March 8th, 2011

I got Peanut a new bed.  It’s pretty nice looking.  I was able to get it for less than 20 bucks too.  I like that working for Petsmart you get 15% off everything in the store, and that means that when things are on sale, like this dog bed, I can get a really great deal. 

I’m learning a lot of new things while working as a bather.  Nail trims are now easier, and I know how to scoop out the eyes on dogs so that they can see.  I also know how to shave the sanitary areas, and pads on paws.  I’m looking forward to going to grooming school in the future, but I hope I don’t go to the one this one girl just came back from.  Her teacher didn’t teach her anything, so now the salon manager has to teach her.  The whole point of the groom school is to learn how to do specific breed haircuts. 

March 7th, 2011

After reading the book, I am excited about the movie.  I'm sure it won't be exactly the same, but I'm excited.  And, here in the Baltimore area Ringling Brothers is coming to town March 30th - April 10th.  I am TOTALLY going to go to the circus.  I haven't been in forever.  It should be amazing.....

March 6th, 2011

I did a little make up shopping at Sephora online during the week last week.  I love their eye shadows.  So light and versatile.  Plus I was looking for a specific color that I just could not find.  It’s a very neutral shade and I like to wear that during my work day with a little eyeliner.  This way I have some make up on, but not so much that it requires a lot of work to put on in the morning before hand. 

So I picked out the All Wrapped Up Eye Collection for $34.  Six colors to choose from.  Yes it is Christmas and New Years related, but you can wear these colors all year round. 

The colors are from right to left:

Top: Present, The Gift, and Garland

Bottom: Mistletoe, Tinsel, Bauble

I have used the color Present, and it’s such a soft pink that you can barely see it.  I like it though.  The other colors I have not worn yet, but I may wear either Garland, Mistletoe, or Bauble to work today. 

March 4th, 2011

I bought a new nail polish. It's by a company called Dreams, and the color is called Diamond in the Rough.

Pretty cool.

You can get your own  here. 

March 3rd, 2011

So while working at Petsmart as a bather, I have learned quite a few things.  I'm now much better at trimming nails on dogs, as well as on Peanut.  Before I never knew what I was looking for and how often it should be done.  One of my favorite things now is the nail grinder.  Most dogs will tolerate the grinder better than the clippers, and it really makes nail trims quick and painless.  But some dogs do not like their feet touched at all, so nail grinding or not, it can be quite the struggle.

This is the one we use in the salon at Petsmart.  It is pretty awesome.  And I just ordered one for at home off amazon.com.  I can't wait to use it on Peanut.  Maybe once it arrives I will do a video demonstration on nail grinding.  It's pretty easy.

Dremel 7300-PT 4.8-Volt Pet Grooming Kit

March 2nd, 2011

Amazing book!  Amazing, amazing, amazing!  I literally just finished this book and it was just amazing. 

I love the story.  I was so enthralled by the book my dreams were about the circus.  Course the circus has evolved over the years, and my oh my it has been forever since I have been to one. 

Jacob has lost his family and his home.  Wandering one night he sees a train coming and hitches a ride.  That ride ends up being one of the most exciting times of his life.

In my opinion, you have to read this.  It has murder, an animal stampede, and what seems to be a look behind the scenes of what went on in the circuses of the 1930's.

February 23rd, 2011

Now that I have a new job, it takes me a little longer to finish a book.  But that's ok.  I would rather be working than not working, and I am very thankful that I only was unemployed for two months.  There are plenty of people who are still unemployed and looking for work.  I opted to change my career path from Radio to Pet Care.  As one of my fellow radio people said to me the other day, "Media is dying industry, it's better to get out now than later."  Kind of like it's better to have loved and lost, than not loved at all type deals.

Anyway.  I just finished reading After the Leaves Fall by Nicole Baart.  I thought it was a great story with a great message in it.  Yes, there is a message in this book.  Well, at least for me it seemed that way.

