My daughter just left a job at a penitentary. She was in a teaching role and often interacted with the inmates. She was describing tonight about the Harry Potter movie marathon she orchestrated before leaving her position.
She said one of the inmates commented: "Bet the author never thought a bunch of inmates would be sitting around watching the movies."
And the mother of the person sitting with those inmates (me) responded: "Bet this mom never thought her daughter would be sitting around watching Harry Potter with a bunch of inmates either!"
I'm so proud of her!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Series Cancelled
Well, apparently my prime time series has been cancelled. Just had the pilot and a couple of episodes. I don't seem to be on the tv listing any longer.
That's OK. People's viewing habits change and channel surfing doesn't seem to fit me.
Not sure if I was upstaged by a gameshow or the presidential debates.
Time for a commercial break.
That's OK. People's viewing habits change and channel surfing doesn't seem to fit me.
Not sure if I was upstaged by a gameshow or the presidential debates.
Time for a commercial break.
Rolling The Credits on 2007
I went for a walk today. I missed the really ferocious snow storm part, but I was able to walk while the wind was drifting the snow and the sky teased that it might get blue.
Bocelli played in my ear and I recalled Pavarotti blaring from the stereo while in the bar/alburgue in Lorca. I longed to be there again, speaking Spanglish with Jose. I remember hearing of Pavarotti's death on the Spanish equivalent of CNN early one morning while drinking my very first Cola Cao. I thik Jorge and Anna were there - must have been in Najera.
I swang in the swing at the park, noticing that I'd never felt the sensation of a snow drift beneath my feet when kicking off. I remembered my night of swinging there last year. Swinging in a snow storm conjures joy. Tesh played Winter Song for me.
I let the tears roll - for all the sad and all the great and all the resolve I have to make 2008 another blockbuster.
Bocelli played in my ear and I recalled Pavarotti blaring from the stereo while in the bar/alburgue in Lorca. I longed to be there again, speaking Spanglish with Jose. I remember hearing of Pavarotti's death on the Spanish equivalent of CNN early one morning while drinking my very first Cola Cao. I thik Jorge and Anna were there - must have been in Najera.
I swang in the swing at the park, noticing that I'd never felt the sensation of a snow drift beneath my feet when kicking off. I remembered my night of swinging there last year. Swinging in a snow storm conjures joy. Tesh played Winter Song for me.
I let the tears roll - for all the sad and all the great and all the resolve I have to make 2008 another blockbuster.
All Screwed Up
Me, the right as rain sleeper, is wide awake. I was so tired that I came to bed early. Then I dozed off with the lights on. Then, with lights off, I watched a movie - all of it (I can't do that on a NORMAL day), and then I was WIDE awake.
And here I am, surfing, blogging and waiting to be overcome with my sleepy.
And here I am, surfing, blogging and waiting to be overcome with my sleepy.
My Valentine Monologue - v5
Books
The Notebook
....or anything Nicholas Spark writes. He's the master of capturing true love in print.
Soul Mates
The Notebook
....or anything Nicholas Spark writes. He's the master of capturing true love in print.
Soul Mates
Saturday, December 29, 2007
My Valentine Monologue - v4
Movies
When Harry Met Sally
The American President
Music and Lyrics - and the soundtrack
One Fine Day - and the soundtrack
Lake House - and the soundtrack
Under The Tuscan Sun
Love Actually
Sleepless In Seattle
The Bodyguard - and the soundtrack
When Harry Met Sally
The American President
Music and Lyrics - and the soundtrack
One Fine Day - and the soundtrack
Lake House - and the soundtrack
Under The Tuscan Sun
Love Actually
Sleepless In Seattle
The Bodyguard - and the soundtrack
Time Out
Tonight is Time Out for Teri.
NOthing
NObody
NOwhere
I'm missing a party, ignoring my family, in PJ's, in hiding. Ahhh.
NOthing
NObody
NOwhere
I'm missing a party, ignoring my family, in PJ's, in hiding. Ahhh.
Friday, December 28, 2007
My Valentine Monologue - v3
I Love You
The two most profound times of hearing this were from the two men that I've loved that I didn't marry. Irony in play I'm sure. (Not that my husband's didn't make bells and whistles go off - they did too.)
Hearing D say this to me for the first time, after knowing him for nearly 15 years, was just amazing. I wasn't sure I'd really heard it. And yet, I knew, it had been on his lips for a long, long, long time.
The most amazing, and still startling for me to think about it, was when SweetStuff and I first exchanged the sentiment. Blurted? We were handing off a glass or something and both said it to each other at the very same time. This wasn't one of those staring into each other's eyes and it rolling out - it came out as easy and normal sounding as saying "thank you". And we both picked the same exact instant to have it "pop" out. We then stared at each other, laughed a lot (I think he snorted), and realized the dynamic had instantly changed...but on very equal footing.
I'm a lucky girl - that's for sure.
The two most profound times of hearing this were from the two men that I've loved that I didn't marry. Irony in play I'm sure. (Not that my husband's didn't make bells and whistles go off - they did too.)
Hearing D say this to me for the first time, after knowing him for nearly 15 years, was just amazing. I wasn't sure I'd really heard it. And yet, I knew, it had been on his lips for a long, long, long time.
The most amazing, and still startling for me to think about it, was when SweetStuff and I first exchanged the sentiment. Blurted? We were handing off a glass or something and both said it to each other at the very same time. This wasn't one of those staring into each other's eyes and it rolling out - it came out as easy and normal sounding as saying "thank you". And we both picked the same exact instant to have it "pop" out. We then stared at each other, laughed a lot (I think he snorted), and realized the dynamic had instantly changed...but on very equal footing.
I'm a lucky girl - that's for sure.
My Valentine Monologue - v2
Terms of Endearment
Mom - I wear this one proudly. I birthed two and five claim me. I'm honored and privileged to be so loved.
My current favorite is Butthead - SweetStuff and I used (and still use) it to indicate the threshold of acceptability has been hit. It saves us from using the word asshole and bitch - truly.
My next favorite is the one we girls use to protect our interests in regards to men - Rat Bastard. When this is used it means "the guy" has screwed up. Sometimes they don't know they screwed up - but none the less in the eyes of the girls club - they did.
Sweetie - Only a handful of people have (or can or do) use this as my moniker.
Tear Bear - One
T - One
Mom - I wear this one proudly. I birthed two and five claim me. I'm honored and privileged to be so loved.
My current favorite is Butthead - SweetStuff and I used (and still use) it to indicate the threshold of acceptability has been hit. It saves us from using the word asshole and bitch - truly.
