Food crack

I love food. I can't cook, but I sure love it. And I always make sure my pantry is stocked and of course, try to stock it with food that is healthy.

But there is some food that I cannot resist. Food that I swear is laced with crack because once I get near it, I cannot control myself.

It's like "When Animals Attack." I've talked about my love of candy but I wanted to take a moment and reflect on the wonderous food that I have trouble saying no to.

And yes, some of them are healthy (but not all of them!)

Some of these food crack vices may include some kind of popcorn and candy and yes, there is a fruit option.

So go over to my Vegas/BlogHer buddy Katelin's site to check out my list and let me know what foods you can't resist either.

An ode to cupcakes

If it came down to cake or pie.....it would be a tough call but I'd probably go with cake. I mean, I love some sweet apple pie but I do really love cake a lot.

And because I can't walk around eating a piece of cake on the street (it would look really nasty), I can eat cupcakes outdoors and in Chicago, cupcakes are queen.

I get spoiled by all the cupcake options in Chicago because Wisconsin doesn't have a formal cupcake shop! I know, trust me, I looked and was shocked at that realization.

But, I have thoroughly sampled several cupcake options in Chicago and here are my feelings on them:

Must visit:

• Sugar Bliss (Loop) - The best red velvet cupcake I've ever had. Period. Frosting sticks to your lips and the chocolate mint cupcake is also great. It's like a Thin Mint, but in a cake form! Also, my parents LOVE this place.

• Molly's (Lincoln Park) - Another great place for a quick stop. With free glasses of water, swing chairs and make-your-own cupcake selections, it's got something for everyone.

• Southport Grocery (Lakeview) - Very affordable ($2/each) but few flavors to pick from. Doesn't bother me though, I love everything I've had there.

• Swirlz (Lincoln Park) - Humongous cupcakes with a ton of varieties to pick from. Also, very blogger-friendly. They supplied cupcakes for the BlogHer Chicago meet up and the owner was SO sweet to us when we visited last summer as a group. Also offers gluten-free cupcakes that are very tasty.

So close:

• More (Loop) - The only place in Chicago I know with savory cupcake (like B.L.T.) but the last few I've bought here have been dry, and expensive. Two things I don't like.

• Sweet Mandy B's (Lincoln Park) - This one is the "doll" of Chicago, very well known, and a group of us bloggers visited it last year. The cupcakes are good, but man that frosting is sweet. Like stomach ache-inducing.

• Bittersweet (Lakeview) - Awesome atmosphere but it only serves the "cupcake of the day" flavor. So if you don't like the selection, there's no other cupcake options available. Fortunately, there are other sweets to pick from :)

• Phoebe's Cupcakes (Lakeview) - I was thrilled when a cupcake shop opened right near my house and the staff is so nice whenever I go in but the last few cupcakes I've had there have been dry and the frosting has tasted a little off. But I won't write it off just yet.

So those are my thoughts on the cupcake shops in Chicago, as you can see, I've done my research. Oh and one cupcake company even delivers? That is dangerous.

Whenever I go to a new cupcake place, the two I always get are: red velvet and chocolate with vanilla frosting. Those are my favorite :)

What's your favorite flavor?

Also, so you don't think I'm just cupcake snob, I'm guest posting over at my friend Maris' blog In Good Taste. My guest post includes a recipe and photos from my cupcake-making adventure.

Trust me, they're really good!

Weekend recap: True Blood and No Doubt

Happy Sunday! First, I cannot believe BlogHer is two weeks away, um where did summer go? I'm so excited about it and spending time with some of my awesome bloggy friends.

Well let's get started with the weekend recap!

Red Wine and Vampires

Because I don't have HBO (stupid cable companies), I don't get to watch and enjoy the "cool" shows, like True Blood, so Friday I met up with Sarah and Liz to indulge in this guilty pleasure with pizza and red wine (or beer for me). To be fair, I was pretty beat after a long day at work, so my mood may have been off but the show was...meh okay. Sookie kind of got on my nerves.

I may be tarred and feathered for these comments, but from what I've seen of the show, I give it a C. Maybe it has to just grow on me more.

NO DOUBT!!!!

I don't talk a lot about music here because well, I'm not very "cool" when it comes to music. I like my iPod classic rock mixes and mostly mainstream hits. I don't know a lot of indie/alt rock bands and I would be awful to have on your musical trivia team. Honest.

But like everyone else, I have 2-3 bands that I go ape-sh*t crazy for, and one of them is No Doubt.

No, not Gwen Stefani via Hollaback Girl, I'm talking about No Doubt, her group before she came a solo star.

I have fond high school memories of Tragic Kingdom, dancing along to "Just a Girl" and screaming (privately) "F*CK YES I AM" along with those lyrics. Yes, there is a little punk/ska girl buried behind my preppy/clean cut exterior. I still daydream about dying my hair pink or wearing a crapload of heavy make up for no reason than to show I'm pissed off and rebelling against "the man."

So when I heard No Doubt was going on tour this summer, for the first time in almost seven years, I nearly lost my mind with excitement. But my indecisive nature kept me from doing anything because the venue was in the suburbs...and I have no car. FAIL. But after some very good blog karma, I got a ride thanks to Rachel and her friends and a ticket off of Craigslist for a very good price. I even got to see Molly there too! Hey, hey Chicago bloggers represent.

As you can see, everyone was excited to be there (I'll be wearing that next time)

And with the help of a 22 oz. beer (which I could legally buy, as opposed to last time I saw No Doubt), I was a screaming, dancing, hip-shaking, arms waiving, jumping up and down fool. For real. You would have been SHOCKED by my actions, given that I'm a pretty reserved, laid back person. My hips were shakin' like Shakira on a good day.

I love you Gwen!!

Oh and the girl I bought the ticket from, yeah we got upgraded VIP seats from a drawing we entered at the venue on a whim. I completely had a holy-shit-I-think-I-might-pass-out moment. And I got to see Gwen really close, and scream my love for her. GREAT NIGHT.

Fall into the Gap

Oh and my final piece of good news for this weekend, I found out I was selected to be a Gap brand enthusiast from Brand About Town. My super awesome "Born to Blog" shirt that the other ladies have been posting pictures of isn't here yet :( but my inner event planner is out in full force getting logistics set up for the party. I'll keep everyone posted on the details!

How was everyone else's weekend? Anything fun or exciting happen? Or what performer/band would you LOVE to go see if you had the chance?

