And a what in the pear tree?

Christmas has come and gone again and I am back in Chicago.

This year was very interesting. At my dad's family party my cousin, who I never, NEVER speak to decided I was her new best friend. Which was cool. But I know she was drunk. Then I was accused of being drunk because I had been a little tipsy last year. I had one glass of wine and two glasses of water. The whole family forgot to include me in the grand kids/grandparents picture. And finally to top the evening off, my grandmother called me a street walker.


You can't beat family fun like that.

Luckily the next day was better.

I am hoping next year that I can be in another country.

Anywhere but here...

I miss Europe.

Desperately.

I miss hostels, and night trains, and kebabs, and river cruises, and getting lost in a country where I don't speak the language.

Chicago can be fun, and the other day I had a "OH, I live in a really cool big city" moment, but it just doesn't make up for the excitement and adventure that is found in discovering a new culture.

Maybe I will NOT sign a new lease and buy a one way ticket to Europe. Who's with me?

Holiday Rant

All day I am subjected to Christmas songs. Which is fine, it is that time of year after all. My only complaint is the song selections. I really dislike some "Christmas classics". For example:

"Little Drummer Boy" Gosh, I find this song so repetitive and boring. It makes me want to bang my head against a wall.

"I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Clause" Why is mommy kissing a fatty? Does she have a fatty fetish?

It doesn't matter who sings these songs, I just can't stand them. Then, of course, there are those "artist" who thought doing a Christmas Album was a good idea. Believe me. It wasn't. Let the Christmas songs be sung by the pros, such as Bing Crosby.

Then of course there are songs, like this one, that I consider classic that we never hear:


*I am so embarrassed, I just realized (24 hours later) that I wrote "I Say Mommy kissing Santa Clause" instead of "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Clause". Well, I guess better late than never!

Two Computers, Twenty Pencils and a Bottle of Whiskey...

I just found a new movie to love. "The Girl in the Cafe" follows the shy, awkward, funny love story of Gena (Kelly MacDonald) and Lawrence (Bill Nighy). They meet in a cafe and spend their first mini holiday at the G8 summit. It is a very intriguing film that looks at how one person can have a major influence in political decisions. There are a few factual mistakes, but the film is so good I really didn't care. Here is a music video someone made on youtube:

I encourage to check out the whole movie which can also be found on youtube.

Oh! I found my Christmas dress!

Tell me it's not true

OMG!

Did you see this?

I think it is a good reason to grab a flight to London right now! We will be guaranteed a good laugh and have an awesome time!

"I can't put my arms down!"

I was prepared for snow. In fact, I was kind of looking forward to it. I love how fresh snow blankets the ground making the world look fresh and hopeful, but no snow here. I hate weather men. They always lie to me!

My apartment is feeling Christmasy:

It's a tiny tree, but happy!!!

Look what I made for my friend Sophie who just had a baby girl:

I was feeling crafty. I hope she likes it!

Check this out!

My mail is being held hostage in the front office again! Why is nobody in the office when I want them to be?

Small Problem

The internet in my apartment isn't working.

So I am forced out to cafes and restaurants with free wifi.

Not entirely a bad thing, but expensive, and it forces me to socialize.

I feel like the universe is trying to reverse my hermit like tendencies.

Oh, and just because it makes me happy:

Just a couple things...

Why is the red line always packed at 11:30pm on Monday nights? It is weird. What are all those people doing on the train at that time?

Why do random people on the train ask me who my historical boyfriend is? I guess it's a good question, one worth thinking about. I have no idea who to choose! Who's your choice?

Why do the cab drivers honk and wave at me? A serious, friendly wave! I am afraid I stared stupidly at the cab thinking "What is wrong with him? I don't know any cab drivers!

Marching in Time

Today is my mom's Birthday. Happy Birthday mom!!!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving!!! Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Tonight I have to work, hopefully it will be calm and quiet. I really prefer to work when it isn't too busy, because when it is busy the crazies tend to come out. Seriously, the crazy people show up from nowhere. I am beginning to think that a psychology degree should be required for all retail employees. That way they can know how to deal with the nuts that are out to shop.

Oh, and the happy news, I will be in MI this weekend! Hurrah! for three day weekends!

One Reel at a Time

Since the last time I posted I have watched the following movies:




Sunshine Cleaning was amusing and good, but not what I thought it would be. In fact I was a little disappointed in it.

New York, New York was terrible. I was really excited for it after reading about it and adding it to my Netflix list but they didn't talk about the abusive relationship between the two leads. I am sorry, I just can't get into films that glamorize bad relationships.

My favorite of the three was the Blindside. It was so good. I can't believe it's a true story. Sandra Bullock was great in the film.

My mom and Aunt came for a visit for the weekend. It was fun. We shopped. I feel like I live in malls and shopping centers, oh wait, I kind of do...

Holiday Homicide

This year I may have to do something I've never done before.

Kill Santa.

I know it sounds drastic, but really I can't stand that jolly little elf who stands on the display table singing "Jingle Bell Rock". If one more person pushes that little toy's button and makes him sing I am going to scream. Not only do I have to deal with crazy people at work, but now I have to deal with customers who are determined to drive me insane.

There is nothing jolly about hearing the same song 5 million times a day.

I love your hair. What's going on there?

So I can't stop watching this:


I know you posted it a few days ago Toi, but I can't stop listening to it!

Is it just me or does she look like Amy Winehouse at the very end? (and on that note I think you should all know that Foxfire spelling check wants me to change Winehouse to Whorehouse)

Life has been pretty uneventful the past few days. Basically, I spend my time at work and try to figure out how I have become "that girl" and to avoid it in the future. Gosh, growing up sucks. When did life become so complicated?

Sorry, Moi, you are probably the only one that got that.

