Happy New Year!!!

Hope everybody had a fun New Years Eve '06, whether you were relaxing at home or partying in Vegas, like some friends of mine! I wish everybody a happy and healthy 2007 and may all of your goals come to fruition!

Personality test

Last week, I took the personality test that Jennifer and Becky blogged about. So here are my results...they were pretty accurate!

You are exceptional and unique. Your quest in life is to identify exactly who you are and why you’re here. What’s important to you is the journey of self discovery, determining who you are today is not the same as who you’ll be tomorrow.
(Pretty true)


You resist being categorized and are quick to question any social standard that you sense someone imposing on you. Stereotypical gender roles always interest you and, in your mind, connect to issues that most other people would never even consider related.
(True)



You can “connect” with any individual person and practically read their mind, but you have a natural tendency to match your actions to the expectations you read from their mind and yearn for company that lets you truly, naturally be yourself. You struggle between letting yourself naturally match the sentiment of the group (which feels like putting on a façade) or letting your individuality shine, which may allow people to see how different you are.
(Yes, this is pretty much me.)


You are particularly accepting of other people and have a special talent for seeing people’s true selves instinctively. It takes time for you to trust your gut instinct about people because even you don’t believe that someone could be so right about another person’s nature so quickly. This intuitive sense about what people are thinking (which is actually your hyper-attention to nonverbal cues) is your special talent. You may think it is available to everyone and that others just ignore it, but in truth others could never develop the skill to the level which comes naturally to you.
(Absolutely.)



To you everything happens on a personal level. Your friends come to you for advice because they know that you’ll love them for who they are and put yourself in their shoes to look at the world. Your advice, although varied in delivery, usually boils down to “be true to yourself” and “listen to your heart.” You are also an excellent confidant because things told to you never return to anyone through the grapevine. You exude this quality so strongly that even strangers will sometimes spontaneously begin confiding their deepest secrets in you.
(Yes, this is me.)



Despite all of that, you are not much of a talker. In fact, words sometimes trip you up because you prefer nonverbal communication. Unfortunately, most of the world is not as attuned to nonverbal communication the way you are, so your opinion can get overshadowed if a more outspoken person is part of the decision.
(Well, sometimes, I am quite talkative.)


You focus more on nurturing other’s self esteem than any other type. As a result of this naturally caring nature your close friends often turn to you for moral support.
(I think this is true.)


You are by far the most talented of all types at reading nonverbal cues. In your admirable attempts to convey a message diplomatically, those who aren't sensitive to inflection, tone, insinuations or body language sometimes simply do not get your message because they only receive the verbal half of what you said.
(Interesting.)



In the same way that you're the best at reading nonverbal cues, you're also the best at sending them. When you speak they miss the nonverbal half of your message, then they speak and transmit twice the message (verbal + nonverbal) which often gives away more than they intended but is sometimes carelessly inaccurate since they don’t send nonverbal cues as well as you do. When you're tempted to assign bias based on someone’s tone or other nonverbal cues it is wise to have them restate what they said and see if ignoring the careless, unintentional nonverbal half of their message lets the true meaning through.




If you have children your focus is making sure that your child has a strong self-image and high self-esteem. More than other parents it is important for you to be friends with your children.
(Well, i hope this will be true when I have children!)



You are more philosophical than most and passionately think about ethics and justice more than other types. It is when ethical issues come up in conversation that you most strongly sense that you are fundamentally different from other people. You become visually emotionally focused when these issues arise, while others easily laugh them off and switch topics to something trivial. To you, it seems that everyone should be passionate about ending racism, sexism and other social ills.
(YES!)



You go by the book and are suspicious of anyone suggesting that rules or laws should be ignored. You think constantly about improving laws, and see that at a major avenue for advancing social change because you see legislation and rule creation as the consensus opinion of the group working together. For you the focus is seeing everyone working together in harmony.
(hmmm...)



You are a healer and probably give great massages and know what foods will make people happy again. You prefer to surround yourself with direct, honest, authentic people who let you reinvent yourself every time you meet. You want nothing more than for there to be peace and harmony in the world, and your actions clearly reflect that vision.
(I guess so.)



You are more strongly moved by poetry and artistic expression than any other type. You are interested in the finer points of different artistic mediums, having many complete and incomplete poems and stories in your head if not on paper.
(I always have incomplete poems and novels running through my brain.)

Cool Stuff

Last week, I went to PBS's website for the first time to discover that they have a lot of really cool features!


1. An online independent film festival! I really liked Chickens in the City!

2. Create your own backyard paradise! This one is fun and is incredibly addictive!

Truly Yummy!

I received some free samples of this new product called True Lemon in the mail a couple days ago. This product consists of small packets (looks like packets of sweetener)of a crystallized lemon substitute! I have fallen in love with both flavors--True Lemon and True Lime! Add them to water and you have instant water with lemon or lime! You can use these packets in any way that you would use fresh lemons! Check out the website for free samples and coupons!

Good News for the Bears!

Today after many days of non-blogging, I have some good news to report!!! There will be no New Jersey bear hunt this year! It has been rejected by DEP commissioner Lisa Jackson. It infuriates me to no end to think that all these innocent bears are hunted every year...and why? Because WE have infringed upon THEIR habitat to build some more McMansions on the land that was theirs first? But anyway, victory for now. Check out this link if you're interested.

Friday

Glorious Rays of Sunshine warm my skin
Golden coppery leaves furiously skitter and skip across the soaken roadway
Shiny and damp is the Parkway today
Raindrops danced a caliente salsa number!
Now the wind gusts rustle the trees with a fury
Cerulean blue is the sky
dotted with brilliant grey and white clouds
The bright sun burns my eyes!
Traffic is stopped.
Everyone has a place to be, Friday afternoon.
Driving, splashing, through puddles reminds me of childhood.
Jumping in the muddy new pools of fresh rainfall.
Some things change but some stay ever the same.
Wait in line, take your turn but please don't cut.
Friday afternoon
Smile :)

Happy Fall!!!

Monkeys Run Amuck!

The other day, I heard the most hilarious story on the radio. New Delhi, India is infested with monkeys. Rhesus macaques, to be exact. These monkeys cause plenty of real-life mischief! They knock people off mopeds, ransack government buildings, pick pockets, steal lunches. The monkeys ride the buses and subways. They steal cigarettes and smoke them! On a more serious note, a man was killed because one of the monkeys dropped a flower pot on his head. So the government has tried to contain these monkeys. Larger monkeys, called langurs, are hired to patrol the streets of New Delhi and to scare away the macaques. Well, this tactic apparently wasn't doing much for the people of New Delhi. So according to the radio story, the government paid $54,000 to move all of these monkeys thousands of miles away. I did some research on the Internet. Here's an older story about the monkey situation in New Delhi. I've been trying to find video of the story but to no avail.

Update: I found a recent story about the banishment of the monkeys here.

Friday the 13th

In honor of Friday the 13th, here's a hilarious spoof of The Shining I found. Its a 30 second animation reenacted with bunnies!

New Music

My brother and sister-in-law gave me an itunes giftcard for my birthday so lately, I've been listening to a lot of the new music I'd been dying to check out. I have to rave, rave, rave about the new Gomez album How We Operate. Its an amazing cd which I can't stop listening to. I'd say something like Barenaked Ladies meets Oasis. They are an awesome band. Check them out if you haven't already and let me know what you think of the album.

Newness

I'm sorry that I haven't posted in way too long! However, one of my Jewish New Year's resolutions is to post more often! Today in between services and while I was fasting in honor of Yom Kippur, I bought myself a new digital camera. Thanks to Mom and Dad who are chipping in as part of my (upcoming) birthday gift. The camera I bought myself is a Canon Powershot a630. Its a great camera full of options and all kinds of modes. It shoots awesome photos even at night! I took a lot of photos in which I played around with the colors. Here's one from today.

Movies, Movies, and more Movies!

I spent most of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday home with strep throat! It was not too fun but I did catch up on watching some movies I'd been wanting to watch for a while. I've also been taking advantage of my libary's dvd borrowing priviliges!

On Sunday, I watched...

1. Taxi with Jimmy Fallon and Queen Latifah. It was pretty funny though I probably wouldn't want to see it again.

2. Breakfast at Tiffany's. Third time watching it--although probably only the first watching it in full without falling asleep. Wonderful, wonderful movies. One of my new favorites.

3. Madagascar. Disney-Pixar flick about the animals that escape from Central Park Zoo. Very cute!

On Monday, I watched...

4. Elizabethtown with Orlando Bloom and Kirsten Dunst. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Wonderful story and great music too. Go see it, go see it! Another new favorite!


On Tuesday, I watched...

5. (Not quite a movie but) The Office, Season one. Funny, funny, funny! If you've never seen it, its an office comedy about pretty much nothing!

6. Madea's Family Reunion. I thought this would be a really stupid-funny type comedy. Yes, it was funny, but equally touching. I can't wait to see the rest of Tyler Perry's movies now.

Fresh Bread

Today I decided to make some Challah bread from scratch! I have to say this is the first time I've made any bread that involved kneading and rising since 8th grade Cooking class! Although it came out a bit too cakey--it was quite delicious indeed!

Wanderings Around

Today I took the eight minute ride to Metuchen, one of my favorite small towns in New Jersey. I enjoy going to Metuchen quite often. Whether its for ice cream, coffee or perusing one of my favorite local bookshops. Well, today I decided to venture to some different Metuchen sites, one of them being the Old Colonial Cemetary. This cemetary is so old that there are Revolutionary War soldiers buried here. Certainly, an interesting place indeed!

Feelin' Good Now!

