what the what?

I can't believe the question from The New York Times to the President in tonight's press conference. What has "surprised, troubled, enchanted and humbled" you the most during your first 100 days in office?!?

First - this is a press conference, not an intimate chat over a cup of tea. Second - you are The New York Times, not Oprah. Third - Amy Adams is the only one who can pull off enchanted.

I thought Obama answered the best way he could - a bit fumbled and stuck-on-message, but I am giving the guy a break for even going there and not throwing his pen at the guy.

the grill's season premiere

Our 20+-year-old Weber grill (the tomato) is ready for another season. Ben got it out and cleaned-up today. We did have to purchase a new grate, but that's a reasonable tune-up.

Tonight's menu: pork, potatoes, red and green peppers and mixed greens with cucumber and apple. I'm lucky to have a husband who likes to cook (and is very good at it!)!!!

dear earth

I'm sorry for all the plastic bottles I used in Phoenix and trashed. I tried to use my cool new re-usable water bottle as much as I could. I curse the city for not having more recycle receptacles. I would have flown them all home, but I really needed space for my new Pumas. I promise to take better care of you in the future.

On the bright side, our first tulips are blooming and they look fantastic. Thank you for the beauty you bring us; I will try to appreciate it more.

the comforts of home

I made it in and out of O'Hare without delays. Twice. I must be living right. I am sure payback will come on a future trip.

My mom, brother and Abigail welcomed me home today with big hugs at the airport. The joy of hearing Abigail yelling "Aunt 'Lissa" and running toward me for a hug .... that'll stay with me for a long time. Dang, she's a cute 4 year old.

Still waiting for my Ben hug. He's at class right now...just a few weeks to go and he'll be a graduate.

IL greeted me with gray, rainy skies, but it's ok. My skin needs a break from the 95 degree heat and lethal sun. I have 2 weeks of Lost to catch up on now.....ahhhhhhh.......I love TiVo and home.

state of confusion

Maybe it's the dry, desert air. Or the fact that I've been working non-stop. But for some reason I can't keep the days straight and instead of adapting to the time change I am getting more confused.

My "weekend" took place part of today and yesterday. Back to work tomorrow for a 5 day stretch until I leave AZ on Monday. I am definitely starting to get home sick. I miss my pillow. Why do hotel pillows suck so much? Give me a plain, ol' foam pillow any time. You can keep your fancy feathers thank you very much.

I have had some great food the past few days, including an awesome sweet potato sandwich at Wildflower Bread Co. Yummm...so good.

best of the week so far

It's been a crazy busy week for me in Phoenix. Some down time, but mostly work!

Here are the highlights so far:
5. coffee bean and tea leaf and paradise bakery
4. fish tacos at Blanco
3. no snow and a lot of sunshine
2. hanging out with Lynn
1. getting to meet Andrew Thomas Burchfield (scheduled for tomorrow)

My brain is tired and it's bedtime. ....

back to the desert

The plan is to leave Bloomington very early, change plans at O'Hare and arrive in Phoenix around noon. I hope the weather cooperates. Old man winter's last gasp better not keep me from the warm sunshine.

Back to packing...talk to ya from the road....

europe

Michelle, The Queen, Carla! What an amazing week in politics! (oh, and the G-20 Summit sounds interesting too; just not as beautiful).

This article has a good photo from the visit to Buckingham Palace (the Obamas look like giants!) and some fashion commentary. Tonight they get to have a dinner created by Jamie Oliver. I want to be a cool first lady in my next life!