Vividly Imagined

Decisions...Decisions (Vote time)

2011-06-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

Back to Blonde for Summer or stay with my all-year red?

Happiness Question

2011-06-25T07:55:00.001-07:00

I am a firm believer in making your own happiness. In college, I decided I was not going to be this scared little mouse, I was going to go out and get what I want to make me happy. Since then, I consider myself to be fairly assertive and even aggressive.

So what happens when the one thing you want, is the one thing you are too scared to go out and grasp. Even when it is staring you in the face?

Out for a Stroll

2011-03-18T07:19:00.001-07:00

This is your brain on film..or How not to spend a Friday

2011-01-28T14:40:00.000-08:00

Yes, this is my brain on film, errr I mean CD (we are in the 21st century after all). Spent last Friday getting pictures taken of my brain. Don't worry I'm fine, just a follow-up to some things from last year. To be honest the MRI was quite relaxing... I must be a new mom is I can fall asleep in the MRI machine.

Better Late Than Never...or 2011 New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

Resolutions are always a challenge for me. I seem to make them and I am not always good about completing them. I know last year was a bad example, I mean I had a great plan, but my son siderailed that (not that I am complaining!). So this year, as my priorities have shifted, the list is shorter but more meaningful. You'll notice there aren't any specifics really, just some new principals or priorites to live by.

Here's to 2011 being the best year yet.

Cherish family and friends
Be thankful for each day of good health
Take Care of myself, so I can be the best mom I can be
Live life (don’t let it happen)
Appreciate the small things
Help the less fortunate whenever we can

Babies Are Rock Stars...or Close Encounters of the "Stranger" Kind

2011-01-11T07:21:00.001-08:00

I continue to hold my theory that Babies are rock stars. People love them. My hubs loves the attention our son gets, constantly commenting on how wonderful our little man is. So here are some tidbits of encounters with Strangers we have had while out and about town.

In Church... Baby Boy in the Baby Bjorn napping on my chest, as we exit our pew at the conclusion of Mass, a woman stops me by putting her hand on my arm. She says "Oh he is just presious! Your first?" Me: "Yup." Lady:" You must be enjoying it, you haven't stopped smiling."

At the Grocery Store... Before shopping we realize Baby Boy needs to be changed, so instead of putting him in the Baby Bjorn, Hubs carrys him in wrapping his coat around the little guy so just Baby Boy's head is popping out. From the other side of the giant oranges display a little old lady says, "Oh my gosh... a baby!!" Hubs and I smile and nod, and keep walking toward the bathroom. Little old lady says, "Oh please can I see him?". Of course you can ma'am, and we stop to let her tell him how adorable he is.

At the Grocery Store... in line to check out. Baby in the Baby Bjorn babbling away. A man behinds me leans over and starts babbling back.

In line at Target....Hubs has Baby Boy in the Baby Bjorn, a woman leans over and says, "Oh he is so adorable, enjoy it! I wish I could tell you it gets better than this, but now my 5 year-old talks back."

In a deptarment store... we are visiting a friend who runs a makeup counter. She is holding Baby Boy behind the counter, a woman leans in and says, "Oh he is so cute. How much is he?"

In the LL Bean store... Grandma is holding Baby Boy while I check out. An elderly man comes over first to ask my mom how old her son is (go Hot Grandma!), and then to comment on how alert Baby Boy is for being under 3 months old. He says, "He's so curious...this one is gonna be trouble!"

Coming out of the restroom at a Restaurant... a couple leans in to say how cute Baby Boy is and ask hold old he is. The encounter ends with them saying, "Oh God Bless him!!"

Babies Are Rock Stars... or tidbits from the first 10 weeks of parenthood WARNING contains lots of pictures

2010-12-28T12:42:00.001-08:00

* Babies are rock stars... or so I have learned as every where I go, everyone ooo's and ahhh's. How could they not with a face like this:

* My vocabulary has changed...all words now have an "ie" or a "y" on the end. For example, a sentence: "Ok baby boy, Mommy is going to change your diapie, then you get some milkie, and then you can give Mommy a big burpy".

* I fall in love a little more each day, and live for the moments like these:

* It is amazing what you can learn to do with one hand.

* I have lost almost all my brain cells. In the first three weeks, I got into the shower with my glasses on unknowingly 8 times, and got frustrated when they fogged up.

* Sleep is the world's most undervalued commodity.

* It is important to have a support system of people who understand exactly what you are going through.

* My breast pump makes me feel like I should be working on a dairy farm...as a cow.

* I am petrified of flat head syndrome...so I choose to "wear my baby".

*The swing, although a God-send, makes me feel like a bad mom.

* Always be prepared for the unexpected. Pack extra bottles, changes of clothes and the like. You never know what the day might bring.

* I have to be flexible.

* Sometimes being serious is ok.

* Treasure every minute, cause it goes way too fast.

in another "REALY?!?!?!?!" moment...

2010-12-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

I saw these while Christmas shopping...

Really? I guess someone buys them or else they wouldn't be on sale.

A Facelift...

2010-12-03T20:03:00.000-08:00

I usually leave my changes to the blog title and design for early January.. but I didn't want to wait.. so take a look, and let me know what you think of the new title and header image. More posts coming soon....

Whoever thought I would become obsessed with poop?

2010-10-27T17:26:00.000-07:00

Whoever thought I would become obsessed with poop? That is the question I asked myself, as for five days we waited for our newborn to poop.

On October 17th, we welcomed our son into the world. Labor was the hardest and most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life.

And of course, because we are ridiculously controlling personalities we took to the breast feeding guide that told us how many wet and stool diapers he should be having on a daily basis like it was the bible....and then we waited. And we waited, for this little angel to finally poop.

Whoever thought that I would be on the "Great Poop Watch", but there I was checking every diaper, listening for every passing of gas, and praying our little man would finally poop and that this wasn't a sign of a greater problem. The pediatrician, of course, was not worried "A few more days, sometimes it just takes longer" he would say.