My next favorite is the one we girls use to protect our interests in regards to men - Rat Bastard. When this is used it means "the guy" has screwed up. Sometimes they don't know they screwed up - but none the less in the eyes of the girls club - they did.
Sweetie - Only a handful of people have (or can or do) use this as my moniker.
Tear Bear - One
T - One
My Valentine Monologue - v1
Halloween > Christmas
Christmas > Valentine's Day
And somehow Thanksgiving and New Years still happen while overshadowed by the highly profitable gimme holidays. (I don't have turkey socks, nor do I have New Years socks and February 15, I'll don my St. Patrick's day socks).
This is not a diatribe about Valentine's Day. Rather it is a recollection and collection of joys and observations.
I don't recall a "bad" Valentine's day. I do recall solo holidays. On these, the girls and/or girlfriends have rallied to fill the testostrone void. And Im' sure there are those years, classified as "less memorable" that have fallen by the wayside of my ever elevating count of years on this planet.
I'm all for the "event" rather than the Kay, Jared, or Tom Shane approach. For me the time with my "significant other" and what memories we create is what I like. Don't get me wrong - jewelry is important to me - but I'm more impressed when it is attached to its own memorable event and not this commercial one.
Memorable: 1980 or '83 - A big cardboard sheep with "Ewe's not fat, ewe's just fluffy" Sharpie'd on it. (I was very pregnant - but can't remember which kidlet), Hershey Kisses and Rhubarb Pie - circa 1985. You light up my life - circa 1986 and 2007.
Christmas > Valentine's Day
And somehow Thanksgiving and New Years still happen while overshadowed by the highly profitable gimme holidays. (I don't have turkey socks, nor do I have New Years socks and February 15, I'll don my St. Patrick's day socks).
This is not a diatribe about Valentine's Day. Rather it is a recollection and collection of joys and observations.
I don't recall a "bad" Valentine's day. I do recall solo holidays. On these, the girls and/or girlfriends have rallied to fill the testostrone void. And Im' sure there are those years, classified as "less memorable" that have fallen by the wayside of my ever elevating count of years on this planet.
I'm all for the "event" rather than the Kay, Jared, or Tom Shane approach. For me the time with my "significant other" and what memories we create is what I like. Don't get me wrong - jewelry is important to me - but I'm more impressed when it is attached to its own memorable event and not this commercial one.
Memorable: 1980 or '83 - A big cardboard sheep with "Ewe's not fat, ewe's just fluffy" Sharpie'd on it. (I was very pregnant - but can't remember which kidlet), Hershey Kisses and Rhubarb Pie - circa 1985. You light up my life - circa 1986 and 2007.
I've loved four men in my life. And in reading what I just wrote, there's one over the top, outstanding Valentine's day for each. How appropriate.
Gender Bias?
First gels and liquids and now batteries.
From the AP today: WASHINGTON - To help reduce the risk of fires, air travelers will no longer be able to pack loose lithium batteries in checked luggage beginning Jan. 1, the Transportation Department said Friday. Passengers can still check baggage with lithium batteries if they are installed in electronic devices, such as cameras, cell phones and laptop computers. If packed in plastic bags, batteries may be in carry-on baggage. The limit is two batteries per passenger.
Shampoo, hair product, mascara, lipstick and now batteries. Messed and stressed is the new travel vogue.
From the AP today: WASHINGTON - To help reduce the risk of fires, air travelers will no longer be able to pack loose lithium batteries in checked luggage beginning Jan. 1, the Transportation Department said Friday. Passengers can still check baggage with lithium batteries if they are installed in electronic devices, such as cameras, cell phones and laptop computers. If packed in plastic bags, batteries may be in carry-on baggage. The limit is two batteries per passenger.
Shampoo, hair product, mascara, lipstick and now batteries. Messed and stressed is the new travel vogue.
Transformed
I wanted to see Transformers when it was in the movie theater. There's something wrong about a 40 something woman going to see this movie alone. So....the perfect setting would then be......
How else but with a seven year old sitting on your head? Or while babysitting? (More literally translated Grandma sitting on the baby in the middle of the living room floor.) He farted on my lap and I burped in his face. He told his mom I'm a better burper than he is. I win!!
We had a blast and it is a fabulous movie.
How else but with a seven year old sitting on your head? Or while babysitting? (More literally translated Grandma sitting on the baby in the middle of the living room floor.) He farted on my lap and I burped in his face. He told his mom I'm a better burper than he is. I win!!
We had a blast and it is a fabulous movie.
Now You See Him, Now You Don't
Awhile back I posted about all my Houdini's. I was thinking about this today. A couple of things stirred this again...but it came into focus again last night when a man I dated a couple of years ago came on line and was chatting with me. He reminded me of his Houdini-ness.
Again...the repeating the all too familiar words of how wonderful I was, hoping that I wasn't alone, etc., etc. I hear this a lot.
Frustrated with the "Groundhog Day" performances, I asked him what his "why" was.
My national anthem repeated: I'm great, I'm wonderful, previous woman screwed him over and couldn't trust, wouldn't get close, didn't want to get hurt again, blah, blah, blah.
If I'm so great and I'm so wonderful, where's the damned parade? And if the previous lot of women were so f&%$*&# horrible to them, again, where's my damned parade?
And if I start adopting generalizations about men? Where is that going to take us all? Just down the dum dum path with no chance of a yellow brick road.
For God's sake - get over it, get on with it, come to the present and let some freaking happiness in. And for the record: Not every woman that wanders into your life is out to take you out nor tie you down. Sometimes you're just nice company AND somtimes love just happens. Go with the freaking flow.
Diatribe complete.
Again...the repeating the all too familiar words of how wonderful I was, hoping that I wasn't alone, etc., etc. I hear this a lot.
Frustrated with the "Groundhog Day" performances, I asked him what his "why" was.
My national anthem repeated: I'm great, I'm wonderful, previous woman screwed him over and couldn't trust, wouldn't get close, didn't want to get hurt again, blah, blah, blah.
If I'm so great and I'm so wonderful, where's the damned parade? And if the previous lot of women were so f&%$*&# horrible to them, again, where's my damned parade?
And if I start adopting generalizations about men? Where is that going to take us all? Just down the dum dum path with no chance of a yellow brick road.
For God's sake - get over it, get on with it, come to the present and let some freaking happiness in. And for the record: Not every woman that wanders into your life is out to take you out nor tie you down. Sometimes you're just nice company AND somtimes love just happens. Go with the freaking flow.
Diatribe complete.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Christmas Kitchen
I decided I wanted to try to make Honey Walnut Chicken for Christmas. Wow - the effort and result were worthy of the goose and turkey traditions. It took some work, but it was worth the time, the hot grease blister and the cleanup efforts.
