All Things Me

In the Land of Broken

2011-08-21T12:49:00.002-05:00

These past weeks have been a lesson in how all things that sound simple - are actually a list of multi-step processes that may test your sanity. We've been working for over two months to get phone, cable, and Internet hooked up in the new building. It took about one month just to get the phone NUMBERS (thanks to a hostile take over of the cable company). We are currently running with Internet and ONE (of three) phone lines - and no one can define a date when work will begin - as a matter of fact, we spent a few days just trying to keep the Internet working.

It appears that 99% of construction is done - this just leaves much (MUCH) cleaning, moving of furniture, and final touches. The elevator has gone from fickle to consistently-on-vacation and I've got the repair man on speed dial.

I've discovered one - of many- cast iron pipes that I could put my hand into...no super-powers involved. I'm putting the plumber on speed dial next. I've also toiled with the copy machine, the security system, the polices and procedures, and then mother nature threw us a curve ball that resulted in DAYS of partial electricity and a pile of tree debris.

At least I can not complain about being bored or about "slow" days. Time flies when your "to do" list keeps throwing you curve balls!

The Constant Is Change

2011-07-22T18:49:00.002-05:00

This has been a week filled with firsts. I've packed up the old office. Moved into the new office. Had more to do with construction than I would have ever desired to- with the promise of much more to come. Vacuumed more square footage than should be legal. Dug through 2 large coffee cans of keys - and actually found some that worked. Hosted an open house. Had two city inspections and finally began to move people in.

Phew! I'm tired.

I've had lots of negativity sprinkled on top of my days. People telling me this program will never last. People telling me how this won't work, that will fail, and the other things are stupid or not thought out. Some are full of questions - which is helpful and makes you consider various possible situations - but also is exhausting when you feel like you are justifying every answer and being questioned at every stop.

I am very thankful that none of this "stuff" is coming from my boss. She continues to tell me how glad she is that I am there, how brave I am for taking on this project. And she continues to feed my ego with cheers of "you can do it". (And in all fairness, I've heard this from others as well - but it usually is at the end of the grilling questions / comments.)

I'm also overwhelmed with community support - so many people want to help - but I never realized how much work it is to coordinate people's efforts to help. I'm feeling pulled in multiple directions and find that my new mantra is "Just keep swimming!"

At some point this week - I thought, "okay, I'm starting to feel comfortable - this is okay" and of course, I had to remind myself that nothing about my work world today will be the truth of my work world tomorrow - nor in a month or in a year. I've signed up for on-going change.

Keep your fingers crossed that it comes in slow and steady paces. And maybe even that I can catch my breath from time to time and have a moment of comfort and reassurance.

Use What You've Got

2011-07-07T18:09:00.004-05:00

In my quest to downsize my possessions - I have to deal with my apparent obsession with body products.

I have a LOT. Imagine an amount in your mind - multiply that by 3 and that might be close. It's crazy. I knew it was bad - but I still had no clue how bad it was. I blame the "buy more" techniques - spend $$ and get free shipping. Or the buy 3 to get a good price deals.

There are lotions for breast firming, self tanning, moisture, some smell good (various flavors), some scrub, some lighten veins, smelly sprays, anti-aging, some for specific body parts, facial creams, eye creams, hair products, full size bottles, sample sizes and so it goes ....

So this year one of my resolutions has been:

1. Stop buying these things. 2. Get better about using them.

It's exhausting! If I used all these things on a daily basis - I would lose hours of my life. Half way through the year - I've done very good about not buying more products. But I feel like I've hardly made a dent in using it all up. I don't think I've ever been so excited to see that I'm reaching the bottom of the bottle.

Do you keep your beauty supply inventory under control? Or do you find it piling up? Do you purge regularly? And do you use what you buy on a regular basis?

Lost in Transition

2011-06-23T08:00:00.001-05:00

We are approaching a year since my I-LOVED-IT job was pulled right out from under me. And reflecting back on the year, I've just kind of been riding the waves- aimlessly getting by, and faking it-all the while being lost in transition.

And then I realized - the last 2 years of that "Love It" job- were described OVER and OVER by the evil overlords as "a year of transition". Things were changing faster than we could comprehend, communication was hard (or hardly happening), no one had a road map - and the whole thing was like a snowball rolling downhill......with a cliff at the end. So it's no wonder - that this year feels like it's been FOREVER - like I've really been wandering lost for about 3 years - and I'm tired and want to plant myself in a place where I can grow. (And decorate.)

I was very fortunate to find an opening that allowed me to stay with the non-profit that I do love dearly. It was temporary but it was such a gift. Not just for the paycheck - which was greatly appreciated, but because it let me try a different kind of work out (one that I might have been afraid to try - had it not come with an expiration date).

Before that job ended, another position became vacant in another department. It too, was a job that I had NEVER considered doing in all the years that I have known of it. But it was a job that I considered to be a stepping stone. There is retirement in the air for the department lead, and I was in told I could be part of their succession plan. So while this job did not come with an official expiration date, I've kind of been standing in line to reach a higher goal.

And then...an amazing thing happened. After YEARS of discussion and planning and wishing...our organization has been lucky enough to be able to start a whole new program - a HUGE-will have it's own 3 story building - kind of program! I remember hearing about this dream / job long ago when I was sitting at my beloved desk and thinking - that sounds interesting...if I ever want to shake things up, that might be the road to go down.

So while I've been marking time and learning new things and trying to see if the shoes of this potential department-lead job would fit me - another road was being constructed. Now, I will be marking time for my 2 weeks notice- tying up loose ends, sadly - preparing to not be surrounded by some great people that I have grown fond of, and packing up to head to a job that I can make my NEW-GONNA-LOVE-IT-and make it all mine - job!

Little did I know, that the universe was pushing me, shaking me up, and sometimes bruising me so that I would be ready for this next chapter. It's been a while - but the party is on!

How Much Do You Need?

2011-06-18T11:40:00.006-05:00

I have found myself asking this question a lot.

How many TOWELS does a family of 3 actually NEED? 3? 9? 9+1 beach towel each? More? And if you have that answer, then please also tell me how many hand towels and face cloths are appropriate.

How many sets of MIXING BOWLS does one kitchen need? (One tiny -not enough storage- kitchen.) I found 5. One plastic with lids. One metal with lids (lids that I hate and never use and don't fit well). One metal with more bowls / no lids. One set of glass bowls / no lids. And one that I never use for mixing - but more for storage and serving because they are pretty colors.

How many plastic storage containers do you need? Sometimes it seems like the answer is - you can never have enough! However, if you had LESS storage containers - would you be less likely to forget about the leftovers you already have stored in your refrigerator?

I once found 8 pairs of scissors strung around the house (some adult, some fabric, some kitchen, some preschool aged, some older kid aged). And the crazy thing is - I CAN NEVER FIND a pair of scissors when I need them!!! I could say the same thing about nail clippers...and while I haven't counted, I'm pretty sure there are more than 10 in this house - somewhere.

How many clothes do people need? If you had less - would you miss them? Or would it make laundry less of a nightmare? Would you chose your clothes wiser? Would you save money? I counted T-shirts in my son's closet as I was reorganizing....I stopped counting when I hit 35 - and there were more to come, more in laundry, more that were out of season...

I'm trying to live with less. Maybe because I've watched one too many hoarder shows. Maybe because I find my house too full and my mind too cluttered. Maybe because at some point things become a burden and ownership makes you heavy. And maybe because more than once I have thought "If this all burned down (minus the few special things that instantly come into my mind that I would miss) I wouldn't mind starting over and being smarter and letting go of all this crap!

So I'm trying to let go. Some things are harder. Letting go of all the maternity clothes and baby items - feels like giving up on a dream. But no woman ever DIDN'T get pregnant because she didn't have baby items.

My wise friend, Janet, recently pointed out some good facts about donating vs. garage sales (which is the eternal lie that I tell myself- I'm saving all this crap until I can have a garage sale - I can't have the garage sale until I organize all this crap. I can't organize all this crap because there is no room to work with that much stuff / live with the mess while I'm doing it - it's too big of a job, there is too much crap to have a garage sale.) and NOW I am feeling better about letting go. I'm going to help others. I'm going to get a tax receipt. I can do it in small stages (I will NOT lie to myself about doing it all at once - I have no intention of renting a U-Haul). I can spread the wealth to multiple organizations. And I am going to be left with an easier to manage, not so full, peaceful house. Yeah me!

I'll let you know how it is going from time to time...

Do you find stuff building up around you or do you have a system to keep your stuff-inventory in check?

Iced Coffee YUM

2011-06-17T08:16:00.008-05:00

I have tried a LOT of iced coffee recipes.

Some were really good -but they involved 10 ingredients and a blender.

Some made 2.8 servings (massively big servings) and sometimes I am the only one that needs an iced coffee and I don't think I should force feed myself an entire blender of coffee just so nothing is wasted.

Some recipes were really quick - but they lacked the flavor, creaminess, and general taste that you find in your $5 iced coffee drinks. Other times they had to be consumed in one super-fast gulp before they became watered down from the melted ice.

Here is my new solution- the goals were:
1. Must be yummy.
2. Must be few in ingredients.
3. Must be fast in the morning.
4. Must be able to make a single serving.

Ready?
There is some pre-day prep - but it is painless:

Step one: Brew strong coffee - any flavor - just make it strong.

Step two: Shut off coffee pot and let it cool but don't forget it is there.

Step three: Freeze this coffee in ice cube trays and smile for all the future goodness you will enjoy. (I try to make several batches over the weekend and once the cubes are solid I pop them in a Ziploc bag. This stockpile ensures that I will have supplies to last through the week!)

On the big day:
Make one average size cup of super hot water, about 6 ounces of water in a much larger cup- if you have a Keurig then brew one medium cup.

Add to that 3 Tbs. of cappuccino mix. Any flavor. Any brand. This MAY be more powered than you would usually add to that amount of water - but this will provide the sweetness and the creaminess that you need.

Add 7-8 coffee cubes. (Adjust cubes to give more or less coffee flavor to please your pallet.) Be patient and let this melt.
I find that if I make my cup right before walking out the door - by the time I reach work 5-10 minutes later, it's perfectly chilled.

Sit back and enjoy your cool pick-me-up! Maybe with an episode of Weeds? :)

Walk It Off!

2011-06-09T12:20:00.005-05:00

I don't really like baseball. I never watch it on TV. If I go to a game at a stadium - it is more about the food, the atmosphere, the friends.

Regardless, my kiddo is playing baseball. And I like the kiddo - so I'm trying to like baseball.

This is not an easy task for the following reasons:

I have decided that if you sign up for baseball there is a secret-fine-print-clause that says you must forfeit the right to have a life. They will give you the schedule for the season three days before the first game. They will schedule practices in advance - only to cancel. Schedule "surprise" practices on holiday weekends, random days, and hours before the event. (They may or may not cancel moments before the practice should take place.) They reschedule games with no regard for what day of the week it is, regardless of how many games you have already played that week, and usually do this with about two days notice. You get the picture....it never ends.

It's a secret society....baseball fields do not have addresses. But they randomly say we are playing in Town X. See you there. And we are not "originals" from this area - so maybe everyone else was born with the knowledge of the locations of all random baseball fields in all the surrounding small towns? But I was not. So finding the games is a lot like a scavenger hunt.

It's hot outside. And let's talk about seating - you either get metal bleachers (which are kind of like a large scale George Foreman grill meant to fry all flesh sitting upon them) or splintering wood. And who the hell designs these fields? Have they heard of SHADE-at least for the audience? What do they have against trees? Awnings? Morons.

And then there is the "Walk It Off" phenomenon. Have you seen this? The pitcher winds up - the crazy ball shoots out and nails the batter. And someone (usually male) will yell, "Walk it off!"

I would like to drag these individuals into a dark alley and pummel them with some baseballs to remind them that it hurts like hell to get hit (and I would ask for super-pitching power while I did it). And to remind them that their child likely does not have as much "padding" as their adult bodies.

This week I read about tragedy that occurred resulting in the death of a child on a baseball field. My heart goes out to all the families affected. With this on my mind, I attended a game where one of our team mates was bashed in the face with a flying ball. I understand this happens - it is a risk of the game.

I was very perplexed by the behavior that followed - no one was prepared. (There was a lot of blood.) No one seemed overly concerned. The child was taken off the field and while he could barely stand there was no sense of emergency. In truth - the child's nose was broken and surgery is likely going to be needed to correct the problem. Oh yeah, and he had a concussion--and for the record, I don't think you can just "walk off" a head trauma!

I've considered it a warning sign. If you child is playing sports, or if you have a youngster that you love involved in sports and you attend those games - please, please, please DO NOT expect anyone to know what to do in the event of an emergency. The coaches are often volunteers. The umpires are often students. The parents are just parents - and the minutes waiting for emergency services (assuming anyone realizes they are needed) could make a life and death difference.

I came home and took an online CPR review- I'll contact a local agency to be more official. I'm shopping for our own first-aid kit for sporting events and it will be by my side at every game here-forward. I can not stand the idea of sitting by helplessly while a childs life is in danger. Let's do our best to keep them safe - even if it's in the middle of a game. Smart parenting does not go on hold on the sidelines!

Time Flies...Random Details

2011-06-02T08:24:00.004-05:00

I can not even imagine how it got to be June. And how I have been such a bad "poster".

Let's catch up...

Since January - I've taken a position that is not my dream job (it's been open several times before and I've never even considered applying). It's a good job as jobs go, mostly I like that I am still in the same company and get to be surrounded by the same people. I have now worked in every department, every building, and every floor for this organization. I am officially well-rounded. I am also an easy target to be volunteered for any / every committee and project that comes up - because I know "something" about "everything". Let's call that job security!

I've become a Netflix Junkie! I have discovered that if you take an "okay" television series and digest the whole season in a weekend - you can really get sucked in. So I've digested Greek, Secret Life of the American Teenager, Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, Big Bang, and am slowly working on Skins. In other viewing, I'm kind of feeling empty by the end of Big Love but jazzed about the return of Weeds.

Speaking of Weeds...this show always brings on my craving for an iced coffee drink. I dedicated a portion of my Memorial Day weekend to cracking the code to a chilled coffee drink that is the perfect balance of yummy and reasonable-to-assemble-in-the-chaotic-A.M. Success was achieved and I promise to share.

We celebrated the end of 4th grade for the kiddo. A year that will go down in my memory book as being filled with ridiculous projects for which children seemed to be able to "buy" a good grade...since home made supplies did not earn as many points. This lead to several rant-filled adventures to find 3-D objects... for a revolutionary war timeline (I have never been so pleased to find plastic army men, erasers shaped like headstones, and a practical use for my origami skills) a scavenger hunt for a plant that could pass for sassafras, and a search for an Artic Hare and Artic Fox,-for the record these can be found in the toy aisle at your local Target. We also built a car for Stewart Little (since it didn't have to be to scale I can not for the life of me understand how this became a "lesson"). We (he) read 7,000+ pages, received his first ever "B" for a quarter, spent the rest of the year working to average out that "B" so that we would have "A's" for the year (he did it) and we got to see "the puberty" video. Thanks to our family viewing of King of the Hill - he had already been introduced to many of these concepts- my thanks to Hank, Joseph, Bobby, Lou Anne and Connie.

The pool is opened. The garden is in (2nd year square foot gardening). Baseball season has begun - the organizers continue to prove that "planning and organization" are not universal skills.

Thanks for hanging around -I'll be updating my 1001 goals, posting about gardens, crafts, and more.

Droid Does...

2011-01-03T13:55:00.003-06:00

... work in the New Year!

Just sayin....

A Year of Receipts

2011-01-01T09:00:00.000-06:00

At the beginning of January 2010 I was reading a lot of blogs about saving money on groceries.

To be honest, I really didn't know how much we were spending on our "budget" of food - we bought, we ate, we bought some more.

I'm not the best shopper - I don't have menus planned for the week. It's a work in progress - and so a year ago I decided at the very least, I needed to know how much we were spending.

And so - I fanatically began collecting receipts. I was very diligent (read as neurotic) and I think at times I may have been mistaken as a crazy paper hoarder if you saw in my purse...but would say that 98% of the shopping trips were collected.

With a years worth of data in front of me...I began the analysis...and this is what I've learned.

1. Unless I immediately attack my husband upon his return from the store, the receipt will forever be lost.

2. The numbers are not fully accurate - it doesn't include eating out, it doesn't include the 25% of a cow that we bought, it does include random household items (air filters, dog food, toilet paper, medications) and it does not include school lunches.

3. I made an average of 5.25 trips to the store per month. (There must have been killer stock-up sales in March - I had 11 receipts!)

4. I spent an average of $279 per month.

5. Now I can really compare prices especially for bulk items.

And the final lesson....Surely, I can do better.

Add that to my resolution list!

Sorry, I Fell Off the Net

2010-12-30T16:32:00.004-06:00

OK - since I last was here. I finished the Crisis / Housing / Temporary job.

I started the new job. Moved to the new floor. Cleaned out a bunch of crap that was left for me - maybe someone thought is was meaningful / helpful...I assure you, it was only meaningful to the recycle pile. And settled in about in time to take a holiday break.

I'm trying to make the most of my new position but not so much planting any roots because there is a potential job on the horizon with the same organization - with the benefit of promised long-lasting-ness, with higher pay, with more creative freedom, with more but desired responsibility, with a supervisor that has 100% faith in my ability and the right balance of "there" but not "over your shoulder". So we will wait and see what happens. I'm ready to believe that either option will allow me to do things that I will take pleasure in and will grow with me. (But I'd really appreciate the bigger paycheck NOW instead of 1.5 years down the road.)

I've made progress on the 101 goals. Must update.

I've failed miserably at other goals. Must get on the ball.

I am once again on the mission of cleaning out - minimizing the "stuff" in my life. Let's hope for better progress this year than last. In an effort to be "simple" ...it was the theme of my tree this year...I know, it's late for sharing decoration pics, but I'm in charge here...so please admire my simple tree...

All crystal snowflakes were a craft project...easy but sparkly!

And speaking of crafts. I ordered a double batch of these paper balls last year! I've assembled a few - obviously they are too big for my tree. I was thinking of doing a door decoration with them, 0r using them as some sort of countdown? But now I'm kind of stumped. So if you have any inspirational ideas - please let me know!

Composting 101

2010-11-13T15:19:00.005-06:00

(Notes from the girl who did it all wrong.)

I just filled a good portion of my raised garden with my own, home grown compost - after two years of effort. For anyone that knows anything about compost - you might realize that it really shouldn't take two years to make compost. So let me tell you a story...

I remember hearing about composting long, long ago...I must have been in middle school. I was the only preteen in my corner of the world concerned about such things...if only I had known back then that I was revolutionary....and not weird. (sigh) I convinced my mother for a short time to let me dump the coffee grounds and tea bags in a section of the garden - I'm quite sure she thought I was insane. It didn't take long before the weather sucked, my allergies ran a muck and I lost interest.

So one day as I was walking through a store and I noticed an affordable composting box - oh yes, I had to have it. I promptly brought it home and started stuffing it full of goodies in hopes of making lovely dirt.

About that same time a couple of things occured...
1. We had a shipment of like 50 pounds of some citrus fruit
2. Fall. And in our yard that means many, many leaves....
3. It also means sticky balls. Lots of sticky balls.

Generally, I am a rule follower. But sometimes in life - I have to learn lessons the hard way. Do yourself a favor...and if you plan to start composting - just trust me...