Last night, I went out to dinner with Katie, Karen, and Katie's sister Lauren. Well I ended up drinking 1 beer and 3/4 bottle of wine by the time we had ice cream at Emach and Bolio's. Another beer at Katie and Mike's house and I was feeling pretty damn good! What toothache? We had breakfast at Atlanta Bread Co and then I stopped at the Metuchen Farmers Market on the way home. I just made an awesome fresh zucchini and tomato soup from scratch and now I'll get a few things done before deciding on a plan for the rest of the weekend.

Diagnosis of Toothache

So after 3 phone calls to the dentist and one round of antibiotics, he finally let me come in at 8:30 this morning. Bright and early. I could have been sleeping instead. Doc found the problem--a crack in my wisdom tooth. It had to be pulled of course. The worst was the giant sized needles of novocaine. And the waiting. And then it was over with rather quickly. I was given direct instructions though for the rest of the day. No drinking out of a straw. Don't eat anything too hot. No smoking. But liquor is okay. Yes, I asked.

My Growing Garden

Well, every year I say I am going to grow a vegetable garden. And, alas, every year, I get too lazy to do it. I say to myself, too much work. Well this year, I decided to grow a potted vegetable garden. It was easier than finding a place in my yard to prep. So I have been growing 2 kinds of tomatoes, zucchini, eggplants, artichokes, thyme and rosemary. The herbs have been wonderful in salads! And I finally have some ripe tomatoes! Yum yum! This morning, when I went to check on the other veggies, I found baby zucchinis growing! Yay! Here's a pic of some of my ripe tomotoes. I'll keep y'all posted on the rest of my garden.

Nervesawreck

Mynervesareawreck. Last night, I could hardly breathe. I was hyperventilating. I've been bitten up by many mosquitos--or maybe its one mosquito that just really liked me. I had a rash on my face. My mouth has been in pain since my root canal last week. When I called the dentist, he prescribed an antibiotic. On a daily basis, I'm drugged up on Aleve with an ice pack on my face. I'm too much of a wuss (or too big of a drinker this week) to take the prescription painkillers. Sometimes I cannot deal with making decisions. I think I want to run off to Montana. I take money orders and Paypal if anyone wants to help me out there.

Happy 4th of July!

Happy Fourth of July, Everybody! I've had a busy weekend. I hope everybody is enjoying their holiday weekend.

Friday night, I had the rehearsal and dinner for (my cousin) Andrea and Frank's wedding. It was fun and I drank a lot of wine!

Saturday, I ran errands and got a pedicure and manicure, which took me all of 2 seconds to mess it up. Also, I had a date Saturday night! It went well--we had dinner and saw the Lake House, which I really enjoyed. After the movie, I took him back to his car, which he left at the restaurant. Unfortunately, while we were at the movie, his car was broken into and his navigational system was stolen! He had an hour and a half drive back to New York without a driver's side window. I felt really bad for him--but it sure made for an interesting end to a first date.

Sunday, I had Andrea and Frank's wedding, which I was in. It was a lot of fun and I partied hard til 3 am. Good, good times.

Monday, I went to a bbq at Steve's. I hung out with some friends and we had a good time, followed by Jenn sleeping over.

Today I'm looking forward to doing nothing. Enjoy!

Fun in the Sun

I am composing this blog entry from seat 17F on Contintal Flight 455 West Palm Beach to Newark. I enjoyed four lovely days down here for my cousin Andrea's bachelorette party. My aunt and uncle were gracious enough to "lend" us their Port Saint Lucie vacation home (complete with screened-in pool). There were ten of us and we enjoyed a limosuined night out on the town in West Palm--a lot of relaxing and chilling, eating and drinking, along with a mean game of Taboo. (Ahh...as I type this, I'm back home in New Jersey...I sort of miss the palm trees and lizards scampering about!)

Yay, its Summer!

At 12 noon, I'll be free for the rest of the summer! Yippee! I have an interview later today which will hopefully pan out to some summer tutoring. On a side note, a couple days ago, I made a decision which I had been pondering for some time. I am happy to say that I made the right move and am feeling light and free like a million pounds have been unburdened from my shoulders. I am now ready to enjoy myself this summer with friends and family!

Bummed

I'm into many new bands/performing artists and am bummed out that I have so many obligations this summer! I'm missing Animal Liberation Orchestra on Sunday (Father's Day), Jackie Greene on Tuesday (Sister's High School Graduation) and on Thursday (I'll be in Florida). I'll miss Feist at Central Park Summerstage on the 26th and Josh Rouse doing a free concert in July!!! Can't my brother reschedule his rehearsal dinner??? Well, I'm seeing my boys DMB in August and Paul Simon in July. Hopefully I'll make some other shows this summer.

My Latest Impulse

Thanks to Jesser's recent post, I could not resist the urge to purchase for myself a Nintendo DS on ebay. I.Just.Could.Not.Stop.Myself. In all seriousness, isn't it time I upgrade myself from my original eight bit Nintendo?

Top Five Reasons Why I'm Frustrated at this Very Moment

1. The Nintendo DS has not arrived.

2. My ipod is once again not working.

3. My feet hurt from standing all day (Spring Concert at school today).

4. I have lots of laundry to do.

5. My Nintendo DS still has not arrived.


I have more postings to catch up with. I'll get to it soon. Promise. Thats all Folks (for now anyway)>

Sleep-Deprived

Well, it was certainly a grandiose weekend! I spent Thursday through Saturday in Point Pleasant Beach for Karen and Chris' wedding. Thankfully the weather held out for a beach wedding. It was a lot of fun to hang out with the whole college crew again. The rest of the weekend was busy. Sunday was spent with family (brunch with my family and then dinner with Scott's) as well as friends in the City.

Today the weather is cold and rainy and icky. It feels more like March 15...not May 15th! After running around for five days straight, I really need a good night's sleep tonight!

I just sent out three more resumes for summer jobs...keep your fingers crossed for me.

I'm Back!!!!

I feel like its forever since I have blogged and it almost has been! I'm very sorry, Readers...I have not meant to neglect you all...I've just been very busy...

Spring has sprung and that means wedding season is in full swing. Since May began, I've had 1 bridal shower, 1 bachelorette party and 1 wedding. In the next week, I have 1 retirement dinner, 1 rehearsal dinner, 1 wedding (which I am in), and 1 more bridal shower. Add them all up and what do you get? Insanity and a checkbook in the negatives!

I'm now in the process of trying to find a summer job. I've sent out 5 resumes since Sunday. Wish me luck!!! From here on in, I'll try to do a better job of keeping everybody in the loop!

Happy Spring!

Spring has sprung! Look around...crocuses and daffodils are popping up and the happy birds are chirping away! Today I saw 16 or so robins hanging around outside my school! Amazing! In this new season, I'd like to share two new products I've tried.

I LOVE Rachael Ray. Whether watching her 30 minute Meals or $40 a Day, I think she's a fabulous cook and cute too! Yesterday, while perusing the brand new Target in my town, I discovered this magazine. Every Day with Rachael Ray. I liked it so much, I just subscribed. Look for it if you like her. Its fabulous!

I had to make a lunchtime Starbucks run today to try their new Vanilla Light Frappucino! Yum! Its coffee based and you can get a tall for only 160 calories and 1g of fat!

Norton ate my Blog

I was going to post an apology for my lack of postings as of late. I was going to cite a few different embellished excuses.

1. Working out a lot.
2. Busy planning weddings and showers and bachelorette parties for a million and one weddings coming up.
3. A Jewish holiday just passed.
4. Work has been crazy and frustrating in the past couple weeks.
5. Plenty of chores at home keep me busy.

After reading through this list, I realize my excuses are pretty lame. Here is why.

1. I worked out twice this week. Last week I had a cold, so didn't work out at all.
2. Actually, I haven't done enough for all the weddings coming up to warrant using that as an excuse for not writing in my blog.
3. Yes, Purim just passed. I spent an hour in temple on Monday. Thats not exactly time-consuming.
4. This part is true. I am usually very laid back and easygoing at work. Lately, I've been frantic and moody and pissed off.
5. I have been trying to keep up with all this stuff at home. But who has time with my busy schedule?

So, in truth, I really have no valid excuse for not posting recently. But, my friends...this is not work...this is not school. This is my blog. There are no required entries. So there. I don't need to make up a "Norton ate my homework" excuse. I can admit that I've just been lazy. So there!

Birthdays

Tonight I baked for some upcoming birthdays. I dug up a yellowed and wrinkled recipe for dog biscuits that a co-worker gave me a couple years ago. Wednesday is Marley's birthday (one of Scott's dog) and Dusty's birthday (Scott's sister's dog). So I made some dog shaped cookies for a few very special pups. Norton taste tested tonight and boy, does he approve!!!

Snow Day

Tis Sunday and its blizzarding out there! Why do we have to get 18 inches of snow on a Sunday? Couldn't it come on a Monday or Sunday night? Then we'd at least get a day off out of it. I should be happy because I have lots to do at home. But I have cabin fever.

What kind of food are you?

You Are Mexican Food

Spicy yet dependable. You pull punches, but people still love you.

What Kind of Food Are You?

Sliding

When I was a kid, we kept a spare twin-sized mattress in the basement for sleepovers. This morning, I was remembering how my brother, Ryan, and I would put the mattress over the stairs so we'd be able to slide down the stairs. Crawl up the mattress, slide down the mattress. Isn't it funny what random memories pop into your head at unexpected times? I wish we still had that old mattress...

I guess you could say I've been coasting in second gear for the past couple of days. Friday morning, my grandfather (mom's dad) passed away. In all actuality, he wasn't living anyway. He was subsiding in a nursing home suffering from Parkinson's Disease and lung cancer. He's in a better place now, though we'll miss him very much. Tomorrow is the funeral and we'll be sitting shiva every night between Sunday and Thursday at my Nana's house.

