I Can Haz New Table

Good Morning, Kittens!

It's a busy day in Vutopia. At 8PM, thousands hundreds dozens a couple of people will descend upon Casa de VUBOQ for a New Year's Eve Party to end all New Year's Eve Parties. There will be champagne! There will be food! There will be GAMES! There will be PRIZES! AND, there will be Fabulous Parting Gifts (if VUBOQ can pull himself up off the sofa and go to the store)!

Before that happens, though, I have to ...

(a) clean,

(b) clean some more,

(c) do some cleaning,

(d) think about cleaning some other things, and

(e) do Mountains of Laundry.

Oh, and did I mention that I need to clean?

So, yesterday, I went to the Whole Foods (Gift Cards Rock!) to buy some party foods! Cheese! Olives! MOTHERFORKING (gotta keep it clean for the kiddies) SALSA!

Then, I made dinner. See:

Please note the New Dining Nook Table!

And, um, Hello, Chef's Little Helper!

I had intended to make a recipe I printed out awhile back off of Epicurious, Sweet Potato Salad with Chili-Lime Dressing.

However, I forgot to make a list of ingredients ... and shopping by memory? not a good idea. At least I remembered to buy a sweet potato and some limes. Unfortunately, the limes were so dry they made getting blood from a stone seem easy. I had to borrow a lemon from SCGB.

So, I improvised. (Sweet potatoes + black beans + red quinoa ) x (lime juice + lemon juice + olive oil + salt/pepper/chili powder/cumin + 2 dried chilies)/ fresh baby spinach = Not Half Bad. And Practically Good. Srsly.

Oh, and, like, since today is the Final Day of 2008, I was going to do some sort of New Year's Resolution Post. However, the only things I could think of were to be

Less Vicious,

Less Unrepentant,

Less Bitter,

Less Old, and

Less Queeny.

And, let's face it, LVLULBLOLQ doesn't have quite the same ring to it ...

and, really, all that would equal is Less Interesting Blogging.

And, OMG, if this blog were any Less Interesting, I think the Blog Police might show up and revoke my Blogging License.

I hear hangovers can be inspiring, so maybe I'll have some better resolutions tomorrow. At least, I'll have some better party pictures tomorrow.

*smooches*

A Simple Work of Staggering Genius

Good Morning, Kittens!

Lots of good things happened yesterday. I received a Xmas gift in the mail: King Kong 2-disc special edition DVD. I have two words for you: Adrien Brody. YUM.

Eric drove down from Baltimore, and, along with Tomokito and SCGB, we met Ray at Nellie's for happy hour. $2 vodka cocktails. *w00t!* On the way home, we stopped at Austin Grill for food and margaritas.

I need to do some major cleaning and organizing today. Plus, I have to do some shopping for my New Year's Eve party. I think about 10-12 people are coming, but I'm not entirely sure. I need to figure that out.

And I need to figure out what kind of punch I'm going to make.

Fun times. More later. *smooches*

Weekend Update: I'm Back Edition

Good Afternoon, Kittens.

I am back from returning the rental car. And can now report on my weekend and trip to NC.

Lessee ... Friday, after the brother returned from work, we met a friend of his at some bar somewhere in Greensboro and drank many martinis.

Then, we returned to his apartment and drank more martinis and a bottle of wine while we watched Transformers (which I must say kind of sucked ass). Saturday morning?

V. hungover.

Somehow, I managed to get up and in the car and drive. I drove home via Staunton, VA, where I stopped off to visit my uncle and aunt. We had a lovely lunch together.

I finally arrived home at around 4:30.

Kristi, the upstairs neighbor, got home about the same time, so we made a date for dinner. We went to Adega for their Weekend Date Night Special (one appetizer, two entrees, one bottle of wine = $35). Bargain.

After dinner, we ate leftover Xmas cookies and watched Love Actually.

Sunday, I drove to Target. Kitty litter! Cat food! New socks! Once home, I remembered that I had several Target gift cards. Oops.

Then, SCGB and I went to Panera for lunch (because the Unemployment Fairy left a Panera gift card by my door last week). After lunch, we went to the Whole Foods. Yay.

Later, I decided to put my new table set together. Screwing the stools (*heh*) together was hard, so SCGB brought down his electric drill. After we finished, we started drinking martinis and watching DVDs. Kristi came down. We drank more. We ordered pizza.

And, somehow, it was after midnight. They left. I went to bed.

This morning? V. hungover.

And, now for your viewing pleasure, a few photos from my trip:

This would be a lake. Somewhere in Virginia, near the NC border. Taking pictures while driving? Kinda hard:

In North Carolina, the roads are paved with diamonds! Sparkly!

College friends! At PF Changs! I haven't seen Ginger and Elisa (on my right and left) in over 15 years.

Oh, Christmas Tree: Thinking Outside the Box Edition. The wooden pole for the fake branches was missing, so I set up the tree in the wet bar sink in my brother's living room. And, the only strand of lights I could find was a 400-bulb set:


Now, I must get to cleaning. I'm hosting a New Year's Eve Champagne Tasting and Game Night.

*smooches*

I'm Supposed to Be Working

Happy Boxing Day, Kittens!

Like, OMG, wireless internet is a beautiful thing. I'm at a Panera Bread somewhere in Greensboro. And, ooooh, I can access my computer ... and I *should* be completing and emailing some job applications, but, well, I am blogging. Sosume.

Christmas with the family was good. As much as I totally *heart* my parents, good lord!, can they start to wear on my nerves after a couple of days. And there was No Alcohol to help! GAH! I could jes' die.

Here's a funny little story about how to tell if you are in North Carolina ...

My brother and I were watching the news on Tuesday evening, and the reporter was interviewing a man about his community's group dinner and, he said, and I kid you not!,

"It provides a good opportunity to conversate against each other."

Um. What? My brother actually hit rewind on the DVR so we could verify what we had just heard.

Conversate.

Against Each Other.

W.T.F?

And, then, my brother said, "And this wasn't live. They could've edited that out. That was the best quote they could get." *sigh*

Anyway, so the parents arrived. We had a nice, if somewhat sparse, Xmas. It's the economy, kittens.

My parents gave me a new pub table set for my dining nook. And, then, said, "we'll come up in April to get your old set for your brother."

