tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62495242011-12-22T00:26:36.404-05:00A chronicle of my junkets and adventures. Maybe some random babbling.valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.comBlogger3081100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-89699731835249456662011-12-22T00:08:00.002-05:002011-12-22T00:26:16.205-05:00

After almost two years of waiting and poking and prodding, six months of dialyzing, and about four weeks of nailbiting, a small Christmas miracle occurred. Mom got a kidney transplant. Granted thousands of these operations happen every year, it still seems surreal and amazing. The organ starting functioning almost immediately, and thus far there have been no complications. I didn't think the

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-987109887223782492011-11-14T22:54:00.003-05:002011-11-14T23:52:44.865-05:00

Many of you have asked me why I have not posted anything in a couple months. There are several reasons for this. One big one is, I had a very bad bike accident on August 30 and needed 20 stitches just below my knee. This happened two weeks before my very first half Ironman race and was a huge blow to my confidence, not to mention very painful and disruptive to my normal routine. For two weeks

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-83377339467652630812011-09-20T15:24:00.004-04:002011-12-22T00:08:51.694-05:00

There's nothing like waking up with breakfast already made. It's even better when the apartment smells heavenly. My crockpot oatmeal is convenient and fragrant, plus it's healthy, easy, and can serve several people or be refrigerated for later in the week. Thanks to Mommy's Kitchen for the inspiration.1 cup steel-cut oats4 cups water1/2 cup milkcinnamon stick and ground cinnamonnutmeg2-3 cloves

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-76592207506187889272011-08-22T11:48:00.002-04:002011-08-22T12:34:02.168-04:00

During my FMLA break, one of my biggest tasks has been cleaning the house. My parents have started referring to me as the White Tornado, and they definitely batten down the hatches once I get started, especially when trash bags are in tow. My mother refuses to part with most of her possessions, each one has a story around its origin. The typical shrieked response is, "You can't get rid of that

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-91695139367938942962011-07-29T11:56:00.002-04:002011-07-29T11:58:06.193-04:00

I kinda doubt anyone cares about what happens on my block, because there's not much. When my neighbor across the street answers the door in a towel, even less so.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-45271105286586806442011-07-26T08:12:00.002-04:002011-07-26T08:45:28.003-04:00

Two years have gone by since the horrific "wrong-way" crash, and last night HBO debuted its documentary on the families involved. It's hard to watch. Besides the picture of Diane Schuler dead on the grass, the surveillance video is so eerie to watch. Besides the images, it made me wince to see the Schuler family grap at every straw they can to "clear Diane's name."Sometimes it is hard to

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-42164756118125450812011-07-20T12:18:00.001-04:002011-08-22T12:34:21.407-04:00

Food trucks rock. The crackdown is so ridiculous. Any shop that feels threatened by a food truck probably sucks. Get over it, it's called a free market. Thank godness for The Lot on Tap

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-21209560168485832902011-07-10T12:01:00.002-04:002011-07-10T12:33:25.184-04:00

Peritoneal cavity...nephrology..catheter exit site...these are all words I'm using more often. Someone close to me has advanced kidney impairment and started peritoneal dialysis. It's a great treatment that can be done in the comfort and convenience of one's home. However, in the beginning, it needs to be done four times a day, and takes an hour for each cycle, not to mention the preparation

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-88780614871175635262011-06-12T21:44:00.001-04:002011-09-19T18:37:31.862-04:00

Ironman NYC. August 12, 2012. I will be at my computer Wednesday at 11:55am to start the entry process.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-53272082367795425092011-03-20T20:19:00.001-04:002011-03-23T18:37:34.407-04:00

If you've ever wanted to immerse yourself in a particular city, a marathon - itself a tradition stemming from classical Greek culture - is one of the best ways to do so. Now imagine yourself at the crossroads of the ancient and modern, where structures built centuries ago stand besides or are incorporated into modern buildings. Visualize running on paths trod for many centuries and observing

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-13984254977451962622011-03-17T23:06:00.002-04:002011-03-17T23:10:03.174-04:00

Is this for real? The problem is, men don't act politely and sincerely. They just expect women to put out and deal with all their immature nonsense, including festering diseases that cause cancer. I say, sack up, keep your fly closed most of the time, bring back romance, and maybe you'll reap the rewards.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-39435047152348449862011-03-06T18:33:00.001-05:002011-03-06T18:35:59.314-05:00

Two years ago, Here is the City News reported that the Soviet national anthem had been played on Goldman Sachs' trading floor. Are we still headed in that direction, or does it seem like business as usual still?

