Asterisk

I want the New England Patriots to have an asterisk after their "perfect season" they attained this year. They play great football, I will never dispute that, but their tactics were inappropriate during Spygate (make sure to read how Bill Belichick isn't just cheating on the field). I may think that Bill Belichick is a cocky S.O.B. and a SLOB as well, but that isn't why I hate them. I don't hate them because they are the antithesis of the Indianapolis Colts. I just don't like them because, other than my friends Stephany and Adam (who are transplants) and my friend Eric, I don't like people from New England. Oh, and April, and Carly, and Daniel, and Eric Osborne...it's not your fault you live there and you aren't total jerks. So I don't like people from the Northeast, what do you want from me? On another ramble here, do you know why we all saw that Patriots game on Saturday night? Because John Kerry was so busy whining and crying because people from the Northeast couldn't see the Patriots game. Oh the horrors!! Glad I paid the money for NFL network when the game was free to everyone...

Ok, enough whining about that. Mircea and I had a nice Christmas. I went home to see my parents for the weekend before, and we went to a Wake Forest game and had a really good time. Then I came home and Mircea and I went to one of his family friends' house and enjoyed good food and great company. We're going back there for New Year's Eve, so that should be nice too. I'm running out of ideas of things to bring and appetizers to make though. Any thoughts?

I'll write more about this later, but my gift from Mircea was Guitar Hero III for the Wii. Oh how I love thee.

Recipe Thursday

Chicken Chili Recipe

Ingredients

1 package of boneless skinless chicken breast (cooked in frying pan)
3 cans light kidney beans (drained)
1 can tomato sauce
1/2 block Velveeta cheese (comes in a cardboard box)
2 Tbls Parsley
2 Tbls Garlic powder
2 Tbls Chili powder
1 1/2 Tbls Crushed red pepper
1 bag Tostitos scoops

Directions

Add drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, cheese and seasonings into crock pot. Add diced cooked chicken breast. Heat for one hour on high.

Depending on how you like your chili to taste add additional seasonings as desired.

Serve warm with tostitos scoops.

**Someone made this at work and it was pretty good. They made it as a dip, and I think that is how it is better served than an actual "chili". We're having a chili-cookoff at my office in January so I'm working on trying out some stellar recipes.

Goodbye Sweet Baby

You’ve only been gone from us for a few hours, but your Daddy and I miss you very much. I smelled your smell on the comforter last night and couldn’t stop crying, and that got Daddy crying too. We miss your little tuxedoed body, always overdressed for every occasion: except last night. You were ready to go, you had suffered long enough, and Daddy and I had no choice but to help you go peacefully into the night. The nice people at the Vet said we had done all that we could and that you had lived a long, happy life of 18. Although you weren’t in our lives at the time, Daddy and I were only 7 and 9 at the time of your birth. You outlived any childhood pet I ever had, and know that they will befriend you up in Heaven. Pete (your first daddy) will take care of you too, and you can watch out for him and let him know that we miss him too.

I keep thinking of all the funny things you’ve done over this past year that you’ve been in my life. The way you make this funny little Yoshi sound when you’re eating. The way you refuse to have all four paws on the ground at the same time. The first time you had the yummy food I bought for Fern and Lily, and you just sort of purred and growled with pleasure as you wolfed it up.

We miss you little sweetie. It wasn’t the same this morning without having you at our heels and giving you a kiss on the forehead before we left for work. We’ll bury you today in the front flower bed. In the spring there will be hundreds of tulips that will come up around you and remind us of your graceful beauty.

I know you are “just a cat”, but you were our baby and we will always love you and think of you with your little angel’s wings.

My Awesome Cookie Recipe

Chocolate Mint Marvels

Ingredients

3/4C butter
1 1/2 C brown sugar
2 C chocolate chips
2 eggs
2 1/2 C flour
1 1/4 t baking soda
3 or 4 packages Andes Mints (I used 1 package and broke the mints in half)

Directions

Melt butter and brown sugar in saucepan over low heat. Add chocolate chips and stir to melt; put mixture into a bowl and let cool. Add eggs, and then mix in flour and baking soda. Chill dough for 1 hour. Roll into balls and place on baking sheet. Bake for 9 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove cookies from oven and place an andes mint on each one. As the candy melts spread it across the top of the cookie with a butter knife. Makes 3 dozen.

**I made these cookies last year too, but this year I had a heck of a time with the batter sticking to my hands. In the end, I actually had to put the dough in the freezer to work with it a little better, so it is very important that you have it cooled before you start molding the balls.

I've Been Swamped

• Last Thursday was the funeral for my co-workers baby who died the week prior. I don't know which was worse; seeing the tiny casket or hearing the poem about how the little boy was watching his parents from heaven. It was heart-wrenching.
• I'm traveling to North Carolina this weekend to see my Dad and stepmother for an early Christmas. Although I'm not looking forward to the drive, I am looking forward to spending some time with them and enjoying the holiday.
• Mircea bought a fireplace for his house and I helped him install it. I'll post pictures soon, it is really nice and I'm sure that one of the kitties is going to burn themself in some capacity.
• I bought Yukon a Santa suit. He hates it and it is really tight, but I'll try to get a picture of him in it.
• Just read this article on CNN. Has anyone at the jail seen The Shawshank Redemption?
• Going home to make some cookies for work. Have a yummy recipe that I am bringing into work and I figure I'll bring some cups and a gallon of milk for all to enjoy. And I'll enjoy a few myself. Yummy!

What a Terrible Morning

This morning I came to work to find that the young receptionist at our office lost her newborn baby. Her and her husband had the baby two weeks ago, and he'd been in the hospital ever since. He had an underdevloped lung, a hole in his heart, and they also found that he had clubbed feet (totally fixable). What's amazing to me is that no one discovered this is the ultrasounds that she had before the baby was born.

I can't imagine what her and her husband are going through. They are both 22, high school sweethearts, and this was their first child, a son, named after her husband and his father. I know that these next few days and weeks will be hard for her, but sadly, I also know that she will always remember this for the rest of her life and that problems that I have are NOTHING compared to what her and her family are going through.

Oy Vey

I have been such a bad blogger lately. I've been pretty busy at work and school (finals this week), and I haven't been focusing on fun as of late. I did post on my other blog about the fitness changes and goals I have for the next several months. I really need to get back to the "old Kate" because this Kate of girth and wideness is the Kate that I enjoy or respect.

I'm going to participate in a walk this weekend, so that will give me a little motivation. I'm meeting a friend of mine (Nikki) that I met last year at another race. We hit it off really well and may start exercising together on the weekends (we live about 45 minutes away from each other but there are good outdoor places in between.)

Lindsay spent the night on Friday, and we had a great time watching the Girls Next Door and playing the Wii. We also had fun making fun of Mircea, who came home after a night of drinking with a friend and acted like a nut job. A good time was had by all and I can't wait to see Lindsay again-I'm going to take advantage of the 3 years that she's in DC!

Other than that, things are going well. Tomorrow is the anniversary of my first date with Mircea. I can't believe it's already been a year since I denied him that first kiss on our date. Dream on boy!!! We're not going out tomorrow because I have my precious bowling league, but we're going to go out on Friday, for dinner, and probably go home and play Wii or watch a movie.

An update on our little Stinky/Squeaky. Her tumor is getting bigger and bigger, and she is really pretty unhappy. She doesn't appear to be in pain, but she is definitely not enjoying life as much as she used to. We're just giving her lots of hugs and cuddles, but we both agree that her time is getting pretty short.

The other cats are all happy and healthy. Yukie is enjoying his time outside. He has a little gray "friend" out there, that I have seen him fight with, but whom I've also seen him eating with, so Lord knows their relationship. He's taken to spraying in the house, though, so he may be spending a lot of time outside. Fernie and Lily are cute as ever. Both of those little furbabies have been playing under the Christmas tree and cuddling up on our new warm blankets. Silly girls!!

Ok, that's way more than I've written in a long time, but I'll have a recipe tomorrow and more to post soon.

Recipe Thursday

Parmesan Chicken and Rice

This was one of the best recipes that I've ever made. It was so delicious and had a great flavor from the mushrooms. The cheese also made it really good as well.

Ingredients
1 TBSP olive oil
1/2 Cup chopped onion
1 tsp bottled mince garlic
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 8-ounce package preslided mushrooms
3/4 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite sized pieces
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 cup uncooked instant rice
1 cup less-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions
1. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, and mushrooms; saute 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Add chicken; saute 4 minutes or until the chicken is lightly browned. Add wine, salt, and pepper; cook 3 minutes or until liquid almost evaporates.
2. Stir in rice and broth. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmmer 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Stir in cheese and parsley.

