I'm (finally) changing my blogger address to match the blog name.
www.plannedspontaneity1.blogspot.com
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Reading update
I've checked off three of the books on my list. Go me!
The first was The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling.
It's not a long book because it's a small collection of wizard fairy tales. I read it in about an hour. I can't really tell you why it sat on my shelf so long. There just always seemed to be some other book I was buried in to take a breath and give Beedle my full attention.
As fairy tales go the book pretty much met all my expectations. Short stories with morals, except the intended audience was wizard children and not muggles. (If you are completely lost, then you need to go read all seven Harry Potter books.) I'm glad the book wasn't extra long because I don't think it would have kept my attention if it had been. I would have been easily bored by much more length. But it was nice to dive into the wizarding world again with some new stories. I love re-reading the HP books, but I think I have them memorized at this point.
Up next was Lord John and the Hand of Devils. This book is the third from Diana Gabaldon about a character from the Outlander series. A friend of mine shares my love for the Outlander
series and since she already owned all the Lord John books she loaned them too me.
I have to admit that I struggled through them. If you've read any of the Outlander books you know that Gabaldon is not short winded. At all. She should stick to that strategy. I feel like she rushed the endings of all the Lord John stories because she had a word limit for all of them. The writing just isn't up to her usual standards. I was dissapointed. In one of her many comentaries in this final LJ book she does say there is a fourth book in the works. I'm undecided right now if I'll read it.
Last night I finished up with The Host by Stephenie Meyer.
Meyer is best know for the Twilight series that people are talking about so much these days. I read and loved all of them. Not so much because of Meyer's writing (which leaves much to be desired) but because it's a good story and I've always had a secret obsession with vampire lore. It's a guilty pleasure of mine.
She released The Host (her first adult novel) some time before finishing the fourth book in the Twilight series, Breaking Dawn. I had seen it in bookstores, but never really had much interest in reading it. Then I received it as a gift and it sat on my shelf for nearly a year. I just couldn't bring myself to crack it open. I love supernatural stuff, but I'm not so big on science fiction. Some people might say those two things are interchangeable, but I don't feel that way.
But, about the book. I'm so glad I read it. I was completely shocked at how much I liked it. I even forgot for a minute that I was reading a Stephenie Meyer book. (Until I found a couple of typo's of course. Her editor is atrocious.) I got really involved in the story and the characters. When I was done reading it I was a little sad that it was over; a tale-tell sign that I thoroughly enjoyed a book.
It isn't the next great American novel by any stretch of the imagination, but I was entertained from the beginning. And that's all I can really ask of a book. I read for the love of reading and to give myself a short escape from reality. I got both of those things from this book.
Up next:
The first was The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling.
It's not a long book because it's a small collection of wizard fairy tales. I read it in about an hour. I can't really tell you why it sat on my shelf so long. There just always seemed to be some other book I was buried in to take a breath and give Beedle my full attention.
As fairy tales go the book pretty much met all my expectations. Short stories with morals, except the intended audience was wizard children and not muggles. (If you are completely lost, then you need to go read all seven Harry Potter books.) I'm glad the book wasn't extra long because I don't think it would have kept my attention if it had been. I would have been easily bored by much more length. But it was nice to dive into the wizarding world again with some new stories. I love re-reading the HP books, but I think I have them memorized at this point.
Up next was Lord John and the Hand of Devils. This book is the third from Diana Gabaldon about a character from the Outlander series. A friend of mine shares my love for the Outlander
series and since she already owned all the Lord John books she loaned them too me.I have to admit that I struggled through them. If you've read any of the Outlander books you know that Gabaldon is not short winded. At all. She should stick to that strategy. I feel like she rushed the endings of all the Lord John stories because she had a word limit for all of them. The writing just isn't up to her usual standards. I was dissapointed. In one of her many comentaries in this final LJ book she does say there is a fourth book in the works. I'm undecided right now if I'll read it.
Last night I finished up with The Host by Stephenie Meyer.Meyer is best know for the Twilight series that people are talking about so much these days. I read and loved all of them. Not so much because of Meyer's writing (which leaves much to be desired) but because it's a good story and I've always had a secret obsession with vampire lore. It's a guilty pleasure of mine.
She released The Host (her first adult novel) some time before finishing the fourth book in the Twilight series, Breaking Dawn. I had seen it in bookstores, but never really had much interest in reading it. Then I received it as a gift and it sat on my shelf for nearly a year. I just couldn't bring myself to crack it open. I love supernatural stuff, but I'm not so big on science fiction. Some people might say those two things are interchangeable, but I don't feel that way.
But, about the book. I'm so glad I read it. I was completely shocked at how much I liked it. I even forgot for a minute that I was reading a Stephenie Meyer book. (Until I found a couple of typo's of course. Her editor is atrocious.) I got really involved in the story and the characters. When I was done reading it I was a little sad that it was over; a tale-tell sign that I thoroughly enjoyed a book.
It isn't the next great American novel by any stretch of the imagination, but I was entertained from the beginning. And that's all I can really ask of a book. I read for the love of reading and to give myself a short escape from reality. I got both of those things from this book.
Up next:
The Fabulous Girl's Guide to Decorum by Kim Izzo and Ceri Marsh
&
Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
&
Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
Friday, January 8, 2010
Project 365, week 1
I'm renaming Photogenic Friday for the year. It just makes more sense.
Here it is, my week in pictures.
January 5
Time together
January 6
Chipped
Stoked
January 7
Dwindling
January 8
I don't know what you're talking about
Here it is, my week in pictures.
January 2
Frozen
January 3
Rough night
Goodbye for another year
January 4
But we love the tree
Frozen
January 3Rough night
Goodbye for another year
January 4But we love the tree
January 5Time together
January 6Chipped
Stoked
January 7Dwindling
January 8I don't know what you're talking about
*None of these photos have been edited at all. Right now that is beyond my scope of expertise. I'll continue to play around in photoshop and hopefully soon my confidence with the program will be such that I can enhance my photos. Any advice is welcome.*
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Milton vs The Broom, take 2
The last time I posted a video of Milton with a broom it was a full sized broom.
