I am 48 years old today. Yikes. Or ugh. Not sure which is more appropriate. Maybe 'yeah' is good. OK, so 'yeah' it is!
My 40's have been my best decade ever. I have been happier in this past decade than ever in my life, largely due to leaving condo hell and having a real home. My favorite place on earth, which I know you know 'cuz I say it here all the time.
I awoke at 3:30 this morning to find a lovely card from hubby on my computer - the card had a retirement theme to it. 'Picture this: You and I, years and years from now, cruising along some coastal highway with the top down, stereo blasting, the wind whipping our hair. Whatever we want to do, we do it. No agenda. No schedule, nobody else to worry about. We travel the country, buying silly T-shirts and sending postcards, stopping at tiny roadside cafes in search of the world's best blueberry pie. No hurry. No rush. Relaxing in the comfort of a lifetime of companionship. You and I....lovers, friends, partners on this road of life. Happy Birthday'.
Isn't that the best card EVER? And I'd only edit it to just say 'years from now' since it's not really 'years and years' away...and that's a nice thing to think. And probably change the word stereo to 'iPod blasting' 'cuz that's what we'll be playing. Setting up 'trip lists' of road tunes before we depart.
I can't wait for the next 48 years. Truly cannot wait.
But, work beckons so I need to get a move on. Thank goodness the card also included a Starbucks gift card. I have been trekking across town this week to get my daily iced tea ration. Need it with 12 hour workdays over and over and over.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Monday, June 02, 2008
Salt Rising
As a kid, we spent weekends at our grandmother's mountain cabin in Prescott, AZ a fair amount of time. After June was over, our beach cabin was far too hot so we'd spend weekends away from the scorching city heat and head up to the mountains.
One of the things I most remember about those times (and there are plenty of great memories associated with the cabin and the summer weekends we spent there) was Salt Rising Bread. A little bakery in town made the bread every Saturday and we'd head into town and hoard it. Bring loaves home to eat that weekend; put a bunch in my grandmother's freezer for later; and take some home to our Phoenix home. There is nothing on this earth as delectable as fresh Salt Rising Bread. I love it toasted. It is just delicious.
When I was 'in between jobs' in the fall/winter of 2001, I attempted to make this bread. The starter is made with either cornmeal or sliced potatoes, scalded milk and flour. The trick is: it MUST be maintained at 100-105 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 hours for it to appropriately 'react' and double in size. The bread has no yeast in it - it rises basically via 'fermenting' and it needs heat to do that. Finding a way to keep that temperature constant in my grandmother's day was easy - gas stoves had pilot lights and stayed warm. Or you could heat the oven for a bit, let it cool a tad and stick the starter in there.
Nowadays, ovens don't have pilot lights. I tried leaving the oven light on after having the oven on - but the lowest the digital control oven can heat to is above 200 - so it falls below 100 long before the 10 hours is up. I tried a lot of things. None worked.
King Arthur Flour company was selling a salt rising yeast - basically the 'starter' in dried form. So I always thought that when I retire, I'll order some and make the bread. But, I found out this week that they no longer make it and so I'm stuck.
'Lo and behold, the Internet.
First, I found a bakery in Berkeley that makes the bread every Wednesday. So one of the Wednesday's of my upcoming vacation will be spent schlepping to Berkeley and hoarding a ton of the bread. I'm resisting the urge to buy a freezer to store 'extra'.
And then, tonight, I did a Google search on 'salt rising starter' - and there it was - an entire video library of all the methods of making the starter; different options for keeping it warm; hints for the 'sponge' - which is like a continuation of the complex starter process but for a shorter time. And finally, the actual bread. So I'm going to try to make it again when I'm on vacation. IF I can do this, I will be able to make my own. And someday, maybe spread the goodness of SR Bread across the land. It is so great.
I know my sister is reading this and yes, if I'm successful, I will make extra and overnight ship it to you. I promise.
One of the things I most remember about those times (and there are plenty of great memories associated with the cabin and the summer weekends we spent there) was Salt Rising Bread. A little bakery in town made the bread every Saturday and we'd head into town and hoard it. Bring loaves home to eat that weekend; put a bunch in my grandmother's freezer for later; and take some home to our Phoenix home. There is nothing on this earth as delectable as fresh Salt Rising Bread. I love it toasted. It is just delicious.
When I was 'in between jobs' in the fall/winter of 2001, I attempted to make this bread. The starter is made with either cornmeal or sliced potatoes, scalded milk and flour. The trick is: it MUST be maintained at 100-105 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 hours for it to appropriately 'react' and double in size. The bread has no yeast in it - it rises basically via 'fermenting' and it needs heat to do that. Finding a way to keep that temperature constant in my grandmother's day was easy - gas stoves had pilot lights and stayed warm. Or you could heat the oven for a bit, let it cool a tad and stick the starter in there.