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-54860771219153463622011-03-05T18:50:00.002-05:002011-03-05T19:05:43.407-05:00

As I was cleaning out my Gmail account, I found this article written by Maureen Dowd. In a nutshell, it's what to look for in a potential spouse. Three years later, we are now graced with the Divorce Pages. I'm just holding out hope for a guy in the tri-state area who is a good boyfriend. Even that seems like a rare commodity. Oy.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-20029683320540933332011-01-27T11:42:00.001-05:002011-01-27T11:43:21.345-05:00

The City is planning to name a street after a fellow high school alumna (and the sister of my trainer) who was killed in 9/11. Finally something that hasn't been politicized and polarized. Just hope City Council doesn't crush it.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-51871169286096947372011-01-17T08:17:00.001-05:002011-01-17T08:23:39.075-05:00

Here I am again in sunny south Florida. Despite the God's waiting room reputation, I quite enjoythe more laidback pace, great weather, and low prices. Plus, staying with my aunt and uncle, even though my parents have just acquired their own condo one floor below, guaranteees a long weekend of great food, alcohol, and good conversation. Why do I live in New York again?

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-14238948641093838602010-12-27T07:23:00.001-05:002010-12-27T07:24:46.534-05:00

Tracy Morgan is getting a new kidney. As someone close to a person on two, soon to be three, transplant lists, I wish him well. [PSA] More people need to understand the link between diabetes/high blood pressure/ other obesity-related maladies and their long-term add-on ailments, such as kidney impairment and failure. Makes you want to pass on that round of Buffalo wings, eh?

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-293388651645168022010-12-21T07:43:00.000-05:002010-12-27T07:44:01.377-05:00

In the words of my traveling partner MFF, "people have lost their minds."

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-60715223309907197322010-12-20T11:43:00.000-05:002011-09-19T18:37:31.863-04:00

Not impressed with Hue (besides our fantastic tour guide and another fun motorbike tour). The city itself, especially near where we are staying, does not have much charm. Plus our room has ants. We had to throw away most of our goodies. The overnight train to Hanoi was much nicer than the last one, the conductor handed out free water and instant noodles. Our only visitor was a mouse or two.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-16738245381805145292010-12-18T16:07:00.002-05:002011-01-17T08:22:36.167-05:00

I take back what I said about overnight trains. Squashing roaches for half the night is not conducive to a good night's sleep. We've got one more long haul to go, which I hope is cleaner and less sketchy. Hoi An is fantastic. A small town, much less hectic than HCMC, this is the bespoke tailoring capital of Vietnam. M and I have gone nuts, purchasing a winter coat, a knockoff Vivienne

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-14483983505291876782010-12-16T13:37:00.000-05:002010-12-28T00:33:22.605-05:00

To get to Nha Trang, we took an overnight train from Ho Chi Minh City, my first ride ever. Overall, not bad! Would definitely consider it in the future. The rocking of the train seemed to help lull me to sleep, although the anti-malaria pills have been stirring up some wild dreams.Nha Trang is, ok. Our hotel room looks like one of those shady true-crime reenactments. There are signs in

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-59309798516841257332010-12-13T12:21:00.003-05:002010-12-28T00:33:22.606-05:00

After a fun-filled weekend in Hong Kong gossiping about work and bringing the 10-year reunion to Y, it's onto Vietnam. We found a good tour after the recommendation of another sorority sister, which was affordable and unstructured enough to take care of transportation and accommodation and leave flexibility for everything else.Truth be told, I had no idea what to expect from this country. The

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-23011632563281257482010-12-11T12:11:00.002-05:002010-12-28T00:33:22.606-05:00

My first trip to Asia! The flight, fifteen and a half hours in economy, turned out to be bearable. Since our headphones didn't work we ended up shifting around and taking turns stretching out in the row. We also got a US$50 credit for inflight duty free. HKG is, in a word, awesome. There is so much energy, which you'd expect for having the same number of people as New York in a fourth of the

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-75004660297365240342010-10-31T00:02:00.001-04:002010-12-28T00:04:31.423-05:00

I know I have neglected you lately. My life has been work, training, and races. Not sure why, but I've been in a bit of a funk. Maybe this year just needs to end.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-6441313255846950872010-09-20T15:48:00.000-04:002010-10-02T15:49:16.524-04:00

While still on the fence about the whole kid thing, I thought this article raised a lot of good points about the childfree lifestyle.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-79001593246539706282010-09-10T17:48:00.001-04:002010-09-10T17:49:52.878-04:00

...that in 1971 holography won the Nobel Prize in physics? It's true! Unfortunately, because of predatory lending, the delightful little museum where I learned this curious fact from a half-senile curator may no longer be around to share the story.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-92121103386922757042010-09-03T09:06:00.000-04:002010-09-24T09:07:39.875-04:00

Great article about thinking clearly and using "old-fashioned" values of discipline and thrift. Everything old is new again....

