Liz in Life ... Law School Style

Things to Check After an Earthquake

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:12:00 +0000

1. Twitter, to confirm it was an earthquake.
1.5. Every other social media site, to again confirm it was an earthquake.
2. MARC, VRE, and WMATA, to confirm that there is no way in Hell you're getting home because the DC transportation system falls apart when it's slightly windy, so a 5.9 earthquake surely spells commuter doom.
3. Your cats, via your boyfriend
4. Your wine cellar, which said boyfriend knows to check before you get home in case he needs to brace you for some horrible, tragic news of loss.
5. Your rum stash, since a hurricane's a-comin' (hurriquake = God is smiting DC. I don't really blame Him).
6. Probably your gas lines and your chimney, which I didn't really do, I figured the carbon monoxide detector would let me know if there's a problem with the first part of that. God, why am I so tired? I think I'll just curl up and let that beeping noise guide me to sleep.

Three Vineyards Proving You Wrong About Virginia Wine

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 18:43:00 +0000

First, I just got back from a long vacation at Chincoteague Island, VA. Please excuse my brain as it struggles to return to normal and having deeper thoughts than "This wave is mine. MINE!" and "Mmm, hello, oyster." My brain's resistance might be rooted in the fact that 2L year begins in ten days, and so I'm officially slipping back into law school mode. This means I need to write about something to make me happy, keep me centered. Something like, well, wine.

Early this summer, Nick's Dad (Mike) kindly came from Connecticut to help us move into the house. Mike proved to be the MVP of the move- saving the dolly, driving trucks, and chasing squatters out of the basement. Since Mike surrendered his Father's Day weekend in an act of paternal love to move his firstborn's many many boxes in the sweltering Virginia heat, Nick decided to take his dad out to Loudoun's vineyards as a thank you and Father's Day present. My dad, who also loves Mike for saving him from doing manual labor, decided to grill for us at the family homestead (also in Loudoun). Since I've been meaning to share more about Virginia's excellent wine scene- especially in Loudoun County's vineyards- I decided to share with you my thoughts on three of Loudoun's best vineyards.

First, we went to Breaux, a longtime favorite of mine. Breaux's wines are versatile, and the vineyard's reputation as a heavyweight in the Virginia wine scene is well-deserved. When Governor McDonnell went to France, one of the wines he brought was a Breaux wine. Driving up to the Mediterranean style villa, one can't be impressed with the stunning view of the Blue Ridge mountains and gentle slopes of green vines contrasting with the white stone of the gate. Breaux's Cajun charm- stemming from it's owner's Louisiana roots- makes the scene warm, not austere, and very hospitable to fans like myself and the novices.
We tasted 11 wines, Mike tasting for free on Father's Day. The 2008 Barrel Select Chardonnay's ($22.00) slightly oaky, vanilla and white pepper tastes seduced both Nick and I (note: we aren't white drinkers). The long finish and full-body coated my tongue, but the wine was not overoaked at all- something often done with Chardonnays and ruins the subtle tones of the wine. The 2006 Meritage's ($28.00) chocolate nose and strong but short finish has nice tannins- we took a bottle home. I almost splurged my entire budget on the 2006 Nebbiolo ($38.00), which is ungodly good- a tobacco and violet wine, big red- all I could want. I also loved the 2010 Cabernet Rose ($19.00) as an easy drinking and sweeter rose, and brought the sweet white Chere Marie ($15.00) home with me because of the rose water, strawberry and pineapple tastes. Drinking it made me want spicy fish and clams, and it was one of those wines that flourishes in stainless steel without getting the metallic tang many wines pick up. Mike, looking to bring wines home to a white-only drinker and bring her to the red side, picked up the Cabernet Rose- excellent for red drinkers looking for a summer wine, or for converting white drinkers.
One wine Breaux did not taste unless you requested- but I have in my basement- is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($24.00!!! a steal!) that won many awards. Tasting it in January with my friend Christina blew me away, and I told my pourer that this Cab Sav beat some of the Napa ones I'd tasted while out there. It's an excellent wine, and if they have some tastes left- have some. Buy the bottle. Then mess with your friends as they think they're drinking a Napa Cab Sav and watch their minds explode when you say, "Nope, Virginia."

Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville

www.breauxvineyards.com

Tasting- $10.00

Good for white and red fans, big groups, views

Next, we idled down the road to another stellar Loudoun vineyard, Hillsborough Vineyards. This is Nick's favorite vineyard, a great vineyard for reds (not much for white drinkers, sorry). The log cabin overlooking the hills and dairy farms in Hillsboro, a tiny village outside Purcellville offers bucolic scenery and allows one to pretend that Western Loudoun hasn't seen a flood of developers and McMansions in the last ten years. Hillsborough now tastes in the lodge area of the cabin, which feels like a restored barn and gives a country chic to the tasting. However, there's a bit of noise from voices echoing off the wood, so be prepared. Especially if you encounter a family with younger children. Like we did. This was when I told Mike that he wasn't getting grandkids from Nick and I. Luckily, our pourer was really nice and made sure to speak up.
Nick loved the 2008 Carnelian ($22.00) white wine, which tasted like vanilla bean ice cream to him. I got keffir lime, which goes to show how the same wine can taste totally different to two people. We both loved the 2007 Bloodstone ($28.00), which hit the back of my tongue with smoky clove and vanilla, reminding me a bit of the Djarum Blacks I smoked in college. We ended up drinking a bottle on the patio with a baguette and salami, soaking in the views and Mike ridiculing my Baltimore shanking knife. The 2007 Onyx ($32.00) came home with both Mike and I, a big red with a "great nose!!!" (according to my notes). I loved the taste of anise and black fig that I got from it, which made me want lamb chops. Mmm, lamb chops. Finally, the 2009 Serefina is the perfect summer rose at $21- an apple-y, dry rose that made me dream of Provence. Perfect for patio sipping.

Hillsborough Vineyards, 36716 Charles Town Pike, Purcellville

www.hillsboroughwine.com

Tasting- $8.00

Good for red fans, views, smaller groups

Finally, heading towards Dad's and our stomachs starting to call for steak, we drove down Route 9 to Route 287 to visit Sunset Hills Vineyard- a bit of a newcomer to the area. For a long time, I didn't know much about this vineyard, housed in a converted barn and using Amish-made oak barrels for their wine. After finally trying it with Christina in January- and loving their now-discontinued Albemarle Rose- I knew Nick needed to try it. Since Nick's dad was still willing to be "dragged" to one more vineyard, we slipped in right before closing. Our pourer didn't mind, even though he was alone and there were two other families appearing at the same time (wine tasting brings families together, people. Remember that. Also, cheaper than therapy, and teenagers = DD!). They have these neat little glass hand-blown decanter thingys on their bottles which I really want, alas, handmade means expensive.
Anyways, the wines. Would Sunset Hills disappoint my two red tasters? Not at all. Sunset Hills has the smallest selection with 6 wines, but it appears the winemaker concentrates on wines that he's tweaked to perfection. All of the wines were great, none of them earning a bad comment in my notes- I just couldn't pick a favorite! The clean, light and crisp 2009 Sunset White ($22) is exactly the wine I usually hate for tasting too metallic, too sharp- but this nursed my tiring palate back to health and surprised me. The 2010 Sunset Rose (also $22) reminded me of prosecco without the bubbles mixed with strawberries. I actually loved the 2009 Merlot ($22), which I usually find too jammy or acidic. Sunset Hills' Merlot instead has warm raspberry and vanilla tones on the finish, a lovely surprise.
As bits of rain began to splatter outside, we stayed safe and warm in the barn and its large selection of food and dining areas. A perfect end to our tasting trail, and the ideal place for a couple to hole up on and munch while drinking. Our pourer never shooed us out or hurried us along, kindly taking the time to talk to our trio- especially me, the wannabe wine snob. His good cheer and laid back manner really helped make our time especially nice, and had no problem explaining things about different wines to Mike, Nick, and I. He also took the time to explain how Sunset Hills concentrates on sustainable farming, something which I fully support. A perfect end to our tasting trail.

Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville

www.sunsethillsvineyard.com

Tasting- $7.00

Good for couples, small groups, cold and rainy days, organic

We finally emerged from the barn once the splats of raindrops stopped, and made our way to Dad's with wine and beer. While I can't offer you my father and brother's grillmaster skills- or the ending of playing with Loki, our family dog- I can tell you that Sunset Hills, Breaux, and Hillsborough are three vineyards showing the world that Virginia can and does make damn good wines of all kinds.

First picture: Hillsborough. Second picture: Loki. All pictures taken by and belong to me- please contact me at Liz (at) lizinlife (dot) com for questions about usage, etc. I did not receive anything in return for my reviews, or any freebies, etc.

A Suburban Horror Story

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:06:00 +0000

I’ve been staring incessantly at my phone for the last few days, begging it to light up with an unknown number. It seems strange to many that I would want this, but those also waiting for Law journals to make a decision that appears to involve intense negotiations which could unhinge the universe understand.

Yes, friends, law school even owns your soul in summer.

In other news, I’ve been distracting myself by turning the house into a home for Nick and I, which leads me to my story of bloodshed and pain. Or itchiness, whatever. Buying a house means we now have walls to paint, furniture to buy (and assemble), and a yard. Currently, our summer has had an average temperature far past boiling point and the humidity levels surpassed “sauna” and are now at “Venus”. This means half my plants are dying, my herbs are cursing at me, and the weeds are frolicking with joy. Last night, enjoying a cool day of 90 degrees with only 80% humidity, I decided to use the waning evening hours to start tending to said weeds. I stepped out the front door, for a moment charmed by the sounds of children and faint twinkling of lightning bugs.

And then I heard the dreaded high pitched whine of a mosquito and two pinches, one on my arm, one on my leg. I realized that my blood had not been soured to the taste of these flying Typhoid Marys by spicy food and wine, and I still served as a Happy Meal with legs to them.

I retreated inside, sprayed myself down with OFF, and ventured out. However, within five minutes, another whine and pinch on the other arm made me think I needed more OFF. Back in I went, precious daytime light rapidly vanishing, along with my patience. The process repeated itself two more times until I gave into my frustration and doused myself in so much OFF that my arms glistened like an oiled-up wrestler ready to get down and grab hold of an opponent.

It didn’t even take a minute for a mosquito to land on an arm still soaking with OFF and take a bite. I screamed some obscenities, teaching the neighborhood kids fun new ways to drop the F-bomb and combine crude words for female body parts with breakfast food, and slapped the little bastard of itchy doom into a blood and wing smeared pancake. I then retreated inside to shower, deciding that all the OFF was doing was probably upping my chances of cancer and ceding the yard to the bugs. Later that night, I googled to see if DDT was still an option (it’s not) and asked Dad his advice (“A cigar, it keeps all sorts of pests away, including hippies.”).

On the upside, however, I still seem to be resistant to poison ivy, which I might have accidentally smacked on my leg after being bitten by a mosquito.

If anyone has any mosquito-repelling advice, I am begging and pleading for help (I’ll also take tips on killing outdoor ants). Please, my garden needs weeding without me needing quinine and potentially using enough DEET to cause the EPA to declare my yard a Superfund site. Also, remember when you move into a house, you get a yard, and Mother Nature is not as awesome as you remember.

A Virginia Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:38:00 +0000

Despite the pink and gray streaked sky signaling dusk's arrival, it's still so hot that my clothes instantly stick to my skin the moment my feet leave the cool air conditioning of St. Elmo's. The Southern heat and humidity, hallmarks of any Virginia summer, came early this year and made its intention to cook us into submission clear. My pina colada smoothie is no match for the 90 degree evening, already softening from crystallized chunks to mush.

I'm walking around, killing time, letting the heat convince my usually quick and pointed steps to slow, soften. I rarely walk around here just to walk- usually there's a reason driving me, and I'm so focused on my mission I fail to notice my surroundings.

The kitschy shop on the corner with vintage metal garden benches, peeling reds and greens slowly curling back from the metal. A lone outcast, seeking silence and solitude from St. Elmo's hubbub, sits with a coffee and a book. He nods, then returns to whatever adventure he's partaking through the written word.

I walk past an old Baptist church, one I walk past often. The doors have red panels, I realize- have they always? Did I just realize this? How long has it been like that? They look freshly painted, I tell myself- but wait- since when were the windowpanes teal and purple? How did I miss that?

It disturbs me, sometimes, how someone who lived, as a child, in her dream world, could miss so many of these things. I used to always notice the minute details, imagine the stories of the gingerbread Victorians in my hometown. Now, I've become one of those people, so caught up in the task list, the smartphone, the must-do-now and should've-done-earlier.

Growing up, a summer night like this meant pina colada Slurpees and catching fireflies, running through the neighborhood with flashlights- "Got you! My turn, my turn!"- and staying out until our parents called us in with truly exasperated tones- "Elizabeth, now".

Perhaps that's why I chose the tropical coconut and pineapple flavored smoothie, I mused, staring at the church. Maybe the suffocating steam in the air, the incoming summer storm, all these things triggered the memory of summers past in my unconscious, the slow walks home from 7-11, sipping my way as crystallized ice shards melted into sugar water, imagining the stories of old houses. Deep inside, there's still a little girl in a dreamy world, beckoning me to return again.

Caffeinated Foodie Review(ish): Telegraph Station

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 13:58:00 +0000

Moving to SoAlx/Huntington meant I had to give up many of the mainstays of my beloved Del Ray neighborhood. No more funky coffeeshops or bistros, I knew that I was wandering into Fourbucks territory. The bar selection seemed limited.

But SoAlx anticipated my arrival, it appears, with the opening of Telegraph Station, an awesome little coffeeshop, cafe and bar playing laid back, beachy tunes and serving up some kick ass coffees.

First, their coffee is good. And they have almond milk. They foam their almond milk well- really well, which is impressive. The lattes and chai are blended well, never too heavy. They have freshly squeezed orange juice- made right there while you wait. Same with their smoothies- always freshly made, order by order.