Nowadays, ovens don't have pilot lights. I tried leaving the oven light on after having the oven on - but the lowest the digital control oven can heat to is above 200 - so it falls below 100 long before the 10 hours is up. I tried a lot of things. None worked.
King Arthur Flour company was selling a salt rising yeast - basically the 'starter' in dried form. So I always thought that when I retire, I'll order some and make the bread. But, I found out this week that they no longer make it and so I'm stuck.
'Lo and behold, the Internet.
First, I found a bakery in Berkeley that makes the bread every Wednesday. So one of the Wednesday's of my upcoming vacation will be spent schlepping to Berkeley and hoarding a ton of the bread. I'm resisting the urge to buy a freezer to store 'extra'.
And then, tonight, I did a Google search on 'salt rising starter' - and there it was - an entire video library of all the methods of making the starter; different options for keeping it warm; hints for the 'sponge' - which is like a continuation of the complex starter process but for a shorter time. And finally, the actual bread. So I'm going to try to make it again when I'm on vacation. IF I can do this, I will be able to make my own. And someday, maybe spread the goodness of SR Bread across the land. It is so great.
I know my sister is reading this and yes, if I'm successful, I will make extra and overnight ship it to you. I promise.
Mole
The Mole returns to ABC tonight - we love this show and have really missed it. Of course, part of my adoration of the show was the eye candy effect the previous host had on me - Anderson Cooper is just so .....um.....well....HOT. Don't know how else to describe it. He's just so incredibly intriguing and handsome. No offense to my sweet hubby who is also just fab. But AC is just eye candy to the max. Anyway, the show is back and we are looking forward to it's return. Sadly, it is on at 10PM which is waaaaaaay past my bed time so we will PVR it instead and watch it together tomorrow evening. If you've never watched it, do. It's like Amazing Race only with the twist that someone is an 'insider' trying to trip the other contestants up - and trying not to be discovered as The Mole. It's a lot of fun and a mystery, to boot.
I was up at 4 this morning. Was awake every hour or so all night long so I really should have just gotten up - but it would have been around 2 and that seemed insanely early, even for me. I guess I might have been hot - I turned off the air and opened windows instead. The family would live hermetically sealed if I let them, but I'm on a campaign to lower our electric bill as much as possible so we're trying to get by with no A/C. It's working - our last bill had a credit balance and that was BEFORE I send in this month's payment. [You are probably asking 'why is she sending in a payment when there's a credit balance?' We're on a balanced payment plan and we pay the same every month. They will review our usage shortly and lower our payment if that's what's appropriate. So I pay what they bill requires and we'll build up a 'prepayment' and eventually, our monthly payment will go down]. So I do think we're using fewer KwH though not without some effort on my part. I run around the house turning things off. Watch for lights left on. And when it's cooler outside, I try to open windows and let fresh air cool the place down. It works. But then I have to run around in the morning and close everything back up because the kids will forget and run the AC in the afternoon, thus wasting $$. It's complicated. For me. For everyone else, they remain oblivious.
Anyway, so I was awake a lot - and while I may have been warm from no A/C, I'm reasonably sure it's just my ovaries throwing off one more salvo across the bow as they limp into full time retirement. I had not had a hot flash for a really long time, but they appear to be back with a vengeance. Waking me up with the urgent need to hop in a cool shower or jump in the pool. Thankfully, I now just say (sometimes over and over) 'it will pass in just a little bit'. They last less than a minute, though it feels like a lot longer. Anyway, they were probably the reason I slept poorly. That, and the 10,000 things running through my brain demanding my attention. And my hips are killing me - just so sore and stiff. I haven't been taking my anti-inflammatory med and it's starting to 'show'. It's time to get cortisone shots into my hip joints again - yes, it hurts as much as you'd think it would. But the relief is instantaneous and it lasts a long time.
The kids were home for their first day of summer vacation. Which involved calling frequently, all phones, (home and their cells) and getting no answer. One was playing drums. The other slept until noon. And was 'pissy' that I suggested 12 hours of sleep was ENOUGH and perhaps he should get moving. Arrived home to find 'stuff' everywhere. So we will be having a discussion when they return. One is spending the night elsewhere. The other, we're expecting home though who knows? Have no idea when.
I'm retiring for the evening shortly having decided that attempting to do work when I'm falling asleep is pointless. I'll sleep and get up early and get on it.
