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A rainy night indeed.

Who knew that a Friday night in downtown Minneapolis in late January would require an umbrella? Waiting for the train at the Warehouse District platform was simply surreal! What city is this? Who are these folks with umbrellas? Why do I need my rain boots?

The weather is unusual from coast to coast.

We attended the Timberwolves game at the Target Center. It had been quite some time since we'd been to a game and it was enjoyable. Pat enjoyed giving me a little basketball history lesson and pointing out things of interest. The stop at our favorite bar, Glueks, was good, although the presentation of a "happy hour" menu was confusing. The bartender placed a plastic stand containing the menu with the beers, drinks, and appetizers listed and available for happy hour. We chose and then were told there is no "happy hour" pricing because of the event (i.e; Timberwolves game). Well, why present the menu? Didn't change our order and heard him telling the same story to the patrons beside me.

Quote of the day from coach Phil Jackson;

" Winning is important to me, but what brings me real joy is the experience of being fully engaged in whatever I'm doing."

Take care.

permafrost

The ice that surrounds me outdoors on the sidewalks, bridge, steps, patio and greenway is shrinking! When the sun shines on these "mild" days of January the ice slowly recedes much like a glacier. It's odd comparing ones environment to frozen tundra. Again, I'm enjoying the Sorrels.

Don't get bitter, get better. I'm sure you've heard the phrase before. Why stop there? I say get batter! There's a cake batter in my near future, baking a birthday cake for someone special. Tonight there is a little celebration for Lisa, while further out west my good friend David turns my age. We get to be the same age for a few weeks! HBD!

Quote of the day from Madeleine L'Engle;

"The great thing about getting older is that you don't lose all the other ages you've been."

take care

pinot grigio

Bar La Grassa, a fairly new establishment on Washington Ave, was on my radar to visit. It was featured as one of the best places for food and drink in Minneapolis a few weeks ago. Who knew that last evening--a cold Wednesday---would find me 10 deep waiting to speak to the host? Does buzz from a Star Tribune article last for weeks?

What am I missing in the night scene here in Minneapolis? Is 8PM midweek a popular time to dine out? I'm confused.

Also concerned about how difficult it was to park and scale the ice cliff of snow to get on the partly icy-slick sidewalk. I'm dumbfounded about how there is not a quality sit down restaurant in our Global Market. Our experience at Ala Salsa on NYE was mediocre at best. The parking and comfort of this building offers so much to diners--and you would think owners as well. There is gossip that the restaurant Jade, which occupies a large part of the Global Market, will close soon. I long for a great dining spot to take over that space.

We discovered through an acquaintance that our good friend Tony, the sushi chef, has found a home at Fuji-Ya. That is where we first learned about sushi and how to order and eat it! Best of luck to him and we will certainly become regulars at Fuji-Ya again!

Quotes from "One Second Sermons";

"Kind words make good echoes"

"Life is a measure to be filled, not a cup to be drained"

"If you can't see the bright side, polish the dull side"

take care!

part of the season

This part of the winter season is unpleasant.

I'm frozen with anxiety about dealing with the sub-zero temps everyday.

It's just not fun.

I acquired some really nice "Sorrel" snow boots over the holiday season which keep my feet warm. The long underwear from Target is indispensable. My old coat from Land's End remains my absolute favorite, and the warm woolens from Norway keep me Goldilocks warm---not too hot, not too cold!

So why am I unhappy?

Maybe it's the ice buildup on the streets and sidewalks that makes the simple task of walking an Olympic event. Or an ode to growing up on ice skates like Lisa who credits her good balance to ice skating everyday after school. The ice presents a challenge nearly everywhere.

Then there's the temperature.

My face gets so cold and the raw air truly burns my cheeks. The dog still enjoys the snow, but she slips on the sidewalk as well! I haven't fallen yet--knock on wood-- and hope to remain upright for the duration.

My attitude does not reflect my hopes and dreams for the coming year. I am very optimistic for a fantastic 2010!

Really I am, but I can't take much more of this ice and cold temps!

Quote of the day from Jennifer James;

"If you could choose one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor."


take care--ha ha!

piroette

I really need some pointers from Peggy Fleming, a childhood hero of mine (guess why).

Lacing up borrowed, too large skates was my first mistake.

The Xcel Center in St.Paul was the location for an event for one of Patrick's customers, Imaging Path. They generously held their employee Christmas party in this arena. The food and drink were fantastic and the "Fishing Lodge" on the lower level was charming. The largeness of the arena and the smallness of the party was equaling as quaint.

I had a good attitude going onto the ice. It was extremely smooth and the skates felt like they were gliding easily on the slick surface. The issue was with how my feet could move within the skate and the high ill-fitting ankle did not allow for any "balance." So as I attempted to glide I bit, my feet moved, my ankles were static and I fell right on my butt.

Much hub-bub occurred and the paramedics were watching, but all that was hurt was my feelings. I tried to right myself and shake it off while Patrick and others hovered and finally I convinced them I was fine to take a few laps. We did a couple times around the rink, took a few pictures and called it a night. It was fun and I do want to try it again, with skates that fit.

Quote from Dale Carnegie;

"One of the tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horison--instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.

Okay then, carry on!

poo-poo puppy

I thought it was time to post a photo of the reason I venture into the outdoors from my safe, warm loft. Meet my youngest daughter Aly's dog, Mattie. I like to call her Matilda, poo-poo head, Dorgasaurus, Matilda Lou Mackinthun, would you please shut-up? and stop it!

It's an interesting life, living here in the building with a dog. Since moving to an urban area, I've found I need more outdoor weather gear than when we lived in the 'burbs. Especially since I need to walk through a public area into the outdoors which can be brutally cold! (see any weather map)

This has led to a love affair with Land's End. It's my new happy vice. The tee-shirts alone are worth a visit to the store, or web site. I am not a huge online or catalog shopper

because I need to feel the fabric and compare the colors and

pair up some accessories or match with other garments, then check the sale rack and then look at the coats! oh the coats-jackets-vests and parkas!

And don't get me started on the swimwear!!!

Graciously the weather has cooperated with my love for outdoor gear. Maybe the after Christmas sales will reveal a new "cold" outdoor uniform for me.

Quote of the day from Sarah Ban Breathnach;

" Learning to live in the present moment is part of the path of joy."

take care!

parties and powder

The parties over the weekend were terrific!

Too many funny quips and jokes were shared and LOTS of building gossip exchanged! A couple of great outfits were displayed including some sparkle and glitter, as well as fashionable boots recently purchased in Russia!

I owe a big favor to Johanna who really helped me with the last minute food preparations. She worked for at least 2 hours just putting together the vegetable appetizers and salad. Then spent much time at the party arranging, filling and cleaning up.. Thank you so very much Hannie!

The powder falling from the sky put a damper on the airport run and shopping plans of Mom and Dad. After a short conversation about the snow that was forecast, M&D decided to go south and get themselves settled before they became snowed in here in Minneapolis.. Now on the 6:00 news there has been a warning to stay put, no travel is recommended. Ya can't win for tryin'. They are just fine, Janet gave them a big ol' Tahoe to drive.

The freshly fallen powdery snow was just like glitter on the Greenway. We were walking through inches of white and silver flaky glitter. It was one of those moments of beauty where the cold disappears and the only thing you're aware of is the beauty of the season. I took the dog out when I got home from the drive north, and she loved it. It is so funny to see her rub her face and body in the snow. I have a happy dog.

Quote of the day from John Wooden;

" Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."

Take care.