Today's Themed Thursday is sponsored by the number twelve. Why twelve, you may ask. Well, I'll tell you! It's 2012, you fools!
I was reading an article online titled "23 things I should be able to do at 23 (but can't)" which made Kelsey and I think to give this whole "list thing" a try.
So, here's my twelve things about 2012:
1. I've grown up. A lot.
I think it could be paying rent, working 40 hours a week this summer, or having to make appointments for things like shots, that really forced me to grow up. For the past seven years, I've felt like a thirteen-year-old. It's as if I was stuck in that stage for a really long time. But, now I have the confidence to problem solve, get sh*t done, and pretend to function as an adult in society.
2. Packing and unpacking is a constant part of my life.
I hate it. But, I do love the fun I have in between packing and unpacking.
3. Meat is gross.
Vegetarianism is awesome and after I'm done traveling(because it is usually insensitive to say no to offered food) I will be going back. I may even try being vegan. But, it probably won't happen because I love cheese.
4. Having a house off-campus rocks.
5. It's okay to say goodbye and move on.
6. People change. You change. I change.
Accept this, accept the change, and keep going.
7. Sometimes it's a good idea to just call Kelsey.
Things happen that only my mind-twin can help me figure out.
8. The best nights usually include a deck, cookies, and/or Harry Potter.
9. If one thing is going to break, three other things will break at the same time.
Cell phone battery, laptop battery, car, backpack, and shoe all at once.
10. Dance parties rock.
11. More time needs to be dedicated to adventure and fun.
12. My blog did pretty well, but I'm switching over to this one Chelle Travels for my study abroad. It's pretty.
Okay, so those are my twelve. I'm sure Kelsey is going to have something to do with cheese or dancing. Or not. I don't know her life. I do know that I need to sleep more.
August 17, 2012
August 2, 2012
I'm awful, I know.
Yea, I have been slacking hard-core. I'm going to go ahead and crown Kelsey as the July Blogging Queen. I also just made up that title. Doesn't make it any less important.
Life is hot. As in humid, gross, must jump into Lake Superior fully clothed, hot.
Recently I sort of shifted positions in the Marketing Department and now am the resident "Get Sh*t Done-er" of the production studio. I love it. So much fun! Except, I don't have a key to the studio. That's a problem, especially since I currently should be in the studio scheduling interviews. Oh well, I'll sit in the school coffee shop and drink tea. That works, too.
Life is hot. As in humid, gross, must jump into Lake Superior fully clothed, hot.
Recently I sort of shifted positions in the Marketing Department and now am the resident "Get Sh*t Done-er" of the production studio. I love it. So much fun! Except, I don't have a key to the studio. That's a problem, especially since I currently should be in the studio scheduling interviews. Oh well, I'll sit in the school coffee shop and drink tea. That works, too.
July 24, 2012
I'm begging you please to come home.
Last night my friend Cecelia visited my giant-green barn of a house. I had to suppress the urge to burst into song. It's just such a great sing-along and I be she's never EVER heard someone sing her name to her! (Sarcasm folks)
Being a girl with a name in a song is not exactly fun. Don't get me wrong, I love my name. I couldn't picture myself with any name besides Michelle. But, when someone you are just introduced to starts attempting to serenade you with your own name, it's a titch obnoxious. Unless you're my mom because Moms get to sing name songs.
Thankfully, the Beatles didn't have as catchy a tune as Simon & Garfunkel.
Being a girl with a name in a song is not exactly fun. Don't get me wrong, I love my name. I couldn't picture myself with any name besides Michelle. But, when someone you are just introduced to starts attempting to serenade you with your own name, it's a titch obnoxious. Unless you're my mom because Moms get to sing name songs.
Thankfully, the Beatles didn't have as catchy a tune as Simon & Garfunkel.
July 21, 2012
Stay away from jazz and liquor.
My mom, aunt, friend, and I just got back from a spectacular performance of Chicago
in which my dear friend, Callie, starred as Roxie! She was absolutely fantastic! What a show!
The only criticism that I had was about the theater. HOLY CRAP WAS IT HOT. An actor friend of mine once told me that acting is 90% sweating. At this show, being an audience member was 100% sweat. I had a floor seat and was practically on top of the woman next to me. Jeesh! I feel like I have a new bestie.
All in all, it has been a wonderful weekend home!
in which my dear friend, Callie, starred as Roxie! She was absolutely fantastic! What a show!
The only criticism that I had was about the theater. HOLY CRAP WAS IT HOT. An actor friend of mine once told me that acting is 90% sweating. At this show, being an audience member was 100% sweat. I had a floor seat and was practically on top of the woman next to me. Jeesh! I feel like I have a new bestie.
All in all, it has been a wonderful weekend home!
July 20, 2012
THEMED FRIDAY
We're horrible. We get it. Sorry.
This weeks shared theme: a fictional account about our fateful meeting. It includes a shared sentence! What is that sentence? Well, read both posts and see if you can find it. Duh.
A story this beautiful needs to be felt, to be seen, to have a smell. Actually, no. We met at speech camp and the smells there are of fear, caffeine, and complete OWNAGE of rooms. Not the greatest smell in the world. Anyway, shall we begin?
The scene opens with a young Michelle checking into the GAC Summer Speech institute. She is a bit apprehensive, but excited at the same time. She is soon to be a Junior in high school and has a dorky haircut. Obviously, she is lost. The wheel of her suitcase is stuck and is making for a very awkward walk through the halls of the dorm. She approaches the dorm that is to be hers for the next week. The door is open and she awkwardly pokes her head in.
Michelle: Hello? Is anyone here?
Voice: Another person who enjoys speech! It's true! They exist!
A girl, approximately 30 days younger than Michelle emerges from one of the two bedrooms into a lounge area. Their eyes lock and thunder claps! This is a sign from Thor the God of Thunder! They shall be friends!
Kelsey: Did you hear that thunder?
Michelle: Yea, pretty sure it means we're destined to be bffers or something.
Kelsey: Totally. We both have that aura of awesome surrounding us. And Thor did use a mighty thunder clap to signal the beginning of our friendship. Let's begin.
Both girls simultaneously start talking about EVERYTHING.
FADE TO BLACK
The curtain rises three days later. The girls are hanging out in their lounge sorting through scripts, making important highlights on paper, and eating cheetos.
Kelsey: Michelle, you know how we are the same person? Well, I do interp and you should be doing P/A.
Michelle: Yes, we are connected at the brain. And, I agree. Why in the world am I going to waste my time at this camp doing prep for a script and category that I won't even compete in during the season?
Kelsey: Valid question. Any way, how do I play a woman who has cancer, her dog died, both of her children are going through identity crisis, her husband only eats cat treats, and she's cross-eyed in both eyes?
Michelle: She's cross-eyed in BOTH eyes? Is that even possible?
Kelsey: Anything is possible.
Michelle: Truth.
Allowing this moment of extreme clarity to sink in, the lights fade to black. The curtain rises on the girls sitting in the caf, dressed in suits, stuffing their faces with food.
Michelle: I love cheese.
Kelsey: Me too.
Michelle: Kelsey, I believe this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
END SCENE. END OF PLAY
And there you have it, folks. A completely made-up, but could also be partly the truth, version of how Kelsey and I met each other. I'm sure her's will be far more creative and will probably involve a yeti or something, but I am quite tired. Driving home for the weekend took its toll.
So be sure to check out Kelsey's blog Ramblings of a Hypothetical Giant and see her version of the tale.
This weeks shared theme: a fictional account about our fateful meeting. It includes a shared sentence! What is that sentence? Well, read both posts and see if you can find it. Duh.
A story this beautiful needs to be felt, to be seen, to have a smell. Actually, no. We met at speech camp and the smells there are of fear, caffeine, and complete OWNAGE of rooms. Not the greatest smell in the world. Anyway, shall we begin?
The scene opens with a young Michelle checking into the GAC Summer Speech institute. She is a bit apprehensive, but excited at the same time. She is soon to be a Junior in high school and has a dorky haircut. Obviously, she is lost. The wheel of her suitcase is stuck and is making for a very awkward walk through the halls of the dorm. She approaches the dorm that is to be hers for the next week. The door is open and she awkwardly pokes her head in.
Michelle: Hello? Is anyone here?
Voice: Another person who enjoys speech! It's true! They exist!
A girl, approximately 30 days younger than Michelle emerges from one of the two bedrooms into a lounge area. Their eyes lock and thunder claps! This is a sign from Thor the God of Thunder! They shall be friends!
Kelsey: Did you hear that thunder?
Michelle: Yea, pretty sure it means we're destined to be bffers or something.
Kelsey: Totally. We both have that aura of awesome surrounding us. And Thor did use a mighty thunder clap to signal the beginning of our friendship. Let's begin.
Both girls simultaneously start talking about EVERYTHING.
The curtain rises three days later. The girls are hanging out in their lounge sorting through scripts, making important highlights on paper, and eating cheetos.
Kelsey: Michelle, you know how we are the same person? Well, I do interp and you should be doing P/A.
Michelle: Yes, we are connected at the brain. And, I agree. Why in the world am I going to waste my time at this camp doing prep for a script and category that I won't even compete in during the season?
Kelsey: Valid question. Any way, how do I play a woman who has cancer, her dog died, both of her children are going through identity crisis, her husband only eats cat treats, and she's cross-eyed in both eyes?
Michelle: She's cross-eyed in BOTH eyes? Is that even possible?
Kelsey: Anything is possible.
Michelle: Truth.
Allowing this moment of extreme clarity to sink in, the lights fade to black. The curtain rises on the girls sitting in the caf, dressed in suits, stuffing their faces with food.
Michelle: I love cheese.
Kelsey: Me too.
Michelle: Kelsey, I believe this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
And there you have it, folks. A completely made-up, but could also be partly the truth, version of how Kelsey and I met each other. I'm sure her's will be far more creative and will probably involve a yeti or something, but I am quite tired. Driving home for the weekend took its toll.
So be sure to check out Kelsey's blog Ramblings of a Hypothetical Giant and see her version of the tale.
The force is weak with this one.
Sorry Kelsey. Themed Thursday slipped my mind due to the One-Man Star Wars Trilogy.
It was the coolest thing I have ever seen one person perform in my entire life. I did a nerd dance before the show, had a ridiculous grin during the show, and cried a little when I had to leave. It was AWESOME.
So, yes. Themed-Thursday will have to be later today. Lo siento.
I SAW A ONE-MAN STAR WARS TRILOGY!
It was the coolest thing I have ever seen one person perform in my entire life. I did a nerd dance before the show, had a ridiculous grin during the show, and cried a little when I had to leave. It was AWESOME.
So, yes. Themed-Thursday will have to be later today. Lo siento.
July 19, 2012
Like, yo. Like, sup?
Have you ever had a fantastic idea? You're just laying in bed after work, trying to get rid of that headache you got from staring at a computer and it hits you.
THE BEST IDEA EVER.
You tell yourself that the idea will stay. So, you simply roll over and continue snoozing.
When you wake up and ready to write down that great idea, it's gone. Simply gone.
That happened to me. It was one of the most frustrating things that has happened to me recently. Grr. And the worst part about it was that this idea was the perfect solution to a problem I'm having. So, now I'm still puzzled as to how I can schedule six different people at the same time AND I am frustrated that I didn't write that idea down.
I'm so impressed with people who can have great, creative ideas and pens so their ideas will live and thrive. Poets do a great job of that.
You tell yourself that the idea will stay. So, you simply roll over and continue snoozing.
When you wake up and ready to write down that great idea, it's gone. Simply gone.
That happened to me. It was one of the most frustrating things that has happened to me recently. Grr. And the worst part about it was that this idea was the perfect solution to a problem I'm having. So, now I'm still puzzled as to how I can schedule six different people at the same time AND I am frustrated that I didn't write that idea down.