I am SO excited that 500 Days of Summer comes out next weekend. I have already texted TC to discuss getting tickets.

Note: Thank you everyone for your sweet comments about my second date with JohnBoy. Really you guys are so sweet and I'll definitely keep you posted about date #3!! We've been texting while he is on vacation so we're staying in touch :)

Weekend recap: Taste of Chicago, sunburn and bloggers

Hello hello and happy Sunday! Actually, today is more of my Saturday because I'm off tomorrow, but still, I can't believe it's the end of June! Seriously.

And I am totally 100 percent exhausted. It's been one of those great weekends when you're totally busy and don't mind because you're with great company but then BOOM it hits you all at once and you have no energy to physically do one more thing.

But before I give in to that exhaustion, let's take a quick trip around my weekend.

Okay first, there was the 20sb meet up and it was a lot of fun. We had a great mixer Friday at Rebel Bar in Wrigleyville and it was really nice to see some of my favorite bloggers again (along with awesome Chicago ones) in person. Then Saturday was the wine tasting with Farmstead Wines, which supports small farmers worldwide and uses a natural approach to wine making. All the wines we sampled were delicious, especially this puppy:

Oh it was good. Clean, crisp and refreshing. That would definitely get me in trouble because it's perfect for any meal, including breakfast.

But, actually, before the awesome bloggy goodness, I sacrificed my body to the ultimate in Chicago summer festivals: The Taste of Chicago.

Yes, the Taste of Chicago is an annual 10-day festival of mostly deep-fried food from various Chicago restaurants, many of which are served on a stick, on the bone or in a small paper bowl with a crappy plastic fork. And everything can be served on a stick, from popcorn to cheesecake to fruit. And why not, it keeps your hands from getting ridiculously dirty and allows you to still hold a beer.

Whenever you go to the Taste, you can count on one of these things happening:

• It will be ridiculously hot/humid outside. On cue, every year, the temp rises to 90 and sometimes adds humidity as another kick in the nuts

• You eat only hot food in the hot sun on the hot pavement

• You sweat through your clothes (sexy, I know)

• Sunburn will appear on one or several parts of your body

• Your personal self-esteem will be boosted

• You find out how little clothing people can wear with or without crossing the decency line

And for me this year, all these goals were achieved, exhibited in part by my new sunburned sleeve, check this b*tch out:

Yes, I should have known better, no I didn't wear SPF and yes, it's sore but it looks a lot better in this picture than it did Friday.

I sacrificed my arm for my rib sandwich, rainbow ice cream and perogi. That's how much I love you Chicago, you dirty wh*re. You better put out next time.

Oh and just as I was about to leave, some guy got BBQ sauce all over the crotch/leg of my shorts. And then laughed at me. Yes, I wanted to cut him and no, I didn't laugh back.

At the 20sb mixer, my new sunburn was a good topic of conversation because people kept touching my arm and said, "holy cow it's hot." Yes, sunburn is hot. And yes, it did hurt that night. Le sigh.

But even though I complain about the Taste and the heat and the sunburn, it's a Chicago tradition, much like Summerfest was for me growing up. It's the great summer festivals that make me love this city and get my hands dirty.

How was everyone else's weekend? Do you have any local festivals, similar to the Taste that you really enjoy going to every year?

Oh and yes I went on two dates this weekend. More to come on that.

Weekend recap: Dinner leftovers and minding the Gap

So remember all those tweets and posts I did where I complain about Chicago's cool weather and not being able to a) feel warm or b) wear my new, cute summer clothes? Karma is comin' back around because it is hot, humid and, well HOT here. I mean, I love the feeling of baking in the hot sun and my skin frying from it, just as much as the next girl, but whoa, some transition please!

But outside of the hot, humid, hair-hating weather, here's the highlights of my weekend:

Dinner

Friday my parents came in town for a weekend in the city and we went to Art Smith's restaurant, Table Fifty-Two. We had a late reservation and it totally didn't disappoint. In fact, I came home with half our meal in leftovers because it was so filling and delicious.

If you go, I highly recommend the crab cakes, three-cheese mac, jambalaya and you MUST order a piece of the hummingbird cake. No, that's not code word for deliciousness (although it should be). It's actually a banana/pineapple cake with cream cheese frosting. And it's amazing.

The service was impeccable and it was a more adult crowd so not overly loud. And with the famous biscuits and deviled eggs to start, my parents were MORE than impressed (me too!)

I'm also proud to say the jambalaya and three-cheese mac reheat well. Tonight I continue working on the Hummingbird cake because the piece cut for us was massive. I love leftovers!

Minding the Gap

I keep my clothing simple. I like affordable, stylish yet classic pieces in my wardrobe, so if you ever go through my closet, you will see A LOT of Old Navy, Banana Republic and especially Gap clothing in it. You can also check my Banana Republic card statement history to see first-hand how much I love the Gap. It's the kind of love that hurts sometimes.

Anyhow, I was beyond excited when Justine from Brand About Town e-mailed me asking if I could meet up and chat with her about becoming a Gap brand enthusiast. Um, YES, I'm interested. Could there BE another job that's better for me (outside of my day job?) Answer: no.

Justine braved the harsh Chicago storms on Friday to meet with me at Lavazza and chat more about the Gap brand enthusiast role. And between us, I fear I sounded slightly insane because I was so excited. Nothing's set in stone just yet, but the opportunity to host a party with my closet blogger friends = awesome. I'm ready to go!

And after our chat and quick run through the rain, she showed me some of Gap's new styles at the store and then...let me pick out some stuff to take home. *crickets chirping* Best day ever. I had to try not to squeal out loud or jump up and down clapping like Kelly Kapoor. I did that later ;)

Here's the new stuff I got too, I cannot wait to wear it to work.

And no, I won't be "cinching" or "belting" the waist like the SNL Gap girls (for now.)

How was everyone else's weekend?

Weekend recap: day drinking rocks!

I can admit that I'm not great with alcohol. So day drinking, like I did Saturday, is not a good idea for me.

I love that sweet liquor nectar of the gods, but I am not the best when I consume it in mass quantities. After I've had a few drinks, I end up hugging everyone (more than when I'm sober), giving kisses on the cheek and telling anyone and everyone that I love them.

Also, everyone gets a new nickname, "honey." For example, "honey you look hot in that top" or "honey could you get me another beer? Mama J needs her juice."

