TSC Girl Tees Off

2011-11-02T21:58:00.003-04:00

COUNTDOWN TO A BRAND NEW LIFE

I am getting married in 9 days and moving halfway across the country in 13 days. DAMN - real life has not only begun, it is on fast forward!!

2011-06-06T13:08:00.005-04:00

MORE BAR-BRI NEWS

I got another check last week for sixty some-odd dollars. Shocked again! For the nosy folks out there, my last award check was summarily eaten by mandatory car repairs about four days after I received it. *le sigh*

Did anyone else reading get paid??

See previous Bar-Bri posts.

In other news, waiting to hear back after my first in-person interview in my new state. Stalled waiting for the next big step - AGAIN.

2011-04-25T13:36:00.002-04:00

RANDOM UPDATE

Just in case anyone is still reading, I thought I should tell you that I am engaged and leaving New Jersey for the wild southwest. This means another bar exam, so you may be seeing me on a regular basis again.

You may now resume your day. ;)

2011-02-14T20:49:00.003-05:00

BAR BRI CLASS ACTION UPDATE

WOW, Have not heard anything on this front since 2006! Well, color me shocked; I got a check in the mail today from BarBri for a little over $300! Never expected that to happen!

The accompanying letter says that it is a partial award and that the balance of the settlement fund will be distributed "After all outstanding appeals have been resolved". I think that pretty much the entire leftover funds will be eaten by attorneys fees (oh the irony), but still a check is a check. Being in the non-profit sector, I never turn away cash! Anyone other readers out there get paid?

If you want to see all of my previous posts on this topic go HERE.

2009-09-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted in almost a year. Recently, I have found that there is a lot I'd like to say. Maybe I should start blogging again ....

2008-12-08T10:34:00.002-05:00

REAL LIFE BEGINNING IN 5 ... 4 ... 3 ...

Yes, it has been far too long since I posted. A lot has happened, and I will try to be better, although with all these changes , I make no promises.

Well, it seems to have taken FOREVER, but my "real life" is beginning. I have a new job that I started in October. I love it more than I can say. I am working as an attorney for a non-profit in Central Jersey, the staff is great, my director is amazing and the work is fulfilling. And next month I am FINALLY moving into my own apartment. For the first time in my life I won't have family or roommates sharing my space. I'm a little nervous and a lot excited!! This post was a long, long three years ago, but things finally seem to be moving into place.

The student loan people continue to try to suck me dry, and there have been some emotional upheavals along the way, but the tally sheet is in the black at the moment. There will be much for me to celebrate this new year's!!!

2008-12-05T16:43:00.000-05:00

Now THESE are some holiday cards!

My friend designed these awesome cards - check them out!

Want to win FREE Greeting cards? Learn how!

2008-10-12T23:47:00.000-04:00

I'M A MARILYN

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You Are a Marilyn!

You are a Marilyn -- "I am affectionate and skeptical."

Marilyns are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.

How to Get Along with Me

* Be direct and clear

* Listen to me carefully

* Don't judge me for my anxiety

* Work things through with me

* Reassure me that everything is OK between us

* Laugh and make jokes with me

* Gently push me toward new experiences

* Try not to overreact to my overreacting.

What I Like About Being a Marilyn

* being committed and faithful to family and friends

* being responsible and hardworking

* being compassionate toward others

* having intellect and wit

* being a nonconformist

* confronting danger bravely

* being direct and assertive

What's Hard About Being a Marilyn

* the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind

* procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself

* fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of

* exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger

* wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right

* being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations

Marilyns as Children Often

* are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn

* are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger

* form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent

* look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel

* are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent

Marilyns as Parents

* are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty

* are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence

* worry more than most that their children will get hurt

* sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries

Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz at HelloQuizzy

2008-09-08T09:39:00.002-04:00

STILL HERE

I'm not dead, just been overwhelmed with other things. I was traveling for work, then I was out of commission for weeks with pneumonia. [I know, who gets pneumonia in the summer?!]

Friday's Feast back soon, and perhaps even an actual post! Stay tuned.

2008-06-11T11:23:00.001-04:00

THE MOM SONG

So funny I had to share ...

Do moms get some kind of handbook when they become parents or does this woman know my mom personally?? So spot on, LOL!

2008-06-03T16:12:00.003-04:00

HEMATITE

I bought a hematite ring in New Hope, PA a couple of weeks ago. I knew it would help ground me and repel negativity. The last time I bought one, on my 30th Bday, it shattered about a month after I started wearing it. Apparently I overwhelmed another one:

I've had a lot going on recently as far as intense emotion followed by surprising calm. I see the situation, see the catalyst and let all the anger and hurt just float away. It sounds flakey, but I was happily surprised about the development of my psyche. I felt almost enlightened and increasingly positive the past couple of weeks. While there are a number of factors, I think that ring played a part. So I decided [in my typical law school brain-washed way] to do some research.

From Jewelry Supplier:

For those who follow the Wicca, New Age or believe in the Spirit World, Crystals, Minerals, Rocks, Semi-Precious Stones and metals can have powers for Astral Travel, Aura Cleansing, Channeling, Cosmic Awareness, Crystal Healing, ESP, Meditation, Psychic Communication, Psychic Energy and Transcendental Meditation. They also believe a crystal can have crystal magic that gives it the ability to connect to spirits, spirit guides, spiritual energy and help with channeling spirits and increase cosmic awareness.

Followers of the New Age religion believe that as the symbol of the Roman God of War, Hematite is a stone of protection, a belief originating from the Roman belief that it could protect and strengthen warriors going into a battle. In modern times, the powers of protection that spiritualists apply to the stone has expanded into the spiritual realm, where they believe Hematite can transform or absorb negativity or evil. It is also a worry stone with excellent emotional grounding properties that calm the mind and clears it of the distractions of stress. In this state, the person is ready for exploration of higher levels of consciousness. With this calming effect, they consider it helpful in meditation leading to astral projection and the communication of love’s energy. Further, they say that Hematite is a lawyers’ stone that brings positive judgments in legal matters and it is a stone that helps one remain true to his or her inner self. Hematite is associated with the Wicca Sabbats of Imbolc, a celebration of the approach of Spring and Samhain, which is Halloween, the Wicca New Year.

The number 4 and number 7 vibrations correspond to Hematite.

From Meta Stones:

Popular as a New Age, Pagan and Wicca gemstone hematite is considered to help in healing blood related ailments such as anemia, heart, kidney and liver diseases, cardio-vascular weakness, menstrual cramps, and nose bleeds.
Hematite has a wonderfully grounded energy with the ability to bring about a calm mental state, improve memory, mental focus and concentration, bolster self-confidence and practicality in everyday matters whilst increase the effectiveness of logical processes of the brain. It is a stone of protection and strength.

From Tween the Shadows:

Hematite The root "hem/o" means "blood". When ground or cut, this blackish grey metallic stone forms a reddish powder. Hematite forms a reflective shield around the wearer, letting negativity bounce off and return to the sender. The bearer should remember however, that their own negativity will be reflected to them if they are its source. It is therefore a "lesson stone," teaching the aware to release and ground their negativity. It heals and cleanses the blood and improves memory.

Excerpts from: Controverscial:
Written and compiled by - Patricia Jean Martin [Emphasis Mine]

Metaphysical Properties:
Astrological Sign(s): Capricorn, Aries

Element(s): Earth, Water

Chakra(s): Root

Mental attunement, Clarity, Focus, Memory enhancement, Courage, Strength, Grounding, Cooling, Clearing, Calm reasoning, Promotes tranquility, Dissolves negativity, Meditative, Promotes self-control, strength, stability, originality, Attracts harmony, Protection.

[Her] own thoughts and experiences:

No pun intended, but Hematite does have what I call an Iron Will. It is a very pragmatic stone - an Iron Maiden, although Iron Master may be more fitting, as it exhibits a strong vital masculine quality. Not only does it get to the root of any issue, the blood and guts of what is surrounding you... but once there, it will make you face what it is showing you and will push you hard to see those bare-naked facts that are staring you in the face. It will also then prompt you to act on those facts in whatever way need be, by lending you courage, strength and protection.

I find Hematite is a powerful stone for divination - I have a pendulum made of Hematite and it works very well, much better than two others I possess. Hematite's head-straight-for-the-root properties I believe make it an excellent choice for the purpose of divination. It is also good for scrying.

Hematite is an excellent choice of stone for any mental clarity that one may need or desire to obtain. One of our customers orders pounds of this polished mineral and proceeds to distribute it to her students, and is now teaching widely about the useful qualities of Hematite. She feels...and quite rightly so...that Hematite promotes a clarity of mind and the mental adroitness to help children (and adults) when taking tests or studying. It does this by being able to cut through and clear away the extraneous and the trivial - it has the ability to sort the wheat from the chaff so to speak - and thus allows for keen focus on the main and most important root facts. I find in working with the stone that it clears my head and takes me out of the clouds (as Air and its realm sometimes suits this Libran all too well!); it lends stability, but does not inhibit forward movement and, in fact, promotes it. In that, it also inspires one to achieve. I feel it is a creation stone. Hematite can plant my feet firmly on the ground and better connect me with the Earth, but, unlike other grounding stones, it tends to help me integrate the physical, mental and the spiritual. It helps me understand the very basic building blocks upon which we can more readily understand how to move with the natural flow of things. Through that, I obtain strength, vitality and a will to be one with the mountains as I go about moving them.

Hematite is a strong and courageous stone. It is somewhat grounding, and yet forceful as it magnifies the succinct essence of any situation and any thought. It takes you to the very beginning of an issue... to its essence...to its core. Personally, it will allow you to feel the very quintessential message and rhythm of your mission here. In that, it is the perfect stone for helping one gain a better understanding of "as above, so below." It asks you to remember and to honor that which you came here for. It helps you see clearly what you are perfectly capable of manifesting here on Earth while working in your truest form of Spirit. It asks you to be you. Right here and right now.

And finally;
From Witchcraft Supplies:

Droplets of Dragon's Blood were believed to be the source for Hematite. Known to Enhance Mental Capabilities, Hematite will encourage you to reach your full potential by breaking the barries of self-limitation. A wonderful grounding stone, Hematite will aid you in achieving Peace, Self-Control and Inner Happiness.

Wow, it's like this stone was meant for me. I think I might drape myself in hematite. :)

2008-05-24T21:19:00.002-04:00

BORROWED FROM Angry Pregnant Lawyer

These are the top 106 books tagged "unread" at LibraryThing (which I haven't previously heard of).

Bold the ones you’ve read, underline the ones you read for school, and italicize the ones you started but didn’t finish.

