Marley & Me

This afternoon I went with a few friends a went to see the move Marley & Me. Now, if you take the description straight off the movie website, it's about an ambitious young reporter, John Grogan, and his wife, Jenny, who is also a reporter. They move to a Florida, buy a house and adopt a Labrador puppy and name him Marley. Marley quickly becomes a rollicking force of nature in their lives.

But that's only the beginning of the story and I would be ruining the movie if I told more, so why stop there? That's what blogs are for! No, I won't ruin it. But I have come to realize that I really missed out not having a dog for a pet growing up. I know in earlier blogs I've mentioned that I was raised with some sort of phobia about animals. I'm getting over it. I truly loved Marley & Me and the only thing I would change about Marley is that I would call in a real dog trainer, not Kathleen Turner. Did anyone else recognize her???

What we have to do is really commend John Grogan, the author, for his humanity to the simple yet complex creatures around us. There are so many and they come in all sizes; from horses to dogs, and from all manner of bird life to the cats that wish to eat them! There are the beautiful sea creatures like dolphins and porpoises to sea lions and walruses. I can't even begin to cover the land animals in Africa. If you have the opportunity, take a safari. but if you can't do that, find something nearby and travel there. I am still trying to visit the Grand Canyon and its beauty. I've been told about it so many times and seen so many pictures of it, I think I'm homesick.

So, enjoy your day, your world, and the animals around you.

And please have a safe and Happy New Year!

Cheers!

The day after Christmas

If you're like everyone else-or like me, you started shopping for those special gift in September, or before and ran out and got the last one(s) Christmas Day. This was a lean year so we improvised a lot. Home baked cookies went far. The inexpensive Chicago caps that you pick up at Walgreen's was at hit (I was mildly surprised at that one!) and hubby baked an apple pie for our son. We did get regular gifts for others too, but next year hopes to be much better-but I always say that.

The problem is the day after. Last night, after all the gifts had been opened, we sat around with silly grins on our faces and just enjoyed the moment. Now, mind you, there is nothing wrong with that! But as my wise pappy says; "All that fussing and fixing, for just a few moments and then it's gone!" Ah, but what a few moments it was!

So what did we do today? Sadly, not too much of anything. I felt depressed because I felt the holiday was over. Although I shouldn't feel that way. We attended Christmas Eve service along with millions of others and heard a wonderful message that should keep me going, I just forgot it! Sometimes I think about Hanukkah and the festival of lights, then there's Kwanzaa, and Three King's and that's not until January sometime! I think I'm going to keep the decorations up all year because it must be Christmas somewhere in the world in some form.

Don't you think?

I'll end with homage to the wonderful Charles Schultz who had the right idea with a Charlie Brown Christmas. Poor Charlie Brown couldn't get anyone to listen to him when he was trying to direct a simple Christmas pageant. When he finally gave in one last time, Linus, his best friend told him the true meaning and to make up for their bad behavior, the gang asked Charlie Brown to buy a tree. Although he bought the worst tree in the lot, through their love it became a true Christmas tree.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Cheers!

Ice Age 3

I have to admit that I have been negligent in attending to any blogs, I ask your forgiveness. I've been looking for a job. I know, I should have just moved from the job site over to my blog site and that should have been that! My only excuse is that I get real tired after four hours in front of a computer! So, I've decided to write by blog first. The other problem is that while we've been stuck at home the Midwest has been hit with two blizzards within the past week. As I write this, the wind is howling outside my den window. I have decided to find something positive about all of this and since we loved the movie Ice Age, I am looking forward to the July, 2009 opening of 'Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs.'

The synopsis goes that the sub-heroes from the worldwide blockbuster 'Ice Age' and 'Ice Age: The Meltdown' are back in an incredible adventure. Scrat is still trying to nab the ever-elusive nut. He even may find true love along the way! But love is fleeting.

Manny and Ellie await the birth of their mini-mammoth and Diego the saber-toothed tiger wonders if he's growing too 'soft' after hanging around with Manny and his pals. And Sid the Sloth gets into trouble when he creates his own makeshift family by hijacking some dinosaur eggs.

On a mission to rescue the hapless Sid, the gang ventures into a mysterious underground world, where they have some close encounters with dinosaurs, battle flora and fauna, run amuck, and meet meet a a relentless, one-eyed, dino-hunting weasel named Buck.

I find this centers all around the animals. I'm just waiting for some human to pop in the story-you know, probably from 'Ice Age'. Now that would be interesting! I loved that kid!

Visit their website at http://www.iceagemovie.com/

Cheers!

The Black Canary Barbie

I was running through the Internet as usual today when I ran across an article on a new Barbie doll called the Black Canary Barbie. I picked up on this one because I had never seen anything like it and I thought it was new and interesting!
Needless to say, the Black Canary Barbie is one of those perfectly harmless items that has come under attack. As the Chicago Sun-Times reports, a British Christian organization has attacked the Mattel toy company for releasing a Barbie doll dressed as the DC comic book heroine known as the Black Canary. The doll is clad in black, as the name suggests and in accordance with the character, and her habiliments consist of a leather body suit, jacket, gloves, boots, and fishnet stockings.
The dolls are intended mainly for adults, as part of the Barbie Loves Pop Culture series, and cost more than twice as much as the Barbie dolls marketed to children. One would imagine that the great majority of parents would steer their little dears toward the more conventional options in the Barbie line.
What I would like to know is; whatever happened to Skipper?? Now I had a Skipper doll when I was growing up. I did not like Barbie, my older sister had Barbie. I loved Skipper, she was just perfect! I loved combing her long blond hair and I did not mind she was Barbie's younger sister, we could relate!

The Skipper doll was released in 1964, 5 years after Barbie, and retired in 2003. She was restructured many times in between but many collectors consider the early '60 Skipper dolls to be superior in quality to those produced later on. I always thought so!

Anyways, I never had a baby doll or anything, I only had my Skipper and I'll stick to it. I hope today's girls are able to find something they'll love too!

Cheers!

Patty Blagojevich

Cubs' game, was Patty jealous????

So, I hear today on the news that the FBI knocked on the governor's door this morning at 6am. Poor guy. But I guess he was already up.

