tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-374402702024-03-07T01:37:28.118-08:00Sugar, Spice, Not Always NiceJameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-19080408180781638412009-02-25T20:27:00.000-08:002009-02-25T20:51:11.841-08:00Long time, no typeHeeyyy. How's it going? No, I didn't forget about my blog*, I've just been super busy what with quitting my job and starting pastry school full time.<br /><br />Speaking of, I'm in serious need of getting my booty back on my monthly goals track. I've gained a few of my pounds back, but you would too if you were making danish, croissant, and baked Alaska 4 days a week. On top of that, we took our annual Shake that Big Bear ski trip the first weekend of Feb, and who sprained her MCL? This girl. While I'm not gimping around town anymore, I'm starting to swim tomorrow in an effort to maintain my new found daily pastries habit. What, a girl needs her sweets.<br /><br />So what have I been up to? Here's the bullet version:<br /><ul><li>Went to Raleigh for work meetings in Dec, and went to a bar with skee ball. SKEE BALL! How freaking sweet is that?</li><li>Went home to MD for Christmas, drove around like a freaking manic, and swore to never return again. Except we have like 50 million wedding to go to this year, and all of them are there. Drat.<br /></li><li>Gave Duff a bath. Evidently he's a bit stinky.<br /></li><li>Finished working in Jan, job searching all of Feb, and so incredibly thankful I can now enjoy my Blackberry rather than thinking of it as an evil tether to Boss Lady.</li><li>Moved. Like 6 blocks. $100 more per month in rent for a parking space, laundry, two times as much space, and an ocean view. Yes, I'm crazy.</li><li>Joining a book club when I was so adamantly against joining one in the past. Justification: I need to meet new people other than the obnoxious 18 year olds in school with me. And duh, I like to read.<br /></li><li>Babysitting Liam! OK, only once, but J and I kicked ass at it! I mean, we were excellent role models for the young man.<br /></li></ul>I don't think I'll be able to update often as I have in the past, but here's a little peek at what I've been up to!<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /><a href="http://littlevenicebaker.tumblr.com/">Little Venice Baker</a><br /><br /></span>March Goals:<br />Get back on track with my exercise, most importantly, keeping my knee healthy.<br />Convince my friends to have weekly family dinners so I have somewhere to put all my baked goods, other than my mouth.<br />Start my etsy shop with local delivery for most goods, and shipping for others. Cookies anyone?<br /><br /><br />xoxo James<br /><br />* I still use it to read all the fabulous blogs in my roll, Google Reader what? Now I just need to get on actually commenting.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-23374868085448465392008-11-18T11:29:00.000-08:002008-11-18T11:53:11.577-08:00Just a wee bit intoxicatedYou may have noticed by my twitter, maybe not. Either way, I was drunk as a cute little skunk last night. Monday night. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">WTF</span>?<br /><br />Maybe it's because I'm hopping on the paranoid train with everyone here at the office. Seriously, I think I'm getting laid off this week. Last week was pretty rough in the office, what with 1/3 of HR out the door, with <strong>no announcement</strong>. IT tells us this week is going to be even worse. It's to the point where we debate sending out company wide "test" emails to see which ones bounce back. I mean, it's not like I would be upset if I lost my job. I think it's pretty obvious that I hate my job. I just don't like this feeling of uncertainty, and I certainly don't like the idea of no money. <br /><br />Actually though, last night's drunken escapades were a result of a lovely evening with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Jota</span>. I made us the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">tastiest</span>, easiest dinner ever (Balsamic glazed chicken and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">brussels</span> sprouts with pecans), and then we sat in the nook peeled paint off the table, and listened to music. That is until I got <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">bored</span> and ditched him for Gossip Girl. Love you honey!<br /><br />And seriously, dinner was so easy and great that I have to share. Enjoy!<br /><br /><em>Balsamic and Strawberry Glazed Chicken</em><br /><br />4 chicken thighs<br />1 tsp french tarragon<br />1/4 cup balsamic vinegar<br />3 tbs strawberry jam<br />juice from 1 lemon<br /><br />Heat olive oil in a skillet, toss thighs in and season with salt, pepper, and tarragon. Cook chicken through and remove. Put balsamic vinegar, jam, and lemon juice in the skillet to remove any bits of goodness. Heat through, and toss the chicken back in to coat. And you're done.<br /><br /><em>Brussels Sprouts with Pecans</em><br /><em></em><br />1 lb of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">brussels</span> sprouts (or like the bag from Trader Joe's)<br />1/4 cup of butter<br />1 tbs of butter<br />1 tbs maple syrup<br />1 tbs apple cider vinegar<br />1 oz chopped pecans<br /><br />Chop <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">brussels</span> sprouts so they're all shredded. Melt 1/4 cup of butter in skillet, toss sprouts in and cook until wilted, about 3 to 5 minutes. In the meantime, combine other tbs of butter (I never said this was healthy) with maple syrup and apple cider vinegar in a small sauce pan. Heat through, toss with finished sprouts and pecans.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-9630317928057461582008-10-30T11:12:00.000-07:002008-10-30T12:00:51.726-07:00Parking Wars<div>So I might have yelled at a grandma the other day. I might have called her a bitch, and told her to go fuck herself and then play in traffic. I might have a bit of road rage. I might not give a shit because I did grandma a favor. I mean, if she seriously thinks she can get away with the parking lot shenanigans she pulled with me last night, she's in serious trouble this holiday season. </div><div></div><br /><div>First, let's go over some parking lot ground rules. </div><ol><li>Please use your blinker to indicate that you're waiting on a spot.</li><br /><li>Please pull as far to the right as possible so that other cars can get around you while you wait.</li><br /><li>If you're going to slowly drive behind someone while they walk through the lot, ask them if they're actually going to leave. Not doing so is just plain creepy. </li><br /><li>Once you've passed a space, do not back up. Deal with it, and continue to wait patiently.</li></ol><p>Last night I stopped at Joann's Fabric on the way to my work event. I pulled into the small, horribly designed lot, and holy crikey was it packed. I was actually still sitting with the ass end of my car out on Lincoln Blvd, that is how crowded the parking lot was. So I'm sitting, and I'm waiting. The car in front of me, obviously frustrated, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">austin</span>-powered around to get out of the lot. So I'm thinking, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Sweeeet</span>, one less person for me to wait on."