Notes
Yields 4 servings, about 1 cup each. I added double rice and double cheese to make it super yummy!

It Sure Doesn't Look Like November Out There

Last weekend, Mircea and I invited his mom out for her first trip on the boat. We had a good time, despite Rodica saying as soon as she got on the boat "Um, I forgot that I get seasick", but she didn't get sick and had a great time. I love this picture of the two of them because they are definitely having a lot of fun. And boy was it windy!!!

I haven't been taking a lot of photos lately. I keep promising myself that next summer I'm taking a photography class at the local college. It will be my graduation gift to myself (more school?) because I've always wanted to do it.

Not much going on here. Haven't done much of anything the last few days except watch a ton of tv. It has been great to be a lazy bones around the house, and the cats are enjoying the extra snuggle time with their parents. I'll write more later...I want to talk about all the tv we've been watching, but if I post about it now, well then that's too much in one post!

Recipe Thursday

French Onion Soup

From the Kitchen of Robyn Warner.
This is so tasty we have it once a week at our house. Better than our neighborhood restaurant.

Ingredients
6 onions
1 clove garlic
3 Tbsp Butter (I omit this to save calories/fat)
4 cans beef broth
1 1/2 tsp worchestshire sauce
1 pkg Lipton Onion Soup Mix
1/8 tsp black pepper
Baguette style bread
1/2 cup swiss cheese

Directions
1. In large skillet, cook onions, garlic and butter 30-40 minutes until tender. (Covered)
2. Add beef broth, worchestshire, pepper, and onion soup. Cook 1 1/2 hours on med/low heat or slow cooker for 5 hours low or 2 1/2 hours high.
3. Serve topped w/baguette and cheese.

Notes
Sometimes I used croutons instead of bread and it actually tastes pretty good. I also often use Sargento shredded parmesan cheese and it melts so nicely in the soup.

Tuesday Morning & I'm a Happy Gal

I cannot get the John Mayer song "Dreaming with a Broken Heart" out of my head, and it just makes me so sad. I don't have anything to be particularly sad about right now, but this song just gets me every time. I blame Patty, since she talked me into loving this cd...

Nothing too exciting going on here right now. Mircea and I are sort of just "existing", but we aren't fighting at all, so that's something. Grad school isn't too busy either, which is nice, because next semester will be the most painful, but it will be over in May and I will have my MBA. Woo hoo!!!

I'm working from home until Friday. I'm taking a class that involves talking on the phone all day, so I figured I could just do that from home, and stay in my pjs and curl up with those cute kitties. Speaking of kitties, little Stinky/Squeaky is at the vet right now with Mircea as she has something on her little chin. It seems like it could be a growth or something, but we'll find out in a few hours. Poor little sweetie. I gave her a little kiss this morning and told her that she'd made it 18 years, let's strive for another 18. We'll see about that!

Wishing you all well. I'm starting to get in the holiday spirit, which is hiliarious because I always hated the holidays. A great friend taught me how to love it though, and I'll be forever indebted to him because they're so much easier to get through when you aren't dreading them.

***Update***
Mircea got home from the vet and Squeaky does have a tumor in her little chin. The Dr. said that they could do a lot of things to remove it, but that she wasn't feeling any pain and if she started feeling pain we could go from there. I feel like a bad parent, but we decided not to have it removed unless she starts feeling pain...and even then they may not be able to alleviate her pain. So we'll see. Pray for our little tuxedo baby!***

Recipe Thursday

I made this for dinner last night and it was really tasty. I'll post a picture tomorrow-the battery on my camera died and is now charging so I can upload it. Enjoy-this was awesome!


Greek Style Shrimp Scampi & Linguine

Ingredients
1 pound linguine
Salt
1 pound medium to large shrimp, deveined and peeled, tails removed
Pepper
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
A couple pinches of red pepper flakes
1/2 lemon, zested and juiced
2 sprigs oregano, finely chopped
A handful of pitted kalamata olives, chopped (I used black olives b/c I live in podunk maryland where you can't find a kalamata to save your life)
1/2 cup white wine (eyeball it)
1/2 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped
1 cup feta cheese crumbles

Preparation
Place a large pot of water on the stove to boil. Salt water and cook pasta to al dente.
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
While the pasta water comes to a boil, heat oil in a deep skillet with garlic. When garlic is brown, remove and reserve. (I took it out and put it back in at the end) Add shrimp and cook 3-4 minutes. Add red pepper flakes, lemon zest, oregano, olives and wine and cook together a couple of minutes more. Remove from heat.
Add a ladle of starchy pasta cooking water to sauce and some lemon juice. Remove the sauce from the heat. Drain pasta and add to the skillet. Let pasta soak in juices for a minute, then toss with parsley and feta. Use tongs to pull pasta from skillet, giving it a turn to twist in as many ingredients as possible. Then, use the tongs to remove and arrange the shrimp and ingredients that may remain in the pan, distributing them evenly among the portions.

Thoughts...

Sometimes I wonder if things in my life are going to be okay. I wonder if I will be successful in my career. I wonder if I will be in a loving relationship with a family. I wonder all of these things, and I try to control them and align the stars so these things will happen. I am having a lot of trouble living “day to day” and it is greatly affecting my relationship with Mircea. He is so laid back and comfortable in his own skin, and I am constantly second guessing myself and his feelings for me (and my own self-worth). I just don’t know if it’s worth holding onto anymore. I would love to continue a relationship with him, but I’m also scared that if we are holding onto emotional wounds of the past several months, that there really isn’t a point. I know life isn’t all roses, but can one ever recover from emotional wounds that they have inflicted on each other? Can you get through these rough patches when people are stressed and pushing each other away? I just don’t know. I need to stop worrying and just live my life. Easier said then done.

Recipe MondayThursday

Ok everyone. Sorry I posted stupid song lyrics on Thursday, but I was busy (but not too busy for that) Here's recipe Thursday on Monday!!


Pumpkin Pecan Pie
This can be made up to a day ahead of time.

Ingredients
1 9 inch unbaked pie shell
1 15 oz can pumpkin
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
3/4 tsp cinnamon
3/4 tsp powdered ginger
1/8 tsp salt
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 eggs (well-beaten)
1/2 cup milk
Topping
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, salt, vanilla, eggs, and milk. Mix until well blended.
3. Pour into the unbaked pie shell. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix the topping ingredients until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping on the pie and bake an additional 25 minutes.

5. Cool and refrigerate at least a few hours for easist slicing.

Notes
Prep time: 5 minutes for pie, 10 minutes for the crust, baking time: 65 minutes, serves 8

Why Do I Like This Song?

T-PAIN (f/ Akon) LYRICS Bartender

[Intro - T-Pain]Yeah...Uh-Huh...Yeah...Yeah...

[Verse 1 - T-Pain]
Broke up with my girl last night so I went to the club (so I went to the club)Put on a fresh white suit and a Minicos sitting on dubs (sitting on dubs)
I'm just looking for somebody to talk to and show me some love (show me some love)
If you know what I mean... Uh-Huh...
Everybody jackin' me as soon as I stepped in the spot (I stepped in the spot)
200 bitches and man aint none of them hot (aint none of them hot)
'Cept for this pretty young thang that was workin' all the way at the top (all the way at the top)Shawty what is your name?

[Hook 1 - T-Pain]
Oooo she made us drinks, to drink
We drunk 'em, Got drunk
And then I think she thinks I'm cool
She gave me a wink, I winked back
And then I think that, we headed out something proper like...

[Chorus - T-Pain]
I like the bartender(Oooo If you're lookin' for me)
I'm at the bar with her(Uh-huh, Ok)
I like the bartender(Yeah if you're lookin' for me)
I'm at the bar with her(Oooooh Uh-huh, Ok)

[Verse 2 - T-Pain]
Got a brand new girl so I'm feeling all good inside (all good inside)
Feel like I put some new 24's on a brand new ride (on a brand new ride)
Triple shot of patron on the rocks with little bit a lime (with a little bit a lime)
I'm just keeping it real (Uh-huh)
Baby still working at the club so I'm getting in free (so I'm getting in free)
Wednesday night I'm on the list T-Pain plus 3 (T-Pain plus 3)
Everytime I hit the spot baby girl taking care of me (taking care of me)
How do you think I feel?

[Hook 2 - T-Pain]
Oooo she made us drinks, to drink
We drunk 'em, Got drunk
And now I know she thinks I'm cool
She gave me a wink, I winked back
And then I think that, we 'gon have fun at my spot tonight...

