Mommy Needs A Diet Coke!

Cook Family Statement: Bailey The Cat

2012-02-14T22:16:00.001-05:00

Thank you all for the outpouring of support during this difficult time.

The Cook Family, Monday, Feb. 13, lost Bailey, a Russian Blue cat.

According to medical experts, Bailey had a huge mass on his liver, severe arthritis and there was no other option but to put him out of pain.

During his 12-year life, Bailey enjoyed the following:

Sleeping
Chasing flash lights
Howling at the water in the shower or bathtub
Getting brushed
Hissing, growling and fighting with his brother and sister.
Claw at all furniture
Cuddling with his sister - sometimes.
Cuddling with his father and mother - and maybe sometimes the human kids
Smelling human kids

Thank you for respecting our privacy during this difficult time.

See the full gallery on Posterous

REVIEW: Sushi Pop Oviedo

2012-02-12T15:43:00.001-05:00

Impromptu date night meant finally trying Sushi Pop in Oviedo!

It's hard to believe this little gem is in Oviedo - right down the street from our house!

First thing first, it's small...and BUSY on a Saturday night. So make a reservation first.

They could stand to expand the wait area - but it was also a cold night - so no waiting outside!

My only complaint about the place as a whole, it was hard to order a drink. We couldn't seem to get one while we waited, and it was slow once we finally sat down.

But with that said, everything else was amazing.

We started with the truffle salt and sauteed garlic edamame. It one word - AMAZING.

Then, it was sushi time. We ordered four different roles to sample a bit of everything.

I ordered the Anaconda: tempura shrimp, Japanese mayo, topped with eel, avocado, kabayaki sauce, crème fraiche and black sesame seeds (on the bottom of the picture below) and

the Oviedo Chicken
tempura chicken, Japanese mayo and avocado drizzled with honey mustard (the top of the picture below).

I traditionally only enjoy a shrimp tempura role. It's just perfect - so why try anything else? The Anaconda was really good - and really filling.

The Oviedo Chicken was interesting. It was such a different sushi texture and eating it just straight up was a little strange. But once you add some soy sauce, watch out! It's amazing! Something about the sweat and salt of it make it amazing.

Speaking of soy sauce - love the display:

My husband ordered the Lobster and Almonds: tempura lobster, avocado, asparagus, smelt roe, yuzu tartar sauce, encrusted with toasted almonds (bottom left).

His favorite thing though, was the HOT MESS: smoked salmon, avocado and tempura flakes with honey kabayaki, topped with baked tuna, salmon, yellowtail, flounder, spicy mayo, smelt roe, chives and rendered bacon (top right).

The menu is not your typical sushi menu - which is a nice change. It feels like a Top Chef - inspired restaurant. We will definately be going back. I overheard a conversation while I was there that they may be expanding into an empty storefront next door to expand the lounge area. That would be an excellent idea!!!!

We did not have room for dessert, but the table next to us ordered something that came with a show!

Apparently it was the: Peanut Butter and Jelly Sorbet
sorbet made table side with liquid nitrogen, topped with marshmallow foam and peanut butter powder choice of grape, raspberry and strawberry.

Happy eating!

It's Shamrock Shake season!!! @mcdonalds_usa

2012-02-09T17:11:00.001-05:00

It's Shamrock Shake season!!! @mcdonalds_usa

2012-02-09T17:10:00.001-05:00

Cake Pops! An Adventure in Party Planning...

2012-02-04T14:32:00.001-05:00

Birthday party fun means baking for me...

I decided to try the cake pop as an alternative to the traditional birthday cake - and also use this opportunity as a dry run for an upcoming bridal shower. If they worked - perhaps we'll do them for that event!!

I cheated all the way.

I bought a cake pop oven maker. It basically cranks out doughnut holes - six at a time.

I bought cake mix at the store and went to town!

I hate frosting. It's complicated, messy, never really sets and is just hard to work with. But I love chocolate. So instead of any frosting mess, I ended up covered in head to toe chocolate and it was great.

We are having a penguin themed birthday party. I knew there was no way I could make an actual penguin out of a pop - not yet anyway - so I went for ice/snowball look.

Here's how they came out....have to say - I'm happy with the results!

And again, thank you Pinterest for all the help in display and ideas!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Cake Pops! An Adventure in Party Planning...

2012-02-04T14:21:00.001-05:00

Birthday party fun means baking for me...

I cheated all the way.

I bought a cake pop oven maker. It basically cranks out doughnut holes - six at a time.

I bought cake mix at the store and went to town!

We are having a penguin themed birthday party. I knew there was no way I could make an actual penguin out of a pop - not yet anyway - so I went for ice/snowball look.

Here's how they came out....have to say - I'm happy with the results!

And again, thank you Pinterest for all the help in display and ideas!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Mountain Bike Trail Adventure - DeLeon Springs

2012-01-21T14:49:00.001-05:00

I like to think of myself as an above average biker. I can do spin class no problem, I used to do a lot of off-road trails in high school and I found one near my house that I can knock out easy.

So when my husband suggested a birthday breakfast at DeLeon Springs State Park - I remembered reading about an off-road trail, and figured it was totally something I would love.

Well, I did love it. But truth be told, I suck.

I SUCK!

It's an "intermediate trail." I figured - NO PROBLEM. BOY, was I wrong!

You can find more information about park HERE.

The trail is in excellent shape. I started out on Hoot Owl - which is the "starter" trail. Within the first two minutes, I was going down steep slopes and up gigantic hills. It was insane. Lots of tight turns, great banking, tons of hills. INSANE. The trail is marked nicely so you can go the "easy" way or a hard way.

I avoided the hard trails and the "jump bowl." I also avoided the "Log Trail" after seeing a picture of bikers literally crossing areas on a log.

I obviously need to do more work on some beginner trails - because I really thought I was going to die at some point. The nice thing, the map to the nearest hospital was posted on the entrance to the trails. Helmets are mandatory!!!

At the end, there's a jump area, which my kids are really interested in trying.

See the full gallery on Posterous

You can't tell too much from the pictures, but I promise you, STEEP! But great! Highly recommended - but this is not for beginners!

My Favorite Today Show Moment

2012-01-13T06:55:00.001-05:00

Well, not really my favorite moment on the SHOW, but my favorite thing because of the show.

The Today Show has always been a part of my morning routine in some shape or form. It has made me love news, has made me go into this crazy business and is partly to blame for my celebrity affections.

There was one magical night I got to meet two Today Show anchors...and it was awesome.

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Happy 60th Today Show!

Happy New Year! Wishing you a wonderful 2012!

2011-12-31T22:06:00.001-05:00

Cook Christmas 2011

2011-12-31T11:52:00.001-05:00

From Disney to Universal, to the beach and beyond - it's been a great Christmas season for the Cook Family.

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VIDEO: Patrick learns to ride his bike

2011-12-24T10:58:00.001-05:00

After weeks of fear, he literally got on and rode this bike this Christmas Eve.

He's no baby anymore!!

IMG_1029.MOV Watch on Posterous

The Cook Boys present....A Christmas Digital Short

2011-12-24T08:22:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

IMG_1012.MOV Watch on Posterous

Making Christmas Cookies...

2011-12-23T14:14:00.001-05:00

See the full gallery on Posterous

Enjoying vacation at the Shipyard in Winter Park.

2011-12-22T12:09:00.001-05:00

My Homemade Christmas Stockings

2011-12-19T21:22:00.001-05:00

It's something my mother did for my family when I was small, and it's something I wanted to do for my children.

It all started 8 years ago when I had Brendan. It took 8 years - but tonight, it's official - we are DONE and everyone now has homemade stockings!!!!

See the full gallery on Posterous

A Very Bresnahan Christmas

2011-12-18T11:26:00.001-05:00

Christmas was the best time of the year growing up.

So many wonderful memories, I decided to make a quick video.

Take a look and enjoy:

Grinchmas!!!!