Second, they have a kick ass bar. They have bottles of PBR for the cheap hipster in all of us, but why drink that when you look at what's on tap? They have Kona Longboard which is one of my favorite freaking beers ever. They also have the esteemed local brew Port City, a kick ass Alexandria craft beer. Oh, and Kelly's Irish Cider. Mmm, yes. Good beer. Did I mention they have bluegrass every week? No? Well, they do. Bonus points!

I've eaten their frittatas here, but it looks like all the food is fresh, local, and pretty affordable. The frittatas was perfect for my hangover this morning, complete with a side of Texas Pete. Nom.

The atmosphere, in case you couldn't tell, is pretty laid back too. It's a neighborhood joint through and through. Mommy groups meet here midday during the week, and there's a crowd of people like me drifting in and out for coffee and wifi during the day. It's an overall chill spot that could easily become the St. Elmo's Pub of SoAlx (don't worry, St. Elmo's, I'll still come visit). To be honest, I was scared I'd lose this vibe moving here. Telegraph Station has renewed my hope and won a spot in my heart. Hell, I love it so much I'm blogging from here.

In short, I tell my new neighbors joining me in the infiltration of SoAlx to support your local coffeeshop and bar- and join me at Telegraph Station. The brew, the atmosphere, the coffee- it's all good here.

Telegraph Station
5735 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
www.telegraphstation.com

Crafting block?

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:20:00 +0000

I think I have a crafting block (get it? Like writer's block? I'm so witty).

This picture is from Ikea. It's served me well, but it's a little blah. Especially for our basement rec room. I need something with color... but what?

Here's where I beg for your help, my super creative readers. Help me refashion this. You're my only hope.

Fyi, the glass itself is frosted to give that three matted frame look. I have no problem removing the glass.

Chirp

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 17:08:00 +0000

So, sorry about the lack of posting. Apparently, FiOS is a popular lady and cannot come visit us for another week, meaning I have been TV and Internet-less. It's like the 1920's, people. I'm alive, but I keep trying to hashtag my conversations.

What, I'm not addicted?

But we're settling in. We bought a new mattress, which makes me so unbelievably happy to no longer be sleeping on the Sheet Rock of Doom that we slept on before. We're getting used to the weirdness of having a backyard, painting options, etc.

And, I'm getting used to one of the perils of homeownership. Modern Family fans will like this one.

We have a chirper.

One of the two smoke detectors, conveniently located right next to each other, started chirping last night. One of them. I cannot, for the life of me, decide which one it is. And I refuse to just do the logical thing and get on a ladder, take one down, see if that's it, ta da. Because I should be able to hear it. I am a law student, dammit. A 2L. I should not have to trial and error this thing. I will not let my house win a battle this early.

Also, because this will inevitably end up happening if I don't learn to track it down with my keen hearing alone.

Houses conspire against you, people. Be aware and be ready.

Technical(ly awesome) Difficulties...

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 02:40:00 +0000

Hi. Been awhile. You still here?

That's awesome. So'm I. And I keep writing imaginary, awesome posts in my head. But they're not on paper yet, cause some things have happened in Liz Land.

No, I'm not engaged. My domestic partnership with Nick stands strong in our non-legally binding bliss. In such bliss, actually, that in between me passing 1L year and becoming a 2L, starting two new jobs, and becoming a Veep for Outlaw...

Nick bought a house. A real live, actual house. Where we can paint our own walls, have a little veggie garden, and NEVER SHARE A WALL WITH NEIGHBORS AGAIN.

Though I have enjoyed my secret weapon of bagpipes as of late.

Anyways, buying a house is stressful and time-consuming, and I've been packing, packing, packing whenever I am home. Well, packing and purging all the crap we don't use. Old clothes, crappy towels, random kitchen crap.

No, Nick, the cat and the Christmas stuff do not get counted as "stuff we don't use".

(See that? I anticipated and blocked his potential future argument with NINJA LAWYER skillz.)

We close Friday and move this Saturday- and have to finish buying new furniture (including a new bed, because Nick finally realized I was going to set the mattress on fire and see if it really is made of sheetrock, as I think it is. And my back agrees). And it's lots of work, and so I'm trying to get on the blogger horse, but if I'm slightly delayed... it's cause we're nesting. In Nick's house! And I will be getting back on the horse FOR REAL once that has happened.

Now, if you'll excuse me, the Russian neighbors are playing obnoxiously loud techno and I need to silence them with bagpipes.

PS: Anyone know a good place to donate used wares in the Alexandria/Arlington area?

#MissionAccomplished

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Mon, 02 May 2011 03:58:00 +0000

Best reason to take a study break EVER.

He's dead.

Bin Laden. Is. Dead.

Thank you, US Military (and your families). Thank you, CIA. I know you all have a lot of work to do, and you're all in my prayers tonight (and every night). But we proved tonight many things: one of which is that we will always get our man.

United we stand... and united, we prevailed.

thirty-two

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 03:43:00 +0000

Four years later, I still remember.

That 32 angels live on through the spirt of Virginia Tech.

And I remember a university that stood up to hate.

to cruelty.

to a senseless, horrible act.

And showed the world how amazing Virginia Tech was.

is.

To the Hokies in my life, the Hokies I don't know, everyone who feels a little cold on 4/16...

you're not alone.

We remember.

We're all Hokies today.

Ultimate Warrior: Liz vs. Ants

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 18:09:00 +0000

I hate ants. I seriously hate ants. They're annoying, they get everywhere, they're tiny crawly things. When I see them, I freak. I can feel them crawling on me (God, just typing this, I feel them. Gah). I want them gone, I want them out, and I won't rest until they are. Every. Last. One.

Supposedly, they're incredibly war-like, to the point where they will do anything to destroy an opposing ant army. I've also heard ants could survive a nuclear war.

Nuclear war is one thing, but Death By Liz is a helluva lot worse.

In case you haven't figured it out yet, my apartment has been invaded by ants. The little tiny sugar seeking ants that come in when it rains heavily and gets warm. We've dealt with them once before, put some Raid down and they were gone.

The ants have evolved, however. They're more persistent. Maybe they're concerned about the government shutdown, and are trying to stock up. Which, hey, I get that, but not in my house.

Since I'm incredibly neurotic, I've spent the last two days doing battle to keep ant hordes from trespassing in and adversely possessing my office (Nick's too, but they like my side, apparently). They started in one corner, swarming on my desk. I reacted by spraying down Raid everywhere, vaccumming, and Raiding again. I figured a bunch were hiding in my printer (really?), and so I Raided the floor underneath, put my vaccuum to it, and watched them stumble out, dazed, into the poison I'd planted.

Victory, right?

No. They were back the next day. I continued my defensive attack- their second wave was far less powerful, and no match for my wit. And love of ant poison. I sprayed the entire perimeter of the carpet. I found the holes they were coming in (there were multiple ones- and would move from one to the next) and took a caulking gun to it. Yeah, that's right. I caulked it. I'm that badass.

The results?
1. The ants are all dead (I think).
2. My office is probably unsafe for human habitation and potentially a Superfund site.

I'm hoping I really did get all of them. I literally caulked all the places I could, and Raided the rest. However, I am worried they'll keep coming- does anyone have any suggestions? Anyone else really, really, really hate ants? Am I just neurotic?

