Lofty Ideas

Brussels!

2010-09-01T12:52:00.000-07:00

Our second and final stop of our little getaway was to Brussels, Belgium. We only stayed a few nights here because there isn't a ton to see in Brussels. To tell you the truth, we mainly went for the beer which OF COURSE was phenomenal. We spent our three days just wandering the streets, drinking, eating, and people watching. It was a fabulous time spent with my fabulous husband!

This is a view of Brussel's "restaurant row" or Rue des Bouchers.  We had mussels at this meal, and the mussels I make at home are way better ;)

This is me (and Johnny in the reflection) at a bar (or cafe as they are called there) named La Fleur en Papier Doré.  We saw this in a write on Brussels that appeared in Bon Appetit magazine and we just had to try it. The cafe dates back to 1846 and I had the most delicious lambic I have ever tasted!

Speaking of delicous beer, here is a tasting we did of 5 beers at another cafe.  I couldn't tell you what each of these were, but I can tell you that one was a Kriek that blew my mind.  I can also tell you that I did not have one crappy beer in Brussels.

Surprisingly, this is one of Brussels' biggest tourist attractions, The Manneken Pis.  It is exactly how you see it, a statue of a little boy pissing into a fountain.  It has a weird and strange history that you can read about here.

This is a view of the Grand Place, the main city square in Brussels. Some say it is the most beautiful in all of Europe. It is certainly up there with some of the most magnificent things I have ever seen.

This European adventure was an absolutely fabulous experience for us, and we can't wait to get there again soon. In fact, we are already planning and dreaming of Spain in two years. :) I think during the course of our adventure we both discovered how much we love to travel and will make this a priority in our marriage for years to come.

London!

2010-08-25T10:52:00.001-07:00

Johnny and I have just recently returned from a much needed escape. Our destinations included London, UK and Brussels, Belgium. This was John's first trip overseas and my second. We had an absolutely amazing time!

While I could blab blab blab about all the fun stuff we did, I will keep it to some of my most favorite memories. Here's a London recap:

Pubs: We conquered many a pub during our stay in London. One of my favorite memories was our first night there, when we befriended two Irishmen who proceeded to get us totally sloshed. They keep buying us drinks because they reasoned, "it's not every day you run into a couple of yanks at a pub, our treat!" We had a fabulous time with them, despite the fact I could only catch about 10% of what they said and drank about five too many beers. What a great way to start the trip!

While most people agree that the food in the UK sucks, I assure you, it does not if you just know what to order. We stuck to mostly pub food, and most everything was delish! Take this proper English lunch we had in Shepard's Market, Mayfair, London:

(Front: Steak and Ale Pie, Mash, Peas. Back: Fish and Chips.)

Fifteen: Our major "splurge"dinner out while we were in London was at Fifteen, Jamie Oliver's (swoooon) London restaurant. This is a truly unique dining expirience that I would highly recommend for anyone traveling to London. This restaurant offers young people, who often could use a break in life and may not have many options when it comes to their future, apprenticeships to learn how to be chefs. They then go off to work at top restaurants all over the world. A fabulous cause, and a seriously delicious dinner.

Site-seeing: We seriously pounded the pavement sightseeing in London. We saw Westminster Abbey, National Gallery, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Tate Modern...just to name a few! We learned the underground system very well and were able to travel everywhere with no problem. In fact, we had a laugh when a couple of Brits asked us for directions in the Underground, I guess we looked like we knew what we were doing!

(Westminster Abbey)

(Guard, Tower of London)

(Me, in the Buckingham Palace gardens)

Buckingham Palace was a definite highlight for me as they only open the palace up for tours for a short time in the summer. I had seen most of the other sites on a school trip when I was young. It was so amazing to see a working palace...Johnny and I had a chuckle because there was a glass ring stain on one of the priceless tables...most likely from a party held at the palace.

London was amazing, and after five nights we moved on to Brussels, Belgium. More on that to come!

This Summer I Have...

2010-08-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

Survived 30 days without drinking, and actually managed to enjoy it.
Spent a lot of quality time with friends...sittin' outside, shootin' the bull. :)
Been dreaming of my upcoming European vacation with my husband. swoooon.
Attended many Cubs games. Despite their terrible record this season, sitting in the sun at Wrigley is still glorious.
Faced my fears and started riding my bike in the city. With a very sturdy helmet.
Tried to enjoy every second.

30 Days Sober

2010-06-28T08:04:00.001-07:00

Sometime last week, my husband was complaining about his (non-existent) belly flab. (seriously, he has none). He says he just can't seem to run it off, so he thought he would try not drinking alcohol for 30 days to see if that helped. So I agreed to do it with him, because I need MORE than a little help in the belly flab department and I was also curious as to what this would do to our wallets.

It's not that we were out partying every night by any means, but we are twenty somethings, and that means many of the social activities that we take part in revolve around alcohol. We are also people who like to have a few drinks after work to relax, and pretty soon you are drinking 4 nights a week. I thought a break from that lifestyle would do us both some good, wallet and body.

Yesterday was the one week mark. I have to say, totally not as bad as I thought it was going to be. We even survived a backyard BBQ on a hot summer afternoon drink free. And let me tell you, nothing calls to me more than the hot sun, a lawn chair, hot dogs on the grill, and COLD BEER. So we went for a few hours, left early, got some work done on the house, watched a movie, and called it an early night. This also made for a productive Sunday as we weren't hung over and were able to get up early and head to Ikea to spend all of the money we are saving by not drinking. :)

Overall, I think this little experiment will not only encourage us to be a bit more healthy, but will also curb the amount we drink overall, after the 30 days. And honestly, not waking up with a headache this weekend was glorious.

Rockin the Squeeze Box

2010-06-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

Let me start this post by laying it all out on the table. My husband John plays the accordion. Feel free to laugh, because it's a little hilarious. Let me say, also, that the kid has played the piano for 20 years so this was a natural progression. When he asked for an accordion last year for his 25th birthday, I just couldn't say no. Nonetheless, it is kind of hilarious.

He has been taking lessons at Chicago's Old Tow n School of Folk Music, which is a pretty bad ass venue in Chicago that offers all kinds of unique music and dance lessons. Last weekend, the "Accordion II Group" had their recital. It was a "surfs up" themed recital complete with psychedelic go-go dancers (also students at the Old Town School), at one of Chicago's most loved live music venues, The Empty Bottle.

Let's break this down: 6 accordion players---playing 50's and 60's surf tunes---at a bar---with live go-go dancers...at 2pm on a Sunday.

Needless to say, it was the strangest and most fun afternoon I have had in awhile. All I have are crappy phone pictures, but enjoy!

My Husband is the one sitting on the end in the white pants. Surfs Up!

The guy in the orange shirt is DEFINITELY a go-go dancing DUDE. I give him props for that.

The Energizer Bunny

2010-05-27T08:20:00.000-07:00

Modern Medicine is truly amazing. This week my ailing father, after a quadrupole by-pass and years of heart failure, received a pace maker. He said he hasn't felt this good since the 90's. And that was post-op. The fact that we can keep someone's heart beating with just a little battery powered device inserted into the chest is something I can't even wrap my brain around.

(my Dad giving me away)

Having a sick parent is hard, I am sure some of you can relate to this. As much as we worry about him, I think this will be a step in the right direction to getting him feeling better and with more energy. I have missed the man my Dad was before the heart problems, and am looking forward to getting a little piece of him back, now that he has a little "jump start."

Hello Orlando!

2010-05-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning, I will be taking off to Orlando on...I can't even believe it...a BUSINESS TRIP. That's right, my first big girl business trip. I am excited & nervous, I can't decide what to wear and what to pack...it's like the first day of school you guys!

It's apparently 90 something degrees in Orlando right now, so I wonder what working women wear when it gets that hot. Certainly not a suit...perhaps a sleeveless dress would be appropriate? I have no idea. Working women of Florida, if you're out there, help a sister out!

The actual event is Saturday through Wednesday, but I will be staying through the weekend with family in Naples. Bonus: Johnny is flying down on Wednesday. I am seriously looking forward to this as we could both use a little R&R.

I splurged on an adorable swimsuit from Modcloth.com for this summer and I am actually excited to wear a swimsuit for the first time in a LONG time:I am thinking I should rock this with some red framed shades and a floppy hat. Meow! And if you are not familiar with Modcloth, it is seriously beyond adorable. Great dresses.

PS--Chicago, if you could magically switch over to summer by the time I come back, I would really appreciate it. Thanks love you bye!

The Graduate

2010-04-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

Oh hello world.

Oh hello spring.

I have come out of my winter hibernation and I feel refreshed. Next week I will be receiving my Master of Public Administration degree. I am actually shocked that I finished. My classes ended last December and I have been working full time since then, yet I managed to finish my Capstone Paper (like a thesis, less threatening) and pass the Comprehensive Exam to receive my diploma. So now THAT CRAP is over.