</p><p>I pull in so I'm not blocking the sidewalk, and luckily a woman walks out her car, the spot at the end of the parking lot. Yes, this could not work out any better. Oh I thought too soon. Crazy Grannie (who's waiting at the top of the lot) throws her car into reverse, skidding into a stop, blocking the car who's trying to leave. Then she sticks her had to wave me along. Excuse me? EXCUSE ME! I sat, didn't move, kept my blinker on. The lady trying to leave starts honking her horn. I'm all, "Dude, I'm not the one blocking your exit."</p><p>Crazy Grannie is all, "Well I'm not moving, I've waited 30 minutes for a spot."</p><p>Please see my diagram if you're having problems <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">visualizing</span> the situation.</p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SQoEBwkdi8I/AAAAAAAAAI8/pI1KgzVCoKo/s1600-h/joanns.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263023542800059330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 358px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SQoEBwkdi8I/AAAAAAAAAI8/pI1KgzVCoKo/s400/joanns.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><p>Me, better the <em>bigger</em> <em>person</em> and all, decides to leave, but not without unleashing the fury on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Botox</span> Babs. This Christmas season, I hope she runs into her friend Silicone Sally who drives a Range Rover while trying to park at The Grove. </p><p> </p></div>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-19923245165552490412008-10-30T11:02:00.000-07:002008-10-30T11:12:37.700-07:00Working GirlSo last night my entire team ended up going to The Parlor in Santa Monica to watch the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Lakers</span>/Clippers game with our client. Fun, right? Or not. Boss Lady put me "in charge" of the viewing party, and by in charge I mean she picked the time, location, invitees, etc. All I really needed to do was get there early and make sure food and champagne was on the table when everyone arrived. Of course, she was nearly an hour late, meaning the apps I had ordered were long gone, and everyone was bored as hell, sitting around waiting for her so we could order dinner. <br /><br />You'd think we would have been a more lively bunch. I mean here we are, sitting in a pretty decent bar, eating pretty decent food, drinking multiple bottles of pricey champagne; and people are more into watching the commercials and half time than the actual game. This is why I will never, ever, watch an NBA game with people from work again. I just wanted to scream, "People, enjoy the game! Stop bitching about AT&T this, Motorola that."<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Ahh</span> marketing. I hates it. The only good part of the night was my genius idea of absconding the unopened bottle of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Veuve</span> left on our table. Hello and welcome to High Class Halloween at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Jotas</span> tomorrow night!Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-42005052750076154012008-10-29T12:04:00.001-07:002008-10-29T14:43:55.456-07:00Halloween TimeI'll admit it. I love Halloween because it's the one day of the year I can dress like a slut and not have to worry about it. There, I said it. Mainly because my idea of slutty is totally G rated compared to most girls in LA who go all out for Halloween. Slap a leotard on me with some cute bunny ears and I'm good to go.<br /><br />This year though, I have no idea what to be. I have all of these great costumes and parts of costumes, but no direction on what to do.<br />I have this gigantic, obnoxious white fur coat, that I've always wanted to wear with a bikini and blue wig, and be Lil' Kim, but Jota says no one will get it. Seriously, how can you forget this...<br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1lPbQwZoAtE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1lPbQwZoAtE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />I also have this Rapunzel-esue wig I wore last year to be Princess Toadstool. I was thinking if I got a nude unitard, I could go as Lady Godiva minus the horse. Byn had a great idea of taking that outfit, add a bedazzler, and go as Britney circa her "oops I did it again" MTV VMA performance.<br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YkUIg7lqQ1Q&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YkUIg7lqQ1Q&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />Freaking sweet! If only I had time to make a tear away pant suit. The problem is I can't find nude dance pants anywhere. Once I find them though, it's on. Then I need to figure out a way to rig the ipod speakers to the back of the pants so I can play Ms. Spears all night long. And get a butterfly tramp stamp.<br /><br />If this doesn't work, I always have my girl scout, St Pauli girl, or Strawberry Shortcake costumes to fall back on.<br /><br />What are you being for Halloween?Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-28261428625532091642008-10-21T14:42:00.001-07:002008-10-21T15:12:44.689-07:00Wait, Not AgainYep, I'm taking a break from the booze again. Thankfully this time it's not to...<br /><ol><li>Lose more weight.</li><li>Stop being a total crazy person. </li><li>Optimize weight loss. </li><li>Hide my alcoholic beverage intake from my mom. </li><li>Stop attacking my friends like a total crazy person.</li><li>Remedy the blackouts.</li><li>All of the above. </li></ol><p>Nope, this time around it's because I'm plain old. And dude, old people get hangovers. Like irregardless of two beers or ten. </p><p>What I really should do is condition myself for the inevitable non-stop party that will be Byn's Thanksgiving visit, however I'm too lazy for that and will instead just quit until she gets here and then struggle through the hangover induced haze while she's here. </p><p>Homecoming turned out to be quite the adventure. I ended up rocking the sparkly blue dress with silver heels, headband, and my homemade corsage. Jota, looking like a dapper skater, dressed himself in plaid shorts, blue blazer, and ridiculous high tops. I need to get on updating my Flickr. </p><p>A few moments worth mentioning...</p><p>Class President Paul passed out in the front yard, Long Duk Dong style. I'd post photos but fear Homecoming Queen Allison will track me down and unleash the wrath on me like she did on Liz, and the cab her ride home. Yikes.