Good news!

My mom and aunt will be visiting next weekend! Yay!!!

P.S. I just re-watched "Mame" with Lucille Ball. Lucy can't sing, but it's a fun movie. Bea Arthur plays her best friend Vera. I want an Aunt just like her.

Sunny Days...

I have a plethora of stories to share.

But right now all I want to say is:

Happy 40th Anniversary Sesame Street!!!!!!


I LOVE this program. When flipping through the channels, I still stop and catch a few minutes with Big Bird and the gang.

Can you tell me how to get to Sesame Street?

Don't eat road kill....

Aussie and I did lunch today.

It was yummy.

I had turtle soup.

It was tasty.

But I feel bad for the turtle...

VEHBD has been crazy.

But Chicago has been very cool lately.

I almost feel like it's *my* city.

But if it doesn't last, there is always NYC, right?

Whoa, watch the pretzels!

The weekend has passed too fast.

And now I can't believe it's November. Before we know it snow will be on the ground. The only good thing about cold weather is the accessories. I look good in hats, but they leave hat hair. So I guess the bad cancels out the good?

At the Halloween party I attended I was a witness to Chex mix/pretzel abuse.

Seriously.

The Hostess of the party lost her ipod. She accused her multiple guests of taking it. When she realized she wasn't going to get answers she started cleaning. This cleaning involved consolidation of snack foods. Unfortunately, the pretzels reminded her of the ipod and she threw them into the Chex mix. It was quite dramatic.

And very comical.

But then I was scolded for laughing.

Gosh, some people are really attached to material possessions.

Look at the apple pie I made:


It is so yummy. I love making pies! I wish you all could partake in the cinnamony goodness.

Ten Inches Tall

Today I felt very Metropolitan.

I left work fairly early.

Ran to the market and picked up the makings for a delicious dinner. (Chicken and pasta pesto with garlic biscuits and cheap wine).

I caught a bus and actually grabbed a seat.

All was going well.

Then I tried to cross the street.

And fell down.

Like a little kid.

And scraped my knees.

Luckily the bottle of wine was ok.

Now I'm getting drunk on cheap wine.

Some days, that's all you can do...

Another Round!

I am the proud owner of a VEHB. That's right. I broke down and bought myself a bag from the VEHBD. Meet Julianne:


Ah, it is so nice! And the smell! Oh, I love the smell of leather!

I also have someone else I would like you to meet:

I have decided to call him Howard. He has been hanging on my window screen all day. Why? Good question, I have no idea why. At first I thought he was a leaf.

Tomorrow I have the day off. I have a list a mile long of things that need to be done. Number one being "Find a new job". Wish me luck!

When it rain and rain and rain and rain

I can't believe it! I found the Youtube channel of the guy who stood in front of me at the Mika concert. I know it's him because he was so tall that I mainly watched his camera instead of the actual stage.





I love his new stuff as much as his first album!

In other news, the creativity bug got me today. So here's what I did:




I made pj bottoms! They are so cozy!!!

P.S. Thanks for the texts and messages of support!

Where is the “good” in goodbye?

Today's post was going to focus on the Mika concert I went to last night. I planned on giving all of you details and pictures.

But, as we all know, life happens and this entry is about something entirely different.

I have sad news.

My dog, Maggie, has passed away. She would have been 13 years old this coming month. A good long life for a good dog. Oh, how I will miss her crazy barking, and annoying way of pushing you if you didn't pay attention to her.

We Are Golden

The Mika concert was AMAZING!!!!!!!!

All I can say that if you get a chance to see him live you must! He is so fun and energetic!





Happy Birthday Toi!!!

So Close...

The postman dropped off my packages today.

They are now locked behind the management office door.

I received a note in my post office box telling me I had two packages waiting to be picked up in the office.

Why is nobody ever in the office?



In happier news, I have tickets to see Mika on the 20th!!! I am so excited. I just need to find something cute to wear. I was thinking of my green dress, you know the one I bought in Boston. I could wear it with my new boots and leggings. That's right. I now own leggings. I blame it on this city. I was, and still am against leggings as pants, but they make a great substitute for tights on the really cold, windy city days.

Wait a Minute Mr. Postman!

For the second time in a row I have received in my mailbox a silly little note card telling me to reschedule a drop off time for my packages, or go to the post office and pick them up myself. The first time I hopped on the little city bus and made my way to the post office and carried my package home, this time however I am hoping they will redeliver. My mother sent me two gigantic boxes of stuff I couldn't fit in my suitcase from my last visit. I think what frustrates me the most about the situation is that my apartment building has a little office where occasionally the management staff works, so I don't understand why nobody is there in the middle of the day. I am going to have to sit in the lobby all day Wednesday in hopes that the post man will give me my packages when he sees me sitting there.

Anyhow, I am feeling very motivated tonight. I have no idea why. I haven't had caffeine since 1pm! I think it's the fall. Autumn does something to me. I can't explain. It makes me sad and happy and excited all at once. I am really upset by the lack of foliage in Chicago. There really are no trees. It is so sad. Where will the crunchy leaves I like to step on come from if there are no trees?

In city related news, the CTA is talking about raising transportation fares. The monthly pass, which I use is going to be over $100. It's currently at $86. If they really raise it I will have to switch my pass to something more reasonable. There is no way I want to pay that much for a bus/"L" pass each month. They must think we are stupid in Chicago, or have lots of money to spend on the bus. But, if we had that kind of money wouldn't we spend it on our own car?

Oink!

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

I want one. Christmas present?

I tromped through the pumpkin patch.

I have decided that I will take an old fashioned approach to Halloween this year.

Have you ever seen "Meet Me in St. Louis"? Well that is what I want. The huge fire in the street, throwing flour in people's faces and dressing up as horrible ghost.

