the Chill Family

A silver lining...

2011-09-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

As you all know, it's been 10 years since 9/11. I've managed to avoid most of the TV specials about this date, and I've tried not to revisit too many images from this day.

Most of you probably remember where you were on that day. I don't remember too much, but I do remember, I was in my room at Bryn Mawr. It was about 8:40 am and I was up, getting ready for class (which during that year was a rarity that I was up that early!). I turned on the TV for background noise, and then I saw what was happening. I couldn't believe it. I thought maybe it was a movie.

I recalled that my dad worked near the buildings, but not sure exactly where. I was trying to reach my dad and my mom, while my aunt was calling me and my AIM chat windows were popping up like crazy. I knew I had friends whose parents worked in the buildings; people from our church, my parents friends, etc. Growing up in north Jersey, a good percentage of people we knew worked in that area.

I needed to know if my dad was okay. I soon found out he was okay, and he was making his way to a ferry. I'll share his story here as he told me because he doesn't talk about it much.

The morning of 9/11, he was on the PATH which he takes to the WTC building. Every day, he exits the WTC building and walks across the street to his office building, Deutsch Bank. This morning was the same routine, except as we walked out of the building, he looked up towards the sky and was shocked to see a plane flying so close. Then before he knew it, the plane hit the building and my dad ran to his building and into his office. When he made it into his office, he called my mom to share what he just witnessed. He was okay, but was shaken up, I'm sure. He was staring out the window as he talked to her, and he saw the 2nd plane hit. That's when he knew he had to run. He hung up with my mom and promised to call later, and he left. He left his leather jacket behind, his laptop, and other personal items. He left with only his wallet and his phone.

Not sure what happened between then and getting to Battery Park, but he made it to the Park, called my mom again, and eventually caught a ferry back to New Jersey. Many hours later, he made it home.

When my mom called to say he was out of the building, I was so relieved. I knew my family was lucky to have him home.

As much as my family pretends 9/11 wasn't a tramatic experience for them (my dad to this day plays it off as it was no big deal and doesn't talk about it much) it was. Lots of changes came about because of this day. My dad made a decision to move away from NYC. He had been there during the 1993 WTC bombing and now this, and he was done. He put our house on the market and moved to Dallas and soon found a new house and job. My mom soon followed after my sister graduated college. Around the same time, my parents love began to grow. They didn't have the best relationship, but by the time my dad moved to Dallas, he was a new man, and it showed.

It took me a long to go back and visit Ground Zero. Everytime I thought about it, I thought of how I almost lost my dad and thought of those we did lose. Seeing the pictures posted all along the subways was hard, and driving to my family home in NJ was hard because the skyline was drastically different. When my family relocated to Dallas, I rarely drove up that way, and I guess in some way, I started to forget.

A few weeks ago, I was in NYC for a client meeting and to see friends, and my hotel was in the financial district. It wasn't until I checked in that I realized that my hotel overlooked Ground Zero. It was literally next to it, and my window looked into the construction in that area. I wondered if this hotel was where my dad's building was.

10 years later, I feel like there is definite healing in my family. We've all become American citizens since, my family is healthy and happy, and we've all learned not to take each other for granted. I know we are lucky and I am always thankful for that.

Best email in a while...

2011-06-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

My good friend Ying sent me an email this morning:

"For a good time, call Senor Hill."

Ha! My first event out of the hospital was Ying and Erick's wedding (FINALLY!), and we knew it was going to a fabulous event. Not only was it beautiful and classy, it was fun and silly. They had fun plastic glasses and mustaches, which we all soon started to place all over our faces (my favorite was the cHill unibrow and side burns action). Above is a pic of the bride with my husband looking creepy.

More recently, we had the pleasure of experiencing a pig roast! Our friend Link hosts one each year, and this was our first time. He has this cool pig roasting box, where the pig is butterflied, and then placed in the box, and charcoal is placed on top of the box. It was really cool. The meat was falling off and was succulent, and really delicious. I didn't even need any bbq sauce - just plain with a side of vinegared cucumbers. Yummo!

In preparations for our vacation (tomorrow!), I've been working out and trying to do more yoga at home. It's hard to get out to the studios (Jai or Bikram) so sometimes I just make up stuff in my living room. I found a cool yoga app made by Deepak Chopra and his personal yoga teacher (the "rebellious" Tara Stiles, who also makes cute videos on youtube). Mr. Chill thinks yoga is just like stretching, which really irked me, because indeed I was sweating while doing side planks and warrior poses. They are not easy!

Anywho, seems like Oscar hopped on the yoga bandwagon with me. Here he is doing his version of the child's pose.

In early June, Liz and Lydz and I went to the Glee! Concert at Wells Fargo. Yes, as you can see from my pic below, our seats were super close and I even got to kiss Trouty Mouth! Just kidding.

We were up in the press seats, which was cool because we were able to see the whole arena. The concert actually used the main stage and smaller stage at the other end, and they danced inbetween, so we got to see everything. It was a fun concert and made me miss my musical days at school.

After watching Glee in concert and taking a few hip hop classes at my gym, I think I'm inspired to take on more dance classes, probably at Koresh. We'll see.... depends on my scheduled. But I also have some bikram classes left on my card, so I should probably do those first (but sweating in a 100 degree room then walking out to a 100 degrees outside is not my definition of fun).

In the meantime, looks like I'll be focusing on snorkeling, relaxing, getting massages, and doing some yoga in Grenada! We leave tomorrow and we are so excited. Mr. Chill and I haven't taken a vacation together alone since our honeymoon so we are looking forward to it. We have some separate trips planned - him scubadiving while I'm at the spa, but we also have 4 days of nothing! We plan on actually leaving the hotel a few times for the local fish fry in Gouave and maybe doing some spice shopping and check out some local restaurants. I hope I remember to take some pictures!

In health related news, I'm finally on my max dose of Azathioprine and I'm excited. My weekly blood draws are exhausting and my poor veins have had enough, but I guess it's important to keep track of my levels. My hemoglobin never got past 10, so the doc put me back on iron pills (blech). My last test indicated a normal level, so I volunteered to stop taking it (oops, forgot to tell my doctor that). My prednisone is now 5mg which is almost nothing to me (especially after taking 60 mg!), so i'm hoping all my side effects will go away soon, and hopefully while I'm on vacation, but I am seriously tired of my acne and overally puffiness in my face and body.

That's it! :) I can't wait to share my experience in Grenada once I get back!

Things are good

2011-04-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

... although I look gross.

But when I think about how I felt vs how I look now, I guess I'd rather feel good. Prednisone does some nasty things to your body. While it may help me get into remission, it also does wreak havoc with everything else. Check out this list of side effects!

The following adverse reactions have been reported with Prednisone or other corticosteroids:

Allergic Reactions:
anaphylactoid or hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylaxis, angioedema.
Cardiovascular System
bradycardia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac enlargement, circulatory collapse, congestive heart failure, ECG changes caused by potassium deficiency, edema, fat embolism, hypertension or aggravation of hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in premature infants, myocardial rupture following recent myocardial infarction, necrotizing angiitis, pulmonary edema, syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, vasculitis.
Dermatologic
acne, acneiform eruptions, allergic dermatitis, alopecia, angioedema, angioneurotic edema, atrophy and thinning of skin, dry scaly skin, ecchymoses and petechiae (bruising), erythema, facial edema, hirsutism, impaired wound healing, increased sweating, Karposi’s sarcoma, lupus erythematosus-like lesions, perineal irritation, purpura, rash, striae, subcutaneous fat atrophy, suppression of reactions to skin tests, striae, telangiectasis, thin fragile skin, thinning scalp hair, urticaria.
Endocrine
Adrenal insufficiency-greatest potential caused by high potency glucocorticoids with long duration of action (associated symptoms include; arthralgias, buffalo hump, dizziness, life-threatening hypotension, nausea, severe tiredness or weakness), amenorrhea, postmenopausal bleeding or other menstrual irregularities, decreased carbohydrate and glucose tolerance, development of cushingoid state, diabetes mellitus (new onset or manifestations of latent), glycosuria, hyperglycemia, hypertrichosis, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics, lipids abnormal, moon face, negative nitrogen balance caused by protein catabolism, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness (particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness), suppression of growth in pediatric patients.
Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances
congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, fluid retention, hypokalemia, hypokalemic alkalosis, metabolic alkalosis, hypotension or shock-like reaction, potassium loss, sodium retention with resulting edema.
Gastrointestinal
abdominal distention, abdominal pain,anorexia which may result in weight loss, constipation, diarrhea, elevation in serum liver enzyme levels (usually reversible upon discontinuation), gastric irritation, hepatomegaly, increased appetite and weight gain, nausea, oropharyngeal candidiasis, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, perforation of the small and large intestine (particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease), ulcerative esophagitis, vomiting.
Hematologic
anemia, neutropenia (including febrile neutropenia).
Metabolic
negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism.
Musculoskeletal
arthralgias, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads, increase risk of fracture, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, myalgias, osteopenia, osteoporosis, pathologic fracture of long bones, steroid myopathy, tendon rupture (particularly of the Achilles tendon), vertebral compression fractures.
Neurological/Psychiatric
amnesia, anxiety, benign intracranial hypertension, convulsions, delirium, dementia (characterized by deficits in memory retention, attention, concentration, mental speed and efficiency, and occupational performance), depression, dizziness, EEG abnormalities, emotional instability and irritability, euphoria, hallucinations, headache, impaired cognition, incidence of severe psychiatric symptoms, increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudotumor cerebri) usually following discontinuation of treatment, increased motor activity, insomnia, ischemic neuropathy, long-term memory loss, mania, mood swings, neuritis, neuropathy, paresthesia, personality changes, psychiatric disorders including steroid psychoses or aggravation of pre-existing psychiatric conditions, restlessness, schizophrenia, verbal memory loss, vertigo, withdrawn behavior.
Ophthalmic
blurred vision, cataracts (including posterior subcapsular cataracts), central serous chorioretinopathy, establishment of secondary bacterial, fungal and viral infections, exophthalmos, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, optic nerve damage, papilledema.
Other
abnormal fat deposits, aggravation/masking of infections, decreased resistance to infection, hiccups, immunosuppresion, increased or decreased motility and number of spermatozoa, malaise, insomnia, moon face, pyrexia.

Um yeah, it sucks. My face looks all puffy, I have acne on my forehead, and all last week and weekend I had fat swollen feet that were painful with a side of cankles. Oh and bloat, unsatiable hunger, and the crazy mood swings. Although, I don't think I'm moody, but my husband seems to think so, especially in the morning. (Shhh... I'm just not a morning person).
Good news is that I've already started the taper, so hopefully by our June vacation, I will be prednisone free, and my face swelling will have gone down and all other side effects will be gone too.

I am also on Imuran (azathioprine) and my doc and I are slowing increasing the dosage of this drug. This drug, if all goes well, should keep me in remission for a long time. So far so good and haven't had any side effects from it yet. I do have to get weekly blood tests to monitor my CBC and liver panel, but everything has been good so far. My hemoglobin is still low (9.5 last week), but I'm eating more meat and have now added vitamin C, so hopefully my iron will be absorbed better. I feel great - I don't feel lethargic or tired at all.

In fact recently, I've been doing so much! Weekly vinyasa yoga classes at Jai and going to the gym (lifting again and doing cardio). Also been reading a lot:

Amazon

This book actually really isn't that good. Ha. It's about a 30 year old girl who's trying to find a husband, deal with her father's death, find purpose in her life, and also deal with ulcerative colitis. It's an okay book. I read it just because it was about UC.

But to prepare for the new HBO Game of Thrones series, Chris and I have started to read the book series.

Amazon

I actually didn't think I'd like it, but I do! I'm still on book 2, and Chris is flying through the series, but I like it, despite the fact it has zombies and dragons, and it's a bit "fairy tale" - ish... but it's good. The show so far is pretty close to the book and just got picked up for season 2 so we're excited.

Aside from reading and working out (to fight the fat, fluid retention, and excessive eating), I've been doing a lot of cooking and baking. For the first few weeks since being home, I had to watch what I ate, so I had to cook, but I tried to find fun things to make so that Chris would enjoy too, like: fish tacos, chicken quesadillas, shepherds pie, curry chicken pot pie, banana muffins, sourcream coffee cake... and now I've started to eat spicy foods and added kimchi back into my diet. Oh heavens, I'm so happy now.

One of my best friends got married this weekend so that was a very happy occasion. We also had our first cHill Weddings wedding this weekend as well. A few weekends ago, my oldest friend came to visit and we went to Osteria and dined like kings and queens. This weekend, another great friend is coming to visit. Soon I will be in Dallas celebrating my sister's graduation, then we'll be in the thick of wedding season...

I couldn't be more thankful for my health now. I'm happy I can function again and be with my friends and family.

Good husband tested

2011-04-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

When we took our vows almost 4 years ago, we promised to be there for each other in sickness and in health, no matter what. Chris always knew about my disease, but he never really saw it manifested until after we got married. My first big flare that he witnessed was in 2008 while we were preparing to move into our new home. My business was up and running, and I had a new day job. We still had to pack and had settlement coming up, and all I could manage was to lie on the couch in pain. I remember that was a learning experience for both of us, him trying to comfort me, while me trying to hide the pain and function to the best of my ability. Eventually my parents came from Dallas to help me finish pack and I had my first colonoscopy in 5 years. Within a few days, I was back to normal, and we got settled into our new home and my flare became a distant memory.

Since then, things were manageable. I was home a lot so I had more time to rest. My doctor at the time didn't suggest anything new, which should have been a sign to find a new doc.

This time around, chris encouraged me to find a new doc. He left for work one day while I stayed in bed, and gave me one assignment: find and talk to a new doctor. So I did. I was able to secure an appointment for the following day! And I was hopeful. Of course, that's not how the story ended and I wound up in the hospital. But leading up to my admittance day, I tried to be strong, and push through my work, my life, and daily living without being bothersome. It wasn't until my doc suggested I be admitted, I called chris up immediately with never ending tears. Tears not because I was in pain, but sadness because I felt like for the first time this disease beat me. But chris was supportive and talked me through it. The night before I went to the hospital, he made me a great meal and tucked me into bed and just loved me. Later I found out he was just as nervous, but instead of showing that, he comforted me.

Each day he came to be with me, either coming in the morning, or coming during the day, or somethings, multiple visits during the day! And he still had to work! When he wasn't with me, he called, texted, and emailed and asked for updates and kept me entertained. He woke up early every morning and fed and walked Oscar, went to work, visited me, when home and fed and walked Oscar again, and came back to visit until visiting hours ended. He came bearing whatever I needed plus clean pjs every day. One lucky days, he brought me delicious broth or food if I was allowed to eat. He encouraged me to get up and walk around the hospital so my legs would get some exercise. He'd take me by the hand and we'd sit outside and talk, or explore around the hospital, or raid the gift shop.

For someone who usually finds the funny in everything, chris was very serious during my hospital stays. He carried stress, as if he was trying to carry my pain along with all the responsibilities he had at home. I knew it wasn't easy for him, but he never complained and always doted on me with a loving heart. When my friends all asked how he was, my heart broke for him because I knew this was a lot for him to handle, but he did, and he did it alone, all for me.

I always knew he was amazing. I always knew he was a wonderful husband, but he really went over and beyond my expectations. He was simply a godsend and my angel and because of him, I was able to be strong and get better quickly. I wanted to be home with him again.

A nurse noted that my heart rate jumped while taking my vitals when Chris called my room. She giggled and said, "You must really love him." And I do. I never doubted it before, but being in a situation like this, both of our true colors were shown, and Chris was amazing and strong each and every day for me and for our little family, and for that, I will always be grateful to him.

The chatty, the miserable, the smelly

2011-03-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

Those are the nicknames of the 3 roommates I had during my stay.

Roommate #1: the chatty.
She had already been in the hospital for 1 week after a bad night of drinking. Apparently she drank herself silly and passed out in her hallway and woke up with no sensation in her left leg. She was taken to the ER and later found out she had kidney failure. She was a roommate for the next two days, and she kept bitching that she wanted to go outside to have a cigarette. I understood the first time she cried about it, but it got very old quickly. She also tended to talk to me and share too much about herself, but I usually had headphones on, so I couldn't really hear her. I wasn't trying to be rude, but the hallways are loud and drowning out the world with my endless Netflix shows was helping me get through the day. The craziest part is that the entire week she was there, she never left her room. She didn't go walk the hallways, she didn't even walk to the bathroom. She did have crutches and a walker if she wanted to use it, but she stayed in her bed all day and used her bedside commode instead. She didn't start to walk her iv to the bathroom until she saw me doing it. One day, chris came over and took me outside to enjoy the sun. While outside, I saw another patient come out in her hospital gown and smoke a cigarette. I wasnt trying to be mean, but thought miss chatty would find inspiration to go outside. It didn't work.On her way out, she told me to look her up on facebook. This was after she told me her cliff notes version story of her life of drugs, rehab, food stamps, and living with other junkies. I couldn't handle it. The night she left, I had the room to myself and it was quiet and peaceful.