Since then he has decided that he's a little afraid of the big broom and only attacks it for a second before running away and cowering in a corner somewhere.
Recently he has been taking out his broom aggressions on the small broom that came with our dust pan.
The following video demonstrates his hatred of said broom.
Notice how, in the middle of the attack, he runs away and turns his back on the broom. The purpose of this is to give the broom a false sense of security in order to attack it when it puts its guard down. A sneak attack, so to speak.
Please forgive the lack of sound. I was trying to operate the camera and the broom and realized a little belatedly that my finger was over the microphone.
I think the best part of all this is that Milton clearly thinks the broom comes alive on its own. He has no idea that I'm the one making it move.
I know this for sure because when I put the broom away he lets it sit for a second before walking up to it and giving it another couple good whacks as if to say, "And stay down!"
What did I do for entertainment before these bunnies? I don't remember.
Since then he has decided that he's a little afraid of the big broom and only attacks it for a second before running away and cowering in a corner somewhere.
Recently he has been taking out his broom aggressions on the small broom that came with our dust pan.
The following video demonstrates his hatred of said broom.
Notice how, in the middle of the attack, he runs away and turns his back on the broom. The purpose of this is to give the broom a false sense of security in order to attack it when it puts its guard down. A sneak attack, so to speak.
Please forgive the lack of sound. I was trying to operate the camera and the broom and realized a little belatedly that my finger was over the microphone.
I think the best part of all this is that Milton clearly thinks the broom comes alive on its own. He has no idea that I'm the one making it move.
I know this for sure because when I put the broom away he lets it sit for a second before walking up to it and giving it another couple good whacks as if to say, "And stay down!"
What did I do for entertainment before these bunnies? I don't remember.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
About my lack of a post today...
I have this whole post written about Milton and how he likes to chase the dust broom.
It includes a video that has been processing since 1:30 this afternoon. Nine hours. It's longer than my usual video, so I'm going to give it until I go to bed tonight and if it doesn't work I'll be re-filming because Milton is always up for attacking the broom.
Also, I completely flaked on part of my new year's resolution today. If you look to your left at my book list you'll see that it grew by three. I had lunch with my mom and grandmother today and while I was waiting on them I stopped at the bookstore. Big mistake! Their clearance stack had recently been replenished and I just couldn't pass up the three and four dollar price tags. I got all three books for ten bucks. No book lover would fault me for that.
Happy Wednesday! (What's left of it)
It includes a video that has been processing since 1:30 this afternoon. Nine hours. It's longer than my usual video, so I'm going to give it until I go to bed tonight and if it doesn't work I'll be re-filming because Milton is always up for attacking the broom.
Also, I completely flaked on part of my new year's resolution today. If you look to your left at my book list you'll see that it grew by three. I had lunch with my mom and grandmother today and while I was waiting on them I stopped at the bookstore. Big mistake! Their clearance stack had recently been replenished and I just couldn't pass up the three and four dollar price tags. I got all three books for ten bucks. No book lover would fault me for that.
Happy Wednesday! (What's left of it)
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Why four wheel drive is necessary
This past Saturday started like any other day. Andy got up and went to work. I slept in.
I was awakened by the land lord calling to tell me that the water was out (again) because the pump had frozen in the single digit temps and they were doing their best to fix it.
I didn't have nearly as bad an attitude about it as I did last time because it wasn't a holiday and I didn't need to go anywhere. Plus, we still had power and heat. So, no big deal, I'd wait it out.
About an our after that first phone call I got another one. From a very unexpected person.
My little cousin, Ashley.
This is how the conversation went:
Me: Hello.
Ash: Hey Joanna, it's Ashley (I knew that already thanks to caller ID). My mom wanted me to call you because me and my friends drove up to (insert high altitude mountain name here) last night. It was snowing really fine snow when we got here, but we didn't think it would do anything and now we're snowed in because we brought my car (a Scion). Can you help us? My classes start on Monday. I really need to get off this mountain.
Me: ::long pause::
So many questions ran through my mind. Like: Did you check the weather before you came? Why did you bring your car? Did you check the weather before you came? Why didn't you just ask to stay with me? Did you check the weather before you came?
I did, eventually, ask all my questions, but right then I just told her I needed to call Andy to see if he could get off work to rescue her and her dumb ass friends. I think she told me she loved me about ten times (I knew that already) and I also think she was on the verge of a major breakdown, something I understand completely. We do share bloodlines. A little compassion and understanding goes a long way in such situations.
So, after many phone calls back and forth, Andy was fortunately slow enough at work to get a couple hours off with our friend Tyler who drives a two wheel drive car up here and is used to driving in the snow. Off we went to rescue them.
Let me interject here that three of these kids go to college up here and even if Ashley (who goes to college in South Carolina) didn't have enough forethought to check the weather, they certainly should have. Unless of course they were complete morons; something they affirmed for me about five minutes after I met them. What does this mean for the future of our country?
We did successfully pull them up and over the mountain. And there were two front wheel drive cars there, so we pulled the other one out too. Because The Hulk is a beast and totally awesome.
My Uncle called and thanked Andy and I over and over for sacrificing our Saturday and saving his little goofball. To which I replied that it was much more entertaining than what I had originally planned for that day, which was taking down the Christmas decorations.
Plus, by the time we got up there the sun had come out and the view was breathtaking. So, all-in-all a good way to spend a Saturday.
I was awakened by the land lord calling to tell me that the water was out (again) because the pump had frozen in the single digit temps and they were doing their best to fix it.
I didn't have nearly as bad an attitude about it as I did last time because it wasn't a holiday and I didn't need to go anywhere. Plus, we still had power and heat. So, no big deal, I'd wait it out.About an our after that first phone call I got another one. From a very unexpected person.
My little cousin, Ashley.
This is how the conversation went:
Me: Hello.
Ash: Hey Joanna, it's Ashley (I knew that already thanks to caller ID). My mom wanted me to call you because me and my friends drove up to (insert high altitude mountain name here) last night. It was snowing really fine snow when we got here, but we didn't think it would do anything and now we're snowed in because we brought my car (a Scion). Can you help us? My classes start on Monday. I really need to get off this mountain.