Feel free to join me in Chicago if it sounds like fun to you.

But we will have to be careful. I don't how well my neighbors would like our little game. Maybe I should warn them? Or invite them to my place to watch the movie so they know what to expect?

Well, bite my butt and call me an apple!

Have you noticed the nip in the air?

It is lovely. I love fall. The scarves, hats, sweaters, hot drinks, football games and changing leaves.

Aaahhhhh!!!!!!

I have had so many things happened but I have been too lazy to relay them on to you. So to make a long story short:

My Aunt and Uncle came to visit. We found a fabulous French restaurant
.

This is what I had for dessert. It's the first time I've found it here in the U.S.!!

Chicago has Nutella commercials. Crazy, right?

I am still going to be in MI this weekend.

I'll be in Grap Friday evening until late Saturday or early Sunday. I hope to see some of you.

I have a funny/awful/awkward CTA story for you all, but no gumption to type it.

Planes, Trains, Taxis cabs, All the Choices Hip...

I've bought my train tickets back to MI! I look forward to seeing some of my MI friends!!!

Also, I am looking forward to driving my car.

Oh, how I've missed you my little automobile!! It's been a long time since we've taken a trip together! Remember that time we went through the hills of PA? Ah, good times, good times...

Today I am being really, really lazy. I have accomplished almost nothing, except marinating a flat iron steak which I intend to cook tonight for dinner with broccoli and some home fries.

Gosh, I need to be more productive, maybe I will get out the sewing machine and try to hem my pants...

That thing has a name?

Sometimes I feel like a Hermit. I would say I *am* a hermit, but it just isn't true. I do go out, I go to work and I don't have an apartment full of newspapers. So I guess that leaves me to be an old maid. I know I'm not "old" now, but I can see myself be talked about 100 years from now by distant relatives as they look over some old family photos.

"Ya, that was Great Aunt Pomme. She never married. Look at her curly hair. It's too bad all that curl died with her."

Yep, I will be reduced to my hair. And my marriage status.

Anyhow, today in the VEHBD, a man visiting from China wandered with a couple of his buddies to look for presents to take home. Unfortunately, he didn't find a bag he liked but the following, very amusing conversation did result:

Him: Do you have a discount?
Me: No
Him : Oh. You are pretty. Are you German?
Me: Uhmmm, kind of...
Him: Ah, American! You are many things. What all are you?
Me: German, French and Irish
Him: Oh! The Germans are very pretty, so are the French, they have good clothes and make up. You know the Russian are very pretty too.
Me: Yes...
Him: Ok, thank you. Have a nice day!
Me: Ok, you too. Have a nice visit.

Sometimes I have the most amusing customers.

I also have the most idiotic customers. I had a woman ask me if the VEHBs were real. Yes, they are real, but she thought they weren't expensive enough. Some people are just stupid. I should have just told her that we add the rest of the ticket price at the register. That would make her feel better.

Wow, that was a long post. Sorry, I will try to post more frequently in hopes to reduce the length.

For the longest time

My brother was here this past weekend. It was fun. Now I have a fridge full of beer.

I started this post with a head full of stories but now I lack the gumption to write.

I've learned that my grandmother thinks I am wasting my life. How lovely.

This weekend I have a real weekend. Saturday and Sunday are free days! Yay!

Anybody want to visit? I know a place were we can listen to a fabulous polka band!

My Kind of Town

Chicago has been fun the past couple of days. Yesterday I saw Ivanka Trump, but I didn't think it was her, because I didn't think it made sense, but then after talking to other associates I found out that she is running the new Trump Hotel and is often in Chicago.

Who knew?

Then, today I saw Britney Spears with her two sons, a nanny, and several body guards. It is so weird seeing celebrities at work. Britney really does look like she has things together right now. But I was surprised at how short she is, she isn't any taller than me. I guess I always thought she was taller.

Wow, VEHBD is fun!

I just wish I had my phone with me.

VEHBD

Today was my second day in the very expensive hand bag department (VEHBD). It seems to be going well. The one girl I've met that I work with seems very nice. I like her. Selling very expensive hand bags makes you lose perspective of things. I keep telling myself that I will get a bag, but then I remember I have to pay my rent.

Anyhow, yesterday the city was invaded by French people. I don't know why! But I swear I haven't spoken that much french since I left Perpignan. It was awful, well, actually my French was awful, but the experience was kind of fun in a weird challenging way.

The city has also been invaded by Brits. I love the British! They are so adorable! They have cute accents, great TV shows (Have you checked out JEKYLL yet?) and are so friendly. Today, however, I made a complete fool of myself in front of the most beautiful man I have even seen. He had dark hair, blues eyes, and of course an accent that made me go weak at the knees. He asked me for directions and all I could think was "Damn, you're hot. Take me with you." It was embarrassing. I know I gave him the wrong directions, but I honestly couldn't think straight. I wish I had looked cute today!

Trust me... I'm a psychopath!

Alrighty Kiddos, I have found a new show that I absolutely adore. It is only 6 episodes long and of course is a BBC production. "Jekyll" written by our good friend Steven Moffat, who I am sure you remember wrote many memorable episodes for "Doctor Who" including some of my favorites; "Blink", "The Girl in the Fireplace" and "The Doctor Dances".

If you haven't guessed by the title of the show, it is a modern day take on the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. It stars an actor named James Nesbitt ( can I tell you how much I love his name! Nesbitt!) and he is fabulous in the show. I am amazed at his range.

Because I can't decide which clip to show you (I love them all) I have included several scenes from the show. I caught it on Netflix, but I am sure those of you who are more internet savvy can find it somewhere else! Enjoy:

Too Much, Much Too Much

I had several customers flash me at work.

Why?