Roommate #2: the miserable. Oy. This one was bad. She came into the room already upset and mean. She wandered the halls looking for nurses and asking too many incoherent questions. The nurses asked her to stay in bed and change into her gown, but she resisted and insisted on food. The nurses said no to food because she was going to get an iv and possible surgery, but miss miserable went and got vending machine food anyway. I'm not exactly sure why she was admitted, but she had some heart problems and something wrong with her foot. I think they were going to operate on her foot. I'm sure she was in a lot of pain. She had been popping precocets for too long, enough for the nurses to call up the doctor. Miss miserable kept insisting on more pain meds saying it was making her feel worse, so they changed the meds. She kept threatening to take her own pain pills. One time, my favorite nurse asked how comfortable she was with the pain and she said she was in pain but became all skeptical and paranoid and refused pain meds. I don't think she was all there. She stayed for two nights until her surgery, and those two nights, she did not sleep at all and kept all her light on and tv on all night. I let it go because I knew she was in pain and if tv distracted her, fine by me, as long as she wasnt moaning or being mean to the nurses. Every doctor and nurse would visit her and then walk by my bed rolling their eyes or give me a sympathetic "sorry you have to deal with her all day" look. She eventually went into surgery and stayed on a different floor. My face nurse told me he asked them to keep her there and not bring her back. So I had another wonderful night alone. It was heaven!

Roommate #3: the smelly. 92 year old diabetic women with impaired hearing was my new roommate. For her age, you'd think she wouldnt all be there, especially since she couldn't really hear you. But when I heard her on the phone or talking to her sons who visited, she was alert and so sweet. I'm not too sure why she was there- she had some vomiting issues, which subsided quickly. Since she was old and had a hard time moving on her own, she also used the bed side commode, which was placed against the curtain separating me and her. It seemed like a very bad idea the instant she used it. The smell....oh the smell! And it wasnt poop either because she said she hadn't had a BM in days. She also wet herself a few times. But she was so timid and quiet, she never rang for the nurse and sat and waited until they came. So I'd ring the nurse or find one in the hallway so they could change her and clean out her toilet. A few times a day, her IV pump would beep because it ran out of fluid or the fluid wasn't reaching her bc she had her arms bent, but it would beep and beep and beep and beep.... So I'd call the nurses for her. As annoying as it was, I didn't mind bc she was so sweet and despite the smell, the best roommate I had. But she was odd. Sometimes when I'd sit at the side of my bed to work on my laptop or write in my journal, I'd see her little old feet in hospital footies dangling over the side of her bed. It was pretty disturbing because I knew she wasnt reading anything and was infact facing her commode. Maybe she was wishing for the toilet to clean itself. Or she was watching my shadow. Or she fell asleep. Or died. A few times I worried she'd die because she was old and sick. She wasnt hooked up to any heart monitor so I worried no one would know if she did... So I checked in on her every time I got up for something.
She left the night before I was discharged, so I had another solo night where I had the best sleep. I decided to keep the door closed for the rest of the day until I left to prevent any new roommates from entering. :)

So I went on a little vacation...

2011-03-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

To Temple Hospital... for 9 nights. I think it may be my most expensive vacation yet, but hopefully my health insurance will come through.

So where to begin?

Just a warning, this is a very personal post, one I contemplated for a while if I should even share. Maybe if not for recent events, I may have kept all of this to myself, but I think it's good to open and honest and also if it helps someone else, even better!

Okay, let's start from the top.

In May 2000, my senior year in highschool, I was diagnosed with acute ulcerative colitis, an auto immune inflammatory bowel disease. Basically, my immune system kicks into high gear and attacks food and good bacteria in my gut, which causes inflammation. Usually, it's easy to treat with meds and diet, but sometimes it's more stubborn and can linger for months. My general health has always been good, so I would "flare" once every two years or so, and the flare would only stay for a few weeks, and I was back and in remission. One thing to note about ulcerative colitis is that there is no cure except surgery.

The last few years have been tiring. When I was young and in college and feeling great, I stopped taking my maintenance meds because heck, I was young and vibrant! I didn't need any meds especially when I was feeling normal. Looking back, I should've stayed on it. If I did, those meds which have very low side effects could still be working in me. But it stopped working years ago. So we tried slightly stronger doses, along with higher does of prednisone, which really is an awful drug to be on, especially when you're on it 6 months out of the year, for 3 years. Fluctuating weight gain and loss, fluid retention, bad skin breakouts, moodiness, risk of glaucoma and osteoporosis... I knew I needed to get off this, especially when I realized it stopped working too.

I was fed up with feeling lethargic and tired, and I wasn't my 100%. I kept getting sick from one thing or another, which just aggrevated my UC, so I decided to change doctors and try a new course of treatment. So on March 8, I met my new awesome doctor at Temple Digestive Diseases Center and we came up with a new plan. I was going to stay on my high dose of prednisone until my colonoscopy (which was scheduled for 3/24) and then we'd start a new drug called azathioprine (brand name Imuran). Azathioprine is an immunomodulator that suppresses my immune system, and this drug is usually given to transplant patients at much higher doses. Many UC people stay on this drug and are in remission for many many years, so I was hopeful. But as the days went on, I was light headed, and got winded when coming down the stairs. It took all my strength to take my dog on a walk around the block and my symptoms were not getting better. I was at a loss at what to do, so I called my doctor and she told me to get admitted so they can start me on IV steriods.

So on St. Patty's Day, while everyone else was out celebrating and drinking, I was at Temple bright and early getting a cat scan of my belly. Then I slept in my doctor's exam room while the hospital got a room ready for me. Only 6 hours later, I finally had a bed, and I slumped into it, exhausted. I hadn't eaten all day except for a little cup of soup that Chris brought over for me.

Immediately after I was admitted, my favorite nurse, Tony, set up my IV line and got some fluids in me while I got my blood drawn. A few hours later, the intern told me that my hemoglobin level was a 5.7 (normal is 12) and that I needed to get some blood right away. It was a wonder that I was able to walk around the hospital that day. So that night, we started my IV steriods and my 2 units of some strangers' blood. As someone who's always wanted to give blood but couldn't because of my meds, I was so extremely grateful for all those who do give blood regularly. I never thought I'd be in a hospital getting blood, but these blood transfusions, 3 total, really revived me. I had no idea I was so anemic, but I was darn glad I came in, before I fainted or worse.

Chug chug chug - I felt like a vampire for two days. I wasn't allowed to eat anything for most of Thursday or Friday. Eventually, they put me on a low residue diet that only lasted 1 meal, but boy, was it a great meal! Tanti brought some sweet rice in tofu skin which I had with the sides of egg and soy sauced potatoes that Liz brought along with my jjuk (korean rice porridge). It was like heaven, after not eating anything for over 24 hours.

But that didn't last long.

The docs put me back on clear liquids:

Bland chicken broth, cherry jello, cherry italian ice (which was good!), and lots of watered down juices like cranberry and apple juice (stay away from their "grape juice"). They also offered me tea, but any caffeine makes my gut go hay wire, so I avoided that.

Because my symptoms weren't much better, the docs moved up my colonoscopy to the 21st (from the 24th). Since I was inpatient, they were able to get me in first thing that Monday morning. Once they decided that, I was back to NPO (nothing by mouth) the day before the procedure. At 4pm, I started drinking this....

My normal prep for colonoscopy is gatorade and a dissolveable tasteless solution, but inpatients get this. I sent this picture to Chris who texted back "Please make sure that is not antifreeze." Of course, I had researched it on my UC forums and got some tips on how to make this easy. Liz and Lydia were over to help me with this. Lydia chilled a full pitcher of this gross liquid in ice, and poured me two small glasses every 10 minutes. I chugged it like a champ, then I'd bend over from freezing pain in my stomach, then rest, and repeat. Fortunately because I was on a clear liquid diet for the day before and no food that day, the prep went really smoothly and I only needed to drink half. The whole process took me 2 hours instead of the usual 4.

The next day was my procedure, and I was excited. I thought, once I'm done, I can start eating again!! That was my hope, what got me through the past few days of not really eating.

The bad news was my colonoscopy was terminated early. My insides looked so inflamed they couldn't see any further without risk of perforation. I was so disappointed. I was even more disappointed when no one came to talk to me about food afterwards! I went all day waiting for a doctor to visit me, and it wasn't until later that afternoon, they told me I had to be on further "bowel rest," meaning NPO some more for a few days. The good news was, it didn't look like I needed surgery, but we needed to weigh the options of different treatments. But they wanted to give my guts time to heal on it's own. That day was a very bad day. I tried to be strong the entire time I was in the hospital. I didn't have too much pain, but I felt like I was being punished and starved. I didn't have any new answers. I had also received some terrible news about a family friend, and I was on a very high dose of steriods which recked my mood. I cried all day. When I wasn't crying it was because I was sleeping or just lost in thought. Liz came over that day and just laid next to me in bed while we watched a movie in silence. It was just what I needed.

The next day was much better. Despite not being able to eat, I had a nice long talk with my actual GI, who I love, did I mention that already? We made a Plan A, Plan B, and Plan C (surgery). We were crossing our fingers for Plan A, which was continue with steriods and "treat from both ends" then start azathioprine as originally planned. Plan B was Remicade, which is biologic drug made from mouse dna and has a less success rate, and the rate decreases as time goes by. Just like azathioprine, there are some major side effects, but they're low enough to take the risk. However, if I didn't need it, I don't want it. So in the future, I'd rather have surgery to get rid of this disease once and for all if my azathioprine stops working. That was my major revelation that day.

I forget when, but eventually I was given the go ahead for "heavy liquids" which was things like cream of wheat and shakes. Um, their cream of wheat was disgusting, so I settled with this shake:

It wasn't too horrible. At this point, I was happy to have something with any taste in my mouth. I ended up drinking 3 of these that day as my meals. By the next day (Friday), I was allowed a low residue diet. Of course, they dinner tray was barely edible - had some fish that I stuck between a dinner roll. Had a sip of gingerale, which I promptly realized carbonated drinks do not do any good for me. I waited until Chris came to visit for his daily visit, and we had a romantic dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy and some yellow cake (no chocolate allowed for this girl).

Saturday early morning, I was cleared for discharge! I wasn't 100% or completely symptom free but my meds finally kicked in and I got my life back. I was able to eat normal (as normal as I can for now) food and had no pain or cramps, so that was good. My instructions were to come in for a follow up next week to get more blood work done to get ready for my azathioprine. This new treatment will be a pain... weekly blood work to make sure my liver and pancreas is okay and they slowly increase the dose until they reach my max level without killing me. :) The side effects of this drug is higher risk of lymphoma and skin cancer. So, my new project is to find cute bathing suits with UV protection, best high SPF sunscreen, cute big rimmed hats, and coverups for my June trip to Grenada!

Here are some pics of my little hospital room:

My dresser that was also full with flowers from great friends. I also received a lovely sexy card that kept me happy. And my phone was always ringing with friends and family with their words of comfort and support.

This is the part of the room I was looking at most of the time. It reminded me what the date was and who my nurses were.

But during the day, this was me. Laptop connected (great wifi at Temple!), either working on wedding clients emails and tasks, watching Modern Family, or hooked up to my ipad watching Seasons 1-3 of Greys Anatomy.

The great thing was, I was in good spirits most of the time during my hospital stay. Aside from that one bad Monday, I was okay. I was hopeful, optimistic, so grateful to Chris and our friends for their support. I also knew it could've been worse, a lot worse. I could still be there with one less body part. And maybe one day I will, but until then, I'm hopeful that my strength will help me get better.

I start yoga tomorrow so I can get my strength back. I've lost almost 20 lbs since I've been sick (not a diet I recommend). Ironically, I'm at my ideal weight, but of course, I've lost a lot of muscle. So for the new few weeks, I'll be focusing on my eating right until I'm in remission, learning precisely what foods work and do not work for me, practice yoga, learn to meditate, and also learn to listen to my body and it's signals for stress.

This was my long serious post. Since I've spoken to various people about my disease, people have been opening up to me about their belly issues. UC and Crohn's Disease is scary, especially if left untreated. It can lead to colon cancer or toximegacolon. Talking to doctors about your bowels and poops and other gross stuff can be embarassing, but we all have a sense of humor! I urge all people over the age of 50 to get checked for colon cancer regularly. I really urge all young people with any bowel pain to get checked out as well.

Okay, I'm off my soap box! My next post will be about the roommates I had during my stay. The chatty, the miserable, and the smelly.

What we've been up to - eating a lot apparently!

2011-01-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

We did have Thanksgiving at our place!

And Chef Chill made the world's best turkey and our family had a feast!

My family loved being dined at Restaurant Hill. It was fun! I also got to use all my wedding china and stemware.

The next day, our family did a photoshoot in our living room and took some glamourous photos. It's about time our family had nice pictures together that didn't include a wedding dress.

My cousins and aunt/uncle from Baltimore also joined in on the Thanksgiving fun and photoshoot. Here's a picture of all of us being silly.

A few weeks later, Chill and I headed south to Naples, Florida to see potential retirement areas for my in-laws. Although the weather was not as cold as it was the week prior, it was still too chilly to swim at the beach. But we did relax by the community's super nice pool.

We took Chill's parents out to Truluck's seafood and had an amazing dinner.

Here's a random pic of Oscar! He's doing well and has not eaten anything crazy or done anything stupid in a while.

I bought a new little griddle and Chris and I have been grilling (griddling?) korean bbq on it about 1x a week. Who needs korean restaurants when you can do it in your own home?

Just before Christmas, this little pumpkin was born. He belongs to our good friends Andrew and Jessie, and Baby Jack is the cutest baby ever.

It's been snowing a lot here... I think it was after Christmas that we got like a foot of snow. Here's Oscar posing in from of our home as the snow fell around him.

For Christmas, my in-laws got me a new slowcooker and I've been going crazy with it! The first dish I made in it (successfully) was Korean Galbi Jim. It's so easy to make and let it sit all day while I work.

One of the new dishes I made was Carbonara (Giada's recipe). It was good - but I think I'm not a fan of Carbonara. Chill loved it and was disappointed I didn't like it because it then meant I wouldn't make it anymore.

I also made homemade YukGaeJang (courtesy of http://www.maangchi.com/) and it was awesome. Chill said it was better than any he's had a restaurant (and maybe even my mom's!). It was pretty damn good.

For NYEs, instead of staying in and falling asleep before the ball dropped, a group of us went into the city via fancy SUV limo and went to a party and had a great time! Here's me at the end of the night- happy and tired and enjoying my ride home in style.

Oscar update

2010-12-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

So it's been over a month since Oscar's surgery, and he's doing great!

It's been fun to have a half shaved dog around the house, but now the hair seems to be growing back!

Here are some pics of him being lazy...

And more of him sleeping. It's like he's crossing his legs here.

My parents came to visit for Thanksgiving this year, and they were worried about Oscar's size and him eating things, etc... and I was worried they wouldn't love Oscar. Well, they all became buds and Oscar was so sad to see them all go. Papa Kim went on a brisk walk with Mr. Chill and Oscar the first night and eventually let Oscar lie on the couch next to him. Mama Kim fearlessly entered the kitchen and introduced her to Oscar then ran out when he tried to sniff her crotch. But he knew she wasn't to be messed with!

We had other family visiting as well, and aside from one night of Oscar trying to be a wise ass, he was otherwise wonderful. He would fall asleep under the dining room table where everyone was and sleep and sniff peoples toes. Sometimes he would sit next to someone and wait for some food to fall from the table, with drool hanging in anticipation.

No socks or iPhones went missing, although he did try to walk off with my sister's socks for a quick second. But with 9 people in the house, someone was always keeping in eye on Mr. Mischievious!

Mr. Chill's Birthday Weekend --> Oscar fiasco

2010-10-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

Last week, we noticed Oscar was very sick, vomiting and lethargic and refusing to eat. The very next day, he was fine! So we assumed he ate or licked some crazy psychodelic mushroom in our backyard. Then a few days later, he started showing the same symptoms, but it persisted for over 24 hours.

Thursday, I worked from home and scheduled him to see a vet at our local vet.

They took some blood work and thought it would be kidney, liver, or lyme disease, but unlikely, so they just sent him home after they gave him an anti-vomiting injection and instructions on how to administer OTC prevacid.

Oscar was definitely a bit more lucid during this time. So we waiting another 24 hours for the Prevacid to work. Meanwhile his anti-vomiting injection (Cerenia) was wearing off and he began vomitting again and was still refusing food.

Do you see a resemblance?

This is Oscar Saturday. His eyes were starting to glaze over and he was super lethargic. We had bunch of cleaners over and he barely noticed them. We kept him comfortable with lots of bedding upstairs while we waited for blood test results.

