Norwegian Rants

Movin' blogs!

2011-09-30T12:03:00.001-07:00

Hey Heather.
Hey Anne.
Hey anyone else.
(I think you're the only two that may have this in your google reader.)

I'm taking up blogging again. This time, a topic based. Finally starting my food blog.

Check me at...
brittasmouth.wordpress.com

kicking off the end of a decade

2010-06-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

Hello blog. It's been awhile. Sorry. Plan to be better.

Reality has set in. The big 3-0 is looming. I recently marked my 29th birthday, and to be honest, I may have a harder time with this one than next years. There are so many things that I've always wanted to do before 30. If feels like I have to squeeze in as much fun as possible.

Though logically, I know it's quite different. It is just and age, and moreover - one that signifies potentially having your 'shit' a bit more together. I'm actually looking forward to potentially finding a bit more stability and normalizing... I guess that's called 'growing up', whatever that is.

My late 20's have been quite the exploration of self.
26: The year of partying and friendship. I became close to some people that I'm so lucky to have, and rekindled friendships with others. I also partied my f-ing ass off. If you were around this year, thank you for letting me make a complete ass of myself. The stories are some that still crack me up and I'll never forget (though some memories are hazy). Some decisions were, well, suspect and out of character. However, I was giving myself a kitchen pass to recover... and well, had a great time.

27: The year of extreme highs and lows. I made great memories with amazing people. Loved my job. Fell in love. Hard. The can't breath because you're filled with butterflies kind. It was an unsustainable high. Then, everything I knew and expected washed out from under me. In one completely painful swoop. Was laid off. And well, Cubemate-Gate 2009. 'Nough said. But, I came out in the year still smiling and knowing it was all for the best.

28: The year of stabilization and recovery. I moved 5 states away from everything I knew and focused on my career. This has lead to a much more quite, grown up social life. Though at times it hasn't been easy... I knew that I needed to get out of MPLS, recover and take care of myself after the bumpy ride at 27. And, I'm glad I have. I've learned more about myself... and, as bitter as I can be some days, have worked my ass off and learned a lot professionally.

Now, the question is 29. What kind of year will this be. I have no clue. To help me ease into 30, I've decided to set goals for the year. To help meet do some of the things I've thought I had a long time to do, since 30 was so far off.

Here they are... (note: this is a WIP and may grow)
1) Run a marathon (locked and loaded for the TC Marathon Oct 3, training going really well)
2) Climb a 14er
3) Maintain my goal weight (sorry, I'm a girl)
4) Be good at birthday's and holiday's - remember cards, have them be on time, etc - be thoughtful.
5) Master snailmail - getting real makes my day, make the days of others.
6) Travel! Take at least one big trip (that's not just visiting the midwest... currently in talks for Australia with Miss Jennie Moore)
7) Read one book a month
8) Stay up-to-date in current events - reading the Times and WSJ more regularily
9) Listen to NPR more
10) Blog. Track my goals here for you all... and potentially start that story blog that I've been talking about for, well, ever.
11) Volunteer every other month - 6 times.
12) Go to church regularly
13) Get back to my musical background - taking in more culture (orchestra, ballet, art, etc).
14) Plan something completely awesome for my 30th bday

So, now that I've put it out there for my approximately 1-3 readers... I have to do it.

Here's to my 29. Here's to finishing my 20's the way I want. Or... something.

Oh Grandma...

2010-04-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

My Grandma Arlene was the queen of pranks. Whether be in the church office on co-workers, tricking friends on Halloween, or getting my grandpa after he returned in the morning from working the night shift at the refinery - she got 'em.

This past week marked the year anniversary of my Grandma Arlene's passing. Though the week has a lot of hard memories (both with my grandma, and a well, when life combusted in on itself), my family decided to uphold her tradition.

We did what grandma would do. Prank her friends. We ordered pizza's to a few of her friends homes, to show a bit Larson love and some emmense confusion. Granted, we aren't there to witness it... but nothing but a bit of innocent fun - to uphold her honor.

Miss and love you always grandma. We'll see what brainstorming we do for next year...

Dear 2009...

2010-01-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

Usually, I do a blog post as my summary of a year. Kind of my public reflection of the year - the good, the bad, etc. I know that it's nearly half way through January and I have yet to do this.

Well... That's because I have no idea where to even begin on 2009. I've started many posts, but have yet to finish one. And, I've decided to handle it in a bit of a series of 2009. I've spent a lot of time reflecting on all that happened recently - which has caused a slight anti-social side of my personality (that is also helped by my recent break from alcohol... which may be ending soon).

So, my post series (which, lets be honest, is just mainly for myself) is coming.

2009, you were not fine. Yes, there were some great, amazing times and I'm thankful for a lot, but overall - you were a little bit on the brutal side.

However, as a preview - though I just discovered this song. It damn well would have been my anthem.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYCzDhaRV60

Dear Subaru Drivers: Drive

2009-11-04T21:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Subaru Drivers of Colorado (i.e. most drivers of Colorado),

You have all wheel drive. I know, right? It's crazy! It's means a lot of good things - like you can drive when it rains and snow... and all sorts of elements in between.

I bet, dear Subaru driver, you actually bought your car because of this amazing safety feature. (That coupled with the ready to go outdoorsiness).

What does this mean? You can actually drive! Meaning, faster that 20 mph, or perhaps just actually move forward or do anything. But, please know - all of the safety features for why you PURCHASED your car, mean you don't need to treat it like it's a glass box about to shatter.

Thank you,
Other Colorado Drivers

HAPPY LAUNCH DAY!

2009-10-22T13:52:00.001-07:00

So... launch means nothing to me, my work still comes. But, Happy Win 7 Launch day regardless. It's the largest consumer product launch in history, surpassed Harry Potter as the number one pre-ordered product.

Needless to say, it's pretty cool to be a part of.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/22/business/media/22adco.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1256234535-UYQMyMTMfekPtjEMfsJrKg

Dear Sir - Don Draper is fictional

2009-10-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

A perk of leaving on production during fall sweeps is coming back to a plump full DVR (remember, I don't have a lot of social commitments out here... a full DVR is glorious). And in that, Mad Men was waiting for me.

As I've been watching and catching up - something hit me. I think many men in advertising - or at least some I've come across - think they're actually Don Draper. They want to gallivant, make ladies swoon, and attempt to have overly insightful one off comment, like Mr. Draper.

Well... all you wanna-be Drapers, I have some bad news. His character is fictional, let alone it's a time period piece. In this day and age... there are no Don Drapers. There's a reason it's fascinating and interesting.

So please. Don't think you're actually Mr. Draper, sir. Please understand that when you gallivant, it's different. Why? It's not the 60's. It's 2009.

Are you awesome?

2009-10-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you come across things that are interesting. In a turn from FML, BFA - be fucking awesome - has launch. I kind of like it. I'd rather reflect on the ways people are awesome than the way peoples lives are screwed. Maybe a bit more of a positive twist?

http://befuckingawesome.com/

Don't get me wrong, I love FML. But, a nice, more positive spin, never hurt.

Best stop.

2009-10-11T22:25:00.000-07:00

After a whirlwind trip, endless days, and long hours. The thought of going straight back to Boulder and jumping right back in to the grind was hard.

So. I didn't.

I made a quick stop in Minneapolis (18 hot hours). And I am so glad I did.

I'm so blessed with amazing friends. I've been reflective lately and the one thing that I always come back to is how lucky I am. My friends ground me and just make me laugh.

Seeing their smiling faces, hearing the latest stories was exactly what I needed to get right back into the groove.

So... THANK YOU MINNNNNEEEAAAPOOOOLISS!