I'm so impressed with people who can have great, creative ideas and pens so their ideas will live and thrive. Poets do a great job of that.
July 17, 2012
Baby, you. You got what I need!
I discovered that work can go a lot faster and be way more entertaining if you listen to the Beastie Boys on Pandora. I also found out that dancing in the computer lab is frowned upon, but if you're friends with the IT help desk kids, then you can get a way with a lot.
My musical tastes are incredibly strange and very diverse. I match music with my mood. My Pandora stations were discovered by some co-workers and one was really confused by the thirty-some stations of all varieties. I have Mozart, classic show tunes, The Lumineers, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Christmas (because it helps with the heat, duh) carols, The Ramones, and so much more.
Music is fun.
My musical tastes are incredibly strange and very diverse. I match music with my mood. My Pandora stations were discovered by some co-workers and one was really confused by the thirty-some stations of all varieties. I have Mozart, classic show tunes, The Lumineers, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Christmas (because it helps with the heat, duh) carols, The Ramones, and so much more.
Music is fun.
July 16, 2012
It only makes it worse to live without it.
If you live anywhere that is not Alaska, then you've noticed the wicked heat that is taking over the nation. And my sanity.
Thankfully, I work in a place where there is air conditioning. Except if I have to leave the office, then it is crazy warm. So nasty. When I came home I positioned myself in front of my fan waiting to melt.
When suddenly! My friend Flo sent me a text and we went to the beach. Lake Superior can be onecold freezing lake, but today she was glorious.
Hopefully, the heat will break tomorrow. I've heard it will and I have heard it won't, so fingers crossed and beach towels at the ready.
Thankfully, I work in a place where there is air conditioning. Except if I have to leave the office, then it is crazy warm. So nasty. When I came home I positioned myself in front of my fan waiting to melt.
When suddenly! My friend Flo sent me a text and we went to the beach. Lake Superior can be one
Hopefully, the heat will break tomorrow. I've heard it will and I have heard it won't, so fingers crossed and beach towels at the ready.
July 15, 2012
Thunder only happens when it's raining
I'm back in D-town and the lack of air conditioning is noticeable.
This weekend was a spectacular time full of baseball, laughter, and food. So much food. Yum.
I love the Twins (Minnesota baseball, duh) but sometimes they just break my little heart. Katie told me that she wants a player from every Minnesotan sports team to be a pall bearer at her funeral. That way they can all let her down one last time. Aye-Oh!
At the ballpark today the band Farewell Milwaukee was playing and I really dug their sound. I lost some respect when one of the guys said "Root root root for the Yankees" during the seventh inning stretch. Some people have no sense.
This weekend was a spectacular time full of baseball, laughter, and food. So much food. Yum.
I love the Twins (Minnesota baseball, duh) but sometimes they just break my little heart. Katie told me that she wants a player from every Minnesotan sports team to be a pall bearer at her funeral. That way they can all let her down one last time. Aye-Oh!
At the ballpark today the band Farewell Milwaukee was playing and I really dug their sound. I lost some respect when one of the guys said "Root root root for the Yankees" during the seventh inning stretch. Some people have no sense.
July 14, 2012
Short and Sweet.
This post has no music, dancing, or unicorns. Sorry.
I'm currently sitting in a hotel room wallowing a loss by the Twins and my battery is about to die.
I was kidnapped (not really, I totally gave my consent) by my friend and her family to enjoy a weekend at Target Field! Yahoo! I love baseball. I would love it even more if the Twins won. But, hey, I'm a Minnesotan sports fan, I'm used to disappointment.
I'm currently sitting in a hotel room wallowing a loss by the Twins and my battery is about to die.
I was kidnapped (not really, I totally gave my consent) by my friend and her family to enjoy a weekend at Target Field! Yahoo! I love baseball. I would love it even more if the Twins won. But, hey, I'm a Minnesotan sports fan, I'm used to disappointment.
Mwhahaha Themed Friday
The name of the game: Super Villains.
Sometimes you just have to let your evil flag fly. But, often evil powers are not enough to strike fear into the hearts of many. The Evil League of Evil would not approve and/or accept me if I were to come out in my true super villain identity:
PUNSTERELLA
Dun Dun DUUN
There would be no phrase left un-turned, no synonym flipped, no puntacular celebrations. Word up.
I love puns. They create sparkle in sentence, groans from those without humor (or those who secretly wish they had thought of it), or blank stares from sad, sad little people.
Yes, nothing is worse than a pun-over-doer. Mwhahaha. Beware world!
Sometimes you just have to let your evil flag fly. But, often evil powers are not enough to strike fear into the hearts of many. The Evil League of Evil would not approve and/or accept me if I were to come out in my true super villain identity:
There would be no phrase left un-turned, no synonym flipped, no puntacular celebrations. Word up.
I love puns. They create sparkle in sentence, groans from those without humor (or those who secretly wish they had thought of it), or blank stares from sad, sad little people.
Yes, nothing is worse than a pun-over-doer. Mwhahaha. Beware world!
July 12, 2012
I don't wanna grow up.
I promised a new post to make up for last night's weeny entry, so here it is!
There are a lot of times that I really like being an "adult," for example, living in Duluth, having a car, no curfew (though I never really had one), and having no A/C. Oh wait, that last one is a blatant lie. That part of being a mature adult sucks.
Last night I especially missed being at home with the fam (as Samantha refers to us) after seeing Facebook posts about spending a night out. I really miss those folks.
So, I love, love, LOVE it when I have a fun twitter conversation with Samantha, Facebook chat Mom, or read Dad's new blog posts because it makes me feel as if they're closer. Love you family!
Speaking of Dad's blog posts...this one is especially good CLICK HERE
There are a lot of times that I really like being an "adult," for example, living in Duluth, having a car, no curfew (though I never really had one), and having no A/C. Oh wait, that last one is a blatant lie. That part of being a mature adult sucks.
Last night I especially missed being at home with the fam (as Samantha refers to us) after seeing Facebook posts about spending a night out. I really miss those folks.
So, I love, love, LOVE it when I have a fun twitter conversation with Samantha, Facebook chat Mom, or read Dad's new blog posts because it makes me feel as if they're closer. Love you family!
Speaking of Dad's blog posts...this one is especially good CLICK HERE
July 11, 2012
It's a heatwave!
My room is so warm. Too warm to blog. I'll make it up to you lovelies tomorrow morning when I have air conditioning.
July 10, 2012
Life is around you and in you
Tonight I went to a preview of the musical 'Hair' and was very much enthralled with the characters, the music, the set, dancing, and lighting.
All in all, I'd say it was a great show. There were some technical difficulties in the first act (mostly mic stuff) and by the second act, everything seemed to have cleared up.
I had forgotten that the cast, erhm "tribe" of 'Hair' climbs/dances/parties with the audience and found myself on stage at the end of the show hippie dancing to "Age of Aquarius." Good thing I have hippie dancing experience. There was also nudity. Which, because I was warned, didn't phase me too much.
Seeing this performance made me want to throw on a political tee shirt, a flow-y skirt, and weave flowers in my hair. Then, protest the heck out of something.
Love is the answer, man.
All in all, I'd say it was a great show. There were some technical difficulties in the first act (mostly mic stuff) and by the second act, everything seemed to have cleared up.
I had forgotten that the cast, erhm "tribe" of 'Hair' climbs/dances/parties with the audience and found myself on stage at the end of the show hippie dancing to "Age of Aquarius." Good thing I have hippie dancing experience. There was also nudity. Which, because I was warned, didn't phase me too much.
Seeing this performance made me want to throw on a political tee shirt, a flow-y skirt, and weave flowers in my hair. Then, protest the heck out of something.
Love is the answer, man.
July 9, 2012
We stayed up 'till 10 o'clock!
Sometimes I want to bottle the weather and save it for January. Tonight was one of the most beautiful evenings with fantastic weather.
After a few nights of sticky-hot weather, this evening was a welcome change of pace. When I went out for a jog (yea, I do that now! But, more about that in a different post) it was incredibly beautiful. Supper was also consumed outside and I read on the deck until I couldn't see the pages anymore.
I can hardly believe this is the same place where blizzards and six-foot snow piles happen. Well, I can believe it. Snow is kinda Minnesota's thing.
But, ah. Those summer NNIIIIGGGHHHTTTSSSS!
After a few nights of sticky-hot weather, this evening was a welcome change of pace. When I went out for a jog (yea, I do that now! But, more about that in a different post) it was incredibly beautiful. Supper was also consumed outside and I read on the deck until I couldn't see the pages anymore.
I can hardly believe this is the same place where blizzards and six-foot snow piles happen. Well, I can believe it. Snow is kinda Minnesota's thing.
But, ah. Those summer NNIIIIGGGHHHTTTSSSS!
July 8, 2012
Some just clap their hands, or paws...
It's that time of year.
MOSQUITO SEASON
I hate those pests. My feet are so itchy because of them. Yet, scratching just makes it worse. ARRGHH ¡Qué frustrante!
Even though I am vigilantly guarding myself from the torture that is a mosquito bite between the toes (oh, it is painful!) I can't bring myself to stoop to the neighborhood bro-level.
The other night my roommates, friends, and I were sitting on the deck, enjoying the night, and in the background there was a faint buzzing noise. We deduced (and saw) that the bros have a large bug-zapper on their front porch. Their night was spent drinking a few cold ones and cheering when a particularly juice bug found its destiny.
I don't know why, but I was so upset! These bugs are annoying, yes, but a bug-zapper is tricking and luring them into death. It's a literal light at the end of the tunnel! At least when I'm bug hunting there is a 65% chance that the bug will escape. Unless, I am in cat mode or Courtney's trapped a giant beetle under a vase. Then I win. Mwhaha.
So, originally I put a video from Celtic Thunder singing the title of today's post:
But, apparently copyright on Youtube was infringed and now the video won't play. So, here's a cheesy version (singing and video wise) of what I wanted to post.
I hate those pests. My feet are so itchy because of them. Yet, scratching just makes it worse. ARRGHH ¡Qué frustrante!
Even though I am vigilantly guarding myself from the torture that is a mosquito bite between the toes (oh, it is painful!) I can't bring myself to stoop to the neighborhood bro-level.
The other night my roommates, friends, and I were sitting on the deck, enjoying the night, and in the background there was a faint buzzing noise. We deduced (and saw) that the bros have a large bug-zapper on their front porch. Their night was spent drinking a few cold ones and cheering when a particularly juice bug found its destiny.
I don't know why, but I was so upset! These bugs are annoying, yes, but a bug-zapper is tricking and luring them into death. It's a literal light at the end of the tunnel! At least when I'm bug hunting there is a 65% chance that the bug will escape. Unless, I am in cat mode or Courtney's trapped a giant beetle under a vase. Then I win. Mwhaha.
So, originally I put a video from Celtic Thunder singing the title of today's post:
But, apparently copyright on Youtube was infringed and now the video won't play. So, here's a cheesy version (singing and video wise) of what I wanted to post.
Oh, I'm Feelin' Fine.
The fine feeling is for so many reasons. Let's begin!
1. I filled in as prop master and no one got hurt. Yea! I also had a good time with the cast afterwards, so that was sweet.
2. The trail mix I created is really tasty. Score.
3 Pottermore sorted me into Hufflepuff and I'm strangely okay with that. I also have the name of SeekerUnicorn2378 so that's awesome.
4. Most of my post-show evening was spent on Skype with four of the greatest ladies I know! Jen, Alyssa, Erin, and Rachel called me on Skype and we had a lovely chat! I love them so.
1. I filled in as prop master and no one got hurt. Yea! I also had a good time with the cast afterwards, so that was sweet.
2. The trail mix I created is really tasty. Score.
3 Pottermore sorted me into Hufflepuff and I'm strangely okay with that. I also have the name of SeekerUnicorn2378 so that's awesome.