Eventually around noon we hear that his blood test is fine and they recommended we take him to an emergency vet since he was getting worse. So we rushed him to Metropolitan Vet and very quickly they took him in for an xray and found something worthy enough for the surgeon to go in for exploratory surgery.

So we said our good bye to Oscar, who was already hooked up to IVs in the triage room, and gave him many kisses while he looked on with dazed eyes.

Hours went by. His surgery was pushed back because the hospital got slammed with weekend emergencies. Around 9pm we heard he was out and waking up and the surgery went well and they found some rubber in his intestine that caused a blockage. They also reinforced other areas of the intestine where it looked like it was perforated and started to self heal. Lastly, they did an extra surgery to secure his huge stomach, to prevent his stomach from twisting.

Sunday morning, we went about our day thinking we wouldn't see him until Monday night the earliest. We got a call around 4 saying he was stable and eating (HUZZAH!) and might be ready to go home that night. So at 9, we left the house to pick up our baby boy and brought home a very stoned dog.

He's on simpleclef antibiotics, metacam (pain reliever and anti-inflammatory) and tramadol (pain killer). Tramadol, we discovered last night, also makes him pain very heavily at night. I think Chris got maybe two hours of sleep last night. We decided to each take a day and work from home to keep a close eye on him, so Chris slept on the couch to make sure Oscar was still breathing and alive.

We are very happy he's alive and was able to get surgery. Sure, it drained us of our Italy vacation money, but y'know, when your baby is in so much pain, we were willing to do anything to make him better. We've extremly thankful it wasn't anything too serious that was going to chronic or be a lifetime of pain management. It's going to be a rough couple of days with recovering, but once the staples are out, hopefully we'll have our rambunctious pup back!

Now, this weekend was supposed to be Chris' birthday weekend, but of course, was overshadowed by all this. However, we did get a chance to go out and grab a nice dinner at Vetris, and Chris got successfully drunk off the wine pairings. He insisted I take some pictures of the food, but my iphone sucks with pictures in dark places, but here are the only 2 pictures I took of the food.

Chris' veal sweetbreads. It was delicious.

Possibly my favorite platter of the night. Vetri's famous pastrami fois gras with pear chutney and brioche, a pastry filled with fish mouse, and something else I can't remember but was delicious!

So there's our weekend update. Hopefully this week will be very uneventful and Oscar will not try to remove any staples himself.

New recipe!

2010-09-03T08:54:00.000-07:00

So here's an updated list of my 30 before 30:

1. Go scuba diving (if I can get my ear tubes taken out). If not, sky diving.

2. Take a cooking class.

3. Finish off my wedding china and ~~silverware~~. Yay! Just ordered the rest of my flatware yesterday.

4. ~~Eat something local or organic once a day.~~ Become a member of Weavers Way Coop (this way I spend my grocery dollars there instead of Acme or other places that do not promote local/organic/or natural beef, chicken, pork, and eggs.

5. Try to get up on water skis

6. Go to Tuscany, or Greece, or anywhere else!

7. Go to Paris

8. Makeover the master bedroom

9. Quit my day job

10. Throw a gala.

11. Watch the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy in one sitting.

12. Read an entire book in French.

13. Read a philosphy book (recommendations?)

14. Go to bikram 3x a week for 4 weeks in a row

15. Look hot in a bikini.

16. Plan an awesome baby shower for a friend or family member.

17. Learn a new piano piece (suggestions?)

18. Fix the bannisters.

19. Finally get my wedding album made.

20. Organize a book club

21. Try 20 new recipes. Tried receipe #1 this week. See below!

22. Get my wedding ring/engagement ring cleaned and tightened

23. Start saving for retirement.

24. Write a will.

25. Write in my leather journal once a week 4 weeks in a row (and try to keep writing). On week two!

26. Take a pole dancing class.

27. Get a better camera and learn how to take better photos.

28. Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity or something similar

29. Go to church

30. Have my family over for Thanksgiving, and give them a very special evening.

**********************

I love cooking and I usually am good with recipes. I particularly love experimenting and taking a tried and true recipe and adding or subbing, to make it even more interesting. But the purpose of task #21 is to get me to try new methods and open up my world to home-cooking.

I tried this one: Salmon Cannelloni with Lemon Cream Sauce: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Salmon-Cannelloni-with-Lemon-Cream-Sauce-236980

It was okay. The salmon was from Weavers Way Coop, along with most of the other ingredients. It was fun making crepe, which I learned I was pretty good at. They weren't perfectly round, but good enough. However, I can't take all the credit. My non-stick pan was a rock star.

The cream sauce was okay. I read the other comments and used white wine and more lemon juice, instead of the clam juice. I think the roux was too thick for this sauce, and it tasted a bit too "doughy." I would definitely cut the flour in half.

Instead of buttering my salmon, I used extra virgin olive oil with my usual spices and also squeezed more lemon juice onto the salmon. Unfortunately my salmon still had skin on one side, but Mr. Chill came to the rescue! (I am not a good fish butcher)

I meant to use shallots but I forgot (for the sauce) but added garlic.

Overall, it was eh. I served it with white rice and imaginary asparagus (which were already bad when I brough them home from Weavers... grrrrr!).

First pic is of the full dish. The second pic is after I cut it open to show you the salmon. The tarragon really makes the dish. (sorry, my photography skills sucks butt.)

I wouldn't make it again - although I'd love to make another crepe dish. Maybe I'll just hit up a crepe truck...

My next recipe is risotta with bacon and peas... maybe.

I'm almost 30...

2010-08-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

I'm really 28, but I'm almost 30, and it's been making me think about things and what I've done so far.

Age 25: Got married
Age 26: Sucessfully started my business and had clients!
Age 27: Bought a house and added Oscar to our family.
Age 28: Started a paper goods company with my friends

Since I've started my wedding planning business, I haven't really had time to travel, which is something I really wanted to do! I took some real life risks like buying a house, but I didn't take other risks that I've always thought I'd take, like scuba diving or sky diving.

I've been thinking a lot of what else I want to acommplish... but I love lists and crossing things off lists. It makes me feel like I've accomplished something. I've been inspired by other bloggers who are doing something simliar: Brooke with her 101 in 1001, Slice of Pink, and 30before30project.

So.... here's my list so far. Things may change as I come up with better things to do, but here's what I can think of right off the bat.

1. Go scuba diving (if I can get my ear tubes taken out). If not, sky diving.
2. Take a cooking class.
3. Finish off my wedding china and silverware.
4. Eat something local or organic once a day.
5. Try to get up on water skis
6. Go to Tuscany
7. Go to Paris
8. Makeover the master bedroom
9. Quit my day job
10. Throw a gala.
11. Watch the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy in one sitting.
12. Read an entire book in French.
13. Read a philosphy book (recommendations?)
14. Go to bikram 3x a week for 4 weeks in a row
15. Look hot in a bikini.
16. Plan an awesome baby shower for a friend or family member.
17. Learn a new piano piece (suggestions?)
18. Fix the bannisters.
19. Finally get my wedding album made.
20. Organize a book club
21. Try 20 new recipes.
22. Get my wedding ring/engagement ring cleaned and tightened
23. Start saving for retirement.
24. Write a will.
25. Write in my leather journal once a week 4 weeks in a row (and try to keep writing)
26. Take a pole dancing class.
27. Get a better camera and learn how to take better photos.
28. Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity or something similar
29. Go to church
30. Have my family over for Thanksgiving, and give them a very special evening.

Anyone else doing this? Do you have any suggestions for my 30 before 30?

Oscar has a food allergy- What do you feed your dogs?

2010-08-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

I don't have any pics of Oscar's paws because they're just soo sad looking. Fortunately he's not licking his paws raw, but there are tumor-like bulbs inbetween his digits that look painful.

Our twice a day antibacterial soaks and antibiotics haven't worked much, even after we slathered on some antibiotic cream. Recently we've noticed new bumps on his legs, mouth, and around the eye. Last night, Chris noticed that Oscar's knee was inflamed and he was favoring that leg.

So I rushed home from the gym, and we took Oscar to the vet. Apparently he only (*only* is relative) 117 lbs, which is great news because we've been trying to keep him under 120 to avoid potential joint issues. Anywho, we waited about 2 hours when the doc finally saw us, who was surprisingly very nice this time around.

Oscar loves going to the vet, hanging with other animals and flirting with the receptionists and nurses, but once he sees the huge silver shiny weigh station, he freaks out. He's such a scaredy cat, but he's gentle, and eventually let the doc look in his ears, take his temp (fever of 103), and feel his belly.

We were loaded up with antibiotics, prednisone, more soak soap, frontline, and interceptor. Whew!

I'm not a fan of antibiotics and steriods for dogs, but since he had a fever and his paws were so painful, we asked the doc to give him whatever he needed to get better quick (so he can have a fun vacation!). We also ordered the Derma Paw and socks, so that should help too.

We're switching from Lamb and Rice to Fish and Potato, which is apparently the new go-to diet for dogs with severe food allergies.

The Natural Balance (which we were originally feeding him in lamb)'s Fish and Potato have these ingredients:

Sweet Potatoes, Salmon, Salmon Meal, Canola Oil, Potato Fiber, Natural Flavor, Sodium Chloride, Salmon Oil (a source of DHA), Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Methionine, Choline Chloride, Natural Mixed Tocopherols, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Folic Acid.

Just for fun, I wanted to show you the ingredients for Science Diet, that many cat and dog owners think is good. They don't have an allergy formula especially with fish, but here are the ingredients for Large Breed Adult dry food, potentially something I would've fed Oscar if I didn't know any better:

Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Soybean Meal, Animal Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid), Soybean Oil, Chicken Liver Flavor, Flaxseed, Iodized Salt, Dried Chicken Cartilage, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, vitamins (L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, Potassium Chloride, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Carnitine, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Beta-Carotene, Rosemary Extract.

Dogs shouldn't eat Corn or Soy because it's hard to digest. There are also studies of these product affecting renal activity, but also they are the main allergies for most dogs!

Chicken By Product (from wiki) Chicken by-product meal, like poultry by-product, is made of "dry, ground, rendered clean parts of the chicken carcass" according to AAFCO and may contain the same ingredients as poultry-by product. Chicken by-product can vary in quality from batch to batch. Chicken by-product costs less than chicken muscle meat and lacks the digestibility of chicken muscle meat.
Gross.
I'm not saying I want to feed Oscar raw foods. Honestly, I barely have time to cook for myself, but even before we brought Oscar home, we knew his breed had many allergies, so we have been on a quest to find him the perfect food. Looks like we have try again.

The Natural Balance has given him a great coat - he has beautiful shiny hair, despite his skin problems. He also had fine breath and he doesn't smell. The only thing that smells is his shedded hair that hides under our couches and instead our couches. We vaccuum every week, but he sheds like a maniac. Maybe this new protein will alleviate that.

People will feed their kids organic foods or food made fresh at home, but will feed their pets crap food or scraps from the table. Dogs can die from chocolate, onions, and grapes/raisins! If you wonder why your dogs smells or has dry fur, check out his/her diet. Dog food is expensive, but if you think of the cost per day, it's only about $3 a day. Oscar eats SIX cups of dry food a day in addition to treats during walks. Whew. He's like another whole human being living in our house, except he can't do his share of the housework.

Our baby is growing up!

2010-08-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Oscar!

Happy birthday to you,

Happy birthday to you!

You make lots of big poos,

but now you are TWO!

So fine, it's a bad poem, birthday song, thing.

Oscar's been very mellow recently. The other day the Bron Bron Briones came over for some poker and Oscar gave them very nice greets, but he didn't jump or hump them at all! Then he laid down nicely beneath our feet being a good boy, only getting up with one of the Bron Bron's got up.

This is very unusual behavior because he's usually all over them.

The Hills Househouse has a few thoughts on this.

A) He's mellowing out and becoming more mature or

B) He's eaten something again and is sick.

However, his paws have been bothering him, so recently I purchased Derma Paw : http://www.dermapaw.com/ because I am desperate for something to help him. I also purchased the sock (look at the pic above), which I hope will fit our precious baby and help him. If only it would come now!

Today on his birthday, we didn't take our planned walk to Bone Appetite for doggie cake because it was raining (and also we're watching what he eats since he ate that shoe last week), but instead, he spent most of the day sleeping off his benadryl. Although we only gave him 3 which is not much for his weight. I'd just like to think he's upset about not being a puppy anymore.

Oh well.

I love you baby!

Here's pic of him when he was about 6 months old. Digging, were you?

Just another update

2010-07-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

So Oscar is almost two! Time really flies doesn't it? Especially when you love your baby and also freaking out at the same time because he ate a whole wedge shoe, heel and all?

????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!???????????

Sometimes I wonder if Chris and I are the world's worst dog owners. I mean... we take him to training classes, we're active in his training, he has a dog walker to walk him during the day, and we walk him in the morning and in the evening... he has toys, he has bones, he's disciplined as much as we can at this point...

And yet, he's still eating shoes even though we try to keep those out of reach... and his paws are always bothering him, even though we soak them in antibacterial baths, and his face gets red pimples even though we wipe his face after every meal and walk...

Just needed to vent! What are we doing wrong?

In other news, I had a fun weekend. Went to NJ to King Sauna with the dulcetta girls to get a body scrub and the world's most painful massage. Then we got caught in a crazy rain storm as we went to dinner at Gamiok. Here's Lydia posing with her new rain hat (a le sport bag):

On Saturday, I headed to DC with Lydia and we saw this which was so random:

I was in DC to celebrate Tina's birthday! It was a weekend of delicious food, including Honey Pig, which is Korean bbq. Yum! We came back from the bbq full and drunk with a case of severe meat coma. I went to her bedroom to read a gossip mag while her and her friends chatted, and eventually Tina came in to check in on me. We chatted for a few seconds, and she fell asleep with her face in the pillow. I closed by eyes for a moment, and next thing I know it's the next morning. Her boyfriend found us at night with our faces buried in our pillows! So he tucked us in while we continued to dream on about more korean pork bellies.

The following day, we had brunch at Marvins, and I just had to take a pic of their menu. Mr. Chill would love this!

To Tuscany We Go!

2010-07-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

You'd think the way I talk about it, we were leaving this September. No, we're actually planning for next year, but of course, I have to think out every little detail.

It all started with my need for a private vacation with my awesome hubby, Mr. Chill, without family, friends, and Oscar. As much as I love everyone, I miss vacationing alone. We have fun together!

So, I said, St. Lucia, Tuscany, or baby. He chose Tuscany and I was ecstatic! (Just FYI, if we go on vacation at least once a year, there will be no baby. That's my agreement since we don't really want kids of our own).

The perfect place to start looking was at Corzano e Paterno:

(images by our awesome wedding photographer www.chrisbickford.com)

They have their "Agritourismo" housing there -meaning we can live on their winery! They have villas and apartments, all with their own swimming pools.

Since it will just be the two of us, we'll probably go with the apartments that are self-catering.

I'm loving the idea of driving to the nearest town and buying bread and cured meats and cheeses, and taking it back to my apartment and dining on our terrace...

By 2011, the property is supposed to have added a brand new swimming pool for the apartments. I hope this happens!

I am very excited to finally go to Italy and see some great sites in addition to sample authentic Tuscan food.

In the meantime, I'm going to learn some Italian and keep cooking, and love Oscar since I will miss him terribly.

From Colin's FB page from Chloe's birthday! See previous post.

A trip to NJ and the best coffee cup

2010-07-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was little baby Chloe's 1 year old birthday party. It was held at a park in NJ, so we took Oscar with us. This was his first LONG car ride in the car. We decided to try to put the seats down and give him the whole back seat. This turned out not to be a good idea because Oscar ended up just rolling around everywhere.

I love these pics of O-man. Check out that huge smile. That's my boy.

He was very good at the park. I had planned on taking lots of pictures of him playing fetch and playing with Chewie, but neither of those happened because it was too hot. He stayed in one of the unused pavilions, where we needed up staying too. He devoured ice cubes and successfully slobbered everyone that came by to say hello. Chewie also came after we left, so no playing there.

He slept the whole way home, and slept some more that night and all of Sunday. He was still sleeping when I left him at home this morning. What an exciting day for Oscar it was!

Now, best coffee cup ever...

Found at Home Goods on Friday. It's a ceramic cup that looks like a togo cup. The top is silicone and the whole thing is spill proof. I LOVE IT. Plus, it's my blue color. If only the design was brown, it could be my "business" cup, but whatever. :)

My latest thing recently is to be a better friend. I'm not sure how I'm going to do this, but I'm going to make more of an effort to visit friends that don't live in Philly. Every single "best friend" I have does not live in philly. This weekend I'll be going to King Spa in Jersey with Lydz and Liz, then heading to DC for TinaTan's birfday korean bbq extravaganza! Next, I hope to see my NY friends soon...

I hate Lunges...