[Chorus - T-Pain]
I like the bartender(Oooo If you're lookin' for me)
I'm at the bar with her(Uh-huh, Ok)
I like the bartender(Yeah if you're lookin' for me)
I'm at the bar with her(Oooooh Uh-huh, Ok)

[Verse 3 - Akon]
Shorty I'm sure you heard that I really never come out (never come out)
Unless I'm in the M6 doing tricks freeway burnt out (freeway burnt out)
Got a passenger side that's empty wanting it to be your spot (be your spot)
But you on my billboard ? like the charts 'gon end up on top (end up on top)
Don't smoke don't drink that's why I don't be by the bar baby (baby)
Just lookin' at you from a distance looking like a god damn star baby (baby)
So my girl don't see me T-Pain can I get those keys to the car? (those keys to the car?)
'Bout to go and Bang Bang Boogie with my cutie and I'll see you tomar' (see you tomar')

[Hook 3 - T-Pain, Akon]
Oooo she made us drinks, to drink
We drunk 'em, Got drunk
And now I know she thinks I'm cool
She gave me a wink, I winked back (Uh-huh)
And then I think that, (Uh-huh) we 'gon have fun at my spot tonight... (Oh yes)

[Chorus - T-Pain]
I like the bartender(Oooo If you're lookin' for me)
I'm at the bar with her(Uh-huh, Ok)
I like the bartender(Yeah if you're lookin' for me)
I'm at the bar with her(Oooooh Uh-huh, Ok)

Go Giants! (But Not Too Much)

Once again I have almost won the football pool at Mircea's work. Had I not made a last minute change, I would have won, but I had some faith in the damn Chicago Bears. (I was wrong, thanks Patty!) Now, I need to have the total score of tonight's game equal less than 30 points. This can happen, but it is scary. Please cross your finger's that my sweet Peyton's little brother can win...but back it off and just make a couple of scores and Atlanta needs to just take a knee for the whole game and not score anything. That sounds reasonable.

Recipe Thursday

Chicken Gyros with Dill Sauce
This recipe is awesome. It's really easy to make and delicious. I often omit the onion, because I'm not a huge fan.

Ingredients
1 cup plain yogurt
3 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 pound boneless chicken breast (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
1 tsp dried oregano
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 medium onions (thinly sliced)
4 pita rounds, heated
salt & pepper to taste

Directions
1. In a small bowl, blend together yogurt, 2 T dill, garlic and 1 T lemon juice. Season with pepper and salt. Set aside.

2. Heat 1 T oil in large skilled on medium/high heat. Add chicken with oregano, 1 T dill, salt and pepper. Saute until browned and cooked.


3. Transfer to a bowl. Add 1 T oil to skillet and saute onions until golden brown, about 10 minutes.

4. Return chicken to skillet. Add 1 T lemon juice. Stir about 2 minutes.

5. Top pita with chicken mixture. Spoon dill sauce over chicken and serve.

Notes
I omit the onions because I'm too lazy at the end of cooking the meal. I also make extra dill sauce because it is delightful and tangy.

Ye Olde Renaissance Faire

This weekend we (Mircea, Ben, Robyn, Malyna and myself) went to the Maryland Renaissance Faire. I hate the RennFest, let me just get that out there right off the bat. I think the outfits are really annoying, and it seems to be an opportunity to simply show a lot of freaky breasts and for other people to just dress like clowns. I have to say, some people might never have looked in a mirror, but they do at least have a little more self-esteem than I do. I am not sure I envy that, maybe I have a little more sense.

It was about 90 degrees yesterday (it felt like 400) and it was so dry that we had a thin layer of black dirt all over us. Despite the heat and my rip-roaring cold that I have right now, I had a pretty good time. We saw some really cool shows. My favorite was Hilby, the Skinny German Juggle Boy, who put on a great show that was very funny and witty.

We also saw the show Hack and Slash, which was pretty good too. Normally I find stuff like this a little painful, but this was pretty good. I actually had some trouble with my gag reflexes during the sword swallower (that's Johnny Fox), but all in all the shows were funny.

I had some other stuff to say about the faire, but can't seem to think of them right now. The only one I can think of is that a lot of those people looked to not have a lot of money and Robyn and I felt a little bad thinking about how they were spending their money on something like the Renn Fest...but everyone enjoys some time out...but still, it was a little weird.

Recipe Thursday

This is a staple at our house and I made it for dinner last night. It was so so so yummy. Definitely recommend serving with bread-it tastes so great dipped in the soup!

Zuppa Tuscana

A knock off of the wonderful Olive Garden staple. The crushed red pepper really adds a great kick.

Ingredients
1 16 ounce package spicy italian sausage (ground or removed from casing)
6 slices bacon
1 medium onion (chopped)
2-3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
1 quart water
2 Tbsp chicken boullion
2 medium potatoes (1/4 inch slices)
2 cups kale (shredded)
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
1/2 cup whipping cream

Directions
1. Cook sausage over medium-high heat. Drain fat.

2. In same pot, fry bacon until crisp, drain on paper towels. Crumble and set aside.

3. Drain all but 1 t bacon fat from pot. Add onions and cook on medium heat until softened. Add garlic and cook for one minute.

4. Add water, chicken broth and potatoes. Bring a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

5. Return the cooked sausage and crumbled back to the pot. Add kale and red pepper; simmer for 4 minutes.

6. Stir in cream and cook until heated through, without boiling. Serve hot.

Notes
Don't use turkey bacon no matter how much you want to cut out the fat. It tastes terrible in this. Truly truly terrible.

Saving the Planet, but Endangering the Blind

I was driving to work in my lovely hybrid car (currently averaging 48.3 mpg) and I heard a news clip that blind people were having trouble detecting hybrid cars on the road. This news article expands a little more on it, but the takeaway is this:

A test was done at the National Federation of the Blind's Headquarters with a Toyota Prius and a Honda Hybrid. Testers said the Honda was quiet but they could not hear the Toyota at all.

"I never heard the car until it actually touched me, I was shocked," said Pare.




When I drive I definitely scare some people (ha ha). I had a cyclist that I was following at a safe distance, and he looked back at me and almost fell of his bike. He didn't know I was there. A woman with two kids walked out in front of me when I was in the Food Lion parking lot. I had my window down and I heard her say to the kids, "Mommy didn't even hear the car." A couple of years ago when I rented a Prius for the weekend, we were driving around the Ikea parking garage and no one would get out of our way and they kept walking in front of us. They simply couldn't hear us. I actually find it a little annoying and definitely see the danger in it...though I love that it is so quiet. Just thought this was interesting.

Recipe Thursday

Yeah, I'm technically posting this early but I graduate from the Intern program Thursday morning and won't be in the office. I pretended it was Thursday though.

Cauliflower Cheese Soup

This soup is awesome! It is such a perfect football meal and it is so comforting and wonderful.

Ingredients
1 head cauliflower (chopped)
1 cup celery (diced)
1 cup onion (diced)
6 1/2 cups water, divided
8 ounce pkg cream cheese
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 lbs grated cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
1 tsp parsley
salt & pepper

Directions
1. In a large saucepan, simmer vegetables in 6 cups water until tender; drain. Add cream cheese.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in remaining water, then add to saucepan.
3. Blend in cheddar cheese. Add milk, parsley, salt and pepper.
4. Heat until ready to serve.


Notes

While soup is cooking I stir it fairly regularly to keep the cheese from just clumping.

Recipe Thursdays

I was thinking that Thursday would be a good day to share recipes, because we can try them out on the weekends (when most of us have a little more time to cook). I also want to share this cool site I found. WeGottaEat is a cool website that you can type your recipes into and it organizes them pretty nice. Just a suggestion. I joined it (it was free.)

I hope that you will have a chance to post recipes that are tried and true, and I hope that you enjoy the recipes that I post. My first couple recipes will be my most favorite of the past few months because I want to start on a high note!

Happy cooking!! See you Thursday with a recipe.

Cooking with Good Tools

I just have to take a moment to discuss my new cookware. I bought it several weeks ago, and have only been able to use it twice (as our kitchen is being remodeled, so I’ve only cooked at the cottage with them), but they really are wonderful. After much debate, a cost-benefit analysis, and asking everyone I knew, I decided to purchase the Calphalon One, Hard-anodized cook set. It is non-stick, you can use any utensil in it that you want, but it is not dishwasher safe…but it’s so big I’m not sure it would fit into the dishwasher. I decided that I needed to have the right tools for all the cooking that I want to do and I saw a good deal and had to take it. I can’t wait for the kitchen to be done so I can make some more delicious meals.