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell
Anna Karenina
One Hundred Years of Solitude
Crime and Punishment
Wuthering Heights
Catch-22
The Silmarillion
Don Quixote
The Odyssey
The Brothers Karamazov
Ulysses
War and Peace
Madame Bovary
A Tale of Two Cities
Jane Eyre
The Name of the Rose
Moby Dick
Emma
The Iliad
Vanity Fair
Love in the Time of Cholera
The Blind Assassin
Pride and Prejudice
The Historian: A Novel
The Canterbury Tales
The Kite Runner
Great Expectations - I esp. loved this one.
Life of Pi
The Time Traveler's Wife
Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies
Atlas Shrugged
Foucault's Pendulum
Dracula
The Grapes of Wrath
Frankenstein
A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius
Mrs. Dalloway
Sense and Sensibility
Middlemarch
Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books (This one is on my Amazon wish list.)
The Count of Monte Cristo
The Sound and The Fury
Memoirs of a Geisha
Brave New World
Quicksilver
American Gods
Middlesex
The Poisonwood Bible
Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
The Picture of Dorian Gray - Now that I finally saw League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, I want to read this
Dune - read quite a few of the sequels as well
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man
The Satanic Verses
Mansfield Park
Gulliver's Travels
The Three Musketeers
The Inferno
The Corrections
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay
The Fountainhead
Tess of the D'Urbervilles (bleh)
Oliver Twist
To the Lighthouse
A Clockwork Orange
Robinson Crusoe
Persuasion
The Scarlet Letter
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
The Once and Future King
Anansi Boys
Atonement
The God of Small Things
A Short History of Nearly Everything
Cryptonomicon
Dubliners
Oryx and Crake
Angela's Ashes
Beloved
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
In Cold Blood
Lady Chatterley's Lover - This was disappointing
A Confederacy of Dunces
Les Misérables - I guess the musical doesn't count
The Amber Spyglass
The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli
Watership Down
Beowulf: A New Verse Translation
The Aeneid
A Farewell to Arms
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Treasure Island
David Copperfield
Sons and Lovers
Possession
The Book Thief
The history of Tom Jones
The Road
Tender is the Night
The War of the Worlds

Any really good ones I should immediately add to by "read" list?

2008-05-18T20:00:00.006-04:00

CATCHING UP ON SOME FEASTS

You're going to get a stomach ache from this one, FIVE feasts now being served!

Feast One Hundred & Ninety One
May 16th, 2008

Appetizer
What is the nearest big city to your home?
Philadelphia, New York City and Atlantic City; pretty much in equal measure.

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how well do you keep secrets?
9.5

Salad
Describe your hair (color, texture, length).
Long and brown with highlights, thick and curly if left to its own devices.

Main Course
What kind of driver are you? Courteous? Aggressive? Slow?
I am very impatient, so I tend to be an aggressive driver, I don't like to speed unless I am running horribly late, but I can't stand pokey drivers or people who inhibit the flow of traffic. If you are turning then signal, and if you are making a right turn then MOVE OVER.

Dessert
When was the last time you had a really bad week?
An entire week? Luckily I don't remember.

Feast One Hundred & Ninety
May 9th, 2008

Appetizer
When someone smiles at you, do you smile back?
Yes

Soup
Describe the flooring in your home. Do you have carpet, hardwood, vinyl, a mix?
Mix of carpet, hardwood and tile

Salad
Write a sentence with only 5 words, but all of the words have to start with the first letter of your first name.
The tarantula tripped towards town.

Main Course
Do you know anyone whose life has been touched by adoption?
Yes, from both sides.

Dessert
Name 2 blue things.
the sky and viagra

Feast One Hundred & Eighty Nine
May 2nd, 2008

Appetizer
What was your favorite cartoon when you were a child?
The Smurfs and the Gummy Bears

Soup
Pretend you are about to get a new pet. Which animal would you pick, and what would you name it?
A kitten, and I couldn't name it without seeing it and knowing its personality.

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy getting all dressed up for a special occasion?
7

Main Course
What kind of music do you listen to while you drive?
It depends on my mood, sometimes French love songs, rock, Russian punk, Top 40

Dessert
When was the last time you bought a clock? And in which room did you put it?
Years ago, it was a grape clock for my kitchen

Feast One Hundred & Eighty Eight
April 25th, 2008

Appetizer
Name something you would categorize as weird.
men - LOL

Soup
What color was the last piece of food you ate?
white, it was a bite of ice cream

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy being alone?
Again, it depends on my mood. If I need some alone time then 10, but when I am lonely obviously it's more like 2 or 3. In general, being a lone isn't a bad thing at all, unless I am at either end of the spectrum I generally enjoy it at about an 8. Even if I don't NEED to be alone, I still like it.

Main Course
Fill in the blank: I will _________ vote for ___________ in _______.
I will perhaps vote for a Democrat in November.

Dessert
Describe your sleeping habits.
Absolutely must have a fan on, I like to sleep in an little as possible and I tend to sleep on only one side of the bed and I like a lot of pillows.

Feast One Hundred & Eighty Seven
April 18th, 2008

Appetizer
Name a color you find soothing.
blue

Soup
Using 20 or less words, describe your first driving experience.
I was nervous, I was with my driving instructor and he took me out on the Garden State Parkway!!!

Salad
What material is your favorite item of clothing made out of?
cotton

Main Course
Who is a great singer or musician who, if they were to come to your town for a concert, you would spend the night outside waiting for tickets to see?
Do people even do this anymore?? I would have to say Billy Joel.

Dessert
What is the most frequent letter of the alphabet in your whole name (first, middle, maiden, last, etc.)?
S

2008-05-15T13:24:00.002-04:00

HEE HEE

Stephan Pastis, the author of Pearls Before Swine is hysterically brilliant. To wit:

2008-05-02T01:20:00.001-04:00

JUST BECAUSE IT MADE ME LAUGH

Whips and chains make you smile

'What is your Fortune?' at QuizUniverse.com

2008-04-06T23:51:00.009-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - DOUBLE HELPING

Feast One Hundred & Eighty Five March 28th, 2008 Appetizer
What does the color dark green make you think of?
The forest

Soup
How many cousins do you have?
Too many. First cousins, at last count there are 11, but I only speak to 3 of them.

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how honest are you?
8

Main Course
Name something that is truly free.
The mints at the movie theater ;)

Dessert
Using the letters in the word SPRING, write a sentence.
Sally pranced 'round in new galoshes.

Feast One Hundred & Eighty Six April 4th, 2008
Appetizer
Invent a new flower; give it a name and describe it.
Spectrum daisies; they would look like gerbera daisies, but each petal would be a different color, like those rainbow roses.

Soup
Name someone whom you think has a wonderful voice.
Celine Dion

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how clean do you keep your car?
5 I keep meaning to go to the car wash, then it doesn't happen. I do try to keep garbage and such in a plastic bag.

Main Course
How do you feel about poetry?
Good poetry can be very moving, writing poetry can be cathartic.

Dessert
What was the last person/place/thing you took a picture of?
Friends who went out to dinner w/ me for my bday.

2008-03-28T14:25:00.003-04:00

NEW DOCUMENTARY WEIGHS IN ON THE AGE OLD DEBATE

If you live in Bergen County you are most certainly in NORTH Jersey, Atlantic City falls quarely in SOUTH Jersey. CENTRAL Jersey is defined a million different ways, and everyone has a distinguishing factor. If you live in NJ, especially anywhere that is not obviously north or south this is a never-ending debate.

NJ Monthly Magazine had a cover story on it back in Janurary of '05, and various folks have made declarations over the years. The Newark Star Ledger added to the debate this week by flouting a new combination documetary/book/blog in their article Drawing the Line.

Filmmaker Steve Chernoski has heard them all. The Hoboken resident is making a documentary about the "Where's the dividing line between North and South Jersey?" question-- and why New Jerseyans are so passionate about their answers.

Some interesting lines of demarcation used are:

Route 195
whether you cheer for the Philadelphia Eagles or the New York Giants
if you refer to a certain sandwich as a "hoagie" or a "sub"
how close the nearest Wawa is

What do YOU use to distinguish? And for the Garden State dwellers; do you consider yourself north, south or central? Post your comments here, or get in on the debate at Chernoski's blog nsjersey.blogspot.com

2008-03-21T12:03:00.003-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 21, 2008
Feast One Hundred & Eighty Four

Appetizer
Given the choice, would you prefer to live in the country or in the city?
City - but only if I had a lot of money.

Soup
Who is the cutest kid you know?
My niece and nephew of course!

Salad
Fill in the blank: I couldn’t believe it when I heard ___________.
I couldn't believe it when I heard about the Spitzer scandel.

Main Course
If you could star in a commercial for one of your favorite products, which one would you want to advertise?
I'd like to do the ads for the shows on the cooking network. They are not really a "product", but I can come up with several ideas right off the top of my head for commercials.

Dessert
What type(s) of vitamins and/or supplements do you take on a regular basis?

A multi-vitamin and fish oil every day, and zinc when I am sick.

2008-03-14T01:21:00.007-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 14, 2008
Feast One Hundred & Eighty Three

Yes, I am on time, let's all whoop it up. I'm only posting now because I have a horrendous cold and I can't sleep. I missed work today since my voice refuses to work for more than five minutes at a clip (and even then I sound like Kathleen Turner on a ventilator). My job is 90% phone oriented, so even if I didn't feel like poo I wouldn't be able to go into the office. Basically, everything is sore from coughing, and my sinuses feel like I have been smashed in the face with a sledge hammer. Needless to say I am cranky - can you tell?!?!

On a brighter note, today is Pi Day! 3.1415926535897932384626433832795028841971693993751058209 74944592307816 ... you get the idea.

Anyway, on to the feast.

Appetizer
On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 as highest), how much do you like your own handwriting?
Most of the time I like my handwriting, although if I am rushed or tired it can be horrendous. I'd say about a 7.

Soup
Do you prefer baths or showers?
If I want to get clean, then I want a shower. I like baths to relax, but I don't feel clean afterwards, I feel like after soaking in my own dirt I need a shower!

Salad
What was the last bad movie you watched?
The last movie I saw that really disappointed me was The Family Stone. There were plot holes and inconsistencies. It wasn't a bad script or bad actors, it was a bad story. I felt like they skipped the editing part of the process. Poor SJP, she didn't deserve to be in such a dud, I don't know what she was thinking. (It must have been a phase for her because Failure to Launch was no great shakes either.)

Main Course
Name something you are addicted to and describe how it affects your life.
I am addicted to my cell phone. I don't talk on it excessively, and while I do text, also not to excess. I just need the safety net. What if I need to call someone and I forget later? What if someone is trying to reach me? What if I get lost or am running late? I just don't want to miss anything. I may forget my earrings or my lunch and I just suck it up, but if I forget my cell phone I am going back home to get it!

Dessert
Which instrument is your favorite to listen to?
I don't think I could pick just one. I enjoy the piano quite a lot. If I want to relax, nothing beats the harp. I also have an amazing violin CD that I adore. Also, if you consider the human voice an instrument, that opens up another whole genre. If you have ever heard monks chanting, you know the human voice can be melodious and soothing all on its own.

2008-03-12T22:27:00.001-04:00

INSPIRATIONAL VIDEO

This is a pretty amazing video and well worth the time to watch. If you have not already seen it somewhere on the internets, check it out.

2008-03-06T23:32:00.004-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 7, 2008
Feast One Hundred & Eighty Two

Appetizer
If you could be any current celebrity for one whole week, who would you want to be?
Oprah

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being highest), how much do you enjoy talking on the phone?
If I am in the car and I have the headset on then I would say about an 8, if I am home I avoid lengthy conversations b/c I don't have privacy.

Salad
Name a charitable organization to which you have donated (or would like to).
The United Way

Main Course
What is a food you like so much you could eat it every single day for a month?
I'm going to have to go with chocolate because there are so many different ways to eat it.

Dessert
Have you or anyone in your family had the flu this year?
no, thankfully!

2008-03-03T21:58:00.005-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - CATCHING UP

Well, I am off from work this week, so time to catch up!

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Nine
February 15th, 2008

Appetizer
Name one thing that is unique about you.
I have a passion for the color green that borders on obsessive, I cannot sleep unless there is a fan on in my room, 365 days a year and I have a scar above my left eye from stitches I had as a child.

Soup
Fill in the blank: My favorite _________ is __________ but I like _________ too.
My favorite season is autumn, but I like spring too.