It was his kids I was concerned about. They had school and were about to get ready I'm sure but nobody wants to see their dad led away by the FBI unless you think that's cool or something.

Anyway, good old Rod got out on $4500 bond and is back home tonight. Everyone knows what he was trying to do. Of course he's brought the state to a new low-we've all heard that one-by trying to sell President-Elect Obama's recently vacanted senatorial seat. Besides that, he's bribing The Tribune and telling them he wants them he wants some favorable editorial staff. Oh yes, the Children's Hospital thing. Something about not getting some campaign funds that were promised, so he's withholding about $8 million. Deal with it, Rod!!!!

No, what really gets me is Patty. Now the FBI has this chick on tape talking about the Cubs, yes my Cubs, in an abusive and foul manner.

Much of the information authorities collected came from bugs in the governor's campaign office and his home phone, U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald said at a press conference Tuesday. The prosecutor said Mrs. Blagojevich was referenced in the complaint, but he would not describe her involvement further.
"I'm not going to comment on anyone not charged," said U.S attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
According to the affidavit, in one profanity-laced account, Patricia Blagojevich was allegedly heard in the background of a call between her husband and someone identified as "Deputy Governor A" advising the governor on how to handle The Chicago Tribune, which had published an editorial critical of the governor.
"F--- them," Patricia Blagojevich is quoted as saying, according to the affidavit. In an apparent reference to the Tribune Company's attempts to sell Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs, she urges the two engaged in the phone call to "hold up that f---ing Cubs s---."

Now, I hope that she is ashamed, ASHAMED, of herself! I would not be able to hold my head up in public! I think we have our new Cubs scapegoat, and her name is Patricia Blagojevich!

Cheers!

Disney films

All this month old Disney flicks will be making the rounds at several cable channels near you.

"Treasure Island," "Swiss Family Robinson" and "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" (Which was shown today, 1:45 and 4 p.m., Turner Classic Movies) and is just the of TCM's Sunday family film showcase. Also going on this weekend are the sob story "Old Yeller" (Sunday at 6:15 p.m.), 1961's original twin trick "The Parent Trap" (8 p.m.), Hayley Mills again in "Pollyanna" (10:15 p.m.), and young TV apprentice Kurt Russell getting program picks from a chimp in 1971's "The Barefoot Executive" (12:30 a.m., all on TCM).

Now that I've given you a run-down of this months good old Disney flicks that shouldn't be missed, let's go over them. Also, how many of you remember these films? I barely remember 'Treasure Island' made in 1950, but there was a sequel made in 1954 called 'Long John Silver'. I don't think that went over too well. There was also another 'Treasure Island' in 1990 with Charlton Heston, some say the original title was 'Devils Island'.

I truly enjoyed the original Disney 'Swiss Family Robinson' and have found that there are a total of 7 films that are adapted from the 1812 novel. There are also 6 TV shows including 'Lost in Space' which I grew up on, and 9 made for TV movies. That many, huh?

Whatever happened to those days when the lead actor was so manly? The best we can do nowadays is Hugh Jackman. He really is kind of good looking, but some of these other goof offs had better look to the old films-give me Kirk Douglas getting tossed around by a sea monster any day! On top of that he saves the day by banishing Captain Nemo and the Nautilus to the bottom of the sea, supposedly, there's the sequel 'Mysterious Island' to think of.

James Mason made a great Nemo and the ending was actually sad. As with all great films there have been remakes, but none really showed up until 1996 and then came 4 more. My favorite among those is 'The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen'. Maybe it's because I've always loved Sean Connery, the movie itself is not that good. Although the special effects are tremendous! Connery is the only actor who really puts some feeling into his role. I know if he read this, he'd laugh. That's a good Scotsman. I also loved the Nautilus in the movie. Like I said, the special effects are awesome! This has the same ambiance that 'Hunt for Red October' had. It takes a large screen TV and a dark room to enjoy!

This brings us to 'Old Yeller'. A great tale of boy loves dog and vice verse. How can you not get attached to a cute little bundle of fur, watch him grow up over a summer or two and then while protecting the younger little brat the poor dog gets rabies and goes mad. Well, that's it. Dog must die. I did cry when I watched this-a long time ago. But I just watched an interview with the kid who played the little brother and had all this blond hair. He's bald now and has quite a sense of humor. He mentioned a scene in which he had to hold a bear cub so the mother bear would attack. For some reason she wouldn't do it right and it took quite a few takes. He doesn't like bears. Oh yeah, they really didn't kill Ol' Yeller.

I loved 'The Parent Trap'! But I think Hayley Mills was always too upper crust! I don't quite remember but I don't think she ever lost her English accent. I always did like Brian Keith and Maureen O'Hara though. The remake in 1998 starred Lindsey Lohan in the title role and Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson. I really thought Lohan brought out a lot of the 'kid' quality that we should see especially in the camp scenes. Kids really do things like that! They raid others cabins and fight-it's fun! I just wonder what happened to that part of Miss Lohan, if it ever existed...

What can I say about Pollyanna? The little orphan that everyone comes to love because of her positive attitude. It was filmed in 1960 and gave newcomer Hayley Mills a huge boost to her career. Disney followed up a few years later with 'Polly' (TV version)starring Keisha Knight Pulliam in 1989 and immediately after that came a sequel 'Polly: Coming Home'.

Which brings us to Kirk, ah Kirk. I have grown up with you! I caught the interview on TV where you were watching yourself and said, 'I'm so young!' Sorry, yes we were all young at one time or another. 'The Barefoot Executive' is mostly a silly movie that I just like to watch so I can sit back and enjoy. Kirk brings his girlfriends chimp into a movie studio and its discovered that the monkey can rate TV shows. The long and short of it is, money is offered for the chimp and should boy sell pet or not? Hmmm....You'd know already if you saw the movie. It costars Joe Flynn-who we loved in McHale's Navy, Wally Cox, Heather North, as the girlfriend, John Ritter, and Harry Morgan. There was a remake in 1995 for the Disney Channel starring Nathan Anderson and Terri Evans.

