Musings From an Idiot

Gift Ideas - Christmas 2011 - Revised 12/11

2011-10-23T18:15:00.007-04:00

Well, it's that time of year where I'm asked what do I want for Christmas. To provide one place for my wishlist:

Energizer AA recharable batteries (8 of them). I have a high speed charger that I can use for them. The other batteries were stolen on a recent trip.

One or two SD cards to replace the ones that were stolen on a recent trip.

A Bacon Wave that will allow us to cook bacon in the microwave.

A six pack box of Eggies that will allow us to make hardboiled eggs without having to take shell off!

Two Benchmark Map books for possible trips including

California, or
New Mexico

A calendar with a sense of humor, like

An audiobook from iTunes to be released in November: The New New Rules by Bill Maher. The iTunes audiobook will allow me to listen to it on my next multi-day scentic drive trip.

A paper book Sign Language: Travels in Unfortunate English From the Readers of The [London] Telegraph

I can always use more and After Shave Balm from L'Occitane

DVDs & Blu-Rays for the Treadmill

My Boys: The Complete Fourth Season (2010) when it comes out.
Californication Season 3
Son of the Beach - Volume 1 a really stupid comedy for those really stressful days at work!
Spartacus: Blood & Sand

Gift Cards from - I think you can find these at Safeway as well

iTunes
Amazon
Southwest Airlines now that my travel schedule has freed up a little.

Gift Ideas (2011 Birthday Version)

2011-08-18T15:57:00.003-04:00

Well, it's that time of year where I'm asked what do I want for my birthday. To provide one place for my wishlist:

Energizer AAA recharable batteries (8 of them). I have a high speed charger that I can use for them. This will help save on batteries for my falling apart radio walkman or a new one.

The new walkman

An audiobook from iTunes to be released in November: The New New Rules by Bill Maher. The iTunes audiobook will allow me to listen to it on my next multi-day scentic drive trip.

I can always use more and After Shave Balm from L'Occitane

DVDs & Blu-Rays for the Treadmill

My Boys: The Complete Fourth Season (2010) when it comes out.
Californication Season 3
Son of the Beach - Volume 1 a really stupid comedy for those really stressful days at work!
Spartacus: Blood & Sand

Speaking of DVDs for the Gym, I could use some nice earbuds. The ones I have currently are falling apart.

Gift Cards from - I think you can find these at Safeway as well

iTunes
Amazon
Southwest Airlines now that my travel schedule has freed up a little.

Travelfood - White Mountains, New Hampshire

2011-08-17T16:18:00.004-04:00

There are many BBQ places in the popular vacation destination of New Hampshire's White Mountains area. I recently visited 2 places.

Hillbilly's BBQ appears to be a new BBQ restaurant in North Conway, NH. It looks like it might be a popular location for dinner and dancing. I ate there at lunch on a Saturday. I'm not a fan of southern BBQ, and the lunch didn't make me change my mind. BBQ is such a taste-thing that I don't want to say too much about the restaurant because it may be good if you like vinegar-based BBQ.

A few miles south in West Ossipee is a place that was better for me, the Yankee Smokehouse.

There is more sugar and tomato in this bbq. The atmosphere hasn't changed in the 10-ish years it's been since I had lunch there last.
On a rainy day, it was a popular place to be - even to sit outside on the covered patio. My fiance and I split a dinner plate with beef and pork where we were fighting for the last scraps it was so good. Highly recommend.

Travelfood - Pittsburg, New Hampshire

2011-08-16T14:02:00.003-04:00

Pittsburg, New Hampshire is the largest town in Northern New Hampshire - about 30 miles from the Canadian border. It is popular with hunters and fisherman. Just north of town, there is a restaurant/hotel combination call the Buck Rub Pub. It is a popular restaurant with a big screen tv, video games, and bar.

The atmosphere is rustic and outdoorsy (note our companion on the wall below). The people are friendly. The food is good for a restaurant that specializes in many kinds of food. The fried chicken and cheeseburger we had was good, but not extraordinary. I hear the pizza is really good, tho. Given the small town, this is a good choice for the family.

For a day of scenic driving, this was a great stop.

Travelfood - Kittery, ME and Portsmouth, NH

2011-08-05T16:29:00.002-04:00

Recently, I was able to go up and have some good eating Near Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Kittery Maine. I mentioned many of these restaurants before. Now for some pictures:
Bob's Clam Hut in Kittery, Maine.

The near dish are the fried clams they are known for. I found the "Lilian's Version" better than the original. Lillian's version had a little more flavor than the original. The far dish is the Lobster Roll which is our favorite.

Later, it was off to Cafe Mediterraneo. Squirrel stayed with the Lobster Ravioli (far dish - which was outstanding as always), but I went outside the box and had a Maryland crab ravioli (near dish). The sauces were really different but complemented each meat well. The Lobster's sauce was thicker but didn't have as much flavor relying on the flavor of the meat. The crab's sauce was thinner, but had a little bit of a sour flavor since crabmeat does not have as much flavor as lobster meat.

As a snack, Squirrel and I ventured to a place I was always curious of: Gilleys. Gilley's is a hot dog restuarant that claims to serve the best hot dogs in Portsmouth. We had chili dogs and they were outstanding. The extra time to cook to order is definitely well worth it. I would go again. Just remember to slide the door to the side. I had to be told this by another customer.

Travelfood - Hines, Oregon

2011-08-04T16:19:00.002-04:00

One way I find good places to eat is to ask the locals. I asked the gas station attendent where a good place to eat was and he recommended the nearby Apple Peddler in Hines, Oregon. It is a general diner that has went through some recent changes in management and from what the attendent said, it was a good change. It was definitely good food. I had the teriyaki chicken which was surprisingly good at a typical diner. The gravy was also really good.

The service was friendly and good and prices were reasonable. They are known now for their desserts. If you are going through town, recommend a stop at the Apple Peddler on your food travels.

Travelfood - Frenchglen, Oregon

2011-08-03T11:08:00.001-04:00

Frenchglen is a little hamlet about 60 miles south of Burns, Oregon near the Malheur Wildlife Refuge. On the main road just before a turnoff to Steens Mountain sits the Historic Frenchglen Hotel - a working hotel in the summer.

For those who want a little isolation as well as peace and quiet, this would be a good place to stay. If you do not have food, no worries as there is a small general store next door (Be sure to check for hours as when I was there it was only open 45 minutes that day) and a family style restaurant that requires reservations.

It is a historical area for the livestock operation of Peter French. More information about this is on the Hotel's website. I only had a cookie for a mid-afternoon snack there, but it was really good and from talking to the manager, the meals have a home cooked feel to them - as well as being family style.

Soulsplitting Thoughts

2011-08-02T04:00:00.001-04:00

On Sunday, I saw the last Harry Potter movie. Until then, I had not seen a Harry Potter movie or read a Harry Potter book. It was a good movie, but because I wasn't as into it as others, I occasionally found myself thinking. I thought about if I had to divide my soul into 7 parts which objects would I use to store each part for my survival? After some thought, here's this list:

A survey form from the survey I worked on recently.

Imnaha Store & Tavern

A lakeside bench at Jubilee Lake

A techno music cd

A Walkman (my tribute to the 80s)

A DVD jewel case for all the DVDs I have/had

A gorillapod since I can't keep track of them to save my soul. I'm on my third or fourth one now.

What might be yours, if you care to reply.

Travelfood - John Day, Oregon

2011-08-01T15:34:00.003-04:00

I had a great breakfast at The Outpost Bar & Grill in John Day, Oregon. The wilderness is definitely the ambiance at this local restaurant. For those without a newspaper, some tableside reading is available full of fun facts (some more topical than others).

I had the Southwestern Skillet which was amazing. The salsa was a really good addition to this dish.

There is even a little giftshop where one could buy crafts or books by local authors. Friendly folk, convenient John Day location, good food, and good reading makes this a recommend if you ever find your way to John Day.

Travelfood - Winnemucca, Nevada

2011-07-29T15:23:00.003-04:00

In Winnemucca, there are two eating options which will make a meal or an overnight stay enjoyable.

The Pig (formerly The Flying Pig) BBQ is right on the main boulevard.

Back in 1994, I visited there and had such good BBQ my friends and I bought shirts, took them back to our college, and fielded a club softball team called The Flying Pigs. Fast forward 17+ years, I return to a new name, but still great BBQ.

There are the traditional BBQ sandwich and dinner dishes. The BBQ sandwich was more than enough for me. The upper and lower bun are buttered enough to make good rolls.

Sweet BBQ sauce made the meal memorable. Good memories and would recommend.

The Griddle's sign says there is good cookin'. The sign does not lie.

It is your typical small town casual sit down restaurant with a variety of options. I had the Quiche Lorraine which seems to be quite popular. At 7:15 in the morning, they had to look to see if there was a slice available. The slice was quite filling for my day of scenic travel. The homemade salsa did not make a good addition to my quiche, but it might for others.

Good service, good local food make this a recommend as well.

Travelfood - Joseph, Oregon

2011-07-25T16:39:00.003-04:00

Last month, while I was in Joseph, Oregon, I had lunch at 8,000 feet at the top of the Wallowa Lake Tram. I was hestitant at first because of other mountain lodge food I've had in the past. I'm glad I became hungry from my hike. It is a little more expensive to eat at the Summit Grill, but it is worth it. This was the view I was able to enjoy (without the ugly one sitting on the bench (which is me):

The chicken ceasar wrap was very good and very plentiful. I was quite full after lunch.

The service was a little slow that day, but given I was on vacation and I had such a great view WHO CARES? It was quite relaxing. I could pass the time by feeding the squirrels (in addition to what they enjoy from other's lunches).

From the looks of them, this happens quite frequently. I wonder what their squirrel doctor says about their weight.

Overall, I would recommend if you find your way up to the top of Mount Howard on such a great day!