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-25815519873191944892010-08-16T00:18:00.000-04:002010-12-28T00:33:06.442-05:00

Despite my host's protests, I brought this lovely side dish with my CSA bounty over the weekend. It was polished off in fifteen minutes flat.Even though it's not outdoors, I made these muffins for my colleagues, and they were also promptly polished off.Zucchini, it's green but tastes great.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-77786529404384419092010-07-19T07:36:00.001-04:002011-09-19T18:37:31.864-04:00

It was hard being sidelined this weekend, but I also was happy to give the other participants support - "Hey, you walking, you've got a quarter mile left, pour it on!"This is a nice article comparing triathlon training to playing complex piano compositions. Who knew?

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-84783233004878570912010-06-09T00:28:00.000-04:002010-12-28T00:33:06.442-05:00

O and I have been very domestic lately, making butter-poached breakfast radishes, root-topkopita, and rhubarb compote. What's next?

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-42881045914288554542010-05-30T12:25:00.003-04:002010-05-31T11:02:29.152-04:00

I recently read a few articles about medication that affects women's sex drive, two about oral contraception in Marie Claire and The Daily Beast suggesting women go off the Pill. Marie Claire states that the hormones in the Pill can affect your choice of mate, while The Daily Beast indicates that oral contraceptives can kill sex drive. While I personally have never had this problem, I do have

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-87806927364934126582010-05-26T22:50:00.001-04:002010-05-26T22:52:13.081-04:00

Posen Says U.K. at ‘Low Risk’ of ‘Turning Japanese’. He really thinks so.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-30170258297911616832010-05-25T07:47:00.002-04:002010-05-25T07:49:23.163-04:00

Don't get me wrong, divorce is a sad, sometimes necessary part of life. But loading up your best buds and going to a strip joint in Las Vegas to celebrate your newly-found freedom? Maybe you shouldn't have gotten married in the first place, Douchey McDoucheBag.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-42054595809701111142010-05-08T16:12:00.002-04:002010-05-08T16:19:16.982-04:00

I've taken the plunge and started waxing more than my eyebrows. Two weeks ago my legs were hairy enough for hot wax to rip the little buggers out from the root. It was mildly uncomfortable but not completely unbearable. Now, it bothers me that my legs are fuzzy, but at least they are not visibly stubbly. Today I decide to go a bit further to the bikini line. Not Brazilian, that is being

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-5395747451971862382010-04-25T10:56:00.003-04:002010-04-25T17:49:20.234-04:00

Another casualty of the economy - romance. An old friend of mine confided over a beer a little while ago that he's having issues with his significant other. It's best categorized as existential confusion - "do we have to like the exact same things? are we meant to be with each other forever? is something missing?" I was disappointed that they are struggling but not surprised. Given that

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-11208026500188543502010-04-20T10:47:00.003-04:002010-04-20T10:55:16.337-04:00

In the past two weeks I've ventured twice to the latest and possibly largest beer garden in town, Studio Square. Being located three blocks from the 36th St stop of the R train is a bonus, although cabs are few and far between in the wee hours, even on Northern Blvd. What's great is that there is so much space, about three times the outdoor and ten times the indoor seating of Bohemian. There

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-71171521424291808472010-04-03T10:44:00.000-04:002010-04-20T10:47:09.174-04:00

My parents have been married for 39 years today. Their wedding song was Perry Como's "It's Impossible." I think that says it all.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-81973330278391881162010-03-29T19:20:00.000-04:002010-03-29T19:21:11.729-04:00

“People universally tend to think that happiness is a stroke of luck or something that will maybe descend upon you like fine weather...That’s not how happiness works. Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it.”

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-40083411387132177962010-03-24T16:53:00.001-04:002010-03-24T16:54:22.805-04:00

The Muppets' take on Queen

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-58793324554549615902010-03-01T09:00:00.000-05:002011-09-19T18:37:31.865-04:00

Good: Hanging with JJD and WC, partying at Oz on Bourbon St, the burgers and lethal cocktails at Port of Call, running into a college buddy at karaoke who had just finished the marathon, gorgeous early spring weather, watching the gold medal men's hockey game on the large screen at Harrah'sBad: Frank's waitress telling us they ran out of muffalatta bread after we walked in saying we wanted

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-34784659674615023672010-02-19T10:31:00.002-05:002010-04-20T10:42:49.274-04:00

M, O, and I all made plans to go to Jamaica. As it turned out, the morning of our flight, M and O both got monster stomach bugs. M toughed it out and made it to the airport, whereas O could barely stand up and sadly missed our trip. (p.s. M is a guy friend. Yes, I traveled with an unrelated male. No, we didn't have any hanky panky. I don't care what "When Harry Met Sally" said.)This yet again

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-64757831292482951562010-02-11T20:48:00.003-05:002010-03-28T20:50:13.072-04:00

Although this video isn't as slick as Here It Comes Again, it's still endearing. This takes me back to college marching band, ahh memories.....