I honestly feel a little lost. Since I have finished my paper, I have gone into this Sunday night panic where I feel as if I have homework. 20 years of straight school will do that to a person.
People ask me all the time if I plan to participate in the ceremony. I answer, well hell yes. And here is why:

People throw a big effing party and get all crazed when you graduate high school. Why? I mean, at least where I went to school, you had to TRY to not graduate. And then you graduate college, and people care a lot less about that, which is ass-backwards. In fact many students choose not to attend the ceremony.

Now, I am graduating with a Masters degree. I think it's kind of a big deal. I worked pretty hard for that. It was in no way fun like undergrad was. There is no laying in someone's lawn hung over on a Friday morning. No beer bongs, keggers, no skipping class to play outside on nice days. No no, there was only research, studying, and writing. Lots and lots of writing. So, that is why I will
participate in commencement. I will walk across that stage with a shit-eating grin on my face and say, "Hello world. I survived grad school."

Re-Do

2010-01-13T07:37:00.000-08:00

I have the winter blues, man.

Like, I feel sad when I don't have cool plans.

And, all of my clothes in my closet are staring back and laughing at me.

Also, I read blogs but can't muster up a comment.

Additionally, I have meltdowns where I laugh at myself for being ridiculous, and then laughter turns to tears. And then my husband gives me funny looks.

So I have decided that redecorating our bedroom is a good way to pull me out of my funk and I think it is actually working. We rearranged, bought some new accessories, and I have some new bedding on the way. I have a purple and gray theme going on that I think is going to be calming and sexy. Before, our bedroom wasn't really a finished room...it was more of just a collection of crap that didn't go anywhere else in the house.

What about you guys, do you ever get in a "winter funk?" What do you do to pull yourself out?

Best of 2009: Album of the Year

2009-12-10T07:04:00.000-08:00

December 10 Album of the year. What's rocking your world?

The album that rocked my world this year actually came out in 2005, but I am just now discovering the awesomeness of Sufjan Stevens. His album Come on Feel the Illinoise was the first album I heard of his, and I think I listened to it non-stop for several months. I am in no way, shape, or form a reviewer of music, so i will let the words of Amanda Petrusich of Pitchfork.com do it for me:

"The best travel writers skew their journeys into pointed narratives, writing the story of the landscape by seizing all the weird, awkward bits that make it distinct. Sufjan Stevens' latest installment of state-based chamber-folk, Illinois...validate East Coast stereotypes of tough Midwestern values: This is earnest, hard-working music, morally rooted and technically precise."

After hearing some of his other albums, he has fastly become one of my favorite artists, and I currently have his Songs for Christmas on rotation in my house. :)

Best of 2009: Article

2009-12-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

So I decided to hop on the Best of 2009 Blog Challenge brought to you by Gwen Bell. I thought this was a great challenge for me because I have been away from the blogging world for quite awhile as I got kidnapped by grad school (see how I like to blame someone else for my misery when it was indeed myself who decided to obtain a master's degree??) and this would be a good way to get back into the swing of things. Without further ado....

December 3 Article. What's an article that you read that blew you away? That you shared with all your friends. That you Delicious'd and reference throughout the year.

"Bob Waldmire’s farewell tour: The artist and his love affair with the Mother Ro ad"

The article that blew me away this year was actually something that I read rather recently. As part of my job, I work with the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway organization that works to preserve the "kitschy" nature and the history behind the Mother Road. Bob Waldmire is a man who has dedicated most of his life to the preservation of Route 66. Before I read this article, I didn't really get why people were so obsessed with Route 66, but now I do. And for those of you who have seen the move Disney movie Cars, the VW Bus character was based off of this man.

I guess the neat thing about Route 66 as a whole is not just historic preservation, but the preservation and remembrance of American heritage. When you see some of the attractions along to the road, you are reminded of a time where drive-ins, mom and pop shops, and road side attractions equaled a family summer vacation. While I could have chosen an article that are is more important and relative to the times we are facing that I could have chosen, I just think this article is pretty darn neat. Fun Route 66 Pictures, all courtesy of illinoisroute66.org:

Wishing Well Motel, LaGrange, ILGiant Brooks Catsup Bottle Water Tower, Collinsville, IL

Launching Pad Drive in and Giant Gemini Statue, Wilmington, IL

Oh Em Gee it's Thanksgiving

2009-11-24T08:30:00.001-08:00

I am the cook in the family. I don't know how I inherited the talent, but starting in about high school I set out to learn how to cook, and I succeeded. In my life now, cooking serves as a stress reliever. In fact, John can tell when I have a paper looming or a final to study for because he will come home to either a slew of baked goods or a beautiful meal.

So...around the holidays that makes me fairly busy. My mom does the turkey and stuffing, and people usually show up with something like rolls, but I basically take care of the rest of the family favorites. We stay pretty traditional. This year on Ray's menu:

Paula Dean's Green Bean Casserole. Now, is green bean casserole something I usually would be caught dead making? No. But to many (including me) it's just not thanksgiving without it. Paula's recipe uses fresh green beans and fresh mushrooms which really liven the dish up. I forgo the cheese on top because that is just ridiculous.
My mashed potatoes. I boil Yukon golds with a few bay leaves which really adds a little something. I then mash with criminal amounts of heavy cream, butter and salt. Screw it, it's the holidays. I do not whip my potatoes ...I like texture.
Cranberry sauce. I buy a bag of fresh cranberries and boil them down with sugar, a little water, and some orange juice/zest. This year I think I will add ginger because I'm crazy that way.
Pumpkin pie. I don't mess with this too much and tend to use the recipe on the inside of the canned pumpkin. However, when it is nearly done, I go ahead and throw a mixture of brown sugar, butter, flour and pecans on top to make a crunchy topping. Because we haven't consumed enough fat yet today.

What are your holiday favorites that you just can't live without?

Relief

2009-11-18T07:15:00.000-08:00

I a writing this post with a great feeling of relief...as I have secured full time employment and classes are coming to an end in early December, for like, ever. I am so excited to be in this new position, and I really think it is going to be a blast. I will be working to promote tourism in the Chicagoland area through social media and other marketing tools which works out great for me because a.) I am a lover of social media and b.) I am a lover of Chicago.

Grad school has been a crazy and (SOMETIMES) wonderful ride, but I won't be sad to say goodbye. It is time to start living my own life with my own agenda...not an agenda that someone else sets for me. And I'm THRILLED!!

Update

2009-09-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

I have been captured by grad school. They are demanding copious amounts of research for my release. Please send in Starbucks. And Tomato Head pizza. I think I will graduate and be a useless zombie because my brain will have turned to cottage cheese...all of this time wasted.

Just because I need to waste more time, here are some of my favorite comics from http://www.phdcomics.com/. If you have ever been/thought about going to grad school, these comics are hilarious. Because there is nothing more annoying than a grad student who takes themselves too seriously.

enough to make you lose your lunch...

2009-08-18T07:38:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I love my husband so much, I just want to squeeze his face off.

But of course I couldn't do that, I would miss his face too much.

Sometimes, I find myself so busy that I forget to stop and think how lucky I am to have a partner by my side.

To help me at the laundry mat, make me lunch, tolerate cubs games with me, and love me unconditionally even though I make huge messes that I don't always clean up right away.

It's good to feel thankful.

Job? Bueller? Bueller?

2009-08-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

I don't tend to blog about work too much on here for the obvious reason that blogging about works usually = epic fail. Just go read why Dooce lost her job. But today I am breaking my little rule to bitch.

I am currently working as a graduate intern with a local government in the Chicago suburbs while I finish my master's degree. I have been here the entire time I have been in the program, plus a year while I was an undergrad which gives us a grand total of three years put in AS A FREAKING INTERN. That's right, I have been someones bitch for THAT long. This would cause most people to lose their mind. However, I have handled things quite well considering. I believe in serving your time, and I think I have done that pretty well. I have got glowing reviews and have learned a lot during my time here.

Unfortunately, as we are all well aware, the economy took a massive shit of epic proportions. This means no money in the budget to hire me on as a full time employee. Not that this is completely devastating...I would much rather work in a different community. It would be better than no job at all, however.

This also means that I am graduating into a NASTY economy. Ideally I would like to continue working in local government because this is what my degree is in, but there are literally NO JOBS. None. Not a one anywhere to even apply for, and I am not even joking. I have started applying for federal government jobs as a next choice, and those are limited as well.

Bottom line: I am just really discouraged. I have looked forward to starting my career in public service for so long and now it seems like I will never land that ideal job. I know that a large portion of America is going through the same thing, but when the effects of the struggling economy hits so close to home, it just really stings.