</p><p>The boys performed like rockstars. Being artists, they claim to have sucked a phatty, and seeing as I was incredibly intoxicated, I can't argue otherwise. I do remember that at one point Jota chugged a cup of punch, threw the empty on the ground, stole a mic from someone and demanded a beer and jello shots. I happily obliged. And at one point, Murph jumped into the crowd to do the alligator while doing his best to imitate Michael J. Fox in Back to the Future. Drew pretty much held things together until he busted a string, in the second song. Meanwhile, I'm off to the side shouting to Michelle, "Dude, I gotta PEEEEE, but the last time I went during their show I got teased for the rest of the night." </p><p>At one point I found myself shovelling handfuls of Baked Lays and Sun Chips in my mouth, alternating flavors with gulps of beer. Thankfully I was a good girl and only had one cup of Amanda's deadly Pink Panty Droppers. Others, not so lucky. See above; Paul, Allison, Jota. </p><p>Sunday was unfortunately a waste of beautifulness as I was practically fused to the couch. Em did motivate me to get my ass to her house for yummy chili and spaghetti for dinner before our softball game. Note to self, do not eat chili when hungover, especially if you intend on any type of physical activity later on. I didn't even have Duff around to blame the smell on. </p><p>So, unless someone can reccomend an excellent hangover cure or even better preventor, I'm off the booze for a bit. </p><p></p><p></p>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-30949335626458851652008-10-13T19:37:00.000-07:002008-10-13T20:42:15.969-07:00Shallow and VapidThat's right. If you're looking for insightful commentary on the election, our economy draining down the crapper, or anything else that requires reading something other than the Calendar section of the LA Times*, move on. Not here. Not today. Not any day really because as I've mentioned before, I tend to get pretty worked up, and would rather spare y'all my crazy lunatic rants. <br /><div><br /></div><div>Anywho...the gals over at 1249 are having one of their infamous bashes**. This time around we're celebrating the time honored tradition of Homecoming. Of course the first thing that comes to my mind is, "What am I going to wear?"</div><div><br /></div><div>In a moment of brilliance, I remembered I saved all of my gowns from like every homecoming, prom, and pageant. Sadly, the green velvet, cap sleeved, short dress, with tulle did not make it past freshman year. WTF Cousin Jet, I know this monstrosity is languishing away in your closet missing out on all the great theme parties and Halloweens. Knowing the mama was coming out in September, I begged and pleaded for her to make room in her bag. Surprisingly, she actually remembered to bring all of them, throwing in the expected, "I don't see why I'm bringing these. You'll never be able to fit into them." </div><div><br /></div><div>Without further ado, please dear friends help me decide what to wear on Saturday! And let me know like yesterday, because they all reek of my parents' wood stove, and I need to dry clean immediately. Yes, I'm being cheap and only cleaning the one I wear. Times are tough, money's tight, Wall Street's tanking, blah blah blah. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQacywWsI/AAAAAAAAAIU/KxAIS1rxaBs/s1600-h/DSC01638.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQacywWsI/AAAAAAAAAIU/KxAIS1rxaBs/s200/DSC01638.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256844711639931586" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Prom, junior year. Worst date, and worst hair ever. I had this horrible zig zag part with a bouffant mohawk. No, I'm not joking. Be thankful I don't have photos to share. Ugh, and my date who wanted to go as "friends" tried to get fresh with me all night. When I'd finally had enough, I called my mom at 2am claiming to be sick. Also worn in the 1999 Miss Maryland USA pageant. My mom's idea of the best way to keep me from gaining the "Freshman 15". </div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQavWo68I/AAAAAAAAAIc/nUaaJWWZjws/s1600-h/DSC01646.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQavWo68I/AAAAAAAAAIc/nUaaJWWZjws/s200/DSC01646.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256844716622277570" /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Please excuse the wrinkles! All these lovelies have been smushed in a bag for the past two weeks. I wasn't kidding when I said they all smell like smoke. This one is from sophomore homecoming, worn again for Byn's senior homecoming, and again by me for the Fair Queen Pageant. Yep, Fair Queen, as in cows, pigs, corn and tomatoes. </div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQa38k-7I/AAAAAAAAAIk/Zg_yOrMFKyU/s1600-h/DSC01654.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQa38k-7I/AAAAAAAAAIk/Zg_yOrMFKyU/s200/DSC01654.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256844718928886706" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Senior homecoming, at a neighboring school. I LOVED this dress! I did not love the fact that I couldn't even wear undies because it's skin tight. I might have to rule this one out due to the massive amounts of beer I plan on drinking.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQbHGXpSI/AAAAAAAAAIs/nf4g2irAfgw/s1600-h/DSC01653.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SPQQbHGXpSI/AAAAAAAAAIs/nf4g2irAfgw/s200/DSC01653.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256844722996487458" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Ok, technically this one was worn at the first wedding I was allowed to drink at. I might have just broken up with the best man, and really wanted to piss his date off. I might have taken shots of Jager at the dinner table with the only other single person there, and in front of my parents. I also might have needed to be carried out of the reception, and I might have unsuccessfully tried to vomit out my car window while the car was moving. It's possible that after that mishap, I passed out in my eleven year old brother's lap. I think this might be the reason why he doesn't drink. I think my parents should have thanked me for showing him the evils of alcohol. I also think this dress knows how to have fun. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Help please!</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div> </div><div><div><div>* Yeah right, like I'd waste precious brain cells on what I often describe as "the most poorly written publication of our time." Washington Post all the way. </div><div><br /></div><div>** Please refer back to May/June for a recap of keg curls and table throwing at the Frat Party.</div></div></div></div>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-25655590745041822192008-10-10T16:43:00.001-07:002008-10-10T16:56:12.106-07:00Pre-Weekend UpdateFirst, many thanks to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Katelin</span> for well wishes on pastry school. One day I'll <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">messenger</span> over some sweet goodies to you. Only if you promise to share them with Ryan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Gossling</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Anywho</span>, I'm officially applied and accepted, now I only need to figure out how on Earth I intend to pay for it. Because seriously y'all, pastry school is freaking expensive.<br /><br />Nothing much going on in the World o' James this week. I went up to Seattle for an agency meeting that I spent pretty much all summer planning. Well, technically I spent about three weeks on this one, but there were multiple others including trips on seaplanes to British Colombia, private trains to Vancouver, and dinner cruises in Puget Sound that were cancelled. I kid you not. Having the freedom to spend nearly $30,000 on 30 people has pretty much ruined any chance I ever had of planning a small, budget friendly wedding. Not that I'm doing that. No pressure honey!