tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47155089708140553942024-03-05T01:03:54.406-08:00Chop SueyA collection of dating adventures and whatnot that tickle our fancy. For creative, fun, independent girls everywhere.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-3126880934784489972012-03-15T11:02:00.001-07:002012-03-15T11:06:28.317-07:00ON LOVE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://theretrograder.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/john-steinbeck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://theretrograder.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/john-steinbeck.jpg" width="245" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Photo via <a href="http://theretrograder.com/2011/06/john-steinbeck-pisces/">The Retrograder</a></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We loved </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/Golly%20-%20even%20rural%20areas%20are%20jumping%20on%20the%20wagon.%20Riding%20public%20transit%20saves%20you%20money!%20http://www.npr.org/2012/03/15/148654778/gas-prices-force-more-people-to-take-rural-transit">this post</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> on </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/">A Cup of Joe</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> this morning. John Steinbeck is just about our favorite author of all time, and reading his thoughtful response to his son's confession of being in love was a treat. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who wouldn't want to get a letter like this? And, is it just us or isn't Steinbeck pretty damn hot?</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-53466129077986224892012-02-14T12:15:00.000-08:002012-02-14T12:17:21.862-08:00FOREVER<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In honor of Valentine's Day and as a tribute to our Valentine, it's time to share our story of the Really Big Year. Honestly, it's impossible to convey all that has happened, the magic and wonder of everything clicking into place. (Yes, we've become one of those annoying google-eyed girls.) But, we'll try.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2yACrOjyw5unU3LkvIagdzjrnIRQU4wWNADWIJ8qNrx6AvD7fNd8uV113W4dBkWELg8Uqmdqldh1sH5YK6FqtFbqIf6JlFhXdUx4kcD86HEwzJxdv7J_UPGIX7gRvSirqgcmeGlN7Ms/s400/vdayjo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2yACrOjyw5unU3LkvIagdzjrnIRQU4wWNADWIJ8qNrx6AvD7fNd8uV113W4dBkWELg8Uqmdqldh1sH5YK6FqtFbqIf6JlFhXdUx4kcD86HEwzJxdv7J_UPGIX7gRvSirqgcmeGlN7Ms/s320/vdayjo.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Illustration by <a href="http://www.ellenvanengelen.be/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Ellen Van Engelen</a>)</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the day after Valentine's, last year, we had a first date. It was a setup, we've mentioned it before. It was the best first date ever and we quickly started spending a lot of time with the guy. By the fourth date (or so) we were convinced he was one of the most beautiful people we'd ever met and in less than six weeks we were definitely in love.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So many moments: Sitting in the garden before a dinner date sipping champagne cocktails with petals floating in them (yes, he made these, we didn't!). Kissing in the car when he dropped us off. Being so scared about what we were feeling, but willing to admit it to him. Our first weekend together where we decided to do "normal," weekend things. Meeting his family and how generous and open they were with us.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For Memorial Day weekend we took him to our aunt and uncle's cabin in the woods and it was there, in our tent one night that he first asked us to marry him. If you'd told us that this was possible - three and a half months after meeting someone - we would have said no-way. But it's true.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was about that time that we decided we wanted to have baby and pretty-darn-quick we were pregnant. It's been a whirlwind since and now we're six weeks away from our due date! Can you believe it?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWVgEJZQN8ll8cfmiVYjPGLR4zXjlrPqCN2IeeFXFtBaa3pV37Sm17_ehoZ2QPEXa-2nhfVVBDadEe2eNLUkXiRSOqMhCJY6xhu3HHlZ5IaQ78ipAu2lbnqfpWZJbAmOr2J7O92LaTOM/s1600/ultrasound.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWVgEJZQN8ll8cfmiVYjPGLR4zXjlrPqCN2IeeFXFtBaa3pV37Sm17_ehoZ2QPEXa-2nhfVVBDadEe2eNLUkXiRSOqMhCJY6xhu3HHlZ5IaQ78ipAu2lbnqfpWZJbAmOr2J7O92LaTOM/s320/ultrasound.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We know, we're incredibly lucky. We can't forget that, for even a minute. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And the reason we're sharing is because it's important to be reminded that crazy and beautiful things happen every day. Be open to them. Be willing to push yourself and try. Even if it doesn't work out the first gazillion times. You can make your life into whatever you want. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were closer to it happening for us then we could have ever imagined.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-22514109841061442152012-01-30T11:36:00.000-08:002012-02-08T12:07:50.060-08:00OF ALL THE THINGS<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We just love this <a href="http://digitallife.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/01/26/10244209-how-a-typo-led-to-a-marriage#.TyLOIbXQOm0.email">story</a> about how mistyping an email address lead to romance and ultimately, marriage. Just had to share.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><object height="360" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Nf3MM7jzkZw&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Nf3MM7jzkZw&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="360"></embed></object></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you know any sweet-but-unbelievable stories about how lovers met? Please share!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Coming up (finally) - our story about how we met the man we want to spend the rest of our life with.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-37149609954500333472011-10-31T10:48:00.000-07:002012-02-08T12:08:48.395-08:00WE'RE BAAACK!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OK, we know we've been gone too long. But our life has been upended in all the good ways and we're still spinning and madly in love.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember that guy we told you about awhile back - the one who kissed us for the first time and told us we were beautiful? Now he's our - ahem - fiancé.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We know we owe you a story about how we went from madly-dating-and-cynical-single-girl to the annoyingly-happy-engaged-gal who tells her single friends - "You never know, this might be your last first date ever. He could be the one." Yep, it's wonderfully true (and slightly annoying, we know).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But first, a shout out to all our favorite singletons in the form of a hilarious book of haikus.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28373396?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/28373396">Haiku For The Single Girl</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/danmeth">Dan Meth</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div> .Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-1169662803647618962011-04-14T10:05:00.000-07:002011-04-14T10:05:42.583-07:00TIME TO BE DIRECT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cksinfo.com/clipart/animals/bulls/bull.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://www.cksinfo.com/clipart/animals/bulls/bull.png" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember that guy we told you awhile ago? The one who "wanted to hear our voice for the first time in person" and then sent a stick-it-to-you email to us? Well, he got in touch again. A full 51 days after his last email, which we didn't respond to. Interesting.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">FROM HIM</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am still curious as to how I missed out on a chance to take you out on a date.<br />