London, bad for tall people

2009-10-11T22:02:00.000-07:00

My final morning in London was a typical London morning. Gray and rainy. Since it was the end of my stint, I wanted to run a few last places, so I took to the streets for a morning walk. Sans umbrella.

This was a mistake. I realized, that umbrella's not only serve as a way to protect against the drown rat look that I was now possessing, but also as a defense mechanism. Apparently, I'm much taller than most people in London - or at least were walking the streets that rainy morning. I had to dodge umbrella's or pokes to the eye left and right, with a few bare misses. One got so close, when I gasped at the loss of the eye, the person carrying the umbrella gave me a dirty look and mumbled something about getting my own.

So, my learning to share with you all is... even if you think you don't need an umbrella. Or you think you're fine with wet hair. Bring an umbrella - for the sake of your eyes, limbs and overall well being.

Security Pro

2009-10-06T01:43:00.000-07:00

This production has required a lot of time in airports. Thus, resulting in going through security, what feels like constantly.

In total, I will have gone through security 10 times and hung out in Denver, LaGuardia, JKF, Heathrow, Orly, Berlin, Charles du Gaulle, Stansted, Minneapolis-St Paul. (note, some of these airports were numerous visits)

Regardless, I'm ready to not be in an airport, on a plane or eat airport food for awhile.

Ok, I get it now.

2009-10-06T01:23:00.000-07:00

I have to say, over the last few years, I've learned more about proper football (or soccer). But, never really gotten it. Sure, I've watched games, cheered, and watched my nephews. But, through it all, I've always been more interested in the beer drinking (or seeing my cute nephews in that case).

However, that changed while in London.

A perk of being on production is having the production company perks. They try to impress you in some way. This time, I was VERY impressed. Our EP got us tickets to the Liverpool v. Chelsea game.

All I can say is what an amazing experience. I now get the EPL football (soccer) experience and obsession. I've never been to a major game - let alone such a big rivalry. It was amazing. We were in the Liverpool fan section - so the die hards that follow the team. We didn't sit down.

My mom would have been impressed by the high volume of men singing - it was the most entertaining boys choir I've ever heard. However, I'm not sure she would have loved the content. Chants, singing cheering, cursing, you name it - it happened. (Though, I will not share the things heard, as my mom sometimes reads this.) Regardless, I've never heard some of these word combinations.

The visiting fans are treated a bit like cattle as your ushered through turnstyles. HAD Liverpool won (which was the bummer of the day), we would have been kept in a holding cell while the police shoed the Chelsea fans away. The game was such a cool experience - the cheers back and forth, the passion for the game. Nothing - no Vikes v. Packs, college football rivals, Twins v. White Sox, even Red Sox v. Yankee's - compairs to this. I'm still cleaning out my ears, giggling and singing the chants (or at least humming as I couldn't actually understand the words).

Through seeing the passion and sitting in the Liverpool section, now, they're my team. Yup. I'll jump on the one game bandwagon and have no qualms about it.

Besides, I was told cheering for Chelsea is like cheering for the Yankee's (with out their long history, as some Russian just dumped a bunch of money at them - hence the cheer repeating "you fat bastard" - sorry mom). As a Twins fan, any comparison to the Yankee's, you simply have to cheer for the other team. I think it's written in the DNA.

Through all the random tidbits... wow. What an amazing experience. I'm still washing my ears out with soap (or whatever you do when you hear bad things).

Another epic run

2009-10-05T02:40:00.000-07:00

Upon arriving in London, I went out for a quick run. However, it was mid-day on a Friday. So, the sidewalks to get anywhere were quite busy. A block in, I tripped. On my own pants. On Regents Street. In front of Burberry. Nothing says "HELLO LONDON CLASS" like tripping on your own pants so badly it takes 5 steps to recover, each step thinking 'oh shit, I'm going down'. Thankfully, around step 5 or 6 and a few British gasps from onlookers later, I recovered. And tried to hightail it out of there as soon as possible.

I ran through the shopping are to St. James Park. It was lovely - and so clean. I love the parks right in the heart of the city. And, they're is a park to run in close to whereever you are.

Though, I did, once again get lost. Instead of running around the Arc though, I was lost amongst brand name stores and British shoppers. While sweaty.

Sigh... I finally found my hotel, and my mistake (street names change here as well). I just know now - turn at Banana Republic.

Oh London, I love you.

2009-10-05T02:16:00.000-07:00

London has been the first leg of this trip that I've actually been able to enjoy the city a bit.

We're in the main shopping area (trouble, especially with the current GBP USD converstion). But also - have gotten some time to explore and just absorb the city.

Walking through the parks and the downtown area - you're reminded how proper things are here. It's nice. Just organized, and they care about all of the details.

The neighborhoods are also amazing, exactly what so many places in America try to replicate, yet never get it quite right.

It's such an easy city to get around and navigate. I quite enjoy it.

Au revoir Paris!

2009-10-05T02:11:00.000-07:00

Paris is a city that I've never really loved. It just seems overwhelming and like SO MUCH. It's likely part language barrier, part French personalities, and overall different, non-relaxing feeling.

However, this trip, I was able to get to a place where I appreciated it for what it is. I am actually looking forward to a trip back, where I really understand what I'm seeing. What I'm looking at, etc.

And if not that... just to eat.

French Engineering?

2009-10-05T02:07:00.000-07:00

Shoot days always bring something unexpected and interesting. On our Paris shoot day, this resulted in the car not starting. It was a beautiful car... but as we were set to do the driving footage, it was as dead as a doornail.

What was perhaps the most entertaining was the guidance that the American's had to provivde (myself and my producer that doesn't own a car). Things like 'it's probably the battery, we should look to jump it'. (While the manual is out.) Or, 'it's maybe not a good idea to smoke directly above the engine'. Or, my personal favorite, 'we probably shouldn't put the other end of the jump cables in the puddle under the car'.

Regardless, we got the car started, and moved on ... with only 45 minutes or so of lost time.

A mid-day run

2009-09-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

Today I forcibly went for a run (production/overconsumption blues). It was really brilliant. Felt good (well for the most part). I ran down passed the 'Diana Tunnel' and memorial for that (at the base of my street), down the Sein to the Louvre and through the parks leading up to the museum. Then ran back down the Boulevard (where the Nazi's took over/protests take place) to the Arc di Triumph.

Here's a few things from my run:
1) It's great, when in production blues/feeling out of shape, to run in Paris. You can easily justify stopping with the need to take a photo (clearly I did).
2) It's pretty awesome to run with the Eiffle Tower behind you and the Louvre in front.
3) There's some crazy new monster statues next to super old one armed status - very cool, yet odd. I bet the one armed woman never thought she's be placed next to a monster making a face.
4) America has less cobblestone and grates 4 inches up (explaining the complete tripping and falling).
5) When your hotel is 'right off of the Arc' and you think you can tell based on the look of the arc/perspective from your photos - please do note all 4 sides look the same. I spent 35 minutes running in a cirlce. My own, on foot version of "Hey Kids, look Big Ben, Parliment".

Gay Paree

2009-09-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

Paris is definitely the leg of the trip that feel most out of place. I'm a total fish out of water. I didn't study much French history, let alone Parisian architecture, so I'm looking at beautiful buildings and have no clue what I'm looking at (note, most looking done from the back of a cab or a van).

Also - I think my Nordic tongue and German language studies make impossible for my mouth to even form the right words or sounds. I have no idea out to shape my mouth or to even make the sounds. I clearly didn't study any Romantic language.

However, in driving past the Louvre yesterday, I was more comfortable as Lionel Richie's Up All Night played on the radio. I guess some Americanisms you can't escape - even when you feel ilke a foriegner - it can still haunt you.

