Random - Vol. 8.7

So... last night I turned over 1,000 miles on my car. That's kind of exciting.
I love my new car! It has brought back a part of me that was somehow lost while driving a mini-van. I drive my car like it's a race car... I used to zip around in my neon like it was a race car, it's nice to remember and re-find a part of me that I forgot about. It goes deeper than just that... but I'm still discovering it.
I think I've had a lot of things going on in my personal life in the past 8 years... I know that is a long time period to generalize 'things going on'... but the past 8 years have been extremely difficult and I feel like I've been in the process of trying to find who I am, like everyone in their 20's.
2008 was supposed to be my year of making good decisions. It worked for like a week... and now I've decided that as long as I feel it's the right decision at the time, I should go with it... I have to live with the consequences if it wasn't; it's just the way of life.
I went through a really rough patch this year... the weather had a lot to do with it... I made some really stupid decisions and said/did some really stupid things. I am now living with it... and it sucks, but I've learned from it - and that is the best I can do. I'm sorry to anyone I've hurt or offended along the way; I truly am.

I also went on a date last night... it was interesting. I feel like I'm a cynic when it comes to this whole dating thing. Am I really supposed to believe the things a guy says... or is he just trying to get in my pants?! LOL... sounds silly to say at 26 years old... I guess I've had some bad experiences with guys in the past... just makes me think twice every time a guy says something to me. Maybe it has something to do with the type of guy.
The other thing.... I'm not real sure why I'm even dating; I have little to no interest in having a boyfriend. I'm all for making new friends and getting to know someone better, but in the end I'm not looking for a commitment. I'm not looking for a booty call either, I'm pretty happy being single (for the most part) - a little kissy face never hurt anyone though as kissing is one of my favorite past times

After 3 bottles and probably 3 months, I finally have my flattened Golden Gate bottle (I'll try to post a pic soon)! Now, I have a lot of wine to drink to complete my project... anyone thirsty?
The same night that I gave the ceramic shop my bottle, I also made a wine bottle topper. I've had that for quite some time... and I will post a picture soon... it turned out to be pretty dope.

Back To The 50's is this weekend... I'd love to go, it's been years since I've made it down there. I think the last time I went was with Morgan, we drove his Grand Nash down... pretty sure I have some memory of getting pulled over... ???
Anyhow, I doubt I'll make it down there this year either. Oh well, maybe next year.
Thinking about Back To The 50's makes me think about back in the day when we used to go down to Midway and hang out. The old cars, the friends, Porky's!! What an awesome time of my life that was!! I have such amazing memories of those years

Sonic has opened in MN now! I've been there twice now... and I've decided that the food is not the reason to go there (unless you get the popcorn chicken), but the drinks are beyond dope! I still have so much to try... but I'm working my way through it - I can't wait until there is one closer to home.

My niece is going to be 1 in a month!!!! How does that happen?! I cannot believe it's already been a year. WOW.

Lastly - I've decided to watch the Star Wars movies (I've never seen any of them). I'm going to be adding them to my Netflix Q... the big controversy is what order to watch them in... I think I'm going to watch them in the order they were released; that's the right way, right?

So much more to talk about... but only so much time in a day.

Until next time, America...

Texas Roadhouse - Coon Rapids, MN

I have been to Texas Roadhouse a handful of times and never left disappointed! I would sugest doing call ahead seating, because the wait can be up to 2 hours! Great location, great food, great service! The bread they serve once seated is always warm and melts the cinamon butter perfectly. The ribs are excellent (they have replaced Famous Dave's ribs for my mother!). The steak is cooked to perfection and drinks are on point! I have nothing bad to say about this place! The little song and dace they do every (what seems like) 10 minutes is cute... the first time. They also put you as the center of attention on your birthday and sing you a little song... if you are into that.

Pros: great food, great service

Cons: the song and dance... 2 hour wait w/o call ahead!!

Khan's Mongolian BBQ - Coon Rapids, MN

It may not appear to be the cleanest place, I have a hard time believing that its any worse than your favorite local restaurant. Khan's is a "create-your-own stir-fry", you go through a line, pick the options of meat and veggies you want- then make your own sauce, which they are MORE than willing to help you with if you are a first timer or someone who's been there a million times over. It's hard to rate the food, because you pick your own and they just cook it, but every time I've been there it has all been fresh options! There is a location in Roseville as well, and I would suggest either to a friend! The appetizer they bring out of soup, a chicken wing and a fried won-ton is all very yummy- and they will gladly substitute something for another of something else. Service is nothing to write home about, but it's not supposed to be an upscale fine dining experience; all she does is brings drinks and the check... what more do you need? If you are looking for a new experience, try Khan's...

Pros: create your own... if it's bad, it's probably your fault

Cons: looks can be deceiving.

Rose Garden - Coon Rapids, MN

I've only ordered my food to go, so I can't offer much in the line of service. Every time I go in to order my food I am greeted promptly and my order is taken right away. They go out of the way to repeat the order back to be sure it's correct! Rose Garden is DELICIOUS!!! The Chicken Friend Rice is to die for... best I've ever had! I've had many things on the menu and there is nothing I wouldn't get again. My aunt told me about Rose Garden and I am so happy she did. Don't waste your time going anywhere else... but be sure to go out of your way for Rose Garden. Very Friendly staff, amazing prices, and delicious food! A+++ in my book.

Pros: CHICKEN FRIED RICE!!! Cheap prices & quick service

Cons: NONE

Random - Vol. 8.6

First, update on my bottle situation: so I thought I had the bottles on the way, but now I am not so sure... but I haven't given up- I WILL have my bottle again.
I put a call in to the local liquor store, told him what I wanted and he said "I'll see what I can do." Which didn't seem super promising to me. He called me on Friday and told me he can only get 3 scenes (none of which were the San Fran bottle)- ... so... I told him that I talked to his supplier and she told me they have like 38 cases in stock. He told me that his wine buyer talked to them and those are all they could find. Again, I told him that I talked to her and this is what she told me. So, Trevor (this nice guy at the Liquor store) said he'd call the supplier himself and see what he could find out. He called me back a few minutes later and told me that they are sending him all the scenes they have (I have NO IDEA what that means)- and he would call me late in the week and let me know what they got in.
I have also stopped at a few different liquor stores and asked them to see what they could find as well- so I'm hopeful that someone is going to pull through for me.
I've also ordered some different scenes (Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, and St. Louis Arch- all things/places I've seen)
I'll keep ya posted on what I get...

I went to Costco the other day... they now (for the time being) are selling a 2.5 bag of Dunkin Donuts coffee!! For those who don't know.... DD coffee is pretty much the bombest coffee in all of the world. I've only been lucky enough to have in while on the East Coast, because we don't have DD here in the Midwest! Anyhow- I bought a bag... and I've been enjoying it all weekend!! Blissful.