So, I've gone a little outside my comfort zone tonight, hope you like my blog, have a great day!

Cheers!

Mantis Shrimp

I saw this article on shrimp and though "Wow, now there's something I can enjoy!" Nope! This is Mantis Shrimp-big difference from the yummy fried stuff I enjoy at Red Lobster or wherever I might get a good shrimp dinner.

I found out Mantis shrimp are marine crustaceans and are neither shrimp or mantids, but get their name from the physical resemblance to both the bug praying mantis and shrimp I love so much! They may reach up to 12 inches in length.

In Australia they are called 'prawn killers' an sometime referred to as 'thumb splitter' or ' claw shrimp' by modern divers-because of the easy way the Mantis shrimp mutilates small appendages. Mantis shrimp can break through aquarium glass with a single strike from one of these appendages-although it is said to be rare.

They spend most of their time hiding in rock formations or burrowing in the sea-bed. Then they wait for their victims to come to them. They rarely ext their lovely homes except to feed and relocate, most are nocturnal, I happen to think the Peacock Mantis is one of the prettiest I've seen-his/her picture is above. Oh yes, most species are found in tropical or subtropical regions.

I found this to be interesting, but slightly ewwwy. There around 400 species of Mantis shrimp which have been described worldwide; all living species are in the suborder Unipelata. They are commonly separated into two groups determined by their claws.

One is called Spearers and are armed with spiny appendages topped with barbed tips used to stab and snag prey. The other, Smashers, have a club and developed a much more rudimentary spear; the club is used to bludgeon and smash the meals apart. Oh yummy.

Now for the really interesting part, the cooking. In Cantonese cuisine, the Mantis shrimp is a popular dish known as "pissing shrimp". Ewwwww! That's because due to to its tendency to 'ahem' urinate when cooked, so they're speared prior to cooking to help alleviate the situation.

I will never, ever order Mantis shrimp. Never!

For more information on the Mantis shrimp, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mantis_shrimp

As far as owning one of these creatures, it's not out of the question. Just don't put them with other fish. They are carnivores, after all. I again found another interesting article on whether or not Mantis shrimp are pets or pests, visit; http://saltaquarium.about.com/cs/msubpestmshrimp/a/aa110498_3.htm

Thank you reading my blog and have a good day!

Cheers!

Victoria's Secrets

What a beautiful show! I have always enjoyed watching those lovely girls try and balance on those high shoes down that walkway in those wonderful costumes the designers come up with. I must admit I lost interest after about 20 minutes, though. I did see the angels wings and the backstage part, so that was cool. I figured it covered about everything.

There were plenty of big names on hand for last month's taping at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach, among them Paris Hilton in a plunging black number. Christian Siriano was in skinny jeans and shiny shirt.Terrence Howard was set for Miami in white pants and shirt with striped blazer. If you like that sort of thing...
DOUBLE DAZZLER-This $5 million Black Diamond Fantasy Miracle Bra contains 3,900 gems, including 120 white diamonds and two jumbo black diamonds - 1,500 carats in all.

Personally, I find that sort of thing rather uncomfortable. Has anyone ever tried a Miracle Bra on? I'm still struggling with 'Lift and Separate!' But if they want to pay me for the bra-hey, I'll guess I'll take it off they're their hands, but I find that unlikely.

Hope you had a chance to catch the show, if not keep your eye out for next years version!

Cheers!

Unemployment

What can I say about unemployment-that I've joined it? After almost 18 years with virtually the same company, I was laid off. It's not much different from many others I suppose. But when it happens to you it really is hard. It hit home over 3 years ago when hubby's company moved to Indiana and didn't take any employees with them. We held on with one paycheck and unemployment until a temp job came through-but that ran out. Now we're both in the state line filing unemployment, or whatever. Guess what? I hate it. I have worked ever since I was 15 and never stopped-except when my son was born. I was never fired, never laid off. I always walked off a job, or quit. So this is so new!

I now have my resume up to snuff-I hope and I'm looking for something I will enjoy. They say those jobs don't exist but I'm being optimistic and hoping for the best. I've got to because if I don't I will become like a walking zombie or something.

I have already gone over why corporations lay people off around Christmas with those around me; and have gotten this answer, it is because they wish to 'clear the year end books'. It's such a pat answer and yet it puts everything in perspective for the company. But what about the employee?

They have lives to lead, families to feed, a holiday they probably were looking forward to. And because the 'books had to be cleared' it all got blown up! WELL, EXCUSE ME! We did not get golden parachutes and many of us did not get severance packages. I'm fighting to get some sort of health insurance. I am blessed because I had a friend at church praying over me to get insurance-I just found out the insurance I thought was good, is in fact not registered in my state. Bummer. So, I keep looking.

So now that I have blown off some steam I sincerely hope you will excuse me and I will continue to write my blogs on lighter subjects. Thank you for all of your patience!

Please visit my website anyway at www.bananastoyou.com

Cheers!

Chicago's Christmas Lighting

What I saw was beautiful! Hubby and I were supposed to meet our son at the train in Highland Park at 11:38a.m.-there was no way. We were coming all the way from a wedding in Orland Park, but that's another blog. So we went ahead and caught the 2:10 from Waukegan. The train ride was nice until I got some little brat kicking my seat! Then I made strangling gestures with my hands and I passed the time quite nicely. We ended up at Olgivie Station which was new to me-we always had stopped at Union Station so I was I little lost.

But we as soon as we stepped off the train that wind hit you! It was cold! And we still had to walk to State Street! On the way we passed 3, count them three empty trolleys that are supposed to be free that run back and forth from State Street to the train stations. I will go next time-if and only if I can get one of those trolleys. Hubby says we have to have a bus pass to use the bus and taxis are too expensive. So we walk.

After the 5 block walk to State we walked another four blocks to Macy's and looked at the windows, they were nice. I really did notice the little trains on top of the subway entrances. Cute.

Then we made our way over to Water Tower Place and the Christmas Parade where we waited in the biting cold for one hour. No, I did not know I was going to wait for an hour. I also did not know that I was going to see this parade. I only wanted to see the lights themselves! We didn't even get to the front we were about six rows from the barriers. Now, hubby and I are short, he's under 5 foot 6 and I'm under 5'4". Short. If I got any pictures it was because I stuck my camera way up high.