Travelfood - Ontario, Oregon

2011-07-08T13:14:00.000-04:00

Look what I found on my travels recently . . . A Sizzler! It is such a nice treat to relive restaurants of the past. Like Arctic Circle, Sizzler is one of those restaurants. There is now a Chipotle where the Sizzler was in my hometown. When I saw the sign off I-84, I knew that's where I was going to get dinner. You walk up to the counter and order. Then you sit down and a server will bring your various courses. For a little over $10, I got a good meal: Salad, Steak, and potato. The restaurant was clean and employees friendly. Good rest stop if something more than fast food is desired.

Travelfood - Boise, Idaho

2011-07-01T08:18:00.003-04:00

While in Boise recently, I had the opportunity to visit 2 excellent hamburger places.

Big Jud's was mentioned on Travel Channel's Man vs Food. They have volume burgers which look huge, but this visit, I enjoyed the Hawaiian Burger.

The burger was excellent as I would expect the burger to be. The hidden treat was the fries. The fries tasted as fresh as fries could be. There was a little seasoning which added to but not dominate the freshness of the fries. The single Hawaiian and fries were enough to satisfy me. The fry sauce was really good too, but the best way I enjoyed the fries were plain. Big Jud's has a good take out business which is good considering the dining area is small for a place with such good food. I had to wait for about 20 minutes for a table at 2:00 in the afternoon. I can only imagine how it is during peak times. Highly recommend.

Arctic Circle Hamburgers is a place I ate on a trip last year. I ate at Arctic Circles in Elko, Nevada and Boise, Idaho.

Arctic Circle is your stereotypical fast food hamburger joint that focuses on two things: Angus burgers and their french fry sauce. The french fry sauce is the main reason I go to Arctic Circle (that and the lime squeezes). The burgers are good and it is something different than McDonald's (better I think).

The chain is in some western States, but I would recommend just to try the fry sauce. For a ketchup lover like me, it is a nice change of pace. Recommend.

Radio Makes You Happier

2011-06-29T09:17:00.001-04:00

I admit, I like listening to the radio. I like listening to both terrestrial and satellite radio at home and at work. Sometimes I like listening to the radio more than I like watching tv. This London Telegraph article mentions that there is research indicating that listening to the radio made people happier and gave people higher energy levels than watching tv or Internet surfing.

In some ways, this makes sense. For me, listening to the radio allows me to multitask. I can look at and do something else while listening to the radio whereas with tv, I have to focus on it. Also with the radio, I can focus more on the personalities and for lack of a better phrase "get to know them" a little bit - in terms of their on air personalities. It makes me feel like they are my "friends" a little bit more since they are reliable (on at the same time time most days) and talk about things I enjoy listening to and may have an feeling about. I can't help but sometimes wonder how things are going and what my on air personalities are up to. I can't help to think this may make people happier and give them more energy to deal with the day. With tv, there's so much emphasis to the visual that a lot of the personality (and perceived friendship) is sacrified, in my opinion.

To me, this helps justify the money I spend on radios and satellite radios - which some may think is excessive.

Travelfood - Washington DC

2011-06-10T10:06:00.001-04:00

Last week, Squirrel and I went to Ben’s Chili Bowl, what some call a DC Food Landmark. It wasn’t nearly as crowded as we thought it would be as it was the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend so it made it ideal for a couple of first timers. For such a small space, they have a well-organized system to get people through. We were fortunate enough to find a seat. We saw on Travel Channel’s Man vs Food that spices play a key part of what makes the chili stand out. That statement is very correct, in my opinion. The spice adds a lot, but not too much heat to make the chili uncomfortable. The fries were prepared just right to complement the chili dog. I normally refrain from eating too much fried foods, but I couldn’t keep my hands off the fries they were that good! It was a great, memorable, start to the long weekend and recommend that if anyone is in the area, to stop on by. Many notables have.

Middle Aged ???

2011-06-02T16:42:00.003-04:00

When I heard a discussion of what is Middle Age in a radio program, I couldn’t help but to think about it as it applied to me I’m approaching 40 and was out of the office sick for a couple weeks a little about 2 months ago. The radio show threw out some ranges like 45-65, 35-50, and others (including one who said it started in the late 20s). According to the Wikipedia definition, Census considers middle age to be 35-50. In which case I’m middle aged. When the year started, I did not consider myself to be middle aged. Overall, I didn’t have aches and pains, could eat and drink as much as I wanted to, and I felt quite young at heart with some of the things I enjoy doing. I have male pattern baldness and started to get some grey hairs in my facial hair, but that was ok, I still felt young.

Then I got really sick which involved a couple hospital visits and a bulk of bedrest. For the next month (which included many medical tests) I noticed a few things. I was probably stressed out from life in general and I couldn’t eat all the spicy food as much as I did nor drink as much as I used to. It was at that point I started noticing those greyer hairs on the top of my head. I felt OLDER. I felt MIDDLE AGED if not older.

While looking for a definition of middle age and found this page with an interesting definition: “. . . middle age is that point in your life when you shift from seeing the future in terms of your potential and begin to see it in terms of your limitations . . .” The author mentions that the process is slow but everyone starts at one end and ends up at another.

I like this definition because it gives me a little bit of a challenge. I need to

stop thinking about whether I am middle aged because that’s thinking of life in terms of limitations,

stop thinking about the fact I shouldn’t eat the spicy foods I did almost 2 months ago. I’ve done really well finding good substitutes and monitoring the spice. Instead of having Cajun seasoning AND Cayenne Pepper, just have the Cajun seasoning is an example.

look at eating smaller portions as eating healthier

think of my new job as a new challenge to expand what I’ve learned in my former, very stressful job while leaving more options to vacation in the winter & spring where I could not before.

continue to be active and thinking young. Also, do young-like activities as well.

So yes, I was sick for about 2 weeks and it made me think of some necessary changes in my life. Yes, I am approaching 40. Now that I’ve made them and am transitioning to it, I need to complete the healing process and get back to thinking young. Not only keep Portland Weird, but keep Gorillaboy weird as well!!!!

Wow! I'm Back!

2011-06-01T08:51:00.003-04:00

Hello again! I have had a lot going on the past couple of months (illness, Squirrel moving back in and the associated cleaning, and new job to name a few). There was an article I heard about on a morning talk show that really shocked me:

Average Man Spends 40k on His Woman Before Marriage.

This figure assumes a "normal" dating/engagement term of just under 4 years. It would not surprise me if I have spent this much on Squirrel in the 6.5 years we've been dating/engaged, but it is quite easy to see where the expenses can add up quickly.

Like I said, WOW!

Commutting in DC

2011-04-01T07:18:00.000-04:00

The big news with me is that Squirrelgirl is about to come home. One facet of coming home she will have to get used to again is commutting. The commutter bus lot has seen a few changes. One of which is the addition of a porta-potty which after a storm looks like it had a rough time.

The other is that the commuter bus rows have gotten narrower. These handles make me have to walk down the row sideways to prevent constantly bumping into them.

Don't say I didn't warn you, Squirrel -

Experimentation

2011-03-31T16:15:00.003-04:00

Last night I tried Tobasco brand Soy Sauce with some sushi. I found the sauce in Portland last fall.

Didn't really taste much different than regular soy sauce. I think the salt really overpowers most any flavoring to the Soy Sauce.

I Will Miss

2011-03-05T13:54:00.002-05:00

This weekend represents the last of the regular season basketball games in the Pacific-10 Conference. With the addition of Colorado and Utah to the conference, I imagine new scheduling will be required.

One thing that really made sense about the conference was it's 18-game basketball scheduling for the season. The 10 schools were paired off (typically by rivalry).

Washington-Washington State

Oregon-Oregon State

California-Stanford

USC-UCLA, and

Arizona-Arizona State

For each weekend (Thursday and Saturday games), one of the 5 pairs would play another of the 5 pairs (one game on Thursday and another on Saturday). For example, this weekend, the Southern California Schools go north to play the Washington schools (Thursday Night: USC@WSU and UCLA@UW; Saturday: USC@UW and UCLA@WSU). This same weekend, the women's basketball teams from Washington went down south to play the women's basketball teams from the Southern California Schools. Only 4 pairs can play in a given weekend. This leaves the 5th pair to play eachother with a night off.

Also, earlier this year, the men's basketball Washington Schools went south to play the Southern California Schools at the same weekend the women's basketball Southern California Schools travelled north to play the women's basketball Washington Schools. To me, this was quite simple. Each team in the conference played eachother twice (once at home and once on the road) to make the 18 game season.

Can the ACC schedule be as simple? In my opinion . . . NOT!

I will miss this scheduling when Colorado and Utah join the conference. It was nice to say that WSU was going to play at the Oregon schools this weekend. The price of expansion? Perhaps. Oh, I wonder if since the conference becomes the Pac-12 next year, will this highly dramatic commercial go away (my favorite part is the eagle)?

Kroll's Diner - Bismarck, North Dakota

2011-02-27T20:34:00.003-05:00

Kroll's Diner is a small chain of casual sit-down restaurants in Minot, Bismarck, Mandan, and Fargo, North Dakota. Their speciality is knoephla soup which is a hearty cream of potato and dumpling soup. They even sell "buckets" of the knoephla. They are also known for their rancher skillet which Food Network Magazine calls the best breakfast in North Dakota.

I enjoyed a bowl of knoephla soup (a picture of the dish appears here)and at around zero degrees fahrenheit it was quite welcome as it warmed up the body. I also tried the Fleischkuechle which is hamburger wrapped in a pastry then deep fried. Here is a picture of the Fleischkuechle dish I enjoyed. The picture is actually from another location, but looks like the dish I devoured in Bismarck. Local eats, good food, and good service - if that is what you are looking for in a restaurant, then if you find yourself near a Kroll's, stop in and enjoy!