I’m wondering if anyone is interested in exchanging some recipes with me. I’d like to try new things and pull together favorites of my friends. I’m even considering making a cookbook based on all the recipes I’ve collected (printed out with Lulu or something), but I’m not sure how feasible that would be. I think it might make a nice gift. Who knows?

I realize this was a strange post. I really don’t have a lot to write right now. I almost need to take a hiatus, but I don’t want to lose all three of my readers! Any thoughts on what I should post about?

Bowling: Its a Sport, Right?

I joined a bowling league with my friends Ben and Robyn (and our other team mate Kelly, who I'm just getting to know). The four of us are known as the Garage Guzzlers, which is actually Ben and Robyn's beer pong team name (and I'm an honorary member of the team since I guzzle beer in Ben's garage too). We play every Thursday and we are currently in 5th place. We are terrible, mostly because I am horrendous at bowling. My handicap is 122. That's right! My average is 94, and I had such a rough time this last Thursday that I didn't make my average on any game. The guy bowling in the lane next to us bowled a perfect score and it was really awesome. He gets a satin jacket with his name on it, and I think everyone knows how I feel about satin jackets (love 'em).

Things are going well other than that. I'm in a business law class and I really enjoy that. So far the homework isn't too intense so it is ok. I'm getting back on the weightloss and fitness bandwagon and have been doing well all week. It's nice to be "back" a little and not just pigging out all the time for no reason.

I'm walking for the Luekemia and Lymphoma Society tonight. I raised $625 for the event, and our whole team beat their goal of $7k. It should be a great night!

I helped my friend Murthlyn move this morning. I'm so sad. We started at Enterprise together when I first moved here and we both left for Government jobs. She's going to go work for the Department of Homeland Security up in DC. I miss her already!

There Patty, are you happy?

We Have Fleas!

Does the fun ever start? We are a household of miserable itchies. I never knew fleas had such a taste for me...it's really quite amazing. Other than finding flea dirt behind my ears while I was buying Frontline, my favorite part of the day was giving all four cats a bath. Yukon howls so loud you think you're killing him, Stinky's claws are super sharp, Lily pooped in the tub while I was washing her, and I pretty much gave Fern her bath on my lap, as she wouldn't let go of me. It was just lovely. I've been washing all the bedclothes and spraying spray all over the house, which is giving me a terrible headache and making me think I'm poisoning the whole family. It's really been lovely. Here's hoping they go away in one treatment because I don't want to do the quadruple-bath again. That was painful. I'm glad to have Yukon back, but this is ridiculous. He had flea repellant on, but apparently that didn't work. I still feel bugs all over me, though I know they aren't there. Technically, I have had 4 flea baths today, plus my shins have had quite a Raid treatment, so I'm probably good for awhile. Wish us luck!

An Interesting Couple of Days

First of all, the reason I posted the picture of Yukon was two-fold. He ran away on Saturday night and we didn't find him until yesterday. We spent many days calling his name in the woods, leaving out food (only to find out that we have a raccoon friend) and spending many nights awake being sad that he was gone. I also made several trips to the animal shelter and put up fliers around town. Yesterday, we went on a door-to-door neighborhood canvas, and talked to people and got varying stories on the whereabouts of our baby boy. At one house, this mom and her little girl were talking to me and the little girl said "Well, I saw this kitty at the bus stop this morning. He was headbutting one of the kids in the leg". I asked her where this was and Mircea and I headed over there. There was Tons-of-Fun, just chillin' under a tree, looking as relaxed as could be. That quickly changed as we came towards him and he ran like the dickens off into the woods and eventually this nice little girl said "He just ran under that house". After lots of searching, we found an entrance that was "people sized" to this crawlspace, and Mircea went in to find himself faced with a total of three cats, one of whom was our baby boy. We scooped him up and took him home. He was so sweet in the car, giving kisses and headbutting. I gave him a bath and we just hung out the rest of the night. He was so cuddly! I love that little boy and I'm so glad that he is home. The girls were all ok with him being back, and Fernie was sniffing him like "what in the world is that stench?" Lily is the only one who complains. She has taken to sleeping under my desk...which is about 6 inches off the ground (the little footstool part). She's a weirdo. But all three girls slept with us on Monday night, so it was an interesting couple of days.

Mircea's birthday was Tuesday and we had a good time. His mom had a steamed crab feast at her house for him, and we had a blast. The food was super yummy and great. I'm sort of going backwards in time. On Friday of last week, I finally bought the Prius! I love the car. Love love love love love it! I didn't get gray like I wanted (Fernie colored), but it's white and it's beautiful and it has bluetooth in the car so I look like a crazy person talking to myself but I love it! Love it!!!!!!!!

I hope everyone has a great weekend. I had the worst week I've had in a long time, but I'm on cloud 9 now. Woo hoo!!

My Tubby Baby

Mircea and I are in love with little (not so little) Yukon. I have much more to write, but just wanted to post this picture because my happy little boy was on my mind.

This Was an Email, but I Thought it Would Be Fun to Share

Let's have a little fun. I would like this back please!!!
Directions! Now, Here Is What You Are Supposed To Do...And Please Do Not Spoil The Fun! Hit Forward, Delete My Answers And Type In Your Answers. Then Send This To A Whole Bunch Of People That You Know...And Send It Back To Me So I Can See Your Answers, The Theory Is That You Will Learn A Lot Of Little Known Facts About Those You Know. Remember To Send It Back Please!

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
I was named after a friend of my mother's, Kathleen Neff. I've never met her, but I do know that she went to Cedarville college in Ohio, so I've always really liked them.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
When I finished The Time Traveler's Wife. I sobbed like an infant.

3. Do you like your handwriting?
Not particularly. I can barely read it. I write much better when I write in pencil, though, so sometimes that helps to improve it. My cursive is abysmal.

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Mmmm, pastrami.

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
I have 4 cats that have stolen my heart, and my friends' children are very important to me as well. Someday I hope to have my own.

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Yeah, I'm pretty darned cool.

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM ALOT?
Define, "a lot". Of course, in fact, it's my main form of communication.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS
Yes, though I keep begging to have them removed. The doctor's say it won't help, but I'll feel better, and that's all that matters to me.

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
I would love to. I also want to sky dive and may get to do so next summer.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
It's a toss up. Cinnamon Toast Crunch or Honey Bunches of Oats with Almonds. Each hold a very special place in my heart.

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU take them off?
No, and I curse myself when I am untying them in the morning to put them back on.

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
I am strong in more ways that one.

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
I like banana ice cream with walnuts and chocolate. Edy's used to make a lowfat kind, but now my only option is Coldstone or Ben and Jerry's. Not like they're twisting my arm or anything.

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
Eyes and smile. (I'm a big fan of teeth)

15. RED OR PINK?
Pink

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
I am very hard on myself.

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
Jessica Shearer. I haven't seen her since I graduated college and I miss more than anything in the world.

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU?
Please

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Black pants and my new fun strappy heels.

20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?
Starburst. Yummy!

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
People blathering on about logistics. Blah blah!

22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Burnt sienna. Just kidding, I think that I would be gray.

23. FAVORITE SMELLS?
Lilacs, hazelnut, apples, and Aqua di Gio cologne. Fernie (my little baby cat) smells pretty good too, unless she's just been in the litterbox or at the food trough.

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
A girl who is doing my travel orders and cussing me out.

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
She's a real snot. Ha! She's one of my closest friends.

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
Football!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love the Colts with all my heart and soul.

27. HAIR COLOR?
Brown.

28. EYE COLOR?
Blue and I love them!

29. Do you wear contacts?
I really should.

30. FAVORITE FOOD?
I will make a list here. I love sushi, mashed potatoes, black olives and ice cream. I could live on these four items. I would be tubby, but the living would be good.

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
What about a scary movie with a happy ending where the bad guy/girl gets ground up in a wood chipper and the people he/she was terrorizing fall in love and live happily ever after? Is that an option?

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
Who Killed the Electric Car? WATCH THIS MOVIE!

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
Pink and red. I look hot!

34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
I can't choose between those. I love the Fall. I guess I would choose winter though b/c I don't like to be hot.

35. HUGS OR KISSES?
Hugs, because you can hug anyone you want. Kissing needs a little better invitation.

36. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Sticky rice (thanks Lindsay)

37. Most like to respond
Lord knows, we are all pretty busy but I wanted a break from Logistics.

38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND
Lainie Bear, since she sent this to me and I already know so much about her.

