4. To be at the celebration held upon the Great Pyramids' completion. Do you think the Pharoahs would have gone all out? Do you think it was written about but the scrolls lost? I wonder what that party would have been like.
5. I think it would have been fascinating to attend a Native American gathering of nations well before Columbus discovered the western hemisphere. All the dancing, music, jewelry, horses, paintings, spears and contests that would be there. Perhaps a young girl from one tribe becoming smitten with a young fellow from another and wondering if she'll ever see him again. Then coming back home to one's tribe and recounting all that had happened would have been pretty neat in my eyes.
Showing posts with label 101/1001. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 101/1001. Show all posts
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Moments in Time
I want to write about 101 moments in time that I wish I could have experienced. They are in no particular order.
1. Standing on the sidelines while the first steam engine train was being prepped to make its maiden voyage across the country to the west coast. Hearing the engine start and seeing the giant plume of smoke burp from the vehicle's crown. Thoughts racing of how this will change the country, people's lives, the economy, life as it was known. Watching the wheels budge ever so slowly as it takes baby steps towards its ultimate purpose of reaching the Pacific Ocean. Catching out of the corner of your eye to look of bewilderment on a wagon driver's face as he thinks about how this mighty machine will impact his livelihood. Feeling the cheers, excitement, and exhuberance secrete from the audience as it pulls away from the depot. I wish I could have been there.
2. To be an unnoticed servant in the palace of Queen Elizabeth I of England, perhaps polishing silverware or laundrying day after day, and only see Her Majesty once. However, that one episode, leaving such an imprint of being privelidged enough to among the company of angels, was the shining jewel in your memory that never dulled as age stole your youthfulness and narled your hands so you could no longer work. To exerpience such a level of delight would be humbling.
3. To be the first sailor to spot the Spanish Armada on the southern horizon on her way to tackle the pescky English. Shouting below and alerting one's superior that the enemy has been idenified. Like a game of "Telephone," a lower class mate would frantically knock on the captain's personal cabin's door and stutter the news that the Spanish have been seen, not knowing the number of ships, only relaying what one was told. Cowering at the boom of the leader's voice as orders are cried out. The spotter in the crow's nest watching his mates scatter around like ants over a juicy pie crumb would know that he was the flame that sparked the first shot in the battle. Being a part of history that nobody would ever remember.
1. Standing on the sidelines while the first steam engine train was being prepped to make its maiden voyage across the country to the west coast. Hearing the engine start and seeing the giant plume of smoke burp from the vehicle's crown. Thoughts racing of how this will change the country, people's lives, the economy, life as it was known. Watching the wheels budge ever so slowly as it takes baby steps towards its ultimate purpose of reaching the Pacific Ocean. Catching out of the corner of your eye to look of bewilderment on a wagon driver's face as he thinks about how this mighty machine will impact his livelihood. Feeling the cheers, excitement, and exhuberance secrete from the audience as it pulls away from the depot. I wish I could have been there.
2. To be an unnoticed servant in the palace of Queen Elizabeth I of England, perhaps polishing silverware or laundrying day after day, and only see Her Majesty once. However, that one episode, leaving such an imprint of being privelidged enough to among the company of angels, was the shining jewel in your memory that never dulled as age stole your youthfulness and narled your hands so you could no longer work. To exerpience such a level of delight would be humbling.
3. To be the first sailor to spot the Spanish Armada on the southern horizon on her way to tackle the pescky English. Shouting below and alerting one's superior that the enemy has been idenified. Like a game of "Telephone," a lower class mate would frantically knock on the captain's personal cabin's door and stutter the news that the Spanish have been seen, not knowing the number of ships, only relaying what one was told. Cowering at the boom of the leader's voice as orders are cried out. The spotter in the crow's nest watching his mates scatter around like ants over a juicy pie crumb would know that he was the flame that sparked the first shot in the battle. Being a part of history that nobody would ever remember.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Cantaloupe Ice Cream with Pecans
September 4th was my one year anniversary of starting my 101/1001 list. I was able to accomplish or further contribute to the following.
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. (12/12)
*I went to a Nutty Brown Cafe benefit concert on th 10th, and bought food and basic living essentials to be donated to the Bastrop Fire victims.
2. Visit DC for at least four days.
*Technically it was 4 days, but we didn't get to do 4 days of sight-seeing. I don't think we'll get a chance to go back any time soon, so I'm marking this one complete since in the beginning I wasn't too specific on what I had to do in order to do the task.
