Saturday, September 30, 2006

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #8

My friend Jason Pogue is headed to London tomorrow...so this is for him.

THE PORTERHOUSE, Covent Garden, London. (There are other locations, but I can only speak for one).

When I visit London, it is easiest to round up all of my friends at once, at The Porterhouse. Not because it is so easy to find a large table (because it is definitely a challenge), but because it is great food, a wide selection of drinks, and a great atmosphere.

Now, I must remind you, smoking is huge in London and apparently everyone who smokes, smokes here. I'll also remind you that I enjoy the smell of cigarette smoke, so it only adds to my love for this pub.

On to the food. The best item on their menu (downloadable here) is a delicious Classic Burger, 100% Irish beef (that even Matt Jensen has difficulty finishing). It comes with chunky chips (steak fries) and is so much meat there is typically a bathroom run involved before leaving.

My vegetarian friends love this place too...so don't feel left out if you don't eat hamburgers. One buddy has ordered the large bowl of mussels, which was an adventure in itself.

What The Porterhouse is known for is its wide selection of beers. (Remember, this is Europe...drinking is part of their culture)...They carry a majority of the world's beers, sorted by country in the drink menu. Most of my friends order a pint of Oyster (brewed with Oysters). Myself: Diet Coke (the most expensive drink on the menu).

If you are ever in London...head to The Porterhouse. Honestly, it is an amazing location (surrounded by shops), and a great local pub (not too many tourists).

Here's a picture of my friend Ryan with his mussels (not muscles), chunky chips and Oyster:

Friday, September 29, 2006

ApologetiX

I am a part of the ApologetiX fan club. I became a member about a year-and-a-half ago. I joined primarily because that meant I could listen to the MP3s on the website.

Honestly, I think they are pretty clever. Ridiculously serious, their inability to realize that what they do is actually more funny than evangelistic breaks my heart a little bit.

Maybe they would be more popular if they were able to laugh at themselves.

Check out their discography. If you are in the mood for a laugh, join the fan club and listen to some MP3s.

A few of my favorites:

Bethelehemian Rhapsody (Parody of "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen)

Naomi Gonna Be with Ruth (Parody of "Only Wanna Be With You" by Hootie & the Blowfish)

The Real Sin Savior (Parody of "The Real Slim Shady" by Eminem)

Oh...and something that might be fun for you, but not for your surrounding company: google the lyrics to each song and try to sing their words to the tune of the original song. (This made Matt Jensen very angry after about 20 minutes, though it was still very funny to me.)

You're Welcome.

3 Catfish & a Trout (also called Fish and Fancy Clothes)

I purchased a red dress on Monday afternoon and decided to wear it to work today. I apparently did not have enough foresight to think about what my day entailed.

After a very fun breakfast/coffee with a friend, I headed over to Ralph's to complete the shopping list for this weekend's services. Shopping list: 4 trout.

I walked to the back of the store and rang the seafood section bell for assistance. A man, who seemed unhappy about being interrupted during his work in the back, came to my aide.

I am not in the fish-business...I don't know how it's run. I asked the man if the display held the total of their stock or if there were more fish in back. He, very quickly, told me this was all.

So I settled for 3 catfish and 1 trout. I stood as he wrapped the 4 fish in a plastic bag and paper. He handed me each fish as he finished this 2-step process.

But wait, here's the best part. He would pick up the nasty-gutted-seppuku-ed fish with his right hand (covering that glove with guts and blood), weigh it with the left, then wrap it and price it with that gut-covered right hand before handing it to me.

I was not pleased with this decision, and I think he could read that on my face. I thanked him several times, and then proceeded to the check-out counter holding the bloody wrapping of 3 catfish and a trout as far away from my red-dressed body as possible.

Note: Fish and Fancy Clothes do not mix.

Thursday, September 28, 2006

Guilty Pleasures #5

I love the smell of wet pavement and cigarettes.

It reminds me of London.