2011-12-17T10:06:00.001-05:00

Fantasy Candlelight Processional at Epcot

2011-12-11T20:48:00.001-05:00

Enjoyed another annual family Christmas tradition tonight, Epcot's Candlelight Processional.

It is one of my favorite things of the year. This year we saw an old favorite, Neil Patrick Harris.

We've seen him below - check out the video below.

So while he's our favorite, I've started thinking about my wish list of celebrity narrators for the show..

Here are my thoughts, I would love to hear yours...

1) Keep NPH of course!

2) Rob Lowe - I think he would literally be amazing.

3) Oprah

4) Tina Fey

5) George Clooney

6) Patrick Dempsey

7) Julianna Margulies

8) Selena Gomez

9) Bette Midler

10) Allison Janney

11) Lady Gaga

Who's on your list??

It's @actuallynph and the Candlelight. Crazy wet rain but great show!

2011-12-11T18:46:00.001-05:00

Love. #epcot

2011-12-11T14:59:00.001-05:00

Patrick loved Duffy Bear! #epcot #wdw

2011-12-11T11:57:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to me!

2011-12-10T16:11:00.001-05:00

Why hello Whole Foods beer aisle. I don't believe we've met.

2011-12-10T15:13:00.001-05:00

Nick, our @elfonashelf has been very busy hanging around! #elflove

2011-12-08T15:32:00.001-05:00

A boy and his dog.

2011-12-04T16:37:00.003-05:00

A boy and his dog.

2011-12-04T16:37:00.001-05:00

Magic Kingdom! Best Mickey balloons! #wdw #disney

2011-12-02T21:33:00.001-05:00

And the wreath lights up!!! #disney #wdw

2011-12-02T18:41:00.001-05:00

Guess I need to add this amazing wreath to my Monorail World!

2011-12-02T17:24:00.001-05:00

Walt Disney World Christmas Decorations

2011-11-29T19:17:00.001-05:00

Disney's Boardwalk Resort is one of my Disney favorites anytime of year.

But I especially love their holiday decorations.

Take a look at this beauty inside the main lobby.

This display contains:

50 pounds of icing
401 sugar and gumpaste flowers
301 pounds of chocolate
2011 gingerbread pieces

It also has 15 hidden Mickey's!

My Mickey Mouse Christmas Tree

2011-11-25T14:30:00.001-05:00

We have three full size Christmas trees in our home. Each has a theme.

One is the family tree, decorated with the most important ornaments.

The next is the beach themed tree.

The last, and really my favorite, is the Mickey tree.

It's a pretty simple rule: MICKEY ONLY!

It's an amazing thing that I have enough ornaments to fill a whole Christmas tree with just Mickey ornaments. But yes, it's true.

And there are Mickey lights, a dancing Mickey out front, Mickey garland and a Mickey Christmas tree topper.

My favorite piece, however, is Monorail World!

In full disclosure - we have a few more mini-trees in the house as well..but that's for another time :)

Do you go Christmas crazy? Any cool themed Christmas trees?? Let me know!

See the full gallery on Posterous

My favorite Christmas ornaments...

2011-11-25T10:41:00.001-05:00

A look at some of my favorite Christmas ornaments!

Inlcuding toys, Marshall Fields and Aunt Holly and Uncle Mistletoe!

See the full gallery on Posterous

What I'm really thankful for this Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T16:52:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful for what I've lost.

There are two very important people on my mind as we enter this holiday season, and instead of being sad, I'm trying very hard to be thankful for the time shared.

The first is my grandmother. Mary Anne Bresnahan died two years ago almost to the day as I write this.

I realize now that I didn't even blog about her when she died. I think it was too emotional to even write about at the time. Now two years later, it's still sad.

The funny thing is, she totally planned her death. If you knew my grandmother, you know it made so much sense.

The woman loved holidays. Growing up, we spent every holiday together as one big family; Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Birthday's were also a big family celebration as well. It was all my grandma who made sure it happened.

By her dying when she did, she made sure the entire family spent Thanksgiving together in Chicago. It was pretty amazing - brought back so many childhood memories and makes me so very grateful for all the time we were able to be together.

My grandma used to work at Marshall Field's on State Street in Chicago. When I was little, I remember her taking us downtown to eat lunch in the Walnut Room near the big Christmas tree. She would take us to see the decorated Christmas windows while we ate Frango mints.

I do blame her for my obsession with Christmas in general. Each year of my life, I got a Christmas ornament. When I had children, I stopped getting them and my children got them instead. She died right before Christmas, but had already bought my boys their Christmas ornaments for that year.

It's because of her that all of us "Bresnahan" girls have a shrine to Marshall Field's somewhere in their home. It's because of her I have multiple Christmas trees. It's because of her that I love Uncle Mistletoe and Aunt Holly. It's because of her that the word "camp" makes me giggle - but that's another story for another time! ;)

I miss you gram!

Also on my mind, Scott Harris. Now, he was the complete opposite - he could care less about the holidays. But he would always offer to work so other people could enjoy them with their families. Not a day goes by that he doesn't cross my mind.

I keep thinking I can pick up the phone - and then I remember, I can't. It still doesn't seem real.

My kids love penguins

2011-11-17T18:01:00.001-05:00

My kids have some sort of penguin obsession.

They have multiple stuffed animals, framed prints, bed sheets and more.

Now, a new website has them hooked. Penguin Island is not far from Orlando - just south in Sarasota.

They've come up with a great new campaign to get interest about a new exhibit - Live Penguin Cam!

Why don't more places do this?

My kids are hooked and want to go there. In the meantime, we are watching them a lot.

Here's what we saw today.

IMG_0143-2.MOV Watch on Posterous

Merry Christmas from the Cook/Duncan boys!

2011-11-10T21:16:00.001-05:00

Corn maze!

2011-11-06T14:08:00.001-05:00

Hey @TomIzzo - put @brendancook03 on your radar! #futureMSUballer

2011-11-03T19:15:00.001-04:00

Meet Darth Turkey - Our Star Wars Creation

2011-10-30T17:09:00.001-04:00

I love school craft projects. I do. Especially when you are given some freedom and creativity.

Patrick came home with a mission to disguise Thomas the Turkey.

Basically, we had to put a costume on the turkey so he can't be hunted for Thanksgiving.

Here's our project.

What do you think? Any other good ideas?

See the full gallery on Posterous

Family dinner: Spaghettio Casserole

2011-10-30T16:23:00.001-04:00

As you should know by now if you at all pay attention, I rarely cook.

I bake - but don't cook.

Last week I was inspired. It all has to do with the site Pinterest. It's filled with great ideas for everything! Since I had Monday off from work, I decided to make dinner with a recipe I found online...Spaghettio Casserole.

See the full gallery on Posterous

For those of you non-cooker's out there - this was simple.

First - grab a pound of frozen ground beef and brown it. I had to google that. Basically, throw the meat in a HOT pan and make sure it all gets brown.

Layer the bottom of a casserole dish with the beef. Take three small Speghettio cans - or one large and one small can. Pour them on top of the meet.

Take two cups of shredded mozerella cheese and pour it on top of the speghettio's.

Bake in the oven for about 25/30 minutes at 450.

My family actually LOVED it - so hopefully we'll make it again? We'll see.

Oops!

2011-10-29T17:42:00.001-04:00

Reason 4727 why Florida is awesome!

2011-10-29T11:36:00.001-04:00

Cub scout BB gun range! These boys are good with guns!

2011-10-22T10:49:00.001-04:00

Camping with the cub scouts at Camp La No Chee

2011-10-22T10:25:00.001-04:00

Star Wars Pie Crust Cookies

2011-10-19T19:14:00.001-04:00

You all should know by now that I don't like to cook.

But I do like to bake.

I thought I would share with you tonight's creation along with the recipe.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Buy pre-made pie crust.

Roll it out.

Take cookie cutters and cut shapes.

Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon on top.

Bake at 350 for 15 minutes.

Be jealous of my baking abilities!

Much needed...

2011-10-19T11:54:00.001-04:00

Rosie is the best thing to happen to Chicago

2011-10-11T19:59:00.001-04:00

I've finished watching day two of, The Rosie Show, on OWN.

Full disclosure here - I love Rosie. My Rosie items include:

Rosie Fan Club Member
Kids are Punny books
Rosie doll
Rosie Christmas Ornament
Rosie Jacket
Rosie Christmas CD

Knowing that, you can guess how excited I was to see her make her return to television. I don't count her on the view, because I have other issues with that show.

With that said, WELCOME BACK ROSIE! If you haven't watched the show, give it a chance.

It's fun, it's happy, it's inspirational. Rosie is comfortable in this environment. She has a chance to show why she made it in the first place - a chance to do standup during the start of the show.

She sings, she dances, she makes you uncomfortable talking about Spanx.

But the best part of the show, is that it's in Chicago.

There is nothing I love more then seeing my hometown on television.

To make it better, you take this diehard New Yorker and put her in a city that always seems to fall short of New York - and she loves it!

Rosie has nothing but amazing things to say about Chicago, its people and its food.

There's even a section on her website where you can submit to Rosie some of your favorite Chicago foods and activities. Trust me, I've sent a bunch!

There's actually a chance that Rosie can do more for Chicago then Oprah did. Oprah doesn't like to go out and actually be amongst the common folk. Rosie loves to get down and dirty - and I think Chicago is in for some good times ahead.

Just wish I was there...So Ro give me a job? ;)

Wild Turkey!

2011-10-02T11:22:00.001-04:00

Spotted on a beautiful morning bike ride - Wild Turkey in Orlando!
Not the alcohol kind - but the eating kind.
My iPod randomly started playing Christmas music, the temperature is about 80 and the turkeys are ready for Thanksgiving time!
Happy Fall!
Gobble, Gobble!

My Disney License Plate Collection

2011-10-01T17:36:00.001-04:00

In honor of the 40th anniversary today of Walt Disney World, I wanted to share with you all one of my favorite things - Disney license plates.

When I started working at Disney in 1998, I decided I wanted to collect something. Pins were starting to become the big thing, but I easily could see that getting out of control. Mostly because you know it's pretty impossible to own every single one. And what's the point of collecting something if you can't have a goal to complete the set?

A friend of mine, Bruce, mentioned that he started buying Disney license plates. I had always had a thing for regular license plates - not sure why - don't ask....so I figured it could be interesting just to see how far I could take it.

I quickly became obsessed. I have a plate for almost every single Walt Disney World Resort and attraction - I'm only missing the new Hawaii resort. (Hint to my Disney friends!!!) But I have plates from Tokyo, Hong Kong, Paris, Vero Bech, Hilton Head, all over really! All thanks to friends and eBay!

I have well over 200 license plates. I especially like cast member only plates. Sadly, Disney is making less resort-specific items lately. I haven't seen any cast member plates at all. Hopefully I can get a 40th anniversary plate - but so far, no luck!!!

Many have asked me..."but what do you do with them?" Good question!

I have used some of the plates as a border in my son's bedroom. They are something great to look at - and his friends love seeing them when they come over. I also use them as a border in our garage.

Some of my favorite plates can be seen here:

See the full gallery on Posterous

True story - one day I walked out of our kitchen door into the garage and there was a guy standing at our open garage door with a dog on a leash - in our garage.

He scared me to death - and just said..."I'm sorry...I noticed the license plates from the street and couldn't help myself. They are so cool!"

I now make sure to always keep the garage door closed :)

Mickey's Not-So-Scary-Halloween Party!

2011-09-27T20:43:00.001-04:00

It's a family favorite halloween tradition, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom!

This year was a bit different for our boys, mostly because they LOVE Mickey's Toontown, which is closed due to construction. But it did open an opportunity for us to do lots of rides that we normally don't ride. We rode Peter Pan, I think, for the first time EVER in our lives. The boys enjoyed It's a Small World, but about half-way through they were finished.

It's a great event for the whole family. Lots of great people watching opportunities! Check out my photo gallery. You'll see the big giant penguin dad - he was pretty awesome - except for the fact that the rest of his entire family came in regular clothes.

And then there's the male Blow Pop dude - he's a bit...interesting.

The candy was great this year - lots of chocolate - which they haven't had a lot of in years past. You could tell due to all the construction issues the candy areas had to move around a lot. Some seemed a little crowded and the lines were a bit confusing.

But all-in-all, great night by all!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Today, they added a new interactive element to the Halloween party.

A new game called Mickey's Trick or Treat available from Disney on Facebook lets users get in the Halloween spirit by virtually trick-or-treating with online friends and decorating their own porch.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has added signs scattered throughout the park with a code guests can submit in the game and unlock prizes.

The Fall 2011 Television Season - Hits and Misses...

2011-09-26T19:46:00.001-04:00

It's really my favorite time of the year...time for new television shows!

I do a fairly decent job of recording everything on tv at least once...give it a chance...and then decide if I'll record it again.

Warning tv show producers - you are judged on your pilot episodes!

Let's start with the brand new:

The Playboy Club: Hated it. Perhaps it's geared toward men? I'm not so sure, but the story line was weak. Writing was poor - it just didn't move for me. Overall, I haven't seen many positives reviews. I don't expect it to last long at all.

2 Broke Girls: LOVE THIS SHOW. It's a new CBS sitcom. Characters seemed real and believable. A simple premise, girl in New York works at a diner. Rich girl from a Madoff-like family losses everything and lies to get a job at the diner, but doesn't even know how to make coffee. Comedy ensues. This one could last, all depends on where they take these characters.

New Girl: Not to be confused with 2 Broke Girls, New Girl is the big Fox comedy that they are banking on this season. This new show stars Zooey Deschanel and has had a lot of pre-publicity. It's funny, smart and exactly what you expect. Sometimes, that's not a bad thing.

Up All Night: Perhaps the best new comedy of the season. This new show stars Christina Applegate and Will Arnett. Two of my favorite people in the television comedy world are paried together in this totally believable comedy about new parents trying to adjust to working life with baby. This show has a very Modern Family feel. If the writers can keep up, this show could be around for a long time. And I love Maya Rudolph!

Free Agents: This comedy has potential, but walks a fine line to me. This NBC sitcom stars Hank Azeria. Now, I LOVE him in The Simpsons. He's a comedy genius...but only when you don't see him. He's pretty much ruined every other movie that he's been in. Night at the Museum 2?? Terrible performance! I was worried about him in this show, but so far, so good! Funny, good characters, so we'll see where this goes!

Charlie's Angels: I thought the first episode was terrible. I actually deleted it off the DVR about 20 minutes in. Perhaps it wasn't a fair shake, but I couldn't take it anymore. Not sure how long I expect this one to be on the air!

Whitney: I think Whitney Cummings is hilarious. I want this show to be successful...I think. It's in 30 Rock's spot right now, so not sure what's going to happen there once the schedule shakes out. I like the characters in this show, but the comedy seems a little forced. I'm not sure if I like the "this show is filmed before a live studio audience" thing, but it has potential.

Pan Am: I think this is my big surprise show of the season. I watched the first five minutes and was hooked. Once the show was over, I looked back over the credits and realized why I loved it so much. Two words: Thomas Schlamme.

My new favorite show this year is not a prime-time show at all...it's daytime baby!

Anderson: Cooper Anderson gets his own television show and I declare it a success! It's funny, honest, and he's managed to get some big names on his show in such a short time! PLUS, I love that Kathy Griffin is on a lot so far. She makes him so uncomfortable, and it's hilarious to watch him squirm.

Still waiting to see ABC's Suburgatory, that will air on Wednesday. Also looking forward to How to be a Gentleman, which airs Thursday on CBS. That will go against Parks and Recreation, which is pretty damn awesome.