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. (5/10)
*We had just returned from DC, and before heading home, I wanted some Amy's Ice Cream. I had cantaloupe ice cream with chopped pecans, and it was amazing! I absolutely loved it!
37. Visit an art, history, and science museum.
*While in DC, we went to the National Museum of American History.
41. Lower my BMI to 26.8.
*My current BMI is 30.4. I need to get under 30.0 to no longer be considered obese. I'll be there before the end of October! At my wedding was at 38.0.
54. Go to a zoo in a different city.
*On 9/12/11 we went to the National Zoo in DC. I made a little video of one of the pandas for my mom. :)
I have now completed 28 tasks and 10 are in progress.
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. (12/12)
*I went to a Nutty Brown Cafe benefit concert on th 10th, and bought food and basic living essentials to be donated to the Bastrop Fire victims.
2. Visit DC for at least four days.
*Technically it was 4 days, but we didn't get to do 4 days of sight-seeing. I don't think we'll get a chance to go back any time soon, so I'm marking this one complete since in the beginning I wasn't too specific on what I had to do in order to do the task.
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. (5/10)
*We had just returned from DC, and before heading home, I wanted some Amy's Ice Cream. I had cantaloupe ice cream with chopped pecans, and it was amazing! I absolutely loved it!
37. Visit an art, history, and science museum.
*While in DC, we went to the National Museum of American History.
41. Lower my BMI to 26.8.
*My current BMI is 30.4. I need to get under 30.0 to no longer be considered obese. I'll be there before the end of October! At my wedding was at 38.0.
54. Go to a zoo in a different city.
*On 9/12/11 we went to the National Zoo in DC. I made a little video of one of the pandas for my mom. :)
I have now completed 28 tasks and 10 are in progress.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Check, Check, and Check!
I can mark off more of my 101 tasks! Hurray!
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. I'm three months behind, ugh. 9 of 12 months completed.
2. Visit DC for at least four days. This is being set into motion. We'll be in DC Sept 12-15th, although the 15th hardly counts for a day. We'll have breakfast at the hotel then head to the airport. Even though this trip was really impromptu, I'm so glad we're going.
16. Help with a Girl Scout troop. On July 31st I met with a Girl Scout Volunteer Organizer and registered as an adult volunteer. I hope to be working with a troop starting this fall!
17. Influence someone to make a 101/1001 list. I suggested doing a 101/1001 list to my personal trainer Paul because he'd recently gotten out of a relationship and had more time to focus on work and such. Well, he went a little overboard with work and doing really long days. He's really liking his list and has already completed some tasks. Awesome!
21. Use my 5 passes to work out with a trainer at the gym. Turns out I only had 3 sessions that came with my membership. I used those, and bought an 11-pack, which I have also gone though. Big fat check mark for this one!
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. I think I'm up to four of 10 now. The last one I tried was white chocolate with reese peanut butter cups--so delicious.
31. Go to a wine tasting event. This past week my mom took us to a vineyard south of Salem, Oregon, and I got to try 6 samples of wine. I really liked their vintage pinot noir. Then she took us (Marshall was there too) to a winery in Salem. I tasted another 4 wine samples (was that 10 oz total?!), and absolutely loved their tropical sunset wine. It's like fruit cocktail syrup with wine, yummy.
50. Have Thanksgiving at my parents' house. Marshall and I recently went to Oregon to visit my parents, sisters and nephew for a few days. Thanksgiving is my mom's favorite holiday to cook, and the day we arrived we had a Thanksgiving dinner that night. Check!
88. Visit 5 Austinite restaurants. Not too long ago my boss Carrie took my coworker Emily and I out to lunch at Matt's El Rancho, a Mexican restaurant. I'm not sure if they have more than 1 location in town, but it is an Austin restaurant. My fifth one is actually happening tomorrow morning. I'm meeting a new friend at the Magnolia Cafe, and Carrie has approved it as an Austin "must go" place. :)
101. Take a glass blowing class. Today was the glass blowing class I organized through a meetup.com group that I joined. 10 ladies participated, and everyone had a blast. I get to pick up my purple and pink ornament on Monday after work. I'll post pictures this week. Check!
