That what it feels like I'm doing after all this gross warm humid weather lately. We had such a brief, shining week of Fall, and now it's hot and uncomfortable again. Though this weekend should be cooler, and I can bring out the hoodies again, thank goodness.
What a week! As I've now become quite comfortable spending most of my weeknights at home, I really pushed the envelope with Harpie dinner on Monday night in Brooklyn (theme: Johnny Appleseed) and then a concert last night with Schmeather. We saw The Head and the Heart at The Bowery Ballroom, and they were excellent, but they didn't go on until about 11:15, after two opening bands, and so I got home at about 1:15 am. The opening bands were kind of boring -- actually we only went up to the main room for the second one -- so as much as I love seeing fantastic live music, I think I may have to not go on weeknights anymore. Or now that I'm typing this out, maybe I'll just be really picky about it, since today isn't as hard to survive as I thought it would be.
ANYWAY, I am very much looking forward to a night at home tonight. I have to pick up the veggies after work, and then Hike will be coming over at some point, but before then I can probably get in some couch and DVR time... and it'll be nice to go to sleep before midnight (I hope, at least.)
I need to start re-incorporating the gym or some sort of activity into my life, since after a month of letting myself go/eat whatever, I am feeling the results. My clothes are all tight (which could partially be due to high heat drying, but who knows), my tummy is big (I swear I'm pregnant while having my period, because it feels so firm. Is that possible?), and I am feeling decidedly dumpy and unsexy. (Well, except that Hike and I are sexting right now, so I'm still looking forward to it -- just with the lights out.) Um I guess I also have my extremely light period right now, which could be contributing. Now, is it light because I'm pregnant or because I'm now taking more hormones (a light dose) for my acne? Probably the latter. Oh, and I've also decided that I need to start dressing more like a grown-up, so I've spent a lot of money online shopping recently. I know I won't keep it all, but I can at least perk up my wardrobe a bit. And it doesn't help that I'm totally sick of all my summer clothing options.
There's not much news. The weekends have been full of homework (him); puttering around the house baking, cooking, cleaning, reading (me); visiting the family on Sunday and doing our laundry (me) while he studies more (him); and my weeks have been made up of things like book club, walking home from work (last week, when we had some gloriously cooler days), and catching up on all the new fall television. Last weekend I had time on Saturday to borrow his car and visit Schmillie in Brooklyn for the afternoon, then head to Trader Joe's in Rego Park to stock up on pantry items. I'm cooking more dinners, but I enjoy it. I feel like I'm contributing what I can do to his overwhelming school schedule now. I also have started making homemade granola bars for him to throw in his bag to eat during class, since he gets so hungry and wasn't bringing anything, plus he likes natural, healthy stuff. It feels good to support him in that way, and I'm lucky that he appreciates it. It's how I'm showing love. (Barf, amiright?)
We've had some serious talks about the future recently, so I'm very happy with where we are and what's to come. And we've gotten much better at arguing. The fights do still happen, but usually we can head them off at the pass -- and we're learning how to balance his schoolwork with time together, plus I'm nagging him less to be more organized as he's making a good system for himself. I'm feeling optimistic about this thing. And the one-year anniversary of our first date is coming up on October 13, so it feels like a big milestone. I'm excited!
And that's the story, morning glories. I feel like I'm getting so repetitive, but hey, consistency is the salt of life.
Showing posts with label cooking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cooking. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Lady's Night
I actually have NO PLANS tonight, and while I tried (and failed) to connect with some grrlfriends that I haven't seen recently, I'm sort of happy it worked out this way. It's been way too long since I've had a weekend-night-date with myself. Hike has a boys' steakhouse dinner at Peter Luger's to (again) celebrate his brother's birthday with a different group of friends, so I'm planning on heading home, hitting the gym again (I went last night!) and then running some small errands on my block before showering and climbing into bed to watch True Blood Season 3 on my laptop. Could there be a better home-alone plan? I think not. OH and I will make TJ's Butternut Squash Triangoli for dinner with a squash/herb sauce that I'll invent (and walnuts.) PERFECT.
And then, if all goes according to plan, my prodigal boyfriend will return to me so that I don't have to sleep alone, since I think he might be a spider repellent. (That or I'm getting bitten at his house...tbd.)
I'm very excited. I've also been a bit neurotic with him lately, admittedly, so I probably could use some me time.
Right, and on the gym topic, I am really sick of feeling so heavy and guilty for gaining weight again, so mama needs to get back on some serious track with my exercise and diet. It's going to be hard to eat out and make wise decisions, but I'm trying (and eating lots of fish. That is not a euphemism.) But I have been off the smokes for a couple of weeks now again, and it's not so bad as long as I remember my lozenges. And my broken-out chin is clearing up again. I went back on the Proactiv out of desperation, and I'm using up what I have until it's gone, and then I'll use this Dermologica MediBac stuff that my last facialist recommended. She also gave me samples, and it seemed to help right away, so I feel good about the switch. Hopefully I will no longer need a product that is endorsed on MTV every morning for preteens.
So that is the status, folks. Happy weekends!
And then, if all goes according to plan, my prodigal boyfriend will return to me so that I don't have to sleep alone, since I think he might be a spider repellent. (That or I'm getting bitten at his house...tbd.)
I'm very excited. I've also been a bit neurotic with him lately, admittedly, so I probably could use some me time.
Right, and on the gym topic, I am really sick of feeling so heavy and guilty for gaining weight again, so mama needs to get back on some serious track with my exercise and diet. It's going to be hard to eat out and make wise decisions, but I'm trying (and eating lots of fish. That is not a euphemism.) But I have been off the smokes for a couple of weeks now again, and it's not so bad as long as I remember my lozenges. And my broken-out chin is clearing up again. I went back on the Proactiv out of desperation, and I'm using up what I have until it's gone, and then I'll use this Dermologica MediBac stuff that my last facialist recommended. She also gave me samples, and it seemed to help right away, so I feel good about the switch. Hopefully I will no longer need a product that is endorsed on MTV every morning for preteens.
So that is the status, folks. Happy weekends!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Weekend in Review
Hello, my law-abiding interfriends. How were our unseasonably cold weekends? It's just so frustrating to have been teased with a few warm days and now we're back to actually painful (ungloved) hands on my walk to the train this morning. COME ON.
So the weekend was great but they are going so quickly now that I spend less time laying in bed eating tacos. (That is not a euphemism.) Friday night I took Hike out to Club A Steakhouse to celebrate his promotion at work, which we knew about awhile ago but it took a long time for HR to get him transitioned. Today is when he starts the new position in the afternoons, and then next week he'll be fully moved to the new department. I had bought a Living Social discount for the full prix fixe meal for two plus a bottle of wine for $80, which was a decent deal. Our reservation was for 6 pm so we could just go from work, and we had appetizers (he had steak tartare, I had a ceasar salad), we both ordered a filet mignon and shared two sides (whipped yukon potatoes and creamed spinach) and then shared two desserts (carrot cake and tiramisu) and a bottle of wine. It was a relatively fancy place, as they decanted the wine at our table AND did the crumb wiping, and the food was good, with the steaks being the highlight. It was a really lovely date, and we had a lot of fun with each other and acted mushy and enjoyed ourselves very much for over two hours of lingering at the table. Oh, and we had some serious Future Talk. I love Future Talk. Then we cabbed home to relax and watch Fraggles.
Saturday I headed over to Schmillie's for Henna Party: Afternoon Delight Edition, and she put out a very nice spread of cheese and shrimp dip and homemade olive tapenade, and we gorged. We also had two bloody marys and then two bottles of wine, so you know, it was fun. Oh, and she gave me homemade apple pie to go, later, since we were still SO FULL. We played with the pets (she is in the process of moving in with her adorable boyfriend, so we were at his Red Hook loft and he has a dog and a hairless cat, which is mesmerizing), and at one point took our wine downstairs for a smoke and managed to not notice the cop car parked down the block. Long story short, they wanted to fill a quota and we looked like two middle class white girls, so we got ticketed for open containers in public! Luckily the fine is only $25 or I would be much more upset. It's rather ridiculous but we did break the law and now we are officially rebels. I haven't felt this conflicted since that shoplifting bust when I was 15.
So I cabbed back to Astoria and Hike picked me up to go to dinner (we tried this new place Dekko, which was not very impressive. It's just fine.) and then it was 10 pm so we just went back home for more relaxing. Sunday morning I battled a bit of a headache, but I wasn't too hungover, and then around noon we drove to see his grandma in the Bayside (Queens) area and visited with his mom and her boyfriend, who were also over visiting. We had macaronis and gravy and meatballs and sausage, then the three ladies went grocery shopping for Grandma (and I picked up a few things), and actually Grandma insisted on paying for my grapefruit, apples, spinach and turkey sausage, and brown rice for Hike. Oh Franny! I wouldn't have put anything in the cart if I knew she wanted to buy it, but it was really sweet of her. The men stayed back to watch some NCAA, then we all relaxed and had tea and cookies before Hike and I headed back to Astoria and for some more Fraggling and a late supper at my house. Then bedtime!
