Ahhh yes. I may have taken a short break from the blog, but I had an even shorter break from work. Most everyone around here is gone until after January 1st. It's very quiet around here, but also very dull. There is no work to be done at ALL.
So! I spent Christmas with my parents, grandma (local), cousin (+husband and twin 4-year-olds, up from San Antonio), aunt (+husband, local), uncle (+wife, down from Illinois) and various other relatives and family friends. Our Christmas Eve festivities were over in Dallas at my aunt's house. We had delicious spinach, pear, and cranberry salad with my grandma's famous veggie soup and delicious homemade cornbread. Dessert was a variety of miniature cakes and some delicious apple crumble. Hats off to my aunt, who did most of the cooking. Christmas day, somewhere between 20 and 25 people showed up at my parents' house to consume ham, chicken, stuffing, green beans, corn, potatoes, deviled eggs, noodles, and oh so much pie. The pre-food food included home made caramel popcorn, mixed nuts, and our family's famous (ok none of this stuff is famous, but it's famous to us!) holiday punch. I could tell you what's in the punch, but then I'd have to kill you. With my fists.
Two days with the twins, and I was about ready to collapse. I don't know how my cousin has the energy. She and her husband are great parents. Anyway, we talked, ate, put a puzzle together, sang carols, and played with munchkins, and in my mind, that makes just about the best way to spend Christmas.
(Also presents: new printer, wireless awesome mouse, fuzzy socks and pillow, some moolah, two shirts, a ring, some bracelets, and um... yeah i think that about covers it?)
I hope everyone else had a fantastic Christmas, and here's hoping the New Year goes even better than this year. See you in '08!
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Neither food nor event. Please ignore.
I'm rather bored at work today, so I started going through my brain and remembering websites I visited once or twice and then forgot.
www.freeburmarangers.org
The part of me that still cares about humanity wishes someone would put a stop to that murderous dictatorship and let the elected leadership take its rightful place at the head of the Burmese government. There is another part of me, however, that realizes no one really cares about freedom anymore, only profit. And then there's my inner-opportunist, who realizes what a good thing this would be for the U.S. in terms of global image. We would just have to spin it right. Now go back to the kind part, who shakes her head in disgust that the other parts of me could even think such heartless things.
It's times like this I wish I had some power.
www.freeburmarangers.org
The part of me that still cares about humanity wishes someone would put a stop to that murderous dictatorship and let the elected leadership take its rightful place at the head of the Burmese government. There is another part of me, however, that realizes no one really cares about freedom anymore, only profit. And then there's my inner-opportunist, who realizes what a good thing this would be for the U.S. in terms of global image. We would just have to spin it right. Now go back to the kind part, who shakes her head in disgust that the other parts of me could even think such heartless things.
It's times like this I wish I had some power.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Pretty Lights, tasty bites
Last night, as I drove home, I took a different way back from the Super Target and ended up lost in a slightly wealthier neighborhood. I'd just like to say that people with a lot of money sure do know how to string Christmas lights. I mean.. do they hire someone to do this or are they just inherently awesome at it? It is a great mystery to me, because I know if *I* suddenly came into a large sum of money, I still wouldn't know the first thing about putting up Christmas lights on my house. Then again, maybe those people just did it as kids. My parents just put out a wreath and some animatronic deer.
That's another thing. When did Christmas become universally tacky? I remember, as a child, looking at all the houses on my street and thinking "These are really pretty decorations, except for the one guy who has orange lights all over his roof in the shape of a longhorn. He is dumb." Now, I will go home to my parents' house and think "If I see one more half-inflated, stereotypical Santa balloon, I'm going to kill someone." It was like this last year. It will be like this forever, until we eliminate the blowup decoration industry. Even my dad, who has never expressed much sentiment about such things, agrees that blowup snowmen and Santas must die.
Oh yeah. this is a blog about doin and eatin stuff, so.....I ordered Chinese food a couple of days ago from Asia Bowl over near the Ridgemar Mall. I've gotta say, I'm glad I got something other than shrimp fried rice, because their shrimp cashew dish is VERY TASTY! It's a chain, but who cares? Tasty food is tasty food, authentic or not.
http://www.asiabowl.com/
That's another thing. When did Christmas become universally tacky? I remember, as a child, looking at all the houses on my street and thinking "These are really pretty decorations, except for the one guy who has orange lights all over his roof in the shape of a longhorn. He is dumb." Now, I will go home to my parents' house and think "If I see one more half-inflated, stereotypical Santa balloon, I'm going to kill someone." It was like this last year. It will be like this forever, until we eliminate the blowup decoration industry. Even my dad, who has never expressed much sentiment about such things, agrees that blowup snowmen and Santas must die.