Next time we'll talk about what I've taken off my DVR list....like Desperate Housewives. And some of my favorite returning shows, like The Good Wife. And what do you guys think about Grey's Anatomy these days?

Discuss...what are your favorites? What should I be watching that I'm not?

Scott Harris - The Journalist

2011-09-13T12:14:00.001-04:00

I met Scott Harris 11 years ago, when I started at Central Florida News 13.

I was hired as a news producer, and started working the night shift. The anchor at the time, Scott Harris.

I didn't know much about the man, but I knew what that I was scared of him.

He was a serious journalist. An "old school" news man who would question and rewrite every single story before he read it.

"Who wrote this?" "Why is this news?" "Where did we get this information" All these were common questions for each story he was asked to read on the air.

As a producer, the worst answer you could give was, "I don't know."

He would insist on getting the facts straight. And if it was a story he just didn't like, or didn't think was news, get ready. He would cut the majority of the story and you'd be left with three sentences and about a :15 second story. Makes it hard as a producer to build the show.

Scott always explained that being an anchor was about much more then just being on television. He was the face, yes, but it was his responsibility to the viewer to make sure they trusted him. It's his reputation on the line, not mine as the producer. No one at home knows who I am.

This made him one of the greatest teachers in my life.

He taught me the difference between county/city government; the difference between police/sheriff; the difference between council members and commissioners.

But his single greatest gift, his knowledge of politics and space.

Even just having Scott do one quick NASA-related story, you could tell this man knew his stuff.

I remember the very first time I wrote a shuttle package script for him, and he didn't change a word. I remember exactly where I was at that time, because it was such a big deal. I really thought, "I finally get it." But I don't think I ever will...

By 2003, I was promoted to Executive Producer. One Saturday morning my pregnant self was home in pajamas, eating Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and flipping tv channels. I was the "on-call" manager that day and I knew there was a shuttle landing, so I thought I should pay attention.

I turned on NASA TV and all was well...but just a few minutes later there was a comment that there was no communication with space shuttle Columbia, and I knew (thanks to Scott's previous lectures on the subject) that while there was a time when communication was lost, there was a specific time period that it should be restored, so if it wasn't, something may be wrong.

My first phone call, to Scott Harris. This is how I remember the phone call...

ME: "Hey Scott, it's Jen...are you watching the shuttle landing?"
SCOTT: "I just woke up and was about to turn it on....what's up?"
ME: "GET TO WORK. NASA lost communication with the shuttle."

He hung up and was at work 30 minutes or so later. One of the best decisions I've ever made as a manager.

He sat on the anchor desk for hours, with my other good friend Jennifer Roberts. And the two of them made some television magic.

Scott asked for us to get him a model of the space shuttle so he can demonstrate to viewers what had happened to Columbia upon return into the earth's orbit. And that wasn't an easy task! We called all around and could only find models of shuttles in thousands of pieces that had to be put together. Finally, one appeared and again, television magic.

That was just one of the many days that Scott Harris hands down beat those network news guys. He seemed to have the shuttle operation manual memorized and was able to break it down in a way that no one could ever match.

It was also this day that I realized Scott was much more then just an "anchorman." He was a lover of knowledge, a former engineer in the Air Force and had emotions, because during a short "smoke break" he was visibility upset at the destruction of the space shuttle. It was an emotion that I had not seen before now.

It was also at this point, at least in my memory, that Scott and I became a team. Something clicked between us that we just understood each other, trusted each other and began to rely on the other to push through the tough times.

For some reason, the work bosses let us just go and produce television. We went to political events, shuttle launches/landings, even drove to a meeting about water in St. Augustine. Stories that no other station really ever touched, especially in the way Scott did.

We would spend hours in the car together, where he would basically lecture me on our surroundings, or the importance of the people we met or events we witnessed.

He would introduce me to people as, "Jen's my Don Hewitt." Sometimes he would throw out other random names, and I would try to remember them so I could run home and google what he was talking about.

We shared great knowledge, great laughs and great memories. He would share his history-rich knowledge, and I would verse him on my pop-culture knowledge. He was the yin to my yang.

He would make it a point to "get out of the building" daily during lunch, to "clear your head." We went to lunch almost daily, and would rarely ever talk about anything work-related. It was always about an issue or idea.

We would also joke that people probably thought we were a couple...and older man with a younger woman. He would talk about his son, his sailing, the cats that lived in his backyard "jungle." He let me see him more then just a newsman, but a real man.

He would walk me to my car every night, making sure I got there safe. He would send me off with a big sigh, and then..."See ya Jen....enjoy your kids...have a good night..."[[posterous-content:pid___1]]

Scott Harris - The one and only

2011-08-27T07:53:00.001-04:00

Sometimes there are no words, only pictures.

See the full gallery on Posterous

It's back to school time!

2011-08-22T20:01:00.001-04:00

It was sad to say goodbye to what was a very fun and very busy summer!

This school year is a big one for the Cook Family!

B is now in third grade - which means FCAT!

And P is now in Kindergarten! Crazy that they are at the same school!

They both have amazing teachers and I think it's going to be a great year ahead!

P wanted to take his baby penguin to school. His name is baby Pengy.

This weekend I was able to find a "baby, baby Pengy" as a keychain he can put on his backpack. So P was super excited that his baby got to go to school with him!

See the full gallery on Posterous

When I picked them up from school, they both said they had great days.

B liked his teacher and kids in the class. He had PE which was fun and he started learning cursive.

P said "most of the kids were bad today." And he made two new friends, "apparenly I forgot their names."

He had art class today, "They made me paint. I don't like to paint. They made us paint circles and straight lines. I don't like to paint lines. They are so, so, so, so boring."

And since school went so well, the boys got to decide dinner....Sushi! Expensive kids! :)

Fun at Aquatica!

2011-08-21T19:19:00.003-04:00

p541.mov Watch on Posterous

Enjoying the last day of summer with some water park fun at Sea World's Aquatica!
This was the awesome racing slide!

Fun at Aquatica!

2011-08-21T19:19:00.001-04:00

p541.mov Watch on Posterous

Enjoying the last day of summer with some water park fun at Sea World's Aquatica!
This was the awesome racing slide!

My little man is ready for kindergarten!

2011-08-19T14:41:00.001-04:00

Mini Apple Pies

2011-08-17T20:03:00.001-04:00

I enjoy baking - but I don't often have time to do anything more then chocolate chip cookies.

Recently, I got a mini-muffin tin. Not sure why really - but I feel like I can do more things because it's a smaller portion.

Like maybe I can try things - and if they don't turn out, doesn't matter because they were small!

Patrick really likes "gooby" - for some reason that's what he calls Apple Pie.

Nana makes the best gooby - but I thought I would give it a shot.

The funny thing about my boys- Brendan likes the crust, not the insides. Patrick likes the insides, not the crust.

So I found this recipe that kind of mixed the two...

See the full gallery on Posterous

They are too cute for words and too good to have around the house!!

Easy recipe and they are amazing!

Even Patrick approves!

My sweet sick snoring Patrick- being bothered by his brother.

2011-08-15T21:05:00.001-04:00

p518.mov Watch on Posterous

My sweet sick snoring Patrick

2011-08-15T20:54:00.001-04:00

p510.mov Watch on Posterous

My sweet sick snoring Patrick

2011-08-15T20:53:00.001-04:00

p510.mov Watch on Posterous

My new Walt Disney World charm bracelet

2011-08-14T14:35:00.001-04:00

I'm kind-of like Rain Man when it comes to shopping at Disney World.

I can walk into a store and within two minutes pick out all the new merchandise. It's a gift.

As part of the Walt Disney World 40th celebration, there is a slew of fab new merchandise.

The only one I HAD TO HAVE immediately was this amazing charm bracelet. It was only about $45 dollars and just perfect!

