I had a great Father's Day weekend. On Saturday the three of us saw Up. I generally like the Pixar movies and this one was also very good. Plenty of kid laughs and stuff for the grownups. It's their first one that I can remember that they don't go out of their way to use animation tricks. Also, the opening cartoon with the clouds making babies was very cool.
On Sunday we went to brunch by the beach and then caught the opening at the Annenberg Space for Photography. OK, the name's a bit pretentious, but they had some great exhibits. The HB also liked the free cookies. They had some table tops where you could manipulate the images, like CNN does with the election maps.
I got some good prezzies as well. The new Green Day CD and Guitar Hero: Metallica. I was able to twist the HB's arm to play that with me for a while. He's starting to get into music more, but mostly top 40 hip-hop for now. I don't know at what age I was when I started negotiating radio stations with my parents, but I would imagine it was pretty close to his.
We went to my parents' for dinner (brisket...drool). It gave us a chance to work on details for their 50th anniversary party. Also, with the wife's mom passing, I reminded them that I don't have their do not resusitate instructions or other shit like that. They said that their going to update stuff with their lawyer soon and will send me copies. Also found out where some of their key records are on the computer and that the safe with their papers is unlocked. WTF?
I hope that you and yours had a great Dad's Day.
Showing posts with label Holiday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holiday. Show all posts
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
I hope all of you, especially Lola and Jen's mom, had a great Mother's Day. We started our day by letting the wife sleep in (one of the NZS2's friends called at 1:30am). The NZS2 had his prom last night, so was WAY to sleepy to come out with us. The rest of us went to pick up my parents and take them to one of my mom's fave restaurants--a burger joint at the end of a pier. The views were great, even though it was a bit overcast, and we had a good time. My dad confirmed that he was going to have some minor surgery at the beginning of June. Between that and my m-i-l's health (more about that in a bit), I think the Alaska cruise is off of the table.
My mom and the HB baked after we got back to my parents while my dad and I watched the Lakers' humiliating performance. More about that in another post. Then we went to my m-i-l's.
When we walked in she was sleeping and looked like death. Her skin had the pallor of the overcast sky. Apparently, this was one of her better days. I think she understood about half of what people were saying and did show a sense of humor. The wife was busy jotting down notes for her regular home health care worker who returns tomorrow (she's had the last few days as part of her regular schedule) while bantering.
It must be odd for my m-i-l to have her death bed in the living room. Don't get me wrong, it's a comfortable place in that it's by a window that gets plenty of light and breeze. But, it's kind of public considering that she has to be changed, etc.
A bit later I'll make one of my wife's fave meals (ravioli in marsala sauce, garlic bread, and salad). Hopefully, she'll be able to relax some and read the paper.
My mom and the HB baked after we got back to my parents while my dad and I watched the Lakers' humiliating performance. More about that in another post. Then we went to my m-i-l's.
When we walked in she was sleeping and looked like death. Her skin had the pallor of the overcast sky. Apparently, this was one of her better days. I think she understood about half of what people were saying and did show a sense of humor. The wife was busy jotting down notes for her regular home health care worker who returns tomorrow (she's had the last few days as part of her regular schedule) while bantering.
It must be odd for my m-i-l to have her death bed in the living room. Don't get me wrong, it's a comfortable place in that it's by a window that gets plenty of light and breeze. But, it's kind of public considering that she has to be changed, etc.
A bit later I'll make one of my wife's fave meals (ravioli in marsala sauce, garlic bread, and salad). Hopefully, she'll be able to relax some and read the paper.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
And the Water Parted
As it turns out, the wife wasn't wild about me getting stuff for a romantic snack last night as she had already gone out and got it. So, I got us a few extra treats when I was out getting her flowers (no, not a typical bunch of roses, rather I picked her out some orchids, lilies and sunflowers).
Thinking that the four of us were going to be home for dinner, I found a good recipe to make. But, as they day went on things changed. The HB was going to stay at the nephew's for dinner, then the NZS II asked if he could be dropped off at a buddy's before dinner. So, this meant that for the first time in several years the wife and I actually at V-Day alone together. Woot!
So, we enjoyed a romantic dinner at home, had some good sex, watched some movies and even slept in this morning. Can't remember a better V-Day in a looooooong time.
Thinking that the four of us were going to be home for dinner, I found a good recipe to make. But, as they day went on things changed. The HB was going to stay at the nephew's for dinner, then the NZS II asked if he could be dropped off at a buddy's before dinner. So, this meant that for the first time in several years the wife and I actually at V-Day alone together. Woot!
So, we enjoyed a romantic dinner at home, had some good sex, watched some movies and even slept in this morning. Can't remember a better V-Day in a looooooong time.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine's Day
The wife and I feel the same way about going out for dinner on Valentine's as we do on New Year's. So, we normally do something quiet. When I proposed such for tonight, I got crickets and a shoulder shrug. She's obviously thinking wayyyyy to much about work. I'll still get some goodies (cheese, salami, bread, wine, etc.) for tonight. If she's still not in the mood, then I'll have a great late night snack...heh.