1. Donate $25 worth of non-perishable food items to a food pantry once a month for a year. I'm three months behind, ugh. 9 of 12 months completed.
2. Visit DC for at least four days. This is being set into motion. We'll be in DC Sept 12-15th, although the 15th hardly counts for a day. We'll have breakfast at the hotel then head to the airport. Even though this trip was really impromptu, I'm so glad we're going.
16. Help with a Girl Scout troop. On July 31st I met with a Girl Scout Volunteer Organizer and registered as an adult volunteer. I hope to be working with a troop starting this fall!
17. Influence someone to make a 101/1001 list. I suggested doing a 101/1001 list to my personal trainer Paul because he'd recently gotten out of a relationship and had more time to focus on work and such. Well, he went a little overboard with work and doing really long days. He's really liking his list and has already completed some tasks. Awesome!
21. Use my 5 passes to work out with a trainer at the gym. Turns out I only had 3 sessions that came with my membership. I used those, and bought an 11-pack, which I have also gone though. Big fat check mark for this one!
24. Try 10 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's. I think I'm up to four of 10 now. The last one I tried was white chocolate with reese peanut butter cups--so delicious.
31. Go to a wine tasting event. This past week my mom took us to a vineyard south of Salem, Oregon, and I got to try 6 samples of wine. I really liked their vintage pinot noir. Then she took us (Marshall was there too) to a winery in Salem. I tasted another 4 wine samples (was that 10 oz total?!), and absolutely loved their tropical sunset wine. It's like fruit cocktail syrup with wine, yummy.
50. Have Thanksgiving at my parents' house. Marshall and I recently went to Oregon to visit my parents, sisters and nephew for a few days. Thanksgiving is my mom's favorite holiday to cook, and the day we arrived we had a Thanksgiving dinner that night. Check!
88. Visit 5 Austinite restaurants. Not too long ago my boss Carrie took my coworker Emily and I out to lunch at Matt's El Rancho, a Mexican restaurant. I'm not sure if they have more than 1 location in town, but it is an Austin restaurant. My fifth one is actually happening tomorrow morning. I'm meeting a new friend at the Magnolia Cafe, and Carrie has approved it as an Austin "must go" place. :)
101. Take a glass blowing class. Today was the glass blowing class I organized through a meetup.com group that I joined. 10 ladies participated, and everyone had a blast. I get to pick up my purple and pink ornament on Monday after work. I'll post pictures this week. Check!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
Bike Ride!
I bought a bike at the end of February, but hadn't found the time to remove the tags until this past Saturday. Marshall and I went for a bike ride, which we have never been able to do before! I need a more comfortable seat (here I come Amazon...), and then I'm sure I'll be out on the trail more often. Owning a bike was one of the tasks on my 101/1001 list. Here are some other updates: 1. I've donated $25 worth of non-perishable food items to our local food bank for 8 straight months now. September will make it 12. 24. I've now tried 3 different flavors of ice cream at Amy's Ice Cream. My goal is ten. My latest was chocolate cheesecake, which was quite delicious! 42. So far I've lowered my BMI by over four points in 2011! 64. I've made 49 notes for my husband to find. I need to kick it into gear if I am going to make it to 1001! Others that are coming up very soon: 49. Go horseback riding (which is my reward when I lose 10% of my starting body weight with Weight Watchers). 66. Read the Freakonomics books (rented from the library 4/17/11).
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Update on 101/1001
Here's how what I've been accomplishing regarding my 101/1001 list.
1. Have donated food to the local food bank for 6 months in a row!
20. I did a baby Zumba class called Cardio Dance Party for 6 weeks straight. I was so close to making it 8 weeks to reach my goal. I stopped because I tried out the 1 hour class right before it called Camp24, which is cardio and strength training. I'm burning calories and toning my muscles, which is better for my body than just cardio. The Cardio Dance Party class has gotten really popular; there seems to be little room in there now. I did really well while I was doing it. It was a challenage; it kicked my butt and I liked it. I will consider this task accomplished when I can do both a Camp24 and Cardio Dance Party class back to back on Monday nights. Sound like a good compromise?
22. Holy smokes! I couldn't believe it. I did a mile on the eliptical Sunday morning at the gym in 6:55! My goal was to reach 7:30, this was really impressive to me. Now let me see myself do it on the treadmill. :)
40. I found a delicious recipe called Antipasti Chicken that involves artichokes. I've also included them on pizza and in quiche. Marshall loves them all!
