LET ME TELL YOU A STORY

The sting is forever

2012-01-20T20:35:00.000-08:00

New ink. Thanks to Jesse Olmstead at Hawthorne Ink.

INSPIRATION:

Room mates.

2012-01-13T18:01:00.001-08:00

(Venu enters without knocking)
Me: Hi-mister-who-doesn't-knock-and-doesn't-live-here.
Venu: Wow, you make it so cheery to come home too.
Me: You don't live here.
(pause)
Venu: Wow, it's like Seinfeld.

Reason number one billion why I like living alone. My room mate's ex boyfriend, sorta her boyfriend, well the guy that buys her dinner, rescues her when her car won't start and comes over at 2am. I'm rather annoyed today. Work was hectic but it ended on a high note. Lots of laughing and my co-workers helping me put a positive spin on an over whelming day. Long bus ride home, cold walk to my front door and I find that my dog has had another accident. And what's my room mate doing? The hell if I know.

Ignoring the puddle of urine soaking into the carpet. Ignoring the dog that in her state of sickness can't manage. I can't even get my coat off while I'm cleaning the carpet and he walks in. I'm just... done. I'm done with the miscommunication, the unhealthy relationship and co-dependent behavior. I'm done with having a room mate that is passive aggressive, bounces checks and has the balls to questions my responsibility of letting her borrow that much money in the first place.

I'm going to work very hard to save some money. I've put the word out there that I may go back to bartending/serving as a second job. I really don't want to but I have to get some money in the bank because right now, I can't even afford groceries.

I'm 28 years old and I haven't graduated and live paycheck to paycheck. These things usually don't bother me but in this moment, I'm disappointed in the position I'm in - and I only have myself to blame. I'm very much looking forward to passing time in front of the tv and trying to ignore my room mate.

I like to discuss things, she likes to leave the house for three days, not tell me where she's going and communicate via text... when she needs me to buy something at the grocery store. Now more than ever, I wish I had the same amount of selfishness and insensitivity as her (along with a hefty bank account) so I could just bail. Our lease is up in July. That gives me 6 months to save some money.

Six months.

1 year

2012-01-06T21:31:00.001-08:00

It's been one year since I had to euthanize Buddy. I don't think a day has gone by that I haven't missed him.
4/8/1995 to 1/6/2011.

And of all days, this song is posted to my FB page and reminds me of how far I've come...

Now and then I think of when we were together
Like when you said you felt so happy you could die
Told myself that you were right for me
But felt so lonely in your company
But that was love and it's an ache I still remember

You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness
Like resignation to the end
Always the end
So when we found that we could not make sense
Well you said that we would still be friends
But I'll admit that I was glad that it was over

But you didn't have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened
And that we were nothing
And I don't even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger
And that feels so rough
You didn't have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records
And then change your number
I guess that I don't need that though
Now you're just somebody that I used to know

Now and then I think of all the times you screwed me over
But had me believing it was always something that I'd done
And I don't wanna live that way
Reading into every word you say
You said that you could let it go
And I wouldn't catch you hung up on somebody that you used to know...

But you didn't have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened
And that we were nothing
And I don't even need your love
But you treat me like a stranger
And that feels so rough
You didn't have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records
And then change your number
I guess that I don't need that though
Now you're just somebody that I used to know

I used to know
That I used to know

Somebody...

NYE 2011

2012-01-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

I rang in the new year with my closest friends. We celebrated at the NYE in the Pearl event at Pure Space. Live music, DJ Yaz and about 1,200 people. A fantastic night :) Cheers to 2012!

Pulling John

2011-12-12T21:32:00.001-08:00

AMAZING MOVIE!!!
It's up there with The King of Kongs: Fistful of Quarters. I can't get over this movie! It's on Netflix. I love John Brzenk and am totally crushing on the Russian monster, Alexey Voevoda!! Who is now a bobsledder!??!

Another year older

2011-12-10T23:25:00.000-08:00

I turned 28!! Celebrated with food, wine, hula hooping and blues tunes at Vino Vixens. Fantastic night. I'm so thankful to have an amazing group of friends. They support me, love me and help me with decisions and most importantly, we know how to have a damn good time!

Damn Paparazzi

2011-12-07T18:06:00.000-08:00

Check it out.

Laughing makes the world go round

2011-12-02T16:44:00.000-08:00

Last night I performed at the open mic night at The Space. I can't believe how much I've missed doing stand-up... I maybe addicted again.
Today, I feel invincible.

My two cents on the occupy movement

2011-11-19T18:02:00.000-08:00

The real fight of the Occupy movement: consumerism. I can’t afford cable but I do have the internet, my retail addiction is fed at second hand stores only, I don’t have money invested in the stocks (probably because I have no idea what “the stocks” are). I ride my bike and use public transportation to save money on gas, do my little part in helping pollution and I don’t have to experience any road rage. I have a job but I also have student loans and a car debt. Thankfully I do not have a credit card or a medical condition to drain my bank account. I’m approaching thirty, have worked since I was 14 yrs old and was unemployed for 5 months. It was the most depressing 5 months of my life.

My degree isn’t complete but I’m a good worker – generally in the auto business or office work. But I would work retail or the food/beverage industry as long as I was making at least as much as my minimum wage. I applied to over 70 jobs in 5 months, attended two job fairs and joined the Oregon Unemployment Website in hopes to finding a job ASAP. I went on 13 interviews before I landed my job.

Please stop saying to the occupiers, shut up and just get a job. Some of these people legitimately cannot get a job worthy of their skills, education, passion and experience. I don’t believe anyone should settle for just any ol’ job. People have the right to dream, to strive for happiness and obtain it. Now, I don’t know who to blame for these legitimate people not being able to get jobs, I just know it’s not them. There is a crisis happening and regardless if you think these occupiers are just hypocrites and fucking hipsters that are doing this for attention as they wear their GAP clothes, use their iPhones and drink Starbucks – I believe the outcry is being lost. There should not be billionaires. There should not be CEOs of large companies awarding themselves thousands, millions in bonuses when they charge ridiculous prices for electricity and communication (cable, media, etc) while people lose their homes, can’t find work with health benefits and go on food assistance.

I do not have any suggestions on how to fix this problem. It breaks my heart though that this is happening in my life and I don’t have the time and energy to do my part with the occupiers. I acknowledge a percentage of people that maybe homeless, mentally ill, addicts and violent that are turning these protests into civil disturbances. I acknowledge the hypocrisy of the people demanding big corporations to not bleed America dry – and they post this on Facebook while using their AT&T connection and iPhones and wear GAP, Nike and J.Crew – my message is simple – there should be no millionaires in a country where people are starving. There should be no millionaire CEOS in a company that cuts employees solely to keep their paycheck in the six to seven figures.