4. Most of my post-show evening was spent on Skype with four of the greatest ladies I know! Jen, Alyssa, Erin, and Rachel called me on Skype and we had a lovely chat! I love them so.
July 7, 2012
Themed Thursday: Friday Edition
And don't you dare tell me that it is Saturday. I haven't gone to sleep yet, that renders your argument invalid.
Do you know what else renders your argument invalid? The impending Zombie Apocalypse. Yea, sink your teeth into that. You'll have to keep your brains about you. No use limping about and it would be ill-advised to just have everything flesh out.
The key to survival is to be prepared! Ergo, after watching a few episodes of The Walking Dead on Netflix, we decided to join the Zombie Apocalypse Survival Game created by my roommate Courtney and friend Veronica.
If you want to survive, you must have a team. According to the rules there can be three people on the team (in addition to yourself [4 for those without basic math skills]) living, dead, fictional, or non-fictional. This is the team you will have to survive the impending Zombie Apocalypse, so choose wisely.
For my team, I have a roster built on the principle that everyone is a super bad-ass. Obviously, I include myself in this.
Starting out we have the lovely, and deadly with a knife, Ms. Julia Child.
She was chosen for her ability to cook like a dream, cut the dickens out of a zombie (if faced with hand-to-hand combat), and tell a dirty joke. All important to keeping up moral and our sanity.
Next we have the brooding and incredibly unstable, Mr. Dexter Morgan.
He's smart, strong, knows about proper disposal of bodies, and sexy as hell. As long as I don't kill an innocent person, I'll be fine.
Last, but certainly not least, ladies and gentlemen, I give you Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore.
I don't really need to explain this choice. Dumbledore rules all. No question at all.
So there you have it, y'all. My unbeatable, unmunchable Zombie Apocalypse team.
Tonight's song doesn't have a cool video, but it is a fantastic jam. Enjoy!
Do you know what else renders your argument invalid? The impending Zombie Apocalypse. Yea, sink your teeth into that. You'll have to keep your brains about you. No use limping about and it would be ill-advised to just have everything flesh out.
The key to survival is to be prepared! Ergo, after watching a few episodes of The Walking Dead on Netflix, we decided to join the Zombie Apocalypse Survival Game created by my roommate Courtney and friend Veronica.
If you want to survive, you must have a team. According to the rules there can be three people on the team (in addition to yourself [4 for those without basic math skills]) living, dead, fictional, or non-fictional. This is the team you will have to survive the impending Zombie Apocalypse, so choose wisely.
For my team, I have a roster built on the principle that everyone is a super bad-ass. Obviously, I include myself in this.
Starting out we have the lovely, and deadly with a knife, Ms. Julia Child.
She was chosen for her ability to cook like a dream, cut the dickens out of a zombie (if faced with hand-to-hand combat), and tell a dirty joke. All important to keeping up moral and our sanity.
Next we have the brooding and incredibly unstable, Mr. Dexter Morgan.
He's smart, strong, knows about proper disposal of bodies, and sexy as hell. As long as I don't kill an innocent person, I'll be fine.
Last, but certainly not least, ladies and gentlemen, I give you Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore.
I don't really need to explain this choice. Dumbledore rules all. No question at all.
So there you have it, y'all. My unbeatable, unmunchable Zombie Apocalypse team.
Tonight's song doesn't have a cool video, but it is a fantastic jam. Enjoy!
July 5, 2012
KA-KA-BOOM!!!
There are so many explosions right now.
The first being my excitement because Kelsey is currently in my house, sleeping on the futon in the room directly below me! So far there has been a lot of talking, eating, walking, talking, and general shinanegans. And pie. Soo much pie. Not a complaint, more of a brag. I love me some pie. Mmerica.
Second, there is thunder at the moment. I think a storm is a-brewin'.
And finally, the neighborhood as been lit with fireworks for the past several hours. I thought one was going to hit my car. Grr. Unless I could collect for damages and get my A/C fixed...hmm. Fire away, dear neighborhood bros! Fire away!
No song listening tonight, just the sound of fireworks and bros.
The first being my excitement because Kelsey is currently in my house, sleeping on the futon in the room directly below me! So far there has been a lot of talking, eating, walking, talking, and general shinanegans. And pie. Soo much pie. Not a complaint, more of a brag. I love me some pie. Mmerica.
Second, there is thunder at the moment. I think a storm is a-brewin'.
And finally, the neighborhood as been lit with fireworks for the past several hours. I thought one was going to hit my car. Grr. Unless I could collect for damages and get my A/C fixed...hmm. Fire away, dear neighborhood bros! Fire away!
No song listening tonight, just the sound of fireworks and bros.
July 3, 2012
You're the words to my sentence.
It's midday and I'm hitting at 2:07 wall. No, I'm not promoting 5 hour energies, because those are gross. I am far more of a coffee girl.
Not saying I'm addicted, but I'm pretty addicted. Not a morning goes by without some sort of espresso-based beverage. Well, usually it's a mug of black coffee. That's right. Black. I'm hardcore.
Lately, it has been far too hot to drink my typical light-roast. I turned to my favorite website (Pinterest, duh)and found this delicious drink.
OM NOM NOM! It is SO very tasty! The link was removed from Pinterest, so here are the instructions:
--Brew a pot of strong coffee
--After allowing the coffee to cool, pour into an ice cube tray
--Freeze the coffee cubes
--Once frozen, put coffee cubes in a glass (duh) and pour vanilla-flavored almond milk into the glass
--Drink!
Did I mention this is delicious? Because it is!
In other news, my friend (because I'm not as professional as John...read his blog, you'll understand what I'm talking about) John started a blog! Woot! You can find it here: John Eavin
What am I currently listening to/where the heck does that title come from? This video:
Not saying I'm addicted, but I'm pretty addicted. Not a morning goes by without some sort of espresso-based beverage. Well, usually it's a mug of black coffee. That's right. Black. I'm hardcore.
Lately, it has been far too hot to drink my typical light-roast. I turned to my favorite website (Pinterest, duh)and found this delicious drink.
OM NOM NOM! It is SO very tasty! The link was removed from Pinterest, so here are the instructions:
--Brew a pot of strong coffee
--After allowing the coffee to cool, pour into an ice cube tray
--Freeze the coffee cubes
--Once frozen, put coffee cubes in a glass (duh) and pour vanilla-flavored almond milk into the glass
--Drink!
Did I mention this is delicious? Because it is!
In other news, my friend (because I'm not as professional as John...read his blog, you'll understand what I'm talking about) John started a blog! Woot! You can find it here: John Eavin
What am I currently listening to/where the heck does that title come from? This video:
I've Got This Friend...
KELSEY IS VISITING KELSEY IS VISITING KELSEY IS VISITING!!!
Yea, I may explode of excitement. Only, I won't. Because then I would be dead and unable to spend a glorious 3 1/2 days with Kelsey. Which would be bad. I will avoid exploding at all costs. Yea, that's a good plan.
In other news, which still relates to this visit, I've been busy planning activities for us to do. So far I have ADVENTURING, pie, a theatrical performance, and a fancy dinner. SO MANY ACTIVITIES. Plus, the traditional Duluth tourist mumbo-jumbo because I have a Duluth tourist on my hands.
This song doesn't really pertain to anything I wrote about. It just has the word friend repeated throughout the song. Plus, it was playing on my 8tracks as I was typing.
Yea, I may explode of excitement. Only, I won't. Because then I would be dead and unable to spend a glorious 3 1/2 days with Kelsey. Which would be bad. I will avoid exploding at all costs. Yea, that's a good plan.
In other news, which still relates to this visit, I've been busy planning activities for us to do. So far I have ADVENTURING, pie, a theatrical performance, and a fancy dinner. SO MANY ACTIVITIES. Plus, the traditional Duluth tourist mumbo-jumbo because I have a Duluth tourist on my hands.
This song doesn't really pertain to anything I wrote about. It just has the word friend repeated throughout the song. Plus, it was playing on my 8tracks as I was typing.
July 1, 2012
Boom boom boom boom
Today was a lot of blog designing, making guacamole, stealing daisies from school grounds (I mean, tuition is quite expensive I feel privileged to take some beautiful wildflowers), and seeing Moonrise Kingdom.
If you haven't seen this film yet, GET YOUR BUTT TO A THEATER! It was spectacular. Highly recommended. Seventeen out of ten stars! Plus the soundtrack rocks. The promotions team did a really cool marketing scheme with the website 8tracks and created a bunch of playlists relating to the various characters.
In other news, the countdown to Ecuador has begun! In two months and four days, I'll have landed in Quito! Ahh! I can't believe this is happening!
Tonight's soundtrack and title are from this playlist:
If you haven't seen this film yet, GET YOUR BUTT TO A THEATER! It was spectacular. Highly recommended. Seventeen out of ten stars! Plus the soundtrack rocks. The promotions team did a really cool marketing scheme with the website 8tracks and created a bunch of playlists relating to the various characters.
In other news, the countdown to Ecuador has begun! In two months and four days, I'll have landed in Quito! Ahh! I can't believe this is happening!
Tonight's soundtrack and title are from this playlist:
June 30, 2012
Where'd ya get those fancy clothes?
Even if I was wearing fancy clothes (which I am definitely NOT) my evening's activities were not black-tie worthy.
Sometimes I think I am the world's worst twenty-something. Seriously. It is Saturday night and I am in a grubby t-shirt and leggings eating yogurt, berries, and granola. Those are not Saturday night clothes or Saturday night foods. I'm so lame.
There was a moment tonight while I was scrubbing out the garbage can (yea. YEA. Eww.) when I realized I was growing up. Mostly, it was the voluntary scrubbing of a disgusting garbage can. Only adults do nasty things like that on a "oh, I suppose I should do that" basis. AND I DID IT ON A SATURDAY. Boy, hello Dorthy, Blanche, Sophia, and Rose. (That was a Golden Girls reference for all of you cool-kids who have cool-kid things to do...why are you reading this blog?)
All dreams-of-being-a-cool-kid aside, I like having days where all I do is laundry, wash dishes, and munch granola. It's relaxing and with a decent soundtrack (The Black Keys) it can even be fun.
Speaking of The Black Keys, they're the title of the day! Wahoo!
Sometimes I think I am the world's worst twenty-something. Seriously. It is Saturday night and I am in a grubby t-shirt and leggings eating yogurt, berries, and granola. Those are not Saturday night clothes or Saturday night foods. I'm so lame.
There was a moment tonight while I was scrubbing out the garbage can (yea. YEA. Eww.) when I realized I was growing up. Mostly, it was the voluntary scrubbing of a disgusting garbage can. Only adults do nasty things like that on a "oh, I suppose I should do that" basis. AND I DID IT ON A SATURDAY. Boy, hello Dorthy, Blanche, Sophia, and Rose. (That was a Golden Girls reference for all of you cool-kids who have cool-kid things to do...why are you reading this blog?)
All dreams-of-being-a-cool-kid aside, I like having days where all I do is laundry, wash dishes, and munch granola. It's relaxing and with a decent soundtrack (The Black Keys) it can even be fun.
Speaking of The Black Keys, they're the title of the day! Wahoo!
June 29, 2012
I must live with my quiet rage.
The rage applies to Facebook because I can't comment, add anything, or generally stalk people like I normally do. Something is amiss and it is bothering me.
Other than that, I know it is still Thursday but I have to get up early (on a Saturday, gross)for a meeting that may or may not be happening. I should really write things down better.
I am bursting at the seams with excitement. Close to explosion point. I'll share later because it's just so good!!! So SO good!
Enjoy the song o' the night, chums!
Other than that, I know it is still Thursday but I have to get up early (on a Saturday, gross)for a meeting that may or may not be happening. I should really write things down better.
I am bursting at the seams with excitement. Close to explosion point. I'll share later because it's just so good!!! So SO good!
Enjoy the song o' the night, chums!
