Wow!
I cannot believe she did this. I mean everyone hates to lose but HELLO there's a camera on you.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Questions for the Game of Life
I was trying to think about something to post about since it's been a couple of days. I don't want to post about the election because I'm afraid I'll curse it. I didn't do anything terribly exciting today or the day before that. I'm currently watching On Golden Pond. Needless to say, current events is not an option.
Then I remembered these "If..." books I have. They have conversational questions like "What famous person would you have dinner with?" Stuff like that. Nicholas always hates to do them with me so I'm going to make you guys play!!! ;)
Some of them are way too easy for me - basically every answer to any question involving a famous person, dead or alive, will be Oprah.
If you could have a famous person as your parent, who would it be?
Oprah
If you could have any person in history be your boss, who would it be?
Oprah
If you could change places with any celebrity in the world, but have to remain that person forever, who would you be?
Oprah
Others are harder.
If you could be any sign of the zodiac other than your own, what would you want to be?
I don't really know about any other zodiac sign but my own. Wait - I think that's a characteristic of a Leo.
If you had to pick the TV personality you were most in love with as a kid, who would it be?
Whew. Tough call. I remember Don Johnson being my first real celebrity crush. If we're counting adolescence, I had it bad for Jordan Catalano (Jared Leto) - along with about 3000 other 15-year-old Angela Chase wannabe's.
If you could have been present during the inauguration of any past president, whose would it be?
This one is really hard. My first instinct is Abraham Lincoln's second inaugeral. But then again JFK's? or FDR's? Or what about George Washington's? Oh or Thomas Jefferson's? Too tough - can't pick. Impossible.
Well, that's it for now. Feel free to leave your own answers in the comments if you're bored! :)
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
A place to rest your head...
So in all the Halloween excitement I didn't get a chance to post about the other development this weekend. We bought a new mattress!!!
I know I know - this sounds like some joke post about how boring people's blogs about their personal lives can get but seriously! We were sleeping on Nicholas's $175 mattress from law school and now we are sleeping on this. I mean you can only imagine the difference.
Needless to say, we sleep better, longer, and don't wake up with sore backs. Aaaaaaahhhhhhhh........
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Because you just can't get enough of me...
I've created a blog blog. Yes, I know it's confusing. But as most of you know I read a lot of blogs and news sources so I've created a Clip Blog where I link to all the stories I find most interesting, funny, whatever.
So if you need help navigating the exciting world of blogs then consider me your personal guide.
Bookmark it now and get a free coaster set:
http://www.bloglines.com/blog/stewartholland
Monday, October 30, 2006
Happy Halloween!
Well, Nicholas and I had a fabulous Halloween as Fred and Wilma Flintstone. I have decided we are only going to go as couples invovling redhead from here on out so send your suggestions! :)
First, we went a party at Section 2 Headquarters (aka Leslie, Laura, Beefcake and Kevin's house). We had a blast and there were tons of great costume. Leslie and Laura were the iPod commercial so lots of fun with the green screen was had.
Most creative costume would probably go to Dave and Ruth who came as Jeffrey and Laura from Project Runway (see Flickr for pics), although I told Dave he totally missed his chance to wear manpri's. I have to give us best executed though because dang my hair was awesome! And not easy either!
Honorable mentions go to: Dan the Old Man for having Werthers Originals on hand to pass out and Dog the Bounty Hunter which we saw at our next party.
Dishonorable mentions go to: Chickein who came as Steve Irwin and made me super-sad all over again :(
First, we went a party at Section 2 Headquarters (aka Leslie, Laura, Beefcake and Kevin's house). We had a blast and there were tons of great costume. Leslie and Laura were the iPod commercial so lots of fun with the green screen was had.
Most creative costume would probably go to Dave and Ruth who came as Jeffrey and Laura from Project Runway (see Flickr for pics), although I told Dave he totally missed his chance to wear manpri's. I have to give us best executed though because dang my hair was awesome! And not easy either!
Honorable mentions go to: Dan the Old Man for having Werthers Originals on hand to pass out and Dog the Bounty Hunter which we saw at our next party.
Dishonorable mentions go to: Chickein who came as Steve Irwin and made me super-sad all over again :(
Friday, October 27, 2006
Live blogging (sort of): Oprah Town Hall
Right now I am desperately trying to decide if I love Oprah more than I hate Bill O’Reilly. It might be toss up. However, I’ve decided the only way I’m going to make it through this special Town Hall episode of Oprah featuring Bill O’Reilly is do some live blogging so I’m not just screaming at my TV…I’m screaming at you instead!
(Oh and by live blogging I mean not live at all, but rather from my Tivo list so I don’t have to watch commercials.)
4:04: Why did he just start calling “secular progressives” (Bill’s term for everyone he disagrees with) SP’s? Does abbreviating something make it more believable?
4:06: Why is he yelling at her? You’re not supposed to yell at Oprah - remember what happened to Tom Cruise? Luckily there in stools so he can't jump the couch.
4:06: Holy crap! 6 minutes in and we’re already to abortion and parental notification. That was quick. Also he should talk to the parents of girls who have died from back alley abortions because they were too scared to tell their parents.
4:07: Ok right now I love Oprah more and I know why – she asked the fundamental question everyone should ask Bill O’Reilly. “What do you want us to do about this information?” His response: “Hit them.” He doesn’t want us to do anything except be angry and confrontational. Oh yeah and he wants us to buy his books.
4:08: Is he really asserting the negative state of media to the Queen of all Media who is perhaps the most positive influence in entertainment? Intriguing.
4:11: Yeah audience interaction – exciting. Can’t wait till he starts yelling at them…
4:12: …That didn’t take him long
4:13: Billy O’Reilly doesn’t like the words “middle ground.” Knock me over with a freaking feather. Also why does he keep asking me if I want to live in Holland. It seems nice there – they have tulips. And it makes a perfectly wonderful last name.
4:14: I love that his jokes are falling flat! Even Oprah isn't laughing...Also I'm getting a headache from rolling my eyes so much.
4:15: Ok I wouldn't say that you know what's going if you are a Fox News junkie. You know one side of what's going on.
4:16: There are a lot more men in this audience then your average Bra Revolution episode I'll tell you that much.
4:17: I can't believe Oprah isn't stepping in - he's just yelling over this guy.
4:18: There is a nice looking African-American man with dreads supporting O'Reilly. I've become confused.
4:19: Well thank god - apparently there is an abbreviation for the other side. Traditionalists are people who agree with O'Reilly - "T Warriors" Get your t shirts now ladies and gentlemen.
4:23: Ok I'm about to blow everyone's mind - sometimes there are more than 2 sides to an issue. WHOA! I know it's intense. ...Also Bill thinks we were sold the war. Good. Does he accept responsibility for doing some of the selling is the real question?
4:25: Wait he made a formal on air apology. I didn't know that. Ok props for that Bill. See MIDDLE GROUND.
4:26: OK HOLD THE FREAKING PHONE. (Insert my own personal Bill O'Reilly outraged voice here.) DO NOT. DO NOT MENTION George Bush in the same sentence as Abraham Lincoln. Ever! Abraham Lincoln was a genius who was compassionate and empathetic and knew when to say he was wrong. George Bush is NONE of those things. I swear to God if one more person tries to link those two I'm going to hurt somebody.
4:27: Audience member - "We could have chose Iran or Syria or somewhere else to go." OR we could have not attacked anyone. Thoughts? This guy is a disgrace to redheads.
4:28: Don't call MLK a T Warrior. Oprah slap him - NOW!
4:30: He's not polarizing anybody!!!! He's said war 50 times, warrior 36, and fight 15. How is that not polarizing.
4:31: YEAH! ACLU bashing! ...And quickly to NAMBLA and ACLU's representation of them. As a card carrying member of the ACLU, I will have to direct you here and say that it seems that Bill O'Reilly would agree with the ACLU that it is people who must take responsibility for their actions instead of blaming others.
4:32: Sigh...now he's attacking the ACLU for standing up to The Minute Men. Here.
4:36: Never a good thing when we are saying "Why should we give them any type of rights at all?" There's an absolute for ya...Ok the world is gray people. Not black and white. Gray. It's just that simple. That doesn't mean you don't take stands or that nothing is wrong or right. ... Ok see now he's on to torture. Well let me tell you what - according to the Bush administration that is gray. Talking about moral relativism and constantly moving the line of what is acceptable.
4:40: Bill - "I know that I sound like I'm whining." Because you ARE!
4:41: Does he make up this many phrases on his own show? You know Steven Colbert's jokes are starting to make a lot more sense to me all of a sudden!
4:42: Ok Bill obviously doesn't watch Oprah b/c if he did he would know he gets personally attacked every day b/c he personally attacks every day. Oprah lesson #35 (also known as kharma) - what you send out into the universe you get back....Also you are asking Bill O'Reilly how to keep your friends while asserting your views?!? hahahahahahahahahahaha
4:43: Bill isn't as orange as he usually is - see I can say something nice!!!
4:44: WAIT just a second! He just said he wasn't calm on television b/c he's got to get people to watch. Isn't that catering to your audience, which is exactly what he accuses the "left wing media" of doing when they cover celebrities, etc.?!?
4:47: I didn't know David Letterman gave him such crap. I didn't know David Letterman had it in him!
4:48: hahahah This woman just used his baloney back at him! I like it! Maybe I'll start saying baloney...
4:49: I hate this argument. We killed Iraqis so Sadam couldn't kill more Iraqis. Ridiculous! If we cared about the slaughter of women and children, we'd be all over Darfur.
4:54: "I'm not a blame guy." Seriously! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA..."We need to think about it without emotion and ideology." Are you freaking kidding me!?! After explaining to Oprah the two ideologies that are at "war" in our country (SP's and T Warriors for those of you without the accompanying Key), you told her people needed to get angry and fight. But we need to think about it without emotion and ideogoloy huh? If there is a God in heaven, the Daily Show is working on an edited package of this interview right now.