39. What book are you reading now?
I just finished "The Messenger, by Daniel Silva, and I'm also reading "The World is Flat" (and a little boring)

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
Rastafarian kittens that say "We Be Jammin" It's my most favorite thing in the whole world besides my spinning monkey that sings "Temperature"

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT?
Law & Order

42. FAVORITE SOUND?
Fernie's fake meow where she just sort of squeaks at me. I also love to hear Mircea say "I love you". And I love when my friends say the same to me because they really are the best!

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Beatles There is no comparison.

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
Mexico

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
I call it the spider monkey.

46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Cincy, Ohio

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK?
Anyone and everyone

EnvironMENTAL Katey Pooh

I have not been the dedicated blogger as of late. I’ve been doing a fair amount of travel for work, and have been having internet connectivity issues at home, so I haven’t had a lot of time to blog. I’m waiting for someone to meet me to fix my work computer, so I have a couple of minutes and thought I’d try to put together a blog post.

A lot has happened inside my little head the last couple of weeks. I have officially become incensed over the environment and I’m afraid that I’m going to grow out my armpit hair and join the Peace Corps and get some Birkenstocks. This all started when I watched Who Killed the Electric Car? I have enraged. Fuming. Crazy with emotion. MAD. Why do I live in a country (or a world for that matter) that puts business decisions over ethical and environmental concerns? Why do we think that it is ok? Why do we invent technology and then destroy it because people will lose jobs and fat-cat CEOs will lose millions (and still be rich)? Why do we let certain Middle Eastern countries that I will soon be traveling to, control the prices of oil and other resources simply because we have political and business agreements with them to do so? ARGH! I’m so frustrated and I don’t know what I can do about it. I watched An Inconvenient Truth, and I feel about Al Gore, the same way I feel about Michael Moore; just tell whole truths and I’ll respect you a lot more. Let me explain. I think that both of them add their little twist to it to make it more exciting and entertaining. The truth is scary enough for intelligent individuals to decipher, so stop insulting me and just give me the facts. Is there anyone out there who wants to give the facts? Even my precious Robin Meade, who I profess my undying love to, sways the news with her own opinions sometime. Ok, back to An Inconvenient Truth. We all have total control over our environment. In the products we purchase, in the way we recycle, in our usage of resources. It can be difficult. It can be expensive, but it is SOOOOO worth it. I’ll probably start spouting more of this stuff in the future, but I want to do some research on it before I start “Michael Mooring”. I’ve also been looking at some info on the Green Party. Yeah, that’s right, little Conservative Katey Pooh is changing her ways. But the Green Party isn’t going to win any elections anytime soon so I’ll have to find an appropriate CANDIDATE-not party, to support. I believe that we should support whomever the Nation chooses as a President (that includes Dubya and Bill “Lies” Clinton) but I think we should demand better candidates and understand a little bit more about the fundraising process. Get me those Birkenstocks!

I don’t want to go on about this now, but I want a person to know that it is on my mind and it’s something that is really swaying a lot of my thoughts and decisions lately. I am once again seriously considering the purchase of a Prius, though I’d prefer we just have the electric car technology that already exists.

The take-home here: Patty, Sarah and Lindsay: I assume that you’re proud of my non-Republican ways that I’m coming into. I just want my children and grandchildren to have a place to live that isn’t run by sheiks in that country that I can’t mention because I’ll be traveling there.

Other than politics, I have a lot of things I’d like to blog about, including my new Calphalon pots that I purchased, and the cottage that is just the cutest thing ever!

Goodbye My Lover-The Sims 2

This is awesome and there are a lot more like it!

I'm Baaaaaack!

It has been a long three weeks out of the office and today was a day for catching up and trying to organize my life. 400 emails later, I'm finally able to address some of the issues, but thought I'd take a little lunch break and update my wonderful friends on the happenings. There are a lot of topics to write about, but the main one is my roadtrip to pick up Yukon this past weekend. On Saturday afternoon, I went up to Lindsay's house and after a day of shopping we retired early so we could get up at the "ass-crack" of dawn. We left her house at 5 am and drove the 600 miles to Ohio to pick up Yukon. After a yummy lunch at Skyline Chili, we put the big boy in the car and headed home. My favorite quote of the second leg of our trip was "You know, I don't want to complain, but I think I have more fur on me then Yukon does." I looked over and Lindsay and she was, indeed, covered in fur from head to toe. It was so gross, and so so so so funny. Yukon was in love with us, so happy to have the attention, and just a sweetheart. That is until last night. I brought him home on Monday (after sleeping over at Lindsay's again) and he has a new crush. He is in love with his Daddy. And Mircea is in love with him. I can't pull them away from each other. They were cuddling all night long and Yukon got two kisses goodbye this morning (and I only got one). I'm so jealous of their man-boy love. I'll post some pictures later. I don't have my camera here at work. Watch for more updates!!!

Quick Update

I'm in Ohio at a training class and haven't had a whole lot of internet connectivity (which is not good for my final assignment for my DHS class as I can't do the research for it until I get home). Here are some updates...

• I got to see my cousin's son (so I guess he's my second cousin) John, and he is just the coolest kid in the whole wide world. I wanted to take him home with me!! I definitely want to have him visit some time for a week or so and I'll show him the joys of Maryland.
• I ate at Skyline Chili twice, but will make one more trek before I leave. Yummy!
• I have another cat! My cousin's cat Yukon (who is a 24 lb monster!) is coming to live with us in good ol' Maryland. Poor John is allergic to him so Mircea and I talked and the "little" guy will come and stay with us. Unfortunatly, he's too fat to take on the plane, so I am going to road-trip with Lindsay and will come pick up the fat boy.
• I've been working out in the morning since I got here and it is just great! I have so much more energy all day long and I don't have time to make excuses that early in the morning. Woo hoo!!

Ok, I need to get back into this class. Hope all is well and I will update more...plus pictures of fatty boy!

It's Been a Week...

and I'm still upset. Last Tuesday I got home from work and decided to watch a movie. I chose The Wicker Man, which has to be the worst movie I've ever seen. It was so terrible and so ridiculous that I kept asking myself it the actors (Nicholas Cage, Ellen Burstyn) were laughing when they were trying to say their lines. TERRIBLE TERRIBLE FILM! I could go into it so much more, but I am trying not to dwell on it...but it sucked!



Other than that complete waste of time, I've had a pretty good week. I finished my grad school classes for the semester (early, because I'm going on travel for 3 weeks), spent some time with good friends, started my exercise routine up again, ate some delicious steak that Mircea made, and started reading Harry Potter. I wanted to take good old "Larry" (as Mircea called him this morning) on my trip, but it was too tempting to wait so I'm trying to slowly read it. I borrowed some books from Marc ages ago and will take those on the trip too because I'm sure it will be boring.



Life is just generally better right now, and I don't think it's all my happy medicine. I don't take much (5 mg) and all it really seems to help me with is not dwelling on things. Mood elevators sure are nice and now everything seems to be within my reach.

I hope everyone out there has a great week and I just want to let you know that I appreciate your friendship. I'm learning to count my blessings and I can't seem to count that high!

I Made Sushi (And I Lived to Tell About It)

Mircea and I are obsessed with sushi. OBSESSED. So naturally we eat a whole lot of it. We're not even picky. We like it all. The fancy restaurants, the market, hell, if someone was selling it on the street we'd probably buy it. So we started to make our own, and if I may say, it's at the very least, grocery store quality. I sort of have a knack for this thing. I bought my little "sushi deluxe" kit on Amazon, and it's awesome. Great book with lots of tricks and recipes, as well as some pretty nice little chopsticks with rests and some other stuff. The only thing I still need is a rice paddle, and I'll get that soon enough (I haven't had time to go back to the Asian market). I want to take a picture of it sometime because I think it is beautiful and it sure is tasty. I did have a Wasabi incident though and Mircea and I almost died, but other than that it was great. I made tuna rolls on Sunday and I'm making salmon rolls tonight. We'll probably die of mercury poisoning, but it's a risk we're willing to take!

Not Falling Back Into the Past

I had a rough couple of days there, where I really hit rock bottom and felt like there was not hope for the future. Not about me and Mircea, but just in general, I felt like my life was so overwhelming and I couldn't handle it. Well, it is so overwhelming, but I CAN handle it. I'm really making an effort on not being so hard on myself. Not judging myself constantly and rehashing all my transgressions in my life. Day 3 and it's already quite liberating. I also read a book which really enlightened me and I hope to really adopt those ideas because I feel they will make my life so much more livable.