You follow Julia DeSmitt around her life.  First her mom rolls out on her, then her dad dies, and then she looses her best friend.  She decides she is going to change her life, and she goes to college where she meets a nice guy who happens to be the TA in one of her classes and after one night gets her pregnant.

I loved how this book ended.  How in the end despite all her trials in life, and view of herself, Julia realizes she is a new creation, which is what she always wanted.  Sure the path she took was a rough one, but she got what she wanted in the end.

So go a head and pick up this book.  I often found myself stuck to the story hours after I had put the book down to do whatever I had to do.

February 22nd, 2011

I love watching airplanes land!

February 21st, 2011

This picture is really blurry because I tried to take it while driving.  I know, I know!  I should not have been doing that.  But I was trying to capture the beautiful colors of the sunrise on my way to work one morning.  The fiery orange, and bright pink were just spectacular. 
Maybe next time I will get a better picture. 

February 18th, 2011

Sorry I have been so MIA. Mom was in the  hospital again, and then Peanut got sick. He got loose Monday, and possibly ate something that upset his stomach. Wed I had to take him to the vet because he was literally pooping blood, and that is not good or ok. And just to be clear on how serious it was, there was no feces, just blood. So he has a bunch of meds to take, and some special food to eat, but doesn't seem any worse for wear.  I am so glad he is feeling better!

Now onto the news of my new job.

I work at Petsmart as a bather, and when I am ready I will go to grooming school. Exciting huh?

February 12th, 2011

That picture above is of my mom.  I took this after she bumper her head really hard and got a concussion.  She also has MS.  She shuffles about, but still gets around OK.  Well last week she had a moderate stroke, and as of last night she is home.  She now will be switched to a no fat, low calorie diet (kind like the ones for diabetics) to prevent anymore strokes.  Fingers crossed she improves and doesn’t make anymore trips to the hospital anytime soon. 

February 4th, 2011

So this week has been a little crazy and I am glad I had set up a few blog posts ahead of time.  I have been doing orientation stuff for my new job, details coming soon.  I’m glad I didn’t spend a whole lot of time on unemployment and being unemployed.  Two months unemployed is enough to drive anyone crazy. 

Well, Thursday I was supposed to finish up my orientation and take two tests.  The manager I will be working under called out sick, so I didn’t have to go in.  Interestingly enough while at home, a bird flew into and got trapped on our screened in back porch. 

Here is the super short video of the bird flying free, and you can hear Peanut barking at it all the way out the door.  Ha ha.  The video is super short, like 3 seconds long.  Enjoy!!

February 3rd, 2011

Before Mark and I went to Mexico he was off on an adventure on the other side of the world.  He went to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.  He asked me one day if I wanted anything while he was over there. 
Yes, a jade bracelet!
A few years back…. well maybe more than a few… I was in an antique shop looking around for a tooth pick holder for mom.  All the ones they had, she already had.  I made my way over to the jewelry counter and saw a beautiful jade bangle bracelet.  The shop owner wanted $100 bucks for it.  I was broke.  I had literally just changed jobs from Cashier in a Grocery Store, to a Production Assistant in Radio.  There is literally no money working in radio, so I could not buy the item.  I kicked myself for from that day on.  It’s beauty and simplicity haunted me.
So while Mark was off in Asia, where Jade is abundant, he picked me up a beautiful jade bangle.

Jade can vary in price from $25 to $500.  I think it depends on the quality. Either way, it is a beautiful accessory, and I wear it everyday.  The Chinese wear them for luck and to keep them away from harm.  Out of all the jewelry I have, I think this bracelet will be the most worn.

February 2nd, 2011

Boyfriends, Burritos & an Ocean of Trouble. 

I like where this title is going.  That is the only reason I selected this book to read on my kindle, and sometimes that is all you need to read a book.

Bryn is 15 years old. Bryn also has a gorgeous boyfriend, who abuses her.  After a car accident that put Bryn in the hospital, where she has to explain the bruises to the doctor, nurse, cops, and (worse of all) her father, she finds a book in the lobby.  This book is special, she just doesn't realize it. 

