an attempt to get the liquor cabinet key away from him. This episode taught me never to stop drinking as the withdrawal symptoms appear to be awfully similar to what I imagine the withdrawal symptoms are for heroin.
I went on home visits with my coworker Sue. This is where 2 totally intimidating library employees (Me: wearing legwarmers; Sue: 50-something short and smiley Irish Catholic woman) go knock on the doors of people who never returned anywhere from $150-$1000 worth of library materials and attempt to recover them. The good news: we didn’t get shot, bitten by a dog, or arrested for breaking and entering (the last could have been a possibility as Sue briefly contemplated going into a foreclosed home to see if amongst the ridiculous amount of trash strewn about we might find a cd or a dvd or two). The bad news: we recovered nothing. First two houses were empty (welcome to living in Michigan!), next two places we heard things like “well he lives in Detroit and he said he returned them things and I know you can steal outta that there box as I done it myself, I mean, I put ‘em back but you can steal shit outta there!” and the last place we saw a naked 60-something year old man. Thankfully we could only see to his waist. This was also the same neighborhood where I came up with what might be the title of Peter's next chapbook: 5 mexican children rolling down a hill. Good times.
I’m buying heirloom tomato and bean seeds and hopefully making raised beds. My coworker Alice brought me seed catalogues. I have dubbed them Veggie Porn.
Saturday night we went to Melissa and Reuben’s house for supper and cards. Neal was so chatty that at one point Melissa took him from Peter thinking he was crying. He was not. He was just.that.vocal. An hour later we wished we could tell Neal that he was truly in the most perfect place nestled up against his Momma wrapped in an afghan and having a bottle. That child is amazing. The same night Reuben blindsided us into taking Poe. JUST FOR A WEEK! But if it works out with Grace we’re going to keep her. And if it doesn’t work out there’s going to be a really cute slightly skittish long haired kitty up for adoption.
A poem I wrote a very long time ago came out in print this week. It’s kind of cool seeing my name in print, but I really hate the publication and quite honestly am not that fond of the poem any more.
The blog title is thanks to a very special episode of Seventh Heaven during which, you’ll be surprised to learn, Aunt Julie has become an alcoholic and strangles Simon in an attempt to get the liquor cabinet key away from him. This episode taught me never to stop drinking as the withdrawal symptoms appear to be awfully similar to what I imagine the withdrawal symptoms are for heroin.
Monday, March 23, 2009
be wary of the she-bear
This weekend I
made outstanding rice and beans
and mango avocado salad
and Xtina’s cookies
and got IPAed
and saw a happy grubby talking baby
and played euchre not badly
and swept the driveway
and baked bread
and raked leaves
and discussed possible chapbook titles
This week I
apply for a new grown-up 40 hour a week position at the library
be cool
made outstanding rice and beans
and mango avocado salad
and Xtina’s cookies
and got IPAed
and saw a happy grubby talking baby
and played euchre not badly
and swept the driveway
and baked bread
and raked leaves
and discussed possible chapbook titles
This week I
apply for a new grown-up 40 hour a week position at the library
be cool
Friday, March 20, 2009
spring has sprung
We’re joining a CSA. Eater’s Guild has $285 half shares with a $50 salad extra add-on from mid-May to mid-November. Given how much money I’m apt to spend on produce, I’m relatively certain we’re going to save some serious money and we’ll be eating organic. I’m pretty excited about the plan-your-meals-based-on-the-box thing too. It’s one thing to come up with a recipe based on what you want to eat. It’s a whole other way of cooking when you eat based on what you get.
I’ve decided to not go full out with a garden as I previously wanted to. Instead I’m going to try to grow heirloom tomatoes. From seed. And then try and propagate the seeds for next year. Because nothing is sexier than heirloom tomatoes.
I’m going to attempt to make bread without yeast. Because, you know, I’m such a freaking expert bread maker I thought I’d add a couple of more ways I might screw up. Like 14 days worth of possible ways to screw up. But seriously, I took out the Reinhart book and I’m going for it. I’m sick of spending over $5 a loaf for sprouted whole grain bread. I can do this myself.