<br /><br />No big plans for the weekend. Softball on Sunday, a little H&M with Em and the family. I'm in the mood to bake some autumn treats for the office on Monday, so I'll try to get around to that. People have requested brownies. I'm beginning to think I'm the only person in the world who prefers brownies from a mix to the real thing. Maybe I just haven't found the right recipe? <br /><br />The girls are hosting a homecoming party next weekend, so I may need some opinions on which dress to wear from my formative HS years. Pictures to be provided early next week.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-13903604784365157272008-10-02T13:24:00.000-07:002008-10-02T13:44:09.607-07:00So much to do, so little timeOh hello sad, neglected blog. Miss me? Jota posted more in September than me, and you know I can't have that. <br /><br />Had a fantastic visit with the moms...no, seriously. I'll add some flickr photos of us having the most fantastic time, promise. Even enjoyed some QT with Aunt S and Uncle D. Maybe there was one awkward moment, but that is significantly better than most interactions with the family. <br /><br />Right now I'm frantically running around like a crazy person, trying to pull together a corporate off site (Seattle, here I come!), trips to Europe (not mine), oh and finishing my application for pastry school. <br /><br />Yes, you read that correctly, pastry school. I gave my notice three weeks ago, was promptly offered part time work, and am now deciding if staying is actually worth it. We shall see how that goes. Classes start in January, and I've never been more pumped to spend four hours a day in a sweltering kitchen.<br /><br />Looking forward to <a href="http://twitter.com/prncssbyn">Byn</a>'s visit for Thanksgiving, and our trip to Disneyland for Christmas photos with Mickey and Minnie. I recently discovered a new Kitson warehouse across the street from Sprinkles Cupcakes in BH, this my friends is trouble. Orange Cranberry and Ginger Maple are the <a href="http://www.sprinklescupcakes.com/calendar/calendar2_2008.html">special flavors</a> while she's here. I'll take those along with some Banana, Peanut Butter Chocolate, and my all-time favorite, Cinnamon Sugar. Byn, are you cool with replacing turkey dinner with cupcakes and Andre?Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-35581753414898895692008-09-09T11:22:00.000-07:002008-09-09T11:47:57.537-07:00Cooking for OneDay Four of no Jota and the dishes are clean, I've taken the trash out, and Duff hasn't destroyed anything while I'm at work. I'm getting used to this taking care of myself, by myself thing. I may not be enjoying it, but it's almost over. <br /><br />Last night I didn't get home until way late, and almost decided to order in. My mom is notorious for grabbing the most random items out of the fridge and making a great meal. So instead of grabbing noodles from <a href="http://www.maoskitchen.com/">Mao's</a>, I crossed my fingers and said a little prayer that her gene for concocting great meals was passed on to me.<br /><br />And oh did it. After just 15 minutes, I had the tastiest dish ever, or at least this week. I feel it's my obligation to pass on the goodness. Being my mother's daughter, I don't exactly measure things while cooking. Deal with it. <br /><br />1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed<br /><br />1 small chinese eggplant, thinly sliced<br /><br />couple tablespoons of <a href="http://brands.kraftfoods.com/a1/products">A1 Chicago Steakhouse </a>marinade. Ehhh for steaks. Amazing on chicken.<br />maybe a 1/4 cup of low sodium chicken broth<br /><br />3 or 4 tablespoons of ricotta cheese<br /><br />In your skillet, heat up a teaspoon or two of olive oil while you cube your chicken. Toss that in there, and you know, get it cooked so you don't get salmonella. <br />Slice your eggplant and salt it to sweat the bitter out. <br />Pour some of the marinade in your pan, enough to coat the chicken. <br />Once the chicken is done, toss the eggplant in, and then add the chicken broth.<br />Simmer until the eggplant is finished, and then toss your ricotta in at the end. <br /><br />I'm sure this would also be great with some tomatoes tossed in, and served with whole wheat pasta.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-55966913781479650002008-09-04T12:28:00.000-07:002008-09-04T12:49:14.869-07:00Housekeeping...You want fresh towels?<br /><br />List of things I need to do soon in no particular order...<br /><ol><li>Add all of my new twitter buddies to my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">blogroll</span>. That way I will actually read everything and not miss stuff. </li><li>Give Duff a haircut and a bath. Homeboy needs his flea <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">meds</span> next week and is looking pretty scruffy.</li><li>Get back on a regular gym habit. Between my birthday, the poison oak, and my laziness, I've totally lost all of my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">cardio</span> shape. Seriously, I almost puked after 13 minutes on the treadmill last night. </li><li>Go to Sports Chalet for the following: softball glove, cleats, boxing gloves, spin shoes, and a tennis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">racquet</span>. Since when did I morph into Sporty Spice?</li><li>Do some research on eating/cooking vegetarian meals. I'm not giving up steak just yet, but I do heart me some beans. </li><li>Get rid of the gigantic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ikea</span> desk taking up precious space in the living room. In the process of looking for a chair that converts to some type of bed that's not mad expensive. PS this would be for you <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Byn</span>!</li><li>Figure out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">WTF</span> I'm going to do with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Jota</span> gone from Sat to Thurs. I'm trying to not watch all of the shows I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">dvr'ed</span> (Did I really just use that as a verb?) this week. </li><li>Lay off the booze for a bit to optimize weight loss. Momma comes to town on the 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">th</span>, and sadly I need to look as thin as possible. Especially since she's bringing all of my HS homecoming/prom dresses for the girl's party on the 27<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">th</span>.</li><li>Try not to get so worked up about the election. </li><li>Remind myself that just because someone doesn't see that my way is the right way, it doesn't mean they're a freaking idiot. Control freak? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Yesthankyouverymuch</span>.</li></ol><p>PS, I only discuss politics with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Jota</span> because he can't get rid of me. But if you want my opinion, check out my girl <a href="http://othersuchthings.blogspot.com/">Kiah</a>. She says everything I want to say without getting in a flustered huff. </p>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-67988541154482385522008-08-28T18:54:00.000-07:002008-08-28T19:02:40.284-07:00Yeah, that's great...<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/26/AR2008082600887.html">Yuengling, America's Oldest Brewery</a><br /><br /><br /><br />Now why don't you start shipping west of the Mississippi?Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-23043000705432672552008-08-28T10:12:00.000-07:002008-08-28T10:36:46.866-07:00Reason # 167 why I can't live aloneYou know how they say everyone should experience living on their own once in their life? Not me. I'm no good at being alone. I mean like physically being alone. If left to my own devices, I'd probably become a hermit. A super messy, trashy tv watching, take out eating, wine swilling hermit. <br /><br />Jota has been out of town for two days, and in that time I...<br /><ul><li>Checked the large closet, small closet, and shower 10+ times for crazy men who may have somehow come in through the chained door while I was in the kitchen making dinner.</li><li>Took the trash out for the first time in four months. I almost had to call him to find out where we keep the trash bags.</li><li>Left the recycling in our bin because I have no idea where the big bin is outside. </li><li>Loaded the dishwasher after making dinner. House rule: I cook, you clean. Sweet deal right? Not when it's just me. I'm a messy chef.</li><li>Walked Duff morning and night. Snuggled with Duff morning and night. Stumbled over Duff at the front door while he cried for Jota. Duff is not a one person dog. He's a needy bitch with the ability to drive anyone mad with his incessant need for love. </li><li>Walked to the liquor store to buy tampons, wine, and a pint of Ben and Jerry's. </li><li>Debated calling the cops at 2:00am because the bum kids were smoking pot on the corner. Oh and having dog fights. </li><li>Debated calling Jota at 2:15am because I needed to pee and was afraid to walk to the bathroom "alone". </li><li>Thought up excuses for why I can't bike to a concert at the pier tonight. Winner: "I'm baking for the office in celebration of the holiday weekend."</li><li>Tried on tons of outfits after drinking 1/2 a bottle of Beaujolais, leaving the majority of the clothes strewn around the bedroom. </li></ul><p> Once upon a time, long ago, actually almost five years ago, Byn was thisclose to convincing me to move to Tampa for a few months before Jota and I came to Santa Monica. Girl, thank God you dodged that bullet. </p>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-45786119397424230472008-08-19T11:59:00.000-07:002008-08-19T12:11:57.063-07:00It's Happened!Baby (insert nickname you've been calling him*) Barker is here! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Willam</span> James Barker entered our world Sunday afternoon, surrounded by his parents, grannies, and oh about seven <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">different</span> aunties and uncles. Well, not really aunts and uncles, but all of our friends are so excited to share in little Liam's life. <br /><br />Mommy did a great job, and all of us could not believe she didn't even break a sweat during her 40 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">mins</span> of pushing. Em looked absolutely beautiful, and we can't help but feel a bit bitter that she made it look so easy! OK, maybe I'm speaking for myself. <br /><br />Nick made sure to wear his Manchester United shirt in the delivery room, making sure the first thing Liam saw was his beloved soccer team. Judging by the way the little guy kicks and how long his legs are, I'm betting he'll be an amazing little striker. <br /><br />Sorry for being a bit all over the place, but I'm still in shock that there is an actual BABY in our world. A cute, little, perfect baby. I'm so incredibly proud of his parents, and can't wait to take part in shaping Liam's bright future. <br /><br /><br />* Parker, Beau-Beau, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Doo</span>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-20982288228479097992008-08-08T15:29:00.000-07:002008-08-08T17:25:00.494-07:00Ma Ma I gots the itchies!Now that I'm a big kid who doesn't live with Mommy and Daddy anymore, I've become a bit of a baby. Well, honestly, I've always been a bit of a baby. I guess I never grew out of it.<br /><br /><br />For starters, I have a serious fear of needles. Like, complete, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">inappropriate</span> fear, because really, unless it's a shot in the ass (or elbow) it really doesn't hurt. So ridiculous is my fear that I found it absolutely necessary to tell my new doctor in Santa Monica that if I was going to get blood drawn that I would probably pass out. Well, being the awesome doctor that he is, when I showed up at the blood drawing place, they made a huge show, in front of kids no doubt, "Oh we heard about you. You're the big baby who needs to lie down."<br /><br /><br />Don't get me started on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">girly</span> doctor. I stress myself out so much that I need to take the day off work just to get my annual Pap. Oh, and I've definitely had the doctor ask me to pop two <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">valium</span> before getting there.<br /><br /><br />Right now, I'm fighting a vicious battle with poison oak. At least I think that's what it is. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Wikipedia</span> says that poison ivy doesn't grow in California, Hawaii, or Alaska, and poison sumac doesn't grow west of Idaho. And of course it's true because <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Wikipedia</span> doesn't lie, and everything you find on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">internet</span> is true.*<br /><br /><br />Anyways, I've got this wicked rash all over my left elbow (not to be confused with the keg injured right elbow), as well as my left calf. And PS, it is nasty. Like, can't even handle touching it when I put medicine on it nasty. How did I get said <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">itchies</span> you ask? I have no fucking clue. Did I go hiking? No. Did I come into contact with any type of bush? No, well unless you count the half dead ferns and wild flowers growing by my front door. Still not poison oak.<br /><br /><br />Have you ever looked up home remedies for poison ivy/oak? One is bleach. I thought, "Bleach?! Who is fucking dumb enough to put straight bleach on their skin?"<br /><br /><br />While I'm certainly not dumb enough, I am quite desperate. Thankfully, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Jota</span> got me some fancy stuff called <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Tecnu</span> EXTREME.<br /><br /><br />"Dude, that is so not extreme."<br /><br /><br /><br />Sorry, couldn't help letting that one slip. The stuff is amazing! It has these great little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">scrubbies</span> that allow me 15 seconds of complete and total relief of the itch. Which I need. I hear the ocean helps as well. I guess I know where I will be this weekend.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />* so maybe I'm generalizing a bit.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-42283634853453608482008-07-23T13:58:00.000-07:002008-07-23T14:03:01.186-07:00Holy Crikey!<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">LM</span> is going to spin the last bit of fat off me. Spin is fucking hard. Like my thighs are still quaking, and God only knows what I'm going to feel like tomorrow. On a good note, I am a huge fan of the midday workout! <br /><br />Now if only I'd remembered to keep an extra pair of undies in my bag. Yes, I went there.