You Is Important

Sunday night I stayed up until 2:00 A.M. finishing the book through tears.  Tonight I just came back from the movie and am still clearing up my mascara stains.  While there are some differences (is a movie ever really like the book?), both are well worth the time. 

P.S. Did you know Nate Berkus was an executive producer on the film?  

Baby You Can Drive My Car

Few things really ruffle my feathers in this world. Ribbed sweater vests are one of them. A few more less obvious items linger on the list. Yet the DMV and Street Department take the cake.  They are organizations setup by the government to corner otherwise upstanding citizens, such as myself, and attempt to turn them into non-violent felons.  It wasn't enough that they forced me to retake my driver's test all because of a failed parallel parking attempt.  Nor were they satisfied with my my three speeding tickets, two car accidents, and a half dozen fender benders.  All of which were the result of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.  It's never been enough for the state of Missouri (Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, and Illinois).   They had to try and corner me even when my little blue Lancer was not in my possession.  


Last weekend, as a favor to my dear friend Emilie, I lent my car so she could drive to the 'burbs of Chicago.  The car was dropped off on Saturday evening.  By Sunday morning, at approximately 9:03 A.M. the car had been reported missing to me, though stated as found and impounded by the City of Chicago.  What are you going to do in a city that segments off tow zones, permit parking, meters, and open public parking by the square footage?  It happens.  So that evening we found ourselves two underpasses below the Riverwalk at the Lower Wacker impound lot.  We should have known we were in for a round of engaging conversationalists after Emilie's original call to the Department of Streets and Sanitation in the morning went as follows:

Emilie:  I'm looking for a car that would have been towed at LaSalle and Oak
Street Dept. Lady:  Make and model?
E: Blue Mitsubishi Lance
SDL:  And are you the owner?
E:  No, it's my friend's car.  I borrowed it and-
SDL:  Whoa, whoa, whoa?  This isn't your car?  I shouldn't even be talking to you right now!
E:  No, it's my friend's car and I need to find it.  I have the keys.  She let me borrow it.  I-
SDL:  For all you know your friend stole this car.  For all I know, you stole this car.  For all we know, this car is stolen.  Click.

Low and behold, the two on shift at the understated faux wood wall Lower Wacker office had the same shining personalities as their customer service counterpart.  They were happy to report they had the car, and even more eager to let us know that they could not relinquish it.  Not until they saw proof in the form of the vehicle registration papers and a notarized letter from the owner.  Or in other words, my Father.  As you may have guessed, the sympathy just came pouring out of them once that fact was given.  As luck would have it, the owner, Dad, was out of town.  Not around the registration papers, and certainly not in front of a fax machine.  Of course I then went into a very lady-like soliloquy about how "ridiculous" it was to not accept my other forms of documentation as proof, and how their "processes were archaic," and I would not leave until they knew just how "absolutely rude" they were and that the whole thing was "bulls***."  And we stormed out those doors.  Of course we had to walk back in because we went out the wrong one.  But we then stormed out again and even slammed the door behind us.


Once my Dad was reached and made it back to St. Louis the documents were faxed.  The car was able to be picked up and I was ready to put the whole situation and Street Department behind me.  Well it would have been nice to had I remembered that I had the keys now and not Emilie.  So Thursday morning I was ready to just be done with it all.  We had the cash money, we had the documents, we had our final words.   Fortunately a nice temp named Vic took care of us so we were out the door in standard DMV time (37 minutes without anyone else in front of us).  But no hassle was given as he was not as read up in policy and procedure as his fellow full time colleagues.  The Lancer was finally back in my possession, and being that my building was just above the lot I was able to just turn a corner and legally park it in the garage.  But someone from the week's past events had it in good with the Man Upstairs and his friend, Karma, because just as I was about to park the ol' gal in the triple parked garage the battery light started flashing and the wheel was jolting.  I saw their point and as an absolution prayed approximately 23 Hail Mary's between my office and apartment.  The car is now on sick leave in its designated spot out back.  It may come into remission when the garage door opener is finally retrieved from, who else?  My dear friend, Emilie.

