Trick or Treat

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

HAVE A HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tasteless Peanut Butter

ASSI - Peanut Butter is a highly beneficial food for people with Blood Type "A." I generally purchase Jif or Skippy; however, I thought it would be good to try Smart Balance Omega peanut butter that contains no Trans Fat and Flax Oil an added benefit. I love peanut butter I can eat it for lunch and dinner, but has strayed away from it because I thought it was fattening until I learn it is actually good for me. As soon as I unpacked the groceries an put everything away, I set down and opened the peanut butter, the first thing I noticed was all the oil on top, so I tried best I could to stir the oil into the peanut butter, and then I put a spoon full in my mouth. It was terribly disgusting. My first thought was to spit it out, I decided to give it a chance by taking another chance, I swirled the spoon around the jar to work in the oil, and spoonful, and pulled out my spoon filled with peanut butter. I managed to eat all the peanut butter but could not deal with the taste. The jar remained closed for a month. Today I tried eating it again and just cannot deal with the lack of taste. Maybe when spread on bread with jelly or on a craker it might taste better, but alone it is down right taste like vomit. As I see it if you like peanut butter for the nutritional benefit or just because you like the taste do not recommend trying Smart Balance Omega unless you are uninterested in good tasting peanut butter. I give Smart Balance Omega peanut butter 1 blink.

Retreat to Virginia

ASSI - Algonkian Regional Park located in Sterling. VA is a great place for family or friends to fellowship for the weekend. We had the pleasure of attending a couple's retreat with a few friends in a cottage that sleeps ten, two full bathrooms, a wrap around deck, jacuzzi that seats eight, and a thirty to forty minute drive from Washington, DC in non rush hour traffic. In the four corners of the cottage are bedrooms, the great room/common area is in the center, the kitchen is off to the left, and french doors open to the deck off to the right. Eight to Ten Cottages are nestled deep into the park on long the Potomac River, with hiking trails, a swimming pool, miniature and regular golf, and shopping centers for last minute needs. We enjoyed a nice hike on one of the many trails, the only wildlife we saw were Deer, there were a number of people riding bikes and walking their dogs. It was cold the weekend we were there, a gas fire place is in unit, which produced enough heat to keep us more than warm and cozy. The pots and pans provided were without Teflon; therefore, it was difficult to make omelets and french toast for breakfast. At dark screams were heard from the woods that peaked our interest, the community center put together a haunted woods attraction that drew large crowds, we walked over and there were about 100 people waiting to go in, and another 30 in line to purchase tickets at $13.00 a person. 10 people at a time go into the woods for a twenty minute hike. In our group the women wanted to experience the haunted woods, but the guys were not feeling it, so we opted to go back and watch the movie "Strangers." As I see if and when you have a chance to fellowship with family and/or friends away from home seize it.

Before you Drop the Bucket

ASSI - Everyone should have or make a list of things they want to accomplish and do in their life time. "The Bucket List" stars Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, a movie about two men with cancer who decide to live out there list of things to do and see before kicking the bucket. The movie premiered on December 15, 2007, and is currently out on DVD. Rob Reiner directed this film, he is also a veteran actor and producer, he did an outstanding job of directing, and Justin Zackham wrote "The Bucket List" a touching movie that is dominated by men. Initially I had reservations about seeing this movie. Sean Hayes from "Will and Grace" plays the trusted assistant to Jack's character and Beverly Todd plays the wife of Morgan Freeman's character. How interesting could it be with two seasoned actors playing characters with a to-do-list, but surprisingly it was a moving film that went beyond life's ordinary gifts. The message of openness and forgiveness was the essence of the story, we all know to value life because its short, but we also take life for granted and the people in our lives. Life is precious and should truly be treasured. It is meant to be lived for this is not a dress rehearsal. In "The Bucket List" both men are faced with critical decisions that alter their lives for the better. As I see it there are always signs around us demonstrating how short life really is: in books, movies, newspapers, magazines, factious or factual situations to remind us to treat ourselves and others well. I give "The Bucket List" 2.5 blinks.

