Angie's Drama

2006-02-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

1) ELWOOD will be playing at Johnny Vigs Saturday, February 18th beginning at 9pm. If you've never seen Elwood live-you're missing out. Jim and Rick are awesome. An aside, Johnny Vigs has terrific drink prices and specials. Definitely Team Walker Approved.

2) Anyone else notice that BadaBing on Main & Jefferson has already said "Bye-Bye?" Well, it lasted a few months at least. I'll just throw out this random piece of advice. If you decide to go to the trouble of opening a bar in Downtown Peoria-make sure your public knows when you're open. You may not be doing your customers a favor by closing on Mondays, opening at 11:00pm on Tuesdays, 9pm on Thursdays, 10pm on the weekends etc... I really know very little about the owners or how the establishment was run. I just think if you're going to put together a business plan and go through the process of obtaining a liquor license, you may want to put together hours of operation that aren't too confusing.

3) I hope everyone enjoyed the J. Michael Sullivan inspired article, "Butt Out!" in Wednesday's Journal Star as much as I did. I can't even begin to count the Sullyism's we picked out.

2006-02-10T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what's going on with my posts but it doesn't make me happy. I think I'm going to go with Blog Peoria and get a different template. At least, that's what Uncle Bill has suggested I do. Changes should be coming soon...

So, Rob's in beautiful Las Vegas. He and Donny's mother-in-law were on the same flight out of Peoria. Of course, the first night he was gone, Vito decided to pick a battle with the much more dominant Aiko dog. That was fun. I'm a little hoarse today because of "The Voice" I had to use.

The Explorer has been at the dealership for quite some time. Little Baby Hawaiin Punch has been ill. I picked it up this morning and low and behold, it was back at the dealership this afternoon. Vehicles probably shouldn't vibrate when stopped at a light or intersection...So, I've got the same loaner and hopefully I'll hear something next week.

What The ??

2006-02-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

Oh. For. God's. Sake.

World Peace, Hunger and the Aids Epidemic not available for comment. Too busy laughing their a** off.

http://cinescape.com/0/editorial.asp?aff_id=0&this_cat=Music+&+Audio&action=page&type_id=&cat_id=270466&obj_id=50563#

Never Gonna Happen

2006-01-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

I guess Rob isn't going to be giving us a rant. He's fairly busy with getting ready to leave for the Shooting Hunting Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT Show) in Las Vegas next week. Expect a mile long rant when he returns...

Sophie (Bear Dog) is currently working on resting her gastrointestines. Sunday, Rob and I came home to see that she had eaten an entire bag of chocolate Valentine's Day candy, wrappers included. This should be as no suprise since she once ate a pound of fudge with absolutely no reprocussions. So, the next 24 hours were spent on death watch. We couldn't even reprimand her because we were to scared. She milked it... Yesterday, she happened upon a large bag of trail mix. You know, the good kind, with M&M's, peanuts, raisins and sunflower seeds. I found the empty bag on the bed. Along with all the raisins. How does a dog pick out every single raisin? Regardless, between the normally gassy Vito and the now unbearable Sophie, we won't be having guests anytime soon. Rob decided the best bet was to put Sophie in the dog room with a comforter. Well, my little baby wasn't about to be miserably sick and out in the cold. I stayed downstairs with her all night and let her outside when she needed to go. She seems to be doing much better today.

Prelude to a Prelude

2006-01-26T14:45:00.000-07:00

Also known as the "Will you please give me your rant so I can post it" nudge or tackle. Geesh. You try and do something nice for someone because it's their birthday and you're feeling bad because they're now officially old and they just ignore the kindness of the gesture.

The past weekend was eventful and full of miscommunication. Anyone that knows me can attest to how much I love semi-organized chaos. Love it. Second helping please.

The Path of Miscommunication
1) Colleen and Jim arrive at Gorman's Pub at 7:00pm. The Bradley game started at 7:05pm. At 7:10pm they both figured I must have meant Richards on Main. They left, Jim dropped Colleen off at Richard's while he parked and she called me, wondering where we were? We were sitting Gorman's, albeit a tad late at 7:20pm.

2) Melissa, her sister Rebecca, Jim, Colleen and I follow each other to park at the library for the short jaunt to Tom Cat's. Melissa, Rebecca and I wait a while and figure Jim and Colleen have already walked to the bar. Ten minutes later, Jim and Colleen walked into the bar. They had been waiting in the parking lot.

3) The place has bathroom attendants?

4) Rob called to say the restaurant was swamped and he'd be late. No problem. Then we had the thought that it might be a good idea to be at a non-cover charge bar aka Sullivan's, by the time Rob was off work. As we all know, even though Rob has a loud, booming voice, he doesn't like the music loud and unable to hold a conversation. Old Man (Grandpa) Walker rears his head in these instances.

5) An hour later, Rob called. "Where are you guys?" "We're at Tom Cat's." "I just left Tom Cat's, I didn't see you." Confusion sets in as we all look around to see how we could possibly have missed birthday boy. "Did you pay the cover yet?" "Cover? No. Which Tom Cat's are you at?"

6) At this point, Jim points out the obvious, relating that we should probably just move the little soiree out north to the Recovery Room. We all imagined the look Rob would have after driving back downtown, parking a mile away, paying a $7 cover charge and finally sitting down. Yep. Moving the shindig was about the best move we could have made.

7) We arrive at the Recovery Room just as Jaime and Rob are having their traditional joint birthday shot at 12:00am. All is well...

8) The birthday boy and girl decided that for Jaime's 30th and Rob's 35th, we should have a mini-get-together at Chad's house to watch football and such until Sunday night's concert.

9) We arrive in the afternoon, expecting a gathering, and spend the day with Chuck and Chad, watching the games and playing Texas Hold'Em. (Go team walker)

10) The concert begins at 7pm. We arrive at 8pm. There were no more wristbands so I was marked by some sort of Sharpie to prove I was over 21. I waited in line forever while one person, took money as well as counted used drink tickets to hand out. Everyone else was taking a break. When I finally received my drink tickets, they were out of everything but Bud Light. To their credit, they did get more beer.

11) Jaime and Rob each took turns waiting outside, in the cold, with Chad for this cab. The cab never came.

12) We went home and toasted Rob with a nice bottle of wine.

Prelude to a Rob's Rant

2006-01-18T16:19:00.000-07:00

Rob's turning the BIG 35 this weekend. In honor of the big occassion, I'm going to allow him to post a special Rob's Rant. I'm pretty sure he'll figure out a topic since the last thing he griped about on the phone was Blago trying to ban firearms or something. I think I just cut him off in midsentence. Somedays it's not a chore to listen and some days it's painstaking since so many things are running through my head.

But first,

This weekend we'll be out celebrating Melissa's birthday as well as Rob's. He, of course, is working Saturday night so he'll have to join us later. Sunday, we're going to see a band with a bunch of people. Rob and his "little sister" share the same birthday. Should he call in sick Monday? I think so.

I should have exact details, soon, about a great fundraiser coming up to celebrate Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday.

If I had kids involved with District 150, I'd probably start packing cold lunches. And, I'd probably make sure they stayed the heck away from taco products.

How pissed am I that I spent $$ to join a fan club so as to have access to concert tickets before the official pre-sale and I never could get the tickets? Pretty freaking pissed. Jimmy Buffett boycotting mad.

It is so stupid that you have to show ID to obtain cold medicines. I thought we were pushing the envelope by keeping the products behind the pharmacy counter. Now everyone will know that I had a cough, Rob had a sinus infection or whatever. Stupid. It certainly won't stop the meth-makers, but that's okay. As long as it's more difficult for those of us not on the meth.

2006-01-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

Since I've apparently caught a version of Rob has, I'm a little grumpy. I'm a little sick of every germ or virus in the air going directly to my chest. I guess that's what happens when you have asthma, like it or not.

To carry on the theme, here are a few things that have been bugging me:

1) The use of doorbells in television commercials. Domino's Pizza is the biggest offender. Every dog in the house goes bezerk and runs to the front door because the other dogs are barking. Thanks for another relaxing evening.

2) Calling a business, asking for an employee by name and being asked, "Can I tell them who is calling?" No jackoff. You are the not the call screening nazi. Why does it concern them who is calling?

3) Heck, I don't have the energy...Colleen's 30th Birthday is tomorrow and I have to be 100% by then.

Don't Bring Me Down

2006-01-05T15:36:00.000-07:00

I've been listening to 102.3 MAX FM this week which is perfect for the closet 80's rockers out there. A little Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, Styx, Guns & Roses and REM to brighten your day.

After a terrific holiday weekend with the family and Rob's college roommates (who, after 8 years, should really start being referred to as "our" buddies from out of town), Rob was struck down with the flu. Not the pretty flu, mind you. The gross, disgusting, sanitize everything in the house flu.
Rule to Remember Before You Marry #1: Accept the fact that when your spouse is sick, the world is ending, everyone in it is going to hell, everything tastes like shit, God this house is messy and whine is the only tone besides crappy you'll hear.
Rule to Remember Before You Marry #2: Spouses who leave the sick partner at home so they can go to the bar and hang out may never be seen or heard from again.
Rule to Rember Before You Marry #3: Hours spent on the telephone venting about the abuses being hurled from the sick partner and justifying why sainthood is inevitable for healthy partner is okay.
Rule to Remember Before You Marry #4: Never break rule number 2 and the rest is forgivable and forgotten.

ELWOOD PLUG

2005-12-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

WHAT: ELWOOD

WHEN: Fri, Dec 23rd

TIME: 8-10PM

WHERE: THE DORMITORY, Farmington Rd

WHY: Spread the holiday cheer and enjoy the tunes of Rick and Jim

ANOTHER REASON WHY: Rockin' Christmas Tunes + The night before Christmas Eve is always a good time

YET ANOTHER REASON WHY: It's been said that the building is haunted by the ghost of Bernie Shelton.

Christmas Cheer...

2005-12-19T14:23:00.000-07:00

We finished wrapping all our Christmas presents last night. Step two is decorating all the packages. Step three is placing all the presents under the tree. It may seem like a no-brainer, but the pups have no concept that they are stepping on gifts. We can just cross our fingers and pray that they'll leave them alone for a week.

Exemplary Custmer Service During the Holiday Season:

1) Bed, Bath & Beyond
Everytime I've been in there everyone has been so helpful and always asking about gift receipts and boxes.

2) Kohl's
The cashiers seem to be extremely knowledgeable and offer boxes and gift receipts readily.

3) Bergners-Sheridan Village: Women's Department
Cashier took the time to ring up separate gift receipts for all purchases.

