He Said, She Said: Guide to Relationships

GOOGLE did what?!?

2007-04-15T16:00:00.000-06:00

He Said She Said, SHE SAID:

The Internet beast known as Google just gobbled up DoubleClick for a tiny sum of $3.1 billion. Chump change for the folks at Google.

My sources inside Googleplex Headquarters tell me this is part of a much larger foray into the online display advertising space. The deal came together pretty quickly, partly as a response to news that Microsoft was in talks to acquire DoubleClick. After a week of intense bidding, the boys at Google won out.

It certainly doesn't hurt that Google and Doubleclick both have office space in the same New York City building. This deal very likely began when a Googler sniffed out a Microsoft suit in the elevator blabbing about their acquisition strategy for DoubleClick. A quick call back to the Google home base in Moutain View, CA and a bidding war with Microsoft had begun.

Sometimes it really does happen just like in the movies. True story.

Bye bye Superman? Breaking News on SMALLVILLE

2007-04-14T09:23:00.000-06:00

He Said She Said, HE SAID:

So what's this I hear about them killing off a major character on SMALLVILLE? It's true according to the witch of gossip over at E! Online.

Sources inside The CW reveal that one of 4 main castmembers - Tom Welling, Michael Rosenbaum, Allison Mack or Kristin Kreuk - will be killed off in a secret plot twist by season's end. Who do you think it will be? I don't even watch this show and my money is on Chloe. No way they kill off Superman or Lex Luthor.

For those keeping score at home, YES I guess this makes me a TV dork. My secret it out.

another wasted night of LOST

2007-04-05T09:10:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry - I've been a huge LOST fan ever since the first episode but even I'm beginning to lose my patience with this show. There needs to be more forward motion in terms of plot development. The flashback device is losing its luster. Seriously, what did last night's Kate flashback really reveal? That her Mom turned her in because she committed murder?!? No kiddin' sherlock. Kate, my advice would've been to phone ahead. You could've saved us the (unnecessary) drama and exposition.

Producers, please, I'm begging you. DO SOMETHING. ANYTHING. And do it quick. Because your beloved TV show aint the ratings darling it used to be. And in case you need some story suggestions, how 'bout explaining that igloo/Arctic scene from last season's cliffhanger and telling me where Rose has disappeared to. SERIOUSLY. I want some answers and I'm getting tired of waiting. And it's not the wait that's killing me. It's how tedious the entire LOST ride has gotten.

You've been warned.

It was a bad year for Russell Crowe - and it shows

2007-03-24T10:38:00.000-06:00

So last night there I was standing in Blockbuster trying to pick out a movie for the weekend when Girlfriend called with a special request. She wanted to see the Russell Crowe flick, A Good Year.

Reading the back of the DVD box, I remembered why I was in no hurry to see it in theaters. Because it looked like a BAD MOVIE. Nevertheless, we rented it and watch the movie last night. Now that I have a good night's rest behind me, I can say with even greater confidence that A Good Year was a bad movie. Not just bad, but "THIS MOVIE SUCKED" kind of bad. Rent it yourself good readers and tell me yourself. On second thought, save yourself 2 hours and take my word for it.

All this movie really wanted to be was the guy's version of Under the Tuscan Sun. Had the film succeeded, I'm not even sure if that would be a good thing. Wasn't one flirty romantic comedy about Italy enough? Besides, Russell Crowe is nowhere near as hot as Diane Lane.

Russell Crowe is not very sympathetic in this movie and treats most other characters as discarded bottles of wine. Until of course he finds happiness in the vineyards of Italy. As my sister used to say when we were kids, GAG ME WITH A SPOON. Seriously, Russell, what were you thinking? Aside from the big paycheck I mean.

So dear readers, if you find yourself desperate for a movie and the only thing left to rent in Blockbuster or on Netflix is The Muppets Take Manhatten, do yourself a favor and rent the one with the dancing muppets. It's never a contest when Miss Piggy is on screen. I'm sorry Russell, but it's true for this 'Not Very Good Year.'

Even in the best of moods, I only give this movie a C-. Save your money.

And on last night's episode of '24'...

2007-03-20T13:29:00.000-06:00

The Jack Bauer Power Hour rages on Fox.

But I have just one tiny gripe. Mainly, what the hell happened to ex President Logan? Last week's episode of 24 ended with Logan flatlining and the former First Lady in handcuffs. But there wasn't even one mention of them in last night's episode. HELLO?!?! Is the evil-but-now-reborn Logan dead? And was Martha able to sneak in a quick kiss with former Secret Service superhero Aaron Pierce before getting hauled off to prison?

C'mon writers, you can't just leave us hanging. It was another great hour of television last night, but you have some loose ends to clear up. Plug those plot holes and tell us what's going on!

Roll out the red carpet...

2007-02-23T09:25:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:
It's time for the annual Hollywood American Idol - and I don't mean that little TV show on Fox. Nope, we're talking about the 79th Annual Academy Awards.

The red carpet rolls out in Hollywood Sunday night. So stop wasting time and fill out your Oscar ballots. Here's what you'll find on the He Said She Said ballot:

Best Picture: Letters from Iwo Jima
Best Actress: Kate Winslett for her role in Little Children
Best Actor: Leonard DiCaprio for his role in Blood Diamond

GIRLFRIEND and I are still arguing over our other choices, so we'll wait to post until we've reached consensus. What will be on YOUR Oscar ballots?

Speaking Baby Talk

2007-02-22T08:14:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I was introduced to a whole new language this past week while visiting with my sister and new baby nephew. A few of my favorite new catchphrases include:

Boob Juice = breast milk
Liquid Gold = more breast milk (aka Boob Juice)
Oogie Aga = still trying to decipher this one
Poop = just as I remember it

Saying Uncle

2007-02-19T15:43:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I'm still getting use to this whole Uncle thing. My sister gave birth to a baby boy a few months ago and it has taken me 3-4 months just to get used to the idea. It would help if my sister lived closer but she is several states away and I've only met my nephew a couple times. That all changed this weekend.

This weekend was my first real chance to hang out with the little fella, all 15 pounds of him. I still have to fight off my parents and visiting relatives whenever I hold the baby, but I was able to sneak away a few times to get some Uncle/Nephew alone time. Of course that didn't last long because you can only disappear with a baby for so long before someone notices. Nevertheless, it was a great time. I can't wait to spoil the little bugger.

I'm hesitant to say my nephew is the cutest baby ever because I always get so annoyed whenever anyone says it... but it's true. My new baby nephew IS the cutest baby you've never met. So you might as well get used to the idea.

The Shining - recut and remastered

2007-02-18T12:13:00.000-06:00

Remember that Stanley Kubrick thriller The Shining starring everyone's favorite Jack? The one that scared the living crap out of you? Those who don't like scary movies are smart enough to steer clear of this movie.

If only the movie studio had marketed it as a romantic comedy. Then perhaps they could have captured the wallets and dollars of unsuspecting moviegoers. Take a look at the re-cut trailer below for a look at what could have been.

The Shining - starring Jack Nicholson

Video: The Shining Trailer Recut

Justin Timberlake on SNL tonight

2007-02-17T11:54:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
For those of you who missed it the first time on Saturday Night Live, NBC is airing the Justin Timberlake episode again tonight. Included will be the instant video gem and viral sensation Dick in a Box. See it here now.

Dick in a Box (uncensored) - video clip

Freeeeeeeezin'

2007-02-15T10:13:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
so this is my 4th winter in Chicago and I am beginning to think I was insane for moving here from cali! something about -30 wind chill is ridiculous... the countdown for springtime begins... only 3 more months :) they say you can't complain about both seasons in chicago, so i am looking forward to the hot humid summer in july! BRING IT ON!

snowy Chicago and tired puggles

2007-02-14T15:24:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
The snow just won’t stop falling. Gotta love Chicago winters.

It seems like it has snowed almost a foot in the last 2 days, but I’m sure it’s less. The dogs sure enjoy romping around in it though. Lucky for us the snow hit just hours after we returned from a short vacation in sunny California.

We put the dogs up in a kennel. We like to call it “Doggie Camp” because they spend the entire time running around and playing with other dogs. At night, the dogs sleep slumber party style on top of each other. And then it’s right back to running around and playing in the morning.

Usually when we pick up the dogs, they literally pass out in our arms while we’re still in the car driving home. All that time playing (and with little sleep) makes for a tired puppy.

This was only the 2nd time our youngest puggle has ever stayed at the kennel and she wasn’t quite sure how to react when we arrived to take them home. Por puggle cried all the way home in the car.

I wonder if she was disappointed that we hadn’t gone away for good. Either that or she really had to pee.

The latest viral sensation - SLOTHS!

2007-02-13T14:19:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
Who woulda thunk it? Saturday Night Live can be funny again. For those of you who missed it, here is the latest viral sensation from The Not Ready for Primetime Players in NYC.

Courtesy of SNL, I give you "Sloths!"

