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Which Pride and Prejudice Girl Are You? created with QuizFarm.com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| You scored as Elizabeth I am Elizabeth. I am headstrong and intelligent. I love to be myself, and am very loyal to my family. I can sometimes be prideful and "prejudiced," but I try to remain open minded and I usually regret past mistakes.
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Sunday, December 23, 2007
I'm Elizabeth-big surprise!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Home For Christmas
Flying home tomorrow afternoon for almost two weeks of NO tweens! I really do like my students, but not right now. Right now I want the following:
1. Five little shining faces, ages 9, 7, 6, 4 and 2. I MISS my nephews and nieces!
2. My Mom and Dad.
3. My little sibs-Angie and Troy. Oh yeah-and my bro-in-law too!
4. My dog Sidney. He's an adorable neurotic fuzzball.
5. Both my grans, who are still the matriarchs though they are frailer every year.
6. Christmas stockings and cookies and dressup dinner and Christmas Eve service and Christmas communion at church and the Pine Tree Barn with Shari and exchanging Starbucks with Holly and getting my hair done by Nancy. Oh wait, that was like numbers 6-13.
Anyhow, you get the idea. I'll be home for Christmas! Just pray that I make my stopover in Philadelphia without any glitches-I only have 50 minutes to change planes, and I've not been through this airport before!
I'm going home.........................!
1. Five little shining faces, ages 9, 7, 6, 4 and 2. I MISS my nephews and nieces!
2. My Mom and Dad.
3. My little sibs-Angie and Troy. Oh yeah-and my bro-in-law too!
4. My dog Sidney. He's an adorable neurotic fuzzball.
5. Both my grans, who are still the matriarchs though they are frailer every year.
6. Christmas stockings and cookies and dressup dinner and Christmas Eve service and Christmas communion at church and the Pine Tree Barn with Shari and exchanging Starbucks with Holly and getting my hair done by Nancy. Oh wait, that was like numbers 6-13.
Anyhow, you get the idea. I'll be home for Christmas! Just pray that I make my stopover in Philadelphia without any glitches-I only have 50 minutes to change planes, and I've not been through this airport before!
I'm going home.........................!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Short and Sweet Wedding Rant
I just got an EMAIL wedding invitation to an ex's wedding for next May. Well, not exactly an ex-boyfriend, but definitely an ex-something.
What the HECK?
I get it, I get it-he's a moron. Apparently so was I.
What the HECK?
I get it, I get it-he's a moron. Apparently so was I.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
This or That Christmas Meme
This from Jilly at My Outside Voice. Thanks!
Candy cane or peppermint patties? Candy canes, but only peppermint ones.
Sugar or gingerbread cookies? Any other time of the year I'd say neither, but right now, both.
Tinsel or beaded strands? Are the beads shiny? If so, beads.
Multi-colored or same-colored lights? Multicolored.
Flashing or still lights? Still. DEFINITELY still.
Wreaths or mistletoe/holly? Where does one find mistletoe? I think I'll take any of it.
Rudolph or Frosty? Frosty; Rudolph needs to get a grip on his self-esteem issues.
Sledding or snowball fights? Snowball fights.
Snow or ice/icicles? Snow, especially big flakes coming down. I grew up on the Great Lakes, and I HATE ice.
Snow hat or earmuffs? Neither; they mess up my hair beyond repair. Wow, that makes me sound prissy, which I am NOT.
Getting or giving? I love to give, but hate it when I don't know what to give.
Snow days or plow trucks? Snow days, especially in Northern VA where they don't even really need to pull out the plow trucks for a snow day!
Stockings or presents? Stockings are more fun-our stocking stuffers get goofy.
Cookies & milk or letter to Santa? Neither. It's all a family deal, and has been ever since I can remember. Oh wait-we did get one gift under the tree on Christmas morning from Santa. Everything else was the night before from each other.
Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Christmas Eve is with my family, and the traditions are sweet.
Log Burning Channel or real thing? We'd always had the real thing, but since my parents moved to a house with no fireplace :(, it's got to be the fake one.
Cards or emails? Cards, but I'm terrible at getting them out. I always have the best intentions...
Shoveling or cleaning off the car? Cleaning off the car.
The Inn’s manger or the animals? Definitely the manger.
Mary & Joseph or The Wise Men? How about baby Jesus?
Jack Frost or Little Drummer Boy? Little Drummer Boy.
Candy cane or peppermint patties? Candy canes, but only peppermint ones.
Sugar or gingerbread cookies? Any other time of the year I'd say neither, but right now, both.
Tinsel or beaded strands? Are the beads shiny? If so, beads.
Multi-colored or same-colored lights? Multicolored.
Flashing or still lights? Still. DEFINITELY still.
Wreaths or mistletoe/holly? Where does one find mistletoe? I think I'll take any of it.
Rudolph or Frosty? Frosty; Rudolph needs to get a grip on his self-esteem issues.
Sledding or snowball fights? Snowball fights.
Snow or ice/icicles? Snow, especially big flakes coming down. I grew up on the Great Lakes, and I HATE ice.
Snow hat or earmuffs? Neither; they mess up my hair beyond repair. Wow, that makes me sound prissy, which I am NOT.
Getting or giving? I love to give, but hate it when I don't know what to give.
Snow days or plow trucks? Snow days, especially in Northern VA where they don't even really need to pull out the plow trucks for a snow day!
Stockings or presents? Stockings are more fun-our stocking stuffers get goofy.
Cookies & milk or letter to Santa? Neither. It's all a family deal, and has been ever since I can remember. Oh wait-we did get one gift under the tree on Christmas morning from Santa. Everything else was the night before from each other.
Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Christmas Eve is with my family, and the traditions are sweet.
Log Burning Channel or real thing? We'd always had the real thing, but since my parents moved to a house with no fireplace :(, it's got to be the fake one.
Cards or emails? Cards, but I'm terrible at getting them out. I always have the best intentions...
Shoveling or cleaning off the car? Cleaning off the car.
The Inn’s manger or the animals? Definitely the manger.
Mary & Joseph or The Wise Men? How about baby Jesus?
Jack Frost or Little Drummer Boy? Little Drummer Boy.
The Savvy Prepster
I lifted this little gem from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette:
http://knoxnews.com/news/2007/sep/13/preppy-loosens-up/.
What kind of savvy prepster are YOU?
WHAT TODAY'S SAVVY PREPSTER IS WEARING
CLASSIC AMERICAN PREPPY (men)
* rep ties
* sack suits (seersucker, poplin for summer; gray flannel for winter)
* Brooks Brothers
* J. Press
* Sperry Topsiders (preferably held together with duct tape)
* Lacoste shirts
* Ralph Lauren polo Shetland pullover sweaters
* madras (dark, not pastel)
* Nantucket reds (preferably faded to pink)
CLASSIC AMERICAN PREPPY (women)
* Lime-green golf skirts
* Lacoste shirts with popped collars
* Lilly Pulitzer "Jackie Kennedy" shift
* Cardigan cable-knit sweaters tied around shoulders
* Mummy’s pearls
* Gold shell earrings
* 14K heavy gold bracelets
* Bangles and/or chains, preferably somewhat dinged-up
* Jack Rogers sandals
* Grosgrain ribbon belts
* Fair-isle sweaters from Trimingham’s in Bermuda
HIP-HOP PREPPY WEARERS
* T-Pain
* Kanye West
* Andre 3000
* Pharrell
UPDATED PREPPY
* Ralph Lauren polo shirt (with large size polo player)
* Vineyard Vines
* J. McLaughlin
* J. Crew
* Tory Burch
* Clothes with '60s-, '70s-era decorative art: geometric shapes, zigzags and Deco (think decorators David Hicks, Billy Baldwin)
* David Yurman jewelry
* Anthropologie
CASUAL UPDATED PREPPY
* North Face or Columbia outerwear, vests, jackets (ski-lift tickets attached)
* baggy khakis
* Buzz by Jane Fox: tote bags, belts, flipflops
* Patagonia fleece
* Reef sandals
* Eliza B. flip-flops
EURO PREPPY
* Anything Banana Republic (fitted)
* Quilted vests
* Barbour wax jackets
* Wellies
POPULIST, AFFORDABLE PREPPY
* L.L. Bean
* Bass Weejuns
* The Gap (since Rachel Zoe signed on as a consultant)
* American Eagle
http://knoxnews.com/news/2007/sep/13/preppy-loosens-up/.
What kind of savvy prepster are YOU?
WHAT TODAY'S SAVVY PREPSTER IS WEARING
CLASSIC AMERICAN PREPPY (men)
* rep ties
* sack suits (seersucker, poplin for summer; gray flannel for winter)
* Brooks Brothers
* J. Press
* Sperry Topsiders (preferably held together with duct tape)
* Lacoste shirts
* Ralph Lauren polo Shetland pullover sweaters
* madras (dark, not pastel)
* Nantucket reds (preferably faded to pink)
CLASSIC AMERICAN PREPPY (women)
* Lime-green golf skirts
* Lacoste shirts with popped collars
* Lilly Pulitzer "Jackie Kennedy" shift
* Cardigan cable-knit sweaters tied around shoulders
* Mummy’s pearls
* Gold shell earrings
* 14K heavy gold bracelets
* Bangles and/or chains, preferably somewhat dinged-up
* Jack Rogers sandals
* Grosgrain ribbon belts
* Fair-isle sweaters from Trimingham’s in Bermuda
HIP-HOP PREPPY WEARERS
* T-Pain
* Kanye West
* Andre 3000
* Pharrell
UPDATED PREPPY
* Ralph Lauren polo shirt (with large size polo player)
* Vineyard Vines
* J. McLaughlin
* J. Crew
* Tory Burch
* Clothes with '60s-, '70s-era decorative art: geometric shapes, zigzags and Deco (think decorators David Hicks, Billy Baldwin)
* David Yurman jewelry
* Anthropologie
CASUAL UPDATED PREPPY
* North Face or Columbia outerwear, vests, jackets (ski-lift tickets attached)
* baggy khakis
* Buzz by Jane Fox: tote bags, belts, flipflops
* Patagonia fleece
* Reef sandals
* Eliza B. flip-flops
EURO PREPPY
* Anything Banana Republic (fitted)
* Quilted vests
* Barbour wax jackets
* Wellies
POPULIST, AFFORDABLE PREPPY
* L.L. Bean
* Bass Weejuns
* The Gap (since Rachel Zoe signed on as a consultant)
* American Eagle
Monday, December 10, 2007
Meme Time
This is fun, but I'm still enjoying my five favorites the most (see previous post).
Meme time!
1. What time did you get up this morning? 8:15! I set my (3) alarms for 6:15, 6:30, and 6:45 respectively, and shut them all off and went back to sleep. I think I was in the middle of a story dream, and I wanted to finish! (I don't remember the story. :P) I have to be at work 20 minutes away by 8:35, so I grabbed fresh clothes, brushed my teeth, washed my face, jammed on a headband, and picked up my curling iron and makeup on the way out the door. I have a really long stoplight at the foot of my hill, so I had time to apply my makeup without endangering anyone's life. I made it to school by 8:45, just as the bell rang for the kids to go to their first class. My second block is free, so I found a bathroom with an outlet, and plugged in the curling iron. Whew!
2. If you could eat lunch with one person, who would it be? Nelson Mandela
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? I think it was The Holiday. How sad is that?
4. What is your favorite TV show? Friends. I know it's reruns, but I don't care. I refused to watch it until the very last episode, and I was so freaked out by Ross and Rachel being together (how on earth is that even logical?), I had to catch up on their history. Now I'm hooked, and I love Chandler. I would marry him. Also, they truly display my generations' angst, which is funny and sad at the same time.
*Hey, what happened to #5?*
6. What do you have for breakfast? Do: coffee and a danish or a banana and almonds. Would have, if I could: omelette, broiled grapefruit, café au lait, and fresh orange juice.
7. Who would you hate to be stuck in a room with? David Bowie, Hugo Chavez, Britney Spears. Any *star* of a reality show.
*What happened to number 8??
9. What is your middle name? Michelle
10. Beach, City or Country? City, but only if I could get to the country occasionally.
11. Favorite ice cream? Peppermint Stick.
12. Butter, plain or salted popcorn? I hate popcorn. It's really best for stringing on trees...
13. Favorite color? I vascillate between periwinkle and indigo.
14. What kind of car do you drive? DO: Chrysler Concorde (with leather interior, for what it's worth). WOULD: Mini Cooper, Volvo, BMW 300 series, Jaguar (while I'm dreaming).
15. Favorite sandwich? Turkey Artichoke Panini from Panera, with the new Orchard Harvest salad. Yummy!
16. What characteristic do you despise? Can't stand it when people are petty.
17. Favorite flower? Anything spring, but especially tulips.
18. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Today's answer is Vancouver. Tomorrow will assuredly be somewhere else.
19. What color is your bathroom? Periwinkle with white and navy accents.
20. Favorite brand of clothing? Ralph Lauren
21. Where would you retire to? Retire?? I'm just getting started. I can't answer this. I don't think I ever will.
22. Favorite day of the week? Every teacher's answer: Saturday!
23. What did you do for your last birthday? Had a good friend with whom I nearly share a birthday over for dinner. I think we went to Starbucks afterwards. Exciting, huh?
24. Where were you born? Oakwood Hospital, in Dearborn, Michigan.
25. Favorite sport to watch? Basketball, but I'm not a big sports fan.
26. Who do you least expect to do this meme? Anyone. I think I must be the only list-obsessed person out there.
27. Person you expect to do it? no answer?
28. What fabric detergent do you use? Arm & Hammer liquid.
29. Coke or Pepsi? Can I just say San Pellegrino? I don't really drink soda, but if I had to say, it'd be Coke.
30. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Total night owl. I am pretty useless in the morning.
31. What is your shoe size? DO I HAVE to answer this? Sigh. It's 11. Anybody know where I can get great shoes that don't hurt my big old feet? Remember, I'm on my feet on concrete floors all day!
32. Do you have any pets? Sadly, no. I would love a dog, but I honestly think they might be a little too high-maintenance for me to own one while I'm single. I did for a while-a wonderful Golden Retriever-but he ended up being very needy, and my time is valuable. When I get married, I think I'll try again.
Meme time!
1. What time did you get up this morning? 8:15! I set my (3) alarms for 6:15, 6:30, and 6:45 respectively, and shut them all off and went back to sleep. I think I was in the middle of a story dream, and I wanted to finish! (I don't remember the story. :P) I have to be at work 20 minutes away by 8:35, so I grabbed fresh clothes, brushed my teeth, washed my face, jammed on a headband, and picked up my curling iron and makeup on the way out the door. I have a really long stoplight at the foot of my hill, so I had time to apply my makeup without endangering anyone's life. I made it to school by 8:45, just as the bell rang for the kids to go to their first class. My second block is free, so I found a bathroom with an outlet, and plugged in the curling iron. Whew!
2. If you could eat lunch with one person, who would it be? Nelson Mandela
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? I think it was The Holiday. How sad is that?
4. What is your favorite TV show? Friends. I know it's reruns, but I don't care. I refused to watch it until the very last episode, and I was so freaked out by Ross and Rachel being together (how on earth is that even logical?), I had to catch up on their history. Now I'm hooked, and I love Chandler. I would marry him. Also, they truly display my generations' angst, which is funny and sad at the same time.
*Hey, what happened to #5?*
6. What do you have for breakfast? Do: coffee and a danish or a banana and almonds. Would have, if I could: omelette, broiled grapefruit, café au lait, and fresh orange juice.
7. Who would you hate to be stuck in a room with? David Bowie, Hugo Chavez, Britney Spears. Any *star* of a reality show.
*What happened to number 8??
9. What is your middle name? Michelle
10. Beach, City or Country? City, but only if I could get to the country occasionally.
11. Favorite ice cream? Peppermint Stick.
12. Butter, plain or salted popcorn? I hate popcorn. It's really best for stringing on trees...
13. Favorite color? I vascillate between periwinkle and indigo.
14. What kind of car do you drive? DO: Chrysler Concorde (with leather interior, for what it's worth). WOULD: Mini Cooper, Volvo, BMW 300 series, Jaguar (while I'm dreaming).
15. Favorite sandwich? Turkey Artichoke Panini from Panera, with the new Orchard Harvest salad. Yummy!
16. What characteristic do you despise? Can't stand it when people are petty.
17. Favorite flower? Anything spring, but especially tulips.
18. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Today's answer is Vancouver. Tomorrow will assuredly be somewhere else.
19. What color is your bathroom? Periwinkle with white and navy accents.
20. Favorite brand of clothing? Ralph Lauren
21. Where would you retire to? Retire?? I'm just getting started. I can't answer this. I don't think I ever will.
22. Favorite day of the week? Every teacher's answer: Saturday!
23. What did you do for your last birthday? Had a good friend with whom I nearly share a birthday over for dinner. I think we went to Starbucks afterwards. Exciting, huh?
24. Where were you born? Oakwood Hospital, in Dearborn, Michigan.
25. Favorite sport to watch? Basketball, but I'm not a big sports fan.
26. Who do you least expect to do this meme? Anyone. I think I must be the only list-obsessed person out there.
27. Person you expect to do it? no answer?
28. What fabric detergent do you use? Arm & Hammer liquid.
29. Coke or Pepsi? Can I just say San Pellegrino? I don't really drink soda, but if I had to say, it'd be Coke.
30. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Total night owl. I am pretty useless in the morning.
31. What is your shoe size? DO I HAVE to answer this? Sigh. It's 11. Anybody know where I can get great shoes that don't hurt my big old feet? Remember, I'm on my feet on concrete floors all day!