Well, for some reason people are just too comfortable around me. They feel the need to show me their bras and underwear just for the hell of it. The most outrageous was a lady who first rolled down her dress to check a cup size against her bra IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SALES FLOOR, then she asked me to grab her something and when I took it to her dressing room she opened the door to me and was standing there in a g-string and her bra. Then she asked me to look at a different bra and totally just whipped the first one off and put on the new one. I can't handle it. I really can't.

Good thing I move to hand bags next week.

I think I'm allowed to call security on the people who decide to flash me there.

I Paid For These, They Should Still Be A "D".

Sometimes crazy things happen in the Intimate Department. Today, several crazy things happened. I had a customer ask my bra size and then talk really loudly about my size in front of myself and the customers behind her. Then, we had a customer tell us she bought her boobs and they were shrinking. She seemed a little upset, but come on. Why would you pay for boobs? Plus, I've heard that after you get a boob job you never need a bra again because they don't move, so why was she bra shopping?

Anyhow, the craziest thing that happen today was my first Celebrity sighting. Rumer Willis, who was here in Chicago promoting her new movie, stopped in to look at CK underwear. She seemed nice, I said hello to her and asked her if she needed help after she wandered the sales floor pretty aimlessly for 10 minutes. I really wanted to take a picture to prove it you all, but I don't think I'm allow to photograph customers, or have my cell phone on the floor for that matter. The sad thing was that my co-workers didn't know who she was. I kept saying her name and they thought I was crazy. Apparently I am the only Pop culture junkie at work.

He's snarkastic.

I've learned a few things over the weekend:

--You can buy Utz potato chip at World Market.

--If a restaurant breaks a plate on your dinner you get a free meal

--You aren't allowed to walk around the Hancock lounge

--The Onion can make me laugh even when I'm not in the mood to laugh

--Gargling aspirin water really makes a sore throat feel better, but it leaves a bitter taste in the back of your mouth

--Most old people are wise, but some aren't. Like 70 years who ride the "L" with their family.

--"The Time Traveler's Wife" is a great movie. I don't care what the critics say. Plus it's film in Chicago!

It's better to help people than garden gnomes.

The past few days I have been homesick. Not homesick for MI, but homesick for Paris. I really feel like it is my hometown and right about now all I want is to go home. Every time I see a plane loop over the lake and my apartment to land at O'Hare I feel a pang of jealously. I just think about all those people coming and going and wish I could too.

So, in my desperation I made Nutella and banana crepes from my Julia Child cooking book that Moi gave me for Christmas. They were very yummy and only made me miss Paris more.

Then of course there has been the craziness of Chicago. My co-workers are fighting amongst themselves and a couple of very creepy guys hoovered around me at the park today forcing me to leave early.OH, and let's not forget the Chicago birds that seem to hate me. They are pooping on me all the time. I have been cleaning my work suits left and right...

Ok, sorry for the complaining. In good news my apartment is almost completely clean and ready for my mom's visit this weekend!

Excitement in the City

Today has been very fun filled. First, I had a package slip in my mail box and wouldn't you know it, but I received a free bra from one of the vendors at work. Then I ventured to Target where I bought a water filter because I read this story a few weeks ago. I haven't been able to enjoy a glass of water since. Next, I had my pictures developed and they actually turned out pretty good, but I will let you be the judge. ( I will include them in a later post because the photo shop didn't give me a cd even though I asked for one, so now I will have to scan them in). Then, to top off my day I found a new way to wear my hair:


What do you think? I like it, it's kind of old fashioned!

Oh, and I saw "Julie & Julia" and loved it! Julia Child continues to be one of my favorite people. I will have to go buy all of her books!

If ya get tired: pull over; if ya get hungry: eat somethin'.

I have been on a movie kick the past couple of nights. I made a point of watching things I had never seen, even things I swore I would never watch and found myself pleasantly surprised. The first film I caught was "Mermaids" with Cher, Winona Rider and Christina Ricci. It was fabulous. I loved it.


My second film was "The Way We Were" with Robert Redford and Barbara Steisand. I admit, I never thought I would watch this particular movie because I'm not a big Barbara Streisand fan, but it was actually really, really good. I would even call it a tear-jerker and I NEVER cry at movies!


And my third, and final film was "Best in Show" and Oh My God it was too funny. I was laughing out loud more times than I can count. I just love a good "mockumentary" If you need a good laugh this is the movie to watch.

Shhhh...It's a Secret!

Oh my friends. I have a confession to make. Today I went a little "back to school" crazy. Now, I'm not going back to school this semester but I walked into a store and all the school supplies were out so I just had to buy a note book and some pens. I couldn't help it.

I also bought this camera in orange today. It has proven to be fun so far. I have no idea how to put the film into it, or how to focus it. This first roll should be interesting...

Bumps in the Night

I seriously just found and killed this bug in my apartment:

(I didn't take this picture - google search!)

I am sooooooooooo creeped out right now.I don't know if I can go to bed. I may just stand here on the chair all night. The good news is that according to the site I found the picture on it is a harmless bug. But it is really ugly. Eeeaackkk! I just can't stand it!!!!!!

I don't know how many French people you have met over the years, but most of them are insufferable.

This week has been one of those weeks that makes me doubt the human race.

I have dealt with demanding French women (who had saggy boob and blamed me for the sagging), and a French woman who couldn't find her size and claimed it was because "American women are strong" aka "Fat". Both felt the need to talk very condescendingly to me. I'll be damn if I will allow a french person to treat me like crap in my own country.

There was also the man, from who knows where, who wanted a girdle for his over indulged aka "fat" daughter. But to get the right size for her demanded I stop what I was doing and grab a tape measure. I had to walk away so I wouldn't scream.