I was up at 4 this morning. Was awake every hour or so all night long so I really should have just gotten up - but it would have been around 2 and that seemed insanely early, even for me. I guess I might have been hot - I turned off the air and opened windows instead. The family would live hermetically sealed if I let them, but I'm on a campaign to lower our electric bill as much as possible so we're trying to get by with no A/C. It's working - our last bill had a credit balance and that was BEFORE I send in this month's payment. [You are probably asking 'why is she sending in a payment when there's a credit balance?' We're on a balanced payment plan and we pay the same every month. They will review our usage shortly and lower our payment if that's what's appropriate. So I pay what they bill requires and we'll build up a 'prepayment' and eventually, our monthly payment will go down]. So I do think we're using fewer KwH though not without some effort on my part. I run around the house turning things off. Watch for lights left on. And when it's cooler outside, I try to open windows and let fresh air cool the place down. It works. But then I have to run around in the morning and close everything back up because the kids will forget and run the AC in the afternoon, thus wasting $$. It's complicated. For me. For everyone else, they remain oblivious.
Anyway, so I was awake a lot - and while I may have been warm from no A/C, I'm reasonably sure it's just my ovaries throwing off one more salvo across the bow as they limp into full time retirement. I had not had a hot flash for a really long time, but they appear to be back with a vengeance. Waking me up with the urgent need to hop in a cool shower or jump in the pool. Thankfully, I now just say (sometimes over and over) 'it will pass in just a little bit'. They last less than a minute, though it feels like a lot longer. Anyway, they were probably the reason I slept poorly. That, and the 10,000 things running through my brain demanding my attention. And my hips are killing me - just so sore and stiff. I haven't been taking my anti-inflammatory med and it's starting to 'show'. It's time to get cortisone shots into my hip joints again - yes, it hurts as much as you'd think it would. But the relief is instantaneous and it lasts a long time.
The kids were home for their first day of summer vacation. Which involved calling frequently, all phones, (home and their cells) and getting no answer. One was playing drums. The other slept until noon. And was 'pissy' that I suggested 12 hours of sleep was ENOUGH and perhaps he should get moving. Arrived home to find 'stuff' everywhere. So we will be having a discussion when they return. One is spending the night elsewhere. The other, we're expecting home though who knows? Have no idea when.
I'm retiring for the evening shortly having decided that attempting to do work when I'm falling asleep is pointless. I'll sleep and get up early and get on it.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Delegates
I am completely lost in this presidential race. On the one hand, I am learning a lot. I am learning how ignorant I am about how our country actually elects the president. I didn't realize some states have a 'caucus' to decide who to nominate. And I also didn't know or have any understanding of (still, now that I DO know) what in the heck the 'super delegates' are. It's really got me lost. What happened to the good old days when people voted, and within a reasonable amount of time, it was obvious who was the delegate? It was just obvious.
Now, it's mired in controversy and angst and is splitting our party. For a Democrat, like me, it really is about having a Democrat in office. At this point, I don't particularly care which one - as long as it's not a Republican (no offense, my conservative friends and family). But we still seem so far away from even knowing who will go up against the Republican candidate - and it's JUNE today. Shouldn't we know by now? Seems like we should.
I know Hilary wants to win - but honestly, I think it would be far better for the party for her to just step aside. And as I write that, I recall hearing that she does have the most 'votes'. Which then leads me back to 'so why isn't the voting process 'enough' '. And I'm back to being totally lost again.
Yesterday, I got a call on my cell around 10AM from the lovely Bug - who was heading to Tracy to have some work done on the new car they bought out here a week or so ago. I left work for a 'break' and picked them up at the dealer and we headed to Starbucks. I was going to take them to lunch but they'd just eaten a huge breakfast - so we sat at Starbucks and chatted. It was great fun and so good for me to get to spend time with her hubby. The few times I've met him, he's been involved in other stuff - but he was pleasant company and we had a nice time chatting. It was great to see her - and great to take a break. I picked up a Subway sandwich on the way back to the office and worked the rest of the afternoon.
I also worked today - though I did return home for a brief 'nap'. One hour, fifteen minutes. Not as 'cat nap' short as I'd hoped but I am really tired and once I hit the pillow, I was out like a light.
I will do some more 'work' when I finish this post. And when I wake up early in the AM. And all day tomorrow and the days that follow, including bringing stuff home every evening. Still tons to do. I was talking to another fellow CBO who was also completely panicked - and she's at the same 'place' I am. Only then she revealed that her Board meeting is a week later than mine - so that sent me into an even deeper panic. But it's OK. It will all get done.