So, with gas prices rising like they have (which is a blog in itself!) I have been making an effort to drive slower (do you know how much gas you can save by slowing from 80MPH to 70MPH?). I have definitely noticed a difference by slowing down... I fill up a lot less!!
On that same topic- We are going to start car pooling at work... it's going to be DOPE! There is me, Jayne and Bob who all travel up 169N. Jayne lives in Coon Rapids (which is my neighboring city) and Bob lives in St. Micheal. We all have pretty different schedules, so we won't be car pooling the whole way, everyday... but on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jayne will be picking me up and we'll be meeting Bob in Elk River (which is 20 miles from work). Then on Mondays and Wednesdays Bob and I will meet in Elk River and drive up together. It's going to save me a fricken TON in gas!!
On that same topic... my car is breaking :( so driving it as little as possible is the best thing. Pretty sure it's only a short matter of time before my tranny is out completely.
Anyone know someone selling a car for cheap? I'm not sure what I should do- buying a new car sets me WAY back on the moving out thing, part of me wants a cheap cheap car just to drive in the mean time until I can find something better- I'd like to try and sell mine, but is it right to sell a car to someone knowing that it's going to break soon? Ugh... it's just really the last thing I want or need to be dealing with right now. Is there ever a good time for a car to take a shit on you?

Moving on... cause this is not what I want to think about right now.

While I was in Vegas I had the opportunity to try some new foods... I had fried pickles, fried green tomatoes, fried okra (we may have had a fried lunch stop one day!). I also tried gravy for the first time... yeah, yeah- laugh and be shocked. Renee made biscuits and gravy for breakfast, so that was an interesting morning... being that it was my first time having it... I had no idea what to do, or how to eat it. I watched everyone else first... LOL. It was good though, it may have put some hair on my chest!
I feel like there is more new stuff I tried... but I'm drawing a blank

I've had the house to myself for the first time in months... just yesterday into this morning... it's been absolutely amazing. I got so much done, cooked myself a fantastic dinner, had a delicious martini (or two).... bliss.

Last topic... I went to see Indiana Jones yesterday. It was pretty amazing... NOT. I'm honestly speechless on it... A friend of mine said it best "I think that movie just ruined all the others for me!"

So, I hope everyone is having or has had a fantastic Memorial weekend. I was trying to get some sun this weekend... but yesterday was cloudy, and today isn't much better. I'm hoping for an hour or two tomorrow morning before I have to go watch my niece.

Peace out bitches.

Random - Vol. 8.5

First of all... I'll tell you about my bottle, cause a lot of people are asking and have no idea what I'm talking about.
I had this wine bottle... it was frosted, but had a clear window on the front that showed a picture on the back of the bottle. The picture on my bottle was The Golden Gate Bridge. I LOVE the Golden Gate Bridge, I LOVE San Fran, and I LOVE(d) that bottle; it meant the world to me. I was so happy to have found it, and I had it sitting on display since 2004. When I signed up for a community ed class, the description said to bring a wine bottle and they would 'slump' it down into a cheese plate. So i got an idea for an art project using my Golden Gate bottle, which I will spare the details of for this story. I went back yesterday to pick up my bottles (I brought in 4)- and, long story short, she told me that my Golden Gate bottle rolled while it was in the kiln and was ruined. I almost broke down in tears at the store. She told me she has calls out to wine stores in San Fran and is looking to find a new bottle, I think after seeing my reaction, she is going to be looking a lot harder now.
anyhow- I am completely devastated about this... if I had ANY idea this could happen, I would have never left the bottle with them, I would have kept it as it was ... and had it forever. I figured that a ceramics shop would know what they were doing. I'm heartbroken and have been in tears since yesterday. I have looked ALL OVER online and can't find a pic of the bottle, let alone one for purchase. So anyhow... that is the shortened story.
UPDATE:
Here is a link to a picture of my bottle (Thank you Steve!!)

On a separate note: I watched the Season Finale of The Office again last night (because I may have been a bit tipsy the first time ). Holy Crap... what a way to end the season... cliff hangers and all!! I won't say too much.. for those catching up on past seasons or who haven't watched it yet. Twists and turns all over...
Same thoughts on the Desperate Housewives last show... I can't wait for that show to come back, I'm dying to know where they pick back up and what is going on!

I went to Sonic while I was in Vegas... more than once! Bliss.
I also learned that they are in fact building a Sonic right now in Elk River, right on my drive home. I can not wait for that!

I have amazing friends!

I don't know yet if I am moving to Vegas... so please stop asking. I will make sure and let everyone know when I make a decision. The only person who can keep bothering me about it is Renee... cause I know she will anyways

Indiana Jones opens tomorrow... pretty sure I'm stoked to see it.

Have you ever thought about your PIN Number? More specifically, the fact that PIN stands for Personal Identification Number, but then we add the word Number after PIN- so we are really saying Person Identification Number Number.

Apparently I say the word "bag" funny.

I got my crystal martini shaker in the mail when I got home... it's beautiful, and I think I'll use it this weekend, with my measure pour, 1.5 oz. x 2 with a shot of olive juice and 3 olives = the perfect martini.

What does everyone have going on for Memorial Day weekend?

My niece is taking steps now!!!!

This is kind of a lame random blog... I am sorry. I have more thoughts, but they run out of my head once I start typing. I'll try again soon.

Ang's reasons NOT to give plasma...

I feel like writing, though I'm not sure what I want to write about.
I'll tell you about my strange day on Friday.
With thoughts of moving out and moving to a new state, I seem to be overwhelmed with thoughts of how to make money, not only when I move but before I go too.
So this lady that is living with us told me about giving plasma, and that you get paid to do it; sounds perfect for me (a person who hates hospitals, needles, blood, etc.)! I decide why not give it a shot... I'll just pump myself up for it and it won't even phase me. Friday was my first appointment. I go in, and there is all sorts of paperwork and testing crap that I have to go through... no big deal, though it does take quite some time to get through and I'm not a patient person to begin with. Whatever...
So finally they get me into my little 'bed' thing... this guy comes and explains what he is going to do, how it works and what I need to do while it's doing what it does. Basically, I have to pump my fist while the cuff is tight on my arm and I can relax when it is not. After doing this for about 20 or so minutes (and being told this process lasts about an hour total), my arm is starting to get sore and uncomfortable... whatever though, it will be over soon, I thought to myself. The next thing I know, my hand is starting to fall asleep... or so I thought. My eyes are starting to feel strange and heavy, my body gets warm, and my hearing is starting to diminish... I call for the worker and tell him I'm not feeling very good. After he came over I felt comfortable closing my eyes for a second... which turned out to be longer than just a second.
I was having some amazing dream, which for the life of me I cannot remember anything about; I was there though... in the dream... it was so real and so clear.
The next thing I know someone is tapping me on the leg telling me to keep my eyes open. The guy I called over is now holding my arm straight and talking to me, but I still couldn't hear normal, so I probably just looked at him like he was crazy. Once my hearing came back, I asked him "did I pass out?", and he told me that I did. I asked some other questions and I guess had a conversation that I don't recall... I do remember asking if I could finish giving, and he, very nicely, laughed and told me "No!"
When I asked him why he was sitting there and holding my arm down, he told me that when people faint, they naturally want to bend their arms, and while he was calling for help I started to do that and he couldn't get to me in time. Keep in mind that I had a needle stuck in my arm when I bent it!! He told me I might have a bruise there because of it (and boy do I!).
I had to sit there for another 15 or so minutes while they ran this saline solution into my arm, and they were trying to make me eat and drink.. I'm cold as winter, I feel like I'm going to vomit, I'm confused beyond belief, there are tons of people around me along with the other donors staring at me. Finally, after they took the needle out, they took me into this other room so they could monitor me and while my vitals (blood pressure, pulse, etc.) got back to normal. The lady with me told me that I was green when I woke up... might be my favorite color, but it's certainly not a color I want my skin to be, and not something I want to hear when I already feel like I'm going to vomit! About 1-1/2 hours later, I finally don't feel dizzy anymore and my vitals have reached a point where they feel comfortable letting me drive myself home. I'm still cold though, which they said is normal, and to just go home and lay down... try to sleep it off.
I drove home, in a complete daze, changed into my warmest clothes and curled up in my warmest blanket and slept like crap for the next 1-1/2 hours. My head has felt strange all weekend, I've been cold all weekend (maybe because it's been cold and rainy/snowy here?), and my arm is still killing me.
I did get paid for the one time attempt to donate though... but I doubt I'll be going back for more; just doesn't seem worth it to me for the extra money!
Lesson learned.
ugh.