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P</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Persistent. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since silence didn't work. Maybe it's time to be straight with him.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OUR RESPONSE</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P, if you must know:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1) We asked you to call and you didn't, giving some weird line about wanting to hear our voice for the first time in person. We clearly wanted to speak on the phone prior to going on a date.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2) There were other guys we were more interested in going out with at the time so we felt no urgency with you.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3) You sent us a totally rude and immature email after we didn't respond to your advances.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4) We've met someone...the relationship has progressed in the past few weeks and we're not interested in dating other people.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We know that the online dating world can be pretty harsh and laced with vagueness. And we may approach it in a pretty cutthroat way that might not be fair. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There have been lots of guys that we've had online conversations with who've suddenly stopped interacting, who we've gone on date with and who've never followed up. To us, that's just part of the process and we try not to take it personally. We guess we just figured that most people saw it that way. We never meant to be rude or hurtful.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Good luck to you.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What do you think? A fair response? We wonder if we'll hear from him again.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-64245881243154337932011-03-24T10:35:00.000-07:002011-03-24T10:37:35.154-07:00ROMEO LIVES UPSTAIRS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.puppetgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/dairy_cows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.puppetgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/dairy_cows.jpg" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our upstairs neighbor had been terrorizing us for months with his stomping, slamming, music playing and general loud-ass-ness. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had take action when bumping, grinding and moaning were added to the list of offenses. We trudged up to ask him to please, try, please. Keep it down. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Can you believe it - he had the nerve to ask us out on the spot! Uh-huh. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now we were really surprised. What about the girl he was just doing?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Damn! Guess you can't get in the way of a player, especially if he lives upstairs.</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-57729960949596726002011-03-21T12:45:00.000-07:002011-03-21T12:45:50.861-07:00BREAKING IT DOWN<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.travelpod.com/users/souter/1.1240027200.olympic-sculpture-park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://images.travelpod.com/users/souter/1.1240027200.olympic-sculpture-park.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We've found that every time we try online dating we meet a few nice-enough guys. A few duds (or just not people we want to date again) and at least one total weirdo.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Maybe it's just us, but we're sharing an email/text conversation so you can tell us which one of the categories that P falls into.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #1 (from P)</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I enjoyed your pitch, "If you're curious, like an adventure and are open minded and kind - we'll have something to talk about." I like adventures, and am ashamed to admit how few I have had recently. Although the best one of late was the Lynwood Skate and Bowl. For 13 bucks you can have a two sport night. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some things I will use to my advantage, 1) Beige is bad 2) The Columbia city theater is fun 3) The Sculpture Park is great use of "pork barrel" spending 4) I haven't read a lot, but "East of Eden" is a masterpiece 5) Canadian whisky is not whiskey. 6) The Melrose Market beats Serious Pies hands down. *) This one is probably not to my advantage. Steve Sher should not be on the radio, he drives me nuts, and they have the nerve to give him two hours. Open to a beer? A stroll weather permitting? Dumplings? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>The list he references above relates to our bio. We share a bunch of things we like - whiskey, books, NPR, etc. and say that they can use them to their advantage, if they want.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>We're going to stay away from the political "pork barrel" spending comment, because we don't exactly know what he's talking about and if we think about it too much we might eliminate him from the possibility pool. And so, we write back.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogout.justout.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/bowling_pins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://blogout.justout.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/bowling_pins.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi P, </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have you been to the Columbia City Theater since it's been redone? Such a great venue! We've never been to the Lynwood Skate & Bowl. Wait, take that back. We may have been there to skate ages and ages ago. We're not so good at bowling or skating. But, what can you do? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are open to a beer or a stroll. Although we have to get one thing straight right now - we like Steve Sher and you can't change our mind! At least we can agree on East of Eden. A favorite. Have you read his other stuff? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope you're having a good day. The sun is so dazzling! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Me</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #2</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have to say I have not been to the Columbia City Theater in a while. The last time I was there Angie's across the street was still in business. I like Columbia City but it is a little far especially when drinking is involved. If only the city of Seattle could get light rail going quicker, but alas it is going to be a while. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will say the one thing I like on Weekday is when they bring in the guy who covers Canadian Politics. Of course never really remember any names, except for Stephen Harper. It is nice to hear about North American Politics other then the violence in Mexico, or the in fighting here. I put my foot down when it comes to Organic Gardening Tuesdays. Every time I am working on site and that comes on, the crew turns on me and I lose control of the radio for the rest of the day. My absolute favorite thing on NPR is the Writer's Almanac in the afternoon. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know it is late in the week, how does a beer and some pinball tomorrow night sound? Maybe Shorty's? I am open to any sort of random idea to meet outside of bungee jumping or karaoke. If tomorrow is too soon, maybe sometime next week. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I look forward to meeting you. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P (he includes his phone number)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>What's with the political rant? We're into politics and news and such, but seems a little intense for a get-to-know-you email...Oh well, we like a guy who has opinions. </i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Also, we have to say that we like for a guy to ask us for our number and call us. We don't plan on calling him first. Although we're probably being unreasonable.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi P,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, we don't think a date this weekend is going to work. We've come down with the dreaded cold that everyone is suffering from and want to take it easy and not subject anyone to our bad germs! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Maybe next week? (we give him our phone number) <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Me</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>We also don't mention that we have several other dates lined up for the week and weekend, despite our cold. Our calendar is booked!