I also made Fried Rice from a recipe (always have done it by the seat of my pants before).
Both recipes I got from the Internet, both I'm going to adjust just a little (there's GOT to be an easier way on the shrimp). We were pretty close to Nirvana though.
During dinner my daughter and I were talking about the effort. I said it would be a good "couples meal" to cook - all the effort and coordintion and all. She agreed the food was great, but also offered this: "Yeah, but sometimes it's better to just order it, have it delivered and get naked."
I also made Fried Rice from a recipe (always have done it by the seat of my pants before).
Both recipes I got from the Internet, both I'm going to adjust just a little (there's GOT to be an easier way on the shrimp). We were pretty close to Nirvana though.
During dinner my daughter and I were talking about the effort. I said it would be a good "couples meal" to cook - all the effort and coordintion and all. She agreed the food was great, but also offered this: "Yeah, but sometimes it's better to just order it, have it delivered and get naked."
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
The Month of Christmas
I have had the nicest of December's. Lots of Christmas cheer shared all month long. Christmas was just absolutely wonderful.
My Christmas Story
I was telling my friend last night that I wanted my Grandson to at least sing Happy Birthday Baby Jesus this morning so he has a little foundation on why we're exchaning gifts. More than just the Santa syndrome, less than my belief system - something spiritual for the season.
As soon as I said it, the tree topper, which can, but doesn't blink, began to blink. It is a white round topper with white lights. In the center of the open circle is a tiny angel (of course) with a tiny trumpet.
I asked my friend if I'd just missed it blinking before. She said no. I will tell you it never has - I'm not in to the blinking Christmas light thing.
I have been blessed with my own Christmas Story.
As soon as I said it, the tree topper, which can, but doesn't blink, began to blink. It is a white round topper with white lights. In the center of the open circle is a tiny angel (of course) with a tiny trumpet.
I asked my friend if I'd just missed it blinking before. She said no. I will tell you it never has - I'm not in to the blinking Christmas light thing.
I have been blessed with my own Christmas Story.
Merry Christmas!
A friend at work gave me the gift of these words this year. One slip of paper for each day in December leading to Christmas. I'm re-gifting (Dave's words) to you.
He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree. --Roy L. Smith
Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most. --Ruth Carter Stapleton
There is magic in the very name of Christmas! --Charles Dickens
A little smile, a word of cheer, a bit of love from someone near. A little gift from one held dear, best wishes for the coming year. These make a Merry Christmas. --John Greenleaf Whittier
Christmas is not a date, it is a state of mind. --Mary Ellen Chase
For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. --Luke
Christmas is not in tinsel and lights and outward show. The secret lies in an inner glow. It's lighting a fire inside the hert. Goodwill and joy a vital part. It's higher thoughts and a great plan. It's a glorious dream in the soul of man. --Wilfred A. Peterson (The Art of Living)
May Christmas peace fill all the land with Children walking hand in hand and may the joy of Christmas light sparkle in their eyes tonight. -- Cynthia Holt Cummings
I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month. -- Harlan Miller
Believe in the wonder and the magic that is Christmas. --Lisi Martin
Joy is not in things, it is in US. -- Benjamin Franklin
Love came down at Christmas; Love all lovely, Love divine; Love was born at Christmas. Stars and angels gave the sign. --Christina Rossetti
Christmas is a word that contains everything that makes us smile. -- Author Unknown
If you can't see Christmas in the face of a child, you haven't been looking. -- Unknown
One of the msot glorious messes in the world is the mess cretead in the living room on Christmas day. Don't clean it up too quickly. --Andy Rooney
Christmas is not just a day, an event to be obeserved and speedily forgotten. It is a spirit which should permeate every part of our lives.
Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. --Norman Vincent Peale
All Hearts come home for Christmas--Unknown
Family traditions, especailly at Christmas, nourish the hearts of children and provide precious memories for us all.
--Larry
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched -- but are felt in the heart.
--Helen Keller
Christmas Gift Suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customers, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. -- Oren ArnoldChristmas is the season when people run out of money before they run out of friends.
--Larry Wilde
So remember while December brings the only Christmas day, in the year let there be Christmas in the things you do and say.
-- Anonymous
One perfect star to touch the night with warmth and promise shining bright.
One perfect light to reach the earth and show mankind the Christ Child's birth.
One perfect love to lead the way to peace and hope for us today.
One perfect sign for all to see. One Savior for eternity.
--Author Unknown
Somehow, not only at Christmas, but all year long through, the joy that you give to others, is the joy that comes back to you.
--John Greenleaf Whittier
A Christmas candle is a lovely thing; it makes no noise at all, but softly gives itself away; while quite unselfish it grows small.
--Eva K. Logue
When you ask God for a gift, be thankful if He sends not diamonds, pearls and riches, but the love of real true friends.
--Helen Steiner Rice
God grant us Hope and Faith and Love
Hope for a world grown cynically cold, hungry for power and geeedy for gold.
Faith to believe when within and without. There's a nameless fear in a world of doubt.
Love that is bigger than race or creed, to cover the world and fulfill each need.
God, grant these gifts to all troubled hearts as the old year ends and a new year starts.
--Helen Steiner Rice
This is Christmas: not the tinsel, not the giving and receiving, not even the carols, but the humble heart that receives anew the wondrous gift, the Christ.
-- Fank McKibben
May you have the gladness of Christmas which is HOPE; The Spirit of Christmas which is PEACE; and the heart of Christmas which is LOVE.
-- Ada V. Hendrick
Monday, December 24, 2007
Christmas Angel
My friend stayed at my house this weekend. After another trip to the ER, she's still not able to stay by herself. We do really well together so it has been a privilege rather than a bother. Tonight though, I was tired. I've worried, I've worked, I've Christmas prepped, I've had things to do for myself. I'm spent. I was out of ideas for dinner tonight - although the pantry and fridge are full.
And then, a pickup pulls up in the driveway. Out pops Dave with a huge holiday bag. Inside was a little piece of heaven...a full holiday dinner for the four of us: weanies in BBQ sauce, crackers, salmon, prime rib, buffalo roast, mashed potatoes, au jus, bread (homemade, I'll guess), baked beans, horse radish, homemade chocolate chip cookies, clementines, and two Utah truffles. And a whole lot relief for me. I'm (again) touched and appreciative.
Not only was it nice to catch a few minutes with him during the Holiday rush of families and friends, he got a chance to meet another work friend who had stopped by to check in.
How wonderful to be able to give AND receive. I feel very special.