See the full gallery on Posterous

I love the Florida charm - with the rhinestone Mickey head.

I also love the center charm, which is the Partners statue with Walt and Mickey.

It's Philips Phile Poker Tournament time!

2011-08-13T14:19:00.001-04:00

I've got my tickets! Do you?

It's THE event of the year people!

The Philips Phile Charity Poker Tournament is great for poker players like my husband. He came in 11th place year - just outside of trophy territory.

But I need something to do while he plays. I can only take so many pictures without looking like a crazy stalker. But this tournament does a great job providing OTHER entertainment.

They have other casino games, some great food, good drinks and a nice silent auction.

Great food, great company and good times! Get more information.

Here are some photos from the event last year.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Directions on my medicine- I take it to mean Do Not Exercise!

2011-08-11T18:27:00.001-04:00

A not so fun Thursday- if you must know!

2011-08-11T15:04:00.001-04:00

Still sick - but look what my family left me

2011-08-10T09:31:00.001-04:00

I love my boys...

Spiderman: The Musical

2009-02-24T18:48:00.002-05:00

An official opening date for the Broadway incarnation of Spider-Man - the musical! - has been announced!

Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark will officially kick off on Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Broadway's Hilton Theatre.

Preview performances of the show will begin Saturday, January 16, 2010.

The production will be directed by Julie Taymor, of The Lion King fame.

Music will be done by U2's Bono and The Edge.

You know you love me...xoxo

2009-02-24T17:59:00.001-05:00

This is the kind of news that makes me happy:

"The CW has announced renewals for six series for next season.

Coming back will be "Gossip Girl," "One Tree Hill," "90210," "America's Next Top Model," "Smallville" and "Supernatural."

"These six shows have clearly contributed to strengthening our schedule and our brand identity,” Dawn Ostroff, president of CW Entertainment, said in a release."

I love Gossip Girl- LOVE IT! I admit to DVR'ing 90210- it's a good show to watch when there is nothing else on. I've never gotten into Next Top Model- but you never know!!

Oscar Snark-A-Thon

2009-02-22T17:20:00.000-05:00

Oscars Snark-A-Thon

Womanizer

2009-02-01T12:51:00.004-05:00

Brendan and Patrick love the Britney Spears song, Womanizer...or "Bugernizer" and Patrick calls it...
And yes- I was driving while I recorded this- however....the camera was resting on the passenger seat and I wasn't zooming or anything....I was NOT being dangerous

25 Things About Me

2009-02-01T08:19:00.000-05:00

About Me:
1. I’m addicted to celebrity gossip- love me some TMZ, Perez Hilton…
2. I love NASCAR
3. When I’m nervous, anxious, bored or deep in thought- I pick at my finger nails…I’ve never had long ones
4. I have a bit of obsessive compulsive disorder in me…shocking I know…but it runs in the family!
5. I once broke a giant fish tank with a baton- it was on accident- I think.
6. I once hit my sister in the face with a baseball bat- it was on accident- I think.
7. I think Tina Fey and I would be best friends if we ever met.
8. I’ve met lots of celebrities in my life; Britney Spears, Michael J. Fox, John Stamos, Rebecca Romijn, Levar Burton, Scott Hamilton, Michael Damian, Donny Osmond, Nsync boys, 98 Degrees boys, Matt Laur, Brian Williams, Tony Bennett, Samuel L. Jackson, Tiger Woods, Huey Lewis, James Avery (Dad from Fresh Prince), Dennis Haskins (Mr. Belding!), Tia and Tamera, thanks to my Disney Days..the list goes on and on…
9. I never thought I would survive with boys as children- since I had two sisters. But I can’t picture my life any other way and wouldn’t trade it for the world. All three of my boys are the best things that have ever happened to me.
10. I generally, don’t like people. I have lots of friends…but really only a few good friends. People mostly see me as outgoing- but I find myself socially awkward.
11. I really do love my job. I like putting things together, trying new things, knowing news first and doing things others only dream of. It’s just hard to remember that it’s cool sometimes!
12. I am deathly afraid of bridges. Mostly bridges that open up- like drawbridges…But I’m also not a fan of long causeway-type bridges- which means I will never visit Key West- unless it’s by cruise ship- because I won’t drive and I won’t fly on a tiny plane.
13. If I could get away with it- I would swear my pajamas or my robe ALL DAY LONG everyday of the week.
14. I am trying desperately to loose weight. I have come to realize that I haven’t “worked out” since high school gym class- so I’ve become somewhat of an addict to working out lately- and will hopefully soon see some results.
15. I am almost 33 and still get acne like a teenager.
16. My parents had a kegerator in our basement growing up- I miss it. One of my best childhood memories is going with him to the liquor store to get a new keg…because they had the best lollipops.
17. I desperately miss our home in Northbrook, Illinois. I have dreams all the time about that house- I lived there from day one until I went to college.
18. I have been lucky enough to never had to work in food service. I don’t want to touch food, plates, or anything nasty that people leave at a restaurant. Most of my jobs…since high school…have been in television!
19. I can’t sleep until everyone in my house is home. If Scott works late- I’m up until he gets back. I can’t relax until I know everyone is safe. I get scared at every noise until he’s home. I’ve been that way my entire night and don’t think I have EVER slept alone (and I’m not talking about the bed- I just mean in a house)…expect in a hotel room- but that’s different in some weird way.
20. I write for a living- and still don’t think I’m a good writer.
21. I’m really good, and I mean REALLY good, with directions. I have a weird visual memory thing going on and pretty much never get lost. You can thank my dad for that.
22. I’ve seen Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at least 28 times- and all have professional productions of the show. I could act it out for you- but would need to be really drunk!
23. I secretly wish I could perform on Broadway- but I can’t sing, have little coordination to dance- and really, can’t act.
24. I took figure skating and bowling in college.
25. I will not go into the water unless there is chlorine. I have a major fish phobia.

CFNews 13 Widget

2009-01-22T15:18:00.001-05:00

Purse Love

2008-12-16T19:35:00.003-05:00

I love purses- I just have a thing about them...love em....can't have enough of them...

I just acquired a new one that I love so much- I wanted to share it with the world....

See- it's LIKE a Coach purse- but with Mickey Mouse....it's pure love.

I Like 'Em Fake...

2008-11-30T17:40:00.003-05:00

The fake tree is misunderstood and under-appreciated.
I happen to love a good fake Christmas tree.

I was raised with a fake tree. A totally chessy, plastic...totally FAKE looking SEARS Christmas tree.
My mother even put a pine tree scented mini-wax tree inside of it to help give it that real flair...it didn't work.

She always told me we had a fake tree because of my dad and my allergies.
The thing is...I never wanted a real one....I was fine with the fakeness...
There is something about knowing this same tree shares your memories from year to year...but there is more...so much more:

1) Technology...these days- you almost can't tell a real from a fake tree- they really have spent lots of money to make them more realistic.

2) The mess- there is virtually NONE with a fake tree

3) Pre-strung lights- best invention ever!!

4) No watering!

5) No worries of it drying out or totally dying!

6) No need for the tacky tree tents to pop up all over my neighborhood!!

7) It has to be really bad for the environment to cut down all those trees!!!

I'm sure there are more reasons- but those are mine...please let me know if you have any that I didn't think of!!!

It's the reason why Christmas is only once a year...

2008-11-15T10:41:00.003-05:00

Christmas lights!!!

I am attempting to put up our trees....
but I've spent the last hour and a half trying to figure out why one string of lights on our pre-lit tree won't light up!

You know it's a bad sign when you take the tree out of the box and a light bulb falls out....
I still can't find the missing link!!!!!!

More adventures to come...
Future blog topics:
How many christmas trees are too many?
Real tree vs. fake tree?
Tree themes??
I have answers to them all!

I can see....

2008-10-29T22:26:00.002-04:00

I can see Jimmy Smits from my chair...
He's onstage at the Obama rally..
It's interesting- because he was President Santos in the West Wing....
and if you watched that show- you might notice a lot of similarities between Obama and Santos....I swear...that show is predicting the future!