For some reason the shopping center (centre) near my home has puddles in the parking lot and a few smokers on the sidewalk every morning around 9. Lately I have been strategically parking, during my morning bagel/coffee run, so I can enjoy a few extra steps of that smell.

I wish I could describe the feeling it gives me: this deep longing for something I can't have, mixed with these memories that I can't forget...and I can't help but smile.

If you ever see me walking out of Starbucks with a big grin on my face...you are in on my secret...it's the smell.

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

Third Place

Where do you feel the most comfortable? Where do you spend most of your time? Where do you go everyday, no matter what?

Most people would say (1) Home and (2) Work...

Starbucks has developed a THIRD PLACE principle. The hope is that in addition to home and work, a customer would feel most comfortable...spend free time...make a daily stop at...their local Starbucks.

Every morning on my way to work I stop at East Coast Bagels and Starbucks. At each stop they know my name, and my order. I am greeted with a smile and "How are you doing?" before going on with the order (which is typically a confirmation that I want "the usual").

I love that. It's a great start to my morning. The woman at the bagel store often tells me I look nice...or says I'm running a little behind schedule. Last week the credit card machine was down and I was out of cash (who even carries cash these days?) and she gave me my food and let me pay the next day. The woman at Starbucks told me she recognized me from the bagel store--when she was in there on her break. She's called me by name everyday since.

I have great first and second places...but I love my third and fourth, too.

Monday, September 25, 2006

Memories...

I went to Elementary School with "The Bee Girl". You know, from the Blind Melon video. Her name was Heather and she was my friend. I saw her about a year ago and we talked for a bit. She's super nice...and I think she was applying to volunteer in Children's ministry last time I saw her.

That is just the precursor to my memory.

In 1st grade each student is assigned a 6th grade "buddy". The buddy will visit once a week, for an hour, and read to you or draw or tell stories. My 6th grade buddy: the Bee Girl's sister. She was very nice. I do remember that she was always friendly and semi-helpful with my studies. But the thing that stands out most in my mind was her smell.

She smelled exactly like sausage. Every Friday morning when our buddies came around there it was; it was as if their Friday tradition was McDonald's breakfast sandwiches.

This is the kind of thing that fill my mind...this, and every birthday of every friend I've ever had...oh, and a lot of old phone numbers.

Sunday, September 24, 2006

2001 Pulitzer Prize Finalist and Winner

One of the best books I have ever read is A Heart-Breaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers.

Last night, I was searching Amazon.co.uk to see if I could purchase a few British versions of the book for some friends. As I was looking, I saw the "Pulitzer Prize Finalist" sticker on the cover. I remember having seen this before, but I had never taken the time to check to see what book received the prize in 2001.

Turns out it was The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon. My friend Alan gave me this book about 2 months ago, I took it to London, but have yet to finish reading it.

I called Alan right away. What a coincidence. His favorite book beat out mine for the Pulitzer Prize.
Not bad taste in literature, Alan.

Two great reads if you are looking...

Saturday, September 23, 2006

Crossword Puzzle #4

In case you have missed out, or are interested in tracking my crossword-composing progress: #1, #2, #3

This week's:



(NOTE: You may click on the puzzle to enlarge it. At full-size it is usable)

Across
2. John Krasinski's role on The Office
5. Fast food, golden arches
9. American Idol winner 2006
10. Number of Musketeers
11. Airline of LOST fame
12. NBC weight loss show
13. Jenna Fischer's role on The Office
16. Radio DJ, "Disco Duck"
17. Actress killed off The O.C.


Down
1. Robots in Disguise: 7/4/07
3. Island off West Africa
4. Writer/Director of Match Point
6. George Michael, pre-solo career
7. Survivor network
8. Singer: "Bad", "Thriller"
14. Instrument that allows you to see the stars
15. Mary-Kate & Ashley
17. Author of Tom Sawyer & Huck Finn

**Let me know if you are actually completing these!**

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #7

#7 (Remember these are in no order):

Garibaldi's in Chicago.