Mistake #1 The instructions say don't include citrus fruits in your compost. They aren't kidding. I dumped the skins of that 50 pounds of citrus fruits into the bin. We also consume a ridiculous amount of kiwi in this house. It seemed wasteful to just throw that out - so I threw it in the bin.

Well, turns out - they say not to do it for a reason. The bugs / worms / icky creatures that do the hard work don't like citrus fruit. They will show you their dislike by NOT living in your compost bin - therefore, no compost for you.

Mistake #2 Leaves are great for compost - you can really lend a hand to the process by raking your leaves (dry), putting them in a large container and then pulverizing them with a weed eater. It's kind of a lawn tool blender. And it's amazing how much this can cut down on the bulk - and make your large leaf pile about 1/3 of it's original size. However, leaves are dry (that may seem obvious to you - you are smart readers). You need to compensate this dryness either with more frequent / heavy watering OR by adding much more wet matter to the pile.

If you don't keep the compost pile wet - you will have lots of the wrong kinds of critters living there. Mainly, I found ants - lots of ants. There were other critters in there as well - but I didn't look that close...I was too busy screaming "Eeewwwww" and trying to ensure none of them got the chance to crawl on me.

Mistake #3 Sticky balls. If you have a sticky ball tree - first, I'm sorry. Second, you likely already know this lesson. If you do not have a sticky ball tree - drive around your neighborhood. Find someone who does. Send them a sympathy card. (Really, they need your support.) They are really pretty trees but their beauty is soon hidden by their devilish little balls. They make your yard a landmine field. They make your lawnmower a deadly weapon. They make you crazy. They never end. And in the world of compost - they take 10 million years to decompose. Save yourself the headache - burn them or use them as mulch in areas that you would like to discourage anything from going...but do not fool yourself into thinking they will break down in your compost pile. It won't happen. Two years later - you will still find them there - laughing at you from the bottom of the pile.

They should alter that saying about after a nuclear explosion - all that would survive would be the cockroaches, Twinkies, and sticky balls.

After two years into the art of making compost - and so far having none...it was time to admit I had a problem. So I went to my garden center - bought some compost booster and got really productive this summer. I added very little to the compost pile this summer - wet matter only. The bin was nearly overflowing. After garden season ended - I dug out all the magical compost (thank you to the compost booster for working - and to myself for reading / following the directions) and when I got to the sticky ball layer - I threw all those under our large pine tree. We'll keep using this plan for future seasons and plan to never pay for mulch in that area again.

Now that I am starting from a clean slate, I'm super excited about doing it all the right way this time. (And having a product by next season.) Produce cut into small sections. Coffee grounds. Tea bags. Lots of banana peels. I emptied all my summer potting soil there as well. I've also started putting napkins and paper towels there unless they have come in contact with something offensively dirty. I'm also planning to put my toilet paper tubes into the compost. (I would consider composting other paper products but I recycle those for a local charity.) Occasionally a piece of cardboard will make it to the compost pile. We will add some leaves to the pile - assuming that it ever stops raining long enough for them to dry out.

I'm still completely committed to composting - I like to reduce my trash and I like to make my own rich soil. If you garden or if you just want to be the greenest kid on the block - you might give it a go too.

Just Call Me Big Bird

2010-10-14T14:00:00.000-05:00

I've learned a lot about myself during this "bump" in the road of employment.

I have learned that I am a nester. (spell check denies this is a word but you know what I mean- you know, nesting - making your space home / well stocked)

In this temporary job I am working at two locations. In one land, I was lucky enough to be given an office - with a desk, a phone, eventually a computer, some simple working supplies.

At the other land where I work - I find myself working out of a mostly empty conference room one day and in someone else's office the other. This means on one day - I'm sitting in the other office workers lunch room...(it's a nice treat when they decide to eat sausages and sauerkraut for lunch)...there is no phone, no computer, no internet connection even if I brought one. Files must be packed out of the main office to this location and locked any time I so much as go to the bathroom - because I can't lock the ROOM (I have no key) this means loading and unloading the files into a temporary cabinet several times a day. There are no tissues, no office supplies, no resources. There is however, now a mini-office in my bag - which weighs a ton, which I must pack in and out every day...because I am a working nomad. And on the day when I'm in someone else's space ---well, how awkward is it to dig through someone's drawers while searching for a paper clip? And it gives no relief to the whole "storage" problem....but at least I have a key that day.

It brings me ridiculous comfort to have a few simple things in my work office...I will admit that as I was moving out of my office for over 6 years - I realized I was over-stocked with comfort items. But have you ever tried to make it through a day of work when you really need a nail file? How about chap stick? What about hand lotion?

I also like to have some food items on hand. A few breakfast bars. Maybe a few snack items to help fend off any temping evil food. Maybe a shelf-safe lunch item. And I like to drink hot tea...so this leads to a coffee mug, a spoon and an electric kettle.

It took me about 2 days to move my personal office fridge. (staff fridge does not mean my standard of "clean" and I've had one two many things walk away in a shared fridge...a fridge that is all mine requires a higher degree of willingness to commit crime)

In truth - I've had a small bag that I've really wanted to bring in as well. It includes a toothbrush, deodorant, tylenol, nasal spray (it's a fending-off-germs thing), powder...and my gym socks and shoes. (my work shoes are not treadmill friendly...so no shoes equals no taking my break at the gym)

The list goes on...and yes, clearly - my temporary home (or no home to call my own) has showed me that I can absolutely survive with all these things. But how much nicer is it to feel secure in your space - that your needs, however random, will easily be met?

Am I alone here? Or do you find yourself cramming personal need items into your workspace?

Wishing Wednesday

2010-10-13T16:37:00.002-05:00

Week 35: Where I get back on track.

I wish for the ability to stay on schedule.
I wish that helping to change the world was as easy as helping people in this current job.
I wish to be at my best - when others are at their worst. (Think able to find calm and wisdom when someone is screaming insanity at you.)
I wish people wouldn't scream insanity at me.
I wish for fall to stick around - often in MO fall is a 6 day event followed by the immediate onslaught of winter.

So thankful....to be close to the countdown in the land of crazy, for the people that I've had the chance to work with, that those people are already dreading my departure, that life is full of other chances and opportunities. AND - thankful for the trip that I won through work...proof that sometimes our thoughts do become reality.

Hope your wishes are coming true!

Wishing Wednesday

2010-09-22T20:25:00.003-05:00

Week 34:

I wish I could get it together enough to actually have this posted at the beginning of the day - instead of remembering late evening...and continuing to think of a wish every time I roll over in the middle of the night, mmmmmkay?

Hope you are more on top of it than I have been...

Watch-Out Brownies

2010-09-06T20:35:00.002-05:00

I got this recipe from an email recently - here is the link to the original...

I thought it sounded really good- who doesn't love a high fiber brownie?

I made a few alterations - mostly because I had no desire to scoop cookies out when I could just as easily bake in a 9x13 and then cut them later. However, word of caution - if you are not use to having a high fiber diet - proceed with great care. You have been warned. These brownies will have a "nutty" texture because the cereal will not soften during baking.

1	box (1 lb 2.3 oz) fudge brownie mix
2	cups Fiber One® original bran cereal (some of the ratings suggested breaking up the cereal - I tried to do this by hand- but this cereal is not for the weak...so I mostly was unsuccessful - I think you could break it up in a food processor and that may make the texture of the final product closer to a normal brownie- the texture didn't bother us)
2	tablespoons miniature semisweet chocolate chips
1/8	teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3	cup water
1	tablespoon vegetable oil
2	teaspoons vanilla
	1 egg I also added 1 TBS applesauce because the mixture seemed a little dry.

1.	Heat oven to 350°F. Spray pan with cooking spray. In large bowl, mix all ingredients with spoon. Pour into 9x13.
2.	Bake as directed on box until set (though my toothpick never came out "clean"). Cool completely. Store in tightly covered container. Freeze up to 2 months if desired.

Wishing Weekends?

2010-09-06T13:06:00.002-05:00

Week 33:

I wish that this new work schedule didn't seem to suck my sense of time into a dark vortex - somehow I missed Wednesday...and then got swooped up until the weekend.
I wish I knew how the kiddo got to be 10 years old while I have not aged a day. (Okay, it's wishful thinking here...let me enjoy myself.)
I wish I could figure out how to get my hen and chick seeds to sprout.
I wish for good news to come to those patiently (or anxiously) waiting for grant decisions.
I wish for everyone to enjoy their bonus weekend day - don't we deserve more of these?

Highlights from the week:

Dropped my first UA. And seriously - why is the wording "dropped"...b/c eeeewwww - don't DROP it, please!
Found a praying mantis on my office window - he chilled with me for most of the day (from his side of the screen).
Watched a storm blow over the city skyline - I seriously have a nice view from my temporary location.
Discovered a new "healthified" brownie recipe - will share.
After years of effort - we've FINALLY attracted our very own humming bird! Yeah!

So Not Over It

2010-08-29T18:31:00.004-05:00

At the end of week 2 at the new "temp" job (2 weeks down 14 left to go) - I fell into a sad grief for the loss of my old job.

You see, the problem is that I was really good at my old job. I loved that when I came into work I was mostly in charge of my own day. I knew what to expect. I knew how to do all the work. I knew what was coming up. I knew how to kill time. I knew how to hustle ass and get shit done. I even knew that I'd get my "to do" list for the entire year!

I had my own parking space. I had my own office space. I had my own computer, my own phone, I knew how to order supplies, I knew where to charge copies too. I knew everything - I was the master of my job. Even my supervisor could sometimes offer suggestions, but didn't know all the in's and out's like I did.

Some days were filled with meetings. And regardless of the crazy hour I might have to leave - at the end of the road there were people that I liked and knew and understood. (Minus all the ivory tower overlords.) My phone didn't ring off the hook. The expectations were clear. I had a whole handbook of guidelines to direct me, forms to fulfill every requirement, and while some of it varied from year to year - it was all systematic...once you figured it out and translated what they wanted into what you could deliver.

I miss my old job. Miss it like a dear old friend. And in this area - there is nothing comparable. Nothing even in that field of expertise. So I'm starting over - which may sound like a positive opportunity for growth - but in reality, that means I feel like a newbie straight out of school. I've gone from 'expert of most things' to 'expert of nothing'.

I've discovered that I'm really not so fond of work that is completely people-centered. I don't mind people in small doses - but when your job is one that totally demands on meeting the whims of multiple people (often without resources or logic)...well, it kind of sucks. It's a bit like fighting a forest fire with a water bottle.

I'm also not such a big fan of "traditional work hours'. Add that to the list of things I'm missing - in the old days - if I wanted to start my day early - I could. If that happened - I would also leave early. I didn't take a lunch break and I didn't hesitate to take off when my kiddo got out early - because I always had extra comp hours to burn. When your job revolves around people - it also revolves around their hours - which do not do much for my mommy duties!

And somewhere in the back of my mind - I'm losing faith that I will find a place that fits me (and I it). And that I will be good at, enjoy, and be able to live with the wages. Okay, at the end of the week - that doubt was front and center in my mind, pouring out of my mouth, and making my eyes water. I'm trying to cram it back deep down into the dark place as I prepare for week 3...if you have any extra hope in your pocket...please feel free to send it my way.

Wishing Wednesday

2010-08-26T20:22:00.004-05:00

Week 32: The one that ponders my new / short-lived / temporary job...and that status of the world...

I wish I had a magic wand to fix the problems of people that are trying so hard to get ahead and are still falling short.
I wish mental illness could actually be cured with a pill.
I wish that I had the power to magically make people chill out...do you think yelling at me (or every other person you have contact with) will make me want to bend over backwards to help you?
I wish that everyone had to play by the rules.
I wish that Cobra rates were not so damned high that they could throw me into panic attacks.

Thanks...

I'm thankful for all the chaotic, unbalanced people that find it within their hearts to be nice and talk nice and work nicely with me - while I try to work with them.
I'm thankful for moments that I can balance a need to stand up for myself with the need to avoid physical harm.
I'm thankful (and fearful) for the days I can count down before I'm not in some of these situations anymore. At bad moments my mantra is "only XX days to go..."
I'm thankful for some of the amusing things that have been said to me and that I have been able to say to others because of these experiences.
I'm thankful for a desk, sometimes a phone, and sometimes a computer to do my job with.

Wishing Wednesday

2010-08-18T06:03:00.004-05:00

Week 31:

I wish that my internal alarm was not set for 3AM lately.

I wish that I was not about to report to work for my 3rd day - and that I still have no solid idea of what I am doing, no office, no chair, no desk, no computer, no phone, and only a key to the bathroom / staff lounge - which will at some point be my office.

I wish it was easier to look at the scraps of my old job / old office as they become the "leftovers" for my current (but only 16 week) position.

I wish I could get a grasp on time - how quickly hours get filled, days pass, and wishes pile up.

I wish that as I return from what was officially a "vacation with a little substitute chef-ing" I wasn't having to barter for a parking spot that has been 100% MINE for the past 10 years. (it's just meanness)

And thanks...

Thank you Adult Swim for the pleasant entertainment - at least if I am not sleeping- you have a good show to offer.

Thank you Netflix - for yet another series that I am falling in love with after it's old hat to most viewers...I'm diving into Gossip Girl ...and having flashbacks of the 90210 days (pre-Melrose).

Regardless of the chaos / uncertainty / short shelf life - I am thankful for my extension at the office in this new and very undefined job.

I am thankful for the offers (however crappy) that continue to be mentioned to me - it gives me hope that the dream one will come along.

I am thankful for the cooler weather...it's almost got a hint of fall to it!

What wishes are filling your days?

Wishing Wednesday

2010-08-11T14:33:00.003-05:00

Week 30: Working on borrowed time...

I wish happy b-day to me.
I wish for the weatherman to be right - meaning, that soon my A/C may stop getting an overtime workout.
I wish for some time to brew over some exciting ideas - ideas that will be very share-able should they be ideas I happen to follow through with.
I wish for kindness to kitty's...this week I had a dream that someone was boiling kittens alive...like some people do lobsters...and for the record...eewwww!...then saw a news story about some guy marinating his cat? Stop hating on the cats!
Based on that dream - maybe I should wish for restful sleep.

Thankful:

I'm thankful for great sales!
I'm thankful for recent discoveries of TV shows that are old news to most - but most entertaining to me.
I'm thankful for a change of pace- the ability to be flexible and the opportunity to give different things a try. (Think going from desk job to solo chef for 40-100 people's meal's)
And finally - I'm very thankful for the chance to try a new employment position with my old workplace (but not the evil overlords that kicked us all to the curb). It will be a VERY different line of work, but good or bad - it will only last for 4 months. I will still be looking for a "long term" placement; but I'm thrilled to be able to relocate within the same building - with the same benefits and seniority - and possibly my personal parking spot. (I'm really thankful for my personal parking space.)

Hope the week is filled with many things for you to be thankful for and time to consider your wildest wishes...

The Corn Waits For No One

2010-08-09T19:21:00.003-05:00

It is my favorite season.
No, I'm not referring to the weather - which pretty much could be described as so hot you contemplate peeling off your own skin.

I'm referring to the season of corn. Oh, sweet corn! (Do not confuse this with anything that has ever been served at a restaurant - that is barely food.)
I love the impatience of sweet corn. When it is ready for picking - you must pick it NOW.

It is fast to cook.

I love that when you really know corn - you know that the good stuff is not the overly large kernels. The good stuff is the baby small kernels because they are full of sweetness.

It is fast to pass - sweet corn (or at least the good stuff) is short lived.

This is how it has come that when we have sweet corn - we HAVE corn. Like corn equals a meal for me.

So the other night - I steamed up a pot of corn on the cob. A pot that should have fed everyone in the house...

And somehow, by the time hubby reached the kitchen - the pot had been emptied and was on round 2.

See? Corn season really is short around here.

Wishing Wednesday

2010-08-04T15:45:00.004-05:00

Week 29: Life after Job

I am wishing for a "do-over" with my compost box...I've clearly mucked something up.

I wish my jade plant will forgive me for neglecting it.

I wish that the pests that have invaded my house will soon go away - either of natural causes or poison can be ordered.

I wish for patience and the ability to be focused and still relax.

I wish for a burst of productivity and organization.

And I'm thankful...

...that I do have some time to breathe and that I do not have to take the first low paying crap job that is offered to me.

...that while I may be looking at crap jobs right now - even if I do take one, I'm not committed for a lifetime.

...that while my hen and chick plant died (flowering equals death for hen and chicks) I think I was left with many seeds to start a new adventure.

...that there is time to make changes. Classes to build skills. Chances to move in a new career direction.

And what are you wishing for lately?

Wishing Wednesday

2010-07-27T18:16:00.004-05:00

Week 28: Still searching...

I wish I knew what I wanted to be when I grow up...the clock is ticking.

I wish that Droid would put James VanDerBeek's voice back on their commercials - the new dude sucks.

I wish that I would be able to think up my "dream job".

And then I wish that it would be found on the help wanted ads.

I wish for safe returns from travel.

Thanks: I'm thankful to be done with my knitting project - a shrug.

I'm thankful that the kiddo seems to be doing better with his travels than last time.

I'm thankful for tomatoes that are starting to blush.

Things to Do...Killing Time

2010-07-25T15:00:00.000-05:00

When you suddenly have a lot of time on your hands - there are so many possible ways to fill it...

You could clean your house compulsively -

or not.

But here are some things that have been swirling around in my brain.

1. Learn how to harvest sunflower seeds.

2. Bake like crazy.

3. Do a puzzle. Catch up on some trash TV. Finish that knitting.

4. Lose whole days to job searches online.

5. Learn to make your own flavoring extracts and seasoning mixes.

What would you do if you got had some unexpected free time?

Trophies and Tears

2010-07-24T11:22:00.003-05:00

At the end of baseball season they have a ceremony.

Well, that is a bit false. They distribute trophies. In a parking lot. Out of the back of a truck. Followed by a pool party.

There is no pomp and circumstance. There is no difference between the "winners" and the "not winners". There is no recognition for specific people, specific well-doings, or "just showing up".

Don't get me wrong - it was hot. We were pressed for time. I'm glad it was short and went something like, "Thanks. Here you go."
And by the way - that trophy is MUCH nicer than the one we brought home.

Truth is - my son loves trophies. I HATE them. If you won the Nobel Peace Prize - sure, buy a trophy for the occasion. (likely not plastic-brassy-tacky plastic) If you won the little league championship - yes, buy a trophy. My house does not need a trophy to sum up the 2010 season.

What do you DO with these things? They sit around, collect dust, aren't even personalized. They may be "precious" for like a few weeks. Then the next sport season will start - and we will be onto earning the next trophy. (Read that as paying for it with our registration fees.) It saddens me to think of the number of trophies that are likely in the landfills. Does someone recycle these things? (mental note, find way to reuse these things and make a million dollars with your brilliant idea)

So, we have another trophy. Whooppie.

And onto the tears...the reason we were pressed for time was because my little dude is leaving me for 10 whole days to go on vacation with his dad. 10 days. He's never been gone this long. The last time he "went away" he was gone 24 hours before he called crying hysterically and "needing me". It also took about a half a week before he would leave my side (or the house) upon his return.

I'm hoping that a few years of maturity will make this vacation a little less traumatic. But it's still been a little rough on both of us. He called this morning after being on the road for about 5 hours and I could hear the insecurity in his voice. Of course, it's easy to focus on missing you Mom when you are stuck in a car and knowing that you will continue to be stuck in the car for many, many hours to come.