This book is great for teenagers! Heck, I'm 30 and still really enjoyed it.  It took me back to when I was 15, awkward, and trying to find my place in this world (minus the abuse).  And to me this book is about just that.  Dealing with life in general, and learning and growing from it.  Where would we be if we didn't experience the things we have experienced in life?  Course Bryn's case of abuse makes her life lesson a little more serious.  Not like when you stay out too late and don't call home and get grounded. 

I definitely suggest this book for you and your awkward teenage daughter to read.  You both may learn something really great from it. 

Moving on.  Bet you didn't think I would have two books here, now did you?  Ha ha

Ok.  I don't have much to say about this book.  I read the first page and it didn't interest me at all.  In fact, the word LAME went screeching across my brain.  I know that when this happens to just stop reading.  Stop right where I am, and delete from Kindle. 

If you want to give it a whirl and read it, I am open to hear what you have to say about it. 

Now onto the next book!  Happy reading.

January 31st, 2011

I must say I am getting a little tired of snow.  It’s still out there, and now we have a freezing rain/rain storm on the way.  I know one being who will not be thrilled about that, Peanut.  He hates getting wet, but on the flip side loves the snow. 

Well, we are almost into the month of Febuary, and that means we are that much closer to warmer temps.  I can’t wait.  I love Spring and Summer, and tank tops and flip flops. 

Now I am off to complete my Maryland State Tax Return.  It makes my brain hurt.  I wish they would make it more simple.  Every year it gets harder and every year I make some sort of mistake.  Come on Maryland, get it together and make this simple!  The Federal Return is simple…

January 30th, 2011

I just finished this book on my kindle.  I was expecting a ghost story, what I got was a gay romance and ghost story. 

I have nothing against people who are gay, or stories about gays.  I just wasn't expecting it.  Still a good story if you don't mind the romance part of it.  If you are objectionable in any way to gay romance, then this book is not for you.

A group of paranormal investigators go to Oleander House to find out what has been causing the untimely deaths of residents, and guests.  What they find, is not what they expected.  I like the story line.  Tough the entity that does the haunting seems more like an alien than a ghost.

January 29th, 2011

This was yesterday’s eye shadow adventure.  I love it.  It reminds me of a circus tent, full of color and excitement.

January 28th, 2011

So I got a really great phone call yesterday.  I got the call that I got the job I had interviewed for.  Very exciting news.  I don’t know when my first day is, but I will be sure to let you know.  As well as what I will be doing. 

This post today is all about make-up and colors.  I love colorful eye shadows.  Sometimes they can be a bit over bearing on eyes though.  Recently I have been doing a little something different with my shadows that I think really stands out.

First I apply a little bit of eye shadow primer to my lids.  I have a new love for eye shadow primer.  It really helps the shadow stay put.  After I sweep one color over my entire lid. Then I use a smaller shadow brush to put a bolder color just in the corners of my eyes.  Finish off with the eyeliner and mascara and you are done.

Take a look!

Here I used a white shadow, a teal shadow, black mascara, and black eyeliner.  I have even used other colors like teal and purple, pink and gold, and pink and orange.

Give it a try, and add more color to your life!!

January 26th, 2011

Ok, so sorry this took so long.  I had a job interview and then went with Mark to Atlantic City for a day.  Hopefully the job interview results in a job, that would be awesome. 

Barcelo Maya Palace, Riviera Maya, Mexico.

It was a beautiful resort.  We didn’t get there until later afternoon Friday, and Saturday was pretty cloudy.  After that the weather got sunny and warm.  It was heaven.  The buffets for breakfast and lunch were fine.  You could eat all you wanted and be happy. The restaurants for dinner were a completely different story.  The food was good at dinner, but at the same time there could have been a lot better.  One night we ate all the Brazilian restaurant, and all of the meat was over cooked, and dry.  One night we ate at the French restaurant, and it was ok.  The lobster and shrimp were definitely overcooked, and the steak I had with my surf and turf was salty.  The seafood restaurant was ok, more overcooked shrimp, and the Bouillabaisse soup was so salty that if I had eaten it, my blood pressure would have gone through the roof.