On Vacation I...

2009-08-10T12:48:00.001-07:00

...visited the Grand Canyon...

...chilled out poolside...

...visited the house used as "Fisher and Sons" in one of my all time favorite shows, Six Feet Under...

...and took an off roading jeep ride.

I love the wild, wild west.

Pictures are all courtesy of my sister-in-law, as my camera was on the fritz for the whole trip. She takes much better pictures than I do, anyway.

20SB Blog Carnival: Looking Back

2009-06-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

“This post is a part of 20SB’s Looking Back Blog Carnival, and Ben & Jerry’s is awarding free ice cream to lucky bloggers and readers!” No idea what I'm talking about? Click here.

The following post was written last summer when I first started blogging, my second post to be exact. I am reposting it as my entry for the Blog Carnival for two reasons:

This post is incredibly ranty, which is something I was and will always be

I STILL despise being made to wear pantyhose.

Without further ado...

Pantyhose: The Bane of My Exsistance

Why WHY WHY??

Why must I be subjected to such torture??

Who smoked crack and decided that women in the professional world should feel as though their thighs are being eaten alive by the evil nylon monster?

Why must I feel as though my legs are sausages...and pantyhose the casing?

Tomorrow is the last day at work where we are allowed to go without hosiery. That's right...starting Monday all women (and men but come on, like they care) must wear socks or pantyhose. Let me call Ethel Mertz and ask to borrow a pair...

Only Clare of Six Feet Under can express exactly how I am feeling: Click here.

Gangster Paradise?

2009-06-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that gun violence is a major problem in the City of Chicago. I just didn't ever think it would hit so close to home.

A man was shot and killed on my street last Sunday at around 3:00 a.m. after leaving an area nightclub. I was awoken a few minutes before the shooting by the sounds of screaming and yelling, and then I heard the shots. Maybe I am just inexperienced and immature, but that was most definitely the scariest moment of my life.

I got to thinking....what is it in a person that drives them to commit such an act? How does a run of the mill bar fight spill out into the street and turn into homicide? This is the second homicide that has occurred on my street since the beginning of the year that revolved around nightclubs in the area. However, I really don't think we can blame the alcohol, because there have been many nights where I have been "over served" and NEVER have I thought about killing another person. Is it anger management? Gang related? I don't know.

So what do we do? Shut down the area nightclubs? Neighborhood organizations already tried that...new nightclubs open and the same problems persist. Ban handguns? Tried that too...and so far this summer it hasn't worked to deter gun violence in the city. I think this problem runs deeper than anything I know.

I do know this: when the clubs are open, I am afraid to come home late at night. And this is NOT something I am OK with.

Sweet Summer

2009-05-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived, which means I can get back to the things I love including being lazy, drinking too much, blogging, and other general merriment. Even when I have work and school responsibilities, there is just something about summer that makes me feel so much more relaxed. The days are so much longer so I feel like I have more time to do the things I love to do.

Because my brain works best in list form, things I am looking forward to this summer.

Drinking copious amounts of beer in a bottle. Any beer in a bottle will do.
Wearing cotton summer dresses with metallic strappy sandals and obnoxiously large earrings. My summer uniform.
Weekends at my grandparents lake house fishing, swimming, and boating while pretending to be a redneck.
Our annual Fourth of July bash with friends, including beer kickball, fireworks in the park, lotza food and this year, possibly a bounce house. Yes, this is a recipe for disaster.
Summer nights spent and Ravinia with great friends and one great lover.
Finally breaking down and reading Twilight. (ONLY because I am currently out of Sookie Stackhouse books).
Driving with the windows down and the music up.
The patio at Resi's Bierstube.
True Blood Season 2.
Grilling out on the roof.
Day dreaming about all of the above in my summer class.

(grilling on the roof...summer 2008)

What are you looking forward to this summer?

She emerges, after a month long hibernation...

2009-04-30T14:48:00.000-07:00

If anyone is still out there, hi. To make a long story short, grad school+more responsibilities at work+newlywed+needing to sleep=no time for blogging. And although I haven't been the best at commenting lately, I have been reading many of your posts. :)

Finals are next week, and then sweet summer begins. I hope to have much more time to update my little space of the web-0-tubes at that point, because I really do enjoy it so much! Until then, catch me on twitter...140 characters or less seems to jive with my time demands a little better.

In closing, I will leave you with a creepy picture of myself. Why? It just seemed appropriate:

Ray Ray does New Orleans

2009-03-23T09:47:00.001-07:00

I've been a naughty blogger...I know. I left for my New Orleans road trip, and came back to ALL HELL breaking loose at work and school. So forgive me for my lack of commenting and writing. But now, I am back and better than EVER! Actually probably I will be just the same.

ANYWAY...wanna hear about my New Orleans Trip?? In a word: FABULOUS. To get sentimental here for a minute...I love my friends so much. I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to vacation with. We did so many cool things that I don't think I could summarize it all, so I will run down the highlights.

BURLESQUE: We rolled into New Orleans at about 7pm Sunday night. After we unpacked and had some drinks in the room...we headed over to a One Eyed Jacks where we saw Through the Looking Glass: The Burlesque Story of Alice in Wonderland. I had never been to a burlesque show before but I thought it was INSANELY cute and entertaining. I am a huge fan of pin-up art so the 1940's styling of these girls was adorable. This was probably one of my favorite parts of the trip.

BEIGNETS: After our first night of heavy drinking, we made a stop at the infamous Cafe du Monde, where my husband experienced a beignet FAIL:

If you have never had a beignet, it is a french doughnut that is deep fried and COVERED in powdered sugar. In another word: the perfect drunk food. You order three at a time, and there is literally a cup and a half of powdered sugar dumped on top of them. NAUGHTY. Just don't inhale, as Johnny quickly realized.

BED N' BREAKFAST: Our hotel was amazing! Place d'Armes...It was right in the heart of the French Quarter, just off Jackson Square. It was small with an old southern charm...exactly what we were looking for. The courtyard was a peaceful place to ~~recover from a hangover~~ have breakfast after a long night of drinking on Bourbon street. In the evenings we often gathered to share some cocktails before going out here, there were pretty twinkle lights on all of the trees. The pool wasn't heated, so even though the weather was perfect (around 80 degrees and sunny each day) the water was too cool to swim in.

BOURBON STREET: In a word: NUTS. You can drink on the streets and none of the bars have a cover charge. There is live music in just about every bar, and HUGE ASS BEERS TO GO. You literally order a drink "to go" meaning in a plastic cup so you can take it with you if your friends are ready to go and you aren't finished with your drink.

This drink was called a Hand Grenade:

It was utterly disgusting. It was like, kiwi-banana-rum-sugar-kool-aide. GROSS. Everyone I aw had one so I thought I needed one too...bad choice. But I drank it anyway. :) One of my favorite places we went on Bourbon Street was this bar called Old Opera House, where they had a funk band two nights we were there. I loved them, and they played Lil Wayne which is how they captured my heart:

BIG HOUSES: One lazy afternoon, we took the street car to see the Garden District. The houses are SO beautiful. This neighborhood consists of huge historic southern-style mansions with luscious gardens and plant life. While most of the areas the street car went through were amazingly gorgeous, this is also where we saw some of the remanats of Katrina. A few houses still had the infamous "X" spray painted on the front. At the top of the X were the feet of water inside of the house, usually 9-11'. The bottom of the X told how many people were found perished inside. It was a sobering expirience to witness just a very small piece of the devestation that most of us only heard about on the news.

We stayed in the street car so it was really hard to get good photos of the gorgeous houses, but here is one of the street car we took...and Johnny in his super cute vacation hat:

This brings me to my last category, which is the amazing food. Sorry...I couldn't keep up the alliteration with this one. Here is the summary of my favorites:

Emeril's. BAM! Food was amazing. Fried oysters, BBQ Short rib open faced sandwich, blueberry bread pudding. Holy shit, GOOD.
K-Pauls. Quite possibly the best meal I have ever had. More fried oysters, fried green tomatoes, blackened sole (white fish) with mash and roasted vegetables, white chocolate bread pudding.
Serio's Deli. I watched these guys on Throwdown with Bobby Flay, and I just had to go. They specialize in Muffeletta's...a deli style sandwich topped with an olive salad. mmmm...so good.
Crawfish. We got these at a street stand, and they were SO GOOD!!! If you have never had a crawfish boil, you need to.

My bestsest guy friend Jeff. Watch out ladies...he's single.

I think that is about all I can squeeze in to this post. If you ever get the chance to go to New Orleans, it is seriously the most fun I have ever had.

Stay tuned tomorrow...when Ray Ray does Memphis!

Hello, World.