Happy Earth Day

I was thinking on my way to work this morning, as a plastic bag flew over the roof of my car, Why do people litter?
Ironically, the next thing I heard on the radio was something about it being Earth Day today.

I was at Target last night, and I came across a very plain white t-shirt that said My White t-shirt is Green, which basically means it was made with recycled materials. I almost bought it, but was already spending too much money on stuff I didn't necessarily need!
Here is something you may or may not know about me: I am a huge recycler. I get on everybody about it, if I see someone throwing something in the wrong bin.
I don't know that I'd call myself "Green" per se, but I do think about the little things I can do as an individual to help better our Earth.

Nothing annoys me more than seeing people throw cigarette butts out the window of their car, while driving or stopped. I am seriously to the point where I almost get out of my car to scream at them- though with today's world and the right to conceal and carry, I would never do that.
Do any of you smoke? Do you throw your butts out the window? I hope you think twice next time you do.. and maybe the time after that you won't do it at all. Shame on you for doing it to begin with... what gives you the right to help destroy our planet?
I seriously hope none of you litter... that is so 10 years ago! IF you do... can you give me one good reason why? ...didn't think so.

I despise people who litter.

Have any of you taken steps to try and become green? I'd like to hear about it, if so. I know that one person won't do much on their own, but chances are if you are doing green things you'll probably talk to your friends about it... causing them to do one little green thing. If we all do one thing, it will eventually have some effect, right?
I don't know how to have an effect on everyone, nor do I expect to, but I hope that those reading this will take my words and try to do something to help. Our planet isn't going to fix itself and we've done horrible things to it; why not pitch in and try to help clean it up?
I'm not saying donate money, I'm not saying go 100% green and change your life completely...but, you could be saving money by changing to those new light bulbs, you could help generate less waste by taking advantage of paperless billing options, and do you really need to take that extra 5 minutes in the shower to see how your shower head can work for you?

I'm just saying think about it... be aware of the things you do.

Today is Earth Day - The sun is out in Princeton, MN - It's a beautiful Earth we have been blessed with, don't you want your children and grandchildren to be able to enjoy it?

Maybe start by picking up a piece of litter today... it's a small step, but it's a step in the right direction.

Thank you for your time.
~Ang

something to share

As some of you know, I was in New York City this past weekend. I wanted to make it a point to stop by ’ground zero’ to see how it’s changed in the 2 years since I’d last been there.

I didn’t take any pictures, as I feel it’s just something you need to see for yourself. Pictures don’t come close to showing the emotion surrounding the area. However, I did find some info online about how they are rebuilding and what the memorial will look like. It’s a pretty neat site: Check it Out

Random - Vol. 8.4

I have a few things on my mind today-

First: Why are so many things in America called French, like French Vanilla, French Silk Pie, French Toast, French Kiss, etc.?
In France, what do they call what we call French Toast? Maybe it’s pancakes to them.
What do they call an open mouth tongue kiss? An American kiss...?
What’s wrong with American Vanilla? Is there a Mexican Silk Pie?

It’s kind of like the whole Canadian Bacon thing... what do the fine folks in Canada call what we know as Canadian bacon? For that matter, what do they call bacon? (loopy, can you help me out on this one?)

Second thing on my mind: The Shocker, who invented it? And really... if someone told you that they invented it; would you believe them?

Third: Spring; the season. It should be upon us, but it’s not. I’m not going to bitch too much here, BUT... I’ve been seeing my favorite signs of spring lately: the motorcycles, the old classic cars, the birds, etc. but I’m not seeing spring itself! This past weekend was wonderful weather, but how much are we supposed to take? It’s been snowing here all morning here... tomorrow is April! Ugh... I just really need it to be done.

Fourth and final: April Fools Day- know of any good pranks? We’ve got something cooked up here at the office for one of my co-workers; I can’t wait! Just wondering if people still get into this day and if so, what it is that you do! Spill...

Random - Vol. 8.3

So as you may or may not know by now, I am totally in love with my niece. CHECK OUT HER PICTURES

So I have a cute short story from Easter- I pretty much kiss her as often as possible; I was holding her (because I do that as often as possible too) and went to give her a kiss on the cheek and she leaned her head into me and wanted to cuddle!! So we are just standing in the middle of the room and my adorable niece has her head resting on my face! Almost made me cry!! It was the sweetest thing ever and really made me believe that she loves her auntie tons.

Things like that are going to make it hard for me to leave this state…

So I’ve also posted a video of her crawling, because she is doing that now. So sweet! She pulls herself up on everything and always wants to stand up, so she’ll be walking in no time at all. She can even stand on her own for quite some time… I was walking at 8 months so if she wants to grow up to be like her auntie, she better get a move on.

I love taking pictures of her, she is a great subject. Even when she is cranky she still looks so beautiful!

OMG- I’m bragging way too much. I’ll stop now. Sorry.

Let’s see… ok, here is something:

I was reading a blog the other day, Ann’s blog, she was asking for funny stories from when you were a baby. I couldn’t remember any and still can’t. It got me thinking though… what is my earliest memory? I remember one time when I was about 5 and I was eating a PB&J, all of the sudden I just didn’t like it anymore! I didn’t have another for YEARS!! I don’t know what happened to make me try one again, but I love them now.

I also remember one time getting ready to play kickball in the street (which I’d love to get a group together and play sometime!!), the ball was in the bushes, so I went to grab it and it had a slug on it! It was so gross. That was at the first house we lived in, so I’m pretty sure I was 5 or younger when that happened.

I look at pictures from when I was a kid and try to remember those things and re-live those times, but I always come up short.

What is your earliest memory and how old were you?

Isn’t it funny how we can’t remember what we did last Thursday, but we can remember things like a slug on a ball from age 5?!

It’s interesting to me how we grow up and our tastes change and our way of thinking changes. I grew up in a home where dinner was either meat and potatoes or dinner out.

My mom has always been a very picky eater, and when I was a kid I was very much the same way. Now, I’m 26 and I love food more than anything (and it’s beginning to show!!).

I was making an artichoke dip for Easter and my mom, always in my face, comes over and says "what are those?" so I hand her an artichoke and say "here, try it, it’s an artichoke". She automatically gets this disgusting look on her faces and hesitantly asks "what does it taste like?" I basically tell her to just ’shut-up and try it, it won’t kill you!’. So she very slowly puts it in her mouth and makes the ugliest face I’ve ever seen a person make!! Like she is about to die having put this thing in her mouth, she gives it her best open mouth chew and rushes to the sink for a drink of water.

I give her credit though, she actually tried something! She’ll be 50 this year and she has never tried a pickle or an olive and still eats salad with no dressing. I am so glad I’ve ventured out of my comfort zone and tried new foods. It’s amazing the things out there that I could have missed!