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-14806366662742793952010-01-31T18:35:00.002-05:002010-01-31T18:38:30.440-05:00

Doug Murray '03 of the San Jose Sharks will represent Sweden at the Vancouver Olympics. I remember him as quite the hard-nosed beast who wore faux-snakeskin pants out to Dunbar's. On a local front, my Harvard-Cornell tickets have already arrived in the mail. LET'S GO RED!

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-14039665705237045722010-01-12T18:33:00.001-05:002010-03-28T18:36:05.417-04:00

How walkable is your current (or future) neighborhood? According to this site, my nabe scores 86, with the top 10% of hoods in the 92 range. Another cool site from VSL

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-72548941520673944702010-01-05T21:37:00.004-05:002010-12-28T00:35:37.154-05:00

Given I had two rutabagas and celery root from my farm share on the verge of shrivelling into nothing, I decided to be domestic last night and make celery root puree from Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern and rutabaga fries. Of course, I didn't buy enough milk (1 quart = 4 cups, not 8!!!) and had no paprika on hand. No matter. It is exrtemely hard to burn milk and takes a loooooong time.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-21389311761456219322009-12-24T21:43:00.002-05:002010-01-26T23:11:08.774-05:00

This Christmas, I have really outdone myself. Not only have I brought back the Finnish ginger pigs, I also made Nigella Lawson's gingerbread muffins, which smell as seductive as they taste, and Norwegian butter cookies, which tasted good even without the egg accidentally omitted. Mental note: do not let a drunk friend read out the recipe off the computer. Happy Holidays everyone!

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-23122665001235308652009-12-14T20:54:00.002-05:002009-12-14T21:07:00.828-05:00

So I thought it couldn't get any more hysterical than being dumped for a gorgon. Oh, it does. Apparently, Captain America got married in November very quickly to someone he was dating while we were exclusive. Fifty bucks says she's got a bun in the oven. Boys and girls, condoms!!!!Given the choice between a) dating a boring newt, b) marrying a gun-toting psychopath because he doesn't

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-8186089403217879862009-11-29T12:25:00.002-05:002010-01-26T23:10:01.721-05:00

This morning I woke up feeling very congested, which gives me an excuse not to go to the gym. However, I don't like sitting idle. Instead of cleaning my visible apartment, I decided to attack the remnants of my last CSA delivery. Here's what I've accomplished:- kale chips: found the inspiration for this on Chowhound. With the half bunch of kale I had, it fit neatly in my toaster oven, which

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-81826280628205443412009-11-24T14:35:00.000-05:002010-01-26T23:10:01.721-05:00

My coworker and I tracked down the Schnitzel and Things truck on Twitter. I am definitely a fan. Veal schnitzel was on special today-scrumptious! The Yukon Gold fries and chickpea salad were all right. If you work in midtown, I recommend it.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-80031428799104494922009-11-21T12:18:00.001-05:002009-11-21T12:20:10.145-05:00

Philip Roth seems to think so. Have a listen for yourself.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-35638322607067066212009-11-08T23:28:00.000-05:002009-11-08T23:33:05.037-05:00

Off to Europe, mostly not for fun. Willem Dafoe is in first class reading a script. The suits picking up the bill only do business, not complaining! I need some shuteye before rocking up to the office straight from Heathrow. AA's 777s have built-in TVs and almost lie-flat beds. It's about time they entered the late 90's!!See you in a week or so....

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-75326906248185435512009-10-15T16:34:00.000-04:002009-10-15T16:35:17.180-04:00

Ahh, to have enough time to read a book every day...

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-393663505618219042009-09-10T15:27:00.000-04:002010-01-10T15:27:48.777-05:00

I want to date this guy, although the facial hair would not fly well.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-33576338140708978782009-09-02T22:38:00.000-04:002010-01-26T23:09:33.265-05:00

[DISCLAIMER: this post may inflame Texans and especially Houstonians. If one of them happens to be my brother's ex-fiancee, here's hoping you spontaneously burst into flames anyway.]Three days in a town is not enough to grasp the essence of a particular place, especially when most of the 72 hours is spent behind a desk. I did not have great expectations of Houston when I found out I'd have some

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-48782341919839427482009-08-10T10:44:00.000-04:002010-01-26T23:09:33.265-05:00

I have a tremendous amount of work awaiting me on my return from Lisbon. You will not hear much of me for the next month, don't take it personally....