2009-03-04T09:37:00.000-08:00

It seems that school has taken over my life. I have been so consumed that I have forgotten to poke my head out of my pile of textbooks in a while to say hello. My inbox is out of control, my reader is out of control...my whole LIFE is out of control.

With spring break just a few short days away, things are dying down a bit. I am leaving for New Orleans on Saturday and I have never felt like I needed a vacation more than I do right now. My best buds, a minivan, and a road trip to the Big Easy is just what I need to cure the winter blues and and ease the insane amount of stress and pressure that I am under. I plan on doing an extreme amount of consumption of all kinds. Not to worry...my liver and I will return safely. I may be blogging/tweeting from the Big Easy...hopefully pool side while enjoying the weather in the upper 70's. Be jealous.

Letter Game!

2009-02-20T13:48:00.000-08:00

After my last post, I thought I would lighten the mood around here and go with a fun Friday post.

So Mandy assigned me the letter "S" for a letter meme....where you post 10 things you love that begin with that letter. Here it goes!

1. Sushi. Oh glory, do I love sushi. I want to go to sushi land and live forever...

2. Starbucks. This is both bad for my wallet and good for my soul. London Fog Latte...let's run away together.

3. Super Mario Galaxy. This is one of the best games for the Wii. It's just so damn happy and fun! I am surprised I passed my first semester of grad school because of this game.

4. Sookie Stackhouse. A character from the southern vampire mysteries, a series by Charlaine Harris. They are the books that inspired the HBO show True Blood. And let me tell you, they are H-O-T. Like, you needa take a cold shower hot.

5. Summer. Any time now Chicago. Along with summer goes sundresses, sunshine, cool shades, and sandals. Oh, how I miss you guys.

6. Sex and the City. My all time favorite TV show on this earth. I have seen the entire series multiple times. Never challenge me in a trivia game...you will go DOWN TOWN!

7. Sufjan Stevens. Especially his album Come on Feel the Illinoise. It's groovy baby! Check it out!

8. Strawberries & Cream. OK so here's what: take some strawberries, slice 'em up and put 'em in a bowl. Take some heavy cream, whip it until it's just slightly frothy, NOT whipped cream. Sweeten with sugar, add some vanilla if you like and pour over the berries. Tell me that is not a slice of heaven. Yes, I can be very naughty when it comes to food.

9. Sycamore. My little hicks-ville home town. I love it to pieces, and I wouldn't of wanted to grow up anywhere else!

10. Steak. I am no girl when it comes to eating steak. Give me the bloodiest, juiciest biggest piece of meat you can find. I will love it. I will grill it slightly so that it is to my medium-rare standards, and I will devour it. Oh lawsie.

There you have it. Stuff I love that begins with "S" now you know just a little bit more about this freak of nature behind Lofty Ideas. (Seriously guys, I am a freak of nature. I went to the dentist and found out I only have one wisdom tooth. WHOA!)

Happy Weekend. :)

Huskie Love

2009-02-17T19:18:00.001-08:00

By the time I graduate with my Master's of Public Administration, I will have spent 6.5 years studying at Northern Illinois University. Needless to say, I am a proud alum and a dedicated graduate student. On February 14th of last year, a tragic event occurred at my school that will forever change the way I remember my alma mater. On this day last year, a gunman stepped onto my college campus and opened fire in a lecture hall, killing five of my fellow Huskies and wounding many more. Although I didn't personally know any of the five people who were taken from us that day, the pain I felt when this needless act of violence was inflicted upon our community at NIU was sharp, and lingering.

The shooting occurred in Cole Hall, where I passed through many days on my way to one building or another. This is the building where I was mesmerized as a freshman by Dr. Changnon and his world of meteorology, and where I barely passed college algebra. It was also where I took my first political science class as an undergrad that would forever change the course of academic world...as I would go on to graduate school to study this discipline. Now, my fond memories of collegiate life at NIU and in this building are tarnished with the horror that the gunman inflicted in the lecture hall that day.

In the days that followed last February 14th, we learned about the victims--how Gayle was so strong in her faith and a quiet, lovely spirit, and Daniel was a beloved fraternity brother who could cheer up a room. We learned that Catalina was an active participant at the Latino Resource Center, while Ryanne had a gift for reaching out to those who were forgotten or brushed aside by others. And there was Julianna, who served in the U.S. Army for 12 years where she served in Bosnia before coming to NIU to pursue a degree in elementary education. Students constructed make-shift memorials in snow piles on campus where friends could leaves notes and memories. Candle-light vigils were a nightly ritual for students during the week following the shooting.

The following days also brought forth an overwhelming sense of community, as we felt the love pour out from each other and the community. As you drove through DeKalb, you saw residents with signs of support in their yards, and businesses with encouraging words placed on their marquees. It is moments like these where we see that the gunman didn't win last Valentine's Day. He may have taken five lives that were beautiful and irreplaceable, but he didn't take our Huskie spirit. I only wish my fallen Huskies could have seen the love and support that abounded through their death.

As an undergrad in the NIU Huskie Marching Band, we would gather in a circle sing the Alma Mater after every home football game. After the tragedy, the words of the song never meant more to me.

Hail to thee our Alma Mater

Every shall we praise your name.

Here, we gladly lift our voices,

Thousands strong we sing your fame.

Free, Steadfast, Devoted, True,

We will always stand by you.

Let our cheers resound for Northern,

Hail, N.I.U.

Aw, shit that's cute.

2009-02-13T06:44:00.000-08:00

As of yesterday, my husband and I have been together for 8 years. We started dating on Lincoln's Birthday when we were 16...because we had that day off from school of course. He was tiny and I was...well tiny in a good way. In his defense...this picture was probably taken a few years before we started dating....

Isn't he just just precious?

On our first date, he took me to a Chinese restaurant in our home town called the China Inn. He asked me if I thought that was weird, and told me he liked that place because he went their with his family after church most Saturdays. He picked me up in his old, old, Subaru Legacy wagon which he bought at a church auction. It was a stick shift, and black as the night. I remember him apologizing for the loudness of the engine. I also remember spilling a cherry Slurpee from Burger King in it immediately after he had it detailed once.

Eight years later, we are married and living in the big city. Some things have changed...we no longer are making out on our parents' couches, and we drive a Toyota Corolla instead of a Subaru wagon. We are playing house, and working toward successful careers. Tonight, we'll go to a swanky Chicago hot spot for dinner instead of Chinese.

However, we still have just as much fun, share all the same inside jokes, and are still crazy about each other. And that's all you really need in a partner, right?

Happy Valentines Day!

Back to The Future, and a Fort

2009-02-11T18:45:00.000-08:00

So...as you can guess judging from my last post, I haven't been feeling all that hot lately. So this morning, I decided it was in my best interest to stay home. At his point, I feel so much better and I think I desperately needed today to re-coup.

On my day off, I did what any normal person would do: I constructed a cozy fort in my living room where I hung out most of the day. In this fort I watched Back to the Future Part 1 (because I most definitely watched 2 and 3 on Monday), ate Ramen Noodles, and cruised the web-o-tubes on my new lap top. Some might think that a grown ass woman building a fort in her living room = crazy. I think it = fun.

After Johnny got home, we made some cookies. We like to make old fashioned cookies from my old skool Betty Crocker cook book. Many of the recipes just feel like things Grandma used to make, and that you can't find now days. Tonight, we made orange drop cookies with walnuts. They are yummy yummy.
And to top it all off...Johnny serenaded me with his sweet piano skills...What a great day this turned out to be!

Friday, thank the heavens.

2009-02-06T09:12:00.001-08:00

Lovely Readers, this is how my week has felt:

So with, that, I'll say Happy Friday, and I will do my best to have a kick ass weekend, and I hope you do, too.

PS-- go check me out over at Mandy's blog, www.knowingthedifference.com, where I contributed to her weekly Lasting Impressions series about friendships.

My thought are everywhere today.

2009-02-04T07:05:00.001-08:00

I am finally getting a new laptop! And it's my favorite color!!! Isn't is pretty?

My trusty old laptop took a major crap a while back and I have been confined to my husband's desktop for months. Sounds painful, doesn't it? I know I know, I am blessed just to be able to have a computer, but see, when you are used to doing your interwebs bid-naz and school work in the comfort of your bed or your couch it really is painful to have to sit at a desk. It made my heart beat fast just thinking about it. So after hearing much complaining, Mr. Husbie went ahead and surprised me by ordering one yesterday. He's too good to me.

It's freezing in Chicago, which has made me a seriously grumpy person. To top it off, the heat in my office is on the fritz because they are remodeling and replacing the HV/AC, which yesterday resulted in me working with fingerless mittens on.

