My Latte Life

What is happening? Is this Winter?

2012-01-12T13:00:00.000-08:00

Last year in New York we were pummeled with snow by 3 major back to back snow storms and this year it is January and not a flake on the ground. Although, we did have that random, unseasonably early October snow storm the scared everyone including the trees (which still had leaves on them so they were all broken all over the place... not good) and loss of power that led to me missing 2 days of work (I wasn't too disappointed). I guess I am just confused and mostly excited.

I love the snow. No, really, I do. I just don't like having to drudge through it everyday or shovel my car out or shovel at all, really. I mean, I get real tired of having the bottom of my pants tucked into boots or the "whoopsie, my pant legs fell out of my boots and now they are wet half way up my leg" anxiety. But, I would like to feel cozy. Snow is cozy. I am not sure why, but all I want to do is drink coffee, wine and hot cocoa all at the same time and sit in front of the fire place just thinking about how cozy I am in my jimmy jams and fuzzy slippers. Doesn't that sound delightful? Last week it was 60 degrees. Ok, I agree with you, that is ridiculous. But, I loved it and took full advantage of wearing a cute outfit that did not have to be hidden under my usual insanely adorable (but bulky) winter coat.

I would be alright with one more snowfall this "winter", but don't get ahead of yourself mother nature. I said ONE. A friend said to me last night, "you have New York skin now". I am pretty sure that is true seeing as I barely went outside when I was home in Alaska over Christmas and really wasn't jazzed about doing any outdoor activity. Alaska is in winter to the max right now and I am happy for those who love it, but I am happy I am not in the middle of it! Spring, is that you right around the corner?

Must see...

2011-09-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

I don't know how it took me so long to post about this! A while ago I saw Crazy Stupid Love. Being as how I did not have t.v. or internet at the time, I had no idea what this movie was about. Let me just tell you... WOW! I LOVED this movie so freaking much I cannot even handle it! I think Lis explained this movie the best, "I have never been more attracted to mens clothing." haha. It's true! Ryan Gosling is outrageously well dressed in the movie and just so suave, adorable and hilarious all at the same time! I like that it is not just a classic rom-com. It's a story of love, life and giving in to discovering parts of yourself you never knew existed. I will definitely be buying this the second it comes out!

Is It Really Fall?!?

2011-09-11T18:17:00.000-07:00

Wow, how is it already September? I mean, come on! I had such big plans for this summer: the Jersey Shore, DC trip, Rockland Lake and camping to name a few. Ugh... none of those were accomplished. The weeks just got away from me. I found myself continually saying "It's ok, I'll do it next weekend." That weekend turns into 2 weekends from now, yada yada, you never do it. Story of my life. One fantastic thing about New York? A long Fall. In Alaska, Fall literally lasts about 2 weeks and its nothing exciting or that pretty. Mainly yellow leaves, real cold and then all you have to look forward to is snow. Well, welcome to an East Coast Fall: red/orange/yellow leaves, crisp 70 degree weather, maybe a little 60s or 80s mixed in as well, several weeks long, no snow expected until November or December (Booya!), perfect hiking and camping weather and you've got the perfect Fall!!! I'm excited to not suffocate from humidity when I walk out of my house, but I really would have been happier going into Fall with a better tan...oh well. Here's to a crisp, glorious Fall filled with camping and lots of hiking!

Vino: My dear, dear friend...

2011-09-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

Wine is quite possibly one of the greatest pleasures of all time. I used to drink it mass amounts (probably a little too much) but I was in my early 20s when my drinking physlosphy was: I can handle anything. Needless to say, vino has made a comeback in a big way. I forgot what it was like to come home and pour a glass of wine, sit and relax, do what I do! For instance, I am drinking a glass of wine writing this post, obviously... I don't like white wine, it is too sweet. I love Cab Sauv, Pinot Noir and Malbec the most, but Black Box Merlot is glorious! My mom got me hooked on Black Box, not your average boxed wine I tell you! Just wanted to express my love of vino, now go get yourself a glass!!

Some fun tidbits...

2011-09-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

I mean, come on! How precious are the Foo Fighters?!?

Well, Vicky B. finally went and did it! She had herself a precious baby girl and I could not be more stoked for her. I mean seriously, how precious is that little girls fashion sense going to be? And now their family truly is going to be the most adorable/attractive family on the planet! Can't I just meet Vicky B. already?

What the beep happened to John Mayer? He dropped off the face of the Earth after he was "addicted to tweeting" and Jen Aniston dumped him scrubby bum. He looked heinous in the last pic I saw of him. John, you are a musical genius, get your act together!

Dear Lost, can't you come back to me?!

Kelly Cutrone inspires me like crazy. You know who she is, she's the crazy boss PR lady from The Hills. Well, I am reading her first book and I am obsessed with it! Talk about getting what you want in life and not taking no for an answer. Some of her life choices are wackadoo, but I she has a really good voice when reading the book and I now know by Whitney Port loves her so... haha

Foo Fighters, I better get to see you at Madison Square Garden! If you have not seen it yet, you better sit your ass down and watch VH1 Rock Doc:Foo Fighters. It is spectacular. Foo, I love you, you are way too precious!

That is my random pop culture ramble for the day. Until next time...

Back to civilization...

2011-09-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

When I lived in Alaska I was obsessed with my shows. I would dvr everything and anything. I loved tv. When I moved to New York, I did not want the added expense of internet and cable and I survived for 2 years without both, which is an accomplishment, and actually not very difficult. I got used to it. But, I definitely did miss boring nights with nothing else on but Cheaters... If I needed the internet I would venture to Starbucks and if I absolutely had to watch a show, I would just watch it on hulu. It worked for me.

Last night I came home to a wonderful surprise. Cable, internet and they threw in free dvr! Yahtzee!! I just really do not want to get sucked into tv again, but I am mostly excited about having football Sundays back! Now when people say, "Did you see ____ last night" I don't have to embarrassingly tell them "I don't have tv". It's the little things in life... Things are looking up, they truly are!

Free time? Wait, that exists?

2011-09-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

Looks like I will be back in the blogosphere more often:) I no longer have my second job and seem to find myself with some crazy free time. What does that mean? More blogging and getting my life back in order!! I have begun to totally re-organize my life. Literally, financially and emotionally. My apartment is under a huge organizational transformation and it feels wonderful!! One of my closets is totally organized and I have gotten rid of 4 garbage bags full of clothes, shoes, handbags and unused kitchen gadgets. Whoa, do I feel liberated!!!! I am really excited and feel that things are really going to just fall in place. I do not need to be worrying about anything else than what I cannot do in one day and things that do not effect me. It is time to get a grip on reality and live my life the way it should be lived.

My cross-country move from Alaska to New York has been difficult, a huge struggle, but overall, wonderful. I love my life here in New York and I love all the choices that surround me and the crazy insane amount of people everywhere always chasing something better. The energy is just unreal. Nothing will ever compare to my life in Alaska, and my life will never be as it was. My life changed forever when I moved and it was all for the better. I have learned so much about myself and other people and the effect that things and people have on my life. The power of friendship and love is one great beast:)

Until I find another second job, if I so desire... here's to dominating my free time with awesomely productive and fun things!

iPhone, when did you take over my life?

2011-08-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

I did it... I broke down and got the iPhone about a month ago, but I didn't even want to! My LG Vue was slowly breaking and I was due for an upgrade and the iPhone was the only logical choice here. I was thinking the iPhone 4, but did not want to spend the money and was really only considering it because of the "self pic" feature, as we all know I LOVE self pics! But, I stuck to the iPhone 3 something rather for $50 and I am golden! And of course immediately bought a leopard print cover:) I always told myself I would never get an iPhone because that was "too much going on in the palm of my hand". Well, I was right! Too many addictive things going on in this phone, that I am constantly checking my FB and the weather, checking out music, taking pics with instagram and hipstamatic, Living Social, writing this blog post, you name it!! This phone actually makes me want to spend MORE money with all the things I find playing around when I am bored. That is NOT a good thing!

I do not have Internet at my apartment, so this phone rules my world! Thank you iPhone for being a huge distraction in my life and also being really helpful:)

Come on!

2011-04-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

I have soooo much to blog about a ton of half-written blog posts and I just cannot get motivated to finish them! COME ON!!! Ok, that was nice, I think I'm ready now:)

Just Call Me Susie Homemaker...

2011-03-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finally doing it... Domesticating myself! I bought a crock-pot, I've been cooking alot, I have turned into a real homebody, I want to start to sew and re-learn knitting. I am pretty excited about all of these things and I'm feeling really motivated and encouraged:) My family basically thinks I am retarded in the domestic department, and I will admit I kind of am. I am not the best cook in the world, but I think that is only because I don't have that great of an imagination when it comes to cooking, and it is hard to get motivated to cook an involved meal for 1. I will tell you one thing, I am real good at cooking Mexican food:) haha. I am a nacho connoisseur and could eat them every day of my life. Does that count as cooking?!

I am not big on baking either, but I can make a mean Zucchini bread. Maybe I should get some tips from my sister Hillary who is a baking maniac and whip up something fantastic! Wow, when I talk about making all of these things, I get a little nervous! But, I am totally up for the challenge and to learn new things and hobbies! Who knows, maybe be I will totally dominate ?! One can dream, right?

I need all the encouragement I can get! Here's to becoming a domestic goddess!!!

Let's Pretend for a Minute...

2011-03-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

Disney Movies...Creepy or awesome? Well, most are creepy and downright scary, but there are a select few that are magical, such as Robin Hood (ultimate fave!), Fox and the Hound and Beauty and the Beast. Let's discuss the scary ones: Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Fantasia (ok, that movie is just a joke how scary it is). These are kids movies, right? Not so sure.

I got a text from my sister Hillary a few months ago "I couldn't get Cinderella, it's in the vault" My response: "Vault?! Like the creepy Disney vault?" That's the one! We were discussing what princessy things were were getting our niece Jane for her third birthday. Jane loves Disney princesses right now and, strangely, is not scared of Beauty and the Beast?!?! Back to the vault...I imagine it being the scariest place on Earth. This is NOT a theoretical vault, this bitch is real! Imagine all the movies they made but noone ever saw...As much as I love Disneyland and some Disney movies...it is creepster town. And I really do not think it appropriate to bring some movies out of the vault every 5 years and charge $26 for them. Not that I am in the habit of buying Disney movies, but that just seems ridic to spend that on a cartoon, or any movie, really. Oh well...

Disney Vault...I am not impressed and you scare me.

I Love You Beautiful Mother Dear...

2011-03-07T13:03:00.000-08:00

My mom came to visit me in New York for 10 days the end of Jan./Beg. of Feb. I have not seen her since July and that was waaaay too long! She was only with me in Nyack for a total of 2.5 days, but thankfully, I was able to take some time off of work and go upstate with her for a 4 day weekend with my G-parents:) I enjoyed every minute of our time together and needless to say... I miss her more than I ever thought possible. Oh great, I just started to cry. When I dropped her off at JFK Airport to head back to AK, my heart broke and I sat in my car for 15 minutes literally balling my eyes out. I am surprised I stayed on the road on my way home, I was a basket case.

My mom drove me from my first out-of-state living adventure in Minneapolis to Nyack in September 2009 and she fell in love with Nyack and really liked NYC, which I think was a surprise to both of us. We were not able to spend alot of time in the city this trip, but next time she visits, I have big plans! But, we were still able to do alot and get some much needed mom-daughter time in:) We spent a day in Nyack shopping and walking around to all the boutiques, she met all of my co-workers at the lawfirm and at Nordstrom (and my East-Coast mom, Marion!!), went into the city to see our friend James and his showroom and of course, my mom could not leave without cleaning my apartment! I just adore her!

The most common phrase said when I introduced my mom to people, "You two look so much alike". I'll take it:) My mom is so wonderful. My mom really brings our family together, either with amazing meals, or beegaritas (yum-o!!) and just being an awesome, supportive, kicking ass and taking names Mom/Grandma. I am alot like her, we don't take alot of crap, so you better look out, haha! My mom has always been tough love and that is why I think my sisters and brother and I are so strong and the people we are today.

After my mom I said to myself, "what have I done? Why do I live so far away from my family?!" But I quickly got a grip and remembered that moving to NY was the best decision I ever made and without the support of my mom and the rest of my family, I would not be able to survive here. I LOVE my life in NY! I just wish I had unlimited air miles to go to AK about 5 times a year:( One can dream, right? My mom now says she wants to visit NY a couple times a year to see me and my grandparents and I am TOTALLY ok with that:) Thanks mom, for visiting me in NY and making my life so much better:)

Holiday Season...Done.

2011-01-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

Most adorable couple in front of the Bergdorf Goodman windows.

Eugene and I and the TREE!

A Little holiday fun with Becca and Alakai.

Gram and Gramp!!

New Headband from Kim:) Love it!

Walt, Sharlee, Emily and Sadie.

Eugene and I at my G-parents.

Why am I soooo lame at updated my blog lately!?! Well, it could be a myriad of reasons; One being that I have been working like a maniac the past 2 months. I work a full time job at the law firm, then work about 3 nights a week and every Saturday at Nordstrom. Needless to say, I am a walking zombie most of the time, but I think I have learned to thrive on little sleep. I just do what I have to do and work my ass off, that is the story of my life. Second might be that I have been lazy. I feel overwhelmed at how much I have to write about! Grip gotten...let's do this!

The holidays came and went and they were delightful! I spent Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with my Grandparents upstate and my boyfriend, Eugene, of about 8 months met them for the first time and he was a hit:) I will get back to Eugene later... My grandparents mean sooo much to me. I wish I could just live with them, they are so fantastic! Eugene and I then headed up to Vermont to spend the rest of the holiday weekend with my Uncle Walt and Aunt Sharlee and their girls. I spent Christmas with them last year and this was no different! Wonderful food, tons of booze, old movies and a fantastic time with my amazing family and Eugene!!

We then got stuck in the "Blizzard on 2010" as it was called in NYC. We decided not to chance it and stayed at my G-parents on Sunday night to wake up to a foot of snow! Can you say snow day?! After shoveling our cars out and helping with the paths, we were on our way back to the city. It was such a fantastic Christmas weekend. It is always hard being away from my family for any event or holiday, but at least I am with people that I love and people that love me and it I feel very fortunate for that:)

I said last Christmas and will say it again. Christmas in NYC is the most magical thing on Earth! I am sharing some pics of Christmastime in the city and hope you enjoy them. That handsome black man is my boyfriend Eugene who adores me and I adore him:) Life is beautiful!

Snowy/Salty Roads

2011-01-22T10:10:00.000-08:00

If you have not heard on the news lately, the East Coast has been dominated by snow lately and let me just say... enough already. I know I am from Alaska and I am supposed to love the snow, but let me clarify something. I do love the snow, but I don't like walking in it everywhere I go. This was my problem in Alaska. I hate having to trudge through snow, but I am totally fine driving to it, or it even being in my yard and mountains. And I love skiing. There are a few differences with Alaska and New York winters. Alaska is dry NY is humid. Therefore, when it is 20 degrees here, it often feels like zero degrees. It is a cold that I cannot even describe except to say it is cold to the bone! It is completely different than AK. And the wind comes off the Hudson and through the valley and is absolutely ridiculous. Winter in the city it crazy cold! The wind just whips through the buildings and your face almost falls off.

Another difference: Salt v. gravel. I personally hate salt on the roads. I mean really, do I need the bottom of my work pants all covered in a white salt stain? NO. Do I need my car to be covered in a massive film of salt making it look like a cocaine wagon? NO. Do I need my already rust prone Suby to rust out because I cannot keep washing the salt off my car every two days? Def. NO! Stupid. In Alaska they used sand/gravel and it did its job. Tires grip, don't have stained pants, yada yada. Problem with gravel? My windshield was DOMINATED on a regular basis. And when I say dominated, I mean to the point where my NY friends were seriously afraid that my windshield would implode on me while driving. haha. Well, that did not happen because I got pulled over and this adorable cop made me fix it:)

Let me make something really clear. Snow plowers in NY are the WORST! I am beginning to think that I could do a better job. Every plow driver should probably go to Alaska to be trained. The time it takes to clear snow and the serious lack of skill to get the snow actually OUT of the road is ridiculous. This has been a big problem in NYC and in Nyack. Nyack is alot like the city, in that everything is really close together, right on the Hudson and there is nowhere to put the snow, so they kind of just push it around. Ridic. My driveway has not been plowed since Christmas. Nice, really nice. Guess this is just something I am going to have to get used to.

My Aunt Sharlee said to me a couple weeks ago when I was telling her that I had virtually no snow gear here, it was all in Alaska, "We have winter on the East Coast too!" Boy, do we ever! But, at least it does not last 6 months and we have real hot summers! I can live with that:) Now it is supposed to snow again on Tuesday for the 4th time in 3 weeks. Awesome.

I'm embarassed...

2011-01-17T13:15:00.001-08:00

Well, the deed is done. I purchased a Jessica Simpson handbag on Saturday. Needless to say, it was an embarrassing moment in my life. There are some celebrity related situations which I refuse to engage in. The ultimate: Liking Angelina Jolie...that will never happen. 2) Buying ANYTHING from Jessica Simpson's fashion line. And if purchased on accident, return it. This is not because I think it is a horrible line, I just think she is horrible. But, I found this amazing handbag that is so adorbs, so me, and functional. BOOYA!! Against my better judgment, I bought the bag...Many people have informed me that in her shoe line is incredible. I refuse to believe that and if see a cute shoe with her name on the insole, I promptly put the shoe down as quickly as I picked it up. I draw the line at handbags, my foot is down...

B-Star, I Fracking Love You!!