So, disgusted after watching Mickey, Goofy, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Chip & Dale and the new Bolt movie personal go by, we decided we were tired of the pushing and shoving. Unfortunately, to get out we had to ask permission to push and shove to get out of the human jello mass that had congealed behind us! I was so upset because some people were actually grabbing at me for so unknown reason! WE WERE TRYING TO LEAVE! Oh well, we finally got out by remembering where we were at and joining forces with another women and saying GOOO!!!!!! and pushing our way through. It may have been rude, but ask me if I give two cents, at that point, I was just happy that the kids who were able to see the parade were still happy. Me? I was glad to get away. If you ever get a chance, go downtown, on a weekend and take advantage of Metra's weekends rate-you can't beat it. And I sure would not miss those Christmas lights. Only take a trolley-or a bus, you only need exact change!

As for the rest of the trip-it was interesting. The rest of the gang beat us back to Olgivie Station by running. Ah ha, we took the long way around by State Street, though.

And again I made strangling gestures on the train. All in all, we were happy to get home and a hot cup of chocolate-something of which they had nothing downtown. Does someone want to clue these people in??????????

Cheers!

A Hockey Game

We had a chance to go see the Chicago Blackhawks play hockey a couple of weeks ago at the United Center and I count my lucky stars! They won! We had never been to the new United Center and looked forward to going to the game ever since my son asked if we were doing anything that Sunday evening. No, but would we like some tickets to a Hawks game? Sure!

The drive from Gurnee down to the United Center took exactly one hour, traffic moved so quickly! We got to the humongous and welcoming doors of the UC at 4:10 p.m where we were ushered out of the biting Chicago wind to wait until 4:30 and the doors to the stadium could be opened. From there we walked up and around the winding halls of UC enjoying the catcalls of the various vendors as we passed by. I did go up to the counter selling pennants and promise we would be back after the game, and I kept my word.

From there we proceeded to the 3rd level and found our seats at mid-court. As I've already mentioned we were extremely early, so we passed the time chatting with the nearby guide who was an avid Sox fan. She pegged us Cubs fans, after she asked where we were from. But we all had a good laugh and decided we were all Hawks fans anyway. Then hubby and I walked around the whole stadium to kill time. Whatever you do, do not go there hungry unless you can afford it! A regular hot dog cost $4, and that's the cheapest thing on the menu. I think water is more expensive than pop! Remember though that you go for the atmosphere and I suppose that is what you will be paying for, and they do have a few places with a lot of that so shop around! One nice place was called the Ironworks.

OK, so we didn't eat, but we did enjoy the game. The people were fun and amiable and just a riot to be with. I can't remember another time when I've ever been at another sporting event where another fan has been so friendly-and that includes Wrigley Field!

So, what game did we go to? It was Blackhawks vs Calgary Flames, Hawks won 6-1. I think they've only won one game since, but hey, we saw a great game when they DID win!!!!

Cheers!

Wedding Cakes

I would like to mention wedding cakes in this blog. Not just any old cake, some Kuwaiti wedding cakes. You see, some pictures were sent to me by and email friend and I was of the opinion that people really could not live like that! It was truly too obscene! So I Googled it. What else?

Lo and behold under the heading, "Kuwait wedding cakes" were the very same pictures. Unfortunately it gave no further background other than they were created by Omar from the Opera Cafe in Kuwait.

I don't think I've ever squeezed so many pictures into one blog, but I couldn't pass this up.

Enjoy!

Veteran's Day

Today Veteran's Day was observed in the United States and around the globe. It is the day we solemnly note the sacrifices made by those who have put their lives on hold for a while so that we all may have live normal lives ourselves. And in the case of so many we remember those who have made the extreme sacrifice and have lost their lives in time of war.

U.S. President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed an Armistice Day for November 12, 1919. The United States Congress passed a concurrent resolution seven years later on June 4, 1926, requesting the President issue another proclamation to observe November 11 with appropriate ceremonies. An Act (52 Stat. 351; 5 U. S. Code, Sec. 87a) approved May 13, 1938 made the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday; "a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day'."

In 1953, store owner Al King, thought that all veterans should be included so he began a campaign to turn Armistice Day into "All Veteran's Day". With the help of then-U.S. Rep. Ed Rees, from Emporia, Kansas a bill for the holiday was pushed through Congress. President Dwight Eisenhower signed it into law on May 26, 1954.

My Minute to Move It

Yesterday I had stopped in at McDonald's and noticed they had a new Happy Meals campaign starting, it had to do with Madagascar 2: Escape 2 Africa. So I got more curious and checked online. It goes a little further than that. They've got this whole big thing set up where McDonald's is gently urging kids to take 60 seconds a day and DO SOMETHING! Actually it's a sweet sentiment. I even went on the website and its all set up for kids to interact and gives suggestions on what they might do with their 60 seconds. I hate to break the bad news, but if a kid can't find something to do nowadays, he/she is in real trouble. Then again, I remember those days when I would go in to my mom whining, 'I've got nothing to do.' Oh, there was stuff to do, I just didn't want to do it! You know, good stuff, like going out and play with my sister. My brother was a brat and we didn't play with him.

The neat thing about today's kids are that things are so accessible. They can get to the mall easily-not for shopping-but for a good movie, or better yet, for a good ice rink. Better yet, hopefully there would be a bowling alley around. I know some kids who love bowling. I mean little kids! They bowl better than me! My thumb gets sore. Ah well, I guess I'll just stick with cooking.

Back to McDonald's, if you get the chance, stop by and get a Happy Meal and spend 60 seconds with a kid, you'll never regret it. Me? I just want the moving toy.

Cheers!

First Dog

Jino on Petfinder.com-Basenji/terrier

When Barack Obama gave his acceptance speech, he thanked his campaign manager, his wife, Michelle and then his two girls, Malia and Sasha. He promised them a new puppy. The problem comes in when allergies to said puppy enter the picture.

