San Jose Delay

I was scared that I was going to miss my flight. I had a lot of work to finish up today and so left later than what I had planned. I asked a fellow co-worker how long it would take the blue line from where we were to O'HARE Airport. He told me that I should allow an hour and a half. That didn't give me much time at all. My flight was scheduled to depart at 7:10pm and I left the office around 4:30pm and I still ad to hike it about 5-6 blocks to the train station. To make matters worse, it was raining. I left my office building turned the corner and went back to the next door Walgreens to purchase an umbrella. After a quick 5 minutes I walked towards down the jackson/blueline stop. I went the steps and asked the security guy which was the entrance to the blue line. He pointed me towards the other-end and said State Street. I quickly dashed through the long hall way but kept noticing the signs that only read REDLINE. Once I got to the other side I turned around to look at what the sign read for the direction I came from, yep you guessed it. The bulletined entrance was behind me. UGH!! I lost another 5-10 minutes there.

I headed back cursing that security guy in my head. He saw me approach and probably saw the disgusted look n my face. He stared at me as I approached closer, to which I spoke up and said- "you sent me to the wrong direction, I need the blue line. I didn't even wait for his reaction and scanned my pass on the turn style. The other security guy who was standing next to him did manage to raise a smile out of me. He said - I'll let you ride free if you slap him. I smiled and said, no that's ok I don't want to get arrested.

I scurried down the flight of steps and waited for my train, while being serenaded by a drunken street performer singing "unforgettable" AND "New York, New York".

The train arrive I think with 10 minutes or so and actually wasn't too long in arriving to the airport. All in all I think the train ride took a full hour. I was going to have to make a quick dash to check in and go through security, but I was sure I was going to make it on time.

I would have loved to have boarded on time. As it turns out, I was on time - but my flight was not. There is a delay of a full hour and 10 minutes. PEACHY!

I went back towards the eating area and grabbed a bite to eat. I might as well as well make my tummy happy.
I often thought that I would enjoy a job where I got to travel often. I think I am now changing my mind. My flight has been delayed three times now for a delay now of two hours. The scary thing is that a flight was just announced to be canceled. Apparently there will be no more flights to Dallas tonight because of bad thunderstorm weather in the area. Knowing that my flight is headed west I am a bit scared and fear that my flight might also be cancelled or delayed even further. I am sure I rather not depart at all if the route will be too risky. God knows I rather get there late than never.

The good thing I guess is that there is a crew from the gate I am scheduled to leave from. They seem very busy but no cancellations as of yet. Another positive I suppose is that I live here. Apparently all the nearby hotels are booked and thus the airport is setting up cots in one of the gates for the stranded passengers. It's strange to see that the Chicago sky has cleared and is rather fair. We however cannot depart. Yeah I don't think I could do this on a regular basis. I don't like sleeping and believe it to be unproductive, this is much worse. I have half an hour before departing on the last updated time, and now have to go to the washroom. I debate whether to wait it out or head over and risk losing my seat that has the adjacent outlet, which took me a while to snag.

As I see many people lying down near me and others lounging around trying to get comfortable I wish I had dressed down as well and wore my flip-flops. It is true what they say - Americans are the sloppiest looking travelers but there is a reason for the madness, and what is a better excuse than being comfortable. American's are known for the life of comfort, why do you think there is such a high rate of obesity throughout the nation? People are comfortable sitting on their fat asses and not doing anything but getting more comfortable and gaining weight while they do so.

After only sleeping three and a half hour last night I am ready to fall asleep in the middle of this terminal. I think I may knock out for the entire flight. I will at least try, that is if I can board tonight.

Woohoo 6:44 and they are now boarding!!!
It is 10:20 pm I am finally aboard my flight heading towards San Jose.

Drafting A Floorplan For My New Home

I'm such a nerd I know it. I few of my friends asked me for updates on the home hunt and pictures of the place I decided to purchase. I took it a step farther and not only provided a few pictures of the listed home I also created a mini site showing the floor plan I created for myself. I actually spent a few hours Saturday figuring out how I would lay out my furniture. ValueCity Furniture Store has a nifty little java app that lets you select various furniture and move it around your specific room measurements. After creating my floor plan I layered over the room decor and gave my friends the link to view my nerdy creation. Now that that the closing date is locked I don't think I can jinx anything and am glad to share with you the details. - Check it out, what do you think of my Home Potential?

Home Potential

I'm addicted to HGTV & DIY Network! With the purchase of my new home I have found myself watching many programs dedicated to home renovation, decoration and even staging for selling. I love seeing the design ideas for architecture as well as room decoration that various designers come up with. I'm even watching a show now that teaches viewers about prevention from many home threats - moisture, storm, rodents, safety, insulation the list goes on and on. I love thinking of the possibilities for my new place.

Speaking if which the second deal is coming along. I've placed an offer on another house and was accepted. Inspection was completed next week and we start negotiations. I hope this deal goes through better than the other. I'm actually glad the other one didn't work out. Things truly happen for a reason, I am more happy now with my second choice.

