Ok, so remember back about a month ago when I had asked you all to vote for my cousin to sing the National Anthem at a Marquette game? Well, when I had posted that, he was about 5% below the leader, and after only one day, somehow he jumped into first. I'm not trying to toot my own horn but...well...Toot Toot! That's right, it was because of the popularity of this blog that was selected to perform as one of two singers on the radio, and after a final vote, was chosen to sing at the game!!!
So, of course, we had to go to the game! In addition, my entire dad's office (where my cousin works) had to come. A little outing if you may. Since we purchased so many tickets, we were actually given these pretty sweet blankets (I know you hate them, Jessi, but it was free...deal with it!).
Honestly, I just went for the singing. I couldn't have cared less for the game. But anyways, the evening was fun, and it was yet another time for me to say ciao to some of my family that I saw there. So fun!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Who Needs a New Year's Eve When You Can Spend Precious Time on a Tarmac?
Ok...so when I last left you, we were having a blast in Texas. But, like all good things, it had to come to an end eventually...
December 31, 2007...the last day of a whirl-wind year. The day that we had to fly back to Chicago, arrive around 5pm, and drive home for our little family New Year's shin-dig...that was the plan anyways...
...Enter Amazing Race "I Hope That Never Happens To Me" moment number two...the on-plane delay...
Ok, so the weather was amazing in Texas...low 60s I think...but elsewhere, not the case. Actually, "else where" only includes one place...Chicago, IL. Seriously, apparently the ONLY precipitation on the ENTIRE weather map was over that area...our luck! So, as anticipated, the plane was delayed for 40 minutes, giving us siblings some time to run and grab a little something pre-security for lunch. (Again, time around 2pm...we have a horrible eating schedule!). It also gave me enough time to run the key back to the Avis counter that my dad accidentally took (oops!). Anywho, so we were finally allowed to board, when the worst thing happened...Ok, I can think of a few other worse things, including incidences with people trying to light their tennis shoes on fire, but this comes in as a screaming second...we were delayed while on the plane!
Seriously, I wish this on nobody...We were taxied out to the runway, but conveniently, we were told while taxiing (is that correct?) that we were delayed due to weather in Chicago, and that the wait time was roughly an hour, but that was just a guesstimate (I hate that word...that's how much I hate this situation...). So, after watching some "Ellen in a Minute" podcasts, and taking many short naps, the hour had elapsed and so had some of our patience (ok, kinda mostly Jessi, but then I got into Amazing Race mode, so I too was getting impatient). The pilot got back onto the speaker and informed us that there was another wait where after that we would have an answer...but, in the meantime, enjoy some water and tea. Thanks guys...
So, Jessi got on her cell phone and began to make some calls... Madison Julie was her ticketing agent who was giving her other options of getting into Wisconsin in time to spend New Year's on the ground with our loved ones... The issues:
(A) We were on a plane in the middle of the tarmac...According to man sitting behind Jessi, next to Missy, if we had requested to get off, they had to let us off, but the issues came in with our luggage (which had to stay on the plane). Also, if we decided that we had to get off, but that option fell through, we then had the issue that we couldn't get back on this flight...Risky indeed...
(B) Our van was still near O'Hare at that hotel. The idea was too fly into somewhere not O'hare so that we would actually be able to land... One option that Julie found was flying into Madison, getting us in early enough, but if that fell through, well, take a look at issue (A).
(C) Delays were happening all over due to delayed flights in/out of O'Hare. The chances of getting somewhere on another flight...well, look at issues (A) and (B)...
So, we stuck with it. Then, after waiting for 3+ hours, we were given clearance to take off! This, of course, came with warning that we might have to circle for some time, but nonetheless, we would be hovering over our destination!
Well, after a blind landing (0 visibility), we arrived around 9pm...just enough time to grab the luggage, call the hotel shuttle, traverse the confusing O'Hare tunnels to the correct pick-up area, and get back to the snow covered van in the hotel's parking lot...Oy. We managed to leave fairly quickly, and after a bit, I had fallen asleep, with zero hope of being home to ring in the new year. Jessi, the optimist (did I really just say that?), called Andy and made plans to be dropped off to see him before the ball drop. Well, the race was on!
I woke up when the van stopped at the New Berlin Entertainment Center, where we let Jessi out. Looking at the clock, I saw 11:44...we still had time!
So, after 1 very long day, 3 states and thousands of miles, we managed to get home at 11:58pm - less than two minutes to spare. We neglected the bags, ran in, threw on the TV, and watched Dick Clark's countdown...we made it! So, instead of the celebration that we had loosely planned, the majority of us just hit the sack...our whirl-wind adventure was done.
Happy New Years!
December 31, 2007...the last day of a whirl-wind year. The day that we had to fly back to Chicago, arrive around 5pm, and drive home for our little family New Year's shin-dig...that was the plan anyways...
...Enter Amazing Race "I Hope That Never Happens To Me" moment number two...the on-plane delay...
Ok, so the weather was amazing in Texas...low 60s I think...but elsewhere, not the case. Actually, "else where" only includes one place...Chicago, IL. Seriously, apparently the ONLY precipitation on the ENTIRE weather map was over that area...our luck! So, as anticipated, the plane was delayed for 40 minutes, giving us siblings some time to run and grab a little something pre-security for lunch. (Again, time around 2pm...we have a horrible eating schedule!). It also gave me enough time to run the key back to the Avis counter that my dad accidentally took (oops!). Anywho, so we were finally allowed to board, when the worst thing happened...Ok, I can think of a few other worse things, including incidences with people trying to light their tennis shoes on fire, but this comes in as a screaming second...we were delayed while on the plane!
Seriously, I wish this on nobody...We were taxied out to the runway, but conveniently, we were told while taxiing (is that correct?) that we were delayed due to weather in Chicago, and that the wait time was roughly an hour, but that was just a guesstimate (I hate that word...that's how much I hate this situation...). So, after watching some "Ellen in a Minute" podcasts, and taking many short naps, the hour had elapsed and so had some of our patience (ok, kinda mostly Jessi, but then I got into Amazing Race mode, so I too was getting impatient). The pilot got back onto the speaker and informed us that there was another wait where after that we would have an answer...but, in the meantime, enjoy some water and tea. Thanks guys...
So, Jessi got on her cell phone and began to make some calls... Madison Julie was her ticketing agent who was giving her other options of getting into Wisconsin in time to spend New Year's on the ground with our loved ones... The issues:
(A) We were on a plane in the middle of the tarmac...According to man sitting behind Jessi, next to Missy, if we had requested to get off, they had to let us off, but the issues came in with our luggage (which had to stay on the plane). Also, if we decided that we had to get off, but that option fell through, we then had the issue that we couldn't get back on this flight...Risky indeed...
(B) Our van was still near O'Hare at that hotel. The idea was too fly into somewhere not O'hare so that we would actually be able to land... One option that Julie found was flying into Madison, getting us in early enough, but if that fell through, well, take a look at issue (A).
(C) Delays were happening all over due to delayed flights in/out of O'Hare. The chances of getting somewhere on another flight...well, look at issues (A) and (B)...
So, we stuck with it. Then, after waiting for 3+ hours, we were given clearance to take off! This, of course, came with warning that we might have to circle for some time, but nonetheless, we would be hovering over our destination!
Well, after a blind landing (0 visibility), we arrived around 9pm...just enough time to grab the luggage, call the hotel shuttle, traverse the confusing O'Hare tunnels to the correct pick-up area, and get back to the snow covered van in the hotel's parking lot...Oy. We managed to leave fairly quickly, and after a bit, I had fallen asleep, with zero hope of being home to ring in the new year. Jessi, the optimist (did I really just say that?), called Andy and made plans to be dropped off to see him before the ball drop. Well, the race was on!
