I Love Food & Life

Breakfast

2012-02-09T09:14:00.000-06:00

One of the hardest things, so far, about the pregnancy is feeding myself. My diet is so strict, moreso now than ever. I feel as if food has become the enemy. I eye everything suspiciously, eat it cautiously and wait the results of what my meter will tell me 2 hours later.

Right now, breakfast is my stress. My usual PB&J sandwich is no more, at least for a while because, according to the books my doctors have me reading, consuming peanut butter may lead to The Astronaut having asthma problems. Say what?! And just like that, my go-to breakfast is no more. I like a good egg sandwich but, by the time I eat it at the office, it's cold. Cereal and milk raise my blood glucose to really bad levels. So, here I am, trying to research some better, quicker but still yummy breakfast options for my morning work days. I know the yummy and healthy answer is out there. I just have to find it.

Great Expectations

2012-02-08T07:51:00.001-06:00

Yup, good old Margie went and got herself knocked up and on purpose too! Today marks the 14th week and, so far, so good. Both the BNC and I are very happy and scared and excited and just happy. It was a very planned pregnancy and surprisingly, we conceived a few months after officially trying.

It hasn't been without its worries. I'm 35 years old and diabetic so I'm a high risk pregnancy already. But, my A1c is sitting beautifully at 5.9 which, according to my endo, means that I may not have to take insulin at any point during the pregnancy. It's quite the surprise since pregnant diabetics most likely will have to at one point. My diet is even more strict though. No aspartame, no diet drinks or foods, no caffeine, no yummy bologna or hot dogs or soft cheeses. Ouch. But, it's for the greater good. I've been a walking fool as well. With all these restrictions though, I've managed to lose 11 pounds and yet The Astronaut, as we've dubbed him/her, is growing and looking good.

Given all this, I've never felt dumber in my entire life than I do right now mostly because I haven't really experienced any pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness. It gets me worried that I haven't but, my doctor says it's ok. Everything going on with me is normal, and that eases my worries. Thank goodness for books and understanding doctors.

So, here I am. All knocked up and scared to death. It's going to be a good trip.

Merry New Year!

2012-01-03T08:47:00.000-06:00

And just like that, 2011 is over. My 2011 New Year's Resolution was to make a list of places to eat at that either I had never been to or it'd been a while.

As you can see, I didn't make it. It sucks but oh well. Perhaps in the new year I can finally make there but in Houston, many new and yummy restaurants open up and well, may as well add them to The List. I'm not going to make a new list though. If I make it, I make it.

My New Year's Resolution for 2012 though is to focus more on my own health. According to my own doctor's, I'm doing very well. But, with diabetes, I want to get better. I always want to get better.

A much better update to follow detailing how I spent my summer and fall and the beginning oh winter.

Beef jerky time.

New Kids on the Block CHECK!

2011-07-06T14:37:00.160-05:00

Mom and I, 1978.

During the late 1980s, I was a new teenager. I am also the only girl in a Mexican household stuck between a brother sandwich. All that means is hearing, "No, because you are a girl" a lot. What it had to do with anything has been part of my argument whenever this topic arises between my mom and I. Mom, can I join little league with my brothers? Sleep overs? Movies with my friends? You name it, I wasn't allowed to do because I was a girl. All that good shit you're supposed to do with your friends, denied. The one that hurt most was being denied to go and see New Kids on the Block. I was in love with Joey McIntyre and Donnie Wahlberg. All I wanted to do was go to their concert and finally meet Joey. But despite my tears, the begging, the lame attempts at bargaining, that damn phrase was uttered to me by my overly protective mother. It's a sore spot for me, but I'm not mad at my mother. I don't hate her for what she did. I completely understand why she did me the way she did. I'm her daughter, her only daughter. I know the very thought of anything happening to her only daughter would hurt her. However, it wasn't right. I feel like I missed out on a great deal. But I never, ever forgot about New Kids on the Block. I've had their Greatest Hits CD in heavy rotation for years. (As I type this, Step By Step plays in the background.) Music is magical. It can transport you back in time and make you feel that way in said time. Music is like a DeLorean, flux capacitor and all but without the requisite 88 MPH. I listen to this CD and I'm back in middle school, 12 years old, watching the videos on MTV rather than doing Ms. Chatmon's math homework and wanting to hug Joey. My mom's tough rules were a tough pill to swallow but I cannot go back in time and fix it. I can only move forward and buy some MFing NKOTB tickets and make my inner 12-year-old happy. Holla.

So, on June 25, 2011 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas with my best friend since our middle school days, as well as some new friends, we went and cheered. I cheered the realization of my dream as well as the fact that my mom couldn't say no. No one could. Instead, I got much encouragement and some high fives. I even managed to get the BNC to drop me and my friends off like a boss. And so, another box is checked in my Before I Turn 35 Bucket List. I am happy. Very, happy.

Behold, photographic evidence. Be warned, it's image heavy.

My BFF (far left) and a new friend waiting for the show to begin.

Don't fall Joey!

Joey singing Please Don't Go Girl. I screamed things at him. Naughty things.

And then, Jordan walked towards our section!

Closer...

And closer...

CLOSE! ZOMG, he's right there!

What's with the horns? Maybe it was when a snippet of AC/DC's Back in Black played.

The concert was amazing. Honestly, I was expecting both NKOTB and BSB to sing to pre-recorded music, do a little dance and that would be it. My bad. They had a live band and some nice choreography. These guys aren't new anymore, and they're either pushing 40 or surpassed it yet they can move. I hurt for 2 days afterwards and all I did was stand up, scream and wave my arm back and forth because Donnie told me to. It was one of the best concerts I had ever been to.

And so, one of my many dreams was realized. I went, I screamed, I bought some T-shirts and my heart burst. It was awesome. So, now on to more check boxes of my Before I Turn 35.

The Summer of Margie resumes...

The Summer of Margie

2011-06-08T07:00:00.008-05:00

I had cousins, the naughty ones that always got you in trouble kind, that, even if they passed the school year, were forced to attend summer school. It wasn't a strategic move in order for my aunt to get her kids ahead on their education (cause 2 of them turned out to be high school dropouts) but rather, it was just a move to get them out of her hair. It was brilliant because they were unruly. I used to be jealous of such an opportunity not because I loved school (well a little since they had books and toys and crayons and my friends) but shit, you try keeping your cool in hot ass Mexico where an air conditioning unit was for the rich. AC units aren't pricey but as hot as Mexico was, that meant the unit would be on 24/7 leading to a high electricity bill. Just thinking about it and I can feel myself getting itchy and sweaty.

I should mention that we got shipped out to Grandma's house in Mexico every damn summer.

What's my point? I'm going to severely cut back on my blogging posts this summer. With my recent book store visits lately, I've amassed several books that are in desperate need of being loved. Today I will finally receive the next book in the series I am reading. After trying to find it at the used bookstores, I had to use Amazon and order it. It cost me $2 and it is tattered and I love it. I'm super excited about it afterall, reading is FUNdamental.

I'll continue to tackle My List of Places to eat in 2011, Netflix love, cooking with Bitty but I'll also be reading more, which means less TV, and I'll be rejoining a bowling league on Friday nights. Side Note: The first night I joined a bowling league, 10 years ago, Tropical Storm Allison hit and we spent the night in the bowling alley. Sometimes you can't make this shit up. And we're back.

I'm calling this summer, The Summer of Margie, just like George except I'll continue to work. There are several books to read, movies to watch (HP, Green Lantern, Captain America), parks to visit, trips to plan, friends to hang out with, new food to eat and, let's not forget, I'll be turning 35 at the end of the summer. And while I have no plans to cease stumping for Harry, sleeping with Buster or watching Jem and the Holograms, it's a big number. Basically, I have a pre-35 bucket list. I have several things I'm working on that, as much as I want to, I cannot share with you at the moment. But, trust me, I will. So, I'm going to have fun this summer. I'm going to try and do so many things, most of which are going to be new adventures for me, but, at the same time, I'm planning on chilling a lot with the cats and my books. Posting is going to be erratic and, since I won't be trying to make proper posts for you, I've started a tumblr where posting a single picture is more than enough. Feel free to follow me there.

Lastly, share with me your summer reading, or whatever it is you have going on this summer. Maybe I'll join you.

After These Messages

2011-05-25T08:37:00.001-05:00

Doing some spring cleaning at home and at work. Please pardon the mess.

Ice Cream Treats

2011-05-20T08:13:00.000-05:00

It's Product Review Friday!

Let's start with Blue Bunny's Sweet Freedom No Sugar Added cones in snack size. Right off the bat, you will notice how tiny they are. They were roughly the size of the BNC's thumb. Despite that, it was the perfect little size that satisfied the craving for a sweet treat. It didn't taste like a diet snack and it wasn't overly sweet either. It even comes with a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure. You can either throw your head back and slide the loose peanuts from the bag into your hungry mouth or you can pick up the peanuts with the top of your already bitten off cone and then take a bite out of it.

The final verdict: Put it in the cart .

Next up, Skinny Cow Cookies 'n Cream Truffle bars. The bar itself was more than plenty to satisfy that craving. The taste, while not completely coming off as cookies 'n cream, was subtle and creamy. I did get a bit of a toothache from the cold but I chalk that up to not having enough tooth real estate and thus dipping into gum territory. Go figure.

The final verdict: Put it in the cart but perhaps in other flavors.

Lastly, Skinny Cow Ice Cream Cone. The taste of these was a bit overwhelming. It was so rich and slightly overpowering on the tongue. However, if you keep at it you'll learn to appreciate the decadent fudge on soft chocolate ice cream. Drink a glass of water, you'll be okay. My only other non-issue was how hard it was to get the wrapper off the cone. I kept thinking my Hulk Strength was going to crush the cone and I would be left without the joy of an ice cream cone.

The final verdict: Put it in the cart. Put 2 in the cart.

The BNC and I are having a good time trying out various treats that are easy on me. We're preferential to the snack size Blue Bunny cones because it's a perfect little snack. You run such a high risk of overdoing it with a half gallon of ice cream and trying to figure how many scoops you should get and how generous those precious scoops should be. The portion control of the above ice cream treats appeals to us a great deal and, as long Blue Bunny and Skinny Cow keep churning them out, then I'll keep trying them out.

Full of Food

2011-05-16T08:46:00.002-05:00

I had to hit the 'burbs this weekend for the Katy Budget Books Semi-Annual Sale in Katy, Texas. Dolla books make me holla, y'all. Brother's Pizzeria though makes me squee! And, since I rarely see The Chapa anymore, I made him meet there for lunch after I scarfed up some books at the book sale.

The usual large with cheese even if sometimes I get daring and get pepperoni. And, it has to be baked extra crispy. Oh baby.

However, the spaghetti with meatballs, with it's chunky, fresh, not too sweet marinara is amazing. It's a simple sauce but it's delicious. I woofed it all down. Ok, not really, but I came close. They offer kid's meals now so, next time, I will have to do that so I can eat more pizza. Holla!

Sunday consisted of our usual House of Pies visit and try as I might, I continue to choose the Waffle Platter. I rarely finish it

For Sunday dinner, it was made up of rice, beans and fajitas. I used old reliable corn tortillas to make tacos while the BNC used Romaine lettuce to make his. Whack.

My rice was perfect this time and I used part of my last batch of frozen beans. As for the fajitas, or skirt steak, I cooked them with some sweet onions. When they were almost done, I added a touch of tomato paste, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes for that slight kick to the teeth that you sometimes need until you bite down on a tiny fleck, cause you're lucky like that, and you vow to start using the SMIDGEN measuring rather than DASH.

Good stuff. Good weekend.

Feliz Dia de las Madres

2011-05-10T12:40:00.001-05:00

In Mexico, May 10 is always Mother's Day. Always. You can't forget it. I have yet to speak to my Ama (my grandma) but maybe she is still asleep since she likes to party hard and didn't answer the phone when I tried contacting her at 6a today. Or, maybe she knows it was me and is letting me sweat because I called so early.

Anyhow, I took my mom out to lunch today and, since my Old Man tends to be off on Tuesdays, he was more than happy to join in. May as well since he filled the role of mom when she was off making some paper.

The role of Favorite Daughter is stressful and requires much time but the reward is immeasurable.

What would you do...for a Klondike Bar?

2011-05-10T08:34:00.000-05:00

I purchased some Klondike No Sugar Added bars this past weekend. I usually try to avoid products with such a label because it means very little. It can be full of carbs, which, if unused, will turn into sugar. It can also mean that no additional sugar was added but other fructoses were added to compensate for the missing sugar. However, after carefully reading the Klondike bar's label, I was satisfied enough to take them home and give them a whirl.