About a week ago, I went (with 5 others) to visit the Willow Student Ministries Department. On Friday afternoon, they took us to lunch at Garibaldi's. The food was delicious.

Now, keep in mind that this place was Zagat's Rating B at best. It was slightly dirty and very greasy, but 100% tasty. The prices were pretty reasonable as well.

They have everything a typical pizza place should have: pizza (very important), cheesy sandwiches (my choice, and I was very pleased), spaghetti and meatballs, greek salads.

Unfortunately, for most of you this restaurant may be a little too far out of reach...but, if you are ever in the area, stop in for a taste test...you won't be sorry.

Annie Smith disagrees

FYI, from the last post, I have heard Annie's opinion and she does not think this out-of-focus woman looks like her.

If you think about it, check out the actual poster when you are in Starbucks next time...and tell me what you think.

Friday, September 22, 2006

I think this looks like Annie Smith

I took this picture while I was waiting for my frappuccino.

I think the barista in the drawing looks like Annie Smith.

See for yourself:

Chicago Photos...

1) At the "Married With Children" fountain




2) At Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs...also in Sleepless in Seattle ("Somewhere where everytime I go around the corner I don't think of Maggie."--Sam Baldwin)

Thursday, September 21, 2006

I hit 100 last night

Not in bowling (though I wish my scores were that high)...or in golf (though I wish my scores were that low).

In posts. This is actually #102.

In TV, the 100th episode is a big deal. It certifies your show as "Good TV" otherwise it wouldn't have lasted this long.

Does this mean my blog could be considered "Good Posting"? Probably not, even if people didn't read it, I'm pretty sure I'd keep posting.

Can you name some TV shows that have hit 100 episodes?
I'll start: FRIENDS (And, FYI: The 100th episode of FRIENDS is called THE ONE HUNDREDTH and is the one where Phoebe gives birth to her brothers triplets.) Now if that isn't "Good TV" I don't know what is!

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Guilty Pleasures #4

I love to talk to myself. Out loud.

I love to process things aloud in my car, in the shower, in my room, in my office (when Mariah's not around).

I really love to speak in a British accent. Or in a "speech impediment" voice (like Amy Poehler's character on SNL).

Today I stood in the bathroom, looking at myself in the mirror, practicing my speech impediment with fake JH announcement so that I can film a video next week...for about 10 minutes.

I love to pray aloud in a British accent.

Maybe it's blasphemous...but I like to think that God knows everything about me and loves it...why wouldn't He love the part of me that likes to pray out loud in a British accent?

P.S. I'm becoming quite good.

Allison Does Not Work Well With Others

Over the last few days I have had a few truly honest conversations with friends: they have been honest about me, to me.

Tonight a friend told me that I don't work well with others. At first I was caught off guard, but he went on to explain that since I want everything to be done well, I do everything myself. And in that way, I don't work well with others. Totally fair, and honest.

And true. I am aware that my standards are too high at times. But I don't want to cross off "team player" because of my high standards. Most of the time I define "team player" as one who is willing to help whomever, whenever. And I think, in that respect, I could be considered a team player...I want to help get things done...and I want them to be done well.

But, when is excellence a ridiculous thing to expect? Is there anything that is too small to necessitate excellence?

If we are serving the Lord, why would we not put our all in to it?

At what point does pouring our everything in to ministry turn in to being too dry to truly serve the Lord?

I don't want to be difficult to work with. I don't.
But I don't want to sacrifice our excellence level either.

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

Chicago...

It was so great. I love going on a trip and hanging out. I also love going on a trip and running around, seeing everything.
I guess I just love going on trips.