4:55: Iran hates Cleveland? I wasn't aware.
4:58: Culture Warriors wear pretty blue windbreakers apparently. I'm rushing out to get mine right now!
----------------
Whew that was fun. I need a nap now.
Oh and I definitely love Oprah more than I hate Bill O'Reilly. I actually don't hate Bill O'Reilly - Although I do wish he was back on Inside Edition where he belongs - I just think he complains about the media when a) he IS the freaking media and b) he does the same thing he complains about. The media isn't perfect. They sell conflict and confrontation because of a lot of reasons (ratings, time and resource constraints, their own biases) but SO DOES BILL O'REILLY. So stop acting like you are helping the country and doing us all some great service. Because you are not.
Now Oprah on the otherhand... well that's another post ;)
Dog Bed - Money well-spent
Is this how parents feel when they buy their kids expensive clothes and they prefer the box the toy came in?
Why IS Dane Cook famous?
This picture is funny for two reasons:
First, because my husband is very very sweet and listening to the TV through ear phones so I could study. Unfortunately the cord was a little short. hehehehe (Hence, the rude hand gesture)
Second, he is desperately trying to figure out why Dane Cook is famous. He kept saying with exasperation. "But Sarah he filled an arena!"
First, because my husband is very very sweet and listening to the TV through ear phones so I could study. Unfortunately the cord was a little short. hehehehe (Hence, the rude hand gesture)
Second, he is desperately trying to figure out why Dane Cook is famous. He kept saying with exasperation. "But Sarah he filled an arena!"
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
New York, New York
Nicholas and I had the most wonderful time in New York this weekend. We left early Saturday morning and took the Acela into the city (for free! - thank you Amtrak rewards). We had a little trouble getting our bearings at first. We went to the wrong Comfort Inn Midtown because apparently there are two. Then we went to the Upper West Side when we really wanted to be in the Upper East Side. Once we got it all sorted out though we had a great lunch at Le Pain Quotidien. It's this little French cafe chain in New York. Everything is fresh and organic and you eat at big wooden communal tables. Pretty fabulous. Next, I went to Linda's Bra Salon for the best bra service I have ever had. Seriously, I felt like I was on the special bra revolution episode of Oprah. I left with two new Chantelle bras that fit perfectly and am super excited. (Probably about as excited as Nicholas was waiting for me in Linda's "trying to not look like a perv.") We walked around and shopped a little bit more after that. It's really not fair how even chains in New York are better. Isn't it bad enough they have all around better stores? Do they also have to have better selection at the stores we all have?
Anyway, that night we went to dinner at Bar Americain, one of Bobbie Flay's restaurants. It was absolutely fantastic. The best oysters I have ever had. I usually eat them with crackers and cocktail sauce but these were so goods I ate them plain with only the vinegar sauce they had. I also had souffle for the first time, which was divine.
After dinner, we went to see The Color Purple - the real reason for our visit. My good friend Laura's cousin co-wrote the lyrics and music and we were able to sit in her house seats. Absolutely amazing. I love the book (of course), love the film (of course). It's such an amazing story and beloved by so many people. I was a little worried about it being a musical, because it's not the most upbeat story. However, all my expectations were met, if not exceeded. The music is so powerful. It really is like going to church. All the performers were so amazing and the energy was overwhelming. Needless to say, I was crying by the end.
After the play, we took a pedicab back to the hotel through Times Square, which was a blast. We continued our toursity transportation the next day with a carriage ride through Central Park. The leaves are really starting to change and it was crisp and cold. A perfect moment... minus the horse smell of course. ;) Then we went to brunch at this little cafe on First Ave and to the Met for the afternoon. I have never been to The Met before and it was a little overwhelming but I really really enjoyed the Vollard exhibit. Vollard was basically the most important art dealer in history. He discovered Cezanne, Van Gough, Picasso, and Gaugin. Not a bad track record I'd say.
We went for a late lunch at a place called Eat near the Met, which is basically Madison Ave. Needless to say, the people watching is pretty out of control. I saw at least 12 strollers and all but one was Bugaboo. Unfortunately, our beautiful weekend came to an end after that and we headed back home.
Of course, I have to give a big thank you to my friend Laura not only for the tickets but for basically planning our entire weekend. There is a stark difference between when I visited New York before Laura and after. She writes up page long emails giving us several options for every meal before we leave. THEN is basically our on call New York guide all weekend. I will literally text her our location and what we are in the mood for and minutes later I have recommendations that NEVER (and I mean never) fails. She recommended every place we ate this weekend (and Linda's) and they were all fantastic. Of course she's pretty fantastic herself so I don't know why I'm surprised ;) And if that wasn't enough she and her boyfriend Daniel took care of Maggie while we were gone...And no you can't have her email - make your own big city friend!
Monday, October 23, 2006
Skidboot the Dog
| If you don't cry watching this, then go to a doctor quick because you dn't have a heart. | |
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Innovative = Ugly
Stupid Jeffrey won stupid Project Runway and I am never watching that stupid show ever again...
ok cleansing breath...
Let me start over.
I have never been obsessed wtih Project Runway. My friends all loved it but I didn't start watching till this season. I realized why I have avoided it for so long. I used to say I love fashion but now I realize I love clothes. I kind of hate fashion.
I love the power of a good outfit. I love a woman's face when she gets a really good make over. I love watching What Not To Wear (BBC version of course!) and seeing the way a woman's entire of opinion of herself can change because she puts on a pair of pants that flatter her body. It is impossible and exhausting as a woman to try to keep up with the picture of how you are "supposed" to look like. However, when you finally realize that you might never be able to wear skinny jeans (the name alone says it all) or cap sleeves but you can seriously rock a wrap dress or deep V sweater, you can truly be set free. Seriously, the day I got rid of all my capri pants is one of the best days of my life!
Fashion is not about any of those things. I hate fashion because so much of it is complete bullshit. Don't get me wrong - there is real artistry out there. I mean this is art. Period. But the skeleton models and absurd fashion and even more absurd personalities can all be too much. And it has almost nothing to do with real women. I mean no one would wear the sweater by Jeffrey (shown above). No one. Even Uli's collection, who the judges praised as wearable by "every woman," featured beautiful clothes that can be worn by a select few. I said several times "Gorgeous but no one with boobs could wear that." Or "Fabulous but only for the very very skinny."
I mean how reflective is it that the winner of the competition failed miserably at the challenge involving "real" women from the designers' lives. Not only did he make a truly ugly piece of clothing but he made the woman cry in the process. Please.
Auf Wiedersehen Project Runway!
Calling Trinny and Susannah!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Welcome to the World!
I started this post to welcome my stepfather Jolly Ron to the blogosphere. He just started his very own blog and I'm very proud of him. Now, everybody go check it a lot so he feels pressure to post! ;)Anyway, I started to post that welcome message BUT THEN I got a brand new nephew this morning. So welcome to the world William! He was born this morning at 8am. He weighs 8lbs 6oz and is 19.75 inches long. The picture above is from his big brother's first birthday on SATURDAY! That's right my brother and sister-in-law have a one-year-old and a one-day-old. Send them money or any extra nannies you have lying around.
UPDATE: Yeah we've got some pictures!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Taboo
Tonight my friend's hosted a game night. The night began with all the boys playing poker and all the girls (+ Nicholas) playing Pop Culture Trivia Pursuit DVD Edition. As more money was lost, everyone started drifting into the room with us and we decided to play Taboo.
It was a pretty rowdy game. My team ended up kicking some major butt and I have to say it was primarily because my dear friend Laura Israel and I are pretty much share the same brain. Case in point:
Me: Madonna gave one of these to Oprah
Laura: WATCH!
Seriously, no hesitation - no other guesses. Amazing.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Writing it all down...
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about my Editor-in-Chief column from college. Specifically, I've been thinking about the column I wrote before the invasion of Iraq when I wrote these words: "Make no mistake; a war on Iraq will create more resentment towards the United States. We may take down one enemy but we will create many many more." (Don't worry Dad this isn't going to become a rant about the war! Because seriously when they are talking about it on Oprah I think I'd be beating a dead horse) ;)
So I pulled out the disk with my old college stuff on it in order to find that column and ended up reading all of my columns from that year. They range in topics from the Dixie Chicks (and one infamous comment in particular) to great places to go in Lexington. They made me realize how much I still miss Transy and how I really miss writing those columns.
They also made me realize how much I've changed since I graduated three years ago. Throughout the columns I speak passionately about feminism, equality, and justice. I made pleas for more activism on campus and talked about the beauty and promise of ideas.
Jeez, what a schmuck!
Kidding of course! But only sort of - my idealism and passion really hit me hard, mainly because I'm afraid they are fading. I don't talk about the beauty of ideas anymore. I talk about poll numbers and elections and (God help me) last week's episode of Meet the Press. Maybe it's true what they say - law school really does suck out your soul or DC is the seventh ring of hell or (gulp) my mother was right and I'll "see" when I get older. I don't know.
I hope that I can maintain my passion and hope. I'm still the same little girl who listened to her PaPa talk about politicians and how good ones stuck up for the working man. But now I know sticking up for the working man is never as simple as one vote or one election. I'm still the bright-eyed college freshman who realized other women felt the same way she did and that they called it feminism. But now I know feminism is only a small piece of the puzzle, not the puzzle itself. I still admire the radicalism of Gandhi, King, and Friedan. But now I am in awe of the political genius of Abraham Lincoln and FDR.
I hope I can balance my idealistic past with my pragmatic future. I hope I don't become completely cynical and apathetic. I hope don't forget where I came from and where I have always planned on going. I hope. I hope. I hope.
Whew...now that I've got that off my chest, back to sappy dog video and decorating disasters. ;)
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Maggie's Third "Gotcha'" Day
We got Maggie three years ago today, and well...the song says it all.
