After meeting with our realtor last night and talking about what we need to do to get our house market-ready, we've decided to wait until February to list the house. It would just be too much of a rush to try to get everything painted and staged to have it on the market before the summer cycle ends, and we think we'll have a better chance of selling it for what we want if we wait until the winter dead period passes. That and maybe the economy will improve!
The other huge benefit is that we'll be able to add to our equity and down-payment fund and it will be more likely that we'll be able to find exactly what we're looking for without feeling like we're rushing into things. I like to have a plan, so I'm happy with the course of action we've got planned out at this point.
I think the other aspect of this whole situation that was giving me such great anxiety is that buying a new house in the same metropolitan area is pretty much saying that we're not leaving Cincinnati for a good, long while. That was part of the reason we bought where we did - we thought we'd end up heading east shortly after. We bought in a neighborhood with good re-sale value and bought a house that had attractive features. Had we known that we would end up making this city our super-long-term home (see? I still can't bring myself to say "permanent"), we probably would have waited another year and bought in a different area. I guess that's what happens when you're 23 and a little short-sighted about these things, not realizing how lucky we were to have both found jobs in the area.
I miss the NYC metropolitan area like crazy, and miss my family even more. It makes me tear up just thinking about it. Unfortunately, this is where our home is. We have jobs, friends, and a more reasonable cost of living. Maybe one day we'll make it back out there, but we need to stop wondering when and start enjoying what we're building here.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
From the WTF Files
The Consumerist strikes again!
I've seen plenty of gross ideas, but this one takes "ew" to a whole new level.
Candwich, The Sandwich In A Can
The latest innovation in sandwich technology is the Candwich, the sandwich in a can. The foodstuff is sold inside a 3oz pop-top can and comes in three delicious flavors: PBJ Strawberry, PBJ Grape, and BBQ Chicken. Thankfully, only the first two have candy surprises inside.
Its makers, Mark One Foods, hope to go into production later this year, maybe after its inventor clears up that whole nasty SEC lawsuit that alleges he took investors money intended for real estate investments and put it in canned sandwiches instead.
But rest assured, NYT reports: "The shelf life of a Candwich is excellent, Mr. Kirkland said."
Candwich [Mark One Foods]
Money in the Bank? No, Sandwich in a Can [NYT]
I've seen plenty of gross ideas, but this one takes "ew" to a whole new level.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Friday Fragments
Friday Fragments is brought to you by Mrs4444!
Using remote access to work on my PC when I'm not in my office sucks.
I found myself getting impatient with the interwebs yesterday when it took more than 5 seconds to open a page. Remember back in the day when the interwebs were shiny and new and it took upwards of 30 seconds to open anything? And that was on a good page! I'm so impatient with technology now.
I wonder what our kids are going to grow up like with all of this access to computers and information? I think about how much more I know about how to use technology than my parents and grandparents, and I dread the day when Toddler C's tech skills dwarf my own. (not that being a week away from 75 has stopped my grandma from emailing or texting! she sure knows how to forward those chain letters!)
I hate the NBA. I find it to be the most boring sport around (golf and nascar don't count as sports in my book.). However, I found myself strangely drawn to the LeBron James saga. I was hoping he would stay in Cleveland because I'd like to think that loyalty is still a factor, but the fact that he passed up so much $$ to go play with his friends and have a better shot at winning is kind of nice to see, too. For some reason I think that sounds weird coming from a Yankee fan.
Speaking of the Yankees, they are kicking some ass in the AL East! I can't wait for October.
One week from today I'll be on my way to Jersey! Can't wait for some real pizza and looking forward to introducing my friend to the city that never sleeps.
We're out of spray-on sunscreen so we had to break out the slimy stuff for Charlie this morning. The smell of it always makes me feel like I should be heading to the beach. Sad to live in Ohio :(
Saw an ad for a slap bracelet in the Toys R' Us coupon book we got. I thought those were forever banned!
We're going out to look at some houses and condos on Tuesday. I think seeing what's actually out there will make me feel less anxious about selling our house and buying another one. I just have to keep the idea of a non-suburban existence in my mind :)
Office Quote of The Week!
This one is from Michael, selected in honor of the pint of Ben & Jerry's Phish Food in my freezer from which I will be serving myself a Friday treat tonight.
"I think if I was allergic to dairy I'd kill myself."
Using remote access to work on my PC when I'm not in my office sucks.
I found myself getting impatient with the interwebs yesterday when it took more than 5 seconds to open a page. Remember back in the day when the interwebs were shiny and new and it took upwards of 30 seconds to open anything? And that was on a good page! I'm so impatient with technology now.
I wonder what our kids are going to grow up like with all of this access to computers and information? I think about how much more I know about how to use technology than my parents and grandparents, and I dread the day when Toddler C's tech skills dwarf my own. (not that being a week away from 75 has stopped my grandma from emailing or texting! she sure knows how to forward those chain letters!)
I hate the NBA. I find it to be the most boring sport around (golf and nascar don't count as sports in my book.). However, I found myself strangely drawn to the LeBron James saga. I was hoping he would stay in Cleveland because I'd like to think that loyalty is still a factor, but the fact that he passed up so much $$ to go play with his friends and have a better shot at winning is kind of nice to see, too. For some reason I think that sounds weird coming from a Yankee fan.