I read, The Four Agreements, and the first 16 pages of it blew my mind. It was so simple, it was so obvious, yet, so hard to grasp sometimes. I think that everyone should read it (happy or not) because it really speaks a lot to human nature and how to interact with others. I don't want to go too much into it unless someone has some questions, because I don't want to seem like preachy-preacherton, but let's just say the book talks a lot about setting ourselves free from our own judgement and realizing that each day is ours. Simple stuff right? It blew my freakin' mind.

This past year has been such a journey for me. There are times when I've felt so low, times I felt so high, times that I thought I'd never get through this, and times when I didn't want to, I just wanted to stay in the moment. I'm a late bloomer on this whole "grown-up" thing and I have a long way to go, but nothing in the past year hasn't made me stronger and I've learned so much about myself and the journey I want to take for my life.

Anyone But 24

While driving to work today I was noticing a lot of interesting bumper stickers. I mean really, it was like "Bumper Sticker" day, and I was noticing them all. Once I got on base, the one I saw that really made me think was the "Anyone but 24" bumper sticker, that I've not found out supports the Fans Against Gordon site. This big ol' truck went so far as to have a sticker that was a picture of a screw with a 24 over it. It seems that these people don't care who wins, as long as it isn't Jeff Gordon (who is hot, but cocky as hell). I was really surprised that there wasn't a Calvin peeing on 24 on this guy's truck, but hey, he's got class right? Ok, so this is interesting enough, but the part that cracked me up is when we got to a traffic light and another red truck pulls up behind him. This truck is LOADED with Jeff Gordon bumper stickers, and this guy is a supporter. I can't imagine the guy in the back truck, just fuming over the animosity towards his beloved Gordon. I actually looked over at him in his truck and I could see him shaking his head at the car in front of him. I had to laugh. The moral of the story: Nascar is lame. HA! I'm just being a meanie.

Oh the Places I have Been

Where Have You Been?


Hopefully I will get to travel some more for work, but at this point, I think I've been most places that we've have Naval bases, so the odds of me expanding my domestic travels for work are slim. Hopefully soon I'll be able to add some countries to this!

Sometimes the right words just come to you when you need them. From my Daily Motivator site for 10 July.

Take care of you

First, take good care of yourself. When you do, there is no limit to the value you can create for all the other people in your life and your world.

Begin each day by being good to yourself. When you are the best you can be, that's when you have the most to give.

Find the real joy that lives in each moment, and allow yourself to be filled with it. Your joyful approach to life can make a world of positive difference for everyone around you.

Find and fulfill those things that bring you enjoyment and real satisfaction. It is in those things that you can bring great value to the world.

There's a reason why it feels so good to feel good. It encourages you to do what you do best.

Be good to you, and you'll become a more interesting, creative and productive person. Be good to you, and you'll have what it takes to truly make a difference in the lives of others.

-- Ralph Marston

I guess we'll see how this goes. I have calmed down a little and I'm not looking at this from such a fatalist perspective. Mircea and I both knew that we were taking things fast by moving in together so quickly, but we had such strong feelings for each other and felt like things were right. I'm not sure that moving out is really going to solve a problem with him, but I guess it will solve the problem of two people who shouldn't be together living together.

I know I was jumping in with both feet and I knew it could hurt, but things were so great before I started letting my low self-esteem and negative self-talk convince me that he didn't really love me and that I wasn't good enough for him.

I'm so sad that I blew it. I will miss being with him so much. I loved pulling up to our little house on the dirt road and seeing him out working in the yard all sweaty and sweet. He was my home. I guess I need to be my own home.

Put Me Out of My Misery

Just a quickly as we decided to move in together, I'm moving out of Mircea's house. We just can't get along within these 4 walls, but although we haven't made it "official", this is the end of our relationship too because how can it not be?

I loved him so much. Too quickly, but I fell for him like I've never fallen before. He treated me like a Queen, he showed me a world I never knew was possible, but this, like every relationship I'm in, fell apart because I can't stand myself. I'm so insecure, and so unsure of every move I make in life, that I fall to pieces, especially when there is someone to "perform" for.

Oh my gosh, I miss him already. I haven't even left yet, but my heart is in 1000 pieces and I know that I've lost something wonderful. Hopefully I'll gain some perspective and gain some confidence in myself and stop looking to a man to fulfill my life.

Why must my summers be so miserable? Why must every day of my life be such a challenge? I don't want to leave here because I fear that taking this step back means will never go forward again. I just want to be happy. Somehow I guess that makes sense in my head that I meet a man, we fall in love, we get married and have a family. All I want in the world is to have a family and raise happy children. Ugh.

I'm moving out the second week of August, so I'll let you know about the new place. It's the cottage next to my old one, and it's three bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths and much nicer than the old place. That's something at least!

Happii Birthday to Mii!

Yesterday was a pretty great day, except for the fact that I had to work, was sick all day, and got kicked out of the swimming pool due to a thunder storm. Other than that, it was awesome! I played beer pong with Robyn, Andrew, Ben, and some other friends, and I was terrible at it, but that's no surprise. Robyn told me that 27 is the physical peak, and that scares me because if this is my peak, I sure don't want to see my valley!

The fun part of the night is when I got home. Mircea gave me my birthday present, which is a Nintendo Wii! I'm very excited and can't wait to set it up (I was too tired last night). Now I'm researching all the games and necessary components, so that is interesting (and expensive). I'm definitely excited b/c I want to play Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree, and Mario Party 8. Woo Woo!!!!! Of course I have to save up my pennies to buy those games, but still, woo woo!!

My Golden Year

I've got some goals for this next year. I intend on making 27 a fantastic year. My life has been blessed thus far, but I've got some personal goals that I'd really like to meet (or exceed) during this, my Golden Year. Wikipedia defines the Golden Year as:


One's golden birthday, also called a champagne birthday, is the day when the age someone turns is the same as the day in the month he or she was born. (for example, someone turning 26 on December 26 celebrates his or her golden birthday).

The following goals are those for my 27th year of life.

• Complete the Marine Corps Marathon
• Complete graduate school (MBA program)
• Travel Overseas (Mexico and Canada are no longer counting as "out of country")
• Gain credibility in my position at work
• Participate in the Patuxent River Mini-Triathalon
• Repair relationship with stepmother without being submissive
• Begin and maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle. I'm sure not getting any younger!
• Earn the respect of co-workers and peers
• Work to the potential I am capable
• Ease up on myself-I'm only human and I'm bound to not be perfect. In fact, that's in my description
• Build a better relationship with my religion and beliefs
• Create a mission statement and vision
• Be my authentic and true self

So Happy Birthday to me (Do I owe Michael Jackson royalties for that?) and I have a lot to do in this year. I'm definitely "In Repair" as the John Mayer song so eloqouently describes.

Tagged by Stephany

Here are the rules: Each player starts with seven random facts or habits about himself or herself. A tagged player then writes a blog entry with the seven things, as well as these rules. Then the player tags seven others and lists their names on his or her blog. Remember to leave a comment for your newly tagged players, letting them know they have been tagged and to read your blog!

Seven random facts/habits about me:

1. I'm adopted and the date on my birth certificate (tomorrow!) is different than the date the Social Security Administration has on file. I'm assuming the birth certificate is right, but I actually got the one with my name on it when I was three (before I was "baby girl") so I'm a little nervous.

2. I sweat like a pig all the time. Even when it's cold outside. I promise, I'm clean, but sweaty!

3. I hate flossing my teeth.

4. Until I dated Mircea, all the guys I've dated have the most boring names ever. (Sorry guys)

5. I pretend that I like the Chicago Cubs. I don't give a rat's ass about them, but it's my only link to the city and I really liked living in that area.

6. I think Jesus Christ Superstar is the best musical in the whole world and think that anyone who doesn't like it, doesn't understand it.

7. I think I'm in the wrong career. I like this, but I'm pretty sure it isn't my calling.

I'm not going to tag anyone. I'm a party pooper-though I didn't want to poop on Stephany's party, so I posted this!

Good Times, Neat Fun

My weekend definitely got better, despite its rocky (Friday) start. On Saturday I got up and ran (walked) three miles, and then did some lunges, which is why I can hardly move today. When Mircea got home we watched Meet the Fockers, which is pretty funny. I saw it in the theatre, but he’d never seen it before and he liked it enough. Oooh, and Mircea made ribs for dinner and they were so delicious. That man can cook.

Sunday started with me lying in bed doing nothing and watching Made on MTV for a few hours. Then I went over to Marc’s house to play some Nintendo DS and make a pseudo-birthday cake. After a two hour drive back to my house (big ol’ traffic accident) Mircea and I went out on the boat and stopped for dinner and drinks at Clarke’s Landing and then enjoyed an additional libation at the Solomon’s Pier.

