A Lil Bit about Arizona

When it comes to living in Arizona I go through phases. There are times that I can't wait to venture out and try something new and others when I think that we are really lucky to live here. Lately it seems that I have been in "really lucky to live here" mode; and I recognize this because as I'm driving down the street I notably appreciate the most often blue sky as it contrasts with our flourishing landscapes. I relish the picturesque views and the overall friendliness of the local residents. I am thankful for the cost of living and the affordability of my kids chosen activities and when I talk to non-Arizonians I find myself promoting the state and all that it has to offer.

Luis and I moved to Arizona VERY unexpectedly. We had been living in Orlando for about two and a half years and we were finding it extremely difficult to make trips home to Puerto Vallarta since that wasn't a place that people were really travelling to from Florida and we started thinking about moving West. I called my friend Hollie, who had moved to Phoenix at the same time that we had moved to Orlando. Hollie had been attending Thunderbird (Graduate school for Global Management) and as a side project, she and two friends decided to open a coffeehouse. (I refer to my list of 100 things ~ # 82. Hollie Castro is the most ambitious person I know; and I think she is truly awe inspiring.) The year was 1996 and Starbucks hadn't come to town yet; so their business was doing quite well (they were voted Best Coffeehouse & Best Cup of Coffee, by both the "New Times" and "Arizona Republic" shortly after opening) and as upon her graduation in December Hollie was moving to Italy to work for GE and her partner Julie was moving to Houston, this was going to leave her partner Bobbi looking for a manager. I thought that managing a coffeehouse would be a welcome change from being a social worker so Hollie told me to call Bobbi. After speaking to Bobbi for a half hour, I got the job and Luis and I moved to Phoenix, sight unseen.

People always ask if I miss New York and the truth is that I miss my friends ands I miss the food but that's about it. I LOVE food! And though you could probably guess that just by looking at me, I firmly believe that not ALL overweight people LOVE food. Some are just overweight because they eat (whatever) to fill a void, or because they have poor metabolisms, or don't exercise enough, or because they eat the wrong foods; I however, LOVE food. I love to watch Food Network shows of all kinds

(especially $40 a Day.) I like to read restaurant reviews and menus even if I know that it is for a restaurant that I will never go to. When I'm in a hotel, one of the first things that I do is read about the local eateries and whenever Rachel K is going to a new restaurant she always emails me the menu so I can check it out; because we share a love of food.

Now, because I love food, you have to understand that moving from New York to any other state presents a culinary culture shock like no other. Upon the transition from NY to Florida I recognized the absence of the "Mom and Pop"

style restaurants and the non-existence of Diners ( I refer to my list #7 ~I totally miss New York Diners. Seriously, if there is anyone with some restaurant savvy, and you're looking to strike it rich ~ move to Arizona and open a Good, Old Fashioned, everything from Omelets to Crab stuffed flounder diner, and you will make a Gold Mine.) Aahh the Diner; where you could go any time of the day or night and ALWAYS get anything on the menu. The Diner, with its rotating cake cases with slices as big as your head. The Diner, where I first learned to love french fries and brown gravy and first tasted Baklava (that one was for you Judy; who ALWAYS asked EVERY waiter or waitress at WHICHEVER Diner; "How's the Baklava?") The Diner, where I spent countless hours after a school concert, or having a family dinner or an early morning snack after leaving a club. Aahh the Diner - choices were unlimited and yet I always got the same couple of things ~ BUT alas the chain was the thing in Orlando and the home cooked meals from Italian restaurants were no where to be found. The lack of dining diversity in Orlando somewhat prepared me for the gastronomic deficiency that I first encountered in Phoenix; the land of "Erto." Yes, the Phoenix area is overrun by 24 hour Mexican drive thru joints that frequently have a name that end in "erto." We have Filiberto's, Heriberto's, Hilberto's,Humberto's, Poliberto's Roberto's, and Roliberto's, (just to name a few,) and I'm sure there must be a Berto's too. Now Michelle K has been living in Phoenix a lot longer than me and she had informed me that Erto means meat of the cat; but I have developed my own theory. I hadn't had much exposure to Mexican food prior to moving to Phoenix, and YES, I know that I am married to a Mexican man; but his mom's cooking is not the type of fare that be offered in a Mexican restaurant; although it is DELICIOUS! No, growing up in New City, the only encounter that I had with Mexican food was Tacos at Jack In the Box (a few towns over; ) AND that Jack closed down within a few years. No Mexican food was not prevalent in Rockland County in the 70's and 80's and I offer further proof by explaining that in the 8th grade my Spanish teacher actually planned a field trip to the one and only Mexican restaurant in the county. Now I ask you, if Mexican food was commonplace would our class have been taking a field trip there? Probably not; but I digress...
The "Erto's" are not exactly purveyor's of Mexican cuisine; they are sellers of what I have come to call "ASS BURRITO." Yes, you read that right. Now you can decide for yourself what type of ass I am referring to; but basically I dubbed the popular Carne Asada burrito (from ANY of the "Erto's) ass burrito because it is meat that is typically overcooked and void of taste, (in my opinion) and subsequently not only did the Carne Asada burrito come to be know as ass burrito in my house, but now ALL of the "Erto's" are just generically and affectionately referred to as ass burrito; so, ass burrito is now not only a meal, but a place; or several places. "Aahh, the diner;" she said longingly...