Maggie Movie on Vimeo
Friday, October 06, 2006
I meet Tucker Carlson and it goes just fine
Yesterday, my friend Rachel and I went to lunch at this really great sushi restuarant in a really swanky part of town. As we were walking up the sidewalk, I looked up and straight into the eyes of none other than Tucker Carlson, the conservative pundit/ballroom dancing star. Of course, I was a little caught off guard and started to giggle to myself. I asked Rachel if she had noticed him and she said she'd missed him.Despite her inability to confirm, I knew it was Tucker. Sure, there was no bow tie (according to wikipedia, he stopped wearing them this year). But he looks EXACTLY like you think he would. Not taller, not shorter, not thinner or fatter. He looked just like...well Tucker Carlson.
For those of you know that me well, I'm not so good at the star gazing (believe me when I say I hesitate to call Tucker a star but he WAS on Dancing with the Stars so I guess that's good enough). I am however a genius at star talking. I just can't stand to let an exchange with the famous or infamous go by. "I talked to Bill Clinton today" is so much more exciting then "I saw Bill Clinton today." ANYWAY, I couldn't stand it so as Tucker was walking up the stairs into where ever he was going I yelled out "Tucker! You were great on Dancing with the Stars!" (not actually true he was awful but whatever) He looked over and did a little "Ole!" move and laughed.
So, this is proof positive that I can interact in a friendly and pleasant manner with conservatives. I know this will make all my conservative family members very proud. ;)
Monday, October 02, 2006
This weekend?
Oh thank you so much for asking I had a wonderful weekend! Well you know I had that black tie dinner at the Italiam Embassy on Friday night, which was fabulous.
hehehehehehehehehehehe
I've always wanted to say that! I actually did have a black tie dinner at the Italian Embassy and it was pretty fantastic. The law school had a dinner for all the big donors at the school and they invite "student leaders." I actually only got to go because another student leader couldn't make it - apparently the president of the WCL Democrats doesn't get an invitaiton in her own right. Whatever.
The Embassy is really modern, both the exterior and interior. It has a beautiful open lobby decorated in primary couches. Lots of Italian leather and hot Italian security guards. The food was delicious and I might have had an unreasonable number of Bellinis. I also left loaded down with freebies including one the rose centerpiece, a bottle of wine, and a little gold picture frame. All in all a wonderful evening.
hehehehehehehehehehehe
I've always wanted to say that! I actually did have a black tie dinner at the Italian Embassy and it was pretty fantastic. The law school had a dinner for all the big donors at the school and they invite "student leaders." I actually only got to go because another student leader couldn't make it - apparently the president of the WCL Democrats doesn't get an invitaiton in her own right. Whatever.
The Embassy is really modern, both the exterior and interior. It has a beautiful open lobby decorated in primary couches. Lots of Italian leather and hot Italian security guards. The food was delicious and I might have had an unreasonable number of Bellinis. I also left loaded down with freebies including one the rose centerpiece, a bottle of wine, and a little gold picture frame. All in all a wonderful evening.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Together, America can do better...
Yesterday, I got a great opportunity to go to the DNC's Women's Leadership Forum's Conference. WLF is primarily a fundraising council but the conference focused on all types of activism and organizing. The day started with some truly fantastic speakers including Congresswomen Wasserman Schultz and Congresswomen Moore. Moore was particularly engaging and really really funny. At one point, she informed us she had to hurry back to the Hill so she could continue "the important work of saving the country one post office at a time." HA! I love it and it rings particularly true for anyone who has gone to the House or Senate floor to see the "debate" (I use that world very loosely).
Next, there was a really informative panel on the mid-term elections with an editor for the Cook Report and a leading Democratic pollster. Obviously, they can't say 100% but it looks as long as Democrats don't drop the ball we might actually take the house. Then, Congressman Jack Murtha and Congresswomen Jane Harmen led a panel on national security that was at once terrifying and hopeful...well it would be if these people could get in a position of power to actually make a difference.
Of course the real highlight of the day was lunch with a keynote speech by Senator Clinton. No big surprise that I am a huge fan. This was the first time I have seen her speak and I was really impressed. I was particularly impressed by the fact that at the end of her speech that was focused on fundraising she spoke very frankly about the fact she hates that this is how it has to be. However, nothing will change unless we win and we can't win when Republicans are outspending us 5 to 1 so there you go.
The rest of the day was spent on trainings. We learned about the tools offered on the DNC's websites and an effective fundraising ask. All of this was really exciting but one of the best parts of the day for me was being able to network and get advice on my future pursuits. I was able to talk to one women in particular who offered some really excellent advice on how to get onto the presidential campaign. Basically, I might have to spend some time in Iowa - woohooo!
Although the thought of working that hard and being away from Nicholas is daunting, I have dreamed my whole life of being a part of a presidential campaign (mainly as the president but hey we all start somewhere!). I can't think of anything more exciting. I've had a pretty stressful week and have taken a lot of flack from people about not taking the bar after graduation. It's really hard breaking away from the corporate law path everyone takes in law school, especially when they all have jobs lined up. But yesterday reminded me the most difficult path is often the most rewarding and being secure and safe aren't the most important things in life - following your dreams is.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Bedroom
I'm finally posting pictures of our apartment - one room at a time that is. Our bedroom is as completed as it's going to get for awhile. Our living room is another story all together so don't hold your breath for pictures of that. :)
Here's the inspiration for our bedroom:
Here's our actual bedroom:
Not bad huh? I think I should be on Double Take.
There are more pictures on Flickr for those interested.
Friday, September 08, 2006
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...
Yesterday afternoon, as I was taking my precious dog to the vet, I noticed an interesting development in my little neighborhood of Cleveland Park. Our local theater, the Uptown, was surrounded by media and barricades and (dare I say it) RED CARPET! Apparently the new Kevin Costner/Ashton Kutcher vehicle The Guardian was premiering a block from my house.
As most of you know I am a celebrity whore of the highest level, so you can only imagine my excitement. I immediately called my good friend and neighbor Laura Israel and left an urgent message to call me ASAP. When I exclaimed, "The Guardian is premiering! We have to go see!" she thought I had lost my mind not only because I wanted to see The Guardian but I apparently had to see it opening night. As soon as I explained, it wasn't opening it was premiering complete with red carpet and celebs galore she was in.
We waited right by the sign-in table for about 30 minutes when the "talent" started to arrive. First, Sela Ward came looking really beautiful. We waved and told her we loved her dress. She was very sweet and told us thank you. Next, Michael Rady who we recognized but couldn't figure out from were. Luckily, Laura is a walking imdb.com and exclaimed "Kostas!" from Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (which we know you have all seen so don't try to deny). Finally around 6:35, the headliner... Kevin Costner.
He pulled out right in front of us but immediatley crossed the street to greet fans lined up there. He then came back towards us. Maggie was with us adn I asked him if he would pet my dog. He flashed his trademark smile (pictured above) and shook his head. I forgive him though. First, because he looked really really good (as did his Barbie doll wife) and second, because Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is one of my favorite movies of all time.
The best part was Michael Chertoff, the head of Homeland Security, pulled up right behind him and had to hang out while Kevin worked the crowd. Then he got out and hobbnobbed a bit. So glad he's hard at work keeping us all safe, getting people in LA some damn trailers already, and then of course kicking it with Costner.
Finally, right before the movie was supposed to start at 7pm, Ashton showed up with Demi. I have to say he is terribly cute and she looks freaking amazing. We didn't get to have any exchanges with the power couple beyond a couple of waves but exciting just the same.
Overall, it was all terribly thrilling. How many times is there a world premiere of a big Hollywood picture a block from your house? Reason number 3 million I'm glad we moved ;)
As most of you know I am a celebrity whore of the highest level, so you can only imagine my excitement. I immediately called my good friend and neighbor Laura Israel and left an urgent message to call me ASAP. When I exclaimed, "The Guardian is premiering! We have to go see!" she thought I had lost my mind not only because I wanted to see The Guardian but I apparently had to see it opening night. As soon as I explained, it wasn't opening it was premiering complete with red carpet and celebs galore she was in.
We waited right by the sign-in table for about 30 minutes when the "talent" started to arrive. First, Sela Ward came looking really beautiful. We waved and told her we loved her dress. She was very sweet and told us thank you. Next, Michael Rady who we recognized but couldn't figure out from were. Luckily, Laura is a walking imdb.com and exclaimed "Kostas!" from Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (which we know you have all seen so don't try to deny). Finally around 6:35, the headliner... Kevin Costner.
He pulled out right in front of us but immediatley crossed the street to greet fans lined up there. He then came back towards us. Maggie was with us adn I asked him if he would pet my dog. He flashed his trademark smile (pictured above) and shook his head. I forgive him though. First, because he looked really really good (as did his Barbie doll wife) and second, because Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is one of my favorite movies of all time.
The best part was Michael Chertoff, the head of Homeland Security, pulled up right behind him and had to hang out while Kevin worked the crowd. Then he got out and hobbnobbed a bit. So glad he's hard at work keeping us all safe, getting people in LA some damn trailers already, and then of course kicking it with Costner.
Finally, right before the movie was supposed to start at 7pm, Ashton showed up with Demi. I have to say he is terribly cute and she looks freaking amazing. We didn't get to have any exchanges with the power couple beyond a couple of waves but exciting just the same.
Overall, it was all terribly thrilling. How many times is there a world premiere of a big Hollywood picture a block from your house? Reason number 3 million I'm glad we moved ;)
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Steve Irwin
Nicholas woke me up Monday morning with the heartbreaking news that Steve Irwin had been killed. For those of you who don't know, I loved Steve Irwin. Seriously loved. I got really into his show during college. I watched it all the time. I saw the movie. I had a Crocodile Hunter action figure. My friends Mike and Smith and I even dressed up as Steve, Terri Irwin, and a crocodile one year for Halloween.