32. Do you have any pets? Sadly, no. I would love a dog, but I honestly think they might be a little too high-maintenance for me to own one while I'm single. I did for a while-a wonderful Golden Retriever-but he ended up being very needy, and my time is valuable. When I get married, I think I'll try again.
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Five Things I ♥ Right Now
Ok, so I snitched this idea from Tres Posh Preppy. I never said I was creative.
1. Tiffany Perfume, from Tiffany & Co. (Do you see a theme here?) They describe the fragrance as follows:
"TIFFANY Parfum is a luxurious floral bouquet of Damascena Rose, Indian Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Fleur d'Orange and Iris."
2. Fendi Shawl Collar Coat; WAS: $3,190.00 NOW: $1,914.00 40% OFF at Net-A-Porter.
(I still can't afford it.)
Dark Gray cashmere shawl collar coat with three quarter length double layered sleeves. Fendi coat has large gold-tone press stud fastenings through the middle, two pockets on front and is fully lined.
3. Barcelona Chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, 1929. I sat on one of these at the Smithsonian's modern art museum several weeks ago, and fell in love. It retails for only $3,888 at www.DWR.com. I can't afford it, either. :P
4. Chicago. I'm not sure why-I KNOW the winters STINK. I love the culture and the friendliness of this city, though. It has something that I don't think I'll ever find on the East Coast. I may end up there yet...if I can afford to move there. The job is here in DC, for now.
5. The U2 iPod. It's ridiculous that I don't have one, because I have about a million songs on my iTunes, but I've been waiting for this one. What can I say, I love Bono and the Edge. I also LOVE the red dial! Apple sells this for $199, with 30 GB memory.
1. Tiffany Perfume, from Tiffany & Co. (Do you see a theme here?) They describe the fragrance as follows:
"TIFFANY Parfum is a luxurious floral bouquet of Damascena Rose, Indian Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Fleur d'Orange and Iris."
2. Fendi Shawl Collar Coat; WAS: $3,190.00 NOW: $1,914.00 40% OFF at Net-A-Porter.
(I still can't afford it.)
Dark Gray cashmere shawl collar coat with three quarter length double layered sleeves. Fendi coat has large gold-tone press stud fastenings through the middle, two pockets on front and is fully lined.
3. Barcelona Chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, 1929. I sat on one of these at the Smithsonian's modern art museum several weeks ago, and fell in love. It retails for only $3,888 at www.DWR.com. I can't afford it, either. :P
4. Chicago. I'm not sure why-I KNOW the winters STINK. I love the culture and the friendliness of this city, though. It has something that I don't think I'll ever find on the East Coast. I may end up there yet...if I can afford to move there. The job is here in DC, for now.
5. The U2 iPod. It's ridiculous that I don't have one, because I have about a million songs on my iTunes, but I've been waiting for this one. What can I say, I love Bono and the Edge. I also LOVE the red dial! Apple sells this for $199, with 30 GB memory.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Friday Fill-in #49
Friday Fill-In #49
1. I super-duper-uper LOVE Christmas.
2. candy colored rainbow is/are my favorite color(s) for the Christmas tree lights.
3. The candles in the window have no bulbs. (No window candles)
4. Home Alone is one of my most favorite Christmas movies.
5. My favorite Christmas lyric(s) is/are "You can say there's no such thing as Santa; but as for me and grandpa, we believe."
6. I'm dreaming of a Christmas at home with my family and NO TWELVE-YEAR OLDS.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a dinner party with my church family, tomorrow my plans include brunch with the girls and a manicure, and Sunday, I want to have a fabulous cocktail party!
1. I super-duper-uper LOVE Christmas.
2. candy colored rainbow is/are my favorite color(s) for the Christmas tree lights.
3. The candles in the window have no bulbs. (No window candles)
4. Home Alone is one of my most favorite Christmas movies.
5. My favorite Christmas lyric(s) is/are "You can say there's no such thing as Santa; but as for me and grandpa, we believe."
6. I'm dreaming of a Christmas at home with my family and NO TWELVE-YEAR OLDS.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a dinner party with my church family, tomorrow my plans include brunch with the girls and a manicure, and Sunday, I want to have a fabulous cocktail party!
Thursday, December 06, 2007
A Christmas Meme
I saw this over on The Preppy Wedding.
1. Egg nog or hot chocolate?
I have to go with Preppy Wedding on this one: Tall Starbucks Peppermint Hot Chocolate. Yum.
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Santa wraps everyone's except the ones from my little brother. For some reason, he never gets around to wrapping Troy's gifts for him.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
Both, but mostly colored. I like how it looks like candy.
4. Do you hang mistletoe?
I wouldn't know where to get mistletoe if my life depended on it. Anyhow, there's nobody to kiss. :( Seriously-I don't even KNOW anyone. I have GOT to get out more.
5. When do you put your decorations up?
Black Friday after Thanksgiving. The long weekend means I can do it with leisure, and besides, I head home to my parents' around the 20th, so I need to have as much time to enjoy it as possible before I go.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish:
Chicken paprikas. It's a Hungarian family deal.
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child?
We went to Michigan every year on Christmas Eve, and stayed through Christmas Day. Christmas Eve was a quiet, delicious, tradition-filled event of epic proportions at my dad's parents' house, with two aunts, and two cousins. Christmas Day was TONS of fun at mom's parents' place, with 3 pairs of aunts and uncles, a jillion cousins running wild everywhere, the inevitable friend of a cousin who didn't have a celebration to go to, and everybody singing all the time. We always got stuck in a snowstorm either on the way there or on the way home, and often had to stay over an extra day. I remember having to stop once at a hotel overnight on the way home in a blizzard. Those were the days.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I think I was born knowing the truth. Mom tells me that I knew my grandpa was Santa on my second Christmas, at 27 months old.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
We open ALL our gifts on Christmas Eve. This stems from the years and years of traveling to my grandparents' houses after our own little celebration.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
I have incredible colorful German blown-glass ornaments I've collected over the years since college. I used to play hooky once a semester and go to the local fancy-schmancy mall and window shop for the day, stopping at Godiva and Starbucks for treats, Saks 5th Ave to try on furs, and ending at Neiman Marcus to buy one little Christmas ornament. I have half a dozen of them, and they built the foundation for years of collecting fabulous baubles. I also have some great ones from my childhood. Mom cleaned out the collection several years ago, and my sis and brother and I got to pick what we wanted. Thanks, mom!
11. Snow: love it or hate it?
I love the snow, I hate the ice, sleet and freezing rain. Cleveland was mostly the latter. I wonder if Chicago is any better?
12. Can you ice skate?
I can stand up and move around, but I wouldn't technically call it skating.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
No. It's always been more about the traditions than the gifts. I'm sure if I thought hard enough, I could remember something.
14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you?
Being with my family.
15.What is your favorite holiday dessert?
A few years ago, my grandma asked me to make creme puffs. Now we do it every year on Christmas Eve to finish the day.
16. What tops your tree?
The MOST fabulous star. It totally matches my collection of ornaments. I'm a big proponent of the star-it's the most symbolic, I think.
17. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving?
Just being honest, it's a toss-up. I love especially gifting to the nieces and nephews, and to my mom.
18. What is your favorite Christmas song?
Gloria and Lux Venit from Michael W. Smith's Christmas album.
19. What is your favorite Christmas movie?
A Christmas Story.
20. What would be the best gift you could receive this year?
A great time with my family. Safe travels, and happy memories. And the iPod 30GB special U2 edition black with a red dial and the band's signatures engraved on the back. :)
1. Egg nog or hot chocolate?
I have to go with Preppy Wedding on this one: Tall Starbucks Peppermint Hot Chocolate. Yum.
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Santa wraps everyone's except the ones from my little brother. For some reason, he never gets around to wrapping Troy's gifts for him.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
Both, but mostly colored. I like how it looks like candy.
4. Do you hang mistletoe?
I wouldn't know where to get mistletoe if my life depended on it. Anyhow, there's nobody to kiss. :( Seriously-I don't even KNOW anyone. I have GOT to get out more.
5. When do you put your decorations up?
Black Friday after Thanksgiving. The long weekend means I can do it with leisure, and besides, I head home to my parents' around the 20th, so I need to have as much time to enjoy it as possible before I go.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish:
Chicken paprikas. It's a Hungarian family deal.
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child?
We went to Michigan every year on Christmas Eve, and stayed through Christmas Day. Christmas Eve was a quiet, delicious, tradition-filled event of epic proportions at my dad's parents' house, with two aunts, and two cousins. Christmas Day was TONS of fun at mom's parents' place, with 3 pairs of aunts and uncles, a jillion cousins running wild everywhere, the inevitable friend of a cousin who didn't have a celebration to go to, and everybody singing all the time. We always got stuck in a snowstorm either on the way there or on the way home, and often had to stay over an extra day. I remember having to stop once at a hotel overnight on the way home in a blizzard. Those were the days.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I think I was born knowing the truth. Mom tells me that I knew my grandpa was Santa on my second Christmas, at 27 months old.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
We open ALL our gifts on Christmas Eve. This stems from the years and years of traveling to my grandparents' houses after our own little celebration.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
I have incredible colorful German blown-glass ornaments I've collected over the years since college. I used to play hooky once a semester and go to the local fancy-schmancy mall and window shop for the day, stopping at Godiva and Starbucks for treats, Saks 5th Ave to try on furs, and ending at Neiman Marcus to buy one little Christmas ornament. I have half a dozen of them, and they built the foundation for years of collecting fabulous baubles. I also have some great ones from my childhood. Mom cleaned out the collection several years ago, and my sis and brother and I got to pick what we wanted. Thanks, mom!
11. Snow: love it or hate it?
I love the snow, I hate the ice, sleet and freezing rain. Cleveland was mostly the latter. I wonder if Chicago is any better?
12. Can you ice skate?
I can stand up and move around, but I wouldn't technically call it skating.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
No. It's always been more about the traditions than the gifts. I'm sure if I thought hard enough, I could remember something.
14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you?
Being with my family.
15.What is your favorite holiday dessert?
A few years ago, my grandma asked me to make creme puffs. Now we do it every year on Christmas Eve to finish the day.
16. What tops your tree?
The MOST fabulous star. It totally matches my collection of ornaments. I'm a big proponent of the star-it's the most symbolic, I think.
17. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving?
Just being honest, it's a toss-up. I love especially gifting to the nieces and nephews, and to my mom.
18. What is your favorite Christmas song?
Gloria and Lux Venit from Michael W. Smith's Christmas album.
19. What is your favorite Christmas movie?
A Christmas Story.
20. What would be the best gift you could receive this year?
A great time with my family. Safe travels, and happy memories. And the iPod 30GB special U2 edition black with a red dial and the band's signatures engraved on the back. :)
A Two Hour Delay!
Halloo, hallay, a two hour delay today!
Virginia cracks me up when it snows. As a Midwesterner, my experience is that when bad weather hits, you put on warmer clothes and keep slogging through. Here in the Mid-Atlantic, they freak out when the temperature drops below 45, and when they see a few flakes of the white stuff, things shut down. Last year, they shut down school one day when there was a threat of snow-we never saw any of it. Well, I do have to say that I definitely prefer the weather here to the nasty sleet and freezing rain that we regularly got back home. Ick; you can keep that stuff.
In other news, I think I found my ideal look for my blog page. Like it?
Virginia cracks me up when it snows. As a Midwesterner, my experience is that when bad weather hits, you put on warmer clothes and keep slogging through. Here in the Mid-Atlantic, they freak out when the temperature drops below 45, and when they see a few flakes of the white stuff, things shut down. Last year, they shut down school one day when there was a threat of snow-we never saw any of it. Well, I do have to say that I definitely prefer the weather here to the nasty sleet and freezing rain that we regularly got back home. Ick; you can keep that stuff.
In other news, I think I found my ideal look for my blog page. Like it?
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Retro Cocktails
So I'm all excited-I'm having my first ever cocktail party on Sunday! The girls are invited for a glamorously attired, champagne cocktails and atomic appetizers, retro holiday affair. If anyone has any suggestions, please, PLEASE let me know! I'm all about the retro.
A tag and a little weirdness
I'm all excited-I got tagged today for the first time. I feel like a new kid picked for a team at recess. Thanks, Libby! Here goes, with seven things that make me weird:
1. I'm a compulsive list-maker. No, really. Well, THAT isn't weird-lots of people make lists. The weirdness is that I am fascinated by lists of things about things...not just To Do lists like normal people. In fact, I found this crazy website that is all about lists here: You should also check out
2. Along similar lines, I'm also a compulsive quiz-taker. I'm all about the self-discovery. Now that I stop and think about it, I think the greatest satisfaction comes when I take a quiz, and it tells me exactly something that I already knew about myself. I think I find it reassuring, that I'm self-aware. Don't ask me why I remotely find this important; it's just weird.
3. I have a collection of books that can most adequately described "juvenile fiction" from my childhood. Now, I consider myself to be a relatively sophisticated reader (after wading through 100 Years of Solitude, I think I'm amazing), but I can't begin to recap the level of pleasure attained from a perusal of any of my old Trixie Belden, Anne of Green Gables or Betsy-Tacy books. Oh, I say that I am collecting vintage children's literature, but I really know that it's one of my guilty pleasures. I escaped into those books as a child-when I was too tall and awkward for the school crowd's approval, Trixie understood and was good at being different. I always wanted to be a member of her club, and help her solve the local mysteries with her fabulous group of friends. And Anne Shirley! I wanted to marry Gilbert Blythe-I thought she was the luckiest girl in the world. Sigh. When I start feeling silly about it as an "adult", I remind myself that these books were written by grownups who imagined themselves away, too. And then I don't feel so bad...
4. I tried internet dating once, on a rebound from a relationship. My friend talked me into it. It was interesting, and kind of weird. The most fascinating experience I had was meeting a guy who I totally hit it off with in conversation one evening. Turns out, he was studying for the priesthood. I still have no idea what he was doing on a dating website, but I think he might have been experiencing some second thoughts about celibacy. It's too bad, because he was really cute, smart, funny, etc, etc. But the priesthood! I am a magnet for unavailable men. (Wasn't that J Lo in the Wedding Planner?)
5. Speaking of which, weird thing about me number five is that I used to be a wedding planner. I witnessed some of the most interesting and pathological family interactions that can possibly exist. People get just weird over weddings. For the record, I also saw some of the loveliest relationships ever.
6. I am the total oddball in my family. I come from an incredibly creative bunch who (incidentally this year) have decided to only exchange home-made gifts with each other. I have NEVER had so much Christmas stress before! My mom is an artist; my sister does wonders with things like scrapbooking and the like; dad is a carver/woodworker, and he always makes gifts anyhow. Even my brother-in-law is an amazing musician. Me, I can analyze things. :P I can talk to people. I can tell you all about a symphonic poem-in French. And I'm REALLY good at suturing wounds and reading X-rays. No kidding-I really am. However, I can't create a home-made gift to save my life! If anyone has suggestions, I'd be thrilled to entertain them. I follow directions well...
7. Like Dorie, I suffer from short-term memory loss. At least, it feels like I do. I find it confusing to be simultaneously a complete academic nut and a crazy blue fish who "just keeps swimming; swimming, swimming"...it's weird.
8. There are about 7 different areas between which I would have great difficulty choosing to pursue my education to a higher level. Among the choices are: biochemistry, fashion design, culinary arts, curriculum development for gifted students, and stage direction. Really, really, weird, huh?
1. I'm a compulsive list-maker. No, really. Well, THAT isn't weird-lots of people make lists. The weirdness is that I am fascinated by lists of things about things...not just To Do lists like normal people. In fact, I found this crazy website that is all about lists here: You should also check out
2. Along similar lines, I'm also a compulsive quiz-taker. I'm all about the self-discovery. Now that I stop and think about it, I think the greatest satisfaction comes when I take a quiz, and it tells me exactly something that I already knew about myself. I think I find it reassuring, that I'm self-aware. Don't ask me why I remotely find this important; it's just weird.
3. I have a collection of books that can most adequately described "juvenile fiction" from my childhood. Now, I consider myself to be a relatively sophisticated reader (after wading through 100 Years of Solitude, I think I'm amazing), but I can't begin to recap the level of pleasure attained from a perusal of any of my old Trixie Belden, Anne of Green Gables or Betsy-Tacy books. Oh, I say that I am collecting vintage children's literature, but I really know that it's one of my guilty pleasures. I escaped into those books as a child-when I was too tall and awkward for the school crowd's approval, Trixie understood and was good at being different. I always wanted to be a member of her club, and help her solve the local mysteries with her fabulous group of friends. And Anne Shirley! I wanted to marry Gilbert Blythe-I thought she was the luckiest girl in the world. Sigh. When I start feeling silly about it as an "adult", I remind myself that these books were written by grownups who imagined themselves away, too. And then I don't feel so bad...
4. I tried internet dating once, on a rebound from a relationship. My friend talked me into it. It was interesting, and kind of weird. The most fascinating experience I had was meeting a guy who I totally hit it off with in conversation one evening. Turns out, he was studying for the priesthood. I still have no idea what he was doing on a dating website, but I think he might have been experiencing some second thoughts about celibacy. It's too bad, because he was really cute, smart, funny, etc, etc. But the priesthood! I am a magnet for unavailable men. (Wasn't that J Lo in the Wedding Planner?)
5. Speaking of which, weird thing about me number five is that I used to be a wedding planner. I witnessed some of the most interesting and pathological family interactions that can possibly exist. People get just weird over weddings. For the record, I also saw some of the loveliest relationships ever.
