Birthday Gift Dilemma

My husband's birthday is next week. I have been thinking what I could get him. It's just that he doesn't seem to want anything. Asking him what he wants, doesn't work. He doesn't even know what he wants.

And I don't think I can beat last year's present. I got him tickets to the New Orleans Saints game vs Green Bay, which Saints kicked butt and broke the record for the most points scored in the Superdome by the Saints.

Amazing game, glad we were there.

I thought about getting him football tickets again, but this year is a little harder. Most games are already sold out. And he's been working longer hours than before. So I don't know if he can make it to any of the game dates.

What should I do?

Daycare Hysterics

Megan is starting daycare on Monday. And I'm nervous. I know she'll cry. I know I'll cry. I don't even know if I can leave her in the care of strangers.

I just have to do it. I'm 5 months pregnant, working and grandma is very taxed from watching a growing 19 month old. Megan is stronger, faster now. She's injured grandma on several occasions and is getting very heavy for anyone of us to carry around.

I'm hopeful that we've chosen the right daycare. I was recommended to Primrose School but online reviews give me a bad feeling.

I don't know if I'm making the right decision. Well I know Megan needs to go to daycare to interact better with other kids her age. And she seems to like to play with other kids.

Our plan is to drop her off Monday at 9am or 10am. Play with her a bit and get her situated with the class. We'll probably pick her up at 1pm for several weeks. After several weeks, we'll extend the pickup time to 3pm. The latest we might leave her til is 5pm. But that's very rare.

Cross your fingers for us. I'll keep everyone updated.

Joys of Parenting

My 19th month old baby girl is really growing. She's just sprouting super fast. At her last checkup she was 34.5 inches tall and weighed 26lbs. The doctor was asking how many words she can really say and I was worried that she wasn't talking much. Mostly it was in baby gibberish that 90% of time no one could understand.

She says:
Mom
Dad
Ba - for grandma
Um - pick me up in vietnamese but it's been like 3 months since she said that word.
Where's that?
What's that?
Who's that?

Today she said something new! I had turned on the TV for her and she replied, "Tank You." hehe. I was shocked.

It made me happy and it's kinda promising that I'm doing something right.

Growth Spurt Over?

Wow, it's been a tough couple of months. When Megan turned 16 months, we noticed she began to be more whiny. She made hold her more often even when I told her I was very tired. She threw more temper tantrums when things didn't go her way. And it was awful going out to dinner with her throwing food and refusing to eat!

We were getting very sad and we missed our sweet natured baby.

For the past week, it has been a lot better. Especially going out to dinner last night. She did throw food on the floor but it was an accident. She picked up her bowl a little to swiftly and the contents flew out. She was easily entertained at dinner with sipping ice tea out of a straw and with ice cubes that she could play with. And she readily slurped up her milk without me, pushing the cup at her.

Today was another great day. Great improvement. At 12:30pm she climbed into bed, grabbed a pillow, pulled the covers over herself, babbled for a couple of minutes and now she's asleep. First time in a loonnng time that she was able to do that.

I did notice that 1 of her back molars came in. Maybe the babying was because she was in pain and she just wanted some affection. It is nice to have my sweet girl back. But I'm not looking forward to the other 3 molars though.

Horrible Vietnamese Customer

This vietnamese lady came in our shop with already a bad attitude. She wanted a good deal on a speaker and player. We discussed price. She agreed but with a nasty look on her face. She then was like "how come you don't give Free Speaker Stands? All the other stores give FREE speaker stands. You should too. You're ripping me off if you don't give me FREE speaker stands."

We just had to keep telling her "No. That's only for sale. We already gave you a good price. If you want to purchase Speaker Stands, we can do that at a special price."

Well she starts cursing at us. Saying we're ripping her off. So she left.

What I don't get was an hour later she called back, screaming at us.

It seems like Vietnamese people are the harshest, most awful customers in the world. They have no patience and no understanding of other people's feelings. They just want to hurt you. It's not going to get them anywhere.

Drooling for some NQN

I'm officially about to ransack the city of Houston looking for these delicious treats all because of WALLPAPERS!

These are yummy, yummy wallpapers from NQN Not Quite Nigella.

Anger Management

Today was one of those days that everything pissed me off. I came into the office and the orders that were supposed to be sent out, were not sent out. Orders that we received from Tuesday and Wednesday were all ignored. I felt swamped with work and exhausted with no one to help me out. What upset me the most were the phone calls. I was unindated with calls and yet everyone droned the rings out all day. I kept having to bring the phone to an open person just to get someone to pick the phone up.

I feel like without me working, the business wouldn't run at all. That seriously scares me that no one takes care of duties and that everyone slacks off. And when we were closing up, I was still handling orders and yet still everyone leaves everything to me. At least Kassim closed up the registers for me. Vinh sometimes makes me want to smack him. He's very laid back for a manager that sometimes I think he doesn't want to work at all.

I totally need to calm down. I haven't been this upset in a long time. I wanted to slam doors and stab someone today.

Wed Him Before You Bed Him by Sabrina Jeffries

At eighteen, Charlotte Page made a life-altering mistake. She wronged a man in an impulsive act that she came to deeply regret, though it led her to her present life as Mrs. Charlotte Harris, owner of Mrs. Harris's School for Young Ladies. Unbeknownst to her, that man is now her anonymous benefactor, the mysterious "Cousin Michael." His masquerade began as preparation for a devastating revenge, but became a labor of love. Now Charlotte desperately needs his help. Can he save her from disaster as his real self without revealing the ugly secret behind his charade? Or will the mistakes of both their pasts tear them apart forever?

I'm currently half way reading this novel and I keep thinking David, David, David, you ass, TELL HER!

It's not a mystery who the anonymous benefactor is - Mrs. Jeffries reveals it within the first couple of pages and confirms it in the 2nd chapter. I find David really well liked but I can't help it scream at his "making it more complex than what it actually is" situation. He's got his faults and then he's digging even a bigger hole than he started out with. Charlotte Harris is everything she's been described as - strong will, beautiful, and desirable. It is a good match but I can't help to wanting to nudge these two together already. And I can see the many many obstacles that lay ahead of them.

The future of Charlotte Harris's fi nishing school is in jeopardy when a charming Spaniard -- world-famous magician Diego Montalvo -- arrives to turn the bordering estate into a scandalous pleasure garden. Valiantly ignoring his wicked flirtations, outspoken Lucinda Seton vows to derail his plans and save the school, unaware that Diego's true mission is to spirit the long-lost heiress away to Spain for a handsome reward! But before long Diego's heart is playing tricks on him, and Lucy is falling under the illusionist's spell. How can the Master of Mystery go through with his devilish scheme when all he wants is to make the lovely heiress his own?