Me: ::long pause::
So many questions ran through my mind. Like: Did you check the weather before you came? Why did you bring your car? Did you check the weather before you came? Why didn't you just ask to stay with me? Did you check the weather before you came?
I did, eventually, ask all my questions, but right then I just told her I needed to call Andy to see if he could get off work to rescue her and her dumb ass friends. I think she told me she loved me about ten times (I knew that already) and I also think she was on the verge of a major breakdown, something I understand completely. We do share bloodlines. A little compassion and understanding goes a long way in such situations.
So, after many phone calls back and forth, Andy was fortunately slow enough at work to get a couple hours off with our friend Tyler who drives a two wheel drive car up here and is used to driving in the snow. Off we went to rescue them.
Let me interject here that three of these kids go to college up here and even if Ashley (who goes to college in South Carolina) didn't have enough forethought to check the weather, they certainly should have. Unless of course they were complete morons; something they affirmed for me about five minutes after I met them. What does this mean for the future of our country?
We did successfully pull them up and over the mountain. And there were two front wheel drive cars there, so we pulled the other one out too. Because The Hulk is a beast and totally awesome.
My Uncle called and thanked Andy and I over and over for sacrificing our Saturday and saving his little goofball. To which I replied that it was much more entertaining than what I had originally planned for that day, which was taking down the Christmas decorations.
Plus, by the time we got up there the sun had come out and the view was breathtaking. So, all-in-all a good way to spend a Saturday.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Perfect Potato Soup
The highest forecasted temperature on any given day this week is 20.
Twenty degrees. And that isn't until Wednesday. This past weekend didn't see a temp higher than 15 and that only lasted about thirty seconds in the middle of the day.
The best thing you can do during these extreme lows is to go outside as little as possible. And if you do go out make sure you cover up all of you epidermis. I do mean all. Get some goggles if you still need to see, but cover it all up.
After shivering under a mountain of blankets all day nothing seems to warm my body and soul more than a big ole pot of soup.
I love soup, but Andy doesn't think it qualifies as a meal so I don't make soup often and when I do it has to be hearty. Because Andy certainly doesn't look like it, but he can put away some food, and if I don't fill him up at dinner he'll spend the rest of the evening pilfering in the kitchen.
This potato soup has served us well for about two years. I think the original recipe came for a recipe website, but I don't have that documented and I've tweeked it so much I feel comfortable calling it my own. It's very basic, so it is perfect for dressing up and making it your perfect potato soup. Have fun with it!
*This recipe is not vegetarian, but can easily be modified to make it so. Replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and leave out the bacon.
Twenty degrees. And that isn't until Wednesday. This past weekend didn't see a temp higher than 15 and that only lasted about thirty seconds in the middle of the day.
The best thing you can do during these extreme lows is to go outside as little as possible. And if you do go out make sure you cover up all of you epidermis. I do mean all. Get some goggles if you still need to see, but cover it all up.
After shivering under a mountain of blankets all day nothing seems to warm my body and soul more than a big ole pot of soup.
I love soup, but Andy doesn't think it qualifies as a meal so I don't make soup often and when I do it has to be hearty. Because Andy certainly doesn't look like it, but he can put away some food, and if I don't fill him up at dinner he'll spend the rest of the evening pilfering in the kitchen.
This potato soup has served us well for about two years. I think the original recipe came for a recipe website, but I don't have that documented and I've tweeked it so much I feel comfortable calling it my own. It's very basic, so it is perfect for dressing up and making it your perfect potato soup. Have fun with it!
*This recipe is not vegetarian, but can easily be modified to make it so. Replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and leave out the bacon.
Perfect Potato Soup (for cold, indulgent days)
6-8 russett potatoes, peeled & cut into pieces
1/2 medium onion, diced
1 can chicken stock (if you're using homemade use about 2 cups)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
6-8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Salt & pepper to taste
Cheddar cheese
In a large pot combine potatoes, onion, chicken stock, heavy cream and water. Bring to a boil over med-hi heat and cook until potatoes are soft.
Reduce heat to medium and add the milk, sour cream, butter and crumbled bacon (you can also add in another cup of water if you want a little more liquid). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until the potatoes start to break down and soup thickens.
You can leave the pot alone and let the magic happen while you do something else, or, if you're in a hurry to eat (like I always am) you can help the process along by "mashing the potatoes." I like to use a whisk. It's not as aggressive as a potato masher and this soup runs a fine line between soupy mashed potatoes and hearty potato soup. When it's done you want some potato chunks left.
Serve with shredded cheddar on top and a cheddar biscuit (recipe below) on the side. Comfort food at it's finest!
If you have any leftovers that need to be reheated the next day you might want to add a little milk or chicken stock if you have it. The soup tends to thicken when it sits.
Cheddar Biscuits (recipe from kraftfoods.com)
2 1/4 cups dry all-purpose baking mix for biscuits
1/2 cup shredded cheddar
2 tbs chopped fresh herbs (optional, I use parsley if I have it)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbs dijon mustard
1/3 cup milk
Preheat oven to 425
In a large bowl mix together baking mix, cheese and herbs.
In another bowl, mix sour cream, mustard and milk. Pour into cheese mixture and combine.
Place dough on lightly floured surface and kneed about 10 times.
Cut into biscuits and bake 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Enjoy!
6-8 russett potatoes, peeled & cut into pieces
1/2 medium onion, diced
1 can chicken stock (if you're using homemade use about 2 cups)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
6-8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Salt & pepper to taste
Cheddar cheese
In a large pot combine potatoes, onion, chicken stock, heavy cream and water. Bring to a boil over med-hi heat and cook until potatoes are soft.