I've been trying to get my arms around the whole Alex Rodriguez mess. Here's a guy with all of the baseball tools one would need (like Bonds), yet he still feels the need to cheat (I never believe a guy who says he quit that stuff before he got caught--they are always looking for an edge). I don't know why the commish doesn't suspend him. When he was using the collective bargaining agreement with the players said that it was forbidden to take illegal drugs. At the time, taking steroids without a prescription was illegal, so, what's the problem? Let the union decide to stick up for a cheater.
However, I don't think that the other guys who tested positive in the (supposedly) confidential program should be outed. You make that kind of promise, you should keep it. Too bad for A-Fraud that his came up in the Bonds investigation.
Just remember in all of this that people scoffed at Jose Canseco when his book came out naming all of these guys. He's been right every time.
I've been trying to get my arms around the whole Alex Rodriguez mess. Here's a guy with all of the baseball tools one would need (like Bonds), yet he still feels the need to cheat (I never believe a guy who says he quit that stuff before he got caught--they are always looking for an edge). I don't know why the commish doesn't suspend him. When he was using the collective bargaining agreement with the players said that it was forbidden to take illegal drugs. At the time, taking steroids without a prescription was illegal, so, what's the problem? Let the union decide to stick up for a cheater.
However, I don't think that the other guys who tested positive in the (supposedly) confidential program should be outed. You make that kind of promise, you should keep it. Too bad for A-Fraud that his came up in the Bonds investigation.
Just remember in all of this that people scoffed at Jose Canseco when his book came out naming all of these guys. He's been right every time.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Hey 2009!
Happy New Year's Day! I hope that you had a great NYE.
We had a couple and their daughter over. We had also invited another family, but they bailed on us due to some husband/wife miscommunication. The made us a bit apprehensive because conversation with the first couple can be a bit one-dimensional. However, it turned out to be a fun night. Lot's of good food (by popular demand I made the xmas ziti), cards and laughs.
After our guests left at about 12:30, we cleaned up the kitchen, toasted 2009 and headed upstairs for a proper way to ring in the new year (heh).
When it come to holidays, New Year's is second behind Halloween in my book. Even though it's the middle of winter it always seems to be a nice day here (I think the Tournament of Roses committee has witches on its payroll to make it so) and there's TONS of football on. OK, this year the Rose Bowl (USC vs. Penn State) is the only intriguing game today, but still. It's a good excuse to get together with friends you didn't see the night before and hang out for the day. Funny, I seem to usually have a worse hangover on Jan 2nd than New Years day.
I still with the Vols were playing today, but that's life.
T minus 1 week for the NZS. The reality has definitely set in for him.
We had a couple and their daughter over. We had also invited another family, but they bailed on us due to some husband/wife miscommunication. The made us a bit apprehensive because conversation with the first couple can be a bit one-dimensional. However, it turned out to be a fun night. Lot's of good food (by popular demand I made the xmas ziti), cards and laughs.
After our guests left at about 12:30, we cleaned up the kitchen, toasted 2009 and headed upstairs for a proper way to ring in the new year (heh).
When it come to holidays, New Year's is second behind Halloween in my book. Even though it's the middle of winter it always seems to be a nice day here (I think the Tournament of Roses committee has witches on its payroll to make it so) and there's TONS of football on. OK, this year the Rose Bowl (USC vs. Penn State) is the only intriguing game today, but still. It's a good excuse to get together with friends you didn't see the night before and hang out for the day. Funny, I seem to usually have a worse hangover on Jan 2nd than New Years day.
I still with the Vols were playing today, but that's life.
T minus 1 week for the NZS. The reality has definitely set in for him.
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Day After Xmas
It is freezing and windy in Vegas today. Yet, the wife had the gumption to grab some early breakfast and get us tickets to a show. Given her usual indecisive self, I got about 5 phone calls within 20 minutes as to what show to see with the boys. The winner: Penn & Teller at the Rio. The wife and I saw them a few years ago and it was pretty cool (I like their Libertarian politics as well as their act).
Today we wandered up and down The Strip. The NZS loved the different themes and the HB was pretty enthralled as well. The wife ducked away and made some money at the blackjack tables (I've yet to play), the boys got some arcade time, and I had a beer before noon, so it's all good. We even went on the roller coaster at New York-New York.
The worst thing with the weather is that it makes going into the jacuzzi untenable. The cold I don't mind. But the wind is another story.
I hope that your day after is going well.
Today we wandered up and down The Strip. The NZS loved the different themes and the HB was pretty enthralled as well. The wife ducked away and made some money at the blackjack tables (I've yet to play), the boys got some arcade time, and I had a beer before noon, so it's all good. We even went on the roller coaster at New York-New York.
The worst thing with the weather is that it makes going into the jacuzzi untenable. The cold I don't mind. But the wind is another story.
I hope that your day after is going well.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Xmas in Vegas
Well, we finally made it. Traffic was hell (the normal 4 hour drive took 6) and our hotel is bit too close to McCarran, but we'll live. The NZS and the HB were blown away by The Strip. My wife's going to go in search of show tickets tomorrow. Other than that, I think we're just gonna bum around and go in and out of the cooler hotels.
I'm gonna take a Tylenol PM and crash.
Oh, at least the hotel has free wifi...Woot!
I'm gonna take a Tylenol PM and crash.