2010-07-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

But I don't mind the arm workouts as much.

I cancelled by Bally's membership and joined LA Fitness instead, mainly because LA Fitness was cleaner and better. The Bally's by my house was okay, and a long ways cleaner than the Ballys in King of Prussia, but the LA Fitness near my work is SO MUCH better. I mean, the locker room looked like a spa changing room, and there are always people cleaning at the gym.

Plus they have sexy posters. :)

So I also bit the bullet and signed up for 6 months of personal training. I've had two sessions with Kristina already, and so far so good. Yes, I'm terribly sore, but I'm also learning about the limits of my body, and I'm enjoying watching the progress. My arms are already strongers and my abs are a tiniest bit slimmer. I see the trainer once a week, get measured and weighed once a month, and 2 times a week I go to the gym and more if there's a class I can make on the weekends.

I also found out that my health insurance reimburses me $150 a year if I go like 120 times a year. The catch is, I don't get my money until I complete the requirement number of visits... so there's motivation!

Tomorrow is legs day, which means the dreaded lunges with 20lb bar. Ugh. But it's also abs day, which I love. I guess I should stock up on epsom salts tonight to prepare.

In other news, I got an ipad and I'm addicted to watching full tv series on Netflix stream. I already watched the two seasons of The Riches and two seasons for Worst Week. Now I'm onto...

This show is SO CUTE!

Where to go?!

2010-07-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

Last week, my mom asked me and Mr. Chill to vacation with them next May or June, since it's their 30th wedding anniversary. Why they'd want us there I have no idea, but I think it's just because we've never been on a family vacation all together - at least not since I was in college.

So, my mom really loves the beach but can only go for about 4 nights, and the flight needs to be less than 4 hours from Dallas airport. Last year, my parents were thinking of Cabo, so I looked there and Belize.

Here is Belize.

This is http://www.cocotalbelize.com/.

It's a tiny place, where my parents and sister can get separate bedrooms on the top floor of the main house. Mr. Chill and I, we can stay in one of the cottages, since we'd probably stay the whole week. I really liked this place because you could walk into town and get groceries (to make your own food in your kitchen) or go to a nice restaurant. You can walk to the end of the dock and snorkel right there! And it's a very private beach. Mr. Chill and I are not big resorty people, so this seems like a great place. My parents on the other hand do like all inclusive places, so they probably wouldn't dig this place.

How about this place in Cabo?

This is a resort at http://www.cabovillasbeachresort.com/

It's nice, but it's also a huge resort. Not all inclusive and the rooms are more like apartments, but they do have a lot of restaurants on side, in addition to their beach club, and easy access to downtown for more restaurants. I like this place too. It was really difficult to find a good place in Cabo that was beach front at a swimmable beach. Unknown to me, Cabo's beaches are very rough and most are not swimmable. Well then, why would I fly there and spend a whole week by a pool? I need me some beach!

If you know me, you know how obsessed I get about planning. If this vacation is really going to happen in May or June, I need to plan this ASAP since I am starting to booked up on those months for weddings.

So we'll see where we end up. Have you been to either? Where would you rather go?

A letter to Twihards

2010-07-01T13:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Twihards,

I reluctantly went to see Eclipse, the 3rd installment of the Twilight series, and I would like to say, "FINALLY!" A movie from this franchise that is FINALLY decent. Not good, but decent. I actually enjoyed watching most of it.

Although, less than 1 minute into the movie, I muttered, "I hate Kristen Stewart."

But I have to credit the stylists on this movie, that they made her look prettier and Pattison less pasty and gross. I still think he's gross. Why people think he's cute? I have no idea.

Now, once Taylor Lautner showed up, I swooned... literally... like a million times.

I think I do owe the new director a basket of goodies for possibly giving Kstew some acting tips. She maybe huffed or sighed 3 times, as opposed to her usual symphony of exasperated sighs throughout the other twilight movies. Ugh... I think I almost got alcohol poisoning when I tried to make a drinking game out of her huffing. I only made it through the opening scene then I blacked out.

This movie was SO much better than the first and second movie. With the original Twilight, I understood that they were on a budget and I was okay with the product. The second one was just plain god awful. This one, I wouldn't mind watching it again once it comes out on DVD. I hope this director stays for the two final movies. Please.

I'm also sad the "lady in the water" is dead. (Oops, SPOILER ALERT!) She was the best actor in the movie. And Taylor Lautner. I wanted to make out with the movie screen.

Ahem, anyways, dear Twihards, I'm sorry. The movie was decent, Kstew and Pattison stink, and I was more enthusiastic about the next two Harry Potter installments. I would be happiest if the whole movie was just of Taylor shirtless, and if he punched Kstew, I may be even happier.

Thanks for reading!

Oscar hates Twilight.

Go Team Jacob!

2010-06-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

(sad face)

I just started reading one of Cesar Milan's books. I will post more about that once I finish reading it...

The reason why I started this book is because Oscar has been showing some behavioral issues, and it probably stemmed from our lack of training recently.

Oscar is a pro with sitting, staying, lying down, and spinning in a circle. What he was not good with is dropping, walking confidently, and being a bulldog (stubborn).

Let's start with dropping. This is mostly related to food. Oscar never guards his bowl of food. Since day one, we fed him by hand, or with the bowl with our hands inside it. He also always sits and lies down until freed to eat. Same goes for treats, icecubes, and kongs. Oscar has ALWAYS loved food. He can't hide his love for food because he immediately starts to drool once he smells anything delicious. Sometimes he gets too worked up about food and it's an ordeal to stop him or get him to relax. This is the worst with raw bones or anything extra yummy. He would growl when you came near him. He never tried to bite, but a 120 lb dog growling is scary. Obviously this is unacceptable, so we started training him.

I bought him this awesome bone that does not need to be refridgerated. We give it to him and hold onto it while Oscar chews on it for about 20 seconds. Then we ask him to "drop" the bone. If he drops the bone, he's immediately given a yummy ice cube! Then he gets the bone again. Then we command a drop, then he gets an ice cube. He still doesn't understand what drop is. But he's getting it. I think this also teaches him that we are in charge of yummy delicious treats too, not just his everyday food.

Recently, Oscar has been having fear issues on walks. I'm not sure why, but maybe he had some bad experiences before or he's just more skiddish in general. He used to stop and refuse to move and want to turn around and go home. He's a big boy and usually he can drag me. Or he just lays there and I can't get him to move. I tried the positive reenforcement with treats, but he's so scared, he doesn't even want the treats. I think this is when his bulldogishness comes in. He's so obsessed with this feeling or that area, that he doesn't realize he can keep moving! What I've been doing is tying his leash to my waist (so he can't get my energy, because sometimes I'm nervous too of how he might act!) which gives me so much more power. If he tries to sit or turn around, I say No Let's Go! and pull him forward. I want to teach him to be brave and push through it. It always works. But it's a work in progress to get him confident again.

We've also been more stern about the couch. He is no longer allowed on the couch unless we invite him. If Chris and I are on the couch together, Oscar can't fit! Or Chris and I suffer being uncomfortable. What?! he's a dog and this is OUR couch. So now Oscar has to sit or lay down next to us if he wants to hang with us. He's learning. This is also preventing jumping for attention.

Sorry, this is a long post, but I also wanted to document what we're doing for myself. If you have any additional training tips, I'd love to hear!

What do you think about Dog Pee?

2010-06-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

I know weird...

So earlier today Lizzie asked me what the etiquette was on dog peeing on neighbors lawns. She lives in a beautiful community with a small number of houses which also has an HOA. In addition, her and many other neighbors take great care for their lawns and gardens. It was disheartening to her to see a neighbor's dog pee in the middle of her neighbor's lawn, a lawn he has been working very diligently on recently to keep his grass green despite the hot weather.

Her neighborhood also doesn't have sidewalks. Where I live in the city, we have sidewalks and grass between sidewalks and the street. Oscar usually pees there. Technically trees planted there belong to the city, so I assume the grass belongs to the city too, although we're all responsible for mowing and trimming that area in from of our house.

Lizzie's argument was that this neighbor has a big yard where their dog can pee on anytime. My defense was, even after Oscar goes #1 and #2 in the backyard, he often goes again on the walk. It must be something about getting his legs moving, that stirs up some stuff in there! We make sure we pick up every piece of poop, but we really can't do anything about urine. Oscar doesn't pee on pavement. I've never seen a dog pee on pavement...

So what is the etiquette? I'm not sure! Oscar would NEVER pee in the middle of someone's lawn because he simply does not have enough leash to do that. He always walks next to me, not in front or back, and his leash usually is only 3 feet long between us. I see people walking their dogs all the time with those retractable leashes or letting their dogs WALK THEM (ie, the dog is pulling them in front of the owner). Train your dogs people! If Oscar does pee on a lawn, it's right by the sidewalk, or on the grass next to the sidewalk and street. I can't stop him from going if he needs to go, especially if he relieved himself prior to the walk.

I don't have an answer and wanted to know what your thoughts were.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2421352/5_tips_to_better_dog_walking_etiquette.html?cat=53

Fun weekend!

2010-06-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

*For some reason, my blog posts on my facebook notes is very delayed. Sometimes it doesn't even post. I think facebook is trying to judge which posts are worthy of being on facebook, and I think it thinks all of it is shit.* :)

Anywho, the men went to their 10 year college reunion, so us ladies decided to jam pack our weekend with fun in the city.

Friday night, we went to L'Oca, a byob in Fairmount. Our dear friend Cory was such a sweetheart and sent a bottle of really great wine with her husband for the rest of us to share at dinner. It was a delicious wine. Afterwards, we went to Lydz' house to hang out with Chewie and play some JustDance and RockBand.

Saturday was the Roots Family Picnic at Festival Pier, which was an all day event in Penns Landing. We kinda got lost and took the wrong bus to Penns Landing and ended up in South Philly/Society Hill. Here's Lydz enjoying the hot air while we waited for a rescue cab...

And here is Liz and Leigh doing the exact same thing, but together:

What you see hanging off of Liz's shoulder is a $10 chair I purchased from Rite Aid that morning. I already had a chair, but I didn't feel like sharing my chair, nor did I think the girls would want to sit on hot pavement. So I figured, for $10... it's not a big deal if we lose them or break them at the show, if it works.

Hells yeah, it rocked!

Everyone was jealous of our chairs!

Here's my and Lydz before we melted at the show. Fortunately, we were not one of the idiots who drank massive amounts of beer in the high heat and passed out or had to douse ourselves in the sprinklers. We were nerdy and brought chairs and hydrated with water and lemonade. You may say, what nerds! I say, we're geniuses.

I have so many more pictures, as so the rest of the girls, but just wanted to make a quick post with the images from my iphone.

Oh! And last week, we went out to try all you can eat crab legs at Barnabys and it was a success! I only made it to taking a picture of the menu. Soon after my crabs came out, and I stopped talking and started cracking those legs for them meat!

Weekend recap

2010-06-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Memorial Weekend Festivities started early with PGill's birthday celebration at Village Whiskey, another Jose Garges restaurant.

A few weeks ago, Lydia said this place had better burgers than Bobby Flay's Burger Palace. I've never been to either, so I was excited to check it out. It really is set up like a speak easy type of place, reminescient of the Prohibition and hole in the wall type of places. It was small and cramped, and people kept filing in. Their whiskey menu is 10 times larger than their regular food menu. I was a bit bothered by a bunch of dressed up girls who came in stilettos and too tight dresses ordering cosmos before heading out to see the new Sex in the City Movie. Village Whiskey is not exactly a pre-SATC type of place. They just took up a lot of room, so we went to Tinto for some tapas and drinks, while we waited for our table at Village Whiskey.

The burgers... delicious! The fries are fried in duck fat (yum). I had an original burger with cheddar and avocados. Mr. Chill had shortribs that was on top of fries. That was awesome.

The check came, we paid, and we promptly left the still crowded restaurant. Later, we found out that the rest of the group stayed for about an hour. Oops. We tend to do that.

Given that it was a long weekend, the Chill family had to accomplish a few things around the house. Mr. Chill took care of the shrubs, weeds, and lawn in the front and back. I decided to finish up my stair banisters.

The original color was this pukey peachy brown. It was ugly to begin with, and eventually scratched up badly when we tried to push our furniture up the tight stairs. My goal was to paint the banisters black without getting paint all the over the place (black paint would be a bitch to clean up!). As you can see, I went a bit crazy with the plastic tarp. But hey, I only allowed 2 drops of paint to escape. I would like to say that this project is complete. I was feeling lazy yesterday, so the last coat of paint on the remaining two banisters needs to wait until sometime this week.

I had two netflix movies sitting around for a while, so we decided to tackle these over the weekend.

First up was Crazy Heart.

I liked it a lot. I even liked the music. Hm, maybe I like country music? But I also love Maggie Gyllenhaal. It was a good movie and enjoyable.

I watched An Education alone with Oscar, since Mr. Chill had no interest in it.

I was surprised that I liked it. I wasn't really sure what it was about. The whole movie, I kept thinking Carey Mulligan reminded me so much of Audrey Hepburn. It was a cute movie.

The highlight of the weekend was our pets!

Meet the Gill's newest addition - 11 week old Chewbacca (Chewie). Chewie made his debut Sunday evening at a BBQ at the Braun Braun Briones' casa. He was so cute. He was like a little bunny and hopped everywhere. He was also very smart! He sat and lied down with easy prompts. I can't wait to see this little boy grow up.

Here is the blog post from when Oscar was 11 weeks old:

http://diaryofoscar.blogspot.com/2008/10/happy-11th-week-birthday.html

More pets:

Here is Buttons, the Briones' family cat. He's cute, but be aware, when his Puss in Boots eyes come out, he's ready to attack!

And of course, my baby Oscar.

We took Oscar to Blue Bell Park for some recall training and fetching. It quickly got too hot for Oscar to do much more. So we decided to just walk around the park. He met a few dogs, and eventually we ended up with two lovely boxer ladies.

They played off leash - Oscar stayed on leash most of the time. When he was more comfortable, we let go of the leash, and they had a grand ol' time. But by this point, the other boxers were tired, so they just lay there together hanging out.

Home inspiration Photos

2010-05-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

This post is mainly for Mr. Chill to know what I plan on doing to our house... and ahem, I can't do it alone. So.. just so we're all on the same page. Heehee

My new obsession: My stairs.

Black railing with white/cream balusters. I've been thinking of painting the actual stairs black and the sides white... too much? Too crazy?

Ignore the pink. Love the stairs.

If I could do this...

The downstairs bathroom is also a project in the works (as you saw in the previous post).
The vanity will be white, and I'm replacing the medicine cabinet, lights, and adding window drapery.

I thought these would be cute to add on the walls to hang hand towels:

I mean, how cute are these? So shabby chic!

Once the stairs and bath is done, ahem, I'm going to move onto the porch. We have a beautiful 3 season enclosed porch, and we NEVER use it. It currently houses Mr. Chill's ratty tatty white leather sofa and recliner, and a great coffee table that just needs some tender love and care. The porch walls are in stone, so I won't be hanging any artwork, but it does have beautiful windows that encase the entire porch. I'm thinking sheer curtains, new couch and accent hair, a cute lamp, and fixing up the coffee table.

Some ideas:

I'd also add something like this to the front of our house so clients and friends can find our humble abode:

Of course, we need to renovate our master bedroom. I suggested last night we make Mr. Chill's current office the walk in closet, expand the current bathroom, and make a "gaming" room on the other side of the bedroom by the window (inlieu of a sitting area).

My dream bedrooms and baths:

So clean and bright... check out the shower area.

I totally heart this sink!

Cool bath looking into the master bedroom (or closet)

I will definitely be adding a chandelier at the foot of the bed:

We already bought paint for our room - a darker slate color... if I remember correctly.

Last but not least, our backyard:

We definitely want to level our yard and make a patio. Something like this, without the crazy shrubs:

Just because I love this clock. Homegoods sells these clocks, or similar, and I always want to get one... but not sure exactly where I'd put it. We seriously have NO clocks in our kitchen, dining, or living room. We rely on the digial clocks on the stove and cable box, and our cell phones. No clocks... isn't that weird?

That's it... (hhaha, that's it?). All the things I WANT to do, but will probably never complete.

Home Improvement: Mr. Chill the plumber

2010-05-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

We had quite the productive weekend!

Before:

After:

Recently, we've been having some leakage issues with our faucets. The first started in Chris' bathroom, then it happened in our 1st floor bathroom, and most recently, with the kitchen sink.

Since the kitchen sink gets the most action, we thought it prudent to fix that right away. I don't know, but I love trips to Home Depots and Lowes.

Our first choice faucet was sold out (came with matching soap pump), so we settled on this one, which is that bad. It did not come with a soap pump, so we just made do with the original one. I never use it, so I didn't really care.

Since Chris has fixed the plumbing in our laundry room, I am now confident in his general plumbing skills. I was not surprised that he was able to replace the kitchen faucet. It looks great and works fantastic!