Reduce heat to medium and add the milk, sour cream, butter and crumbled bacon (you can also add in another cup of water if you want a little more liquid). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until the potatoes start to break down and soup thickens.You can leave the pot alone and let the magic happen while you do something else, or, if you're in a hurry to eat (like I always am) you can help the process along by "mashing the potatoes." I like to use a whisk. It's not as aggressive as a potato masher and this soup runs a fine line between soupy mashed potatoes and hearty potato soup. When it's done you want some potato chunks left.
Serve with shredded cheddar on top and a cheddar biscuit (recipe below) on the side. Comfort food at it's finest!
If you have any leftovers that need to be reheated the next day you might want to add a little milk or chicken stock if you have it. The soup tends to thicken when it sits.Cheddar Biscuits (recipe from kraftfoods.com)
2 1/4 cups dry all-purpose baking mix for biscuits
1/2 cup shredded cheddar
2 tbs chopped fresh herbs (optional, I use parsley if I have it)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbs dijon mustard
1/3 cup milk
Preheat oven to 425
In a large bowl mix together baking mix, cheese and herbs.
In another bowl, mix sour cream, mustard and milk. Pour into cheese mixture and combine.
Place dough on lightly floured surface and kneed about 10 times.
Cut into biscuits and bake 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Enjoy!
Friday, January 1, 2010
Photogenic Friday: Back to Basics
Andy is the real photographer in this family. It was part of his major in college and, though he isn't usually artistic, he does have a talent for photography as an art form.
I, on the other hand, have always been artistic and creative, but never managed to find a camera useful in terms of an artistic instrument.
It seems like everyone is taking gorgeous pictures these days. I'm being left in the photographic dust. For a while now I've wanted to remedy that situation.
Which is one of my major reasons for joining Project 365.
Having an eye for photography (and patience, not something I'm famous for) is a major part of taking beautiful pictures. The right equipment, however, also makes a big impact on the outcome of the photographs a person takes.
Right now I take all of my photos with a Nikon Coolpix point and shoot. It has served me well for the nearly two years I've owned it. But I'm afraid it doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles. The camera is good for snapshots and not much else. Which is exactly why I bought it. I could take it out of the box and start using it, instructions be damned.
But now I have this entire year looming in front of me armed with a tiny point and shoot that is beginning to have some hitches in its get along.
This morning, while we were making breakfast, I was telling Andy about Project 365 and that I'd like to have a slightly more advanced camera in my arsenal. Nothing too major, because fancy cameras are expensive and also because dropping a lot of cash on something that could be a passing whim is irresponsible. Not to mention that we don't have the kind of cash that would need to be dropped.
So I told him that for my birthday I'd like to have something in between the coolpix and a "bells and whistles" camera. (You see how camera illiterate I am? I don't even know what they're called. DSLR sounds right, but what does that even mean?) I have about three months until then and I think I can manage with my small camera until then.
Then Andy suggested that I use our Nikon film camera that he used in his photography class.
Personally I think that suggestion is a little stroke of genius. The camera is complicated enough that I can learn something and simple enough that I can still use it. Also, there is something exciting about using a film camera. Every time you have a roll developped it's a surprise. In this digital age I think film cameras have gotten a bad reputation.
So here it is, the first photo of Project 365.
I took it with the coolpix, obviously. I took about 20 photos to get this one and I'm not real pleased with it. Sometimes the coolpix can be difficult to use and even a novice like myself sees all its shortcomings.
I have a lot to learn, but that's kind of the point, isn't it?
***********************************************************************************
I said yesterday that I wasn't sure which blog I would use to document my Project 365 journey, but now I know. Photogenic Friday is already a tradition on this blog, so on Fridays I will post the previous week's photos. It just makes sense.
But that's not all.
Who can only take one photo? If I'm going to go to the trouble of hauling a camera with me every day I'm going to take more than one picture when I turn it on.
Go here to see what else I have in store for 2010.
I, on the other hand, have always been artistic and creative, but never managed to find a camera useful in terms of an artistic instrument.
It seems like everyone is taking gorgeous pictures these days. I'm being left in the photographic dust. For a while now I've wanted to remedy that situation.
Which is one of my major reasons for joining Project 365.
Having an eye for photography (and patience, not something I'm famous for) is a major part of taking beautiful pictures. The right equipment, however, also makes a big impact on the outcome of the photographs a person takes.
Right now I take all of my photos with a Nikon Coolpix point and shoot. It has served me well for the nearly two years I've owned it. But I'm afraid it doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles. The camera is good for snapshots and not much else. Which is exactly why I bought it. I could take it out of the box and start using it, instructions be damned.
But now I have this entire year looming in front of me armed with a tiny point and shoot that is beginning to have some hitches in its get along.
This morning, while we were making breakfast, I was telling Andy about Project 365 and that I'd like to have a slightly more advanced camera in my arsenal. Nothing too major, because fancy cameras are expensive and also because dropping a lot of cash on something that could be a passing whim is irresponsible. Not to mention that we don't have the kind of cash that would need to be dropped.
So I told him that for my birthday I'd like to have something in between the coolpix and a "bells and whistles" camera. (You see how camera illiterate I am? I don't even know what they're called. DSLR sounds right, but what does that even mean?) I have about three months until then and I think I can manage with my small camera until then.
Then Andy suggested that I use our Nikon film camera that he used in his photography class.
Personally I think that suggestion is a little stroke of genius. The camera is complicated enough that I can learn something and simple enough that I can still use it. Also, there is something exciting about using a film camera. Every time you have a roll developped it's a surprise. In this digital age I think film cameras have gotten a bad reputation.
So here it is, the first photo of Project 365.
I took it with the coolpix, obviously. I took about 20 photos to get this one and I'm not real pleased with it. Sometimes the coolpix can be difficult to use and even a novice like myself sees all its shortcomings.
I have a lot to learn, but that's kind of the point, isn't it?
***********************************************************************************
I said yesterday that I wasn't sure which blog I would use to document my Project 365 journey, but now I know. Photogenic Friday is already a tradition on this blog, so on Fridays I will post the previous week's photos. It just makes sense.
But that's not all.
Who can only take one photo? If I'm going to go to the trouble of hauling a camera with me every day I'm going to take more than one picture when I turn it on.