I could never survive grad school without the help of my husband. He helps me so much with every day life, it's unbelievable. When I come home from night class, the apartment is picked up, dinner is sometimes ready, bills are paid, accounts are balanced, and laundry is put away. He does all this without being asked, because he knows it will make my life much less stressful if I don't have to worry about those things and I can concentrate on school. He truly is my partner, and I love and respect him so much for that.

What is with professors wasting my time? I often times am driving anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour to get to class. To show up and find out the professor is totally unprepared is absolutely ridiculous. This is supposed to be one of the top 5 graduate programs for my discipline in the nation. If professors expect us to act professionally and show up for class prepared, then I think they should too, dammit.

And finally, to end on a happy note, I am loving grey nail polish. It just makes me so happy to have it painted on my short nails. The best grey is the O.P.I. "You Don't Know Jacques." I used to love black, but now that I work in a professional environment I feel like black is too edgy to wear to work, and grey is a good neutral tone that doesn't stand out as much but still looks a little funky. I loves.
Photo cred

If you're still around, thanks for suffering through my off wandering post. I hope you all have a great Wednesday. The weekend is coming!

dancing with strangers

2009-01-28T11:18:00.000-08:00

This video helped me break through my winter blues today, even if it was just for a few minutes.

And if you are not reading Color Me Katie, you should. This girl is insanely cute and her posts are always uplifting and cheerful! She is so creative and inspiring.

Damn, I feel GOOOOOD.

2009-01-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

I have been working out. Me. Of all people. The one who would love nothing better than to sit on her ass and watch Food Network all day and then prepare a glorious meal to devour.

And you know what? I feel great! I have even starting DVR-ing that healthy eats chick on the FN. Don't worry, Ina and Paula, you still have a special spot in my DVR heart.

I signed myself for the Shamrock Shuffle 8K on March 29 as a way to solidify my exercise regimen. I figured if I pay the $40 and tell everyone I am doing it...there really is no way to back out. For the last three weeks, it has proved to be a huge motivator because I have stuck to a running plan and feel myself getting better and better. I have been a runner before but have always fallen off the wagon when it gets too cold to run outside. This time I joined a gym and it's really working for me.

Hey, I can run to the top of the stairs again and not feel out of breath! This is a great feeling. I often wonder though, why do I ever quit running when it feels so good?

ooooOOOooooo, I feel greeeaaatt!!

Barack Hussein Obama

2009-01-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

I am so very excited to see what is in store for us in the next 100 days. Whether you are on the left or the right, or somewhere in the middle, you have to agree--what a great day for Americans.

An open letter to the man who stole my monitor...

2009-01-15T08:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Ass Hat Who Lives in Our Building,

You received a package on January 9th that was addressed to my husband. In it was a Dell Ultrasharp 22" Widescreen Flat Panel Monitor. You see, Ass Hat, we are but newlyweds who are just starting out. We don't have a lot of money to purchase luxury items such as this monitor and we saved our little Christmas pennies for it.

On January 9th, Ass Hat, the Fed Ex man knocked on your door instead of ours by mistake. I understand that the Fed Ex man shouldn't of done this, but we all make mistakes. I know that you saw that the package you accepted was addressed to us, and had our apartment number clearly marked on the package. You chose to take the package anyway, and not tell Fed Ex or the Building Manager that it wasn't yours. You see, you have had almost a week to correct this little mistake of yours. We gave you a chance, Ass Hat, we really did.

The problem with your little plan, Ass Hat, is that on January 9th, you signed for the package. So...(and how do I put this without sounding too threatening)...we know who you are, and we know you have our monitor. I would cough it up before I have to call the police. And trust me, Ray Ray will do it. She is one crazy bitch when she is messed with.

Here is when I start feeling a little sorry for you. Because, in general, if you are going to steal something, you probably shouldn't sign your name when you do so. That's just really, really, dumb.

I hope that we can solve this little issue without it turning into an episode of cops, I really do. But trust me, I don't mess.

Fondly,

Ms. Ray Ray

Guidespot

2009-01-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

I learned about Guidespot.com through Jenn over at Free and Flawed and decided to give it a try. I am really enjoying reading through all of the guides, some of which are very funny!

So I decided to write one about the West Loop, my favorite 'hood in Chi-Town (which also happens to be where I live). Go check it out and give me a thumbs up...my weak little ego could use it.

Find it here.

Spring Break '09...

2009-01-07T11:15:00.001-08:00

...and I am road trippin' it to the Big Easy.

Image Source

Anybody been to New Orleans and have any trip suggestions?? We will be there the week of March 9th and will be staying in the French Quarter.

I am so flippin' excited! This will be my first ever spring break trip, and I had to wait till I was a grad student to do it.

Mondays.

2009-01-05T21:12:00.000-08:00

I hate them, and that is all I wanna say about Mondays.

I did, however, purchase these totally rad boots over the weekend, completely on impulse:

Beware, Chicago, of me in my big, blue boots. Ray Ray gon' git cha.

NOT New Year Resolutions

2009-01-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

I don't make resolutions because that's not how I operate. As soon as I feel like I have to do something, I feel like running in the opposite direction. Therefore, I have some ideas of what I would like to accomplish in 2009 but I am not going to call them resolutions. I'm a weirdo, this I know.

Get Healthier. I am joining a gym, and I am so poor that I feel like the membership fee will be enough to make me get off my ass and actually go there. I am also running the Shamrock Shuffle and the Race to Wrigley, I think.

Get Happier. I am a pretty happy person, but I have problems saying "no." Plan on hearing more of that coming out of my mouth this year.

Be More Creative. I am feeling inspired to create and I can't let life get in the way of that in the new year.

Three things I think I can manage. And to go along with the 2009 theme, here are some accomplishments over the last year that I am pretty damn proud of.

Got married to the love of my life. And now I have a very, very, lovely life. I can't think of anything more perfect.

Moved to Chicago. I have wanted to be a city girl for as long as I can remember...and now I am!

Earned the highest GPA I have ever had...in GRAD SCHOOL none the less.

I feel pretty good about 2008, and feel even better about what's to come in 2009.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Girl, Get Your Scarf On!

2008-12-30T16:43:00.000-08:00

So I recently participated in a scarf swap with a bunch of other girlies and it was a blast! I had so much fun picking out the scarf I sent and I got paired up with such a great girl over at Gotta Have Faith.

Thanks, Faith, for this adorable scarf! I wore it to work today and got tons of compliments! Not only did you send me a great scarf, but you gave me a chance to show off my tree before it's time to take it down and use my new Nikon Coolpix Camera! ; )

December 23, 2008: A Day to Remember

2008-12-29T08:33:00.000-08:00

As previously mentioned, my husband and I decided to spent Christmas in Florida. The following post is a recount of the events that happened that fateful day we attempted to leave Chicago in the middle of a blizzard.

7 a.m. Get dressed and ready to fly to Florida. I'm feeling good in a cute little sundress ready to feel the Florida sun. Merry Christmas!! WHOOO!!

8 a.m. We leave our apartment and walk to the train to get to Midway Airport. We experience light flurries and strong winds. With my luggage in tow, I feel like a hobbit trying to cross the Mountain. I should of made like a hobbit and turned back. But alas, I pressed on.

9 a.m. Arrive at Midway. Get tickets, go through security, and realize that our flight is already delayed by an hour. The rest of my husband's family arrives. They don't look happy.

11 a.m. Flight is delayed again. We have no chance of making our connection in St. Louis and are forced to switch to a direct flight that departs at 5:30 p.m. We meet Ella, an elderly woman traveling by herself to spend Christmas with her son in St. Louis. We buy her a coffee and hold her hand. She is insanely adorable.

12 p.m. With our flight switched and Ella's indefinitely delayed, we decide to take her to lunch with us in the airport. I drink two Captains with a splash of coke. This bartender knew the disparity of our situation. Ella eats half of a baked potato and wraps the other half in a napkin and put it in her purse for later. I knew there was a reason I was attracted to her...my kinda lady.

2 p.m. Ella's plane is boarding. We say our goodbyes and head down to our gate. Two minutes later, we realize my mother-in-law is holding Ella's carry-on. We get it to a southwest employee just in the nick of time. Meanwhile, my father-in-law and I find a bar and order yet another drink, also mixed like they meant it. I was officially tipsy.

3 - 8 p.m. I spent this chunk of time in an airport bar...mostly by myself. John didn't feel well so he wasn't drinking, his aunt joined me for a little while and his sisters were in and out. I probably had 8 or 9 drinks here...and things are fuzzy. I meet a nice girl named Stephanie and we proceed to tell sloppy stories. She is trying to get to Detroit, and boards her plane at around 6 p.m.

I wander back to the gate at some point to check on the status of our flight when I realize that Mike Ditka in on our plane. Somehow, everything seems worth it. Because I was wasted, I decided not to get to close to him and instead try to take a picture from far away. Here is the result:

Yep, that's him, trying to look incognito behind a pillar. You didn't fool me Iron Mike, you didn't fool me!