The candy coating taste has not changed. It retains that distinctive Klondike taste. As for the ice cream contained within that yummy chocolate, it has that diet taste to it. To me, it's just a tiny reminder of why I'm limited to some food items especially when it comes to my old ice cream addiction.

Klondike has great flavors but oddly, the no sugar added one is missing from its site. But, wtf, a rocky road one?!

Ok, focus...

I also added these: Skinny Cow No Sugar Added Vanilla ice cream sandwiches. With 4g of fiber, I just couldn't pass these up. They are yummy, filling and exactly what one needs when you need a little something after dinner.

Being a diabetic will always have me on my toes. I love food too much to think of it as my enemy and one should never think of food as such. However, everyone is different. What works for me may not work for others. But, researching, testing and making yourself available to new things is a great start.

Happy eating!

Let Us

2011-05-03T07:23:00.001-05:00

The BNC, without having to, partakes in my sugar-free diet. He eats, and drinks, reduced sugar, low fat, high fiber, whole grain, zero calorie, low sodium stuff with me. It's one of the many reasons I love him. His support means the world and makes what I have to do so much easier. And while I don't enjoy all the good stuff I'm supposed to eat, I don't stop him from enjoying what he likes.

So, on Sunday (and Monday) we I made lettuce wraps. I used my new purple Slap Chop on some onions and tomatoes and cooked them down alongside some ground chuck.

The mixture was seasoned with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes and some tomato paste.

As a side dish, I made rice with orzo. (Is that rice pilaf?) Whichever, it was yums and both the rice and orzo were perfectly cooked.

I toasted and cooked them together and out it came; perfect.

I didn't eat any lettuce but, from the looks and sounds of it, they looked and tasted awesome.

It's certainly a dish that will be put into heavy rotation especially with summer looming and the desire to crank up that oven grows less and less.

ps....excuse the shadows, the weird lighting and the less than stellar photos. I'm still trying to find my angles as well as work the laptop I recently received. Thank you, come again.

If the boat is a-rockin'

2011-04-28T07:14:00.001-05:00

Since I was a kid, I have always had issues with motion sickness. As time passed, my sensitivity to it got worse. I can't read 2 words in the car without wishing for a swift death. If I'm a passenger in the car, oy, so much worse. I watch a movie shot with a shaky camera, nauseaville. (I'm looking at you, Cloverfield!) Whenever I travel via car, I take Dramamine. However, as some of my meds have changed, my desire to ease up on taking unnecessary pills has gotten greater. For example, my insomnia has eased up tremendously and I have ceased taking Lunesta. I rarely get headaches but, if I do find myself getting ill, or nauseous, etc. I go for some ginger ale. The motion sickness is something I couldn't get around though. I had to take Dramamine. With an upcoming trip, I did my usual of stocking up on it until, right next to the Dramamine, I discovered this:

These are called Sea Bands and they are designed to apply pressure to your wrist to help ease up on the motion and sea sickness as well as the nausea. With my mini-trip upstate this past weekend to hang out with my punk ass Godchildren, I had the opportunity to test them out. I found myself able to read things such as texts, CD covers, receipts, labels, etc. I never once felt like my head was about to explode. It was remarkable.

If you're like me and are extremely sensitive to motion sickness, I highly recommend these. As a bonus, you may feel like a superhero. I, for one, felt like Wonder Woman.

Flashback Friday (Thursday)

2011-04-21T07:30:00.000-05:00

One day, my phantom children will look at these pictures and giggle about how old they look. They'll notice the wood paneling, the orange couch, the fluffy carpeting but not before they notice that I was wearing socks with sandals before Kevin Federline did it.

They'll notice that I sucked my thumb and I will tell the story of how old I was when my mom traumatized me into getting off the pacifier for good. (It involved a roach.)

But it's the clothes that we'll talk about more than anything else. My cute little dress, despite my underwear showing, even if it matched my dress and my cute, pink long sleeved tee with my brown plaid pants.

The 70's were a grand time (for the 3 years and some months in which I was alive). I was 3 years old in these photos and I remember most of the moments as they were captured on film.

Damn Kids

2011-04-13T07:15:00.001-05:00

Mom! Brother is all up in my sun spot and I was here first!

After weeks and weeks of being a complete shithead, Apolo finally allowed me to come home and now have shit on the floor. Maybe our failed attempt at taking Apolo to the vet where he whined and whined so much so that my BFF, with whom I was on the phone with, thought I was whipping a baby, gave him the scare he needed to STOP SHITTING OUTSIDE THE LITTER BOX. Maybe it was the fact that the vet's office was so packed, with people and pets still waiting to be seen after 3 hours, I decided to give up and come home. The secret is out on the vet and everyone is going there. Great. Then, just like that, the asshole cat stopped. I still wanted to beat him.

He's still a good cat but geez, he's incredibly picky, a bit of a bully and the sole butt scooter. Logan, on the right hand side, is very sweet and would love nothing more than to cuddle with you and, if you let him, nibble from your plate but, not unless you give him the go-ahead. I didn't raise no ill-mannered cat. In other words, for the most part, the damn kids are ok because, if my biggest problem is dealing with a shitting cat then I will gladly take it.

Oh, and dealing with Bitty Girl and her killing ways. Yea, I'll take it.

Top of the Muffin to You!

2011-04-11T09:48:00.000-05:00

I'm a huge Seinfeld fan. Huge. Insane. Not only do I possess the box set, with the accompanying coffee table book detailing every episode, but I also own the Scene-It Seinfeld game. I know. There are so many good episodes that whenever I try to name my Top 10 I end up leaving out several other good ones. I should just rank each episode, all 9 years of it.

Some great ideas have come out of Seinfeld such as the bro, the yada-yada, the urban sombrero and the muffin top (not the too tight pants which makes meat cones). The top of the muffin is the best and Elaine knows, we know it and now, Mr. Lippman knows it.

Mr. Lippman steals Elaine's idea and opens up a shop, Top of the Muffin to You! which starts out not doing too well. See, Mr. Lippman was only baking the tops and not the entire muffin. As Elaine rightfully explains, the entire muffin has to be baked in order for the top to be yums. There has to have been a stump. That sentiment is what had me weary when I found these while out on an excursion.

I need snacks, good snacks, to fend off the low sugar hunger monster and, while these looked a little promising, they were just okay. As with most sugar-free items, the muffin tops were a little dry, then again, the stumps weren't formerly attached so that may have been the reason. The overall taste was subtle despite being chocolate flavor which I actually enjoy. Then again, I am the person who LOVES the dark chocolate miniatures out of the bag. Despite all that though, the Vitatops were full of healthy stuffs and it's what I need right now. Turns out, while my A1C has held steady at 6.4, my vitamin D has taken a nose dive. So, let's add another pill to my Walgreens profile.

FYI, if you intend on trying the Vitatops, be warned that it contains 9g of fiber. We all know what fiber does, right?

This

2011-04-08T07:46:00.001-05:00

Makes.Me.So.Happy.

The entire series needs to come in a cute box set. Today.

More at the link.

FYI, work be crazy. My wallet is paying for it since I'm opting to shop at the nearby Target rather than stay and eat here.

Breakfast

2011-04-05T07:24:00.001-05:00

This are the major players for my Sunday breakfast now. (Bacon, eggs and sausage were off getting prepped.)

Quaker oatmeal pancake mix - they're a bit chunky but it's oatmeal and I'm not a fan of oatmeal but, who can argue with 4g of fiber?

Mrs. Butterworth's sugar-free syrup - When I was a kid, we used to make our mom get us this. She always wanted to get the cheaper syrup but she never caved that is, until I walked in on her pouring cheap syrup into Mrs. Butterworth's glass container. I never did find out how long my mom had been doing this. It broke my heart but, at this age, it makes me chuckle at how devious my mom was. This particular sugar-free (SF) syrup is fantastic and, like many SF products, it tastes sweeter than the original.

Hershey's sugar-free chocolate syrup - This is one of those SF products that is milder than it's sugar-laden cousin. It's still good and a great companion to the oatmeal pancakes.

Tropicana 50 apple juice - Apple juice is my drank. It's absolutely divine when it's super cold. Unfortunately, it has so much sugar, even in its natural form. Imagine my surprise when Tropicana 50 started making APPLE JUICE. The 50 stands for 50 less sugar and calories. Just wonderful as was my blood glucose after breakfast.

Russo's NY Pizzeria

2011-03-31T08:01:00.000-05:00

A few months ago, I noticed that Groupon was selling $20 coupons for $10 at Russo's NY Pizzeria. Since they were on The List (my list of new food places to try in 2011) I had to scoop some up. I managed to purchase 2 and saved them for when it was time to try another pizza joint. Yesterday was that day.

We met up with our good friend, Carlos, there and sampled a variety of items to give us a good indication on what kind of place we were dealing with. The food was actually pretty good. Their mozzarella wrapped in prosciutto was yummy while their flatbread, all coal fired cooked, was genius. Of course, we had to get a pizza because, if a pizza place doesn't know how to make pizza then that's an automatic fail. When the pizza arrived, it was perfectly crispy and full of toppings not unlike the wimpy kind I've seen at other places. I ordered a pasta dish, chicken marsala, because I like pasta. While I found the sauce a little too runny, the noodles were a perfect al dente texture.

The Final Verdict:

Is it Brother's Pizzeria? No, not at all but it makes decent pizza and pasta. It certainly comes closer that the disaster that was Romano's. But, would I go again? Sure especially since I have the other $20 coupon still left to use. Besides, another try at the pizza is needed. And, I hear there is a brunch? Holla.

Carlos probably playing a round of Words with Friends. Cheater.

Chicken marsala = yum.

The Kitchen

2011-03-29T08:02:00.001-05:00

When we moved in early February, our kitchen lost a lot of storage space but gained a wider kitchen. One that now allows us both to be in the kitchen. Yay. But it's that pesky storage space that gave us quite the pickle. Many items, such as my beloved little toaster oven, went to live in our storage unit. What were we to do? We figured that we may as well use the walls for our dilemma and so, we looked to Ikea and their Grundtal series.

The BNC installed these for me one a Sunday afternoon. I put out most of the cookware I tend to favor except for the dutch oven, the braiser and the cast iron. Those got lucky and found some real estate in the cabinets. Having a small kitchen makes you get creative on where to put things such as the microwave. Our solution? On top of the fridge. It's seldom used and, quite honestly, I'm thinking of getting rid of it altogether.

I'm extremely pleased with how it turned out though. It's still a work in progress but the functionality has come out. Some of my dry herbs need to be replenished but the ones that are present are ready to be used.

Even my colorful knives are ready. And, you know what else? The toaster oven is out of storage and in the cabinet, and, like the knives, the cookware, and the dry herbs, ready to be used.

Blah Again

2011-03-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

I have a cold. Another cold. Just wonderful. Even Logan is like, "Dude, shut up. Can't you see my stories are on. While you're up, can I get a treat?"

Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T12:32:00.001-05:00

By now I'm sure you've learned that Dame Elizabeth Tayor is gone. I'm completely saddened about it. This woman was amazing. UH-MAZING. She was beautiful beyond anyone's comprehension and yet she was just as equally, if not more, known for her compassion to HIV/AIDS and those living with the disease. I, like many others, I'm certain of it, enjoyed her films, her perfume and her honest approach to all subjects. She was even the voice of Maggie Simpson even if she uttered the one word, "Daddy" referencing Homer. What a unique woman, the last great movie star. I cried when Gregory Peck died and tonight, I'll go home, watch one of her many movies, the standard retrospective on the news, and shed a tear for a woman I admired from afar.

Welcome to Kitteh Korner

2011-03-23T07:14:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the corner of our home now named Kitteh Korner. The majority of their stuff is here, out of our way as well as any guests. Sure, there is more of their stuff in other parts of our home but all the good stuff is in this corner.

I finally managed to find a nice, inexpensive cat tree for the kids. If they tear it, or just rub their butts on it cause anyone with kids knows all about the butt scooting, then I'm fine with it.

I'm happy to say that they love it. Logan reminds of Chris Farley. They're both fat and yet incredibly agile. He managed to get up there without faceplanting it.

Then Bitty Girl comes along cause she noticed some shit needed to be stirred and that shit was a dangling tail.

Remarkably, Bitty Girl, while an active and crazy thing killer, has been behaving very well. It's the older ones that are acting up. Shitting right outside a litter box with fresh unused litter as well as pissing all over the new mat made from Astro turf. I've been chalking it up to them being 9 years old, senior citizen kittehs. It makes me sad to think of them getting older but it may just be them getting all snotty on me. All in all, I may have to buy a new litter box this afternoon.

Damn kids.