It's embarrassing. Oh, I also tend to talk/laugh loudly and say very inappropriate things. Oops.

But, as I mentioned, Saturday I day drank with some of my good friends at a party, appropriately titled, "In the Garden of Good and Evil."

And what was one of the evils afflicted on me? Raspberry vodka punch, that was more vodka than raspberry but gave you a solid punch in the face.

After I had glass number four of said punch, there was lots of laughing and giggling from me at sexual innuendo comments. If I had a nickel for every time I said "that's what she said," I could pay off my student loan. How old am I again?

Anyhow, because family and co-workers read this blog, I cannot divulge everything that went on but let's just say this. I made a new friend that's pink and shakes.

And the result of my weekend day drinking adventure, plus dinner at Hot Chocolate on Friday night, I desperately needed to go work out. It burns so good/bad. Nothing says "hot" like sweating vodka.

Finally in closing, I had to post this picture of a burger I enjoyed last week on my day off. Sarah and I met up at Kuma's Corner, which has been voted "Chicago's best burger" several times. Good lord I could have used one of these burgers yesterday. Cheddar, bacon and fried egg, oh boy!

So those were my weekend adventures, how was everyone else's weekend?

And feel free to share if you are also do not handle liquor well. I'm sure I can't be the ONLY one :)

Weekend recap: food, shopping and manual labor

Oh Memorial Day, the "unofficial" kick off for summer. And to celebrate this long weekend, I was back in Wisconsin, where it was a balmy 50 degrees by the lake and I was left with one coat, one pair of closed-toed shoes and a plethora of short sleeved tops. FAIL. It was like my packing fail for last year's BlogHer in San Francisco.

Despite the not-very-warm weather, I dialed the "relaxation" up to 11, stopped wearing make up and did a whole lotta nothing but bonding with my parents.

In fact, we bonded over four things: food, manual labor, shopping and television.

So let's recap the bonding that occurred this magical weekend.

Television/Movies

Due to my power outage last week, I missed Fox's Glee pilot, but thanks to iTunes, I downloaded it for free and enjoyed it this weekend. And OMG I'm obsessed with this show. I cannot WAIT for it to start up in fall.

First, Jane Lynch is one of the funniest people on TV right now. Woman steals every scene she's in. And along with my serious crush on Finn, here is my favorite part of the show:

I love Journey and I love the glee club version of Journey even more. It makes me want to rock out. If you haven't see this show yet, go download it right now from iTunes and enjoy. 

I also started watching The Fashion Show on Bravo. It's my short-term Project Runway-knock off fix. Kelly Rowland is tragic, Isaac Mizrahi works but I'm really shocked by the lack of talent from most of the contestants. Half of them can't sew? WTF? But I like that they focus on sell-ability, which PR doesn't do. 

Oh we also rented Taken with Liam Neeson. Damn that movie was intense. It make me want to kick someone's a** much like Liam did. Watch the unrated version, it's heavy but good. 

Shopping

My stepmom is the DEVIL to shop with because she is the biggest enabler I know. I learn from her! 

So we went to the outlet malls on Saturday and I got a little too close to sales of at least 40 percent off and a JCrew outlet store. It wasn't pretty. But here is a picture of my favorite new item, a gold scarf, which looks awesome with my new blue shirt and of course, the Coach sunglasses.

Manual labor

Nothing says "I love you," like manual labor. And that's what I got roped into doing this weekend. After we shopped and watched TV, it was time to work! The hardest job was bringing inside this new cabinet from the car. The thing is massive and weighs as much as I do. Fortunately I don't have to bring it upstairs. That will SUCK.

Food

In our house, Memorial Day = lots of cooking out. And because I don't have a grill in Chicago, I was ready for some grilled goodness.

Join me on my Memorial Day culinary journey.....

Friday: Swiss and mushroom cheeseburger (mushroom and cheese is stuffed inside the patty) with a pretzel bun, ketchup and mustard. 

Kettle corn from the outlet mall shops. I know, sounds crazy, but it was really good. Sea salt and sugar on kettle popped popcorn. Healthier than movie theater popcorn and just as good

Sunday: Sirloin steak on the grill with cooked mushroom and au jus sauce plus Yukon Gold potatoes with light butter, salt and sour cream. Truly amazing. Num.

Dessert: Brownie mix with Ghirardelli dark chocolate chips and nuts. I must stay away from this pan.

And after all that eating and activity, I basically laid around like a beached whale on a chaise lounge, couch, bed, chair, really any surface that allowed me to spread out. Heaven.

How was everyone else's Memorial Day weekend? Do anything or fun or grill out? Or did you go see any good movies?

Randomness: fashion, movies, pop culture and food

I cannot believe it's Memorial Day. Seriously. Time is literally flying by. Eeeek!

I'm back in Wisconsin right now, indulging on a gluttonous mushroom Swiss cheeseburger on pretzel roll, washed down with beer. It's like heaven, but not.

So in honor of a much needed long weekend, I'm keeping it kind of light tonight with lots of bullets, links and pictures!

• I found a blog dedicated to Michelle Obama's fashion and I'm completely obsessed with it. I check it daily and follow it on Twitter too. I am totally in love with her fashion sense, well most of them (the below is not an example of that exception)

• Now that my office has moved to a "tastefully casual" dress code, I'm in need of new summer shoes. I went to Nordstrom Rack last weekend and bought these shoes, what do you think? Bedazzled gladiator sandals, somewhat
  
  
• I watched the 60 Minutes interview with Vogue editor Anna Wintour last weekend. She's rumored to have a $200,000 yearly clothing allowance. What would I do with that? Chanel for everyone! After some damage at JCrew

• Last week I also went to a sneak preview tour of the new Whole Foods in Lincoln Park. And it is MASSIVE. My mind was totally spinning while I walked around on my tour. It's such a great representation of Chicago's various neighborhoods. I cannot wait to go visit and eat my way around. Oh and it has a cheese/wine bar inside! Anyone in Chicago interested in joining me for a wine/cheese flight?

• The New Moon poster for Twilight saga is out. Personally, I liked New Moon and Eclipse a lot so I'm all for more Jacob, especially without that dead animal of a wig on his head. Oh and Rob said in Cannes that they will be making a movie out of Breaking Dawn. I cannot wait to see how they do that. Yeah if you've read it, you know what I mean
  
  
• I bought a necklace from the Gap (it just started carrying jewelry) and the tag made it clear it's not for kids. So I guess that means I shouldn't try to eat it and I should probably keep it away from me while intoxicated too

• I fully plan on grilling out with my dad this weekend. Fish, beef, chicken, you name it and we'll grill it. Everything tastes better on the grill!