This week seems like it will be something special. I am spending the night at Lindsay’s tonight up in DC so I can get to my meeting in the morning. Usually my work would pay for that, but enough idiots dropped the ball that I’m sort of left to my own devices while I brief the International community. Woo hoo! I’m getting excited about Wednesday. I’m going to go swimming with Robyn and then we’re going to go over to our friend Ben’s house for beer pong. And then I get to go home and get my birthday present from Mircea (who has class so he won’t be joining the beer pong). I’m so excited, just because he’s a good, thoughtful gift giver so it should be something interesting. I just love that he puts the thought into it!!!

I hate work. That’s all.

The Day Shaped Up

Ok, yesterday started out with a big smelly toot, but it turned out ok. At the very least I got the house nice and clean, played with the kitties, and when Mircea got home we talked and I think we understand each other a little bit better. So that's that. But he's still a nag (and I know Marc is thinking-ha, you get what you deserve because you were a nag!)

I watched Tears of the Sun last night, which will always be "the movie that Marc went to alone when he first moved to Maryland". We really liked it. Mircea had seen it but hadn't remembered it all, and I thought it was pretty great. I have started liking action/drama. What's a girl to do?

Ok, I have nothing else to write, but I wanted to tell you all that Mircea and I didn't kill each other.

All This Fun Before 9:30 a.m.?

• Mircea and I have a huge fight this morning. He storms out like a child. Will not take calls.
• 10 voicemails when I get to work, basically indicating that this huge brief I have to do has no hope of ever being right.
• Computer doesn't work because NMCI lost a cord.
• Find cord, access tons of emails because I've been out of the office working elsewhere for 4 days.
• Boss not there to answer questions
• Donation center closed. Broke rules and left my donations outside (like everyone else did)
• Return home to cat vomit EVERYWHERE. Wicked awesome. Had to get the steam cleaner out.
• Day of cleaning ahead of me because Mircea thinks that if he works all day I should do everything around the house-lest we forget that I work all day too.

I'm just a merry sunshine today. Who knows where I'll live tomorrow, but I'll tell you all this-I'm sick of taking shit from people that are supposed to love me.

Hmph

I want a new blog template. I don't like any of them on the web and want to make my own. Sadly, I had some html skills (which I never really used on here) from college, but I don't understand this xml stuff, and it appears to be somewhat different.

Why can't I just know things without having to do a lot of hard work?

On another note, I am so tired. I don't know what is going on, but I get up all night to use the restroom, and I've been not having liquids after like 6 pm. What am I, a hundred years old? Eww-there was an ant crawling on me. At work. Where did that come from?

I have nothing to say. Just whining. Hope everyone has a good day.

My New Baby

There is a new gal in my life and she's made her way into my heart (not that it's too difficult-I'm a sucker for a fur-baby). This is Stinky (her name was Squeaky, but when Mircea got her he changed her name because her breath is atrocious) and she is 18 years old! She's a pretty big sweetie, though she sometimes bites a little bit. She loves to cuddle and she has the funniest little meow. There's one huge problem with Stinky-she HATES Lily. She doesn't mind Fern too much (though she attacked her this morning) but usually she and Lily just go round and round, hissing and fighting. Mostly because Lily is a big fat baby and hisses at everything. She hisses at herself in the mirror. She is unbearable. I know Marc has a couple stories about how Lily would hiss when he would try to move when she was sitting on his lap. But we love her anyway. Back to Stinky. Sweet cat. Love her.

Dear Adam Levine,

I have so much I want to say to you. That's not true, I think if I met you I'd do something similar to what I do when I see you on tv. I stop and stare. I don't know what my problem is, but I see you on the tv and I just sort of melt into your eyes. I don't like you. I want you to know that. I think that you are a total tool and you've only said one funny thing in your entire life. (it was on VH1, I don't want to get into it, but it was funny.) You have only said stupid things otherwise. But I am obsessed with you. Not like in that "I have posters on my wall and I'm a Maroon 5 groupie" sort of way, but in that "all life stops when I see you on the television" kind of way. Especially in the She Will Be Loved video, which is just ridiculous, but those eyes. THOSE EYES!!!
So if you come to town, stay away from me, because I won' t be able to stay away from you. You tool...you hot hot hot hot tool.

It's Already Been a Week?

I have been working on some posts, but they are all in draft form and not really relevant right this moment. I've been keeping busy the last week, with stuff at the cottage, and stuff at Mircea's house, as well as swimming laps with Robyn, organizing clothes, and making an Ikea trip with Marc. The French Embassy wine and cheese thing was really cool. We get all dressed up and schmooze with all kinds of fun people and it's just a fun way to get out and still be at work. Driving in DC is not a treat though, but we somehow survived (even though I was driving!)

I'm doing pretty well with Weight Watchers, so I'm happy. I had a good loss this week and I'm not feeling so hungry. That brings me to my next topic-cooking. I really love it. I've been cooking dinners the last week or so because Mircea is working 12 hour days (7 days a week!) and I thought it would be nice to have dinner on the table for him when he got home. I have some yummy recipes to share with people...are you guys interested? And if you have some to share I would love them. I've been doing this with Robyn the last couple of weeks and it's been really fun for us to try new stuff and report back on changes we made, what our friends thought of the food, etc. I'll get the ball rolling by posting this yummy yummy recipe that I made on Friday. It was a hit and really really simple.

Chicken Gyros with Dill Sauce

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
2 large garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 pound skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
4 fresh pita bread rounds, heated
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1. In small bowl blend together yogurt , 2 tablespoons dill, garlic and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken with oregano, 1 teaspoon dill, salt and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.
3. Add 1 tablespoon oil to skillet and sauté onions until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Return chicken and any juices to skillet. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir until heated through, about 2 minutes.
4. Top pita rounds with chicken mixture. Spoon dill sauce over chicken and serve. This sandwich is folded in half and eaten. Pass the extra sauce, as desired.

Serves 4.
**I left out the onions on this because I was tired and hungry. It turned out really well though!!**

Hey!

Hope everyone had a nice weekend. Mine was rainy and wet, and I moved all my stuff out of the house in that rain and wet. Gross. I have so much more to write, including movie reviews, music reviews and a wild dissertation on animal husbandry, so stay tuned in the coming days.

One quick fun thing. I'm going to a wine and cheese party at the French Embassy tomorrow evening. It's this fancy event and I'm super excited, despite the fact that I will have to sausage myself into some sort of outfit, but it will be neat nonetheless.

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Remember Me

My friend sent me this video and I don't want to get into politics with this, but this video deeply moved me. I support the men and women that fight every day for our freedom (whether they should be there or not) and their families that support them.

Weekend Wrap-up

I hope that everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend. I had a pretty good time, and I was highly productive, so I'm feeling pretty good. On Friday Mircea and I picked up some Colonial Field Stones for the front yard, and since the Hoopty couldn't handle the full pallet we had to split it into two trips which meant, are you ready, we had to handload the truck, drive home, unload the truck by hand, drive back, load up the second part, drive home, and unload it once more. Little Kateypooh got her exercise. Yes, my back hurts, but that was only the start of the back breaking activities. When Mircea went to work I spent the evening catching up with a friend watching the Office and burning some cds (should I admit that illegal activity?) It was so nice to catch up.

Saturday. I have no freakin' clue what we did on Saturday. Seriously, I'm calling Mircea right now to ask him. Oh wait, I remembered (puts down phone). Mircea worked nights so he slept most of the morning, and I did too because the power had gone out (we heard the transformer blow) and there really wasn't anything else to do but read and sleep and I'd finished all the reading I could handle. After lunch we hooked the trailer up to the hoopty (I should explain, it's a 1990 S-10, and it could fall apart at any minute) and went out to my house to pick up some boxes and furniture to put in the storage shed. I'm almost all moved out of my place, which is a total overexaggeration-there's a ton of stuff there, and we've moved a ton of stuff, so really, I have too much stuff!

Sunday was great. We put the boat in the water at about 9 am and started what was once again, a terrible fishing excursion. This time Mircea's closest friend Tony came along, and it was so nice to finally meet him. The catch is that he is my boss' son, and I'm terrified of this boss (he just signs timecards and stuff) so it made for a fun day. Tony and I drank too much, and then we toured the river eating crab cakes and not catching a darn thing, but we had a blast. Went to bed early (passed out-just me!) and got up early as heck on Memorial Day. At least I did. I watched the special on CNN about Memorial Day and it was very beautiful and moving (and featured my precious Robyn Meade). Then Mircea and I proceeded to clean the entire house, top to bottom, and make it a lot more liveable. Mircea has a ton of projects in the works right now, but no time to do them, so we made the decision to put all the projects in the storage shed for a later date and just live in the whole house (we had only been living in about 700 square feet of it which was kind of cramped.) The best part of the day is a tie. It was either the rides I kept getting in the wagon on the lawn mower or the mouse that came out of the carpet from the shed, announced seconds earlier by it's dung (at least we had a warning). We missed a party at my friend John's house, but as it turned out, it was probably a good thing that we missed (some very interesting dramatic stuff happened to a friend of ours.)