We spent most of our time with the JH team from Willow Creek. We had a great time. They had planned so much for us: they took us to lunch, let us peek over their shoulders as they put the finishing touches on their weekend, took us out on a boat, with jet skis, wakeboards, etc. (I had jeans on, so I played observer). They ordered Chicago deep dish pizza...which was so delicious that I was sad when I got full, I wanted to eat more...We watched 2 JH services and 1 HS service...We hung out at the JH pastor's house and played darts, watched football and laughed a lot. We went to see Gridiron Gang, we drove through downtown Chicago...It was honestly a blast.

I made pages of notes on things that we could do to improve our ministry. Not even anything super dramatic, just small pieces that they are doing well that I think we could do well as well. (that was meant to be funny, but I think it came across as awkward).

Some Highlights:
* Testing the "Diet Coke & Mentos" phenomenon.
Kurt, Shaun and some of the Willow staff put a bunch (6-10) Mentos in their mouth and poured Diet Coke in too. It shot everywhere. I don't think I have ever laughed so hard with a crowd of people I'd known for 12 hours.

* Driving in the Gay District of Chicago
On the way from Sears Tower to Wrigley Field we took a wrong turn and ended up in Gaysville. No joke: Cocktail, Parrot Bar, Ram, ManHole, GayMart...these are not fictitious names...

* Talking and laughing with Katie until 2:30am
We were in such fun conversation that we didn't even realize what time it was. It was really nice to have someone to relax and hang with.

Okay, now it sounds like I'm writing in a yearbook.
Suffice to say, it was a productive trip.
I'll keep you posted on upcoming changes to our ministry per this trip.

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #6

I know these are supposed to appear on Saturdays, but I figured since I missed it, you probably did too.
Thus, I will post it on Tuesday.

The featured restaurant for today is: Lucille's BBQ, located in Brea, CA...quite near to the Brea Mall (and "The Hat"-the original).

Though I have not been to the South, I like to think that Lucille's is as close to authentic Southern food as you can get in CA.

Let me explain: the beverages are served in little jars...alongside the drinks they serve hot biscuits with apple butter...Then comes the main course. Typically, I order a few side dishes in lieu of a main course...that way I get a small portion of everything I wanted to order. So, with Matt Jensen's full rack of ribs (only about $30, not too bad) comes my sides: macaroni & cheese (which is mouth wateringly delicious), garlic mashed potatoes (also high class), and an appetizer of chicken fingers, or something to make me feel less stupid for ordering 2 side dishes.

Now, I never said this place was low-carb...looking at my order you might wonder if there is anything healthy. I think there are some salads on the menu, but who wants lettuce when you could be eating homemade mac & cheese? Not I.

Honestly. If you have the means, I highly recommend checking it out.

I told Matt Jensen that I would buy him a full rack of ribs for each Harry Potter book he finished. Needless to say, we have not been back since. (That was a year ago!)

Saturday, September 16, 2006

Actual Google Searches That Lead Here: Vol. 2

a) Chicago rules...or at least the Willow JH staff.
b) I don't have much more time, so I just decided to post

Actual Google Searches That Lead Here:
world's ugliest dog
fair Sept OR September "Brian Litrell" -video -welcome -healthy
"kidnapped", nbc, song lyrics
matt hibbard

Thursday, September 14, 2006

It's my kind of town...

So, in 31 minutes we're leaving for Chicago.
I've never been before, so I'm really excited.

I'm traveling with my friend Katie, so I'm excited about that, too.

We're heading out to Willow Creek to check out their Student Ministries programs. My main focus is to watch how they incorporate and empower their weekend leaders.

With our JH ministry at the largest its ever been (at least weekend attendance-wise), we're going to have to step-up the relational side of our weekends.

I'm not sure if I'll get to blog while I'm gone...I'll try...otherwise, be prepared for a boat-load when I return!

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Fall Season--Survivor

Today in the office we started what, I hope, will be a small tradition for the Junior High team.

We sent around the CBS website for Survivor.

Everyone had to choose the winner. Based solely on picture and biography. It was a 'first respond/first choice'.

I chose Sundra.

Matt Hall chose Cao Boi (and then wrote "Giddy Up"). I laughed pretty loud about that...