</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #3</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well I am sorry to hear that you aren't feeling well, and hope you feel better soon. Give me a call when you have recovered. I look froward to hearing from you. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>At this point, we decide we're not that into this guy. Especially not enough to pursue a date by calling him when we're over our cold. But, at some point the next week, he emails us again.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #4</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you are feeling better. It seems you and half of Seattle are trying to beat this cold. I was reading an article about some new places on The Hill that I wanted to try. Interested? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear P,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It goes in phases. Right now We're feeling quite stuffy. But earlier today we were feeling much better. Thanks for asking. How are you? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trying a new place on Cap Hill would be fun. Did we give you our number? (we give him our number again) <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Me</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>We know know that we've already given him our phone number. But are trying to make the point that we want him to call us. Is it just us or does jumping from email to a date seem to be skipping a step? Call us old fashioned, but we like to chat once or twice. At least to make a plan.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #5</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Be patient with this cold, it seems that it takes about 4 days to get over. I have seen a couple people try to come back too soon only to get knocked down. So take care of yourself and healthy doses of chicken soup. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I have kind of an ambitious idea for a date. I read an article about these new speakeasies in Capitol Hill. I was thinking we could take a walking tour and check them out. All three of them are right around 12th and Pike. This week I am kinda busy during the week, and Saturday I have a Christening I have to attend since I am the Godfather. I was thinking either Friday or Saturday night if that works for you. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You gave me your number, but I kinda want to hear your voice in person. Also I kinda like the anticipation of seeing if you wrote me back. Hope to hear from you soon. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Yikes! This totally weirds us out. We realize that not everyone is a phone person like we are. And have accepted that lots of guys text us rather than calling but...hearing our voice first in person?!? It comes off as weird, right?</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>We get a text from P</b> (So he does know how to use the phone)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you have made a full recovery. Are you interested in getting together tomorrow or Saturday? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>We decide we don't want to go out with this guy. He seems off. Someone we for- sure don't want to date. We know that his intentions probably aren't coming across as he meant them to...Plus we've met someone else that we really like and don't feel like going on random dates with guys who've already raised red flags. </i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>We ask our friend if we should be up-front and just email P back and tell him that we're not interested. And maybe tell him that if a girl gives him her phone number usually it means she wants him to call her. And he should, even if his preference is different. But she tells us that's not our job.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #6</b><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Are you still interested in meeting for a drink sometime? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>As discussed, we don't respond.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Email #7</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, I had no idea Steve Sher could be so divisive. Good luck out there. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P</span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Um, maybe we were a jerk for not emailing him back and saying we're not interested. But his last email, putting us in our place, seems rather unnecessary. Although it is sorta funny...</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, what do you think? Are we being unreasonably judgmental? Please tell us! And please share your crazy-man stories, we're in the need of a few laughs.</span></div><!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-73662608222032433072011-03-03T10:19:00.000-08:002011-03-03T10:19:46.053-08:00WE'RE OBSESSED<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a story with a soundtrack. </span><br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/15776810?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/15776810"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Doe Bay Sessions - Curtains for You</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> from </span></span><a href="http://vimeo.com/soundonthesound"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sound on the Sound</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> on </span></span><a href="http://vimeo.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Vimeo</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently, we attended a show at <a href="http://www.hugohouse.org/">Richard Hugo House</a>. It was a part of a literary series. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each artist - two writers and three musicians - were asked to write new work based on the theme "Brief Encounters" and preform. It was really amazing. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our favorites were the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Hannah Hynes-Mumford's (a high school senior, impressive!) reading</span> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Macklemore">Macklemore</a>. Both mind-blowing in different ways. It was a special treat to see how Macklemore's rap techniques translated to the essay he wrote and vice versa.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And it reminded us of a brief encounter of our own.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last fall we stopped by a vintage shop called <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/indian-summer-seattle">Indian Summer</a>. We scored some great stuff and admired this cool men's shawl-collar Pendelton sweater on a mannequin. As we were paying two guys walked in. One was super-cute and happened to be wearing the exact same sweater as the mannequin.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of course, we blurted out "You're wearing the same sweater..." (it was a small store) and trotted over to him to check the labels of both sweaters and confirm. Did we mention how cute he was? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He told us that he got his sweater from his grandfather. And that was that. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few weeks later we were lucky enough to be invited to a house show featuring <a href="http://www.theheadandtheheart.com/">The Head and The Heart</a> (don't be jealous), <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelli-Schaefer/339485878950">Kelli Schafer</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Drew-Grow-The-Pastors-Wives/342757610414">Drew Grow and the Pastor's Wives</a>. And, in between getting totally wasted - we went alone and were nervous, don't judge - we spotted a familiar looking guy. But we couldn't figure out why. Until at the end of the night he put on the sweater - it was him again!</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who is he? He must know someone we know...this is just crazy.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then, on New Year's day, we walked around Greenlake with a friend - it was a beautiful day. And who did we see walking the opposite direction? Yep, Cute Sweater Guy! </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We couldn't help but jump. And we think he noticed us because we made brief eye contact. He gives us goosebumps.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Weird huh? It makes us wonder how many times we cross the paths of the same people but never recognize them.