I baked the infamous Xtina cookies last night sans eggs (seriously! flax seed works!), but avec butter (I just cannot bring myself to buy earth balance which is so…manufactured when I can just buy organic butter for baking) and though good they’re missing…something. Well, half of them are missing being in the shape of a cookie as my stove is so teeny I only have one small cookie sheet so the remainder of the dough was made into bars. Nothing says Midwestern dessert like a bar. I think it’s because I used walnuts instead of almonds. And I was on the phone as I was mixing them so I know didn’t mix them as well as I could. Regardless, it was easy and a perfect recipe for starting off on a cooking-baking adventure.
Tonight: Spanish brown rice, black beans, mango and avocado salad, tamales, and oaxacan chile salsa made with the infamous de-seeded by Erin without gloves chiles.
And beer. Of course.
I’ve decided to not go full out with a garden as I previously wanted to. Instead I’m going to try to grow heirloom tomatoes. From seed. And then try and propagate the seeds for next year. Because nothing is sexier than heirloom tomatoes.
I’m going to attempt to make bread without yeast. Because, you know, I’m such a freaking expert bread maker I thought I’d add a couple of more ways I might screw up. Like 14 days worth of possible ways to screw up. But seriously, I took out the Reinhart book and I’m going for it. I’m sick of spending over $5 a loaf for sprouted whole grain bread. I can do this myself.
I baked the infamous Xtina cookies last night sans eggs (seriously! flax seed works!), but avec butter (I just cannot bring myself to buy earth balance which is so…manufactured when I can just buy organic butter for baking) and though good they’re missing…something. Well, half of them are missing being in the shape of a cookie as my stove is so teeny I only have one small cookie sheet so the remainder of the dough was made into bars. Nothing says Midwestern dessert like a bar. I think it’s because I used walnuts instead of almonds. And I was on the phone as I was mixing them so I know didn’t mix them as well as I could. Regardless, it was easy and a perfect recipe for starting off on a cooking-baking adventure.
Tonight: Spanish brown rice, black beans, mango and avocado salad, tamales, and oaxacan chile salsa made with the infamous de-seeded by Erin without gloves chiles.
And beer. Of course.
Monday, March 16, 2009
choosing to get married is like sitting at the whites only lunch counter
Good hollandaise sauce can be a spiritual experience.
As can homemade sausage.
And vegan cookies.
And shallots.
Bonnie Prince Billy at the Vic ranks somewhere in the top 3 best shows I have ever seen. It might have had something to do with being in the fourth row, but more likely it had something to do with his awesomeness.
I barely recognized Chicago. And I’m still not over $2.25 WITHOUT a TRANSFER for the CTA. What I did recognize was that feeling I get whenever I’m in a city: pure love. I love walking from neighborhood to neighborhood. I love the architecture. I love how there is always something going on somewhere. I love the variety of people. What I didn’t love was how gentrified everything felt. Wicker Park was, uh, slightly different than I remember. Marc Jacobs? BCBG? Steve Madden?!? Thankfully there are still places like Myopic Books and Reckless Records nestled amongst the Starbucks and the soon-to-open Jimmy Johns. Next time I would like to see in the daylight what happened to my old stomping grounds around Belmont and Sheffield.
And by “next time” I hope it to be sooner rather than later.
As can homemade sausage.
And vegan cookies.
And shallots.
Bonnie Prince Billy at the Vic ranks somewhere in the top 3 best shows I have ever seen. It might have had something to do with being in the fourth row, but more likely it had something to do with his awesomeness.
I barely recognized Chicago. And I’m still not over $2.25 WITHOUT a TRANSFER for the CTA. What I did recognize was that feeling I get whenever I’m in a city: pure love. I love walking from neighborhood to neighborhood. I love the architecture. I love how there is always something going on somewhere. I love the variety of people. What I didn’t love was how gentrified everything felt. Wicker Park was, uh, slightly different than I remember. Marc Jacobs? BCBG? Steve Madden?!? Thankfully there are still places like Myopic Books and Reckless Records nestled amongst the Starbucks and the soon-to-open Jimmy Johns. Next time I would like to see in the daylight what happened to my old stomping grounds around Belmont and Sheffield.