Evil Pancakes

2011-03-21T09:46:00.000-05:00

Since we gave up going to House of Pies for breakfast on Sunday mornings, I've had to check the brain for making breakfast. While out shopping, I found Quaker Oatmeal pancakes and since I'm a label reader, I had to snatch them up after reading the 4g of fiber per serving. Not bad, not bad at all. Mrs. Butterworth's, not pictured, in sugar-free form was perfect as well as the Hersey's sugar-free chocolate syrup, not pictured.

This comal, or griddle, in cast iron form, has been in my family for years. I "stole" it from my mom when I finally moved out years ago. Apparently, my mom received it as a wedding gift. It will be 40 years old in November.

Darth and Stormtrooper helping with the flipping.

That's right, evil is where it's at. I found these are Target for $0.74.

The pancakes came out a little thin but all in all, i'm very happy with the oatmeal pancakes and its sugar-free topping. My apologies for nomming it all up before I took a photo of the final product.

Happy birthday, Mom

2011-03-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

My mom, beautiful, wise, optimistic and strong, turns 57 today. I have sung the praises of the Old Man many times here before so my mom is due up for one.

Let me tell you, she is quite a woman. She taught me many, many things stemming from cooking some of the specialties my Grandma, her mom, taught her, to never playing second fiddle to anyone. I enjoy the Saturdays I spend driving her around as she runs her errands, visits friends, looks at every dang thing at Ikea, and, telling me every detail of her week. Sure, it's tiring but, it's my mom. She sacrificed so much for her family and it's a small price to pay in my effort to pay her back. Ah, moms and their soothing touch, the one thing that makes it all better.

Thanks Dad

2011-03-17T06:00:00.002-05:00

I bought a car this past weekend and, with a bit of a broken heart, I had to return it on the advice of the Old Man. I'm almost certain now that a catastrophe was looming underneath the hood and, luckily, it was averted thanks to him. I've been thinking about him since, and how he views me. Does he still see me as a child, like the one pictured above where I was trying to pose just like him, or does he see me as the 34 year-old that I am? I'm okay with the former and I get it. I'm his daughter, his only daughter, and I asked for advice and he gave it to me straight. I've asked for help perhaps a handful of times, as a last resort because my thinking was, and always has been, I'm an adult, I can handle this. I don't need your help. But, I get it now wherein I never did before. They want to help. They want you to be safe and happy. They won't be mad or annoyed that you bothered them. So, here I am, ready to be treated as a kid, so to speak, by my dad, the man who loves me like no other man will. Thanks, dad, for always being there for me. I'm sorry that I'm a stubborn mule. I got it from mom so go yell at her. $20 on mom. ;)

The Return of PB & J

2011-03-16T07:33:00.000-05:00

A while ago, after much testing that yielded crazy high readings on my meter, I realized I had to give up my beloved PB&J. It hurt. It hurt more than the cereal. PB&J is the perfect morning breakfast. Easy to make in the morning, only dirtying up a butter knife, wrap it up and voila, done. And, since we're always honest here, I'm not a big fan of breakfast. Sure, I like eggs and bacon and waffles and bagels but lunch and dinner is where it's at.

I was pretty gloomy after I made the dreadful decision of saying good bye. Bad breakfasts happened, usually ones that had me in hunger panic mode when lunchtime finally rolled around. But then, the sky opened because I found this.

And then this.

Which made this.

And then all was right with the world.

Don't forget the sugar-free iced coffee from McDonald's, the only thing I can stomach from there.

The jelly, while more runny than the sugar-laced one, is surprisingly decent. A serving of the jelly, about 2 tablespoons, contains 5g of carbs and the peanut butter contains about 6g of carbs. The medium sugar-free iced coffee is about 8g of carbs. So far, my blood glucose has taken to the change very well and that, in turn, makes me happy. Very happy. Time to eat!

Smashburger

2011-03-15T07:03:00.000-05:00

What can I say? The burger is still amazing. The fries, known as Smashfries that have rosemary and sea salt seasoning, were a little eh, but it's really all about the burger. Isn't it always about the burger? Though I recently went, without the BNC, the burger has remained the same; succulent, juicy, orgasmicy, and overall yummy.

Troop loves it. It's a small price to pay for me having lost his gun.

Lent

2011-03-11T08:06:00.000-06:00

After last year's, too high potassium readings from some blood work done on Good Friday, I'm not participating in the No-Meat Fridays thing. Also, I'm not giving up a certain food, etc. Instead, I will focus on my baseball catching skills, still under construction, mind you, as well as my awesome kite flying skills. Skills, I gots 'em, yo. In other words, I will hit up the park as much I can, a park only 3 blocks from my home. The park where I flew kites when I was a wee little one.

The only thing the BNC and I are giving up is going to our beloved House of Pies for our Sunday breakfast. Instead we will save that money to either give to charity or purchase something for us. It will be a little hard since they know us there but it's Lent. However, you know what will be hard? Cooking. The BNC will be fasting while I won't so what to make for dinner will be a little tricky. I will try to fast when I can but I have a date with the Lab soon with a visit to the endo 2 weeks after. I'm afraid that what happened last year will happen again if I do abstain for the whole meat thing on Fridays, including the 3 days before Easter, the toughest time of all. So, I'm prepared to make some potato patties, eggplant lasagna, lentils with shallots, green beans with tomatoes and that stuff the BNC loves while I sneak in some protein on the side at dinner time.

By and by, I made chicken fried chicken yesterday because I hit a roadblock on what to make with chicken breasts. I had Panko but no egg and had to settle for whole wheat flour. It tasted good but it was still a fail.

Yup, the flour, without the egg as a binder, didn't really stay on. A yummy failure nonetheless.

Albondigas

2011-03-09T07:30:00.001-06:00

The weather continues to be erratic here. Cold and windy one day, and then, today, muggy and foggy with the promise of falling temperatures (again) this afternoon. Monday evening, with the cold still hanging in the air, I decided to make some albondigas, meatball soup, to warm our bellies and our toes.

I like to keep my meatballs simple. Back in the day, I would put a few pinches of rice, maybe some cut up potatoes, into the mixture but simple really is best. Salt, pepper and 1 egg, maybe some bread crumbs if they're on hand. After a little mixing, not too much, I form small little meatballs and let them hang out while I warm up my dutchie on the left hand side. A little olive oil and, in small batches, sear them a bit. (I don't thoroughly cook them.) Also, they aren't perfectly round and really, who cares?

You have to make these in batches otherwise they will fall apart during the flipping process as well as being boiled rather than getting a nice brown color. No bueno.

After they're all done, pour in some diced shallots until slightly translucent. A little tomato paste and chicken/beef broth, or water, to remove all the bottom Klingons. Bring to a boil and, if you didn't use broth, like me, put in a couple of tablespoons of your Knorr, bouillon base, a Mexican staple. A little time and let it boil for a minute before adding your noodles. I have ceased using rice because I still get called out on the childhood incident when I poured more than a couple of cups of rice and made porridge with meatballs. Thanks, mom. Anyhow, noodles is best.

I like Oaxaca cheese so a few little cubes go in along with a little lemon. Throw in some toasted up tortillas to help scoop up some of this deliciousness as Roseanne, Season 1 on Netflix plays and you're good to go.

Bitty Girl, World Watcher

2011-03-07T07:19:00.001-06:00

I'm sure the slogan is the same in every city. "If you don't like the weather, give it a minute and it will change." It certainly rings true here in Houston. It's been a little warm, extremely foggy and muggy; A nasty combination. Saturday morning was a typical warm, sticky morning. I was ready to tackle Ikea with some shorts and a t-shirt. Then bam. I had to put on some jeans and a long-sleeved tee when I opened the front door and got a cold handed slap in the face. Go figure. Regardless, the day was beautiful. I opened up all of the windows and let the cold air run through. And you know how much Bitty Girl loves opened windows. She spent a good chunk of the afternoon sitting and watching.

She's easy to please.

Neighborhood Watch, Part 3

2011-03-04T07:03:00.000-06:00

By the looks of it, it may not be much of a view for her, but there are a lot of squirrels and birds running up and down those trees and roof. She's good. She misses Ms. Gustafson's little girl and her many uncles though.

1979

2011-03-02T07:50:00.000-06:00

According to the back of these photos, and Billy Corgan, the year was 1979. The wood paneling should give it away. It's the coat that really cements it though.

I remember this photo being taken. I also remember this house. Absolutely some of the best times there. B would be born later that year, in November.

I'm so hood.

Tummy teaser.

My parents are giving me all of the family photos. There's so many but it's awesome to look back and remember. It's going to be quite a chore to scan them. But, after I do, I am going to display them on one of the two streaming photo albums I have.

Papa Geno's

2011-03-01T07:22:00.001-06:00

Papa Geno's was chosen for dinner last night after having to run some unexpected errands that would have left me making our dinner too late. It was a good choice.

Papa Geno's is a philly cheesesteak joint that is supposed to be a Philadelphia transplant. I say supposed because I don't know if they are or aren't. All I know is that in Philly they use Cheez Whiz on their cheesesteaks and this place is doing it. I'm not down with that kind of cheese. Let me make a side note comment for a moment. My momma didn't really feed us junk food. I guess you could say that she was way ahead of the curve. For example, as a 34-year old, I have never had a Happy Meal. My mom doesn't like it when people feed their kids nothing but sugar or fatty stuff. Sure, we went to Pizza Hut a lot but I guess we went to a) feed our Italian ancestry and b) my mom doesn't know how to make pizzas. She always preferred to make our meals no matter how long it took. Cheez Whiz was one of those items she didn't feed us. So, rather than get the original Papa Geno's cheesesteak, I got a regular one with white melty cheese (the name escapes me right now). Dudes, it was good. The meat was wonderfully cooked and the cheese was awesomely melted and clinging to the meat and bread for dear life. I didn't go, "ZOMG, this is SOOO good!" when I bit into it because it was just good. It was good use of bread, meat and cheese and it came together great but it was nothing spectacular. However, I would go again. Maybe even try the other items on the menu. The BNC on the other hand, whose childhood meals consisted of coming out of a box, and with a toy, tried the original with the Cheez Whiz. He liked it.

I know I should be taking photos of the food but oy, I don't want to be that person, sitting at the table, whipping out her camera, etc. I'm sure they wouldn't mind but, what if they do? Sometimes I can pull it off but then I am forced to share a crappy photo of something I can't even make out.

In closing, Ralph Macchio is going to be on Dancing with the Stars. This may finally be the reason I need to watch it.

Texas Cafeteria

2011-02-28T07:32:00.003-06:00

Texas Cafeteria has been around for quite some time. It's located across the street from the Fiesta, a regional grocery store, that my family frequented many, many times so naturally, I saw this place a lot. (Fiesta features many latin foods hence the visits.) My curiosity has always been piqued but finally, after decades, we went in to check it off The List and, unfortunately, I was disappointed. The food was pretty standard though filling but it was nothing fancy. Then again, we had the basic eggs, bacon, hashbrowns and pancakes deal. It's pretty hard to fuck that up but, at the same time, I want omg yums and alas, dudes, it was just ok. I still prefer my House of Pies usual of eggs, bacon, bagel and waffle.

One of the problems I had with Texas Cafeteria was the way things were being run. You order your food at the counter, because breakfast isn't served caferteria style, and you receive your ticket stub. After your meal is prepared, they yell out your number and bring it to you. Any extras you want, syrup, ketchup, Splenda, you must get on your own. After you are done, you go back to the counter, swerving in and around tables, to pay. It's an archaic and offputting method and I don't like it. Let me pay as I order or have a station near the exit door so I can pay there. The yelling is offputting as well. But, having numerous photos of wildlife, such as bears, fish, deer and pigs, is more offensive than the gruff man yelling out ticket stub numbers because he thinks the waitress isn't loud enough. Yes, you read that right. DEAD ANIMALS. NEXT TO MY BOOTH. I'm no vegetarian and I'm all for killing animals for food, etc. (cause I'm a Mexican) but holy shit, I don't want to eat some hashbrowns with a photo of a dead bear at my table.

I may go back to try the lunch items but that is about it. Disappointing but at least we finally figured out the mystery of Texas Cafeteria.

Then yesterday, I went to the park and flew my Spider-Man kite. Just like old times.

I also learned how to catch but not before I took one in the arm. Holla!