Speaking of the Yankees, they are kicking some ass in the AL East! I can't wait for October.
One week from today I'll be on my way to Jersey! Can't wait for some real pizza and looking forward to introducing my friend to the city that never sleeps.
We're out of spray-on sunscreen so we had to break out the slimy stuff for Charlie this morning. The smell of it always makes me feel like I should be heading to the beach. Sad to live in Ohio :(
Saw an ad for a slap bracelet in the Toys R' Us coupon book we got. I thought those were forever banned!
We're going out to look at some houses and condos on Tuesday. I think seeing what's actually out there will make me feel less anxious about selling our house and buying another one. I just have to keep the idea of a non-suburban existence in my mind :)
Office Quote of The Week!
This one is from Michael, selected in honor of the pint of Ben & Jerry's Phish Food in my freezer from which I will be serving myself a Friday treat tonight.
"I think if I was allergic to dairy I'd kill myself."
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Already Overwhelmed
Anxiety sucks. We haven't even met with a realtor yet and I'm already on edge about the whole process. Selling, searching, buying, contracts, mortgages, storage issues, what if we can't find a place we like, where are we going to end up, what are we really hoping to accomplish, can we/should we really do this, all that fun stuff swirling around in there. It's all I can think about.
This is where I get to the point where I decide that it would be easier to just stay where we are. That's what I almost did with my new job. Almost decided that it was too much of a hassle, too much of a risk, too much uncertainty to take the leap. Thanks to two very good friends, I went for it, and I'm so glad I did. So now I know that when I get to this point in a process when anxiety starts to take over, I just have to keep pushing through. Just have to keep in mind that rocking the boat isn't always a bad thing, and there's so much potential for improvement that it would be stupid not to even try. That we've been dying to get out of our suburb since shortly after we got in.
I'm going to call someone today who specializes in downtown and the surrounding areas. I think that if I have someone to talk through our price range and wants/needs in a living space, someone who can tell me if what we're looking for actually exists, then I'll feel a lot better about things.
Sometimes I really miss that few month span of Zoloft. Sigh.
One week until I'm back in Jersey! So excited to see my sister and the city!
This is where I get to the point where I decide that it would be easier to just stay where we are. That's what I almost did with my new job. Almost decided that it was too much of a hassle, too much of a risk, too much uncertainty to take the leap. Thanks to two very good friends, I went for it, and I'm so glad I did. So now I know that when I get to this point in a process when anxiety starts to take over, I just have to keep pushing through. Just have to keep in mind that rocking the boat isn't always a bad thing, and there's so much potential for improvement that it would be stupid not to even try. That we've been dying to get out of our suburb since shortly after we got in.
I'm going to call someone today who specializes in downtown and the surrounding areas. I think that if I have someone to talk through our price range and wants/needs in a living space, someone who can tell me if what we're looking for actually exists, then I'll feel a lot better about things.
Sometimes I really miss that few month span of Zoloft. Sigh.
One week until I'm back in Jersey! So excited to see my sister and the city!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Possible Possibilities
We're meeting with a realtor this week to see about putting our house on the market. I've blogged in the past about how much I miss New Jersey, but that's not where we're headed. Contrary to everything I ever thought I would do, we're interested in moving out of our current home and into another one in the Cincinnati area. I've mentioned this before, so this isn't a new revelation or anything, but super suburban living just isn't for us. We're just not cut out for living in a cul-de-sac. We're not house people. We're definitely not lawn people, everything I plant dies and I don't have the time or patience to keep trying. We don't fit in very well with our neighbors, either - they're the type that mow their lawn multiple times a week and trim their hedges to perfection with a tiny pair of scissors.
I'm more of a "sit on the deck with a beer" kind of girl, I guess. It's also a neighborhood full of church-going conservatives and Milford as a whole is just very, very white. I want some diversity in my 'hood, to be around people who share both similar AND differing worldviews. Somewhere like I grew up.
If you had told me 10 years ago that I would be living out in the 'burbs I would have laughed in your face, but here I am. I crave that semi-urban existence - being able to walk to the grocery store (or even better, Findlay Market or a farmer's market) and walk to restaurants and stroll through the city.
So we're going to put our stereotypical suburban nightmare (which is probably a dream home for plenty of people, especially since we back up into a pretty nice view with no one behind us) on the market, and start looking for a condo in a more urban setting. We're considering downtown Cincinnati, where there's a fantastic revitalization taking place, and some surrounding neighborhoods. We're even **gasp** considering Northern Kentucky. I just have to get past the mental block of living there. Even though the northern border isn't really very Kentucky-ish, the thought of having a Kentucky driver's license makes me feel even further away from my Northeast Corridor roots.
I'm trying not to get too excited about the possible possibilities, but it's hard not to get my hopes up when I'm chomping at the bit to get out of here. We'll have to see what the realtor says about where the market stands and how our house compares.