He Said, She Said Guide to Relationships

OMG... Seriously

2007-02-04T21:45:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID: So I have been counting down the days, the hours to the big game between the Bears & the Colts. 21 years since the bears have made it to the big game... SURELY it is their time to win. But, nooooooo...

Instead Grossman decides to serve as the MVP... for the COLTS!!! Seriously, can you please learn how to throw the ball???!?!?

We just got home from a superbowl party and I am so glad I don't have to hear the louda** colts fan beside me talking anymore shi*. FYI - I already know Grossman sucks, I don't need you to fill me in on that secret. This was truly the Bears game... despite the spread they should have won. 92 yard touchdown on the initial kick0ff of the game?!?! that is history! but unfortunately so was the rest...

He Said She Said Guide... to Super Bowl XLI

2007-02-03T11:46:00.000-06:00

Super Bowl weekend has finally arrived. Got big plans for Sunday? We want to hear about your favorite Super Bowl moments leading up to and during the game.

If you find yourself at a party, remember the He Said, She Said rules of game etiquette.

How YOU Can Liven up the Party as a Guest:
* Find out what team the host is rooting for and wear the opposing team's jersey
* Bring no beer, chips or food - but be sure to take any leftovers home with you
* Ask everyone to "shhhh" when the NFL Refs are introduced
* Encourage voting to determine best and worst looking cheerleader
* Turn off the TV during commercials

Get your Wi-Fi on in Chicago

2007-02-01T14:12:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
Gone are the days of “borrowing” your neighbor’s wireless connection. A new website has made it easy to find free Wi-Fi in Chicago.

For a complete list of Chicago stores and restaurants offering free Wi-Fi internet access, check out the Wi-Fi-FreeSpot Directory. It is constantly updated and are very thorough. We use it religiously to find internet hot spots around town. Check it out.

Living in a Wi-Fi society

2007-01-31T14:44:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:

We live in a democratic society, so I say free Wi-Fi internet access for everyone. If Microsoft is willing to pay for free Wi-Fi in Portland, Oregon then why not Chicago? Even Google is getting into the act and paying for Wi-Fi in San Francisco. Read about Microsoft’s heroics here and Google’s efforts here.

Screw the spread

2007-01-28T10:57:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
Screw the odds. I don't care if the Colts are favored by 7, we all know the Bears will win Super Bowl XLI.

I'm worried Rex Grossman won't be able to hold his own against the Indy defense. He came through in the last quarter of the NFC Championship against the Saints, but the sunshine in Miami might throw his game off. But what really pisses me off is that I'm going to be in Miami... the day AFTER the Super Bowl.

I grew up in Kentucky and my true passion is the Louisville Cardinals. But Louisville doesn't have an NFL team and I've loved the Chicago Bears since I was a little girl. My BOYFRIEND gives me crap and says I'm a bandwagon fan, but I owned my Dick Butkus jersey before I even moved to Chicago. Honestly, I think he's just bitter because the St. Louis RAMS didn't even make the playoffs.

BEAR down!

Oscar nominations are out

2007-01-23T09:04:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
After months of hype, the Oscar nominations are out. Find out if your favorite movie or actor was nominated here. Catch the 79th Academy Awards live February 25, 2007 on ABC.

Monday's have become television heaven

2007-01-22T18:19:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I flipped through my TiVo last night and was struck by how Monday’s have now become the new “Must See TV” – at least in my household. Thankfully, GIRLFRIEND and I have similar tastes and so we don’t argue (much) over the remote control. The Monday TV lineup in the He Said She Said household includes:

i'll be up til 3am watching all my shows
1) 24
2) How I Met Your Mother
3) Heroes
4) Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
5) Daily Show
6) Prison Break
7) What About Brian
8) Battlestar Galactica (didn't get a chance to watch it last night)

Why must the network suits schedule so many great TV shows on the same night? We’ll be up until the wee hours of the morning watching it all.

BEAR Down for Super Bowl XLI

2007-01-22T09:55:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
The Chicago Bears were victorious over the New Orleans Saints in today's NFC Championship Game. Final score: Good Guys 39, Saints 14.

And so the march to the Super Bowl begins. Their opponent in the Super Bowl will be the Indianapolis Colts. Frankly, I'm relieved the Bears will be facing the Colts instead of the New England Patriots.

Had the Patriots won, everyone would be talking about their previous Super Bowl match up in 1985 when the Chicago Bears defeated the Pats 46-10 in Super Bowl XX. I could care less. Get over it New England. You lost in '85 and you lost last night.

So I'm a little bitter about the Patriots. Is it that obvious? To put it simply, there isn't a team I despise more than the New England Patriots. I'm originally from St. Louis and I still haven't gotten over the St. Louis RAMS loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVI. The Rams lost that game on a New England field goal as time expired.

I was so devastated I called in sick to work for a week. Five years later and it still stings.

Time to BEAR down Chicago. The only team left standing is the Colts.

HE SAID SHE SAID Super Bowl XXLI prediction:
Chicago Bears 24, Indianapolis Colts 21

Who do YOU think will win?

Chicago Bears moment of truth

2007-01-20T16:05:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
With less than 24 hours to go before kickoff, there are a number of questions on the minds of Chicago Bears fans.

1) Do the Bears have enough left in the tank to beat the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship game?

2) Which Rex Grossman will show up for the game? The Rex from the first 4 weeks of the season, or Scary Rex from the last half of the season?

3) How much will it snow?

Here's the official HE SAID, SHE SAID prediction: Bears 24, Saints 17

Who do YOU think is going to win?

Netflix vs. Blockbuster

2007-01-16T13:03:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
Today Netflix announced they would be offering movie downloads for free online. Read about it here. That’s a nice little differentiator from the beast named Blockbuster. Nevertheless, I must admit I prefer Blockbuster. And this is coming from one of the earliest Netflix adopters and fanatics.

Over time Blockbuster has developed an identical program and today offers a superior product. They have found a way to leverage empty Blockbuster stores sandwiched between McDonald’s restaurants lining American street corners. Drop the DVD off at a store and walk out with a new movie. By the time you get home, Blockbuster has shipped the next movie in your queue. My math may be a bit fuzzy, but that adds up to double the DVDs in my book. Hands down the best advantage Blockbuster has over Netflix.

Having wasted far too many of my young years in the advertising industry, it seems all I ever remember are the terrible ads. I can’t help but cheer whenever a great one enters the mix. And that’s exactly what Blockbuster has. A fantastic TV advertising campaign centered around a great message.

Ride the wave and rent some DVDs. The rest of the world is catching on.

Daaaaa Bears!

2007-01-15T12:30:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID: OMG what an awesome game yesterday; I can't believe I was actually at a bears playoff game. We left in the early AM to maximize the time spent outside in the cold weather and tailgate in the south lot. SO much fun! Burgers, brats and bears... what more could you want?? Inside the stadium I was ecstatic as the bears ran in a 68 yard touchdown. However the rest of the game made me a bit nervous. Too many turnovers, sloppy throws and way too many SeaHawks touchdowns! In the end they won, but they need to get their real game face on for the Saints game next weekend. The Bears have a real shot at the superbowl.... I can't wait until the next game!

BEAR DOWN!!

Da Bears fans

2007-01-14T19:14:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
Always classy those Chicago Bears fans.

GIRLFRIEND and I spent the day at Soldier Field watching the Bears defeat the Seattle Seahawks to advance to the NFC Championship game. Two most memorable moments while I froze my little toochas off in the cold.

1) Rex Grossman finally completing a big pass to set up the winning field goal in OT.

2) Mr. RANDOM DRUNK GUY pissing in the sink right next to me as I was washing my hands in the bathroom.

I guess you can change the stadium, but not the Bears fan. Gotta love Chicago. Go Bears!

New Year, New Blogs

2007-01-11T12:08:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:

It’s the start of a new year and instead of making some silly pledge to hit the gym more often (NOT SO likely at the moment), I promise to write more. Because most faithful readers would agree they’re less interested in what HE has to say and more curious to this female perspective. Can we all at least agree on that?

Faithfully yours,
SHE (aka “Girlfriend”)

Sage, not taupe

2006-12-28T10:17:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:

So after all of HIS stress over the painting scenario, we ended up simply hanging curtains and light fixtures while my parents were in town. However today, we painted the bedroom sage. Now i must say that HE is DEFINITELY not a fan of painting and/or decorating, but today he took one for the team. I handled the trim & ceiling while he took control of the roller. 5 hours later we have a beautiful romantic room with a nice green tint.

Painted paw prints

2006-12-27T23:16:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I arrived home after an afternoon at the bars watching football to find GIRLFRIEND standing over 2 buckets of paint and the dogs chasing each other round and round a ladder. Without speaking a word, I was handed a brush and given instructions.

Since it was so much fun the first time, GIRLFRIEND found us some more walls to paint. I'm still not sure what to make of the odd green color, but I trust GIRLFRIEND's sense of style. And so we began painting (again).