Ass burrito is extremely popular in Phoenix and especially with my family. I honestly think that Luis could eat EVERY meal there and my kids would be righ tbehind him because they love the Quesadillas and beans.

A couple of months ago a brand new Filiberto's was getting ready to open in my neighborhood and to say that Luis and Nicky were waiting for the opening with baited breath would not be an understatement; so the day that I drove by and saw the balloons outside, I knew EXACTLY what we were having for dinner. I told my guys that Filiberto's had opened and they literally could not get there quick enough and because I am the Queen of FAIR; I will admit that the ass burrito was actually good. It had flavor and everything. Now does this mean that I'm a fan? Absolutely NOT, but I will give credit where credit is due and I will eat it out of necessity, although I order a shredded beef taco salad without beans and NOT a Carne Asada anything. Well, last week Luis was at work and time had gotten away from me, so I went to the A.B drive thru. I got the food home and discovered that I now had an additional reason to call them ass burrito because although my receipt said "a pint of beans" these payasos (Spanish word for clowns) sent me home with a pint of rice. Now I ask you, what choice did I have? I loaded the kids into the car and went back to A.B. I requested my beans and asked that they remake my order because I didn't want the kids to eat cold Quesadilla; AND I am now boycotting Filiberto's (not like that's such a hardship for me really.)

Now, although my disclaimers usually appear at the beginning of a post, let me say this: There is A LOT of fabulous food in Phoenix despite the excess of the "Erto's" and if you're visiting, even those are worth a try. A lot has changed food wise since we moved her 12 and a half years ago and the choices now abound. I hope to see ya here sometime because it really is a beautiful place to visit, a great place to live and a wonderful place to eat.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

100 Random Things About Me

Continuity, continuity, continuity; oh and by the way, did I mention continuity? So just as I like to celebrate my birthday all weekend; OK all week long; I also want to enjoy the fact that I have reached a real milestone on "The Bumpy Ride" by posting 100 blogs. Now, being the Queen of Fairness that I am, I had to work through a real dilemma last week, as last weeks post was Bumpy Ride #100; however, since I deleted a post (NEVER to be read again - God willing;) it actually appears as if up until today there were only 99 posts. So what does this mean, you ask... Right, that THIS is TECHNICALLY blog # 100 - WOOHOO!

Now, if you happen to have read my post entitled "You Asked For It;" (The one with all the photos of GC,) then THIS post would be the one, previously referred to as #2; but hopefully you won't think it's #2 - capiche? And so, for continuity's sake I decided to bite off of a recent forward (if you will,) that has been going around Facebook. During the past few weeks people have been sharing 25 random facts about themselves. When I first received someones, I was a little perplexed because it invites you to share your 25 random things and I'm such an open book, that I honestly didn't think that there were 25 things that people DIDN'T know about me. After thinking about it for quite a few days (surprise, surprise ) I posted my list but later realized that I had forgotten to use some of the "good ones" that I'd come up with; so I got to thinking - "In honor of my 100th blog, I'm going to challenge myself to post 100 Random things (including some of my original 25 - I mean give a girl a break.) Now these 100 random things will also include random thoughts as hey, thoughts are things; AND, say it with me "I'm all about the greater good."