And of course there is always the older women who come in wanting a new bra that doesn't make them look fat. You know, they want me to get rid of that side fat that hangs under their arms. Ya, I have nothing to fix that, besides getting some kind of nip or tuck or just watching what they eat.

And I still have to work Saturday.

I need a new job.

And I think a new city.

Good God. There's writing on both sides of those pages.

My time in MI is coming to an end. Soon I will be on my way back to Chi-Town. I don't really want to go. Summer here is so nice.

It's so weird being at this point where my childhood home is no longer my "home" or at least the place I live full time. I know I haven't lived here full time in a while but knowing I am really acting like an adult just confuses me. Where did time go?

Alright, one month to my next three day weekend. I am hoping it lands on the labor day weekend and I can join the family up at the cabin!

The Sound of Silence

Today I woke up in my old bedroom to the sound of birds, dogs and some kind of little summer bugs. It was nice. I had forgotten how green the world is outside of the city. I love being able to escape the madness of the city and slow down in the country for a little bit.

My Mom has taken it upon herself to plan my whole weekend. Sorry friends, I won't be able to meet up on Sunday, but next time I'm in the state I PROMISE we will do something.

I hope you all enjoy your weekend!

P.S. My parents now have WiFi, it is fabulous! Why did they wait until I moved to get it?

Lazy Mondays

I didn't have to work today. It was lovely. I met up with a coworker and we explore the city. Our journey included a trip to the park, a beer at The Palmer House and finding chip dip at Dominick's.

It was a good day.

I will be in MI this weekend. If anyone has a free Sunday evening, let me know, maybe we can catch up!

Sending All My Love

Dear CTA,

I really, really hate you right now. First, I saw two of my buses fly by my stop outside of work while I walked along side the building to the bus stop. Then, I waited 20 minutes for the next bus to come and when it did it was full. So full the bus driver just drove on by not even considering to stop. So, I walked to the "L" just to fight my way down the stairs and end up in a car with a crazy man. Now, when I first got on the car and found an open seat all was nice and calm. But then, somehow, a crazy stinky man decided to sit in the seat in front on me and turn around and stare at me like I was going to steal his stuff. I wanted "What the F**k is your problem? Turn around A**hole you're the one who sat in front of me. I was here first!"

Then to top it all off, I stopped by the Seven Eleven to buy a slurpee, chips and dip, and once again I couldn't find dip. What the hell does Chicago have against dip for chips? I can't find it at Jewel or Dominicks and now at the Seven Eleven. OH and the Seven Eleven had no tops for the slurpee cups.

I think I need a vacation from all this craziness.

Crawling Along

Tonight in my little neighborhood there is the dinner crawl, which is a really cute idea. All the little businesses open their doors for people who've paid for dinner tickets and "free samples". Unfortunately, I agreed to let my landlord show my apartment so I am homeless for a few hours. But on the bright side, I am getting paid $100 for the inconvenience!

Oh, well I guess my leek and potato soup can wait for tomorrow night, I guess I will just have to survive on coffee and chocolate!

What a tragic life I lead...

Oh, he's so handsome... just like his reward posters.

Right now, Dear Friends, I am wearing a very, VERY comfy t-shirt I bought at J. Crew when Moi came to visit. We both bought three t-shirts and they were one of the wisest purchases I made during her visit! I love comfy tees!

The past few days I was a tourist in my own town with Moi. We shopped like crazy people (and spent too much money) ate good food, visited the animals at the zoo, went sightseeing, saw Harry Potter 6, and went to a SOX game. It was fun. I wish Moi could have stayed a bit longer! It's so nice having my college friends in town!

I was a little disappointed in the new Harry Potter film. If you've seen it you will know what I am talking about, and if not, I don't want to spoil it for you! I think I will just stop reading, that way I'm not disappointed in films based on movies.

Here's a few pics from Moi's visit:




Oh, I have decided that I will make an effort to call everyone once a week. I feel like I haven't talked to some of you in FOREVER!!! Expect to hear from me soon!

Just for Thanksgiving?

Recently I have decided that Sweet Potatoes are my new favorite food.

I have discovered the secret to the perfect sweet potato fry.

Cumin.

Preheat your oven to 375ish.
Slice sweet potatoes.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Sprinkle with Cinnamon, Salt, Pepper, Paprika and Cumin.
Toss until coated.
Spread the fries evenly on a cookie sheet.
Place in oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping every 10.

Let cool slightly and enjoy!

Remember This One?

In honor of my new Netflix account and because Moi has never seen this movie, the title song from For Me and My Gal:

I just love this movie!

The Spirit of 1776

Happy 4th of July!

I realized earlier today that is this the first 4th of July I have spent away from my family. Usually we don't do much, go the the parade, grill, hang around the pool and the past couple of years my mom and I have gone to a Public Library book sale in Hanover. One thing that never seems to change is that we have Strawberry Pretzel Dessert. Well, I maybe away from my family but I refuse to let go of the dessert so I am sharing my recipe with you. It is one of my family's "Pennsylvania Recipes". Our family friend, Faith, is from Pennsylvania so every time she shares a recipe that involves pretzels we call it a PA recipe.

What you will need:
10oz of Pretzels, crushed
1 stick of butter, melted
3 tblspn of sugar
8 oz of cream cheese
1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar
2+ cups cool whip
1 cup mini marshmallows
6 oz of strawberry jello
2 cups of boiling water
1 quart crushed strawberries

Pre-heat oven to 375 Degrees Fahrenheit. Mix together the pretzels, butter and sugar in a 9 x 10 dish, spread evenly in the bottom lightly pressing in to the dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

In a medium bowl mix together cream cheese, powder sugar and 2 cups of cool whip. Once smooth add marshmallows. Spread on cooled crust.