6. I am the total oddball in my family. I come from an incredibly creative bunch who (incidentally this year) have decided to only exchange home-made gifts with each other. I have NEVER had so much Christmas stress before! My mom is an artist; my sister does wonders with things like scrapbooking and the like; dad is a carver/woodworker, and he always makes gifts anyhow. Even my brother-in-law is an amazing musician. Me, I can analyze things. :P I can talk to people. I can tell you all about a symphonic poem-in French. And I'm REALLY good at suturing wounds and reading X-rays. No kidding-I really am. However, I can't create a home-made gift to save my life! If anyone has suggestions, I'd be thrilled to entertain them. I follow directions well...
7. Like Dorie, I suffer from short-term memory loss. At least, it feels like I do. I find it confusing to be simultaneously a complete academic nut and a crazy blue fish who "just keeps swimming; swimming, swimming"...it's weird.
8. There are about 7 different areas between which I would have great difficulty choosing to pursue my education to a higher level. Among the choices are: biochemistry, fashion design, culinary arts, curriculum development for gifted students, and stage direction. Really, really, weird, huh?
Sunday, December 02, 2007
I'm a Trifle!
You Are a Trifle |
 No doubt, you have many intricate layers. But deep down, you're a little squishy. |
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Christmas Season
I love this time of year. I'm realizing ever increasingly how special my parents have always made Christmastime. Mom and Dad, you are amazing. We've got so many fun traditions and stories.
In honor of the season, I found a même (of course). I'm drinking Mexican Hot Chocolate in my pjs and listening to Billie Holiday sing Christmas songs as I write.
Favorite Christmas Même…
* Non-Jesus-related song?
"Christmas Eve in Serejevo", by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and "Christmastime is Here" by Vince Guaraldi.
* Jesus-related song?
"Lux Venit", by Michael W. Smith I also love "Jesu Bambino", but I don't have an artist for that one.
* Santa-related song?
"Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer". I'm sorry, but I think it's hysterical. I sang it for our teacher talent show last year with Pete and the kids loved it.
* Fictional character? Huh? Santa, I guess, unless i can count Linus, since he's a cartoon, and he's in a Christmas cartoon.
* Dinner’s main course? Prime rib. We usually have ham though. :( If it's a Honeybaked, that's fine. :D
* Dinner’s dessert? We don't usually have dessert with Christmas dinner. We eat our dinner, then go to church for the Christmas Eve service, and when we come home we open our presents, have creme puffs with chocolate syrup, and then open our stockings.
* Scent (pine, gingerbread, candles…)? I found a wonderful tree variety a few years ago called Concolor-it smells like the most fabulous combination of oranges and pine. It's delicious.
* Animated movie? I'm going to have to go with "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
* Non-animated movie? "Home Alone", "While You Were Sleeping", "The Sound of Music". It has more to do with tradition than content. I love the newer "Miracle of 34th Street", but for me, that's a Thanksgiving movie.
* Personal memory? I have tons of them. One year we were opening presents in the living room and my dad was burning the wrappings in the kitchen fireplace, like usual. Someone put a plastic grocery bag of wrappings on the table for him to burn and didn't realize that the centerpiece from dinner still had a candle burning in it (it had burnt down pretty low). The bag caught fire, and chaos ensued...my sister and I each picked up one of the babies and ran with them to the far end of the house before they had any idea what was going on. My mom panicked, my dad was trying to find the source of the fire-he thought he'd done it. My brother yanked the burning bag from the table and started stomping on it to put out the fire, and the plastic from the bag stuck to his shoes, and he couldn't get the fire off his shoes, so my mom panicked even more. My cousin (who isn't always the brightest crayon in the box) picked up the centerpiece, dropped it in the sink, ran water on it to put out the flames, and saved the day. My aunt had made a brand new holiday tablecloth, and I don't know if she ever forgave up for burning a hole through it the first time we used it.
Oh, things are never dull in our house at Christmas...
* Story/Fairy Tale? Can I say a Charlie Brown Christmas again? Well, I love "'Twas the Night Before Christmas".
I can think of some other fun stuff to put on this list, but I'm feeling a little self-conscious about my list making these days, so I'll stop there. However, I found another fun list on a different tack, so here are
Some random/weird facts about me.
1. I'm fascinated by my sense of humor. I completely entertain myself, not by finding things funny, but by the kinds of things I find funny. People either think I'm great or they think I'm weird.
2. I hate it when people tell me I'm smart. I have taken my identity from it for a long time, and I've recently realized that it's unhealthy. When people say I'm smart, I feel suffocated. There's so much more to me than my brain! Besides that, I have this niggling suspicion that I'm not nearly as smart as they think I am, so I feel false, and I'm just waiting for the boom to fall on my façade.
3. I'm a project-starter, not a finisher. I get stuck in the details along the way, and just can't cope with it. I love the euphoria that comes at the beginning of projects, though.
4. Though I am one of the most open people I know, I often find myself intimidated at the thought of putting my true self out there for people to see...specifically, this applies to my writing. I think I get weirded out by the idea that my thoughts are floating around for just anyone to access. It feels kind of invasive. Why do I have a blog, then? First, I don't think anybody reads it; second, I think I've decided that it's a form of therapy for me-I need to get uncomfortable, and be okay with it. This probably would be a moot point (or as Joey says, "A moo point"), except that I think I'm supposed to be writing for someone besides myself to read.
5. I have a secret thing about celebrities. I think it's because I might covertly wish I was one. Not sure why, but yeah. There it is.
6. I hate to dust. I also hate things being dusty. It's such a catch-22.
7. I LOVE fashion. Design, style, couture, textiles, sewing, matching, cutting, Clinton, Stacy, Dior, Armani, Lauren, Bloomies, Saks, Marshall Field, Coco, Diana Vreeland, Edith Head, John Galliano; ALL of it. However, I can't get over the idea that it's frivolous.
In honor of the season, I found a même (of course). I'm drinking Mexican Hot Chocolate in my pjs and listening to Billie Holiday sing Christmas songs as I write.
Favorite Christmas Même…
* Non-Jesus-related song?
"Christmas Eve in Serejevo", by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and "Christmastime is Here" by Vince Guaraldi.
* Jesus-related song?
"Lux Venit", by Michael W. Smith I also love "Jesu Bambino", but I don't have an artist for that one.
* Santa-related song?
"Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer". I'm sorry, but I think it's hysterical. I sang it for our teacher talent show last year with Pete and the kids loved it.
* Fictional character? Huh? Santa, I guess, unless i can count Linus, since he's a cartoon, and he's in a Christmas cartoon.
* Dinner’s main course? Prime rib. We usually have ham though. :( If it's a Honeybaked, that's fine. :D
* Dinner’s dessert? We don't usually have dessert with Christmas dinner. We eat our dinner, then go to church for the Christmas Eve service, and when we come home we open our presents, have creme puffs with chocolate syrup, and then open our stockings.
* Scent (pine, gingerbread, candles…)? I found a wonderful tree variety a few years ago called Concolor-it smells like the most fabulous combination of oranges and pine. It's delicious.
* Animated movie? I'm going to have to go with "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
* Non-animated movie? "Home Alone", "While You Were Sleeping", "The Sound of Music". It has more to do with tradition than content. I love the newer "Miracle of 34th Street", but for me, that's a Thanksgiving movie.
* Personal memory? I have tons of them. One year we were opening presents in the living room and my dad was burning the wrappings in the kitchen fireplace, like usual. Someone put a plastic grocery bag of wrappings on the table for him to burn and didn't realize that the centerpiece from dinner still had a candle burning in it (it had burnt down pretty low). The bag caught fire, and chaos ensued...my sister and I each picked up one of the babies and ran with them to the far end of the house before they had any idea what was going on. My mom panicked, my dad was trying to find the source of the fire-he thought he'd done it. My brother yanked the burning bag from the table and started stomping on it to put out the fire, and the plastic from the bag stuck to his shoes, and he couldn't get the fire off his shoes, so my mom panicked even more. My cousin (who isn't always the brightest crayon in the box) picked up the centerpiece, dropped it in the sink, ran water on it to put out the flames, and saved the day. My aunt had made a brand new holiday tablecloth, and I don't know if she ever forgave up for burning a hole through it the first time we used it.
Oh, things are never dull in our house at Christmas...
* Story/Fairy Tale? Can I say a Charlie Brown Christmas again? Well, I love "'Twas the Night Before Christmas".
I can think of some other fun stuff to put on this list, but I'm feeling a little self-conscious about my list making these days, so I'll stop there. However, I found another fun list on a different tack, so here are
Some random/weird facts about me.
1. I'm fascinated by my sense of humor. I completely entertain myself, not by finding things funny, but by the kinds of things I find funny. People either think I'm great or they think I'm weird.
2. I hate it when people tell me I'm smart. I have taken my identity from it for a long time, and I've recently realized that it's unhealthy. When people say I'm smart, I feel suffocated. There's so much more to me than my brain! Besides that, I have this niggling suspicion that I'm not nearly as smart as they think I am, so I feel false, and I'm just waiting for the boom to fall on my façade.
3. I'm a project-starter, not a finisher. I get stuck in the details along the way, and just can't cope with it. I love the euphoria that comes at the beginning of projects, though.
4. Though I am one of the most open people I know, I often find myself intimidated at the thought of putting my true self out there for people to see...specifically, this applies to my writing. I think I get weirded out by the idea that my thoughts are floating around for just anyone to access. It feels kind of invasive. Why do I have a blog, then? First, I don't think anybody reads it; second, I think I've decided that it's a form of therapy for me-I need to get uncomfortable, and be okay with it. This probably would be a moot point (or as Joey says, "A moo point"), except that I think I'm supposed to be writing for someone besides myself to read.
5. I have a secret thing about celebrities. I think it's because I might covertly wish I was one. Not sure why, but yeah. There it is.
6. I hate to dust. I also hate things being dusty. It's such a catch-22.
7. I LOVE fashion. Design, style, couture, textiles, sewing, matching, cutting, Clinton, Stacy, Dior, Armani, Lauren, Bloomies, Saks, Marshall Field, Coco, Diana Vreeland, Edith Head, John Galliano; ALL of it. However, I can't get over the idea that it's frivolous.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
The Daily Grind
1. What's the very first thing you do after waking up in the morning?
I head straight for the shower. I love a steaming hot soak to wake up by.
2. Breakfast - essential energy boost or unnecessary waste of time?
I wish I could do a lingering breakfast every day, with iced melon, French omelet, café latté and champagne mimosas. However, I'm lucky if I grab a banana on the way out the door. I must have my coffee, though.
3. Are you a person of routine, or is each day a unique chaotic adventure?
I love adventure, but I'm really most functional in a structured environment.
4. Do you go to bed because you have to or collapse onto the pillow every night?
I am a night owl, and I'll stay up as long as I can.
5. Early to bed, early to rise...or I'll be up by noon?
Theoretically I'm most productive in the morning-but only if I can get myself to bed early enough for lots of sleep. (See #4) The reality is that I HAVE to get up early to be at school, and on Saturdays I sleep till about 11:30.
6. What's your nightly ritual before going to bed?
I lotion my tootsies, brush my hair with a great massaging brush, wash my face and brush my teeth. I also love total quiet and complete darkness, but I'm not obsessive about it.
I head straight for the shower. I love a steaming hot soak to wake up by.
2. Breakfast - essential energy boost or unnecessary waste of time?
I wish I could do a lingering breakfast every day, with iced melon, French omelet, café latté and champagne mimosas. However, I'm lucky if I grab a banana on the way out the door. I must have my coffee, though.
3. Are you a person of routine, or is each day a unique chaotic adventure?
I love adventure, but I'm really most functional in a structured environment.
4. Do you go to bed because you have to or collapse onto the pillow every night?
I am a night owl, and I'll stay up as long as I can.
5. Early to bed, early to rise...or I'll be up by noon?
Theoretically I'm most productive in the morning-but only if I can get myself to bed early enough for lots of sleep. (See #4) The reality is that I HAVE to get up early to be at school, and on Saturdays I sleep till about 11:30.
6. What's your nightly ritual before going to bed?
I lotion my tootsies, brush my hair with a great massaging brush, wash my face and brush my teeth. I also love total quiet and complete darkness, but I'm not obsessive about it.
I'm so excited!
Blissful Belle (who doesn't even know I exist) graciously contributed this fashion meme to today's post. (She doesn't know that, either.) I can't believe it-two of my faves in one place: lists and fashion. Hooray!
An alphabetical fashion meme
A: What accessories do you wear everyday?
Small but not tiny earrings, gold or silver ring, depends on which goes.
B: What is your beauty routine?
AM: Wash face, brush teeth, Bobbi Brown undereye miracle, foundation, concealer, powder, blush, curl eye lashes, eyeliner (optional), mascara (optional), lip liner, lipgloss
PM: Brush teeth, wash face, night guard
C: What was the last item of clothing (for yourself) that you purchased? Two turtleneck sweaters in incredible moss and persimmon colors at Stein Mart.
D: Do you use a dresser, closet, or both? Both. And a lingerie chest. The chest and dresser are the first real furniture I ever bought, and I love them both.
E: What type of earrings are in your ears right now? copper heart studs.
F: What type of figure do you have? Hourglass Amazon. (This is from Belle's answers, but it totally applies to me, too.)
G: Do you wear glasses? Yes, and they are very cool-they make me look smart.
H: What type of handbag do you carry? Depends on the outfit. Currently I have a red leather tote that holds everything. I dream of a Kelly bag from Hermès...
I: What is your ideal style? I love very classic looks, but on the casual Nantucket meets Eddie Bauer side. I also love very pretty clothes. You've seen Gwyneth? I would wear just about anything she does, if I could...
J: What jewelry are you wearing right now? None... now I'm in my pj's.
K: Do you wear knee-hi stockings? Yick. Blech. NO.
L: Do you *have* to wear matching lingerie? No. I'm lucky if I even own matching lingerie. I'm a neutrals gal.
M: Do you wear makeup? Yes, but I can mostly look like I don't.
N: Do you wear nightgowns? Nope, they bunch up. I like cotton shorts sets.
O: What outerwear do you put on when going out on a typical winters day? In Virginia, a typical winter's day requires not much more than my leather jacket and a scarf. At home in the Midwest, I don't even OWN a warm enough coat. I pray for a warm spell every year for Christmas, so I don't freeze to death.
P: What is your favorite perfume? Currently I'm loving Kate Spade Beauty.
Q: Is your motto "quality over quantity" when it comes to clothing and accessories? No way. My closet is somewhat bare bones, but everything goes with everything else, and it's all quality. Of course, I'd love for it to all be designer, but maybe someday.
R: Do you wear rain boots? No, but my grandpa always said that you need to keep your feet and head covered outside. I don't listen very well.
S: Do you wear socks or slippers when your feet get cold? Yes to both. I have pink ballerina flats that make me feel princessy, and I have thick fuzzy-wuzzy socks that make me feel very cozy-up-by-the-fire-ish. The socks also generate enough static electricity to serve as a backup generator in case my power ever fails.
T: Do you have a set of travel luggage? Yes and I love it. It's Dorsey and it is powder pink, and I wish I had Scotch-Guarded it before I ever checked it on a plane. Pink, ladies and gents, gets dirty FAST.
U: What is your daily uniform? Turtleneck, blazer and cords. I have to be comfortable.
V: If you are married, did you wear a veil with your wedding dress? Not married yet, but I'm not sure. I kind of think I might do a tiara.
W: Do you wear a watch? Yes, when I have a battery that works (not now).
X: What item of clothing always makes you feel eXtremely beautiful? Anything that looks like it was made for me.
Y: What is your favorite type of yarn? Cashmere, cashmere, cashmere.
Z: Do you prefer zippers or buttons? Zippers, I think.
I think this is going to turn out to be the most complete collection of memes on Blogspot.
An alphabetical fashion meme
A: What accessories do you wear everyday?
Small but not tiny earrings, gold or silver ring, depends on which goes.
B: What is your beauty routine?
AM: Wash face, brush teeth, Bobbi Brown undereye miracle, foundation, concealer, powder, blush, curl eye lashes, eyeliner (optional), mascara (optional), lip liner, lipgloss
PM: Brush teeth, wash face, night guard
C: What was the last item of clothing (for yourself) that you purchased? Two turtleneck sweaters in incredible moss and persimmon colors at Stein Mart.
D: Do you use a dresser, closet, or both? Both. And a lingerie chest. The chest and dresser are the first real furniture I ever bought, and I love them both.
E: What type of earrings are in your ears right now? copper heart studs.
F: What type of figure do you have? Hourglass Amazon. (This is from Belle's answers, but it totally applies to me, too.)
G: Do you wear glasses? Yes, and they are very cool-they make me look smart.
H: What type of handbag do you carry? Depends on the outfit. Currently I have a red leather tote that holds everything. I dream of a Kelly bag from Hermès...
I: What is your ideal style? I love very classic looks, but on the casual Nantucket meets Eddie Bauer side. I also love very pretty clothes. You've seen Gwyneth? I would wear just about anything she does, if I could...
J: What jewelry are you wearing right now? None... now I'm in my pj's.
K: Do you wear knee-hi stockings? Yick. Blech. NO.
L: Do you *have* to wear matching lingerie? No. I'm lucky if I even own matching lingerie. I'm a neutrals gal.
M: Do you wear makeup? Yes, but I can mostly look like I don't.
N: Do you wear nightgowns? Nope, they bunch up. I like cotton shorts sets.