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since then we've seen him around even more and actually figured out that we do have friends in common. No, we're not stalking him. But, for some reason he makes us incredibly nervous and we haven't gotten the courage to introduce ourselves yet. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-2620099808807152682011-03-01T12:35:00.000-08:002011-03-01T12:35:29.269-08:00A FULL MOON<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzt55w2XCw0IYGM9R3LLhc4zO6fk24VdfEnnAcl3smmK10_uFsFEIUmpyUUkcmJoRG8UAiM7KmkYmTQ8J4ODL5JPrw_gjZ3e2r-nxaJfK2PUtPe7QegMlpi8Fknauogqz4-mWyw6dDc_Y/s1600/pickwic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzt55w2XCw0IYGM9R3LLhc4zO6fk24VdfEnnAcl3smmK10_uFsFEIUmpyUUkcmJoRG8UAiM7KmkYmTQ8J4ODL5JPrw_gjZ3e2r-nxaJfK2PUtPe7QegMlpi8Fknauogqz4-mWyw6dDc_Y/s320/pickwic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pickwickmusic"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Pickwick</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> at Conor Byrne open mic, photo via Picwick</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last Sunday we went to an open mic* that we like - lots of friends, great local music and it's a good way to kickoff the week. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were hanging out, drinking a beer when we noticed this guy looking at us. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He was rocking an Axle Rose look, and not-in-a -good-way. Later, and completely unprovoked, a guy friend of ours asked us "what was up with the dude with the jock strap on his head?" Now you see our issue?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even though we were avoiding eye contact, dude sidled up to us and...</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Axle: Where you from?</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Us: Here.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Axle (looking at us as if we were bullshitting him): But you're drinking PBR - isn't it from the Midwest somewhere?</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Us: Uh, yeah...?</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We weren't sure there was a correlation.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Axle: So, really, where are you from.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Us (confused): Here? (implying, what are you getting at here?)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then, because suddenly we felt awkward and bad. Like he was trying to make us sorry for being rude. Even though we weren't.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Us: Well, technically we were born in Texas, but we grew up here.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Axle: Born in Texas, huh?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Us: S</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">í.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Axle (now really looking at us as if we're being the rudest): Sí</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Honestly, we don't know why that popped out. He stomped of.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How do guys have a way of doing that? Making a girl feel like she's being a bitch if she's nice, but not giving him what he think he deserves? The four friends who happened to witness the exchange rolled their eyes and gave us the "lucky you lost that one," look.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Axle continued to work the girls in the room. The man was persistent. It got worse - at some point he let his long, curly hair down and it hung in a tangled mess over the jock strap thingymajig.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the end of the night, we were standing at the front of the room, along the wall with a few others, listening to the last of the music and watching Axle/Jock Strap interact with a girl at the bar.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A camera came out and suddenly his pants dropped and all five of us were treated to a peek at his bare ass. It wasn't an accident. We don't even want to think about what you could see from the camera angle! Ugh.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not that we were questioning our earlier judgment - but it looks like we ducked a good one.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*</span><a href="http://seattlest.com/2011/02/21/pickwick_wows_conor_byrne_last_nigh.php"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">A great story</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> (and videos) about Picwick at the open mic. If you haven't heard of them, they're definitely worth a listen. We hope the band doesn't mind being featured in this story. They're absolute gentlemen! </span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-10650868463038608052011-02-27T09:14:00.000-08:002011-02-27T09:14:55.463-08:00TAKING A MOMENT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-kp8EWFM3O6fAFw0JFJvzMtofMuSSVfm6KZIjSL6-BdoniF8vG-tQlD1gl7Mv8UWVFV3ux8CXEXWRsGg0u9bCuLKRe-aFhpkSrqXxD0FHvp2RWbIgsFMTOVo4mg8tVAAyJywOkTkfQo/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-kp8EWFM3O6fAFw0JFJvzMtofMuSSVfm6KZIjSL6-BdoniF8vG-tQlD1gl7Mv8UWVFV3ux8CXEXWRsGg0u9bCuLKRe-aFhpkSrqXxD0FHvp2RWbIgsFMTOVo4mg8tVAAyJywOkTkfQo/s320/7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo by Amber Karnes via <a href="http://www.sfgirlbybay.com/">SF Girl by the Bay</a></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear Readers, </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We just wanted to make sure that you know how grateful we are for you. Thanks so much for reading regularly, commenting, submitting stories - especially all the V-Day ones - and laughing and hoping along with us.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And (here comes the shameless self-promotion), if you do read regularly but don't follow, please follow us. Comment if we say something that makes you think. Even if it's just to tell us we're being crazy or way to critical of a guy (but be nice : ).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have stories, or have friends with adventure-in-dating stories, send 'em in.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We love hearing from you!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">XOXO</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-24013793283078609182011-02-24T22:16:00.000-08:002011-02-27T21:44:43.368-08:002 WEEKS, 1 GIRL, 5 DATES, 4 GUYS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/define-ferns-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/define-ferns-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yep, that means we're online dating again. And it's keeping us busy. This time we decided to try a local source - thought it might provide more interesting prospects. And so far, so good.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, we got set up!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first online date left us feeling deflated. We mean, the guy was nice, cute, interesting, etc. But...there wasn't much there. And we believed that he agreed. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We wondered - how many first dates are we going to have go go on before we get at least a spark of intrigue and excitement? Where we feel confident that he feels the same? We don't think our expectations are that high - we know it's not likely that we're going to go on a first date and come home thinking "He's the one." But, we'd at least like to think more than "We guess it was OK and will say yes, we think, if he asks us out again." Just to see.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Second date was the setup. We've never been really setup before. Have you?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And it was so fun. Gave us hope again. Even though we were super nervous (not to mention the fact that we'd never even seen a picture of this guy - and believe us, we tried. Googling him and all. Nothing.). He was interesting, sexy, easy-to-talk-to, fun, left us wanting more.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We planned a second date right then. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, later that week we scheduled two more online dates.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Second date with the setup - he took us to a great neighborhood restaurant. Ordered wine. We ate and talked our hearts out. And then we kissed goodbye. Asked him when we'd see him again. And he said he hoped soon. And then we kissed some more. Right on the street. In front of the restaurant. How fun!