I grew up with allergies in our household. I was lucky, I was not the one with the allergies to animals and I love them dearly. I have been craving a dog for years but the thought terrifies me. Don't ask why, I don't know, it's something that I was brought up with. But I think I'm getting much better. I can now pet and even let any dog lick me. I have to wash my hands right away, though. But isn't that normal??

Anyway, I think have an answer to President-elect Obama's dilemma, get a mutt. Not just any mutt-get a Basenji/poodle/terrier mix. Basenji from Africa, to celebrate the African background, poodle to show a stiff upper lip, American style, and of course, a bit of terrier, the standby of White House dogs, which had showed themselves to be stalwart animals always! The nice thing about all three breeds is that they all hypo-allergenic. Go to a local shelter and check it out. In fact, go online to Petfinder.com and look for a breed. You can find anything there. There are shelters all over the United States and Canada so your options are limitless.

I go there just to dream. I love Dachshunds. I always thought you should get a mix because they would be healthier. That's what everyone has told me. I've also been told to go to a shelter and save a pet. I also have a friend who will help me find said pet!

So, Mr. President-elect, I doubt if you will have time yourself to find the girls a pet, ask someone who is knowledgeable about the breeding of dogs and have them check on a good pet for the girls. Again there is great information on Petfinder about which dogs are compatible with kids. Good Luck and may you find the puppy you will love!

For anyone interested click on Petfinder.com and start your own search for any dog OR cat!

Cheers!

Joy Yee Noodles

We were out yesterday and had the good fortune to be in the neighborhood of Joy Yee Noodles. Actually, we were only looking for someplace to eat when the friends we were with suggested this Chinese place. Well, this Chinese place turned out to be a Korean place with the most interesting menu I have ever seen! The menu contained pictures of all the dishes so you could see what you were ordering and there these slushes and fresh fruit freeze drinks also. We all ordered something different so we all had a bit of each others. Of course we ordered egg rolls and Crab Rangoon, and four different courses. Now that's a meal!

I think there was Mongolian Beef, Szechwan Beef, Thai Curry Chicken Hot Pot and I had Sesame Chicken. As I said, we all had a bit of each others and yet there was still a ton for dinner tonight. Joy Yee's gives you large portions. I always take extra home. I think it's expected.

They also have chopsticks along with a fork-no knife at the dinner table. So, if you know how to use chopsticks you're in for a treat! You're more than welcome at Joy Yee's!

There are 5 locations in the Chicagoland area. We visited the Nashville one. Please check out the link for the nearest one to you:

http://www.joyyee.com/index.shtml

Cheers!

Bloody Cider Punch

On this eve of Halloween, I would like to submit a wonderful punch I saw made on the Rachael Ray show last Friday. Of course she had several other recipes to go with it but I was looking for something fast and easy. This one did ask that you freeze a few things ahead of time-but that's where the easy part comes in!

Bloody Cider Punch

Ingredients
1 quart orange juice
1 bunch seedless green grapes
1 bunch seedless red grapes
2 quarts apple cider
1 quart pomegranate juice
2 liters seltzer water

Preparation
Fill a couple of ice cube trays with the orange juice and freeze. Pick the grapes off the vine and freeze them as well.When the juice and grapes are frozen and you're ready to serve, combine the cider and pomegranate juice in a large punch bowl. Stir in the seltzer and fill the bowl with the frozen orange juice and grapes.

Please visit Rachael Ray's site for more great recipes by clicking here.

Cheers!

Working on Fitness

Everyone knows that staying fit should be a yearlong commitment it's just that some seasons come with more than their fair share of challenges. The holiday season-with the treats, family gatherings, parties and hearty meals that come with it and probably the extra pounds you're going to put on!

Here are a few things we're rehashing on maintaining your fitness goals throughout a busy holiday schedule:

Park your car farther away from your destination (at the mall, work, the store, etc.) so that you're walking more-and burning more calories-every day. (I love asking hubby to park far away-he such a gentleman when he wants to drop me off at the door!)

Always take the stairs instead of the elevator. (Come on-a few steps can't kill you!)

Keep a gym bag in the car and steal a few minutes whenever you can and wherever you are. This can be easier if you belong to a gym that is convenient and offers extended hours and multiple locations, such as a Bali Health Club. (I personally have gone to Women's Workout World and my sister-in-law has gone to Curves-we love both!

Shake Things Up
If you already have a regular fitness routine, try adding some intensity or variety to stimulate new muscle groups and burn more calories and fat. For example:

Sign up for several sessions with a certified personal trainer who can create a custom workout plan so you can achieve your goals or share the cost by training with a friend or two. (This is great-my niece got in shape for her wedding with a personal trainer along with her fiance)

A workout journal might help it can serve as a motivational tool to see what you have already accomplished.

A pedometer for tracking your steps and motivating you to walk or run farther each day. Try looking for a very inexpensive one. My first pedometer was one from McDonald's. You know it came from a Happy Meal.

You can start New Year's Day, but the best time to start is now. It can be hard to take that first step, but it's an important one. Start by doing a few simple things to get moving, whether it's joining a fitness club or just going for a walk outside.

And if you lapse a little, don't be hard on yourself; just get back to your routine. It's never too late to restart a fitness routine.

Remember, once you've made up your mind and set a goal, don't let anything or anyone deter you from it! Good Luck and happy exercising!

Cheers!

Pumpkin Carving

A long, long time ago I used to carved pumpkins. OK, so it wasn't that long ago. It just sound good. But when I was younger and when we had carved pumpkins with our son with took out the insides and carved the the eyes, nose and mouth. Usually it had pretty much the same pattern. In later years, I got a little inventive and expanded to include a surprised pumpkin, besides just a scary or happy one.

As I've mentioned we've been involved with Drum Corps for years, so I was glad to see that DCI had a pumpkin carving contest both last year and this. I'll include a couple of their winners for your enjoyment so you can see how intricate pumpkin carving has become and I will be happy to provide a link to templates for some fun pumpkin carving:

http://familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts/season/feature/famf0900ohnopump/

This is the Disneyfamily.com page so there's tips at the bottom for more templates

Cheers!