Of course, the entire family (including the extended aunts and uncles) were also on high alert. I can't tell you how many text messages I got asking if the baby had pooped yet. And when he finally did, the giant massive explosion...and I texted everyone that he had finally pooped, there was great rejoicing! Which just cracked me up considering just a few days before all I was concerned about was actually "having the baby". Funny how life changes so drastically, and the shift of what is important and what takes over your life happens so fast. And yet, even with the "Great Poop Watch" over and just a memory, I wouldn't have traded a second of it. Why? because I get to be this little man's mom, and that makes everything worth it.

P.S. - pardon the poor grammar. I am a sleep-deprived, new mom.

Baby's Room Subway Art

2010-10-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

so I got inspired by my friend Connie, over at The Young and The Relentless, who created subway art for her kitchen.

As it turns out, she was inspired by Tatertots and Jello.

Here is my Subway Art... themed for the baby's room and ready to hang on the wall.

What do you think?

Really?!?!?!

2010-09-14T17:32:00.000-07:00

I saw these in my local Target in the little girl's section. No... not the Halloween section, the regular clothing section.

do mom's really buy these for their little girls and let them out of the house? I am seriously in complete shock over this.

I need to come up with....

2010-09-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

a new blog name. I don't want it to be focused on the whole list of to do's anymore, although I plan to keep the list of things I want to do. I do want to capture the idea and spirit of living life to the fullest...any ideas?

It sounded really great....

2010-09-10T06:25:00.000-07:00

"I can't drive anymore", I told my doctor this morning, thinking about how my baby bump is touching my steering wheel these days, as I enter into the final 4 weeks of pregnancy. In the back of my head, all I can think is, "This is great.. doctor's note, and no more commute to Hartford".

As I leave the doctor's office, note in hand, I realize, "Ah dang it... this says "NO DRIVING", as in none at all, as in can't take myself to Target or wherever I need to go."

Well, it sounded like a good idea.

I told you....

2010-09-03T14:49:00.000-07:00

my beef steak tomato plant is taller than I am. ;)

An Update

2010-08-22T18:23:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, that I am not feeling very productive this year. I set out 32 things I wanted to do, and I really have only accomplished a few of them. Considering that I got pregnant only a few weeks after my birthday, and the start of my list.. I guess I made some progress. I have updated the list on the side in case anyone wants to take a status peek.

According to the little widget I have that is the baby countdown, I am due in 50 days. That is very scary... and I am sure it is going to go like a flash. Don't get me wrong, I am super excited to meet my little man, but the changes that are about to take place are a little nerve racking.

But now that I am in the final stretch, I have a new set of goals and things I want to accomplish (don't worry it's a short list):

1. Live in the moment (and cherish every second with just my hubs before our lives radically change!)
2. Finish getting the baby's room ready
3. make and freeze some dinners, so the hubs has something to eat after this little guy is born.

And so for those of you keeping score at home, here I am at 33 weeks:

And here is my little hellion, giving me the finger at our last ultra-sound:

And here is an attempt to capture his face... including the bubble he was blowing at the time:

Sundays of Grace

2010-08-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Every week I feel like a broken record... thankful for something related to my family or friends... but really these are the joys and most important things in my life.

But sometimes it's the small things, like being thankful for my hubs who fixed the toilet when the handle broke today, or being thankful for the fact that I have a hubs who helped me sort through 3 giant boxes of hand me down baby clothes, or being thankful for the fact that my almost 3 week old niece, slept through church today so her mom didn't have to jump up and run out.

And how about just being thankful for surviving another week?

I guess it is just the little things, and I am thankful that I have been blessed enough to know these are blessings!

At a bbq....

2010-08-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

I saw this...

Since it was also a pool party, I think I eventually determined this was a pair of board shorts, but seriously.... who let this guy out of the house like this?

Sundays of Grace

2010-08-15T17:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I was working through a piles of unmarked CD-Rs, and I came across a movie I had put together for my Hubs one Valentine's day many years ago. It was called "The Story of Us (the beginning chapters)" and included lots of pictures of us growing up.

I must admit every time I saw The Hubs as a little boy, I almost burst into tears with joy at the thought that that is what my little man could look like.

I can't even believe there are less than 60 days until his due date. It is truly a miracle, and I am truly blessed that so far so good. Based on our last ultrasound he is healthy, growing well, and positioned perfectly.

I am so thankful for the out-pouring of prayers and support I have received so far.

Thank you to one and all.

Sundays of Grace

2010-08-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

This week I am thankful for my new niece. And most importantly that both mom and baby are healthy!

Sundays of Grace #4

2010-08-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

I think I missed a Sunday, but that doesn't mean I am any less grateful.

This week was crazy as usual, but there are always things to give thanks for. This week, I am thankful for:

1) my Parents, who are busting their butts to do everything they can to help both my hubs and I, and my brother and sister-in-law get ready for our babies.

2) For my hubs, who lugged more stuff up and down the stairs and around the house in preparation for our carpet install, and then the piece of furniture I bought at costco, and then the crib upstairs, and then the crib assembly. He is wonderful.

3) For all of the insanity of my job, the ability to take a Friday off to take care of some errands.

4) For the beautiful weather we are having this weekend.

5) For good friends.

Adventures in hair color....

2010-07-31T07:38:00.000-07:00

I got my hair colored yesterday, attempting to get back to the lovely shade of red I was, and rid of my scary dark roots....what I forgot was how two times ago I got highlights.

Well I'm not sure if you can really tell in this picture or not, but I have these two bright red streaks right in the front of my head framing my face.

It was just too funny not to share.

Weird Wedding Attire

2010-07-24T20:54:00.001-07:00

We were guests at a beautiful wedding last week. But what I so surprsied by was this one guest's pants.

I dunno, is it me? I don't think I would let the hubs out of the house in pants like this.

Because I knew you would ask, here is a closer shot of the material...

