...this & that...Thursday #1

Today, a little something different.  A poem about friendship. 

I have had poem in my life for roughly 16 years.  I am not sure how it came into my possession.  But, I do remember re-typing so that I could laminate it and carry it with me always.  In my wallet or day planner.    Throughout the years it reappears in various places.  Wallets or purses.  An old book, one that I read over and over.  My jewelry box.  Today, it appeared in the center console of my car.  Not sure how it got there.  Along with the poem was a picture from several years ago.  My girlfriend Margie and I attending the Valentine's Day event at her church.  I also found a gift from my Mom, an angel charm for my rear view mirror.  It's funny what you find when you least expect it.

The poem:

True friendship isn't seen

with the eyes;

its felt with the heart

when there is trust.

Understanding, secrets,

loyalty and sharing...

Friendship is a feeling

very rarely found in life,

but when it is found

it has profound impact

on one's well-being,

strength and character.

A true friendship does not need

elaborate gifts

or spectacular events in

order to be valuable or valued.

To ensure long-lasting quality

and satisfaction,

a friendship only needs

certain key ingredients:

Undying loyalty,

unmatched understanding,

unsurpassed trust,

deep and soulful secrets

and endless sharing.

These ingredients, mixed with

personality and a sense of humor,

can make a friendship

last a lifetime.

Anonymous

The Parlor.

My new favorite place.  The Parlor is a relatively new and chic pizzeria.  Literally a 2-minute drive from my office.  And on the way to Starbucks.  So convenient, right?  Yes, I know the locale is so ideal.  And simply fabulous. Truly it is.  If you are in Phoenix you definitely need to stop in for a bite to eat.

A few months back Bern ate lunch there and thought it was great.  He told me I need to try it out.  So, I finally became acquainted with The Parlor last Thursday. 

A much needed lunch date was my girlfriend Vikki.  Or as I like to refer to it as a girlie date (meaning only girls or specifically for girls).  But, it almost didn't happen that way.  At the very last minute I needed to change the location.  Luckily, my date was more than happy to oblige me.  So sweet of her.  So, hence my very first experience at my new, very favorite place and on a girlie date!  It can't get any better than that.

The idea behind the lunch date was to photograph it and blog about it.  Great idea Vikki!  I wonder where we are eating next?  Check out Vikki's blog for our lunch date at For A Moment Photography.  I thank Vikki for providing the killer photos of our date.  My photos, from my Blackberry, are not so hot.  I must say she is truly a gifted photography and I absolutely love her work!

The ambiance was great.  A great mixture of jazz music in the background.  Vikki arrived first and opted for the outside patio.  Great choice!  The misters and fans made it seem like it was 75-80 degrees rather than the actual 100 degree temperature.  The food was wonderful.  Fresh.  Natural.  A truly great selection of unique items.  We both had salads and I even had a bowl of soup.  Yes, 100 degrees outside and I ate soup. 

It was really great to see her.  I love hearing about her photography business and her daughter, Presley.  And it is simply nice to visit, talk about ...this and that.. and be on a girlie date, period.

Well, since last Thursday I have eaten at my place a total of three times.  Yep, that is correct - three times.  Of course, I try something different every time.  And everything has been fabulous.

Another reason I like The Parlor is because they
support local businesses.  And I have my table.  I go between 1:30-2:00 p.m. purposely to miss the lunch crowd.  Typically it's just me on the patio.  My own private lunchtime oasis.  Oh, and don't forget the jazz music.  It rocks!

Hmmm, I wonder what I will have for lunch tomorrow...?!  And what I will write about for ...this and that...

Busy, busy, busy.

I haven't kept up with my goal.  Bummer.  The goal was to post a blog entry every day.  Pretty simple, I know.

Hmmm, let me make a list of my current outstanding to do list:

1. Ongoing list of blog entries (in random disarray and various forms of completion)
2. Need to order my moisturizer and age-defying serum (almost out)
3. Victoria's Secret: Heavenly perfume (travel size solid)
4. MK order (yes, another one)
5. Various emails -- I need to catch up
6. Update my research list for the trip - a lot of items here and sub-lists too
7. Student loan forms
8. Miscellaneous items for the trip (i.e.: packing tips and must's - as learned through my research)
9. Purchase another PlannerPad - do I or don't I...?
10. Dell Mini -- currently on-hold (I still WANT this but, not right now -- unless of course a great sale appears
11. Order calling cards (really cute) and note cards (super cute)
12. Update budget
13. 9/30 pay bills
14. Update my trip "must do" list (this is agreed upon itinerary items)

And to think this is my abbreviated to do list.  I have sub-lists for each number...  Alright, I need to go finish the laundry and think some more about ...this and that... (as listed above).