42. I've lowered my BMI by 1.9 points since December 17th! I've accomplished this by eatting better, exercising and doing Weight Watchers. By mid-April I hope to have it down a total of 4.3 points.
50. I'm planning a trip for my husband, sister, nephew and myself (Matt may or may not be able to make it) to go to my parents' house in Salem, Oregon in mid-August. Going in November and around the holidays would just be insane financially and with being able to leave work. While we are at our parents' house, Mom is going to cook a Thanksgiving meal (her favorite to do). When this happens, I'm marking this task as complete!
97. I changed this one to "Participate in a 5K." I'm thinking of doing the Couch to 5K challenage and be ready for Austin's Bun Run on May 1st.
1. Have donated food to the local food bank for 6 months in a row!
20. I did a baby Zumba class called Cardio Dance Party for 6 weeks straight. I was so close to making it 8 weeks to reach my goal. I stopped because I tried out the 1 hour class right before it called Camp24, which is cardio and strength training. I'm burning calories and toning my muscles, which is better for my body than just cardio. The Cardio Dance Party class has gotten really popular; there seems to be little room in there now. I did really well while I was doing it. It was a challenage; it kicked my butt and I liked it. I will consider this task accomplished when I can do both a Camp24 and Cardio Dance Party class back to back on Monday nights. Sound like a good compromise?
22. Holy smokes! I couldn't believe it. I did a mile on the eliptical Sunday morning at the gym in 6:55! My goal was to reach 7:30, this was really impressive to me. Now let me see myself do it on the treadmill. :)
40. I found a delicious recipe called Antipasti Chicken that involves artichokes. I've also included them on pizza and in quiche. Marshall loves them all!
42. I've lowered my BMI by 1.9 points since December 17th! I've accomplished this by eatting better, exercising and doing Weight Watchers. By mid-April I hope to have it down a total of 4.3 points.
50. I'm planning a trip for my husband, sister, nephew and myself (Matt may or may not be able to make it) to go to my parents' house in Salem, Oregon in mid-August. Going in November and around the holidays would just be insane financially and with being able to leave work. While we are at our parents' house, Mom is going to cook a Thanksgiving meal (her favorite to do). When this happens, I'm marking this task as complete!
97. I changed this one to "Participate in a 5K." I'm thinking of doing the Couch to 5K challenage and be ready for Austin's Bun Run on May 1st.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Vacation Ideas
We have some vacation ideas that we'd like to see through before we start expanding our family in 2013. Marshall's school schedule gives us limited windows so he doesn't have to miss classes. Here is what's on the table:
2011
*Trip in mid-August to Salem, Oregon to see my parents, youngest sister, Sherri and our nephew Kyan. My brother Matt will make it if he can.
*Trip to the Int'l Balloon Festival in New Mexico during the first weekend in October. We'd travel mostly by train.
2012
*Trip to Washington, DC for at least 4 days.
*Trip to Marshall's family cabin in NW Wyoming.
2013
*Trip for youngest sister Rachael's graduation party.
*Trip for youngest brother Eric's graduation party.
*Trip to northern Europe in June/July to celebrate Marshall's college graduation.
20??
*Trip to North Dakota.
*Alaskan Cruise out of Seattle.
We know a Europe trip would be fairly expensive, and as much as we'd like to go while it would be just the two of us, I'm wondering if it is a good idea to spend all that money as we TTC. I really want to see Denmark; Marshall wants Germany; and we'd like to see Stockholm too.
2013 sounds so far away to be planning trips, but considering that we have two graduations to fly/drive to within a few weeks of each other that year, we really do need to start thinking of some options. We'd like to take a "hurray, Marshall's finally out of school" trip before he would start a full time job (if that's the path he takes). If his business takes off and is earning enough income, well, maybe we wouldn't have to take it right then. *shrug This is what happens when you're a planner by nature.
2011
*Trip in mid-August to Salem, Oregon to see my parents, youngest sister, Sherri and our nephew Kyan. My brother Matt will make it if he can.
*Trip to the Int'l Balloon Festival in New Mexico during the first weekend in October. We'd travel mostly by train.
2012
*Trip to Washington, DC for at least 4 days.
*Trip to Marshall's family cabin in NW Wyoming.
2013
*Trip for youngest sister Rachael's graduation party.
