If I had some graphic design software (and skills), I'd create an illustration of Whole Foods crushing the Boise Co-op like a bulldozer, because that's what is about to happen. It's not too far away, about a year and half I believe, and Whole Foods will FINALLY be in Boise and give the Co-op a little competition. Currently, the Co-op is one of the only places to buy organic, natural foods, cleaners, etc. Other grocery stores have some organic and/or natural items but the Co-op definitely has the selection.
Shopping exclusively at the Co-op for these types of products wouldn't be a problem but ...
1) Customer service isn't a priority at the Co-op and this is evident on a consistent basis by those who work at the Co-op. The Co-op has some of the crankiest, snobbiest workers on the planet. I used to say it was just part of being a hippy but that's not true. There are lots of hippies that are nice people, and that have expressed displeasure in shopping at the Co-op I might add.
2) The Co-op is expensive. That's generally the case with organic versus commercially grown products but the Co-ops prices are ridiculous. Once a month they send a 10% coupon to their members which is generally when I'll go and buy everything I'd need from the Co-op for that month to help save some dollars. This helps a little bit but it doesn't make up for the price difference between the C0-op and a store like Whole Foods.
3) Parking is weak. It's a good thing the clientele is laid back because I would imagine other lots like the Co-op's have a lot more fights. It's small and always packed. There's generally a line going out to the streets of cars, starting your shopping trip off right. The lot in which Whole Foods will be located is huge. I imagine it to include a nicely sized parking lot, perfect for vehicles larger than a Vespa.
Yes it sucks because the Co-op is local, and it's nice to support local business, but after years of being mistreated by the Co-op, I can't wait for Whole Foods to arrive to Boise. I think many in Boise feel the same way. Boise is a great city with many local businesses that do well. The people in this city like to support local business but it appears the Co-op's hour glass is running out of sand!
Until next time, keep your head up and your stick on the ice!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Friday, December 31, 2010
Singamajigs, Doll Houses and Hockey Sticks
When I was a kid, Christmas was a blast. Getting together with all my cousins, playing, having fun, eating too much junk food; life was good! As I got older it took on a different meaning. I grew out of the whole commercialization of Christmas deal and replaced the excitement of getting gifts with the excitement of being around family and friends. After I got married, my wife introduced me to an even cooler idea - giving gifts to those less privileged. We would pick out gifts for needy children and families in Boise and it'd feel so good to give back to those less fortunate.
Now as a parent, Christmas has taken on a completely different meaning. I'm basically living through my children during Christmas. Their big eyes and excitement is an amazing thing to witness. B was a little sick on Christmas Eve which affected his excitement a bit, but both kiddos are having a blast post-Christmas. Highlighted toys include H's new dollhouse, B's new singing bus, H's singamajig (still wondering what the person who invented this one was smoking - neat toy though), and the kids' hockey sticks - a personal favorite of daddy's too! :)
Outside of gifts! my new little family had a blast doing some other things as well. Just being together as a fearsome foursome was a treat, but we also took part in visiting the Botanical Gardens to check out the amazing Christmas lights they put up every year. H and I also made it out for a "special, special trip" where we went out to look for new dolls to put in her dollhouse. Awesome festivities to say the least. Anyways, here's a great video from Andrea's blog that you may enjoy. Keep your head up and stick on the ice!