Sundays of Grace #3

2010-07-18T19:03:00.000-07:00

This week I am thankful for love. We just got back from a wedding, and it was beautiful. So nice to see two people so caring and loving. Reminds me of my hubs, who I love more than anything.

Grow, baby, Grow.... and Culinary Explorations

2010-07-11T17:16:00.000-07:00

This week, lots of good things popped up in the garden...

baby cucumbers (there are probably a total of seven to 10!!)

baby roma tomatoes (I spotted 4 so far!)...

And our pepper is getting bigger, it's about half of it's full size...

Last weekend, while I had some extra time... I decided to pursue some culinary explorations...refrigerator pickles...strawberry jam...and blueberry jam. All things I have wanted to do for along time. They all came out pretty tasty!

I feel like I am continuing my quest toward domestic goddess-dom... I just wish I could quit my day job and do it all the time!

Sunday of Grace #2

2010-07-11T16:56:00.000-07:00

I can't believe a whole week has gone by, but here is my list of things I am thankful for this week:

1)For weekends with Family and Friends. It is always crazy, but I wouldn't miss it or trade a second of it. Thie weekend we got to catch up with a friend we haven't seen in years, celebrate a first birthday, and spend my uncle's birthday with him.

2) For my garden. It is so cool to watch something grow. It is a miracle that I am amazed to witness. Right now we have baby cucumbers and baby roma tomatoes, all just starting out.

Sundays of Grace

2010-07-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

I follow a lot of blogs relating to infertility, stories of struggles and triumphs people have had. It really has been an amazing eye-opener. One of the women I follow has been through so much, it is amazing that she and her husband have not just given up. I am so inspired by them. You can check them out here.

One of the things Mo does is called Sundays of Grace. No matter what she is going through with her struggle, she always takes the time to give thanks. I love this idea, and I have been slacking severely in this area. So starting today, I am instituting the Sundays of Grace.

Today is my first Sunday of Grace. This week I am thankful for:

1) My family. It has been one of those weeks, and they really do keep my going.

2) My amazing hubs. I have been one heck of a B*tch lately(I am blaming my pregnancy hormones), and he has been amzingly patient through it all.

3)That I am lucky enough to be having a fairly easy pregnancy. I feel great, and this has been amazing.

4)For every day I get to wake up and experience the sunshine.

5)It's July 4th. So I am thankful for all of the men and women in the armed forces who work so hard to keep our freedom. Without your service, we wouldn't be the nation we are. Thank you!

Nothing like a little pesto

2010-06-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

My beautiful basil before...

And the after.... homemade pesto with the fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, romano, and olive oil I brought back from Italy last November...

Yummy!

My garden it's a growing....

2010-06-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in this post here, I have really learned to love container gardening. There is something amazing about having fresh herbs and vegetables at your finger tips.

This year we planted beefsteak tomatoes, plum tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet white hybrid peppers, basil, parsley and cilantro. In just a few short weeks, everything is growing.. and looking amazing.

I was very excited because over the weekend, a little pepper started to grow!

And my cucumbers developed flowers, which can only lead to some cukes...

my herbs are getting huge.. so this week we planned lots of dinners that center on them.

Pasta with Pesto Sauce
Gazpacho with Avocado Salsa
Scallops with Chimmichurri Sauce

I can't wait!

I think I forgot to mention...

2010-06-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

Here he is at 23 weeks, waving for the camera, just like Mom...

It was so cool, you could see his little face and belly, and his arm just waving.

And here I am at 25 weeks....

The hubs felt him move last night for the first time. So amazing.

Have you ever seen a Toilet Paper Wedding Dress??

2010-06-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

Who says toilet paper can't be fun at a bridal shower? We played "make your own TP wedding dress" at my cousin's shower. why my table decided the pregnant bride would be a good idea, I'll never know.

Aren't we quite the bunch of lookers?

Ham... and a camera?

2010-06-29T19:45:00.001-07:00

Apparently, I have always liked having my picture taken. Found this lovely shot of me posing...

"And I wonder if I ever cross your mind....

2010-06-29T19:44:00.001-07:00

For me it happens all the time."

can't get this song lyric out of my head.

Was bored.. I shouldn't be left alone with my camera..

2010-05-17T19:12:00.001-07:00

Otherwise here is what happens....

19 weeks and counting...

Hello mojo....

2010-05-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

At least that is the name of the color I am calling my hair.. Mojo Red. It just makes me smile.

It's that time of year...

2010-05-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

Where my newly founded green thumb gets itchy.. and I have to attempt to make things grow. Maybe it's the sunshine, maybe it's the plants, grass, trees and flowers blooming, but I just have to get gardening. Since I live in a condo, I am restricted to container gardening that pretty much takes over my deck, and makes my table unusable. But that is ok, if I get a fresh tomato... or a sprig of cilantro for my guacamole...or some basil for my fresh pesto.

I have been waiting for the weather to cooperate, and today was sunny and beautiful, so off to Walmart to buy my potting soil I went, and 6 8-quart bags later, we have our garden planted.

I did cheat a little this year and bought a pre sprouted beefsteak tomato plant and a pepper plant, but I can't tell if they are growing or not since I replanted them. Today I planted my seeds for roma tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, cilantro, basil and parsley. Yum! The thought of it makes my mouth happy.

Here's to happy growing.

Dancing With The Hubs.....

2010-05-03T19:29:00.000-07:00

#1 LEARN TO BALLROOM DANCE.

One of my most favorite shows is Dancing with the Stars. I have always wanted to learn, and we had big plans to get lessons for our wedding, but time ran out too quickly, and we wound up with the traditional tick-tock dance as I call it. Oh well.

Flash forward 5 years. After a generous Christmas present from my brother-in-law, here we are learning to dance! It really has been great fun so far. We have learned figures (steps) for the Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Rumba and Hustle. I am slowly learning to let The Hubs lead (I have a problem with giving up control), and we are working together. Luckily, our instructor Brianna, over at Fred Astaire in Brookfield, is awesome and doesn't get too down on us when we trip over each others feet, or screw up the counts.