Decisions

2011-02-25T07:19:00.003-06:00

I have to find a new vehicle before May is over. When the lease on the BNC's vehicle (a Toyota Tundra) ran out in August, we opted to not purchase it. I chose to give my huge-ass Toyota Sequoia to the BNC and asked my dad if he would let me drive one of his cars for a while until I decided what I wanted. The car he lent me is a Toyota Avalon. It's waaaay smaller than the Sequoia and it was quite an adjustment to drive it. And then, when I had to drive the Sequoia a few times, whoa Nelly, I learned I lost my flare for driving it as well as parking it. For shame. So now, my old man wants to sell his Toyota Tacoma and keep the Toyota Avalon as his primary mode of travel. It would make more sense to keep the Tacoma since it's a pick-up and he's a mechanic but you can feel every gust of wind, every pebble when you drive it. I used to have a Tacoma so I know. With the Avalon you get a smooth ride, quick turns and comfort. I don't blame him for wanting the Avalon. Besides, his choice. So, my car search has begun. I used to have a 4-Runner and loved it but traded it in for the Sequoia so naturally, I wanted to get another 4-Runner. I narrowed the search and spoke to my bank about financing it. Then, the Old Man, bringing along his Consumer Report Book, suggested I get a Toyota FJ Cruiser. Shit. Years ago I thought about it but wasn't too impressed with it. I figured, "I'm not 20 and there aren't any mountains in Houston so WTF?" But now, I've had to put it in the Maybe Column. My search just got harder. That's what she said.

The 4-Runner, a beautiful and reliable car. I love it.

But then an FJ Cruiser shows up and now you got Brandon/Dylan problems.

Let's throw in a Toyota Camry to symbolize the Mega Burger from the Peach Pit that I always wanted to try.

I'm an amazing driver, TOOT, TOOT, so I know I'll rock out in any of these cars. For example, a trailer blew a tire this morning on the freeway, right in front of me, and I kept my cool and didn't hit him. Scared me the fuck out but I didn't contribute to morning traffic so yay. But, I need to make a choice.

Dilemmas.

BTW, Toyota ain't paying me shit to write this. I just love them. My parent's home can look like a Toyota dealership when we all gather there since my mom has a Rav-4. B drives a Dodge Magnum though. Go fig.

Funk

2011-02-24T09:33:00.001-06:00

I'm in a funk in every way possible. My cooking is uninspired and while it tastes good, I find it boring. Roasted chicken with mashed potatoes, while moist, crunchy and fluffy, was just what it was, roasted chicken with mashed potatoes. (It doesn't help that even the photo looks boring.)

Ths pork chops, roasted new potatoes and some couscous was ok. A few minutes after starting the sear on my chops, I remembered why I don't do it as often. It's essentially a fried chop, one that is not only unhealthy but also a stinky nuisance. Granted, pork chops smell yummy but I really hate how the smell permeates everything. Also, I don't like waking up at 2a and getting hungry because my bedsheets, once full of that awesome Downey scent, smell like pork chops. Which, brings me to the other areas of my current state of funkdom. I am not sleeping very well. I toss and toss, wake up at all hours and have odd dreams. I ceased taking Lunesta about a month ago because, I don't know, a strong dependency was about to occur and that would have been no bueno despite my strong, hard love for prescription drugs. I'm also having some aches and pains that make me feel closer to 40 than I am willing to admit to right now. Fuck, 40. That's a milestone. A really big adult milestone. If (cause I can get really morbid) and when I hit 40, will I have to retire my Harry Potter calendars? Remove my Little Mermaid pillowcase? Will my love for Harry still be around at 40 or will a new boy wizard slither (not Slytherin, not Slytherin) his/her way into my inner 12-year old? Dilemmas.

Back to my funk, shit, it's really bothering me. Maybe it's the move and still trying to find my groove there, trying to make our furniture work, getting the kitchen organized in a way that is most efficient for me, researching and researching cat trees, wall shelves, a TV stand and now a MFing car. Maybe it's the stupid weather. I'm sorry Snow/Icepocalypse. Come back, even if for a day. This damn, what I have deemed as Zombie Weather, which involves morning fog, lots of humidity and overcast skies, sucks big, hairy balls. For realsies.

I'd much prefer George Clinton than this. Blah.

The List

2011-02-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

Being on vacation is the perfect time to shop and eat out while the rest of the world works. Thank goodness for us, we have The List.

One of the places we tried was Gatlin's BBQ. I had previously read many great reviews from the Houston Press and was excited about finding a great BBQ place after my original go-to place started to dwindle in quality. Dudes, Gatlin's was amazing. We tried the juicy and smokey brisket, the yummy pulled pork and while the homemade sausage wasn't my favorite (purely a textural issue) it was still an amazing feat. The BNC was impressed by all of our meats. Our sides included the dirty rice, which was spicy and filling and could have been a meal all on its own while the macaroni and cheese was nothing spectacular with its overcooked macaroni noodle. The potato salad, enjoyed by the BNC so according to him, was ok. Overall, it's a winner and we look forward to sampling the much raved about ribs, the rest of the meats and, most importantly, the sandwiches. Mmmm, mmmm!

When I was making The List, I left some open slots in case we managed to stumble upon a place that was worthy of including to The List. I'm glad I did because we found Jonathan's The Rub. After working hard in our friend's yard, as mentioned in my previous post, it was an absolutely amazing reward. Sure, it was too much and it was quite a heavy meal for it being lunch but it was everything you shouldn't be eating every day. Just look at it.

Chicken fried chicken with Jonathan's fries topped with bacon-infused gravy and a side of mashed potatoes. The chicken was crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside as it should be. The fries? Yum. The gravy? Yums! Mashed potatoes? Whoa, very rich and heavy but good nevertheless. I completely intend on going back to Jonathan's but this time I am splitting the entree with the BNC. I caught sight of other entrees leaving the chef's station and the portions were huge. Personally, I can't see myself eating all of that food. I'll gladly split it though. Despite the big portions, Jonathan's The Rub still serves good food. I'm looking forward to trying out other items on the menu and perhaps, making it a frequent haunt.

Emails

2011-02-22T09:57:00.000-06:00

I'm supposed to be sifting through emails, saving, printing, filing, catching up, etc. but eh, if those emails waited this long, they can wait a little longer. I've been on vacation since Friday, February 11. Yay for me. However, it wasn't all rainbows and cupcakes. We were in the midst of moving and, while it only took 2 days to move all of our stuff over, unpacking and organizing and settling in while battling a nasty cold is not the ideal vacation. But, at least I wasn't at work, not going to the doctor and dying a slow death. Shit got done. We're settled and the cats have settled in nicely. Proof, check it.

A few scenes from my time away in a completely non-cohesive manner.

Helping a friend with his yard work. Talk about embracing the Mexican roots. I didn't know I had it in me. I'm going to print up some business cards soon.

My reward for the yard work was chicken fried chicken topped with fries and bacon infused gravy with a side of decadent mashed potatoes. I couldn't finish the whole thing, which brings me to a small side note. Dude, can we start using smaller portions? This was a ridiculous amount of food and, while it was good, (definitely not something I would eat on a regular basis) wowza. And, we're back.

Troop, sans gun, at House of Pies.

We moved back into the hood both the BNC and I grew up in. We're extremely happy about our decision and are relishing in visiting the park 3 blocks away. Since I was denied being a part of the little league, I am living my dream of learning how to properly catch a ball. Verdict? I suck at it. My index finger and part of my palm are bruised but it's not stopping me. Even B has offered to help me since he's a softball fanatic. (That is downtown Houston in the background.)

It was incredibly windy and cloudy Sunday evening when these shots were taken. There is a bit of a hill in the background where we used to fly our kites as kids. I can't wait to do it again.

Meat lasagna with Darth. Yea.

Ugh, 71 emails still inbox. Wish me luck.

2 Years

2011-02-11T08:13:00.001-06:00

I haz a cold.

2011-02-07T09:33:00.000-06:00

It all started yesterday, the tightness in my throat, the congestion, the headache, the overall yuckiness; a cold has found its home. As with any cold, it's not the right time to get sick as I have a busy week at work and at home. Postings of the cats, the lack of good pictures of the food I eat as well as my mundane musings on 80s movies and music will be scarce.

For now, enjoy this photo of Lily, waiting for a treat, her just reward for watching over my parent's home against a raccoon attack. Or zombies. Whichever comes first.

FYI, the Black Eyed Peas suck. What, The Black Keys weren't good enough for you, Super Bowl?

Happy birthday, Dad.

2011-02-01T08:23:00.000-06:00

Thug life.

Yesterday my Old Man turned 64. It makes me happy and sad at the same time. My dad is in great shape and takes very good care of himself. I'm happy he's ok. I'm happy he is here with us. Yet, I am sad for the obvious reason; my dad is 64 now. Next year he will retire and I am trying to learn as much as I can from him. I want to spoil him as much as I am able to and I want to tell him that he has always and will continue to be loved immensely by B and I. Truly, we have the best dad.

Because I Can

2011-02-01T08:16:00.001-06:00

That's right, I totally purchased these from Williams-Sonoma. Why? For evil cooking. Holla.

They're flexible spatulas, able to withstand temperatures up to 480º. Cooking in hell? No problem.

Evil meeting her evil cooking utensils. Empire omelette, anyone?

Poor Troop, trying to take an Onda photo with his Empire Family only to be photobombed by Bitty Girl.

Ah, that's better except for that shadow. Nice. I'm a huge Star Wars fan and, for a while in my 20s, I was actively searching and collecting with the BNC. We have a tiny collection that includes our childhood toys that weren't buried after they were destroyed in combat. I'm looking forward to using these because I can. Ooooo, I wonder if the internet can find me a Death Star cookie jar! BRB

Found it!

Benihana

2011-01-31T07:55:00.000-06:00

I have been to other hibachi joints before but not the nationally known Benihana's. As with all others on The List, I wanted to find out for myself what the whole hoopla was about. Turns out, not much. The food was okay, it wasn't something to ah over and over at. The company was much, much better. I believe it's because of the company that I'm being so easy on them. Would I go again? Maybe but it would depend on the company.

Side note, I got a lot of flack for not liking Romano's Pizza. All I can say is, I've eaten a lot of pizza in my lifetime, and I know what I like and what I don't like. Romano's I don't like, Brother's Pizza I adore.

All About Pets

2011-01-28T06:49:00.000-06:00

Bitty Girl has ALWAYS been crazy. I see people with their kittehs, all snuggly, letting their humans carry them, etc., Bitty Girl never did that.

Why can't you be normal?

You're still cute, though.

Lily, my first cat, 9 years ago. She is a total bitch and it's that sole reason why she lives with my mom. She refused to live with Apolo and Logan, her brothers from another litter, and even lunged at Apolo once. Bitch. But, I love her.

"You think I look bad? Shit, you should see them."

This is what happens when you're a bitch and you take on the racoons, you wear the Cone of Shame.

My Lily, plant killer and guard dog.

Logan is all sorts of needy and whiny, but remarkably, he's the alpha male. He has no balls so I don't get it. I just notice that he calls the shots and he gives looks to the others and they back away. Odd.

Because I can.

One of these days, I am going to buy this and find out, once and for all, what the fuck they do all day. Maybe I'll just get shots of the couch.

Boochie, Apolo and Logan many years ago. Sigh.

Watching me eat dinner, praying that a crumb fell or I had mercy on those eyes. I did. I'm a sucker.

It wasn't always cats. I had a dog once, for about a month.

His name was Atticus and he was magical. Then, he grew a bit bigger than the cats and started playing a bit too rough with them. They didn't like it so they started hiding. They were never hiders so, I made the choice of giving him away. The cats won, they were here first. He was a good dog, other than the aforementioned, and was crate-trained.

They know me well at the vet's.

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...

2011-01-27T11:42:00.002-06:00

The 70s were a grand time, huh? Well, from what I remember it was. The 80s were much cooler though.

Except some, if not most, of the clothes. Those, not so much. How tragic was my dad's shirt? His mullet? My yellow shirt and red pants combo? The automobiles?

Paneling on the walls was awesome once. Wearing a dress, cause your mom wanted you to, was not.

I need to steal my mom's photo albums and scan all of those photos. Hopefully, in a few weeks, when time gives me some, I will do just that.

Another Cat?

2011-01-25T07:21:00.000-06:00

I try to furminate the cats at least once a month. They aren't long-hairs but they still need a good brushing. Thank goodness they LOVE it especially the fat one in the middle, Apolo. He will stay still and even back his stinky butt up towards me for a furminating. And, after the grooming, a nice big ass ball of fur is left over. It kind of looks like a Gremlin after you poured some water on poor Gizmo.

Romano's Pizza, Etc.

2011-01-24T08:20:00.015-06:00

Friday night we finally decided to start tackling The List. There are 24 places listed and, if we average 2 a month, we'll be good for the year (not including any last minute additions).

