Barack Obama On LinkedIn

I have to give kudos to Barack Obama's campaign staff. They have done a good job at tapping into all the major social networking sites. Barack is on Myspace, Facebook, YouTube as well as Digg.com. I know the other presidential candidates also have profiles on some of these sites, but I don't think they have done as an effective job promoting their profiles as Obama. Barack is clearly the leader in supporter count on Facebook. Today I received an invite to add Obama to my LinkedIn network.

LinkedIn.com is an online social network of, 'more than 13 million experienced professionals from around the world, representing 150 industries.' I've been a member for a while now and had not come across any other politician campaign. I have not decided who to vote for yet, even though I am a Barack Obama fan as you might know from previous posts. I will finally admit - I am a swing voter. I like to know my candidates from both parties and make a decision based on the views of many issues from each candidate and factor many other items before making a decision. That being said I added Obama to my LinkedIn Profile and placed the badge promoting his campaign. Hey if I receive another invite from other politicians I may consider adding them as well. Again - kudos on marketing this campaign.

For those interested...
Join Barack's Official profile at www.linkedin.com/in/barackobama. If you are already a LinkedIn member, simply click on the "Obama'08" supporter badge to add a Barack Obama supporter badge to your LinkedIn profile -->

Happy Labor Day

Hope all you monkeys are enjoying your day off and are purposely trying not to be productive. I have a few items I need to take care of that I had procrastinating on, but other than that I am still recovering and enjoying my relaxing extended weekend. This day marks the end of summer for many, so I hope you take the time away and venture outdoors to enjoy the warm weather.

I had to cancel a few plans with friends I had this weekend. I am sad that I missed out on some of that fun but am glad to feel somewhat rejuvenated. Hopefully I can still capture some good sunlight and finally go out and take some pictures. It has been a very long time since I've had a photography outing and my cameras are feeling lonely.

U.S. Workers Are Most Productive - Is That A Good Thing?

The Associated Press reports that U.S. Workers are the most productive in world; Each Produces $63,885 of Wealth Per Year...

American workers stay longer in the office, at the factory or on the farm than their counterparts in Europe and most other rich nations, and they produce more per person over the year. They also get more done per hour than everyone but the Norwegians, according to a U.N. report released Monday, which said the United States 'leads the world in labor productivity.' The average U.S. worker produces $63,885 of wealth per year, more than their counterparts in all other countries, the International Labor Organization said in its report.

We may be more productive, but how does that compare to our health? What is the projected life span of employees in other nations and how does the work/life balance compare to that of Americans? How does that also translate to happiness? I know it's a bit hypocrital of me, since I rather not sleep and do something more productive. I do however realize a need to balance life away from just labor.

Charlie Barks To Come Inside

I'm trying to teach my dog to bark at the door when he is ready to come in. Charlie is already trained to bark on command. He knows "speak" and also my sign-language for when I want him to bark. The transition now is going slow however. Everytime he comes to the door he just whines. He will only bark until I motion for him to do so.

Perhaps he needs a bit more practice. Perhaps I shouldn't call for him to come indoors and just wait for him to ask to come in. He loves being outside and is spending more and more time outdoors.

What the hell was I thinking?

I feel like I've been in a sterile room more than I should have been in such a short time. The fact of the matter is that I have. I have been very negligent with my doctor visits since switching employers and selecting my insurance. Two weeks ago I decided to get my act together and go for a regular checkup, which then followed routine exams just to make sure all was still as it should be. To my misfortune a filling came lose, and I decided to have that taken care of right away as well. That short visit to the dentist resulted in a follow up appointment for a root canal procedure.

That day was today! As you might have noticed in my previous post I had just recently visited the hospital lab for blood work. I feel as if I am falling apart. In the sense of total openness and since I'm sharing this info already, you should know that I have an ear infection as well! I think had I not made that first appointment to see my doctor none of these nuisances would have occured. Damn Murphy and his stupid law. I hope nothing else goes wrong. I wonder what my optometrist will tell me when I call to make an appointment to visit him?

Outrageous Hospital Costs

I went in to the hospital lab today to get a routine bloodwork run for me and had to register to access the lab. As I waited for my receipt I took notice of the hospital posted fees. Thank goodness I do not have to pay the full price of hospital fees. They are insanely high! These are just the general ones, eveything adds up.