The boys have started summer break with sleepovers (both of them) and naps (B.). H. used some of his birthday money to order an air soft gun for the battles that will rage with his friends shortly. It came with extra 'ammo' (small, plastic balls) and protective eye wear. Good investment.
The pool is considerably cooler (low 70s) thanks to some coolish, windy weather. It's a great thing since we haven't had to turn on the air much - just open some doors and windows and keep fans on. It's a pleasant 78 degrees in here and that's manageable. Wouldn't feel comfortable if I were mopping floors or stuff like that - but I'm not, so it's fine.
We gave out allowances this afternoon and gave B. a raise. He does more chores than H. and most certainly does them more cheerily (which doesn't mean he smiles or anything - but in comparison to the responses of his angst filled brother, he's s gem) and more quickly with less constant reminding than his brother. He was very surprised and I said 'if you take on even more responsibility and do that as well, you'll be eligible for another increase in 6 months'. Kind of like a merit pay system. We'll see how it goes.
We await the 'final' report cards and already know it is not good for either. I won't go into it here - I mean, what is there to say? It saddens me that they are not more focused and driven -BOTH their parents certainly were. But they are slogging through. Always promising to do better. And yet, I know they won't. B. said he can read his entire summer project book (they both have required reading and project assignments from school during the summer) in a weekend - a clear indication that he has no intention of 'turning over a new leaf' over the summer. He'll do what he always does - as little effort as humanly possible while hoping for straight A's. Which of course, never happen. No surprise there.
H. came in this morning scolding J. for not telling him the TOP of the waffle iron was HOT - and he put his hand on it and burned it (slightly - very slightly. Hasn't uttered another word about it since it happened). THAT is reflective of how they think - they DON'T. No logic. No 'hey, it's two hot plates of metal with a hinge - I wonder if the top is hot, too'. DUH. I said 'oh, come on, H., use your head!'. That is a complete indication of what it's like around here. They are just helpless. I am seriously doubting my parenting abilities.
When I took Bug and her hubby to Starbucks, he had a quad mocha. I'm not a big fan of mocha's - but a quad skinny vanilla latte is something I can totally picture - and I see many of those in my future this week. Including the one I might go get around 4PM to get me to stay vertical until 11ish. And be able to wake up at 4:30AM again the next day.
Dinner is in the oven - roasted potatoes and a Costco roasted chicken. With salad. Yummy.
Have a great week!
Now, it's mired in controversy and angst and is splitting our party. For a Democrat, like me, it really is about having a Democrat in office. At this point, I don't particularly care which one - as long as it's not a Republican (no offense, my conservative friends and family). But we still seem so far away from even knowing who will go up against the Republican candidate - and it's JUNE today. Shouldn't we know by now? Seems like we should.
I know Hilary wants to win - but honestly, I think it would be far better for the party for her to just step aside. And as I write that, I recall hearing that she does have the most 'votes'. Which then leads me back to 'so why isn't the voting process 'enough' '. And I'm back to being totally lost again.
Yesterday, I got a call on my cell around 10AM from the lovely Bug - who was heading to Tracy to have some work done on the new car they bought out here a week or so ago. I left work for a 'break' and picked them up at the dealer and we headed to Starbucks. I was going to take them to lunch but they'd just eaten a huge breakfast - so we sat at Starbucks and chatted. It was great fun and so good for me to get to spend time with her hubby. The few times I've met him, he's been involved in other stuff - but he was pleasant company and we had a nice time chatting. It was great to see her - and great to take a break. I picked up a Subway sandwich on the way back to the office and worked the rest of the afternoon.
I also worked today - though I did return home for a brief 'nap'. One hour, fifteen minutes. Not as 'cat nap' short as I'd hoped but I am really tired and once I hit the pillow, I was out like a light.
I will do some more 'work' when I finish this post. And when I wake up early in the AM. And all day tomorrow and the days that follow, including bringing stuff home every evening. Still tons to do. I was talking to another fellow CBO who was also completely panicked - and she's at the same 'place' I am. Only then she revealed that her Board meeting is a week later than mine - so that sent me into an even deeper panic. But it's OK. It will all get done.
The boys have started summer break with sleepovers (both of them) and naps (B.). H. used some of his birthday money to order an air soft gun for the battles that will rage with his friends shortly. It came with extra 'ammo' (small, plastic balls) and protective eye wear. Good investment.
The pool is considerably cooler (low 70s) thanks to some coolish, windy weather. It's a great thing since we haven't had to turn on the air much - just open some doors and windows and keep fans on. It's a pleasant 78 degrees in here and that's manageable. Wouldn't feel comfortable if I were mopping floors or stuff like that - but I'm not, so it's fine.