*Trip for youngest brother Eric's graduation party.
*Trip to northern Europe in June/July to celebrate Marshall's college graduation.
20??
*Trip to North Dakota.
*Alaskan Cruise out of Seattle.
We know a Europe trip would be fairly expensive, and as much as we'd like to go while it would be just the two of us, I'm wondering if it is a good idea to spend all that money as we TTC. I really want to see Denmark; Marshall wants Germany; and we'd like to see Stockholm too.
2013 sounds so far away to be planning trips, but considering that we have two graduations to fly/drive to within a few weeks of each other that year, we really do need to start thinking of some options. We'd like to take a "hurray, Marshall's finally out of school" trip before he would start a full time job (if that's the path he takes). If his business takes off and is earning enough income, well, maybe we wouldn't have to take it right then. *shrug This is what happens when you're a planner by nature.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
#60 Expanding My Vocabulary
Number 60 on my 101/1001 list is to expand my vocabulary by 100 words. I have recruited the help of Savethewords.org, which is a website dedicated to bringing English words that are on the brink of extinction back into everyday vernacular. You "adopt" a word and promise to use it as often as possible, essentially sharing it with others.
My first word is "prandicle," which I had never heard in my life. It means "small meal." For example: My morning prandicle consisted of a banana and half a bagel.
How would you use prandicle in a sentence? ;)
*update*
I've adopted two new words! I'm adding to my brood. "Icasm" means 'figurative expression,' sort of like a metaphor. Here's a good one for Scrabble--quaeritate--which means 'to ask.'
My first word is "prandicle," which I had never heard in my life. It means "small meal." For example: My morning prandicle consisted of a banana and half a bagel.
How would you use prandicle in a sentence? ;)
*update*
I've adopted two new words! I'm adding to my brood. "Icasm" means 'figurative expression,' sort of like a metaphor. Here's a good one for Scrabble--quaeritate--which means 'to ask.'
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Getting Closer
I've lost 5 pounds in since my doctor's appointment on December 17th! I'm so excited. Also this week, I did a 7:36 mile on the eliptical machine; my goal is 7:30--I'm almost there! I couldn't contain myself and had to post. :D
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Plant a story
This Christmas I was able to combine numbers 11 and 58 on my 101/1001 list. I wanted to write a short story and start a new family tradition. Every year for Christmas, my friend Michelle writes each of her parents an original Christmas story. Thinking how personal such a gift is, I wanted to do it for Marshall. My story was a little over four pages long, which I think is a good start. At the end of the story, the couple open a gift from their parents and inside are a dozen seed packets with a message, "May you both grow this upcoming year in a dozen different ways, making the world a better place, and your dreams bloom." The couple decides to make it a new family tradition to give a plant to someone each year for Christmas. Along with my story, I gave Marshall a rosemary bush. So each year I am going to write Marshall a story for Christmas, and in the very least, I will give him a plant.
PS. Marshall really liked my writing. :D
PS. Marshall really liked my writing. :D
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
A Spa for Your Toes
Ok, so not the most exciting post, but I checked off another task on my 101/1001 list. On Sunday, my neighbor Amy and I went to get a manicure and pedicure (respectively), then we went grocery shopping at Costco. I had never gotten a pedicure before. I liked playing with the jets with my toes. I chose a dark purple for my nail color only because nobody but Marshall will see my toes-zies.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Fish bowl
Earlier this month went to Mongolian Grille at 2nd and San Jacinto with my new co-worker Emily. Our neighbor Carlos recommended it, and it was so delicious. I'm counting it as my 2 of 5 Austinite restaurants for my 101/1001 list. When we entered, I noticed a fish bowl with some business cards in it. Put your business card in the fish bowl and enter to win a free lunch for 10 people. Sounded like a good deal to me, so I contributed.
About 10 days later I get a call letting me know that I won the free lunch! It was for Thursday November 18th at 12:30. I brought 7 co-workers, and everyone had a good time. Apparently the free lunch is put on by a financial company, and we just had to listen to a brief presentation about long term financial planning. The guy talked about permanent life insurance, which sounded very interesting. I'd like for Marshall and I to talk more about it with the representative.
In the end--free lunch and about 90 minutes being away from my computer at work. Good deal!