O: What outerwear do you put on when going out on a typical winters day? In Virginia, a typical winter's day requires not much more than my leather jacket and a scarf. At home in the Midwest, I don't even OWN a warm enough coat. I pray for a warm spell every year for Christmas, so I don't freeze to death.
P: What is your favorite perfume? Currently I'm loving Kate Spade Beauty.
Q: Is your motto "quality over quantity" when it comes to clothing and accessories? No way. My closet is somewhat bare bones, but everything goes with everything else, and it's all quality. Of course, I'd love for it to all be designer, but maybe someday.
R: Do you wear rain boots? No, but my grandpa always said that you need to keep your feet and head covered outside. I don't listen very well.
S: Do you wear socks or slippers when your feet get cold? Yes to both. I have pink ballerina flats that make me feel princessy, and I have thick fuzzy-wuzzy socks that make me feel very cozy-up-by-the-fire-ish. The socks also generate enough static electricity to serve as a backup generator in case my power ever fails.
T: Do you have a set of travel luggage? Yes and I love it. It's Dorsey and it is powder pink, and I wish I had Scotch-Guarded it before I ever checked it on a plane. Pink, ladies and gents, gets dirty FAST.
U: What is your daily uniform? Turtleneck, blazer and cords. I have to be comfortable.
V: If you are married, did you wear a veil with your wedding dress? Not married yet, but I'm not sure. I kind of think I might do a tiara.
W: Do you wear a watch? Yes, when I have a battery that works (not now).
X: What item of clothing always makes you feel eXtremely beautiful? Anything that looks like it was made for me.
Y: What is your favorite type of yarn? Cashmere, cashmere, cashmere.
Z: Do you prefer zippers or buttons? Zippers, I think.
I think this is going to turn out to be the most complete collection of memes on Blogspot.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Thanksgiving Thanks
I just realized with all the lists I've been making, I haven't made a list of the things I am thankful for. Shame on me! Here goes...
1. I am thankful first for a God to be thankful to. Thanks, God-for all Your blessings.
2. I am so thankful for my incredible family:
Mom and Dad, who love me so unconditionally, and who are the most kind and considerate, giving people I know.
My sister Angie, and for the incredible relationship we have. Who would have EVER thought we'd be such close friends back in the days we used to be so mean to each other? Thank God there's forgiveness and grace for childhood angst between sisters.
Troy, who is the most covertly thoughtful and giving brother in the world. I know you don't want anyone to know it, but you're amazing. I love you, kid...even though you're not a kid, you'll always be about 19 to me.
Jeff, the best blessing that has happened to our family in the last 14 years. You're an incredible brother-in-law, but an even more incredible friend. I love the perspective you bring and the relationship that we've cultivated during these years. You're the best.
Caleb, my baby nephew who's not a baby anymore. :P I love the way you think, Caleb. I am so thankful that we have such a special bond between our brains, and that it goes between our hearts, too. You are the most amazing 9 year old I know.
David, you are the most thoughtful and helpful kid I know. I love you so much, and I appreciate your heart that jumps to help as soon as you see a need. You're incredible.
Jaren, I love your creativity, your smile, and your laugh. You are a true artist, and I can't wait to see where your talents take you. I love you so much, and I can't wait to tickle you when I get home and hear that wonderful giggle. You are awesome.
Annalese, what a wonderful princess you are. You are such a sweet girl, and I love you with all my heart. I love the way you remind me to be a little girl again. You are precious.
Selah, for being such a miracle of grace. You are a sweetheart, and I love you dearly. I am so thankful that you are our baby. I can't wait to see how you grow.
For the rest of my incredible family-my two amazing grandmas, my super aunts and uncles, cousins and cousin-in-laws, and children of everyone...you are awesome, and I am so thankful for you all!
3. For a good job doing fun and worthwhile work, and for making a decent salary doing it.
4. For my cosy apartment (with its Christmas tree!), and a safe place to live.
5. For my dear, dear friends far away who I love and value so much: Shari and family, Hallie Beth, Holly (Happy belated birthday!), Jenni Jo, Lora (who persists in being my friend even though I am terrible at staying in touch), Carrie, Kay, Becca and Amanda, who's not so far, but feels like it sometimes! You are all the best friends a girl could ever have!
6. For finally finding a wonderful church family, with a whole crowd of new friends and family, including my new set of little sisters: Ash, Jen, Erica, Angelique, Madelein, Alyse, and Erica. For people who take the resources to share life in my direction: Duane and Marie, George and Patsy, Jim and Bonnie, Steven and Jeana, Liz and Tony, and Ken and Michelle, and everyone else. I thank God for all of you.
7. I am so thankful for good health. I take it for granted so often, but it is truly such a blessing.
8. For peace in the streets of my city. There are so many who live in constant fear and war, I am grateful that I am not one of them. God bless and protect those who are in such situations, and I pray for peace in places like Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan, Somalia, and elsewhere as quickly as possible.
9. For a sound mind, and a creative spirit.
10. For music in my heart and the ability to express it effectively. I'm not sure how my life would be without music, and I'd hate to ever know.
There are about a million other things I'm thankful for this weekend and all the rest of the time, too-but those are the main ones. I am so blessed.
1. I am thankful first for a God to be thankful to. Thanks, God-for all Your blessings.
2. I am so thankful for my incredible family:
Mom and Dad, who love me so unconditionally, and who are the most kind and considerate, giving people I know.
My sister Angie, and for the incredible relationship we have. Who would have EVER thought we'd be such close friends back in the days we used to be so mean to each other? Thank God there's forgiveness and grace for childhood angst between sisters.
Troy, who is the most covertly thoughtful and giving brother in the world. I know you don't want anyone to know it, but you're amazing. I love you, kid...even though you're not a kid, you'll always be about 19 to me.
Jeff, the best blessing that has happened to our family in the last 14 years. You're an incredible brother-in-law, but an even more incredible friend. I love the perspective you bring and the relationship that we've cultivated during these years. You're the best.
Caleb, my baby nephew who's not a baby anymore. :P I love the way you think, Caleb. I am so thankful that we have such a special bond between our brains, and that it goes between our hearts, too. You are the most amazing 9 year old I know.
David, you are the most thoughtful and helpful kid I know. I love you so much, and I appreciate your heart that jumps to help as soon as you see a need. You're incredible.
Jaren, I love your creativity, your smile, and your laugh. You are a true artist, and I can't wait to see where your talents take you. I love you so much, and I can't wait to tickle you when I get home and hear that wonderful giggle. You are awesome.
Annalese, what a wonderful princess you are. You are such a sweet girl, and I love you with all my heart. I love the way you remind me to be a little girl again. You are precious.
Selah, for being such a miracle of grace. You are a sweetheart, and I love you dearly. I am so thankful that you are our baby. I can't wait to see how you grow.
For the rest of my incredible family-my two amazing grandmas, my super aunts and uncles, cousins and cousin-in-laws, and children of everyone...you are awesome, and I am so thankful for you all!
3. For a good job doing fun and worthwhile work, and for making a decent salary doing it.
4. For my cosy apartment (with its Christmas tree!), and a safe place to live.
5. For my dear, dear friends far away who I love and value so much: Shari and family, Hallie Beth, Holly (Happy belated birthday!), Jenni Jo, Lora (who persists in being my friend even though I am terrible at staying in touch), Carrie, Kay, Becca and Amanda, who's not so far, but feels like it sometimes! You are all the best friends a girl could ever have!
6. For finally finding a wonderful church family, with a whole crowd of new friends and family, including my new set of little sisters: Ash, Jen, Erica, Angelique, Madelein, Alyse, and Erica. For people who take the resources to share life in my direction: Duane and Marie, George and Patsy, Jim and Bonnie, Steven and Jeana, Liz and Tony, and Ken and Michelle, and everyone else. I thank God for all of you.
7. I am so thankful for good health. I take it for granted so often, but it is truly such a blessing.
8. For peace in the streets of my city. There are so many who live in constant fear and war, I am grateful that I am not one of them. God bless and protect those who are in such situations, and I pray for peace in places like Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan, Somalia, and elsewhere as quickly as possible.
9. For a sound mind, and a creative spirit.
10. For music in my heart and the ability to express it effectively. I'm not sure how my life would be without music, and I'd hate to ever know.
There are about a million other things I'm thankful for this weekend and all the rest of the time, too-but those are the main ones. I am so blessed.
Friday Fill-in #47
Friday Fill-in #47
From Janet at http://fridayfillins.blogspot.com/
1. I enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews more than anything else.
2. Blogging satisfies my need for making lists.
3. When I look at a full moon, I feel awestruck.
4. If I want a snack, I usually reach for a handful of almonds.
5. The most recent movie I saw, Miracle on 34th Street made me nostalgic.
6. If only I could figure out how to get a good paying and rewarding job closer to my family.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to chilling out with a movie, tomorrow my plans include church and Sunday, I want to get to bed early.
From Janet at http://fridayfillins.blogspot.com/
1. I enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews more than anything else.
2. Blogging satisfies my need for making lists.
3. When I look at a full moon, I feel awestruck.
4. If I want a snack, I usually reach for a handful of almonds.
5. The most recent movie I saw, Miracle on 34th Street made me nostalgic.
6. If only I could figure out how to get a good paying and rewarding job closer to my family.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to chilling out with a movie, tomorrow my plans include church and Sunday, I want to get to bed early.
A, B, C...
I borrowed this from Libby at A Study of Schoolbooks and Shoes:
A-Available or single? Er, confused. If someone will tell me the distinction between available and single then I'll tell you which category I fall under. I think I'm both.
B-Best Friend? Depends on the subcategory. College-Hallie, Cleveland-Holly, Married-Shari, Virginia-Amanda, High School-Jenni, etc, etc...
C-Cake or pie? Key Lime Pie
D-Drink of choice? Grande Hazelnut Skim Latte
E-Essential item I use everyday? pen/pencil and paper
F-Favorite colors? Indigo, Scarlet, Periwinkle, Black, and Yellow Cream.
G-Gummy Bears or Gummy Worms? neither, gummy anything is gross.
H-Hometown? Orrville, Ohio. Currently Leesburg, Virginia.
I-Indulgence? Yes. I have several, but the most tangible one is Starbucks. I could also include bubble baths (and bath products), travel, magazines, and books.
J-January or February? February. Usually there's a freakishly warm spot near the end of the month, and it's the only thing that gets me through the rest of the winter.
K-Kids and names? None yet, but I have an imaginary dog named Chandler...
L-Life is incomplete without? My family.
M-Marriage date? I'll let you know...
N-Number of siblings? Younger brother 8.5 yrs, younger sister 3.5 yrs and my (adopted) brother, my brother-in-law 2.5 yrs.
O-Oranges or apples? Depends on the season and how much work I have to do to peel the orange.
P-Phobias or fears? suspension bridges and islands. And sharks. I think that's because some moron thought it would be cute to show the Jaws movie to my class in 7th grade. I was terrified for years.
Q-Favorite quote? I have two:
"On with the dance! Let joy be unconfined..." George Gordon, Lord Byron
"Nothing is worth more than this day." Goethe
R-Reason to smile? You most often have to give me a reason NOT to.
S-Season? Fall for the colors and clothes, but Spring for the new life and flowers.
T-Tag? Dr Jill.
U-Unknown fact about me: I adore retro style.
V-Least favorite vegetable? Lima Beans.
W-what item could you not live without? my toothbrush
Y-Your favorite food? Lebanese.
Z-Zodiac? Libra
A-Available or single? Er, confused. If someone will tell me the distinction between available and single then I'll tell you which category I fall under. I think I'm both.
B-Best Friend? Depends on the subcategory. College-Hallie, Cleveland-Holly, Married-Shari, Virginia-Amanda, High School-Jenni, etc, etc...
C-Cake or pie? Key Lime Pie
D-Drink of choice? Grande Hazelnut Skim Latte
E-Essential item I use everyday? pen/pencil and paper
F-Favorite colors? Indigo, Scarlet, Periwinkle, Black, and Yellow Cream.
G-Gummy Bears or Gummy Worms? neither, gummy anything is gross.
H-Hometown? Orrville, Ohio. Currently Leesburg, Virginia.
I-Indulgence? Yes. I have several, but the most tangible one is Starbucks. I could also include bubble baths (and bath products), travel, magazines, and books.
J-January or February? February. Usually there's a freakishly warm spot near the end of the month, and it's the only thing that gets me through the rest of the winter.
K-Kids and names? None yet, but I have an imaginary dog named Chandler...
L-Life is incomplete without? My family.
M-Marriage date? I'll let you know...
N-Number of siblings? Younger brother 8.5 yrs, younger sister 3.5 yrs and my (adopted) brother, my brother-in-law 2.5 yrs.
O-Oranges or apples? Depends on the season and how much work I have to do to peel the orange.
P-Phobias or fears? suspension bridges and islands. And sharks. I think that's because some moron thought it would be cute to show the Jaws movie to my class in 7th grade. I was terrified for years.
Q-Favorite quote? I have two:
"On with the dance! Let joy be unconfined..." George Gordon, Lord Byron
"Nothing is worth more than this day." Goethe
R-Reason to smile? You most often have to give me a reason NOT to.
S-Season? Fall for the colors and clothes, but Spring for the new life and flowers.
T-Tag? Dr Jill.
U-Unknown fact about me: I adore retro style.
V-Least favorite vegetable? Lima Beans.
W-what item could you not live without? my toothbrush
Y-Your favorite food? Lebanese.
Z-Zodiac? Libra
Friday, November 23, 2007
Mêmes
Here's a meme I took from Perfectly Plump Preppy:
I give you money and send you into the grocery store to pick up 5 items. You can only pick one thing from the following departments.. what is it?
1. Produce: vine-ripe tomatoes
2. Bakery: pumpernickel bread
3. Meat: filet mignon
4. Frozen: Ben and Jerry's Mint Chocolate Chunk
5. Dairy: Extra-sharp New York Cheddar
Let's say we're heading out for a weekend getaway. You're only allowed to bring 3 articles of clothing with you. So, what's in your bag?
1. My Gap jeans
2. black cashmere turtleneck
3. Black leather jacket
If I was to listen in on your conversations throughout the day, what 3 phrases or words would I be most likely to hear?
1. That's hysterical.
2. What the heck?
3. That's awesome.
So, what 3 things do you find yourself doing every single day, and if you didn't get to do, you probably wouldn't be in the best mood?
1. Having a shower
2. Drinking my skim latte
3. Brushing my teeth
We're talking a 3 hour block with nobody around. What 5 activities might we find you doing?
1. Surfing the Web
2. Going to Starbucks with my journal or laptop.
3. Watching FRIENDS reruns; I missed it on its first run.
4. Organizing
5. Reading
We are going to the zoo. But, it looks like it could start storming, so it'll have to be a quick visit. What 3 exhibits do we have to get to?
1. Lions
2. Tigers
3. Giraffes
You just scored tickets to the taping of any show that comes on t.v. of your choice. You can pick between 4, so what are you deciding between?
1. Oprah
2. What Not to Wear
3. FRIENDS (I know it's not on any longer, but I'm only dreaming anyhow, right?)
4. Anything with Jacques Pépin
You're hungry for ice cream. I'll give you a triple dipper ice cream cone. What 3 flavors can I pile on for ya?
1. Ben and Jerry Mint Chocolate Chunk
2. Rocky Road
3. Moosetracks
Somebody stole your purse/wallet…in order to get it back, you have to name 5 things you know are inside to claim it. So, what's in there?
1. iTunes download cards from Starbucks
2. stamps
3. checkbook
4. gift cards
5. my Harris Teeter card
You are at a job fair, and asked what areas you are interested in pursuing a career in. Let's pretend you have every talent and ability to be whatever you wanted, so what 4 careers would be fun for you?
1. Doctor
2. Fashion Designer
3. Movie Star
4. Diplomat
If you could go back and talk to the old you, when you were in high school, and inform yourself of 4 things, what would you say?
1. It doesn't matter what the IN crowd thinks of you. It doesn't matter what anybody thinks.
2. Ignore the boys...they're not worth the attention yet.
3. Focus on your schoolwork-you have scholarships just waiting to be handed to you.
4. Spend more time with Tommy-he's not going to be around for long. (He died in a car crash in 1992.)
I give you money and send you into the grocery store to pick up 5 items. You can only pick one thing from the following departments.. what is it?
1. Produce: vine-ripe tomatoes
2. Bakery: pumpernickel bread
3. Meat: filet mignon
4. Frozen: Ben and Jerry's Mint Chocolate Chunk
5. Dairy: Extra-sharp New York Cheddar
Let's say we're heading out for a weekend getaway. You're only allowed to bring 3 articles of clothing with you. So, what's in your bag?
1. My Gap jeans
2. black cashmere turtleneck
3. Black leather jacket
If I was to listen in on your conversations throughout the day, what 3 phrases or words would I be most likely to hear?
1. That's hysterical.
2. What the heck?
3. That's awesome.
So, what 3 things do you find yourself doing every single day, and if you didn't get to do, you probably wouldn't be in the best mood?
1. Having a shower
2. Drinking my skim latte
3. Brushing my teeth
We're talking a 3 hour block with nobody around. What 5 activities might we find you doing?
1. Surfing the Web
2. Going to Starbucks with my journal or laptop.
3. Watching FRIENDS reruns; I missed it on its first run.
4. Organizing
5. Reading
We are going to the zoo. But, it looks like it could start storming, so it'll have to be a quick visit. What 3 exhibits do we have to get to?
1. Lions
2. Tigers
3. Giraffes
You just scored tickets to the taping of any show that comes on t.v. of your choice. You can pick between 4, so what are you deciding between?