We gave out allowances this afternoon and gave B. a raise. He does more chores than H. and most certainly does them more cheerily (which doesn't mean he smiles or anything - but in comparison to the responses of his angst filled brother, he's s gem) and more quickly with less constant reminding than his brother. He was very surprised and I said 'if you take on even more responsibility and do that as well, you'll be eligible for another increase in 6 months'. Kind of like a merit pay system. We'll see how it goes.
We await the 'final' report cards and already know it is not good for either. I won't go into it here - I mean, what is there to say? It saddens me that they are not more focused and driven -BOTH their parents certainly were. But they are slogging through. Always promising to do better. And yet, I know they won't. B. said he can read his entire summer project book (they both have required reading and project assignments from school during the summer) in a weekend - a clear indication that he has no intention of 'turning over a new leaf' over the summer. He'll do what he always does - as little effort as humanly possible while hoping for straight A's. Which of course, never happen. No surprise there.
H. came in this morning scolding J. for not telling him the TOP of the waffle iron was HOT - and he put his hand on it and burned it (slightly - very slightly. Hasn't uttered another word about it since it happened). THAT is reflective of how they think - they DON'T. No logic. No 'hey, it's two hot plates of metal with a hinge - I wonder if the top is hot, too'. DUH. I said 'oh, come on, H., use your head!'. That is a complete indication of what it's like around here. They are just helpless. I am seriously doubting my parenting abilities.
When I took Bug and her hubby to Starbucks, he had a quad mocha. I'm not a big fan of mocha's - but a quad skinny vanilla latte is something I can totally picture - and I see many of those in my future this week. Including the one I might go get around 4PM to get me to stay vertical until 11ish. And be able to wake up at 4:30AM again the next day.
Dinner is in the oven - roasted potatoes and a Costco roasted chicken. With salad. Yummy.
Have a great week!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Sex
Now that I have your attention.....
I made it to the 3:10 showing of Sex and the City - and it was fantastic! I loved every single minute of it - and it's long at 148 minutes. I won't spill any secrets except this one - and I tell you this only because it doesn't affect the story and it might help you enjoy the movie more: no one dies.
I spent most of the movie waiting for the 'sad' part - the one that's been hinted about in the press. But I can assure you there is no death. So just sit back and enjoy the movie. It was terrific. I know I loved it so much because I love Sarah Jessica Parker and I love the show. If you've never watched the show, I don't think you'll be as 'invested' in the characters - and loving them is why it's so great. But it's an enjoyable story even if you have never seen the show.
I am officially graduated from my CBO class and have my certificate of completion. 206 hours of instruction over 18 months. It was a great program and I was very, VERY fortunate to be in the first cohort group. Our group was fantastic! and I've made friends and a lot of contacts that have already helped me so much.
I am working all weekend and while I am completely fine with it, it's Friday evening, I'm tired and wishing I didn't 'have to'. But, I do. So I'm not going to complain about it - I'm going to sleep in until I wake up on my own and get up and go in. Won't linger too long at home 'cuz that just makes 'working on the weekend' that much harder. Another couple weeks of this and we'll I'll be on the down hill slope towards a couple weeks off. I am looking forward to those weeks a lot.
The kids are officially out of school - they are out and about, celebrating the end. H. survived his freshman year and B. is now officially a senior. Yikes. We have no plans - just enjoying the pool and staying home. Gas is over $4/gallon now and even with the hybrid, we're not doing a lot of driving unless we have to.
This is a short, boring post but I'm tired and don't have much new to report. I hope you have a great weekend. I'll be working non-stop. Back next week with an update on how far I got on the giant things I have to get ready for our next Board meeting.
I made it to the 3:10 showing of Sex and the City - and it was fantastic! I loved every single minute of it - and it's long at 148 minutes. I won't spill any secrets except this one - and I tell you this only because it doesn't affect the story and it might help you enjoy the movie more: no one dies.
I spent most of the movie waiting for the 'sad' part - the one that's been hinted about in the press. But I can assure you there is no death. So just sit back and enjoy the movie. It was terrific. I know I loved it so much because I love Sarah Jessica Parker and I love the show. If you've never watched the show, I don't think you'll be as 'invested' in the characters - and loving them is why it's so great. But it's an enjoyable story even if you have never seen the show.
I am officially graduated from my CBO class and have my certificate of completion. 206 hours of instruction over 18 months. It was a great program and I was very, VERY fortunate to be in the first cohort group. Our group was fantastic! and I've made friends and a lot of contacts that have already helped me so much.