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-29585272778493689922009-08-05T10:35:00.000-04:002010-01-26T23:11:23.068-05:00

It's a good thing and a bad thing that more Americans don't go to Portugal. It's cheap, friendly, not overtrodden (except the Algarve), easygoing, and has really great uncomplicated food and wine. The seafood is out of this world. Don't think about it too hard, just go.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-86550389855867438802009-07-26T14:22:00.002-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.692-04:00

Many of you have expressed concerns about my mental health lately. Just to clear the air, lots of people do triathlons every year. Several thousand just participated in this morning's NYC Tri. Moreover, the Hudson is safe for swimming. It's similar to bathing in a swamp, yes, but the EPA tests it regularly. (Not sure if that will inspire confidence; maybe the fact that I wore a wetsuit is

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-25921893125250179122009-07-15T08:42:00.001-04:002009-09-13T12:13:44.557-04:00

To neglect a girlfriend, cheat, lie, break up abruptly, try to weasel out of paying half from a shared vacation and leave mounds of crap behind in her apartment, spread lame BS to all mutual friends about the relationship, and then send disturbing anonymous text messages is one thing. It's really pathetic when a Facebook profile picture was is posted from said vacation with the now-ex-girlfriend

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-839900589146920032009-07-05T08:19:00.000-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.692-04:00

Spending the 4th weekend with my coworker/friend and her family. We are both very much looking forward to doing not much of anything. Plus, our families are very similar so I feel right at home! Virginia Beach is great, although on the boardwalk I have to watch my p's and q's as there are great no-swearing signs.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-70400296403754022582009-06-25T20:03:00.002-04:002009-06-27T15:29:07.822-04:00

When FOX started displaying a report from TMZ that Michael Jackson was dead, I didn't fully accept it. This may reflect on the questionable reliability of a gossip website, but I think it goes a little deeper. The sudden death of an iconic global figure (well, has-been icon) attempting a comeback is a classic, almost textbook, tragedy. That pill-popping may have been a factor should shock no

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-24397520827296552132009-06-07T19:48:00.003-04:002009-06-07T19:52:38.070-04:00

WE is having a Bridezillas marathon today. These women are snarky, obnoxious biatches. And most of them are morbidly obese. I have absolutely no desire to throw away that much money, piss off everyone around me, and lose sanity over one day. Yecch

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-82619917230060645682009-05-24T08:33:00.001-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.693-04:00

Austin is the one of only cities in Texas (I have been to so far) that I could live in. This was confirmed over Memorial Day weekend. We popped up to Fort Worth to visit M's sister M, and I quite liked it there, although I'm still not ready for the 'burbs. At least it wasn't Dallas. Big fan of the kolaches in West, Texas, tubing, and the kitschy neon signs all over town.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-33772655128860168782009-04-24T15:21:00.000-04:002009-05-03T15:25:37.609-04:00

It's my yearly trip to Palm Beach to visit the aunt and uncle. Yet another trip where I do pretty much nothing, which is just fine. However, I did go on two runs, one five-miler on the beach (look out for washed-up man-o-wars!) and one six mile run/walk. The amusement this trip was getting hit on by a 70-something divorcee from easter Europe. Guess I still look hot in a string bikini. I need

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-20761748869453939032009-04-18T07:54:00.002-04:002009-04-18T07:55:16.995-04:00

I'd love to figure out which building this started in. You may become very meditative watching the plane land - this is normal.Flying from Sam Fuller on Vimeo.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-69762942762345431382009-04-12T23:37:00.003-04:002009-04-12T23:48:27.549-04:00

Easter is here, although from this chilly weather you wouldn't know it. To unleash my creativity, I learned how to decorate eggs the Ukrainian way, known as pysanky. It's not that easy, it takes a steady hand and some knowledge of folk art and symbolism. Since DailyCandy's mailing didn't indicate reservations were required, we almost were not able to get a seat at the Spacecraft class, but it

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-76172839854490645422009-04-10T22:57:00.001-04:002009-04-13T23:03:07.870-04:00

Fort Greene as some awesome places to discover. I like the laidback vibe but minimal hipster invasion (so far). It's a perfect nabe to hang out with friends and throw a few back. Brooklyn Public House is a perfect example of this. Good beer selection, chill ambience, even though I can't comment on the food. We almost needed to, though, because we were undernourished and overcharged at Ici

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-29941319794616611152009-03-08T22:00:00.000-04:002009-04-20T22:08:10.232-04:00