Seriously, help me. Before I end up inhaling enough ant poison to cause serious brain damage. I need it for finals.

Like Candy Land for Adults: Old Town Coffee, Tea and Spice

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 17:33:00 +0000

There's something about the smell of tea leaves, about little hidden gems tucked away that win my love oh-so-easily. Despite my post below, I do try to usually avoid coffee and drink tea. I'm a sucker for a good Japanese sencha or green tea, and Nick loves black tea (thus the tea above).

When Cee was visiting, we popped into Old Town Coffee, Tea, and Spice to see what they had. We were not disappointed- everything from Japanese tea sets, candles and gifts, to tea. You walked in and got hit with the scent of black tea, vanilla, chai, pineapple, something earthy and musky, something woodsy, and of course, tea. You realize why- shelves upon shelves of any kind of tea or coffee you could imagine greet you inside. It's impossible to not feel slightly overwhelmed- you can see the tea, see the little good bits inside. No worries if you are like me and stand there, slack-jawed and stupefied over the sheer mass of decisions. If you want to sample a tea, ask for a cup- it's only one dollar. Questions about what kind of tea to get? The man who owned the shop seemed incredibly helpful, the kind who really knew tea and loved tea. (Passion, it's a good thing). He suggested the tea above for Nick, had me smell some teas (having no idea that I was a blogger mentally recording everything for a review). He explained different ways to steep tea when on the road, on the best strainers, on what to look for for a good green tea. And if there's one thing I love more than small business, it's a helpful owner running said business.

The coffee was perhaps the best I'd had in awhile- brewed truly strong, not at all watered down, so get the small. It was a raspberry chocolate brew, and I hate- hate- flavored coffee. I loved this, because it didn't taste flavored. It tasted like espresso and a bit of chocolate and berry and overall, divine. There were a lot of beans there too, from all continents and kinds of tea possible (I admit to not paying much attention. I was focused on the tea). I am really serious when I say "get the small". Their coffee is brewed with a kick (or this stuff was), and I needed to dilute it with some milk and sugar. It also was a true small (think smaller than the Starbucks "small/kid size"), but really, I didn't need anything more. Maybe an elephant would, but your average female law school blogger is trying to avoid caffeine induced heart attacks.

The prices were great, too. Sometimes, small boutiques have to rack up prices to compete and stay alive. Either Teavana is far more overpriced than I ever imagined, or Old Town Coffee, Tea, and Spice is selling themselves short. No matter what, if you're a tea fan or a coffee fan looking for a fix, something to take home, or just something new, turn off King, walk the two blocks to Old Town Coffee, and enter into hot beverage heaven. Trust me. You'll love it.

Old Town Coffee, Tea, and Spice

215 South Union Street Alexandria, VA
(703) 683-0856

Twas the Night Before Briefs Were Due...

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 02:05:00 +0000

And all through the house, not a creature was stirring... except for the hyperactive, furiously typing 1L cracked out on ca fe sua da.

Mmm, legal crack...

To all my fellow law students who don't know what this stuff is, it's potent caffeine torpedoes of sugary goodness. Over ice. It is also easy to make if you have the right stuff- Vietnamese coffee, coffee filter, and of course, Longevity condensed milk (click on the words, they're Amazon links). All for about 20 bucks (and this makes a lot. Many, many, many cups. Beats Starbucks by a mile). You can also get them at a lot of Asian food stores (or anywhere in Eden Center).

The best part is the condensed milk, if only for its name. I'm 90% this stuff is the opposite of longevity, in fact, I'm pretty sure it's a canned form of diabetes.

Does a pancreas good

Making it is easy enough- once you figure out how (read the directions, it helps). The filter requires you put a scoop of the very potent and strong Viet coffee in the bottom of the filter- underneath the part your screw off (rookie mistake #1 for me). Then, you need to screw the top filter down on top of the grounds as tightly as you can. Use a knife or screwdriver. The faster it drips through, the more grounds you'll get (rookie mistake #2). Boil water in a tea kettle, and put in a cup some ice (fill it about halfway), two tablespoons of the condensed milk (add more if you need later- this stuff is seriously sweet), and place the filter is on top of the glass (see above), pour the hot water into it and place the top piece over it. Why? I'm pretty sure to keep it hot- coffee needs hot water to properly... um... steep. I think that's the word.

After that?

Drip.

Drip.

Drip.

Come here, my precious

The coffee drips down into the milk, giving you fantastic swirling effects as coffee and sugary hydrogenized dairy product melt together in a marriage of caffeinated beauty and bliss. Once all the water is out of the filter, stir, sip. Smile. Let the beverage give you a moment of deceiving serenity until the ingredients slip into your bloodstream and jolt your heart awake with a swift kick to its squishy parts.

Then go truck through whatever project of the day it is. You'll Chuck Norris the law faster than Charlie Sheen can torpedo trolls. #Winning.

Yes, this is an actual blogpost. Judge as you like.

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:42:00 +0000

Apparently, I’m in a Jennifer Garner flick and somehow went back to 1997, when I was 12. I am basing this off the following news stories that have recently surfaced:
-Backstreet’s back… and with the New Kids. This confuses the crap out of me, as those seem to be two different boy band eras, one that I never was able to get into.
-Nickelodeon is going to be showing Clarissa Explains It All and Hey Dude on Nick at Nite, which is just fabulous in so many ways because Clarissa was my idol. I even had the best friend/neighbor boy (minus the ladder to the window, because Dad was all “liability this” and I didn’t care because I wanted to have the ladder. I even had the windowseat, but no, my parents would not get on this. Tragic, I know). Oh, and the Ginger little brother, so, yeah. Perfect, right?
-Doug, according to Heather (fellow student and Bones fanatic), had a free episode released a couple weeks ago, and I am so on it.
-Beavis and Butthead is returning to MTV.
And, finally, the focus of today’s post, Sweet Valley High has released a 10 year later “Sequel”, promising more tragically hilarious soap opera drama in book form.

For those of you that don’t know SVH, or the other series around it, Sweet Valley High was a “young adults series” incredibly popular with younger girls (10-15) about the perfect residents of a perfect Southern California town. The stories focused on the “blond haired, aquamarine-eyed, perfect size six” twin sisters Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield. Elizabeth, the older twin, was supposed to be the saintly good twin- studied hard, always a good heart, blah blah blah. Jessica was the wild one, impulsive, boy-crazy, and never able to live up to Saint Elizabeth. The girls would encounter various dramas touching on the theme of the day like your standard After-School Special, from anorexia to drunk driving to date rape, and always come out happy and perfect in the end because this is Sweet Valley, after all.

Frankly, I was never an Elizabeth fan. Readers have always said Jessica is slightly sociopathic, and after have a trip down nostalgia lane thanks to the Internets last night, I disagreed (enough to blog about it). Frankly, I though Jessica was at least a real and honest person, or 16 year old. She made mistakes. She was human. She did crazy things and embraced it, she left messes, and seemed to thumb her nose at her perfect twin, perfect family, and perfect town by being imperfect. Elizabeth, on the other hand, seems much more sociopathic (at least manipulative), especially when you read her “secret diary”. (Yes, world, they had “Secret Diary” editions, which were mostly montages in book form of past events with the occasional bombshell revelation. Sad, I know, but hey, this is the original Gossip Girl. Also, yes, I made that comparison. Bite me, it’s my blog).

