Thursday, August 25, 2011

oodreads Updates...


Bridget Jones's Diary (Bridget Jones, #1)Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A book to be read more than once, every 5 years or so...just plain o' good fun.






Smokin' Seventeen (Stephanie Plum, #17)Smokin' Seventeen by Janet Evanovich

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Stephanie find herself in yet another crazy adventure and yes someone is trying to kill her again. The Plum books are a good read, but for my input she needs to make a bit more progress in her life in the next one. They are starting to feel like they are the same book over and over.





Alice's Tea Cup: Delectable Recipes for Scones, Cakes, Sandwiches, and More from New York's Most Whimsical Tea SpotAlice's Tea Cup: Delectable Recipes for Scones, Cakes, Sandwiches, and More from New York's Most Whimsical Tea Spot by Haley Fox

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Love this book! I've made several of the recipes and they have all been great. Very colorful photos and easy to follow directions. Makes me want to visit Alice's Tea Cup in NYC.








Web of Evil (Ali Reynolds, #2)Web of Evil by J.A. Jance

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is the second book in the Alison Reynolds series. Well done mystery!




Wednesday, August 17, 2011


Holy Macaroni...
 
Holy macaroni on a stick!  "Is there a hidden camera in my office."  Question I asked my co-worker about 10:30am this morning and it hasn't gotten much better.
 
There has been a parade of people in my office today. Everything from a prostitute having a breakdown in my office, telling me "prostitution kills your soul".  I've never been one, but I can imagine, yes, yes it would.  To the man who wanted a history lesson on higher education and who the Board of Regents is-and would not let the topic drop.  To the blond, who just doesn't know where she was, at least that is how it appeared.  To the mother of an adult daughter who just had brain surgery and has to basically relearn everything, and she needs a new career that will allow her time to take care of said daughter.  To, the point where I may loose my mind by the end of the day. 
 
Now I'm off to orientation.  Today, I would have preferred back to back orientations!

Friday, August 12, 2011

Updates from the Kitchen...

Rainbow Cupcakes!

These are easy, but add a bit of fun to any cupcake eating experience.

How To:
Mix your cake batter per box directions.
Separate the batter into a few different bowls, three or four.
Add food coloring to the batter, mix well.

Add a bit of each colored batter to the cupcake paper, careful not to stir, but to allow each color to stand on its own.

Bake as directed on the box.

Ice and decorate per your choice.


The fun happens when you bite into the cupcake.

Happy Friday!

Monday, August 08, 2011

Goodreads Update...



You Slay Me (Aisling Grey: Guardian Series, #1)You Slay Me by Katie MacAlister

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Dragon in human form--silly, fun story. Katie MacAlister doing her thing.







Undead and Uneasy : Queen Betsy, Vol. 6 (The Undead, Vol. 6 of The Undead series)Undead and Uneasy : Queen Betsy, Vol. 6 by MaryJanice Davidson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Undead series continues to be funny.




Fire Me Up (Aisling Grey, Guardian, Book 2)Fire Me Up by Katie MacAlister

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


2nd book in the series, little content, but more info on the characters.






Spell Bound (Women of the Otherworld, #12)Spell Bound by Kelley Armstrong

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Excellent. Kelley Armstrong brings a wonderful web of interest in her supernatural series. Didn't want the book to end and will have to wait for the next installment.






Edge of Evil (Ali Reynolds, #1)Edge of Evil by J.A. Jance

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Good mystery with a solid lead female character.





Friday, August 05, 2011

Long Time No Blog...
 
This has been a difficult week and honestly I didn't feel like doing a blog entry or really talking to anyone. 
 