Um. What?

I'm supposed to find storage space for an extra dining set until April? I think not. I mean, it's a good set (the chairs kind of suck though) and I understand my brother needing a set and the frugality of it all, but where am I supposed to keep it?

I also got the Doctor Zhivago DVD. *w00t* I can not tell you how much I like totes luv the Dr. Z. Please let's take a moment and quietly hum "Lara's Theme."

[moment]

Thank you.

And, that was the highlight of the presents ... I got a few more inconsequential things, like toothpaste and a lamp and a spurtle (from my slightly insane Aunt in Maine).

Today, there will be LOTS of boozing with the bro (once he gets off work). And, tomorrow, I am heading back to civilization (via Staunton, VA).

Have a great day. *smooches*

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Xmas

Good morning, Kittens!

Presents wrapped? Stockings hung by the chimney with care? Visions of sugar plums?

I have arrived safely in NC. Driving is (a) a bitch and (b) OMG super boring and (c) I don't know how BOSSY manages to take photos while driving, b/c I suck at it. You will see examples when I am able to upload photos.

A few things I learned whilst driving:

1. Apparently, in NC, the far left hand lane on an 8 lane highway is for people who drive exactly the speed limit.]
2. In NC, the roads are paved with diamonds. SuperSparkly! Srsly. I tried to take some pix. We'll see how they come out.
3. I hate driving. And drivers. And roads. And pretty much all things associated with cars, except "parking" (which I haven't done in ages).

Meanwhile, once safely in the G'boro, I lounged about my brother's apartment, and, then, went to meet several college friends for dinner at PF Changs. Yum. Pictures to come later, but my best friend from college, Isa, drove up from Durham. We had almost every class together (same major). Friends for 20 years. Crazy. Ginger drove over from Burlington. I don't think I've seen her since her wedding 15 years ago. And, Elisa, who friended me on Facebook, lives in Greensboro now. She transferred to another university after our sophomore year. It was so cool seeing all these lovely ladies again. The memories! The laughs! The good times!

After dinner (and picture viewing - Isa brought two of her college scrapbooks - OMG! So Young! So Cute!), Ginger and Isa left. Elisa and I headed over to Green Valley Grill, where we met my brother and some of his friends for drinks.

We got home fairly early (around 1130?). I opened my Xmas presents from Isa: a cookbook, a Whole Foods gift card (perfect!), and a bottle of plum wine from her trip to Okinawa (delicious! my brother and i had to taste it!).

Today, I have to get some work done. So, I'll be off to the Panera to partake of their free wireless after lunch. Have a great day!

Happy Xmas Eve!
(and, of course, to my Jewish friends, Happy ... um ... 4th Night(?) of Chanukkah!)
*smooches*

Family Matter: Xmas Edition

Good morning, Kittens.

By the time this publishes, I should *crosses fingers* be on the road, careening madly around the Beltway in my SuperCute PT Cruiser Rental towards that Valley of Humility, North Carolina. I figured I won't have time to blog in the morning, hence the scheduled post. Hurrah for Post-Scheduling!

I'm all packed (ok, mostly packed). I'll load the car in the morning.

There is already some drama. My brother called this evening. Apparently, my parents, who had originally told him that they would stay in a hotel, have decided that we need some Family Togetherness Time (please, shoot me now), and, thus, all four of us will be staying in his small one bedroom/one bathroom apartment.

Now, I love my family ... in small doses ... in places where I have space. And, actually, when it's just the three of us anywhere it's usually good. Put the four of us in a tight quarters for any extended time and bad. things. happen.

Hopefully, since it is only for 2 nights, we will be able to maintain some sort of uneasy equilibrium. However, I feel a stress headeache coming on. And my muscles hurt.

I am breathing in.


holding it...


and out ...

in ...


holding it ...


and out ...

Please send me Happy Vibes ... especially as I'm driving (from approx. 10AM-3:30PM).
And, if you are on the road b/n Silver Spring, MD and Greensboro, NC and see a SuperCute Silver PT Cruise bouncing crazily down the road, honk and wave! It's me!

I plan to post during the vacation. Eugene the Laptop is accompanying me, because I will need to job hunt while I'm down there. But, in case something prevents my posting ...

Merry Christmas, Christian Kittens (and Non-Christian-but-Celebrating Kittens)

*smooches*

Weekend Update: KBrrr Edition

Good Morning, Kittens.

I have a lot to do today. I'm heading to NC tomorrow ... so blogging may be a bit sporadic.

My weekend was good. Saturday, I had dinner at Jerry's. Then, we went to Slumdog Millionaire, which was a really good movie. Go see it. After the movie, we met Ray and SCGB for a drink at Nellie's. SCGB drove us home. Hurrah!

Sunday, I did some housework, wrapped some presents, and watched The Line of Beauty.

I'm off to pick up the rental car at noon. Then, cleaning and packing and organizing and coordinating. Good times. Really.

More later. *smooches*

PS. The Str8 Guy has posted some gift-wrapping advice.

Spleen Venting

Good Morning, Kittens. Happy Winter Solstice!

As I mentioned yesterday, the StickSteven 2008 Year in Review letter has gone out, and -as I could have predicted- the bitching and moaning has started. Usually, at least one person has an issue with it. I didn't put them in. Why didn't I draw this? Whatever. To those who complain, my standard reply is "you don't like my letter? Draw your own fucking letter." [Except, of course, when it's my parents. Then, I delete the "fucking."]

Some of you astutely noticed that I did not include Y in the letter. As standard practice, I tend not to include the people I'm dating or were dating during the year.

Yesterday, I had this little exchange with Y via IM:

Y: me no like sticksteven 2008
V: why not?
Y: ur almost as bad as the russians
Y: tearing pages out of history books
V: what? i included all major events of my life.
Y: "fireworks in nyc"
Y: i donno.. i thought something was missing...
V: i'm sure it wasn't anything important
Y: obviously wasnt important to you
V: i guess not

and, then, he shuts up and signs off.

Which did not give me the opportunity to say what I *wanted* to say which was ...

V: Would you rather I had drawn you in August/September? When I was laid off, attacked, and, then, ignored by the person who should have cared the most?

Srsly. I need a better man filter.