The walls weren't the only thing to be covered in paint. The dogs eventually found their way into the paint and left paw prints trailing throughout the apartment. I have to admit, it was cute... until we had to clean it up. Then definitely not so cute.

Choking on paint fumes

2006-12-13T18:41:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
The paint arrived along with GIRLFRIEND and her parents. No pink, yellow or depressing dark color. But no blue either. Instead we’re going with taupe. I’m not even sure what color Taupe is supposed to be. (I must have missed that day in art class). If I had to describe it to friends I’d say it was greenish gray. Could be worse, I suppose. I’m just not sure how it’ll look on our bedroom walls.

I’m anxious to get this whole painting adventure over and done with. You stick 4 people in a cramped room hopped up on paint fumes with 2 dogs barking in the other room and chances are a fight will break out. Here’s hoping I come out on top.

Hand me a paint brush

2006-12-11T11:46:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

Today we’re painting. And GIRLFRIEND has assigned each of us a specific task. Her Mom and I are in charge of touching up the fringes. Personally, I was hoping to handle the paint roller but that gig went to her Dad. They left me with the dogs and went to the hardware store to pick out a paint color. I’m not real picky and have no preference when it comes to the color. As long as it isn’t pink, yellow or some depressing dark color. Blue would be nice. That’s what I told GIRLFRIEND. My guess is she’ll come back with something other than blue.

dinner gone wrong

2006-12-10T01:27:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

At dinner GIRLFRIEND announced plans to redecorate our condo. It sounded like a decent idea – for some far and distant time in the future. I certainly wasn’t expecting manual labor to be a part of the weekend’s activities. But before our salads had even arrived, GIRLFRIEND had the entire thing planned out. Her parents aren’t in town just to visit – they’re being put to work. And even I’ve been given a task. I went to bed last night hoping SHE would forget the whole thing by morning. I was wrong.

early Saturday morning with the dogs

2006-12-09T09:43:00.000-06:00

I woke early this morning to the sound of our youngest puppy whimpering. I turned to my right and squinted at the clock. 6:00am. I must have groaned out loud because my older dog (who at 3 years has the smarts to sleep in on a Saturday), lifted his head in agreement and repeated the gesture, which only encouraged the puppy to whine louder.

“I’m up, I’m up” I announced to no one in particular as I let the puppy out of her cage. Like Dash out of The Incredibles, she shot out of her cage and did 3 fast laps around the condo. She was wired and ready to play. I just wanted to lie down.

Yawning, I gave her some water, which she quickly lapped up. Way too much water way too fast. I knew from experience that I had about a 180 second window to get her downstairs and outside before her bladder blew. I threw on some shoes, a hat and grabbed a coat. I didn’t realize until I was standing outside in the freezing cold that I had mistakenly grabbed my girlfriend’s coat.

Standing outside with the dogs, shivering in my PJs and girlfriend’s coat, I realized that the condo was empty when I left. There was no sign of GIRLFRIEND or her parents. Back inside, I found a note. They woke up early for a family fun shopping expedition out in the suburbs. Their destination: IKEA and JC Penney. I was pretty sure the stores didn’t open at 6am. But they were no where to be found.

And so I did what any man would do in such a situation. I went back to bed.

The thing I love best about GIRLFRIEND is that she’s smart enough to leave me behind. Shopping with the in-laws at IKEA at 6am on a Saturday really aint my thing. Not when I can be sleeping.

Crowded house

2006-12-08T20:16:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

This weekend GIRLFRIEND’s parents in town visiting. They’re staying both nights with us at our place, so alone time and personal space will be limited. Nevertheless, I’ll try my best to sneak in a few blogs if possible.

An American Girl Haunting

2006-12-07T10:40:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

I have a confession to make. I am terrified of American Girl Place. I'm not proud of this, but admitting my fear is the first step towards recovery. For all my remaining years, I will never set foot inside another American Girl Place. I am convinced it's an evil place to brainwash young girls and their Moms.

My story begins over the summer. I went to meet GIRLFRIEND and some of her family friends who were visiting in town. Among them was a 7 year old girl I'll refer to as "BratGirl." BratGirl is the very definition of your typical American spoiled, obnoxious, whiny little girl.

No matter what you bought her, BratGirl always wanted more. She would pout and whine in high-pitched voice I'm convinced only dogs and myself could hear. Worse still, BratGirl always seemed to get what she wanted. There'd be moments when I could take no more and wished a runaway stroller would fling itself at her... and she'd be promptly rewarded with an ice cream. It seemed the louder she whined, the more she was rewarded. I blame BratGirl for my introduction to American Girl.

I was supposed to meet GIRLFRIEND, her friends and the visiting BratGirl there on a random Sunday morning. I walked the short distance and stood outside the entrance glancing up at the big sign. It wasn't far from my work and just down the street from the Chicago El stop. But I had never noticed this store before. I must have walked by it every day on my way to work. "Strange," I thought as I stood outside stuck in my head. The doors spilled open and dozens of Daughters and Moms knocked me aside. That should have been a sign to stay away.

The front entrance was huge and the walls were lined with customized dolls of every ethnicity and every era (Wild Wild West doll, Geisha doll, Hippie 60s doll, caveman doll, etc.) lining the walls. I scanned the crowd and realized GIRLFRIEND wasn't here. Damn. I had to go deeper inside this strange place.

So I took the elevator upstairs. Apparently, one floor can't hold all the dolls in the world. As my eyes adjusted, I noticed that many Daughters in the store were dressed exactly as their Moms. That would be odd under normal circumstances, but what sent a shiver down my spine was that each girl carried a doll... dressed in identical clothes. In some instances, you had Moms, Daughters and Dolls all dressed alike. I kid you not. And best (or worst) of all, there was a sit-down bar where you could take hair braiding lessons. There I found Daughters braiding their dolls hair while their Moms stood behind braiding their daughter's hair.

I stood there for a long while mesmerized by this Americanized craziness. Once I came to my senses, I fled. Goodbye BratGirl. Here's hoping you never visit us again.

He Said She Said: No more American Girl ads

2006-12-05T18:27:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

Please Google, I'm begging you. Stop serving up American Girl ads on this blog. I have a strict ban on that store and anything to do with it. Frankly, it scares me. There's a story there and I'll find the courage to write it. But I will forever move to the other side of the street whenever I come across an American Girl store. Beware.

Watch out for that Hard Candy

2006-12-04T20:37:00.000-06:00

WOW. Just finished watching one of the most riveting, disturbing movies I’ve seen in a long while. It’s called Hard Candy. It’s an indie flick that came out earlier this year, generated some buzz and was recently released on video. The movie is a sick revenge flick that should scare most men never to talk to 14 year old girls again. They should show this in prison. Go rent it at your local Blockbuster. Or not.

He Said, She Said: Picking up the writing pen

2006-12-03T10:17:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

It's been way too long since our last He Said She Said post. That will soon change.

Life has been very busy as of late and it's stolen much of my writing time. Recent events that have occupied my time include my 10 year high school reunion, a new family member, puppy school, religion class and introducing both sets of parents.

Plenty of material to keep you entertained through the winter. More to come.

He Said, She Said: Career and Marriage controversy

2006-08-28T11:09:00.000-06:00

He Said:
There’s been a huge uproar recently due to the recent Forbes article about careers and marriage. Basically, it’s a warning to men (written by a man, of course) not to marry a career-driven woman. Unless you want your marriage to end in a messy divorce. It didn’t take long before a rebuttal (written by a woman, of course) was written. There are obviously strong viewpoints on either side, so let’s open it up for discussion. What do YOU think?

He Said, She Said: iPod's link to terrorism

2006-08-10T20:24:00.000-06:00

He Said:

Today we learned of a terror plot to blow up planes traveling from England to the US. Just when you think it’s safe to fly again, they strike again. It sounds like the tagline to a new movie, but it’s about as real and scary as it can get. I’ve followed developments on TV and online all day – and there’s a part of this story I think everyone is overlooking. And that is the role of everyone’s favorite portable MP3 player (yes, I’m talking about the iPod) in today’s events.

When news first broke this morning, it was widely reported that the detonator to be used by terrorists was Apple’s popular iPod device. As I saw the iPod referenced in news stories on MSN, USA Today, CNN and across the bottom ticker on MSNBC, I couldn't help but wonder how this would impact Apple's beloved brand. Even though the plot was thwarted, I doubt very much the suits at Apple wanted their product linked to such a downer of a story.

Apparently, I wasn't the only one thinking that. Apple acted quickly and efficiently (and probably called in a few favors), as references to the iPod were removed from all articles found online just a few hours later. Instead of mentioning the iPod by name, the alleged detonator was instead referred to as an "MP3 portable device." How vanilla can you get? I mean, when was the last time you ever used those words to describe your music player? As any marketer can tell you, Apple dominates the portable music player category. Everyone who listens to music on the go has an iPod. If it's not branded Apple, then chances are it's an iPodwannabe. They created this category, and it's no coincidence that even the competitors in this space model their "MP3 players" after the iPod.

