Something to spend gift cards on...

I just have to share it. I am now obsessed with the band Blue October's latest album, Foiled. My favorites are the song "Into the Ocean" and "X-Amount of words". Can't believe it took 5 albums for them to come to my attention, but of course there is always the possibility that this album is just better. I have heard some of the History for Sale album and I like the more up-tempo songs of this one. I'm so exceeding pathetic I listened to the "X-Amount of words", "Drilled A Wire Through My Cheek", "Sound of Pulling Heave Down", and "Everlasting Friend" song sequence repeatedly fore most of the drive from DC to Breezewood, on the way to da 'Burgh. Here's hoping I don't overdo it and ruin my appreciation.

In other music news don't forget to get your tickets to the Snow Patrol show at the American University arena, they are playing with OK Go, and it looks to be an amazing show, I can't wait! (use the above link to check out some of their music videos on Launch, especially OK, Go, their videos are awesome)

Secret Santas and the Nog!

Merry Christmas!


The second annual gift exchange/student in the kitchen party appears to have been a hit. It was such a blast. All my friends are excellent chefs, especially with desserts. If you where there I thank you for you company and hope you had as much fun as I did. For anyone who loved it as much as I did, here is the Egg Nog recipe. If you are expecting more than 4 or 5 people, I highly
recommend doubling this recipe.

Ingredients:

1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 Qt. milk
2 eggs separated
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 pint whipping cream (half a tub of cool whip)

Directions:

1. in one bowl beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
2. in a second bowl beat cream until it holds peak
3. in third, large bowl, beat egg yellows until foamy (i'd reccomend beating separately before adding to large serving bowl)
4. Add milk, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla to 3rd bowl
5. fold in whipping cream, then egg whites
6. flavor with alcohol as desired :-).

(pics thanks to heathpie's picasa album, such a good camera she has :-)

Seasonal musings

Ahhh... Christmas... finally some time to take off and reminisce on the year past and muse for the year to come.

In the year past, I've had some great adventures: skiing in Idaho, sunning in the Outer Banks, and drinking in Boston, all of which I never got around to listing on my blog. I feel I should share the highlights for those of you who might adventure to these locales, or just take interest in this sort of thing.


Idaho, specifically Boise, was a blast. I must recommend the skiing at Sun Valley, of course it was my first Rockies mountain so it may just be lack of experience talking. Lots of good trails for those who are of moderate skill. If there you must visit the Seattle Ridge Lodge at the top of the mountain for some of the best backed potatoes I have ever had! Speaking of potatoes, you must check out the "Chick Bacon on a Tater", which contains chicken breast, bacon, BBQ sauce, and backed potato wedges wrapped in a tortilla. They are sold by the street vendors near the downtown bars and are a great substitute for the Jumbo Slice, and a stunning example of the local potato culture.

The Outer Banks was AWESOME! Sorry Ocean City, but you now completely suck in my book. North Carolina is the way, especially when you rent a house with a pool and sleeping room for a dozen. The beach goes for ever, and isn't nearly as crowded. The days in the sun, the nights of karaoke and DDR, and never having to drive through traffic anywhere once after arrival. I can't wait to head back again next year, which we should probably start planning soon.

The Boston trip, the only trip here that was after my blog started, was a blast, that I somehow forgot to mention here. I must say that the best part was the night spent at Ned Devine's in Faneuil Hall of downtown Boston. Had a blast drinking and dancing with Ann ;-) and her sisters. The local bars and restaraunts of South Boston were also quite the experience. The accents are amazing, Good Will Hunting doesn't even scratch the surf ace. If you can't afford the international flight but want a taste of Ireland, just hang out at the blue collar bars of this neighborhood. I should also mention that the only condo I want is one in a converted school house, you can't beat the HUGE windows and tall ceilings, I'm so jealous of those who already have one :-p.

This has been a great year, I can't wait to see what next year brings. I'll put it in writing here so it is almost a contract for the next year. Goals are to visit Seattle, Idaho, Europe, Vegas (again) and the bike trail from da'Burgh to DC. Hope to see you all along the way!

So cold.......

Brrr.... Looks like winter is finally here. At least the ski resorts are finally able to make some snow, i can't wait to try out my new skis.

Tis the Season

Ho, ho, ho, and all that jazz. Nothing says it is the holiday season like a horde of Santas drinking their from Midtown, through Dupont, and all the way to Adams Morgan. Picking up many random new friends along the way. My neighborhood social coordinator was able to organize an entertaining event that began at 2 pm and continued through 11 pm, with a new bar every hour. If you ever wish to spread holiday cheer, I must suggest stopping at Party City. Not only can you get a Santa suit for a mere 29 dollars, but you can get Mardi Gras beads in both Christmas and Hanukkah themes. We began with just a few Santas drinking at the Bottom Line and playing a little drinking dradle, we then traveled up to Dupont, back to Midtown, and then even further up to Adams Morgan. It was great to feel the holiday spirit just walking down the street and seeing the smiles on peoples faces just from your presence. Luckily we all held it together late enough that no kiddies had to see a sloppy drunk Santa. It was a wonderful time, and I hope everyone can join in again next year.