Exit, pursued by a bear.

I've only got a few minutes before my next class, but I've been swearing to myself that I would blog more often, so, here goes!

I've had a sinister, nagging feeling all week that's left me mildly cranky most of the time. I've felt at odds with the world, and am realizing today that I've wasted half of the week feeling sorry for myself. I still have whining I could do, but instead I'm going to remind myself that there is no bear (metaphorical or otherwise) nipping at my heels...

I've started a few new sewing projects (I'll post pics when I'm done), and I've been cooking up a storm! There is not much more comforting than preparing (and, of course, eating) delicious seasonal foods when the weather starts changing.


Three Bean Chili


Coconut Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins


Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapenos


Lemon Cream Cheese Cake

Hmmmm, it does seem I was really into jalapenos and cream cheese this week, doesn't it!

Last weekend, B and I attended the annual Tulane Graduate Student Gala at Generations Hall in the Warehouse District. It was out of control, and besides the fact that they played some of the most atrocious music I've ever heard (lots of Miley Cyrus and horrific Journey and Bon Jovi remixes), there was a good time had by all!

Generations Hall


A few of the revelers

So, if you've had a cranky/sad/boring/aggravating week, just remember: Like I always say: At least you're not being mauled by a bear.

Enjoy your Wednesday, 17 November 2010, there won't ever be another one!

A lot of people like snow. I find it to be an unnecessary freezing of water.

Whatever my mother told you about a childhood Just Jess running around in the snow in nothing but panties, chanting "I-like-the-cold-I-like-the-cold-I-like-the-cold"....wait, she didn't tell you? Well, winter is NOT for me. Give me steamy, sweaty, breeze-less summer days!

Last night was the first time this year I had to crawl out of my blanket cocoon to turn on the furnace. This morning was the first time my poor little bare feet had to brave the chilly floor (*note to self: find slippers*). Today was the first time I had to don not only a jacket, but a long sleeve blouse, to go to work. It is the first day I've had to feel that miserable ear ache that comes from walking in a cold wind.

I don't mind all of this, but I'm not exactly thrilled about it either. Fortunately, I live in a city with a relatively merciful winter season. And another bout of warmer temperatures is predicted for next week. But tonight will be the first night I'll have to lug around a coat at happy hour, and spend half my time peeling off/putting on layers of clothing. Ugh. When I'm out on a Friday night, the only things I want in my hands are a)a cocktail b)my cute little e-cigarette or c)my camera.

On the bright side, last weekend, the weather was magnificent! Halloween the high was 82 and the low was 65! And I was super happy with how our costumes turned out! (all from scratch except for my t-shirt and Bryan's shoes!)





All weekend I hung out with some of the coolest people you could know, and met some new folks in the process!







Though my epic Halloween weekend ended kind of badly (cab driver pulled over and threatened by cops, me = hit in the face by random Halloween reveler - LONG story), overall a good time was had by all! The only thing that could have made it better (besides possibly not being sucker-punched)was if my old Halloween-loving Oxford peeps had been here. I miss you all, so much!

I hope your Halloween was creepy and full of sweet treats! Now, onto surviving this chilly weekend! Have a great one and be safe!