Now as a parent, Christmas has taken on a completely different meaning. I'm basically living through my children during Christmas. Their big eyes and excitement is an amazing thing to witness. B was a little sick on Christmas Eve which affected his excitement a bit, but both kiddos are having a blast post-Christmas. Highlighted toys include H's new dollhouse, B's new singing bus, H's singamajig (still wondering what the person who invented this one was smoking - neat toy though), and the kids' hockey sticks - a personal favorite of daddy's too! :)
Outside of gifts! my new little family had a blast doing some other things as well. Just being together as a fearsome foursome was a treat, but we also took part in visiting the Botanical Gardens to check out the amazing Christmas lights they put up every year. H and I also made it out for a "special, special trip" where we went out to look for new dolls to put in her dollhouse. Awesome festivities to say the least. Anyways, here's a great video from Andrea's blog that you may enjoy. Keep your head up and stick on the ice!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
So Long Holiday Beard
Not to be confused with the playoff beard, the holiday beard is generally grown out of pure laziness. Some might blame the lack of client meetings and face time with the boss. Others might site giving one's skin a rest from the irritation that comes with shaving. For me it was just a matter of taking the time to shave. I didn't want to take that time, which is probably the mere definition of laziness. In preparation for my return to work today, and for the first time in 5 days, I shaved. So this blog is to bid thee holiday beard fair well, and to salute all the dudes of the holidays that grew their beards out this season. I feel like I should put up some photos to remember the moment, but sadly, none can be found. So instead I've put up some photos of other dudes that can rock a beard. Please note that my beard was not as elaborate or full.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
I'm Back, The Holidays and My Gut
Hey there blog; it's been awhile. Almost two years to be exact. I guess things have been a little busy lately. No, take that back ... A lot busy. Since my last post, I've been busy raising two awesome kids. They truly are amazing kids and have brought so much joy to my family's life. Andrea and I have worked out our schedules so the kids only have daycare two days out of the week. That way they're home with us more often, but it leads to not having any days together as a family. Andrea is home with the kids by herself three days during the week while I'm home on the weekends alone with the kids. It makes things even more hectic.
On the plus side, when we get time off together (like this past Holiday week), it makes it all the more special. My holiday work schedule is truly awesome! From noon on the 23rd through Monday the office was closed. This week, we each only have to work two days and New Years Eve we're closed all day. It's great and thanks to DaviesMoore for that awesome perk!
So ... spending family time together during the Holidays has been a blast. With all our family back home, and the expense to travel too much for our budget, we hung out at home, opened gifts and played like it was going out of style. We did an impromptu stay-cation last Thursday, and went to the Hampton Inn downtown. We had a certificate for a free night's stay (actually a few of those certificates) and went swimming with the kids and enjoyed cable TV the morning we woke up. We also made sure to hit up one of the local sushi restaurants with the kids. The kids absolutely love sushi. They downed a veggie role (well maybe close to two veggie roles) and shared a PB+J Roll - a local favorite for kids! Hadley also started on Andrea's tempura shrimp roll while I enjoyed my #$@* Amazing Roll which is #$@* amazing by the way.
Since I was a little hungover from my Christmas party the night before that was my first meal of the day. Please note that if you're only going to only eat one meal a day, and you've recently puked, sushi probably isn't your best choice. I had almost two rolls, two bolls of miso and a noodle salad (side dish - not really all that big) and I could not get enough to eat for like the next two days. I was eating Gardettos in bed at the hotel the rest of the night. (more on the Christmas Party later this week)
The Holidays made me realize that I've gained weight. I did an awesome job this past year running consistently, not drinking soda and eating healthy, but ... This past month or so has kicked my butt. I haven't gone for a run in 2 months and since Thanksgiving I've been eating like crap. So I worked out with Andrea and the kids yesterday at Stoller Strides - a local group of mom's that push their kids in strollers while working out and singing. It was tough to say the least. Wall sits, lunges tons of situps and all while singing ... Uff dah! I need to get back in shape. This winter I think I'm going to do the Gold's Gym Body Success Challenge. Not because of the challenge, but because of the gym membership. Last winter I ran outside at night after the kids went to bed. I can't find the motivation to run in the dark and cold this year so I need something else. What can it hurt right???
Almost forgot, my wife, Andrea, has started a blog all about family, great deals, fun things to do and just the positive things in life if you're ever interested in checking it out - www.dwellingonthepositive.com. She's been a lot more consistent with her posts than I have, and has better content. :)
On the plus side, when we get time off together (like this past Holiday week), it makes it all the more special. My holiday work schedule is truly awesome! From noon on the 23rd through Monday the office was closed. This week, we each only have to work two days and New Years Eve we're closed all day. It's great and thanks to DaviesMoore for that awesome perk!
