Another Sullivan Building burns down...

This building from the late 1880s caught fire a couple of weeks ago exactly 1 block from my work and 2 blocks from my apartment. It served as the George Diamond Steakhouse which was a popular star spot in the 60s and 70s. Anyway, it burned from Tuesday through Saturday (yes, you heard me- 4 days.) The first night I stood on the roof for hours with a couple of friends watching this thing burn. I was completely prepared with binoculars, the scope, a camera, and a 12-pack of Amstel Light.

Here are some photos of the fire...

Daytime...



And....
Night

New job and St. Louis Adventure

Today marks the end of my very first week as Assistant Director. It was an absolutely fantastic week! I am seriously the luckiest person in the world because I have the best job. My office is not even close to being ready which is kind of bothering me. Having my desk, phone, and computer finally arrive and set up just so after having to wait for what seems like an eternity will make next week just as exciting as this week. I am petitioning for a laptop so that when I am traveling for work I can also get some work done... hopefully the Dean approves that request. Keep your fingers crossed.

You may be wondering why Thursday is the end to this week... well, Jamie and I are going on an adventure to St. Louis tomorrow (I know, we are wild). Jamie has some law conference and I am tagging along just because I can. First stop, the budweiser facotry. Oh yes, you heard it here... Peyton is touring a beer plant and yes, Peyton will be getting tipsy. Also on the agenda- Daniel Boone's house, the historic district (for shopping of course), perhaps Grant's wife's childhood home, and last but not least, Wal-Mart. Most people do not think of Wal-Mart as a destination, but for those of us who live in cities where Wal-Mart is banned due to their lack of support for unions and the fact that they consistently underpay their employees much of the time considerably less than the living wage, this is like going outlet shopping. Seriously, I have ethical issues with shopping at Wal-Mart (I basically think that they are evil), but those low prices are like crack... once you get a taste, you can never get it out of your system.

The most exciting part of the Wal-Mart adventure is that we are getting a new vacuum. Our current vacuum is the one that my brother had in the late 90s. The filter has not been changed since 1998; it is hopelessly clogged. It barely picks up the tumble weeds of cat hair that are constantly rolling down our hallway.

Anyway, I have to pack... if anyone has any suggestions for things to see or places to eat in St. Louis, then email me.

I still love my elliptical machine

Since I have this new elliptical trainer (and it seems to be all I can talk about), I have altered my daily routine. I have been waking up at 6:00 to work out before work. Jamie put a bungy around the display, so I can now work while I work out. Since this change in my routine, I find that I am more productive for the rest of the day and I sleep better at night.

I'm Lovin' It

I love my new job. I love my new co-workers. I love my office. I love my benefits. I love my bosses. I love my school. I love my boyfriend. I love my friends & family. I love my apartment. I love my cats. I love this city.

I am loving life!

Anna Nicole

What do you think about Anna Nicole Smith?

I never felt like or dislike towards her in the past... I mean, yes, I was a bit grossed out seeing the photo of her kissing her really, really old husband (and rich) husband. Some may say she is a gold-digger, but I say she was an entrpreneur.

The subject of Anna Nicole comes up because she has been in the news so much lately. Surely everyone, at this point, knows that her son died after she gave birth to her baby girl. I can't help but feel really bad for her. Her attorney/baby's daddy was on the news this morning telling in detail about the last moments they spent with her son. It is just so sad that she gained and lost a child all with in a matter of days.

Century Change

At risk of sounding like Katie...

I am nervous that something bad is going to happen because so many good things have been on my radar for so long. Seriously, on Monday, October 2, I will begin the absolute dream job- Oh, Glorius, Assistant Director! How can thou... whom hath an office so big and beautiful declare that any future fate have negative affects upon conquered success.

Why oh why can I not become a 17th C. dutch flemish genre scene?!?!

(Okay, I watched Girl with a Pearl Earring recently- I got caught up in the moment)

It is like Christmas in September...

Here is one of the many things that I charged to my AmEx... I have always wanted exercise equipment (treadmill or elliptical) in my home so that I didn't have an excuse to forego working out. Now, seeing it, passing it multiple times a day, makes me want to hop on and work my little ass out.

I have it set up in the hall next to the window where I can see the skyline of the city, people walking on the street, and the cars and buses driving by... The funny thing is that I know they can see me from the street, but I don't care- hell, I am on my way to hotness.

My AmEx

Every month on the 11th, my American Express closes out for the month. So, today, I decide to see what sort of damage I did for the past month... When I looked at the amount owed, my heart jumped in my throat. All I could think was that someone must have stolen my card number because there is no way that I could possibly owe this much just for one month. As I waited for the itemized statement to load, which took an extremely long time, I planned my course of action. First, i was going to contact AmEx and dispute these charges- that is the joy of having an AmEx, the safety/protection to your credit it provides when it comes to theft and your credit.