2011-01-17T12:54:00.000-08:00

If I ever thought I was nerdy before, this really seals the deal! Balltlestar Gallactica, you rule my world! I have fallen in love with this little gem of science fiction. There are so many amazing things about this show, I don't even know where to start! First of all, this is a Canadian show and, if you did not already know, I LOVE Canada...alot. Second, the special effects are quite amazing, especially considering it is only a t.v. show. Third, there are some hotties with naughty bodies, and let's get real, who doesn't like a man in uniform kicking Cylon ass? Fourth, Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell are spectacular actors and I am obsessed with them! I must give a shout out to my old friend, David Harper, for making me reluctantly start to watch this show on dvd before I moved from Alaska. I watched the first season and loved it, then forgot about it for a year and a half and BAM, my Uncle Walt started watching it and I got hooked...again. We are on Season 3 and it is blowing my franking mind!!

There are a few small, yet awesome, things about this show. I noticed right away that any square or rectangular item (ie. paper, picture frames) no longer have corners. NOTHING has corners!! Are they kidding me?! Also, pretty much the only swear word on the show is "frack". Can you say hilarious ! Walt and I still think it is hilarious, and that is because we are real nerdy... Also, this show has very religious undertones. They pray to Gods, but their enemies (the Cylons) pray to God, it is very interesting watching all of this unfold and them always arguing over what they believe in and what is true. Everything the Cylons are doing is because they believe it is God's will... all very interesting between the humans and Cylons.

In a nut shell...The Cylons (robots) were created by humans, then they turned against their creators and destroyed the human race, all but about 45,000 people. So, Cpt. Adama is leading all of these people through space in search of Earth! Of course they encounter the stupid Cylons all the time and have some kick ass battles. New Cylons are revealed every so often and they are always someone "human" that no one ever thought would be a Cylon. It is nutso!! Basically, you just need to watch this show. Especially if you love Star Trek: The Next Generation as much as I do! So Say We All...

P.S. Did I mention that I am a nerdy nerd?

Everyone has their thing...

2010-10-21T09:57:00.001-07:00

I have been really stressed out lately with several things that are going on in my life and I tend to take other people's stress on as well and that just makes it out of control. I need to realize that I can't be everything to everyone all the time. I am only one person and it is okay to say no every once and awhile. I have been talking to alot of co-workers/friends at work lately and everyone seems to be going through something right now. Whether big or small, everyone has there thing that turns their world upside down, even if only for a minute. I have quickly realized that the more I complain the more I am taking away from actually dealing with what is going on in my life to cause the stress and realize that I am not alone, everyone is going through something as well and might be feeling the same way I do. Life is a crazy roller coaster of emotions and everyone has their thing...all I can do is deal with my thing the best way I know how and ask for help when I need it. Ugh, I think all of this comes from me working too much. I need to get a grip!

Dear Car...Can't you learn how to clean yourself?

2010-10-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

My lovely Subaru, that I really need to take better care of...

Ok, there are a few things I really drag my feet doing and one of the big ones is cleaning my car. This may come as a shock to you, but I have not washed my car since I moved to NY, and when I say wash, I mean drive it through a car wash (which is one of my biggest fears) or even throw a splash of water on it... Is this laziness? Probably...get over it. The inside of my car is a whole different story. The only way to describe it is a shit show. I basically have enough outfits (including shoes and jackets) to last me for a week or any emergency, a tent (you know, just in case I need to set it up in the middle of Central Park for some reason), one random flip flop, one random mitten, a couple blankets, numerous cds, and don't forget my shopping bags that I refuse to take into my apartment after I go shopping. This has got to stop. Basically my only motivation for cleaning out my car is when I go visit someone and need to haul stuff (Lis, Gram and Gramp, etc.) News Flash: when you car is dirty, no one can ride with you and frankly, it's disgusting. Granted, I really don't have any passengers with me, ever, except 1, but that is still no excuse. I mean, the dust on my dash has been accumulating since 1983, get real! My goal this weekend? Clean my car. That is it, I have to put my foot down sometime and that time is now! Happy cleaning to me!

Dream.Come.True

2010-06-28T17:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, so there are a few things in life that I am OBSESSED with. Let's get real, I am obsessed with everything! But, there are a few things more than others. For instance: Victoria Beckham, Just Timberlake, Sassy, Hugh Jackman, NYC, and Chelsea Handler. Well, one of my dreams came true a couple months ago and here is the story...

Chelsea Handler is a genius. I am sure many of you think she is crude, ridiculous and just straight vulgar. Yes, yes, and yes. This is why I LOVE her. She is the definition of the phrase she coined, a "HOT MESS", which coincidentally is one of my favorite phrases and now my 2 year old niece is apparently calling my sister a hot mess. I an am awesome aunt, what can I say... Anywayyyy, Chelsea has 3 books out and they are all EPIC! Her latest book, Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang is freaking amazing and hilarious just like her other two, but with this one she decided to do a stand-up tour in support of her book. Well, thank the Lord I live near NYC and can see amazing things like this that come into town. I took Becca with me for her birthday. Hilarious enough, our seats were on the third floor of Radio City Music Hall (which rules my world by the way). So, we walk in the lobby and see the massive stair case that seems to be never ending and Becca looks at me (8 months preggers) and says "Hannah, you have got to be F-ing kidding" "Fair enough" I said and we caught the next elevator. We parked our asses and proceeded to laugh for the next hour and a half straight! She is straight genius! Comedian Josh Wolf opened for her and blew my mind with his hilarity. I knew he was funny because he is always on her round table on Chelsea Lately, (and hot...) but, wow, the night surpassed anything I could have hoped for, and Becca and I got to have one last ladies night before the alien popped out! Oh Chelsea...I adore you!!

Absense Makes the Heart Grow Fonder??

2010-06-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Heyo!!! I have been informed by multiple people that I need to get a grip and update my blog. Well friends, I agree with you. I have missed it!!! I don't even know where to begin, but I will try and do a major wrap up and throw in some random pics to give you a lil taste of my life in NYC since I last posted, which was apparently in January...whoa.

Well, first of all let me just say, again, how much I am IN LOVE with New York City!! I still cannot believe that I live here and the happiest I have ever been. Best decision I ever made, without a doubt. The town I live in, Nyack, is the most spectacular place to be in the summer (besides sunny days in Alaska). It is a bikers paradise and so freaking adorable! My weekend ritual, eating a breakfast burrito on the outdoor sidewalk seating at Harry's Burritos and maybe a lil walk two blocks down to the Hudson River. Nyack, you are the most precious town to ever exist and I am completely in love with you!! Best of both worlds, 20 minutes from NYC, but still able to hike and enjoy the outdoors. Oh, and it has been called "Mini Hollywood" seeing as how a bagillion celebs live in town or in the surrounding towns, which is fun as I am obsessed with celebs. I could obviously go on and on about it Nyack, but I will spare you, for now...

Well, I FINALLY have a legal job. I am working as a paralegal (my career for the past 10 years --wait, 10 YEARS??? crazytown!) for an amazingly awesome lawfirm about 15 minutes away from my house, which rules my world. I am sooooo glad to be back doing what I love! I really have to give a shout out to Mr. Cook who gave me the freedom and knowledge to be the paralegal I am today, he is amazing and I am eternally grateful to him!!! I am still also working at Nordstrom 2 days a week. I work 6 days a week, only having Sundays off. Needless to say, I am constantly exhausted, yet invigorated. I thrive on no sleep and stress, I am a weirdo.

Visitors!!!! Well, my spectacular friend Kim came to visit in February from Portland (she also went to Italy with me last year) and we had a great time, minus the 2 foot snow storm that I was NOT expecting. Dear New York, since when do you have Alaska style snow storms?!?! Oh well, the good thing is the snow only sticks around for like a week. I'll take it! It was so great seeing Kim!! For Easter Becca, Amal and I went to Connecticut to be with another amazing AK friend, Christine and her family. Her old roomie is now living in Brooklyn and was there too. Basically it was "My Big Fat Greek Pascha" and was EPIC! One of my besties, Barb (childhood friend from Alaska) came to visit Becca, Amal and I from North Carolina for Memorial Day Weekend. We played tourists for the weekend and it was AWESOME!! Staten Island Ferry, Times Square, Central Park, the MET, Ethiopian Food, pizza, bagels, street fairs, yada yada. It was such a fantastic weekend and great to have the old Alaska gang back together! I think we all seriously needed a weekend to remind us of home and how much we all love/miss eachother!

Backing up a little bit, a little over a year ago, I met some amazing brothers in Anchorage. Our Crew was at Humpys and spotted them with luggage and next thing you know, they are partying with us and stay the night. Well, they were stuck in Anchorage because of the volcano and we were more than happy to have them along. Well, I stayed in touch with them (Ben and Dan) and met up with Ben in April for the most EPIC bus crawl of all time. NYC hop-on hop-off tour bus pub crawling our hearts out. Soooooooo fun!! Ben is spectacular and I hope we can hang out (and with Dan too!!) much much more since I am living here now!! Oh, and we saw Jason Schwartzman in SoHo, where I proceeded to almost pee my pants!

Well, that is the highlights, but I will do mini posts too. I promise, I will do much better in keeping up on here!!! I really did miss it. Writing this right now, I just want to keep writing until my fingers fall off!

Just Because...

2010-01-12T09:39:00.000-08:00

Just some of my well known faves, looking amazing, over the past month. Let's be honest, Hugh is obviously blowing that kiss to me, and hello Mr. Tan!! ... Vicky B., you are WAY too fierce to handle!!!

Apparently, I LOVE parades...

2010-01-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

The madness at the Yankee Parade

Lis and Nate all decked out in their Yankee gear!

Amal, walking as as Vet in the Vet's Day Parade

The Ground Zero Flag

Macys Parade!!

Jimmy Fallon talking to ?uestlove!

Amy, Becca and I, and Hello Kitty, of course.

My fave float! The Big Apple!!

Santa!!

End of the Macy's Parade, with all of the other balloons in the distance.

Since I have been living in NY for the last four months, I have gone to three major parades in NYC. Seriously? Not to mention Nyack (the town I live in aka the cutest town on the planet) has a parade about every 2 weeks, awesome.

The first was the Yankee Parade in November. Just in case you have been living under a rock, the Yankees won the World Series. Lis, Nate and I went to the parade about an hour before it started, assuming we could get a good spot and see all the hot Yankees. Not so easy. We were basically walking through the streets of NYC along with a million other Yankees fans, just following the chanting crowds. It was quite an amazing experienced. I have never seen so many people soooooo jazzed about anything! Except for me being jazzed about Hugh, Vicky B., and Sassy...just saying. We did not get to see any Yankees up close, but it was a shitshow of awesomeness. Also very random, we ran into Amy amongst 1 million people. Welcome to New York my friends, welcome to New York.

Next was the amazing, emotional Veteran's Day Parade. I took the day off work to go see Amal walk in the parade as a Vet. It was spectacular! Tony Curtis was the Grand Marshall and there were Mounties!! I love Canada!!! (Not as much as USA, obvs). It was soooo amazing seeing all the Vets watching and stopping other Vets in the street to shake their hand and chat. It was very emotional and really gave me great sense of Patriotism! I am so proud of my Dad, Amal, Nate and all of the other Vet's out there doing what they do. Thank you, and I love you!

Last, but certainly not least, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Yeah, I just said that. Amy, Becca and I were there there, in person, super close, having a spas attack!! It was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen in my life. It was so surreal being there when we always watch it on tv. The balloons were amazing and all of the celebs made me go crazy! I love celebrities!! So, you can only imagine how amped I was to see so many! Carly Simon, Cindy Lauper, The Roots and Jimmy Fallon, Ziggy Marley, EJ and Hope from Days of Our Live (hahahaha), Miss America, Andrea Bocelli, and about 20 others, that I cannot remember at the moment. It was amazing! Believe it or not, it was easier to walk around and find a spot at this parade than the crazy, insane Yankee Parade.

I guess I should now consider myself a Parade connoisseur... Enjoy the Pics!!

This Christmas...

2009-12-23T09:20:00.001-08:00

So, this is my first Christmas away from my immediate family. What am I going to do with myself?!?! Well, for one thing, I am not really feeling in the Christmas spirit. I am not sure if that is because I am working like a maniac at Nordstrom selling everyone their Christmas gifts for other people, or because I am not with my family and their amazingly decorated houses. I think part of it is that I am just getting older. It is kind of like birthdays as you get older...not as great as when you were little. But, I will say Christmas is so great since my sisters have had kids. That is the best part, watching them open their gifts!!

FYI, Nyack and NYC are the most magical places at Christmastime. I cannot even handle how much I love where I live. Throw Christmas in there and it is glorious!! The tree and ice rink at Rockefeller Center, check. Hot Chocolate and walking around the city, check. Looking at department store Christmas window displays, check. Being overly excited to be living in NYC at Christmastime, check, check, and CHECK!

I will be spending Christmas Eve with my G-parents in upstate NY, then heading to my Uncle Walt and Aunt Sharlee's (and Sadie and Emily) for Christmas and the rest of the weekend!! You can be sure there will be lots of laughs, food and booze happening. I CANNOT WAIT!!! (I will be posting pics of all of my NYC and VT Christmas adventures, don't you worry!)

Here's wishing you a Holly Jolly Christmas!!!!

Cable TV, Microwave...Who Needs 'Em?

2009-11-19T13:45:00.000-08:00

I have lived in NYC for 3 months now with my cousin Lis and we have lived without two (previously) very important items...Cable tv and a microwave. I never thought I would revert to the day without cable tv. As I have previously stated, I am addicted to television, especially my dvr. But, the lack of cable has been much easier than I thought. We basically just watch a ton of Arrested Development and other shows on dvd, and watch the other shows online. Yes, it is annoying, seeing as how we don't have the internet and have to steal it from our neighbors, but hopefully that will soon change. In the meantime, I am forced to pay for the internet at Starbucks or go to my fave cafe, Amazon, or the laundromat (which is where I am writing this, fyi). It has proven difficult, but I am actually surviving without cable. Who would have thought?

The microwave might just be one of the greatest inventions of all time. It was basically my best friend when living on my own. Well, we don't have one. This has led to me having to change what I eat, or just not eat at all because I am too lazy to actually cook something, haha. Don't get me wrong, I know how to cook, but get real irritated only cooking for myself. Microwaves are not expensive nowadays, we just have not seen the use for one at this point. We have survived this far, so I think we will be ok. Ah, how my life has changed...

Wait a Minute...Do I like Vampires?

2009-10-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

Ok, I never wanted to join the group of Vampire loving crazytown peeps, but alas, I think it may be possible that I am now included in that group. I have never seen or read Twilight, but I hear that I will become obsessed with it, hence why I am a little apprehensive to watch or read it. I am easily obsessed with things, and I am not really sure I want to be obsessed with high school vampire love, but we shall see. I will tell you this much, I am obsessed with True Blood. It is sooooo scandalous, violent, and super crazy, but I love it. One of the many reasons why I love it: Alexander Skarsgard. Swedish, tall, blond, hot.

Let me be clear about something. I am terrified of vampires. I used to watch the movie Buffy the Vampire Slayer when I was little and would be so scared that when I went to bed I thought a vampire would levitate to my second floor bedroom window and scare the bejezuz out of me. I would proceed to sleep with my blanket up to my ears. "Up to your ears?" Yes, I am crazy. I had this thing when I was little, if my ears were covered I could not see anything and nothing could see me. The same was true if I closed one of my eyes while laying on my side in my bed, noone could see me. Naturally, because I could not see them. We have already established that I am crazy (love of Sassy, aliens in cell phones...yada yada) so no need to discuss this further.

I am not going to suggest that you watch True Blood. I do not want to be any part of you becoming obsessed with vampires or the craziness that is True Blood. If you are intrigued and want to see it, do it...but don’t say I did not warn you.

Broadway...Is This a Joke?!?!

2009-10-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hugh and Daniel. No words.

Ok world, you are basically beeping with me right now! Bond and Wolverine on Broadway together?!?! I DIE! We all know how I feel about Hugh. And let's be clear, he is always my number 1. But, I am addicted to 007 movies. Next to Roger Moore, Daniel Craig is my favorite Bond! He is so beeping suave and bad ass I cannot even handle it. Too much hotness to go around! Just to clarify, I am NOT a fan of Daniel's stache. No thank you. You can bet your ass that I am going to try my hardest to get tickets to this show. I will most likely pass out while watching...just saying.

I Saw Sassy!!!

2009-09-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

The first sighting...RV Park

At this point, I was freaking out about being in Sassy territory.

Oh hey there, Sassy. Who are you spying on?

Sassy is very helpful.

Sassy on the side of the the gas station...He is EVERYWHERE in this town!!!

There was no question that I was giving Sassy a huge hug that day...Hello!!! It's Sassy!!!!

Bigfoot museum, aka, where I lost it! I bought a little too much Sassy stuff.

Sassy lives!! While driving from Crater Lake, OR to the California coast on my roadtrip with my dad and brother Ben, we had a day that became known as "Sassy Day". Needless to say, it was one of the best days of my life. We were just minding our business driving along Highway 299, when I see a sign that reads "Bigfoot Campground." I almost peed my pants. I am so freaking excited at this point, that my dad asked me if we want to turn around and take a picture. Is that even a question?!?! Pull a u-turn! Done and done. Several miles more down the road we see a giant, I mean GIANT Sassy statue on the side of the road. We did not really even notice it until we passed it, so not pic there. Next we saw that "Bigfoot Burger" sign. At this point we were beginning to realize we were in Sassyville.

Then, what was about to happen was totally unexpected and glorious! We entered into Willow Creek. Sassy was EVERYWHERE. Helping the locals with their yard work and building projects, peeking through windows, hanging out at the gas station. You think I am joking? See the pictures! I HAD to give Sassy a hug. Come to find out later, that town is the Sassy capitol of the world. Not kidding. Then what do we find a few more miles down the road? A Sassy gift shop, obviously! It was amazing!! I wanted to buy everything in there. So I did. Ben and I now have mini Sassy statues and I have a t-shirt. I also found out that there is a man dressed up as Sassy that hangs out at the gift shop, unfortunately we did not get to see him, but the guy told me that the man who made that suit for them made the Chewbacca suit. Kick ass! This day was getting better and better by the minute!