Success After The "Sign Our Save Out Lake Petition"

A few weeks ago I posted a link for you to learn and hopefully sign a petition for BP Amoco not to dump pollutants into Lake Michigan....In just a few weeks, you and more than 50,000 other concerned citizens stood up for the Great Lakes by signing our online petition, telling BP to stop their plans to dump more toxic chemicals into Lake Michigan.

Clearly, BP heard the message.

On Thursday, CEO Bob Malone announced that BP was reversing its decision to increase dumping in Lake Michigan. This is a watershed moment for the Great Lakes and for all of us who have fought to protect and preserve Lake Michigan.

THANKS!

Play Fighting

Who says dogs and cats can't get along?

Photosynth Prototype

Not familiar with Photosyth? You have to see this video. Navigation looks very similar to iPhone. The adoption of photography and method to view is amazing. This is truly great technology...
With Photosynth you can:

Walk or fly through a scene to see photos from any angle.

See where pictures were taken in relation to one another.

Find similar photos to the one you're currently viewing.

Send a collection - or a particular view of one - to a friend.

Seamlessly zoom in or out of a photo whether it's megapixels or gigapixels in size.
Learn more at http://labs.live.com/photosynth/

No Trust

As I rode up the elevator to my floor I looked at the latest news headlines that display in a small monitor within the left elevator pane. One of the headlines noted another recall for toys from Mattel from a Chinese manufacturer, for the second time in two weeks. I couldn't help but to indulge in my conspiracy theory habits. I wondered if there could be a motive for the Toy company to place such negative focus on the eastern country? Perhaps they want to end contracts for cheaper labor elsewhere?

This time the recall was for concerns that children will swallow magnets attached to toys. There has been no injuries or illnesses reported by the "defective" toys. Could Mattel simply want to gain approval by placing a recall before the public raises an issue in an effort to prove they are "concerned"? Why take such a loss? I'm not buying into this just yet. I think there maybe a third party mixing up deals in the background to cause this. - Anyway just some insight into my curious mind.

The Jay Leno Photo Booth

These always make me laugh...

Daft Punk - Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger

I must give this kid credit. At first my thought was, "This girl can't dance. She's just jumping around all over the place." Imagine dancing like that at a club? First of all you know there would be no room. Second, people would think you are beginning to go into a seizure of some sort. I've been told to be a pretty good dancer, hey I'm still a club kid. I know I have rhythm but I don't think I would bop around like this. After watching the entire video I I fold. It makes sense and believe it goes together. If anything it's kinda funny and I like the song. Enjoy...

If interested see the latest sampled video from Kanye West - slower pace with typical Kanye twist. The Daft Punk lyrics (Four words) beat out Kanye's but his mixture sounds pretty damn good.
www.kanyewest.com/?content=video_stronger

I'm not a big fan of Kanye, but when I saw this video barely last week I loved it. Especially seeing Tokyo in the backdrop. Japan is high on my list of places that I plan to visit. Well done Mr. Hype Williams!

Sign the Save Our Lake Petition

The Chicago Park District continues to collect signatures for a petition which asks the Governor of Indiana, the USEPA, and BP North America to protect, not destruct, Lake Michigan. Go here to sign a petition online. Thank you!

PARK DISTRICT URGES PUBLIC TO HELP “SAVE OUR LAKE” FROM INDUSTRIAL SLUDGE
The Chicago Park District and the City of Chicago are urging concerned citizens to sign a petition to “Save Our Lake.” Click on a link below to sign one of these online Save Our Lake petitions: Senator Dick Durbin & Congressman Rahm Emanuel Congressman Mark Kirk Illinois Lt. Governor Pat Quinn Environment Illinois Sierra Club Click here for a hard copy of the petition. With the approved expansion of BP’s Whiting Refinery by way of state regulators circumventing environmental laws, a considerable amount of pollutants will be polluting Lake Michigan, the very source of Chicago’s fresh water. “The Chicago Park District works hard to manage our lakefront beaches and keep them clean for all Chicagoans and visitors to enjoy,” said Timothy J. Mitchell, Superintendent & CEO of the Chicago Park District.

