Now Boarding

Taking a break to fill this survey out!

2010-01-18T19:09:00.000-08:00

USING ONLY ONE WORD

Where is your cell phone? table
Favorite Season?Fall
Your hair?Blonde
Your mother?Becky
Your father?Bill
Your favorite thing?faith
Your dream last night? sad
Your favorite drink?Iced Tea
What room are you in?Marriott Hotel
Your hobby? Crocheting
Your Fears? War
Where do you want to be in 6 years? alive
Where were you last night? Home
Something that you aren't? fake
Muffins?blueberry
Wish list item? Cures
Last thing you did? typed
What are you wearing?pjs
TV? on
Your pets?kiara
Friends?lots
Your life?happy
Your mood?tired
Missing someone?sister
Drinking?coffee
Your car?rental
Something you're not wearing? socks
Your favorite store? target
Your favorite color?plum
When is the last time you cried? yesterday
Where do you go to over and over?melrose
My favorite place to eat?Joys
Favorite place I'd like to be at right now?Chicago!

hello united!

2010-01-04T07:28:00.001-08:00

Well I am back to traveling for work via airplane and not car! I have unfortunately parted ways with delta. sad.

18 miles.....!!!

2009-08-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday was my longest run ever so far. It didnt start off to a great start b/c I went to bed so early on Friday night that I forgot to set my alram and Chuck had to wait almost an hour for Scott and I to get there to start, but we all made it to 18 miles! I didn't even know the Lakeshore path went that far south!

I would have never thought I would ever be running this long. I feel like after the first 4 things just start to blur together. I do have to say that I am blessed by the strength that God has given me to do this, I pray before my run and even during my run when i am struggling and when even when I am feeling good. I

So....2 more long runs to go before the big day, a 20 miler and a 22 miler.

Philippians 4:1313 I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.

I'm on a Treadmill!

2009-08-04T16:13:00.001-07:00

Oh my gosh, so we had our 15 mile run to complete late Friday. We were in ATL and were going to run half inside and half outside. The run was actually going pretty well, so we ended up completing the 15 mile run on a treadmill in the ATL marquis:-) Glad that is over with!

Awkward Family Photos

2009-08-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to pass this website along... It brightens up my dad and it also makes me wonder if my family has anythig to add to the collection:-) I will have to look when I go home next!

http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/

Race for the Cure

2009-07-20T07:19:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

After completing my first half marathon in May of this year, I have decided to run the Chicago Marathon, which will be held on October 11, 2009.

In addition to running the marathon for my own personal goal, I have decided to join a charity group and run for charity. I chose to run for the Chicago Diabetes Project.

Why did I choose the Chicago Diabetes Project?

When I was in high school my dad always bugged me to run and told me I should join track. I pretty much thought he was crazy and I hated running then. However, in the last year and a half I have started running and now I really enjoy it. As some of you may know, my dad is a Type I diabetic and he has struggled and controlled the disease since was 14 years old. Prior to the disease, he enjoyed running and track but was not able to compete in these sports when he was diagnosed. With less technology back then it was harder to control. With the research that has been done in more recent years it is easier to control diabetes if you have the self discipline. So, I picked the diabetes charity because I have seen the ups and downs and my dad is the one who always bugged me about runningJ

Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions. In 1985 there were 30 million diabetics. Today the number has skyrocketed to more than 197 million. By the year 2025, diabetes will affect more than 300 million people worldwide if the epidemic isn’t stopped.

The mission of the Chicago Diabetes Project is to make islet cell transplantation the most viable option for diabetes treatment. This international collaboration of qualified researchers and physicians is dedicated to finding a functional cure. To learn more, visit ChicagoDiabetesProject.org.

My goal is to raise $800 in donations and every little bit counts! If you are able, I would greatly appreciate your help in the race for the cure!

To donate please go to the website below.
www.active.com/donate/cellmatesontherun/staciwagnerchicagoma

And spectators are greatly appreciated throughout this run, so if you would like to attend, please let me know!

Love
Staci

So proud of my little sis....

2009-06-30T09:51:00.003-07:00

Steph got a job with the USDA at the beginning of the summer and she wrote her first publication for the USDA yesterday for the weekly crop weather.

She wrote the Hot & Dry section. Thought I would pass it along b/c I am a proud sister:-)

link http://www.nass.usda.gov/weather/cpcurr/mi-crop-weather

11 Miles - Done!! Woo hoo!

2009-06-30T09:51:00.001-07:00

Saturday was the 2nd farthest that I have ever ran in my life! And it was just part of the training for the marathon. It was a nice day and a great run along the lake. This was also Scott's longest run, ever, and I was happy to be there with him! It is such a good feeling of accomplishment. For now, on to more training, the mileage is only going to increase!

Life lessons to pass along.

2009-06-15T10:17:00.001-07:00

A friend sent me this, so I thought that I would pass this along:

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio"To celebrate growing older"

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood.. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's,we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.44. Yield.45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Run to Wrigley 5K

2009-04-27T03:51:00.001-07:00

This marks my second year for the Run to Wrigley Race. I improved my time this year and finished at 26:56. (Last year I ran it in 30:11!!)

It was a nicer day than the year before and I had some company. Scott decided to run it with me and we crossed the finish line together!

Two Years

2009-03-26T08:32:00.000-07:00

So, it has been 2 years since I started with my current company. I can't believe it. Two years ago, I was moved to the city with only my car and a a car full of my stuff. I was staying with friends until I moved into my place in May. Now, two years later, I currently have 2 apartments (had to sign the lease for one a month earlier than I wanted to, so I could ensure I got the apartment) and my current project is renting me a car b/c I no longer own one. Wow have things changed!

I have met great people at the company I work for and have never thought about leaving. I could not have been more blessed with a job that I enjoy and great people to work with.

In the Burbs...

2009-03-24T20:12:00.001-07:00

Well I am officially staffed as of March 16th in the beautiful suburbs of Chicago, Lincolnshire. The drive to work is about an hour and I will be staffed out there until September 2009, as of now. Learning alot and I am enjoying the team, so that is all that matters!

I guess I should change the name of my blog to "now driving' ugh, that sounds terrible!

And what I am really sad about is losing all of my status' for the Marriott and Delta. I don't want to travel with the 'other' people :-)

So, now I will have to look into the Hertz status points.......wish me luck!

Happy Lent

2009-02-26T20:57:00.001-08:00

Yes, Lent. I am not Catholic, but this year I decided to give something up. So, I decided to give up chips and of course follow the no meat on Fridays this year. We shall see how this goes!

He is just not that into you

2009-02-16T21:43:00.000-08:00

On V-Day Robyn, Abby, and I headed to see the movie "He is just not that into you" Seemed fitting for Valentine's Day. After the movie we headed to Rush and Division to have some wine. It was a great night with the girls, just what I wanted.

Oh and Garry sent me 12 Gerber Daisies which are my fav!

Beautiful Saturday in the City

2009-02-08T21:37:00.001-08:00

It was so nice out Saturday, so I went for a run by the lake. I just had to snap a picture of a great view! I love this city! It was like a random 60 degree day in the city and so many people were out running on the lake! One of those days when you realize why you suffer through the bad winters.

Mambo Grill

2009-02-05T11:04:00.000-08:00

For Robyn's birthday we went to a restaunart called Mamba Grill. They had fabolous Sangaria and a Latin fusion mixed menu. Thought I would pass along the website.

http://mambogrill.com/

Hello Osi

2009-02-04T20:54:00.001-08:00

I almost forgot to blog about my famous star sighting.

On the plane from MIA to ATL I was bumped to first class. Along came this guy that asked for me to move to his wife could sit with him (I normally do this); however, today wasn't my day with little sleep, so he said "don't worry about it sweetie" I was totally listening to his conversation before take off and heard some talk about another NFL player and training, etc. I knew he was a player then, just still couldn't pin point it.

So, I had to get creative. I got my phone out and recorded about a 30 second video, so I could then later find it out online. Turns out, he is a player for the NY Giants!!! And later I found out that a friend of mine works with his sister. Small world!

I was going to publish the video but refrained to do so, so I didnt look like a stalker.

The story from Flight 1549 (an accenture employee)

2009-02-04T07:03:00.001-08:00

I thought this would be nice to pass along. An accenture employee was on flight 1549 which went down in the Hudson. He tells his story below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hello, All.

I realize many folks have expressed an interest in hearing (1st hand) the full details of flight 1549…

But, before I go into that, let me begin by saying THANK YOU! I can’t thank everyone enough for all the support, emails, text messages, and voice-mails I’ve received. This event has made me extremely proud to be an Accenture employee and has made me realize how blessed I am to have such a great network of colleagues and friends to lean on.

I flew up to New York late Wednesday night for a quick client meeting on Thursday morning. I had booked a 5PM return, but since we wrapped up around noon, I decided to head to the airport early and jump on the earlier flight (flight 1549).

Everything was normal on takeoff... We lifted off under full throttle and after a minute or so, the pilot throttled back and continued climbing. It was at least 2-3 minutes more before we heard a loud crash that shook the cabin. At this point, it sounded like the captain quickly backed off on the throttle and leveled the plane. We made a few turns, but seemed to be flying level and straight. Although, initially, there was a gasp, the sudden quiet brought about a sense of relief across all of us... We were still flying, and it seemed like we would be going back to the airport. However, at that time, we started to smell some smoke in the cabin (to me, like an electrical burnt smell). While concerning, I still felt like things were alright because we seemed to be flying ok.

We continued to cruise, what seemed to be level for the next several minutes. It was clear we were following the Hudson River, but I really had no idea both of our engines were completely out.

Then came the announcement... "BRACE FOR IMPACT"... It was a very calm voice and in the same demeanor as you routinely here the Captain say, "Flight Attendants Prepare the Cabin for Arrival".

In my mind the first thought was, "You've got to be kidding me, right?" Then it sunk in... We were going down, and we were going to do it in the river. The next thing that went through my head was a quick prayer... "Dear Lord, please help us through this... I could really use You right now".

The flight attendants were giving quick instructions... Head between your knees, grab your ankles. Then they started to chant, "Tuck and Brace, Tuck and Brace". The plane appeared to be descending normally, maybe even slower than a normal landing.

I pulled my cell phone out of my pocket and powered it up... Maybe I'd have a chance to call my wife and tell her that I love her and to make sure she tells my 2 year old son that I Love him every day. The phone started to come up, but I never did get any bars to make that call.

They say your life flashes before your eyes in the final moments... It didn't for me. I was focused on how my wife would manage, how I'd never get to see my son grow up. I was also very glad I opted for the “7X my salary” on the life insurance.

Still looking for bars on my cell, I could tell, we were really close to the water. I did what the flight attendants said and quickly ‘tucked & braced’, holding on tight... Then we hit the water. It was pretty bumpy and it felt like we took a hard left turn in the water, but we came to a stop. I was expecting the worst... Maybe the plane would flip... Maybe it would break apart and flood quickly. It didn't.

I was sitting in the bulk head row just behind first class (seat 4D). As we stopped, the Captain announced quickly, "Abandon Plane, Abandon Plane!" Within seconds, the stewardess in the front was popping the doors open and we were sliding out to safety. I went out the front right door which turned out to be probably the best option as only the front doors had inflatable rafts that deployed.

As I got to the end of the raft, I looked towards both shore-lines... My thought was if the raft was too full, could I swim it? There wasn't a chance, it was approximately 1/2 mile in each direction and you could tell the water was “Titanic-style” cold. At this point, people were pouring out of the plane onto the wings and it was a great feeling to know we were all getting out. Another quick look at the shorelines, and I realized there was a ferry approaching fast... In fact, there were 4 ferries and they all arrived simultaneously.

Once everyone from our raft was on board, the Ferry quickly made tracks for the Manhattan shoreline and the ferry terminal. It wasn't more than a 2-3 minute ride before we docked and all headed into the terminal.

They used the terminal as a holding area in order to establish counts of us all. Luckily, I had already made several calls to my wife, and was now focused on reaching out to a wider group of folks to let them know I was fine. I quickly received a voice mail from Wayne Busch trying to find out if I was on the plane. After returning his call, I was able to provide him with the details and asked him to contact the Employee Assistance hotline.

The Employee Assistance Program was truly a ‘God-send’. They immediately contacted my wife, keeping her up-to-date. They also purchased a plane ticket for her so she could fly up to NY that evening to be with me. They arranged for a car service to come down and retrieve me from the docks, took care of booking me a hotel room and handled the travel arrangements for my return flight on Friday.

Wayne Busch took charge of the car service and came down to the pier to take care of me. The whole area was blocked off by firemen and police, so I figured there was no way for him to get in... Sure enough, he slipped by wearing his long overcoat, looking very much like many of the detectives on the scene. After a few more minutes, I ditched my American Red Cross blanket, and still wearing my suit, I slipped out with Wayne the same way he came in. I couldn't wait to be back somewhere warm, and somewhere I could get away from the chaos of the day.

Back at the Hotel, there was food in the room waiting on me (thanks Dan Gietl!). I had also mentioned that I needed a phone charger and there were two brand new chargers ready to top off my phone. On another table there was a full set of toiletries. A few minutes later a bell man arrived with a wardrobe of clothes in my size from Lord and Taylor. It turns out, my wife had provided my sizes to the employee assistance group and they took care of the rest.

I didn't have much time before I jumped in the car service and headed to the airport to meet my wife. Seeing her come down the stairs to baggage claim was about the greatest thing in the whole world. The crash was quite surreal and left me feeling with a sense of, "Am I really alive, or did I really go down with the plane and I'm just dreaming all of this." When she came through security and was finally in my arms, I knew it wasn't a dream and that everything was truly ok.

I made it back to Charlotte Friday afternoon... We got home just before 4PM and rushed over to pick up my son from the neighbors. The tears were unstoppable as I thought about how lucky I was to hold him in my arms again.

An event like this really puts into perspective how important your family is and how easy it is to take them for granted. As consultants we work many hours and I find that when I’m home, I just want to relax and unwind. It has only been a few weeks, but I believe I’ve experienced a fundamental shift in that regard. The time I spend with my family has become real quality time and every moment is cherished.

I’d like to close this with a few thank you’s to some amazing folks within the Firm. First, Wayne, you are the man! I can’t imagine how much more I could have taken being stuck in the ferry terminal area. It was also great just having a beer with you and putting the day behind me. Second, I can’t say enough about the support I received from Dan Gietl. He jumped into action and made an attempt at retrieving me from the docks. At the Hotel, he made sure my wife and I had everything we needed (as well as a few things beyond what we needed). Most importantly, he made sure we were comfortable and convinced me that I should take some down time to spend with Family (I’m so glad I took your advice!). I want to thank Cyndy Fremaux who led up the incident from the Global Asset Protection group. I really feel you provided amazing support and in true Accenture fashion well beyond my expectations. Lastly, thank you Mary Birks who immediately contacted my wife, and with repeated phone calls, helped to facilitate her flight, as well as coordinated with other groups in helping to insure I had all I needed. According to my wife, Mary provided the support she needed for her as well, lending an invaluable “virtual” shoulder to cry on.