At some point, I got more ballsy and stood obnoxiously close behind him in the hope that he would need to bend over and pick up his bag so I could touch his butt. He did, and I did. Lets just call it an early Christmas gift.

9 p.m. I wander around the airport some more after hearing it's going to be at least another hour before we are able to bored the plane. I find Stephanie again, and after she had been sitting on the plane for three hours they finally cancelled her flight. I tell her about Iron Mike, and we do a walk past. She can't believe it either. I try to convince her that she should stay and drink with us, but she decides to try to get a ride with a friend of hers that was driving to Detroit. I hope she got there.

After we see Stephanie, this gem of a drunken photo was taken of me posing with a statue of Dan Aykroyd outside of the bar.

I really, really hope my mouth never actually touched that statue.

10 p.m. We are ready to board. Finally! Yay! Florida, here we come! My husband looks frantic. He can't find his backpack. He and his father go in search of it while I wait at the gate for them and slowly watch all of the other passengers board the craft but us. I keep assuring the man by the gate that they are on their way...to please wait, and he keeps getting more irritated. Two of my frantic phone calls later they showed up to the gate without the bag which included to Christmas gifts that were never recovered. The angry Southwest employee closes the door behind us. Two words: BUZZ KILL.

Moral of the story: Never plan a trip with your in-laws that involves the possibility of traveling in weather that could result in delayed flights. If that isn't possible, always drink. And if you ever encounter Mike Ditka at an airport, always, always, try to touch his rump.

Happy Holidays.

Christmas in Florida

2008-12-16T07:16:00.000-08:00

I will be flying to Florida on December 23rd and will be staying through the 26th. Many of you are thinking..."a break from the cold weather, how great!" I feel like a total brat saying this, but I really, really don't wanna go.

Florida at Christmas just seems wrong. I mean, what the heck am I supposed to wear to Christmas Eve church when the service on the beach. It sounds cool in theory, but I am just not getting into it. No white snow, no cute Christmas sweater, no tights and sweater dress, NO NOTHIN'!

I am going with my husband and his whole family to visit his Grandparents who live there. Right before our wedding last June his grandfather fell ill and they were unable to make the trip and had to miss the wedding, which was a huge deal as John is their only grandson. So we decided to all visit for Christmas which is totally and completely the right decision and they are absolutely thrilled that we are coming.
It doesn't mean I have to love it.

Besides the whole warm-weather Florida thing, it will be the first time in my life that I won't be with my family on Christmas. We have a very close family, which means we are always all together on every holiday. My brother is gay and doesn't have any children, so him and his partner usually just split up for the day and go to respective houses, or they come to our celebration for part of the time and then go elsewhere. My sister's in-laws live out of the country, so that has never been an issue either. Everyone is really upset that I am leaving...although they do understand. Beyond the fact I am upset to be leaving I feel kinda like I am crapping all over my family's Christmas as well.

Now that I am married, I know my family has to share me. I just didn't think it would be this hard.

I need to watch Love Actually like nine times in a row and I will feel better in no time.

My husband, the literary genius, take 2.

2008-12-10T08:33:00.000-08:00

"Oh the weather outside is frightful,
but the fire is so delightful.
If my wife has no place to go,
She can ho, she can ho, she can ho."
-Mr.Husbie.

Things I don't do during finals week...

2008-12-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

Blow dry my hair.
Wear real pants. Sweat pant/legging/yoga pant ROCK CITY.
Do as much studying as I need to or say I am going to.
Work out. please.
Concentrate. There is something about the web-o-tube that calls to me during finals week. Do you hear it? "Ray Ray...come to you tube and look up classic Sesame Street segments.."

Done. Tell me you 20 something bloggers don't remember this shit.

ELFED!

2008-12-05T09:05:00.000-08:00

I can't get enough of this.

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Lofty Ideas

2008-12-02T12:54:00.000-08:00

I originally started this blog to get inspiration for my new married life in the realm of decorating, cooking, and personal style. My husband and I moved to Chicago immediately after the wedding into a west loop loft space, hence the name, Lofty Ideas.

I am absolutely in love with my apartment. Timber beams, exposed brick, and tall exposed ceilings are just begging for decorative attention. The only problem is that with grad school, I haven't had much time to do it! I like what I have going on in there currently but I haven't been able to put the time into it I want. This led to me not writing about decorating our lovely loft, which led to me just talking about crap on my blog.

And you know...I think that is OK, too! However, over the holiday break I am going to start planning my schemes for our space in the hopes to get myself organized and tackle paint colors and artwork, at the very least.

I am such a girl.

2008-12-01T15:12:00.000-08:00

I am currently stranded at school because I have no idea how to change a flat tire. Now I have to pay for a truck to come help me. Thank goodness I was at school and not on the side of the road, so I have warmth and a computer lab.

Bottom line: I need to be more independent and learn how to do crap myself.

Also this tire was repaired on Saturday. Bastards.

My husband, the literary genius.

2008-11-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

My husband used to be a picky eater. That was nine kinds of annoying. Now he eats lots of things, including pot roast. He was so ecstatic about his new found love for this culinary delight that he wrote me a poem about it.

eh hem....

"Pot Roast" by Mr. Husbie.

I used to hate all pot roasts,
I cannot tell a lie.
But now I find them lovely,
yet cannot discern why.

I cooked it fresh,
I ate it hot,
now hungry I am not.
I'm deep in love,
I do declare,
with that roast of pot!

It's just a day in the life. Be jealous, ladies. Be very jealous.

Do this, it's fun.

2008-11-24T18:39:00.000-08:00

My jam packed weekend.

2008-11-24T06:04:00.000-08:00

I did so much this weekend! I can't hardly believe it.

Friday night I went to my first ever blogger meet-up, where I met some really cool people! I got silly drunk on wine with Laura Marie, finally met Jess who is super cool, met Jenn and Dan and Erin who are also super cool, and I also briefly met Rachel, who is super loud and cool, because I love a loud girl.

I wish I could have followed you all to the rousing game of beer pong, but an old friend was having a birthday that I needed to attend to. All in all, I think it was a great experience and I can't wait to do it again! Also, I got talked into doing twitter, which I am now addicted to. Hot damn, this is no good (but soooo good).

Saturday I took my little punk ass nephews to the lighting ceremony on Michigan Ave. It was SUPER crowded and slightly annoying but seeing the trees light up was great. We were standing right in front of the Wrigley building, which was probably a bad location for crowds but in all, I think the trip was successful.

Sunday, the Bears brought it to the Rams (no surprise there) and I watched the SEASON FINALE OF TRUE BLOOD!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! It was great, and I won't spoil it for you guys who haven't seen it yet, but hot damn, I am shocked by that ending. This is why my obsession with HBO shows is unhealthy...now I have to wait till next summer to find out what happens. It's a bunch of noise. I think I'll read the books.

And one last thought....SNOW? Whiskey Tango Foxtrot. So not ready.

Happy Monday!

Bite Me. Literally.

2008-11-21T11:53:00.000-08:00

I haven't read the Twilight books...but I REALLY want to see the movie because of my recent obsession with vampires due to HBO's True Blood. Now all I have to do is convince my husband to go with me. Furthermore, I can't decide which book series to start over Christmas break...the Twilight Series or the Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Series (what the HBO show is based of off). Any comments/recommendations on that?

In other news, I am coming out of the blogger closet and attending my first meet up tonight ::gulp:: wish me luck.

AND HAVE A FABULOUS WEEKEND!

Recent Obsessions

2008-11-11T07:54:00.000-08:00

I have been a busy little lady lately. Woa, mouth full. And because making lists is one of my favorite things in the world, and because I have no time to post anything with substance, here is what I've been loving doing:

TrueBlood. This seriously may top Sex and the City for my favorite show of all time.
Working Out. John and I joined a gym in our 'hood. Privately owned, small, inviting. I am loving being active again.
Obama-mania. I can't get enough. I mean, I have been an Obama backer since day one. However, ever since the Grant Park experience last Tuesday, I seriously cannot get enough. The level of excitement is just through the roof.
Math Homework. I never thought in a million years I would say this, but after 18+ years of being in school, I think I am finally starting to enjoy math homework. Doing problems by hand is somewhat soothing when you know how to do them.
The Pioneer Woman. You have all probably been there by now, but I seriously just absolutely love her.

Additionally you should go here and donate to Lupus. You'll feel good about yourself afterward, I promise! ; )

The Bears and an Election Day Story

2008-11-04T08:43:00.001-08:00

Da Bears

So my bestest friends and I went to the Bears game on Oct. 19th...and I have been too lazy to get pictures from any of them (I forgot my camera that day) until now. We got front row seats in the south end zone, and it was one of the most amazing days of my life. (yes I am that much of a Bears nerd). Some of the pictures were so darn cute, I just had to share!!

