Work. Wine Taste ( a little). Running. Yes, in that order. I managed to enjoy a day shift, taste a few samples of wine and go running. The wine factor and running were subpar. One of the reps canceled and offered to meet me tomorrow. I declined. I work tomorrow night in the closing sense and have arranged to be available on Tuesdays for that purpose. Twice, this particular rep, has offered to meet me Wednesday and twice, I have declined. I don't want to get in the habit of meeting on Wednesday. I am the Tuesday gal.
Running went okay. My running partner showed up later than anticipated. I was considering postponing due to being annoyed when I decided to just roll with it. He called me, a few times, to question the path I wanted to do. He was unfamiliar with the area and wanted to make sure that it was safe. All, I could think of, was--we are running to Scottsdale. How unsafe is that? There are probably more vagrants in Tempe near the Town Lake. But, what do I know? I like running on trails.
Still, the pace was good, for me, and then, I missed my ipod. Next time I run with this guy, I am bringing it. I know he starts strong, slows down and then sprints the last 50 yds. I prefer running consistent throughout.
Afterwards, I took off. I know that he wanted to hang out and talk but I was hot and wanting to shower. All I could think was why am I not closer to my house (shower)? Or, if you had beside me instead of behind me, we could have discussed everything you want to talk about now postrun. I took off because I didn't care. Sounds terrible and honestly, I do appreciate this guy for meeting me to run. Yet, he could push himself to keep up instead of talking himself into a lackluster performance.
A friend is in town but after meeting him for lunch tomorrow, I know, tonight is lowkey. Ironically, I believe, Jonny found me my next home. I wish that I loved, loved, loved my rental property. I don't. My landlord is like all other landlords....lame. She does things on her own terms. The lease is set up to her benefit and I pay rent in a timely manner. I call her to fix issues and am forced to wait 4-7 days. I know what would happen if I waited a week to pay rent. According to the lease, I would owe an additonal $350. Seriously. I want to wait though as a point since she always makes me wait to fix issues in rental and after living here since September I recognize that every issue I have confronted was one in which she knew about and opted to not fix prior to my moving in. That is the definite rub. The fact that she knew that the stove wasn't working or that the sink wouldn't shut off or that the blinds wouldn't open and decided to not change any of it. I am annoyed.
Tomorrow, I plan on running and enjoying life. BTW...the Goddess is Aunt. Welcome to the world Brooks Matthew--you are celebrated and loved. After hours of waiting, you finally arrived. It is exciting!
I hope your Tuesday went well. As much as I sound negative (running partner, landlord), I am blisshful and grateful for my surroundings. Wine, too.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Monday, January 9, 2012
Monday Memory
Do you have fond memories of your childhood? I do.
I remember playing with the neighborhood kids all summer long. Nothing else mattered. We would spend all day long outside since that was typical. Chores done and from there we were free. No responsibility or having to be home under parental consent.
I spent a few weeks ago in California and mostly went to see the ocean. Compelled to go, I contacted a friend and mentioned my want. He concurred and promptly drove me to the beach. He mentioned the sea creatures and how if you touched them they would close up. Funny. Such a kid. I swear. He was completely at ease playing with the sea anenomes.
Today, I skipped work to hang out with my friend, Jonny. He was visiting and I took that opportunity to enjoy a day off. We met at a lovely lunch spot for wine and considered the day. National championship, drinks, food (where), etc....Early part of day was lovely. Nice lunch, conversation and then we meandered with the evening. He had a date but didn't know how committed he was to it. I visualized my exit. Still, I sat thru a few beers and random converation. At one point, i excused myself and headed outside. I was ready to conclude my night.
Now, I am thankful for Monday, a day off and wine. Grateful for being/feeling like a kid too. How innocent that point of life is. Blissful, uncomplicated and free...I do remember being a kid.
I remember playing with the neighborhood kids all summer long. Nothing else mattered. We would spend all day long outside since that was typical. Chores done and from there we were free. No responsibility or having to be home under parental consent.
