Party On! . . . . . . Excellent!

Grad Student Struggling. . .

2010-02-01T15:03:00.000-08:00

Hey all,
After a multi-month hiatus, I'm back to blogging again (yeah!).
As many of you know, I've started to work on a thesis again. Right now, I'm in the graduate studies section of the CSUS library, working on my literature review. I thought I'd post about my topic and what I've been doing the past two weeks, and hopefully get a little support from my dedicated readers out there :)

I'm researching the effects of direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription pharmaceuticals, something which started (on tv, at least) in 1997 after the FDA relaxed the "brief summary" guidelines for tv drug ads. This allowed pharma companies to give a brief summary of the drug advertised, outline the major risks only, and then provide a reference for more information- typically a telephone number or a website. Since then tv advertising of pharmaceuticals has exploded into a multi billion dollar business.

While I'm researching advertising of pharmaceuticals in magazines and on tv, I've been finding more interesting information on tv advertising, since the change in requirements since 1997. Magazine ads have been allowed in the US for longer periods of time, and are considered less controversial. Speaking of controversy, there's quite a bit out there. Right now, New Zealand and the US are the only countries that allow direct ads to consumers on tv, as many countries' health organizations have found that tv ads for drugs increases health care costs for both the consumer and the society at large. The connection between drug advertising and rising health care costs is especially worrisome for countries with socialized medicine.

That's all for now, but will be blogging more on my thesis in the near future. I have committed to sending my primary advisor a rough draft of the literature review on Sunday, so I suspect I'll post something before then.

Amelia is a stone-faced Killer.

2009-09-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

So last night during a bout of insomnia, I awoke and wandered out to the front room for a movie lullaby. I noticed the front porch light was on, which Sean and I decided we'd use as a tool to make sure all kitties are in for the night. We'll leave the porch light on if we know one or both kitties are outside, and we'll turn off the light only when all kitties are inside again.

I opened the door to invite Amelia back in the house, only to find a huge (HUGE!) rat, dead on the porch about a foot from the door. Completely disgusting. Of course, the ruthless killer didn't want to come back inside- she had fled the scene of the crime. A similar murder occurred with the prior body killed in the same fashion and left in the exact same place on the front porch, about 2 months ago. Only the victim in crime #1 was a small mouse, not a one-pound-plus rat. I think I've been watching too many Dexter episodes on Netflix, but nevertheless, I think I've solved the rodent killer mystery.

Please note that while I normally like to include pictures in my posts, I have spared my viewers the horror of viewing evidence from the crime scene.

Friday Catblogging- June 12

2009-06-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Last night as I was making up the futon for Barry's overnight visit, Ameilia thought she'd make herself at home and "help out mommy" by laying all over the bed. Yeah, well, it wasn't exactly helping me out, but it did pile on the cuteness and mama couldn't resist snapping a few pics. I guess her bahavior is fair, since the front room was originally the kitteh sequestering room, and she had it all to herself for her first three weeks after adoption. In that way, she's just re-asserting herself, and who could blame her for that?

UGH!
Sadly, the 2007 version of MicroSoft piece-of-shit software installed on my work computer isn't letting me save pics from my phone, so please check again later tonight- I'll add cute Ameilia pics to this posting from my home computer!

Updated. . .yea!

oh noes! food poisoning strikes again!

2009-06-09T08:22:00.000-07:00

yesterday I went to work, but was feeling pretty bad- upset stomach, chills etc. In fact, I even drove in stead of taking the bus, thinking I might need to go home early if my symptoms got any worse. Then at 8:30 or so I got a text from Morgan- "are you feeling okay?"

My thought was, "how did you know?". Apparently Morgan got it, too and knew it was food poisoning because he was worshipping the porcelain bowl all morning. I think it may have been that burrito we shared? Anyway, the moral of the story is: Food poisoning sucks, but its better when you have someone to commiserate with, as long as you don't have to share the same bathroom.

I'm feeling a little better today, so I'm trying to tough it out at work. wish me luck!

The original catblogger

2009-05-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

I forgot to take pictures of the kittehs last night to post today, so I thought instead, I'd show you the original catblogger, Kevin Drum from Mother Jones's catblogging page! imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, so I've heard!

http://www.motherjones.com/kevin-drum/2009/05/friday-cat-blogging-29-may-2009

Disneyland Churros and Diet Coke

2009-05-27T12:07:00.001-07:00

Nom Nom Nom!

This weekend I made the annual pilgrimage to Disneyland to see Mickey and Friends. This trip was especially memeorable in that I went with a few new friends, one of which, despite his 30 years of experience on Planet Earth, had never been to Disneyland before- amazing! His inaugural visit was a success, I'm sure he'd agree. And he has the ear hat to prove he's been there, done that!

Camie and Moshy- you'll be pleased to know we made not one, but TWO visits to our favorite crack dealer, the churro man and his cart located just east of Sleeping Beauty's Castle. And man, those churros were so tasty! I missed you both- you too, Aunt Kelly, Dad and Mom. How about Disneyland for our next family reunion?