• When I went shopping for my bedazzled gladiator sandals I caught this fashion fail at Nordstrom Rack. It's Rock & Republic, with an "e" at the front. Ouch.

Finally, I'm thinking of "sexing up" my little blog and moving from Blogger to Wordpress, but I'm a little scared. But that may mean my reader's need to update their feeds. It's not settled just yet, but if the feeds were to change, would you guys follow me? Bueller? Lie to me?

Well, I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend! Anyone have big plans or is anyone traveling? Safe travels to everyone!!

Oh and if any readers happen to live in the Southeastern Wisconsin area and will be around this weekend, let me know because I would LOVE to hang out with someone other than my parents for a little bit. Dad doesn't keep up with pop culture or fashion like me :)

My Midwest accent and the pop/soda debate

Hello. My name is Jess, I'm from Wisconsin and I allegedly "talk funny."

Why? Because I have a Midwest accent. Or so I'm told.

According to my friends who tease me about this,  I say weird things like "soda" versus "pop," "bubbler" versus "water fountain" and "Tyme machine" instead of "ATM." Personally, I don't think those words are out of the ordinary.

Or maybe my accent is just more subtle than others. I do know that my friends love to point out my exaggerated pronunciation of the letter "a" thus making the word "bag" come out as a multi-syllable word.  I'm now self-conscious about it.

But the most common terminology people correct me on is the whole "pop" versus "soda" debate, because that can be a dead ringer about what part of the country you're from.

When I lived in Minnesota, it was "pop" and people immediately pegged me as a Wisconsin-er because I said "soda." Sadly, after two years in Minnie, I did start saying "pop," but I broke that habit quickly.

A few weeks ago, co-workers and I even started debating and teasing each other about our preferred terminology for this heavenly, carbonated beverage.

I even saw a map on Google to help explain what different parts of the country call it.

So what do you say, pop or soda? And do you get teased for an "accent" as well?

Reader note: Thank you everyone for your hilarious comments on the key learnings. I'm glad everyone agrees that the phrase "fanny packs" are a dirty word (even if it's $445 by Prada) and that there are other X-Men/Wolverine fans. Who doesn't love a hot man with his shirt off...or more.

Key learnings, fanny packs and hot men doing battle

Happy Sunday everyone! I am super excited because we had two consecutive days of no rain in Chicago. It makes me forget about running to the cab in a downpour on Friday.

And this is my last full week of work before I begin taking the insane amount of vacation time I've hoarded. Yes, that was not a good idea, but hey, let's hit the key learnings!

Key Learnings:

• "You can dress it up and slap a designer label on it, but it's still a fanny pack," you're right Cheryl, fanny packs are just wrong. Too bad we see so many of them downtown in summer

• Do not watch TV shows about home break ins at night when you are...home alone

• When random guys (including Frenchmen) hit on my friends, I get free things like drinks and food by association. Woo!

• Raspberry vodka is much better than pineapple vodka, especially on an empty stomach

• Putting a fried egg on just about any piece of food makes it better

• Crack is whack. Remember that when you bend over while wearing low-rise jeans

• Not collapsing a stroller on the bus is more obnoxious than tourists downtown

• I hate paying taxes and the smell of cigarette smoke, more than anything

• It's still satisfying to hear your parent's say "you were right"

• There is someone else who is actually deader inside than me

Hot men doing battle

I must be going into heat because right now, watching action movies on the weekend gets me all flustered. I just imagine they're fighting over me. Boys, there's plenty of me to go around, stop! Chris Pine, Hugh Jackman, let's all get along.

As a follow up to the Star Trek hotness from last weekend, my newly retired bloggy friend Cheryl and I went to see Wolverine today and my man Hugh Jackman didn't disappoint. 

There was even a sequence of him running nude. HELLO! I think my heart stopped for a minute. I had several minutes of quick flashes of his butt and lower torso. I almost blacked out from joy from the image too. Fortunately, I was fine, but him resuscitating me would have been helpful.

But since hot men don't travel alone, he had his merry cast of hot to semi-hot male back-ups, including Ryan Reynolds (whose "gun show" had major fire power, Scarlett you're so lucky) and Taylor Kistch from Friday Night Lights. Riggins! He's not as boozed up and man-whorey dirty in this movie, but still, I'd roll around in the dirt with him. Oh and of course, Liev Schreiber, who is still nice to look at, minus the mutton chops. Chops are meant to be eaten, not grow like a rash on your face.

I can't lie, there were some hammy parts and painfully obvious CGI, but it was good, mindless fun. And as the weather continues to get nice, I'll quote my friend Teresa who said, "I don't like to see movies that make me think." Right now, I concur.

Did everyone else have a great weekend?

Reader note: For everyone asking about Project Runway on Lifetime, it doesn't start until August 20 :( I thought it was supposed to start in June! Well I guess Top Chef Masters will have to do in the meantime.

The Wrath of Butter

OMG I think I still have Star Trek on the brain because I totally took this from the Wrath of Khan. Sad. I'm one step away from my own Starfleet uniform. 

Anyhow, I'm writing today because the next epidemic that is bound to sweep our country is: the wrath of butter.

Yes, it's no longer a cooking ingredient or topping on popcorn, it is grabbing hold of innocent people that love it and sticking to their stomach and thighs like tar, causing them to unknowingly gain weight.

Its latest victim: former Cheers star Kirstie Alley.

The cover my latest People magazine said it all. The former Jenny Craig spokesperson lost an amazing 75 pounds with the program, and then once she left, she has since gained 83 pounds in the last two years.

And what does she credit as the culprit? Butter (among other food demons, such as Chinese food and sugar). But butter gets the brunt of the blame. Butter on popcorn, tablespoons of it on pasta and on toast. Just a fountain of butter landing on any and all of her food.

So while butter is public enemy number one, vegetarianism is the beta. Poor Kirstie didn't get the proper vegetarianism welcome packet because instead of vegetables, it was carbs and all other foods, just sans meat that made up her diet.

Now, I'm not a vegetarian, so I can't really speak to that, but in reading the interview with Kirstie, I personally felt like it was all excuses and no accountability.