“Clean, fresh water is an essential human necessity that we require to sustain a healthy lifestyle. We are urging concerned citizens to help by signing this petition that helps preserve and protect this valued natural resource, so that future generations can use and enjoy its clean water.

For more information about how you can help “Save Our Lake” please call 312.742.4775 or email Janis Taylor"

Baby Hysterical Laughter

I saw this video on a short TV report on I think it was Inside Edition. I came across it again in You Tube and the clip still made me laugh. Go ahead watch it for a few seconds I bet you will crack a smile as well. I think I can count on this clip to cheer me on any day.

Instant Messaging

I love the latest little widget AOL came out with. I've added an AIM® WIMZI™ Widget to this blog and also to my Chicago Photos photoblog so anyone can send me a message while I am online. I had my first visitor conversation earlier today. A complete stranger came across Chicago Photos and sent me a message, basically letting me know that he liked my pictures and enjoyed my site. It turns out the guy was originally from Chicago and had to move away eleven years ago to Seatle. He found my site via a Google search and remenisced his past via some of my pics. So it is a little vain of me! SOo what?!!

I'm looking forward to chatting with friends from this blog, and getting to know my visitors from my photoblog and hearing how they found out about the site. Go ahead, check out the message window in the right hand frame, if you see that I'm online send me an instant message!

Can't Sleep

What happens to me when I fall asleep around 9:30pm? I wake up at 3:30am and cannot fall back asleep! I woke up tried gong back to sleep, struggled for half an hour and finally got out of bed. I've added pictures, made a few posts, played solitaire. It is now two hours later and I am about to get ready for work. (sigh)

Home

For my out of town friends I finally posted some pics of my place on flickr. See the full set. I think I am pretty much done with all the furniture. This week I ordered some pictures that I've taken and plan to have them framed and mounted on my bare walls. You will have to come visit to get a look when I add those in.

Birthday Blues?

Now that I am home I am feeling a bit blue. I broke my birthday rule and decided to work on my birthday. Today was VERY long day too and I feel exhausted! The weekend celebration tired me out in addition to today. I don't think that is the main reason for my birthday blues though. I think I had become accustomed to celebrating my day in another city. I have traveled already this year but something about being away for your birthday made me feel like I celebrated more. I don't know what much more I need though. Every year I like to give myself something. The past years have been trips, this year it was a house. I celebrated with friends this weekend and will have another party with family next weekend. What more could I want? I need a good kick in the pants, someone just tell me to shut up. I'm off to have dinner with the family, hopefully I can lift my spirits up while I'm out.

One Party Down, Countless More to Come

This past Saturday was my first party at my new home. I invited friends to come over to celebrate my birthday at my new place. Days before I kept asking myself why I had committed to host a party, when I hadn't even completed unpacking. When I first set up the Evite two weeks ago, I thought that I would have enough time and the party itself would be a motivator for me to get things done.

I guess you could say it worked. I was running around like a mad woman all week. This week I finished purchasing my furniture necessities to complete the look in my living room, kitchen and backyard. I bought a wine cart, ottomans and a brand new gas grill and patio set. Everything came together pretty well and I have the look I was going for.

The party was a success, I even grilled my own burgers for the first time as well. Normally my brother in law, cousins and uncles would always do the outdoor grilling. I confess I had to Google "how to grill a burger" minutes before my guest arrived. Luckily I had purchased a great seasoning mix at SamsClub the day before. When my first guest called asking what she could bring I also remembered I should have salt and pepper as well. The patties were delicious, and hot dogs were the easiest thing ever. With one small scare (I almost burned my face, not that serious though) everything else went well.

Next weekend will be part-two of my birthday celebration. This weekend was a get-together for friends, next will just be family and close friends of the family. I hope someone else does the cooking :)

Boston Trip

I know this is a very late post. I have been swamped with many things that I hadn't even downloaded my pictures from the trip I took to Boston last month. It was a short weekend trip to surprise Vigdis for her baby shower. Mission - SUCCEEDED. I love the look of surprise in this picture. I posted a few on my favorite Boston weekend moments on flickr. In the midst of the home craziness at that time it was very nice to get away and spend it among friends. I need to do that more often.