Movie Review: Wall Street

Money Never Sleeps. [click on this link to go to the official movie website]

This will be short and sweet.  I liked it. 

The movie was not as cutthroat as the original.  It definitley lacked the "rip out your guts, stick it to him" manipulation that the original nailed.

The movie began with Gordon Gekko getting out of prison and then it fast forwarded 7 years.  Wait, what did he do for 7 years...?  We don't really know.  Well, he wrote a book and lived in a killer condo [that he was leasing]; so obviously, he made some money somewhere (book advance, maybe?).  The movie was about how Gordon had changed, had he?  Hmmm, I won't give it away for those that haven't seen it.  And then fast forward, to almost the end [I won't spoil it] -- they needed to explain a little "more" about Gordon...if you've seen it you know exactly what I mean.  There was an emphasis on family and repairing what happened.  As Bernie put it "Gordon Gekko became an ethical man".

Bern spilled the beans a few hours before the movie and told me Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen) was in it...only, as a cameo.  But, it was fitting.  The real estate agent was in the original as well.  Michael Douglas and Shia LeBeouf did an outstanding job.  And to think Douglas now has cancer, I hope everything turns out ok and he is movie #3.  Oliver Stone also made a few cameos in the movie.  Josh Brolin and Shia LeBeouf nailed their roles.  And of course Gordon, Michael Douglas, was great!  Oh, and Carey Mulligan played a great Winnie Gekko (her role in the movie put an entirely different spin on the movie -- one that I wasn't expecting).

I will say this, the movie really nailed what once was for Gordon and depicted it to a "T".  Also, it was really interesting to see how they tied in all of the last few years of the craziness on Wall Street and our economy. 

I would have liked to see a little more of:  Bud Fox [and what happened -- yes, he cameo gave a "quick" synopsis], a lot more manipulation, and less emotion (crying).  All in all, the plot was great for a sequel but, yes, it could have been a different.

Oh, I forgot to mention we saw this at the Harkins Cine-Capri theatre...AWESOME!  It was Bern's first experience with the big, huge screen and killer sound system.  He liked it.  Also, I especially think he especially liked his leg room.

The movie ended with a definite opening for #3...  What will Gordon come up with next?  Hmmm, a little of ...this and that... probably.

It's Friday night, karaoke anyone?

Rewind.  I am behind on a few posts...
Well, well, well.  It's Friday evening and my plans for the evening involve karaoke.  Oh my!  And old friends.  So here it is a little of ...this and that... from my Friday evening with friends (from way back)...

I left work and headed to the Radisson.  Let the festivities begin!  I was really looking forward to seeing Bonsai and Esmerelda. [Note: both are "real" nicknames for these friends; actual names will not be used]  The friendship(s) spans over 13 years and thousands of miles.

The evening started with hugs, catching up and old-times.  And of course dinner and drinks at the hotel.  However, I started with water.

Esmeralda was on a mission for karaoke.  So, karaoke it was.  Earlier in the day and on my lunch I googled "karaoke in Old Town Scottsdale".  Low and behold, I found The Grapevine. 

It is important to mention the wonderful CD Esmeralda made for our car ride(s) of the evening...way old school and sooo much fun!  Just think early 90's.  As we listened to the awesome CD I headed to my place. The plan was to drop off my car and catch a cab to Old Town.  Well, our wait was 45 minutes and too long to wait.  With my quick thinking I called my wonderful cousin, Amy, who graciously agreed to take us so we cancelled the cab.  Literally five minutes after cancelling the cab and calling my cousin -- my doorbell rang and it was the cab.  We were a little stuck.  But, it all worked out and we got dropped off all while listening to the great tunes.  Thanks Amy!

The Grapevine rocked!  Bonsai and I opted not to participate vocally however, we did cheer on Esmeralda.  And I might add she did a great job!  There was an absolute great vocalist who sung Elton John and he was fabulous!  A few others did well and some were mediocre.  The bar is a definite for anyone who wants karaoke - 7 days a week.

Ok, this is where the evening changes a bit.   Remember, I drank water at dinner.  So, I was a bit behind.  A lot behind.  Earlier in the day I decided I would drink water and maybe have 2 glasses of wine at the karaoke bar.  Keep it simple and low key because I don't want to screw up all of my hard work with my diet and the gym.  Nope, that didn't happen.  Not even close.  I did not respect my workout regime and diet.  A little background here: I rarely drink and when I do I have a glass of wine, maybe 2 and never more. 

