April 13, 2011 · 11:38 pm

Sleep-deprived already?

Waking up every day at 6am is definitely going to take some getting used to. Although I enjoy the fact that waking up early allows you to get a lot done before your day even really begins (in my case that includes walking Frasier and exercising), it’s still somewhat depressing when 10pm rolls around and you’re starting to feel crabby and agitated; a sure sign that bedtime looms near.

So while it’s only Wednesday of my first week working and I’ve got a lot more 6am mornings on my horizon, today just seemed like a sleep-deprived, in-need-of-chocolate kind of day. Despite my craving for this newly discovered flavor of Fudgy Peanut Butter Chip VitaTops, as well as my desire to make these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies, I was equally satisfied with my Panera You Pick 2 Deal that I was able to share with my mom and grandma at the nursing home today. I even convinced my gram to watch HGTV. Now if that isn’t a great way to end the day, I don’t know what is.

[image courtesy of my madison bistro]

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April 12, 2011 · 8:40 pm

A little spring in my step

With the weather finally starting to warm up a little in the Midwest (expected temperatures in the 30s this weekend notwithstanding), all I want to do is stay outside for as long as possible with my dog, Frasier. After the brutal winter we had this year, it’s almost like I’ve forgotten what the sun actually feels like.

For all you dog lovers out there, consider these tips from the ASPCA about how to make the most of your walk. A few of my favorite tips:

*Mix it up! Try taking your dog to new places. He’ll love experiencing the new sights, smells and sounds at a novel location.
*Choose fabulous destinations. If possible, walk to fun places, like friends’ houses or the dog park.
*Walk with buddies. If your dog likes other dogs, consider group walks. You can either borrow a friend’s dog to accompany you, or invite family and friends who have dogs to meet you somewhere.

If you’re feeling extra inspired by the warm weather, you may also want to consider offering a donation to this little guy, Braveheart.

Braveheart

Braveheart was found in a trash bin in Kentucky, and eventually found his way to One Starfish Rehoming Connections in Columbus, Wis. Due to his severe injuries (worm infections and mange) he ended up in the critical care unit of UW Veterinary Care.

Unfortunately, Braveheart’s care is expensive and One Starfish can use all the help they can get. Click here to learn more about Braveheart on Petfinder. And click here to help Braveheart through Facebook and receive updates on his condition. Help give Braveheart some spring in his step!!

[image via Petfinder]

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April 11, 2011 · 9:05 pm

On my mind…

In a nod to one of the cutest blogs I follow–the lil bee–I thought I’d share with you a few things currently on my mind. While my stream of consciousness may never be as developed or thought-provoking as the narrative stylings of William Faulkner or Virginia Woolf, hopefully you’ll be mildly entertained.

Why are Americans so fascinated with the Royal Wedding?
Why am I one of those Americans?
I cannot wait until April 29 – the day of the wedding.
I think I may understand why so many people become comatose in front of the TV after “working” all day.
I wish I had something chocolaty to eat.
I’m so happy I don’t have to do my own taxes.
I wish Frasier could sit at my feet 24/7.
I really need to make a haircut appointment for said smelly dog.
He is not allowed on the bed until he is clean.
I miss the dogs I used to walk every day. I thought about them at 11am this morning – the time I would leave each day for their visits.
I am so grateful to have a job when so many people in this country still don’t.
But why is life so expensive?
I should drink more water, but all I really want is a juice box.
Well, Capri Sun to be exact.
What’s better – a juice pouch or a juice box?
What time do I need to go to bed so that I can wake up at 6am tomorrow and exercise?
What would Jillian Michaels do if I didn’t follow along to Six Week Six Pack?
What would life be like if I could go shopping any time I want, buy whatever I want and not have to worry about how much anything costs?
Instead of clothes, I just want to buy lots of books. And own a house with a huge library with lots and lots of built-in bookshelves. And a really cool sliding ladder so I can reach all of the books.

What’s on your mind this evening?

[image via we heart it]

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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]

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April 7, 2011 · 11:01 pm

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]

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