And, on that note, have a great day. *smooches*

Virtual Cleaning

Ok, kittens, how did it get to be afternoon already?

I spent the morning emailing my StickSteven 2008 Year in Review. Did you get yours? If so, YAY! If not, it's probably because I don't have your email address. And I can't access Facebook for some reason, which is what I was going to use to find email addresses that I don't have already.

Also, as I was moving down my blogroll, I noticed that it needs to be tidied up a bit. And updated. There are several blogs I read regularly that aren't on there. And, some blogs that have been abandoned (apparently). So, please do me a favor. If you read this blog and you aren't a recipient of LinkyLuv, let me know.

Have a great weekend. *smooches*

Drippy Crappy Rainy Blah

Good (no longer) Morning, Kittens.

I am moving so slow today. This morning, I had this really upsetting dream in which I had some friends over. I had to leave the apartment for a minute, and, when I came back, one of the guests had broken several pieces of my Japanese pottery. And no one would admit to doing it. Frustrating and sad.

Anyway, last night, I had a good time at Mark's. He has a gorgeous home. 3 cats. and a dog. We had cocktails and cheese and crackers. And, then, he made a pizza. We talked and drank and ate and talked and drank and around 11(ish?), he drove me home. Fun times.

No real plans for the day ... or the weekend. I'll just be tidying up, packing, cleaning, and getting ready for my trip to NC. I'll also be sending out the StickSteven 2008 Year in Review email. Maybe tomorrow.

Have a great day! *smooches*

A Good Night Out

Good Morning, Kittens.

I have been bad and sleeping late every morning this week. Tomorrow, I promise to get up early and be productive.

Not that I wasn't productive today (I've applied for a job!), but I want to be more productive. I'm leaving for NC in just. a. few. days. GAH! And, I'll be using the Nokia 6650 (haven't heard that bit of product placement in a while, eh?) to Guide My Way. It has an internal GPS thingy. And given my sense of direction (need I remind you of last year's aimless wanderings in the backwoods of NC's Appalachian Mountains?), a GPS is a very good thing. What would we do without cellphones? Srsly.

Last night, I went to McGinty's with some of the neighbors. It was good. We drank lots of beer and then did a celebratory tequila shot for SCGB, who is finished with exams for the semester. I love celebratory tequila shots. They make me feel all warm and fuzzy.

Then, I stayed up too late eating cookies with Kristi. On the plus side, I convinced her to call in sick today, so we're going to watch movies later. Yayz.

Tonight, I'm headed over to Mark's for drinks and nibbles. Should be a fun time.

Have a great day! *smooches*

Pontification

(And, no, this doesn't have anything to do with the Pope)

Today, BOSSY wrote a fun little post about evidence that the polar ice caps are melting. The comments have been quite interesting. I suggested, in the comments, that, if people were interested in learning more about the science of climate change, they might want to read The Weather Makers: How Man is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth by (respected scientist) Tim Flannery.

In the very next comment, someone countered by saying that people should read State of Fear, the well-researched (*cough*) and fictional story about the Global Climate Change Conspiracy by (respected science fiction author and creator of ER) Michael Crichton. Seriously, people, if you are basing your entire thought process about a significant global event on a work of fiction (and I'm looking at you Sen. Inhofe), then you may want to .. um ... I dunno, broaden your horizons a bit?

I'd like to think that having a Master's degree in Global Environmental Policy gives me some credibility here, and I'd like to put forward one of my favorite little ideas (right up there with the Polluter Pays Principle). I call it the "What If You're Wrong Theory."

People can disagree on the mechanism of climate change. They can disagree on whether it's anthropogenic or not. Hell, they can even be foolish enough to disagree that something weird is going on with our climate. However, take a look at it through the "What If You're Wrong" lens.

If I am wrong and climate change is not occuring and is not anthropogenic, and people and governments still make radical changes to mitigate climage change, what happens?

Hm. We move off a carbon-based economy. Developing countries get better, cleaner technology. Pollution decreases. Global standards of living go up. Seems good, even if there's no such thing as climate change.

Now, what if those people who disagree with me are wrong? What if climate change is happening and we don't try to prevent it?

Hm. Small islands disappear. Mass extinctions. More extreme/severe weather. Massive coastal flooding. Drought. Stronger storms systems. For an even more ghastly "what if" take a gander at Under a Green Sky: Global Warming, Mass Extinctions of the Past, and What They Can Tell Us About Our Future by Peter Ward.

Personally, I hope I am wrong. But what if ...

Preview Time!

Good Morning Afternoon, Kittens.

One of us couldn't get to sleep last night and, thus, is running a bit behind schedule today. I'm not sure what was the cause of the insomnia, other than my brain would not shut off. Not only was I thinking that I haven't applied to any jobs this week, but there was also an idea for a small part-time business floating in my head *and* I was thinking of the Nokia 6650 review that I need to write up *AND* I was on a Finally Completed the StickSteven 2008 Year in Review Holiday Letter High .

Here's a preview:

This year, I'm only sending it out electronically. I took a close look at my budget and decided that GIN was a better expense than STAMPS. Sorry.

SCGB is taking it to school today for scanning (pdf vs. jpg? who knows?). I've been making lists and lists of Good Little Boys and Girls who will receive the letter. I'm sure you are on it.

Today, must do laundry. And, then, the neighbors are gathering at McGinty's for beverages and to celebrate SCGB finishing his exams. Fun times!

UPDATE: If you would like to receive this year's StickSteven Letter [and you are not on my blogroll or I don't have your email address], you will either need to (a) email me at environy(at)gmail(dot)com or (2) wait 'til after the New Year when I post the letter to flickr.

*smooches*

Sugar Overload

Last night, my neighbor, Kristi, stopped by. "I've been baking cookies all day with a friend. Please eat some."

And, did we ever eat "some." If you define "some" as "so many cookies that it makes your head explode." And, I still have some more. Which I'm thinking of having for breakfast!

Homemade peanut butter cookies + coffee = Breakfast of Champions

The job search is not going well so far this week. Hopefully, by tomorrow, I'll have found 2 jobs to apply for. On the plus side, I've been determined to be "eligible" for a government job I applied to about a month ago. It's not a job I particularly want, nor is it with an agency I particularly like, but a job is a job.