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He told us we were beautiful. And it was perfect.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tomorrow we have another online first date. And Sunday morning coffee with another. Whew - it's making us tired thinking of it! But, really, we can't wait to see setup guy again...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is good, right?</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-69378373979483671912011-02-17T11:19:00.000-08:002011-02-17T11:19:30.348-08:00MOVING ON IN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://art-canyon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/sweet-and-juicy-strawberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://art-canyon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/sweet-and-juicy-strawberries.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two years ago on Valentine's Day, we moved in with our boyfriend S. Not really a romantic way to celebrate. But it was a sweet, exciting step to take.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The only plans we had for the day were to do a lot of heavy lifting. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were outside loading the truck while S was putting his fridge stuff into a cooler. We walked past and saw that he was trying to quickly hide a box of chocolate covered strawberries inside. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The surprise was ruined but we were touched. Isn't he a great guy?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-57008471782460916472011-02-15T09:46:00.000-08:002011-02-15T09:53:34.529-08:00A SPECIAL MAN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cache2.artprintimages.com/p/LRG/12/1291/F81O000Z/art-print/michael-harrison-gerber-daisies-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://cache2.artprintimages.com/p/LRG/12/1291/F81O000Z/art-print/michael-harrison-gerber-daisies-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo by Michael Harrison</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night our hubby came home with flowers for our 2-year old daughter. Three</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> gerber daisies in red paper. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How cute is that? She has her first Valentine!</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">He got us flowers, too. But this was way more exciting.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-2882904680250674502011-02-15T09:37:00.000-08:002011-02-15T09:37:47.003-08:00THE SWEET LIST<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZIuvcWLffD6nS8jKhg9JqhA6peLSIHsLX3xGc30cJlQ3_CybZMm9cP9Edj-dLgXNUOqWYx08uNbIQH8_ddoz21PQU8OMNdaxaBg54vj0Y_aH-e7_JnqI_EFk5lwyiT5vDqrlWEFL6A4/s1600/tony+%2526+tina%2527s+wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZIuvcWLffD6nS8jKhg9JqhA6peLSIHsLX3xGc30cJlQ3_CybZMm9cP9Edj-dLgXNUOqWYx08uNbIQH8_ddoz21PQU8OMNdaxaBg54vj0Y_aH-e7_JnqI_EFk5lwyiT5vDqrlWEFL6A4/s320/tony+%2526+tina%2527s+wedding.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We've been lucky to date a lot of really nice, thoughtful guys. But one stands out in particular.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. We were long distance. A few weeks before Valentine's Day he sent us a box of fortune cookies with these instructions: Eat one a day until V-day, when we would see each other. It didn't take long to realize that each cookie had a custom fortune, ranging from favorite memories we shared, to little things he liked about us. Come on - adorable!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2) Sometimes it's the little things. Once, we stepped out of a shower to find boyfriend waiting for us with freshly heated (with a hairdryer) socks so our feet wouldn't get cold. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3) He told us we were going to his cousin Tony's wedding in Portland. We drove down, got dressed up and headed to the event - gift in hand. We sat on the groom's side. It took us awhile to realize that this was actually Tony and Tina's wedding, the production! We loved that he tricked us. And had us going for awhile. We thought his "cousin" was nuts!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-13396152768474939322011-02-14T08:48:00.000-08:002011-02-14T08:48:26.811-08:00HE LOVES ME, HE LOVES ME NOT, HE LOVES...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mccullagh.org/db9/1ds2-5/red-rose-side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.mccullagh.org/db9/1ds2-5/red-rose-side.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Things had been exclusive with this guy for about six weeks by the time Valentine's Day rolled around. But, because a) we're attachment-phobic and b) didn't totally believe that he was into us for real, we weren't about to bring it up.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, we were shocked when he not only mentioned it, he wanted to take us out. Imagine that - a date with a guy we liked on Valentine's!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He proposed dinner and then catching his brother's show at the oldest bar in the city. When we arrived at his house (he didn't have a car, so we usually drove) he surprised us with roses. He hadn't struck us as the romantic type.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The sweetest thing wasn't even the flowers, although they were lovely. It was the fact that he'd ridden the bus to the florist and then BACK with flowers. On Valentine's Day. (He told us that several women-and-fellow-bus-riders even commented!) He really liked us.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The evening was perfect. A spicy dinner, great music and the best company. (We even convinced the door guy to draw a heart on our wrist with Sharpie instead of his regular X!)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, even though things didn't work out with the guy, we dried-and-saved one of the roses for a long time to remind us to believe in surprises and that we are lucky and loved.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-86882906783623444432011-02-10T10:54:00.000-08:002011-02-10T10:54:26.603-08:00THE ONE<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span id="goog_1228670892"></span><span id="goog_1228670893"></span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuaLkeKWpByCXPIRTYV3ukXbdmiNxW4TyfHZZpwC6PgR03PBKwqAQ0tGnvC4YUPzlcpVluCTLeNmC5y-wBOZg_yxsPbkag2eUotrQjm_z3d7nWcgZB_2dIXhSCy1VrM_Wh8a5KFGJNIw/s1600/party+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuaLkeKWpByCXPIRTYV3ukXbdmiNxW4TyfHZZpwC6PgR03PBKwqAQ0tGnvC4YUPzlcpVluCTLeNmC5y-wBOZg_yxsPbkag2eUotrQjm_z3d7nWcgZB_2dIXhSCy1VrM_Wh8a5KFGJNIw/s320/party+photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ohheygreat">Leah Reich</a> via <a href="http://www.sfgirlbybay.com/">sfgirlbybay</a></span></span></div><br />
We had been dating T for about four months. We were a single mom and our son's sixth birthday was coming up. We love parties but they can be overwhelming, especially when you're like us and obsess over the most ridiculous details. This particular birthday was putting us over the edge.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">T offered to make the party favors. We were touched by the offer. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Being a control-freak, we normally wouldn't have accepted. But, we</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> were completely overwhelmed and knew it. So we took him up on it. And told ourselves we weren't going to tell him what to do. We were so grateful.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">We expected standard favors - little bags full of candy, leggos, plastic toys, puzzles, etc. Or something.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">T arrived with CD’s illustrated with an image of a train. Each one was filled with great kid’s music including “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Iz, and were protected in individual colorful CD holders. He passed them out when all of the guests were leaving. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is when we knew - this man was a serious keeper.</span></span></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-23885060379422552322011-02-09T16:04:00.000-08:002011-02-09T16:04:17.268-08:00CHOCOLATE-FILLED HEARTS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cardiophile.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/heart2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://cardiophile.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/heart2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">A few years ago we were single for the first time in seven years on Valentines day. We were dating a lot but nothing serious. We decided to have a non-romantic but not-lonely night with a guy we had been hooking up with off and on. He came over and brought us a flower. We got to it and he left. We admit it, it felt just right.</span><br />