Ok, was that painfully detailed enough? Ooh, we also watched a little Deadliest Catch, when we were recovering from the mouse in the carpet. I'll have a whole post on "the Catch" later.

Is it Great Aunt Susie, or a Rack of Lamb?

I think the Vytorin commercials are the stupidest marketing ploy created by the "ad wizards". What the heck? They show a piece of somewhat fattening food and then show a person next to it that is supposed to resemble the food. The whole scheme is that you can get high cholesterol/blood pressure from you "Fat-as-a-ham Dad" or just a "ham". Or maybe it's both!

I really don't have anything else to say about this. I had a whole rant in my mind, but I think that the idiocy of this commercial is so clear that you don't really need my mocking words.

Shout-out to Lindsay who is graduating today from Copper Mountain. Woo woo!!! And she'll be in DC in a few short weeks. I am so excited!

You Know What Really Grinds My Gears?

Rant Alert: I will be whining and complaining about humanity and traffic. And some foul language that does not include the F word.

This morning is not the first time it happened to me. This morning isn't even the angriest I have ever been about this. But this morning is when I decided that I had to blog about this to see if other people were experiencing this (and also to determine if those that I think are my friends are actually the enemy).

So what am I talking about? I'm talking about the great driving phenomenon of two lanes merging into one lane, and those rat-bastards that believe that they are better than everyone else and can speed around to the front of the line, slowing the traffic even more. WHO THE F ARE THESE PEOPLE!?! Do they not give a crap that everyone has been merging the past .5, 1, or even 10 miles (because of the missplaced sign) and they are like "wow, this is such a clear lane, why are all these other chumps over there?". That's the thing of it; these people aren't oblivious, they know damned well what they are doing. They think that the rules don't apply to them. These are the same assholes that when a cashier opens a new line at the grocery store and they are at the end of a 10 person line, run over to that line and get served immediatly. Why is this so hard for people? Mircea and I went to the My Chemical Romance concert and waited in the longest line known to man because people would ignore the sign that said "Merriweather Post Pavilion: Right Lane Only" and would speed around us only to cut back in front of us right at the turn. This is not a way for traffic to move...this is a way to back up traffic more as everyone brakes, honks, and tries to block out people. The missplaced sign thing is awesome too. Several years ago on a trip to North Carolina to see my parents, there was a sign just North of Raleigh-Durham that said "Right lane closed ahead" and so the majority of people got over at beginning and other people sped around them for several miles only to find that there was never a problem. It was a disaster and added like 45 minutes to our trip.

Does this piss anyone else off? Anyone have any stories to tell? I get angry at these people because it truly hurts me to my core. I feel like it isn't just a person going "der, I'm the only one in this line" I really believe that it is people going "you know what, I can get ahead of this passive people that are following the rules, and I will, because I can."

A Smile from Above

This morning was one of those mornings where I feel the spirit of my mother with me. As soon as I got into the car I heard one of my favorite songs and it just put me in a great mood. I changed the station and heard What a Feeling, from Flashdance, which was one of my mom’s favorite songs. She would really rock out to that, doing here little foot tapping dance that I miss so much. Then the XM beeped in on a song I love (Human Nature, Michael Jackson) and I sang along to that like I used to sing along to it with my mom when I was a kid. And then the waterworks started, because I was on the Heart. Bette Midler’s Wind Beneath my Wings (from Beaches) was one of my mother’s favorite songs. She and my dad played it at their 25 wedding anniversary, where they renewed their vows, and then a couple years later we played it at her funeral. I was bawling. (I’m crying now at my desk) I’ve been thinking about my mother a lot lately. Mircea requested that I get rid of some of the junk I’ve been carrying around (for years) and I’m trying to avoid the task. I need to pare down some of the books (all my mother’s) as well as sell/donate some of the knickknacks from my childhood. (I should explain: when my dad got remarried I was given all of the family memorabilia, so I really do have an attic full of memories-and no attic.) I don’t really know how to go through all that stuff. I know it will be sad, and I just don’t feel like Mircea understands how hard it is for me. It definitely would have been nice to have a mom to advise me when I was going through all the mess last summer (can you believe it’s almost been a year?) I think that mothers and daughters often have volatile relationships, but I know that I sure need my mommy sometimes, even though I spent so many years pushing her away.

Ok, I don’t want to keep everyone depressed, so I’ll post something good and positive. We’re leaving for our little camping trip today at 3:30 and we’re both so excited for the mini-vacation. We’ve both got some good books to read, some yummy food to cook, and some hiking trails marked for some exercise and photo-ops.

**In an interesting note, I did a Google search for my mom, and there is a list of names/dates from gravesites in their county in Ohio. I saw my mom, and both her parents on there. They say that they are updating pictures (which I have of the headstones) for geneology purposes. Very interesting.**

Is it the Weekend Yet?

We're going camping this weekend and I just can't wait. So much that I keep wishing it was Thursday, so badly that I can't concentrate on anything. The new Linkin Park cd comes out today. I will be purchasing it, but I feel so broke lately after all my teeth adventures that I will feel some guilt from that. I have a $5 coupon and it's only $9.99 so I guess I'll be ok, right?

Mircea bought some cabinets and floors for this house on Sunday, so we've got some projects coming up in the next few weeks and months that will really get his house taking shape. I think his first goal is getting the kitchen done, and we picked out some nice tile for that. I'm pretty excited and I'm also looking forward to learning how to lay tile-that boy knows it all!

Hope everyone is having a great day. We're having a "1 day heat wave" here and it's like 85 degrees which is much too sticky for me. Where is Spring? I hate running in icky, muggy weather and Spring is my only reprieve from that around here.

Speaking of running, I have resurrected my running blog, though I haven't posted anything grand on it yet (or anything for that matter.) I'm not allowed to post until I actually get off my bum and RUN!

Caught Me a Marlin

Yesterday Mircea and I went fishing with one of his friends from work (Vince). We got the boat in the water at about 8 am, with the plan to be back home by about 1 pm. Ahh, the best laid plans never work out, do they? We stayed out on the Bay until about 1 , trying to catch the "elusive only to our boat" rockfish, which usually ranges in the 40 inches. Of course we didn't catch one, or three, which was our goal. We went back towards Solomon's Island and had lunch on the water at Stoney's (those people are getting way too much of our money-we always go to one of their locations when we are boating).

We decided to go back out on the Bay to try our hand again, and after we were out there a little while I said "Honey, I think that we should turn on the marine radio-I bet there is some sort of small craft advisory or something" and of course I was vindicated because there was and I quickly believed that we would capsize and became terrified that we were the only boat out on the water. We quickly made it to the safety of the Patuxent River, where the weather was sunny and warm (how quickly things change) and we decided to fish for some smaller bottom feeders. This is when I showed the boys that I was the Bassmaster. I caught a total of 3 fish, but threw 2 of them back because they weren't very big. The two of them managed to catch two little fish apiece, and Vince also managed to catch a skate (which is best described as a football helmet with a tail) with the anchor when he dragged it in. Here's our bounty of the sea...

Do you like how unsure I am of holding this little fish? One of the tiny ones I had caught was very spiky and pinched me so I was scared of this one. Also you can see my haircut, which I don't love. I think it must be blow dryed to be of any value b/c now that my hair is shorter the cowlicks go crazy. Yipee!!

I better get to work. Tons of household chores (as always) and homework to do, so I better be good. Hope everyone had a nice weekend.

Sunshine

Ok, there is some sunshine in my heart today and I'm feeling a lot better. I agree with my commenters-you do have to be low to appreciate your highs and yes, I can get through this!

I have been so super productive at work this morning. I took a "mental health" day on Tuesday and had training yesterday so that was enough to get me back on track professionally. Thank goodness!

Tomorrow I'm getting my haircut, which is one of those "make me look new again" because my hair has become a rat's nest. Here are some of the options-though I might just say to the lady "do anything, make me hot".

Any thoughts?

As I'm getting better with time managment, I'll be able to post some stuff. I have some pictures to share from Key West, fishing expeditions, and a concert review from My Chemical Romance (for all my teenager readers)