And then, a pickup pulls up in the driveway. Out pops Dave with a huge holiday bag. Inside was a little piece of heaven...a full holiday dinner for the four of us: weanies in BBQ sauce, crackers, salmon, prime rib, buffalo roast, mashed potatoes, au jus, bread (homemade, I'll guess), baked beans, horse radish, homemade chocolate chip cookies, clementines, and two Utah truffles. And a whole lot relief for me. I'm (again) touched and appreciative.
Not only was it nice to catch a few minutes with him during the Holiday rush of families and friends, he got a chance to meet another work friend who had stopped by to check in.
How wonderful to be able to give AND receive. I feel very special.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Christmas Camino Blues
The emails began to be quiet for awhile. They have ramped up again in the last week or so. The content, most likely holiday emotions driven, is wistful and longing. Many desperately want to convene again - somewhere, somehow. Most want to bring the Camino back in the forefront of our daily existance (it took years to plan and "merely" a month to complete). We seek the companionship we quickly matured on the trail - the secrets, the yearnings, the trust, even the exhaustion.
Joop is going to visit Siggy and Harald next month and will visit Marlena soon. I am envious and long to join them. I promised Juergen I would call over Christmas. Zammy, I remembered to send Chanukkah greetings. Denise is traveling. I need to check on Aliche and Dominique. And I can't forget Javier - I need to message his daughter again.
These people enhanced my year and I too, miss them deeply. And, I want to walk again too.
Joop is going to visit Siggy and Harald next month and will visit Marlena soon. I am envious and long to join them. I promised Juergen I would call over Christmas. Zammy, I remembered to send Chanukkah greetings. Denise is traveling. I need to check on Aliche and Dominique. And I can't forget Javier - I need to message his daughter again.
These people enhanced my year and I too, miss them deeply. And, I want to walk again too.
Simply Irresistable!
These quotes were on my Google homepage today:
The opposite of the religious fanatic is not the fanatical atheist but the gentle cynic who cares not whether there is a god or not. - Eric Hoffer
Where is human nature so weak as in the bookstore? - Henry Ward Beecher
What I look forward to is continued immaturity followed by death. - Dave Barry
A good date in quotable land.
The opposite of the religious fanatic is not the fanatical atheist but the gentle cynic who cares not whether there is a god or not. - Eric Hoffer
Where is human nature so weak as in the bookstore? - Henry Ward Beecher
What I look forward to is continued immaturity followed by death. - Dave Barry
A good date in quotable land.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Dinner Is Served
I tried a new recipe tonight...cheese ravioli with toasted walnuts. I got the recipe from Real Simple. I paired it with La Vielle Ferme, Recolte 2005 with a side of sauted spinach with garlic. Oh my oh yum. Go me.
Let There Be Peace On Earth
As the song says:
Let there be peace on Earth and let it begin with me...
I'm all for the peace thing. I would describe myself as an advocate and promoter of peace for everyone, everywhere.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,317484,00.html
Let there be peace on Earth and let it begin with me...
I'm all for the peace thing. I would describe myself as an advocate and promoter of peace for everyone, everywhere.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,317484,00.html
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Really
My friend bought some Midol the other day. Before SHE bought it, SHE read the package.
Under Warnings SHE read:
Under Warnings SHE read:Ask a doctor before use if you have:
• glaucoma
• glaucoma
• difficulty in urination due to enlargement of the prostate gland
• a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis
Really.
Snow Tires
I finally got my snow tires on. This has become quite the chore for me. Last year, both winter and spring I had to haul my own tires to the station to get them changed out. OK - not a big deal when you have a car-car or a pickup. But when you drive a Barbie car - the tires are regular tire sized, but nothing else is - such as trunk space.
The configurations for transport consist either of putting the top down and bungy cording the tires to the "roll bar"/trunk and stacking up the tires in the seats. Or stacking up the tires in the seats with the top up, and hoping the mile or so I need to travel that I don't have to look out the right side window. Or multiple trips back and forth.
Anyway - the kidlet is home and the trunk I bought her is big. That and dinner out gets me a drop off and a ride back.
The configurations for transport consist either of putting the top down and bungy cording the tires to the "roll bar"/trunk and stacking up the tires in the seats. Or stacking up the tires in the seats with the top up, and hoping the mile or so I need to travel that I don't have to look out the right side window. Or multiple trips back and forth.
Anyway - the kidlet is home and the trunk I bought her is big. That and dinner out gets me a drop off and a ride back.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Breakfast Burritos
Preface - I love Randi's breakfast burritos - mine are decidedly different - but oh this was good. And my kidlet decided I have evolved in the kitchen during the last year. (Thanks to Louise, SweetStuff and some time).
Butter
Chopped Onions - about 1/2 a cup
Sliced Mushrooms - about a 1/2 to 3/4 cup
A little more than a handful of frozen TaterTots - Slightly thawed and gently broken up
2 Ham Slices - chopped, outer skin discarded
4 Eggs - beaten with a drizzle of milk added
Pepper (the ham provided enough salt for us)
Grated Cheddar Cheese
3 Large Tortillas
Melt butter, cook onions, add mushrooms. When cooked, add the TaterTots and ham. Heat through. Put in bowl and put a plate on top to keep warm.
Melt a little more butter, cook eggs, scrambling to med sized pieces
Heat tortilla slightly in microwave. Sprinkle tortilla with grated cheese, melt slightly in microwave again.
Place a large serving spoonful of vegetable/ham mixture and a large spoonful of the scrambled eggs, and grind some pepper on to the tortilla, roll up like a baby blanket and enjoy!
Butter
Chopped Onions - about 1/2 a cup
Sliced Mushrooms - about a 1/2 to 3/4 cup
A little more than a handful of frozen TaterTots - Slightly thawed and gently broken up
2 Ham Slices - chopped, outer skin discarded
4 Eggs - beaten with a drizzle of milk added
Pepper (the ham provided enough salt for us)
Grated Cheddar Cheese
3 Large Tortillas
Melt butter, cook onions, add mushrooms. When cooked, add the TaterTots and ham. Heat through. Put in bowl and put a plate on top to keep warm.
Melt a little more butter, cook eggs, scrambling to med sized pieces
Heat tortilla slightly in microwave. Sprinkle tortilla with grated cheese, melt slightly in microwave again.
Place a large serving spoonful of vegetable/ham mixture and a large spoonful of the scrambled eggs, and grind some pepper on to the tortilla, roll up like a baby blanket and enjoy!
Boys vs. B.O.B.
Rated R++
There is some folly in having your adult daughter living with you. You really learn what you taught that got through their thick flouncy pointed little heads during their childhood and adolescence.
My daughter and I watched half a movie (we both got IMs and calls that eventually distracted us), did our respective Christmas cards (mine voted most cool). She tried to stick her stinky feet under my nose.
