Animated

I grew up a big Simpsons fan (my Dad still thinks I remind him of Lisa Simpson), so naturally I was bummed I missed the opening weekend of the big feature length film. We do plan to catch it Wednesday night when there aren't as many crowds at the theatre.

In the meantime I logged on to www.simpsonizeme.com and became my own Simpsons character! All you do is upload a photo of yourself and pick a few options and presto-chango, you are yellow and animated. I can't stop laughing at it.

Check it out...


I wonder what my loved ones would look like. Hmmm...

More Pics from Family Time

My Dad just forwarded these pics from his visit here last weekend.

I think this one exhibits just how odd John is...



and how Duke is oblivous to me!

Bachelorette Extravaganza

So Saturday was Erin's bachelorette party. We were joined by Erin's sister and matron of honor, Tina, her other bridesmaids Emily and Melissa and good friends Amy and Vanessa. We arrived at the Valley Ho resort in Scottsdale late morning to begin the festivities. The Valley Ho has a very swanky late 50s vibe and the rooms were decorated as such. I thought it was a really cool place to stay, especially when we got out on our balcony that wrapped an entire corner of the building.




We spent the afternoon lounging at the pool which was complete with comfy chairs, waiters and even a DJ. We all had fun scoping out the ridiculous ladies wearing high heels with their bikinis and trying to guess which celeb they were attempting to look like.



I had the most relaxing massage ever about mid-day. It was worth every penny. They had a spa right on site which made things convenient. My masseuse seemed slightly concerned that I had an abundance of knots in my back but did a fantastic job getting them out. She finished by telling me sternly to take better care of myself.

After that we all got ready to head out to dinner at Trader Vics near the hotel and drinking and dancing at the Devil's Martini. Erin was a good sport about wearing all the adornments that Emily and I picked up for her. That night we all spent so much time on the dance floor that my feet were tingling.




Erin gave us all buttons describing our role for the night. I got "Vamp" which I'm acting out after doing a few shots in the pic below.


We all had tons of fun and I can't tell you how nice it was to be out on the town with a group of girls.



Just another month now until Erin's wedding!

AZ Visit

I had a whirlwind trip over the weekend, flying in early Friday morning and leaving early Sunday morning. Definitely wish I had more time but it was still great to see my family.

When I got in on Friday Mom, Amy and I had a tasty lunch of chicken and my favorite homemade potato salad that my Mom makes for me whenever I come in. After that it was a quick trip to Starbucks for a pick-me-up.
Then we did some shopping at Nordstrom Rack where I found a killer Free People dress on clearance. I can't wait to wear it. Afterward we headed up to Nanny's and out to dinner at one of the best mexican restaurants I know of, Abuelo's. Aunt Beth met us there, too and it was wonderful to all be together.

I know everyone is glad that I'm happy out here in PA but it sure gets hard sometimes being away from them. I miss them tons and hope they know they are thought of often.

Here are some pics...

World's Best Mom


World's Best Grandma


World's Best Sister

All that Glitters

After searching stores far and wide I finally was able to track down my favorite flip-flops by Reef at the King of Prussia Nordstrom.



I'm very particular and will only buy the thin strap ones in black. For $20 I like some versatility.

I've been gearing up for my weekend jaunt in Arizona for my best bud Erin's bachlorette party. I'm in on Friday and out Sunday morning. I feel like such a jet setter!
Tonight I'll be getting my eyebrows waxed and picking up some new DVD's for the long plane ride. And mark my words I'll be rushing to the newstand on Friday at the airport to pick up my copy of OK! Magazine so that I can read about the train wreck that is Britney Spears. You know it ya'll! I'm such a sick sucker for celebrity gossip. It's really quite disgusting. I do offset it with the daily local news and NPR but must admit to my true passion of being on the ball with Hollywood. What goes on is so absurd you can't help but watch and I guess it doesn't hurt that I have a brother who works for E! News or friends that encourage me. Yesterday Erin called on her way to work to see what the latest was on Lindsey Lohan since I'm two hours ahead of her. I do what I can.

Family Time

Friday was a very exciting day. John and I went to the car dealership in Hatboro to purchase his new Dodge Nitro SUV. He's lucky enough to have his work make his car payment (and pay for gas) so we could get something really cool. Saturday afternoon we picked up my Dad in our new ride and went directly to Aunt Donna's so that she and the kids could visit with my Dad for awhile. We sat on the deck and ate a delicious chopped steak sandwich from Coco's. Unfortunately, that evening ended with Dad and John winning two against one in favor of a trip to the movies and Transformers. I'm pretty sure I'm now semi-deaf from the extreme amount of explosions and corny catch phrases.