Eating healthy and maintaining a diet is very difficult. It's a daily battle and trust me, I know some are better than others. But when I overeat or have too much sweets, etc., I don't blame them for making me eat them and thus gain the weight. I keep the accountability all on me.

I mean, it's not like that food jumped into my mouth on its own. At least not in this galaxy ;)

And she claims that she just can't work out without a trainer. Actually, it's entirely possible. I do it four times a week and so do many of my friends. 

But the thing that worries me the most? She wants to go from 223 pounds to 128 pounds. Now, that is doable but is that really healthy at her age? She said she has to go that low because she won't be happy at 140. Honey if I could get to 140 I would kiss the ground...which is dirty!

So after reading her article several times, I have these two pieces of advice: take accountability for the weight gain and be happy with a weight that may be more than 128. A lot of us who can't be that skinny already are.

Question for tonight! What foods do you have a hard time saying no to? Or am I wrong in these words to our dear, poor celebrity friend?

Key learnings, Star Trek and pop culture commentary

Happy Sunday and Happy Mother's Day! Well, I've watched the Mother Lover video from last night's SNL far too many times and while it's inappropriate, I can't help but laugh. Let's just hope I don't sing it out loud at work tomorrow.

So let's hit the key learnings before I am moved to sing out loud again.

Key Learnings:

• Yes, you can be buzzed after only two beers (it's called "that time of the month" + low tolerance. Works every time)

• Going out on Friday night gets to be more difficult at the end of a long week

• Try to be subtle when asking if your friend is dating a guy you think is cute

• Boobs are fun to look at, but not if you're a woman out at the bar. I didn't order a side of boob with my beer

• It's always "beer-thirty" time somewhere

• Kate Gosselin is a cold-hearted b*tch, but damn those kids are cute

• I do not believe for a second that Kirstie Alley gained all that weight from butter

• It's easy to mishear the word "hair straightener" for "strainer." That or I'm going deaf

• Going shopping with friends is a must so you can get a verdict on clothing choices (it is the most honest opinion)

• No matter how many times I do it, eyebrow waxing always hurts. And it never helps when your "girl" tells you it's going to hurt more because you waited too long between visits

• Renter's insurance is a MUST HAVE. Two friends recently shared stories of either being robbed or knowing someone who was robbed, both without renter's insurance. If you don't have it, don't wait!!

Star Trek: The New Generation in Hotness

Oh yes, this weekend my buddy TC and I boldly went where few women have gone before...voluntarily to the new Star Trek movie. And it was ab fab! I even teared up once (I'm a sap).

Yes, we packed into a crowded afternoon showing of the movie and began to watch the Trekkies stream in, while each eyeing which male moviegoer that could become future Mr. Jess and Mr. TC.

One guy's shirt identified him as a "future astronaut" (promising!) while another man had a shirt that said "beam me up Scottie" (ambiguously cosmopolitan!). 

So while I'm a huge JJ Abrahms fan (loved Felicity and Alias, and of course, LOST), I won't lie, I mostly went for the eye candy.

Trust me, the USS "Hottie" Enterprise can beam me up any day. I'm ready now! Let me just grab my purse.

I just didn't like that Chris Pine was beat up so much. Hit him below the neck! That's valuable merchandise up there! Oh let's be honest, watching him get ruffed up was hot. And Zachary Quinto had a certain...hidden preppy charm. Talk Vulcan to me baby. I'm listening.

I have nothing to contribute to Star Trek history, storylines or Romulan genealogy, but let me just say this, I like watching attractive men do battle on the screen, so bring it on! Oh and Winona Ryder, I missed you!

How was everyone else's weekend? Did you do anything fun for Mother's Day? Or did you see any good movies this weekend to recommend?

Key learnings, reality show filming and trekking for food

Happy Sunday! It was a great weather weekend in Chicago, mostly because the sun was out and not drop of rain. I even pulled out all the new spring clothes so I can start wearing them ASAP.

So while I'm mentally delaying the start of another week, let's hit the key learnings.

Key Learnings:

• I hate the sound of car horns honking. HATE it

• The two of the most distinctive sounds are: glass shattering and someone's car being hit (people sure don't like that)

• Netflix needs to start sending me happier movies. My latest selections: The Reader, The Wrestler, Rachel Getting Married and Doubt. Geez

• Mussels and fried eggs are my new favorite foods, along with gnocchi

• A beer headache is not a good way to start a Friday, especially when you have work to do

• Adjusting yourself in public is never appropriate or appreciated by women

• I am obsessed with taking pictures of flowers

• E! producers are serious when they say "no flash photography"

• Muffin tops are out in full force and show no signs of stopping

• Even on a summer-like day, someone will always be outside wearing a down jacket

• I am SO tired of hearing about Swine Flu

• I really like having a Blackberry, which means, I can never go back to life without one

Reality Show Taping

Today I went to the gym and was greeted with a large "NOTICE" sign on the front door. 

Swine flu? No, turns out E! was there filming Bill and Giuliana Rancic's new reality show. And the notice was to tell us that by entering the premise, we consented to possibly being filmed. So despite my mismatched outfit, glasses and unwashed hair, I walked in and did my workout, sneaking away to watch some of the filming.

I even took a few photos of the filming (Mission Impossible-style) before I was caught and asked to stop by a swarm of not-so-happy producers. Dude, I'm a blogger, you can't stop me!!

Oh yeah and Saturday night I went to The Publican, rated by Chicago Magazine and TimeOut Chicago as the best new restaurant. And it was a decadence of pork and meat. Sarah and I trekked down to the West Loop to meet Ray for a lovely night out. And somewhere between the chef's selection of three hams, farm roasted chicken, frites with fried egg, and lemon and chocolate gelato, I died and went to heaven. My parents even gave me the third-degree about my dining experience, which means a return trip with them could be in my future. Plus, when you see a restaurant sign with pigs on it, you know it'll be good!

How was everyone else's weekend? Do anything fun? I hope the weather was as nice by you as it was here! We have so earned it!

Reader note: I really enjoyed everyone's comments on the "petite" post from Thursday. I'm glad to hear I'm not the only petite person out there that feels bittersweet about my height. Everyone was great to share their thoughts on this and I very much enjoyed them :)

Key learnings, food and high self-esteem

Happy Sunday! Well it has stopped raining in Chicago for now, after serious thunderstorms and flooding yesterday, but it looks like it might be starting up again. Yay (said sarcastically).