Salad
What type of wood do you have for your home’s furnishings?
oak

Main Course
Who do you talk to most often on the phone?
My roommate from law school. She finally lives closer, but with crazy schedules I still don't see her that often, so we talk regularly while we are both driving home from work.

Dessert
What level of responsibility do you have in your job?
Officially I am pretty low on the totem pole, but I do a lot of other stuff that isn't technically my job to help keep things moving along in the office, since my supervisor does a lot of work from home.

Feast One Hundred & Eighty
February 22nd, 2008

Appetizer
Have you ever played a practical joke on anyone? If so, what did you do and who was your victim?
I am sure I have, but I can't really remember one right now.

Soup
What do your salt and pepper shakers look like?
wood, tall, pepper is a grinder

Salad
Where is the next place you plan to visit (on vacation or business)?
no imminent plans to travel

Main Course
What kind of lotion or cream do you use to keep your hands from getting too dry?
I have generic lotion in my bathroom, and I also have bottles of various scented lotions from Bath & Body Works stashed all around: downstairs, in my purse, on my desks; both home and work ....

Dessert
Make up a dessert, tell us its ingredients, and give it a name.
I do this all the time. Last time I made little chocolate purses, using sheets of phyllo dough, chocolate chips and chopped pecans. I served them on top of a raspberry and blueberry coulis.

Feast One Hundred & Eighty One
February 29th, 2008

Appetizer
Who was the last person you hugged?
my nephew (BTW this question makes this feast sound like a MySpace quiz)

Soup
Share a beauty or grooming trick or tip with us.
Pluck after a warm shower or bath, the heat and moisture will open your pores and it won't sting.

Salad
What does the color yellow make you think of?
sunlight, mustard, jaundice

Main Course
If you were to make your living as a photographer, what subject would your pictures revolve around?
nature

Dessert
What was the longest book you ever read?
The Mill on the Floss, it wasn't the longest page wise, but it was a boring story with a crappy ending and reading it seemed to take FOREVER. My recollection is based on reading it as a teenager, but I was so turned off by it then that I have never even considered re-reading it as an adult. Strictly speaking, I think the longest book I ever read was Conduct Unbecoming: Gays and Lesbians in the US Military. It was a fascinating history of treatment of homosexuals in the military. The hardcover was large in dimension and 784 pages. While I am neither in the military nor homosexual, this book was a real page turner for me.

2008-02-13T01:29:00.002-05:00

TRIPPY DUDE

You can either drop acid, or just watch this:

Some people have way too much time on their hands - or a really good dealer.

Via Two Timing the Cosmos

Sidenote: I am not late with Friday's Feast this week, there was no feast due to technical difficulties.

2008-02-07T15:58:00.000-05:00

HEE HEE

I really want to try this at my next party:

Kudos to Hilary B. Price.

2008-02-02T12:17:00.003-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - FEBRUARY 1, 2008

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Eight
Appetizer
What is your favorite kind of cereal?
Special K with Berries

Soup
When was the last time you purchased something for your home, what was it, and in which room did it go?
A shower curtain, months ago, guess which room.

Salad
What is the funniest commercial you’ve ever seen?
Toys R Us; where Geoffrey the giraffe calls other toy stores to see if they have Tickle Me Elmo in stock, and when they say "no" he says "well we dooooo!" Cracks me up!
Main Course
Make up a name for a company by using a spice and an animal (example: Cinnamon Monkey).
Coriander Butterfly

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I haven’t ______ since ______.
LOL, such a temptation to be dirty here, but I shall behave.
I haven't made a snowman since I was a kid.

2008-01-28T19:44:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - ROUND UP: THE FIRST OF 2008

I really need to be better about posting. I started doing the Feast so that I knew I would get in at least one post a week - we see how well that is working out. Need to try harder.

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Seven
January 25th, 2008
Appetizer
How many times per day do you usually laugh?
Clearly it depends on the day. Sometimes it's a lot, sometimes never.

Soup
What do your sunglasses look like?
Big, round bug-eyed, Jackie Onassis glasses. They're scratched but I wear them to drive anyway. I never buy expensive sunglasses as I am forever losing or breaking them. I used to have the most awesome pair, they were small and round like John Lennon glasses and they were in green frames and the lenses went from blue to green. I adored them - until my mother sat on them when she got into my car one day.

Salad
You win a free trip to anywhere on your continent, but you have to travel by train. Where do you go?
I go to the Grand Canyon, it seems like an amazing adventure, and I've never been there.

Main Course
Name one thing you consider a great quality about living in your town/city.
Close to 3 major metropolitan areas.

Dessert
If the sky could be another color, what color do you think would look best?
Pink! Ever watch a great sunset? Imagine if the sky looked like that ALL the time!

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Six
January 18th, 2008
Appetizer
What is your favorite beverage?
unsweetened, decaf iced tea

Soup
Name 3 things that are on your computer desk at home or work.
lamp, paperwork, post-its

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being highest), how honest do you think you are?
9.5 I hate lying.

Main Course
If you could change the name of one city in the world, what would you rename it and why?
I'd change Kansas City, Missouri. We have a Kansas City in KANSAS! We don't need two. Missouri should find their own name.

Dessert
What stresses you out? What calms you down?
Money (or lack thereof) stresses me out, music calms me down.

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Five
January 11th, 2008
Appetizer
What is your middle name? Would you change any of your names if you could? If so, what would you like to be called?
Not telling, no I would not change my name. (I'd change my last name if /when I get married.)

Soup
If you were a fashion designer, which fabrics, colors, and styles would you probably use the most?
Deep jewel colors, like purple, magenta and emerald in silks or satins.

Salad
What is your least favorite chore, and why?
Scrubbing the bathroom

Main Course
What is something that really frightens you, and can you trace it back to an event in your life?
Jumping bugs frighten me [crickets, grasshoppers, and especially praying mantises]. I was never fond of them, but then in junior high I was in our in-ground pool and a cricket jumped from the side of the pool right down the front of my bathing suit.

Dessert
Where are you sitting right now? Name 3 things you can see at this moment.
My room; I see books, my bed and my purse.

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Four
January 04th, 2008
Appetizer
When was the last time you received a surprise in the mail, and what was it?
I received a poem in the mail last week from a friend who said I was his inspiration for it.

Soup
If you could have a summer and/or winter home, where would you want it to be?
Bermuda; too bad the real estate tax for foreigners is 100%.

Salad
Pick one: pineapple, orange, banana, apple, cherry.
PINEAPPLE!

Main Course
Describe the nicest piece of clothing that you own.
I just got a beautiful new navy suit for Christmas.

Dessert
If you could forget one whole day from your life, which day would you choose to wipe from your memory?
All my past experiences make me who I am and forgetting any of them would change that.

2008-01-26T15:43:00.000-05:00

THAT'S NOT OFF BASE

Your Personality Profile

You are pure, moral, and adaptable.
You tend to blend into your surroundings.
Shy on the outside, you're outspoken to your friends.

You believe that you live a virtuous life...
And you tend to judge others with a harsh eye.
As a result, people tend to crave your approval.

The World's Shortest Personality Test

2008-01-25T13:28:00.000-05:00

ATTENTION GAMERS

My college roommate has started her own online store - check it out!!

*************************************************************************************
So, in order to promote my new store, (which is getting new products added to it constantly BTW, so if there is something that you are looking for, but can't find, if I can get it, I will get it to you) I would like to offer all of you a Grand Opening Surprise.

All you have to do is, go to My New Store: Gamers Most Wanted and sign up to get the newsletter. Not only will you be on top of all the new items and promotions running in my store, but I will send you a coupon, good for up to an additional 10% off everything in my store that is already at super low prices. So, Go..., Sign-up, Get the coupon and save.

Sign-up AND Cross-post this to your journal and I will send you something *special*, for FREE! Wow. I'm soooo, nice :)

2007-12-29T22:14:00.001-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - CATCH UP

It's been a month - bad, bad blogger. It was a crazy month. Let's just get these three weeks posted and hope for posts more often in 2008. Happy & Merry to everyone!

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Three
December 28th, 2007
Appetizer
Name 2 things you would like to accomplish in 2008.
New job, new apt.

Soup
With which cartoon character do you share personality traits?

Marvin the Martian; I love green and ppl tick me off often enough that sometimes I feel like just blowing something up.

Salad
What time of day (or night) were you born?
I was born about 9:30 pm, my mother had been in labor since mid afternoon the previous day - she never lets me forget this fact.

Main Course
Tell us something special about your hometown.
It has a lot of open space because it is legally protected.

Dessert
If you could receive a letter from anyone in the world, who would you want to get one from?
I probably should pick a world leader or famous scientist, but instead I am going to say someone from my past who I wish freverently was part of my present. This letter would, of course, contain all the things I want to hear from him.

Feast One Hundred & Seventy Two
December 14th, 2007
Appetizer
Make up a word and give us its definition.
liquocreme - an ice cream type product that has alcohol has its base. This product would be so strong it would require ID to purchase it.

Soup
What is currently your favorite song?
"I Hope I Get It" from A Chorus Line for the following stanza: I really need this job.
Please God, I need this job. I've got to get this job.

Salad
What’s at the top of your Christmas wish list this year?
I wanted books and a new mattress pad, and I got both.

Main Course
Name a scent that reminds you of someone special in your life.
baby powder reminds me of my mom

Dessert
Who is someone on television that you feel probably shouldn’t be, and why?
Jerry Springer - he capitalizes on other people's bad situations

Feast One Hundred & Seventy One
December 07th, 2007
Appetizer
What was the last game you purchased?
Madden 08 for PS2 for my brother

Soup
Name something in which you don’t believe.
I don't believe in any religion that tells you that you should go out and murder others because they believe something different than you.

Salad
If you could choose a celebrity to be your boss, who would you pick?
Hugh Laurie

Main Course
What was a lesson you had to learn the hard way?
Credit cards are evil.

Dessert
Describe your idea of the perfect relaxation room.
Cool, blue, lots of natural light, candles, soft mushy furniture and big pillows.

2007-11-29T23:53:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - NOVEMBER 30, 2007

Forget on time, I am EARLY this week!!!!

Feast One Hundred & Seventy
November 30th, 2007
Appetizer
What is your favorite carnival/amusement park ride?
I really enjoy the skyride, although apparently I am the only one because they keep closing them down. I also like the teacups.

Soup
How do you react in uncomfortable social situations?
I fidget and I get itchy. I also become combative. If I am very uncomfortable and you are the only person in the room I know, expect me to be short with you and cling to your side simultaneously. It doesn't happen often anymore, and it's not a pretty sight.

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy discussing deep, philosophical topics?
Depends on my mood and even more so on the group involved. If you're a pompous blowhard then I'd rather skip it, but I enjoy a deep conversation with the right people on about the level of an 8.

Main Course
Did you get a flu shot this year? If not, do you plan to?
No, and not likely.

Dessert
Approximately how many hours per week do you spend watching television?
between 7 and 10

2007-11-25T21:26:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - THANKSGIVING GLUTTONY 2007

Yes, yes I know, I got behind again. I was computerless for a bit. Most recently I have been in bed for the last six days with the cold from hell. In the spirit of overindulging this holiday season, I give you several helpings of the feast:

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Six
October 26th, 2007
Appetizer
Name a great website you would recommend to others.
Fark see, that's why it's over there on the side bar ------->

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 as highest), how often do you dream at night?
6

Salad
Did you have a pet as a child? If so, what kind and what was its name?
Yes, Neil the Cockatiel

Main Course
If you had the chance to star in a commercial, what would you choose to advertise?
"Stay in School" PSA

Dessert
What is your favorite kind of hard candy?
Fruit Punch Jolly Ranchers

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Seven
November 02nd, 2007
Appetizer
How much money do you plan to spend this upcoming holiday season?
As little as possible without being a Scrooge

Soup
What was the last television show you watched, and was it good?
Movie and a Makeover: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - love that movie!