So what's the story here? There probably isn't one... other than that Apple took immediate action to protect their brand identity before the iPod became synonymous with terrorism. And judging by the evening news, it seems they succeeded.

He Said, She Said: Don't ever cross a girl in advertising...

2006-07-31T13:05:00.000-06:00

Men have heard this adage for many years: Beware a woman scorned. Especially when she works in advertising.

This billboard serves as a reminder for all us guys in the world why it’s never smart to piss your woman off. One guy in Chicago recently did, and he’s paying the consequences for it in the public arena. For all you living in Chicago, stop on by the corner of LaSalle and Ontario to see for yourself. Ouch!

He Said, She Said: Celebrating Girlfriend's Birthday

2006-07-30T13:33:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said, HE SAID:

Last night we partied with thirty of our closest friends as SHE waved goodbye to her mid-20s and celebrated another Chicago birthday. The destination was Suite Lounge. A small plush lounge in the belly of Old Town. Mid priced drinks, decent scenery and the city’s social elite gather each Friday and Saturday in this underground bar to drink away the week’s worries. The occasion on this evening was to tip a glass in honor of my better half.

Based on her alcohol intake, I think it’s safe to say the night was a success. Luckily, we didn’t have far to wander home. Half a day later and SHE still is sleeping off the effects. I doubt she remembers the puggles standing over her as SHE lay on the floor licking her face. But I’ll be sure to fill her in once she wakes.

Superman Returns cursed by a bad marketing campaign

2006-07-09T23:50:00.000-06:00

So by now most it should be obvious to all Warner Bros. executives that Superman Returns was a financial disappointment. Including international grosses, there's a strong chance the film may not break even. Which is a shame because this could have been THE summer blockbuster. Instead, Disney executives are celebrating the wild success of Pirates of the Caribbean. Which begs the question, how could the world’s most recognized superhero icon fail to soar? The answer, my friends, is marketing.

Having worked in the advertising business for 10 years, I argue that the marketing campaign for Superman Returns was an utter failure and was a huge influence in regards to box office performance. At best, the messaging was unfocused and lacking in opportunity. Every day it seemed the TV ads would shift strategy. Here’s my friendly advice to the movie marketing folks sitting out in Hollywood. First, be thankful you still have a job. Second, remember next time that you can’t be everything to everyone.

Weeks before the movie opened, the film was being marketing as a balls out action movie for boys. Then suddenly I was seeing ads positioning it as a romantic movie for teenage girls. Oh wait! Now it’s being sold as a nostalgic return to the Superman of old. Oye veh! My guess is they would’ve done much better had they simply let Bryan Singer and pals be in charge of the marketing. It seems obvious he had a hand in the initial teaser trailers that first appeared last winter. And they worked! But when it came time to unleash the marketing plan, the boys and gals at WB screwed it up royally. It seems even Bryan Singer would agree with that, as he grumbled to anyone who would listen at the recent Comic Con. There’s more to that story here. Being that I’m a huge Superman fan, here’s hoping they get it right the next time. And if anyone at Warner Bros. wants advice on how to sell Superman to the world, I’d be more than happy to help.

He Said, She Said: Why the World Cup rules

2006-07-05T15:27:00.000-06:00

He Says:

I have to admit – in spite of all my very best efforts, I am now a World Cup fanatic. I tried to resist. I really did. But after watching the opening round in South America with rabid soccer (er, futbol) fans, I am officially hooked.

I'm amazed that one sport can unite an entire world filled with so many different languages and cultures. In the case of Ivory Coast, warring African tribes agreed to a truce for the duration of the World Cup. Now that the Ivory Coast team has been eliminated, I’m guessing all bets are off. But hey – it was a novel idea while it lasted. In fact, I think we should take it a step further.

I propose that all international disputes be settled out on the soccer field for the whole world to see. Try this scenario: if North Korea insists on developing nuclear weapons, the United States could challenge them to a friendly game of “kick the ball in the net.” My guess is North Korea wouldn’t have a very good team... which would be good for American diplomacy.

The problem here, of course, is that most countries are not so gung ho on the good old “USofA” as of late and would probably line up to challenge the US for a number of reasons. And judging by the US squad’s sorry performance at this year’s World Cup, this new order of diplomacy would likely cause most American politicians to shake in their boots.

But at least it’d be fair. And I think that most of the world would be able to accept the results. Just a thought.

Superman Returns....

2006-06-29T11:44:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
Ok so I have to admit I was not quite as excited to see Superman Returns on a Tuesday night at 10pm in 3-d IMAX as he was, but I did enjoy the show. The 3-d part was probably the coolest part. Excluding the minor glitches that made you go blind, it was awesome to see the clarity on the action packed scenes on the big screen.

However, I do have a few minor questions/complaints. It could just be my ignorance on previous Superman history, but here are my thoughts...

1. Superman's son - saw that one coming
2. If the kid can throw a piano, why can't he open the locked door?
3. If Superman was stabbed multiple times with Kryptonite, how could he live?
4. How did Lex Luther get into the secret old school superman world?
5. Superman kind of looked like a wax figure
6. Some of the dialogue was sooooo cheesy.
7. If Superman can fly into space why does he need a spaceship to come back to earth?

That being said, I still have much respect for Superman. I know these are small complaints in the larger movie, but those were the parts I didn't care so much for, and honestly... when I think of Superman, nothing can compare to the days of Marlon Brando & Christopher Reeve.

Overall I would give the movie a B+... but I guess I am kind of biased. I have always been more of a Spidey kind of gal.:)

pfsssssssssssssssssssssss...

Run out and go see Superman Returns!

2006-06-28T09:25:00.000-06:00

So how was Superman Returns? In a word...AWESOME! The film could have cut 10 minutes to make it go faster for all the non-geekies out there. But if you're a Superman fan, you're gonna love it. In my opinion, this was a much better approach than simply retelling the origin story.

Superman Returns truly is a sequel to Superman: The Movie (1978) and Superman II (1980). If you've got the time, go rewatch the DVDs because there's so much cool hidden stuff that most moviegoers are going to miss. The way the credits roll, the very last shot, the way he catches the car... these are all images lifted right outta the comic books or nods to the original films.

The music of John Williams embodies Superman. The filmmakers were wise to bring it back. Quick - hum the Spiderman theme. Can't do it? That's probably because you've got the Superman score burried in the back of your mind. I'd bet most kids at one point in their lives hummed the theme song while parading around the family living room in a cape. (OK, so maybe that was just me).

If you have the chance, go see Superman Returns in IMAX 3D. It is worth the price of admission and even better than I was expecting. This is the summer of Superman. Welcome back old friend.

Disclaimer: HE is a borderline obsessive Superman fan and has consistently dressed up in a cape and tights for every Halloween since the age of 12. And yes, HE even owned the Superman underoos. SHE's seen photos to prove it.

Get set for Spiderman 3

2006-06-26T09:40:00.000-06:00

For those sitting down to see Superman Returns this weekend, get your geek on for even more comic book fun as you'll likely preview the new Spiderman 3 trailer. We finally get to see Peter Parker in the black suit, which can only mean one thing. VENOM! Next summer is already shaping up to be a good one at the cineplex.

Check out the new Spiderman 3 trailer here

SUPERMAN coutdown

2006-06-22T13:51:00.000-06:00

He Says:

Plenty to blog about - still in the process of writing about our trip to South America - but today it's all about Superman. We've got tickets to see the new movie Superman Returns on the big IMAX screen in 3-D. I'm psyched, SHE - not so much. But she's a sport, and that's just one of the reaons I love her.

If you haven't seen the trailer yet for Superman Returns, be sure to click here for a peak. It's great to see the big red cape in glorious hi-def. Can't wait to see the movie. I didn't think it was possible, but this trailer has got me even more jazzed for opening night.

He Said, She Said: Back from South America

2006-06-20T22:52:00.000-06:00

We'll be back soon with plenty of HE SAID, SHE SAID updates... once we recover from our travels.
Just returned from our whirlwind trek through South America. Spent a few days in Bogota, Colombia for a wedding and another week in Peru. We said goodbye to toilets while hiking along the Inca Trail before hitting our final destination - Machu Picchu.

Da Vinci Code - save your money and read the book instead

2006-05-26T23:01:00.000-06:00

He Said:

SHE and I joined two friends opening night, one of whom hadn't read the book, in the 2nd row just off to the left and dug into our popcorn as the lights dimmed and the Dolby Digital surround sound roared to life.

And so began my Da Vinci Code experience - 150 minutes that I would love to have back. This was a rare occassion where the movie lived up to the hype. In this instance, that wasn't a very good thing.

The reviews were bad. I knew that going in. But I was still hoping to be surprised. The bad dialogue and Tom Hanks moptop I was expecting. The book was an entertaining read, so I was hoping for a fun translation to screen. Sadly, that would not be the case.

