Alley Racket

Noises I hear from the alley next to my apartment:

-- Homeless men yelling at each other and digging in the garbage bins. It's a wonder I can't smell them from our windows too.

-- Church choir singing hymns on Sunday afternoons and Wednesday evenings. How can I hear their praises to the Lord so clearly? The choir room windows from the church next door face the south side of our apartment. I don't know if the choir senses when I turn on my TV to watch my Wednesday night show, So You Think You Can Dance, but they always seem to sing the loudest during that time. Damn it, Choir, knock it off with the Kumbaya and let Twitch and Kerrington do their thing with no interruption!

-- Latin music blasting from a ghetto car that is set low enough to the ground the bottom scrapes along the speed bumps. The Spanish-speaking music is SO loud that the bass bumps through our apartment and I'm relearning a second language with each drive by. Who knew Latinos could be such thugs while blaring Celia Cruz from their stereos?

-- Car horns honking while idling in front of an apartment. Apparently, this is the best way to retrieve someone you are picking up. God forbid the person park his car and knock on the door (that would be too old-fashion) or call from his cell phone so he doesn't irritate the neighbors (it's doubtful that he doesn't have a cell phone if he can afford 26" rims on his shitastic car.)

-- Kids screaming at 7AM every Saturday and Sunday. How does playing and running around always involve screaming for little kids? There are dog breeds that are bred without the ability to bark. I'm just saying...let's give it a little thought.

Congratulations, Mountain Man!

My big brother is moving to Denver, Colorado! I'm SO excited for him and couldn't be more proud that he's making the leap to the mountains. For those of you who know Nate, you know that Colorado is the ideal place for him.

Now I have someone to visit in one of my favorite places. Looks like I'll be making many trips to Colorado in the future to visit my bro, and to enjoy the mountain air. Speaking of which - I could really use a vacation sometime soon. See ya in the peaks, Nate!

Congratulations on the new job and new home!

You can conquer any mountain 'cause...you're the man!

Lessons Learned

1. If there is the slightest chance of rain, bring your umbrella no matter how sunny it is in the morning. Otherwise, you will be running from work to the train station in the pouring rain while everyone else stares at you from under their umbrellas. After too many blocks in a downpour, the homeless woman waiting for the blue line train will exclaim from the sight of you, "Damn! It must really be raining out there." Yes, Captain Obvious, it is raining.
2. Don't ever make room for the seat next to you on the El for someone else, especially men wearing too much cologne. Unless you enjoy the overwhelming smell of rubbing alcohol resembling a hospital utility closet, then you should just stay put and make him stand. My nostrils are still stinging from that wicked scent.
3. No matter how nice of a day it is, don't walk to Target to get anything. Everyone knows that a list for shampoo and conditioner turns into a whole cart of everything else you didn't think of. It doesn't take but two blocks to figure out that walking there was a bad idea. Who knew how heavy bags full of dish soap, milk, fist sticks and more could feel after several blocks? Thank God I only got half a gallon of milk.

Old Town & Wells St. Art Fairs

This entry is a little overdo, but work has been busy this week and being on the computer after sitting in front of one all day is not my idea of fun. Anywho...

Last Saturday I went to Chicago's Old Town and Wells Street Art Fairs. I should note that everytime there is a event, festival or outting not in Logan Square, I usually end up walking more than half the way there. Logan Square is just not conveniently located, and when it's a nice day, I opt for walking. So I took the blue line train to the Damen stop and walked all the way from there to Wells Street. For all you non-Chicagoans, that's a bit of a walk.

After a refreshing Starbucks coffee, I met up with a new friend at the Wells Street Art Fair to check it out first. I hadn't even ate breakfast and I was already craving the greasy concoctions of festival food that wafted in the warm breeze. After applying sunscreen to protect my newly freckledy shoulders, I left Wells Street soon after to check out the Old Town Art Fair that took place further north off of Lincoln Avenue.

The two art fairs are not too similar. The Old Town Art Fair is a place for people actually looking to buy art, critiquing each piece with their partner and enjoying a tall lemonade with their upper class friends. Wells Street Art Fair is more of a place to drink beers, enjoy music, eat a buttery corncob from O'Brien's...oh, and check out the pieces of art next to the Budweiser stand. I opted for Old Town early in the afternoon and then hang with the crowds on Wells Street later. (By the way - the Wells Street Art Fair is actually in Old Town and the Old Town Art Fair is nearing Lincoln Park area...odd.)

I gulped down a large lemonade at the Old Town Art Fair. The summer afternoon was sunny and gorgeous - perfect to roam the streets lined with art booths. I picked favorite art pieces and tucked business cards in my pocket...hopeful thinking for the day when I have money to purchase them. Later, I met up with Christina. We decided it was time to try the sangria while we became art critics. Soon we left to head south to Wells Street.