I can't beleive the cruise is over!

2009-02-03T19:43:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to sum up the highlighted events from the cruise this weekend!

Thursday Sara and I met at the ATL airport. She barely made the flight, because her's was delayed coming from Detroit. It was such a close call by like 5 minutes! I had first class for this stretch of the flight!

Thursday night we went out in Miami. We stayed in Coconut Grove, which is a little neighborhood area about 20 minutes from the port of call. We did some shopping and went out at night.

Friday afternoon is was time to cruise! We boarded the ship around 1:00pm and of course had to get our first drinks! We checked out more of the ship and had a late lunch. On the ship included multiple bars, a casino, a spa, rock climbing wall, pool, etc. There was plenty to do. At first we had to get used to the movement of the ship. It was a little weird and rocky; however, since it was my first cruise I didn't have much to compare it to. Oh and I cant forget about the mandatory mustering drill.

We had dinner that night and then off to spectrum the hotel bar where there was dancing all night! And we met a new friend from Argentina!

We woke up Saturday to find out that we wouldn't be stopping at Coco Cay (which is a private island on the way to the Bahamas) We heard this was the best part of the trip, so we were disappointed. We were not able to stop at this island due to the weather as it was too windy. So, we spent the day at sea. It was very windy by the pool and a little chilly but we made it through the wind. Before the pool though I participated in a "Suduko Challenge" (they have alot of activities throughout the day) and I didn't win b/c I showed up a few minutes late and it was timed.

Saturday night - This was the formal night! We got all dressed up and went to our formal dinner. The food was ok for this, nothing special but it turned into a fun night!

Sunday during the day - We scheduled to leave the Bahamas at 430 We were supposed to go
snorkeling at 9AM but it was too cold:-( So...we just walked around the Atlantis and the Bahamas. Not too impressed with the port, for anyone traveling in the future, but it was something to see. And I was able to get a massage during the day. It was fabolous!

Sunday night was the superbowl and of course we attended the superbowl party on the ship. After the party in the night club area they had an adult scavenger hunt which got crazy but was fun and we will just leave it at that:-)

Other items to note:

Sea Pass Card - When you board the ship you are issues a sea pass card which you take with you at all times. This is your credit card and identifcation to get on and off at ports. Great invention! But terrible when you get the bill the day of departure:-)
Eating on the ship - First of all the ship has food pretty much ALL the time. The buffets are crazy (which is wear we ate breakfast and lunch
Assistant Waiter - So for the three nights we had a formal dinner each night. You are assigned the same table every night with a waiter and an assistant waiter. We got to know the assistant waiter very well and learned more about a job at sea. He was on a 6 month contract (from Indonesia) and works 7 days a week/10 hours a day. This man was probably older than my father completing all of this physical labor. It was just sad. So, he also told us about his daughters at home which he missed. Needless to say, over the course of 3 nights, we made a friendship with him and we both had tears when we hugged him goodbye.
Tie Die Shirt couple - We noticed two cheesy couples who had matching tie-die shirts and couldn't believe it. There are pictures taken throughout the cruise and they are posted for everyone to view and purchase, so we stumbled on the couples who had the tie dies that we saw earlier int he night. I snapped a picture to people wouldn't think I am lying. And then! Here is the best part..we overheard the two girls looking for their picture and we knew we couldn't tell them where it actually was. HaHa

So to sum things up, I would definitely recommend going on a cruise. Next time I would like to try the Western Caribbean so hopefully that is sooner than later!

Majesty of the Sea here we come!!!

2009-01-28T09:46:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow morning Sara and I are flying to Miami. We are hanging out there for the night and then on Friday, we will be boarding the Majesty of the Seas ship (Royal Caribbean cruise lines) and sailing away!

We have a stop in the Bahamas and a private island. I can't wait as I have never been on a cruise before!! Day spa and snorkeling here I come!!

New Specs, New Eye Doctor

2009-01-28T09:45:00.001-08:00

So, it was about time that I get a new eye doctor in the city.

Although, I will miss the cute one back home in Ionia!

The new doc wasn't so cute, but it was a great small family owned eye doctor close to my apartment.

Here are my new specs!

Zetterberg to get $72M deal

2009-01-28T08:22:00.001-08:00

I was so excited when I saw this news this morning!!! I thought I would share. He is my favorite Redwings hockey player for those of you who don't know (and my future husband but he doesn't know that yet:-))

The Detroit Red Wings have agreed to a contract extension with forward Henrik Zetterberg worth slightly more than $72 million over 12 years.

Zetterberg, a 28-year-old native of Sweden, is in his sixth NHL season, all with Detroit. He has 43 points in 45 games this season.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=3865527

Just having fun to see what we will look like on our first magazine cover.

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Couldn't pass up this quiz when I saw it.

2009-01-26T14:44:00.000-08:00

The City That Best Fits You Is Chicago

70% Chicago
55% New York City
55% Philadelphia
55% San Diego
55% San Francisco

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

Abs in a box..yes really..

2009-01-23T12:34:00.001-08:00

This is no joke, saw this on Rachel Ray today and thought that I would pass along! I think people will think of the craziest things!!

"Abs in a Box is a two-part system that uses the most advanced firming cream available in combination with a cosmetic body sculpting kit that will make you look 10-15 pounds thinner - instantly. All highlighting and contouring shades are 100% waterproof and sweat proof and will match any skin tone. Whether you're looking for that ripped six-pack you've never been able to achieve, or just a slimmer looking waist for when you take your kids to the pool, we've got you covered."

http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=202174&catid=119689

LOST!

2009-01-23T12:33:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was the season premier of LOST! It was so exciting and I cant wait for the rest of the season!!! If you want to start watching LOST, you can watch all of the seasons online at the following link!

http://abc.go.com/primetime/lost/index?pn=index

Welcome Joslynn Zamora

2009-01-18T16:41:00.000-08:00

On January 16th,my cousin Melissa, gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Joslynn Zamora. She was born in Lansing, Michigan and she weighed 7 lbs 3 ounces and was 21.5 inches

I wasn't able to be there for the birth as I was in Chicago but I was getting updates from my mom and sister the entire night. I was able to see the baby for the first time on Sunday. On Sunday I stayed all night with Melissa at the hospital. And wow, having a baby is ALOT of work. I mean we were up on and off all night feeding the baby and changing the diapers (of which I changed about 7 that day!) It was so good to help Melissa and spend time with the baby. I am not officially an 'Aunt'! She is beautiful and here are some pics!

These was taken in the hospital

Taken in the hospital, she slept in this position with her hands alot.
At home with my big sis, Gracie First bath at my mommy's house.

Time for change...

2009-01-18T13:55:00.001-08:00

January 8th was my last day working in ATL. I can't believe that it has been almost a year since I started working in ATL. The time flies! It was a good experience and I had fun and have many memories from ATL. I met a new team and made new friends. Had to snap a few pics before I left:-) I know I am a huge dork! Oh and I cant forgot I got a Chicken Biscuit from Chik-fil-a before I left. At first I thought eating chicken in the morning was weird, but its so delicious. I will miss them!!

The Equitable Building

View of the Park outside the office

Walking back from my last lunch

View of the Broad Street

Peachtree Marta station

Another pic of the Equitable Building
Peachtree Center - It connects through to the Marriott

Marriott Marquis

January 9th was my last day on my current project. I have been working on the same project since April 30, 2007! Yikes time really does fly by. I still love the company that I am working for and I have met sooo many new people over the last (almost) couple of years. So, now I will be looking for a new project to be staffed on and until then I am on the bench and taking lots of CBTs (Computer based training)

Before leaving ATL I wanted to make sure that I went to the Georgia Aquarium. So Garry took me to the aquarium and then (ironically) the Atlanta Fish Market for dinner.Unfortunately, the penguins were vacationing when we were there but we were able to see the otters which were my favorite! And Garry bought me an otter stuffed animal to complete the day! Oh and I got a Christmas ornament from there (which I think that means I am getting old when I start collecting those) The aquarium was alot of fun, as well as dinner (it was delicious!)

Here are some pics from the aquarium! It was so much fun and it blows Shed Aquarium out of the water!

Trying something new...London Fog Tea

2009-01-05T12:22:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to pass something on that I tried today. Starbucks introductd this new beverage line up and I tried the "London Fog" and it is delicious. I tried it with nonfat milk.

London Fog Nutrition Info: p://www.starbucks.com/retail/nutrition_beverage_detail.asp?selProducts=1c3a727b-0878-4124-a4c7-fc0e5f2009fe&strAction=GETDEFAULT&x=27&y=6

2009 NHL Winter Classic - Go Redwings!!

2009-01-05T12:21:00.001-08:00

January 1st marked the 2nd annual Winter Classic game. This year it was held at Wrigley Stadium (Home of the Chicago Cubs) and it was between long time rivals the Detroit Redwings and the Chicago Blackhawks.

All I wanted for Christmas was those tickets and Garry got them for me! Our seats were in the bleachers center field. The rink was closer to home plate (bleachers are in the outfield) and there was another smaller rink for some of the intermission events.

The game was an amazing experience! Some highlighted experiences from the event.

Layered up - I swear by the "Under Armor" brand of clothing. The day before the game I bought some under armor pants and long sleeve shirt and I think that was the best purchase ever! I ended up having about 5 layers on top and 2 on the bottom which was enough for the cold weather.
Prior to the game there was little kids playing hockey on the smaller rink in the outfield. They were dressed up in the classic jerseys and soooo adorable. On little boy has his jersey to his ankles. Here are some pics that I took of them:

For NHL games they play both the Canadian and American Anthems. The presentation of these were great. The brought the largest flags out for the singing of the anthems. During the Star spangled banner there were fireworks that went off and well as a finally fly by with 2 jets.

Prior to the game there were signs that were held up in the stadium to spell out "Happy New Year" and "Winter Classic banners in the crowd happy new year and winter classic

During the game (up until Detroit took the lead (4-3) alot of the Blackhawk fans were chanting "Detroit Sucks" It was extremely irritating so I (surrounding by alot of those fans chanted back "Stanley Cup" Needless to say once Detroit was winning it stopped!

We tested out the instant hand and toe warmers. They last for like 6 hours and I would definitely recommend these.

Celebrity sightings - Vince Vaugn was spotted at the game, but unfortunately I didn't get to see him, I only read about it the next day. http://www.nbcchicago.com/sports/hockey/blackhawks/Winter-Classic-FAN-tastic.html

It would not be the same at Wrigley Stadium without signing "Take me out to the ball game" like normally played in the 7th inning stretch

Brief history of the Winter Classic games:

The Heritage Classic was an outdoor ice hockey game played on November 22, 2003, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, between the Edmonton Oilers and the Montreal Canadiens. It was the second NHL outdoor game and the first regular season outdoor game in the history of the National Hockey League, and was modeled after the success of the "cold war" game between the University of Michigan and Michigan State University in 2001.

Given the success of the Heritage Classic, a second regular season outdoor NHL game, the 2008 NHL Winter Classic was played on January 1, 2008, at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. The home team was the Buffalo Sabres, and they hosted the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins won the game, 2-1 in a shootout, on a goal by captain Sidney Crosby.[3]
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Happy New Year!

2009-01-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

This new years was pretty low key b/c the following day was the winter classic. We didn't want to go all out and we all just wanted to be together, so a group of us (Garry, Robyn, Sara, and Chuck and I) had some dinner at Chuck's house and then headed to Durkins (a frequent watering hole for us) Brian and Bree also showed up to celebrate (Brian is the brother of Garry's roommate) It was a great set up at Durkins and not too busy, not too crowded and good music!

Oh and note: This was my first year to celebrate NYE in Chicao which is in CST, so I learned you basically celebrate it twice (for EST and CST) We watch the ball drop in NY and then they also have a countdown in Chicago. My grandparents always call me on New Years at midnight or I call them and this year they were kind and sweet enough to stay about until 1EST just to wish me a Happy New Year at midnight CST. That was the cutest thing ever and I was so happy that they did that!

Here are some pics from ringing in the new year.

Fight Broncos fight, Fight with all your might, Western win this game!

2008-12-31T09:42:00.000-08:00

After racing home from the airport last night I was able to see WMU score their only two touchdowns in the Texan bowl; however, they still lost to Rice 38 - 14

There was a "Watch Party" at the Cubby Bear in Chicago with about 200 WMU alum there to watch the game. It was great being around all of the Broncos again! And I ran into some old friends!

On your mark.....get set...

2008-12-30T15:09:00.001-08:00

Yikes, I just signed up for a half marathon! It takes place on May 3 in Eugene, Oregon which is approx 2 hours from Portland Oregon.

Um, why did I do this??

I guess I just wanted to get in shape fast
I wanted to train for something to accomplish
Try something new!

If you are interested in signing up you can find more info at the following link. http://www.eugenemarathon.com/

Mom's Surprise Party

2008-12-28T16:04:00.000-08:00

My mom turned the big "5-0" on Christmas Eve, but my sister and I threw a surprise party for her on Saturday night. There was a fabulous turn out! And my mom was so surprised, although, my sister and I had to lie to her the entire day! Here are some pics from the party.

After the surprise party the girls and I (Erin, Katie, Andrea, and Carrie) exchanged our Christmas ornaments. This year we all had to "go green" and make our ornaments from things around the house. So for mine, I traced my hand, made copies of our 6th grade pics and glued them on the hand, then added some cheesy glitter and some pipe cleaner for a hanger! Come to find out I glued the pics the wrong way so when you go to hang it they are backwards:-) Oops - that is what you get for home made though! I got Katie's ornament which consisted of an angel made out of cotton balls and tissue paper and a glitter halo with a baby pic of her for the face:-) It was so good to catch up with the girls! We may not see each other for a while but when we do its just back to normal.

Off to the airport at 315AM yesterday morning to come back to ATL to work yesterday and today. But I am looking forward to 6PM when I get to leave for the airport to FINALLY go home to Chicago to celebrate New Years!

Santa is coming to I-Town!