Tuesday I facilitated a meeting that going in I expected I would be the most hated person at the end of the day.  Good to know my crystal ball is working...I'm still the most hated person in the office this morning.  Funny how trying to make recommendations of "fair and equitable", terms this office doesn't understand, created such chaos.  What makes me a bit more sad is that a few people in the office get it.  They have been the ones to come to me and apologize.  Actually apologize for the unprofessional behavior of other "teammates". One poor lady was in tears on my behalf.  No reason for them to loose sleep over it, I've lost enough this week for them.  (Thank the Fates for Lite Mocha Fraps, Iced Tea, Chai, and all other caffeinated beverages.) My problem is I care--but I'm working on that. *sigh*
 
Good news is, I gave away all my responsibilities.  I'm not beating my head against a brick wall if the wall is never going to give- even a little.  So, I will do my basic role in my job, pretend to be busy during down times, and keep my head down and mouth shut.  This will allow me to make an ok wage with little responsibility and I will go on a cruise in October.  Is it October yet?
 
I will be headed to the Dublin Irish Fest this weekend, which makes me happy.  I'm worth it and need the mental health break.
 
I hope your weekend is grand!

Friday, July 22, 2011

Week In Review...
 
Let's see, it's been a crazy busy week so far.  I will not go into the mundane stuff, only things that may be considered semi-interesting.
 
Semi-interesting #1:
 
I had my plates run by the CPD this week.  I was stopped at a red light down town and looked out my car window to see a really nice view of the city.  I decided I needed to snap a quick photo.  The fastest camera I could get to was my the phone camera in my pocket. I powered the window down, got a whooosh of heat and humidity in my face, but push on and snapped a picture. 
 
As I turn back to the inside of the car to glance to see the light is still red, I also notice in my rearview mirror a CPD car.  Lovely!  I slowly put the phone down, kept a watch on the two gentlemen in the cruiser in my mirror and notice they are obviously running my plates.  Good to know there are no outstanding warrants for me, they followed for another block, then speed across three lanes of traffic to go off and do real police work.  Possible ticket situation averted.  I don't really think you can get a ticket for taking a photo out the window of a stopped car, but at this point, I don't know, they keep changing the laws on me.

My camera phone sucks and it's not even a good picture.  If you have a smart phone, how do you feel about the camera on it. I up for a new one as some point this year and am looking into one with a better camera.

 
 
Semi-interesting #2:
 
I applied for a new job.  It could be an fun career move for me.  Still in my same field, but at a different institution of higher education, but working in many ways with the students at my current institution. 
 
Getting to the interview was interesting enough.  How does one avoid sweat in Ohio in July?  If you know, please clue me in.  I am a lady-I know you are asking, really are you, but yes anatomically I am.  I do have the option of a skirt and a short sleeve suit jacket-thank goodness.  Men, I am sorry, you don't have the option to create somewhat cooler interview clothing.  My advice is only look for a new job in the cooler months, but then you may have to walk to an interview in a blizzard, which I did once and I don't recommend it. 
 
I did arrive early enough for the interview to slip into the ladies room and basically take a mini public restroom paper towel bath.  I cooled down as much as possible and headed to the third floor for my interview.  I had to wait about 15 minutes for the committee to arrive in a secret location, so I used the brochure next to me on the stand as a make shift fan.  I was calm, cool, and collected when the admin walked me down a flight of stairs to this secret location.  I walked into the room confident and a smile on my face.  The smile froze just a bit when I scanned the room and it never fully reach my eyes, at least I don't think.
 
I somewhat lost the ability to think clear for a moment.  Why you ask, panic, nerves, stubbed my toe.  No, good questions, but no.  I was taken aback by the one of the faces in the room.  It was a conference room with 6 individuals lined around the table and an empty chair for me at the head of the table.  They were prepared, they too knew the world revolves around me.  Back to the face.  It is a nice face, one I see on a Monday-Friday basis.  Oh yes ladies and gents, my boss was sitting in the room, ready to interview me for a job somewhere else.
 
What is one to do in this situation?  I had no freaking idea.  I had run interview questions in my head for about a week.  I had come up with brilliant ideas and answers.  I had not prepared for this.  I have never had this happen before.  I never spoken to anyone that has had this happen before.  I did what I could at the time.  I just kept going.  I kept walking into the room, introduced myself to the group, took my seat at the head of the table, and settled in to answer their questions.  I sent a small head nod to my boss in acknowledgment of her and move on.
 