Go here to see what else I have in store for 2010.
The plague I mean, resolutions...
So how is 2010 looking so far to all of you?
I certainly hope everyone has avoided disaster to this point - especially since it's only the first day.
We're just getting started.
Anyone care to share their resolutions with me? Losing weight? Building muscle? Cleaning out your closet? Saving money?
Can you tell I'm stalling?
Making resolutions has never really been something I've done. Mostly because I feel like I'm setting myself up for failure, and that's no way to start out the new year. Am I right?
Last year I resolved to be grateful for something every day. More specifically I joined in on 365 days of grace in small things where the challenge is to blog daily about 5 things you are grateful for. This is something that has had a profound effect of my life this last year; something I will talk about a bit more later in the month. I did manage to stick with it, but a few things got in my way and my 365 posts will not be done until January 19th.
Given the success of this 365 day resolution I've decided to do another. I'm jumping on the bandwagon with a fellow blogger and attempting to do Project 365 which challenges you to take at least one photo a day for a year. That doesn't sound too difficult does it? One would think not, but I can see how, on those boring days, it might take some creativity to take a different photo than the one you took the day before.
Right now I have a second blog dedicated to my current 365 challenge. I haven't yet decided if I will continue using it as a 365 blog or if I'll let it stand as a gratitude blog and post my Project 365 photos here. I'm undecided, but I won't be posting daily for this project. I will definitley take a photo every day, but there might just be one post a week dedicated to the project. It will make life easier for me and hopefully keep this photo thing from seeming like a chore.
Either way, I'll post my first photo by the end of today. Stay tuned.
On to resolution number 2.
Did I just say 2? I'm pretty sure I did. Holy cow!
I am an avid reader. Reading is sexy and all that jazz.
As hobbies go this is my favorite and certainly the longest running.
I don't do book reviews on here because I'm bad at them. I have a hard time keeping it short and sweet and not spoiling things. Just ask my English lit professor that asked me to write a four page paper synopsizing Emma by Jane Austen. My paper was at least double that.
Another love if mine is bookstores and new book smell. This can sometimes be a problem. Which brings me to my next resolution.
For a few years now I've been collecting books on my shelf that I either a) mean to read, b) start to read but don't finish or c) receive as gifts and don't get around to.
So, I am resolving to read all the book in my "to be read" pile before I allow myself to buy another book. Gasp!
Let me add a disclaimer to this: I will never refuse a book as a gift. Just in case you were wondering.
I gathered up all my unread or half read books to take a photo and document the beginning of my challenge. The size of my pile was much larger than I had anticipated.
There are four compilations books, so in all I have 32 books to read before Iset foot in make a purchase at a bookstore.
Here is the list, in no particular order:
The Devil Wears Prada, Weisberger
The Fabulous Girl's Guide to Decorum, Izzo & Marsh
The Host, Meyer
Atonement, McEwan
The Jungle, Sinclair
The Yada Yada Prayer Group, Jackson
French Women Don't Get Fat, Guiliano
Moll Flanders, Defoe
Son of a Witch, Maguire
The Tales of Beedle the Bard, Rowling
The Choice, Sparks
Saving Graces, Edwards
Little Women, Alcott
The Chronicles of Narnia, Lewis
*The Magician's Nephew
*The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Horse and His Boy
Prince Caspian
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
The Silver Chair
The Last Battle
The Complete Novels, Austen
Sense and Sensibility
**Pride and Prejudice
Mansfield Park
**Emma
Northanger Abbey
Persuasion
Lady Susan
Three Plums in one, Evanovich
One For the Money
Two For the Dough
Three to Get Deadly
More Plums in one, Evanovich
Four to Score
High Five
Hot Six
An Echo in the Bone, Gabaldon (not pictured)
*I have read these already, but plan to read them again.
**I have read these already and probably won't read them again. Not right now anyway.
The last book by Diana Gabaldon is the most recent one from the Outlander series which my mother-in-law and I have been reading together. I do not own the book, but she does and as it has already been purchased I'm including it on my "to be read" list. And if you've read the Outlander series you can't possibly expect me to read all these other books before I read An Echo in the Bone. I mean, let's get real here.
Wish me luck. I might even attempt a review or two, but I'm not promising anything.
I certainly hope everyone has avoided disaster to this point - especially since it's only the first day.
We're just getting started.
Anyone care to share their resolutions with me? Losing weight? Building muscle? Cleaning out your closet? Saving money?
Can you tell I'm stalling?
Making resolutions has never really been something I've done. Mostly because I feel like I'm setting myself up for failure, and that's no way to start out the new year. Am I right?
Last year I resolved to be grateful for something every day. More specifically I joined in on 365 days of grace in small things where the challenge is to blog daily about 5 things you are grateful for. This is something that has had a profound effect of my life this last year; something I will talk about a bit more later in the month. I did manage to stick with it, but a few things got in my way and my 365 posts will not be done until January 19th.
Given the success of this 365 day resolution I've decided to do another. I'm jumping on the bandwagon with a fellow blogger and attempting to do Project 365 which challenges you to take at least one photo a day for a year. That doesn't sound too difficult does it? One would think not, but I can see how, on those boring days, it might take some creativity to take a different photo than the one you took the day before.
Right now I have a second blog dedicated to my current 365 challenge. I haven't yet decided if I will continue using it as a 365 blog or if I'll let it stand as a gratitude blog and post my Project 365 photos here. I'm undecided, but I won't be posting daily for this project. I will definitley take a photo every day, but there might just be one post a week dedicated to the project. It will make life easier for me and hopefully keep this photo thing from seeming like a chore.
Either way, I'll post my first photo by the end of today. Stay tuned.
On to resolution number 2.
Did I just say 2? I'm pretty sure I did. Holy cow!
I am an avid reader. Reading is sexy and all that jazz.
As hobbies go this is my favorite and certainly the longest running.
I don't do book reviews on here because I'm bad at them. I have a hard time keeping it short and sweet and not spoiling things. Just ask my English lit professor that asked me to write a four page paper synopsizing Emma by Jane Austen. My paper was at least double that.