We ended our seemingly perfect day by checking into our hotel in Fort Bragg on the CA coast and turned on Monster Quest. Of course, it was the one about Sassy. I could barely contain my excitement/surprise at how awesome this day had turned out! Best day of my life!!!! The next day, we got to go to the Bigfoot Museum in Felton, CA ... Awesome! Through all of this, my dad was awesome! He knows how obsessed I am with Sassy and just let me do what I had to do. I find it hilarious that my family is now all about Sassy. My dad even suggested I start a side business venture involving Sassy. The idea is GLORIOUS!! But, I am not going to tell you, for fear you will steal our idea...

You're from Alaska?

2009-09-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

While in Minnesota, I have come to realize that being from Alaska can be real awesome and real annoying. A couple weeks ago, I was at the gas station and this is the conversation that transpired:

Her: "I like your necklace, but I need to see your id"
Me: : "Thanks! Ok, here you go"
Her: Upon examining my id: "GO BACK TO ALASKA!!"
Me: "Uhh..."
Her: "Why are you here?"
Me, in an effort to speed up this real awkward convo: "I moved here"
Her: "Huh, what's it like up there"
Me: "Gorgeous"
Her: "Yeah, I would like to go up there, but only for a couple days and come back HOME."
Me: "Ok, well, thanks, bye"

Strangely, she was extremely defensive of Minnesota and seemed to be upset that I even had the nerve to move here. My mind was blown! Really, I mean REALLY?!?! You are going to be upset at me? You don't even know what Alaska is like and why should you care. That was probably the most outrageous response I have received for my Alaska id.

It gets better... At the Twins game a few days later, I was ordering a Dome Dog and my cashier was a black man. He looked at my id and said: Alaska! (as per usual). He was staring for awhile so I said: "Top right corner" (for my dob) he said: "I see it, I am just in awe." At this point I was like, in awe with me? ooooh snap! Then he said to me: "There aren't any black people up there, are there?" me: "Yes!" him: "What like 4? me: "Um, no, not 4!" then he proceeded to tell 3 other cashiers, that there ARE black people in AK and they all need to go there. I was DYING!!!! best AK drivers license encounters yet! He was super sweet and hilarious!!!

Leaving...Again

2009-08-07T16:40:00.000-07:00

Me in Times Square, Jan. 2008

Well, after 40 days working back in Alaska, I am heading back to the lower 48!!! I am really excited to get back to my life down there. I realized something being back here: I am not supposed to be here at this point in my life. I have never felt so liberated!! I instantly felt this as soon as I stepped off the plane in Anchorage. At that moment, I felt extreme excitement. I knew then that I had made the right decision in leaving Alaska. This will always be my home, but it is not my path to be here right now.

After a month on the road (I will be posting about that later), I arrived in Minneapolis on June 16. At that point I was still uncertain if I would be staying there, or moving on to New York City. I interviewed for a job in New York in June and do not know if I got the job yet or not. But, I decided that either way, it would be an amazing opportunity to move to NYC! When else would I really be able to do it? I am not committed anywhere right now, so why not?! I am not too concerned with finding a paralegal job (if this other job one does not pan out), there are about a million law firms in NY. I have been looking into it, and it looks really promising!!

I am headed back to MN next Wednesday. I will be there for about 2 weeks, then drive to Spokane to see Whitney and then on to Montana for Colver and Lorna's wedding!!!! Then, back to MN to pick up any remaining crap of mine, say my goodbyes, and head to NYC to live with my cousin Lis!!!!!!! I have loved being in Minneapolis with my fantastically amazing friends, Kevin and Lacey (aka roomies). I know that I love Minneapolis soooo much and will probably end up living there one day, but for now, New York is where I feel I need to be. I am so stoked about this decision!!

Look out New York, an Alaskan chick is about to dominate you!!!

These Boots Were Made for Walking...

2009-07-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

My friend Steph and I went on a mega girls day shopping adventure yesterday. It was much needed after an insanely long week at trial (for my job). Ooooh Lordy did we shop! We first hit up Cosette and Lulu e Bebe, which are two fantastic boutiques at the corner of Lake Otis and Tudor. They are both owned by Lulu and are simply fantastic! I started frequenting it right after it opened and am totes addicted. It is a mix of Domino magazine, Anthropologie, and Urban Outfitters. I am not joking. If you like any of those, Cosette is the place to check out. We chatted with Lulu for a bit and bought some goodies. This being Steph's first time there, she is now addicted.

Then, onto the Nordy's Anniversary Sale. Oooooh snap! I used to work at Nordstrom part time about 2 years ago for about 3 years. I only helped out around the holidays and sale times. It was fun for sure. Towards the end of my time there, I am pretty sure I just got paid to hang out with my manager, which was cool because she is a great friend of mine. So, whatevs. Either way, the Anniversary sale is out of control. It is the best sale of the year. I bought way too much, but honestly, I don't care. I deserve it!

I have been on the look out for a new pair of boots for quite sometime. I was on a mission yesterday to find the perfect pair! Nordys was the place. I tried on a pair (that Steph ended up buying) that were exactly what I was looking for. No go, my feet are retarded. Then, I found the above pair and fell in love!! They were wicked cheap too!! Yes, they are suede, and as Steph pointed out, she cannot handle suede, it reminds her too much of the 80s, hahahaha! Well, I LOVE the 80s, so bring on the suede! I am stoked to figure out what to wear with these new boots and glad I finally found something that I liked. Did I mention I am a shopaholic?

Rachel Getting Married

2009-07-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

Awesome cast.

The other night after a long, long last day of trial, I went to Jon's house and we watched Watchmen. I freaking loved it. We will save that for a later post. I was so blasted exhausted I could not even handle it. I had all intentions of going to bed at7 and waking up 24 hours later. Then, Watchmen was 3 hours long and I got a second wind. So, I went home and watched Rachel Getting Married. I LOVED it. It has received mixed reviews, and I was a little unsure what to expect, except for an incredible performance from Anne Hathaway.

Well, Anne blew me away. I have always liked her movies, but not necessarily her as an actress. I really did like her in The Devil Wears Prada (freaking love that movie). Drugs, scandal, death, family dysfunction. This movie was a hot mess, but I found myself really connecting with the characters. Not really sure why. I am not a drug addict and I am really close with my sisters, but whatev. I cried like a baby. I was watching it by myself and that is never a good idea, that just makes it so much easier for me to sob like mad because no one is watching. I am a basket case and basically cry at anything.

Anne's performance was stellar for sure, but so was the ensemble cast. Her father and sister were fantastic! I found myself rooting for Anne's character (Kim) the entire movie and really felt lonely and sad for her. Man, why do movies get to me so much?!?!

Rome: Dirtiest City.

2009-07-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

The Coliseum, my favorite part of Rome.

Ok, back to my Italy posts... We finally made it to Rome after a ridiculous 4 hours train ride from Pisa. We did not even see the Leaning Tower of Pisa because we got in after dark and were so annoyed with the town, worst town in Italy. We were stuck on this crazy train with about a million 16-18 yr olds heading to the Labor Day free concert in Rome. People were sitting on the floor, standing with their armpits in my face, you know, the usual. Thank goodness we all three got a seat, otherwise that would have been a horrible, horrible train ride. As soon as we arrived in Rome, I already did not like it. The train ride really pissed me off. We realized that yet again, most of the museums and other things we wanted to see were closed for the holiday, so we went on a night walk (Rick Steves book, pretty sweet walk) to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps and a few other places. I will say this about Rome, it has a beautiful and awesome nightlife!

The Coliseum was breathtaking. I think I took more pictures of the Coliseum, than anything else on our trip. We got the audio guides, which was a first, and I am so glad we did! I was constantly envisioning what really happened there and that was awesome! I kept thinking about Gladiator, obviously, and it made it that much more real. I then of course, could not stop thinking about how hot Russel Crowe was in the movie.

We saw Trevi Fountain 3 times and I was still in love by third time. It was breathtakingly beautiful. The Spanish Steps were pretty, but I could not really tell because of the thousand people sitting on them. I literally had to kick garbage out of my way to walk up the steps. I was not to happy about that. I found Rome to be the dirtiest city I have ever been to. I have traveled to a lot of big cities, so that is saying a lot. I also was no impressed with people leaning on statues in the Vatican museum. Really?!?! That put me over the edge. How about a little museum respect? Just a thought...

After a insanely long time in the Rome airport (2 very very long security lines, good times), Kim and I departed Italy on our way back to the states. David followed on a different flight. I was ready to leave, but already planning my next trip back! Italy was the greatest experience. I cannot wait to go back and spend more time on the coast and Tuscany!!! If you ever have the opportunity to go to Italy, DO IT! And ask me to go with you, because I will.

Mr. Thornton or Mr. Darcy...That's a Toughie

2009-07-10T15:30:00.000-07:00

Mr. Thornton, wearing his shirt the way I told him to.

Where do I even begin... Facebook, of course. So, my sister Hillary and I are basically obsessed with RomComs and "Period Dramas". Okay, let's be real, we just love movies in general. Pride & Prejudice? Hell yes, I will take Mr. Darcy any day! So, Hillary had been talking to me about North and South before I moved and I was so busy gathering all my business that I was not really interested. Then, I saw that she was freaking obsessed with talking about it on Facebook with our friend, Marie in California and I knew something must be real fantastic about this show! Just to clarify, Marie and I have a Bachelor/Bachelorette obsession that we frequently talk about on Facebook and we seem to have very similar interests in the way of tv and movies. So, naturally, I started to get anxious to hear more about this show, and frankly, a little jealous that this awesomeness was going on without me!!

I cannot even describe North and South, except to say that it is amazing. I imagine that everyone reading this post has seen Pride & Prejudice with Keira Knightley (stupid question, I know), and, like me, was a little sceptical that any movie could surpass its greatness. But, I am pretty sure North and South will be added to my "watch at least every 2 months" movie pile, right next to P&P. As soon as I watched the finale of N&S, I rewound it and watched the last 5 minutes again. I did the same the next night, because naturally, that is the best part of the whole series!

Mr. Darcy, does he ever smile?

Can you compare Mr. Darcy and Mr. Thornton? I don't think so! They are both total a-holes who eventually win your heart. It took me much longer to fall for Mr. Darcy than for Mr. Thornton. As soon as I saw Mr. Darcy I was like, really, that is who they picked to be Mr. Darcy? Then I became obsessed with him, obviously. As soon as Mr. T appeared on the screen, I looked over to Hillary and said "he is hot." Sold. Something about him being such an ass was really appealing (that sounds real bad). Maybe because you could also see his love for Margaret and that he really was a sensitive dude. Darcy was just a turd the majority of the time, but wicked charming. Yes, he loved Liz, but hellllloooo, you don't break up a girls sister and her bf, okay? I don't know which one I like better. That is pretty much asking me which of my handbags is my favorite, it is torture to chose! I am now officially obsessed with both of them.

Let's be clear, Pride and Prejudice and North and South quite possibly have the best endings to any movie I have ever seen, short of Notting Hill, which is the ultimate ending for RomComs. Right? They are totes worth the watch! Great, now I want to watch them both, right now!!

All That She Wants...

2009-07-08T15:20:00.000-07:00

Yeah, you know you want to finish that sentence with "is another baby". I cannot even tell you how addicted I am to Ace of Base. Last week, my friend Kevin and I went to a record store in Minneapolis, where I stumbled upon this gem and almost peed my pants. It was used, obviously (as I highly doubt A of B is making any more album copies), but I did not care, as I was still in shock that 1) A of B had a Greatest Hits album and 2) Some idiot would get rid of their this classic pop album. I knew right away that this album would be the start to soooo many car dance parties, it was not even funny.

And so it began...The night I bought the greatest album ever, Lacey and I were headed out for the evening. What do I surprise her with in the car? Ace of Base Greatest Hits, baby! So, obviously, we had to have a car dance party. It was out of control! I am pretty sure we remembered ever single word to all of their hits. When we went out that night, I found it important to tell everyone and their mother that I had just bought this glorious album. Most responses were "They have more than three songs?". Uhhhhh, duh! I was offended. They obviously were not a mega fan in the 90s like I was.

Now that I am back in Alaska for a month, I can guarantee you that Amy and I are going to have several car dance parties. Hells yeah! It's a beautiful life, oh oh oh oh, it's a beautiful life...

Mr. Keyboard, We are NOT Friends!

2009-07-02T23:09:00.000-07:00

Seriously, what the BEEP!

Why is it sooooo difficult for my keyboard and I to cooperate!?! I am confused. I have spent an hour (on two separate occasions) typing my Rome post, only to have the whole post deleted by what most would call a "user" error. Riiiiight.... I do not believe that is true. I have had my new laptop for only 2 months and it is still not reading my mind. I mean really, at this point, it should know that I am addicted to celebrity gossip sites, blogging and Facebook, and definitely not get in the way of that! Bitch please! It should also realize that when I accidentally hit ctrl+D, I really don't mean it!!!

Mr. Keyboard, you better learn to read my mind real fast, or you are not going to have a happy life. Just sayin.

Cinque Terre: Favorite Place On The Planet. Hands Down.

2009-06-24T12:27:00.000-07:00

The start of our hike. BEAUTIFUL Vernazza, the second village

(of the five in Cinque Terre). This is were we stayed.

Cinque Terre is the region of five (cinque) villages on the beautiful, most amazing, Northwest Italian coast. I cannot say this enough, Cinque Terre is my favorite place on the planet. As soon as we arrived, I knew it would be. I had heard about it from my sister Kim and her husband Josh, who had been there 2 years prior and totally fell in love. You can hike between all of the villages, through the hills, along the ocean, beautiful. So, we started in Vernazza, where we were staying, and went to the next three villages. It was the most amazingly beautiful hike I have ever done. Above is a view of Vernazza at the start of our hike. I apologize for the multiple pics, but I have soooo many more I wish I could post, but I will spare you.

Locks along "Lover's Lane" (Via dell'Amore) between the villages of Manarola and Riomaggiore.
My lock is the newest looking gold lock on the top middle.

The hike became more and more beautiful the further we went and the closer we hiked down to the ocean. There was a section of the trail that was sheer up from the ocean, we were walking in half tunnels carved out in the cliffs, it was called the "Lover's Lane" (come to find out later). There were graffitied like a mofo, but it worked. I would never really say that graffiti was beautiful, but I think that this walk would not be the same without it. I was mesmerized. We kept noticing that there were random locks (as above) all over fences lining the trail. A little confusing. Then, we can upon all the graffiti and, what I can only assume was called, the "Lover's Chair" with locks on the railings surrounding it. I had to put my lock on there, obviously. I had to leave my mark on Italy. I have never been so excited in my life. It was sooo great!!

Me and my new Italian best friends from the Blue Marlin Bar in Vernazza.
Mossimo, Jeffrey, and Perfection (as Kim and I liked to call him)

We finished the magnificent hike and had an amazing dinner in Vernazza. Where Kim and David proceeded to chat up a couple of older ladies. Next thing you know, they are offering to do David's laundry if he will haul their bags down the stairs from their hotel in the morning. Done and done. Random!!! We had read in the Rick Steves book (we called him our fourth traveling companion, he made our Italy trip that much better) that the best local bar was the Blue Marlin. So, obviously, we headed down there. Oooooooh man, we had no idea what we were in for. BEST NIGHT OF MY LIFE! Yep, I just said that. We proceeded to drink a ton, I was watching all the locals guys with their dreads (I looooooove dread locks, fyi). Hotties with naughty bodies indeed. Just saying. There was a local pommeranian that was hilarious. He/she pranced in the bar, and noone even noticed, like it happened all the time. Soo awesome! So, I was taking my usually ridiculous self pics and pictures of the hot bartenders and awesome bar owner, Mossimo, bustin a move with drum sticks on liquor bottles behind the bar.

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Next thing you know, Mossimo is talking to me. He is asking me about taking pictures, yada yada. He asked if I would take more and email them to him. HELLLLLL YEAH!!!! It's on bitches! At this point I was so freaking excited/buzzed that I could hardly contain myself. After bartender Jeffrey (born in CA, but Italian - awesome!) made us awesome drinks and shots all night, I took a shitton of pics, and probably said "this is my favorite bar on the planet" about 100 times, the bar was closing and it was time to head out. I went over to Mossimo and told him we were leaving, but I wanted a pic of the three of them. He made Jeffrey and Perfection stop making drinks and get together for a pic for me. Precious, obviously. Then, I was like, I want to be in one with you all, too. Mossimo, "yessss!!! get back here" (behind the bar). That is the picture above. Then I said goodbye to Mossimo and we made sure that I would email him the pics. He hugged me and kissed me on each cheek (I almost died). I was in love... Said goodbye to Jeffrey, he was the best, and we made our way down to the water front, then back to our room!!! TOP NIGHT!!!

The next day, we packed up and headed to the first village, Monterosso to lay on the beach. (They have the only beach in Cinque Terre). It was a glorious, relaxing day. From where we sat on the beach, we could see the other 4 villages along the coast (above pic). Absolutely amazing!!!! If you ever go to Italy, you HAVE to go to Cinque Terre. Next time I go to Italy, I want to spend the majority of my time there, it is totally worth it!

Florence...The David is That Tall??

2009-06-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

The leather market, aka, handbag heaven.

We stayed at a pretty rad hostel in Florence for three nights, Plus Florence, and had a pretty awesome roomies. Since our first day there was actually spent in Tuscany, we had to make up some time and head to the museums early in the am. David and I headed to Uffizi Gallery, which was freaking amazing! On the walk there (which was surprising shorter than we expected from our hostel) we passed the Ponte Vecchio, which is basically a bridge with jewelry shops on it. You can see the pic below. It is beautiful! Then, Kim met up with us for some delicious (I thought) hot chocolate, then we split off from David to go to the leather market. Basically, the leather market was the greatest thing that has ever been created for my life. I think I bought 6 handbags (2 for my sisters) and I could have bought soooo many more, but I stopped myself. I also bought a ton of pashminas, which are glorious and every Italian wears one everyday.