Here is the 1st floor bathroom sink in all its ugly glory:

Ick. We're going to replace it with the traditional faucet that also matches my personal bathroom. I'll post pics when Chris replaces it.

But I have been frequenting Home Goods to dress up this ugly ass bathroom.

I replaced the knobs with cute ceramic shabby chic knobs from HG, and a cute green side table.
I don't plan on replacing the vanity, so I'm going to just paint is white. I know... the sink is pink, but what can you do. You should see the toilet. It's has a wooden seat. Heck, my bathroom has a foam soft toilet seat. I forgot to get new seats during this Home Depot visit.

I also got green damask towels, art work (one vintage bath tub framed picture and a canvas of a vintage chandelier). I picked up some green paint chips to test out on the walls that can be painted.

I have decided to FINALLY tackle our ugly peach brown banisters. I've NEVER stripped anything before (except boys, heehee), and now that I've done one area, I think I'm addicted. I'm trying to figure out the best method to protect the carpet and balusters... and also learning proper ways to dispose of this. I hope I don't return home today to a shell because my stripper spontaneously combusted. Yikes.

I will post pics of that later!

Playing with dirt keeps you young...

2010-05-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

According to my cool hippie neighbor, who lives in the most random looking house on our block...

Recently, good friends the Braun Braun Brionesesses (?! wah?) have been planting new bushes and shrubs for their perfectly manicured lawns.

I do not have a green thumb. I think it's black, rotting, and about to fall off. But I love flowers.

Leftover flowers from Papertini-cHill Weddings wedding in March

This weekend, it was almost 90 degrees and very humid, so I wasn't surprised when I came home from AC and Mr. Chill hadn't mowed the little tickland growing in our front yard. Our next door neighbors lawn guy was over fixing up her lawn for the spring. His name is Marshall, and Chris realized he'd rather pay someone to do our lawn than do it himself. It would have seriously cut into this WoW time (he's a KING SLAYER people!).

So Mr. Marshall the lawn guy did our front lawn AND pulled all the weeds in my flower bed that I never cared for. I love that flower bed... every once in a while, I'll come home and a random flower will bloom and surprise me, and make me smile. Then a few days later, I'll come home again, and it's dead. But the weeds are partying it up in that flower bed. Mr. Marshall the lawn guy came and took care of all that for me, without my even asking... and I'm so happy! I can now plant stuff and not worry about pulling weeds and doing the really really hard stuff!

Bleeding Heart

Bishops Hat

Toad Lily

Philadelphia is a Zone 7 - hardy and our flower bed is partial to full shade. We have random tulips and lilies that grow where the sun hits around the house, and a kick ass hydrangea bush next to the house. But I think it would be fun to experiment in my little flower bed.

Although I'm sure once I see the first slug or beetle, I will scream like a prepubescent boy and never go near that flower bed again.

A cool gardening blog I found today - fellow Mt. Airy neighbor http://www.petesgarden.dyndns.org/

And this one from Ohio, but I love their pictures: http://ourlittleacre.blogspot.com/

Oh, and happy belated Grand May Day to any Mawrtyrs!

Like I need another hobby

2010-05-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if it's because I may possibly have some sort of attention deficit disorder, but I love learning new things and trying them out. I get REALLY excited about it... 80% of the time I actually start it, and then 50% of that time, I finish it. Well, it depends on what it is.

My business is part of the 80% and the other 50% of it being started and successfully managed. So is Dulcetta (http://www.dulcettadesigns.etsy.com/), although it was Lizzie's idea and eventually got me really excited about it. Hm, maybe if it has anything to do with making money, I'll accomplish it.

Other projects that I am ambitious about but either never finished or haven't started:
1) Finishing off my home office
2) Stripping and repainting the 3 levels of stair rails
3) All bathroom decor
4) Painting the main bedroom (never mind my original walk in closet idea).
And that's just the house (there is SO much more with my house that I want to do, including simple visits to Home Goods.

5) Cross stitching - I can finish little projects. Anything requiring over 2 days of work usually get pushed to the side once my little asian fingers start to cramp
6) Blogs, like this one
7) Researching the latest and bestest tablet/netbook. I'm thinking Lenovo U1 hybrid. By the time it comes out though, I bet I would've moved onto something else. iPad Die!
8) Bikram yoga - I average about 1 visit a week... sometimes none.

Some new obsessions - acquired this weekend are as follows:
1) Gardening. Haven't started yet, but I've started my extensive googling. That's be a separate post.
2) Downloading movies and shows again, back like I did in college. I am praying I don't get any viruses. Maybe I should buy my norton software soon

It's not a proper blog post without obligatory pictures of our little baby boy!

California Continued

2010-04-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

The reason why we were all in California was for our friends', the Parkers, wedding.

This ceremony has to be one of my top 5 favorite ceremonies. It overlooked the water, the weather was awesome, and the music was great. Their vows were personal and really sweet and really made you feel the love they have for each other.

All the Philly girls together for a photo op. It wasn't that cold - I don't know why I was wearing my pashmina like a jacket.

Our sexy husbands. The cutest one is mine. :) Just kidding. They're all adorable, but the one really working the camera is Mr. Chill. Suit up!

Me and the hubz.

Our awesome hot tub. The house was so great. I don't feel like posting all the pics of the house here since I know you really don't care.

The day after the wedding, we went to the aquarium. It was a fantastic time. Chris was telling me how he sees all different types of cool stuff when he dives. He just LOVES to rub it in that I can't scuba dive. I loved hanging with my Dulcetta girls.

Us watching some fish. Mr. Chill told me to find one spot and keep watching that one spot, and eventually I will see something really cool. I saw a fish head swimming around. Seriously, he had no other body. It was just one big fish head with little flippers.

Okay, that's it for my California update, finally!

Next, I will share with you my passion party pics and karaoke fun! (if I remember to take pictures).

Easter Weekend

2010-04-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

So Mr. Chill, Oscar, and I are a Christian family, in the sense that we do celebrate Easter, as opposed to Passover. We didn't go to church, but mainly because they don't allow slobbering pups into sacred places, not because we're lazy or because Mr. Chill thinks he will burn once he steps inside...

Friday night (Good Friday) was celebrated with our krew (and I say Krew, and not Crew because Liz, Pat, and I are korean. That's all.). We went to Solento's for dinner which was yummos, and then went to Helium Comedy Club to see Steve Bryne (a Korean-Irish-American comic). He's super hot.

So yeah, he looks uncomfortable to be standing next to me here. He's probably like "Who's this silly asian girl with flowers all over her shirt?"

Saturday, Mr. Chill and I went to the Chestnut Hill Farmers Market and had an awesome time thinking up a menu for Saturday and Sunday dinners while we browsed. We decided on a nice whole red snapper for Saturday and Veal chops for Sunday for easter.

Whole red snapper steamed in the oven with lemon juice, capers, garlic, and red pepper flakes, served with my roasted veggies of yams, zucchini, carrots, and asparagus. Oscar totally tried to help by adding his secret ingredient to everything (drool).

Easter Sunday, Mr. Chill grilled up nice thick veal chops, with a side of red and yellow baby potatoes and sauteed broccoli rabe. I helped myself to a glass of pinot noir. We totally classed up the event by eating at our coffee table while watching something on tv. Stay classy!

Oscar wasn't left out of course! We picked up a HUGE smoked bone thing from the market. It smelled delicious, and Oscar agreed. He chewed and picked at it for at least 4 HOURS. Afterwards, when he licked the bone clean, he drank about a gallon and water, and then went outside and peed the longest pee in doggie history!

Later in the evening, he was exhausted.

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

The Chill family had a great Easter weekend and I hope you all did too!

Just another update

2010-04-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

So about a month ago, some chick took a right turn from the inner lane, and hit us (we were going straight). I don't recall a blinker or giving her a sign that she can go. She just plowed through. Her explorer hit our brand new Rogue in the front corner - cracking the headlight glass and making a mean dent on the quarter panel. Boo to her.

The car was still driveable so we originally decided to wait it out until the insurance companies fought it out. We knew it would require about $1500 in repairs plus our $500 deductible. We assume the girl's insurance would pay for everything, since y'know, it was her damn fault.

Fast forward a few weeks later and they're saying they reach the girl. Her dad is out of the country or something, and eventually they find out she may not have insurance! WHAT?! Meanwhile, I'm getting a ticket left and right for no inspection. We can't get the car inspected because it would fail due to the headlight damage. So we bit the bullet and took the car done to our dealership's autobody job and now I'm driving a rental (Mazda 3 below).

It's aight. I miss my bluetooth so bad. I also miss power locks (!) and being higher off the ground. Not knocking the mazda 3, but I miss my Rogue.

In other news, I'm throwing a "Passion Party" this saturday for my girlfriends. I'm hoping to get at least 10 girls. I'm planning on making a pretty pink drink and some beers - plus cute hors d'oeuvres like crab and avocado crostinis, a swiss and bacon quiche, pasta salad, and endive cups with chicken salad (courtesy for Lydz). Is it weird to be more excited about hosting a party, than the purpose of the party itself? It is a passion party after all - you don't want to come off about being uber excited about sex toys. That just doesn't seem right, especially when my husband will be right upstairs. But another thing I AM excited about is the ordering room. The Passion Party requires a separate private room for ordering. I'm going to set up the porch as the private ordering room - with flower petals and candles on the coffee table. Unfortunately this requires cleaning up the said porch room and finally moving my floating vases into the basement... but it had to be done. Mr. Chill did put up my potterybarn curtains last weekend! The curtains are party of the privacy of the porch idea.

Finally, let's end with Oscar.

Last Friday was Good Friday, so I was home early. Oscar and I took a LONG walk around Mt Airy. We went towards Lincoln Drive and decided to take a break right at the church steps. We were having a great time. It was super sunny (hence my squinting. it's not because I'm asian). Oscar was a trooper. Then we went up to the train station and waited for Mr. Chill to get off his train.

Lately I have been coming home early since I haven't been hitting the gym as often as I used to. It's just SO NICE out! So I came home and Oscar and I waiting by the window for Mr. Chill to come home from work. We both get super excited to see him every day. This picture was taken facing the porch windows. Oscar was standing up on the chair like he normally does everyday while he waits for his daddy.

My week in California

2010-03-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

Makes me so sad to write that because I wish I was still there... but anywhoo... boo hoo.

I first visited my oldest friend, June, in LA. She lives in Downtown LA in the cutest loft. Her parking lot is a valet lot... jealous. And everyone in LA drives a nice car. Double Jealous. Pictured above are her car buddies.

I will post more pic once I grab them off my camera and steal off of her facebook. :)

But I tried to wear heels for about 30 minutes while walking around Beverly Hills, and this is what happened.

Ouchie.

On Friday night, I flew out to San Jose by myself and waited for Mr. Chill to arrive from Philadelphia.

No Chris.

Yay. He arrived! (then I wondered if the pilots could see me if I flashed them. Tee hee)

We were all in Monterey California for our good friends' wedding - Cory and Matt Parker. The ceremony overlooked the ocean and it was incredibly beautiful. I really think outdoor weddings do not need anything. No extra flowers or pillars or trellis, etc. Cory did have a basket of comfy blankets ready, since it was a bit chilly still. But my awesome pashmina kept me warm.

The Dulcetta girls had a great time, even though we didn't party as late as we normally would because of Lydz's cough, my extreme heart burn, and... Liz was fine, since she was DD.

I really liked their centerpieces because it was personal. From the pine cones to the shells, everything was personal and had a reason for being a part of the centerpiece. I think I will blog about it on my wedding blog later.

While in Pacific Grove/Monterey, we went to an awesome seafood restaurant called Passion Fish. This is the bottle of wine Lydz, Mr. Chill, and I drank - a nice white from Greece.

While in LA, June fed me some brussel sprouts with bacon and parmesan. YUM. So I made it last night for dinner with shrimp and rice, and had the leftovers for lunch today!

I'm back to eating healthy again (although not sure if brussel sprouts in bacon fat is considered healthy) - because I lost 10 lbs since Jan 1 and won the biggest loser contest! I will be $200 richer soon. Woohoo. Best part, Mr. Chill insists I keep that money for me, instead of contributing it for our car repair (oh yeah, we got in a car accident a few weeks ago!) or fixing our roof, etc.

Some other random things - I've decided to switch from mineral makeup to liquid foundation because my skin is getting dry and blotchy. June mentioned that my current makeup is too red - which brings out the redness in my skin. So after using Liz's Bobbi Brown liquid foundation, which I loved, I've decided to try out the Cover Girl Clean foundation first -got it on sale at the grocery store, along with the Clean pressed powder. It has stayed on all day, but you can see my skin flaking a tiny bit if you look at it real close. That's because of my current skin conditions, not the makeup. Let's see how it does as the week goes by!

Will update more with more and more pictures soon (including videos of Oscar).

California Bound

2010-03-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

By the time you read this, I will probably be in the air, or already in California. Basically, depends on when I plan on scheduling this post, and when you will actually read it.

Why California? Well obviously, I am just plain sick of the snow and rain we've been getting nonstop here in Philadelphia. But of course, the week I decide to leave, it's 60 degrees, sunny, and beautiful. Just my luck.

The good news is that California will be just as nice, if not better.

Our friends are getting married in Monterey this weekend. Since I'm going out west, I decided to finally visit one of my oldest friends in LA. FINALLY. I'll be spending time with her, trying to be spontaneous and fun, and eat lots of great food, which is a given, since she is a great cook and a bonafide foodie.

Then I fly to San Jose to meet up with Mr. Chill (I miss you!) and move into our vacation rental home for the weekend in Pacific Grove. It has a hot tub!

Isn't it so cute!?! I couldn't believe I found something close to the reception, within our price range, and enough to hold 3 couples... and a hot tub! Did I mention that already?

See the hottub? I hope the tree is trimmed.... I would hate to sit under that tree...

There is also a Bikram studio nearby. I'm going to try to convince my bikram buddy Lydz to go with me. I feel like with all the food I'll be eating in LA, and all the booze I will be drinking in Monterey, I need at least one session of Bikram. It's been too long too... and my back is starting to get knotted up again. Coincidence?

Hm... let's see if I ever make it to the studio.... any bets?

My neighbor with the 'fro is so nice

2010-03-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have a great neighbor in my eclectic Mt. Airy neighborhood. He's a musician, drummer, perennial birkenstock wearer, with a big gray afro.

He calls me Christine, even though my name is Christina, but that's okay, because he's always giving me something.

The other day, he gave me a box of fairly traded green tea - Small Farmer Tea in Ceylon Green.

I finally opened it up today and was pleasantly surprised by the packaging:

Instead of the usual boring tea bas, this one had netting, with loose leaf tea. I love it! My little tea bag is a great model with my Wolfeboro, NH desk mug.

Thanks Neighbor!

PS- Yes, it's very yummy tea.

Movie Reviews: Alice in Wonderful 3D, Invention of Lying, and Precious

2010-03-16T11:35:00.000-07:00

Oh!! I found my post! Sneaking blogger....

Last week was full of movies! We're definitely trying to work the Netflix Queue so we have movies to watch on free days.

Earlier in the week, we watched Invention of Lying with Ricky Gervais.

This movie was recommended by Mr. Chill's parents (who actually recommend many movies for us), and it was great! It was funny and clever, and the story concept was original and interesting.

Ricky Gervais is so endearing yet pathetic, and you can't help but love him. You immediate hate some characters because of the honest thoughts they have, but then you remember, this is life with no lies. Gervais' character has tough skin, meanwhile, Jonah Hill's character is on the brink of collapse.

I love that Jason Bateman, Louis CK, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman are in this movie. I especially do not like that Jennifer Garner is in it. I never thought she was a good actress and something about her irks me. She's so sugary sweet and it irritates me. Her character really is shallow, and could have been played by any other female character. I'd rather have seen Jennifer Aniston in this role, Sandra Bullock, or Eva Longoria-Parker (my favorite housewife).

I give this movie an 8 out of 10. A whole point is lost because of Garner. The other point... just because.

Friday night we saw Alice in Wonderland in Digital 3D.

I kept waiting for something great to happen in true Burton/Depp/Bonham-Carter style, and I was disappointed. For some reason, the moment older Alice fell into the hole and landed in the room full of different size doors, I immediately know this movie was going to fail to meet my expectations. Also, Mr. Chill fell asleep around the tea party scene.

Doesn't the previous paragraph I just wrote sound like this movie is a remake of the original? NO! It's supposed to be Alice 13 years later. There are many references to scenes from the original. Then why did Burton choose to keep the later story so similar to the original? It bored me. I'm sorry... it was boring and unoriginal. So unlike Burton. It made me so sad.

The best part of the movie:

the costumes. I really really loved Alice's many wardrobe changes and everything she wore. Of course, Depp's costume is genious, from the clothes, to the hair, to the hat, and his crazy eyes. I didn't like Anne Hathaway's makeup. It looked like the good white witch forgot to take off her raver makeup from the night before.