We keep trying.. maybe if you are lucky... we'll show you our moves.

Our Aruban Vacation

2010-04-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

There is something invigorating about the thought of a few days with nothing to do except sit on the beach, soaking in the sun, doing absolutely nothing but napping. That is why the Hubs and I try to sneak away to the beach a few days a year. When life stresses you out, let the sand and surf renew your mind and spirit.

What I forgot about though, was the amazing array of people in scary swimsuits that make for great people watching. I considered whipping out the camera to take a few photos, but I was gripped with fear that I might one day become one of these scary people and opted to leave the camera in my beach bag.

Here are a few of my favorites:
1) The men in speedos. I never understood, as the late great comedian Richard Jeni said, "why men feel the need to wear a bathing suit designed for olympic competition". There is not enough makeup or cover up in the world that makes back and butt hair look good.
2) The large and in-charge women in a bikini (sometimes a string bikini). I sympathize, I am not skinny, but I am a firm believer that is you have a big, jiggly tummy (and you are not pregnant), no one wants to see it bouncing around on the beach. There is a reason bikins look good in the catalog, the models are skinny and gorgeous.
3) The scary tube-top bikini on women over 50. Yes, you may in fact be proud you are still skinny enough to wear a bikini, but a tube top a few inches above your belly button is not the stuff dreams are made of.

Whenever I see these scary swimsuits and those who adorn them, I always wonder, do these people just have amazing body confidence (something I long for) or do they just have faulty mirrors?

A question for the ages because let's be honest, there is no way I am going to ask them.

And seriously for all of the scary people, there were plenty of good looking ones, so at least it balances out.

But even scarier to me ar the tourists who are all blotchy lobster red and sun-burned, or those as dark as tobacco and leathery to prove it. This is the stuff my nightmares are made of. I love to be tan, but the fear of looking older than I am freaks me out, so I slather on the sunscreen and reapply dilligently (a habit enforced lovingly by the Hubs).

Even with all the people watching, sometimes scary, sometimes just entertaining, the beach always lives up to its promise of relaxation and revewal of mind and spirit.

Easter Fun

2010-04-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

Forgot to post this...

The big news ...

2010-03-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

So... it is looking like I may need to change my list of 32 things. See some of them are just really not practical anymore.... because I'm pregnant!

We had our 12 week ultrsound on Friday, and there were some cute pictures. Here our baby is looking at us waving! Coolest thing the hubs and I have ever seen! (Don't mind baby's current alien like appearance, it is only temporary...)

But I think I like this one better... I can't decide... is the baby giving a fistpump... or telling me I better watch it once they get out of there...

Stay tuned.. cause in the next few days, I am going to be fine tuning my list of 32!

March's Recipe of the Month - Falafel

2010-03-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

Falafal Pitas.. from Cooking Light

Sauce:
1 cup 2% reduced-fat Greek yogurt
2/3 cup chopped, peeled cucumber
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
1 garlic glove, minced

Falafel:
1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added chickpeas
1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons olive oil

Other Ingredients:
2 (6-inch) whole wheat pitas, cut in half
2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
1 cup chopped plum tomato
2/3 cup thinly sliced peeled cucumber
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

1) To prepare sauce, combine first 4 ingredients; set aside
2) To prepare falafel, drain chickpeas in a colander over a bowl; reserve liquid. Place chickpeas, 3 tablespoons liquid(discrad remaining liquid), breadcrumbs, and next 5 ingredients in a food processor; process until minced. Divide chickpea mixture into 8 equal portions, shaping into a 1/2-inch thick patty.
3) Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over mediium-high heat. Add pattied to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
4) Spread about 1/4 cup of the sauce into each pita half. Fill each pita half with 1/2 cup lettuce, 1/4 cup tomato, about 2 tablespoons sliced cucumber, 1 tablspoon sliced onion, and 2 falafel patties.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 stuffed pita half)

Calories: 303; Fat: 10.8g; Protein: 14.4g; Carb: 40.6g; Fiber: 7.4g

March's Vegetable of the Month

2010-03-20T17:24:00.000-07:00

For March, our vegetable is butternut squash. I love butternut squash, but always seem to be in a rut when it comes to preparation. I am going to try to make soup soon, but till then, here is my favorite, with a little butter and brown sugar.

Lady Gaga - Telephone

2010-03-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

When I was much younger, a freshman in college, I had this boyfriend. What I didn't realize is that he really had a bit of a possession problem. We went to college in different parts of the state, and that meant my whereabouts had to be known at all times. He bought me a pager first. I thought it was cool, I mean who didn't want to get messages from your friends (keep in mind this is pre-cell phone for everyone phase)? That worked for a bit. But I was a bit of a wild child, finding my wings after being brought up fairly strict Catholic in CT. The next thing I knew, he was calling the bars where my underage self was hanging out and living the good life, see here. You know, cause that was a good idea?! Then I got a cell phone, paid for lovingly by sed boyfriend. So while it was really cool to be one of the first people to have a cell phone, it really was not a lot of fun to constantly be called to find out my whereabouts. And in those days, no one really had a cell phone (the most popular model was still the bag phone) and texting didn't exist. So when I first heard Lady Gaga's "Telephone", it brought me back to these days. A long time ago, but so perfectly summarized.