Salad
If you had to paint the walls of your living room tomorrow, what color would you choose?
green

Main Course
Name something clever or practical you have thought of that should be invented, but hasn’t yet.
sneakers with pedometers built in

Dessert
List 3 things you would like to receive as gifts this upcoming holiday season.
books, an IPOD (unlikely, but I can wish) and/or a pillow-top mattress cover

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Eight
November 09th, 2007
Appetizer
Which snack do you like to get when you go to the movies?
popcorn of course, sometimes Bon Bons

Soup
What year did you start using the internet?
1995

Salad
What is your first name in Pig Latin? (Here’s how to speak it if you don’t already know!)
That information is classified

Main Course
Name something you are picky about.
My sleeping situation, I can't sleep on the floor, and I need a fan and lots of pillows.

Dessert
Fill in the blanks: I ____ ____ yesterday and I ____ ____ today.
I slept a lot yesterday and I slept more today. [What an exciting life I lead *cough*sniffle*]

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Nine
November 16th, 2007
Appetizer
What was your first “real” job?
Clerk at a drug store.

Soup
Where would you go if you wanted to spark your creativity?
The beach

Salad
Complete this sentence: I am embarrassed when…
I randomly get the hiccups.

Main Course
What values did your parents instill in you?
Work hard, stay in school and if someone hits you first, hit them back!

Dessert
Name 3 fads from your teenage years.
Wigwam socks, neon clothing and roller skating

No feast today…
November 23rd, 2007

The chef is taking a break this week to celebrate Thanksgiving and stuff. Come back next Friday for a brand new feast!

2007-11-13T11:56:00.000-05:00

R.I.P. WINDOWS 98

After 6 faithful years of service, through law school and job hunting and the bar exam, my laptop has finally died. My internet access outside of work has gone from spotty to non existant - thus why Friday's Feast has been missing. I am in the process of setting up an interim computer.

If anyone knows how to extract data from a laptop that will only boot up in SAFE MODE using a memory stick I would be forever grateful. [The CD ROM is dead and the replacement machine doesn't have a 3.5 drive and the machine won't recognize the USB memory key in Safe Mode, so I stuck.]

2007-11-12T11:57:00.000-05:00

VETERAN'S DAY THANK YOU

A heartfelt thanks to all of our veterans, past and present and armed forces personnel. Your great effort and numerous sacrifices are are so much more appreciated than any words could express.

If you want a more tangible way for civilians to show gratitute to the men and women who make up our armed forces then consider this idea; when you are filling out holiday cards this year add just one extra to your pile. Address it to:

A Recovering American Soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue,NW
Washington,D.C. 20307-5001

I am sure there other, similiar efforts out there for the other branches of service. Feel free to post info in the comments or shoot me an email and I will add it to this post!

2007-10-24T19:00:00.000-04:00

TWO POINTS OF INTEREST

Today, October 24, is United Nations Day,

and completely unrelated;

Durex is looking for product testers. The criteria: you have to be an "intercourse enthusiast".

2007-10-21T20:44:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - OCTOBER 19, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Five
Appetizer
If you were a dog, what breed would you be, and why?
I am not a dog person so I don't think I am even aware of all the options. I guess I would have to say a golden retriever, because I am smart an loyal. Anyone else who knows me in real life care to weigh in on this in the comments?

Soup
What does the color purple make you think of?
plums and eggplants and my sophmore HS biology teacher who had issues with purple hurting his eyes [imagine how your eyes feel when you flip on the lights in the middle of the night]. If I wore a solid purple shirt to class he made me go get a tee shirt from my gym locker to wear.

Salad
Approximately how long does it take you to get ready each morning?
A little over an hour if I take my time, but I can be out the door in 30 min if I really have to be.

Main Course
How many cousins do you have, and are you close to them?
I have 12 first cousins, I am not close to any of them.

Dessert
Take your initials (first, middle, last) and come up with something else those letters could stand for. (Example: SFO = Sweet Funny Otter)

I'll do TSC = Tantilizing, seductive cougar.

2007-10-15T00:34:00.000-04:00

GLUTTONY ABOUNDS - MORE FEASTING

Yea, so I guess I never got back on the wagon with posting every week, so here are four more feasts. Hopefully I won't have this backlog again. And yes, I know I still owe a massive update. It's been a bit hectic in these parts.

Feast One Hundred & Sixty One
September 21st, 2007
Appetizer
What is your favorite type of art?
I can't pick just one, but I do adore medieval paintings and abstract art, i.e. Picasso. My favorite Picasso is Three Musicians, although my favorite painting overall is Nude Descending a Staircase by Duchamp. As for sculpture, there is a tie between The Poet (commonly known as The Thinker), and The Kiss, both by Rodin.

Soup
When was the last time you got a free lunch (or breakfast or dinner)? Who paid for it?
Last night my father took me out for Indian food. I was his menu consultant, as he had never had Indian cuisine before, in exchange he paid the bill.

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how emotional are you?
9.5

Main Course
Approximately how long do you spend each day responding to emails?
A few minutes here, a few there. I guess about an hour over the course of the day.

Dessert
To what temperature do you usually set your home’s thermostat?
Usually the cooler the better; in the winter 66 is usually fine, in the summer 70 to conserve some energy.

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Two
September 28th, 2007
Appetizer
How are you today?
Hanging in there.

Soup
Name 3 television shows you watch on a regular basis.
House, Big Love, The Tudors

Salad
What’s the scariest weather situation you’ve experienced?
Hurricane when I was in grammar school, I thought a hurricane and a tournado were the same thing and I was convinced our house was going to fly away.

Main Course
If you could wake up tomorrow morning in another country, where would you want to be?
Italy

Dessert
What do you usually wear to sleep?
over sized tee shirt

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Three
October 5th, 2007
Appetizer
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you look forward to your birthday?
Used to be 9.9, now it is somewhat less.

Soup
What is one word you don’t like the sound, spelling, or meaning of?
nostril

Salad
Do you wear sunglasses when you’re outside? If so, what does your current pair look like?
Sometimes when I drive or when I am at the beach; they are old, oversized and scratched. I try not to put too much thought or expense into sunglasses because I tend to lose them.

Main Course
If you were to write a book, to whom would you dedicate it?
It would depend on the book and my inspiration for writing it.

Dessert
Name a beverage that you enjoy.
unsweetened iced tea

Feast One Hundred & Sixty Four
October 12th, 2007
Appetizer
When was the last time you were surprised?
This morning when I found out I was getting new tires.

Soup
Fill in the blanks: My eyes are ________, but I wish they were __________.
My eyes are brown, but I wish they were blue.

Salad
If you were a Beanie Baby, what would you look like and what would your name be?
I would be cuddly and cute and pink and my name would be Bubbles.

Main Course
Name two things you consistently do that you consider to be healthy habits.
I take vitamins and fish oil every day and I try to opt for water rather than soda.

Dessert
What brand of toothpaste are you using these days? Do you like it? Why or why not?
Colgate original and of course I like it, why would I use it if I didn't?

2007-10-13T19:43:00.000-04:00

LEFT BRAIN v. RIGHT BRAIN

Is the woman spinning clockwise or counterclockwise?

[Note that she spins much smoother on the article site than she does here, so you might want to go check out the article before making a decision on direction.]

According to this article, the way you see it spin tells you which side of your brain is dominant. If you try to engage the opposite side of your brain while not looking at the picture, you can make her switch directions.

I initially saw her spinning clockwise, but was able to make her switch, although I don't know exactly how. Are you right brained or left brained?

H/T to John Roberts over at There's No Competition In Law School

2007-09-14T13:28:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - SUMMER BUFFET

I have been lax in posting recently. There has been a lot going on. There is a summer highlights post coming soon for those interested. Anywho - enjoy the backlog of feasts:

Feast One Hundred & Fifty Six - August 17th, 2007
Appetizer
Describe your laundry routine. Do you have a certain day when you do it all, or do you just wash whatever you need for the next day?
I do a few loads all at once when I notice that a majority of my work clothes are dirty, or when I begin running out of underwear :)

Soup
In your opinion, what age will you be when you’ll consider yourself to truly be old?
65, social security age

Salad
What is one of your goals? Is it short-term, long-term, or both?
Short term I need a job in my field and a place of my own. Long term I would like to be married and maybe consider a second career.

Main Course
Name something unbelievable you’ve seen or read lately.
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is an AMAZING book, in the traditional sense of the word, unbelievable would be anything you read in tabloids.

Dessert
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how happy are you today?
4 or 5

Feast One Hundred & Fifty Seven - August 24th, 2007
Appetizer
Say there’s a book written about your life. Who would you want to narrate the audio version?
Patty Steele from WPLJ, she is a recognizable celebrity, but not uber famous like a movie star would be. Someone "too famous" would take away from the story, because then all you are thinking is "that's Julia Roberts' voice!" instead of thinking about the story. Plus Patty has a great voice, it's warm and fun and she has a great laugh.

Soup
Take the letters from your favorite kind of nut and write a sentence. (Example: Perhaps every avenue needs understanding today.)
Cats and sheep hate early winter.

Salad
If you could go back in time and spend one week in another decade, which decade would you choose?
The 1920's, right before the depression.

Main Course
Name a song that brings back memories for you.
Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes"

Dessert
Do you prefer to wash your hands in cold water or warm water?
Depends, usually cool.

Feast One Hundred & Fifty Eight - August 31st, 2007
Appetizer
Who is the easiest person for you to talk to?
my roommate from law school

Soup
If you could live in any ancient city during the height of the quality of its society and culture, which one would you choose?
Rome

Salad
What is the most exciting event you’ve ever witnessed?
Everything I can think of isn't exciting as much as tragic, i.e. the Challenger explosion.

Main Course
If you were a celebrity, what would you do for a publicity stunt?
I would start my own charity.

Dessert
What do you consider the ideal age to have a first child?

I think it depends on the person. I think over 25 it good because then you have a sense of who you really are before you try to raise someone else.

Feasy One Hundred and Fifty-Nine - September 7, 2007

Appetizer
Using only one word, how does grocery shopping make you feel?
independant

Soup
What is your favorite part about the season of Autumn?
the cooler weather

Salad
Have you ever had any bad experiences online?
yup, people being rude just b/c they can hide behind a keyboard or ppl lying, way back when I used to go into chat rooms I had a lot of ppl who didn't want a real conversation, they just wanted to have cyber sex, I am so not interested in that kind of dialogue with a total stranger.

Main Course
Name three things that make you happy daily.
My new[er] car, my niece, my coworker Amanda

Dessert
What one household cleansing or organizing item would you not want to be without?

Lysol bleach wipes

Feast One Hundred and Sixty - September 14th, 2007
Appetizer
When was the last time you visited a hospital?
Last week, my brother broke both of his legs in an accident and had to have surgery

Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how ambitious are you?
9, I don't say 10 because I refuse to screw other people over in order to meet my ambitions.

Salad
Make a sentence using the letters of a body part. (Example: (mouth) My other ukelele tings healthily.)
Lying is preposterous.

Main Course
If you were to start a club, what would the subject matter be, and what would you name it?
Isn't this a repeat question?