"You may have my pants"

2009-09-26T14:41:00.001-07:00

One aspect of traveling for an extended amount of time for work is having a PA or the hotel do your laundry. It's great. It's usually cleaned better than you ever do, and folded nicely - even then things I never fold are actually properly folded.

However, this led to quite (and I mean in the proper British quite) awkward exchange with a co-worker. We each got half of each other's laundry. So I snatched out what was mine, and gave it back to the hotel manager.

However, it did result in my needing to send an email with the subject line saying "You my have my pants".

The response? "Yes, I believe I do. And perhaps your cardigan."

Language Barriers

2009-09-26T07:01:00.000-07:00

So, right when I would be getting used to the basic 'please/thank yous' in each country. We'd move. This has caused complete language confusion for me. I have been throwing in every word I know - in ever language.

Here's just a few languages I've gotten strange looks for using:
Spanish - Hola, Si
Russian - Da (the look was quite funny I got)
German - Sometimes right, sometimes wrong
French - I now am using merci in Germany
English - obviously
Italian - because I don't know what excuse me is in any other language.

At least most people know my default language.

Bretzel

2009-09-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts of Germany (as prior mentioned) is the soft pretzels. They're everywhere. You get them instead of bread (or peanuts on the plan). I love soft pretzel, so this works out well for me. However, I do find myself missing the little cup of fake cheese that usual comes with them in the states. Don't get me wrong, mustard is good. But, nothing goes with a soft pretzel like chemical cheese (and I'm being serious).

Don't get me wrong - it's not like I'm going to PASS on them, but I'm just saying... sometimes they're better with some good 'ole American fake cheese.

Norm has friends!

2009-09-25T04:50:00.000-07:00

I recently came across information that talks about a forest in the UK being known as a place where the trees all have faces.

Clearly - I felt I could relate, since I have Norm.
(And, if you're reading and are confused who Norm is, he's my tree back in Boulder. He has a face, a personality and is perfect for late night conversations.)

I felt like Norm does have a place in this world - and tree friends he could relate to. Only bummer is, they all live in the UK - and from the sounds, getting a working Visa for him to move there is pretty tough.

Clearly, I'm going to show Norm the video series when back home.

Home

2009-09-25T04:41:00.000-07:00

So, I sometimes forget I don't live in Minneapolis anymore.

When I get tired and a bit homesick, or even visualize going back to the states - I think of going home to 821 Douglas in Mpls - not Boulder. I actually have to remind myself that I live in CO and try to visually think of my place.

It will probably feel like home one day. Or, won't as 'home is where the heart is' and so many of my people are in Mpls.

It's a fun adventure. But, it's still weird to anwser the question 'where are you from?' and say Boulder, CO.

German Streets

2009-09-25T04:34:00.000-07:00

So back in the day, when Jesse Ventura was Governor of MN, he couldn't handle St Paul's street system. If I recall correctly, he thought that the drunk Irish must have planned the city because it didn't make sense.

Clearly, he has never been to Germany. Or at least Berlin.

In mapping my route to walk to Checkpoint Charlie yesterday, I wrote down all of the streets to take to get there thanks to the map that also serves as art in my room.

I took off thinking my plan was perfect - a quick 30 minute walk/break. This was not the case whatsoever. The streets change names. I literally walked on a street -without making one turn - and it changed names 5 times.

I did finally find Checkpoint Charlie. Snapped a few photos, and was off again. And since late, taking a conference call while walking (and stopping to take an occational photo), only hoping there were no sirens to pass buy.

Time Zones are totally overrated

2009-09-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

So, I actually have no idea what time it is. Ever. My BB and my computer are still at Boulder time (MST), and I know we've switched from London to Paris/Berlin time. I think it's 9 hours different than Boulder - but am not quite sure.

This means, I've set my alarm for 9 pm (to get up at 5 am), and just utter confusion.

It also means I don't really sleep, as I am partially working Boulder time AND Berlin time.

So, right now - ask me what time it is? I'll likely tell you what MST or CST is.

Quite

2009-09-24T15:07:00.001-07:00

So, my creative team is an Aussie/Kiwi (depending on the conv, he switches) and a Brit. And, I've started picking up their vocabulary ever so much.

Using:
Brilliant
Proper
Quite
Civilized

And, through this, learned that American's use of 'quite' is very - making it much better. Where, Brit's use it as a bit more of a mediocure word. So, saying 'it was quite nice to meet you', is actually saying it was only rather ok to meet you.

I'm now using quite properly.

I Mell Sumsing

2009-09-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

Each city so far (or hotel) has had a very distinct smell.

NYC - East Village pee. Natch.

London - Callbacks smelled like an old beard, or rat. Hard to tell.

Paris - Hotel smelled was overly perfumed like a trying to hard escort, and the room looked like she decorated it too.

Berlin - Sausage. Can't work in my room as much as I'd liked, due to the over powering smell of sausage. Or cheese. Or chemicals. It's quite strange.

My Blog

2009-09-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

My blog is inteded to be a happy blog.

Share tidbits of my life. Observations. Experiences. Stories.(Lets be honest, often about food.)
I'm never going to seek to hurt people. Ever.

So, enjoy this for what it is. Or don't.

Planes, trains, and automobiles.

2009-09-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Since leaving NYC on Saturday at 7 pm I have been transported via...

-Red Eye from JFK to Heathrow. This is SO not a good red eye because it's not long enough to get a proper sleep.

- Rock star van, seriously. Springsteen had it before us. Clearly it was the perfect transport to take us straight from said non-sleeping red eye to a long day to work.

- Cabs upon cabs upon cabs.

- Eurostar via the Chunnel from London to Paris. To quote my dear friend Brian Treece, I f*ing love the train - it's just so civilized. (even at 6 am)

- A funny smelling van from the train station straight to work. But, it did come with Cocacola Light, unlike Springsteen's.

- Vans and Vans and strange cabs. Paris. Huh.

- 6:30 am flight to Berlin from Paris. Perk. Even pastries from the Paris airport are amazing. This followed by Air Berlin serving SOFT PRETZELS instead of peanuts. It was a carbtastic morning.

- Another strange Mercedes van ... this time only with water - but we had the luxury of actually going to the hotel for 20 minutes before work. It was seriously amazing.

- Since, more vans and foot exploration of Berlin.

This truly is planes trains and automobiles (of all sorts) kind of trip.

Heat Combustion.

2009-09-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

I had a bit of "Britta's luck of 2009" return as I stepped on foriegn soil.

First, while needing it desperately, my laptop died. It would automatically shut down. It was a sad, miserable death. Any my initial thought of what it was - wrong. So though I stayed up late with IT to get it right, still wrong.

It was simply over heating and my fan broke.

The next morning (yes, after up late working on my computer - learning the overheating), while getting ready at 4:30 am, my hair dryer started on fire. Literally fire.

Thankfully, I have not started any actual fires, but I'm nervous to figure out what is next in my 3's of things and heat.

Please dear Lord, don't have it be my new straightener that I paid far to much for. Take anything, but my straightener.

Devil wears Target

2009-09-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

The NYC leg of my trip was a blur. Wowza. I can't recall everything ... and wished I could. Here's a few things...

10) Ran along the West Side Highway, and since it was my only downtime in days - I made phone calls, however the recipients weren't as keen to my multitasking as they had to make out what I was saying from the heavy breathing and iPhone headset that fully shared the wind.

9) Had more boxes delivered to my room than one ever should. It likely looked like I was running something on the black market.

8) Didn't eat dinner before 10. Seriously. Every night. Some were great meals. Some... meh.

7) Had great drinks with the W. My cocktail even had champagne, sauvignon blanc, and mashed grapes.