Below Average Customer Service During the Holiday Season:

1) Bergner's Sheridan Village-Purse Department
Three girls were working behind the counter. They finished their conversation before turning around to greet, acknowledge, blankly stare at me. Once the purse was rang up and being placed into a bag, I asked for a box. "We don't have boxes that size. You'll have to go ask the Lingerie Department for a robe box." So, my immediate thought is why would you sell expensive, large leather bags and not have gift boxes. I also thought that one of the three girls chatting could have done that for me but I realize that would only happen if hell froze over. I then asked her to place the gift receipt in the bag (without a box). She sort of exhaled and said, "You didn't tell me you needed a gift receipt. I'll have to void the transaction and redo it." Did she just say that? Isn't it Christmas? Why should I have to state that I needed a receipt? Every single retail worker in Peoria should just assume that every item being bought is a gift. So, I told her to forget it because I really didn't trust her to void the transaction and re-ring it. I didn't want to risk being double charged etc...
By the way, a couple of weeks ago at the same location, the same three girls were working. I was looking for a particular purse and they were a little busy gossiping about some of the people that work at Grand prairie to ask if they could help me find anything. FYI, might want to tone the gossip down. You never know who is listening.

2) Fluff-Westlake Shopping Center
Here's another hint for retail mavens. Customers like to be greeted and acknowledged. We may not want you breathing down our throats, but we like to know that you see we are in your store. Two different friends had this problem last week at Fluff. They circled the entire store several times looking for something in particular. (As an aside, children with ADD probably shouldn't go in there. Too much visual stimuli) The clerks were deep in conversation and never acknowledged them. Nice...Once again, please assume that everyone is Christmas shopping and not just browsing.

Has anyone else had any good/bad experiences this year?

Random Thoughts of Angie

2005-12-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

Just a few random thoughts...

1) How pissy am I that Fox cancelled Arrested Development and Kitchen Confidential? I just may boycott the channel.

2) Colin Farrell is in rehab for "exhaustion"and addiction to "prescription med." For God's sake, will you just come out and admit to the coke or heroin? I find it hard to believe that the hard partying playboy has a problem with the Vic or the Xan. I'm just sayin'... And you know if Kate Moss wasn't busted with the video of her snorting (insert Tony Montana accent) cocaine, her publicist would claim "exhaustion and prescription meds really sent her over the edge." And yes, I'm very aware of the real addiction to prescription meds that people have-so don't get all NA on me.

3) By far, the funniest name for a couple ever: Lindsay Lohan and Jared Leto (My So Called Life/Cameron Diaz) are now referred to as Jodan Catalohan

4) The Jaycee Christmas Party and the Primedia Christmas Party are both tomorrow night. Which will we go to?????

5) No plans at all for Christmas Evening...We're open to any suggestions. I'm thinking a little open house may be in order. Maybe then we can put to use the 10,000 board games we have stored in the coat closet.

Like I Was Saying...

2005-12-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

A couple posts ago, I mentioned that Rob has a tendency to break things. It's really not a big deal, it's not his fault. He just uses extreme force with delicate objects and it usually ends up not being too pretty.
Examples:

1) Washing a glass in the sink and crushing it

2) Opening a bottle of wine and breaking the neck off

3) Putting dishes in the sink and cracking two glasses

4) Putting a dish in the cabinet and cracking two dishes

5) Walking down the stairs and ripping the entire back off his jeans

There's a reason I usually do the dishes and he sews.

Last night, he was opening a gift set that included a bottle of B&B with two glasses.
The first one came right out and into my hands. The second one was crushed while still in the cardboard. The look on Rob's face was priceless. I couldn't tell if he was going to laugh or cry. We did laugh for quite a while. Only Rob can break a glass before it's even out of the cardboard box.

Rob's Rant...Return of the Glory Hound

2005-12-09T14:55:00.000-07:00

NOTICE: The views expressed in Rob's Rant may or may not be the views of this blogger. From time to time, Rob gets antsy to see his name on this blog. What a glory hound

Gun bill passes Senate
Concealed-carry legislation moves to the Assembly
By Todd Richmond The Associated Press

MADISON - Wisconsin residents could secretly carry guns under a bill the state Senate approved Tuesday that would end the state's 133-year-old ban on concealed weapons.
The Senate's 23-10 vote means the Republican-authored measure is now two steps from becoming law. The state Assembly must pass the bill. It would then go to Gov. Jim Doyle, who can sign it into law or veto it.

Republicans control both the Senate and the Assembly. The Assembly body could take up the measure as early as Tuesday, said Bob Delaporte, a spokesman for Assembly Speaker John Gard, R-Peshtigo.
But Doyle, a Democrat, vetoed an almost identical GOP bill in 2003 and has promised to kill this one as well.

Wisconsin is one of four states that don't allow concealed weapons. The National Rifle Association has been pushing the issue here for almost three years.

The bill would let Wisconsin residents who pass firearms training and obtain permits to carry concealed handguns, knives, billy clubs and electric shock weapons in public places such as schools, taverns, police stations, youth sporting events, day cares, college buildings and churches. Senate Republicans amended the bill late Tuesday to allow owners of day cares and domestic abuse shelters to permit concealed weapons.

Mr. Richmond,
I've never seen a more thinly veiled opinion in my life. Is this tongue-in-cheek or is this really reporting? I have never read your column or this paper so I may have happened upon a parody or a very left leaning publication without knowing it.

If you have an opinion just say it, don't try to play it off as reporting the news. The facts are very simple; a bill passed the senate 23-10 and will go to the Assembly which is likely to send it to the Gov., who has promised to veto said bill. The bill would allow WI residents to carry firearms concealed if they pass a background check and training course. A majority of WI lawmakers will have twice proposed this to the Gov. In the U.S. 46 states have provisions allowing concealed carry of firearms.

Your opening paragraph absolutely reeks of a person that's afraid of an inanimate object. An object that will be "secretly" carried about. A venomous snake lying in wait and that this snake will be killing a dear old friend at the age of 133.
Where will the snake lie in wait? Where else but schools and day care centers, colleges and churches. Waiting for youth athletes, babies and the abused.

That you are able to sell this tripe is yet another sign that the U.S. media has lost its mind.
I get it, you don't like guns, you probably think the Second Amendment is for soldiers and the police. If you think "the people" refers to the military and police perhaps you should leave the writing up to Stars and Stripes, because "the people" of the 2nd are the same "people" from the 1st. More about that at http://www.usdoj.gov/olc/secondamendment2.htm.

Your kind smells blood like sharks do. So where are all the stories of murder and misuse from the 46 states that allow concealed carry? Take the blinders off sir, the right to carry has reduced crime across the board and the accident rate is lower than the average among the nation's police agencies.

Your probably thinking "prove it" right about now so, here ya go. Let's take Florida for example (if you want to use any other state just let me know).
In 1987, when Florida enacted such legislation, homicide rates dropped faster than the national average. Further, through 1997, only one permit holder out of the over 350,000 permits issued, was convicted of homicide. (Source: Kleck, Gary Targeting Guns: Firearms and Their Control, p 370. Walter de Gruyter, Inc., New York, 1997.)
If the rest of the country behaved as Florida's permit holders did, the U.S. would have the lowest homicide rate in the world.

I expect, in no way, to influence your opinion on this matter. Fear of inanimate objects is a serious malady that will take years of therapy. I suggest you start your therapy with "Raging against self defense: A Psychiatrist examines the anti-gun mentality" by Sara Thompson M.D. http://www.jpfo.org/ragingagainstselfdefense.htm

If by chance, I mistook your writing for something it isn't, I apologize. Maybe you just have a very dull verbal machete. If you truly believe what you're insinuating, I'm sorry.

Merry Christmas,
Rob Walker

Down But But Not Out

2005-12-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

So, I broke my foot and have been out of commission for a while. My foot buckled and rolled thus breaking a bone. The good news is that I don't have to wear "the boot." Good thing too. I've seen them and they really aren't made for the vertically challenged. The thing would have come up to my armpit. I'm going back to the doctor Monday to have it x-rayed again and then I should be back to work. I'm almost out of the pain killers the doctors prescribed and let me be clear about one thing: extra-strength generic brand whatever doesn't do a thing for a broken bone.

Rob and I realized last night that all our Christmas parties are on the same night. Why does it always happen that way? I don't think I've ever been able to attend the Primedia holiday party. Rob's co-workers probably doubt my existance. On top of it all, the culmination of a huge promotion is the same night. Doesn't look like we'll be able to make any of the three parties. At least the F.Scott's X-Mas party is on Memorial Day.

There Was No Doubt...

2005-11-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

Here was how Sunday turned out:
Team Molly: F. Scott's decorated by 3:30pm
Team Sully: Sullivan's decorated by...maybe today...maybe tomorrow.
Either way, they took us to dinner at Aggie's.
As an aside, Sully isn't so much of a good loser. Excuses, Excuses.

Great Movie Quotes

2005-11-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

Mr. Larson: Amber, you hafta go home. There's some kinda emergency at the trailer park.

Amber: Relax, that's just my ma's code for, "Bring home milk and a carton-a Luckys"

From...Drop Dead Gorgeous

Harlan Pepper: I used to be able to name every nut that there was. And it used to drive my mother crazy, because she used to say, "Harlan Pepper, if you don't stop naming nuts," and the joke was that we lived in Pine Nut, and I think that's what put it in my mind at that point. So she would hear me in the other room, and she'd just start yelling. I'd say, "Peanut. Hazelnut. Cashew nut. Macadamia nut." That was the one that would send her into going crazy. She'd say, "Would you stop naming nuts!" And Hubert used to be able to make the sound, he couldn't talk, but he'd go "rrrawr rrawr" and that sounded like Macadamia nut. Pine nut, which is a nut, but it's also the name of a town. Pistachio nut. Red pistachio nut. Natural, all natural white pistachio nut.

From...Best in Show

Hamilton Swan: Honey, I'm thinking of switching to the mock turtleneck?
Meg Swan: Is that not breathing?
Hamilton Swan: Well, it's breathing now, but it'll be hot down there. I could go with the lambswool, but then again, you'll see a lot of khaki down there and this merlot looks good with the gray.

From...Best in Show

M'Lynn: Oh Ouiser, Drum would NEVER point a loaded gun at a lady!
Ouiser Boudreaux: Oh! He's a real gentleman! I bet he takes the dishes out of the sink before he PEES in it!

From...Steel Magnolias

Holiday Spirit

2005-11-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, our tree is up. Yes, I'm aware of the date. Our tree is still up. At least only part of the 2,000 lights are twinkling. That would be really annoying. We still have to decorate the tree but that takes time, patience and wine. It's unbelievable how anal Rob can be when it comes to hanging ornaments. Of course, ever the graceful giant, many ornaments will break-necessitating several trips to the store to replace the bulbs. I've noticed an obscenely wrong trend towards fuchsia and purple ornaments. Not quite along the color scheme of the Walker family Christmas decor.