I started reading the statement with my calculator in hand and I came to the realization that, yes, it was me who charged every single item on the list. The grand total is just too embarrassing to say... let's just say that I could have bought my own engagement ring for what I just paid on that damn card. Thank god I had the money to pay it, or I could have really been screwed.

Seriously, I am so sick about my spending habits. I really need to curb my elaborate (borderline luxurious) lifestyle... Does anyone have any advice on this matter?

Guest Contributor to Jamie the Gastronome

Since Jamie officially begins his 3rd year of law school tonight, I will be posting food and drink related items on his blog, Jamie the Gastronome, during his hiatus from the blogging world.

You should check it out when you get a chance.

Jailbirds

Since I am sharing photos of my neighborhood, I thought I would share another interesting picture. This is a picture of the maximum security jail (the concrete building with the narrow vertical slits for windows) that is located in the loop (just a few blocks from my apartment).



If you look closely at the top, you can see the prisoners (wesaring orange outfits and some white outfits). The top floor is their recreation area. Sometimes, I look through my scope and I can see them playing vollyball... but, most of the time, they are just looking out at the city or down at the streets.

Best roof in the city...

These people are the luckiest people in Chicago. They own this building (the bottom is leased by Starbuck's). The top of their building is covered with grass. They have two dogs that run around up there. The nice thing about this is that during the harsh winter months, they don't actually have to "walk" their dogs (and consequently pick up the steaming turds with a plastic bag). They just let the dogs out through the courtyard (the hole in the middle) and the dogs run up the stairs and they "walk" themselves.

Here are photos of our neighbor mowing his roof... something you don't see everyday.




If I were him, I would put some patio furniture and a grill up there... but that is just me.

Cliche Photo of the Decade

You know what gets on my nerves... All of the myspace photos of brides with their backs to the cameras looking over their shoulder. That is the cliche bride photo of the decade... Seriously, how many photos just like this have you encountered?

At least have some creativity and have a photos of the couple's silhouette in the sunset. Now, that is romantic. If you want a great example of what a wedding album should look like, check out "Thanks Uncle Sam"'s wedding photo page... it gave me goosebumps it was so beautiful.

Comments working again

FYI:

I played around with my template and settings and ended up fucking up my entire blog. I think that everything is working again now.

Waxing ickiness

I don't know if everyone is familiar with a hip hop lady who recently got out of jail, but I heard something kind of funny about her. Supposedly, after she got out of jail, she visited the salon where I get my hair and waxing done. She had a brazilian then went to get a mani/pedi. After the treatments, she simply got up and walked out of the salon without paying. How trashy is that? You know she had the money.

Oh, also, you know the little short guy that is Karen's nemisis on Will and Grace? He also gets his waxing done at the salon I visit (when in town) and I heard he is extremely hairy. He refers to himself as a hairy little monkey. My waxer said it is disgusting. I can only imagine.

Big Changes

So, I am well on the way to a better job (and better $$$.) On Tuesday, I was offered a job at a marketing firm that represents several liquor companies and Katie's favorite beer company... As a couple of you know, this is not the only job I have been interviewing for over the past month. I also had a really good chance at being the Assistant Director for the Graduate School.

There was quite a bit of difficulty deciding whether or not to take the job at the marketing or try to wait another couple of weeks to hear if I got the job at the College. FIrst of all, there is the issue of title... at the firm, I would be an assistant, whereas at school, I would be an Assistant Director. Second, at the firm I would have a receptionist desk, with the chance of one day upgrading to a cubicle, while at school I would have an office with a door. Third, at the firm, I have a couple of friends, whereas at the College, I am well established and I already know everbody (and by everybody, I go out for drinks with VPs, Directors and Deans on a regular basis.) Fourth, at the firm, I would get paid by the hour, whereas at the College I would have a salary and benefits.

After talking to my daddy, my mom, my boyfriend, and Katie, I decided to take a chance on the firm and see what happens. There are several reasons for this decision. Besides being a chance to get my foot in the door and make some money, it is also a chance to diversify my resume. Plus, it gets me out of my comfort zone. What is the worst that could happen? If I decide that it is not for me and that I would rather work at the College, then I can always return.

Everyone I talked to about this agreed that I know what to expect at Columbia because I have worked there for almost 3 years. If I didn't take a chance on something new (this job at the marketing firm) then I would probably regret it the rest of my life because I would constantly think about what could have been.

Yesterday, I had to tell my boss the news of the job. Overall, she was extremely excited for me. She said that she knew it was coming. I have really gotten close to a lot of people in the office. I didn't think I would feel so sad about leaving. Overall, it was a rough day. Not only did I have a Champagne hangover, but I was also very sick all day from worry and dread at telling everyone the news. I threw up and had the cha-chas all day (I know, gross.) To make matters worse, I missed the potluck because I went home sick. The theme of the potluck was Mexican food... for those of you who know me, it is right up my alley. Plus, I had been looking forward to this for weeks. Someone from the office was thinking of me and made me a plate from the meal and put it in the fridge for Friday (how sweet is that.) Hopefully my appetite will return before then.