I've really been looking forward to this post, and I've had my list comprised pretty much since I previously referred to it as #2. I decided that I was going to take a break from work in the morning, and get this weeks post out early. I found my little picture (above) and I started typing away. I was ON A ROLL; until, I couldn't find my handy, dandy notebook where I had written the 75 things. I won't say I searched frantically, but CLOSE TO IT. Finally I gave up and went back to work. I emailed Michelle K, and let her know about my road block and she kindly suggested that I pray to St. Anthony as her Grandmother swears by it. Since I was desperate, I thought it couldn't hurt. I told her that I would do it, but I drew the line at crossing myself. I went from room to room saying "St. Anthony St. Anthony look around; something's lost and must be found" but alas, no notebook. So when I picked Kelsie up from school I told her that I had a very important job for her, and I asked her to look for my notebook and bribed her with the $1.00 Jr. Candy Sundae that she has been after from Sonic. Well, this was a deal that Kels couldn't pass up, and after being in the house about a minute and a half, I hear "I GOT IT!" And sure enough SHE DID. It was in the playroom, don't ask me why. My little artists probably needed a piece of paper and helped themselves to Mama's special book; but I DON'T care. I got it back and now I can get started. I wrote to Michelle and let her know that Kelsie had found my book, to which she replied "Great, maybe now she can find me a job." LOL I assured her that for the price of a Sonic sundae anything might be possible. AND while I'm on the subject; I just came back from getting Kelsie that Sonic Jr. candy sundae and I have to say - it's PERFECT! If you are trying to watch your weight, but desire a little treat, for $1.00 you get a small portion of vanilla ice cream with your choice of M&M's, Oreos, Peanut Butter Cup or Butterfinger, whipped cream and a cherry. I didn't get one for me, but definitely made a note to self, for those low self-control days, I am heading to Sonic.

And, so without further ado; I present my VERY random list.1. Luis and I fell in love at first sight in Puerto Vallarta;. We were physically together a total of 4 weeks during the course of 6 months, (before he came to the U.S on a fiance visa;) and we'll be celebrating our 15th anniversary on July 2nd. (Full story still to follow at a later date.)

2. My kids are the best thing I've EVER done..

3. I ache to become a professional writer. (I actually feel it in my bones.)

4. I've always wanted to live in Chickapin Parish ala "Steel Magnolias".

5. I don't think that I'm a very good driver; EXCEPT for on the highway in Mexico.

6. I am not very religious; but I love being Jewish.

7. I totally miss New York Diners. Seriously, if there is anyone with some restaurant savvy, and you're looking to strike it rich ~ move to Arizona and open a Good, Old Fashioned, everything from Omelets to Crab stuffed flounder diner, and you will make a Gold Mine.
8. ABBA music makes me happy!!

9. I'm a very good organizer( but you would never be able to tell that by looking at my house.)

10. I love going to the movies; but I rarely go.

11. I could eat Sushi every day.

12. Michelle Kalka (still getting used to that and I know SHE is too;) IS the best speller I know.

13. I have never been to Oregon, but I just have a feeling that I would love to live there.

14. My parents and paternal Grandfather all died at the age of 43 and that WON'T be me.

15. I love Broadway Musicals.

16. I do a pretty good Cher impression.

17. My favorite physical feature is my eyes (Yes, boys; my eyes.)

18. I excel at Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon. (Feel free to email AsktheQOE@gmail.com to challenge me.)

19. I don't like scary movies because I have a VERY vivid imagination.

20. "Silence of the Lambs" was the scariest movie that I've ever seen and I still check the backseat of my car before I get in; so I can make sure that no one is hiding in there to abduct me (proving #19 right there.)

21. I am terrified of dying and leaving my children.

22. I don't speak fluent Spanish; but I have a very good accent.

23. I'm not always the person that I want to be.

24. My friends are my family.

25. I have severe wanderlust.
26. I ALWAYS wake up in a good mood and raring to go - NO matter how tired I am.

27. I gave birth to all 3 of my children without any drugs or and epidural and I'd gladly do it that way all over again.

28. I'm a pretty good public speaker.

29. The 3 best meals of my life were all eaten with my husband, "My Sister" Michele and her husband, Tony.

30. I've never smoked pot or taken any other illegal drugs.

31. I can tie a cherry stem in a knot with my tongue.

32. I used to smoke cigarettes; and I loved it.

33. I don't like heavy metal - never have.

34. I LOVE iced coffee and even drink it when it's cold. (It TOTALLY reminds me of my mom, and she would just be tickled at how many places serve iced coffee now; let alone all of the varieties.)

35. I wish that we spent more time with my brother.

36. I believe intelligent conversation can be a thrill.

37. I've always loved award shows. (But now, I keep it down to the Oscars, the Tonys, The Emmys and The Golden Globes; oops, And SAG and Critics Choice.)

38. I believe that Jackie Teale would give you the shirt off of her back.

39. I am grateful for my husband and I LOVE him beyond words.

40. I'm great at returning things - even things that shouldn't be returned. (Yes, I'm THAT woman.)

41. I LOVE Frozen margaritas, without salt and only if you can't really taste the Tequila. (Yes, I know that's called a lime slushie - but humor me.)