Themed Thursday: Don Draper edition
I feel a bit bad for agreeing to this Themed Thursday. But, let me state for the record, Kelsey suggested a pitch. This came after I had a shameful (wonderful) night of watching multiple episodes of Mad Men and desperately wanting to be Joan Halloway.
We both love Mad Men, as do most of my advertising and marketing major friends. OH YEA! I'm a Communication (former Advertising and Public Relations) major. Sorry, sweetie. I do this ish on a regular basis. BOOM!
Now I have to come up with something decent...crap.
The client, Yellow Pencil #2 edition, can be assured of Ruszat & Sons Creative Agency's understanding the importance of such a valuable tool. How many times does a brilliant idea for the next great movie, invention, or song pop into your head and you find yourself wishing for something to write with?
Yellow Pencil #2-- Always there at the right time.
We both love Mad Men, as do most of my advertising and marketing major friends. OH YEA! I'm a Communication (former Advertising and Public Relations) major. Sorry, sweetie. I do this ish on a regular basis. BOOM!
Now I have to come up with something decent...crap.
The client, Yellow Pencil #2 edition, can be assured of Ruszat & Sons Creative Agency's understanding the importance of such a valuable tool. How many times does a brilliant idea for the next great movie, invention, or song pop into your head and you find yourself wishing for something to write with?
June 27, 2012
Sweatin' to the oldies
What a lovely day! (to be sitting in an office.)
Recently I've noticed that all this sitting I do is making me uncomfortable and cranky. Apparently, there are studies saying desk sitting will be the death of us all.
NPR did a story in April about how negative sitting can be for our health. Great. Good thing I am laying down right now!
All joking aside, the highlight of my day on this balmy Wednesday was walking to lunch. It was refreshing and fun. Plus I was a super badass and walked across the "condemned" bridge. Awh yea. Hard core. I also looked up some desk exercises (and how to spell exercise) because I am sick of sitting. One of my bosses has a standing desk and a yoga ball to sit on instead of a chair. She knows what's up.
So, if you see me doing leg lifts or dancing by my computer, join in! We can deskercise together.
Recently I've noticed that all this sitting I do is making me uncomfortable and cranky. Apparently, there are studies saying desk sitting will be the death of us all.
NPR did a story in April about how negative sitting can be for our health. Great. Good thing I am laying down right now!
All joking aside, the highlight of my day on this balmy Wednesday was walking to lunch. It was refreshing and fun. Plus I was a super badass and walked across the "condemned" bridge. Awh yea. Hard core. I also looked up some desk exercises (and how to spell exercise) because I am sick of sitting. One of my bosses has a standing desk and a yoga ball to sit on instead of a chair. She knows what's up.
So, if you see me doing leg lifts or dancing by my computer, join in! We can deskercise together.
June 26, 2012
I've been tryin' to do it right...
More song lyrics! This may be a new thing.
You might have noticed the new layout. I had some time to fool around on PhotoShop and ta-da! According to my personal brand consultants, John and Whitley, my brand includes flowery skirts, bright colors, and glasses. Check, check, and check.
Personal branding is fascinating. It makes me think about what I will be remembered for. I think I'm okay with what was listed above.
My attempt is to get my blog as awesome as possible before leaving for Ecuador. I know it is full of nonsense, but it is my nonsense and I absolutely adore it.
This is where my title came from. It's currently my favorite song.
You might have noticed the new layout. I had some time to fool around on PhotoShop and ta-da! According to my personal brand consultants, John and Whitley, my brand includes flowery skirts, bright colors, and glasses. Check, check, and check.
Personal branding is fascinating. It makes me think about what I will be remembered for. I think I'm okay with what was listed above.
My attempt is to get my blog as awesome as possible before leaving for Ecuador. I know it is full of nonsense, but it is my nonsense and I absolutely adore it.
This is where my title came from. It's currently my favorite song.
June 25, 2012
Age only matters in cheese
I am twenty years old. This means I have been a human being on Planet Earth for twenty years. Biologically, that is my age. But if we were to to figure out ages of maturity and the age of the soul, I think my number would be far away from twenty.
See, I have the maturity of a four-year-old boy. I laugh at the dumbest jokes (Dad) and would rather be playing in the dirt than being at work (or really, anything.) Cartoons are favorite forms of entertainment and I love junk food shaped like a dinosaur.
My soul must be in the upper eighties. I love to knit, bake, and sit at home on a Friday night in my PJs and not socialize with peers my own age. That is just far too much effort and there is usually a Golden Girls marathon playing on Fridays.
Priorities people.
See, I have the maturity of a four-year-old boy. I laugh at the dumbest jokes (Dad) and would rather be playing in the dirt than being at work (or really, anything.) Cartoons are favorite forms of entertainment and I love junk food shaped like a dinosaur.
My soul must be in the upper eighties. I love to knit, bake, and sit at home on a Friday night in my PJs and not socialize with peers my own age. That is just far too much effort and there is usually a Golden Girls marathon playing on Fridays.
Priorities people.
Waking up smiling.
Have you ever had such a good night that you wake up with a smile on your face? I did this morning. Maybe it was the thought of Pizza Luce brunch I would soon ingest. Or my night was just so pleasant that I couldn't be anything but happy.
My night wasn't even extravagant. I saw an awesome Duluth band, Yester (CHECK THEM OUT!) and went to a bar where my friends and I played card games. I learned how to play a Norwegian game called "Idiot" (except it is in Norwegian...I don't know Norwegian.) and had a grand time.
Goes to show how important it is to have the right people in your life.
My night wasn't even extravagant. I saw an awesome Duluth band, Yester (CHECK THEM OUT!) and went to a bar where my friends and I played card games. I learned how to play a Norwegian game called "Idiot" (except it is in Norwegian...I don't know Norwegian.) and had a grand time.
Goes to show how important it is to have the right people in your life.
June 23, 2012
Art rhymes with...
If you said fart, you posses the maturity of a five-year-old. We should be friends.
Most of today was spent strolling through the Park Point Art Fair and spending quite a bit of money on art. Which I can justify because it is all so COOL!
I have this obsession for awesome prints. Especially with bright colors. So I ended up buying one very large awesome print from The Medium Control that will hopefully be hanging in the kitchen soon.
Also, I purchased a few packs of note cards. One has Ms. Kelsey McSassyPants' name on it and I am going to frame one or two in small frames. The cards are about the same size as the cheapest prints, but because of their "card" status they cost less monies! I'm thinking with my noggin now!
Art is cool. Support artists. Or else.
(This is an empty threat. I'm a pacifist.)
Most of today was spent strolling through the Park Point Art Fair and spending quite a bit of money on art. Which I can justify because it is all so COOL!
I have this obsession for awesome prints. Especially with bright colors. So I ended up buying one very large awesome print from The Medium Control that will hopefully be hanging in the kitchen soon.
Also, I purchased a few packs of note cards. One has Ms. Kelsey McSassyPants' name on it and I am going to frame one or two in small frames. The cards are about the same size as the cheapest prints, but because of their "card" status they cost less monies! I'm thinking with my noggin now!
If I had an orchard...
The title of this post has nothing to do with what I am going to write. It IS in the song I am listening to, though. Any guesses?
Today moved in slow motion. Which gave me the idea that I have time-bending powers. Awh yea. I was a part of a conference call regarding my study abroad program and the butterflies of excitement and nervousness are starting to form. Within MONTHS I am going to be living in South America! Right now, I'm trying to finish getting the required shots, fill out forms, etc. but I am also making a list of what I should pack and chatting up alumns of the program. Hopefully my internship and host family placements come soon!
Damn, this is exciting.
Also, I am stoked to be the first person on Kelsey's letter leader board. STOKED I tell ya.
Today moved in slow motion. Which gave me the idea that I have time-bending powers. Awh yea. I was a part of a conference call regarding my study abroad program and the butterflies of excitement and nervousness are starting to form. Within MONTHS I am going to be living in South America! Right now, I'm trying to finish getting the required shots, fill out forms, etc. but I am also making a list of what I should pack and chatting up alumns of the program. Hopefully my internship and host family placements come soon!
Damn, this is exciting.
Also, I am stoked to be the first person on Kelsey's letter leader board. STOKED I tell ya.
June 22, 2012
Holy haberdashery Batman!
My mission: What obscure superpower would you want?
Level of difficulty: medium
Favorite cheese: mozzarella
I if I could have any power in the world to use in my every day life, I would want to be able to look at something, anything and know what had to be done to fix it. Like my car, if it (continues) to make a strange rumbling noise I would be able to look at it, know I should probably get an oil change, and go on with my life.
This would be perfect for editing papers, seeing what else needed to be added to my soup, knowing what is wrong with people who only answer a, "Hey, you seem down. What's wrong?" with a "Nothing." (PS that drives me insane. If you want help/need someone to talk to just tell me! Social cues and I are not the greatest of friends.)
I could be a doctor with 100% diagnosis success and charge mega monies for my skillz. They (being my skillz) are so impressive, I have to spell it with a "z."
The name might need a little bit of work.
June 20, 2012
Dam, this is going to be a watered down post.
So where I'm living is infamous for being a ridiculously hilly city. We're also known for our snow and the band Trampled by Turtles. Duluth is awesome. Well, unless it's flooded. Then, it's a sinkhole. Seriously, we had major damage on our roads and many houses. A state of emergency was declared by our mayor and some people had to be evacuated.
Luckily, my house only has a foot of water in the basement and the roads in my neighborhood are fine. We didn't even see the escaped seal. Yea, a seal escaped from the zoo and was found on an avenue close by. She's okay, but many animals unfortunately died due to flooding of the zoo.
Even in this wicked disaster, many people are trying to keep a good sense of humor about it. I can't stop laughing at the picture of the escaped seal:
The look on her face! Bhaha! I may or may not have this picture as my computer background. I totally do.
My on-campus job sent everyone home because campus was getting a bit soggy.
That is the entrance to Scholastica and under (on) the bridge is Chester Creek. Yes, a creek.
At home, two of my roommates and I made flood playlists to pass the time. Seeing as I am obsessed with the renegade seal, I just had to make it my cover. Hehe, seriously, I crack up every time.
But, in all seriousness, my thoughts and prayers are going out to all of those impacted by the flood. Nature can be devastating.
Luckily, my house only has a foot of water in the basement and the roads in my neighborhood are fine. We didn't even see the escaped seal. Yea, a seal escaped from the zoo and was found on an avenue close by. She's okay, but many animals unfortunately died due to flooding of the zoo.
Even in this wicked disaster, many people are trying to keep a good sense of humor about it. I can't stop laughing at the picture of the escaped seal:
The look on her face! Bhaha! I may or may not have this picture as my computer background. I totally do.
My on-campus job sent everyone home because campus was getting a bit soggy.
That is the entrance to Scholastica and under (on) the bridge is Chester Creek. Yes, a creek.
At home, two of my roommates and I made flood playlists to pass the time. Seeing as I am obsessed with the renegade seal, I just had to make it my cover. Hehe, seriously, I crack up every time.
But, in all seriousness, my thoughts and prayers are going out to all of those impacted by the flood. Nature can be devastating.
**These pictures are not mine, but those shared on the Twin Ports Flood 2012 Facebook page**
June 19, 2012
Never get involved in a land war in Asia...
I was very busy this weekend. You know, job, family, meeting world-famous baseball players, driving (a lot of driving), and then going back to work. Full time. That's quite the plateful for such a young girl. But, does the blog-off care? Would there be an ounce of compassion shown?
In order to regain the ground I have lost, I will be creating the best blog post EVER.
EVER
First: Play this video.
Kazoos, rock.
Now, as the dulcet sounds of two kazoos, yes two, serenade you, proceed to look at these pictures of small animals in cups.
Is your heart melting?! Because it should be. If you don't like small animals in cups, good luck in life without a soul.