I woke up when the van stopped at the New Berlin Entertainment Center, where we let Jessi out. Looking at the clock, I saw 11:44...we still had time!
So, after 1 very long day, 3 states and thousands of miles, we managed to get home at 11:58pm - less than two minutes to spare. We neglected the bags, ran in, threw on the TV, and watched Dick Clark's countdown...we made it! So, instead of the celebration that we had loosely planned, the majority of us just hit the sack...our whirl-wind adventure was done.
Happy New Years!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Bienvenidos a Texas y Mexico!
Another really long one...my apologies!
So I must say that the most highly anticipated part of my home stay was actually not at home at all...In fact, part of it wasn't even in the same country...
That's right, the part that I looked most forward to was my cousin Greg's wedding in El Paso, TX! Basically, a chance to be with family, be in a warm(er) place during break, and see my dad on an airplane!
I should start by briefly explaining our flight plans. Basically, a month or so before the day, we had nothing. Lots of research was done, but nothing was set in stone. So, one day, after some Skyping with the family, I decided to give it a go myself, finding quite the deal! A non-stop from O'Hare on great dates and times. Booked!
Alright, so the process of leaving home was very Schober family...things everywhere, triple checking everything, and packing WAY too much...But, nonetheless, and with the assistance of Helga, our "in flight navigator" (our GPS unit that my dad got from my Gramma), we got down to our Chicago hotel the night before the flight (snow had started, but things were alright...).
The next morning was the push to get to the airport on one of their shuttles. We managed to make it (eating barely nothing), however a certain engaged sister (shall remain nameless) accidentally forgot her ring in the bathroom...whoops! Back to the hotel for her...but, she did make it back in time to get checked in, and psyched out for the flight.
Now...the flight...let's just say that I think Jessi and I freaked each other out. I am very used to flying and usually am not affected by anything. Then I sat next to Jessi. Together, we thought that the turbulence during takeoff was sending us plummeting to our deaths...And let me just say that the one person who I thought was going to be the worst (Dad) was definitely asleep pre-takeoff...thank you Zanex.
But, needless to say, we arrived. Welcome to El Paso, Texas! Like nothing I have ever seen before (or at least remembering seeing). The landscape was incredible. Everything was the same sandy color. And the weather...phew. First day, pretty nice, but getting cooler as the day went on.
Getting our rental car was interesting as well. Seriously, it shouldn't have been...at all. But let's face it - some traces of the meds were still lingering with my dad, so things got fun. First off, who would have thought it a good idea to get a small car for 5 people and their luggage? Upgrade please! Second, insurance. When these people try to push insurance, and when your daughter who works in an insurance office both attempt to explain the near necessity of purchasing it, chances are tha you would go along with it. Not dad, though! He's a rebel! (we didn't really need it after the weekend was done, but still...its dangerous out there!)
So, again, Helga got us to our destination in a timely fashion - our amazing hotel, which was also the sight of the wedding reception. I honestly loved it. It was so nice, and had a great view of the city below (ok, that part is a little fudged, but in a nice room, things generally look nicer!). Oh, and we also received this sweet giftbag on arrival as a "Thank You" offering some local favorites (chip and salsa and even "Greg and Fernanda" Wedding Cookies). It felt like the Oscars!
After a little bit of exploring the hotel and relaxing, we decided that 4pm would be a good time to get something to eat (lunch? dinner?). Anyways, we found a very awesome, themey BBQ joint and had great food. Yumm... Then, we drove a bit but ended up back at the hotel to visit with the other family that flew down for the wedding as well (who, except for the wedding party's family, actually all ended up getting stuck in a variety of cities due to the inclement weather that fell during/after out flight...sorry guys!). But, we were basically dead from the long day, so bed came a'callin' pretty early.
Leading up to the wedding day, things were a little chaotic and confusing. Everyone had something that they had wanted to do, but with a lack of time and decision making skills, not much actually happened. I can say that we did get to check out the shopping scene (mostly the Walgreens a few blocks away and the Target/Barnes and Noble complex a few miles away), as well as this tram thing that Missy and Jessi suckered out of (seriously, much younger cousin wanted to go back up...c'mon!)...but anywho...
Wedding day, and much like us, we were running way late. But, somehow, we pulled it together (I honestly think that always happens, and I should just embrace it...it happens all the time, but somehow I am always surprised...that should change...). The ceremony was incredible. Jessi took feverish notes (but seriously...) and I stayed awake and even paid attention throughout the whole thing (do I hear a Win-Win?)!
Much like the ceremony, the reception was very amazing as well. So elegant, so fun! Before the doors were opened into the ballroom (it was like the anticipation before a Broadway show...if you can relate), there were appetizers, drinks, mingling, and even a Mariachi Band! How could it get better!? Umm...how about the dinner itself? Yea, that'll do it. Yummy food and great cake to follow (good luck trying to top this one, Jessi!). The night was capped off with great speeches, then music and dancing. What fun!!!
So, what would you do with a 16 person group in El Paso on a Sunday? How about boarder jumping? Okay!
Seriously, we went to Mexico...(and let me just defend myself by saying that the trolley company that took us was in fact called the "Boarder Jumpers" Trolley Company...). The system that this company runs on is kinda sketchy, but whatever, it was some of my families first time in Mexico, so it was fun. They basically drop you off at one of 5 (I think) stops, all of which are at shops which, surprise!, are owned by that company. But let's face it, we bought...way too much in fact... First stop, a cultural store, with pottery, statues, and sombreros...and that is exactly what my dad purchased (much like the thought process with my cardboard cutout, it was that "buy first, think where it will go second"). Then, we hit this amazing glass shop, where Jessi got a very sweet set of glasses and a pitcher, Missy got some statue/wall thing, and I bought a painting...do we even had room for this stuff? Eh, think about that later...
The next store was a leather goods store/distillery(?)...seriously, nice boots, belts, jackets, and bottles of cactus juice and Tequila. What more does one need!? Finally, we hit the market - the mecca for bargaining (which my dad and mom were surprisingly very good at). Somehow, with all of these stops, the 16 of us managed to stay together...well, en route the the market, the trolley was no where in sight, so some of us took taxis, and us younger ones began the 16 block walk (on the way, somehow the trolley drive observed that we were not local and picked us up...I wonder how he knew...?). As of course, leaving the market, we definitely were the last family to leave, with a short sprint out the the trolley, but we made it!
Getting back into the states was interesting...A very crowded bridge of cars and foot traffic, as well as vendors walking in and out of cars with the most recently pirated movies (seriously, Juno was out there, and that had just come out like 3 days before that...), and churros, and then there were the windshield washers that would just wash your car and then come to the window...a very different way...
Now, I know what some people think about the border - how do some many people cross illegally with the tight security? Well, let me run you through that...see, they weren't really caring about the passports that we carried (though they did remind my dad that it would probably be wise to sign his soon...), they just wanted to tax us on any alcohol that we were carrying. Oh, and they may have asked our nationality. So, basically, don't try to be ballsy and sprint over at night, just walk through security during the day, tell 'em you are American, and forget the alcohol in Mexico...case solved...
But, I digress about that...what I need to talk about, clearly, is food. Even with dinner plans, my family still hadn't experienced true Mexican food, so before leaving for our dinner plans, we walked to this restaurant that supposedly is Lance Armstrong's favorite (who knew?) for some appetizers. After taking forever, eating the delicious food, and cutting 30% off the bill, we then headed to our real dinner...at the Texas Cattleman's Ranch (something like that...). This place was...wow. Apparently it is a true working farm with over 500 seats for guests, and they have shops, and grounds to explore. We, however, got there too late to see the farm-ness as well as some of the shops, but it's too bad, because we were given an over two hour wait...joy (Seriously, with over 500 seats, and that long of a wait for 16...I hope the president was there or something...hey, maybe he was...).