Dessert
What color is the carpet/flooring in your home?
blue, blue, blue

2007-09-03T23:02:00.000-04:00

BAR/BRI CLASS ACTION CLAIM FORMS ARE DUE

Those of you following this case know that notification of the class was initiated. If you want to be part of any payout you need to submit the claim form POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 17, 2007.

If you need more info or to get a claim form, see the official website or call 888-285-7850.

2007-08-10T23:14:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - AUGUST 10, 2007

Feast One Hundred and Fifty Five
Appetizer
What is your favorite kind of pie?
peach

Soup
Name something that made you smile this week.
Driving my new[er] car

Salad
What do you do to cool off when the weather is hot and humid?
Go in the A/C, and put on any fan in sight.

Main Course
You receive $1,000 in the mail with a letter that says you can only use the money to redecorate one room in your home. Which room do you pick, and what do you buy to spruce it up?
I pick the back yard b/c the house isn't mine anyway, so I might as well help out the parentals and have pavers installed on the patio.

Dessert
Fill in the blank: My _________ says __________, but I __________.
My heart says go for it, but I know better.

2007-08-03T14:47:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - AUGUST 3, 2007
Feast One Hundred and Fifty Four

*This feast contains leftovers from April 2006.

Consume at your own risk!*

Since this is leftovers, I'll just link you to my original post on this feast.

2007-08-01T23:38:00.000-04:00

GO HOME AND CELEBRATE!!

I heard on the radio today that it is currently National Orgasm Week! Enjoy!

2007-07-29T12:07:00.001-04:00

I'VE BEEN SIMPSONIZED!
Simpsonize yourself at Simpsonizeme.com

2007-07-27T23:15:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JULY 27, 2007

Feast One Hundred and Fifty Three
Appetizer
Describe a toy you remember from your childhood.
I had a Ronald McDonald doll that I loved.

Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being highest) how observant are you?
It depends on where I am and who I am with, but when I am at my prime I would say a 9.

Salad
Where would you rather be at this very moment?
Bermuda, with someone special.

Main Course
When was the last time you learned something new?
Last weekend, I learned 2 different ways out of Delaware, I learned how to party in 4 states in 2 days and I learned how to take a water taxi [more on these shenanigans when I get around to writing the post].

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I have ____________ but I haven’t ____________.
I have been to tropical islands, but I haven't learned to scuba dive yet.

2007-07-20T18:25:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JULY 20, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Fifty Two
Appetizer
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being highest) how much do enjoy watching sports on television?
4

Soup
If you could completely memorize any one work of fiction, which one would you pick?
The Harry Potter Series, because I constantly have to go back to remember little tidbits and how they tie in.

Salad
What is your favorite breakfast food?
sweets, like cinnamon buns and such

Main Course
Name something fun you can do for less than $10.00.
Go dancing on Wednesday nights at the Colorado Cafe

Dessert
How long does it usually take you to fall asleep?
Depends, sometimes 10 minutes, sometimes hours. It depends if my brain is cooperating or not.

2007-07-13T20:09:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JULY 13, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Fifty One
Appetizer
What is your favorite fruit?
Tough call, I'll have to go with the banana. It's filling and you can eat it plain, in cereal, frozen, covered in chocolate, or layered under ice cream! MMMMMM

Soup
Who is someone you consider as a great role model?
Julia Child

Salad
If you were to spend one night anywhere within an hour of your home, where would you choose?
Philadelphia, PA

Main Course
Name something you do too often.
Curse while driving

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I really like ___________ because ____________.
I really like autumn because it gets cooler and it means new beginnings.

2007-07-06T23:52:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JULY 6, 2007

The chef is away this week!

The Friday’s Feast kitchen is closed this week. The chef is away, gathering new recipes and letting special questions simmer. Please feel free to create your own morsels of fun today, and come back next week for a brand new feast!

2007-07-03T16:07:00.000-04:00

MARY, MARY, QUITE CONTRARY - HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Well, the garden is doing nicely. I am very pleased with the herbs for the most part. The basil, thyme and dill are looking good and are also quite tasty! I weeded like a mad woman, and within a week they were all back [arrgh] so I'll have to include pics at a later date after I weed again.

The cilantro seems to be drying out for some reason, and I had to put a tomato cage around it because it became so tall that it was falling over. The parsley seems to want to grow UP as opposed to OUT too. So, while the stalks are nice and healthy, there is a distinct lack of actual leaves. The mint is multiplying faster than a rabbit, and I did make a batch of mojitos with it back on Memorial Day that were delicious!

The rhubard is boring since the "fruit" part grows underground. I was most worried about the corn. I have heard that corn is difficult to grow, then I heard that if you plant it in a straight line [which I did] that it won't pollinate. I figured the worst possible scenario was that I would end up with home grown Halloween decorations that never bore any veggies. Then just today my mom spotted this .....

Baby corn!!!!! I am so excited!!!! More garden news to follow . . .

2007-06-30T19:40:00.000-04:00

SO I SHOULD BLAME LAW SCHOOL??

According to the law blog over at the Wall Street Journal, there is a recently published study that offers the notion that law school causes emotional instability.

So how does that explain the two decades before I went to law school? ;)

2007-06-29T20:21:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JUNE 29, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Fifty
Appetizer
How many pieces of jewelry do you wear most days?
Three rings and a watch, sometimes a necklace and earrings.

Soup
What is your favorite instrumental song?
the Forrest Gump Suite followed closely by Chariots of Fire

Salad
Who has a last name that you like?
Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, I am a fan of European sounding names.

Main Course
Name a popular movie you’ve never seen.
Nine and a half weeks

Dessert
Fill in the blank: Nothing makes me ___________ like ____________.

Nothing makes me happy like being in love.

2007-06-22T11:31:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JUNE 22, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty Nine
Appetizer
Name a funny habit you have.
When I am walking with one other person I need the person to be on my left. I don't know why, it just doesn't feel right if s/he is on my right side.

Soup
If you could instantly know how to play a musical instrument, which one would you pick?
piano, hands down

Salad
How long is your hair?
middle of my back

Main Course
When was the last time you forgave someone, and who was it?
prolly some little spat w/ my mom, I don't forgive easily. The last major time I forgave someone was last summer. I had a friend whom I had not spoken to in almost a year. I forgave him, but by the fall I realized it was a mistake and now I realize we are better off not being friends.

Dessert
What is your favorite kitchen appliance?

food processor, there are certain things I could not even begin to make if I didn't have one.

2007-06-15T10:42:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JUNE 15, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty Eight
Appetizer
Fill in the blank: The best thing about where I live is _________________…
the proximity to NYC, Philly & Atlantic City

Soup
Create a new name for a deodorant (like “Flower Fresh” or “Shower Scent”).
Summer Breeze or Ocean Essence

Salad
What was the last piece of software you installed onto your computer?
Firefox Update

Main Course
If you were to receive a superlative award today beginning with the words ”Most likely to…”, what would the rest of the phrase say?
Most Likely to fall asleep at her desk

Dessert
What two colors do you like to wear together?
pink and brown

2007-06-11T20:09:00.000-04:00

WHICH STAR WARS CHARACTER ARE YOU?

Your results: You are Luke Skywalker

Luke Skywalker 63%

Han Solo 60%

Princess Leia 57%

Qui-Gon Jinn 56%

Jar Jar Binks 56%

Obi-Wan Kenobi 56%

C-3PO 53%

Yoda 53%

Padme 52%

Darth Vader 49%

You value your friends and loved ones,
but can sometimes act recklessly
because of your emotions.
Occasionally you resort to whining.
You look ahead to great things for yourself.

(This list displays the top 10 results out of a possible 21 characters)

Click here to take the Star Wars Personality Test

H/T to APL

2007-06-08T23:59:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JUNE 8, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty Seven
Appetizer
What do you consider to be the ultimate snack food?
At the moment I am on a Cheez-Its kick, but other snack favorites are Wheat Thins with strawberry cream cheese or pretzels coated in dark chocolate.

Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 as highest), about how popular is your last name?
According to NameStatistics.com my last name is the #1782 most common last name, 0.007% of last names in the US are the same as mine, which is about 17,500 people.

Salad
Who is your all-time favorite sitcom character, and why?
I'm going to have to go with Roseanne because she was "real". She showed us that life isn't always pretty, but there are still funny moments.

Main Course
Do you shop online? If so, name some sites you like to browse for goodies.
Yup, Ebay and Amazon are favorites.

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I think ___________ should be ___________.
I think higher education should be FREE to anyone who can get accepted based on grades.

2007-06-05T23:34:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JUNE 1, 2007

Yes, yes, I am way late. There was a wedding, and some sunburn, and a back injury, and .... well onto the feast.

Feast One Hundred & Forty Six
Appetizer
Name something you think is “the best.”
Healthy Choice Original is the best store bought marinara sauce. My mom is the best scrapbooker. Green is the best color in the universe.

Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 highest), how stressed are you today?
7.5

Salad
What kind of cleanser do you use to wash your face?
Noxema

Main Course
Tonight is a blue moon! What is something that you believe only happens “once in a blue moon.”
love at first sight

Dessert
When was the last time it rained where you live?
Sunday

2007-05-28T17:02:00.000-04:00

THE STORK HAS BEEN SPOTTED HEADED THIS WAY

My brother and sister in law announced this past weekend that they are expecting their second child this winter. I am so excited to be an aunt all over again!!!!!

YIPPEEEE!

2007-05-25T23:49:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MAY 25, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty Five
Appetizer
Name a sound you like to hear.
the doorbell ringing

Soup
What is your favorite kind of cheese?
tough call, it depends on what I am using it for. Currently my favorite is brie.

Salad
Do you sleep late on Saturday mornings? Why or why not?
As often as I can!

Main Course
When was the last time you forgot something? What was it, and how long did it take to remember it?
I forgot to call a client back and I remembered about 15 minutes later.

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I notice ____________ when _____________.
I notice people when they smile at me.

2007-05-18T23:57:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MAY 18, 2007
Feast One Hundred & Forty Four

Appetizer
List 3 emotions you experienced this week.
frustration, loneliness, hope

Soup
Name a car you’d love to have.
2005 Ford Taurus, 4 door, green w/ sun roof

Salad
Describe your typical morning routine.
wake up, curse alarm clock, potty, shower, brush teeth, dry hair, makeup, clothing, jewelry, perfume, vitamins, out the door to work

Main Course
Have you ever emailed someone famous? If so, who, and what did you say to them? Did they reply?
Don't think I ever have, although I did have a few "celebrity sightings" when I went to L.A. a few years ago.

Dessert
Do you listen to podcasts? If so, which ones?
Nope, have enough info at my disposal, don't need another medium.

2007-05-11T23:59:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MAY 11, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty Three
Appetizer
Tell about a time when you had to be brave.
I had to get ahold of my fear and be brave when I took the bar exam. I knew it was my emotions that were holding me back, moreso than a lack of knowledge.

Soup
Which upcoming movie are you excited about seeing?
Knocked Up, Waitress, Shrek the Third, Georgia Rule, Evan Almighty, Live Free or Die Hard, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and I Now Pronounce You Chuch and Larry are the summer movies I would like to see. I'm really not against seeing any of the blockbusters set to come out in the next three months, although I go out to the movies so rarely I doubt I will even see half of them.