Happy Mother's Day

Congratulations to all moms today! I celebrated mother's day with my mom this past Thursday. In Mexico mother's day is on May 10th and my mother prefers to celebrate that day. I took the day off work and enjoyed a day of pampering and shopping with my mom. Today I'm not sure what I'll do, maybe celebrate it with my sister and her family. I am feeling a bit sick and perhaps will just stay in. I think the cold weather and being out Friday night made me come down with a cold - boohoo!

In Front of the Chicago Theater During Looptopia

Last night was fun, cold but entertaining, After a long day of work my friend Lidia and I met up around 7pm and headed towards the Looptopia designated spots. It was interesting to see outdoor performances. I really enjoyed seeing many people out and about walking through the downtown streets long after business hours. That is something that I never understood from out main city area. Of course it didn't compare to New York, Paris or Mexico late night downtown traffic, but at least it was a step in that direction. I am a truly a city girl and want that for my city.

I didn't stay till the 5am end mark, we met a few additional friends for a late dinner and then I left shortly before midnight. From what I heard toward the late-late post midnight hours things got a bit rowdy and perhaps that city wasn't as well prepared. That surprised me knowing that many more students live in the loop, law enforcement should have known better.

The Home Search Continues

I was very disappointed to have to let go of the home I had made an offer on. Things were going pretty well, the home inspection found a few items I wanted to negotiate with, but nothing major that would make me want to walk away from the deal. A few days later however I received notice that the second appraisal was not coming in to the figure it needed to be. It was actually more that 15K difference, and I was not up to paying that much difference.

I'm a firm believer that things happen for a reason and after looking through more homes I think I might have found a better home to call my own.

Chicago Immigration Reform Protest March - May 1 2007

Thousands crowded the streets again today in what seemed the largest protest for immigration to date. As thousands marched and cheered loudly for change, law enforcement was readily available marching beside them.

This year I wasn't able to take the day off to march along. I did however break away from the office for a bit and captured this brief video.

The NATIONAL WHITE RIBBON CAMPAIGN for DIALOGUE

is a call for prayer,reflection, and dialogue
to advance a constructive debate on immigration reform in the United States.

If there is consensus on any one element of the nation’s difficult debate on immigration, it is that our nation’s immigration system is broken and badly in need of reform. It is also clear that, in this nation of immigrants, this debate is challenging, complex, and often deeply emotional. Reasonable people can and do differ in their views on the best way to reform our immigration laws; however, it is also true that the nation is best served by a debate in which these views can be brought forward in a civil, respectful manner.

We wear white ribbons to show our strong support for the goal of achieving a thoughtful, rational, and respectful debate on the complex issue of immigration reform which leads the country toward solutions rather than further division and frustration. We deplore the use of violence, intimidation, threats, and the spread of fear, hatred, and divisiveness as tools and tactics on immigration or any issue. We encourage others to join the White Ribbon Campaign as a demonstration of the value of reflection and thoughtful dialogue as a way to advance this debate in a manner that strengthens our country, rejects fear and hate, and helps Americans arrive at solutions to complex problems.

The Offer Is In

It's getting closer!!! I can't believe it, I think I found my new home. I submitted an offer and now we wait. The place is exactly what I was looking for. The neighborhood seems very nice, still very close to the expressway and a few minutes driving distance from my current place. It sits however in a different suburb, unfortunately not with a great reputation (Cicero). It is in the very end of it's limits closer to Stickney but in a nice very well kept neighborhood.

If the offer is accepted I may have closing before June! It is definitely earlier than I wanted. Oh well I hope all works out, what's meant to happen will happen. I hope it happens to be to my liking.

Good Times

I've truly enjoyed this past week. I think time has been progressing positively. I am feeling more involved and knowledgeable in all aspects of my life, personal and professional. I must admit that I have cut down a bit on the volunteering and made time to still go out and balance my work life. I am no longer feeling as sick as I have been practically all year. I still have a bit of the sniffles and a nagging cough here and there, but it's getting better day by day. This week was a bit hectic, with a couple highlights throughout the week. This Thursday I went to schubas to see a gig from one of my favorite inde performers. Ernie Halter as usual rocked. Along with him Leigh Nash and Tyrone Wells performed as well. I was truly impressed with Tyrone's performance and voice. Check out a short clip below of a Mary J Blige cover. I took a few more however they were too long to post on youtube.

Happy Easter

Don't worry I didn't dress up my dog like this. I found this picture through Google, I don't think any animals were harmed in the making of this picture. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same thing about the many chocolate bunnies.

Choosing The Right Home

I'm off to look at properties again today. This is the year I decided to move again. My plan was to move out of the home I own with my sister in late July. I like giving myself birthday gifts and this was to be a big one. I may have started the property search too early. I've already found a few very strong potentials. There are a few town homes I fell in love with, however I opted not to go forward with them because they are father away from the city. I've narrowed down my search to the be within the current area that I live in now or 10 minutes closer into the city.