But, somehow, we were seated in like 40 minutes, and the best part, and 2 tables of 8...kids and adults. Jessi, Missy, you're sitting with us kiddies! It was soooo much fun! Great times, AMAZING food (they have these steaks that come in sizes up to 5 pounds...so, we grilled (no pun intended) the waitress with questions like "How long does it take to cook?" "How many do you serve in a night?" "Did you come here alone?" (Ok, not that one...)...and wouldn't you know it, she had answers for them all, and stayed nice throughout the whole thing...she got a good tip!).
Arriving back to the hotel, the parents went down to the bar while us kids got together and played Cranium (yes, I packed that...I said that we brought way too much...).
Fun times all weekend had by all, but the next morning, it was time for us to head out...on New Year's Eve. And I thought that the weekend in El Paso was eventful...getting home is a whole other story...and post for that matter! Stay tuned!
So I must say that the most highly anticipated part of my home stay was actually not at home at all...In fact, part of it wasn't even in the same country...
That's right, the part that I looked most forward to was my cousin Greg's wedding in El Paso, TX! Basically, a chance to be with family, be in a warm(er) place during break, and see my dad on an airplane!
I should start by briefly explaining our flight plans. Basically, a month or so before the day, we had nothing. Lots of research was done, but nothing was set in stone. So, one day, after some Skyping with the family, I decided to give it a go myself, finding quite the deal! A non-stop from O'Hare on great dates and times. Booked!
Alright, so the process of leaving home was very Schober family...things everywhere, triple checking everything, and packing WAY too much...But, nonetheless, and with the assistance of Helga, our "in flight navigator" (our GPS unit that my dad got from my Gramma), we got down to our Chicago hotel the night before the flight (snow had started, but things were alright...).
The next morning was the push to get to the airport on one of their shuttles. We managed to make it (eating barely nothing), however a certain engaged sister (shall remain nameless) accidentally forgot her ring in the bathroom...whoops! Back to the hotel for her...but, she did make it back in time to get checked in, and psyched out for the flight.
Now...the flight...let's just say that I think Jessi and I freaked each other out. I am very used to flying and usually am not affected by anything. Then I sat next to Jessi. Together, we thought that the turbulence during takeoff was sending us plummeting to our deaths...And let me just say that the one person who I thought was going to be the worst (Dad) was definitely asleep pre-takeoff...thank you Zanex.
But, needless to say, we arrived. Welcome to El Paso, Texas! Like nothing I have ever seen before (or at least remembering seeing). The landscape was incredible. Everything was the same sandy color. And the weather...phew. First day, pretty nice, but getting cooler as the day went on.
Getting our rental car was interesting as well. Seriously, it shouldn't have been...at all. But let's face it - some traces of the meds were still lingering with my dad, so things got fun. First off, who would have thought it a good idea to get a small car for 5 people and their luggage? Upgrade please! Second, insurance. When these people try to push insurance, and when your daughter who works in an insurance office both attempt to explain the near necessity of purchasing it, chances are tha you would go along with it. Not dad, though! He's a rebel! (we didn't really need it after the weekend was done, but still...its dangerous out there!)
So, again, Helga got us to our destination in a timely fashion - our amazing hotel, which was also the sight of the wedding reception. I honestly loved it. It was so nice, and had a great view of the city below (ok, that part is a little fudged, but in a nice room, things generally look nicer!). Oh, and we also received this sweet giftbag on arrival as a "Thank You" offering some local favorites (chip and salsa and even "Greg and Fernanda" Wedding Cookies). It felt like the Oscars!
After a little bit of exploring the hotel and relaxing, we decided that 4pm would be a good time to get something to eat (lunch? dinner?). Anyways, we found a very awesome, themey BBQ joint and had great food. Yumm... Then, we drove a bit but ended up back at the hotel to visit with the other family that flew down for the wedding as well (who, except for the wedding party's family, actually all ended up getting stuck in a variety of cities due to the inclement weather that fell during/after out flight...sorry guys!). But, we were basically dead from the long day, so bed came a'callin' pretty early.
Leading up to the wedding day, things were a little chaotic and confusing. Everyone had something that they had wanted to do, but with a lack of time and decision making skills, not much actually happened. I can say that we did get to check out the shopping scene (mostly the Walgreens a few blocks away and the Target/Barnes and Noble complex a few miles away), as well as this tram thing that Missy and Jessi suckered out of (seriously, much younger cousin wanted to go back up...c'mon!)...but anywho...
Wedding day, and much like us, we were running way late. But, somehow, we pulled it together (I honestly think that always happens, and I should just embrace it...it happens all the time, but somehow I am always surprised...that should change...). The ceremony was incredible. Jessi took feverish notes (but seriously...) and I stayed awake and even paid attention throughout the whole thing (do I hear a Win-Win?)!
Much like the ceremony, the reception was very amazing as well. So elegant, so fun! Before the doors were opened into the ballroom (it was like the anticipation before a Broadway show...if you can relate), there were appetizers, drinks, mingling, and even a Mariachi Band! How could it get better!? Umm...how about the dinner itself? Yea, that'll do it. Yummy food and great cake to follow (good luck trying to top this one, Jessi!). The night was capped off with great speeches, then music and dancing. What fun!!!
So, what would you do with a 16 person group in El Paso on a Sunday? How about boarder jumping? Okay!
Seriously, we went to Mexico...(and let me just defend myself by saying that the trolley company that took us was in fact called the "Boarder Jumpers" Trolley Company...). The system that this company runs on is kinda sketchy, but whatever, it was some of my families first time in Mexico, so it was fun. They basically drop you off at one of 5 (I think) stops, all of which are at shops which, surprise!, are owned by that company. But let's face it, we bought...way too much in fact... First stop, a cultural store, with pottery, statues, and sombreros...and that is exactly what my dad purchased (much like the thought process with my cardboard cutout, it was that "buy first, think where it will go second"). Then, we hit this amazing glass shop, where Jessi got a very sweet set of glasses and a pitcher, Missy got some statue/wall thing, and I bought a painting...do we even had room for this stuff? Eh, think about that later...
The next store was a leather goods store/distillery(?)...seriously, nice boots, belts, jackets, and bottles of cactus juice and Tequila. What more does one need!? Finally, we hit the market - the mecca for bargaining (which my dad and mom were surprisingly very good at). Somehow, with all of these stops, the 16 of us managed to stay together...well, en route the the market, the trolley was no where in sight, so some of us took taxis, and us younger ones began the 16 block walk (on the way, somehow the trolley drive observed that we were not local and picked us up...I wonder how he knew...?). As of course, leaving the market, we definitely were the last family to leave, with a short sprint out the the trolley, but we made it!
Getting back into the states was interesting...A very crowded bridge of cars and foot traffic, as well as vendors walking in and out of cars with the most recently pirated movies (seriously, Juno was out there, and that had just come out like 3 days before that...), and churros, and then there were the windshield washers that would just wash your car and then come to the window...a very different way...
Now, I know what some people think about the border - how do some many people cross illegally with the tight security? Well, let me run you through that...see, they weren't really caring about the passports that we carried (though they did remind my dad that it would probably be wise to sign his soon...), they just wanted to tax us on any alcohol that we were carrying. Oh, and they may have asked our nationality. So, basically, don't try to be ballsy and sprint over at night, just walk through security during the day, tell 'em you are American, and forget the alcohol in Mexico...case solved...