So while I occupy my time with a shoe fashion show, let's hit the key learnings. Oh and someone once asked for pictures of that single-girl ritual. If you're interested, let me know and I'll put some up :)

Key Learnings:

• On nice spring days, forcing yourself to sit outside for lunch is the best decision you'll make

• Female adult toys are not meant to by DIY. I don't want to provide my own "motion in the ocean" or worry about it getting "stuck up there"

• It's okay to reduce the waiter's tip if your brunch meal was, well, forgotten about

• Cupcakes are the perfect dessert for any meal, brunch, breakfast, lunch, dinner, anything

• Finding a great deal on a high-ticket item is a great feeling (my friend Liz found a $148 coat a JCrew for $29.99 on sale, score!)

• Shredded and holey leggings are not a good idea. Actually, any clothing with these embellishments isn't a good idea

• Ice cream and/or beer on a hot day tastes so good!

• Flip flops are not made to withstand walking in a rainstorm

• Watching a thunderstorm can be surprisingly soothing

• Speidi's wedding is the most unholy union ever. And Spencer is still a d-bag

• I will not just wake up one day with six-pack abs. No matter how much I wish I would

Friday was the first real day of summer-like weather in Chicago and after a long winter and cool spring, it was SO nice. I even made sure to get away from my desk and go outside to get some sunshine. The first mild sunburn of the season could happen any day now.

Oh and I visited my local Berry Chill on Friday to get some relief from the heat and sample what everyone in my office has been talking about. Overall, it wasn't bad, and I think I broke even by having fruit and M&Ms together on my fro yo. Yeah, that's how it works.

Chicago food review

I've mentioned here before that I'm not exactly a "foodie," but lately, I'm obsessed with going out and trying new places. I even keep a list of restaurants in Chicago that I want to go to so I don't forget.

Saturday I met up with April at Southport Grocery and had the most amazing omelet with: egg, gruyere cheese, leek and mushrooms. It was amazing and very filling. Plus, its red potato mash (aka hash browns) were great too. And with one of its famous cupcakes, it was a great brunch. Definitely want to go back again.

Then after walking and moving all that food around, I met up with the lovely, well Jamie Lovely for dinner at Feast in Bucktown. Great ambiance and thanks to Open Table, we didn't have to wait for a table. And my herbed goat cheese-stuffed chicken breast with gnocchi, spinach and cherry tomatoes was insanely good. Somehow, I even found room for the dessert special, raspberry creme brulee. Yes, I don't need to eat again for two days.

But this is much better than my usual dinners of cereal or waffles, so I'm making progress!

Pull Your Shirt Down

Finally, I need to put "on notice" something new today. I know, two recent "on notice" entries, it's scary. I'm putting "on notice" today people who wear ill-fitting shirts. This weekend, I saw WAY too many muffin tops, and I wasn't even in a bakery! 

I know it's warm, I know it feels good to wear lighter-weight clothing and I know you want to show that you're hot sh*t, but seriously PULL YOUR SHIRT DOWN. I don't want to see your massive tramp stamp, hairy or pimply skin around your midsection. 

Okay, I'm not at my best "summer weight" right now either, but sweet lord, if that shirt doesn't fit, go to Old Navy and buy a new one for $5 because I can guarantee you that I don't want to see another spare tire, I have my own. Thanks.

How was every one else's weekend? Was the weather nice by you? Do anything fun?

Key learnings, Chicago spring and salon sanctuary

Happy Sunday! I'm looking outside my apartment right now to...rain, which is a much different scene from Friday and Saturday when it was gorgeous and sunny in Chicago. But according to the Trib Web site, next weekend will be great too, so while I'm daydreaming of that, let's check out some key learnings.

Key Learnings:

• If wearing a Snuggie for a bar crawl, a belt and pins in the back make it much more figure flattering

• I am not afraid to verbally declare my love for something. For example: at my friend's birthday party, I yelled out loud, "I f*cking love potato salad!" (I do)

• Bad tasting icing can kill the taste of any cupcake

• Once warm weather hits, the desire to eat ice cream all the time returns

• 70 degrees in April is not the same as 70 degrees in June, don't get too overzealous with the spring clothing

• Searching for condos is time consuming

• Developing an online dating profile is surprising challenging, especially if done late at night

• If your salon offers a complimentary glass of wine, it is rude not to accept it, even if your appointment is at 11 a.m.

• I really hate cleaning the bathroom. Almost as much as I hate cleaning the kitchen

• The Kia commercial with hamsters on a wheel really cracks me up. I can SO relate to those hamsters

Salon sanctuary

This weekend I went to the salon and I so needed it. My hair grows like a tree so I'm in for color/cut every other month and I delayed this visit by two weeks so my hair was dying to be cut off. During the height of poverty, I cut my hair every six months, but I can't do that anymore.

I love the salon I go to in Chicago. I've been faithful to my stylist for three years, and that is a huge accomplishment for me. I think the salon is a place of total relaxation. It helps you unwind from everything and you feel so much better when you leave.

And along with a complimentary glass of wine, my favorite part about the salon is the scalp massage. A good scalp massage is almost as good as a bucket of cash. Well, almost. I've fallen asleep multiple times in the chair while my scalp is being massaged and I feel much more comfortable paying for my service afterward. Maybe that's part of the master salon plan ;)

Cupcake goodness

After the salon, I treated myself to a cupcake at Phoebe's grand opening. Actually, the first 3,000 people got a free cupcake (even better!) from its assorted flavors. The cupcake I received was a salted caramel flavor and it wasn't too bad. I'm a cupcake traditionalist though, I love chocolate and red velvet and don't get too crazy with cupcake flavors. But when it opens next week, I'll be there to sample both.

Here's a picture of my cupcake (not a great photo) and the cute card I received with it.

Spring blooms

So I take way too many photos of flowers, but here's a photo I took this weekend to help everyone think spring. When the sun is out, all of my photos turn out 100 percent better.

How was everyone else's weekend? Do anything fun or see any movies? Or was the weather nice by you too?

When going out to eat isn't fun

No, I'm not talking about food poisoning. I'm talking more about the service.

For me, going out to eat is a treat. Especially when I want to celebrate good news, a birthday or just to spend a nice evening out with friends, unwinding and catching up.