"Telephone"
[Lady Gaga]
Hello
Hello, baby; you called
I can't hear a thing
I have got no service in the club you say, say
Wa-wa-what did you say?
Huh?; You're breaking up on me
Sorry; I cannot hear you
I'm kinda busy
K-kinda busy
K-kinda busy
Sorry; I cannot hear you
I'm kinda busy

Just a second; it's my favorite song they're gonna play and I cannot text you with a drink in my hand, eh?
You shoulda made some plans with me; you knew that I was free
And now you won't stop calling me
I'm kinda busy

Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna think anymore!; I left my head and my heart on the dance-floor
Stop callin'', stop callin; I don't wanna talk anymore!; I left my head and my heart on the dance-floor

Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh
Stop telephonin' me!
Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh
I'm busy!
Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh
Stop telephonin' me!
Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh

Can call all you want but there's no one home and you're not gonna reach my telephone!
'Cause I'm out in the club and I'm sippin' that bub' and you're not gonna reach my telephone

Call when you want but there's no one home
and you're not gonna reach my telephone
Out in the club and I'm sippin' that bub' and you're not gonna reach my telephone

[Beyonce]
Boy, the way you blowin' up my phone won't make me leave no faster, put my coat on faster, leave my girls no faster.
I shoulda left my phone at home 'cause this is a disaster!
Callin' like a collector
Sorry: I cannot answer!

Not that I don't like you: I'm just at a party
And I am sick and tired of my phone ri-ringing
Sometimes I feel like I live in Grand Central Station
Tonight I'm not takin no calls 'cause I'll be dancin'
'Cause I'll be dancin'
'Cause I'll be dancin'
Tonight I'm not takin' no calls 'cause I'll be dancin!

Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna think anymore!; I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor
Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna talk anymore!; I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor

Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna think anymore!; I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor
Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna talk anymore; I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor

Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh
Stop telephonin' me!
Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh
I'm busy!
Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh
Stop telephonin' me!
Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh

Can call all you want, but there's no one home
And you're not gonna reach my telephone
'Cause I'm out in the club and I'm sippin' that bub'
And you're not gonna reach my telephone

Call when you want, but there's no one home
And you're not gonna reach my telephone!
'Cause I'm out in the club, and I'm sippin' that bub'
And you're not gonna reach my telephone, my telephone, mi-mi-mi, my telephone
'Cause I'm out in the club and I'm sippin' that bub'
And you're not gonna reach my telephone
My telephone
Mi-mi-mi, my telephone
'Cause I'm out in the club and I'm sippin that bub' and you're not gonna reach my telephone

We're sorry; the number you have reached is not in service at this time
Please check the number, or try your call again

Decisions...Decisions

2010-03-15T18:22:00.000-07:00

Can't decide what color to dye my hair... I know this should be simple, but I am torn. Spring is almost here and I love being blond, but I love my fall winter color and now I can't decide.

Am I better blond?

Or more red?

Like Oil And Water....

2010-03-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Just thought this looked cool.

Mmmmm cake.....

2010-03-15T18:05:00.001-07:00

Cake tasting for my cousin's wedding at Zingerman's in Ann Arbor.

Thank you side of a bus advertising...

2010-03-10T17:58:00.001-08:00

I don't watch a lot of tv. But since I have been working in Manhattan, I have noticed there is a significant volume of ads for TV shows and movies. They are everywhere: on the top of cabs, on the walls of a bus stop, on the side of the bus.

Apparently, the buses that run along the routes near where my client site is have advertising from TV Land, and I have been bombarded with ads for this tv show:

All I can think of every time I see this is.. holy shenaningans batman.

Creepier

2010-02-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

We let the asparagus sit for a few more days. It really did start to look like the jungle in our kitchen. It was so gross, that I think I am permanently scar-ed and will no longer be eating asparagus.

Again, maybe it's me, but this is creepy.

Creepy... or maybe it's just me

2010-02-19T18:07:00.000-08:00

We had asparagus in the fridge, that we hadn't gotten around to eating during the week. It looked like it was drying up a bit, so we took it out of the fridge, and put it in water.

And then it started to grow....

Something about the growing jungle of asparagus on my counter creeps me out. Maybe I'm just weird.

February Date Night a.k.a Valentine's Day

2010-02-15T17:24:00.001-08:00

I don't really like Valentine's Day, it just feel so forced. I love the Hubs, but I tell him that all the time. But regardless of my thoughts on Valentine's Day it is fun to celebrate and do something special you otherwise wouldn't.

This day started off right...

with flowers.
He even made sure the florist added my favorite calla lilies in there. Such a good Hubs.

I love getting dressed up

And of course...

I am pretty sure my shoes freaked out some of the patrons and waitstaff at the restaurant that was really conservative, but sometimes a girl just has to have a little fun.

And finnally off for a romantic dinner (well if we weren't sitting so close to others...LOL)

February's Vegetable of The Month

2010-02-13T11:40:00.000-08:00

#9 - Try one new vegetable a month

February's vegetable of the month... bok choy

Over the years I have found myself picking the bok choy out of my chinese food, and claiming not to really like it. But since this is the year for trying things, I decided to give it a go.

Since the only way I have ever had bok choy is in Chinese food, we used it in a stirfry that also had beef, red peppers, and shitake mushrooms. It came out really yummy.

But now I have extra bok choy, and have to find some other way to make it. Suggestions?

It's almost Valentine's Day....

2010-02-13T07:47:00.001-08:00

...time to break out the red high heels!

Number 13, here I come...

Non-Fiction Here I Come... sort of...

2010-02-12T17:34:00.001-08:00

#10 - Read more Non-Fiction

So this started out as a joke. You see, when I was asked by a friend of mine what I have been reading lately, all I could muster as an answer was "young adult vampire novels... 4 different series". Ok, so time to stop the teen vamps, and look for some grown-up books. The plan is to read 1 book every two months.

Here are my first two selections:

Why did I decide to start the non-fiction event off with two political memoirs? Well, reading about Politics is pretty much the same as reading fiction, so I figured it would help me ease into the realm of unfamiliar.

I am taking suggestions on other non-fiction to read... please send along any ideas via comment!