Friday Catblogging, part three

2009-05-08T13:42:00.001-07:00

This morning Nermal was munching on a custom blend of Whiskas from the packet, combined with a mushed-up chicken-flavored cat treat with incorporated thyroid-gland medication. 3 days ago when I tried to give Nerms the treat straight-up, she ate it and immediately puked twice- once on her mama's precious dining table and once on the floor, so you can see why I'm trying to mix it in with the wet food! Sadly, Nermal needs to eat more and yesterday while at the vet for Amelia's leukemia booster, I was told that apparently Amelia needs to eat less or maintain her weight, so I guess we'll experiment with wet and dry food for a while until we can get the right amount of food for each kitteh.

While this was happening, Amelia was laying claim to precious bed real estate. Anytime Sean or I wander into the bedroom, she follows us (or sometimes runs ahead of us) and jumps on the bed for loves. I love that!

Victory Garden

2009-05-07T13:51:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics I took of veggie box #1 last night. In addition to this veggie box, there are 2 tomato plants in a wine barrel, and

then ethere's another smaller veggie box a little closer to the house.

As you can see, we already have green strawberries on some of the plants, and on others, white flowers have begun to emerge. I planted three 6-packs of three different varietals, so we can see which I like best within the next month or so!

Weekend Wrapup: First Camping Trip of the Season

2009-04-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Sean and I packed up the hoopty and off we went to Samuel P. taylor State Park for two nights of "roughin' it". And oh! how we rough it was!

After setting up the campsite, we headed into Olema for a schmancy dinner at the Olema Inn Restaurant. Super-scrumptious, many of their dishes' ingredients are entirely harvested in the Point Reyes area. We began with 8 oysters, of 4 different taste sensations. Next, we shared a pea shoot salad with sliced and roasted almonds, avocado, beets, and chevre in a light and tangy vinegarette. Sean had a tuna tartare dish as his main, which was intermixed with avocado and kumquat, and impressively molded into a disc shape, topped with wanton crunchies. I opted for the risotto- fresh green peas (I swear you would think they were dyed- they were so green!) and locally-foraged chanterelles. So good! Dessert brought Sean a berry-topped cheesecake and for me, panna cotta- the best I'd ever had- with a grapefruit/fennel/honey accoutrement that was pretty good but that Sean didn't particularly care for. 5 stars! Even more stars because the food quality and presentation were top-notch, but you don't have to dress up- this is my favorite combination. I hate dressing up for the privelage of paying $100 for dinner.

The picture above was taken on the hike we took on the Bear Valley trailhead. I think Sean was delirious from exhaustion!

We also met Heather and Michael last weekend. We got to tour Michael's familys' new house in Nicasio, and shared meals at the Station House Cafe and at Nick's Cove. . . a new restaurant for me and Sean. When I see the pictures Michael took of all of us with Boo, I'll be sure to post them to the blog.

In the meantime, Happy Trails to YOU!

Monday catblogging! (Sorry for the delay)

2009-04-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

Friday was crazy-hectic with me being at an off-site meeting for most of the work day, and leaving work early to do some last-minute organizing (gasp!) for the camping trip. And so, with great anticipation. . . is Monday catblogging!

To the left is Amelia. . . with the fuzzy catnip pineapple in her mouth! Twice last night, she fetched the pineapple, carried it over to me and hopped on the couch, then dropped the pineapple before me. . . what a good girl! She even played "fetch" with Sean once- he threw it, and she retrieved it! Sadly, it was a one-time-only feat, but at least I captured a bit of it in the picture, as you can see the pineapple is in her clenches!

In the second photo, you can see that Nermal is not amused. We really need to get a few more pineapples going- both kittehs prefer the pineapple to the gay pride catnip raindow, and prefer the pineapple to any other toy, as a matter of fact.

Friday catblogging a'la Kevin Drum

2009-04-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

So, every Friday my Mother Jones magazine email update shows up with a feature which I think provides a nice contrast to stories about environmental plundering, economic woes, and the US relationship with Iran. . . cats. MoJo reporter Kevin Drum has a feature called "Friday catblogging" which consists of a few pics of his cats, Inkblot and Domino, and a description of what they're doing, or what their mood is like.

I'd like to attempt to imitate (sincerest form of flattery, right?) Kevin's sucessful feature with my own, of Friday catblogging. Today's blog post features Ameilia, who we've now had for 6 whole days!

Well, you've probably never before experienced a cat who behaves this nicely at the vet's office. She was alert, responsive, quiet and patient throughout the visit, that is, once she was able to leave her cat carrier. She hates the cat carrier. After we'd waited for 20 minutes in the waiting room, I had to ask the receptionist when we were likely the to see the whites of the eyes of a vet, because she was literally doing somersaults inside the carrier. And she started to talk. When you can make an essentially mute cat talk, you're doing something wrong!