I dreamt that I was in college and I had a girlfriend who then dumped me, and I felt so embarrassed that she was dumping me to go back to her ex-boyfriend. It was very strange, but I think it reflects some recent (and slight) changes in the dynamics of my lady friendships. Today is good -- I'm groggy, as is the usual on a Monday, but I didn't take any sleeping pills so it's not too bad. Has anyone tried Melatonin for help sleeping? Hike is very into natural stuff and while I am not drinking all of that Kool-aid, it's influencing me a little. But hey, I gave up Splenda for Stevia before he and I were serious, so it's not all him. Anyway, I sometimes need some help calming down on Sunday nights, so if Melatonin works, I'd be interested.
Speaking of healthy changes in my life, I'm still weaning off of the Proactiv. I use it about once every four days now, and in the beginning, I definitely was breaking out on my chin area, especially, but I think I was also feeling more stress. I'm pretty calm lately (famous last words) and my skin is also improving. I have been using this all-natural face care line about every other day, which I bought at the spa when I had my facial this winter, and I love it. It just smells so great and makes me feel pampered and it's nice on my skin. I use the cleanser, toner (aka lotion) and cream for combination skin, and I just ordered full-sized bottles of each, plus a bottle of facial oil to work into the routine. I'm looking forward to using adult products and feeling pretty when I wash...so let's hope the breakouts continue to lessen.
And I am still smoking when I drink, which is occasionally, and this past weekend was the first time I'd bought a pack (to bring with me to Henna Afternoon.) It proved again that I can't own them, since I smoked two yesterday. It's like DESSERT, I have very little willpower, and I just think "I'll smoke them now so they'll be gone and then I won't have any." I only have a few left at home, and I'm fine not smoking during the day or anything so I don't think this is a total fail, but it's a dangerous flirtation and I need to behave again after these are gone. (Yes, I know, but I won't behave until they're gone, so shut up.) I don't want to be a smoker, but at this time in my life (when I'm not a mother, when I live in the city and have social drinking functions and am youngish) I will have one every once in awhile, and that's going to be OK. I just don't want to smoke a lot or be controlled by them.
Any other news? Not really. Today I'm cooking a half chicken from our CSA in the crockpot, so tonight I'll shred it and I think make soup...I was going to add BBQ sauce, but I have some lovely soup ingredients at home and it'll be a good WW-appropriate lunch. (Well, either would, but this might be better.) I also plan on going to the gym after work, since I went last Thursday (while my clothes were in the dryer at the laundromat!) and it's easier to go again once I break that hurdle. Plus I've stopped GAINING weight but I'm not losing any yet, either, so we need to kickstart that process. Especially since I ordered my bridesmaid gown for Britch's wedding on Friday and am SO NERVOUS about the fit. Too big, too small, all of it.
P.S. I ordered these shoes from Piperlime and they arrived last week. They are HOTT, right? I'm in a shoe phase, what can I say?
So the weekend was great but they are going so quickly now that I spend less time laying in bed eating tacos. (That is not a euphemism.) Friday night I took Hike out to Club A Steakhouse to celebrate his promotion at work, which we knew about awhile ago but it took a long time for HR to get him transitioned. Today is when he starts the new position in the afternoons, and then next week he'll be fully moved to the new department. I had bought a Living Social discount for the full prix fixe meal for two plus a bottle of wine for $80, which was a decent deal. Our reservation was for 6 pm so we could just go from work, and we had appetizers (he had steak tartare, I had a ceasar salad), we both ordered a filet mignon and shared two sides (whipped yukon potatoes and creamed spinach) and then shared two desserts (carrot cake and tiramisu) and a bottle of wine. It was a relatively fancy place, as they decanted the wine at our table AND did the crumb wiping, and the food was good, with the steaks being the highlight. It was a really lovely date, and we had a lot of fun with each other and acted mushy and enjoyed ourselves very much for over two hours of lingering at the table. Oh, and we had some serious Future Talk. I love Future Talk. Then we cabbed home to relax and watch Fraggles.
Saturday I headed over to Schmillie's for Henna Party: Afternoon Delight Edition, and she put out a very nice spread of cheese and shrimp dip and homemade olive tapenade, and we gorged. We also had two bloody marys and then two bottles of wine, so you know, it was fun. Oh, and she gave me homemade apple pie to go, later, since we were still SO FULL. We played with the pets (she is in the process of moving in with her adorable boyfriend, so we were at his Red Hook loft and he has a dog and a hairless cat, which is mesmerizing), and at one point took our wine downstairs for a smoke and managed to not notice the cop car parked down the block. Long story short, they wanted to fill a quota and we looked like two middle class white girls, so we got ticketed for open containers in public! Luckily the fine is only $25 or I would be much more upset. It's rather ridiculous but we did break the law and now we are officially rebels. I haven't felt this conflicted since that shoplifting bust when I was 15.
So I cabbed back to Astoria and Hike picked me up to go to dinner (we tried this new place Dekko, which was not very impressive. It's just fine.) and then it was 10 pm so we just went back home for more relaxing. Sunday morning I battled a bit of a headache, but I wasn't too hungover, and then around noon we drove to see his grandma in the Bayside (Queens) area and visited with his mom and her boyfriend, who were also over visiting. We had macaronis and gravy and meatballs and sausage, then the three ladies went grocery shopping for Grandma (and I picked up a few things), and actually Grandma insisted on paying for my grapefruit, apples, spinach and turkey sausage, and brown rice for Hike. Oh Franny! I wouldn't have put anything in the cart if I knew she wanted to buy it, but it was really sweet of her. The men stayed back to watch some NCAA, then we all relaxed and had tea and cookies before Hike and I headed back to Astoria and for some more Fraggling and a late supper at my house. Then bedtime!
I dreamt that I was in college and I had a girlfriend who then dumped me, and I felt so embarrassed that she was dumping me to go back to her ex-boyfriend. It was very strange, but I think it reflects some recent (and slight) changes in the dynamics of my lady friendships. Today is good -- I'm groggy, as is the usual on a Monday, but I didn't take any sleeping pills so it's not too bad. Has anyone tried Melatonin for help sleeping? Hike is very into natural stuff and while I am not drinking all of that Kool-aid, it's influencing me a little. But hey, I gave up Splenda for Stevia before he and I were serious, so it's not all him. Anyway, I sometimes need some help calming down on Sunday nights, so if Melatonin works, I'd be interested.
Speaking of healthy changes in my life, I'm still weaning off of the Proactiv. I use it about once every four days now, and in the beginning, I definitely was breaking out on my chin area, especially, but I think I was also feeling more stress. I'm pretty calm lately (famous last words) and my skin is also improving. I have been using this all-natural face care line about every other day, which I bought at the spa when I had my facial this winter, and I love it. It just smells so great and makes me feel pampered and it's nice on my skin. I use the cleanser, toner (aka lotion) and cream for combination skin, and I just ordered full-sized bottles of each, plus a bottle of facial oil to work into the routine. I'm looking forward to using adult products and feeling pretty when I wash...so let's hope the breakouts continue to lessen.
And I am still smoking when I drink, which is occasionally, and this past weekend was the first time I'd bought a pack (to bring with me to Henna Afternoon.) It proved again that I can't own them, since I smoked two yesterday. It's like DESSERT, I have very little willpower, and I just think "I'll smoke them now so they'll be gone and then I won't have any." I only have a few left at home, and I'm fine not smoking during the day or anything so I don't think this is a total fail, but it's a dangerous flirtation and I need to behave again after these are gone. (Yes, I know, but I won't behave until they're gone, so shut up.) I don't want to be a smoker, but at this time in my life (when I'm not a mother, when I live in the city and have social drinking functions and am youngish) I will have one every once in awhile, and that's going to be OK. I just don't want to smoke a lot or be controlled by them.
Any other news? Not really. Today I'm cooking a half chicken from our CSA in the crockpot, so tonight I'll shred it and I think make soup...I was going to add BBQ sauce, but I have some lovely soup ingredients at home and it'll be a good WW-appropriate lunch. (Well, either would, but this might be better.) I also plan on going to the gym after work, since I went last Thursday (while my clothes were in the dryer at the laundromat!) and it's easier to go again once I break that hurdle. Plus I've stopped GAINING weight but I'm not losing any yet, either, so we need to kickstart that process. Especially since I ordered my bridesmaid gown for Britch's wedding on Friday and am SO NERVOUS about the fit. Too big, too small, all of it.
P.S. I ordered these shoes from Piperlime and they arrived last week. They are HOTT, right? I'm in a shoe phase, what can I say?
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
I'm Taken with the Notion
Hello interlovers. How are we? I'm doing well today after a miserable Monday yesterday.
The weekend was lots of fun. Friday night Hike joined Schmate and Schmillie and AWR (Shmate's mate) for a wine & cheese spread at Schmate's in Murray Hill as our lovely Schmauren was driving down from Boston. As luck would have it, she arrived just in time for the tail end of the spread. Then the merry sixsome headed to the new Murray Hill location of Bareburger, my Astoria favorite, for a variety of meats and milkshakes. It was great to catch up with Schmauren, and then she drove we two Astorians back home for our slumber party at my place.