Going Around in Circles

ASSI - What an experience we had at Seabrook Roller Skating Rink. Our grandchildren learned to roller skate over the summer while visiting their great grandparents in Florida. Jordan who is the oldest thought the only place he could skate was in Florida, he was surprised to learn that the Washington DC Area also has skating rinks. We went to Seabrook Roller Skating Rink in Lanham, MD that offers three skating times: 10 a.m. to Noon, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. We made our way from the Air and Space Museum to Lanham for the second rotation. Seabrook skating rink is old and outdated. It really could use a face lift, especially at $28.00 for one adult and two children under six. While we were in line waiting to purchase our tickets, a mother who was hosting a birthday party for her son exchange unpleasant language with the cashier regarding payment for the other children attending the party. After that encounter, I was a little concerned about the caliber of people who frequent this skating rink because both boys are extremely friendly and will latch on to other children without hesitation.

Many years ago, I went to Stardust Skating Rink in Florida every Saturday night and on special occasions, stood in line for hours waiting to get in, people traveled from St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Lakeland, and Orlando for an evening at Stardust. In those days when you rented a pair of skates your shoes were placed in the compartment where the skates are stored; however, at Seabrook you are responsible for storing your shoes. Lockers are provided for .50 cents, there are a few cubbyholes in the general area without protection for shoes, and hooks on the wall for your coat. The DJ booth separates the carpeted area from the concession stand that’s off to the left where there is also a party area, a 12 foot bench with storage compartments, and four video games.

There is no place at the Seabrook Roller Rink for small people who are beginners, except for the center of the rink where you have get to, and if you are an armature skater getting to the middle takes some doing. Back in the day, Stardust had two rinks one for beginners and one for everyone else, and the larger rink had a middle section. As I see it, children need an outlet, even if facility like Seabrook Skating Rink requires some cosmetic attention it allows children to release energy, and the concession stand takes credit cards for purchases over $5.00.

The Air and Space Museum

ASSI – The weather man forecasted rain all day for Saturday. The idea of entertaining two boys all day in the house concerned me. They enjoy roller skating so I went on-line to locate the nearest skating rink, and the Seabrook Roller Skating Rink has 10 a.m. to Noon, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. It was shortly after ten, so I decided that we would go to the Air and Space Museum to see the planes, planets, and the rocket ships first. Big mistake, going skating was the only thing on their minds; therefore, they were disinterested in the museum.

We managed to see all the exhibits more than once, somehow I dropped my camera case and attempted to back track to locate it, but with three memory cards: 250 GB, 2GB, and 32 GB it was a welcomed gift for someone without extra memory cards. Each exhibit is well done and takes you back to the historical moment when a particular aircraft was created and its mission. The Wright Brothers, Exploring the Planets, Apollo to the Moon, America by View, Explore the Universe, and World Wars Aviation are just a few of the number of exhibits that I personally enjoyed. There are 28 exhibits available and the Air and Space Museum is free. The flight simulators were of interest but all exhibits that cost were avoided. There are only three exhibits that actually cost: the Flight Simulator, Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater, and Einstein Planetarium.

The Air and Space Museum is a great place for a family or couple outing, you can bring your own snacks, or grab something to eat at the Wright Place Food Court. I am looking forward to a return trip without the boys. As I see it there is no other place in the world that provides detailed, insightful information with replicas, and actual aircrafts like the Air and Space Museum for free; therefore, if and when you visit Washington DC be sure to add the Air and Space Museum to your list of things to do. I give the Air and Space Museum 5 blinks.

Luxury Accomodations

ASSI – The Omni Hotel in West Houston, TX is a four-diamond hotel that is located off of Highway 10 West it is not centrally located, but you can enter downtown Houston directly from Highway 10 East, and it is minutes from Highway 610 and the other adjoining Highways. It is about 30 minutes from Bush InterContinental Airport. We had the pleasure of staying there over the Holiday weekend. It was our first time purchasing gas for under $3.00, which was a welcomed surprise. The lobby of the Omni Hotel has an indoor lake that runs East and West of the atrium, Café on the Lake is nestled off to the right, and the Black Gold Bar is a casual bar that’s ideal if you are interested in bar atmosphere without the smoke and drunks.