2008-12-26T08:46:00.000-08:00

I can't beleive Chirstmas is not offically over. I woke up yesterday morning to my sister yelling at me to get up - - nothing changes around here:-)

We opened our Santa gifts first. Yes, we still get Santa gifts b/c our mom is awesome. My sister and I managed to get my mom the same book, oops! All of the gifts I got were great. My sister got me a book about useless knowledge, which I am super excited to read (I will be sharing it on my blog throughout the year) Here are some pics of Kiara guarding her stocking, she even got a little snipping when we tried to take it away.

We did all of our gift exchanges and then went to my nana and boppys for lunch and to celebrate. Of course the food was awesome, my nana cooks the best ham! I got my grandparents a digital keychain, so below are some picutres that I took to upload.

And always remember that the birth of Jesus is the reason why we celebrate Christmas!

Getting back to the mitten

2008-12-25T23:23:00.001-08:00

My flight home to Michigan (from ATL) was a little eventful. In the morning, I had tried to get on a earlier flight (6:55PM) that day and no luck, I was unfortunately stuck with the flight at 9:40PM. But..... then I got a nice little phone call from Delta that I had been upgraded on the 6:55PM flight. I was super confused but then realized accidentally booked two flights that day, so oops! I was on the 6:55PM and that is all that mattered. Shocking, (not really), but my flight was delayed. The roads were terrible in Michigan at the time. My flight had landed, but my sister, mom, and cousin didn't get to the airport until about an hour after I landed. On the way home it wasn't much better, the roads were bad and we didn't get home until 4AM. Yikes, so I was travelling for 11.5 hours! Oh and we didnt have time to stop at Coney, so no Greek Salad for me:-(

In Christmas Eve day I had to finish some Christmas shopping and some wrapping (I know this is not surprising)

Our evening Christmas Eve plans changed a little when some of the family came down with the flu so we had to reschedule in January. Since Christmas Eve is my mom's birthday, we took her out to dinner. Then we went to the Church service at 11PM. The service was great and we sang my favorite Christmas song ("What Child is This?") so I was happy about that! Then we came home and called it a night b/c Santa was coming!!!!

Holiday Parties minues snow...fa la la la la la la la la

2008-12-25T23:21:00.000-08:00

Garry and his roommates held a holiday party. Somehow, not sure how, but between 30 and 40 people showed up to the house. Even there was no snow, the night was still festive! And it was complete with egg nog and flippy cup!

So did Garry call Rich or Rich call Garry to let each other know what they were wearing? :-)

Saturday night was the Accenture Delivery Center holiday party. I found my perfect dress a few weekends before! When my mom and I went down to my Nanas to see what was in the estate sale, I saw the bridesmaid dress that my mom wore in my aunts wedding and thought maybe I could do something with it if i change it up a bit. The dress was warn in a December wedding so the color was perfect for a Christmas party. I needed to change the dress a tad, so I had it hemmed short (it was originally long). So, all I had to do was dress it up with some vintage-ie jewelry and voila. That day a friend from work and I went to go get our makeup done (we both said we were buying one thing from the store -- ha that didn't go far. I walked out of Nordstrom's with new lipstick and tinted moisturizer, but I love both of them so I can't complain. I would recommend the tinted moisturizer especially in the cold winter months.

I went home on Sunday and was in Chicago for a few days, but I had to work in ATL the following weekend as our systems were going live. Basically, we had to take the system down to make all of our updates over the weekend so it was up and running on Monday morning" - Sounds simple but its a little more complicated than that. It was a long weekend, I worked about 18 hours on Sat. I am glad it is over!!! After that weekend all I was looking forward to was coming home for Christmas! (and of course finishing my Christmas shopping)

Ugh...26, Really?

2008-12-25T23:20:00.001-08:00

So the most important event that happened during the first part of the month was obviously my birthday.

The weekend of my birthday my mom and dad came into Chicago for the night. (It was part of their anniversary gift) During the day on Friday my mom and I did some shopping. For my birthday, my parents got me the Van Gogh "Almond Blossom" Painting, which I love.

At night we went to a Argentinian restaurant called "Tango Sur." After dinner we went to to Zanies. Both comedians were great! We got there (not late even) and of course we were in the front row. I know we all were a little nervous but we didn't really get made fun of Saturday morning we had breakfast and then went downtownt to the John Hancock building and had drinks at the 96th floor signature lounge. I love it up there and I especially love to take people up there when they are visiting. After we ran other errands (including picking out a bookcase that Garry later carried down the street and put together:-) We also finished decorating the Christmas Tree! I wasnt home to enjoy it as much as I would like but I enjoyed putting it up with my mom.

On Saturday night my friends and I went to Quartinos for dinner. Quartinos is one of my favorite Italian restaurants in the city. It has alot of "small plate" dishes so everyone can try a little of something. Oh, and they also have the best house wine there!

After dinner we headed to Martini Park. I tried a few margaritas and I think the most unique was the Strawberry Basil. I would definitely recommend that one. Thanks John:-)

November Recap

2008-12-25T18:21:00.001-08:00

Starting of November had me back in ATL for 3 weeks!

Wake Forest Homecoming - It was time to venture to North Carolina to an ACC football game. Wake Forest is located in Winston Salem. It was a cute downtown and reminded me almost of the downtown of South Haven.

Blue Ridge Mountains - Eight of us ventured to the mountains of Georgia for the weekend for some time to relax and be with friends. The cabin was gorgeous! The first night we were able to start a fire but on the second night it had rained all day and unfortunately the fire was just not happening. We played alot of board games. Catch Phrase, Categories, and Sequence were all on the top of the list. I learned how to play Sequence and now I am addicted. All of the couples were in charge of one meal and it worked out great. Friday we had Crepes for dinner brought to us from Drew and Laurance and Sat Garry and I made London broil, chicken, and brushetta. (inlcuded a picutre just for mom)For lunch, Shama and Mike made homemade chili and breakfast was presented to us by the Mullens'.

Thanksgiving - I went home on the 23rd for Thanksgiving and I was at home for a whole week. It was great! I love that I was able to spend that much time at home. I went to breakfast with my grandparents one morning at Big Boy. I love spending as much time with them as I can when I am home. Of course, it was my sisters first Thanksgiving when she was 21 so she went to the bar with me and my friends. It was so nice having her there!

During the time at home we had Melissa's baby shower. It was a great time and she got awesome gifts! We all can't wait for baby Joslynn (still TBD) to come!

Here are a few pics from decorating the Christmas tree back in ATL...

October Recap Part 2

2008-12-25T17:46:00.001-08:00

Leaving Detroit…. Well I guess I never thought that I would say this, but I was really sad that I had my last few days in Detroit. The week of 10/20 was my last week working in Detroit for the current project that I am on (which I have been on since 4/30/07) Its crazy to think that when I first was told that I was going to be working in Detroit, I didn’t want to come back. Working in Detroit has been great over the last (almost 2 years) I was able to see my fair share of Detroit Sport games, concerts, see my friends, enjoy a real greek salad from coney, drive my car (which I no longer have), and I have built new relationships (and one is my new roommate – who would have thought). What I won't forget is the great people who work in the RenCen/Marriott. Charles, the security guard, is awesome. I even saw him as I was walking in my last week and he gave me a hug and asked me where I have been. Another person is Pat who works for the Marriott front desk. When I call and ask for a wake up call she already knows I want two. (shocking -- I know) SAnd since I have been traveling to ATL and I am not in Detriot that much anymore, she always asks where I have been. And I really wont forget those poor bell boys who have had to knock on my hotel room a few mornings when I managed to sleep through my wake up calls.
Well enough of that, I will still remain on this project until January and then I will be moving on, but who knows what project and what city..that is all the fun part! And I had to get pics before I left!

My friends and I had a pumpkin carving party. All of our pumpkins turned out great! I carved the Lions logo (with a little help from my tee shirt and Jason. During the week I was at home and home for the week. Nothing too excited but I managed to finished the season of '24' and now I cant wait until the new season starts!

Halloween - I was having a break down when I couldn't find a sash for my costume, but once again, my mom pulled through. She went to a friends at 10PM (oops I was on CST time and forgot about the change) to pick up her friends daughters vest to then over night for me! It finally came on Friday around 5Pm and we had to go to the Halloween party at 8PM so it was cutting it close a little. The vest was awesome and definitily original.

October Recap Part 1

2008-12-25T09:37:00.001-08:00

I have totallay been slacking on blogging. (My Aunt Bev has been bothering me to blog, so here you go, better late than never...my October recap Part 1!)

Fall is by far my favorite season of the year! The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling off, and its football season.

At the beginning of the month I worked from home for the week. The weather was great and I was so happy to be in the city. I was able to go grocery shopping which is always fun to do when I am home for the week but actually quite a production in the city. That week I realized that I was getting a little tired from all of the traveling and just happy to be home. During the week there was still a possibility that the Cubs and White Sox could be in the world series; however, we know that didnt work out.
"Meet the Laneys" - On Saturday the 4th I took an early flight to ATL to meet Garry's parents. We went out to dinner at Two Urban Licks and then went to watch some of the college football games at Taco Mac. We went out to breakfast with them the next morning (already my mom was a little jeleous that his parents got two meals and mine had one.) It was a pretty relaxing weekend and nice to meet them.
Somewhere over the rainbow... There was a rainbow on the way to work one morning, so I thought I would take a few pictures. My mom always told me growing up that when you see a rainbow, it is a rememberance from God that there will never be a flood again. Genesis: 12 - 15: And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: 13 I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. 14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life.

Red wings opening night! It is that time of year again. The Redwings had thier first home opener. They were facing off the Toronto MapleLeads but unfortunaly lost 3 - 2.

Bank of America Chicago Marathon - I flew back to Chicago just in time for the marathon. One of our friends Chuck was running and we all had teeshirts made for chuckk that had his pciture on the front and on the back we had "Go Chuck Go" Of course, Chuch threw a marathon party at Durkins.

Holden Beach, North Carolina - The following week I flew to Atlanta and worked remotly and then went to Garry's family's beachouse in North Carolina. It was very realaxibg. We went to a couple of seafood restaurants, played boared games and caught up on 24. It was a little cold and rainy but nice for deserved and over due relaxing weekend.

Thanksgiving football tradition

2008-11-27T10:21:00.000-08:00

I was told that the Lions should no longer play on Thanksgiving. Even though we are TERRIBLE now, let's not forget where it started. As we eat our traditional thanksgiving feast we are going to watch our traditional football game.

Four generations of Detroiters have been a proud part of the American celebration of Thanksgiving. The relationship between Detroit and Thanksgiving dates back to 1934 when owner G.A. Richards scheduled a holiday contest between his first-year Lions and the Chicago Bears. Some 74 years later, fans throughout the State of Michigan have transformed an annual holiday event into the single greatest tradition in the history of American professional team sports. Indeed, if football is America’s Passion, Thanksgiving football is Detroit’s Passion.
No other team in professional sports can claim to be as much a part of an American holiday as can the Detroit Lions with Thanksgiving. When you think of Thanksgiving, you think of football and the Lions.

The Thanksgiving tradition is older than 24 current NFL franchises, and Detroit’s passionate affair with the annual Thanksgiving Day game is evidenced by its growing popularity. Year-after-year, Detroiters look forward to not only spending Thanksgiving with their families, but they also enjoy sharing that time with the Lions.

Mr. and Mrs. Fernelius tie the knot.

2008-11-25T18:55:00.000-08:00

Jill is one of my best friends from college and I remember the of the first dates that she went on with Scott our junior year. So now, almost 4 years later, they were getting married.

On Friday Garry and I went to rent the car from MDW airport which took forever ( I should have just thought to pick up the car on Thursday at ORD airport when we both flew in from ATL) Ugh. Well, now I know from last time. Finally we got on the road and we met my parents, grandparents, sister, and cousin at Applebees in Grand Rapids for a quick lunch before we continued the trip to TC. It was the first time Garry was meeting the parents. Lunch was great and everyone had a good time. I think my mom had to get use to the "Yes Maams" from Garry. It makes her feel old and she doesn't like to hear ma'am but it is how people are raised in the south. My mom also enjoyed bringing up all of the "My mom said" stories (i.e. how I thought hurricanes got their name and why we changed our clocks for daylight savings. On the drive up we found a place that sold pasties (basically pot pies) and he tried one of those for the first time as well as Vernors! Note - Vernors is produced in Michigan and is really only found in MI and its the only pop that I drink so I am a little obsessed when I can have it.

On Friday night Garry and I meet up with Jill and couple of her friends at the Park Place Hotel Martini Lounge. It is the place to be in TC if you want to see the city views.

Saturday we went to the farmers market next to the lake. I found the best Cherry Salsa and Cherry Vinaigrette dressing. Then we were off to the wedding. The wedding was at the A-Ga-Ming golf course which over looked Torch Lake. It was a warm fall day and couldn't have been more perfect for them. Jill's two yorkies were also in the wedding and I was holding one of them during the ceremony and of course she peed on me:-) Luckily, she was like a 4 lb dog so there wasn't much. After the ceremony we had a late lunch at the reception.

After the wedding we headed back into TC and shopped downtown at the Cherry Republic store where they have EVERYTHING in cherry. We tasted a few cherry wines and of course I did not walk out empty handed. After some shopping we headed out to Grand Traverse bay to have an appetizer and a cocktail on one of the highest floors in the casino so there were great views of the north bay. We then headed to Turtle Creek. I am not much of a gambler, but Garry loves his black jack tables so I just watched. After a while he told me I could play on his dime, so of course I started to play.

Sunday, we drove back to Chicago. Nothing too exciting on the way back but we had to make like 3 stops to find me Vernors (in a bottle). We did not end of finding vernors 6-packs in a bottle, so I had to settle for cans. I love that stuff!

It was a great week and I am glad that Garry was able to see Michigan! (Even though on the way up to TC I pointed to a couple of things (silo and a propane tank) and asked him if they had those, I guess they have those all over:-)

I wish Scott and Jill the best and thank them for a great weekend!

Back in ATL for the week (Week of 9/22)

2008-11-11T19:31:00.000-08:00

Had fun in ATL this week - Since I haven't blogged in a while and I am WAY over due I was just trying to bullet point what I remembered from that week

Garry, Taylor, Ingrid and I went to trivia night. When we got there we realized it was 80's trivia which pretty much meant we didn't have a good chance of winning. I think we managed to get 3 our approximately 20 questions right.
We went bowling on Wednesday night and I had my highest scoring game ever. I broke 200 with my handicap (without handicap I think it was 131)
During the week the news came out that Millen was no longer president of the Lions franchise. Woo hoo. Hopefully in a couple years we can have a better team and win some more games!

Home sweet Ionia for the weekend (9/19)

2008-11-09T18:56:00.000-08:00

So Friday after chopping my hair I was off on a train to MI to see the fam. My train ended up being delayed.