The tears, so far, have only been on my end. Because I hate to let him go. I hate to have him out of reach - in lands unfamiliar to me - in situations that I can not control or protect. It kind of rips me into pieces.

It will be a long number of days. I'm hoping to fill them with projects, appointments, and to-dos. Wish me luck!

Wishing Wednesday

2010-07-21T16:56:00.006-05:00

Week 27: Where the harsh realities of job searching are sinking in...

I wish there were laws about things people could NOT ask applicants to blindly state - like my salary requirements. I require to be PAID - other than that, does it really matter what I want? Honestly - you have XX$$ to give me, I can take it or leave it...right?

I wish there were laws about things people HAD to say about the employment options...like what it pays. Because if I'm going to tailor my resume and cover letter to your position - only to find out it pays 1/2 of what I will make on unemployment...let's save us both some time, k?

I wish there was a way to quickly detect the 10 worst things/ 10 best things about any job you were considering - again in an easy totally transparent kind of way. You know, don't yank my chain about "fulfilling in creative ways" if you really mean - sell your soul to our company and we will use you up until you are a weak twig that breaks under the slightest pressure...then we will discard you in the alley out back. Doesn't that seem fair?

I wish AGAIN for the crystal ball...some "odd" jobs have come to my attention lately...like being a party planner for cow-people - and no, I'm not making that up. Is this the best thing the universe is going to send me? Seriously - if this is the path I am destined to take - I'm going to need a neon sign...b/c I'm just not feeling the love.

I wish that crabgrass had a mortal enemy - and that this mortal enemy would come battle in my yard. Because I am really in fear that the crabgrass is plotting to take over the world...and based on it's progress in my yard - we should all be very, very afraid.

On the thankful front...
Thankful for vacation hours that were stockpiled.

Thankful for plants that will soon be filling my dinner plate.

Thankful for kind people that say nice things.

And last but not least - I've been thankful a lot lately for iced coffee recipes, and for the reunion of ice cream, Oreo cookies, and hot fudge all together in my bowl.

Hoping that your week is filled with more than you could wish for - all the best!

Survival of Soccer Camp

2010-07-17T09:38:00.004-05:00

Goal 27 was to send the kiddo to soccer camp.

This week - I clocked many hours driving to camp (1/2 day event), sitting and watching camp (making great progress on knitting shrug), and driving home. We spent 15 hours driving and 20 hours improving skills and having fun.

We were able to also visit an out of town pal (goal 6) do some lunch, spend some gift cards at places that are not located anywhere near our homeland and soak up some sun, pool-side. Total success.

And I made a bleacher buddy by tackling goal 15 - and talking to another mom that was a complete stranger. Soccer Mom's Unite!

Additional benefits of the week - I think that I lost several pounds of myself by project "extreme sweat". I got to do lots of people watching - because there is nothing more bizarre to watch than the behavior of parents with young children. I was serenaded every single day by a group of campers that happened to meet in our park shelter for song time. I hope that their songs soon are deleted from my mental play list...you know how the most annoying songs are the ones that get stuck the easiest?

I am close enough to being done with my knitting project that I am now compulsively measuring after every other row...you know, just in case I magically have reached "the end".

On top of all of this - we also wrapped up baseball season. A week full of wins! Adding another 12.5 hours (4 games) of bleacher time to my week. Is it any wonder that my butt wants a bleacher vacation?

Mother nature did NOT behave herself very nicely for the occasion. She did provide the occasional mild breeze (thanks), excessive heat warnings (no thanks), and on the final day...she sent a storm system that I was pretty sure would be the end of us in rush hour traffic. After some frightening moments, driving blind, and pretty much being deaf from the noise of wind / pounding rain...we found the sunshine, slowed our pulses, and returned home safely.

All in all... a very good, but very long week. Hoping to recover this weekend.

Wishing Wednesday

2010-07-15T21:00:00.002-05:00

Week 26: The one where we put on our pretend hats and believe that it's Wednesday...but don't make the week any longer.

I wish for another day of pleasant weather and great progress on knitting project so that I can end my week of sitting through soccer camp on a good note.
I wish for that icky feeling in my throat to NOT develop into something with more significant symptoms.
I wish for clear signs from the universe to point me in the right direction.
I wish for much productivity balanced with a nice amount of relaxing.
I wish for safe travels and safe returns for all the come-ers and go-ers.

Thanks:

for breezes that come out of no where.
for friendly faces that come in and out of our lives.
for hope and things to look forward to.
for sound sleep.

End of Days

2010-07-09T21:57:00.003-05:00

I have officially ended my days in the office.

I have packed requested things. Set OUT OF OFFICE to permanent.

I have thrown away an amazing amount of paper. (In a recycle bin for non-profit organization.)

I have submitted my stacks of files to shred.

I am done.

Except...I keep waking at odd hours of the night and remembering things undone...boxes and shelves unsorted, emails unsent, supplies that could have found a better home.

At some point, I'm sure it will stop mattering. Things will be what they will be.
Things will be thrown away. Things will be sent out to others. And soon, there will be no proof that we were ever there.

Websites will be canceled. Phone lines will be disconnected. At some point email messages will stop coming in - either because I stop answering them or because people figure out we are gone or because we won't have active accounts. We will be a memory.

Being away seems to be better than being there and constantly saying goodbye to every phone call and every email. I feel like the book is shut. And I'm even starting to look forward to the next adventure. Not enough to want it to begin yet.

Just enough to start window shopping without feeling nauseous. Baby steps.

Who's Got the Map?

2010-07-06T16:52:00.003-05:00

Since the amputation of my entire department, I'm pretty emotional.

I waiver between extreme grief for the agency that I wish I was still working with and excitement at the idea of doing something new.

I waiver between fear / total panic at the idea of going somewhere else to work - with new people, new expectations - that whole "not being the expert at your job" is kind of horrifying. I feel like I've been dumped and I'm jumping into dating before I'm even "over it". Maybe I'm not ready to like new co-workers or get to know new office mates?

I think I should take some time to catch my breath and then I go into extreme hysterics that I will never find anything and I better get serious about the searching RIGHT NOW. I think I should have NO expectations - and on the other hand - I think I should set my sights high...I'm a pretty qualified person. (Until you go to look for a job - and suddenly...all the things that make you "special" are non-applicable and make you look totally unskilled.)

I've never collected unemployment - it sounds like something people in this situation should embrace...and then I feel like there's something really wrong with me for considering that ---and what if that benefit runs OUT and I'm still lost? How sad would THAT be?

I've invested some years into polishing my skills in this field - but maybe it's time to move on. Maybe there's a whole other field to consider ---maybe one that's more fun, or has more money, or has more advancement?

I kind of think a "job" instead of a career would be an OK thing - clock in, do it, clock out. No worries. Maybe I could be a dough master (I really saw that advertised) or a PhD of java-mixology (I made that one up). Really, if the money is going to suck regardless of where I go (and so far - nothing comes close)...shouldn't I at least have the advantage of having a blast?

I need a crystal ball. I need direction. I need to have all the offers laid out in front of me so that I can put together the very best poker hand possible...

So if anyone's got the career GPS - please send it my way...

Thank You For Reminding Me...

2010-07-01T21:11:00.004-05:00

So, it's been a head-spinning crazy kind of week since I found out I was no longer "necessary" in the eyes of the evil overlord. And while I am in good company of people that are in the same boat, it still kind of sucks.

But I'm trying to be positive......and this is a reach at such tasks...

Long, long ago - I was dating an idiot. Technically I was engaged to the idiot. But don't hold that against me. It ended - badly. And he spent much of my last year in the same town proving what an ass he was with his behavior and choices. One night, I was particularly upset - and I called him. (dumb girl moment) He - of course, failed to be the support that I needed. He failed epically.

My next obvious step was to call my dad. And his answer was something like this...You deserve better, he's an idiot, he's acting like an idiot. You need to thank him for reminding you WHY you don't want to be with him. Every time he's an ass (there were many examples for me to reference - and many more to come) THANK HIM - at least in your mind. Because he is giving your proof that walking away from him was the right thing - and you should keep going that way.

Yes, you have permission to use this with whatever girlfriend will benefit in the future.

So I'm applying this to my current status of job-less-ness.

1. Thank you for firing me because I already knew you were contemplating firing me...and the idea of sitting with you at a table and having nice conversations for another contract year all the while knowing you are planning my demise - not my idea of fun.

2. Thank you. I will never again have to wonder when you say "don't do this" if you mean "do this" but only when the moon is full or when it's raining on Venus or some other nonsense.

3. Thank you. Because even as you burn all of our jobs to the ground - you can't stop lying and mis-communicating and stepping on toes.

4. Thank you. Because I will never again be accused of "writing my own story" - as if it is my problem that I find it offensive that you'd rather execute people than to ask questions and have conversations about OPTIONS.

5. Thank you. Because you have pushed me into a place that I likely would not have stepped on my own...and while I don't know exactly where that is yet - I'm sure it will be more hospitable than being one of your employees.

6. Thank you for kicking me off your boat. I am pretty sure that karma is going to come take a big chunk out of your ass - and I'd rather not be standing close by when it happens.

7. Thank you - because of the way you handled this entire situation - I think the whole world is one step closer to seeing your true colors. It only takes one power-hungry person to ruin the reputation of an immaculate 20 some year old organization. (Your mother would be so proud.) I think it takes true class to blame the victim - it's a wonder tactic that I often see 3 year-olds use (or bullies or abusers). Congrats on your maturity.

8. Finally, Thank you for reminding me - that if the ONLY nice words I have EVER received from you are two days after you have kicked me off the island...you either didn't have the sense to value me before or you are just being a bad winner. Either way - you officially suck in my book.

My loving and supportive agency - who was NOT responsible, pleased, or supportive of this plan to let my whole department go - has decided to foot the bill for things that our lame-O funders did not value. Like giving us notice, extending our health care two months and paying us for our vacation time - all out of their own not-for-profit pockets. Which reminds me to Thank THEM for being such decent people. And makes me sad that I have to leave.

I'm sure that they will continue to give me reasons to be thankful until the very end...I'll hope that it serves as motivation to push forward and stop looking back.

Theme Song Of The Evil OverLord

2010-06-28T22:37:00.002-05:00

Yes. It's official. I am unemployed.

Life Without Commercials

2010-06-28T10:25:00.004-05:00

Somehow it is already June and I've not done very good about reporting my progress on 101 goals in 1001 days. Sure, I've blocked them out from time to time- but I really haven't "shared".

I talked my son into joining me on the adventure of life without television for 1 week.

Once upon a time I had a handful (okay, more like 2 handfuls) of shows that I kept up on. This year has been a blur and I've given up on all of them.

My TV viewing seems to be mindless hours of Nickelodeon (with child)- watching the SAME episode of the SAME shows over and over and over. (I'm considering muting the television and seeing if we can act out all the lines...because really, it's THAT BAD! But then again he feels that way about Law & Order marathons; so maybe we are even.) My other daily pleasure is King of the Hill - as it has become the opening show for Adult Swim. Sometimes I "watch" it. Sometimes I listen - glasses off / totally blind - but it's a peaceful and pleasurable lullaby for me to fall asleep to.

On weekends I tend to get sucked into a vortex of Lifetime, House Hunting / House Remodeling shows, various shows that I randomly flip through, and Netflix.

Between baseball, summer school, the pool, and "other stuff we should be doing" - I thought this would be about as painless a time as ever to embark on our week without viewing.

And it hasn't been so terrible...

The weekend was the hardest - and I'm thankful that we were out of town and busy to make time pass quicker. I miss Hank on a nightly basis. But I've slept okay every night without the TV running (yes, it generally runs all night - bad habit, I know). Because the weather is either REALLY hot or just kind of hot - missing the forecast hasn't been detrimental. So really during the weekdays - we've barely missed our viewing at all.

We've even talked about doing a little "overtime" and extending it a few days. Or maybe, making it a policy not to watch during the week at all. We'll see ...

I think what we have noticed the most is that we seem to have more time now. More reading is happening. Chores don't get put off as long. No one has gone into shock and needed medical attention.

So there you go. One more goal is close to being met... How about you? Ever gone on a TV vacation? Are you meeting your yearly goals?

Not In My Ice Cream

2010-06-24T08:45:00.000-05:00

For obvious reasons, I am not posting this on the weight loss blog.

And if you are one of THOSE readers - I'm telling you now, I can not be held responsible for any craving that may overtake you after reading about this...

I bought an ice cream maker.

Why? Regina, don't you know ice cream is not the road to weight loss?

(Yes, so I've heard.)

Well, see it all started when someone posted a frozen yogurt recipe. And this reminded me of how much I really enjoy frozen yogurt. And you can't find it in the store. And this makes me crabby. And our frozen custard store went out of business. And that makes me want to cry.

And I love homemade, plain-Jane ice cream. Always vanilla - you don't even have to ask.

I am not opposed to toppings.

And then I was served some really GOOD ice cream from a local shop. And I did the math. I could go bankrupt in a month OR I could buy an ice cream maker.

So I have a new toy. It takes no salt, no hand cranking. Keep it in the freezer all the time - in 10 minutes I can have ice cream.

Except....

Did you know? There are EGGS in lots of those recipes? Like raw eggs. I can't do that.

And the recipes for non-egg ice cream are filled with lots of small amounts of ingredients that I don't buy. So this is problematic to my previous budgeting of how much ice cream I have to eat before I've SAVED us money!

But I also love ice milk. It's so simple. Milk. (I do have to buy whole - which is not normal for us, but is do-able.) Sugar. (And I can adjust this a bit to make it a little more healthy.) Vanilla extract.

Yum.

And no fear of salmonella. Well, almost no fear. You see, while I am offended by ice cream recipes involving raw eggs - there is NO hesitation for me to chop and add some cookie dough.

Logic, smogic. Enjoy!

Wishing Wednesday

2010-06-22T20:42:00.005-05:00

Week 25: The one where I obsess about job loss.

I wish I had a crystal ball.

I wish for a sign from the universe - you know, something subtle like a neon sign with arrows...that says "Go This Way!"

I wish to quickly recover from the "we've stolen your job away" shock.

I wish for the ability to make wonderful first impressions with people that are offering wages that are not in the same pay scale as unemployment.

I wish for my dream job / hiring process to start close to the "return to school" date for my kiddo - so that we don't have to re-think child care for the 5th time this summer.

Thankful that I did catch up with Mr. Mojito and he delivered another glass of magical yumminess!

Thankful that no one is keeping score in my life (or at least they are doing without a huge scoreboard for me to watch).

Thankful that sometimes in life you find people who keep the good memories about you in their "easy access" files.

What are you wishing for this week?

Wishing Wednesday

2010-06-22T06:25:00.001-05:00

Week 24 :

I wish we had some answers regarding who's about to get kicked off our island of employment, who's going to willingly JUMP off the island, and who's going to be left to clean up the mess after everyone else leaves the island. (Maybe that should be a wish for patients and less wordy sentences.)

I wish on my special needs animal post I had not failed to mention my anti-social fish - who has successfully eaten EVERY tank mate (larger, equal size, and same species) out of a 55 gallon tank. Forcing me to put him in a 20 gallon isolation tank where he will live alone the rest of his days - btw, while I see this as punishment - he could care less.

I wish I had taken the package advice a little more seriously about the spacing for the mammoth sunflowers we are growing. Now I'm just praying they don't crowd out / kill my tomatoes.

I wish for the ability to let go of some of the items that are crowding up my space. (And maybe I wish for a mute button for my hubby-dear, who sometimes points this out in a less than helpful / nice way.)

I wish for two opportunity doors to open for every one that is slamming shut.

Thankful for...

The idea that the universe may have a better plan for me than I have for myself. (And kuddos to the Universe for all the eerie-meaningful messages lately.)

Pitching successes (by my son) and occasionally safety equipment that makes pitching failures less painful. (Unlike the one that nailed my kiddo in the back.) :(

I'm really thankful for flowers that have long blooming seasons.

I'm thankful that my toad isn't blogging about me - I don't think he'd have many nice things to say. (And thankful for the frequent smiles I've had from this image that Karen suggested.)

Which also reminds me that I am thankful that my dogs can't talk.

What are you wishing for? Are you balancing that with thanks?

The Line Starts Here

2010-06-19T05:38:00.005-05:00

I'm not even sure what line I'm in yet...

The line for complaints?

The line for fulfilling undiscovered dreams?

The line for the manual that explains how not-to get run over by the "Change" bus?

The line for anxiety medication?

The line for beverages that help to "fuzz out the edges"?

Oh, wait. This may be the line for severance packages and unemployment.

Why? Because, yesterday - near the end of my work day...as I was on a serious roll of productivity and task ass-kicking...(on a FRIDAY - for the record)

Some man (it must have been a man) took out a pen in his ivory tower without windows and managed to eliminate 100% of the funding they provide for my all-important job. (Which is about 50% of my overall funding.) On the eve of my 10 year anniversary.

Ouch.

I know I'm not alone. Everyone that depends on the financially crisis-crazed budgets has been looking at cuts in every direction. And until yesterday - it looked like they were attacking every line item EXCEPT mine. And suddenly project Bracing for Impact started to phase into project Roll With the Punches, Hang On Tight, and Assess Damage When The Ride Comes to A Full And Complete Stop.

In hindsight, I'd rather have had my arm cut off instead of being executed.

Should I be making my way to the unemployment line - I'll bring a case of beverages and some cake - because I will be amongst friends.

But I'm not sure this is the end of the story. Until I was struck with anxiety and insomnia around 3AM I was pretty sure that there is hope. I just MAY make it into the lifeboat. I think that it will work out. I am not deluded by the idea that my job will look ANYTHING like it did 24 hours ago. But I've been there and I've done that. And now, I'll get to do something new.

Maybe in the same building. Maybe with the same benefits. Maybe not. Maybe I'll be cracking books. Maybe I'll be tapping my creative energy. Who knows?

But the times, they are a'changing (thanks Billy for the theme song). Take a number. Wear comfy shoes...we may be here a while.

Special Needs aren't Just For Peeps!

2010-06-16T23:00:00.000-05:00

A while back (OK, it was weeks - time flies) I mentioned that my house has become a magnet for animals with special needs. Here's a short list of what is going on in the world of ME...

1. I have a narcoleptic Plecostomus fish. Incident #1 - He seemed to be passed out in a plant. Incident #2 - Found him sleeping UPSIDE DOWN at the top of the tank (apparently implementing the energy-saving "Dead Fish Float") Apparently the poor fellow eats himself into a mini-coma and then just gives up movement while he digests...this is not normal fish behavior - they usually like to be hidden or seek shelter from other aggressive fish if they are not feeding. At this point, he will be dead for days before I realize he is not just "sleeping it off".

2. I have a head-banging cardinal AND oriel. It's a female. She starts in the morning - flying INTO my window. Curtains up or curtains down. Over and over and over. On days that I've been home - she will do this for HOURS. Sometimes, she starts again in the afternoon. Doesn't matter if food is out there - she still does it. Doesn't matter if the sun is shining or a cloudy day. (It was suggested that maybe she's seeing her reflection? OR not seeing the glass?) It was also suggested that maybe they see a reflection and think it's a "mate"...but that implies EITHER that birds are color blind - or that potentially these birds are gay, since the female and male varieties look so different. So maybe I have head-banging, poor visioned, color-blind GAY birds?