I devoured Don't Bargain With the Devil - the 5th book in the School of Heiresses series, which sets up the stage for Wed Him Before You Bed Him. Deigo is HOT and delicious and Lucy just as described, a hoyden. It was a very entertaining read. The mystery of Lucy's birth was convoluted but eventually straightened out. It kept the story going. I always enjoy a Sabrina Jeffries book. I haven't really found a bad one yet. The really funny thing about DBWD was how hard Diego wanted his land back but in the end, he found out that the comforts he was sooo used to was nowhere to be found on his land. It's like me wanting a Starbucks coffee but the closest one is like 20 minutes away.

Family Issues

A friend said, "The older the parent gets, the CRAZIER, they get." I certainly feel that way. My mom has crazy, restrictive norms. Her way of thinking is very outdated and to the point of being strange.

1. No single friend may spend the night in your house.
2. Any female friend, whether single or married, will have sexual urges around your husband.
3. The business is your family. If you want control of your life, take care of the business.

More or less, I understand, men will cheat. So will women. But trust is very important to me. If I don't trust my husband, I wouldn't have married him.

Nalini Singh - Giveaways

Nalini Singh is celebrating the release of her highly anticipated book "Brand By Fire". This novel is about Mercy and Riley two dominant lieutenants to their Changeling groups.

She's given away Hidden Currents by Christine Feehan, Sweet Persuasion by Maya Banks, and Witch Fury by Anya Bast. To ENTER, you just have to answer her daily question at http://nalinisingh.blogspot.com/ and she'll pick a winner. Check back the next day to see if you have won.

I had preordered my copy of "Branded By Fire", so BN said they had shipped it last Wednesday. It should arrive today! YAY! I can't wait.

Smooth Talking Stranger

Lisa Kleypas' Smooth Talking Stranger was a surprise for me. Her third contemporary romance novel featuring Jack Travis was a thrill for me to read. I loved reading about Gage Travis in her first contemp novel, Sugar Daddy, a couple of years back. Blue Eyed Devil, the 2nd book with Haven Travis was good but not as memorable. I was very glad to meet Jack Travis and seen that even though he acted as a playboy in the previous book, he was just trying to find the right woman for him.

Ella Varner is the heroine and she just twists Jack in all different knots. It's good to see someone not falling all over Jack because he's handsome and rich.

Delightful fantasy to read about. Considering I live probably 20 minutes from the book's setting.

In Need of Therapy

I want to go to a shrink. I feel like I need an hour or so to vent my frustrations. Because my husband is not a very good "therapist" (listener).

I thought a husband will listen and help solve my issues. But no, my husband does not have the knack for that. He just lets shit pile on and on until I am way too stressed.

I need to refocus and gain my balance back. I cannot plan my business actions like I used to. It has taken me so long to do just one single task on my To Do List that it's starting to scare me. I'm not in a rut. Alright, alright. I'm in a rut.

Managing business rut.

But I know the root of all my problems. My crazy mother.

Treadmill Determination

I was planning to name this entry "Treadmill ACTION" but I thought Determination was a better word. Determination all in all motivates me to ACT. I hate exercising... well who doesn't but, it is sooo good for me. It's hard to make excuses.

It has been 4-5 months since I stepped on a treadmill. That last time was a week before a wedding in January. I had to fit my dress. Unfortunately, by the time the wedding rolled by, I could barely fit. So after a 20 minute treadmill workout, I was exhausted. My body was achy, sweaty, and I felt like crap.

My sides hurt, my back and shoulders felt like it was in tatters... like someone shredded my tendons and ligaments and pulled my limbs from its sockets. 20 minutes and yet my entire being was about to shut down.

I drowned myself in waterto hydrate myself. The aches subsided and by the end of the day I was myself again. I feel better after the workout. I think I'm at a stage in my life where I can make free time for myself.

The baby is getting older. She's more independent. Later she'll be in pre school most of the day. I need to start a tight schedule. I really awful with schedules. I want to fit in a couple of different classes, such as Spanish classes, maybe MBA classes, and even hiphop dance classes. Maybe I'll pick up Violin lessons again.

Boa - Eien "Eternity"

EIEN ” Eternity “ - BoA

Translation:

I’m certain that my fingers were made

for touching your cheek

for touching your cheek

I’m certain that the shining moon is there

for me and you to look at it

it was only for me and you to look at it

whenever i felt down

you were always there by my side

you always smile for me

but now you are gone

from the deepest part of my hands

my sadness pours out in large drops, MY LOVE

in this town, Tonight

I think I’m the one who is crying all the time

Because you loved me

I am who I am now

the time that’s carried by the wind

it brings back the eternity of that day

Bye bye bye

Why did you say bye bye

why did you say bye bye

At that time, about that song we always listen to

it came on while we were standing at the farther corner

and we shared our phones together

and then suddenly you pull away

and the phone comes out of my ear

and I pretend to get mad

our eyes eyes would meet suddenly

our lips would press together

you said that you will always protect me

I try to reach up the navy blue sky

I feel like my heart is about to explode

Just hold me, one more time

If I could have been honest with you

This never would have happened

When i wake up, everything will be a dream

And then you will say bye bye bye

why did you say bye bye

why did you say bye bye

I was looking destructed at the people on the street

while walking with you, the roads with green trees

you told me, make pasta for me next time

and that you will always protect me… but

from the deepest part of my hands

my sadness pours out in large drops, MY LOVE

in this town, Tonight

I think I’m the one who is crying all the time

Because you loved me

I am who I am now

the time that’s carried by the wind

it brings back the eternity of that day

I try to reach up the navy blue sky

I feel like my heart is about to explode

Just hold me, one more time

If I could have been honest with you

This never would have happened

When i wake up, everything will be a dream

And then you will say bye bye bye

why did you say bye bye

why did you say bye bye

bye bye bye

why did you say bye bye

why did you say bye bye

Romanji:

Watashi no yubi wa kitto

kimi no hoho ni sotto

fureru tame dake ni atte

fureru tame dake ni atte

kagayaku tsuki wa kitto

kimi to isshoni zutto

miageru tame dake ni atte

miageru tame daki ni attano

kujikesou na toki ni itsumo tonari ni ite

waratte kureta kimi wa mou inai nda

poroporo te no hira kara koboreru kanashimi My Love

konya kono machi de tabun watashi ga ichiban naiteiru

kimi ni aisareta kara watashi wa watashi ni nareta

toki wo hakobu kaze yo douka ano hi no eien wo kaeshite

Bye Bye Bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Ano koro futari itsumo kiiteta kyoku ga

futo machikado ni nagareteru

iyafon katahou zutsu de

kimi ga totsuzen tsuyoku hipparu kara ne

chotto mimi kara hazurechatte

watashi ga okoru to fuzakete

fui ni kimi to me ga atte kuchibiru wo kasaneta

zutto watashi wo mamoru tte itta noni

Neibii buruu no sora sotto te wo nobashite miru

harisakersou na mune mou ichido tada dakishimete

ano toki sunao ni nareba konna koto ni naranakatta

mezametara subete ga yume de atteyo

soshite mata fuzakete

Bye Bye Bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Michi iku hito wo bonyari miteita

kimi to aruita puratanasu namiki

kondo pasuta tsukutte tte

rainenn ryokou shiyou tte

zutto watashi wo mamoru tte itta noni

poroporo te no hira kara koboreru kanashimi My Love

konya kono machi de tabun watashi ga ichiban naiteiru

kimi ni aisareta kara watashi wa watashi ni nareta

toki wo hakobu kaze yo douka ano hi no eien wo

Neibii buruu no sora sotto te wo nobashite miru

harisakersou na mune mou ichido tada dakishimete

ano toki sunao ni nareba konna koto ni naranakatta

mezametara subete ga yume de atteyo

soshite mata fuzakete

Bye Bye Bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Bye Bye Bye

Why did you say bye bye bye

Why did you say bye bye bye


credit One Single Tear

Printplace.com - Yes or No?

Printplace.com is located in Arlington, TX and offers catalog, brochure, business cards and so much more printing options, it's unbelievable. Amazingly, their prices are beyond comparison with the other online print companies.

Last year was the first time I've heard of printplace.com. I was looking for a place to print short run business cards but didn't want to pay an arm and a leg. I found printplace.com also printed catalogs which I also needed.

But after hearing really bad reviews about Printplace.com I decided to use my old printer who was more reliable. I just didn't want to deal with a horrible print job.

A couple of months later, around November 2008, I was looking to make door hangers for an event I was planning. Printplace.com once came up with great prices that I couldn't pass up the offer. I also found an online coupon for 20% off my print purchase of any amount!

Totally good deal. The door hangers were amazing! I also used the 20% off to send out a brochure of our black friday deals and our Black Friday event was also a success.

This year I decided to give Printplace.com another job order. 2 print catalogs and they exceeded my expectations.

Compare these prices:

Old Printing Co Printplace.com
1,000 catalogs $2,300 + shipping $1,900 with shipping and tax
2,000 catalogs $2,900 + shipping $2,400 with shipping and tax
3,000 catalogs $3,300 + shipping $2,900 with shipping and tax

We're in Houston, TX so we had to pay tax but it's still cheaper.

We're thinking of other business opportunities that we could use printplace.com. I love that everything is received Next Day just because we're in Texas. I wish they would have more promotion codes. I can't find any more of those codes.

Rattan Has Done It Again

I went to Rattan Bistro on Wednesday night with my husband and Megan. I was all ready planning to order my usual Pork Shanks with Spinach Mashed Potatoes and Tempura apple. Our waitress Vy recommended Filet Mignon and Shrimp with mashed Sweet Potatoes. I was like humm sounds good and gave it a try.

Wow, I was blown away. I loved everything about it.

First of all, I was stunned to see it. The meal was brought out with a white china plate on a metal stand that has a rounded arm with a hanging skewer. The skewer had 3 milet mignon and 3 jumbo shrimp. On the china plate, there was the mashed sweet potato, grilled mushrooms, bell peppers and eggplant.

The different textures and flavors were amazing. I loved the whole. I love it so much, I'm going back only 2 days later for the same meal. Glad Rattan is doing specials. It keeps me from eating the same ol same ol stuff. I always try to find something interesting.

Free Books - Sponsership by Sony

Wow, I found this out through Dear Author and it was awesome!

Sony is teaming up with Google Books to bring you 500,000 ebooks for free! You can download to your computer or to your Sony Reader.

All you have to do is download the software, register, and find what you what to READ!

Let me see what I can find that I like:

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

I also found Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine archives and The New Yorker on there.

Interesting. I already downloaded Pride and Prejudice - a classic that I can't wait to reread.

Story In My Head

This monologue hit me fast. I had to write it quickly.

Life can change in a blink of an eye. Minor decisions can bring big changes. One word and a whole story can change. And life as we know will never be the same.

I believe things happen for a reason. Just probably not the reason I wanted. That's probably why life is not fair. It doesn't take sides.

I never met anyone like her. She was the best thing that happened to me. ::chuckling:: She was also the worst thing that happened to me. She can be sweet and funny. She can be stubborn and muleheaded. I can always see her pure soul shining out of her eyes. I would never forget her laugh, a sound full of pranks and love.

I love her. I never loved anything before. Not like this. She never heard it from my own mouth. But I think she knew how I felt.

I never got a chance to tell her either. That's what I regret the most. When I found out how I felt, it was too late. Too damn late.

I thought it was too late.

So I stand here today declaring my love for her. Hopefully she'll know it's never too late.
________________________________________________________________
And so the story begins: 3 Months earlier

"What are you doing?"

I slightly turned from my kneeling position to see the brunette an inch away from my ear. A nosy client. Great. "I'm putting together the lens for this camera and also attaching a flash. This area is a little lacking in light. If you want a good shot, I need these to make the picture work."

"Geez, a little touchy. I meant what are you thinking about? You had a weird crinkle in your forehead and your eyes went a bit wild for a moment. It was not a look of someone thinking about light and whatever other stuff goes into photography."

"Look if you want this scenery, ...."

"The agency said that you did the shoots for National Geographic for years. And that you just recovered from an injury. Did you hurt yourself on an expedition?"

"... You are.... who told ... look can we just get on with this? I have another appointment in 2 hours."

"No you don't. I asked Bradford and he said that this is basically your first shoot since the 'hush hush' accident."

Bradford. He is going to die a slow death. And so soon after his wife gave birth. A pity.

"Whatever lady. Let's just get a move on."

"Not lady. I have a name. It's Sunny."

__________________________________________

What do you think so far?

Strengthening My Buying Power

Diane Von Furstenburg Dress

In business school, I was told that by stengthening a company's buying power, you should be able to reap in better returns. In a way, that's what I want to do. But in a totally different market.

SHOPPING.

I have an urge to shop. And by strengthening my guts to just buy the stuff I want, I'll be able to reap in the valuable items I want. On the other hand, that means I have to work my butt off to pay off the credit card. I'm not looking forward to that though.