I spent a few weeks ago in California and mostly went to see the ocean. Compelled to go, I contacted a friend and mentioned my want. He concurred and promptly drove me to the beach. He mentioned the sea creatures and how if you touched them they would close up. Funny. Such a kid. I swear. He was completely at ease playing with the sea anenomes.
Today, I skipped work to hang out with my friend, Jonny. He was visiting and I took that opportunity to enjoy a day off. We met at a lovely lunch spot for wine and considered the day. National championship, drinks, food (where), etc....Early part of day was lovely. Nice lunch, conversation and then we meandered with the evening. He had a date but didn't know how committed he was to it. I visualized my exit. Still, I sat thru a few beers and random converation. At one point, i excused myself and headed outside. I was ready to conclude my night.
Now, I am thankful for Monday, a day off and wine. Grateful for being/feeling like a kid too. How innocent that point of life is. Blissful, uncomplicated and free...I do remember being a kid.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
day off
And, now I know, why they call it whole paycheck....omg...fell in love with the market in Chandler. The location is a little too suburban (for me) and parking lot could be nightmarish, but today, I was pleasantly surprised. No parking issues.
I walk in and am in awe. Clean, organized and oh, did I mention, the beer/wine bar? Hello, blissful mecca. I chose a wine, sat at a cabaret table and read a book. I did make a notation regarding the wine I was drinking. I have this awesome new wine book and am committed to using it. Thank you, J & T! I opened my cultural studies book and thought of my past. How I knew the author and some of our mutual acquaintances/friends, even. Cotten was a mentor of mine in college (still is to a certain degree). I took his advice regarding classes to take while in college and travel as I have gotten older. I legitimately respect his perspective.
He's published. I bought a few copies and gifted one to an old of boss of mine. I planned on giving it to both brothers, but think, the younger one annoyed me and so I kept his copy for myself. I have traveled with the book and the other night mentioned it to Brandon. I believe he would enjoy the book especially with his academic background. I wanted to find it--a), and b) take a stab at it myself. Ideal for the cabaret seating. First, I sample the wine, though. A zinfandel, from Healdsburg and high in alcohol. That is what I tasted....a hot wine. Nice.
I texted a few people and contemplated my dinner plans. I was in a market with endless possibilities. I was interrupted to hear--aren't you Harmony?
Yes.
Thought so....I looked over and looked over and looked again. Nah, that isn't her. But, you would responded. How have you been?....
This has occurred a fair amount the last few days. Running into people in Phoenix from a restaurant that worked at over ten years ago. It is funny. Roy was kind and we caught up briefly. He returned to his beer and I resumed my affair with the hot wine.
I paid the tab and shopped. Perused the wine supply and bought coteswold cheese instead. Love that cheese. I remembered I had excellent vegetables to utilize and rotini. Wouldn't a sangiovese be delightful with homemade sauce?
I stopped at a wine store and checked out their supply. Familiar with what they offered since I frequent it often and so I continued to their tasting room. Filled with about 7 people--all drinking beer. I asked the bartender for a wine list and a glass of water. Somehow, he never fulfilled that task. Busy texting and looking cool. No, I am not being facetious. This guy really texted the majority of my time in the bar. No water either.
I finished my wine and asked for my tab. I returned to the liquor store and chose a few wines. I have a friend that is visiting in a few weeks and need to stock up. From experience, I know. Must be prepared with wine and some munchie type of foods. Hummus, cheese, tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil. All complement wine. She is gluten free and so I must resist the urge to buy bread, flour tortillas or pasta. Her visit will be about wine and vegetables. I should probably detox until she arrives. Her visit will be exhausting.
Regardless, today was a great day. It began with a 6 mile run, followed by coffee and a relaxing agenda. Never again will I attempt to do laundry on Saturday either. Outside of that misstep, glorious day.
In other unrelated news...I sent a package (wine glasses and charms) to a friend that I recently visited. Wine glasses because (I think, but do not have conclusive knowledge) I broke one. It is the right thing to do. I found some glasses and wine charms. Coudn't resist the charms since they reminded me of sunflowers. I wrapped the box and sent it west.