Sunday, we're going to breakfast and then down to F.Scott's to decorate for the holidays. It's really not the holiday season until Sully has both places decorated. There really isn't anything better than walking into F.Scott's after Christmas shopping and having a glass of wine. It's quite the magical place in December.

The Peoria Jaycees are once again running two projects that have become holiday staples.
1) Santa Visits the Kids
This project is very dear to me since it was the first event that I attended as a new member. The membership and Santa go to various shelters and distribute Christmas presents. Area restaurants donate food so that we can give a little mini-holiday party for the families.

2) Santa's Little Helpers
Members of our adopt-a-school are taken to breakfast and then holiday shopping for their families. We go back to the school and everyone helps to wrap and decorate the gifts.

Sophie really gets into the holiday spirit. She knows it's that time of year when she gets to dress up in all her holiday outfits. Since she chewed up my favorite shoe last night, she may not be getting anything new this year. She might have to wear the same outfit as last year. I'm such a great mommy. Vito just prays that he doesn't have to wear the reindeer ears.

Whatcha Doin' on the 1st?

2005-11-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

Team Walker's favorite local music duo ELWOOD, aka Jim Potts and Rick Gustafson, will be playing at Kelleher's on Thursday, December 1st. Many of you may remember that due to an unfortunate freight elevator incident, ELWOOD was unable to play at the Toast for the Gulf Coast in September. They're back and ready to play the music we love. I think ELWOOD should add more Keb Mo' to their playlist but we do love the Etta!!

It's That Time of Year Again (already)

2005-10-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

Anyone that knows Team Walker has a mild understanding of what happens when duck/goose season begins. This year, duck season begins Saturday and ends December 27th. Rob must be in bed "super early" because he has to be at the blind before sunrise. Add to that the drive from Peoria to Henry and you're looking at getting up pretty freaking early (or late depending on the amount of fun being had the previous evening).

I would like to personally thank the Illinois Department of Resources for making the weekend before Halloween opening weekend. Rest assured that no duck hunters will be enjoying Halloween parties or festivities. (Insert whiney voice, "I can't go... I have to be up too early) It looks like I'll be the 3rd wheel for the next nine weeks so watch out, I may be calling you.

Welcome Back Sadie

2005-10-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

Colleen called this morning to say they found Sadie last night. She was in the field by the Fire Station. Although quite shaken up, she was given a bath and probably the longest hug of her life and is recuperating happily at home with Sampson.

Yogi is very happy she's home.

Sadie Kelly-Rinehart

2005-10-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

Choco Lab Sadie Kelly-Rinehart of Dunlap is missing.
Sadie is an extremely large, beautiful lab. She is the eternal soul mate of Sampson Kelly-Rinehart and the proud mother of Yogi Walker and Minnie and Maggie Kelly-Rinehart.
She was last seen in her fenced in back yard. The fact that Sampson is not missing is of concern. The two are joined at the hip and follow each other everywhere. I hope to post a picture of Sadie soon. There are currently fliers posted at the Dunlap Veterinary Clinic, the Legion, The Eagles Nest, Christy's and gas stations. Please be on the look out for her.

Just a Little Warning

2005-10-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

If you happen to live anywhere between Knoxville and University make sure to lock your car doors at night. There've been several instances of people opening car doors and taking cash.

It Happens to Us...

2005-10-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening, Rob and I volunteered at Nightmare on Northmoor-The Peoria Jaycees Haunted House. Rob requested a "drop window" so that he didn't have to move around too much. (Insert Sarcasm) Poor baby was building a duck blind all day and was feeling exhausted. Julie and I had the (fun, fun, fun) job of the moving train and horn. With fifteen minutes to go before the house closed, someone asked me if I was driving a GMC Envoy. Yep-we had Papa Walker's vehicle. "Your car's been hit...The police officer wants to talk to you." Well, it turns out that some kids accidentally backed into the front corner. While I was imagining a tangled mess of chrome and paint, it's not really that bad. I felt really sorry for the kid driving-I think it was his first accident. Anyway, since it was on private property we didn't have to file a police report and all insurance information was exchanged. While Rob and I just shook our heads I did make one valid observation. If Walker luck were to remain true and we had one of our vehicles, the person would have taken off and the damage would have been a lot worse. I'm just sayin'...

30,000 Tourists-What About the Residents?

2005-10-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

This article explains how there are some 30,000 tourists stranded in Mexico due to Hurricane Wilma. I can see how the situation is extremely unpleasant. I wouldn't want to be stranded in a foreign area during and after a natural disaster, who would? This article has a couple quotes from American tourists wondering why there hasn't been any help from the US Government?

There are so many things I find disturbing about this article. President Fox wants to make sure that all efforts are made to get the resort city of Cancun ready for tourism by December. Five hundred thousand residents have lost their homes and belongings and the main concern is tourism? Yes, I get that tourism keeps Cancun running, but a little compassion and aid for the residents would be nice. Maybe if I had never met Alex Eguia-Lis I wouldn't feel so jaded and disappointed. Cancun is held together by people working in the service industry those people should be taken care of first.

The Neighborhood

2005-10-19T13:37:00.000-07:00

http://wmbd1470.com/archives/2005/10/19/sheridan-mcclure-studied/

Lippman's is moving from Sheridan Rd. to Pioneer Parkway. The neighborhood surrounding McClure and Sheridan had been having problems, but things seemed to be looking up. Living five blocks away from the area for over 6 years, I have a few observations.

1) In the past few months, it seems that the issue of loitering in a few spots has diminished. The gas station and the liquor store seem to have gotten more vocal about letting people stand around in large groups in the parking lots.

2) I think both Whitey's and The Sports Page have done a terrific job of keeping the wrong element out and yet making patrons feel safe.

3) There is a clause in the lease of the store on the corner of McClure and Sheridan that requires the occupant to sell black lacquer panthers and velvet paintings.

4) Whenever driving on Sheridan, past McClure, towards Main Street, a pedestrian will try to cross the street just as you approach.

5) Frankie's & Johnny's will never succeed like Dairy Queen did at that location.

Here I Am!

2005-10-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

Posting has been light for numerous reasons.

1) Another death in the Walker clan-Grandma Peachy passed away last week. On the bright side, at least she passed away peacefully and without pain. The woman was one of the most talented handicrafts women I've ever met. The never ending supply of plastic bag storers can attest to that!

2) Rob went off to another gun show in Knob Creek, Kentucky-meaning that I had my hands full with the house and the pups. He got back last night and showed up at the party Rick and Beth threw. It was his first time at Casa De Owens and lucky for him-he got there just in time for the Hat Party ritual. If I only had pictures!

3) Work has been crazzzzzy insane. I've been waking up in the wee hours obsessing and having mini-anxiety attacks. Deep breaths, deep breaths....

4) Every place I usually blog from (Gary or Dad's) is having computer problems. I really need to have Nerds on Call or someone over to both homes to see what's going on. Of course, it will probably all come back on me being on the computers but hey, whatcha gonna do? Soon, we'll have a new computer at home and all will be right with the world again.

Lynddie

2005-10-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

Saturday night, I caught the Dateline NBC interview with Lynndie England. It was a very good interview, except for the awkward moment Stone Phillips asked her what she was going to tell her son if he read about her in history books? First, I will admit that "Doin' the Linddy" is one of the most hysterical things I've ever witnessed. The image of Rob "Doin' theLinddy" behind this girl who eerily resemebled Linddy was too much for me to handle. Trying to figure out if the person was a man or a woman was even too much.

After watching the interview, I really feel there is no way in hell she should be imprisoned. Yes, she used bad judgement. Yes, she was in love with an absolute jerk who not only used her, but pressured her into posing for all those pictures. Then, if all that wasn't enough, he married another woman involved with the scandal. CLASS ACT. Hopefully her sentence will be reduced and she'll be out soon.

The Toast Made Some Dough

2005-10-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

With only 3 weeks of planning, the Toast for the Gulf Coast was a huge success. Preliminary numbers show that about $46,000 was raised. The oil painting by Lonnie Stewart was sold for $9,100. Not too shabby. Jim Potts and Rick Gustafson aka Elwood were unable to play due to a minor accident during the set up. Jim's hand was slammed in the freight elevator, resulting in a few broken bones. He's getting a cast today and hopefully will be recuperating in no time.

Toast for the Gulf Coast Update

2005-09-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

THE BOAT DRUNKS will be playing the main stage beginning around 7:30pm.

Suprise!! I'm Back!!

2005-09-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

And I've actually posted.
See below.

TOAST FOR THE GULF COAST

2005-09-21T15:36:00.000-07:00

I've been lucky enough to be involved with the planning of this wonderful event.

WHAT: Toast For the Gulf Coast

HUH?: A taste of New Orleans style event with food, entertainment, music and beverages.
Admission is $10 at the gate-including 10 complimentary "taste" tickets. You decide
which foods you want more of.

THE GRUB: Area merchants include Kelleher's, The Big Easy, Rizzi's on State, One World Eats & Drinks, Hick'ry Stick, JJ Ryans, Creative Cooking and Rhodell.

BEVERAGES: Look forward to plenty of non-alcoholic concoctions, along with your favorites from Brewer's Distributing. FEATURED DRINK: "The Un-Hurricane"

WHEN: Thursday, September 29th 3:00pm-10:00pm

WHERE: Water Street (okay, Bourbon Street for the night) between State and Walnut. A.K.A.-the road in front of Kelleher's and Rhodell Brewery.

WHY: To benefit The Boys and Girls Club of Peoria, The Red Cross and The Salvation Army.
Seventeen Boys & Girls Club facilties along the Gulf Coast were destroyed or severly damaged by Hurrican Katrina. Biloxi, Miss. (Peoria's adopted city) lost six of their seven units.

WANT TO HELP OUT? Please email me!!!

Just Because I Haven't Posted...

2005-09-21T15:19:00.000-07:00

Doesn't mean that the drama has ceased. Far from it.

Have you noticed that on North Street, past Nebraska, the road is closed? It's been like this for about a month. You can stay on North until it reaches Arcadia and then you have to turn onto Arcadia and turn left on Bigelow to reach McClure. I'VE NEVER SEEN A CONSTRUCTION WORKER-EVER. So, why is the road closed?

When my gas tank is empty, gas prices seem to jump $0.20 a gallon. The second I fill-up, the gas price decreases by $0.20-every time.