One of three Davids in Florence. This was not to scale of the main one. It was outside of the Uffizi Gallery.

We later reconnected with David to go to Accademia and climb to the top of the Duomo. Accademia is where The David is. After waiting in line with an ex oil company big wig (and his wife, they were awesome) from who used to live in AK and is real close to Sarah Palin - random- we made our way through the museum. I was looking at some statues when David called over to me, "uh, Hannah" I turned around to see the 15 foot tall David statue and was left speechless for about five minutes. I am not even joking. It was the most perfect, beautiful, amazing piece of art that I have ever seen. We walked around it and stared at him forever. I could not keep my eyes off it him. Every vein, every muscle, every wrinkle, my mind had officially been blown.

The beautiful Ponte Vecchio.

After seeing the gloriousness that was David, we met back up with Kim and climbed over 400 steps to the top of the Duomo (church). It was quite a haul, but totally worth it. The view of Florence was phenomenal!! I was pleasantly surprised with Florence. Kim and Josh had told me how much they loved it (and Kim loved the market, of course), so I knew I would be just as jazzed. Florence, you are amazing!!

Tuscany: San Gimignano

2009-06-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Vineyards of Tuscany...Soooooo amazing!!!

San Gimignano was one of my favorite places in Italy. Mainly because it was quaint, beautiful, in Tuscany, and full of red wine. Before I left for Italy, I had decided that I was going to buy a case of wine and ship it back home, no matter how expensive. San Jim Jam was the village for that I went to the first wine shop I saw and asked the old man about shipping wine home. He spoke very little English, but some how we could communicate. He was basically my favorite person on the planet at that point, he was talking to me in Italian, showing me all the different kinds of wines in his shops. Needless to say, I was mesmerized. But, I did not buy any wine from him. So, I moved onto another shop where the man was real cute and he let me taste 5 wines. When I say "taste" I mean pour me a full pour of wine. I was in heaven. I bought 6 bottles to ship home and they just arrived back in AK 2 weeks ago while I was in New York. I am reeeeal excited to open a bottle with my fam when I get home. We spent the evening in San Jim Jam watching all the locals and have a great dinner at the cutest restaurant I have ever seen. We took a train back to Florence to start our grand Florence adventure!!!

Several of the beautiful towers in San Jim Jam.

Tuscany: Siena

2009-06-21T14:42:00.000-07:00

Duomo in Siena

We were on our way to Florence when we realized that basically every museum is closed on Mondays, so we needed to figure out something else to do that first day in Florence. So, we decided to go to Tuscany. Helllllll yeah!! I was so freaking excited. I am addicted to red wine. It is my favorite thing on the planet, next to dvr. We arrived in Sienna and I was blown away. It was such a beautiful town with alot of stories to tell. David and I toured the beautiful black and white striped marble duomo and we walked all over town. Siena is the town in the first chase scene in the newest James Bond movie, fyi. You know, the part with the horse race? Yeah, we were there! From Siena we took a bus to San Gimignano, which we could never pronounce, so we just called in San Jim Jam. That was the cutest, most surprising little tuscan village. I instantly fell in love.

Venice, I Am in Love With You!!

2009-06-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

Gondola clusterjam under the Rialto Bridge.

I just wrote a freaking fantastic Italy post, and accidentally deleted it. I guess that is what you get with a new laptop and my inability to adapt to a different keyboard. The other day I was writing an email and accidentally deleted it 3 times before I could finally hang on long enough to send it. I'm retarded...

On to Italy. I met my friend Kim in Portland and we made the trek to Italy together. The flights were surprisingly awesome! Minus the fact that Kim had a d-bag sitting behind her who basically told her that she could not lay her seat back all the way because "his legs are too long". Really? Are you going to be that rude on a 9 hour flight were no one is comfortable? I am not really sure why you being too tall is our problem, you probably should have gotten an exit row or first class seat, just saying. I understand that you have real long legs, but...ok, enough ranting.

We made it to Milan and immediately got on a train to Venice to meet up with David. It was a pretty uneventful 2 hour train ride, aside from the two hilarious Italian men sitting across from us. How do I know they were hilarious? Well, the one sitting across from me (and I mean knee to knee sitting, real awkward sometimes) kept looking up from his newspaper at me, then talking to his friend and laughing. I was amused. We randomly bumped into David at the train station and on we went to explore the magic that was Venice.

St. Marks Square and Basilica were freaking fantastic! The Gondola ride was all I thought it would be. Of course, I bought my first of many Italian leather handbags in Venice. We stayed on Lido, which was a separate island from the main section of Venice. It was fantastic!!! Side note: Salma Hayek got married in Venice the day we were there. And who attended? Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem, my crushes. I really wanted to find a way to crash that wedding, I am pretty sure I could have made it happen, but ran out of time. Next, onto Florence!!

Blogging, How I Have Missed You!!!

2009-05-08T02:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, so obviously I have not blogged for quite sometime. I'm not gonna lie, I have missed it. I thought about doing one mega post, wrapping up the last 2 months. But, let's be real, that would turn into a debacle and not be fun for anyone. So, I am going to try and catch you up on my fantastic adventures in a series of posts. We shall see how that goes...

See Ya!

2009-04-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

I will out of the blogging world for a couple weeks! I will just be drinking wine 24-7 in Italy, no big deal. I will have plenty to post about when I return!

Soapdish, Ironman, same thing...

2009-04-20T23:12:00.000-07:00

Robert Downey, Jr. is a hot mess! So naturally, I am in love with him. I have actually loved this guy since I was pretty young and think he might have been my first "Hollywood crush" (aside from NKOTB of course). Soapdish may be one of the most ridiculously awesome movies of all time. And RDJ is classic in it! That is when I knew I loved him! It just kept getting better (and worse) from there. A few run ins with the law, rehab (you know, the usual) and he was a real movie star. He has had a string of great films. To name a few of my favorites: Only You (freaking love this movie), Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (crazy awesome movie, and pretty much exactly how I expect RDJ to be in real life), Iron Man (holy crap that movie is good), and Wonderboys. He is very talented, and unexpected. I love that he acts like he is on crack half the time (he probably was through most of his career). He is funny, classy, and straight crazy. I know many of you probably just think he is total crazytown, but I think that is what makes him a great actor. He really uses his weirdness to make incredible characters. He is the epitome of a hot mess.

He might be a little metrosexual and carry a manpurse, and occasionally wear his jimmy jams in public, but I still love the guy. I'm glad he has turned his life around and made a comeback to the sober world. I think I will always have a crush on RBJ, he is just way too adorable. Iron Man 2 has started filming. Get excited!!!!

The Countdown!!!

2009-04-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

I leave Alaska one month from today and I leave for Italy one week from today!!! Holy crap! This is all happening so fast, I cannot believe it!! So much to do and not enough hours in the day.

What the Beep, Bret Michaels?

2009-04-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

David, Jason, Amy and I have gotten hooked on a little show called Rock of Love Bus. It is an outrageously ridiculous reality show following Bret Michaels (lead singer of Poison) on the road while trying to find love out of 23 filthy sluts. It is gloriously entertaining. I watched the first season, Rock of Love and realized it was totally ridiculous, and therefore I could not stop watching it. This season was no different. Nastier and dumber girls and Bret Micheals nasty hair extensions made a disgusting return. This show is a train wreck and a half, but we totally love it!

SPOILER ALERT: The finale of Rock of Love Bus was glorious. Amy, Jason and I watched it on Monday night. It was down to the final two: Frenemies Mindy and Taya. We were all rooting for Mindy. I was totally shocked when Bret picked Taya, the most ridiculous slut on the show. She has real stupid hair, outrageously over manicured eye brows, and is a crazy self-promoter. She was by far my least favorite. Mindy was obviously the better choice in this equation. Seriously Bret, what the beep were you thinking??!?! Bret Michaels is not the man I thought he was. Oh wait, yes he is. A dirty old rock star who wants a dirty slut to be his girlfriend. He does not deserve Mindy. She is too normal and adorable for him. Taya? Really? Bret, I want to pull out your hair extensions, they are obviously clouding your judgment.

All This Technology in the Palm of My Hand? Ooooh Lordy

2009-04-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

I did it. I made the switch from ACS to AT&T and it is glorious. I had to switch due to my fastly approaching move to the lower 48. Because, if something goes wrong with my phone (which it most likely will) I want to have a place to talk to a live person and get my business taken care of! So obviously, I needed a national company. Let's make one thing clear. I am not a fan of anything national (aside from stores-- I would die if I could only shop at local stores. I need Nordstrom and Barnes & Noble). I like to keep my money in local banks and my phone service with local companies, etc. I am just a tad territorial. Although, as my friends and family can attest to, I consistently get screwed over by local companies. Seriously, my local bank sees me coming and say "oh great, what went wrong now". I am not joking. They are practically stealing my money without me noticing. So, I guess it is about time I move on.

I have never been a fan of AT&T. But, I really don't have any options if I want to keep my cell number. Um, duh! I am not getting rid of my 907! I have to say, the rates were waaaay better and I get the data package included for as much as I was paying at ACS without the data package (internet). Plus, I figured it would be beneficial for me to have the internet while on my month long road trip.

I always told myself that I did not need internet in the palm of my hand, that it was outrageous and that I would never get an iPhone. Well, I kind of succeeded in sticking to my guns. I bought the LG Vu and it is amazing! I freaking love this phone! It is a touch screen with the internet and everything else you could possibly want or need in a phone. I can watch tv on it. Yeah, I am definitely NOT going to be doing that. That is taking it a little too far. But, best of all I have no roaming charges (I always get brutal fees when I travel), free nights and weekends and roll over minutes (ACS cannot offer me any of this at a reasonable rate, or at all). I know that all of you with AT&T are saying: "Way to join the AT&T train way late." Oh, I am so on this train, you have no idea. I realize I have only been with them for a week, but it has been a great week!

Black Violin

2009-04-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

This past Friday, I took my little brother Ben (who is actually like 6 inches taller than me-yes, he is real tall) to see Black Violin. I did not know too much about them, but I knew I was going to instantly be in love when I saw them live. Indeed I was. I have seen ALOT of amazing concerts in my day; Coldplay, John Mayer, Elton John, Jack Johnson, The Frames, Kings of Leon, and several others, but this was like nothing I had ever experienced. I played violin for 7 years and I am not saying I was phenomenal by any means, but I know how difficult and time consuming it is to learn to play any instrument well. Black Violin knows their stuff. They play as if their instruments are apart of their body. They were all over the stage, engaging the audience like nobody's business. It was as if the violin was their voice. I guess for them, it is. It was mesmerizing. As soon as they took the stage, no "hello, what's going on Alaska" (as would usually be the case), but an amazing sound that literally brought tears to my eyes and the biggest smile to my face. A violin, a viola, and a dj. That may sound a little dramatic, but if you have ever been fortunate to see these incredible artists live, you know exactly what I mean.

Black Violin was in Anchorage all of last week giving concerts for schools and master violin classes. They started playing at 9 and 14 and really have a great message and story to share with kids. They have toured with pretty much every major hip hop artist you can think of, but got their start from Alisha Keys. The group is made up of Kev Marcus (violin) and Wil B (viola, beat-box, voice, and several other instruments) playing while DJTK is dropping beats in the background. Seriously, this group is the story of my life and everything I love. I feel that this is the one music group that could ever encompass who I am. I don't need words, just give me a beat, throw in some strings and call it a day.

If you ever get the opportunity to see Black Violin, do not pass it up. When your 13 year old brother looks at you after the concert and says, "they make me want to play violin" you know they have really taken classical music to the next level, and are changing the way people feel about it. They are inspiring and absolutely phenomenal.

Mt. Redoubt, You Are the Devil

2009-03-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

Well lady, here you are in all of your devil glory. Look at your huge head, with some sort of crown or something on, your hands on your hips, big kazongas, and lightning at your feet. Um, why the hands on the hips? What the beep do you have to be pissed about? Is it really necessary that you mock us with your attitude? At least you did not make me wear a hideous face mask because of your nasty ash. Otherwise, I would have taken you down my friend. So, devil lady, I think you should stay down in the bottom of Mt. Redoubt and never come back. Lock it up! Am I making myself clear?

Best Costco Find, Ever!

2009-03-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Um, we are missing one bride and one brother, whoopsie.

I went to Costco last week and found the best, most amazing dvd finds of all time. Well, you will only think so if you are in my family or like old movies. That place was the mecca for $8 old movies, and I was in heaven! I found Houseboat, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Singin' In the Rain, and Rebel Without a Cause. I pretty much went ballistic when I saw 7B for 7B. Seriously? On dvd? Best day of my life. That movie is by far one of my top five favorite musicals. It is pretty much 7 Brothers all running around wearing plaid shirts, chopping wood, dancing at a barn raising, and singing to the ladies they kidnapped, no big deal. Singin' In the Rain and Houseboat? Pump your brakes!! For real, Costco is just messing with me at this point. Cary Grant and Sophia Loren in Houseboat = spectacular. That is definitely one of my all time favorite movies. Sophia Loren is so classic. And Cary Grant, ooooh man, I love that guy! We watched this movie alot growing up. I can not say enough good things about Singin' In the Rain I did not watch it until I was in high school, which was very strange. We watched a TON of old movies, and musical growing up. I have no idea how that was never slid in there. I found my other favorite musical, Meet Me in St. Louis, at Costco several months ago. Sooo freakin fantastic! Apparently, Costco knows what's up in the movie department!

Get Ready to Beam Me Aboard...

2009-03-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

Old School - Helll yeah!

So, I guess I am a trekky, I said it. BUT I am not a nerdy trekky who dresses up or anything like that (even though that could be real entertaining). I just love me a good space show with holograms, attractive crew members, and "beam me up" thingies.

My family loved this show growing up. That was the one show we would all sit down and watch together on Saturday nights. I'm not gonna lie, I had a major crush on Captain Jean Luke Picard and Number 1. Don't even get me started on Jordy Laforge. I used to pretend I was him by putting a banana hair clip over my eyes. Didn't everyone do that?!

The Newbies.

I saw a kick ass preview for the new Star Trek movie at the theater this weekend and I could barely contain myself. This movie looks total crazytown and awesomely spectacular!! I cannot wait to see it!! I am a little nervous that it won't be as good as I am expecting, but with J.J. Abrams directing it, I feel like it has to be glorious! This movie is set to release May 8. I am super stoked that Wolverine and Star Trek come out within a week of each other, right after I get back from Italy and right before I move. Can you say best 3 weeks of my life?

Am I Ready for This?

2009-03-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

I am leaving my family and friends behind in the great state of Alaska two months from today!! I am starting to get emotional about it and I think I am in a little bit of denial as well. When I was driving home from my parents house in the valley last night, I started getting teary eyed because the sunset was so amazingly beautiful on Pioneer Peak and the surrounding mountains and I know I will not be seeing that in Minnesota, no sir. It is just one of those things that I take for granted living in Alaska and will not realize how much I miss it until I am gone. I recently realized that subconsciously, I am starting to pull away from people. Knowing that I will be leaving soon and maybe should practice being away from everyone involved in my life. This is completely unintentional. Of course I want to spend all of my time with my family and friends, but I think I am just a basket of emotions and do not want to face reality just yet. Basically I want to cry every time my family is all together, knowing that I will be missing out on all of this in the future. My mom sent my sisters and I an email today that basically said how great we all are and how fortunate we are to have such a close, amazing family, and that they will all miss me. Obviously, I cried. I think all of these emotions I am feeling are completely normal for someone who has never moved away from their family and friends. I just cannot believe this is finally happening.

I am excited about moving, don't get me wrong. I am so excited to be close to my great friend Lacey, and my cousin Peter in Minnesota. Mainly, I am excited about the whole new adventure it will bring. 2 months from today, I will be starting a new life journey. It will be rough, but it will probably be one of the best experiences of my life. I know I can handle it. Whatever happens, I know my friends and family love me and that is all that really matters.

Friday Night Lights

2009-03-09T11:45:00.000-07:00

Last year I discovered one of the best shows on television, Friday Night Lights. I am not exaggerating when I say that. This show has got some serious heart. They are the little show that could. It did not get picked up by NBC right away this season, so it was exclusively on Direct TV, um... who has that? I was pissed! Thankfully, NBC decided to air the third season starting in January. I cannot stop watching. This show is filmed remarkably well. The cast is phenomenal, the music is great and it all circles around crazy intense Texas football, what more could you ask for? Every time I hear someone talk about this show, they are saying how amazing it is! But, so many people have never seen it or have no idea what it even is. Well, I am telling you now, watch it!

I seriously adore this show. Yes, there are extremely attractive cast members who date each other and that is entertaining. But, it is more than that. The football team bond, the small town bond, the great story lines for every character. Texas football is a whole other world, and I like it! I really hope that this show gets a fourth season. I had a FNL mini-marathon for the first season this weekend, and we are in the middle of the third season right now. I cannot stop watching it. You NEED to see this show, it is great! My favorite person on the planet, Chelsea Handler, is obsessed with FNL, probably more than I am. She has had almost every cast member on her show and it is awesome. FYI, Matt Saracen, I am in love with you. What can I say, quarterbacks have my heart.

My Name is Hannah, and I am a Shopaholic.

2009-03-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

"I cannot live without this". I constantly have that look.

I just saw Confessions of a Shopaholic last night and realized it was the story of my life. Not the part about debt collectors stalking me, working at a magazine, or falling in love, but the rest of it. The parts about shopping because it makes your life better and the world better, you cannot live without any of it, and you refuse to give any of it away. Yeah, those parts. I am out of control. Even when I try to save money, it never works, I just end up going shopping. I never really feel guilty for shopping. That is the problem.