Saturday Hike and I slept in a bit while Schmauren headed out to meet her old roomie and cutest person ever for brunch...without the food. When I finally roused myself to her phone call, we planned for me to meet them shortly and then we'd all eat together. (I thought she was in my living room this whole time, but I think my creepy roommate scared her off with my spare keys.) It was a lovely brunch and I had a delicious roasted mushroom, scrambled egg, and Parmesan panini with fig spread (that I ordered on the side) to sweeten things up. Then Schmauren and I went for a mani/pedi session, then home to relax (I napped) before heading into the city to meet Schmillie for more wine before dinner. We then walked to explore Eataly and as we didn't want to wait an hour to be seated, we each grabbed a slice of foccaccia pizza to go. So good! We munched and walked down to Flannery's on 7th and 14th for some good drinks, music, and convo. We even scored a table, so it was the perfect destination. We called it a night around 1 am, and I cabbed back to Hike's.
In the morning he had to run off to LI for his fantasy baseball draft, so I walked home, stopping for some groceries along the way, then cleaned and organized in my room and marinated some chicken. Then Schmauren picked me up to meet Schmannon and Schmeather for brunch at MexiQ. It was amazing, though the service and wait time for food was a little slow. But we had lots of time to chat, and we (except Schmauren, who was driving home afterwards) enjoyed the unlimited Bloody Mary option for $7, and I ordered the BBQ Brisket Eggs Benedict on Jalapeno Corn Muffins. AMAZING. So so good. I want it again and again. After brunch, Schmauren hit the road and the remaining three of us wandered down Steinway for a little shopping and coffee, and then the girls headed out for some afternoon sports and beer while I went home for more organizing and napping and grilling of that chicken for lunches this week, etc.
All in all it was a great weekend, and I loved spending so much time with Schmauren, and while I missed Hike as we had more time apart than usual, it was nice to see so many girlfriends and get some things done at home.
Yesterday I had a sore throat, probably from smoking with Schmillie while drinking this weekend (what can I say?) and felt really out of it, but I slept a lot last night and feel much better today. I can tell my body is sometimes fighting something, and if I behaved badly, it would probably progress, but instead I sleep like a cat and it gets better. I haven't been sick in a very long time, people. Yes, I'm [knocking on wood].
Tonight Hike and I are having some delicious Thai food and then seeing The Adjustment Bureau for free with his free movie pass deal, and then sleeping at mine. It's our first midweek sleepover experiment, so we may murder each other when the alarm goes off tomorrow, but hopefully not and it'll be the first of many. I feel very adult, plus I want to share more of our lives, so I'm looking forward to it. If anything it'll help me feel more consistently secure and at peace about things and then hopefully less sensitive to minor infractions.
UMM I'm hungry right now, but should not be. I've been doing fairly well at weight watching during the week, except when eating out, so obviously it's still not that strict but I do what I can. On Sunday I marinated thinly-sliced chicken cutlets in fresh oregano, Worcestershire, mustard, and Cajun seasoning, and grilled it all up at night, so I'm having those in sandwich thins with LT and honey mustard for lunch this week. Four points! Plus a 1-point string cheese. And it was satisfying yesterday (I was good until I ate all those Cadbury Mini Eggs before bed), but I feel hungry right now, and I only ate like an hour and a half ago. This must be mental, right? Maybe I'll eat some Special K to tide me over. UGH I just need my stomach to shrink again! On the inside, I mean.
So of course for dinner I want the Pineapple Fried Rice with Chicken, but that's probably a terrible choice. I'm looking online now for the better options that still sound appealing, but ugh, I wish my metabolism could process delicious food. Oh, food.
Well, obviously I have nothing too exciting going on, but this is the latest. And now I'm ready for a nap.
The weekend was lots of fun. Friday night Hike joined Schmate and Schmillie and AWR (Shmate's mate) for a wine & cheese spread at Schmate's in Murray Hill as our lovely Schmauren was driving down from Boston. As luck would have it, she arrived just in time for the tail end of the spread. Then the merry sixsome headed to the new Murray Hill location of Bareburger, my Astoria favorite, for a variety of meats and milkshakes. It was great to catch up with Schmauren, and then she drove we two Astorians back home for our slumber party at my place.
Saturday Hike and I slept in a bit while Schmauren headed out to meet her old roomie and cutest person ever for brunch...without the food. When I finally roused myself to her phone call, we planned for me to meet them shortly and then we'd all eat together. (I thought she was in my living room this whole time, but I think my creepy roommate scared her off with my spare keys.) It was a lovely brunch and I had a delicious roasted mushroom, scrambled egg, and Parmesan panini with fig spread (that I ordered on the side) to sweeten things up. Then Schmauren and I went for a mani/pedi session, then home to relax (I napped) before heading into the city to meet Schmillie for more wine before dinner. We then walked to explore Eataly and as we didn't want to wait an hour to be seated, we each grabbed a slice of foccaccia pizza to go. So good! We munched and walked down to Flannery's on 7th and 14th for some good drinks, music, and convo. We even scored a table, so it was the perfect destination. We called it a night around 1 am, and I cabbed back to Hike's.
In the morning he had to run off to LI for his fantasy baseball draft, so I walked home, stopping for some groceries along the way, then cleaned and organized in my room and marinated some chicken. Then Schmauren picked me up to meet Schmannon and Schmeather for brunch at MexiQ. It was amazing, though the service and wait time for food was a little slow. But we had lots of time to chat, and we (except Schmauren, who was driving home afterwards) enjoyed the unlimited Bloody Mary option for $7, and I ordered the BBQ Brisket Eggs Benedict on Jalapeno Corn Muffins. AMAZING. So so good. I want it again and again. After brunch, Schmauren hit the road and the remaining three of us wandered down Steinway for a little shopping and coffee, and then the girls headed out for some afternoon sports and beer while I went home for more organizing and napping and grilling of that chicken for lunches this week, etc.
All in all it was a great weekend, and I loved spending so much time with Schmauren, and while I missed Hike as we had more time apart than usual, it was nice to see so many girlfriends and get some things done at home.
Yesterday I had a sore throat, probably from smoking with Schmillie while drinking this weekend (what can I say?) and felt really out of it, but I slept a lot last night and feel much better today. I can tell my body is sometimes fighting something, and if I behaved badly, it would probably progress, but instead I sleep like a cat and it gets better. I haven't been sick in a very long time, people. Yes, I'm [knocking on wood].
Tonight Hike and I are having some delicious Thai food and then seeing The Adjustment Bureau for free with his free movie pass deal, and then sleeping at mine. It's our first midweek sleepover experiment, so we may murder each other when the alarm goes off tomorrow, but hopefully not and it'll be the first of many. I feel very adult, plus I want to share more of our lives, so I'm looking forward to it. If anything it'll help me feel more consistently secure and at peace about things and then hopefully less sensitive to minor infractions.
UMM I'm hungry right now, but should not be. I've been doing fairly well at weight watching during the week, except when eating out, so obviously it's still not that strict but I do what I can. On Sunday I marinated thinly-sliced chicken cutlets in fresh oregano, Worcestershire, mustard, and Cajun seasoning, and grilled it all up at night, so I'm having those in sandwich thins with LT and honey mustard for lunch this week. Four points! Plus a 1-point string cheese. And it was satisfying yesterday (I was good until I ate all those Cadbury Mini Eggs before bed), but I feel hungry right now, and I only ate like an hour and a half ago. This must be mental, right? Maybe I'll eat some Special K to tide me over. UGH I just need my stomach to shrink again! On the inside, I mean.
So of course for dinner I want the Pineapple Fried Rice with Chicken, but that's probably a terrible choice. I'm looking online now for the better options that still sound appealing, but ugh, I wish my metabolism could process delicious food. Oh, food.
Well, obviously I have nothing too exciting going on, but this is the latest. And now I'm ready for a nap.
Monday, February 7, 2011
So This Is the Miracle That I've Been Dreaming Of
Hiii friends. How are we? Isn't it just sunny and warm enough today to make us happier? I think so.
The weekend was lovely. Since I went to bed at 10 pm on Thursday night, I was able to finally kick my week-long headache, so Friday was just fine. I met Schmillie at Rock Center to catch the F down to THE MEATBALL SHOP, which was amazing and we ate entirely too many balls. I had 3 sliders -- pork with mushroom sauce, beef with classic tomato sauce, and chicken with pesto sauce. We shared a salad and roasted squash side dishes, and then had those homemade ice cream sandwiches -- I got caramel ice cream with a ginger snap and a brownie cookie. Oh, and we split a bottle of wine. DELICIOUS. So full. And we lingered for over two hours, which meant they HATED US. It was great though, because we had no wait when we arrived, and when we left there was a two-hour wait. Suckers.
So then I cabbed it back to Astoria, stopped at home due to Crohn's-related issues, then met Hike at Crescent Lounge for a couple of romantic drinks, then back home. Saturday was mellow during the day, then we met up with Schmannon and Schmeather and others at Sweet Afton for a few drinks, then we went across the street to Ovelia for dinner. It was pretty delicious, and it had a nice atmosphere, but the reviews about the long wait time are all true. No one greeted us for about 10-15 minutes, but then I caught the eye of the manager and told her so, and from then out things went rather smoothly. I had the lamb kebabs with fig and cherry tomatoes, and they were amazing. It was a nice date-dinner with great conversation (I'M REALLY TRYING HARD TO NOT GUSH ALL THE DETAILS RIGHT HERE ARRGGHHH), then back to his house to watch Inception (his first time, my second. It makes much more sense to me now.) We were going to watch Shutter Island afterwards (as I'm insisting on watching it on night where I won't sleep alone, as I'll be to scared) but it was too late, so we're saving that one.