Accountability should be the message. The fucking hipsters should get a job – as long as they don’t settle for flipping burgers or pumping gas. Their BA, BS or master degrees give them that right. Perhaps the millionaires will use that card to argue where they're at and justify their paycheck. So be it. My response – psychopaths live amongst us, and they don’t all feed their social inabilities with murder. They do it by living without empathy.

Accountability. Yes, the occupiers maybe loud, unsightly, annoying, costing thousands in police overtime, littering and etc. But can we all be accountable; as viewers – can we all accept that something is happening? A social movement, an outcry … I’m just so thankful I have a job. I’m so thankful that my health benefits will kick in soon. I’m so thankful that I didn’t lose my car, my sanity, or my hope by being unemployed for five months. Who knows what I would have done if this Occupy Movement would have happened this summer when I was desperate.

Occupy Portland Eviction?

2011-11-13T08:59:00.000-08:00

Big announcement from Mayor Adams was the Occupiers would be evicted Sunday November 13th at 12:01am. The police and media presence was saturating the streets much earlier than midnight last night. After the Fada Salon event and a late happy hour at Portland City Grill, I drove home through the Occupy Portland site. Happy to report it was very peaceful.

Ben's Last Deployment Dinner

2011-11-01T23:55:00.000-07:00

The fam met up to celebrate Ben's last deployment as a Marine happening here shortly. We had some sushi at Bara Sushi House, our favorite SE Portland sushi restaurant.

Halloween

2011-10-29T23:33:00.000-07:00

Arthur's apartment then a warehouse party. I dressed as Silk Spectre this year.

Freak Boutique

2011-10-28T23:21:00.000-07:00

I worked a promo for Neuro Energy drinks at this year's Freak Boutique at the Wonder Ballroom.

More ink

2011-10-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Thank-you Jesse Olmsted for my new ink. He works at Voodoo Tattoo - soon to be his own shop, and the name change will be Hawthorne Ink.

Work in progress...

Quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Jake Oken-Berg & Naomi Hooley!

2011-10-15T23:30:00.000-07:00

CD Release Concert, ya'll!!! Wow - must say it was a rush of nostalgia for this lady - Jake singing, Maggie singing, meeting new talent (Naomi) working backstage again...

The Aladdin hosted, the music was amazing; I did hair and make-up and was honored to be be involved with this amazing, talented group.

Me, Jon & Mandals.

Naomi.

Making a dvd.

Maggie.

Debra Arlyn.

Jake.

Public transportation

2011-10-11T23:33:00.000-07:00

The Portland metro area, by far, has some of the easiest and time efficient ways to get around town but due to all the flipping construction in SE/SW area - What a crock!

I live just under 4 miles from my work, but have to make one transfer (not a big deal)... how long does it take me? AN HOUR!! A flipping hour to take a bus one way, connect to the street car and be dropped off in front of my building.

And please don't get me started on my commute back home...

Unemployment...

2011-10-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

...Can kiss my ass!! I got me a job :) I'm so excited to work for OHSU's Center for Health and Healing in the digestive health center as a PAS Specialist. I'm going to learn so much! I'll be a fish outta water, but I'm thrilled.

Today has been a good day.

PFW 2011

2011-10-07T23:54:00.000-07:00

What a night! Portland Fashion Week is wrapping up at Vigor Industrial Shipyard. Designers: Amai Unmei, Stephanie D. Couture, Ms. Wood, Collier and Seth Aaron showed their Spring/Summer 2012 collections.

Isaac Hers Presents: CON EL SOL Fashion Show

2011-10-06T23:58:00.000-07:00

Fantastic Isaac Hers designer, Barbara Seipp, and Jillian Rabe LLC do it again.

I was behind the bar, many friends were on the catwalk - all around goodnight. AAAAAANNNNDDD it was First Thursday.

Behind the scenes: Jillian and Barbara pre-production.

Prima team working on Killer.

Another practice walk before the show.

Me, stepping out from behind the bar for a photo opp with Megan - production staff and amazing woman and friend.

Killer killin' it!!

Arthur's Bday bash

2011-10-01T23:48:00.000-07:00

Celebrating my No. 1's bday at CC Slaughters. Happy Birthday Arthur - you've been my voice of reason, comfort and support system for longer than I want to admit. Mu-ah!!!

The Birthday Boy!

The club was packed.

Jeff, not wanting to look like he's a straighty /aka/ my boyfriend.

I love Jeff.

Happy "24th" Birthday, Elliott

2011-09-17T23:58:00.000-07:00

I love you, Elliott!! Happy "24th" Birthday, sir. You don't look a day over 20 (even if we are from the same graduating class...). Elliott and Christian hosted a fiesta at their casa.

Elliott & Christian.

Bust a move

2011-09-17T23:11:00.000-07:00

Another karaoke night at Gypsy's. Kaleena on the mic and Jed with the dance moves...

LMFAO & Ke$ha

2011-09-11T23:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight at the Rose Garden!!! Thank you 95.5 for the tickets - it was a great show.

LMFAO sincerely rock the house to no end!! Ke$ha has all the flare and great choreography but the quality of songs and lyrics blows. I left early to join my friends at karaoke night.

Getting my grunge/trash look on...

Me with my girl Emily

Thank-you Nic at 95.5 for the tickets!!

The girls: Emily, Joanna, Kaleena and me

LMFAO!!

Ke$ha

Going to the chapel...

2011-09-10T23:45:00.000-07:00

... and Audrey and Graham tied the knot in a beautiful backyard ceremony. I'll upload professional pics once they are ready.

G-Limos Wine Tasting

2011-09-08T20:27:00.000-07:00

G-Limos pimped Maggie and I around all day. We got our drink on, our sight-seeing on and had fun doing it.

Being picked up in Sherwood, Or.

First Stop: Duck Pond Cellars

Second Stop: Mia Sonatina

Third Stop: Cana's Feast Winery

Collin's Beach on Sauvie's Island

2011-09-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

... is clothing optional. I keep my suit on always. Fun day with my besties. It hit 96 degrees!! That's insane hot for Portland, but if you know the Rose City, that means it was GORGEOUS!!

Surprisingly painful

2011-09-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

All the mistakes and broken promises are just memories now, but seeing Serena, the only puppy I've ever owned, who has been kept from me for nearly a year and a half is now the profile picture of my ex's current girlfriend.

Dagger.