Back at Wells Street Art Fair, I met up with some old KC friends and another KC native. Bruno organized our small group of "used to live and work in KC and now live and work in Chicago." Amber, my old intern coordinator at MMG, was there. It was great to see familiar faces. I hit a point recently where I needed to see someone who already new me - I could be sarcastic and tell inappropriate jokes and not be afraid of judgement just be comfortable.

I had the best time with the KC-turned-Chicago group (plus Christina) on Saturday. We drank the cheapest beer we could find, shared our experiences in the Windy City and relived good times from KC. After two beers, the best guacamole ever (from Adobe Grill stand), two pork tacos and a Twisted Sister red velvet cupcake, we headed to Bruno's rooftop deck for the evening. The cloudy sky looked like rain was coming our way, but it quickly cleared off by the time we settled on the roof. The Chicago skyline illuminated in the clear night sky. I tried to capture it on camera but no photo could portray the moment. Some art just can't beat the real deal. I really needed a day like that.

I'll see you next year, Old Town and Wells Street Art Fairs.

Ice Cream Treasure

The Ogilvy office has an ice cream cooler with lots of yummy choices and its all free. They stock it with the good stuff too: Snickers and Twix ice cream bars, Ben & Jerry's mini cups and ice cream bars, Choco Tacos, King Cones, Push-Ups, ice cream sandwiches, etc.

Today, I discovered a new favorite...the Reese's ice cream bar. It's vanilla ice cream with swirls of Reese's Peanut Butter and pieces of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. All of that covered in chocolate on a stick. Delicious!

Just thought I'd share my happy ice cream experience this afternoon. Now, it's back to work...I love my job.

Weekend Update

I had my first visitor this past weekend. My friend, Lindsay (aka Georgia,) from Atlanta was the guest of honor. My drive to the airport to pick her up was my first awful experience with Chicago traffic. What should take 20-25 minutes to get to Midway Airport, ended up taking an hour and 20 minutes. White knuckles clutching the wheel, sweat dripping down my back from refusing to waste energy on AC...I finally arrived to see a familiar friend.

We went to Gene & Georgetti's for an eventful Friday night dinner. The old Italian men charmed us with their service and crisp white shirts and ties. The restaurant was a place where everyone knew each other, besides us, and the bartendar greeted people at the door by their first names. The highlight of the night was a couple at the table next to us. The lady got angry and threw her glass of water at the guy (like a scene from a movie.) The glass broke and the guy cancelled their orders and left. The woman stayed put and demanded from the waitor that he bring her the lasagna she ordered. He explained that her date left and cancelled the food. A normal person would've left as soon as the glass broke realizing quickly their moment of insanity, but she was not a normal person. This lady calls her date and demands that he pays for her lasagna and gives her cab fare for the ride home. The even crazier part is this guy succombs to her demanding ways and pays for her requests! She doesn't even get two bites into her meal before she breaks another glass out of anger. Something must have clicked at that moment because she finally left the restaurant. The waitors didn't waste a moment after she left to come up to our table and say, "Did you see all that?!" We couldn't stop laughing and they couldn't stop exclaiming in their Italian accents, "No wonder her date left her. I would too! She was crazy!" It was a dinner to remember.

After the dramatic dinner, Georgia and I went to the Pump Room in the East Ambassador Hotel. Framed black and white photos of old movie stars surrounded the room. A Sinatra-esque band played in the background, and we ordered martinis to make it an all-around old school evening. The place lacked air conditioning so we eventually called it an early night.

Saturday morning we went to breakfast at Lou Mitchell's downtown. Loved the atmosphere - an old diner with cheap eats and big portions. The line was way out the door when we arrived, but a guy came around serving FREE doughnut holes covered in powered sugar. Then, as soon as we were seated, we were served a little box of Milk Duds with our waters. The waitress served a bowl with a large orange slice and a prune before we ordered...again, FREE. The food we ordered was delicious and very filling, just how I like my breakfast. After our meal the waitress served a small cup of soft-served ice cream...FREE! I plan to take more of my future visitors to this cozy diner. What a great way to start the morning. Thanks, Lou Mitchell!

Georgia and I spent the rest of our Saturday shopping along Michigan Avenue and eventually making our way to Wrigleyville. We went to Harry Carey's for a beer, and ended up running into a pub crawl that we joined midway through. After free drinks at the pub crawl (thanks to Miller Lite promotions,) we went to Bye Bye Liver. Bye Bye Liver is a live show that entertains the crowd with sketch comedy acts and drinking games. I enjoyed it, but I'm not sure how quickly I'd go back. Georgia, my roommie and I made our way to Wicker Park. We went to Flat Iron (new bar - won't be going back) and then made a stop for some street vendor hot dogs. As we were headed home, we made the decision to get margaritas at El Cid. I became a big fan of the Logan Square place, and plan to go back soon for dinner. Nothing like a great restaurant close to home.