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-77520658013973265132008-07-23T10:22:00.000-07:002008-07-23T10:30:01.114-07:00Injured Reserves for a MonthRemember the <a href="http://almostalwaysnice.blogspot.com/2008/05/i-iz-trainwreck.html">keg curling incident</a>? Yeah, well when I said my arm was going to hurt all week, I wasn't exaggerating. Except it wasn't a week. It's been two months, and I still can't straighten my elbow without going, "ow, ow, oooowwww!"<br /><br />I finally took myself to the doctor. Of course I didn't tell him I was doing keg curls, because really, I wasn't in the mood for the alcohol talk. Turns out I strained my tendon and bruised the bone. The doc gave me a cortisone shot (owwwie!), as well as some anti-inflammatory meds to take for a week. <br /><br />Oh, and no lifting, yoga, pilates, kickboxing, NOTHING for a month. What am I supposed to do at the gym now other than running and legs? I tried going to an abs class on Monday, only to find myself trying not to cry during several minutes of plank. Going to try out spin today at lunch, so hopefully that works out.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-48017734235524714722008-07-17T08:53:00.000-07:002008-07-17T09:18:38.622-07:00The Dark Knight and KoreatownLast night, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Jota</span> hooked it up, and took me to see an advance screening of The Dark Knight with his work peoples at Universal City Walk. First, City Walk is like The Grove on crack. Tons of restaurants, shopping, and a giant theatre, with an explosion of neon lighting thrown in for effect. Definitely a spot to take the parents to experience a "family friendly Hollywood."<br /><br />Second, The Dark Knight = amazing. Like best movie I've seen in ages. Like totally one that I want to see in the theatre again. I think the last one I did that with was Titanic. Don't judge.<br /><br />Third, Dark Knight in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">IMAX</span> = out of this world. It's like I was in the back seat of the Bat Tank. (That buggy is in no way sleek enough to be called the Bat Mobile.)<br /><br />Fourth, Heath Ledger as the Joker made Jack Nicholson look like an amateur. He was so incredibly disturbing that I found myself trying to hide my face in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Jota's</span> shoulder when he appeared on screen.<br /><br />Fifth, the entire film is quite dark. I may have laughed two or three times, but spent most on the time clinging to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Jota</span> and practically jumping out of my seat.<br /><br />Sixth...oh just go see it on Friday.<br /><br />Afterwards, we headed to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Koreatown</span> with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Jota's</span> coworker Jenny and her boyfriend John. A whole car full of J's. I'd never had Korean food, and to say that I was nervous was a bit of an understatement. The menu wasn't in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">English</span>, so I had to rely on the other J's to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">recommend</span> something for me. I felt so bratty because I rattled of a list of dislikes. No spicy. No mushrooms. No onions. No peppers. No tofu. Pretty much the whole menu. John ended up choosing this dish that came out piping hot with rice, beef, an assortment of veggies, and a raw egg on top. I'm all like, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Ewwww</span>."<br /><br />And he's all like, "Don't worry, when you stir it the egg cooks in the bowl, and the rice gets crispy."<br /><br />Um fuck yeah.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-70273211799937409972008-07-16T09:53:00.000-07:002008-07-16T10:11:12.925-07:00Doggy SittingSo we watch boss lady's dog, a lot. Like, recently, at least once a month. And that doesn't count the times she "forgets" an important meeting/appointment/outing with a client, and, "Jamie, can you just stop by the house on the way home and take her out?"<br /><br />No I am not joking. Yes, I advised her to get a cat instead of a dog considering her travel schedule. <br /><br />So Boo* stayed with us this past weekend. She's just over a year old. Cute little beagle. We've always thought she was kind of dumb. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, maybe not dumb, but a bit slow. She's still not potty trained. Crapped all over my kitchen about an hour after we had just taken her out. Didn't even ask to go outside. This happens every time. We always give her the benefit of the doubt, until she fucks up, and then we start treating her like the ugly stepchild. <br /><br />I want to love Boo. Really I do. I know it's not her fault, but rather boss lady's for not taking the time to give her enough attention and instruction. The fact that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Jota</span> and I were very diligent in training Duff only makes it more frustrating. By 4 months he was ringing a bell to go outside. No accidents in this house. No way. When Boo has accidents, we start at zero...crate training. At least she's good about not whining, and by Monday, I think she was actually understanding the concept of going outside. Too bad all of our work is being undone as I type. <br /><br />* (name has been changed to protect the innocent pooch)Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-11699543162586807372008-07-16T09:33:00.001-07:002008-07-16T09:47:52.587-07:00July's half over...And I've got nothing to show for it. No new goal. Gained 5 lbs. Haven't been to the gym for more than once a week for the past month. Fuck fuck fuck. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Fuckitty</span> fuck fuck. Now that I've got that out of my system. <br /><br />Seriously though, it seems I have no time for anything lately. I'm prepping my little ass off for Em's baby shower, and maybe if I didn't procrastinate in the first place, I wouldn't have to spend 3 hours every night crocheting. I have a freaking cramp in my right wrist, and pinch in my right shoulder, but I'm making the cutest baby blanket around for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">lil</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">doo</span>. <br /><br />I've totally hit a wall with my exercising. I'm not exactly bored with the gym, just kind of not feeling like going. Em and I have decided that we're going to take up tennis once she has the baby. Should be fun, except I seriously stink at tennis. It's like there's a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">permanent</span> hole in my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">racquet</span>. <br /><br />So with this lack of gym of course means I've gained a bit of weight back. Boo. I hates. I swear it's so easy to lose weight when it's not summer time. I wake up on the weekends, and it's beautiful outside, and I'm like. "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Eww</span> sweating. I want to go lay on the beach all day." <br /><br />The majority of our friends' birthdays are also in the summer, so it's like every weekend is spent at a BBQ eating burgers and drinking beers. And I'm sorry, but I'm not going to be that girl at a party that doesn't eat because nothing is healthy enough. Fuck that. If we're grilling, I'm eating. <br /><br />Obviously, I need a new goal. I'm very short term goal focused, and it worked well for me in the past. My new goal for the remainder of July is to get my butt to the gym at least 4 days a week. Not starting this week though because <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Jota</span> and I are going to see The Dark Knight tonight, and then tomorrow I have to bake a cake.