But, I digress about that...what I need to talk about, clearly, is food. Even with dinner plans, my family still hadn't experienced true Mexican food, so before leaving for our dinner plans, we walked to this restaurant that supposedly is Lance Armstrong's favorite (who knew?) for some appetizers. After taking forever, eating the delicious food, and cutting 30% off the bill, we then headed to our real dinner...at the Texas Cattleman's Ranch (something like that...). This place was...wow. Apparently it is a true working farm with over 500 seats for guests, and they have shops, and grounds to explore. We, however, got there too late to see the farm-ness as well as some of the shops, but it's too bad, because we were given an over two hour wait...joy (Seriously, with over 500 seats, and that long of a wait for 16...I hope the president was there or something...hey, maybe he was...).
But, somehow, we were seated in like 40 minutes, and the best part, and 2 tables of 8...kids and adults. Jessi, Missy, you're sitting with us kiddies! It was soooo much fun! Great times, AMAZING food (they have these steaks that come in sizes up to 5 pounds...so, we grilled (no pun intended) the waitress with questions like "How long does it take to cook?" "How many do you serve in a night?" "Did you come here alone?" (Ok, not that one...)...and wouldn't you know it, she had answers for them all, and stayed nice throughout the whole thing...she got a good tip!).
Arriving back to the hotel, the parents went down to the bar while us kids got together and played Cranium (yes, I packed that...I said that we brought way too much...).
Fun times all weekend had by all, but the next morning, it was time for us to head out...on New Year's Eve. And I thought that the weekend in El Paso was eventful...getting home is a whole other story...and post for that matter! Stay tuned!
Monday, January 21, 2008
A Very Merry Mirrored Chrismas!
This year was a huge year for Christmas in my family. Not only was it Cadee's first Christmas, but we were also hosting Christmas Eve for the first time ever for my mom's side. Needless to say, when I got home on the 14th, our house was at DefCon 5 - code red. There was so much to do (including buying a Christmas Tree - per my request...sorry family!). As well, there was the shopping, the decorating, and creating the menu for our Christmas Eve dinner.
Since I had been away from a proper kitchen for quite some time, I had asked if my mom wouldn't mind me taking that entire project over - from concieving the menu to shopping for the ingredientes, to actually preparing the entire meal. For a brief moment, I think there was a "Hey, are you trying to steal my cheese?" feeling from her, but when she realized what there was still to do, I think she was willing to pass off the project.
So, I did just all of that - I created a very interesting meal plan, and shopped for all of the ingredients. Then, the night before, I actually started the prep (it soooo felt like the "calm before the storm" prep time on Top Chef). I wasn't nervous at all, and actually quite enjoyed that time...but then came Christmas Eve, when the nervous flop sweat began to drip...
Now, before I go any further, let me share with you my very optimistic and __ menu:
Appetizers:
- Tomato and Pepper Bruchetta
- Antipasto Platter with olives, meats and cheeses
- Greek Skewers with Chicken, Tomato, Cucumber and Pepper and a cucumber sauce (fancy, I know...)
Main Meal:
- Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloins
- Parmesean Polenta (from Switzerland!)
- Orzo Pasta with fresh parsley, garlic and parmesan
- Asparagus Bundles wrapped with Bacon (and we have high colestral?)
- Dill Carrots
- Fresh Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions
- Breads
Dessert:
- Chocolate Fondue with fresh Strawberries, Marshmallows, and Swiss Cookies
- Mini Cheesecake Fruit Tarts with Raspberries and Kiwi)
- Mulled Wine
Hungry yet? I know I am...
So, needless to say, I had my work cut out. But, I did have my trusty sous chefs by my side - my mom and Missy (I know...she actually was of assistance...dang...). I did have my "Out of my way!" moments, but let's face it, in the kitchen, I realllllly like my space and have control issues...So basically, if you asked to assist me, and I kinda of pushed you out of the way, Sorry!!!
Ok, but thats still not it...Ok, so as I was preparing the desserts, I was kinda rushing aroung, and had my Uncle Mark kind of asking me a lot of questions and sort of blocking my view of the foyer...but at the time, since I was so frazzled I had no idea why...
So, when my dad asked me to quickly come into the living room because they had "A half birthday/half Christmas gift that they wanted me to have before others started opening their gifts," I was at first very, "Are you kidding me...I am sort of in the middle of something...", but I listened and followed him through the dining room. At that time, I noticed that he began to get "Church Giggles"...you know, that silent but hysterical laughter...and as I turned further, I noticed 4 people with cameras standing around the tree...
...and then I saw it...or I should say...and then I saw me...That's right, my parents got me a larger than life cardboard cutout of myself...(really, could I make this up!?)
Now, you may be thinking...what on earth would have prompted my wonderful (and apparently quirky) parents to purchase this...unique...gift for me? Well, apparently I may have said in a previous blog entry that one of my Life List points is that I want a wax figure/cardboard cutout made of myself...So basically, I asked for it!...
But, really, this entry needs some explanation. See, I had really meant that I had wanted to become so famous one day that an establishment of some sort would honor me by creating one. You know, like when I go promoting my book of blog entries, maybe standing next to me at the book signing at Barnes and Noble could be this life-sized me holding a book...I don't know...just a thought...
Oh, and here is the creepiest part...The "second me" is actually about 3 inches taller than me. So basicaly, it's just peering down at me...freaky!
So, needless to say, we had quite the memorable Christmas! Dinner went off with (nearly) no hitch, Cadee was spoiled beyond belief, and my bed now has an occupant for the next four months! No more lonliness for my family!
Since I had been away from a proper kitchen for quite some time, I had asked if my mom wouldn't mind me taking that entire project over - from concieving the menu to shopping for the ingredientes, to actually preparing the entire meal. For a brief moment, I think there was a "Hey, are you trying to steal my cheese?" feeling from her, but when she realized what there was still to do, I think she was willing to pass off the project.
So, I did just all of that - I created a very interesting meal plan, and shopped for all of the ingredients. Then, the night before, I actually started the prep (it soooo felt like the "calm before the storm" prep time on Top Chef). I wasn't nervous at all, and actually quite enjoyed that time...but then came Christmas Eve, when the nervous flop sweat began to drip...
Now, before I go any further, let me share with you my very optimistic and __ menu:
Appetizers:
- Tomato and Pepper Bruchetta
- Antipasto Platter with olives, meats and cheeses
- Greek Skewers with Chicken, Tomato, Cucumber and Pepper and a cucumber sauce (fancy, I know...)
Main Meal:
- Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloins
- Parmesean Polenta (from Switzerland!)
- Orzo Pasta with fresh parsley, garlic and parmesan
- Asparagus Bundles wrapped with Bacon (and we have high colestral?)
- Dill Carrots
- Fresh Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions
- Breads
Dessert:
- Chocolate Fondue with fresh Strawberries, Marshmallows, and Swiss Cookies
- Mini Cheesecake Fruit Tarts with Raspberries and Kiwi)
- Mulled Wine
Hungry yet? I know I am...
So, needless to say, I had my work cut out. But, I did have my trusty sous chefs by my side - my mom and Missy (I know...she actually was of assistance...dang...). I did have my "Out of my way!" moments, but let's face it, in the kitchen, I realllllly like my space and have control issues...So basically, if you asked to assist me, and I kinda of pushed you out of the way, Sorry!!!
Ok, but thats still not it...Ok, so as I was preparing the desserts, I was kinda rushing aroung, and had my Uncle Mark kind of asking me a lot of questions and sort of blocking my view of the foyer...but at the time, since I was so frazzled I had no idea why...
So, when my dad asked me to quickly come into the living room because they had "A half birthday/half Christmas gift that they wanted me to have before others started opening their gifts," I was at first very, "Are you kidding me...I am sort of in the middle of something...", but I listened and followed him through the dining room. At that time, I noticed that he began to get "Church Giggles"...you know, that silent but hysterical laughter...and as I turned further, I noticed 4 people with cameras standing around the tree...