Shoe Pavillion

Shoe Pavilion will be closing down their 64 stores on the west coast. I tried to find one near me, nope, as I've already mentioned these stores are on the west coast. So, I Googled Midwest Shoe Stores and came up with several pages of shoe stores. I guess I had to be more specific.

Anyway, all I know is one of my favorite stores is 'Rogan's. If I want to go for something a bit more inexpensive I'll check out 'Payless' or even shoes at 'TJ Maxx'.

I did the cutest heels at Marshall's. But as everyone knows in today's economy you have to shop around for those prices. The best thing is we have the Internet to help us.

I just saw K-Mart commercial for Layaway. Maybe they have some nice shoes? Unfortunately, I have to have something with arch support. Who knows? Couldn't hurt to check it out!

Happy shopping!

Cheers!

Garret Popcorn Shops

We had the pleasure of attending the musical 'Wicked' yesterday. I had bought the tickets several months ago so as the day drew near I told a few of my friends about our planned excursion. A couple of the girls at the office told me to make sure and stop at Garret Popcorn when I told them where the play was. "Oh, Garrets' is right next door!" I honestly had my doubts because I had thought that I given the wrong theater! But after the mile walk from the train station, we drew near to the Oriental Theatre the smell of popcorn wafted through the air. At first it was very faint, then as I looked up I looked into the window and there was a huge vat of popcorn being turned around-I supposed it was being coated with caramel. Either that or cheese. We walked to the theater, the next door down and checked when we could get in. Since we had an hour to kill we turned around and went back to the popcorn shop. Although the line was a little long, hubby and I waited only ten minutes and picked up 'The Mix'. We then shared it with my son and his girlfriend-who had come with. That bag was large for only a medium size. I still had to bring it home! There is still a little downstairs! Oh, it was very good! We did prefer the caramel corn over the cheese popcorn, but I've always had a sweet tooth and it's going to be the death of me!

They also have a great menu that is all popcorn, and you don't have to buy a tin, they have small to extra large bags with a cooler of drinks before you order-hence Popcorn Shop! If you're dieting though, be careful.

I would like to go back and try more when I get more time. Here is the link for nutrition.

http://www.garrettpopcorn.com/nutrition.asp

As I've said, you can find Garret's downtown, next to the Oriental Theatre, here is their exact

address:

Neighborhood: The Loop

4 E Madison St (between Holden Ct & State St)

Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 263-1108

Cheers!

Halloween costumes

I saw on Google trend where there were some couples costumes but when I sent back to collect more information it had disappeared.

So, here goes: to the best of my recollection some of the best couples costumes were:

Marge & Homer Simpson

A nut & a bolt

Bonnie & Clyde (I threw that in-told you I didn't remember them all)

Barack & Michelle Obama

John & Cindy McCain

Rum & Coke (Now that one was there-I remember it!)

Other ideas included going to the website for Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum and getting more ideas. Now there's a thought! Of course I'll provide the link. Have fun!

http://www.madametussauds.com/NewYork/

Cheers!

Monkey Bread

I found this recipe on the Internet and it looked oh so yummy!

You follow the directions and eat this with your hands!

INGREDIENTS
3 (12 ounce) packages refrigerated biscuit dough
1 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup margarine
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup raisins


DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease one 9 or 10 inch tube pan.
Mix white sugar and cinnamon in a plastic bag. Cut biscuits into quarters. Shake 6 to 8 biscuit pieces in the sugar cinnamon mix. Arrange pieces in the bottom of the prepared pan. Continue until all biscuits are coated and placed in pan. If using nuts and raisins, arrange them in and among the biscuit pieces as you go along.
In a small saucepan, melt the margarine with the brown sugar over medium heat. Boil for 1 minute. Pour over the biscuits.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 35 minutes. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a plate. Do not cut! The bread just pulls apart.

Monkey Bread, also called Hungarian coffee cake and bubbleloaf, is a sticky, gooey pastry served as a breakfast treat. (This is from Wikipedia-personally, I think you can eat it at any time!)

No one knows where the term "monkey bread" came from, but it's been suggested that the bread resembles the monkey puzzle tree.

Recipes for the towering bread first appeared in American women's magazines and community cookbooks in the 1950s. It is made with pieces of sweet yeast dough which are baked in a cake pan at high heat after first being individually covered in melted butter, cinnamon, sugar and chopped pecans.

It is traditionally served hot so that the baked segments can be easily torn away with the fingers and eaten by hand.

For more information on this recipe and tips visit, http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Monkey-Bread-I/Detail.aspx

My thanks to LuAnn Connolly for submitting a delish recipe!

Enjoy!

Pumpkin Seeds

It's that time of year again when we go out and carve pumpkins and get stuck with all the innards. So, last year I attempted baking the seeds to have pumpkin seeds to munch on at work. It was all guesswork and they didn't turn out that well...But this year I have an actual recipe! Let me share it with you!

First, remove the seeds from a pumpkin, leaving behind as much of the fiber as you can. Immediately place the seeds in a large bowl of water to avoid any fiber drying on the seeds.

Secondly, transfer the pumpkin seeds to a colander. Thoroughly rinse the pumpkin seeds under cold running water, rubbing the seeds between your fingers until the pulp and strings are washed off. Drain well.

Third, preheat the oven to 300°F. In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of the pumpkin seeds, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon salt; stir to coat well. Spread the seeds onto a baking sheet. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes or until lightly browned and crisp, stirring often to brown the seeds evenly. Cool to room temperature. To store, place in a tightly covered container (will keep for 1 week).

Makes: 3 cups

That was it, I didn't use vegetable oil. I would like to thank "Like Grandma Used To Make." To go to the Amazon. com website for more information on this cookbook Click here.

The Silo Restaurant

Last night we had the opportunity to go out-after saving up for a week and eating in. So, I picked up the phone and asked my son and his girlfriend if they would like to go with to The Silo Restaurant in Lake Bluff. I checked out their menu and found that although they specialize in pizza they also offered entrees from steak to pasta bowls. I got the small chicken teriyaki dinner, which came with a soup or salad, grilled veggies, a wild brown rice mixture and a loaf of bread which was warm when served! Hubby got the half slab of ribs and fries, along with clam chowder. He also had some of that yummy bread.