This past weekend was full of celebrations, which was wonderful in my mind. I had frozen yogurt with Samantha, played games with my parents, went to a Twins game, watched the Twins lose, and partied hard-ied on Sunday for my mom's birthday and for Father's Day. Perfect weekend, if you ask me. I also took a picture of former Twins great, Tony Oliva. Check out my dad's blog for the complete story -- A Chef's Musings
Wasn't this one of the greatest, if not THE greatest blog posts of all time? It has everything one could and should desire in a post. Beautiful music, adorable animals, Princess Bride quotes, yarns from my daily life, and unicorns. Oh, you didn't see unicorns?
It's just so fluffy, I wanna die.
June 14, 2012
THEMED THURSDAY!!!
Wee! I am so excited! This week Kelsey and I decided to go all short-story on yous. We came up with the line: After class, I was sitting the in the school bathroom when someone shut the lights off on me.
Now, I'm not saying that this happened to me on Tuesday, but the number one rule of writing is "write what you know." And I'll find you, you light-turning off monster!
Will to Survive
After class, I was sitting in the school bathroom when someone shut the lights off on me.
“Uhm, hello?! There is someone in here still!” I cried out in the pitch-black room. No one answered and the song “Mr. Cellophane” from Chicago swelled into my mind. How the hell am I going to get out of here? I was sitting in the third stall from the left on the third floor of the library. No one goes up here. It’s abandoned and that’s why I like it. I’m not saying I’m pee-shy, but an audience is not required for my every action. Hastily I readjust to be publically presentable, that is, if I ever make it back to the public. This school seriously needs to update the lights in here to sense motion. Groping around for the door lock, I find nothing. My eyes refuse to readjust in the darkness.
I’m going to end up living in this bathroom, which is a convenient place to be, given natural bodily functions, and I have a few granola bars in my backpack hanging on the hook in front of me. Usually, in a fight or flight situation, I opt for flight. It’s safer and less likely to cause me to flex my insane lack of muscle. But, there was the time I went camping with friends. I chopped wood and canoed like a lumber Jane. We, as animals, have a natural instinct to survive and mine was beginning to kick in. Yes, I could become a bathroom hermit. It will be a bit unsanitary, but life is messy. Feeling empowered I screamed at the forces of darkness that have trapped me here, “Bring it on bitches! I am ready to take you down!” Cue theme from Rocky.
As I jabbed the air with my fist, trying to float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, I smacked my shin on the toilet bowl. The pain brought me back to the reality that I am stuck in my library’s bathroom while I should be studying. Ugh, I should try to escape.
Slinging my backpack over my shoulders, I gently caressed the door from the top along the sides until I felt the cool, small metal lock in my right hand. Why didn’t I think of this sooner? I opened the door and, with my hands outstretched trying to find the wall, I slowly crept out of my stall/cave. After eons my fingers felt tile and I quickly threw myself against the wall, giving new meaning to “hugging the wall.” Gingerly, I slid along the wall, arms outstretched, hoping to find the door. Creep, creep, creep. I was so wrapped up in my thoughts, I barely noticed the sound of the door knob turning, but I did notice the blazing light now being emitted, with me, still hugging the wall, inches away from the door.
“Oh, sorry…I thought I heard screaming from the bathroom. Are you, okay?” asks a freshman girl who is giving me a rather quizzical look. I would have rushed over and given her a big hug, but I really needed to wash my hands. Survival is gross.
Now, I'm not saying that this happened to me on Tuesday, but the number one rule of writing is "write what you know." And I'll find you, you light-turning off monster!
After class, I was sitting in the school bathroom when someone shut the lights off on me.
“Uhm, hello?! There is someone in here still!” I cried out in the pitch-black room. No one answered and the song “Mr. Cellophane” from Chicago swelled into my mind. How the hell am I going to get out of here? I was sitting in the third stall from the left on the third floor of the library. No one goes up here. It’s abandoned and that’s why I like it. I’m not saying I’m pee-shy, but an audience is not required for my every action. Hastily I readjust to be publically presentable, that is, if I ever make it back to the public. This school seriously needs to update the lights in here to sense motion. Groping around for the door lock, I find nothing. My eyes refuse to readjust in the darkness.
I’m going to end up living in this bathroom, which is a convenient place to be, given natural bodily functions, and I have a few granola bars in my backpack hanging on the hook in front of me. Usually, in a fight or flight situation, I opt for flight. It’s safer and less likely to cause me to flex my insane lack of muscle. But, there was the time I went camping with friends. I chopped wood and canoed like a lumber Jane. We, as animals, have a natural instinct to survive and mine was beginning to kick in. Yes, I could become a bathroom hermit. It will be a bit unsanitary, but life is messy. Feeling empowered I screamed at the forces of darkness that have trapped me here, “Bring it on bitches! I am ready to take you down!” Cue theme from Rocky.
As I jabbed the air with my fist, trying to float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, I smacked my shin on the toilet bowl. The pain brought me back to the reality that I am stuck in my library’s bathroom while I should be studying. Ugh, I should try to escape.
Slinging my backpack over my shoulders, I gently caressed the door from the top along the sides until I felt the cool, small metal lock in my right hand. Why didn’t I think of this sooner? I opened the door and, with my hands outstretched trying to find the wall, I slowly crept out of my stall/cave. After eons my fingers felt tile and I quickly threw myself against the wall, giving new meaning to “hugging the wall.” Gingerly, I slid along the wall, arms outstretched, hoping to find the door. Creep, creep, creep. I was so wrapped up in my thoughts, I barely noticed the sound of the door knob turning, but I did notice the blazing light now being emitted, with me, still hugging the wall, inches away from the door.
“Oh, sorry…I thought I heard screaming from the bathroom. Are you, okay?” asks a freshman girl who is giving me a rather quizzical look. I would have rushed over and given her a big hug, but I really needed to wash my hands. Survival is gross.
June 13, 2012
Make Chili, Not Excuses.
We're heading back to my blogging roots, folks. That's right. I'm in the kitchen. Only this time I don't have an apron. It's lost. I'm sad.
I bet a large bowl of turkey-chili would cheer me up.
I was right.
Because I have a rather hectic life, I like to plan my meals for the week on Saturday, Sunday, or (on an especially crazy week) Monday. Then I go and buy the ingredients to prepare culinary masterpieces. For example, I've made caprese pasta, cucumber-dill sandwiches, and Po' Boys. Oh yea, you're all kinds of impressed right now, aren't you!
My culinary talent is all thanks to my new cook book The BrokeAss Gourmet. Seriously, if you're a foodie-college kid (I know, narrow market...but hey, we exist!) go purchase this book. 86% of my recent meals have stemmed from this book. The other 14% is take-out. Like I said, college kid.
In anticipation of my upcoming study-abroad trip, I have started eating meat again. My digestion doesn't really like it, but hey, gotta be done. Research told me to eat lean meats, like fish and turkey, for a smoother transition. So I have been! This recipe is fantastic and I highly recommend it to all non-vegheads.
ridiculously easy turkey chili
by the BrokeAss Gourmet
prep time 10 minutes | cook time 20 minutes (this seemed fairly accurate, but I had to thaw my turkey in the pot [always pre-plan])
(I also suggest throwing on The Black Keys, especially "Act Nice and Gentle" to cook to. Perfect chili-making music.)
ingredients
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (or sunflower oil...that's what I used)
1 onion, chopped
3 (or 6) cloves garlic, minced (I love garlic and showing off my knife skills)
1 pound lean ground turkey (thaw it. Lesson learned. Again)
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained (I used the 2 cans plus a can of white beans)
1 (16-ounce) container pico de gallo (whatever the guy at Cub gave me, is what I used. I recommend using more salsa for a more vegetable-y taste or use vegetables)
1 teaspoon cumin (haha I just shook the spice container over it)
1 teaspoon chili powder (ditto)
salt and pepper to taste
(SRIRACHA SAUCE!!!) Especially if you dig spicy chili.
directions
1. heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. Add ground turkey and allow turkey to brown, stirring occasionally, 4-5 minutes (time is relevant)
2. Add beans, pico de gallo, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-12 minutes until hot and bubbly. If chili becomes too thick (not a problem seeing as I dumped a ton of water in the pot to cook my turkey...) add a little water.
3. Serve hot, as is (pfft) or garnished with shredded cheese (:D), cilantro, chopped onions, sour cream, avocado (oh that would've been good!), hot sauce (:D), etc.
Seriously delicious. I'm on my second bowl as we, erhm, type. After this, I must move our stove so I can grab the spoon which fell valiantly in battle with the frozen turkey. She will get a hero's scrubbing.
I bet a large bowl of turkey-chili would cheer me up.
Because I have a rather hectic life, I like to plan my meals for the week on Saturday, Sunday, or (on an especially crazy week) Monday. Then I go and buy the ingredients to prepare culinary masterpieces. For example, I've made caprese pasta, cucumber-dill sandwiches, and Po' Boys. Oh yea, you're all kinds of impressed right now, aren't you!
My culinary talent is all thanks to my new cook book The BrokeAss Gourmet. Seriously, if you're a foodie-college kid (I know, narrow market...but hey, we exist!) go purchase this book. 86% of my recent meals have stemmed from this book. The other 14% is take-out. Like I said, college kid.
In anticipation of my upcoming study-abroad trip, I have started eating meat again. My digestion doesn't really like it, but hey, gotta be done. Research told me to eat lean meats, like fish and turkey, for a smoother transition. So I have been! This recipe is fantastic and I highly recommend it to all non-vegheads.
prep time 10 minutes | cook time 20 minutes (this seemed fairly accurate, but I had to thaw my turkey in the pot [always pre-plan])
(I also suggest throwing on The Black Keys, especially "Act Nice and Gentle" to cook to. Perfect chili-making music.)
ingredients
1 onion, chopped
3 (or 6) cloves garlic, minced (I love garlic and showing off my knife skills)
1 pound lean ground turkey (thaw it. Lesson learned. Again)
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained (I used the 2 cans plus a can of white beans)
1 (16-ounce) container pico de gallo (whatever the guy at Cub gave me, is what I used. I recommend using more salsa for a more vegetable-y taste or use vegetables)
1 teaspoon cumin (haha I just shook the spice container over it)
1 teaspoon chili powder (ditto)
salt and pepper to taste
(SRIRACHA SAUCE!!!) Especially if you dig spicy chili.
directions
1. heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. Add ground turkey and allow turkey to brown, stirring occasionally, 4-5 minutes (time is relevant)
2. Add beans, pico de gallo, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-12 minutes until hot and bubbly. If chili becomes too thick (not a problem seeing as I dumped a ton of water in the pot to cook my turkey...) add a little water.
3. Serve hot, as is (pfft) or garnished with shredded cheese (:D), cilantro, chopped onions, sour cream, avocado (oh that would've been good!), hot sauce (:D), etc.
Seriously delicious. I'm on my second bowl as we, erhm, type. After this, I must move our stove so I can grab the spoon which fell valiantly in battle with the frozen turkey. She will get a hero's scrubbing.
June 12, 2012
humenah humenah humenah
For some reason, the eloquent prose which normally flows from my fingertips and onto my keyboard isn't working today.
Neither is my blogger account. I've been trying to upload photos...no go. Sorry all! I'll try to work some HTML magic. Don't expect much. Except for you, Kelsey. Expect a letter because I mailed one yesterday.
Neither is my blogger account. I've been trying to upload photos...no go. Sorry all! I'll try to work some HTML magic. Don't expect much. Except for you, Kelsey. Expect a letter because I mailed one yesterday.
June 11, 2012
What is this "free time?"
The play is over and I am sad. But, alas it had to happen. Now I have an abundance of this thing called "free time" which I have heard so much about.
Today I had an appointment to make my mop of hair into something presentable. This is how it turned out!
Wee! I'm cute!