Bottom line: Read the book instead. But if you insist on wasting 2.5 hours of your life, run fast to the cineplex. But expect to be disappointed. SHE and I both were.

To learn what we really thought... and for more HE SAID SHE SAID Movie Reviews, go here.

The Countdown to Machu Picchu begins...

2006-05-17T16:55:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:

20 days to go! I am so excited, I can hardly stand it. The thought of hiking 30 miles to a lost Incan city in Peru with the one person I absolutely love to pieces makes me have perma-grin. I literally can't stop smiling!

He Said: The rules of life

2006-05-13T08:39:00.000-06:00

A smart man once told me to never forget and never lose your standards. The trick to life is that most people get bored or just fed up and end up caving to peer pressure or baby/marriage syndrome and just follow all the other lemmings off the cliff. So stay true to yourself and always look for the best – because chances are you’ll find it (and when you’re least expecting it). That’s the funny thing about life.

She Said: Adopting a puppy

2006-05-10T11:30:00.000-06:00

So we decided to add another puppy to our family. How could we say no to those little brown eyes and white dipped paws? What I didn't realize was that my morning ritual of 'hitting the snooze button until I have to rush around frantically to get to work routine' would no longer be a reality. It seems that puppies like to wake up around 5am, which is apparently prime playtime.

So my lazy sleep-in days are over and a new dawning, literally at dawn, has begun. I guess it is kind of good that I get up earlier, I feel like I actually have a full day instead of trying to cram everything in at 7pm when I get home from work. Not to mention it is good practice for when I want to have a kid one day and great birth control for now. haha! AND MAYBE, just maybe, I will actually make it to the gym one morning since I am already up.

The first week was really tough, from puppy potty training pads to hours & hours of Puggle #2 crying in her crate at night. Week 2 got a little better, although the poor baby got a bacterial infection and a VERY bad tummy ache. But with that behind us, now she is actually making it outside or to the potty pads. She has even started recogzing her name.

Even though my schedule has been completely rearranged and is so chaotic, there is nothing better than coming home to a wet nose and wagging tail. Except if there are two:)

Rules for getting your game back

2006-05-08T11:44:00.000-06:00

Admit it. Whether you're recently single or pining for a lost love, chances are you've slipped up. Perhaps the night began bar hopping with friends, as one friend recently confessed. But as the drinks pour on and the night continues, you suddenly find yourself dialing an Ex-Girlfriend or Ex-Boyfriend or former One Night Stand. The inevitable happens, and the next morning begins with "Uh oh." We've all been there. And yet there a million ways to handle the immediate fallout.

HE SAID:
The sex is over. Hopefully it was good. Time to get you out of there.

Rules are different if you're a guy. Rather than blog about what the guy should do, here's my advice for the GIRL. Immediately after parting ways, delete the guy's name out of your cell phone. Write it down on paper, put it in a drawer somewhere next to a photo of Grandma and begin the long withdrawal process. This removes the temptation to dial drunk next Girls Night Out. Even if you know it by heart, you're likely to dial the wrong number (or Grandma by mistake) next time you're all drunk up. But that's for next time. Let's talk about immediate damage control.

What's done is done. If regret was your first instinct the morning after, then DO NOTHING! Perhaps you really like the guy, but you're afraid he'll think you're too easy. Maybe you're trying to get this guy to commit and now you're scared you killed any chance of that. Again, DO NOTHING!

Most guys are going to call or email you within 24 hours. The reason we do this is simple: it's called Man-Guilt Syndrome. No matter how big the player or innocent his intentions, he's going to want to check in with you if only to reaffirm all is cool, he's really a nice guy, he's the one in control and you're his puppy. What this does is set the stage for him to slip away and disappear with no strings attached. But if you DON'T RESPOND to the inevitable phone call or email, suddenly he'll begin to wonder if perhaps he is YOUR puppy. And having survived the dating scene for more years than I care to remember, chances are that is exactly the case.

And so, if you're still into this guy and follow my advice, I guarantee by the end of the week he'll be calling you begging for a "real" date. Dinner, movie, wine... maybe sex. But YOU'LL be in control. And suddenly that drunk dial would have become something a lot more.

NOTE: Exempt from Man-Guilt Syndrome are serial daters, relationship whores and psycho stalkers. Those probably require a restraining order.

He Said: Rescued another puggle

2006-05-06T07:43:00.000-06:00

We made a spur of the moment decision last week to rescue another dog. Same breed as the first - puggle - except she's a baby at 10 weeks. When we adopted PUGGLE #1, we got lucky because he was a bit older and already housetrained. "Luck" for PUGGLE #2 is if she goes potty (I hate that word) NOT on the furniture.

I've heard layering the floor with newspaper is a good way to train a new puppy. What I didn't expect was that I'd have to change my newspaper subscription. For some strange reason, PUGGLE #2 will only go poop on a copy of USA TODAY. But if I lay down the Chicago Tribune, she just sits there and stares at me. I smell trouble, especially considering the dog doesn't even know her own name yet.

So now the balance of power has shifted in the He Said She Said household. Poor PUGGLE #1 was hoping for a brother. He spent the entire car ride home with his face buried against the back seat. The dog wanted nothing to do with SHE, who was up front cuddling with PUGGLE #2. Jealousy and resentment burned in his eyes. And if the dog has learned anything from me, he'll milk it for all it's worth and for as long as he can.

Hey, I'm not proud I taught my dog to manipulate. He just happens to be good at it.

Original Unaltered Star Wars Trilogy on DVD!

2006-05-03T21:03:00.000-06:00

All I can say is... ABOUT TIME! According to the press release below, we can now remember Han Solo as he was first introduced to the world. The baddass renegade who shot Gredo FIRST! If you're a Star Wars fan, it's time to get your geek on. Click here for details. Source: Lucasfilm

He Said, She Said: Marriage is what you make of it

2006-05-01T17:16:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
So I just read HIS posting from April 29th and it kind of rubbed me the wrong way.

Come on... just because all of your friends are married now doesn't make them boring. Granted they may not be the most exciting peeps I have ever met, but that has been consistent since when i met them BEFORE they were married. They have always been into trivia pursuit and wine/cheese.

My thoughts... GROW UP!

When it comes to marriage there are basically two options:
1- you can either get married, have kids, buy a house with a white picket fence and never go on dates anymore...

OR ....

2- you can continue being yourselves and grow together. This is the chance to start a new chapter of your life, any way you would like it! If you were cool to begin with, you aren't going to all of a sudden become a nerd. If you traveled before you were married, you are now going to have someone to travel with and share your adventures with not stop it completely.

In fact, why don't we talk about my married friends... One of my best girlfriends is married to a bass player in a band and has a one year old child. Do they sit at home and play lame board games?? No, they travel across the country, across the world for that matter. They just got back from a 2 month stay in California and are heading to Spain in the fall for a few weeks. Now that is what I am talking about.

In fact, take my parents for instance. My father was in the Air Force and stationed in Turkey when I was a little girl. Within the first three years of my life, I traveled to Turkey, Israel, Greece, Germany & the US. It was so cheap to fly out of Adana, Turkey that my parents wanted to take me on as many vacations as possible while we had the opportunity.

So don't blame someone's personality on being married and don't be resentful that they have grown up and moved on to the next stage in their lives. That is what THEY have chosen for themselves & they are happy.

Married friends are boring

2006-05-01T08:30:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

It's Monday, I’m tired and I want my weekend back. Didn’t get to see a movie this weekend and that was one of my main goals. Pretty mellow actually. Spent Saturday night at a friend’s place celebrating their birthday. Do you have any friends who you consider to be “friends” but really bore you to death??

It seems like all my friends are getting married or having kids or buying homes or whatever… and a bunch have all clustered together to talk homebuying and furniture and eat cheese and play scrabble. Ugh! How dull… every time I turn to SHE and say, “if we ever turn into this please shoot me.” I mean, the least they could do is offer up some uber cool games like Chutes & Ladders or Phase 10. Now THAT would be a rockin’ good time…

Every relationship has its Brokeback moment

2006-04-29T21:40:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:

I suppose it's inevitable in every relationship, and perhaps I shouldn't have resisted for so many weeks. But I finally caved and rented Brokeback Mountain on DVD. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I'm against seeing a movie about two cowboys in love. Not at all. It's just that I wasn't in any rush to see it. But with SHE at home sick and not feeling well, I decided to surprise her with dinner and a DVD. And ya know what? The movie is every bit as good as everyone said it was. Great acting, good story and stellar cinematography.

To read more about my take on the film Brokeback Mountain, and other HE SAID, SHE SAID Movie Reviews, click here.

SHE SAID: Pet Peeve #1 - Dirty, crusty dishes in the sink

2006-04-24T17:57:00.000-06:00

She Said:

Can someone please tell me why even if the dishwasher is empty, he will not rinse his plate and put it in the sink?!?! I just don't get it... at his mom's house he always puts the dishes in the sink.