About 10 days later I get a call letting me know that I won the free lunch! It was for Thursday November 18th at 12:30. I brought 7 co-workers, and everyone had a good time. Apparently the free lunch is put on by a financial company, and we just had to listen to a brief presentation about long term financial planning. The guy talked about permanent life insurance, which sounded very interesting. I'd like for Marshall and I to talk more about it with the representative.
In the end--free lunch and about 90 minutes being away from my computer at work. Good deal!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Signs all over the place!
Today I got to complete 2 tasks from my 101 and make progress in a third. Today we went to the Renaissance Festival! We were on the road by 8am and arrived at 10:50-ish. It was a little chilly, but the weather warmed up in the afternoon. While we were there, we watched the jousting, listened to some awesome Scottish music (it really made me want to dance), had lunch, watched a wench get drenched, saw dozens of visiters dressed up in costumes, got henna tattoos of our zodiac signs, oodled at jewelry, did lots of walking and got a couple's reading with tarot cards.
I had never had a tarot card reading. Apparently Marshall's mom use to do them too, so he had been exposed to them before. We opted for a couple's reading, and our reader even read our palms. He was very accurate when describing our characters based off our hands; I was impressed. For the cards, he divided the deck into three piles. Marshall and I each chose one, and the remaining stack was for our relationship. According to the cards, we are have a solid foundation in our relationship and 2011 will be very good to us. It's amazing how Marshall's cards representing September through December 2011 were emphasizing "nesting," and I ended up getting the Empress card, which can represent a lot of different things related to pregnancy and fertility. A year from now we'll be much closer to being ready to having children, but probably not starting in 2011. I was given a warning to stop internalizing so much. Also, that next summer I am going to have to face a tough decision that although painful, it must be done...very intriguing.
So, while I was at the Ren Fest, I knew I had to get a picture taken of me with someone with a great costume. I met a centaur and swore it was my lucky day! The title of this entry refers to how Marshall and I chose our zodiac signs for tattoos, I get a picture with the symbol of my Sagitarius sign, and it is exactly one month until my birthday. I'm thinking the rest of the year is going to go pretty well!
I had never had a tarot card reading. Apparently Marshall's mom use to do them too, so he had been exposed to them before. We opted for a couple's reading, and our reader even read our palms. He was very accurate when describing our characters based off our hands; I was impressed. For the cards, he divided the deck into three piles. Marshall and I each chose one, and the remaining stack was for our relationship. According to the cards, we are have a solid foundation in our relationship and 2011 will be very good to us. It's amazing how Marshall's cards representing September through December 2011 were emphasizing "nesting," and I ended up getting the Empress card, which can represent a lot of different things related to pregnancy and fertility. A year from now we'll be much closer to being ready to having children, but probably not starting in 2011. I was given a warning to stop internalizing so much. Also, that next summer I am going to have to face a tough decision that although painful, it must be done...very intriguing.
So, while I was at the Ren Fest, I knew I had to get a picture taken of me with someone with a great costume. I met a centaur and swore it was my lucky day! The title of this entry refers to how Marshall and I chose our zodiac signs for tattoos, I get a picture with the symbol of my Sagitarius sign, and it is exactly one month until my birthday. I'm thinking the rest of the year is going to go pretty well!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Awkward Wind Chimes
Saturday night we went to a new restaurant downtown, a recommendation from our neighbors Amy and Carlos, with my new co-worker Emily. We went to Mongolian Grille at San Jacinto and 2nd Street. The food was great. You put all sorts of veggies and meets in a bowl, then pile it on with noodles and sauces. The cooks put it on a large flat wok of sorts, and with giant knives, they move your food around to cook it. It started out with just one cook, then another showed up because a line was starting to form. Emily was beside me, and I made a comment that the sound of the two metla knives on the cooking surface reminded me of an awkward wind chime. She agreed.
Marshall said that he wanted one of those flat woks where the meals were being cooked. "Where would you put it?" I asked. He said, "We'd take out the island," referring to the island in our kitchen. My response was, "Maybe if they have a show called Pimp My House, then we could do it." Marshall being the jokester that he is replied, "Would that be on the Martha Stewart channel?" I laughed.