Shopping Junkie

I feel like I'm going through withdrawal of a drug. I'm frenetic, snappy, cranking, and jittery. All the makings of a junkie. But it's not for drugs. It's for shopping.

It's been a while since I shopped. For clothes, jewelry, shoes, or purses. I have been just working, taking care of Megan, and working!

All of a sudden, it hit me - this shopping frenzy - this urge to do some damage to my credit card. And the idea that I might be sinking a whole in my credit card isn't even phasing me. Something is really wrong with me!

Parenting Cartoons

I have been receiving emails from babycenter.com since I became pregnant. I love the info they send to me week by week through my pregnancy. And I especially love it when they didn't abandon me when I gave birth. Babycenter.com kept me informed as a new parent week by week of my child's growth. It helped me keep track of Megan's development and even sometimes helped me resolve issues and even reasserted my parenting skills.

Like any new parent, I do not know half the time what the hell I'm doing.

But the thing I love about babycenter.com is their cartoons. I always am on the lookout for their funny as heck cartoon which is at the bottom of the emails every other week. I found out that the artist is Cathy Thorne of http://everydaypeoplecartoons.com/

One of my favorites. I totally remember how I felt around that time. It was exhausting. I was sleep deprived because I was so big. Walking hurt, actually everything hurt. The aches and pains... don't get me talking about the labor pains...

And now I have been asking this question a lot lately. She's been a bad bad little girl and she can't even talk yet!

We are not as young as we used to be

I'm only 27, but on days like this, I feel like I'm 75 or older. My back was achy when I woke up this morning. It wasn't painful just achy and sore even though I haven't exercised or lifted anything. Well except my baby but she shouldn't make me sore. Maybe I slept too much. But then why was I still tired this morning.

Lately, my feet is tingly when I first get up. It's like my feet fell asleep while I was sleeping, but shouldn't that make my feet numb immediately? What is going on with my body?

I should probably exercise more. But there is not enough time in the day for me to fit in a workout much less drive to the gym. Yes, the gym is about 10 minutes away but it's still not close enough for me. I have the treadmill at home but not the weights or the resistance equipment.

I need to cut work short and go exercise more often. I'm starting to feel really stressed. My neck is constantly tense. The muscle there in my neck is sooo knotty.

Yup 75 year old.

Vision in White by Nora Roberts

I can't wait for this book to be out. It's expected to be released on April 28 and will be the first book in the Bride Quartet series.

Excerpt at mylifetime.com
http://www.mylifetime.com/on-tv/movies/nora-roberts/vision-in-white-excerpt

Nothing Should Surprise Me

Hehe. I'm writing this blog after I found harden sauce in my hair. It had clumped around the bottom of my hair in this hard mass. I had to pick at it and realized it was some sauce substance from my baby's food. She had went wild tonight, dumping everything on her high chair. Thank goodness it was only in the tray of her high chair.

I think I would cry if I had to mop the floor tonight.

Somehow her tossing and flinging sauce at me, made me laugh. I was happy that she was so carefree and excited. I guess that's just her being young. And within a year, two, even 18, I might never ever see that side of her again. I just want to enjoy it for as long as I can.

She also take in delight at HI-5 series that a friend of my parents sent to us. She loves the colors, the acting and the music. I couldn't tear her away from it. It got so good for her that while she bounced and jiggled to the music, I ate standing up. Stuffing my face, quick just to keep an eye on her. My husband kinda stood aghast at seeing supermom in action.

So nothing should surprise me to find sauce in my hair or that I who usually eat savoringly will stuff her face.

On The Cheap Side

I am not a frugal person. I love to shop and find something I would like. But sometimes, I find something I like but I wouldn't even wear it. Don't know why. I have tons of clothes with tags.

At least, it hasn't gotten so bad lately. But I've been feeling the itch to shop.

Yesterday I bought a purse. I regretted now, because I don't think I need a new purse. I still like my old one.

Why did I buy the new one? It was leather and free Express NEXT DAY shipping.

yeah, really good deal. Should I mention the purse's name is "Pay My Tab." I thought it was funny. fitting really.

So I'm online again. Window shopping through the pages of the internet. Wondering should I buy this pretty ballerina looking dress when I don't have any where to go. No wedding, no party, no business gala...

Sippy Cup Saga - RESOLVED

Oh my lord. Finally Megan is using the sippy cup without problems. It's been 3 days and nights and no complaints. I have fully removed the bottles and they are IN STORAGE!

YAY!

How I did it? I don't know.

Ok so I have an idea how I did it. It took 3 weeks though.

Step 1: remove the bottles from sight.

Step 2: Give only sippy cup.

Step 3: After tantrums and crying, I gave up and handed her the bottle.

Step 4: Try sippy cup tomorrow. Add something to that milk. Use something she likes. I used mashed avocado. She loves avocado. Let her see you add that item.

Step 5: Repeat Step 1-4. Add less of "GOODIE" to milk each time.

Step 6: Voila! Hand her the sippy cup without a blink or nervousness. She took it without even a tear.

Hang in there moms. You can sippy cup train 'em.

Mommy Cards Again

I really like this purple color so I decided to do something with it.

B is for Bistro

I love to eat out. But when a restaurant has the word BISTRO tacked on, I'm more likely to eat there more than once a week. I don't know why. It is just the way it is.

In Houston, I love Rattan Pan Asian Bistro. It is a new restaurant, opened about 1 1/2 years ago. Their menu is really diverse from Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai food.

If you want Sushi, they got sushi. Their Tempura shrimp is to die for. I always get their Pork Shanks. The pork is soo tender and moist, followed by buttered spinach mashed potatoes. And for a special kick, a spicy apple chutney is included to bring all the flavors together. Really different.

Rattanbistro.com is their website. Visit it!

Another place that I adore is Cheesecake Bistro in New Orleans, LA. My hometown, so of course, Cheesecake Bistro is my place for hometown cooking. Authentic Nawlins dishes with Cajun seasoning. I'm salivating just thinking of the food. When I lived there, I ordered to go nightly from there.

Best spinach and artichoke dip and the best Stacked Eggplant Napoleon. Oh yeah. Their website is: http://www.copelandscheesecakebistro.com/menu.html#bistrosignature

Diving for Business

Yesterday at work, there was a commotion that I should have been able to take care. It was my day off so no one bothered to call me. Today when I came in, was blown away by how mere hours could change my life and everyone's life around.

I guess in today's economy,people think you have to be cutthroat and malicious to survive. But I beg to differ. I think by keeping promises and building clientelle is the key to everything. Service matters especially in technology based companies.