I wanted to LOVE this movie... but unfortunately I just couldn't. It didn't strike me as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I give this movie a 4 out of 10.

Saturday afternoon, Mr. Chill, Oscar, and I cuddled up together on the couch to watch Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire, while it rained cats and dogs outside.

(this is all it saved... I'm too lazy to add. Precious was a great movie. I recommend you all see it. I give it an 8 out of 10.)

My lost post

2010-03-16T11:22:00.000-07:00

No, not like Lost the TV show Lost, but lost, as in gone forever.

I had a great long witty blog post about the movies we viewed recently... and blogger decided to kill it.

So, here's my replacement post.

Precious - good movie.

Mariah Carey wasn't that bad. Almost made me cry.

Invention of Lying

Ricky Gervais rocks. Jennifer Garner sucks. I heart Jason Bateman.

Alice in Wonderland

Wanted it to be like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but it failed miserably.

Anne Hathway looked like she still had makeup on from a rave the night before.

Costumes were the best part of the movie.

Alice's dress were the bestest.

Insert witty comment here.

A decent weekend of movies.

Weekend recap

2010-03-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

It was a good weekend. My body is still sore from it, but I'll get to that later.

Oscar loves Daddy really...even if the picture above says otherwise.

Beautiful dog.

Mr. Chill had some work he needed to do yesterday. Oscar was there for moral support. I am happy to report that Oscar did not eat any of the work. In fact, he was quite bored (the first picture is of him mid-yawn).

Look at all that delicious paper... yet Oscar left them untouched. Good boy.

On Friday, I did some speed shopping at Forever 21 and Limited and made out with two jackets (one real jacket and other is more like a blazer), a ring, and a very cute belt.

Yesterday, in between meetings, I hit up Target for some last minute goodies for our California trip. I picked up these shoes for the wedding (in case my other shoes don't come in time), and a cute $10 bag!

Saturday night, I went out with the Gills and Briones, sans husband (sad face) to Banana Leaf for Malaysian food (I could eat that roti and dipping sauce all day), then back to the Gills' awesome home for some Wii Just Dance fun. And by fun, I meant, we played it straight for 3-4 hours fun. We were panting inbetween songs fun, we begged the boys to do it too so we can make video of them fun. Even Mr. Chill would've liked it if he was drunk enough fun!

I want to go back over to play/dance some more! My arms are incredibly sore from holding onto the wii controller. Also the game is very arm heavy, since the controller picks up the movements.

We may have done every song - some of them even 2 or 3 times. I think we need to find a way to put in more songs. Now I know what to get Lydia for Christmas. :)

Oscar is digesting the fleece toy, we think...

2010-03-08T08:58:00.000-08:00

Yes, Oscar ate a toy a few weeks ago.

But we haven't really seen it come out yet, if you know what I mean.

I'm starting to think it has already been digested. Great, crisis diverted.

I did see that he's been eating pieces of the blue sheets on the couch... oh Oscar.

Here is a picture of Oscar sleeping on said blue sheets during the Oscars. I guess he wasn't that impressed, even though the award show is named after him. :)

Speaking of the Oscars, Mr. Chill and I are so glad we watched Hurt Locker over the weekend. Thank goodness! It was a fantastic movie, much better than we anticipated. Neither of us though Avatar deserved to win Best Picture, and we were rooting for Tarentino's Inglorious Basterds, but Hurt Locker was great too, so we're happy they won.

That is all for today.

A great place for a shopping spree

2010-03-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I inquired on my facebook where I can go to find a cute dress, that wasn't black. I have a few black dresses, but after seeing so many weddings, I realized that guests usually wear black, and it gets boring. I'm also trying to add more color to my wardrobe, this way, I never get bored of my clothes.

This is the dress my girl Alison picked out for me at Lulus.com. I fell in love with it right away. The color first threw me off, but I thought I'd try it. I'm so glad I did, because it was beautiful. It looked great against my yellowy Asian skin. Even Mr. Chill didn't mind the fabric flowers in the front as much on this dress. I had also bought the charcoal color in small, and it was tighter and the fabric didn't do anything for me. But in a larger size, it was perfect.

I'm such a sucker for ruffles, even before it was trendy. I saw this dress on the same Lulus site and loved it. Y'know what's best about this site... the dresses are CHEAP! I'm never paying more than $60 for a dress again! Anyways, back to this cute dress. The medium fit well, a bit bigger in the waist, but I think a cute ribbon or belt will complete the dress. With tights and my boots, I thought this dress would be killer.

I have to admit, I thought "booties" or ankle boots were stupid if not worn with pants over them. I stand corrected. I love it. I love the first show, only $33 online at Lulus. I may purchase it with my return for the charcoal dress. The second shoe is cute too, but poo, not in the market for a brown boot.

I thought these shoes by Madden Girl were super cute to wear with the above green dress for the wedding. Again, I heart ruffles. According to the zappos reviews, this shoe is pretty damn comfortable. It's not a bad price either (under $50) so I may have to snag these up too.

And I just have to say, I'm wearing my club monaco silver dress shirt (short sleeves accented with RUFFLES!) and my old banana republic linen suit today... all of which I could not comfortably wear for the past 3 years. Today, I'm happy to say that all articles of clothing are comfy and I'm so happy to see some change after my two months of working out. Woohoo!

Is it Spring yet? My drool is frozen.

2010-02-19T07:36:00.000-08:00

Seriously. He drools a lot. Sometimes after a long walk, he looks like he's rabid, because he's got foamy drool all over his big mouth. But recently in this cold snowy weather, his drool doesn't make it to that foamy point because it's too damn cold!

When it was really cold, I actually walked Oscar in my fake Uggs-from-Target boots and my warm pajama bottoms. I really didn't care. Oscar unfortunately was always naked because he's too manly for dog clothes and booties (according to Mr. Chill).

Philadelphia has this unspoken rule about coveting your parking space if you shoveled it out. Then it is followed by placing a chair, a trash barrel, anything to make sure no one parks in it. Sure, it's illegal, and that space is really not rightfully yours, regardless of whether or not it took you 5 hours to shovel it out. My street has been pretty good about parking and not taking other people's space. We also don't put chairs out. But last weekend, Liz and Lydia needed a place to park, and I figured, they're exempt from this unspoken rule since they're visitors. Liz's car was fine. Lydia parked in a spot down the block. A few days later, her car was COVERED with snow. An angry neighbor thought it would be better to shovel out a new space and put all the snow on Lydia's car. I mean... seriously? All the neighbors know the cars on the block. Obviously, her car is a visitor's car. Is this how you show how awesome Mount Airy is, because you're not being so awesome.

Anywho, we shoveled out enough for her to get her SUV out. In response to their immature behavior, we put snow all over their side walk and on their car. I know, we're so cool. We contemplated rubbing Oscar's poo all over their windshield, but decided that would be too gross - someone would have to touch it to smear it. Ick.

PS- Um, how cool are these? I wouldn't even eat them. Can I frame them? Too bad it's a picture from the internet, not from my kitchen.

Some aspirations.

2010-02-18T08:24:00.000-08:00

I have a secret. I wish I was a better runner. But for some reason, I think my knees and shins weren't made for it. Once upon a time, I ran a half marathon. To say I ran the whole thing would be a big fat lie. I ran about 75% of it. I walked the other 25%, and I felt like I was going to die. Maybe that the was the bad scallops I ate the day prior, but I felt like my months of training weren't working. Perhaps I trained wrong. But I read all the books, articles, forums... why couldn't I do it?

If you see my legs, they're slightly bowed, hence my constant shin splints. I swear, bruises show up on my shins out of no where too, and I think it's due to working out.

I've started to incoporate some running/walking on the treadmill. My goal was to do a modest 5 miles a week. Most weeks I can't do it, because it hurts. But I think the key to making my shins stronger is to run slowly and keep adding it to my workout cardio.

When I'm not running or doing bikram, I'm on this baby. It's the Precor EFX Cross Ramp. It's like the wimpy version of the elliptical. Why? Because the arms don't move, but I also try to work it without holding onto anything and swing my arms for movement. This forces me to use my core to keep myself up and balanced. It's hard! I do burn more calories doing this than running on the treadmill. Once the snow melts and it's nicer out, I may have to start doing my Kelly Drive run/walk.

This is Carlo Gallo. She's a character on the new show: Men of a Certain Age. There is something about this girl that appeals to me. And last night on TV, she looked so great. She wasn't super skinny, but looked more athletic and fit. I turned to my husband and said, I want to look like her. We'll see. My current goal is to work my inner thighs and core, and do the cardio to melt away excess fat. In other words, I want to look hot in a bikini. We'll see.

In Oscar news, we took to him to the vet. Unfortunately, it was the vet that's not the nicest and seems to be scared of Oscar, but with Mr. Chill there, we got through it okay. They even clipped a few nails and that made me super happy. He got more antibiotics and antibiotic soak, so hopefully in a few days, Oscar will be in good shape again. He did lose weight, so it looks like his new diet is going well. I look forward to the days when we don't have to go to the vet every month for some weird medical issue. Please God? I can't afford it anymore....

More Bikram and Oscar's Paw

2010-02-17T11:36:00.000-08:00

This is the pose I wait for... it's a sign that we're half way over and about to go to the floor series. OMG, I was hurting last night.

Actually, it wasn't hot and I wasn't in pain, but I really had to go to the bathroom. I tried to hold it in and in, but finally I gave in and ran out. The instructor stopped me - sure I know - it's disrespectful, but still... I didn't want to make an ass out of myself in class. So I ran to the bathroom and ran back out. I don't even remember if the toilet flushed properly!

I went back to class, and I was able to do rest of the class much happier and comfortably. Geez, I shouldn't have held it in that long!

Lesson learned: go to the bathroom before class.

In other news, Oscar's paw looks worse, so we're skipping class today to take him to the vets. We need some antibiotics stat! He also broke his cone today (the plastic cracked in half) so looks like we'll need a plastic flexible one. He doesn't lick his paw much, but he has recently because it's been extra salty outside and because his paw was getting worse. Don't worry, Oscar! We'll take care of you! You even get to play hookie!

I can't wait for spring to come. Enough of this damn snow and salt already. Okay, done complaining.

Bikram makes me want to cry.

2010-02-16T07:56:00.000-08:00

I don't make big goals for bikram. Slow and steady for me, so I will get made at Bikram Yoga. So I decided to just got twice a week, and run/other cardio the other two times a week. I wished I lived in the city, so I can go all the time - in the morning, or later at night. I've been thinking how awesome it must feel to do doubles... I'm crazy.

So this image is of the camel pose. It is my favorite pose, and it's towards the end of the class. Usually by then, I'm so tired and hot, but I love this pose. I couldn't do it all the way for a few weeks, and one day, I just bent over backwards and was able to do it. I only held it for a few seconds, but it was a victory for me. Now, every class, I look forward to seeing how long I can hold it before I have to let go.

People say the different poses bring out varying degrees of emotions. This pose makes me want to cry, scream, and rejoice all at the same time. It's a very emotional pose for me, and maybe that's why I love it so much, because once I'm out of the pose, I feel lighter.

Anyways, I'm going back tonight for the first time in two weeks. Last week's snow really messed up my schedule. I'm really excited. Liz may be joining me and Lydia.

A week of separate cHill family fun

2010-02-15T07:32:00.000-08:00

This weekend, Valentines Weekend, Mr. Chill went to Vegas for some bachelor party fun, and I went out to NJ/NYC for some wifey fun! Oscar stayed home with his favorite sitter. Every once in a while, it's nice to have a break from everybody to kinda refresh and miss each other.

Oscar's paws are looking a bit better. I made Mr. Chill soak his paw again before he headed out on Friday.

Oscar looks so sad, but he's very cooperative for his daddy.

It kinda looks like he's milking Oscar, like a cow, but he's really holding Oscar's back right paw in a bucket of soapy water.

Friday night, after sending off all the boys to the airport, Liz and Lydia (the other two Dulcetta girls) came over and we ate some Indian food and watched Time Travelers Wife on the TV (not as a good movie as we all hoped). We ended up staying up all night for the most part, and Oscar got to join in on the fun. Lydia was great with the pup, being assertive and commanded Oscar's respect, meanwhile, Liz was overwhelmed with Oscar's size and his love for her. He tried to climb onto the couch to smell her and then "hug" her, a little too roughly. So he had to spend some time in his crate for a timeout a few times.

Later in the night, even Oscar succumbed to his sleepiness, and came back up on the couch between me and Liz, and cuddled up to Liz.

He really loved her. And he tried to show it the proper way this time. I think Liz did like the extra heat as the night got colder.

On saturday, the three of us (sans Oscar) drove to NJ for some rest and relaxation at King Sauna. OMG, it was so great. I think it was initially awkward that the three of us would see each other nekkid, but it worked out, and it was kinda freeing. After a few hours of sitting in hot rooms, soaking in the hot tubs, get a skin scrub/exfoliation and a rigourous massage (and $150 later), we left feeling blissful and happy, and hungry. We turned the car around on our way to our Jersey City hotel, and went back towards Fort Lee for some delicious korean bbq. It was only 4:30pm, so we were early and felt like grannies, but we got great service and the price was right. One bottle of Soju, one beer, and two orders of meat later, we left for the hotel, full, blissful, and happy.

We checked in and hung out at the hotel and decided to relax before heading out again to NYC. But instead, we stayed in drink bloody marys, snapple and vodka, and pineapple juice and vodka (we only had vodka obviously) and got even happier while playing drinking games.

Liz likes to do this when she's buzzed:

That's all our engagement and wedding rings on her pinky finger. Talk about bling!

On Sunday, we had lunch in NYC then visited Paper Presentation for some inspiration and ideas.

We made it back home just in time to pick up the boys at the airport. Surprisingly, Mr. Chill was not in a miserable hungover state, and was able to give Oscar his dinner walk. Oscar was so happy to have us both home. He cuddled up to both of us while we watched the Olympics after dinner.

It was a great weekend apart, but it also felt wonderful to have the family together again.

It snows out and all I get is a cone.

2010-02-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

Poor baby Oscar. His back right paw is mildly infected and is having a hard time healing because of the salt, ice, snow, and lack of booties.

We've been soaking it and putting antibacterial ointment on his sensitive paws, but he still likes to chew on it, so a few nights ago, Mr. Chill had to put on THE CONE! Poor Oscar.

Here is a video of Oscar loving his cone.

I love how Mr. Chill ignores him. We didn't want to reinforce that trying to paw at the cone was good. But shortly after, we took off the cone when Oscar couldn't get off the couch with it in. I wish I had video of that!
It continued to snow here, and we had two great snow days off from work. The snow was piling up and the salt was irritating his paw, so some of our walks got cut short and turned into snow play. His recall is awesome in this video. But of course, his recall stinks when we're out in public or in puppy school.

Another snow day coming up!

2010-02-09T09:10:00.000-08:00

Looks liks it's going to be another big storm tonight. It won't end until later afternoon tomorrow... poor Oscar. I know he's not getting the most of his exercise since it's slippery out and his paws are cold.

Speaking of paws, we decided not to use the booties. First, his paws are too big, and he was not happy about putting something on his feet. Mr. Chill thinks he'll be fine. Boo. More paw soaking and cleaning out of paws. Poor baby.

In other news, I purchased this nifty plastic container. It holds my lunch, two snacks, and a cold pack! Yesterday, I made an egg salad sandwich, red bell pepper strips, and pineapple chunks. Today, it's holding a salad with egg, grilled chicken, sprouts, mushrooms, and red onion, red pepper strips, and strawberries.

I did not go to the gym yesterday, although dinner was cancelled. Went shopping for Oscar, then went grocery shopping at a very un-stocked Acme. Then I stood in the checkout line for an hour! I was wondering why the lines were not moving... because people DO NOT bag their own groceries! What is wrong with you people?! I wish people would be more gracious and bag their own groceries.

Today, I'd love to go to bikram, but not properly packed for the class. Instead, going to go to the gym, and may hang out in the sauna to think of the many things I need to do for tomorrow now that I have declared it a snow day! Bikram may have to wait until Thursday... if my meeting ends on time, I may just go to a different studio for a drop in class. I need to do it at least 2x a week, and I'm very sad I will only do it once this week. I even found a studio near our rental home in Monterey for when we visit in March. Maybe I can drag Lydz along. ;)

Finding time to work out

2010-02-08T16:00:00.000-08:00

Why is it that I feel like there are never enough hours in a day? Especially when it comes to working out?

I try to hit the gym, or do bikram yoga, 4x a week. I really should do more, but trying to make the 4 classes is TOUGH. Getting there is half the battle.