As much as I’d love to go back to the days where you have no worries, I rather enjoy learning about life and having new experiences. Granted some of those ’life lessons’ suck, it is fun to think back and realize how you’ve changed.

Good news! It’s been a year now since I’ve had even a puff of a cigarette!! I’ve been a non-smoker, by my definition, since November 2004… but I’d have one every now and again when I’d have a beer or something. I considered myself a non-smoker the whole time though; maybe ’social smoker’ is a better name for it. Anyhow- it’s been a full year now, since I’ve had even a drag, and I’ve had many beers in that year! I’d say I’m official now

That’s pretty much all I have to say today.

Diamonds are to girls as dog is to man

Attempt 2…

I tried to write this blog last night; I needed to look something up, so I hit the 'new tab' button… or so I thought. I pushed 'home' and went to my homepage. In a panic, I hit the 'back' and my entire blog was G-O-N-E, gone.

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So- this blog serves 2 purposes. First, it is a place for me to sort out my thoughts about my diamonds. Second, it's a common ground for people to stay informed- I've been talking about my diamonds to several people for weeks now, and here I can update everyone without having to type the story a million times (or so I hope).

I'll first start by recapping what is going on, for those who haven't been told and for those who forgot (cause I know you care).

It was mid-December, my mom comes to me and says "you're birthday is coming up, do you want to wear my earrings for it?" So, sure, why not? I say "Yep!" Pretty little things they are; roughly 1cttw., (1 carat total weight, which is approx. a half carat each) round, perfectly cleaned and shiny studs. So I wear them for a few weeks… then after the holidays, I find myself starting to become attached so I ask her if she wants them back, she said "nah, keep them for awhile longer, I'm in no hurry to have them back." Fine by me.

Then, one random day out of the blue, she comes to me and says "ok, I want them back now." I could have cried.

So now… I must own my own.

I've been browsing the web to get a rough estimate of how much I'm looking to spend and just see what my overall options are.

Diamonds are not cheap; they are so darn pretty though!

I finally make the decision to go look at some in person and learn more about them. I see a commercial for The Jewelry Exchange and they are advertising $399.99 for 1 cttw. diamond studs. That is cheap, and appears to be a great deal- we will see. I haven't been there yet, but online they list those studs as being SI1-I1 clarity and color H-J (more on what that means later). I hope to make it there sometime this weekend to see what they have to offer. I'll keep you posted.

As I continue to think more and more about these diamonds that I don't own- I remember that I have a loose diamond, kind of. A few years back when I was working at the mall, I found a diamond earring in the store, and I kept it (don't tell!!). I took it to my friend the jeweler, and he told me it was surely real… so I hung onto it all these years.

Here are my thoughts: with that diamond I figure I can take it in and have someone find a matching diamond and set them both in a setting of my choice OR I can take it in and trade up for a pair OR whatever else the stores tell me they can do.

Let me tell a bit about my pretty little friend: it's a round cut, I've been told it's roughly .50 carat, VS1-SI1 clarity (very slightly included-slightly included), G-H color (near colorless). Overall, for a found diamond, that is a pretty good find!

1. So I take it to the first place, ask them how much to get another diamond and to have them both set; $2100.00!! OMG, and the settings were only $150 of the cost!

NEXT…

2. This place can't order in another diamond, but can give me $439 for mine that I can use towards a purchase at their store. Not a bad deal, but let's keep asking around.

3. Next place tells me that can't do jack for me- assholes.

4. This store tells me they can order in a diamond for roughly $800 and set the pair for an additional $200, so $1000 total for a round pair of 1 cttw. diamond studs, about average. The lady that helped me was a bitch though, so I won't be giving her my business.

5. Upstairs in the mall I walk into this store and this guy looks familiar to me, so I ask him if he works downstairs at the other jewelry store (option 2). I remembered him from this past Christmas when I went into buy my mom and sister-in-law a necklace, he kept doing Borat impressions, so his face stuck with me. Anyhow- "Yes, I work at both stores, we're owned by the same company" he says. So, figuring that he will probably tell me the same as his other store, I figure it's worth a shot anyhow... maybe flirt him up a bit and see what I can get done! His jeweler tells me they can give me $500 for my diamond to apply towards a purchase at their store. Very Nice! He also told me he might be able to help me a little with the price when I am ready to buy

Here is my want: Ideally, I want a pair of Princess Cut Diamond studs, roughly 1 cttw., my diamond is round- I would certainly take a pair of round studs, but if I have a choice, I'm going Princess (which is square). I can get a pair of Princess Cut .75 cttw. for $1099.00 from both places that offer me the money to apply towards a purchase. That means I'd be paying about $600 for my earrings… not a bad deal, imo, especially with the check I am expecting from our loverly president who wants to boost the economy.

So I still have The Jewelry Exchange to check out, maybe they can do something for me… if not, I have some serious decisions to make. Should I really be spending money on earrings I don't need when I have thoughts of moving out of state?! I could always make my diamond into a pendant necklace…

So much to think about!

I'll keep you posted on what I find out from The Jewelry Exchange, and what, if anything, I end up doing.

I'm certainly taking donations though… you can paypal me, all funds will be applied to my beautiful diamond studs, and I promise to send you pictures of them once I have them!!

Peace Out.

(I haven't re-read this, so I apologize if it's confusing or doesn't make sense.)

Life... my how we change as the years pass

I went to see my niece today. That little girl can brighten my day, anytime. I'm so thankful for her.

As the days pass in my life I grow to be more and more unhappy. It's pretty much a bunch of little things that keep adding up... and they seem bigger and bigger with time.
I think a lot of it centers around growing up and going through so many changes in my life.. it's just hard to adjust. I don't know.

My mother drives me nuts... and it's not just the mother/daughter relationship that bothers me. It's the fact that she never listens, she complains about things that she has the ability to change but is too lazy to change them, and things of that sort. I have the best situation in living with her, but is it really worth my happiness to remain in this situation? I want my own kitchen, I want my own things, I want to have a life that is mine and I can come and go as I please without having to feel like I need to tell her where I am. The problem... I don't have an interest in living with any of my friends. I also can't afford to live alone, places are so damn expensive and while I could potentially afford it, I would have to change my lifestyle dramatically, and I'm just not sure that I am ready for that.

I have a friend who lives out of state- she has offered to let me stay with her until I get on my feet on the ground. That is such an amazing offer, and I feel so lucky and blessed to have someone like that in my life. There is such a strong desire I have to just jump on the offer and deal with the aftermath later, but I am trying to use my head and actually think about it before I do anything.
The one thing that keeps weighing on my is my niece. I love that little girl to death, and the thought of moving away from her makes me so sad. I cried myself to sleep the other night over it. The flip side of that is I can't live my life for her. I can't let friends or family stop me from getting out of this state and doing new things; especially being so unhappy in this dumb ass state.

I feel very bored in my life, right now. I get like this sometimes, and it usually passes... I hope this does as well.

The other part of my life that sucks... and I am going to remain brief on this topic... but my current relationship status. I am in love with a guy, someone I am not with. I have feelings for some other guys... some really fucking great guys, but I feel it's so unfair of me to try and pursue something with them when my heart isn't in it right now. I want to move on and move forward, but I really don't know how. I know that relationships are a part of life and you live and learn, but learning is hard.

anyhow- I'm sure there is more going on in my little head... but I needed to get that much out for now.