It seems like no matter what I do, how much I beg & plead it is physically impossible to either rinse the spaghetti sauce off the plate or to put it in the dish washer. You would think that the recent gnats might set off an alarm since it was he who pointed them out.

I have always been a pretty cool girlfriend, but ever since we have moved in I feel like I have become a nagging mother. I know we are tired and have long days, but after 3 days of mac-n-cheese sitting in a pot in the sink it STINKS!!!! and then it is so crusty there is no way in hell you can get the noodles off the pan.

It takes .5 seconds to rinse the plate when you are finished, but yet he seems to get lost somewhere between the remote control & the kitchen.

However, he has actually improved since his bachelor pad days... there were a few times I almost passed out from the fumes at his old place. I guess some might say I should have seen it coming and it is my fault for buying into those broken promises, but I still have faith in my baby. Yes, I did totally fall for the whole "BABY I PROMISE I WILL ALWAYS CLEAN UP AFTER MYSELF AND DO THE DISHES" line, but I would rather work on the whole dirty dishes thing than to not eat dinner together every night... even if it is on TV trays.

He Said: Learning from Big Sister

2006-04-17T13:04:00.000-06:00

Our family differences could make for some interesting psychoanalysis.

Take me for instance. I've been a Midwest guy from the day I was born, and I come from a pretty liberal family. At the dinner table, no topic was ever off limits. I had an older sister to learn from - and whenever she screwed up, Mom made sure I witnessed it.

One of my fondest memories of Big Sis was her hugging the toilet puking up vodka after a night out with friends. Mom got me out of bed for that one. Being that I was only 8 or so at the time, I was confused why Mom made no effort to help Big Sis. Instead, she simply watched. The lesson I learned that night was to never piss off Mom.

He Said: Running with your eyes closed

2006-04-11T08:33:00.000-06:00

Last week I ran the LaSalle Bank Shamrock Shuffle 8K. I must be getting lazy because I finished about 5 minutes slower than last year. I could blame my poor time on the fact that I was running late - having quite literally jumped out of a cab 3 blocks from the start as the gun went off. I sprinted all the way to the starter's line and never stopped once before reaching the end.

Under normal circumstances, that'd be a perfectly legitimate excuse for my poor time. But I did the same thing last year. Only difference was this year I skipped the gear check and carried my cell phone with me as I ran.

Even after waking up early, I found one distraction after another to avoid getting ready. It was only a matter of time before I was running late. Procrastination is the ultimate buzz kill. And it's a tough habit to break. I fear SHE's convinced one day I'll be late to our own wedding because I'll be checking my fantasy baseball stats.

Incurable procrastination. Consider it part of my charming personality.

SHE SAID: The Grass is Always Greener

2006-04-05T23:09:00.000-06:00

I heard a phrase tonight that sunk in so deep and is ever so true...

"life happens while you are busy planning it"

This is so true. When do things ever go like you plan them? It's like we spend so much time planning out our futures and what we need to do that we miss out on what is going on now.

I can remember always having a dream... when I was a teenager I wanted to own an advertising company and be a powerful business woman. I didn't care about getting married, having kids. I dreamt of growing older so I could begin my journey towards the top. I would move away to open a company... I would work late nights or whatever it took to get to the top.

I studied advertising, web design, did internships... before I knew it college was over.

And it hit me... WHEN IN LIFE DO YOU HAVE THE CHANCE TO GET UP AND GO ANYWHERE YOU HAVE DREAMED OF? NOW!

So I packed my bags and moved to the big city of Los Angeles. Coming from a small town in Kentucky, I was a southern belle with big dreams. I had always wanted to move to California. After all of my hard work I decided I would live life and take some time off. So for the first time in 10 years, i stopped working in a corporate environment & just lived.

I did freelance web design. I worked concerts and movies. I drove to the beach in my wrangler with the top down. I played guitar every morning on my rooftop deck while I had a cup of tea. Oh and the mountains! I would hike them everyday! The freedom was amazing... until the bills came.

I could get by on numerous jobs, but after awhile I needed a little more stability. So the worrying began. The last 8 months I was in Cali, I spent thinking about how I could of, should of & would have been on my way to the top if I hadn't have taken time off. So I started working at a PR firm. This was fun for a bit, but the people there were a little crazy.

I liked California, but I started getting the itch to move again. What else is out there? What am I capable of? So the next few months I spent researching my new home. I visited Chicago & fell in love. I didn't know anyone in there, but the people seemed great and you could just feel the opportunity when you visited the city. I felt like there were challenges waiting for me to overcome and if i didn't like it, i could always move somewhere else in a couple of years. The last few months in LA I don't even remember.... I was just counting down the days to head across the country.

I have been in Chicago for a couple of years and have worked my way into a great position at an advertising agency. I have become the powerful corporate woman I had dreamt of at a younger age... yet the simplicity of life while I was playing the guitar in Cali still circles in my mind. How did I leave fabulous friends in such a warm, fun city?

As I work hours and hours and hours, I think about how I used to care less about having a family of my own and realize now that this is a special gift in life... continuing to grow. What is more important the money or the friends, family and things in life that make it worth living? For me it is life. I would rather make less money than to miss out on the important things that you can never get back. I know I won't stay in this corporate role forever, my priorities have changed and will continue to change. But, I do know that I made a promise to myself to never have a job that I didn't love, life is too short. So as I change and as I grow, I will continue to follow my dreams and my heart where ever they may lead me.

I guess my point is...to not miss out on the things going on today because you can't stop anticipating your next move. Travel ANYWHERE you possibly can because you never know how many tomorrows will come. Enjoy whatever makes you happy, even if it is only for a short moment. And remember that no matter how much you gain, there is always something else we want, so don't take for granted the things you have today because they may not last forever.

He Said: Relationship identity crisis

2006-03-27T15:57:00.000-06:00

Flashback to 2005

SHE and I have been together 14 months. Although I wouldn’t trade a single day for anything else, each day forward serves as a reminder of something more permanent. At least now I'm able to consider the possibility. It was only a few short months ago that the very notion was unthinkable (and "unmentionable"). Some days I can imagine myself spending the rest of our lives together. Other days I’m terrified by the idea.

We may share a lot of passions and interests, but there are also some very big differences between us. The 2 biggies are Family and Religion. It’s funny, but for 2 frank and totally honest people, we hardly ever really discuss the whole “religion” thing. So let me break it down for you: I’m Jewish and she’s not. 99% of the time it’s no big deal, but then suddenly it is…

Perhaps we both know how big of a deal it is and just choose to ignore it. Or maybe we’re scared that it could be the one thing that keeps us apart in the end. And still, we do everything in our power to avoid the subject. I suppose that’s typical of most new “serious” relationships. Once you get comfortable with someone, it’s easy to lapse into tired habits. I know in many of my past failed relationships, there reached a point where I began to feign interest in whatever the ex-SHE happened to be saying. Thankfully, that isn’t a problem with the current SHE as I’m fascinated by almost everything she has to say. Almost.

But still, there are differences to overcome. The most obvious being our families. SHE is your “untypical” typical southern belle – minus the accent. Her parents couldn’t be more different than mine. Everything in her household revolved around religion and church camp. No drinking, no smoking, no swearing, no politics allowed. Unless you’re voting Republican.

You can imagine this makes for an exciting (and unpredictable) dinner experience whenever her parents are in town. If you’re sitting at a nearby table, that is. For me, it's just a reminder that the one true thing we all have in common is SHE.

SHE SAID: %$Toe Cramp!!!

2006-03-14T23:35:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...SHE SAID:

So in effort to maintain or rather restart my work out routine in preperation for Peru, I ventured to the gym yesterday after work and suffered through an hour long cardio tai boxing class. After a rushed shower, I headed over to meet HE for a Swing dance lesson.

I felt absolutely fabulous.... until tonight. I don't know if it was from the 3-inch heels that carry my 5'9 figure on a daily basis or some random muscle spasm, but I was in PAIN!!

Just a couple of hours ago in the midst of contestant #11 from American Idol, I sprung two feet up into the air, screaming in agony while trying to stretch out a sharp pain from my middle toe down the center of my foot and down the right side! I have no idea why or how this happened, but it wasn't the first time. At the most random (and/or inconvenient) times, I find myself limping around the room for 5 minutes trying to alleviate this excruciating pain from my foot. Let me tell you... it SUCKS!

HE called the doctor and immediately ran out to the grocery to load up on water and potassium vitamins in hopes that I am simply dehydrated and in need of some additional nutrients. I am hoping his magical cure works, I REALLY don't want to go to the doctor. I will keep you posted...

SHE SAID: Smiling from the inside

2006-03-09T21:33:00.000-06:00

She Said:

I know this is SUPER CHEESY... but every day I find myself smiling for absolutely no reason.

Yesterday, HE pointed out it was our 2 yr 3 month anniversary.