If everyone that has been pulling out in front of me, causing me to slam on my breaks would have waited for my vehicle to pass, they would have an empty lane all to themselves. What is wrong with waiting 2.5 seconds (for a car to pass) and then pulling out? I think that sentence might be misinterpreted.

Sophie and Vito have been petrified by the recent storms. It's only been in the past year that either of them have ever had a problem. Sophie starts shaking and Vito steps up his panting. I think Sophie is more scared of the lightening than anything else. She winces everytime she sees a flash.

What Have I Been Doing Besides Not Blogging?

2005-09-07T16:05:00.000-07:00

Here's the weekend in a nutshell:

Saturday: Funky bathroom off I-55, 45 minutes on Milwaukee Avenue, drag queens and more drag queens at the Baton Lounge, Howl at the Moon has some expensive drinks, we rode in a limo and Diane was egged at the 24 hour burrito place by a carload of girls. Dirty, Dirty Sanchez (the blow up doll I bought is a cross between Burt Reynolds in Gator and Pedro from Napolean Dynamite)

Sunday: Highways are dead on the Sunday before Labor Day. Rob made awesome appetizers for Kevin and Melissa's party. Note: I am a good cook. Rob usually cooks because I'm busy on the weekends, but I can cook. Just so everyone knows.

Monday: Spent most of the wee morning at the hospital with Dad. Went home to nap and Rob cleaned the entire house. What a good man!

Tuesday: Most of the afternoon at the hospital. Seriously dislike the cafeteria hours.

Wednesday: Talked to the doctor about Dad. Looks like he's going to be fine. Saw a bicyclist on the ground at the intersection of Jefferson and Kumpf Blvd. Very creepy.

The Labor Day Weekend Show...

2005-09-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

Roxy has convinced me to try and win tickets at American Pie tonight for the Wrigley Field show on Monday. I'll temporarily lift my Buffett ban if I win. If I don't, the ban still stands. Nothing like holding steadfast to your beliefs. I'm a rock. Never compromising.

We're going to Chicago Saturday and then to a friend's Labor Day party on Sunday. Since we have no plans for Monday, I'm hoping Rob will want to help me clean around the house. I'm guessing his huntings plans will extend into the weekend.
For anyone keeping score: Geese-0, Doves-0, BlueGill and Catfish-buttloads.

UPDATE: Geese-0, Doves-11, still buttloads of bluegill and catfish!

It's a Bit Ironic

2005-08-31T14:05:00.000-07:00

...that Rob and I had just talked over the weekend about trying to get to New Orleans this fall. Rob's been a million times and as usual, I haven't. It seems that everyone we know has been there so often that I can pretty much list an itinerary of places we'd go. Okay, maybe places we'd eat and drink and where we'd have a late night hot dog on the street or a Crystal burger.

The fact that so many people are looting, just to obtain "stuff" makes me ill. I think everyone can agree upon taking food, water and medical supplies-but televisions, jewelry and silk flowers? As a country, and even here locally, we're raising money without question, because that's how we support one another. I'm guessing that the people looting the stores would not be a part of that giving, if the roles were reversed. They will, however, be relying on the kindness of strangers and they will get relief-whether it be food, water, housing or cash. I really hope that some of the people realize how lucky they are to be alive.

I Haven't Posted In Awhile...

2005-08-26T18:43:00.000-07:00

Our Dear Friend lost his mother this week. While Rob and I have been in a fog-I guess the world still revolves. It takes something like that to almost lift the fog and get you straight again. It's really easy to let that fog overcome you...but when your friend is hurting, you are too. It's time to snap back to who you are and that self that the other person needs.

Rob and Gary are away this weekend at the Duck's Unlimited Festival in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Of course, I only spelled it because I can't remember the postal abbreviation. That's so wrong...

Since I'm Angie, of course I've had some drama lately. Try ordering flowers for a visitation, only to be told that since they had to be teleflorist (a Washburn funeral home or, the only funeral home in Washburn, who knows?) that particular florist didn't have what you wanted. Not only was my arrangement one shot away from red and white carnations, they were seriously lacking in the height that I asked for AND they were in the cardpaper funeral arrangement vase instead of the colored glass vase I requested. I swear, it only happens to me. Colleen and Jim's arrangement was beautiful and flowery, for the same price. I just can't win. And, on top of all that, when we stopped at Kouri's in Germantown Hills, the order of cheeseballs sucked!!!!! Exactly 15 cheeseballs, that were burnt, for $5.25! What the hell is that? Colleen couldn't get over that the Kouri's in Peoria was cheaper, had more balls and have never been burnt. Trust me, I can't believe I wrote that sentence either.

Fixed IT

2005-08-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

Anyone can now post a comment.
Took me awhile, but I rectified the situation.
Next up, how the hell do I get links on my blog?

Birthday Weekend

2005-08-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

Last night, Melissa and Kevin invited me to dinner with them at F.Scott's. Since Rob was working, I jumped at the chance. Yesterday was Melissa's last day of taking Tamoxifen for the past 5 years. A little celebration was in order. After much haggling, we decided to have Rob wait on our table. I was opting for Sue, but KP and Mel convinced me that Rob was indeed a fine server. Someone gets voted Best Server in Peoria by the River City Times and their head just swells.

Dinner was fabulous-I'm seriously endorsing the pork fillet-and KP and Mel picked up the tab. How nice!!! What a great start to the birthday weekend. While waiting for Rob to get finished, I kind of got sucked into the weekly Trivial Pursuit game. It's always girls against boys. Not too shabby on the trivia. One day, my inane pop culture knowledge will make me millions. Until then...

Yesterday, we went out to Tanners Orchard. It always seems like a pain because it's a little out there, but then you get there and you remember why you make the drive. This weekend is their peach festival and let me just say...yum! So fresh!

Another Day, Another Year Older

2005-08-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

So, in honor of my upcoming 31st birthday (Saturday...for anyone who forgot....or would like to extend birthday wishes, which I will graciously accept) I thought I would share some personal info read: it's all about me.

Plans for the weekend:

Friday: Attend Past President's Party of the Peoria Jaycees featuring a roast for COB Roxy Baker (hey, I just watched the Pam Anderson roast-wonder if it will be similar? I will not be reprising the Courtney Love role-sorry) and then attend pre-birthday bash at the Recovery Room to celebrate John's birthday. Firehouse Pizza will probably be in demand. It's going to be a tie between BBQ chicken pizza or Cheeseburger pizza. Hmmm... Parrothead's birthday, I'm thinking Cheeseburger (in Paradise)-it's so wrong that I seriously spelled it Paradice. Good gravy.

Saturday: Attend bridal shower for Renee-dinner with Dad, Aunt Caroline, Colleen, Jim and Rob at the Fish House-birthday bash at the Recovery Room. Not necessarily a bash so much as a two day celebration. Note: Did someone say shots? At least they don't charge for ice, no worries there.

Sunday: Maybe Walker family get-together?

Favorite Saying: What's good for the goose is always good for the gander, Irish sailor.
Least Favorite Saying: Fool, Shut Your...

Favorite Restaurant: F. Scott's Whiskey Bar
Least Favorite Restaurant: Childers

Favorite Thing to Do: Hang out at the Walker Family pool
Least Favorite Thing to Do: Paying bills

Favorite Song: Upstairs, Downtown, You Spin Me Round, Summer of '69
Least Favorite Song: Crazy, The Night Has a Thousand Eyes

Favorite Song to Sing at Karoke: Copacabana-You're So Vain-It's Raining Men
Least Favorite Song to Sing at Karoke: Cecilia (thank you Roxy and Colleen)

Favorite Song to Hear at Karoke: Katie singing City of New Orleans and Tom/Brian singing Blue Moon
Least favorite Song to Hear at Karoke: Fancy-just don't do it

Favorite Tradition: Pre-Xmas dinner at Red Lobster with the family, Dog Biscuit Hunt Easter morning and Fairview Farms
Least Favorite Tradition: Buffets and more buffets

Celebrity I Just Don't Get: Janice Dickerson-world's first supermodel? Wasn't that Twiggy?
Celebrity That Shouldn't Be a Celebrity: Omarosa, she was fired for God's sake.

Best Thing I Can Cook: Tortellini Michelangelo
What I Should Never Cook Again: Bread Pudding

Favorite Robism: "You Must Not Have Been Holding Your Mouth Right"
Least Favorite Robism: "They can have my guns when they pry them from my cold dead hands"

Nobody That Knows Me Will Believe: My brother got me into playing the Magic card game for a few years.

Moment I Knew I Loved Radio: Calling into the John Williams show on WMBD every Friday night for the Trivia Game and solving the Ellery Queen Mystery Minute every morning.

Age I had my First Public Relations Moment: Six, I called the Journal Star to tell them they had to come take a picture of my brother's snowman, the Hawaiin Punch guy.

Believe it Or Not: I'm really good at card games when my opponents don't cheat.

Another Steakhouse?

2005-08-15T13:27:00.000-07:00

I was reading CJ's post over at Summers in Peoria http://peoriasummers.blogspot.com/ and I can't help but have my own opinions on the closing of VOP's and the opening of Bud's Aged Steaks.

Vonachen's Old Place (owned by Mercedes Restaurants) was a moderately priced restaurant with a great atmosphere and for the most part, a good team of servers, bartenders, cooks and hosts. Whether your family went there after church for breakfast or you were meeting friends for Happy Hour on Friday, everything was always the same. To be honest, I probably hadn't eaten there since my friend Jaime's wedding two years ago-but, I had met plenty of groups up for cocktails at the bar.

I don't really know much about the restaurant closing or how the employees were notified or what they were told. I can only surmise that if they were told anything, it was at the last minute. Most restaurants tend to pull the plug at the very last possible second so that employees don't have a chance to not show up or help with final clean-up (once again, going by my experiences only).

Let's talk about that other fine Mercedes restaurant, The Grill. Also a Peoria staple for years and years until Mercedes management decided that Sonoma Cucina would be a better fit for downtown Peoria. The restaurant served more Italian food and still had some of The Grill's menu items. When S.C. didn't flourish, the restaurant was switched back to The Grill. Whooaaa. Talk about confusing anyone and everyone. One day we're going to a Bradley game and it's SC, then, we're going to a Pirate's game and it's The Grill. So, once everyone was inevitably confused, the restaurant closed for good.

So, they were saying that Bud's will be a higher-end steakhouse. Compared to??? Maybe I'm a little cheap, but I don't consider Alexander's (Mercedes Restaurants' only current steakhouse) to be even moderately priced. The atmosphere is very casual and the average bill for two is probably $45-$60.

Maybe the Peoria area needs more higher-end restaurants. Jim's Steakhouse, F.Scott's Bar, The Bistro, Red Zin, Carnegie's, The Fish House, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse, Two Chez, Jonah's, Seven on Prospect and Jill's may not be taking up the entire market share.