And by “next time” I hope it to be sooner rather than later.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
i can tell it's day 6 of 7 in a row
Things I wish I was doing:
drinking a Magic Hat IPA
reading the ya book I randomly picked up that’s about a robot girl
watching The Wire
going for a hike in the dunes
Things I’m doing:
dealing with mouthbreathers
Things I will be doing once I no longer have to deal with mouthbreathers:
drinking a Magic Hat IPA
drinking a Magic Hat IPA
reading the ya book I randomly picked up that’s about a robot girl
watching The Wire
going for a hike in the dunes
Things I’m doing:
dealing with mouthbreathers
Things I will be doing once I no longer have to deal with mouthbreathers:
drinking a Magic Hat IPA
Saturday, March 7, 2009
things i learned in oaxaca
1. Germans and Argentineans can be snotty. And cheap.
2. Mexican otc cold medications are far superior to American otc cold medications.
3. If it only costs 10 pesos to go 30 miles it’s probably going to be a fairly filthy experience.
4. Hammocks are the bomb.
5. Octopus should actually be tender when cooked properly.
6. I thought I knew mole. I did not. Eating good mole can be a religious experience.
7. Good cab drivers are worth their weight in gold especially ones who encourage you to drink beer in their back seat.
8. Time means nothing in Mexico.
9. Never overlook market food. It will probably blow your mind.
10. Corn ice cream is amazing.
11. Learning to say “cuanto” isn’t really very helpful if you can’t understand how much the item will be.
12. The world is small when viewed from a beach at night under the milky way with a stranger who yearly visits to your very small hometown in Vermont.
Pictures.
2. Mexican otc cold medications are far superior to American otc cold medications.
3. If it only costs 10 pesos to go 30 miles it’s probably going to be a fairly filthy experience.
4. Hammocks are the bomb.
5. Octopus should actually be tender when cooked properly.
6. I thought I knew mole. I did not. Eating good mole can be a religious experience.
7. Good cab drivers are worth their weight in gold especially ones who encourage you to drink beer in their back seat.
8. Time means nothing in Mexico.
9. Never overlook market food. It will probably blow your mind.
10. Corn ice cream is amazing.
11. Learning to say “cuanto” isn’t really very helpful if you can’t understand how much the item will be.
12. The world is small when viewed from a beach at night under the milky way with a stranger who yearly visits to your very small hometown in Vermont.
Pictures.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
sideways snow day
Blessed sleep.
Thank you, tryptophan! Hallelujah, Tylenol PM!
It was like I was hit by a truck, but it was a truck full of down pillows and butterflies. It was a glorious truck. I’m still a little overcast. But my head is not longer swirling with clouds.
The new Beirut album is eclectic. Disc one is all Mexican-big-brass-folksy-goodness and disc two is all gay-boy-dance-clubby. Guess which one I prefer?
Phil’s in Saugatuck have the.best.wings.I.have.ever.had.
Period.
I keep forgetting I’m going to Mexico.
This weekend: hang out with bff, last minute Mexico shopping/banking/packing, and most importantly: introduce baby Neal to Founders. Woo. Hoo.
Thank you, tryptophan! Hallelujah, Tylenol PM!
It was like I was hit by a truck, but it was a truck full of down pillows and butterflies. It was a glorious truck. I’m still a little overcast. But my head is not longer swirling with clouds.
The new Beirut album is eclectic. Disc one is all Mexican-big-brass-folksy-goodness and disc two is all gay-boy-dance-clubby. Guess which one I prefer?
Phil’s in Saugatuck have the.best.wings.I.have.ever.had.
Period.
I keep forgetting I’m going to Mexico.
This weekend: hang out with bff, last minute Mexico shopping/banking/packing, and most importantly: introduce baby Neal to Founders. Woo. Hoo.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
steady as she goes
I’ve got that holding-on-to-the-end-of-a-whip-feeling.
This leads to sleepless nights.
Like last night.
2:30am found me awake and writing nonsense.
3:30am found me pondering trickle down economics and how bad things would have to get in the US to make moving to China sound like a better life.
3:45am found me reading David Foster Wallace short stories.
7:10am found me wondering how I was going to get through this workday without tears.
Beirut’s new album “March of the Zapotec” comes out today. It was inspired by Zach Condon’s recent trip to Oaxaca. I must own this.
Homemade macaroni and cheese is amazing: mascarpone, seriously sharp cabot, a little cream, a little butter, and some sage. You will not be sorry.