3. I have a fish that is a vain interior decorator. Okay, so it is common for the Oscar fish to move things around the tank. He digs up rock - and I have LARGE rocks in the bottom - not weak little pea gravel - so this is the equivalent of weight lifting. And by saying "he digs up rock", what I really mean is that i smooth it out to cover the bottom nicely. And he digs it up to build 2 mountains on each side of the tank leaving the middle of the tank open- where he dances and dances around his reflection admiring himself from every angle. He has also buried the "ancient ruins" decoration - so either he doesn't like it or is re-enacting the scene of a landslide. He prefers his plants and heater to float in the tank instead of be mounted. AND recently, he started a new behavior of removing the filter tube from the filter - and burying it in the rubble as well. Perhaps he is part DOG?

4. I have a squirrel that needs behavior management. I am sure that to some extent all squirrels taunt dogs. But I have one - let's call him Chip - that has become a master. I should pay him for giving my dogs a workout...because between their hide and seek / tag games and all the tracking they do to find out where he's been...my dogs are pretty active. And the squirrel is building his self-esteem with each day that goes by because his bravery is growing by leaps and bounds. He was on our deck yesterday - drinking water from the dog bowl - WHILE the dogs were following his path...let's just pray his luck holds out! For if the pups ever get a hold on him...it's not going to be pretty - for either party! Because they are definitely in the same weight class division!

5. I also have a toad that is stalking me! Last year, he scared me on more than one occasion right off the steps of the deck - where he apparently decided to take up house. This year - we keep crossing paths. First, in our new garden site (where I removed his house to make room for the raised garden). Then, near the side door - where he had taken up a temporary shelter under my recently purchased potting soil. Then in a flower bed - under the mulch...after this encounter he relocated in the exact same bed in the exact spot where I needed to plant a week later. And just yesterday - he found me again as I was trying to weed another flower bed. Each of our meetings go something like this...me bent over very near the area, ground begins to move, I scream bloody murder, scramble to get away, and then try to calm my pulse and breathing while he stares blankly in my direction. I don't mind him being there - but if he could announce himself a little better that would be highly appreciated.

6. And lest you think I don't have any animal fun at work - this week I was greeted in the office by a gang of flies. Bad enough to have the critters around at all (and it's quite a mystery HOW they got to our office- it's like Fort Knox) but these seem to have attended kamikazes school and really enjoy dive-bombing people. I don't think I've ever been so happy to count down the days of the life of a fly before.

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-06-16T10:58:00.005-05:00

Week 23:

I wish my Duck-Dog would stop spitting out her medicine-filled cheese, separating the items, and eating only the one she finds desirable!

I wish to successfully complete my own medication today - Finally! I can manage to get ONE of the TWO doses in me per day...and can only take with food...leading to a 5 day medicine taking about 10 days to complete.

I wish I could locate - and then wear -the one swimsuit that I own that comes closest to being flattering - or at least not likely to result in gasps, stares, or laughter.

I wish for time and energy to tap into all the creative energy that is flooding my mind recently. (And let me clarify - I am NOT asking for insomnia so that I have more hours in the day.)

I'm wishing for more wisdom and patience - two things that I'm pretty sure you can not O.D. on!

On the list of Thankful Things....

Thankful for medicine that stops my dog from quacking!

Thankful that the vet has weekend hours so we didn't have to pay the emergency fee to help her stop quacking!

Thankful that the huge anaconda that was apparently WRAPPED around my child at SCHOOL yesterday had been fed recently enough that he wasn't tempted to snack on my kiddo.

Thankful that my glasses arrived and are FINALLY correct! (4 returns and 4 months later...but who's counting)

Sometimes (not often) but at least once recently, I have been thankful for the slowness of bureaucracy and the hurdle of red tape!

What Does the Dog Say?

2010-06-14T16:12:00.005-05:00

I am sure -my excellent readers - that you long ago mastered your animal noises.

So if I told you that Saturday morning my son awoke to an odd noise....

And that this odd noise caused him to inquire "When did we get a duck?"

You would assume that the noise was...or sounded very much like a Quack!

And you would be right.
The confusion enters when I tried to explain that the Quack noise was coming from our smallest dog - and while her nickname is Goose, she is in fact all dog and should NOT be quacking.

But in case you have a small dog - and in case they ever start quacking....I want you to know, that after you stop laughing (and I strongly suggest recording the noise - because no amount of description does that noise justice) that you should call your vet.

Because our poor little puppy had a fever and an upper respiratory infection. Lucky we caught it in time to prevent dehydration or further complications. She will be fine after a few days of medicines and cough medicine to stop the quacking. And in the meantime, she is just happy for all the little "treats" of pill filled cheese!

I'm thankful that our son is old enough to know that the dog doesn't usually say Quack - because I can just imagine the worried looks that would have inspired from his teachers!

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-06-09T12:43:00.005-05:00

Week 22: Where I'm trying to get my head on straight.

I wish I wasn't feeling like the Universe is picking on me.

I wish for no more pool leaks, no more lost items, and a general break from drama. Please I'm begging for mercy here!

I wish I had a buy 2 get 1 free plan with the repair dude that keeps coming to see me with my lack-of-hot-water-issues.

I wish I could choose which medical tests I could fail and which ones I could pass.

I wish that anyone else waiting for medical test results would receive the results they were wanting to hear.

I am thankful for good conversation that passes the many hours that I'm spending sitting on bad bleachers watching mostly bad baseball.

I am so thankful when things WORK. It's a novel idea - I know.

I am thankful for new found resources and people.

I am thankful that while my day stared with much drama - at least it started.

Maybe I should try to convince myself that I am happy for all of the work-place drama (I mean, transistion)...it's like having a soap-opera cliff hanger every day...and every day you come back thinking you will FINALLY learn the truth...but it's drug out for another week or two... I'll work on that one. :)

What are you wishing for?

Mr. Mojito Where Have You Gone?

2010-06-05T20:40:00.005-05:00

I fell in love with the mojito about a year ago. Thanks to a lovely lady - who could have easily become one of my best friends in the world - if only she was better at email communication and had a less busy schedule and didn't live clear across the state...

But she did introduce me to the wonderful mojito and for this I will be eternally grateful. And while I am not a frequent or heavy drinker by any stretch - when I do indulge, I now have this drink on the top of my wish list.

At a dinner meeting (off the clock) I recently decided to visit my friend Mr. Mojito at a local Mexican restaurant. I was served the best mouth-watering beverage I had ever encountered.

When I went to pay the bill - the young bartender asked me how I enjoyed my drink - and I was very happy to slather him with compliments. Soon I discovered that he had only recently learned how to make this variety - which included tequila and some other alcohol that I'd never heard of. I was really surprised to hear the ingredients that I had just willingly ingested and purely enjoyed...but mostly, I was just left with the impression that this was my new favorite place to order my favorite drink.

For over a week - I dreamed about the beverage. Passing the word onto others that it was pure liquid heaven in a glass. So on our next date night - I suggested that spot as a dinner option.

And I was served a mini-version without a sugar-rimmed glass filled with an icky but drinkable beverage - garnished with lime. To say that it was disappointing ...those words are simply not strong enough. It had gone from the "best ever" to the "never again" list. My dear friend - Bartender Mr. Mojito was not on duty.

When the server asked how I was enjoying my drink - I was honest that it was not making my mouth happy and I nicely demanded (requested) to know when My Mr. Mojito would be working again.

I'm already searching for a Mojito buddy to join me and redeem my memories of the yummy drink! If he can not recreate the golden liquid---I will chalk it up to a once in a lifetime bliss-and-joy experience in a glass. Cross your fingers and join me for happy hour.

What's your wonder-beverage? Can you get it anywhere or do you count on a few special mixers to make magic in your glass?

Can You Feel The LOVE?

2010-06-04T09:13:00.016-05:00

Karen over at A Peek at Karen's World tagged me with this!

Ah, how much do you love being loved? SOOOO MUCH!

So here is where I share with you lucky readers 10 things that I LOVE!

(In no particular order.)

1. I love sleep.

Not in a sleep all day kind of way. But in a way that makes me very serious about sound snoozing. I like feeling rested and waking with a clear head (which doesn't happen nearly as much with the seasonal change right now). So it's no surprise that I get pretty close to 8 hours of sleep each night - I work even better on 9!

2. I love plants.

There is something very happy about growing things from seed or pinching it from one plant to make a whole new plant. This is why I have a long list of gardening experiments in my life...trying to grow a 7 foot wide hosta, propagating a jade plant from a single leaf, pinching my impatiens so I can be cheap and still have flowers everywhere, growing a pineapple plant from what would have been compost (he just turned a year old) and the list goes on...

3. I love it when I make myself chill out and take it easy.

This is closely related to my love of the beach. And to my love of flying kites. And to my love of hammocks. And to my love for my reflexologist. And to my love of getting swept up on movies / books. And to my love of plants. And to my love of knitting - which teaches me patience.

4. I love food.

Food is fun. Food makes me smile. I love the smells. I love the people that flock to it. I love to master making it. I love to make it taste better and be more nutritious. Is it any wonder I co-write "Does This Blog Make Me Look Fat"? I assure you - this is not by accident.

5. I love my animals. (and some of those that aren't mine)

My puppies make me feel like a rock star when they dance at the door just to see me. (Even when I just stepped outside a minute ago.) I love that they find comfort in being around me (so much that we have renamed them the pup-arrazzi). I love it when they listen and I love to see them be frisky and happy. I also love my fish - who dance wildly as I walk by their tanks or throw rocks to get my attention. I am mystified by sea creatures in general.

6. I love the people I share my life with!

My hubby. My super kiddo. Real life friends. Bloggy friends. Friends I'm soon to make. People that think I know stuff. People that know I don't know anything - but like me anyway. And even a few reoccurring strangers... the grounds keeper for the building behind my workplace stops working to wave and smile at me - and I don't even know the mans name, but he's priceless on a grumbly-dreadful-morning!

7. I love being creative.

This makes me hard to live with - because I'm always onto the next thing. I like to craft. I like to knit. I like music. I like writing. I like to cook. And generally all of these inspirations occur at the same time. My husband would say this makes me a clutter bomb for our house. But you have to answer when the muse calls.

8. I love being the mixed-up creature that is ME.

It's not an easy job and I doubt that anyone else wants it. Every time I take one of those personality quizzes - I am a perfect split between introvert and extrovert. This means I am very social - until I am not. I need balance. I crave it. I am equal parts quiet and loud. I am equal parts routine and mixing it up. And if I get stuck on one side or the other - I tend to get moody.

9. I love the small things.

Small dogs. Baby animals. Small children. Museums of miniatures. Small purses. Small cars.

And then I love the small things...like the sunshine, birds chirping, a new blossoms on a flower, a nice writing pen in a fun color, a note from a friend, a message in my inbox, technology that works, communication that is clear, a new tube of chap stick, a pound dropped, spell check, a comment on a blog page - it really doesn't take much to excite me. (One definite exception to this is diamonds - I prefer them large.)

10. I love my to-do list and notes to self.

I doubt that a day goes by without me making a list. A list of books to read. A list of things to do. A list of grocery items. A list of projects. The list goes on... Do I complete them? Not always, maybe not even often. I often lose them in my purse or car. But for me - writing it down makes it "stick" in my brain a little better. So I often write the grocery list and then - even if it's with me in the store - I shop without checking it. If you find me checking things off my list - it is a sign that I am stressed and overwhelmed!

And now - I am charged with spreading the love and tagging others with doing this same task.

By all means, if you aren't listed...feel free to spread some love yourself and please, let me know you did! Report 10 things you love and tag 10 more people! (I'm following Karen's lead and tagging 10+1)

Kristin @ Write It Down

Erin @ Dutch Girl Diary
Tricia @ Endurance Isn't Only Physical
Lisette @ Fancy Frugalista
Mary @ Giving Up On Perfect
Funny @ In My Mind I'ts Always Funny
Sweet Pea @ Newlyweds
Cole @ All The Small Stuff
Tina @ Tina's Place
Megan @ Twinsomnia
Michelle @ Honest and Truly

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-06-02T08:23:00.004-05:00

Week 21: 80% chance of grumpiness with happiness expected for the weekend.

I wish the puppy would stop having an upset tummy...it has caused rough mornings for me!
I wish I could take a nap...since I was up about every hour of the night (with the dog).
I wish that the concrete dudes would fix the catastrophe of a mess they have made in the backyard and complete the project.
I wish for patience as I wait (again) for the concrete to dry / cure...causing a 3 day wait (again) before putting up the pool. It's June people...MOVE IT!
I selfishly wish for rain during those 3 days - so that I'm not wishing I was in the pool. (And so that Mother Nature can take care of watering the plants that she tortured all night with her high winds and lashing rain.)

As a bonus wish: I wish to stop thinking evil thoughts about the concrete dude that RAN OVER my brand new hosta. One would think that being on the total opposite side of the yard would ensure safety? Clearly not.

Hoping for the grumpiness to pass quickly and for a good -rest of the week. What are you wishing for this week?

Wishing It Was Wednesday

2010-05-21T11:41:00.007-05:00

Week 20: (Notice I have counted and have myself back on schedule! Now if only the week wasn't breezing by me...)

Thankful that - I have mastered the ability to count and know what week we are on.

Thankful that - the concrete dudes must read my blog - they showed up that very afternoon after last weeks wish!

Thankful that -hosta's arrived in healthy status - even if they were late.

Wishing for...

I wish that this "not hungry" phase would last long enough to jump start some lowering scale numbers.

I wish that time in the office would pass as quickly as time off.

I wish that a certain gal pal would meet her Mr. Perfect.

I wish for nice weather for the holiday weekend (this would also enable the quicker completion of the concrete pad).

Hope your week is flying by with lots of wishes coming true!

How To Scare the Bejeabers Out of Your Child

2010-05-21T08:57:00.000-05:00

My son and I were having one of our rambling-chatty-not-so-focused conversations early on a weekend morning. It involved a cuddly blanket. And two dogs.

One of the dogs had plopped herself right on top of the blanket. And of course, this added heat made my child decided he no longer wanted to be covered up. He was asking if she liked to be covered up and I thought her snoring was a pretty good indication of a failure-to-care...so I tucked her in tight. He commented "Now She Will Be A Butterfly."

And I saw the light bulb in his head turn on. His eyes widened.

"Mom, Did I ever tell you about how they scared me at daycare?"

I brace myself - mind fast forwarding through horror stories, possible ways my child has been damaged, and begin planning my revenge on the soul that has emotionally damaged my child in a manner that he can only bear to speak of it 4 years later.

"At nap time, I liked to have the blanket tucked real tight around me. They said I was rolled up tight like a caterpillar in a cocoon. But you know, Mom it's really a crysilis - because a cocoon is for a moth, and a crysilis is for a butterfly."

I nod.

"She told me, 'When you wake up you will be a butterfly.'

"That really bothered me because I thought about it and if I was a butterfly I wouldn't see you anymore. And maybe you wouldn't be my Mom anymore? Or I thought maybe I would see you and I'd be yelling "Mmmmmooooooooommmmmmm!!!" and you wouldn't even notice me- because I wouldn't look like your kiddo anymore. And I was scared and worried. And I tried not to fall asleep that day."

(Sigh of relief.)

See how that was SO innocent? How many cutesy things do we say to kids every day that causes them undo concern and stress? And while I'm mostly amused by his rambling - it reminds me that you just can't make too many assumptions when communicating with children.

This is the same child that was certain we would see witches in Wichita...

Wishing Wednesday

2010-05-18T23:00:00.000-05:00

Week XX? : who knows?

I wish I had mastered the skill of counting and that I could know how many weeks we've been at this.

I wish for answers to my summer school / child care / transportation to summer school / vacation schedule issues.

I wish for quickness on the parts of the concrete masters that will be building a pool pad - seriously people clock is ticking, get here soon.

I wish for the survival of my new orchid...may it be resilient and long blooming.

I wish that my glasses order would be right, fast, and that I will be properly rewarded for not shoving them up their arses the first two times they mucked up the order.

Frozen Puppy Treats

2010-05-17T21:05:00.000-05:00

With summer coming up (if it ever stops raining)- I was very happy to find this healthy, cold treat for the Pups! This recipe is very similar to a product that I had previously purchased in the store - but at a greatly reduced cost and higher nutrition!

Honestly, I was most interested in trying this recipe out because I accidentally bought plain yogurt and it just wasn't the flavor (or flavor-less) for me! The pups were thrilled with my accident!

1 cup peanut butter (natural is good- even for dogs)
32 oz plain low fat yogurt

Put peanut butter in the microwave for a few seconds until it is melted. (Try 30 seconds and stir.)
Combine with yogurt.
Scoop into cupcake papers (I have small dogs so I used a silicone mini-cupcake pan for smaller serving sizes.)
Put into freezer. (About 4 hours.)
Once cups are frozen pop them out (if using silicone) and put in freezer bag for storage.

You can serve them straight out of the freezer - or let them soften at room temp for a few minutes...my girls like to dig right in.

So simple and puppy approved!

Signs of Life

2010-05-17T08:09:00.000-05:00

I may have mentioned before that I am in inpatient gardener. So imagine my frustration when over a year ago I was shopping (for plants- which in my mind is often better than clothes or shoes). Anyway, Mom found one of those generically labeled plants that had a unique shape and attractive leaves - and was the only one left. So of course, regardless of it's generic instructions for care - it was a "must have".

We were not even to the parking lot before plant envy set in. And being the super-duper Mom that she was - she offered to take one of the little branches - which was almost broken off anyway, and send it home with me.

One year later the damned single-leaf plant has been well cared for, well sunned, but not too sunned - well watered but not too watered. And for about 8 months - it's only sign of life was that it was green. It did not grow at all.

And then...right about when I was thinking "Great. I'm going to be 100 years old and someone will be cleaning out my house and they will wonder why I have kept a plant with one leaf. And hopefully they will think I've only had it for a few months." ...but as if the plant sensed the doom that was sneaking up on it....it sprouted a ever so small - barely visible to anyone that wasn't compulsively watching...new leaf.

Flash forward another 6 months and you would see the exact same picture. That new bud - seemed frozen in time. Green, but not growing.

Mother Nature must have hit the "start" button some time in February...because that barely visible nub - has turned into THIS...

Not only has it rewarded me with super fast growing but look at those colors! (Old leaf is plain green - new leaf has with yellow and white. And I'm not sure that you can tell - but there's another leaf forming. I'm crossing my fingers that it's not going to go into hibernation before it decides to grow too.

On another gardening front...

I am also the kind of gardener that often has to learn things the hard way.

You know, they say - after blooming season is past, discard your paper white bulbs.

Well, I don't.

I keep them and let them finish out their life cycle and all the while reflect on how this is likely one of the marketing ploys of the gardening world to make us act out our compulsive "disposable" lifestyle even in the garden section. I'll let you know how it turns out...

Also, they say that Gerber Daisies are nearly impossible to grow from seed - yes, I tried it all last summer. Because I love them and I couldn't bear the thought of life without some Gerber blooms. They all failed - I even sorted through the millions of seeds to find the "fat ones" -which are said to be the fertile ones...failure was all I had to show.

Likewise, when they say that you can grow a Jade plant from a single leaf. You know I have got to give it a try. Because who doesn't love making one plant from another plant? The challenge... the skill... the frugality!

Now, I'm not proud to say that I've killed my share of Jade plants in the past. I have struggled with the delicate balance of "dry" without turning that into "totally forgetting to water for months on end followed by a wet season to make up for such errors."

I may be past that now. I've been host to a new Jade plant for almost a year now - and he is not only surviving but seems to be growing and reports to me that he is very happy. On one or two occasions he has dropped a leaf (because of my shady past with this plant - I would dare not harm it just for the sake of an experiment). I read that dropped leaves is normal and not a sign of "user error". So I rejoiced.