...and then I saw it...or I should say...and then I saw me...That's right, my parents got me a larger than life cardboard cutout of myself...(really, could I make this up!?)
Now, you may be thinking...what on earth would have prompted my wonderful (and apparently quirky) parents to purchase this...unique...gift for me? Well, apparently I may have said in a previous blog entry that one of my Life List points is that I want a wax figure/cardboard cutout made of myself...So basically, I asked for it!...
But, really, this entry needs some explanation. See, I had really meant that I had wanted to become so famous one day that an establishment of some sort would honor me by creating one. You know, like when I go promoting my book of blog entries, maybe standing next to me at the book signing at Barnes and Noble could be this life-sized me holding a book...I don't know...just a thought...
Oh, and here is the creepiest part...The "second me" is actually about 3 inches taller than me. So basicaly, it's just peering down at me...freaky!
So, needless to say, we had quite the memorable Christmas! Dinner went off with (nearly) no hitch, Cadee was spoiled beyond belief, and my bed now has an occupant for the next four months! No more lonliness for my family!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Back to the Grind...Home Edition
Coming home, there was nothing that I was more excited for than getting back to those things that I found daunting in the past...those mundane activities that I nearly hated before. I missed my old routine life, and coming home, I was ready to jump back in!
First thing first...driving! No joke, I hadn't driven in 4 months, but I was ready and willing to get back behind the wheel and drive! And I know, not driving for so long, some people had doubts of whether I should even drive, but I gotta say, it was as if I was driving this entire time. Seriously, I hoped into my baby of a Ford Focus (don't judge), backed out of the drive way without hitting anything, and then I realized, I was fine. I was actually volunteering myself to run errands for the family. "We are out of milk? I'll go!" "She needs to be picked up? Where are the keys?"
The next thing...bring on West! I was sooooo excited to go back and visit my old high school. I know a lot of people are all "Wow, that's kinda lame...Seriously, you wanna go back?"...and yes, I did! I am sorry that I had an amazing high school experience, and deeply feel sorry for you if you did not. I was ready to see my old teachers, and wander the halls towering over the students, giving them that "I can leave whenever I want" look. It was great!
I first went back for this "Previous students come back and give the seniors a taste of what to expect" day. I actually woke up at 6:30, showered, and got to school by 7:30am to talk to the different classes. I was proud, but some were confused..."That's tomorrow" I was told...Are you kidding me!?!? Oy...only me, I swear... But, I did take advantage of that, and actually stayed up, drove around, and woke up with some highly coveted Starbucks.
The next day...the actual day, I went back (arriving late...you know, I am a Schober...) and was greeted (as always) with numerous, yet generally similar, questions about my experience. I think that if I just wore a t-shirt with "January 12, Lugano (Italian Speaking), Italy, Romania, Switzerland, mid-May" on it, most of the "When do you leave?", "Where is it again? What do they actually speak there?", " Where did you all get to visit?", "When do you come back in the Spring?" questions. (If you were one of these people, no hard feelings! It comes with the territory...I actually quite enjoy the attention!)
Then, it was off to the classrooms to impart wisdom upon the senior class. Each group sat in front of an english class and was asked a series of questions about his or her college. It was very interesting to see what these people worried about with their selection process, only to realize that was me only a year ago, in much the same situation. Eh, it's all relative I guess...
The day was capped off with some teacher visits, including talking with Voss for nearly an hour. It was so nice to see all of the old teachers! So much so that I actually came back! This time, with Liz and Sarah Walsh! Oh, the good times...
Now, any college student (or even former for that matter) knows that whenever the chance at earning money is thrust upon you, you have to take it. So, while back at home, I jumped at the opportunity to go back to my good ol' job of claning my dad's office...Now, I know that it isn't the most glamorous job, and that whenever it is part of my routine I always try to pass it off onto someone else, but let's face it, I needed it! And also, I actually kinda missed it...
Being back at home was such a great realizationof my current position. It was a taste of what life was like for me, full of routine and great memories, but I guess to advance any I have to look forward to the future. I have had a pretty life back in New Berlin, but hopes of an even better one lie in the distance...
First thing first...driving! No joke, I hadn't driven in 4 months, but I was ready and willing to get back behind the wheel and drive! And I know, not driving for so long, some people had doubts of whether I should even drive, but I gotta say, it was as if I was driving this entire time. Seriously, I hoped into my baby of a Ford Focus (don't judge), backed out of the drive way without hitting anything, and then I realized, I was fine. I was actually volunteering myself to run errands for the family. "We are out of milk? I'll go!" "She needs to be picked up? Where are the keys?"
The next thing...bring on West! I was sooooo excited to go back and visit my old high school. I know a lot of people are all "Wow, that's kinda lame...Seriously, you wanna go back?"...and yes, I did! I am sorry that I had an amazing high school experience, and deeply feel sorry for you if you did not. I was ready to see my old teachers, and wander the halls towering over the students, giving them that "I can leave whenever I want" look. It was great!
I first went back for this "Previous students come back and give the seniors a taste of what to expect" day. I actually woke up at 6:30, showered, and got to school by 7:30am to talk to the different classes. I was proud, but some were confused..."That's tomorrow" I was told...Are you kidding me!?!? Oy...only me, I swear... But, I did take advantage of that, and actually stayed up, drove around, and woke up with some highly coveted Starbucks.
The next day...the actual day, I went back (arriving late...you know, I am a Schober...) and was greeted (as always) with numerous, yet generally similar, questions about my experience. I think that if I just wore a t-shirt with "January 12, Lugano (Italian Speaking), Italy, Romania, Switzerland, mid-May" on it, most of the "When do you leave?", "Where is it again? What do they actually speak there?", " Where did you all get to visit?", "When do you come back in the Spring?" questions. (If you were one of these people, no hard feelings! It comes with the territory...I actually quite enjoy the attention!)
Then, it was off to the classrooms to impart wisdom upon the senior class. Each group sat in front of an english class and was asked a series of questions about his or her college. It was very interesting to see what these people worried about with their selection process, only to realize that was me only a year ago, in much the same situation. Eh, it's all relative I guess...
The day was capped off with some teacher visits, including talking with Voss for nearly an hour. It was so nice to see all of the old teachers! So much so that I actually came back! This time, with Liz and Sarah Walsh! Oh, the good times...
Now, any college student (or even former for that matter) knows that whenever the chance at earning money is thrust upon you, you have to take it. So, while back at home, I jumped at the opportunity to go back to my good ol' job of claning my dad's office...Now, I know that it isn't the most glamorous job, and that whenever it is part of my routine I always try to pass it off onto someone else, but let's face it, I needed it! And also, I actually kinda missed it...
Being back at home was such a great realizationof my current position. It was a taste of what life was like for me, full of routine and great memories, but I guess to advance any I have to look forward to the future. I have had a pretty life back in New Berlin, but hopes of an even better one lie in the distance...
Saturday, January 19, 2008
My Hometime Visits
Sorry for the gap - it was the first week of school...seriously! Besides, this is one of the long ones...I have been working on this one for DAYS! Geez...get off my back!
So while I was home for about a month, I had some absolutely incredible visits with all of my hometown peeps. I will say one thing that made these visits absolutely wonderful...this blog. Apparently people actually read this thing, and they already know most of the crazy antics that I have been up to. After only a few questions about what's really going on, we can just get back to talking about whatever, and not focus as much on my experiences. This has also made the "I haven't seen you in over 4 months...this could be interesting" awkwardness very minimal. In fact, It almost felt like I hadn't left. It felt great! So, here are some of those visits that I had while stateside.