Of all the horrible things that took place in that relationship which painfully gutted me to my core, losing my rights to Rena have been the hardest to cope with. I've missed out on her maturing, becoming a grown-up dog, her companionship and so many special, quirky moments by not having her in my life.

I hope Rena knows, on some level, that her momma misses her so, so much and I treasure every memory I have of her.

"Sometimes it lasts in love, sometimes it hurts instead."

Prep...

2011-09-03T14:28:00.001-07:00

... for Audrey's bachelorette party tonight where we're starting at the Hotel Monaco, hitting the 8:30pm show at Darcelle's and ending the night with some karaoke at the Boiler Room!!

I've made 80 lime Jell-o/vodka shots...

Reactions to "The Human Centipede (First Sequence)"

2011-09-02T16:16:00.000-07:00

I am not a horror film fan so I don't know what inspired Katie and I to sit down and watch this movie this morning... here's some footage of our reactions to the horrifying film.

First Thursday...

2011-09-01T23:11:00.000-07:00

...at The Space.

Canon Power Shot ELPH 300HS

2011-09-01T13:42:00.001-07:00

Hell yes! Bought myself a new camera - first time in over 6 years!! This thing is sweet...

One Act

2011-08-29T23:27:00.001-07:00

I'm going to write it, working title "Why I Don't Have a Boyfriend" and it'll be about all my hilarious adventures in the dating world. The absolute cockamamie, absurd lines to the deprecating and slight heartache I've been through for about 2 years.

Minimal set, cast of three - me narrating while female plays me and male plays various dudes.

I'll keep you posted, if I ever get it to stage.

Looking for work in Oregon

2011-08-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

Oy vey.
I've applied for over seventy jobs in the Portland area since May. Seventy!
I've had three interviews.

I'm a positive person but I'm starting to get worried. I'm a good worker - I care, I'm dependable, willing and want to learn, get along with everyone, a team player, a leader, delivers under pressure and stays clear minded during chaos - I'm the whole flippin' package but because my degree isn't finished or I'm over qualified, I'm still looking.

I'm going for a bike ride, gonna grab a ridiculously oversized cup of coffee and focus on the good things in my life.

Anti-this feeling, please

2011-08-23T00:23:00.000-07:00

I hate being responsible for someone's unhappiness. When I do, Neil Sedaka runs through my mind and I find myself just saying "I'm sorry."

I've been spending weeks getting to know Milk Toast; cliff notes - he's ideal. Wits, intelligence, looks, job, dog, my friends love him, his friends are awesome but after weeks of all this general warm-feelings, fun and laughs; I feel it's reached its peak. My honesty in explaining this has burned him and me.

Text messages that make me feel like shit? Check.
Unfriending/Unfollowing me now? Check.

What am I to do? I question what's wrong with me - is the previous man (or men) playing a role in me being sorta fucked up and not being able to find a connection with Milk Toast? Is some imaginary, Hollywood x-factor that romantic comedies, Rene Zellweger, Julia Roberts and too many Alesia Holliday and Elisabeth Kyle books perma-fucked with me being able to recognize, appreciate and keep a good man? I don't know.

I resist the urge to text him or call him. I need a few days, some respectful breathing space otherwise I'll find myself apologizing uncontrollably, and for what, exactly? I'm past the point of believing I have a prince charming or a soul mate out there in the world. I want someone I can connect with - and I can't really detail that any further! There's no check list or requirements other than that; I need to feel that connection.

I'm very anti-feeling the way I'm feeling tonight. I'm questioning who I am because I made a decision for me, based solely on selfish reasons - my satisfaction - and I'm feeling guilty. I was feeling equally as awful knowing this relationship was going nowhere and it came to a point where I had to tell him. I had too!

I do like and care for Milk Toast. Never, ever do I want to hurt someone, especially someone I've grown so fond of. But rejection hurts. I'm well aware of the consequence of being on the receiving side of the "no thank you". That's why I'm truly sorry it didn't work out in both our favors.

What kind of fuckery is this?

2011-08-19T22:53:00.000-07:00

She just sings everything I think, lately...

Nobody stands in between me and my man, it's me
And Mr Jones (Me and Mr Jones)

What kind of fuckery is this?
You made me miss the Slick Rick gig (oh Slick Rick)
You thought I didn't love you when I did (when I did)
Can't believe you played me out like that (Ahhh)

No you ain't worth guest list
Plus one of all them girls you kiss (all them girls)
You can't keep lying to yourself like this (to yourself)
Can't believe you played yourself (out) like this

Rulers one thing but come Brixton
Nobody stands in between me and my man
'Cause it's me and Mr Jones (Me and Mr Jones)

What kind of fuckery are we?
Nowadays you don't mean dick to me (dick to me)
I might let you make it up to me (make it up)
Who's playing Saturday?

What kind of fuckery are you?
Side from Ray-Ray you're my best black Jew
But I could swear that we were through (we were through)
I still want to wonder 'bout the things you do

Mr Destiny 9 and 14
Nobody stands in between me and my man
'Cause it's Me and Mr JOnes (Me and Mr Jones)

It's the Final Count Down!!

2011-08-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

Hey-o!! It was my last day of CLINICALS!! It rocked my socks off. Here's some pics and footage of this fun day.

(Adrienne, Kim & me)

(Adrienne & Kim)

(Nicole & me)

New to me

2011-08-10T23:00:00.000-07:00

Got myself a classical guitar today. Thank you Craig's List :) It's nice rekindling a flame without ripping up my finger tips. Not sure what year, but it's a Conn Classical.

My Rena-bot

2011-08-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday baby-girl.

Sober no more

2011-08-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Hallelujah!!! Breaking Julysober at Hobo's was fantastic. My first drink; a Moroccan Coffee after a long day doing clinicals... Mmmm.

Portland Timbers

2011-07-31T12:35:00.001-07:00

I went to the game last night with some of my family - sister Katie, her boyfriend, my Dad and Step mom; my uncles John and Bill and their wives Theresa and Linda. Also my niece Erin came. Awesome night. Timbers tied with Toronto 2 - 2.

"This is a football game, not a photo opp." ~ my father.

Katie, Dad, Uncle John

Inked

2011-07-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting some ink, and I knew I wanted some sort of representation of peace and love - all that good stuff that we don't have enough of on this planet. So, I took a stroll down Hawthorne, popped into my local and fabulous tattoo shop, Voodoo Tattoos and Piercings, and had Rikk give me this sweet treat - a dove. She has her heart coming out of her chest and it has a peace sign on it. Next week he'll do the touch ups and add some red highlights to the heart, possibly some blue to the dove herself.