So ... spending family time together during the Holidays has been a blast. With all our family back home, and the expense to travel too much for our budget, we hung out at home, opened gifts and played like it was going out of style. We did an impromptu stay-cation last Thursday, and went to the Hampton Inn downtown. We had a certificate for a free night's stay (actually a few of those certificates) and went swimming with the kids and enjoyed cable TV the morning we woke up. We also made sure to hit up one of the local sushi restaurants with the kids. The kids absolutely love sushi. They downed a veggie role (well maybe close to two veggie roles) and shared a PB+J Roll - a local favorite for kids! Hadley also started on Andrea's tempura shrimp roll while I enjoyed my #$@* Amazing Roll which is #$@* amazing by the way.
Since I was a little hungover from my Christmas party the night before that was my first meal of the day. Please note that if you're only going to only eat one meal a day, and you've recently puked, sushi probably isn't your best choice. I had almost two rolls, two bolls of miso and a noodle salad (side dish - not really all that big) and I could not get enough to eat for like the next two days. I was eating Gardettos in bed at the hotel the rest of the night. (more on the Christmas Party later this week)
The Holidays made me realize that I've gained weight. I did an awesome job this past year running consistently, not drinking soda and eating healthy, but ... This past month or so has kicked my butt. I haven't gone for a run in 2 months and since Thanksgiving I've been eating like crap. So I worked out with Andrea and the kids yesterday at Stoller Strides - a local group of mom's that push their kids in strollers while working out and singing. It was tough to say the least. Wall sits, lunges tons of situps and all while singing ... Uff dah! I need to get back in shape. This winter I think I'm going to do the Gold's Gym Body Success Challenge. Not because of the challenge, but because of the gym membership. Last winter I ran outside at night after the kids went to bed. I can't find the motivation to run in the dark and cold this year so I need something else. What can it hurt right???
Almost forgot, my wife, Andrea, has started a blog all about family, great deals, fun things to do and just the positive things in life if you're ever interested in checking it out - www.dwellingonthepositive.com. She's been a lot more consistent with her posts than I have, and has better content. :)
Thursday, April 2, 2009
I'm A Reality Show Slut!!!
Can you believe it? Where does it end really? The difference between real life and television. I've always believed that some of the things we see on TV, even for reality shows, is purely drama made for television, but it's really entertaining to watch. I have to admit, I'm watching it pretty consistently (although maybe to a lesser extent with the no TV while the baby is awake rule) :).
It's funny when you really get into these shows how much you start picking sides. Take Jon & Kate Plus 8 for example. I don't watch the show anymore because everytime I do, I want to slap Kate. No, not really slap her, but she totally pisses me off the way she yells at Jon all the time and is totally above everyone else she comes in contact with on the show.
I just got done watching the Real World Reunion, and that transgender chick still drives me crazy. Yeah, some may claim it's because she's transgender, but that's not the case. I'm all for people making their own choices and totally support the gay, lesbian, transgender folks. The reason I don't like her comes from the way in which she conducts herself. She uses big words to make herself sound smarter around her housemates and better than everyone else in the house.
It goes totally the other way too ... Fabio on Top Chef was awesome this season and always made us laugh into the late evening. The Roloffs are a fun family to watch with Matt always coming up with crazy adventures and Amy just being the perfect mom. I think I'm going to do a top 10 reality show blog or a top 10 reality show personality blog sometime soon. I haven't done a top 10 in awhile and I think this falls perfectly in line. Watch out ;)
I just got done watching the Real World Reunion, and that transgender chick still drives me crazy. Yeah, some may claim it's because she's transgender, but that's not the case. I'm all for people making their own choices and totally support the gay, lesbian, transgender folks. The reason I don't like her comes from the way in which she conducts herself. She uses big words to make herself sound smarter around her housemates and better than everyone else in the house.