Mix together two cups of boiling water and the 6 oz of jello. Let set until thick, but not solid. Add the crushed berries. Pour on top of the cream cheese mixture. Let set.

Once set frost with remaining cool whip.

Enjoy!

A Starless Night

This evening a coworker and I were walking to the grocery store when I noticed the moon hoovering above a skyscraper. I was really excited to see the moon and happily pointed it out to her and she proceeded to laugh at how happy I was at seeing the moon. I love looking at the night time sky, but since I've moved here I haven't had the pleasure of looking up into a starry sky.

I told my coworker that not seeing the stars was one of my biggest qualms of living in Chicago. She then told me she has only seen the stars once in her life. Growing up and living here in Chicago her whole life she only saw the stars when she had traveled to Central America.

It just amazed me. She has gone her whole life only seeing the stars once. ONCE! It's so sad and almost cruel. The stars are for everyone to see and because of the city lights she has only seen them once. To me it is almost like not being allowed to breathe. Every human has the need to breathe, and I think to see the stars, to remind ourselves of how little we are in the huge universe. Maybe if more people saw the stars we would have a better understanding of how we need to think and live for the whole world, rather than our starless existences of the individual self.

Just a little bit of Sugar water...

My mom bought me a sewing machine.

I've been sewing.

I made this:



I just love the fabric!

Surprise!

This is one of my favorite comic strips.

Here's the Father's Day edition.

I think you can see why I like it.



I am being lazy today and I am blaming the sun. If it would just shine I could go to the beach and work on my tan and be VERY productive. As it is, I am *trying* to work on job applications and finish my bag!

Oh, I think my next three day weekend is the weekend of the 4th of July. Yay! Independence day is going to be AWESOME this year because I won't have to work!

The Pain of Disco?

Flipping through the TV channels this morning I came across this:


Apparently I have an Indian station?

It translates to "The Pain of Disco".

Ya.

I don't know, but it is very funny.

If you can watch all of it without cracking up you a better person than me.

Aquarium, Schmarium.

Today I was going to go to Shedd Aquarium.

But there was a really long line.

A line composed 75% by small children.

I decided to walk the lake shore instead.

I did manage to take a few pictures of the hazy city.






OH and look at this picture I found on my hard drive:

I think it's one of my favorite pictures. Can you guess what it is?

Day of Rest

I love having days off of work. Today I spent my free day shopping (just a quick run to Target, I bought orange nail polish!) and enjoying the sun at the beach (I managed to burn my back and shoulders!)

Between reading and texting I painted this little picture of the beach:


Ok, it's not my best effort, it lacks detail, and depth, but I think it captures how I felt being at the beach!

I also managed to get a workout in today and it KILLED me. Gosh, I can't believe I have been so lazy lately!

Honesty

There are times when I feel like being completely honest about everything. This is one of those times.

I miss school. I miss writing papers at 3 am. I miss having my friends live with me.

I miss Paris and Europe.

I really haven't taken to Chicago. I think that is why most days after work I come back to my apartment and avoid the rest of the world. I have read so much since moving here it is ridiculous. I now realize I am subconsciously counting down the days until my lease is up. Telling myself not to make too many connections here if I am only staying a year.

I am old fashioned. I often consider giving up my phone, television and computer and going back to a simpler life.

I don't understand the desire to have children, or to be married like a "real adult" but sometimes I find myself wishing for those things. I don't want to be a spinster, yet I don't really care to have a string of crappy boyfriends. Especially ones that "don't believe in marriage".

I wish I knew where I was going and what I wanted.

I wish I wasn't so self conscience and cold to strangers.

I've said to much and not nearly everything, but I am starting to sound a little Emo so I will stop.

Forgetfulness

All day at work I kept thinking of something to mention here and now I can't remember it.

I feel like I am losing my mind!

Oh well!

I bought "Before Green Gables" yesterday. I think I will start reading it tomorrow. I am a little hesitant. I love the original series. I can't imagine it will measure up to L.M. Montgomery's tale but I will try to keep an open mind and let you all know what I think!

Da Da De Da Dahhh

Ok, I just watched this ten times in a row. I miss France.

Is Chivalry Dead?

I often wonder when getting on to a full bus if chivalry is dead. Often little old ladies and women are standing in heels crowded into a stinky bus and guys will be sitting in the few seats not even considering that they should give up their seats. It doesn't really upset me that they don't offer me a seat, but the fact that they don't offer the little old ladies the seat that annoys me.

Anyhow, this past weekend my mom came to visit and we had a blast. Saturday we saw Jersey Boys which was fantastic. If anyone gets the chance to see it you should! Then Sunday we went shopping and I now have several new dresses and cute things to wear. Monday we hung out at the Zoo. We ate Chicago style pizza, and even had a true Chicagoan moment when a person committed suicide by jumping in front of our "L" train. It was interesting... Mom told me as she was leaving that she likes the buses best and saw more of Chicago than she ever wanted.

Now to the four more days of work I have in front of me before a day off...

End of the Week Round Up!

This was the longest week ever! I think it seemed so long because I knew I had three days off in a row! That, and my soul is being sucked away little by little every time I walk into my place of employment.

Anyhow, I think I might have been sexually harassed today. I was strange. I was at work walking down a hall and this guy, who is a co-worker, comes up behind me and half whispers in my ear "lookin' sexy". At first I didn't realize he was talking to me so I slowly turned around and looked at him. He just smiled and leaned in closer and said:

"Your not who I thought you were, but your still sexy" and he laughed and walked away. It was really weird.

I need a new job.

One that doesn't make me lose faith in the human race.