Vacation Holiday

Last week I was able to get away and spend five days at my most favorite place in the world:  Madden's Lodge.  It's funny going to a familiar place year after year.  You're able to see how things have changed for you.  At age 24 I was reminded of a moment when my Dad was not much older than I am now, and I was just about five or six.  We were up at Maddens and the most amazing thing ever came to the lodge: water balloon fighting.  Not the fill your own and throw them at the pesky four year-olds kind of water balloon fighting.  Legitimate professional water balloon fighting.  To say this was the highlight of my short-term memory years would be an understatement.  My Dad promised me we would sling those balloons.  Just as soon as he called work.  So I waited and waited and watched that phone call go on and on in our cabin's sitting area.  Until finally I could no longer wait and watch any longer.  I walked up to the spin-around curly cord phone and just hung it up for him.  Well, that really did get me out there any sooner.  Nor did it make my dinner that evening any more pleasant.  But really, why was he tending to work when were at MADDENS?

I've thought back on that moment often-mostly when trying to retrace when I first discovered my powers of conniver and assertion.  This year though, when holed up in my pine walled room on my computer, the moment replayed more vividly because I was the one that a sassy five year old to hang it up on me.  My vacation, while gorgeous and enjoyable as always, did not have everything else in my life vacated.  It's a sure sign of getting older, yes.  But not one my five year-old self ever saw coming.

Keeping the Doctor Away

Not sure about anyone else, but I'm finding less and less time in my days.  This means, among other things, I can't afford to get sick or, quite unfortunately, going to the spa a weekly facial.  So I rely on a little help from my friends-vitamins!  Say what you want, but I promise you after a week of daily dose you'll be sure to notice a huge difference in your energy and overall health!

{Image via Pinterest}

What Spring Sprung

Not sure if it was just hiding throughout the rest of the country, but spring was a very elusive guest to Chicago this year.  While the rain came down, and the warm temperatures remained dormant, I kept busy with some good books, movies, and blasting tunes while spring cleaning.  If I had to choose, my favorites from the past three months were:

• Gimme Some-Peter Bjorn and John:  Still funky and fresh, this album started all the right ways with Tomorrow Has to Wait
• How Starbucks Saved My Life by Michael Gates Gill:  In a word, inspiring.  You want to make sure and pay attention to every word Gill has to say from his career highs to his careers bests; his mistakes as well as his timeless memories.
• The Graduate:  They call them classics for a reason.  Clearly a racy coming-of-age story, this film was also touching and had a very dashing Dustin Hoffman, both of which came as somewhat unexpected.

Now onto the remainder of my summer months.  They happen to contain a hefty amount of travel time, which bodes well for my favorite hobbies.

Dine, Chicago, Dine

Last week yielded that realization of finally making it.  A bona fide Chicago resident.  That moment comes along when you not only dine at three local establishments, but enjoy them all, in just a week's time.  It was truly a great week.  Let me introduce you to those eats that helped me get to this point:

• Monday Night-Dukes:  It may lure you in from its cozy modern cedar lodge atmosphere, but it's the burgers that will get you to stay.  Mostly because you may literally have to roll yourself out of there otherwise.  Per a recommendation I went with the lightly topped California burger.  One day though, mark my words, I'll be ordering that breakfast burger you see above.
• Thursday Night-Chens:  It's nearly impossible to find any ambiance in Wrigleyville.  The Cubs do lose there after all.  Right in the midst of the sobbing jersey chasers and  cousins of the fine gentleman who brought us Icing, you can find a classy spot called Chens.  Those who truly enjoy Asian cuisine cannot help but love this place as it's a one-stop shop: sushi, pad-Thai, and Chinese favorites.
• Saturday Morning-Brunch at Fireside '86:  Unfortunately you cannot stop in here, as Fireside '86 is more commonly known as my friend Peter's residential apartment in Andersonville.  You haven't had a brunch though until you've had a gourmet made-from-scratch spread with some boys celebrating Pridefest.
• Saturday Night-Taco Joint:  It must be said that thus far the Mexican restaurants in this city have been lackluster.  While this was still no El Rancho, Taco Joint, which recently opened in Lincoln Park, exceeded its gimmicky name by a longshot.  It's biggest perk is it's thrifty four course meal:  Margarita, two tacos, guacamole, and a third taco.  

How to Save Your Wallet's Life

A few tips from a semi-pro:

1.  Pick a day to go to the grocery store.  Then go on that day every other week with a list of items needed.  Stick to the list.

2.  Decide on two items that are on the borderline of necessities and wants (i.e. I really want to replace my has-been worn-in black pumps).  Buy those items per paycheck of the month. 