Oh yeah. this is a blog about doin and eatin stuff, so.....I ordered Chinese food a couple of days ago from Asia Bowl over near the Ridgemar Mall. I've gotta say, I'm glad I got something other than shrimp fried rice, because their shrimp cashew dish is VERY TASTY! It's a chain, but who cares? Tasty food is tasty food, authentic or not.
http://www.asiabowl.com/
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Thanksgiving, chili, and fire
Good morning! Happy Holidays! I was going to post around Thanksgiving, but I haven't been motivated as such. You know how reptiles stop being active when it's cold? I begin to wonder if I am not the same. It got down into the 30s last weekend, which is awesome, but I'm stubborn about turning on my heater, so I got to look like a big poofy marshmallow in my blankets and fuzzy things!
Anyway! So we had a Thanksgiving potluck at my parents' house: ham, mashed potatoes, copper carrots, green bean casserole, rolls, and pies--Pumpkin and Pecan! It was quite a delicious spread. The couple of days following Thanksgiving I ate Egg Salad Sandwiches at the Gingerman for dinner. On Sunday, however, I got quite a treat!
Frye and I went over to Brian and Morgan's place (James was being antisocial) and ate some delicious chili made by the master chef and his lovely assistant (Frye). They had a nice warm fire going, which heated their entire apartment. Cute little Cordy was out first, and then once we started playing with the fire, they brought out Bina, the calm doggie. As an aside, dark chocolate makes the best s'mores. I will remember that for next time. Oh yes.
Well, that about wraps up my eclectic post for today. I should really do some work.
Anyway! So we had a Thanksgiving potluck at my parents' house: ham, mashed potatoes, copper carrots, green bean casserole, rolls, and pies--Pumpkin and Pecan! It was quite a delicious spread. The couple of days following Thanksgiving I ate Egg Salad Sandwiches at the Gingerman for dinner. On Sunday, however, I got quite a treat!
Frye and I went over to Brian and Morgan's place (James was being antisocial) and ate some delicious chili made by the master chef and his lovely assistant (Frye). They had a nice warm fire going, which heated their entire apartment. Cute little Cordy was out first, and then once we started playing with the fire, they brought out Bina, the calm doggie. As an aside, dark chocolate makes the best s'mores. I will remember that for next time. Oh yes.
Well, that about wraps up my eclectic post for today. I should really do some work.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Spiraling Out of Control
I forgot to post again. Bonk. Sorry.
So Sunday afternoon, Leah (http://chappaboogie.blogspot.com/) invited James, Frye, and me out for a lunch with her mother at a vegan restaurant called Spiral Diner. It should be noted that none of us are vegan, or even vegetarian. So keep that in mind.
The "greeter" at Spiral Diner is a statue of a robot thing made of a steel cage entwined with wood. (Oh how clever, trees are the organs HAR HAR) I knew I was in for a treat when the guy seating customers looked like a biker, but talked like a hippie. Unsurprisingly, the tiny little place was packed full of people. Most looked like standard "indie" people, but there were a few people (myself included) who did not look like they belonged. In the interest of an unbiased opinion of the food, I looked pointedly down at my menu and tried not to read the articles on the walls, most of which dealt with "environmental" issues in the DFW area.
The menu tries to pretend it isn't vegan, with menu items such as "Vegan Meatballs" and "Philly Cheez Steak." There are no meats or steaks involved with either dish. They even have a "Tofu Scramble" with "VEGAN BACON." I'm going to repeat that. VEGAN BACON.
OH HELL NO, you did NOT JUST MAKE FAKE BACON!?!!?!????!~!~!asldhfkaushdif
Ahem. Bacon is sacred to me. Sorry.
So I got the "Chik'nless Salad Sandwich." Here's the description from their website, "Diced Seitan (wheat-meat) tossed with a mayo/mustard dressing, spices, chopped apples, cranberries and pecans. Topped off with lettuce, tomato and a hint of vegan mayo. Served on Toasted Organic Multi-grain Bread."