I was in the mood for pizza, and since we had a couple of errands to run, we opted for Romano's, which was in the general area. B worked here over 10 years ago, after he quit working at the movie theater next door where the BNC and I saw many movies for free. Romano's is also the place where B met his current girlfriend, a lovely girl that is soooo totally in. I had only eaten at this place once before and never bothered to return so this year, since it's the Year of Try It, it was placed on The List. Dudes, I really, really, really wanted to love this place. It would have made me happy to find a pizza place that was closer and thus more easily accessible than my beloved Brother's. However, it's not going to happen. We ordered a regular pepperoni pizza because, if they can't make a basic then why bother. It was so bland that the first words out of our mouths were, "It ain't Brother's." I was so disappointed. The pizza was just a small notch above pizza from the mall. But, my disappointment doesn't go far since, afterall, this is the whole point of this; to try (and retry) new places. The pizza may have failed but our mission hasn't.

There are a couple of more pizza places on The List but, after talking to B about them, I have learned that Pink's Pizza is bad. I'll most likely end up going anyhow for researching sake because it's a permanent notecard. It's the law and I am no lawbreaker.

Galtin's BBQ, which recently got a great review in the Houston Press, will be the next place to tackle. Wish us luck.

In other food news, Troop, Chapa and I went to Wings-n-More Sunday afternoon as a precursor to the NFC and AFC Championship games. As usual, a great time was had.

That is, until I lost Troop's gun at the BNC's show Sunday night. Yea, I suck. Troop gonna have to learn MMA.

Rambling

2011-01-20T10:17:00.000-06:00

Troop and I

2011-01-17T08:06:00.000-06:00

Having Spider-Man has been pretty awesome BUT, it's no fun to play with him while he's on his invisible motorcycle. So, I did what any normal person would do, I bought a toy; A Storm Trooper whom I call, Troop.

I was really looking for Han, Chewy or Darth, but they were gone. I'm not too fond of Luke and Leia so no. Troop though, being part of the Empire and pure evil, was the logical choice. (I root for the underdog, ok?) And now, our adventures begin. First up, Smashburger.

Troop and I, along with Chapa, headed out to Smashburger, a location on The List to find out for ourselves whether it was still the best burger I ever ate. The burger was juicy, seasoned very well, cooked to perfection (medium) and oh man, there aren't enough words to describe how awesome it was. For realsies, I cannot wait to go back and eat another one. The fries went down to ok after being ranked yum a few years ago. But, who cares when you have that burger, the one I forgot to take a picture of because it was delicious.

You so silly, Troop. This isn't Return of the Jedi.

Sundays typically are House of Pies days for us, and Troop was happy to join in. So far, we're having a good time and no waitstaff have given me the you crazy eye from playing with Troop as we wait for our food.

Bitty Girl, on the other hand, isn't too frazzled by another evil entity in house. Not while it's time to clean the fur, that is. Will they join forces or will a war break out? Stay tuned.

Does whatever a spider can.

2011-01-14T13:43:00.000-06:00

Today, in The New Adventures of Spider-Man, watch as he rides his imaginary motorcycle to his second job, working as an assistant to the assistant of the assistant. Will the copy machine jam? Will he make the necessary edits to his report before EOB? Will he meet his deadline? And if so, will he have to defeat it using his web and Spidey Senses atop a cable car while trying to save the children trapped inside?! Stay tuned next week as we answer these questions and more on The New Adventures of Spider-man!

My Dad

2011-01-14T06:38:00.002-06:00

I truly, absolutely, without a shred of doubt, lucked out the day they were handing out dads. He set the bar and he set it high. That saying about how daughters marry men like their fathers has a whole lot of truth to it. I wasn't out searching for an asshole who beat his kids, beat his wife, drank, smoked, cursed, etc. because my dad wasn't that.

The photo above is of my dad, circa 1970, which would make him 23. It's an old Polaroid, slightly battered but highly treasured and constantly scrutinized by me. I know my dad's history, with all its ugliness, and marvel at the handsome man posing for the camera who made it against all odds. I couldn't have asked for a better dad. He's always been supportive, loving, funny, kind, a real character, forgiving, knowledgeable and, most importantly, compassionate. He treated me like a daughter and a son. We spent many weekends changing the oil on a car, fixing a leaky faucet, watching football, grilling hamburgers, enjoying documentaries and, most importantly, how to never depend on anyone or let myself be treated badly by anyone. I learned so much from my dad and I try, every day, to be at least a 1/4 of what he is. If I can do that then I know I can sing Ice Cube's It Was a Good Day.

For The Love of Harry...

2011-01-12T10:08:00.000-06:00

My MIL made me a Gryffindor scarf last year and, to date, it's been the best gift she has ever given me. It has kept me warm on days such as today, when it hits 20º and Houston is freaking out. And yea, that's a doodle of me, with my hair up, bangs (!!) and my awesome purple glasses that apparently match my purse, my scarf and the sweater I'm wearing. Oh, and the car I'm driving at the moment. Nice.

Snack Time

2011-01-11T07:27:00.000-06:00

Nothing will ever come close to milk and cookie time in kindergarten; THAT will always be the bestest snack time ever. However, Nature Valley's Nut Clusters is the bomb! They're perfect when it's around 2p and the Ghost of Robert Goulet shows up.

They hold me over until dinner time and aren't too harsh on my blood glucose. By and by, I had a physical done while I was on vacation (cause getting blood taken is my ideal vacation destination). The results came back and all they could find was low vitamin D but no STDs. Ha! I should mention that I didn't go in with that intention but my doctor offered and, because I love to do things for shits and giggles, I said ok. I would have had some words with the BNC if anything came back. :)

Cliff's Notes

2011-01-07T07:26:00.003-06:00

Here is more info on the places on my list.

100% Taquito

It's a taco place and apparently it's one 100% of the time. That means it's all the time. C'mon, man, you can't go wrong with that.

Benihana

A hibachi joint that I am very much looking forward to.

Chacho's

It's a Mexican restaurant that is mostly known for their yummy tacos and you know how much I love tacos.

Chiloso's Taco House

I'm picking up on a trend right now, are you?

Feast

I've tried several times in the past to hit this place up but have always had a few roadblocks stop me from proceeding. Rest assured that I will come here and enjoy the British food since rumor has it that it may close down since no one is going. It has consistently been on the Best of Houston lists so it's a priority.

Gatlin's BBQ

Yelp has this BBQ place listed with 5 stars (from 17 reviews) and well, we're in Texas so BBQ places have to be on The List.

Genghis Grill

You design the food and someone else cooks it for you? Wait, what? Ok. It's a chain though but still, it's on.

Gorditas Aquascalientes

Gorditas! I love me a good gordita. A gordita is just some masa shaped into a semi-thin disc, imagine a thick, slightly smaller corn tortilla, that is either fried in oil or cooked on cast iron. Once cooked, an opening can be sliced and beans and cheese stuffed inside (my favorite filling). Mmm... Aparently this place makes them that doesn't involve me whining to my mom, or grandma, about making me some because theirs is ALWAYS better.

Gourmet India

I haven't been here in a while and I miss it. I miss the yummy Indian food with its naan and paneer and basmati rice. Hopefully the service is still good.

Hugo's

I have heard many great things about Hugo's and its Mexican menu, mostly how it's incredibly traditional and worth it . I've also heard glowing things about its brunch buffet. This will require me wrangling up my posse of hungry Mexicans who want to do brunch like the folks over at How I Met Your Mother.

Jus' Mac

Just macaroni and cheese? Shit, where do I sign up, son?

Mai's

Mai's Vietnamese Restaurant has been closed for a while but it's on the list because it is scheduled to reopen soon and rather than wait for another fire to take it down again, and perhaps run the risk of the owners opting to not reopen, I must go and visit this Houston nightlife staple.

Miyako

I had my Bachelorette Dinner here, a little over 6 years ago, and never went back. The food wasn't bad but I just never got around to going back and really tasting and enjoying the food without holding up crotchless panties in the air for all my girls to see. Well, 2011 is here and so is the reason for The List.

Mongolian Hot Pot

You get to assemble your own food?! In a hot pot?! Like soup?! Sweet. These guys and Genghis Grill are on to something.

Pizzitola's BBQ

Another BBQ place but I have read so many reviews, including one from a renowned Houston food critic, driven by so many times, that to not visit would be a fail of my list.

Pink's Pizza

Finally, a pizza place on The List. This place now occupies where a Pizza Hut used to sit so it's nice to see those ovens put to use. I grew up in this neighborhood, my old high school is just a few blocks over, so I am hoping it doesn't suck because you know how much I love pizza.

Rainbow Lodge

Typically known for its seafood, something I am not too fond of unless it's Lent and I have to, you know, for soul saving purposes, but Rainbow Lodge is known for doing seafood very well and I'll give anything a whirl, or two. Besides, there are other items on the menu and if it's not Lent Season, then I may sample those.

Romano's Pizza

Oh, Romano's Flying Pizza is the right name. You would think I would have remembered this since B worked here many, many, many moons ago. As a matter of fact, he met his girlfriend here. I haven't returned since he made me pick up his last paycheck for him about 10 years ago, (still waiting for my Best Sister trophy) but I will triumphantly return, without Sister Duties, and scarf it down.

Russo's NY Pizzeria

Russo's is a pizza chain but one that does its pizza and marinara very well. It's been a while and I am eager to try them once more.

Smashburger

Ah, Smashburger, another one that I have neglected for far too long. The burger still stands as the best I have ever had but I'm scared, Monkey Shines terrified, that it may have dropped as Title Holder. A visit will help to decide if its cuisine still reigns supreme.

Taconazo

Many of my peeps tell me that this place has the best tacos in the city and that is saying a lot especially when it's located in a predominately Mexican neighborhood. Sooooooo....

Taco Tote

Most Sundays, the BNC and I wake up, wipe the eye crispies from our eyes, and head out to House of Pies where they know us as Charlie 2, the BNC's real name and how many people are in our party. Taco Tote is next door and this past Sunday, I admit, it smelled heavenly. I have resisted visiting this place merely for spite. About a year and a half ago, I lent my BFF my vehicle, for Mexican wedding purposes, and she lent me her mom's. (I have a Sequoia, do the math.) As I was pulling out of my parking spot at HOP, Mr. and Mrs. Douche started to pull out of Taco Tote. I honked and honked because obviously they were stupid and didn't notice me and BAM, they hit my BFF's mom's car. They were so douchey about it, waiting for HPD to show up and refusing to exchange info with us much less talk to us. Their request went unanswered until the BNC called them himself where they immediately showed up. (I should mention that the BNC's dad is a retired HPD veteran of 35 years. Yea.) Anyhow, our insurances ruled in my favor so take that, Douches. Back to Taco Tote, I know it wasn't their fault but, the smell on Sunday was enough for me to put them on The List. It better be good.

Texas Cafeteria

Much like my beloved Barbecue Inn, I've driven by this place so many times over the years and never once walked in. Wait no more because it's about to get stuffed in my belly. It seems to be your basic American diner food but it must be doing something right for it to have remained in the same spot, much like the aforementioned, as it watch me grow up from afar. Word.

Zelko Bistro

Cap'n Crunch crusted chicken? For realsies? Shit, it's on. This place is new to the area and it has opened to much fanfare and good word of mouth, the best kind of advertisement. I have dreamt of this place and that chicken, as has the old ball-n-chain, and to say that we aren't eager would make us liars.

And that's The List. I'm sure some will be added as the year progresses but it won't be done without want. Many are central to where we live in Houston, with Pink's Pizza, Zelko Bistro being in The Heights, the neighborhood where both the BNC and I grew up, went to school, still have our parents living in, and hope to ultimately live out our golden years in. Trust me when I say that no place in Houston compares to The Heights area. It's the oldest part of the city and suddenly, one of the most expensive to move into. But, boy, it does have delicious food, places that have withstood the test of time. I'm looking forward to 2011 like I have never done with any other year. It's full of such uncertainty but promise, if that makes any sense. It's going to be a good year and I am going to sop it all up with a biscuit. Yum.

And, because I have it on the brain..

"Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, but thy eternal summer shall not fade." Phat! Did you write that?
Duh, it's, like, a famous quote.
From where?
Cliff's Notes.

I'm Ready

2011-01-06T06:58:00.000-06:00

Ha! And, I left blanks at the bottom for those last minute, we're-dumb-and-didn't-think-of-it-last-minute add-ins.

The List

2011-01-05T09:15:00.000-06:00

The BNC and I have been working on The List since before NY and I think we finally have it completed. Towards the end of the year, we both started visiting places that had either popped up in the neighborhood, driven by or just received glowing reviews from friends. Oh, and coupons. So, we decided to make a list about places we would like to try and then it took off from there. It was then decided that it would be our NY resolution. We don't really eat fast food, except for the occasional Wendy's or Subway outing, but when we do, we want to make it count.