My dad, sister, and Kiara picked me up from the train station in Kazoo. It was great to see both of them and Kiara. I miss her soooo much. She has always freaked out on the express way and always feels comfortable if she sits on your shoulder (yes - like a bird). Steph tries to train her not to do this but I always give in:-)

After getting home my mom, sis, and Melissa went to Walmart. I totally stocked up on anything and everything and ended up spending $125 - yikes. I never get to just wondering around stores, so I enjoyed it!

550 AM Saturday morning - I was up and ready to go fishing. Not talkative and chirpy but I was awake. It was just my dad and I headed to Crystal Lake! And it was a little chilly! I totally didn't come prepared (only had flip flops for shoes so i was cold - but when the sun started to rise it got warmer (but unfortunately it seemed that the fish weren't bitting anymore) So I caught a total of 4 that day and I think my dad caught about 6 or 7 (I probably could have caught more but i decided to take a little nap on the back of the boat:-) - I caught a couple of small mouths, large mouth and a pike! (and I will admit I did freak out a little when I had to grab the fish and it did fall - so sorry fishy but I am sure he/she is fine now. And since the pike have teeth I had to hold it by its stomach....ewww...

My dad and I were on a bit of a schedule b/c I had to get back to ionia in time for my nail appt! A nice mani and pedi after finishing makes for a great day. So my mom and I headed out to my favorite nail salon. It was nice and relaxing and definitly well deserved.

Saturday night we cooked for the family and my grand parents. It was great to see them. They have recently moved to an apartment complex with other seniors and I was unable to help them with their move so I felt bad. But after dinner I went to see the new place and its nice. I saw my cousin while I was there so it was a good night.

Once I got home Jared called and we went up to Gregorys for a few drinks. It was nice to catch up. And my dad and I had gotten in a little 'tiff' on Friday and when I talked to Jared about it he talked some sense back into me and I realized I was wrong too and I wasn't happy with the way that I had acted with a few things that weekend. We leave completely different lives (big city vs small town) and I just needed to realize that things are just different in both.

Sunday we were aiming to go to church but we all slept in! During the afternoon before heading to the airport my mom cooked up the corn dogs that she has got at the Ionia Free Fair ( in July) she had froze them b/c those are my favorite and let me tell you they were amazing!!!! She also made pancake batter fried blue gill (another favorite!) Then my mom, my sis, and Melissa were off to DTW (they were all dropping me off:-)

I got my hair did...(9/19)

2008-10-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

Wednesday (9/17) back in Chicago I had dinner with Robyn to catch up! I also decided at dinner that I was going to chop my hair. I had got my hair cut in July and wasn't sure I really like the layers in my haircut so I decided it would be best to just chop it and see how I would like it. I called to Thursday to make an appt for Friday - yet to find out I already had an appt that I had booked at my last appt, so I knew it was meant to be. Thursday I finally was able to catch up with my room mate over dinner and then we came back to the house and had a few more glasses of wine to catch up. It was great!

I will probably grow my hair back out but needed a change. I don't know when the last time my hair was this short but so far I like it!

Short Trip to ATL (9/13)

2008-10-27T04:32:00.001-07:00

So on Saturday I headed off to the airport to stay in ATL a few days (hadn't seen Garry since I left for holiday). In the meantime while I traveled to the airport Robyn picked up Steph and took her to the train station. She said it was freaky b/c she looked over and Steph looked like me and sounded like me but it wasn't. Ha Ha. (We sound so much alike and even mom cant tell us apart sometimes)

The commute to ORD that day was horrendous. I left 2.5 hours prior to my flight b/c I was taking the L. So I said goodbye to my sis and went off to find a cab in the pouring rain. I got a cab after waiting about 5 minutes in the rain:-) I had the cab take me to the closest L stop, there i waited approx another 10 minutes for the train went 3 stops just to get off the train, get on a shuttle bus and back on a couple stops ahead (due to construction - which i did check the website prior to leaving and it wasn't listed) So, we get to the Rosemont stop (one stop until ORD) and find out that the no traffic from the express way or the the train will not be able to go any further into ORD b/c of flooding. So appox 100 people were at the Rosemont stop not knowing what to do. In the mean time I found that my originally 1140 flight was delayed until 130. So not knowing what to do I waited around a few more minutes and saw a Home Sweet Marriott shuttle, I decided to hop on. I went to the closest Marriott hotel b/c I really didn't know what to do at that point. I hung out in the lobby for about 1/2 hour with other people that had been stranded. We got word that they were letting people back into ORD so I hopped on the shuttle and finally got to the airport around 1200 (I left my apartment at 9 - so it had already been a long day!)

Since I had some time to blow in the airport while I waited for my delayed flight I decided to straigten my hair in the bathroom. Ha Ha. It was frizzy from the rain and had nothing better to do although I did get some strange looks. I finally made to ATL around 4. I was planning on meeting Garry at our "normal" location but he surprised me and came into the airport. After you get off the escalaters in ATL there is an area where people stand to greet the arrivals and I totally wasn't paying attention. I was focused on where I needed to go and jammin to "American Boy" and then I saw someone darting at me from the corner of my eye and it was him! I know it wont happen often, but it was nice:-)

That night we went to dinner at BWs - for some reason I had been craving it and it was delicious. Sunday we watched football (the lions lost to Green Bay and it was TERRIBLE) The rest of the evening consisted of football. Around 930EST the announcement was made about Bank of America acquiring Merril Lynch and Lehman Brothers going bankrupt. At the time I didn't realize the financial services industry was going to get much worse.

So it was pretty much a relaxing few days in ATL and then I headed back to Chicago on Tuesday night.

I can't sleep and I found this fun questionairre my mom sent me..so why not fill it out at 2AM...

2008-10-01T00:09:00.001-07:00

Where is your cell phone? - Night Stand

Where is your significant other? My boyfriend is probably sleeping since its 330AM EST and I just realized I don't like the term significant other...it sounds weird.

Your hair? pony tail (little but still can pull it up since i got it chopped)

Your mother? incredible

Your father? genuine

Your favorite thing? hmmm, I have a lot of favorite things..right now the fall season, but I also love being on a lake in the spring/summer.

Your dream last night? Well I started to say my prayers before I feel asleep and then I started dreaming that i was talking to my sister..haha and that is all I remember...

Your dream/goal? happiness

The room you're in? My bedroom - I cant sleep!

Your hobby? When I think of hobby I think of arts and crafts, or something like gardening (all of which I dont like), but I would say traveling (for vacation especially), pilates, running, camping, and i would love to learn more languages if I could, and also going to the beach/lake, going to sporting events, and shopping (especially just wondering around Target when I get the chance)

Your fear? potatoes...ewwww

Where do you want to be in 6 years? I don't know where I want to be in 6 months! and I am finally in Chicago for 6 straight days so definitely cant not answer the question to 6 years...

Where were you last night? Home!

What you're not? shy

One of your wish list items? that my family would come to see me in Chicago ...and a cure for breast cancer (I was watching Oprah today and Chrstina Applegate was on talking about her story and its so scary - she was only 33 when she was diagnosed and since I have already had a lump removed (non cancerous) and have the history of breast cancer in my family it definitely is scary.

Where have you lived? Ionia (I-Town) 18 years, Kalamazoo 5 years, Detroit 1 year and 3 months, Chicago 1 year and 7 months (yes that adds up to 25 years and 10 months - yikes!!!

The last thing you did? got out of bed to go get my computer b/c i couldn't sleep

What are you wearing? pjs

Your TV? The Today Show and Fox News and I cant wait for LOST to come back!

Your pet? Kiara but her aunt stephanie has custody at this time while her mommy travels...kiara is lucky to have a good aunt!

Your computer? HP

Your mood? not sure..tired and stressed

Missing someone? my family, Garry and kiara

Your car? now that question is just mean...just turned my jeep in..does Delta Airlines or Chicago CTA count?

What did yo be when you wanted to grow up? A business woman like my mom (and seriously I never went through the stage of wanting to be a teacher or a doctor - I have always know that I want go be in the business (financial) industry

Something you're not wearing? socks..I cant stand wearing socks to bed.

Favorite store? Target

Favorite Song? Free Bird

Favorite Food? Movie Theater Popcorn

Your summer? Busy and it went way to fast!

Your favorite color? Red

When is the last time you laughed? Today

Last time you cried? Today

Quote? Dont ever start a sentacnce with " I should have"

Good Bye Jeep:-(

2008-09-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

It was a sad day on Friday (9/12). I finally had to turn my Jeep in so now I am officially car-less. I leased the car in June 2006 and was finally excited to get rid of the Alero which I had through college and pretty much everything went wrong with that car. So in March of 2007 I moved to Chicago and no longer really needed the car since my current form of transportation in the city is cabs, buses, trains, and planes.

Since I was working in Detroit the week of 9/8 I decided to take one last road trip in my jeep. One last time of filling up the tank $64.71.

I drove from Detroit to Lansing to pick up Steph and then we drove to Chicago. I turned my jeep in on Friday and it was a little sad; however, having the extra money is not going to be so sad! We finally got back to Chicago around 10PM and it took us about 20 - 25 minutes to find a parking space, so I remember why I didn't have a car in the city.

So Friday we drove to the dealership and turned int he car (27 months and 31,000 miles later). Due to Stephanie worried that we were going to run out of gas I put $5 in the car. Turning it in was a quick process and I even get to pay Chrysler of "Return Fee" of $484, isn't that nice. So as we turned it in, we went out into the rain to find the nearest bus and headed home using the lovely Chicago public transportation.

Oh and for my birthday this year I don't have to pay the State of Michigan anything for owning a vehicle. Woo hoo. I can finally get myself a real present instead of plates (although I really only started paying for my plates 2 years ago - thanks to the Bank of Mom and Dad". Which speaking of, my mom said she was also glad that I don't have a car b/c she no longer has to pay the insurance on my car. I have a feeling when I get another car (if ever) then I will have to pay my own insurance, being an adult and all.

One last hug!

Bye!

And now its official, Bus #76 heading home.

Leaving on a jet plane......

2008-08-28T19:19:00.001-07:00

It's time to use all of my frequent flyer miles and hotel points!!

Sara and I are leaving for Europe tomorrow! First I fly to Detroit and I am going to have lunch with my family and then our flight leaves for AMS (Amsterdam) at 830EST. We arrive in AMS around 11AM Saturday morning. We will spend time in AMS (staying at the Flying Pig hostel) until Tuesday and then we will be flying to London. On Tuesday night we will be using my hard earned Marriott points and will get a nice shower in a nice hotel! We will be staying with Sara's cousin in London until Saturday. On Saturday we will be going to the burbs of London to meet her family. On Sunday we will be coming back to London (using hard earned Marriott points again) and on Monday morning we will be flying back to the "dirty D".

So we decided to go the back pack route (easy to travel with but a little awkward). I amazed myself b/c I have packed for 10 days and manged to have some room for souvenirs.

Its been so busy this week with catching up for work and getting ready to go, but I am not realizing its finally here!

I will also not have a phone for 10 days so I am definitely going to have a little separation anxiety and my lap top.

It was a great week at home (as always). Robyn, Jacquelyn, and I went to dinner last night and Sara and I went to dinner tonight. Its always good to see the girls!

I realized that the Detroit Lions play the Atlanta Falcons on 9/7 - I am so bummed b/c I wanted to watch the game with Garry so I could see his face when the Lions have their first game of the season victory win and I can collect on my bet. I guess I will just have to collect when I see him when I get back (which seems like forever) I am really going to miss him, 3 weeks is a long time! Go Lions!!
Well I am off to get some more work done and and finishing up last minute packing!

Hopefully I get to blog a little when I am over there but I took a journal with me just in case....
And thanks to my family who are praying for my safe travels.

Last weekend of the summer in the city...and celebrating the promotion

2008-08-25T06:32:00.000-07:00

I just realized that this past weekend was my last weekend of the summer in the city. I will be leaving for Europe on Friday! I am stressing out b/c I have sooo much to do! I have to pack all of my stuff in a large backpack which is gong to totally cramp my style:-) So, this week I will be finishing up packing and getting ready for the trip.

Garry and I flew to Chicago on Thursday night. We had a late night dinner at a dinner up the road b/c we got in late from the airport.

During the week I received the official notice that I was promoted to consultant which made my week! On Friday, I had flowers delivered and I assumed they were from my mom b/c she tends to send flowers but this time they were from Garry! He ordered them during the week so I would get them on Friday and be able to enjoy them this week while I am at home working. They are really pretty. Of course, no roses b/c I don't like those they are too cliche and too predictable. The arrangement consisted of Gerber Daisies (my favorite), tulips, and lillies. It was very thoughtful and definitely made my day.

Friday night we went to dinner at Sapori(http://www.saporitrattoria.net/) to celebrate my promotion. It was a small Italian restaurant and we were able to sit outside and the ambiance was great! The food was also really good. The lobster ravioli amazing!
On Saturday we had brunch with Robyn and Chuck and our favorite brunch place and of course some mimosa to go with.

After brunch we ventured out to Wrigleyville. We wanted to go to the cubs game but it was supposed to rain and decided not to get tickets and just hang out during the game in the area and played cards.

Sunday we did nothing but watch Lost! I finally caught up to the recent season, so now I have to wait for the new season like everyone else! Garry left for the airport around 5:30:-( It was hard to see him go....

It was a great weekend for the last weekend of the summer in the city.

So, now I am back to packing and I am pondering if it is ok to wear white in London after Labor Day? I wonder if they have a "rule" like ours...

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas..including my blackberry and my camera

2008-08-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

Thursday marked the beginning of the annual trip to Vegas celebrating Decade Four of Don Henessey. Kurt and a group started going to Vegas about 4 years ago and the group has grown since. The group approached 50 this year which was a bit crazy.

We stayed at the Flamingo as always. This year we upgraded to a newly remodeled room which was much niceer than last year.

Andrea, Katie and Jacquelyn joined the group this year and we all had a great time. I manged not to miss my flight this year so that is definitily a plus!

On Thursday we went to Mandalay bay. The club was Micks. It was the meet and greet night and this is when I lost my phone and camera on the dance floor. So the rest of the weekend, I had to keep borrowing phones and I think everyone was annoyed by the end of the trip.

Picture of me Friday morning already missing my blackberry:-(

On the way to the pool observing the birds in the pond.

Friday night we went to LAX which is in the Luxor. We had a separte room for all of us and it got a little packed to Robyn, Jim and I went to Moon. Moon is my favorite club there. The roof of the club opens up to outside.

Saturday we went to "The Bank" which was in the Belliagao. The club was awesome and we danced all night. We finished the night off at Moon again.