He texted--did you send a package?
Nothing else. No thank you, no comment on the wine charms or anything. I didnt't think he opened it. Then, I was curious and asked if he received the wine glasses. Immediately, he responded---yes, that is why I texted you the other day about the package.
I asked if he liked wine charms....what? what wine charms?
Didn't you read the card....what card?
At this point, I am confused. I know that I put a card and wine charms in the box along with four wine glasses. I tell him that the card explained the charms. Perhaps he couldn't read the card was my thought. It wouldn't be the first time. Those of you on the receiving end of xmas cards, birthday, thank you....can attest to that.
Regardless, I don't hear anything for awhile. Then, I get a text---I went dumpster diving and found your card/sunflower charms--thank you.
Too funny. Life is grand. Enjoy yousr~
I walk in and am in awe. Clean, organized and oh, did I mention, the beer/wine bar? Hello, blissful mecca. I chose a wine, sat at a cabaret table and read a book. I did make a notation regarding the wine I was drinking. I have this awesome new wine book and am committed to using it. Thank you, J & T! I opened my cultural studies book and thought of my past. How I knew the author and some of our mutual acquaintances/friends, even. Cotten was a mentor of mine in college (still is to a certain degree). I took his advice regarding classes to take while in college and travel as I have gotten older. I legitimately respect his perspective.
He's published. I bought a few copies and gifted one to an old of boss of mine. I planned on giving it to both brothers, but think, the younger one annoyed me and so I kept his copy for myself. I have traveled with the book and the other night mentioned it to Brandon. I believe he would enjoy the book especially with his academic background. I wanted to find it--a), and b) take a stab at it myself. Ideal for the cabaret seating. First, I sample the wine, though. A zinfandel, from Healdsburg and high in alcohol. That is what I tasted....a hot wine. Nice.
I texted a few people and contemplated my dinner plans. I was in a market with endless possibilities. I was interrupted to hear--aren't you Harmony?
Yes.
Thought so....I looked over and looked over and looked again. Nah, that isn't her. But, you would responded. How have you been?....
This has occurred a fair amount the last few days. Running into people in Phoenix from a restaurant that worked at over ten years ago. It is funny. Roy was kind and we caught up briefly. He returned to his beer and I resumed my affair with the hot wine.
I paid the tab and shopped. Perused the wine supply and bought coteswold cheese instead. Love that cheese. I remembered I had excellent vegetables to utilize and rotini. Wouldn't a sangiovese be delightful with homemade sauce?
I stopped at a wine store and checked out their supply. Familiar with what they offered since I frequent it often and so I continued to their tasting room. Filled with about 7 people--all drinking beer. I asked the bartender for a wine list and a glass of water. Somehow, he never fulfilled that task. Busy texting and looking cool. No, I am not being facetious. This guy really texted the majority of my time in the bar. No water either.
I finished my wine and asked for my tab. I returned to the liquor store and chose a few wines. I have a friend that is visiting in a few weeks and need to stock up. From experience, I know. Must be prepared with wine and some munchie type of foods. Hummus, cheese, tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil. All complement wine. She is gluten free and so I must resist the urge to buy bread, flour tortillas or pasta. Her visit will be about wine and vegetables. I should probably detox until she arrives. Her visit will be exhausting.
Regardless, today was a great day. It began with a 6 mile run, followed by coffee and a relaxing agenda. Never again will I attempt to do laundry on Saturday either. Outside of that misstep, glorious day.
In other unrelated news...I sent a package (wine glasses and charms) to a friend that I recently visited. Wine glasses because (I think, but do not have conclusive knowledge) I broke one. It is the right thing to do. I found some glasses and wine charms. Coudn't resist the charms since they reminded me of sunflowers. I wrapped the box and sent it west.
He texted--did you send a package?
Nothing else. No thank you, no comment on the wine charms or anything. I didnt't think he opened it. Then, I was curious and asked if he received the wine glasses. Immediately, he responded---yes, that is why I texted you the other day about the package.