He was so sincere. I never doubted his dedication to animals and I admired so much that he fought for the animals no one else loved. Anyone can love pandas or giraffes but he stood up for the animals that weren't cut or fuzzy and could kill you. More than that, I responded so much to his passion. In a world full of Paris Hilton or Tom Cruise, he had no alterior motives. He did what he did because he believed in it. We need more people like that and it is so sad that we lost such a great one.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Decorating Disasters
In my travels, there have been several times I've come across decorating choices so extreme, so absurd that there is nothing left to do but take a picture and show your friends. After coming across a recent "spectacular" tile job, I decided to collect my most recent discoveries in a post ...because wow.
Exhibit A: London England
Seriously what is the point in hanging a curton rod on the front of a curtain valance. The logic escapes me.
Exhibit B: Charleston, SC
This was a ceiling treatment in a house we stayed in Charleston, SC. The joke all week was the ceiling's close resemblence to a certain part of the female anatomy ;) Of course, this was only one of the offensive choices in this house. Pamela called it the paint reject house because all the colors looked like the person had gone and bought the paint on sale because other people rejected it.
Exhibit C: Washington, DC
My friend Leslie's landlord was forced to redo the bathroom because of plumping problems and decided to just retile what was necessary. I definitely don't think he's planning reselling anytime soon. I mean how would you explain that. "We ran out of plain white tiles?" Although my friend Laura pointed out you could say you were redoing it in the lovely pink tile. :)
Conclusion: People are insane.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
SURPRISE!
This weekend Nicholas and I traveled to California to surprise my dad for his 50th birthday. We got in Friday afternoon and met up with my friend Haley. We ate Sprinkles cupcakes and had sushi at Koi...really did the whole scene. We had a total blast.
Saturday morning we rode with my cousins Corey and Michael to Bakersfield. When my dad got back from playing golf, my aunt told him she had an early birthday present for him. I was soooo nervous waiting for her to call us out! I have no idea why. But we all came out singing Happy Birthday. Corey and Michael came first so he would think they were the present and then I came around the corner. His face was absolutely priceless. He made a perfect O face like the Screamer painting. He was completely stunned. That moment alone was worth the entire trip.
Little did he know the surprises were just beginning. He had planned a big dinner at Macaroni Grill but we got the restaurant in on the whole plan. They kept making us wait and wait for a table. The even told my dad that our waitress got in a car wreck! He took it hook, line and sinker. It was so hilarious. Finally, his friend Warren said my aunt Sheree was sick and we needed to get back to the house. Well, my dad took off with no explanation.
When we got back his big surprise party was waiting with a very special guest. One of his best friends who he had not seen in 10 years had flown from Atlanta to surprise him. Again the perfect O face this time followed by "You guys are going to give me a heart attack!" It was so wonderful as was the rest of the night, including (if I do say so myself) the video I made for him, which I will post later on.
The weekend was a total success and we had such a wonderful time with all of my family. It felt really great to do something for my dad because he has always been so generous with me.
Saturday morning we rode with my cousins Corey and Michael to Bakersfield. When my dad got back from playing golf, my aunt told him she had an early birthday present for him. I was soooo nervous waiting for her to call us out! I have no idea why. But we all came out singing Happy Birthday. Corey and Michael came first so he would think they were the present and then I came around the corner. His face was absolutely priceless. He made a perfect O face like the Screamer painting. He was completely stunned. That moment alone was worth the entire trip.
Little did he know the surprises were just beginning. He had planned a big dinner at Macaroni Grill but we got the restaurant in on the whole plan. They kept making us wait and wait for a table. The even told my dad that our waitress got in a car wreck! He took it hook, line and sinker. It was so hilarious. Finally, his friend Warren said my aunt Sheree was sick and we needed to get back to the house. Well, my dad took off with no explanation.
When we got back his big surprise party was waiting with a very special guest. One of his best friends who he had not seen in 10 years had flown from Atlanta to surprise him. Again the perfect O face this time followed by "You guys are going to give me a heart attack!" It was so wonderful as was the rest of the night, including (if I do say so myself) the video I made for him, which I will post later on.
The weekend was a total success and we had such a wonderful time with all of my family. It felt really great to do something for my dad because he has always been so generous with me.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Back to School
So I started school yesterday. On Monday, I had Race, Crime, & Politics, which I think is going to be a really interesting class. Our grade is based primarily on fake legislative hearing where we have to testify about a certain reform. I think it will be a really cool experience. Today, I had American Political Process and Legislation. I'm really excited about Legislation in particular but both should be good. I'm taking Lawyer Bargaining on Fridays and The Politics of Mass Communication at the School of Government on Wednesdays. Overall, its a really cool schedule, involving almost no "real" law classes which is good since I don't want to be a "real" lawyer.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Let's go to the movies!
In less than a week, Nicholas and I managed to see the best movie and the worst movie we've seen this year. Let's start with the good.
Little Miss Sunshine. Seriously ya'll I cannot say enough good things about this movie. It was absolutely wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I did both at the same time. The characters were complex. You hated them one minute and loved them the next. I won't even get started on the actors themselves - who were truly superb. The movie was about family, its disfunction but its overall important. It was so beautiful and sincere I found myself missing my own family very very much. So in other words stop what you are doing and go see this movie immediately.
Now on to the bad...
Step Up. So here's the thing. I have a weakness for dancing flicks. I've grown out of the romantic comedies and teen girl movies of my youth but give me a dance sequence and a cheesy love story and I am there! Maybe it was growing up on Dirty Dancing, I don't know but I am powerless in the face of it. Step Up looked like the best kind of dancing flick. Good girl meets boy from wrong side of the track. Plus, I loved the whole classically trained v. street style bit - it's so The Cutting Edge.
Alas, Step Up turned out to be a complete piece of crap and a great example of why truly great dancing flicks are so rare. It turns out being able to dance AND act not so easy. These kids could definitely dance but wow. They. Could. Not. Act. It was painful. Really truly painful. So painful we were laughing at really inappropriate times - like when one of the characters got shot. Because it was just that bad. It really makes you appreciate the John Travolta's and Patrick Swayze's of the world I'll tell you that much.
But none of that matters now and let me tell you why...
Because ...
tonight ...
I am going to see ...
SNAKES ON A MOTHERF*$&ING PLANE!!!!!!
Monday, August 14, 2006
Fripp Trip
(Our internet is officially working! YEAH!!!!)
Two weeks ago, I traveled to Kentucky to drive with my girlfriends Erin and Elizabeth (we picked up Aimee in NC) to Fripp Island, SC. Elizabeth's parents own a beautiful home there and generously agreed to let us stay there for a week. We went twice when we were in college and have fond memories of long nights on the screened-in porch playing Phase 10 and drinking Arbor Mist.
We recreated those memories pretty closely. Only we spent less time on the porch and more time on the beach because it was stinking hot. We played Phase 10, Rummikub, and Trivia Pursuit. However, I prefer not to talk about because my luck was crap and I lost miserably every time.
There isn't much on Fripp so we ate at home most night. Elizabeth and Aimee made us an assortment of delicious meals including pasta and seafood, salmon patties, and burgers. I even contributed a small sampling of my baking mastery with a banana macadamia nut cheesecake.
We stuck pretty close to a strict schedule of sleeping till 10:30, doing jack shit inside for a while, and going to the beach from 2 till we were hungry and went in for dinner. It was pretty awesome.
The most exciting moment came on Wednesday. We decided to go out in the water in some floats and drift in with the tide. Erin and Elizabeth were on an innertube and I was on a pool float. However, Aimee just had a noodle and noticed that we were in fact being pulled out instead of drifting in. Since the rest of us were high up, we really couldn't feel it and thought Aimee was just being paranoid. Elizabeth and Erin decided to jump down and realized Aimee was in fact right. Of course, I am too smart for that and continued to play on my raft while they waved at me. Before I knew it, I was a good 40 feet from them and the shore. I promptly started freaking out and wondering why I didn't bring my lifeguard husband with me.
I tried letting the wave float me in and digging in against the undertow because I could touch. As you might suspect, that was not working so well. Now, I'm really starting to freak out. At this point, Erin swims out to me because she is the most amazing friend in the entire world and disregarded her own safety and Elizabeth's warnings because she knew I needed her. Once she was with me I calmed down and we gradually worked our way in.
Turns out, you are supposed to swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the rip tide. Of course that is good to know now but would have been better to know then. Luckily, alls well that ends well and I made it in to blog another day.
Anyway, besides Erin saving my life, it was a pretty low key girls' vacation. Fun was had by all. I love those girls with all my heart and can't imagine a better way to spend a vacation.
Two weeks ago, I traveled to Kentucky to drive with my girlfriends Erin and Elizabeth (we picked up Aimee in NC) to Fripp Island, SC. Elizabeth's parents own a beautiful home there and generously agreed to let us stay there for a week. We went twice when we were in college and have fond memories of long nights on the screened-in porch playing Phase 10 and drinking Arbor Mist.
We recreated those memories pretty closely. Only we spent less time on the porch and more time on the beach because it was stinking hot. We played Phase 10, Rummikub, and Trivia Pursuit. However, I prefer not to talk about because my luck was crap and I lost miserably every time.
There isn't much on Fripp so we ate at home most night. Elizabeth and Aimee made us an assortment of delicious meals including pasta and seafood, salmon patties, and burgers. I even contributed a small sampling of my baking mastery with a banana macadamia nut cheesecake.
We stuck pretty close to a strict schedule of sleeping till 10:30, doing jack shit inside for a while, and going to the beach from 2 till we were hungry and went in for dinner. It was pretty awesome.