We also got into a debate on whether real men or B.O.Bs were the best way to feel fulfilled in this life. Me, I prefer real men. They bring so much more to the party - the permanent imprint of cologne, coffee in the morning, touch, cuddles, passionate kisses. B.O.B is efficient, hopefully doesn't smell, and takes direction well.
B.O.B. requires little attention and won't walk out the door. Boys cling, boys flee, boys elate you, boys break you.
I'll accept the odds to experience the heat, touch and the scent for my playdate - thank you very much.
There is some folly in having your adult daughter living with you. You really learn what you taught that got through their thick flouncy pointed little heads during their childhood and adolescence.
My daughter and I watched half a movie (we both got IMs and calls that eventually distracted us), did our respective Christmas cards (mine voted most cool). She tried to stick her stinky feet under my nose.
We also got into a debate on whether real men or B.O.Bs were the best way to feel fulfilled in this life. Me, I prefer real men. They bring so much more to the party - the permanent imprint of cologne, coffee in the morning, touch, cuddles, passionate kisses. B.O.B is efficient, hopefully doesn't smell, and takes direction well.
B.O.B. requires little attention and won't walk out the door. Boys cling, boys flee, boys elate you, boys break you.
I'll accept the odds to experience the heat, touch and the scent for my playdate - thank you very much.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Not Like The First Christmas
We received gifts from despair.com :( (the frown is part of the logo). Check these lovelies out:
Reindeer Games
| You Are Cupid |
 A total romantic, you're always crushing on a new reindeer. Why You're Naughty: You've caused so much drama, all the reindeers aren't speaking to each other. Why You're Nice: You have a knack for playing matchmaker. You even hooked Rudolph up! |
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Christmas in My Hood
Tis the Season for The Gifts to circulate in my neighborhood.
I see the cars drive up the street and stop house by house, stopping for just a few minutes and moving on. It's interesting to see how they stop on the left and stop on the right. Mine will be skipped. It always is.
One neighbor, one, has really ever really paid any attention to me.
A couple stop by now and again, but I don't even know their names, or where they live. There's always a tie to the church when they stop by. I don't think their interest is in me, as they always attempt to commiserate about my singleness or job. I feel like it is always a campaign for my membership and not my friendship.
Fortunately, it's only where I live. Not the rest of my friends or co-workers. In fact there, it is quite the opposite. Must just be the particular 'hood.
I see the cars drive up the street and stop house by house, stopping for just a few minutes and moving on. It's interesting to see how they stop on the left and stop on the right. Mine will be skipped. It always is.
One neighbor, one, has really ever really paid any attention to me.
A couple stop by now and again, but I don't even know their names, or where they live. There's always a tie to the church when they stop by. I don't think their interest is in me, as they always attempt to commiserate about my singleness or job. I feel like it is always a campaign for my membership and not my friendship.
Fortunately, it's only where I live. Not the rest of my friends or co-workers. In fact there, it is quite the opposite. Must just be the particular 'hood.
Why?
I don't tend to dwell on why things happened, but more on what happened around whatever happened.
There is no way to justify someone getting sick, dying, hurt or losing a loved one. One could go crazy trying to back track, assign blame to individuals, challenge God, fate, Karma, etc.
But what I always marvel at is the the actions and activities surrounding crisis. There are a dozen miracles and graces that appear with every tragedy or incident.
Examples:
Curtis - we all miss him, Karen especially. She was with him as soon as she could, he got his blessing, we all came together, and Karen taught us grace, friendship and strength at the tenderest point in time. It also reminded us to be constantly kind (as he was) to our co-workers and friends - as we don't know when it will be our time to go.
Ray - I'm sorry he's gone - I wish I'd known him better. He died the day I began my camino, the hospitalerios in Granon took me in, I met some exceptional poeple that day, and I was still able to attend his memorial when I returned. I heard the entire town talking about how kind he was and how many lives he'd touched. I met family I'd never met before.
Louise - I did not feel well on Thursday night and still not very well on Friday. I chose to stay home. Had I been at work when she took ill, I would have been in a customer meeting that would have been difficult to extract myself from. I don't believe, being as close to her as I am, that I would have been sane waiting or going with her in the ambulance. Blaine and Matthew found her, without reason to be where she was. Blaine went in the ambulance, Matthew took her phone and called me and then came and got me. By being home, I was two miles from the hospital. A series of calls ensued to make sure everyone that needed to know was contacted. Soon her room was filled with all of us. The hospital let us all stay. We think the worst is over, but the gift of this incident.... she knows she's very loved and I know if my turn comes around - I won't be alone either.
So many graces come to us, not from the sadness or pain we inevitibly encounter, but from what we take from it.
There is no way to justify someone getting sick, dying, hurt or losing a loved one. One could go crazy trying to back track, assign blame to individuals, challenge God, fate, Karma, etc.
But what I always marvel at is the the actions and activities surrounding crisis. There are a dozen miracles and graces that appear with every tragedy or incident.
Examples:
Curtis - we all miss him, Karen especially. She was with him as soon as she could, he got his blessing, we all came together, and Karen taught us grace, friendship and strength at the tenderest point in time. It also reminded us to be constantly kind (as he was) to our co-workers and friends - as we don't know when it will be our time to go.
Ray - I'm sorry he's gone - I wish I'd known him better. He died the day I began my camino, the hospitalerios in Granon took me in, I met some exceptional poeple that day, and I was still able to attend his memorial when I returned. I heard the entire town talking about how kind he was and how many lives he'd touched. I met family I'd never met before.
Louise - I did not feel well on Thursday night and still not very well on Friday. I chose to stay home. Had I been at work when she took ill, I would have been in a customer meeting that would have been difficult to extract myself from. I don't believe, being as close to her as I am, that I would have been sane waiting or going with her in the ambulance. Blaine and Matthew found her, without reason to be where she was. Blaine went in the ambulance, Matthew took her phone and called me and then came and got me. By being home, I was two miles from the hospital. A series of calls ensued to make sure everyone that needed to know was contacted. Soon her room was filled with all of us. The hospital let us all stay. We think the worst is over, but the gift of this incident.... she knows she's very loved and I know if my turn comes around - I won't be alone either.
So many graces come to us, not from the sadness or pain we inevitibly encounter, but from what we take from it.
Teri's Christmas Carol
We had our byLOGICAL Family Christmas Party last night. Come join the fun....
http://terischristmascarol.blogspot.com/
http://terischristmascarol.blogspot.com/
Friday, December 14, 2007
My Most Unusual Week
I think this has been the most unusual week I have ever been through.
Sunday: Classic - walked through the snow, did my craft thing with Randi, baked for the cookie exchange.
Monday: Date - rose, dinner, Christmas musical, conversation - very nice. Was asked for another date.