For example, I made plans to have dinner with my Dulcetta girls (to be announced in the near future) in the city. Plenty of time to hit the gym beforehand. But then I realized, Oscar needs paw booties because the snow and the salt is doing a mean number on his precious paws. I would say this is a priority especially since we're supposed to be hit with another 12 inches of snow tomorrow, and his paws looks so sad.

In true planner fashion, I called Buzzy's, our great dog food supplier, and asked if they had dog booties. Yes they do!

They carry Ultra Paws booties, and they have decent reviews. Hopefully winter is almost over, so Oscar will only need these for another month or so. They're not as cute as some other booties I saw, but these look like they will stay on.

So my plan is to purchase these today along with some food and treats for our pup. Then drive into the city and pick up Mr. Chill, go to dinner, and come home. There is something about working out after 6pm that is very unappealing to me. Will just have to do double tomorrow I guess. Oh right, I have to do grocery shopping tomorrow too.

Introducing Chill family!

2010-02-08T08:50:00.000-08:00

So I've changed Oscar's diary to be a more encompassing blog about Oscar, myself, and the doings of our family. Most likely, it will be more about me and Oscar, with tiny tidbits of Mr. Chill since he's very private.

Anywho, thanks to everyone who's been following Oscar's diary!

Today, I will leave you with a pictures of my cute pup in about 20" of snow from this weekends blizzard!

I have no idea how little doggies go to the bathroom outside. It took Oscar a few hours to find a safe place to poop!

Oscar's hippy hips

2010-01-20T07:37:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while, we've all noticed that Oscar drags his back right leg during walks. Sometimes, especially when it's cold outside and he's tired, he refuses to walk and sits down on the sidewalk, middle of the street, or in the bushes (Look mom, I'm a tree!). My biggest worry was that he may have hip dysplasia which is common in breeds like American Bulldogs.

With the suggestion of our trainer and dog walkers, we decided to have Oscar checked out by his favorite vet, Dr. Wilkerson at Mt Airy Vet. We decided to wait on xrays until the doc suggested it...

So off we went to the vets office. Well first, we had to have Oscar try out the new ramp to climb into the back of the SUV.

That took a while. Chris was getting frustrated and said, "Christina, I swear, if we wasted $120 on this stupid ramp that Oscar won't use..." and almost on cue, Oscar ran up the ramp and sat down inside the SUV. Ha!

We drove to the office, then we tried to get Oscar out of the car via Ramp. A few minutes later, Oscar was getting showered with love and kisses by the staff at the vets office. Oh, he's such a stud there!

There was another big dog in the waiting room, and a german shepherd came out later from his appointment, and they both greeted each other nicely. I think the german shepherd wanted to play because he gave Oscar a great big play bow. Well... it's the doctor's office, not a playground. So Oscar went back to focusing on us for treats.

We went into the exam room, and his favorite blond nurse initiated the new staff nurse by introducing Oscar to her along with his drool, which ended up all over her crotch. What a mean joke! But Oscar didn't mind. He loves the attention there.

We first ruled out Lyme Disease, then talked to the doc about Glyco Flex pills and trimming down Oscar's weight even more. He's also fit, but he suggested we get him almost skinny, which will help his joints.

Great news is that the doctor didn't think an xray would be necessary at his point. He was able to flex Oscar's back legs, and he wasn't in pain. We will bring him in if Oscar starts to limp most of the time and if he has a more difficult time getting up after a long nap. But with the weight management and pills, he thinks Oscar will be find. Let's hope so!

Big Update!

2010-01-12T12:49:00.000-08:00

So it's been a long time since we've updated! Lots have happened since...

Let's start with our new bulldog-mobile.

We got rid of the little jetta, and upgraded to a cross-over SUV. Why? To accomodate Oscar. But now, it's too high, and our little baby will need a ramp to get in and out of the back trunk.

Here is Oscar chilling on his way to Blue Bell Park - one of his last rides in the jetta.

Since our last post, Oscar has continued to love us. See exhibit A below.

A.

B. Maybe daddy loves Oscar too much.

C. Spent a nice day outside pretending to be super serious and sexy.

Halloween came and went, and we couldn't find him a cool costume in his size. So instead, he borrowed our fedora hat for a few seconds. Then he thought about eating it, so we had to put it away. Far away.

In mid December, we went on a cruise to the caribbean, leaving Oscar with his dog sitter and Queenies. This was the longest we've left him, and to say that I was nervous and anxious would be an understatement. I had to hold myself back from texting our dog sitting 24/7.

So we were on this... (a cruise)

Enjoying some of this

and this.

Our flights were cancelled back to Philadelphia, so we enjoyed some more of this:

while Oscar enjoyed this.

A week after we returned, it was Christimas! Of course, we couldn't neglect our baby and not get him a gift, so we gave him his little football with string tug. What a perfect gift we thought!

Yes, Oscar LOVED it. A bit too much. He started to SWALLOW the rope, along with the toy. So we took it away. Far away. Like in the garbage forever, away. Poor Oscar.

Now that Oscar is 1.5 years old, and he's been very good (aka no household-damaging-chewing), we've started to allow him full reign of the 1st floor of the house if someone is home. This also includes sleeping on the couch at night, while the adults sleep in the bedroom. I picture him sleeping like this when we're not looking...

But in the morning, I usually find him like this:

I've also started working in a real office recently, but only temporarily. So I think Oscar misses me being home with him all day. Because honestly... he loves to deter me from working on my laptop.

His big head always gets in the way. Fortunately he hasn't drooled enough to short circuit my laptop.

More of Oscar in New Hampshire (by Oscar)

2009-10-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe mommy didn't write about my time in the water. I hate showers and baths, but I definitely grew to like the lake water... sorta.

I knew I had to help out somehow, so I decided to save Daddy's sister and her boyfriend from the scary lake:

I pulled that boat and all the passengers to safety - Super Oscar!

Daddy and Mommy bought me a new toy, but they tricked me... they threw it into the lake, I chased it and before I knew it, I was waste deep in water!

How did I get out so far?

I eventually got used to going into the lake, but only up to my neck, I did not want to get my pretty hair on top of my head wet:

You want me to go how far to get the frizbee?

Whew, I got it, and I kept my head (mostly) dry! I'm heading back to dry land...

No, I do not want to go back into the lake, just give me the damn frizbee!

I gots me my frizbee and I iz doing fine here, thank you very much.

Our trip to Lake Winnepesauke

2009-10-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

Over the summer the Hill family head up to New Hampshire to spend time with the rest of the Hill family.

This is a photo journal of our journey.

On the trip up, Oscar threw up within 1 hour. He usually doesn't get car sick, so it was a bit disturbing. He also barely slept during the whole ride. He was either a) excited, b) sick, or c) scared that the baby gate in the back seat was going to fall on him. We think it was d) all of the above.

For some odd reason, Oscar started to hang out like this in the car. He is so big, he can use the head rest as his pillow!

We finally go to the island, and Oscar was scared of getting onto the boat. We also did not think he could swim. So we SHOVED him into the boat, and CARRIED him off of it. Fortunately, he learned very quickly that a boat ride is much like a car ride and eventually he figured out how to get on and off without any help... even when we did NOT want him on the boat... but that's another story.

Chris' dad rented a sailboat for the trip. Here is Oscar watching the boat come in. He's like your personal welcoming committee.

Yay! The boat's here!

Here is a great picture of Oscar hanging out inside the house. He was SO rowdy during the trip, but he was always so gentle with Grandma. She loved him, and he loved her back. Sadly, Grandma passed away a few days ago, and we're all so thankful we were able to see her recently. Hopefully lots of Oscars are up in heaven taking care of her.

Like I said, Oscar was usually rowdy, so he was usually leashed up. Here is Chris holding onto a long lead with Oscar at the end of it. He is also rocking the socks with flipflops look. He's so hot.

Oscar LOVED the boat rides.

He also loves car rides, especially in a new Mercedes. I think Chris' dad was worried Oscar would DROOL all over his new leather seats. But Oscar wasn't concerned about drool. At some point prior to the trip, he had eaten some socks, and he was in the habit of throwing them up... again. So we took him to the vet on the mainland to get him checked out.

Oscar always feels bad after he eats socks. He knows he shouldn't. But I think once they end up in his mouth, he forgets all that, and the tastiest of socks outwins the consequences. Ah... free will.

Chris driving the boat.

Chris, Jenn, Pete, and I went out for lunch at this great seafood place. We stuffed ourselves with oysters, steamers, fish and chips, etc. Oh my... it was heaven.

Chris was grill master the one night we had bbq for dinner. BBQ chicken, steaks... every night was a gourmet meal.

Chris and I took turns waking up early to take care of Oscar. One morning, Oscar woke up so early, the rest of the house was still asleep. We hung out on the front porch trying to make as little noise as possible. We practically watched the sun come up. For a city girl and city dog, we loved that porch and looking out onto the lake every day. I think we could live like this.

Oscar loves people watching. He was watched Jenn and Pete paddle up to the shore.

Video of Oscar greeting Jenn and Pete.

At some point, Chris took me out on the Sunfish again. This time, we did not get stranded. Oh wait, yes we did. The wind died. It was a very calm week on the island. Eventually Chris paddled us back to the dock.

I had a great time nonetheless. I find the Sunfish to be very romantic. Especially when you're not moving. Then you imagine sharks circling you. Wait... we're on a lake. Never mind.

Later our family went onto a boat expedition to explore the area around our island. Oscar was loved it.

Chris was the captain.

I just sat there.

Oscar made funny faces the whole time.

Oscars lips flap in the wind. It's like hair blowing in the wind... but funnier.

We finally had a day with some wind, so Chris' dad and grandfather took the big sailboat out. I tagged along because I've never been on a sailboat larger than the Sunfish. I had a great time... I also got burnt.

Chris' grandfather steering.

The boat docked.

Whew, what a trip! Oscar slept on the whole ride home back to Philadelphia.

Oscar farts a lot.

2009-10-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Oscar just let out a huge fart while he was sleeping, and woke himself up. He lifted his head towards his butt and had this expression on his face that read "what the hell is that smell?!"

Days 4-10

2009-07-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Honestly, Days Four through Eight are all about the same.

The doggies stayed at home with me during the day. They were awesome. Having Rory around also helped train Oscar more about manners in the house. We opened up the entire first floor and gave them access to the stairs to the 2nd floor. If Chris was home and in his office, we let the puppies roam on the 2nd floor too. Sometimes, Rory would stay upstairs while Oscar stayed downstairs. A little of space is not a bad thing.

One day when Chris wasn't home yet, Oscar decided to sleep at the top of the stairs.

But this is usually where he sleeps:

They's been so exhausted, they'll play for 10 minutes then crash for an hour!

I love it!

Rory is not used to sleeping in her crate. She'll hesitantly go in for her bedtime and sleep until 5:30 then bark bark bark. One time I let her out, thinking she wanted to pee, but she grabbed one of the toys and took it outside and looked back at me as if to say, "Let's play!" Meanwhile, I can hear Oscar howling and whining, "Why does she get to be out of the crate and not me?" He's such a baby.

But I love this picture.

One time, just before Queenie's Pets came for a lunch walk, I found Rory sleeping like this:

Then I realized, I woke her up (probably with my flash. Sorry!)

Day 8 was Rory's birthday! She is now officially 1 year old!

On Day 9, Saturday... we didn't do much because I was feeling under the weather.

Finally, on Day 10, we had quite the adventure. As a family, we all got into the VW and headed over to Rite Aid to pick up some medicine. Of course, since it was just a trip in the car, I told Chris not to worry about the leashes. Later, Chris decided to turn the car on to keep the AC on for the pups. The battery died instead.

Multiple failed jumps later, and with two new leashes from Rite Aid (thank goodness we were at Rite Aid! A pet store would've haven more ideal though), we walked home. It was less than a mile, so this ended up being their early lunch walk.

Everyone made it home safely and without any heat stroke- phew!

Day Three with Rory

2009-07-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

On Day Three, we threw a last minute bbq at our house. Unfortunately, we were too busy prepping for the party that we did not take any pictures.

But the dogs were great. Oscar met CJ, the baby, again, then barked at the poor baby trying to figure out why the baby wouldn't play with him. Rory just laid down and let everyone fuss over her. She was the star of the day!

Oscar has a youtube channel!

2009-07-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's day 10 and I need to catch up!

2009-07-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

I only blogged about Day 1, and it's already Sunday (Day 10) and Rory is only here for about 6 more hours!

So...

Here's the recap:

Day 2:
Saturday - more playing and lots more sleeping. Playing with your friend 24/7 can get tiring!

We also took time out to do some walking.

The puppies both use the same color gentle leader head halters. Except Rory's is still the original color and nice, while Oscar's is gross and dark brown after coating it with his saliva.

Rory knows she's the shiet.

Then we went to Pastorius Park. What an adventure!

On the way to the park:

I love how Rory always lies down. Sometimes she'll just get in the car and lie down, and refuse to move over to one side, so Oscar has no choice but to sit on her. She doesn't seem to mind though.

We always bring water to the park since Oscar is the type to get dehydrated quickly. It was super hot, so we also brought along a bowl of icecubes!

Oscar's big nose is always in the way.

Here's Chris. Not sure if he's still convinced about being a two dog household, but he's smiling!

Cesar Milan --- move over! Chris Hill is the new Dog Whisperer.

Oscar- he knows how to work it for the camera.

While Oscar hung out in the shade, Rory sat in a big puddle of mud.

Then she jumped into the lake:

I wish Oscar would swim.

After the trip to the park, we gave both puppies a nice bath. They were both smelling great!

Then they went to sleep.

Day one with GF

2009-07-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Meet Rory!

Okay, I know you've already met her, but it's rare to get a picture like this of her when she's with Oscar because she's too busy licking or humping his face.

Just in case you forgot, here's Oscar:

Rory and Oscar are going steady. It's so serious that we've allowed her to stay with us for over a week! Well, actually she has stayed with us before, but that was when they were both only 5 months old! Now they're both almost 1 year old.

So much has changed! Lots of playing, but much more napping. I think they're getting old. :)

There's a lot of this:

Separate bone and antler chewing.

One watching the other sleep:

They're really cute.

We went on our lunch walk and they both use the gentle leader. Great on the walk, both of them! Met people very nicely and just trotted along. Afterwards, (it was very hot outside) they did this:

Oscar hearts his new toy

2009-07-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

For your viewing pleasure... Oscar eating his new stuff toy. He particularly loves the tongue, ears, and plastic eye balls.

Castration is a bitch

2009-07-07T07:43:00.001-07:00

So last week on Wednesday, Oscar, at precisely 11 months of age, went to get have his testicles removed.

And to celebrate that, I put him into a very tight baseball jersey.

He was not happy about it, the shirt and the lack of balls, but he was nice enough stay still for some pictures. Also, I have no idea why my rug looks so disgusting It's not that bad in real life, but I think it is time for another steam cleaning!

Anyways, back to the surgery... in addition to the neutering, Oscar also had a microchip implanted somewhere. He was very calm and obedient the first two days, and soon afterwards, he was back to his normal self.

Just a few changes since the surgery:
1) Less humping = success!
2) Less marking during the walk (our typical walk = 4 markings, now = 1 or none markings)
3) Mushy poops. But this may be from the medicine or because he ate something again.

I'm home during the day for a limited time, so I plan on posting more pics and videos!

Sad News

2009-06-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

First Farah Fawcett dies, then Michael Jackson.

Soon...

My masculinity will die as well.

That's right folks. It's snip-snip time... and the date is quickly approaching.

July 1, I will be in the hospital, and leave with a cone on my head. I will make my parents pay by not humping them anymore.

...help me...

My first ginormous waterbowl

2009-06-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, and my mommy and daddy bought me the world's BIGGEST water bowl!

They tried to throw me in, but I'm too heavy!

So my girlfriend came over. Rory loves the water. They thought Rory would entice me into the waterbowl. Nope!

"Hey, what are you doing in my water bowl? We're supposed to drink it, not lie in it!"

"You better get your furry paws out of my water bowl!"

"Are you just going to ignore me? Rory... is it fun?"

I think Oscar and Rory had a great time. Rory jumped in a few time, she's a great water dog! Oscar did not want any of it. He didn't even stick his paw into the water. Just his muzzle to get a nice cold drink. Oh well. We tried....

Happy Oscar

2009-05-18T07:26:00.000-07:00

There have been too many posts recently about Oscar's digestive problems or near emergencies about him swallowing something dangerous. Its due time for a nice everything is hunky-dory post (and of course some gratuitous pictures!)

As an update - Oscar is off his antibiotics, and it seems as if all of his digestive issues have cleared up (we are still supplementing his huge meals of kibble with a little double-boiled white rice); they have cleared up so much that he's actually even better then before his "carpet-string is yummy but hurts coming out" episode.

Oscar is a big boy and has a lot of love to give. He loves a number of things: Rory (his golden-retriever girlfriend), food, toys, me and his mommy (sometimes he loves mommy too much - he does the Humpty-Dance with her!).