Travelfood - Annapolis, MD Again

2011-02-14T15:28:00.003-05:00

It's Valentines Day and I love food, which will be the subject of this post
Before going on a trip, I had a lengthy breakfast at Phillips Seafood at the BWI Airport. I tried the crabmeat omlette with crab sauce and Phillips seasonings mixed with egg and the crabmeat. It was a great way to start a trip of restaurant food. A little pricey, but well worth it compared to the mass produced food at a fast food eatery, in my mind.

I tried the two main cheesesteak places in the Annapolis area. Earlier I tried Jakes Steaks near Annapolis. Recently, I visited Philly Flash which is closer to where I live. My verdict: Philly Flash! While the roll does add something to the cheesesteak, the cleaner Philly Flash steak and fries won me over. Philly Flash also had Old Bay to add to the fries for that distinctive Maryland flavor. Recommend Philly Flash.

Oddities of Cars

2011-02-01T10:36:00.001-05:00

The past week, I heard a couple of stories on the radio regarding cars:

1) Now that cell phone use while driving has been curtailed, now distracted walking is becoming an issue. This article reports that 2 States are considering banning texting as well as wearing earphones while walking. It seems to me that iPods and cell phones are becoming "evil devices" because of the distractions that can occur - even while walking. If Governments prohibit texting and wearing earphones while walking, can chewing gum be next?

2) An MSNBC editor wrote this story about a survey of car owners regarding naming cars. The survey was done by webuyanycar.com. Evidently slightly more than half of respondents name their cars (I am one of them - Cindy Civic). Certain colors were more likely to have a name than others - Cindy's color green was one of the least likely colors of a car whose car received a name.

Signage!

2011-01-24T13:02:00.003-05:00

Here's some recent signage I saw --
Being from Oregon and Nike's influence on athletic appearel at the University of Oregon, I couldn't help but to chuckle when I saw this sign in Maryland:

I saw this sign at a bookstore for a major university last month - warm fuzzies for our educational system:

Wanna see me smile? Let me see a sign like this at a McDonald's like during the McRib promotion.

Weirdness

2011-01-07T10:01:00.001-05:00

Weird things have been occurring lately:

1) When leaving a parking garage in Portland recently, I encountered this on the only exit lane where you pay for parking. I had to sit idling for 10 minutes for someone to let me out. What really made this frustrating was that I was still charged for "parking" in the garage since the the time I punched out was 10 minutes later due to the attendant being gone. Shouldn't my time be compensated?
2) Weather freak out: It's that time of year for drama over winter weather. Today, I saw a new level of drama. There are now what I call "snow scenarios" like the Norlun Trough Scenario in the Weather Channel graphic below. I can just see it now "Oh, no! It's another "Norlun Trough!"
3) I realize there are schedules, but one thing that really annoys me is when there is an open gate or baggage carousel that could be used, but I have to wait for a plane to exit the gate or the bags from a flight that got to the carousel before mine due to this inflexible schedule. I know there's something I missed, but it's annoying nonetheless.

Travelfood - Various Locations in Fall

2011-01-04T08:47:00.004-05:00

Like usual, I'm not starving myself. Three recent food tidbits to report since I've have not been posting recently:

1) I went to what one called the best Hooters which is located in Mechanicsburg, PA. It was at the end of a scenic drive. I will admit, it was better than many of the Hooters I've been to. I can see where that person would think it might be the best: I was there in the late afternoon but I imagine with the employees and the atmosphere, it would be a popular place.
2) I heard through Facebook that Jake's Steaks of Annapolis uses the same rolls as in South Philly. However, the sandwich did not taste the same. It was actually quite disappointing. This is their cheesesteak with American and Cheese Whiz: It just looks and tastes different from South Street Steaks and Pat's King of Steak in Philly.

3) I have a new like: Peanuts seasoned with Old Bay. Someone at work brought a can of Virginia Diner Peanuts seasoned with Old Bay. Highly recommend! I have to focus on not being around this person or I'll keep eating them.

4) Here's something that can either be really good or really bad. Tobasco flavored soy sauce. I LOVE Tobasco. One of my most favorite smells was when I stepped out of the car in Avery Island, LA when I could smell the Tobasco! While there, I tried the Tobasco flavored soda and didn't like it. I've yet to try it, but it looks quite interesting.

2010 Review & Looking Forward to 2011

2011-01-03T08:48:00.002-05:00

I took a quick glance at my "accomplishment report" label and found nothing for 2009's accomplishment report or goals for 2010. In absence of that, here's what I consider my accomplishments for 2010:

I got engaged!

I survived Snowmaggedon!! During that I learned that even cats need alone time. I did not go to the office for a week and as much as Maddie doesn't like it when I leave for work each morning, she also doesn't want me around all the time. How do I know this? The amount of time she spent under the couch.

Walked around Augusta National Golf Club. A dream of over 10 years was finally realized!!

For the first time in a long while, I took more time for me. Whether it would be seeing Squirrel or travelling on my own to Augusta, Maine, or Utah/Nevada, I took more decompress time than ever this year. It really helped as I'm now more relaxed during this upcoming busy time than I was just a couple years ago. I've had less leave available at the end of this year than any year since I've worked in my current location.

In reality, I only have one goal I set for myself every year. Try or go somplace new - in other words, expand my horizons. This year is a little different:

As usual, try or go somplace new - in other words, expand my horizons. Squirrel likes sushi, maybe really try that. Maybe even learn to make it!

Speaking of Squirrel, she and Stormy return for good in just a few months. Must re-acquaint myself to living with a girl and a Sheltie again. More importantly, help a Princess of a cat re-acquaint herself to living with a Sheltie and another girl again. I have a hunch the latter is going to be the tougher task!

Really focus on finances. Not only saving for the upcoming wedding/honeymoon, but more focused saving for retirement. It's not too early to think about it. I've got the starter grey hairs to prove it!

The stereotypical stuff - you know exercise and eat better.

Most importantly, keep my stress level down!!!!!

That's a good set of goals. Enjoy 2011 . . . It ought to be an interesting one!

Portlandia

2010-12-18T13:30:00.005-05:00

I was reading a Willamette Week article from November and there's going to be a tv show about a native east coaster's impression of Portland after living there many years. The IFC channel will show the miniseries Portlandia starting January 21st. I will definitely have to watch. The IFC website has the theme song available to listen and it's pretty good as well.

It's Apple Cup Week . . . In December

2010-12-02T09:06:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite memories of the 2 years I attended WSU was seeing the Palouse area after a fresh snow. Here a pic I found at the Pullman Chamber of Commerce website:

The smooth hills, many without trees, creates a view of the smoothest snow you could see - and a view that is hard to duplicate.

It is supposed to be cold on Saturday, but no snow. Bummer. It has snowed at a previous Apple Cup. This post from a WSU Athletics blog has a video of the 1992 snow-filled Apple Cup.

Go Cougs!

Apple Cup Week!

2010-11-29T08:29:00.003-05:00

It is that time of year (although later than usual due to TV) that the Apple Cup takes place. In case you don't already know my affiliation, I'll let this pic I randomly found online let you know.
Go Cougs on Saturday, 7PM (Here on the East Coast)!

New Foodtruck in DC

2010-11-19T12:42:00.003-05:00

On my back to the office, I saw a new food truck, CapMacDC. It is a pasta truck that sells Macaroni and Cheese. Here's the Twitter feed. Lobster, Cuban Sandwiches, and Mac & Cheese: Which doesn't belong on a food truck?

Happiness & Laughter

2010-11-18T16:10:00.002-05:00

I heard a story on the radio yesterday (and this article) that people are pretty happy at age 18, then not as happy at age 50, then getting happier again after age 50. I guess that's why I feel in the dumps sometimes as I approach 40. I evidently need to get to age 50 quickly.

Almost related with happiness is laughter. There was a study done on 2 main NFL pregame programs on CBS and Fox regarding the amount of laughter during the show. The study was reported here. Of the time they spent together, the Fox NFL Pregame show had 11.6 percent of the time in laughter. CBS' group laughed only 1/3 of the time. I don't know what is more rediculous: A study was done for this or the amount of time chuckling. I guess the Fox folks really enjoy their job.

I Love Tabloids

2010-11-16T16:29:00.003-05:00

Last week, I saw these competing tabloids:

One has Kourtney Kardashian broke up with her long time boyfriend (and baby's father) and onto another romance. The other says that Kourtney eloped with the same longtime boyfriend (and baby's father). Two very different extremes.

My guess? The truth is somewhere in the middle. Then again, these are reality tv stars.

I Wanna Go Here Now

2010-11-10T12:37:00.003-05:00

Remember this post from last year? Well today, MSNBC had an article about the Heart Attack Grill complete with pictures of the uniforms staff wear. The website offers a free meal to those who weigh over 350 pounds.

Me? I would like to go there once - eat part of a burger, have my picture taken at the restaurant, and just say "I ate there".

Gift Ideas (Updated Again)

2010-11-08T13:13:00.001-05:00

For the Holidays, here's the latest version of my gift list:

A diecast model of Horizon Air's WSU plane. Here is a picture of all 4 Northwest shool planes.

Here is a link where the OSU plane can be purchased. I saw UO's and OSU's at the Portland Airport recently. I found a link where the WSU one can be found - see above.

Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 for the laptop.

A book: Oregon's Greatest Natural Disasters.

A book: Oregon Curiosities. There is also a second one too!

The National Parks - America's Best Idea was a series that was on PBS last year. The book and Blu-Ray

Maryland Delaware Atlas & Gazetteer. They are detailed topographic maps that you would find in bookstores. I would like books for Maryland-Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia (scenic drives).