The most exciting moment came on Wednesday. We decided to go out in the water in some floats and drift in with the tide. Erin and Elizabeth were on an innertube and I was on a pool float. However, Aimee just had a noodle and noticed that we were in fact being pulled out instead of drifting in. Since the rest of us were high up, we really couldn't feel it and thought Aimee was just being paranoid. Elizabeth and Erin decided to jump down and realized Aimee was in fact right. Of course, I am too smart for that and continued to play on my raft while they waved at me. Before I knew it, I was a good 40 feet from them and the shore. I promptly started freaking out and wondering why I didn't bring my lifeguard husband with me.
I tried letting the wave float me in and digging in against the undertow because I could touch. As you might suspect, that was not working so well. Now, I'm really starting to freak out. At this point, Erin swims out to me because she is the most amazing friend in the entire world and disregarded her own safety and Elizabeth's warnings because she knew I needed her. Once she was with me I calmed down and we gradually worked our way in.
Turns out, you are supposed to swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the rip tide. Of course that is good to know now but would have been better to know then. Luckily, alls well that ends well and I made it in to blog another day.
Anyway, besides Erin saving my life, it was a pretty low key girls' vacation. Fun was had by all. I love those girls with all my heart and can't imagine a better way to spend a vacation.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Accidents and Accusations
This post is dedicated to Jessica Lotz, The Dixie Chicks #1 fan. :)
So from the file of "Things we did several weeks that I haven't posted about yet"... For my birthday, Nicholas and I took the train to Philly to see The Dixie Chicks on July 25. I was going to be out of town when they came to D.C. so we made a night out of it and cashed in some Marriott Rewards Points.
For those of you who don't already know, I am a huge Chicks fan. I was hooked from their debut single "I Can Love You Better" released my junior year of high school and have been a devoted fan every since. I buy all their CDs the day they come out and have seen them in concert three times. Of course, my devotion has only intensified since they've taken a more political turn. However, what I have always respected the most about them is their talent and clear passion for music. Between them I think they play something like 15 instruments and they wrote or co-wrote every song on their new album, which critics acknowledge as their best yet.
Compared to the other two times I've seen them, this concert was more stripped down and focused on the music. There were no tricks or videos but there were six musicians joining them on stage. The sound really was awesome.
The most intense moment of the show came when they performed their new song "Not Ready to Make Nice," which is about the controversy surrounding Natalie's 2003 comment about Bush. (If you don't know what she said by now, I'm not telling you.) There is a strong crescendo in the song when she is singing about the death threats she received. Her energy and the crowds energy in response was so intense I got chills. I've never before felt emotion like that at a show. I must not have been the only one because there was thunderous applause for a solid 3-5 minutes after the song.
All in all, it was a great night. We even got to meet my good friend Reagan while in Philly. She's a complete trip and it's always nice to visit with her.
So from the file of "Things we did several weeks that I haven't posted about yet"... For my birthday, Nicholas and I took the train to Philly to see The Dixie Chicks on July 25. I was going to be out of town when they came to D.C. so we made a night out of it and cashed in some Marriott Rewards Points.
For those of you who don't already know, I am a huge Chicks fan. I was hooked from their debut single "I Can Love You Better" released my junior year of high school and have been a devoted fan every since. I buy all their CDs the day they come out and have seen them in concert three times. Of course, my devotion has only intensified since they've taken a more political turn. However, what I have always respected the most about them is their talent and clear passion for music. Between them I think they play something like 15 instruments and they wrote or co-wrote every song on their new album, which critics acknowledge as their best yet.
Compared to the other two times I've seen them, this concert was more stripped down and focused on the music. There were no tricks or videos but there were six musicians joining them on stage. The sound really was awesome.
The most intense moment of the show came when they performed their new song "Not Ready to Make Nice," which is about the controversy surrounding Natalie's 2003 comment about Bush. (If you don't know what she said by now, I'm not telling you.) There is a strong crescendo in the song when she is singing about the death threats she received. Her energy and the crowds energy in response was so intense I got chills. I've never before felt emotion like that at a show. I must not have been the only one because there was thunderous applause for a solid 3-5 minutes after the song.
All in all, it was a great night. We even got to meet my good friend Reagan while in Philly. She's a complete trip and it's always nice to visit with her.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
So we bought a condo
Sarah and Nicholas: Adventures in Real Estate on Vimeo
As many of you know, we bought a condo in Cleveland Park last month. We haven't posted since the offical closing because I was waiting for the above video from our real estate agent. It's all ready for viewing now so enjoy. It was an exciting moment for us followed my a lot of painting, more moving, and even more unpacking.
After several weeks, things are finally coming together. I still have a lot of decorating/nesting to do and not suprisingly I exhausted my decorating budget pretty quickly but there you go. As excited as Nicholas was the new drapes and side tables, I think our new TV is where his passion lies. He just keeps saying "This TV is so nice." Like it belongs to somebody else or something. I honestly don't know what was harder for him laying down the case for the condo or for the TV.
But here we are, all of you can now go to your mailbox and wait excitedly for our adorable change of address cards coming out soon!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Friday, July 28, 2006
Friday, July 21, 2006
Upon request...
One of our regular readers has requested a caption contest. We'll take submissions over the next couple days and post the winner. OH and keep it clean people my father reads this site ;)
P.S. I've turned off the membership requirement so anyone can post.
*********************************************
AND THE WINNER IS:
Sarah: "I'm a Republican."
Submitted by Jessica.
P.S. I've turned off the membership requirement so anyone can post.
*********************************************
AND THE WINNER IS:
Sarah: "I'm a Republican."
Submitted by Jessica.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
A complete set.
From left to right:
Me (obviously)
Ginger (Benjamin's wife)
Jennifer (Geoffrey's wife)
Christina (Christopher's wife)
We should have stood in birth order. Btw, Jennifer AND Christina are both pregnant. Crazy.
Me (obviously)
Ginger (Benjamin's wife)
Jennifer (Geoffrey's wife)
Christina (Christopher's wife)
We should have stood in birth order. Btw, Jennifer AND Christina are both pregnant. Crazy.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
The bride wore ivory BUT Sarah wore a hat!
We spent the weekend in Mount Pleasant, SC celebrating the marriage of Nicholas's youngest brother Benjamin to his college sweetheart Ginger.
We arrived on Saturday morning and ate some yummy low country seafood. The rehearsal dinner was that night and was really a lovely evening, followed by a late night filled with conversation at Holland Headquarters.
The wedding was Sunday evening at Alhambra Hall on the water. The plan was to have the ceremony outside and the reception in the hall. However, it rained in the afternoon basically creating a 100 degree sauna so all the festivities were moved inside. The ceremony was beautiful and Ginger looked amazing. Fun was had by all - especially me because I got to play the true Southern girl and wear a hat to the wedding. It was a hit and I had a blast wearing it. You can see the hat and why I love my father-in-law (who took it) in the picture above.
We arrived on Saturday morning and ate some yummy low country seafood. The rehearsal dinner was that night and was really a lovely evening, followed by a late night filled with conversation at Holland Headquarters.
The wedding was Sunday evening at Alhambra Hall on the water. The plan was to have the ceremony outside and the reception in the hall. However, it rained in the afternoon basically creating a 100 degree sauna so all the festivities were moved inside. The ceremony was beautiful and Ginger looked amazing. Fun was had by all - especially me because I got to play the true Southern girl and wear a hat to the wedding. It was a hit and I had a blast wearing it. You can see the hat and why I love my father-in-law (who took it) in the picture above.
Friday, July 14, 2006
For those of you who really want to know who I'm working for and what this campaign is about, there is an amazing documentary (it's only about 15 minutes) done by a local TV show linked below.
Raskin Documentary
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Going on down to South Park...
Seriously though, I make a really cute South Park character. Although, I'm relatively sure I would be best friends with Wendy and Bebe and they would be super-jealous because all the boys would love me best. ;)
You can make your own at http://www.sp-studio.de/.
You can make your own at http://www.sp-studio.de/.
"You want another answer, ask another girl"
I might have watched Working Girl four times in the last three days. I caught it on the WE channel Sunday night when Nicholas was working late. I was really excited because I haven't seen it from the beginning in a long time (or ever for that matter). I've always liked it but for some reason now I can't stop watching it. It's just so inspiring with the Carly Simon song (she won an Oscar for that song you know), so fabulously tacky with all the 80's wear, and I really love the two decade old PCs. Also, I think I'm developing a girl crush on Melanie Griffith (in this movie, not now, now she is scary).
Nicholas thinks I'm crazy and I'm sneaking it in when he's away. It's really sad. He's threatening to delete it off the Tivo "by accident." I would be devastated.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Third time's the charm
Let's try this again! We are on our way (again) to owning our very own home/condo. They've accepted our offer and we close on Sunday, the 21st. Most importantly, we have received the condo documents and read with our very own eyes (after asking the listing agent 5 times) that they allow dogs. YEAH!
This place is very different from the last one but we really love it. It's in Cleveland Park but only about a half a block from the metro. It's about 50 square feet smaller but needs absolutely no work. Best of all, it has a fireplace, which I am super-excited about. Pictures on flickr of course.
Overall, we are both really happy but holding off on the champagne until we have the keys in hand.
This place is very different from the last one but we really love it. It's in Cleveland Park but only about a half a block from the metro. It's about 50 square feet smaller but needs absolutely no work. Best of all, it has a fireplace, which I am super-excited about. Pictures on flickr of course.
Overall, we are both really happy but holding off on the champagne until we have the keys in hand.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Aloha!
Well, we've been back from Maui for a week now and we both still look at each other every once in awhile and whine "Let's go back!" In fact, we've decided to make our next vacation less spectacular as to make reacclimation to real life less difficult.
Needless to say, we had a fantastic time. Lots of beach. LOTS of fish - both seen and eaten. I learned to surf (video to come soon) and we survived the road to Hana. We went to a wonderful Luau and tried poi. We bought Tikis and Huli Huli sauce and escaped with only minor sunburns.