Tuesday: Work, work, work. Chat, chat, chat
Wednesday: Received email that for personal reasons (I won't share here), we won't be dating any more.
Thursday: Worked while not feeling well - was in bed by 6pm.
Friday: Woke up, raised head, room proceeded to spin, called office - chose to stay home. Much later, got up, ate a slice of toast, went back to bed. Slept until I heard the phone ring and Matt said Louise was leaving work in an ambulance and Blaine was riding with her.
Fortunately the hospital is within a couple of miles of my house. Matt picked me up (remember dizzy this morning?) and took me over. At one point there were I think, 6-7 of us packed into her ER room.....all relatives, of course. They still don't know the cause - but she's here tonight so if we need a repeat performance, we can just go. A bunch of people hung around here off and on today too, making sure we were both OK.
And..tomorrow we'd all planned our gift exchange and it's at my house, so I needed to do some of my cooking tonight. There was so much going on that my kitchen became a wreck. I just got it cleaned up.
I also got a call from my girlfriend in Oregon and my daughter tonight. So many people needed me today. Everyone scooped me up too so I could be with Louise and then they all took such good care of both of us.
Sweet stuff also IMed a few times today - checking in on us both.
I Nyquilled it and I'm fading fast. Tomorrow is going to be another long day.
Then my friend called from Denver,
Sunday: Classic - walked through the snow, did my craft thing with Randi, baked for the cookie exchange.
Monday: Date - rose, dinner, Christmas musical, conversation - very nice. Was asked for another date.
Tuesday: Work, work, work. Chat, chat, chat
Wednesday: Received email that for personal reasons (I won't share here), we won't be dating any more.
Thursday: Worked while not feeling well - was in bed by 6pm.
Friday: Woke up, raised head, room proceeded to spin, called office - chose to stay home. Much later, got up, ate a slice of toast, went back to bed. Slept until I heard the phone ring and Matt said Louise was leaving work in an ambulance and Blaine was riding with her.
Fortunately the hospital is within a couple of miles of my house. Matt picked me up (remember dizzy this morning?) and took me over. At one point there were I think, 6-7 of us packed into her ER room.....all relatives, of course. They still don't know the cause - but she's here tonight so if we need a repeat performance, we can just go. A bunch of people hung around here off and on today too, making sure we were both OK.
And..tomorrow we'd all planned our gift exchange and it's at my house, so I needed to do some of my cooking tonight. There was so much going on that my kitchen became a wreck. I just got it cleaned up.
I also got a call from my girlfriend in Oregon and my daughter tonight. So many people needed me today. Everyone scooped me up too so I could be with Louise and then they all took such good care of both of us.
Sweet stuff also IMed a few times today - checking in on us both.
I Nyquilled it and I'm fading fast. Tomorrow is going to be another long day.
Then my friend called from Denver,
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Cookie Exchange
We had our first annual Holiday Cookie Exchange at work today. I had suggested it and it was a great hit.
Everyone brings one or two kinds of homemade or speciality cookies or candies. They are displayed on a table. All the "bringers" then go around the table collecting a cookie or two from each plate. Then, taking a box, basket or wheelbarrow, everyone goes around the table until all the goodies are gone from the table.
The end result is a box full of various cookies that make it look like they spent the entire holiday in the kitchen cooking. The variety is amazing and tall the treats are fabulous!
An encore is planned for next year.
Everyone brings one or two kinds of homemade or speciality cookies or candies. They are displayed on a table. All the "bringers" then go around the table collecting a cookie or two from each plate. Then, taking a box, basket or wheelbarrow, everyone goes around the table until all the goodies are gone from the table.
The end result is a box full of various cookies that make it look like they spent the entire holiday in the kitchen cooking. The variety is amazing and tall the treats are fabulous!
An encore is planned for next year.
Remind Me Again Why I Need A Man:
LOL - this was sent to me by my Librarian friend today :
REMIND ME AGAIN WHY I NEED A MAN: Claudia Carroll: Harper Collins: Fiction: 374 pages
On paper, Amelia Lockwood, 37, seems to have it all—a great career as a television producer and great friends in married Caroline, bitter Rachel, and flamboyant Jamie—except for a man. Determined to change this, she enrolls in a night course for women over 35 on how to find a husband. The instructor demands she and her fellow classmates revisit 10 past boyfriends past in order to figure out what they have been doing wrong. Amelia dutifully makes the calls, revisiting the louse who cheated on her, the vain control freak, and the snooty rich boy. The one ex she doesn't want to revisit, her most recent boyfriend, turns up on her doorstep to announce that he not only is engaged but also will be living, along with his bride-to-be, right down the street. Buoyed by a charming cast of characters, Carroll's novel will have readers rapidly turning the pages to find out if Amelia finds her man and lives happily ever after—with or without him.
REMIND ME AGAIN WHY I NEED A MAN: Claudia Carroll: Harper Collins: Fiction: 374 pages
On paper, Amelia Lockwood, 37, seems to have it all—a great career as a television producer and great friends in married Caroline, bitter Rachel, and flamboyant Jamie—except for a man. Determined to change this, she enrolls in a night course for women over 35 on how to find a husband. The instructor demands she and her fellow classmates revisit 10 past boyfriends past in order to figure out what they have been doing wrong. Amelia dutifully makes the calls, revisiting the louse who cheated on her, the vain control freak, and the snooty rich boy. The one ex she doesn't want to revisit, her most recent boyfriend, turns up on her doorstep to announce that he not only is engaged but also will be living, along with his bride-to-be, right down the street. Buoyed by a charming cast of characters, Carroll's novel will have readers rapidly turning the pages to find out if Amelia finds her man and lives happily ever after—with or without him.
Forgotten Carols
Monday night my date and I saw Forgotten Carols. A wonderful Christmas musical which reminds us of the reasons for the Season and what families are all about. Beautifully portrayed, touching and worth setting the time aside despite the annual holiday frenzy you'll find yourself trapped in.
Get out of the house, get out of the stores, stop and enjoy!
Get out of the house, get out of the stores, stop and enjoy!
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Rereading a Book
Usually I don't reread books. I already know the ending - right? Tonight I went back and looked at some of my past blogs. Kind of interesting to look at this day last year and before.
Things I've noticed...This year was tough for me, but I don't seem to be looking in my rear view window of life any more. I stopped about mid-August (specifically 14 days after July 29). This year taught me a lot of lessons. It closed some windows, opened some doors and set me loose with the most ultimate freedom imaginable. My sorrows ebbed, my heart open, my life still wonderful - what a wonderful way to close out the year.