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-10313155111405428192008-07-08T19:20:00.000-07:002008-12-08T15:01:45.936-08:00Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SHQbjgk_6WI/AAAAAAAAAHU/0UpPujxAn7U/s1600-h/DSC01394.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SHQbjgk_6WI/AAAAAAAAAHU/0UpPujxAn7U/s200/DSC01394.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220828164883736930" /></a><br />My first recipe out of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Perfect Baking</span> was choosen out of necessity. Necessary because a - oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are my go to cookie and b - it was the only one in the book that didn't require me going to the store for extra ingredients. <div><br /></div><div>Without further ado, here's what they looked like...(I appreciate any tips on photographing food)<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I couldn't resist sharing this one though. Duff looks like he's thinking, "Oh snap! I almost had it."</div><div><br /></div><div>I wasn't a huge fan of the cookie, but others, mainly Liz, really liked them. I found the texture to be a bit too crumbly, they were incredibly dense, and not sweet enough for me. I also substituted cranberries for the semisweet chocolate. Keeping the milk chocolate of course! Will I make them again? Not likely. </div>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-23664907298187321922008-07-07T13:50:00.000-07:002008-07-08T19:00:45.387-07:00Because I'm hungoverYou know the drill. I'm too lazy to do something original today. Snagged this one from little Miss <a href="http://okayyeah.blogspot.com/">Wishcake</a>.<br /><br />What were you doing five years ago?<br /><br />1. I was 22 (a baby!), living at home with the parents.<br /><br />2. Dating an asshole and cheating on him every chance I had.<br /><br />3. Spending the summer flirting like a maniac with Jota even though he had a girlfriend.<br /><br />4. Deciding not to go back to Radford for my final year of school. Greatest decision ever. The not going back there, probably should still consider finishing school.<br /><br />5. Working promotions at 98.7 WMZQ. To this day, best job ever.<br /><br /><br /><br />What are/were five things on your to-do list for today?<br /><br />1. Plan a trip to Vancouver for work that I should have done a month ago.<br /><br />2. Go to the gym! I've gained 5 lbs since my birthday. Bad James.<br /><br />3. Give Duff a bath. Jota is taking him to work one day this week. He was a bit scruffy last time.<br /><br />4. Get rid of my hangover. Hopefully lunch with LM will help.<br /><br />5. Make some tasty banana bread before Jota throws out my nanners.<br /><br /><br /><br />What are five snacks you enjoy?<br /><br />1. Fruit, fruit and more fruit.<br /><br />2. String cheese. Yum!<br /><br />3. <a href="http://www.nabiscoworld.com/100caloriepacks/#/varieties/0/">Chocolate covered pretzel 100 calorie packs.<br /></a><br />4. Greek yogurt with berries.<br /><br />5. BBQ chips.<br /><br /><br /><br />What five things would you do if you were a billionaire?<br /><br />1. Buy one of my dream homes on the Venice Canals. <br /><br />2. Give a considerable amount to all 4 of my parents. And Jota's parents.<br /><br />3. Quit my yuck job and get my dream job. Owning my own bakery.<br /><br />4. Buy my own jet. Fuel prices may be insane, but Duff could fly without having to be crammed under the seat in front of me. And Byn could come visit whenever she wanted.<br /><br />5. Donate massive amounts to my favorite organizations/charities.<br /><br /><br /><br />What are five of your bad habits?<br /><br />1. I procrastinate like a booger. See my to-do list for the day.<br /><br />2. Biting my nails. They're way pretty right now though!<br /><br />3. Smoking cigs when I'm wasted. Sorry babe.<br /><br />4. Getting snotty with Jota when he asks dumb (actually quite normal) questions.<br /><br />5. I shop way too much.<br /><br /><br /><br />What are five places you have lived?<br /><br />1. <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=union+bridge+maryland&ie=UTF8&ll=39.567588,-77.184448&spn=2.887856,4.790039&z=8&iwloc=addr">Union Bridge</a>, Maryland. Born and not really raised. Don't remember anything about this place. <br /><br />2. <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=beallsville+maryland&ie=UTF8&z=13&iwloc=addr">Beallsville</a>, Maryland. Down on the farm. Believe it or not, I really did spend the first 23 years of my life on a farm, and somehow escaped learning how to drive a tractor. I think it had something to do with me driving the motorcycle face first into the barn. <br /><br />3. <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=radford+va&ie=UTF8&z=12&iwloc=addr">Radford</a>, Virginia. Dear God, Please let me never return. Oh and thank you for looking after me, because seriously, no one else was. <br /><br />4. <a href="http://http//maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=santa+monica+ca&ie=UTF8&z=13&iwloc=addr">Santa Monica</a>, California. Our first home! Some girl told us to live west of 26th, and north of the 10. We totally took that to heart, settling 11 blocks from the ocean. Now if I were to give people advice, I would say west of 26th unless you're south of Pico, then you want to be west of Lincoln. Or, just move to Venice. <br /><br />5. <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=venice+ca&ie=UTF8&z=12&iwloc=addr">Venice Beach</a>, California. Our current abode. Our neighbor Camilla describing it perfectly this weekend, "Our building is like Melrose Place. Only you know, more intelligent, and less slutty."<br /><br /><br /><br />What are five jobs you've had?<br /><br />1. Reservationist/Reception at a super posh golf club in town. The 14th hole backs up to the farm and while they were building the course, I had a blast golf carting around the paths. Yes I said golf cart. My parents couldn't trust me with a four wheeler after the barn "incident". I've seen two Presidents and Michael Jordan play golf.<br /><br />2. Office Manager at Bally Total Fitness. Why someone would give this job to a nineteen year old is beyond me, but whatevs. Not really sure what I did exactly other than boss the front desk girls around and flirt with the lifeguards.<br /><br />3. Promotions at MZQ. Picture me at the Toby Keith concert at Nissan Pavilion standing on top of an ice cream truck with a mega phone yelling to 25,000 drunken fans, "Hey! Everyone needs to take three big steps back. Ready? One, two, THOSE STEPS AREN'T BIG ENOUGH, Three." Or the crowd favorite, "Show me your tits and Sean will hook you up." I'm a classy one.