So, needless to say I my evening ended early.  Quite early.  I had 2-1/2 drinks and I was done for the evening.  My drink of choice was not a glass of Pinot Noir as I had originally planned but, Vodka and Red Bull (an old time favorite).  The last time I had this drink was at little Mel's bachelorette party, earlier this year in March.  Bonsai and Esmeralda were great and got me home safely and tucked me in.  A side note, our cab driver from Old Town to my place would not shut-up...he just went on and on...  He really did.

Simply stated "my" evening ended early.  I can honestly say that I cannot hang like I used to.  I guess age does that to us, 13 years later, no kidding!  Too funny, I know.

I woke up bright and early at 6 a.m. Saturday morning with a teeny, tiny headache that lasted ALL day.    Around 4 p.m., relief, finally!  Yes.  Thank goodness.  Oh, a little tidbit my "crew" had some wee little headaches too...  Esmeralda's was still going strong into the evening on Saturday.  My favorite items for the day included my couch, my Tylenol, and my PUR water filter.  I hydrated nicely in preparation for "my" crew night #2, the concert (Roger Cline and The Peacemakers).

All in all, Friday was great.  It was really great to see spend the evening with Bonsai and Esmeralda regardless of the wonderful headache I had on Saturday. 

It's fun to meet up with old friends and reminisce - even if it involves a teeny, tiny headache. 

What I read... And 56 days to go.

I was inspired by another blog to write this post.  Check out Coffee Sketches's post from Friday, September 17th:  "Real Books and Magazines".  Note: this is a blog of "coffee sketches" by Wendy Sefcik of Broken Box Designs.  A great and quick read first thing in the morning.  Thanks Wendy. [She already knows I love it.]

So my purpose is to share what I read.  Well, actually my current "reads" because from time to time I switch things up.  Like now.

First and foremost, I have to say I want the real thing.  Absolutely.  Positively.  There is something about holding the book in your hand and turning those pages - physically turning the pages (for me anyway).  And reading a magazine around or in the pool is the way to go; taking my Blackberry in the pool to read an article would not be good.  Or an ebook for that matter (I miss turning the pages, "physically"). 

So, the latest and greatest to my repertoire is the magazine OUT.  I love it.  It's different with a twist.  Literally, I start reading and cannot put it down.  The magazine definitely keeps it real.  Plus the writers "write" with a certain edge and I like it.  I definitely like to be amused and entertained as I read.  [Note: it is not my intention to offend anyone because I read this magazine].  It's really simple:  I enjoy reading it, period.  Nothing more, nothing less.

I received my [partial] B&N order today.  Yippee!  I have to say the Culture Smart books (Tunisia and Rome) are the best investment yet -- $8.95 for roughly 100 pages of GREAT travel information (and history too).  This is thanks to another blog I frequent transient travels [thanks!].

B&N also sent me another writing book.  On Writing Well by William Zinsser.  Several writing blogs that I frequent recommend the book -- so, I got it.  Still waiting for 2 more travel books: Food Wine Rome and 24 Walks in Rome.  And a 3rd on pre-order with a release date of November 3rd; this one I am really excited about because is the final book in Nora Roberts wedding series.

When will I find the time to read all of these books...?!  Don't worry I will.

In addition, to my new magazine and new books, I of course still have plenty of other selections to choose from.  Wait, I completely forgot to mention my ebooks, oh my!  Another time.  Plus a few articles from various magazines that "inspired" me for blog posts; these are works in-progress.  Oh, and I couldn't resist the new Glamour; I liked the cover and the feature article topic (an idea for a future post)...  So, be on the look out for a lot of future posts, I just need to find time to complete writing them, type them, and post them.  If only, there was more time in the day!

Well, I am beat.  Lifting weights yesterday started it and cardio today finished me off.  Until tomorrow...

Twitter.

FYI.  I signed up for Twitter today. A little something different.  A button for following will be added one day soon. 

Follow my tweets @  _thisandthat_

57 days to go...

I am so E-X-C-I-T-E-D!  Time is flying by.  November 17th is almost upon us!  And I head to Italy.  Bernie too.

It's official.  Finally, US Airways upgraded B's ticket to Italy.  To and from Italy on our 17+ hour flight (approximately) we will be sitting together, yay!  And thanks to B's frequent flier miles and his Chairman's status with US Airways we will be enjoying our very long flight in the comfort of first class.  You would think flying well over a million miles would constitute an immediate upgrade from coach to first class.  Ummm, no.  It most certainly did not.  He faithfully called them every week and requested the upgrade.  Keep in mind we booked the tickets on August 3rd.  And of course he always double-checks when he calls about other trips and tickets. 

Yay!  So E-X-C-I-T-E-D!