And I dare you to find this anything less than awesome.
This leads to sleepless nights.
Like last night.
2:30am found me awake and writing nonsense.
3:30am found me pondering trickle down economics and how bad things would have to get in the US to make moving to China sound like a better life.
3:45am found me reading David Foster Wallace short stories.
7:10am found me wondering how I was going to get through this workday without tears.
Beirut’s new album “March of the Zapotec” comes out today. It was inspired by Zach Condon’s recent trip to Oaxaca. I must own this.
Homemade macaroni and cheese is amazing: mascarpone, seriously sharp cabot, a little cream, a little butter, and some sage. You will not be sorry.
And I dare you to find this anything less than awesome.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
now...what to do with the giblets...
I am not having an affair with Wyclef.
I just want to make that clear.
I have been making domesticity my bitch these days, however.
My bread was amazing, my chicken was perfectly cooked thanks to my lack of squeamishness when it came to stuffing whole herbs between his skin and meat, my salad was proportioned, and my roasted vegetables were perfect.
Plus I made dark chocolate espresso brownies with ganache topped with raspberries (felt guilty about that one, but dang they good) and vanilla bean Haagen Das.
I’m a catch.
Tonight: make stock with the carcass. knit. drink a martini. make something yummy with leftover marscarpone cheese. listen to los campesinos!. start reading livability.
I just want to make that clear.
I have been making domesticity my bitch these days, however.
My bread was amazing, my chicken was perfectly cooked thanks to my lack of squeamishness when it came to stuffing whole herbs between his skin and meat, my salad was proportioned, and my roasted vegetables were perfect.
Plus I made dark chocolate espresso brownies with ganache topped with raspberries (felt guilty about that one, but dang they good) and vanilla bean Haagen Das.
I’m a catch.
Tonight: make stock with the carcass. knit. drink a martini. make something yummy with leftover marscarpone cheese. listen to los campesinos!. start reading livability.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
every tuesday night should be like this
This was good
My first cottage burger: from the rye bun to the green olives-ingenious deliciousness
Titus Andronicus: A big old mess of sound that hit the spot. Amazing. Truly.
Los Campesinos!: Pop music at it’s best
Founders: Their double trouble IPA is a masterpiece
I could attempt to wax poetic about the show, but I wouldn’t do it justice. There is little better than buying a $10 ticket, traveling a mere 25 miles away, having no expectations and yet having what might be one of the best concert experiences I’ve had in a while. We bought vinyl of two bands whom I might never have gone to see if I’d heard them first (Technically we bought vinyl of one band and Joel bought vinyl of the other but we have duel custody of said albums unless, of course, that Titus ends up being as awesome as I think it will be in which case I’ll have no choice but to order it from Full Circle) as neither of them sound like something I’d be into. The power of live music. And The Ladies Literary Club. And Ken Hefner being awesome.
After having lived together for over a year we’re finally having Peter’s parents over for supper in the barn Friday night.
The menu:
roasted organic chicken
roasted veggies (potatoes, carrots, and onion)
sautéed kale
homemade bread
salad
homemade brownies with ice cream
I say, yum-my.
My first cottage burger: from the rye bun to the green olives-ingenious deliciousness
Titus Andronicus: A big old mess of sound that hit the spot. Amazing. Truly.
Los Campesinos!: Pop music at it’s best
Founders: Their double trouble IPA is a masterpiece
I could attempt to wax poetic about the show, but I wouldn’t do it justice. There is little better than buying a $10 ticket, traveling a mere 25 miles away, having no expectations and yet having what might be one of the best concert experiences I’ve had in a while. We bought vinyl of two bands whom I might never have gone to see if I’d heard them first (Technically we bought vinyl of one band and Joel bought vinyl of the other but we have duel custody of said albums unless, of course, that Titus ends up being as awesome as I think it will be in which case I’ll have no choice but to order it from Full Circle) as neither of them sound like something I’d be into. The power of live music. And The Ladies Literary Club. And Ken Hefner being awesome.
After having lived together for over a year we’re finally having Peter’s parents over for supper in the barn Friday night.