My two best girly friends and me...I love having girlfriends that enjoy football as much as I do! The whole gang. Aren't we cute with our scarfs? We got them at the game.

In other news....

I got my butt up early this morning and stood in line at the polls at 6 a.m. to vote for change. I had an hour and ten minute wait...not horrible! I always loved election day which is why I didn't vote early. There just seems to be so much excitement in the air the morning of November 4th.

When I turned 18, I got to vote in my first presidential election a month later. My parents wanted me to go to the polling place with them, and I of course wanted to be independent and go without them.

So I left about 15 minutes after they did and planned to just head to school after I voted. When I got there and gave them my name feeling so proud of my newly granted voting ability, the nice "little old lady" election judge looked at me knowingly and said "Oh, sweetie...your Mom told us you'd be coming" and proceeded to describe to me in detail how to fill out the ballot and put it in the machine while everyone else in line starred at me. I was mortified.

Happy Election Day!

Pumpkin Fest or Bust

2008-10-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the annual Pumpkin Festival in my hometown. It's a silly little festival where people decorate pumpkins and enter them in a contest on the courthouse lawn. There are different age groups and categories you can enter in, such as "Weird, Ugly, and Scary," "TV, Movie, and Nursery Rhyme," Carved," "Happy and Fancy" and of course, the theme category which happens to be "Pumpkintopia" this year.

Seriously, how cute is this?

I have never missed a Pumpkin Fest since I can remember. So of course, this year will not be any different as my husband and I will make the great pilgrimage to the 'burbs to enjoy yet another year of pumpkin delight. Saturday I am going to hit up some craft shows with my Ma, and Sunday we'll hit up the parade, and of course eat disgustingly delicious festival type food and look at all the pumpkins. SIDE NOTE: I absolutely love parades, as they bring back memories of when I was a huge nerd and the drum major of the Sycamore High School Marching Spartans. Yes, I am THAT dorky.

And the BEST thing about Pumpkin Fest is Mr. Pumpkin himself, Wally Thurow. He started the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival when he displayed a few decorated pumpkins on his front lawn in 1956. Now it's a full blown celebration of fall. How cute is this guy?? He used to ride his big wheel bicycle in the parade every year, but alas, Wally is climbing in years and he now sits comfortable in the back of a convertible.

Pumpkin Fest will always be one of the most nostalgic times of the year for me...even more so than the holidays. Decorating pumpkins and attending all of the great activities are some of the happiest times in my life, and I can't wait to get back there this weekend and relive them all

I hope all of you have a fabulous weekend as well!

Kidnap the Sandy Clause...

2008-10-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

...beat him with a stick,
Lock him up for ninety years,
Then see what makes him tick...

I love the Nightmare Before Christmas. One of my all time childhood favorites. A new album came out that is rockin' my socks this "howl-iday season" bwah hahaha

This is a two-disc soundtrack album, with the second disc featuring current artists covering songs from the movie. Such as Marilyn Manson's cover of "This is Halloween" and Korn's rendition of "Kidnap the Sandy Clause."

If you love this Tim Burton masterpiece as much as I do...promise me you'll check it out!

Procrastination Favorites

2008-10-14T09:29:00.000-07:00

In honor of my homework-filled, grad-school ridden life, I have decided to come up with my list of favorite things to do to procrastinate. Why? Because I am procrastinating right now, of course.

ah hem....

Blogging, duh. Although, I can't always bring myself to actually write a post when I am procrastinating, but perusing blogs is the best waste of time in the world.

Learning the lyrics to rap songs. Hey, you can impress your friends at the bar/next party. I now know all the words to "Whatever You Like" by T.I. I don't really even like rap music all that much. "yeah ya smell so fresh, look so nice, gas up the jet for tonight and baby you can go wherever you like....yeah you can go wherever you like....."

Cleaning house. My house has never sparkled like it does when I have a paper due.

Watching television in disguise. By this I mean sitting on the couch with your work in your lap and turning the TV on for background noise. Then proceeding to watch the last three episodes of True Blood. Whoops.

Grooming. I think to myself...just a quick shower and then I will get started on my work. A half hour long shower, freshly shaved legs, plucked eyebrows and a fresh coat of nail polish, and I am ready to get to work :)

"Hard work often pays off after time, but laziness always pays off now."

I'm in love, I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!

2008-10-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

I have been a Sex and the City addict for a long time. Addict in every sense of the word. An addict like I actually get cravings. Which is a good thing I own the pink velvet book of naughtiness:

I am NOT ashamed to say I have seen all six seasons about 4-5 times. Totally not ashamed. Everyone who knows me knows my love. Hell, for my bacherlorette party....I dragged all my girlfriends to see the movie. I may or may not have dressed up. shhhh...don't tell.

And as happy as it makes me, Sex and the City also makes my want to do very naughty things. For example, It makes me want to smoke. SO naughty. It never feels as glamorous as it looks on the show though, and whenever I do partake, I always regret it. But nothing makes me want to smoke like Sex and the City. It also makes me want to spend copious amounts of money on clothing, shoes, and accessories.

All of these strong emotions are coming about because I just received the movie for my birthday, along with this naughty book.

I just can't get enough. Just can't.

It's my party!

2008-10-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

It always sucks to get up and go to work on your birthday. However, I have the best co-workers in the world who surprised me with McDonald's breakfast (a known favorite of mine and so, so, naughty) a cookbook (I LOVE to cook) and a card signed by everyone this morning. I am lucky to work with such nice people. I am so looking forward to tonight, however.

Countdown: T-minus 8 hours until debauchery :)

Tonight my friends are throwing a little party for me and Saturday....it's the annual Rock Star Party. This is a party thrown by my co-worker where everyone dresses like a rock star and gets sloshed. I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS PARTY. We look forward to it all year.

Last year, I was Amy Winehouse and my husband was Bucket Head. This year, he is going as Bob Dylan and I think I am going to just be a groupie unless I can come up with something fast...any suggestions???

Have a good weekend everyone, and ROCK ON!

Love It/Hate It--Tuesday Edition

2008-09-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

RAY RAY LOVES...

Being a sports fan in Chicago right now. Bears beat the Eagles! Cubs are in the playoffs!!

Wearing my wellies on a rainy fall day...with knee socks of course.

New school supplies! Even in my twenties...the sight of a brand new box of Crayola's is...mesmerizing, to say the least.

Husbands. <3
A full tank of gas. It's that feeling I could drive anywhere and no one will stop me!

RAY RAY HATES...

Bad table manors. Were ya born in a barn people?? Use a napkin, at least.

Mean Professors. I wish someone would have taught them the golden rule, it would make their life easier as well as ours : /

People putting their bag on the seat next to them on public transportation. How selfish...

Waiting until next week for another episode of True Blood. But I wanna find out what happens NOW...
The smell of cheap scented candles. This is really NOT something one should skimp on.

Crazy animal video of the day: Boxing Deer. I DARE you not to laugh....

Have a great weekend, friends!

2008-09-26T13:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight is dominos night! Have you ever played Mexican Train Dominos? My husband and I will play for hours and drink copious amounts of Jim Beam like a couple of 80 year olds...but hey. That's just us.

And then TOMORROW......TOMORROW is the annual Lundeen's Brewhaha beer tasting event. It's this great event hosted by a local liquer store back in DeKalb where I went to school (NIU). All of our besties are going and it should be a REALLY great time. Fall is the perfect time of year for this type of event...mild weather, cute fall clothes and all my friends drinking some brews under a tent. Look out Oktoberfest Beers...look out...here comes Ray Ray to gobble you up...

Do you notice a trend here with the alcohol? I am young and stupid...this I know.

And I must confess to you something about Sunday...I am worried for my Bears. Come on, guys, I need you. Chicago needs you. They are facing a tough defense this week with the Eagles, and I hope that Orton can break through and throw some good ones. (ahh...I love you Brian Urlacher...)

Bear Down, Bears! Bear Down!!

I hope everyone has as fun of a weekend as I am going to have! :)

So I am seriously not usually this negative...I think...

2008-09-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

I really am not this negative of a person, but for some reason this week I feel insanely...what word should I use..."bothered."

Prime example: Someone at work just asked me to do them a favor. But instead of just asking me politely, (and I assure you I am a VERY reasonable person when it comes to favors) she instead pulls the whole..."Remember when I did this for you, will you do it for me now" routine. And for some reason, that REALLY bothered me.

Literally, I feel like my head is going to explode and a colony of angry little green monsters are going to march out and start screaming at everyone.

Trust me world, it's me not you.