3.  One out to lunch per week barring any special occasions.

4.  Free museum days in your city.

5.  Parks.

6.  Amazon used books and movies.

7.  Netflix Instant.

8.  Subscribe to all your favorite retailers email lists.  Yes, it will be painful at first.  But then that glorious day will come when you know about the SALE.

9.  Recyclable friendly products: water bottles, coffee mugs, cloth grocery bags.

10.  Punctuality.  It saves cab fares.

**These are just lovely guidelines to save room for the luxuries you want to keep in your life.  Remember, you are only young once.**

{Image Credit: via I Need Bigger Closet}

Easy Peasy Meals: Sausage Casserole

I've got the secret to making you the most popular guy or gal in your office.  And all you'll need are three simple ingredients with almost just as many steps.  So whip out your pen and paper:

Ingredients needed:

• Sausage
• Cream Cheese
• Pillsbury Crescent Rolls

Steps:

1. Brown the sausage
2. Mix in the cream cheese and blend together
3. Pour mix into pan and top with crescent rolls
4. Bake at 375-degrees until golden

See?  Easy peasy!  And an absolutely delicious dish to share with co-workers!

Worth the Wait

When should one follow the hype?  In sports, when an athlete has two solid seasons that include trips to the playoffs and then decides to stay with his former bottom-of-the-barrel team (I'm talking to you, Lebron), then you can hop on the bandwagon.  When it comes to the latest fashion trend, check back in a month at your nearest H&M to ensure it hasn't made it to the clearance rack.  As far as good food is concerned, if it takes you over a month (say, two) to get a reservation, then you can be very sure it's worth the wait.  

Last week I finally get to have a taste of what Girl and the Goat was all about.  From the comforts (the chickpeas fritters are a must) to the intriguing (do try the braised beef tongue), the menu is a true experience for your palate.  Not to mention it boasts a friendly and very knowledgable staff housed in a laid back eclectic atmosphere-something you can't always find when dining fine.  

To conclude, the next time you hear about a great new restaurant in town, listen up.  Then call and put your name in.  When it comes to good food you don't want to be picking up the scraps.

If You Can't Take the Heat

Well I finally figured out how to bring the heat to Chicago.  This  past weekend I went down to the upper 90-degrees of Dallas for a family wedding.  Scorching as it may have been, it beat the the chills of the Windy City and it seemed to have like me enough to travel back here.  The climate was just one of the things I learned to love in this great state.  Here are a few more:

• Take pictures.  As seen from above, I have none to show from the weekend. 
• Everything really is bigger in Texas.  Hair, stadiums, belt buckles.  Everything.
• Too much wine can make for a long night.
• The JFK Conspiracy Theory is pretty darn legit. 
• No way in heck could I ever live in a 90-degree climate year round.  

{Image via Pinterest}

Help Joplin

As almost anyone knows by now, late Sunday afternoon a devastating tornado blew through Joplin, MO.  In its wake over 100 residents became fatal victims and over a third of the city destroyed.  When you're able to count past one for your blessings, there are left few reasons why not to help someone else do the same.  

If you're able, donate blood to the Red Cross.

Donate a few dollars to the Heart of Missouri United Way.

Make a Care Kit for Heart to Heart International.

Most importantly, no matter your faith or belief, keep this community in your heart.

Be well.

{Image Credit: New York Times}

For All It's Worth

It's like that relative that just keeps lingering around the party.  Winter.  It has most assuredly overstayed its welcome.  Which is why every time between now and the time its next invitation is issued (check the mail around Thanksgiving), so long as the sun is shining and the ground dry, there will be just one place you can find me.  The patio.  Here's to not taking one degree for granted!

{Image: The Motel Bar}

KarenonDeck.com

This past weekend I went to a great event.  It was the finale to a year long projected, otherwise known as KarenonDeck.com.  For the past 52 weeks Karen has attempted and successfully completed 52 challenges that were all mailed into her on playing cards by 52 of her friends and family.  The finale party helped to benefit some great causes and asked a challenge of each guest.  Mine was to email 10 friends about the site.  I know that I have at least that many-and hopefully some more-that read my little blog.  So I'm asking each of you to take the easy step of visiting the site and come up with some great challenges of your own!

{Image Credit:  PaperSeeker}

Ole!

