Survey Says

Does it make me an old lady for loving this sweater from MoMA?

And all I got was this keychain...

Well, Meghan and I made the 2-hour trek to Chinook Winds Casino in Lincoln City, OR, today in search of fame and fortune. We lined up with a thousand other people in hopes of auditioning for America's Favorite Game Show - Wheel of Fortune. The website said not to show up early. So we didn't, and missed the first round of auditions but were right on time for the second. You get an application after waiting in line, then must continue to wait in line until the first group is done. While I was inside ordering fries and nachos I guess they started to move the line and Meghan, who was saving my place in line, called and we decided to ditch the food despite the $6 invested. We then waited in line some more. Once we were in out of the cold coast wind, we sat through an hour of cheesy stand-ins for Pat and Vanna while a stream of completely unprepared Coasties and residents of the 'Couv were selected at random to embarrass themselves on stage with an interview. They were given a hat or a fanny pack for their time. I think a more discriminate selection process might have been a good idea. And in that case Meghan so would have won, having been given the chance. All in all, despite not being called up to interview, it was a good trip. Meghan won $300 at the slots, and I came home with memories, saltwater taffy and this keychain. (Vanna talks.)

Major Physical Transformation

I cut bangs! I didn't know it, but on my "list" (which I need to name, because I'm not kicking the bucket) is physical transformation. Today, that came in the form of cutting bangs. Don't worry - I called my sister and asked for her permission. Which she granted, while reminding me that perhaps a lesser person would lay claim on the style. Anne at work may be disappointed (we'd hate to both go for the same change at the same time) but she's going for the straight bang with Asian hair and it will look nothing close to similar.

Bombs Away!!

I finally did it!!! Jacob, Mitchell and I FINALLY went skydiving. It was our third attempt. The first attempt was doused by rain - but we got the call ahead in the morning and didn't head out at all. The second attempt was thwarted by clouds and a hold due to weather for an indeterminable amount of time - so we left the place early with a voucher. Then Mitchell and I both had last Friday off anyway and the day was gorgeous. So, we headed on down to Skydive Oregon. We waited around for a bit, but then got suited up. Mitchell had to get an extra large helmet for his big noodle and we all opted to jump without a super-sweet jumpsuit - it would have been way too hot. There was very little personal space when it comes to skydiving tandem. Much discussion of my boobs and then, you wedge yourself in the plane like a train with your instructor in back and your photographer in front and everyone else surrounding you. We all got video and photos this first time - video to come later. Once they opened the huge door and we slid out, the view was awesome - you could see all the mountains and even the ocean (so Mitchell says). It felt like I was under an intense wave of water during the free fall - like water was driving up my nose. Once the chute opened (which also hurt) we spiraled around and could actually pay attention to the view. It was sweet and felt like forever and nothing at the same time. The landing was scary as we approached the ground at lightning speed, but you just land on your butt and it's not a problem at all. All in all, so glad I went and would recommend it to anyone. Check this one off the list!

Brussel Sprouts?

Have you ever seen brussel sprouts on the stalk? I stumbled across them at the Milwaukie Farmers Market on Sunday and thought they were so cool I just had to buy a stalk. I snapped them off with a knife and soaked them in cold salt water for awhile, then tossed them in EVOO, salt and pepper, then baked them at 400 for about a half an hour until the outside turned brown. If I did it again next time I would get two stalks to make sure there's plenty for everyone.
Yumm.

Coming Soon

I was so excited when we saw this preview while also trying to stay hip by watching the MTV VMAs last night. It's Couples Retreat - the movie Mitchell and I saw being filmed while on our honeymoon in Bora Bora. With Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman and Tahiti in the background, it could be worth checking out. In theaters 10.09.09

Love

I am in love with this Bombe Chest from Crate & Barrel.

I haven't figured out exactly where it will go house in our house - probably because there are SO many places it would go perfectly. The only bummer is the black, which doesn't fit with the mahogany planned for the bedroom, but with the brushed nickel handles, I think it excuses a lot of that. Plus, look at the inside!! Love, love.

Coates Kokes' New Website

The advertising agency I work for, Coates Kokes, has launched a new website. Check it out. I have been involved in an awful lot of that work over my years there. And, I very politely did not complain about the photo of me they selected, although I might have cause. Enjoy!

Kids Gift Idea

Love this gift idea from Snapfish.com for the little ones. Take their picture and insert it into one of several children's books.

It reminds me of a customized book I received for my birthday - must have been turning 5. My name, Barbara, was injected throughout the story. I thought it was so cool and was therefore distraught when we came home to the entire living room in disarray. This was thanks to a pissed off Schnauzer puppy named Brinkley, who was not pleased to be left home alone for the evening. My customize - therefore irreplaceable, priceless and sentimental - book was destroyed and I was bummed.

While my custom book story did not end happily, I would think this is proof positive that this gift is sure to be a home run for any small bookworm.