The most difficult part is going to be telling the grad school. I am really close to everyone who works there, especially the Dean, and I feel like I am letting them down. I truly appreciate the chance that they gave me, but I felt this new opportunity that presented itself was the best decision for me at this point in my life.

I know I have been going on and on, but this has been something that has been on my mind constantly. To conclude, I am really excited about the new job. I am going to tackle this new experience with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. It is a chance for me to make more money, but more importantly, a chance for me to learn a new business. So, here's to trying new things!

The kitties

Here is a cute picture of my little Maggie... I used the candle light setting on my camera.


Here is another one using the flash...


And here is Ella. This was taken at our old apartment... Check out the lake in the background.


And this is my favorite picture of Ella... I call it "Sassy Ella."

What?

So, I had a fun night last night... so I think, anyway. Jamie went to bed at 9:30 and I stayed up drinking beer until close to midnight (a big feat for me.) It is always interesting to wake up the next morning... Here's what I found- a sink full of green beans... what? I know, I was confused too.

Birthday fun (part 2)

Today (August 6) was officially Jamie's birthday, so we went to see Little Miss Sunshine Little Miss Sunshine this morning. I didn't know quite what to expect from this film because I have this thing about not wanting to see previews or read movie descriptions. I feel that this gives the whole movie away. Overall, I was impressed with the movie. It is a dark comedy that definitely gets a few laughs from the audience. Plus, Steve Carell is in it- what's not to love about that?

After the movie, we rode the train to Chinatown for Jamie's birthday lunch at Lao Sze Chuan, the best Chinese food I have ever had. We are repeat customers here. Their menu is as thick as a novel. They have a "very Chinese" section of the menu that contains delicacies such as intestine and other body parts that I would rather not eat... so I tend to stay away from this section.

Our favorite is the Phoenix and dragon which is shrimp in a white sauce on one side of the plate and chicken in a sweet bbq sauce on the other side of the plate. We also got the biggest pork potstickers ever. They were like a meal in themselves. The last dish we had was the orange beef which is also in a sweet bbq sauce. I know, we had a feast. Since we didn't go to the grocery store this weekend, it will be nice to have the leftovers to eat all week.

If you are ever in Chicago and you want extraordinary Chinese food, head here. Remember, Sze Chuan is known for its spiciness, so if you want it less spicy, you have to ask for mild or medium spice.

I had as much fun today as I did yesterday at the game. It was so fun, it felt like my birthday.

Take me out to the ballgame

Yesterday, we went to the Cubs game to celebrate Jamie's birthday. We decided to leave a few hours early so that we could walk there from out apartment which is 5 miles away. We stopped a few times along the way. The first stop was at the Near North Art fair. Then, we relaxed in a small park off of the mag mile. The best part was our walk through Lincoln Park, including a pit stop in the zoo. We arrived at the game just as the players were running onto the field.

Our first seats were on teh upper deck, but during the 7th inning, we decided to scope out better seats. We ended up sitting in the season ticket holder section. I don't know if you have ever seen Fever Pitch, but these people were really taking it seriously. I usually go for the beer and the people-watching, but these people were actually there for the game- they knew the names of every player simply by looking at their number (go figure.)

Here are some pictures from the game...







This was a very exciting game because the Cubs actually won. This is only the second game I have ever been to that they have won.

After the game, we decided to walk the 5 miles home and ended up running into a friend of mine from grad school. So, we decided to pop into a bar/grill on the north side for a beer and a burger. We tried to continue our walk home, but only made it a mile or so before taking the easy way and riding the bus the rest of the way home.

Overall, it was an absolutely wonderful day. These are the days that make me feel like the luckiest person alive.

Smith Lake

Before heading to the Gulf Coast, we spent the weekend at the lake.

Here is a photo of me at Smith Lake (in Alabama) It is the 3rd cleanest lake in the country. Isn't it beautiful?



We also went tubing. My arms were so soar after this.

I appreciate promptness...

I had been looking forward to meeting an old friend from college while on vacation at the Gulf Coast. After 5 years, this friend had the gall to show up to lunch 45 minutes late. Once seated, this friend talked on his phone for 5 minutes- no hello, no good to see you, nothing. The 30 minute lunch was, needless to say, rushed and somewhat awkward. We agreed to meet up later on that night. By 9:00, I assumed it was not going to happen. But, then, I got a phone call saying he was on his way and to meet him out front of the condo in 5 minutes. After 40 minutes of waiting for him to show, we gave up and went back up to the condo.