I am working all weekend and while I am completely fine with it, it's Friday evening, I'm tired and wishing I didn't 'have to'. But, I do. So I'm not going to complain about it - I'm going to sleep in until I wake up on my own and get up and go in. Won't linger too long at home 'cuz that just makes 'working on the weekend' that much harder. Another couple weeks of this and we'll I'll be on the down hill slope towards a couple weeks off. I am looking forward to those weeks a lot.
The kids are officially out of school - they are out and about, celebrating the end. H. survived his freshman year and B. is now officially a senior. Yikes. We have no plans - just enjoying the pool and staying home. Gas is over $4/gallon now and even with the hybrid, we're not doing a lot of driving unless we have to.
This is a short, boring post but I'm tired and don't have much new to report. I hope you have a great weekend. I'll be working non-stop. Back next week with an update on how far I got on the giant things I have to get ready for our next Board meeting.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Flummoxed
Defined as: confused.
I arrive home with a quandary. It's a silly thing. And end of the day 'light bulb' thing - and it is so small and inconsequential, it's ridiculous for me to give it any thought. Allow it to impact my day in any way. And yet, it has flummoxed me. Completely. For how it affects me. For why it exists. It continues, and continues, and continues - and I think 'it will never end'. And I don't want it to 'never end'. It has to end.
People are so strange. Let's just leave it at that, shall we?
OK - on to more interesting things.
Our modem broke yesterday and we had no internet for an evening. It was actually a good thing because I got a couple 'chore' things off my list - FINALLY sewed my Lions patch on my vest. It's been 5 months. Made a club visit in Liver more today to finish my Proud Lion requirements so getting that vest 'wearable' was important. Nothing like last minute.
We were worried because the kids use the internet a lot for homework, studying, etc. - and it's finals week. One of H's finals was ONLY an internet assignment to research some things. But thankfully, they didn't need it. So we told them it was broken and we ordered a new modem - which is true. But we didn't tell them that J. got out the really old, non-wireless modem and it works. So he and I have internet. The kids still think it's broken. And the really 'funny' part of this is (and to me, this illustrates their lack of attention to detail perfectly) is that B. just sat here with me for a bit, while I went from page to page on the internet and he never figured out 'hey, why is the internet working for Mom but not for us'? Never mentioned it. Doesn't get it. [And when he reads this at some point in the future, we apologize. But it's finals week and a little less time on My Space is good for your grades. So forgive us. The new modem will be here shortly and as soon as it's here, we'll install it and you'll be back up and running.]
I rescued two small plants from my office that people had tossed in the trash. They are still 'alive' though they need re-potting and a steady supply of water and food. I just planted them in two patio pots with other 'stuff'. Just found room and stuck them in. If they survive, great. If they don't, that's OK too. But I hope they will make it. They were both still completely 'green' - just dead blossoms. The pitiful pots they were in didn't allow for any water to be absorbed - so just getting them into real dirt is half the battle.
My last CBO class is Friday morning and I'm taking part of the afternoon 'off' to go see the Sex and the City movie. Can't wait! I love that show and have really been looking forward to a bucket of popcorn, some Milk Duds and Carrie Bradshaw and her friends. Since I'm working both days of the weekend, I could use a little R&R.
That's it for now. Need to get moving a bit with my 'evening routine' (such as it is) and then head up to bed. Need to be in as early as humanly possible tomorrow - aiming for 5. Will be happy with 5:30 or 6. Have meetings throughout the day and have a gazillion things to do to prepare for them - plus the never ending to-do list.
On a good note, I have the weeks of June 23rd and June 30th blocked off as vacation. I'm determined those dates will 'stick' and I'll just be home for some R&R. Maybe go to Jackson for a day. Might head to Monterey or Santa Cruz for a couple days with (or without) kids - haven't decided on that. It will be great to just sleep in and veg for a bit - spend some time in the pool, take the kids to the big mall in Modesto, etc. for a change of pace. Meet some friends for lunch (hint, hint).
To my friend J., thanks for listening. I miss you more than words can say but it's so great how I can reach you by phone and you listen and advise and laugh. I needed it. Thanks loads.
To my friend Bug, you'll do great. I know you will. It'll be terrific. Be yourself. And double check your work on the 'exercise'. But it's all going to be fine. I know it.
To my hubby, hang in their, babe. We're on the downhill side to retirement and while it seems like it will be forever, we know from the two boys that have grown up seemingly overnight that it will all go by very quickly. So we just have to hang in there....day by day. Sometimes hour by hour. It'll all be worth it someday when we're spending 3 weeks at the Louvre.