42. I want to learn to make Matzoh Balls.

43. People tell me that I'm a good cook but I have a limited repertoire.

44. I love to make plans.

45. I'm very good at arguing (even when I don't want to.)

46. I wish I had a singing voice like Judy Leff, Michele Quigley or Stefanie Schanzer Melillo.

47. I don't think that people should wear slippers to the store.

48. I prefer fountain sodas to bottles or cans and the bigger THE BETTER!

49. I wish Bath & Body Works would sell Holly Jolly Mistletoe Antibacterial hand soap (or any evergreen scetnted soap) ALL YEAR LONG

50. I still LOVE to dance.

51. I can't resist movie theater popcorn. (With butter)

52. I will miss James Spader and "Boston Legal" terribly.
53. I have NEVER watched an episode of Star Trek.
54. I think Rachel Kaufman is a marvel. Her entrepenaurial spirit is contagious.

55. If my handwriting doesn't look neat enough to me (even if it's just a list;) I'll rip it up and re-write it. (I know what they call that; you don't have to tell me...)

56. I know nothing about wine, but I admire people who do.

57. Lori Butler is the MOST exceptionally, organized person I know.

58. I HATE being late; though all too often I am.

59. I hate calling in the order for take out; and I don't really like picking it up either. ( I think it has to do with being fat.)
60. I love Olives - ALL kinds.

61. I find slot machines tedious.

62. Sour Patch Kids / Sour gummy worms are my new faves.

63. I prefer chocolate if it has something in it - like peanut butter or nuts; hell, even a raisin.

64. I love the way Bobbi Hahn accessorizes.
65. Every day I try to be a better person.

66. I can't resist a "Real World Road / Rules Challenge"

67. I have learned that when someone shows you who they are - BELIEVE THEM.

68. I can't wait to go camping again. (I KNOW; can you belive it?)

69. I love to sleep in the car (when someone else is driving - of course.)

70. I love to look at the ocean but I've always hated sand.

71. I think Disneyland pales in comparison to Disneyworld.

72. I love mushrooms with EVERYTHING. Eggs, pasta sauce, steak - YUM!

73. I think crab legs are a waste of time. Not enough meat for the work; BUT, I really like crab.

74. I'm a big Johnny Depp fan.

75. I probably take too much Ibuprofen.

76. I have pee anxiety. If we're going somewhere I HAVE to go to the bathroom EVERY chance I get, for fear that I will have to go and then there won't be a bathroom available.

77. I love Victorian homes.

78. I've always wanted a porch swing (which I guess would mean I've also always wanted a porch.)

79. I am thankful that I come from New York.
80. I should have changed my major from Pre-Law to English and NOT Sociology / Criminal Justice.

81. Since I try not to eat carbs at dinner, Chinese food has lost it's appeal.

82. Hollie Castro is the most ambitious person I know; and I think she is truly awe inspiring.

83. My feet are way TOO BIG.

84. I wish that Nick Mitchell / Norman Gentle, would have made it into the wild card round of American Idol. ( I mean wouldn't you rather watch a few weeks of him, then say someone like Sanjaya?)

85. Serendipity is one of my very favorite words, (but I rarely get to use it.)

86. I believe that money can't buy happiness but it can buy peace of mind.

87. I am committed to building my home in Puerto Vallarta (for someday.)

88. I love to stay in nice hotels. (Which is to say - I love to stay in hotels; as long as they are NICE!)

89. I don't like to spend time alone.

90. It's very unusual for us not to have plans on a Saturday night.

91. I am not fond of cilantro.

92. I can defnitely fly by the seat of my pants.

93. I once went to the airport with a friend, and just got on a plane and went to Orlando. We had nothing with us, and just bought a few things when we got there.

94. I have recently learned to believe that just becasue someone thinks something about you; it DOESN'T mean it's true. (YES, I only JUST learned this.)

95. I believe that Robert Downey Jr. and John Travolta will both win Oscars one day.

96. I know Most KISS songs by heart; thanks to my brother. I hated them growing up, but over the years they've grown on me; and yah I REALLY LIKE THEM.

97. I think forgiveness is the best gift that you could give or receive.

98. Lesa Guth's lemon bars are good for what ails ya. (You'll just have to take my word for this one.)

99. I believe that I'll be paid to write one day. (hopefully sooner than later.)

100. I try to give more than I take.

So there you have it. What more can I say ~ REALLY? I know that these tidbits may seem rather self-indulgent, but I guess that's why it's MY blog. Although as I've said a million times before, I am EVER so grateful to those of you who chose to read it. And EVEN more grateful to those of you who tell your friends about it. LOL

I am optimistic that my next 100 posts are going to be even better than the first; and I am actually going to attempt to do 2 posts a week in order to get in a more regular writing groove. Maybe a pro wouldn't say writing groove; but hey, I just gotta be me.

Till next time...

Queen of EVERYTHING