I don't even want to get started on the moderately priced steakhouses that seem to be all the rage. Every single weekend, Ned Kelly's and Texas Roadhouse are packed and I guarantee you people are ordering steak at Chili's, Applebee's and Cheddar's, just as well. Yet, The Outback, a chain restaurant with almost constant higher-quality closed.

There seems to be a serious lack of moderately priced restaurants with good atmospheres. I don't want to have to spend over $100 every time we want to go out.

Blogger Bash III: 3-D

2005-08-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

Casual Observations...

I've never seen so many people actually watching Anaconda. Alex and I totally forgot that Owen Wilson was in it. And Ice Cube. And J Lo. And Eric Stoltz. And Jon Voight. What happened?

I soooo have to watch the Poseidon Adventure.

Blogger.....Non-Blogger---ha ha ha

Hey Pammy, thanks for the beer!

CJ, we called our friend in Colorado, he said he'll move back if they build the trail.

What the hell was going on with that circumcision discussion? Good gravy.

Walker Family Pool Fun

2005-08-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Saturday, we were all hanging out at the pool. I kept seeing hornets flying around so I brought out the big spray can of hornet and wasp killer. Being scared to death of anything which flies and has a stinger-I thought Donny should take on the task. He was on a rampage, killing a bunch here and there and then we noticed they were all flying out of a particular area. He and Rob start spraying and all of a sudden, I hear, "Get in the pool, now!" I'm the kind of person that doesn't really need to know why because it obviously can't be good. So, I jumped in the pool fully clothed. Gary said he turned around and saw all of us jumping in the pool and thought, "What the hell?" It had to be pretty funny.

Addictive Television

2005-08-05T13:05:00.000-07:00

Lately, Rob and I have come across some great television shows. We all know that I consider myself a huge pop culture junkie, thus I was ashamed to admit one of our new favorite shows is entering its second season. (Bad Angie-Bad Angie)

I have to admit that Monday evenings won't be the same without Hell's Kitchen. I swear, Rob would get downright giddy about it being on. Or was that the wine we were required to have on hand? Either way-Michael won and even though he did get all creepy when he was talking to the Chef Ramsay billboard-we were rooting for him. I didn't really understand if he turned down the restaurant to train with Chef Ramsay in Europe or what the final deal was? Speaking of Hell's Kitchen, I was watching Kathy Griffin on Bravo and spotted Jessica (short, blonde with a girlfriend) sitting in the front. Weird.

The Takedown: Court TV Tues and Wed nights.
This guy who apparently used to be a big cheat has gone legit and now tests out security for various businesses like casinos, galleries and retail stores. It's craaazzzy to see the way these people can scam casinos. It's almost like when you're watching a suspenseful episode of Dukes of Hazzard that has the boys snooping around Boss Hogg's office and you know he's coming and they're still opening drawers and file cabinets and you see Boss Hogg's hand on the door knob, turning it...That's what it's like.

Ghosthunters: Sci Fi Channel, Wed
Since I'm not a Trekkie (sorry, Mark) and have never seen Battle Star Galactica-I've never had a reason to stop on this channel, thus season two has already started. Until there was a Ghosthunters marathon!! Roto-Rooter plumbers by day-crack paranormal team by night. They use a scientific approach to prove or disprove paranormal activity. I was getting a little jaded (i.e. no proof) until one particular episode featuring a military armory. Holy Crap! A cameraman got knocked down-by no one. He eventually quit the show. What's really cool is that they record while they're investigating and sometimes when they play back the audio you can hear specific things being said.

Kill Reality: E! Thurs.
This show sucks. I really thought it might be decent(Donny) -but I couldn't even watch the first episode all the way through. I did watch last night as I was doing crosswords, but I don't think that counts.

Being Bobby Brown: Bravo Thurs.
Let's just say that while I happen to like watching what is definately a train running off its tracks-Rob likens it to him making me watch Bow Hunting with Mac and Earl.

Hogan Knows Best: VH1
Hulk Hogan rocks! Not just saying that because I was addicted to wrestling when I was in grade school. Yes, I believed it was real. I did however get to ride an elevator with the British Bulldogs and the Junkyard Dog. JYD! When I heard them chit-chatting about what they were doing that night, the illusion was over.

Big Brother 6: CBS everyday
I thought this would be boring but it's getting really good. The so called "good guys" are a group that think they're being America's favorites but I think everyone hates them. Gotta be rooting for Kaiser. My favorite part has to be the Live Thursday Show-Chenbot(I wish I could take credit, but I can't) is so stiff and her interactions with the houseguests are so awkward that it's hilarous. I really love when she gets to reveal "One More Part...of the Summer of Secrets." (Cue: Dunt Dunt Dunt music)

Entourage: HBO Sundays
Absolutely the best reason to have HBO On Demand. Soooooo funny.

Heartfelt Gratitude

2005-08-05T12:56:00.000-07:00

We feel truly blessed by the outpouring of support we've received from everyone during the past few weeks. Rob is especially appreciative of all the firemen, current and retired, that came to show their support for Mama Walker. The funeral director estimated anywhere between 600 and 800 people attended the visitation-and she only wanted 1 hour prior to the services. That's definitely a testament to how many people she affected.

Mama Walker

2005-07-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone for their love and support.

Visitation: Wednesday, July 27th 4pm at Wilton's Mortuary on Knoxville

Funeral: Thursday, July 28th, 11am at Westminster Church on Moss Avenue, Visitation 1 hour before services.

Mamma Walker Update

2005-07-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Rob and I really appreciate everyone's prayers. Although we're trying to be optimistic, the reality is grim. It's difficult to switch gears in mid-stride, but we've realized we have no choice.

Peace and Love.

Who Needs It?

2005-07-08T06:13:00.000-07:00

Last night, our power was interrupted for over an hour. It began with a flicker, then ten minutes later, another flicker and then the outage. A friend's mom works at AmerenCilco and told her that there were problems underground on University. This is the same friend that went to Schnuck's on University to pay her Ameren bill and their power was out-so they couldn't accept the payment.

After Sky Concert Monday evening, a few friends were driving along McClure and North streets and noticed the electricity out in that area. That was a little more dangerous because people were lighting fireworks and cars couldn't see the people (kids) in the street.

Two weeks ago, our neighborhood was without power for nearly two hours. I think it's getting ridiculous. What's going on and why isn't AmerenCilco being held accountable for servicing its customers?

Fun Things Coming Up

2005-07-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

ROCK THE BOAT 2005

For the second year in a row, the Peoria Jaycees have organized Rock the Boat. It's a 2 hour cruise on the Spirit of Peoria with Jam Sammich, plenty of food and beverages, and a ton of people. It's always a good time and you get to cruise the beautiful Peoria lake. www.jacees.com
has more information.

TWO LIVE CREW

Next Saturday, the Crew is playing at Babes on Main. Considering I spent 90% of my teen years dancing to their songs at Stage Two (I just totally dated myself), I think this is a must for me. My thinking is this is probably a girls night out thing as Rob would rather listen to 30 women singing "Fancy" at karoke rather than hear Two Live Crew.

BLOGGER BASH II

Next Saturday, at Whitey's on Sheridan around 8 o'clock is the return of Blogger Bash! Imagine a bunch of people talking about local poo poo and their blogs. If that in any way sounds fun to you, then join in!

Mary Kate Olsen on Crack?

2005-07-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

http://www.liquidgeneration.com/games/olsens_crackman.asp

This is so wrong but so fun!

DMV=High School

2005-06-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

Walking into the Department of Motor Vehicles will make any self-respecting adult feel like the Dean just busted them for wearing their uniform above the knee. Okay, maybe not any adult, just those that were female and went to a catholic high school.
They have that huge sign that sign that mandates everyone must see the Information Officer at the front desk. Thankfully, I noticed the Sticker Renewal Line Only sign, so I got to bypass the fun of that little group. Slipping past the front desk, I was waiting to hear the Information Officer bark out, "Where are you going?" It's happened before. My guess is that the 100 person line I was extending was probably a good indicator of my "master plan to deceive the DMV Information Officer."

Being stuck in a line that size is really no fun. Sure, you could chat up a fellow line detainee, but that just gets awkward after a while. Why chat with someone when there are always multitudes of children that make more noise than a parking lot of bikers during a poker run? I might just be that awful human being that doesn't think every child I see is a cute, precious little being. The moms' are oblivious to the fact that the rest of the people waiting in line don't need to hear the baby talk at top volume. Nor, do we all want to make friends with little Kiera and Bobby.
In a line that size, inevitably, another worker decides to throw some order into the mix. "Does everyone know that this is the line for sticker re-newel only?" Yes. "All checks are made payable to the Secretary of State!" Damn it, I made the check out to Organ Donations. "If you don't have a pen, borrow one from your neighbor!" Neighbor? That, right there, was straight out of high school.

Now, I'm not saying you have to go to the hair salon and get your nails done to go to the DMV, but c'mon. I can't be the only person who has noticed a disturbing trend with people coming straight from the swimming pool. The best game you can play while waiting in line is to count the number of t-shirts, worn by women, not children, featuring Tweety Bird, Eyeore, Sylvester, Minnie Mouse or Daisy Duck. No lie, I counted seven.

I'm fully aware that for a little extra you can get your sticker on-line or at several satellite locations around town. I think next year it will be South Side Bank for me-but at least I can say I know Kiera and Bobby, right?

More Driving Drama

2005-06-28T13:42:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, Papa Walker was involved in a minor fender bender. He was on the ramp that connects Route 29 to Route 150, right below the Goodwill Store on the hill. The car in front of him was at the stop sign, proceeded to move forward a few feet , saw a car and stopped. Not before the Papa saw it was clear, began to go and slammed into the back of her vehicle. While he got a ticket, the police officer said that he gives out these particular tickets 100 times a year. That's like one every three to four days. I'd say our traffic systems are a little dangerous. I will admit that I am so that driver. I drive so many different sized vehicles that sometimes it's safe for me to merge and other times I suddenly remember that I'm in a long cargo van and there is no way I can make it.

To The A**holes on Hamilton and North:
I thought we cleared this up a while ago-obviously you need a re-fresher. As I'm proceeding towards Peoria Central High School from Main Street, I have a stop sign. The cars coming up Hamilton have a stop sign on North Street. The cars coming from Peoria Central High turning left down Hamilton DO NOT HAVE A STOP SIGN. YOU MUST YIELD TO THEM. That is how the stop signs read. Because I am yielding to cars that are turning left down Hamilton, when it is clear, I fully expect those at the Hamilton and North stop sign to wait for me to go through the intersection. IF YOU SNEAK IN AS I'M APPROACHING, YOU'RE AN A**HOLE. Not to mention rolling stops are illegal. Please have consideration and respect for your fellow drivers. Hate to break it to you, you're not that important. Don't be an a-hole.