Tuesday, HE dragged me out of bed to work out (prepping for our Machu Picchu trip)

The day before, HE sung G-Love to me as I covered my head with the pillow at 6:45AM.

Last Week, HE cooked me dinner and bought me flowers.

Last Month, HE signed us up to take ballroom dance classes.

Last Year, WE traveled to Spain and I watched him complete his first full marathon in Hawaii.

The Year before that HE bought me our puggle, the BEST DOG in the world.

2 years and 3 months ago, I fell in love with the most incredible man ever and my feet haven't touched the ground since.

HE SAID: Dance Lessons, Take 1

2006-03-06T20:19:00.000-06:00

Looking into Girlfriend's eyes as we fumbled our way through the foxtrot during our very first dance lesson, I understood just how deeply I truly love this woman. Hell, it must be love if she inspired me to sign up for dance lessons by my own volition.

Whether she's singing "bushel and a peck" from Guys & Dolls absentmindedly while carrying dirty clothes around the apartment, or smiling wide as I step on her toes with my two left feet, I know without hesitation that this is the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with. Which by the way fellas, is a prerequisitive for signing you and your gal up for dance class.

Now while I may not be up there with the C-listers from "Dancing with the Stars," our dance instructor says I'm pretty good. Of course, I'm sure she says that to all the guys just so they return for the next lesson. Just so long as SHE is impressed with my dancing feet, it'll be enough for me.

SHE SAID: Workout Status

2006-03-05T20:39:00.000-06:00

She Said:

OK so I am not doing too good on the 3x/wk work-out. In fact I have only been to the gym twice since we decided to go to Machu Picchu. Something about waking up early in the morning to go sweat just does not intrigue me. In fact, I have absolutely no excuse for after work either. I have left by 6pm every night these past couple of weeks. I need to find some kind of motivation... hmmmmm..... if only it was warm outside. Riding a bike down the beach in the sunshine vs. the elliptical on cold rainy day uck.... I know where I'd rather be.

SHE SAID: We are climbing Machu Picchu!

2006-02-22T22:36:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:

It's official, I HAVE to hit the gym as soon as possible!!

I am so excited... one of his best friends is getting married in Bogota, Colombia this June and we have decided to extend the trip and climb Machu Picchu in Peru! I cannot wait!

I have heard that this is truly life changing.

Maybe it is because you realize how lucky we have it and how much we take for granted everyday.

Maybe the Incan spirits haunt you on the trails as you climb mile after mile.

OR

Maybe it is just the Cocoa Tea, who knows but I am definitely going to have to start working out. The post holiday blahs have given me a huge case of the lazies!

So starting this week, I am going to start my routine. My goal is to go to the gym 3 times a week and eat healthier/drink less. I know this doesn't sound like a huge goal, but it seems lately the only life i have had is at the office. 12 hour days don't get you in shape, that is for sure!

I have to start now since Machu Picchu is like 7000 ft above sea level! The altitude will kill me if I am not in shape... And i refuse to be the straggler on the trail, just not my style:)

So here's to day one of my new health kick...;) I will keep you posted...

HE SAID: Did I really just sign us up for dance lessons?

2006-02-17T12:16:00.000-06:00

Damn Valentine's Day. It's because of this stupid, commercialized fake of a holiday I decided to sign Girlfriend and I up for dance lessons. Oye veh! What was I thinking? Our first lesson is week after next. This could be bad. I'll let you know how it goes...

HE SAID: Flashback to Valentine's Day

2006-02-15T14:06:00.000-06:00

I decided to cook SHE dinner and take her to see a live cabaret style show in Chicago. After being escorted to our seats, we took in a night of lounge singing filled with songs by Frank Sinatra & the Rat Pack. By the end of the night when I glanced over at my girl, it was clear I had done good. A definite improvement over the previous Valentine’s Day - which we’ll save for an altogether separate posting. I can't help but look forward to the many other V-Day's in our future.

SHE SAID: Valentine's Day SUCKS

2006-02-13T21:17:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...SHE SAID:

SOOOOOO overrated! Don't you love how Hallmark has created this commercialized holiday that has taken over the country. For some reason everyone feels they must have a date for this evening, rushing around to make last minute dinner plans at an extremely overpriced restaurant. Or those who don't have dates, they offer singles events and cupid bashing parties which underlying are truly just a breeding ground to get someone laid.

HE SAID: In love more than ever

2006-01-19T11:36:00.000-06:00

SHE is by definition the best girlfriend ever. I know that sounds terribly cliched and unoriginal, but I know in my heart that SHE is the best that I'll ever have.

Funny, witty, clever, affectionate (but in a way different from the Puggle), caring, loving, great in the kitchen, great in the bed, adventurous, sexy as all hell, major sports nut and always so full of energy and life. After 800+ days together, I know without hesitation that I love her more than any other woman ever in my life (including my mother).

One of the things I love most about Girlfriend is her ability to arm my words and spring them into action. Before we met, I would always talk and talk about taking a big vacation. But after allowing my vacation days to pile up, I'd spend most years enjoying my vacation in a movie theater or visiting the folks back home. Just a few short months after we started dating, I remember casually "talking" about taking a vacation. I was serious about my intentions, but perhaps not so serious about my actions. Before I knew it we had tickets booked to Florida, and we were about to enjoy the first of many incredible vacations together. That's what I love most about my girl - she's much more than just talk. And she inspires me to back up my words with action.

He Said: Avoiding responsibility

2005-12-04T18:17:00.000-06:00

I always wasn't so sure of everything in my life. I remember as a young kid being on some family vacation and everyone joking that some day later in life (many years later) I would be torn over what girl to marry. Worse still, I would need to call my mother for her opinion. Sad fact of life, but true nonetheless. Not even sure why I remember random things like that.

I certainly don't want to live my life in hesitation. Each day I strive to be stronger and have greater conviction in all the decisions I face. I'm scared to death of waking up many years from now trapped in an unfilfilling and emotionless life. And yet that's exactly where I'll find myself should I become trapped by hesitation.

This really is the last moment in life that I'll ever be so free of responsibility. I have no mortgage or loans or kids (aside from the Puggle) to worry about. I really could just get up and roam the Earth so should I choose. But I couldn't stand to lose Girlfriend. And I would miss my family - and any future nieces or nephews.

Sometimes I think had my older Sister not gotten married so young, I would have moved to whatever city she happened to live in. It would have been fun. But she's married, and happily so for over 7 years. After spending my entire life in the midwest, I think I'm finally ready to try a new locale. I'm not sure how many more Chicago winters I can endure. I need the sun. I crave the sun. But alas, the Puggle would miss the snow. I wonder if SHE would be open to a move.

He Said: Too much use of "honey" going around

2005-11-15T14:23:00.000-06:00

What's the proper etiquette and use of the word "honey?" The way I see it, you can use the word "Honey" if you're a girl talking to another girl... and in college. It's fine to use if you mix it with some babytalk when ooo-ing and ah-ing over some newborn. You're in clear waters if you're over the age of 65 and talking to someone a third of your age. And in some societies, I guess you could get away with it if you profess to be a fan of that awful Mariah Carey movie. It's fine by me to throw out a "Honey" if you're a prostitute trying to solicit business on a slow and rainy Saturday afternoon. I mean, not that I'd know. I saw it in the movies once. One scenario in which I never want to hear the word "Honey" is during a job interview or in a phone message. And yet, I got hammered with both earlier today. Now don't get me wrong, I'm a guy and GUYS by nature love being called honey by any woman -- even when she's your 85 yr old grandmother. But to be called "honey" by some random chick I've never met and who is at least half a dozen years younger gave me pause. I wasn't offended or anything. (In fact, it takes a LOT to offend me. I've seen a lot, heard even more and there isn't much you could probably do or say that would make me blush. Go ahead - try.) If anything, I was amused... because the HONEY in this situation was most definitely the faceless broad rambling on and filling up my voice mail about some job interview I had already said I wasn't interested in. But I digress...

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HE SAID: Puggle power

2005-09-20T10:28:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:

I love the puggle and I certainly cannot imagine my life without him. He's the sweetest, most affectionate, playful and feisty dog ever - but it really is like having a kid at times. Especially when SHE is out doing her own thing.

For those of you who don't know, a Puggle is a mix between a pug and a beagle. See for yourself here to learn more about puggles. I've seen them on the news lately as one of those "designer type" dogs, but I swear we had him before there ever was such a thing. The worst designer dog out there has got to be a Labradoodle. Or perhaps a Goldendoodle. I mean, what sort of sick hybrid is that anyway? The answers, of course, are a mix between a Labradore and a Poodle for the first one and then a mix between a Golden Retriever and a poodle for the second dog. I guess the poodles are getting busy around town these days. But I digress...

Everything I do outside of work must be carefully planned with the Puggle in mind. I gotta be home to feed him, walk him and exercise him - and whenever I'm not I feel terribly guilty. One major downside is that I don't get to hang out as much with my friends. But I guess that's a small price to pay in exchange for the unfailing (and neverending) love of a dog. The puggle has the power to make you smile or cheer you up on the darkest of days. The puggle loves playing in the snow so much that you can't help but smile - no matter how wet or dirty the little guy gets. I really cannot imagine ever not having him in my life, which makes me hope that things never go sour with SHE.