On an entirely different note:
I went to this nightclub last night (The Rock in Maplewood)- and for the past year or maybe less the entire state of MN has been non-smoking. Well, last week there was this thing on the news that there was a loophole in the smoking ban, and that it allows smoking indoors if it is for "the arts", as in plays and such. So I guess The Rock has made changes to accommodate to this loophole. They were selling buttons for $1 to smokers that said "ACT NOW" and pretty much meant that you were part of the 'show' and could smoke. The bartenders were people 'acting' as bartenders, the bouncers... actors, the music... an act. I think you get the point, and as people attending the show, we are bystanders in the 'show', therefore, we can smoke.
It made my night last night absolutely miserable! so many people were smoking- my frickin lungs hurt so bad when I woke up this morning. It had everyone upset last night... all the non-smokers anyhow.
I'm pretty sure Kristi is going to be writing a blog about it and posting some things she collected last night... http://www.sweetsauer.com/kristis_bliggitty_blog/2008/03/smoking-ban-a-f.html

That was another thing I needed to get off my chest...

This blog probably sucks for most of you to read, and I am not looking for a pity party on my behalf... I just needed to vent a little bit.
Thanks for reading, and sorry for being so negative- sometimes life is that way.

Random - Vol. 8.2

I've wanted to write a blog for some time now. In my daily life I always come across things that I feel I need to blog about... when it comes time to actually write, I can never remember what it is I want to talk about. So this blog is going to be random... which usually turns out pretty neat, but sometimes it's lame.com.

I'll start by explaining something to everyone; I have started knitting and posting pictures for everyone to see what I am doing. I am making this bag (similar to a tote bag); I had to knit the body of the bag and 2 handles, which I had to sew onto the body (obviously). Since this is a knitting class for beginners they realize that mistakes will be made- so the last step of this bag is to felt it. Felting a bag is where you put it in the washer in HOT water (the bag is made of wool or a wool blend yarn), so it shrinks and becomes stronger, so you can carry things and also hides your mistakes; it also makes the bag kind of ... 'furry'... it looks pretty neat in the end. Before and After Shots Here!
So last night was the felting process... and what a process it was! You have to check the bag every 5 minutes until it gets to the size you want. It took about 30-45 minutes for my bag to get to the size I want... and I'm still not sure that I'm happy with it; I can do it more and it will shrink more- we'll see how it looks after work today. So when I post pictures of the finished bag... just pay attention to the fact that you can no longer see the stitches and the bag has shrunk...
My last knitting class is tomorrow night (Tuesday), and we are all finished with our bags (fast learners), so tomorrow's class will be to show off the finished bags and ask any questions we have for the teacher. She told us all to get a new pattern and try to get started on something new so that she can help us with that. I have a pattern for a hat (SO EXCITED TO MAKE IT!!!), that basically uses all the skills I have learned but looks super complicated to make! I'll for sure be posting pics of that... it's gonna be so dope (if I do it right.. lol)! I need a couple days break from knitting though... all my friends are starting to call me 'needles'

I went to Duluth this weekend for my cousin's 21^st birthday. I had a good time, but I also remembered why I stopped going to house parties! LOL- or maybe it's just that I am not in the 'college kid' frame of mind! Anyhow the point of this is not to tell you about my weekend, but to tell you about something that I discovered. We were playing with a home karaoke thing (you hook up a microphone full of songs to the TV and just sing your heart out)… well, I was drunk, and I love to sing anyhow… so I had a blast with that! I sang Britney Spears' "Salve for you"… and she does this 'panting' type sound in that song… and this morning on the radio I heard her new song "Break the Ice" and she does the same thing. I'm beginning to wonder if she is part dog!? Just an observation.

Here is the thing… back when Britney first blew up (I was in High School), I fell in love with her… so it's hard for me to watch her fall apart. I still love her and probably always will- a talent show my senior year had me dressed as her lip-syncing to "…Baby One More Time" (I bet you'd all like to see pictures of that; I'll see what I can find!). It was so much fun; I used to get a bit obnoxious when dancing like her, so the talent show was a perfect place to show that off! (Wow, a whole paragraph on Britney!!)

BTW- I pretty much LOVE every song on my play list, if you haven't taken some time to look at my songs… do that now. It's a pretty good look into me and what I'm into. I didn't add everything I like (left out some good rap {I could make an entire play list of my favorite rap} and rock that I like), but it's a pretty neat mix; all great music!

On the subject of music- I've added a song to my play list called "Pig" by Dave Mathews Band- listen to it. Even if you are not a fan of DMB, it is probably the single most beautiful song I've ever heard. After you listen- check out the lyrics (or while you listen): Click Here to see the Lyrics

The song moves me; I want you to be moved to.

Pretty sure I need to make a dentist appointment.

I was having a conversation last night and I gots to thinkin'- Does anyone know what is on the other side of the world… directly across from wherever you are?!

Click here to find out!!

I thought that was a pretty neat tool!

How long is too long for a blog?

Well folks... I should wrap this up now- I'm open to blogging ideas though, so if you have any suggestions... drop them in a comment!

Word to my bitches and my hoes!

Koyi Sushi - Minneapolis, MN

I had a fine experience at Koyi Sushi. The sushi was fresh and delicious and the service was up to par. My companion ordered the Chilean Sea Bass and our waitress came back and told us that they were out, on a Thursday night- that was disappointing on many levels. They have some creative rolls, and while I didn't try them all, they sound wonderful. I generally see a full restaurant as a good thing, Koyi Sushi was pretty empty so I was a bit concerned; I figured being a Thursday night had something to do with that. All in all, if you are near Koyi, stop in and try a roll or two- I don't really see a reason to go out of your way to try Koyi Sushi as there are many other sushi restaurants to try first, but don't put it off your list if you are looking for a new sushi experience in Minneapolis.

Pros: great location in Minneapolis, good sushi

French Meadow Bakery - Uptown, MN

I have never walked through the door of this place and seen it empty! The line generally is to the door, which can't be bad! You walk in, wait in a line to order, and they bring your order to your table- if you can't find a table they will generally take time time to help you find something. This is not a place to go and take your time, it's a place to go in, eat, and get out. They serve excellent and delicious breakfast and also lunch- i have never been in during dinner hours. If you are in the uptown area, stop in for a bite or a bowl of soup on a cold winter day!!

Pros: fast, in and out, service. great food, healthy food!

Cons: it's a full house, if you don't like busy, don't go here!

Hell's Kitchen - Minneapolis, MN

I was apprehensive to try Hell's Kitchen- I had heard that the food was all spicy and hot (hence the name "Hell's Kitchen"). I gave it a shot anyways and was pleasantly surprised! Strange menu items make it fun and interesting and the food tastes great! They have homemade peanut butter too- yummy!! There was a wait to get a table, which was fine with me, generally thats a good thing :) Overall, I have nothing but great things to say about this restaurant. If you are in downtown Minneapolis, I highly suggest you drop by Hell's Kitchen and have a bite!

Pros: Fast service, yummy breakfast

Cons: a wait, but worth it.

Random - Vol. 8.1

I'm bored, my head hurts off and on, and i am STRUGGLING to keep my damn eyes open.
I am writing this blog just for the sake of writing; I AM BORED!! Bare with me... this might be pretty boring.