More to come as the season progresses...

Stolen from Josh Griffin

My friend Josh Griffin has a weekly feature called: "Google Searches that Lead Here"

He helped me out and now I can do the same thing...so here goes.

Actual Google Searches that Lead Here: Vol 1
justin timberlake
kate beckinsale
"practical wedding gifts"
1g12 cab

Google Searches I Wish Lead Here
amazing crossword puzzles
great food reviews
actually kinda funny
runner-up for senior superlative "Most Likely to be Famous"

Monday, September 11, 2006

Crossword Puzzle #3




Across
2. writer/actor of 30 Rock
3. capital of France
7. first anchorwoman
10. Creators of iPOD
11. suri cruise debut magazine
12. Arquette married to Courtney Cox
13. perry of studio 60 on the sunset strip
17. singer wife of Marc Anthony
19. gained his fame from Jackass stunts


Down
1. Frappuccino marketers
4. Jill Munroe--original Charlie's Angel
5. supposed number of "minutes of fame"
6. typical church day
8. amazing race network
9. Disney World state
10. artist, Campbell Soup Cans
14. typical wedding dress color
15. typical rainslicker color
16. Britney Spears' pregnant with her ______ baby
18. peanut butter cups and pieces

RE: Snakes on a Plane

Mat Jensen called me and asked if I would want to meet him at Regal to see this movie.
I said sure.
Cathi, that's how I decided to see it.

I was thinking it might be like a car accident: so bad you couldn't help but watch it.
It actually was like a high school play. Sort of bad, there were some good characters, and overall you weren't super stoked when you left, but not wanting your $10 back.

Also, the "villain" in the movie is named: Eddie Kim!
When I was an intern, HSM had an intern (for a brief time) named Eddie Kim!
So that gave me a laugh every few minutes when they would say "Eddie Kim will stop at nothing to kill you!" or "Eddie Kim is a maniac!"

Oh yes, and then there was that famous Samuel L. Jackson line "I'm tired of these MF snakes on this MF plane!"
I needed to use the restroom pretty much from the start of the movie, but didn't want to miss that line...of course, he didn't say it until the end...I had to hold it for about 2 hours!

Sunday, September 10, 2006

Snakes on a Plane

All in all, not a terrible movie...in the B- movie category.

The acting, by most, was pretty laughable. The dialogue was ridiculous at best.

But Samuel L. Jackson kicked some snake butt...and that made it a pretty decent movie.

I'm not saying you should go see it. In fact, if you have $10 to go see it, give it to me instead. I could use $10.

Saturday, September 09, 2006

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #5

Today's installment of my Favorite Restaurants is from New York City. (Yes, another...and a few more to come).

Serendipity 3 is a delicious eaterie in New York's Upper East Side (East 60th between 2nd & 3rd). Just a block(ish) away from Bloomingdale's.

Now, this is a location most people are aware of because they filmed a movie of the same, starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale. (side note: we were in NYC when they were filming this movie--same day they were filming in the park for an episode of Sex and the City).

So, Serendipity. Outside of movie fame, they boast an amazing Frrrozen Hot Chocolate (or, my favorite Peanut Butter Frrrozen Hot Chocolate)...among a list of other pretty fabulous desserts.

What few people know, is that their Chicken Pot Pie is also worth ordering. The menu is chuck full of sandwiches, burgers and salads...oh, and a foot-long hot dog.

Honestly, eating there is so worth it.

It's a bit pricey, and the service is kinda slow...so make a reservation (FYI, reservations are for meals only, you may not order solely desserts) and plan to make an afternoon of it.

I enjoy the atmosphere and food at Serendipity 3 in New York City. One of my Favorite Restaurants in the World.

tonight.

I had a great time this evening. Despite my sleepiness, Matt Jensen convinced me to hang out with some people.
Here's the fun part about this group: all of them are from different 'eras' in my life and they have now fused together to form a group. Two years ago if you had told me that these 4 would be friends...show up in a car together...and hang out without others to unite the pack, I would have said you were joking!