Still Unpacking?!? - YES

The boxes around me are slowly beginning to diminish. I moved ALMOST all my stuff last weekend and I have been unpacking little by little everyday. I still have a few more furniture purchases to make, but everything seems to be falling into place. The first room that was complete was my bathroom, funny enough that is actually my favorite room in the house. The previous owners completely renovated the room the best part of all is that we shared the same taste. I don't think I would have changed anything from what was added.

The guest bedroom is almost complete as well, the main reason being that in holds my bed and dresser from my previous bedroom. My room still needs to be put together. It would have been complete had the carpet guys come a day before my furniture was delivered as originally planned. Now I have to put the darn thing together. I complain but from what I am told, it shouldn't be that difficult. I just have to put the bed frame together with bed post and head board and screw in the mirror base to the dresser. I'm just dead tired, I wish I were Genie from I dream of Genie and just blink my eyes with a head nod and have everything complete.

Hectic June

This has been an insanely hectic month. First of all for all those interested I now have my new home! I closed on the 11th on this month and received my keys the following Friday. That weekend I went shopping for furniture and have already purchased my new living room and bedroom set. What is the best part is that I did not comprise on anything and chose everything to my liking. The furniture will be delivered this weekend while I am away. Fortunately my sister said she would be willing to accept the delivery on my behalf.

The second factor to this maddening month is all the traveling I had to do this month. Some were for fun, some for business, all in all enjoyable even though there were hiccups here and there. My first June trip was a weekend road-trip to Wisconsin Dells. I took off a Friday from work and headed with my family to enjoy some relaxation and fun at the Dells water parks. The hotel had very nice spa facilities which helped ease my stress away. Upon my return to work the next day I had to fly out to a conference in San Jose. It was very informative but because of flight delays stressed me out again. Today will be a trip for leisure towards the east coast and I hope I can kill some of the stress with my friends.

The Cicada Run-In

My encounter with a cicada was not how I expected. I think it was last week when I drove by a major avenue on the SW-side suburb of Countryside which edged a forest preserve. I rolled down the window a bit and was amazed to hear how loud the cicadas were. I took a turn into a smaller street and heard their distinct sound even more loudly. I contemplated pulling over and heading near the trees to get a good luck and perhaps getting a pic via my phone of these ugly looking creatures. I've seen a few pictures already and was tempted on snapping a few of my own. Had I not been running a few minutes late for meeting my friend for a movie I'm sure I would have ventured closer.

This weekend a cicada came to me - UNWANTED!! My sister and I decided to grab some breakfast at Bakers Square in La Grange this Saturday. Located minutes away from the same forest preserve I drove by weeks before, cicadas were nearby as well. I even recall mentioning to my sister to pause a bit to listen how loudly they were. She acknowledge and we headed indoors. The waiter showed us to our table and I thought I heard what sounded like a chirp. I sat down and heard it again, the waiter was leaving, when it sounded again and I asked what that noise was, as it seemed to be coming from a nearby plant directly behind my booth. The waiter shook the basket planter, to my plead not to drop what ever it was on me since I was still sitting below. We heard it again and this time is sounded as if it was sitting next to me. I quickly stood up and looked for it. The thing chirped again, this time the sound came from ME!!!!!!

"Oh my goodness oh my goodness, get it off of me, please get it off" I quietly pleaded with my sister and waiter. They couldn't' see it and I did not want to move an inch. Frankly I didn't want to see it. My sister thought it could be in my shirt hood, and suggested I go into the bathroom and see if I could get it out. I saw a few people just stare at me, but I wanted merely to be free of the bug, who's chirp I now heard near my ear.

Sure enough I went into the bathroom stall, flickered off my shirt trying so desperately not to come in contact with it. EEEEEEEeek!!! There it now was on the bathroom floor. I had brought in the cicada. I let the waiter take it out. I saw the look of many other clients and waitstaff just looking to see my reaction. my sister told me how amazed they were that I took it so well. My sister said she would have been screaming and causing much more of a scene. It was creepy, but I can admit - I think it was pretty damn funny.

LAX Delay - It Figures!