HE SAID: Job survival skills

2005-09-08T11:52:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:

"You are bright and clever." -- That's what my fortune cookie read on my first day on the job while dining with my new co-workers.

Once again I am starting anew at a large advertising/marketing agency. Only this time I am the only guy on the team, working amongst 12 other women. As is to be expected at most ad agencies, the women tend to outnumber the men. But this is the first time I will have worked on a team in a complete testosterone vacuum. It's a definite change of pace for me, having previously worked at male dominated marketing shops. However, it could make for some interesting times... in fact, I may enjoy this.

She Said... one month and 23 days later

2005-08-23T20:34:00.000-06:00

One month and 23 days later there are only three pictures hanging on the wall. Actually two pictures and a clock...

For some stupid reason, when my boyfriend and I moved into our new home, per HIS request… I made the agreement to wait to hang stuff up until “we could do it together”.

Excited about our new condo and as an interior decorating phenatic… I WAITED patiently for the “magical” moment where we would be “together” to hang the pictures. HAHAHA!!

There was the Cardinals game (which we will discuss sports at another time), the long night at work, the training for the marathon and it goes on & on.

3 weeks, 2 glasses of wine and 10 excuses later, I took the hammer and nails into my own hands and hung 2 pictures and a clock… how lame.

Naturally, since I didn’t wait until we could “do it together”, the pictures were “hung too low”.

So once again… I WAITED…

A number of broken promises later, I still have only 2 pictures and a clock hanging on the walls of our 2 bedroom condo. It has been almost two months since we moved in!!!

So… I have decided if he is not going to make the time/effort to abide by HIS suggestion to hang the pics together… why the hell should I??

It has been so hard not to tackle a decorating project head on… this is my passion. It is like giving a kid 10 new toys and telling them they are not allowed to play with them.

If he had any interest in decorating, it might be another story, but tonight I am going at it alone and I have a date with the hammer in a desperate attempt to make our new condo feel like a home.

Then maybe we can sit back and enjoy the pictures on the walls.... together.

HE SAID: First impressions

2005-07-22T10:10:00.000-06:00

It's been three weeks since SHE and I have moved in together, and so far so good. Most days it's great and it seems like we've been living together for years. On the other hand, it seems like we've been doing this for years - which is a scary thought in of itself.

At times I can't help but wonder if the life I've so long been accustomed to has been neutered by domestic bliss. With only 3 weeks under our belt, I can't yet tell whether that would be a good thing or a bad thing. But I'm game to find out. Hell, what is life but a series of endless conjecture.

And so the bliss continues...

HE SAID...baby steps

2005-07-02T00:54:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:

We're just days away from the big "move in" date. It certainly doesn't help that I absolutely dread moving. I find the entire process to be unbearable, and that's not necessarily a good thing when you're about to move in with your girlfriend. But it seems moving in together is all SHE wants to talk about, which of course just increases my anxiety and uneasiness.

As Mom said this past weekend, moving in together is "making quite the statement." But I almost feel that choosing NOT to live together would have made an even bigger statement. By all intents and purposes, I really did bring this all about on my own. So I figure at least some part of me wants it - unless I am just trying to sabotage the whole thing. Seems a bit late for that sort of thinking now.

The lease is signed, money has exchanged hands and already we're picking out furniture, TV's and other new appliances. It all just makes me so incredibly nervous. What if we drive each other mad? What if her cleaning obsession clashes with my "leave the dishes for later" mentality? Well, that's probably inevitable.

I suppose I have to grow up a bit. Part of me thought I always would remain single - but SHE is just too great to pass up. The very idea of moving in together is a bit daunting and a helluva lot scary. But alas, here I am jumping into the unknown with my eyes wide shut. Maybe I'll surprise myself and end up loving it all. After all, it isn't quite marriage just yet. At least not yet... Baby steps, I keep telling myself. Baby steps.

She Said: Moving in together

2005-06-29T20:39:00.000-06:00

I am kind of torn on the decision we just made, I am very excited on one hand but am extremely nervous on the other. In fact I think I am going to have a glass of red wine as I detail the story...

A few days ago, we decided to move in together into a two bedroom condo with a beautiful view. We spend so much time at each other's places that it definitely makes sense. Especially if we are going to save any money for the future. Although there are a few things floating around in my head that are making me VERY nervous...

1. He has furniture from his college fraternity house in his studio apt.
2. His bathroom floor is growing hair.
3. His diet consists of Mac & Cheese, M&Ms and IcePops
4. There are only two closets in the new place, where am i going to put all of my shoes and purses?

Don't get me wrong, he is a fabulous man otherwise i wouldn't move in with him. He just has a loyalty to certain material items that he cannot depart from. Relationships take compromise, but we BOTH have to do the compromising and as stubborn as we both are, this could become quite a challenge.

I guess the main concern is that my space will now become "our" space.

Currently I live in a 900 sq feet one bedroom apartment in a courtyard building on the northside. I LOVE IT! It was my first apartment where I actually had no roommates. As an only child who loves her alone time, this was heaven. It only lasted a short 1.5 yrs., but i loved every second of it. Well almost, until a couple of weeks ago when I saw a mouse! Ever since then I have been camping out at his place.

One of my girlfriends and I were in a deep conversation about life and love when out of the corner of our eyes, we saw a mouse run across the floor! In standard girl reaction, we screamed and jumped on top of the first available piece of furniture. After I caught my breath, the braver side of myself came forth. I grabbed a stepstool, a broom and my boots as I headed across the room to coerce the lil' mouse to go out the back door. I must have swiped the side of the fridge at least 20 times without any stir, then in my last attempt, he ran in between my legs and under the stove. My friend was on top of the table screaming and calling HE to let him know we were headed over for the night. THERE WAS NO WAY WE WERE SLEEPING WITH THE MOUSE!! I grabbed a bag and packed at least 3 weeks worth of clothes and we headed out to catch a cab.

Little did we know at 3am in the pouring down rain there would be a shortage. A 20 minute wait in the storm and a mile cab ride later we made it over to his apartment where we were safe.

My place was never messy ( I clean obsessively), so i don't know where the mouse could have come from. I assume that since it is an older vintage style apartment he was probably hanging out in the walls with those nasty spiders that would occasionally rear their ugly heads.

I loved that place, but I guess I am ready for a change. Hopefully this will be one for the good. I am sure we will have a few kinks to work out, but when it comes down to it there is nothing i want more than to wake up and see those chocolate eyes, curly black ringlets and those adorable dimples everyday.

He Said: Moving in together

2005-06-24T19:51:00.000-06:00

It’s official. After dating for a year and a half, Girlfriend (aka “SHE”) and I are moving in together. Goodbye bachelor pad, hello roommate.

This hasn’t been the easiest of decisions. In fact, there have been some very real moments when I felt physically ill, paralyzed by self-doubt and uncertainty. It began as a throwaway comment, but snowballed into something more permanent. The funny thing about this whole situation is that it was really MY decision to move in together.

So let’s backtrack a bit and see how it all began.

I'm not sure what prompted me to snatch the flyer hanging on the bulletin board in the laundry room, thrust it into the hands of Girlfriend and declare, "Hey, there's a 2 bedroom unit available for real cheap in my building. Let's go check it out." It all happened so quickly, so innocently, and I couldn’t even grasp the seriousness of those four words: “Let’s move in together.” I very easily could have said “Let’s watch some TV” and things would have progressed much differently. But I didn’t. And before I realized what was happening, Girlfriend was dragging me around town scouting for apartments. Almost overnight, it seemed, our relationship had reached a crossroads. And it was all because of me.

Am I really ready to take that next step and move in with SHE? The only thing I am sure of is that my nerves have hijacked my body and swiped my appetite. I can’t eat a thing - and still I’m starving! The decision to move in together should be an easy decision. Logically, it makes sense. We spend so much time together already. And of course there's the dog to consider.

Currently, the dog splits his time with me in my cramped (but homely) convertible studio and the rest with SHE in her homely (but bug infested) 1 bedroom apartment. You would think the poor dog would be confused, especially considering that we rescued him from a shelter. But he seems to enjoy the best of both worlds. He can play with all the other dogs in my building, and chase all the bugs at her place. If the dog were human, he'd probably be in therapy.

I guess moving in together makes sense. But then you factor in all the "other" stuff yet to be discussed – kids, marriage, religion, lifelong commitment – and suddenly I find myself on the verge of a nervous breakdown. So long as we take baby steps and leave all that "other" stuff for later – then I can see moving in together working out quite well for us both. There are moments even when I’m excited. It's when my mind gets ahead of my feet that I find myself drowning in doubt.

It's a big next step, but it feels right. Ask me again after I've eaten.