This past week alone has been notable. I walked in the snow at night, sledded (at night - bonus points), a date, saw a play, baked, shopped, partied and decorated. Yes, things are good and I'm still the luckiest person on Earth.
See the ending still doesn't seem to change and that's a good thing.
Things I've noticed...This year was tough for me, but I don't seem to be looking in my rear view window of life any more. I stopped about mid-August (specifically 14 days after July 29). This year taught me a lot of lessons. It closed some windows, opened some doors and set me loose with the most ultimate freedom imaginable. My sorrows ebbed, my heart open, my life still wonderful - what a wonderful way to close out the year.
This past week alone has been notable. I walked in the snow at night, sledded (at night - bonus points), a date, saw a play, baked, shopped, partied and decorated. Yes, things are good and I'm still the luckiest person on Earth.
See the ending still doesn't seem to change and that's a good thing.
Sexual Disorientation
This week's Intermountain Catholic had a letter and reponse in Pastoral Answers that I was so proud of. Proud because it was answers with a gentleness that I feel is what being Christian is all about. And the fact that it was a Catholic response made my heart swell.
The writer of the letter, a male, wrote of his torment, since childhood, with wanting to be a female. He said he'd a good life with his wife and family and had been a faithful Catholic, but still struggled with this desire.
The response, I felt was wonderful: The priest wrote that this desire seemed to affect a small number of people and then went on to acknowledge that it was very real and could make for a very confused and disoriented life. He went on to say it wasn't well studied or understood and therefore could offer no professional guidance (as a priest) on the cause or characteristics. The priest's guidance was to continue to attend Mass and stay with the sacraments and try every day to carry on as a good Catholic to the best of his ability. And then hit the home run: "In no way does your condition affect your standing in the eyes of God, and you are still, and always will be, his precious child." How beautiful. The priest did suggest that he discuss the condition with his doctor or a counselor if he could as those were the professionals who would have access to the clinical information he might want.
The writer of the letter, a male, wrote of his torment, since childhood, with wanting to be a female. He said he'd a good life with his wife and family and had been a faithful Catholic, but still struggled with this desire.
The response, I felt was wonderful: The priest wrote that this desire seemed to affect a small number of people and then went on to acknowledge that it was very real and could make for a very confused and disoriented life. He went on to say it wasn't well studied or understood and therefore could offer no professional guidance (as a priest) on the cause or characteristics. The priest's guidance was to continue to attend Mass and stay with the sacraments and try every day to carry on as a good Catholic to the best of his ability. And then hit the home run: "In no way does your condition affect your standing in the eyes of God, and you are still, and always will be, his precious child." How beautiful. The priest did suggest that he discuss the condition with his doctor or a counselor if he could as those were the professionals who would have access to the clinical information he might want.
After The Storm
My favorite thing about winter growing up in Colorado and living in Utah is when the sun shines following a big ole snow storm. It is glorious.
I'd include pictures, but the SD card in my camera was cranky this morning.
I'd include pictures, but the SD card in my camera was cranky this morning.
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Dream Big
Dave sent me these lyrics. Kinda me don't you think?
Dream Big
When you cry be sure to dry your eyes
'Cause better days are sure to come
And when you smile be sure to smile wide
Don't let them know that they have won
And when you walk, walk with pride
Don't show the hurt inside
Because the pain will soon be gone
And when you dream, dream big
As big as the ocean blue
'Cause when you dream it might come true
When you dream, dream big
When you laugh be sure to laugh out loud
'Cause it will carry all your cares away
And when you see, see the beauty all around and in yourself
And it'll help you feel okay
And when you pray, pray for strength
To help you carry on
When the troubles come your way
And when you dream, dream big
As big as the ocean blue
'Cause when you dream it might come true
When you dream, dream big
When you laugh be sure to laugh out loud
'Cause it will carry all your cares away
And when you see, see the beauty all around and in yourself
And it'll help you feel okay
And when you pray, pray for strength
To help you carry on
When the troubles come your way
And when you dream, dream big
As big as the ocean blue
'Cause when you dream it might come true
When you dream, dream big
The song itself can be played using this player: http://shupe.net/jb_popup.htm
Dream Big
When you cry be sure to dry your eyes
'Cause better days are sure to come
And when you smile be sure to smile wide
Don't let them know that they have won
And when you walk, walk with pride
Don't show the hurt inside
Because the pain will soon be gone
And when you dream, dream big
As big as the ocean blue
'Cause when you dream it might come true
When you dream, dream big
When you laugh be sure to laugh out loud
'Cause it will carry all your cares away
And when you see, see the beauty all around and in yourself
And it'll help you feel okay
And when you pray, pray for strength
To help you carry on
When the troubles come your way
And when you dream, dream big
As big as the ocean blue
'Cause when you dream it might come true
When you dream, dream big
When you laugh be sure to laugh out loud
'Cause it will carry all your cares away
And when you see, see the beauty all around and in yourself
And it'll help you feel okay
And when you pray, pray for strength
To help you carry on
When the troubles come your way
And when you dream, dream big
As big as the ocean blue
'Cause when you dream it might come true
When you dream, dream big
The song itself can be played using this player: http://shupe.net/jb_popup.htm
Having Fun!
This week was super busy at work. We're changing some processes and the changes are allowing me to be more involved with a lot of things. This is a busy time of year anyway...new budget money being unleashed (we hope) and positioning and planning create a flurry of activity.
I had a date too. Nice. The time flew by. Hiker, software, blogger guy. We have a lot in common I think, and what is different, sounds really interesting. He asked me out again :). I love meeting new people and forging new friendships...and at this time of year it makes the lights twinkle a little brighter.
The manager's Christmas party for work was this week. I enjoyed it - some great people at our table. We did a lot of laughing.
Today I went to see The Foreigner in SLC. Nice play. The weather held out until on our way back home. Very scary and slow ride.
I had a date too. Nice. The time flew by. Hiker, software, blogger guy. We have a lot in common I think, and what is different, sounds really interesting. He asked me out again :). I love meeting new people and forging new friendships...and at this time of year it makes the lights twinkle a little brighter.
The manager's Christmas party for work was this week. I enjoyed it - some great people at our table. We did a lot of laughing.
Today I went to see The Foreigner in SLC. Nice play. The weather held out until on our way back home. Very scary and slow ride.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Rockefeller Christmas Tree
I had the good fortune to see the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center a few years ago. I was disappointed, thinking it always appeared to be "bigger" than what I was looking at. I guess the perspective was comparing my field of vision to the filling up of my television screen. Whatever.