I haven't actually spoken to her since, which is very interesting since her office is directly behind mine.  I don't fear for my current job. I do my job, I do it well most days.  It's just going to be a bit awkward until this entire job process is over, which could take a few weeks.
 
 
Semi-interesting #3:
 
I watched Kill the Irishman this week.  Very good mob movie.  I give it a solid B.  If you like mob movies, you will like this movie.  I also like that it is "based" on a true story.
 
Ok, so this was maybe not as interesting, but a true event from this week in my life.
 
Enjoy your weekend kids and drink lots of liquids...water is best but beer will do.


Thursday, July 21, 2011

Volunteer Opportunity...
 
If you are interested in donating your time to help build a home for the TV show Extreme Makeover Home Addition, you are in luck. You can volunteer at this link, http://www.pndbuildersltd.com/.
 
I don't know details, only that this company was chosen to build the house and you can help them.  Volunteer soon if you are interested, the construction will begin August 4.
 
 

Friday, July 15, 2011

Indians Game...

I recently went to an Indians game.  Has a blast with a great friend.  The Indians lost the game, but did go into the 10th and made it a fun game to watch.




GRADY!!!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Love for The Chicken...
 
I love this blog that posts cartoons drawn on post it notes.  It cracks me up.  The blog is www.savagechickens.com.  If you haven't had a chance to check it out, do so.  The post from yesterday, July 13 is so where my job is right now.  I laugh because other wise I would have to think about it too much and well I need a paycheck.

Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday!

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

More Books...


Undead and Unpopular (Undead, #5)Undead and Unpopular by MaryJanice Davidson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The Vampire Queen is still crass, still funny...moving on to the next one in the series.





Stolen (Women of the Otherworld, #2)Stolen by Kelley Armstrong

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Excellent supernatural book! Werewolves, Vamps, Witches.  Solid plot. The book keeps the story moving, which is great.




BossypantsBossypants by Tina Fey

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Excellent! The book covers parts of Fey's life, including SNL and 30 Rock.



Tina Fey is funny and so is her book. I actually listened to the audio book. I highly recommend this. I think Fey reading the book herself gives a a bit more than just reading the pages on your own.

Friday, July 08, 2011

More Kitchen Updates...

Ginger Molasses Cookies
-recipe adapted from Alice's Tea Cup

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream
1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup sugar


Add
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses
Mix until smooth


Add
2 1/4 cup of flour
2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Mix until smooth,workable dough


Use a spoon to create a small ball of dough, place dough on baking sheet.  Use the back of the spoon to pat down the top just a bit.  Sprinkle with sugar.

Bake 10-12 minutes, until lightly browned and lightly cracking on top a bit.

Makes about two dozen cookies.


Super yummy--- 4 Stars!

Happy Friday Kids!

Thursday, July 07, 2011

Timing...
 
As you know I went to Vegas a couple of weeks ago. What you say, you would like more pictures, too bad you are going to get them anyway.
 
The New York, New York Hotel/Casino...










I've got to make it to New York and soon! It's on my list, but keeps getting moved.

Anyway, more back to this morning...
 
What you don't know is that I still haven't completely unpacked from Vegas.  Sad, but true.  When I got back, life went into fast forward, again, and I just never got to it.
 
This morning at 7:30am, I decided to start the unpacking/cleaning of my room.  What, why do I have such poor timing.  Why do I decide it's a good time to do this at 7:30am when I really needed to leave my house by 7:45am to get to work on time.  So, guess what, yep, 10 minutes late for work and of course my Director is standing in the hallway when I walk in to see me coming in late.  Only just a week from my review.  Oh well, life will go on. I do my job and I'll either stay late or not take a lunch, but she will of course not see that.  I can only hope that I feel like cleaning this afternoon when I get off work and actually make some headway in my room during a more appropriate time.