We owe a big mahalo (thank you) to my parents who provided the shelter and several meals. They were great travel companions and allowed me to play the role of tour group leader. The trip was like a really wonderful dream and we came back less pale and less stressed.
Needless to say, we had a fantastic time. Lots of beach. LOTS of fish - both seen and eaten. I learned to surf (video to come soon) and we survived the road to Hana. We went to a wonderful Luau and tried poi. We bought Tikis and Huli Huli sauce and escaped with only minor sunburns.
We owe a big mahalo (thank you) to my parents who provided the shelter and several meals. They were great travel companions and allowed me to play the role of tour group leader. The trip was like a really wonderful dream and we came back less pale and less stressed.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Misadventures in Real Estate
So yeah...remember that great condo that we found that was big, cheap, and near the metro? Remember how we thought it was too good to be true? Turns out - it was! Late on Monday night, Nicholas was reviewing the condo docs when he came to their pet policy, which pretty clearly prohibits dogs. As many of you know, we in fact have a dog and while sometimes she barks at nothing in the middle of the night and eats entire bags of semisweet chocolate chips we plan on keeping her around for awhile.
Need less to say, we are no longer buying that condo. I have to say it was pretty devastating. I had already decorated the entire thing in my head and even bought some furniture. Nicholas was looking forward to his 5 minute walk to work. Having it all jerked out from underneath us as we were approaching the finish line was quite a blow. However, it could have been much much worse. Our contract had a provision that allows us to pull out for any reason during the three days we review the condo docs so we won't lose any money. More importantly, we have the most amazing landlord in the entire world who assures us we can stay as long as we want, renting week to week, despite the fact he had other tenants lined up. So we won't end up on the street which is good.
We are now back to square one and looking at apartments again. It didn't take us very long to find this one - so I keep telling myself another perfect one (maybe even better!) is out there. So send us good real estate thoughts!
Monday, June 12, 2006
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Sunday, June 04, 2006
So we're buying a condo
Sarah and I finally got up the courage to invest in the crazy DC real esate market and we think we did pretty well. We close on a one bedroom/one bath condo on June 27th. The condo is an end unit and is 724 sq. ft., which is actually a nice size based on what we've seen at the price. Maggie will actually get to see the sun during the day and I get a bigger (though slightly dated) kitchen. There are a couple of pictures on flickr for those interested
Unfortunately, we no longer have an extra bedroom, which means that the next sibling that is displaced by a natural disaster may not be able to live with us, but we plan on having some way to accomodate people who come into town for a few days (we're looking at futons, etc.). IKEA, West Elm, and Target are fast becoming our most-visited websites. We plan on moving in at the beginning of July, about 5 days after we come home from Hawaii (we're really great planners that way). Get excited!!!
Unfortunately, we no longer have an extra bedroom, which means that the next sibling that is displaced by a natural disaster may not be able to live with us, but we plan on having some way to accomodate people who come into town for a few days (we're looking at futons, etc.). IKEA, West Elm, and Target are fast becoming our most-visited websites. We plan on moving in at the beginning of July, about 5 days after we come home from Hawaii (we're really great planners that way). Get excited!!!
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
SCHOOL'S OUT FOR SUMMER!!!
I am now officially a 3L. My friends and I did a pretty solid job of celebrating our new status a couple Saturdays ago as evidenced in the new flicker uploads. Since then I have settled into my new summer scheduled, which is pretty much wide open.
I have recently been crowned Deputy Communications Director by the campaign although I can also be found helping with events, volunteers, and administration. So far its been famine or feast with me either working hours on end or with nothing to do for hours on end.
I'm also working on journal as I am the only member of the editorial staff without a 9 to 5. I continue volunteering for Friends of Hillary and am doing some babysitting for a famous DC blogger who shall remain nameless (and by nameless I mean call me and I'll tell you).
In addition, Nicholas and I are currently looking to buy a condo in Dupont which is at least a part-time job. In some ways I feel hopeful because we've found several we were willing to put offers on and one we actually did. In other ways I feel discouraged because after a month nothing has worked out. But I love our real estate agent and am tired of renting so onward and upward.
My open schedule will also work well for the multiple vacations I have planned including a trip to Hawaii for my mother's 50th birthday, Charleston for another Holland wedding, and Fripp Island, South Carolina for vaca with the girlfriends.
All in all I think it will be a fun, if not a bit crazy, summer...
I have recently been crowned Deputy Communications Director by the campaign although I can also be found helping with events, volunteers, and administration. So far its been famine or feast with me either working hours on end or with nothing to do for hours on end.
I'm also working on journal as I am the only member of the editorial staff without a 9 to 5. I continue volunteering for Friends of Hillary and am doing some babysitting for a famous DC blogger who shall remain nameless (and by nameless I mean call me and I'll tell you).
In addition, Nicholas and I are currently looking to buy a condo in Dupont which is at least a part-time job. In some ways I feel hopeful because we've found several we were willing to put offers on and one we actually did. In other ways I feel discouraged because after a month nothing has worked out. But I love our real estate agent and am tired of renting so onward and upward.
My open schedule will also work well for the multiple vacations I have planned including a trip to Hawaii for my mother's 50th birthday, Charleston for another Holland wedding, and Fripp Island, South Carolina for vaca with the girlfriends.
All in all I think it will be a fun, if not a bit crazy, summer...
Friday, May 12, 2006
No...listen all-NATURAL!
Ok so I don't know if ya'll have seen the new 7UP commercials but they are great. I caught one today when I was watching TV live - which is a rare occasion let me tell you. They tout 7UP's new NATURAL ingredients and for a half second I felt terribly conflicted. You see I feel pretty strongly that 7UP/Sprite is a cure for anything that could possible be wrong with you at any possible moment. Headache? Try some 7UP. Stomach hurt? Sprite! Seriously, how the Dad in My Big Fat Greek Wedding felt about Windex is how I feel about that drink. BUT recently I decided to stop drinking soda - all soda - for pretty much the same reason I don't eat fast food or shop at Walmart. The temporary benefits (satisfied cravings, cheap prices) are FAR outweighed by the personal costs (fat ass, clogged arteries, going to jail for stabbing the lady in the express lane with 45 items) and societal harms (too many to list).
Wait what was I talking about? Oh yeah the commercial - so I was conflicted and for a split moment I thought "Well if it's all natural then maybe I could continue drinking 7UP?" Yes, I am a fool but not that big of a fool because I went to the website to really see what the natural ingredients were and can I just say...wow.
I kid you not:
Filtered carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, natural citric acid, natural flavors, natural potassium citrate
First of all, high fructose corn syrup is as far from natural as you can get. Second, as far as I can tell they just put the word natural in front of all the rest of the ingredients. Hilarious! While I admire the tenacity, I am now further confirmed in not drinking soda - "natural" or otherwise.
P.S.
Who ever left Jewel on my answering machine is in big trouble!
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
A beautiful NY event
Last night I went to New York with Jamie and Miti Figueredo, another Raskin volunteer, for a fundraiser at the beautiful home of Kitty and Lewis Steel. There apartment is a "pre-war", (Miti says that's a big NY realty term) several thousand square feet, art on every wall masterpiece overlooking Central Park. The only thing better than the apartment was Kitty herself. A former Broadway star and current psychoanalyst Kitty is just completely fabulous. The walls of their home are covered with pictures of her with everyone from Jimmy Durante to Bill Clinton (their son Patrick was his schedule) to Elvis Presley.
Kitty and Lewis were both great hosts for our fundraiser which featured Katrina vanden Heuvel and Hendrik Hertzberg saying really kind and wonderful things about Jamie. The evening was filled great conversation and of course generous contributions.
Much like my trip to Harvard, I was overwhelmed by my environment and the brilliance and passion of those around me. Between the amazing apartment and more amazing people, I had to remind myself to close my mouth on more than one occasion. Luckily, these sophisticated Manhattanites seemed to pretty forgiving of this Kentucky girl's astonishment - of course the accent never hurts! ;)
Kitty and Lewis were both great hosts for our fundraiser which featured Katrina vanden Heuvel and Hendrik Hertzberg saying really kind and wonderful things about Jamie. The evening was filled great conversation and of course generous contributions.
Much like my trip to Harvard, I was overwhelmed by my environment and the brilliance and passion of those around me. Between the amazing apartment and more amazing people, I had to remind myself to close my mouth on more than one occasion. Luckily, these sophisticated Manhattanites seemed to pretty forgiving of this Kentucky girl's astonishment - of course the accent never hurts! ;)
Sunday, May 07, 2006
We have a problem
I have listened to Carrie Underwood's "Jesus Take the Wheel" no fewer than 15 times today. I even have Nicholas singing along. Wait, I guess I should have started with I bought "Jesus Take the Wheel."
Anyway, help me. Someone. Anyone. - I guess I should just let Jesus take the wheel...omg, I can't believe I just said that.
Monday, May 01, 2006
The Class of 2001
This weekend we returned to Transyland for Nicholas's 5th year reunion. We flew into Louisville Saturday morning and rode to Lexington with my college roommate Erin and her boyfriend Seth.
I have to admit it was crazy being back on campus. The second we walked into to Back Lobby the smell about knocked me over and my heart started to race. It wasn't a bad smell - it was just the Transy smell. You forgot details like that and it was so overwhelming to encounter them again.
We took a short tour around campus and took a stroll down memory lane. It's amazing how far we've come in just a couple of years but I have to admit I do miss it (at least parts of it).
Saturday night was T-Day Ball and his reunion reception. We both felt a little underwhelmed by the evening's festivities. Plus, since we haven't gone to either of our high school reunions, it was the first time I've been to a reunion and the energy was pretty intense. Lots of judging and one-upmanship.