But, once inside the room and outside the cruel confines of the cat carrier, she was as polite and curious as a cat can be. I would call for her to jump on the exam table, and she'd do it. She liked it when the vet tech brushed her teeth with poultry-flavored toothpaste. She didn't mind when the vet felt all around her chest and stomach. She was a very good girl!

These pictures wer taken during the consultation time of the vet appointment, when I was discussing the pros and cons of a heartworm prevention medicine. As you can see, she helped herself onto the supply table, and then started licking her chops- damn! that chicken flavored toothpaste sure is delicious!

Happy Friday, from Ameilia and the entire Brown and Catanese animal menagerie.

There's a new kitty in my life

2009-04-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Introducing Ameilia!

Amelia is a 4 year old tabby/tortie mix (called a Torby at the Sacramento SPCA). We tried out 3 beautiful girls Sunday morning, and I picked Amelia as our new housemate! Right now, she's in the kitty sequestering room, but she will probably have her "coming out" to Nermal, family and friends this weekend. Amelia is friendly and a little playful, but also enjoys making biscuits on the red fleece blanket and curling up for a nap. A few days ago, our Dove parents who have been nesting in an alcove on the porch hatched their babies, and they've been of interest to Amelia, who can see them from the cat condo and windowsill.

Sean and I had discussed getting another cat for a few weeks, and had just not taken the plunge until this weekend. In my opinion, Nermal appears indifferent. . . and that, I think, is a very good sign. Nermal turns 15 years old this spring and while Sean and I sought to provide her with feline companionship for her Golden Years, we also want to make sure there's not too much adolescent energy around!

Videoblogging with nomads

2009-03-30T20:13:00.000-07:00

So, last week when Chris and Cherie paid us a visit, they told us about a new project they will be working on as they travel around the U.S.- video "Tales from Technomadia". For this project, they will be videotaping short informational videos of locals who want to share their favorite sites, a little history, or whatever may be of interest to travelers. And Sean and I were the first interviewees!

Here's a link to their website.
http://www.technomadia.com/2009/03/tales-from-technomadia-video-edition/comment-page-1/#comment-31

Sean did a piece on the Spanish War Memorial in Capitol Park, followed by me talking about magnolia trees. Then, I talked a little about a cool urban forest hidden in downtown. Check it out! My lisp even came through on the audio!

Fake boobs, fake nails, fake rock? only at REI.

2009-03-23T16:29:00.000-07:00

I took Heather to REI, bceause she needs some hiking boots for the trips up to Nicasio. She tried on a few pairs and wouldn't you know it, REI had a fake rock you can climb, presumably to try out the tread. I like to think the grab bar was installed to make all parts of the store accessible to all users.

animals are good subjects for blogs

2009-03-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

A little "new" news on the Brown-Catanese animule farm. Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting Sean's friend Phil's beautiful feline named Stella. While at first she proved full of spitfire, over the course of 3 days she really warmed up to me. Sean, however, has the scars to prove he didn't get the privelage of ever calling her a friend during her brief stay with us.

In other news, starting a few weeks ago, a pretty grey dove took up residence in an alcove underneath the roof of the porch. The alcove seemed to be too small, though, because eventually she lost her nest and the eggs that were in in. Then, after a one week hiatus, she has returned and seems to be doing fine, with her nest in the same spot as before. She is one beautiful bird! This picture doesn't do her justice, I hope you can still pick her out.

Success! Apology from iResQ and a full refund on the way

2009-02-10T13:38:00.000-08:00

Hooray for persistence, the amazing webspace that brings together friends, family and strangers, and the eventual triumph of customer service. The general manager of iResQ called and left me a humbling apology and offered a full refund of the money I paid to get my iphone's screen replaced. He was couteous, humbled, and apologetic about my prior experiences with the customer service department at iResQ . . . he in no way endorsed the attempt of another iResQ employee to retract his offer of a partial refund unless I removed my "letter of complaint" from my blog. . . . I was assured he will continue to work with his customer service department so this deplorable situation won't happen again.

Thanks to all of you who read my blog postings, commented, or empathized with my outrage! I hope this experience has turned into a learning one for a company which has a lot to lose by failing to make their advertised service turnaround times, providing less-than-adequate customer service and sending veiled threats to blog authors.

BTW, I hope to receive my precious iphone via UPS today . . . . I cannot wait!

I hate IResQ

2009-02-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

Update in iResQ:
After some excessive “fact-checking” on their part, iResQ removed the diagnostic fee and overnight shipping charges from the bill, but not the cost to actually repair my phone. I agreed, finally, because it was obvious that this was the closest thing to customer service they were willing to provide. However, even though I already expect piss-poor customer service from iResQ, today they’ve exceeded my expectations. Today iResQ threatened to “rescind the refunds” UNLESS I REMOVED MY BLOG POST.Short of libel, independent consumers have every right to express anger and dissatisfaction with businesses that fail their expectations. iResQ’s blatant attempt to stifle negative feedback is completely unacceptable.