We were there for 2 hours and left because we noticed that they were closing. It was a nice night out. We came to the conclusion that we should go to downtown more often, even if just to explore. I'm counting the Mongolian Grille as my 2 of 5 Austinite restaurants for my 101/1001 list. Also downtown we saw a little restaurant called Le Cafe Crepe. I think we'll try that one next. :)
Marshall said that he wanted one of those flat woks where the meals were being cooked. "Where would you put it?" I asked. He said, "We'd take out the island," referring to the island in our kitchen. My response was, "Maybe if they have a show called Pimp My House, then we could do it." Marshall being the jokester that he is replied, "Would that be on the Martha Stewart channel?" I laughed.
We were there for 2 hours and left because we noticed that they were closing. It was a nice night out. We came to the conclusion that we should go to downtown more often, even if just to explore. I'm counting the Mongolian Grille as my 2 of 5 Austinite restaurants for my 101/1001 list. Also downtown we saw a little restaurant called Le Cafe Crepe. I think we'll try that one next. :)
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Austin Places
This week we went to Hill's Cafe on South Congress Blvd for dinner. I had seen the place a week or so prior when I donated food at the food bank on the same street. A sign read that it had been in Austin since 1947, and I thought to myself, "Hmm, I bet this would classify as an Austinite restaurant." The sign on the door read something like this, "If you have too high of expectations for where you dine, lower them before entering." Hill's Cafe is just one of those places where you relax, listen to music, and try to figure out who all the people in the pictures on the walls are.
Afterwards we went to Target to get Euro pillows because our new comforter set came with shams for two. Then we went to Amy's Ice Cream for dessert. I tried chocolate macadamia nut ice cream with peanut butter cups. How could that not be delicious?!
Afterwards we went to Target to get Euro pillows because our new comforter set came with shams for two. Then we went to Amy's Ice Cream for dessert. I tried chocolate macadamia nut ice cream with peanut butter cups. How could that not be delicious?!
You Smell Like a Flower
Ban thom nhu hoa is Vietnamese for "you smell like a flower." A guy I work with named Du is expecting his son to be born in about 2 weeks. We talked about names. His daughter's middle name is Nhu, and I asked him what it means. He told me flower. The next day I came to him and asked, "Du, how do you say 'you smell like a flower' in Vietnamese?" I wrote it down on a sticky note and went to find Mr. Ngan, Du's father, who's in his fifties. He's an old skinny guy, but has a good sense of humor. I couldn't stop laughing to myself that I was going to tell him that he smells like a flower, but I finally got it out. I'm sure my accent leaves much to be desired, but he understood, repeated in English, and smiled at me before we both started laughing together. Since it is the only Vietnamese phrase I know so far, it's all I say, and the guys think it is hilarious!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
#1 Two Months in a Row
I fulfilled my #1 task of donating food to a local food bank for October. I brought a couple boxes of cereal and two giant jars of peanut butter. I dropped them off in a large "drop off" crate on the side of the building. I like to give food that is out of the normal. I saw a lot of green bean cans in there when I peeked in. I really want to find a shelter where I can help prepare meals for the homeless, or better yet, bring in some baking.
We're up to 39 notes so far for Marshall. He still enjoys finding them and especially loves the sappy lovey-dovey ones. I need to see if Marshall is going to dress up for Halloween; it's right around the corner. I actually don't have any creative ideas for this year, so I'm going to be a "scholar" and wear my cap and gown from my graduation at UNF.
We're up to 39 notes so far for Marshall. He still enjoys finding them and especially loves the sappy lovey-dovey ones. I need to see if Marshall is going to dress up for Halloween; it's right around the corner. I actually don't have any creative ideas for this year, so I'm going to be a "scholar" and wear my cap and gown from my graduation at UNF.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Update on 101 Tasks
I'm 30 days into my 1001 days to complete 101 tasks of my choosing. On Thursday, September 30th I made pizza dough from scratch. I made it at 10:30pm, but oh did we enjoy our pesto chicken pizza!
Last week I went to Capital City Food Bank and donated my $25 worth of non-perishable food items. I couldn't believe how packed that parking lot was! It always catches me off guard when I'm hit with the realization that even though I live in a great city and have a wonderful job that allows us to live comfortably, there are hundreds of people and families that need assistance just to put food on their table. I really think that this task is going to be one of my most rewarding on a personal level for me.
I've started to write a short story that I'm going to have done by Christmas. I can't say anything more until December 26th. Oh, and I've asked my mom to look for my old clarinet and to send it to me if she finds it. I really hope she does because I'd really like to start playing again.