Our last night at Barcelo Palace, we had a dinner reservation for 8 at the Italian Restaurant, and for some reason it was marked as 4.  There were 22 people who had not shown up for their reservations, and the Italian restaurant told us it could not accommodate us.  This was upsetting.  After trying to sort it out we went to the French restaurant, which we did not need a reservation for, and were told we could not be accommodated, AGAIN. It was as if on the last night, Barcelo and it’s staff really didn’t care what kind of time we were having because we were leaving the next day.  So, in all our dressed up glory 8 angry people made our way to the buffet.  The guy who was our waiter really did his best to make sure we had a pleasurable dining experience, even after he learned about what his co-workers in the other restaurants had done.  He carried our plates and a few other wait-staff even helped improve our moods by doing the same thing.  He was the rare shining star of the Barcelo Resort.

We did a lot of things while we were in Mexico for the week.  We went to Playa Del Carmen for shopping and lunch.  Lunch was quite possibly some of the best authentic Mexican food I have eaten.  Taxi rides to and from Playa Del Carmen were super cheap.  $25 split between 4 people one way = about $6.25 per person.

Tulum, the Mayan Ruins, were just as beautiful and awe-inspiring as I remembered. I love them.  Looking at them is like going back in time, and seeing a totally different world.  We didn’t make it to Coba as planned, because the rental car company took too long to get us our vehicle.  But the price of the company we used was way cheaper than the resort’s rental.  I believe we paid $160 for the rental and the resort wanted $310 for their rental.  Lame!

We also did XPLOR.  It’s part of XCARAT, and you can go ATV-ing, zip-lining, rafting and swimming.  It was great.  I got really dizzy and nauseated while doing the zip-line, but I still had fun.  I will definitely go zip-lining again, if given the opportunity.  If you take a trip to Cancun or the Mayan Riviera, I totally suggest you do it.  And, book it online, because through the resort it was almost $120 and online it was $90.  Same thing, except the resort wants all your money, so they mark up everything.

I did get a massage while on the resort, and it was a hot stone massage.  I really loved the hot stone massage I got when I went to Atlantis back in 2007.  This was was ok.  Not as good as Atlantis, but still good.  Also on the resort we were able to buy fish food to feed the fish in the water just off the beach of the resort.  That was actually really fun.  Even when someone spotted a 4 foot reef shark!

Over all I wouldn’t say my stay at the Barcelo was not terrible.  We had a great time, until the last night.  And to me the last night is what really counts.  It’s how you end your trip that matters.  Barcelo is supposed to be the number 1 resort in Mexico.  I would not rate them so high.  Not when there needs to be improvements made to the food cooked at dinner (make it fresher, and don’t over cook it), and if you decide the stay at the Palace, which is supposed to get you access for all the restaurants, be prepared.  You won’t be able to get into them.  You can’t make dinner reservations before your trip, and you can’t make reservations when you get there because all the restaurants are booked solid.  I would give them a mid-grade rating.

If and when I go back to the Mayan Riviera, because I am sure I will at some point, (It’s so beautiful there, you really should go.) I will not be staying at the Barcelo.  I will look into the other resorts and see what else there is to offer.  And to be honest I hope someone from Barcelo reads this.  The price paid for the Palace and all it’s access to the restaurants of all the resorts was not worth it.  I feel if Barcelo improves their overall service in the restaurants (food and seating) I may give it a second chance. 

Here are some pics, hope you enjoy!

January 22nd, 2011

Back from vacation, stay tuned for a review of Barcelo Maya Palace Resort! You don't want to miss it.

January 17, 2011

Vacation is going great!

Just finished a great zombie book, that was once a classic. Check it out!

January 13th, 2011

Well, I am off on a little vacation for a week.  Don’t worry I will have plenty of pictures to share of the wonderful warm destination I am headed to. 

