WTF?

Why is Denzel trying to hump my arm all the time?

Amsterdam!

Did you know that Amsterdam is the most diverse city in Europe, with over 150 different nationalities? Love it! It was so refreshing to see couples of every ethnic group and sexual orientation living in harmony together. The city is full of super friendly locals, international restaurants and many interesting stores. You can spend an entire day just exploring. And of course there are the museums, the Coffee Shops and the infamous Red Light District....basically, there is something for everyone:) My only complaint was that we couldn't stay longer. I am anxious, to say the least, to return!
In the meantime, G bought these Dutch Clogs to hold me over until we make it back.

Some souvenirs, no matter how cheesy, are worth having.

Biathlon Weltcup

Last Sunday, I went to the Biathlon Weltcup in Ruhpolding.
Skiing and target shooting...uh...interesting sport.
But the scenery was magnificent.

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....


One of G's colleagues sent him this message when Robbie died. G didn't forward the message to me but he told me about it and how it brought him to tears at the office. Well today, he finally sent me the message.

And my heart is aching.

We're still talking about it...

a day later.
A thought provoking storyline combined with Will Smith's irresistible charm and flawless performance make I AM LEGEND so much fun. Check it out.

Think about it...

When the wrong people leave your life,
the wrong things stop happening.

-Anonymous

One of Munich's Best Kept Secrets

Munich is such a cool city. Every time I think I've experienced just about everything it has to offer, I discover yet another surprise. Last weekend, we discovered Arabesk, the first Arabian restaurant to open in Munich, in 1984. We love Arabian cuisine, especially hummus and the flavorful spices they use to season grilled meat and fish. By the way, I have to mention that I have created my own hummus recipe. The ingredients are not very authentic, but it tastes the same and with half the fat. I'll post the recipe soon. Anyway, when you walk in Arabesk, you are overwhelmed by the decor. The walls and ceiling are literally covered with intricate Arabian tiles. It's really one of the most beautiful restaurants I've seen in Munich. Most of the seating accommodates large parties but if you have a party of two, you can reserve a small private booth - super romantic. We chose to sit up front, near the stage because they feature live Bauchtanz, or Belly Dancing. And this Belly Dancer was awesome! I still can't figure out how she can shake her bottom half so fast and keep her top half perfectly still. I have been trying so hard to imitate her moves for G and his only response is shaking his head... The Belly Dancer was also very personable - she picked out guests from the audience to join her on stage. Yes, I was chosen, and yes, I went up on stage and tried to shake my moneymaker and no, I will never post those pictures!

They also offered Schischas or Hookas. Love it! It's so relaxing after a meal. But before the meal, we started with a variety of Mäsä, or appetizers. Everything was dynamite, especially the hummus. For our main courses, G ordered lamb and I ordered fish. His lamb "melted in his mouth". And my fish? Well, at first, when my dish arrived at the table I was a little intimidated. The fish was served whole, with the head on, one eye staring. But our waiter must have seen my reaction because he quickly came over and offered to cut and debone my fish. He delicately deboned my fish, tableside. And it was delicious.

Our experience at Arabesk was an 11 out of 10. Really! The food, decor, atmosphere, service, and entertainment - they were all unique and superb. If you are in Munich, it is a restaurant not to miss.

Creating a Monster

It's official.

L'Osteria is our favorite pizza joint in Munich.

P U

The taste of Seehecht is definitely not worth the smell.

2008!

Happy New Year!
*better late than never;)