Oh, at least the hotel has free wifi...Woot!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Having Some Water Near Heartbreak Hill
Xmas eve-day at the in-laws has come and gone without serious incident. After calculating how much time it would take to make pasta for 11 people and being informed that we should eat as soon as possible, Plan B was implemented: Make sauce, prepare baked zita and spaghetti out of the box. My s-i-l made some delish bruschetta and salad and we went super-carb. Woot!
Many drinks (diet coke and Jack, cosmos and wine) were served and everyone seemed to like their prezzies. I got Death Magnetic, which is funny since that's what the HB got his mom. I also got come cooking stuff and a book about Andrew Jackson. The HB and the nephew made out like bandits, of course.
We left my s-i-l's at about 5:30 or so. We've been having a nice night at home. We DVRed some xmas movies/shows (A Christmas Carol, It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on Evergreen Terrace) and played some Scrabble. Then, the wife realized that she hadn't baked stuff for the neighbors. So, at 9:15pm on xmas eve, I shit you not, she went to the store and is baking as we speak. So much for packing for our Vegas trip tonight.
The HB is showing odd behavior, well for him, also. This year is by far the most materialistic he's ever been about xmas/hannukah. He's asking how early we can get up to open presents--something he's never done before. We told him 9am and you might think that we took away his birthday or something. I'm thinking that he'll live.
As I mentioned in a previous post, back to the in-laws tomorrow (I'm sensing that we're going to have leftover pasta for lunch) then off to Vegas. Woot!
Many drinks (diet coke and Jack, cosmos and wine) were served and everyone seemed to like their prezzies. I got Death Magnetic, which is funny since that's what the HB got his mom. I also got come cooking stuff and a book about Andrew Jackson. The HB and the nephew made out like bandits, of course.
We left my s-i-l's at about 5:30 or so. We've been having a nice night at home. We DVRed some xmas movies/shows (A Christmas Carol, It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on Evergreen Terrace) and played some Scrabble. Then, the wife realized that she hadn't baked stuff for the neighbors. So, at 9:15pm on xmas eve, I shit you not, she went to the store and is baking as we speak. So much for packing for our Vegas trip tonight.
The HB is showing odd behavior, well for him, also. This year is by far the most materialistic he's ever been about xmas/hannukah. He's asking how early we can get up to open presents--something he's never done before. We told him 9am and you might think that we took away his birthday or something. I'm thinking that he'll live.
As I mentioned in a previous post, back to the in-laws tomorrow (I'm sensing that we're going to have leftover pasta for lunch) then off to Vegas. Woot!
Let the Marathon Begin
For some reason, xmas with my wife's family has somehow morphed into a two-day affair. This year it's because one of my s-i-l's wants to spend a good chunk of xmas day with her in-laws, which is fine. So, that means today all of us are getting together at 11 until god knows when, then again tomorrow around lunch for a few more hours (theoretically, but I'll get to that later).
Given how much I can't stand xmas, this is gonna suck.
The HB stayed at the nephew's last night, so at least the wife and I got to knock it out last night and sleep in this am (the NZS, like most teenagers, sleeps like the dead). After I got this post up, I'll start getting things together for lunch. We're going to do something we haven't done in a while: make pasta from scratch. Yes, it's a bunch of work, but it will keep me in occupied the kitchen and give the boys something to do in case they are getting squirly. I'll whip up a big, thick sauce as well.
I'm assuming that after lunch we'll dig into presents. This will be take for fucking ever because my m-i-l will want to tell a story about all of them and we'll have to constantly repeat what things are 'cuz she's so deaf or pass everything around. One good thing is that I'm sure my s-i-l will have plenty of booze around. If not, it will be early enough during xmas eve day that getting in and out of a market/liquor store will be no problem.
After things finally break up, we'll head home and get ready for our trip to Las Vegas! Woot! The NZS went on a great train tour of the US last summer, but they didn't make it to Vegas and he wants to check it out. I don't blame him, the HB hasn't been and we're always up for Vegas. We were also thinking of hitting the Grand Canyon, but it's going to be too cold there for the wife and the NZS. I'm not sure what shows etc we are going to see (my wife's theoretically been checking that out), but just checking everything out and playing some cards will be fun.
So, my wife keeps saying that we'll go back to her mom's around lunchtime on xmas day and leave for Vegas at around 4pm. I'm calling bullshit--the pull of the black jack tables will be too strong for her. But, we'll see.
I hope y'all enjoy the beginning of Santa's birthday tonight.
Given how much I can't stand xmas, this is gonna suck.
The HB stayed at the nephew's last night, so at least the wife and I got to knock it out last night and sleep in this am (the NZS, like most teenagers, sleeps like the dead). After I got this post up, I'll start getting things together for lunch. We're going to do something we haven't done in a while: make pasta from scratch. Yes, it's a bunch of work, but it will keep me in occupied the kitchen and give the boys something to do in case they are getting squirly. I'll whip up a big, thick sauce as well.
I'm assuming that after lunch we'll dig into presents. This will be take for fucking ever because my m-i-l will want to tell a story about all of them and we'll have to constantly repeat what things are 'cuz she's so deaf or pass everything around. One good thing is that I'm sure my s-i-l will have plenty of booze around. If not, it will be early enough during xmas eve day that getting in and out of a market/liquor store will be no problem.