I am not upset with this person for acting incompotent and flaky. I am just disappointed because I had been looking forward to this reunion for a while now. Most people have the decency to blow people off with an excuse such as "I am too busy, maybe next time" or "I am going to be out of town." But no, this asshole had to be rude about it. That was a mistake on his part.

One thing that I have acquired with age is the ability to write people off without second thought, especially if they have done an injustice to me. My number one pet peeve is tardiness, especially if there is not phone call or apology. My second pet peeve is someone who does not show up. Again, this is only worsened by the lack of a phone call or apology. This is a double whammy in my book. I guess people do change... in this case, for the worse.

The longest week of my life

As of tomorrow, I will have been sick for one whole week. Not just a little sick, but ill... like lay on the couch all day because I can't move ill. On Tuesday night, I was practically begging to go to the doctor. But, of course, it was a holiday (damn it.) I have only left my apartment once in the past week and it was to go no further than 1 block. My body has gotten so weak during this time that I almost passed out when I was waiting for the elevator in my lobby.

But today, I woke up feeling almost okay. I only woke up (coughing up lung) a couple of times during the night, and by my recent standards, that was a really good night. Today, when Jamie gets home from work, I am planning to get out of my pjs and go for a mini-walk. By mini-walk, I mean up to the roof for some fresh air.

On a better note, this sick thing has caused me to lose my appetite, thus helping with my weight loss goal. Since May 15, I have lost 11.8 pounds (yeah!)

Myspace

Do any of you on myspace have a "friend" who is not really your friend, but really more of an acquaintance who posts comments all of the time? Well, I do and everytime this said person posts a comment it just makes me feel even more sorry for the person than I already did which makes me feel like a bad person.

Reference: Adventures in Babysitting

Hello fellow children of the 80s. I am sure you all have seen Adventures in Babysitting (which was filmed here in Chicago.) Well, in that movie, they accidently ended up in the bad part of town when they were running from the car thieves. They stumbled into a club where they could not leave until they sang the blues. Today, that bad part of town is now my neighborhood and it is no longer considered "the bad part" of town. About 20 years ago, my neighborhood was strictly druggies, strip clubs, and prostitutes. Actually, a little trivia is that one of Al Capone's old hideouts is 1 block south of my apartment in one my college's dorm buildings.

Anyway...

My point is that the club they were in (where she sang the blues) is called Buddy Guy's Legends (many famous people stop in when they are in town- eric clapton for example.) Fot those of you who do not know Buddy Guy, he IS the blues and I mean he is THE man of the blues. Why am I talking about Buddy Guy? Perhaps it is because I will be having dinner with him the night before graduation at the president of my college's house and the next day, I will share a stage with him. I know, I know. It is so cool!

Mrs. Henderson Presents

I watched Mrs. Henderson Presents the other day before work and I really didn't know what to expect. I hadn't even read the description. So, needless to say, I was not expecting all of the boobies. Overall the movie was good. However, if you are going to have a "R" rating and are going to show that many boobies, go ahead and have a love scene or two thrown in for fun.

More good news

Since I will now be working on my thesis project (the business plan for my gallery), I will be considered a part-time student next year and will be eligible for the Graduate Student Advisory Board for the 3rd year in a row. This is great news! Now I will get 3 out of my 6 credit hours paid for. How cool is that? Plus, I can continue working on making the Columbia College Chicago Graduate School experience the best that it can possibly be.

A rediscovered dream...

The other night for class we met at a gallery to talk to a panel of gallery owners in the Pilsen neighborhood (an up and coming arts distrct and one of my favs.)

Before I move on, I went into my graduate program with one goal- to develop a business plan for a future art gallery. I took a class to create a business plan. But, due to various factors, I ultimately put my goal on hold.

So, after the gallery talk, I was feeling the entrepreneurial spirit once again.

Yesterday, I checked my mail and I received notification that I am receiving an award from my school for the best business plan created by a graduate student. This was it. This was the catalyst that I needed. Rather than studying for a stupid 3-day exam, I am planning to participate in a graduate thesis project that results in a finalized business plan. At the completion of the project, the department will consider me for a small business loan of up to $500,000 to get me started on my way.

I feel that I have a plan and that I can be successful.

Nostalgic

Now that my graduate school career is drawing to an end, I am starting to get a little nostalgic. This is it... this is probably the last time that I will be in school. It has been a long, but overall rewarding process. My 8 years of college (undergrad and grad) have given me sure footing from which to create a career. Most of all, I have met some really great people along the way... some friends that will remain in the moment and some friends that will last a lifetime.

This all started last night when I went to Bar Louie last night after class for $1 burger night. As I sat around with my friends from school (and Jamie), I realized that this was one of those moments that I was going to remember forever. We were making a memory. If only I had a picture.

My Easter...