Since I know iResQ is reading this, let me address them directly: iResQ - If you cannot provide the service turnaround times promised on your website and by your customer service representatives, stop advertising them! As an “authorized service provider”, you should be grateful if I stop short of filing a complaint with Apple directly. Consumers deserve to hear the good, bad, and ugly about potential service providers. I’ve given you partial credit for a partial refund. You have responded with threats. You’ve already lost me as a customer, and I will leave this thread up as a notice to my friends, family, and anyone else who would consider using your “service.”

_____________________________________________________________

Okay, so you all have seen my iphone post about the screen shattering, etc. iResQ has a guarantee that they will fix your broken iphone the day it arrives. Well, it had been over a week, I upgraded to overnight shipping, and it still hadn't arrived. Finally, I call customer service, the representative went to the back where they fix the phones, and IT STILL HASN'T BEEN FIXED! I am SOOO frustrated! And all this, when there has been zero communication from iResQ to me. No phone call, sayting it is taking them longer to fix it, and they'll get it to me ASAP. Nada.

My recommendation? Don;'t ever send your iphone to iResQ. ever. I hate iResQ.

below is a copy of my email "letter of compaint" that I sent to iResQ.

Hello,
I recently called your customer service line to ask about the status of my iphone, which I mailed to your office on Tuesday, January 27th using overnight express mail via USPS. I was expecting the 24-hour turnaround that your website promised, and thought that at the latest, I could expect my phone on Friday, January 30th. It is now February 5th, and I still don’t have my phone back, even after I upgraded to overnight shipping. And, to top it off, I have received no further communication from anyone at iResQ letting me know that my phone repair has been delayed, and that the 24-hr turnaround time for servicing my phone could not be met.

I called your customer service line, and the representative went to check on my phone, and it still hasn’t been fixed, even after you’ve had it for over a week. While the customer service guy was as polite as could be, it does not remedy the situation where repair and delivery of my phone takes over a week longer than advertised, from a company who prides themselves on same-day service.

It is very frustrating to be without my phone for now, almost 2 weeks. I use it for personal calls, sms, work calendar and meeting planning, and business email. While I am seething and really want to complain to the Better Business Bureau, writing negative reviews to my blog site, etc., I would like to give you the opportunity to remedy the situation by not charging me for the cost to repair and return my phone to me via overnight shipping. I would like it very much if you could do this for me.

Please feel free to contact me about my request via email at
xxxx@xxxx.net

daytime phone at
xxx-xxx-xxx

Or at my husband’s cellphone after business hours at xxx-xxx-xxxx

Thank you.

Steeler Win = No Laundry for a Week

2009-02-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Neither one of us were too jazzed about the teams participating in the "world championship" of football yesterday, but we made a freindly wager nevertheless. After a minute of throught, we decided to wager doing all of the laundry for the week (including the backlog) single-handedly, with all the laundry being cleaned, folded or hung, and put away by the weekend. I was partial to the Steelers because it was Arizona who defeated my beloved Philly Eagles 2 weeks prior. the Steelers win effectively exhonerated me from helping out with the laundry for the week. Go Steelers! That'll make a football fan out of anyone.

iphone ist kaputt. sad face

2009-01-26T14:36:00.000-08:00

This is pretty much exactly what it looks like. . . it "hit the ground running" so to speak, on the sidewalk in front of the house. I have sent it along to iResQ in Olathe, Kansas for an emergency repair. I am hoping to see my pretty return sometime on Thursday. In the meantime, I can be reached on Sean's phone. All those who see this- take heed! Put that iphone case on your baby, right away!

Imelda Marcos lives on. . . .

2009-01-23T08:13:00.000-08:00

for some, in their hearts. For me, in my closet. Can you believe I can fit all of my shoes in this space? I can hardly believe it myself. then again, I did put 10 or 11 pairs in the goodwill pile.

Props to Sean for installation and patience, and to John and Kelly Barry for the awesome new cordless drill.

Movie Review: Revolutionary Road

2009-01-14T08:32:00.000-08:00

Wow!

I saw Revolutionary Road last night at our indie art deco theater in land Park, after deciding to play hooky from massage class. I am impressed- what a thought-provoking movie with lots of enriching dialogue and great 1950's-era costumes!

The film is about the changing relationship of Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, set in a 1950's suburb of NYC. Leo works in a souless job as a sales rep for a business machines company, and Kate is a stay-at-home mom. Neither seems to get that much satisfaction from their jobs, and this poses a sharp contrast to the scene when they first meet each other, and Kate is an aspiring actress, and Leo is floating his way through his young life. In this early scene, they were both vibrant and idealistic people.

