Menu Monday: Chocolate? Chocolate?

I'm back, Baby, I'm back! While I have been managing this blog from afar, I've realized how much writing it actually contributes to my happiness. After pre-writing a few posts this weekend I got up from the computer feeling happier than I have in a long time. It brought to fruition the original reason I started this blog in the first place; to document the happy life I live (forcing me to actively think about the happiness which is liberally spread throughout my life-- instead of dwelling on the negative.)

Man, did I have a hair across my ass for a while there or what? Rest assured, I'm not one of those people who licks her wounds and does nothing about it. I am working to get a change of scenery where the job front is concerned (the hours I work are the main reason for my dissatisfaction [not the job.]) That said, I am going to try to be more deliberate about sitting down in the morning and getting something on "paper"; it just makes me feel better.

So, this picture has nothing to do with today's post but c'mon, he's tasty, isn't he? You have to admit that.

Anyway, I digress from Menu Monday, which isn't about food; it's just food-themed.

I am not the most finesse of people. To use my name and the word "gentle" in the same sentence is laughable. My mother refers to me as a "Bull in the China shop." My mouth isn't loud, I'm just a little clumsy and a loud walker. The same holds true with electronics-- I type loudly, I often drop cameras (and anything else of value) and I abuse my cell phone. I treat that thing terribly (which is why I will never buy an expensive phone). To help get the most life out of my cell phones, I buy covers for them.

Recently, I dropped my cell phone and broke the cover clean off. Aaron, knowing my phone was unprotected, took me to get a new cover this weekend. We walked into the cell phone store and while Aaron was perusing the shelves, I went to the counter to make my purchase. The following conversation ensued:

Creepy Clerk: Will this be all? Just this accessory?

Jessi: Yep, that's it. Can you put it on for me too?

CC: Absolutely. (ringing in the purchase) That'll be $19.99.

J: (Handing over debit card) Thank you.

CC: (Breathy whisper) Chocolate?

J: I'm sorry?

CC: Choc-o-late?

J: Um, yes please?

CC: No, YOU... smell like chocolate.

J: Oh, (completely creeped out) I do?

CC: (Grossly smelling the air) Mmmmm, yes you do!

Aaron: (who appeared at my side out of nowhere) Excuse me? Did I miss something?

J: Um, (so uncomfortable) well, he says I smell like chocolate.

A: Oh really? (slightly sarcastic and protective) Yes, my wife smells good doesn't she?

CC: (Hurried) Here's your receipt. Have a great night.

Hahahahahahaha. My husband the hero rescued me from Mr. Creeper.

Okay, I surrender

My in-laws just returned home to New Hampshire from a 10-day-trip to Italy. One of the first things my father-in-law mentioned to me was about my lack of blogging. So, in order to keep my readers and my darling McPepe happy, this morning I bit the bullet and purchased additional storage for a small annual fee. It takes 24-hours to post to the blogger account so, expect prolific updates from me this week. We have so much to catch up on.

XO

Wednesday, What?

So, I diligently tried to update my blog this morning with pictures from our romantic getaway to Pittsburg for our one year anniversary. Unfortunately, blogger is telling me I have reached my image storage limit and can't update with pictures until I "purchase additional storage for a small yearly fee." I, personally, think it's bullshit but I will probably end up doing it because I don't want this to be the "end of my posting pictures days." I need to piss and moan about this for a day or two. Keep checking back. I'll probably cave in.

Owl betcha weren't expecting a face-lift on "I SPY"

I finally have time to fart around on my blog and make adjustments to things I've been dying to toy with. I just love the perks of vacation. Thank you LeeLou Blogs for the new digs!

Other than spending a ridiculous amount of time tweaking this botox free blog I have also been devouring books, laying around, and crafting (okay and shopping online if I must admit) So much to post about at a later date but, for now, I'm resting comfortably enjoying some time off with my husband.

Talk to you soon!

TTFT- Ta-ta for now...

Hello World,

I'm losing steam. I think that means it's time I sign off for a short "blogcation" until things slow down for me in the non-virtual world. Those on Facebook can still catch up with me there, but, I'm going to peace out of the blog until I have some time to get my thoughts together. Don't worry, all is well, I am just very, very busy. My life is filled to the brim in every area possible.

Check back soon. I won't be gone long!

More than just a peek

As you can see, my blog has been overhauled and recieved a face-lift. I have changed the names of some of my topics and am in the process of working on new topics. Stay tuned all week to see the new additions to I Spy: The Adventures of Aaron & Jessi.

Wednesday, Oui? On Blogging and Ouis

I have some new readers!!!! About 7 to be exact! I never imagined, when I began blogging, that people would be so interested in what I have to say. I have people from work who read, people from college (both undergrad and graduate), high school, I have old friends, new friends, family members, frenemies and complete strangers. I get comments via text, Facebook, in person and on my actual blog (where I usually prefer people read from-- because it is a nicer view of the blog.)