I can't tell you how excited I am about trying these places out. Very few, perhaps 7, are chains and while I'm not a big fan of giving money to big chains, I'll give props to chains that do food well. For example, Smashburger, a place we've visited before, about 2 years ago, still has the best burger I have ever had the pleasure of making When Harry Met Sally noises to and yet, it's a chain. It's yummy. It's on The List simply because it's been a while since I've been there and, well, I have yet to find a burger that still has me talking about it well after. Besides, I'm curious to see if it's still just as good. I hope it is or my search for a good burger will resume once again. I've also started making notes in my yearly planner about all the times I eat out and where.

Now, what place will be the lucky one to go first?

PS....my apologies for the bad handwriting yet again. And, the horribly made stars next to the name are places I've stuffed my face at before. :)

2011

2011-01-04T10:11:00.000-06:00

In keeping with tradition, I made a New Year's Resolution but that's as far as traditional as it gets. Rather than make false promises, with good intentions, about hitting the gym more often, stop making up my own commentary during House Hunters, etc., I made a list of restaurants I would like to try, or just revisit, in the Houston area. It's growing ever so slightly since its inception but I am looking forward to tackling it as soon as time permits. January is a rough month filled with birthdays, working weekends and throwing a Chuck-E-Cheese party for Logan and Apolo (they're turning 9) but we may squeeze a new place before the month is over.

I am incredibly excited about what 2011 may bring us. We have so many things on the agenda, not just with yummy places to eat but things to do and futures to set.

As for The List, I am making cards to carry in our wallets, with enough space for last minute add-ins, and will preview them as soon as time permits (again).

May your 2011 kick some ass.

BRB

2010-12-23T12:50:00.000-06:00

And just like that the holidays sneaked up on me. It's the busy season at work, then again, when you work in an industry that is 24/7, it seems it's ALWAYS the busy season. Anyhow, I am not done with my shopping but I figure I'm ok since I don't have to see any of these people until after Christmas so I have a little time.

I'll be traveling to Tiny Town, Texas tomorrow and I just wanted to wish all the anonymous people reading this right now a very Merry Christmas and the happiest of a New Year.

Mother Ship

2010-12-15T07:49:00.000-06:00

When I was a kid, and given that we weren't particularly close to my Grandpa, I never knew I was 1/4 Italian. Teachers would constantly ask about my rare last name, wondering about its origins and guessing correctly from where it came from. (I didn't know where it came from until much later in life.) I would just shrug my shoulders and say, "Yea, I guess so." I have always related much more to my Mexican background because we've always remained close to my Grandma. However, that never stopped my dad from taking us to Pizza Hut every Saturday night or myself from making spaghetti and lasagna on my own. I would like to say that the Mother Ship was calling us home. We answered.

Changing the subject...

This is what I would like to do on Tuesday. The only problem is the drink. I don't drink but damnit, I love me A Christmas Story.

More Chicken Please

2010-12-14T06:59:00.001-06:00

One of the perfect meals for a cold day usually involves chicken. So, just like last week, I made some chicken soup. However, I'd been making the traditional chicken noodle soup. This time, I opted for the one I grew up with-caldo de pollo. I used both dark and white meat but rather than eat it with the bones still intact, I deboned all of the chicken pieces. I think it makes it less messy, and certainly less work, to enjoy while you watch a little TV and talk about your office bullshit.

Caldo de pollo is accompanied with rice which is made separately. Adding a few mint leaves really brings it home. I couldn't be any happier with this meal. It was perfect for a cold Monday. And now I really miss my Ama whose caldo de pollo is legendary. Everything she makes is legend-wait for it-dary.

The Results Show, Part 2

2010-12-10T10:18:00.003-06:00

Last Friday I had an appointment with my endocrinologist, endo for short, to get the results from my blood work, which was drawn towards the end of October. (Side note: I have visits with my endo typically every 4 months, or whenever he deems it necessary to drag me out there to talk to me about stuffs. Usually, I don't get the results from my blood, which is scheduled to get taken after my visit, until my next 4-month follow-up. And, unless something major shows up, which they would call me about, then I hear nothing until said follow-up. It's sounds odd but it's been working for me and my endo for years now so no biggie.)

After the typical LONG ASS wait at the endo's, I get seen. As I mentioned, I've known my endo for years and we've been doing this dance for a while. However, before my official diagnosis, it was merely a yearly visit. At this point, we should be exchanging Christmas cards and gifts. I'm sure he'd give me a new meter or some strips. Humfph. Anyhow, the big reveal came and hooray if he didn't say I was doing fabulous. My A1c is 6.4, a great number to be at, and my cholesterol is down. It's so good that apparently my shit is better than my endo's. What, what?! The one thing that I have to work on, other than lose a couple of more pounds, is work on getting my good cholesterol up. How the, what the? I've been told adding fish to my diet would help but I'm not a big fan of it so good luck to me.

After the awesome doctor visit, one in which I totally high fived my endo, I made plans to hit the grocery store and celebrate with a few scoops of diet ice cream. Lo and behold, JC (one who has twarted many of my plans to cheat and eat this summer) and, just maybe the doctor, had other plans for me.

No ice cream. Nothing. What the rocky road? I get it though. So, well played, JC, very well played.

But, then I called B and had an early dinner with him. Apparently he had an appointment with his oncologist and he's rocking it too. So, we celebrated on mediocre cheeseburgers at Porch Swing and made fun of the fact that only people with diseases were invited to our little celebration dinner. It's been a week and I am still high on the news. Actually, more for B since his blood work came back with the CML barely making a blip on the tests. Most excellent news. See you in April, Mr. Endo.

EDIT: My brother has appointments with his doctor every other month and while his CML is barely showing up on his tests, it's still present and will remain so until...well, we'll figure it out when we get there. He also has to do a yearly bone marrow biopsy. So, there you go. Let's cue NBC's The More You Know music and graphics. ;)

The Keller Method

2010-12-09T10:46:00.001-06:00

I finally tried a modified version of the Thomas Keller version for roasted chicken last night and, let me tell you, it was amazing. I jotted down the major cooking points from The Amateur Gourmet's version of the recipe last week in preparation for one of this week's dinners.

My handwriting was horrible this day. Oopsies.

After the hour was up, as well as the required resting time (while I roasted broccoli), we were ready to devour the chicken. Dudes, it did not disappoint. The white meat was so moist and juicy while the dark meat slid of their bones with no effort. The skin was so crispy. The only drawback is the smell. I woke up in the middle of the night to the smell of chicken still hanging in the air like a gently woven tapestry. (I wonder if it will hang over Lake Michigan in years to come.) I love the smell but it permeates everything. I kept my bedroom door locked while the chicken roasted so the smell wouldn't attach itself to my bedsheets and my clothes. This morning though, the chicken smell greeted me with a slap in the face. As I type, it's still in my nose.

Regardless, the recipe is surely going to be reused over and over with very minimal changes. It was absolutely yummy.

Cause I Can

2010-12-09T07:17:00.000-06:00

I truly love the cats. They're my babies. Many people will say that it's not the same as having children but others say it is. I have no children so I can't compare. I just know that my pets rely on me to feed them, clean up the box for them and, most importantly, get them their much deserved treats. That's like having a child, right?

No? Then getting them a stocking solidifies it, eh?

I knew it.

Food Talk

2010-12-08T09:13:00.001-06:00

Over at Serious Eats, this thread is racking up the comments. The topic revolves around what you are tired, or not, for 2010 and what you are looking forward to in 2011 all concerning food trends. It's an interesting read and they all are valid. For me though, I'm over the following:

Bacon - I love bacon as much as the next person but wrapping a meatloaf in it just doesn't make it look appetizing for me. I just want it next to my over medium eggs, maybe on some potatoes but that's it. Personally, I find the taste can overwhelm your dish which is why I seldom use it outside of a typical breakfast meal. You will taste nothing but the bacon.
Offal's high prices - It used to be a secret, the yumminess of oxtails and its cheapness, now suddenly, they're $7 a pound and it's sad. I'm happy that the animal, as a whole, is being used but holy moly, it's bordering on a luxury item.
Gourmet burgers - Just give it to me straight with cheese and some good fries. Oh, with the grease (at least a little) running off the side. Yea, that's the ticket.

What I am most hopeful for is and happy that it's getting some notice is:

Improvement of school lunches - I still remember the menu for my school lunches a long, long time ago and they were decent. None of what Mrs. Q is chronicling over at Fed Up with Lunch. If the children of today decide to lock me up tomorrow because of the shit they are eating this morning, I would totally understand. For realsies. During my early 20's, I worked as a reading tutor for elementary children. I enjoyed my job, loved those children and ate lunch with them a lot just to develop that trust with them. However, those lunches were crap. I'm sure, 10 years later, they are worse.

Making time - Monday, I took a day and rather than not lift a finger, I cooked all day long. I made a batch of beans to freeze for future meals as well as made some chicken soup for that evening's dinner. It was a little difficult because in the middle of it all, I really wanted to take a nap but the fear of waking up to that distinct stench of burnt beans was enough to get me to power through. Yes, I would LOVE to take the easy route and eat some ramen on a cold day BUT that stuff is super bad for me. Besides, my caldo was yums and love really is the secret ingredient; Love for body and mind, that is. I know life can be hectic but even if you put in a little effort, such as after you come home with your groceries, prep them, marinade, etc., it really will make it easier during the week when the last thing you want to do is trim the fat off the chicken after dealing with workstuffs.
Experimentation - I know what I like and what I don't like but not before trying it myself. For example, last night I tried moroccan food. How I manage to live this long, and in Houston, without trying it is beyond me. I would like to say I came into my own during my late 20's. I started trying all sorts of food and discovering exactly what meshed and didn't with me. I'm hopeful that more people will give unknown foods a whirl. You never know. Besides, in your late 30's, things change drastically. Gone are the Jack in the Box/McDonalds days, replaced with a turkey breast sandwich on whole grain wheat and light mayo because the aforementioned make you feel lousy afterwards. No one wants to feel lousy after eating. You want to feel nourished, energized and happy. Jack makes me hate myself.

I'm amazed at how complicated food has become. The labels, the government's half-assed involvement, the high cost of eating well preventing low income homes from doing so, the high cost of prescription drugs causing low incomes homes to make tough choices on eating well or purchasing their meals thus compromising their health (an issue that bothers me immensely) and a slew of other items. I love food, I love that in the past year, I have evolved much more than I thought I would. I have broaded my horizons, investigated food ideas and cut out things I knew were bad for me but ate them regardless. What was I thinking? However, today I am. Today I look forward to going home and making my dinner and enjoying the effort I put into it and I hope so many people feel that way.

What's a day off?

2010-12-07T08:22:00.000-06:00

"Geez, Mom. Get out the kitchen and come and check out the neighbors with me."

Cooking, simmering, cleaning, laundry, Dexter, Top Chef All Stars, errands and kitteh scratches.

Take That

2010-12-03T07:51:00.000-06:00

Papas con huevo y frijoles con chorizo. Even a simple meal can take a while to make. The beans, for example, were frozen but they came from a big batch of slow cooked beans on a Sunday solely so I could reheat, mix with chorizo and eat before Thanksgiving because hells no am I hitting up the grocery store with the cray-cray people who finally got around to buying a turkey and all the extras. I wonder if it's the same Black Friday shoppers who camp outside of Best Buy. Speaking of, yea, I did it. I hit up Target at 4a, got my punk ass God children their scooters and then I went home and was a hermit for the rest of the day.

Youth

2010-12-02T10:01:00.001-06:00

Get off my lawn, you crazy kids!

They may as well put up No Smoking signs behind the electives wing of the high school which I totally didn't partake in.

Ok, I totally did.

New Sensation

2010-12-01T08:57:00.001-06:00

The day before Thanksgiving, I was having visions of childhood cartoons. Suddenly, the above image popped into my head. It was a fuzzy image but the basic colors were there yet I couldn't remember the name of the character. All I knew, other than the colors and general appearance, was that the name of the character was also the name of the show. I asked the BNC who is awesome at remembering stuff like this but he was at a loss. B couldn't remember either. Some days passed when I finally got around to asking Chapa. Without skipping a beat, he told me; Freakazoid. It was then that I started a little trip down memory lane (fine, I do it a lot) starting with cartoons to TV shows to music.

For example, I LOVED the Dungeons & Dragons cartoon. As a matter of fact, I think they would make excellent Halloween costumes. I choose Dungeon Master. I never played the RPG version of Dungeons & Dragons though I'll admit it, I always wanted to learn. I did play Pokemon and Heroclix with my nerd friends and was really good at it. Just saying.