So first thing on my mind as i write this: I notice to the left of this input window that my blogs have had 51 views this week and 10 comments (a few of those were me replying to other peoples comments)- what I don't get is why i don't have 51 comments. LOL... i know that makes me sound like a comment whore, and while I do love to get comments, I don't require them! My point here is: why doesn't everyone comment that reads it? Especially the blog i posted this week, the camel toe one... that is funny shit- when people see it they should stop and say that they liked it, or that they didn't, or anything. I can understand someone not posting a comment if i posted a blog asking all of life's random questions, because they might not know the answers....
i post comments to almost all blogs i read, just to let someone know that i read it and what i thought about it. I don't know... I guess I'm just 'different', but I guess you already know that; don't you?

Here is the explanation of why I'm so bored this week and why I will be bored a few days next week. My company, Matrix Manufacturing, is owned by 2 people- My uncle is one of them and my aunt is the other... but they are not married. My Aunt Jayne is the V.P. and her brother-in-law, Chuck, is the President. Then we have me and my cousin (who is Chuck's son) that also work in the office- and of course there is Bob, who is no relation whatsoever. Needless to say there is a lot of nepotism going on around here, and Bob likes to point it out as often as possible!
anyhow~ I am pretty much Jayne's 'assistant', I have taken on much of her workload, lots of the day to day stuff plus a lot of other responsibility outside of her. We take care of administrative things and the boys take care of sales, customer service, design, etc.- Matrix is a small company, so we all wear a lot of hats, I do things to help everyone and sometimes I do their jobs completely.

The reason I am bored out of my mind is because Jayne left for a week long vacation yesterday and we are entering our 'slower' season of the year. A lot of the work I do comes from her, whether it's being passed down to me or assigned from scratch; with her being gone I am not getting those things on my desk. Things are coming from others to her and stopping there (which also means I will be busy trying to catch up once she gets caught up). It's kind of like a mini vacation for me too, because I don't have a lot of work to do, but i still have to be here (Thank God for the Internets!), AND i will feel behind once she is back because i will then get her backlog.
I have work to do... some, not a lot, but I am trying to spread it out so that I don't have to spend full days being bored out of my mind. If i focused on all the work on my desk right this second, I could have most of it done by the end of today, and I leave here in just under 2 hours. Like I said, it's also our slower season right now... so even if Jayne were here, I would still have time to play, but i'm sure I'd find projects to work on that have been neglected over the past year (I just don't know what those are right now).
So.. that's why I'm bored, in a nutshell.

I've been really bad about going to the gym lately. I kind of stopped going just after my birthday... busy life and all. Now, i really want to start getting back into it and i just can't find the motivation! I even walked out of the house today w/o my gym bag (though i had full intention of going after work), and i realized it at the bottom of my driveway and just kept going anyways! I went once this week and once last week... and those couple times were very lousy workouts! it makes me angry at myself!

Why am I tired, you ask? Last night I met up with the most amazing guys friends near me- we went to "All-You-Can-Eat Crab Legs" (YUM-O!!), no big deal, I shouldn't be tired from that... well I had a few glasses of wine and 5 plates of crab legs- i probably should have stopped at 2 glasses of wine and 4 plates of crab legs. Not only was a full as all hell when i went to bed, i was dehydrated like a mug! So i get to bed, at a pretty normal time and get to sleep fairly quick- but i kept waking up with the worst cotton mouth known to man (even when i used to smoke it never got that bad!!), so i'd get up and drink a huge glass of water; does anybody know what water does after you drink it? it makes you pee! so i was up peeing every 5 fucking minutes- plus tossing and turning for no good reason (i'd like to blame it on the wine, but i ususally sleep pretty well when i've been drinking). Then I have also been coming in the office a half hour early since Jayne is gone, so that is 30 minutes of lost sleep on top of not sleeping well to begin with!

Wow- i'm kind of bitching a lot in this blog, aren't I? can you tell i'm bored. I'm so bored I may even go back and capitalize all my words and letters that need it- and I really give no crap about doing that!! so bored, I've added color to this blog!!!

It's snowing here today... has been all day! I hate snow, just fyi. I also hate microsoft, so much in fact that I am not giving them the honor of using a capital M in their name! (this is a nasty color combo)

speaking of nasty... and I do mean NASTY- have you guys seen the video "2 girls 1 cup"? Let me just say this- DONT WATCH IT! and if you do (www.2girls1cup.com), just remember that I warned you AND know that you are about to watch 2 girls get freaky with poo! yes... i said it... POO (aka POOP, shit, turds, etc.), so I stress again... Don't watch it!

Ok... i should get a few more things done today, or at least get my Quill order placed- that can take some time if i need to find things!

As always, thanks for reading.. and don't forget to leave a comment ;)

One love and peace out my bitches!

P.S. i need ideas to blog about... my next blog MIGHT be about all the dope changes myspace is making, so i'll be looking for feedback on that one once posted.

Camel What?!

almost pissed myself when i opened this one!!!

Thought i would share it with all of you, my loyal readers!

White Christmas

For all my friends who won't be having a White Christmas this year... and who desperately want to... This blog is for you.
Not much to say... just want to share what I woke up to this morning. I have never been a huge fan of winter, snow, and cold- and I seem to dislike it more as I get older. The one thing I do love is waking up to the tree branches covered with snow/ice... it make for such a pretty sight all around!

I don't know if these pictures do justice to how pretty it is this morning... but at least you get an idea:

here are a couple more-














They were just taken from out my back door... so not super exciting, but still.

Merry Christmas!!

Random Thoughts

Random Thoughts Blog...
~Having my niece in my life makes me so happy... I want to move out of state, but I can't imagine leaving her and not watching her grow up.
*I've been super slackin on taking pictures lately.  This makes me very upset!  I have had my camera with me from Wednesday night up until this morning... and I only took a few pictures on Saturday at lunch with my family.  I don't know whats wrong with me.
-I drank a lot this weekend.
~Without getting too in depth here... since none of you really know about my 'love life'- I am recently out of a relationship, a (roughly) 3 year relationship... I don't feel I am ready to move on completely.. but I have been thinking a lot about dating.  What are the rules of dating now?  It is a very overwhelming thing for me to think about...
*In the past week- I have sold over $200.00 worth of things on eBay.. now I can afford to buy Christmas presents, get tabs for my van, and pay my insurance that is due mid-December.
-Speaking of Christmas... I am outraged by the lack of the word "Christmas" this year.  I'm sure you know that "Happy Holidays" is becoming the way of life and not "Merry Christmas" anymore.  Did you also know that stores are selling Family Trees and Wonder Trees instead of CHRISTMAS TREES?  We, as Americans, really need to do something about this; but how?  My first step is not buying a tree from a store that calls it anything other than what it is... the ironic part of that is: people who don't celebrate Christmas have no need for a Christmas Tree- so why change the name of it?  If you don't need one... don't buy one.. don't change the name so someone driving by feels better about themselves- FUCK THEM!
This is America- this nation was founded by people who celebrate Christmas... we don't go into other countries and religions telling them to change the name of things they celebrate.
My cousin said it best on Thanksgiving- (this is not a exact quote) "when will they start calling a Menorah a 'Seven branched candle stick holder'?"
I have NOTHING against other races and/or religions but please... Do your part and make sure you salute people with the holiday you celebrate- not just what this nation is telling you to say.
(I actually just received an email on the same topic as I was typing this...)
~I'm pretty sure the gym is going to be super busy after work today... with all the people thinking they want to lose weight for the holidays, but then realize after the New Year that they are too lazy to keep up with it. 
*I'm just noticing as I type this blog that I have written 64 blogs since I signed up for myspace... Have you read them all?
-I haven't sent in my BB tape yet- I'm scared.  I will probably record it tonight and hopefully mail it out tomorrow (they require a lot of stuff along with the tape and application!)
~I was laying bed last night thinking about something I wanted to blog about... I can't remember what that was.  I've had this blog open since 7:30 this morning trying to remember... I give up; it's now 10:30. 