After things finally break up, we'll head home and get ready for our trip to Las Vegas! Woot! The NZS went on a great train tour of the US last summer, but they didn't make it to Vegas and he wants to check it out. I don't blame him, the HB hasn't been and we're always up for Vegas. We were also thinking of hitting the Grand Canyon, but it's going to be too cold there for the wife and the NZS. I'm not sure what shows etc we are going to see (my wife's theoretically been checking that out), but just checking everything out and playing some cards will be fun.
So, my wife keeps saying that we'll go back to her mom's around lunchtime on xmas day and leave for Vegas at around 4pm. I'm calling bullshit--the pull of the black jack tables will be too strong for her. But, we'll see.
I hope y'all enjoy the beginning of Santa's birthday tonight.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Holiday Spirit
As an atheist, the "holidays" always present a bit of a conundrum for me (my real holidays are New Year's Day and the Super Bowl). I don't want to be all bah-humbug or a hypocrite. So, my primary goal during the season is to teach the HB about sharing what we have with those less fortunate than us.
In the past, we've put meals together with One-Voice. This year, we had the opportunity to give food and presents to the families and interact with him. Like in most big cities, the geographic distance between those who have and those who don't is not great. All of the families we met were either African-American or Hispanic, or both. To qualify, the family had to have kids enrolled in a Head Start program.
I didn't see any family with only one child and there were several where the mom was pregnant. Why a woman who can't provide for the child/children she has doesn't take the steps to prevent having another one is beyond me. Almost everyone we interacted with was very appreciative, except for a few who were too busy talking on their cell phones.
Regardless, I don't think that the lesson of taking the HB (or the NZS who also joined us) is that there are poor people in LA. When I asked the HB what we learned, he said that a) a few people working together could make things better for a lot of people and b) it's important that we share what we have with others.
I don't think you need a dude on a cross or a "miracle" of lights to understand that.
In the past, we've put meals together with One-Voice. This year, we had the opportunity to give food and presents to the families and interact with him. Like in most big cities, the geographic distance between those who have and those who don't is not great. All of the families we met were either African-American or Hispanic, or both. To qualify, the family had to have kids enrolled in a Head Start program.
I didn't see any family with only one child and there were several where the mom was pregnant. Why a woman who can't provide for the child/children she has doesn't take the steps to prevent having another one is beyond me. Almost everyone we interacted with was very appreciative, except for a few who were too busy talking on their cell phones.
Regardless, I don't think that the lesson of taking the HB (or the NZS who also joined us) is that there are poor people in LA. When I asked the HB what we learned, he said that a) a few people working together could make things better for a lot of people and b) it's important that we share what we have with others.
I don't think you need a dude on a cross or a "miracle" of lights to understand that.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Turkey Day
Got up this morning with a low grade hangover and started cooking my portion of Thanksgiving dinner (bird, stuffing and gravy). For whatever reason, the wife wanted the full bird this year. So, I had to make the stuffing early (as opposed to with the breast roast I normally make). The 14lb bird is roasting away and now I'm watching a bit of football before doing stage two on the extra stuffing (I'll make it into a casserole).
When everything is all done, the HB, NZS and I will head to my s-i-l's. My wife went with her earlier this morning to pick up their brother and his wife who are joining us today from ABQ on their way to Hawaii.
Football note--I need to win my fantasy football game and have another guy lose his. Unfortunately, one of my opponents running backs, Chris Johnson, is playing against Detroit, the worst defense in the league. Johnson has two touchdowns...and it's only the first quarter. This is not looking good.
I hope that you have a great Thanksgiving and have the chance to reflect on the good things in your life.
When everything is all done, the HB, NZS and I will head to my s-i-l's. My wife went with her earlier this morning to pick up their brother and his wife who are joining us today from ABQ on their way to Hawaii.
Football note--I need to win my fantasy football game and have another guy lose his. Unfortunately, one of my opponents running backs, Chris Johnson, is playing against Detroit, the worst defense in the league. Johnson has two touchdowns...and it's only the first quarter. This is not looking good.
I hope that you have a great Thanksgiving and have the chance to reflect on the good things in your life.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Halloween Recap
Gheeze...how could I have forgotten this? I'm not one to wax about how I wish the HB stayed a certain age, but I will be bummed when he doesn't want me to trick-or-treat with him anymore.
We started (as we usually do) at our neighbors' for an early dinner. Then we linked up with some of his buddies (one of their moms joined us) and hit the street (I had a red go-cup full of wine). The HB was dressed up as a nerd zombie (had to be seen) and me as a tourist.
There were some cool haunted houses and another neighbor gave the HB a HUGE Hershey bar. He knocked off a bit earlier than usual, which gave me a chance to catch the end of the NZS's football game (the lost in a battle for first place in their league). But, he had a great time, and that's what counts.
With the house decorated, the pumpkins, the dressing up and the lack of presents, I'm still very much of the opinion that Halloween kicks ass over xmas.
We started (as we usually do) at our neighbors' for an early dinner. Then we linked up with some of his buddies (one of their moms joined us) and hit the street (I had a red go-cup full of wine). The HB was dressed up as a nerd zombie (had to be seen) and me as a tourist.
There were some cool haunted houses and another neighbor gave the HB a HUGE Hershey bar. He knocked off a bit earlier than usual, which gave me a chance to catch the end of the NZS's football game (the lost in a battle for first place in their league). But, he had a great time, and that's what counts.