And planted the leaf - b/c, you know by the time I am 100 years old - that could be a whole plant. (enter mad-scientist laugh here)

And - several months later - please see the results. (Sorry it's fuzzy - too small to get a good pic with the details...)

There are about 4 leaves in here. (One is clearly dying.) The one with the largest growth has been going about 8 months. The first 3 were without any signs of roots. (Timeline not guarenteed accurate - because it is based on my brain so it was either 3 months or it FELT like 3 moths) The last additions (the other 3 leaves) have been added in the last 2 months and they are taking off fast - so maybe I've finally mastered the right amount of water. (Current system = look at plant, it appears dry, resist the urge to water. Repeat the next 8-10 times you have this thought. Then when thought occurs the 11th time - act on impulse and water - less than you think you should...almost like you are punishing the plant and denying it a full sized drink.) But two of the leaves have new leaf buds on them.

I know you probaly can't tell in the picture - but this is all taking place in a 1/2 inch painted terra cotta pot. Have you ever spotted those? Usually sold with seed packets in the $1 section...the seeds always flop out - or live and then need to be transplanted - and get damaged as you move them out and try to seperate them....it's the equivilent of plant torture....

We had 2 plant torture pots - so in the other I experimented with some branches that dropped from my "Irish Bouquet". I got this plant at Lowes - it was with the succulents - I have searched for plant info - because the directions were very vague - I've found nothing and I've never seen another one anywhere else.

But when some leaves dropped - I thought the plant was similiar(ish) in nature to a Jade - so I popped them in dirt. And they are happily living (though not growing much) in their new location.
Coming soon...instructions for making your very own pots to start seedling in!

See how I'm trying to contaminate you with my Spring Fever?

Evil Book Hoarders

2010-05-15T21:29:00.000-05:00

We will ignore the fact that this story occurs on a night that I had spent way too many hours on the road to reach a meeting where I would spend way too many hours listening to things I already knew - and would be held hostage under the premise of a "typo" - and then get back into the car for way too many hours to come home almost two hours late.

We will ignore the fact that my child was anxious about my departure before he knew that my return time would be post-bedtime. And that I'm lucky enough to have him think that my presence at home is a NICE thing.

So I came home - tired and feeling robbed of moments of my life.

And nearly an hour AFTER bedtime, my son busts out of his bedroom with PANIC in his eyes. He's already in tears and I can tell this is about to be a not-so-simple problem to solve.

And this is what he says - in my words.

His teacher is on vacation - or break - or whatever it is that teachers do when they abandon their classes to the watchful eye of some half-knowing schedule-breaking substitute. In her absence the librarian has decided to practice her bullying skills on young children.

The crazed-paranoid lady has 3 weeks left of school and she's screaming-mad as if she's lost her child instead of taking part in a system that has been working perfectly fine ALL YEAR LONG! (You know - we check out books. We read them. We return them in a timely manner ---we should have a good library rating...we are very reliable.) However, for some reason, books that are not even due - are suddenly needed RIGHT NOW!

Maybe this wouldn't be such a fretful event...if it were not for the fact that we have a country report due in 1 and 1/2 weeks. Or so we thought...apparently, the librarian feels that in the absence of the regular teacher - she can threaten that the due date is really TOMORROW! ???

(I mean is this kind of transfer of power covered in the school handbook?)

Now, we've had this project for a little over a week - we generally have about 3 weeks to work on these reports. And about 2 weeks in -we start (and by we I mean I start saying "time to do it" and he starts doing it) reading about the country and getting ideas for the report and poster. And as per our normal schedule - we've been thinking about it and getting started with the process.

But he's put nothing on PAPER. And he certainly doesn't have enough knowledge about this country on his own - I dare you to list facts about landscapes, people and culture, and wildlife of Mozambique without a reference book. (And yes, I'm familiar with the Internet -but at this stage they want you to use their references so they can ensure you are getting trained on how to not plagiarize.)

So the evil book hoarder is dying to get her hands on the Mozambique reference book and telling my son he needs to complete a 3 week project in one evening. (Did I mention - she's clearly lost her mind? And her sense of limitation of power and authority?)

I'm sure there was a "correct" thing to say. Or maybe there was a "better" thing to say.

And for the record, we are a very rule-abiding family. But I could not stop the words from falling out of my mouth....it went something like this..... "It's 9:30. You are going to bed. Your report will be done by the DUE DATE - you know, the one your TEACHER gave you. You are NOT taking the book back. If she asks, you will say 'I'm not done yet.' (he's gasping at the idea in fear) She can't hit you. She can't give you a bad grade. She shouldn't yell at you. You can tell her that you will do it as quickly as you can, and in the mean time if there's further concern she can call your mother or send me a bill."

Was that wrong? Or is it more wrong that she's scared my child to the point of tears?

It is becoming a common theme that so many adults lack the ability to PLAN based on a time line. It's an epidemic! Seriously people. Choose the date when you need it done. Count backwards to set goals of the steps you need to do to complete in order to meet the deadline. It's not that tricky. Or maybe it is...

I'm marking my calendar for next school year for 3 weeks before school ends. At that point I'll be sending a note to school - here's my rough draft...

"Dear Teacher (And yes, by then I will know her name)

Please excuse my son from checking out library books for the rest of the school year.

We have an extensive library at home. We visit the public library weekly. I assure you - he will continue to be a reader for the next 3 weeks of school and beyond.

But if it's all the same with you, I'd like to save your librarian the cost of anti-anxiety meds and leave the books in her care and custody. I'd like to save my child from the harassment and kidnapping accusations - because anyone who makes my child cry with panic and fear of unknown punishments is not what we would refer to as a "nurturing and enriching" and therefore, I do not find it necessary for my child to have contact with them in the midst of their end of the year outbursts.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Wishing Wednesdays - 16

2010-05-12T11:51:00.002-05:00

Wishing Wednesdays: 16

I wish I could get credit for my gardening workout on my pedometer.

I wish I could figure out how to knit in my sleep (or while exercising) so that I could make progress two places.

I wish that the animals around my house were not possessed with special needs. (more to come)

I wish I had known about the cruelty involved in the "making" of one of my fish. (Please don't support this practice.)

I wish I could spread respect around the world like icing on a cake. (Mmmmm. Cake.)

A wish for my son....I wish that Librarians would not become posessed crazy-book-hoarders as the school year closes. (more to come)

Thanks for the week -
I am thankful (and equally haunted) by the discovery of a local bakery about 2 blocks away from me.

I am thankful for the huge hosta order on the way to my house.

I am thankful that this crazy thing called "my job" has allowed me to meet some really neat-o people...and that they are always on my "reasons to hang in there" list.

Random Crazy Dreams

2010-05-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes it doesn't pay to go to bed early...

1. The birds.

There was a seriously large penguin, a parrot, and some other large bird walking toward me - thier faces were filled with menacing evil. Clearly they were going to peck me to death.

2. Death by Snake Bite

I was being forced to be bitten by a poisionous snake. (Serious phobia alert!) I was trying to debate would it be better to be bitten by the scary large snake - who would likely kill me quicker or by the smaller snake - would would maybe have smaller teeth but might not kill me as quickly. I was still debating and trying to hold the small snake back - it slithered around in it's sneaky-snake way and the fangs went straight through my hand - and it was STUCK there. (My heart races as I type the words.)

3. I mapped out my entire back yard in flower beds.

Who needs grass? My hubby would be perfectly happy if he only had to mow paths in the backyard. So after a day of plant shopping and spring fever - I thought it best to dream compulsively about plant's light needs and good flower-bed mates and adult heights and fertlizer needs. It was not a plan that involved restful sleep.

4. The dream where you forget you are married.

Do you ever have this? A perfectly innocent dream about some love interest and then you REMEMBER - in your dream (because in real life I NEVER forget that I am married - not even for a second - certainly not long enough to FLIRT) that you are married and then you feel horrible in your dream for "cheating" even though you know it was a dream - one that you are still dreaming. Exhausting.

5. It's spring and I'm fearful of winter storms.

We had a long relentless winter. Has this scarred me? Maybe so. Because recently I was planning a large event and for a week had dreams that we were going to have a snowstorm that day - and that my speakers wouldn't be able to make it in...but the money wasn't refundable....and what would I do? Luckily - no snow. Not even rain.

6. The Ducks have weapons.

I'm wondering what has caused my dream-land aversion to birds. But after getting some house work done (in real life) and having the realization that we have a woodpecker living near us / visiting our house / and sometimes pecking it (in real life) I had a dream that I chased the woodpecker with a broom only to find myself surrounded by angry ducks. Each was armed with extra large bills. Is death by pecking a common fear?

7. Being lost, losing things, and wandering aimlessly.

I don't need a dream interpretation degree to deduce that this just MIGHT be related to the emotional rollercoaster of uncertainty known current as "my job".

8. Again with the birds.

I'm holding a baby bald eagle - he's wickedly pecking my hand. Why am I holding him? Don't know. Why is he relentlessly pecking me? Maybe he wants me to let go?

9. Jolly Giants

I'm going to a professional basketball game (alone)- have no clue how to get there, it involes much travel, and I'm very late starting. I get there and I have a front row seat - which interestingly is an office chair on wheels that slides wonderfully all over the court sidelines. I call my son to see who I should cheer for - but I don't even know who is playing (they are team green and team blue). I can't hear him b/c there are a flood of people coming into the arena.

The teams are warming up and one player comes over to say hi. (Of course, I don't know WHO he is - just that he's famous.) And he's a giant. Like he squats down with his knees on the floor and he's still towering over me. And I scream (b/c that is what short people do when towered over by freakishly tall men). And it makes the headlines in the paper the next day.

Maybe it's a side effect of the weather...but I'm looking forward to the return of RESTFUL sleep.

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-05-04T19:04:00.003-05:00

Week 16:

I wish I was not feeling like a science experiment gone wrong.

I am wishing to possess a fantastically large hosta that is new on the market.

I wish mulch didn't have a way of disappearing on a yearly basis.

I wish for the patience to just "ride out" the changes that are being thrown our way at work.

I wish my child was not obsessed with hydrophobia - thank you Old Yeller.

On a thankful note -

I'm thankful for allergy shots - seriously has changed my life.

I'm thankful for beautiful "open window" days and nights.

I'm thankful for well-being and for the reminder that it shouldn't be taken for granted.

What are you wishing for this week?

The Problem with Being Your Own Pack Leader

2010-04-30T20:42:00.001-05:00

If you are considering bringing a dog into your home - beware, consider this post your warning!

In our house...we have these two poochies and three people. It appears that I am the only one that "speaks dog". I am the only one that can interpret the dog cocking her head to the side and doing an anxious dance....(that means, please check our water bowl and you will see that it is EMPTY.)

IF, you are preoccupied and don't catch on quickly. They will revert to doing the "stand on back two legs and jump repeatedly for the ceiling" if you happen to turn the faucet on at the kitchen sink... you see how they are?

Anyway, somehow - the dogs have come to learn that I am the person that will meet their physical needs. Let me clarify....

I am the ONLY person that will meet their needs.

Now, in all fairness - this is not really the truth of the situation. The child will feed or water the dogs if this need is pointed out to him. He will let the dogs out. He will let the dogs in. (Usually with prompting.)

Hubby has also mastered the art of dog care- in the event that I am not home (be that for an evening or for multiple days).

BUT, if I am home...the dogs will not accept the care of anyone other than their pack leader. Sure, it sound cute and like it's a complement of adoration....

Fast forward to any point in the middle of the night...hubby may be just coming to bed - I may already be in deep slumber mode. IF the dogs decide they need to go outside - NO amount of prompting from hubby will suffice. I will have to get up to let them out or they simply won't go (yet they will continue to skitter across the wood floor in a pacing manner from their bed to the bedroom door in a maddeningly disturbing way until you wake up).

It does not matter if I am sick. It does not matter if I have worked 40 hours in 3 days. It doesn't matter if I'm grumpy. They simply won't accept an offer from anyone else to meet their night time potty needs if I am present in the house.

Something to consider, if you are thinking that "Pack Leader" sounds like a good title. The fine print = solid night sleep no longer guaranteed.

Wishing Wednesdays - 15

2010-04-28T11:17:00.003-05:00

I wish last Wednesday hadn't escaped me - the whole week flew by before I knew what happened...may have something to do with many extra hours worked and many committments after hours.

I wish for my current blooms to last at least until the next batch shows signs of promise for future blooms.

I wish for state budgets to be decided - hopefully without eliminating my entire field of work.

I wish for more organiziation and less chaos.

And lest you think I've been asking for wishes for 15 weeks straight without being thankful....

I'm greatly thankful for the tulips - I smile every time I let the dogs out / in / and back out again. (I think they have spring fever too.)

I'm thankful for the signs of returning life of plants that have survived our brutal winter.

I'm thankful for changes and excitment in life.

I'm thankful for pleasant weather and time spent outside.

What are you wishing for? And are you balancing that with gratitude?

5 Second Fish

2010-04-15T16:00:00.000-05:00

In our house - we like resiliency.

There is a reason that I am drawn to plants that say "low maintenance".

There is a reason that I am thankful when the dogs are smart enough to "tell me" that they have a physical unmet need - you know, like food or water.

And there is a reason that when it comes to fish - we like the tough kind.

The kind that can go without weeks without regular feedings, that are strong enough to survive water in less than ideal pH levels, and that are not prone to disease or early expiration.

When I purchase these fish (which is seldom) I know they will not play nicely with others but I also know they will be around for many days.

And then....

For my birthday this year I got 2 parrot cichlids. While the cichlid breed is pretty strong and pretty aggressive, the parrot has some behavior tendencies but lacks the ability to act on it with great conviction for two reasons.

1. They are chicken, skidd-ish fish and like to spend much time in hiding.

2. They have a smaller mouth opening - which slows them down when it comes to eating their tank mates.

Because of their nervous nature, they do better when they have some kind of schooling fish to assure them that all is well in the world. After some research, we found picked out a tank-mate that should have been a lovely match. We added 5 to the tank. Slowly, they began to disappear.

We noticed that this often happened when my work schedule got out of control. (Read as: I forgot to do regular feedings - motivating the big fish to pick on the small fish.)

When I realized that I was part of the problem. I resumed feeding and went to the store to pick up some fish - as I had one lone survivor.

Imagine my horror when I literally released the fish - and it immediately ended up in the mouth of a big fish. It did manage to escape. But only to be captured in the mouth of the second big fish. By the next morning - we once again found the tank with only one lone survivor - bless his heart, the same little yellow guy.

Lessons learned?

1. Fish warranties are no good when there is not a body to bring back.

2. Old fish can learn new tricks when properly motivated by starvation.

Wishing Wednesday

2010-04-14T16:13:00.004-05:00

Week 15:

I wish there were fewer weeds in my rock garden - already.
I wish there were fewer weeds in my work life.
I wish it were the season of Weed (the show, not the plants and not the drugs).
I wish I had a crystal ball - and could tell if it is too soon to plant the elephant ears that will soon spend months torturing me by taking forever to surface.
I wish for a highly successful growing season, a long spring and a mild summer.

How about you?

Wishing Wednesdays - 14

2010-04-07T08:00:00.003-05:00

Week 14:
The one that is dedicated to a select few of my co-workers:
(And while it sounds crabby - this week has not been quite as intolerable as others.)

I wish you did not often motivate me to try out the theory that "Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder"...so far, I'm thinking that is nice way to invite you to go away.

I wish you could figure out / remember to replace the copier with WHITE paper (you know the STANDARD color of office paper) when you are done using it. And that I didn't find the paper tray empty on every other trip.

I wish you could respect the fact that the sink is NOT for a holding ground for your plant! It is for hand washing. Furthermore, if the plant never leaves the bathroom sink / counter - one must wonder why it continues to be a necessary item in this workspace.

I wish that you could let go of the passive / aggressive behavior and get off your high horse. Is it really such a chore to say "good morning" or "see you tomorrow"?

I wish you would know that when you "sneak" out for your long lunches / errand running...oops, I mean "meetings" that we are perfectly aware of your absence.

I wish I could wrap my mind around why a trashcan of recycling is offensive to your eyes - but food left uncovered overnight is okay? Paper waiting to be carried to the recycling bin (by magic fairies - I assume) thrown on a chair and left for DAYS in public view is acceptable? The logic escapes me.

What about you? Do you have wishes for your co-workers too? Go ahead...
We'll return to our regularly scheduled "nice-ness" next week.

At Odds With Myself

2010-04-05T20:00:00.003-05:00

Sometimes - we are our own worst enemies.

I'll site my life as an example...

I want to be a responsible environmental consumer. This means lots of recycling. It also means lots of piles of recycling goods that are either waiting to be washed, waiting to dry, waiting to be taken to recycle boxes, or waiting to be sorted. In short - loving the earth = cluttering my kitchen / garage. Paper to take to work (fundraiser / recycling project). Paper to shred. Paper that doesn't count as "paper" at work - but can be taken curbside - I don't even begin to understand this one.

This same problem applies when I have the desire to "just throw it away". It seems wasteful. Just because I'm not loving it / using it - does that automatically mean that it should go to a landfill? And I like to donate - but again, it's not something I drop off often - so it kind of piles up before I make the trip... which does not help with organization.

So as much as I would NOT like to ---when I watch Hoarders - Buried Alive (great show btw) I understand what they mean by "don't just throw it away". Now, sometimes they are pretty close to crazy...but other times, I'm like - can't you just HELP these people find a place where they CAN send their piles of crap that will be USEFUL?

And then there is budgeting. I'm embarrassed to say, that until recently - I didn't pay attention to what I spent on food. *gasp* I know, I know - I need a support group. I just went to the store and bought things - not even things that resembled a "plan"...just food that at some point I thought we would like to eat.

I have learned that this leads to peanut butter with no jelly. Kool-aid with no sugar. Missing ingredients for the most basic meals...it's a source of frustration.

Watching the weekly ads seemed like a lot of hassle. I generally went to one place and did all my shopping - regardless of the digits that would total up. I don't like going multiple places. I don't like totally not knowing where things are in the store. And let's face it - when I'm only going to 1 place, I still can't keep it straight due to their strategic plan of endless rotation to disorient the customers.

But I've started to be inspired by fellow bloggers and our family is practicing what I will refer to as Project Bracing For Impact (preparing for the worst case financial scenario). And I'm starting to keep track of the spending. And I'm trying the "shop the ad's" method of cooking. Oh yeah, I'm also trying to have a "plan" for the meals when I shop - novel idea, I know. Slow but steady, folks.

And you know what I've noticed? 80% of the ads are for food-like-products. Not real food. Not good food. Not food you should be eating more of. But crap-in-a-box. For anyone reading along with Does This Blog Make Me Look Fat? and for The Box Challenge....this is not going to fly. Does eating on a budget and eating healthy have to be working against each other? I mean, when was the last time you saw a sale on oatmeal or wheat germ or whole wheat flour?

It's a process - but why does it seem that when you try to make an improvement in one area - you end up fighting another one? I'm not giving up - I'm just looking for the peaceful answers.

Plus 1, Door Number 2, and 3 Don't Do's

2010-04-02T08:02:00.000-05:00

I went to a wedding recently. It was one of those weddings where I really didn't know anyone - I just got drug along as the plus one. The nice thing about not being emotionally involved - is that you have lots of time to observe.