This video gets my goat a little, in that I am an alumna of a state school (although my masters is from an endowed college). Granted Keith Olbermann is a pompus douchebag, last time I checked, there was no distinction between the private and state-subsidized colleges in what constitutes the Ivy League. I could care less if Ann Coulter graduated cum laude; she is still a crazy b1tch. Pick on

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-42495918204873002152009-02-25T08:14:00.002-05:002009-04-18T08:20:46.471-04:00

Humanity has been searching for the fountain of youth and longevity since the beginning of time. Naturally, eating less generally helps with maintaining a healthy weight. Some studies have shown that reducing caloric intake can improve health and possibly lengthen life span. Now an experiment in Germany indicates it can also increase memory in elderly. Makes you wonder if religious-based

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-69205286338736047462009-02-18T15:18:00.000-05:002010-01-26T23:10:35.477-05:00

Hola. This week I am on vacation in Mexico. Even though O and I planned on hiking, exploring a cenote, and snorkelling, I think we are just going to do nothing but morning yoga on the beach, swimming, and sunning/reading.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-19720400783238756442009-02-11T22:37:00.000-05:002009-04-13T22:38:39.325-04:00

This is a pretty interesting picture. See if you can find the guy flipping off the camera and those that know they're being photographed.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-31239798345374319002009-02-08T22:40:00.001-05:002011-03-23T18:46:00.693-04:00

M's 30th birthday was last night, so a bunch of us had brunch and then hit the Met. Given times are slim, we decided to cook instead of get dinner out. In addition to my mom's honey chicken recipe (family secret), I whipped up Yukon Gold and yam home fries and this zucchini recipe. Yes, it's Rachael Ray. From past experience, she either has good concept recipes that require very slight tweaks

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-83835458342195345572009-01-28T22:47:00.000-05:002009-04-13T22:51:29.075-04:00

In the mothership's enduring wisdom, it's not enough to condense three work trips into one. The trip must be as short as humanly possible. However, what they neglect to consider in the great southern land is that North America has horrendous weather from December through April, and it fouls up travel coming and going (literally). Let's hope I make it out of this itinerary alive and on time:

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-71478468364046461002009-01-12T19:50:00.007-05:002009-01-12T23:48:27.116-05:00

Lately it has seemed that many of my loved ones' relationships have fallen to pieces. In Chinese numerology, eight is an indicator of change, so maybe the preceding year had something to do with it. From my experience and observation of others, something like the Kübler-Ross grief cycle comes into play. As a public service to those of you out there struggling with the death of a love affair,

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-89322665593364670722009-01-05T22:59:00.003-05:002009-01-06T21:36:19.961-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed cooking. It's difficult preparing meals for one, particularly eating the same meal several times, so often I will invite friends to join me. Over the year, my goal is to find at least 1-2 recipes a month that are eaten in one shot, without sending any home with the guests.Since I had basil in my fridge, I felt inspired to pulverize it into a pesto,

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-30575262985549040922009-01-03T15:15:00.001-05:002009-01-03T15:21:00.148-05:00

Hey Knight Rider fans! Now you can get a KITT GPS to tell you when to make that next right turn. What's next? A tablet PC a la Penny's computer book (from Inspector Gadget)??

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-12434405157136044862009-01-01T02:22:00.001-05:002009-01-05T23:13:12.260-05:00

Can you believe I've been jotting down my adventures and random thoughts for over five years now! It's hard for me to fathom that much time has passed since I was in Oman swekking and experiencing a completely different way of life. In some ways, not much has changed about me; life has meandered and taken some interesting turns here and there. On the flipside, I think my mindset is very

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-8773473117047127362008-12-21T01:03:00.002-05:002011-03-23T18:46:00.693-04:00

Upon arriving home from Australia, all tan and warm, not only am I greeted by snow/slush/rain, but also a padlock on the door of one of my favorite neighborhood cafes. Munch Cafe, a recent press darling in Time Out and AM New York, is gone. According to the owner, flooding that remained unaddressed by the co-op board or the building managing agent forced the place to shutter. While service was

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-57946458736427234872008-12-17T00:05:00.001-05:002009-01-03T00:22:20.522-05:00

To an outsider, it seems that there is a pretty strong rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne. Residents I met in both towns enjoyed slagging off the other city. I'm not sure there is a similar tension in the US between LA and NYC. To clear the air for those of you who have never even set foot on the great southern land, here are my unbiased observations. Please note I have spent a combined

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-4650460965945853162008-12-07T02:12:00.001-05:002008-12-07T02:14:01.480-05:00

You might think I'm crazy, but today I took surfing lessons. It's quite tricky, especially when the waves just aren't very high. However, I managed to get enough practice to stand on the board and ride it all the way to the shore. Woo hoo! It's such a rush, I'm hooked!