6)There were numerous days I didn't leave my hotel room, or desk chair for hours but only to pace.

5) I was carrying large boxes all over the city... I felt like Anne Hathaway in Devil Wears Prada and just prayed to not leave something in the cab.

4) The Spotted Pig with Cooperstown family friends (Gary and Sam) was amazing. After a very stressful week, it was SO nice to be with familiar, essentially family, faces and not talk about advertising.

3) I, for all intents and purposes, had my worst day in advertising yet. It was brutal. What felt like my 'first mistake' in my new job (though not entirely my mistake, anyone that knows me knows that I have a personalizing problem).

2) I made magic happen. A Passport. 38 hours. In NYC (passport getting hell). Boom. HUGE BOOM.

1) Prior referenced worst day in advertising, ended at a Fashion Week party for some magazine which we were not only on the 'list' we got 'bumped' in line. Right. I was wearing Target and some sort of not cute shoes.

So, NYC - I'll take you, all your cabs, extra steps to do something, late nights... Just in clothes from Target.

TRAVEL!

2009-09-17T10:11:00.000-07:00

So, a perk (and lets be honest, downfall a bit) of the new gig is travel. I'm currently on a whirlwind shoot around the world. I'll be blogging from the road.

Here's where I'm at:
NYC
London
Paris
Berlin
Paris
London
...

Stay tuned.

Chachachanges

2009-09-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Blog Friends.

It's the worlds worst blogger. Here's a few updates.

I moved. To Boulder CO. To work at Crispin on Microsoft. I'm liking it so far - it has a lot of new challenges - and is definitely not my Mpls Ad scene home - but so far, it will be a good adventure. The best part about moving and having no friends is that you can work all the time - so it is quite convenient.

Other updates... Though likely not 'offically over' life imploding 2009 style is seemingly over. Key word - seemingly. I have a tree that lives out sind of my apartment. He has a face. So, we're totally BFF. In moving, I have gone back to eating like I'm college - mac and cheese and cereal is quite the norm.

AND - I like visitors. SO, come visit. I'm good at finding stuff to do ... even in such a small little city.

Pulled Pork Amazingness

2009-06-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

So, back in the day, I started this blog as a food documentary. Though, it hasn't stayed that... and I haven't been good at it, I'd like to start writing about food again. Mainly, because I like eating.

Last night, I coaxed two friends to join me at Brasa on Grand Ave. I'd been once before and fell in love with their sides - all you need to say is plantains and black beans to go straight to my heart. It was again, nothing short of amazing.

We started with their house made daily Sangria. It was delicious. It was one of the better red Sangria's I've ever had - usually I much prefer the white. My only complaint was that I wished my GLASS contained more fruit, and that's only because it was stuck in the pitcher.

Ordering time brought a tough decision... mainly with the sides. I'm a side kinda girl. Don't get me wrong, I love meat and sandwiches. But when tempted with cornbread, yams, black beans, and spinach... my heart melts.

I opted for the Roasted Pork with Ginger Mayo & Shaved Onions, with sides and sharing a few with my dear roommate. This sandwich may be on my new short list of sandwiches. It was absolutely amazing. First, the role was a lovely chibata - not too hard, and not too soft. It complimented the meat perfectly. The pork wasn't your typical BBQ pulled pork, it was simply with the flavors it had been marinated with. It was tender and had amazing flavor. Pairing this with the sweet of the caramelized onion and spice of the ginger mayo - it was a to die for combination.

Though maybe over ordered, the side selection was impeccable. Tara had gotten a meal that came with two sides, I added one and we both got cornbread (obviously). My favorite were the plantains - hands down. However, I LOVE plantains, so it isn't a hard victory. This was closely followed by the black beans and rice, yam's with sausage, and creamed spinach. This coupled with

Tara got the chicken - which was good - but more than anything the cilantro sauce that it came with was amazing. I could bath in it... it was THAT good. I actually ended up pairing it with everything at some point - it was AMAZING with the plantains.

So, Brasa - with it's new St Paul location - HIGHLY recommended. It doesn't hurt to have a connection with one of the managers, but loved it.

To go or not to go?

2009-06-16T09:49:00.001-07:00

So, I've never been to Vegas. Yes, I'm 28 and never been. But, have always been kind of OK with this fact. I'm not much of a gambler - but enjoy pools, food and shopping, so have always been tempted. However I've mainly not been because, I have a feeling - with some of my friends, it could end up like this ad.

I like the play on the word... but the visual scares me and shows me why exactly I don't want to go to Vegas, for the most part. It's a beautifully shot image, with the artistic flair that you'd expect. Reminds me of some of the Equinox work that Fallon has done in tone... but overall, it scared me. I guess I prefer passing out on my couch with a 1/2 drank Premium.

What a spring!

2009-05-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

Right... so that blog post about starting again and it's been a month. It has been quite the roller coaster spring... Between the CL layoff, being utterly astonished someone (in a negative way) and my grandmother passing away... I was drawn away. But things are finally coming together.

This time was also good, as I was able to reconnect with a lot of wonderful friends and family. Travel a lot. Weigh opportunities or directions to take my career. And in the end I found a new job. So... even through it all... out came a lot of good things.

HOWEVER... that is my excuse for not blogging for awhile after my announced return.

Hello Blog.

2009-04-13T19:22:00.000-07:00

I'm back in a blogging place. I have some more time. And figuring out what thoughts are ready to share with the world (or at least 3 friends).

So, it's been awhile. But here is my blogging declaration.

Hello Blog. I've missed you.

More coming...

2008-07-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

Some of my loyal readers (LMFH) have requested me to blog more... so, here we go.

Though from a friend and I didn't find it myself, this is maybe one of my favorite spots out there right now.

Made my DAY!

2008-05-16T14:40:00.000-07:00

So... I have a walking problem sometimes. I have permabruises, run into things... but the worst is with coffee. It splashes EVERYWHERE. Clothes, friends, me... you name it.

Today, I got my latte at Starbucks, and saw some cute little stir sticks by where you pick up your drink. However, the Barista told me - they weren't stir sticks at all. The are plugs! FOR YOUR COFFEE! No longer do we need to slosh all over while walking, talking and being slightly overly animated while telling a story or proving a point. You simply put this well branded little stick into the drinking hole and you are GOOD TO GO.

THANK YOU STARBUCKS. My lack of stain removal abilities greatly thank you.

it's been a BLOG time.

2008-05-09T19:28:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure my blog misses me. I haven't posted in nearly a month... and it's a been a crazy month.

Here's a few highlights...
LA for Dark Custom print shoot:
- Staying right of the Santa Monica pier sure didn't suck... View was amazing. While running on the beach one day, I noticed a camera bag and small group guys. In effort avoid the group, I went out of my way to run around them... then, all of the sudden out of nowhere - one of the guys flails out of the group nearly taking me down... It was Gary Busey.
- Our first day of shooting was outside of the glamorous LA prison in downtown. While we were in between shots, or waiting, we headed next store to the beauty supply store. If you ever wondered where nail salons get vats of lotion or whatever ... that the place. You can by giant, and I mean giant, jars of lotion for just $7.
- Driving to the desert is fun. However, listening to soft rock for hours on end, is not.
- Koi ponds are lovely... as is consuming excess of wine by them.

Moving:
- Snowing the last weekend of April is not cool, especially while moving. Gross.
- My friends are great - very helpful. Thanks dudes... even if you were there for the beer and pizza. Oh - and Ange, I'll still call you when I can't find stuff in the kitchen.

LA - Revolver shoot:
- Even punk bands live in suburbs on culdesac's.