One of our suppliers handed us the pink slip. They still want us to buy from them but they will be taking over our clients directly. We have been servicing these clients for over 20 years and now boom, no more.

Hopefully, we can make some changes that will indeed get our customers back.

Mommy Cards Design 3

Mommy Cards Design 2

I'm on a roll! Here are some new designs:

Mommy's Card Design 1

How do you like these designs?

Stupid Embarrassing Moment

I went to a playdate at a restaurant. This mexican restaurant is cozy with a sand area for kids to play. I wanted Megan to just have fun, but she ended up HATING sand. She squealed, eeked, and was about to throw a tantrum until I removed her from the sand.

I just ordered her some food, chit chatting with other moms, when Megan began to wail. She was sleepy and tired, and probably bored. All the other kids were playing in the sand. She was stuck in a chair. She was torn between sand or play. She chosed the former - less dirty.

I said my goodbyes and hauled Megan in the car. Strapped her in her car seat and jetted home. As soon as I got home, my head of pounding. I was exhausted too.

Then I remembered, I LEFT WITHOUT PAYING!

The mortification that the other moms and dads had to pay for me, was really overwhelming. I wanted to hide forever and never show my face again.

I was like what am I going to do!?

So I went to the meetup site and posted a message on the forum saying how sorry i was and I was going to pay whoever paid back. Thankfully, they were okay with that. 1 really nice mom paid and I sent her the payment!

I guess I need to instill some confidence at the next outting. Or pay first.

Confessions of a Working Mom

I love these playgroups that I go to. Megan loves 'em. It seems like the kid interactions that she gets, makes her learn new things, fast. I feel like by letting her play with other kids, she's opening up doors and she's growing right before my eyes.

The only thing is most of these playgroups are for Stay At Home Moms (SAHM). And I got burned a few times when these SAHM want to keep to their SAHM groups. What difference does it make if I go to work? I still want my baby to have all the best things she can get, just like any SAHM.

I had met a really nice mom "Michelle" with her baby "Gabby". Megan and Gabby are the same age and were already hugging and holding hands. Michelle and I were chatting and just hanging out. About an 1 later, both babies were tired. I don't blame them. I was tired just chaperoning them. I'm leaving with Megan, and I handed Michelle my business card with email and phone. I told her, "Call me or email me. Let's meet some time and get our kids together." She looked at the card, and I saw the look in her eyes change like "Humm, you work?"

Wow, big difference. It's been 2 months, and I haven't heard from Michelle. So sad. I know it's my business card. Should I make Mommy cards? LOL... I heard of these cards that mom's hand out with their info, just in case people need to contact them.

Goodnight

you look so peaceful
sleeping in your tiny bed

I can't believe you're with me
a part of me forever

rosy cheeks, little toes & finger
curling up against your blankie

you snuggle against your teddy
not even a peep can wake you

always I want to be with you
watching you sleep in the dark

I am comforted by your nearness
looking out for your at all times

Can't wait until you wake
and see that smile of yours

Brighten eyes, musical laugh
I can see how fast you grow up.

Goodnight baby, sleep tight
mommy's here for you all right.

Katie Holmes - Glamour Shoot

Isn't this a beautiful picture of her? I love her tossled hair and her makeup is perfect.

This picture will be Glamour's 70th Anniversary issue.

In this issue, she talks candidly about her relationship with Tom, her career, and being a famous mother.

I looked at the other pictures from the photo shoot and most showed a very slim Katie Holmes. She looks worn out, unlike this picture to the left.

I remember her as Joey from Dawson's Creek. Don't we all wish we can back to the old days?

Playing Hookie

I am supposed to be at work today, but decided to stay at home. To do what? NOTHING.

yup, nada, zilch, not a thing.

Actually I have a newsletter, catalog, and a brochure to be working on but I'm blogging. I can't make myself work or go to work for that matter. Don't know what came over me. I didn't even nap and I haven't eaten a thing today. I feel like I'm back in college.

Skulls and Tattos for a Baby

At first look, this Mei Tai Baby Carrier is SOOOO CUTE!!! I immediately wanted one and loved the idea that it would be able to handle my already 24 lbs baby.

But at closer look, the carrier had SKULLS on it. While some might think it's alright, I'd rather purchase something for my baby that's less frightening. At oompa.com they also had a Tattoo one where there's a sword piercing through a skull.

I don't like it. I might buy the more traditional Floral and Peacock designs (though I don't like the colors on those).

Are you moms okay with Skulls and Tats on designer wear for your baby?

Too Much On My Mind

It is bedtime and I'm still awake. This has been happening more and more lately. I am so tired, my eyes are drooping. But my brain is still active. It's churning and things keep popping up that I have to do.

1. Find stupid font that can be embedded into Adobe Indesign and exported to a PDF.
Sounds harder than it actually is. I have been searching for so called font for the past 24 hours.

2. Sippy Cup mess continues. Baby refuses any sight of a sippy cup with milk. Will take sippy ONLY for juice and water.

3. Get MBA? Where the hell did that come from? Should I be going to school at all?

4. Work on baby#2.
Yeah right, when baby#1 is a handful already. I must be insane. But maybe I am insane, cuz I do want a baby #2.

5. Need to finish catalog drafts for print production. Way behind.

6. Need to submit data for April's Newsletter.

7. Taxes

8. Schedule flight and hotel for Los Angeles product meeting.

9. Design a blog layout. I feel creative lately.

10. Stories. Mad mad stories of Gracie and Nick. They want their romance story told.

Why Are You Breaking Everything?

"Why are you breaking everything?" - That's what my husband said to our baby daughter, 14 months.

She was reaching up trying to turn the tuner dial of his stereo. He had to grab her away while she was happily trying to break off the switch.

Nice. That's my baby!

Sweet Baby Smell

My baby was sleeping so peacefully last night. I was giddy that she was sleeping well. Occassionally there are nights when she would fight sleep while sleeping. She would kick her legs and fling her arms from side to side. I don't know what she's doing, fighting in her sleep, but it sure doesn't make me sleep easier. Those nights are the toughest because I would be vigilant throughout the night. I wouldn't get any sleep because the slightest peep out of her, would make me pop from bed to take care of her. She never needs me, but I just worry.

Last night was a good night. I saw her clutching her blankie, sleeping on her side, breathing in and out. That was peace to me.

I gave her a kiss on her cheek and I just had to sniff her. And yes, that sweet baby smell was still on her. It's been there since she was born. The first time I held her in my arms, and I thought "She smells so good. I don't want to let her go."