Still need to figure out "where" in Rome we are going to stay.  We want to keep it at $200 per night.  Still hoping for less because we are still on the search.  Any ideas?  We will be on the go constantly so, we only need the room to sleep in.  Minimum requirements:  clean, king size bed, free breakfast, and close to the action (or heart of the city).

My research is still a work in progress.  The ports:  Palermo, Tunis (Africa), Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Barcelona, Marseille, Savona, and Rome.  Plus after the cruise five days in Rome.  I am currently reading Rick Steve's Rome 2010 and it providing phenomenal information pertinent to planning our days in Rome.  Remember B's the travel agent and I'm the cruise director and tour guide.  However, I have discussed with Bernie that I want him to partake in deciding what excursions we take on the cruise - there are to many to choose from. 

I am currently waiting for my B&N order to arrive with the following four books:  Frommer's 24 Great Walks In Rome, Food Wine Rome, Culture Smart! Italy: A Quick Guide to Customs and Etiquette, and Tunisia - Culture Smart!: A Quick Guide to Customs and Culture.

The main focus right now is the hotel room in Rome.  Bern is on a mission.  Geez, I thought I was on mission but, Bern, is determined to book a room with a killer location for under $200.  However, we need to remember euros and not dollars...

Ok, its late and I need to catch some zzz's.  Until tomorrow then.  So E-X-C-I-T-E-D!

Wow...!

I have so many ideas and several in-progress posts.  But, the question is what do I write about tonight? 

I do realize I haven't written since last Thursday.  I have been quite busy at work hence, the delay for weekday posts.  At times I am quite surprised how my inspiration comes about.  I do however write them on my lunch break (when I actually take a lunch that is).  Yes, I know it still leaves the weekend.  So, what happened?  Nothing out of the ordinary.  I think?  Well, I suppose it might have been my late night at the office on Friday which carried over to the late start of my Saturday.  Up late.  Slept in.  Late start.  The goal was to be up at 8:30 a.m.  1) Head to the gym.  2) Run errands.  3) Pool-time.  Nope, my early start never happen.  Got up around 10:20 a.m.  Arrived at the gym at 1:30 p.m., ran errands before and after.  Grabbed roughly 2 hours of pool-time while reading a fabulous magazine, OUT (more on this later).

My inspiration comes at the most inopportune times.  Seriously, it does.  However, I am prepared.  I jot down my ideas in my teeny, tiny notebook or type a few notes into my Blackberry.  Being prepared always pays off.  I am one prepared person.  And then some.  I can honestly say that I am rarely unprepared.

This week will have some interesting, yet, different posts.

PS - Another shout out to Wendy for all the fabulous graphic updates to my blog.  Thanks Wendy.

The new look...

...loving it!

Well, have you noticed my blog is ummm, a little different?  Yes.  And it looks fabulous.

Ugh, the rock star-next-door neighbor is going to town on his keyboard...I think he is doing chopsticks or something.  Extremely irritating at 10:53 p.m.  Jesse, its bedtime.  He is still unaware that non-rockers live next door.

 Jesse, it is "officially" quite time.  If I think it hard enough -- I think Jesse will absorb it (through the cinder block wall).  Ok, back to the post.

The changes look great.  I absolutely love them.  A few more will be coming next week.  I owe a very special thanks to Wendy Sefcik of Broken Box Designs LLC, Owner/ Illustrator/Designer (extraordinaire)!  In my opinion that is.  Wendy is one truly talented and creative individual.  I found Wendy on another site I frequent (check out my blog list).  She did the graphics.  So, I checked out her website (in its entirety).  I really liked what I saw.  An extremely talented artist and I like her style.  A definite must to check out her website (click above on link).

My header is what started it all.  I decided it needed something more - a bit more "me".  Funny I know.  It's not like the blog isn't already me.  Duh, its my blog.  I needed more of a presence if you will.  And it needed a little more pizazz and oomph.  I had an idea...I conveyed my thoughts via email (mostly) and one phone call.  And you can see the awesome results!  I sent her a bunch of pictures of my work area (kitchen counter) and what's around me as I work.  She went with it.  Need I say more?  You are looking at the results.  Check out my "grab me" button...

On a side note I am looking forward to this weekend and hanging out with Bern.  Time for bed.  I hope you enjoy the changes.  Thanks Wendy! 

And don't forget to grab my button for you blog.  Love it!

Happy Friday everyone!  Make it a great one.

64 days to go...

Woohoo!  November 17th is almost here.  Wait, wow, time has really flown by.  I need to quit diddle-dallying around and complete my trip research.  Outline it and complete it.  I definitely need to put it into over-drive and get on it.  And then some.