So yesterday I was sharing some Pop Pop memories with my sister, Ashley. Its sad because she is only 18 so most of her memories of our grandfather center around him being sick. So I will share some memories with you all, my fellow readers.

1. Pop Pop worked close by to our house so oftentimes, he'd come over and be with us during his lunch hour. Lunch would be a big bucket of KFC! Or we'd meet Pop Pop at the Roy Rogers for lunch. Ryan and I consumed many pickles at the Roy Rogers Fixins' Bar. We don't even have a Roy Rogers anymore!

2. Since Pop Pop worked for an electrical company, we always had a supply of batteries and flashlights. I was around 11 years old when he brought me a penlight. Oh joy! I was so thrilled!

3. I remember one Passover seder in particular when Ryan, Josh (our half uncle whom we grew up with) and I got into trouble with Pop Pop for fooling around. Dear readers, a Passover Seder is not a time to fool around when you have a very strict grandfather. Yet, it makes for fond memories down the line!

4. Finally, I recall when I was 18 years old and got my butterfly tattoo. Pop Pop had 2 tattoos on his forearms from his days as a Marine in World War II. I guess I was thinking we'd now be compadres, both of us with tattoos. So I was thrilled to show Pop Pop my new tattoo. But...Pop Pop was very dissapointed in me, alas.

May you rest in peace, Pop Pop! We'll miss you!

Gone Postal

On my way to work this morning, I heard the news about the postal worker in Goleta, California, who shot and killed six of her fellow coworkers before critically wounding another and commiting suicide herself. Craziness! Imagine that! Going to work on what you believe to be a "routine" day and being murdered by a coworker! How terrible! And why do we hear so often about postal shootings? I know there are school shootings too...are there other workplace shootings? I am sure there are. But when was the last time you heard of a Red Lobster hostess shooting all or a Barnes and Nobles bookseller going berserk? I am not making light of this tragedy...just food for thought for a Tuesday morning.

Yippee

Well, I was very pleased to go through my closet this morning and find that some of my pants are way too big and some fit after being too tight! Yay, progress! I've lost 9 1/2 pounds or so in the past couple months. Go me! I borrowed some things from my mom and sister and put together a tres cool outfit for tonight's party!

Four Things

I found a "Four Things" meme on Becky and Peter's blog and couldn't resist filling it in for myself.

4 jobs I’ve had in my life:

Teacher
Paralegal
Server
Papergirl

4 movies I could watch over and over:

Office Space
You Got Mail
Napoleon Dynamite
40 Year Old Virgin

4 places I’ve lived:

Long Branch, NJ
South Plainfield, NJ
Belleville, NJ
Montclair, NJ

4 tv shows I love to watch:

Gilmore Girls
Supernatural
Flavor of Love
Rachael Ray's 30 Minute Meals

4 places I’ve been on vacation:

Yellowstone National Park, WY
San Francisco, Ca
Key West, Fl
Las Vegas, Nv
4 websites I visit daily:

Little Jenny C
Jesser
my own!
ivillage.com

4 of my favorite foods:

Dark Chocolate
Cheese
Indian food
Tiramasu

4 places I’d rather be right now:

Watchung Reservation on a nice day
Anywhere in California
Austin, Texas
Vermont

Tag, you're it. Except I'm being a rebel and not tagging anybody. I wasn't tagged. Therefore, if you'd like to do this, go ahead, but I won't force anybody!

Relaxing

This week flew by--perhaps, because it was such a busy week! Monday, the kids were off on account of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day but us teachers were forced to attend workshops. However, we got free breakfast and lunch (see there is a such thing as a free lunch!) and cookies! I also enjoyed plenty of joking around with coworkers! Monday night, I watched Bewitched (the movie). It was funny and cute.

Tuesday night, I had Takeout and Movie Night with my friend, Lakisha, and her son Tashae. We had Chinese and watched one of my all-time favorites, Napoleon Dynamite. I also enjoyed watching Tashae play Sonic the Hedgehog!

Wednesday, I went over Scott's after school. We watched Wedding Crashers. I know I had high expectations for this movie and we were both quite dissapointed. There were some funny parts...but overall, the movie moved slow and wasn't cohesive, in my opinion.

Thursday night, I stayed in and watched some Space Ghost. Friday, I enjoyed Happy Hour with some of my fellow coworkers. I had a great time, got home around 7:15 and just relaxed for the rest of the evening.

For the second Saturday in a row--I actually cleaned my room. The rest of the weekend will be fun--we'll be partying with Katie and Mike tonight and enjoying a nice day in Princeton tomorrow!

A Good, Good Weekend.

So it was a good, good weekend.

Friday night, I hung out with Robin and my sister, Ashley. We went to this great coffeehouse in Montclair called Cafe Eclectic. It was fun and relaxing. I enjoyed my vanilla chai latte! It was fun to hang out with two of my favorite girls! Robin slept over too. Saturday, I spent the day cleaning my room. Now don't keel over from the shock! Saturday night, I had pizza, beer and good times with Andy, Dennis, Big Mike and Jenn. After the unexpected snowstorm, Jenn spent the night. Two sleepovers in two nights! Yay, it was great!

Ok, you're all waiting for the latest in the dating news, right? Sigh...it went really well...he came over this afternoon around 12:30....met my family and pets...we went out for lunch and shopping. We came back for video games and tv-watching. Then...dinner with my folks! Scott (yes he has a name!)even pleased my dad by watching the football game with him! So things are going great....and I'm really very happy! Yay! Yay! Yay!!!

Dinner with the Folks

I'm happily surprised to say that things are going well with the new guy. Last night, I went over his house and had dinner with some of his family...sister, parents and dogs...his two and his sister's big dog! I think I impressed his family with my capabilities taming and calming his sister's mutt! So New Guy and I have tentative weekend plans...keep y'all posted!

Flavor of Love

Last winter, I caught a couple episodes of VH1's Strange Love. Ah...the night and day romance between Flavor Flav and Brigitte Nielson. That was one surreal reality show. (Fun fact: they met on the Surreal Life) Well, as you may or may not know, that romance didn't last. Brigitte married somebody else. So, now, single ladies, Flavor Flav is back on the market! Check him out in the ghetto-fabulous version of the Bachelor. The show is titled The Flavor of Love and I caught episode one. There are fifteen chicks left who consider this guy a real catch...gold teeth, big clock and all...I would suggest watching the show for its amusement factor alone!

What a week...

It's certainly not easy to go back to work/school after having a nice, long, relaxing vacation. We had Monday off, so I only worked three days this week so far but it feels like the longest week ever! Yesterday, I ended up at the doctor yet again! Last week, it was for bronchitis. This time, it was a sharp, throbbing pain in the big toe of my left foot. As it turns out, it is an ingrown toenail. Nothing too awful but that means more antibiotic and foot soaks twice a day (ahhh).

Dating Update: Tomorrow is Date #3 with Jdate #6. I have a good feeling about this guy. Our first two dates have been lunch and coffee. Safe choices for the first couple dates. Tomorrow will be a little more risque as we are having dinner and seeing a movie!

New Year, New Me

I heard somebody use that phrase yesterday: "New Year, New Me." It's catchy and I like it--but at the same time, do I want a whole new ME? No, I like quite a bit about myself. I think its perfectly healthy to make one or two New Years Resolutions. But I also think its just as important to think about the good things that we accomplished in 2005. When I first began pondering that question, I couldn't think of anything. Me? What did I accomplish? I got a new car and a new computer. But thats not an accomplishment. Is falling in and out of love an accomplishment? No, I don't think so either. So, you're now wondering, what did I accomplish? I accomplished..."finding" my Jewish self. Thats a pretty important accomplishment, I think. I spent the last 10 years thinking about spirituality and exploring different religions. It wasn't until I began learning about my own that I found a perfect fit. In 2006, my resolution is to continue my healthy eating regimen and working out more. Cheers to all my readers on accomplishing their goals in 2005! Good luck on your 2006 resolutions!

PS...for those of you who were wondering how my date today went...it went well and he says he'll call tonight. I'll keep Y'all posted!

Happy New Year

I hope everybody has a happy and safe New Years Eve tonight! My New Years Eve plans entail a get-together at my brother and sister-in-law's with some friends and family. I'm looking forward to some good food and drink as well--though not too much drink--as I have a New Years afternoon date so a hangover might not be too attractive. See Y'all in 2006!!!!

Ah. Vacation.

I love having time off from school. Its been nice to relax. I've had a couple dates since I've been off from school.

1. Jdate Guy #5 and I went to see the Producers Sunday night. Nice guy. But not for me. A little too nerdy (again, I'm not knocking nerds, I do find many of them attractive!) for me and besides he smelled funny.

2. Jdate Guy #6 and I had lunch in Montclair on Tuesday. We then had coffee, perused some of the shoppes before ending the date. It was fun and he was a nice guy. I'm seeing him again on Sunday. We'll see how it goes.


Today, I'm spending time with my friend, Allison, who I have not seen in a year since she has moved to Arizona. I'm blogging right now from the "black room" of the 100 year old home her parents live in. This is the creepiest room in the house. Spooky! I plan on using some of my giftcards today before shopping for bridesmaid dresses later on for my cousin Andrea's wedding. Busy day!

Happy Holidays!

Happy Chanukah! Merry Christmas! Happy Kwanzaa! Happy New Year! Happy Winter Solstice! Happy Diwali! Did I skip any holidays? I think I got most of them there! Anyway, to all my readers, I hope you enjoyed your day!