Sunday we stopped over in Reading to take John's Mom to brunch for her 55th birthday. Then we took Dad up to Adamstown, about 10 min. from Reading, for some antique shopping. John and I picked up this really cool old tan and slate colored shutter that we hung above the TV.

It was a long day but we bounced back with dinner at Ralph's in South Philly. Dad had ravioli, John veal and I fettuccine alfredo. We topped it off with cheesecake and canoli's, then rolled our fat butts home. Dad fell asleep in the car for the second time. He says it's the cool PA air. I think it's food coma.

Hallelujah!

My I-Tunes prayers have been answered! I emailed the tech support folks after getting nowhere on hold for 30 minutes last night. They responded promptly by telling me how "upsetting" it must be to lose so much "valuable" music. The next few paragraphs detailed how I could get all the songs I had purchased back with a few easy steps. They cautioned me to back up all my songs as they are very important. Let's just say I am one happy camper today!

John always says there is no reason to worry as things just work themselves out. I'm not sure he understands that worry is part of my genetic make-up. Not easily changed.

My Dad is flying into town today. He'll be staying with us for the weekend and then has a work conference in Philadelphia Mon.-Wed. I'm trying to think of fun things to do tomorrow. I wish I was better at that kind of thing. Probably should have started thinking of all this a few weeks ago but time just sneaks up on me lately...

Heaven help me

I'm distraught today.

I got home yesterday afternoon and to my delight, our new I-Mac computer was waiting for me (yes, we took the Mac plunge). After hours of setting it up, even going so far as to clear off and clean the desk and surrounding area to ensure the Mac's pleasant move out of the box and into our home, I sat down with my cell to call the Apple Care Center. I was having severe worry over whether or not all my I-Tunes (722 to be exact) would make their way safely to the new computer. The gal on the other end Cindy, assured me that all I had to do was plug it in and the library would transfer over easily. So I did. And she was mistaken.

I must have gotten confused over this message that popped up. I thought it was telling me to transfer the songs by clicking yes. Little did I know that would mean it would ERASE EVERYTHING!!! I was left with one Fresh Air Podcast. That was it! I wanted to throw up. It's all gone. The only songs I had backed up were my oldies from past cds. Nothing that I had purchased new. Can't even remember all the names of songs I painstakingly hand selected for my unique enjoyment from the I-Tunes store. Approximately $200 worth of music gone. I am in a state of shock. How could this happen?

I frantically searched the web for ways to recover the music. Some blogger suggested I contact Apple about getting them recovered. I'll do whatever it takes. I just hope they take pity on me.

As of this morning I hate the new Mac. It betrayed me. I was so excited about all the cool things I could do with it's help but now I want to never see it again.

Daily Grind

I would describe my Tuesday work day as horrendous. Just look at my desk...

My customers can be so demanding and half the time I want to tell them to piss off. This one woman fell into a case of raging bitch picky-itus, while another must not have even read his contract. But alas, it's all part of my job selling to homeowners. So glad it's behind me...for now!

Oh, and in case you were wondering, my 'desk' is our office conference table and I'm surrounded by the window sample graveyard. At least there is plenty of natural light!

So, I just got done reading this fantastic memoir called "The End of the World As We Know It" by Robert Goolrick. His writing style sucked me right in and his tales of his rocky past are told with such honesty that you can't put it down. He tells the history of his life through sections that aren't chronological in nature. I really like that style. I must say though, it isn't for the faint of heart as his stories are both shocking and disturbing.

We hired our videographer yesterday. I wasn't sure if I wanted a wedding video as sometimes they come out so sappy, which is definitely not me, but this gal is so easy going we can ask her to edit it any way we like and she was at another friend's wedding working and we didn't even notice her. That to me is a huge plus. People have been telling me in droves that you miss so much of the day caught up in nerves and excitement so it will probably be nice to watch after the honeymoon. Now, if I can only just handle being followed around my entire wedding day by a video camera...

Fun in the sun

Yesterday I spent a wonderful afternoon on the beach in Margate with my cousin Olivia. We always have so much to entertain ourselves with so it's never a dull moment and I really enjoy her company. We got down there nice and early so it wasn't too crowded and the weather was perfect. I guess it was too perfect, though, as I didn't feel myself baking in the sun. When I got home I was fried. Luckily I had the new strapless bathing suit top so it should turn in to a normal looking tan, but you know I'm feeling it today! I am also trying my hardest to drink more water. I don't know if I'm just not ever thirsty or what but it's a struggle. Thankfully my dear friend/bridesmaid Nicole is a rep for Fiji water so I have extra motivation to stay hydrated. Gotta support my pals!

Everyone cross their fingers as I'm headed to a big sales call this afternoon. Need to keep those commission checks rolling in!