With the house decorated, the pumpkins, the dressing up and the lack of presents, I'm still very much of the opinion that Halloween kicks ass over xmas.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Happy 4th of July
Until I can come up with something more original and ironic, this will have to do for my 4th of July post.
The HB and I will be riding a fire truck in our town parade...woot!
Now go light something on fire. Besides yourself. Or your friends/neighbors.
The HB and I will be riding a fire truck in our town parade...woot!
Now go light something on fire. Besides yourself. Or your friends/neighbors.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Mothers' Day Wrap Up
The marathon went well and drama free. Here's the synopsis:
1) The camera SEEMED to be working fine, but when I went to take a pic late this afternoon I was getting a funky message about reformatting the memory chip. I'm thinking this can't be good.
2) Didn't have any pain walking, but my left knee is pretty swollen, hence restricting my ability to bend it. This made toilet seats seem very low. However, the knee's feeling looser now, so I'm hoping the swelling will go down some tonight.
3) Made a really good pasta sauce to go with the rigatoni we had at my sil's.
4) Enjoyed a good burger and view at a restaurant at the end of a pier with my parents. The HB had a delicious peanut butter shake.
Unfortch, the Lakers sucked in OT against Utah and the Angels lost their 3rd in a row to Tampa Bay (and fell out of first place). Not a good sports weekend.
My wife just left to catch the red-eye to NYC, so tomorrow's a bachelor night for me and the HB. I'm off to KC on Tuesday.
1) The camera SEEMED to be working fine, but when I went to take a pic late this afternoon I was getting a funky message about reformatting the memory chip. I'm thinking this can't be good.
2) Didn't have any pain walking, but my left knee is pretty swollen, hence restricting my ability to bend it. This made toilet seats seem very low. However, the knee's feeling looser now, so I'm hoping the swelling will go down some tonight.
3) Made a really good pasta sauce to go with the rigatoni we had at my sil's.
4) Enjoyed a good burger and view at a restaurant at the end of a pier with my parents. The HB had a delicious peanut butter shake.
Unfortch, the Lakers sucked in OT against Utah and the Angels lost their 3rd in a row to Tampa Bay (and fell out of first place). Not a good sports weekend.
My wife just left to catch the red-eye to NYC, so tomorrow's a bachelor night for me and the HB. I'm off to KC on Tuesday.
Mothers' Day Marathon
Happy Mother's Day! Yeah, those Hallmark bastards have taken it over, but there's nothing wrong with taking one special day to say (official) thanks to mom.
Today, the HB and I will do a little something special for his mom. Then, off to my sil's for a late lunch with my wife's mom. We'll top it off with dinner with my parents. I'm pretty much ready for it, even though it means I'll have to TiVo the Lakers' game.
One small problem is my mobility. I went hiking yesterday and took a bit of a tumble. I'm ok, just some scratches on my right arm/hand but a couple of nice gouges in my right shin and a swollen left knee. I was able to get around pretty well last night (damn stairs) and am about to give things a try this morning. Not too worried.
I did fuck up my camera (which sucks because I took some good pics) and my phone (not so bad as Ms. Sprint grandfathered me one month for my $150 credit, so I'll just get a new one on Monday).
OK, quit reading this and call or go see you mom, ok?
Today, the HB and I will do a little something special for his mom. Then, off to my sil's for a late lunch with my wife's mom. We'll top it off with dinner with my parents. I'm pretty much ready for it, even though it means I'll have to TiVo the Lakers' game.
One small problem is my mobility. I went hiking yesterday and took a bit of a tumble. I'm ok, just some scratches on my right arm/hand but a couple of nice gouges in my right shin and a swollen left knee. I was able to get around pretty well last night (damn stairs) and am about to give things a try this morning. Not too worried.
I did fuck up my camera (which sucks because I took some good pics) and my phone (not so bad as Ms. Sprint grandfathered me one month for my $150 credit, so I'll just get a new one on Monday).
OK, quit reading this and call or go see you mom, ok?
Friday, February 15, 2008
V-Day, 2008
I hope that you and your romantically loved one(s) had a great day yesterday. I went to a meeting and spent most of the time wondering why I was there (but at least was getting paid to be). I had to bring the HB because the client didn't have a phone in the conference room. He was on great behavior, kept himself amused, and ate most of a chocolate chip scone which was about as big as his head.
After getting back from the meeting, my wife came back from work and I scooted with a buddy to the golf tournament. I'm not a huge golf fan, but seeing it live is better than you would expect. For instance, you can walk all over the place with a beer in your hand (in this case, 24oz). You can also get so close to the players as to hold a conversation with them. Being in such proximity really gives you a sense of who these guys are. Lastly, seeing a golf ball smacked 325 yards is pretty amazing.
We left the course at about 5 hoping that we would get home (less than 15 miles away) by 7. You read that sentence correctly. There's a shuttle service that runs from the course to the VA parking lot, but if there is worse traffic in LA than the Brentwood/Pacific Palisades area, I'm unaware of it. My buddy and I agreed that was one good reason for us living in the area where we do. I think I walked in the door at about 7:10.