Anyways, so what was my issue with Dear Lizzie? Why did I hate her so, especially since hey, fellow Liz here. After all, she was so rational. She had the boring boyfriend (who she clearly didn’t love and cheated on. A lot. But it was okay, because it was Elizabeth). She never stole Jessica’s boyfriends like Jessica did to her (oh wait, yeah she did). She didn’t associate with snobby society types like Jessica, because Elizabeth didn’t like those snobby elitists (apparently, Elizabeth was the original Sarah Palin? Jesus. Also, talk about a circular argument- “I’m not a snob, I’m middle class! Those people are!”). And everyone loved Elizabeth, she could never, ever do wrong. Elizabeth, after all, rarely chose with her heart, because that would be crazy. Every decision was rational, logical- calculated.

I didn’t think Elizabeth was a believable character as a sixteen year old, though she was slightly better in Sweet Valley University. I just don’t get the Jessica hate- sure, the girl is a trainwreck. But I would be too if all I ever heard is “why can’t you be the good twin”, no matter what happens or how effed up she acts. Elizabeth was no angel or saint, and I’m pretty sure Jessica (if she was real) would hate the fact that she could do no good and her twin could do no wrong.

Frankly, the best character of the book (who has been emulated in teen media ever since as a character type) was and is Lila Fowler. Lila was the poor little rich girl- a beautiful brunette, noveuau riche who had everything but Daddy’s love. Mom was out of the picture, and Daddy was busy building empires. She was the original mean girl of Sweet Valley, and Jessica’s best friend. But Lila was real- and always got shafted with something awful (date rape) and acted in a surprisingly human way. Sure, Lila might have been a bitch and the second least perfect person in SV, but she reveled in her badassitude. And Lila seemed to be reincarnated in series after series of books and teen tv (SVH was also a show)- Cordelia Chase (Buffy); Summer Roberts (The OC); Blair Waldorf (Gossip Girl); and even Lilah Morgan (Angel, whom many fans had joked was the adult version of Lila Fowler) were all the Queen Bees, Bitch Extraordinare, wealthy, brunette Mean Girls dominating their series. Just like fabulous Lila. If she’s not in the sequel, I might shank someone.

Anyways, yes, I’m going to read the new book when I need something soft and fluffy to tear through and distract me from law school. I’m curious- is Lila Fowler a Real Housewife building an empire (if she doesn’t already own Sweet Valley)? Did she end up with Bruce Patman (God, I hope not)? Speaking of Bruce- is he still driving a car with the “1Bruce1” license plates (Um, yes please)? Is Enid out yet? Hell, are Enid and Todd both out? Is Sweet Valley still Sweet?

So, who here will admit to reading SVH as kids? Who was your favorite character? Am I right about Elizabeth, or am I wasting way too much time psychoanalyzing a fluffy YA series than I should? And who here will read the new book- and/or, what would you want to see in it?

I promise 26 year old Liz will be back on the next blog.

Ten on Tuesday [breaking the cherry]

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 02:51:00 +0000

Disclaimer: I've never tried this before, but it's a meme-post started by Chelsea at Roots and Rings, and I've seen her, Lia, and Meredith do it for awhile now, so I figured that (since this week is food-centric), I should hop on the bandwagon. It will at least make me post every Tuesday (until I forget). So thanks to Chelsea for organizing this, and here I go!

1. What is a food that you never thought you would try, but then tried and liked?
Okay, this might sound weird now, but I was the World's Pickiest Eater as a kid. No red sauce, no veggies, no mushrooms, no veal, no lamb, nothing. So really, everything, but I am super-surprised at how much I like Kimchi (see #5 below for more), aka fermented spicy Korean cabbage. Also known as amazeballs.

2. Do you subscribe to any foodie publications? If so, which ones?
Every month, the people who used to live in our apartment gets Vegetarian Magazine. I return it to the sender, because I like *meat*, dangit! ... Does that count?

3. What ingredient do you find yourself reaching for the most when you cook?
Dude, this household is single-handedly supporting the Italian olive oil trade. If we're cooking, it involves olive oil. I'm 99% sure it's healthy, right?

4. Are there any foods that you hated as a child, but then learned to like as an adult?
Number one really answers this. One childhood hate that carried over? Eggplant. But I like veal now, asparagus, lamb, mushrooms, red sauce...

5. What do you like to eat that others may consider weird?
Kimchi. Oh man. What do I not love about kimchi. That stuff is awesome. Delicious. I pound it on it's own. Really. I'm waiting to bring it to school for lunch to guarantee my own table in the library. Stuff is potent. Potently delicious, that is. Also, beef tongue (really good!), hae jae guk (Korean hangover soup, made with ox blood... mmmmm), and bone marrow, which I will shank someone over. Oh holy Jesus, that stuff is like butter, but better.

6. What is the weirdest ingredient you’ve ever cooked with?
Not kimchi, to be honest. I have a lot of weird things in my fridge, thanks to my international cooking habits- including fish sauce, mung bean paste... I know there's some other I can't think of right now. I do weird things. It happens.

7. Do you have any major food allergies?
Technically they are "intolerances" that are severe, crippling, and full of suck. I am soy and lactose intolerant. Severely. Of this, I ignore the lactose a lot more than I should because cheese is GOOD yo. Soy... yeah, I can live without that. But milk? That sucks. That's hard to avoid. I've done it. It's not fun.

8. Is there an ingredient that you would like to cook with, but are intimidated to try?
Not really. I kinda jump in and go for the gusto on this stuff.

9. Do you bake?
Is the Pope Catholic? Heck yes I do! I bake lots. I like baking. Mostly because when I'm stressed out and studying and trying to make my brief perfect, I naturally crave sweet things. Like chocolate. In cupcake form.

10. If you could go on any “foodie” show to compete, which one would it be, and why?
The show I'd want to be on wouldn't be to compete, it'd be Anthony Bourdain's No Reservation. It might end with me having a restraining order/his wife beating the crap out of me after I get tanked and try to pet Tony (not in that way, you pervs), but I'd kinda die a little because I'd meet Anthony Bourdain. Other than that, I'd want to go on Iron Chef America alone and face off against Sandra Lee with Bourdain, Ruhlman, and Burrell judging me. Aunt Sandy would go doowwwwwwn faster than she can say "vodka".

A week of freedom

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:51:00 +0000

This last week, I was on Spring Break, otherwise known as a glorious burst of fresh air and freedom from law school, casebooks, and all that jazz.

Naturally, I spent my time frolicking about, of which I have pictorial evidence of- Look, see! I'm not always in my office, hiding in a book!

And so here you have a week (plus one) of freedom, Liz style.

Saturday was Cupcakes and Old Town.

Sunday was pho at Eden Center.

Monday I baked bread and reconciled with Shoppers.

Tuesday I made lasagna for my darling Italian.