Here is a picture of Oscar as happy as can be after another one of his favorite things: a nice long walk of sniffing, marking his territory (he has finally started lifting his leg to pee!), meeting other dogs and people, and generally getting out and about:

Notice the big grin from ear to ear (or are you looking at his red-rocket, sicko!), either way a very happy (and content) Oscar.

Here is Oscar happy with his tennis ball, which he has recently learned to catch in his mouth after we throw it to him.

He likes to move as little as possible, so all he has to do is open his mouth for the ball to fall into place. He's like a very finicky baseball catcher who calls the pitch and refuses to move his glove if the pitcher misses the mark.

As mentioned in previous posts, Oscar loves sticks:

Do not disturb Oscar when chewing on his stick...

Here, I've distracted him with some kibble to get his attention...

No matter, the stick is better...

And he digs right back in.

Finally, Oscar loves to lounge on the cool wooden floor and watch TV (he really likes the Dog Whisperer)

Good-bye for now.

Do you have something sticking out of your butt or are you just happy to see me?

2009-05-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Oscar and here I am at the vets office at 8:30 in the morning. I kept wanted to poop every 2 hours the night before, so mommy and daddy were really worried. I'm feeling a bit sad and maybe feeling a little bit of pain, but I'm tough, so mommy and daddy really have no idea what's wrong with me.

The doctor first thought I had a bacterial infection. Then he said it could be food allergies (he's like House). Just when we were about to go home...

I pooped and string came out of my butt! Daddy tried to help me pull it out, thinking it would only be a wee-tiny bit... but it hurt, and I howled and cried, and 4 feet of string later, daddy pinned me to the ground while mommy and the doctors ran out with scissors.

Thank you daddy for saving me.

No surgery needed, but I didn't want to poop the rest out, so they kept me in the hospital then sedated me. I fell alseep like a big rock, and I probably snored (so embarrassing!) and they pulled the rest of the string (from a shag rug) out. I was up again - and I was so happy to see mommy and daddy. Then I went home and slept on the couch, the arm chair, on the dining room rug, in my crate, and in the bed in the kitchen.

Then I woke up this morning at 4am and did the same thing (sleeping, that is).

I was back to my rambuctious self again. After a few hours of doing that, I was pooped (not literally)!

Oscar graduated!

2009-04-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

Oscar finally finished Puppy II a few weeks ago...

(Sorry for the delay!)

Here are some graduation pic: Rory the Golden Retriever (aka Oscar's steady girlfriend) and Sadie the Pug (Oscar's mistress)

After the playing and Rory's face humping, Oscar was tired!

Now on Monday nights, instead of class, we all just hang out at home. When Oscar is not humping his mommy and daddy, he is usually doing this: pouting.

or sleeping on the dining room carpet:

In other news: we went to Dallas (minus Oscar) to see Christina's family and got to hang out with Kobi, my sister's yorkie mix dog. He is very sweet. He is so small, that when he tries to hump us, we LAUGH at him. Oscar's 100 lb humping is much harder to resist.

Poor Poopie

2009-04-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

Oscar has been eating Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance- Lamb and Rice Allergy Formula Limited Ingredients - for about 2 months now. He's always had poopie problems. But recently it got worse.

Doc W at Mt. Airy Vet said he's a perfect example of a doggie with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).

Because Oscar is such a tough puppy, we rarely know if he's in pain (he ate a sock once and it sat in this stomach for 10 days. he tried to throw it up a few times, but we never knew it was painful!!!!) - but the doc says he has colitis - and his colon is probably all inflamed (TMI?), so we got some new meds for the pup.

The freaky part? It's supposed to block him off for 4-5 DAYS! No poop! I hope that doesn't mean bad gas.

***********

In other news, I had some girlfriends over on Saturday night and since we had glasses out in the living room, we kept Oscar in the kitchen with the baby gate. I expected him to cry and whine, and possibly try to knock the baby gate down (although he's never done this before)...

But he was a gentleman! He layed on his bed in the kitchen, and watched us through the baby gate, and eventually snored away more of the night, despite our loudness.

What a trooper.

In this corner, in the red and white fur, at 8 months old, weighing in at...

2009-04-03T09:42:00.001-07:00

ONE HUNDRED POUNDS!

Yes, it's OSCAR!

Last night, we brought Oscar to the vet because he was having some tummy-problems. He's a tough dog, but he has the intestinal fortitude of a garden worm (or some other animal that food goes right through). Oscar unfortunately just can't eat any types of rich food (potentially including peanut butter... its going to be tough replacing that favorite snack).

At the beginning of the exam, we got Oscar on the scale and our jaws dropped as the indicator went into triple-digits. I'm mad that I forgot to take a picture of him on the scale. Okay, so officially, the scale read 98.8 lbs once it balanced, but I'm pretty sure over the last 24 hours, he's gained that extra 1.2 lbs...

Prior to yesterday, we incorrectly estimated that he weighed roughly 85 lbs, and estimated a potential final weight around 115 lbs... guess we were wrong. I'm not sure if he's going to get up to 130 lbs, but given his rate of weight gain, all bets are currently off.

Oscar the "Stud Muffin"

2009-03-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

Not my words. But apparently Oscar's friendly dog-walker, Adina, thinks so. She called him a "stud muffin" in her last note to us. It got me thinking, he is pretty buff - he's in a whole lot better shape then me! So, I tried to see if I could take some pictures of him flexing his muscles. While getting him to "sit" and "down" are much easier then "flex" - it appears that his muscles are just naturally toned, even for a 7 month old dog:

Beware of Dog. Ha ha, I may look tough, but I really just want to lick you to death!

Look at my lightening quick reflexes - I can stop on a dime (or a twig!)

Hey ladies, the beach...is this way.... oooh yeah!

Who does not have opposable thumbs, but is built like a tank? This guy!

Really, I'm a lover... not a fighter...

And here's just a random picture of Oscar's butt. It's a little brindle coloring that has shown up

in a very very cool looking zig-zag pattern on his tail:

Oscar in Oz?

2009-03-16T11:12:00.000-07:00

While there was no recent tornado activity in our area, Oscar found himself the other day, in what seemed to be something similar to the poppy-field in the Wizard of Oz. While definitely not poppies (I actually was told the name of these purple wildflowers, but I have since forgoten), the front lawn of this house (not mine, which is why Oscar is outside the gate!) was intriguing to me and I thought the lawn, and of course Oscar, were picture-worthy.

Sleepy, this purple poppy field is making me sleepy - where's Glinda, the Good Witch, when you need her?

Oh there she is - now I'm getting hungry and excited, see my drool!

I'm getting out of this crazy purple poppy field, because the Good Witch beckons!

I've found you Good Witch, but your name is not Glinda - its RORY!

No time to play Rory, we've got to find the Wizard!

Okay, we can play, forget that wizard...

Rory told Oscar that he needed to retrieve the magical ball and rope, to bring to the Wizard, so he could get Oscar home.

Yeah, Oscar was triumphant and eventually made it home...

The craziness that ensues when we're not home...

2009-03-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

First, he brings home girls without permission. He's such a pimp.

Here is Normal, a mastiff. On any given week, he manages to visit other girlfriends: Rory, Sylvie (Rory's sister!!!), Moxie (Rory's cat - isn't that illegal in dog world?), Abbey, an god knows who else when we're not home. Then on the weekends, Oscar's flirting with random females at the dog park, usually the smaller ones. He's such a mack-daddy.

Please love me Normal. I'm not as big as you, but I try hard.

Here's with another fellow Queenie's Pets:

Oh... too many hugs!

I'm doing my flirty dance... hello? Do you care?

This is me at the end of the play date. Pooped and tired, and trying to look good for the camera. I like to show my teeth because they're getting big and they hurt sometimes.

Thanks to all our dog walkers for taking photos for us! :)

Top 10 Oscar Traits (plus more pictures!)

2009-02-26T11:27:00.000-08:00

1) Oscar is a drooly monster. It's worst after a long drink of water, but it's very cute when his girlfriend tries to lick away his drool.

(I gotta get me some water - just look how muddy I am! mmmm water!)

2) He usually walks up at 6:45am whining, waking us up. When I come downstairs to let him out of the crate, he'll just lay back down and pass out.

(I like sleeping - here's what I look like when I'm sleep-walking)

3) Sticks. It's like crack to Oscar.

(mmmm sticks - so many sticks, so little time!)

4) Sometimes it's easy to mistake Oscar for a pig. He grunts like a baby piglet.

(trust me, I'm making some very pig-like noises here rooting around for sticks in the park)

5) Oscar has really bad gas. Recently, it has gotten better, but when he farts, it's silent but VERY deadly.

(wasn't me. Just kiddin'! It was totally me!)

6) He likes light colored dogs, more specifically light blond retrievers and mini poodle mixes. If he's feeling rebellious, he'll move in on a pug.

(now that's what I'm talkin' about - NICE!)

7) One time he got so worked up in puppy kindergarten, he threw up his entire dinner and all the treats from class. It was really gross.

(I remember being sad about losing all that food)

8) Oscar loves everyone, specifically people's crotches, more specifically crotches during a menstrual cycle.

(this pink Kong filled with peanut butter is good, but it doesn't smell as good as period-crotch...)

9) He ate his favorite stuffed monkey's tail. Our poor dogwalker found it in his poop a week later. He hasn't really loved his monkey as much since.

(that's right, no tail-ey, no like-y. You got a problem with that?)

10) Oscar is our baby, just like real human babies are to parents. People think we're weird, but Oscar loves it.

(I love them most when they feed me - is that food I see coming?)

Here are some more pictures taken the same day at the park. It was a muddy day in early February due to all of the snow melting. Oscar had just turned 6 months old. All photos coutesy of Andrew Ippolito (http://www.strivestudios.com/) a fantastic photographer and friends with Christina.

(trying to look cute covered with mud)

(making friends)

(getting excited)

(getting really excited)

(checking out the scene)

(looking for more friends)

(trying to get the last bit of peanut butter from the Kong)

4 months ago...

2009-02-04T12:14:00.000-08:00

Just for comparison purposes, this was taken 4 months prior to the pictures that are in the last post.

One thing is not like the other.... hmmm, what has changed in 4 months?

I can't wait to take a similar picture in another 4 months - by then Christina will be sitting on Oscar's lap...

You are NOT little!

2009-02-02T15:00:00.000-08:00

I think it was Saturday morning...

I sat on the kitchen floor while Chris made breakfast to play with Oscar. But instead, he slowly walked over to me and placed one paw at a time into my lap.

Four paws and 65 lbs later...

Sometimes we really thinks he's still a tiny puppy!

Okay, you're getting really heavy... get down.

Sleeping like a human...

2009-02-02T14:00:00.000-08:00

No I am not dead.... or playing dead...

My name is Oscar and I like to sleep like a human.

... on my back all twisted about.

It's really comfy. You should try it.

Even my upper lip can't resist relaxing to gravity.

Oscar's first Superbowl!

2009-02-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

Since neither the Eagles or Patriots were in the Superbowl, we weren't very interested. Chris was sick anyways, but we thought we'd try to watch the game, if not at least for the commercials.

Here is Oscar's reaction when we told him that we were NOT watching The Office or Battlestar Galatica, but football instead...

And about 20 minutes later, this is how we felt about Steelers intercepting the shouldabeen touchdown football from the Cardinals....

Nature vs. Nurture?

2009-01-27T06:23:00.000-08:00

The age old question continues. After seeing all the traits that were passed down to Oscar from his birth parents and grandparents in the previous post, here's a little trait that may be based more upon nurture (although, I believe in my heart, he was born a Sox fan!):

Oscar's Family

2009-01-22T11:07:00.000-08:00

This post is long overdue, but by request from my husband, I'm finally posting it!

Oscar's parents names are Billy (on the left) and Zena (on the right):

and another one:

Here's Zena as a puppy:

And here's Billy as a puppy, notice the white tip tail and the stick in his mouth - two common traits of his son, Oscar:

Zena's mom- Leah:

Doesn't this look like Oscar from the back?! Also this is where Oscar got his brown nose!

source: http://www.smittysbullies.com/leah.html

Zena's dad -Taz:

source: http://www.smittysbullies.com/taz.html

Billy's Parents: http://americanbulldogglory.com/Zeus.html
Billy's mom - Naya (also a brown-noser) :

Billy's dad - Scottie 2 Hottie

Billy's Pedigree:

Zena's Pedigree:

source: http://www.bulldogsofnj.com/

Now that Oscar's bigger, if Chris and I are both on the couch, after some time, Oscar will jump off the couch in a huff and pace around the living room and eventually call it a night in his crate. He loves the new bed we got him for christmas. The door to the crate is usually open during the day when we're home, so at night if we're watching TV, we'll leave it open for him to go in and out, and also to grab his toys.
One night while watching TV, we noticed him snoring away, sleeping like this:

He LOVES to sleep with his head hanging... he used to do this on the couch, and we'd cradle his head so it wouldn't eventually dislodge off his neck! Now his head's too heavy...

Oscar is big... like 65 pounds big.

He's 5 1/2 months old.. that's it.

A few months ago this was him:

This picture was taken the first day after we brought him home. Chris was watching TV on his leather chair with ottoman, and Oscar fell asleep on his lap.

Close up of his sweet face:

Sleeping with Chris on the couch:

And picture from the first night we brought him home:

Wow, that blue toy is in all these pictures!

Happy Holidays.....

2009-01-08T10:47:00.000-08:00

like two weeks ago. :(

It's late I know... but I really wanted to post about our holiday cards.

My very talented friend and wedding collegue came over for a mini photo shoot and took photos of us for our card. He took a lot of images, and after lots of thoughts, arguing, and negotiating, we agreed on these 3 for our family card (it was originally supposed to be ONE image).

Here are some close ups:

All photo credit to Jeremy Evans Thomas - at www.lifeinblue.com

In these photos, we're wearing our traditional Korean outfits, to symbol a formal occasion (Christmas and New Years) but more importantly Oscar's 100 day birthday (which was back in early Nov, so we're a little behind!).

Once we get the other photos, I'll post them - maybe even enroll Oscar in the cutest dog ever contest at Daily Puppy... which he is!

Rocky

2009-01-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

A while back I posted about Oscar's other siblings...

One of them was Rocky:

From Diary of Oscar

This is Rocky now:

Wendy from Gittingers sent me this photo as an update on Rocky. This picture was taken at 1 year old - over 100 lbs!!! But what a great looking dog he is! He has the same "tail dipped in white paint" as Oscar.

Here are more pics of Rocky:
http://www.bulldogsofnj.com/goliath.htm

WAYYYY overdue post....

2009-01-05T12:45:00.000-08:00

Back in Early December, Oscar's girlfriend Rory came over for a sleepover... for one full week! It was heaven for both of them, but it definitely kept us on our toes. We tried to find ways for them to calm down TOGETHER.

One thing that worked were any chews - at this point, we were allowing Oscar to gnaw on shark cartiladge (supposed to prevent cancer, and other cool stuff), and it smells like fish, and Oscar and Rory both loved them. So we got two, one for each, but they each just wanted the same one each time!

Here is Rory gnawing away and Oscar looking sad....

I did finally get them to calm down... they eventually learned how to sleep on the couch , but I had to keep them separated. Rory is a much more delicate sleeper. I think Oscar's loud snoring kept her awake all week... sorry.

Here there are on the couch with noone between them... I swear, if I leave them alone just for 1 minute, they figure out a way to play together instantly.

Around this time, Oscar and Rory were both losing baby teeth and teething. This is Oscar's first lost baby tooth. You can see the hole.

Here is Oscar pretending to be sleeping, with Rory in the background.

A random picture from Adina of Queenie's Pets... I think Oscar was being naughty and digging!!!

But I still love him...

His head is SO big! I just make up at least 30% of his total weight!

Silly photo courtesy of Noah our dog walker.

Bat or dog? Bird?

Normal looks so much HUGER compared to Oscar! Same age... Normal is a mastiff.

For Christmas, we all packed up the car and drove 8 hours to Ohio to see Chris' family. Oscar had the whole back seat to himself, with his new doggy bed (which is super comfy). It took him a total of 20 minutes for him to finally lie down and sleep.

Which he did for the rest of the trip. We had to drag him out of the car for potty breaks and lunch.

He was usually like this...

Jealous, I wish I could've slept like that in the car!

Oscar's bottom lip has been sticking out a lot lately... more often when he's tired or has been napping. It's so cute. It makes him look like he's pouting.

All the pictures for now!

He did great on the car ride to Ohio, and wonderful at their home. He didn't get much of a chance to play with Sophie, my mother in law's dog, but once the snow finally melted in Ohio, he did get a chance to run around their huge backyard.

We also went to his first official dog park yesterday. There must have been at least 10 other dogs at one point, and he got along with everyone, including humans. Sometimes, it was sad to see all the dogs playing, and Oscar in the middle by his lonesome, just waiting patiently for someone to give him food.