And, finally, to Steven Curtis Chapman and his family - you have been constantly in my prayers all week. There are no words for how deeply sorry I am about Maria. No words. Just know that you are in the thoughts of hundreds of thousands of KLOVE listeners and we all know (and we know you know) that if God brings you to it, He will get you through it. It doesn't change that she is not on this earth anymore - but knowing you are not alone in your grief will hopefully be some comfort.
I arrive home with a quandary. It's a silly thing. And end of the day 'light bulb' thing - and it is so small and inconsequential, it's ridiculous for me to give it any thought. Allow it to impact my day in any way. And yet, it has flummoxed me. Completely. For how it affects me. For why it exists. It continues, and continues, and continues - and I think 'it will never end'. And I don't want it to 'never end'. It has to end.
People are so strange. Let's just leave it at that, shall we?
OK - on to more interesting things.
Our modem broke yesterday and we had no internet for an evening. It was actually a good thing because I got a couple 'chore' things off my list - FINALLY sewed my Lions patch on my vest. It's been 5 months. Made a club visit in Liver more today to finish my Proud Lion requirements so getting that vest 'wearable' was important. Nothing like last minute.
We were worried because the kids use the internet a lot for homework, studying, etc. - and it's finals week. One of H's finals was ONLY an internet assignment to research some things. But thankfully, they didn't need it. So we told them it was broken and we ordered a new modem - which is true. But we didn't tell them that J. got out the really old, non-wireless modem and it works. So he and I have internet. The kids still think it's broken. And the really 'funny' part of this is (and to me, this illustrates their lack of attention to detail perfectly) is that B. just sat here with me for a bit, while I went from page to page on the internet and he never figured out 'hey, why is the internet working for Mom but not for us'? Never mentioned it. Doesn't get it. [And when he reads this at some point in the future, we apologize. But it's finals week and a little less time on My Space is good for your grades. So forgive us. The new modem will be here shortly and as soon as it's here, we'll install it and you'll be back up and running.]
I rescued two small plants from my office that people had tossed in the trash. They are still 'alive' though they need re-potting and a steady supply of water and food. I just planted them in two patio pots with other 'stuff'. Just found room and stuck them in. If they survive, great. If they don't, that's OK too. But I hope they will make it. They were both still completely 'green' - just dead blossoms. The pitiful pots they were in didn't allow for any water to be absorbed - so just getting them into real dirt is half the battle.
My last CBO class is Friday morning and I'm taking part of the afternoon 'off' to go see the Sex and the City movie. Can't wait! I love that show and have really been looking forward to a bucket of popcorn, some Milk Duds and Carrie Bradshaw and her friends. Since I'm working both days of the weekend, I could use a little R&R.
That's it for now. Need to get moving a bit with my 'evening routine' (such as it is) and then head up to bed. Need to be in as early as humanly possible tomorrow - aiming for 5. Will be happy with 5:30 or 6. Have meetings throughout the day and have a gazillion things to do to prepare for them - plus the never ending to-do list.
On a good note, I have the weeks of June 23rd and June 30th blocked off as vacation. I'm determined those dates will 'stick' and I'll just be home for some R&R. Maybe go to Jackson for a day. Might head to Monterey or Santa Cruz for a couple days with (or without) kids - haven't decided on that. It will be great to just sleep in and veg for a bit - spend some time in the pool, take the kids to the big mall in Modesto, etc. for a change of pace. Meet some friends for lunch (hint, hint).
To my friend J., thanks for listening. I miss you more than words can say but it's so great how I can reach you by phone and you listen and advise and laugh. I needed it. Thanks loads.
To my friend Bug, you'll do great. I know you will. It'll be terrific. Be yourself. And double check your work on the 'exercise'. But it's all going to be fine. I know it.
To my hubby, hang in their, babe. We're on the downhill side to retirement and while it seems like it will be forever, we know from the two boys that have grown up seemingly overnight that it will all go by very quickly. So we just have to hang in there....day by day. Sometimes hour by hour. It'll all be worth it someday when we're spending 3 weeks at the Louvre.
And, finally, to Steven Curtis Chapman and his family - you have been constantly in my prayers all week. There are no words for how deeply sorry I am about Maria. No words. Just know that you are in the thoughts of hundreds of thousands of KLOVE listeners and we all know (and we know you know) that if God brings you to it, He will get you through it. It doesn't change that she is not on this earth anymore - but knowing you are not alone in your grief will hopefully be some comfort.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Loot
J. took H. to our mall for a shopping expedition.
H. returned with a pair of bright PURPLE shoes - tennis shoes. Purple with black laces. And two new t-shirts, also with purple in them. J. said 'purple is the new black'. Uh, OK. H. used his gift card for the shoes, suspecting that I might not be so willing to consider those shoes we would pay for. I actually don't care who pays for them as long as they get worn. I'll see how it goes this week - if he wears them. He thinks he's confident enough to ignore comments - and I guess it's possible that they are really cool shoes and friends will be envious.