1st. There are lots of wedding traditions that just put a lot of pressure on the guests. Okay, so there is plenty of pressure - look nice, right gift, RSVP in timely manner. But sometimes there are "extra surprises"

...like "we'd like to take your picture - right as you arrive, coming in from the rain." I don't take many good pictures on days where mother nature isn't pouring on my head - much less on a day like this, for an event that I was drug along to.

Please don't do this to your guests. As if that wasn't enough, I noticed that the photographer was ALSO sneaking shots of us as we casually waited for the festivities to begin. I felt like I should go introduce myself and let them know "I'm the plus one, don't bother pointing here."

We were also asked to fill out a card for the couple and they applied MORE pressure b/c this was the "guest book". I refused, but I can imagine them insisting that you give marital advice or maybe it highlights how you know the couple - which in my case would have been "barely, but thanks for the cake and mints".

2nd Weddings give you the chance to observe lots of religious traditions. Like putting the cloth that a pastor wears around their neck (I'd call it a Lay - but that seems wrong.) ON TOP of the bride / grooms hands when you bless the couple? Is this an old ritual to keep the pastor from catching "common people" germs? Are the seven deadly sins contagious?

Sometimes churches are designed in some fashion that makes you think there are secrets! Like in this one, I swear there were "little people" doors behind the cross on the main "stage". I kept waiting for the little people chorus line to break out...alas, it never happened. But what are the doors for? Do you have to know a secret handshake to get in there? Do they only open them on special occasions? Does it lead to a secret passageway? And if I had explored it after the ceremony what would the punishment be if I were caught?

As a general aside note - the musical selections at weddings may be special for the bride and groom - but I see little point in them. First, I think that public singing is best left for darkly lit rooms or concerts - a wedding is neither. If you love songs - play them at your rehearsal dinner, play them during your reception, play them as people are entering the church and sitting / waiting with the photographer pretending to be the paparazzi....but for heaven sake, stop insisting that everyone listen to a singer that may or may not preform well under pressure while the wedding party tears up and tries to avoid ruining their makeup. Your guests will thank you, trust me.

3rd. As a youth at our church, they let us light the candles for service - it was a big deal. Little did I know, it was trade school for later life - when someone would ask you to be the candle lighter in their wedding. And in this case, practice does NOT make perfect.

Candles are one of those things in weddings that are just begging for Murphey's Law to come into practice. Why do we insist that someone light them in front of the audience? Who needs that kind of pressure? You might as well invite a crowd to watch you apply your eyeliner and mascara in the morning...we only need it to get done, we don't need to watch.

I'm going to start keeping score - of weddings where some kind of "catastrophe" does or doesn't happen with the candles. I'm fairly sure that I can quickly prove - beyond statistical question - that you should avoid candles at all costs.

My final observation is for the guests. Is it really necessary for EVERY SINGLE person under the age of 30 to have their personal video / photos of the ceremony? Either save your money on the photographer and challenge your guest to get good shots OR ask them to put it away. I swear, at several points the bride / groom had 4+ video cameras on them with an additional 20 cameras pointing at them. And this was a pretty small wedding - as weddings go.

I know, I know, it's YOUR day. You can do it anyway you want. But have you seen any really awful wedding ideas / traditions?

Wishing Wednesday

2010-03-31T06:38:00.000-05:00

Week 13:
The one that is full of lengthy explanations and mostly about TV...

I wish that Adult Swim would stop messing with the master volume. I use to be able to sleep with the volume on 15 - now I start the night with 13 and I swear, at 3:00 in the morning - I have to take it down to 9.

I wish that the Mystery Stride Gum commercial would stop playing. You know, the one where the men are riding ostriches and bust through the walls and then the ostrich turkey taps the dude with fierce aggression? First, it brings back the Kool-Aid man fears -with all that busting through walls. Second, an ostrich is the kind of animal that you is pretty mild-mannered. That is until you realize they could peck and stomp you to death without breaking a sweat. Third, tall animals just heighten my "short girl" complex and long necks make me wonder about those tribal rings that stretch necks...you know, like if I did that - could I really be 6 foot tall?

I wish that this commercial would stop playing - the song is addictive, or at least the melody is - but right now, when I'm TRYING to remember it - they lyrics escape me. But I swear this is the kind of thing that will not leave your subconscious - do not watch it...

I wish I knew why there was a plague of acne commercials last weekend - on EVERY channel, on EVERY break. Is it seasonal? Is it a pandemic?

I wish I understood why Family Guy and King of the Hill are appropriate prime time shows when they run on their original channels -yet the same shows required parental warnings when they run on Adult Swim.

How about you? What are you wishing for this week?

Wishing Wednesdays NOT

2010-03-24T07:12:00.000-05:00

Week 12:

The NOT SPOT - a few things that I am NOT wishing for this week...

I do NOT wish for any pork. No more catered meals with pork tainted menus. No more pork recipes.

I do NOT have any desire to bake any cake that involves rolling. I do not care how pretty it looks in the professional picture.

I do NOT wish for any more moments where all spelling skills exit my mind. (When it is so bad that spell check can not help you - you have a problem.)

I do NOT wish for shoes to be either supportive / comfortable OR to be cute. Call me picky - but I want both. Preferably, in a price range that I could not confuse with a car payment.

I do NOT wish for any more news stories of children that have disappeared - only to find out that the ones that are "missing" them are the reason they are gone.

What are you NOT wishing for this week?

Nail Mystery's Revealed

2010-03-21T17:54:00.003-05:00

I have taken great comfort that I am not alone with the mystery of how to make the polish last - you know, longer than a day.

Many suggestions about the fake nails - not so many positive comments about them or the process or the cost - except that they look really nice.

I have had some revelations that I can share.

First, one trick seems to be to choose a questionable color. I painted my fingers iced blue - no base, one coat. It lasted for about 3 days with no chips. This did make me wonder if we have a tendency to paint in thick layers and that makes it more likely to chip - since one coat lasted so long? I mean 3 days is like a world record for me.

Do they reinforce ugly colors more? Not sure - but you have to wonder.

Next, in my preparation for St. Patty's day and with my new hope of ugly color longevity...I choose a glittery lime green. I did a base coat and two coats and a top coat. It lasted for most of the work week. I did have some chips and needed to reapply.

What I did realize about polish in a glittery color - the chips are not nearly as noticeable. They may be there, but the sparkle distracts your eye. After looking at my polish collection - I quickly realized this was not such wonderful news for me - as I tend not to be a glittery polish kind of gal. Maybe I will have to start...

With all this success - I thought I would try again with a dark, mildly sparkly color. Base, 2 coats, and a top coat. This weekend, I was on a baking mission for a fundraiser. This meant some hand washing of dishes. Which, of course, equals disaster. The paint lasted 2 days and was damaged so bad it could not be repair.

For now, I'm back to naked nails. Hope these tips help some...

And almost like magic (or like a cruel joke of temptation) I got a magazine today with an ad for a new polish from Sally Hansen (complete Salon Manicure). It is an all-in-one product that contains base coat, strengthener, growth treatment, color, and top coat. I plan to give it a try should I find a shad that steals my heart. Maybe if I'm only doing one step - reapplication won't be such a hassle? Because I notice that it doesn't make any claim to be long lasting.

I'm beginning to wonder about the idea of merging polish with sharpie markers? In more normal "nail" colors. And of course, this would require the invention of a pretty amazing base coat. Since we want semi-permanence. But if it can be accomplished with hair color...can nail polish really be that difficult?

Holding onto the dream...

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-03-16T19:51:00.004-05:00

Week 11:

I wish St. Patty's Day was as much fun in the "adult world" as it was in college.
I wish someone would invent a washer / dryer unit that automatically shifts the laundry from one to the other - folding at the end would be super great too!
I wish we were NOT only 3 days into Daylight Savings time and that my son was NOT already using the "But Mom, it's still light outside" argument to avoid bedtime.
I wish my son would never get tired of the "Guess Who? I Love You" game. (Guess Where? I love you everywhere. Guess when? I love you now and then.)
I wish there were a "National - Just Like In the Magazines Make Up Day" where it would acceptable / encouraged to wear your make up just like the crazy styles of the models...like this....

Happy St. Pats! What are you wishing for?

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-03-09T23:00:00.001-06:00

Week 10 : So close to spring...I can taste it!

I wish that my palm plant(purchase at greatly reduced rate) would decide that life sounds better than death and begin to be green again.

I wish that the lovely person who refuses to return the much-needed gardening book to the library would find the book, pay the fee, or just simply bring it back.

I wish it wasn't my "secret Monday".

I wish to be healthy enough to get my allergy shot this week - before I have to start back over to build up my resistance.

I wish that Stephanie would feel the love and go ahead and publish Midnight Sun - seriously, Stephanie I PROMISE to purchase the final copy.

What are you wishing for?

Revoking My GIRL Card

2010-03-05T14:56:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure what is wrong with me - but some of the easiest girl things are just beyond me.

For example - I love the look of painted nails. LOVE. Them.

So painting your nails is like - what - a 3 hour process? You have the base, the polish, the 2nd coat polish, the top coat. And allow for time for the impossible painting of the right hand. And allow time for drying - because there is nothing that thrills me more than doing all that work to see that I went to bed too soon and have wrinkled / smudged polish before I've even left the house.

But with all of those steps. With all of that time. It would totally be worth it - if it would just LAST. Like for more than 1 day would be nice. One week would be an absolute dream!

Let me clarify. I have used a variety of products - speed dry, super strength, variety of costs for polish, smoothing base coats, vitamin fortified...it doesn't seem to matter. Additionally, the closest my hands come to "hard labor" or machinery on a daily basis is my pants zipper. Seriously.

Yet time and time again- I have a lovely paint job, waste hours of my life, and can't make it through one stinking day without a chip. It truly amazes / bewilders me when I see ladies with good polish jobs. Much less to see them multiple days in a row - with it lasting. My grandmother almost always had painted nails - and she gardened, she constantly was doing dishes by hand, she was always working on something - and she kept her nails painted.

Is there a secret to this? Are all of these paint jobs on fake nails? (which I have so far avoided for a few reasons - cost, fear of fungus / infection, and lack of time to commit on a weekly basis) Is it better to just skip the multi-steps and go straight for polish? At least then if it chips in a day I've only wasted 30ish minutes.

What is a girl to do?

Seriously in danger of never having adorable nails again...
Regina

I've Been Dumped by the Universe

2010-03-04T07:00:00.001-06:00

Some things have kind of slid by the way, during my month long wouldn't-it-be-fun-to-be-a-human-petri-dish....I will admit.

Laundry has been done on an emergency only basis.

Cooking is a sport I do not participate in.

Eating is mostly optional - unless medications dictates otherwise.

So, it's no surprise that my email has gotten a bit out of control. I've been pretty regular about dumping / sorting the SPAM file - but the "real" mail? Well, if I thought it contained any important detail at all - it was best left for a day when I had BRAIN function.

And so - at first, I didn't notice the silent treatment. Until....

Janet mentioned her message from The Universe - you can sign up for a daily (weekday) message that helps you focus on your greater mission in life - just in case you are like me, and from time to time you find yourself drowning in the daily details...who has time to think long term? I can't even plan dinner menus for a week- clearly I need these messages.

But the Universe has stopped sending me a daily message. Why? Have I ceased to exist? How long since they last acknowledged me? Have I offended? Is this some kind of secret message / hidden meaning? Should I be insulted? Should I sulk? Do you send flowers for this sort of thing? Does Hallmark make a card for this occasion? One must wonder...how do you win back the love of the Universe?

Until then...lacking daily focus and guidance from the stars...wish me luck!

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-03-03T08:33:00.006-06:00

Week 9: Sitting, Waiting, Wishing...

I wish the headache that has been dully throbbing to wildly raging would exit my head permanently.

I wish that until that headache is evicted that the medicines will work enough to access the "mute" button.

I wish that all the weight I have dropped from these weeks of feeling quite horrible will NOT find it's way back to my scale.

I wish that the universe would cool it with rumbling and shifting - enough with the earthquakes.

I wish that all children came to school with the desire to get along and support each others' good / happy feelings instead of being programmed to master "annoying" and testing the limits of "legal" bullying.

(and finally - apparently, I also need to wish that my "add image' button would realize that when I click it - I really MEAN I would like to DO SOMETHING!... the stars will return next week)

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-02-24T09:26:00.002-06:00

Week 8: Still wishing... it's one of those BLUE days.

I wish "week 7" hadn't gotten lost in the chaos of my life.
I wish that babies came to the people who are sitting and wishing and all too prepared to have them.
I wish that words could be said / heard without guilt lingering around afterwards.
I wish that when a friend shares their pain - they would instantly feel the relief from the amount of that burden that I carry with me for them.
I wish that smiles and laughter would win over tears and silence.

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-02-17T00:01:00.000-06:00

Week 6

I wish my best ideas for wishes didn't come seconds after making my wish list.

I wish for good hair days with a reasonable amount of effort.

I wish for clarity.

I wish I was better at meditation.

I wish I could make time go faster and slower simultaneously.

As a bonus wish: Tara, I wish you were still here. It would totally take care of wish #3!

My Life In A Box

2010-02-12T12:34:00.004-06:00

This week, work involved a pretty big event. And gave me reason to reflect on how my work life seems to be overwhelmed with boxes, packing and unpacking. On my last self-evaluation, I listed that boxes were one of my least satisfying aspects of work - sometimes I swear I work for a delivery or moving service. (and that wouldn't be a problem - if it weren't for the fact that I really DON'T- or so they say. I'll let you decide.)

1. Shop for items needed.
2. Pack them in bags.
3. Pack bags in cart.
4. Unload from cart.
5. Load in to car.

At office:
6. Unload materials to pack into participant bags.
7. Fill each bag.
8. Realize that boss has additional suggestions of materials to be included.
9. Pack bags again with these materials.
10. Ugh. Forgot "gifts" to be included.
11. Pack bags a final time.
12. Pack the packed bags into boxes for easier transport.

Table decorations:
13. Unpack previously shopped for materials for decorations.
14. Make flower arrangements.
15. Pack finished arrangements into box for transport.

16. Pack ALL listed boxes into car.
(Also, pack all personal items needed for event / required paperwork / misc supplies needed.)
17. Go to event site to set up - only to find room is being used and set up will not be possible until tomorrow. Grumble, grumble, then give up and go home.

Next day:
18. Unpack car enough to fit child in to transport to school.
19. Repack car to go to event site.
20. Unload car.
21. Set up site / unpack all materials.
22. Repack car with empty boxes (no room for out-of-site storage).
23. Have event.
24. Mid-event, receive (against my will) delivery of MANY huge boxes that I am now in charge of should the intended parties NOT pick them up - for which they were NOT pre-warned.
25. Pass off boxes to unsuspecting participants.
24. Unpack boxes from car.
25. Repack items that are left.
26. Repack items into car.
27. Return to office.
28. Unpack boxes from car.

29. Still left to do - unpack all those boxes.
30. Sort through materials.
31. Repack those that are re-usable.
32. File or dispose those that are event specific.
33. Recycle boxes that are now empty and no longer needed.

Take into account that I have about 8 more events (smaller - but packing is still involved) in the next 20 days and you begin to see why I am a Chick in a Box. (weak reference to Man in A Box song).

Wishing It Was Wednesday

2010-02-11T07:46:00.002-06:00

So, somehow Wednesday blew by me without a moment to sit and wish - what a crime...but with a little blog magic, let's pretend anyway. Maybe Thursday wishes are more potent because they've been simmering a while?

I wish I wasn't a day late.
I wish I could rub up against people (like a cat) and take the best parts of them and add it to myself.
I wish / hope that my big event at work goes off with a hitch (may have something to do with my recent lack of time).
I wish my brain wouldn't work overtime and impose on my dreams.
I wish for a natural and lasting feeling of ease.

Thank You For the Germs

2010-02-06T09:00:00.005-06:00

Tis the time of year for illness to spread. I understand that this is going to happen to the best of us as we are often contagious before we even know that we are carriers.

But in particular, I'd like to thank those that make it possible, that ignore the symptoms and push forward to maintain their daily routine - all the while spreading a little piece of themselves onto you and I - it warms my heart.

To the "perfect attendance" child. Thank you so much for prioritizing your record over the safety of others. I admire the fact that while most people recognize that the flu is contagious for 4-7 days, you manage to return to school in only 1 day all the while letting your classmates know that you have the flu. Thanks so much. I hope we can return the favor- we'll be sneezing on your valentine. Sent with love. XOXOXO-Ah-choo!

To the mother that sends her child to daycare - even though she's pretty sure the child has RSV. Thank you for systematically causing a decline in the infant classroom attendance as all of the children fall victim to your personal germ warfare.

To the line of people waiting for the pharmacy at Wal-Mart. Thank you for choosing to personally come into the store to get your scripts for your contagious conditions. We know you don't feel well, we wish the lines were faster, and that you might consider sending someone else to do your dirty work.

To the designers of Wal-Mart (and all other super store chains with pharmacy inside) - I challenge you to walk by the pharmacy area one time a week for an entire year - after you have contracted every disease known to man - would you please consider a different design on future stores? Perhaps one that contains the sick people to one corner of the store? Or maybe the idea of having an entrance that comes straight to the pharmacy, instead of having to aimlessly wander through the entire store to get there? Or how about a drive through so they can just stay in their own little germ bubbles?

To the children of the "nurse". How did you make it through medical school and yet you fail to understand how to prevent the spread of illness? Just because the school day is done does not mean that your children are no longer contagious. Thanks for letting them run around and play football with all the neighborhood kiddos - shall we all send you all of our medical bills?

Just some things to consider while we wait for the germs to forfeit their attack on our household. We'll do our best to keep it to ourselves - though we may have accidentally spread the infection on to Grandma. It's like the horror movie that never ends without the potential for a sequel.

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-02-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

Week 5: The one where I mostly wish about the dogs.

I wish that my pups would start sleeping through the night again - midnight potty breaks in a sleepy-stupor are no fun!

I wish my pups would get over their insane jealousy of the new dog next door. I can not convince them that he is here to stay.

I wish I could read the pups minds - I just know they have something to tell me (there is something under the couch, this thing on the floor is alive, hello - feed us!).

I wish they could behave at the front door - change that to a wish for a visit from Cesar, who I am sure could fix this problem in about 2 minutes and be mighty charming while doing so.

I wish that people who hurt sweet animals like mine could be faced with punishments that come close to a fraction of the pain they cause.

If it's not too much, I also wish I knew why my blue fish insists on changing colors to match his tank-mates- and more to the point, how exactly does he have this power? Part chameleon?

What are you wishing for this week?

Banana Bread

2010-02-02T06:58:00.000-06:00

I love this banana bread. It's so quick and easy to whip up. A slice is very filling!
I have used bananas that were so past ripe that you would never eat them and you can never tell. Also, I'm not sure how I got this far in life without knowing that you can freeze bananas (after peeling) if they are going to go bad before you can use them. Such an eye-opening discovery for me! Since learning this trick, I have not had one banana go past it's prime in my house! I freeze 3 in a bag so that they will be ready for this recipe. Just defrost in fridge overnight and then use - it won't look pretty, but I assure you the taste is the same.

Here's the recipe with my notes.
Ingredients
3 or 4 ripe bananas, smashed (I find that 3 creates the right amount of moisture)
1/3 cup melted butter (This equals 5 1/3 tbs - I replace 2 1/3 tbs with applesauce)
1 cup sugar (I always reduce to 3/4 cup you won't miss it)
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt (I have forgotten this with no adverse effects)
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour (I have replaced 2 TBS of this with wheat germ)

Method
No need for a mixer for this recipe. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). With a wooden spoon, mix butter into the mashed bananas in a large mixing bowl. Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour last, mix. Pour mixture into a buttered 4x8 inch loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour. Cool on a rack. Remove from pan and slice to serve.