Another love if mine is bookstores and new book smell. This can sometimes be a problem. Which brings me to my next resolution.
For a few years now I've been collecting books on my shelf that I either a) mean to read, b) start to read but don't finish or c) receive as gifts and don't get around to.
So, I am resolving to read all the book in my "to be read" pile before I allow myself to buy another book. Gasp!
Let me add a disclaimer to this: I will never refuse a book as a gift. Just in case you were wondering.
I gathered up all my unread or half read books to take a photo and document the beginning of my challenge. The size of my pile was much larger than I had anticipated.
There are four compilations books, so in all I have 32 books to read before I
Here is the list, in no particular order:
The Devil Wears Prada, Weisberger
The Fabulous Girl's Guide to Decorum, Izzo & Marsh
The Host, Meyer
Atonement, McEwan
The Jungle, Sinclair
The Yada Yada Prayer Group, Jackson
French Women Don't Get Fat, Guiliano
Moll Flanders, Defoe
Son of a Witch, Maguire
The Tales of Beedle the Bard, Rowling
The Choice, Sparks
Saving Graces, Edwards
Little Women, Alcott
The Chronicles of Narnia, Lewis
*The Magician's Nephew
*The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Horse and His Boy
Prince Caspian
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
The Silver Chair
The Last Battle
The Complete Novels, Austen
Sense and Sensibility
**Pride and Prejudice
Mansfield Park
**Emma
Northanger Abbey
Persuasion
Lady Susan
Three Plums in one, Evanovich
One For the Money
Two For the Dough
Three to Get Deadly
More Plums in one, Evanovich
Four to Score
High Five
Hot Six
An Echo in the Bone, Gabaldon (not pictured)
*I have read these already, but plan to read them again.
**I have read these already and probably won't read them again. Not right now anyway.
The last book by Diana Gabaldon is the most recent one from the Outlander series which my mother-in-law and I have been reading together. I do not own the book, but she does and as it has already been purchased I'm including it on my "to be read" list. And if you've read the Outlander series you can't possibly expect me to read all these other books before I read An Echo in the Bone. I mean, let's get real here.
Wish me luck. I might even attempt a review or two, but I'm not promising anything.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
2009 - Blog Year in Review
Here's a look back at what 2009 was like on my blog and in my life.
January brought lot's of excitement.
First I set a goal that would take an entire year to fulfill.
Our country turned over a new leaf by inaugurating a new president. I'll keep my personal feelings on his progress to date under wraps; as is the tradition on this blog and in my personal life.
Also, my very best friend found out she was pregnant. She told me the same night she told her husband and then swore me to secrecy. So I didn't blog about it and we all know how much I like to keep secrets. There for a while I thought I might implode.
February was a quiet month, but I managed to overcome a personal battle I'd been fighting for some time with my first successful pie.
In March I was allowed to tell the world about Julie's pregnancy and her ever growing belly. Also my newest niece graced us with her presence. It's been a big year for babies. And I celebrated one year of blogging by blogging every day for a month (almost).
Next up was my all time favorite month of the year, April.
First up was my birthday. I turned 27 and got geared up for another fantastic year of ME!
Eleven days after my birthday, on April 14th, came the day that changed my life. That fateful day where I said goodbye to my car and hello to a lot of new doctors.
May found me on the sofa all.month.long. Blogging in an inebriated state. Trying to find the silver lining in the situation and evaluating my new reality.
By June I was ready to shed my cast, but shortly after escaping my sofa I found myself imprisoned there again after a second surgery.
But after my short recovery period I was able to get up and start walking again. Rebuilding my strength. This also allowed me to take a good hard look back at how far I'd come.
Along with walking came getting out and rejoining society. It was truly splendid.
When July rolled around I was ready to show my face to the world again. Also, I took over as primary driver of The Hulk. And by the end of the month we took our first road trip together to see Julie and celebrate her first baby shower!
The first week of August we found ourselves at the beach. Me, for the first time in several years. The rest of the month I took a break from blogging because there was a dismal lack of activity that month. It was pretty fantastic.
We rang in September by celebrating three years of marital bliss and then I took another long break to enjoy the last lingering days of summer. I also spent some time in Raleigh with Julie and Frank helping them welcome baby Mina into the world.
The spooktacular month of October wasn't scary at all, but it was very busy.
We spent a good bit of time enjoying the outdoors because the warm weather stayed around for a good long time this year.
I took a moment to reminisce and be grateful for the blessings I'd received.
The end of the month took Andy away from home and on a great cross country adventure. When he came back I gleefully welcomed him home.
November, another busy month, but a good one.
First on the agenda was Julie's baby shower. If I do say so myself it was a hit and I so enjoyed seeing them again. Mina changes daily and it's going to take some effort on my part to keep up.
Andy and I declared war on the gnats that had invaded our home.
We celebrated Thanksgiving. The first in our home with our family with me as the chef. Which is something that made me very, very grateful.
By December we were ready for the year to end, but 2009 was sure to go out with a bang.
I kicked off the month by entering a cookie contest. I didn't win the whole shebang, but I did win a prize and so did one of the lovely ladies that voted for me. That's something I'll fill you in on during the new year.
The holidays are always an adventure and our house was certainly no exception.
Half way through I took another trip down to Raleigh to celebrate the season with Julie and some of my internet friends.
The next weekend brought snow, snow and more snow. We also had to say goodbye to a good friend. Something that is always difficult but when it comes during this special time of year it seems brings and extra bitterness.
Christmas week was bittersweet. And Christmas day can be best described as hellish; thanks in large part to the ice storm that tore through the area on Christmas eve.
That brings us up to date.
I can't remember another year that had such a big impact on my life and how I live it. Nor can I recall a time that I was so happy to see the new year roll around. It's fresh, new and full of possibility.
The year's lessons are something that I will carry with me always. I have been forever altered by the turn my life has taken in 2009. I can't say that I would change any of it, but there are many things that I certainly wouldn't want to do over.
I am so very grateful for all the friends I've made - through this blog, on my medical journey and by happenstance. The love and support I've received from everyone, family and friends, is a priceless piece of joy that lives in my heart.