There was a scene or two when my jaw dropped and I thought "oh.my.god. . . . is he really saying that?" Lots of shock value throughout the film, and I liked how they downplayed the 2 kids to focus instead on the relationship between Kate and Leo. It cetainly morphed over time, that's about all I can say about that. Kate did an excellent job of portraying progressively increasing emotional indifference toward Leo as the film progressed.

One downside (or impact?) of the film was that I came home thinking I definately don't want to have kids anytime soon. . . . . . fine with me!

Heather recommended this film to me- I'm not sure if she saw it already and loved it too, or just really wanted to see it. Either way, I highly recommend it. In theaters everywhere on January 23rd.

My first birthday card just arrived!

2008-12-30T14:52:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the sweet note, Camie!

can't get enouugh restaurant reviews? (shameless plug for Yelp!)

2008-12-19T15:52:00.000-08:00

I heard from at least one of my valued readers that they most enjoy my posts that are restaurant reviews. As of a few days ago, I became a Yelper (http://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=GN5l17b-uAsJV3sYL4L7WA) , and this link will take you to the couple of reviews that I have already posted. I plan on adding more restaurant reviews as time goes on, or if one of my readers would like to join me in a restaurant critic-capacity, come one up, and we'll write a review together! I should also mention that if you yelp, please add me a friend so we can check out each others hot spots! Kelly-this means you!

Restaurant Review: Burma Superstar

2008-12-15T12:06:00.000-08:00

On Friday night, I had the pleasure of discovering that the San Francisco culinary landmark Burma Superstar recently opened another restaurant in Alameda! I had burmese samusas (tres spicy. . . and delicious!), pumpkin pork (pork shanks in a creamy curry made with cabasa squash), coconut rice and the spicy rice made with cardamon pods. Everything was SO delicious, I know I'll have to return soon! Heather- care to join me next time?

Sean "Felled" a Tree

2008-12-09T11:02:00.000-08:00

the annual sacrifice of the evergreen, to spice up our holiday season!

True story: Sean promised me we could have a fresh-cut tree every christmas. He promised me this before he married me, because he knows how much I've always loathed the plastic abomination we used at my house growing up. . . you know, the one with the metal pole in the center? LOL! No offense, though Dad- I know "real" christmas trees are a pain in the ass to set up.

Gingers on the ice!

2008-12-09T10:50:00.000-08:00

Don't know what a "ginger" is? Check out this article!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger_Kids

Note that "kick a Ginger day" is Heather and Sean's Dad Gregg's birthday. Coincidence- I think not!

These pictures were taken on Saturday afternoon, when I met my friend Kevin (ginger #2) and Heather at Embarcadero center for a spin around the ice rink!

Please Join us Sunday for a Housewarming Open House

2008-12-01T15:24:00.000-08:00

Our housewarming event is Sunday night, December 7th. I hope you can make it! I know that I don't have many of my blog readers' email addresses, but consider viewing this page as your invite! Please send me a comment if you're one of the ones whose email address is missing.

Here is the text of the invitation:

Thanks to all of you, our wonderful support crew, for listening patiently while we went through the ups and downs of the long and arduous house-buying process. Please join us this Sunday to kick back with us, meet some new friends, and celebrate our new home!We'll have plenty of kid and adult-friendly beverages and appetizers, so just bring yourself, a guest or two (if you like!), and a smile. We'd love to see you Sunday anytime after 6pm.

Love and well wishes,Lindsay and Sean

P.S. parking is allowed on only one side of the street, so please carpool if you can!

Green tea ice ream tastes like. . . celery?

2008-11-25T16:09:00.000-08:00

Last week we celebrated closing escrow on the Brown-Catanese bungalow with dinner at our favorite sushi establishment in Sacramento, Nishiki on 16th street. At the end of dinner, I still had a little room left, so we ordered the green tea ice cream made by Gunther's (near-famous local ice cream parlor). And. . . it tasted like celery! No kidding. It looked like green tea ice cream and still had the subtle green tea flavor, but there were some celery undertones in there, too. Just a little something extra they mixed in, i think. Anyway, it was delicious, and something I'll definately order again!

2008-11-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

Update!
I am counting on closing escrow Friday. . . and will seriously be disappointed if it doesn't happen. But I have a feeling it will. . . honestly. To calm my nerves a bit, I've been keeping myself busy preparing for the move by renting a truck, buying a futon for overnight guests, etc. Tomorrow I will try to have the water, sewer and recycling/trash services transferred over to our names. . . very exciting.

Please keep me in your thoughts and hopes that we can get the house keys on Friday! And, let me know if you're available to lend a hand on Saturday or Sunday.

Love to all!

sometimes the simplest things. . . . .

2008-11-14T17:10:00.000-08:00

can prove to be so difficult!
You wouldn't think it would be that difficult to find hexagon or octagon- shaped bathroom floor tile, and it turns out its only hard if you need it IN STOCK! Sorry. . . just had to vent for a second. To make the long story short, I had to take 5 hours off from work just to find basic tiles for our bathroom floor, and the work isn't finished yet! Still 2 more HomeDepots left to go to so I can scrap together 8 additional square feet of coverage. Wish me luck- I'm exhausted!