-Home At Last...Where Are The Pastries?
Ok, so, as most of you know, I arrived home on December 14 sometime in the afternoon to an excited and eager family at O'Hare. The only way that I would even go home with them was if they had brought my donuts (I kid you not - this was the one thing that I asked for...if there was just a box donuts and a set of keys for the car waiting in the terminal, I would have been equally as happy. alright, thats a bit untrue, but thats about how excited I was for these...but I digress). They, did, as well as Kim (little stinker said she was busy all day...oh you!), and we were on our way home, first of course stopping to get some good-ol' American grub (I ate a taco and some popcorn chicken...Welcome Home!!!). I had my groundings, and was ready to see my peeps.
-My Best McMahon
First visit that we had to make - surprise Grandma and Grandpa... aka "Operation Freak-Grandma-Out-As-If-I-Were-Ed-McMahon-With-A-Million-Dollar-Check". (Before I got into detail, let me just say that even though I was a wee bit jet legged, and very out of it, her reaction definitely woke me up!) Ok, so here was the plan - My mom already knew that they would be home all day, so we figured that they would not mind visitors at all (especially the grandson that they hadn't seen in a few months!). So, we sneakily parked the van, and I alone walked up to the door and rang the bell...best part, though...I had my video camera running! Seriously, the poor woman couldn't form sentences when she saw me in the window. In fact, she excitedly just kept repeating "OH MY...DAVID...TEDDY...HERE...DAVID...TEDDY!!!" It was absolutely priceless! After I summoned the rest of the family in, we had a wonderful visit!
-Good Idea?
After 12 hours in transit, 4 different countries (Switzerland - Milan, Italy - Munich, Germany - USA), visiting with most of the family, and driving for most of the afternoon, the best thing for me would have been a relaxing evening...and I probably concur. But what would the next best this had been? How about hanging out with the gang at Webb's!?! Umm....OK!
Weeks before coming home, I made a promise to some of the friends that we had to meet up right away, and that the most appropriate place would be our good ol' George Webb's. And, as always, what time? How about 11pm?! (This already...bad idea...). I was sort of in and out of it all evening, even taking a few naps here and there, but I knew that I realllllllly wanted to see these people, so I had to pull it together and go. Thinking ahead, though, I knew that I probably wouldn't be in the best condition by that point, so I thought ahead...Missy drove!
Webb's was the best "Welcome Home" recipe ever! Throw in Liz, three Sarahs, two sisters, Marie and a Craig (did I forget anyone? hope not!!!), and you get a ridiculously fun evening! Seriously, woot woot! (Though, I will say, at some point, I did feel myself fall asleep at the table, but I rebounded when my Super George combo and hash browns came) When I was coherent and lucid, the stories and gossip flew! It was just like the lunch table again, but with better food (side note...I kinda miss hot lunch...just thought about that...sorry, it's late - having some focusing issues...). Such a fun evening!
-Never Too Much Wied!
So you know how there are some people that you could hang out with like...everyday? Like, you could travel with them or even live with them and they would never get annoying? Enter Julie Wied...absolutely one of these people!
I saw Julie a few times over this break...oh, actually more than I saw some of my family. There was that Great Wraps lunch with Jessi, that random breakfast (who does breakfast anymore...Julie!), that one time that I felt like a creeper while looking for at her throught the windows to see if she was working...Why a creeper? She works at Victoria's Secret...enough said. Oh yea, and then there was that ridiculous time with Rachel at P.F. Changs...I am still sick from that Great Wall of Chocolate! (Ok, if you have never eaten at that restaurant...GO! it is AMAZING!) No matter where we were, whenever it was, it was filled with laughter and her asking me to come to school at Milwaukee. What can I say...a true friend!
-BABY!!!!!
If there was one person/little bundle of joy that I had to see when I was home, it was my niece Cadence. I know that she has NO idea of who I am, and even is quite frieghtened by me, but let's face it, I am enamoured by her, and had to see her for at least four days (according to the list, anyways...). So, I did!
Yes, she cried whenever I tried to hold her at our family's Holiday Round Robin Festivities, but I was determined to win her back...So, I spent the entire day with her and Ali (thank GOD I didn't to win Ali back at the same time...that would have been waaaay too much for me in one day!) for some last minute Christmas shopping (aka "The box hasn't come yet with all of my gifts in it?...Plan B!" day). And, after a few stops, and multiple "If you keep doing that, its going to stay that way" faces, she was coming around! And then there was Christmas, which I will get into a bit more later, but she was SOOOOOO ADORABLE! I guess to mash into one final day of the four, I spent some hours in the mornings with her while my mom babysat...seriously, her and Shelby (best dog EVER)...a comedy team. I'd pay to just watch them together all day long (ok, that sounds kinda creepy, paying to watch an infant, but you know what I mean...)!
-Enter The Harem
Every year, my parents hold this ridiculous After Christmas party filled with good friends, great food, and the occasional designated driver (I'm just saying...). Well, this year, since it fell while I was briefly home, my parent's decided that I could invite some of my friends over. So, as always, I invited numerous people on Facebook, and wouldn't you know it, most all of them showed up! Seriously, I had 12 people come, which doesn't sounds like a lot, but if you have ever been to this party you know full well that adding 12 people into the mix is quite daunting. After the group dwindled to about 9, we somehow squeezed into my room (again, if you have seen my room, oy) and played Taboo. It was tight, but oh so much fun!
Now you may be wondering about the "Enter The Harem" subtitle...well, if you know me, chances are that you know that a majority of my friends are of the female pursuasion...seriously, I know like 5 guys...it's just one of my things...I don't know! But yea, 9 of the 12 were females, and I got anything from "Hey, congratulations!" to "How the @%$# does he do that?" the entire night...Eh, whatever...they are just jealous!
-Other Visits That I Had Better Mention For Fear Of Getting Yelled At...
--GOLDEN CORRAL follewed by the most RIDICULOUS time ever in a Wal Mart...hmm, no wonder why some of those Christmas decorations were 75% off...sooooooo fun, and great pictures!
--Chancery with Mensa (I think that's what I will call them from now on...yea, I like that...let's face it, they make me feel stupid anyways...it's fitting!). Niki, Teresa, Rajitha and I (see?) grabbed a bite to eat and debated Madison vs Charleston...but besides that, it was great!
--Culver's with YAB Nicki. Oh, so good to see her! And, so good to eat that kid's meal! Oh man...lame, I know!
--Lunch with Ali at Edwardo's! (again...if you have never been, GO!). Great catching up, hearing about the family news!
See, I did see a lot of people while I was home...it was crazy busy, but I did it! If I didn't, I am soooo sorry! A more formal apology will be coming up in a future post...
So while I was home for about a month, I had some absolutely incredible visits with all of my hometown peeps. I will say one thing that made these visits absolutely wonderful...this blog. Apparently people actually read this thing, and they already know most of the crazy antics that I have been up to. After only a few questions about what's really going on, we can just get back to talking about whatever, and not focus as much on my experiences. This has also made the "I haven't seen you in over 4 months...this could be interesting" awkwardness very minimal. In fact, It almost felt like I hadn't left. It felt great! So, here are some of those visits that I had while stateside.
-Home At Last...Where Are The Pastries?
Ok, so, as most of you know, I arrived home on December 14 sometime in the afternoon to an excited and eager family at O'Hare. The only way that I would even go home with them was if they had brought my donuts (I kid you not - this was the one thing that I asked for...if there was just a box donuts and a set of keys for the car waiting in the terminal, I would have been equally as happy. alright, thats a bit untrue, but thats about how excited I was for these...but I digress). They, did, as well as Kim (little stinker said she was busy all day...oh you!), and we were on our way home, first of course stopping to get some good-ol' American grub (I ate a taco and some popcorn chicken...Welcome Home!!!). I had my groundings, and was ready to see my peeps.