Ok excuse me a moment while I laugh my ass off at you hippies. You're trying to make this sound as much like a chicken salad sandwich as possible, even going so far as to describe its main ingredient as "WHEAT MEAT." Why are you making substitutes for meat? I mean... aren't you basically saying "Well we don't like meat, but we really need to eat meat." I just... buh.. anyway.
That said, the sandwich wasn't bad at all. It came with potato salad or corn chips, and I chose the potato salad. Also pretty tasty. I was a little surprised, actually. If they hadn't slapped me in the face with the words "vegan" and "organic" and had, instead, just said "it's got all the crap you like in chicken salad without the chicken" I would have been a happy camper. I have no problem eating meatless food as long as you don't try to preach at me.
After I finished eating, I chanced a look around at the walls. To my immediate right was a great little article about some hippies saving a tree. On top of the wall sat a Jesus action figure with a little chef hat. Bit presumptuous, but eh. Then we went up front to pay. Biker Dude was there, and sitting next to the register was a vegan propaganda book, the title of which I have forgotten.
Just in case all the meatless food around you wasn't enough of a tip off, here's a reminder that you are at hippie central, and your leather wallet and purse are not appreciated.
All in all, it was an amusing experience, and I'd eat the food again, though I'd be reluctant to try any of their other "meat-like" products, and I cannot fathom eating grilled tofu. Eh...I'm cynical and opinionated, so here's their website. Decide for yourself.
Spiral Diner
So Sunday afternoon, Leah (http://chappaboogie.blogspot.com/) invited James, Frye, and me out for a lunch with her mother at a vegan restaurant called Spiral Diner. It should be noted that none of us are vegan, or even vegetarian. So keep that in mind.
The "greeter" at Spiral Diner is a statue of a robot thing made of a steel cage entwined with wood. (Oh how clever, trees are the organs HAR HAR) I knew I was in for a treat when the guy seating customers looked like a biker, but talked like a hippie. Unsurprisingly, the tiny little place was packed full of people. Most looked like standard "indie" people, but there were a few people (myself included) who did not look like they belonged. In the interest of an unbiased opinion of the food, I looked pointedly down at my menu and tried not to read the articles on the walls, most of which dealt with "environmental" issues in the DFW area.
The menu tries to pretend it isn't vegan, with menu items such as "Vegan Meatballs" and "Philly Cheez Steak." There are no meats or steaks involved with either dish. They even have a "Tofu Scramble" with "VEGAN BACON." I'm going to repeat that. VEGAN BACON.
OH HELL NO, you did NOT JUST MAKE FAKE BACON!?!!?!????!~!~!asldhfkaushdif
Ahem. Bacon is sacred to me. Sorry.
So I got the "Chik'nless Salad Sandwich." Here's the description from their website, "Diced Seitan (wheat-meat) tossed with a mayo/mustard dressing, spices, chopped apples, cranberries and pecans. Topped off with lettuce, tomato and a hint of vegan mayo. Served on Toasted Organic Multi-grain Bread."
Ok excuse me a moment while I laugh my ass off at you hippies. You're trying to make this sound as much like a chicken salad sandwich as possible, even going so far as to describe its main ingredient as "WHEAT MEAT." Why are you making substitutes for meat? I mean... aren't you basically saying "Well we don't like meat, but we really need to eat meat." I just... buh.. anyway.
That said, the sandwich wasn't bad at all. It came with potato salad or corn chips, and I chose the potato salad. Also pretty tasty. I was a little surprised, actually. If they hadn't slapped me in the face with the words "vegan" and "organic" and had, instead, just said "it's got all the crap you like in chicken salad without the chicken" I would have been a happy camper. I have no problem eating meatless food as long as you don't try to preach at me.
After I finished eating, I chanced a look around at the walls. To my immediate right was a great little article about some hippies saving a tree. On top of the wall sat a Jesus action figure with a little chef hat. Bit presumptuous, but eh. Then we went up front to pay. Biker Dude was there, and sitting next to the register was a vegan propaganda book, the title of which I have forgotten.
Just in case all the meatless food around you wasn't enough of a tip off, here's a reminder that you are at hippie central, and your leather wallet and purse are not appreciated.
All in all, it was an amusing experience, and I'd eat the food again, though I'd be reluctant to try any of their other "meat-like" products, and I cannot fathom eating grilled tofu. Eh...I'm cynical and opinionated, so here's their website. Decide for yourself.