Parlez-vous francais?...Non

Today I had an awkward french moment. This girl came in and told me she was from Lyon and asked if I knew it and I said yes in French and then began to babble in French about studying in Perpignan. It was completly embarrassing because my accent was as horrible as ever and then after my little out burst I was so shaken that I couldn't speak anymore even though she was asking my questions. I kept thinking:

"You sound like an idiot! Why would you do that? Holy crap now she is asking me questions and I am an idiot who doesn't understand!"

Anyhow, I also had the funniest thing ever happen at work. A woman put a bra on upside down and to the side and asked me if there was something wrong with the bra because it didn't feel right. I laughed about that all day. At least I wasn't that big of an idiot!!!

I want to see this movie:


Who's going with me?

Year One in Review

This blog is officially one year old. I will admit that I didn't think I would stick with it this long! I was hoping to have a big funny post highlighting the best events from the past year, but I just didn't get around to it.

Instead I have my favorite pictures taken from the last year.

Enjoy!

Really?

The people of Chicago have an obsession with my birthmarks. Seriously, everyone asks me about the birthmarks on my neck and usually they ask:

"Are those hickeys?"

EVERYTIME. Guys, girls, everyone, everywhere.

Tonight, while with my cousin I got:

"Are those birthmarks or hickeys your boyfriend gave you so I wouldn't come up and talk to you?"

So smooth. Really.

It is starting to annoy.

Then, it was followed by another guy calling me "sexy" as I walked down the steps of the "L" platform.

I just don't understand how approaching someone as a sexual object if going to make them like you. Especially when you mention their birthmarks.

History Lesson

Today I wandered the city. I started out in Wrigleyville and made my way to Grant Park, Millennium Park and Navy Pier.

When I stepped on to the "L" I wanted to shoot myself. The train was full of crazy Cubs fans. It wasn't some much the amount of people, but the type of people. There were a lot of boys who were running up and down the car which I found annoying.

I'm not really a kid person.

Anyhow, once in Wrigleyville I found an amazing grocery store called "Treasure Island" where you can find all kinds of yummy things including Kir Royale jam! And at a silly little store I found this bag:


Then I stopped at Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. Did you know that the fountain marks the start of Route 66? Currently it is going under some restoration, but I guess after working for 82 years a little work might be needed. It was modeled after Latona Fountain at Versailles and commissioned in memory of Clarence Buckingham by his sister. I was surprised at how pretty it was.

Epiphany?

I just realized I'm an adult. A real adult.

WOW...

"This is the Smithsonian! This is the big leagues!"

Today I intended to explore the city.

But it started to rain.

So I went to see "Night at the Museum 2".

It was cute. A little flat, but good. I had some issues with the Smithsonian. The Wright Brothers plane isn't in the entry hall as depicted in the movie. There is also the issue of distance between monuments and the museum. They made it all look really close together when in fact there is more distance between them.



Oh! And this Harry Potter Trailer was before the movie:


I am so excited!!

Un-Wanted

Things I don't want to do:

- Go to work tomorrow
- Clean my apartment
- Laundry
- Dishes

I really like "Fairytale" the more I listen to it the more I like it.

New favorite songs make me happy!

You Are Fettuccine Alfredo

Compared to most people, you have rich and decadent tastes. If you can afford something, you'll go ahead and indulge yourself. You are a true foodie. No food is off the table for you. You're the type most likely to appreciate every aspect of a five star meal.

What Pasta Dish Are You?

So true. I am a foodie and not afraid to admit it.

Fairytale

One more reason I love Europe:

Eurovision!!!

This year's winner:

Say Cheese!

I love having the day off of work. I get the chance to do fun things.

I went to the beach to work on my tan. Luckily I didn't burn, but I did manage to get sand embedded into my scalp. The wind was driving the sand into all of us sun worshipers today, but no one seemed to mind. The crazy wind, sun, and a giant pink building made me think of the Canet beach in France. I really wish I could be there right now to enjoy the sun and a great croissant.

Here's a couple of photos from the past couple of weeks here in Chicago:

Summer Breeze

Can you believe how warm and sunny today is? I can't!! It is crazy! I should go to the beach, but I am so distracted by my new internet connection. I am so excited. I have been playing online all morning!

Well, that's all for now. I was just so excited about my internet connection I had to share!!

Iced Coffee

The title of this post is really random. I couldn't think of anything else.

This past weekend I went home. It was nice, busy but nice. I have a new phone. It is really cool. A LG Envy 2. I've named it Ziggy with help from Moi. If anyone (except for Moi) can tell me which TV show was my inspiration I will send you a prize!!!

Today I had a very French moment. I walked up to a customer and asked if she needed help and she answered me in French, telling me she didn't speak English and the weird thing was that I switched right over to French without thinking about it. I told her that I spoke a little French and she was really happy and told me that she was just looking but would let me know if she needed anything. I was so amazed that it just came out of my mouth without me thinking about it. It's been FOREVER since I've spoken any French!!!!

Those moments make me miss France.

Ok, off I go to watch the season finale of "Biggest Loser"!!!

Minor Frustrations...

The past few days I have felt like I've been surrounded by idiots. Everyone has just been really dumb. Most of these incidents have been closely related to public transportation.

Example 1:

My bus drove past my stop because the 148 was stopped because it was too full and the driver yelling to the people in the back of the bus to move more. I then had to catch the "L" and a very creepy man stared at me and I had to run off the train at the last moment as the doors were closing so he wouldn't know were I lived.

Example 2:

I had to help a grown woman pick out slippers. Seriously, slippers. She didn't want them to be "too big" What difference does it make. They are SLIPPERS!! I had a horrible thought that if I got a running start I could have pushed her out of the window down the the street below. I know, awful, but wouldn't have even noticed. She was about as smart as a rock.