** WTF was up with death making an appearance in the Paperboy game? And this guy? We always used to wonder if he was breakdancing or trying to take his pants off. **
I'm more of a "sit on the deck with a beer" kind of girl, I guess. It's also a neighborhood full of church-going conservatives and Milford as a whole is just very, very white. I want some diversity in my 'hood, to be around people who share both similar AND differing worldviews. Somewhere like I grew up.
If you had told me 10 years ago that I would be living out in the 'burbs I would have laughed in your face, but here I am. I crave that semi-urban existence - being able to walk to the grocery store (or even better, Findlay Market or a farmer's market) and walk to restaurants and stroll through the city.
So we're going to put our stereotypical suburban nightmare (which is probably a dream home for plenty of people, especially since we back up into a pretty nice view with no one behind us) on the market, and start looking for a condo in a more urban setting. We're considering downtown Cincinnati, where there's a fantastic revitalization taking place, and some surrounding neighborhoods. We're even **gasp** considering Northern Kentucky. I just have to get past the mental block of living there. Even though the northern border isn't really very Kentucky-ish, the thought of having a Kentucky driver's license makes me feel even further away from my Northeast Corridor roots.
I'm trying not to get too excited about the possible possibilities, but it's hard not to get my hopes up when I'm chomping at the bit to get out of here. We'll have to see what the realtor says about where the market stands and how our house compares.
** WTF was up with death making an appearance in the Paperboy game? And this guy? We always used to wonder if he was breakdancing or trying to take his pants off. **
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
From the WTF Files
If The Consumerist is good for anything, it's entertainment.
Who comes up with this stuff? More importantly, who BUYS this stuff? In my market research days I once came across this quote from Norman Douglas: "You can tell the ideals of a nation by its advertisements." It hurts my head to think about what that says about where we are, as a society.
Oh, and I'm choosing to ignore the Ben & Jerry's reference :)
Smooth Down Your Lady Parts With Camelflage Or Camel Ammo
Think of five of your women friends. Pick one of them. Guess what? They've got camel toe. Camel toe is an embarrassing syndrome that affects one in five women annually. Besides the personal discomfort, it carries a social stigma that can lead to feelings of isolation and needs to consume entire pints of Ben & Jerry's. Now there's Camelflage, and Camel Ammo, two innovative products designed to smooth down your lady parts.
Camel Ammo is a flexible insert that can be used on any pair of panties, while Camelflage is an undergarment with the anti-camel technology already built in.
Think of them as Spanx for down there.
Who comes up with this stuff? More importantly, who BUYS this stuff? In my market research days I once came across this quote from Norman Douglas: "You can tell the ideals of a nation by its advertisements." It hurts my head to think about what that says about where we are, as a society.
Oh, and I'm choosing to ignore the Ben & Jerry's reference :)
Friday, July 2, 2010
Friday Fragments
Friday Fragments is brought to you by Mrs4444!
A full month in (as of yesterday) and I'm still loving my job. It's so nice to be in a place that's full of people who are committed to working for the greater good. The political and religious diversity is just an added benefit.
We have a coffee machine at work, and it's a problem. I'm unable to ignore the pull of that constant caffeine. It was easy to turn down in my old office, because the coffee wasn't all that great anyway, but here it's different. It's GOOD coffee. And I've been drinking it. A lot.
Hershey's Milk Chocolate bars have to be one of the grossest candies out there. It's sickeningly sweet and chalky. Yet I eat them anyway, when they're available. I'm such a chocolate whore.
I co-hosted a baby shower last weekend for my old high school BFF. Sometimes it's so hard to believe that we're all grown up and have real jobs and real families. I know I've talked about it before, but seeing her giant belly full of twin girls got me thinking about how much trouble we used to get in together and now we're all responsible and stuff. How un-fun :)
Speaking of baby showers, it seems like the world is conspiring against me when it comes to babies. Everyone and their mother is pregnant right now, even people who probably shouldn't be (yes, I said it, and yes, I'm judgy sometimes). We probably need to decide once and for all whether we'll add a second baby or not. Our minds seem to change on a daily basis. Well, C's, anyway, I have a feeling that I would jump at the chance.
It's July already. How scary is that? The year is already half over. Toddler C is going to be TWO in a month! How the hell did that happen? Expect sappy posts to come soon. The tears are welling up just thinking about it.
Office Quote Time!
Wow, another Dwight quote. This one is in honor of the local(ish) bear attack from earlier in the week.
Rule 17: Don't turn your back on bears, men you have wronged or the dominant Turkey during mating season. There are 40 rules all Shrute boys must learn before the age of 5. [sings] Learn your rules, you better learn your rules. If you don't you'll be eaten in your sleep! Hah!
A full month in (as of yesterday) and I'm still loving my job. It's so nice to be in a place that's full of people who are committed to working for the greater good. The political and religious diversity is just an added benefit.
We have a coffee machine at work, and it's a problem. I'm unable to ignore the pull of that constant caffeine. It was easy to turn down in my old office, because the coffee wasn't all that great anyway, but here it's different. It's GOOD coffee. And I've been drinking it. A lot.
Hershey's Milk Chocolate bars have to be one of the grossest candies out there. It's sickeningly sweet and chalky. Yet I eat them anyway, when they're available. I'm such a chocolate whore.