I asked if he liked wine charms....what? what wine charms?
Didn't you read the card....what card?
At this point, I am confused. I know that I put a card and wine charms in the box along with four wine glasses. I tell him that the card explained the charms. Perhaps he couldn't read the card was my thought. It wouldn't be the first time. Those of you on the receiving end of xmas cards, birthday, thank you....can attest to that.
Regardless, I don't hear anything for awhile. Then, I get a text---I went dumpster diving and found your card/sunflower charms--thank you.
Too funny. Life is grand. Enjoy yousr~
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
wednesday woes
3:45 a.m. Yes, insomnia, again. I checked out my e-mail, daily blessing and found a video on-line. Thirty minutes later I was able to go to sleep. Needed it and slept in til my alarm went off.
7:45. Awesome. I opted to ignore it. I wanted to sleep and I wasn't concerned that my landlord was coming over between 9-10. I figured, I would shut my bedroom door and have her attend to the kitchen sink. Yesterday I called her to relay an issue with it. She agreed to stop by (maybe) yesterday. Of course, that didn't work out. Meanwhile, I dropped my phone in water and couldn't revive it for a few hours. I rushed around hoping to contact my running date via e-mail and Brandon to confirm our potential meetups. Brandon and I met for wine at Trix and Jeff and I ran a loop around the lake. Thankfully, I had both of their e-mail accounts. I met Jeff for the run and returned home to find that my phone was functioning. Yea. Super happy to not have to buy yet another phone.
The run went well. He increased his pace and agreed to sign up for a half marathon. It's time and I told him so. I said, quit saying, I will never run a half marathon....you're right, you won't with that attitude. However, 2012 is a new year and an excellent time to attempt a 1/2. That is what I told him while running the loop. I think we are committed to a weekly run.
Returning home, I found that my landlord had called to let me know that she would be over between 9-10 this morning to check out the kitchen sink issue. I have figured out that she is like most landlords--unwilling to fix a problem in a timely manner. I wonder if I was late a few days with rent what my consequences would be. Today, she called to say, I am sorry, but I have other issues to attend to. I could stop by Saturday, no, Sunday. You can just turn the valve off til I am able to look into it. WTF? Why am I paying you to not take my calls seriously? Annoyed to say the least.
In addition to the insomnia, I was congested. Reminder, I need to take care of myself. My immune system is weak (apparently). I hate being sick. Instead of attending the wine tasting this afternoon, I postponed it for a week and scheduled a massage, tomorrow. I think it will be an ideal way to rid myself of more toxins. Also, I might be able to sleep tonight. I remain hopeful and excited for upcoming massage. It is going to be a wonderful day.
7:45. Awesome. I opted to ignore it. I wanted to sleep and I wasn't concerned that my landlord was coming over between 9-10. I figured, I would shut my bedroom door and have her attend to the kitchen sink. Yesterday I called her to relay an issue with it. She agreed to stop by (maybe) yesterday. Of course, that didn't work out. Meanwhile, I dropped my phone in water and couldn't revive it for a few hours. I rushed around hoping to contact my running date via e-mail and Brandon to confirm our potential meetups. Brandon and I met for wine at Trix and Jeff and I ran a loop around the lake. Thankfully, I had both of their e-mail accounts. I met Jeff for the run and returned home to find that my phone was functioning. Yea. Super happy to not have to buy yet another phone.
The run went well. He increased his pace and agreed to sign up for a half marathon. It's time and I told him so. I said, quit saying, I will never run a half marathon....you're right, you won't with that attitude. However, 2012 is a new year and an excellent time to attempt a 1/2. That is what I told him while running the loop. I think we are committed to a weekly run.
Returning home, I found that my landlord had called to let me know that she would be over between 9-10 this morning to check out the kitchen sink issue. I have figured out that she is like most landlords--unwilling to fix a problem in a timely manner. I wonder if I was late a few days with rent what my consequences would be. Today, she called to say, I am sorry, but I have other issues to attend to. I could stop by Saturday, no, Sunday. You can just turn the valve off til I am able to look into it. WTF? Why am I paying you to not take my calls seriously? Annoyed to say the least.