1. Oprah
2. What Not to Wear
3. FRIENDS (I know it's not on any longer, but I'm only dreaming anyhow, right?)
4. Anything with Jacques Pépin
You're hungry for ice cream. I'll give you a triple dipper ice cream cone. What 3 flavors can I pile on for ya?
1. Ben and Jerry Mint Chocolate Chunk
2. Rocky Road
3. Moosetracks
Somebody stole your purse/wallet…in order to get it back, you have to name 5 things you know are inside to claim it. So, what's in there?
1. iTunes download cards from Starbucks
2. stamps
3. checkbook
4. gift cards
5. my Harris Teeter card
You are at a job fair, and asked what areas you are interested in pursuing a career in. Let's pretend you have every talent and ability to be whatever you wanted, so what 4 careers would be fun for you?
1. Doctor
2. Fashion Designer
3. Movie Star
4. Diplomat
If you could go back and talk to the old you, when you were in high school, and inform yourself of 4 things, what would you say?
1. It doesn't matter what the IN crowd thinks of you. It doesn't matter what anybody thinks.
2. Ignore the boys...they're not worth the attention yet.
3. Focus on your schoolwork-you have scholarships just waiting to be handed to you.
4. Spend more time with Tommy-he's not going to be around for long. (He died in a car crash in 1992.)
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Chantico
By the way, Chantico was a rich,dark, chocolate truffle-ish hot chocolate drink that Starbucks rolled and then put away in 2005. It was phenomenal. I just looked it up and it had about 400 calories in a 6 oz. cup. No wonder I loved it so much.
I found a few taste-alike recipes that I thought I'd include for anyone who wants to get an idea of what they are missing.
#1
I found a few taste-alike recipes that I thought I'd include for anyone who wants to get an idea of what they are missing.
#1
Homemade Chantico
3/4 cup warm water
3 heaping tbsp Frys Coco Powder
8 heaping tbsp sugar
2 tsp cornstarch + (1 tbsp water)
1 pinch salt
2 tsp butter (optional) Heat the water to near boiling. Reduce heat to medium. Add the coco and the sugar. Stir with a wisk for about 5 minutes to really dissolve the coco powder. In a seperat bowl, add water to cornstarch and mix until completely dissolved. (If you don't, you'll get some nasty clumps.) Add the cornstarch mix to the coco/sugar mix and wisk briskly. After a minute or so you *should* have a smooth velvety yummy drink! For more flavour, add the salt and butter. It will thicken a bit as it cools, so add just a wee bit of hot water to thin it out again. The result is a very rich dark sweet cocoa, very similar to $tarbuck$.
#2
chocolat chaud a l'ancienne
(old-fashioned hot chocolate)
3 7-ounce servings
1 1/4 C whole milk OR 1 cup evaporated milk plus 1/4 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons cornstarch
pinch kosher salt (don't omit- see comment below)
1 to 5 oounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate such as Valrhona or Ghirardelli.
(if using 3-9 tablespoons cocoa powder, see note below and add 1-3 tablespoons unsalted butter)
1 teaspoon vanilla
pinch of cinnamon, chili powder or cayenne for mystery
sweetener: up to 1/4 cup golden syrup (you could use light corn syrup) OR superfine sugar (not confectioners)
OPTIONAL 1 to 2 teaspoons of a sweet liqueur (such as dark rum or Grand Marnier), adding it with the vanilla
OR OPTIONAL 2 tablespoons ginger syrup
OPTIONAL Unsweetened or lightly sweetened whipped cream as a garnish In bowl of food processor fitted with steel blade, combine both chocolates, sugar, and salt. Cover; process at high speed just until chocolates are finely ground. Set aside near stovetop.
In a one-quart, heavy-bottomed, nonaluminum saucepan, heat milk over low heat, stirring often with small whisk, until it is steaming hot. Carefully add chopped chocolate mixture (don’t let the hot milk splash you as you do this!).
Continue cooking mixture over low heat, stirring almost constantly with whisk and scraping bottom and sides of pot with rubber spatula frequently. Mixture will steam for several minutes before coming to a boil, and as temperature increases it will thicken slightly. When mixture achieves a boil, continue cooking and stirring for just 30 to 45 seconds.
Remove from heat; whisk in vanilla and any optional ingredients. Divide among small mugs, top with light whipped cream, and serve immediately. Whipped cream isn’t mandatory as a garnish, but it actually cuts the richness and adds to the elegance. If you use a lightly sweetened whipped you will probably want to reduce the sugar or other sweetener in the drink.
If you have leftovers, cool briefly, then chill, covering tightly when cold. This will last for a day or three in the fridge. To reheat, make sure your mug is microwaveable. Heat in microwave at 50% (medium) power for short intervals, stirring well after each, just until mixture is very hot.
Try to use top-quality chocolate. If you can only get grocery store cocoa powder, it won't be quite as yummy; get Schwarzenberger's, Hershey's or Droste and add the butter.
Note: If using cocoa powder, muddle all ingredients together with a little milk, just enough to make a smooth paste, using the back of a spoon to rub the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Add a cup of milk very slowly to the paste, beating constantly to incorporate. Taste. You may want to add more milk, or any of the other ingredients to taste at this point. When you've got it right, put on the stove at low heat until it's as hot as you want it. Whisk briskly while heating and before pouring. Add a liberal dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Comments about this recipe: Yes, you really do use up to 2 ounces of chocolate in a 7 ounce serving. The cornstarch is important. It does thicken the drink slightly, but there's more. Starch is an emulsifier which keeps the cocoa butter (which is a fat) from separating and rising, preventing that dark skin on top. With this small amount, most of the skin is prevented, but more makes the drink too thick. Also, don’t omit the salt here. You use a tiny quantity, but without it the drink will taste flat.
#3
Ultra-Rich Hot Chocolate
Home made and ultra good!
4 servings
time to make 16 min
4 cups milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate or semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 pinch salt
miniature marshmallows
whipped cream (optional)
1. Bring milk, cocoa powder and sugar to simmer in heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat, whisking frequently.
2. Add chocolate; whisk until melted and smooth.
3. Add salt; bring to simmer, whisking constantly until frothy.
4. Ladle into 4 mugs.
5. Sprinkle with marshmallows or dallop of whipped cream.
6. Makes 4 servings.
For New Readers
If you are just finding my blog, I'm sure it's because I have recently found yours. I thought some of my older posts were a bit outdated, and my 100 + things posts a little ridiculous for a newcomer, so I have decided to put together a mini (less than) 100 things post to introduce myself to those who don't know me yet. Hi!
1. I am 36 years old, but I have never had someone guess my age correctly. They always guess younger, and usually it's around 27-28. Which is how old I feel, so it's ok.
2. I was born in Michigan, grew up in Ohio, and am a total Midwest girl. This is because I appreciate the values and the friendliness. I also love the summers in the Great Lakes. Not so much the winters.
3. On the other hand, I have a great big worldview compared to a lot of the Midwesterners I know. I think more about the general state of human affairs than the local high school football season. A LOT more.
4. I have lived on the Mid-Atlantic seaboard for five years. I am only just deciding that I like the D.C. area ok, but in my heart of hearts, I still love Chicago the best. Go Cubs! I dream of Michigan Avenue and a skyline overlooking gorgeous Lake Michigan.
5. I currently teach 7th grade Life Science in a pretty wealthy school district. I like life science, but since my scientific interests are largely related to humans, I get bored with a lot of the stuff I have to teach. Luckily for me, 12 and 13 year olds are never boring, whatever else they may be. This years' class is very high maintenance, which means that I come home exhausted most nights.
6. I'm currently single, I've been in true love just once, and though I am keeping my eyes open for Mr. Right, I'm not freaking out about it. I tend to like younger guys more than older ones, or even than ones who are my age. I'd love to have a family and raise kids, but for now I just live vicariously through my sister and her brood of five. They are awesome; there's no other word for them.
7. I am pretty tall, have medium brown hair and green eyes. As much as I wish I could say I am svelte, I'm not remotely, but I'm working on it. I think I'd have great legs, if I ever get there. They certainly are long enough-I can never find pants that fit right.
8. I love entertaining my friends more than doing anything else on the planet. I would love to learn to cook more like a true chef, without having to work in a restaurant. (I'd loathe the hours.) I just bought two Jacques Pépin dvd sets.
9. I have an amazing apartment. I am very blessed, though I can't have pets. I can't wait to decorate for Christmas.
10. I love gorgeous clothing more than I care to admit. I'm big on the quality over quantity philosophy. I'm a cashmere and champagne girl living on a cotton budget.
11. My favorite colors are periwinkle, creamy yellow and scarlet, but not together. I love black toile, and I want to redecorate my living room in dark brown with aqua accents.
12. If I had a dog, it would be either a Westie or a Scottish terrier named Chandler. That's right, after the guy on Friends. If I had both, one would be named Joey.
13. I think Shalom Harlow is the most exotically gorgeous woman alive. When the chunky highlights trend first came out, I put white-blond streaks in my hair modeled after a photo shoot she had in Vogue. It was an awesome look for me, but it killed my hair's health. I love that she's doing the ads for Tiffany & Co. right now.
14. I collect the Way I See It blips off the Starbucks cups, but not indiscriminately. Believe it or not, there are some pretty profound things on those cups. And some not so profound things, too. They hang on my fridge.
15. I obsess over finding the exactly appropriate word to describe things. I'm sure there's a name for this disease, and I'm sure that somewhere, there's a job doing this where people actually appreciate it. If you know of one, please share.
16. I have a mild form of dyslexia that makes me mix up letters in words. This is ironic considering that I also am OCD about spelling things correctly.
17. I avoid collecting things that need to be dusted, since I loathe dusting. Things I sort-of collect are: postcards, vintage children's fiction, Japanese tea dishes, perfume, Limoges boxes (I know this is an exception to the dusting rule, but they are awesome. I only collect the ones I absolutely adore.), cookbooks, museum art magnets, German glass-blown Christmas ornaments, and vintage magazine art. I have *some* roosters in my kitchen, but I refuse to collect them. I can just SEE the disaster that would erupt. Yikes.
18. I am a recovering procrastinator. By the grace of God, I will not live my life under the pressure of missed deadlines.
19. I can be very charming and funny, but only if people give me a chance to be. Usually they think I'm very intellectual and serious. This is not remotely true, but I apparently haven't figured out how to change the impression I make. They figure it out sooner or later as they get to know me.
20. I love music more than almost anything in the world. My iTunes has about half of my cd collection in it, and I am up to 3, 178 songs.
That's it for now. Happy Thanksgiving!
1. I am 36 years old, but I have never had someone guess my age correctly. They always guess younger, and usually it's around 27-28. Which is how old I feel, so it's ok.
2. I was born in Michigan, grew up in Ohio, and am a total Midwest girl. This is because I appreciate the values and the friendliness. I also love the summers in the Great Lakes. Not so much the winters.
3. On the other hand, I have a great big worldview compared to a lot of the Midwesterners I know. I think more about the general state of human affairs than the local high school football season. A LOT more.
4. I have lived on the Mid-Atlantic seaboard for five years. I am only just deciding that I like the D.C. area ok, but in my heart of hearts, I still love Chicago the best. Go Cubs! I dream of Michigan Avenue and a skyline overlooking gorgeous Lake Michigan.
5. I currently teach 7th grade Life Science in a pretty wealthy school district. I like life science, but since my scientific interests are largely related to humans, I get bored with a lot of the stuff I have to teach. Luckily for me, 12 and 13 year olds are never boring, whatever else they may be. This years' class is very high maintenance, which means that I come home exhausted most nights.
6. I'm currently single, I've been in true love just once, and though I am keeping my eyes open for Mr. Right, I'm not freaking out about it. I tend to like younger guys more than older ones, or even than ones who are my age. I'd love to have a family and raise kids, but for now I just live vicariously through my sister and her brood of five. They are awesome; there's no other word for them.
7. I am pretty tall, have medium brown hair and green eyes. As much as I wish I could say I am svelte, I'm not remotely, but I'm working on it. I think I'd have great legs, if I ever get there. They certainly are long enough-I can never find pants that fit right.
8. I love entertaining my friends more than doing anything else on the planet. I would love to learn to cook more like a true chef, without having to work in a restaurant. (I'd loathe the hours.) I just bought two Jacques Pépin dvd sets.
9. I have an amazing apartment. I am very blessed, though I can't have pets. I can't wait to decorate for Christmas.
10. I love gorgeous clothing more than I care to admit. I'm big on the quality over quantity philosophy. I'm a cashmere and champagne girl living on a cotton budget.
11. My favorite colors are periwinkle, creamy yellow and scarlet, but not together. I love black toile, and I want to redecorate my living room in dark brown with aqua accents.
12. If I had a dog, it would be either a Westie or a Scottish terrier named Chandler. That's right, after the guy on Friends. If I had both, one would be named Joey.
13. I think Shalom Harlow is the most exotically gorgeous woman alive. When the chunky highlights trend first came out, I put white-blond streaks in my hair modeled after a photo shoot she had in Vogue. It was an awesome look for me, but it killed my hair's health. I love that she's doing the ads for Tiffany & Co. right now.
14. I collect the Way I See It blips off the Starbucks cups, but not indiscriminately. Believe it or not, there are some pretty profound things on those cups. And some not so profound things, too. They hang on my fridge.
15. I obsess over finding the exactly appropriate word to describe things. I'm sure there's a name for this disease, and I'm sure that somewhere, there's a job doing this where people actually appreciate it. If you know of one, please share.
16. I have a mild form of dyslexia that makes me mix up letters in words. This is ironic considering that I also am OCD about spelling things correctly.
17. I avoid collecting things that need to be dusted, since I loathe dusting. Things I sort-of collect are: postcards, vintage children's fiction, Japanese tea dishes, perfume, Limoges boxes (I know this is an exception to the dusting rule, but they are awesome. I only collect the ones I absolutely adore.), cookbooks, museum art magnets, German glass-blown Christmas ornaments, and vintage magazine art. I have *some* roosters in my kitchen, but I refuse to collect them. I can just SEE the disaster that would erupt. Yikes.
18. I am a recovering procrastinator. By the grace of God, I will not live my life under the pressure of missed deadlines.
19. I can be very charming and funny, but only if people give me a chance to be. Usually they think I'm very intellectual and serious. This is not remotely true, but I apparently haven't figured out how to change the impression I make. They figure it out sooner or later as they get to know me.
20. I love music more than almost anything in the world. My iTunes has about half of my cd collection in it, and I am up to 3, 178 songs.
That's it for now. Happy Thanksgiving!
Finishing My 100
The list of interesting things about me that I began yesterday got somewhat cumbersome. Sorry about that, and if you actually made it through, I hope you found it worthwhile. As previously mentioned, I wanted to do a 100 things about me post, but in light of yesterday's epic venture, I'm just going to finish up the last 19 from that list with some original work (as opposed to the quiz answers and commentary). Read on...
82. I have an irrational fear of suspension bridges induced by video footage from the collapse of the San Francisco Bay Bridge in the late 80's.
83. I also have insulaphobia...a claustrophobic fear of islands. I'm not entirely certain, but I think this also applies to cruise ships.
84. I've secretly wanted to be an actress since the fourth grade.
85. I've got a crush on Matthew Perry, but a bigger one on John Cusack. I would LOVE to get inside his head. Besides Matt and John, Clinton Kelly is one of the few men older than me who I find attractive. On the younger side, I think Orlando Bloom is very, very sexy.
Johnny Depp, Edward Norton, and Clive Owen can all either make me fall in love with them or creep me out.
86. I've only been in love once, and it was painful. He was wrong for me, and I persist in the belief that when it's right, it won't hurt.
87. Some of my favorite holiday traditions include:
Thanksgiving-Macy's Parade and It's a Wonderful Life;
Christmas-Handel's Messiah, A Christmas Story, Home Alone, Mom's Christmas breakfast coffee ring, silly stocking stuffers, kiflis and chicken paprikas, creme puffs for grandma H., and Christmas Eve church with my family.
January 1-The Rose Bowl Parade with mom and HGTV, party with my sis and her hubby, and the Vienna Philharmonic on PBS.
Easter-photos in front of the house no matter what the weather, mom making dresses till all hours, and Easter baskets no matter how old you are.
July 4-Orrville's fireworks and carnival in the park for a week. The firemen's parade down main street and sweltering with the marching band.
88. Sometimes I wish I were a real, live princess, complete with tiara and a palace (that I don't have to clean). And a Prince Charming, I guess, too. In my head, he sort of resembles Chris Pine. I have a ridiculous collection of princess books and movies-including Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and of course the Princess Diaries.
89. I have a magazine fetish. I subscribed to Victoria for ten years, and then retired all except my favorites to my best friend. I currently subscribe to Sunset, Midwest Living, House and Garden, Travelgirl, and Cook's Illustrated. I'm also a regular purchaser of Simple Living, Town and Country, and Oprah's O magazine. I also have been know to swipe the occasional doctor's office Southern Living for the recipes. My favorite magazine ever (Weekend) folded within a year of beginning publication.
90. I have an elaborate airport ritual. It includes (but is not limited to) Starbucks, an international magazine purchase, and Olympic people watching. For some inexplicable reason, I always order tomato juice on the plane; I never drink it on the ground. I also always try to get window seats.
91. While in college/grad school, I have studied/majored in: piano performance, vocal performance, International Law, English, French, Chemistry, Biology, Physician Assistant Studies, Education, Gifted Education and Public Health Education.