It was so great to see Jim (adopted big brother) over the weekend. I havent seen him in a year and of course I cried when I left him. (I had great pictures on the camera that I lost!)

I obviously left out alot of details and stories but what happnes in Vegas stays in Vegas:-)

Tigers Game, Dave Matthews Band, great week in the city...

2008-08-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

This has been a great week in the city. I have been working from home all week and its great to be here. My room mate and I went out to dinner and I was able to catch up with my friends.

On Thursday we went to the Tigers game in Chicago b/c they were playing the White Sox. The Tigers finally pulled a win off so we were able to leave the stadium on a good note.

Friday night I caught up with Chuck at Durkins and Duffys.
Saturday was the Dave Matthews concert in Wisconsin. The RV and the driver (Rich) picked us up at John's house around 3PM. We then spent the next few hours driving to Wisconsin for the outdoor concert. Once there we set up shop and started tailgating and grilling out. Even though Jody and I lost the group we still had a blast at the concert. On the way home pretty much everyone fell asleep. We finally arrived back in the city at 4AM. What a long day. Here are some pics from the event. My friend said that the picture of Jody and I looked like "The Pieta" by Michelangelo

Had a great time in Atlanta, but it is good to be in home sweet Chicago for now.

2008-08-03T22:11:00.000-07:00

During the week Garry and I went to see the movie 'Step Brothers' that stars Will Farrell. The movie definitely had some funny parts but I think Garry and I both agree that it would be just a good rental. But at least we were able to eat popcorn at the theater. I think that is really the main reason why we both even wanted to go to the movie theater.

I attempted running outside in ATL during the week. I waited until about 8 at night b/c it is sooo HUMID. I took Rocky to keep me company. He was definitely not used to running that long. But it was nice to get outside and run there.

On Thursday we had a work event at a sushi place. I think people from work are slowly catching on that Garry and I are dating, which will make things much easier to deal with.

Friday night Garry and I cooked dinner for his roommate and some other friends. I tried London Broil for the first time, which was really good. I also made my favorite salad (spinach, dried cherries, walnuts, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette) After that we went to meet the wedding party and other of his friends at a new bar called Fado. It's 4 levels and it was packed.

Saturday, Garry had a soccer game and was a bad girlfriend and did go:-( I decided to go to his friends pool instead and just wait for him to get there..I need to get some sun before the wedding and it was too hot to sit outside and watch a soccer game down there. The humidity is terrible!

The wedding was at 7PM and on the way to the Church we saw big storm clouds. As the grandmothers were walking down the isle the power started flickering and it finally went out. After 20 minutes they decided to go on with the ceremony in the candle light. It was actually pretty. Long Catholic mass though...The reception was very nice and the food was delicious. After the reception we went to the same bar as Garry's birthday where they had live music which is always fun.

Before I left for the airport on Sunday we went to church and then had dinner at "5 guys" It is known for hamburgers and is delicious. They have fries with malt vinegar at the fair and they have shelled peanuts...it was a great dinner!

I finally made it back to Home Sweet Chicago last night. It feels good to be home! On the cab ride home to my apartment there is a great view of the city that I see every time I come home from the airport and it was a great feeling to see that b/c I knew I was going to be home for a week.

Today, I was able to go to the grocery store! It is always a fun trip when you don't have a car and its raining and the bus doesn't come, so once again ended up carrying y groceries all the way back. Fun times in the city!

Great Weekend in the City.

2008-07-30T16:02:00.000-07:00

So last weekend really made me realize why we Chicagoians struggle through the cold winters in Chicago and that is to live for the summer festivities.

Friday night Robyn, Sara, and I went to dinner to catch up and I wanted to go somewhere to watch the Tigers game. There is a restaurant on the corner of my street “Avenue Tavern” (http://www.avenuetavern.com/) that has good food and it is “Michigan owned” (They even have Coney Dogs on the menu:) Unfortunately, the Tigers ended up losing against the Sox that night.

Saturday, Sara and I went to breakfast at “Stella’s”. Stella’s is a neighborhood dinner close to my house. After Stella's we ran some errands and did some shopping in the area. We planned on going to the Lincoln Taste Fest later in the afternoon. Chicago has many street festivals during the summer all over many of the neighborhoods. I went to the festival around 6PM and the street was just packed. There were multiple bands (about 5-6) that were playing a variety of music. There were a ton of food vendors as well as local vendors in the area selling arts/crafts items. I stumbled upon a booth that was selling wallets/belt and leather accessories and I noticed they had quite a few “Detroit” accessories. I ended up buying a change purse with the “Spirit of Detroit” on the purse. I asked him if he still lives there and his response was “yes, someone has to”. This made me a little sad when I was reminded that so many people are moving out of Michigan. The festival ended up being a really good time and I even ran into a few friends from WMU (dancing in the street at one of the bar's booths where they had a DJ set up) that I haven’t seen in forever, so we went out in Wrigleyville for a little bit afterwards.

Oh and of course we have to get a pic with the CPD:-)
On Sunday, I was very productive! I couldn’t believe it, I usually dread Sundays b/c that means I have to pack and get everything in order to fly out the next day. But Sara, Robyn, and I went to breakfast at “The Bagel” another good breakfast place in the neighborhood. Then I went home started a load of laundry, did pilates, went to the gym and ran 3 miles (while watching the Tigers game so that was a plus), and packed for the next week. It was a very productive day! On Sundays it is pretty traditional go out to dinner with the girls (and Chuck sometimes) and this Sunday we went and tried a different sushi place. They had very different sushi rolls and most of us agreed that we liked our “normal” place better. The night ended at Murphy’s. We had a couple of glasses of wine on the patio out front, had good conversation, and enjoyed people watching. It was a great way to wrap up a fun weekend.

Now off to ATL for the week. I am staying the weekend for a wedding.

Long week......

2008-07-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

Since I had to work the weekend of 7/19 I was able to stay in the city for a few days during the week. It was nice to see my friends and relax at home. I was able to go to the beach on Tuesday afternoon which was well overdue. I love Lake Michigan!

On Thursday morning I flew to ATL, as I would experience my first go-live. So, basically the project that I am working consists of migrating computer systems between companies and a go-live is basically when they “flip the switch on,” so there are many tasks up until that point that have to be completed. I was very disappointed that this weekend had to be the weekend of go-live. This is the weekend I go home every year for the fair. The fair is a big deal in my hometown and it is a time where everyone gets together. I have been going to the fair as long as I can remember. I'm really disappointed that I am missing a corn dog, french fries with malt vinegar, lemonade and an elephant ear. God bless my mom, she is getting a couple of corn dogs for me and is going to freeze them until I get home. I also am disappointed that I will not be able to ride the "Zipper" It is my favorite ride at the fair.

On Friday, I was able to layout at the Marriott pool and relax before the long day on Saturday which was nice. Garry, his roommate and his girlfriend, and I grilled out on Friday night and played a couple games of Scene It and then called it a night.

Saturday was a very long work day (started at 8AM and lasted until 130AM – yes 16 ½ hours). It was an interesting experience. On Sunday we went into the office for a couple of hours and then the management team took us out to dinner.

During the week in ATL I went bowling again on Garry’s league. I definitely did much better than last week, so I was happy about that. Yesterday, Garry and I had dinner before I left for the airport. We went to a restaurant called “Shout” in Midtown. The food was tapas with Mediterranean influence. They had cabanas outside for seating (where the picture was taken) and it was very relaxing. The food, ambiance, and of course the company was very nice. I ended up back in the city around 1130 PM and if definitely felt good to be home after a long week!

The dirty dirty (ATL) and the dirty (DET) all in one week.

2008-07-25T07:35:00.000-07:00

Monday morning (7/7) came bright and early. I usually take the 7AM flight but Garry’s ticket was for the 6AM flight, so I was nice and decided to fly back with him, but yikes 6AM….ugh

On Wednesday we went bowling and I didn’t do as well as I did the last time. I am not even going to mention my scores for the last 2 games, but my first game I got 136 – which is only one under from what I had the previous time but the last 2 games were ridiculous) I used to make fun of him for being on a bowling league, but actually it is really fun. On Friday Garry took me to the Atlanta Fish Market. It was so good and we ate way way to much food. The fish is flown in 3 times a day and it was fresh and very delicious.

I left early Sat morning and flew back to the ‘D’ to go to a Tigers game with Sara and a few friends from the LaSalle days. It was so much fun being back at Comerica Park. Sara and I stopped at the dollar store to pick up some orgnge and blue pom poms. I was able to see “My Tiger” (Joel Zumaya) pitch so that pretty much made my day. On Sunday morning, Sara’s mom cooked us breakfast and I was headed back to Chicago on Amtrak. I was excited to spend the next 4 days in Chicago b/c I knew I was going back to ATL on Thursday to work all weekend.

Podcasts

2008-07-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

So, I was riding in the elevator yesterday and this guy was listening to his ipod and I thought I heard something that sounded like an ESPN sportscast. I asked whim what he was listening too and he said an ESPN Podcast. So, after I asked a few people in the office I figured out what they were. A podcast is a media file that you can download. They have various podcosts available on iTunes to download daily. AND....these are all free. I think this is the best thing that I have learned this week. So far, I have subscribed to Bill O'Riley, Fox News Radio, ESPN Radio Daily, Mike and Mike, and The Wall Street Journal. These will be convenient to download and just listen to on the plane or in the airport. Woo Hoo!

Fourth of July in Chicago

2008-07-15T05:52:00.001-07:00

For the fourth of July weekend, Garry decided to make another trip to Chicago. Thursday night we went out to dinner with my room mate and her boyfriend to a really good Mexican restaurant on the corner of my street. Then we headed out to Wrigleyville for the rest of the night.

Friday, we went to the beach. It was colder than what I thought it would be and really packed but we decided to go to Castaways (restaurant/bar on the beach) and we sat on that deck with our towels and it was much nicer. Friday night, Robyn had a BBQ on her roof deck. It turned out great! We all made home made sangria and there was plenty of good food. Her deck has awesome views to the city and to the lake. We watched some fireworks that were going off at Belmont Harbor. Then, from one angle of the building we could see the fireworks that were going off in all of the burbs. After Robyn's we went to Murphy's and then called it an early night.

On Saturday we went on the Untouchable Tours. The tour takes you to the famous gangster hit spots and hot spots including the St. Valentine's Day Massacre site, Holy Name Cathedral, the Biograph Theatre (the ambush site of John Dillinger, where the "Lady in Red" betrayed him) and the flower shop of Capone's North Side rival Dion O'Banion (who Capone "rubbed out"). It was neat to see all the different areas of Chicago at the same time.

After the tour, since we were downtown, we decided to go to the Signature Room for a drink and to see the view of the skyline. I went into the bathroom and took pics of the view and showed Garry the pics. He was very disappointed when he went to the guys bathroom and came back with a picture with no view. (Below - Women's restroom view on the left/Men's on the right)

After the tour we ended up going shopping and then headed to Murphs to meet up with Vic, Robyn, and Sara and we played cards.

Sunday we relaxed and went to dinner at I took Garry to my favorite sushi restaurant for his birthday gift. Oh and over the weekend, I found out that there is a way to get to the top of my roof from the back stairs and you can see the view of the city. It isn't necessarily a roof deck, pretty much just the roof, but people go up there all the time. The view is awesome b/c you can also see a small part of Wrigley Stadium, the Sears Tower, and Trump tower.

The weekend in Chicago for the Fourth and really fun, I was not excited about the 6AM flight to ATL on Monday morning.

First full week in ATL

2008-07-14T23:54:00.000-07:00

So, the week of June 23 (I know I haven't blogged in forever!) I decided to stay a few extra days in ATL. The week in ATL was eventful. Garry and I grilled out one night (which I love doing in the summers) and we went to a Braves game that he owed me for losing a bet. Although, we didn’t get to the game until the 7th inning b/c I was working late, we still had fun.

Garry decided to take the chance and bet against me for the Redwings/Penguins Stanley Cup finals. He obviously lost which meant that he needed to pay up and take me to Six Flags. On Friday we took the day off and spent the day at the park. We weren’t able to ride on some rides b/c the lines were ridiculous. We were able to ride the new ride “Goliath”. I loved the roller coaster but I still think that my favorite was the “Acrophobia” which is like the “Demon Drop” at Cedar Point. It takes you up abut 16 stories and to make it more thrilling it tilts you at the top. Then it drops you fast and the whole ride lasts around 45 seconds. So much fun. Even with a little afternoon rain (during lunch) the day turned out to be great. I would love to go back again though to ride the other rides that we couldn’t.

On Friday night 10 of us who went out to a Japanese Steakhouse for Garry’s birthday. The food was really great! After the restaurant we all met back at Garry’s for everyone to gather before we headed out on the town in ATL. It was a really fun night and I definitely enjoyed seeing more parts of ATL other than downtown.
Since everyone was pretty tired from the night before, we all went to dinner on Saturday and watched the movie “Wanted”. The movie was a little far fetched but it was really good. And, some parts were filmed in Chicago (close to my house) and that was awesome to see. I think at one point Garry was annoyed with me telling him “I know where that is” all throughout the movie:-)

I had an 8AM flight back to Chicago on Sunday. The Gay/Pride parade was held that weekend and everyone in Chicago, says you need to see it at least once and it was in my neighborhood so I wanted to see what it was all about. I met up with friends to watch it and it rained on and off so the parade was stopping and then starting again. It was definitely a different experience but I am glad I decided to see what it was all about. A few pics from the parade are below.

Road Trip – Operation BWI to Kazoo

2008-07-14T23:07:00.000-07:00

On Thursday (June 19) I flew to BWI (Baltimore, Maryland). Erin, Carrie, and I were moving Andrea back to MI! My flight got into BWI about 1130PM. Andrea and I went to get snacks for the road after and we didn’t get home to her apartment until about 1230AM. We put in a movie and I was sleeping in the first 15 minutes:-) Erin and Carrie flew in on Friday morning.

So, Andrea wasn’t packed all the way. Carrie has helped move both of us and she said it was a toss up as to who was packed up the least. Luckily, Andrea had a few of her friend’s students (middle school age) come and help load the Uhaul (well we referred to it as a uhaul b/c I guess that is the staple, but it was actual a budget rental which we referred to as the “15 feet of danger” After it was all packed up we sat by the pool for about an hour.

We were MI bound by 4:30PM. (Carrie was driving Andrea’s car and Andrea was driving the “15 feet of danger” The previous week Carrie told me that she was brining walkie talkies. I responded with “awesome, but I have a cell phone”. However, they were the best idea ever! We were playing games over them which made for a fun and eventful ride.