This fucker burned and took 2.5hrs but I'll go back and see Rikk for my next tat because he is awesome!!

It's located on my left side, on my lower back. At an angle, where the tail of the bird is towards my center, lower back (the konji is my 'tramp stamp') while the dove's head is on my ribs.

For the record...

2011-07-23T19:52:00.002-07:00

I'm over it. 'It' being me feeding into this idea that because I felt something, and he said wonderful, poetic, lovely words and made me feel special, connected and that who I was, me, was more than enough - reality check!! He was total bullshit; he got off on my immediate reaction, he got off on the chase and had zero plan of catching me and making an 'us' - I feed into this idea that I should hold out because maybe, just maybe he'll wake up and realize that we really did have a connection. That he didn't give us enough time.

False.

I'm over it. You did a shitty thing. You sort of apologized, I mean, you said 'I'm sorry' but most importantly, you continued to be shitty to me. I have emails and texts that are romantic and promising and all these things that made me believe in love again, and you bailed on me. You toyed with me months ago and I need to stop making excuses for your behavior because it's been holding me back.

I don't want to carry this baggage any longer. I've unfriended you, deleted the text messages, sent all those emails to the trash - I want to find the version of you that made me happy, but in an actual honest man that has pure intentions with me; not one that plays the part.

I hate that this is another experience that has fucked with my self esteem, fucked with my value system and made me even more awkward with intimacy. I'm done stumbling with Seattle Matt. Regardless of your intentions, no matter how convincing you will try to be to me or yourself, it was shitty.

I'm going to let it go and live in the present. Only good things can come of me not thinking "what if..." any longer.

Apple Bottoms glasses

2011-07-23T02:16:00.000-07:00

Yup. I've been wearing black framed glasses since I was 15 years old. I dig on the nifty nerdy look but I thought it was time for a switch. Check out my plum colored frames, made by Apple Bottoms! Still nerdy, just with a little more flava.

Jon Schneibel

2011-07-21T17:20:00.000-07:00

July 6th, 1983 - July 20th, 2011.

Not fair. Jonny at a young age proved he was going to be a disciplined athlete; this catapulted his dedication in weight lifting and fitness making him a super star in the gym. A genius in the classroom and always a class act. He was of superior quality - a rare man of my generation. Jon got along with everyone, was thoughtful, motivating and quick to suggest a helpful remedy to a work out, diet or even a homework question. I shared in your excitement and felt pride that my friend was accepted into Linfield's nursing program. You were going to get out of the bartending gig and finally do what you were meant to do Jon - help people.

We met in 6th grade, you were my first kiss and my date to my first dance. Getting the phone call this morning that you tragically died in front of Heather (your fiance), the wind was knocked out of me. My heart goes out to Heather, your family, (Sue, Ed and Luke), and to the many, many, many people who love you, Jon. We were robbed. We didn't get enough time with you.

You will not fade, my friend. We won't let you.
xoxo

Summer before 8th grade.

Jon with his fiance, Heather

Moving... moved

2011-07-18T20:23:00.001-07:00

Ugh. What a freaking weekend. I moved into my new apartment with my sister. Shit is everywhere, still need to clean my old place and return the keys by Wednesday; school started today (and that schedule is 7:30am to 4pm Mon-Fri!!!). I'm beat kids.

And I can't find my phone chargers... rats.

our living room filled with boxes...

my bedroom not yet unpacked and driving me crazy...

Beach Theme Birthday Party

2011-07-10T23:49:00.000-07:00

HEY-O!! My boy Rikee shared his birthday with Rob over the weekend at Barrel Room. They had a beach theme - snow cones, Mark Mac spinning the ones and twos, swimsuits and board shorts.

me with Rikee

me with Rob

me with my girl Cecily

The Rock Stars group

Photographer: Robert John

Julysober

2011-07-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

I was inspired by a friend's commitment to sobering up for the month of June. She hadn't been feeling at her best, was not happy with her job situation, money situation and wanted to change and BAM!! JUNESOBER. She was successful, saved money, got healthy and feels great.

I AM PARTICIPATING IN JULYSOBER!! It's day nine of not having any alcohol. It's not hard, but definitely a challenge when at the bar, or dinner (everyone drinks wine). I've always been a one or two drink girl but since the loss of my job and free time, I've found myself getting to be a four, five drink girl.

I have been presented with less than supportive comments from friends, but ultimately they can't say anything negative about me wanting to stop drinking for 30 days.

I'm looking forward to saving some cash, getting healthier (even if I don't really notice it) and simply committing to something. I've been feeling a bit restless for two months (being jobless). I'll keep you kids posted.

Celebrating America's Independence

2011-07-04T23:49:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th kiddies!! I spent the afternoon at the Oregon Zoo. Perfect weather - cannot stress this enough. If you are familiar with the Portland area, you know we have (generally) 10 months of cloudiness and rain and then two amazing warm, breezy, still green and gorgeous summer months... and I believe it started today!!

After the Zoo, I did a little firework watching in Colin's neighborhood. It's amazing how regular, shop at Albertson's, live in a cul-da-sac, sleeps in on the weekends folks turn into eardrum blasting, pyromania freaks, fireworks (aka bombs) fiends one night a year!! I love the light show but the medic in me gets super edgy when I see little kids so close to explosives.

breaking Junesober

2011-07-01T23:24:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Alysha's month of sobriety... by breaking it.
Porch party, hooping, strangers becoming friends and beer pong. I love my friends.

Femme Fatale Tour

2011-06-29T13:38:00.001-07:00

I saw Britney Spears and Nicki Minaj last night at The Rose Garden. Amazing show.

I dressed as White Trash Britney, Becca went as VMA Slave For You Britney.

Ash went as Fedora Britney

This is how you open a concert!

Turn the volume down - it's live and all bass. Jump to 1 min

PDX Plankers

2011-06-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

After an evening of dancing to disco, (yes, I attended a Disco & Reggae party at East Chinatown Lounge), a couple of friends and I decided to get some planks in. Enjoy.
All taken in down town Portland, just outside of the Chinatown district.

me, garbage planking

Megan, taxi planking.

Megan and I planking the streets while the Portland cops arrest a bad guy

Megan, Matrix plank

me with a glorious window as a backdrop

Disco-Reggae party

2011-06-25T23:58:00.000-07:00

Yes kids, another costume party with a fantastic theme. We hit up East Chinatown Lounge for the musical enjoyment of 70's Disco meshed with reggae coolness. Between sweating and smoke breaks, collectively we decided to bring the party out into the streets.