Weekly Newspapers in Oregon (since Daphne will be coming back to MD in 2011 and will no longer be able to get me a copy)

A year or 6-month subscription to Willamette Week

Portland Mercury

Made In Oregon store stuff

Myrtlewood Oregon Cutting Board

A trivet (something ceramic to put hot pans on) with something "Oregon". I saw these at the airport store, but couldn't find it online. Here's a picture I took:

Glass beer boot with an Oregon beer company label or WSU label.

I can always use more 1)Shower Gel and 2)After Shave Balm from L'Occitane (located at Washington Square and Pioneer Place). Just go to the men's shelf. The scents approved by Squirrel and I are: L'Occitan and Bavx (these are the spellings).

DVDs & Blu-Rays

Oregon Splendor DVD.

Idaho an Aerial Tapestry DVD.

Scenic National Parks: The Best of the National Parks [Blu-ray] (2009)

Howard The Duck DVD - It's stupid, but it's funny and light!

True Blood Season 2 Blu-Ray

Ice Road Truckers Season 3 Blu-Ray

The Tudors Season 3

The Tudors - The Final Season.

Weeds Season 5

Californication Season 3

Spartacus: Blood & Sand

My Boys: The Complete Second and Third Seasons (2008)

Girls Next Door Season 5 DVD

Gift Cards from - I think you can find these at Safeway as well

iTunes

Macy's - for some new shirts

Amazon

Burger Tidbits

2010-11-05T16:45:00.002-04:00

I like to eat burgers. I will be eating a few burgers this weekend. You can imagine my curiosity when I saw the headline "One burger equals 30 Oreos?". This article from MSNBC had 5 burgers to avoid with one having the calorie equivilent to 30 Oreo Cookies. Fortunately, the only one I think I've eaten is the T.G.I. Friday’s Jack Daniel’s Burger.

US's Best Airport

2010-11-04T09:01:00.003-04:00

Portland International Airport (PDX) recently received the honor of being the United State's Best Airport, according to Conde Nest Traveller Magazine. This is an honor the airport proudly displays in some of their signs.

Don't get me wrong, it is a nice airport - full of unique amenities outside of the typical newsstand and national chain fast food that occupies most airports. What I find humorous about this sign is the happy family whom I assume is travelling. Maybe they aren't since the photo is taken in the part prior to the security screeners. But they just seem too darn happy for being at an airport - especially if they are travelling. In my travels I haven't seen very many, if any, at an airport. It seems to be more the parents trying to avert meltdowns for the kids and everyone being very exhausted from the experience.

That is just one fella's opinion.

Happy Post Halloween!

2010-11-01T12:35:00.002-04:00

This Halloween brought new signs that I didn't imagine would be necessary.

This one from a convenience store in a rural small town (the pumpkin looks kindof evil):

This one form a fast food restaurant in a big city:

I guess for security reasons, these are necessary now. A sign of the times.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T13:40:00.005-04:00

Or one of two holidays were pumpkins are a main participant. This weekend, I was balancing my checkbook and found the 2 receipts from when I purchased 96 cans of pumpkin for Maddie. As much as the picture of the 96 cans is insane, so is the one showing the length of the receipts from the 2 visits. When laying them down one on top of the other, the resulting length is almost 2 YARDS long!

This weekend Halloween, next weekend Punkin Chunkin, then 3 weeks later Thanksgiving!

A Joke I Heard Today

2010-10-29T08:23:00.002-04:00

I heard a joke told by comic Brad Upton about my home State of Oregon. This joke was told in his Album Smart Guy, Stupid World. He was musing about how Oregon is one of 2 States which allows physician assisted suicide, but is also one of 2 States that a gas station employee must pump gas in your car. He wraps the joke up by saying something like it appears that Oregonians are capable of making a decision on life or death, but not regular or supreme gas.

Being an Oregonian, I found that humorous.

Best Candy for Your Health

2010-10-27T13:15:00.003-04:00

According to this article, my primary snack, Jolly Rancher candies was mentioned as the best trick-or-treat candy for your health. Yay me!

Will The Cougs Win on Saturday?

2010-10-26T16:14:00.003-04:00

On a random note, I've been reading blogs like this and this where this will be the best chance for the WSU Cougars to get a Pac-10 before the Pac-12 emerges. The Cougs have been improving to posting some respectable scores recently and not the blowouts that were constant the previous 2 years.

One problem with this, tho . . . THE GAME IS NOT TELEVISED. The Pac-10 picks now to have their first non-televised game. A game that I imagine is of serious interest to Coug fans. All I can say is major bummer! But then again not because one of two games that weren't televised in my area was the only win of the season thus far.

A Memorable Day

2010-10-21T16:24:00.005-04:00

I haven't quite fallen off the face of the Earth, but close. Let's see, I'm under a heavy period of work, got engaged, then another heavy period of work. Yes, I got engaged to Squirrel. Many who read this already know because of that little "newssite" called Facebook.

Here's the brief version:

While on a trip out west, we stopped to visit some friends in Walla Walla, Washington (and see where I went to college). One day we decided (ok, I decided long ago) that we were going to visit the lake where I went on my first scenic drive back in 1992.

Liking that trip in 1992 led to more scenic drives which led me to consider leaving the Pacific Northwest after school. I took a job in Athens GA, moved to the DC area and met Squirrel. Almost 18 years later, I took Squirrel back to show her how beautiful it was. There was one group of campers and then us to share the 2.5 miles of shore the lake offers.

We found a bench along side the lake where I proposed. and she said yes!
Life is good!

Learn Something New Everyday

2010-10-06T10:54:00.001-04:00

One thing I like to have happen is for me to learn something new everyday. In my view, if I don't feel I need to learn anything new then why live? It is one reason why I like reading alternative weekly papers like Washington DC's City Paper. With all the talk of the recent Democratic Primary for DC Mayor (what many call the ACTUAL election), there was one aspect of DC Government that hasn't gotten much attention: The upcoming House Election and a possible change in party would mean a new chairperson of the Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia Subcommittee of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. The ranking member of this subcommittee seems to view things strictly by The Constitution which could mean drastic changes in how much Congressional involvement in major DC decisions.

This City Paper article is an interesting read about Congressman Jason Chaffetz's desire to chair this subcommittee.

Dangerous Driving Holidays

2010-10-05T13:20:00.002-04:00

When one thinks of the holidays that are the most dangerous to drive, I bet one thinks of the holidays listed here. Of course, with these holidays there likely is more alcohol consumed than typical days of the year which add to it. I didn't think about Halloween until I read the article.

Bottom line is that care should be exercised every day becuase what might not be a holiday for many, might be a holiday to some with the possibility of a little excess celebration.

Nightmare!

2010-09-30T09:03:00.005-04:00

Just like I don't like crowds, I don't like the probability of crowds. To me, a long line at the commuter bus stop only means one thing: CROWDED BUS!
If you click on the picture (taken a few months ago) to enlarge it, you can see the line makes a valley 20 people deep on each side which means there will be a full, crowded bus. In which case, I hope there's no traffic to make the trip longer. Call me spoiled, but I like my space.

Signage

2010-09-28T16:13:00.002-04:00

You know the white line near the driver on a motor coach (bus) that no one was to stand beyond while the bus is in motion? Evidently, it is now a zone.

Food Truck Discussion

2010-09-27T08:38:00.002-04:00

This week's Washington City Paper had a story about Food Trucks and the concern of local businesses about the effects the mobile trucks have on their establishments. Basically, the food trucks use Twitter and Facebook to announce their locations that day. The locations change daily so the trucks cover different parts of DC every day and some nights. This is legal because of a law that allows the food trucks to conduct business if there is a line waiting when they arrive (meant to stop or slow down mobile ice cream vendors).

Personally, I like the Food Trucks and selfishly I would like them to remain. They bring a nice, refreshing lunch option every now and then. There are only so many restaurants in the general walking area of the office building where I work - and they mostly tend to be a sandwich shop, a fast food burger place, or a buffet that doesn't change. It is nice that a food truck comes by with different fare once a week or every other week.

I can also understand the concern of established businesses in the area. They pay high rents, taxes, association fees, etc., to do business at that location. Now, along comes a mobile food truck who only pays the parking meter, pays one-time fee for a permit, takes business away from them that day, and leaves. One food truck I like has mentioned they would like to have a permanent restaurant in DC sometime soon, but I don't know if those thoughts are echoed by the others.

It is a tough topic because I am selfish, but I can definitely see where the established business do not want the negative effects of the food trucks. If I owned a sandwich shop or other fast, permanent restaurant, I would want the food trucks to go away.

BTW: Another benefit of reading this article, I got the Twitter addresses of other food trucks to visit!!!

September is Maddie's Food Month

2010-09-24T08:15:00.002-04:00

Which is the better caption for this picture?

1) I now have enough pumpkin to try and make the area's biggest pumpkin pie,
Mentioned to me by the bagger at the grocery store
2) I now have enough pumpkin to make pumpkin pie for Maddie's Thanksgiving, or
Mentioned to me by Squirrel
3) Maddie is approving her food supply for the next year.
I thought of

The truth is choice 3, this will be part of Maddie's food supply for the year. The previous 2 years, canned pumpkin was only available in the fall. She does not eat the organic canned pumpkin. As a result, now is the time to stock up. Besides, Stormy eats pumpkin too and he is coming back to Maryland in the Spring.

What's more amazing is that this week, I spent $255.37 on a year's supply of food for Maddie Cat. In my defense, it is food that will probably last the year. The canned pumpkin pictured here cost $160. The 90 pounds of dry catfood I purchased on Sunday (and is in the closet already) was $95.37.

Aside for those who see the Scoop Away - those are empty buckets going to Squirrel's Dad. Last year, I bought a 18-month supply of Scoop Away when the company was phasing out the buckets (which are easily reused by the way).

Naptown Happenings

2010-09-23T08:00:00.002-04:00

When going through my cell phone recently, I found a couple pictures taken in the past month that I forgot to mention.