Summer Reading....

2005-06-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

Not that I have much time (unlike friends of mine who do nothing but take their children to the pool) this Summer, but I'm trying to get a few books read. Some are easier than others.

The Dogs of Babel by Carolyn Parkhurst: I've read about 8 chapters and I have no problem putting the book down. The premise is just a tad too far out there for me. A widower (linguistics professor) vows to teach his dog to speak so he can find out how his wife died. The dog is the only witness. If I, of all people, are having problems with this, it may just be a little to wacky.

God Knows His Name: The True Story of John Doe No. 24 by Dave Bakke: A deaf man is institutionalized because he can't speak. So far, very interesting and written by a Springfield reporter.

Writing and Reporting News: A Coaching Method by Carole Rick: Senior year text book from a journalism class.

Dean Koontz's Frankenstein: Book One Prodigal Son: At one point, I owned a copy of each of his books. That was before he became involved in all things science fiction. This book is a terrific return to the writing of his past. I read this one in 6 hours.

Anyone else reading anything interesting?

Mama Walker Update

2005-06-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

Mama Walker came home for the weekend! She was up in Chicago for 54 days. She had to go back yesterday but the odds are great that she'll be home tomorrow. Then, barring any infections or mishaps, it's back to Chicago every Wednesday for testing. While she was home and probably for the next week she'll be on an IV for an hour twice a day to fight the infection. We had a quiet dinner the night she came home with just the immediate family. Being home for those three days probably did more for her spirits and health than anything in Chicago would have.

How to Drive Your Server Crazy...

2005-06-20T13:23:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, there was a perfect example of what a party of 9 can do to piss off everyone in a restaurant.

1. Walk into restaurant and declare how many people are in your party and demand to know exactly how long it will be until you're seated.
2. While the host is setting up your table do any of these:
a) crowd around the host so he/she can't move or get the job done
b) sit at the table before it is correctly set
c) when a member of your party says, "I think we should wait to sit until he/she is finished setting the table," respond with, "What the hell is he/she going to do about it?"
3. Snap your fingers to get the server's attention
4. Assume everyone working in the restaurant is a grade school drop out and treat them as such.
5. Talk loudly, boldy and vehemenlty about sensitive subjects such as abortion, school districts and gun control with their being no chance that some of the employees are nurses, principals and avid hunters/conservationists.
6. Ignore all rules of etiquette, put your elbows up on the table, hang your head over your plate and dive in!
7. Never tip more than 10 percent when gratuity isn't included because the grade school drop outs should get better jobs.

Michael Jackson Verdict

2005-06-13T14:20:00.000-07:00

whatever.

Rob's Rant: Part Four-Return of the Rant

2005-06-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

NOTICE: The views expressed in Rob's Rant may or may not be the views of this blogger. From time to time, Rob gets antsy to see his name on this blog. What a glory hound.

Rob's Rant:
Well, I tried to write a rant but just had to quit after more than one page. I won't submit you to that much "Rob." If you want the full diatribe, I'm sure to oblige some night, on a barstool at the Recovery Room. Angie's note: He's the guy at the end of the bar talking passionately about a subject, usually rather loudly. I'll be the girl at the opposite end of the bar playing the touch screen game so I don't have to hear the same story 36 times.

The whole thing was about how the gun-ban crowd will hack away at the 2nd Amendment until it's gone. How they will vilify a category of firearms until the unknowing public thinks that type of gun will cause the collapse of civilization. Read: Assault weapon, high-capacity & .50 caliber sniper rifle. All the while, this bunch of fear mongers will tell the gun owners of the U.S. "We just want the evil guns."

I say BULLSHIT.

The gun-banners are just taking a page from the Brit's book. That's just what they did over there; first they took the pistols, then the rifles, then grandpa's shotgun. Then they felt safe. NOT. After they took all the guns and only the criminals had guns, crime went rampant. Thugs were roaming the streets and attacking anyone in broad daylight.

So, what do they do? Ban criminals? Nope. For some reason, they thought restricting the power of airguns would solve the crime problem. I guess Ralphie is safe. How much farther can they go? Last week saw how far as liberals convinced a group of doctors in the U.K. to call for the banning of all pointed kitchen knives. Why-because violent people were using them to kill people. All knives should be ground down to a dull-rounded point. The even got a group of chefs to say that there is no need for a point on a knife longer than three inches.
That will do it. Right? Sorry. Last week was the best ever. Now there is a strong push to ban all toy guns in the U.K. I guess someone used a toy gun to rob a lady or something. Boy, I hope nobody uses a soccer ball or cricket bat to kill someone over there. They won't have anything to watch on TV.

Open Letter

2005-06-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

An open letter to drivers that are now taking Main Street or Hamilton Street to North Street because of the closure of Knoxville:

I've been driving this particular route for about 5 years, not just because I-74 construction has closed every street near downtown Peoria. Here's how it goes. There has always been a stop sign for traffic coming from Main, to the intersection of Hamilton and North Streets. In all legality, drivers coming up the Hamilton hill, really didn't have to yield to the north bound traffic on North, coming from Main. This changed a few months ago when a new stop sign was added to the top of Hamilton Hill at North Street. The idea is that traffic southbound on North, turning down Hamilton, will have the right of way-then the car at Hamilton and then the car on North can proceed if no car is turning. What this does not mean is that the car behind, the car at the Hamilton stop sign gets to sneak in too. The car waiting on North, already has to worry about the oncoming cars turning-don't make them slam on their brakes because you really want to go.

One more thing: When I'm driving up the windy hill on Main to turn right onto North Street, my blinker won't work. My car thinks I'm turning so the blinker is locked. For all the people behind me that think I'm a total jerk for braking and turning abruptly, I'm sorry, it's all about the blinker.

CELEBRATE!!

2005-06-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

One of my dearest friends is finally divorced from a guy whose picture is in the dictionary under Shithead. Not that he would ever pick up a dictionary-but if it had his picture in it-maybe. Anyway, due to being an extremely hard-working, single mother of two, it's taken awhile for her to actually file the paperwork. Shithead has not seen the two boys since January and has all but disappeared from the scene. Child support? Right... King of getting paid under the table so nothing is reported...Taxes? Right...Hasn't filed a tax return in years. Clearly-very worried about the law, much less providing for a family. I just have to say congratulations dear friend..the worst is behind you...and you're free!!! No more ties to Shithead.

Cheers!!

Hell's Kitchen

2005-06-07T11:21:00.000-07:00

Well it's official. I'm sucked into summer programming on Fox. Hell's Kitchen is a pretty good show, especially if you've ever worked in a kitchen or dining room. Apparently, Gordon Ramsay is a huge chef in Europe and has opened several wildly successful restaurants. He doesn't take crap from anyone which is why I like him. I'm still not sure if the winner get's the restaurant, or becomes the head chef at the restaurant-that part wasn't too clear. So you have the contestants who all have varying degrees of expertise in the kitchen and they are divided into two teams. They compete in challenges but also have to work together to serve the restaurant. Each team has its own state-of-the-art kitchen which serves the tables that correspond to their team color (red and blue). On their very first day, they find out that the restaurant will be opening in 4 hours. They have until then to learn 4 appetizers, 4 main dishes and 4 desserts. Now, I'm assuming that patrons were aware of the reality show being filmed and its premise. We're talking about LA where everyone is vying for face time. Right? Also-most soft openings (since these are novice cooks, I assume it's a soft opening) don't charge the customers for anything except alcohol. There weren't any prices on the menus! If it takes 3 hours to get your food-stop complaining and for the love of God, don't complain to Gordon Ramsay. He hates you. "Really, it's been an hour and half since you ordered? Your friend is offended because I told her to f*** off? Please escort these ladies back to Plastic Surgery." So funny!!

So two days later, they try again. Since the blue team lost a squid cleaning challenge, they had to cook with no air conditioning. I think at one point it got to 140 degrees. Things seemed to be going well for both teams and then of course, you have your token gay-country boy meltdown. Then the food that is being turned out isn't good enough so they're all starting from scratch again. So all of this leads to a huge revolt by some prissy-ass patrons who've had to wait too long for their food. While most people would just leave and go someplace else-The Brainaic Table orders in pizza to go along with their wine and champagne. You can tell they're really proud of themselves because they're smirking and laughing and grubbing on the pizza. The maitre 'd comes to the table and lets them know they can't do that and then all hell breaks loose. The maitre 'd, Jean-Phillipe came over to let them know that it wasn't acceptable. Insulted-sloppy-dressed man stands up and gets in his face. Jean-Phillipe made a reference to his social education-which insulted sloppy-dressed man immediately took as a reference to his actual education. He started screaming about having a Doctorate in Music, getting in Jean-Phillipe's face, ranting about his education and the lowly maitre 'd's education. It eventually ended with the pizza-loving posse being kicked out for repeatedly jabbing Jean-Phillipe.

Rob says that a Doctorate in Music translate to: wealthy parents put me through school so I could listen to symphonies and operas and I've never worked a day in my life.

I say that Health Department 101 says: you can't serve prepared food from another establishment in an open establishment. I don't have a Doctorate in Music (obviously) but I did take that Health Department Class when I was 16-and passed.

Bartonville State Hospital

2005-06-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

Since I've been reading the book about George Zeller and his approach to mental health-I decided to take some pictures. The pictures in the book really show how grand of an area the place once was. Now it seems only a few original buildings remain.

2005-06-06T15:40:00.000-07:00

State Hospital 3

2005-06-06T15:39:00.001-07:00

State Hospital 2

2005-06-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

State Hospital 1

2005-06-06T15:38:00.001-07:00

State Hospital Cemetary 2

2005-06-06T15:38:00.000-07:00

State Hospital Cemetary 1

New Council Member?

2005-06-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

Reading various posts that people have written regarding the appointment of a new council member, I have a bit of a problem. Chase Ingersoll http://chaseingersoll.blogspot.com/ thinks that George Jacobs is a front runner and many feel that Pat Sullivan is also right out in front. A local restaurant/bar owner brought up a really good point. If Jacobs does get appointed, how will that effect local bars that buy alcohol from his distribution company? If it was a specific district appointment-only a few establishments would have to worry. Since this is an at-large position, everyone that holds a liquor license could potentially be effected. If for some reason a local owner didn't want to sell that particular brand of alcohol, could they be reprimanded in the future? I know it's out there-but you just never know. There could be an essence of impropriety.

