No no no - keep talking. I'm still listening

Yes, I send over 3,000 txts and 250 emails monthly and am a compulsive mobile device checker/user.

Yes, I need help finding hope outside my inbox.

Yes, during dinner, I am inclined to reach for my phone and check the notifications of  new messages and/or information being received.

Yes, if we're in the car for any length of time, I may go silent and indulge in a little mobile connectivity.

Yes, if we're debating an issue and I need more resources, I will stop to Gooooogle the topic and educate myself.

Yes, I receive complaints.

BUT I'd never utilize my mobile device in the midst of serious conversation or in sensitive situations.

AND that sucker doesn't even make an appearance when I'm on a date or having QT.


AND I'd never forsake your company solely for my mobile device.

AND I keep my phone securely in my bag when in company that has specifically asked in the past that I "put the phone away".  It stays away.

...so YES, I realize that my phone usage can be considered rude and that the exceptions I make may not be adequate BUT lately I've been practicing leaving it in my bag when socializing.  I've been successful thus far AND I don't like it :p

WARNING To all my fellow compulsive mobile users: Hazardous Materials Below

The Phonekerchief

"Send the right signal by giving dinner partners your undivided attention with this innovative, service-blocking hanky made with silver fibers that effectively block incoming calls and texts. "My phone is off for you," says it all, so you can, too. Cut, sewn, and printed in the USA of fabric made in China. 55% silver, 45% nylon. Phonekerchief fabric is silver-grey in color.  Exclusively at  UncommonGoods."

*gag*

Seriously..It's Time To Put Your Foot Down

As much as I abhor utilizing them, I pride myself on my ability to get into and out of a public bathroom w/o touching a single thing with my hands. A ninja, if you please. Yeah, it's difficult when others are in the ladies' room as well. But I think risking a bit of embarrsement and a achey muscle from turning on the water with the heel of my shoe is worth it. Would you prefer an odd look from a stranger that you will never see again or MRSA on your fingertips that will flair up every couple months? Prioritize.

I have never doubted God's existence or His love for me but when I see things like the Toepener™, it's just a lil reminder that He knows I'm a weirdo and He loves me just the same.

My fellow ninjas call me Yasu Star. What is your ninja name?

ROMANCE DOESNT COST MONEY

Romance Doesn't Cost Money

My Great Aunt said B.B. King used to come in the house and eat up ALL the chicken. LOL

 (source)

The Blues, baby ;-)

Fat

A few nights ago, we went out for an impromptu drink with his business partners and had a nice, quiet time. When we got in, he did his usual: removed his shoes outside my bedroom door, grabbed my laptop and the remote and started his simultaneous channel and internet surfing. I went to the kitchen to cook him his fav late-night crap snack then we settled into our routine: Him sitting on the floor, silently devouring his food while watching some show that causes me to roll my eyes incessantly, and me sitting on the bed doing a puzzle…secretly watching the crap show as well. (Shhh….)

The entire evening was predictable until about 15 minutes later when he broke his silence: “That was great. Thanks. Wow, this is a really nice plate, Ives! You have good taste.” LOL He’s right. It is a nice plate.

When I found these, I loved that they were simplistic in the plain white yet had character through the asymmetrical design.  These plates are small enough to use as "casual use" dinner plates and large enough to convert to a platter for appetizers and buffet items when entertaining. These were exactly what I was needed and the price was right.

I tend to avoid plates with  much pattern and/or color because, in my opinion, it makes the food look dizzy and unappetizing. After all, can you thoroughly enjoy your medium rare Steak au Poivre with roosters, clowns and cows dancing around the plate tormenting you? Personally, if i'm eating steak, I don't want to look at a cow. It's bad enough that meat is murder. I prefer not to view the victim's extended family while chowing down on Uncle James. LOL That's just inconsiderate.


Now I'm not totally against all color and design. I just don't find the crazy themed plates appealing or appetizing.

I happen to love Pfaltzgraff Patio Garden.
 


Pfaltzgraff Folk Art is charming.

I plan on purchasing a few Parisian Fruit small plates for Saturday breakfast parties.

If you find yourself a victim of unappetizing dinnerware, please take a jaunt on over to your local department store to refresh your collection.  Crate & Barrel is classic and will never fail you.  Of course, everyone's current or past favorite, Peir 1 Imports has nice things. Kohls carries most trusted brands: Mikasa, Pfaltzgraff, Nikko and The Food Network.  I long to own several of the collections at Neiman Marcus . They are to die!! *drool*

It's easy to forget that the canvas is just as important as the subject. Take pride in all aspects of the presenting of your meals.  Ugly dinnerware is not fair. LOL It's not fair to the food or the cook.

I'm Floored

Timothy Bloom's 
'Til The End of Time' Featuring V Bozeman rocks my socks. 

And the video! 

Geeze...the video is 

majestic, vulnerable and powerful.

Because the video is NSFW as it contains partial nudity, you can find it when you continue reading...

Happy Feet

(Source)

The Floating Bed

Come, let me make you happy. Take a minute and capture a mental pic of the material object you consider most amazing in this world. Got it? Ok, this is better.  

"It’s an ideal bed, and relaxation device. It’s an art piece. It’s an instant party, a natural gathering place for friends, or a special guest. It will be hard to keep your friends out of it, if you show it to them."

"It provides the best sleep possible. Unlike an old-fashioned, bed, even a 3-5 minute “pick-me-up” session on a Floating Bed will provide a significant energy boost, thanks to the increased circulation and cellular oxygenation that the motion provides. This is the best way to sleep, and relax."

Please visit the website for additional details and pricing. You may then email me for my shipping info:  ivyrachelle@gmail.com