I'm ready for the new year.
From now on change is something I welcome, and I know that with so many people standing by my side me I can handle whatever comes.
January brought lot's of excitement.
First I set a goal that would take an entire year to fulfill.
Our country turned over a new leaf by inaugurating a new president. I'll keep my personal feelings on his progress to date under wraps; as is the tradition on this blog and in my personal life.
Also, my very best friend found out she was pregnant. She told me the same night she told her husband and then swore me to secrecy. So I didn't blog about it and we all know how much I like to keep secrets. There for a while I thought I might implode.
February was a quiet month, but I managed to overcome a personal battle I'd been fighting for some time with my first successful pie.
In March I was allowed to tell the world about Julie's pregnancy and her ever growing belly. Also my newest niece graced us with her presence. It's been a big year for babies. And I celebrated one year of blogging by blogging every day for a month (almost).
Next up was my all time favorite month of the year, April.
First up was my birthday. I turned 27 and got geared up for another fantastic year of ME!
Eleven days after my birthday, on April 14th, came the day that changed my life. That fateful day where I said goodbye to my car and hello to a lot of new doctors.
May found me on the sofa all.month.long. Blogging in an inebriated state. Trying to find the silver lining in the situation and evaluating my new reality.
By June I was ready to shed my cast, but shortly after escaping my sofa I found myself imprisoned there again after a second surgery.
But after my short recovery period I was able to get up and start walking again. Rebuilding my strength. This also allowed me to take a good hard look back at how far I'd come.
Along with walking came getting out and rejoining society. It was truly splendid.
When July rolled around I was ready to show my face to the world again. Also, I took over as primary driver of The Hulk. And by the end of the month we took our first road trip together to see Julie and celebrate her first baby shower!
The first week of August we found ourselves at the beach. Me, for the first time in several years. The rest of the month I took a break from blogging because there was a dismal lack of activity that month. It was pretty fantastic.
We rang in September by celebrating three years of marital bliss and then I took another long break to enjoy the last lingering days of summer. I also spent some time in Raleigh with Julie and Frank helping them welcome baby Mina into the world.
The spooktacular month of October wasn't scary at all, but it was very busy.
We spent a good bit of time enjoying the outdoors because the warm weather stayed around for a good long time this year.
I took a moment to reminisce and be grateful for the blessings I'd received.
The end of the month took Andy away from home and on a great cross country adventure. When he came back I gleefully welcomed him home.
November, another busy month, but a good one.
First on the agenda was Julie's baby shower. If I do say so myself it was a hit and I so enjoyed seeing them again. Mina changes daily and it's going to take some effort on my part to keep up.
Andy and I declared war on the gnats that had invaded our home.
We celebrated Thanksgiving. The first in our home with our family with me as the chef. Which is something that made me very, very grateful.
By December we were ready for the year to end, but 2009 was sure to go out with a bang.
I kicked off the month by entering a cookie contest. I didn't win the whole shebang, but I did win a prize and so did one of the lovely ladies that voted for me. That's something I'll fill you in on during the new year.
The holidays are always an adventure and our house was certainly no exception.
Half way through I took another trip down to Raleigh to celebrate the season with Julie and some of my internet friends.
The next weekend brought snow, snow and more snow. We also had to say goodbye to a good friend. Something that is always difficult but when it comes during this special time of year it seems brings and extra bitterness.
Christmas week was bittersweet. And Christmas day can be best described as hellish; thanks in large part to the ice storm that tore through the area on Christmas eve.
That brings us up to date.
I can't remember another year that had such a big impact on my life and how I live it. Nor can I recall a time that I was so happy to see the new year roll around. It's fresh, new and full of possibility.
The year's lessons are something that I will carry with me always. I have been forever altered by the turn my life has taken in 2009. I can't say that I would change any of it, but there are many things that I certainly wouldn't want to do over.
I am so very grateful for all the friends I've made - through this blog, on my medical journey and by happenstance. The love and support I've received from everyone, family and friends, is a priceless piece of joy that lives in my heart.
I'm ready for the new year.
From now on change is something I welcome, and I know that with so many people standing by my side me I can handle whatever comes.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Drumroll please!
Thanks to all who participated in my poll. I tell ya, this was such a life altering decision, I don't know what I'd have done without you all.
Ok, I'm being sarcastic. Remember what this blog is called. And what I said at the end of yesterday's post.
I'm afraid I did not listen to the majority. And the other two poll options were split fifty-fifty in voters.
So which was it?
Let's start with the before. I managed to get my camera charged and take a snapshot of myself before I left this morning.
And, this is what I came home with.
Andy was on the phone when I walked in the door and he told the person on the other line that I was missing twelve inches of my hair.
But after he had a minute to process it he gave his approval. And I love it too!
I'm ready for what 2010 has in store! Bring on the new year!
Ok, I'm being sarcastic. Remember what this blog is called. And what I said at the end of yesterday's post.
I'm afraid I did not listen to the majority. And the other two poll options were split fifty-fifty in voters.
So which was it?
Let's start with the before. I managed to get my camera charged and take a snapshot of myself before I left this morning.
And, this is what I came home with.
Andy was on the phone when I walked in the door and he told the person on the other line that I was missing twelve inches of my hair.
But after he had a minute to process it he gave his approval. And I love it too!
I'm ready for what 2010 has in store! Bring on the new year!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Haircut hangup
Let me begin by saying that I haven't set foot in a salon since May. I know!
Usually six months is my max for going without at least a trim, but a hair cut just hasn't been in our budget. At least, not the kind of hair cut I want. Going to one of those super cuts places is not an option for me. I just won't do it.
The trouble is that whenever I make an appointment this time of year I usually make a drastic change. My hair is really long right now. Longer than it has been in nearly ten years. Given the dry weather and the static that plagues me daily I would like nothing more than to chop off my tresses a la dooce. I mean, how awesome is her haircut? And that baby? Well, we aren't talking about babies - we're talking about hair.