Sunday morning we went to watch Sex and the City. I think we all just wanted to sit in a dark room and relax with a good movie. I was a fan of the movie, but boy, was I an emotional mess for all two hours. Yes, I'll admit it - I cry at the movies, especially chick flicks. Although, in my defense this was no ordinary chick flick. The movie was great, but I felt drained afterwards. Thanks, SATC, for the emotional rollercoaster.

The weekend didn't end in tears though. I sent Georgia on her way back to Atlanta, and then went for my usual two hour walk around the neighborhoods. Still exploring my city and finding new things out there. Stay tuned for more excursions...

Lists, Lists and More Lists

Many of you know my obsession with making lists. I've always had Post-Its or sheets of paper laying around my apartment listing things to do today, this week or throughout the year. My lists aren't only for things to do though. What else is list-worthy? New Year's resolutions, breeds of the dog I hope to own someday, foods I should eat, what to buy on my next shopping spree, funny sayings I've said or heard, companies I owe money to, favorite songs - these are all lists I currently have.

Ever since I moved to Chicago, I began carrying a little notebook around with me filled with lists. The lists are Chicago restaurants I should try, places to go in Chicago, places to take visitors in Chicago, events coming up in the city, etc. Whenever I read or hear from anyone in Chicago about a favorite restaurant, great place to go for drinks, the perfect Chicago date or an upcoming event, I add it to my notebook. It's so handy and serves as my memory most of the time. There are so many new places I want to try and experience in Chicago, so my lists keep track of it all.

My problem is that my lists keep growing and I haven't put a dent in them yet. I've checked off a few to-dos, but I have a long way to go. Looks like I have a summer just waiting for fun things to happen. If you're curious about what is on my two main Chicago lists, see below. If you have a suggestion on Chicago favorites, then post them.

Chicago Restaurants/Bars to Try:

• Lula Cafe
• Ann Sather (for breakfast/brunch)
• Catch 35 (when I have the money to eat there)
• Charlie Trotter's
• Ed Debevic's
• Heaven on Seven
• Hot Chocolate (when it's cold again)
• Blackey's
• Perry's Deli
• Wishbone (brunch)
• Volare
• Violet Drape (or Room, maybe Door...not sure the exact name, but it's in Wicker Park)
• Cafe Ba Ba Reeba
• Sushi Mira
• El Cid
• Azucar
• Cafe Spiaggia
• Gibson's (again, once I have the money for it)

Chicago Things To Do:

• Second City
• Architecture boat tour
• Wicked
• Jersey Boys
• Go to the beach
• Blue Man Group
• Cubs game
• Sox game
• Tailgate and go to Bears game
• Lincoln Park Zoo
• John Hancock Observatory
• Botanical Gardens
• Chocolate tour
• Museum of Science & Industry
• Garfield Park Conservatory
• Six Flags
• "Fly Me to the Moon" exhibit at Adler Planetarium
• Air & Water Show
• Long Grove (in suburbs)

CTA Discovery

After many strenuous rides on the CTA (Chicago Transportation Authority), I decided it's time to share a memorable moment.

Lately, the train has been crammed with people every morning. It doesn't matter how earlier or late I arrive...I can guarantee to be squeezed in like a sardine. I always admire the riders who sit comfortably in their seat reading the latest RedEye while I barely have a grip on the metal bar wobbling on my "sea" legs. I still haven't adjusted or just don't have the balance in me to stand steady on the constantly shifting train car. I'm always bumping into the next person as soon as the train pulls away or comes to a halt at the station. I feel like the jug of milk that didn't get placed properly in the back seat of the car. So while you're driving comfortably home, I'm rolling all over the place knocking everything around in site. With a crammed train car, nobody likes the girl who can't stand on her own. You'd think they would like the comedic act in the morning, but I'm the only one laughing at myself every morning.

This morning there was an overly joyous Latino who could not contain his excitement in the train car. He continued talking to his friend on his cell phone telling him that yesterday was the best day of his life, and that he had the urge to scream about it to everyone on the train. Oh no. I'm all for other people's joys in life, but it was too early and too crowded for this level of enthusiasm. The guy told his friend, "You know, I think I am going to shout out my great news to everyone here. I just need to wait for the next stop since it's too loud now." Everyone surrounding me looked at each other nervously, and the guy next to me directed another passenger to take off his headphones to catch the craziness that was about to happen. The train comes to a slow stop. Then, you hear the big announcement from the Latino, "Everyone, Jesus Christ loves you!!! He loves me! I met him last night at the Baptist church! Save yourself and go to the Baptist church on Armitage to meet him! He's there!!! I'm SO happy!!! And you could be too!!!"