My School Rant.

2008-09-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

School is sucking out my soul. I have so much reading it's unbelievable.

Also, I hate group projects, like, with a passion. I am a solo kinda girl when it comes to homework. Want to meet up for drinks? Absolutely. Want to meet up to do some absurd project? No thanks.

Why am I getting my Masters? WHY WHY WHY?

Someone besides my parents tell me this is a good idea before I do something drastic.

I am being a baby here, really I am. I'm just not feelin' it today.

You know what I'm feeling today? Shoe shopping, cruising the web, and watching re-runs of Girls Next Door. None of which are actually going to happen.

I hope everyone else is having a much more pleasant day. :)

BTW: Come procrastinate with me on 20 Something Bloggers. I am new...be my friend, please ; )

Love It/Hate It

2008-09-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

When I was in high school, I was the opinion editor of my high school newspaper, The Spartan Voice. Being the quick witted little asshole I was, I loved to write love it/hate it's that ran in the newspaper each week. I'm a bringin' em' back!!!

Ray loves....

When people actually compliment you on a new hair cut instead of just saying, "Oh, you got your hair cut." yeah, no crap. But an "Oh! You got your hair cut and it looks great! It really brings out your eyes!" Really, really makes my day.

That's what she said jokes on a Friday afternoon. Nothing brings me more pleasure. That's what she said.

Brand, spankin' new sharpies. Can't wait to scribble all over anything and everything!

Pumpkin Spice Lattes. SO DIVINE!

Pictures/videos of animals doing weird/funny crap. It is my weakness...I will never get sick of them.

Ray hates...

People taking themselves too seriously. Come on, you know you love "that's what she said jokes." Just laugh already.

Loud, electronic noises on the train commute. Do I REALLY have to listen to your blackberry beep everytime you touch it ALL THE WAY BACK IN TO THE CITY??? grrrRRRrrr

Litter bugs. What the hell?

When the person in a group of diners who orders the most expensive thing on the menu is the one who suggests we split it all "evenly." I should have taken a bite of your filet, damn it.

People not trying sushi. You are missing out on a small ittle piece of my heaven.

There ya have it! have a good weekend, non-existant readers!!! Oh, and one weird/funny animal...because I could never make it through life without them!

My favorite wedding photos.

2008-09-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

Below are some of my favorite wedding photos. Because we are three months past the wedding, it is finally time to start deciding what we are going to order. These are my absolute favorite. Photos are courtesy of Noel Davis Photography, family friends of ours who, in my opinion, did an AMAZING job. Enjoy.

http://www.noeldavisphotography.com/

My MOST favorite! I think we will have this one blown up BIG. I just love how all of our friends are in it with us...just like our life. K now I am getting sappy. I am not sappy, I'm sassy. SO THERE!

Love this one too...so much fun!

My pretty girls

My hubby John

My favorite picture of one of our flower girls, Faith.

The only picture of myself I ever really loved. AND I was in love with my veil, so...you know...

There you have it! It was a beautiful day.

GREAT SUCCESS!

2008-09-16T10:33:00.001-07:00

I love you SNL!

Can I take your coat?

2008-09-10T11:21:00.001-07:00

Anthropologie is one of those stores where you could literally buy me anything in there and I would love it. One of the things I love so much about the place is their huge collection of quirky hardware.

Ever since my husband and I moved into our loft apartment with a VERY long hallway, I have been obsessed with figuring out what to do with it. The bulb has been illuminated.

I plan to start collecting TONS of cute hooks...and plastering my hallway with them every which way. I definitly want this to be a hodge-podge sort of deal. MUCH more attractive than a coat tree...and plus I would finally have a reason to start buying up all of these great finds! Like these from Anthropologie:

And I love these concrete lightbulb wall hooks from Whamodyne, a seller on Etsy.
The perfect place for my purse...I just may have to order one! How quirky and cute!

For The Love of Pete SNL...Bring Fey Back This Weekend!

2008-09-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

OK...so it's everywhere. All over every news source and blog.

It's Governor Sarah Palin's EXTREME resemblance to Tina Fey. Democrat or Republican, you cannot deny you would love to see this parody.

(image source)

I have loved SNL since I was in junior high sneaking it on a Saturday night with my girlfriends. Lately, I have been less than impressed but for goodness sake....if Lorne Micheals does not bring Tina Fey back this weekend to impersonate Sarah Palin...my dwindling love affair with SNL just may be over.

I NEED to see Tina Fey as Sarah Palin. It may just lure me back to SNL like the days when Mr. Peepers, Mango, and The Spartans graced my boob tube.

An ode to Resi's

2008-09-04T14:28:00.000-07:00

Resi's Bierstube is quite possibly the best bar on the planet earth. Yes I mean that. Don't believe me? Click here: http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/4152/?view=beerfly

It is this tiny VERY German bar on Chicago's north west side that sets my heart aflutter just thinking about the cold, fresh, rich, beer that comes out in gibungus mugs. The German food is amazing. The German beer is even amazing-er (yes I know that's not a word.) My husband and I just patronized this joint last weekend. Jaeger Schnitzel gets two thumbs WAY UP.

If you are ever in Chicago and want a "warm fuzzy" kind of hot meal and some cold, fresh, German beer...GO TO THE 'STUBE!

Resi's Bierstube
2034 W Irving Park Rd
Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 472-1749

White and Nerdy

2008-08-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

This is my husband, John.

He is white and nerdy, just like me. Example:

Some white and nerdy things we enjoy:

Nintendo Wii
Sam Adams
The Olympics
Ikea, specifically eating swedish meatballs while shopping at Ikea.
Ween
Our Toyota
Reusable Canvas Grocery Bags.
NPR

We live on the near west side of Chicago so that we can have the appearance of being cool and urban. Also the rent is cheaper and we like the neighborhood. I think that is OK. Maybe some day I will post pictures of John and I being white and nerdy in our urban apartment, but probably not.

Pantyhose: The Bane of my Existence

2008-08-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

Why WHY WHY??

Why must I be subjected to such torture??

Who smoked crack and decided that women in the professional world should feel as though their thighs are being eaten alive by the evil nylon monster?

Why must I feel as though my legs are sausages...and pantyhose the casing?

Only Clare of Six Feet Under can express exactly how I am feeling: Click here.

Hi. I'm new here.

2008-08-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

Should I introduce myself? OK. I'm Ray, I am a newlywed in my early twenty's. I am going to grad school and completing an internship in a little suburb of Chicago. My husband and I are currently living in downtown Chicago and loving every minute of it. We have GREAT friends and awesome families. We were just married on June 14th, 2008. It was a lovely day. Now that is certainly enough of that...

Lofty Ideas

Brussels!

London!

This Summer I Have...

30 Days Sober

Rockin the Squeeze Box

The Energizer Bunny

Hello Orlando!

The Graduate

Re-Do

Best of 2009: Album of the Year

Best of 2009: Article

"Bob Waldmire’s farewell tour: The artist and his love affair with the Mother Road"

Launching Pad Drive in and Giant Gemini Statue, Wilmington, IL

Oh Em Gee it's Thanksgiving

Relief

Update

enough to make you lose your lunch...

Job? Bueller? Bueller?

On Vacation I...

20SB Blog Carnival: Looking Back

Gangster Paradise?

Sweet Summer

She emerges, after a month long hibernation...

Ray Ray does New Orleans

Hello, World.

Letter Game!

Huskie Love

Aw, shit that's cute.

Back to The Future, and a Fort

Friday, thank the heavens.

My thought are everywhere today.

dancing with strangers

Damn, I feel GOOOOOD.

Barack Hussein Obama

An open letter to the man who stole my monitor...

Guidespot

Spring Break '09...

Mondays.

NOT New Year Resolutions

Girl, Get Your Scarf On!

December 23, 2008: A Day to Remember

Christmas in Florida

My husband, the literary genius, take 2.

Things I don't do during finals week...

ELFED!

Lofty Ideas

I am such a girl.

My husband, the literary genius.

Do this, it's fun.

My jam packed weekend.

Bite Me. Literally.

Recent Obsessions

The Bears and an Election Day Story

Pumpkin Fest or Bust

Kidnap the Sandy Clause...

Procrastination Favorites

I'm in love, I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!

It's my party!

Love It/Hate It--Tuesday Edition

Have a great weekend, friends!

So I am seriously not usually this negative...I think...

My School Rant.

Love It/Hate It

My favorite wedding photos.

GREAT SUCCESS!

Can I take your coat?

For The Love of Pete SNL...Bring Fey Back This Weekend!

An ode to Resi's

White and Nerdy

Pantyhose: The Bane of my Existence

Hi. I'm new here.

"Bob Waldmire’s farewell tour: The artist and his love affair with the Mother Ro ad"