The kids-they're in their twenties-indulge me-ordered huge sandwiches which came with a mound of fries each. My son had the chicken teriyaki folder, while his girl had the chicken sandwich. They must have been good, they finished the lot!

In comparison to some other places I found the prices at The Silo to be very reasonable. Unless you were opting for the highest priced item on the menu-their specialty pizzas at $23.95 you for a 14 inch (large) you then went to $6.95 for a burger. And they have several different types! They menu was large and very appropriate for a dinner menu.

Overall the atmosphere is terrific with Chicago paraphenalia strewn about neatly and several TV's going that you can watch-or not, Our waitress was really friendly and we were seated immediately, even on a Friday night.

Please click here to check out their website.

Cheers!

Coupons!

I was never really into coupon cutting. When we first got married, I thought I'd do the wifely bit and go through the papers and make a list of what was needed for the household and cut a few coupons. Unfortunately, those were few and far between. In today's market of not only the huge paper some of us receive, but we can pick up at any Convenient Store, there is an Advertiser and a Coupon paper of some sort that inevitably seems to be floating around one of the major food stores. And if that's not enough, while we do our shopping we are being flagged by lovely blinking red lights waving us down with what? Another coupon.

So, my friends and dear readers, it is with great pleasure that I give you a link to what else-a page to more coupons! In this day and age, we need to save all the money we can!



Click here to find and print coupons.



You can also click here to read 'How to Cut Your Grocery Bill'

Mom's stew and more...

I knew what had happened with the Cubs-I’m not deaf, blind nor dumb, but to walk into work and be accosted by a couple of my coworkers was utterly ridiculous. They proceeded to harp on how badly the Cubs had lost and how wonderful the White Sox were doing. Sorry guys, but the Sox are not doing THAT entirely great. I have always tried to remain a Chicago fan, Neither a Cubs or Sox fan-although our household was mainly Cubs fans. So I did try to keep an open mind during the division playoffs. As I said in my last blog, I had mourned that loss of the Cubs and would look forward to next year. My only regret is that my parents are getting on in years and I don’t know how much longer they can hold out!
So, to all you really MEAN White Sox fans who are berating any Cubs fans-why don’t you stop it? I’ve got one guy at work who is emailing all the Cubs fans he knows and is making fun of the fact the Cubs lost! SO WHAT! There’s always next year, remember?

Anyway, I promised a recipe to chase the chill away and get ready for Bears season. Here’s my mom’s stew recipe. Hubby swears by it! Enjoy!

1 1/2 - 2 pds. beef stew meat

3-4 potatoes

2 stalks celery

1 onion

Brown meat for 1 hour after adding 2 beef bullion cubes and covering with water. Add cut up potatoes, celery, onion and cook another 1/2 hour while preparing gravy.

Gravy: 1/4 Cup water & 2 teaspoons cornstarch or flour and add to stew.

Makes enough for 4.

Hint: For an extra zip make sure you salt and pepper your stew OR add any Seasoned Salt. We used Tastefully Simple. (About 2 tablespoons)

Cheers!

NLDS

I believe that stands for National League Division Series. My blog will be short tonight. My Cubbies lost, so I'm in mourning-until the next game. The first game yet. I know it's a five game series, etc., etc., etc. But when you get your hopes up and you work with three White Sox fans this really hurts!!


So, good luck to the Dodgers-whatever...and hopefully I'll have better news in my next blog. I'll also be looking for some good recipes to post.

Remember our motto: Cubs fans never die, we just wait around for next season!

Cheers!

Beware Kiosks!

We were at Gurnee Mills last night to try and exchange a hooded sweatshirt my son had given me for my birthday. It's very sweet and everything, but I think I've outgrown the Beatles and would really prefer a CUBS hoodie.

Anyway, we didn't have much luck so as we were trudging our way out I was beset by a young gentleman from one of those little carts in the middle of the aisle that sell everything from cell phone covers to roasted nuts and everything in between. He was nice enough except when I tried to decline his offer of "Let me show you what I have!" he had already done his sample work and had the product in a bag, in my hand and the ticket ready to be go before I could say 'Jumpin' Jack Flash!' I then looked to hubby for help. If you can't ask your husband for help with a pushy salesman, who can you ask? But this guy was good! He then totally won hubby over! I'll call him Charlie. Charlie then proceeded to notice some redness on hubby's neck and brought out some cream which he said would remove it! Charlie then mentioned psoriasis possibly...I always thought it was from shaving, but you never know. The salesman then kept putting jars in our bag.

After all was said and done, we ended up with about 9 jars of product-about 7 of which I have no clue what to do with. One I do know it's supposed to make my hands and feet real soft. The total bill? Over $120.00. We also have 2 weeks to try this out. Yeah, right. How much you want to bet there will be no one home if we go back in two weeks. Does anyone remember that the stock market took a nose dive yesterday? I know it rallied today, but who knows what it will do in two weeks?

Alright, I'm ranting, but I should have know better and that was part of our Christmas money and I let some guy-Charlie-talk me out of it. MY BAD. Now, don't let anyone else do that! Just walk away-unless you're really interested.

Have a great day!

Cheers!

The Presidential Debates - Round I

I caught part of debates of Barack Obama and John McCain. (McCain's campaign have already released a Web video featuring footage of Obama agreeing with Senator McCain) Hey, if the man was right, he was right and that happened to be Obama's opinion too. And???

Senator McCain, who came into tonight's debate a bit frantic from the time he spent in Washington trying to help them get out the financial mess Wall Street had made, looked as relaxed, at home and stable, as we have seen him in any debate during this long election process. He wore an almost permanent smile, which, for the most part seemed natural as opposed the force grin plastered on his face during the primary debates, which had always bothered me before. He poked fun at his age several times, (and scares me with Palin waiting in the wings) jabbed Obama playfully yet effectively and seemed in command of the subject matter and the stage. At one point moderator Jim Lehrer said that the two candidates had spoken for almost the same amount of time, we were surprised; McCain seemed from our perspective to command more time. Obama had a simple goal in this debate: tie McCain to the policies of George W. Bush. Right from the beginning, Obama sought to link the economic policies responsible for the financial crisis to Bush and McCain; he noted at another time that although McCain as casting himself as a maverick, as he had throughout his entire campaign, he had voted with the current president 90 percent of the time. McCain had also voted with President Bush on the U.S. entry into Iraq and this was another subject debated upon in which Senator Obama stated several statistics and Senator McCain declared that he would bring our troops home victoriously.