Today, Jamie and I were going to use our buy one, get one free coupon at Hackney's our neighborhood pub/restaurant. We got ready, I got all doozied up and we walked there only to discover that they were closed for Easter. After deliberating for a moment, we said screw it and walked home. Shortly after we arrived back to our apartment, it started raining and it hasn't stopped- I know, rain in Chicago, it is crazy... it never, ever rains here- really, I am totally serious. I think we may have accumulated 1 inch.

Eating at home was the best decision. We had Salmon Roulade, green beans and macaroni and cheese. It was delicious! The salmon was stuffed with something cheesy and spinach. Jamie sauteed the green beans in the same pan that the salmon was cooked in... we sauteed the salmon in butter and deglazed the pan in white wine. It was fantastic!

Today, I also watched Pride & Prejudice (the one with Kiera Knightly- who, frankly, gets on my nerves with all of her pouting, but surprisingly, I kind of liked her in this film.) Jane Austin books turned films are the best... especially when they are well done. They make me feel so good inside. Seriously, there is no cursing, no sex, nothing... it is wholesome fun and it is a period when holding hands is considered something like third base. I think it all of the sexual tension and all of the decency. If there is a film that is out there that is a period piece and I have not seen it, then something is wrong. What is your favorite period film?

Call me a wuss, but...

I rode my bike for 2 hours yesterday by the lake and my ass is so sore. It is not muscle sore, it is boney ass on bike seat sore... I even bought a gell bike seat cover. The elevators were out yesterday morning, so I had to carry my bike down 8 flights of stairs (don't worry, I bitched the whole way.) When we got back, the elevators were still out, so I hoofed it up the 8 flights to get home. I felt so good about my workout, that once the elevators started working again, I treated myself to Edwardo's Stuffed Pizza (yum)... If I could get off of the pizza, then I could really make progress on my path to healthiness...

Speaking of health, I feel like I need to detox my insides. I have looked into several ways to do that, but I am still unsure about where to start, any suggestions?

Where to go on vacation...

I have decided to take my comprehensive exam in the fall and to register for my internship at the museum in the fall so that I can use student loan money to pay for it (since I can't afford it at this time and with all of the drama in my life, I don't feel that I have enough time to study.) So, I am going to have enough money left over to take a vacation. The only trouble I am having is deciding where to go. If you had to take a vacation anywhere at this point in your life, where would you go? I need suggestions.

Are you a geek?

If so, you should check out this site Geekologie... I am not sure if all of it is true, but it is entertaining regardless.

If you love Perez Hilton, then...

For those of you who love Perez Hilton, then you will love The superficial.

Let's catch up...

I know, it has been forever since I last posted...

Here is what you missed...

Last Thursday, I was told that my cousin passed away from complications from her bone marrow transplant. She was told that morning that there was nothing else the doctors could do for her and that she could either go home or to hospice. She chose to go home to die, but within a couple of hours she let go. There is definitely a void in my family and my life. She was my only first cousin. The thing that pisses me off the most is that no one in my family tells me anything. So, hearing that she was gone was quite a shock. The next morning, I found out that I did not get the internship in DC. There is nothing like getting kicked when you are already down.

One good thing came from my cousin's funeral. After 2 1/2 years, I was reunited with my estranged brother. The separation is a long story... let's just say it involved alcohol, my brother, and my prudy parents. I was not there for the argument thank goodness. I was so excited to see him. I ran over and gave him a big hug and he hugged me back. I told him how much I miss him and how much Christmas sucks without him there. He now has my email address and phone number, so hopefully we will start talking again. My dad talked to him as well- I think it is a sign that he is not mad anymore. My mom, on the other hand, needs to stop being such a stubborn bitch and start talking to him again. She told my nana that once she (nana) and grandmommie die, my brother won't have anymore family left. What kind of mother says that?!?! He will have me, my aunt, my uncle, and my dad. Anywho, we had big steps taken towards being a family again at that funeral...

On a better note, yesterday, I got the internship at a major museum here in Chicago. I will be working with the Special Events department. Pretty much, I will work with the Women's Board and their events and also work on weddings. It sounds like something that is perfect for me. The uncomfortable part is telling my boss that I will only be able to work for 2 days a week (sincce I will be at the museum 3 days a week.)

Overall, things are starting to look up... even in the light of sorrow.

Waste of money

The thing about my graduate department that I have had the biggest problem with is that they often hire adjunct "faculty" (I use the term loosely) who have no prior teaching experience. I pay way too much money ($1600 per class to be exact) to be someone's guinea pig. These people should teach an introductory undergrad course before moving to the graduate level or at least co-teach with someone with experience the first time around.

Obviously, I am taking one of these classes this semester... we are on week 9 and I still have not learned anything and I have no clue where this is going. I am so frustrated!

Exciting News!

I was just asked to be the Graduate Student Speaker for the 2006 Commencement. I am so excited and a little nervous. Feel free to offer suggestions for my speech.