In addition to the insomnia, I was congested. Reminder, I need to take care of myself. My immune system is weak (apparently). I hate being sick. Instead of attending the wine tasting this afternoon, I postponed it for a week and scheduled a massage, tomorrow. I think it will be an ideal way to rid myself of more toxins. Also, I might be able to sleep tonight. I remain hopeful and excited for upcoming massage. It is going to be a wonderful day.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Insomnia (again)
Insomnia. Awesome. This seems to be the way I wake up lately. Thinking, reflecting, unable to stop analyzing (something, whatever) and so I go on-line to fully wake up and embrace the new day. Foolish. I could definitely use a few more hours of sleep. Jan told me when this happens I should try eating a handful of almonds to reset my blood sugar. Maybe tomorrow night. It could happen.
Tonight, I have a running date planned. My partner, Jeff, is friendly and accomodating. He drives down from Cave Creek to run a lake loop with me. For me, it would be way too far to only run a loop. He is new to running and just wanting to establish a routine. I hope to motivate him to sign up for a half instead of continuing to believe that he will never be able to do one. I thought like that once, too, and now have completed eight half marathons. I know it is up to him to decide that he wants to complete a half marathon. I am here to help him build a running foundation.
I work, today, and think about all of the necessary tasks that we should be doing on a daily basis. Deep cleaning wise. Thankfully, we have the bar mat removal set up already. Justin and I both agreed to have that task managed. We talk about other chores but neither of us have mandated that it happen. I keep waiting for him to do it and I think he believes the same. Ultimately, I will end up figuring out a cleaning schedule due to annoyance of it not being done. I like a clean work area and recognize that although I believe it's common sense to clean the cooler out, under the bar mats, etc., not everyone else feels the same way. It's easier to think that someone else is doing that task. Guilty, here, too. Until today. I will start the cleaning schedule to stop being lazy.
After work and the mandatory running date, I arranged to meet up with an old friend of mine. Brandon and I go way back to the my earlier stint in the valley. We met since he lived across the street from the bar I worked at. According to him, I was his favorite bartender and we struck up a quick friendship. From knowing him, I have cultivated a few lifetime friends--Carrie and Cedric in Las Vegas to note a few. Brandon is extremely busy and rarely do our schedules align. He has teaching, work and an active social life. Let's just say he can be nonstop drama if he chooses. In the recent past, we have attempted a meet up drink/wine and it's never occurred due to constantly changing schedules. However, I am determined, tonight, to make it work. He lives a half mile from me and there are several establishments within walking distance that will provide drinks. I am leaning towards an outdoor bar with an extensive wine list. As Brandon noted, it would be a nice nod to our past. I agree.
I think of my next month. I have a friend visiting me and a half marathon to complete. Jean is returning to Phoenix to see me. It's ironic. The reconnect with Brandon and Jean's visit both are things that I had in my life while living here the first go around. Actually, Phoenix is the only place that Jean has visited me at. Otherwise, it's always been me going to her. Seattle is not a bad place to visit...just saying.
I would love to return to San Diego to explore Temecula if at all possible. Or, I could postpone that venture til Shari and my annual trip at the end of February. We are still undecided on how to celebrate Brians' anniversary. It will be six years. I cannot believe it. Last year, we went diving in Belize and at the seven year mark, we plan on a spiritual trip. We considered Sri Lanka but I think we both agree that a warmer climate is enticing.
The six year anniversary will be be lovely and low key. San Diego is close, Sedona is a destination that has eluded us in the past or we could drive to Santa Fe. Either way, we will begin the celebration in the southwest. Phoenix could work, too. Staycation.
I want my dad to visit and need to arrange that, too. He should be returning to Missouri today and have time to look at his schedule.