With Bush's approval ratings consistently mired in the upper 20s or low 30s and with huge majorities of voters believing the country is on the wrong track, it's a smart strategy on paper. But, again, will the average voter become convinced that McCain and Bush are one in the same? Remember that the lasting image most voters have of McCain is as the guy who ran against Bush in 2000. I won't go into that one...

Anyway, I don't like running on because quite honestly I got bored. I listened to the candidates and watched their mannerisms. I wasn't all that thrilled with either one. I am impressed with John McCain 's experience and willing to do what is best for his country. Yet I am turned off by the fact that he voted alongside the same individual who has not helped us too much in the last eight years and his choice of running mate doesn't thrill me either. Barack Obama now, all I know is that he has a good head on his shoulders, seems to know what he's talking about, makes perfect sense, and picked a very good running mate. On the other hand, I don't believe he is a true native of this country. He really was raised in another country although born in Hawaii-I think that's correct. I know I'm going to get comments on this. If I'm wrong, please accept my apologies!!!

Remember to watch Round II & III

Cheers!

Financial Meltdown

I just came from choir practice where in our closing prayer I asked for the welfare of our country. The gal next to me whispered afterward, "I wouldn't listen to anything Mr. Obama has to say if I where you...he won't even go up to Washington." She wouldn't even give me the chance to give Senator Obama's 3 point bailout plan-which I love!

Whatever happened to having your own opinion? Not just having your own opinion, but having someone else respect it? I thought that's what the constitution was all about, and by the by isn't that why we fought the American Revolution???? It's not just for mom and apple pie, although those are good too, it's for our American way of life which includes free speech, free to do as we wish, which includes walking barefoot, the right to bear arms, smoke-if you care, and yes, the right to worship as we please.

So, you ask, why is this so short? Because my anger has been abated. I have spent the last hour on YouTube.com watching various videos. The last one was the Sara Palin interview with Charles Gibson. I couldn't believe someone could be so evasive! She's good. At being evasive, mind you.
Catch the video.

Cheers!

Dancing With The Stars! 2008

Although I missed the 3 hour premiere event-thank goodness-I did catch some of tonight's DWTS. I know I will miss tomorrow's night's show when once again another couple will be booted off. I have to admit, I voted. My favorite couple was Misty May-Treanor and her partner, Maksim Chmerkovskiy. After that everyone seems to blur. Although I have to admit I did enjoy Derek Hough and his partner, Brooke Burke.

Then again, Cody Linley and his dance partner Julianne Hough certainly showed the Stars contestants that they knew how to strut their stuff and once again tonight!
The 18-year-old Hannah Montana star impressed the judges and should be able to make the final stages of the competition.
His moves on the dancefloor were splendid for a celebrity and a young man in the first week. His footwork wasn't perfect but Julianne will be able to work on that during their rehearsals.
Judge Carrie Ann told the couple: "I'm just freaking out that both of you - your combined age - is younger than my age."
Cody is actually the youngest contestant in the history of Dancing with the Stars. I'm calling it pretty close to Derek Hough who I believe is only 22.
Cody has lots of famous supporters too.
He told E! News: "Miley (Cyrus) and a bunch of my friends are going to come and support me, so I'm really, really excited about that."
Cody refused to say whether Miley will be dancing on the show in the future, telling reporters: "I don't know. I have no idea. You'll have to ask Miley."

After voting I ended up seeing last night's contestant's voted off. Remember I didn't see last night so I didn't vote. Personally, I would have voted Cloris Leachman off, but then I would have missed her Mamba or whatever it was she was trying to do. I was simply in stitches!

I think the funniest part was when she said she had bribed Len, Carrie Ann and Bruno, ten dollars each to give her a good score and keep her on the show. The lady is a classic!

Here's to class!

Cheers!

Fruit Smoothies

I had the biggest taste for a fruit smoothie this evening. The best home made smoothie I've ever made was Jewel's Banana Smoothie Mix. Just throw in a banana or two, add some milk & chop up your ice-better chop up that ice first and blend! Yummy! Jewel carries the mix in the produce section. Of course, I've never looked at the ingredients or nothing because I figured I was offsetting it with all the good stuff I was adding!

So, what I did was go look up what I thought were the easiest and best looking and probably best tasting smoothies I could find,




Island Fruit Smoothie (Recipe Courtesy of Curtis Aikens) and the Food Network


1 small banana, peeled and cut into chunks

2 tablespoons coconut milk

2 tablespoons lime juice

1/4 cup orange juice

1/4 cup pineapple juice

1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated

3 ice cubes


In a blender, blend all ingredients until smooth.



Cheers!

CiCi's Pizza

I read on Google Trends where someone mentioned that a CiCi's Pizza had opened up nearby and they were wondering whether or not to try it out. I was just about to answer but it was not necessary, there were several replies already posted. Most were good, and of course most told the truth. You get what you pay for. I personally have been to the CiCi's on Butterfield Rd. in Downers Grove a couple of times. For the price, it's OK. There is quite a variety of pizza, from your good ol' plain cheese to a good deep dish with all the fixin's. They also have a salad bar, but watch out and make sure the lettuce appears fresh. It didn't look too good when I went last, and there wasn't that much of it. I'm surprised to say that-but I'm not the only one to do so. CiCi's saving grace is their breadsticks and their dessert pizzas. Do not pass up the breadsticks, at least TRY ONE! Do the same with the Cinnamon Rolls. They are so yummy!! When I was there, the cinnamon rolls used to be a cinnamon pizza, I guess they decided to just make them rolls, but they are still REALLY GOOD! Ah, progress...

Anyway, for more information on CiCi's and locations click here.

Cheers!