The menu:
roasted organic chicken
roasted veggies (potatoes, carrots, and onion)
sautéed kale
homemade bread
salad
homemade brownies with ice cream
I say, yum-my.
Monday, February 9, 2009
because change is the only constant
Stupendous weekend.
I’m not sure what west Michigan did to deserve 6 straight days of sunshine. God might have something to do with it. Or global warming. One of the two.
Things I did this weekend:
ate a mini hashbrown omelet at the Windmill
went to the beach
listened to stellar music on vinyl most notably Sea Change. And Fleet Foxes. And Neutral Milk Hotel.
Sandbar-ed. Twice
Had breakfast at Remember When with the NYT
Things I’m doing this week:
sleeping
seeing los campesinos
drinking tea with the bff
roasting a chicken, baking bread, creating a delectable dessert
being cool
I’m not sure what west Michigan did to deserve 6 straight days of sunshine. God might have something to do with it. Or global warming. One of the two.
Things I did this weekend:
ate a mini hashbrown omelet at the Windmill
went to the beach
listened to stellar music on vinyl most notably Sea Change. And Fleet Foxes. And Neutral Milk Hotel.
Sandbar-ed. Twice
Had breakfast at Remember When with the NYT
Things I’m doing this week:
sleeping
seeing los campesinos
drinking tea with the bff
roasting a chicken, baking bread, creating a delectable dessert
being cool
Friday, February 6, 2009
what's the difference between jam and marmalade?
it’s awesomely filthy
things I never thought would happen but did so maybe the universe provides after all:
meet will refvem
be happy in february
things I never thought would happen but did so maybe the universe provides after all:
meet will refvem
be happy in february
Monday, February 2, 2009
"and the winners all go home with a big piece of jewelry"
What not to do when making Mexican Pork Chili:
Sear a big piece of pork shoulder on a stove without a vent
Attempt to flip a big piece of pork shoulder by yourself
Peek at a big piece of pork shoulder while it’s roasting
What to do when making Mexican Pork Chili:
Drink pineapple mojitos
Watch Wall-E
Be cool
What to do when eating Mexican Pork Chili:
Drink good beer (the IPA in the spring Magic Hat sampler is darn good)
“Watch” the Superbowl with geeks who talk about Star Trek
Watch the Superbowl with a sports fan who bet you the Steelers would win by 24 points
Lessons learned from Superbowl Sunday 2009:
Make Mexican Pork Chili
A grease burn on one’s neck can always be covered by a sweet tat
There is no end to hilarious homoerotic overtones in football
Sear a big piece of pork shoulder on a stove without a vent
Attempt to flip a big piece of pork shoulder by yourself
Peek at a big piece of pork shoulder while it’s roasting
What to do when making Mexican Pork Chili:
Drink pineapple mojitos
Watch Wall-E
Be cool
What to do when eating Mexican Pork Chili:
Drink good beer (the IPA in the spring Magic Hat sampler is darn good)
“Watch” the Superbowl with geeks who talk about Star Trek
Watch the Superbowl with a sports fan who bet you the Steelers would win by 24 points
Lessons learned from Superbowl Sunday 2009:
Make Mexican Pork Chili
A grease burn on one’s neck can always be covered by a sweet tat
There is no end to hilarious homoerotic overtones in football
Friday, January 30, 2009
from sun to snow in six seconds
things I dig:
friends who lend me an acoustic guitar so I don’t drop $150 on a new one
my guitar
butchers
Friday afternoons off desk
sleep
my dad whose birthday is today: Happy Birthday Dad!!!
never having to rock alone
things I hope I dig:
playing the guitar
pork shoulder
Revolutionary Road
things that just ain’t cool:
missing the Tweedy show
lake effect snow
friends who lend me an acoustic guitar so I don’t drop $150 on a new one
my guitar
butchers
Friday afternoons off desk
sleep
my dad whose birthday is today: Happy Birthday Dad!!!