Spiral Diner
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Nihonryoori o tabemasen :(
Alas and misfortune!
Mikado Japanese restaurant is no more. An attempted trip to my favorite Japanese place (read: only place with good yakisoba) last night forced me to turn instead to Taverna, which is Italian. I picked at some seafood ricotta with broccoli and sun-dried tomatoes, but the cream sauce just wasn't what I wanted last night. The bread at Taverna was quite tasty, and the waiter was prompt, but aloof. The atmosphere is alright. It's dark, like a romantic dinner should be, but the music was all over the place, with that "when the moon hits your eyes..." song setting my mood to "annoyed" as soon as my drink arrived.
I was disappointed when I arrived, and the food just wasn't worth $19.
Ehhh I have nothing else to say. I am so sad. I might go cry in the corner.
Mikado Japanese restaurant is no more. An attempted trip to my favorite Japanese place (read: only place with good yakisoba) last night forced me to turn instead to Taverna, which is Italian. I picked at some seafood ricotta with broccoli and sun-dried tomatoes, but the cream sauce just wasn't what I wanted last night. The bread at Taverna was quite tasty, and the waiter was prompt, but aloof. The atmosphere is alright. It's dark, like a romantic dinner should be, but the music was all over the place, with that "when the moon hits your eyes..." song setting my mood to "annoyed" as soon as my drink arrived.
I was disappointed when I arrived, and the food just wasn't worth $19.
Ehhh I have nothing else to say. I am so sad. I might go cry in the corner.
Friday, November 16, 2007
FTC in the 'House.
I'm making a note here
HUGE SUCCESS.
I introduced my dad to the Bangkok House place last night. I think he was pleased. FTC was out in full force, scolding us for not eating everything, and threatening us playfully in broken English. "You betta take that home, or I gon' cry and hit you with spatula!" The mute came by and tried to speak words, but they weren't words. They were noises. So there you have it. You can ask my dad.
"It was good, but they sure do hover around the table..."
YES THEY DO! EEEE!
HUGE SUCCESS.
I introduced my dad to the Bangkok House place last night. I think he was pleased. FTC was out in full force, scolding us for not eating everything, and threatening us playfully in broken English. "You betta take that home, or I gon' cry and hit you with spatula!" The mute came by and tried to speak words, but they weren't words. They were noises. So there you have it. You can ask my dad.
"It was good, but they sure do hover around the table..."
YES THEY DO! EEEE!
Monday, November 12, 2007
The most gorgeous day ever.
Good afternoon, Internet Denizens. I'm writing on this happy Monday to report that I have the the best lunchtime view ever. The only thing that mars the landscape is the horrid squealing of geese/ducks. It may be almost 80, but who cares? I'm sitting on a porch in the shade, overlooking trees, a grassy field, and a river. There's a soft breeze blowing--not enough to muss my hair, but enough to ensure my body temperature does not rise to uncomfortable levels.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is a vast improvement over my mood of previous hours.
I love you, lunch hour.
That is all.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is a vast improvement over my mood of previous hours.
I love you, lunch hour.
That is all.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
The Spices Must Flow (and be spicy)
This weekend marked the first time since I went to Orlando (before this blog's conception) that I had good Indian food. Saturday afternoon, Morgan, Brian, and I all piled into James' car and journeyed to the faraway land of Plano (I think. It's all fuzzy up there once I get past the Grapevine Mills Mall.) to a place called Sitar. By the time we got there and into the restaurant, my stomach was rumbling, and the smells were driving me crazy! Points already for amazing smells.
The atmosphere is a little on the dark side, but that's alright. The waiter showed us to some seats and took our drink orders, but didn't bring us menus. Oh yes. It's a buffet! My thoughts were skeptical at first, but oh boy was I surprised when I went and actually looked at the buffet. They had SOOO much tasty stuff. They didn't have chicken tikka masala or chicken korma or anything familiar, but sweet JEEBUS was it ever tasty. I actually can't remember the names of the meals, but they did have some very tasty Nan (that's a kind of flatbread, if you are unaware). I managed to shovel away a plate and a half of food before I decided to stop.
As if the absolutely mouthwatering Indian wasn't enough, my friends and I then journeyed to the Cheesecake Factory to partake in some $7 pieces of cheesecake and other assorted things. The strawberry shortcake I had was pretty good, but I've had better. Their cheesecake is still pretty fantastic though. MMMMMMmmmm cheesecake.