Still need to contact Marie at Costa Cruises and ask her many questions...  1) price list for laundry and dry cleaning services 2) price of internet per day (nope, its not free) 3) excursions and (current) availability and 4) information about the gym and cardio equipment on the ship (there are pictures and virtual tours of the entire ship online and "NONE" of the gym).  Still need to do the run-through of all my bathroom products (travel size).  Definitely, need to ensure that I have enough of my girlie products.  And most importantly that I don't run out during the trip -- that would NOT be good...  Oh, that is very frightening just thinking about it.  Very.  HP:  press the clear button...deep breaths...inhale...hold...exhale...repeat. 

Much, much better....

Still need to book the hotel in Rome (3 possibilities).  List and map the day trips for the five days in Rome; review book.  Figure out which excursions we want to do (if any are left?).  Overall trip research for each port and history overview as well - to review on the plane and night before each port (for B and I to discuss).  After excursions are booked, prepare history overview of places visiting (on excursion). 

Goals:  Friday, September 16th, order remaining books from B&N.  Complete all reading by October 1st.  Don't forget the italian phrase book.  By October 15th complete run-through of girlie products.  Bern to call AMEX regarding hotels, exchanging money, and excursions in Rome.

A little overwhelming.  Geez...  I didn't realize taking a few days off, well weeks, really, of trip planning would make me feel so - behind?  Yes, behind.  Really, really behind.

Ok, well.  I have somewhat of an outline.  A rough, rough outline.  Now, time for some beauty rest.  Hopefully the (beauty) rest will conjure up a magical, wonderful and complete outline (by tomorrow evening).  Mental note:  need Marie's telephone number from Bern.  Nite.

Tonight's sunset.

Something absolutely breathtaking about living in Arizona - the sunsets.  Enjoy.

Confused.

I am confused.

So many buttons to choose from:  Subscribe here. Feedburner. Reader. Posts. Comments.

I really do not understand the difference between the subscribe buttons whatsoever.  I can tell there is a "universal" button of sorts that everyone has or it is on the upper right hand corner of your browser (well my browser at least) and you just "add" what your viewing to your feed.  Confused.  Still. 

I have reviewed Google feedburner help and still no such luck.  I tried last night to understand what the difference is and no such luck.  This is my second try and still no such luck.  So, I have decided to leave things as is until I figure out otherwise.

I signed up, added the buttons, deleted the buttons, moved things around, and still I am confused.

Well, enough said, I am heading to the pool.  If anyone call explain the difference for me please do so and enlighten me.  I personally think in this particular instance there are way too many choices.  I want my blog to be simplistic and be "me".  I really do not think I am asking for to much or am I?

Confused, HP

9/11/01. I remember.

I remember.  I woke up listening to Howard Stern on my alarm clock and thinking "oh my god, is this for real..?"  I got out of bed, turned on my television, and called my Mom.  We just sat on the phone and listened to the newscasters...I remember saying "what the f**k is going on here?"  Some of the newscasters were speechless, emotional.  This is not typically something we see.  For the next few minutes my Mom and I tried to make sense of what was happening.  I remember "gasping" in horror as the second tower was hit.  I am unsure at what point we got off the phone.   I remember waking up my sister (whom I lived with at the time) to tell her what was going on. Confusion.  Shock.  I had to get ready for work.  Yes, I did still had to go to work.  Most of us arrived late due to the news coverage and our day ended shortly after in began.  For the rest of the day I sat at home and watched the news coverage of this horrific event. 

I remember.  My soon-to-be ex-husband called.  He asked if I was ok?  I thought, hmmm..."did you sign the papers yet?"  Yes, I was thinking this.  And YES, I asked it.  I called my Dad.  Asked if he was ok and if my cousin, Judy, was.   She is a flight attendant for American Airlines and flies in and out NY on a regular basis.  She was not working...she had the day off.  My Dad told me that several months ago he was in the Towers for a meeting.

I remember.  Howard Stern.  He did an absolutely phenomenal job reporting the events of the day.
I remember.  The countless number of rescue personnel.  The teamwork.

I remember.  Lives saved.  Lives lost.

Today, my thoughts and prayers are with those that lost their lives on this tragic day.  And those whom were directly affected with the loss of a loved one.  I pray those whom remain behind "remember" and have been able to move forward (psychologically and emotionally).  I thank those who risked their life to save a life. 

I hope those lost will always be remembered.

Where were you on September 11, 2001?  Where were you when you heard the news?  What do you remember?

International Shout Out.

This post is a dedicated to all of my international visitors. 

Thank you for visiting my blog.  I hope I bring a smile and a smirk or two while you drink your morning/evening coffee or tea.  And of course a mix of ...this and that...