You know the strange feeling in your dream when you look around and you're standing next to your 3rd grade teacher. And behind him is your neighbor. And then the woman at the checkout counter is your local barista? That was this evening. I just kept thinking how random the group was.

Despite the eclectic group, it was a really great night. And a really late night too.
Technically I should be blogging about a favorite restaurant since it is Saturday right now...but I'll save that for noonish.

Friday, September 08, 2006

I check blogs twice a day...

I was talking to Matt McGill last night while I was checking blogs on the computer in his kitchen nook.

He was teasing me for "catching up on my bloggery". (his words, not mine).

I told him that I like to look twice a day at the blogs of others; once in the morning before work, and once in the evening before bed. I like to see what people have to say...I'm interested.

I also feel like commenting on the blogs of others is a decent way to be a good friend. (Oh, how our world has changed.)

Anyway, Matt says he only checks about once a week.

How often do you check?

Thursday, September 07, 2006

Shaggy is a genius.


I'm not talking about this Shaggy.






I mean Shaggy as in "Mr. Boombastic". For those of you who just began to sing "...very fantastic..." in your head, let me explain. I am not making this statement based on his music.

His pure brilliance lies in his business strategy.

Look, this man turns out one hit single every year or so. And by doing so, he remains famous. He is then free to slip back in to the night with his pockets full of cash. When the funds are low...quick, write another hit!...and top of the charts again!

Honestly, he's been famous (in my world) since I was in 7th grade. (Boombastic)...so 1995ish? Since then he has released 6 songs that I can audibly recognize (of the 150 recorded Shaggy songs on iTunes).

That is 1 hit every 1.8 years (roughly). And as lame as they are, most adults between the ages of 16 and 45 would be able to sing a few lines from "It Wasn't Me" or "Angel" or "Luv Me, Luv Me" (Mr. Lover, Lover)...

I'm telling you, he is arguably as famous as Carlos Santana, (okay, maybe that's a bad example)...but he is pretty famous...and he has not needed to record as many albums...or mass amounts of ridiculous compilation duet CDs.

And furthermore, he has not needed to reinvent himself with culture change. All of his songs sound the same...and nobody minds. They all head-bob along.

All I'm saying is, if I'm ever famous, I'm hoping to get some business (not musical) tips from Shaggy. Because that man is smart.

Wednesday, September 06, 2006

Oh! Guilty Pleasures. (#3)

I almost forgot to divulge a Guilty Pleasure for this Wednesday evening.

My Guilty Pleasure for today is: 80's Television.

I LOVE Growing Pains. And The Cosby Show.

I own Seasons 1 & 2 of The Cosby Show. And Season 1 of Growing Pains.
(Any other seasons would be appropriate gifts for me.)

If I could travel back in time, I would marry Bill Cosby. Or Kirk Cameron (pre-Left Behind days). When he looked like this:




Seriously, who could resist that?

(I just asked Matt Jensen and he said these 1980 marriages are not offensive to him.)

And, FYI, my favorite episode of each show is:

COSBY: "Happy Anniversary"--Season 2, Episode 3. (Dr. Huxtable's parents: Anna and Russell are celebrating their wedding anniversary, the Huxtable Family sings "(Night Time Is) The Right Time" by Ray Charles. Rudy lip synchs "Baby!")

GROWING PAINS: "Reputation"--Season 1, Episode 18. (Mike is studying for a test, decides to cheat by writing answers on the bottom of his shoes. But, while writing it all, he begins to learn. During the test, he knows it all and doesn't need to cheat. He gets an A. Then comes the best line: "I am number 1!"--Since he has a bad reputation, they think he cheated...it's a great storyline!)

Until next week. Watch more classic TV.

The book.


I've been reading this new book...

Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl.

We've decided (or I've asked and I'm hoping Matt agrees) to name our first daughter Blue (probably spelled Blu).