Salad
Name an item you try to always have on hand.
eye drops and a scrunchie for my hair

Main Course
Imagine the most relaxing room you can think of. Now describe it!
deep blue walls, soft sunlight filtering in from sheer curtains, big soft furniture with lots of pillows, perhaps a fireplace, a stereo, from the window you can hear the nearby surf as it laps the shore, gentle breezes blowing and rustling the curtains

Dessert
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being highest), how spiritual or religious are you?
I am very spiritual, but not "religious" at all. I have great respect for people who find comfort in organized religion, however I, personally, do not think that any higher power measures my worth or "goodness" based on how often I occupy a pew. Sadly, many people whom I have met who pride themselves on their appearance at services on Sundays are also the ones who reserve all their righteouness for one day of the week and are hypocrits the other 6 days. [Of course this is not always the case, but it has been my experience.] I am an 8 in spirituality, but a 3 as far as being "religious".

2007-05-07T00:03:00.000-04:00

TRYING OUT MY GREEN THUMB

I know I have not posted anything of sustance in quite awhile. I need to do an update, hopefully there will be some exciting things on the horizon. For now I'll post some pics of my newest venture - gardening.

I adore fresh herbs, mainly because I love cooking with them. I went to a nursery by my office, last week, with the intention of getting a couple of basil plants and perhaps some mint [for mojitos ;) ]

I went on this shopping excursion hungry. Much like going grocery shopping when hungry, that was a mistake. I kept thinking about all the savory dished I could make with all the different veggies and herbs I saw and I managed to buy much more than I had planned. Luckily, limited gardening space kept me in line a little bit. I ended up with basil, dill, thyme, parsley, cilantro, spearmint, chocolate mint, and chives in the herb department.

I also decided to give myself a real challenge and I bought corn and one lonely rhubard plant.

Now if I just remember to water [and not overwater] those plants, along with my father's tomato plants, they should yield a tasty summer crop!

2007-05-05T15:27:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MAY 4, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty Two
Appetizer
Name something you would not want to own.
I would not want to own a snake. I am not insanely creeped out by them like some people, and I have no problem touching them. However, I would not want one of my own. I don't want any pet that I have to feed live things to.

Soup
Describe your hair (texture, color, length, etc.).
brown w/ blond highlights, slightly longer than shoulder length, very soft and curley if I wash it and do nothing, but I add texture w/ styling products and usually use my hairdyer to make it straighter.

Salad
Finish this sentence: I’ll never forget ___________.
The moment I passed the bar, the smell of my Grammy's kitchen, where I was on September 11th, how it feels to be utterly heartbroken

Main Course
Which famous person would you like to be for one day? Why?
Reese Witherspoon, no matter what happens she is always classy and well put together and in control.

Dessert
Write one sentence about yourself that includes one thing that is true and another thing that is not.
I am an excellent swimmer and I am highly allergic to olives.
[Think you know which is true and which is not? Leave it in the comments.]

2007-04-27T23:59:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - APRIL 27, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Forty One
Appetizer
How fast can you type?
Pretty fast, although I have never timed myself, however I use my own method that developed over time. I do not have my fingers on the "correct" keys even though I use all but my pinkies.

Soup
What is your favorite online game?
Gold Miner

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 as highest), how intelligent do you think you are?
Hmm, that's a pretty small scale if you are counting everyone from autistic individuals to Stephen Hawking. I know my IQ is higher than average and I have a decent shot at getting into Mensa, but I am by no means a genius. I guess if 5 is average then I am a 7 or 8.

Main Course
Name three of your best teachers from your school years.
Mrs. Regiec (World Literature), Mrs. Ruthrauff (Chemistry) & Mr. Savitsky (Calculus) - I am considering grades K-12 only and not college or law school since the question pertained to "teachers" and not "professors".

Dessert
What are your plans for this upcoming weekend?
I went to dinner with friends last night, now I have some much needed "housekeeping" to do, such as paying bills and updating my resume and sending it out, etc. I have been partying like a rock star the last few weekends and now I need to settle in and be productive.

2007-04-25T23:05:00.000-04:00

MEME: I HAVE A MID ATLANTIC "ACCENT" - SHOCKER

What American accent do you have?
Created by Xavier on Memegen.net

Mid-Atlantic. This is what everyone calls a Philadelphia accent although it's also the accent of south Jersey, Baltimore, and Wilmington. Well, everyone that lives near there, that is. Outsiders can tell you talk differently from them even though they can't tell what your accent is.

Take this quiz now - it's easy!

2007-04-20T13:00:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST SMORGASBORD!

OK, it's gotten out of hand, THREE weeks of feasts are coming your way. It's been a busy time. There was parents to bon boyage off to some distant, tropical island, there was a Nor'easter here in NJ and a host of other less severe calamities. However, I am all caught up now. Grab a fork and some tums and dig in!

Feast One Hundred & Forty
April 20th, 2007
Appetizer
What is your favorite kind of bread?
I LOVE potato bread, but it's all white flour and other such unhealthy things, so I usually stick to whole wheat. I also like a good bagel on the weekends, but only if it is hallowed out and toasted.

Soup
When was the last time you bought a new pillow?
Forever ago, I have 6 on my bed right now, plus a body pillow. [Didn't we cover this once before?]

Salad
Approximately how many hours per week do you spend surfing the ‘net?
Usually about an hour total while at wk, I ck my MySpace and email, and sometimes when I get home another 2-3 hours.

Main Course
What’s the highest you remember your temperature being?
I know it was really high once, but I don't know the number. I woke up the next day and I didn't remember anything from the night before, or how I got into bed. My mother told me I was delirious and talking nonsense.

Dessert
Fill in the blanks: When I ____________, I _____________.
When I get emotional [any emotion; anger, fustration, happiness, sadness, etc] I cry.

Feast One Hundred & Thirty Nine
April 13th, 2007
Appetizer
When you were a child, which crayon color was your favorite?
Same as now, green. Although I did go through a short lavender phase.

Soup
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being highest), how likely would you be to change jobs if it required you to move?
10, but not out of NJ unless it was for a short time or the job was totally phenominal.

Salad
Take all the numbers in your birthday and your phone number and add them up, one by one. What’s the total?
Sorry gang, not posting my phone number and Bday, but I will give you the total: 72

Main Course
Have you ever “re-gifted” anything? If so, what was it and who did you pass it on to?
Yes, candles and and brand new nail stuff if I remember correctly, but that was back in HS. I received a re-gift in law school. A friend gave me a photo album that she had received years before and never used. What she didn't know was that there was an inscription in it!

Dessert
Name something you need from the store.
a swiffer duster

Feast One Hundred & Thirty Eight
April 06th, 2007
Appetizer
When you travel, which mode of transportation do you prefer?
depends on where I am going, but I guess I would have to say train.

Soup
Have you ever met a blogging friend in person?
yes :)

Salad
When was the last time you were really, really tired?
today!

Main Course
If you could have dinner with any one fictional character from a book or movie, who would it be?
Dr. Gregory House - I know, I know that's TV, but I love that character! If I have to play by the rules then I will say Atticus Finch.

Dessert
Fill in the blank: One day, I hope to see _______________.
Europe

2007-04-10T12:52:00.000-04:00

YOUR PERSONALITY IS ...

You are sensible, down to earth, and goal oriented. Bottom line, you are good at playing by the rules.

You tend to be dominant - and you are a natural leader. You are interested in rules and order. Morals are important to you.

A hard worker, you give your all at whatever you do. You're very serious, and people often tell you to lighten up.

In love, you tend to take things carefully and slowly.

At work, you are suited to almost any career - but you excel in leadership positions.

With others, you tend to be polite and formal.

As far as looks go, you are traditionally attractive. You take good care of yourself.

On weekends, you tend to like to do organized activities. In fact, you often organize them!

The Three Question Personality Test

People often tell me to lighten up - - ahahahahahaha

2007-03-31T13:50:00.000-04:00

A SONG ABOUT WHAT ?!?!

If you need a laugh check out this clip from YouTube. Be warned - it's crass, it's inappropriate. It's also absolutely HILARIOUS! (And amazingly there are no curse words.)

H/T to Naked Drinking Coffee for pointing me in the direction of the clip and entertaining me in general with all manner of debauchery.

2007-03-30T10:15:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 30, 2007

Friday's Feast has moved, so the links in my previous posts might only work for a limited time.

Feast One Hundred & Thirty Seven
Appetizer
What are you proud of?
Graduating from law school, passing the bar and my ability to sooth crying clients.

Soup
What is the best thing you’ve ever won as a prize?
I won a "lifetime" supply of M&M Minis when I was in law school. I got a case of those little colored tubes. I gave those things away to everyone I knew (and some people that I didn't know!). Do you have any idea how many tubes are in an entire case of Minis?? A LOT.

Salad
Name something you do that is a waste of time.
Daydream

Main Course
In what year of your life did you change the most?
It's a toss up between 1998 and 2001.

Dessert
Where is a place you consider to be very tranquil?
The beach

2007-03-24T10:08:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 23, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Thirty Six
Appetizer
Who is your favorite news anchor/reporter? Why?
I don't generally watch the news on TV. It's very sensationalized and I can get much more current info from the internet. If I had to pick someone I would have to say Andy Rooney from 60 Minutes. I know heis technically not an anchorperson, but I love his attitude - and those eyebrows, OMG, I cannot help but stare. LOL

Soup
Name 3 foods that are currently in your freezer.
steak, broccoli, chicken

Salad
If you were to have the opportunity to name a new town or city, what would you call it?
It would depend on where it was, etc. For something completely whimsical how about "Love". "Where do you live? Love." Excellent.

Main Course
What will most likely be the next book you read?
The third in the DUNE series.

Dessert
What's the first thing you notice about the opposite gender?
It depends, but usually smile.

2007-03-20T16:39:00.000-04:00

FIRST DAY OF SPRING

Tomorrow is the Vernal Equinox, i.e. the First Day of Spring!!! As a PSA I'd like to let everyone one know that you can get free goodies.

Rita's Water Ice opens for the season and is offering a free regular size ice at all locations to everyone! Find a location near you.

Dunkin Donuts is offering a free iced coffee all day Wednesday as well!

Get your sugar and caffeine - all for free!

Anyone know of any other cool stuff going on tomorrow? Let me know or post it in the comments.

2007-03-16T13:30:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 16, 2007

Happy early Saint Patrick's Day! Erin go bragh! [Yes, I actually am a smidge Irish]

Feast One Hundred & Thirty Five
Appetizer
Name two things that made you smile this week.
I went to see Beauty and the Beast on Broadway, it was hysterical, and also my niece made me laugh when I spotted her playing with the cat.

Soup
Fill in the blank: Don't you hate it when ________?
People drive like morons!

Salad
When you can't go to sleep, what is your personal remedy to help yourself drift into Lullabyland?
Reading a bit or breathing exercises if I am really desperate.

Main Course
What is something about which you've always wondered but have not yet found a good answer?
I want to know why we have to pay the IRS interest if we are late paying our taxes [and penalties too], but when they refund OUR money that they have had access to for the last year, they don't have to pay US interest.

Dessert
What is your favorite pasta dish?
Spaghetti Carbonara comes to mind, although I also adore penne a la vodka and broccoli alfredo.

2007-03-13T12:55:00.000-04:00

HAPPINESS IS ...

Happiness is freshly laundered sheets at bedtime.

2007-03-09T14:15:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 9, 2007

Feast One Hundred and Thirty Four
Appetizer
What is your usual bedtime? Do you like that, or would you rather it be different?
11pm during the week, who knows on the weekends. I am a night person, so I tend to get more done late at night. When I was in law school I scheduled all of my classes late in the day and routinely stayed up till 2am. These days I am more than ready to zonk out at 11.

Soup
When it comes to advice, do you give more or receive more?
It's about equal.