If I could catch up with how quickly we eat these - I would like to get several in the freezer for summer months when I don't want to be baking.

This recipe has been linked to:
Tuesday at the Table
Tasty Tuesdays

Embrace the Blah!

2010-01-31T08:30:00.000-06:00

My recent detox treatment has reminded me of an important fact.

I really need to focus on relaxing - or as I say to myself in a moment of rage, just chill the F*@#% out! (which is not a very relaxing message to send to yourself - note to self) This is not a news flash for me- I did ask for (and receive) a Zen meditation CD for Christmas- which I completely LOVE.

My blood pressure has been tending to be run on the edge of "acceptable". There is a family history of some blood pressure concerns. I want to be proactive.

I believe that I am wired (or I've just fallen into the habit) to run on "high" to easily flip into "overdrive" - also known as emotional-rage mode. Maybe they call that "Type A". Things bother me. It's hard to get over it / let it go.

When I was scheduling my reflexology raindrop therapy treatment, my lady told me that you really CAN function after the treatment - but you have to push yourself out of your relaxed state of mind in order to do things like drive, cook, work- so she discourages it. She encouraged me to have the treatment done when I had a few days to really take it easy - and embrace the blah.

I found myself lingering in that "blah" into the week. I let things roll off my back that normally could have thrown me into emotional turmoil. Now, I know that this was likely NOT the effect of the treatment when we've passed 48 hours- this was a change in me and how I was approaching life.

I'm trying to embrace the blah more. I'm trying to chill out. I'm trying to care, but not stress out about things that are out of my control. I'm trying to do my best, but not put unreasonable demands on myself. It's a process and I have no delusions that perfection will be obtained. Balance is tricky. Do you have any tips for things you do to remind yourself to chill out / not take life so seriously?

Here's to a mild-er version of me!

A Week In Review - Of Spam

2010-01-28T17:07:00.004-06:00

In one of my Wishing Wednesday's, I suggested that spam should be a federal offense. Maybe this will help you understand why... I tracked my spam account for 1 week (about 500+ messages) and it's created much thought...

Who are these people? Are they getting paid to attack my email? One spammer - igarden4fun- seems to be offering me MANY varieties of spam (dates, credit reports, loan offers, jobs from home). Dude, all I can say is I hope you are getting paid well because the very fact that I RECOGNIZE your address in the Spam Box is really pretty sad.

How are they finding me? It's not like I've put my email on a billboard. Are we forced to close out accounts and start new ones to run away from these spammers? For a while I diligently clicked on the "unsubscribe" button - I don't know that it helped at all. Now I just delete.

What is SPAM anyway? I know it's a meat(ish) substance in a can - and who REALLY knows beyond that...but what is computer SPAM? Special Pain-in-the Ass Message? Special Persuasion Aimed at Morons? Single Procreating Alien Monsters? I digress.

I've tried to consider "how could I make spam more fun"? Could you use it as a fortune cookie / horoscope? Could you make career moves based on the traffic of spam? Are there secret messages in spam? (Think "You've Won Lotto in UK" = an unexpected bill will be coming your way.)

If you have any advice on how to avoid these bloodsuckers in the future - please let me know. Until then, let's look at what I've accumulated in a weeks time. It's pretty exciting stuff!

I have many opportunities to be better insured - 29 Auto, 16 Health, 11 Life, 8 Home and 3 for anything else. I can also renew my car warranty with 3 offers.

I could consider a career change - 9 to go to school, 16 Dental, 25 Teaching, 9 Pharmacy Techs, 5 Social Work, 11 Nursing and 7 Professional Painters. I have 15 offers for financial aid to support this career change and 2 offers to just give me a loan for whatever I might want.

But I don't think I need to bother with schooling since I already have 9 job offers - one is for $120,000 a year and is part time from home! Or I could just write poetry - I have 21 people begging me to publish and I have 7 book offers and 3 offers to proofread poetry. And if none of that works out - I have 3 Home Business offers, and 23 from Sex (oops - it's really Six) Sigma - it just sounds porn-ish.

What will I do with all my money from the new job? I can buy an Ab Circle, use it on 7 offers for drugs without prescriptions, buy ink online, remove my dark circles, get a magic jack, go on a Disney vacation, or buy some quality coffee that they will Auto-Ship to me for the rest of my life.

Money is definitely in my future- 2 of my next of kin are trying to reach me regarding an inheritance, 3 notices about a payment, I've won 5 cash awards / lotteries, I'm going to be credited for 1 ATM Payment, I'm expecting 2 instant payments, Western Union has 2 transactions for me waiting to be picked up, I'm eligible for GI Benefits (regardless of not enlisting in any branch of the military) and I have 1 package that will be delivered to me as soon as they can update my address (which hasn't changed in over a decade). I also have an email alert and an important notice from anonymous senders - I'm sure they also have money for me.

I am a very important person - the United Nations and FBI are both trying to contact me urgently.

Proof that spam is seasonal - 6 offers to help with Tax Debt and 1 about Valentines Day.

I'm worried about my health- 2 offers to buy health products online "discreetly", 9 offers for a diabetic meter, 1 notice about heartburn, 11 alerts about birth control side effects, 16 alerts about Paxil, 4 about Reglan, 1 about Extenze and 3 warnings about anti-depressant use. In the event that all this worry leads to hair loss - I have 11 offers to help me with that. And Smart Smoker will help me lower my nicotine contact - uhm, thanks I never started and I think that real "smart smokers" just quit.

I should consider remodeling my house - given the 10 low rate, pre-approved offers that I've received. And if that doesn't work out so well - I have 6 offers for Time Shares. And I'll be able to verify my good-credit rating for all those loans with my 4 credit report offers.

In the event that I decide that married life is not for me (just kidding Hubby) I have 28 offers from EHarmony to help me back into the dating game. However, I don't think I'd have to stoop to surveys since itouchmyself3 is "hot 4U" , a Brazilian beauty (twice)is new in my area and looking for a date, and Amjad baig believes in love, Lady GiLuvzU and buggy boo both want a date, and David Klottery has a "partnership proposal" for me, while Dr. Antar Ekli is offering mutual benefits. If none of that works, I have offers from Find & F*** and also from F***Book - I'm not kidding.

After all that dating, I'll likely be tired - but don't worry. It won't slow me down because I have 12 offers for a power chair- which I am assured I qualify for with no out of pocket payment. And in my old age I can be prepared if I act now on one of the 8 offers for senior living.

While I'm sitting around, I can enjoy any one of my 14 offers for satellite TV service - HD for the Super Bowl and a lower price than cable - and they will help me to recover from my sub-quality life without DVR.

But I think my favorites are the ones with a "personal touch". Kelly at Facebook has sent me 4 messages. Mr. Li Chin Wu, Mr. Mark Jones, Mrs. Lily Goody, Robert Zoellick, Rev james Morgan, and Dave Agot all need responses from me. By all means if you know any of these people - please tell them that I am much TOO busy to respond to their requests.

And this is JUST my private account. I could start a fan club with the number of foreign emails (I mean - not in English) that I've been receiving at my work address. Apparently I am very popular in the foreign countries.

The funny thing is, for a few hours before writing this - it was like all the spammers took a vacation. My Spam Box remained empty for multiple hours - it hadn't happend all week - it's like they knew they were about to be outed!

Here's hoping your week is SPAM free and that maybe my inbox brought you a smile!

Wishing Wednesday

2010-01-26T19:19:00.001-06:00

Wishing you A Happy Wednesday- Week 4:

I previously wished for a time remote to re-do moments in life - now I would like to use that remote to eat "reasonable portions" enough times to fulfill my cravings - with no additional calories. Okay?
I wish that I still had "school lunch"
I wish that when bulbs finally bloom -they would look as perfect as the tag pictured them....where they never droop or fall over.
I wish that chocolate was a vegetable.
I wish for Big Love to get started already!

Please add your own wishes in the comments or link to your own "home".

That VooDoo That You Do

2010-01-22T19:31:00.004-06:00

I have a reflexologist. (spell check denies this as a real word - get over it) I was introduced to the idea of reflexology (which is a word recognized by spell check) at a training about stress management. I thought it was a load of crap. But it looked like a nice self-pampering thing to do. So I vowed to give it a try and made an appointment with what I now know to be one of the most wonderful and intelligent ladies around.

The week that my appointment was happening, I started to have some back pain. It was bad enough that I considered going to a chiropractor - which is always a source of dread. (I really do not like them popping my neck with the same motion that I've seen BREAK necks in thousands of movies.) I decided that this would be a real test - I had just planned to go to this appointment as a relaxation technique, but now I'd have a real physical complaint.

I loaded up my body pain and I walked a few blocks to my appointment. We started chatting, she started her thing and within a few minutes she had made me blush by the amount of information she was telling ME about MY body. She found the irritation in my back. She knew that I was ovulating. She had comments about my bowels. She could tell that I had asthma and allergies. And I had shared NONE of these details. About 5 minutes into the 30 minute treatment I was making a mental note that she was pure genius and that it wasn't a load of crap and that I needed to come back next week.

I departed and began walking back to work. I was thrilled with the entire process. It was kind of weird - the lady is very naturalistic, organic, homeopathic remedies, etc- so it's just all a bit off the beaten path. And just as I was about to laugh at myself for falling under her spell - my whole back cracked. Like from the bottom to the top of my spine. It didn't hurt. But I did kind of freeze mid-step. I was pretty sure that I'd just become paralyzed and this next step was going to find my face meeting the sidewalk - or at the very least, there was going to be some pain involved. But no. No pain. That previous tension - totally gone.

When I went back to see her (which of course, I had to) - I told her the story and she laughed and said that when our bodies are functioning the proper way - they should self adjust and return to their natural positions. Tension, strain, stiffness and stress keep us bunched up and create our cramped body positions. I ditched the idea of a 30 minute treatment and decided that there was NO reason to mess around with anything less than an hour and quickly promoted myself to the full hour treatment on a semi-regular basis.

I have seen her for respritory issues, a sinus infection that I couldn't shake with two doses of meds and the threat of a cat scan, bladder infections, and of course some stress. With a full hour she also does some head work and an ear massage that would make anyone believe that dogs have got the right idea! At a recent visit, I mentioned that my whole system seemed to be set on "irritated". My emotioanl being, my skin, my body rhythm, my digestion - everything was just "off". I declared that I needed a total body detox, to which she replied, "I do that".

I quickly signed up for what I was told would be a two hour raindrop therapy treatment. And this weekend, I finally got to experience it. The very fact that she wouldn't let you drive yourself should have been a clue about what I was going to experience - oh yes, and the fact that she insisted that you have a "couple of days to rest / recover".

To sum it up - this was a combintation of a full body massaage, a reflexology treatment, a full body exfoliation, the raindrop therapy - which is made up of 12 essentail oils dropped over your back that pull toxins out of your spine, ending with several minutes of being packed in with hot towels. First, I don't know that I've been silent for that long in a LONG time - at least with someone else in the same room as me. Second, at some point - I checked out of consious land and instead visited a place where my mind wandered from thought to thought and occassionaly I'd become aware - and think "what the heck are you THINKING lady?" and the I'd go back to the crazy, random thoughts....one of which involved hearing (litterally HEARING) a discovery show about sea anemonie being cleaned by some particular ocean current -don't ask me, I wasn't really there. At the end, I was very lightheaded - in a kind of mildly drunk way - and really apathetic - in that super "chill out dude" kind of way.

I was escorted to the car - otherwise I may have just drifted into outer space (I really felt like I could have). And while I did go home and eat dinner - I only lasted about 1.5 hours before I called it a night and went to bed - and proceeded to sleep for 13.5 hours! And I woke still feeling very fuzzy / cozy headed and enjoyed my day ion a very lazy kind of way - and took a nap. Even today (48+ hours after), I'm not feeling quite as intense as is usual for me - but I'm totally okay with it.

The bottom line is. If you are reading this - and it sounds pretty insane (and I haven't even mentioned the knocking on your own chest 3 times to stimulate your immune system) - and you think that I'm pretty close to checking into the funny farm. I don't care. I think that this is one of the few times that I can honestly close my eyes and have total faith in the process. And if it's all slide of the hand trickery - so be it. What I do know is how I feel when I leave this lady's "office" and no medical doctor, no personal retreat, no spa pampering has ever come close to matching it. Break out your magic wands, your pixie dust, and your essential oils - they are all welcome in my world.

And for the record - this takes care of goal number #7.

One Thing Leads to Another

2010-01-21T07:00:00.001-06:00

A few days ago (like around Jan 1)...I said I was going to try to work 10 minutes a day tackling some little de-clutter task that needs my attention. It hasn't taken long to realize why those tasks don't get done. Because by the time you cook the dinner, do the dishes, help with the homework, attend to the dogs, do / fold / and put away the laundry...well it just keeps going...and going. And at the end, there's not much left.

But here and there I have had some success - it's just lead to other problems.
Example #1. I was cleaning out my mail / crap holder - you know, one of those things that is meant to help avoid clutter - until you stuff it so full that it's holding the equivalent of an entire filing cabinet. And you need none of it now, but all of it at some point? So it lives there....in it's "temporary" home.

So I was sorting through these papers. Giving my shredder a workout. And wondering where on earth this is all going to "live" when I don't put it back into this holder. And I touched the wall. The wall in my kitchen, by my desk, in my house - where I've lived for a number of years. And the wall is HOT. I mean like it measures around 106 degress - hot. Crazy right?

Phone calls later - paranoia growing, I'm pretty sure I've got an electrical problem. And I'm pretty sure this is going to involve the trauma of holes in walls, large bills, and home owner nightmares. Not to mention, I'm feeling pretty guilty about the thought of leaving the puppies at home by themselves - what if the place burst into flames? A quick jog in my memory and I feel a little better - b/c isn't it 451 degress that paper burns (thank you Ray Bradbury) - so surely there will be no fire with a mere 106 degrees.

Well, much worry and a short visit from a lovely contracted electrician who came to my rescue for a small price - it's not an electrical issue. It's a stupid-owner issue. Apparently, it's likely been like this forever - b/c it has to do with the venting of the hot water heater and furnace. No danger, nothing to fix, nothing is wrong.

Do you see how the Universe tries to derail me? I clean a little pile of papers and end up with fears of flames! It doesn't seem fair, does it? What would happen if I actually cleaned out a closet? I don't know that I should risk such dangers...

Example #2. And then I went downstairs. After standing by the wall of flames - it didn't take long to realize there was a serious draft from the fireplace. Really cold. I'm kind of a push button fire-place kind of gal. So I've never really used this for a real fire. Messy, stinky, and a bit frightening to openly allow flames to live in your house...maybe that's just me. Anyway, I peek in there to see what's going on - and quickly realize I don't know WHAT it SHOULD look like. Really, where is the homeowners 101 class?

Much worry, a few phone calls, 378 additional examinations of the fireplace (never with me having ANY more clue about WHAT I was looking for) and a visit from a very nice chimney sweeper dude who didn't charge me an amount that would make me cry....the problem is pretty simple. There's a whole - you know, it's a chimney - and there's NOTHING blocking the air in there. So basically, I've been heating the world for the birds or any other wildlife that cared to hang out near my chimney top. And maybe I've been cooling it in the summer. For YEARS!

A quick slice of some insulation and the problem is solved. I'm expecting a sympathy card from the gas company within a few months - they will likely think we've stopped heating the house. Or at least I hope that we see that much progress on the bill.

There are certainly joys to home ownership - but the list of fixes and projects and improvements never ends. What is the craziest thing you've learned as a home owner?

Wishing Wednesdays

2010-01-20T09:55:00.006-06:00

Week 3 : Sending out those Wishes- Please play along.

I wish exercise was FUN.
I wish I was on a beach - where exercise would be fun.
I wish short work weeks didn't have a way of including enough work to equal 5 full days.
I wish there was a friend finding service -think singles ads without all the mushy stuff.
I wish hot showers were good for your winter skin.
I wish the world was a safer place and that peace would infect each and every corner.

Don't Go To The Light!

2010-01-16T20:15:00.001-06:00

I was enjoying date night with the hubby when I came to a horrifying discovery.

McDonald's - home of the golden arches, dollar menu, indoor play land, discount(ish) gourmet(ish) coffee, french fries that haunt my dreams, and fancy (still poison to the body) burgers - has added ANOTHER selling technique to it's "you'll love it" tool belt. There is a SPOTLIGHT.

As if your children could not already smell Ronald from a mile away.

As if you were ever unable to spot the golden arches towering about the buildings.

As if you were ever in danger from NOT being able to find the land of heart attacks served on a bun.

Now, there is a spotlight - a fry signal - to lure you in. And a two lane drive through to service your immediate needs.

Ronald, I'm not lovin' it. Not even a little bit. And I can only pray that you had the decency to use an LCD bulb while you're wasting our electrical resources.

Wishing on Wednesday

2010-01-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

Week 2 : Please join in the fun of turning our thoughts into things and our wishes into well-here-it-is! If you do your own wish list please refer back to this one. Or leave your wish on a comment below - free of charge!

I wish my spell check would just surrender to the idea that (ish) IS a word.
I wish spam was a federal offense.
I wish that we were not having such a bad winter that 32 is considered a heat wave.
I wish I had a time-remote control for "do overs".
I wish difficult people were plagued with hiccups.

Little Smokies, Big Yum!

2010-01-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

These little tasties are perfect for snacking, football feasts, or the perfect side to a bowl of soup for dinner. Beware, many times they don't make it to the table. If you are making for a group of people (larger than 4) see recipe adjustments at the bottom.

Little Smokies in A Blanket
You will need:

1 package of little smokies (since we [I] don't eat pork we [I] always use the all beef variety)
1 can buttermilk biscuits (search for trans fat free)
1 small block pepper-jack cheese

Line a cookie sheet with foil - trust me - they are going to be ooey gooey yum, just not fun to clean up after.

Open your can of biscuits and cut each one in half. (So a can of 10 biscuits makes 20 rolls)

Slice pepper-jack cheese into thin slices- about as thin as a slice of wrapped cheese and cut it in half length wise so that you get 2 square (ish) shapes from each rectangle slice.

Place one square of cheese and one smokie on each biscuit half.

Squeeze the biscuit dough around the cheese and smokie so that it wraps around them and press the seam together well. Place on foil lined cookie sheet seam side down.

Bake 8-10 minutes on 450 degrees.

If you need to keep these warm (like they have a chance of surviving long enough to cool off) put them in a crock pot on low.

If you are making for a larger crowd - read your label on little smokies pack to see how many links are in the pack. Buy enough biscuit cans to equal 1/2 of that number. One 8 oz block is still plenty of cheese.

I use to think these were evil-full of calories. But the biscuits are 3 for 110. The cheese is about 50 calories due to the small amount. The smokies vary, but servings are around 6-8 for 150 (ish) calories. So you can have 6 of these little lovelies for around 310 calories - not bad! (Assuming you can stop at just 6!)

A Lesson In Patients

2010-01-08T13:20:00.001-06:00

From time to time (like all the time) I can be a little inpatient.