Blogging with Obama...

2008-10-29T21:15:00.002-04:00

(Sung to the song...Rollin with the homies....)

It's after 9pm...I'm in beautiful Kissimmee....
Outside....it's 50 degrees...and windy....

And we're waiting for Obama.....and Bill Clinton....
There are thousands of people here. We won't know crowd estimates until later in the night- but they are hoping to beat the 50,000 that were in downtown Orlando last week with just Hillary Clinton.

I'm still amazed at the people this man can draw...grandmothers...grandchildren...media from around the world!
In fact, I'm now sitting next to someone from Australia...
It's just nuts...more to come!

My Day Was Going So Well....

2008-10-08T19:54:00.004-04:00

I've always hated that intersection...
Mitchell Hammock and Lockwood in Oviedo...
Whoever designed it should be, at the very least, fired.

Mind you...I've been driving since I was 17...never been in an accident...15 years- no worries....And my poor Kamy...that's the name of my car....she's a mess! It's sad- but yes- she can be fixed!!

Traffic suddenly slowed...the car in front of me quickly slowed to a stop. I followed- but then looked in my rearview mirror and realized that the Ford F-150 was not about to slow down at all....

I yelled..HOLD ON BRENDAN....
And then crash.....He plowed into me pretty hard- and I slammed into the car in front of me...
Here's the back of my car..

The Front...

The good news- my air bag didn't engage- so at least I can still drive it!
The car in front of me had a trailer post- so it just put that hole in my front bumper- and he had little damage....
The truck behind me was such a big truck it had so little damage- but his airbag went off- so they had to tow him away.
Apparently it's illegal to drive a car once an airbag has been engaged.

It was a sheer moment of panic...I made sure Brendan was ok-- made sure everyone else was ok....found my phone- and called my dad....
He was first...which is weird...but I was close to his house and told him to come help me...
Then 911....and then Scott...

It's been a day....now the fun part with insurance and dealerships and loaner cars....Fun...Fun...Fun!

At least no one was hurt!!!

An email from my husband...

2008-10-06T13:02:00.001-04:00

I can't make this stuff up!

From Scott Cook:
Came home... and here's a new one...

A cat took a dook on our bed...

Yep... one big load...

From the size of it, you would it thought it was Brendan... but he was at school...

Now... I already had the comforter in the washing machine. So this ended up on the white mid-blanket thing...

I am assuming a cat was not feeling good, since there was also some on the couch (a small nugget)... and puke in a couple of spots...

So now I am gonna move the bed around and vacuum underneath that too... to ensure there is not more poop spots...

It is always something around this place, isn't it?!?!?

Ups and Downs...

2008-10-04T15:01:00.004-04:00

"There's nothing worse than a sick child...."
That's not entirely true- something worse is when they are sick- and you don't know what it is.
Take a look at this!!

Patrick came home last night with a massive rash on his legs- all over...up to the butt...

We spent hours trying to find the cause...

After a warm bath and some pj's- the rash went away...
Today- more bumps came back on other parts of the body....

I went into mom freakout mode...
According to the doctor- it's MOST LIKELY a bacterial infection- and that's how it's trying to work itself out of his body.
In the meantime- it's lots of liquids and rest....
RIGHT...try explaining that to a 2-year-old.

What did you invent??

2008-09-16T11:23:00.001-04:00

My favorite story of the day:

Adviser says McCain helped create the BlackBerry
MIAMI (AP) - Al Gore may lay claim to the Internet, but John
McCain may have a high-tech achievement of his own.
A top McCain policy adviser says the Republican presidential
nominee helped create the BlackBerry.
Waving his BlackBerry personal digital assistant, Douglas
Holtz-Eakin told reporters, "You're looking at the miracle that
John McCain helped create."
McCain has acknowledged that he doesn't know how to use a
computer and can't send e-mail -- one of the primary functions of a
Blackberry.
Holtz-Eakin claims McCain's service on and leadership of the
Senate Commerce Committee put him at the intersection of a number
of economic interests, including the telecommunications industry.
The argument is similar to one advanced by Gore. The 2000
Democratic presidential nominee once boasted about "taking the
initiative to create the Internet" through technological and
educational policies.

Blog in Pictures

2008-09-11T18:50:00.006-04:00

The outer, outer bands of Hurricane Ike have been causing some random strong storms...here are some pictures leaving a storm in downtown Orlando today...

I loved these clouds...

Look out the clouds curve...it's fascinating...

Just now- there was a big cat fight between Jack and Bailey...this is what is left...yes- that's all cat hair...and yes- from the same cat...All Bailey hair....our carpet is beige!

Seven years ago....

2008-09-11T09:09:00.003-04:00

September 11th...
I think today should be a national holiday..
no work...no school...no events....

It's all just too weird to see a political fundraiser "Come party with us...September 11th"

Favorite AP News Alert Of The Day

2008-09-10T14:44:00.000-04:00

WASHINGTON (AP) - Investigators reveal illicit sex trysts
between government oil brokers, energy company employees

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-09-10-08 1408EDT

Public School

2008-09-09T18:19:00.003-04:00

Brendan is now in his fourth week of Kindergarten at a public school.
He has gone to preschool for the last two years at a private church-run school.
This adjustment to public school is not going so well- at least for us parents.

It seems that while it's public school...it's not cheap.
Everyday there is something we need to pay for...
$7 for a school shirt...
$5 for PTA membership...
Third day of class- a school fundraiser selling crap....
$2.50 for an "in-house" field trip to some puppet show....

And not only that- but threatening notes...like "IF people don't pay for this field trip- we will be forced to cancel all field-trips for all students"

We don't have a class list...
We've already had two hurricane days- which you wouldn't think would be a big deal- but apparently it has thrown the entire school schedule off- and we are now getting newsletters home that are literally weeks behind...

Brendan has about 45 minutes of homework a night..
When I was in Kindergarten- it was only a half day- and there was no such thing as homework!
Now- he's at school for about 8 hours- and then has 45 minutes of homework almost every night...my how times have changed.....

The Tale of Two Candidates....

2008-09-08T18:52:00.006-04:00

Most people don't get to experience what I've recently experienced...meeting the next President of the United States.
It's pretty intense sitting in a room with the would-be president...but it's also interesting how two men- both wanting the same job- are just SO different...

Monday:

Told we have an exclusive one-on-one interview with Sen. John McCain.
Arrive at Brevard Community College in Melbourne.
Go through a security check. Lots of sweet looking dogs that want to play- and attack.
Told we are the pool media camera for a statement the Senator will make about his vision for future spaceflight. We are housed with national media...some big names in the room.
I try to act cool- all while drooling over the food the national media enjoy.

(Photo: Orlando Sentinel photographer Joe Burbank enjoys his lunch)

We are not allowed to eat the food, as national media has to pay to eat- and we aren't cool enough to be included in that group!

After lunch, the Senator makes his statement and walks away without taking questions.
We are immediately rushed to a different room- where are are in a mad dash to set up the equipment.
The press guy with McCain asks us to look through the view finder so he can approve the shot.

Suddenly, the room fills with worker bees rushing "here comes the Senator...Here comes the Senator"

In walks McCain, who says hello and sits down. With him are Senators Mel Martinez and Joe Lieberman. Martinez jokes with reporter Scott Harris about old high school days...McCain looks on noticing the fact they know each other.

Two women come into the room- one working on his hair- the other touching up his makeup. I come to find out McCain can't lift up his arms- an injury from his POW days- so he has to have people brush his hair for him.

The interview begins- with a sea on onlookers...including the two Senators- a number of secret service agents- and a large amount of people from his campaign/press office. I would say in all, about 30 people...if not more...were watching.

They were also recording. A number of digital audio records were on, taping everything.