First - Last week I came home, I continued my "getting home" routine by going to get my mail. I walked over, took out my key, and when I attempted to put the key in the lock, found NO MAILBOX.
I was told to call the Post Office and the Post Office said they "took the mailbox out of service". No notice was given to anyone in the building. The Post Office has held the mail not only for me, but others in my building. They also couldn't tell me when it would be back in service or when I could get my mail. Whenever I drive home, I pass the mailboxes and see the sad sight of a building where mail is more difficult to get now than over in Hells Canyon.

Next - Across the street from my doctor, there is an unusal combination of stores in one building. On the right is a cake and candy shop. On the left is an autobody shop. I would suggest clicking on the image to see this better. I never noticed it until my last doctor appointment.

Shopping Cart Discussion

2010-09-22T08:55:00.004-04:00

Normally, shopping is not my thing. However, my shopping experience improves with little things I like. For example, shopping carts. Until last year, when I went to the grocery store I had a choice of a basket (image from Staples)

or a full size shopping cart (image from Garden Grove)

The grocery stores in my area started implementing an intermediate option - a smaller two-level cart or what I call a "baby buggy".

It's not nearly as cumbersome as the full size buggy (cart) and can handle a gallon of milk or two quite easily unlike the basket. Thanks, area grocery stores!

Successful Lunchtime Adventures

2010-09-21T08:29:00.004-04:00

Earlier, I posted about my attempts to find the Red Hook Lobster Pound lunch truck. Yesterday, I was finally able to catch up with them.
I got the lobster roll (left) and shrimp roll(right) each with a voluminous amount of meat.
Their softdrinks are from Maine as well.
It was very good and I would recommend it, but get there early. This was the line after I got my rolls - 15 minutes after the truck opened.

Early Retirement?

2010-09-13T08:35:00.003-04:00

Yes, I think it would be great to retire 25 years early. Unfortunately I don't have a major source of money coming my way to allow it. If I did, this CNN Money article would be handy - the 25 best college towns to retire. I was surprised Athens, GA was ranked as low as it was. It is a nice place to be.

Random Thoughts Day

2010-09-10T10:44:00.003-04:00

Football:

1) Prior to this week's Cougar-Montana State game, the flagwavers who proudly make sure that the WSU Flag flies during ESPN's College Gameday will be honored. While it is nice to see the WSU flag flown and the Cougs who contributed be recognized for such, I don't know if press releases indicating this feel right - especially when Cougar football is trying to regain relevancy. I don't see schools like Georgia, Ohio State, Clemson, or even Maryland having press releases announcing the flagwaver's recognition ceremony. As my little tribute, when I watch College Gameday, I first look for the Cougar flags and I enjoyed the Cougar Flag College Game Day commercial. That's just my opinion.

2) I very much enjoyed the post of why the WSU Punter should be nominated for the Heisman Award even it was in jest of the futility of the offense. The work he's done the past couple of years has been voluminous.

3) I am glad to be able to watch the game on TV tomorrow night. I hope it isn't because it will be the only game I can see where they might actually win. Here's hoping to a better year!

Non-Football

1) Someone commented that I snored on the commuter bus this morning and I felt really bad about it. To that person's defense, I felt when I did and it was because I had my head tilted back on the headrest. Sad to say I felt worse about it then the few times Squirrel has mentioned when I snored. It just got me thinking it just isn't right that I treat someone else's mentioning of snoring more importantly than when my significant other mentions occasional snoring. Sorry, Squirrel.

2) I was very happy to see 32oz cups back where I get breakfast in the morning. I don't get coffee, I get soda. The lids had no straw hole, but I was still happy.

3) I like the term "geographically handicapped relationship" from this article. I think it describes Squirrel and I since we currently live on opposite coasts.

4) Sorry folks, I doubt MTV's Jersey Shore isn't going away soon. More viewers keep watching. All I can say is amazing!

Maddie Update

2010-09-09T14:26:00.003-04:00

When I saw this the other day, I couldn't help but wonder what thoughts were going through Maddie's mind.
The last time I went home, I saw this at the airport I had a layover. I couldn't help but to think of the cat I left at home.

End of Summer

2010-09-03T10:27:00.002-04:00

Labor Day's approaching and Maddie Cat is shedding like crazy. Fall's approaching and sights like this will disappear.

Note how the window is wide open letting the hot air in on top of the A/C

Required Reading, I think

2010-08-31T08:22:00.002-04:00

Do you fly commercially? Do you utilize the major airlines to fly from one city to another? If so, I think this MSNBC article should be required reading.

Yes, travelling with the airlines is stressful and can be downright unpleasant. You are not the only one stuck in the flying tube - there are about 150 other people in your situation. Believe it or not, there are little things we can do to make things a little better (and maybe get there a little earlier). The article mentions 10 things we (you AND I) can do to make flying a little better for all.

Bottom line is be patient . . . we will all get to where we are going sometime. Perhaps faster if everyone is patient.

Lunchtime Adventures of Gorillaboy

2010-08-27T13:25:00.003-04:00

Today, I heard that Red Hook Lobster Pound was going to be in my general area. Last night, they tweeted that they were going to be around Metro Center. Seeing articles like this in the Washington Post, the lobster rolls reminded of Bob's Clam Hut in Maine. My mouth was watering for a lobster roll.

Knowing they were planning to arrive at 11:30, I grabbed my Internet-ready cell phone and went off on my adventure to find the lobster truck. I got to a Metro Center entrance, and looked to see where the truck was - only to find out they were stuck in traffic and tweet the location later. Some had guessed the location and started to line up (line ended just above the top of the blue taxi).

At around noon, I couldn't wait any longer and saw the yellowvender a block earlier who sold spicy as well as teriyaki chicken and beef.

I decided to get food there and got the spicy chicken and beef.

It was very good - and very spicy. For $7, it was hard to beat. After consuming my luncheon goodness, I went back to the location where the lobster truck and the line had doubled (back to just over the head of the 2 on the left crossing the street).

Lobster is good, but I don't know if it is wait for over an hour good. With temperatures about 80 degrees with humidity not overbearing, it was a great day to be outside on my adventure nonetheless.

Where to Eat at Washington State (and Pac-10 too)

2010-08-26T12:34:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned earlier, ESPN's Pac-10 blog is having a series of best restaurants in the Pac-10. The best restaurants in Pullman was first. What a trip down memory lane. Of the places mentioned, I have eaten/drank at Sella's, Cougar Country Drive-in, Rancho Viejo, and had a good number of weekly "barley seminars" at Rico's which lasted into the late hours of the evening. In the first link, I mentioned about Sella's.

One other restaurant I remembered when reading this yesterday was Gambino's in Moscow, Idaho. It was not on the best of Pullman list - there is a reason. The Gambino's I remember is no longer there. Gambino's closed then reopened as a family restaurant. No more fishbowls of beer. I have a fishbowl in my special glasses/bottles case from my 23rd birthday that I got from Gambino's when I drank the fishbowl full of beer. The fishbowl looked like this image from Amazon.com. The next time Squirrel and I find ourselves in Pullman, some other restaurants will be on our itinerary.

See Those Unique Events

2010-08-25T12:35:00.002-04:00

It is the time of year for State and County Fairs. Recently, I talked to someone about how he goes home many years for the State Fair. Squirrel has made it a point to enjoy the county fairs she saw in Oregon. County Fairs have some unique events like one county's Pig-N-Ford races.

Seeing these unique events is one thing I am really good at putting off (too crowded, too hot, whatever), but in someways wish I just went - then something may happen to put the future in jeopardy. I haven't had any major regrets yet - other than maybe forgetting or to charge a camera prior to going.

I heard on the radio recently that one unique event was cancelled at a northern Montana county fair. That event was a pig wrestling contest. The event was cancelled due to the lack of wild pigs caught be fair time. They may bring it back next year - if enough pigs are available.

For those who wanted to see a pig wrestling event, who knows if the event will come back. I have not expressed interest in going to Northern Montana to see this, but I've had other examples like walking Augusta National.

Bottom line is that the moral of the story is if there is something you really want to do, do it because who knows what the future may have.

More Traffic Jam Woes

2010-08-24T09:19:00.003-04:00

This morning, I saw this on MSNBC's website: Here is the article.

I couldn't help but to think back to my post yesterday. Let's see . . . 60 mile long traffic jam going at a pace of 1/2 mile per day. At that rate, people will be sitting in traffic for 120 DAYS! I can't help to wonder how many people would entertain the possibility of spending DAYS in a traffic jam. I know I wouldn't do it. At some point after a certain number of hours (and a way to get off the freeway), I would give up - even if I were a trucker and this is my job. If I were a trucker with a sleeper, I might stretch it to a day or two. I notice the picture has only trucks on the photographed section of highway appearing in the article as of now. I just find this all amazing and wacky and obviously, there is something I don't get.

I'll end on this today: How was your commute in this morning and out this afternoon? Not bad - compared to this.

Traffic

2010-08-23T08:16:00.004-04:00

Commutting about 30 miles to DC 5 of 7 days per week, the hours I spend getting to and from work rise quickly. They can rise even quicker if there is a traffic jam, construction, or worse an accident. I admit, after a longer than usual commute, I tend to be cranky. I guess I really shouldn't.

This morning, I saw this MSNBC article about a possible 60 mile traffic jam due to construction. It seems like residents of big cities in China are used to these traffic jams if cars are packed with items to pass the time by. The commutter buses don't afford that luxury here. But some have found ways to pass time at the expense of the bus seats (notice the shading and the smiling face).

Travelfood - Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport

2010-08-20T15:19:00.003-04:00

If you find yourself in a lengthy connection time at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport, I would recommend stopping by Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in the E terminal. The big sign will guide you.

On a trip to Texas a few years ago, I stopped at a Pappadeaux and left with a full stomach and a great experience. For airport food, this was hard to beat. Going out, I had a bowl of etuffee.

and coming back, I got another crawfish platter (fried crawfish and etuffee).
They were both quite delicious with a little spice, but not too much. The atmosphere is much like a typical chain sit down restaurant like TGI Fridays or Applebees.