Then, Monday, my last day in a 5-day weekend, I visited my favorite music store and found old, used CDs I've been trying to get for years. They included Oasis, Pearl Jam and some Madonna compilations but it was the INXS greatest hits CD that got me. Michael Hutchence was awesome. His charisma, his talent, his voice, everything, is something that doesn't come around too often. I miss his music terribly and his passing was upsetting.

Lead singers with IT are rare. Freddie Mercury had it better than anyone. His Live Aid performance of Radio Ga Ga, with such command of the the audience as they clapped in unison, still takes my breath away. His death brought me to tears. Michael Hutchence had it, of course, and it's a damn shame what happened. Much like what happened to Tupac.

After Thanksgiving, while the BNC and B napped together, I stumbled upon Tupac: Resurrection and was captivated. Tupac has always rocked but to know so much more by listening to him tell his story, watch the footage of his interviews, etc. was a treat. And, just like that, I miss the 90s a great deal. I miss the music my generation grew up with. I miss it more since many of the artists that still move me are gone.

And now I'm feeling old.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T10:26:00.004-06:00

Logan, taken before I stuffed 15 additional people into my tiny home for Thanksgiving. With so many Mexicans in my home, I was tempted to start a landscaping business, maybe roofing.

And it was a grand time. We managed perfectly, everyone ate, laughter and stories were exchanged, football was watched and hugs and I love you were abundant. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Something tells me next year I will find myself in the same situation and that makes me happy because that is what Thanksgiving is all about. I hope yours was a grand one as well.

Even More Doodle Time

2010-11-24T07:40:00.001-06:00

Several weeks ago I ordered some Moleskine books from Amazon and, after almost a month, they finally showed up. I hooted and hollered and then got Doodler's Block. What am I supposed to doodle? What will be the first thing to draw in my mini-sketch book? Pressure. I'm sure by the end of the day I would have doodled feverishly but for now, the pages sit blank except for the first page where I wrote my name, phone number and a $50 reward in case I lose it.

Along with the mini-sketch book, that fits comfortably in my satchel, which I get a lot of compliments on, I purchased a regular sized Moleskin featuring Snoopy. It's to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip and I love it. Just like the above book, this one sits empty with only my name, phone number and reward items filled out. Still, I'm happy.

I drew Charlie Brown on a regular piece of paper but perhaps I should re-doodle it into the mini. Seems right I suppose.

And, speaking of anniversaries, my 6th wedding anniversary is this Saturday. Already? It seems so long ago but, at the same time, not really.

Good times.

Doodle Time

2010-11-23T12:35:00.000-06:00

What can I say? I love me some Harry.

The Other White Meat

2010-11-23T07:20:00.001-06:00

I've been experimenting with recipes lately. I've been making a lot of mashed potatoes, doing some test runs, because originally I was going to have Thanksgiving at my BFF's house and was put in charge of the potatoes. Cooking for people other than your family is tricky because they aren't used to your cooking which explains my starch overload recently. I finally got the recipe down and just like that, I am now cooking Thanksgiving at my house for my family and some friends. I was trying to avoid it again this year but how I can turn down B? Developing my own recipe for pork tenderloin was also a lot of testing. My old recipe involved garlic inside the tenderloin then slathered in olive oil, salt and pepper. However, my new and much more delicious recipe involves a little olive oil, salt, pepper and soy sauce. Just cover the pork tenderloin well in those simple ingredients, roast in the oven at 400º for about 20-30 mintues and bam, yummy pork.

In other Thanksgiving news, it's warm and sticky here in Houston, not a complete shocker, but I was hoping to finally be wearing (sweat)pants to Thanksgiving dinner but, shorts it is...until that evening when a cold front will pass through and drop those temperatures quick. Stay classy, Houston.

Hot Chocolate

2010-11-22T08:35:00.001-06:00

Abuleita hot chocolate is a staple in any Mexican household. It's easy to make and incredibly yummy, from what I remember. I purchased a package for the BNC and made some while the weather was nice and cool on Thursday night. Coupled with some pan de dulce (sweet bread) and your worries should melt away.

For every square of the Abuelita (Grandmother) chocolate bar, add a cup of milk. Warm up your milk, not boiling, and add your squares of chocolate. Stir and stir until completely dissolved all the while not boiling your milk or developing that nasty skin on top. It may be a little undersweetened so adding half a spoon of sugar to your serving may bring out the flavor. I should have tried the Modern Family version, adding some salt, but I decided not to.

Pour into your favorite mug, which may be an oversized mug you purchased 10+ years ago while visiting the Alamo and eat with a piece of sweet bread (not the animal gland).

If you're like me though, you may just salivate as your BNC sips his hot chocolate while you pat yourself on the back for powering through.

Heh.

2010-11-19T00:01:00.000-06:00

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Yup.

2010-11-18T06:53:00.000-06:00

Bright and early, 9:20a. :)

The Final Countdown.

2010-11-17T08:11:00.001-06:00

see more Hurr

And with that, I have Europe's song in my head. Yea me. Anyhow, Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows, Part 1 is a few days away and I already have my tickets. Wut, wut. But now, I have to come to terms with the fact that the end of an era is starting. It was a good time. I can't recall the last time I was so captivated reading a book much less an entire series about a boy who was a wizard attending Hogwarts, a wizard school, all the while battling Death Eaters and Lord Voldemort (yea, I said it, I ain't scared). I know they're children's books but I don't care that I waited in line to pick up some of the books, as they were newly released, with parents and their children. I wanted my book so I could rush home, turn off the TV, the phone, and read in peace and quiet sans my gasps as shocking surprises came about as the pages turned and turned. I was happy. I was happy these books made me so happy. I was happy that it got children reading again. I was happy when some friends, some I wouldn't have pegged as readers, were huge fans. I was happy that I got my MIL to knit me the Gryffindor scarf for Christmas one year (that I still wear). And I was really happy when the movies were made. I wanted to see how my visual interpretations compared to what JK Rowling, the author, and the director (various) envisioned. They weren't all winners but regardless, they will be classics just like the books.

Oh Harry. Oh Snape. Oh Weasleys. Oh Dumbledore. You will always sit safely on my shelf.

Word.

2010-11-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

Albondigas

2010-11-15T07:10:00.000-06:00

So warm, so soothing is what a nice bowl of albondiga (meatball) soup is. As the zombie weather (humid, foggy and gross) was rolling out and the cold weather was rolling in, albondigas for dinner was perfect.

Form ground beef, seasoned with salt, pepper and 1 egg, into meatballs. Then, brown on each side not necessarily fully cooked. After they have a nice sear, get out your tomato paste, broth, thyme, salt and pepper and bring to a boil.

After bringing to a boil, I typically pour in a half a cup of rice and let the rice cook in the broth but, this time I opted to use some egg noodles.

I wasn't disappointed. It was the perfect remedy for a long and strenuous work week. I think I may use egg noodles from now on. The first time I made this dish I was about 14 years old. Underestimating how much rice expands, I must have poured in about 3-4 cups. There was absolutely no broth just rice and meatballs. It's a story my mom tells often. Whoops.

Good Idea, Bad Idea

2010-11-12T08:08:00.005-06:00

I love the Animaniacs. It reminded me so much of The Three Stooges and The Marx Brothers. (Listen, my dad's viewing habits rubbed off on us. It's why I'm such a huge Niners fan. He watched, and being we were Mexican and poor and only had one TV, it meant we watched it too.) I enjoy the humor and the wittiness of the Animaniacs. It seemed like a precursor to the animated movies of the moment where the humor flies over a child's head but they laugh anyhow cause you laugh.

Yesterday, I had my own fucked up version of Good Idea/Bad Idea, a segment on the show but without the HA-HA humor.

Cereal is supposed to be a good idea to have for breakfast and, besides soup, where else can you eat and drink your meal? However, for me, it's supposed to be a no-no. But, because I'm stupid, stupid, stupid, I ate it anyhow. Maybe, just maybe, this time my blood glucose won't shoot up. The box says that it's a great source of fiber, a plus for the diabetic crowd. As the saying goes, denial ain't just a river. Two hours after eating this, my blood glucose was 200+. I have tried several combinations of cereal, all of them with different milks except the whole kind because that is just bad, and they have all yielded the same results. And just like that, it's over, for good this time. So, what was a good idea ended up being a bad idea. I feel just awful that my stupidity, not to mention stubborness, got me such high blood glucose readings. I think about the damage it may, or may not, have caused me in the long run. Stupid indeed.

And then, last night, with zombie weather in full effect here, I opted out of making the scheduled albondigas (meatball soup) and hitting up Barbecue Inn with the BNC. I normally don't eat, much less cook, fried stuff but I make several exceptions. Barbecue Inn is one of them. We sat, we talked, we ate and we compared work stories. For now, he wins the award for tough work week. Later in the evening, after the requisite time had passed to test my blood glucose, a normal reading pops up. Odd indeed considering that that is not the picture of health. But it's always a good idea to maintain your glucose levels and everyone is different. What may not affect me may affect others in the same ways cereal and Barbecue Inn chicken does. So, constant testing and adjusting is a big key to knowing what you can and cannot eat. Before you know it, it becomes second nature to pass on that cupcake, order water instead of (even) a diet Coke, eat until you are satisfied, split your meal with your partner (cause there was no way I was going to eat all of that chicken) and, most of all, visit the doctor on a regular basis. It's hard but it's not. What wil be hard, later in life, is the damage done by acting so carelessly. Trust.

A Couple of New Loves

2010-11-11T13:01:00.003-06:00

Possible spoilers ahead...

The Walking Dead

I enjoy a good zombie movie. Dawn of the Dead is awesome, Night of the Living Dead is perfect and Return of the Living Dead just terrified me. (I was a teenager and I TOTALLY fell for the Based on a True Story disclaimer.) Shaun of the Dead is in a class of its own and it's an Honors class. Anyhow, The Walking Dead is....different. Sure, zombies are walking around trying to eat you but it's more about the human aspects of not only the non-zombies but the zombies as well. For example, Sunday's episode, which I watched last night cause I'm old, really put that thought out there that the zombies were once people. They had lives, stories to tell, just like you, and now they don't have that. It affected me much more than the gory scene that had me dry heaving. However, that scene, immediately following the oh, the zombie has/had a partner moment, gently reminded me that the show is about zombies so tread lightly. If a Zombie Apocalypse is on your list of greatest fears and/or you have had the In Case Zombies Show Up Plan talk with your significant other, it's perfect for you and your partner. In a nutshell, I love this show. Watch it while there is zombie weather outside for extra oomfph. Trust.

TeeFury

This site rocks. If the Woot t-shirt of the day isn't doing it for you, head over here. I purchased this shirt last week. I am officially a t-shirt addict. My apologies.

Punk Asses.

2010-11-10T13:04:00.000-06:00

I need to get this made ASAP and give to my God children for Chrismas (beat that Nintendo DS) because it's what I call them all the time. And I totally have the permission from their mom. Muah ha ha.

Neighborhood Watch, Part Deaux

2010-11-10T06:57:00.001-06:00

Bitty Girl loves to watch the action, as I have previously mentioned, and now that the weather has cooled down considerably, I get to open up the windows, much to her happiness, and let her do one of her favorite things; life watch.

Yes?

Oh, I see Ms. Gustafson's little girl has yet another uncle.

Stupid dog.

Squirrel!

Oh, hai!

Go away.

Happy birthday, B

2010-11-09T07:28:00.000-06:00

For a split second, that awful February day, I imagined that we wouldn't make it this far. That moment didn't last longer than my breath but it was long enough for me to be afraid to live in a world that didn't have you. That moment has stayed with me since and will for the rest of my life. Sigh. There simply aren't enough colors in the universe for me to paint you a picture of how much you mean to me.

11/8/10

Yes? No?

2010-11-08T07:31:00.002-06:00

Maybe?

Papas

2010-11-05T07:46:00.002-05:00

Every summer, the day after school was over, we'd get shipped out to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico to be with our Grandma and eventually have our cousins from Guadalajara, as well as our Houston cousins, meet us there. We wouldn't return until the weekend before school was set to start and every year we'd hate the dash to get our supplies. Parents, I tell ya. Good times nevertheless. It was a time before school gave you assignments to do during the summer, before the internet, before people were scared to let their kids play outside unsupervised, a time when you were allowed to walk alone to the store a few blocks away and certainly before anyone was allowed to roam without caution in Nuevo Laredo. But, my last remaining grandparent is very much alive and doing very well. Everyone can always count on her especially when it comes to food. To this day, you are guaranteed a breakfast of papas con huevos, frijoles and tortillas de harina. The breakfast menu has never changed.