May I take your ticket, please?

2008-11-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

I was honored by the experience of becoming an Amtrak intern yesterday on the Capitol Corridor. I was outfitted with a cool "conductor" hat, and got to take tickets from the many Raiders fans headed to yesterday's staggering defeat. They were a rowdy, but very fun bunch! I also got to make a few announcements over the intercom, and my conductor friend Kevin said I should try to channel a deeper louder voice, I think to jar the sleepyheads awake so they didn't miss their stops! I also got to take the little pastel tags above people's seats and remind them that "__" is the next stop. It was a lot of fun, hopefully Kevin will decide I make a worthy Amtrak apprentice and continue my internship!

Photo credits: Kevin, for taking the photo, and Dad, for lessening the red in Photoshop.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T08:50:00.001-07:00

That's right, I'm a Soulless Bureaucrat for Halloween, which may not be that far off from the truth!

Our house. . . in escrow!

2008-10-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

At the end of this posting, there's a link to Sean's Flickr page, where he posted a few pics of our future house.

Escrow seems to keep running on, and now almost all of the inspections needed are done. The seller has about $11,000 worth of work to do before our loan can go through, luckily they agreed to do all of this when they agreed to accept our offer.

Hopefully we'll be moved in before Thanksgiving! We'll keep everyone posted on the date of our housewarming party.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/31632785@N05/?find=seancatanese%40gmail.com

Recipe for Delicious

2008-10-15T08:23:00.001-07:00

On Friday night, Sean made a most delicious meal at our campsite in Samuel P.Taylor State Park. I thought I'd share it with you.

Ingredients:
1 loaf La Brea Bakery 3-cheese semolina bread, cut into 1/2 inch slices
1 small wedge port salut cheese (low melting point!), cut into slices
1 small wedge Spring Hill garlic Jack cheese, cut into slices
1/4 stick salted butter
campfire for ambience
redwood tree canopy
pan
lots of napkins
1 perfectly ripe avocado

Make cheese sandwiches, I like one of port salut and one of garlic jack. Heat up the pan, and throw in a little butter. Add 2 sandwiches, turn over in a few minutes when the bread is nicely browned. Add more butter if necessary. When both sides are brown, put two sandwiches on a plate and garnish with avocado slices (unless you're Sue Brown, then you omit the avocado slices). Wait 30 seconds for the sandwiches to cool enough to pick up with your hands and eat. Watch the cheesy gooeyness ooze out of the back of the sandwich. Look up at the tree canopy above you. Treasure the moment.

Homie has wheels!

2008-10-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Sean and I bought our first car, a 1992 civic 4-door. We've already taken off the Honda symbol on the trunk and the Civic name has worn off, so we have about as close to a generic-looking car as you can get! I'll try to take some pics of it tonight to post tomorrow.

Thai lunch at Osha with Mosh

2008-10-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

Friday night I took Amtrak down to hang with Heather until Saturday night. We had a great time, seeing Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist at the new mall. It was definately a feel-good movie, and Michael Cera has the cutest expressions . . ever.

Saturday, Mosh made me a killer breakfast in her fancy-schmancy breakfast maker (a toaster with an attachment that steams sausage and poaches an egg). It was mighty tasty. Then we headed to Union Street to attend a party at LUSH. . . where we won prizes and got freebies and goodie bags! We definately raked it in. Next, we went to lunch at Osha, a chain of 5 thai restaurants in san Francisco. Below are some pics of our tasty lunch specials!

Photo credits: Heather Brown and her iphone

Where's Waldo?

2008-10-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Across the street from work is the local prison. I have a great view of a hallway where I can usually see prioners hanging out in their bright orange jumpsuits. Here's today's challenge- find Waldo! Hint- he's wearing bright orange!

Bowling for Team Jesus

2008-10-02T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

The Planning and Urban Development League (PUDL) is in full swing, and I have so far bowled two nights. The league is on every Monday night at Capitol Bowl in West Sacramento, but I share a slot with my boss at work, so we take turns as far as who represents the General Plan Team. My first night, my high score was a 90, but this Monday I bowled a 114, which is very close to my highest score. . . ever! I'm setting a goal for the season of 130, so wish me luck! Seen here are Chris and Cherie, who bowled with me 2 weeks ago. . . . they were excellent teammates! This league has been a fun way to kick back with some of my coworkers and meet other planners and environmental anaylsts in the area.

Happy Birthday, Sean!

2008-09-30T08:46:00.000-07:00

Today is Sean's birthday. . . Happy Birthday, love of my life! I've always seen birthdays as a reminder to honor that person for the influence they've made in your life. I'm so lucky to have met Sean, he has brought so much happiness and companionship to my life. Thanks for being yourself, and loving me so completely, Sean. Happy Birthday!