-My Best McMahon
First visit that we had to make - surprise Grandma and Grandpa... aka "Operation Freak-Grandma-Out-As-If-I-Were-Ed-McMahon-With-A-Million-Dollar-Check". (Before I got into detail, let me just say that even though I was a wee bit jet legged, and very out of it, her reaction definitely woke me up!) Ok, so here was the plan - My mom already knew that they would be home all day, so we figured that they would not mind visitors at all (especially the grandson that they hadn't seen in a few months!). So, we sneakily parked the van, and I alone walked up to the door and rang the bell...best part, though...I had my video camera running! Seriously, the poor woman couldn't form sentences when she saw me in the window. In fact, she excitedly just kept repeating "OH MY...DAVID...TEDDY...HERE...DAVID...TEDDY!!!" It was absolutely priceless! After I summoned the rest of the family in, we had a wonderful visit!
-Good Idea?
After 12 hours in transit, 4 different countries (Switzerland - Milan, Italy - Munich, Germany - USA), visiting with most of the family, and driving for most of the afternoon, the best thing for me would have been a relaxing evening...and I probably concur. But what would the next best this had been? How about hanging out with the gang at Webb's!?! Umm....OK!
Weeks before coming home, I made a promise to some of the friends that we had to meet up right away, and that the most appropriate place would be our good ol' George Webb's. And, as always, what time? How about 11pm?! (This already...bad idea...). I was sort of in and out of it all evening, even taking a few naps here and there, but I knew that I realllllllly wanted to see these people, so I had to pull it together and go. Thinking ahead, though, I knew that I probably wouldn't be in the best condition by that point, so I thought ahead...Missy drove!
Webb's was the best "Welcome Home" recipe ever! Throw in Liz, three Sarahs, two sisters, Marie and a Craig (did I forget anyone? hope not!!!), and you get a ridiculously fun evening! Seriously, woot woot! (Though, I will say, at some point, I did feel myself fall asleep at the table, but I rebounded when my Super George combo and hash browns came) When I was coherent and lucid, the stories and gossip flew! It was just like the lunch table again, but with better food (side note...I kinda miss hot lunch...just thought about that...sorry, it's late - having some focusing issues...). Such a fun evening!
-Never Too Much Wied!
So you know how there are some people that you could hang out with like...everyday? Like, you could travel with them or even live with them and they would never get annoying? Enter Julie Wied...absolutely one of these people!
I saw Julie a few times over this break...oh, actually more than I saw some of my family. There was that Great Wraps lunch with Jessi, that random breakfast (who does breakfast anymore...Julie!), that one time that I felt like a creeper while looking for at her throught the windows to see if she was working...Why a creeper? She works at Victoria's Secret...enough said. Oh yea, and then there was that ridiculous time with Rachel at P.F. Changs...I am still sick from that Great Wall of Chocolate! (Ok, if you have never eaten at that restaurant...GO! it is AMAZING!) No matter where we were, whenever it was, it was filled with laughter and her asking me to come to school at Milwaukee. What can I say...a true friend!
-BABY!!!!!
If there was one person/little bundle of joy that I had to see when I was home, it was my niece Cadence. I know that she has NO idea of who I am, and even is quite frieghtened by me, but let's face it, I am enamoured by her, and had to see her for at least four days (according to the list, anyways...). So, I did!
Yes, she cried whenever I tried to hold her at our family's Holiday Round Robin Festivities, but I was determined to win her back...So, I spent the entire day with her and Ali (thank GOD I didn't to win Ali back at the same time...that would have been waaaay too much for me in one day!) for some last minute Christmas shopping (aka "The box hasn't come yet with all of my gifts in it?...Plan B!" day). And, after a few stops, and multiple "If you keep doing that, its going to stay that way" faces, she was coming around! And then there was Christmas, which I will get into a bit more later, but she was SOOOOOO ADORABLE! I guess to mash into one final day of the four, I spent some hours in the mornings with her while my mom babysat...seriously, her and Shelby (best dog EVER)...a comedy team. I'd pay to just watch them together all day long (ok, that sounds kinda creepy, paying to watch an infant, but you know what I mean...)!
-Enter The Harem
Every year, my parents hold this ridiculous After Christmas party filled with good friends, great food, and the occasional designated driver (I'm just saying...). Well, this year, since it fell while I was briefly home, my parent's decided that I could invite some of my friends over. So, as always, I invited numerous people on Facebook, and wouldn't you know it, most all of them showed up! Seriously, I had 12 people come, which doesn't sounds like a lot, but if you have ever been to this party you know full well that adding 12 people into the mix is quite daunting. After the group dwindled to about 9, we somehow squeezed into my room (again, if you have seen my room, oy) and played Taboo. It was tight, but oh so much fun!
Now you may be wondering about the "Enter The Harem" subtitle...well, if you know me, chances are that you know that a majority of my friends are of the female pursuasion...seriously, I know like 5 guys...it's just one of my things...I don't know! But yea, 9 of the 12 were females, and I got anything from "Hey, congratulations!" to "How the @%$# does he do that?" the entire night...Eh, whatever...they are just jealous!
-Other Visits That I Had Better Mention For Fear Of Getting Yelled At...
--GOLDEN CORRAL follewed by the most RIDICULOUS time ever in a Wal Mart...hmm, no wonder why some of those Christmas decorations were 75% off...sooooooo fun, and great pictures!
--Chancery with Mensa (I think that's what I will call them from now on...yea, I like that...let's face it, they make me feel stupid anyways...it's fitting!). Niki, Teresa, Rajitha and I (see?) grabbed a bite to eat and debated Madison vs Charleston...but besides that, it was great!
--Culver's with YAB Nicki. Oh, so good to see her! And, so good to eat that kid's meal! Oh man...lame, I know!
--Lunch with Ali at Edwardo's! (again...if you have never been, GO!). Great catching up, hearing about the family news!
See, I did see a lot of people while I was home...it was crazy busy, but I did it! If I didn't, I am soooo sorry! A more formal apology will be coming up in a future post...
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
My Very "Amazing Race" Experience Through Munich
Here we go...
When you fly out of Europe early in the morning en route for the USofA, it is advised to stay up the night so the jet leg will be reduced...and that is exactly what Thuli and I did in the Milan airport. After a crazy car ride down there (tight, with all 5 of my bags...apologies!), we decided to lay low and watch a few movies. Nothing says "Pull an All-Nighter" like "Rocky Horror Picture Show" and "Shanghi Knights"... After a few much needed espressos, it was off to Munich, where we had what could have been the shortest 40 minute layover EVER...
...first, though, let me back track a bit. I know from my years of Amazing Race watching that if you have a very short connection, the only way to guarentee yourself some hope of catching the plane is to befriend the flight staff, trying to get any assistance, be it distance to your next gate, or even some seats closer to the front of the plane. So, I put this knowledge to use, and asked the woman behind the counter about how far our departure gate in Munich was from where we were landing. The only piece of information she could help us with was "Most 5 minutes...trust me, you will make it"...famous last words...
Throughout the short hour+ flight to Germany, Thuli and I were on pins and needles. It was a small plane (a VERY small plane), so we could dash off quickly and make that "5 minute" journey with time to spare...that was the thought anyways...until we realized that we were getting dropped off in the middle of the tarmac and had to wait for the entire plane to empty onto the charter busses that would take us to the building. There goes 10 minutes...