For all of your regulars in the States I have visitors from a total of 9 countries.  Wow!  I have to say that is pretty cool.  Please feel free to check out my visitor locations map and my stats at the bottom of my blog.  Some of the blogs I frequent as listed in my blog list... are from other countries as well.  There are some truly entertaining blogs out there.

I ask that all my blog visitors comment on today's post.  Please tell me who you are, where you are from, a little about yourself, and how you found out about my blog.  Oh, and don't forgot to leave your blog address if you have one.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks for visiting.  Until next time.

Weekend recap.

Pizza.  Boise State game.  Bern.  Computer.  Post. 

What a nice long weekend.  What?  Wait.  The weekend is over?  Where did it go?  My weekend was consumed by my computer, my blog and the blogging world.  Yes, it really was.  However, I did manage to do some fun things with Bern that didn't involve my computer.  But, I of course spent time writing and reading at my other office...poolside at Bern's.  Welcome to my pool side office...

I have decided that I am going to create a schedule for myself in regards to my blog -- so that my free-time is not consumed.  The SITS girls state that I need to live my life and write about it later because, if I don't enjoy it - I won't have anything to write about.  But, first things first, my post for tonight!

On Saturday evening Bern and I went to the Yard House for dinner and saw the documentary The Tillman Story.  The movie is an absolute must see for everyone.  Before dinner we made a quick stop at the shoe department in Dillard's.  And low and behold - a  shoe sale with racks and racks of 70% off shoes!  Oh yeah!  Bern headed over to see what cologne was on-sale and ended up getting a few new Polo shirts, on sale.  I purchased 3 pairs of shoes:  2 pairs of flats by Gianni Bini (my favorite shoe designer) and a killer pair of brown Jessica Simpsons' [I meant to say Gianni Bini's -- don't know what I was thinking...that is what happens when you are yelling for you team and typing your blog] (these were on sale $26.99).  I have to say the grey ballet flats are so cute - I LOVE them!  I think I might go back and get the same ones in black...  I will keep you posted.  The brown flats were the main purpose of going and then I see the sale racks and it was over...I just had to look - I just could not resist!  I even sent a text message to a shoe-aholic that I work with; she loves shoes and I just had to tell her.  It is important to note that flats in my closet are a new addition.  Simply put, at times I just need to wear flats because my feet hurt from the day before.  Plus, I must add that I am determined to have comfortable, cute, and sexy shoes for my trip this November.  Just because you wear flats doesn't mean you can't have sex appeal too.  Don't you agree?

Sun Devils won!  I must say that I am looking forward to the fall season of sports.  The NBA and most importantly the Suns.  Bern has tickets so we go to every game.  College football - ASU and Boise State.  NFL.  Next weekend, my sister and brother-in-law have their annual NFL kick-off party.

Last night I saw my very first Rambo movie.  Yes, the action movie aficionado just saw her very first Rambo movie.  I loved it!  The ending dragged a bit but, just because I wanted to know how it ended and I thought Stallone's hair was great.  By the way, his body is in better shape in The Expendables (check out my previous blog of the movie review).  As soon as the movie ended I told Bern I am ready for Rambo II.  I was serious.  I was ready to watch it at 11:43 p.m.  We had an honest to goodness debate about how late Blockbuster was open and if he or I were going to get it.  I was serious.  It is 11:43 p.m. and we were both in our pajama's.  Blockbuster was not open until midnight.  I was wrong.  Next weekend, will be Rambo II.  I am looking forward to it.

I had Starbucks on Saturday and Sunday courtesy of Bern.  What a great boyfriend for picking up my Venti Mocha Lite Frappuccino (VMLF) for me on the way back from errands and getting my car washed -- so sweet!  Today, we didn't leave the house and I had a Double Shot from the fridge.  Not the same but, it gave me the JOLT I needed.

Our trip.  Bern and I were suppose to negotiate the excursions for our trip but, we didn't.  Nope.  We never even got that far.  Well, we agreed on one.  We both agreed on spending Day 6 in Monaco.  Oh yeah!  We talked about Tunisia because I travel website Saturday during the blogging frenzy that wrote about it...so I have a plan and a book to purchase.  We are both excited about spending the day in Africa.  

Tomorrow evening I will be heading back to the gym.  Let my cardio regime resume.  Pam, my trainer, will definitely kick my butt and be glad to see me ready to rock-n-roll.  I love it!  AND the results.

I am hoping to round out the evening with a win from Boise State - keep your fingers crossed.  Go Broncos!  Also, I am not real sure about Virginia Tech's new uniforms...a little different.  Just a little.

Broncos WIN!  YAY!  Go Broncos!

Rewind. Back to Saturday.

As you read pretend today is mid-afternoon on Saturday, September 4, 2010...