Wednesday I went home to see my favorite little monster, Loki, and spent a day with my Dad.

Thursday I came back to finish my Japan fundraiser crafts,

made homemade pop tarts and Korean Bbq.

Friday was the celebration of my 2 year anniversary with Nick-

and a trip to Ray's Hellburger to max my staycation weight gain!

[And I lost the picture to this. Grr....]

Saturday we had more pho and laid around.

Sunday we made sushi together and prepared for the return of school.

So my week off might not have been spent on an island drinking pina coladas, but as weeks go, it was pretty darn good.

What would you do with a week off?

Helping Japan

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:19:00 +0000

At 16, I was supposed to travel to Japan.

It was a dream come true. I was a huge Otaku and Nippon-phile. I was teaching myself Japanese, snacking on Pocky, forcing my white bread family to take me to sushi, planning ways to get Dad to take me to a matcha ceremony, to Shinjuku, to temples, to an onsen (traditional spa). I was beside myself with excitement.

Two days before my flight was scheduled to leave for Hong Kong (where I'd meet my father who was coming in from Karachi, since I'd had to cancel that leg of my trip due to security concerns), my mother found me on the floor, unable to swallow, barely able to breathe, hallucinating from a 105 degree fever. I was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with mono.

I never made it to Japan.

It's been the trip I swore I would take by the time I was thirty, the trip that haunts me. I'm not so sad about missing out on Hong Kong, but Tokyo? Talk about regret.

After college, plotting my escape from DC and politics, I'd figured if I didn't get into law school, I'd go teach in Japan. Then I met Nick, got into Baltimore Law- again, directed away from making good on my dream.

Hearing about the earthquake and tsunami broke my heart. While Japan's incredible engineering and preparation saved millions of lives, thousands are dead. Villages and towns are decimated. The added threat to those families immediately around the nuclear power plant- to a country that knows the costs of radiation all too well- furthers the tragic consequences and heartbreak of the Japanese.

The Japanese are an incredibly strong people. They live in the spirit of "gaman", a Japanese word that, very roughly, means keep going, don't stop, stay strong, prevail. It is why the Japanese haven't had the looting and violence we saw in New Orleans, it is why we've seen a sense of community across the country as everyone chips in to help. It is beyond admirable, it is a trait that I hope Americans take note of- and learn.

However, the Japanese still need the world's help. CNN and Fox might be busy covering whether Gaddafi is wearing a green Cap O' Crazy or a red Cap O' Crazy today; whether they have the best bombing footage- but the Japanese crisis has continued, left behind by 24 hour news. Watch NHK, or look at the English Asahi news site. Two weeks after the disaster, many are still in shelters, the nuclear crisis continues, and 10,000 are dead. Elderly are dying in shelters because of a lack of medicine. Food is scarce in the areas that were hardest hit.

I've donated, both to the Red Cross and through Westlaw by giving all my student reward points to purchase donations to Japan's Red Cross Fund. I wanted to do more, despite my limited financial resources.

So, I crafted. I made three notebooks from my 1969 atlas of Japan, I made kanji cards with a gaman theme. I put them on Etsy at my Lizzycakes shop, and will be donating all of the proceeds to the Japanese Red Cross (courtesy of the link given by NHK). None of the money will be going to me.

Love Japan

Tokyo and Chiba

Hokkaido and the north end of Honshu.

If you're interested in purchasing, click here to go to my Lizzycakes shop.

If you'd rather donate on your own, please consider these charities working in Japan:
Japanese Red Cross
Doctors Without Borders
Japan Tsunami Animal Help

Additionally, there are tons of other Etsy sellers making stuff to benefit Japan. Threadless also has two fantastic t-shirts, one for the Japanese recovery, the other for the Christchurch (NZ) quake [which hit at the end of February and devastated Christchurch].

Together, we can help keep Japan and it's people strong. Please help make a difference.

ありがとう [Arigato!]

x-posted on the lizzycakes shop blog.

I'm Sorry, Shoppers

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:28:00 +0000

Dear Shoppers Across the Street from Me:

[pauses long enough for the stalkers to narrow down my location]

I admit, I unfairly judged you. I saw your orange beacon as that of poor quality and sketchiness. I noted your slightly dirty floors and sometimes weird smells and took it as affirmations of these suspicions. Sure, the Teeter and Mom's might not look like much either, but for some reason, I avoided you like the plague, nose upturned. Hmmph! I'd say. I don't shop at that nasty Shoppers.

I had reason, you have to see. Another of you scorned me badly, back when I was a little undergrad in Fairfax. Imagine my horrors to have spoiled vegetables and milk turning on me within days of buying it! I was wrong, I know, to judge all of you based on one bad seed. But you try starting to cook something delicious to find out your milk has turned in two days! It hurts. And smells. More of the latter, but, I'll make this about you, not me.

When I came in yesterday to your orange and white covered store, I was still leery. I was also in need of pork shoulder, beef bones, and other things they don't carry at the nice, ritzy WASP-approved grocery stores I usually visit. So I was looking carefully. And then I found not just good meats, not just a fair range of veggies that were fresh, but pho makings. Like, actual noodles. Fish sauce. The stuff I'm currently driving 30 minutes to get at the H Mart. Right. Across. The. Street.

And so, Shoppers, I allow you back into my life. I will give you another chance, if not only for stocking a range in veggies but also because you have the random crap I need for my Asian cooking needs. I'm sorry for doubting you. Forgive me?

Cupcakes O' Forgiveness,
Liz

PS: We'll work back up to milk. Sorry.

Get me my beret and a black turtleneck

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 23:27:00 +0000

Okay, I am not a poet. I do not rhyme things well, as it's rather difficult when your brain goes "DON'T USE ORANGE!" and then all the sudden all you can think about is oranges. And writing about them. Then you're stuck with all these mismatched not rhyming verses because of orange. And you want orange juice. Maybe with champagne.

Hold please.

Anyways, mmm, yes, where was I? Oh yeah, poetry. Anyways, April is National Poetry Month, according to the fine folks at Seven City Art Society, who wanted me to know about the Quill Well Poetry Festival. It's April 3rd-8th here in Alexandria, and will allow aspiring poets and bards to curl their mustaches and whip out something black and moody. There are competitions, open mics, and lessons for those of us who only wishes we could write poetry. Head over to quillwell.com for more information, and check out the schedule they sent me (below).

THE INKWELL
Poetry Competition for Mature Adults
Sunday, April 3, 2011
The Goodwin House
4800 Fillmore Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22311
7pm, FREE

SPOKEN LESSONS
Poetic Teacher Showcase & Community Forum
Hosted by Sharaud Moore, Freedom Writer Foundation
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Collingwood Library and Museum
8301 East Boulevard Drive
Alexandria, VA 22308
7pm, $12

WRITE.SPEAK.LIVE!
Open Mic & Live Music
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Renaissance Hall
1121 King St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
7pm, $7

The ILL QUILL
Youth Competition
Featuring the award winning Bull City Slam Team
Friday, April 8, 2011
The Kauffman Auditorium
1108 Jefferson St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
7pm, $10

So come out and support local artists and local organizations making a good in the Alx during April 3-8!