When I am bored, I shop. When I feel bad about myself or a situation, I shop. And, I am pretty sure I am evil enough to force my addiction onto other people by making them buy things they would never have bought before. Just ask David and Jason. Hey, it's just money, right? It is a vicious cycle, but I like it! I almost get annoyed when people don't like shopping. Um, seriously? Who do you think you are? Shopping is the greatest therapy out there. I do always ask myself: Is it really necessary that you buy so much stuff, and don't use ANY of it for like a month, while it sits in shopping bags on your bedroom floor? No, it is not necessary, or logical, but just having the shopping bags full of stuff makes me feel better. Oh man, as I am writing this, I am freaking myself out! This is baaaaad news!

The phrase "do I really need this" usually does not exist in my vocabulary, unless it is a very big purchase. In that instance, I will think about it a little bit, then usually end up buying it. I am not good at saying no. Another thing I am not good at? Turning down a sale. I am a huge sucker for sales and actually have gotten pretty good at sale shopping. Sales are the ultimate in shopping world. You score the most outrageous deals and still have more money to spend on non sale items. I know, that sounds wack, but that is how we function.

Greatest name for a girl who loves shopping/fashion and works in journalism? Rebecca Bloomwood. Hands down. That is Isla Fisher, the main character in the movie. She is fantastic, adorable, I want to be her! Her fashion sense is outrageously awesome, her closet takes up her entire bedroom, and she is passionate about shopping. It is the one thing that makes her feel right. The way she talks about shopping like it is an experience and you have to enjoy every purchase, not rush through the stores. Um, duh! Who doesn't like to look at handbags for an hour and still not decide on one, but maybe 3?

I will say this. I am going to sell alot of my handbags, clothes and everything else I own (much of it with the tags still on) before I move in May. I have already started the process of sorting through everything and it is liberating for sure. Unfortunately, it makes me want to go buy more stuff. I really need to get a handle on this, we shall see... Now all I need is to work for a magazine and fall in love and my life would be complete. I'll take the job, not the love, who needs that?

Mambo Italiono!

2009-02-27T15:10:00.000-08:00

I am going to Italy!! I am so excited!! Why am I going? Because I want to and I can. It is kind of awesome timing if you think about it. I am moving to MN on May 16, so this is in between transitions, therefore, perfect. My friend Kim (fellow Crewnit member who is now living in Portland) and I are flying over April 24 to meet up with David at the end of his European adventure. We are flying into Milan, traveling around for 10 days, and flying out of Rome. I am beyond excited!!! As long as I get to go to a coastal town (ideally, Cinque Terre), the amazing market in Florence (as per my sister, Kim), a vineyard, see all the statues and architecture I desire (David, Trevi Fountain, you know, the usual), and drink a boat load of wine, I am all good! And, I just bought a new camera and plan on taking about a million pictures, that I am sure will not do Italy justice.

Have you seen Only You? Marisa Tomie, Robert Downey, Jr. & Bonnie Hunt + Italy = Yahtzee! I am in LOVE with this movie and have watched it about a million times. I have always wanted to go to Positano because of this movie. It seems like the most spectacularly beautiful coastal town. But, pretty much everywhere in Italy seems beautiful, so wherever we go, it will be a win win.

Just in case you were wondering; Yes, I am fully prepared that upon my return to the US, I will most likely want to immediately fly back to Italy and live there. I am totally okay with that. I am just still in shock that we are actually going. It is going to be so amazingly gorgeous, I don't even think I can prepare myself for it all. Kim and Josh have been a good Italy source and I am going to continue to rack their brains for the best things to see and do and not do while we are over there. They went to Italy for 3 weeks, 2 years ago and have amazing pictures and stories. I can only hope that this trip to Italy will spark an international travel urge in me, that will change my life forever. Don't be surprised if I go to Europe like about times a year after this trip. I know I am jumping the gun a little, as I have not been to Italy yet, but I know myself. I will completely fall in love with it. Although, I might be sick of wine by the time I get back. Who am I kidding, that will never happen!

My Little Gold Friend.

2009-02-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

I usually am not too amped to watch the over 3 hours of speeches, but last night was probably the most entertaining and well put together Oscars I have ever seen! Yay Slumdog Millionaire!! I seriously love that movie, sooo much! It was by far one of my favorite films of 2008, if not my No. 1. If you have not seen it, you HAVE to! They dominated the little gold statues last night. Best Motion Picture and Danny Boyle for Director, among several other wins. I was also very excited that Penelope Cruz won Best Supporting Actress for Vicky Cristina Barcelona. She was phenomenal in that film, and deserves all the credit she has received. My two biggest excitements of the evening? Hugh Jackman being the best Oscar host on the planet and my girl-crush, Kate Winslet, winning Best Actress. Are you kidding me? I was so excited for her. The Reader was a great film, unexpected, but great. She is so versatile, I just adore her so much. And Hugh, I am sure I do not need to tell you yet again how in love with him I am. His singing and dancing numbers last night were amazing. He had me at "Good evening and welcome to the Academy Awards" in his Australian accent.

Alaska and I are Parting Ways...For Now.

2009-02-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

As many of you may already know, I am moving to Minneapolis, Minnesota in May. Yes, as in 3 months from now. I did not take this decision lightly and it was a very had decision to make. My amazing friend, Lacey and her hubbie and my cuz Peter live there, so that will be awesome! I also have some family and family friends about 2 hours away. I know this will be difficult, but I think I at least need to try and get out there and do what I want with my life, with my future. I want to experience living somewhere other than Alaska and want to know that I can make it. I am really stoked about the opportunities and adventure this will bring. My family and friends are completely supportive and that makes it so much easier to leave them all. This just means we are going to have to have vacations together and visit each other, alot!

I am driving out of here on May 16, taking my time, driving through Seattle, Spokane and Santa Cruz to visit friends on the way. I will be stopping in AZ (I realize this is a HUGE detour from MN, but whatever) for my cousin Noah's wedding on May 30 which should be spectacular and a mini family reunion. Then head up to my new home the first week of June. I love road trips, so I am really looking forward to that!

I just told my boss last week that I was moving. That was the hardest part. But, I did it and he was so supportive, I could hardly believe it. Seriously, it is still blowing my mind as to how well he took it. I have been with him for almost 8 years and he has taught my so much, so this is an emotional parting. I grew up at this law firm, it has been my life. I have been blessed. Sure, it has accounted for high-stress and nervous breakdowns, but it has provided me with a lifetime of knowledge and I will be eternally grateful.

I plan on taking the two weeks before I leave to say goodbye to friends/family, take my last few camping trips and do some Alaskan things that I have been wanting to do, but haven't. Of course I am nervous and sad to leave, but, I'm soooo excited!! I am ready for Minnesota, but can it handle me? Let's hope so!

Oh, So That is Why he is Not Calling...

2009-02-11T12:15:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Amy and I went to see the much anticipated, He's Just Not That Into You. I loved it, of course. I am sure you are catching on that there is not much that I don't love. I loved it so much I went to see it with my sisters again this week. I'm ridic, I know. I bought this book several years ago when it first came out and found it to be one of the funniest, most accurate, real books I had ever read. It is more of a compilation of emails/letters/questions and responses, a self-help book if you will, than an actual novel. Either way, it is glorious. I think every woman should read this book. It is unbelievably accurate and I found myself saying "Ah, Damn, that really means he is not into me?" quite often.

Girls can be the same way towards guys. Not call, lead you on, yada yada. So, I definitely do not think it is fair to put all of this on guys. Girls are emotional. Waaaay too emotional sometimes. We read into everything, we analyze most everything a guy says, and make up stories in our minds of how an entire relationship will turn out, never wanting to actually believe that he is just not that into us. Who wants to believe that crap anyway? It is true. Ladies, guys do not think like us, mmk!?! I have had my share of gut wrenching, never want to see a guy again experiences, who hasn't? But believe me, I know how easy it is to fall into the "Damn girl! He is sooo into me, you don't even know!" trap. Um, like everyday.

Go see this movie!! It is a chick flick and a half, but the cast is great and the movie is very enjoyable!

You Can Breakdance?

2009-02-10T10:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at lunch, I came home to Hillary playing "My Love" by JT and Lucy breakdancing on the kitchen floor. This is not a joke. That kid is ridiculous! Seriously, she was breakin it down like nobody's business, like she knew what she was doing. We have no idea were she learned to do it, but who cares, it is awesome! Then after work, I came home to them still blasting JT and dancing. But this time, there was breakdancing mixed in with incredible Robot moves from Eleni (5) and Lucy (7) (Nina and Jonas were joining in as well). Now that seriously came out of nowhere. How do they know how to do the Robot? I could not stop laughing and was pretty blown away at their talent. Lucy is a natural at this sort of thing, she is taking ballet and is real good at dancing. She has the sassy style and attitude (sorry Hillary, I know it is my fault!), she is basically my Mini Me. If I am uncertain about an outfit, I usually ask her. Yes, she is almost 7 and I ask her for fashion advise. Hillary has got her hands full with this one. These kids are ridiculously awesome to observe, that is for damn sure!

Best Dance Off, Ever!!

2009-02-09T14:50:00.000-08:00

CB and Usher, super excited about their upcoming dance-off with JT

Everyone knows I love JT (Justin Timerblake). That kid can dance! But, I also love Usher and Chris Brown(CB), mainly for their dancing skills. While watching the Grammy's last night with Kim and Josh and raving about how incredible JT is, I discovered something. Possibly the single greatest event that could ever occur? Dance off between JT, CB, and Usher. I would lose my mind. If you have ever seen these boys dance, you know exactly what I am talking about. I have never seen such amazing dancing as JT when I saw him last year. But then I watch CB and Usher and I am continually blown away. This match up would be so glorious, I cannot even handle it! So, I am going to have my people talk to their people and set this all up, no biggie.

Hi. Have We Met?

2009-02-05T17:52:00.000-08:00

I have amazing green eyes, don't worry about it.

Apparently, I had forgotten all about my obsession with the actor Clive Owen. That is, until he recently re-surfaced promoting The International. I am not really drawn to this movie, but I am most definitely liking the press for it. Damn, he is classy! Welcome back my friend, welcome back! How could I possibly have forgotten about him? He is real good looking and pretty damn good at that little thing we like to call acting, so...naturally, he is the perfect man for me!

He is going to be in Duplicity with Julia Roberts this year, so I have even more press pics to look forward to. Booya! I loved him in Children of Men, which is a phenomenal film. If you have not seen it, do it! He was very good and surpassed any expectation I had of him as an actor. He was also really good in Closer, which is a pretty scandalous and crazy film. But, I was totally intrigued and really liked it. I completely fell for him in King Arthur. A hottie wearing armor, dominating the country side in his studly warrior ways? Perf! Kiera Knightly step aside, I got this one!

I am pretty sure if I ever get married, he must have the hottest British or Australian accent (hello, Hugh Jackman), or he is out. Just saying.

You Had Me at Watergate

2009-02-03T15:40:00.001-08:00

I watched Frost/Nixon this weekend and was blown away. It is by far one of my favorite movies of 2008 (right up there with Slumdog Millionaire, Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Man On Wire). There is one moment about 5 minutes into the movie where I could not look away from the screen and knew that I was going to be in love with the film. Indeed, I was in love. I knew the basics about Watergate, but not much more than that. I knew the scandal, I knew the controversy, but nothing really prepared me for these interviews. I was very intrigued and interested just to learn more about them and the scandal.

I was so captivated. The whole movie truth and admittance is sought from Nixon, and damn, did Frost get it or what! It was mesmerizing watching these two phenomenal actors perform. Frank Langella (Richard Nixon) and Michael Sheen (David Frost) were incredible. I instantly fell in love with Michael Sheen. I was rooting for him the whole time. A British TV show host interviewing the former President of the United States? That is crazytalk! No, it is genius. Frost knew what he needed, what the American people wanted to hear from Nixon and fought to get it. Even when I thought he was not prepared enough to interview Nixon, I still found myself fighting for him. I really got into these characters and almost cried at one point. Frank Langella was awesome. You hated him, thought he was a scum bag, but you also had this heartfelt sympathy for him. Spectacularly done. The supporting cast was so well chosen, it is not even funny. With Sam Rockwell (one of my all time faves), Kevin Bacon (who has aged quite well), Oliver Platt (Classically awesome), and Matthew Macfadyen (Yes, he is Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice, so of course I loved him) how could you go wrong? This film is downright gloriously done. Well done Ron Howard, well done.

I think that everyone should see this film. Scandal, betrayal, trust and faith. This film portrayed all of those beautifully and really opened my eyes to a political time before me, a time that I have always feared and questioned. Government is not for the weak, that is for damn sure. Frost/Nixon is a phenomenal film, I cannot say it enough.

VOLCANO!!!

2009-01-29T22:17:00.000-08:00

Mt. Redoubt, blow your damn top already! It will be good times all around, so get on with it. But be warned, you scratch my car with your ash, or force me to wear one of those hideous face masks, and I will take you down my friend!!

Handbags=Awesome

2009-01-29T10:59:00.000-08:00

Carrie Bradshaw loves her Manolos, I love my handbags. We are pretty much the same person, just saying. I am obsessed with handbags, it's no secret. I don't even know how many I have, but there are rubermaid tubs full of them, so... I do not feel like I had a successful shopping trip unless I bought at least one handbag. Well, I am ready to admit, that things have gotten out of control. Phew, now that I got that off my chest, I am going shopping...

No really, this is serious business. I looooove handbags so much! I just don't really have room for them all. It is a very, very tough task going through them by myself because I know how much I spent on them and I love them all, so I don't want to get rid of them. So, my mom and Kim have decided that they need to help me with the process. Wait, is this some sort of intervention? Who am I kidding? I need it!

I started to read the book, Confessions of a Shopaholic. Needless to say, I am a shopaholic, but I did not need the book to tell me that. But, it is time to put the MasterCards down. Did I just say that? Ugh, this is going to be harder than I thought! But, I know I can work on it. It is going to be difficult and I am going to have to take baby steps, but I think I can do it. I am not giving up on shopping. That is a joke and a half, who do you think I am, people? I am simply taking it down a notch, a manageable notch. I will keep you posted on my progress. I am getting scared just thinking about it!

Are You Lying to Me?

2009-01-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

The other night, I was in the kitchen showing Hillary our ridiculous alley pics on Facebook when this conversation struck up with my 6 year old niece, Lucy, from the stairs. Lucy wanted Hillary to come upstairs because she could not get to sleep:

Lucy: "Mom, can you come up here?"
Hillary: "Yes, in 3 minutes."
Lucy: "Do you promise?"
Hillary: "Yes."
Lucy: "Are you telling the truth?"
Hillary: "Lucy, when I promise that means I am telling the truth."
Lucy: "Okay, I will count to 60, 3 times"

At this point, I was dying laughing as quietly as possible, of course. Oh kids, they are ridiculously awesome!

Karate Was Her Name.

2009-01-20T15:25:00.000-08:00

Amy, Lorna and I - Self pics at Beerfest!

Saturday, my buddy (and fellow member of the Crewnit), David, turned the big 2-5!! How did we celebrate? With beer, alley romps, karate, and dance marathons, of course. David, Jason, Amy, Lorna, Jon and I went to the Beer and Barley Wine Festival and, as usual, had a fantastic time! We ran into old friends and of course, I fell in love with the Full Sail rep, no biggie. After Beerfest it was just the Trio (Jason, David, and I), dominating Anchorage, and making people jealous, like we always do.

Graffiti? Let's take ridiculous pictures!

Apparently, we love graffiti and alleys in Anchorage. There was noooo way we were going to walk to Bernies Bungalo (one of my favorite bars downtown) from Sub-Zero (my favorite martini bar downtown) without traveling through our "favorite alley". This alley has served for much hilarity over the past year and a half, mainly due to the fact that we always have to do something ridiculous while in it. Saturday night was no different. Jason was super stoked about the alley, but he didn't know what to do with himself. Until he saw the graffiti. It was on. Of course we could not leave without taking a series of ridiculous pictures with it. How can anyone pass up the opportunity to take awesome pics with graffiti in an alley? It is not possible. Naturally, David and Jason wanted to do karate kicks and jumps down the alley making themselves look tough or something. I think they mainly just wanted awesome pics to laugh at the next day. Mission accomplished.

Free Tommy Bahama shirts? Yahtzee!!

After several karate kicks and ridiculous pictures, we made it to Bernies. This is probably me favorite bar downtown. I LOVE it! They have a huge patio which is always packed in the summer, with awesome furniture, kick ass upstairs bar and bangin' djs. Seriously, the last time I was there, the DJ was reading my mind, no joke. He was dropping the best old school jams and I was belting out every word, I was even surprising myself a lil bit. I was so in love, I had to let them know. I caught them watching me jam to all of their beats a couple times and we did the whole nod and point at eachother across the dance floor while thinking "These beats are killer and we are totally reading eachothers minds right now" look, so when I told them how in love with them I was, it was definitely reciprocated. That is always fun. I will never forget that night. Best DJs on the planet! This Saturday was just as awesome, minus the DJ. We were pretty much the only people upstairs, so we sat at the bar and met our AMAZING bartender who gave us tons of loot! Tommy Bahama shirts for the boys, hats, beanies, flashing bike lights, haha. David and Ja immediately put their new shirts on and did not take them off the rest of the evening. The boys went on a mission and left me at the bar with the bartender. I want her to be my best friend, she was so spectacular. And, her name is Karate, um, hello new friend! That is not her real name, but she said that is what everyone calls her because her real name is super difficult. It was like Karatona or something like that, but I like Karate. The drinks, food, loot, and company were great at Bernies and reminded my once again why I love it so much!

On to the Avenue. It was the most packed I have ever seen it, total crazytown. Jason and I were wearing our flashing bike lights, just in case we lost eachother. Ja and I ended up leaving way earlier than David, only to be awoken by him getting home 4 hours later and telling us ridiculous stories that definitely could have waited until our Snow City pow wow the next morning. I can't get those 20 minutes back, no I cannot. Oh man, what a night. Anchorage, you got owned!

Yahtzee!