Last but not least...
WORD BITCHES!

Moe's - Mounds View, MN

From the owner of Mayslacks in NE Minneapolis to owner of Moe's- where the famous Mayslacks roast beef sandwich has worked it's way out of NE Minneapolis and into the hearts of many more people! The first time I went to Moe's I ordered their version of the Jucy Lucy (a buger with cheese stuffed on the inside), the burger came out and was way undercooked... still very red! they took it back and cooked it for me and it tasted fine - but i didn't have much of an appitite after seeing it the first time. I've been there a few times since, and the food is good, but nothing worth hyping up too much. Pretty average sports bar food. However, if you have never been to mayslacks or never had a mayslacks roast beef sandwich, you must head to Moe's! The dark rye bun is piled HIGH with garlic roast beef- it's hard to even pick it up and take a bite! Nothing but goodness entering your belly!

Pros: Mayslacks Roast Beef! Lots of TV's

Cons: just another sports bar...

Taiko Sushi Bar - Moundsview, MN

In all honestly, I was a bit leery of sushi in moundsview area... but I thought I'd give it a chance. One night a few weeks ago I was craving sushi, I found Taiko on citysearch and it was the closest sushi to my house. I drove down, not knowing exactly where the place was and found it - barely. The place is not very well lit and there was a lot of construction type vehicles around the place; it looked closed! Well, there were cars in the parking lot, so I went in; I checked out the menu and ordered a rainbow roll and some Nigiri (yellowtail, salmon, and tuna). Once I got home and opened my sushi box I was so excited to eat it... and no longer thinking about the fact that this place was so unappealing to the eye (from the outside). The fish was fresh ad huge, the rice was perfect, and they were nice enough to supply me with a to-go cup of soy sauce and chopsticks. YUM!! I would HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone! I went back just this weekend cause I figured I should try it again before I wrote a review~ This time I wanted to experience the dine in option. I sat right up at the sushi bar, where I like to be! It was just me and a couple sitting at the bar and several of the tables were filled with people. I took a look at the menu again and decided to try a California roll, a tuna maki, and a piece of yellowtail nigiri. Ideally I like to have everything on one plate in front of me, cause I like to mix and match the crunch of the Cali roll with the other options on my plate. They brought out the California roll first, followed by the tuna maki and lastly the piece of yellowtail. All of it just as fresh and wonderful as my first visit! Some other details worth mentioning: an order of nigiri is one piece (not 2) for $2.00, the only 'to-go' menu they have is by email and it's not the full menu as in the restaurant. Very friendly and talkative staff. huge bites of FRESH fish! Give it a shot!!!

Pros: location outside of the city with very good fresh food

Cons: poorly lit outside

Thanks for the Memories...

Hi Loyal Readers... as a warning- this blog is going back in time.  Might not make sense to some of you... but feel free to read and enjoy anyhow; some of my thoughts may cause you reflect on times in your life. 
I have been dealing with some drama for the past couple of months now- and recently it has caused me to think back to high school times.  My first thought is the gossip and drama, but I am quickly forced to think about all the good things High School had to offer: the boys, the fun, the lack of responsibility!
Who remembers John Kelly's El Camino?  I was so in love with that car that I actually ASKED if I could wash it for him... and he let me too (I just wanted to drive around in it!).  Remember sitting in Hanson's class and doing so much of nothing, but always working on Yearbook?!

My first vehicle was a Bronco II- I LOVED that truck, I made so many great memories in there!!  Before I could drive though... we used to ride our bikes EVERYWHERE... that is what's so great about Nordeast- it's such a small community in a big city!  The summer of 1997 was the greatest summer of my life- I know a few will remember that with me!  Jen- didn't we make a list of the wonderful things about that summer; any chance you still have that?

One of my favorite things about HS was the football games... man oh man, what a great time!  Painting the Rock before hand... and going to North, South, Henry and whatever other schools to paint their rocks as well!  Are you kidding me... SO MUCH FUN!  anyone want to paint the rock this weekend?  Class of 2000... LOL
Having zero bills to pay, and your biggest concern was getting a couple of bucks to put some gas in your car (and back then {haha, like it was that long ago} a couple bucks got you a couple gallons of gas).  Going to parties and having crushes on all the cute boys (or in my case, the boys who weren't scared of my BIGGER older brother).  Walking down the alley to DQ for lunch, and getting PHAT hook ups at DQ at night, when all your friends were working!  Going to Midway on the weekends and having those DELICIOUS shakes from Porky's!

We used to have so much fun doing a whole lot of nothing... growing up sucks.

I have such wonderful memories of high school and while the drama was always there, it just gave you something to talk about- which was fine by me.  It's funny to me that there is always drama between people, no matter the age.
I just thought I would post this for those who remember the fun HS brought to them.  I thought it was a blog worth sharing.  Feel free to post your own thoughts/comments/memories!!!
On a real note: I am all drama'd out... no more of it for me.
AND... it's windy as all get out here today.... I might blow away on my drive home!

Transformers

I leave my house at 5:45 in the morning to embark on a 45 minute drive to Princeton, MN, where I work.  Have you ever been on the road at that time of day?  The roads are filled with half sleeping people (myself included) and truck drivers who just LOVE to drive in the left lane! 
Yesterday, for the first time in my life, I had - what I am assigning the name of - "Transformer Disorder".  What is Transformer Disorder you ask?  Believe it or not, it's quite simple and very easy to explain....
Transformer Disorder is a happening of the mind - it's caused by big semi trucks riding your ass as you are approaching a red light. 
Symptoms: seeing this huge semi trucks front end in your rear view mirror and finding it too look oddly familiar.  Then you find your thoughts and emotions quickly changing to "What if that huge semi truck stands up and transforms into a Autobot!?" and "Since it's riding my ass, maybe it's not an Autobot... maybe its a Decepticon and I'm about to get my ass crushed!"
"Where is Sam Witwicky when you need him?!"
Transformer Disorder is not a subject to be taken lightly- if you or any of your friends (ME!) are having symptoms seek help ASAP or your life could be over before you can say Sam Witwicky! 

This blog has been written and dedicated to Jeff Janas, my good buddy who I feel has been stressed as of late (could be wrong); this is my lame.com attempt to make him laugh, though I really did have these thoughts.
All the italicized words are for Steve- my italic buddy.

Pacific Cafe - San Francisco, CA

I have NOTHING but good things to say about The Pacific Cafe! Let's start at the beginning- You walk in and find this place jam packed full of people; that can never be a bad thing! After you put your name on the list you will be greeted with a free (bottomless) glass of house white wine; need I go on? Once you finally get a table, which could be quite a wait - so plan accordingly, you will find yourself in a cute cozy comfortable environment. The space is small and as full as it can be with tables. An absolute gem of a dining experience! On to the food: if you are lucky enough to find the Parmesan Crusted Halibut on the list of specials, GET IT! The fish is prepared so beautifully that it absolutely melted in my mouth with such a flavorful blast in my mouth- I have never found a bite of food to make me happier... until the next time I was in town and had it again- same great meal! The prices are reasonable and the food is beyond what you pay for it. The service has been wonderful every time I have been there- I even called once back in Minnesota because my date and I had left our Pacific Cafe postcard sitting on the table and wanted to have something to remember the trip by- they were most helpful and sent out a new postcard to me right away! If you're in from out of town- find this place; if you are a local and never been- find this place!