I've started to write a short story that I'm going to have done by Christmas. I can't say anything more until December 26th. Oh, and I've asked my mom to look for my old clarinet and to send it to me if she finds it. I really hope she does because I'd really like to start playing again.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
3 Tasks in One Weekend
I'm quite excited to announce that I started three tasks this weekend and finished two of them! On Friday night, Marshall and I went to dinner at Texas Land and Cattle, where I had a Cowgirl Cosmo. I had never had a Cosmo martini before, and I don't remember what was put in it to earn its name of Cowgirl Cosmo, but I really enjoyed it. It was either that one or the Berry-Berry Martini.
On Saturday we went to the River Walk in San Antonio, which is one of my tasks. We went because our planned day of being at the horse race track completely flopped. We found our way to the River Walk, and was surprised that it was a bit cooler down there than above (thank goodness). We started walking, and decided to have lunch. We ate at the Iron Cactus (if that isn't Texan enough for you). Marshall had fish tacos, and I a crazy dish of pork enchiladas under a tostada with melted cheese and fried egg on top. It was so filling. We sat and talked for awhile. Honestly, I wasn't too impressed with the River Walk. It's a complete trap to get you to spend money. You can't go to the River Walk and jog with friends or walk your dog like you can do around places in Austin. There are too many people walking around, chatting it up. At least the river didn't have trash in it, but I still couldn't see through it. So, hmmm, walking on crowded sidewalks, trying not to spend money, and looking at a river that isn't all that appealing. Let's just say I'm glad this task is over and out of the way.
On our way back to Austin, we stopped by a furniture store that was have a close out sale. We have a few pieces of furniture on our wish list, so we went in to see if they had any good deals. We ended up buying a king size bed, something we've always wanted, but were probably going to look into next year after we received our tax return. We got it for 57% off the retail price. It's an 8" Dormia bed that doesn't leave body grooves. It comes with a 25 year warranty, so we feel covered. It's firmer than the queen bed we have, so Marshall fell in love with it right away. I'm glad we got it. King beds are so luxurious to me.
Last night I went online to look at bedding for this new addition, and we found this one. Unfortunately it is back ordered until mid-November, but really it works in our favor. All we need right now are sheets and individual blankets. The comforter set will arrive right when the weather starts getting a bit chillier. This morning I went to JCPenney's and bought Ivory sheets for the time being. I think they will go well with the comforter set. I'm looking forward to our first night on our new bed. Oh, for the time being, we've moved our queen bed into one of our spare bedrooms. :)
On Saturday we went to the River Walk in San Antonio, which is one of my tasks. We went because our planned day of being at the horse race track completely flopped. We found our way to the River Walk, and was surprised that it was a bit cooler down there than above (thank goodness). We started walking, and decided to have lunch. We ate at the Iron Cactus (if that isn't Texan enough for you). Marshall had fish tacos, and I a crazy dish of pork enchiladas under a tostada with melted cheese and fried egg on top. It was so filling. We sat and talked for awhile. Honestly, I wasn't too impressed with the River Walk. It's a complete trap to get you to spend money. You can't go to the River Walk and jog with friends or walk your dog like you can do around places in Austin. There are too many people walking around, chatting it up. At least the river didn't have trash in it, but I still couldn't see through it. So, hmmm, walking on crowded sidewalks, trying not to spend money, and looking at a river that isn't all that appealing. Let's just say I'm glad this task is over and out of the way.
On our way back to Austin, we stopped by a furniture store that was have a close out sale. We have a few pieces of furniture on our wish list, so we went in to see if they had any good deals. We ended up buying a king size bed, something we've always wanted, but were probably going to look into next year after we received our tax return. We got it for 57% off the retail price. It's an 8" Dormia bed that doesn't leave body grooves. It comes with a 25 year warranty, so we feel covered. It's firmer than the queen bed we have, so Marshall fell in love with it right away. I'm glad we got it. King beds are so luxurious to me.
Last night I went online to look at bedding for this new addition, and we found this one. Unfortunately it is back ordered until mid-November, but really it works in our favor. All we need right now are sheets and individual blankets. The comforter set will arrive right when the weather starts getting a bit chillier. This morning I went to JCPenney's and bought Ivory sheets for the time being. I think they will go well with the comforter set. I'm looking forward to our first night on our new bed. Oh, for the time being, we've moved our queen bed into one of our spare bedrooms. :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)