The standard rooms are comfortable with modern décor, flat screen television with cable, High Speed Internet, and other standard amenities. Although it was 80 degrees and Sunny, the outdoor heated pool looked inviting, but we decided to work-out in the gym that was complete with four treadmills, two stationary bikes, two flat screens, several weight machines, free weights, towels, cold lemon water, and fruit that was a nice touch. The hotel also offers in room fitness for an additional fee. A section of the general store is zoned for the Business Center where you can use a computer and make copies. I also like the glass elevators that allow you to appreciate the lobby’s ambience.

I left my battery charger for my camera at the hotel, I phoned them three times, and have yet to receive a call back. As I see it the complimentary morning news paper and beverages are just a few services that differentiate between the Omni’s luxury status and a low-end motel. I give the Omni Westside Hotel 3.5 blinks.

Sailing at Sam's Boat

ASSI - As a night cap to our day of football watching at Buffalo Wild Wings we dropped by Sam's Boat that was still pumping with excitement. One of our new friends was acquainted with a waitress who provided optimum service. The band was playing "Sweet Home Alabama", folks were dancing, sitting and standing around socializing on the wooden patio, at the West end is an outdoor stand where you can purchase burgers and fish. The atmosphere was upbeat and had a good vibe, we were there long enough to have a drink, I definitely could have stayed much longer, but a member of the team was ready to retire for the evening, so our night ended early. I really enjoyed the live music that Houston clubs and restuarants seem to have, the authorities were present for crowd control; however, while we were in Houston the drama was missing, which was a plus. Our time at Sam's Boat was brief, but if and when we visit Houston again we shall return.

The Best Place for Mexican

ASSI - Lauriol Plaza is the best place in Washington, DC to eat Mexican food, the Fita bread seems to be freshly made daily, the Chef does an excellent job with Salmon, the Nacho chips are too greasy, but overall it is an excellent place if you enjoy mexican food. A friend and I dined there last evening and the last time that I dined a Lauriol was about six or seven years ago. The layout was actually the same, the service was as good as I remembered, and the atmosphere was practically the same.

Many years ago while attending a luncheon celebration my food was accidentally removed from the table and the manager wrote on the back on his business card that Lauriol would replace my food on my next visit. I had that card with me last evening and in deed, I received complimentary cheese quesadillas and plantains that were really good. I also ordered Salmon stuffed with lump crab meat, four string beans and two carrots, black beans and rice, and plantains that was absolutely delicious. I topped that off with Mango Margarita that was a nice filler. My bill came to 40.00 including tip.

My girlfriend had something that resembled a seafood enchiladas with rice that was smothered in a cheese sauce that was washed down with hot tea, a shot of Jameson, and Mango Margaritas, and her tab was $30.00 including a tip. It would have been nice to share a photo of the well presented food, but I was so engaged in conversation with my friend that I neglected to photograph the food. If and when return to Lauriol's I will be sure to take a photo. As I see it, Lauriol Plaza is hands down the best Mexican Restaurant in Washington, DC for good food, drinks and an ideal environment to be social with a friend or a group of friends. I give Lauriol Plaza 4.5 blinks.

The Spotlight is on Jennifer Hudson

ASSI - Jennifer Hudson namesake album sounds like a labor of love. Although she does good job with the delivery of the song Pocketbook, a supposedly fun upbeat club tune that’s different and features Ludacris to give it extra appeal sounds more like an album filler instead of a radio release. The feel good song on the album is “Given Myself” an unselfish romantic tune that makes you feel good about love that was written by Robin Thick. It sounds like T-Pain is featured on the song “What’s Wrong” who is all wrong for this song, the synthesizer is unnecessary, it distorts the song when it is a heartfelt duet that should have featured Chris Brown or Trey Songz. There are a few songs on Jennifer Hudson’s CD that are short and sweet like: “If this Isn’t Luv”, “My Heart”, and “Invisible”, which are straight to the point with the exception of “And I’m Telling You I’m not Going” that could have been omitted from the album. Diane Warren also lends her writing talents with “You Pulled Me Through” that does not compare to “Because you Loved Me” but is appropriate for Hudson’s vocal ability. He is mine, the Man is mine tug-of-war songs between women over the cheating man will always have a place on wax because some women refuse to let him go, and Fantasia and Jennifer have a lyrical battle in “I am his only Woman.” I really like Jennifer vocals on “I Can’t Stop the Rain” one of the many ballets on her debut album. "I Can't Stop the Rain" is an emotional song about a friend who caused the death of another friend and you can hear the pain and sincerity in Jennifer's voice. As I see if you like a CD that you can laugh, sing, and cry to while cleaning the house on Saturday mornings or need something to get to and from work while you escape the hassles of your day, purchase Jennifer Hudson. I give it 3.5 blinks.