Pros: free wine while you wait, excellent seafood, great atmosphere

Cons: NOTHING

Broders Southside Pasta Bar - Edina, MN

I love any place that I can go in, sit at a bar, and watch my food being prepared not too far away! If you are lucky enough to actually get a seat in this place, request a seat at the bar, unless you have a large party. Broders is a wonderful place to sit and have a romantic dinner. The gentlemen behind the bar was very helpful in suggesting things to order and also offered great conversation when we were looking for it. I would highly recommend ordering the roasted garlic, as it was the best prepared garlic I have ever had! If you do have to wait for a table, grab a glass of wine and sit outside and enjoy the beautiful patio they have set up! Overall - you will walk into this place finding every seat in the place full, every item on the menu making your mouth water, and a very helpful staff.

Pros: great food, ambience, patio to enjoy while you wait

Cons: don't take reservations and usually a long wait for a table

The Capital Grille - Minnespolis, MN

I will be honest in my review- the night I am reviewing was in December 2006. I do realize that things can change in such a long period of time- so please remember that while reading. We went to The Capital Grille for my birthday celebration last year; we walked in the door to a very warm wonderful greeting by the staff. Once we arrived at our table there was a card sitting there with my name on it- it was a very short and simple "Happy Birthday" signed by the staff working that night. What a great first impression of this place! We were treated with the utmost respect and had wonderful service throughout our entire visit. Our food was cooked to perfection and full of flavor! At a place the this you can't expect to leave without paying top prices; the food is more than worth it! I highly recommend The Capital Grille to anyone who is looking for a nice dinner in a fun city. It was a full house, which is always a good thing! The atmosphere was not too loud and not too quite- perfect for a nice meal with some people that I love with all my heart!

Pros: Vallet parking, great service, wonderful food

Cons: none

MN Vikings vs. Chicago Bears (@Chicago)

I'm gonna make this short and sweet... pretty much just rubbing it in.
On Saturday, October 13th I will wake up- drive to the city, do a short walk for Breast Cancer (here is the link if you want to donate to my cause: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/Ang88).  Once I finish my walk I will have to find something to do with myself for the next few hours before I board a plane to Chicago, IL.  I have tickets in transit via USPS for The Vikings @ The Bears game on Sunday, October 14th!  I have flights booked ($98 R/T!!), and a hotel is in the working....
Just wanted to rub it in... It's gonna be pretty dope- I've never been to Soldier Field!  Imagine the pictures I should have... if I'm sober enough to take them.

Hitchin' A Ride

Generally I start my blogs by having some idea of what I'm going to say- today is different.
I have something that I am finally remembering to blog about- and now I'm glad I waited, because this story has evolved in the past week.

As some of you know, I work in Princeton, MN- for those that don't know.. it's pretty far out from any bit of reality. I live in Andover, which is about 20-25 minutes from Minneapolis, and Princeton is another 45 minutes North of my house! Like I said, it's far.
Now most people drive on freeways/highways- it's the end of the day and really you just want to get home. What's the fastest way home? The road with the fastest speed limit, right?! I used to leave work and jump on 169 South and follow that to Highway 10 East, then take my exit and make my way home.

Here is the beginning of my reasoning behind this blog: It started one hot summer day (lol, great way to start a sentence) I was turning the corner to get onto 169 and there was this man hitchhiking at the bottom of the on-ramp! He was not a well dressed man- very 'construction worker' style, but way too 'something' to be a construction worker. He was very tan, had a smoke in his hand and looked to be well into his 50's. I didn't really think much of it, cause it happens. I go on with my life.
The very next day I am driving home from work and I am much further along in my drive (Elk River, for those who know the path) and I see this same man hitchin' again! What a strange coincidence, I thought. I figured he must have made his way to Elk River the day before, found somewhere to sleep for the night and continued on the next afternoon- but what do I know; I'm merely a bystander in this situation.
A few days go by and I am leaving work, turning my corner to jump on 169 again- guess who is at the bottom of the on-ramp?!?!? You guessed it; it's my friend the hitchhiker! Now I'm to the point where it's weirding me out! I continue on and forget all about him, again. Another day or two later... same guy, new place- this time he is in between Princeton and Elk River, a little town called Zimmerman, hitchin'.
I am guessing this story will lose readers if I continue to go day by day of seeing this guy- so I will move on to the most current of this story.

I have since decided to find a new way home, not because of the mystery hitcher, but because both of those roads are "highways" which means they have lights and intersections- I was sick of going 65 in one spot then having to slow down to 55 and stop for a bunch of lights though it all, so I decided to take it upon myself to change that. I still have to get on 169, but I get off and take the back roads before I get to Elk River. I would still see the hitcher in Princeton and Zimmerman, but nothing beyond that any longer.

One day I had to meet my dad after work to pick up Vikings tickets to the home opener- he works in Big Lake, so Elk River is the perfect meeting spot for us. This means I had to take the 'old' way home... 169 to Hwy 10. As I take the cloverleaf exit onto Hwy 10 and merge in with all the other cars there is a stop light ahead- I have to stop; dammit. I bet you'll never guess who is hitchin' at that light...
Now it had been a good week and a half since I'd seen the guy and this was the farthest down I had seen him yet... so it was pretty shocking to me. Once I met up with my dad and told him about how much I see this guy he busted out with "maybe he's your guardian angel". Something I didn't think was true until Monday of this week. After meeting with my dad I get back in my car and continue my drive down Hwy 10 towards Anoka- Anoka is also one of those small towns with stop lights. Mind you, this is the same day- I seen the hitcher right before I met with my dad (which took about 15-20 minutes of my time), and now I am driving through Anoka- only to SEE HIM AGAIN! This is now the closest to my house he has been... that I know of!

Back to taking the 'new' way home... back roads!

I mentioned above that I didn't believe what my dad said until Monday of this week... would you like to hear what happened Monday of this week? I'll assume you do and go on: my back roads drive involves a few stop signs and lots of twisty roads- it's fun... makes me want a race car! On Monday, I am approaching one of the few stop signs and I see a person standing on the side of the road... need I say more? Yep- it was him again... on my back roads adventure!!!
Here is where I go nuts: What are the chances of him being on the back roads, the very same back roads that I take? Is he really my guardian angel? Does this guy have a house? if so... where does he live and where the hell is he always trying to go? Who keeps giving him rides? I never realized people still picked up hitchers!
If I won the lottery- I'd buy him a car for sure!

I wish I had a picture of this guy... it's always so hard to grab my phone and get the camera active by the time I realize he is there...

So now I pass this blog on to the readers, as I like to keep you all involved. As you have probably noticed I keep calling him "hitcher"- I think this man, my Guardian Angel, needs a name! My first thought was "Bob", but I work with a Bob and there is another very special stranger in my life named Bob (RIP, I think), so I don't think Bob is very fitting. I'd like to hear your thoughts... what should I name my Guardian Angel?