And this is how sidewalk parties were born...

Mickey Avalon

2011-06-23T23:59:00.000-07:00

Mickey Avalon skanked up Dante's - and it was awesome!! This was my first time seeing Mickey live. He has a crazy following and just as crazy background: he used to walk (ahem, work) the streets of Hollywood Blvd.

Turn the volume down before you watch the video - it's live, it's loud and it's all bass.

Words to live by

2011-06-23T00:29:00.000-07:00

I look at this and I know I should do the following:

1. Stop giving more credit to people who have not earned it. Romanticizing their qualities or character does not triumph their actions. If they do shitty things, they are shitty.

2. Over analyzing my future - it hasn't happened yet so stop sweatin' it.

3. Tell the people I appreciate how much they matter... more often.

4. Stop caring that I sleep in. Most of my life I was up early, working a lot and thinking that gave me value. Wrong. How I treat people, how I chose to be more patient and learn gives me value. Not how many hours I spend working or how many jobs and tasks I juggle. That just makes me burnt out.

5. To stop fighting the urge to sabotage something cool just because it hasn't worked out in a long, long time. Be reasonable. Be logical. Not all men lie. Give 'em a chance to screw up, instead of labeling them as a screw up.

Being epic has a lot more to do than just your profession. It is a balancing act. To do epic shit, one must be epic. A champion. Be your own hero. This quote makes me want to be a better me. Period.

Do
Epic
Shit.

Wish list

2011-06-21T11:09:00.001-07:00

I want to take this camping so bad!! Pre-orders in August, and it costs roughly $68 plus shipping.

Night Shift

2011-06-17T06:11:00.000-07:00

It's just after 5:30am, I put in 8hrs and I'm walking to my car... omg, it's dawn. The life of an extra...

www.fogandsmog.com

2011-06-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

Fit2Print

2011-06-04T23:03:00.000-07:00

The Art Institute of Portland had a show, Fit2Print. Fabulous fundraiser! I love seeing my city produce so much talent.

Captain Morgan

2011-06-02T23:09:00.000-07:00

Another good night at Barrel Room.

I'm a first follower, not a leader

2011-05-30T13:36:00.001-07:00

Tara and Shawn get married

2011-05-28T23:58:00.000-07:00

A wonderful wedding - beautiful bride, handsome groom and fantastic reception. Congrats you two!! No luck needs to be wished here - you two are the real deal. xoxo

Isaac Hers Fall 2011-Goldstruck

2011-05-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

Fabulous evening!! I'm all about supporting local talent and this show was a blast. Thank you to Jillian Rabe, Killer walked in the show, love seeing my girl in action - ran into a million friends - great night all around.

Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey

2011-05-20T23:58:00.000-07:00

A super fun promotion at Barrel Room with one of my absolute favorite partners, Raquel.

Fit Test

2011-05-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

Day one of Insanity. I did my fit test - here are my results:
Switch Kicks: 108
Power Jacks: 29
Power Knee: 95
Power Jumps: 25
Globe Jumps: 9
Suicide Jumps: 5
Push-Up Jacks: 11
Plank/Obliques: 41

One foot in front of the other

2011-05-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

I'm at day 20 of being unemployed. Yes, that's right. This lady who's been working since she was 14 years old has been filling out unemployment claims, buried in applications and confused on how to get approved to continue school while claiming, along with investigating other schooling programs (LPN, CNA, Surgical Tech...), all on top of job searching, like a mad woman and waiting to hear if I get food stamp assistance - it has been a crazy three weeks!!

After the initial shock wore off that I was no longer working in the car business, (and the manner in which I was dismissed), I've been able to look at my situation as an opportunity to dive into the profession I want - health care.

Although many things have drastically changed, I am a survivor. I've been through trying times (I tried to be an actor once). I am a worker; I value my independence and get pride out of earning my own paycheck. Things will turn around.

I appreciate so much the amazing support and kind words from my friends these past three weeks. You all know how much of my character is attributed to how hard working I am, and this situation has been very stressful for me. Thank you for your patience and helping me through the online applications, advice and assistance with the different avenues to pursue for help.

Prom 2011!!

2011-05-14T23:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you Mt. Tabor Theater for another successful Prom.

Kentucky Derby

2011-05-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Rontoms hosted a benefit for OA - costume party for the viewing of the Kentucky Derby. So much fun :)

Cinco de Mayo 2011

2011-05-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!! Another great Jose Cuervo promotion at the Barrel Room with the most fun girl, Natasha. Z100 was there spinning, the tent and the house was packed; Keegan Smith was live - what a fun night.

When We Two Parted

2011-05-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

When we two parted
In silence and tears,
Half broken-hearted
To sever for years,
Pale grew thy cheek and cold,
Colder they kiss;
Truly that hour foretold
Sorrow to this.

The dew of the morning
Sunk chill on my brow-
It felt like the warning
Of what I feel now.
Thy vows are all broken,
And light is thy fame;
I hear thy name spoken,
And share in its shame.

They name thee before me,
A knell to mine ear;
A shudder comes o'er me-
Why wert thou so dear?
They know not I knew thee,
Who knew thee too well:-
Long, long shall I rue thee,
Too deeply to tell.

In secret we met-
In silence I grieve,
That thy heart could forget,
Thy spirit deceive.
If I should meet thee
After long years,
How should I greet thee?-
With silence and tears.

~George Gordon (Lord Byron)

Love Letters of Great Men: Vol. 1

2011-05-02T01:28:00.000-07:00

I have something stupid and ridiculous to tell you. I am foolishly writing to you instead of having told you this, I do not know why, when returning from that walk.

Tonight I shall be annoyed at having done so. You will laugh in my face, will take me for a maker of phrases in all my relations with you hitherto. You will show me the door and you will think I am lying.

I am in love with you. I have been thus since the first day I called on you.

~Alfred de Musset
1833

The Head and The Heart

2011-05-01T23:59:00.000-07:00

Wanna hear some freaking amazing indie-rock?? The kind with killer soulful vocals, story-telling lyrics highlighted with wicked-awesome musical talent??? Well check out The Head and The Heart!! Here's some footage I shot at the Wonder Ballroom tonight. Money well spent. So talented. I'm so thrilled I was able to see them live.

End of an era

2011-04-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

June 10th, 2003 to April 26th, 2011.
No more 122nd Way for me.

Kinhnarath Wedding Reception

2011-04-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

Ok kiddies - this is how the old gang does it. We may not go big, but we definitely go loud (and grossly inappropriate). Amjad and Amanda got married a few months ago in a Muslim ceremony with only family present. Saturday night was just a party where the friends could be merry.
Congratulations to the happy couple. It is so wonderful witnessing their love.