It goes totally the other way too ... Fabio on Top Chef was awesome this season and always made us laugh into the late evening. The Roloffs are a fun family to watch with Matt always coming up with crazy adventures and Amy just being the perfect mom. I think I'm going to do a top 10 reality show blog or a top 10 reality show personality blog sometime soon. I haven't done a top 10 in awhile and I think this falls perfectly in line. Watch out ;)
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
What's Up World???
Wow! How long has it been since my last post? It seems like forever and in many ways it has. So much has changed and that's probably the main reason why I haven't written anything in so long. Baby is here and healthy although we had a little scare a couple of weeks ago. It's amazing how much of my world is now tied into my little one and I think it's true what they say about guys becoming dads once the child is actually born. It seemed the day we got pregnant my wife was already a mom but I didn't feel any different until the baby was actually here. That moment was something I'll never forget. It was the most incredible ride and was just so cool.
Thankfully, since the last time I wrote our country has a new President. I was very interested in this election and followed it more than any other in my lifetime. It was a game changer as they say and hopefully our country can prosper again sometime soon. With everything going on it's a really scary time. It's my generations great depression. Although it's not quite at that level yet, the times aren't good. Growing up my generation was told to go to college, graduate and you will prosper but for many that's not the case and it's ashame.
ARod's positive steroid test was leaked to the public and he has come out and admitted it taking heat from reporters across the country. Everyone slams the guy but he's the only one that has thus far admitted to everything right away and come out with details and why, what, etc. Give the guy a little break and move on. There were 103 other players that weren't named and ARod was unfortunate to be the one that was in a test that was supposed to be confidential.
Anyways, enough of the ranting and stating the obvious stuff that happened between my last blogs. Hopefully there'll be plenty of new blogs in the following weeks with inappropriate content and an update on how my fantasy football finished this season. C ya soon
Thankfully, since the last time I wrote our country has a new President. I was very interested in this election and followed it more than any other in my lifetime. It was a game changer as they say and hopefully our country can prosper again sometime soon. With everything going on it's a really scary time. It's my generations great depression. Although it's not quite at that level yet, the times aren't good. Growing up my generation was told to go to college, graduate and you will prosper but for many that's not the case and it's ashame.
ARod's positive steroid test was leaked to the public and he has come out and admitted it taking heat from reporters across the country. Everyone slams the guy but he's the only one that has thus far admitted to everything right away and come out with details and why, what, etc. Give the guy a little break and move on. There were 103 other players that weren't named and ARod was unfortunate to be the one that was in a test that was supposed to be confidential.
Anyways, enough of the ranting and stating the obvious stuff that happened between my last blogs. Hopefully there'll be plenty of new blogs in the following weeks with inappropriate content and an update on how my fantasy football finished this season. C ya soon
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Top Nerds In TV History!!!
Where would we be without them? They fix our computers (they also invent our computers & other technological gizmos), wear big glasses and/or goofy clothes, make us laugh at their crazy antics and make all us other guys look that much better. Let's take a moment to salute the funniest nerds on TV starting with some honorable mentions.
Honorable Mention:
If these guys didn’t make the “Top 10” list it goes to show how dorky the “Top 10” list truly is. Gilligan & Doogie get the nod because I don’t think I’ve ever seen their shows.
Beaker (The Muppets)
Gilligan (Gilligan’s Island)
Doogie Howser (Doogie Howser, M.D.)
Booger (Revenge of the Nerds)
10. Mark Foster (Step By Step)
This poor guy played a dork in everything I’ve seen him in. Seems to fit the part well at least.
Honorable Mention:
If these guys didn’t make the “Top 10” list it goes to show how dorky the “Top 10” list truly is. Gilligan & Doogie get the nod because I don’t think I’ve ever seen their shows.
Beaker (The Muppets)
Gilligan (Gilligan’s Island)
Doogie Howser (Doogie Howser, M.D.)