Random Things

Ugh! Our computer at home is on the fritz. It turns on but nothing appears on the screen. I think we might just opt for a repair even though it's probably pushing six years old. John and I were recently lured into the beautifully clean and cool Apple store a few weeks ago where we both fell in love with the I-Mac desktop computer. The things you can do on it is amazing. Just a bit more than I'd hoped to spend right now. We'll see... I've heard terrible things about Windows Vista so even though I haven't used a Mac since 11th grade we don't want to take the PC risk again.

I'm thinking I might try to catch some sun at the shore again this weekend. I'm gearing up to be a bridesmaid in Erin's wedding in just two short months and don't want to look like an albino. Last week I ordered this strapless bikini top from the Gap. I'd highly recommend it. It's sporty enough to support ya with an under wire and comes in a basic black.

Also, almost every day for lunch I devour Lean Cuisine meals. Not sure if I'm losing weight because of them but I like to think so. My uncle/boss yells when I cook anything in the office microwave, as the smell normally lingers for a good hour, but it's worth it! My favorites are the Panini's and good ol' Mac & Cheese.

Brother from another mother

I forgot to say that yesterday I got a voice mail from my dear friend Kyle who was at the airport on his way to India for a month. He's doing a photography exploration trip. Last week I told him to be sure to call me before he left and he actually remembered. Very out of character but touching nonetheless. I wish I would have heard the phone. I don't get to see him that much but he was here this past June in PA visiting his girlfriend Ann's family for awhile and it was awesome to be able to have them both over to the house for dinner. I hope if he reads this he knows we'll all be thinking of him and wish him a safe and fun trip!

Bump in the Road

I'm just having an out of sorts kind of day. Yesterday we met with the priest of our local Catholic church and his rules regarding our wedding ceremony were a bit overwhelming. It's because it falls during Easter week. I am not the best Catholic, so I assumed since our wedding day was a week after Easter this would not be in the way. Apparently, it continues the week after the day as well. A lot of the ceremony has to be geared toward Easter then. Not sure exactly what this entails. John has to call him and go over it again today. When he asked me if I had any questions yesterday, I froze. I was also told I'd have to start the ceremony at 2 pm which I didn't want. Again, lots of rules.

It's really hard to want to be a part of a church and then be faced with all the hindrances. John is a much more go-with-the-flow kind of person which is the complete opposite to my freak-out-over-everything self. When I think he isn't understanding my thought process, I normally call Erin and she'll tell me if I'm being crazy or not. It's really nice to be both going through weddings at the same time so we can vent to each other.

Anyway, I'll try not to stress about this stuff until I have some more answers. 'Try' being the operative word.

Here's a pic of the church...

Quiz Me

Last year John and I were hooked on this game show on VH1 that we stumbled upon one evening. It's called the World Series of Pop Culture. A few days ago they premiered a new season and I'm telling you, it's addicting! Teams of three compete to see who knows the most crap about music, TV, movies, fads, etc. Time periods range from the 70's to today. Some of you may know that I'm a nut for this stuff. I own every version of Trivial Pursuit featuring the questions of today...20th anniversary, 90s, 80s, etc. There was a period of time where John and I would play this on a regular basis, skipping nights out on the town to drink at the kitchen table and slaughter each other in competition. Now we can do it sitting on our butts in front of the TV. Let's just say it's not much of a competition as I am quite good. However, I do admit to freezing over late 80s/early 90s rap music, but I knew I kept John around for a reason.

Check out VH1's online version and test your skills http://www.worldofpop.com

Monday here and I'm feeling a bit better than I did last week. Lots of flem but I can't complain...

Saturday night John and I went to church. We discovered the 5 pm mass which flies by and it kinda feels good to have your entire Sunday free. That night we went to dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants called Cafe La Fontana. We are considering it for the rehearsal dinner location. It's about 5 min. from the church/our house. Then it was off to the movies where we saw Pirates of the Caribbean. I'd like to make a note that John and I have to take turns when it comes to movies out. He picks then I pick, etc. It's how he ensures he gets to see action packed man movies and me chick flicks. If we both agree on something then a turn is skipped until next time. It's really a perfect science. Except of course that I get roped into three hour pirate epics with horrible endings.

Sunday it was a 14 (yes 14) mile bike ride through Forbidden Trail near Roxborough. It's definitely up there with Kelly Drive as one of my favorites. Nice, wide, not too hilly, trails. We did drive up to his mom's house in Reading for dinner later that night and as always I ate way too much while there and felt fat and full.

Today I emailed our DJ prospect to say we were ready to move forward with him. His name is Fred Hart (uh-huh) and here is his photo. We went to a wedding in January where he was the DJ and thought he was awesome. Anyone who likes to shake it on the dance floor will definitely agree!