Hm. Other things I accomplished yesterday ... I'm almost finished with the right front pocket shaping on the Never-Ending Cardigan of Doom, Take 2. Once the raglan decreases start, the front knits super quick. After finishing the front, all I will have left to do are the two sleeves, the seaming, the hood, the pocket edging, and the border. I should be done by .... hm .... does quick math calculation ... divides by 7 ... carries the 3 ... May!

Actually, finishing before pottery class starts (Feb. 16th!) might be an achievable goal. Then, I want to start a seamless sweater of some sort. I think.

Not much going on today. Maybe I'll finish wrapping my Xmas presents and buckle down and finish the StickSteven 2008 Year in Review Annual Holiday Letter. I have not been inspired. And only like one of the months so far. Although, I just got a good idea for January.

More later (maybe). *smooches*

Weekend Update: Party Edition

Good (still) Morning, Kittens.

I'm having a totally lazy day after a fun-filled weekend. My Friday evening was rather uneventful. I was tired from tramping all over Georgetown, so I mixed a cocktail and watched DVDs.

Saturday, I did a little bit of housework and wrapped some Xmas presents. At four(ish), after having a glass of wine at Kristi's, my friend, Robert, picked me up to go the DC Cowboys' holiday party in Great Falls, VA. OMG. It was so much fun. The couple who hosted live in a GINORMOUS multi-million dollar home (with a covered, heated pool in the back). There were lots of cocktails and appetizers. Then, a covered dish dinner. Dessert. Fun. Food. Really nice guys (and a couple of cuties, to boot).

It turns out that one of my graduate school classmates is now a DC Cowboy. Go figure. We had one class together, but he didn't remember me. Of course, it was 8 years ago and I had long red hair then. And, it took me a few moments to realize who he was as well. But, here we are (didn't I look SuperCute?):

I was talking to this one guy for awhile. I thought he might have been a friend/bf of one of the Cowboys, but he was a friend of the hosts. After dinner, they had a little raffle, and the guy said he didn't get a number because it was only for the Cowboys and their guests. So, I said, "Oh. Do you want my number?"

And, he said, "Sure, but I didn't bring any of my cards to give out."

And, I was, all, like, eep!, play it smooth, because I meant raffle number, not phone number. Fortunately, I did have a couple of my cards in my wallet. So, I gave him one. BUT, he hasn't called or emailed. Jerk.

I got home around 10 (I think). Then, SCGB and the German came down for drinks and conversation. Somehow I ended up falling asleep on my sofa. I guess the bed was just too far away.

Sunday, I did lots and lots of blobbing around the house. Then, last night, Kristi, Heather, and I baked sugar cookies for the residents who helped with the leaf-raking this Fall. That was fun. The cookies were good. I had a total sugar hangover this morning though.

And, I guess that's it. No big plans today. Although, I do need to head to the grocery store at some point.

*smooches*

12 of 12: Nokia 6650 Chronicles Edition

Good Afternoon, Kittens. I'm back from my day traipsing around DC. I'm going ahead and posting my 12 of 12, because I don't have any other plans for the day. And, really, photos of me blobbing on the sofa are a dime a dozen.

Mmm. Coffee. And Wonder Woman!


Reading Brideshead Revisited on the metro to DC


The Pompeii Exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. It was ... nice. Not quite what I expected.


The new LED installation, though, was SuperCool.


Ice skating in the NGA Sculpture Garden. $7 for adults + $3 skate rental for 2 hours. Wanna go?


Me and the Washington Monument. Why, yes, I did knit the scarf.


From the Mall, I metro'ed to Foggy Bottom and walked to Georgetown. Someone folded 1000 paper cranes for a sick friend.


Chipotle Vegetarian Burrito. Teh YUM.


I stopped by Stitch DC for some #7 dpns, but they didn't have any. The clerk told me how to get to the Exorcist Stairs. With annoying group who wouldn't move so I could get a clean photo.


From there, I decided to walk to Dupont Circle. Rock Creek from the M Street Bridge.


The Best Gin Ever, Leopold's, is now available in DC (Best Cellars in Dupont Circle).


Home at Last with very tired feetses and blogging with teh kitteh.


A few additional photos are can be found in my Flickr Set.

Have a Great Weekend! *smooches*

All photos today were taken with the Nokia 6650 which I've been test-driving for the past two weeks. I'll be posting a review of the phone tomorrow (hopefully). In the meantime, feel free to check out the phone (and even more of MY SUPERFUN PHOTOS (ok, and a few other peoples')) on the Nokia Chronicles website.

Friday Morning Quickie

Good Morning, Kittens.

Yesterday was a wash (literally and figuratively).
Today, I'll be out and about in DC taking shots for my 12 of 12, using the Nokia 6650 I'm testing (I think today is the final day I get to use it).

I'll be posting pics from today to the Nokia Chronicles (linked above) as well as Plurk and Twitter. Check back often.

Have a great day, and I'll be posting again later this afternoon/evening.

*smooches*

The Weather is Not Being Helpful

Good Morning, Kittens!

Yesterday, I started my StickSteven 2008 Year in Review Holiday Letter (You can see the previous years' letters here). The odd thing is that the only drawing so far that is remotely cute/funny is the drawing for the month in which the worst things happened. I suppose it lends credence to the theory that humor helps us get over things.

I also made BOSSY Broth. Here is the strained broth photo:

I have lots of broth in the freezer now. I also took about a cup or so, brought it to a boil, cooked some udon noodles in it, and then added a squirt of chili sauce (the Vietnamese sauce that has the rooster on the bottle. I can't remember what it's called). Delicious!

Then, I watched The Lost Language of Cranes. I may have a longer post about this in the future (but probably not). But, let's just say that watching this movie on PBS when it debuted in the US helped shape a lot of my ideas about being gay.

After that, I headed over to my across-the-hall neighbor's apartment for cupcakes. OMG. So yummy. She made green tea, mexican hot chocolate, and peanut butter cupcakes. Mmmm. I ate so many (and I'm having one for breakfast now). And, then, we played Apples to Apples.