Salad
Describe a memorable meal you've had.
My family and I went to my favorite [and also expensive] restaurant down near Atlantic City to celebrate when I passed the bar exam. That was one of the happiest meals of my life. It was my parents, my brother and his wife and daughter. I had steamed mussels and shrimp bisque and stuffed lobster tail and amazing banana cream pie. We drank and toasted and had a fabulous time.

Main Course
Name a work of fiction that affected the way you think about something.
To Kill a Mockingbird - it made me think long and hard about a lot of things. That's one of the reasons it is my favorite book.

Dessert
What is your favorite type of fruit juice?
Pink grapefruit usually

2007-03-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - MARCH 2, 2007

Wow March already - yea Springtime!

Feast One Hundred & Thirty Three
Appetizer
What does the color pink make you think of?
Blond Justice and baby clothes and Miss Piggy

Soup
Name something you thought you had lost, but later found.
I lost my watch several times, but always found it again. I thought I had lost my mind a few times, but managed to find that too :)

Salad
In 3 words, describe this past week.
hyper, busy, emotional

Main Course
What are you obsessed with?
Nutcrackers and the color green and the law

Dessert
What kind of perfume or cologne do you like to wear?
Chanel No. 5, but I rarely wear it because it is pricey

2007-03-01T11:19:00.000-05:00

OHH MY GAWWWWD - SHUT UP!

Legally Blond is now a Broadway Musical.
I don't know if I am amused or disturbed by this.

And YES, I am one of those people who watched this movie during my 1L year, yelling at the TV "That could never happen!"

2007-02-23T14:50:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - DOUBLE HELPING

It has been a super crazy week for many reasons, so I never did get around to last week's feast. That means that this week you get a double helping! Bon Appetite!

February 16, 2007
Feast One Hundred & Thirty One
Appetizer
What sound, other than the normal ringing, would you like your telephone to make?
Songs, currently I have the theme to Law & Order as my default ring.

Soup
Describe your usual disposition in meteorological terms (partly cloudy, sunny, stormy, etc.).
Recently, partly cloudy w/ a chance of showers

Salad
What specific subject do you feel you know better than any other subjects?
I tend to be good with other people's love lives and I have a weirdly large vocabulary. I am also very well versed on Judiasm [especially considering I'm a shiksa].

Main Course
Imagine you were given the ability to remember everything you read for one entire day. Which books/magazines/newspapers would you choose to read?
All of the prep books from Bar/Bri, an almanac, the rules for all different types of poker games, a bartender's handbook, the Bible, the Rules of Court for NJ and NY, the Joy of Cooking

Dessert
If a popular candy maker contacted you to create their next confection, what would it be like and what would you name it?
It would have to have DARK chocolate and pretzels and possibly some other things. I'm thinking squares like a Hershey bar but where each square had something different yummy in the center like raspberry coulis, caramel or fudge.

(This Feast was prepared with amazingly still fresh leftovers from October 2004.)

Friday, February 23, 2007
Feast One Hundred & Thirty Two
Appetizer
Where on your body do you have a scar, and what caused it?
OMG so many. I have one on my eyebrow from when I had stiches when I got my skin caught in the car window as a kid, [I was trying to hang my head out and she decided to roll up the window], I have another on my knee from stiches from getting a nail stuck in it from the garage door, I have one on my wrist from being burned making Christmas cookies, and I have a scattered mess of little scars all over my forearm from shards of glass from a car accident. I also have 3 "intentional scars", otherwise known as tattoos. :)

Soup
What is something that has happened to you that you would consider a miracle?
I survived a serious car crash with only minor injuries after going head-on into a truck and having to be cut out of the wreckage with the jaws of life. The people on the scene don't quite know how I survived. After seeing pictures of the car afterwards I'm not sure myself. It was all very dramatic at the time, but now it's just an interesting story.

Salad
Name a television personality who really gets on your nerves.
Pat Sajak [b/c he's boring] and Regis Philbin [not so much on his show, but on Millionaire]

Main Course
What was a funny word you said as a child (such as "pasketti" for "spaghetti")?
I called my aunt Peggy "Piggy", but I can't remember if that was a funny way to say it or if I was just being obnoxious.

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I have always thought ______ was ______.
I have always thought anything was possible.

2007-02-15T18:30:00.000-05:00

HAPPINESS IS . . .

getting a wireless mouse at work

drinks & dancing with a cute guy on Valentine's Day

making up new words - the new word being "shotable" - liquor which would make a good shot, as in: I am scanning the liquor supply looking for shotables. [I cannot take the credit for the word, I was only present at its inception.]

finding out old friends are expecting a visit from the stork

2007-02-09T13:25:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - FEBRUARY 9, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Thirty
Appetizer
Have you been sick yet this winter? If so, what did you come down with?
Yup, I was sick with a cold the week between Christmas and New Year's.

Soup
What colors dominate your closet?
black, green and purple

Salad
How would you describe your personal "comfort zone"?
Wider than most people, especially if I don't know the person.

Main Course
On which reality show would you really like to be a contestant?
I have no desire to be on TV, although I would enjoy the challenges on The Apprentice.

Dessert
Which holiday would you consider to be your favorite?
Thanksgiving. It's a lovely holiday celebrated by everyone I know, regardless of faith. It's comforting and low stress.

2007-02-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

WHICH ENGLISH SPEAKING COUNTRY ARE YOU?

Goofy quiz, but I loved my results ... a little proper and a little saucey - HAHAHAHAHA

You Belong in the UK

Blimey!
A little proper, a little saucy.
You're so witty and charming...
No one notices your curry breath

What English Speaking Country Are You?

2007-02-05T09:58:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - FEBRUARY 2, 2007

Yes, yes, I'm late. Friday was a hellish day. I broke down TWICE during the course of the day. As it turns out it was only water in my gas tank and I just had to cycle through it, but it took hours to figure this out between all the waiting for Triple A and traveling to and from the mechanic. *sigh* At least it wasn't a big expensive thing.

On to the feast!

Feast One Hundred & Twenty Nine
Appetizer
What was one of the fashion fads when you were a teenager?
Stone washed jeans rolled so tight at the ankles that they cut off the circulation, worn with wigwam socks.

Soup
Name one thing you think people assume about you when they first meet you.
I tend to think other ppl think negative things about me, but I have heard that some people think I am withdrawn or snobby because I tend to be reserved until I know someone.

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how hard do you work?
It depends, usually a 9 or 10 because I pride myself on my work and I like things to be done well, but recently I have had some medical issues and my work has not been up to par.

Main Course
If you were given a free 30-second commercial during the Super Bowl to sell anything you currently own, what would you advertise?
I don't have anything I want to sell, but I might try to advertise myself for a legal position!, so I guess my answer would me "my services", but I would have to reword that because it sounds tawdry.

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I love to ________ when it is _________.
I love to snuggle when it is raining.

2007-02-01T00:30:00.000-05:00

JUST CALL ME THE GREEN LANTERN

I thought my car could not look any more "ghetto". I was wrong. I have missing paint, and therefore large rust spots, missing hubcaps, and my bumper is all smashed. Then recently I was staying at a friend's house up north after a night of overindulgence. The following ~~morning~~ early afternoon I hear a knock on the bedroom door.

Friend: Did you have spraypaint on your car last night?

Me: Umm, NO!

Friend: Well you should come outside. The police just left.

WHAT?!

I threw on a jacket and some shoes and went out into the bitter cold to find a horizontal, green spray painted stripe spanning the entire driver's side length of my car. It looked as though the ~~thugs~~ perpetrators who did it basically drove up the street spraying as they went. There were several cars on the neighborhood that fell victim, although the vehicles parked in driveways were not touched. Lucky me for parking on the street.

In the end I decided it just didn't matter. They didn't graffitti any curse words or offensive pictures and they were even nice enough to use my favorite color. It's not as if the car was pristine looking in the first place. Every time my car makes a new noise, or gains a new scar I just cross my fingers and whisper silently to the Patron Saint of New Jobs, "Don't forget about me ..... I'm still waiting."

2007-01-31T13:39:00.000-05:00

DUST OFF YOUR "OOOGA OOOGA"

I have several posts running around in my head at the moment, but you'll have to settle for this for now:

In the realm of off-the-wall holidays, you should know that today, January 31st, is

National Gorilla Suit Day !!!!

An excerpt from the site:

Every National Gorilla Suit Day, people of all shapes and colors around the world get their gorilla suits out of the closet, put them on and go door-to-door.

That's really all there is to it. You don't have to buy gifts. You don't have to fast, although some Orthodox Gorilla Suiters do. If you want to have a parade, fine. Just make sure all the marchers are wearing gorilla suits and that all the balloons are giant, inflatable gorillas.

Imagine your boss/spouse/coworker's reaction if you decided to observe this holiday???

2007-01-27T18:59:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JANUARY 26, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Twenty Eight
Appetizer
If you could take lessons to learn any musical instrument, which would you want to learn?
I could relearn the flute and violin since I have not played either for years, but I have always wanted to learn the piano.

Soup
Have you ever mistaken a person for someone else?
course

Salad
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how well do you keep secrets?
9

Main Course
What's the closest you've ever been to a dangerous animal?
I was in a snow igloo that a bunch of neighborhood kids made w/ me and this german shepard came in and trapped me and was about to maul me when his owner pulled him out.

Dessert
When was the last time you lost your patience?
gee, what time is it? I am one of the most impatient people ever.

2007-01-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JANUARY 19, 2006

Feast One Hundred & Twenty Seven
Appetizer
Which television shows do you just refuse to miss?
Sometimes I can't help but miss shows, but currently I try to always watch House and Boston Legal.

Soup
Who did you last speak to on the telephone?
a client

Salad
How many pillows do you keep on your bed?
6 regular and 1 body pillow

Main Course
Name one addition to your computer (software, hardware, etc.) that you'd love to have.
hard drive ;) my laptop is doing all sorts of crazy things recently and I just know it is going to die soon

Dessert
What is your favorite foreign food?
There are so many how could I chose??? Sushi, baklava, cannolis, moussakka, teboullah salad ... I love ethnic food, Japanese, Greek, Mexican, you name it ....

2007-01-12T11:00:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JANUARY 12, 2006

Feast One Hundred & Twenty Six
Appetizer
What comes to mind when you see the color orange?
school buses, traffic cones

Soup
Did you ever get in trouble while you were in school? If so, what was it for?
technically no, i got called on the carpet once for cursing, but since I was always labeled a "good kid" nothing really happened. I also got detention once for rearranging the letters on the keyboards in the typing classroom. My theory - if the students were not supposed to be looking at the keys anyway then why did it matter??

Salad
Which topping(s) make up your perfect pizza?
well cooked bacon and pineapple - don't make a face until you try it! BBQ chicken pizza is a close second

Main Course
Do you believe in UFOs/aliens/etc.? Why or why not?
I don't think we are alone in the universe, bit I dount aliens are coming to Earth just to mess with us and keeping themselves hidden. The only way that makes sense is if the aliens visiting are the adolescents of their culture. In that scenario we are essentially the "ants" and they are the kids with the magnifying glass.

Dessert
What color is your bedspread/comforter/quilt?
Currently I have a plush blanket, navy blue, with yellow stars and moons. In the summer I use a multicolored pastel comforter with lots of green and blue and big butterflies on it.

2007-01-11T16:45:00.000-05:00

HIGH UP ON THE "WTF" LIST WE HAVE ... PORK FLAVORED STAMPS?!?

It's the Year of the Pig come February 18 - the Chinese New Year. The Chinese have decided to mark the occasion by offering pork scented stamps that have pork flavored glue on the back.

I sure hope they don't sent a lot of mail to Israel (or Brooklyn for that matter).