I haven't decided yet what type of home to get though. I have seen a few condos packed with state of the art appliances, hardwood floors, granite tops, skylights, etc. I think I am leaning more towards town homes though. I prefer having more space and possibly a yard for Charlie to run through and a garage for my car. Another deciding factor for me is the investment possibility.

Today's plan is to see town homes, condos and small houses. I am truly enjoying just seeing the possibilities. The way it's going though I think I may move sooner than I thought. I wonder what I will end up with.

I Might Have Bronchitis

Woe is me with my sicky-ness. It bothers me that this bug has taken quite an affection to me and does not let me be. It left me for a good two weeks and I thought I was finally rid of it. This stalker virus though just teased me with health and sanity. It came back again un-welcomed and I''m tired of it, I desperately try to kill it. I am sick and tired of feeling sick and tired! It truly is a love hate relationship. It loves me dearly and keeps coming back. I loathe and despise it and wish it never returns.

The Brain Test

What Your Brain Says About How You Think and Learn
Your brain is divided into two hemispheres, the right and the left. Just as you favor your left or right hand, you also favor the right or left hemisphere of your brain. The left hemisphere interprets details and reasoning, while the right hemisphere interprets information through visual or creative cues.

Find out which side of your brain you favor, and how to train your weaker brain hemisphere to process information better and faster. Take the brain test!

Happy St. Patrick's Weekend!

I missed posting the "Happy St. Patrick's Day" wish yesterday, but the good thing is that the partying continues through the weekend. It truly has been a festive weekend with the Irish green spirit and March Madness celebrations in many Chicago pubs. I've been out everyday since Thursday, not that happy seeing my teams lose though. I have two brackets formed, but Duke and Illinois loses has caused me to lose many points.

This morning I caught a few more basketball games and missed the parade. I was determined to at least catch some pictures of the green river, and fortunately made it out. As I drove through the loop area it was clear that MANY people had taken advantage of the sunny weather and ventured out. The pubs were packed and a few had lines forming outside. Cheers!

Chicago Skyline View

I love this city!

You know how sometimes people tell you to take time to smell the roses? Well I say take time to view the city - it can be very pretty.

This is a view from one of the corners from the Mid-Day Club located inside Chase Tower, 56th FL.

March Madness - My Bracket Picks

It's that time of the year again folks! It's time to choose your teams and pick your 'winners' and fill out your brackets. The Chicago Tribune has a neat little flash app that makes it very easy to make your selections. Choose your 2007 NCAA men's basketball championship brackets.

Go ahead study the stats, spin the bottle, close your eyes and pick via "eeni-meeni-minee-moe". Whatever your strategy make your picks. For the first time ever, I am publishing my choices. Now that I am, I know I will be jinxing myself - so don't make fun of my choices. I obviously gave into my favorites (Illinois & Duke). I'm not sure they will win as I jotted them to do so in my predictions. Go ahead click on my image and enlarge the picture to see my choices. Feel free to copy mines as you select yours - Good Luck!

Vista Has Won Me Over

I am really digging Windows Vista! If it wasn't for the fact that Vista came pre-installed with my new PC, I would not have tried the new Operating System on my own. I usually tend to wait several months even maybe a year before installing any new OS on my PC, to ensure all the major bugs and weird kinks are discovered and fixed. I set up my new HP desktop this weekend and clicked around and quickly fell in love. Granted I packed my machine with extra RAM and upgraded the processor, but the speed is wonderful. The interface itself is very user friendly and rather 'cool'! The new look is refreshing and very interactive. The Vista sidebar includes a clock displaying time, series of pictures I can skim through, top RSS headlines. I must humbly admit I am a fan, much to my many previous reservations. Windows Media player fits nicely on the task bar. The security may become a bit tiresome, because of how frequently you are asked whether to allow a download plug-in or app. You can refine your settings, but I prefer being asked. I don't usually say this but - Go get this Microsoft software! (Note: Your computer must meet the minimum system requirements.) Below is a screenshot of my current desktop.

It Will Be A While Before I Donate Blood Again

I am feeling so very good right now. It does not compared to the horrid feelings and anxiety I had this morning. I went in for my scheduled appointment to donate blood at a Life Source blood bank. I had donated blood a couple months before and all went well. This time however the experience was completely different. My body reacted very strangely compared to last time. I think I started feeling dizzy after only the first pint. My heart then felt to start to race and pounded heavily. I notified the nurse and she raised my chair back and elevated my feet. It didn't seem to help and I had them stop pulling more blood from me. The nurses placed a few ice packs on me and I took deep breaths so I wouldn't feel as nauseous as I felt. A couple of minutes after I seemed to feel a bit better. They had me sit up right slowly, but after few seconds I had to go back down again.