LaMadeleine in the Galleria Mall

ASSI - While in Houston, TX for the weekend, I wanted have breakfast at a restaurant that was unfamiliar to us, but when we ended up at the "Galleria Mall" our choices were limited. However, when we asked if there was a restaurant in the Mall that was offering breakfast our choice was "LaMadeleine" a Country French Cafe that offered six dishes for breakfast and none appealed to my palate, I wanted a waffle or pancakes, but was unwilling to leave the Mall after spending more than an hour looking for breakfast food. I settled for Chicken Friand - Puff pastry filled with chicken, mushrooms and bechamel sauce, topped with mushroom sauce for $5.99 and a Potato Galette for $2.49 that was different but enjoyable. I would have preferred that the Chicken Friand had more chicken instead of a piece here and there. He had a hot Chicken Parisien Sandwich - Marinated chicken breast, bacon, melted cheddar, mayonnaise, lettuce and tomato on a sourdough roll for $7.95 and two waters. As I see it, if you like french food LaMadeleine is an ideal place to grab something to eat while watching the ice skaters, skating at the indoor rink in the Mall. I give "LaMadeleine" 3 blinks.

65 pound pitbull jumping wall

Block Party In Houston Texas

Football at Buffalo Wings

ASSI - Buffalo Wings in Houston, TX, is a great place to watch sports, eat wings, through back a couple of beers or shots, while cheering for your favorite team. The bar has about 27 televisions so that every sports fan can see their team, there were six of us in our party, none of us shared a team, which made for an interesting evening that started at Scott Gertner's Sports Bar, and ended at Tom's Boat. The food at Buffalo Wings was really good we ordered: Asian spice and Garlic wings, Boneless Buffalo Wings, Chicken Quasidias, and a bucket of Heinekin Beer to start the evening. As I see if and when you are in Houston, Tx, make sure you take the time to stop by Buffalo Wings for a good eating and sporting experience. I give Buffalo Wings 4 blinks.

AHSI-Buffalo Wings located in Houston ,Texas, is a great place to visit. We were able to catch all of the games on "Football Sunday", enjoy a friendly environment while meeting new people and at the same time drinking premium beer and liquor at a great price. The food was great with a variety of wings, subs/sandwiches, appetizers and full course meals. Their was a very diverse crowd with the "home crowd" representing and them D@#$% Cowboys fans were in the house crying after they lost against the Cardinals, and QB Tony Romo broke his pinkie finger and will miss at least 4 weeks. A very quiet Terrel Owens dressed a bit "young" and like Erkel from the sitcom "Family Matters" in the locker room. I give Buffalo Wings 4 eyeballs, the only downside is that that did not have any flat screen TVs and although they had a lot of TVs they were small.

Scott Gertner's Sky Bar and Grill in Houston Texas

ASSI - We traveled to Houston, TX to visit with a friend over the Columbus Day Holiday. We had the pleasure of going to the "Skybar" that's located in the Penthouse level of an Office Building. The "Skybar" has three bars, two outdoor terraces, offers catered food, and features a live band and DJ who plays when the band breaks.

The band was excellent and the DJ kept the crowd on the dance floor, I danced so much that my sweat removed my make-up, there was a diverse group of people from age to race and everyone was having an enjoyable time. If you were out looking for a Sugar Daddy or Tender Roni, he was at the "Skybar", there were attractive to unattractive men, some folk were casually dressed while others dressed in advance for Sunday, and most of all the drinks were inexpensive compared to clubs in Washington, DC.