On Sunday, we met my big sister Hollie and her new man for breakfast at Ramsey's. I even got in an Ale-8-One!After returning to Louisville, we met Mike and Smith for my favorite Fazoli's! (You'd be surprised how much you miss it.) We left late Sunday night after a quick stop at Grater's - wow this sounds like we went back to be reunited with food not people but I swear that wasn't the case. ;)
I have to admit it was crazy being back on campus. The second we walked into to Back Lobby the smell about knocked me over and my heart started to race. It wasn't a bad smell - it was just the Transy smell. You forgot details like that and it was so overwhelming to encounter them again.
We took a short tour around campus and took a stroll down memory lane. It's amazing how far we've come in just a couple of years but I have to admit I do miss it (at least parts of it).
Saturday night was T-Day Ball and his reunion reception. We both felt a little underwhelmed by the evening's festivities. Plus, since we haven't gone to either of our high school reunions, it was the first time I've been to a reunion and the energy was pretty intense. Lots of judging and one-upmanship.
On Sunday, we met my big sister Hollie and her new man for breakfast at Ramsey's. I even got in an Ale-8-One!After returning to Louisville, we met Mike and Smith for my favorite Fazoli's! (You'd be surprised how much you miss it.) We left late Sunday night after a quick stop at Grater's - wow this sounds like we went back to be reunited with food not people but I swear that wasn't the case. ;)
Friday, April 28, 2006
Ummm...WHOA!!!
What the F happened to Jewel?!? I thought the uber-glamorization in that Intuition video was some cultural statement not a permanent change. I don't want some sex kitten parading as folk singer - I want my used-to-be homeless, crooked teethed, grungy Jewel!!!
Seriously - I might have to return my slightly dogearred copy of A Night Without Armor.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Dear ABC,
Stop splicing together old episodes of Desperate Housewives and Grey's Anatomy into a "Catchup Special" and calling it a new episode. It's not. However, my poor trusting Tivo doesn't know that and records it as if it were a new episode. Then I get all excited when I see it on my list - followed promptly by me getting all pissed off when I realize it is not a new episode at all.
I realize you are saving the new episodes for May Sweeps. But just the same, it's a jerk move and you should stop.
Love,
Sarah
P.S. That What About Brian show is dumb.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Justice Kennedy
Last week, I had the honor of meeting Justice Anthony Kennedy. As I have previously mentioned, Jamie is ridiculously connected so I wasn't too surprised when out of nowhere he asked if I wanted to go with him to the Supreme Court and meet Justice Kennedy. My answer was a resounding yes.
The Justice came in a spoke with us for about a half an hour and was interesting and witty. He talked about the importance of the Court and the changes its gone under recenty. There was a short Q&A and I was allowed to ask him a question. I asked him what he thought was the number one mistake oral advocates make. He responded that lawyers often try to cover up the difficult, weaker points of there case when that is exactly what the Justices want to talk about.
It was really fascinating to see him upclose and personal. You expect Justices to be staid and impersonal but he was very warm and seemed sincerely interested in talking to us. All in all, it was really amazing to get a better understanding of not only a Justice but probably the most powerful Justice on the Court at this point in time.
The Justice came in a spoke with us for about a half an hour and was interesting and witty. He talked about the importance of the Court and the changes its gone under recenty. There was a short Q&A and I was allowed to ask him a question. I asked him what he thought was the number one mistake oral advocates make. He responded that lawyers often try to cover up the difficult, weaker points of there case when that is exactly what the Justices want to talk about.
It was really fascinating to see him upclose and personal. You expect Justices to be staid and impersonal but he was very warm and seemed sincerely interested in talking to us. All in all, it was really amazing to get a better understanding of not only a Justice but probably the most powerful Justice on the Court at this point in time.
Monday, April 10, 2006
A Couple of Things
1. Everyone stop wearing cropped pants. Seriously. Stop it! They are not flattering on anyone. They make tall girls look short and short girls look shorter. I know they are everywhere but try to resist. Try hard.
2. hehehehehehe
3. Oprah today was the most feminist-oriented thing I've seen on national television in a long time! "Women are being exploited." "There is a machine that profits over making women feel small." This is why I love Oprah and why you should too! ;)
4. Everyone can dada!
5. This is for all the lawyers in the crowd - a quote from "Thank You For Smoking"
Son: "Dad, what makes the American government the best government in the world?"
Dad: "Our endless appeals process."
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Law School Prom...and the Party Bus that took us there.
This Saturday night was Barrister's Ball - better known as Law School Prom. My friends and I have a pretty strong philosophy that there are only so many times in your life you get to go to Prom, particularly Proms where you can legally drink, so you might has well make the most of it.
Every year we rent a party bus to take us from one of our houses (aka the preparty) around DC and then park outside Prom, functioning as our own personal VIP room. This year's bus had stripper poles and well what can you say - when the pole calls one must answer. ;) No, we all have to take the Bar someday so we behaved for the most part. I think I can safely say we all had a blast with no major mishaps...oh except the FIGHT on the bus.
That's right my dear friend Leslie who is the originator and organizer of the party bus (she has a spreadsheet people!) got in a fight defending the integrity of our executive coach. A 1L who shall remain nameless (until we figure out her name) got on our bus and when Leslie pointed out that we didn't know her, she didn't pay, and she should leave, proceeded to punch Leslie in the side of the face! Leslie, who is a peaceful girl, pushed her back by the throat. At this point, our friend Chickein interceeded and forced her off the bus. It was wild but to be expected really - jealousy is a sickness. ;)
Every year we rent a party bus to take us from one of our houses (aka the preparty) around DC and then park outside Prom, functioning as our own personal VIP room. This year's bus had stripper poles and well what can you say - when the pole calls one must answer. ;) No, we all have to take the Bar someday so we behaved for the most part. I think I can safely say we all had a blast with no major mishaps...oh except the FIGHT on the bus.
That's right my dear friend Leslie who is the originator and organizer of the party bus (she has a spreadsheet people!) got in a fight defending the integrity of our executive coach. A 1L who shall remain nameless (until we figure out her name) got on our bus and when Leslie pointed out that we didn't know her, she didn't pay, and she should leave, proceeded to punch Leslie in the side of the face! Leslie, who is a peaceful girl, pushed her back by the throat. At this point, our friend Chickein interceeded and forced her off the bus. It was wild but to be expected really - jealousy is a sickness. ;)
Jamie Raskin for State Senate
Recently, Jamie Raskin, a constitutional law professor at my school, announced his candidacy for Maryland State Senate. I have joined his campaign as his personal aide and the campaign's all around go-to-girl. I squeeze in as much work as I can right now and will work full-time this summer.
Jamie is running against Ida Ruben - a 32 year incumbent who is what we call a DINO (Democrat in Name Only). District 20 is particularly liberal so the entire race will be the primary, because the Republicans never run a candidate. Jamie is the candidate you always dream of working for - an incredibly intelligent man full of honor and integrity.
He garnered a large amount of attention recently when he testified before the Maryland State Senate on a gay marriage amendment. When a conservative Senator pointed out that the Bible defined marriage as between a man and a woman, Jamie replied, "Yes but Senator when you took your oath of office you placed your hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution, you didn't place your hand on the Constitution and swear to uphold the Bible."
Check out his campaign website.
Jamie is running against Ida Ruben - a 32 year incumbent who is what we call a DINO (Democrat in Name Only). District 20 is particularly liberal so the entire race will be the primary, because the Republicans never run a candidate. Jamie is the candidate you always dream of working for - an incredibly intelligent man full of honor and integrity.
He garnered a large amount of attention recently when he testified before the Maryland State Senate on a gay marriage amendment. When a conservative Senator pointed out that the Bible defined marriage as between a man and a woman, Jamie replied, "Yes but Senator when you took your oath of office you placed your hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution, you didn't place your hand on the Constitution and swear to uphold the Bible."
Check out his campaign website.
National Democratic Law Students Council
The second weekend of Spring Break I went to Boston (for the first time ever) for the Inaugeral Conference of the newly formed National Democratic Law Students Council at Harvard. It really was an amazing weekend with lots of networking and great sessions on "Running for Office" and Democratic Strategy. It really restored my faith in the party, especially our keynote address by Howard Dean. I made an unsuccessful bid for VP of Campaigns and Elections but in a runoff election. Overall, as silly as this sounds, I left feeling like I'd really broken into the inner circle. When our speakers looked into the audience and said there were future Senators and Governors in the crowd, it wasn't like how they said it in elementary school - they meant it. People encouraged me to run and thought I had some really great ideas. It's funny how being from a Red State lends you instant credibilty. ;)
Nicholas came with me and we fit in as much sight seeing as possible. We even got to see South Boston's (Southie to locals) St. Patrick Day's Parade. Besides their ridiculous public transit system, we really enjoyed ourselves and of course the accents were good for hours of entertainment.
Nicholas came with me and we fit in as much sight seeing as possible. We even got to see South Boston's (Southie to locals) St. Patrick Day's Parade. Besides their ridiculous public transit system, we really enjoyed ourselves and of course the accents were good for hours of entertainment.
Monday, March 13, 2006
London Calling
As promised, I will related some of the details of my very quick, very tiring trip to London.
I arrived Friday night very late and spent several hours convincing myself I was tired. On Saturday, Brad and I went to Portobello Market and had (according to Jamie Oliver) the best fish and chips in all of London at George's. It was in fact pretty fantastic. From street market to super upscale, we stopped off at Fortnum and Mason's where I bought various English foods. When Nicholas asked why I was so excited because the British aren't exactly known for their food, I reminded him that they are masters at anything in a jar (jam, clotted cream, mustards, etc.). He thought this was bloody hilarious, as they say.