Today, I had some plans of walking around snapping some photos for the Nokia Chronicles. However, the weather is not cooperating. I may postpone 'til tomorrow. Or re-evaluate at noon. We shall see. Plus, I need to head to Georgetown to run a few errands. I do not want to run errands in the rain. Yuck.

Have a great day!

*smooches*

This is All BOSSY's Fault

For three days, BOSSY has been all broth this and cleanse that, so much so that last night ... VUBOQ dreamed about making veggie broth.

And then this morning, BOSSY posted her "recipe" (which is actually kind of the way VUBOQ posts recipes), which was obviously a sign from the Blogoverse that I must Make teh Broth in the Style of BOSSY.

So I am.

See:

[pic taken with the Nokia 6650]

Except, I forgot to buy spinach.
And I added mushrooms. And a whole onion (with skin).
And a piece of dried kelp.
And what the fork is fennel anyway? Let's hope 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary are similar.
Oh, and I was out of garlic.
And, then, well, I had to add a little of Chef's Little Helper: a cup of dry vermouth.


So, see? Just Like BOSSY*!


I rock.


*smooches*

*Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery, right

Plans Postponed

Good Morning, Kittens.

Noticed that that SuperHandsome, Always Fashionably Dressed co-worker, who you ogled over your cubicle wall is absent today? Well, put your wedding fantasies on hold, dearie and have a Happy Day without a Gay! I wonder what I would have done were I employed ... would I have called in gay? Hm ... It is a good day for it. Dreary and rainy and blah.

I actually had made a few plans for today; however, the plans involved a lot of walking and picture taking and, well, the weather is not cooperating. Thus, I'm postponing until tomorrow (even though the weather is supposed to be crap tomorrow too, but I can plan and prepare for it. I'm working on a contingency plan now). I'm very excited about the possibilities. So, everyone hope for good weather tomorrow :-)

Meanwhile, I'll still be posting a picture or two (or more) today to the Nokia Chronicles. Have you played around on the site any? What do you think? I'll be posting my review of the Nokia 6650 on Friday (afternoon probably). In the meantime, keep an eye on twitter, plurk, and Facebook for my ping'ed updates. Or, just check back to the Nokia Chronicles. Tomorrow will involve using the built-in GPS. That should be fun.

I guess that's it for now. Have a happy day.
*smooches*

Play a Game with VUBOQ

Good Morning, Kittens!

Since I didn't really do anything of note yesterday (other than consume my weight in buttery popcorn dusted with grated fulvi romano), let's play a little game ...

How many differences can you spot?

First, the Purple Tinsel Tree photographed with my crappy cell phone camera:


Now, the Purple Tinsel Tree photographed with the Nokia 6650 in night mode (whatever that means):


I really need to find some (affordable) mirrored disco ball ornaments.

Today, I might do a some raking and, possibly, head down to the National Gallery of Art for a bit. Co-Op Board Meeting is tonight. I'm hosting.

Which means, I may need to clean. Fun!

Have a great day! *smooches*

Almost Famous

Harold, the cat's out of the bag ...

Awhile back, I was asked to test-drive a phone for Nokia. They've put up a website, Nokia 6650 Chronicles. Go there, click on "Chapter 2" and you'll see some pix taken by lil ol' me. Click on any of the pix I took and you'll be taken to "my" page and you can see EVEN more pix.

Assuming that the kind Nokia Powers-That-Be refill my go phone in the next few days, I'll be posting even more pix (and maybe some *bow-chikka-bow-bow* video) to that site, as well as to my Twitter, Plurk, and Facebook pages (via ping) and Flickr, like this one:



and this one:



At the end of the week, I'll be posting a no-holds-barred review of the Nokia 6650. Stay tuned, kittens.

Now, I'm off to dig my Xmas decorations out of storage. Joy! Rapture!

*smooches*

Weekend Update: Comfortable Sofa Edition

Good Morning, Kittens!

I had a superbusy weekend in which I barely moved from off my sofa. I *heart* my sofa.

On Friday, I thought about going out to happy hour. But, it was cold. Everyone was busy. And my sofa was so comfortable.

Saturday, I knitted. It snowed (just a dusting). And, later that evening, I headed over to a party hosted by some neighbors. Fun times.

Sunday, very. hung. over. And, I became Officially Old. Two kids were skateboarding on our sidewalk. It was annoying. So, I went out and told them they couldn't skateboard here. They left. I might as well have been banging on the window screaming "Get Off My Lawn!" *sigh*

And that was my weekend. Chock full of sofa-surfing.

Today, I have to fax my transcript to EPA for a position which closes tomorrow. No other plans. It's cold.

More later. *smooches*

Dear Whole Foods

Dear Whole Foods,

I tried to understand when you took my two favorite 365 Brand Natural Italian Soda flavors, pink grapefruit and lemon, and packaged them into smaller bottles. You tried to fool savvy consumers by charging $0.20 less, even though -on a per ounce basis- the cost is actually a little bit more.

I feared change was coming when my favorite 365 Brand Frozen Pizza with spinach, tomatoes, and feta disappeared from the shelves. And, lo and behold, change came: A slightly smaller, slightly more expensive 365 Brand Frozen Pizza with spinach, feta, and kalamata olives.

I have sworn off the soda, because, really, I shouldn't drink so much sugary fizzy stuff. I am giving the pizza a chance tonight, but will probably never buy it again.

But, Lord Help Me, if you fuck with my Pleasant Morning Buzz [24 oz. at $9.99], I will fly to Austin, Texas, and shank the fucker who made that decision. Then, I'll start shopping at Trader Joes. Do not doubt me.

Love and *smooches*,
vuboq

vuboq *hearts*

Lamey McLamerson of the McLameyville Lameys

Good morning, Kittens.

This blogs is spiraling into the Depths of Lameness (I'm pretty sure I must've been #12 on *that* list). And, to try to crack the top 11, I am now going to share with you my

Lame Fact of the Day:

A neighbor sent me a link to aol's free full CD holiday listening party. And the Very First CD I chose to listen to was this.*

AOL is also featuring some good albums. Go. Feel the Christmas Spirit.

Yesterday ... lunch with Ray was fun. We went to Teaism. I had the veggie burger. Yum.