92. My favorite singers on the planet are Bono and Sting. I cried when Pavarotti died.
93. When I was 13, I carried Kirk Cameron's photo around in my wallet. Ironically, when I was 13, I also had a crush on my classmate Richie Thomas, who bore more than a passing resemblance to Kirk. More ironically, I hear Richie is now working in television.
94. I have an unhealthy obsession with the style of Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Jackie Kennedy. I love, LOVE classic. Celebrities I currently think of as classic are Charlize Theron, Anne Hathaway, Uma Therman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Garner, Reese Whitherspoon and Kate Beckinsale and the Miller sisters. I also need to place my best friend Shari into this category. She's one of the classiest people I know.
95. I can count to ten in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and to three in German.
96. I have no fewer than 16 different designer perfumes in my bathroom.
97. I adore Chicago architecture, Amsterdam coffee, and the views of LA from the Getty. Flying over the Sahara and the Alps, and going on safari have been the highlights of my life adventures so far.
98. I think I'm secretly in love with either a guy named Michael I met briefly in college 15 years ago who introduced me to REM, or a guy named Andrew whose last name I don't even know who was studying to be a priest at last contact. I think the only near-perfect guy for me I've ever known might have been another college friend (nameless) who is now married with two kids and (coincidentally) moving to my area next year.
99. I love the songs Lady In Red, Fragile, and In Your Eyes. I could probably add about 100 more to that list if you gave me about 10 minutes. I also have a song for every boy I've ever majorly crushed on. The one I was in love with got several songs, including My Funny Valentine, The Luckiest, Guess I Was a Fool, I Used to Love Him. Just about in that order, too. Ha, funny.
100. I have no boundaries when it comes to bedtimes. It's 3:59 AM, as I type. Good NIGHT.
82. I have an irrational fear of suspension bridges induced by video footage from the collapse of the San Francisco Bay Bridge in the late 80's.
83. I also have insulaphobia...a claustrophobic fear of islands. I'm not entirely certain, but I think this also applies to cruise ships.
84. I've secretly wanted to be an actress since the fourth grade.
85. I've got a crush on Matthew Perry, but a bigger one on John Cusack. I would LOVE to get inside his head. Besides Matt and John, Clinton Kelly is one of the few men older than me who I find attractive. On the younger side, I think Orlando Bloom is very, very sexy.
Johnny Depp, Edward Norton, and Clive Owen can all either make me fall in love with them or creep me out.
86. I've only been in love once, and it was painful. He was wrong for me, and I persist in the belief that when it's right, it won't hurt.
87. Some of my favorite holiday traditions include:
Thanksgiving-Macy's Parade and It's a Wonderful Life;
Christmas-Handel's Messiah, A Christmas Story, Home Alone, Mom's Christmas breakfast coffee ring, silly stocking stuffers, kiflis and chicken paprikas, creme puffs for grandma H., and Christmas Eve church with my family.
January 1-The Rose Bowl Parade with mom and HGTV, party with my sis and her hubby, and the Vienna Philharmonic on PBS.
Easter-photos in front of the house no matter what the weather, mom making dresses till all hours, and Easter baskets no matter how old you are.
July 4-Orrville's fireworks and carnival in the park for a week. The firemen's parade down main street and sweltering with the marching band.
88. Sometimes I wish I were a real, live princess, complete with tiara and a palace (that I don't have to clean). And a Prince Charming, I guess, too. In my head, he sort of resembles Chris Pine. I have a ridiculous collection of princess books and movies-including Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and of course the Princess Diaries.
89. I have a magazine fetish. I subscribed to Victoria for ten years, and then retired all except my favorites to my best friend. I currently subscribe to Sunset, Midwest Living, House and Garden, Travelgirl, and Cook's Illustrated. I'm also a regular purchaser of Simple Living, Town and Country, and Oprah's O magazine. I also have been know to swipe the occasional doctor's office Southern Living for the recipes. My favorite magazine ever (Weekend) folded within a year of beginning publication.
90. I have an elaborate airport ritual. It includes (but is not limited to) Starbucks, an international magazine purchase, and Olympic people watching. For some inexplicable reason, I always order tomato juice on the plane; I never drink it on the ground. I also always try to get window seats.
91. While in college/grad school, I have studied/majored in: piano performance, vocal performance, International Law, English, French, Chemistry, Biology, Physician Assistant Studies, Education, Gifted Education and Public Health Education.
92. My favorite singers on the planet are Bono and Sting. I cried when Pavarotti died.
93. When I was 13, I carried Kirk Cameron's photo around in my wallet. Ironically, when I was 13, I also had a crush on my classmate Richie Thomas, who bore more than a passing resemblance to Kirk. More ironically, I hear Richie is now working in television.
94. I have an unhealthy obsession with the style of Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Jackie Kennedy. I love, LOVE classic. Celebrities I currently think of as classic are Charlize Theron, Anne Hathaway, Uma Therman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Garner, Reese Whitherspoon and Kate Beckinsale and the Miller sisters. I also need to place my best friend Shari into this category. She's one of the classiest people I know.
95. I can count to ten in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and to three in German.
96. I have no fewer than 16 different designer perfumes in my bathroom.
97. I adore Chicago architecture, Amsterdam coffee, and the views of LA from the Getty. Flying over the Sahara and the Alps, and going on safari have been the highlights of my life adventures so far.
98. I think I'm secretly in love with either a guy named Michael I met briefly in college 15 years ago who introduced me to REM, or a guy named Andrew whose last name I don't even know who was studying to be a priest at last contact. I think the only near-perfect guy for me I've ever known might have been another college friend (nameless) who is now married with two kids and (coincidentally) moving to my area next year.
99. I love the songs Lady In Red, Fragile, and In Your Eyes. I could probably add about 100 more to that list if you gave me about 10 minutes. I also have a song for every boy I've ever majorly crushed on. The one I was in love with got several songs, including My Funny Valentine, The Luckiest, Guess I Was a Fool, I Used to Love Him. Just about in that order, too. Ha, funny.
100. I have no boundaries when it comes to bedtimes. It's 3:59 AM, as I type. Good NIGHT.
Mêmes
I've recently discovered memes, which (as near as I can figure out) are fun lists of things random. Goody, goody, goody-my favorite!
Here's a Home Meme from Perfectly Plump Preppy:
1. What kind of SOAP is in your bathtub right now?
Caswell-Massey Olive Oil and Orange Blossom. I'm traumatized because I think they are discontinuing this fragrance, and it's my favorite.
2. Do you have any watermelon in your refrigerator?
No, I don't like it, so it's never there.
3. What would you change about your living room?
I need plantation blinds on the windows, and a new couch. I also would love to get two of these incredible Jacob chairs from Pier One.
4. Are the dishes in your dishwasher clean or dirty?
Clean, but only just...
5. What is in your fridge?
Cheese, skim milk, dijon mustard, ketchup, eggs, butter, and a leftover felafel.
6. White or wheat bread?
Pumpernickel or Sourdough, actually. I've always been a nonconformist.
7. What is on top of your refrigerator?
A wooden tray made especially for me in Sweden that holds my coffee and tea condiments.
8. What color or design is on your shower curtain?
It is white cotton with Battenberg lace. Not exactly me, but classy and the price was right.
9. How many plants are in your home?
Seven. I wish I had more.
10. Is your bed made right now?
Sort of.
11. Comet or Soft Scrub?
Comet.
12. Is your closet organized?
Ummm, right. The principles are there, but the execution is somewhat elusive.
13. Can you describe your flashlight?
Red Maglight.
14. Do you drink out of glass or plastic most of the time at home?
Glass or ceramic Starbucks mugs from major cities I've visited. I mostly drink coffee at home.
15. Do you have iced tea made in a pitcher right now?
No, I like tea in the summer.
16. If you have a garage, is it cluttered?
No garage, very little storage. :(
17. Curtains or blinds?
White paper blinds in the bedrooms, and nothing on the living room; bamboo rolldown shade in the kitchen. None of this is my preference, but it's ok.
18. How many pillows do you sleep with?
Five. I don't know what I'm going to do when I get married.
19. Do you sleep with any lights on at night?
No.
20. How often do you vacuum?
It's broken at the moment...
21. Standard toothbrush or electric?
Standard.
22. What color is your toothbrush?
white/blue
23. Do you have a welcome mat on your front porch?
Yes, it's a brown rattan.
24. What is in your oven right now?
Oven racks and a mess on the bottom that I haven't had the courage to deal with.
25. Is there anything under your bed?
a keyboard and dust.
26. Chore you hate doing the most?
Dusting.
27. What retro items are in your home?
some art, some clothes, lots of books and architectural magazines.
28. Do you have a separate room that you use as an office?
Theoretically, yes. I have a spare room which I call the office but little actual work happens there. Not sure what to do about this. I do my best work at Starbucks.
29. How many mirrors are in your home?
Seven.
30. Do you have any hidden emergency money around your home?
Lots of change in an urn from Tijuana on the mantle.
31. What color are your walls?
Caffe latte in the dining and living rooms. Red with black cabinets in the kitchen. The bedroom and master bath are shades of periwnkle, and the spare room/office is creamy yellow. The hall bathroom is a sort of light peachy sunset color. NOT how it was supposed to look.
32. Do you keep any kind of protection weapons in your home?
Do 3 inch heels count?
33. What does your home smell like right now?
Laundry softener.
34. Favorite candle scent?
Clean cotton/linen, summer rain...oh, I also love Target's orange and clove for Christmastime.
35. What kind of pickles (if any) are in your refrigerator right now?
None, but I like Tony Paco's Pickles and Peppers. Can't find them here in NoVA.
36. What color is your favorite Bible?
Burgundy.
37. Ever been on your roof?
No. I have no idea how to get there, even if I wanted to go.
38. Do you own a stereo?
Not really. I have a little boom box with cd player. I have great speakers on my computer and my itunes is chock full of my collection. I also have XM Radio on my DirecTV.
39. How many TVs do you have?
One, in the bedroom.
40. How many house phones?
I only use my cell now, so it seems senseless to have a landline that no one ever calls. Sooner or later I'll get rid of it.
41. Do you have a housekeeper?
No but I'd LOVE to have someone in every week or two for cleaning. It's totally frivolous, so no.
42. What style do you decorate in?
Streamlined traditional, at the moment. I vascillate between retro and Arts and Crafts. A little bit country and a little bit rock 'n roll.
43. Do you like solid colors in furniture or prints?
Solid, preferably. Toile can be super classy if it's not overdone, though.
44. Is there a smoke detector in your home?
One. I have no idea if it works.
45. In case of fire, what are the items in your house which you’d grab if you only could make one quick trip?
I'd grab my emergency folder with my passport, etc. in it, my external hard drive to my computer, my kids' art folder, and my Empire Red Artisan KitchenAid. (It was such a frivolous purchase, i know I'd never buy another one.) If I had time, I'd also get my jewelry, christmas ornament, and my journals.
Here's a Home Meme from Perfectly Plump Preppy:
1. What kind of SOAP is in your bathtub right now?
Caswell-Massey Olive Oil and Orange Blossom. I'm traumatized because I think they are discontinuing this fragrance, and it's my favorite.
2. Do you have any watermelon in your refrigerator?
No, I don't like it, so it's never there.
3. What would you change about your living room?
I need plantation blinds on the windows, and a new couch. I also would love to get two of these incredible Jacob chairs from Pier One.
4. Are the dishes in your dishwasher clean or dirty?
Clean, but only just...
5. What is in your fridge?
Cheese, skim milk, dijon mustard, ketchup, eggs, butter, and a leftover felafel.
6. White or wheat bread?
Pumpernickel or Sourdough, actually. I've always been a nonconformist.
7. What is on top of your refrigerator?
A wooden tray made especially for me in Sweden that holds my coffee and tea condiments.
8. What color or design is on your shower curtain?
It is white cotton with Battenberg lace. Not exactly me, but classy and the price was right.
9. How many plants are in your home?
Seven. I wish I had more.
10. Is your bed made right now?
Sort of.
11. Comet or Soft Scrub?
Comet.
12. Is your closet organized?
Ummm, right. The principles are there, but the execution is somewhat elusive.
13. Can you describe your flashlight?
Red Maglight.
14. Do you drink out of glass or plastic most of the time at home?
Glass or ceramic Starbucks mugs from major cities I've visited. I mostly drink coffee at home.
15. Do you have iced tea made in a pitcher right now?
No, I like tea in the summer.
16. If you have a garage, is it cluttered?
No garage, very little storage. :(
17. Curtains or blinds?
White paper blinds in the bedrooms, and nothing on the living room; bamboo rolldown shade in the kitchen. None of this is my preference, but it's ok.
18. How many pillows do you sleep with?
Five. I don't know what I'm going to do when I get married.
19. Do you sleep with any lights on at night?
No.
20. How often do you vacuum?
It's broken at the moment...
21. Standard toothbrush or electric?
Standard.
22. What color is your toothbrush?
white/blue
23. Do you have a welcome mat on your front porch?
Yes, it's a brown rattan.
24. What is in your oven right now?
Oven racks and a mess on the bottom that I haven't had the courage to deal with.
25. Is there anything under your bed?
a keyboard and dust.
26. Chore you hate doing the most?
Dusting.
27. What retro items are in your home?
some art, some clothes, lots of books and architectural magazines.
28. Do you have a separate room that you use as an office?
Theoretically, yes. I have a spare room which I call the office but little actual work happens there. Not sure what to do about this. I do my best work at Starbucks.
29. How many mirrors are in your home?
Seven.
30. Do you have any hidden emergency money around your home?
Lots of change in an urn from Tijuana on the mantle.
31. What color are your walls?
Caffe latte in the dining and living rooms. Red with black cabinets in the kitchen. The bedroom and master bath are shades of periwnkle, and the spare room/office is creamy yellow. The hall bathroom is a sort of light peachy sunset color. NOT how it was supposed to look.
32. Do you keep any kind of protection weapons in your home?
Do 3 inch heels count?
33. What does your home smell like right now?
Laundry softener.
34. Favorite candle scent?
Clean cotton/linen, summer rain...oh, I also love Target's orange and clove for Christmastime.
35. What kind of pickles (if any) are in your refrigerator right now?
None, but I like Tony Paco's Pickles and Peppers. Can't find them here in NoVA.
36. What color is your favorite Bible?
Burgundy.
37. Ever been on your roof?
No. I have no idea how to get there, even if I wanted to go.
38. Do you own a stereo?
Not really. I have a little boom box with cd player. I have great speakers on my computer and my itunes is chock full of my collection. I also have XM Radio on my DirecTV.
39. How many TVs do you have?
One, in the bedroom.
40. How many house phones?
I only use my cell now, so it seems senseless to have a landline that no one ever calls. Sooner or later I'll get rid of it.
41. Do you have a housekeeper?
No but I'd LOVE to have someone in every week or two for cleaning. It's totally frivolous, so no.
42. What style do you decorate in?
Streamlined traditional, at the moment. I vascillate between retro and Arts and Crafts. A little bit country and a little bit rock 'n roll.
43. Do you like solid colors in furniture or prints?
Solid, preferably. Toile can be super classy if it's not overdone, though.
44. Is there a smoke detector in your home?
One. I have no idea if it works.
45. In case of fire, what are the items in your house which you’d grab if you only could make one quick trip?
I'd grab my emergency folder with my passport, etc. in it, my external hard drive to my computer, my kids' art folder, and my Empire Red Artisan KitchenAid. (It was such a frivolous purchase, i know I'd never buy another one.) If I had time, I'd also get my jewelry, christmas ornament, and my journals.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Back, and Better Than Ever!
I forgot I had this blog. I found the most fun genre of bloggers (Preppy Girls) yesterday, and decided to join them and create one of my own. In the process, Chantico came up and I got to reading some of the old posts. Though it feels my life has changed drastically since the last post, some of the old posts are fun, so I have decided to hang out here again. I'm sure at some point I'll want to update all my life details since last year, but right now I'm in a frivolous mood. Read on, and prepare to laugh. (You might want to go get a cup of coffee. It's ok, I'll wait...)
I got stuck on Blogthings last night taking silly quizzes, and here are some of the little-known "facts" about me I found interesting:
NOTE: I've just finished this, and it is REALLY long. But interesting-complete with commentary.
1.You Should Drive a BMW 
Refined and classy, you want a car that looks rich... and goes fast!
NOTE: I'm IN-where do I pick it up?
2. Your Career Type: Artistic
You are expressive, original, and independent. Your talents lie in your artistic abilities: creative writing, drama, crafts, music, or art. You would make an excellent:
Actor - Art Teacher - Book Editor
Clothes Designer - Comedian - Composer
Dancer - DJ - Graphic Designer
Illustrator - Musician - Sculptor
The worst career options for your are conventional careers, like bank teller or secretary.
NOTE: Not sure about this one, but I KNOW that they are right on about the worst options...
3. You Are New York (vs LA) 
Cosmopolitan and sophisticated, you enjoy the newest in food, art, and culture. You also appreciate a good amount of grit - and very little shocks you. You're competitive, driven, and very likely to succeed.
NOTE: Cool, except for the competitive, driven part. Which I think puts me out the the running as a New Yorker.
4. You Should Date A Swede! 
You're a romantic, albeit an understated and practical one. It's more about a steady partnership for you, not unrestrained falling. Your Swede will give you the unwavering love you crave. While making up some mean pancakes and meatballs on the side!
NOTE: You'll find that there is an interesting Sweden theme going on throughout this. I love Sweden-in the summer. And Swedish men can be gorgeous!
5.
I love it!
6.