2009-01-19T12:02:00.000-08:00

X-Men Origins: Wolverine is coming out in May and look at Hugh Jackman's biceps, 'nuff Said. I looooove X-Men and obviously Hugh as Wolverine, so I am pretty amped about this film!

Thanks, Alaska!

2009-01-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Alaska, you have the most unpredictable, fickle weather on the planet. When I am not freezing my booty off, I am falling on it because you decide it is a good idea to rain and make every inch of the ground an ice rink. Bitch please!! At least we can all still wear our beach attire since it is a sweltering 40 degrees now, am I right?

Would You Come To Oviedo with Me? Done.

2009-01-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

Juan Antonio=hot

In true Anchorage fashion, the Woody Allen film, Vicky Cristina Barcelona was only in theaters for a week. My being constantly slow on the movie uptake, missed it of course. I finally got to watch it last week and can't stop thinking about it. All I can say is, I am in love, with Juan Antonio. This is not a joke.This film was beautifully shot and made me want to go to Spain immediately, if only to find myself a Juan Antonio.

I am obsessed with Woody Allen movies. He is a genius. I think you either hate or love his movies, I definitely LOVE them. The cast consists of Penelope Cruz, ScarJo, and the amazing Javier Bardem. I have been in love with ScarJo (Scarlett Johansson) for quite sometime. Mainly since Lost in Translation, which is one of my favorite movies. She is fantastic. And, she is married to Van Wilder, bonus!! I was never a huge fan of Penelope Cruz. I think her hotness was really overwhelming and honestly, kind of annoying. I never really appreciated her until I saw her with Ben Kinsley in Elegy. Sidenote:I have a big, yet strange, crush on Ben Kinsley. She was fantastic, the movie was fantastic, and I am surprised it was not nominated. ScarJo and Penelope were perfect for this this crazy "love story". ScarJo is magical in Woody Allen films (rent Scoop, it's awesome!!) and I have now come to realize that Penelope can deliver on screen in pretty much any genre. Penelope, I forgive you for dating Tom Cruise, at least you are with Javier now...

Oh Javier Bardem, what to say. Oh lordy. If Woody Allen's sole purpose was to make me and every other woman fall in love with his character, Juan Antonio, he succeeded. Juan Antonio (I better find me a man named Juan Antonio or I will be sorely disappointed in life) is the one man on the planet who has the ability to get any woman to fall in love (or bed) with him just by saying hello, or just looking at them. I have fallen head over heals. His accent is ridiculously hot, his adorable artist outfits are too cute to handle and his "loving" nature is quite entertaining. Strangely, I do not really find him attractive outside of this movie, and he is probably a real d-bag. This movie was fantastic and I will definitely be watching it over and over again.

Also, congrats to the movie! It won Best Picture, Comedy or Musical, at the Golden Globes on Sunday night. I was pleasantly surprised! This was definitely one of my favorite movies of 2008, as well as Slumdog Millionaire, which I will discuss in another post.

Well, I must be going, Juan Antonio and Barcelona are waiting.

Are There Aliens In Your Phone?

2009-01-09T18:33:00.000-08:00

Jason, talking to aliens. No big deal.

I am convinced there are aliens living in Jason's cell phone that only seem to speak when I am talking to him. How do I know what aliens sound like? Um, who doesn't? That is the real question here. Ok, ok, I understand that I have the weirdest ideas going on in my head, but it makes perfect sense to me. Pretty much every time we talk on on the phone, I hear the aliens. I think Jason has caught on to what they sound like now too, or maybe he just plays along with my ridiculousness to make me fell better. The other night they must have been having a huge pow wow in his phone because I could barely hear Jason over them. I almost had to hang up the phone because 1-they were being really loud, 2-I was getting a little freaked out and 3-I was real confused how they could all fit in there, have you seen the size of their heads?! Last week I called David and heard something resembling alien speak. Me: "Are there aliens in your phone, too?" David: "What? Aliens?". Then I heard Jason in the background, "Is that Hannah?". What, you are going to tell me that I am your only friend who believes there are aliens living in your phone, uh huh, right. Man, they know me too well!

So, Jason just informed me, as I was writing this, that he got a new cell phone. Damn him! How am I going to get my alien speak fix now? If only I could get an alien and Sassy in the same place, that would be glorious.

Hellooooo 2009!

2009-01-07T15:00:00.000-08:00

Peter and I!

I realize I am a little late on this, but it's a new year, and I do what I want, when I want. Yeah, that just happened. I do not believe in New Years Resolutions. So, all I can say is 2008 was extremely fantastic and I am looking forward to the changes and excitement that 2009 will bring.

My friend Rebekah was visiting from California over the holidays and was thankfully able to spend alot of time with the Crewnit. We had a New Years Eve party at Colver and Lorna's and it was crazytown, as usual. The night included ridiculous games of Land Mines, Flip Cup and Beer Pong. But, of course, the night would not be complete without a Crewnit bed dog pile, Jason and I eating pretty much all of Colver and Lorna's food, creepsters (you know who I am talking about), and tons of laughing. Apparently we were all in love with pickles that night, because we devoured them from their fridge and managed to capture some ridiculously funny pickle self-pics. The Crewnit blows my mind with awesomeness.

Flip Cup Champs!! This was our version of the "high-five". We were trying to be original.

Of course, there was the usual self-pic marathon. If there is anything the Crewnit dominates at, it is self-pics. If you try to grab the camera from us while taking a self-pic, as to "help get a better shot", you better watch yourself. You are not "helping us" you are creating a less fun picture. We mean business. Self-pics are so much more enjoyable and often include a better story.

Bekah, Lorna, Jason and I. Self-pic!! Notice Jason, talking to Aliens.

New Years Eve was fantastic and I am glad I partied in 2009 with my amazingly spectacular friends! So, here's to 2009, the year that will change my life as I know it. Enjoy the Pics!

Team Sassy.

2009-01-02T13:20:00.001-08:00

So, my Christmas present from Hillary was apparently stuck in Washington for like a week (stupid snow storms), but I finally got it a couple days ago. It was well worth the wait! I am soooo the President of Team Sasquatch. I am so pumped about this shirt, thanks Hill!!

Oh, You Want to Rally MY Car? Ok.

2008-12-31T12:36:00.000-08:00

Jon, Peter and I. My face is literally about to fall off.

I was all set for a lazy Monday evening after work, cleaning up the tornado that is my room from Christmas present domination. That is, until Peter called me to go rallying. "Jon and I are going to go rally my car, you want to come?" Me: "Um, you mean, you want to rally my car?" Peter: "Yes". So off we went. My car never gets rallied unless Peter is in town. He enjoys it waaaay too much that I can't not let him do it! This time was especially fun because the high school parking lot had not been plowed and there was a constant arc of snow over my car every turn we made. Super fun!! Jon had some freak outs in the back seat, I trust Peter.

Since we were doing so good in the parking lot, we decided to venture to Beach Lake Road. First of all, that road is kind of curvy. We approached the turn in for the parking lot we were going to dominate. Peter starts to turn into the lot and we go spinning, real real fast, directly backwards into a snowbank. The best part about it? As soon as we all knew that we came into the corner too fast, we said nothing to each other (That was the first time Jon was not freaking out in the back seat about hitting something). Then as soon as we hit, Peter grabs my arm and very quietly says "It's going to be okay" then jumps out and starts digging my car out. My car is not even a year old, so I was more concerned with damage to my car than anything else.

Jon, trying not to get his "JT" shoes all snowy, while "helping".

Let me just point something else out. I have a fear. When I am outside in the dark (much like Monday night) I get real freaked out that a moose is going to come up behind me, get up on his hind legs and go tap,tap,tap on my shoulder, then knock me out with his hoof. What?!? I know, I don't understand myself half the time. I wasn't thinking about a killer in the woods, or Sassy, I was thinking about a moose doing something completely ridiculous. Who am I right now, geez! So Monday night, I divulged these fears to Jon and Peter as we were sitting in my car in the snowbank. Needless to say, I am pretty sure they think I am a lunatic and they could not stop laughing at me. It didn't help that I was also really curious to know what moose say to eachother when they walk passed one another. So we were making up scenarios for that as well, of course talking in moose voices. I think the cold got to our heads. Hmm.

After standing around in -11 degree weather, my hands and feet were like popsicles and Peter and Jon were not making progress getting the car unstuck. Jon was not really helping, he just sat in the back seat complaining how cold it was while eating popcorn in his "JT" shoes, as he called them. So, I called Jason and asked him to bring his jeep and a tow rope and pull our ass out of this ditch! So, here comes Jason with snow pants, extra snow gear, tow rope and all ready to use his jeep for something productive and awesome. So, we finally got out, and all was good. Pretty fantastic all around. We got to rally and Jason got to use his jeep for the first tow. Saweet!!! Oh, and Happy New Year's Eve!! Live it Up!

Ross Christmas/Star Wars Domination

2008-12-30T08:59:00.000-08:00

The Storm Troopers decided it was a good idea to stop by, instead of Santa. Just joking kiddos, he was Santa's Little Helper!

So, like I have said in pretty much every post, my family rules at pretty much everything. So, of course we totally rule on December 25, aka Ross Christmas Domination.

My nieces are OBSESSED with Star Wars. I think I am the most obsessive person I know, but they mean business and take a close second. They have never seen the movies. No, not even one. But, they know everything you could possibly know about them. The characters, outfits, weapons, you name it. They have SW dictionaries, pillow cases, t-shirts, Storm Trooper helmets. They even asked me to look up the actors who play Anakin and Padme (aka Hayden Christianson and Natalie Portman) just for a visual, they seemed impressed. I'm not gonna lie here, I just used the SW dictionary sitting next to me to look up how to spell Anakin. Yep. Very handy, that book is.

So, it was no surprise when Hill and her fam arrived at my parents house Christmas afternoon, my 8 year old niece, Nina, was wearing a Storm Trooper helmet. Wait, is that what you call those, let me refer to the SW dictionary. Yes, I was correct, a helmet. It was pretty much the funniest think I have ever seen in my life. She walked around like it was always part of her outfit and we should not be surprised to see it. I just about died. Ah, great way to start off the Christmas festivities. Of course we all had to try it on and push all the voice buttons. Made for hilarity and great photo ops!

There she is, our little Storm Trooper!

Before the Storm Troopers arrived, we played a lil yahtzee, got started on our sugar highs, and talked to our grandparents in New York and kick ass cousin, Jeremy, in Arizona! Off to stockings! Stockings have always been our family's favorite part of the Christmas present opening. Seriously, they rule!!! Full socks (everyone is always so stoked to get socks, I love it!) and other fun gifts, they are enough to make me get real excited, real fast! After we all tore through those, it was on to the presents. We all got our dad a pair of snowshoes, since pretty much every pair he had never got returned from borrowing, or we just can't find them (he had like 5 brand new pairs, get a grip people, return what you take, yo!). He was pretty stoked. It is always super fun to watch the kids open their gifts. They are sooo amped to tear through them and get to the next one. At one point, Nina ran across the room and gave me the biggest bear hug of her life because she had just opened my gift, a Star Wars Jedi pillowcase. I thought she was going to hyperventilate she was so amped. Imagine what she will do when she sees the movies!

Family Photo - I realize that Sadie the dog is facing backwards, no need to point that out, mmk?Also, notice all the ladies wearing matching scarves Hill made us, and we got the couch, booya!

In true Ross fashion, we are a little late in taking our Christmas photo (we had been pretty good about getting it done on Thanksgiving in recent years). Much to my disappointment, there are no guns, tractors, or 80s skiwear involved. Can't win 'em all. Sadie is not so photogenic. Try not to get blinded by her reflective Christmas collar. Becca and Amal are our honorary siblings. They are pretty much apart of our family. They didn't get to go home this year, so they celebrated with us, of course, which was great, as usual!

We can't get away from it!

Whenever we are all up at the lake, our parents house is full of people, all the time. Whether it is just our family, or the clusterjam of everyone else we know who lives in the neighborhood. Really. Friday was a shitshow. My friend Steph and her boys came over, Natalie and Bekah, Peter, Kosta, tons of people coming to skate on the lake, it was crazytown, but awesome! We had a massive panini cook off and Steph and I dominated a puzzle for 3 hours, with the help of wine and hot buttered rum, it was glorious. All the fam was gone by Saturday morning and it was just me, my bro Ben, and my parents, in our pjs, all day. I'm not joking. We watched Doc Hollywood, Big Break (golf show) and lounged around. It was the best day, ever.

This years Ross Christmas/Star Wars Domination was so spectacular! I am so thankful to have such a fabulous family that is so close and loves each other like nobody's business. Seriously, thanks family and friends for such a fantastic Christmas and all the fabulous gifts!!! I hope you all had a great holiday as well!!

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas...

2008-12-24T11:11:00.000-08:00

Well, it is almost here!!! Just hear those sleigh bells jingling ring ting tingling too... (do they really sing tingling?) I am finally beginning to get excited about Christmas, thank God, seeing as how it is tomorrow. I guess as I get older I don't get into it as much. I just feel like all I am doing is spending oodles of money. 'Tis the season!

I am heading out to my parents house for the long 4 day weekend of Ross Christmas Domination. I am pretty stoked for that. You can bet your ass that I plan on eating, drinking, and board gaming it up ALOT this weekend. I will share pics next week!

I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas with your friends and families!!!!

Step By Step, Ooh Baby...

2008-12-22T11:40:00.000-08:00

BAD ASS!!!!!!!!!

Yeah Boy! The 90s rocked it, soooo hard! I love early 90s music. With Milly Vanilli, Boyz II Men, Vanilla Ice, En Vogue, John Secada, New Kids on the Block, Paula Abdul, and PM Dawn leading the pack, how could you possibly not agree?

John Secada was the man. Is it wrong that I still love him? Maybe, but do I care? No. I stumbled upon his cd when I moved a couple years ago. I FREAKED out. You bet I popped that bitch in my cd player and sang along at the top of my lungs. God, seriously. L.o.v.e him!

Paula Abdul, where do I begin? She was the ultimate dance/singing queen. I wanted to be her soooo bad. We would push all the furniture to one side of the living room and make up full routines to all of our favorite Paula hits. We were very good at choreography. I am pretty sure she wanted us to be her back up dancers, until she realized how much better than her we were at dancing, she was a diva. Many of my memories are of Paula Abdul dance routines. Oh, flashback, remember that video with the Cheetos Cheetah look alike, hahaha. Love her!

Boyz II Men ruuuuuule. They will always be fantastic. I had the pleasure of seeing them about 4 years ago when they were in Anchorage. I went to the after party and totally danced right next to them, so basically with them. It was hilarious!!!!!!!!!! I felt like I was back in time. They looked exactly the same as when I was 10 and acted a fool with the ladies. Hmm, d-bags.

Oh no, here we go, on to the best of the best of 90s music. New Kids on the Block. I think I peed myself, and maybe shed a few tears, when I heard they re-joined and were going on tour. I am really really regretting not seeing them! Damn! I had gotten over it and now I am all upset again. Ugh. They were the ultimate boy band (although, BSB pretty much rules). Putting out a Christmas album? Honestly, genius move boys! Did they really think that just because they are older, I would not fall in love with them all over again? Let's be real here, they are NKOTB, I will always love them. Plus they are hotter now.

PM Dawn is straight fantastic. If you have not heard them, it is not too late. They are sooo awesome!! En Vogue took music to a whole new level for me. I always kind of felt like a rebel listening to them. I am pretty sure my sisters and I jammed to them, constantly. Hold up, wait a minute, I think my sisters and I could have formed a girl dance group, we had that shit down! Girls, pack up the kids, we are goin on tour. Look out America, we are bringin our living room floor to a stage near you, bitches!!

That Tire Won't Pump Itself

2008-12-17T16:01:00.000-08:00

My family is always giving me crap about how I don't really know how to do much. I don't really bake or cook (I can, but never really got into it), I don't know how to change a tire, check my oil, or drive a stick shift. My sisters say I always got away with not doing too much physical labor, or anything else. Haha, sorry guys, I was the baby!

Last week, I went out to my car to go to work. My tire was flat. Alright, no biggie, I will just see if I can make it to Tesoro and pump it up, then take it to get fixed at Johnson's. Stupid idea. Seriously, "hello, you will ruin your rim, bitch!" This is what I was telling myself when I got about 100 feet down the road and it was not going so well. So, I went back to my house and had to wake Hill up to tell me where Dan (my bro in-law) keeps his compressor. (Sidenote: My tire had a slow leak for a couple weeks at this point, and this had happened before, but Dan was there to blow up my tire and all was good.) So, the little one wasn't working, so we tried the medium, no change, at this point about 1.5 hours had passed, so we tried the big kahuna. Nothing. Nada. My tire was flat as a pancake. Yes, Dan has 3 compressors, different sizes no less. Hill had to go be a mom and I was starting to have a breakdown. I was already almost 2 hours late for work and now was going to have to pay over $100 to have someone come fix my tire. It was at this moment that I was soooo mad. Not at my tire, or myself for not getting it fixed earlier, nooo. In typical Hannah fashion, I was mad at my dad for living 30 miles away and not being there all the time when I needed him, especially when I was in crisis mode! I do realize I could have saved alot of time and money by changing my own tire. Right. Hell if I know how! I was never shown how and if you know me, you know that it would have been way worse for me to try to change the tire, then just pay the damn money to get it fixed. I get frustrated real easy. So, while I was waiting for the mobile tire fixer guy to come, I proceeded to cry into my wee pilla and have a major breakdown. Ugh, I have got to get a grip!

Needless to say, I have got alot of learning to do. I am pretty sure I have to call my dad every time I feel the need to check my oil. "Okay, remind me how to do this again." I am sure he is like, Hannah you are 25 years old and my daughter. And I am a bear that climbs mountains for a living, how do you not know how to do this. But, my dad is very gracious with me.