If you'd like to email Sean a birthday wish, his personal email is seancatanese at gmail.com

Fight Breast Cancer with me!

2008-09-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
I'll be walking against breast cancer on October 19th here in Sacramento, in a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. I'll post my walk-related website here tomorrow in the hopes that you can walk with me, sponsor me with a donation, or join a walk against breast cancer in your community.

I walked for the Susan Komen foundation a few years ago and raised some money, but this year I have an even better reason: Sean's grandma, Valerie Catanese. Valerie was diagnosed with breast cancer in August of this year, and has recently undergone a lumpectomy to remove a few cysts. Recovery from any surgery is hard, and in this case, Valerie's recovery was no different. It was especially difficult to recover from the anesthesia- I hope the surgery eradicated the breast cancer and that her days of surgery are over.

Thanks for sponsoring me, walking with me, and keeping Valerie in your thoughts or prayers. Thanks also to Kelly Brown, who has offered me $1 in sponsorship money for every new post in my blog from today until October 19th!

Here's my personal website for my walk against breast cancer, where you can sponsor me, join me, or send me a note.

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCFY09California?px=8207623&pg=personal&fr_id=11603&et=Xz1Wja2P_KEkOmIOpsVhow..&s_tafId=193564

I Heart Mr. Bento . . .Again!

2008-08-26T12:01:00.000-07:00

And here's a pic from today's Bento delite. Haricot Vert, diet coke with ice, wheat thins, watermelon chunks, and leftover linguine with prawns, sundried tomatoes and spinach from Lucca.

I Heart Mr. Bento!

2008-08-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

Having been inspired by KellyAnn's admirations of Mr. Bento lunches, I finally decided to treat myself to the high cost of a Mr. Bento from Amazon.com. $50, but that makes up for itself in just 2 weeks by bringing my lunch to work instead of going out ! This is my first picture of Mr. Bento. . . not quite the stunning cutesy-character esque bento creations showcased on the Mr. bento porn site on Flickr. http://www.flickr.com/groups/mrbento/, (safe for work. . I promise!) but very tasty! I will try to remember to take a new pic of my Mr. bento meal today, which includes a smidgen of tasty leftovers from Lucca, a really good continental reasturant near my house in Midtown. In the picture is wheat thins with Cypress Grove chevre and Molinari salami, spinach salad with feta and heirloom tomatoes, and some pre-marinated tri-tip from Costco I cooked up Sunday afternoon. I filled the fourth dish with watermelon, but I ate it before I thought to record it for all of time!

Mom and Dad share their anniversary with the kids

2008-08-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

This weekend mom and dad came up to celebrate their 38th anniversary with their kids. Heather came over on Amtrak (sans Tyrone) and everyone had a good time lounging about. As Dad posted, we did a little shopping and Mom. . . . I'm so proud of Mom. . . tried Thai food again for the first time in probably 15 years, and (drum roll please) Enjoyed it! She was especially impressed with the sticky rice and mango dessert, perfectly garnished with a magenta-hued cymbidium orchid. I only wish i had the foresight to have taken a picture. Here are two pics Dad took of our crew at the Starbucks next to the Amtrak station Sunday morning.

Sittin' on the dock of the bay. . .

2008-08-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Beautiful family and friends!

This weekend I got to sail around San Francisco Bay on a 20-something foot sailboat! We left from the west side of Fort Mason at around 2pm and returned about 4. I even go to sail underneath the Golden Gate to the ocean side! Did you know that part of the bridge's underside isn't red, but a turquis-ey green? true story! And let me tell you, it was SO windy, I thought we would keel over! But dead men tell no tales, so obviously I made it out alive to tell the story. Maybe Dad will tell one of his stories of sailing to Sausalito/tiburon when he was in high school. . . Anyway, i had a great time, and will look for more opportunities to earn my sea legs, or seal legs, whichever comes first.

Disneyland was a blast!

2008-08-06T15:21:00.001-07:00

I can say with certainty that everyone greatly enjoyed the pilgrimage to Disneyland. Although the drive was long, the delicious churros and thrill of Disney made the treacherous trek worthwile.
Got to run to a meeting, but I'll post more on the trip soon!

Poverty Meal in Sacramento

2008-07-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

So, last night Campbell, Sean and I tried to eat dinner at Ernesto's mexican restaurant in downtown, only because Sean and I got $70 in gift certificates for our wedding that we were saving until we were too poor to go out to eat. Which, or course, was yesterday. I don't get paid until Friday, Cammie wasn't going to be paid until today, and poor Sean doesn't get his paycheck until (gasp!) tuesday. So using a gift card for dinner would be a good idea, something to lull us into thinking we weren't actually poor. But no!

Despite our excellent parking karma, Ernesto's had a 35-minute wait, on Wednesday night at 7? weird. A crowd was gathered in the opening alcove, and since it was so hot and there was no space at the bar to have a drink and wait, my impatience took over and I decided we should go somewhere else for dinner, even if it meant using the seldom-used credit card. Which we keep around for fiscal emergencies, when it's too hot to cook, you feel sick, and have already spent your meager earnings on other essentials.