I co-hosted a baby shower last weekend for my old high school BFF. Sometimes it's so hard to believe that we're all grown up and have real jobs and real families. I know I've talked about it before, but seeing her giant belly full of twin girls got me thinking about how much trouble we used to get in together and now we're all responsible and stuff. How un-fun :)
Speaking of baby showers, it seems like the world is conspiring against me when it comes to babies. Everyone and their mother is pregnant right now, even people who probably shouldn't be (yes, I said it, and yes, I'm judgy sometimes). We probably need to decide once and for all whether we'll add a second baby or not. Our minds seem to change on a daily basis. Well, C's, anyway, I have a feeling that I would jump at the chance.
It's July already. How scary is that? The year is already half over. Toddler C is going to be TWO in a month! How the hell did that happen? Expect sappy posts to come soon. The tears are welling up just thinking about it.
Office Quote Time!
Wow, another Dwight quote. This one is in honor of the local(ish) bear attack from earlier in the week.
Rule 17: Don't turn your back on bears, men you have wronged or the dominant Turkey during mating season. There are 40 rules all Shrute boys must learn before the age of 5. [sings] Learn your rules, you better learn your rules. If you don't you'll be eaten in your sleep! Hah!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Robots in Disguise
Did you know our government is on the brink of developing real Transformers?
True Story. It would be really freaking cool if Optimus Prime wasn't so freaking scary when I was little.
True Story. It would be really freaking cool if Optimus Prime wasn't so freaking scary when I was little.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Harry Potter 7
In case you've somehow missed it. I don't know how I'm going to make it through the summer! The big question now is: IMAX or 3D? Or 3D IMAX? Decisions, decisions.
Monday, June 28, 2010
See These Bags?
These are the signs that I have a toddler. A toddler who decided last night, after nearly 23 months, that rain and thunder were scary. The fact that I can't move my shoulder this morning? Proof that I spent many hours sleeping on the floor next to his crib with my hand on his head (we couldn't both fit very well in the crib and he wouldn't sleep on the floor with me).
Nothing like a shrieking chorus of "rannin! rannin! thunner! thunner!" to wake you from a peaceful slumber just after midnight. Even worse when you look at the clock and realize you have fewer than five hours of sleep left.
Caffeine drip, please. At least the Yankees won last night.
Nothing like a shrieking chorus of "rannin! rannin! thunner! thunner!" to wake you from a peaceful slumber just after midnight. Even worse when you look at the clock and realize you have fewer than five hours of sleep left.
Caffeine drip, please. At least the Yankees won last night.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Friday Fragments
Went for the zoo last night for a wine tasting party. It was the best evening out I've had in a looooong time. Yay for good wine, good food, and good friends!
After the wine tasting we visited our old college bar for a beer. It was fun to sit out on the deck again, reminiscing about how awesome it was to be in college and comparing crappy-apartment stories.
I think that as we get older we underestimate the importance of having close girlfriends. Especially close girlfriends who have kids, and bonus if the husbands get along well, too.
As much as I'd like to move far, far away some day, I like that we have such a great network of friends and that Charlie plays so well with their kids. To this day I'm friends with people I've known since I was a baby, and it's kind of fun to think about whether that could be the case with Charlie, too. We joke about it, but how funny would it be if he's already met his future prom date? She's a very cute little blonde girl :)
We started watching the Harry Potter movies again. We just finished Order of the Phoenix the other night. I can't believe I have to wait until November to see the first part of Deathly Hallows! I can't handle the anticipation. I'm not a very patient person.
We found season 3 of the X-Files on ebay super cheap, so that will have to hold me over.
Baby shower for one of my oldest friends tomorrow! I'm on the Party Planning Committee and it's going to be lots of fun.
Off to Dunkin and then to work! YAY FRIDAY!!
Office quote of the week
This is way back from the season 1 episode about Health Care. Thought it was fitting, given my new job and all, which I am still incredibly excited about :)
"In the wild, there is no healthcare. In the wild healthcare is 'Ow, I hurt my leg. I can't run. A lion eats me, and I'm dead.' Well, I'm not dead. I'm the lion. You're dead."
After the wine tasting we visited our old college bar for a beer. It was fun to sit out on the deck again, reminiscing about how awesome it was to be in college and comparing crappy-apartment stories.
I think that as we get older we underestimate the importance of having close girlfriends. Especially close girlfriends who have kids, and bonus if the husbands get along well, too.
As much as I'd like to move far, far away some day, I like that we have such a great network of friends and that Charlie plays so well with their kids. To this day I'm friends with people I've known since I was a baby, and it's kind of fun to think about whether that could be the case with Charlie, too. We joke about it, but how funny would it be if he's already met his future prom date? She's a very cute little blonde girl :)
We started watching the Harry Potter movies again. We just finished Order of the Phoenix the other night. I can't believe I have to wait until November to see the first part of Deathly Hallows! I can't handle the anticipation. I'm not a very patient person.
We found season 3 of the X-Files on ebay super cheap, so that will have to hold me over.
Baby shower for one of my oldest friends tomorrow! I'm on the Party Planning Committee and it's going to be lots of fun.
Off to Dunkin and then to work! YAY FRIDAY!!