On Sunday, we the Tate to Tate ferry to the Tate Modern and had high tea at Brad's private club. Then I went up in the London Eye while Brad went to church. (He described it as charismatic Church of England, which didn't exactly interest me.) We ate dinner at this delightful (and highly recommended - Thanks Laura!) restaurant called Chelsea Kitchen. Monday and Tuesday I was pretty much on my own as Brad was finishing up his semester. On Monday, I went to the National Gallery and just generally explored the city before meeting Brad for some evening Wagamama and Shakespeare . On Tuesday, I took a bus tour to Stonehenge and Bath. Bath, in particular the actual Roman Baths, was incredibly fascinating and strikingly beautiful.
Wednesday, it was back home to American, which consisted of approx. 11 hours of travel.
I arrived Friday night very late and spent several hours convincing myself I was tired. On Saturday, Brad and I went to Portobello Market and had (according to Jamie Oliver) the best fish and chips in all of London at George's. It was in fact pretty fantastic. From street market to super upscale, we stopped off at Fortnum and Mason's where I bought various English foods. When Nicholas asked why I was so excited because the British aren't exactly known for their food, I reminded him that they are masters at anything in a jar (jam, clotted cream, mustards, etc.). He thought this was bloody hilarious, as they say.
On Sunday, we the Tate to Tate ferry to the Tate Modern and had high tea at Brad's private club. Then I went up in the London Eye while Brad went to church. (He described it as charismatic Church of England, which didn't exactly interest me.) We ate dinner at this delightful (and highly recommended - Thanks Laura!) restaurant called Chelsea Kitchen. Monday and Tuesday I was pretty much on my own as Brad was finishing up his semester. On Monday, I went to the National Gallery and just generally explored the city before meeting Brad for some evening Wagamama and Shakespeare . On Tuesday, I took a bus tour to Stonehenge and Bath. Bath, in particular the actual Roman Baths, was incredibly fascinating and strikingly beautiful.
Wednesday, it was back home to American, which consisted of approx. 11 hours of travel.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
THANKS DADDY!
Last December, my 15-year-old brothers both got video iPods for their birthday. I protested because clearly I NEED an video iPod more than them. A couple of weeks later my dad got one and then I just started feeling left out.
So, I pointed out to my father that I was the only Stewart lacking a new video iPod and that my current iPod was acting a little wonky (I might have washed it in the washing machine). He then says those magic words every daughter from 2 to 24 likes to hear "Honey, if you want one I'll get you one." At which point, I jumped around the room because YEAH I'M GETTING A VIDEO iPOD!!!
We decided to send it to Nicholas's office in case no one was at our apartment to sign for it. Nicholas points out that since it's coming under his name to his work it is clearly his iPod. My dad hears him and says those words every son-in-law loves to hear "Tell Nicholas if he really wants one I'll get him one." Anyone who knows Nicholas can guess that his immediate reaction was to scoff and say he did not need a video iPod and he didn't want to burden my father WHICH is why I secretly emailed my dad and said yes he'd love one.
This would be the best story if I was able to keep the secret and it just showed up at his office but alas I have a freaking big mouth. It doesn't matter anyway. All that matters now is that Nicholas and I are constantly rocking it out with our new video iPods and that my dad is like the most generous most wonderful dad ever! (If this doesn't impress you, just ask him about going to a Korn concert with my little brothers!)
So, I pointed out to my father that I was the only Stewart lacking a new video iPod and that my current iPod was acting a little wonky (I might have washed it in the washing machine). He then says those magic words every daughter from 2 to 24 likes to hear "Honey, if you want one I'll get you one." At which point, I jumped around the room because YEAH I'M GETTING A VIDEO iPOD!!!
We decided to send it to Nicholas's office in case no one was at our apartment to sign for it. Nicholas points out that since it's coming under his name to his work it is clearly his iPod. My dad hears him and says those words every son-in-law loves to hear "Tell Nicholas if he really wants one I'll get him one." Anyone who knows Nicholas can guess that his immediate reaction was to scoff and say he did not need a video iPod and he didn't want to burden my father WHICH is why I secretly emailed my dad and said yes he'd love one.
This would be the best story if I was able to keep the secret and it just showed up at his office but alas I have a freaking big mouth. It doesn't matter anyway. All that matters now is that Nicholas and I are constantly rocking it out with our new video iPods and that my dad is like the most generous most wonderful dad ever! (If this doesn't impress you, just ask him about going to a Korn concert with my little brothers!)
Sunday, February 12, 2006
SNOW! SNOW! SNOW!
Ok so overnight the sky opened up and dumped about six inches of snow all over the DC Metro area. And can I just say? It's A-W-E-S-O-M-E!!! I love snow - I even set the alarm so I could get up and play in it before everyone else messed it up. We walked down to the mall and made snow angels and went sleddin'. The best part is we got to go up in the Washington Monument and see the whole city covered in snow. See Flickr for all the pics.
Saturday
The were predictions for a massive snowstorm over the weeknd. However, Saturday proved to be a bit disappointing. Nicholas went to the (very hectic) grocery store in morning and the rest of day we did what the Sweet Potato Queen's call "jack shit"! We watched no fewer five movies and I completed a puzzle, pictured above.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Red Carpet Extravaganza!
My friends Laura (left) and Leslie (middle) threw a red carpet extravaganza to celebrate Laura's birthday. We were instructed to come as our favorite celebrity or a more fabulous version of ourselves. They were Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen complete with boho garb and large cups of coffee. Nicholas and I were more glamorous versions of ourselves. However, also in attendence at the party was TomKat and Courtney Love. We had a blast as you can see from the huge amount of pictures we took posted on flickr.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
WHY!?!
My hard drive crashed - it sucks so hard I can't even tell you. Last night, it started acting slow and freezing. It got progressively worse until Nicholas decided to reinstall my operating system. Then, I called the Apple Helpline and they told me to do all this stuff that made it worse. THEN, I went to the Apple Store and the so-called "geniuses" did all this stuff that made it worse. Finally, they decided to send it off for a new hard drive and it should be back in 3-10 days.
In all honesty, it could be so much worse. We just backed up all my stuff to an external drive. Actually, it's kind of funny because we bought the external drive because my music was taking up so much room. Well, it turns out I didn't really need it because I just accidently been uploading music files in this really large format. So, I converted them back and deleted the big files and I was fine. Luckily, we decided to keep the drive and back up all my documents or else this crash would have been disasterous.
However, it still really sucks because its going to be a couple days without a computer and a couple of hours getting it back to where it used to be once I get one. I guess I'm just paying back bad kharma for bragging about how great Macs are to all my PC using friends. I mean I watch My Name is Earl so you'd think I'd know better. But I'm sure I'll get mine when I have to go beg to all them for last week's class notes.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
A New Year
A new year comes with the requisite resolutions which include but are not limited to posting more on the blog. And I was doing so well last year till December of course when finals happened! Lots has happened since then which I will list because I am a lazy lazy girl.
1. I took two exams and turned in my paper of the semester (bringing the grand total of pages written to 110).
2. I went home to Paducah WAY too early and was bored out of my stinkin' skull.
3. Nicholas had a little accident in which he sprained his hand and seriously messed up his face.
4. I failed my freaking comment which composed over half of the previously mentioned 110 pages. I have a chance to resubmit and am guarenteed I will pass as long as I put in a "good faith" effort. I just hope my definition of good faith is the same as theirs'.
5. Christmas came and went far too quickly. Santa brought me lots of goodies including a new digitial camera, beautiful gold earrings from the hubby, and a bunch of other lovely things. And the Skidmore family created a new pajama party tradition that is here to stay. (See Flickr for pictures)
6. Nicholas and I spent a lovely New Year's evening at home. He made a romantic dinner and we watched the ball drop with Carson Daly (b/c Dick Clark was just too depressing--sorry!).
7. I discovered Sudoku thanks to a well-intentioned stocking stuffer from my mother. I now have significantly less free time.
8. I saw The Chornicles of Narnia (that lion was freaking amazing), The Family Stone (aka tear-jerker masquerading as a comedy), King Kong (poor thing! he just likes the blonde), Rumor Has It (more Shirley McLain!), and after waiting FOREVER the gay cow...I mean Brokeback Mountain which was by far the best movie I've seen in a season full of good movies. Give Heath Ledger his Oscar.
9. Watched approximately 14 of the 16 hours of the Oprah DVD collection while wishing a million times over that I was Gayle King and realizing I don't remember a time in my life when I was NOT watching Oprah.
10. Oh, and Maggie got a haircut (see above).
1. I took two exams and turned in my paper of the semester (bringing the grand total of pages written to 110).
2. I went home to Paducah WAY too early and was bored out of my stinkin' skull.
3. Nicholas had a little accident in which he sprained his hand and seriously messed up his face.
4. I failed my freaking comment which composed over half of the previously mentioned 110 pages. I have a chance to resubmit and am guarenteed I will pass as long as I put in a "good faith" effort. I just hope my definition of good faith is the same as theirs'.
5. Christmas came and went far too quickly. Santa brought me lots of goodies including a new digitial camera, beautiful gold earrings from the hubby, and a bunch of other lovely things. And the Skidmore family created a new pajama party tradition that is here to stay. (See Flickr for pictures)
6. Nicholas and I spent a lovely New Year's evening at home. He made a romantic dinner and we watched the ball drop with Carson Daly (b/c Dick Clark was just too depressing--sorry!).
7. I discovered Sudoku thanks to a well-intentioned stocking stuffer from my mother. I now have significantly less free time.
8. I saw The Chornicles of Narnia (that lion was freaking amazing), The Family Stone (aka tear-jerker masquerading as a comedy), King Kong (poor thing! he just likes the blonde), Rumor Has It (more Shirley McLain!), and after waiting FOREVER the gay cow...I mean Brokeback Mountain which was by far the best movie I've seen in a season full of good movies. Give Heath Ledger his Oscar.
9. Watched approximately 14 of the 16 hours of the Oprah DVD collection while wishing a million times over that I was Gayle King and realizing I don't remember a time in my life when I was NOT watching Oprah.
10. Oh, and Maggie got a haircut (see above).
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