Example 3:

I had to help an older woman pick out pj's for a girl she knew was graduating from high school. When she found out that young people don't wear their pants "at their waist" she totally flipped and called it "vulgar" and acted as if I had insulted her.

I just don't know what I am going to do with all these silly people.

Cinco, ummm, Seises de Mayo

Dear friends,

Cinco de mayo is my new favorite holiday. Mainly because it involves lots of Tequila. And Mexican food.

I had my first two "Chicagoan" moments yesterday. The first was when I was getting on the "L" and I ran into someone from work and the second was when I was walking back to my place from the "L" and I ran into another person from work who apparently lives around the corner from me. Chicago feels smaller and smaller each day!

Ignoring the Obvious

Ok, so it seems really weird to me that I am now 23. I can't even type it with our cringing. It is just so...old. I know that it's not really old, but I think of when I was younger and what I thought the age of 23. It seemed old, and it makes me think I should have a real plan for my life by now.

Anyhow, yesterday I went out for cheesecake and drinks with some friends, it was fun and then when I got home I discovered that Doctor Who was on! Yay! It was one of my favorite episodes with Sarah Jane and K-9!!! I really want a pet like K-9!

Oh!!!!

Did you girls realize that one year ago yesterday Moi, Toi, Sleepygirl and myself graduated from undergrad? Wow, it seems unreal!

Na Nana Na

I love this commercial!



It makes me miss Amsterdam!!!!

I have sad news friends. I think my free internet connection is gone. Right now I am sitting in Zanzibar drinking coffee and enjoying there free wi-fi. Now I have a dilemma. Do I get an actual connection from my apartment, or just come here everytime I need the internet?

Plus, does my silly little job pay enough for the luxury of my own internet connection?

I hate pretending to be an adult.

Just for Fun!

I'm an Apartment. What are you?

Just Like Old Times

This week I have met up with two old friends from High School. It has been very weird and cool at the same time. Today I met up with Jon. He has really found himself here in Chicago and it was really fun to have coffee with him today. We chatted for almost 4 hours!!

Oh, and today I picked up Chicago Library card today! Yay!!!!

Click

Quiz Time!

You are like a photographer




To you, every little thing can convey something because you're so observant! You don't especially like taking real things and recreating them--you want to show things like they are. • on the outside, you are popular and smart, as well as nerdy. You love science, and you feel more than you think. • on the inside, you are hurt very easily but you are good at giving advice. you don't follow your own advice too often. But you're one of those people doomed to fall deeply in love.

I love quizzes. They make me happy.

I had a dream I was pregnant last night. It was very, very weird.

To answer SleepGirl's question, May 9th, 10th and 11th.

Busy Days

Today was quite exciting even though I didn't work! Here's what happened:

-- Lunch with a friend from high school at the "Bongo Room"
-- Witnessed a drug deal
-- Discovered Myopic
-- Bought a book and lied to the cashier telling him it was "for a friend"(I even asked for a gift receipt)
-- Cleaned my Apartment
-- Discovered that the dryer in the building does a great job when you don't put too much in it

Tomorrow I have to work, but then I have Wednesday off!

I was thinking about my three day weekend and I would love to have you guys come out. Let me know if it works for any of you. I know things are crazy with jobs and the end of the semester stuff. Just throwing it out there!

Okey Dokey

My friends,

I appreciate your comments of reason. I *know* deep down that it isn't very probable that I will catch the Swine flu and die, but every time I watch the Chicago news they make it sound TERRIBLE!!!! Just think about all of those people who come into Chicago via O'Hare! Anyways, I don't know why I am letting the flu bother me when global warming is going to do us all in!

I am trying not to freak.

But, it's not really working...


In work related news, I think I helped pick out tights for a gay wedding. The guy was really funny and cute about making sure the tights matched the dress. I like friendly customers!

In family news, my dad is going to have his gall bladder removed. Apparently he has gall stones. At first they thought he had an ulcer, but after his recent hospital visit on Friday they decided it was his gall bladder. I guess it's a good thing you don't really need your gall bladder!

I hate being far away from my family when things like this are going on.

I have a three day weekend coming up! May 9, 10, and 11!!! Yay!!!

Dark Days?

I am a *little* freaked out by the swine virus. I really hope none of the international guests I have been working with are going to spread it to me. That would make me sad. Especially if it killed me.

And to make matters worst I just found out that Bea Arthur died! She was only 86! If you want to learn a little more about her check out this story.

I really don't want to go to work today...

Sun Kissed

I went to the beach this morning and managed to get a sun burn.

A SUNBURN!!! I only spent 45 glorious minutes in the sun by Lake Michigan and managed to get a burn that will hopefully develop into a lovely tan.


Happy 23rd Birthday to Moi!!!!!

Stuck in the Middle

Work was a bit annoying today. Corporate was there, so everyone was really weird. Especially the one manager. She doesn't seem to like me, she always glares at me and I always feel so intimidated by her. Plus, my two coworkers who ALWAYS fight were back at it today, fighting and putting me in the middle of their spat.

And now for my confession. I am reading Twilight and kind of liking it. I am so ashamed, but I can't put it down. I don't know why!!! I can't wait for my electric bill to come so I can take it to the Library and get a library card. ( I need to prove I live in the city).

Sunshine On My Shoulders

Today has been a beautiful day. A perfect day to celebrate Earth Day!!! I want to stay outside all day and take in the sun, I only have a couple of problems. First, the wind is still very cold and second if I wander the city to enjoy the weather I will end up spending money and I already bought a microwave and dress today so I can't spend anymore!

The couple of hours I spent at the beach I managed to snap these photos:





I love the Lake. It's so calming. I also love that I can go sit by the lake listening to it hit the rocks while I sunbathe and read a book.

P.S. I found these at the grocery store the other day. All I can say is "eeewwwwww".