Unfortunate Coincidence

2011-04-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

By the time you swear you're his,
Shivering and sighing,
And he vows his passion is
Infinite, undying -
Lady, make a note of this:
One of you is lying.

~Dorothy Parker

Stumbling in Seattle

2011-04-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend in Seattle to visit a friend. A test run perhaps is more accurate then visit. Yes, a 'test run' to see if said friendship could weather a long distance relationship. Driving up I was confident that this would be an exciting weekend with a fantastic man and things would probably lean towards 'Hell yes, lets do this!' I was also keeping the practical check list in my brain - the reasons why I should stay grounded, maybe even pessimistic, just to protect myself going in.

I should have focused more on the reality vs. the excitement; the drive home Sunday would have ached less.

After a hellish 4 plus hours in the car I arrive in Seattle Friday evening. MB is still working, (MB is the fantastic man), so I catch a drink with Jake and Maggie; MB meets up with us. The night is spent laughing, bar hopping, being unable to ignore the intense electricity between the two of us and being absolutely enamored by each other. Asking those questions, "What would it look like if we were official?", "How'd it even work?" and admitting that the only dilemma in our situation is the distance. If we were in the same city, without a doubt we'd be together (and oh, what a couple we'd be). The night ended in a flurry of emotions, heightened by intoxication; both booze and romantically fueled.

Saturday was a lazy day and that triggered conversation. This is when reality sunk in and I realized I was silly to make such a rash assumption. His fears and doubts made me insecure and once believing our differences made us wonderfully dynamic and interesting, were now excuses and listed on the 'con' side of the "should we or shouldn't we" list in my mind.

I do this almost automatically; an ironic quintessential source of emotional protection but it's so damn stupid. I spent the remainder of this visit (yes, it's back to being a visit), enjoying the company of this brilliant, beautiful man but telling myself this is all that it can be. No matter what I want it to be - I need to step back otherwise I'm going to make a fool of myself. Being hurt in private is so much easier to manage then saying too much or exposing too much of yourself and dealing with the rejection/disappointment.

The drive home was dreadful. Cracked Rear View Mirror, Extreme and other various 90's artists being the soundtrack home didn't help much either.

Alas, I'm back in Portland... back to the real world. Or the new real world, right? Time to get back into my routine and be hopeful that whatever magic or romance we were creating these past weeks continues; but that would require one of us trying, reaching out and taking a chance. You don't know that aspect of being a grown-up when you're young; the being hurt and afraid to obtain togetherness. Being afraid of trying something you want. Not something you don't - something you know would be significant.

"For all sad words of tongue and pen, the saddest are those 'It might have been.'"
- John Greenleaf Whittier

Twisted Tea!!

2011-03-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

Alright - it's here! I'm excited about Twisted Tea, simply because it really does taste delicious.
Rachel and I hit up The P Club, formerly the Portsmouth Pizza & Pub. Easy going Timbers crowd.

Sophie: Post surgery

2011-03-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

The bandage came off today and you can't even tell anything was ever wrong. I'm thankful this ordeal is over!!

Cuervo promotion!!!

2011-03-18T23:59:00.000-07:00

Fun, fun, fun!! Raquel and I hit two bars in two hours - I love these types of promotions. We just roll in, create a party atmosphere and roll out.
We started at Cheerful Bullpen and ended at Cheerful Tortoise.

Although the bar crowd was on recovery-mode from St. Patrick's Day, we still managed to meet some partying peeps.

St. Patrick's Day!!

2011-03-17T23:59:00.000-07:00

Is there a bigger and better word than "fun"? If so - INSERT HERE!!!
Samantha and I landed the best accounts in Portland to work; Guinness promotions at Kells and Paddy's. We worked the VIP tent at Kells and the tent at Paddy's.

Can't wait till next year!!

Sophie's midnight vet visit

2011-03-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

Sophie's had a cyst on her left hind paw since October 2010. It's never seemed to bother her or cause her any annoyance or pain. Last night after studying at the computer, prepping for finals week, I call it a night around 10pm and discover Sophie has retreated to the bedroom where she has attempted to GNAW OFF SAID CYST!! Blood covering the carpet, her blanket, my blanket...

Take her into VCA SE Animal Hospital where they admit her for cyst removal surgery and stitches for her self-inflected wounds. All is well. She only lost a very small portion of her pad and the cyst was removed 100%.

(Before)

(Drive home)

Quote of the night

2011-03-07T00:48:00.000-08:00

"Bragging rights are all that I have!! I'm not a professional athlete or a whore so I can't count points or fucks."
~(drunk) Hayley Eiden

I think that needs to go on a plaque.

Clackamas Town Center turns 30!!

2011-03-05T19:48:00.000-08:00

What a fun promo today - have it again tomorrow. Clackamas Town Center turned 30 this weekend. Give aways, prize wheels, venders and arts and crafts!!

Pomegrante Bark

2011-02-28T17:32:00.000-08:00

Haven't tried this - yet. I'll update with pics once I have the time to try it.

Pomegranate Bark
Makes about 50 small bunches

3 pomegranates
1 16 oz. package dark chocolate morsels (I used Ghirardelli’s 60% cacao)
Cooking thermometer (optional)

Remove seeds from pomegranate into a bowl or dish. When performing this task, make sure not to wear anything that you wouldn’t want to be stained. De-seeding pomegranates can be a messy process! Or, wear an apron. That is, if you don’t mind your apron possibly becoming stained!

When all of your pomegranate seeds are out, lay wax paper on a flat surface. Using your fingers or a spoon, separate the seeds into small bunches of 5-10 on the wax paper to dry.*

Melt the chocolate! To do this, you will either need a double-burner or can easily create one by placing a stainless steel bowl over top a pan of boiling water. To temper your choco so it’s perfect-o, watch this how-to YouTube video! I do not own a cooking thermometer, which is why I listed it as an optional accessory. I just heated the chocolate until it melted, and let it cool for a minute or so before spooning it over the seeds. It didn’t have the “perfect” shiny surface of a tempered chocolate, but it looked fine, and still tastes delicious to me!

Spoon the chocolate over your bunches, or if you’re feeling confident in your bowl of melted chocolate juggling skills, slowly drizzle the chocolate from the bowl!
Leave your chocolate covered seeds to dry at room temperature (around 60 – 70°F). Do NOT put them in the freezer! I’m not positive how refrigeration would work, but whatever you do, don’t freeze them! The chocolate will shrink and expand on the pomegranate seeds, causing the chocolate to crackle, and they won’t taste the same.
When the chocolate is completely dry, serve and enjoy!