When it comes to Mexican fare, I'm pretty low maintenance.  Standard grub of queso, guacamole, and cheese quesadillas suit me just fine.  Sometimes you need to add some class to your plate though.  Serving up high rollin' enchiladas and tacos, De Cero is the first Mexican restaurant that hasn't disappointed. Oh and don't forget to order yourself a red sangria too!

A Lesson in Word Problems

Sun + Temperatures > 63 degrees = Patio weather

Patio weather - stocked fridge = Local pub with grub

Local pub with grub + full day at work = Happy hour

Happy hour + live music = Bonus!

{Image Credit:  Cuppa Photography via Style Me Pretty}

Runner in the Making

Slowly but surely I'm finding that I can do most anything.  So long as I actually want to do it.  It's taken many years, but it seems running has finally sparked an interest within.  How much of one is hard to say.  However, I've already invested $2.99 into the app Couch to 5K, which is a whole $1 more paid to any other app on my phone.  The app is a nine week program for the non-runner that will alert you when to alternate between jogging and walking, and syncs to your music.  It has a timer, a pause/resume button, stretches, and warm up/cool down are incorporated into each workout.  In other words, if this can't do it then I'm just not destined to be a jogger.  Worse things could happen.  But then again, as previously stated, as long as I want to do it then the chances of completion are good.

The Best of Q1

Moving to a big city and taking on a new job have come with lots of perks.  Not the least of which are enjoying more of what I've always loved: music, books, and movies.  Commuting by transit has afforded me more time to dedicate to reading, attention to detail at work virtually insists on headphones in, and a combination of more structured weekends as well as a failure to memorize television channels has made Netflix the default.  Since being able to relish in much more of each (and I rarely find anything of the three I dislike) I thought it more effective to share my top nods from Q1.  That's biz world talk for "first quarter" or "January, February, and March" for my liberal arts friends.

1)  In music...topping a beat-tastic freshman album is tough to do.  Unless you're Adele and bust out anything from soothing jazz to soulful pop.

2)  When reading...I rarely, if ever, cry from a book.  The I met Em and Dex and can never look at...well read One Day for yourself to find out.

3)  Have you seen...what was just posted on Facebook?  Sure you have.  Don't lie, you stalk just as much as the next person.  But could a movie about such a modern craze really be that good?  I didn't think so, until I succumbed to the Awards hype (they always do it) and popped in The Social Network.  Surprised, awed, and loved.  Coulda and shoulda won.  I heart you Jesse Eisenberg & Andrew Garfield.

Tough cookies to beat.  As it always goes, the goals are more lofty in Q2, so let's go out and get 'em.

Fishy Fryyyyy

Fish fry season is in full swing!  For those not familiar a fish fry is a Lenten tradition where you a get a plate chalk full of the best fried fish, fried potatoes, fried macaroni, and potentially fried cole slaw.  Better yet you can usually get a couple cold ones.  While the best are held in church basements, Chicago seems a little too sophisticated for such a setting.  Doesn't mean they don't fry a good cod though.  Here are some of the best found fishy platters in the Windy City (I can personally to English Pub for their fare and spirits).  If you find yourself looking for the best in the midwest though, here's what St. Louis offers.

Happy Catching!

Taxi, Taxi!

Living in the city a girl has to catch a cab to get to the places she needs to go.  Usually those places cost some buckaroos though.  So when it comes time to pay the fare more often than not you're only left with a card.  And after having a ball at the bar or lifting your spirits at the stores, the last thing you want to hear is "can't take cards."  It's a lie, and I stopped accepting it long ago.  The trick of it friends is the second you open that back door, peer in, give a smile, and ask "do you accept credit cards?"  No cabbie is going to turn down a customer.  They'll take you.  And when they find your doorstep they have no fight to pick.  Save an argument and some frisky words.  All go home happily ever.

{Image Credit:  A Boy Can Dream}

The Sights of Utah

This past weekend I paid a visit to the glorious state of Utah.  While staying in Salt Lake City, the days were spent in Park City at The Canyons Resort and Deer Valley, as well as at Solitude.  It's true that I'm not the most highly skilled skier, as I have the bruises to show for it.  You don't have to be to enjoy it though.  Once you make it up from your first fall and you find yourself at the bottom of the hill you realize how satisfying a sport it is.  Moreover, it's the only way to truly appreciate the scenery and all the mountains have to offer.  So I am quite okay with being a mediocre skier.  Especially when there's carmelized Belgian waffles to be had.