So she continued to sleep. And I dreamt of her toothy smile when I woke up. I wasn't disappointed.

"The Hills" on MTV

The Hills Season 5 Returns This Spring!!

I am not a big fan of The Hills, but I like Lauren Conrad. She's likable. I just like the gossip on the show. I don't know how much of The Hills is scripted or real, but whenever I catch it, I get sucked into the story.

Well on March 30, 2009, Season 5 of The Hills starts. I was this trailer and even though I don't watch the show, I felt emotional to Lauren and Heidi hopefully renewed friendship from what the trailer presented.

Sleeplessness

Last night was one night that I thought I would sleep as well as the baby. As it turns, this was not the case. I could not fall asleep at all. My mind was still active even though my eyes were weary. I kept twisting and turning so much I woke the baby up.

Megan sleeps with me. I love to co-sleep because it usually helps me sleep better. When she slept in her crib I would wake numerous amount of time just checking up on her. I fear that she's too cold, or too hot, suffocating from her blankie, or just not comfortable. A peep out of her during the night would make me shoot off the bed to check on her. I was terribly sleep deprived during those nights. It got better, yes.

Then it got worse. She began to teethe. She would have slight fevers in the middle of the night. She would wake up in terror, maybe in pain. I do not know. I just know that I felt better and I slept better when she was in our bed.

Last night was the opposite. I woke her up. She began to kick and squirm, irritated that I woke her. Her sleep was disturbed. So the rest of the night, each time I would slightly fall asleep, she did something to disrupt my sleep. I eventually was not able to sleep until 3 or 4 am.

I woke up feeling awful... and sick. I guess somehow during the night I caught a cold.

My Poetry

I began writing poetry at 15. I was such an awkward teenager. Most of the time I was depressed and stressed. Even though I had a loving family, my parents were strict. I couldn't get a B in my classes. I had to be the best at everything. I was the daughter and the son they never had. I had to live up to the family name and bring all the pride home.

Poetry became my safe haven. Without it, I think I wouldn't be here today. It really cleared my brain from all the cluttered mess.

At 15, one poem I wrote was for content. It went on to win The Best in the City Award at the 10th grade level. Here are others I have written so far (more will be coming soon).

Disturbed
Whispers In The Wind
Little Pieces
Too Good
American Dream

I Lost My Way
I saw you one day
Walking with a friend
One look and I knew
We’d be together someday
You’re so right for me,
I hope you know,
But then I lost my way.

I had your heart
I saw that in your eyes.
I became your entire life
Wrapped yourself around me,
And so happy were we.
But I lost my way.

Along with your heart,
I also took your glee.
I broke your world
Into sad little pieces.
I’m sorry honey,
We’re not meant to be.
I lost my way,
My way to your heart.

I just fell out of love…
I’m so sorry.

Work In Progress

Many of my close friends do not know this about me: My dream is to be a writer... a romance writer.

I love to read and write. But my writings are more for business than pleasure. I have started several novels. But I have never completed any of them. Mostly these stories and these characters just rotate in my head, waiting for me to do SOMETHING! I have half heartedly pursued this dream.

I will try to use this blog as an outlet for that writing process. You will probably see many "beginnings" and never an end. Hopefully someday, I will be able to complete one novel or all.

Please note that these are romances so there will be adult content.

IF YOU ARE UNDER 18 PLEASE HAVE PARENTAL PERMISSION.

Only In My Dreams

untitled

Trouble

Customer Horror Stories

Most of our customers are really awesome people. But we get those customers who are just out of their minds.

Most Vietnamese customers are just really bad consumers. Many come to our store thinking we mark everything expensive and give huge discounts. We do not do that. They are always demanding for a 50% discount and NO TAX. I do not understand the no tax. Everyone has to pay tax. We get yelled at by Vietnamese consumers all the time, saying that are prices are too high. If they are too high, how come we're getting business. The only people who complain are Vietnamese people who just come in to attack us. They throw tantrums and whine and whine about prices. It's really sad to watch.

We had one guy insult us working women saying, "Don't talk to those girls. They don't know anything." The strange thing was he was the one who didn't know anything. He wanted to purchase this mixer with a built in amplifier. He asked me "How many watts does this unit have?" I told him, "It is only a mixer, so it does not produce any wattage." He told me, "No, I had one like this. It was also an amplifier." I had to show him on the box that the unit said "MIXER." Whatever dude.

We totally have Asians think that a mixer will make them automatically sound better. One time, this Vietnamese girl was like, "See. This mixer is broken. It doesn't make me sound better." She's singing on the mixer and we tell her you have to create your own sound. "In order to use the mixer properly, you need to adjust the echo, and other effects on this mixer, to fill in with your voice. You can't just plug and play. And each song is a different tune that you would adjust to fit accordingly. " She refused to believe that she had to sing well in order to sound good.

About 80% of Vietnamese people do not treat others how they are treated. I think they just shop to attack the business. We get a good percentage of machine illerate Vietnamese customers. They don't do product research before buying. They do not know the market prices nor do they know what the product they need to get. They all say "We're engineers. We know what we're doing. My son is a doctor. We're educated. We do not need help from you. We know more than you will ever know." That attitude and ego is such a nightmare.

We do not want your business if you keep acting so high handedly.

My Dream Home

I have a lovely house. It's a two story with my very own library. My husband has his flat screened TV living room, that is easily accessible to a nice sized kitchen. 2 bedrooms and a study finalizes the rest of the house.

But strangely, it's not my dream home. I think my dream home got inspired by a Premier Homes magazine, and now that house is stuck in my mind. I don't think I'll ever own a house like that. It's just too oppulent and showy. I'm just a suburban working mom.

Here are the pictures from my dream home from Premier Homes magazine:

Sippy Cup Saga Part 3

Okay, Megan is finally getting the hang of the sippy cup. She drinks about 5 oz of milk today out of her sippy cup. Her final feeding before bedtime is still a bottle. However, I'm optimistic, she'll stop and start using the sippy cup for this last feeding soon.

I feel a bunch of stress just lifted off my shoulders. It was such a horrible task. Megan kept crying the demanding the bottle throughout the day. But I sucked it up and figured I have to be MOM. She can't control me or she'll walk all over me.

Each morning, she gets a sippy cup of milk and breakfast. I keep offering that same sippy cup every hour. I figure she'll have to get used to this sippy cup.

Sippy Cup Saga Continues

Currently Megan can drink from a sippy cup for water and juice, but NO MILK. She refuses to drink her milk out of a sippy cup. She actually like the First Years Take and Toss Cups, as shown left.