My wife and I gave up on going out for dinner on Valentine's Day at least 10 years ago. When we lived in Boston we were DYING to go to Olives right after it opened. The problem was that this restaurant, like most in Boston, didn't take reservations (I'm sure you recall how I've called Boston the LEAST user friendly city in the country) and it's not like we had the time to get there in horrendous Boston traffic at 4:30 when it opened to get a 7:30 reservation, or some such shit.
One year, the local NPR station offered gift certificates that came with reservation privileges during their begfest. We gave them money anyway, so this seemed like a win-win. So, we got the certificate and decided to make a reservation on Valentine's Day. We get there and the place is JAM packed. We sit practically within erection distance of the couple next to us and are presented with a completely unimaginative and price gouged for the holiday prix fixe menu. I don't even remember what they were serving. That tells you how good the food was. And the service was for shit. I don't think that we've gone out for dinner on Valentine's since.
As a post-script, we did go to the Olives in Vegas a few years back. The night before we had gone to Le Cirque, which was amazing. So much so, in fact, that it was one of the two times in the 24 years I've known my wife that seafood crossed her lips. At any rate, I don't know if it was the contrast, bitterness from our previous experience, or just their quality, but I was not impressed with Olives in the desert.
Last night, my wife got us bread, cheeses, meats and a great bottle of wine (recommended by Jen at the outrageously expensive fancy supermarket). So, after we got the HB in bed, we enjoyed dinner in front of a fire. After the post-dinner chit-chat, we went upstairs and made love listening to the White Stripe's Elephant. Not a bad way to spend the day.
After getting back from the meeting, my wife came back from work and I scooted with a buddy to the golf tournament. I'm not a huge golf fan, but seeing it live is better than you would expect. For instance, you can walk all over the place with a beer in your hand (in this case, 24oz). You can also get so close to the players as to hold a conversation with them. Being in such proximity really gives you a sense of who these guys are. Lastly, seeing a golf ball smacked 325 yards is pretty amazing.
We left the course at about 5 hoping that we would get home (less than 15 miles away) by 7. You read that sentence correctly. There's a shuttle service that runs from the course to the VA parking lot, but if there is worse traffic in LA than the Brentwood/Pacific Palisades area, I'm unaware of it. My buddy and I agreed that was one good reason for us living in the area where we do. I think I walked in the door at about 7:10.
My wife and I gave up on going out for dinner on Valentine's Day at least 10 years ago. When we lived in Boston we were DYING to go to Olives right after it opened. The problem was that this restaurant, like most in Boston, didn't take reservations (I'm sure you recall how I've called Boston the LEAST user friendly city in the country) and it's not like we had the time to get there in horrendous Boston traffic at 4:30 when it opened to get a 7:30 reservation, or some such shit.
One year, the local NPR station offered gift certificates that came with reservation privileges during their begfest. We gave them money anyway, so this seemed like a win-win. So, we got the certificate and decided to make a reservation on Valentine's Day. We get there and the place is JAM packed. We sit practically within erection distance of the couple next to us and are presented with a completely unimaginative and price gouged for the holiday prix fixe menu. I don't even remember what they were serving. That tells you how good the food was. And the service was for shit. I don't think that we've gone out for dinner on Valentine's since.
As a post-script, we did go to the Olives in Vegas a few years back. The night before we had gone to Le Cirque, which was amazing. So much so, in fact, that it was one of the two times in the 24 years I've known my wife that seafood crossed her lips. At any rate, I don't know if it was the contrast, bitterness from our previous experience, or just their quality, but I was not impressed with Olives in the desert.
Last night, my wife got us bread, cheeses, meats and a great bottle of wine (recommended by Jen at the outrageously expensive fancy supermarket). So, after we got the HB in bed, we enjoyed dinner in front of a fire. After the post-dinner chit-chat, we went upstairs and made love listening to the White Stripe's Elephant. Not a bad way to spend the day.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
New Year's 2008 Post 1--NYE and NYD
OK, I've been baaaaaaaaaaaaad about updating my blog of late. I won't make any empty resolution promises, except to say that I'm going to get caught up over the next day or so.
On New Year's eve we grabbed the HB and our nephew and went to first night in the city where the wife and and I first lived together, even though it was booze free. As a treat we got a hotel room for the night at Embassy Suites (the HB and the nephew love the pool and mondo breakfast). I brought a bottle of bubbly for me and the wife for when we got back to the hotel.
Unfortunately, there wasn't much at first night for the boys to do. It was setup either for adults or little kids. So, we only stayed for about an hour and then went back to the hotel and rented a movie. At 11:55 we switched to a New Year's TV show, watched the ball drop then hit the hay.
The wine we drank at midnight was a sparkling shiraz that some friends of ours gave us. I would not recommend it.
On New Year's morning I got up and watched the Vols take care of Wisconsin in the Outback Bowl. At halftime we got some breakfast and my wife took the boys swimming. After check out we went to my parents. My wife, my mom and the HB went to the movies while my dad and I watched USC kick the living shit out of Illinois (more about the bowl match ups in a a follow-up football post).
We had dinner at my parents and then they watched the HB while my wife and I went to see Social Distortion at the House of Blues. Yes, there is great irony in seeing the iconic OC punk band at Disneyland, but that's how things go. I hadn't seen Social D in many years, but let me tell you, this was a treat. Mike Ness's voice is still great and the band rocked. They started by doing folk versions of some of their best songs (including Ball and Chain), and then did punk versions of some Hank Williams songs. The rest of the set was awesome, including some new songs. Catch them when they come your way.