Burn Notice

This morning while driving to work I was panicking over what I can only describe as a loud banging noise every time I came to a stop. Now, since I drive around 45 min. back and forth on the PA turnpike/202 every day I tend to worry non-stop about the working condition of my car.
The sound seemed to be coming from underneath my hood, like an animal was trapped and was trying to pound it's way out.

John suggested I go to a service station to see if they could take a look. The mechanic actually laughed in my face when I explained (with hand gestures) what I thought was happening. After about two seconds of looking underneath he removes with pliers this long, metal shaped dome.

Apparently it's called a heat shield and is used to protect mechanics from burning themselves when working under cars. It came loose and was dragging itself near my front tire (I didn't say I was skilled in pinpointing the sounds). He said I have to remember to warn the next person who takes a look under there about the missing part so that it doesn't burn them badly, but thank heavens I can drive in peace for ahwile.

My Hero

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July! Yesterday we went to a bbq at the sister of John's good friend Bo's house. There was lots of food and fun to be had. I, however, am under the weather with yet another head cold (I think I'm up to 4 now for 2007) so tried to mingle while secretly wiping my runny nose in the bathroom. I must admit to being a bit sad that we couldn't watch fireworks due to the downpour of rain we had last night, but I guess there is always next year.

I got a letter on Tuesday from my kind and heroic youngest brother Danny who is currently serving in Iraq. I actually got home from mailing him a small box to find his letter which details how he is doing over there and how difficult some days can be. Through it all I can see how mature he has become and focused on his goals for when he leaves the military next year. He returns to the U.S. in October to his base in Hawaii but if anyone would like to send him a care package or letter in the meantime, I know he and his fellow platoon members would greatly appreciate it. Just contact me for the address.

Here is a picture of Danny with my sister Amy and I a few months back.

Dot me crazy

For some reason I just can't get enough of stripes and polka dots (note blog background and photo of me to the right with my Aunt Ginny) and obviously Martha Stewart agrees with me. Thanks to the beauty of her website and my best friend Erin's wonderful idea of a subscription to her magazine for my engagement gift, I've been able to dive in to this plan for my wedding invites, programs etc.

http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.3a0656639de62ad593598e10d373a0a0/?vgnextoid=d738ce908332f010VgnVCM1000003

I just met with our ad design person here at work. She's freelance so in addition to making awesome ads for our window company, she is going to design my paper wedding needs which I'll have printed on my own. I'm very excited about this and think it'll be fun to be so hands on.

Funny Ha-Ha

I do have to point out another recent favorite addition to my TV watching schedule and that is the HBO comedy series Flight of the Conchords.

HBO.com synopsis describes it the best:

Flight of the Conchords follows the trials and tribulations of a two man, digi-folk band from New Zealand as they try to make a name for themselves in their adopted home of New York City. The band is made up of Bret McKenzie on guitar and vocals, and Jemaine Clement on guitar and vocals. Bret and Jemaine have moved to New York in the hope of forging a successful music career. So far they've managed to find a manager (whose "other" job is at the New Zealand Consulate), one fan (a married obsessive) and one friend (who owns the local pawn shop) -- but not much else.

Now this is a definite must see for people who enjoy a "unique" sense of humor. I laughed so hard last night that I was having trouble breathing. They sing these songs in the middle of a scene that are some of the most creative things I've heard in a long time and all to a beat that could have been pulled from a Casio keyboard. Genius.

I definitely had one of those weekends that so much took place it was hard to remember it all.

Friday we had a delicious pizza dinner at Jules Thin Crust in Doylestown. It's all organically made and comes out on a long wood plank. Yum! Then it was off to see the much anticipated Michael Moore documentary "Sicko". I have to say that while I have mixed feelings about him personally (see documentary about Ralph Nader "An Unreasonable Man") he really is an excellent film maker. This was a very powerful and I thought well researched movie. It's shocking to see where we are as a nation compared to other countries regarding health care and how we treat our own. I got very emotional during the last 30 min. Definitely worth checking out.

Saturday was a blur or much necessary beauty appointments followed up by a fun dinner at South Philly favorite Chickie and Pete's with my friend Adrienne and her husband Sam who were in town checking out the area as a potential home after they both finish grad school in D.C. next year. I am crossing my fingers they choose PA. I'd love to have great friends close by.

On Sunday John and I drove down to the Jersey Shore for a day in the sun. I dropped him off at his Dad's condo in Somer's Point so he could do some fishing and I then met up with my cousin Lauren and her awesome friend Mary in Sea Isle. It was so nice to be able to sit on the beach and have girl talk! I got a bit sunburned but that is to be expected since I'm about as pasty as humanly possible. I hope to get down there more before the summer runs out. It's moving by so fast that I fear I might blink and it'll be over.