The interview was great- about 7 minutes later someone (I swear it was one of the makeup people) gave me the sign to wrap it up. I thought about ignoring her- but then again- there were lots of people with guns around....so we wrapped it up.

McCain was very nice and shook hands with everyone- and then was whisked away....

Tuesday:
Told we have an exclusive one-on-one interview with Sen. Barack Obama.
We arrive at the Orange County Convention Center- and told to meet behind the media riser after the interview.
We do as told- and are taken to a closet. This particular closet is home to every make and model of cord ever made. Cords of all different shapes, sizes and lengths are all organized in bins all around the mason brick room.
We are shown where to set up the camera- we do so...and are told to wait by the entrance to the closet to wait for the Senator- who first has a radio interivew.
As we are waiting, we are talking to a secret service agent- asking if it is a job requirement that you are not allowed to smile. Needless to say, he started smiling...in walked another secret service agent...who our first guy got to smile as well. All is good- and before you know it, in walks Senator Obama.
He walks up to me, shakes my hand...says hello to my co-workers, and is whisked away for a radio interview.
We wait about five minutes- and then our turn.
We are standing in the corner of this closet- in front of a blue curtain and a flag...and the interview begins.

In contrast to the McCain interview, the Obama campaign maybe has about three people in there- and they were way back.
At one point, about seven minutes later- one woman gave me a wrap sign- we wrapped it up- and the Senator just hung around talking to everyone, until someone from him campaign had to move him along.

My thoughts:

I felt like the way the McCain camp controlled things- they were almost afraid McCain was going to say something damaging...it appeared like the Obama campaign was so confident in his skills, that they weren't worried about what he might say.

My crazy life

2008-08-16T12:17:00.003-04:00

I'm not looking for sympathy- just a little understanding ;)

I feel like I'm in the middle of an anxiety attack!

Here's my situation.....
1. Primary Elections August 26th- over 100 local races- I'm in charge of all coverage- which is pretty intense...

2. Monday- John McCain comes to Orlando
Tuesday- Barack Obama comes to Orlando
Wednesday- President Bust comes to Orlando.
I'm in charge of all coverage

3. Tropical Storm Fay looks like it's going to nail us about Tuesday/Wednesday...
I'm not in charge of coverage- but I'm sure I'll be involved!

4. My little Brendan starts Kindergarten on Monday!!! In the middle of all this work I'm supposed to be a mom!
I'm not ready- I don't think we've prepared him as much as we could have!
I'm totally freaking!

On top of that- I'm dealing with two different campaigns and the white house- none of which are very forthcoming with information and logistics...

Through all this- I'm actually supposed to be spending a relaxing weekend camping...
I type this right now at the Fort Wilderness Campground- we have a lovely cabin for the weekend- a sort of farewell to summer "stay"cation...
Instead of relaxing, I'm obsessing over emails and logistics- praying for emails so I can just go to the pool....

Only 11 weeks until the November election- and then I can relax..
So basically the whole reason I write this is an excuse for any of my behaviour over the next few months!!!!

Anyone want to either
1- Offer help on how to relax?
or
2- Take bets on when my head will explode?

Chicago: By The Numbers

2008-07-28T15:08:00.002-04:00

Hot dogs eaten: 8
Times I've gotten yelled at for wanting ketchup on said hot dog: 2
Hours sitting in traffic on the Edens or Tri-State Toll-way: I'm guessing about 6
Beers drunk: Countless
CTA bus rides: 2
CTA Train rides: 14
Miles driven in rental car: 364
Flights I've been on trying to get out of Chicago: 4
Amount of happy American Airlines workers willing to help me after flights have been cancelled: 0
Airplanes I was supposed to be on that have been deemed "not flight worthy" by the FAA: 1
People that are on the standby line trying to get on my flight out of Chicago to Orlando: 21

Saying Goodbye

2008-07-05T08:27:00.003-04:00

My grandpa passed away this week- we are now heading up to Wisconsin for funeral services- here is the official obit from the Chicago Tribune:
John R. "Jack" Bresnahan, age 81, of Burlington, passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2008, at Burr Oak Manor in Genoa City. He was born Dec. 28, 1926, in Chicago, IL, to Timothy A. and Catherine, nee Guilfoyle, Bresnahan. John served in the United States Army. Jack worked as a greeter at WalMart until September of 2007 and was also a retired truck driver and a member of the 705 Union. Survivors include his loving wife, MaryAnne Bresnahan of Burlington; their children, Timothy (Carol)
Bresnahan of Florida, Patricia (Pat) Pastore of Arizona, Daniel Bresnahan of Minnesota and Mary Kay (Victor) Winandy of Illinois; 10 grandchildren; and eight great-grandsons. John was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, James Bresnahan. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, July 7, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church with Rev. Jeff Thielen officiating. Burial will follow at So. WI Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Sunday, July 6, from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m., at Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory , 625 Browns Lake Dr., Burlington, WI 53105.
-----------------------------------------------------

These are some of the amazing things I will always remember about my grandpa- things that you can't print in the obit!!

*When I was little I didn't like to kiss him because his facial hair tickled my face

*He always had jokes to share- most of them were dirty, but I didn't realize that until I was older... "I once had a girlfriend with a wooden leg- her name was Peg"

*He loved animals- especially his sweet Irish Setter named Mick...and lots of kitties...
Poor Mick died a tragic death, being runover by a combine on the farm...it was awful- but at least now grandpa is back with his dog in heaven

*I never really knew what my grandpa's name really was...people called him John, Jack and everyone at "camp" called him Irish

*Every year- he took us to camp. For one week every summer until I was about 12 or so- we would pack up and head to Burlington, Wisconsin
If you dare: http://www.sunrayhills.com
As a child- it really wasn't a bad place- we had so much fun, made so many friends and never thought twice about not being allowed to wear clothes in the pool....
But as I grew up- I thought it was very odd to watch my grandpa play volleyball.
I will never forget my high school graduation party- when he stated that he couldn't play volleyball with all of his clothes on...I got some strange looks....

*He took us to what I like to remember as "heaven on earth"...
Chocolate Fest- and it still continues today: http://www.chocolatefest.com/
I blame him for my chocolate addiction.

*For my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary, I interviewed them both- and was able to put together a movie with lots of old pictures. I'm so thankful that we had the chance to sit down and get all of his wit, humor and memories down on tape to treasure forever.

Go Discovery!

2008-05-31T13:04:00.002-04:00

Hello world...
I continue my Central Florida travels...
Today- LIVE from Kennedy Space Center....Right now- we're about four hours from launch....
And I'm sitting about 100 feet from the big giant countdown clock- and right across the water from the space shuttle on the launchpad....
It's pretty cool- but HOT!
More to come- of course- complete coverage on News 13.com

Obama

2008-05-21T17:17:00.003-04:00

I'm in Kissimmee right now- the mecca of excitement in the Orlando area....
But it's more about who I'm with- that where I am....
It's Barack time baby!
I am not supporting a particular candidate- and when I decide who I will vote for- even then I won't share it.
But I've got to say- there's something about being out in the crowd- the excitement- the energy...people really want "change" and think Obama is the guy to bring it.
There are some strange people here too!
I kid you not- I saw a girl- wearing a pink "I'm a Goddess" t-shirt- pink- (and way too short) shorts and pink fuzzy slippers...she was pregnant- and smoking...
Gotta Love Kissimmee...

It's Barack time.....gotta go- but more to come!

Exciting TV News

2008-05-14T17:03:00.000-04:00

The 70's classic Electric Company is coming back to PBS!
Y'all can look forward to hearing kids across the land screaming EC's famous opening, "Hey you guys!"
Production on the new Electric Company started this week, Tuesday.
The show’s new format will encompass interactive online elements and community-based activities across the country.
Music for the show's being looked after by Broadway babes, Chris Jackson, Thomas Kail and Bill Sherman (all from musical In the Heights, which was just nominated for a bunch of Tony awards).