All in all, a great way to kick off the year. Hope that your New Years was good as well.
On New Year's eve we grabbed the HB and our nephew and went to first night in the city where the wife and and I first lived together, even though it was booze free. As a treat we got a hotel room for the night at Embassy Suites (the HB and the nephew love the pool and mondo breakfast). I brought a bottle of bubbly for me and the wife for when we got back to the hotel.
Unfortunately, there wasn't much at first night for the boys to do. It was setup either for adults or little kids. So, we only stayed for about an hour and then went back to the hotel and rented a movie. At 11:55 we switched to a New Year's TV show, watched the ball drop then hit the hay.
The wine we drank at midnight was a sparkling shiraz that some friends of ours gave us. I would not recommend it.
On New Year's morning I got up and watched the Vols take care of Wisconsin in the Outback Bowl. At halftime we got some breakfast and my wife took the boys swimming. After check out we went to my parents. My wife, my mom and the HB went to the movies while my dad and I watched USC kick the living shit out of Illinois (more about the bowl match ups in a a follow-up football post).
We had dinner at my parents and then they watched the HB while my wife and I went to see Social Distortion at the House of Blues. Yes, there is great irony in seeing the iconic OC punk band at Disneyland, but that's how things go. I hadn't seen Social D in many years, but let me tell you, this was a treat. Mike Ness's voice is still great and the band rocked. They started by doing folk versions of some of their best songs (including Ball and Chain), and then did punk versions of some Hank Williams songs. The rest of the set was awesome, including some new songs. Catch them when they come your way.
All in all, a great way to kick off the year. Hope that your New Years was good as well.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Having a Merry One
Yesterday started out OK. I went to the doc for my annual physical. I maintained my weight (actually, minus a couple of pounds) and cholesterol (I guessed 285 and it was 286, though my 'good' cholesterol is 60). And nothing says, "Merry Christmas" like a quick prostate check (it's the right size and even). Of course, my HMO encourages me to get a physical every other year, and my doctor always asks why I bother coming in.
Speaking of being infirm, the HB has a stomach bug (I think my nephew also has it). He was very tired and not feeling well yesterday, puked when we got home last night, but felt good enough after that to hop in the jacuzzi with the wife and I. He woke up at 2:45am STARVING, so we gave him a bit to eat. Then, he slept in this morning (until after 9) and had a big ol' smile on his face cuz his stomach didn't hurt...for about 30 minutes. Then he started feeling poorly again, even after some breakfast. He didn't even make it all the way through his presents.
Speaking of being infirm, the HB has a stomach bug (I think my nephew also has it). He was very tired and not feeling well yesterday, puked when we got home last night, but felt good enough after that to hop in the jacuzzi with the wife and I. He woke up at 2:45am STARVING, so we gave him a bit to eat. Then, he slept in this morning (until after 9) and had a big ol' smile on his face cuz his stomach didn't hurt...for about 30 minutes. Then he started feeling poorly again, even after some breakfast. He didn't even make it all the way through his presents.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Pre-Holiday Crap
As usual, the holidays at the wife's house have built in drama. The original plan that everyone agreed to was to head over there around lunch, hang out with cold cuts and martinis (I like that new twist), pop a roast in the oven and open presents while it's cooking. Then, my wife's oldest sister lets everyone know that she has to be about 20 min down the road by 5pm, so can we do things earlier. No problem, as they (my wife and her sisters) decide that an earlier start is fine.
Yesterday, the older s-i-l then announces that she needs to be further down the road even earlier on the 25th and can we move the whole shebang to today at 11am. Fine, whatever, except I know that this means we'll be hanging out with the wife's family two days in a row, after she spent the whole day with them yesterday. More on that in a minute.
I gotta be open with y'all. I hate xmas. It's one of the few things where I agree with the christianists. It should be religious (not commercial) and if christians want to greet each other with "Merry Christmas" they shouldn't be scolded by the PC police. Of course, since all religious fundamentalists are fanatics, they can't help but shoving Merry Christmas down everyone's throats, but that's a different story.
I don't mind having a particular time of the year to remind us to be happy about what we have and the people in our lives, thought Thanksgiving seems to be the best time for that. And I don't mind that our economy is shut down for a day or two while the dominant religion in our country celebrates one of the two holiest days on their calendar. But that it drives our lives from the day after Thanksgiving to New Year's is just absurd. My wife's not a big shopper, so going around (or online) finding her family and the HB just the right thing is nuts (I do all of my shopping in about 45 min online with one trip to the jewelery store with the HB).
When someone asks me what I want for christmas (a not-so-bright question to an atheist), I always answer, "Nothing. I have more than enough money to buy what I want and need." It's not meant to be boorish, but if you want to get me something, purchase something that speaks to you about me. As with all signs of affection, the price has nothing to do with its value.
So, after I finish this post, I'm off to the doctor for my annual physical. The only mystery is whether my age (44), weight (probably around 165-170), cholesterol (high 200s, I predict from last week's test) combines for my HMOs magic number for me to start a lifetime of anti-statin medication. After that, my wife wants me to go look at a sectional sofa for our living room that she found with her sisters yesterday. I don't think that'll work in that it will make us late for our first christmas martini.