2005-06-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about seeing a new doctor. Several people were telling me about one in particular they seemed to like. I called to make an appointment and they said I would have to switch her to my preferred provider on my insurance. That's an awfully large commitment for someone I have yet to meet. The insurance company told me that my options were to pay out-of-pocket for the visit or name the new doctor as my preferred provider. I told her that I had yet to meet the woman, how would I even know if I liked her? Exact response: "You can't just go around trying out doctors!" Well, screw you! I want to try out doctors. You enter into a relationship with your doctor. You have to trust him/her and they should trust you as well. Well, at least trust that you're not a junkie waiting in the Vicodin line. I'm not about to transfer all my medical records from the same physicians group that delivered me to someone I don't know. I really like my doctor-I just thought I may be ready for a female. And, the insurance specifically states that your annuals are covered. What if I want to go to this woman for the annual and "womenly issues" and leave the asthma and generic woes to the regular doc? I should be able to have 2 doctors. Heck, my doctor would probably be relieved. It would take some workload off him. They could even split the days of my hospital stays. I like that idea. I'm special, I get a team.
So, this whole debacle pissed me off so much that I cancelled my appointment with the new doctor. Can anyone ever win with health insurance companies? I'm listed on Rob's insurance as well, and at least they're half-way sane. I may have to have a $500 deductible, but when you have asthma, usually that's not a problem. I was so happy with my new insurance because my doc is covered. No more $500 before anything's covered. But it seems like my prescriptions are higher than ever. And, I have 2 prescription cards. Oh-and don't get me started on the ass-backward insurance rule that states that you're allowed one inhaler a month or you get charged the full price. Remember the movie "The Hand That Rocks The Cradle?" That chick had a psycho nanny tyring to take over her life and she had time to get a gazillion inhalers. She had them in every drawer of the house. Apparently she didn't have the Neo-Nazi health insurance policies I've been dealing with. I wonder if that's just a Walgreens issue? Since they're taking over the world, or at least Peoria, they probably have more fish to fry than screwing over asthma girl here. And, I'm probably going to hell for complaining about insurance when so many people would literally give their right arm for a policy but it's called Angie's Drama for a reason. And there's my drama for the day. (knock on wood)

The Ultimate Scavenger Hunt

2005-06-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

Big Props to Matt Ryan for organizing the best scavenger hunt...ever!!
For anyone not present, here were a few of the rules: teams of two, a 25-page booklet, a disposable camera, a crayon, paper and a baggy. All cameras were to be dropped off at a specific Walgreens by 5:30pm and teams ended up at Jubilee State Park. The park-not the college.

The booklet consisted of SEVERAL pages of local Peoria history. Most questions could only be answered by physically going to the location/landmark and reading the information. Most questions ranged from 5-25 points. Rob and I (bold and daring Amazing Race candidates that we are, not) opted for the 50 point question first. Let's just say it involved a soldier in the Civil War 77th IL Infantry, Springfield Cemetary and an epitaph. After 45 minutes we found it! "Asleep." And now we know.
Other sample questions.... How much does the bear at the Radisson Hotel weigh? What year were the lions in front of the zoo created? How many shuffleboard courts at Bradley Park? Approximately how old is the Great Burr Oak on High Street? And on and on...

There were also two full pages of items to acquire, a half page of business cards to obtain and 27 pictures to take. Some of the items included: roadkill, a slice of bacon from Pottstown Meat and Deli, 5 balls from McDonald's Playland, 2 Peoria postcards, a pink tasting spoon from Baskin and Robbins, a receipt from Ben Franklin and a Beamish coaster from Kelleher's. The pictures were the best! Many required all your participants in the picture. Have your picture taken in a water fountain, in the back of a police car, with the bear at the Radisson, with Jim Spears at Jimmy's Bar and depositing road kill in a dumpster at a Chinese restaurant.

I'm not mentioning any names (Kriss) but a few teams had some exta help. Can't wait until the next one!!!!!!

Peoria Pundit on Another Radio Station?

2005-06-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

Where's the loyalty, buddy? As I was driving along, I hit my breaks and all of a sudden my radio was on a non-work radio station. I hate when that happens. Darn the purse flying forward and hitting the seek button. Anyway, I heard Bill discussing blogging and he brought up some very good topics. Keep up the good work.

Bad Blogger! Bad Blogger!

2005-05-27T08:42:00.000-07:00

Mama Walker had the second bone marrow transplant yesterday and so far, so good. We're keeping our fingers crossed! Gary goes in for his shoulder surgery on Tuesday, hopefully that will be smooth as well.

Today is the Louie Louie Parade! Rob and I are chairing the project for the Jaycees so I'm hoping the rain will hold off. At least until mid-evening.

Tomorrow is the big scavenger hunt, also with the Jaycees. It starts out at Tower Park and ends at Jubilee State Park. Our buddy Mike, from Chicago, is coming down and will be joining us part way through. Being as he's never lived here, I sincerely doubt he will give us an edge. Comic relief-yes.

Sunday-we have no plans other than hanging out with Mike and Gretta.

Monday is the F.Scott's/Sullivan's Christmas Party! That's right. The third annual Christmas Party on Memorial Day. It's awesome! Like last year we'll be at Crusen's on Farmington Rd. Molly puts so much effort into the whole thing-including Christmas presents.

What Did Blago Say?

2005-05-17T11:52:00.000-07:00

http://www.sj-r.com/sections/news/stories/55910.asp
Can someone please tell me what the heck this means?
I read the entire article and have no idea.
He stood up to his father-in-law-I get that. But testicular virility? It makes more to say that phrase than it does to stand up for yourself.
Good grief...

One More Pet Peeve....

2005-05-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

Even though it seems that I have a million pet peeves, here's the biggie! I say this with sheer hypocrisy, because I've done it before and I know we all have. Although in my case, I've come from the tanning salon, with no make-up and see the high school prom queen who's probably a lawyer or fashion model in Miami. That's totally excusable. Say you're out and about and you glance over and see someone you recognize. Not in the, it could be so and so way, but in the yep, that sure is so and so way. So, you say, "Hi" and that person looks at you like you with an utterly blank stare or avoids the conversation all together and high tails it outta sight. I especially love when the person really makes you work at it. Hi, I'm Angie. I went to school with you. For 12 years. We hung out all the time. I was in your wedding. You named your daughter after me. Why is it people do this? I have no problem admitting that I forget names and sometimes it does take a minute to place where I've met people, but then it clicks and I'm not a moron anymore. I'm talking about the people you know who know exactly who you are and either avoid you or play dumb. Now, I know that I may not stand out in a crowd or be completely memorable to many people, but C'mon.
I especially love when I see former customers from the restaurant out and about. People I served 3-5 times a week for umpteen years have no clue who I am. I can tell you their precise order, however picky it may be. Yes, I'm talking to you Ms. extra, extra pasta-sauce on the side, bread warmed in the oven, salad on a plate-not a bowl, more oil than vinegar in the dressing, no salt in anything, tomatoes and onions sliced-not diced, bring your own vanilla flavoring for the soda and here's a cup of hot water to keep your hands warm and "Have you gained weight?" lady. You really have no clue who I am? That's infuriating.

Going Good...

2005-05-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Everything seems to be going well with Mama Walker. Her counts are down to zero, which means that the new chemo is working. They're testing her bone marrow on Tuesday, and if all is well, she'll have another bone marrow transplant the following week.

2005-05-11T15:22:00.000-07:00

Weston's First Birthday Present from Uncle Rob and Aunt Angie. What else would it be?

2005-05-11T15:21:00.000-07:00

Weston...The Cutest Nephew Ever

I Heart Billy Joe

2005-05-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

So, when I bought three tickets for Green Day, it was supposed to be for a Girls Night Out. Due to circumstances that I like to call predictability-one of the girls backed out last night. Thanks to the predictability of Annie, Rob had two dates for the concert. In all honesty...we arrived after the opening act was over. Never saw them and never heard them. People said they were pretty good though.
If it was ever a question, certain shoes should never be worn in the arena. Strappy sandals, however cute they may be, are not functional for climbing steep steps especially after one has a had a beer or two. Intense concentration is required so as to not fall flat on your face. When I was an usher, I can't tell you how many times I saw women fall down the stairs as they were going to their seats. Granted, they were usually at country concerts like Reba, Sawyer Brown and Tim McGraw when the special carts that served fruity drinks were out, but, I should know better.
We were a little shocked when we saw that the row in front of us was pretty empty except for a dad and his two sons who were like six and eight. Craazy. Maybe he didn't know that it wasn't exactly an all ages show. I loved when they brought the kids on stage and they played the riff. What a cool story to tell! "My Yug-i-Oh card is better than yours!" "Yeah, well, I got to jam with Green Day!"
It was a great concert and I managed to not fall, so, all in all- it was a good day!

Mama Walker Update

2005-05-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

The doctors are using a form of chemotherapy that is usually reserved for children with advanced cancers. Another adult was given the same regimen and he's doing rather well and recently had another bone marrow transplant. We're keeping our fingers crossed that this will work.

Apologies and Prayers

2005-05-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

I know...It's been a week since I posted.

Rob's mom is back in the hospital, up in Chicago. It looks like the initial bone marrow transplant has failed and the leukemia is back. They plan to treat it rather aggressively with two rounds of chemotherapy followed by a second bone marrow transplant.

Since we'll be in Chicago, no posts.

Tonight's the Night

2005-04-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Finally, Motley Crue is here. We bought our tickets in January. That seems like so long ago. Five months is a long time to wait for a concert. I know it'll be worth the wait though.

Hero

2005-04-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

Our buddy Rick www.rlo.com has made the big time!
His letter was printed in this week's TV Guide.
Now I finally have someone to say I knew him when...

2005-04-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

By the way.....1 more day till the Crue rocks Peoria! (insert metal head anthem here)

Speaking of which...I was listening to 99X yesterday and heard the Mick Mars sound bite of "99X, blah, blah, blah Rock on!" right into the opening strains of Ants Marching by The Dave Matthews Band. What is that? I love the song...but in no way, shape or form would I ever describe the song as rockin'. That's like saying, "We're gonna slow it down right now and groove to the mellow strains of Primus."

Restaurant Reviews

2005-04-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

We (Rob and I) were reading the restaurant review for Red Zin, in the River City Times last week. I think the author wrote a good review, I just disagree with her ratings. First, let me specify that I have not been to Red Zin yet. I have no preconceived notions at all. But, I have worked for the owner, Dave Rizvani and I understand his expectations.

The restaurant reviewer starts off by saying that right off the bat, they knew they wanted the sauteed shrimp for an appetizer. They told the server, who also brought them drinks. They ordered...she loved the salads...their meals were great...the server never brought the appetizer but instead, offered them free dessert since he forgot to put the order in.