After 10 minutes I thought I felt OK to sit upright again. I just felt a little nauseous but the dizziness was no more. I walked to the snack table and began to drink some juice when I felt the lightheadedness come back once more. I told the volunteer who then called the nurses. Within a few seconds I was in vertigo! They say I might have actually passed out for a few seconds. I remember feeling my heart racing even faster than before and I remember saying "make it stop, make it stop!" I might have been shouting that. Everything darkened and I saw blurry shadows, the voices echoed and I heard them farther and farther away. My fingers began to clench and tingle. I recall a girl being amazed and tried to make me laugh. She mentioned that she heard how it felt and that I should just let myself go and embrace it. I immediately responded "No!" it felt horrible. I vaguely remember around four people holding me up with ice packs all over. I think everything was pitch black for a few seconds and slowly my vision began to come back. I still felt dizzy, nauseous, numb and out of breath. Again I had to lay down this time for several more minutes with ice packs all over.

I had to call my sister to pick me up. As I left I thanked everyone for taking care of me. They wished me well and hoped that the experience would not prevent me from making a donation in the future. It truly won't, it will just be a long while before I do.

Blogging fame

Out of the blue I received an email inviting me to attend a Maxim/Nautica Jeans launch party at a hip local night club. I've received other club invites from various promoters, after all I'm still a club head. Yes you might not have guessed it, but I love dancing and dance music. I even have trance music playing on my myspace background.

I digress, what makes this invite special is the invitation to take pictures and then blog about it on my Chicago photos blog. That is after all how this agency found me. They probably Googled Chicago photos or something and found my blog. I am looking forward to attending the event and taking pictures, however one big problem I am sick - AGAIN. I can't let this cold keep me down, there have been a few glitches pertaining to this party. I overcame a huge obstacle, my camera is still in the shop. Thankfully I was able to borrow one. I didn't want to go by myself. Almost all my friends all have plans, some of which I can to bail out on as well. I found received the email invitation this past Monday but didn't receive the VIP info& passes until today! It almost feels like it isn't meant to be. We'll see how it goes, pics to come hopefully this weekend.

Seeking Sponsors

I am raising money for Junior Achievement of Chicago and would really welcome your support. Please take a moment to visit my online fundraising page and make a donation. It's really easy - you can donate by debit or credit card and receive a record of your donation. Please visit my page and donate now: www.firstgiving.com/HSBC_N2STeam

Please join me in supporting Junior Achievement of Chicago and a fabulous cause!

Thanks for your support!

Chicago Elections 2007

Congratulations to the elected officials: Mayor - Richard Daley Clerk - Miguel Del Valle 1st Ward - Manuel "Manny" Flores 12th Ward - George Cardenas 22nd Ward - Ricardo Muñoz 25th Ward - Daniel "Danny" Solis 26th Ward - Billy Ocasio 30th Ward - Ariel Reboyras 31st Ward - Ray Suarez 42nd Ward - Brendan Reilly

Source: ChicagoTribune.com

Mayor Daley win his 6th term as the Chicago City Mayor. Voters decided to forgive or forget or deny corruption scandals. Forget the Box war veto! No - I am not saying that at all. I did not forget but I made a choice. I voted for Daley again because I am still seeing progress in Chicago. I am seeing beauty and increase tourism, which in turn brings in money. You have to consider all the pros and cons and weigh in the better benefit.

Post Oscars

My opinion of the Oscars last night was average. I must admit that last night I did not pay 100% of attention, I was at home updating myspace and babysitting at the same time. I think Ellen did a pretty good job, although the Ellen I've seen is much more hilarious. A night full of surprises, my jaw literally dropped as they announce Jennifer Hudson as the winner for best supporting actress. Not a bad welcoming gift from the academy for this newbie actor huh? Through out it all, acceptance speech and post interviews she seem to take it in very well, as if she was part of the business for many years prior. I've heard her refer to herself in the third person in other interviews from winning a Golden Globe. I hope this sudden success doesn't all go to her head.

Goodbye My Vaio

The time has come to say goodbye to my favorite PC. I've tried to upgrade my computer every two years. My current PC is a Sony Vaio and it has been my favorite so far. It has been actually four years that I've had it. There was a few ups and downs these past years, but my trusty computer has hung on with me. Granted I've added so much into it (RAM, new DVD drive, TV output card and more). I've reformatted the drive twice after very bad crashes and did lose very dear photograph memories, that being said I still preferred it over other brands I've had in the past. I've owned an apple, Hewlett Packard, Compaq and have worked with Mac, Dell, Gateway, IBM and eMachines.

This Friday I committed to let my Vaio go. It will fine a new home with a family friend. Today I purchased my new PC - an HP. It should arrive in 2-3 weeks. I costumed ordered what to include, it will be a pimped out PC. I will have to start my backup to transfer to the new PC. I am looking forward to play with the new one, but transfering all my apps and files.

Ash Wednesday

Lent season started today and like many other times before I have opted to give up something during this time. I am giving up soda this year. NOT JUST COKE all carbonated SUGAR FILLED SODA! Let me tell you - THIS IS HUGE for me. I love my Coca Cola, cherry Coke, Pepsi and Sprite. I have at least a glass a day (12oz) and many days where I consume more than that. I have given up Coke during lent before, but I would sometimes substitute a Sprite here and there. This time there will be only a very limited amount of options. Water, milk, juice(although not too much), ice tea, tea, coffee (not too much) and liquor are my only beverage choices. Wish me luck!