Spring Break

So, my last Spring Break ever has officially started... I celebrated last night with, count them, five beers. Whoohoo! Today, I got my hair cut at a chic salon (courtesy of my boyfriend) and I am looking hot (sizzle, sizzle)! If my boyfriend would ever come home from the library, then we could start getting our drink on... Can you believe he is studying on a Saturday and on his Spring Break?!?! I guess law students kind of have to (which is why I am not in law school.) Well, I am going to live it up because starting next weekend, I am back on my diet- meaning, I am only allowing myself one drink night per week.

Well, that is really all that I had to say... OH WAIT!!! Below is one of my favorite recipes (it is delicious and it is sooo good- a little labor intensive- but delicious)

Butternut Squash Lasagna
Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis
Show: Everyday Italian
Episode: Italian Thanskgiving

Cook's Note: The no-boil lasagna noodles can be substituted with fresh spinach lasagna sheets. Look for fresh lasagna sheets in the refrigerated section of specialty markets.

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 (1 1/2 to 2-pound) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup water
3 amaretti cookies, crumbled
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups whole milk
Pinch nutmeg
3/4 cup (lightly packed) fresh basil leaves
12 no-boil lasagna noodles
2 1/2 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan

Heat the oil in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the squash and toss to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Pour the water into the skillet and then cover and simmer over medium heat until the squash is tender, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Cool slightly and then transfer the squash to a food processor. Add the amaretti cookies and blend until smooth. Season the squash puree, to taste, with more salt and pepper.
Melt the butter in a heavy medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, whisking often, about 5 minutes. Whisk in the nutmeg. Cool slightly. Transfer half of the sauce to a blender*. Add the basil and blend until smooth. Return the basil sauce to the sauce in the pan and stir to blend. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, to taste.
Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F.
Lightly butter a 13 by 9 by 2-inch glass baking dish. Spread 3/4 cup of the sauce over the prepared baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles on the bottom of the pan. Spread 1/3 of the squash puree over the noodles. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Drizzle 1/2 cup of sauce over the noodles. Repeat layering 3 more times.
Tightly cover the baking dish with foil and bake the lasagna for 40 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the lasagna. Continue baking uncovered until the sauce bubbles and the top is golden, 15 minutes longer. Let the lasagna stand for 15 minutes before serving.
*When blending hot liquids: Remove liquid from the heat and allow to cool for at least 5 minutes. Transfer liquid to a blender or food processor and fill it no more than halfway. If using a blender, release one corner of the lid. This prevents the vacuum effect that creates heat explosions. Place a towel over the top of the machine, pulse a few times then process on high speed until smooth.

Summer is in the air...

Summertime is coming soon... Cubs tickets went on sale yesterday and I managed to get tickets to four games. There is nothing better than warm weather, baseball and beer- well, warm weather and beer anyway... the baseball is just an added bonus. Well, here is to summertime! Cheers!

A new temptation

Something dangerous has installed itself on my path to work... a Duncan Donuts... It is so bad. I stop every other day to get a cup of their crack coffee and a double chocolate donut. I have never been a fan of Duncan Donuts until it planted a new location halfway between my apartment and my office. Seriously, there is crack in their coffee, that is the only way I can explain my new addiction. Last night I even dreamed about it... A sign of a serious problem.

Fun Names

1.YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet and current street name)
Snoopy Plymouth

2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother on mother's side first name, favorite candy)
Enid Milkyway

3. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME: (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name)
P-Car

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite animal, name of high school)
Cat Cecilia

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)
Aynsley Knoxville

6. YOUR OPPOSITE SEX NAME: (name of dad/mom, cell phone Company you use)
Jim Mobile

7. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (first 3 letters of your last name, last 3 letters of mother's maiden name, first 3 letters of your pet's name)
Carklemag

8. PORN STAR NAME: (middle name, street you grew up on)
Aynsley Huntcliff

Talib Kweli

I recently heard the music of Talib Kweli and it is freakin' awesome... you should check it out...

Talib Kweli


you should visit this website and listen (watch the video) of "get by"... Does the singer at the beginning sound familiar? Well it is Nina Simone (who is also an all-time fav)... so enjoy...

Let's talk about freedom and then couscous

Since when is it to pour out your old coffee in a planter on the publc sidewalk? I did just that and some ass said, "you couldn't have poured it anywhere else, like not on a plant." I simply relied, "well, maybe it needed a pick-me-up"... I am seriuosly going to lose it soon... everyone I encounter is in a bad mood.

In the meantime, you must try this recipe... (Yep, I am totally stress eating today, oh and I picked up some beer. I know it is only 3:25, but I have had a bad week).... Okay, now here's a great recipe...