The bus stopped at Terminal G, and according to the tickets, we were taking off from Terminal H. One terminal over, thats close...right? Wrong...Enter two gates on completely opposite sides of the airport...Start "Amazing Race Jog" now (For those who are not familar, this is a slower pased jog through airports done so because of heavy backpack). Following the signs, with only 15 minutes to go, we turn a corner and find...you guessed it...a passport check!!! Didn't we just get off of an international flight en route to yet another international flight? Someone, please explain!
We got out of there with about 7 minutes until our plane was supposed to take off. At this point, we had the entire Terminal H to jog down...Enter the second passport check (seriously...you can't even make this stuff up...). This was done by our airlines. Why? Still, no clue...Just when we thought we were scott free and ready to run onto the plane, out bad luck streak continued. What's left after a bus ride and two passport checks? Oh, I know...security!!!
Literally, we could see our gate not 15 steps past this final impediment. We each hopped in separate lines, and Thuli got through pretty quickly. Thinking that I had already gone through and left her at the security, she boarded. Unfortunately, I had not...I was stuck behind Mr. "You Mean I Can't Take a Bottle of Shaving Cream on the Plane?"...time to switch lines! But my streak continued, this time behind the " 'Why is it Beeping?'...'Sir, You Didn't Take Your Wallet Out or Your Belt Off' " man...HONESTLY!??!
When you keep hearing the "Final Boarding for Flight xxx to Chicago" and you are stuck behind people, thoughts of just sprinting through the metal detectors, knocking over who or whatever is in your way enter your mind...especially when you haven't seen the family and friends in over 4 months...but, all ideas escaped my head when I was able to go through the security and finally able to get on the plane. WE MADE IT!!!
Phew...that was a long story...I hope the rest off of that list aren't this length...I DO have some studying to do every once in a while!
When you fly out of Europe early in the morning en route for the USofA, it is advised to stay up the night so the jet leg will be reduced...and that is exactly what Thuli and I did in the Milan airport. After a crazy car ride down there (tight, with all 5 of my bags...apologies!), we decided to lay low and watch a few movies. Nothing says "Pull an All-Nighter" like "Rocky Horror Picture Show" and "Shanghi Knights"... After a few much needed espressos, it was off to Munich, where we had what could have been the shortest 40 minute layover EVER...
...first, though, let me back track a bit. I know from my years of Amazing Race watching that if you have a very short connection, the only way to guarentee yourself some hope of catching the plane is to befriend the flight staff, trying to get any assistance, be it distance to your next gate, or even some seats closer to the front of the plane. So, I put this knowledge to use, and asked the woman behind the counter about how far our departure gate in Munich was from where we were landing. The only piece of information she could help us with was "Most 5 minutes...trust me, you will make it"...famous last words...
Throughout the short hour+ flight to Germany, Thuli and I were on pins and needles. It was a small plane (a VERY small plane), so we could dash off quickly and make that "5 minute" journey with time to spare...that was the thought anyways...until we realized that we were getting dropped off in the middle of the tarmac and had to wait for the entire plane to empty onto the charter busses that would take us to the building. There goes 10 minutes...
The bus stopped at Terminal G, and according to the tickets, we were taking off from Terminal H. One terminal over, thats close...right? Wrong...Enter two gates on completely opposite sides of the airport...Start "Amazing Race Jog" now (For those who are not familar, this is a slower pased jog through airports done so because of heavy backpack). Following the signs, with only 15 minutes to go, we turn a corner and find...you guessed it...a passport check!!! Didn't we just get off of an international flight en route to yet another international flight? Someone, please explain!
We got out of there with about 7 minutes until our plane was supposed to take off. At this point, we had the entire Terminal H to jog down...Enter the second passport check (seriously...you can't even make this stuff up...). This was done by our airlines. Why? Still, no clue...Just when we thought we were scott free and ready to run onto the plane, out bad luck streak continued. What's left after a bus ride and two passport checks? Oh, I know...security!!!
Literally, we could see our gate not 15 steps past this final impediment. We each hopped in separate lines, and Thuli got through pretty quickly. Thinking that I had already gone through and left her at the security, she boarded. Unfortunately, I had not...I was stuck behind Mr. "You Mean I Can't Take a Bottle of Shaving Cream on the Plane?"...time to switch lines! But my streak continued, this time behind the " 'Why is it Beeping?'...'Sir, You Didn't Take Your Wallet Out or Your Belt Off' " man...HONESTLY!??!
When you keep hearing the "Final Boarding for Flight xxx to Chicago" and you are stuck behind people, thoughts of just sprinting through the metal detectors, knocking over who or whatever is in your way enter your mind...especially when you haven't seen the family and friends in over 4 months...but, all ideas escaped my head when I was able to go through the security and finally able to get on the plane. WE MADE IT!!!
Phew...that was a long story...I hope the rest off of that list aren't this length...I DO have some studying to do every once in a while!
A Helpful Side Note (do I really have time for these?)
Alright, so over break, many of you said that you had wanted to leave a comment, but it will not let you unless you are logged in. Well, after some trial and error, as well as some research, I think I have found a way!
Ok, so first off, if you wish to make a comment on any of the entries read, click on the "__ Comments" thing underneath the post (the __ refers to some number). Then, on the righthand side, type your comment into the white text box. When you are finished with your comment, SIGN YOUR NAME in the same box. Then, when complete, chose "Anonymous" under that, and then click "Post". If you need an example, click on the "__ Comments" under this to see.
Good luck! Let me know how I'm doing along the way!
Ok, so first off, if you wish to make a comment on any of the entries read, click on the "__ Comments" thing underneath the post (the __ refers to some number). Then, on the righthand side, type your comment into the white text box. When you are finished with your comment, SIGN YOUR NAME in the same box. Then, when complete, chose "Anonymous" under that, and then click "Post". If you need an example, click on the "__ Comments" under this to see.
Good luck! Let me know how I'm doing along the way!
I'm Back and More Crazed Than Ever!
Hello!!! I am officially settled back into my subterranian swellings here at good ol' Franklin College. It has been over one month since my last post (geez...this sounds kinda like a confessional), and I apologize greatly for that. I have SOOOO much to catch you up on...and where to begin!? Well, over the rest of this week, expect some updates about:
- My very "Amazing Race" experience in Munich
- My hometime visits (including one of the best "Ed McMahon" impression on my Grandma!)
- Back to the Grind...Home Edition
- A Very Merry Mirrored Chrismas (I will try my best to get a picture in here to help explain)
- Bienvenidos a Texas y Mexico!
- Who needs a New Year's Eve when you can spend precious time on a tarmac?
- My promoting skills make singers outta lawyers
- Where has the time gone?
- Checkin' off the list...
- A VERY BIG apology...
- Back to the Grind...Swiss Edition
- Reflecting on me not wanting to be here anymore! (boy, I am leaving a lot concealed on that one!)
- Am I ok? I think I am...
- Let's take a look at the schedule!
So, wow...after typing all of this stuff out, I realized...
...I HAVE A LOT TO DO!!! Oy...wish me luck!
- My very "Amazing Race" experience in Munich
- My hometime visits (including one of the best "Ed McMahon" impression on my Grandma!)
- Back to the Grind...Home Edition
- A Very Merry Mirrored Chrismas (I will try my best to get a picture in here to help explain)
- Bienvenidos a Texas y Mexico!
- Who needs a New Year's Eve when you can spend precious time on a tarmac?
- My promoting skills make singers outta lawyers
- Where has the time gone?
- Checkin' off the list...
- A VERY BIG apology...
- Back to the Grind...Swiss Edition
- Reflecting on me not wanting to be here anymore! (boy, I am leaving a lot concealed on that one!)
- Am I ok? I think I am...
- Let's take a look at the schedule!
So, wow...after typing all of this stuff out, I realized...
...I HAVE A LOT TO DO!!! Oy...wish me luck!
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