Web 2.0 Impact Surprised Me

I can admit where I was wrong. I've been reading up on my web 2.0 technology blogs and deemed that it is just interesting information to know for my own interest. I assumed that the industry I am in was very traditional and had no dire need implement web 2.0 technologies, I went as far as to believe that my industry wasn't even affected that much and it was too early to look for any trends.

After reading a few trade articles and blogs I stand corrected. It still holds true that the degree of web 2.0 technology is not in forefront as other online sites, however the web 2.0 design is still being followed. I read a review for a competitor website redesign and was surprised to see that the author noted the use of web 2.0 colors and button structure. Thinking in terms of the look and feel for web 2.0 does make sense! In the age of another boom of new online sites, users are becoming accustomed to the new trend of design. Orange buttons and larger fonts! When other sites don't update their design they truly look dated and out of touch.

My industry may not have the dire need to seek web 2.0 technology - although I now believe that we have a need to keep abreast of the changes and seek opportunities, there is a dire need to implement web 2.0 design.

My New Gadget

I did it again, I purchased another camera! The HP Photosmart R967 arrived today. - WOohoo! I was actually surprised how quickly it arrived. I placed the order in this past Tuesday and three days later, via standard delivery, I received it at my office. Fortunately, I am able to get a pretty decent discount from work for HP products and decided to take advantage of it. My new camera seems like a pretty sweet piece of machinery and I've obtained it at a great price. I am excited to use it soon. My SLR is still in the shop with more that four weeks to go. I messed up the zoom function from my other point and shoot camera and I quickly used that excuse to seek to buy a new one. I figured it was time anyway. The technology in digital cameras these days keep improving and similar to computers I find it worth while to upgrade every two years.

Happy Valentine's Day 2007

I sent a "HAPPY V-DAY" text message to a few of my loved ones today - friends & family included. I hope you don't let this Hallmark holiday force you to only wish happy valentine's day to your significant other. Valentine's day is supposedly a day of love and while you obviously have love towards your sweetie I'm sure you have love towards friends and family as well. So in the spirit of love Happy Valentine's Day!

For all you somewhat sour singles here is something for you...

Weather Blues

I can't believe my luck! I just recovered from a sore throat this weekend and tonight I know I am sick again. My nose feels stuffy, my eyes are irritated and I keep sneezing. YUCK!

I blame the snow, I had to walk through it a couple times through out the day today. I bundled up with a scarf, hat, gloves and long coat, but the wind still managed to blow the snow directly on my face. Even as I waited for the train this evening the snow from swirled all around. It looks pretty but I am feeling hatred towards it right now.

Official Presidentail Bid - Time For Change

Last night I considered going to the Barack Omama rally. The hopeful presidential candidate would announce his candidacy today at UIC campus. I knew that there would be a large crowd and honestly I did not want to face the cold. I still feel a bit sick and although I would have loved to hear him live and take many pictures, I opted to view his speech online, Sure enough MSNBC has the motivating speech at it's entirety.

As I was viewing it I kept asking myself how? Yes the government is in desperate need of changes but HOW can they be changed?

I remembered a conversation I had last month, after signing up to volunteer for another year at the USHLI conference. This year I worked with a new organizer rep, and so asked him a few questions to get to know him better. He informed me that worked at the last senate campaign race. I don't know why assumed that he worked on the Obama campaign. He quickly said no, and asked what my opinion was of Obama. I said I was a fan and as soon as I did he quickly reminded me that Barack signed in favor of the immigrant reform Bill that the republicans tried to push through last year. If you recall this bill included constructing a wall at the US/Mexico border, placing illegal immigrants in criminal status and other items I blogged about before. I believed that bill to be too harsh and a waste of funding. I agree that a better solution needs to be conceived, but that proposition was not the answer.

Nevertheless, I am inspired after hearing Obama speak. He has a knack of raising hope for a better future. Today I tried not to be blinded and probably the reason why I ask for a strategy plan that will attain those reforms that Obama seeks. I know it is too early to request such details, and so I look forward to the presidential debates. For now all the candidates have my attention.

Celi Checking In

Where the heck have I been? I took a look and my blog dashboard and am disappointed to see how little I have written. I'll admit it, I've been lazy to write, even copy and paste funny clippings that are usually sent to me. My picture posting has also suffered from the lack of motivation. It could be the cold - I'm actually sick right now because of it. I even called off work - yep you know I have to be sick if I actually call off.    Anyway...

I finally took my camera to be repaired. I had been using the manual setting for over three months now. The lens auto focused suddenly stopped working. Also all my pictures would come out very dark after downloading to the computer. I had to edit every single picture to make it look well. That's actually probably why I hadn't posted many pictures. I hated the editing process. My phone camera has come in handy and is the main one that Flickr account host pictures of lately. The only problem is that Wolf Camera is in it's busy season and will not have my trusty companion ready for over six weeks!! I will have to resort to my smaller-cheaper point and shoot cameras, or find another hobby to plauate me in the mean time.