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-91610642333084093102008-11-22T18:57:00.002-05:002008-11-22T19:06:58.598-05:00

It's amazing how quickly things can change. Who knew I'd be back in Oz in time for the good weather? Economic conditions notwithstanding, there's heaps to do here and not much going on back home. It's been a bit windy and rainy, but not that I'm complaining, I'll take 60 degree weather over 30-degree (Fahrenheit) any day :).Given my freedom, naturally I have been taking a lot of flak about

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-54415162725824726732008-10-26T11:38:00.003-04:002009-01-12T23:49:43.553-05:00

To those of you in finance who would pooh-pooh my "second-class, support staff" IT management job: F*ck you very much for entangling every bank in derivatives, mortgage securities, credit default swaps, naked short sells, and God knows what else you probably didn't even understand. As a result, you have proceeded to grind almost every country's economy (except Iraq's) to a halt, reduce the stock

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-49818291662919635162008-10-05T17:29:00.002-04:002008-10-05T17:35:55.346-04:00

What's wrong with this picture?... being fluent in Spanish, he traveled to Brazil; giving the gift of chiropractic to hundreds of underprivileged people.a) Underprivileged people may need medicine and clean water more than spine adjustments.b) They speak Portuguese in Brazil.c) All of the aboveStill can't believe I actually dated this friggin dumbass for as long as I did.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-3927319182684899842008-09-23T22:25:00.002-04:002008-09-23T22:41:31.489-04:00

Generally, I find people who overuse big words to be annoying and arrogant. It would be a fun game to scream really loud every time someone finds a large word in an article or in a speech, like during Pee Wee's Playhouse. Even though this posting is six months old, it still resonates (oops! did I use a big word? AAAAAAAAAAAAAH!), especially because I read quite a bit, and I often read reviews

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-20249485776953959472008-08-09T11:32:00.000-04:002008-10-26T11:35:54.764-04:00

So I started talking to someone new. Does this sound familiar?- (half-Italian, half-)Jewish- grew up in Bergen County (but moved to FL for high school)- Ivy grad (not Cornell)- works for a hedge fund What in the name of God am I doing?!

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-70062872971962544602008-07-29T19:45:00.001-04:002008-08-07T19:48:00.020-04:00

Scrabulous has been shut down on Facebook. Apparently the decision was from the Scrabulous camp, not Facebook. Down with Hasbro!!! Sniff sniff, one less way to procrastinate...

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-52225552719853792962008-07-27T14:56:00.002-04:002008-07-27T15:00:55.108-04:00

Is this guy for real? I received the initial MP3 whose friend is a friend of Olga. The YouTube video that goes along with the voicemail is amusing. If this is what I have to look forward to in the world of dating, I'm entering a convent.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-5503642640801168262008-07-23T08:22:00.003-04:002008-07-23T08:46:25.339-04:00

Open Letter to Ivanka TrumpDear Ivanka,What are you thinking, girl? Convert to Orthodox Judaism?! What does your dad have to say about this? I have nothing against Judaism or any faith for that matter, but you should think twice about taking such a big step as taking on another religion. As someone who has been in a few interfaith relationships, as well as having seen the relative success of

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-84098523202860740292008-06-25T13:37:00.000-04:002008-09-16T00:41:55.708-04:00

In less than a week, a New York institution that still has packed tables will shutter its doors. It makes me feel so bad that this is the first and last time I will ever eat here. What's worse is, it closes for good on my birthday. I'm really disappointed that Florent's landlord thinks that what the Meat Packing District really needs is more luxury housing/dining/shopping. I say, kick out the

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-31390038362311559222008-06-23T14:22:00.000-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.694-04:00

Some of you may think it's nuts to pay four-digit prices on a plane fare at the last minute to go to Istanbul for less than a week. I don't care. This had to be one of the best trips I've ever taken. Some people may buy themselves a pair of shoes or earrings as a birthday present to themselves, but I think this has any material object beat. Three days was enough time to march around town and

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-2506452722964003392008-06-13T00:15:00.000-04:002008-09-16T00:22:41.852-04:00

This trip was rough hours-wise (I broke my personal record of latest departure time - it is now 5:30am the following day), but not as hard emotionally as previous projects. I did a lot of power walking around the city to relieve stress and saw a good portion of it. As clean and friendly and nice as it is, it reminds me too much of New York, particularly the downtown area. However, I did enjoy

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-31208006951046918602008-06-03T14:39:00.001-04:002008-07-19T14:43:39.566-04:00