I'm an inpatient gardener...I spent months cursing my elephant ears for refusing to grow. I kept watering and thinking hello, it's wake up time. You are wasting days - sitting there, doing nothing, showing no progress of growth - I don't even know where you are...I might plant something on top of you. You know, something that shows signs of LIFE? They grew. Eventually, but I reminded them often that playing hard to get didn't make them any friends.

I planned and calculated with great passion to ensure I would have my amaryllis and hyacinth in bloom for Christmas and planted them promptly - have I yet seen flowers? No. I've threatened (lovingly) to throw them out in the snow if they don't want to keep up their end of the deal. I provide warmth, water, and regular turning - you GROW. Seems simple enough to me?

Did you ever notice how time is funny? Like when you are about to run out of shampoo / toothpaste - you know it's getting low. You know you need to buy more. So you do. And then the stuff seems to keep going......and going.....and you are thinking every day - just one more day...but it keeps going....until you are finally thinking - Dude, if I have to use two whole handfuls of shampoo today to finish this up; it just needs to END already. And then more days pass. And then it's gone - and you are surprised.

That is just like my relationship with the package delivery dudes / mailman. Here is how it goes...

Day 1. Really want item.

Day 2. Shop and shop and shop and find item.

Day 3. Place order and dream of the happiness that is coming to me.

Day 4+ weekend. Immediately get excited and can't wait for it to get here.
Obsession fills my brain. (I always forget to count "business days")

Day 5. Dying of anticipation - and still no shipping confirmation.

Day 6. Shipping confirmation - but no progress is track-able.

Day 7. Going to explode with the desire to have it in my hands - it just left the factory in Iceland.

Day 8. Rush home from work. Feel like I've been stood up from prom when porch is empty.

Day 9. No package - typical, a$$h%les, that's just like them.

Day 10, 11, 12 + a weekend- I don't want to talk about it.

Day 15. Complete amnesia that I ever wanted / ordered the item.

Day 16. It arrives. Great joy fills my soul and I'm surprised that it was such fast service.

Every. Time.

So right now, I'm ready to jump into the fitness goals of the year. Sadly, the best prices and deals I have found are all online. I'd gladly trudge through the snow, in the flesh freezing temps to have any of these products in my hand RIGHT NOW. But I'll have to wait. Obsession is filling my brain...let the countdown begin. My heart literally skips a beat when I hear the truck come down my street...and I just hit "confirm order"...will I never learn?

Confessing About the Tree

2010-01-06T15:22:00.001-06:00

The question of the day is how long do you leave all the decorations up?

I generally try to take the tree and Christmas specific decor down by the weekend AFTER New Years Day. That seems like the right time to get over it and get on with new things. However, more "seasonal" decorations can stay out of their storage prisons until the snow melts or I start wishing it would.

However, in the spirit of confessing...there was a year - where I think we were in a month that started with M? Maybe it was March, maybe it was May - I honestly can't remember, so let's pretend it was March! I did have the decorations off of the tree and packed away. And I too considered the idea of a year round tree. ( In my defense my tree is one of those slender decorative trees that are log-cabin in style - and some people DO use them year round. ) I was kind of proud that I finally got it done - until I noticed a countdown to Christmas item still out in August. Oh well, I can't be perfect.

This year I am vowing to do MUCH better.

Don't forget about Wild Wishing Wednesdays - leave your wish below...

Wild Wishing Wednesdays!

2010-01-06T09:00:00.000-06:00

I'm thinking of those ideas - where thoughts become things, where the words we use become the reality we live, where we can have it any way we want it (no, I don't mean Burger King).

And I think I'd like to invite you all to join into this tradition of sharing your wish. If you could have whatever you wanted - what would you change? Big, little, serious, or silly. All wishes welcome!

Here are my wishes this week...

I wish my pups could coordinate their bladders.
I wish I had a non-judgmental, organizing queen friend that enjoyed a challenge and wanted to push me through the chore.
I wish for more followers.
I wish for success in letting go of things that I can not control (weather, people in power)
I wish I would get back on schedule - bedtime without King of the Hill just isn't right.
I wish I could recreate Chipotle burritos in my own kitchen.
Right now, I'm wishing for a blackberry phone.

How about your wishes? Let's see how many we can "plant" this week...

I Thought You Were Sleeping...

2010-01-05T17:34:00.000-06:00

For those of you that don't know me - I want to believe that I am not the kind of person that would ignore someone in need. I have this coworker who's been having a bad time - some health complaints, some personal dramas, some work stress - and she's kind of falling off the truck and about to get run over.

Her work stress has led to disorganization - which causes errors - which causes more work stress.

Her personal dramas have led to work disturbances - collector phone calls, needy/ nonsense/ demands from family members which causes more stress and makes her further behind on work.

Her health issues - well, if you have ever had long-term non-specific health complaints - you feel like poop, you don't give a flying monkey-butt, and it's hard to do good work...you see where this is going....yes, more work stress. It has also lead to emotional and physical exhaustion - and a new habit of sometimes nodding off in the middle of the work day.

I sit closer to this coworker than anyone else. I have ears like a hawk. I may be the only one aware of what is happening - but from time to time, I hear snoring. Where, I ask, is this kind of situation addressed in the employee handbook? It would seem that good co-worker ettiqute would demand that you leave them be and - should a supervisor approach - make such a ruckus that they are forced to wake up before being caught. Yes?

And what if it happens a lot? Even when you know this employee is really mucking up the status of their continued-happy-much-needed- employment? And what if you add, on top of all of that - the fact that you are convinced that that co-worker has become a full-raging facebook ADDICT? And maybe this habit is also to blame for their exhaustion, falling behind on work, etc?

Well, I've tried to ignore the situation. I'm trying to hear a little less. Today, I was busy working - not at break neck speed, but working. And I became aware of the deep SILENCE that was settling over the office. No rustling papers. No clicking keyboard noises. No mouse scrolling. No calculator punching. (I told you I have ears like a hawk.) Nothing - not even snoring. So I got up to see if I had somehow missed the fact that everyone had left the office but me (some co-workers are very good at sneaking out) - and saw enough to confirm that the co-worker was still in the cubical. So what was I to think? Yes, I thought she was sleeping.

Time passes - I take phone calls. I make phone calls. I answer email. I finish report. I gather items to take to main office. As I am walking out, I run into the boss. I do not divert my mission, but figure that I can HONESTLY say - it was out of my hands if someone is held accountable for their actions.

When I return to the office - I hear the employee talking to the boss, who says, "Regina, will you come over here and check on her every once in a while? It appears she passed out at her desk."

Yes, punch me in the gut, I feel like a total A$$! Please tell me - you might have done the same?

Potential Addictions & Other Dangerous $$ Pits

2010-01-04T20:59:00.000-06:00

There are some things in life that I just can not seem to fulfill. It's a thirst that can not be quenched. It's a need for something better and more satisfying.

I was watching a program on hoarding last night - and it did help me to feel much better about myself. Because I saw these people hoarding LOTS of things - it seemed ANYTHING. And I only have a few -so if there's a line, I'm certain I haven't crossed it. I hope that I am not alone...

1. Body lotions and sprays.
Can you ever have enough of these things? There's the dry weather variety, the smells good variety, the works good variety, the self-tanning, the firming, the cellulose destroying...and then all the various flavors? Not to mention the buy ## get for a better price, or get one free tactic...see how they get you? Pure evil.

2. Fine chocolates.
I know they are meant to be eaten a few at a time. Truly savoring each and every melting bite. (I'll wait a moment while you go get your own fix.) I do abide by the fine chocolate rules and etiquette. However, I like to buy in bulk. I think it is no accident that the "seasonal" flavors are the best.

3. Nail polish and pedicure supplies.
I am much better at BUYING these than at USING them. But I can never quite surrender the quest for the perfect dark chocolate brown, nor the perfectly nude yet subtly there shade of pink. Foot lotions, hand age fighting lotions, foot scrubs, foot masks. Oh the joy.

4. Throw blankets.
Different seasons, different furniture, varying weights, varying textures...

5. Yarn and some other craft supplies.
The problem again, being so much variety in texture, weight, size, material, and shade. And so many sales. And so many potential projects. I really think I could love a cricut...but I know the danger that lies within - so many future shopping trips for the shapes, letters, numbers, varying fonts and sizes - please, just take my wallet.

6. Paper.
This could go under craft supplies - but really, if I took inventory, it would deserve it's own place on the list. Origami paper, beautiful journals, little notebooks, giant notebooks, notepads, scrapbook papers with patterns, card stock. Oh, I love paper. *sigh*

7. Water flavor packets and tea flavors.
In my quest to fend off the soda addiction, I have developed a serious relationship with this section of the grocery store. The last time I was there - they had MISPLACED my favorite energy packet. When I found it (hidden behind the crappy varieties) I bought the whole display case. Seriously. I can't take that kind of risk. But were it so simple that I only loved this one flavor- you see, once upon a time I did not know the wonder that was contained in this particular flavor box - so now, I make the habit of picking up a new one (or two) from time to time. I just keep the dream alive of finding another treasure...I keep telling myself it's for a good cause.

So if you feel like confessing your own potential addictions - feel free to join the party. I won't judge!

Hitting the Pavement of the New Year

2010-01-03T09:49:00.000-06:00

Last year, as I was showering (all good ideas can either be traced back to 3am or the shower in my opinion) I was feeling a bit overwhelmed. I swear there are little gremlins in my house that are forever leaving things, adding to the piles, dirtying the clothes, stacking the dishes, etc. My office space also has a very busy look - part of this because I am a very visual person (not visual as in "oh doesn't that look nice" but visual as in if you can't see it, it doesn't really exist) and it is also partially due to the fact that my job takes a lot of stuff. I live in and out of boxes. I pack the boxes, pack my car, unpack my car, unpack the boxes, set up the room, have event, pack the boxes, pack my car, clean the room, return to office unpack the car, unpack the boxes and it all begins again. Wow, just saying it makes me tired!

Anyway, back to the shower - there was a plastic bottle that had been empty there for a few days - who's counting it could have been weeks. And the brilliant idea came to me - I need to stop trying to do EVERYTHING (which always fails and makes me feel more like doing nothing) - and just start doing SOMETHING. And if the only "extra credit" I got for the day was getting that plastic bottle out of my shower and into the recycling - then at least I'd be that much closer to "together". And that became my resolution - to do one small thing everyday to make the situation better.

I really didn't keep score - but overall, I did see more of that "just do it now" attitude develop. I also let others "do more" by encouraging my son to do a few simple jobs everyday- there is a chart involved - it hasn't gone so super, mostly due to my lack of "following up". So I'm considering adding money to the mix - I know, I have mixed feelings about payment for chores - it's part of your job as a family member to help take care of things. But I think a minimal amount of money won't be too bad - and we always have the deal where if you want money you are welcome to do some odd jobs to earn it. So while I can not say that the project was a 100% success; I'm sure that my small attacks didn't hurt my house / office situation.

I have already committed to some changes on Does This Blog Make Me Look Fat? Which, you should totally visit - if you haven't already. But since this is about all the other things "Me". I've decided to try to set 10 minutes each day (both at work and at home) to tackle some non-daily routine. Prepare to hear many times that all this included was sorting / deleting / shredding the mail. This seems to be a serious source of trouble for my counter tops. But each day I'll do something to get my Sh%$ together. I plan on encouraging (read as: forcing) my son to join me in this challenge. And on being a more mindful TV / video game police for myself and for the family- more on that later.

I realize that my goal for 2010 isn't going to win the noble prize - but isn't that part of the reason that most resolutions fail? They are unreasonable? It's not too late, you know? If you've over-committed yourself with a lofty resolution...let's face it, no one gets started until the world returns to "normal mode" after the holiday - so there 's still time to jump on the simple yet effective train. Small or big - all goals get you further up the mountain. What are you changing for 2010?

New Moon Thoughts in the Early Hours of Twilight

2009-12-31T09:32:00.000-06:00

So I know that I am WAY LATE in sharing my opinion to the world, but good things /good company are worth the wait. AND - most of these ideas came to me around 3 in the morning - so if it's perplexing enough in my mind to disturb sleep, it's good enough to share with you (and thanks for being here so I have an outlet).

The list of perplexing things that I will have to go back and re-read...

1. I do not think that in the book Jacob left Edward with the impression that Bella was dead ON PURPOSE - this makes him seem like a cold hearted, jerk. Maybe he didn't KNOW that Edward would proceed onto plan "suicide" but still - the movie made it seem like he KNEW who he was talking to, so those paying attention should have been throwing popcorn at the screen.

2. I do not remember the heart attack being linked to a close encounter with Victoria - I will admit that in book 2, my main concern was either getting Edward back or developing the love interest with Jacob -so it is completely possibly that these facts escaped my eyes. And I realize that linking them together built drama and helped to close some gaps in the movie.

3. Did the book really come so close to "killing" Edward? (They grab his head - leading to Bell's cries "no, no, please NO"- btw, great dialog!) Maybe I just couldn't fathom a world without Edward - but killing him (or coming close) makes NO sense - they had already said his talents were too much to waste, he didn't make a scene, and yes - Bella knew "the secrets" BUT, if they were going to have to OFF her anyway (which obviously they would) they could torture Edward by doing her first. Right? AND, if they could see all of Edwards memories - wouldn't they already see how much she loved him? But again, maybe this is just editing / movie making technique - or maybe I'm wrong about the details.

General thoughts that I can't shake...
1. I'm curious about what happened to Stephanie Meyer in regards to age. Did you get brushed off by a BF that went to college before you? Are you married to a super old dude? Seriously, what is with the obsession with big age gaps? Bella and Edward, Jacob and little bambino eventually, I think there's someone else from the Werewolf pack that is imprinted with a young one - names escape me. And if you step out of Twilight and into Host - there is the same thing there with younger bodies holding the older souls making the difference in age a "non-issue".

2. Knowing that this book is targeted at young readers - I'm having that moment of parental reflection- what are we REALLY saying about love here? Apparently unless you are unable to function, shut down your social life completely, and have raging nightmares and a lack of desire to live - you really didn't love the dude. ? And how much do girls NOT need to have the idea that if you just cared a little more - he'd eventually come back and all would be well. If we referred to our "He's Just Not That Into You" handbook - Bella, would definitely be told to MOVE ON, let go, and get on with that little thing called life - and possibly, look into a prescription medication.

3. Bella has some serious personal space issues - like apparently, she doesn't think people need any. Do you often talk to people that you know would like to jump your bones with your bodies like 3 inches apart from one another? (Unless you are playing mind games) I know I read a blog where someone suggested that Edward becomes jealous and stalker-like. But seriously, it's kind of Bella that goes into Edward-cult mode. She has the one track mind, she isolates herself from others, she can't even pay attention in class when he's nearby. Obsessed much?

Overall, I liked the movie and still love the books. There is something hypnotic about reading them and clearly she is onto some key elements that pull us all in - I'm just questioning if it is all the dysfunctional stuff that makes us love it. But I'll be there for the next one - eating it all up and taking time to consider it later...

On a very funny note. Post show, I was gifted a very appropriate parting-favor.

I am greatly amused that such a book exists! Does this mean that "He's Just Not That Into You" has tricked down to popularity with the young readers? Maybe there is hope to put all this Bella/Edward love into perspective after all. (Thanks Janet!)

Why Tom Is A Dream Guy

2009-12-29T22:00:00.000-06:00

(A.K.A. Lessons for any man in hopes of becoming Mr. Perfect for some lady)

1. Tom is very clear.
2. Tom is very reliable.
3. Tom is always willing to go out with you - regardless of the shopping mission.
4. Tom is very aware of his tone.
5. When you f' it all up - Tom adapts.
6. Tom understands the importance of timely arrival.
7. Tom is not distracted by sporting events nor does he need a remote.
8. Tom can not be tempted by the fruit of another.
9. Tom is always available.
10. Tom is always right, but doesn't have to point it out.

And in case you are wondering - I'm speaking of "Tom" the Tom Tom GPS.
If only I could find one of these to keep me on track in my life as well as it does in my travels!
Now that would be a dream!

In the Land of Dips

2009-12-28T22:45:00.000-06:00

Below are two dips I took for a spin over this holiday feasting season... both were met with rave reviews and are so easy it will be our little secret.

Spinach Dip

1 8 oz block cream cheese (I used low fat)
1 can Rotel
1 package frozen spinach

Thaw spinach and then squeeze out liquid. Throw all ingredients into crock pot and let melt (I did this about 30ish minutes before munching time). Eat with tortilla chips or baked lays. Yum. (recipe origin unknown - but greatly appreciated)

Crab Dip

1 8 oz block cream cheese (again lower fat option used)
1/2 can Rotel
1 small can crab (6 oz) drain liquid

The original recipe suggested to mix ingredients and eat cold. It was fair to good this way. However- it greatly increased in potential when heated up! So I'm strongly suggesting throwing all ingredients into your crock pot and enjoying with your favorite crackers. (recipe from a live local TV show - adapted by yours truly)

Both would make lovely, easy, and WARM additions to your New Years or Football snacking engagements! Enjoy.

Find more wonderful yummies by visiting Cole & her Tuesday's at the Table.

SNOW is a 4 Letter Word

2009-12-28T22:22:00.001-06:00

Not so long ago, I introduced my son to the art of snowflake making. Then I even discovered these 3D wonders online and had to try that out too.

Now, we are decorated with over 100 snow flakes and growing. It's beautiful. There are stories about some - shapes that inspired them (Yoda's head, our Chihuahua's outline when laying on her back, raindrops, sporting teams logos, etc). So we've safely mastered the art of snowflake production - with both round and square bases. And we've made memories. And we've had a lot of fun and laughter doing it.

And it WAS a wonderful way to get into the spirit of the season.

And then Mother Nature came along and dumped all over our little world.

We've officially been in 2 blizzards this year. And we aren't even out of December yet! And I don't live in Alaska. Seriously, I understand that some people have dreamy eyes when they speak of a "white Christmas"...but wake up people! Snow = delays, unsafe travel, road crew workers being stuck in overtime around the clock and the chore of digging your car out - not once but 3 times in 3 days. And really, after you've safely covered the grass and given everything a nice dusting of powdery white - the rest is really unnecessary! We are sitting in 10ish inches of UNnecessary snow. At what point do you just give up and say - oh well, the outside world wasn't that great anyway---let's stay in?

I just saw the weather forecast. He said the S word. Again. I'm logging off before I'm overcome with the desire to send him hate mail--only because mother nature's inbox is full.

Enjoy the season. Somewhere there is a beach - it deserves to be used!

You Know You Have a Problem When...

2009-12-27T19:43:00.000-06:00

So I've been infected with the crafting bug. And the cooking bug. And the get fit bug. So all of that means I am REALLY enjoying the time off and the free time to do as I please (mostly). Which leads to the story of an ornament tree and some thoughts.

Whoever invented hot glue - you are my hero. I love your low temp meltage. Your strings that are like cheese. Your drippings that clean up easily. YOU. ARE. A. GENIUS.

But sometimes - you have to know when to say when.

If you have become a human spider web - put the gun down.

If you begin to rob your own Christmas tree to complete your latest craft project - all the while rationalizing that you were planning to do something different next year anyway - you MAY have a problem.

If you have dreams of additional stores you might be able to visit in hopes of finding the perfect holiday balls to create another craft with...step away from the balls.

If your perfection-ism prevents you from randomly assigning the placement of the balls - there is a support group near you, please go.

But in the end, if you have created a wonderful masterpiece thanks to inspiration from your bloggy friends - well, then it's not a problem.... it's a blog!

And a huge shout out to Kristen for the inspiration to give this project a shot! Super blog with great ideas!