Believe it or not, I consider myself to be pretty independent. So, I guess I should learn how to do some of this stuff. Or, I could just have someone on call, besides my dad, who can take care of the "manly tasks" for me. Yeah right, not if they knew who they were dealing with. Am I right?

Who Brought Sexy Back? This Guy!

2008-12-15T16:21:00.000-08:00

Are you kidding me with this picture?

Oh snap! I have waited too long to post about JT, so here we go. JT (Justin Timberlake) is fanfrikintastic! You have no idea how incredible this kid is until you see him in concert. Done and done. Oh yeah, you read that right. Amy and I saw JT during his SexyBack Tour 2007 in Tacoma. It Blew.My.Mind. For real, how can one person be so fantastic? He is funny, hot, can dance like a mofo and has bumpin tunes. He is real talented. I'm not talkin corn row wearing, N'sync dancin', Britney's boyfriend days, I'm talkin' like Cry Me a River, "Beep in a Box", Jessica Biel, and Sexy Back days! Cry Me A River and What Goes Around Comes Around (have you seen that video? H.O.T.) are only two of the greatest songs of all time, as well as every song on his FutureSex/LoveSounds album. Also, he has his own clothing line (William Rast) and I am pretty sure he is a Packers fan, yahtzee! I feel like I cannot stop talking about him. He brought it back no doubt! (Although, I was never really clear on where it went in the first place.) He is pretty much the male Victoria Beckham. And we all know how I love my Vicky B. My perfect dinner date would be with the two of them. I like to think that they are best friends and sit around commenting on how hot the other one is, while wearing their own designer jeans, and giggling like school girls. I can totally see that playing out in my head right now. Precious.

Have you seen him on SNL, or any interview? That boy is hi-larious!!! He is so quick witted and clever, like when he hosted the Espys, hellooooo Mr. Funnyman. That boy seems to be pretty athletic too, he loves him some golf!I feel like his good qualities never seem to stop! If I told you that a singer/songwriter could sing, dance, be funny, and act, you would be like, um... did you see Britney Spears in Crossroads (yes, I own it, that is another story), singers cannot act worth crap. Wrong. Mr. JT can act like nobody's business. Black Snake Moan- he was fantastic. Alpha Dog - I was sooooo impressed with him, seriously, he was phenomenal. So, I guess JT is not a member of the signers who can't act club. Although, I have not seen the Love Guru, and I am scared to, it looks really bad and I would like to keep my good impression of JT, thanks. Whoopsie, almost forgot about Mickey Mouse Club. He was young, I'll let that one slide.

I know many of you are like, why the beep is she listening to Justin Timberlake, she is 25 and he is totally ridiculous, 13 year olds cry over him. Well, why don't you take a listen to FutreSex/LoveSounds, maybe even have a little jam session to it while getting ready to go clubbing (Amy), then you will understand why he is so magnificent. Until then, lock it up!

Good Luck Having Kids

2008-12-11T12:27:00.000-08:00

Sassy faces courtesy of Aunt Hannah. I do what I can.
(Eleni, Nina and Lucy)

The other day, my 8 year old niece slipped me a piece of paper. On it read (exactly how she wrote it):

"I dont think youl marry. Good luck on having kids."

My nieces are pretty in tune to what is going on with me. Well, for a 8, 6 and 4 year old. They tell me they want more cousins and another uncle, but I don't give in. They always ask why I don't have a boyfriend, just alot of good guy friends. I tell them the truth. No time, boys are stupid, they ruined my life, but they are cute. This stuff can get confusing when explaining it to kids, ugh.

I think Hill will agree that I pass on a little too much sass. I talk to them as if we were all in high school sitting on the bleachers at a football game, with valley accents, and using ridiculous language like holla, bizzounce, and making up awesome secret handshakes. That is why they love me. Hill is constantly laughing and rolling her eyes at me when I talk to them. Wonder where they get their sass? Right here.

But, if Hillary and Kim's children are any indication of how adorable my kids would be, why wouldn't I have kids, right? Wrong. I don't think the idea of having the cutest Baby Gap models on the planet (you know I would) is reason enough to have children. Or is it? hmm.

Bears. Beets. Battlestar Galactica.

2008-12-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

"I want to clamp Michael's face in a George Foreman Grill."

Jim Halpert, where do I begin? He is adorable in every sense of the word and I would marry him as soon as he said hello to me. He is funny as hell and too cute to handle. Look at that face! That smile and the "Jim look" get me everytime, you know what I am talking about. His real name is John Krasinski and he plays Jim Halpert on one of the funniest shows ever, The Office (I am sure you all watch it and love it as much as I do). I would much rather call him Jim, because that means that him and Pam are really together, and I like it that way. Bonus, he is friends with one of my favorite actors of all time, Jason Bateman.

How cute are Jim and Pam? Way too cute to participate! Amy and I ooh and ah every time we watch the show. We are pathetic, I think David and Jason get a little disgusted with us. Pam is the only person I would approve of him being with, aside from me or Amy of course. They are the cutest couple, on the planet!

I just watched a video of singer Aimee Mann singing "Winter Wonderland" at her Christmas concert and who pops up on stage next to her and starts singing? Jim, sporting the cutest plaid shirt no less (I am a huge sucker for plaid shirts, can you say lumberjack?). He was just singing his little heart out. Soooo cute right now, I just want to hug him. Ah Jim. I really do believe that he acts like Jim in real life, witty, adorable, super sarcastic. They are the same person, they just have to be.

I bought Amy and I these "I heart Jim" coffee mugs that rule! I did not know what to do with myself when I saw the mug, I was so stoked, and I am pretty sure Amy felt the same way. They are extra awesome. I do realize that me telling you about our mugs is super ridiculous and might be alot for some of you to handle, but get over it! John/Jim/whatever I feel like calling you, you have an open invitation to join our Crewnit anytime you want. You would fit in perfectly, just saying. Oh, and to make myself clear, I would be Jim's receptionist any day of week. Amy, we can share a desk.

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2008-12-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

Tell a little story Mr. Bones, a funny little story Mr. Bones.
(I'm obsessed with White Christmas, duh!)

The Salvation Army bells are ringing, the Christmas songs are bombarding our radio stations, and angels are earning their wings (I HATE It's a Wonderful Life, fyi!). I love Christmas time. But to me, there is a window of Christmas cheer. You should not be allowed to buy Christmas presents until at least Black Friday and I really don't like putting up Christmas decorations until about 2 weeks before Christmas. If you do it too early, I feel like it really takes away from the whole spirit of Christmas, the whole whirlwind of it all. We just took down fall decorations for craps sake! I bought a couple gifts already this year and have bought alot of new decorations that I am excited to put up. The issue is a tree. I really want a Charlie Brown Christmas tree, pink, blue, or some other random color. How fun would that be? I don't have a lot of living space to put one, so I really need to think this tree business over.

I love Christmas music! My favorite is Harry Connick, Jr.'s first Christmas album. Helloooo Harry! I love him, obvs. Have you heard his voice? Or seen his face? How can you not love that guy. He is the epitome of precious. I could listen to that album all year round, for real. It really gets me in the spirit! I am pretty sure that we listen to it like a million times around Christmas at my mom's house. I need to get that cd in my player, right now!

Another thing my family rules at, watching and loving Christmas movies. Our faves are White Christmas (I am obsessed with it), National Lampoons Christmas, and A Christmas Story (that leg lamp gets me every time!) I cannot handle how awesome White Christmas is. It is probably in my top 10 if not top 5 favorite movies of all time. Bing, Danny, Rosemary? What more could you ask for. Sisters, sisters, there were never such devoted sisters... You know you know what I am singing right now.

I love Christmas time. I really need to get my on the ball with my present shopping though. I am so stoked for Christmas at the lake this year, it is going to be a blast! You can bet we will be playing Taboo again, just saying, we love that game! This whole season is such a whirlwind. Before you know it, it's 2009 and what do you have to show for it. Yeah, think about that!

80s Skiwear? You Betcha!

2008-12-03T01:43:00.000-08:00

So here I am sipping a mondo ass glass o' wine with my sister after getting home from work at 11:45p (I can't stop myself, you should see the mountains of paperwork on my desk!!) and realized that we are totally ridiculous. Seriously, some of the things that come out of our mouths are straight retarded. We just spent about 20 minutes trying to figure out the best family Christmas photo to take this year. We are trying to take it this weekend and really don't want to take it on the lake this year, again. Don't get me wrong, we love the lake, but it really washes our skin tone out, real bad, and we have done it for the past 2 or 3 years. We ran through the whole gamut of choices. Here are some examples: all dress up as our favorite superheroes, Star Wars characters (I loved that idea), awesome 80s ski outfits (also loved this one, I LOVE the 80s), climb a mountain and take a scenery shot (yeah right, that is outrageous, seeing as how it is -50 degrees outside), sitting in front of a fireplace (not exciting enough), Musk Ox Farm, Reindeer Farm with someone dressed up as Santa (that is totally not our family, at all, but would be hi-larious!) yada yada. You get what I am throwing at you. Finally, we came up with the best idea! Action shots in a collage picture format!! I don't want to give it away, but guns, tractors and skiis are involved. I really hope this photo comes together, because it is going to be epic!!! I think I might have to sneak in some 80s wear for my photo block, I have to represent!

My Boy in Green and Yellow

2008-12-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

Seriously Brett, get off my field.

Today my boy, Aaron Rodgers, turns 25. Booya!! I guess he is younger than me, crazytown!! He sure looks older, whatevs. (PS. In case you did not realize, I am a real big Packers fan, and Rodgers is their QB, the one on the left--you better have known that!)

The Pack may not be having their best season, but Rodgers really stepped up to the plate with "Mr. Football" (Brett Favre, the love of my life) being ridiculously wishy washy. I was really amped this season to see him do what he do as quarterback, he has been in Favre's shadow long enough. It can't be easy filling those shoes. He can chuck that ball like nobody's business (but, I think you should try and take the interception passes down a notch, pal) But, he is doing his job, and he is carrying the team well. The team does need to step it up a notch, but I already told them that, and they agreed. He is impressing me all around and a total bad ass. Bonus, I find him pretty attractive. Happy Birthday! (I am doing a beat-box rap version of Happy Birthday at my desk for him right now. I know he can hear me!)

GO PACK GO!!!

Spice Up Your Life

2008-12-01T15:04:00.000-08:00

I am fabulous, yes I am.

I am just going to say it. I love Victoria Beckham. The robot?!?! Yes. Posh Spice, Robot, Vicky B. same thing. She is fabulous. The reason why I think she is fabulous is because she is hilarious, is a former Spice Girl, looks hot all the time, her husband is the epitome of London hottness, and her kids are the cutest munchkins on the planet (next to your kids Kim and Hill, of course). I mean really, her 3 year old brake dances, come on, you cannot deny that is hilariously adorable, am I right? Every interview I have ever seen her do I laugh my butt off! She is real witty. I am pretty sure there is a good chance we are going to become best friends. I feel like I have alot of potential besties out there in celebland, I need to get on it! Her only downside, she is friends with Tomkat. They are real stupid, she is not, she needs to stay away from them.

The Spice Girls are only the best 90s girl/dance band of all time. Okay, not all time, but they were real addicting. I could not stop listening to them and I am pretty sure I watched Spice World more than once, and liked it! Also, her clothing line, dVb is hot. I know this because Amy has a pair of her jeans with pink crowns on the back pockets and they rule. And, she is so stylish herself, how can her clothing line not be? She would not let it be awful.

Being married to David Beckham has got to be difficult. She must hate staring at him all day. they have adorable kids that he spends most his time with, he is super hot, is married to Vicky B., and I think he must be pretty good at soccer. I don't follow that sport, but have noticed that Becks likes to take his shirt off at games alot, maybe that is why LA signed him. Hmmmm. Although, I am not a fan of his voice, have you heard that thing? I am so confused every time I hear it. Is that squeaky weird animal sounding voice coming out of that hot face?

Hi, we are the cutest family on the planet, nice to meet you.

She is super adorable, stylish and fantastic, I just don't know how she can look so damn good all the time! Man, I love this girl. Also, I think that she does smile alot, I really do. She is no damn robot! And remember, Spice up your life, every boy and every girl, spice up your life. (I know you can hear the song in your head, don't deny it!)

Turkey Day aka Board Game Domination!!!

2008-12-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

I love Thanksgiving! I'm pretty sure I like it more than Christmas. My whole family spends the weekend at our parents house on Reed Lake near Hatchers Pass, pretty much the most spectacular place on earth. Our family rules at Thanksgiving. We can eat and drink just like everyone else. But most of all, we can play board games better than any family I know. Our family and my uncle's family used to spend Thanksgiving together and play games for hours after dinner, aka Ross/Lourie Board Game Domination. They moved to the east coast a few years back and it has not been the same since. If you saw us in action, you would be floored. Lis and I were major telepathic, seriously. We pretty much rule at everything we do together, but games take the cake.

This year, the Johnson's (Bruce, Monica, Eric and Jason) joined us for dessert and Taboo after skating on the lake. They have a cabin right next to my parents house- fun!! We had been waiting all day to play Taboo. Years ago we realized that we dominate at board games because we are telepathic and we constantly laugh at eachother, so it's double the awesome. Example: This summer while playing Taboo, I gave the clue "Swiss Family Robinson" my mom said Ostrich. She was right. Really??? Who would say that, of all the things to say. This time was no different, there were many debacles that made for tons of hilarity: 1) Bruce thinking Taboo was pretty much charades, acting out every clue, he was wrong. We let him go with it because it was hilarious. Bruce was on my team and at one point, all I said was, "I don't want to point to that". Bruce said belly button. I have no idea where that came from, but he was right. 3) My nephew Jonas (2years) was bawling before we started playing. We were all asking him what was wrong and he blubbered out "TABOO". I guess someone told him he couldn't play and that made him real upset. Apparently everyone wants to get in on the action. 4)After realizing that the word he was supposed to describe was Sigmund Freud, not Siegfried and Roy, and saying clues like, "rhymes with shmaken" for bacon, Eric quickly became a Taboo favorite.

Friday, many turkey comas later, we went skiing and skating on the lake and ate more turkey, of course. I was house/kid sitting this weekend as well, so I brought the kids to the lake on Saturday, where it proceeded to snow about a foot. I am pretty sure they each went through 2 pairs of snow pants and about 3 pairs of gloves because is was so wet outside. Needless to say, I was exhausted after being a nanny for 2 days. I had a great time with those kids, and I love my nephew and nieces, but I am pretty sure it will be a disaster if I ever have kids, let that be known.

My family is so fantastic. We have the capability of laughing at each other all the time. We get really loud and really annoying I am sure, but you cannot stop us when we start laughing. We definitely know how to have a good time. My dad just sits there and rolls his eyes half the time. He is surrounded by cackling women alot, I am sure that gets old. We are all really close, but of course we get real annoyed with eachother sometimes, that's what families are for right? Thanksgiving is such a awesome family holiday!! I hope you all had a wicked good time with your loved ones this weekend!! I love Thanksgiving!!

My Friend, Sassy

2008-11-24T11:32:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would share a little known fact about me (keep in mind, I am not crazy). I love Sassy (aka Sasquatch aka Harry of Harry and the Hendersons aka Bigfoot). Whiggity What you say?? Yes, it is the craziest legend I have ever heard but I totally believe that Sassy is out there. One day, I am going to find him. Actually, probably not. That sounds real scary and I would probably pee my pants, then pass out, then Sassy would take me to his cave to join his Sassy family and I would be lost forever. By some miracle if I did escape, no one would believe me and it would be super embarrassing, and I really don't need that right now. But on the other hand, Sassy could become a great friend, how do I know if he is dangerous? Although, I'm pretty sure he speaks some crazy form of mountain man English with a little bit of chewbacca speak mixed in, so there that is. Sassy, it would really help me out if you just showed yourself in public once and a while, ok? I could use some back up here!! Until that day, I will just keep on believing in Sassy from a distance. Seriously, he rules. FYI, if you ever want to get me something spectacular, get me a sign like this one or a kick ass Sassy shirt. Better yet, bring me Sassy. Can you imagine? A-mazing!

Before I'm Old and Lazy

2008-11-21T11:54:00.000-08:00

There are a few things I would really like to do within the next 5-10 years (most likely sooner). It's not that I think I will be married and have kids by that time, or ever, but I just want to do them before I make up too many more excuses not to.

NASCAR: I am strangely intrigued by the massive redneck crowds and ridiculous amounts of driving in a circle. I have never really watched it, but I think that the experience of watching it live would be unforgettable. I can picture myself getting really into the whole thing. There is no other way, I will have to totally immerse myself. Don't be surprised if I come out of there wearing a Nascar baby doll tee that is obviously too small (cause we all know that is so attractive) and a Nascar visor. Hmm, that should be interesting. I only make myself aware of the important things about Nascar: Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Kasey Kahne, and Carl Edwards. And from the looks of them, I think Nascar and I are going to become great friends. Hot damn! And just so we are clear, I expect to see nothing less than Carl Edwards flailing guns around at the winners podium. That would be the best day of my life. I would most likely marry him on the spot.

Kentucky Derby: I have been to Kentucky twice and it is definitely one of my least favorite places to visit. It was not my cup o' tea at all. Thank God I was with amazing friends both times, otherwise I would not have survived the alcohol free counties and ghost towns. I have never been to a horse race, but I think it would be a blast. To me, the Kentucky Derby screams old time elegance. It looks super classy and I get to wear a crazy ass hat. I love hats! I hear stupid celebrities like Jessica Simpson like to attend. If she is there, I will wrestle her to the ground for three reasons: 1. Wearing that stupid pink Tony Romo jersey, 2. Chicken of the Sea. Really? and 3. There is no way she is stealing my hat thunder! FYI, I want that hat on my head right now, it is sooo me!