Healthwise, outside of running, I hope to work on my upper body strength. Until I seriously research a gym membership, I have a strength training video that seems to work. Then there's yoga. I want to find a studio that will welcome me. In Denver, I frequented the--McDonald's of yoga studios--acccording to an acquaintance of mine and after some consideration agreed with her. They didn't cap class size which annoyed me after awhile. I tired of having to arrive 30 minutes early to find a space for my mat. This company continues to grow which is awesome for them but I ended my membership. I want to find a studio here that has a great flow series and is in the east valley. When I first returned, I found a studio in east mesa that I liked. The instructor, Vanessa, was approachable and open to suggestions. I loved that about her, still do, but they changed the concept to a yin style class. I am uninterested in holding a pose for five+ minutes and so that studio no longer was an option. I figure that I will stumble into the ideal studio and soon. There must be a groupon or living social deal that specializes in this need of mine.
Well, now that it's six, I might as well make coffee. If I experience insomnia, again, I will find almonds....
Tonight, I have a running date planned. My partner, Jeff, is friendly and accomodating. He drives down from Cave Creek to run a lake loop with me. For me, it would be way too far to only run a loop. He is new to running and just wanting to establish a routine. I hope to motivate him to sign up for a half instead of continuing to believe that he will never be able to do one. I thought like that once, too, and now have completed eight half marathons. I know it is up to him to decide that he wants to complete a half marathon. I am here to help him build a running foundation.
I work, today, and think about all of the necessary tasks that we should be doing on a daily basis. Deep cleaning wise. Thankfully, we have the bar mat removal set up already. Justin and I both agreed to have that task managed. We talk about other chores but neither of us have mandated that it happen. I keep waiting for him to do it and I think he believes the same. Ultimately, I will end up figuring out a cleaning schedule due to annoyance of it not being done. I like a clean work area and recognize that although I believe it's common sense to clean the cooler out, under the bar mats, etc., not everyone else feels the same way. It's easier to think that someone else is doing that task. Guilty, here, too. Until today. I will start the cleaning schedule to stop being lazy.
After work and the mandatory running date, I arranged to meet up with an old friend of mine. Brandon and I go way back to the my earlier stint in the valley. We met since he lived across the street from the bar I worked at. According to him, I was his favorite bartender and we struck up a quick friendship. From knowing him, I have cultivated a few lifetime friends--Carrie and Cedric in Las Vegas to note a few. Brandon is extremely busy and rarely do our schedules align. He has teaching, work and an active social life. Let's just say he can be nonstop drama if he chooses. In the recent past, we have attempted a meet up drink/wine and it's never occurred due to constantly changing schedules. However, I am determined, tonight, to make it work. He lives a half mile from me and there are several establishments within walking distance that will provide drinks. I am leaning towards an outdoor bar with an extensive wine list. As Brandon noted, it would be a nice nod to our past. I agree.
I think of my next month. I have a friend visiting me and a half marathon to complete. Jean is returning to Phoenix to see me. It's ironic. The reconnect with Brandon and Jean's visit both are things that I had in my life while living here the first go around. Actually, Phoenix is the only place that Jean has visited me at. Otherwise, it's always been me going to her. Seattle is not a bad place to visit...just saying.
I would love to return to San Diego to explore Temecula if at all possible. Or, I could postpone that venture til Shari and my annual trip at the end of February. We are still undecided on how to celebrate Brians' anniversary. It will be six years. I cannot believe it. Last year, we went diving in Belize and at the seven year mark, we plan on a spiritual trip. We considered Sri Lanka but I think we both agree that a warmer climate is enticing.
The six year anniversary will be be lovely and low key. San Diego is close, Sedona is a destination that has eluded us in the past or we could drive to Santa Fe. Either way, we will begin the celebration in the southwest. Phoenix could work, too. Staycation.
I want my dad to visit and need to arrange that, too. He should be returning to Missouri today and have time to look at his schedule.