Sunday I had a nice walk (of pride?) home in the sunshine, and went to get a mani/pedi, then grocery shop, then home to make Steelers-themed brownies (with just the yellow and brown Reece's Pieces on top), shower, and relax for a bit. Hike picked me up and we went to Schmess' house for the first half of the game (with a great spread of wings, quesedillas, etc.), then drove to his friend Yoshi's house for the second half party. It was a fun night but SO SAD as far as the game goes. My poor father and brother.
Last night when I got home, my roommate told me she'd seen Mex at the bar where she watched the game. With a girl. Ignoring the girl he was with, actually, and quite drunk. It bothered me for about a minute, and I expected to feel more angsty about it, but it lifted and just kind of went away. It does mean I'm still going to be looking around, hoping I don't run into him in the 'hood, but it doesn't depress me anymore that our terrible situation didn't change him. I mean, if anything, it shows that what happened needed to happen to set me free. And I'm also pleasantly surprised that I don't feel to much about it either way. It helps that I've found a nearly perfect boyfriend -- this is what it's supposed to be like.
ANYWAY, I'm very happy today and I feel awake again -- the sunshine and warmth helps a lot. I'm going to reign in the eating habits this week, and then hopefully get back to exercising soon (but not tonight.) OH confession: I smoked two cigarettes on Friday (one with Schmillie and one at the bar) and then one American Spirit on Sunday night. Just for fun. But I don't feel any daily interest in it, so I really think I've quit. I just like to socially indulge now and then. I think that's permissible, as long as the indulgences are few and far between, right?
And it sounds like my parents will visit again this spring. It seems like my mom didn't realize I wanted them to? Whatever, she's weird, but I asked her specifically and so she wants to and will discuss with Dad. They need to meet some people here and I may not have as much time to visit Ohio this year, so it's a good idea for many reasons. That should be FUN.
Fa la la...
The weekend was lovely. Since I went to bed at 10 pm on Thursday night, I was able to finally kick my week-long headache, so Friday was just fine. I met Schmillie at Rock Center to catch the F down to THE MEATBALL SHOP, which was amazing and we ate entirely too many balls. I had 3 sliders -- pork with mushroom sauce, beef with classic tomato sauce, and chicken with pesto sauce. We shared a salad and roasted squash side dishes, and then had those homemade ice cream sandwiches -- I got caramel ice cream with a ginger snap and a brownie cookie. Oh, and we split a bottle of wine. DELICIOUS. So full. And we lingered for over two hours, which meant they HATED US. It was great though, because we had no wait when we arrived, and when we left there was a two-hour wait. Suckers.
So then I cabbed it back to Astoria, stopped at home due to Crohn's-related issues, then met Hike at Crescent Lounge for a couple of romantic drinks, then back home. Saturday was mellow during the day, then we met up with Schmannon and Schmeather and others at Sweet Afton for a few drinks, then we went across the street to Ovelia for dinner. It was pretty delicious, and it had a nice atmosphere, but the reviews about the long wait time are all true. No one greeted us for about 10-15 minutes, but then I caught the eye of the manager and told her so, and from then out things went rather smoothly. I had the lamb kebabs with fig and cherry tomatoes, and they were amazing. It was a nice date-dinner with great conversation (I'M REALLY TRYING HARD TO NOT GUSH ALL THE DETAILS RIGHT HERE ARRGGHHH), then back to his house to watch Inception (his first time, my second. It makes much more sense to me now.) We were going to watch Shutter Island afterwards (as I'm insisting on watching it on night where I won't sleep alone, as I'll be to scared) but it was too late, so we're saving that one.
Sunday I had a nice walk (of pride?) home in the sunshine, and went to get a mani/pedi, then grocery shop, then home to make Steelers-themed brownies (with just the yellow and brown Reece's Pieces on top), shower, and relax for a bit. Hike picked me up and we went to Schmess' house for the first half of the game (with a great spread of wings, quesedillas, etc.), then drove to his friend Yoshi's house for the second half party. It was a fun night but SO SAD as far as the game goes. My poor father and brother.
Last night when I got home, my roommate told me she'd seen Mex at the bar where she watched the game. With a girl. Ignoring the girl he was with, actually, and quite drunk. It bothered me for about a minute, and I expected to feel more angsty about it, but it lifted and just kind of went away. It does mean I'm still going to be looking around, hoping I don't run into him in the 'hood, but it doesn't depress me anymore that our terrible situation didn't change him. I mean, if anything, it shows that what happened needed to happen to set me free. And I'm also pleasantly surprised that I don't feel to much about it either way. It helps that I've found a nearly perfect boyfriend -- this is what it's supposed to be like.
ANYWAY, I'm very happy today and I feel awake again -- the sunshine and warmth helps a lot. I'm going to reign in the eating habits this week, and then hopefully get back to exercising soon (but not tonight.) OH confession: I smoked two cigarettes on Friday (one with Schmillie and one at the bar) and then one American Spirit on Sunday night. Just for fun. But I don't feel any daily interest in it, so I really think I've quit. I just like to socially indulge now and then. I think that's permissible, as long as the indulgences are few and far between, right?
And it sounds like my parents will visit again this spring. It seems like my mom didn't realize I wanted them to? Whatever, she's weird, but I asked her specifically and so she wants to and will discuss with Dad. They need to meet some people here and I may not have as much time to visit Ohio this year, so it's a good idea for many reasons. That should be FUN.
Fa la la...
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Sinead O'Rebellion
I'm so unhappy to be at work today that I have not actually done any work. Take that, The Man. Instead, I spent the morning doodling around online, filling up a Gap/Piperlime shopping cart, booking a facial appointment for tomorrow*, etc. Then Schmate came by to see my office, then we headed to The Gap so I could actually try on the pants I wanted to buy, and I ended up buying two pairs of Skinny Jeans (NOT JEGGINGS, wow, but very comfy real jeans), and 2 pairs of "denim leggings" that just look like pants that I can wear to work with boots. A black pair and a green pair. Weirdly, I bought my usual 6 ankle in the jeans, but I had to get a 10 in the pants, so... whatever, screw you, Gap. Then we had salads at Chop't (I got Tandoori Chicken with a curry vinaigrette -- so good! Probably full of fat.)
So now I'm back at my desk, and I emptied my Gap/Piperlime shopping cart of everything but these boots, which were half off and which I think I can pull off, right? They may go up to my crotch, but I'll fold the tops over if so.
*So once again, my lovely parents gave me a gift certificate to this spa in Astoria for Christmas. I will be getting the Signature Facial at 6:00 pm tomorrow. I can't wait, and it worked out well since Hike has plans for the evening and nobody else wants to hang out with me, so I think a night of self-pampering will do me some good and maybe help get me out of my winter funk. A little bit, at least. And then Hike can still come over for a slumber party and Fraggle Rock after his man date. PERFECT.
Last night I made us baked acorn squash stuffed with rice, sausage, raisins, apples, and onions, and seasoned with curry. It was pretty good, for a sort-of made up recipe, but I found the seasoning to be hit or miss, depending on the bites. I should probably have seasoned more, but overall I was pleased with the dish and my presentation! Then we watched The Kids are Alright. It was also pretty good -- I think after the Oscar nominations, my expectations were raised too high. I liked it, but it didn't blow me away or anything. Also SPOILER ALERT I am really hard-pressed to have sympathy for cheaters, even in fiction. I've always felt this way, but given my more recent experience, it's even more of an issue. But it was a really good evening, staying cozy inside while the snow raged! There was even lightening and thunder -- it was a real snowstorm. Fun until Hike had to dig out his car and drive home at 11 pm. Ugh.
Well, there's a slim chance we're leaving at 4:00 for a goodbye happy hour for one of my co-workers...and I'm SO HOPING it's true. I don't want to drink much no matter what, but then I could milk my one beverage (ok, two) and still be home at a reasonable time. I hate work. I also hate all those people who "do what they love" -- all right, maybe not the people, but come on. I think anything that I HAVE to do, I would hate at some point, right? Like flossing?
Enough rambling for now. Hope some of you were lucky enough to have a snow day today!
So now I'm back at my desk, and I emptied my Gap/Piperlime shopping cart of everything but these boots, which were half off and which I think I can pull off, right? They may go up to my crotch, but I'll fold the tops over if so.
*So once again, my lovely parents gave me a gift certificate to this spa in Astoria for Christmas. I will be getting the Signature Facial at 6:00 pm tomorrow. I can't wait, and it worked out well since Hike has plans for the evening and nobody else wants to hang out with me, so I think a night of self-pampering will do me some good and maybe help get me out of my winter funk. A little bit, at least. And then Hike can still come over for a slumber party and Fraggle Rock after his man date. PERFECT.
Last night I made us baked acorn squash stuffed with rice, sausage, raisins, apples, and onions, and seasoned with curry. It was pretty good, for a sort-of made up recipe, but I found the seasoning to be hit or miss, depending on the bites. I should probably have seasoned more, but overall I was pleased with the dish and my presentation! Then we watched The Kids are Alright. It was also pretty good -- I think after the Oscar nominations, my expectations were raised too high. I liked it, but it didn't blow me away or anything. Also SPOILER ALERT I am really hard-pressed to have sympathy for cheaters, even in fiction. I've always felt this way, but given my more recent experience, it's even more of an issue. But it was a really good evening, staying cozy inside while the snow raged! There was even lightening and thunder -- it was a real snowstorm. Fun until Hike had to dig out his car and drive home at 11 pm. Ugh.