Wednesday, July 06, 2011


Kitchen Updates...
 
I seem to find myself cooking or really baking quite a bit lately.  I find it is a helpful way to get rid of some stress.  My new trick was borrowed from a friend.  Make the lovely treats then take them to work and get rid of them. I get one to try and the others are consumed, just not by me.
 
Recently I made White Chocolate Cranberry Scones.  I tweaked the recipe from the book Alice's Tea Cup by Haley Fox and Lauren Fox.
 
You will need...

3 cups flour
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt--little less if using salted butter
1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups skim milk
2/3 cup white chocolate chips
2/3 cup dried cranberries
 
Mix, don't beat, ingredients in order listed above.  Then lighly flour a space to cut dough. I try to make a log about a couple of inchs wide and then cut triangles down the log.  Don't make them too small, they don't fluff as much-and in this case fluff is good.  You want about an 1 1/2 inches thick before your bake and they will expand.  (I tried mini ones and they were just not as good, better to make real size and then cut in half, if you want to serve more people.)
 
Once cut and on baking pan--brush top with milk and sprinkle sugar
1/4 cup skim milk for brushing
1/4 cup sugar for top sprinkle
 
Bake at 425 degree for about 12-15 minutes, until light/golden brown on top.  Makes 10-12 scones.


Grab a cuppa tea and enjoy!

Tuesday, July 05, 2011

Goodreads Update...

If you are not familiar with Goodreads.com, it is helpful website to keep track of new books coming out, what you have already read, and what your friends are reading that you might enjoy.  I will try to put some of my reviews on the blog in case you are looking for new books.  My tastes vary, so you may not enjoy any of the books. Below are a few recent ones.

I've completed 3 books of the 8 needed for my summer reading program goal.

Are you reading any good books, let me know, I'll look into it.


Undead and Unreturnable (Undead #4)Undead and Unreturnable by MaryJanice Davidson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Funny, crass, entertaining- light read.








Crouching Vampire, Hidden Fang by Katie MacAlister
Crouching Vampire, Hidden Fang (Dark Ones Series #7)My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Like most Katie MacAlister books an easy silly read. Good for summer reading in the shade.




In the Company of VampiresIn the Company of Vampires by Katie MacAlister

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Light supernatural read.





Naked Heat (Nikki Heat #2)Naked Heat by Richard Castle

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Good mystery, fun humor.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Vegas 2011...

Hydrangeas-lovely! 



Shots for breakfast Lou?  Oh well, it is Vegas. 


The MGM Lion



The lions inside MGM


 

Mirage-home of the Beatles show-awesome!!!!!! However, NO photos allowed even from the start, so none to share from the show.  Like the Beatles, go see this show when you are in Vegas, well worth the money.

 

Champagne and dessert, yum!


Wynn Waterfall-very relaxing

I hope your morning is going better than mine.  I'm headed to the chiropractor later this morning. I can hardly move my neck.  Yesterday while reaching for something over my head there was a small "pop" in my neck.  I stretched all day yesterday trying to get the nerve to un-pinch, but no luck.  So, off to spend some co-pay money, at least I have insurance.  I just need to be able to move my neck, remove the tingle from my left hand, get rid of this headache, oh and sleep through the night.  2 Tylenol PM's didn't do anything last night-grrrr!  Funny how a tiny little move can create such havoc.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Vegas, Again...

I know, but it's Vegas, loads to see.

 Bellagio Garden, Painting made from flowers--how fun!

 There were a few open bars...of course I took advantage and drank up.  An extra dirty martini--love those olives.

 Frank Caliendo.  I have a short video, but can't seem to get it to post here.

 Loved the fans by the pool at the hotel. I want a few of these in my back yard, along with the palm trees and the pool. hehehheee

 Fun Fountain

 Hard Rock...the one on the strip.

 The Jersey Boys....Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.  Sadly, I knew almost every song.

 Lou enjoyed the fountain at Caesars.


Me, enjoying the open bar again, with a bit o' Champagane.