Bon Voyage!

January 12th, 2011

I can't wait for Lucia to give me these shoes.

January 11th, 2011

I book down and more to go!

This book was a very fun read.  You follow Lilly, an Apothecary's daughter, as she goes about her life.  It's set in the 1800's time period, and I loved imagining the time in my head with all the dresses and dances. 

Lilly tries to find her mother, who ran off.  She also helps her father, and meets several eligible bachelors.  She also learns something very interesting about her best friend Mary Mimpurse.

I didn't think this book would have been as interesting as it was, but I was really surprised.

January 10th, 2011

In 4 short days I will be basking in the warm temps and crystal blue waters of the Mayan Riviera. This trip was planned well before I got laid off from work, and you should never back out of an adventure. I'm looking forward to the trip, and I can't think of a better way to spend my birthday.

The other day I felt quite adventurous.....with my make-up. I paired a teal eye shadow and a purple eye shadow together. I also wore a purple eyeliner and black mascara. It was a lot of fun, and very lovely.

January 6th, 2010

I am a reading machine!  Mark is away, and I can only job hunt so many hours of the day.  So with my free time, I have been reading.  Oh, and working out at the gym.

The book I just finished reading is called Blood of the Wicked, and I was pretty amazed by it.  At first I wondered how all the characters were going to connect in the book.  It seemed like there were so many characters, I was going to get lost.  But I didn't.  I consumed in the plot and surprised by the ending.  Well, not too surprised, but kind of surprised. 

Definitely a good book, so check it out.

January 5th, 2011

Mom has MS, and she decided she was going to make shrimp. It didn't happen because she said she forgot how to cook shrimp.  She is also suffering effects from a concussion she got a few months back, so that also added to her lapse in memory.  It can be frustrating, but you just got to move on.

So I googled Shrimp Dinners, and came across a blurb about Louisiana Style BBQ Shrimp.  It said what the ingridients were and I gave it a crack. 

It was pretty good for guessing the amounts of spices and stuff to put in the dish itself. 

But, just for shits and giggles, here is an actual recipe! Also, I put it over rice, since we didn't have any crusty bread, and that worked too. 

Ingredients

• 2-3 pounds unpeeled shrimp
• 1 loaf crusty fresh bread, for dipping
• Wet Ingredients:
• 2 sticks real butter
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Dry Herbs:
• 4 bay leaves, crushed to a powder (or 1/4 teaspoon powdered)
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary, powdered with the bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1/2-1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Serves / Yields

8 appetizer servings

Preparation Instructions

Combine all the dry herbs and mix well. Simmer wet ingredients for the sauce on the stovetop. Add the dry herbs, stirring for about 6-7 minutes. Use a large enough pot for the shrimp to fit in a single layer.
Add the shrimp and bring to boil. Lower heat, and cook l0 minutes or more, stirring and lifting, till all are pink. Do not overcook.
Turn off heat, cover pan, and let sit to absorb the flavors for about 15 minutes.
If you prefer, you can bake the shrimp in a 400 degree oven until cooked through. Don't overcook them, they just have to be very hot throughout - too much will toughen. The longer they sit in the sauce, they better they become!

Helpful Hints

Serve this with hot, crusty french bread to dip in the sauce, as you peel the shrimp and eat them. You can adjust the amount of cayenne, depending on your taste. Also, ground Chipotle chile pepper is good in this.

January 1st, 2011

Hello everyone and welcome to the New Year.  I can’t wait to see what exciting adventures 2011 will bring my way.  The top priority right now for me is a new job.  Since I am still unemployed, a new job will be awesome.  Oh and I am 13 days away from my Mexico trip.  I’m so excited for that!!

I just wanted to share a few images from last night.  I hung out with my friends and we had a great time.  Mark is off on his winter trip with his brother and so I was all by my lonesome, but it’s all good.  He called me right before he got on the plane to head from Hong Kong, China, to Thailand, and wished me a Happy New Year.