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</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The next year, we were in a relationship that looked like it could go all the way. We had been dating for about 10 months and it was our first V-day together. He made a big fuss about not liking Hallmark holidays so we expected zilch. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">On Valentines day, a Saturday, we woke up to the most amazing custom-ordered chocolates from our man. We spent the day in bed together, enjoying the chocolate and whatnot. From then on we've called Valentine's the Chocolate Holiday. Not bad, huh? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Two years later, we're marrying him. And we know what we have to look forward to for the rest of our lives!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-10364072826136054882011-02-03T09:12:00.000-08:002011-02-03T14:04:20.492-08:00SKIPPING A BEAT<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the story of the Valentine's Day that never was.</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3227/2768359320_8785dd74b2.jpg?v=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3227/2768359320_8785dd74b2.jpg?v=0" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One year, we were dating a couple of guys. Sort of. Not really. Our love life was actually quite a sad mess.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And we had been working way too much. We worked our ass off all summer long, never went camping, or to an outdoor concert, or even a picnic. It was all work, allthetime.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We get it. The truth about men who are afraid of commitment is that they disappear a few weeks before Valentine’s Day...and reappear a few days afterward. This was the case that year. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, we decided to treat ourself to summer-in-the-middle-of-winter in February with a trip to Australia.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">On February 13th, we flew to Sydney, Australia. And in the middle of the night, we crossed</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Times;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">the international dateline and instantly it was February 15th.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The plane landed on a bright, happy autumn morning and we recall the bells of St. Mary’s Cathedral ringing to greet us as our taxi took us to the hotel. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had completely skipped February 14</span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">th</span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, and it was perfect.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-23575568376493574532011-02-01T11:35:00.000-08:002011-02-01T11:35:27.820-08:00IT'S THE THOUGHT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-eRzraF7n3AZnP-e4fgrJITmjPBNSwRkMKIsgLInTPH8Dz7ZeHlpuZrPm1CXLGXJowPxfzcXGyCOEdf2Yku26DAJuLQzplak-LTpJ88qZW4wG8WzfY-cY_thLsppnazoqZ3en4B2K5wc/s1600/DIY_Valentine_Fruit_Stickers_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-eRzraF7n3AZnP-e4fgrJITmjPBNSwRkMKIsgLInTPH8Dz7ZeHlpuZrPm1CXLGXJowPxfzcXGyCOEdf2Yku26DAJuLQzplak-LTpJ88qZW4wG8WzfY-cY_thLsppnazoqZ3en4B2K5wc/s320/DIY_Valentine_Fruit_Stickers_4.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/02/naturally-sweet-valentines-day-stickers.html">Photo</a> via Design*Sponge</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes it's something small that's just the thing. We're loving these <a href="http://www.twigandthistle.com/blog/2011/01/naturally-sweet-diy-valentine/">downloadable stickers</a> from Twig & Thistle for a DIY Valentine's touch.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-54485768923626688932011-02-01T10:44:00.000-08:002011-02-01T10:44:34.366-08:00A VALENTINE'S RETREAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe3updKR493NyYJgl5vNuMwT2BaKd_LWchjoMk9WgqnQnHnIn05RVKIkP0v5xrx0Q7mgZ3x2Y1M65nFPInMnq9l_XWHsTd7NYjbiOu7h5vF723fw8lVExs275t_GXtH9gU_vGgaQ2hcM/s1600/P1000621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe3updKR493NyYJgl5vNuMwT2BaKd_LWchjoMk9WgqnQnHnIn05RVKIkP0v5xrx0Q7mgZ3x2Y1M65nFPInMnq9l_XWHsTd7NYjbiOu7h5vF723fw8lVExs275t_GXtH9gU_vGgaQ2hcM/s320/P1000621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last year a bunch of us - singles, couples, all good friends - decided to go away for Valentine's weekend. We retreated to Orcas Island, just a quick drive and ferry ride away from Seattle. The </span><a href="http://www.claudiosantini.com/Archive/Residence/Buchter/index_3.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">house in the woods</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> was the perfect spot for cooking great meals (including the above <a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/12/in-the-kitchen-with-sunday-suppers-pt-1.html">butternut squash galette</a> via Design*Sponge), vino, Apples-to-Apples games and a puzzle or two. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We also went on a crazy-and-amazing tour/adventure of the <a href="http://lambielmuseum.com/">Lambiel Museum</a> - a private collection of Orcas Island artists (from fine art to folk), Oriental rugs, antique grandfather clocks and more. The experience is pretty indescribable, but we say it's a must-see if you ever find yourself on Orcas island. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For a festive brunch we made special heart-shaped pancakes and then rushed-off to the ferry line. If you ask us, it was the perfect way to spend a holiday. Truly lovely. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And that's what Valentine's is all about, right?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We die over these pancakes and are sure that anyone you ever make them for will know that they're truly loved.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-L5yDa2TEQlA_Wq0ctuJOGdufZ13I_I-taMQ_r7m_ZbFUDD8j_ShcqDe2GnYmGvzZ3bTY1uAjlNLV5icNDWy7hx09vGTq9V337C9ttO3yFjtDIjOOwOUgZIW5WTuDrVgSDpQ8wCcpQ8/s1600/P1000664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-L5yDa2TEQlA_Wq0ctuJOGdufZ13I_I-taMQ_r7m_ZbFUDD8j_ShcqDe2GnYmGvzZ3bTY1uAjlNLV5icNDWy7hx09vGTq9V337C9ttO3yFjtDIjOOwOUgZIW5WTuDrVgSDpQ8wCcpQ8/s320/P1000664.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">LEMON RICOTTA PANCAKES WITH RASPBERRIES AND LEMON CURD*</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3/4 c. all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 T. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 t. ground nutmeg</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 t. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 T. sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 c. ricotta </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 eggs<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2/3 cup milk<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 lemon, zested and juiced<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Butter, for griddle<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 jar prepared lemon curd</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fresh raspberries, for topping</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Confectioners' sugar, for garnish<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Directions<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preheat a nonstick griddle or skillet</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Combine flour, baking powder, nutmeg, salt and sugar in a small bowl. Whisk together the </span><a href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/cheese/index.html"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">cheese</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, eggs, milk, lemon juice and zest</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> in a large bowl. Whisk</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until combined (don’t over mix). <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brush the hot griddle with butter. For each pancake</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, pour approximately 1/4 cup measure of the batter on the griddle and cook on both sides until light golden brown. Repeat</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. We kept batches warm in the oven until ready to serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Empty the contents of the lemon curd into a small saucepan </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and warm over low heat (we just used the “double boiler method” and put the whole jar in a sauce pan with a few inches of water – cleaner!). <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Drizzle a few tablespoons of the curd over the pancakes and top with fresh raspberries. And, if you want to go all-out, sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Adapted from Bobby Flay (if you can believe it!)