Are You My Vietnamese Nana

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 19:16:00 +0000

Magic.

Last weekend, I was lucky enough to have my best friend Cee escape med school for a short visit. Cee goes to school in the rural South, so she is deprived of pho. This is a tragedy, as Cee was not only one of my main pho buddies, but helped me learn to make pho. Since she needed her fix, I needed my fix, and we were both feeling the night before's wine, we headed to Eden Center in Falls Church for my favorite pho spot, Pho Saigon.

As always, the pho was delicious, and helped cleanse my body of all those tannens sticking to my liver. But what made the pho even better was meeting the Vietnamese version of my Nana. I swear, y'all, this could be my Nana's twin. She came in quietly, wearing nicely pressed pants and big earrings. The quiet didn't last long as she took one look at the tv screen- showing a Vietnamese soap opera- and wandered back into the kitchen area. The TV instantly changed over to Fox News, and this tiny lady comes up to us (the only other patrons at this early hour). "I told them," she says with a mischievous smile, "to turn that crap off!"

And I realized this lady could be my Vietnamese Nana.

The comparisons continued. The firehouse ensured we were well taken care of. She brought us bamboo chopsticks, telling us to always ask for the cellophane-covered wooden ones. "You know they are clean," she explained. When I asked the women at the counter where I could buy Vietnamese Lotus Tea- this amazing anise flavored green tea which I am obsessed with- she came right up, and told me some places to check.

My Nana.

My Nana would, in a heartbeat, walk up to a restaurant in Weaverville and demand something gets changed. Hell, my Nana has her own special off-menu item kept at one of the restaurants in town. She'd make sure everyone around her is taken care of, she'd definitely adopt random patrons. And seeing this lady, about her size, her height, her dress, her style, who just embodied that universal spirit of Nanaism- that was awesome.

So here's to you, Vietnamese Nana, and my real Nana, and all the Nanas of the world who'll take care of anyone who stumbles across your path. The world is a better place thanks to y'all.

Drag Queens, Beauty Queens, and Blog Awards, oh my!

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 02:38:00 +0000

So, check out this awesomeness from btdoubleyou, aka Lady CO, aka Lia. She gave me an award! Shiny! Awesome.

And this award is the type where you share, because sharing is caring (according to pirates, Barney, and my Property Law professor), and so I'm going to share. Potentially overshare, but hey, isn't that what blogging is for?

Rules:

1} Thank and link back to the lovely ladies who gave me the award.

2} Write 7 random facts about yourself/answer 10 questions

3} Pass this award along to a few other bloggers

4} Leave the a note letting them know about the award

7 Random Facts. Which I'm really bad at, so this should be interesting.

1. I'm kinda sorta obsessed with green tea. Like, on a total Japanese green tea kick right now, which is why I spent way too much money at Teavana this weekend.
2. I am inexplicably drawn to all things sparkly.
3. I prefer yellow gold over white gold. I'm sorry, when I'm wearing gold, you should know it's gold and not silver. Also, Hepburn would totally agree.
4. (Crap, I'm only on 4? This is hard) I am totally addicted to dark chocolate. I mean dark. 75%, please. And I have to have a little bit every day or else I am cranky. Look, leave my addictions alone. According to law school people, I should be snorting Coke off a Glannon guide by now. Be glad it's just good dark chocolate.
5. I recently got a Macbook Air for my birthday. This means I have a Macbook, Macbook Air, and iPad. If I'm not an Apple whore, then Vista was a great decision.
6. I have an issue with hitting the snooze button to the point where I will not wake up in time to get to class. This is bad, because professors really do not like this and will call on you in revenge. So, I installed an alarm widget on my Android (note, not an iPhone!) which will make me do math problems. However, I am really bad at math. This is going to be a horrible idea.
7. 7 is not my lucky number. It's 17.

10 Questions, which are already laid out so I don't have to make stuff up (thank you baby Jesus)!

1} Why did you create this blog?
I was bored at work and going through some quarter-life changes- big girl job, blah blah blah, breaking up with college boyfriend. I needed a place to kinda put stuff and, plus, like most bloggers, I'm a wee bit of an attention whore.

2} What kinds of blogs do you follow?
Ummmm, according to my Google reader (which I am so bad at following) it's mostly personal blogs. Some law blogs, a lot of cooking and baking blogs, and some design blogs. But really, I read blogs that are like mine- hodgepodges of whatever someone feels like at this time.

3} Favorite makeup brand?
Uhhhhhhhhhhhh.... I guess I have a lot of Neutrogena. I'm not a big makeup... yeah, next question?

4} Favorite clothing brand?
I wear a lot of Gap and 7 for all Mankind jeans. I don't know if I have a brand, though. Apple? No, wait, that's computers. Crap. Next?

5} Indispensable makeup product?
....... concealer? *Whimper* Is that a makeup product?

6}Favorite color?
Purple. Look at the blog. Is that not obvious? Also, thank you for the stopping in the girly questions that I have no ability to answer and proving my inadequacy in the realm of makeup.

7} Favorite perfume?
... Dammit. Um. I... have perfume? Somewhere. But I don't wear it. I shower. It works really well. So does deodorant. If I'm wearing perfume, that probably means I did not shower, and you should just steer clear of me.

8}Favorite Film?
The Trilogy. Which, to misquote Clerks 2, is clearly THE trilogy, aka Star Wars (the originals, not the gawdawful prequels). Not the hobbits. The hobbits were cool, but the Wars are kind of the greatest things known to mankind.

9} What country would you like to visit and why?
Vietnam. and Japan. It's a tie. Nick and I actually just talked about this. I am obsessed with Asian food, and I'm been a long time Nipponphile. Vietnam just seems beautiful, captivating, and a foodie's paradise.

10} Would you rather forget to put blush on one cheek, or mascara on one eye?
Look, if I'm wearing blush, then I've probably been taken captive by drag queens and y'all better be raising ransom funds for me. Actually, scratch that. If I've been taken captive by drag queens, let me stay. I'll be fine. But if I've been captured by beauty queens or anyone who was featured on Toddlers and Tiaras, then forget the ransom money-- send in the freaking US Military. Presume I am being tortured and in the worst. manner. ever. I'll be staging my escape by using falsies as ninja throwing stars.

Whee! I did it! Now who am I passing this shiny on to?

The lovely Kate of Kate Sullivan Blogs.

The fabulous Jamie of Jamie's JD.

And the awesome KK of Ohhayitskk.

Red Alert: Satan is here. Amongst us.

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:54:00 +0000

So, I might have been procrastinating in my usual manner and stumbled upon Food Network Humor, which is oh-so-brilliant. I might not agree with them on everything (because I love Paula Deen and hope to be just like her at 60. Who wouldn't? Also, I don't hate Duff Goldman.) but omg. Spot on on most other things. Also, lots of epic Sandra Lee getting smashed screencaps.

FYI, FN, if you really think you need a cooking show for lush housewives from Jersey, can't you at least have Snooki host it?

However, while there, I stumbled upon the factoid that Guy Fieri, the King Douchebag and Worst Person in America, is actually Guy Ferry, who changes his name to sound more Italian. Because he wanted to open a pizza joint and holyshitisthisguyracistorwhat?