Yup, it's via Boing Boing again

2007-01-10T15:45:00.000-05:00

NEWSWORTHY TIDBITS

Just some random stuff floating across my screen:

Jesse Spencer and Jennifer Morrison from the show House, M.D. (Drs. Chase and Cameron, respectively) are engaged! I didn't even know they were dating. In the immortal words of the dearly departed TAN, this fills my heart with SQUEEEEE.

There is FINALLY a tattletale site for all those moron drivers [and inept parkers] that you come across. Check out Platewire.

Someone cuts you off, post/vent about it. Someone parks in the middle of two spots in the mall parking lot, don't get road rage, post their license plate [tag number for all you southerners] on the site along with a choice comment. You can also give a cyber "wink" to cute drivers you might encounter, or kudos for a particularly hot set of wheels. Via Boing Boing.

And finally, the newest in caffeine mainlining: Meth Coffee!

Meth Coffee, a rebel coffee company in San Francisco, opened for business today with the launch of its hard- hitting coffee roast for energy addicts and caffeine freaks. Meth's super- caffeinated beans are amplified by the addition of yerba mate, a powerful natural stimulant and antioxidant used by shamans of the Amazon for boosting stamina and mental clarity. Boasting an intense buzz and cocoa-tobacco finish, Meth Coffee is fresh-roasted within 48 hours of shipment to jumpstart workaholics, thrill seekers, artists, and subversives seeking an exciting new fuel for their endeavors.

Ordering and corporate info HERE. Again, via Boing Boing.

2007-01-10T11:13:00.000-05:00

DESERT FESTIVAL MOVES TO THE COURTHOUSE

It looks like the folks that run Burning Man are muck raking in the legal system. I hope everyone's good time is not ruined come September.

2007-01-08T13:06:00.000-05:00

FAMILY QUOTABLES PART II - HE HAS A WAY WITH WORDS

Brother recently adopted a female dog, after dog sitting for a friend's male dog to get a feel for dog ownership.

Mother: At least you won't have all those uncomfortable questions and ball licking show in the middle of your living room.

Young niece previously peered underneath male dog, vigouresly grabbed wedding tackle and said "What's this daddy??" causing masked amusement by Brother and loud yelping from male dog.

Brother: Oh this dog eats at the "Y"

Mother: Excuse me?!

Brother: Well it's not that obvious, it's not like you have junk hanging out or anything. It just looks like any other furry area, Niece doesn't know it's all cash and prizes up there.

2007-01-06T10:30:00.000-05:00

ANOTHER FANTASTIC EDITION OF NON SEQUITUR

I enjoy Non Sequitur on a daily basis, but I especially like when cartoonist Wiley Miller centers his wit on the legal field. Kudos to you Wiley!

Unrelated: Happy Three Kings Day if that is your culture!

2007-01-05T12:02:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - JANUARY 5, 2007

Feast One Hundred & Twenty-Five
Appetizer
Which celebrity (or celebrities) do you think will make headlines this year?
Britney Spears [attention whore], Reese Witherspoon [b/c I think her cheatin' hubby is going to make trouble for her], Katie Holmes [I hope she comes to her senses and ditches her crazy husband]

Soup
They say that good things come in small packages? What is something little that you think is great?
Love notes, Godiva chocolate, diamonds

Salad
Name a song that makes you want to dance.
Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy by Big and Rich

Main Course
What is your favorite font?
Garmond or Georgia

Dessert
If you were to write a do-it-yourself article, what would it be about?
How to Plan an event/party

2007-01-04T03:00:00.000-05:00

SEXY NAME GENERATOR

Get Your Sexy Name

2006-12-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - DECEMBER 29, 2006

Feast One Hundred & Twenty Four
Appetizer
How do you usually celebrate on New Year's Eve?
at a party w. friends

Soup
Name one thing unexpected that happened to you in 2006.
I got a cat whose name has gone from "Jade" to "Miss Jules", and she is happily lazing around our house either on the furniture or in one of her TWO cat beds. Mom's allergies have seemed to peeter out with only an occasional sniffle when the cat sheds a lot or spends time in my mother's room [which we discourage].

Salad
Where was your favorite place that you visited in 2006?
my brother's new house

Main Course
What resolution is your top priority for 2007?
find a legal job!

Dessert
Using just three words, describe 2006.
stalled life plan

2006-12-28T10:43:00.000-05:00

BELATED HOLIDAY MEME

I was tagged awhile back by Charlsie for the Christmas Carol game. I am supposed to list 5 of my favorite Christmas songs and then tag 5 others to do the same. I know it's a tad late, but between holiday mayhem and this cold that slapped me upside the head on Christmas Eve I have been a bit out of it.

My five favorites are:
1. "Linus and Lucy" from A Charlie Brown Christmas Soundtrack
2. Harry Belefonte, "Mary's boy-child"
3. Amy Grant, "Emmanuel"
4. anything from The Nutcracker
5. The Boston Pops, "Will Santa Come this Year"

I don't know if I should bother tagging people at this late date, but since New Year's has not happened yet I suppose it can't hurt.

I tag: Bealeton Babe, TAN, APL, Glib Gurl and ETS.

2006-12-26T16:08:00.000-05:00

FAMILY QUOTABLES

On Thanksgiving:

TSCGirl: Uncle Mike*, you haven't been over to the house to meet our new cat, Jules yet.

Uncle Mike: You know the problem with cats?

TSC: What?

UM: There just aren't enough recipes.

and then I punched his arm. [And people wonder where I get my sarcasm.]

Three days before Christmas my four-year-old niece was refusing to go to bed and my brother used the classic Santa threat:

Brother: You better be a good girl and stay in bed, Christmas is coming and Santa can see you!

Niece: All the way from the mall?!

Aaah, and another generation takes over.

2006-12-22T11:00:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - DECEMBER 22, 2006

First a BIG, HUGE CONGRATULATIONS!!! to my dear friend T for not only passing her PRAXIS II exam, but scoring in the top 15% of all test takers - you go girl!! I am proud of you!

Feast One Hundred & Twenty Three
Appetizer
What is one of your Christmas traditions?
We go to my aunt's house on Christmas eve, and we always have scrapple for breakfast Christmas morning. [It sounds gross, but it is delicious.]

Soup
Who is the easiest person on your list to buy presents for?
It depends on the year and how much I brainstorm. Usually my niece, because clothes and toys for a little girl are easy. My only problem now is finding toys she doesn't already own or that someone else isn't buying her already.

Salad
What is your favorite Christmas scent?
A fresh tree is excellent, but I love the smell of a fire in the fireplace.

Main Course
If you could give a fellow blogger a Christmas gift, who would it be and what would you give them?
If I had the funds, I would get gifts for Pete [b/c he makes me laugh and want to hit him at the same time], Lack of Scienter [b/c I WISH I was as "together" as she is], WWFD [b/c I think we could have been friends IRL], the GFY gals [they are awesome], APL [she SO deserves some pampering gifts], the Waiter [b/c he has a sexy voice] and absolutely the Barmaid! [even though technically it would be a gift for Chanukah]. I am sure there are others that I am missing.

Dessert
What's something on your Christmas wish list this year that you need (not just want)?
As far as tangible objects, I really need a new hairdryer, but what I really need is a job in my field.

Happy and Safe Holidays to everyone!!

2006-12-19T15:49:00.000-05:00

INTERESTING CELEBRATION

There is Christmas, New Year's, Chanukah and Yule (or Solstice) and some people include Ramadan, Kwanzaa and Boxing Day.

Don't forget to add Festivus to your "holiday" celebrations.

I knew about the Seinfeld phenom, I was not aware that people are actively celebrating this holiday. I expect that the wrestling of the house head and the airing of the grievances would be quite interesting. Ahh, an excellent excuse for a dinner party when I have my own place.

Confidential to SN: I LOVE my job and I have the best boss in the universe!! [See, told you I would post it.]

2006-12-15T00:40:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - DECEMBER 15, 2006

Only ten days until Christmas - wow, that sure came up fast.
The Festival of Lights starts tonight at sundown, so if that is your culture, Happy Chanukah!

Feast One Hundred and Twenty Two
Appetizer
What was your very first job with a paycheck?
I worked in a drug store for a short time.

Soup
Did you ever lose something really important to you?
yes, a watch I received as a college graduation gift, several times, but I always found it. I lost it in a friend's boyfriend's car, a NJ Transit train, my own car, and my house.

Salad
What is the best Christmas present you ever received?
my first Nutcracker along with tickets to see the ballet at a local theater

Main Course
Tell about a favorite "hang out" place for you and your friends when you were in high school.
the mall - very traditional

Dessert
Name something that always brings a smile to your face.
thinking about the night I found out I passed the bar

2006-12-14T11:02:00.000-05:00

THINGS I'VE LEARNED IN THE PAST FEW WEEKS

I've come across some interesting info and a few minor revelations in the past few weeks, somewhat boring, but consider this a mini brain dump.

While "slow dancing" is relatively simple, there are people who are "good" at it and people who are "bad".
You can slow dance anywhere if you really want to. Bowling alleys are fine, pool halls are OK, movie theaters are not recommended.
Having a cute guy kiss you on the hand when he is being sincere [as opposed to an overdramatic twit] is one of the nicest gestures ever.
If you know that a person or persons in your life is/are prone to being self-centered, immature and/or untrustworthy then you must accept that this is not going to spontaneously change and you either need to accept it and keep your distance or cut your losses and move on completely.
Never underestimate your love for an animal, it can drive you to such acts as say attacking the Chinese food delivery guy. [What?! I'm just sayin' as a hypothetical ...]
Women can have "beer muscles" too.
Jameson and Southern Comfort are the same color, however they are NOT the same flavor. Consider yourself warned.
What you might consider a small gesture could mean the world to someone else.
Chatting with a friend over lunch can make the rest of the day seem brighter.
When someone really deserves it, a tongue lashing is just as satisfying as a physical one.
Nothing beats the blues better than a hug from a small child.
Dogs and some cats will eat Cherrios.
Letting cats eat donuts, however, is not recommended.
Speaking of cats, they don't care if the tree is fake, they will try to climb it anyway. [If it's a real tree they drink the water from the base too.]
When taking a car in for a few "small maintenance" issues, nothing about the ensuing transaction will be "small"
There is direct, inverse correlation between the size of one's front lawn and the number of blow-up holiday ornaments on it.
You might be able to get a cat to wear a mini Santa hat - for a few seconds. You might be able to get a cat to sit in front of a Christmas tree. You might be able to get the cat to look at the camera to get a cute pic. It is impossible to make all of the aforementioned happen simultaneously no matter how many treats you feed the cat.
Making homemade holiday cards sounds like a fun and adorable idea - until you realize you have to make 100 of them.

2006-12-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

WHICH ROCK CHICK ARE YOU?

Which Rock Chick Are You?

Aggressive, tough and opinionated - moi??? Shocker.

2006-12-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY'S FEAST - DECEMBER 8, 2006

Feast One Hundred & Twenty One

Appetizer
Which language would you like to learn and why?
I would like to learn ASL [American Sign Language] and I would really like to become fluent in Spanish b/c I was so close to that once, and it has all slipped away.

Soup
What's the funniest thing you've heard or read so far this week?
Has to be this:

Salad
Which movie was so bad you couldn't watch the whole thing?
The 'burbs, I walked out of the theater, there are countless others that I gave up on while watching TV

Main Course
If there were a holiday in your honor that didn't use your actual name, what would the day be called?
Struggling Lawyers Awareness Day

Dessert
Name one movie which is coming out soon that you would like to see.
Charlotte's Web