Seattle:
- Top Pot Donuts. They're great.
- The Pink Door is one of my forever favorite places.
- Hiking is great. Hiking with pounders, even better.

Interrogation

2008-04-09T20:46:00.001-07:00

I think in another life, Job may have been either in the Mafia or a police officer. He has a way of thinking of issues and asking questions like no other from ever side of a problem. Thing is great for an account person... great trait and skill. However, in the thick of it... it often felt more like I was on trial. Not only do I (sometimes) think through things ... However, I'm not only prepared for any type of arrest that I may have... Nope. I also learned that I have yet another OCD trait. I have a tendency to highlight everything on my screen repetitively... just highlight and unhighlight, and rehighlight...

Things overheard...

2008-04-09T11:49:00.001-07:00

"Man, this smells like rubber".
- Laurie, referring to the snake around her neck, trying to be used as a noose.

Eat your nuts

2008-04-09T08:06:00.000-07:00

In part two of the reasons that I'll miss Job...
He cared so much for my health and my protein intake, that on a routine basis he provided us with almonds to ensure that our energy levels were always high and bellies full. Granted, the method of delivery was usually more of a launch and duck (as he would hurl them across the walkway), however we know that he was just doing out of concern for our health.

He's left the building...

2008-04-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

So. My boss's last day was on Friday. It's been really weird, because I haven't known CL at all without him. I know it's just how it goes sometimes, but still... it's weird.

In his honor, I've decided to every day this week post a reason I'm going to miss him. To keep things anonymous, I'll call him Job. I just hope I can come up with 5 reasons.

I'll miss Job, Reason 1:
Happy hour games(though I know this will still happen). Porno-dial, would you rather, and overall just thought starting questions to make everyone at the table uncomfortable.

I need to invest!

2008-04-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

I am having some major issues today... my banana was extremely bruised. And could not be consumed because of it. And... I NEED MY POTASSIUM!

So, I think I need to buy this:

Don't get all perverted... it's a BANANA GUARD!
http://www.bananaguard.com/

I'm SO READY!

2008-03-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

FOR SOFTBALL SEASON....

Overheard

2008-03-20T06:57:00.000-07:00

So... I am going to straight up copy Matt here. There's some random funny things that I over hear.

Yesterday's favorite:
"Joe, I left an email on your chair for you to read."
- Tom Costello, not realizing that he could have just emailed it to Joe for him to read, he instead printed it for Joe to mark up and get to him, before he would send it to the client.

It's been a blog time.

2008-03-16T21:13:00.000-07:00

So... life has been crazy. Work is crazy busy and changing everyday. However, in the end, I think we'll have some pretty awesome creative output. I sometimes get taken back and amazed at the various ways people around me think. The approach to the same problem has so many options, it's interesting. I usually jump to a very tactical approach to things, or a 'whats the most direct approach to the end'. However - that's not always the right way. It's a problem I have. I need to sometimes take a step back and think out of a tactical box and in more of a whats right box. Some of these problems as of late have caused *fun* conversations between friends. However, we're all in it together at the end of the day and I know we'll all get through it.

This picture/shirt has been my work mood/attitude lately. Though, some may get annoyed or bugged by the way I figure stuff out. I hope to own this shirt soon. I absolutely love it.

symbolism: believe or bull?

2008-02-28T22:12:00.000-08:00

I'll be the first to tell you, sometimes, I have crazy stuff happen to me, or around me. Both work and personal, I have some of the most random things happen. Sometimes said to me/about me, sometimes circumstantial, historical stories, or current random people I meet. However... the question I struggle with is how much do you listen to things. Do you read into the moments or not? Do you notice and keep moving? At some point - do you listen more? What are the rules for symbolism?

Judgey? Maybe.

2008-02-27T07:17:00.000-08:00

It wasn't until recently that somebody pointed out the their observation of the high number of douchebags (DB) at my gym. We're talking straight up over the top metro frat boys. (sorry to anyone that fits this, but lets be honest with ourselves here). Maybe it's the 'trendy' uptown location, but, it's filled with quasi or full fledge DB's.

In recent outings to the gym, I'm decided to start assigning nicknames to them as a way of passing the time. I often see the same ones.

Ace And Gary, the ambiguously gay duo.
I swear, these two have NO other life than each other and the gym. They only ever do free weights, and then between reps or muscles take a leisurely walk around the track together. OH - and the do a lot of fist bumps and say "BRO" a lot.

Change Your Shirt cute boy.
There is a relatively cute boy, with all sort of muscles. I see him a lot as well. However, he's always ALWAYS wearing the same shirt, shirts and backwards hat. Yes, admittedly I wear the same clothes often, but mix it up and wash them. Often, I wonder if he washes his clothes EVER. AND - he also doesn't wear pants outside - even when it's F'ING cold.

TREX.
I don't mean to be rude, but there is a running dude, with really short arms. I think the way he runs also doesn't help.

Heavy foot man.
There is a guy that runs around the track with the HEAVIEST foot slaps. It annoys me more than he'll ever know. No one's feet hitting the ground should ever make that much noise. Not even a 12 year old boy with size 13 feet, and the smack the ground that hard because it's the heaviest part of their body.

Oscars and Me

2008-02-24T20:48:00.000-08:00

So, tonight were the Oscars. And, contrary to what I had planned, (since I'm sick as a dog - which, why do we call it sick as a dog?) I stayed home in my germ pool of myself.
I must warn you, I'm not a huge Oscar buff, but like 'em. I admittedly only saw Juno as far as the top movies - however, would like to see more of them. However, tonight, for the first time in my life, I felt like I too was a part of the Oscars in a tiny TINY way.

First, John McLaughlin (who sang the last Enchanted song) sang at CL not long ago. All the girls ooh and ahhed cuz he's super dreamy, and I have an autographed copy of his CD.

Second (and the weakest), the Cohen brothers called out the Minneapolis St Paul airport. I'm there all the time! HEY! Me = Cohen brothers (told you it was weak).

Third (and best), Diablo Cody. Prior to Juno, she wrote a book about stripping called Candy Girl. The book partially takes place while she worked at an 'ad agency' - Fallon. Though, I've never read the book, nor did I work with her while I was there, I still have a connection. There is a chapter in the book (4 I believe), about how she was working one night and two guys from the agency she was working at came into the strip club... She called them IT guy #1 and IT guy #2. They talked a bit that night at the club (Sheik's for those who know the strip scene). Then, when seeing her at work would get awkward. IT guy #2 also developed a crush on her and would get fidgety and ... as she says, I believe... asked her out. Well... IT guy #2 is Wade, my ex-boyfriend.

So, there you have it... my three ties to the Oscars this year. Some stronger than others, but hey - seemed impressive to me in my basement germ pool - but it also might be the Tylenol PM talking.

NSA does not mean Nice, Single Adult

2008-02-22T10:52:00.000-08:00

SO... I don't know if I'm the receiving end of a great prank (which, frankly... I would TOTALLY do this) or an accident and someone is out in the world distraught.

I never use gmail other than for my blog, my google reader and gchat. Never. Most people don't even know I have it. I don't even know I have it. So, yesterday, when I went and saw I had 20 unread messages I was slightly confused.

As I started clicking through them, I was getting personal propositions from dudes. So, I've pieced this together. Someone put a personal ad on craigslist (where, I still can't figure out - boston/nyc/phoenix/san diego have all popped up) letting the world know that I'm looking for an NSA and in town for just a few days. Joe had to tell me what an NSA was. Yes, this means, No String Attached... which became evident by one of the emails saying "I promise to never call you... you never need to call me". I've also gotten a slew of pictures. Including some that made me throw up in my mouth a bit. I've also am pretty sure this is not actually me (meaning a prank), mainly cuz they reference dark skin. And lets be honest, this Norskie does not have dark skin.