The only thing that would make these experiences better? Lower prices, but I won't complain too much. Recommend.

Best Food In The Pac-10

2010-08-19T08:18:00.003-04:00

Here's a series I like: Best food in the Pac-10. If you find yourself in a town with a Pac-10 school, check here for some good eats from last year. Or check this blog right before the season (aka SOON!) for this year's list. A quick perusal of the other conference blogs regarding their road trips do not contain food stops (Boo, ACC & SEC).

Pac-10 Rocks!

Aside: I was not appreaciative of unique places to eat when I lived in Pullman, so I never did go to the Coug - The Pullman recommendation. One time I find myself back in Pullman I'd like to go. One place that I did enjoy going was Sella's for pizza and calzones.

DC Happenings

2010-08-18T15:04:00.005-04:00

New Traffic Lights!
Riding around DC on the commuter bus, I've been able to see what DC has been doing, I'm assuming with part of their American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money. It seems like most of the traffic lights on my various routes to work are being replaced - leaving sights like this.

Beautiful Cities!
Here's a welcome sign highlighting the beautiful cities of DC and Balitmore. I just found it humorous.

A Walk Near a Training Facility

2010-08-17T15:33:00.003-04:00

One morning, I misread my appointment time by 30 minutes on the early side. As a result, I got to take a 15 minute walk around the building I had to work at for the week. I walked to the major freeway.
And took another picture.
St Dominic's Church near the freeway.

What Happens When One Leaves "Civilization"?

2010-08-16T08:21:00.004-04:00

Based on the title and what you know of me, guess which MSNBC article caught my attention as I consumed breakfast?

Yes, it was this article about a group of scentists leaving "civilization" for a few days.

As I was reading this article, I saw many of the reasons why I try to go to rural areas with no (or little) cell phone coverage for my vacations. The article isn't a true scientific proof this type of vacation is beneficial, but hopefully it might lead to some research that perhaps I'm not as crazy as others may think I am going to the places I do for vacation. A lot like the scientists I feel A LOT more rested as a result of these types of trips compared to whan I travel to popular vacation destinations like Florida, New York, or Las Vegas.

What experiences do I share with these scientists?

I think that prolonged periods of multitasking negatively affect performance. I get tired easier and sometimes don't perform as effectively as I could. After a relaxing vacation, I tend to perform better and feel less stressed.

Speaking of stress, I think going to popular vacation destinations is an assault on the senses - much like the multitasking and various forms of communications associated with our jobs.

Time does slow down the longer I stay in rural areas. I tend to be on my own timetable even if I specifically plan to leave at a certain time. You wanna know something? It really doesn't matter if I leave late - and that's the great thing!

The article is a great read and would recommend it. I would also recommend a trip like this every once in awhile. The New York Times article appears here.

Travelfood - Salt Lake City, Utah

2010-08-13T08:10:00.004-04:00

While in Salt Lake City last week, I ate at 2 places of note:

Arctic Circle to relive a childhood memory, and

Bruges Waffles & Frites because I saw it on Man vs Food and I once spent a few days in Bruges, Belgium. It is a small place located right across the street from Pioneer Park. I missed the first couple times I drove by.
The movable signs can and outside tables can help you find it too.

The episode of Man vs Food highlighted the Machine Gun sandwich, but when I arrived they did not have any fresh bread. Having a flight to catch, I "settled" for a waffle. When I did, I found another treat to this small restaurant. It was the best waffle I had in the States - matched only when I was in Belgium. I had the torpedo waffle which is a waffle with 2 bars of dark, rich Belgian chocolate baked inside it. As a treat, I topped my torpedo waffle with fresh strawberries and freshly made whipped cream and it was a DELIGHT!
To savor every bite, I ate this waffle quite slowly.
It is expensive (my waffle cost almost $10), but it was SURE WORTH IT. Even without the chocolate, the waffle is delicious. There was more flavor than the waffles made with mixes as they are in this country. Strongly recommend if you find yourself in Salt Lake City - machine gun sandwich or waffle, I don't think you'll be diappointed.

Pop Tart Shop

2010-08-12T11:29:00.003-04:00

Who doesn't like Pop Tarts toaster pastries?
You might not like all the flavors, but I don't know of anyone who hates all varieties of Pop Tarts.

Now, there will be a whole store dedicated to Pop Tarts, just like a store devoted to M&Ms. The first Pop Tart store will be in Times Square in New York City, according to this article. In the store, you will be able to order Pop Tart Sushi, which is a combination of flavors that looks like a sushi roll.

All I can say is interesting.

Travelfood - Ely, Nevada

2010-08-11T09:28:00.003-04:00

While visiting the town of Ely, Nevada, I stayed and ate at the Jailhouse Motel and Casino. It is one of two buildings in Ely that has lights like in Las Vegas (the other being the Hotel Nevada). The motel is across the street from the casino and restaurants. One aspect of staying there I liked was that for breakfast each morning you got a coupon for either a free continental breakfast or $2.50 off a breakfast in the coffee shop. One morning, I went to the coffee shop and got the Mexican Breakfast Burrito that had egg, cheese, potatoes, and chorizo sausage that was on a bed of lettuce and tomatoes. With the salsa, it was EXCELLENT!
This is all I could eat at the first sitting. With in-room refrigerators, the burrito lasted me two mornings, which was even better.
For those not interested in a coffee shop, there is a sitdown restaurant in the cellblock. Yes, the Jailhouse takes full advantage of the play on words. I got to stay in a "jail cell" while I was there. Friendly people and unique - I would stay there again. Recommend.

Travelfood - Arctic Circle Restaurants

2010-08-10T09:56:00.003-04:00

Last week, I got to relive a childhood memory by going to an Arctic Circle Restaurant. AC is another hamburger chain that exists in certain western States - including Oregon! When I was younger, ACs were known for their fresh lime squeezes, taco salads, and having the first french fry sauce I tasted. The current one I went to in Salt Lake City has those same staples - including the smell of french fry sauce.

The only difference was instead of "Bounty" Burgers (1/4 pounders), they now have black angus burgers. Everything was good when I was there and would recommend if you would like fast food, but not the standard McDonalds, Burger King, etc.

ORD - Chicago O'Hare Airport

2010-08-09T14:47:00.005-04:00

I used to really enjoy flying the airlines. One thing I really enjoyed about them was walking around airports. I flew through Chicago O'Hare Airport many times on my way to locations such as Detroit, Michigan or Orlando, Florida. I thought O'Hare airport was cool. Now I know how much of a dork I really was. What was cool in the late 80s or early 90s is not so much now.
First, the spaceage-ish design:
Here's a concourse:
Here's the underpassageway between concourses. In this light show, some new age relaxing music is played. Dorky!
Silly Items Noticed Recently:
In case you miss sitting in cramped, flimsy seats on the plane during your connection, you can sit in airplane seats in the airport as well!
And my favorite, directions how to use the toilet. Yes, you have to wave your hand above the toilet before use.

Hi, There! What's Going On?

2010-08-06T12:47:00.002-04:00

For me, the past couple of weeks have been quite eventful - which is why it appeared I fell off the face of the blogging universe. Here's what's up:

Last week (the last week in July), I was in training providing an introduction to supervision. It was an all-week affair where I had to arrive early and stay a little later (to keep up with activities related to my job). The training occurred at a good time as an opportunity came up and I had to make a decision on whether it was time for me to start having a staff and everything that is associated with that (good and bad). After a week of training and some serious thought, I've decided that I am not ready at this time, but perhaps would feel more comfortable with it in the future.

This week (the first week in August), I was on vacation! I packed my camera as well as a few changes of clothes and flew to Salt Lake City. Once there, I got a car and drove 1,368 miles to see Mount Nebo in Utah, Great Basin National Park, Lamoille Canyon, and Jarbidge in Nevada, as well as some rural ranches in Idaho. Now, I am sitting in the Salt Lake Airport awaiting a flight home. It was a great getaway from it all and I feel more refreshed for the next 2-month push at work which will be busy.

As with these trips, there were great places I ate and been to which will provide material for this blog the next few weeks. Stay tuned and see you shortly!

Travelfood - Portland, Oregon

2010-07-23T12:55:00.002-04:00

More great places to eat in Portland!!!

As mentioned in Travel Channel's Man vs Food, Voodoo doughnut is definitely a local doughnut shop with various kinds of doughnuts that are unique. You can get doughnuts topped with popular children's cereals like Fruit Loops and Captain Crunch. You can also get a maple bar topped with bacon - just to name a few. The other doughnut pictured is the Marshall Matters. A must for a unique Portland experience.

On the way to Seaside, there a great place to stop 18 miles from where US 26 meets US 101 - Camp 18. It is a logging themed restaurant with Logger-sized meals. The website has a picture of the large Cinnamon Rolls. Recently, I stopped and had a "logger dog" - a foot long, 1/2 pound hot dog which was yummy. In my opinion, breakfast is the time to go but anytime is better than no time. Highly recommend.

Farewell

2010-07-22T09:56:00.002-04:00

Last night, I noticed that the baby birds had left their nest and hung out on the deck. This is normally a sign that they will be expanding their wings into the world shortly. Right before they left, they were watching the happenings in the neighborhood.

Maddie kept tabs on them as best she could yesterday.
Right before I went to bed, I checked on the baby birds and they were gone. They had not returned this morning. This means that it is time to pack up their nest (as well as Squirrel's bike) and finish cleaning the deck - the HOA is about to powerwash and seal the deck. I'm just glad the babies hatched and were able to join the world before their childhood home (the patio) was shaken up with the washing and sealing.