Couscous with Corn and Black Beans

1 1/2 cups water
1 cup uncooked couscous
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (I prefer ciltanro)
1 can (15-ounce) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 package (10-ounce) frozen corn, thawed and drained
3 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt (I use a little more)
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan, and stir in couscous. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork

Combine couscous, parsley, beans, and corn in a large bowl; toss. Combine orange juice and the next 6 ingredients (orange juice, through pepper); stir. Add to couscous mixture; toss well.

It tastes best when it has time to chill for about an hour.

How I spent my Valentine's Day...

Work 8:30 - 2:00
Class 2:00 - 9:00**

**Not everyone who has a Valentine gets to actually appreciate the holiday for what it is supposed to be... time spent with your honey... Instead, I spent the past 3.5 hours working on a group project (which we all know I despise) with a bunch of snots.

Can you tell I have had a rough couple of days?

A little love from me...

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

A moment to vent...

I know I was attempting to get away from my gripping and more into recipes, but this is something that I must get off of my chest. It may surprise most of you that I rarely do nice things for people just for the hell of it, unless we are real friends or friends of friends. Work people fall into the category of "not-going-to-go-out-of-my-way".

A couple of weeks ago, I found myself feeling generous and I decided go out of my way to help give someone in my office an office baby shower. So far, I have been the only one to plan anything related to it. So today I sent around an email to the office inviting them to the event and the griping began almost immediately. First, the location was all wrong and several people said "I have problems with that" or "who gave you permission to use that location?". Then, the boss wanted to make sure that everyone knew that it was not required and that work comes first... so I had to send around a bitchy email around to everyone letting them know this. You would think that either children or stupid people work in my office. I will be perfectly honest... most of the people I work with are not the sharpest tools in the shed and are destined for a life of mediocrity. The thing that gets me is that this is not even my office/department. My desk is just located within this office.

G-damn! You try to do something nice for someone and everyone has got something to bitch about, or they question everything with their condescending (and quite obnoxious) attitudes... It is just typical of these people up here. It takes a day like this to realize that sometimes I really miss the South.

Best new website

I am going to stray from cooking topics for a moment to share my new favorite celebrity gossip website...

http://www.perezhilton.com/

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do...

Foursomes...

4 Jobs I've had:
- Graduate Assistant
- Marketing Coordinator
- Gym Attendant (Yes, I too was a towel bitch)
- Sales Associate at a department store

4 Movies I watch over and over:
- Steel Magnolias
- Bridget Jones' Diary
- Thomas Crowne Affair (the newer one)
- The Sound of Music

4 t.v. Shows I love to watch:
- The Office
- Two & a Half Men
- Wheel of Fortune
- Martha

4 Places I've lived
- Chicago
- Birmingham
- Nashville
- Chattanooga

4 Places I've been on vacation:
- Las Vegas
- Mexico (the trip from hell)
- Paris (to visit my man)
- Sweden (exchange student)

4 Places I'd rather be:
- hanging out with my Jamie and my kitties
- watching tv
- on the beach with beer (plural) and Zaps Spicy Cajun Crawtators
- cooking

4 of my favorite foods:
- Mild Curry Chicken
- Chipotle Chicken Burrito
- Edwardo's Stuffed Pizza with Italian Sausage and Green Peppers
- Cheese (not Brie... favs include gouda, port salut, and chevre)

4 websites I visit daily:
- www.youarehere1.com
- www.colum.edu
- www.metromix.com
- www.colum.edu

Breakfast Burrito

This breakfast item has lead me back to breakfast food. It is quick, delicious and one of my favorite things to enjoy on the weekend...


Ingredients
1 Tortilla
1 egg (whisked)
Pepper (red, yellow or green- whatever you have on hand- I keep a bag of frozen at all times)
1 oz. Cheese (I use whatever I have on hand- cheddar, colby, monterey jack, pepper jack, or any combo)
1 tbsp. Black Beans (rinsed and drained)
1 tbsp. Corn (frozen rinsed and drained or drained can- again whatever you have on hand)
Cilantro
Sour Cream
Salsa ( I buy salsa from a Mexican Restaurant so that it is authentic and fresh. But you may substitute store-bought)

Instructions
Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat and add peppers
Cook for a minute or two (cook less time for crunchier peppers)
Add whisked egg to the skillet
Stir frequently until your eggs are scrambled with the peppers
Place tortilla on a plate covered with a napkin or plastic wrap and heat for 10 seconds (or until warm and soft)
Sprinkle cheese, black beans, corn and egg mixture down the middle of the tortilla
Roll up the tortilla and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro
Serve with side of sour cream and salsa for dipping

You may also consider adding sliced avacado for fun...

Update on the internship

I know this is not recipe related, but I just found out that I made it to round 2 of the interview process for museum in D.C.... now I have to submit a writing sample, rec letters, resume, transcripts (hopefully, they will ignore my undergrad transcripts, or at least understand that I had a lot of fun and did little studying).

Wish me luck!