I'm considering delving into video creation/editing and publishing. With the craze of YouTube and am envious and want make my own contributions. I have a few videos on Google, but those are small short snippets taken from my phone. Who knows maybe my hobby could bring me fame, similar to my friend Yvonne with her Nap Snapper News airing on NBC. Check out her controversial pics at - www.sleepyurbanite.com. Curious? See NBC5's news video - 'Nap Snapper' Catches CTA Snoozers.

Till next time (hopefully soon) - stay warm.

Chicago Art Institute - Lions in Bear Gear

Are you excited? I am! Today is the day, showtime is today. Superbowl sunday arrives and many Chicagoans like myself will watch attentively among our friends and family supporting our home team. The city has shown it's support as well by decorating the Chicago Art Institute lions, Dinasaur Sue from the Field Museum, other monuments I'm sure I've missed.

Even the Chicago skyline vividly supports the Chicago Bears with its many lights. Yesterday I bared (bear'd?) the frigid cold of the lakefront knowing that as soon as the sun would set, the skyline lights would display the good wishes towards the Chicgao Bears. The championship is only a few hours away, lets hope for the best!

The 2007 New Work Rules...

Received from e-mail forward - quite funny...
Dress Code
It is advised that you come to work dressed according to your salary. If we see you wearing new clothes , we assume you are doing well financially and therefore do not need a raise. If you dress poorly, you need to learn to manage your money better, so that you buy nicer clothes, and therefore you do not need a raise. If you dress just right, you are right where you need to be and therefore you do not need a raise.

Sick Days
We will no longer accept a doctor's statement as proof of sickness. If you are able to go to the doctor, you are able to come to work.

Personal Days
Each employee will receive 104 personal days a year. They are called Saturday & Sunday.

Toilet Use
Entirely too much time is being spent in the toilet. There is now a strict three-minute time limit in the stalls. At the end of three minutes, an alarm will sound, the toilet paper roll will retract, the stall door will open, and a picture will be taken. After your second offence, your picture will be posted on the company bulletin board under the "Chronic Offenders category". Anyone caught smiling in the picture will be sanctioned under the company's mental health policy.

Lunch Break
Skinny people get 30 minutes for lunch, as they need to eat more, so that they can look healthy. Normal size people get 15 minutes for lunch to get a balanced meal to maintain their average figure. Chubby people get 5 minutes for lunch, because that's all the time needed to drink a Slim-Fast.

Thank you for your loyalty to our company. We are here to provide a positive employment experience. Therefore, all questions, comments, concerns, complaints, frustrations, irritations, aggravations, insinuations, allegations, accusations, contemplations, consternation and input should be directed elsewhere.

Your Management Team

What a great year!

It took longer than I had planned, but I was finally able to set an hour aside to select my favorite pictures from 2006. It's a good thing that Flickr has the feature to pull pictures from a date range of when they were taken. Two weeks later, here are my top 100. Feel free to check out my 2006 year review in pictures! As always Chicago is featured, my trip to Spain gave me many inspirational moments to snap away and who could forget the immigration reform marches. I hope you enjoy
Araceli Arroyo Pictures 2006 Year Review

Happy New Year - 2007

I am off to celebrate the welcoming of the new year with the family. Before I do I wanted to wish you all the best and hopefully some good fortune will come back my way in return. I look back at 2006 and am glad that I was able to keep some resolutions. Of course not all were completed but I am still on track. This coming year I plan to maintain on the right course and continue to have fun along the way. I never know where the road will take me but I plan to take notice of all my stops and enjoy them. After all that is what living life is about, enjoying the good times with everyone and supporting each other through the not so great ones with your friends and family. To all my friends and family - cheers to you and Happy New Year!

Saddam Hussein Executed

Saddam Hussein struggled briefly after American military guards handed him over to Iraqi executioners before dawn Saturday. But as his final moments approached and masked executioners slipped a black cloth and noose around his neck, he grew calm.

In a final moment of defiance, he refused a hood to cover his eyes. Hours after Saddam faced the same fate he was accused of inflicting on countless thousands during a quarter-century of ruthless power, Iraqi state television showed grainy video of what it said was his body, the head uncovered and the neck twisted at a sharp angle. | source: MSNBC

There is also video included in the report. I don't feel like watching it though. The description is graphic enough, I don't feel the need to see the video footage, although there is a small part of me that is curious. After hearing the verdict I assumed Saddam would be terminate via injection. I guess it's fitting to opt for the barbaric method he was accused for having many others go through. I am against the death penalty and feel humanity has no right to decide who shall like and who dies. Punishment is deserved and was desired it's just sad to see this in today's day and age.

Merry Christmas!

I know it's a bit late to post but the holiday season is not over yet! Things have been crazy around the home front with all the gift buying and party planning, but fortunately the party event is over! The New Years Eve party will not be at our house and for once I'm glad. I love my family and all but boy is there a lot of work! Feel free to view a few more pics of me and the family. I hope all of you are spending your time with loved ones and are merry as well.