One of my friends just got back from NYC. We were talking about the tree and the question came up about how the tree actually got to the Center each year. Only a Google away I found:
http://www.wnbc.com/christmastree/1775313/detail.html
One of my friends just got back from NYC. We were talking about the tree and the question came up about how the tree actually got to the Center each year. Only a Google away I found:
http://www.wnbc.com/christmastree/1775313/detail.html
- The tree travels on a custom-made, telescoping trailer, which can stretch to 100 feet and can accommodate a tree up to 125 feet tall. It takes 15-20 people and a 280-ton, all-terrain hydraulic crane to handle the tree. The same crane is used to erect and remove the tree from its place of honor at Rockefeller Center.
The tree is transported from its home to New York City and then travels in the middle of the night with a police escort on a carefully planned route so traffic is disrupted as little as possible.
Everything you ever wanted to know about the tree can be found on the above link. Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Mystery Date
A little jingle started running through my head this morning. "Are you ready for your Mystery Date?" The jingle was for a pre-teen board game. Circa 1970. I found a place online where the vintage game can be ordered. A full set, good condition now runs about $125.Here's the promo for it: Hello! Are you ready for your Mystery Date? You will never guess where your going! A Picnic, a Formal Dance, Skating, the Beach you will just have to play the game to find out. You will never know where it is for sure until you open the door. Dressed for Skiing? Sorry, Your date was going for a Picnic! Better luck next time!
Do I want to be 10 again? Nope.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Monday!
Today was a willy-nilly, up and down, crazy, hectic, kind of day.
Drag the day out long enough and sure enough - it can end on a high note!
Tea cup up!
Drag the day out long enough and sure enough - it can end on a high note!
Tea cup up!
Tradition
When I first met Robert's girls, I was at a loss on how to entertain them, get to know them. Yes, I had kids, girls too. But how does one break the ice and try to create a relationship when you're 20 something and they're under five?
Gingerbread houses.
Now many, many, years later, our (his grown into mine) daughter shares the tradition with her son. I present Jaden's gingerbread house. (Man I didn't think of Tootsie Roll Pops as trees - COOL!)
Gingerbread houses.
Now many, many, years later, our (his grown into mine) daughter shares the tradition with her son. I present Jaden's gingerbread house. (Man I didn't think of Tootsie Roll Pops as trees - COOL!)
December 4 - I just got this email from Laura, Jaden's mom: "I thought about you and the gingerbread houses the entire time Jaden and I were making the house. Thank you mom. It is a great memory. You did good with us."
What's better than this? Huh?
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Grumble Grumble Grumble
Today did NOT turn out as I expected. It is taking me forever to wrap these gifts and I'm BORED!
And I'm out of gift tags. Normally, I would just go make some, but my printer's color ink isn't working. I'm resorting to mailing labels and markers.
The unwrapped gifts and my living room mess aren't diminishing, but my patience is.
The tree looks OK though.
And I'm out of gift tags. Normally, I would just go make some, but my printer's color ink isn't working. I'm resorting to mailing labels and markers.
The unwrapped gifts and my living room mess aren't diminishing, but my patience is.
The tree looks OK though.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Snow Play
A quick update and then I'm digging in to do my chore list - snow wasn't on it and I've let it guide my day thus far. I really don't want to be inside. It is beautiful and relatively warm outside - I want to PLAY!
I oogled, I awed, I sipped coffee and then shoveled my walks. About mid way though I realized my back was hurting very badly. One of two things - I hurt it using the shovel I hate anyway (I go for the generic flat type) or since it had been weathery, my sinuses were causing the pain. Some ibuprophen and sudafed seem to have done the trick - or at least help. I went back out and kept shoveling.
I have a little car - it gets around pretty good. I clean the driveway really well, especially after the plow guy does the street so that I don't high center. Today we played tag. He'd pass, I'd shovel, he'd pass again, I'd push some more to the sides. Finally he just plowed through my piles and shoved them down the street. And he came back and did it again. He rolled down his window and said "I"m trying!!". I thanked him profusely. I have the cleanest drive area of the whole area.
I wasn't going to allow any freakin back pain because I hadn't done my sledding yet. Now I have. About a dozen passes. I love going after the kids have started the tracks. Wheeeeeeeeee. A good run nearly knocks me into the sandbox.
Then...(see why I have nothing done inside the house???)...I make Cola Cao, grabbed two magazines and my santa hat and headed back to the park to sip and read. (One mag was to sit on.) The quiet of the air when it snows is so special. Yes, my pages got wet from the flakes, but who cares?
All I really want to do today is walk and take it all in.
I oogled, I awed, I sipped coffee and then shoveled my walks. About mid way though I realized my back was hurting very badly. One of two things - I hurt it using the shovel I hate anyway (I go for the generic flat type) or since it had been weathery, my sinuses were causing the pain. Some ibuprophen and sudafed seem to have done the trick - or at least help. I went back out and kept shoveling.
I have a little car - it gets around pretty good. I clean the driveway really well, especially after the plow guy does the street so that I don't high center. Today we played tag. He'd pass, I'd shovel, he'd pass again, I'd push some more to the sides. Finally he just plowed through my piles and shoved them down the street. And he came back and did it again. He rolled down his window and said "I"m trying!!". I thanked him profusely. I have the cleanest drive area of the whole area.
I wasn't going to allow any freakin back pain because I hadn't done my sledding yet. Now I have. About a dozen passes. I love going after the kids have started the tracks. Wheeeeeeeeee. A good run nearly knocks me into the sandbox.
Then...(see why I have nothing done inside the house???)...I make Cola Cao, grabbed two magazines and my santa hat and headed back to the park to sip and read. (One mag was to sit on.) The quiet of the air when it snows is so special. Yes, my pages got wet from the flakes, but who cares?
All I really want to do today is walk and take it all in.
I Couldn't Have...
...ordered a more perfect day!
It's SNOWING! It has snowed most of the night. Not an excessive amount. It is beautiful! And
1) It's Saturday - so I don't have drive anywhere
2) I got 99% of my Christmas shopping done yesterday
3) I get to put up the tree with this gorgeous ambiance
4) I get to wrap presents on this perfect Winter day
5) This is when I LOVE my 16' windows - heating bill and all!
6) I get to shovel snow
7) The boots and rain gear going on - time to go SLEDDING in my park!
8) The cocoa tastes twice as good!
It's SNOWING! It has snowed most of the night. Not an excessive amount. It is beautiful! And
1) It's Saturday - so I don't have drive anywhere
2) I got 99% of my Christmas shopping done yesterday
3) I get to put up the tree with this gorgeous ambiance
4) I get to wrap presents on this perfect Winter day
5) This is when I LOVE my 16' windows - heating bill and all!
6) I get to shovel snow
7) The boots and rain gear going on - time to go SLEDDING in my park!
8) The cocoa tastes twice as good!