Daddy & Stormy Trip

2010-07-21T09:39:00.001-04:00

While falling asleep listening to the radio the other night, I heard of something that would contribute to what would be the ultimate daddy-Stormy trip for us. Here's a link for those of you who don't know Stormy. We have not had many daddy-Stormy moments posted here. One such moment was when we celebrated Stormy's 21st (dog year) birthday with some Bowser Beer.

Here's what would be the ultimate daddy-Stormy trip: Daddy and Stormy head to the Scotland. For Daddy, we stop at St. Andrews, the unofficial home of Golf. On Sundays, no golf is played on the Old Course at St. Andrews (where the played the Open last weekend), but the course is open for walkers - and their dogs! Stomy and I can walk the old course at St Andrews stopping at the Swilcan Bridge to have a picture taken of us.

For Stormy, we would head to the land of his ancestors, the Shetland Islands so Stormy can stand on a cliff with his nose to the wind - what we call his Sheltie pose. And, of course, have a picture or two taken.

If Squirrel is nice to us, we may let her come along on our daddy-Stormy trip
:-D

While I Was Away

2010-07-20T14:21:00.002-04:00

the baby birds hatched. When I came back from Oregon last month, I found a rebuilt nest and the momma bird sitting on her eggs. When Squirrel arrived, we found babies..

What's Up??

2010-07-19T12:21:00.003-04:00

It's been a little over a week . . . what's new? With me,

I travelled to Oregon! This time it was for business, so there were no afternoons off - I was either working at my organization's office in Oregon or in meetings. At night, I was able to hang out with Squirrel. Oh, I arrived a little early to spend the weekend with her as well as do the Mt Hood Loop scenic drive with her. Here's a better map.

I flew back on Thursday so I can be in town to pick up Squirrel as she flew east on Friday morning. We saw friends on Friday.

This past weekend we were in Atlantic City to see the host of one of our favorite Shows, The Soup, perform live comedy. If you enjoy The Soup, you will enjoy Joel McHale's comedy. The act was an extension of The Soup along with some other material. The first act, Rory Albanese, was a funny one as well. Rory produces The Daily Show and has had a Standup special on Comedy Central. Highly recommend.

The show was at the Borgata. In the Borgata, there was a Bobby Flay Steak restaurant. If you are a steak lover, you have to go if you get the opportunity. It is a nice steak place ($30-$50 range for a steak dinner), but well worth it. Squirrel enjoyed the Louisiana Filet Mignon and I very much enjoyed the Southwestern Ribeye with green & red chiles.

There was also activity at the condo involving my birdie friends which I will save for tomorrow's post.

Decisions - The Day After

2010-07-09T08:59:00.001-04:00

The decision was made. While folding laundry last night, I heard the "all about me" show where LeBron James made his decision. Aside: did we really need to know if he was biting his fingernails? In case the power was out or you slept from 9:20pm Eastern until now, he decided to join 2 other superstars in Miami to make a super team to win titles. My first thought after this was to root for the Los Angeles Lakers to win the title next year - which for a guy who was born and raised in Portland, Oregon is almost blasphemy. Why did I think that? In my view, the finals will be the Heat vs the Lakers - we'll see if I (and some others) are right. In my view, the Lakers are more of a team that became better together instead of a collection of hired guns brought in to stomp over everyone.

What's amazing about this is the negative feelings toward James right now. Obviously the suitors that he didn't choose aren't happy like in Cleveland and in the New York area (see the New York Daily News covers below).
What I found amazing was an entry on one of my Cougar blogs where LeBron's decision was compared to Tony Bennett's decision to leave Pullman to coach at the University of Virginia. I was in Las Vegas, Nevada, when I found out that Tony Bennett left. My first thought was Virginia??? Kind of like what the author of the blog post mentioned, too.

Despite what others may think of the decisions - if the ones who decide are happy then I wish them the best.

Decision Day 2010

2010-07-08T08:56:00.003-04:00

I'll be glad when LeBron James makes his decision tonight and the whole world can continue again with our dull, mundane lives. Will I watch the hour-long decision show? No, I've got more important things I need to do like laundry and cleaning off the patio (no joke, the HOA is making us remove everything from our patios for the time being). I'll wait until I go to bed and turn on the sportstalk show I listen to before I go to sleep and find out then. I don't think I'll have to wait long then. I don't have 4 hours to devote to the 3 hour pre-show and 1 hour "Decision" show on ESPN. It's depressing sometimes how involved we all are in what I think are trivial matters like this - the sun will rise tomorrow morning for everyone no matter where Mr. LeBron decides to play. The sun will rise and the world will continue unlike what today's headline New York Daily News is:

If you really want to be depressed (or a reason to be depressed), I saw ESPN has it's salary cruncher where you can input a highly paid athlete and your annual salary then it will tell you how many games it takes the athlete to make your annual salary. For me, it was 0.4 games for Dirk Nowitzki.

What's Maddie Been Up To?

2010-07-07T10:32:00.003-04:00

A whole lot of resting.

Not really into the FIFA World Cup
Now that the weather's warm, she has taken refuge in a cooler area underneath a night stand in the tv room.
At night (and sometimes during the day), her favorite place is on a body pillow which she has claimed as her bed.

Worst Commutes Worldwide

2010-07-06T08:24:00.003-04:00

I complain about my commute. So do many of my fellow co-workers in DC. I also love driving and commutting statistics. After reading this article, I probably shouldn't complain much. There are commutes A LOT worse.

IBM has a Commuter Pain Index (aside: LOVE the name) that consists of 10 factors:

1) commuting time,

2) time stuck in traffic,

Consensus that:

This link has a slideshow of the 21 worst commutes world wide and their Pain Index. Washington, DC didn't make the top 25 and the worst US city was Los Angeles with a score of only 25. The worst 3 cities (Beijing, Mexico City, and Johannesburg) had scores above 96. In short, I shouldn't complain too much.

OMG!

2010-07-02T09:53:00.005-04:00

Lately, I've been addicted to the Travel Channel's show Man vs Food. I've caught up with much of the previous season's show thanks to what seems to be a daily marathon of past shows. Those who know me know I like a good unique hamburger. Yesterday's post is a good example.

In an episode last night, I saw the Double Big Jud burger which is 2 pounds of ground beef that is topped with almost 2 pounds of additional toppings on an oversized bun. Here are some pictures of the sandwich.

While watching this, I was reminded of the Monster Burger I tried at Ron's Place in Port Allegany, PA which was a pound of ground beef plus minimal toppings on an oversized bun.

I may have to stop at Big Jud's the next time I'm near Boise - but not for the double OR TRIPLE Big Jud Burger.

Travelfood - Portland, Oregon

2010-07-01T12:37:00.004-04:00

There are 3 places in Portland where I really enjoy a hamburger. I call them "The Burger Mafia" because I was told that the originators of The Hanger, Helvetia Tavern, and Stanich's might be from the same family. I don't know if that is really true, but to me, these are the king pin burger places in Portland. I recently got to visit my favorite of the 3, Stanich's.

Stanich's is a neighborhood sports bar with great food. Be sure to bring cash because they do not accept credit cards. They even serve RC Cola - a definite plus to get away from the chain restaurants!

Their special burger is a big one that is topped with lettuce, tomato, egg, ham, cheese, and a special sauce which blends the whole thing together nicely.
It also doesn't make you want to explode like the Babe's Burger did with a 2/3 pound patty and all the ingredients including egg and ham.

By the way, I found a neat Portland burger blog that I may reference for the future. I referenced this with Helvetia Tavern and Stanich's

Birds Are Back!

2010-06-30T08:32:00.003-04:00

Just when I thought the birds were gone for the year (again - see March and May), the birds are back in their ususal spot - right on Squirrel's bike.

Maddie and I check everyday and the bird hasn't left in awhile, so I think there's another baby in the future. Stay tuned. I wonder if it the same bird and she likes to go forth and multiply? One thing's for sure - when Squirrel comes back next year and uses her bike again, there will be interspecie quarrel over who claims the bike!

Travelfood - Astoria, Oregon

2010-06-29T14:12:00.001-04:00

The Silver Salmon Grille is located in downtown Astoria. It is not a waterfront restaurant, but boating and fishing was the main décor. They serve lunch and dinner. The prices are typical for dinner which is between $20 and 30.

What made this place appealing was the large selection of menu items compared to other menus around Astoria. There are selections for the seafood and non-seafood lover. I had the Alder Planked Salmon which was cooked about perfectly. The sauce was very good as well. The service was very good as well – almost too responsive of service.

Overall, recommend.

More Gift Ideas

2010-06-28T09:13:00.007-04:00

Recently, I had to hang out at a Best Buy for an hour while speakers were being installed in my car. It provided a good opportunity to update my Birthday/Christmas List. Here's the latest version:

Luggage - the bag I've been using for 10+ years is looking a bit worn. I would like 2 American Tourister bags. They are the ones with the ads about withstanding the gorilla treatment. Colors other than black would be great so they will stick out better.

A 21 inch roller bag that I can carry on airplanes. I do not need the spinner rollers.

A 25 inch bag that I can check. Again, no need for spinner rollers.

2011 Wallowa County Calendar

Southwest Airlines Gift Card for either a rendezvous with Squirrel or a Gorillaboy trip in early 2011. I've seen these at the Safeways here.

Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 for the laptop.

A book: Oregon's Greatest Natural Disasters.

A book: Oregon Curiosities. There is also a second one too!

The National Parks - America's Best Idea was a series that was on PBS last year. The book and Blu-Ray

Glass beer boot with an Oregon beer company label or WSU label.

DVDs & Blu-Rays

Oregon Splendor DVD.

Idaho an Aerial Tapestry DVD.

Scenic National Parks: The Best of the National Parks [Blu-ray] (2009)

Howard The Duck DVD - It's stupid, but it's funny and light!