Blu Jensen.

I love it.

Also, Cathi and Josh will recieve copies of this book because they are both big readers...and love most of the same books that I love...if you are an avid reader, what books do you love? **Note: Your answer may qualify you to receive a copy as well.

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

Beautifully written

I'm reading a great book right now. In fact, I stopped mid-chapter and purchased two copies for my friends Josh Peters and Cathi Workman (Surprise, guys! You're gifts will be shipped in 3-5 working days).

Here's the sentence that spurred the Amazon.com visit:

"It was one of those chime-laughs that knifed cleanly through the morning, through the tired muttering of all the other kids, hinting this person had never known embarrassment or awkwardness, that even her grief would be gorgeous in the off-chance she ever experienced it."

I wish I could write like that. Someday. Maybe.

who knew?

Apparently if you want to be a millionaire all you have to do is open your own embroidery business.

Poor Brian spent all day calling and questioning embroidery companies (embroiderists? embroiderers?) to try and have some Wildside shirts embroidered...turns out no one will embroider a darn thing for under $20.

Seriously. I must be in the wrong business.

Who knew?

This is in no way meant as a reference to the Bon Jovi song.

When waiters or cashiers tell me to "have a nice day", do they really mean it? Or is it simply a space filler?

I picked up my to-go order at Wahoo's yesterday, after I had paid, I was trying to balance my food whilst getting my keys and the woman behind the counter said, "Have a nice day".

As I left, I couldn't help but wonder if she only said that because she felt she had to say something, and "goodbye" wasn't appropriate at that moment. She had already said "thank you", but needed more closure. But I doubt very much that she cared about the remainder of my afternoon and evening.

When I worked at Starbucks, I would use the phrase almost as an impulse. I would hand them the change, or their beverage, and say "Thank you! Have a nice day!". I meant it when I said it to the cute guys (grande caramel latte or iced venti quad vanilla latte)...but I would also say it to the crazies (grande chai with 7 pumps of chai, no water, extra foam and in a blue cup or triple venti nonfat, extra whip, mocha) and I'm not 100% sure if I meant it.

I am beginning to feel the same way when people tell me to "drive safely". I'm thinking that you couldn't come up with anything better to say in that moment. I said it tonight. Because I couldn't think of anything better to say.


What other phrases are used as silence-avoiders?

"you should blog about this..."

Here's a list of things people have told me to "blog about" this weekend.
I may expand on a few of these sometime:

1) Wearing the same dress as Johnny Baker's wife at the wedding today.
2) Some kid ruining my nice new shoes at a birthday party.
3) Eating Leigh's daughter's food at the wedding. (He told me I should make it my "favorite restaurant in the world")

Okay so there weren't that many, but I had told Leigh that I was going to blog about this...so I did.

Monday, September 04, 2006

"The Faithful"

Right now on iTunes, they have "Back to School" Playlists.

Seen here

They are divided up by 'cliques', so there is: "Hippies", "Sk8ers", "Greeks"...and a list titled "The Faithful".

Here's the description:
The Faithful can be hard to recognize at first,
but a quick glance at their music collection will
offer up names like Newsboys and Jars of Clay.
Key factors to be aware of: large periods of time
may elapse in conversation without hearing any
foul language, song lyrics are taken especially
to heart, and inspirational quotes are in abundance
(whether in printed form or conversational).

And, to be fair, the playlist is actually pretty good.
Crowder, Relient K, Plumb, Natalie Grant...
Oh, and Brian Littrell (yes, of BSB--Backstreet Boy--fame)

They could have pegged them for Michael W. Smith and Cheri Keaggy, or Amy Grant.

Sunday, September 03, 2006

Crikey! The Croc Hunter died!

Of all the animals that Steve Irwin tackled, who would have thought a stingray would cause his death?

He swam with crocodiles, for crying out loud!

Read more about it here.