Congratulations!!!

First off, congratulations are in order to Jaime and Corey, who just got engaged. I don't think Jaime even knows I have a blog, so I will have to email her to tell her to check this. They are tentatively planning a December '06 wedding! I am thrilled--and of course, that means I need to start saving my money to fly down to Louisiana! (For those of you who don't know, Jaime and I began our friendship as pen pals at the age of 15! Since then, I've flown down there once, and she's been up here three times. Crazy!)

My apologies to Jennifer and all of my faithful readers who most likely checked my blog on a near-daily basis wondering, "Where is Marisa? Why is she not posting?" Well, I am alive...but I've been suffering a cold again! Ouch! Throat aches! Eyes burn! I'm so congested and I have the desire to sleep for days on end. I took Tuesday off to rest and rested most of last weekend. However, I did have the opportunity to take Dave out for Indian food for his birthday last weekend! Happy belated Birthday, Dave! Also, happy belated birthday, Ashley!

Sunday, my grandma and I spent a glorious day together. First, we had lunch at Panera Bread. Then we went to a "Tea with the Author" at my temple. We had the chance to meet Myla Goldberg, who wrote the best-selling novel, Bee Season (which I highly recommend).

So, now its off to bed to rest this sore throat of mine...

Surprised?

Congrats! You are a Dave Matthews Band NERD! You
eat, breathe, and drink DMB. You've seen at
least 10-20 concerts, met a band member or two,
and trade their live concerts on CD-R. You
rule, and know what music should sound like.


What Dave Matthews Band fan are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Weekend Ramblings

This weekend, I saw my boys play at Madison Square Garden two nights in a row! Friday night, I partied too much with my fellow ants to really enjoy the show. But thats okay! We had a blast at P.J. Clark's before the show. Saturday night, I stayed sober and enjoyed an amazing concert. What an experience!!!! We danced and sang and partied at Blarney Stone after the show. I caught the 1.40 train and was home in my bed by 3am. Good, good times.

Sunday, I had a third date--and I think it went well. But--I can't relax. Questions ponder through my brain, such as...Does he like me? Doesn't he like me? Why hasn't he emailed me today? When will he call? Will he call? I know--I need to relax. But thats not something I'm good at. Anyway...we'll see what happens with this one and I'll keep y'all posted.

More Worst Dates

I guess my bad date story wasn't that hideous. My friend sent me this link and some of the stories are really funny. Though--glad they didn't happen to me. JDates Gone Wrong

A random list of things that make me smile

Isn't there something magical about...

The first snowfall of Winter.
First kisses.
New Friendships.
Hot Cocoa.
Cuddling with somebody utterly cuddlicious on a cold night by a fire.
Heated blankets.
Dogs.
Cats purring.
Mittens.
The beach on a cold, snowy, peaceful, winters day.

I hope we can all experience some or all of these things by the end of Winter.

Worst. Date. Ever.

Okay. So maybe it wasn't the worst date ever...but it definately ranks up there in the top five. I'm recovering from a sinus infection and didn't even feel up to it, but had plans to meet this guy at the Cheesecake Factory. I had never met him before--or even talked to him on the phone! He was from an online dating site--shhh! Don't tell anybody! lol . Anyway, we had dinner and I was not feeling him whatsover. Me and a dorky pharmacist? Not going to happen! The clincher? He tried to pay a $5 tip on a $43 bill! Cheap!!!!!!!! I threw a couple extra dollars in for the tip (this guy didn't think I needed to. He said $5 was a good tip. Oh boy.) After the date, we shook hands and he told me to email him.

PS I normally don't call people dorky. I'm a nice person. I wouldn't call him geeky--because, its kind of cool to be geeky nowadays.

Luckiness

I decided to take Norton for a hike on Sunday because of the warm temperatures. However, the trail was muddier and icier than I thought it would be--and leaving the Watchung Reservation, my white and pink Saucony's were now muddy and pink. Not too pleased about that. I decided it was time to put some money into hiking sneakers, because after I wash these babies, I don't want them turning muddy again. After all, the Saucony's are only a month or so old!

But, guess what? Today was my lucky day. In the teachers room was a bag marked, "Up for grabs to whoever can use them--size 8 men's Merrell low hikers." So they're used. Who cares? They fit perfectly. I now don't have to buy a pair of hiking sneakers--I got a great pair for free! Thanks to my fellow co-worker!

One Word

I took part in an email forward in which you get emails from your friends describing you in one word. Here is what I've gotten so far: inspiring, fun-loving, quirky, caring and energetic. If I get some more responses, I'll post those too.

Buy Nothing Day

Everyone knows that tomorrow is Black Friday. I plan on staying as far from the mall as possible. Shopping on Black Friday is JUST not fun! A group called Adbusters is organising Buy Nothing Day tomorrow. Its exactly as the title suggests. Adbusters wants you to stay away from buying anything tomorrow to make a stand against this consumerist society we live in. They have lots of things you can do to get involved if you want to. My favorite is push a cart around WalMart, buy some items, and then return them. You can do this all day, they suggest. Check out the link and see if you want to get involved. Its pretty interesting.

Best Inventions Ever

I'm sorry I haven't posted in close to a week. Know why? I've been very busy enjoying my 2 new toys--very possibly the greatest inventions ever.

1. I purchased a pressure cooker from Bed, Bath and Beyond. Women my mother's age told me,"Don't do it!" They said, "They're not safe!" I'm glad I didn't listen. The new cookers are 100 percent safe and reduce cooking time by up to 70 %. It looks like a regular 6 quart pot with a lock-on lid. The food can, therefore, cook at high temperatures at high pressure. So far, I've cooked dry beans for an Indian soup called sambar in 10 minutes as oppose to an hour and half. I've steamed artichokes in 9 minutes as oppose to 45! This thing also is capable of cooking risotto in 7 minutes WITHOUT the constant stirring! Did I say Wow?

2. I purchased a heated blanket from Target . For $32, I got the twin-sized--its only for me and Norton. It plugs in and has 10 different heat settings. Its wonderful. I go to bed all warm and cozy--and Norton loves it too. Its even machine washable! By the way, if you click on the link, you'll see the blanket I'm talking about. However, the website states its more money and its out of stock. I bought it in the store for less last week.

Yum Yum

I must say I've managed to impress my taste buds with my cooking skills as of late. A few years ago, I did a lot of Indian cooking--but stopped because it was time-consuming and much work. Well, this weekend, I decided it was time to start preparing Indian food again. Sunday, I payed a visit to Patel's Cash and Carry in Iselin. I bought tons of food for really cheap! I enjoyed my shopping experience there--its really amazing for all of your senses!

Sunday afternoon, I prepared a raita-like salad. It was like yogurt with cucumbers, tomatoes and onions and spices! Yum! Also, fragrant basmati rice and a sambar with okra and cauliflower. Sambar is a thick soup of beans--spicy and yummy! With what I cooked on Sunday, I've had lunch so far every day this week!

Monday night, I decided it was time for some more cooking. This time it was a tomato stew with okra, cauliflower, chilis, spices and panir cheese (farmers cheese, cut into chunks)! Yum!

Last night, I had dinner with my friend, Subash. He cooked dosas (a tangy flatbread) with more sambar (mango!) and coconut chutneys! Iddlis too (steamed balls made similiar to dosas)! Tonight, I'm ordering in Indian with another friend! Anybody game for Indian? I'm happy to make it or eat it anytime!

Vermont-Dreamin'

I'm now home in New Jersey. Home from beautiful, chilly, snowy, windy, sunny Vermont. Only there for 2 days but depressed to not be there anymore. Is that a sign that my home is there and not here? This happens everytime I go there. I come home and get sad and depressed. Today its going to be 65 degrees in NJ. What is that about? Its almost winter! In Vermont, we ate good food, drank good drink, did some antiquing and shopping, drove up mountains and bundled up with hats and mittens and scarves. We met some nice people and learned that its still much cheaper to live in Vermont than NJ, even though prices ARE rising there too. I sorta made a new friend there too--which leads me to believe that if I moved, how hard could it be to make some friends? But do I want to leave my friends and family here? Of course not...I don't know what I'll do. Stay or leave, I don't know. I'm 27 and single with only a dog and cat to care for. This is is my chance for greatness and bravery and trying something I've always wanted to do...I'll keep you posted.

Two

Tag, you're it. Only I'm tagging myself. I am a sucka for these questionaires and found a new one on a blog I love reading. This is from Jesser's blog.

Two.

2 names you go by
1. Marisa
2. Mars

2 parts of your heritage
1. American
2. Jewish

2 things that scare you
1. Never finding my ONE
2. Never getting my life under control.


2 of your everyday essentials
1. Cell Phone
2. my Mac (appropriately named Candy Apple Red)

2 things you are wearing right now
1. fuzzy, cozy striped socks
2. ratty but warm zip-down sweater

2 of your favorite bands or musical artists (at the moment)
1. The Redwalls
2. Dave Matthews Band

2 favorite songs (at the moment)
1. Build a Bridge(by Redwalls)
2. Hurry up Sunrise (by North Mississippi Allstars and Lucinda Williams)

2 things you want in a relationship (other than real love)
1. Good kissing
2. Cuddling

2 truths
1. I am the most disorganized person in the world.
2. I have the attention span of a 2 yr old.

2 physical things that appeal to you (in the opposite sex)
1. eyes
2. smile

2 of your favorite hobbies
1. Travel
2. reading

2 things you want really badly
1. To find my ONE
2. To move out

2 places you want to go on vacation
1. Europe
2. India

2 things you want to do before you die
1. get married and have kids
2. travel the world

2 ways that you are stereotypically a dude/chick
1. I am sensitive.
2. I gossip and talk too much.