I had originally started this blog as a scrapbook of my life (a random sampling of what I wanted to share publicly) for myself and Aaron. Never did I imagine I would grow to love blogging, or find it so therapeutic. What's great about it is that I enables me to keep track of memories, forces me (in an encouraging way) to document things, and helps me to communicate with others about myself. Those who interact with me on a day to day basis know that I am pretty "closed." For instance, you and I could have a conversation and you might walk away still knowing absolutely nothing about me. I do that. I don't know why. Since I've starting blogging, I've been able to let go- a very, very, tiny, little bit to some of my "reservedness." And what do you know? It has improved some of my interpersonal relationships. Huh!

I started "Wednesday, Oui?" posts almost the same time I began blogging. It is my favorite post to write, it is my favorite day of the week, and EVERYONE who reads looks forward to my "Oui." The purpose of my Oui is to post about something that makes me laugh, smile, something warm and fuzzy, or something nice about my/our life.

A little history on the "Oui:"

Many have asked the significance of the "Oui." Well, in case you didn't know, however I am sure you do- but that's assuming, so, I will pretend that you don't, "Oui" is French for "yes." Although English is my first (only) language, I often end a sentence with "Yes?" -even if it's not a question. Why you ask? I couldn't tell you. It's just one of my many malfunctions. Wednesdays have a very significant meaning for Aaron and me, one which I will not elaborate here because it is our secret. But part of it was that for a long time, due to our grueling schedules, it was the only day we could see each other. Anyway, one day, while feeling particularly clever, I said to Aaron "it's Wednesday, Oui?" He replied, " Oui!!" And so it began. I know it is a bit of an anti-climatic definition, but like I said that's about all of the true meaning of Oui that I'm prepared to discuss.

I try never to post about the bad (I'm not going to air my dirty laundry in public- that's what my journal is for) and I'm certainly not going to post about all of the good. I don't have time to, I don't want to, and y'all really don't care to hear about every good detail in my life, every trip we take, every hike we go on, every success, every small smile. "I'm just not gonna do it"

So there you have it. That is the story behind the Oui and why I love to blog. To my readers, both new and old, thank you for reading; it supports me in my writing and forces me (again, in an encouraging way) to write. Although I blog for me (and Aaron) it's nice to know others take time out of their day to follow the Adventures of Aaron & Jessi :)

My Blog Mission Statement

So clearly, I'm back. I had a terrible case of writers block. I was beginning to feel as though I had to write, not wanted to write. That is not the purpose of this blog, so I decided to take a little break.

I have always found it therapeutic to put things down on paper, not only to record history, but I am going to want to look back on these times and remember who I was, what I found interesting, where I came from (and on and on and on.) I love to write and most times I can easily translate my thoughts to paper (or keyboard in this case.) I love to read and I love to write. It's just that easy for me.

Quickly, about my blog. This blog is my online diary, per se. It's my thoughts and feelings, it's where I am currently in my state of mind. I don't intend for people to take it personally or seriously. These words belong to me. This is my lifestyle, and, in no way shape or form do I acknowledge it to be "the way to live life." I celebrate differences; I'm fascinated by differences. I'm a therapist. I see what conformity does to people. Do I think my lifestyle is the best? Absolutely. The best for you? Nope.

Another reason why I write: I helps me process things in my head and remember special times, no matter how insignificant, and it's something very personal between Aaron and I. Often I will write about something he and I experienced together which, in my writings, I sum up or leave out specific details. When we read, there are enough details so it jogs our memory and we can go back to that time and remember the exact details, some too precious to throw out as fodder to the rest of the world. My blogging is something that Aaron appreciates, and he reads, every day. When I say I blog for me, that's a lie. I also blog for my partner.

Just wanted to throw that out there for my new readers, as it appears that I have several. Welcome aboard and hang on tight.

See Ya!

I am going on a blogging break for a while. I have had a lack of material lately, so I am going to live some life and make some memories. I'll get back to you. To my readers/friends keep checking back. I'll miss ya!

It's nice to feel wanted

So people, people, people, I can't tell you how many emails, texts, person-to-person and facebook messages I've received asking me to blog again. One person even said to me today (I didn't know this person was a regular reader) "You haven't blogged in forever and you didn't tell us you were going on a blog-vacation..." OMG! I love this. We really do pour our heart and soul into this blog and it's so nice to know that so many people really are reading and looking forward to new postings.

I want to assure everyone that we are going to be back up and running before you can say Lima-beans (thank you Punky Brewster for use of your phrase) Also, do not fear, there isn't any reason that we have had a lack of bloggage- life has just happened lately and we have been so very, very busy wrapping up from the holidays, school back in session, and me getting acquainted with my new promotion-- lest we also forget the New Year's resolutions.

It's so nice to know that people love us, are checking on us, or just plain curious.
My to-do list this weekend is to post some blog-stories... stay tuned, you will not be disappointed!

MUAH
Jessi & Aaron

THE LAST FIG LEAF according to Dr. Suess

I start every night of my groups with a quote. I use one of my favorites as often as possible and I think it's the most appropriate way to start this post:

Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.
- Dr. Seuss

My blog is now public and I'm scared to death.

Jackpot!

I'm a busy-bee... I have about 4 posts planned for today (including this one) so stay tuned!

Happy Blogiversary! Reader Challenge

I have officially been in the Blogosphere for one year!