In the end, I'm far more impressed with Sitar than with Cheesecake Factory. I don't have any real rating system, but suffice it to say that I'm dating an Indian food restaurant. Yeah.
Map to Sitar Indian Cuisine.
The atmosphere is a little on the dark side, but that's alright. The waiter showed us to some seats and took our drink orders, but didn't bring us menus. Oh yes. It's a buffet! My thoughts were skeptical at first, but oh boy was I surprised when I went and actually looked at the buffet. They had SOOO much tasty stuff. They didn't have chicken tikka masala or chicken korma or anything familiar, but sweet JEEBUS was it ever tasty. I actually can't remember the names of the meals, but they did have some very tasty Nan (that's a kind of flatbread, if you are unaware). I managed to shovel away a plate and a half of food before I decided to stop.
As if the absolutely mouthwatering Indian wasn't enough, my friends and I then journeyed to the Cheesecake Factory to partake in some $7 pieces of cheesecake and other assorted things. The strawberry shortcake I had was pretty good, but I've had better. Their cheesecake is still pretty fantastic though. MMMMMMmmmm cheesecake.
In the end, I'm far more impressed with Sitar than with Cheesecake Factory. I don't have any real rating system, but suffice it to say that I'm dating an Indian food restaurant. Yeah.
Map to Sitar Indian Cuisine.
Monday, November 5, 2007
They need 'E' on the end of everything.
Good morning, and welcome to another edition of How...inappropriate. Today is this writer's birthday, and I'm feelin fancy in quite a fancy mood!
Yesterday my family and I ventured to the magical land of Stinktown (Dallas, TX...no offense aunt Brandy) to celebrate my birthday! It was planned somewhat last-minute, so I did not get to pick where I ate. Luckily, I have similar restaurant taste with my family, so the Grand Lux Cafe worked nicely.
My parents and I procured a table, and a few moments later the rest of the group arrived. Fiascos ensued as we tried to somehow block the sun from glaring off of things.
We failed, ultimately, but as drinks arrived, we settled down and began to chat.
That, however, is not the point of the story. I want to talk about the Grand Lux. The place is situated in the Galleria mall, which is itself a monstrosity of consumerism and a monument to efficient valet parking, and is decorated with gold columns and fancy things. The kitchen is ENORMOHUGE, as evidenced by the size and variety of the menu. You can get Thai Chicken Pizza (my second choice, which I will get if I ever go there again) and a plain old club sandwich. You can get an omelette, giant chocolate cake, or a Caesar salad. Or you can do what I did and get the amazingly fantastic Short Rib Sloppy Joe. It was big enough for two meals, and that's exactly what ended up happening. I took my first bite of that sweet, tender, delicious short rib sloppy joe, and knew immediately that I had selected the best possible meal on that menu. Just talking about it makes me drool a little. Just a little though...I'm at work!
Anyway, Grand Lux Cafe gets my full approval. Go there to eat if you're ever at the Galleria in Dallas, TX or at any of their other locations.
Their website can be found here!
Yesterday my family and I ventured to the magical land of Stinktown (Dallas, TX...no offense aunt Brandy) to celebrate my birthday! It was planned somewhat last-minute, so I did not get to pick where I ate. Luckily, I have similar restaurant taste with my family, so the Grand Lux Cafe worked nicely.
My parents and I procured a table, and a few moments later the rest of the group arrived. Fiascos ensued as we tried to somehow block the sun from glaring off of things.
We failed, ultimately, but as drinks arrived, we settled down and began to chat.
That, however, is not the point of the story. I want to talk about the Grand Lux. The place is situated in the Galleria mall, which is itself a monstrosity of consumerism and a monument to efficient valet parking, and is decorated with gold columns and fancy things. The kitchen is ENORMOHUGE, as evidenced by the size and variety of the menu. You can get Thai Chicken Pizza (my second choice, which I will get if I ever go there again) and a plain old club sandwich. You can get an omelette, giant chocolate cake, or a Caesar salad. Or you can do what I did and get the amazingly fantastic Short Rib Sloppy Joe. It was big enough for two meals, and that's exactly what ended up happening. I took my first bite of that sweet, tender, delicious short rib sloppy joe, and knew immediately that I had selected the best possible meal on that menu. Just talking about it makes me drool a little. Just a little though...I'm at work!