2 things you are thinking about now
1. Leaving for Vermont in the morning!
2. I miss my pupster, Mr. Norton!

2 stores you shop at
1. Target!!
2. Barnes and Noble

Friendship

If you have friends, you're the luckiest girl or guy on the planet. If you have great friends, thats even better! Someone asked me online tonight, if it bothers me to be single. Isn't it hard, this person, asked me. That irked me! First of all, this person is single too--and I am not going to settle just so I'm not single any longer! When I meet the right person, I'll know it. Do I get lonely sometimes? Don't we all?

I'm chilling to some James Taylor and just listened to a sweet song he sings called "Fourth of July," about the foundations of a new friendship. We forget how exciting it can be to make a new friend! Staying up talking and learning about one another! Friends are grand! Here's an excerpt from the song I gaily speak of...

Shall I tell it again how we started as friends
who would run into one another now and again.
At the Yippee Cai O or the Mesa Dupree, or a dozen different everyday places to be.
I was living alone, we were ever so brave on the telephone.
Would you care to come down for fireworks time,
we could each just reach, we step out of line.

Smile. :) Smile big!

Good Tunes

In my car, I am usually listening to one of the following--my Ipod through my crappy iTrip wireless transmitter, a cd in my six disc changer (usually Ben Folds Five, Dave Matthews, Jamie Cullum or the Velvet Underground), or WFUV. WFUV (90.7 in the NY area) is a public radio station and they actually play good music. You can go on their website as well and listen live or listen to archives of past performances of various artists. It's great. I am forever learning about new musicians--tonight discovered an awesome band called the Redwalls. Check them out. This week is their Fall Fundraising drive--they are totally member supported. I did my thing and became a member.

Beach

I also enjoyed some quiet time at the shore. I walked around Point Pleasant Beach. I checked out some shops, walked the boardwalk and the beach. Here are a couple of my beach pictures.

Halloween Party

Saturday night, I attended a Halloween party with Matt and Allison. Robin came too. Here are some funny pics from it. The first is Allison and I. Can you guess what I'm dressed up as? You won't guess what Allison was. Some dorky woman she knows. The second pic is Matt kicking some guys balls.

Happy Halloween!

I have not posted in over a week, golly geez. This past week marked the passing of another year...a year since I started dating Rich...a year since I almost lost my father. A lot happened in a year.

1. Rich and I began dating October 22 of last Fall.
2. My father fell off his horse and almost died on October 26, 2004, my Grandma's birthday. He spent 4 months in ICU then 2 different rehab facilities. He finally came home in February. He didn't begin working and driving again until September...and is still recovering and going to rehab.
3. Karen's father passed away this winter. It was devastating to all who knew him. He was a wonderful, generous, giving man. He is missed by his family and friends..he touched many lives.
4. For 26 yrs, I'd been a non-practicing Jewish woman. Jewish in name only. This year, I began the exhilirating process of learning about my religion and culture. Its been fascinating and wonderful! I've been taking classes, attending study groups, services...I gave up bread for Passover and fasted for Yom Kippur. For the first time in my life, I can identify with what it means to be a Jewish woman.
5. Engagements. Lots of them. Ryan and Lauren (yay, I'm going to have a sister-in-law!). Karen and Chris. Joanna and Brian. Gene and Jennie. Matt and Allison. Andrea and Frank. And I'm in three of those weddings--Ryan and Lauren's, Karen and Chris', Andrea and Frank's.
6. Shayla, our dear golden retriever was put to sleep, over the summer. She was a good, sweet pup.
7. Rich and I broke up.

And, a year later...life goes on. This year, Grandma didn't have to celebrate her birthday at the Au Bon Pain at the Morristown Memorial Hospital. I am spending time discovering myself...spending time with friends...growing up and putting my life back on track. And this Halloween...I'm not spending it pacing the ICU waiting room...dreading those moments when I'd have to see my father attached to millions of tubes and machines...I can spend it laughing and smiling with laughing, smiling children, chocolate, my dog and my family. Ahhh...new beginnings...relationships end...but friendships begin...seasons change and we all grow.

Knitting Away

Knit, knit, purl, purl, knit, knit, purl, purl...and so it goes...will I ever finish this scarf in time for Grandma's birthday? I think not. Oh well, it may just become a Chanukah gift. I am knitting and purling like a madwoman to complete this ribbed scarf from the Stitch and Bitch Knitters Handbook. If I ever complete my projects, then perhaps, I will be able to knit the alligator mittens that I'm dying to knit!

New Beginnings

It's time for new beginnings, isn't it? The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur is over--its a new year. Its now Sukkot--a harvest holiday (supposedly, the very holiday that our Thanksgiving was based on!). But the fun part of Sukkot involves eating outside in a hut called a Sukkah. In this season of Autumn, I am blessed with many things...good friends...family...my health...a chance to reconcile with an old friend. Deep breath. Sometimes, we need to stop and smell the daisies. Its always good to appreciate whats good in your life.

Funny story...

This morning, I'm getting ready for work and all dressed in cordoroy pants. Dad says to me in surprise, "You can wear pants to work????!!!!!" Me: "Duh. Its not the 60's."

Guys don't Get why...

Cosmo came out with their Cosmo Men issue this month! Yippee!! Something in it cracked me up--it is in the 10 Things Guys don't Get about Women article...

#7 "Good Guy Games"
Women complain that all guys are jerks, but if one calls too soon after a date, you get freaked out and tell all your friends he's a stalker.

Its sooo funny but so true...

Autumn

It finally feels like Autumn. Its sunny with a cold breeze--it was perfect dog park weather today. Norton and I enjoyed an outing to Petco and then the Echo Lake Dog Park. I enjoyed chatting with another fellow dog mommy while Norton ran around with his doggy friends. Now I'm attempting to prepare for Fall by taking out the long sleeves and packing away the sandals. Aaah...next dimemna? What to be for Halloween?

Pugnacious

Misty morning
Rain drizzles
Sleepy eyes
Pontiac Vibe leading my Matrix
down the soggy Parkway today
I see a silhouette of a man and dog
A little puppydog
They snuggle up and share eskimo kisses
Explorer dog!
Struts to the back of the vehicle and sniffs
Oh! He's a pug!
Back to the front of the car
He's on his hind legs with his paws on the windshield.
Nothing to see, Pugster.
Kisses his Mr. Master once again.
Can I get some of that sugar please?
On this cold, dreary Friday morning.

L'Shana Tova!

L'Shana Tova! Happy New Year! As many of you know, it was just Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Lucky me, it fell on my birthday, so I had the day off from work! I spent much of the day at services at the temple then a lovely service at the local park. I visited with my grandfather--and enjoyed a lovely family dinner for my birthday and the holiday. My friend Subash also came over to have dinner with my family. My father, always being the strange character, gave Subash a few nicknames. Poor Subash, who is now "Shoebox" and "Superman" to my father. Oy vey! All in all, it was a great day!

Apples and More Apples

This weekend found me with a terrible case of pharyngitis. My throat was scratchy, my head was pounding and I felt yuckier than I had felt in a while. Saturday morning, I ended up at the doctor--I was convinced it was strep throat again. Lucky for me, it was only pharyngitis but I got a referral for a throat specialist so I can see about getting these damn tonsils out once and for all!

Later on Saturday, I ended up in the City with my familia for dinner at Carmine's in Times Square. We walked around, checked out the huge Toys R Us, Sephora, and Virgin MegaStore. Then, I enjoyed a Girls Night In with my sister and future sister-in-law.

Today, I picked plenty o' apples at Battleview Orchards in Freehold. Then Robin cooked me supper and we walked around the Freehold Mall. It was a fun weekend and I think I'm ready for my upcoming birthday and the Jewish Holidays. Yippee!!!

Free Movies

I am so excited to find that my public library stocks some great dvd rentals. Are they still called rentals if they are free? Two nights ago, I watched Garden State. It made me laugh and cry. Tonight, I watched Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, another superb choice. It was another one that made me cry. Seems like every movie makes me cry nowadays.

In any event, its nice to know that there are some movies that are different than the rest. I cannot stand Hollywood Blockbusters that are all the same movie repackaged with different actors and different stunts and the like. I need sleep now.

Nasty and Grumpy

Today was one of those days. The sky fell. The air was harsh and cold. The wind blew through to my soul. By the time I got out of school, the sky was blue and it was beautiful, chilly, cold fall weather. But it was too late. The damage was done. I was tired, grumpy, and irritable. It was a helluva long day for no particular reason. At dinner time, I was given the "gossip" that a cousin had "run into" a particular ex at the drug store. WHY did my mother feel the need to tell me this? No clue but it put me into an angry, hostile mood. I ate like a pig, and after knitting some, decided to fall asleep. Plus a certain friend is not speaking to me. Maybe it is my fault. I don't know. Today is one of those days that my soul feels like a big black hole. Is there help please or will I keep falling and falling???

Dalai Lama Photos

I was lucky to be able to check out two books written by His Holiness at my public library today. Here is a picture I took of the Dalai Lama yesterday. The guy in the red (yes, it looks like a dot!) is His Holiness!

Happier Days and Happier Dreams

Yesterday morning, I was one out of 36,000 or so at Rutgers Stadium. Why were we there? A football game, you are assuming, right? Nope, we were there to see the Dalai Lama in the flesh. The lecture was titled “Peace, War, and Reconciliation” and it was to be delivered by none other than Nobel Peace Prize winner, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. Although the presentation did not start until 10.30 AM, beginning at 6.30 am were to be films of Tibetan culture and musical entertainment. I arrived at 9 am and enjoyed some throat singing and Buddhist chanting. It was very beautiful! The Dalia Lama was given an honory doctorates degree of Rutgers University. The Dalai Lama expressed his thoughts on receiving this honor--he thought of himself to be very lucky to receive this degree without any of the hard work! The Dalai Lama lectured for about 40 minutes and then spent some time doing a question and answer session. He really is an amazing man who strives for world peace, the abolishment of all nuclear weapons and resolution of all world conflicts. Here are some thoughts of the Dalai Lama's that I will share.