Later that evening, I was presented with two conundrums (conundra? conundri?):

(1) I briefly considered inviting Y over to "watch a movie" [I didn't]**, and
(2) This superhot guy "in a committed relationship" kept hitting on me (online). and I was sorely tempted. [Nothing happened though ... meaning, I didn't metro over to his place like he wanted. Hey. A girl's got to have *some* standards.]

Then, I watched La Dolce Vita. And, um, does anyone want to explain what happened? I admit I wasn't paying complete attention. Knitting was involved. But, still, wtFork?

I went to bed late and slept in this morning. I have finished my EPA job essay (huzzah!). After I run some errands, I'll proof it and submit it. My errands are these: Go to the bank. Buy lottery ticket. Go to the grocery store. I have been out of coffee for 2 days. Life. Is. Hard.

No exciting plans for tonight. I should try to arrange a happy hour, but the initial feelers I sent out last night have not been met with enthusiastic responses. Maybe I'll stay in watching movies, eating popcorn, and drinking bourbon.

Tomorrow night, a neighbor is having a Christmas party (yay!) and on Sunday I may be joining Ray for an evening of frivolity. We shall see.

Have a great day! *smooches*

*Yes. That link is correct: "Merry, Merry Christmas" by NKOTB
**I am not liking this whole tehhotsteamysweatybuttsecks drought I'm in.

*sigh* Lame.

The Final Three

I'm back from the studio with my final three pots:

Here's a hand-built mug in Michigan Brown:



A hand-built vase in Lisa's Favorite Blue and Raspberry (which makes purple):



The vase has a major flaw in the back. It came apart during the bisque firing, so it won't hold water. Bah. I guess I could put a liner in it or something though ...

And, finally, another purple vase:



And, that's all the pottery goodness you'll hear about from me 'til mid-February when the class starts up again.

*smooches*

If My Life Were Any More Boring ...

Good Morning, Kittens!

Yesterday was full of fun and excitement.

I finished the rough draft to the essay required for the government job.
I knitted (see previous entry).
I put on "real" clothes (as opposed to spending the day in pajamas).
And,
I met a friend, Robert (not *that* Robert), for dinner. We went to Austin Grill. Mmm. I ate too much, but it was soooooo good. Mmmm.

Today, I'm meeting Ray for lunch at Teaism in Penn Quarter. Then, I'm metro'ing over to the pottery studio to pick up some finished work. Carolyn said she saw 2 of my final 3 items. Hopefully, the third will be done by the time I get there this afternoon.

Stay tuned for pictures.

*smooches*

Afternoon Knitting

Introducing the Never-Ending Cardigan of Doom, Take 2: The Back Panel



*waits for applause*

Where's VUBOQ

Good Morning, Kittens!

MSN "News" has made a glaring omission on their list of the 11 Lamest Blogs on the Intartubez. Let's just say I expected to be Number One.

Simply because yesterday I did not get off the sofa all day (except to eat) and I didn't change out of my pajamas all day.

Yes, my middle name is Pathetic Loser. How did you know?

Today, I *must* finish an essay for an EPA job, and I will be doing laundry later on. I'm trying to decide if I should venture forth unto the pottery studio to see if my final 3 pieces are out of the kiln.

I might wait to do that tomorrow. Gotta spread out the fun and excitement.

How about a photo of my kitty (taken with the Nokia 6650 I am test-driving):



More later. *smooches*

Meat-Free Monday: Curried Pumpkin Bisque Edition

Although, I suppose it was more of a soup than a bisque.

Good Morning, Kittens!

Yesterday, I slept in (hurrah!) and, then, worked on a government essay question (ugh). Oh, and I took a nap. Naps Rock!

Later, I managed to pull myself up off the sofa and walk to the bank (to deposit the money from the antiques show job) and the Whole Foods.

I decided to make this: Curried Pumpkin Bisque with Cheddar Cheese ... with a few modifications:

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups finely chopped onions
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (I used an entire bell pepper and didn't bother seeing how many cups that was)
1 teaspoon curry powder (i just shook a whole bunch into the pot)
5 cups (or more) canned low-salt chicken broth vegetable broth
1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1/2 cup one can crushed tomatoes with added purée
1/2 teaspoon dried rubbed sage one sprig fresh rosemary
1 cup (packed) grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Preparation

Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper; sauté until vegetables begin to soften, about 8 minutes. Add curry powder and stir 1 minute. Add 5 cups broth and next 4 ingredients and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes to blend flavors, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool slightly. Chill until cold, then cover and keep chilled. Rewarm over medium heat, adding more broth if soup is too thick.) Ladle soup into bowls. Top with grated cheese.

And, this was the result:

Hello, Chef's Little Helper!

OMG! It was so good! I ate TWO (and a half) bowls! YUM!

Have a wonderful day! *smooches*

(red)

World AIDS Day and I was inspi(red).



How about getting tested (if you haven't been in the past few months)?
Or donating a few pennies to your favorite HIV/AIDS charity?
Or helping VUBOQ figure out how he can set up an online auction of a couple of his pieces of pottery with proceeds going to VUBOQ's Favorite HIV/AIDS charity?

*smooches*

Weekend Update: Disaster Edition

Good morning, Kittens!

Guess who slept in this morning? It was lovely.

Most of my weekend was: Eat, Drink, Pie!, Sleep, Eat, Drink, Pie!, Sleep ... so not all that exciting.

I didn't go out on Friday night. Saturday I was up early to spend the day working the admissions desk at SCGB's father's antiques show. 10:30-6. $20/hour. Not too shabby. But a bit on the boring side ... the highlight of the day was probably this conversation I had with an Elderly Gentleman:

[after purchasing his tickets]
EG: You sound smart.
V: Thank you. I like to think I am.
EG: What's your major?

*heh*

After leaving the antiques show, I met Mark for chinese food. Mmm. Chinese food. I felt a little high maintenance, because, when I learned they didn't have exactly what I wanted on the menu, I made them make it for me.

See, it's like this ... I wanted something spicy, with tofu, and vegetables. They had non-spicy tofu with vegetables. And they had spicy tofu with peanuts (no vegetables). So, I asked them to add some vegetables to the spicy tofu and peanuts dish.

It was delicious.

After dinner, Mark came back to my place for tea and tart and conversation. Mmmm. Tart.