But it's also possible he's going to get a couple comments and they'll be retired in to the back of the closet - in which case H. will have to pay for the shoes. If he wears them daily as one of his two pairs of shoes, fine, and we'll buy. But if he stops wearing them before they're worn out, they're on him. That's the rule.
He doesn't like the rule - he doesn't like that I monitor and 'keep track' of expenditures and if the usage doesn't justify the expense, it's on him. I've had to do this because HE WILL BUY PURPLE SHOES and then not wear them. He will think he's going to wear them a lot - and we'll see.
The odds are pretty good it'll be OK because there's only five days left of school - and then he'll wear them over the summer. And by the time school starts again in mid-August, it'll be time for new shoes again anyway - he wears them out pretty quickly.
OH, and BIG NEWS FLASH! H. is officially taller than B. It's not something that B. wants to talk about, but it's the truth. H. is taller by a few inches. And he's only 15 and still growing. We noticed yesterday at the party and J. and I both mentioned it yesterday evening. B. said 'yeah, I know'. Guess it's best to leave it at that.
And while I love three day weekends (though this one wasn't, technically, since I worked Saturday and today), I don't like how I'm confused all week. I think tonight is Sunday. It's not, it's Monday. I'm off by a day in my entire 'schedule' - thinking 'oh, I still have five more days to work on [fill in the blank]'. No, I only have four days - some of which are filled up with various meetings. I plan to arrive early and stay late - or at least until they lock the gate - all week. And work next weekend. And the weekend after that. It's just that time of year. Can't be helped. Comes with the job.
I just wish I could keep the days straight after a three day weekend. It's time for 60 Minutes - but it's MONDAY not SUNDAY. Oh, I'm so confused. And, the cleaning ladies come TOMORROW since it's MONDAY, not SUNDAY.
Gotta run! Have a great week, everybody!
H. returned with a pair of bright PURPLE shoes - tennis shoes. Purple with black laces. And two new t-shirts, also with purple in them. J. said 'purple is the new black'. Uh, OK. H. used his gift card for the shoes, suspecting that I might not be so willing to consider those shoes we would pay for. I actually don't care who pays for them as long as they get worn. I'll see how it goes this week - if he wears them. He thinks he's confident enough to ignore comments - and I guess it's possible that they are really cool shoes and friends will be envious.
But it's also possible he's going to get a couple comments and they'll be retired in to the back of the closet - in which case H. will have to pay for the shoes. If he wears them daily as one of his two pairs of shoes, fine, and we'll buy. But if he stops wearing them before they're worn out, they're on him. That's the rule.
He doesn't like the rule - he doesn't like that I monitor and 'keep track' of expenditures and if the usage doesn't justify the expense, it's on him. I've had to do this because HE WILL BUY PURPLE SHOES and then not wear them. He will think he's going to wear them a lot - and we'll see.
The odds are pretty good it'll be OK because there's only five days left of school - and then he'll wear them over the summer. And by the time school starts again in mid-August, it'll be time for new shoes again anyway - he wears them out pretty quickly.
OH, and BIG NEWS FLASH! H. is officially taller than B. It's not something that B. wants to talk about, but it's the truth. H. is taller by a few inches. And he's only 15 and still growing. We noticed yesterday at the party and J. and I both mentioned it yesterday evening. B. said 'yeah, I know'. Guess it's best to leave it at that.
And while I love three day weekends (though this one wasn't, technically, since I worked Saturday and today), I don't like how I'm confused all week. I think tonight is Sunday. It's not, it's Monday. I'm off by a day in my entire 'schedule' - thinking 'oh, I still have five more days to work on [fill in the blank]'. No, I only have four days - some of which are filled up with various meetings. I plan to arrive early and stay late - or at least until they lock the gate - all week. And work next weekend. And the weekend after that. It's just that time of year. Can't be helped. Comes with the job.
I just wish I could keep the days straight after a three day weekend. It's time for 60 Minutes - but it's MONDAY not SUNDAY. Oh, I'm so confused. And, the cleaning ladies come TOMORROW since it's MONDAY, not SUNDAY.
Gotta run! Have a great week, everybody!
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Our cleaning lady D. is here today - she wears earbuds and chats on the phone while she works. She is the third cleaning 'person(s)...