Healthwise, outside of running, I hope to work on my upper body strength. Until I seriously research a gym membership, I have a strength training video that seems to work. Then there's yoga. I want to find a studio that will welcome me. In Denver, I frequented the--McDonald's of yoga studios--acccording to an acquaintance of mine and after some consideration agreed with her. They didn't cap class size which annoyed me after awhile. I tired of having to arrive 30 minutes early to find a space for my mat. This company continues to grow which is awesome for them but I ended my membership. I want to find a studio here that has a great flow series and is in the east valley. When I first returned, I found a studio in east mesa that I liked. The instructor, Vanessa, was approachable and open to suggestions. I loved that about her, still do, but they changed the concept to a yin style class. I am uninterested in holding a pose for five+ minutes and so that studio no longer was an option. I figure that I will stumble into the ideal studio and soon. There must be a groupon or living social deal that specializes in this need of mine.
Well, now that it's six, I might as well make coffee. If I experience insomnia, again, I will find almonds....
Monday, January 2, 2012
Monday Memory
Granted, this was last Monday, but what a sight. Pure bliss. I love the ocean and it was a beautiful day. I should have taken photos of my breakfast burrito or fish taco that accompanied my San Diego adventure. Well, maybe not. They were good, but I believe, there are others that are phenomenal. You know, the ones that you cannot stop talking about.
For example, I lived in Guadalajara, Mexico, for a few months while in college. Spanish language requirement and all. Monday-Friday, we walked by a fish taco stand, admired the guy's fitness and mocked his teeth. I know, immature, especially, after seven months of commenting that his teeth were jacked up, we realized that he knew english and had heard every time we talked about his teeth. Humbled, we decided to finally try his fish tacos. They were amazing and then we kicked ourselves for not trying them earlier in the summer. He offered fish, calamari and shrimp tacos. I bet Jean still remembers how fantastic the baja tacos were. That is what I am determined to find in San Diego during my next visit. Since it is close to Phoenix and I want to check out Temecula too, I see, a visit in the near future.
Regardless, Happy Monday and enjoy~
I couldn't resist revisiting how glorious last Monday was. Stunning day. I wish that I was there now instead of heading into work later today. I love my cellar job but miss having only one day off a week. On my day off, I do laundry, run errands, and ultimately, find a wine bar. Shocking, right? I miss the days of having two days off in a row. Travel easily happened. Last night, I made pasta with vegetables and tossed it with a tomato sauce. I want to use my kitchen more and stop dining out unnecessarily. Moreover, I want to utilize in season vegetables. The new year motivates me to alter some of my habits and work on my weaknesses. Last year, my sister, Jade, told me--pick up some meat for dinner. I remarked, that isn't really in my wheel house. I like cooking but what I am comfortable with. Coming from her, she has three kids and it's normal to have a protein, starch and vegetables whereas I could live on guacamole, salsa and chips. I convinced her that if I were in charge of dinner, well, then I would make what I was comfortable with. I did not pick up any protein that evening.
Sangiovese accompanied my pasta last night. Lovely. I made some reference to it on facebook and my friend, Agnese, told me I should visit Italy if I enjoyed the sangiovese. I concur. I hope to visit her this year. Italy is a place that I have dreamed of going. Food, wine, olive oil, etc....history, museums and wine, again. I feel it is time to set my sights on it and make it a priority.
Until them, enjoy your day and I will enjoy remembering last Monday.
For example, I lived in Guadalajara, Mexico, for a few months while in college. Spanish language requirement and all. Monday-Friday, we walked by a fish taco stand, admired the guy's fitness and mocked his teeth. I know, immature, especially, after seven months of commenting that his teeth were jacked up, we realized that he knew english and had heard every time we talked about his teeth. Humbled, we decided to finally try his fish tacos. They were amazing and then we kicked ourselves for not trying them earlier in the summer. He offered fish, calamari and shrimp tacos. I bet Jean still remembers how fantastic the baja tacos were. That is what I am determined to find in San Diego during my next visit. Since it is close to Phoenix and I want to check out Temecula too, I see, a visit in the near future.