</span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-12394092958957440612011-01-13T10:23:00.000-08:002011-01-19T09:28:52.339-08:00SWEETNESS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YWYtlKaR1T1jPtq8_I1IymP2y_9Q93bX7GCud5I3Rt_SWBcFLI8bZNQ2-lwKmwNpTEfI3J0wHqdsWZRMlE_xl1l6xR6nW-qN8ZEHn4QcVydWQWBlNZJNtAcwXtNpyPwF6QIsDEpQ5Ac/s1600/lisa_warninger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YWYtlKaR1T1jPtq8_I1IymP2y_9Q93bX7GCud5I3Rt_SWBcFLI8bZNQ2-lwKmwNpTEfI3J0wHqdsWZRMlE_xl1l6xR6nW-qN8ZEHn4QcVydWQWBlNZJNtAcwXtNpyPwF6QIsDEpQ5Ac/s320/lisa_warninger.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Valentine's </span><a href="http://urbanweeds.blogspot.com/2011/01/valentines-day-mini-photo-shoots.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">photo</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> via Urban Weeds.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have a distinct memory of our 8th grade art teacher reminding us, on a day we were doing some sort of Valentine's-related project, that the word was spelled S-W-E-E-T, not S-W-E-A-T. We blame him for us always second-guessing our spelling.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We're going to do something fun in February and we need your help. Valentine's posts. At least two a week. That means we need eight stories. Or more.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So submit 'em. Please. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They can be romantic, funny, tragic. They don't even have to be from Valentine's Day. Just a good story where your Valentine (or your mom or a friend) did something really sweet. Or at least notable. Birthdays, anniversaries, etc. work, too.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Email us your stories to hellochopsuey (at) gmail (dot) com.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P.S. Isn't this photo HOT? We love the hipster-take on the pinup girl by one of our fave blogs, </span><a href="http://urbanweeds.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Urban Weeds</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. At the Ace Hotel in Portland no less. Cool. Someday, when we have a really special Valentine, we're going to do this.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-88740198880435833202011-01-10T19:06:00.000-08:002011-01-10T19:08:22.500-08:00IT'S GETTING SERIOUS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cabq.gov/museum/history/images/300ErniePyleTypewriter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://www.cabq.gov/museum/history/images/300ErniePyleTypewriter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The best way to make an intention real is to declare it. So here we stand. We need more writing practice, discipline. Blogging is good and all, but we need to mix it up.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday we had coffee with our dear friend - the talented, fabulous M of </span><a href="http://stylednw.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Styled Northwest</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and mentioned our desire to find a writing group. Or something. She was encouraging, of course. And curious herself. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we got home we did some searching and came up with </span><a href="http://www.hugohouse.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Richard Hugo House</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - an organization we knew but hadn't explored much other than knowing they put on awesome events (hope we can make it to the <a href="http://www.hugohouse.org/content/brief-encounters">one with Macklemore</a>, dang!).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, guess what? They're launching a writing happy hour! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Drinks, writing prompts, other writers, space to post up with our laptop or notebook...here we go. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks for pushing us, M!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-2526109046118045482010-12-23T20:25:00.000-08:002010-12-23T20:25:15.305-08:00SOUPAPALOOZA<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuLn9hJRWCgBI0A_1AJBUkozhEqpMul4HXbDdnKJ6ckScIfRw-gX4hI7lrq8NeRZ5mS5jzgyAzdv3GgZJ2-3aEj0fqYjqpS4lP2ls7DAJo9CGAzAb4o7JK-PzazIa1wD8OpzYPxzIZ1o/s1600/P1010765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuLn9hJRWCgBI0A_1AJBUkozhEqpMul4HXbDdnKJ6ckScIfRw-gX4hI7lrq8NeRZ5mS5jzgyAzdv3GgZJ2-3aEj0fqYjqpS4lP2ls7DAJo9CGAzAb4o7JK-PzazIa1wD8OpzYPxzIZ1o/s320/P1010765.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div>Last week we were oh-so-not-tactfully reminded that "no one wants to be alone during the holidays." </span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Right.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Our dating life has been a bit sparse lately. So, in an effort to stave-off being alone - and mostly because a bunch of friends were in town and we've been wanting to host a soup party for years - we made a big pot of soup and invited the masses.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicqShJx9ngdlbE46TAsgWfOiJcqUDbmZ0c4YB3zDoPRBIfvO8hlk4DcMN1hOpEPvuKIgPtDaGO0lsC7kV_BNTunxBgYW8eW4WL7EqQyXCYvHpuH9-JZeAZBrsfSPRNnCHbLsToBHhWJqk/s1600/P1010763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicqShJx9ngdlbE46TAsgWfOiJcqUDbmZ0c4YB3zDoPRBIfvO8hlk4DcMN1hOpEPvuKIgPtDaGO0lsC7kV_BNTunxBgYW8eW4WL7EqQyXCYvHpuH9-JZeAZBrsfSPRNnCHbLsToBHhWJqk/s320/P1010763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We also made amazing <a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/2010/12/in-the-kitchen-with-leah-verweys-savory-cookies.html">savory cookies</a> (cheddar and jalapeno, yes please) from Design*Sponge, man we love those recipes!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The kiddo-guests were hilarious. Lots of hugs, kisses and catching up. People brought bread (and even homemade onion focaccia, yum), wine and a special dessert. It was a blast.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We love our friends and family. Happy (almost) New Year! </span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What do you have planned for 2011?</span></div><div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">RED LENTIL SOUP WITH COCONUT MILK & SPICED BUTTER*</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Serves 4</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3/4 t ground cumin</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3/4 t curry powder</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 t fennel seeds, lightly crushed</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 t dried thyme, crushed</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 t ground nutmeg</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 T vegetable oil</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 1/2 c finely chopped yellow onion</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3/4 c finely chopped carrot</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 medium clove garlic, peeled and minced</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 jalapenos (we've also used 1 Anaheim chili), seeded and minced</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 t finely grated fresh ginger</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 1/2 c red lentils, rinsed</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 can (14.5 oz) vegetable broth</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3 1/2 c water</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 c unsweetened coconut milk (we used light)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 t kosher salt</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 t black pepper</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3 T fresh lime juice</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 T cilantro, chopped</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 T butter (or butter substitute if you want to do vegan)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQO1x_4FZpm6dMSe_HcqIzchXZX4Z094yUYCt9Zu_ogwpwnqGUL9twBAwwi6G2M1-UDJic9fufJYnkGFLvFRt8Y1SZrFkGamN1yaed-YZ5R-SdOP0Qwd6gS765HXZ-tUikmA2ffL6XPA/s1600/P1010767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQO1x_4FZpm6dMSe_HcqIzchXZX4Z094yUYCt9Zu_ogwpwnqGUL9twBAwwi6G2M1-UDJic9fufJYnkGFLvFRt8Y1SZrFkGamN1yaed-YZ5R-SdOP0Qwd6gS765HXZ-tUikmA2ffL6XPA/s320/P1010767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1. In a small bowl combine cumin, curry, fennel, thyme and nutmeg. Set aside.