Around 9PM we stopped at this pizza place (pretty much in the middle of nowhere) and we had dinner there. It was my turn and Erin’s turn to drive. And of course at that point it started to rain, only lasting about 45 minutes.

It was around 1130 when we started discussing where to stay over night; however, we made the decision to continue to drive b/c none of us were tired. I did have like 3 Large McD’s coffees throughout the course of the night. Carrie feel asleep and luckily Garry was in a talkative mood and stayed on the phone with me for an hour while I drove. 7 hours later (around 4AM) we stopped to go to the bathroom and get more coffee. At that point we were close to MI. Carrie decided to drive a little to let me sleep. A5 530AM I woke up when we arrived to Ann Arbor (Carrie and Erin left their car there when the left for the airport). So, it was now just me and Andrea. The ride from Ann Arbor was a little painful…I felt like a zombie at that point. We arrived in Kazoo around 730AM and finally made it to bed around 8AM. We slept until 230PM the following day…well needed rest. On Sat afternoon we had to unload some things from the “15 foot of danger” including a couch between the two of yes…that was fun. (Below I manged to take a few pictures of the nice scenery along the way)

Sat night we went to grab take out from Kansas City Dipping Grill where they have the best cream cheese based dips. We went to Monaco Bay for a couple drinks so we could see Brian. We went back to where she is now staying as a nanny for the kids on Gull Lake. It was nice to be near a lake for a change without all of the city noise. They had an indoor pool, so we swam for a bit and then went to bed.

Andrea took me to the train station in the morning and I headed back to Chicago to pack and get ready for the long week in the ATL.

Father's Day Weekend

2008-07-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

On Sat morning I took the train to Kalamazoo where my mom and sis picked me up for a nice weekend at home. Of course on the way back to Ionia we stopped at Target, why not? Target twice in one week is too much! Now I know I why I went broke when I used to live by Target. Saturday night we visited my Nana in the nursing home. She will be there for a few weeks as she is recovering from some health issues.

On Sat night/Sunday morning (1AM) , my mom and I took my sister to Lansing so she could meet with her missions group to fly out to Costa Rica that day. After getting back home and catching a few hours of sleep we went to the nursing home and had cake and ice cream for Father’s Day.

I still had to work on Monday and Tuesday but it was just nice to be home and seeing family.

On Monday for dinner my mom made blue gill (which is one of my favs). I loved it growing up having blue gill during the summer for dinner, so having it on Monday brought back a lot of memories. She cooks it by rolling it in pancake batter and frying it and then she makes a “special sauce” that goes perfect with it. With the passing of my aunt, my cousin came into town. He is in the marines and lives in San Diego. I was able to see him for a few hours that night which was awesome. He is moving to North Carolina for a different position, so hopefully I will be able to see him more as that is a better commute from CHI and ATL.

On Tuesday I had a breakfast date with my Boppy (Grandpa). I was so excited to go to breakfast with just him and I. I went to pick him up at his house and he was already waiting outside We went to Big Boy and I tried Eggs Benedict for the first time and loved them. It is so cute b/c my Boppy knows like everyone in that restaurant and when a couple came by to say hi he said the “you remember so and so, right?” You have to love when grandparents do that and of course I didn’t remember them. I had the afternoon off so my mom and I went to get our nails done and I also got a pedicure! I went to visit with my Nana for a couple of hours before dinner and of course cried like a baby when I left. It is always so hard to leave home. I am satisfied with my decision to stay in CHI but I still question myself sometimes. I am the only one that lives “far away” so it’s tough. For dinner, my mom made another one of my favorites, goulash. My dad doesn’t like it that much but she still made it for meJ Then, around 7:00PM we left to go to the train station in Kalamazoo. My mom and Boppy and of course Kiara went to take me.

As always it was great to be at home and spend time with the fam. And, I also got to see my dog…Hopefully I stop traveling all the time, so I can have her back. I miss her like crazy. (And obviously her Aunt Stephanie purchased this toy for her)

Good Week in ATL

2008-06-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

This past week when I went to ATL I stayed in a part of town called Buckhead (this would be the equivalent to a Lincoln Park in Chicago) The area is not in the downtown district and it is where a lot of young professionals and families live. I was able to stay out there because the hotel I normally stay at (downtown near to the office) was sold out. This area of Buckhead also has Target! I never able to go to Target anymore b/c I don’t have a car in Chicago and it isn’t convenient to go there on a bus (b/c I end up getting too much stuff and I don’t want to carry that home...downfall of city living)

On Monday Garry was nice enough to take me to Target. I’m pretty sure he thought I was crazy b/c I was “glowing” when we walked in. He asked if I had a list…haha. I said "nope I am going down every aisle." An hour and half later we were out of the store. I was actually quite impressed with myself for as much stuff as I purchased and that I was so fast! I even packed an extra bag knowing that I would need the room! After Target we went to a restaurant called “Eclipse di luna “. It was Spanish tapas, so we ordered about 5 small plates. The food was awesome and I tried mussels for the first time. (http://www.eclipsediluna.com/pp/pp_gallery.php)

Tuesday was a late dinner. I went to a friends for some steaks on the grill and corn on the cob. I also made a goat cheese/pesto appetizer. So easy and very good! Dinner was followed by a glass of wine on the deck. It was so nice to be out of the city for a change. The area of town where I was staying was more residential. There were actually “woods” behind my friend’s house. (Not the “hunting” woods but trees”)

Wednesday I worked until about 915 but then I was invited to go bowling so I thought I would try it out. I haven’t went bowling in I don’t know how long. I ended up getting 5 strikes and bowling a 137. I wasn’t really sure how that happened but it was a good time.

I am fortunate that I was able to see a different part of town to have a different outlook of the area.

Sara's B-day

2008-06-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

I feel like I am slacking in the blogging department lately.

Last weekend was Sara’s birthday so we went out to dinner on Friday and then hosted a party for her on Saturday.

Dinner on Friday was great. We went to New Tokyo for sushi. It is a small sushi place and it is BYOB. So we always take wine there. The food is great but the service is always terrible, yet we still keep going back. I think it is because it is so good and convenient to where we all live. After dinner we went to Murphys and had couple glasses of wine and then ended an early night.

The next day Robyn, Jodi, and I hosted a BBQ for her. Robyn and I had bought all the food during the week and the guests had to bring the meat to grill. It was a really fun day. We hung out outside and played some flippy cup. It was raining on and off so we had to continue to go from in and out of the apartment. But the rain didn’t prevent us from having a good time. I bought Sara a ring toss game and by the end of the night made her wear it so we could play. Everyone had that came to the party had to write a pick up line on their name tag. Mine was "How much does a Polar Bear weigh?" (Someone would say "how much") and my response would be "Enough to break the ice, my name is Staci" We had alot of great pick up lines that day and it added to the fun of the party. Sara is like a big sister to me so for her birthday I got her flowers and I made her a shirt that said “My lil sis loves me”. It was cute.

It was a great day bbq-ing in the city.

Sex and the City - Night out with the girls...

2008-06-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

Last week we pre-ordered Sex and the City movie tickets for a show tonight. So, it was four of us girls that went out to dinner to JAlexanders (no cosmos but pinot grigio was involved). After dinner we went to the show.

I really miss that TV series! It is almost sad because I wonder if this is it now? I hope there will be a sequel but I guess we will have to wait and find out!

The book of poems in the movie was interesting and looks like it would be interesting to read (to a certain point b/c that stuff doesn't not happen anymore) Anyways the book is called "Love Letters of Great Men" if you watched the movie and would like to read it. I think I need to purchase that book according to the quiz below:-)

You Are Most Like Miranda!

While you've had your fair share of romance, men don't come first
Guys are a distant third to your friends and career.
And this independence *is* attractive to some men, in measured doses.
Remember that if you imagine the best outcome, it might just happen.

Romantic prediction: Someone from your past is waiting to reconnect...

But you'll have to think of him differently, if you want things to work.

Which Sex and the City Vixen Are You?

P.S. I was hoping the Wings would just win the Stanley Cup on Monday but they didn't so the final game was tonight. And yes, I missed it. However, I made sure to score updates throughout the movie. At one point my mom asked my dad he was texting and he said Stac. She then told him that I was at a movie, he replied with "Yeah I know, but she wants score updates"

First Cubs game at Wrigley Field.

2008-05-31T06:45:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday I attended my first cubs game at Wrigley Field. It was quite a dilemma to decided to go b/c the Wings and the Pistons playoffs were on as well. I made a good decision and went to the game (both Wings and Pistons ended up losing - I was receiving updated scores from some friends as a back up)

The field was much different that Comerica Park. It is a really old stadium. As in, there are no TVs to watch replays and no modern music for when the batters are up to bat. This occurs at Comerica (Tigers) , US Cellular Field (White Sox), and Turner Field (Braves). The score board is really old school and they manual change the score.

The Cubs won that night and it was a great game. It was 1-0 Dodgers until the 9th inning. During the bottom of the 9th the bases were loaded and the pitcher had walks which brought someone home. Then in the 10th inning there was a pop up which was caught but the man on 3rd was able to run home, which made a Cubbies victory of 2-0.

It was a nice night at the ballpark and not too cold. Good first experience at Wrigley Field. My goals is to go to 6 ballparks this year (especially Yankee Stadium and Fenway Park)

Happy Memorial Day

2008-05-26T15:52:00.000-07:00

Can we please have three day weekend all the time? This weekend was non stop which consisted of hanging out with friends and enjoying the long weekend.

By the way furniture shopping in Chicago is fun. I needed a nightstand, so I went back to the place where I got my dresser. I bought the last nightstand (floor model) that matched so I was able to get a discount. Meaning, the nightstand was already put together (perfect) but then I had to figure out how to get it 4 blocks home. My friend offered to help and ended up carrying it for part of the way and then we got a cab which was much nicer.

On Sat the Pistons, Wings, and Tigers were playing. So, we went to Tin Lizzie (a bar here that is owned my a fellow Michigander) so there were all Detroit sports on TV, it was perfect. Well the Wings and the Tigers ended up with a win but the Pistons lost to Boston that night at home.

After the games we went to a comedy club (Zanies). I have been there a couple of times prior but it is a good time whenever I go.

On Sunday my friend works at a bar/restaurant so a bunch of us when up there to see her and we sat outside and played euchre for a long time. The restaurant had this fishbowl drinks that you share with friends. And there was a table that challenged us for a race, so of course we had to participate. All and all it was a great day and it was so nice knowing that we still had one more day on the weekend!

The weekend went by fast but I knew it was going to be a short week and I didn't have to travel so I was pretty happy about that.

Can't believe I haven't blogged in a while...

2008-05-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

I found out this week that I will be traveling less (as in every other week). I am pretty excited b/c that means I can stay at home in Chicago longer and enjoy my new apartment and keep my roommate company. I can buy groceries, have dinner with friends, go to the gym, and just have a "normal" life. I am pretty excited. Although, today I got a friendly reminder of how fun it is to buy groceries in Chicago when the store in 1/2 mile away. I found myself carrying 5 bags sprinting a block to catch the bus. Ohh....public transportation, you gotta love it.

This weekend will be fun. I have friends in town and the Pistons and the Wings play offs are on...Woo..hoo..

Oh and last night was game 2 for the Pistons so we watched it at a friends and got pizza. We then started playing "Rock Band" which is guitar hero with drums and karaoke added. It is VERY addicting...snapped a picture so we could remember how much fun and how ridic we looked....I belive we were singing "Dead or Alive" by Bon Jovi in these pictures..

Springtime in Chicago

2008-05-20T17:07:00.001-07:00

My new roommate and are are still settling in our new apartment. It is not quite there yet but we have also made some time for exploring the new area. There are a few of us girls who have became good friends and we all met on our project for work about 10 months ago. On Saturday we went out to watch the Cubs (well they did and I watched the Wings playoff game) but afterward we decided to go to this Mexican Cantina place (it was the only place that really didn't have a line) We had the opportunity to sing "Sing a long" hich is like karaoke but you have to know the words. So why not but to pull up the lyrics on our blackberrys. We ended up singing Skee-Lo "I Wish". We didn't win the contest but it was definitely a great time. And it may sound sad, but we knew most of the words to the song and we didn't really need our blackberrys after all.

After the karaoke fiasco we went to a BBQ. It was fun being outside and grilling in the summer. There was also tippy cup involved which is always a great college game. My room mate introduced me to alot of new friends, so this is the beginning to a fun and crazy summer!
Sunday - I tried out a new church with a friend who recently moved to the city. It was a non-denom church with mostly young people and the service was at 5:30pm, so it worked out perfect. I think I will keep going there, it was nice finally finding a church in the city. (www.parkcommunitychurch.org)

Next weekend is Memorial Day weekend which I am looking forward to. Long weekend and then the following week I get to stay in Chicago and work from home, which means I get to do normal things (i.e. grocery shop, clean, meet friends for dinner, run by the lake) I am super excited!

134th Annual Kentucky Derby

2008-05-12T18:25:00.001-07:00

On May 3 new room mate and I went to a Kentucky Derby party at a local bar and all proceeds went to the American Diabetes Association. The tradition is to wear big hats; however, since we planned to go at 11Pm the previous night we really didn't have time to find one, but we got dressed up instead.
It was a fun time although the race doesn't last that long. We had a few of the Kentucky Derby drinks - Mint Julep's (A mint julep is traditionally made of four ingredients: mint, bourbon, sugar and water.) They are pretty good but only for that day. The mint julep is the known as the traditional beverage of the Kentucky Derby, a position it has held since 1938. For over 18 years, the Mint Julep Cocktail has been the designated "official mint julep of the Kentucky Derby".

The actual race itself didn't last long at all. It was fun to watch; however, my stomach dropped when I saw the second place winner fall to the ground and in a tragic accident died. Her name was Eight Belles. She finished second in the 134th running of the 2008 Kentucky Derby, a race run by only thirty-nine fillies in the past, and was then quickly put down. Eight Belles collapsed during her cool-down immediately after passing the winning post. She suffered compound fractures of both front ankles and was euthanized on the spot because of the nature of her injuries.

I grew up watching horse races when I was little and I was always mad when they were whipped by the jockeys. However, this really made me think about how animals are treated. It makes me sick to know that these horses have a rough life and it is all for the greed of money and competition. (Her earnings totaled $708, 650)

While walking home I noticed the great view of Chicago and really enjoyed the city that I live in, so I had to take a goofy picture.