So last night, I decided to make Grandma's old reliable breakfast. And, true to form it didn't disappoint though, as usual, Grandma's is better. I used my remaining batch of frozen beans to top off my papas because it's the way Grandma does it only hers are always freshly made.

And a just because photo of Bitty Girl going through my Hello Kitty tote bag. I got that for $1 at Target and, let me say, I'm not a big fan of Hello Kitty. But it was $1!

Dia de los Muertos

2010-11-02T12:29:00.010-05:00

A photo of B, my Grandpa and I many, many, many years ago at Grandpa's house in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. It's the only photo of B and I with our Grandpa. We, just like, I'm sure, several other families, have an ugly family history and while my Grandpa LOVED us, he was not so kind to our dad, the greatest dad ever. However, my parents do not badmouth the old man, though they are honest about the ugly side of the family history. They also never prohibited me from having a relationship with my Grandpa despite the cold shoulder he gave my dad. I guess I just wanted to know this old man who was guilty of such mean-spiritedness and my parents encouraged me to love my Grandpa with all that I could. I don't hate that old man but rather, I hope he made his peace with his Maker because he certainly didn't make peace with my dad which is, within itself, very sad. I wish I could say I hate him but, in all honesty, the moment he entered my life, which was when I turned 15, he treated me lovingly and kindly, just like a granddaughter who had never had a grandfather before would hope to be treated. And, just as quickly as he entered my life, he was gone. He died 6 years later and opened up the void again.

It is what it is and while I wish I would have had more with my Grandpa, I'm ok with the little time we shared because it was very well spent. And, since we are being honest, I have many of his features: the dimple in my right cheek with the birthmark directly over it, the fair skin complexion and the eyes, my goodness, the eyes. It was those eyes, that day when I saw my eyes looking back at me, that urged me to not be like my Grandpa. I vowed to be a good person, to be kind to others, have compassion, understanding for everyone despite their rough exterior. Most of all, I vowed to never pass up the opportunity to tell the people I love exactly how much I loved them, how much they meant to me and how much I valued their presence in my life. How I wish my Grandpa had done the same to all of his family. Regardless, I thank him for being a part of my life for those 6 short years.

Feliz Dia de los Muertos, Abuelito.

Clucks

2010-11-01T12:30:00.000-05:00

Made by Texas Chickens? I wonder if they cluck with a Texas Twang.

T-Shirt Ideas

2010-10-29T12:54:00.011-05:00

I recently purchased 2 t-shirts from Woot. I purchased today's shirt after I couldn't stop staring at it. Maybe since the cool weather arrived yesterday and I get to wear a jacket put me in the mood to dream about the upcoming sweater weather. Whatever. I got it. Then, last week Woot had a sale on their shirts and BAM, I got this beauty. I'm not a big Doctor Who fan but ANYTHING for Back to the Future. Besides, I totally get it.

Then, during a moment at work, when I realized things were turning a bit too stressfull, I drew this.

This particular one took me a moment because I couldn't find the right face to illustrate exactly how No Bueno is supposed to be read.

I might need to come back to this one and fix the face but I really like it.

This one though, I like a lot. I can envision the whole thing as a shirt as well as the shirt my imaginary person is wearing. The BNC gets t-shirts made for his band and I may inquire about making these 2. I need to sketch them better and that may be hard since I'm not an artist. Hell, I didn't even take art in high school. Come to think of it, I can't remember what I took as my fine arts elective. Spanish? Heh. Let me go off on a tangent. I TOTALLY bombed that class. I would skip it all the time, smoke out by where the auto shop class (another class I should have taken and breezed through since MY DAD is an auto mechanic) was and share some smokes with people I never really knew. So, I received a 50 in that class. Yes, me. I speak spanish, it was my first language and I got a 50. But, I took the final and made a 100. My report card was awesome that year.

Okay, I'm back in. During last night's craptastic Project Runway, contestant Mondo, who should have won, made this amazing tote and I want it. I want to make my own but I'm not creative enough to pull it off. But, maybe, just maybe, I am and just maybe, I should start with a t-shirt.

And now I'm nervous about sharing this.

Beyond Pissed

2010-10-29T08:31:00.005-05:00

I stayed up late last night, Project Runway was finally having its season finale, so my bedtime was moved from 9p to 10p. I went to bed angry, very angry. I think I am done with the show. I joked that I would be done until next season but, after the WTF from last night, I think I mean it. Nina Garcia and The Duchess, Michael Kors, can eat a BIG stale shit sandwich.

More info here and eventually here and here as well.

Move Over, Julia!

2010-10-28T00:00:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you need to clean out the pantry and the refrigerator, bust out your dutch oven and make something that just is nothing short of yums. It came at the right time, too. I've been burnt out lately. I'm tired, slightly stressed and despite my Lunesta, not sleeping as comfortably as I would like. Add the urgent need for new pillows and a perfect storm of yucks in the morning is created. My spine feels off center and that in turns makes everything hurt. I have always suffered from terrible back problems so feeling my back out of whack (haha) has me feeling sluggish and incredibly old. But making dinner is extremely therapeutic for me so, despite a long and tedious work day, putting the time and effort for some chicken noodle soup was just what I needed to get a little spring back in my step. Part of the routine is to talk to a feline, doesn't matter which one, that may have wandered into the kitchen in hopes of a nom, as if I'm on the Food Network, and explain to them what I'm doing, why I'm doing and why it needs to be done. It's got Crazy Cat Lady written all over it (including an A&E show) but I tend to be home alone for a good while until that old Ball-n-Chain comes home. Typically Bitty Girl is my main audience. She listens and watches attentively, doesn't have her legs in the air that much and doesn't yawn. So, excuse me while I check my phone for any missed calls from the Food Network, TLC or A&E.

I Was Unprepared

2010-10-26T13:30:00.000-05:00

Today marks the 2nd anniversary of the passing of the BNC's beloved Grandmother. If I close my eyes and transport myself out of here, I can smell her house with that Grandma smell made up of food, candles and memories. I can feel her hands so translucent, soft, warm, nurturing. I can hear her voice announcing our arrival to her home whether anyone was there or not. And most certainly I can feel the love. It was evident from our first introduction, several years before, that she held the BNC in extremely high regard. Watching them together, as the BNC turned into mush, warmed my heart. Her passing had been expected for a while but it still came as a surprise because you always think you have a little more time. And that is awful, just awful. The family, huge even by Mexican standards, slowly gathered at her home as the day progressed completely at a loss as to what to do. Grandma passed at home, in her sleep while her only daughters (2 of them) were with her. In all honesty, I had never been in a home where a body lay and simply calling Grandma that makes me feel sick to my stomach, but it was something different for me. Then again, I was not present when my own Grandfather passed away including other members of my family. My Grandpa's passing was the first funeral I had ever attended and I was 21 years old. But, it's this unfamiliarity with death that would break me to pieces the day after Grandma died because it was then when I had to put Boochie down. It was something unfamiliar to me as well. I didn't know it was going to be that hard and if you don't know something then you can't truly prepare for it. So, I fell apart very slowly. By the end of this particular 2-day period, I couldn't cry anymore. I was so defeated as I was unprepared for both of these deaths. I was unprepared to sit in a house waiting for them to show up and take Grandma away. I was unprepared to watch her get wheeled out of the house while I held my breath for what seemed like an eternity. I was unprepared to see so many people cry for the first time in the entire time I had known them. I was unprepared to say good-bye to her. I was unprepared to go home and finally succumb to the decision that had to be made concerning my cat. I was unprepared to say good-bye there too. I was unprepared to walk into the vet's office as the staff gave me The Look. I was unprepared to hold him while he went to sleep indefinitely while I cried and cried for him because I kept thinking this is not happening. I was unprepared to go to sleep without him that night. I was unprepared for the lasting effects of putting the greatest cat ever down to sleep. I was unprepared for the hole he left in my heart and my little family. I was unprepared for these back to back deaths. I was unprepared for just how awful that week was going to be. I was unprepared of how hard the life of a pet owner could be. And here I am, 2 years later, most certainly prepared but now with a bandage on my heart because that's where it hurts the most.

Grandma was buried on Halloween day and since November 1st is Day of the Dead, we will be spending the afternoon at the cemetary just like we did last year.

We totally fit.

The Results Show

2010-10-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

I had a doctor's appointment this past Friday afternoon and while I received high marks, I received some sad news. During my 3-day CGM, my blood sugar reached 200 just 1 single time. The culprit was peanut butter. So, it is with great sadness that I part with PB. Who knew that PB would do such a thing? We had some good times there. You will be missed.

Give me a treat

2010-10-21T07:06:00.005-05:00

I know they're in there. You know they're in there. Who are we kidding?

Come on! I was good today!

And now for something completely different...again

2010-10-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

The BNC wrote this as a 9-year old and my MIL, being a super organized hoarder, kept it and finally handed it over to me. It's a piece of folded paper, the word note written on the outside. On the inside is the real gold with the following sentence: Dear mom I am leveng you. cos I hat you. The story of what finally drove him over the edge was, as punishment, my MIL purchased 2 Happy Meals, the BNC's favorite, proceeded to eat them both, play with the toys and then dump them in the trash. All in front of his face. Psychological warfare, my friends. The CIA has nothing on my MIL. That eventually led to the runaway letter.

I adore that he remembered his salutation. I adore more that she kept all of his stuff such as his heavily played with Transformers and the self-portrait he did in 3rd grade.

Live from NY, It's Saturday Night!

2010-10-15T07:30:00.004-05:00

30 Rock was amazing last night. It was live and utterly hilarious and it was what I wish SNL could be one day (again); hysterically funny. I long for the days of Chris Farley, Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and, most certainly, the genius Phil Hartman. I wish I could share my favorite skits but I guess just saying that era was my favorite is all I can muster. Those early SNL with Belushi, Chevy, Gilda Radner, Eddie Murphy, etc. were great as well. Samurai Deli, the Blues Brothers (great movie btw) and Belushi's Olympic commercial for donuts are some of my favorites. Ah, good stuff.

30 Rock gave me hope even if the laughing audience threw me off since 30 Rock doesn't have a laugh track.

There is no reason, much less a tie-in to SNL and 30 Rock, with the following photo other than to showcase exactly what I walk into when I come home every day; A cat nap that I'm sure is well into its 6th hour. It's as if Logan McFatPants was playing with his toy and just decided to take a nap. That is a jerk move if I ever saw one.

If those 3 aren't in a pile then they are scattered. Bitty Girl may be on the counter passed out or on the table passed out. Apolo could be on the couch or under the table.

Notice Apolo's stumpy legs under the table with Bitty Girl nonchalantly wondering why I'm making such a big fuss when I clearly should be getting everyone some treats. She's a menace (II society) for tearing up all of my paper napkins that should be in their holder in the background. If there was a cat juvi, Bitty Girl would surely be in it.

Grandmas Do It Better

2010-10-13T08:45:00.003-05:00

My Grandma makes the most amazing chicken ever. (Are all of our Grandmas the best?) But, she doesn't really bake. She instead uses her oven to store her pots and pans. It must be a Mexican thing cause I've been to several homes in the Old Country where they use it as a storage unit. Everything my Grandma ever cooked was prepared on the stove itself. So, when it comes to chicken, Grandma fries it. Yet, hers doesn't stick regardless that she doesn't own any non-stick pans or a cast iron. Even my momma's chicken sticks. We call this special talent as having The Hand or, in spanish tiene mano. My Grandma tiene mano for everything. She has The Hand for plants, cooking, head scratches, story time, playing games, telling jokes, drinking beer and jumping rope. In other words, my Grandma rocks.

My Grandma showing one of my littlest cousins, bottom right, how to jump rope.

Texts with B

2010-10-11T14:10:00.003-05:00

How come all the other cancers get shade but yours doesn't? This sucks.

I know, huh...oh well...it's all good though.

And this is the kind of shit I talk about with B, though that is the first time I actually said/typed the C word. I retold this text to a friend who found it horrifying. I can see that but this is what I do with my brother. I can't joke about this with anyone else but him cause that's how we roll. When he was hospitalized, a day after, I told him how dare he try to 1-up me. (It'd been almost a year since my diabetic life began.) He laughed and remarked that he knew I would eventually say that.

Lick my wounds

2010-10-11T09:30:00.000-05:00

A chorizo con huevo y frijoles taco is a nice reward for going to work early Saturday morning. So early that there was NO LINE at Laredo Taqueria. SCORE.

Caldo de res is also a nice reward after your team loses a second straight game. At least the Cowboys lost too but how dare they make me root for the Titans. Had we won our game against the Cowboys, I wouldn't have cared much less watched the whole game.

The Texans lost again, Logan. I'm sorry.