Which is why it f*cking pisses me off when that dinner is ruined by poor service, bad food, etc.

Yes, I may take this a little personally, but money was really tight when I was growing up so going out to eat was more than just a meal, it was an "experience." It was something you looked forward to and enjoyed because it didn't happen all the time.

So Friday night, after a long week at work, I got back to Wisconsin for the weekend and promptly told dad we were going out to dinner. I had not seen him in a few weeks and was looking forward to some quality time together.

Until we go to a Bar Louie location at home and...well...they ruined my meal.

First, they mess up my initial order, no biggie, I point out the mistake and change my order. Thirty minutes later it arrives, after dad has finished his meal and I've eaten most of his fries out of starvation.

Then my new meal arrives, one of my current, favorite dishes, baked mac and cheese, and it's not even baked. It's just warm. At this point, I'm starving so I just eat part of it while my dad sits and stares at me.

Oh and apparently there is a water shortage at the restaurant because I only got one glass of water with no refills (despite asking) so I had to share again with dad.

Sure, we complained and got 50 percent off the bill, but I was so mad at myself for choosing that place and that the meal was not what I was hoping for cuisine-wise and service-wise.

This is a perfect example of why I'm a bad tipper. I refuse to reward my waitress who was jiggling her boobs at the bartenders and host staff rather than be attentive. When I have good service, I'm a good tipper, great service, I'm a great tipper.

And the restaurant was barely full so crowd couldn't even be an excuse.

So now I'm still upset reflecting on this. Geez, I'm either sad or too much of a "feeler."

So f*ck you Bar Louie, you're being placed on the "on notice" board. Yes, you've prompted me to add something to that board again.

What was your worst dining experience or what irritates you the most when you go out to eat?

Reader note: Oh my gosh! I was so appreciative of everyone's posts about me jumping into the home ownership pool. Thank you so much for your great comments, I will definitely keep everyone posted on how this goes! And welcome again to new commenters too! You guys are the best :)

Key Learnings, Easter and candy coma

Happy Easter everyone! I don't know about you all but right now I am in a near Thanksgiving-like coma from all the food today. Seriously, I need to take out my contacts stat in case I just fall asleep. 

So before that happens, let's hit the key learnings.

Key Learnings:

• I may lose my mind if it doesn't get warm in the Midwest soon. I have such cute stuff to wear!

• Getting an Easter basket as an adult is still a nice treat

• Amy Adams is good in just about any movie she is in. Give her an Oscar, please!

• Your dad is a keeper when he holds your purse in public while you take pictures

• It's okay to play tourist in your hometown

• Cupcakes make an acceptable dinner

• If struggling with a clip on a hanger, don't force it to move because it will snap at any moment and cut your finger open (guilty!)

• It's okay to skip wearing a belt to Easter brunch so there is more room for the food indulgence

• Don't walk around your parent's house half-dressed unless you know they're not home or coming upstairs any time soon

• In order to bond with your parents, you do things you normally wouldn't do, like watch hours of the Master's golf tournament or Fox News

• At Easter brunch, don't guzzle down a Bloody Mary on an empty stomach or you will be intoxicated before the meal (again)

On the Easter theme, I woke up this morning (after being rudely woken up at 6 a.m. initially) and found that the Easter bunny visited me!! YAY! I saw basket grass in our house and hoped it was for me, and it was!

Here is a picture of my Easter basket, full of Burt's Bees and chocolate goodies. Now I have more Ghirardelli squares to smuggle into the movies and my favorite lip balm and Burt's products. Thank you bunny!

After the basket reveal, we went to my stepmom's sister's house for brunch, where I binged on homemade cinnamon rolls (amazing!) and found out were were celebrating a family member's birthday, complete with...a Twilight cake! And while indulging, a 12 year old and I talked about Twilight as if we were...kids. 

Finally, I went crazy taking pictures this weekend around home. I loaded all of them on my Flickr page if you want to check them out. I went a little nuts taking photos at an indoor farmer's market and around the city. Here are some of my favorites:

Cheese in Wisconsin-familiar shapes

Rose in full bloom (yes I did take this picture)

Art Museum

So how was everyone else's Easter weekend? Did anyone else get an Easter basket or eat way too much candy? What is your favorite Easter candy?

Also, has anyone seen the Peeps contest? The Washington Post does it every year but I found pictures of the finalists on the Tribune site too. Some of them are so clever!

Reader note: Thank you everyone for the great comments on the movie quote post on Thursday. I was laughing the entire day at quotes you all left. And hello to all the new commenters too! I cannot believe I forgot Clueless or Legally Blonde or even Seinfeld. All of those have great quotes too. It was so much fun to read your comments, it made my day!

Key learnings, thinking spring and movie marathons

I may have spoken too soon at the whole "thinking spring" thing because Chicago is supposed to get 1-3 inches of snow tonight. *Pause for my expletive tirade*

Moving on, while I pull out the snow boots for tomorrow, let's hit the key learnings.

Key Learnings:

• When in doubt, grilled cheese or mac and cheese is always a good lunch or dinner food option

• Before deviating from your grocery list, make sure you can handle carrying the extra indulgence (it can be a long walk if you can't)

• You can never eat just a few Swedish Fish, the bag will magically disappear

• Clive Owen is smoking hot

• Just because it's 50 degrees, doesn't mean you should wear flip flops or shorts. It's not that warm

• When a customer says she "needs a minute" to decide on products to buy, don't snort in disgust and dramatically walk away. It's rude b*tch

• Diets don't count on the weekends

• A beer on a Friday night tastes like sweet heaven (just like Chipotle)

• When your bus driver gets road rage, it's okay to hold on for dear life

• Not everyone wears make up on the weekends, don't stare at them for doing so

• Any meal with cheese on it is going to taste good. Same with bacon

• The weather report is a key indicator as to the "need" to shave your legs for the upcoming week

Movie Marathon: 

Lately, I've been watching a ton of movies. It's my go-to for stress relief, after the gym and eating my weight in ice cream or candy. 

Netflix hasn't been sending me the best selection lately so I've started going to the theater again and hitting up Redbox near my house.

In the last two weekends, I've watched the following movies:

• Twilight
• Australia
• Slumdog Millionaire
• Pineapple Express
• Marley & Me
• X-Files: I Want to Believe
• I Love You Man
• Duplicity

As you can see, I've been busy.