Moving Day - Part 2

2008-05-09T17:53:00.001-07:00

My dad has always joked around with me calling Two Men and a Truck for my next move and this time I really did it! I was all ready to go at 2PM CST. They were expected to be at my apartment between 430 and 530. In the mean time my room mate and I finished cleaning the apartment (there was some wine left in the fridge so we had some wine and cleaned)

Long behold they FINALLY showed up to my apartment at 915. I guess Karma came around to me. (I am the one that is usually running late when people show up to help me move)

I was totally bummed when I saw the Penske Rental Truck (I was hoping for the Two Men and Truck; however, apparently it broke down during the day which made them late)

Since I lived next to an ally, that is where they had to park the truck. Of course, people are going in and out to park, so they had to move the truck approx 3 times – which made it take longer. Besides that, the actually moving things out of my apartment went smooth. He said that I was well packed (Dad – I hope you are reading this)

So, we got to the new apartment around 1045 – luckily there is an ally way that we could park in and unload. The unloading went well until 1215 when they were putting the couch in. They said it wasn’t going to make (at that time I said a prayer and boom the couch made it through the door)! So after getting the loveseat in the door, it was all finished. The movers started working at 7AM this morning and they had an hour drive back home. I made one of them a sandwich and they went off on their way.

Moving Day - Part I

2008-04-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

I know it's a big surprise but the movers will be here between 4:30PM - 5:30PM and I am ready now (2:00PM)!!! My Nana says that I am progressing with my moves! Since 2001 I have moved 10 times.

I started packing on Thursday and with the help of Sara on Sunday and yesterday I was able to get done quicker. I took a different approach on packing this time. Large black utility bags. And for my garments on hangers I laid them on painters tarp and rolled them up. I think it will be like Christmas unpacking b/c most of my stuff is in trash bags so it will be a surprise every time I unpack! - Trying to look at the positive.
The last move when my friends came to get me in Detroit I wasn't all the way packed and that has been the case for all of my moves! However, I am posting this picture - proof that everything is packed! I don't think the movers are lieniant than my family and friends.

Goodbye 428 W Belden...

Packing again....yuck!

2008-04-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday night and I don't have to fly anywhere tomorrow! I am in Chicago this week b/c I am moving into my new apartment on Wednesday. Thank God, I listed to my mom and got movers...it will make life much easier.. I was excited to go to the grocery store today because I never get to do that. I only bought cereal and sandwich stuff b/c I am moving; however, I realized that my bowls and silverware are packed! Opps, I will be purchasin plastic stuff to get me by. Believe it or not, I have most of my stuff packed. I did the trash bag thing. Also, I purchased painters tarp laid my clothes on hangers and wrapped then in those (clever idea I stole from a friend). I only have about 3 or 4 more hours of packing and cleaning so I think I am ahead of schedule. One of my friends came and packed up the kitchen stuff so I totally am thankful for that! My room is finally clean; however, that is because everything is in boxes.

Overall it was a good weekend. I went to a birthday for my friend John. We have been good friends since our Lasalle Michigan days. We went to sushi for dinner (about 15 of us) and then went out afterwards. I hung out with the girls on Saturday. We went to our favorite brunch spot and had some mimosas. To finish up the weekend I just went to a friends to watch the Tigers game b/c I don't have a tv at this point (room mate already moved out and she had the tv) and unfortunately the Tigers lost. The Pistons won though, so I guess one can not have everything.

I also signed up for another 5K, so I will be running for that. It is called Run for the Zoo and we will be running to the Lincoln Park Zoo. I have friends in the race so it will be a good time.

I am off to bed, finally I will get a good nights sleep on a Sunday night.....

MIichigan Weekend Re-Cap

2008-04-23T04:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday my weekend started with my dad coming to Detroit to pick me up. It was nice to spend some time with him. However, on the way home, I did hear about how much he hates the driving in Detroit! He is def not a city guy - he seemed to calm down once we got to Howell and things went back to two lanes:-) Friday night my family and I grilled out and watched the Tigers. It was nice to sit on the deck and hang out with my family (my aunt and uncle were over as well).

Sat morning my mom, sis and I went to get our nails done and pedicures! It was relaxing and well deserved.

Saturday afternoon my sister, dad and I went fishing ($15 later I had a fishing license in the morning) It was great to be out in the boat on the lake. It is nice to get outside of the city sometimes. Thank god my sister went. She had to back up the boat into the launch while my dad took care of unloading it. I don't think that I could do that at all! She is good about stuff like that. We are soo opposite!

The first hour I caught nothing! (My sis and I decided to try out the 80's polarized sunglasses that my dad keeps in his boat for his guests) We were fishing for bass so there was no worm and no bobber so I had to do some work! My dad gave me what I call a "crap" bait. He and my sister were using a "jerk" bait (which has two hooks) I finally got him to put one of those on my pole and I got my first fish within 15 minutes of that. Come to find out, he didn't give me that bait b/c it has two hooks which he thought I may cause an accident and hook someone:-)

On Saturday night I took my grandparents out to dinner. It was so nice to spend time with them. I wish I could see them more. I took them out to dinner and then we went to see my cousin. Saturday night I hung out with the girls which is always nice to catch up.

I can't believe how fast the weekend went. On Sunday I went to church and saw my mom and sister performer in their singing group. They are so blessed with music. ( My dad and I drew the short end of the stick with that talent) Sometimes I think God would even appreciate me lip syncing:-) Davin picked me up at my parents and we went back to the "D" b/c I was flying out of there Monday morning.

Sunday came and went to fast! Before I knew it I was at the airport on Monday (greeted by a delayed flight)! That's how things go I guess. I miss home alot and still question myself on the decision I made to move home. But, I am really excited to go back to Chicago. This weekend I have to pack b/c I moved into my new apartment next week (I have not packed at all and if you know me - you know I should have really started a month ago) However, I am prepared with movers (Thanks to my mother) so they can figure out the big stuff.

Now, I just hope the week goes by fast so I can actually get stuff done and home!!

Run to Wrigley

2008-04-13T18:31:00.000-07:00

I decided to run in my first 5-K (3.1 miles) about 5 weeks ago. Today was the race and it went really well. The race was called "Run to Wrigely". The course started in Wrigleyville (Home of the Chicago Cubs) and went through out the streets of Lakeview. It ended at Wrigley Field's ground level concourse, finishing under the famed Wrigley Field marquee.

I made sure I got some good sleep since this was my first race. The race started at 8AM. I went and picked up my friend Chuck around 645 so we could get our registration packets. Luckily he has done these things before so he was able to answer my questions and help me get situated with my chip. (The chip goes on your shoe and tracks your time.) It was soooo cold this morning, so I layered up. I ended up taking off my jacket around a mile in a half b/c I guess it wasn't as cold as I thought. The forecast called for snow and rain which there was none so that was in our favor!

My goal was to 1) not walk and 2) finish with a pace of under 10min/mile. So, I made my goal, I didn't walk and I had a 9:44mile pace. Overall, the race was really fun. Running through a different neighborhood was great. (I am not able to download photos from my camera but when I do I will be posting them)

I am now looking for another race to run in May or June. I have been told that this can be addicting and I am excited about another race.

The rest of the weekend was fun. I went to the Tigers game (they played the White Sox in Chicago). The game was fun, but it was cold and rainy! (Not baseball weather)

This week is back to Detroit for me. Flight is at 7AM. Hooray...

One Bronco plus one Chip plus AMS and LHR = Trouble

2008-04-04T11:12:00.001-07:00

My tickets are booked! I will be traveling to Amsterdam and England in August with Sara. We will be flying into Amsterdam and staying there for 3 days, then we will be flying to London and staying there for 3 days, and then we will end the trip spending the last 3 days in a suburb of London with her family (suburb is similar to Cape Cod). We will be staying at hostels, with her family, and I will be using my free Marriott stays!

I have never been to Europe so I am getting really excited. I haven’t been on a week vacation trip since October 2006, so I am due. I was able to use my airline miles with some additional cost, but I saved $600 by using my points, so I am happy about that!

Opening Day!

2008-04-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the opening day for the 2008 baseball season! It was a sad day at Comerica Park as the Tigers started off the season with a loss to the KC Royals. Can’t say much for the cubbies either because they also lost yesterday to the Brewers.

It should be a good season for the Tigers so hopefully I will make it to a few games. I also need to attend a Cubs game this year.

Braves Game - ATL
My company held an outing for the Braves opener. It was a little chilly in ATL but I was still pumped to go to a game on opening day (even if it was a National League team). We tailgated in the parking lot. The stadium is nice and the it has a great view of the city.

Some of my co-workers from a different project decided to come along b/c we had some extra tickets. They drove their rental car and were a little late to the game but they found a spot in a what was a shady area. They parked on someone’s lawn for $10 and finally made it by the 3rd inning. About the bottom of the 7th we were ready to go home. I decided to hitch a ride back with them. We walked to the place where the car was parked and it was gone! We saw the tracks. So we thought well the car was stolen. Then this lady came from across the street and told us she saw the car get towed and she would give us a ride to the towing company for $10. (wow how nice of her…lol) By the grace of god (and to my belief that everything happens for a reason) there was one of my co-workers on my team who was walking behind us (she lives around the area) and she took us to the towing company. So, once we got to the towing company (at this time its about 10:00PM we waited an additional hour to have Avis Rental fax a release. It turned into a big mess and well we couldn’t get the car back. (Additional manager approval was needed from AVIS) So, we had to call my co-worker AGAIN to have her come and pick us up to take us downtown. The car was eventually picked up today at 3PM. By the way, during the wait time at the towing company Andrew managed to get a free sign from the towing company as seen in the pictures.

Side note: The co-worker with the rented car is from Ireland. This was his first baseball game. He said by the end of the night that he would rather watch hockey.

So based on the situation we realized it was a scam that involved 3 parties. 1) owner of the house where the car was parked on the lawn, 2) lady across the street who “happened” to see the car getting towed and 3) the tow company. Based on the economics this was a good scam 1) $10 to park 2) $10 to get a ride from random lady (btw, she gave 3 other people rides that night) and 2) $125 to get the car back.

The night definitely made for a story:
o Tickets to the Braves game: $0
o Parking on random lawn: $10
o Sign from the towing company: $10
o Getting the car out of the towing lot: $125
o The look on our faces when we realized the car was gone and we had to wait at this random place in a shady area: Priceless!

One Year

2008-03-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today marks the anniversary of being with my cuurent company. I can’t believe it. Just a little over a year ago, I began interviewing the first week of March and within 3 weeks I accepted the offer, moved out of my apartment in Dearborn, started a new job in Chicago, and stayed with friends (with a lot of my belongings in my car) until I could move into my apartment in May.

The first month of working consisted of training. During my last week in training I found out that I had been placed on a project back in Detroit! I wasn’t too excited considering I had just moved from there. But, I tried to look at the positive things (good commute from Chicago, friends and family were in Detroit area, and it will feel like home). I traveled to Detroit up until February 2008, with a week trip to San Antonio in between. I started traveling to Atlanta in February 2008 and I am expected to keep traveling until July 2008.

It doesn’t seem like I have been here a year b/c I have had so many opportunities within this project. I have worked on 3 different teams and have learned so much along the way. I have also had the opportunity to meet wonderful people. I usually get bored with a job after 6 months and so far I have never been bored, as I am able to try new things and keep learning.

Besides all of the knowledge and friendships I have gained I have also gained the following perks!

Earned Silver Elite Status with NWA and banked 40,300 miles
Earned Platinum Member Status at Marriott (Over 100 night stayed)
Traveled using a flex trip to Baltimore, Vegas, and home (need to take advantage of this more often this year)

Walk to the office in ATL.

2008-03-25T19:27:00.001-07:00

So, I arrived in ATL yesterday. I take the “Marta” to the office from the airport. The “Marta is Atlanta’s pubic train transit system. Due to the damages of the tornado the station that I get off at was partial closed, so I had to walk farther than normal with all my luggage! Then, the street that I take to work was blocked off, which caused me to walk an extra block again. I usually love to walk but not with all the luggage. Not fun. So,as I was walking down the street my eyes were wondering at all the buildings. There were so many windows in the surrounding area (including my building) that had windows boarded up. Some windows were not even boarded up at this point (week later from when the storm hit). It crazy what a tornado can do. The damage was very random in the area. Thought I would just post a few pics I took this week.

Easter Weekend Recap

2008-03-24T17:51:00.000-07:00

The remaining of the weekend went well. Although, I was in MI since Monday and it just went by WAY too fast:-(

On Friday, I took my dad to therapy and then him, my sister and I went out to lunch. It was nice to spend the day with my dad, I don’t know the last time we were able to do that. Since my dad’s surgery he still can’t drive so everyone gets to pleasure of driving him around. But what really happens is; he is the best back seat driverJ I felt like I was 16 again with him in the car as he was telling me to switch lanes – I think he forgot that I lived in Detroit at one point and I am quite capable of drivingJ Friday night we went to the local watering holes (Oliveras and Gregorys). It was great seeing my friends. I realized I am a bad aunt and forgot Kimberlyn’s (Erin’s daughter) birthday. It was March 1. I usually always remember that stuff, I think with traveling, things have been a little crazy. I asked her if she had a good birthday and she said yes but, “I just wanted Aunt Staci and Aunt Andrea to come home” Of course, that made me feel horrible, I mean the girl is 7 years old. She is very smart though.

On Saturday Davin drove over from Detroit. The whole family went to Corner Landing and then Davin and I met Laurie and Cale at Gregrorys. I think he was surprised at how much Ionia had (i.e. Walmart, Taco Bell, Meijer, Walgreens, people with teeth :-)

On Sunday we went looking for our Easter eggs in the house. It is tradition in our family to find our Easter Egg and then once we find that my mom will give us the Easter Basket. So, we had a bunch of goodies in our basket – of course my mom always gets us more than she should. Davin even got a basket this year – although I had to look for his egg. Kiara decided to guard my basket and every time we would try to take it away she would growl and snap at us. She is too funny and a brat – must get that from her mom:-)

We went to Nana and Boppy’s around 1PM for Easter lunch. It was so great to see the whole family. The food, as always, was delicious. I am upset that I couldn’t bring anything back b/c I had to travel to ATL. (I managed to snag some homemade rice crispy treats though)
After finding our Easter basket at Nanas and after visiting with everyone for awhile – Davin and I left to go back to Detroit around 4PM. I really had a hard time leaving. I started crying when I had to say goodbye to Kiara. I know she is in good hands, I just miss her a lot but she has the best aunt in the world to take care of her. I am the only one in the family who doesn’t live in the same state so I always feel like I am leaving home – I just hate that feeling every time I leave. So, on the car ride home I was quiet and just didn’t want to talk but Davin helped me feel better – he is good about cheering me up and looking at the brightside/positive of things…which sometimes I can’t do.