Saturday, September 02, 2006

Crossword Puzzle #2



Across
1. Jessica Simpson's new love
2. October holiday
4. Harry Potter's brilliant companion
5. star of Rounders
7. beverage sold exclusively by 7-11
9. author, THE FIRM
10. sings about her "london bridge"
11. one-eyed face in playing cards
14. Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter
15. Steve Carrell on The Office
18. popular search engine
21. Emmy award winner for Best Actor
24. one of the Jacksons
25. popular number puzzles
26. known for difficult crossword puzzles
27. singer or sea mammal
28. new addition to "The View"
29. popular low-carb diet

Down
1. star of The Pelican Brief
3. comedienne Sarah
6. Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje's character on LOST
8. academy award winner for Good-Will Hunting
12. host of Jeopardy
13. villian in Peter Pan
16. late night talk show host o'brien
17. number of Star Wars movies
19. nickname of Britney Spears' husband
20. time machine in Back to the Future
22. scooter or cell phone
23. water made by Coca-Cola

I really like to be taken "to the chorus"

At the risk of sounding like a 15-year old KIIS FM lover, I really dig Justin Timberlake's "SexyBack" song.

The words are rather sketch...but I can't help dancing as he tells me to "get my sexy on".

The album is out on September 12th. All I'm saying is, I'll be at Target sometime that day picking up my copy.

Dear McGills,

I hope you love me and Matt Jensen alot...because here are the shows I hope to watch at your house this season.

Mondays:
9-10 Heroes (NBC)
10-11 Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (NBC)

Tuesdays:
American Idol (FOX--beginning in January)

Wednesdays:
8-8:30 30 Rock (NBC)
9-10 LOST (ABC)
9-10 (Tivo) The Biggest Loser (NBC)
10-11 Kidnapped (NBC)

Thursdays:
8-9 (Tivo) Smallville (CW)
8:30-9 The Office (NBC)
9-10 The OC (FOX)

Sundays:
8-9 The Amazing Race (CBS)
8-8:30 (Tivo) the Simpsons
9-9:30 (Tivo) Family Guy

I think the season begins in two weeks (or so)...see you every night after that.
Your friend,
Alice

My Favorite restaurants in the World #4

In order to enjoy this favorite restaurant, you would have to travel all the way to the other side of the world.
This is not 100% a restaurant, but it is the 'catering' part of a hotel...so there is sitting and food involved.

My favorite restaurant for today is THE KITALE CLUB.

The Kitale Club is the "hotel/resort" we stay at in Kitale, Kenya.

Now, I know what you're thinking...you're thinking I was hurting for restaurant ideas, or just wanting to insert Africa...but you are incorrect.

The Kitale Club happens to make the BEST grilled cheese and french fries ever. Honestly. That is my favorite meal in Kenya. So much so that on my first trip, that is all that I ordered for lunch and dinner for 2 weeks. They also make a mean 'chicken and cheese' sandwich.

If you have the means, I highly recommend checking it out. Oh, and order a Coke. Because Coke from a glass bottle...with grilled cheese and french fries...magnificent!

speaking of amazing photo searches.

This week is National Waffle Week...and I wanted to make an announcement in JH this weekend.
So, naturally, I was looking for a picture of waffles to use for the background.
When I typed waffles in, this is the photo that showed up:



I didn't use it for the announcement, but I sure as heck saved it for future use! He's just so cute...and so excited for his waffles!

do you sudoku?

I do. And I'm totally loving it.

I try to do a few puzzles every night to wind down before bed. I've really found my process...but if I try to finish too quickly, I get all messed up.

Anyway, I know I'm a nerd for blogging about it, but it is seriously a large part of my life these days.

Also...when I typed 'nerd' in to google, this is the first picture that came up:

Friday, September 01, 2006

In about 7 weeks

It will be my birthday.
Just in case you would like to buy me a ridiculously over-priced, beautiful but soon out of style, birthday gift...
Please purchase these...size 10.
Thank you, in advance.