And then it gets better. Worse. Something, because I saw this factoid while Wikipediaing and holy baby Jesus, my soul actually died while reading it.

Fieri currently lives in Santa Rosa, in northern California, with his wife Lori and two sons, Hunter (age 14) and Ryder (age 5). His 19 tattoos, including one dedicated to Evel Knievel,[3] are part of his look, which he describes as "kulinary gangsta".[9]

... Kulinary.... gangsta...?

America, Satan is here. He is walking among us. But he's not wearing a white suit, he's peroxiding his hair and has sunglasses on the back of his head and oh God, St. Tony, St. Andres, St. Burrell, help us.

Oh yeah, and while I'm here: please donate to the Japanese earthquake/tsunami relief effort (Red Cross link here). Not only do they really need our help, but if you don't, Guy Fieri will come at you like you're an Ed Hardy shirt on clearance. But seriously. Donate. Thanks.

When Nyquil rules my remote

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:11:00 +0000

I've been at home sick, which sucks for a law student, because there is nothing worse than lying in bed, knowing you have so much to do, but you can't do it.

However, I did, as I came out of a Nyquil induced haze, watch a lot of daytime TV. This is what I learned from my non-legal education:

1. There's still nothing on during the day. Except now, the quality is worse because Discovery: Health is OWN (the Oprah network), which is 99% TLC shows I've already seen and without the dramas such as "I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant" and "The World's 3 Ton Man". Fail, Oprah, fail.
2. Anne Burrell on the Food Network is my new bestie. Seriously, go Food Network for finally giving a non-Bobblehead a show. Anne Burrell is like your cheery punk BFF that will skip on a ray of skittles and happiness until you dare cross her. Then, she'll pull out a knife and shank you in the kidney while smiling and saying words Sailors won't say. Then she'd return to skipping. I mean, she's not just a good, accomplished restaurant chef- who has worked under Batali, I believe. She makes clam jokes and has a "thank you for coming" bowl. She's adorable. Heartsies, Anne. Heartsies.
3. On the same note, never trust a skinny Food Network chef: See: Sandra Lee, Claire "Boobs" Robinson, Robin Miller... would you eat some of those dishes they create? Does Claire Robinson even cook, or do they just stick her chest on various reality shows to judge avec cleavage? The ladies proving my point that a good chef looks like she eats includes Ina Garten, Anne, and the Queen of Queens, our Lady of Butter, Paula Deen (who I heart and adore above all others. Can she be my Southern mama?). Hell, even Rachael Ray has a little paunch (not bad! Good! Like she looks like she eats!) and her food is decent. I like Rachael, okay. She's no Ina, but she's good.
Exception: Giada de Laurentiis. I'm not convinced she eats her food, but it is good.
4. Watching OWN for any period of time makes your brain melt. This is worse than Lifetime. Either someone's crying or it's the 4 millionth time they're showing one of the three Say Yes to the Dress! episodes they own the rights to.
5. One day, I will go on Ninja Warrior. Setting up a Ninja Warrior course in your apartment, while on Nyquil, using pillows and couch cushions, is not recommended.
6. Daytime TV still really sucks. And with that, I'm off to take more Advil Cold and Sinus while cramming for a midterm.

Don't ever go to law school, kids. Even your sick days will suck.

Be awesome and help @ohhayitskk out!

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 19:06:00 +0000

So, I promised KK I'd post about this forever ago, totally forgot, and then was reminded by this post that I am a horrible slacker person.

KK, who is a hilariously awesome blogger who also is in the law school world, and might be known from her guest post on, well, this very blog, is running in the Boston Marathon. In case you don't know what the Boston Marathon is, it is the Marathon to kill all marathons. It is hardcore and then some. It's the Charlie Sheen of marathons.

KK has to raise $3,250 by March 18th to run and support the Boston Arts Academy, and she needs help meeting her goal. So, since she is awesome, I wanted to ask all my cupcake-filled readers to please throw in anything you can (if you can). This is not only a great cause that KK is running for, but it would be awesome for the blogging community to come together and help out one of our own.

So please, donate here, and feel free to spread the word to help KK meet her fundraising goal!

Thanks for being rockstars,

Liz

"This is Wachovia's Fraud Protection Calling..."

noreply@blogger.com (Liz in...) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:03:00 +0000

That was the introduction I heard yesterday morning as I sat on my morning MARC train to school. I'd already had a crappy morning- I was running late, had watched the train I like to take pull out of the station as I got there, and felt like I'd been hit by a large truck during my not-so-restful slumber the night before.

"Did you make a purchase of 188.00 to [some online computer software store]?" The automated recording asked, and my heart stopped. No, I did not. I didn't need to scroll through my head for verification. I immediately pressed one, and found myself connected to a very reassuring operator. My debit card had been compromised, and they'd have to shut it off. I was given a case number, informed a police report (FBI, actually) was being filed, and Wachovia would ensure I could access cash if I needed to at any time.

I'm incredibly grateful- and impressed- at Wachovia/Wells Fargo's handling of the situation. I don't have premium or a special account, my account there is free. They monitored my activity and knew immediately this purchase- which had been attempted just minutes before- was not my usual area of purchasing. Once I verified that it was not me, they denied the purchase, meaning no funds of mine were compromised and I wasn't out any money. I was completely protected by their vigilance and competence, and it has re-affirmed my satisfaction with their services. Wachovia/Wells Fargo, you guys get major snaps from me for this.

However, I was more than a little disturbed that someone had gotten my debit card number. I use my debit card for, well, everything, I admit. But I'm incredibly paranoid about where and how I use it. I consider myself very security savvy. I scan everything for a skimmer attachment. I monitor my activity every day. I look at every site I go to, I watch for phishing schemes like crazy. I change my passwords constantly. None of them match. How could I have been compromised?

Concerned, my Dad went to the Wachovia in town and asked where someone could have gotten my information. The bank said the majority of these cases come from restaurants, sadly. The waiter takes your card from you and has it out of your sight. They can copy down the number and use it for their own enjoyment. Despite all my neurosis about technology being used, I forgot that men are not angels (to quote James Madison), and they're my concern- not, necessarily, the machines.

I'm sharing this story not just to show my extreme satisfaction with Wachovia/Wells Fargo, but as a warning. I'm willing to bet there are a lot of people like me- neurotic about online use, skimmers, but think nothing of handing someone your debit card to pay for a meal, and letting them walk off with it. Putting your card down as a tab at a bar. Yes, you don't have to worry about paying for it later, but you do have to worry about who you're giving it to.

I don't mean to insinuate that every waiter or waitress- or even the majority- would do this. I've used my card like this for years, at hundreds of restaurants. This is the first time this happened. Most restaurant types have my utmost respect for dealing with the crap they put up with and would never do this. But, I learned my lesson: I'm using my debit card in a way that puts me- and my cash- at risk. You can bet I'll be changing my habits.

What about you- do you use your debit card everywhere? How cautious (or paranoid) are you about where you're using it? Have you ever gone through this? Waiters, waitresses, I'd love to hear your stories or thoughts.