NFL Game: I cannot believe that I have never been to an NFL game. With all the traveling I do, it is ridiculous that I have not squeezed one in. I think this will be first on my list to accomplish, and I think I can do it within the next year. The Packers are my number 1 team and I would LOVE to see them play. I would also like to see the Patriots and Steelers, (my #2 and #3 teams). I love me some football... Quarterbacks. Exhibit A, Aaron Rodgers. Packers quarterback and token bad ass. My hero. Thanks for letting him show us what he got, Brett!

Europe: I know everyone dreams of going to Europe, but I am going to do it! I was really hoping to take ridiculous pictures with the Buckingham Palace Guards and try to get them to crack a smile. I would even settle for the stink eye, but apparently they don't mess around. I will most likely get stabbed if I even wink at them. My wish is to be over there for about 3 weeks next summer, but I am not sure I can swing that. I want to see Greece, England, France, Ireland, Scotland and Italy among many other places. But, I would really love to go to Denmark. Ever since I did a school project on Denmark in 6th grade, I have wanted to go there really bad. I want to take it all in. I am pretty certain I will become obsessed with Europe and want to move there.

I think I have a really good chance of seeing all these within the next 2 years, that would be spectacular!! There are many more things I would like to see and do in the next 5-10 years, but I will space them out in my posts. Don't want to get too overloaded here. I know the list will keep building. I can't wait to have pictures of my own to post from these events, but it will be awhile!!

Sexiest Man Alive? Absolutely.

2008-11-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

Today, People magazine unveiled it's annual Sexiest Man Alive issue. Who is the winner? Hugh Jackman. Now that is what I am talking about! (Take that Brad Pitt!) Not only is he hot, but I think that everyone can appreciate that he is a fantastic actor. I cannot wait to see Australia. Sorry to digress from the fabulousness that is my life (want to know a secret? it's not really that fabulous), but I must discuss what most of you know is my guilty pleasure, celebrity gossip. I totally eat that stuff up! I am not that gullible people, I know the majority of it is not true. Is it embarrassing? Of course, but ask me anything about a celebrity and I will probably have your answer. Is any of it useful information? No.

Hugh Jackman aka Wolverine has long been one of my faves. He is hot, no doubt about it. Even with blades coming out of his hands and those ridiculous chops, I love the man. Two movies that made me love him even more: Scoop and The Prestige. Scoop is hilarious! With ScarJo and Woody Allen in the mix, this movie was destined to be great. I love all three of them. He has great comedic and dramatic skills. Quite a charmer you are Hugh. The Prestige is phenomenal. I am not a fan of magic, at all, and was a little frightened by the idea of this movie. Several months back, Jason made me watch it and it blew my mind. The quote on the front of the dvd case read "You want to see it again the second it's over". I was so intrigued by this movie. And, it had my other faves Christian Bale and ScarJo, so it was extra awesome! I could not keep my eyes off of it and indeed, I wanted to watch it again as soon as it was over.

So, there is your little manjoyment for the day. I apologize to my guy friends out there for this post, but did you really think I could go this long without posting about celebrities, and hot ones to boot? I didn't think so.

Music on My Mind

2008-11-18T12:26:00.000-08:00

I have been listening to some really great music lately and have to share!! I am obsessed with music, concerts, and anything involving them. Most of my travel involves a concert/show, and I would not have it any other way. Seeing a band live is like no other. It is such a happy, emotional, spectacular time. Especially when you are in love with the band! For me, it becomes quite the emotional experience and I get really nervous before each show, like I am the one performing or something. Really, I feel like I am going to vomit. I am usually speechless through the first couple songs, then I chill out and take it all in. Obviously, concerts take over my mind, but it is sooo awesome! Just writing about this is getting me all fired up!!

On to the music.

Bruce Springsteen, album - The Ghost of Tom Joad: phenomenal. This album is from 1995. I am a big Bruce fan, but this is like nothing I have ever heard from him. It is super mellow and really showcases that he is a very talented artist, he doesn't only sing Born to Run. I first heard it when I was babysitting for some neighbors, at least 5 years ago. Every time I went to their house I would put it on. I'm pretty sure the kids got really sick of hearing it. But, it was either that or steal it, and that was not going to to happen. I had a really hard time finding the album until I was in AZ last week and Noah and Jeremy took me to a record store. Yahtzee! I got it used for $7. Perfect all around. I think this album really deserves a listen and it might even change the way you feel about his music.

Little Joy, self titled first album: They make me smile! Look at them, a-dorable! I want to join their group!! With Fabrizio Moretti (aka the love of my life and the drummer for The Strokes) writing the majority of their tunes and the fantastic voices of Rodgrio Amarante (Los Hermanos) and Bikini Shapiro, I am completely drawn in. The soft voice of Bikini sounds effortless and warms your heart. Oh Fabrizzio, how I love you. He is a instrumental genius and is a great song writer. Rodrigo's strong sound gives the album what it needs and makes you feel like he is smiling the whole time he is singing. They all do their part instrumentally and don't mess around. You can tell they are doing this because they love it, and that is what it is all about! They have a touch of South American sound with happy beach sound mixed in. They finished their album living in a house together in CA and their name is after a cocktail lounge down the street. How awesome are they?? This group oozes with life and love and I am totally addicted. (FYI, Fabrizio is on the right)

Lykki Li, album - Youth Novels: Hailing from Sweden, this gal is blowing my mind. She is the definition of precious pop and is very talented. The album is not necessarily poppy, but it is different. She has her own style and I like that. One song in particular with her speaking and a trumpet playing, gets me every time, I could listen to that over and over all day long(FYI, I have a thing for the trumpet sound). Every song is enjoyable. She draws you in because she is not the norm, she has heart, she has desire, she is creative, she is unique and makes it sound so effortless. Something about her voice and her music is just mesmerizing. Honestly, I think we could be best friends if we met. I'm just saying.

Bon Iver, album- For Emma, Forever Ago: I am listening to their cd as I write this, it makes me sooooo happy and sad at the same time. I randomly found this album at Barnes and Noble months ago and have not stopped listening to it. I feel like no music has ever touched me as this cd has. I know that sounds extreme, but really, it is amazing, I almost do not know how to describe it. You can feel the emotion in every song. Justin Vernon went to the woods a distraught heart broken man and came out three months later with a phenomenal record that you can't stop listening to. I will take a break from this album every couple days. But, I always go back. With his flawless voice, Justin has created a genius album that is extremely cohesive and mellow, an album that only heartbreak could produce. I hope that I have the pleasure of seeing them live one day, in a really small intimate venue, that would be so perfect!

Let me know if you listen to any of these albums or artists. I am curious to see what other people think. My mind is obviously blown, but that does not mean much to anyone else. Happy listening!!

Clooney and Nascar

2008-11-14T16:29:00.000-08:00

When I was little, I was obsessed with playing "office", I think I may have even liked it more than "grocery store" (which I was a HUGE fan of). I had all the necessities: a phone, business cards, checks, invoices, etc. I would sit at my "desk" (which was one of those kid wooden tables with the cute little chairs) for hours and just go to town. I would be the boss (of course) and employee. Apparently this was a one man office. Now that I think about it, I don't think I played with many friends when I was little (like pre-10 years old), hmm. I had a few that I played with often, and that was about it. I do know I was really shy, maybe that was it. Family, you may need to fill me in on this, seriously, I have a very sporadic memory when it comes to my childhood. Like, Hillary, are you sure we grew up in the same house, all I remember is going to your thousands of sporting events when you were it high school, haha. Strangely, I seem to remember everything else in my life, really! It is kind of annoying how observant I am, it can be pretty embarrassing. Okay, that was a way off subject, back to the point.

My destiny: to work in an office. WHAT?!?!?! No teaching, being Dr. Ross (aka a doctor AND the wife of George Clooney from ER-- I would not have to change my name, and I would be married to George, YAHTZEE!!), or driving Nascar for life? Damn! I was banking on Nascar.

Ok, ok, I do like the office life. I love paperwork, it makes me feel accomplished. I can see what I have to get done, and watch my pile of papers dwindle. But, it is really overwhelming too. Like, do I really need 5, 6 inch stacks of paper on my desk at time, just waiting to be dealt with, probably not. I have got to do something to stop these paper storm troopers from invading my desk, I cannot take it anymore! Whoo, One task at a time, one task at a time...

When I feel like adding one more piece of paper to the multiple stacks will make it tumble, I use post-its. Who am I kidding, I don't need an excuse to use a post-it. I can doodle all damn day on those things, they are magical. I literally have at least 100 used all over my desk and up the sides of my desk at any given time. It is like a fruit salad up in here. Don't judge. When I am done with the one little thing written on that post-it, I just shred it, then there is space for another. Making room for my friends, that is all I am doing here, don't worry about it.

I have worked in the same office for 7 years now and I still enjoy it. I like the client interaction. I like the computer work, paperwork, meetings, court, seminars, meet and greets. I love it all. The clients depend on me, my boss depends on me, pretty much everyone depends on me. But who do I depend on? Who am I supposed to go to for all the answers? I seem to have them for everyone else. The legal world is a crazy one, no joke. But, it challenges me everyday and it is a constant learning experience. I imagine I will be working in this field for a very long time. So, I think I am going to need a truck load of post-its. I like all colors, not just yellow. Keep that in mind.

I'm Baaaack!!!

2008-11-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

Well, obviously, I am back in Alaska. All I can say is: Really?

Alaska, do you have to snow right before I get off the plane so that my cute warm weather slip-ons get all wet? Or, make people behave like idiots around the airport, practically driving right up to the door for their traveler who cannot walk 10 extra feet to them, only to block my ass form getting to my ride? Come on! Alaska has no mercy.

Needless to say, Arizona blew my mind! I had so much fun and cannot wait to go back! Mexican food, beautiful weather and scenery, awesome people! Like I said in a previous post, my cousins rule, 'nuf said. I also finally got to meet my cousin Noah's fiance, Jeanine, who is pretty spectacular! (I plan on returning to AZ for their wedding in May). We took a trip to Flagstaff to visit my friends from AK, Ashley and Matt. Oh man, much fun was to be had in Flagstaff. Drinks aplenty. We also indulged in The Wine Loft where you can play board games while drinking wine, all the while looking really sophisticated. Um, can you look sophisticated while playing Life? Maybe Shoots and Ladders, but Life? The evening was fantastic and it was great to see Matt and Ashley!

Jeremy's birthday was on Monday. Him, Noah and I went to a really cool record store where I scored a $5 Bjork cd that I used to jam to all the time in the 90s, yes I said the 90s. If you don't know her, get on it!! She is kind of a kook, but I love her eclectic sound. With the rest of the crew in tow, we ventured to Tempe to a sweet Irish Pub our cousin Nate used to work at. Their mac and cheese was fab. Then it happened, one of the most horrible experiences of my life:The Clubhouse. Not only was it the worst venue on the planet, but the bands most definitely did not rule. We saw 2 bands, Local H and the absolute worst band of all time (I have no reason to store their name in my brain). The lead singer was wearing a cape for the first two songs, uh, yeah, I don't joke about capes. I was so embarrassed to even be listening to them. I'm pretty sure I vomited in my mouth a lil, they were that awful. And, they were hell bent on trying to talk politics/the election before every other song, I wanted to punch them all in the face. Um hi, the election is over, lock it up and sing, or don't. We ended the night on a music disaster that we laughed about the rest of my trip. Jeremy seemed to enjoy his big day, and we all had a really good time just hanging out. I was glad to be there to celebrate with him. It was such a chill, and amazingly fun trip and I loved every minute!

I was sad to leave, and even more sad to be back at work today (on 2 hours of sleep) were it looks like a bomb went off while I was gone. Ugh. Back to my Quarter Life Crisis...

Hey DJ Keep Playin That Song

2008-11-12T17:55:00.000-08:00

The definition of a fantastic dj: ?uestlove. David and I went to the Buckaroo aka the Buck for Mara's going away shindig. PS, Mara, not so happy you are gone! We then headed to our favorite downtown eatery/lounge/heaven, Crush. If you are unfamiliar, it is a wine bar, and it is fantastic. I have been at least 5 times since they opened this summer and every time I go I am so happy to just be there. Amazing wine, food, service and atmosphere. If you want the best mac and cheese around, Crush has it. And their flights, oh man, the Pino Noir and Malbec are out of this world. Ok, obviously wine and I have a very good relationship.

Now on to the ?uestlove show, also known as the best dance party of all time. David and I got their a little after 10 and Amy met up with us. I also ran into my friend Jed, always fantastic to see him!! ?uestlove came on after an opening dj (who was also spectacular). Who knew a dj could open for a dj, not me. The next 3 and a half hours were dominated by crazy fun dancing. We were as close to the dj table as you could be, without being on top of it. He can spin beats like nobody's business, and good beats, old school beats. He did his thing and it blew my mind. The place went to a new level of crazytown. The crowd seemed pretty random, but totally my kind of gig. I was sad to miss The Roots show on Friday, but glad I got to see ?uestlove do what he do.

I had to be at the airport by at least 6:30 the next morning. I went to bed at 3, woke up at 4:30 for my flight. Needless to say, I slept sound as could be on my journey to Arizona! Seeing ?uestlove was worth the lack of sleep.

Alaska, Warmth and You Do Not Mix

2008-11-06T11:54:00.000-08:00

Alaska, you are too damn cold! For real, you should think about warming up about 15 degrees, people might like you more.

I have had it, so I am going to Arizona to visit my cousins Jeremy and Noah and see my friends Matt and Ashley from Alaska. It is Jeremy's birthday on Monday so there is tons o' fun to be had. Our family pretty much dominates at everything, birthday parties being one of them, so I expect nothing less than drinks and food aplenty and much hilarity to ensue. Needless to say, I am stoked for the whole weekend. My cousins rule, so... what else is there to say about that? They rule.

Honestly, I am wicked stoked just to chill in the sun wearing my flip flops while finishing my book Are you there Vodka, It's Me Chelsea (yes, it is a fantastically hilarious book) in the hot Arizona sun. I have really been moving slow as a turtle finishing that book, what is my deal? But, I am bringing some extras to read as well. I think I am going to start Choke or any of the other million books that I am obsessed with buying and let accumulate mounds of dust on my bookshelf. It is an addiction. Don't you worry. This is not going to be a reading marathon vacation, I'm bringing them along just in case, and to read at the airport. I have way better things to do than read when I am in AZ, duh!

On another note, any Roots fans? If not, you should check them out. I have been bumping their beats for a few years now, Amal got me hooked. (Becca and Amal, you know what jam I'm talking about!) They are a fantastic hip-hop group. The good kind of hip-hop. Not the kind that you awkwardly dance to in the club and pretend you don't know the song(secretly, you love that jam!), but the kind that you can actually belt out the lyrics to and admit that you actually like the song. Great beats, lyrics and a fantastic band to boot. Well, the point of that excited rant was to let you know they are rolling into A-town tomorrow, but obviously I will be in AZ. I was super bummed when I found out I would miss them. But wait, ?uestlove from the Roots is doing a DJ set at the Anchor tonight? Hell yeah he is and it is going to blow my mind! First of all, anyone with a ? in their name just rules, period.

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and I will fill you in on my sunny AZ trip next week!

It's Going to Be an Uphill Battle

2008-11-05T11:55:00.000-08:00

"Whatever our differences, we are fellow Americans. And please believe me when I say no association has ever meant more to me than that." John McCain, concession speech Nov. 4, 2008

The election is over and what an amazing race it has been. I am so grateful that I could be apart of this amazing process and such a history making election that I will probably never see again in my lifetime. We have been hearing it for so long, "Change" is what this country needs. I do not think change is the right word. I think this country needs to be restored to what we all know it can be, not necessarily changed. Change is not always good. Some things obviously do need to be fixed, and I respect my new President and hope that he can work together with all parties to restore our country. Put that "change" into action. Show us you can do it. No more empty promises, you made it and it is time to show us what you are made of.

I do not care how you voted and do not want to know. That is your right, and an amazing right it is, to vote and have the privacy of that vote. No one can take that away from you. I was so impressed to see how many people voted yesterday. I am a HUGE supporter of voting and I am so glad that the good old US of A was not lazy this time around and got out there and used their Right to Vote. I do not think there is a good reason not to vote. Everyone has a voice, and this is how it can be heard. Even if your candidate did not win last night, you did your part and that is all you can do. I felt such a sense of accomplishment, pride, and happiness after I voted. I don't think I really cared who won at that point, I did my part and it was up to the rest of America to do theirs.

So, we must move on and have faith and respect in our new President. That he can lead out country to greater things and have our best interests, as a country, at heart. This is not about being a Republican or Democrat, selfishness or popularity, it is about the United State of America and restoring it, protecting it and defending our freedom! We have to do our part and we all did it yesterday by voting. Of course, I am a little concerned about the coming years for our country (um, who isn't?), but there is no point in dwelling on it. Live your life, do the best you can, use your rights, and help this country grow!

"There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can't solve every problem." Obama, acceptance speech Nov. 4, 2008

History was made last night and that is amazing to be apart of! We are in such a scary and exciting time, and God only knows what will happen next, but all I can do is have a little faith in the people of this country and the people I love, that one day, it will all be okay.

As John McCain said in his humbling concession speech last night: "Americans never quit. We never surrender. We never hide from history. We make history."

Here Goes Nothin'

2008-11-05T10:21:00.000-08:00

Latte anyone? 16 oz. skinny, sugar free nutty-irishman for me, thanks. What the beep is that? My morning Latte. I am addicted to coffee. There, I said it. My life pretty much revolves around my next cup of coffee. I used to have a schedule of my coffee intake (I am a control freak, more on that later). My usual latte in the morning, drip coffee at lunch, and a sugar free carmel americano at night. In the last few months I have varied and now I usually just have my latte and drip after work. Drip coffee puts me to sleep, that is when I realized I had a problem. I know you are all thinking, "Oh man, is she seriously only going to talk about coffee on this blog?" No, no I am not. But, now you realize why this blog is called My Latte Life! I hope you all enjoy reading it. I want this to be a place for me to vent my frustrations and tell tales of my a-mazing life in Alaska. Feel free to leave comments, enjoy!