Just finished reading Chasing Harry Winston (by Lauren Weisberger).  Another book to add to my list and my bookshelf.  I am slowly but, surely switching to ebooks.  There is something about, just something, about holding that book in your hand and turning each and every page.  And anxiously awaiting what comes next...

My next read will be Everyone Worth Knowing (EWK); another book by Lauren Weisenberger.  On my B&N Wish List is her latest book the Last Night at Chateau Marmont.

Yes, I know and realize I have "other" books on my current reading list (look on the right handside of my blog).  But, I have put some of them on hold or rather, I have simply become disinterested in the book.  Or better yet, the book just does not grab my attention.  Times like this I simply stop reading the book.  I read another book in the interim and re-visit the book again...and, begin allover again...  I have tried this twice so far with Jennifer Weiner's, Best Friends, and I simply cannot get past page 10...  A blog I visited today (fast forward:  Monday morning) stated "don't start with this one, begin with one of her other books"...  So, I'll keep you posted on Ms. Weiner's book.

Since May of this year I have read close to 30 books.  Reading is a favorite past-time of mine.  Now, if only I could get paid to read...  Obviously, as you can tell - with my completion of school, my graduation from ASU this past May it has given me a great deal of time, free-time that is.  Oh, and more workout time too!

On a side note, I have to say that all of my hard work in the gym and change in my eating habits has begun to pay-off.  My clothes are fitting looser.  YAY ME (fist pump)!  And to be honest some of my clothes just don't fit right at all -- so, that means new clothes or a trip to Kwan (my tailor).  A few weeks ago, during the shopping extravaganza I did add several new items to my wardrobe and shoes too [Note:  look for the blog in the next few days for the shoes I bought Saturday evening, after I wrote this blog]  Just this past week I dropped several items for Kwan to alter and I am sure it will be a bit costly.  And, finally, I will admit I notice a physical difference - mainly due to the loose fitting clothes...

My regime?  Well...  I definitely kicked up my cardio.  I try to do cardio daily for a minimum of 35 minutes.  My choice is the elliptical machine at the gym in my apartment complex.  I like this machine because of the tv (that works) right on the machine.  Very nice, I know.  I typically watch Bones or NCIS well pedaling away.  And my water intake as definitely increased, along with drinking protein shakes on my way home (before cardio).  Now, you may wonder how the Starbucks fits in...well, my Venti Mocha Light Frappuccino is only 190 calories, 1 gram of fat, 6 grams of protein...so, I "approve it" for my regime.  [Note: be on the look for my Starbucks blog...] 

Headed to the pool now.  By the way, I hope you enjoy the changes to my blog layout and add-ins.

Until next time...

Utterly, completely diverted.

Late this afternoon, I finally stumbled out the the pool.  At 3:45 p.m. to be exact.  You see, at 10:25 a.m. this morning I got a little off track.  Well, actually, a lot.  I became utterly, completely, diverted.  Yous see, the original plan was this:  1) make breakfast 2) post to my blog 3) head to the pool, and 4) negotiate trip excursions with Bern.  This plan did not happen.  I fully intended for this, really, I did.  The morning got away from me.  Let me explain.

At 10:25 a.m. clad in my pj's and Starbucks Double Shot in-hand I sat down at my computer and began to log-in.  Wah-la, my dashboard appears and I, of course, scroll down and see who has recently updated their blog.  And low and behold I click away.  Click, click, click.  As you can imagine the morning withered away.  It became a blogging frenzy.  I got this bright idea that I would do a quick search on travel blogs to read while eating breakfast.  An everything bagel toasted with chive cream cheese and my vitamins.  I never got that far.  I just kept clicking away.  I finally noticed the time when Bern called to say "I am on the way back, do you need anything?"  I think to myself  "hmmm, Starbucks would be nice..."  And then Bern specifically asks me about you know what, from you know where...  Yes, Starbucks.  Oh, what a great boyfriend!  He says "there is a Starbucks right here, do you want your Mocha cappuccino? With no whip."  I pause and respond with "Really? Yes, please. I definitely won't turn down Starbucks."  I of course repeated my drink "Venti Mocha Lite Frapuccino.  Thank you."  I also explain to Bern that I didn't even realize the time until he called.  At 1:11 p.m. I still hadn't eaten breakfast or taken my vitamins.  I finally took a break, made by bagel and ate it.  About 10 minutes later Bern arrived with my Starbucks delight.  Yummm!  I preceded to give him a quick rundown about some of the blogs I had discovered.  Bern took his iced coffee (from home, not Starbucks or as he calls it "his own concoction") and proceeded to his office to update his blog.  Click.  Of course, I went back to the clicking.  Click.  I finally came up for air around 3:20 p.m. realizing that pool time was quickly diminishing.  A few more clicks.  I took my vitamins.  Place my Double Shot can in the garbage.  And I headed to the pool.