never having to rock alone
things I hope I dig:
playing the guitar
pork shoulder
Revolutionary Road
things that just ain’t cool:
missing the Tweedy show
lake effect snow
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
listarama
Likes
Sandbar Chicago dogs
tequila shots with my BFF
Mexican rice
Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings on vinyl
making dutch babies
throwing out the rule book
Mindfulness
plans
yeast
Vitamin D
February
Friends who send you live bonnie prince billy cds
Anxiously anticipating
Friday night with Trav
Saturday afternoon with the BFF
The Superfood Anti-Superbowl party
Dislikes
only having 24 hours in a day
angry patrons
Sandbar Chicago dogs
tequila shots with my BFF
Mexican rice
Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings on vinyl
making dutch babies
throwing out the rule book
Mindfulness
plans
yeast
Vitamin D
February
Friends who send you live bonnie prince billy cds
Anxiously anticipating
Friday night with Trav
Saturday afternoon with the BFF
The Superfood Anti-Superbowl party
Dislikes
only having 24 hours in a day
angry patrons
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
obamamania
So we’re here.
Big day. Biiig, biiiig, day.
I’m at work wishing I’d taken the day off mostly because I’ll be watching the speech live in the auditorium during my lunch break with fellow staff members and weeping will happen. I actually just got a little choked up writing that sentence.
What a country. What a country.
In non-Obama related news, I done made bread this weekend. And this t’weren’t no bread machine bread. My first attempt at proofing yeast was unsuccessful so I busted out the candy thermometer and it was smooth sailing from there. It was an ordinary old white bread (though my BFF claims it was awfully close to the salt bread from the now defunct Journeyman-I disagreed, but was secretly proud of the compliment) and I’m now looking to tackle some whole grain goodness. And pizza dough. May I never purchase another frozen pizza (though the Archer Farms spinach and goat cheese pizza is yummy as are Kashi pizzas) AGAIN.
In crafty news, I’ve been commissioned to make some leg warmers for a coworker. I’ve cut out squares to start practicing embroidery stitches in preparation for Baby Neal’s quilt. I’m going to get over my fear of double pointed needles and teach myself how to knit socks. And a trip to Fields is in order as I need to whip up some sundresses for my Oaxaca trip.
Speaking of, I go to Oaxaca in five weeks! I’m starting to maybe get a little nervous about the whole scorpions in my shoes thing. But the mezcal and the moles and the chocolate and pottery and the turtles and the beaches and the textiles and the ruins and the fresh seafood sound so fabulous I’ll just deal with the scorpions. Plus it’ll be my first time in the Pacific Ocean. And my first time snorkeling. And my first time in Mexico.
I have the single best traveling companion in Molly as she not only speaks Spanish fluently; she also is a savvy traveler. There will be pictures. Lots and lots of pictures.
Tonight: Shadetree’s bday party/Inauguration celebration.
Tomorrow night: LOST
Thursday night: drinks with the BFF
Friday night: nada
Saturday night: Melissa, Reuben, and Neal
Sunday: First day off together with Peter since VT
Big day. Biiig, biiiig, day.
I’m at work wishing I’d taken the day off mostly because I’ll be watching the speech live in the auditorium during my lunch break with fellow staff members and weeping will happen. I actually just got a little choked up writing that sentence.
What a country. What a country.
In non-Obama related news, I done made bread this weekend. And this t’weren’t no bread machine bread. My first attempt at proofing yeast was unsuccessful so I busted out the candy thermometer and it was smooth sailing from there. It was an ordinary old white bread (though my BFF claims it was awfully close to the salt bread from the now defunct Journeyman-I disagreed, but was secretly proud of the compliment) and I’m now looking to tackle some whole grain goodness. And pizza dough. May I never purchase another frozen pizza (though the Archer Farms spinach and goat cheese pizza is yummy as are Kashi pizzas) AGAIN.
In crafty news, I’ve been commissioned to make some leg warmers for a coworker. I’ve cut out squares to start practicing embroidery stitches in preparation for Baby Neal’s quilt. I’m going to get over my fear of double pointed needles and teach myself how to knit socks. And a trip to Fields is in order as I need to whip up some sundresses for my Oaxaca trip.
Speaking of, I go to Oaxaca in five weeks! I’m starting to maybe get a little nervous about the whole scorpions in my shoes thing. But the mezcal and the moles and the chocolate and pottery and the turtles and the beaches and the textiles and the ruins and the fresh seafood sound so fabulous I’ll just deal with the scorpions. Plus it’ll be my first time in the Pacific Ocean. And my first time snorkeling. And my first time in Mexico.