I had the pleasure of meeting two very nice people at the "Skybar" who hung out with us on Sunday when we Scott Gertner's Sports Bar, Buffalo Wings, and Tom Boats, we had such an exciting time that my visit to Houston will always be remembered. As I see it if and when you are in Houston you must plan to hang-out at Scott Gertner's "Skybar" or "Sports Bar" they are both worth looking into and stopping by for a good night out. I give the "Skybar" 4.5 blinks.

A Jazzy Night in Houston

Lindemans A Favorable Blend

ASSI - As a wine connoisseur I am always searching for that perfect bottle of Red wine that contains a nice blend of grapes, but not too strong or too expensive. I stumbled on a bottle of Lindemans Cabernet Sauvignon at a local Liquor store that was priced at $10.99, I was skeptical about its taste, but was pleasantly surprised that it was smooth with little to no bite. According to Lindemans, their bins are made with fruit sourced from key grape-growing regions in Australia, which peeked my interest. Lindemans also claims that the 2006 condition was a relatively early vintage, with low rainfall and warm weather contributing to an early budburst and flowering. Mild to warm weather throughout summer helped the fruit to mature well and rains at harvest allowed fruit to ripen well with good varietal character. As I see it Lindemans is a nice Red wine to serve your dinner guest or to simply enjoy at the end of an evening. I give Lindemans' Cabernet Sauvignon 3 blinks.

The Race of a Lifetime

ASSI - It is the 13th season of the “Amazing Race” and it is still my favorite reality show. Out of all the reality shows available, the Amazing Race is the only show that I would take a chance at becoming a cast member. Eleven teams of two set out to race around the world for a million dollars, which is truly the icing on the cake. Traveling from country to country is exciting enough, the various road blocks and detours designed to test the contestants’ fears, determination, will power, and mental strength make the competition a thrilling adventure. At the beginning of each race the team receives a clue regarding the next destination, but before arriving at the final destination for the current leg of the race, the teams encounter a road block that must be completed before receiving their next clue, which is generally a detour that only one member of the team must successfully execute prior to making their way to the check-in point. The first team to check-in wins a prize from free gas for a year to a trip for two, which is a great incentive to come in first. Regardless if a team checks in first or last they all say what an amazing experience they had and how the race changed their lives. As I see if you enjoy watching reality shows and you have not has the pleasure of tuning into the Amazing Race take a look, and I am sure you will find yourself wanting to complete an entry form for the next race. I give the Amazing Race 5 blinks.

Dinner at the Factory

ASSI - A friend and I had dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, it has been years since I have the pleasure of dining at our local Cheesecake Factory Restaurant, and although it has been years, the menu is still extensive. I thought the restaurant had a nice crowd considering the economic climate, I was quickly reminded that there use to be a 45 to 60 minute wait, which was one of the reasons I had not attempted to eat there for years. I dislike waiting to eat. My girlfriend new exactly what she was having, she actually had three options and did not open the menu, I was leaning toward a turkey burger, but my friend influenced my decision. After hearing my choice; she said, "you came all this way to have a burger, with all the choices on the menu?" "I am thinking about it," was my response. I ordered the "Chicken Madiera" that consists of Sauteed Chicken Breast Topped with Fresh Asparagus and Melted Mozzarella Cheese, Covered with Fresh Mushroom Madeira Sauce. Served with Mashed Potatoes. My girlfriend had the "Pasta Da Vinci" that consists of Sauteed Chicken, Mushrooms, Onions and Garlic in a Delicious Madeira Wine Sauce Tossed with Penne Pasta and Parmesan, and she was pleased that her meal plus tip was under $20.00. My contribution was more due to the glass of Wine that I enjoyed with my meal, I consumed everything but the Mashed Potatoes, and went without dessert. We both remembered that we had dessert at home. I neglected to take a picture of the "Chicken Madiera or the pasta dish, oops. I give the service and meal 3.5 blinks.

Steam or Iron a Garment!