So, I've been scouring the internet for 'my' ad and am now disturbed.

However... all this is a larger question. Sure, we all know about match.com and that sort of online dating - but, craigslist? Really? It's like reading the back of city pages, which frankly is sometimes my favorite part.

Here's some highlights:
hey whats up
im down with some nsa fun. havent had that in a while. i definetly wont call you if you dont want to b called so dont worry about that. im 32 5 ft 11 200 lbs and an average body.

c ya
tim

Im Bronco. I am a 33 yo in the S.D. area. I will start out by saying I am looking for the adsact same thing you are. I am only looking for NSA. I will not call you after and would like the same in return. I will completely respect your privacy. I am a clean, respectful, fun, easy going guy. I am about 6'3', athletic, muscular, and I will be honest and say on the chubby side.. not huge or anything. I am heavier then my norm but still easy on the eyes. I am hoping that tonight this nice guy will not get passed up. I am a truely nice guy but not a push over. I am looking for good company and a good time. I can show you a good time. From what I can see in your pic. you are gorgeous....slim, petite and dark hair. Very sexy.

P.S. Please don't let my age be a deturent. I have a clean young face and most people mistake me for 25-27... Just wanted to mention that incase it is an issue for you.

I NEED SUN. I NEED WARMTH.

2008-02-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

I NEED SUMMER.

grumpasoris

2008-02-15T15:42:00.000-08:00

So, I've been grumpy... and said "GRUMPASORIS REX!" a lot. Here is a picture of one.

NOTE: this is VERY different than a megasorass.

Early Morning Flights.

2008-02-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

I hate them. I hate them with a passion. I would much rather spend a night in a hotel the night before and not have to wake up at 4 or 5 in the morning. I don't sleep the night before because I wake up every hour thinking I might oversleep - then, by the time I actually have to be 'on', I'm pooped. I also get sick to my stomach when I have to wake up like that... I don't understand, but I am all weirded out all day. I don't get it.

And for the record, I was spot on - almost a future teller. This week has kind of sucked in a lot of ways. People at work are dropping like flies. I think my floor is nearing 1/2 capacity, and we started a year ago at full!

Sigh.

2008-02-11T20:29:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have a feeling like its going to be a rough day? A really bad week? Today, I woke up with this very feeling. Like I just knew exactly what was in store... and the great news is that it's Monday and totally living up to it! Sweet! I'm hoping it will turn a corner... I'm making myself have the attitude that it will. Things have to.

However, this positive attitude is hard as I'm in a total winter funk. I'm 100% ready for it all to be over and bring on spring, patio season, all of it. This is most evident by my already planning things for June and July... I NEVER plan that far in advance. I'm just so over freezing my arse off.

There you have it.

skyways: i miss you.

2008-02-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

Overall, I like our new CL space. It's nice, cool digs. However... I miss the skyway. I really miss it. Today I had to run to an appointment and walk through some of the old stopping ground, more from my Fallon days that old CL. I was seriously reminded how much I miss it.

First, I was the only schmuck walking around with a coat on. Damn you people and your lack of need to wear a jacket.

Second, shopping is super easy. I remember when running to Target didn't require training at the gym for weeks at a time. Now it seems like eons away. However, this is probably good for my financial state.

Third, the lunch options are endless. I know, we're not that far away - but feels like it. Macy's I miss you.

Forth, and likely my favorite, people watching. I miss being reminded that there are other people than advertising people. Working on ad block, I feel like that's all I see. If you go to any of the lunch spots over here - you'll run into design, edit, trend research, or other agency cronies.

So, skyways, here's to you. I miss you. May I walk your halls again soon.

Chocolate Covered Banana's

2008-02-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

So... I have a small obsession. CHOCOLATE COVERED FROZEN BANANAS. If you haven't had one yet... you should they're amazing. They're in your local frozen food section called "Diana's Banana Babies". I recommend the dark chocolate. THEY'RE GREAT!

Desk Decorations

2008-01-30T09:42:00.001-08:00

So, I have a few fun desk decorations - nothing too exciting (i.e. a humping dog, fireplace, christmas noose, or crafts) - however, some of it is fun.
A few highlights:
- A doll from Amsterdam... maybe the ugliest, lamest doll ever - but it's eye's open and close. (It's from the Gowlands and we play a 'who can get you the lamest present while traveling'.)
- A seashell from Ginn Hammock Beach
- Claire's old wall of fame photo - though she sits right next to me.
- The cover of Men's Heath with John Kransinski
- Photos of my nephews
- A photo of red and white flowers from Cloud

AND, since there have been requests for it... This really strange and really creepy photo also from Cloud.

Power to the women

2008-01-28T21:04:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been listening to a lot of women, quasi-depressing, quasi-empowering. I think it's been messing with my mental state a bit. Not necessarily in a bad way - just much more reflective. It is amazing how much mood and music go together (at least for me). When in the dumps there's nothing better than some 'college moaner groaner music' to comfort you - it's like a big hug and a proclamation of your feelings (yes, that's a quote from Clueless), or when in a great mood the right jive only enhances your mood and keeps you going.

Anyway, some of these have been around and my fav's for awhile... some are new. Most of you know, but I thought I'd share my top list for now:
Kate Nash
Sia
Ingrid Michaelson
Kate Havrnevik
Cat Power
Feist
Lily Allen

Power to the sassy women!

Britta 'Graceful' Larson

2008-01-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

Let's be honest. I'm not the most graceful of people. I often roll my ankle from stepping wrong or trip on the lines on the ground (you know, the lines in concrete or tile lines). However, it's often slightly more noticeable or dramatic because I'm tall. Because it is such an aspect of my life, I have just begun to embrace when it happens. You know, oh well. I'm comfortable enough with myself to be able to laugh at myself.

There are two instances specifically as of late that have been slightly embarrassing/entertain...

Story one.
A few weeks ago, I was really excited to go to happy hour with my friends LMFH and MP. MP and I were walking over to LMFH's desk, at which point, I decided to greet her with a big excited double arms in the air, small toe-raise/jump 'hello'. However, as I came back down from this... I stepped on a small carpet ledge (it's embarrassingly small), and did not only stumble a bit... No. I bit it. Completely, all the way to the ground. There was absolutely no graceful recovery. The best part is that LMFH didn't really see what happened as it was behind the frosted plastic desk walls we have.

Story two.
I've been going with some of my friends to Bodyflow on a regular basis. It's amazing. A mix between tai chi, pilates, and yoga. The classes have been packed lately due to the January resolution crowd (admittedly I'm in that as well). This past week, class was packed. The largest class I've seen. We were doing a few new yoga positions with one specifically that's a bit more difficult called the 'crane' (pictured). While I had gotten in the pose, as we were holding it... I slowly began to tip. Tip straight onto landing on my head. I thankfully caught myself right before crashing... however not without causing everyone in the room to turn, look, chuckle and the teacher to comment on "well... at least your head was turned the right way to fall". Great. Thanks! At least I wouldn't have killed myself or broken my neck.

So there you have it... my latest bouts with grace, or my lack there of.

For Laurie and Tara

2008-01-25T10:57:00.000-08:00

POKEY STICKS

CARS

2008-01-24T20:36:00.001-08:00

OK. I have had a bad car week. I already blogged about the cold as H flat tire last weekend (see below). However... last night after leaving a perfectly lovely bodyflow class (GOD I LOVE BODYFLOW), my roommate's car wouldn't start. No, not wouldn't turn over. The wheel wouldn't unlock or start. The key wouldn't turn period. We were in the car for 30 minutes trying EVERYTHING (yeah, we know you need to crank the wheel hard. we even tried rocking the car out). Thankfully, wonderful Angie picked us up and drive us.