I have the single best traveling companion in Molly as she not only speaks Spanish fluently; she also is a savvy traveler. There will be pictures. Lots and lots of pictures.
Tonight: Shadetree’s bday party/Inauguration celebration.
Tomorrow night: LOST
Thursday night: drinks with the BFF
Friday night: nada
Saturday night: Melissa, Reuben, and Neal
Sunday: First day off together with Peter since VT
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
i like lists
Things I have done this week:
Cook real food: organic, grass fed hamburgers, asian slaw, and yukon gold and sweet potato fries
Read: thiiiis close to being done with Sense and Sensibility. Next up is some domestic fiction.
Get lots of sleep: 10+ hours last night
See my BFF: Monday night wine, triple cream, and chocolate
Work a lot: yeeeeeah
Be cool: obviously
Things I have done this week that weren’t on the agenda:
Open a new checking/savings account at Bank of America: saved a friend who needed to open some new accounts plus I’m finally entering the 21st century and getting a debit card and totally free checking. Go me
Things I will still do this week:
Run: hopefully Saturday when the air temperature reaches a balmy 20 degrees
Knit: tonight whilst showing a movie at work
Bake bread: Saturday. No really. I’m in charge of home made bread for a dinner party Saturday night
Be cool: obviously
Things I won’t do this week:
Embroider: Just can’t figure out how to do what I want to do yet
Things I’m looking forward to doing in the future:
Going to Oaxaca
Maybe hopefully seeing Will Oldham in Chicago
Seeing Revolutionary Road
Neal’s baptism
Obama’s inauguration
Being cool
Cook real food: organic, grass fed hamburgers, asian slaw, and yukon gold and sweet potato fries
Read: thiiiis close to being done with Sense and Sensibility. Next up is some domestic fiction.
Get lots of sleep: 10+ hours last night
See my BFF: Monday night wine, triple cream, and chocolate
Work a lot: yeeeeeah
Be cool: obviously
Things I have done this week that weren’t on the agenda:
Open a new checking/savings account at Bank of America: saved a friend who needed to open some new accounts plus I’m finally entering the 21st century and getting a debit card and totally free checking. Go me
Things I will still do this week:
Run: hopefully Saturday when the air temperature reaches a balmy 20 degrees
Knit: tonight whilst showing a movie at work
Bake bread: Saturday. No really. I’m in charge of home made bread for a dinner party Saturday night
Be cool: obviously
Things I won’t do this week:
Embroider: Just can’t figure out how to do what I want to do yet
Things I’m looking forward to doing in the future:
Going to Oaxaca
Maybe hopefully seeing Will Oldham in Chicago
Seeing Revolutionary Road
Neal’s baptism
Obama’s inauguration
Being cool
Sunday, January 11, 2009
things to do this week
Run
Cook real food
Read
Embroider
Knit
Get lots of sleep
See my BFF
Work a lot
Bake bread
Be cool
Cook real food
Read
Embroider
Knit
Get lots of sleep
See my BFF
Work a lot
Bake bread
Be cool
Saturday, January 3, 2009
i just used my last puff's with vicks. sob.
Grace killed a mouse.
The kitchen has been rearranged.
Work is insane.
Cobwebs and dust no longer cover the desk.
We fell asleep before midnight watching LOST season 4 on New Years Eve.
My closet is gloriously organized.
I successfully recovered from the stomach flu.
I now have a wicked head cold.
Various artsy things are hanging on the big white wall at the top of the stairs.
Full time hours are in my future. Indefinitely.
I have abandoned the Karamazovs.
Henry James is a delight.
Substituting music for NPR in the morning was an excellent choice.
I miss running.
Herb Alpert is the bomb.
The kitchen has been rearranged.
Work is insane.
Cobwebs and dust no longer cover the desk.
We fell asleep before midnight watching LOST season 4 on New Years Eve.
My closet is gloriously organized.
I successfully recovered from the stomach flu.
I now have a wicked head cold.
Various artsy things are hanging on the big white wall at the top of the stairs.
Full time hours are in my future. Indefinitely.
I have abandoned the Karamazovs.
Henry James is a delight.
Substituting music for NPR in the morning was an excellent choice.
I miss running.
Herb Alpert is the bomb.
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