Office quote of the week
This is way back from the season 1 episode about Health Care. Thought it was fitting, given my new job and all, which I am still incredibly excited about :)
"In the wild, there is no healthcare. In the wild healthcare is 'Ow, I hurt my leg. I can't run. A lion eats me, and I'm dead.' Well, I'm not dead. I'm the lion. You're dead."
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
It's Not OK
I've written about weight and body issues before, and it's somewhat of an ongoing issue for me. A recent comment on a mommy message board I frequent regarding the silliness of people complaining about gaining weight while pregnant really bothered me and I wanted to make some thoughts clear on the subject.
It is NEVER ok to say that someone has no right to complain about feeling fat, no matter how skinny they are or how stupid you think they are for complaining about it. While it's true that when I got pregnant I probably weighed less than a large percentage of the population, that doesn't mean that adding on those extra 25-30 pounds didn't have a psychological effect on me. It's an emotional enough time with the hormonal changes, and the physical changes are just the icing on the cake. I think that anyone, regardless of starting weight, is prone to a little bit of mental distress when the numbers start flipping past you. If someone had told me to my face that I had no room to complain about feeling fat and blobby because I just wasn't "that big" I would have shoved my foot up their ass.
Even when it comes to non-pregnant women, it's not your business to tell someone that they aren't allowed to feel fat because they don't meet your definition of the word. We all have our struggles, and you don't know where that person has been - maybe they've struggled with maintaining a healthy weight, maybe they've lost a ton of weight and are afraid of gaining it back, maybe they've managed eating disorders or body image issues and are struggling to find a good place. Or maybe they're just feeling bloated and crappy for some other random reason, like the arrival of their monthly visitor. Either way, no one has the right to invalidate someone's feelings like that. The way we feel about ourselves isn't always rational, and it isn't fair to act as if it is.
It is NEVER ok to say that someone has no right to complain about feeling fat, no matter how skinny they are or how stupid you think they are for complaining about it. While it's true that when I got pregnant I probably weighed less than a large percentage of the population, that doesn't mean that adding on those extra 25-30 pounds didn't have a psychological effect on me. It's an emotional enough time with the hormonal changes, and the physical changes are just the icing on the cake. I think that anyone, regardless of starting weight, is prone to a little bit of mental distress when the numbers start flipping past you. If someone had told me to my face that I had no room to complain about feeling fat and blobby because I just wasn't "that big" I would have shoved my foot up their ass.
Even when it comes to non-pregnant women, it's not your business to tell someone that they aren't allowed to feel fat because they don't meet your definition of the word. We all have our struggles, and you don't know where that person has been - maybe they've struggled with maintaining a healthy weight, maybe they've lost a ton of weight and are afraid of gaining it back, maybe they've managed eating disorders or body image issues and are struggling to find a good place. Or maybe they're just feeling bloated and crappy for some other random reason, like the arrival of their monthly visitor. Either way, no one has the right to invalidate someone's feelings like that. The way we feel about ourselves isn't always rational, and it isn't fair to act as if it is.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Sometimes I Feel Old
My baby sister called last week to tell me that she got engaged! She had to turn away from the phone for a second and I heard her ordering two glasses of champagne. It sounds silly, but that's just such an "adult thing" to do. She just turned 25 on Sunday, and I can't believe how grown up she is. In addition to that, my 16-year-old cousin just got her driver's license. I remember when she was born! It feels like so long ago.
Then of course I heard this song that always makes me all teary, that "I Can Tell that We Are Gonna Be Friends" song, and I started thinking about how Charlie is going to be TWO in a few weeks, and OMFG where did the time go?
Sometimes I can't believe that I'm actually a functioning adult member of society. I remember looking at my parents when they were my age and thinking that they were so old and so grown up. I guess now I know that they really had no idea what they were doing, because none of us really do. I don't feel like I should be an adult, sometimes I feel like I'm just bumbling along pretending to be one. I get dressed in adult clothes and go to an adult job and do adult things like pay bills and own a home. But maybe that's how a lot of people feel?
It's just funny how when you're little you spend so much time wishing that you were older, and once you're older you just want time to slow down. I guess it was just one of those days, when the speed of time and your own mortality are just too much to contemplate.
Then of course I heard this song that always makes me all teary, that "I Can Tell that We Are Gonna Be Friends" song, and I started thinking about how Charlie is going to be TWO in a few weeks, and OMFG where did the time go?
Sometimes I can't believe that I'm actually a functioning adult member of society. I remember looking at my parents when they were my age and thinking that they were so old and so grown up. I guess now I know that they really had no idea what they were doing, because none of us really do. I don't feel like I should be an adult, sometimes I feel like I'm just bumbling along pretending to be one. I get dressed in adult clothes and go to an adult job and do adult things like pay bills and own a home. But maybe that's how a lot of people feel?
It's just funny how when you're little you spend so much time wishing that you were older, and once you're older you just want time to slow down. I guess it was just one of those days, when the speed of time and your own mortality are just too much to contemplate.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Toddler Bed
Charlie had a successful move into his toddler bed last week! Two weekends ago I went in to find him straddling the crib rail, so it was definitely time to move on. It's been just over a full week now and he's doing great. I only found him on the floor once.