In today's society, we are all interdependant on one another. America is dependant on Europe, Europe on Asia, etc. In today's world, war is outdated. We should be getting along, not killing.

Killing is not morally right--on any grounds, whether it's one man shooting another for drugs--or one man shooting another in war.

The Dalai Lama's English wasn't exactly the sharpest, so some of what he said was kind of funny. He was trying to say there are evil people in all religions. But what he said was--there are mischievous Jews, mischievous Christians, mischievous Muslims. When there are only a few of the "mischievous" in that religion--it makes no sense to discriminate against the religion.

May we all have happier days and happier dreams.

The Dalai Lama visits Rutgers.

Girls' Night Out

Well, I enjoyed a lovely 24 hour outing with a few of my girlfriends. As many of you know, I won a free Marriott stay a while back--and I finally had a chance to use it. Amber and my future-sister-in-law, Lauren met me up at the Park Ridge Marriott in Northern Bergen County, NJ. What a beautiful hotel! The room was wonderful--fluffy duvets and a bathrobe to use! And a balcony overlooking--a roof? We ate dinner at the Melting Pot with Jennifer. We had a great time--and I can assure you we stuffed ourselves to capacity. We started with the cheddar cheese fondue, then salads and a vegetarian fondue dish for Amber. Jennifer and I gorged ourselves with the chocolate fondue with every possible dipper imaginable--cheesecake, pound cake, brownies, fruit. It was decadent. By the end of the meal, we lost all our manners and began double dipping. It was a riot. Amber was the only one who was not tempted by the dessert. God Bless her.

After the Melting Pot, the Irish Pub in our hotel was calling our names. So Lauren and I had a couple beers--Amber had a Shirley Temple. Next morning, after Amber had to leave, Lauren and I enjoyed some FREE room service for breakfast and a shopping excurstion to the Christmas Tree Shops. Then lunch and gaming at the Dave and Busters. We had a blast!

Trails

I love hiking! It's just amazing being outside with my dog, Norton, and wandering the trails. You never know what you may find along a trail. You may take one trail because you think its going to lead you to an extraordinary viewpoint, steep climbs, or a body of water. But sometimes, you may take a trail which loops you in a giant circle. There are no bodies of water or viewpoints at the end. The trail may be full of mirages, who knows. This barren trail leaves you sad and angry. But what if, indirectly, this trail leads you to another? This other trail is YOUR kind of trail! What if the first trail takes you to a second trail which is full of scenic overlooks, waterfalls--and beautiful places to lay in the grass and eat a picnic lunch. So in that case, should you be angry at yourself for taking the foolish path--or grateful that it led you to one you were looking for along? I think the answer is pretty obvious. I've just stepped foot onto that second trail. It left me smiling and laughing--and we'll see if its the trail I've been seeking. To answer my own question--I don't make regrets. Everything happens for a reason--it's all part of a master plan, isn't it?

Life is Good.

Life is sweet, ain't it? Sometimes, you get knocked down--but then you get back up and you are stronger than ever. Don't ever be too busy to appreciate the little things in life. Here are some that make me grin.

1. The fresh smell of the air after raining. Its like magic.

2. Dewey drops of water on flower petals.

3. Wintery Snowy Kisses (I have mentioned that one before but find it SO worth repeating).

4. Norton jumping in the air because he is so happy to see me when I come home from work!

5. Cozy, fuzzy, slipper socks.


Today I started my day on a kind of sad note. Driving to work on the parkway, there was a dead little dog on the side of the road. It really did break my heart. But later on, I saw two wonders of nature. At least to me, they were. Driving home from the gym after work, I noticed two or three deer feeding on some grass. However, one of those deer was a young buck with growing antlers! It's not too rare to see deer in this area--but it's not everyday you see a buck!

Even later on that evening...my mom called me downstairs to see a huge bug on the outside of the sliding glass door. It was a praying mantis! It was amazing. He was big and beautiful! Like a martian! I looked up some information on the praying mantis. Did you know that along with eating insects, they can eat mice and hummingbirds too? Ewww...

In this grand thing called life, we have great moments and horrible, sad ones too. Don't forget the little things in life though. If you slow down, stop and smell the flowers, you never know what you might find.

I've been listening to The Heart of the Matter by Don Henley. Its beautiful and though its 6 minutes long, I've listened to it a gazillion times over the past few days. I would like to share some of the words because I think they are so meaningful.

The more I know, the less I understand
All the things I thought I knew, I'm learning again
I've been tryin' to get down to the Heart of the Matter
But my will gets weak
And my thoughts seem to scatter
But I think it's about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore

These times are so uncertain
There's a yearning undefined
...People filled with rage
We all need a little tenderness
How can love survive in such a graceless age
The trust and self-assurance that can lead to happiness
They're the very things we kill, I guess
Pride and competition cannot fill these empty arms
And the work I put between us,
Doesn't keep me warm

There are people in your life who've come and gone
They let you down and hurt your pride
Better put it all behind you; life goes on
You keep carrin' that anger, it'll eat you inside
-------------------------------------

Isn't that what life is about? Remembering? Forgiving? Learning from your experiences. Letting your heart free of all the anger and hatred and sorrow. Then you will be free to love again.

Garden State Equality

Tonight, Dave and I enjoyed an evening in Montclair. I wandered my favorite bookstore and then we had dinner at one of my favorite Indian restaurants, Udupi Village. After dinner, on to our next destination--the Montclair State University Student Center. We attended a Town Meeting put on by a group called Garden State Equality . This group is a nonprofit and its made up of straights and gays alike. They are all about trying to get gays the right to marry in NJ. There were 437 people present at this meeting--it was an amazing turnout. The focus of the meeting was clergy--so many clergy from various faiths attended this meeting and spoke. Some were straight, some were gay, some had gay sons and/or daughters. But they all supported the equal rights of gays to get married. The stories were heartwrenching. It makes me so angry that in the year 2005, people honestly don't think gay people should be given equal rights. Give me a break. I get especially angry thinking about the stupid, ignorant people out there. Check out the website if you're interested. I am going to do what I can to help right this wrong. Sometimes, I feel that I cannot do enough. But tonight, I came across a great quote.

"The work of an individual still remains the spark that moves mankind forward." ---Igor Sikorsky

New Beginnings

Its been 2 weeks and 2 days since a certain person and I parted ways. Here are some thoughts of the day. When you are in a relationship, you naturally rely on the other person to some extent, right? They are your favorite person and your best friend. When you go through a devastating breakup, you realize that you NEVER really could count on them, could you? The rug is pulled out from under you and they never want to see nor talk to you again. Okay. So who can you rely on? Your wonderful friends, that is true. They would do anything for you. But, really, there is one person you CAN rely on.

YOURSELF. I believe its true that if you want others to love you, you need to love yourself first and foremost. After a breakup is a good time to evaluate your life and get to know yourself. Interesting that this is the month of Elul in the Jewish calender. It's the time of year that, if you are a Jew, you are to evaluate the last year. We are to make amends and ask for forgiveness for what we have done wrong. Right after the month of Elul, comes the high holy days, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. In the Jewish calender, its a new year--and a fresh start. These are deeply solemn days and I'm looking forward to observing them for the first time this year. I'm starting fresh on my own and will be working to ENRICH myself.

Autumn will be arriving very soon. Autumn is my favorite time of the year.

Why I Love Autumn

1. Apple Picking and baking fresh apple goods
2. Pumpkin picking and carving jack-o-lanterns
3. Jumping into a pile of freshly raked leaves!
4. Starbucks' Caramel Apple Cider on a brisk day!
5. My birthday (October 4)
6. Halloween
7. The feel of brand new school clothes on a chilly day
8. Zipping up my Knee High Boots after unpacking them from their storage spot.
9. The first snowflakes melting on my tongue (possibly at the near end of Autumn)
10. Days off from school for Holidays and Teachers Convention!

Drunken Phone Calls

Last night proved to be an enjoyable evening at the Polish Home. Several friends showed up and we had good, good times, drinking, chilling, and playing pool. Steve and I drank the most, I'm pretty sure of that. Our friends pretended not to know us when we began dancing. An interesting but true fact--I suck at pool, but I'm even worse when I'm drunk. I actually made the white ball jump off the table. After the bar, we went to our local diner. Steve and I left our cars.

Walking into the diner, I grabbed the SAT Coaching brochure, and lo and behold, the names of the "coaches" I recognize from high school! They are teachers and one, was a real wuss and the bowling league coach. So what does a drunk girl do at 2am but call the numbers until the people get so pissed that they take their phones off the hook.

The climate of the diner got chillingly exciting when Tom the bartender walked in. I hear other patrons calling out his name and I start yelling for free drinks. Some guy with long hair comes over and lo and behold, he remembers this bowling coach too, and wants to call him for himself. But the phone was off the hook.

I received a voicemail from a woman at 6.47 am and she was none too thrilled that she received a call at 2am. She advised me to call back during normal business hours.

Frustration!!!!

Well, its the (almost) end of my first week of school. Remember that hollow feeling in my chest? Now, its been replaced with much frustration and anger. I'm pissed off for a lot of reason and VERY ANGRY. It will be nice to kick back a few at the Polish Home tonight!!!