Marley & Me was my big must-see this weekend. I stalked Redbox twice on Friday and finally got it, with tissues ready and everything. I have to say, I'm not a huge pet person, but the tears did flow. Not convulsing sobs but steady tears. And it was nice to see Owen Wilson move away from the man-boy movies.

Oh and thanks to I Love You Man, my new phrase is "totes magoats." So funny. The only movie from this list I don't recommend seeing is X-Files. Bad movie. Disgrace to the TV show.

Speaking of TV, what's up with Gossip Girl going on hiatus until the end of the month? WTF? And the Hills is starting again, which means I can go back to watching Spencer be a d-bag and Stephanie be a doormat. Lucky me.

So I know this post was a little boring, but hey, I had a relaxing weekend so there isn't anything overly juicy to share!

What did everyone else do this weekend? See any good movies or watch some basketball? Or what movies are coming up that you want to see? Discuss!

Key learnings, snow and wedding recap

I woke up this morning to a winter wonderland. Seriously. Blizzard-like conditions in Chicago with several inches by 8 a.m. Here are some pictures: snow, more snow. I was rather perplexed by this (and irritated) so I hibernated (with candy) and caught up on more reading, so let's hit the key learnings.

Key Learnings:

• High heels look sexy but they are the devil

• No matter how full I am, there is always room for candy and/or cake

• I hate asking friends to bum cash when I accidentally leave it at home (which rarely happens)

• When buying a dress, fit is key, but make sure you leave some room to eat (sometimes, you need it)

• Groomsmen always look a little hotter than normal at a wedding, something about the suit

• Sometimes on a bad day, Chipotle can taste like sweet heaven

• Some of the best Friday nights include: comfy pants, magazines and cleaning out the DVR, all while relaxing on the couch

• RedBox may be my new best friend

• The movie Australia isn't great, but Hugh Jackman without a shirt is on fabulous

• Twilight is much better upon second viewing, coupled with low expectations for the film

• When dumpster diving, dress appropriately, if possible

• Cobblestone and high heels do not mix well 

Wedding!

I mentioned last week that I was nervous about going to a wedding sans date, but I have to say, I had a great time going as a single lady.

TKTC and my co-worker Laura were my "dates" to Rebecca's wedding at the Conservatory last night and everything was just beautiful. Despite the rain and cooler temps, everyone had a great time in a gorgeous setting of flowers and plants. Check out this picture of us sexy ladies!

So the JCrew dress was out because of the weather, but I still think my backup outfit works :)

The food was amazing (imagine seasoned chicken breast, chilled pea soup, bacon wafer and full candy bar) and we had a choice of six amazing cakes from Bon Bon to pick from, including margarita, mango and strawberry shortcake. For me, the mango and strawberry shortcake were the best and let's just say, I was STUFFED by the end of dinner service.

 

And although I forgot my plastic baggie for the candy bar, the bride and groom provided some for us (thank goodness!) and I had a nice treat to enjoy today, starting at 9:45 a.m. Thanks to Twitter support, it's apparently never too early to get started.

It was such a nice evening. The ladies and I gossiped, talked, laughed and had a great time. They were great company, and I was able to catch up with my knitting crew, who all looked lovely. The best touch of the night had to be the awesome placecard/drink savers we all received too. Rebecca is so sweet, keeping me from having a roofie put in my beverage :) Awesome idea.

Anyhow, Rebecca looked stunning and as always, hosted a wonderful party. Congrats to the bride and groom! 

So how was everyone else's weekend? See any movies or do anything fun?

Reader notes: Thanks everyone for playing the Desert Island game. Know there was a lot of information to include in that post so feel free to go back and add answers or answer just a few of them. I realized after a few comments that I asked for a lot :)

Common Threads gala & Top Chef superfan

You all know that I'm not the best in the kitchen, but I love a good meal and last night I was very fortunate to attend the Common Threads World Festival 2009 at the Museum of Contemporary Art, which had food and chefs from some of Chicago's best restaurants.

Common Threads was co-founded by chef Art Smith to educate children on the importance of nutrition and teach them to make proper food choices through cooking education. It's a really great cause.

I'm writing this recap and noshing on caramel popcorn from Graham Elliott (in a convenient Chinese take-out box,) thinking of how I can recap this great evening for everyone. So we'll do it in a bulleted form!

Here are some highlights:

• Seeing Gail Simmons, Top Chef judge and Food & Wine editor, within the first two minutes of arriving and saying (loudly,) "OMG it's Gail, I die!" FYI: she is gorgeous in person, skinny and petite while rocking sky-high heels

• Hunting down Stephanie Izard from Top Chef Season 4 and over enthusiastically saying how excited I am to meet her, like several times, oh and how I "hunted her down" to meet her. Probably thinks I'm c-r-a-z-y!

• Getting winked at (twice!) by Michelle Bernstein. So cute and petite (just like me)

• Saying hi to Mr. Graham Elliott Bowles himself and having him offer to shove leftover caramel popcorn in my purse. Really wish I brought a bigger bag

• Best meal: Pork and pasta by Michelle Bernstein. Why was it so good? Perfectly cooked meat that melts in your mouth. Why was it also good? Butter and cream. Num and nummier

• Best meal runners-up: Goat cheese from Les Nomades and Swedish pancake with goat cheese from Blackbird

• Most bittersweet dish: Pork and shrimp by Stephanie Izard. It was good, but a little underseasoned for my taste. Still love her though
  

• Best drink: Trust me, I behaved myself, but the champagne, Gran Marnier and pomegranate juice concoction was very lovely

• Other reality-star sighting: Ken from season two of Make Me A Supermodel (he was smiling with his eyes)

Also, while I am sometimes awkward in social situations, I was a TOTAL ham at the party. I had a list of people I wanted to meet and I hunted them all down to say hi. I went right up to Gail Simmons, Stephanie Izard and Radhika from Top Chef and geeked out about how excited I was to meet them. What can I say, I'm a huge Top Chef fan.

I know not everyone may know who these people are, but I had to share this because it was a great night and a great treat to go. Plus, I got to get semi-dressed up in a cute Banana Republic jersey LBD and shoes, which were torture devices near the end of the night. And, I got to sample great, fancy food I would never be able to make. Well, maybe if I could just move beyond making pasta at home....

So the question for everyone tonight is...what is your favorite restaurant/dish to order when you go out? One of my colleagues admitted tonight she's a huge Olive Garden fan, never would have guessed that!