I love how he tapped his Yankee sign before he got into bed, the same way that Jeter taps the Joe DiMaggio sign in the tunnel at Yankee Stadium every time he takes the field. Can't you just see the resemblance?
I have a super cute toddler.
I love how he tapped his Yankee sign before he got into bed, the same way that Jeter taps the Joe DiMaggio sign in the tunnel at Yankee Stadium every time he takes the field. Can't you just see the resemblance?
I have a super cute toddler.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Bye Bye Big Butter Jesus
I don't even know where to go with this one! For those of you not familiar with this Cincinnati landmark, a church up the road put up a massive, 60 foot statue of jesus a few years back. Since it's unveiling, parody songs and blogs have sprung up everywhere and people come from all over the country to gawk at Big Butter, or Touchdown, Jesus. True story! When my sister brought her friends to visit from NYC, BBJ was one of the highlights of their trip. People posed in front of it, photoshopped accessories onto it, and came together over the hilarity of it all.
Alas, Jeeebus is no more. It was struck by lighting during a storm last night. An act of god. If there is a god, apparently she thought it was an ugly statue, too. All that remains is a Terminator-like skeleton.
How creepy is that? And so, in tribute to the Jeeebus that once towered over Interstate 75, leaving people wondering WTF is wrong with Cincinnatians, I leave you with one last chorus of Big Butter Jesus. Take it away.
Alas, Jeeebus is no more. It was struck by lighting during a storm last night. An act of god. If there is a god, apparently she thought it was an ugly statue, too. All that remains is a Terminator-like skeleton.
How creepy is that? And so, in tribute to the Jeeebus that once towered over Interstate 75, leaving people wondering WTF is wrong with Cincinnatians, I leave you with one last chorus of Big Butter Jesus. Take it away.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Recipe - Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
Technically this recipe is for chicken or steak fajitas, but sometimes I get lazy and don't feel like rolling out a hundred eight round taco shells, so I make four giant ones and call them quesedillas, instead. Charlie ripped off this fajita spice rub from Steven Raichlen a few years back. While his grilling phase is mostly over at this point, he still mixes up a big jar of this one every so often. We also make our shells from scratch, and this is the recipe that we settled on after quite a few iterations. I can't remember where it came from, but it's written on a 1" x 2" scrap of paper that's paper clipped into my recipe book.
Dry Fajita Rub
1/4 cup paprika
3 tablespoons coarse salt
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried coriander
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix with a fork. Transfer to a jar, cover, and store away from heat and light. The rub will keep for several months. Makes 1 cup.
To make this into a wet rub, add 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce and 3 tablespoons olive oil to the rub and stir to make a thick paste. Spread this mixture on the meat and marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour before grilling (note: we didn't grill the chicken, just cooked it up in a cast-iron skillet. And by "we," I mean "Charlie").
Taco/Fajita/Quesedilla Shells
2 cups AP flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp vegetable oil (I've also used olive oil)
3/4 cups warm milk
Mix the dry ingredients, add the wet ingredients, and rest 20 minutes. This dough is pretty sticky, so you're going to need a lot of flour when you roll them out. One batch will make 8 taco shells or 4 quesedilla shells. Divide dough and roll into flat circles. Cook on a skillet for 30ish seconds on each side.
When we make quesedillas we fill them with the chicken, green peppers, onions, roasted jalapenos, and cheddar and queso cheese. Not swiss. Never swiss cheese. Fill the shells and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is nice and melty.
Dry Fajita Rub
1/4 cup paprika
3 tablespoons coarse salt
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried coriander
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix with a fork. Transfer to a jar, cover, and store away from heat and light. The rub will keep for several months. Makes 1 cup.
To make this into a wet rub, add 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce and 3 tablespoons olive oil to the rub and stir to make a thick paste. Spread this mixture on the meat and marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour before grilling (note: we didn't grill the chicken, just cooked it up in a cast-iron skillet. And by "we," I mean "Charlie").
Taco/Fajita/Quesedilla Shells
2 cups AP flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp vegetable oil (I've also used olive oil)
3/4 cups warm milk
Mix the dry ingredients, add the wet ingredients, and rest 20 minutes. This dough is pretty sticky, so you're going to need a lot of flour when you roll them out. One batch will make 8 taco shells or 4 quesedilla shells. Divide dough and roll into flat circles. Cook on a skillet for 30ish seconds on each side.
When we make quesedillas we fill them with the chicken, green peppers, onions, roasted jalapenos, and cheddar and queso cheese. Not swiss. Never swiss cheese. Fill the shells and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is nice and melty.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Friday Fragments
Friday Fragments is brought to you by Mrs4444! You can visit her blog here.
I'm finally in my new office this week. My job so far has been awesome, awesome, awesome. It's so great to be working on something that I actually care about.
I'm thinking that I might want to go back into teaching again next fall. I'm really starting to miss it. I'm going to ask for one class a quarter at the community college branch and I'd like to propose a class on sociology and health. That or teach Sociology of the Family again. Either way. The sociological part of my brain is still just so amazed at the vintage sexist ads I posted the other day. If you didn't get a chance to see it, go there now. It will make you so happy that you're not stuck in that generation.