I am in Toronto for the next nine days for work. Which means I am for all intents and purposes falling off the face of the earth for a week and a half. Last night was an office-wide party. I specifically scheduled my trip to Canada so that I would get to cut the rug with my coworkers. We started a count of the number of times the presenter said 'Click again' since the handheld presentation

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-44250929406089663152008-05-25T14:18:00.000-04:002008-07-19T14:39:31.155-04:00

Having never ventured to Fire Island, I thought it would be fun to check it out for the day. My friends D and R went for the weekend, but my initial plan was to take the 1am ferry back. They actually charge double for it, perhaps to discourage all the drunks from boarding.We went to the Ocean Bay Park part of the island. I knew there was a "gay" part and a family part, but we ended up on the

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-67736900943835469942008-05-20T14:11:00.000-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.694-04:00

Not much to say about Helsinki. It is a safe, quiet, clean, polite, well-organized city, but after traveling through Russia, we were a bit, um, bored. It didn't help that we passed out for most of Sunday from sheer exhaustion, but most museums were closed yesterday. In fact, when we woke up on Sunday, most everything was closed. My aunt recommended two restaurants, and we made it to one of

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-6826125455683830612008-05-18T10:58:00.000-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.694-04:00

I can't believe the tour is over already. It seems like it's been such a short time here, too short in fact. Out of all the cities, I think Moscow has been my favorite. Granted it is super-crowded (over 10 million people) and congested (there are now 5 million cars, as opposed to 300,000 about 10 years ago), there is so much vibrance and energy that radiates throughout the whole city. For

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-51887811253546171092008-05-15T17:03:00.000-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.695-04:00

The weather in Russia at this time of year is quite interesting. We apparently have experienced phenomenal weather, with the sun actually making an appearance. In the three days we were in "Peter", it has also rained, drizzled, was overcast, and snowed. Novgorod, which I believe translates to "new city", is ironically the oldest city in Russia. What a depressing place! Ivan the Terrible

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-20581083082633705832008-05-13T15:52:00.000-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.695-04:00

So far am having a good time in Russia, my cousin's early morning blowdryer routine notwithstanding. We ended up in a brand-new hotel. The radiant-heat flooring and the rain shower are aweseome. St. Petersburg is a very elegant, stately city, at least what we have seen of it. It has elements of Paris, Vienna and Amsterdam. However, I think I prefer all of those cities to St. Petersburg.

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-51266863427169471652008-05-11T16:00:00.003-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.695-04:00

Just arrived in St. Petersburg and am friggin exhausted. Never again will I fly internationally in economy class. FinnAir is a good airline and all, decent food and service, but I just can't sleep when I'm upright and someone else's head is practically in my lap. When we arrive, I wonder if there was a crisis in the region as the immigration line is about fifty wide. Then I remember that

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-64950731921918653742008-05-06T23:32:00.000-04:002008-05-24T17:36:17.087-04:00

Today we got our raise and bonus letters a/k/a Envelope Day. The added perk to this is the office shuts down at 1pm for lunch and the inevitable afterparties. While I am not allowed to discuss the contents, I will say I'm happy, especially considering the economic climate and all the naysayers who are predicting these cataclysmic implosions on the balance sheets. My liver will not be happy

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-43610283812403270852008-05-04T19:25:00.001-04:002008-05-24T17:32:18.092-04:00

Yesterday was my mom's birthday, but she had to attend the first communion of a neighbor. So I took it upon myself to make Sunday Dinner for her. Since I was tall enough to stir, I have enjoyed cooking, especially like trying new recipes, Nigella being one of my reliable faves. It's been a while since I've cooked and had people over. I used to really enjoy cooking as a couple, but that fell

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-23213602369651832942008-04-26T17:21:00.002-04:002011-03-23T18:46:00.696-04:00

I am back for the second year in a row for a wine tour in Amador County, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The weather is perfect, as it was yesterday for a hike in a national park that was almost turned into a dam. My friend M of course takes me to the clothing-optional watering hole. Get your minds out of the gutter, I kept my bathing suit on. In addition to Bray, which we hit last

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6249524.post-45550068218672531252008-04-20T09:53:00.004-04:002008-05-24T17:21:01.461-04:00

Purchasing an Admirals Club membership (with miles no less) was the best thing I ever did. The Flagship Lounge in JFK near the lower number gates is serene and comfy, just what I need before a long haul cross-country. Chag sameach to all my friends in the Tribe celebrating Passover. Trying to see if any friends on the left coast are having Seder tonight that I can crash.***UPDATE 4/21/2008:

valeriefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01810284191020409666noreply@blogger.com0