*For a similar and quicker result, lay your pomegranate seeds covering a flat tray. Drizzle the melted chocolate over top! Once drizzled, use a spoon or spatula to smooth the chocolate over the seeds. Add an optional garnish of small white or colored sprinkles for added texture and visual pizazz. Once fully dry (I let mine sit overnight, at room temperature), break into bite-size chunks with a sharp utensil or separate them from the tray, and break them into bunches.

Stars on Ice

2011-02-26T23:50:00.000-08:00

Another fun, low-key promotion at The Rose Garden. Thanks Smuckers!!

Bearded-Hat!!

2011-02-24T12:37:00.001-08:00

Hell yes!! I ordered this item maybe two weeks ago and it just arrived. Thank you Danielle Lee of Poor Girl Couture. I got to pick the hat color(s) and beard color. Only $25!! ORDER YOURS TODAY!!

This 5 year old knows what's up

2011-02-23T18:53:00.001-08:00

If only all little girls felt this way, oh what a wonderful generation of strong, smart, confident women we would have!!!

ORA Valentine's Ball

2011-02-17T23:57:00.000-08:00

What a fantastic night!! Kaleena asked me to be her date to the ORA Foundation Valentine's Day Charity Dinner held at The Benson Hotel. Dinner, drinks and auction followed by sweating on the dance floor to the f^&%ing amazing DJ Yaz.

This makes me happy

2011-02-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

I'd love for a rocker boyfriend to sing this anthem to me... alas, just listening to it makes me 1) rock my ass off and 2) feel happy.
Happy Wednesday everyone.

Water Leak

2011-02-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

Note from management:
We have found a leak on this property. The water will be shut off between 8am and 5pm so ProDrain can fix the issue. We may need to enter your apartment during this process. Removal of sidewalks will happen, please be advised of the noise and mess this process will cause. Thanks to everyone for your help and understanding.

(That is my bedroom window.)

(I hope this doesn't create a sink hole and I slide into a muddy pit in my sleep.)

I'm suffering from PPMS

2011-02-11T07:53:00.001-08:00

I'm not the only one who has dating on the mind. Thanks Jennifer Willis for THIS awesome article in the Oregonian.

PPMS = Portland Passive Male Syndrome.

FML when it comes to A&P

2011-02-08T23:16:00.000-08:00

Epic fail. What? Failed - BIG TIME - my A&P midterm. Why do the teachers give you the grade at the beginning of class? I felt like shit through the entire lecture. Trying to do the math, adding up the required points needed to pass the class with a C - pathetic. Don't think it's possible.

It helps a little to know my friends that are nurses also failed A&P II. They graduated. They are now proud RNs working in hospitals and clinics.

It's just so damn devastating. It's so public too. Whenever you have a test everyone asks, "How'd you do??" And I have to respond, "Uh, I failed." Then they laugh, say yeah, right and then I have to prove it.

No, look at the freaking score (pass the scantron around) - then they make their "eek" face and mutter so sorry...

Next term will be two years I've been at school. TWO YEARS!! Still no degree, not even close. Granted, I switched majors, but the light at the end of this very long tunnel is just a speck of light. I'm feeling a bit lousy and want the weekend.

Super Bowl XLV

2011-02-06T20:49:00.001-08:00

Whew, am I glad this weekend is over!! I worked so much! I finished a Jack Daniels promotion at two bars in Vancouver, WA. Big Daddy's OT and Charlie's Bar & Grill.

I'm ready to do some reading for class tomorrow and get to bed early.

Posing with a Jack Daniels' fan at Big Daddy's OT.

Karlin and all her hotness, posing with a Jack Daniels' fan.

Those crazy Steelers' fans at Charlie's!!

Portland Seafood & Wine Festival

2011-02-05T23:13:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year AGAIN!! Wow, can't believe it, but it's my 3rd year bartending at this fun-tastic event.
Didn't take as many pictures as I would like but enjoyed myself thoroughly - caught up with old friends, made new friends and some cash. It was a good festival this year and can't wait till the next one.

Killer, prepping.

Me, goofing around.

Killer, goofing around.

Tag Team, back again.

Disillusions

2011-02-01T21:36:00.001-08:00

Hmmm, well... yes, going to blog about DATING!!!

I feel that I have been lucky to find attractive, funny men to spend an evening with as often as I want. The negative side; no one sticks. Nothing is clicking. A little before Thanksgiving, I thought I had met a man that was charming, smart and grounded enough to focus in on but he turned out to be somewhat of a liar. I got over that quickly, disappointed in myself that I wasn't able to identify his fraudulent tactics right away; none the less, I pressed on.

Lately, I've been agreeing to allow my girlfriends to introduce me to their single male friends. I am hesitant with this because if something goes sour or if I discover the guy's actually a creep, it can cause friction within the friendship. This latest guy is witty, sexy, quirky and appears to be available... but after two good dates and one smokin' hot make-out in his car, I'm having that suspicious feeling that he is a hit'em and quit'em type of fella. Granted he hasn't "hit'em" (er, me) but he has lost interest all ready. (Because when he asked if I wanted company at home, I told him it was too soon). It's been three days and not even so much a text message from him.

It's more frustrating then heart breaking!! It's this trend - presenting a false-self, that is making me seriously annoyed with dating. Almost as if I need a break from it. I really enjoy spending time with my friends but for the past year, it's been really sucky that I'm always the third or fifth wheel when going out.

I tell myself to keep an open mind (and heart) - that someone who's looking for someone like me is out there. It's all about timing or who you know or (fill in the blank). I'm in absolutely no rush to find myself a boyfriend. I've learned a lot about myself this past year. I've grown a lot and feel like I know what I want and won't settle for anyone less. This has also helped me present the best of myself to people. No more bending my rules to fit around someone elses' - lets just connect on common ground and discover how amazing similarities can be.

I guess I'm blogging because I'm feeling a little frustrated. I've had two midterms this week (and yes, it's only Tuesday), I'm sick and have a very busy weekend; working two big gigs (Portland Seafood and Wine Festival and Jack Daniels promotion for Super Bowl Sunday).

I have these moments sneak up on me - when I'm having things go really well or not so well and that's when I wish I had someone to lean on. Those are the times I wish I had a steady man in my life. Otherwise I'm quite content being single.

Yes, I have really wonderful and supportive girlfriends that hear my doubts and celebrate my victories... but there's just some things only a boyfriend can make better.