A White-tailed Deer

My intention was to go to the gym and hop on the treadmill for 30 mins and then another thirty on the eliptical machine. Due to the holiday the gym closed early and I didn't get to go in. I didn't want to lose my motivation and decided to go for a jog at a nearby forest preserve that I have never been through. Normally my hikes are with Charlie in Riverside. The one I went to was a bit more west in Countryside. I might be coming back to this one soon, during my jog a deer crossed my path. He was a cute guy, but a bit bigger than it seems from this picture. Next thing a hear are a bit more footsteps and then I spot three more! It was a family, who I'm sure were more scared of me than I was of them. They kept their distance but I was glad I had my phone and was able to get a few shots.

Christmas Shopping

I faced my fears and headed to the stores today. I will have a few more guests coming over to the house tomorrow and have to get gifts for them as well as a few other items for the party. To my surprise the crowds and lines were not that bad at all. This has been the case for all of our Christmas shopping outings this year I'm not sure if we are lucky, picked great hours to go shopping or what? I keep thinking that perhaps the spending is not as high as the news reporters say, people are more than likely shopping on line more. Whatever the case I am glad I am finally DONE! Now I have to worry about gift wrapping.

Santa Swing E-card

The funny Christmas e-cards have arrived. I received one today, though parental permission may be required if you are a young viewer. Check out Santa's Grotto in "Spin around the North Pole" in this Santa Swing E-card

Charlie Gets A Buzz-Cut

Just in case you were curious, I did end up giving my lil' pooch a fur trim this weekend. I think it took over an hour but Charles got a full cut. I trimmed his body fur, beard and even tail. He seemed to like it he didn't try to run away at all during the whole process. In the past he use to not let the trimmer get close to his ears, this time around he had no objections. Below are some before and after shots - there are more on flickr.

What To Do Today?

I've had four days of rest and I am bored. I've cleaned and have organized my home. I've edited and posted many pictures, heck I even went jogging last night. All things I am really glad I did. I just always have to keep busy and having four days away from the office or not traveling is causing me to be a bit restless. Normally I would log into my work e-mail and work a bit. This weekend I am not able to for the simple fact that I resigned and have been cut off the network. I guess I should finally give Charlie the fur trim he desperately needs and I have been to lazy to give.

It's such a beautiful day I might go for another jog with sir Charles in a few as well. It has actually been over a month since I went to our favorite hiking spot the Des Plaines river in Riverside, which is only 15 driving minutes away. I'm supposed to go see a movie with Carson later. The new James Bond movie is supposed to be pretty good. That reminds me I haven't been going to the movie theater as often. Now that the cold weather is coming that is pretty much the main thing to do for fun - aside from shopping of course.

That's enough thinking about what to do, I'm off to do something!

Another Real Black Friday

This year I did not prepare to wake up before the crack of dawn to attempt to get a hold of massive sales from the many retailers, which is now very commonly known as black Friday. I thought about it last night but didn't feel in the mood to wait in long lines and deal with pushy people. The official beginning of Christmas shopping season, has increasingly become chaotic year after year. Today the New York Times Headline reads...

Attention, Holiday Shoppers: We Have Fisticuffs in Aisle 2...
"Customers behaved badly across the country yesterday,
but the mayhem can be traced in part to an escalating battle among retailers to be the first to open their doors and offer the steepest must-have deals.
Many merchants angered shoppers by trumpeting huge discounts like $70 portable DVD players and $600 flat-screen televisions only to announce they were sold out moments after they opened. The fact that so many people were sleep-deprived probably didn't help."

I rather pay a few bucks more this year and maybe even shop online. I think it's actually quite sad that such trivial priorities cause such behavior in the US while half way across the world there has been substantial life loss. Sunni insurgents killed 215 people in BaghdadÂ?s main Shia district. I am saddened as I read another article from Bloomberg.com...

A car bombing killed at least 22 people in the northern Iraqi city of Tal Afar today as the death toll climbed to 202 from yesterday's explosions in Baghdad, the deadliest coordinated attacks since the U.S.-led invasion of March 2003. About 250 people were wounded.

Continua Los Exitos Para La Oreja

Acabo de leer mas noticias sobre la oreja, y es por eso que no me queda mas que distinguir este no solamente la semana de exito para la Oreja De Van Gogh pero todo el año. Sin duda alguna me comprare un regalito para esta navidad. La Argentinidad... Al Palo reporta que LODVG reedita ‘Guapa’ con 12 temas inéditos...