<br /><br />4. Nordstrom's during holiday season. I will never work retail again. I did get some sweet deals though.<br /><br />5. Marketing assistant at an un-named sports agency. Pretty fun I guess. Good peeps, which is nice. Oh and I own more T-Mobile magenta clothing than like, anyone.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-33595855511323528612008-06-27T17:44:00.000-07:002008-12-08T15:01:46.627-08:00The night we slept on the beach...oh and my birthday!<div>A bit late, but yes! Seeing as my birthday day fell on a Tuesday this year, I got to spend an entire week celebrating. Not that birthdays are ALL about gifts, but my friends are the greatest! </div><ul><li>Emmy Fro got me a great lavender mask, an appletini fizzy bubble bath, and some delicious smelling lotion from Vicky's.</li></ul><ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWGcozqCZI/AAAAAAAAAGs/n8nOkbRZvnU/s1600-h/IMG_0300.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWGcozqCZI/AAAAAAAAAGs/n8nOkbRZvnU/s200/IMG_0300.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216723569927129490" /></a><br /><li>Boss Lady really surprised me with a gift certificate to <a href="http://www.exhalespa.com/">Exhale Spa</a> in Santa Monica.</li><br /><br /><li>Jota got me a new i-pizzle, complete with arm band for the gym. He also got me a <a href="http://www.t-mobile.com/shop/addons/Accessories/Default.aspx?referrer=selectdevice&categorycode=21&WT.mc_id=promo4cases">condom </a>for my phone. Hopefully it will have a longer life than the last one.</li></ul><ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWGurGsIuI/AAAAAAAAAG0/kBTBmBsrrW8/s1600-h/IMG_0296.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWGurGsIuI/AAAAAAAAAG0/kBTBmBsrrW8/s200/IMG_0296.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216723879781475042" /></a><br /><li>Byn sent me quite possibly the cutest assortment of gifts I've ever received. A cupcake cookbook, a <a href="http://www.candy.org/2008/01/21/grillz-candy/">grillz lollipop</a>, grow my own birthday cake, and the cutest little photo album ever!</li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWHo0N-2uI/AAAAAAAAAG8/xT5FOjh29fk/s1600-h/IMG_0292.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWHo0N-2uI/AAAAAAAAAG8/xT5FOjh29fk/s200/IMG_0292.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216724878660393698" /></a><br /><li>Liz hooked me up with a nice rolling pin. Random you might say, but she remembered hearing me say that I usually use a bottle of wine when rolling out my pizza crust. She also gave me a great baking cookbook. </li><br /><li>Jota's parents sent me beautiful flowers to the office. I loved them! </li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWJBRLp1uI/AAAAAAAAAHE/1nnlhPiDIE4/s1600-h/IMG_0291.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWJBRLp1uI/AAAAAAAAAHE/1nnlhPiDIE4/s200/IMG_0291.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216726398263744226" /></a><p>So yes, my friends are the bestest friends in the entire world. Each one of them totally picked out a part of my personality and ran with it. I truly appreciate each and every one of them. The friends, not the presents. Gosh, I'm not that bratty. </p><p>The best part of my birthday was Saturday, when we raced cars, putt putted, and rock climbed our way through <a href="http://www.mulliganfun.com/">Mulligan's Family Fun Center</a> in Torrance. It was incredibly hot, but absolutely the most fun I've had in ages!</p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGPlGN8TWjI/AAAAAAAAAGc/XVJ_uyGDido/s1600-h/groupshot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216264688409729586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGPlGN8TWjI/AAAAAAAAAGc/XVJ_uyGDido/s200/groupshot.jpg" border="0" /></a><p>On the way home, we stopped by Drew and Liz's for a dip in the pool and some margaritas. And some pina coladas, yum. And some beers. We jetted home in time to shower, and meet Annie and Kevin out for some more beers and fun at Hinano. Jota and I left soon after midnight, stopped by Nick's Market to grab a road beer for the walk to Townhouse, but unfortunately never made it. We did however make it to the beach, only to fall asleep on a towel until about 4:00 in the morning. Oops. </p>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-86157711900891689192008-06-27T17:29:00.000-07:002008-12-08T15:01:46.970-08:00What's in your fridge?<div>A week or so ago, Miss Katelin posted a <a href="http://www.prettysandyfeet.com/2008/06/whats-in-your-trunk.html">"What's in your trunk?"</a> blog. Well, my trunk is pretty boring. Puppy gate from puppy sitting. Box of plastic water bottles that need to be recycled. And that's it. My fridge though, that's interesting. So without further ado...</div><br /><div> </div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWARc2HI4I/AAAAAAAAAGk/PJiW_Ha03HI/s1600-h/IMG_0303.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wReoxxeXxuc/SGWARc2HI4I/AAAAAAAAAGk/PJiW_Ha03HI/s200/IMG_0303.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216716780667872130" /></a><div><ul><li>Some eggy whites, and real eggys too. Plain eggy whites creep me out, so I need a yolk or two in there.</li><li>Earth Balance - Vegan butter. An accidental buy at Trader Joe's but I'm kind of into it. </li><li>I Can't Believe It's Not Butter - For Jota, he's not too sure about the vegan butter. </li><li>Half and Half for the coffee</li><li>Brita Filter, because while I will swim in Venice water, I certainly won't drink it. </li><li>Heart's Desire Meatless Chicken Strips. I'm afraid to try them. </li><li>Edamame hummus from Whole Foods. So good. </li><li>That white tub is my cheese tub. Shredded cheese, gouda cheese, string cheese. I heart all cheese. Except swiss. Nasty. </li><li>Champagne Liz brought over from her and Drew's engagement pizza party. Congrats!</li><li>West Soy Unsweetened Vanilla Soymilk is amazing in my smoothies. </li><li>Bud. Wise. Er. The king of beers. </li><li>Club Soda for VD's nasty vodka beverages. Yes, she also keeps her own bottle of Seagram's in the liquor cabinet. </li><li>Spicy Hot V8 that Ben left after making red beers the other week. </li><li>Jolt Cola. Free from kickball. Unfortunately, no one will drink it. </li></ul><div>So what's in your fridge? Or junk drawer? </div></div>Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37440270.post-74324717587081197932008-06-26T11:52:00.000-07:002008-06-26T11:57:30.668-07:00New Feature...Baking!As you will read in my birthday post (coming up once I add some photos), Liz and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Byn</span> both gave me some great baking cookbooks. I plan to try one recipe per week, posting my photos, critiques, and of course mistakes here. Of course I won't post the actual recipe, but I'll let you know the titles in case you'd like to play along. <br /><br />So <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Jota</span>...you better get to band practice! Or maybe I can bake on the day you have soccer, and you can have band practice the next day? That way you can take some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">yummies</span> for the boys. Then we can call you The Cupcakes, or The Cupcake Effect...or something like that.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11531947266709724364noreply@blogger.com3