Well, there's a slim chance we're leaving at 4:00 for a goodbye happy hour for one of my co-workers...and I'm SO HOPING it's true. I don't want to drink much no matter what, but then I could milk my one beverage (ok, two) and still be home at a reasonable time. I hate work. I also hate all those people who "do what they love" -- all right, maybe not the people, but come on. I think anything that I HAVE to do, I would hate at some point, right? Like flossing?
Enough rambling for now. Hope some of you were lucky enough to have a snow day today!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
The Winter of our (Dis?)content
Hello muffins. I hope you're somewhere dry and warm today! I am, but actually, I wish I'd be sent out in the snow to GO HOME EARLY. Alas, I think that's unlikely.
For all of my complaining about needing to hibernate, this week has been rather productive, at least after Monday at work. Monday evening I was all set to be lazy, but after a brief passive-aggressive e-mail discussion with the roomie, I ended up starting to clean the apartment and then doing the whole thing, including scrubbing, dusting, vacuuming, mopping, etc. I had anger for energy for awhile, and then it just felt good to get it clean again. I also then had an excuse to throw all of her clutter crap in her room, which made me feel better. I will admit that while I'm maybe not the best at keeping things clean (with scrubbings/vacuumings), I'm very good at avoiding clutter, especially in shared spaces. And she is the opposite, which bugs me quite often. And me moving her piles o' crap off of needed surfaces doesn't seem to get my point across, so if I have to clean in order to do so, I will. At least she was so inspired by my efforts when she got home that she put the rest of the her Christmas boxes away in the closet, so now we're really neat & tidy! For a few days.
Yesterday I again abandoned any exercise plans and did my laundry, and then while putting it away, managed to find some clothes I need to get rid of. There is more sorting to do, but with half of my dresser drawers broken (due to buying cheap crappy used furniture), I'm really out of storage space so a good parsing of the wardrobe is needed. I also found some lingerie that had been hiding in my drawers (ha) and tried everything on to determine what I could made good use of, so that was fun. And I watched Sunday's episode of Downton Abbey. Is anyone watching this? Were you also frustrated about the unanswered confession of love?! Argh.
Oh right, and I'm up 4 pounds, per the scale this morning. It is bothersome and I feel heavy, but I know I can lose it rather quickly when I get strict about eating again. I'm not going to go higher, I PROMISE, WORLD.
So tonight Hike is coming over and I'm going to make stuffed squash and a veggie for dinner. We have squash from our winter CSA, and I'll use up some pantry items (raisins, rice, walnuts, onions) and buy just some sausage and herbs and it should be delish, though it's another thing I've never made before. Oh well, it can't go that badly, can it? [knocking on desk...] Hopefully it won't be too labor-intensive either, as I'm sort of worn out today.
I just smoked a cigarette, because I wanted to see what it was like again. It's been since last Friday. It wasn't too great -- it tastes bad and makes me feel like I can't breath. I'm sure I'll need to check that again at some point, but I'm basically a non-smoker, right? And I'm starting my Crest WhiteStrips Professional regimen, which will take up lots of time (30 minutes a day! What?) but hopefully be noticeable and pretty.
Yes, the snow will be piling up all day and into tonight, but I've sort of abandoned hope for a snow day this winter. I think I missed the biggest, suprisiest storm, and now it's old hat for everyone. Sad.
And that's the news here. I wish it were more thrilling, I really do.
For all of my complaining about needing to hibernate, this week has been rather productive, at least after Monday at work. Monday evening I was all set to be lazy, but after a brief passive-aggressive e-mail discussion with the roomie, I ended up starting to clean the apartment and then doing the whole thing, including scrubbing, dusting, vacuuming, mopping, etc. I had anger for energy for awhile, and then it just felt good to get it clean again. I also then had an excuse to throw all of her clutter crap in her room, which made me feel better. I will admit that while I'm maybe not the best at keeping things clean (with scrubbings/vacuumings), I'm very good at avoiding clutter, especially in shared spaces. And she is the opposite, which bugs me quite often. And me moving her piles o' crap off of needed surfaces doesn't seem to get my point across, so if I have to clean in order to do so, I will. At least she was so inspired by my efforts when she got home that she put the rest of the her Christmas boxes away in the closet, so now we're really neat & tidy! For a few days.
Yesterday I again abandoned any exercise plans and did my laundry, and then while putting it away, managed to find some clothes I need to get rid of. There is more sorting to do, but with half of my dresser drawers broken (due to buying cheap crappy used furniture), I'm really out of storage space so a good parsing of the wardrobe is needed. I also found some lingerie that had been hiding in my drawers (ha) and tried everything on to determine what I could made good use of, so that was fun. And I watched Sunday's episode of Downton Abbey. Is anyone watching this? Were you also frustrated about the unanswered confession of love?! Argh.
Oh right, and I'm up 4 pounds, per the scale this morning. It is bothersome and I feel heavy, but I know I can lose it rather quickly when I get strict about eating again. I'm not going to go higher, I PROMISE, WORLD.
So tonight Hike is coming over and I'm going to make stuffed squash and a veggie for dinner. We have squash from our winter CSA, and I'll use up some pantry items (raisins, rice, walnuts, onions) and buy just some sausage and herbs and it should be delish, though it's another thing I've never made before. Oh well, it can't go that badly, can it? [knocking on desk...] Hopefully it won't be too labor-intensive either, as I'm sort of worn out today.
I just smoked a cigarette, because I wanted to see what it was like again. It's been since last Friday. It wasn't too great -- it tastes bad and makes me feel like I can't breath. I'm sure I'll need to check that again at some point, but I'm basically a non-smoker, right? And I'm starting my Crest WhiteStrips Professional regimen, which will take up lots of time (30 minutes a day! What?) but hopefully be noticeable and pretty.
Yes, the snow will be piling up all day and into tonight, but I've sort of abandoned hope for a snow day this winter. I think I missed the biggest, suprisiest storm, and now it's old hat for everyone. Sad.
And that's the news here. I wish it were more thrilling, I really do.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Good Mood Swing
Well I'm feeling rather jolly at the moment, and there's not an exact reason, but I'm going to just enjoy this upswing in my mood. The combination of not smoking and PMS has been pretty lovely lately, so at least this is the benefit of the ol' rollercoaster.
Last night I snow hiked (fine, walked) to the library to return a book by the 6 pm closing. Please tell me why they can't keep the drop-off box unlocked when the library is closed. Fine, I know there are vandals, but there are also loyal library patrons who can't always get there during work hours, jerks. Anyway, I dropped off the Nancy Drew biography (of the authors) unfinished, but it wasn't quite as much about Nancy as I was hoping. I did have time to grab one of those Phillipa Gregory books that I think I will enjoy, as well as one by Anita Shreve. I'm looking forward to reading them after I finish the book club book, and I'm almost done now. I'm enjoying it for the most part, but it's almost like I don't care about the main framework and just want to know more about certain people's stories. But it's interesting and a fast read.
Oh, then I picked up groceries after the library, stuff to make minestrone soup (with turkey sausage instead of the chicken it called for) and then my White Chicken Chili, which was originally Nora's Green Turkey Chili, but I use chicken instead and think "Green" sounds gross in a recipe title. But the chili is delicious and easy in the crock pot, so I want to make it some weekend day soon. It helps that Hike is such a fan of my cooking -- it makes it fun to show off a little. So I lugged all the groceries (uuuggghhh always so heavy) to the pharmacy to drop off a script and pick up another, and buy MILK (more heavy) for the weekend, then home. I made the soup with lots of yummy fresh veg, organized my pantry shelves, ate the rest of my lunch from yesterday for dinner while watching TruBlood, talked to Hike for a bit, then finally started the 4th disk of Brideshead Revisited. I had never finished that series and it was hiding in my queue, but now that I'm back on the Brits, I felt like finishing 'er up. I think I only have an episode and a half left.
It was a good night! I do feel bad about still not getting to the gym, but since my diet has more impact on my weight than exercise, I decided it's more important to have healthy foods ready to eat. Once I'm stocked up that way, and when I have free time, then it'll be gym time. Also, walking in the snow was a bit trudging, especially when carrying billions of pounds of groceries. That had to burn some extra calories.
Tonight is the Gayte with Hike, and I'll meet his college roommate and roommate's friend for the first time. I think it should be lots of fun, and I can't wait till 5 -- we're grabbing an early Thai dinner beforehand, so the fun will begin right away.
And then FINALLY it's the weekend. Henna Party (I'll bring rubber gloves and vaseline! TWSS!), dates, chili, Fraggle Rock, etc. Le sigh.
Last night I snow hiked (fine, walked) to the library to return a book by the 6 pm closing. Please tell me why they can't keep the drop-off box unlocked when the library is closed. Fine, I know there are vandals, but there are also loyal library patrons who can't always get there during work hours, jerks. Anyway, I dropped off the Nancy Drew biography (of the authors) unfinished, but it wasn't quite as much about Nancy as I was hoping. I did have time to grab one of those Phillipa Gregory books that I think I will enjoy, as well as one by Anita Shreve. I'm looking forward to reading them after I finish the book club book, and I'm almost done now. I'm enjoying it for the most part, but it's almost like I don't care about the main framework and just want to know more about certain people's stories. But it's interesting and a fast read.