Southwestern Lasagna

This is one of my favorite recipes to eat and one of Jamie's favorites to make. Just think, I "poo-poo'd it" (Jamie's phrase for me snubbing something) the first time he made it, but now it is one of my favorites.

Southwestern Lasagna

1 jar bottled salsa (I use medium,use mild if you do not like spice... you may also experiment with various salsas to vary the flavor)
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 (14.5-ounce) can no diced tomatoes (if you don't like chunks of tomatoes, I would suggest petite diced tomatoes)
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
Cooking spray
6 precooked lasagna noodles (you may also use tortillas cut into quarters)
1 cup frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed (you can use drained canned corn instead if you have it on hand)
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
3 cups (8 ounces) preshredded reduced-fat 4-cheese Mexican blend cheese (I usually use cheese that I have- it varies from cheddar, monteray jack, colby, pepperjack, etc.... I shred it myself to save money and to burn calories)
cilantro
sour cream

Preheat oven to 450°.
Combine first 4 ingredients; spread 2/3 cup sauce (or there-abouts) in bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange 2 noodles over sauce; top with 1/2 cup corn and half of beans. Sprinkle with 3/4 cup cheese; top with 2/3 cup sauce (or there-abouts). Repeat layers; top with 2 noodles. Repeat this sequence once. Spread remaining sauce over noodles. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese. Cover and bake at 450° for 30 - 40 minutes or until noodles are tender and sauce is bubbly. (**Tip: the sauce tends to drip over to the bottom of the oven, burns and then smells like it burned, so I suggest you put a cookie tray underneath to catch any droppings- but be advised, it will take a little longer to cook. Last time I made this dish, it took about 50 minutes to throughly cook on the cookie tray).

Let stand 15 minutes. Top with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro (if you like cilantro)

If you do not serve the entire dish, then I suggest that you divide it into tuperware containers and save for later. You can even put the tuperware into the freezer and save it for later.

A nice complement to this recipe is the guacamole recipe and blue corn chips in one of my previous posts. It is nice to have a nibbly while you (or your guests) wait for the lasagna to cook. Also, margaritas are a fun twist... if you think margaritas are too sour or you are looking for a fun twist, try adding a splash of Madori (melon liquor). It is a little pricy ($25-$30 per bottle), but remember a little goes a long way... plus, it gives your drink a fun light green coloring.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

This blog is even boring to me and I am the creator. From this moment on, I will blog about recipes, food and the occassional rant and rave about something or other. So sit back and enjoy the change...

Quacamole Rustica

Here is how I make what I consider the perfect quacamole...

INGREDIENTS
1 avacado (slightly soft)
1/4 finely chopped red onion
1 lime
cilantro
kosher salt

DIRECTIONS
cut avacado in 1/2 and remove pit
slice hatchmarks in each half
spoon/scrape avacado from both halves into a bowl

roll whole lime on counter to soften
squeeze whole lime on avacado (I like to use tongs to get a really good grip and get as much juice as possible out of the lime)

Chop a handfull of cilantro and add to mixture (I like to use a lot of cilantro because it is so yummy)

Salt to taste and serve with Tortilla Chips (I prefer blue corn chips)

(you may also want to consider adding tomatoes or jalapeno/serano chile to this to give it a kick)

(If you have to store it, be advised that it will turn a nasty color within a day. To save for a few hours, make sure the the plastic wrap is tightly pressed against the mixture)

Possibilities

So, I just overnighted an application for a summer internship at a major art museum in D.C. This morning, I realized that the due date is January 12 - tomorrow. Talk about freaking out... I have been in panic mode all day and I can finally relax.

You may be asking, "what about Jamie?"... Jamie is cool with me going to D.C. for 8 weeks. Besides it hasn't happened yet and it may not even happen...but, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers... I really want and deserve this internship.

Now, I am going to de-stress with a bottle of champagne.

These are a few of my favorite things... (this weekend)

My two favorite activities...

1. Shopping
2. Eating

Today I had breakfast at this place called Orange on Harrison. My breakfast was called "popeye's breakfast". The eggs had spinach and fresh tomatoes with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It came with toast (I chose Rye bread) and potatoes. It was sooo good and less than $10. I don't even like breakfast food, but this place was delicious. I give it an A+.

As for the shopping, I think I really have a problem. I heard that people in Chicago like to shop... a lot... but I never thought that I would be one of those people. Shopping makes me feel so good when I feel so bad, or it can make a good day a great day, or it can be a form of entertainment. Every store you can think of is here is this fantastic city... so I have temptations around every corner.

This topic brings me to something quite serious. Marshall Fields was purchased by Macy's and they are changing the name to Macy's. Marshall Fields is a landmark here and they are stepping all over it with this name change. I will discontinue shopping there as a protest once it becomes Macy's.

Well, I have stuff to do.