I voted for Pluto's, Sean voted for sushi, so the deciding vote went to Cammie, who rightly chose Pluto's. Cammie and I had "side" salads- which covered the dinner plate and formed a nice salad mountain-and foccacia bread, which had a lot of rosemary and was super-yummy. Sean had their sandwich special- kind of a french dip with cheese which reportedly was mediocre, but he graciously shared his spicy garlic fries with the salad-grazers. Coupled with a honey mustard, the fries made the meal.

Cammie treated us to yogurt at Big Spoon, also in the mall. We both agree that cheesecake bites are the best topping there, although they often are torn to shreds by the spoon and end up sticking together in the bowl. But they still taste good!

Altogether, a great meal with excellent company. I look forward to going to Disneyland with Cammie, Heather and (hopefully) Miss Acacia, where we will no doubt sample the fine dishes served at the Carnation Plaza Character Breakfast Buffet, the French Market, and Napoli in Downtown Disney! And churros for a nighttime treat, pineapple whip at the Tiki House for a midday heat-abating snack. Look for a post on our Disney adventure in a few weeks!

Cousin's Wine and Dine at Ella

2008-06-13T08:14:00.000-07:00

So, Campbell had a great idea- lets meet up for Sacramento's week of prix-fix meals coupled with a wine flight, called "Wine and Dine". We chose Ella because they had fish selections in addition to the usual chicken or beef options, and because it's a new restaurant (opened about 6 months ago). The interior was fabulous! Inviting atmosphere, really nice lounge/waiting area with fancy modern (yet comfortable!) couches, and nice touches such as white cake pedastols and white vases as decoration.

The first course was really great- a lobster bisque with largish chinks of delicious lobster. Coupled with the soup was a sauvignon blanc from Easton winery in the foothills of the Sierra, which was crisp and delicious. The second course left both of us a little bewildered. Salmon with fava and corn (okay, sounds good. . . . ) but flavored heavily with huge chunks of ham? Needless to say, this one was bizarre, and the wine course didn't help it much. The grenache chosen to couple with the entree tasted unlike a granache, and more like a merlot mixed with port- no, seriously, it was a sweet, red wine. Ugh. It also didn't look like a grenache- it looked like port, even! Not to be a wine snob or anything.

The brownie and ice cream dessert was super tasty, and the chocolate flavor was rich and complex, so that balanced out a poor main course selection. However, the Muscat wine they served was on th sweet side for a Muscat. . I briefly entertained the notion of toning it down with a splash of water. the flavor was good, though.

Ella is a really fancy restaurant, and I expected the quality to be a little better than what I got for $50. I think next time I want a nice dinner out, I'll stick with Biba, or try a new place.

A Stellar 4th Place Finish!

2008-06-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

Last night was the final night of my 12-week bowling leaugue, comprised of planners, architects, and environmental analysts. The league is called PUDL- the Planning and Urban Development League, and we've been playing at Capitol Lanes in West Sacramento, where the blinking bar lights blend in with the signs for less-than-legitimate motels. After our initial 12th place out of 12 teams standing, we've risen like foam on a pale ale to finish in 4th place! While Julie is usually our best player, last night Shalini scored highest on our team. After 4 rounds, we were exhausted! I will probably seek to improve my scores when league begins again in September. Wish me some turkeys!

Gloria Rocks Out

2008-05-29T10:17:00.001-07:00

We're Jammin'. . . and I hope you like jammin', too!

2008-05-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

While in the heart of the Central Valley, Dad and I churned out 24 half-pints of "Nectar of the Gods", otherwise known as Strawberry Jam.

Other than sustaining a minor injury caused by the leaping acrobatics of boiling water out of the sterilizer pot, making jam indoors went pretty smoothly, although sadly the bathches were much smaller than could be accododated by moving the operation outside. Dad's sole medium-sized magnalite saucepot was woefully inadequate- hopefully we can remedy the shortage with some ebay purchases.

Kareoke Jam Session!

2008-05-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

This last weekend Moshy, Tyrone and I headed south to Mer-dead for a Kareoke/Jam session. I borrowed some discs for the wiii and a microphone from my boss who was on vacation for the week prior, and we brought the private kareoke booth to the family room.

Mom especially liked singing Celine Dion's "My Heart will go On", for which Dad happily provided backup and harmony. Moshy and I preferred "Rio" and "Glamorous".

We learned that "Bohemian Rhapsody" is not such an easy song to sing, when you don't get to pick-and-choose the verses you sing!

day to celebrate mommies!

2008-05-11T13:05:00.000-07:00

this morning my parents are coming up from Merced, and Heather came on the train to Sacarmento. We'll probably do some thrifting (wish us luck on the thrifting karma!) and then we have a fondue reservaton at 4:30. More pics and a story to follow later!