To have the sweet consistency of a great guy would be, well, great. I'm learning to trust again and I tell myself with these feelings of frustration do not let that turn into bitterness. I cannot allow what one man did to me ruin the potential for all men.

To sum up, I'm doing well, just maybe with the midterms and sickness I'm feeling lonely and wish I had some amazing guy to hang out with tonight, that would be there for me. But my dog Sophie, a pizza and Netflix will suffice.

Rumble at the Roseland 54

2011-01-22T23:23:00.000-08:00

Front row floor seats!! Need I say more?
Rumble at the Roseland 54.

Raul Bello vs. Alex Jordan (Round 1, Weight Div: 165)

Raul Bello vs. Alex Jordan (Round 2, Weigh Div: 165)

Andy Gilles vs. Ryan Harrington (Round 1, Weight Div: SHWT)

Jeremy Jones vs. Pat Ryan (Round 1, Weight Div: 175)

Emily Whitmire vs. Robin Woods (Round 1, Weight Div: 125)

Emily Whitmire vs. Robin Woods (Round 2, Weight Div: 125)

Emily Whitmire vs. Robin Woods (Round 3, Weight Div: 125)

Karaoke From Hell

2011-01-20T23:11:00.000-08:00

Tiger Bar has "Karaoke From Hell" - you get to sing with a live band and anything can happen!!
Here's John-Boy doing his version of Chris Isaak's Wicked Game. Kudos, John-Boy. Your voice is like butta.

Things that make me laugh

2011-01-20T23:07:00.000-08:00

In the rest room at Urban Studio for the Portlandia premier.

Q & A

2011-01-19T11:26:00.000-08:00

1. If you have pets, do you see them as merely animals or are they members of your family?
This is sad... I am down to one pet, the sweetest pup in the world, Sophie. Is she a part of the family? Without question.

2. If you could have a dream come true, what would it be?
For humanity, sanity, and peace to be the #1 priority to all people of this world.

3. What is one thing most hated by you?
Hate is such a strong word, but child abuse. In all forms, physical, sexual, emotional - it's just senseless to harm a child

4. What would you do with a billion dollars?
Payoff my car, buy a place, quit my job and just go to school and travel. I'd take care of those who (by MY standards) deserve it; certain family and friends will be taken care of. Donate a lot of cash to charity.

5. What helps pull you out of a bad mood?
Journaling, meditation/yoga, getting outside or walking Sophie.

6. Which is more blessed, loving someone or being loved by someone?
Ick question... but depends. If you love someone who's an asshole, it sucks. If you're loved by an asshole, it sucks.

7. What is your bedtime routine?
Brush teeth, turn on The Daily Show, set timer on tv and fall asleep.

8. If you are currently in a relationship, how did you meet your partner?
I am a single lady.

9. If you could watch a creative person in the act of the creative process, who would it be?
I consider myself relatively creative but seamstresses!!!! I'm so jealous! I wish I could create clothes.

10. What kind of books do you read?
Besides school text books - I read Grisham, Scottoline and Kyle.

11. How do you see yourself in ten years time?
Ten years older. I have learned that you can never predict the future, no matter how carefully you plan.

12. What's your fear?
Being in large bodies of water, never finding love and never learning to forgive.

13. Would you give up all junk food for the rest of your life for the opportunity to visit outer space?
Screw space, I want a Hershey's bar.

14. Would you rather be single and rich or married and poor?
If the relationship was great, the latter.

15. What's the first thing you do when you wake up?
Say good morning to Sophie.

16. If you could change one thing about your spouse/partner, what would it be?
N/A

17. If you could pick a new name for yourself, what would it be?
I wouldn't.

18. Have you ever been betrayed by a family member to the point it broke your heart? Did you get through it?
Betrayal? Yes. Heart broken? Yes. But therapy and wanting to truly stop the cycle of abuse in my family has made me pick up majority of the pieces and move on.

19. If you could only eat one thing for the next six months, what would it be?
Nachos.

Ok, I'm going to attempt to cook.

2011-01-17T16:21:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the fabulous Sarah Keiski's blog - showing me how easy it can be to be a bad-ass in the kitchen, along with juggling a bzillion things (career, husband, having amazing style, social life, etc). I decided to do something with my afternoon off (no class because of MLK Jr day).

Ok Sarah, I gave it a whirl!!

Turkey Stuffed Zucchini
4 medium zucchini
1 tsp butter
1/2 small onion, finely diced (I love onion, so I used the whole thing)
1 shallot, minced
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 oz white wine
1.25Lbs ground turkey
1 large egg white
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fat free chicken broth
2 TBSP seasoned bread crumbs (I used croutons)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chopped FRESH rosemary (really does make the difference)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp marjoram
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste
- Oven 400*F
- slice your zucchini long ways and scoop out centers, leaving the sides sturdy enough to hold the turkey you'll be stuffing. KEEP THE CENTERS!!
- in large saucepan melt butter over med-high heat and add onions, shallots and garlic; cook until onions are clear (2-4min)
- add the zucchini centers and a pinch of salt (2-4min)
- add wine, cook until it reduces
- add turkey and salt and pepper
- once turkey is cooked through, add paprika, rosemary, garlic powder, marjoram, dried basil and additional salt and pepper (if you so desire)
- let cook additional few minutes, mix well!!
- take turkey mix into a bowl and allow to cool (not all the way, but enough that it's not steaming)
- add egg white and Parmesan cheese - MIX WELL!!
- put chicken broth in bottom of pan, place zucchini in pan and stuff firmly!!
- sprinkle with breadcrumbs
- cover tightly with foil and bake for 35-40 min.

hollowed zucchini - they almost laid nicely in my pan.

Ahhh, wish you could smell this - it's amazing!!

stuffed and dusted with croutons.

Now, we wait...

Bam!! This has made my apartment smell AMAZING!!!!

Ok, it's absolutely delicious!! The zucchini is the perfect texture, which I'm guessing is thanks to the chicken broth. The turkey is perfectly seasoned, although my palette would enjoy more onions!! Now my cons, and I'm hoping a more experienced cook can give me some advice.
First, I want the breadcrumbs (or croutons) to be more crunchy. Maybe if I actually used breadcrumbs it would be. Also, cheese!! I am not a huge fan of cheese, but if something gooey-ooey and melty was on top of this bad boy, BAM!! A nice plain pasta would be complimentary.
Well, I hope I did 'ya proud Keiski!! Maybe I'll try again on my next day off from school.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2011-01-17T10:13:00.000-08:00

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
— Martin Luther King Jr.