Monthly Archives: April 2011

April 8, 2011 · 11:42 pm

One last good-bye

On Monday I’ll be starting a new job, so I’ve spent the last week saying good-bye to Madison–the place I’ve called home for almost five years. When I first moved to Madison, I was a little unsure about this kooky city (and that’s putting it nicely), but I’ve since grown to love just about everything about it.

A little corny, but what can you do?

So as I said good-bye to some great girls, my beloved job at The Pet Squad, the Dane County Humane Society and my cozy little studio apartment, I thought about some of the things I’ve loved most about living here.

A few of my favorites:
Vilas Beach – absolutely the best place to be in the summer
Henry Vilas Zoo – I technically don’t like to support zoos, but sometimes I just can’t help it
Dane County Humane Society – a great place to volunteer
Madhatter Bar – a uniquely special place
Opus Lounge – delicious cocktails; Blue Moon is my favorite
Sonic – the banana shakes and tater tots are irresistible (and probably so unhealthy)
The Pet Squad – best job ever
Sundance Cinema at Hilldale Mall – 2 for 1 student deal on Tuesdays
Devil’s Lake (not directly in Madison, but close) – the view is worth the hike
Papa John’s and Domino’s Pizza – obviously these are available in IL, but my parents would die if I ever ordered pizza from here
Farmer’s Market – spicy cheese bread is heaven
Milios – also available in IL, but just not the same on a Friday afternoon with a fellow Madisonian
The Capitol – a view too often taken for granted

[image via We heart it]

A surprising source

I’ll be the first person to admit that I know nothing about sports. While I can occasionally enjoy a game (any game except football) I’ll be the first person to tell you that most sports stars are grossly overpaid and arrogant.

However, when I read this article yesterday about CNN sports legend Nick Charles, I was most definitely moved. As CNN’s original sports anchor (CNN stopped covering sports in 2001), Charles was an incredible sportscaster. He came from nothing and managed to hold on to his celebrated career for 40 years.

Fred Hickman (L) and Nick Charles together on CNN.

And yet, his toughest story to date has been battling cancer. Early this year, Charles decided to stop treatment and spend whatever time he had left with his family. This includes recording birthday videos for his 5-year-old daughter, Giovanna.

Oh, happy 9th birthday.
And I hope you’re listening to Mommy all the time
And I hope you’re listening to music you love,
Maybe traveling to wonderful places.
It’s just such a beautiful world
And so many glorious places to explore and just be captivated by.

Nick Charles today.

Besides Charles’ commitment to his career and his daughter, I was also moved by his “life tips.” I think it’s important for everyone to have their own set of “life lessons” — what are yours?

Don’t get married early.
Travel the world.
Have a love of language and literature.
Learn to love your own company so you’re not needy.
Ask yourself where do you want to be tomorrow? What about in 5 years, 10 years?
What do I require in a relationship? What am I capable of giving?
Enjoy little moments and turn them into ecstasy.
Fasten onto the positives of life.

[images via LA Times and CNN]

Snacktastic

I’m sure you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t enjoy a good snack. While Cuties, Snoopy fruit snacks and Pepperidge Farm flavor blasted goldfish are some of my favorites, there is a new snack on the block that’s just as delicious.

VitaTop muffin tops from the Vitalicious brand. With only 100 calories, a variety of flavors (deep chocolate is the best), plus vitamins, minerals and fiber, this is my new go-to snack. Vitalicious also makes VitaBrownies, VitaCakes and VitaSandwiches, all of which I’m dying to try.

Simply keep frozen until ready to eat.

What’s your go-to snack?

Yum. I swear.

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April 5, 2011 · 10:53 am

A lovely view

This morning I walked a dog whose owners live in a wonderfully modern home with a view of this from their kitchen. Jealous much?

As I stood looking out the window with their goofy dog, I wondered what it would take to get a view like that of my own. I know this particular couple works like crazy, but they’ve managed to build a wonderful home with an even lovelier dog.

Views of my own I can only hope to wake up to someday. It’s funny how water can have such a calming and peaceful effect.

[images via we heart it and burns photography]

A magical moment

Yesterday I attended my very first wedding shower. My mom seemed surprised by this fact, but we don’t have a very big family and when you’re only 23 years old, not too many of your closest friends have gotten married yet. However, after attending yesterday’s event I have to say that I cannot wait until others close to me decide to get married.

Maria–the bride-to-be from yesterday’s shower–truly set the bar high for any future wedding showers I may attend in the future. From the tiny jewels on each place card to the Kate Aspen party favors to the gorgeous Tiffany & Co. necklace each member of the bridal party received, to the delicious Maggiano’s menu and the friendliest strangers my mom and I were lucky enough to sit with, her shower was flawless. Plus the cake was absolutely delicious.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day Maria! You looked beautiful and I can’t wait for the wedding!!