Oh, then I picked up groceries after the library, stuff to make minestrone soup (with turkey sausage instead of the chicken it called for) and then my White Chicken Chili, which was originally Nora's Green Turkey Chili, but I use chicken instead and think "Green" sounds gross in a recipe title. But the chili is delicious and easy in the crock pot, so I want to make it some weekend day soon. It helps that Hike is such a fan of my cooking -- it makes it fun to show off a little. So I lugged all the groceries (uuuggghhh always so heavy) to the pharmacy to drop off a script and pick up another, and buy MILK (more heavy) for the weekend, then home. I made the soup with lots of yummy fresh veg, organized my pantry shelves, ate the rest of my lunch from yesterday for dinner while watching TruBlood, talked to Hike for a bit, then finally started the 4th disk of Brideshead Revisited. I had never finished that series and it was hiding in my queue, but now that I'm back on the Brits, I felt like finishing 'er up. I think I only have an episode and a half left.
It was a good night! I do feel bad about still not getting to the gym, but since my diet has more impact on my weight than exercise, I decided it's more important to have healthy foods ready to eat. Once I'm stocked up that way, and when I have free time, then it'll be gym time. Also, walking in the snow was a bit trudging, especially when carrying billions of pounds of groceries. That had to burn some extra calories.
Tonight is the Gayte with Hike, and I'll meet his college roommate and roommate's friend for the first time. I think it should be lots of fun, and I can't wait till 5 -- we're grabbing an early Thai dinner beforehand, so the fun will begin right away.
And then FINALLY it's the weekend. Henna Party (I'll bring rubber gloves and vaseline! TWSS!), dates, chili, Fraggle Rock, etc. Le sigh.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Why Am I Here (and Where Am I Going?)
Well, this was one of those snow"storms" where the boss said "Come in if you can do so safely. If you want to work from home, that's OK." But yeah, I live in Astoria, not Long Island or New Jersey, so the gd honor code makes me feel like I have to show up! Argghh. This morning was productively spent cleaning out my inboxes (work and Gmail) and calling insurance companies or doctors' offices about all sorts of incorrect billing issues. Stupid health insurance and doctors' offices. But then a few of us went out to a nice lunch (why do we split it EVENLY when only two of you had BEER? Not fair.) and now I have my window open because it's as hot as hell in here, but there's some Haiti protest outside that is riling me up and making me even less interested in work. I just want to GOOOOOO.
I do think I'll leave a little early because I have an overdue library book, and why not walk to the library by 6 pm (when it closes) and then grocery shop instead of going to the gym? That sounds reasonable, right? Snow walking is probably even better exercise than regular walking -- kind of like beach walking.
I am happy to unexpectedly have a free night tonight. I was supposed to be volunteering at our CSA, but the delivery was rescheduled for tomorrow (due to "storm") so now I'm out of it, and the roomie will pick up the veggies tomorrow since I have a Very Gay Date. A Gayte. This week's been nice so far, but I still just want to hibernate. Monday I did my laundry and watched Downton Abbey, then last night Hike came over with leftover Sunday dinner from Grandma, and I made some veggies, and we watched my third cousin Tosh on Comedy Central then snuggled up for some Fraggle Rock and snow watching. So tonight I'll maybe make another soup after the snow walk, then hibernate some more.
At least the Haitians seem to have ended their yelling. Now I just have to stay awake at my desk.
OH, so I had one cigarette yesterday and I do feel ashamed, but other than that, I haven't smoked since Sunday night. It's really getting harder, actually -- though when I smoked that one, it wasn't so special. It didn't taste great or anything, and it made me feel like a failure. And otherwise I've been feeling pretty proud of myself, and like a respectable citizen and all of that. It's nice to not be ashamed of anything, really, even though I hadn't realized how much I was subconsciously while smoking. So maybe now would be a good time to make a list of reasons why I am quitting? Feel free to add any in the comments, friends.
Oh, and I'm also trying to drink even less right now so that I'm not tempted, since nothing's better than smoking while drinking. (I mean, THAT'S NOT TRUE, SELF.) I didn't have a beer at lunch even though two of the guys did, but this Friday's Henna Party will be a tough trial. So wish me luck, friends. I mostly just need to not WANT those little cancer sticks. I am better than them, RIGHT?
I do think I'll leave a little early because I have an overdue library book, and why not walk to the library by 6 pm (when it closes) and then grocery shop instead of going to the gym? That sounds reasonable, right? Snow walking is probably even better exercise than regular walking -- kind of like beach walking.
I am happy to unexpectedly have a free night tonight. I was supposed to be volunteering at our CSA, but the delivery was rescheduled for tomorrow (due to "storm") so now I'm out of it, and the roomie will pick up the veggies tomorrow since I have a Very Gay Date. A Gayte. This week's been nice so far, but I still just want to hibernate. Monday I did my laundry and watched Downton Abbey, then last night Hike came over with leftover Sunday dinner from Grandma, and I made some veggies, and we watched my third cousin Tosh on Comedy Central then snuggled up for some Fraggle Rock and snow watching. So tonight I'll maybe make another soup after the snow walk, then hibernate some more.
At least the Haitians seem to have ended their yelling. Now I just have to stay awake at my desk.
OH, so I had one cigarette yesterday and I do feel ashamed, but other than that, I haven't smoked since Sunday night. It's really getting harder, actually -- though when I smoked that one, it wasn't so special. It didn't taste great or anything, and it made me feel like a failure. And otherwise I've been feeling pretty proud of myself, and like a respectable citizen and all of that. It's nice to not be ashamed of anything, really, even though I hadn't realized how much I was subconsciously while smoking. So maybe now would be a good time to make a list of reasons why I am quitting? Feel free to add any in the comments, friends.
- Obviously it is bad for my health. While things like cancer and lung problems seem far away (knock on wood), the more immediate impact is the exacerbation of my Crohn's, stressing my poor heart that is also on birth control, and irritation of my gums.
- It is low-class. I take pride in my ability to be something of a chameleon in this area -- I love dive bars and canned beer but could also fit in at higher society functions (or at least I've been believing this for awhile.) But smoking is decidedly for the poors and rednecks. It doesn't fit with my self-image. And that said, my self-image has been changing a bit lately, too -- fewer crazy nights in trashy bars with trashier men, and more home- and family-oriented time. I feel better about this change already.
- It makes me stinky. I've obviously grown accustomed to the smell, but now that I'm dating someone whom I still want to impress, I'm more aware of smelling like smoke, and especially having dragon breath. I am chewing lots of gum (which I'd do anyway) but I'm sure peppermint tobacco isn't a great mixture to French kiss.
- It also makes me miss things. I excuse myself to smoke and always enjoyed the break from work or the party or the noise or the difficult conversation, etc., but now I am leaving my dreamy boyfriend alone or missing funny things at the party, and I hate missing great stuff.
- I am thinking more about marriage and family in my near-ish future, and I certainly don't want to be a smoker for any of those phases of my life, when I'm "grown-up" and need to be healthy and happy and in great reproductive shape.
- I was spending about $12 every two days on a pack of cigs (not including the drinking times when I smoke more,) and that means $42 a week, $168 a month, and $2016 a year. Ridiculous.
Oh, and I'm also trying to drink even less right now so that I'm not tempted, since nothing's better than smoking while drinking. (I mean, THAT'S NOT TRUE, SELF.) I didn't have a beer at lunch even though two of the guys did, but this Friday's Henna Party will be a tough trial. So wish me luck, friends. I mostly just need to not WANT those little cancer sticks. I am better than them, RIGHT?
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Making the Yuletide Gay Since 1981
Hello snow angels. Happy Tuesday! I'm lucky that I'm finally mostly caught up with my work, because I can't focus for the life of me. I'm so busy organizing my personal life that I'd say I'm only putting 50% effort into the work tasks. Oh well, happy holidays!
So let's talk about how productive I've been. I'm such a nerd because this makes me very happy. Last night I wrote the majority of my Christmas cards after I went to the gym and got back on the elliptical for the first time in forever (I usually prefer the bike). Then I was at the DMV License Express this morning at 8:40, later than I wanted to arrive, but I was in and out in 10 minutes -- it was so easy and quick! TWSS. I also got a glimpse of my new photo on the computer screen when they were processing my renewal, and I think it's an improvement over the bloated horridness of my old one. I hope. While my bonus after taxes isn't quite enough to cover my student loans ($400 ish short), I'm going to use a bit of savings and get them paid by end of week. I'm in good shape with work (despite my lack of effort) and tonight I'm going to cook dinner for Hike.
I plan on making these chicken apple sausages with whipped or baked sweet potatoes and some braised greens that I will invent. It should be yummy and seasonal, and he already told me it sounded "intoxicating." I mean, I'd cook anyway, but it's more fun when someone else is amazed.
I can't stop eating the Godiva chocolates that someone sent to our office. I keep taking comfort in the fact that they're almost gone, but I'm sure another gift package of goodies will arrive soon. God, I have no willpower whatsoever. Our work holiday party is going to be at this Brazilian steakhouse, heaven help me. It's one of those where they bring you meat until you signal that you don't want anymore, and all the guys are already talking major eating contest. Whereas my goal is "enjoy myself and do not make myself sick." I mean, that's sort of my life philosophy, but specifically at a meat buffet. It's this Friday for lunch, and then we'll go out afterwards (if I can stand up) for more drinking festivities. It'll be fun, but my level of nervousness about my own lack of self-control is ridiculous. I need to get a grip.