I tried many things today:

Getting her to drink from a cup only (no sippy). She actually liked that. But I didn't. It was way too messy. It spilled all over her. She liked it because she got to play with the mess.

I also tried using a straw. Didn't work because she couldn't figure how to suck from the straw.

Then I took her bottle without the nipple top part, and tried to show her how to drink like a cup and with a straw. No to both tries.

Tonight before bed, she usually takes a bottle of 8 oz. But tonight, I gave her a sippy and she refused it. So she went to bed without anything to drink. Hopefully she'll sleep well.

So tomorrow, I will try the milk with cereal deal.

Sippy Cup Dilemma

Wow. Just when I thought troubles were over, we're having sippy cup problems. She is drinking normally from a sippy cup for just water and juice. But she refuses to drink milk out of a sippy. I'm at my wits end.

I googled answers and found this:

1. Use a cup. Try with and without a straw.

2. Give milk in a bowl with cereal. Get baby to sip from bowl.

3. Use milk in something else, like a smoothie.

I made an avocado shake today using 2 oz of milk. Spoon fed her, and she liked it. I will try the other methods and see which works. Wish me luck!

Parenting Questions?

I remember the first week after my baby was born. I was stressed and sleep deprived. Megan was not breastfeeding well. She seemed always hungry. I didn't know enough about a baby to begin with. I felt like I was a horrible mom. "How could I keep raising a child when I don't know what to do?"

I mean, "Wasn't I supposed to know intrinsically?"

With the help of http://answers.yahoo.com/, saved my sanity. I would just search for answers. "How much is a my week old baby supposed to drink? How do you wash her? What am I supposed to do when she..." The most important thing I found was that many moms out there were in the same position as I was. They were having doubts but with http://answers.yahoo.com/ we found the answers we needed.

My current question was how much whole milk should my baby drink?

My doctor said "12oz to 15oz" a day. Megan was drinking on average 28oz a day. I found out that this was bad. Cow's milk contains a lot of calcium which could cause dental problems later on and even digestive problems.

So just in the past two days, I've but back 2 feedings. She seems to be handling it just fine. Amazing! I thought she would cry and starve.

I guess that means she's eating enough.

Guilt Trips = Road of Pain

I was raised in a loving family. I just didn't get the kind of love I wanted. The more I pleased my parents the harder they were on me. If I gotten an A in school, it was not "Good Job!" But it was "Why didn't you get an A+?" I had once gotten a B in English in 10th grade. My father enrolled me in Sylvan Learning Center.

I always wanted a praise from them, but I never really gotten that. When I had gotten into New York University, they had bribed me to stay at home. When I had gotten a job, they bribed me into working at their business.

It wasn't bribing. It was more like guilt trips.

Somehow, I am still falling for those guilt trips. The things I wanted to do, I couldn't do without a guilt trip. When can I ever move on?

Tonight wasn't an example of a guilt trip. But it hurt me nonetheless. Parenting is not easy. But they shower a love for my baby, than I had ever seen. I never gotten that attention.

I want reassurance that I'm raising my baby the right way. When my mom starts to say, Megan didn't drink enough, I responded "The pediatrician said only 12oz to 15oz a day." My parents would constantly respond that I was raised differently and grew up fine.

I really didn't like how I was raised in the first place. I was on formula until I was 3. I had cavities with 6 silver teeth at the age of 4. I didn't have a drop of water as a child. I drank Seven Up since I was a baby. All because my parents "raised" me that way.

My beliefs are clashing with their methods. My mom got fed up at my "wishes" and said that I should handle it fine, that she will no longer interfere.

Why does it always seem to be a threat that comes out of my mom's mouth?

All About Sassy - That's Me!

I grew up knowing I wanted to be a business owner. It was in my blood since I was born. I knew I was going to be the best damn student in my class. I knew I would graduate from college and do something I have always dreamed about. Mostly, all my dreams came true. I even met the guy of my dreams.

The only thing I never planned (and had gotten) was my baby girl, Megan. Yeah, she was a surprise. I had thought to put off parenthood for another two to three years. I was enjoying my quiet time with my husband. I love the independence of just staying out till the wee morning. I love to just go here and there without any objections.

With a baby, my life quickly took off at a speeding pace. No longer was I cruising on the side roads looking at the scenery. I was now heading probably break neck speed along 10 lanes of traffic without any idea where I'm going. I was always afraid of the police, but now I wish a cop would pull me over and tell me to slow down.

My life is never going to be the same.

BOA - English Debut Album

Sushi Hana - Richmond, TX

I went to Sushi Hana about 4 nights ago. It was the best Sushi I've had in a LOOONNGG time. It was sooo delish that I'm still craving for the Pokemon Roll. When I read the description of the roll, I was intrigued. My friend had the VIP roll and that was very good also.

Pokemon roll is a crab, avocado with cucumber center and is topped with a fresh snow crab salad. Yummy! I love that it was fresh and the seafood wasn't dry or hard.

The VIP roll was tempura shrimp, asparagus, cream cheese, topped with crab.

Can't wait to go back. I'm dreaming of eating sushi right now.

We also had the beef asparagus rolls and gyoza as appetizers. Their miso soup is good too.

My experience here was great. They just opened about 3-4 weeks ago near the Belle Terre subdivision. The service was adequate, attentive and average. It looks really fancy in an Italian fine dining way. I kept thinking of Azzarelli's when I was there.

The only complaint that I have is when they brought out a dish to the booth behind us. Apparently it was a sizzling plate, but it was emitting so much smoke, our table couldn't breathe! Our whole booth had a haze of smoke. We were so afraid that the smoke would set off the sprinkler system that was right on top of us!

I think they should take that dish off the menu or they should heat the sizzling plate so much to cause that much smoke.

Sushi Hana Fusion Cuisine
5610 W Grand Pkwy S #300
Richmond TX 77406
281.239.8626

Chicken with Peas and Mushrooms

This is a quick Rachael Ray recipe. I love it! It's so easy to make and it's so good.

SERVES 4
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 45 min

You need:
8 chicken thighs
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper
8 ounces mushrooms, halved
1 onion, coarsely chopped
One 10-ounce package frozen peas

1. Position a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 400°. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, the thyme and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper; roast for 20 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the mushrooms, onion, peas and the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Add the vegetables to the chicken and cook for 25 minutes more.

ABDC - Quest Crew

I love the Quest Crew on the 3rd season of American's Best Dance Crew. They are hillarious and very good.

Check them out from this video challenge of Britney Spears "Toxic".

When You're On The Run, Dinner's Last On Your Mind

I work 6 days a week. I take care of my 13 month old baby. I take care of my husband. I cook and I clean. My husband helps me around the house, but of course he can't read my mind, like "put laundry in washer."