Vent--I am tired of people being self-centered and not being considerate of others' feelings.

Activism

Tonight, I attended my local Democracy for America meetup with my great friend, Dave. It certainly feels great to attend a gathering of like-minded political folks. It's interesting to go to these meetings--I certainly do learn a lot! And, contrary to what some morons think--Democracy for America is not a communist organization! Its an organization that supports progressive democratics! Jeez!!! I just wanted to voice my opinion!

Much too much...

I feel like I am dealing with much too much. With the onset of the school year, I stress myself out and cause myself massive anxiety. I am coping with my own problems and feeling guilt that I make a big deal out of heartbreak when there are worse problems out there. But doesn't it feel worse than death when you're experiencing it? School tomorrow. Gotta make my lunch and shower and pick a first day of school outfit. What to wear? 1. 2. 3. DEEP BREATH!!!!

Late Night Wanderings 'Bout Town

I enjoyed a fun and rather eventful Saturday night in my humble hometown last evening. It started with Katie and Karen coming over and we went out for dinner at Tony's Pizza. This is also where my sister waitresses and we had the best waitress in the world! After a yummy dinner, we headed to the Polish Home, my favorite local watering hole. There, we hung out with Bill, Bret, Chris, and Jenn. They have an awesome jukebox and pool for $1! So we played a couple games of pool and drank some beer. At closing time, Jenn, Bret, Bill, and myself were the last of our group left. Our next destination was Sherban's Diner, where I ate way too much food. Funny story regarding the diner. We had 2 designated drivers--Jenn and Bret. So I get in the car with Jenn and Bill gets in with Bret. Jenn and I are getting in the car, and 2 hoodlums are waving at us from inside the diner. I alternate telling Jenn, "Lets get out of here," and blowing this one dude kisses! Finally, I tell her to hightail it because he is now not in the diner but came outside after us. So, as Jenn is pulling away, I open my window, and am blowing the guy kisses and telling him I love him. I didn't mean it. It was just pretty darn funny okay.

After Sherbans, we headed to the playground. Let me tell you that this one school in my town has an awesome playground and we were there for hours playing around. There were moments I laughed so hard, my abdomen was hurting!

So now its 5am. Time to go home. Bill had to be at work at 9. But, Jenn wanted coffee. So we head to Dunkin Donuts and drink more coffee and eat some donuts. We were there until 6am! Funny thing--at 5.30 am, in walks our bartender, Tom, from the Polish Home. He is dressed for golf and says he didn't sleep much. I told him we haven't slept yet. Tom already knew that. He saw us at the diner, he says, and then here at Dunkin Donuts.

Anyway, that was my fun and crazy Saturday night. Anybody up for partying tonight??? ;)

End of Summer!

Well, the end of the summer is finally upon us and I am trying to enjoy every last minute of it! Thursday night, with my family off to Penn State to peruse colleges for Ashley, I had a girls' sleepover! Karen and Jenn R. spent the night and it was wonderful to have 2 of my closest friends over! Karen made me a very sweet card and Jenn brought me Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul. Did I mention I have the best friends in the whole wide world?

Friday, Karen and I took the train into the city. Karen wanted to go check out record stores, so we went to the Virgin Megastore first. Then we took the subway to the village--one of my favorite parts of the city! We walked around in the hot summer sun and visited a shop I adore called Sabon. Its like an Israeli Bath and Body--they are very expensive, but have wonderful products. I bought a lavandar foam scrub and a mud mask (with mud from the dead sea!)! They even gave me a rose petal soap sample! Their stuff is just amazing and can't wait to order more of their stuff online!

Last night, I went to Fox and Hound with Robin and Jessica. We had a nice time--and I had another sleepover. Robin slept over and we took Norton hiking. We had a good workout and Norton had a good swim to boot! I will post some pics! I may even be able to post the video...not sure about that though!

Help...

I just made a donation to a group called America's Second Harvest to help those affected by Katrina. They work to bring food to those in need. If you can, why not make a donation to them or the Red Cross ? We really are VERY lucky, aren't we, when you think of what those people are dealing with down there?

A New Day!

Yesterday, I had a very good day and night. I spent some time at working going through boxes. Then I had a lovely lunch with some wonderful friends--current and and former coworkers, including Jennifer and Jenn! After enjoying a very long lunch at the California Pizza Kitchen, I wandered around Borders. I had a couple hours of home time (knitting--yessss!) then went out with Bill and Bret to Flanagans. After Flanagans, Bill and I celebrated his new job at the Italian American Club Bar, then I insisted we play on the playground equipment for the school across the street. It was grandiose!

Yesterday, I ribbed 2 rows on my latest knitting project. It will be a gorgeous multi-colored hat, in shades of red, orange and purple. Its a beautiful yarn. I've decided to use my blog as an outlet, and post 25 goals (my book says I should). They can be long-term or short-term. So here they go.

1. Rescue farm animals.

2. Plant a garden.

3. Eat falafel in Jerasulam.

4. Drive to Montana next summer and check out the Going to the Sun Road at Glacier National Park.

5. Go to Western Canada and check out the great outdoors, British Columbia and Vancouver.

6. DRIVE to Alaska.

7. Buy a house with a lovely wrap-around porch.

8. Get a little dog to be friends with my big dog. Maybe a pug.

9. Drive across Europe.

10. Learn to crochet.

11. Become fluent in another language.

12. Be a nicer person.

13. Become more organized.

14. Begin balancing a budget.

15. Go on more hikes.

16. Put myself before any guys.

17. When I'm ready, meet a fabulous guy who is crazy about me and wants to tell the whole world how much he loves me!

18. Have a gaggle of kids one day. Well, not a gaggle. Two or three. I just like that word!

19. Go to Centralia, Pa. They've had a fire going on under their town for over 50 years!

20. See the Pacific Northwest. Washington and Oregon.

21. Go to Wine Country, California.

22. Go back to Burlington, Vermont.

23. Visit every continent!!!!

24. Remember all my friends' birthdays on time every year!

25. Write my own book.

Completed!!!

Last night, I spent the night hanging out with Karen, Chris, and Karen's 17 yr old brother watching movies and drinking. It gave me an excellent opportunity to finish my scarf! Thanks to Karen's mom for helping me fix my oopsies this morning...and I even figured out how to do fringe, thanks to the book I got the pattern from! Let me know what you think! I can't wait for it to get cold!

Extraordinary Me

We all have those devils and angels that live within us. The devils point out our failures and insecurities and the angels point out our strong points and tell us we'll be okay. Sooo...thanks to some suggestions from Dave, maybe I'll list some of the things that make me extraordinary...the angels are making me do this, I swear!

1. I'm strong (sometimes).
2. I can love.
3. I have faith.
4. I'm wacky, fun, and unique...I'm ME.
5. I've been hurt before and I've bouced back. I can do it again.

5 Goals

1. Engage in a healthier lifestyle (ie No more chocolate and go to the gym!)!
2. Keep up with my knitting. Learn to knit alligator mittens (from Stitch and Bitch Nation).
3. Spend time with ME. Work on loving me.
4. Spend time with my wonderful, amazing, awesome, loving friends. I have the best
friends in the world. Really.
5. Stay away from dating for a long period of time.

Knitting Away!

Well, my knitting really is taking off with a passion! I am doing well with the chunky orange yarn and size 35 needles I bought a couple days ago. I am knitting a warm and soft, pumpkin colored scarf. Its wonderful! So much in fact, that a couple friends saw it and asked me to knit them an orange scarf just like it! But imagine that? I knit everyone I know an orange scarf? I told them no. Any color but orange!

My Brilliant eMac

Well, well, well, I finally did it. With my brand-spanking-new-no-APR-for-6-months-Visa, I got my eMac. Wow, life is certainly sweeter on a Mac, isn't it? I absolutely love it. Everything is fun and easy on this baby. I've been enjoying creating a documentary of Norton on iMovie. iPhoto is absolutely brilliant--the photos on here that I took look 1000 times better than they looked on my Dad's Dell. I love the photo quality and even the red eye reduction works! It didn't work on my Camedia program that came with my digital camera! I've already downloaded some fun widgets. Dancing Monkeys and Hula Girls and a Tigergotchi thing. My sister downloaded the HotorNot widget because I love rating people on there. If you can't get these widgets (if you don't have a Mac), then go to this site (www.hotornot.com) and have some fun. Sorry, I couldn't insert a link. Blogger doesn't like me today and won't let me do it! I'm sure my blog will soon get much cooler because I'm using a Mac. I'm sure I will get better at computing now.

MacMacMacMacMacMacMac...

I want a Mac! An eMac to be more specific! I've really wanted one for the past year but really hope to get one very soon! I spent some time in the Short Hills Apple store last night with a very helpful sales guy last night. I really really want one! It will be my first Mac, but I hear once you go Mac, you never go back! If anyone who reads this uses a Mac, I'd love comments! That would be tres cool!

Last night, I hung out with some friends, and we saw the movie 40 Year old Virgin. It was sooo funny, go see it, go see it!

My Mini-Break

Mini-Break. Thats what they call short vacations or weekends away in Britain. At least thats what I learned by reading British chick-lit and watching Bridget Jones. So I partook (is that a word?) in a mini-break up in Watkins Glen, New York. Thats Schuyler County and Watkins Glen sits right on Seneca Lake, the largest of the finger lakes in New York State. What a beautiful area! Watkins Glen is actually a village! It's a small town that (with the exception of a yucky Walmart) is wonderfully uncommercialized. In lieu of a Starbucks, there are two delightful cafe/coffehouses. One is a bookshop, the other is a deli-cafe. There is a fabulous bar and grille that brews its own beer! It is called the Crooked Rooster in case y'all were wondering. There is plenty of fun to be had in this town and Robin and I sure did have fun!