So now I think I've decided that I want an iPod Nano for Christmas (since my oooold iPod isn't going to last much longer), but I'm going to ask my parents. Well, this is all rambly since nothing exciting is going on, but isn't life grand, mes amies?
And that's what's in my head today. How is it only Tuesday? Why isn't it NEXT TUESDAY and almost the holiday? I am SO EXCITED to go home to Ohiooooo. Because it's round on both ends and hi in the middle. Yeah, that's right.
So let's talk about how productive I've been. I'm such a nerd because this makes me very happy. Last night I wrote the majority of my Christmas cards after I went to the gym and got back on the elliptical for the first time in forever (I usually prefer the bike). Then I was at the DMV License Express this morning at 8:40, later than I wanted to arrive, but I was in and out in 10 minutes -- it was so easy and quick! TWSS. I also got a glimpse of my new photo on the computer screen when they were processing my renewal, and I think it's an improvement over the bloated horridness of my old one. I hope. While my bonus after taxes isn't quite enough to cover my student loans ($400 ish short), I'm going to use a bit of savings and get them paid by end of week. I'm in good shape with work (despite my lack of effort) and tonight I'm going to cook dinner for Hike.
I plan on making these chicken apple sausages with whipped or baked sweet potatoes and some braised greens that I will invent. It should be yummy and seasonal, and he already told me it sounded "intoxicating." I mean, I'd cook anyway, but it's more fun when someone else is amazed.
I can't stop eating the Godiva chocolates that someone sent to our office. I keep taking comfort in the fact that they're almost gone, but I'm sure another gift package of goodies will arrive soon. God, I have no willpower whatsoever. Our work holiday party is going to be at this Brazilian steakhouse, heaven help me. It's one of those where they bring you meat until you signal that you don't want anymore, and all the guys are already talking major eating contest. Whereas my goal is "enjoy myself and do not make myself sick." I mean, that's sort of my life philosophy, but specifically at a meat buffet. It's this Friday for lunch, and then we'll go out afterwards (if I can stand up) for more drinking festivities. It'll be fun, but my level of nervousness about my own lack of self-control is ridiculous. I need to get a grip.
So now I think I've decided that I want an iPod Nano for Christmas (since my oooold iPod isn't going to last much longer), but I'm going to ask my parents. Well, this is all rambly since nothing exciting is going on, but isn't life grand, mes amies?
And that's what's in my head today. How is it only Tuesday? Why isn't it NEXT TUESDAY and almost the holiday? I am SO EXCITED to go home to Ohiooooo. Because it's round on both ends and hi in the middle. Yeah, that's right.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Fishing in the Wrong Pond
Friends! Romans! Countrymen!
I've been avoiding you, I'm sorry. I haven't been ready for the necessary amount of reflection to post here, which is silly, but my brain wants to be a hermit sometimes lately. I think I've been a little sad and lonely and lethargic, and I was having some strange stomach pains that were helping me feel like DYING, but I think they've gotten better. I probably can't allow myself as much cheating on how I should be eating with Crohn's. Suck.
So the weekend. Friday I was home from work with a weird side pain that had gotten worse since Wednesday. But Thursday night it had gotten really steady and dull (as opposed to just sharp when I coughed/laughed/laid on it) and I also had a near-pass out at home. I'm glad the roomie was there, as I sort of zombie walked into the living room, feeling like I was about to lose it (with the ringing ears, sweats, nausea symptoms) and she freaked out about what color I was and ended her phone convo to get me water and watch me try to stay conscious for a bit. It went away after about 15 minutes, but she put me in bed and took my temperature and it was very nice to have a nurse. And she actually called a nurse friend of hers to explain my pain and that reaction and see if we should go to the ER...but the nurse said if I didn't have a fever, I could probably wait until the morning. So I saw the doc Friday morning, and she sort of laughed at me for thinking I might have a hernia (I don't know) and also didn't explain the fainting, but said to eat a bland diet and rest. So after the doctor, I did some work from home while propped on pillows on my bed, then made two different zucchini soups (well, a lentil soup recipe from Schmillie with bonus zuc) and a chocolate zucchini bread. It was fun and productive but it took all afternoon. At night I was pretty exhuasted, so in lieu of meeting Schmess and her sister for dinner, I watched Mad Men and then went to bed.
Saturday I felt pretty normal so I took advantage of the weather and weeded out our front garden plot. It looks great, and I think my favorite part is trimming hedges. Then I got cleaned up (and trimmed my own hedges, heh) and went over to Schmeather's to meet she and Shmannon for some hanging out/beer/falafel pitas, then we went out to Sunswick (where I had two pumpkin beers that were 9% abv...you know where this is going) and then Mad Donkey (another Astoria bar), and then I decided to head into the city to go to a friend's 40th bday party (my old friend from dodgeball...that i hooked up with years ago) and so I saw some of the old crew there, and we played pool (it was at Amsterdam Billiards) and it was nice. Roomie was there with a friend, but I was mingling so I didn't get over-roomied. I also met this rockabilly-type guy and asked him to be my date for the Avett Bros concert next week -- what? Now I'm not sure if I really want him to, but I have his number and we texted a little that night. Anyway, I left the party and was trying to meet back up with Schmannon and Schmeather, but Schmeath had picked up an Austrian and Schmannon had picked up a guy she hooked up with last week, and then Al texted me and wanted to play pool, so I went to meet Al and play pool. It was fun, but man, guys are disgusting. Not Al, but all other men, really. My cabdriver (who was just nice and not sexual) asked me on a date before dropping me off (I SAID NO) and then the other guys at the dive bar just felt it was OK to make creepy comments to me, so that's awesome. Al kept saying to tell him if someone was causing a problem, but it's not like I actually wanted anyone to fight, I was just getting annoyed at men in general. I know, not fair, but it was a bad run of creepers. Anyway, pool, Al being mushy and in love with me, a bit of bar cuddling/kissing, then he we walked me home and made me have a relationship conversation (it's so weird being on the other end of this) where I said as little as possible but apologized for hurting his feelings. Though now I remember he was also being very sexually complimentary and I won't disturb you with what he said, but lord, I feel weird having my vagina complimented in a bar. AMIRIGHT? And then bed at 4 am.
Sunday I was hungover and watched more Mad Men and Kick-Ass in bed and ordered Chinese and that's about it. At least I felt productive up until then, but I no longer wish to deal with hangovers in any other way but total laziness. Schmannon and Schmeather were back out and wanted me to come, but I couldn't imagine. Also I was super sore from weeding, so that's it.
And then Monday brought a rainy cold day and another tummy ache, so it was home after work and right into pj's and a Veronica Mars marathon. Last night I had dodgeball, which was frustrating, as half of my team doesn't try very hard and no one wanted to go out afterwards. Actually, that part was OK, as I was home and am not hungover today, just sleepy from staying up too late on the phone. But my team is annoying, except for the three friends (two from kickball), and two of them were out of town and the third, engaged friend's FIANCE was there. Lameballs.
So today my spirits are up but my eyelids are droopy, and so let's hope it goes quickly at work. Let's also try to figure out what I need to change so that I don't want to run away to a farm somewhere.
I've been avoiding you, I'm sorry. I haven't been ready for the necessary amount of reflection to post here, which is silly, but my brain wants to be a hermit sometimes lately. I think I've been a little sad and lonely and lethargic, and I was having some strange stomach pains that were helping me feel like DYING, but I think they've gotten better. I probably can't allow myself as much cheating on how I should be eating with Crohn's. Suck.
So the weekend. Friday I was home from work with a weird side pain that had gotten worse since Wednesday. But Thursday night it had gotten really steady and dull (as opposed to just sharp when I coughed/laughed/laid on it) and I also had a near-pass out at home. I'm glad the roomie was there, as I sort of zombie walked into the living room, feeling like I was about to lose it (with the ringing ears, sweats, nausea symptoms) and she freaked out about what color I was and ended her phone convo to get me water and watch me try to stay conscious for a bit. It went away after about 15 minutes, but she put me in bed and took my temperature and it was very nice to have a nurse. And she actually called a nurse friend of hers to explain my pain and that reaction and see if we should go to the ER...but the nurse said if I didn't have a fever, I could probably wait until the morning. So I saw the doc Friday morning, and she sort of laughed at me for thinking I might have a hernia (I don't know) and also didn't explain the fainting, but said to eat a bland diet and rest. So after the doctor, I did some work from home while propped on pillows on my bed, then made two different zucchini soups (well, a lentil soup recipe from Schmillie with bonus zuc) and a chocolate zucchini bread. It was fun and productive but it took all afternoon. At night I was pretty exhuasted, so in lieu of meeting Schmess and her sister for dinner, I watched Mad Men and then went to bed.