Well, back to ATL this week. Davin took me to the airport this morning and it was tough to say goodbye –yet again. We haven’t made any plans to see each other again, so I think that is what sucks the most. Well, this week will be busy with work so hopefully it just goes by fast!

Remembering the true meaning of Easter.....

2008-03-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

As we spend time with our families on Easter, it is important not to forget why we celebrate Easter.

Easter is the annual festival commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the principal feast of the Christian year. It is celebrated on a Sunday on varying dates between March 22 and April 25 and is therefore called a movable feast. The dates of several other ecclesiastical festivals, extending over a period between Septuagesima Sunday (the ninth Sunday before Easter) and the first Sunday of Advent, are fixed in relation to the date of Easter.

John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.

Romans 6:8-11 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Midweek Recap

2008-03-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

I can't believe its almost Thursday and my time in MI is almost over! It was great to see Davin when I got here. We both agreed a month is too long to go apart and it will not happen again. I have stayed with him the last few nights in his new apartment downtown Detroit (yes it is safe:-) It has a great view of the city and of Canada. There is even a nice grocery store in the bldg, you really never have to leave. I made Lasagna tonight which he says is on my rotation. Since, I only know how to make like 5 dishes, he noticed that I rotate them. Oops! I do like to learn how to make new things, I just don't have the patience to learn.

So tomorrow, my sister is coming to pick me up and I am going to Lansing with her and then off to Ionia on Friday. I am sooo excited to see my family. Davin is coming to meet the parents on Sat and it will be his first time in Ionia. So that will be fun.

So, I am a little crazy but I decided to run a 5k. I have always hated running, but I want to set a goal and just do it. (man that sounds like I am a Nike spokesperson) So, anyways I signed up for the Run to Wrigley 5K (3.1 miles) so its really not a big deal, but to me I just want to try it out. Plus, the money goes to Charity. I will definitely not be in the race to win just for the exercise and to say i did it. It is on 4/13 at 8AM! I have been try to train for it but with traveling its a bit difficult, so hopefully I make it.

Jacquelyn and I found an apartment, got approved and are signing the lease this week! It is a little north of me but I think a better location - more things around. We move in May 1 and I have to be out of my current apartment by April 30 at midnight, so I will be finding a place to stay that night and will have to leave my things in Uhaul - Fun stuff!

Well that's about all that is happening right now, I will blog later after the weekend!

Change of plans this week - Going to MI earlier than planned!

2008-03-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

A tornado came through downtown ATL on Friday night and it damaged the building that I work in. Luckily no one was injured b/c it happend late Friday night. The greater damage was done in the area that I work in. So, due to the damages, the building is closed and now I don't have to travel to ATL this week. I will be going back to MI tomorrow night. I can't wait to see Davin b/c I haven't seen him in 3 weeks! So my flight lands in DTW at 930PM. I am flying NWA so hopefully I will get bumped to first class. I will be going back to Ionia at some point during the week, I don’t have a car in Detroit anymore, so I will have to figure that out. I'm excited to see my family over the Easter weekend.

We had a good weekend celebrating St. Patty's Day. A friend came in from San Fran last minute and my new roommate was also here. There was about 15 of us who had breakfast together and then we went to Duffy's (U of M bar) and then ended up at Monsinor Murpheys (Irish Pub). It was a "green" Mimosas day and we all had a blast.

I finished the 2nd season of LOST! I have been watching it so much lately, I feel like I am part of the island. I just rented half of the 3rd season so I am almost caught up to the current season. Well I better start watching it.

Five things about me...

2008-03-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

Five jobs I`ve had in my life.
1. Teller
2. Waitress
2. Fuel Manager - Trucking Co.
3. Credit Analyst
4. Consultant Analyst

Five movies I've watched more than once:
1. Home Alone 1&2
2. Annie
3. SuperBad
4. Sweet Home Alabama
5. Weekend at Bernies 1&2

Five places I have lived:
1. Ionia
2. Kalamazoo
3. Detroit area (Royal Oak and Dearborn)
4. Chicago
5. Currenlty live in Atlanta during the week

Five of my favorite TV Shows:
1. LOST
2. Greys Anatomy
3. One Tree Hill
4. Sex and the City
5. King of Queens

Five fun places I have been:
1. Japan
2. Jamacia
3. Punta Cana
4. New York City
5. Vegas

My favorite foods:
1. Goulosh/Nana's Mac and Cheese
2. Greek Salad - have to be from a Coney
3. Applebees Oriental Chicken Salad
4. Steak
5. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Five of my favorite songs:
1. Free Bird - Lynard Skynard
2. What's this life for? - Creed
3. Dreamgirl - Dave Matthews Band
4. Same Mistake - James Blunt
5, You dont have to call me by my name - David Allen Coe (I remember Boppy singing this)

Five places I would rather be right now:
1. Making dinner with Davin while he plays the guitar and checks on me every 5 minutes so I dont screw anything up...:-)
2. Upnorth fishing with my dad and sitting around a campfire with friends and family
3. On a tropical beach - next trip I want to go to the Virgin Islands
4. On a trip with my sister (Ireland or Italy)
5. Playing games at Erins with the crew

Recap from Suite 1410

2008-03-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

The weekend with Sara in town was a lot of fun! We made appetizers on Friday and went out with some of our LaSalle friends. We had a great time but we were too exhausted to go out on Saturday night. On Saturday we went to a restaurant called "Minnies" which they serve everything "mini" style (i.e. cheeseburgers and fries and even the cups) The cheeseburgers reminded me of sliders. It wasn't the best food but we did have some entrainment in the restaurant. This 4 year old was running around the restaurant with his shoes and his socks off b/c he proceeded to take them off and throw them. The entire restaurant was watching and FINALLY the family the mom and her kids left. If that wasn't birth control I dont know what is... It also reminded me of how things changed since I was a little kid. My parents would have spanked me in public but kids now a days get away with everything.

My dad is still recovering from his surgery that he had last Tuesday. The surgery went well but he will be off work for about 5 weeks and going to therapy. He is also still in some pain but I think the pain killers are helping. My mom was with him the first week but since she had to go back to work. He has to go to therapy every day but god has blessed my parents with good family and friends support. So “Beav” has a personal chauffeur to take him to therapy every day (grandparents and friends are helping out). Since my dad has been bored at home I have gotten numerous texts which is great! (Although, he may need to make sure he has the unlimited plan) My mom just taught him how to T-9 so is responses are much faster; it’s nice talking to him more.

So since my recent decision to stay living in Chicago, I found a room mate. We are working on the same project together and are both from Michigan. She is a fun girl and we will be looking for apartments within the next few weeks. We are both traveling all the time, so now we just need to find someone to get our mail!

This week started off pretty good. A little busy but not too crazy. When I landed on Monday Davin left a voicemail (knowing that I am in the air) just to say have a good day. It's the little things that count so I appreciate that on Monday mornings. Then I checked into my hotel this week and I was upgraded to a suite. (I really wanted to sing the Beyonce song at the front desk but I refrained from doing so) I was pretty happy about that b/c I have my own little living room with a couch so it is a little more homey.

Since the daylight savings this weekend my schedule has been messed up and I don’t know why. I go between Central and Eastern time every week, so I don’t know why it is bothering me. Since the time change, the bus drivers will not have more daylight to drive. At least that is what my mom told me when I was little b/c I asked a million “Why” questions:-) I have come to realize at my age that it is to save energy - glad I took that college class that explained it.

Well I better stop writing b/c I have a couple of presentations this week that I need to finish preparing for and I need to watch the LOST videos that I rented:-)

Gotta ask yourself the question.. Where are you now - James Blunt

2008-03-07T10:38:00.000-08:00

During my stay in ATL this week, I really came to the realization that I was completely spoiled when I worked in Detroit. I was able to see my friends and Davin and it seemed like I had "normal" life. ATL is a little lonely, but I was introduced to Christine (she is good friends with Sara Basset) and we totally hit it off. She is so much fun to hang out with so ATL is feeling a little more homey. Although, I was a little upset when I was forced to watch a Hawks game when the Pistons were playing the Celtics on Wed.

After thinking long and hard and making a pro/con list I have decided to remain living in the city. I do want to save $$ and by a house, but I am just not ready to leave the city and there is something that is holding me back. So, my options will be finding some people to room with or renting a studio apartment.

Sara Allen flew in from MI this week and she is staying with me! We went out with some of our LaSalle friends last night and had a great time catching up. We went to a "Michigan State" bar here in the city where they played acoustic music and then we had to go to a "Michigan" Bar b/c we were on State overload. It was a great time.

So now, this weekend we will have fun and be apartment hunting....

Should I stay or should I go now.....

2008-03-02T10:51:00.000-08:00

I am waiting to hear back from work to see if I will be allowed to move home and remain out of the Chicago office. There is more opportunity for promotions in the bigger office so I would like to stay within that office

I had such a great weekend in the city, I just don't know if I am ready to move back home. I feel like I haven't experienced the city that much b/c I am always gone on the road. There is just so more to do in the city, like going to new restaurants (new fav is "Wild" on Broadway)
On the other hand, I miss my friends and family back home and I would like to spend more time with them as well. Moving will also allow me to save $$. I will be taking advantage of my flex trips so hopefully I will go meet some friends in San Fran in May.
Since I am so back and forth I have decided to make a pro/con list in excel -- yes I am a dork but hopefully it will be helpful.

So, back to Hotlanta this week. Last week I was introduced to one of Sara's Bassets friends, Christine. We went out for a few drinks and she is awesome, so nice with southern hospitality. So, I have a new friend in ATL.

My dad gets surgery tomorrow on his shoulder and since he is a diabetic there are more risks. So, my family and I would appreciate all the prayers for his recovery and my mom's sanity:-)

Weekend Re-cap

2008-02-24T15:28:00.001-08:00

So, the James Blunt concert was yet again, amazing! He is better in concert than on his CDs. We all had such a great time. I bought my mom and sister the tickets for Christmas. The venue was small and intimate. His songs in that venue just gave me the chills. My favorite song from his new album was played towards the end of the concert ("Same Mistake") He is an awesome guitar and piano player.

It was great being home this weekend. I didn't do much but I was able to spend time with my family so it was great. I guess I am getting old b/c Friday night I fell asleep on the couch watching a movie (probably around 1230). But lucky me I woke up early on Saturday morning to hear my dad (aka Beav) talking to his buddy about some fishing tournament that was on tv. I guess I could sympathize if it was something to do with football, but really??? Either way, it made me realize how much I miss my family and I enjoy being at home.

So, tonight (Sunday) I am going to a Foo Fighters concert. I don't listen to them that much but Davin just moved close to Joe Louis and we have skybox tickets that his friend got. It's nice that he lives downtown b/c we can just walk over there without even going outside.

Tomorrow...leaving to go to Hotlanta. I will be leaving from DTW in the morning. Then, I will be back to Chicago on Wednesday.

Getting a little sad b/c I won't be in MI for another month. I will be back in town for Easter. I am sure I will help my Nana with the Easter dinner! am a little sad b/c I won't see Davin for a month which will be the longest we will be apart since we started dating. Normally, I wouldn't care, but something is different, so I guess I do care.....

Back in MI

2008-02-22T05:13:00.000-08:00

I flew back to MI on Thursday night. I haven't been here for 2 weeks, but just being back here makes me feel at home again (well duh i guess that is because I am home). I was excited to see Davin b/c I haven't seen him in a couple of weeks (longest we have been apart since we started dating). When he did pick me up at the airport I saw the big bump on my car that happened during the week. Some lady hit him and luckily he was parked and ok.

So, I am strongly thinking about moving back to the big town of Ionia (I know, I am going to eat those words from some people) to live with my aunt. It is a big decision that I have to make b/c I really love the city; however, it makes sense financially b/c I am never in Chi anyways due to travel. So, I need to make a decision pretty quickly because my lease is up in May. However, I helped Davin move a little bit and I just dread packing again!

So, I came home this weekend b/c I am going to see James Blunt! I am going to the concert in Ann Arbor with my mom, sis, and friend Sara. He puts on a good show, so it should be a great time.

Well I have to get back to watching LOST! It is so addicting. P.S. I was surprised when I went to the video store in Ionia to rent the DVD and it was $1 compared to the $4 in Chicago.

Happy Monday

2008-02-18T11:30:00.001-08:00

So, Monday didn't work out as planned. I went to the airport at 515. I get to the counter to check in and my flight is delayed 2 1/2 hours (not sure why). Then, I weighed my suitcase and it was exactly 4 lbs over weight (I knew exactly what I had to remove, the 2lbs weights I work out with!; however, I had to put them in my purse and carry them around. After sitting in the airport for 2 hours, I decided it would just be best to stay in Chicago due to other circumstances. So, I was back in a cab by 9AM and i made it home before my flight even took off. What a way to start a morning....
So now, back in the freezing windy city. And, I plan to watch LOST all night....

Sunday Re-cap

2008-02-17T09:15:00.001-08:00

So, it's Sunday again. That means it is time to pack for the week. Yuck. This is what I hate the most about traveling and also getting up at 430 on Monday mornings....

To avoid packing I watched half of the first season of LOST. I started watching this season with Davin and now I have some catching up to do on the past 3 seasons (I think Davin got annoyed when I continued to ask alot of questions the first time we watched it and he told me to start from the beginning:)

So this week its back to Hotlanta...Last week was my frist week there, so I'm still learning more about the area. I have a colleague that is also traveling there so it will be nice to see a familar face. I have to fly Delta from ORD to ATL because there isnt a direct flight on Northwest. Bummer b/c I don't get first class anymore and I have to go back to coach:-( I dont have status with Delta..

It's bed time for me. Have to finish packing, the cab is going to come at 515..

Virgin Blogger

2008-02-15T16:52:00.001-08:00

So, I recently viewed a colleagues blog and now I am totally addicted. This doesn't compare to MySpace and Facebook, so if you have one of those I think you should change:-)

Since I do travel all the time and it seems like time goes by sooo fast I want to write things down, so I can remember the moments. I also want to be able to keep my friends and family posted on where I am at (they seem to forget where I am at half the time:-)

So....a little about where I am at in my life....I graduated from WMU in December 2005 (seems like yesterday). I lived in Detroit area for a little over a year and then got a new job and moved to Chicago in March 2007. I have always wanted to live in a big city my entire life. So, I am finally here.....I can't believe that I have lived here for almost a year. I have met great friends and have done so much.

I miss my family ALOT! Even though I am the only one not around (I am the only one who lives out of the state), I still miss them and think about them every day. I often wonder if living here is worth missing my family and friends at home....