January Recap

2010-02-12T17:09:00.000-08:00

1. Learn to ballroom dance - Not yet, have to call the studio
2. Walk a 5k for a good cause - Looking for one in May, but haven't signed up yet
3. Clean out the closets in my house (4) - Yeah right!
4. Have an official date night with The Hubs at least 1x a month - January Done!
5. Take vocal lessons - nope.
6. Go to Eucharistic Adoration at least once a month - Went twice, have a lot to prayer for
7. Reconnect with at least one old friend - Working on this one!
8. Have my old photos (the really old ones) scanned - have to gather them all together first, this probably be after I clean out the closets.
9. Try one new vegetable a month - January Done!
10. Read more non-fiction (at least 6 books this year) - First 2 picked out!
11. Continue to blog funny or interesting photos - Well, I got one...
12. ~~Stop drinking~~ Drink Less Starbucks - changed this to drink less, I had a hard time giving up Caramel Macchiatos, especially on the weekend! So now it is a weekend only treat.
13. Make more whoopie - No comment. Why did I put this on here again?
14.Learn to use my Adobe Photoshop Software - Maybe in February I'll pick up the book I got.
15. Cancel ALL All but one of my magazine subscriptions - Changed my mind - keeping my Weight Watchers Magazine.. good tips, good recipes - And Oh yeah, I cancelled all of my other subscriptions! DONE!
16. Live in the moment - Trying!
17. Volunteer with RESOLVE - have a suppport group month picked out and ready to co-lead witha friend.
18. Organize and keep my desk clean - Well it went from piled high, to just piled.. Almost there!
19. Get caught up on my scrapbooks - Scrapping Trip/Weekend planned for the last weekend of February, expect a big dent at that point.
20. Use my home gym regularly (4x per week) - Um...
21. Visit my grandmother more - still have to work on this. In my defense everyone in her house was sick
22. Try Bikram Yoga - not yet.
23. Try one new recipe a month - January Done!
24. Use our pool at least 2x per month during the summer - On hold, given it is 30 degrees out.
25. Visit at least 3 CT State parks - figure this will be a summer thing
26.Lose 20 pounds - slow and steady wins the race...
27. Recycle my old magazines - Officially recycled 3 stacks of magazines in January.
28. Plan an amazing 5th Anniversary for the Hubs - plans are in the works..
29. Learn how to use my StoryBook Plus software - Just added this one... so I need some more time.
30.
31.
32.

Still have 3 more slots.... I am taking any and all ideas!!

January Date Night

2010-02-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

#4 Have an official date night with The Hubs at least 1x per month

So our first attempt at date night failed miserably. After a banter of "what do you want to do?" "I dunno, what do you want to do?", I convinced the Hubs that we needed to go to Kohls to spend of gift certificates and get him some new dress shoes. Yeah, let's just say that wasn't totally a romantic date night, and somehow the poor Hubs was relegated to watching me shop for work clothes. He lovingly acted happy, but seriously what man wants to shop for fun? Not my hubby.

Date night take 2 - We went to see the movie "Up In The Air"

We were originally intrigued by the idea that American played a large part in the movie, and the Hubs being Executive Platinum, wanted to see how they were portayed. I love George Clooney, so how could I say no? And was surprised to see that my hotel brand of choice was also prominently featured.

It turned out that as depressing as the story line was and as much as I wanted to kill the Alex character, the message about the importance of the relationships in your life really hit home. But I can't for the life of me see why the movie is nominated for so many Oscars.

After the movie we went to dinner. Where? Couldn't tell you. We eat out at least once a week, and I really just have no idea. Sad I know.

But all in all date night was a success, and here's to seeing what we come up with for February...

January's New Recipe

2010-02-12T13:07:00.000-08:00

#23 - Try one new recipe a month

To be honest, we try new recipes all the time in my house, because The Hubs and I love to cook. And since I am lucky enough that he works from home, he does a lot of our cooking.

In January, we tried a recipe from Cooking Light called "Fettuccine with Shrimp and Portobellos", it was quick easy, and really tasty.

January's Vegetable of the Month

2010-01-21T20:43:00.000-08:00

Item #9 - Try one new vegetable a month.

January's vegetable was brussel sprouts. Not an easy favorite, and not liked by most people I know, but I figured it's green, so it must have some nutritional value, let's give it a go.

We tried them steamed. That was a disaster. They were barely palitable.

Then I tried a recipe with maple syrup and canadian bacon. Yummy!Now that is how to eat brussel sprouts!

Too bad the maple syrup and canadian bacon defeat the whole purpose of eating a vegetable! Unless of course you take the view that a vegetable in your tummy is a good thing, no matter what you had to do to get it there. LOL.

Pink Socks

2010-01-18T17:10:00.000-08:00

So I promised to continue to blog funny photos. This is from the check-in line at airport. There was a guy, who was dressed completely normally, except for his bright pink socks. So here you go, I give you pink socks:

A Facelift and A New Title

2010-01-18T16:56:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010 everyone. Yes, I know it is 18 days into 2010, but I am little slow these days. Welcome to my updated blog for 2010. This year, I am going to try a new angle. I am turning 32 this year, so I thought that I would blog about 32 things I want to do before I turn 32.

It isn't that I didn't like Project 365 it is just that by the end, it was really challenging to take a picture everyday. And I am sure that you have all seen enough photos of my feet.

So here is my list, as you will see I am still a few short, so I welcome your suggestions, just leave me a comment!

1. Learn to ballroom dance
2. Walk a 5k for a good cause
3. Clean out the closets in my house (4)
4. Have an official date night with The Hubs at least 1x a month
5. Take vocal lessons
6. Go to Eucharistic Adoration at least once a month
7. Reconnect with at least one old friend
8. Have my old photos (the really old ones) scanned
9. Try one new vegetable a month
10. Read more non-fiction (at least 4 books this year)
11. Continue to blog funny or interesting photos
12. Stop drinking Starbucks
13. Make more whoopie
14.Learn to use my Adobe Photoshop Software
15. Cancel ALL my magazine subscriptions
16. Live in the moment
17. Volunteer with RESOLVE
18. Organize and keep my desk clean
19. Get caught up on my scrapbooks
20. Use my home gym regularly (4x per week)
21. Visit my grandmother more
22. Try Bikram Yoga
23. Try one new recipe a month
24. Use our pool at least 2x per month during the summer
25. Visit at least 3 CT State parks
26.Lose 20 pounds
27. Recycle my old magazines
28. Plan an amazing 5th Anniversary for the Hubs
29.
30.
31.
32.