It was delicious.

Sunday evening, I had a few friends and neighbors over for a Disaster Flick Film Fest. We watched Volcano and The Swarm. We started compiling a list of Things We Learned from Disaster Movies:

1. Women get hysterical.
2. Men save the day.
3. Children get in the way.

I'm sure there were other important life lessons, but it will take watching many many more disaster flicks. After everyone left, I watched The Towering Inferno. Fun.

I'm glad Fred Astaire and the cat lived.

Today, I'll be working on a government job essay and running a few errands. If I am super-motivated, I may run over to the pottery studio to see if my final 3 pots are out of the kiln. Or I might wait a few more days on that. We shall see.

More later. *smooches*

Leftover Pie!

Good Morning, Kittens!

Guess what I'm having for breakfast (and lunch ... and dinner ... for the next few days)?

Spinach-ricotta pie
Vegetarian shepherd's pie
Sweet potato pie (2 kinds)
Cranberry Apple Walnut Pie
Apple Pie
Pecan Pie
and a buttery Apple Tart.
And one other kind of pie, but not sure what kind it is.

There was lots of pie! It was delicious. 13 people and lots of pie. Unfortunately, I forgot to take pictures. But we ate lots of pie.

And had hot apple cider with spiced rum.

And played games - Taboo and Catchphrase. Fun times. The last guests straggled home a little after midnight. I cleaned a bit and decompressed, finally heading to bed just before 3.

Previously in the day, I went to a delicious brunch hosted by an upstairs neighbor. Great food. And mimosas! Who knew champagne and orange juice went so well together? And provided such a great complement to breakfasty foods? Around three, the neighbor, her friend, and I, blogged on my sofa watching Home for the Holidays ... ah! The Disfunctional Family Thanksgiving! So much fun! Then, we made pie.

This morning, I am moving a little slowly. And I have to apply to at least one job today. Ack!

Have a great day! *smooches*

Thankitude

Happy Thanksgiving, kittens.

I've been sitting here for a few minutes wondering what to write. I could write one of those generic "Things I'm Thankful For" and include the same things everyone is thankful for: family, friends, food, health, happiness.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Then, I thought I could write the Anti-Thankful post and write about all those things I'm *not* thankful for: Winter Dry Skin, you'd be Number One. Constantly dripping toilet (but only in the Fall/Winter, which is *so* odd) would be Number 2. Ha. Get it? Toilet? Number 2? OMG. I kill me!

Then, I noticed that my hands smell like Pine Sol (*gag*), which I suppose is a nice change from smelling like the onions I chopped last night.

Then, I totally forgot the point I was going to make, if I was actually going to make a point. I'm not entirely sure, which is what happens when one is waiting until his neighbor's brunch (not for another HOUR!) to have his coffee.

So, anyway, I'm thankful for all of the things I should be thankful for. I have some of the best friends a guy could have. I have a family that doesn't drive me crazy 100% of the time. And I'm not thankful for lots of little annoyances, but nothing major ...

After brunch, my day is going to be filled with Christmas Movies and some pie baking. The Late Night All-Pie Thanksgiving Extravaganza and Game Night starts at 8(ish).

I hope your day is filled with as much fun (and booze!) as mine will be.

*Thanksgiving smooches*

Want Pie Now

Good Morning and Happy Thanksgiving Eve, Kittens.

To get you in the mood for the most important aspect of the holiday, watch this. Repeatedly.

Yesterday was quite productive. There are two openings at a certain federal agency where I have always wanted to work. I finished one application yesterday and will work on the other one this week (with the goal of submitting it by COB Friday). I am qualified for both positions, and for one of them, I feel I am uniquely qualified. We shall see ...

In the evening, I headed over to Mike's. He made quesadillas. I drank lots of wine (oops). Then, I came home.

As for the scathing Y blogpost, let's just say I thought better of it. The gist was that I am annoyed that, even though we are broked-up, he still expects me to be some sort of emotional support system for every minor crisis he has. I do not want that role, tyvm.

My plans for today are as follows:

1. Clean.
2. Clean.
3. Clean

I must start prepping for the Late Night All-Pie Thanksgiving Extravaganza and Game Night. Somewhere between 8 and 4 BILLioN people will be in attendance, which puts VUBOQ's Cocktail Party Alert System somewhere between "guarded" and "OM-FORKING-GOD PANIC PAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANIC!!!!" Should be a good time. Don't you want to come? Bring pie, booze, and games!

More later (perhaps). *smooches*

Give Thanks! VUBOQ is Blogging about Sweet Potato Casserole Again!

Good Morning, Kittens.

Aah... you can tell Thanksgiving approacheth when a majority of search engine hits on ye olde bloggie are for "Chelsea Clinton's Sweet Potato Casserole" ... After much research last year, I learned that Chelsea Clinton doesn't have a Sweet Potato Casserole. I'm so sorry, Fans of Chelsea. Maybe this will tide you over (re-posted from last year):

Not Chelsea Clinton's Sweet Potato Casserole
(I think it's my mom's ... but it could be someone else's)
(6-8 servings)

Ingredients:
4 medium sweet potatoes
9 oz. can of crushed pineapple
1/4 cup butter
1 egg (slightly beaten)
2 tsp salt1 tsp nutmeg
2 tbsp brown sugar
mini marshmallows

Cook and mash potatoes.
Add pinapple, butter, egg, salt and nutmeg.
Beat until creamy.
Spoon into baking dish.
Sprinkle with brown sugar.
Top with marshmallows.
Bake at 350 for 30 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
[Note: You may want to add sugar to potato mixture, especially if the pineapple is in its own juice and not in heavy syrup. Taste to check.]

I think I heard PeskyMac (although, I suppose I should start referring to her as Ms. Jumper or something) vomit a little in her mouth (assuming she read this post).

All the other hits yesterday were from some sort of Daniel Craig forum. Did you not hear me? He's mine. Back. Off. Kittens.

Meanwhile, yesterday, my morning started off with a flurry of activity. I ventured forth unto the Giant. The Late Night All-Pie Thanksgiving and Game Night will soon be here, and I needed the ingredients for the spinach-ricotta pie (from the Moosewood Cookbook) I'm making. I think I'm also going to make a spiced apple cider (with spiced rum on the side).