Speaking of stereotyping female behavior, last night I was cleaning up the kitchen and Charlie was playing with some spoons. Suddenly things got quiet. You know, that toddler quiet when you just know that nothing good is going on? Well, I turned around to find him drinking water out of the cat bowl. With a spoon. At least he uses a utensil, right? Ew.
Charlie said his first full sentence the other day. "Big truck says 'honk.'" He's talking up a storm these days, unless someone is on the phone wanting to hear it.
Ben & Jerry's have a new flavor called Bonnaroo Buzz. It sounds absofreakinglutely amazing, but it's another one of those "Scoop Shop Only" flavors. Why do all of the good ones have to be 60+ miles away?
Still no pull-ups. They look deceptively easy. I went down to the basement the other day and really thought I would be able to do one. Not so much. Maybe soon, I feel like I'm getting closer.
I have become re-addicted to reruns of The Office. Our local rerun channel just started over at the pilot episode last week. I forgot how awesome those early episodes were and how cheesy the Michael Scott character started out, with the slicked back hair and everything.
One of my favorite quotes from the pilot episode was courtesy of Michael Scott.
People I respect... heroes of mine would be, Bob Hope. Umm, Abraham Lincoln definitely. Bono... and probably God would be the fourth one. And I just think, all those people helped, the world in so many ways that it's umm really beyond words. It's incalcucable.
Oh, and I had somehow forgotten what a hottie Jim was in the early episodes! Not that he's still pretty awesome, but something about younger Jim.... Sigh.
I'm finally in my new office this week. My job so far has been awesome, awesome, awesome. It's so great to be working on something that I actually care about.
I'm thinking that I might want to go back into teaching again next fall. I'm really starting to miss it. I'm going to ask for one class a quarter at the community college branch and I'd like to propose a class on sociology and health. That or teach Sociology of the Family again. Either way. The sociological part of my brain is still just so amazed at the vintage sexist ads I posted the other day. If you didn't get a chance to see it, go there now. It will make you so happy that you're not stuck in that generation.
Speaking of stereotyping female behavior, last night I was cleaning up the kitchen and Charlie was playing with some spoons. Suddenly things got quiet. You know, that toddler quiet when you just know that nothing good is going on? Well, I turned around to find him drinking water out of the cat bowl. With a spoon. At least he uses a utensil, right? Ew.
Charlie said his first full sentence the other day. "Big truck says 'honk.'" He's talking up a storm these days, unless someone is on the phone wanting to hear it.
Ben & Jerry's have a new flavor called Bonnaroo Buzz. It sounds absofreakinglutely amazing, but it's another one of those "Scoop Shop Only" flavors. Why do all of the good ones have to be 60+ miles away?
Still no pull-ups. They look deceptively easy. I went down to the basement the other day and really thought I would be able to do one. Not so much. Maybe soon, I feel like I'm getting closer.
I have become re-addicted to reruns of The Office. Our local rerun channel just started over at the pilot episode last week. I forgot how awesome those early episodes were and how cheesy the Michael Scott character started out, with the slicked back hair and everything.
One of my favorite quotes from the pilot episode was courtesy of Michael Scott.
People I respect... heroes of mine would be, Bob Hope. Umm, Abraham Lincoln definitely. Bono... and probably God would be the fourth one. And I just think, all those people helped, the world in so many ways that it's umm really beyond words. It's incalcucable.
Oh, and I had somehow forgotten what a hottie Jim was in the early episodes! Not that he's still pretty awesome, but something about younger Jim.... Sigh.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Another One for the Archives - Ben & Jerry's Creme Brulee
First of all, where has this dessert been all my life? I guess I've never gravitated toward creme brulee as a dessert option because I've always been much more of a chocolate girl. I tend to choose the most chocolate-filled selection when we're out at a fancy restaurant and ordering dessert. The Pam Sturkey chocolate cheesecake, the Boca chocolate torte, and the dark chocolate and raspberry Melting Pot fondue come to mind, and suddenly I'm drooling at my desk (Incidentally, the fall meal we enjoyed at Boca still remains the best meal I've ever had in my entire life). Last time we went to Boca Charlie ordered the Creme Brulee, while I stuck with my chocolate standby. I had a bite of his dessert and it was all over. Not to worry, the chocolate torte didn't go to waste - it came home with me and served as a lovely breakfast.
Anyway, on to the ice cream.
Sweet Custard Ice Cream with a Caramelized Sugar Swirl: This flavor captures a true "crème brûlée" experience with a custard ice cream recipe & a crunchy caramelized sugar swirl.
I first noticed this flavor a few weeks ago at Whole Foods. I let a few weeks go by before I picked up a pint. You know, P90X and all. It waited patiently in my freezer for a break in my diet. When I finally broke the seal, I was in heaven. Be forewarned: this isn't like the mainstream Ben & Jerry's flavors. There are no chunks to dig out, no hidden nuggets (like Heath bars or cookie dough or fudge chunks) to ferret around for, no mash-up of flavors. That doesn't mean it's boring, though. The caramelized sugar added a pleasant crunch to the custard ice cream. This might be the creamiest Ben & Jerry's flavor I've ever tried. It's rich and flavorful and pretty much everything that an ice cream marketing itself as "Creme Brulee" should be. Even if you're not a fan of the dessert itself, you should try this ice cream. It's pretty much all I can think about while I'm sitting here eating my salad for lunch.