This year I will blog about trying to accomplish this list. I hope you enjoy it. At least I have 346 days till my birthday!

Nothing

2010-01-17T12:40:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that this is the first Sunday where I have nothing to do, and I am happy to report, I did nothing. It is 3:40 pm, and I am still in my Pjs. I love it! I am very thankful for this relaxing day!

Michael Buble - Haven't Met You Yet

2010-01-16T12:14:00.000-08:00

So I know this song is about romantic reltionships, but I really can't help but feel it summaries my journey with infertility. I didn't get to meet my first two, but that doesn't mean I won't ever have any chldren. This line especially hits home,

"But somehow I know that it'll all turn out.
And you'll make me work so we can work to work it out.
And I promise you, kid, I'll give so much more than I get.
I just haven't met you yet."

I know there are lots of others out there who struggle with this problem, and have stories much more dramatic than mine. But I think this song summaries and also gives me hope.

Lyrics:
I'm not surprised.
Not everything lasts.
I've broken my heart so many times I stopped keeping track.
Talk myself in.
I talk myself out.
I get all worked up, then I let myself down.

I tried so very hard not to lose it.
I came up with a million excuses.
I thought I thought of every possibility.

And I know someday that it'll all turn out.
You'll make me work so we can work to work it out.
And promise you, kid, that I'll give so much more than I get.
I just haven't met you yet.

Mmmm...

I might have to wait.
I'll never give up.
I guess it's half timing,
And the other half's luck.
Wherever you are.
Whenever it's right.
You'll come out of nowhere and into my life.

And I know that we can be so amazing.
And baby your love is gonna change me.
And now I can see every possibility.

Mmmm...

But somehow I know that it'll all turn out.
And you'll make me work so we can work to work it out.
And I promise you, kid, I'll give so much more than I get.
I just haven't met you yet.

They say all's fair.
In love and war.
But I won't need to fight it.
We'll get it right and,
We'll be united.

And I know that we can be so amazing.
And being in your life is gonna change me.
And now I can see every single possibility, mmmm.

And someday I know it'll all turn out.
And I'll work to work it out.
Promise you, kid, I'll give more than I get,
Than I get, than I get, than I get.

Ohhh!

You know it'll all turn out.
And you'll make me work so we can work to work it out.
And I promise you, kid, to give so much more than I get.
I just haven't met you yet.

I just haven't met you yet.
Ohh, promise you, kid, to give so much than I get.

(I said love, love, love, love...)
I just haven't met you yet

I just haven't met you yet.

Great News

2010-01-16T11:34:00.000-08:00

It has been a rough two weeks. Lots of craziness and doctors, but today I got some great news. There is nothing like finding out a test is negative! So I am thankful that nothing serious is going on, and everything can go back to normal. That made my Friday.

December 31, 2009

2010-01-10T18:56:00.000-08:00

Here we are at New Year's Eve again. I really do wonder where the year goes sometimes. This year we decided to party at hotel, and who knew I would meet Ray Romano in the buffet line?

It is always a little intimidating to be seated at a table full of people you don't know, but luckily we had a great group! Nothing like Tequila shots to help that out!

And a midnight kiss with my Hubs to fireworks in the background. Here's hoping 2010 is a better year than 2009!

December 30, 2009

2010-01-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Me! We spent the majority of the day in the airport or on an airplane, but when you get to complete your journey with views like these, it is well worth it.

After relaxing a little by the pool, the Hubs and I had a nice dinner.

All in all not a bad birthday!

December 29, 2009

2010-01-10T18:22:00.000-08:00

Got together with a group of old friends today! It was a great time, and reminded me how blessed I have been in my life to know such great people!

December 28, 2009

2010-01-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

With this picture, I was trying to show everyone how windy it was today. I felt like Paul in "Mad About You", when Yoko Ono hires him to make a documentary to capture the wind! LOL.

December 27, 2009

2010-01-10T18:13:00.000-08:00

Family picture!

Except for everyone looking a little tired. Not too bad. Unfortunately the picture signaled the end of our visit.

And so it was on to the long road home...

December 26, 2009

2010-01-10T18:08:00.001-08:00

Nothing like a post Christmas game of Twilight Scene It.

December 25, 2009

2010-01-10T18:04:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This Christmas, Jack got a new wardrobe. His Christmas outfit and a snuggie.

December 24, 2009

2010-01-10T17:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve is my favorite night of year. I love the anticipation and midnight mass. This year was quiet, and spent with my parents and sister. But sadly no midnight mass at their church. Oh well, there is always next year.

My parent's tree (sorry its blurry I wanted to get the lights):

The Hubs and I before mass. Don't we look adorable in our matching sweaters?

December 23,2009

2010-01-10T17:45:00.000-08:00

Anyone want a cookie?

December 22, 2009

2010-01-10T17:42:00.000-08:00

The cookies are packed and ready to go to Mom and Dad's tomorrow!

December 21, 2009

2010-01-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

Don't I make a cute reindeer?

December 20, 2009

2010-01-08T19:59:00.000-08:00

Our annual cookie making day. This year we made snicerkdoodles, chocolate chip, oatmeal toffee, gingerbread men, Italian rainbow, crescents, chocolate covered oreos, and sugar cookies.

This picture is my sister-in-law making candy canes out of the sugar cookies. After watching me attempt one, she said I wasn't allowed to make them because I needed remedial play-doh training. Better sign myself up for some time with my friends children.

December 19, 2009

2010-01-08T19:54:00.001-08:00

Christmas with the Hub's family in NYC.

Watching the skater's in Bryant Park at The Pond..

And sharing a moment by the frozen fountain..

December 18, 2009

2010-01-08T19:52:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas presents.

December 17, 2009

2010-01-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

My darling uncle and aunt sent us baked goods for Christmas. I really loved the package it came in.