The rest of the night included a trip to the grocery store, cooking and eating a po'boy sandwich (yum), and making tomorrow's lunch. I also attempted to unclog the drain with baking soda and apple vinegar. I think it worked! Wahoo science. Now, I'm filling out tedious paperwork in my 1950's house-wife kitchen with Edith Piaf signing in the background and a bowl of cheerios in my lap. What a night.
Today I had an appointment to make my mop of hair into something presentable. This is how it turned out!
Wee! I'm cute!
The rest of the night included a trip to the grocery store, cooking and eating a po'boy sandwich (yum), and making tomorrow's lunch. I also attempted to unclog the drain with baking soda and apple vinegar. I think it worked! Wahoo science. Now, I'm filling out tedious paperwork in my 1950's house-wife kitchen with Edith Piaf signing in the background and a bowl of cheerios in my lap. What a night.
June 10, 2012
From Real Family to Royal Family...
So much wonderful was packed into this day! I'm sure you're dying for an account! Well, I'm happy to oblige.
It started with a wonderful brunch at Pizza Luce with my roommate Courtney and my lovely parents! Yes, they drove two and a half hours north to support and not see me in The Royal Family. We had a lovely walk to the Lake afterwards. It was a bit cool and getting warmer, so the temperature was ideal (in my mind...) I love seeing my mom and dad. If Samantha would've shown up, the day might have been even more complete.
Next it was time for the show. It was lovely, though everything that could have gone wrong for me DID go wrong. I did a lot of quick thinking and running around pounding on doors. We ended the run with a wonderful celebration at a local bar. I hope you, dear reader, have theater friends. If you don't, head down to the nearest audition, do a jazz-square, and make friends with some dramatic people. Your life will improve greatly. Never will there be a lull in the conversation or a moment where an odd facial-expression is inappropriate. Never. Speech kids will do as well. These are the people who are not afraid to be loud, make awkward eye-contact (or magical) across the room, and will always have a fantastic one-liner.
When I arrived home, Courtney and I decided to watch a movie. This required popcorn. TO THE STORE! So, we purchased the popcorn and headed back to my car in the muggy, stuffy air Duluth decided to produce. The only solution to combating this problem was to jump in Lake Superior. Which we did. It was so f@*!ing cold! But refreshing at the same time. I did slip on a rock and cut my knee pretty badly. I'm surprised my parents didn't name me Grace, because that's clearly a better fit for me.
The rest of the night included Casablanca, cookies, and couch time. It has been a most wonderful day.
It started with a wonderful brunch at Pizza Luce with my roommate Courtney and my lovely parents! Yes, they drove two and a half hours north to support and not see me in The Royal Family. We had a lovely walk to the Lake afterwards. It was a bit cool and getting warmer, so the temperature was ideal (in my mind...) I love seeing my mom and dad. If Samantha would've shown up, the day might have been even more complete.
Next it was time for the show. It was lovely, though everything that could have gone wrong for me DID go wrong. I did a lot of quick thinking and running around pounding on doors. We ended the run with a wonderful celebration at a local bar. I hope you, dear reader, have theater friends. If you don't, head down to the nearest audition, do a jazz-square, and make friends with some dramatic people. Your life will improve greatly. Never will there be a lull in the conversation or a moment where an odd facial-expression is inappropriate. Never. Speech kids will do as well. These are the people who are not afraid to be loud, make awkward eye-contact (or magical) across the room, and will always have a fantastic one-liner.
When I arrived home, Courtney and I decided to watch a movie. This required popcorn. TO THE STORE! So, we purchased the popcorn and headed back to my car in the muggy, stuffy air Duluth decided to produce. The only solution to combating this problem was to jump in Lake Superior. Which we did. It was so f@*!ing cold! But refreshing at the same time. I did slip on a rock and cut my knee pretty badly. I'm surprised my parents didn't name me Grace, because that's clearly a better fit for me.
The rest of the night included Casablanca, cookies, and couch time. It has been a most wonderful day.
Attention Neighborhood Bros...
I'm trying to sleep and your bro-ing out time, is really interfering with that! Don't you know I have a busy day tomorrow?! My parents are coming to see The Royal Family and they are kind enough to take me out to brunch! I must be well rested! The sun was so wonderful today that I had to go outside and enjoy it. This left a weird burn on my left arm and leg. Gentlemen, please take the bromances inside. Also, dear bros, I've had a long day of playing with my new camera! Please respect my sleepiness.
I guess I'll just let the sound of "Ya man" and the recycling of bottles lull me to sleep.
I guess I'll just let the sound of "Ya man" and the recycling of bottles lull me to sleep.
June 8, 2012
Burrito Friday!
That's right. Me and some other student workers have burritos on Friday. It is glorious. The tasty burritos were desperately needed after a really long afternoon. I am really tired and I feel like I have been up for hours. Which I have, but that's besides the point.
Last night the show went really well, but I didn't get home until 10:30ish and after working from eight to four, I was pooped. The marketing department hosted our local social media breakfast this morning. Being the wonderful student workers we are, John, Whitley, and I volunteered to help direct people to the room in exchange for sitting in on the discussion. It was really fascinating. Well, I think social media policies for businesses are fascinating... The only downside was that we had to be there at 6:45 am. Ew.
After the breakfast we had the photo shoot in a stuffy dorm. The pictures turned out really great and I am excited to almost cross one building off of the list. I had a blast staging the room and working with John and Whitley. The burritos weren't bad either.
Last night the show went really well, but I didn't get home until 10:30ish and after working from eight to four, I was pooped. The marketing department hosted our local social media breakfast this morning. Being the wonderful student workers we are, John, Whitley, and I volunteered to help direct people to the room in exchange for sitting in on the discussion. It was really fascinating. Well, I think social media policies for businesses are fascinating... The only downside was that we had to be there at 6:45 am. Ew.
After the breakfast we had the photo shoot in a stuffy dorm. The pictures turned out really great and I am excited to almost cross one building off of the list. I had a blast staging the room and working with John and Whitley. The burritos weren't bad either.
June 7, 2012
Themed Thursday Triumph!
Alliterations are fun.
Kelsey and I are doing shared-themed days, so be sure to go to her blog to check out her cheeky response. Plus, she posted about me. Can you tell I'm blushing? Why, I do declare! (said in a Blanch Devereaux accent)
This week the theme is:
What is your ideal living room wall?
I love art. Also, I love having art and I couldn't live without being surrounded by explosions of color. So, in my living room (when I get settled in a more permanent situation) the wall will probably look like this:
I love the idea of an incredibly powerful wall color (and I mean, that white trim! Yum.) but it doesn't overwhelm with simple and beautiful prints, wall hangings, and art.
My favorite color is teal. It's so vibrant and yet, calm and beautiful. I love this color scheme that I found on Lovely Undergrad
Sigh--if only my landlord let us paint.
One of my life goals is to befriend as many artists as possible. That way, I can have fantastic art all over my walls. Right now, I'm set on getting a Flo Doodle. She's incredible and you should check her out HERE!!!
I also really would love a print of my favorite state. If you didn't know (plus, shame on you! I wrote about this already!) I'm a Minnesotan girl. My wall will definitely have some home-state love on it.
Well, now we wait in bated anticipation for a) me to actually have a wall I can do this too b) Kelsey's response and c) for me to find a decent cup of coffee in this joint.
**images were taken from Pinterest**
Kelsey and I are doing shared-themed days, so be sure to go to her blog to check out her cheeky response. Plus, she posted about me. Can you tell I'm blushing? Why, I do declare! (said in a Blanch Devereaux accent)
This week the theme is:
I love art. Also, I love having art and I couldn't live without being surrounded by explosions of color. So, in my living room (when I get settled in a more permanent situation) the wall will probably look like this:
I love the idea of an incredibly powerful wall color (and I mean, that white trim! Yum.) but it doesn't overwhelm with simple and beautiful prints, wall hangings, and art.
My favorite color is teal. It's so vibrant and yet, calm and beautiful. I love this color scheme that I found on Lovely Undergrad
Sigh--if only my landlord let us paint.
One of my life goals is to befriend as many artists as possible. That way, I can have fantastic art all over my walls. Right now, I'm set on getting a Flo Doodle. She's incredible and you should check her out HERE!!!
I also really would love a print of my favorite state. If you didn't know (plus, shame on you! I wrote about this already!) I'm a Minnesotan girl. My wall will definitely have some home-state love on it.
Well, now we wait in bated anticipation for a) me to actually have a wall I can do this too b) Kelsey's response and c) for me to find a decent cup of coffee in this joint.
**images were taken from Pinterest**
June 6, 2012
Look! I'm Trendy!
Or a hipster, I can never tell.
Recently, I downloaded Instagram on my phone and have been fooling around with it. If you're a fan of nonsensical photos filtered to look cool, then check out my instagram (chellemruszat -- which is also my twitter tag...I'm interesting...kinda.)
Well, I'm falling behind on this blog-war (minor setback, don't think you're going to win Kelsey) but I'm also doing a lot of planning, sketching, and filling out of forms.
In other news, I purchased my ticket to Ecuador! I was very sad (looking at my bank account) but then I realized,
I AM GOING TO FREAKIN' ECUADOR!!!
There is nothing to be sad about. Time for adventure. Time for excitement. Time to start pawning off all of my things to pay for this trip.
Recently, I downloaded Instagram on my phone and have been fooling around with it. If you're a fan of nonsensical photos filtered to look cool, then check out my instagram (chellemruszat -- which is also my twitter tag...I'm interesting...kinda.)
Well, I'm falling behind on this blog-war (minor setback, don't think you're going to win Kelsey) but I'm also doing a lot of planning, sketching, and filling out of forms.
In other news, I purchased my ticket to Ecuador! I was very sad (looking at my bank account) but then I realized,
There is nothing to be sad about. Time for adventure. Time for excitement. Time to start pawning off all of my things to pay for this trip.
June 4, 2012
I'm getting paid for this?
For the summer I'm working full-time in my school's marketing department. My task: create a new virtual tour. Easy right? Wrong. It's going to be a lot of work, but so far I'm enjoying the job. In order to do research, I went on numerous virtual tours for other schools. Word of advice for anyone ever wanting to create a virtual tour.
KEEP YOUR VIDEOS UNDER TWO MINUTES!
Seriously, it's obnoxious to have to watch a stroll of campus for over three minutes. After viewing over twenty schools, which look almost the same (Old Main, cafeteria, dorms, classrooms, etc. I mean, every school has these elements. No joke) I shut down after two minutes.
Today I'm working on staging a photo-shoot of dorm rooms. so, I'm surfing the internets to find dorm room inspiration and trying to remember what I have in Duluth and what is packed in boxes at home.
I created a board on Pinterest (seriously, they should sponsor me...) if you want to see my ideas and inspiration for the female's version of a dorm.
Soon I am going to try to create my own logo and make this a fancy-schmancy blog, but first I should get back to work.
Seriously, it's obnoxious to have to watch a stroll of campus for over three minutes. After viewing over twenty schools, which look almost the same (Old Main, cafeteria, dorms, classrooms, etc. I mean, every school has these elements. No joke) I shut down after two minutes.
Today I'm working on staging a photo-shoot of dorm rooms. so, I'm surfing the internets to find dorm room inspiration and trying to remember what I have in Duluth and what is packed in boxes at home.
I created a board on Pinterest (seriously, they should sponsor me...) if you want to see my ideas and inspiration for the female's version of a dorm.
Soon I am going to try to create my own logo and make this a fancy-schmancy blog, but first I should get back to work.
June 3, 2012
Sleepy sleepy
All day I've had a wicked headache. Nothing has worked (medicine, caffeine, water, chocolate!) and wearing a headset for the play tonight caused a bit of displeasure on this end. I couldn't get those good-for-nothin' actors to whisper their lines either. Jerks. Overall, it was a fantastic show tonight (besides the dull throbbing going on in my brain.) I'll post some pics I took on instagram (I'm a super cool fake-photographer now!) when it's not 2am and I have the energy to find my phone.
