Let's get up to speed.

The last I wrote, my live-in boyfriend was looking for a job and I was still at that cafe.  As we stand now my amazing boyfriend found a job (thanks to my more amazing Nana). He's working as a clerk to a judge and he's learning a lot.  

     We are still living in the beautiful city of Portland and spring has sprung. My poor sinuses are surely suffering, but it's worth it!  I can't get enough of the sunshine, mountain views, the farmers market, the lovely flowers, and did I mention the sun! Portlanders, or should I say Pacific Northwesterners, are funny creatures.  We absolutely love the sun and anything above 60 degrees counts as a summer's day. My neighbors are bikini-clad and trying to work on a base tan.  I don't blame them.  I've been slathering on the SPF 50 for weeks!  

The Hoff's zinc nose

     Speaking of sunscreen, I just wanted to post a little PSA.  I recently found out that sunblocks with titanium or zinc work much better at preventing burns than those without.  It's for the simple explanation that they are physical blockers rather than chemical ones.  Chemical ones are fine (if you don't mind potentially poisoning yourself, I've personally been doing it for years and will continue when necessary), but they tend to wear, sweat, and wash off much more readily.  Physical blockers have minerals that create a barrier from the sun, this is why mineral makeup works so well as a sunscreen.  The downside is that they don't rub into your skin as readily.  If you shop around you'll find one you'll like.  I've been using Solar Sense Clear Zinc, which I really like.  Please note I'm not getting paid to plug them.

     Hm, what other changes are going on in my life?  My mother and I have convinced ourselves that we need to go into business together.  The only problem is that we have no product or idea to sell yet (any reasonable suggestions will be considered).

     I have started to wear mascara on a regular basis.  I feel like it really draws attention to my eyes that my fair blonde lashes were not doing.  I've really been enjoying spending time with my siblings.  I've convinced my little sister that coming downtown doesn't have to be scary.  In fact, she's well-versed on public transit in the city's center.  My big brother moved into an amazing apartment (that we were instantly jealous of, but they don't allow dogs) in an equally amazing part of town.  

Hotlips pizza and a pint of Prohibition Ale

All in all, I'm very excited for the lovely weather to enjoy as many happy hours on as many patios as possible.