I'm a purple crayon
7. My date fashion style is Classy. Since I like younger guys more often, it's kind of no wonder I never have a date.
8. My dream proposal is a snowy holiday one. This is unexpected, but right on-I'd love to be proposed to in NYC at Christmastime.
9. My dream honeymoon is Europe. I like this idea. Got to find Mr. Wonderful first, though.
10. I'm a 52% Conservative Chick. This is also right on. I'm morally conservative, and socio-politically liberal. I NEVER know who to vote for. It makes me crazy.
11. I'm an Uptown Girl. (wannabe) I'm really just a country girl in the suburbs of a big city.
12. I go for brains in a guy. But I do like a guy who's in shape-or at least a little thinner than not. I don't go for the teddy bear type very often.
13. I'm an "It" girl. I have no idea what that means.
14. Your Superpower Should Be Mind Reading 
You are brilliant, insightful, and intuitive. You understand people better than they would like to be understood.
Highly sensitive, you are good at putting together seemingly irrelevant details. You figure out what's going on before anyone knows that anything is going on! Why you would be a good superhero: You don't care what people think, and you'd do whatever needed to be done. Your biggest problem as a superhero: Feeling even more isolated than you do now.
Scroll to the bottom to see which superheroine this is...
15. You Are Upper Middle Class 
You're stuck in an interesting middle area between upper and middle class. You're wealthy enough for most people to call you rich (or at least comfortable), but you don't feel rich! Climbing your way to the top is hard work. And you've often feel stretched for time and resources. If only you had a little more money! You can't help but wish you had the lifestyle of the upper class. You may end up: A manager, high school teacher, or accountant. Other people who share your class: "White collar" professionals and business people.
Again, I think this is more of a wannabe. Definitely not how I truly class myself. Hmm-I need to think about that statement.
16. Your California type: You Belong in San Francisco 
You crave an eclectic, urban environment. You're half California, half NYC. You're open minded, tolerant, and secretly think you're the best. People may dismiss you as a hippie, but you're also progressive, interesting, and rich!
Not a hippie, and NOT rich. But I like San Francisco...
17. Your Modern Bombshell look is Charlize Theron 
24. You are a Believer 
You believe in God and your chosen religion. Whether you're Christian, Muslim, Jewish, or Hindu..
Your convictions are strong and unwavering. You think your religion is the one true way, for everyone.
Note: I'm a Christian.
25. Your Celebrity Style Twin is Gwen Stefani 
Trendsetting, unique, and stylish.
Again, this is a surprise. I'm not too sure I like her style...
26. The Part of You That No One Sees
You are wise, insightful, and brilliant. Your wit is sharp and occasionally hurtful...revealing your scorn for people with less intelligence. Underneath it all, you feel burdened by the stupidity of humanity. You know what's right in the world, but it's overshadowed by everything that's wrong. People see you as arrogant. While this is partially true, you are also very sensitive.
Shocker: This is very correct when I'm feeling my most egocentric. Thankfully, I've gotten a lot better about this.
27. Your Personality is Very Rare (INFP)
Your personality type is dreamy, romantic, elegant, and expressive. Only about 5% of all people have your personality, including 6% of all women and 4% of all men. You are Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving.
Note: This is totally me. mom always said I was a one of a kind!
28. Your Love Type: INTP 
The Thinker
In love, you are honest and serious about commitment. For you, sex is something you think about and desire a lot of the time. Overall, you are pure in your affection and feelings. However, you tend to be suspicious and distrusting at times. Best matches: ENTJ and ESTJ
29. The True You
You want your girlfriend or boyfriend to be more relaxed, calm, and composed.With respect to money, you spend as little as possible. You think good luck will definitely be yours, someday. The hidden side of your personality tends to be a little selfish. You only do what interests you. You are tend to think about others' feelings a lot, perhaps because you are so eager to be liked. When it comes to finding a romantic partner, you don't have any particular type in mind, but you are inclined to look for someone who will say yes when you ask him / her out.
30.You Should Maybe Go to Grad School 
Grad school may be the right choice for you, but you need to investigate further. So put those studying skill to use, and pick a program that's perfect for you. And make sure you're going for the right reasons - not just to avoid getting a job.
No wonder I've been ambivalent about grad school.
31. You Belong in Paris 
Stylish and expressive, you were meant for Paris. The art, the fashion, the wine! Whether you're enjoying the cafe life or a beautiful park...you'll love living in the most chic place on earth.
Where do I sign up??
32. Your Vocabulary Score: A+ 
Congratulations on your multifarious vocabulary! You must be quite an erudite person.
Oh, brother.
33. You Are 72% Intuitive
You are a very intuitive person. And luckily, your intuition is normally right. You're wise enough to know that relying on intuition alone can be dangerous. When your intuition seems really off, you tend to ignore it - and look at the facts instead.
Note: This is also right on.
34. You Are Expressionism 
Moody, emotional, and even a bit angsty... you certainly know how to express your emotions.
At times, you tend to lack perspective on your life, probably as a result of looking inward too much.
This introspection does give you a flair for the dramatic. And it's even maybe made you cultivate some artistic talents! You have a true artist's temperament... which is a blessing and a curse.
Hidden trait: It's true, I do have a bit of the dramatic in me. I try to submerse it in reason, and as a result, it only truly comes out when I'm alone or stressed.
35. You Are A Realistic Romantic 
It's easy for you to get swept away by romance...but you've done a pretty good job keeping perspective.
You're still taken in by love poems and sunsets. You just don't fall for every dreamy pick up line!
(NOTE: I'm listening to someone else's blog music and I just realized that I would like Fergie, if she'd JUST sing. )
36. You Belong in the UK
Blimey!A little proper, a little saucy.You're so witty and charming...No one notices your curry breath.
Curry gives me the runs.
37. Your SAT Score of 1370 Means: 
You Scored Higher Than Howard Stern
You Scored Higher Than George W. Bush
You Scored Higher Than Al Gore
You Scored Lower Than David Duchovny
You Scored Lower Than Natalie Portman
You Scored Lower Than Bill Gates
Your IQ is most likely in the 130-140 range
Equivalent ACT score: 31
Schools that Fit Your SAT Score:
Brown University
Northwestern University
Carnegie Mellon University
Cornell University
Reed College
Note: I think if I could go back and do it all over again, I'd go to Northwestern.
38. What Your Handwriting Says About You
You are a fairly energetic person. You know how do pace yourself, and you deal well with stress.
You are somewhat outgoing, but you're not a natural extrovert. You think first before you act. You tend to be independent, rational, and logical.
You are very detail oriented and meticulous. You are a careful thinker and a true intellectual.
You need a bit of space in your life, but you're not a recluse. You expect people to give you a small amount of privacy, and you respect their privacy as well.
You are somewhat traditional, but you are also open to change. You listen to your head and your heart.
You are a decent communicator. You eventually get your point across, but sometimes you leave things a bit ambiguous.
This is so true, it's almost scary. Except for the stress part. Well, I deal well with other people's stress.
39. You've Experienced 64% of Life
You have all of the life experience that most adults will ever get.
And unless you're already in your 40s, you're probably wise beyond your years.
How about that?
40. Your Travel Profile:
You Are Extremely Well Traveled in
the Midwestern United States (100%).
You Are Very Well Traveled in
the Southern United States (77%).
You Are Somewhat Well Traveled in
Scandinavia (40%), the Western United States (32%), the Northeastern United States (29%), Africa (25%).
You are Mostly Untraveled in
Canada (20%) and in Western Europe (7%).
You Are Untraveled in
Asia, Australia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, Southern Europe, Middle East, United Kingdom (0%).
I need to get moving-I have lots of traveling to do.
41. Where is your Inner New Yorker? You Belong in Soho 
Although you may not be a professional artist, you do dabble in one form of art or another.
And you indie culture of all kinds - from little boutiques to art house films.
NOTE: I guess I should visit NYC before I decide where to live. Tomorrow is the Macy's Parade-one of my dream vacations. Dorky, but fun.
42. You Are An INFJ
The Protector
You live your life with integrity, originality, vision, and creativity. Independent and stubborn, you rarely stray from your vision - no matter what it is. You are an excellent listener, with almost infinite patience. You have complex, deep feelings, and you take great care to express them.
In love, you truly see relationships as an opportunity to connect and grow. You enjoy relationships as long as they are improving and changing. You can't stand stagnation.
At work, you stay motivated and happy... as long as you are working toward a dream you support.
You would make a great photographer, alternative medicine guru, or teacher.
How you see yourself: Hardworking, ethical, and helpful
When other people don't get you, they see you as: Manipulative, weak, and unstable
Yet another variation on a theme...I think my Myers-Briggs really depends on my mood.
43. What Asian Country? You Should Travel to Japan 
From freak sightings in Harajuku to awesome sashimi, you'll love Japan. And who knows? You might end up on Japanese TV!
Japanese culture is so sophisticated, but Japanese TV is entirely weird.
44. What Your Soul Really Looks Like 
You are very passionate and quite temperamental. While you can be moody, you always crave comfort.
You are a grounded person, but you also leave room for imagination and dreams. You feet may be on the ground, but you're head is in the clouds. You see yourself with pretty objective eyes. How you view yourself is almost exactly how other people view you. Your near future is likely to be filled with great successes and accomplishments. You just need to figure out how to get there. For you, love is all about caring and comfort. You couldn't fall in love with someone you didn't trust.
Again, so right on that it is weird.
45. You Are 80% Lady 
Overall, you are a refined lady with excellent manners. But you also know when to relax and not get too serious about etiquette.
I wonder what the other 20% is?
46. What Latin Country should you visit? You Should Visit Argentina 
Cowboys, European food, beaches, and skiing. This country is like no other! Learn to tango, hike across Patagonia, eat at fine restaurants... you'll never be bored.
This sounds interesting...but I've not really been drawn to Latin countries. I'm more of a Northern Europe girl, myself. Anyhow, better than Venezuela...I don't much care for big mouth dictators. I loved King Juan Carlos last week. Way to tell that loco hombre to shut up!
47. Your Inner European is Swedish! 
Relaxed and peaceful. You like to kick back and enjoy life.
What'd I just say about Northern Europe? I spent part of a summer during college in Sweden. I loved it.
48. You Belong in 1959. 
You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a little innocent. See you at the drive in!
49. American Cities That Best Fit You: 
70% Washington, DC
60% San Francisco
55% Los Angeles
55% New York City
55% Philadelphia
NOTE: I live outside D.C. Perhaps I should re-evaluate my desire to return to Chicago...
50. Your Linguistic Profile: 
60% General American English
15% Upper Midwestern
10% Yankee
5% Dixie
0% Midwestern
NOTE: I grew up in Ohio.
51. You Are Definitely a Hot Chick
While your little black book isn't as thick as Paris Hilton's...You get the most dates of any girl you know
It's your whole five star package that attracts men -Your looks, your charm, and your ability tie a cherry with your tongue.
NOTE: Not true.
52. Your Extroversion Profile: 
Cheerfulness: High
Sociability: High
Assertiveness: Medium
Friendliness: Low
Activity Level: Very Low
Excitement Seeking: Very Low
NOTE: I'm not sure about the low friendliness score...I'm often told I'm friendly. The rest of it is right on.
53. You Are an Excellent Cook 
You're a top cook, but you weren't born that way. It's taken a lot of practice, a lot of experimenting, and a lot of learning. It's likely that you have what it takes to be a top chef, should you have the desire...
I'd love, LOVE to take a year at Le Cordon Bleu just for fun.
54. You Belong in London 
You belong in London, but you belong in many cities... Hong Kong, San Francisco, Sidney. You fit in almost anywhere. And London is diverse and international enough to satisfy many of your tastes. From curry to Shakespeare, London (almost) has it all!
NOTE: London is next on my visit list anyhow.
55. People Envy Your Compassion
You have a kind heart and an unusual empathy for all living creatures. You tend to absorb others' happiness and pain. People envy your compassion, and more importantly, the connections it helps you build. And compassionate as you are, you feel for them.
56. You Are Scooter 
Brainy and knowledgable, you are the perfect sidekick. You're always willing to lend a helping hand.
In any big event or party, you're the one who keeps things going. "15 seconds to showtime!"
NOTE: This one surprised me, but I love it. He's undoubtedly my favorite Muppet, besides Kermit. He reminds me of Radar.
57. You Are 60% Independent 
Overall, you're a pretty independent woman. You don't follow trends just to fit in.
You've got your own cool thing going on, though you sometimes still care too much about what other's think.
NOTE: This picture scares me.
58. You Should Drive a Jaguar XK 4.2 
You don't care how you get there as long as you get there with class. And having a little power doesn't hurt either!
NOTE: This one is for a 2007 car, and the BMW was for a sports car. I don't care-I'll take either one.
59. You Passed 8th Grade Science
Congratulations, you got 8/8 correct!
NOTE: I majored in biology, minored in chemistry and teach 7th grade science. There'd be something seriously wrong if I didn't get a perfect score on this one.
60. You Are a Very Good Girl 
You are 90% Good and 10% Bad. You're a perfect angel - almost impossibly so. Don't you ever feel like being a little bad?!?
I think being bad is highly overrated.
61. You Are 70% "Average American" 
You are average because you wouldn't pay to go in space. You are not average since you do make New Year's resolutions.
This one is dumb, but I like the flip-flops.
62. You Passed 8th Grade Math
Congratulations, you got 10/10 correct!
NOTE: I tutored college math for 10 years, so ditto on the comment from 8th grade science.
63. Your Inner Retro Girl Is 
1960s Mod Girl
64. Your Love Life is Like Casablanca 
"Kiss me. Kiss me as if it were the last time."
For you, love is never finished. If you've loved someone once, you'll always love them. You're an old fashioned romantic... even if your relationships don't end up as romantic as you'd like. Your love style: Traditional and understated. Your Hollywood Ending Will Be: Complicated and ambiguous
Thank God my life isn't a Hollywood movie.
65. What Your Sleeping Position Says 
You are calm and rational person with a good deal of balance in your life. Friends consider you to be kind, caring, and truly loyal. You are easy going and trusting. However, you are too sensible to fall for mind games.
Open to the world, you are not afraid to be yourself. If you don't get enough sleep, you are: Able to cope
It's hard to sleep next to you because: You're a bed hog.
I'll bet everyone says this, but I'm NOT a bed hog. Everyone I've ever slept with (only girl cousins and sisters-nothing weird) has been a bed hog and I couldn't afford to be one.
66. How You Are In Love
You take a while to fall in love with someone. Trust takes time. You tend to take more than give in relationships.
You tend to get very attached when you're with someone. You want to see your love all the time. You love your partner unconditionally and don't try to make them change. You stay in love for a long time, even if you aren't loved back. When you fall, you fall hard.
This one is half and half...I'm not really possessive about seeing my true love 24/7. I also have historically given a lot more than I've taken in relationships. If anything, I need to be more willing to take.
67. Your Career Type: Investigative
You are precise, scientific, and intellectual. Your talents lie in understanding and solving math and science problems. You would make an excellent:
Architect - Biologist - Chemist-Dentist - Electrical Technician - Mathematician-Medical Technician - Meteorologist - Pharmacist-Physician - Surveyor - Veterinarian
The worst career options for your are enterprising careers, like lawyer or real estate agent.
This is funny-I think I took the same test twice with different results...I wonder what kind of careers are out there for artistic investigative types? They're still right about worst careers...ick.
NOTE: Always by Bon Jovi just came on...wow, I hadn't heard that in forever. I didn't miss it, either.
68. Your Musical Tastes Match: Nicole Kidman
file:///C:/DOCUME~1/Donna/LOCALS~1/Temp/Walking%20On%20the%20Moon%201.url
69. Your Hidden Talent 
You're super sensitive and easily able to understand situations. You tend to solve complex problems in a flash, without needing a lot of facts. Decision making is easy for you. You have killer intuition. The right path is always clear, and you're a bit of a visionary.
It's easy to make decisions for other people...not so much for me.
70. You Should Learn Swedish 
Fantastisk! You're laid back about learning a language - and about life in general. Peaceful, beautiful Sweden is ideal for you... And you won't even have to speak perfect Swedish to get around!
Do you SEE the pattern here?
71. Donna's Aliases
Your movie star name: Chocolate Chips Louis
Your fashion designer name is Donna Amsterdam
Your socialite name is Madonna LA
Your detective name is Lion Orrville
Your barfly name is Almonds Reisling
Your soap opera name is Michelle Paradise
Your rock star name is Butterfinger Train
Your Star Wars name is Doncha Horand
Your punk rock band name is The Thoughtful Lipstick
WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: Jean Louis
NASCAR NAME: Ira Louis George
STARWARS NAME: HORDO
DETECTIVE NAME: Blue Lion
SOAP OPERA NAME: Michelle Dearborn
SUPERHERO NAME: The Scarlet Reisling
FLY GIRL/GUY NAME: Doth
GANGSTA NAME: Mint Chocolate Chip
ROCK STAR NAME: Chandler Gateway
STRIPPER NAME: Tiffany Butterfinger
72. Your Fashion Style is Classic 
You like what's stood the test of time...Simple, well styled clothes that don't scream trendy.
You stay updated and modern, but your clothes stay in style for a while. You wouldn't be caught in animal prints, fake fur, or super bright colors.
73. Your Uncommon Name For Donna Michelle Is: Catherina Fairy Rocky
Your Uncommon Name For Donna Is: Evita Cayla Barkman
Your Uncommon Name For Michelle Is: Zenia September Rocky
74. You Are Quite Worldly.
For you, travel is how you learn about the world. And you like to learn the stuff that's not in guidebooks.