ASSI – After seeing the infomercials on garment steamers, burning a pair of slacks with an iron that continuously leaked, I’d had enough with my iron, and instead of replacing it I purchased a Rowenta Garment Steamer. All of my clothes require ironing even the clothes that I dry clean require a touch up, an iron is a necessity for me, so I went to Macy’s and compared their selection that consisted of the Conair compact steamer, HoMedics HomeTouch garment steamer, and the Rowenta that was the most expensive. Unsure if the price made the difference, I checked out the features, and the Rowenta offered more and seemed to be the better buy. I also went to Target, I believe in being diligent, and Target had two brands available in the store Shark and Rowenta, but offers others on-line.

The Rowenta was fifty dollars cheaper at Target, it is easy to assemble, has large water tank that holds 128 ounces of water, large wheels for mobility, Auto-off, foot operated on and off lever with indicator light; lint, fabric and garment brushes, it heats-up within 2 minutes, has an aluminum swivel hanger rod, and a cool-touch handle but the hose becomes extremely hot so be careful not to touch it. You also have to be mindful of how you hold the handle, especially when steaming from inside a garment. I am unsure if steaming saves me anytime, granted I do not have to set-up the ironing board, position the garment on the board, plug the cord into an outlet, and select a temperature setting, but steaming dresses and skirts are more difficult because the Rowenta is without a telescoping rod, which would prevent stooping, kneeling, or folding the garment to steam. I should not have been surprised when I steamed a blouse and it was somewhat damp, not wet, when I put it on. I also expected the wrinkles to disappear instantly; however, cotton and denim fabric takes a little longer.

After the first week, I contemplated returning the garment steamer, I thought it too complicated, and non user friendly. Since, I use it daily my opinion is changing, I like that the Rowenta Steamer stays plugged into the outlet, I only steam my dry cleaning where there are wrinkles or lines, my clothes look and smell better, and areas where an iron is limited is not a problem with the steamer. As I see it, even with the occasional stooping and kneeling it is much better than standing over an ironing board pushing an iron back and forth, when I am done I simply remove the garment from the hanger and put it on, and push the steamer back in it’s designates spot and I am done eliminating the break down and storing the Ironing board behind the closet door. I give the Rowenta Garment Steamer 4 blinks.

St. Anna Needs A Miracle!

ASSI ....When I first saw the trailer of Director, Spike Lee's film
"Miracle at St. Anna", I was unmoved, I thought it was another war movie, and I was right. However, I allowed myself to be influenced by his appearance on Oprah, the crowds' reaction to the film, and Lee stated that the film is loosely based on a relative' who served in the Army's Negro 92 Division. The fact that Spike is providing the life experience of four Black soldiers who were separated from their unit behind enemy lines in a Tuscan village in Italy. Gail King stated that the film represented more than soldiers fighting for their lives that the film is a human interest movie, Spike stated that "Miracle at "St. Anna" is story that contains 18 miracles; therefore, I was intrigued and very interested in supporting the movie. The movie is well written, well acted, and well directed. It was a pleasure seeing Michael Ealy, Derek Luke, Laz Alonso, Omar Benson Miller, and Pierfrancesco Favino, the Italian boy who made his film debut in "Miracle at St Anna." As I see it if you like war movies, like films based on true stories, and have 2 hours and 40 minutes to dedicate to a movie "Miracle at St. Anna" is the film for you. If not, want three months and catch on DVD. I give "Miracle at St. Anna" 2.5 blinks.

Gza / Genius New LP Protools

AHSI....The Gza's new album Protools is the epitome of what Hip Hop Music is about. Considered and old school throwback, and one of the three original founders of the Wutang Clan, has not lost a step. If you are sick of the radio friendly, pop rap music that they are playing on the radio, then you will definitely want to go out and purchase this album. The Genuis started out with the Famous Juice Crew and after the Juice Crew went their separate ways he founded the Wu Tang Clan with cousin Rza aka Radio Raheem and ODB. He tells a story like Slick Rick as well as being lyrically talented. Gza uses a range of beat masters from DJ Muggs to his Wu Tang brethren the Rza. I give Protools 4 eyeballs.