Right, that was yesterday. Today, after a free beer at Harvey's, I was going to give Ryan a ride to try her car again... OH right. However... I couldn't. Why? MY OTHER front tire went flat. However, since I already had my spare on, I couldn't change it. I had to call VW roadside assistance and then get towed to the dealership. That brings us to now. Here I am... waiting for my front two tires and a new rim. Hopefully I can go home soon. And actually drive.

UGH!

PUPPIES

2008-01-24T20:27:00.000-08:00

So, most of have you have seen this, but I LOVE this. It made my cry a bit and miss my Izzard... but still makes me so unbelievably happy.

http://www.linein.org/media/screenclean.swf

ENJOY!

Poll: Tonight...

2008-01-24T11:23:00.001-08:00

Gym or Happy Hour?

It's the debate I struggle with daily. But... what about tonight?

bloggy blog blog

2008-01-24T10:56:00.000-08:00

So... I haven't posted in a few days. I haven't really had that much time ... and have blog thoughts at random times, but then forget them when I have a chance to blog.

Here is a slightly random thought for you all...
I haven't been able to get my mind off of this great bottle of wine and mussels I had last night (oh, great conversation too! :). The wine was really peppery and amazing on a cold cold night. The mussels had an amazing broth to soak up and just the right amount of kick.

***THANK YOU LMFH for the correction. I obviously was working my muscles at the gym prior to eating mussels.

Daily thoughts, of today

2008-01-21T20:41:00.000-08:00

1) As the temperature drops, my use of profanity dramatically increases

2) I'd like to be 5 again, because there's nap time at school

3) Being 5 is also fun... because I ate like a 5 year old for dinner with Kirsten, Reed and Scott. Mac and Cheese, hot dogs and peas - LOVE IT.

4) Some people in the world are crazy...

5) I'm not a big meat eater.

6) I'm a trusting person and sometimes that can burn ya!

7) Creating a document that details 'this is why I'm hot' is useful in all sorts of occasions.

Greatest Show of all time

2008-01-21T20:28:00.000-08:00

um, burr.

2008-01-20T20:39:00.000-08:00

Right. It's cold here. Meaning, don't smile outside or your teeth with freeze cold, and then you'll have to go through painful teeth thawing process. Nose hair icicle cold. But mainly, don't f-ing leave the house cold.

However, since I don't listen to my own good advice, I did leave the house. All weekend. I wasn't home at all. Stupid.

While it was overall decent, the low point of the weekend happened to fall as we hit the low temperature point as well. 1 AM on Sunday morning. Post an evening of not one, but two Guitar Hero parties, Laurie and I were freezing our asses off driving home. I initially thought my car was just pissed of at me because of the weather (note, the temperature gage read -18). Nope. Turns out, my car was more pissed at me then I thought. It had a flat tire. Yes, a flat tire at 1 am on the coldest night of the year. Right. Awesome. While I have taken part in the 'change a tire' process before... I've never done it fully on my own, nor had Laurie. And, while, I'm sure we could have totally done it - experimenting with it at 1 am when it was -18 doesn't seem like the ideal practice time. Thank god, some amazing Samaritan helped me out. He and I stood outside for 45 minutes changing the stupid tire. I think I'm still slightly cold from the entire experience.

Anyway... there you have it. My bitter cold, story. May good karma and juju be sent to my new tire changing friend.

hmph.

2008-01-16T21:44:00.000-08:00

Someday's... i feel like this kid.

And when that happens, I try to remind myself at least I didn't get punched in the face (again). But, it doesn't always work that well, and I still just want to say "HMPH". (yes... probably in my squeeky voice... but my bangs will be properly in place).

ugh.

2008-01-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

Today... work has totally gotten in the way of my blogging. I have not good videos. No smart comments. Just a relatively stressful day, with the highlight being tomato soup and grilled cheese from the basement deli.

sucking.

2008-01-15T21:51:00.000-08:00

So, this is more of an observation than anything else... however... Isn't it funny how we always hope things don't suck? Through the halls of CL lately, I've heard 'lets just hope they don't make it suck'. Which is similar my ladies dating lives 'lets just hope he doesn't suck'. Or a movie... 'lets hope it doesn't suck'. Funny, at the root of all, we just hope things don't suck... oh, how very optimistic we are. I wonder if it's the result of too many disappointed 5th birthday parties that 'sucked', bad dates that we were really anticipating and he/she 'sucked', or an ever hyped holiday (i.e. halloween or nye) that 'sucked'.

For Tara and Lauren

2008-01-15T21:50:00.000-08:00

Things that always make me happy.

2008-01-15T07:06:00.000-08:00

Peace out '07

2008-01-14T20:48:00.000-08:00

Ok... so, I'm a bad blogger. My posts are few and far between. However, it's one of my new years resolutions to be a better blogger... so here I am. Blogging. However, as a note, that since my last post, I have started many a blog only to be recklessly abandoned for something more instantly gratifying (like facebook or beer).

For this initial '08 post, I thought I would do a bit of a tribute to those who had a big impact on my life in '07. Those that know me best (or, lets be honest, at all - I was slightly combustable for awhile), know it was not my year (an admitted low points were living out of my car for 2.5 months, finding a new home for Iz, OR, my favorite now, finding out that my ex-boyfriend's ex-brother-in-law sold all of my stuff in a garage sale... all are laughable now). However, that doesn't mean that it didn't have a LOT of highlights. I ended the year smiling, with a slew of great stories, and an amazing core support group.

So, here's my top 5 of '07:

5. A groovy job
First and foremost, it's important to note that I don't always feel my job is that groovy in the heat of the moment. However, in my reflective mood, it's pretty good. I get to work with some of the most intelligent and fun people around, on cool, smart work in a great atmosphere. Sure, the atmosphere goes up and down and also struggled a lot in '07 - but, at the root, the people I work with are amazing. Whether I work with them daily, or just know them from 'around', I've learned a lot and had a lot of fun. There's some kick ass and smart people around the CL building.

4. Travel, travel, travel.
I didn't realize until now how much I traveled last year until now... and did some pretty cool trips.
Der Schweitz: I went on one of my dad's business trips with him to Zurich. I got to do some of my own exploring, hiking, and hang out with my friend that moved there.
NYC: Though it may have been closure on a relationship, it was an awesome trip. Ate at amazing restaurant, saw cool stuff and relocated friends, Ricky Gervais (um, duh!), and... well, hell, stayed at Pat Fallon's pimp condo in SoHo. Let's say, it didn't suck.
Florida: Though for work, it helps when you stay at a 5 star resort. Some of the best food, most laughs and best bonding happened at Ginn Resorts this summer. Maybe we did have it right, you can form closer/deeper bonds through their resorts. Through it... I've developed two of my closest friendships. Huh. We're good advertisers.
The Lake: Hitting up Zorbas, DL and Battle Lake many a time provided a lot of summer entertainment. Unfortunately, a number of the stories are not blog appropriate. But lets just say, playing fetch, burning tables, damp towels and Zorbarita's were all key highlights.
Iowa: I learned on this trip that there is never too much 'Don't Stop Believin' (though Dave may disagree). The trip is fully detailed below, but... I learned that it's not crazy to sleep in a car if you're tired. It's totally normal.

3. Good food.
Ok, I love good food, lets be honest. Some of the highlights were...
eating at Danube in NYC (a David Bouley restaurant)
having a 8 (literally 8) course dinner at Ginn Reunion (we were friends with the Chef, oh the beautiful Chef)
all sorts of JP's Calamari, Rustic Pizza and Gnocchi
wings at the country bar, there's just something about 'em
discovering Pokey Stix - who knew?
Zorba's mexican pizza... nothings like it
developing a small addiction/obsession with hummus.
the joys of the breakfast burrito (BLB's is AMAZING... best hang over fosheezy)
pepper pizza at Luce
... I have to stop, because I'm getting hungry.