Anyway, on to the ice cream.
Sweet Custard Ice Cream with a Caramelized Sugar Swirl: This flavor captures a true "crème brûlée" experience with a custard ice cream recipe & a crunchy caramelized sugar swirl.
I first noticed this flavor a few weeks ago at Whole Foods. I let a few weeks go by before I picked up a pint. You know, P90X and all. It waited patiently in my freezer for a break in my diet. When I finally broke the seal, I was in heaven. Be forewarned: this isn't like the mainstream Ben & Jerry's flavors. There are no chunks to dig out, no hidden nuggets (like Heath bars or cookie dough or fudge chunks) to ferret around for, no mash-up of flavors. That doesn't mean it's boring, though. The caramelized sugar added a pleasant crunch to the custard ice cream. This might be the creamiest Ben & Jerry's flavor I've ever tried. It's rich and flavorful and pretty much everything that an ice cream marketing itself as "Creme Brulee" should be. Even if you're not a fan of the dessert itself, you should try this ice cream. It's pretty much all I can think about while I'm sitting here eating my salad for lunch.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
P90X 90 Day Pictures!
The much-anticipated 90 day pictures are here! Like the 60 day pictures, I took them in the evening, but I think the pooch was minimized. I'm very happy with my results. Big thanks to Coach Lynn! Visit her blog for all of your health and fitness needs. She's pretty awesome when it comes to all things exercise-related and has been around the blocks of many fitness programs. I owe it all to her :)
(again, you can click on the pictures to enlarge them. this time you'll be amazed by my awesome farmer's tan rather than blinded by total whiteness.)
We started round 2 on Sunday because we'recrazy ready for more. I wish that I had seen more results in my "buttal area," but I think that might be partly due to the fact that we did the Lean version the first time around. This time we're going with the Classic, interspersed with P90X+ DVDs. Can't wait!
(again, you can click on the pictures to enlarge them. this time you'll be amazed by my awesome farmer's tan rather than blinded by total whiteness.)
We started round 2 on Sunday because we're
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
25 Horribly Sexist Vintage Ads
This is a few weeks old by now, but better late then never. Trust me when I say that. It's been sitting in a Firefox tab since May 27th, taunting me because I haven't had a chance to read it.
I'm glad that (for the most part) society no longer views women and mothers like this. Of course there are the sexist exceptions to every rule, and even women who wish that the old bullshit was still status quo, but we've come a long way and I'm thankful that feminism has given us the opportunity to choose our own paths.
25 Horribly Sexist Vintage Ads (via ICanHasInternets)
Click through to see the whole list, but first allow me to share my particular favorites.
Oh, you mean THAT'S why I don't thrive on cooking, cleaning, and dusting? Because I grew up on Lucky Charms and Trix? I'd rather drink my medicine, thank you very much.
Vodka does many things, but helping me cook and clean better isn't one of them. I speak from experience. I may have once cooked a frozen pizza and forgotten to take the cardboard circle off before I put it in the oven.
How do you like your eggs in the morning? Fertilized AND over-easy? In case you can't read the text on this one, it's an advertisement for a medication to relieve morning sickness in pregnant women. Because being pukey and hormonal and carrying your freaking child isn't a good enough excuse for not having the bacon and eggs ready.
Um, do you have any idea what I would do if I woke up on christmas morning to find a freaking VACUUM under my tree? Balls would be the first things to get sucked up, and I don't mean the kind that hang on the tree.
Go check out the rest of them, and marvel in the discovery of a use for Lysol that will make you shudder. I'll never look at it the same way again.
I'm glad that (for the most part) society no longer views women and mothers like this. Of course there are the sexist exceptions to every rule, and even women who wish that the old bullshit was still status quo, but we've come a long way and I'm thankful that feminism has given us the opportunity to choose our own paths.
25 Horribly Sexist Vintage Ads (via ICanHasInternets)
Click through to see the whole list, but first allow me to share my particular favorites.
Oh, you mean THAT'S why I don't thrive on cooking, cleaning, and dusting? Because I grew up on Lucky Charms and Trix? I'd rather drink my medicine, thank you very much.
Vodka does many things, but helping me cook and clean better isn't one of them. I speak from experience. I may have once cooked a frozen pizza and forgotten to take the cardboard circle off before I put it in the oven.
How do you like your eggs in the morning? Fertilized AND over-easy? In case you can't read the text on this one, it's an advertisement for a medication to relieve morning sickness in pregnant women. Because being pukey and hormonal and carrying your freaking child isn't a good enough excuse for not having the bacon and eggs ready.
Um, do you have any idea what I would do if I woke up on christmas morning to find a freaking VACUUM under my tree? Balls would be the first things to get sucked up, and I don't mean the kind that hang on the tree.
Go check out the rest of them, and marvel in the discovery of a use for Lysol that will make you shudder. I'll never look at it the same way again.
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