To my christian friends and readers, Merry Christmas. I hope that tonite and tomorrow you find joy in the birth of your savior and use his teachings to bring peace and joy to the world.
For the rest of us, enjoy the day off from work and tie on a good one.
Yesterday, the older s-i-l then announces that she needs to be further down the road even earlier on the 25th and can we move the whole shebang to today at 11am. Fine, whatever, except I know that this means we'll be hanging out with the wife's family two days in a row, after she spent the whole day with them yesterday. More on that in a minute.
I gotta be open with y'all. I hate xmas. It's one of the few things where I agree with the christianists. It should be religious (not commercial) and if christians want to greet each other with "Merry Christmas" they shouldn't be scolded by the PC police. Of course, since all religious fundamentalists are fanatics, they can't help but shoving Merry Christmas down everyone's throats, but that's a different story.
I don't mind having a particular time of the year to remind us to be happy about what we have and the people in our lives, thought Thanksgiving seems to be the best time for that. And I don't mind that our economy is shut down for a day or two while the dominant religion in our country celebrates one of the two holiest days on their calendar. But that it drives our lives from the day after Thanksgiving to New Year's is just absurd. My wife's not a big shopper, so going around (or online) finding her family and the HB just the right thing is nuts (I do all of my shopping in about 45 min online with one trip to the jewelery store with the HB).
When someone asks me what I want for christmas (a not-so-bright question to an atheist), I always answer, "Nothing. I have more than enough money to buy what I want and need." It's not meant to be boorish, but if you want to get me something, purchase something that speaks to you about me. As with all signs of affection, the price has nothing to do with its value.
So, after I finish this post, I'm off to the doctor for my annual physical. The only mystery is whether my age (44), weight (probably around 165-170), cholesterol (high 200s, I predict from last week's test) combines for my HMOs magic number for me to start a lifetime of anti-statin medication. After that, my wife wants me to go look at a sectional sofa for our living room that she found with her sisters yesterday. I don't think that'll work in that it will make us late for our first christmas martini.
To my christian friends and readers, Merry Christmas. I hope that tonite and tomorrow you find joy in the birth of your savior and use his teachings to bring peace and joy to the world.
For the rest of us, enjoy the day off from work and tie on a good one.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
That Time of the Year and a Week's Worth of Musings
OK, got most of my holiday cards out (OK, the friends in New Zealand are getting theirs WAY late this year). I send my business ones via e-mail, but my wife is still insistent on the tree-killing variety. And why she doesn't keep the addresses electronically is beyond me (of course, that could lead to that horror of horrors--printing labels!).
Last weekend was quite social. A few parties (including an afternoon martini party at a new boutique hotel near us), open houses, etc. Being an introvert, I thought my wife was going to crawl into a shell for all of Monday and Tuesday. The HB seemed to enjoy it all.
Speaking of the HB, I DVR'd the Lord of the Rings trilogy over the weekend. Since he's so into Harry Potter I figured he would enjoy it. So far he's good with it. We have to pause it every now and then so we can review all of the characters and what they are up to. But, he's following it pretty well and asking some good questions. I told him that he should consult an expert (Lynn) when he feels the need to.
LOTR was something Lynn and I shared when we were kids and when I went to see them in the theaters I thought of her. When I setup e-mail accounts for her I would always use Arwen as the password.
Observant readers have probably noticed that I haven't mentioned Lynn in a while. I wouldn't say that our relationship is dead, but it's on life support. The reasons are complicated and perhaps stupid. I'm not going to go into it now (I'm tired), but suffice it to say that I didn't like where it was, so I pulled back. I'm sad that things are they way they are, but it became apparent that having her out of my life was going to make me less miserable. And I'm better about it every day.
The HB's winter break starts on Thursday, so, of course, a friend is sleeping over on Wednesday. It's raining here. If it's snowing in the mountains I'll take the boys sledding. Otherwise, I think Thursday will be a day of GameBoy and The Golden Compass.
Last weekend was quite social. A few parties (including an afternoon martini party at a new boutique hotel near us), open houses, etc. Being an introvert, I thought my wife was going to crawl into a shell for all of Monday and Tuesday. The HB seemed to enjoy it all.
Speaking of the HB, I DVR'd the Lord of the Rings trilogy over the weekend. Since he's so into Harry Potter I figured he would enjoy it. So far he's good with it. We have to pause it every now and then so we can review all of the characters and what they are up to. But, he's following it pretty well and asking some good questions. I told him that he should consult an expert (Lynn) when he feels the need to.
LOTR was something Lynn and I shared when we were kids and when I went to see them in the theaters I thought of her. When I setup e-mail accounts for her I would always use Arwen as the password.
Observant readers have probably noticed that I haven't mentioned Lynn in a while. I wouldn't say that our relationship is dead, but it's on life support. The reasons are complicated and perhaps stupid. I'm not going to go into it now (I'm tired), but suffice it to say that I didn't like where it was, so I pulled back. I'm sad that things are they way they are, but it became apparent that having her out of my life was going to make me less miserable. And I'm better about it every day.
The HB's winter break starts on Thursday, so, of course, a friend is sleeping over on Wednesday. It's raining here. If it's snowing in the mountains I'll take the boys sledding. Otherwise, I think Thursday will be a day of GameBoy and The Golden Compass.
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