In an earlier post entry about two hours ago, while riding on a plane from San Jose to Los Angeles, I wrote that I hoped my flight was not delayed. It’s as if I was begging for the contrary, because sure enough my flight is delayed again. This time it’s worse than my flight delay from Chicago to San Jose. On my way to the west coast my flight was delayed a little over two hours this time the flight delay is of an already extended hour and a half extra to an additional four and a half hours. My total flight time frame will now be ten hours. My flight was supposed to depart from LAX at 5:15pm it will now depart at 9:20pm. It’s not so much that the flight was delayed it self, apparently the aircraft that we were supposed to travel on is now out of service. The airline needed to find another aircraft and one will not be available until two hours from now, but will not depart until an additional two hours after that.

My choices were to either wait it out here and receive the meal voucher the airline was providing or work with the attendant and find another flight for tomorrow afternoon. I seriously considered staying for many minutes. I was planning on getting the airline to provide me hotel vouchers and planned out what time I would need a ride back tomorrow night from Chicago. I overheard someone getting the earliest available time flight of 2:30pm. For me that meant that I would probably arrive at O’Hare at a little past seven at night. I wondered if I could dial in to any of the meetings I am scheduled for tomorrow. I decided not to risk another chance of having my flight delayed or canceled tomorrow. I have too much work to catch up and in addition I have a final walk through for my home on Saturday.

I will stick it out and hang out in the LAX airport for a while. I scammed myself another food voucher, I know $10 isn’t really enough for the expensive food that is served here, even for the fast food restaurants. Sure enough my total from Chili’s restaurant was over $15, to bad I couldn’t leave the rest as tip. I left a few bucks out of my own pocket, and felt pretty good for having thought forward to get that other voucher. The only thing that is making passing time a bit more bearable is being able to surf the net. I opted to purchase the T-mobile hotspot access and here I am writing this post and uploading my previous post I had written on notepad.

What else is there to do for four hours? I already went shopping in the Hudson gift stores. UGH! This is so frustrating, I will have an additional four hours of actual flight time before I get to Chicago. I'll probably get to my house until 3-3:30 am.

Summary of San Jose Trip

Here I am waiting for another flight. This is the first one of two that will take me home tonight. I'm heading out from San Jose to Los Angeles and finally arriving in Chicago. It's actually pretty dead in here, which is disappointing, because when booking this flight I assumed I couldn't find a direct flight because they were all booked. It looks like there are less than twenty people sitting here within the three adjacent gates. The airport is fairly small to begin with, especially in comparison with O'Hare airport.

The trip overall was pretty good. The conference was very informative and I benefited greatly from meeting the various vendors, clients and colleagues during my visits to the exhibition hall. One that the struck me rather odd was how strict the coordinators were in letting people into the vendor exhibition hall. This was the first conference that I've been to where people without a pass were not allowed into the vendor display area. I can understand not letting people into the seminar sessions but no one without a badge was cleared to pass a few feat into the exhibit area. The whole point of that area is for vendors to gain access to potential clients, why would the coordinators be so strict? My badge had fallen by a cyber-cafe area, and when I returned to the area to try and look for it, I was immediately stopped by what seemed like the British guards placed in front of the London castle. I asked the attendant at the registration booth and was concerned when they informed me that they would only print my badge but would lose all vouchers, to lunch, dinner and a directory booklet. Luckily they were open for me to look for the badge, since I had a pretty good idea where it would be. After convincing the national guards (ok I'm exaggerating) to let me in, sure enough I located my badge and vouchers.

I am truly happy I came, I met many nice people and good contacts that I am sure I will cross paths for work. We actually had a bit of fun as well, attending an after dinner party hosted by one of the vendors. The days however were long and tiring. ON my first day I hadn't stepped into my hotel for more than 10 minutes from 8am until 1am. The second day was a little less hectic but still tiring. The sessions were jammed packed with information and networking all day forced you to always have your game face on and be attentive at all times. After several hours I'm sure you can understand that it could be draining.

Today was a bit more relaxed. I only had a few workshops to go to. I had lunch, walked a bit and dialled into a few meetings at work, and now I am here at the airport. I hope I don't get any flight delays. I read the weather report this morning and saw that Chicago expected evening thunderstorms. I do not want to prolong an already long flight plan of six hours.

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!