True Blood Season 2 Blu-Ray

Ice Road Truckers Season 3 Blu-Ray

The Tudors Season 3

Weeds Season 5

Californication Season 3

Spartacus: Blood & Sand

My Boys: The Complete Second and Third Seasons (2008)

Girls Next Door Season 5 DVD

The Tudors - The Final Season (when it comes out on DVD).

Gift Cards from - I think you can find these at Safeway as well

iTunes

Macy's - for some new shirts

Amazon

Manly Cities

2010-06-25T10:14:00.002-04:00

I must be out of place. According to this article, Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC are in the top 10 of manliest cities in the US. The city where I'm from, Portland, OR, was rated last. The survey was released by Mars Chocolate and looks at manly lifestyle items like number of home improvement stores, steak houses, pick-up trucks, etc. What makes it worse was that Los Angeles was considered more manly than Portland.

If you are interested, Charlotte, NC was ranked as the manliest city.

Sorry, Squirrel - according to this article you are not dating a "manly" man.

"No Duh" Headline

2010-06-24T08:42:00.002-04:00

I happen to peruse the MSNBC website between the time General McChrystal met with President Obama and it was announced that the General would not command the forces in Afghanistan anymore. Here was the headline:

I couldn't help but chuckle because unless the meeting was held in our own home, don't we all leave the meeting location at some point? I go to many meetings at work and in all occasions, I leave the office building after the meeting - at some point. Does that deserve a top headline? Unfortunately, I'm not that important.

Lesser Known Gems (National Parks) to Visit

2010-06-23T08:36:00.004-04:00

I don't like crowds many times. I put up with them to get to an end. Some of the more popular National Parks can be crowded - especially during peak travel times. I enjoy visiting National Parks that aren't nearly as popular. MSNBC had a slideshow with some of these lesser known National Parks. I have currently visited 3 of them and will visit another later this summer. I can honestly say I did not know of 12 of them until today. I'm sure many good travelpics can be found at all these parks.

Doesn't Seem Right

2010-06-22T16:33:00.003-04:00

I like HP steak sauce - more so the original before Heinz took over. I dunno about the "fruity" steak sauce, tho.

Climate Shock!

2010-06-21T16:29:00.003-04:00

For the past week, I was in Portland to visit Squirrel and the fam. Everyone's great. Yesterday, I flew back to a dramatic change in climate. From the Weather Channel's website, I got the weather for the past week and the next 10 days from where I was, Portland, Oregon:
To where I am now, Washington, DC:
Not only am I experiencing jet lag from the time zone change, but I'm also experiencing climate shock. Note the low temperatures for DC . . . many of the lows are warmer than the highs for Portland!!!!

All I can say is ugh! Summer is here in DC and maybe summer will come soon for Portland!

Ice Road Truckers

2010-06-11T08:48:00.001-04:00

On Sunday a favorite "man reality" show fave of mine came back, Ice Road Truckers. Basically, it chronicles the adventures and misadventures of a group of truck drivers as they make their deliveries on an "ice road". I thought last year would be it because the plot pretty much became repetitive. But, there was a new star that season that I'm sure captivated the male audience and History Channel would try one more season with her as a primary star. Not only that, but turn up the drama becuase they are driving the same road - except for a detour to a ghost town and an isolated small village.

What brought the biggest smile to me on Sunday's premiere episode was how much Squirrel and Lisa share the same personality.

The premiere showed Lisa's love for animals. Those who know Squirrel know her love for animals. The only difference would be that Squirrel may not allow the miniature horse in the house. I don't think I would be a fan of that.

Like both of us, sometimes a word temporarily escapes Lisa's vocabulary and the use of the word "thingys".

Lisa is out to prove herself in the world - and so is Squirrel - whether it will be in town or outside town. If you look at a lower corner highlighting the new season, you see Lisa pushing her way into the 2 primary stars, Hugh and Alex. I find it good symbolism.

In the premiere episode, when Lisa was asked to relinquish her truckload to another driver, she was frustrated - much like how Squirrel gets frustrated when something she really wanted to succeed in doing doesn't quite work out. I find this a good personality trait because when Squirrel gets another chance, she makes it her passion to show she can succeed (see above). I'm sure Lisa will and I'll see yet another similarity.

It was the last item that inspired this post - as a compliment. It makes me feel like Squirrel is at home when I see these similar traits on tv Sunday nights :-)

No More Pac-10?

2010-06-10T09:43:00.002-04:00

That's what all the rumor is about. Heck, this post by ESPNs Ted Miller late last night says "Get Ready for the Pac-16". Nebraska is rumored to go to the Big 10 to make them a 12-team conference. According to this report, Nebraska's move will start a dramatic shift westward which will make the Pac-10 a 16-team conference.

It is rumored that the Pac-10 might try to take 6 teams from the Big-12: Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, and Colorado. Those teams would join Arizona and Arizona State in one division while the others (original Pac-8 teams - including WSU) would be in the other division.

The reason for all this? Money - and football is where the money is at. I can't help but feel bad for Kansas, a legendary college basketball power which might very well be left behind because they are a basketball power and not a football power. This provides some perspective from Kansas and has some of Kansas coach Bill Self's comments. In this regard, it doesn't look good for perceived basketball conferences like the ACC and Big East.

If this shifting all happens as planned, will this be good for WSU? For the school as a whole, YES. One article linked above mentions that tv revenue could at least double if not more with the new TV deal the Pac-16 would command. That's money that can really help a university in tough financial times like this. Athletically? I'm not sure. With the power houses and mid-level powers possibly being brought in to an already tough Pac-10, it will be very difficult to be competitive (it already is difficult). Travel is going to be more complicated, recruiting is going to be tougher, and it will be tougher to keep coaches - especially keeping coaches from other members of the same conference with more resources, prestige, etc.

One thing I did notice in the article is that the Pac-16 may try to secure 2 automatic BCS bowl berths - one for each division. That's going to be a tough sell, in my opinion, until the new Pac-16 proves itself worthy. If the Pac-16 gets two, then I can see the SEC wanting 2 because of the conference's supremecy the past few years.

I'm just amazed how this could all come to pass within 2 weeks - the speed is amazing.

It's Gonna be that Kind of Day

2010-06-09T13:24:00.000-04:00

What a morning it was getting situated. I

sat in a Metro train for over an hour getting to my stop that normally takes 35-40 minutes. The delay was due to a "smoke situation".

almost kicked over a standing cup full of soda when I walked downstairs to get my breakfast. The cup was situated in the middle of the 3rd step down. Quite random. As an aside, when I walked back up someone moved the cup from the middle of a step to the corner of the stairwell.

saw a sign saying that the healthy alternative snack machine would eventually become healthy. Now it has candy, chips, and Pirate's Booty snack

Hope it ends here, I'm off to update my life insurance and go to the dentist now.

Hungry?

2010-06-08T09:17:00.003-04:00

Lobster Ravioli - May 9, 2010
This is the another part of a review done back in 2007. Not much has changed since 2007. Cafe Mediterraneo is still yummy, yummy good. PS: The Water Monkey is a cool store, too!

Hungry?

2010-06-04T09:37:00.004-04:00

May 10, 2010

This is the final part of a review done back in 2007. Not much has changed since 2007. Bob's Clam Hut is still yummy, yummy good.

Money's Tight

2010-06-03T08:47:00.003-04:00

As you hear about in the news, the economy's still trying to get better. However, companies are looking closely at budgets - making cuts where they can. I noticed one cut recently in my organization. It is a subtle one but when you work in the same building for the past 6 years, it may be noticed - and was noticed by me.

Our building does not have coolers or water available for visitors to drink anymore. During the hot and humid summers, when I would enter the building where I work, after the guard would be a cooler and sign that said "STAY COOL - Help yourself to some water". There would be paper cups next to the cooler for the drinkers to refresh themselves with.

Not anymore, I guess. Today, according to Weather.com, it is going to 89 and humid.

Baggage

2010-06-02T09:53:00.007-04:00

Squirrel and I enjoy watching the tv show Baggage. In short, Baggage is a dating show where one person (called person A with a secret of their own in a red bag) selects a potential date from 3 contestants (called persons 1, 2, and 3). Persons 1, 2, and 3, share secrets about themselves that they wouldn't normally share on the first few dates - smallest one first, biggest one last which corresponds to small, medium, and large baggage. The one person then selects the man or woman to go on a date with, but the winning contestant (person 1, 2, or 3) can back out of the date once the Person A's red bag is revealed and is too much to handle. I Hope that makes sense.

Even though the show has been on the air for about a month, I am amazed with all the new "baggage" the contestants seem to have. As Squirrel knows, I have baggage too. In keeping with the show, here's what would be my small, medium, and large baggage: Since contestants are allowed to explain their baggage, after each bag will be followed by the story in italics:

SMALL: I spend over 12 hours per day related to my job
The 12 hours per day includes the time in the office and roughly 3 hours per day commuting.

MEDIUM: I must drive to isolated areas by myself for rest & relaxation.
Every now and then, I need to escape the big city and the stresses that exist there. I typically go on these drives by myself since it doesn't appeal to any of my friends.

LARGE: I have about 20 stuffed toy primates - each with their own name.
The first few were given to me by my best friend. They just multipled thanks to other friends (and Squirrel too).

Some other baggage I have that didn't make the cut:
SMALL: I must organize my books, tapes, CDs, etc alphabetically even if it looks ugly. How else can you find the book you are looking for??

MEDIUM: I must check everything 4 times to avoid anxiety. Yes I admit, that might be a little obsessive, but it is a quirk of mine.

Senator Kendra?

2010-06-01T16:11:00.002-04:00

On the night after Kendra's season finale, I thought it would be good to mention this article where former Girl Next Door Kendra Baskett (was Wilkinson) was mentioned by local talk show callers in Indiana to replace Senator Evan Bayh.

Call it a hunch, but I don't think that's going to happen now that her sex video has come out. Notice the date of the article is February.