It looks like there will be about 8-10 people in attendance. Fun! Pie! YUM! The burning question on everyone's mind is "Will ShallowGal bless the event with her appearance or not?" Only time, and the promise of No Pictionary, will tell.

On the job front, I started the application process on change.gov. I believe there is a very small snowball's chance in a very hot Hades that anything will come of it, but what the hell? right? Also, there's a job opening in Midwestern Funky Town, home of both GayProf and the SuperFantastic Cuzin, for which I am considering applying. I seriously have to weigh the pros (GayProf! Cuzin!) versus the cons (OMG! FROZEN TUNDRA! SNOW! ICE! BRRR!).

Today, I must make a likker store run (yay!) and, later this evening, I'm heading over to Mike's to pick up the coffee maker I borrowed from a friend for the baby shower. I should also do some cleaning. And tidying.

And I have a boatload of packages to get ready to send out. Hopefully, that will be done in the coming week or so. Sorry I'm so slow about sending things out.

Have a great day, kittens! *smooches*

PS. What do you think of the new flickr banner at the top of the blog? Yes? No? Maybe?

Weekend Update: Daniel Craig is Mine Edition

Good Morning, Kittens!

I have a busy day today, so ... well ... I wrote this last night. Hurrah for scheduling posts!

Lessee. Saturday, I awoke a bit overhung. Shall we all curse the day we turned 30 and suddenly one or two glasses of red wine gives us a forkin' hangover? *sigh*

Speaking of wine, did I totally miss Beaujolais Nouveau Day? I think I did. I'm so sad. I normally buy a bottle or two and have some friends around for brie and foie gras ... um ... more brie. Mmm. Brie.

So, I am hungover and lounging on teh sofa (luv teh sofa! be teh sofa!) when my phone rings. It's Barbara, my SuperCool friend, the foreign service officer currently stationed in Marseille. I answer and she's all "HEY," in her Texan drawl, "I'm in DC. Let's do something."

A few hours later, we were watching Daniel Craig. I mean, um, Quantum of Solace. Which, if you didn't know, stars Daniel Craig. Mmmm. Daniel Craig. I've loved him since Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. And, since that was filmed in 2001, I called him a good 5 years before all you Casino Royale fans did. He's mine. Back off ... kittens.

After watching Daniel Craig run around, kill people, and blow thing up, we headed over to Austin Grill for food and bev. Then, I came home. Oh, the exciting life I lead.

On Sunday, there was a 10AM Co-Op Leaf Raking Party (*w00t!*). Then, around 2, Carolyn and I went to the pottery studio. I had three things to glaze (my last 3 pieces from this session), and I picked up loads of finished goods ...

Like this lovely bowl:



And this fantastic soup mug:



And this hand-built vase:



And a few more things.

Once home, I blobbed. I am good at blobbing.

Today, I am off to the Giant to buy teh groceries for the Late Night All-Pie Thanksgiving Extravaganza and Game Night. I'm making Spinach-Ricotta Pie. And, in a somewhat controversial move, I have banned Pumpkin Pie (what can I say? It's disgusting).

And I need to apply to a job or two.
And pay my quarterly health insurance premium. (*gah*)
And clean clean clean my apartment.

Have a good day! Perhaps more later. *smooches*

Soup's On!

Good (Almost) Afternoon, Kittens.

I had a busy morning. No time to blog until just. now. I had to go to the bank with another Board Member to make a deposit. Then, I bought a lottery ticket. Then, I had to find and apply to a job (which I did ... even though I don't really want that job).

Now, I can tell you about the soup I made last night. It was surprisingly delicious. In fact, I think I'll have some for lunch in a little while.

For the soup, I heated up some olive oil in a large pot.

Then, I added an array of spices (chili powder, cumin, pepper, cinnamon).

Of course, the cinnamon was a bit clumpy so when I shook it LOTS of cinnamon poured out. I tried to scoop out as much as a could, but the soup was still a bit too cinnamony.

Next, sauteed diced onion and carrot.

And sliced mushrooms.

And a couple of chipotles in adobo sauce.

Once those were all cooked, I added a large can of diced tomato.

Brought it to a boil, and pureed the hell out of it with my handheld mixer (which I LOVE!).

Added two cans of black beans.

Half a bag of frozen okra.

Half a bag of frozen corn.

Some water.

Boiled.

One cup of uncooked rice.

And some more spices.

Cooked until the rice was soft.

Easy. Peasy. Delicious.

SCGB thought it needed more salt. So he added some to his.

No pictures, unfortunately.

Instead, how about VUBOQ as a Puntabulous Person:

You can go over to his blog to see a lot of his readers as Puntabulous People! Fun!

Happy Friday! *smooches*

Retail Therapy

Good Afternoon, Kittens.

It's been a rather unpleasant few days (rejection! poor job prospects! running. out. of. booze!), so I did what any Red-Blooded, Apple-Pie-Eatin', Mom-Lovin' American would do:

I went shopping ... (and here's where the BOSSY's Poverty Party part kicks in) with other people's money! HUZ-ZAH!

Yesterday, my parents sent me a Thanksgiving card and, inside, was a CHECK! Mom gets some sort of annual Life Insurance Dividend, which she graciously gives to my brother and me. So, I deposited the check (two deposits in two days! I rock!) and hit the local DSW!

Where I bought these:

CUTE, no?

AND, I had a $10 off coupon. So I spent $10 less of Other People's Money! *w00t!*

Then, I went next door to the Borders, where I bought these:

Using my Borders Reward Certificates (from my Borders Visa). I have said this before and I will say it again, "If your credit card doesn't have any perks (miles/points/free things from Borders), you have the wrong credit card." [Oh, and, btw, I refuse to carry a balance. Paying interest is full of teh suck.]

Anyway, two fab Xmas CDs at $6.99 each + tax = $14.82. I paid using 3 $5 Reward Certificates and got $0.18 change. HAH! Borders just paid me to take those CDS. What a nice book store.

Next, I headed to the Whole Foods for groceries ... where I spent the remaining Mom Money (and I treated myself to nice cheese! Hurray for nice cheese!).

And, that is how you go shopping, buy lots of fun stuff, and not spend any of your own money!

*smooches*