December 16, 2009

2010-01-08T19:43:00.000-08:00

Secret Santa day at work...

I think I got a great gift...

December 15, 2009

2010-01-08T19:40:00.000-08:00

Our elf...I swear he reports back to Santa

December 14, 2009

2010-01-08T19:38:00.001-08:00

Isn't it pretty? I came in the front door after work and thehouse was dim and the tree was lit. Love it.

December 13, 2009

2010-01-08T19:34:00.001-08:00

Ice Storm! Dangerous, but I love how it all looks...

That night... decorating the tree

December 12, 2009

2010-01-08T19:31:00.001-08:00

It was a scrapbooking weekend. Nothing like some time with my girls... and of course wine and M&M's never hurt either!

December 11, 2009

2010-01-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

Had to get Jack ready to Christmas. Doesn't he look cute?

December 10, 2009

2010-01-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a Lobster-gram. We ordered from the site livelob.com because we ahd a gift certificate, and got lobster tails via delivery packed in dry ice. Fun!

December 09, 2009

2010-01-08T19:16:00.000-08:00

It snowed...

And I got to meet baby Isabella Angelina!

December 08, 2009

2010-01-08T19:12:00.000-08:00

Got my Christmas present early from my in-laws...

Don't I have the best in-laws???

December 07, 2009

2010-01-08T19:08:00.001-08:00

We attempted to break out wish-bone from Thanksgiving. Only, it didn't quite break into two pieces...

You see the middle piece sort of went flying across the kitchen. So the question is who gets their wish?

December 06, 2009

2010-01-08T19:00:00.000-08:00

I love our condo complex at Christmas time!

December 5, 2009

2010-01-08T18:49:00.000-08:00

Celebrated the Siblings' birthday today (it was December 3rd). Took a ride into NYC and into one of my favortie spots Greenwich village.

Dinner at Cafe Espanol, then on to the Comedy Cellar.

December 3, 2009

2009-12-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

Do you think I am busy at work or just a disorganized mess?

December 2, 2009

2009-12-26T15:10:00.000-08:00

Note to self.

Do not buy the box of clementines...

December 1, 2009

2009-12-26T15:08:00.001-08:00

November 30, 2009

2009-12-26T15:05:00.000-08:00

Our Yin and Yang cars.

November 29, 2009

2009-12-26T14:52:00.000-08:00

The day started out with my transformation back to being a red-head. I love it.

That evening the Hubs and I attempted to put the lights up on the tree outside!
Look... I helped! LOL..

New LED lights.... I think it looks like an alien tree...

November 28, 2009

2009-12-26T14:48:00.000-08:00

Went to see New Moon with two of my college roommates.

November 27, 2009

2009-12-26T14:22:00.000-08:00

Black Friday, so I went shopping, for a gift for myself.

Don't I look great in Black?

After we finished our shopping, we hosted my God-Mother's surprise 50th birthday party. All of family on my mother's side was there.

Cousins:

The birthday girl:

November 26, 2009

2009-12-26T14:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! We had the family at our house... given that we had so much cheese and pasta during our trip there was not an Italian dish to be had!

November 25, 2009

2009-12-26T14:09:00.000-08:00

Getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving, we had the fam at our house. We keep growing as a dog family. Here is my mom with all of the doggies. Aren't they cute.

November 24, 2009

2009-12-26T13:58:00.000-08:00

Back to the grind.. my desk

November 23, 2009

2009-12-26T13:53:00.001-08:00

Our last day, and we spent it at the airport, so here are some pics of us throwing our coins in the Trevi Fountain to ensure our return to Rome.

Vividly Imagined

Decisions...Decisions (Vote time)

Happiness Question

Out for a Stroll

This is your brain on film..or How not to spend a Friday

Better Late Than Never...or 2011 New Year's Resolutions

Babies Are Rock Stars...or Close Encounters of the "Stranger" Kind

Babies Are Rock Stars... or tidbits from the first 10 weeks of parenthood **WARNING contains lots of pictures**

in another "REALY?!?!?!?!" moment...

A Facelift...

Whoever thought I would become obsessed with poop?

Baby's Room Subway Art

Really?!?!?!

I need to come up with....

It sounded really great....

I told you....

An Update

Sundays of Grace

At a bbq....

Sundays of Grace

Sundays of Grace

Sundays of Grace #4

Adventures in hair color....

Weird Wedding Attire

Sundays of Grace #3

Grow, baby, Grow.... and Culinary Explorations

Sunday of Grace #2

Sundays of Grace

Nothing like a little pesto

My garden it's a growing....

I think I forgot to mention...

Have you ever seen a Toilet Paper Wedding Dress??

Ham... and a camera?

"And I wonder if I ever cross your mind....

Was bored.. I shouldn't be left alone with my camera..

Hello mojo....

It's that time of year...

Dancing With The Hubs.....

Our Aruban Vacation

Easter Fun

The big news ...

March's Recipe of the Month - Falafel

March's Vegetable of the Month

Lady Gaga - Telephone

Decisions...Decisions

Like Oil And Water....

Mmmmm cake.....

Thank you side of a bus advertising...

Creepier

Creepy... or maybe it's just me

February Date Night a.k.a Valentine's Day

February's Vegetable of The Month

It's almost Valentine's Day....

Non-Fiction Here I Come... sort of...

January Recap

January Date Night

January's New Recipe

January's Vegetable of the Month

Pink Socks

A Facelift and A New Title

Nothing

Michael Buble - Haven't Met You Yet

Great News

December 31, 2009

December 30, 2009

December 29, 2009

December 28, 2009

December 27, 2009

December 26, 2009

December 25, 2009

December 24, 2009

December 23,2009

December 22, 2009

December 21, 2009

December 20, 2009

December 19, 2009

December 18, 2009

December 17, 2009

December 16, 2009

December 15, 2009

Babies Are Rock Stars... or tidbits from the first 10 weeks of parenthood WARNING contains lots of pictures