Anyway, Grand Lux Cafe gets my full approval. Go there to eat if you're ever at the Galleria in Dallas, TX or at any of their other locations.
Their website can be found here!
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Liquor doesn't make it okay.
So yesterday was eventful. I went to lunch with James and his friend Jeff (the foreigner from California) and bought a new anime while I was out. In the evening, I went as arm candy to the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball. Technically, the birthday is Nov. 10th, but apparently the hotel was booked then.
When we arrived at the hotel, there were maybe 100 people milling about down in the ballroom area. My date recognized a few people from his...squadron? wing? (I can't remember the hierarchy) so we went over for introductions. Jason got a beer at the open bar (free draught beer until it ran out), and I abstained. I could see where this was going before the event even kicked off. We went and got our picture taken. I looked fan-fucking-tastic as always. (I'm sorry, you'll have to come back later. There's a beautiful woman in my spoon.)
Once through the picture line, it was time to head inside to our table, so that is what we did (my date tried to get another beer, but they claimed the bar was closed until after the ceremony). I shook hands with many people last night, but their names and ranks are long forgotten.
We spotted our table in the VEEEEERY back of the room, next to the projector screen. My date didn't get tickets until the last minute. As it turns out, we were plopped at a table with a very odd family. It was a husband (army man) and wife, her sister, the girls' father (retired Marine), their mother (active duty marine) and some random guy with them whose ties to the family I never figured out. Someone's 16-year-old daughter was there too, but I'm not sure to whom she belonged. One of the women was loud and obnoxious, and was really excited about the Nascar races taking place this weekend. Jason and I exchanged a look, which was the first of many throughout the course of our evening with the table.
The pageantry began with a prayer and the marine corps hymn or somesuch, and a "birthday" message from the head of the Marines. He looked just like every other CEO giving a generic speech to employees "Oo-rah we're doing a good job, keep it up, and don't be retarded." Okay, he didn't tell them to not be retarded, but I wish he would have.
At this point it might be prudent to point out that I don't think ALL Marines are jerks. My date was perfectly agreeable and polite (I know he was trying very hard. Thanks for not embarrassing me.), but even at such a formal affair, most of the men wandering around were less polite. Their dates/wives weren't much better though. If you're wondering why kids pick up swears at a young age, just ask them if their parents are in the military.
Anyway, I digress. I got to dress up at a nice event, learn a bit about Marine Corps history, eat some really tasty chicken and beef (roast chicken with creamy pesto sauce and juicy beef with a balsamic vinegar sauce...OH YES), and ended up babysitting drunk Marines.
After the food, we jumped from hotel room to hotel room where several groups of people were having parties. Someone staying in the hotel called in a noise complaint on us, and a cop came and told us to get out of the hall. This is when I sighed and realized my night was going to go on forever. We left the hotel after picking up the pictures, and I drove his car downtown to meet up with his buddies at the Flying Saucer.
At this point I wasn't really having what you'd call "a good time," so I got a pint o' me favorite beer and chatted with one of the other dates (aka designated drivers) for awhile. This one is one of those "blonde bombshell" types. She's a senior at TCU (my alma mater) and I would have bet good money she is in a sorority. Still, it was either chat with her or talk to the incredibly awkward thin girl who is probably as nerdy as me. If we're going purely on couples that look good, she and I should have switched dates.
Some guy's cousin showed up with his snobby-looking ladyfriend and wanted to buy everyone beers, but no one really wanted beers. In fact, the atmosphere became much less chill and fun after he arrived. So the tall Marine whose date was the sorority girl decided we were going to Pete's Piano Bar. I have long wanted to go there, but these circumstances were less-than-ideal. Off we go, however, because I'm just the arm candy and I'm trying to let Jason have his fun night out on the town. Between the 'Saucer and Pete's, the men had their hands shaken MANY MANY TIMES. I had mine shaken a couple of times, but it was awkward, because I'm not actually a "military wife" as these people seemed to think (in spite of my lack of ANY proper identifying jewelry on my hands).
Upon our arrival at Pete's, we suffered through another gauntlet of handshakes on our way up to the bar, at which point that guy's cousin bought everyone tequila shots. Someone had to drink mine, and I got laughed at just a little because I didn't want to take a cab instead of just NOT DRINK. First of all, I hate tequila and all things associated with it. Second, I don't think people understand what "designated driver" means. Good grief. It was at this point I decided I didn't want to be a Marine Corps groupie anymore. I mentioned the jerkitude earlier, but it becomes exponentially worse as more booze is consumed.