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2. In a soup pot, heat oil over medium-low heat. Saute the onion about 4 minutes. Stir in carrot and saute about 3 minutes. Add garlic, jalapeno and ginger, saute 2 minutes. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3. Add lentils, broth and water. Stir in 3/4 t of the spice mixture. Bring to boil, cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, 30 minutes (be careful that stuff doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan and burn). The lentils should be soft and falling apart.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4. Remove from heat. Cool about 10 minutes. Stir in the coconut milk, salt, pepper, lime juice and cilantro.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5. Melt the butter in a small pan and stir in the remaining spice mixture. Cook 1 minute. Stir into soup and serve.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Recipe via our mom but originally from the Seattle Times, we think.</span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-55518670534742989692010-12-15T11:07:00.000-08:002010-12-15T11:09:52.062-08:00NOW THAT'S HOT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.faqs.org/photo-dict/photofiles/list/581/976jalapeno_peppers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.faqs.org/photo-dict/photofiles/list/581/976jalapeno_peppers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's the holidays and tonight we're going to a cookie exchange. Because we're obstinate (ahem, like to try new things) we're making something different. </span><a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/2010/12/in-the-kitchen-with-leah-verweys-savory-cookies.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cheddar jalepeno cookies</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.* It's an experiment, we've never baked anything like this before.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have to admit, we're a little nervous. Is it too weird? We like the idea of a cookie you eat with salad. (Who wouldn't like that?) And with so much sweetness these days, we were sold.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What do you think of savory cookies? Would you exchange with us if you could? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reviews (and maybe photos) to come.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">*Thanks to Leah Verwey for the recipe, via <a href="http://www.designspongeonline.com/">Design Sponge</a>.</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4715508970814055394.post-82967848630521667832010-12-01T09:19:00.000-08:002010-12-04T14:26:20.723-08:00A GREAT STORY WITH A NOT-SO-HAPPY ENDING<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Speakeasies are all the rage in Seattle. Last weekend we decided to check <a href="http://www.kneehighstocking.com/">one</a> out with a friend. After ringing the doorbell we were greeted by a hostess who led us to our reserved seats. It’s small and oh so cool. You should go.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scoping out the room, we notice a cute guy. But, he was talking to a couple of other girls. They must be together and we dismissed the idea of meeting an interesting fellow.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not long after, Cutie came over and started a conversation. Really cute. We swooned.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Turns out he came alone. Lively conversation followed. He mentioned how he and his friends liked to live life to the fullest. We were intrigued. After a night out, they choose:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Option A - Go home and sleep<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Option B - Don't end the night, but also don't do anything noteworthy (like head somewhere for an after-hours drink)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Option C - Do something a little crazy and fun, like sneaking up to the penthouse suite of a ritzy hotel and hot tubing until the sun comes up<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When our friend went to powder her nose, Cutie asked if we were up for Option C. He suggested a drive to the mountains to throw snowballs and enjoy the first snowfall of the year. We told him we were up for anything. (Really, we thought he was all talk.)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We closed the bar. Guy offered us a ride home. In his 1983 gold Porsche – hello!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvnd-nhm-z_yeAGj4CRT4cXg-3wrbOm7F93F1JqHY5D_cy8rukeX5CBTDtif2amtANGG4BA_SUVhPIFIQkvHT9s2vxdmLfO_TDAK8Chh-B9x5fRy-SeufuN7Xaxi6JD78033KR9F33i8/s1600/1983+porsche+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvnd-nhm-z_yeAGj4CRT4cXg-3wrbOm7F93F1JqHY5D_cy8rukeX5CBTDtif2amtANGG4BA_SUVhPIFIQkvHT9s2vxdmLfO_TDAK8Chh-B9x5fRy-SeufuN7Xaxi6JD78033KR9F33i8/s320/1983+porsche+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We figured that in that car, a bit of kissing would be a possibility. Our friend said goodnight and Cutie asked if we were up for that drive to the mountains. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the risks did pop into our head (potential murderer, driving into the mountains at 2 am, etc.), adventure trumped doubts.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There was a blanket in the back, and we had a hat and gloves in our bag so we cozied up for the ride ahead. There was no radio but plenty of "getting to know you" conversation. And for some reason Cutie allowed us to go through his wallet (yes, we’re nosy). He actually encouraged, probably due to the fact that we noted he could be a murderer. Out loud.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the pass it was snowing. Snowballs were thrown. Which led to kissing. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Heading back to the city, Cutie asked what we wanted next. We replied, “What do you want to do?” <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Take you back to my place and have my way with you," he replied. Sigh.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We considered, but it was really, really late. We were tired and while we were interested, we weren't interested enough. So we told Cutie we’d had enough adventure for the night. "Good for you," he said as he patted our leg. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We thanked him for not murdering us. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back at home but still sitting in the gold Porsche, we waited for him to ask for our number, but he didn't. And we weren’t going to ask for his. With a kiss and a "see you around" we said good night and were confident that not going home with him was the right decision. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We kind of felt alive from the experience. And that was enough.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Curiosity got the best of us and the next day we Googled him. (Knew his first and last name from the wallet browsing, remember?) <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Top of the list: Engagement announcement from August. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Could've been a different guy with the same name? Wrong. There was a photo. And, to make it worse, Cutie was getting married in a week. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ugh. A little guilt for kissing him followed, but how were we supposed to know? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Which makes us now wonder, do we have to ask every guy we meet if he has a girlfriend? Or, if he's engaged? Is this another thing we need to worry about?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We squashed the urge to send a message via Facebook to his bride. But, now you know – don’t fall for the Cutie with the 1983 Gold Porsche and his adventure story. </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2