After a long day at work, the last thing I want to think of is dinner. I dislike coming home without knowing what to eat. But that happens a lot. When i don't know what's for dinner, the family usually heads out to a restaurant. So It's like $30 or more dollars for dinner. Or when I don't know what's for dinner, I would get home and figure out what we all want. What can my husband eat, can my baby eat along, me - I'm easy, I'll eat anything.

Sometimes the food is easy to make. Sometimes I lack things in the kitchen and then I would search for another recipe. Cooking - I love it and I hate it!

But for the past 2 months, I have been going to Super Suppers (http://www.supersuppers.com/). They have locations all over the U.S. They make your meals for you. All you do is head out to a storefront 1 time a week, and pick up all your meals. As many as you want.

A regular sized meal equals 3 servings which is just enough for me, my husband to share and for our baby to mooch. A regular size is $12.00 at my location. The size also comes in a full size which is equal to 4-6 servings and is $24.00. That's amazing! 1 serving - $3-$4! That's all.

It's packaged in zip lock bags or aluminum trays for easy baking. Most meals take about 15-20 minutes to make. Their menus change each month also. So your family won't be forced to eat the same old things over and over again.

Last night we had Swedish meatballs with noodles and it was DELISH! I even had a bit left over for this morning's breakfast. They make all their selections without any preservatives. I love how my family is eating healthy.

Visit your local Super Suppers or something like that. In the Houston area we also have Chef For You and several more. Google Personal Chefs in Houston or wherever you're located.

They have great meals and it saves you time. Us working moms need more time for family.

Sale? I'm There

I always love a good sale, especially for good quality couture stuff. Shopbop.com is a great place to get the name brand clothing. But sometimes they have really great sales.

I love this "Dolman cardigan" or maybe it's just the model wears it well. The best part is that this once $125.00 cardigan is now only $37.50.

Unfortunately I found it too late and it only has a Large. Sometimes size won't stop me from getting it but I don't have the habit of picking anything that is ON SALE. Anymore.

I've made those mistakes before.

::sigh:: I'll find something else though.

TBR Pile

Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas
In Stores Date: March 31, 2009


Synopsis
Jack Travis leads the uncomplicated life of a millionaire Texas playboy. He makes no commitments, he loves many women, he lives for pleasure. But no one has ever truly touched his heart or soul. Until one day, a woman appears on his doorstep with fury on her face and a baby in her arms. It seems Jack is the father and this woman is the baby's aunt. The real mother abandoned the child to her more responsible sister. And now, Jack is being called upon to take responsibility for the first time in his life.With delicious romantic tension, characters so real they walk onto the page and into your heart, Lisa Kleypas delivers the kind of novel that makes you laugh, love; cry and cheer.

To Romance a Charming Rogue by Nicole Jordan


In Stores Date: February 24, 2009


Synopsis
The bold games of passion play out with delicious consequences in this fourth novel of Nicole Jordan’s seductive new series, The Courtship Wars.Two years ago, lively beauty Eleanor Pierce spied her dashing betrothed, Damon Stafford, Viscount Wrexham, with his former mistress and furiously ended their engagement. Now the charming rake is back in London, meddling in Eleanor’s affairs, bent on thwarting her new suitor. And when Damon’s intoxicating kisses rekindle her deepest longing, Eleanor loses her heart . . . again. But as she has no intention of allowing history to repeat itself, she embarks on a plan of tantalizing seduction, vowing to tame the rogue before she surrenders to his wicked, willful desires.Determined to stop another man from wooing and winning the woman he loves, Damon knows that claiming Eleanor’s heart is all that matters. But this scandalously bold beauty means to beat him at his own game of romance–a game he is ready and willing to lose.




Branded By Fire by Nalini Singh
In Stores Date: July 7, 2009

Read Excerpt here: http://www.nalinisingh.com/branded.html



Warning: It's HOT!

Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich

Synopsis:

Turn on all the lights and check under your bed. Things are about to get spooky in Trenton, New Jersey. According to legend, the Jersey Devil prowls the Pine Barrens and soars above the treetops in the dark of night. As eerie as this might seem, there are things in the Barrens that are even more frightening and dangerous. And there are monkeys. Lots of monkeys. Wulf Grimoire is a world wanderer and an opportunist who can kill without remorse and disappear like smoke. He’s chosen Martin Munch, boy genius, as his new business partner, and he’s chosen the Barrens as his new playground. Munch received his doctorate degree in quantum physics when he was twenty-two. He’s now twenty-four, and while his brain is large, his body hasn’t made it out of the boys’ department at Macy’s. Anyone who says good things come in small packages hasn’t met Munch. Wulf Grimoire is looking for world domination. Martin Munch would be happy if he could just get a woman naked and tied to a tree. Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum has Munch on her most-wanted list for failure to appear in court. Plum is the all-American girl stuck in an uncomfortable job, succeeding on luck and tenacity. Usually she gets her man. This time she gets a monkey. She also gets a big guy named Diesel. Diesel pops in and out of Plum’s life like birthday cake – delicious to look at and taste, not especially healthy as a steady diet, gone by the end of the week if not sooner. He’s an über bounty hunter with special skills when it comes to tracking men and pleasing women. He’s after Grimoire, and now he’s also after Munch. And if truth were told, he wouldn’t mind setting Stephanie Plum in his crosshairs. Diesel and Plum hunt down Munch and Grimoire, following them into the Barrens, surviving cranberry bogs, the Jersey Devil, a hair-raising experience, sand in their underwear, and, of course . . . monkeys.

I'm telling you, I love Stephanie Plum. I especially love the love "rectangle" between Joe, Ranger, Diesel and Stephanie. It makes my heart thump thump like mad! Joe is funny as always. And I am a Cupcake forever. But then there's a part of me that wishes Stephanie would stop being practical and jump at a chance with Ranger. Diesel, now he's just a boy toy on the side for Stephanie. =)

I am kinda in awe that Ranger shows a bit more reaction to Stephanie in Plum Spooky. I think in Fearless Fourteen, many readers felt let down because Ranger just popped in to say "Babe" and popped away for way too many pages in between his scenes. This "in-between-numbers" book was great. Just the right amount of Joe and Ranger. And of these "in-between-numbers" book has to feature Diesel way more.

Ranger showed a bit more affection, comforting Stephanie after getting chased by Wulf. I am intrigued by Wulf. I wonder if he'll appear more often.

The whole bit with Carl the monkey is hillarious! I love monkeys. They are super smart and it is so great to see more of Carl.