I went to bed at 11pm and woke up at 1:30am. Yea, not the recommended eight hours I was expecting. So now I'm browsing the blogs I always read and wasting my time on Pinterest. I love Pinterest. Kelsey did a shout-out to stumble upon, but she's wrong. Pinterest is, and will always be, the best way to waste hours of time. So now I'm finding awesome DIY projects, recipes, and clothing I can't afford. If you'd like, you can follow me on Pinterest! Click the button on the right-side of my blog! It's that simple. I'm an awesome pinner, so you'll regret nothing.
I went to bed at 11pm and woke up at 1:30am. Yea, not the recommended eight hours I was expecting. So now I'm browsing the blogs I always read and wasting my time on Pinterest. I love Pinterest. Kelsey did a shout-out to stumble upon, but she's wrong. Pinterest is, and will always be, the best way to waste hours of time. So now I'm finding awesome DIY projects, recipes, and clothing I can't afford. If you'd like, you can follow me on Pinterest! Click the button on the right-side of my blog! It's that simple. I'm an awesome pinner, so you'll regret nothing.
June 1, 2012
This Week in Michelle
A lot of super-cool blogs do something like this, so I'm going to list what's been up for the week and become super-cool.
King Charles
His EP was constantly on repeat in my car, on my laptop, and my iPod. Now he as a new album! The best song is "The Brightest Lights" (I'm currently listening to it! So good! And, it features Mumford & Sons! Triple eep!) Check it out on Myspace (I can't believe that site still exists.)
Being Curious
I'm trying to figure things out with my life. Apparently I'm at that point where I should start doing that. No fun. So, I'm doing research, listing options, having tremendous daydreams, and trying to learn anything and everything.
FINALLY submitting my passport forms
It was a headache. Let's leave it at that.
and of course...
The Royal Family
Opening night went beautifully and I'm super excited to be apart of this show.
King Charles
His EP was constantly on repeat in my car, on my laptop, and my iPod. Now he as a new album! The best song is "The Brightest Lights" (I'm currently listening to it! So good! And, it features Mumford & Sons! Triple eep!) Check it out on Myspace (I can't believe that site still exists.)
Being Curious
I'm trying to figure things out with my life. Apparently I'm at that point where I should start doing that. No fun. So, I'm doing research, listing options, having tremendous daydreams, and trying to learn anything and everything.
FINALLY submitting my passport forms
It was a headache. Let's leave it at that.
and of course...
The Royal Family
Opening night went beautifully and I'm super excited to be apart of this show.
May 31, 2012
Standby for Great Theater...Great Theater Standing-by
At 7 p.m. I'll be donning my headset, calling places, and standing-by for my cue.
All the hours or practice, line notes, making enormous sandwiches, running scenes, and then re-running scenes are about to be put to the test! So broken legs to the wonderful cast and (my favorite people, but then I am biased) crew.
If you'd like to laugh 'til you cry then cry 'til you laugh, check out The Duluth Playhouse to see show dates, times, and buy tickets!
May 30, 2012
We're going down to alphabet street.
My parents have given me so many fantastic gifts in my life. Perhaps my absolute favorite would have to be my car.
It's a 1999 purple Dodge Stratus. His name is Prince Rogers Nelson
See what I did there?!
Well, I thought I was clever.
During my recent drive back to Duluth, Prince (my car, not the Artist-formerly-and-now-again-known-as-Prince) celebrated a cool milestone.
That's right. Prince reached 123,456 miles! I'm praying he decides to hold on until after I graduate to go into retirement at a lake home in Chanhassen.
It's a 1999 purple Dodge Stratus. His name is Prince Rogers Nelson
Well, I thought I was clever.
During my recent drive back to Duluth, Prince (my car, not the Artist-formerly-and-now-again-known-as-Prince) celebrated a cool milestone.
That's right. Prince reached 123,456 miles! I'm praying he decides to hold on until after I graduate to go into retirement at a lake home in Chanhassen.
May 29, 2012
You Betcha I'm from Minnesooota.
So, I'm going to talk about the weather.
It's freakin' nuts!
So far we've had down-pouring rain, sun, wind, hail, and cartoon-looking clouds. And that was just the last ten minutes! There is a lot of truth to the saying,
"Don't like the weather? Wait five minutes!"
Even with this craziness, I still love the land of 10,000 lakes. Even though we are the ridicule of many other states (Yes, I am shooting you a dirty look, Abele) it's just because they are jealous. City Pages agrees with me and published 50 reasons why Minnesota is the best state EVER! (we are also super hipster, apparently)
So far we've had down-pouring rain, sun, wind, hail, and cartoon-looking clouds. And that was just the last ten minutes! There is a lot of truth to the saying,
Even with this craziness, I still love the land of 10,000 lakes. Even though we are the ridicule of many other states (Yes, I am shooting you a dirty look, Abele) it's just because they are jealous. City Pages agrees with me and published 50 reasons why Minnesota is the best state EVER! (we are also super hipster, apparently)
May 27, 2012
A friend knows you, and still loves you just the same.
I have been blessed with so many beautiful people in my life. There are six fantastic women who, if they were not in my life from second grade to now, I would probably be that odd kid who collects various belly button lints to make murals with whilst muttering to myself. Yea, they are that important to me.
After high school I had no idea how we would all stay close, but thanks to the internet and visits home I still feel connected to these lovely ladies. Changes happen, but we still love and accept each other for our uniquely wonderful selves.
Yesterday night a few of us spent some time indulging on junk food, catching up on life during the school year, talking about the future, and laughing. There's always so much laughing.
Do you want to know why I know these girls will be my friends to the end? Well, I'll tell ya.
But first, a quick side note (that is relevant, trust me.) I have a condition called retained femoral anteversion in my right hip. It means I don't walk in the "normal" sense seeing as my hips don't fully rotate. Yea, it's strange, I'm strange, whatever. I'm just a bit pokey when it comes to running and walking.
Back to the story...
We were creating a strategy in case of a zombie-Apocalypse and, because of my hip, I offered myself as a sacrifice. In my mind, they have a chance for a long, fulfilling life if I slow down the hoards of brain-munching un-dead. Instead of readily agreeing to my plan, another was formulated which involves placing conveniently located motor scooters for me to ride and/or riding upon the back of our dear friend, Emmy. (Oh, Emmy if you are reading this post, yea we decided this...without you...sorry)
I love these ladies and it's going to be strange not living in the same city. But, that just means we must have traveling adventures instead!
Yes, we are all dressed up for the final Harry Potter movie premier.
After high school I had no idea how we would all stay close, but thanks to the internet and visits home I still feel connected to these lovely ladies. Changes happen, but we still love and accept each other for our uniquely wonderful selves.
Yesterday night a few of us spent some time indulging on junk food, catching up on life during the school year, talking about the future, and laughing. There's always so much laughing.
Do you want to know why I know these girls will be my friends to the end? Well, I'll tell ya.
But first, a quick side note (that is relevant, trust me.) I have a condition called retained femoral anteversion in my right hip. It means I don't walk in the "normal" sense seeing as my hips don't fully rotate. Yea, it's strange, I'm strange, whatever. I'm just a bit pokey when it comes to running and walking.
Back to the story...
We were creating a strategy in case of a zombie-Apocalypse and, because of my hip, I offered myself as a sacrifice. In my mind, they have a chance for a long, fulfilling life if I slow down the hoards of brain-munching un-dead. Instead of readily agreeing to my plan, another was formulated which involves placing conveniently located motor scooters for me to ride and/or riding upon the back of our dear friend, Emmy. (Oh, Emmy if you are reading this post, yea we decided this...without you...sorry)
I love these ladies and it's going to be strange not living in the same city. But, that just means we must have traveling adventures instead!
Yes, we are all dressed up for the final Harry Potter movie premier.
May 26, 2012
It's about dancing in the rain.
For the past few days it was down-pouring in Duluth. The bright side in this cloudy situation was I wore my trench coat and looked like a detective, which is always a good thing. Always. Then as I traveled south for a home visit, the rain followed me. It's a good thing I love rainy days. Weather like this is sort of a free-pass to play chill music, wear comfy clothing, grab a cup of coffee, and just be lazy. Check, check, check, and check.
Currently I'm listening to this playlist from 8tracks.com
Feel free to stay a while on my page and listen! I don't mind, really.
Mom made me a delicious iced coffee, which thankfully has a straw in the glass allowing me to type and drink at the same time. Impressed? I would be. Her iced coffees always turn out better than the ones I try to make. According to Mom, I do everything right, yet I have a feeling she adds a secret ingredient, like blood of a unicorn, to make it so delicious (and give powers of immortality!)
Here are the incredibly easy steps to Mom's perfect iced coffees:
1. Brew a large pot of strong coffee. (We prefer the caramel-flavored stuff, but only for iced coffee. I think flavored coffee is disgusting when it's warm)
2. Allow said coffee to cool to room temperature.
3. Pour coffee over a glass filled with ice. (This ice is going to melt, so you will want a lot of it. First, it waters down the extra-strong coffee, and second, it makes the iced part of the iced coffee.)
4. Add a shot of flavored syrup (I suggest caramel if you decided to go with the caramel coffee), some flavored (or not) creamer (again, caramel is delicious), and unicorn blood (just kidding...not really)
5. Stir, sip, and enjoy
So my mom says it's not unicorn blood, but mother's love. Sure...
Currently I'm listening to this playlist from 8tracks.com
Feel free to stay a while on my page and listen! I don't mind, really.
Mom made me a delicious iced coffee, which thankfully has a straw in the glass allowing me to type and drink at the same time. Impressed? I would be. Her iced coffees always turn out better than the ones I try to make. According to Mom, I do everything right, yet I have a feeling she adds a secret ingredient, like blood of a unicorn, to make it so delicious (and give powers of immortality!)
Here are the incredibly easy steps to Mom's perfect iced coffees:
1. Brew a large pot of strong coffee. (We prefer the caramel-flavored stuff, but only for iced coffee. I think flavored coffee is disgusting when it's warm)
2. Allow said coffee to cool to room temperature.
3. Pour coffee over a glass filled with ice. (This ice is going to melt, so you will want a lot of it. First, it waters down the extra-strong coffee, and second, it makes the iced part of the iced coffee.)
4. Add a shot of flavored syrup (I suggest caramel if you decided to go with the caramel coffee), some flavored (or not) creamer (again, caramel is delicious), and unicorn blood (just kidding...not really)
5. Stir, sip, and enjoy
So my mom says it's not unicorn blood, but mother's love. Sure...
May 25, 2012
Sometimes I wish I was Shakira.
I mean, honestly, wouldn't you want to be able to dance like that? Or be able to call up Rafael Nadal to handsomely pose in a music video? Plus, I wouldn't have to stress over sounding like such a gringa when I speak Spanish.
WORD.
Yesterday I needed to relax. Currently I'm working an eight to four job and assistant stage managing a local production called The Royal Family. Needless to say I am a bit swamped. So I headed through the down-pouring rain to Barnes & Noble.
Bookstores are my secret retreat. Everything about them calms me. The blend of hushed conversations, coffee smells, and endless opportunities for getting lost in a story work perfectly together. I ended up spending far more money than I care to admit, but, in my mind, it was worth it. Being a mild magazine junkie, I picked up three travel magazines and the latest edition of Lapham's Quarterly.
I have never read LQ before, but according to its website, every three months a new issue is released full of historical documents, pictures, data, etc. related to a specific theme. The Spring 2012 theme is "Means of Communication." How perfect! Communication major Michelle GEEKED OUT! My eyes were bulging with wonder, hands rapidly flipping through the pages, I may have even squeaked. The copy I initially picked up had a disgusting mystery smudge on the cover, so I exchanged it for one with the white cover in pristine condition. If I had discovered LQ the same time I went to the Newseum, my head would have imploded with joy.