Antes de terminar el año, La Oreja de Van Gogh quiere regalar a sus fans un nuevo álbum, Más guapa, un doble CD que contiene además de las canciones de Guapa, 12 nuevos temas y versiones diferentes de los cortes ya conocidos del último disco. La banda donostiarra no ha querido dejar en el cajón de los recuerdos el resultado del trabajo de los últimos meses y por ello ha decidido editar las nuevas canciones en un disco que saldrá a la venta el próximo 5 de diciembre. Amaia Montero y los suyos atraviesan uno de sus mejores momentos. Acaban de regresar de una gira de 13 conciertos en Estados Unidos y han recibido el Grammy Latino 2006 al Mejor Álbum Pop. Además, han añadido nuevos directos a la gira española. La próxima actuación tendrá lugar el 1 de diciembre en el Velódromo de Anoeta de San Sebastián.

LOS DOCE NUEVOS TEMAS DE MÁS GUAPA
1. En mi lado del sofá
2. Nuestro mundo
3. Amores dormidos
4. Canción desesperada
5. Coronel
6. La paz de tus ojos
7. Nube
8. Despacio
9. Déjate llevar
10. Aquella ingrata
11. El árbol
12. Escalera a la luna

Happy Thanksgiving

I am thankful for my family, friends and life. Give your close ones a hug and share a hug with me the next time I see you.

La Oreja De Van Gogh Chicago Concert

LODVG came to rock out at the Vic last night and fufilled my high expectations. Granted I am biased towards this band, which is my favorite Spanish or English. The crowd jumped along with Amaia, the band's lead singer, and sang through many popular songs. I was scared that I wouldn't be able to get a good view, considering were my friends and I were in line as we waited for the doors from the Vic theater to open. Fortunately we found a spot over the first step, which was only a few feet from the stage.

I remember looking around me and absorbing the moment. I have to tell you it is the best feeling to be at a concert for a group you enjoy and who are also at their peak. I want to fly to their next tour city now! This concert will be remembered as one of my happy moments.

La Oreja canto casi todos sus nuevos exitos de su disco reciente - Guapa, pero tambien emociono el publico cantando sus mejores classicos, como 'Rosas'. Amaia pego todas sus notas comprovando su qualidad como cantante. Me asombre como fue tan sureal y parecido a su DVD de un concierto que tuvieron hace años en Madrid. Disfrute ahora ser parte de un gran concierto como fue el de a noche. Todavia sueño con volver a verlos, pero me encantariar verlos en su pais de España.

Thanks to a recent myspace friend here is a clip of the concert. After a couple minutes of screams from the crowd pleading for an encore, LODVG came back to play two additional songs. Shown in this clip is one of their most successful singles - "Rosas".

Seven Years Of Service

I packed the last seven years of my office belongings into a box today. I left a few items behind but threw out a substantial amount of knick-knacks, papers, books, files etc. It has been a bit hard to realize that I will no longer see the same people I had come accustomed to see on a daily basis. I’ve seen many people come and go during my tenure and it feels funny to be one of them now. Everyone has been great and told me how much they will miss me. All are supportive and have warm wishes, I'll miss them as well. I have never published where I work, there is no need to do so now. Tomorrow is my last day with the company – I look forward to a new beginning with my new employer.

My New Nephew

My sister finally delivered her second baby - five days after his due date. I left work a bit early, picked my mom and headed towards the hospital this evening. Due to traffic and crappy weather we didn't get there till seven pm. Visiting hours ended at eight in the evening but we decided to stick around until they kicked us out. The nurses hadn't brought the baby by and we were eager to see him.

I'm glad we stuck around, a few minutes before the time I had designated to wait till my little nephew was brought in. A few minutes after that my camera phone was already aiming at the cute kid :)

Where's The Baby???

I'm excited to welcome the new addition to our family the only problem is that he's not here yet. My sister's due date was yesterday and now we are all on high alert for that time to come. I feel bad for my poor sister though, everyone keeps calling asking if she has had the baby yet. It seems this baby is very comfortable in his mom's womb and hasn't shown any signs of wanting to come out. Perhaps he wants to wait until his room was completed. My sister changed the carpeting in Julian's room and had to wait for the installation this weekend. I'm not sure if she is going to stick with the name she and her hubby were thinking about. So far I've just been calling him peanut. We are going shopping later, I think I'll get peanut a welcome home gift - Let the spoiling begin!!

I missed the Latin Grammys

Last night my friend 'L' and I had rsvp'd to a Latin Grammy award ceremony party. Unfortunately it seems the turn out was so great that the viewing section was filled to capacity. We were sent to the upper section of Bravo's Tapa's bar to await access. Unfortunately I only had an hour to spare, since I had accepted another invitation to go to a comedy show clear across town. AT least we made the best of it and ordered and enjoyed some delicious tapas and wine.

I was looking forward to see if my favorite band - La Oreja De VanGogh (LODVG) won any of their three nominations. I was waiting for my friend when I overheard one of the categories come up and heard that LODVG won for best pop album by duo or group. Congrats! I can't wait to see them live. I've already purchased my tickets for their upcoming concert in three weeks.

Unfortunately I did miss many performances and presentations, but I caught some highlights through the Grammy website and highlights on MTV3. It seems it was Shakira's night she won Album Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Record Of The Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Album. I hope the replay the entire show this weekend. I had fun last night anyway, the comedians at Riddlers were great and I'm glad I went.