Here are some interesting facts about The Adventures of Aaron & Jessi:

• I started this blog to keep track of the trips/hikes and fun things we do, and to document my bone marrow harvesting.
• I had a lot of trouble deciding on a title of this blog, as it was very difficult to sum up our lives in a few words or a catch phrase. I chose 'The Adventures of Aaron and Jessi' because it seemed as though it was continual and ongoing; 'The Adventures.' The Internet address is a little different. In that I incorporated one of our favorite games "I Spy," - "I spy with my little eye..."
• I used to only read my sister's blog and one other, now I read 14 blogs regularly, only one of which is written by a person whom I have never met.
• There have been 208 posted blogs and there are 8 drafts waiting to be posted.
• I read, and reread my postings after I have used spell check to ensure quality.
• I get an adrenalin rush when I have a new comment, but I primarily write this blog thinking of how Aaron is going to view it, how his experience may have differed from my own. Seldom do I think of the reader, unless I have been particularly funny or clever.
• I almost always blog in the morning, before work and while I am drinking coffee.
• Aaron reads our blog about 3-4 times per week, on average.
• Aaron has posted 4 entries.
• I have contemplated starting a wedding planning blog, but I know Aaron would peek at it and see my dress and other tid-bits he should not see.
• I blog at least 2 times per week, sometimes more, and rarely miss a Wednesday, Oui.
• I have about 39 Oui postings, and my first Oui was about my nephew.
• I really enjoy posting conversations between Aaron and myself.
• I ponder every day whether or not to open my blog up publicly, then I look back and see some of the intimacies I share, and stories about my love of the sauce and I shudder. I think if it were public, I would begin to write for the reader and no longer for Aaron and I.
• I have approximately 40 invited readers.
• About 7 people comment on the blog, 8 comment via email, and the rest are creepers, lurking around.
• My favorite post was probably my Dear Aaron letter.

My questions for you:

1. What is your favorite post?
2. What do you think about me opening up my blog, publicly?

For my "emailers," please try to post in the comments as it will stimulate conversation.

Congratulations to us for our first year as bloggers!!!

This is your brain on Blog

Just wanted to write down a quick post to share a funny story.
Aaron makes me breakfast, every morning.
This morning he said, "would you like sausage, mushroom, and onion blogs?"
He meant omelets.

Happy New Year everyone! Or, Bonne Annee as the French would say.

Where I blog and my lists

I am working from home today. I love that my job gives me flexibility and allows me such luxuries. Usually, I will drive to Manchester on Friday's for a few hours to do some paperwork, but this Friday I had most things done so here I am. I have to send a few emails to collateral contacts and do some research, but other than that I am here, puttering away.

I have a pretty long to do list:

1. Update blog
2. Send work e-mails
3. Research group appropriate media resources
4. Organize my group binder
5. Go to Jo-Ann Fabric to get the supplies for my Christmas projects
6. Go to EMS- I am in the market for some new hiking shoes and a fleece
7. Start one Christmas project- I want this particular one done before Thanksgiving
8. Bake my Amish friendship bread
9. Laundry

My to do list for this weekend (to be completed before Monday)

1. Make a Christmas list for friends and family (I am taking Monday off to go see my Pepe- I do this every year on the same day. My sister and mom will meet me there and we go shopping.)
2. Complete the Christmas project
3. Bake some pumpkin bread to bring to my Pepe
4. Make cupcakes for the Thanksgiving Dinner being held at my work for the youth in need
5. Grocery shopping
6. Hound my brother about sending the pictures from the TSO concert we went to last weekend so I can blog about that... it was amazing. Wally? You-whooo? Where are the photos? Don't make me call you on the phone...

Other Misc plans for the weekend:

1. Saturday- Aaron's cross-race in Durham
2. Sunday- Hike Mt. Monadnock and while in Keene visit with our friend Derek
3. Monday- Portland to see Pepe
4. Find a way to incorporate all my lists in between these events

On a side note, I read several blogs daily. Most are my friends and family, a couple are strangers who I have come across while blogging. When ever I read their blogs, I always have to wonder where they are when they blog. I almost always blog in the same place. I think twice I have blogged elsewhere, shamefully once at work. However, I am a curious person, and I am details oriented; am I the only odd-ball that blogs everyday from the same exact place in the world?

I almost always blog in the moring, my favorite time of day. And always, always, always from the kitchen table while having coffee/breakfast.

I think the reason I choose the table is because

1. I can see the birdfeeder from where I sit (and as you can see Rocko notices it too)
2. I can hear my windchimes from this seat
3. Animals can't sit on my lap while I am at the table... if we were on the couch, well, that would be a different story
4. I love the kitchen

Me? Blog? Are you kidding?

So, I am just starting to get the point of this blogging business. I have several friends who have blogger accounts, blog daily, and shamefully I read daily. However, I have never thought that I had what it took to blog. "What would I write about?", "Who would even want to read?", "What do I have that is even worth writing about?" Well truth is, a lot. And you're reading aren't you? I guess in all actuality, I will blog for me, for the things I do, and for the things I am thankful for so that I may always remember.