You truly have wanderlust. When you're not traveling, you're dreaming about where you'll go next.
I got stuck on Blogthings last night taking silly quizzes, and here are some of the little-known "facts" about me I found interesting:
NOTE: I've just finished this, and it is REALLY long. But interesting-complete with commentary.
1.You Should Drive a BMW
NOTE: I'm IN-where do I pick it up?
2. Your Career Type: Artistic
Actor - Art Teacher - Book Editor
Clothes Designer - Comedian - Composer
Dancer - DJ - Graphic Designer
Illustrator - Musician - Sculptor
The worst career options for your are conventional careers, like bank teller or secretary.
NOTE: Not sure about this one, but I KNOW that they are right on about the worst options...
3. You Are New York (vs LA)
NOTE: Cool, except for the competitive, driven part. Which I think puts me out the the running as a New Yorker.
4. You Should Date A Swede!
NOTE: You'll find that there is an interesting Sweden theme going on throughout this. I love Sweden-in the summer. And Swedish men can be gorgeous!
5.
| Your Preppy Name Is... |
 But most people know you as Kiki!as Kiki |
6.
I'm a purple crayon7. My date fashion style is Classy. Since I like younger guys more often, it's kind of no wonder I never have a date.
8. My dream proposal is a snowy holiday one. This is unexpected, but right on-I'd love to be proposed to in NYC at Christmastime.
9. My dream honeymoon is Europe. I like this idea. Got to find Mr. Wonderful first, though.
10. I'm a 52% Conservative Chick. This is also right on. I'm morally conservative, and socio-politically liberal. I NEVER know who to vote for. It makes me crazy.
11. I'm an Uptown Girl. (wannabe) I'm really just a country girl in the suburbs of a big city.
12. I go for brains in a guy. But I do like a guy who's in shape-or at least a little thinner than not. I don't go for the teddy bear type very often.
13. I'm an "It" girl. I have no idea what that means.
14. Your Superpower Should Be Mind Reading
Highly sensitive, you are good at putting together seemingly irrelevant details. You figure out what's going on before anyone knows that anything is going on! Why you would be a good superhero: You don't care what people think, and you'd do whatever needed to be done. Your biggest problem as a superhero: Feeling even more isolated than you do now.
Scroll to the bottom to see which superheroine this is...
15. You Are Upper Middle Class
Again, I think this is more of a wannabe. Definitely not how I truly class myself. Hmm-I need to think about that statement.
16. Your California type: You Belong in San Francisco
Not a hippie, and NOT rich. But I like San Francisco...
17. Your Modern Bombshell look is Charlize Theron
If I were only that gorgeous!
18. My dream engagement ring is a per-shaped diamond.
Actually, I prefer the idea of a vintage piece of estate jewelry or a family heirloom.
19. My inner pop princess is Jessica Simpson.
I have SERIOUS issues with this one.
20. I'm more like Jennifer than Angelina.
I didn't need someone else to tell me that one; Brad makes me sick.
21. Your Nail Polish Color is Pink 
How you're unique: You're girly without being high maintenance. Why your style rocks: You're the perfect blend of stylish, preppy, and cute. What this color says about you: "I am secure enough not to follow every trend".
I love this color.
22. You Should Be In Atomic Kitten 
Cute and stylish - you're the perfect little pop package. Oh, and you can sing a little too :-)
Who's Atomic Kitten?
23. You Should Stay in Shape With a Personal Trainer 
You definitely want a better body, but you don't know where to start. And it's all so overwhelming, you tend to lose motivation easily. A personal trainer can help you get the body you desire - even if you have a long way to go!
Where do I sign up, and who's paying?
Actually, I prefer the idea of a vintage piece of estate jewelry or a family heirloom.
19. My inner pop princess is Jessica Simpson.
I have SERIOUS issues with this one.
20. I'm more like Jennifer than Angelina.
I didn't need someone else to tell me that one; Brad makes me sick.
21. Your Nail Polish Color is Pink
I love this color.
22. You Should Be In Atomic Kitten
Who's Atomic Kitten?
23. You Should Stay in Shape With a Personal Trainer
Where do I sign up, and who's paying?
Your convictions are strong and unwavering. You think your religion is the one true way, for everyone.
Note: I'm a Christian.
25. Your Celebrity Style Twin is Gwen Stefani
Again, this is a surprise. I'm not too sure I like her style...
26. The Part of You That No One Sees
Shocker: This is very correct when I'm feeling my most egocentric. Thankfully, I've gotten a lot better about this.
27. Your Personality is Very Rare (INFP)
Note: This is totally me. mom always said I was a one of a kind!
28. Your Love Type: INTP
In love, you are honest and serious about commitment. For you, sex is something you think about and desire a lot of the time. Overall, you are pure in your affection and feelings. However, you tend to be suspicious and distrusting at times. Best matches: ENTJ and ESTJ
29. The True You
30.You Should Maybe Go to Grad School
No wonder I've been ambivalent about grad school.
31. You Belong in Paris
Where do I sign up??
32. Your Vocabulary Score: A+
Oh, brother.
33. You Are 72% Intuitive
Note: This is also right on.
34. You Are Expressionism
At times, you tend to lack perspective on your life, probably as a result of looking inward too much.
This introspection does give you a flair for the dramatic. And it's even maybe made you cultivate some artistic talents! You have a true artist's temperament... which is a blessing and a curse.
Hidden trait: It's true, I do have a bit of the dramatic in me. I try to submerse it in reason, and as a result, it only truly comes out when I'm alone or stressed.
35. You Are A Realistic Romantic
You're still taken in by love poems and sunsets. You just don't fall for every dreamy pick up line!
(NOTE: I'm listening to someone else's blog music and I just realized that I would like Fergie, if she'd JUST sing. )
36. You Belong in the UK
Curry gives me the runs.
37. Your SAT Score of 1370 Means:
You Scored Higher Than George W. Bush
You Scored Higher Than Al Gore
You Scored Lower Than David Duchovny
You Scored Lower Than Natalie Portman
You Scored Lower Than Bill Gates
Your IQ is most likely in the 130-140 range
Equivalent ACT score: 31
Schools that Fit Your SAT Score:
Brown University
Northwestern University
Carnegie Mellon University
Cornell University
Reed College
Note: I think if I could go back and do it all over again, I'd go to Northwestern.
38. What Your Handwriting Says About You
You are somewhat outgoing, but you're not a natural extrovert. You think first before you act. You tend to be independent, rational, and logical.
You are very detail oriented and meticulous. You are a careful thinker and a true intellectual.
You need a bit of space in your life, but you're not a recluse. You expect people to give you a small amount of privacy, and you respect their privacy as well.
You are somewhat traditional, but you are also open to change. You listen to your head and your heart.
You are a decent communicator. You eventually get your point across, but sometimes you leave things a bit ambiguous.
This is so true, it's almost scary. Except for the stress part. Well, I deal well with other people's stress.
39. You've Experienced 64% of Life
And unless you're already in your 40s, you're probably wise beyond your years.
How about that?
40. Your Travel Profile:
the Midwestern United States (100%).
You Are Very Well Traveled in
the Southern United States (77%).
You Are Somewhat Well Traveled in
Scandinavia (40%), the Western United States (32%), the Northeastern United States (29%), Africa (25%).
You are Mostly Untraveled in
Canada (20%) and in Western Europe (7%).
You Are Untraveled in
Asia, Australia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, Southern Europe, Middle East, United Kingdom (0%).
I need to get moving-I have lots of traveling to do.
41. Where is your Inner New Yorker? You Belong in Soho
And you indie culture of all kinds - from little boutiques to art house films.
NOTE: I guess I should visit NYC before I decide where to live. Tomorrow is the Macy's Parade-one of my dream vacations. Dorky, but fun.
42. You Are An INFJ
You live your life with integrity, originality, vision, and creativity. Independent and stubborn, you rarely stray from your vision - no matter what it is. You are an excellent listener, with almost infinite patience. You have complex, deep feelings, and you take great care to express them.
In love, you truly see relationships as an opportunity to connect and grow. You enjoy relationships as long as they are improving and changing. You can't stand stagnation.
At work, you stay motivated and happy... as long as you are working toward a dream you support.
You would make a great photographer, alternative medicine guru, or teacher.
How you see yourself: Hardworking, ethical, and helpful
When other people don't get you, they see you as: Manipulative, weak, and unstable
Yet another variation on a theme...I think my Myers-Briggs really depends on my mood.
43. What Asian Country? You Should Travel to Japan
Japanese culture is so sophisticated, but Japanese TV is entirely weird.
44. What Your Soul Really Looks Like
You are a grounded person, but you also leave room for imagination and dreams. You feet may be on the ground, but you're head is in the clouds. You see yourself with pretty objective eyes. How you view yourself is almost exactly how other people view you. Your near future is likely to be filled with great successes and accomplishments. You just need to figure out how to get there. For you, love is all about caring and comfort. You couldn't fall in love with someone you didn't trust.
Again, so right on that it is weird.
45. You Are 80% Lady
I wonder what the other 20% is?
46. What Latin Country should you visit? You Should Visit Argentina
This sounds interesting...but I've not really been drawn to Latin countries. I'm more of a Northern Europe girl, myself. Anyhow, better than Venezuela...I don't much care for big mouth dictators. I loved King Juan Carlos last week. Way to tell that loco hombre to shut up!
47. Your Inner European is Swedish!
What'd I just say about Northern Europe? I spent part of a summer during college in Sweden. I loved it.
48. You Belong in 1959.
49. American Cities That Best Fit You:
60% San Francisco
55% Los Angeles
55% New York City
55% Philadelphia
NOTE: I live outside D.C. Perhaps I should re-evaluate my desire to return to Chicago...
50. Your Linguistic Profile:
15% Upper Midwestern
10% Yankee
5% Dixie
0% Midwestern
NOTE: I grew up in Ohio.
51. You Are Definitely a Hot Chick
It's your whole five star package that attracts men -Your looks, your charm, and your ability tie a cherry with your tongue.
NOTE: Not true.
52. Your Extroversion Profile:
Sociability: High
Assertiveness: Medium
Friendliness: Low
Activity Level: Very Low
Excitement Seeking: Very Low
NOTE: I'm not sure about the low friendliness score...I'm often told I'm friendly. The rest of it is right on.
53. You Are an Excellent Cook
I'd love, LOVE to take a year at Le Cordon Bleu just for fun.
54. You Belong in London
NOTE: London is next on my visit list anyhow.
55. People Envy Your Compassion
56. You Are Scooter
In any big event or party, you're the one who keeps things going. "15 seconds to showtime!"
NOTE: This one surprised me, but I love it. He's undoubtedly my favorite Muppet, besides Kermit. He reminds me of Radar.
57. You Are 60% Independent
You've got your own cool thing going on, though you sometimes still care too much about what other's think.
NOTE: This picture scares me.
58. You Should Drive a Jaguar XK 4.2
NOTE: This one is for a 2007 car, and the BMW was for a sports car. I don't care-I'll take either one.
59. You Passed 8th Grade Science
NOTE: I majored in biology, minored in chemistry and teach 7th grade science. There'd be something seriously wrong if I didn't get a perfect score on this one.
60. You Are a Very Good Girl
I think being bad is highly overrated.
61. You Are 70% "Average American"
This one is dumb, but I like the flip-flops.
62. You Passed 8th Grade Math
NOTE: I tutored college math for 10 years, so ditto on the comment from 8th grade science.
63. Your Inner Retro Girl Is
Where do I sign up?
For you, love is never finished. If you've loved someone once, you'll always love them. You're an old fashioned romantic... even if your relationships don't end up as romantic as you'd like. Your love style: Traditional and understated. Your Hollywood Ending Will Be: Complicated and ambiguous
Thank God my life isn't a Hollywood movie.
65. What Your Sleeping Position Says
Open to the world, you are not afraid to be yourself. If you don't get enough sleep, you are: Able to cope
It's hard to sleep next to you because: You're a bed hog.
I'll bet everyone says this, but I'm NOT a bed hog. Everyone I've ever slept with (only girl cousins and sisters-nothing weird) has been a bed hog and I couldn't afford to be one.
66. How You Are In Love
You tend to get very attached when you're with someone. You want to see your love all the time. You love your partner unconditionally and don't try to make them change. You stay in love for a long time, even if you aren't loved back. When you fall, you fall hard.
This one is half and half...I'm not really possessive about seeing my true love 24/7. I also have historically given a lot more than I've taken in relationships. If anything, I need to be more willing to take.
67. Your Career Type: Investigative
Architect - Biologist - Chemist-Dentist - Electrical Technician - Mathematician-Medical Technician - Meteorologist - Pharmacist-Physician - Surveyor - Veterinarian
The worst career options for your are enterprising careers, like lawyer or real estate agent.
This is funny-I think I took the same test twice with different results...I wonder what kind of careers are out there for artistic investigative types? They're still right about worst careers...ick.
NOTE: Always by Bon Jovi just came on...wow, I hadn't heard that in forever. I didn't miss it, either.
68. Your Musical Tastes Match: Nicole Kidman
file:///C:/DOCUME~1/Donna/LOCALS~1/Temp/Walking%20On%20the%20Moon%201.url
69. Your Hidden Talent
It's easy to make decisions for other people...not so much for me.
70. You Should Learn Swedish
Do you SEE the pattern here?
71. Donna's Aliases
Your fashion designer name is Donna Amsterdam
Your socialite name is Madonna LA
Your detective name is Lion Orrville
Your barfly name is Almonds Reisling
Your soap opera name is Michelle Paradise
Your rock star name is Butterfinger Train
Your Star Wars name is Doncha Horand
Your punk rock band name is The Thoughtful Lipstick
WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: Jean Louis
NASCAR NAME: Ira Louis George
STARWARS NAME: HORDO
DETECTIVE NAME: Blue Lion
SOAP OPERA NAME: Michelle Dearborn
SUPERHERO NAME: The Scarlet Reisling
FLY GIRL/GUY NAME: Doth
GANGSTA NAME: Mint Chocolate Chip
ROCK STAR NAME: Chandler Gateway
STRIPPER NAME: Tiffany Butterfinger
72. Your Fashion Style is Classic
You stay updated and modern, but your clothes stay in style for a while. You wouldn't be caught in animal prints, fake fur, or super bright colors.
73. Your Uncommon Name For Donna Michelle Is: Catherina Fairy Rocky
Your Uncommon Name For Donna Is: Evita Cayla Barkman
Your Uncommon Name For Michelle Is: Zenia September Rocky
74. You Are Quite Worldly.
You've done a good bit of worldly exploring, and you have an international perspective. And you're definitely looking forward to your future adventures abroad. You've got the passport, the desire to travel, and maybe even the language skills. Now all you need are the means!
It's true, I've done more than Average Joe. I still have tons I want to do, though.
75. Your Travel Personality Is: The Adventurer
It's true, I've done more than Average Joe. I still have tons I want to do, though.
75. Your Travel Personality Is: The Adventurer
You truly have wanderlust. When you're not traveling, you're dreaming about where you'll go next.
And your travels are truly legendary - they leave you with stories you'll be telling for the rest of your life!
76. Your IQ Is 115 
Your Logical Intelligence is Below Average
Your Verbal Intelligence is Genius
Your Mathematical Intelligence is Exceptional
Your General Knowledge is Average
NOTE: My I.Q. is officially 152.
77. You Are a Yellow Flower 
A yellow flower tends to represent joy, friendship, and playfulness. At times, you are childlike, as a buttercup is.
And at other times, you are fickle, like a dahlia. And more than you wish, you tend to feel bittersweet, like a marigold.
78. Your Superheroine is Trinity 
"Touch me and that hand will never touch anything again."
NOTE: I have no idea who this is.
79. Your glamour icon is Brigitte Bardot 
Naurally sensual and beautiful. You're an exotic beauty who turns heads everywhere. You've got a look that's one of a kind.
Note: If only this were true...
80. What Your Latte Says About You 
You don't treat yourself very often. You find that indulging doesn't jibe with your very disciplined life.
You can be quite silly at times, but you know when to buckle down and be serious.
You have a good deal of energy, but you pace yourself. You never burn out too fast.
You're addicted to caffeine. There's no denying it.
You are responsible, mature, and truly an adult. You're occasionally playful, but you find it hard to be carefree.
You are dramatic and intense, but you are never moody.
76. Your IQ Is 115
Your Verbal Intelligence is Genius
Your Mathematical Intelligence is Exceptional
Your General Knowledge is Average
NOTE: My I.Q. is officially 152.
77. You Are a Yellow Flower
And at other times, you are fickle, like a dahlia. And more than you wish, you tend to feel bittersweet, like a marigold.
78. Your Superheroine is Trinity
NOTE: I have no idea who this is.
79. Your glamour icon is Brigitte Bardot
Note: If only this were true...
80. What Your Latte Says About You
You can be quite silly at times, but you know when to buckle down and be serious.
You have a good deal of energy, but you pace yourself. You never burn out too fast.
You're addicted to caffeine. There's no denying it.
You are responsible, mature, and truly an adult. You're occasionally playful, but you find it hard to be carefree.
You are dramatic and intense, but you are never moody.
Note: This is oddly true, except for the first line.
81. The Keys to Your Heart
This is also very true...and saved to the end for the not-so-fainthearted. Way to make it the whole way through! I had wanted to do a 100 things about me list, but this almost makes it there. I'll have to finish the list with more original things tomorrow...
This is also very true...and saved to the end for the not-so-fainthearted. Way to make it the whole way through! I had wanted to do a 100 things about me list, but this almost makes it there. I'll have to finish the list with more original things tomorrow...
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