She gave atmosphere, food and service the highest marks possible. I'm sorry, but if the server forgot to put your appetizer in, that's not 5 star worthy. You could be the nicest and most charming server in the world, but you made a mistake. That's not exceptional service-any way you look at it. We've all done it and it sucks. Usually, you're just praying that the mistake won't reflect too much on your tip and not on a restaurant review.

2005-04-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

Two More Days till the Crue hits Peoria!

2005-04-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

You Shake It All About..Only Rob and Jennifer know what was going on...at the Jaycees Beerfest Appreciation Party.

Feeling Guilty

2005-04-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling guilty because I don't have many pictures of the Labradabberdoos.
The clarity sucks since I was in the driveway. If I would have gotten closer, there's no way I could have gotten them to stand still. Just to clarify...we do spend quite a bit of time with them. We play outside with them everyday and yesterday, even though I was cleaning, they were in the house all day. Sophie and Vito may be the most spoiled dogs, but the Labradabberdoos are a close second. I would have no problem being reincarnated as one of our pups!

2005-04-25T16:14:00.000-07:00

Biggest to Littlest

I found this quiz...

2005-04-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

http://www.blogthings.com/amenglishdialecttest/

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?
Your Linguistic Profile:
75% General American English
10% Dixie
10% Yankee
5% Midwestern
0% Upper Midwestern

I'm going to say that the Dixie thing comes from the fact that I do say y'all sometimes. And don't make fun...I'm usually trying to say you all, as in-What would you all like to do tonight? Nothing like...Hey y'all.

So, to all the snobby Chicago suburb types that think Central Illinois is full of redneck hicks...take that!

Peoria Height's Own Hatfields and McCoys

2005-04-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

My very best friend in the world, Colleen, and her family (brother and mother) have been dealing with an absolute insane neighbor woman for nearly 20 years. Crazy, Insane Neighbor X has lived next door to the property since the grandparents lived there. When Colleen and I became friends (nearly 15 years ago) I got my first taste of Crazy, Insane Neighbor X. She would call the Heights Police for the slightest thing. When they had Dutchess (sweetest puppy dog, RIP) they would get ticketed regularly, compliments of Crazy, Insane Neighbor X.

Fast forward to the present with John and Dan living there. For all the improvements they've made to the house and landscaping they don't deserve her crap at all. If I'm correct, they've lived there almost three years and have had the police called on them 100 times. Only getting two tickets (for noise). That seems a tad bit excessive, doesn't it?

Crazy, Insane Neighbor X has intensified her stakeout. She now has NO TRESPASSING signs and even a security camera to monitor her property. (insert random mumblings about aliens and conspiracy theories here) I'm sure she has a shelter in her basement with enough food, water and Robert Heinlein books to survive the millennium, as well. Well, John CROSSED THE LINE last week. She had him arrested on criminal tresspassing charges. It seems that John and his buddies were playing soccer with his girlfriend's 10-year old in the backyard. The ball went into Crazy Insane Neighbor X's yard. John ran over, got the ball and continued playing. So of course, she has a tape of John retrieving the ball on her property. I'm guessing if the 10-year old had gotten the ball, she'd be sitting in Juvie Hall right now.

Would this qualify as harassment?

Election Sign Etiquette

2005-04-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

I happened to stop by Mr. G's on Main Street this afternoon. Looking across the road at the nearly abandoned building were several campaign signs for Marcella Teplitz. Note to the owners of said building: THE ELECTION IS OVER. SHE LOST. TAKE DOWN THE SIGNS. There really needs to be some sort of etiquette class or sign training. You take down campaign materials when the election is over. New rule: No one gets a sign unless they promise to take down the sign within a week or two of the election. Two weeks is enough time to allow for a recount, celebration or mourning, and plain laziness. After that, the hangover haze should be gone and life resumes.

Shoot Em Up

2005-04-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, Rob and our friend Johnny had plans to go to the gun range. I planned on cleaning up the house and playing with the puppies. Rob stopped home after work and asked if I wanted to come along. Why the heck not? Johnnny just got a gun and wanted to go shoot. If I can not feel like an ass when I shoot with Rob, I have nothing to worry about. Rob is extremely humble, yet everyone else will tell you how great of a marksman he is.

So, we went out to the "range" (insert redneck hillbilly joke here) near Spring Bay. We had it all to ourselves. We had a blast! By the end of the day, Johnny was shooting his rifle at 130 yards and hitting targets. That's pretty difficult when there isn't a scope. I have issues shooting a 22 pistol at a target 50 yards in front of me because my eyesight sucks.

One of the guns Rob brought was the AR-15. I must admit, it's a beautiful gun (and I never in my life imagined I would say those words). It's a very fun gun to shoot. Personally, I have a difficult time looking into a scope. Anyone that knows me, can attest to the fact that I cannot wink. Rob's solution: Plastic goggles with the left eye blackened. But, I had a blast and did well in the accuracy department. Rob was proud! Of course, I think he was prouder that I had gun powder on my face. Nothing says I love you like sitting on a gun case, because you're too short to see into the scope, wearing a pair of safety goggles with one eye blacked out because you can't close an eye independently of another and sporting the circa 1981 headphones that weigh two tons.

What Do My License Plates Say?

2005-04-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

They say PRTHD 22. That would be for Parrothead. Not Parenthood. Not Party Head. Not Apartheid. You would think the metallic shark, the "What if the hokey pokey is what it's all about" bumper sticker, the "It's a Buffett thing...You Wouldn't Understand" bumper sticker, the lei and hula girl hanging from my mirror would be a clue. Not so. Creepy old guy in the parking deck today said "Are you one of them feminists at Planned Parenthood?" WTF????? I swear it only happens to me.

It looks like, for the first time in years, I won't be getting tickets to see Jimmy Buffett. While the thought of him playing at Wrigley Field is very exciting, the price of the tickets are not. Ninety dollars and one hundred thirty dollars. For an outdoor concert.

Every year, he plays two shows at Deer Creek (Indiana), at least one show at Alpine Valley (Wisconsin) and two shows at the Tweeter Center (Tinley Park). This year, it's one show at Deer Creek (which sold out in 5 minutes) and two shows at Wrigley Field. The seating for Wrigley is about 39,000 per show-which will sell out immediately. What bothers me the most is the majority of people that will be able to get tickets have probably never seen him live before. They're just getting the tickets because it's the cool thing to do. The true Parrotheads who have never missed a summer will be on their own.

Rob is trying to placate me. He thinks we should go up to Indiana, tailgate, and buy tickets in the parking lot. That seems way too willy nilly for me. Go to a concert and hope to get tickets? Drive to Indiana without tickets in my hand? Tailgate and relax in a parking lot without tickets? Organize an outing I have no control over? I'm sure it will all work out. Even if I have to consume mass quantities of anti-anxiety medication. And booze. If Rob can be carefree, I should be able to chill the hell out and go with the flow. And I'm sure anyone that knows me is rolling around the floor at that one.

Watch Out...I Figured It Out...

2005-04-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

My apologies to everyone.
Now that I've figured out how to put photos on my blog you'll probably be barraged with Walker Pack pictures. I have to show off my babies!

2005-04-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Sophie was a little bummed that Illinois lost.

2005-04-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Vito typically ignoring Sophie

2005-04-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

The reason Sophie doesn't have access to the kitchen

2005-04-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

Vito aka "Chunky Monkey"

2005-04-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

Princess Sophie

And I'm Back

2005-04-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

Due to some screwed up issues, I didn't go to Kentucky with Rob last week. Instead, I did some spring cleaning which, considering the size of our house and the fact we have a small kennel club, was not as easy or fun of a week as I had imagined.

I ran to Kroger's last night to get some dog food. I was in and out, grabbing a copy of the River City Times even, in just a few minutes (Kroger between 5 and 6 is usually a nightmare). That's where the good karma broke. I was in the car, gear in reverse and looking behind me when I realized I was being blocked in by the grocery cart train. Are you freakin' kidding me? The cart boy was all of fifteen and 98 lbs. He was having some issues with the carts. Can't you see I'm ready to leave? Please move faster. Not only was he huffing and puffing, he looked like he had just taken a master's level trigonometry pop quiz. Please, just move the cart train away from my car so I can leave. Hungry puppy dogs are waiting for me. Please see my brake lights and move the freaking cart train. Doesn't he see me? Realizing that boy wonder would not get the task done anytime soon, I delved into the River City Times. And finished the entire thing. Word for word.
Time Spent in Kroger: 5 minutes
Time Spent Waiting for Grocery Cart Train: 20 minutes
Time Boy Wonder Spent in Grocery Cart Train School: 9 months
Realizing I Never Win: Priceless

Random Thoughts About...

2005-04-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited that Jim won the election. I have to admit that I was pretty nervous all day Tuesday. As he said in his acceptance speech, it's just the beginning...
Did anyone notice the craptastik interview with Ransburg after the results were announced?
"The problem is, I'm more of a doer than a politician. So, maybe we'll let the political pundits figure out what it was. And if they had told us sooner, maybe we would've done better."
Could the guy be more of a jack? Maybe he should have listened to his naysayers all along, rather than be dismissive of anything the least bit critical. Maybe he should have included more of his council in all of the "visions." Maybe he could have stopped the closed meetings. But lets be realistic. Does anyone believe he would have listened to anyone? And that's the reason we have a new leader for Peoria.

I absolutely love the new A1 Steak Sauce commercial. The camera pans to a table of two in a restaurant. The couple is obviously fighting. The wife is doing the low voice with the clenched teeth, "Stop eating. Listen to Me." The guy gets up from the table and a man sits down in his place and asks, "Has someone been eating my steak?" One of the best commercials ever!

The West Wing last night was awesome. I haven't watched the show since early in the season. What a twist. I'm once again hooked. Leo as the vice president nominee? How great is that? We also watched the Amazing Race last night which was a recap of the season so far. Rob was so excited to see everyone driving in Africa with their windshield wipers going as they were trying to change lanes. Driving in Jamaica, our windshield wipers were always on. Talk about feeling stupid. Kinda along the lines of, "Look kids...Parliament...Big Ben"

Not quite Spring Break

2005-04-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

Since Rob and I will be out of town there won't be any new posts until we return. We're going down to Knob Creek, KY for the gun show. That's not a missprint. Unlike the show in Las Vegas, it's more of a gun range thing than a trade show. Yogi's coming with us so at least I'll have the choc-o-late with me. I swear the line between redneck and white trash keeps getting thinner. True to Angie form, there will be no camouflage or boots. Please-a girl has to keep her style-however uncomfortable or inappropriate it may be.