Regardless, Happy Monday and enjoy~
I couldn't resist revisiting how glorious last Monday was. Stunning day. I wish that I was there now instead of heading into work later today. I love my cellar job but miss having only one day off a week. On my day off, I do laundry, run errands, and ultimately, find a wine bar. Shocking, right? I miss the days of having two days off in a row. Travel easily happened. Last night, I made pasta with vegetables and tossed it with a tomato sauce. I want to use my kitchen more and stop dining out unnecessarily. Moreover, I want to utilize in season vegetables. The new year motivates me to alter some of my habits and work on my weaknesses. Last year, my sister, Jade, told me--pick up some meat for dinner. I remarked, that isn't really in my wheel house. I like cooking but what I am comfortable with. Coming from her, she has three kids and it's normal to have a protein, starch and vegetables whereas I could live on guacamole, salsa and chips. I convinced her that if I were in charge of dinner, well, then I would make what I was comfortable with. I did not pick up any protein that evening.
Sangiovese accompanied my pasta last night. Lovely. I made some reference to it on facebook and my friend, Agnese, told me I should visit Italy if I enjoyed the sangiovese. I concur. I hope to visit her this year. Italy is a place that I have dreamed of going. Food, wine, olive oil, etc....history, museums and wine, again. I feel it is time to set my sights on it and make it a priority.
Until them, enjoy your day and I will enjoy remembering last Monday.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
happiness
It's here. Happy 2012! Beautiful morning, coffee and made myself breakfast. Scrambled eggs with jalapenos, onions, zucchini and peppers. Yummy. Yes, this is going to be a spectacular year.
Last night, I worked and although it was not as busy as I had hoped it would be, it was still pleasant and I toasted the new year with sam adams. My boss thought it would be different to have a beer toast instead of the traditional champagne. I agreed. We are a beer bar.
I drove home and the minute I entered Tempe, there were police everywhere. The block party was part of the increased feel of police and it was a holiday. I arrived safely at my house and reflected on the last year before going to bed. As previously noted, 2011 was about personal growth, adaptation and compassion. I feel I greatly benefitted and am now ready for something different. I feel fantastic about the possibilities of 2012.
There is running (always and with the Goddess), wine inspired weekends/trips and a friend is getting married in September. Somehow, I agreed to be her maid of honor. I am out of practice in that regard and lately, been reminded how "earthy" I am. Translation--not that girlie or equipped for the shopping for dresses aspect of the wedding. I can plan a fantastic dinner but the whole let's go gab and shop is out of my realm of expertise. I think I have been referred to as "granola" lately, too. Whatever.
I am excited for their nuptials but they fall a week before my birthday and I had hoped to celebrate in Napa as Brian would have been 30 this year and that seems like the ideal place to toast his birthday./ Shari and I discussed a potential celebratory spot before I remembered I had other commitments. Still, I might be able to do both. Just need to make it work with the job.
I must reflect later on this. Works calls....
Last night, I worked and although it was not as busy as I had hoped it would be, it was still pleasant and I toasted the new year with sam adams. My boss thought it would be different to have a beer toast instead of the traditional champagne. I agreed. We are a beer bar.
I drove home and the minute I entered Tempe, there were police everywhere. The block party was part of the increased feel of police and it was a holiday. I arrived safely at my house and reflected on the last year before going to bed. As previously noted, 2011 was about personal growth, adaptation and compassion. I feel I greatly benefitted and am now ready for something different. I feel fantastic about the possibilities of 2012.
There is running (always and with the Goddess), wine inspired weekends/trips and a friend is getting married in September. Somehow, I agreed to be her maid of honor. I am out of practice in that regard and lately, been reminded how "earthy" I am. Translation--not that girlie or equipped for the shopping for dresses aspect of the wedding. I can plan a fantastic dinner but the whole let's go gab and shop is out of my realm of expertise. I think I have been referred to as "granola" lately, too. Whatever.
I am excited for their nuptials but they fall a week before my birthday and I had hoped to celebrate in Napa as Brian would have been 30 this year and that seems like the ideal place to toast his birthday./ Shari and I discussed a potential celebratory spot before I remembered I had other commitments. Still, I might be able to do both. Just need to make it work with the job.
I must reflect later on this. Works calls....
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