Spiderman lives!

2008-05-08T14:56:00.001-04:00

From my sister- about my nephew:

Last night the kids got to bed a bit later than normal. Colin and I had picked up Mom from the airport, and she had given Colin a pen that had the pillsbury doughboy on it. Unbeknownst to me, he took that pen out of my purse and brought it to bed with him. Conor, he falls asleep FAST, but Colin usually plays in his room, with the nightlight on, for at least an hour. I went in to check on him, and I figured that he must be asleep because it was quiet. Boy was I wrong! I found a boy COVERED in ink! He had colored onhis face, arms, hands, neck, legs and feet! Then I took him outside to show his father, and I realized that he had colored on his chest and butt and even inside his ear and belly button!!! I was pretty mad, (seriously, how long is it going to take to scrub ink off of him and I'm already tired??), but then listen to his answer...Colin, what were you thinking?? "I just wanted a Spiderman suit." He had drawn the spiderman web all over his body. It's pretty funny, right?? Oh, and it took about 15 minutes of scrubbing, FYI.

Great Lakes Tour 2008

2008-04-28T18:09:00.004-04:00

The Cooks continues the Great Lakes Tour 2008- hitting popular destinations including:
ChicagoDeerfieldGlenviewNorthbrookGurneeNow- we’re onto Michigan…Dexter, Dearborn, Plymouth and East Lansing- and I’m sure some others along the way.

We’ve been busy- and have eaten a lot!

Here’s some of the excitement…

Friday started early with the plane ride and landing in Chicago.
We went to pick up the rental car- they (Thrifty) decided that a 2-door Sebring convertible was perfect for us….thankfully, Scott had enough sense to update to a mini-van. Yes, it cost a little more- but it’s worth it in the long run if he doesn’t have to hear me complain all week.

Next- pick up Katie and head to …eat.Went to a great place called Stanley’s. Look it up next time you’re in Chicago- it’s awesome. Trivia: What restaurant did it used to be?? Answer- Jim McMahon’s- we went there once for Julie’s birthday.
Then- off to Lincoln Park Zoo- so much fun….We had a gorilla try to place with Brendan through the class- that scared him too much for it to be fun…we laughed though! He also wants a Polar Bear- Brendan and one of the bears bonded…Brendan did say the bear can sleep in his bed…so that at least works for us!

The highlight of the day for the grownups….

Then for dinner- Connie’s Pizza- simply the best around.

It’s right next to Chinatown in the city. Ironically enough, breaking news down the street made getting home a challenge.Some trucker crashed his truck into the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) Chinatown station- killing at least 2 people. My dad called from Florida during our dinner to tell us about it. We would have had no idea otherwise. Thankfully- we were safe stuffing ourselves silly.
Saturday- hung out with some family and went to Northbrook to let the kids run around the park. But man- I know it’s colder in the Midwest normally, but this is nuts!!! 45 degrees in April…almost May! Tonight there’s even a chance of snow!!! (Which Brendan is really excited about.)
Sunday- family day…then to one of our other favorite restaurants…Hackney’s.

Yes- the trip is all about food.
We’ve left the icy rain and are now in Michigan.
More to come!!

Noises Patrick's Afraid of...

2008-04-07T19:05:00.002-04:00

*Thunder
*The dishwasher
*The ice machine
*The vaccum
*The dryer buzzer
*The garage door
*Barking Dogs

It makes life fun and exciting :)

On a dark, stormy night...

2008-04-06T10:53:00.003-04:00

no one slept.
We have a problem at the Cook household.
Patrick is scared of thunder.
Freak out, come running and crying to mommy kind-of scared.
Sometimes this is cute- during afternoon thunderstorms.

However, it's NOT fun during the middle of the night.
Take last night for example- it started storming around 4pm.
We went to bed around 7pm- all in my bed. Brendan immediately passed out.
Patrick was awake for two hours.
Finally he fell asleep- after kicking me out of my own bed!

Scott came home- moved the boys into their own beds- and finally I got some good sleep...until about 1am when Patrick came running into our room screaming and crying. He was soooo scared- it took him over an hour to calm down...
Then he woke up again around 4am....same thing....
Brendan was up and ready for the day at 6am.

All the fun = no sleep for mom.

So this morning I asked Patrick- jokingly...what are we going to do with you?
Brendan answered- well, we're going to have to move- all it does here is rain and storm.

There you go...out of the mouth of a four-year-old.

Silly Monkey

2008-04-04T11:38:00.002-04:00

This is my favorite story of the day...
Although it's sad that if money's are supposed to be so smart- that he actually fell for the old banana routine :)

Animal control crews have caged the wild monkey that was running loose in a west Orlando neighborhood.

"The monkey has been caged and is on its way to the animal control facility," Sgt. Barbara Jones of the Orlando Police Department said. "Animal control threw a banana out on a string and lured the monkey into a cage."

Records show that residents of Studio Apartments in the 5500 block of Conroy Road reported the loose primate at 9:20 a.m. Jones said it is unclear if the monkey belongs to a resident at the apartment complex. She said the monkey appears to be a chimpanzee, according to police at the scene.

Crews spent less than an hour caging the monkey.

Pee-pee on the Potty

2008-03-26T19:34:00.001-04:00

It's official...after a big battle- Patrick has done it!
Finally gone pee-pee on the potty!
It's a big deal in our house!!

Need I say more?

2008-03-23T12:05:00.000-04:00

Marching On....

2008-03-19T17:56:00.002-04:00

March is just flying by!
I hope the luck of the irish touched you in some way this past weekend!
It was odd having St. Patrick's day on a Monday!

It's been a month of changes....lots of changes at work- and some changes in my family.
We've gotten word that my grandmother is just hanging onto life in a Wisconsin hospital- that has kind-of freaked me out.
She's the one who's made us all St. Patrick's Day freaks....and has given all lots of fun stories about nudiest camps....trust me- you don't want to know.

On a lighter note- March has also brought the return of prime time television.
I have to say, while I missed all my shows, I've caught up on lots of sleep- and now I fear those days are long gone.

We've also had a very active month- Brendan is now into all sorts of sports: mostly soccer and tennis.
I've become a soccer mom- minus the mini-van.

Let me tell you about our weekend birthday party fun!
We had a party at the Orlando Science Center- a place I've always wanted to take the kids but just never did.
Well- they loved it so much we're sure to go back...but I'm not sure they will want us!
They have this mini-mountain with a river that runs through it. Kids can put on smocks and play with boats- and block certain channels of the river to make the current stronger. It's pretty cool- all the children seem to enjoy it.
But of course, Patrick had to take it one step farther.
I was helping Brendan on top of the mountain blocking off one of the channels....when a friend of mine starts laughing...saying...Jen...you might want to come see this...
I look up- and there's Patrick...ass deep...in the water.
He climbed right in and looked at me like....what?????
Here's a picture of shortly after when I pulled him out.

Notice the darker color on the bottom of his shorts and the puddles around him- that's all from him!!
I was a bad mom and made him spend the rest of the day in his wet shoes, socks, shorts and diaper.

How I Met Your Mother

2008-03-11T12:17:00.002-04:00

CBS is calling How I Met Your Mother (HIMYM) a "bubble show."
That means it has a chance of being cancelled if ratings don't improve. How do they figure? I can't even think of anything else I watch on CBS.
So- in a ploy to pop the bubble and stay on tv- the writers are bringing Britney.

Britney Spears will play Ted's love interest. Her character is described as "sweet and friendly and scattered and a little nerdy—a female Michael Cera."

Hopefully it's better than her guest role on Will & Grace.
I will give credit to the writers of HIMYM. They have done some pretty amazing stuff. Like, "Let's Go To The Mall." That's one of the best episodes of all time.
I also enjoyed the guest role by Mandy Moore as the slut with the tramp stamp.

The Britney episode airs in three weeks.
YEAH FOR NEW TV!!!