There were mixed reactions throughout the train car. A couple people shouted, "Amen!" while he pronounced his devotion and newfound faith. Other people rolled their eyes and looked absolutely disgusted by the distraction. One guy yelled back, "Jesus is everywhere not just on Armitage!" Another "Amen!" followed that as well. My reaction - I couldn't stop smiling and laughing. How could anyone be so disgusted with this announcement? This man was SO happy (obnoxious, but happy) and who am I to look down upon that. I always viewed the CTA as a place to spread germs and disease. Who knew it also could spread the word of the Lord...and happiness?

I'm not one to shove my faith on anybody and I dislike the preachers who condemn the bypassers on Michigan Avenue, but this was different. This man just couldn't contain his excitement. I've had those moments where joy overwhelms me and I wish I could tell everyone I see, but my self-conscious detains me. I hope we've all had those moments where we've felt so good that in reaction we sang out loud, danced (most likely in our room alone,) smiled so big our cheeks hurt or whatever else your little heart desires.

Since today is Friday, we all have a good reason to be happy. Take a moment and reflect on one of the best moments in your life. Enjoy it as if it were happening all over again.

They Do

Last weekend I went to Nashville to celebrate my cousin's wedding. My cousin, Jeff, married Angela in the most beautiful outdoor setting. Luckily, the weather was warm (yet muggy) and the rain cleared in time for the evening. The ceremony and reception took place at a charming country estate called Cedarwood. Everything about this wedding was unique and enchanting.



The guests waited for the ceremony to begin while a violinist and guitarist played Beatles' songs softly in the background. Yellow, blue and white flowers decorated the aisle and archway while a white farm fence framed the background. Jeff and his groomsmen wore chocolate brown suits that could not be more fitting for the event. Angela looked amazing in her dress and vail - just see the photo below.



After the ceremony the guests waited in the front lawn of the Yarbrough House where candles hanged from the trees in mason jars. A "Southern" lemonade was served with cheese and crackers. That lemonade was SO delicious (despite my dislike for Jack Daniels or any brand of whiskey.) I lost count of how many mason jars of it I drank. Mason jars - the perfect way to serve lemonade in the South. The bride and groom greeted us later, and dinner was served. Oh, the dinner...where do I start? Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, sliced pork, green beans - YUM, simply put.



The reception took place between the Yarbrough House and the guest cottage on a stone terrace that was covered by a white tent. Yellow, blue and white flowers decorated the white linen tables. Guests had little bags of personalized M&Ms with Jeff and Angela's name and wedding date on them. There was also a crossword puzzle for each guest with fun clues about the couple. Jeff and Angela had their first dance to Danny's Song. The chatter rose in the background while they danced, but the couple didn't know any different. They were having their moment, and it was so romantic.

The night continued on with wonderful music, hand selected by my cousin I'm sure. The music was too good and not the typical wedding song line-up. Thank goodness, because I don't think I could live through another Electric Slide. Another wonderful selection of the reception, the wedding cake. Each tier was a different flavor (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) - absolutely delicious. Jeff and Angela ended the evening walking through a procession of guests holding sparklers. They pulled away in a red old-fashion car (not sure the year/model.) The guests left soon after and the lightning and thunder began as we all headed back to our hotels.



The wedding was amazing, and it was such a pleasure to be there for the celebration. I'm so happy for Jeff and Angela, and look forward to having Angela at more family gatherings. I wish the wonderful couple all the best! Cheers!

I will try to post better photos of the wedding, but this is what I have for now.

Running Back to Shape

I am determined to get back in shape this summer. I began running again after many failed attempts to get back in the game for the past year. So yesterday I laced up my Pumas and hit the concrete in Logan Square.

I had my iPod motivating me with the beats of AC/DC, Black Eyed Peas and Billy Joel (don't ask why his music gets me going...something about Uptown Girl.) I'm covering new territory in my neighborhood and on the last leg of my run when I turn the corner and almost get nailed by the ice cream man and his cart. I take this as a sign. A sign that I should be eating ice cream on my couch enjoying a Friends rerun instead of sweating like a dog and dodging little girls on tricylces who won't share the sidewalk. Damn kids.

The first couple weeks are always the hardest, so I must fight through my urge for an after-work snack and my love for lounging on the couch watching TV. Let me know if you have any helpful hints for getting back in shape - no Cosmo or Shape magazine tips though. I mean "How do I convince myself at 6 AM that I should get out of my warm, cozy bed to run an hour before I have a long day at work?" I'm a motivated person, but the next couple weeks are the hardest...we all know how it is. How do you get through them?