2. Becoming the spontaneous, active person I used to be
So, I wasn't maybe an 'inactive' being... but just not as outgoing or adventuresome as I had always been. I had one too many weekends watching entire seasons of TV early in the year for my liking. I'm just back in my element... my favorites of the year? (since i'm listing it all out)
Running again, CL sports (softball/football/happy hour), hiking, re-discovering my mad dance skills that were only brought out on special occasions... can now be featured anywhere... even the random sidewalks over lunch (note, usually, there's one key move), dining or hanging out with friends. Overall... just being busy. I love it.

1. Amazing friends
If there is one thing that '07 was about, it was friendships and relying on my core support system. I couldn't have gotten through it with out it emotionally or physically (or, at least without sleeping in my car). First, I made amazing new friends. It's crazy to think that last year at this time, I barely knew, or didn't even know period, some of my closest friends. These friends made my year what it was. So many fun, crazy stories... but more such an important part of me. Each one has touched my life in a different way, and in many instances become a 'life coach'. Second, I was able to reconnect with a slew friends and family that for various reasons had drifted. There is something so comforting about those friends and family members that know you so well (ok, it's a curse too sometimes, but also pretty cool). Friends that are basically sisters, cousins that can pick up right where you left off, family that is basically family (I'm not actually related to everyone I consider in my 'family'), and family that is family - you know the ones that there's no way to get rid of. All of these relationships that you put the most strain on and can have the most issues with, are ohttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.photo.gif
Add Imageften those that are the most rewarding. This year, I was able to re-discover so many relationships. Also, this year, I was able to reconnect with a bunch of college and high school friends that I'd lost touch with... I know it's weird, but thanks facebook.

Well... there you have it. My '07. I have spent much to long on this post and need some sleep. Oh... and also, all of you blog lovers, they won't always be this sappy or this long.

Cheers to '08!

Iowa.

2007-11-11T20:12:00.000-08:00

Well... This past weekend, I crossed the southern MN border into Iowa for the first time. Ever. While I have a number of friends from Iowa, or that went to school in Iowa, I have never made it. Many people were shocked by this. Don't be. I'm from North Dakota. Iowa is far away.. and there aren't a lot of draws (like mountains, faces in rocks, dells - or whatever other things neighboring states offer). I'd never been because it's a long fricken way from North Dakota. My concensus? I'll return. My trip was awesome. Great company, great car rides (obviously involving singing journey at the top of our lungs), great tailgating (weird, also involving singing journey at the top of our lungs), a great (windy) football game, great beer, great food, and did I say, great company?

However, through the entire experience I noticed that Iowa isn't all that different from North Dakota.
- It's flat. Really flat, much like eastern NoDak, we're I'm from.
- It's windy... because it's flat.
- Fans are ... umm ... passionate? Much like how Bison fans cheer "Sioux Suck" no matter who they're playing, the Iowa fans do the same. ISU sucks. I can only assume that Cyclones fans are similar. I hope it's more original than "NDSU'CK". (I went to Concordia - don't take part in the state rivalry)
- Pokey stix are really good. As Laurie would describe, they are really amazing cheese bread with special spices that you dip in ranch and marinara. They're something kinda special about them. The slight cult like pizza following of Gumby's and Pokey Stix reminds me of Pizza Corner... a NoDak sensation.

However... not all is the same. No siree. Iowa has something on NoDak... YOU CAN BUY BOONES FARM IN THE GAS STATION. I mean seriously, NoDak you're missing out on this. Boones and Beer (not 3-2 beer even). It's a magical place. Obviously, my Iowa souvenir are two bottles of Boones from the Kum and Go (oh, and a really sweet cold from the wind).

So, overall Iowa. You're a good state... Keep it up.

Goat Cheese.

2007-11-09T14:36:00.000-08:00

This is just a quick note to state my love of goat cheese. You can do anything with it. Put it on sandwich, a salad, cook with it, eat it plain, put honey on it... it's amazing.

That's all you get for now. A small love for goat cheese.

Figuring it out.

2007-11-08T21:32:00.000-08:00

So, obviously, I'm not very good at this blogging thing yet... it's mainly because I've struggled with what to write about. So many of my daily toils or the 'good' stories are things I don't necessarily want to broadcast. (Yes, yes... even though, get a drink in me and I'll tell all of my personal stories - funny, I can keep secrets, unless they're my own - DAMN ME. I couldn't even fake put a 'name' for some of the good ones - because you all know them anyway.) However, I still want to join this blogger world - I've decided I will write about a few things - overall life experiences (meh, sounds good) and food. The first being a bit more general - more, my take on the world. The second, being what I know and love. Some call me a foodie - others, say I'm defintely not. Maybe I'm a wanna-be... all I know is that I like good food, and heck - even bad food.

Since this evening, I'm not feeling so life wise, I thought I'd dive into food. Recently - I haven't been able to experience or eat the good food I love (RE: life experience summer 2007 and the budget constraits/lifestyle change following). However, this does not mean that I don't miss it... think about it... and try to recreate it. My food blogs (in theory) will be a way to critic food - and provide you with some of my favorite spots/current craves.

I recently had business trip to LA. That means two things - new city and expensible food. Both great things. I ended up eating at this great italian restuarant by Venice Beach two times (don't ask). Here, I experienced bread nirvana - the best bread balls. These little 3 bite white flour goodness balls dipped in butter, garlic, basil and salt. You may have bad breath afterward - however 100% worth it. (Who said the white flour had no value!) I must add... the honor system/serve yourself Chianti - also lovely.

Pinkberry. I've heard/read a lot about this CA phenomona. I'm still not sure how I feel or agree. Knowing it's a form of frozen goodness - I thought I needed to at least try it. So, my great tour guide Amy and I did. It was ... meh ... ok. Don't get me wrong - I'm usually the first in line for non-dairy frozen treats (move over ice cream, sorbet is in the house). However - there was a strange aftertaste with Pinkberry. It tasted much more clutured than regular frozen yogurt - and left a weird taste. While, I'll likely try it again - it's not necessarily something I'll be flying to LA for (or, wanting to... like the bread balls).

Finally, wine. I once again was able to have my FAVORITE wine. It was a great little (LOUD) restaurant in Santa Monica, or Venice, or Marina Del Ray (I have no idea... I think off Abbott Kinney, or whatever). It was good food, however... They had Cloudy Bay. This is the wine that taught me my love of Savigoun Blanc, and more specifically - to be a New Zealand wine snob (or, just always request that!). Cloudy has an amazing grapefruit/citris base, with the perfect amount of body and boldness. It once again, made me a believer.

So there you have my latest food critics, and to end, my most recent food craves:
- Chipati's in Northfield. I could really go for some more of their Garlic Naan and Chicken Korma
- JP's calimari, rustic pizza and gnocchi. Those that know me well, know this is my #1. I was realizing this evening it's been WAY too long since I was there.
- Zorbaz mexican pizza. I miss summer. This is the summer must have.
- BLB Breakfast Burrito. This, I've determined, is amazing and better than French Meadow's. It's the perfect hang over (slight or major) food ever.
- My own BLT's... something so basic and good. Now I just need a good tomato.

Giving it a try

2007-10-01T19:11:00.001-07:00

Here I go... starting a blog of sorts. This will likely be read only by me, and if I'm lucky my best friend and my mom. But hey, I too want to join the blogging world... way late.