We stayed at a rustic and clean motel which combined the wooded atmosphere of a campground with the convenience of bathrooms and televisions. Our first day, we enjoyed activities such as walking near the water, checking out the shoppes and buying some important supplies, such as Zima, hand sanitizer and a beach towel (I know, I forgot). Lucky us, they were featuring a free movie in the park! So Robin and I layed under the stars and watched Hitch! It was a cute movie!

Wednesday was a big day for us. We started the day bright and early by patronizing our favorite cafes in town and then hit the kayak rental on the lake at 10 AM. The water was smooth as glass and we were excited to hit the lake in our double kayak rental. I've kayaked a couple times before, but this was Robin's first time. We were sailing smoothly, until we realized we kayaked too far out and the water was too rough to kayak back. As hard as we paddled, we kept going in circles. But its okay. We got rescued and "towed" back. I hope to go kayaking again before school starts. On smoother waters.

After kayaking, it was time to hike the Gorge trail at Watkins Glen State Park. It was a 3 mile round trip hike. Intense and lots of stairs but gorgeous and worth every second. I treated myself to a full fat but delicious ice cream but deserved it after the kayaking and hiking.

We also enjoyed visiting a couple wineries. I brought home four bottles of wine and can not wait to pop them open! Another highlight of the trip was visiting Farm Sanctuary. Its an animal rescue farm--there are actually two of them, one in New York and one in California. Check out my pictures and then check out the website to find out more about what they do over there. Its an amazing place!

Coastin' Along...

Isn't it funny that people pay good money to ride on of these babies...I'm a sucka for the wooden ones myself. As the coaster nears the top of the hill, inwardly I panic and then, down we go and I'm screaming and laughing and throwing my hands up in the air. But a part of me says how irrational to even take the chance...one electrical problem and you're dead! Hey, it happens...

Isn't life like that though? I am better at giving advice to others than giving it to myself. I tell hopelessly-wishing-they-were-in-love friends that the right person will come along, and not to worry. I tell my friends love (life, too) is like a roller coaster. You experience the greatest highs but you have to ride out the lows. When you are having a panicky feeling and wondering, "What the fuck am I doing?" remember that you have another high just around the corner. Next thing you know, you'll be lying on a blanket at an outdoor concert with your favorite and most handsome boy in the sticky heat-- and it'll be the best thing in the world. Really.

I really need a high right now. I've already got that panicky-almost-at-the-top feeling. Are we there yet? This past year, I made it through plenty of lows. Just when I think, I'm almost there, and I'm about to hit the sweet spot...down I go...

You may be wondering what I'm talking about here. Well, I think I just needed to vent and didn't feel like sharing with the whole Internet my sob story. For those of you who know me, get in touch with me and I'll share.

Its 2:14 am and I'm supposed to be leaving first thing in the morning for Watkins Glen, New York for 2 days. Maybe this girls only trip will be just what I need. Outdoorsy and rejuvenating activities await us such as visiting Farm Sanctuary (an animal rescue farm), hiking, kayaking, and visiting wineries. Maybe we'll even take in a drive-in movie.

Road Trippin!

Well, inspired by Jennifer's post on Thursday and my semi-boring Saturday night, I called a couple guy friends, Andy and Dennis, and suggested a road trip to Dave and Busters in the Palisades Mall in Rockland County, NY. Sunday afternoon traffic was not bad and we made it to the megamall in about an hour. We ate a delicious lunch at Dave and Busters first--for me, it was a salad, poblano chili, avocado and shiitake quesadillas, and a few forkfuls of Andy's and Dennis's chocolate desserts. So so yummy! Then we spent a good hour in the supersized arcade. I love simulator games and I played a variety of racing games--whitewater rafting, motorcycle, horse racing, 18 wheeler--and skeeball! A $14 card lasted me an hour and after Dennis and Andy shared their tickets with me, I was able to "buy" a little stuffed dog--Pupster the Cuddlemonkey, he is to be called, along with a mini-frisbee, and a yo-yo. Thanks guys! Can I say that this was my first experience in Dave and Busters OR the mall and I was amazed by both! This was the largest mall, I'd ever entered--4 levels, a zillion stores and restaurants, including an IMAX theatre! It was a fun day but I'm looking forward to a relaxing evening at home tonight!

My (un)eventful Saturday Night

Last night, I went out for a yummy Thai meal at Royal Thai with my brother and fiance and a couple of their friends. Afterwards, I rented a couple of movies--Bride and Prejudice and the Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.

Under just about any circumstances, I would not have sat at home by myself on a Saturday night. But these were my choices for entertainment. A) I could have went fishing on the docks of Carteret? Besides the fact that I am a vegetarian, fishing in Carteret? I'd probably get shot! It ain't happening! B) Take a train into New York and go to the Hard Rock Cafe. That option did sound like fun, but I just didn't have the energy.

So, Norton and I watched Bride and Prejudice last night. It was really a fantastic movie. Its by the director of Bend it like Beckham (another superb film), and its a modern retelling of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Its Bollywood style with lots of song and dance but its all in English. A must see!

Napoleon Dynamite

Right now, I'm sweaty and purple faced. But I'm not dying or having a heart attack. Robin and I embarked on a bike ride and I'm just not great in the heat. But here are some KILLER Napoleon Dynamite links. Use this one for making prank calls to your loved ones. Watch Napoleon dance dance dance.

Take a quiz and find out which character you are!


You are Trisha.


Which Napoleon Dynamite character are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Knitting...

Well, can you guys believe that I am actually knitting??? I am finding it quite addicting and Monday night, decided to start knitting my first scarf. So I am in the process of knitting my first scarf. Its orange and will match beautifully with my orange and red striped winter hat (although it may be the wrong shade of orange, but fuck it)! I think it will take me forever to knit this scarf but I'm hoping to be knitting at a superhuman rate soon so it will take me a little less time. Well, today I'm actually going to try to get something done, before I spend the day knitting and watching tv again.

Last night, I watched Napoleon Dynamite and it was one of the funniest movies I ever saw! I was hysterical laughing for most of the movie. It was great!

Strange but True

Well, since my Monday afternoon doctor visit, I have been spending great amounts of time knitting and watching television. Hello? Is this me? I'm actually doing pretty well with the knitting considering the fact that I just learned how yesterday!

On Sunday, I bought this hilarious book (for 99 cents), Think You're the Only One?: Oddball Groups Where Outsiders Fit In. The funny thing is that Monday evening, I spoke with Jennifer and discovered she bought the same book on the same day! She blogged about it as well and has links to some of the funny groups in this book so check her blog out!

Another really funny book which I don't own but highly enjoy is Food Court Druids, Cherohonkees and Other Creatures Unique to the Republic. You can read about these groups through this book and the hilarious website that goes with it. You could be a silver surfer, an asphalt ranger, a flexisexual or a TGIF. Check this book out the next time you are at Barnes and Nobles, you will pee your pants with laughter.

My busy weekend

Well I enjoyed a fun but very busy weekend. I spent Friday night at Karen's in Spring Lake. We sat on the boardwalk and watched the ocean crash with Robin and then had ice cream here. Saturday night, Jenn, Dennis, Andy and I went to New Hope, Pa. Its a great town for those of you whom have never been! We ate dinner and sampled the local brew at Triumph Brewery. Then we went here and to another bar where we sat at the outside bar. It was a fun evening but a late night! Sunday, Andy, Dave and I checked out the Middlesex County Fair. We had a good time there until it rained, then went to Barnes and Nobles, Ruby Tuesday and Coldstone Creamery.

Today I woke up absolutely exhausted from my weekend but went to my very first knitting class. I didn't do so bad! Then paid a visit to my doctor to learn I have strep throat...fun,fun...

Yay for the Matrix!

Well, en route from Wildwood last Friday, my reverse stopped functioning on my car. Kind of an important feature, I would say. So on Tuesday, my repair guy gave me the sad news that, alas, my trusty old Saturn would need a new transmission. With the miles I put on that baby, it just would not be worth fixing it.

So yesterday, the car shopping began, first with internet research and then visiting car dealerships. I first had my heart set on the Ford Escape or Pontiac Vibe. After checking out a few vehicles, I opted against large SUVS because of their poor mileage efficiency (and I commute many miles to work!) and higher price tag. I test drove the Toyota Matrix last night, which is basically the Japanese version of the Vibe, and fell in love with it. So today, after visiting several dealerships to get the right price, I purchased (well, financed) my very own 2005 silver Toyota Matrix. I am very excited about all the features on this baby (my old car didn't even have power locks). It is a 4 wheel drive with a moonroof, 6 cd changer with 6 speakers, fog lamps, cruise control, keyless entry, alarm system, and extended warranty. Its a great car and I'm sure Norton will love it! Yay!

Catch up...

Well, my apologies to my 2 or 3 readers who religiously checked out my blog all week to see the non-existent updates. I spent a week down in Wildwood Crest with family. It was like a big family reunion. My uncle rented a condo and we had 16 people staying there most nights. I had a great time, though, drank and ate way too much. But anyway, now I'm home and trying to get back on track.

Saturday, I went to see DMB rock out Randalls Island. It was an amazing concert and I'm happy to say that I figured out how to download the show and am listening to it right now! DMB is so cool that they let people professionally tape the show and then you can download the shows right through this site. Pretty cool!

Lately, I have been feeling like I want to be more domesticated. By the end of summer, I'd like to be able to knit and can jams and pickles. Today, I signed my sister and I up for knitting lessons and also bought some freezer jars to make jams. So we'll see how that goes!