I was officially pool side at 3:45 p.m.

My week to date...

I am FINALLY feeling "slightly" better.  Let me explain.

Earlier this week, on Monday to be exact, I woke up bright an early and I felt horrible.  Stuffy nose.  Congested.  Pounding headache.  Sinus pressure.  Eyes hurting.  UGH!  Obviously, not allergies as I had thought Sunday morning.  Nope, better.  A full-on cold.  Yep, over 100 degrees outside and I am getting a sick.  Nice!  "Are you kidding me, seriously, really, come on now...?"  And just today (Thursday) I started to feel better.  Oh yeah!  Let me put it this way:  my pounding headache finally subsided today at around 2:30 p.m., about an hour after taking 4 Advils.  At this precise moment I thought "AMEN and thank you, thank you, thank you!"  What a relief.   All week I have had on-and-off "pounding" sinus headache(s) on steroids!  Oh, yes it was. 

This of all weeks was not the week to feel crappy at work.  The last week of the month and beginning of the new month is when billing gets completed.  I am sooo busy during this time and this is positively not the time to be sick, period.  It just simply does not fit into my schedule period.  Regardless, I was sick, felt crappy, and dealt with it.  I did not mask my cold as well as I would have liked and I know my co-workers can attest to this.  I stayed in my office as much as possible and washed my hands constantly (more than I typically do and I do a lot).  Most importantly I got the work out, well still working on it...

Time to tell you a funny "tid-bit" about my rockstar next-door neighbor.  Jesse.  Early twenties, about about 5'6", skinny, a cross between Mark Ruffalo, Matthew Goode, and Brandon Lee.  Plays keyboard and guitar.  Sings.  Great voice I might add.  His musical likes are a cross between Dave Matthews meets Coldplay, meets Incubus.  Jesse's explanation not mine.  I can hear Jesse sing and play his music frequently through my cinder block walls.  Let me add that at times, Jesse, keeps weird hours.  Weird. 

Ok, here goes...  Remember, this week has not been good for me.  I am sick.  I tend to get pretty cranky when I am sick.  Being sick is my least favorite of all things.  Literally.  I dislike being sick more than anything. Bern can attest to this and I am sure several others can add to this as well.   Jesse, aka Mr. Rockstar, decides to play his keyboard on Wednesday morning at 5:33 a.m.!  Yes, you read this correctly at 5:33 a.m.  Of course, I woke up and I thought "my goodness, did I oversleep?"  I immediately remove my eye mask, jump up out of bed and check my Blackberry and "SEE" the time...5:33 a.m.!!!  UGH!!!  I got back into bed.  Nope.  I decided to stay in bed.  I was quite bummed as my alarm was not set to go off for another 27 minutes.  6 a.m. was my wake up call.  I thought I was dreaming.  Nope.  It was Jesse.  I though, he must have been inspired.  I contemplated for several moments if I should go next door to explain how early it was and the simply fact that I was not feeling well and that this was a big, huge, fat "NO-NO".  I was going to explain that "Rockstar-next-door-neighbors need to respect that non-rockstar neighbors work and sleep during "normal" hours and that between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. music and singing should NOT commence, unless, of course, it is the weekend".  However, I decided against it.  I didn't want to ruin Jesse's day/night/morning (not sure where he is at with his schedule) or mine.  But, if I would have I would have been quite the sight, literally and figuratively.  Envision this, my pajamas:  orange Suns t-shirt, maroon Cardinals pants, and slouch socks (yes, I wear socks to bed), and a black eye mask, and crazy hair...what I sight I would have made.  Oh my.  I smile and laugh just thinking about this.  Really I do...too funny!

My Starbucks habit has had a definite dent put in it due to my cold.  However, it is still present.  I didn't have Starbucks on Tuesday or Wednesday; I did on Monday and today.  On Monday, the manager was nice enough to give me some Refresh Tazo Tea (mint tea, caffeine free) to try out after I finished my Venti Mocha Lite Frapuccino.  The manager stated "the mint tea will help with your congestion" and she added " that she likes the tea cold rather than hot".  Well, I must say I really enjoyed it.  I like it hot, haven't tried it cold yet.  A very minty, soothing tea, boy did it help alleviate some of the swelling in my sinuses and nasal passages.  It gave me a little needed bliss.

Alright, enough about my week.  I am feeling better, not 100% as of yet, but, better and that is what matters.  I hope you are having a rockin week and are ready for a safe and happy holiday weekend.  Make it a great Friday.  Oh, I am very much looking forward to 3-days worth of blogging...be on the look out.