Or maybe I just don't like large groups of drunk, burly men. In the end, all I can say is that I am well pleased by the fact that no one puked on anything I own or borrowed from Morgan. The evening wasn't a total waste. It did feel good to be arm candy, and, like everything else I do, it's fodder for stories later ;)!
Oh yeah, and since I generally talk about food here, I'll go ahead give the Hyatt Regency at DFW Airport's caterers high marks for their delicious chicken and beef (the beef was better), but low marks on refilling my tea.
When we arrived at the hotel, there were maybe 100 people milling about down in the ballroom area. My date recognized a few people from his...squadron? wing? (I can't remember the hierarchy) so we went over for introductions. Jason got a beer at the open bar (free draught beer until it ran out), and I abstained. I could see where this was going before the event even kicked off. We went and got our picture taken. I looked fan-fucking-tastic as always. (I'm sorry, you'll have to come back later. There's a beautiful woman in my spoon.)
Once through the picture line, it was time to head inside to our table, so that is what we did (my date tried to get another beer, but they claimed the bar was closed until after the ceremony). I shook hands with many people last night, but their names and ranks are long forgotten.
We spotted our table in the VEEEEERY back of the room, next to the projector screen. My date didn't get tickets until the last minute. As it turns out, we were plopped at a table with a very odd family. It was a husband (army man) and wife, her sister, the girls' father (retired Marine), their mother (active duty marine) and some random guy with them whose ties to the family I never figured out. Someone's 16-year-old daughter was there too, but I'm not sure to whom she belonged. One of the women was loud and obnoxious, and was really excited about the Nascar races taking place this weekend. Jason and I exchanged a look, which was the first of many throughout the course of our evening with the table.
The pageantry began with a prayer and the marine corps hymn or somesuch, and a "birthday" message from the head of the Marines. He looked just like every other CEO giving a generic speech to employees "Oo-rah we're doing a good job, keep it up, and don't be retarded." Okay, he didn't tell them to not be retarded, but I wish he would have.
At this point it might be prudent to point out that I don't think ALL Marines are jerks. My date was perfectly agreeable and polite (I know he was trying very hard. Thanks for not embarrassing me.), but even at such a formal affair, most of the men wandering around were less polite. Their dates/wives weren't much better though. If you're wondering why kids pick up swears at a young age, just ask them if their parents are in the military.
Anyway, I digress. I got to dress up at a nice event, learn a bit about Marine Corps history, eat some really tasty chicken and beef (roast chicken with creamy pesto sauce and juicy beef with a balsamic vinegar sauce...OH YES), and ended up babysitting drunk Marines.
After the food, we jumped from hotel room to hotel room where several groups of people were having parties. Someone staying in the hotel called in a noise complaint on us, and a cop came and told us to get out of the hall. This is when I sighed and realized my night was going to go on forever. We left the hotel after picking up the pictures, and I drove his car downtown to meet up with his buddies at the Flying Saucer.
At this point I wasn't really having what you'd call "a good time," so I got a pint o' me favorite beer and chatted with one of the other dates (aka designated drivers) for awhile. This one is one of those "blonde bombshell" types. She's a senior at TCU (my alma mater) and I would have bet good money she is in a sorority. Still, it was either chat with her or talk to the incredibly awkward thin girl who is probably as nerdy as me. If we're going purely on couples that look good, she and I should have switched dates.
Some guy's cousin showed up with his snobby-looking ladyfriend and wanted to buy everyone beers, but no one really wanted beers. In fact, the atmosphere became much less chill and fun after he arrived. So the tall Marine whose date was the sorority girl decided we were going to Pete's Piano Bar. I have long wanted to go there, but these circumstances were less-than-ideal. Off we go, however, because I'm just the arm candy and I'm trying to let Jason have his fun night out on the town. Between the 'Saucer and Pete's, the men had their hands shaken MANY MANY TIMES. I had mine shaken a couple of times, but it was awkward, because I'm not actually a "military wife" as these people seemed to think (in spite of my lack of ANY proper identifying jewelry on my hands).