Booger (Revenge of the Nerds)
10. Mark Foster (Step By Step)
This poor guy played a dork in everything I’ve seen him in. Seems to fit the part well at least.
9. Velma (Scooby Doo)
Jinkies …
8. Paul Pfeiffer (Wonder Years)
Paul reminds me of a real-life Millhouse character. The rumor back in my Junior High days was that Paul Pfeiffer grew up to be Marilyn Manson but that rumor sadly got bunked.
7. Barney Fife (Andy Griffith Show)
Don Knotts is a hilarious and underrated actor. His characters are pretty much the same but they’re all good i.e. Ghost & Mr. Chicken & Barney Fife. Barney thought he was a tough, cool guy but really was quite the opposite.
6. Dwight Schrute (The Office)
Dwight is such a perfect character because everyone knows a guy like this (I know a few). He thinks he’s cool but just so far from that. It’s hilarious.
5. Louis Skolnick (Revenge of the Nerds)
What list would be complete without the King of the Nerds!? With the exception of Nerds In Love, the Revenge of the Nerds series is about as classic as they come and Louis Skolnick is about as nerdy as they come.
4. Minkus (Boy Meets World)
The dorky kid from Boy Meets World … Classic dorky look & classic dorky personality. Remember when before Topanga hit puberty and she was the dorky girl character on the show. Man did things change after that.
3. Millhouse (The Simpsons)
This blue haired, yellow skinned character provides some great laughs.
2. Samuel “Screech” Powers (Saved By The Bell)
Screech was a good guy at heart and hung out with the two most popular guys at Bayside High, which made him look even dorkier. When Screech grew up he became that much more awkward and weird on the show. If you don't know what I'm talking about check out Saved By The Bell The New Class.
1. Steve Urkel (Family Matters)
When I was a kid the link below was one of the funniest things I had seen at that time. It was also one of my favorite episodes although I didn't quite understand the underlying drinking theme involved. Check out Steve Urkel doing the "Urkel Dance" ... This gives Steve the nod over Screech and the other Super Nerds.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ncw70Hw1ffs
Jinkies …
8. Paul Pfeiffer (Wonder Years)
Paul reminds me of a real-life Millhouse character. The rumor back in my Junior High days was that Paul Pfeiffer grew up to be Marilyn Manson but that rumor sadly got bunked.
7. Barney Fife (Andy Griffith Show)
Don Knotts is a hilarious and underrated actor. His characters are pretty much the same but they’re all good i.e. Ghost & Mr. Chicken & Barney Fife. Barney thought he was a tough, cool guy but really was quite the opposite.
6. Dwight Schrute (The Office)
Dwight is such a perfect character because everyone knows a guy like this (I know a few). He thinks he’s cool but just so far from that. It’s hilarious.
5. Louis Skolnick (Revenge of the Nerds)
What list would be complete without the King of the Nerds!? With the exception of Nerds In Love, the Revenge of the Nerds series is about as classic as they come and Louis Skolnick is about as nerdy as they come.
4. Minkus (Boy Meets World)
The dorky kid from Boy Meets World … Classic dorky look & classic dorky personality. Remember when before Topanga hit puberty and she was the dorky girl character on the show. Man did things change after that.
3. Millhouse (The Simpsons)
This blue haired, yellow skinned character provides some great laughs.
2. Samuel “Screech” Powers (Saved By The Bell)
Screech was a good guy at heart and hung out with the two most popular guys at Bayside High, which made him look even dorkier. When Screech grew up he became that much more awkward and weird on the show. If you don't know what I'm talking about check out Saved By The Bell The New Class.
1. Steve Urkel (Family Matters)
When I was a kid the link below was one of the funniest things I had seen at that time. It was also one of my favorite episodes although I didn't quite understand the underlying drinking theme involved. Check out Steve Urkel doing the "Urkel Dance" ... This gives Steve the nod over Screech and the other Super Nerds.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ncw70Hw1ffs
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