Saturday I felt pretty normal so I took advantage of the weather and weeded out our front garden plot. It looks great, and I think my favorite part is trimming hedges. Then I got cleaned up (and trimmed my own hedges, heh) and went over to Schmeather's to meet she and Shmannon for some hanging out/beer/falafel pitas, then we went out to Sunswick (where I had two pumpkin beers that were 9% abv...you know where this is going) and then Mad Donkey (another Astoria bar), and then I decided to head into the city to go to a friend's 40th bday party (my old friend from dodgeball...that i hooked up with years ago) and so I saw some of the old crew there, and we played pool (it was at Amsterdam Billiards) and it was nice. Roomie was there with a friend, but I was mingling so I didn't get over-roomied. I also met this rockabilly-type guy and asked him to be my date for the Avett Bros concert next week -- what? Now I'm not sure if I really want him to, but I have his number and we texted a little that night. Anyway, I left the party and was trying to meet back up with Schmannon and Schmeather, but Schmeath had picked up an Austrian and Schmannon had picked up a guy she hooked up with last week, and then Al texted me and wanted to play pool, so I went to meet Al and play pool. It was fun, but man, guys are disgusting. Not Al, but all other men, really. My cabdriver (who was just nice and not sexual) asked me on a date before dropping me off (I SAID NO) and then the other guys at the dive bar just felt it was OK to make creepy comments to me, so that's awesome. Al kept saying to tell him if someone was causing a problem, but it's not like I actually wanted anyone to fight, I was just getting annoyed at men in general. I know, not fair, but it was a bad run of creepers. Anyway, pool, Al being mushy and in love with me, a bit of bar cuddling/kissing, then he we walked me home and made me have a relationship conversation (it's so weird being on the other end of this) where I said as little as possible but apologized for hurting his feelings. Though now I remember he was also being very sexually complimentary and I won't disturb you with what he said, but lord, I feel weird having my vagina complimented in a bar. AMIRIGHT? And then bed at 4 am.
Sunday I was hungover and watched more Mad Men and Kick-Ass in bed and ordered Chinese and that's about it. At least I felt productive up until then, but I no longer wish to deal with hangovers in any other way but total laziness. Schmannon and Schmeather were back out and wanted me to come, but I couldn't imagine. Also I was super sore from weeding, so that's it.
And then Monday brought a rainy cold day and another tummy ache, so it was home after work and right into pj's and a Veronica Mars marathon. Last night I had dodgeball, which was frustrating, as half of my team doesn't try very hard and no one wanted to go out afterwards. Actually, that part was OK, as I was home and am not hungover today, just sleepy from staying up too late on the phone. But my team is annoying, except for the three friends (two from kickball), and two of them were out of town and the third, engaged friend's FIANCE was there. Lameballs.
So today my spirits are up but my eyelids are droopy, and so let's hope it goes quickly at work. Let's also try to figure out what I need to change so that I don't want to run away to a farm somewhere.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Coffee Coffee Coffee and What I Ate
So I've been drinking more coffee in the mornings because I've been cold in my office and because we have a new pot in the kitchen so it's convenient and because it staves off hunger, but now I am feeling preeeettty wired. It's like the Halloween Garfield episode where he becomes a candy addict and just says CANDY CANDY CANDY over and over. I would post a video, but I forgot my earphones so I can't vet the Youtube results before sharing. I wouldn't want to put up something too scary. Or...let's try this. IS IT THE ONE?
So today is gloomy, eh? It seems hard to believe that it's not going to rain, but that's what the weatherman says. I would pretty much prefer the rain so that I didn't have to practice softball and I could go home and make Creamy Ricotta-Artichoke Lasagna (the recipe I found last week) (speaking of Garfield), now that I grocery-shopped for it last night. And then Mex could come over for a cozy dinner, and my roomie would be gone for the whole evening, and...sigh. Instead, it's supposed to clear up and we'll practice for three hours. I'm sure it'll be fun once I get out there (?) but it's not sounding so good.
I just finished writing another book proposal for my freelance pimp. I love being done and hopefully not having another on my plate for a few days...though he's already talking to me about his editing his graphic novel. We shall see. At least I've decided to raise my rates for the next project, so that'll be some nice extra shopping money.
Walking home last night was just lovely, and I didn't suffer any loss of motivation, which is rare, especially for a Monday. Then I had a moderately successful grocery shopping trip, though my stupid local store manager thought it was strange that I would want to buy pine nuts. So I went to the slightly pricier but nicer store up the street, thanks. Then home for dinner, How I Met Your Mother, a phone call from Mex, then fairly early to bed, though I didn't sleep right away despite being leg-tired from my walking. Oh well, my active mind is a curse.
Last night I dreamt about that friend who maybe is in love with me. This was the second dream I'd had about him being in love with me, and it developed to where we were kissing, but I was cheating on Mex in the dream and very conflicted. Also, friend was drunk, as he was in the first dream. What does it all mean? Do I only think drunk men love me? (That would be sad.) Obviously I'm slightly intrigued at the possibilities of him loving me, but it's just so vivid in the dreams, and I sort of feel guilt today, even if it's all imaginary. So strange.
Today's eating.
B - Special K, milk, coffee - 4
L - turkey & swiss sammy, yogurt with strawberries - 6
D - TBD, may be out after softball
S - string cheese, soup, granny bar - 4
Total - 14 plus dinner
Activity - either softball or cooking lasagna
So today is gloomy, eh? It seems hard to believe that it's not going to rain, but that's what the weatherman says. I would pretty much prefer the rain so that I didn't have to practice softball and I could go home and make Creamy Ricotta-Artichoke Lasagna (the recipe I found last week) (speaking of Garfield), now that I grocery-shopped for it last night. And then Mex could come over for a cozy dinner, and my roomie would be gone for the whole evening, and...sigh. Instead, it's supposed to clear up and we'll practice for three hours. I'm sure it'll be fun once I get out there (?) but it's not sounding so good.
I just finished writing another book proposal for my freelance pimp. I love being done and hopefully not having another on my plate for a few days...though he's already talking to me about his editing his graphic novel. We shall see. At least I've decided to raise my rates for the next project, so that'll be some nice extra shopping money.
Walking home last night was just lovely, and I didn't suffer any loss of motivation, which is rare, especially for a Monday. Then I had a moderately successful grocery shopping trip, though my stupid local store manager thought it was strange that I would want to buy pine nuts. So I went to the slightly pricier but nicer store up the street, thanks. Then home for dinner, How I Met Your Mother, a phone call from Mex, then fairly early to bed, though I didn't sleep right away despite being leg-tired from my walking. Oh well, my active mind is a curse.
Last night I dreamt about that friend who maybe is in love with me. This was the second dream I'd had about him being in love with me, and it developed to where we were kissing, but I was cheating on Mex in the dream and very conflicted. Also, friend was drunk, as he was in the first dream. What does it all mean? Do I only think drunk men love me? (That would be sad.) Obviously I'm slightly intrigued at the possibilities of him loving me, but it's just so vivid in the dreams, and I sort of feel guilt today, even if it's all imaginary. So strange.
Today's eating.
B - Special K, milk, coffee - 4
L - turkey & swiss sammy, yogurt with strawberries - 6
D - TBD, may be out after softball
S - string cheese, soup, granny bar - 4
Total - 14 plus dinner
Activity - either softball or cooking lasagna
Friday, March 26, 2010
Get Your Booty on the Floor Tonight and What I Ate
Apparently they are testing the fire alarm system in my office building, but not the noisy part, just the flashing strobe light part. While the regular office lights are on, I have two bright strobe lights in view from my desk and if they don't stop soon, I'm either going to have a seizure or crank this up:
Work is pretty mellow otherwise, and I've now forced myself to work on something, for at least an hour or two. I think if I make good progress on this long-standing project today, I'll do some freelancing this afternoon. If it's not raining, I will also take a little walk after lunch to Victoria's Secret at Herald Square to redeem one of those "free panty" coupons and to move around a bit. Panties!
Last night's dinner took a very long time to prepare (there was a lot of chopping!) but it tasted great and I'm ecstatic to know how easy it is to make my own sweet potato fries! I cut the potatoes with a knife, as I don't have a fancy fry maker, and Mex couldn't get over how I made them look like "real" fries, all professional-like. I was like Really, this is what impresses you? Ok, fine, I'll take it. (To be fair, he was complimentary about the whole meal, too.) I also bought my bus tickets for Boston (with his advisement) and that was surprisingly only exciting and drama-free. Is it too good to be true, dear reader?
Good news, my key necklace just arrived! I really like it. It doesn't quite go with the neckline of my polo shirt, but I may wear it now anyway.
The weekend is shaping up to be a good one. Tonight is going to be low-key at home, but I have Whip It from Netflix and I've been on the wait list for awhile for that one, so I'm really looking forward to it. I think the plan is that Mex will come over at some point and we'll watch and hang out. (I thought it was going to be a roomie-free night, but apparently her plans that I was warned of are daytime plans. Lame.) Tomorrow I am going to run suburban-type errands in Queenz with Schmate, then we'll head back to Astoria and catch up with Schmauren for supper! I love the blend of plans, and it also means I probably won't have any big drinking temptations because it's likely we'll disband after eating. (I mean, that's a good thing on its own, but it'll also help me not have SMOKING temptations.)
I think I'll buy some Crest Whitestrips tonight on my way home, so I can a) have whiter teeth, especially for in-law-family meeting, and b) feel guiltier if I have a cigarette. Good idea, yes? Too bad I've failed at finding any online coupons for those suckers.
Today's food:
B - Special K, milk, coffee - 4
L - turkey & swiss, apple - 5
D - TBD
S - yogurt, granny bar
The question is, do I cook tonight or get something delicious delivered? Ohhh the weekend and its yummy food temptations.
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