Upon our arrival at Pete's, we suffered through another gauntlet of handshakes on our way up to the bar, at which point that guy's cousin bought everyone tequila shots. Someone had to drink mine, and I got laughed at just a little because I didn't want to take a cab instead of just NOT DRINK. First of all, I hate tequila and all things associated with it. Second, I don't think people understand what "designated driver" means. Good grief. It was at this point I decided I didn't want to be a Marine Corps groupie anymore. I mentioned the jerkitude earlier, but it becomes exponentially worse as more booze is consumed.
Or maybe I just don't like large groups of drunk, burly men. In the end, all I can say is that I am well pleased by the fact that no one puked on anything I own or borrowed from Morgan. The evening wasn't a total waste. It did feel good to be arm candy, and, like everything else I do, it's fodder for stories later ;)!
Oh yeah, and since I generally talk about food here, I'll go ahead give the Hyatt Regency at DFW Airport's caterers high marks for their delicious chicken and beef (the beef was better), but low marks on refilling my tea.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Thai Food
Last night, I trekked to Bangkok House Thai Food Restaurant. I will start by saying "sweet jeebus, the food is so good."
I entered and was told to sit anywhere by a kindly, older-looking gentleman. I decided to get the weekly special, which happened to be my favorite Thai dish: Peanut curry pork. I enjoyed the quiet time (read: i wasn't at work) and people-watched while I waited. This proved interesting. There were, perhaps, four families in the restaurant: a couple across the room was holding hands and talking quietly. The place wasn't exactly suited for "sweet nothings" but eh...to each his own.
The patrons were not, however, the most interesting part of the evening. No. Far more entertaining were the Tall American Proprietor (TLP), the Fat Thai Cook (FTC), and the Lumbering Mute Waitress (LMW). A trifecta of comedy, if you ask me. TLP liked to talk quite a lot, but awkwardly. "I like Peanut Chicken, but pork is okay, too," said he when I commented on the deliciousness of the food. He then stood for a few minutes before moving on to another table, which also commented on the quality of the meal. FTC came out (waddled out) and took another table's order, then complained jovially (thickly-accented) about how it was "his job" and that he was "lazy." I saw LMW walking around in her chili-pepper apron and cartoon-splattered pajama pants, but did not realize she was mute until late in the meal. Near the end, I looked up and discovered her staring at me. I determined that she wanted the check, which had been dropped off previously by FTC. Her eyes were too close together. I'm sure she's very sweet, but by this point it was apparent that she wasn't all there.
And so, as I often do, I made up some stories in my head about them but, since I'm at work, I'll save those for another post.
Suffice it to say, with the rather creepy ambiance and the delicious food, Bangkok House Thai Restaurant gets my full approval.
Map to restaurant
I entered and was told to sit anywhere by a kindly, older-looking gentleman. I decided to get the weekly special, which happened to be my favorite Thai dish: Peanut curry pork. I enjoyed the quiet time (read: i wasn't at work) and people-watched while I waited. This proved interesting. There were, perhaps, four families in the restaurant: a couple across the room was holding hands and talking quietly. The place wasn't exactly suited for "sweet nothings" but eh...to each his own.
The patrons were not, however, the most interesting part of the evening. No. Far more entertaining were the Tall American Proprietor (TLP), the Fat Thai Cook (FTC), and the Lumbering Mute Waitress (LMW). A trifecta of comedy, if you ask me. TLP liked to talk quite a lot, but awkwardly. "I like Peanut Chicken, but pork is okay, too," said he when I commented on the deliciousness of the food. He then stood for a few minutes before moving on to another table, which also commented on the quality of the meal. FTC came out (waddled out) and took another table's order, then complained jovially (thickly-accented) about how it was "his job" and that he was "lazy." I saw LMW walking around in her chili-pepper apron and cartoon-splattered pajama pants, but did not realize she was mute until late in the meal. Near the end, I looked up and discovered her staring at me. I determined that she wanted the check, which had been dropped off previously by FTC. Her eyes were too close together. I'm sure she's very sweet, but by this point it was apparent that she wasn't all there.
And so, as I often do, I made up some stories in my head about them but, since I'm at work, I'll save those for another post.
Suffice it to say, with the rather creepy ambiance and the delicious food, Bangkok House Thai Restaurant gets my full approval.
Map to restaurant
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Inauguration of Genius
Good afternoon, fellow internet denizens. I extend my hand in warmest greeting. Please enfold me in warmth and hugs. I will begin posting sometime today. For now, however, I am distracted by something shiny over THERE!
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