I also picked up a new cookbook titled The BrokeAss Gourmet. Every recipe looks incredible and I can't wait until I have some time to look at the book (perhaps I'll try a few recipes as well!)
Words are incredibly intriguing. It is mind-boggling to me how many different languages there are and the various means people use to communicate. One of my favorite communication quotes (yes, I do have more than one) is from Emperor Charles V,
I speak Spanish to God, Italian to women, French to men, and German to my horse.
Our words constantly change, morph, and adapt.
Recently, I discovered popsicle should actually be Popsicle because it is a brand. The true name is an ice pop (thank you Wikipedia) and Popsicle became a generic trademark after its surge in popularity. Of course I had to do more research on generic trademarks, which lead me to click on a page about metonymy, and, eventually, I ended up reading about heroin on Wikipedia. How I got there, I have no idea, but I did discover that heroin was originally owned and branded by Bayer.
Bookstores are my secret retreat. Everything about them calms me. The blend of hushed conversations, coffee smells, and endless opportunities for getting lost in a story work perfectly together. I ended up spending far more money than I care to admit, but, in my mind, it was worth it. Being a mild magazine junkie, I picked up three travel magazines and the latest edition of Lapham's Quarterly.
I have never read LQ before, but according to its website, every three months a new issue is released full of historical documents, pictures, data, etc. related to a specific theme. The Spring 2012 theme is "Means of Communication." How perfect! Communication major Michelle GEEKED OUT! My eyes were bulging with wonder, hands rapidly flipping through the pages, I may have even squeaked. The copy I initially picked up had a disgusting mystery smudge on the cover, so I exchanged it for one with the white cover in pristine condition. If I had discovered LQ the same time I went to the Newseum, my head would have imploded with joy.
I also picked up a new cookbook titled The BrokeAss Gourmet. Every recipe looks incredible and I can't wait until I have some time to look at the book (perhaps I'll try a few recipes as well!)
Words are incredibly intriguing. It is mind-boggling to me how many different languages there are and the various means people use to communicate. One of my favorite communication quotes (yes, I do have more than one) is from Emperor Charles V,
Our words constantly change, morph, and adapt.
Recently, I discovered popsicle should actually be Popsicle because it is a brand. The true name is an ice pop (thank you Wikipedia) and Popsicle became a generic trademark after its surge in popularity. Of course I had to do more research on generic trademarks, which lead me to click on a page about metonymy, and, eventually, I ended up reading about heroin on Wikipedia. How I got there, I have no idea, but I did discover that heroin was originally owned and branded by Bayer.
May 24, 2012
Everybody was Kung-fu Blogging--HI-YAH
New design, new content, but still the same Michelle.
So, you may or may not have noticed how on top of my blogging game I've been lately. And by "on top of my blogging game" I mean I have been terrible at trying new recipes and documenting the process. Absolutely horrible. I still eat and sometimes I cook, but nothing worth a new post. Unless you really wanted to hear about me purchasing a #13 from Jimmy John's for the past couple of days, then I apologize.
From now on this isn't going to be solely a food blog. I'm traveling soon and would like to document all of my fun adventures! Plus, I'm spending my first summer away from home in a wonderful city that I love. Just a Chef's Daughter is now going to be full of adventures, fun stories, and occasionally some recipes.
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
Actually, this news is fairly relevant.
Remember my darling friend, Kelsey?
Besides being an excellent Viking explorer, she is the author of a smart, entertaining, and all-around beautiful blog which can be found here: Ramblings of a Hypothetical Giant. Too bad I'm about to beat her blog into a bloggy pulp.
That's right, folks. We're having a blog-off. Her latest post is relevant to my culinary pursuits, so I'm (attempting) to do a witty-styled update a la Kelsey. Hopefully this battle will encourage us both to write and perhaps communicate more with each other. Crazy, I know, but it just might work!
So, you may or may not have noticed how on top of my blogging game I've been lately. And by "on top of my blogging game" I mean I have been terrible at trying new recipes and documenting the process. Absolutely horrible. I still eat and sometimes I cook, but nothing worth a new post. Unless you really wanted to hear about me purchasing a #13 from Jimmy John's for the past couple of days, then I apologize.
From now on this isn't going to be solely a food blog. I'm traveling soon and would like to document all of my fun adventures! Plus, I'm spending my first summer away from home in a wonderful city that I love. Just a Chef's Daughter is now going to be full of adventures, fun stories, and occasionally some recipes.
Remember my darling friend, Kelsey?
Besides being an excellent Viking explorer, she is the author of a smart, entertaining, and all-around beautiful blog which can be found here: Ramblings of a Hypothetical Giant. Too bad I'm about to beat her blog into a bloggy pulp.
That's right, folks. We're having a blog-off. Her latest post is relevant to my culinary pursuits, so I'm (attempting) to do a witty-styled update a la Kelsey. Hopefully this battle will encourage us both to write and perhaps communicate more with each other. Crazy, I know, but it just might work!
March 24, 2012
Remember me?
What's up culinary world! (or in reality, the people I tell to read my blog)
You know, and hopefully love, me as "just a chef's daughter" and I have some exciting news for you! The "chef" himself created a blog!. He actually has time and the skills to keep up a food blog.
Note: there are a lot of nerd references in it, because he's a nerd. (Love you Dad!)
I highly recommend it to you, my lovely reader, because well, he's my dad, and also because I think he is one of the greatest, most over-worked, and under-appreciated chefs in central Minnesota.
Here is his blog ya'll: subscribe, follow, stalk, whatever, just visit please.
A Chef's Musings
You know, and hopefully love, me as "just a chef's daughter" and I have some exciting news for you! The "chef" himself created a blog!. He actually has time and the skills to keep up a food blog.
Note: there are a lot of nerd references in it, because he's a nerd. (Love you Dad!)
I highly recommend it to you, my lovely reader, because well, he's my dad, and also because I think he is one of the greatest, most over-worked, and under-appreciated chefs in central Minnesota.
Here is his blog ya'll: subscribe, follow, stalk, whatever, just visit please.
A Chef's Musings
January 30, 2012
I was unsupervised in the kitchen...
Due to the insane amount of homework, I decided to blow off my reading and bake instead.
I found this beautiful recipe in Cookin' for Trouble by Bitchin' Kitchen and immediately wanted to eat it. But, I would have to make it first.
no-bake cream cheese peanut butter pie
Grocery List
1 1/4 cups salted pretzels (this is necessary for the crust)
3/4 cup dark brown sugar (1/4 is used for the crust)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (also for crust)
1/2 cup cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
2 cups heavy cream
6 oz semi-sweet dark chocolate finely chopped
-crushed peanuts (optional)
Gear
food processor (haha, right)
9" round pie plate
2 medium mixing bowls
electric hand mixer (we'll get to that later...)
medium saucepan
Now, the first thing to do is make the crust, but that also requires a food processor, which I don't have. Instead, I bought a graham cracker crust fully aware it wouldn't be nearly as delicious. And with this disclaimer...
Pretzel Crust
Put the salted pretzels in a food processor and pulse until fine. In a large bowl mix together the pretzel crumbs, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and the melted butter. Press the crust mixture into the pie plate. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
*If you do have a food processor I would suggest making this crust. The filling is really sweet (and DELICIOUS) and some saltiness would be perfect. A rolling pin, or heavy text book could also work to smash the little pretzels into smithereens!! I'm just lazy.
Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and peanut butter, and whip until smooth using a hand mixer. (Trust me, find a hand mixer. It's doable without one, but your arm will get incredibly sore. Plus side, I can skip going to the gym because my arm is ripped.) In another medium bowl whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of brown sugar until stiff peaks form (I had no idea what this meant. Honestly, I still don't know what it means. Just mix for a while until all is mixed.)
Delicately fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. (Remember when I said my arm became jacked do to the intense mixing I just did. That makes "delicate folding" a "bit of a problem")
Yea, that happened. Gross, right?!
Spoon the filling into the pie shell and refrigerate for 1 hour. (Everything worked out splendidly, just remember be gentle!)
Chocolate Whipped Cream
Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a medium saucepan just until bubbles form around the edges; don't let it boil. Remove from the heat. Add the chopped chocolate, and whisk until melted. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
(You're a bit impressed right now, eh?! Yea, I did all of this SUCCESSFULLY!)
Shkiaffing it Together *Shkiaffing is a word known to Bitchin' Kitchen fans. If you're not a fan, Ma please! Get on that. It's worth it.
Once the chocolate cream is cool, whip until thick. Slather the pie with the chocolate whipped cream, and garnish with the crushed peanuts (optional) (I used crushed pretzels my roommate Leah was kind enough to pick up from a gas station. I crushed the little buggers with my political philosophy textbook, but I'm sure any textbook would work just as well, you may just lose the angst-y flavor). Refrigerate for 3 hours to set. (This is the longest three hours of your life. Seriously.)
This is a wonderfully delicious pie. I am so gosh darn impressed with myself.
Now go, eat, and be merry!
--Michelle
I found this beautiful recipe in Cookin' for Trouble by Bitchin' Kitchen and immediately wanted to eat it. But, I would have to make it first.
no-bake cream cheese peanut butter pie
Grocery List
1 1/4 cups salted pretzels (this is necessary for the crust)
3/4 cup dark brown sugar (1/4 is used for the crust)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (also for crust)
1/2 cup cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
2 cups heavy cream
6 oz semi-sweet dark chocolate finely chopped
-crushed peanuts (optional)
Gear
food processor (haha, right)
9" round pie plate
2 medium mixing bowls
electric hand mixer (we'll get to that later...)
medium saucepan
Now, the first thing to do is make the crust, but that also requires a food processor, which I don't have. Instead, I bought a graham cracker crust fully aware it wouldn't be nearly as delicious. And with this disclaimer...
Pretzel Crust
Put the salted pretzels in a food processor and pulse until fine. In a large bowl mix together the pretzel crumbs, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and the melted butter. Press the crust mixture into the pie plate. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
*If you do have a food processor I would suggest making this crust. The filling is really sweet (and DELICIOUS) and some saltiness would be perfect. A rolling pin, or heavy text book could also work to smash the little pretzels into smithereens!! I'm just lazy.
Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and peanut butter, and whip until smooth using a hand mixer. (Trust me, find a hand mixer. It's doable without one, but your arm will get incredibly sore. Plus side, I can skip going to the gym because my arm is ripped.) In another medium bowl whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of brown sugar until stiff peaks form (I had no idea what this meant. Honestly, I still don't know what it means. Just mix for a while until all is mixed.)
Delicately fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. (Remember when I said my arm became jacked do to the intense mixing I just did. That makes "delicate folding" a "bit of a problem")
Yea, that happened. Gross, right?!
Spoon the filling into the pie shell and refrigerate for 1 hour. (Everything worked out splendidly, just remember be gentle!)
Chocolate Whipped Cream
Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a medium saucepan just until bubbles form around the edges; don't let it boil. Remove from the heat. Add the chopped chocolate, and whisk until melted. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
(You're a bit impressed right now, eh?! Yea, I did all of this SUCCESSFULLY!)
Shkiaffing it Together *Shkiaffing is a word known to Bitchin' Kitchen fans. If you're not a fan, Ma please! Get on that. It's worth it.
Once the chocolate cream is cool, whip until thick. Slather the pie with the chocolate whipped cream, and garnish with the crushed peanuts (optional) (I used crushed pretzels my roommate Leah was kind enough to pick up from a gas station. I crushed the little buggers with my political philosophy textbook, but I'm sure any textbook would work just as well, you may just lose the angst-y flavor). Refrigerate for 3 hours to set. (This is the longest three hours of your life. Seriously.)
This is a wonderfully delicious pie. I am so gosh darn impressed with myself.
Now go, eat, and be merry!
--Michelle
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)