Anyway, I've had a pixie cut before and loved it! But a pixie cut requires a trip to the salon every six weeks or so. Let's remember the budgetary constraints here.
I've decided just to get myself a good trim. Some extra layers to give my hair movement. Also, I've grown very fond of having some form of bang in the last couple of years. Since my last cut my bangs have completely grown out and I hate it. So the major decision here is what kind of bangs to get.
Heavy and blunt:
Or light and wispy:
I had planned on taking a picture of myself today so that you could see exactly what my mop looks like, but then remembered that my camera battery is dead and the charger is being held captive in The Hulk with Andy.
So, this will have to do:
This photo was taken almost two months ago, so my hair was still somewhat reasonable. Imagine it kind of stringy and messy all over.
In case it matters; my hair is fine, but with medium thickness. Thin enough for a big pony tail holder wrapped around three times, but too thick for a skinny one, those just won't hold my hair. It also has a fair amount of natural curl that is easily beaten into submission.
So which face framing fringe should I ask for? What do you think?
Also, keep in mind that I am wildly spontaneous when it comes to my hair and the more I look at that photo of dooce the more I want to chop off all my hair. It is very likely I will ignore all advice and my own judgment and come home missing about a foot of hair.
Update! I added a poll in the side bar for all you non-commenters.
*Photos from Hair Thursday.
Usually six months is my max for going without at least a trim, but a hair cut just hasn't been in our budget. At least, not the kind of hair cut I want. Going to one of those super cuts places is not an option for me. I just won't do it.
The trouble is that whenever I make an appointment this time of year I usually make a drastic change. My hair is really long right now. Longer than it has been in nearly ten years. Given the dry weather and the static that plagues me daily I would like nothing more than to chop off my tresses a la dooce. I mean, how awesome is her haircut? And that baby? Well, we aren't talking about babies - we're talking about hair.
Anyway, I've had a pixie cut before and loved it! But a pixie cut requires a trip to the salon every six weeks or so. Let's remember the budgetary constraints here.
I've decided just to get myself a good trim. Some extra layers to give my hair movement. Also, I've grown very fond of having some form of bang in the last couple of years. Since my last cut my bangs have completely grown out and I hate it. So the major decision here is what kind of bangs to get.
Heavy and blunt:
Or light and wispy:
I had planned on taking a picture of myself today so that you could see exactly what my mop looks like, but then remembered that my camera battery is dead and the charger is being held captive in The Hulk with Andy.
So, this will have to do:
This photo was taken almost two months ago, so my hair was still somewhat reasonable. Imagine it kind of stringy and messy all over.In case it matters; my hair is fine, but with medium thickness. Thin enough for a big pony tail holder wrapped around three times, but too thick for a skinny one, those just won't hold my hair. It also has a fair amount of natural curl that is easily beaten into submission.
So which face framing fringe should I ask for? What do you think?
Also, keep in mind that I am wildly spontaneous when it comes to my hair and the more I look at that photo of dooce the more I want to chop off all my hair. It is very likely I will ignore all advice and my own judgment and come home missing about a foot of hair.
Update! I added a poll in the side bar for all you non-commenters.
*Photos from Hair Thursday.
Monday, December 28, 2009
So I went shopping this afternoon...
Guess what I bought.
I bet you can't.
Come on! Give it a try!
No?
Alright I'll tell you.
First I stopped at a gas station and purchased petrol for The Hulk.
And then...
After spending several hours going in and out of stores I went back home.
The end.
Not a damn thing, that's what I bought!
My grievances:
What are some online shops that you like? I'm in dire straights here. My Christmas cash is burning a hole in my threadbare pocket. Help!
I bet you can't.
Come on! Give it a try!
No?
Alright I'll tell you.
First I stopped at a gas station and purchased petrol for The Hulk.
And then...
After spending several hours going in and out of stores I went back home.
The end.
Not a damn thing, that's what I bought!
My grievances:
- The sales (if you could call them that) were terrible. I realize that we're in a recession and that stores aren't making as much money, so they want to squeeze every penny they can out of an item, but WE'RE IN A RECESSION! People can't afford to pay full price for things! Not to mention that it's the week after Christmas and there are supposed to be good sales. Come on retailers!
- What is up with all the horizontal stripes? I mean, I can deal with a few horizontal stripes, they aren't the most flattering things, but in the right colors and on the right top they can work. But horizontal stripes in multiple colors and widths on one shirt? Even the mannequins look fat.
- Short people can not wear tunics. If you are short, don't bother shopping right now.
- The clothing is poorly made and ill fitting.
- How about the "pencil skirt" that resembles a pencil skirt as much a flip flops resemble suede boots? That was a real joy in the fitting room.
What are some online shops that you like? I'm in dire straights here. My Christmas cash is burning a hole in my threadbare pocket. Help!
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Follow up to my cranky Christmas post
After I had my meltdown on Friday night I made myself put down my phone so I wouldn't call anyone and begin to verbally beat them, I walked away from the computer so I couldn't bah humbug anymore and then made myself some food.
(Let me add here: I fully expected to wake up on Saturday to some nasty comment about how there are starving children in Africa with no house at all and that I should quit my bitching and just be grateful. That's something I've been telling myself since I hit publish on Friday night and I totally would have deserved it. But no one said anything (yet) about how I was being a major brat. Thanks for that.)
So anyway, back to the food. Turns out I was kind of hungry. Ok, like a lot hungry and putting something in my tummy other than Reese's peanut butter cups was a very good decision on my part. Then I sat down in front of the television and put Julie & Julia into the DVD player. It was a gift from my fabulous in laws and I hadn't seen it yet. I LOVE it! The combination of eating good food and watching a movie about people making good food improved my mood considerably. And right about the time the movie was over our water came back on. It just so happens that we are on a well and the pump for the well is on a different power line than our apartment. The power for the well hadn't been restored yet. Not until about 10:30.
At first the toilet was making some seriously crazy sounds. I thought for sure it was going to blow up, which would have just been the icing on the cake that had been Christmas day. So I shut the door to the bathroom and walked away. Next, I called Andy to tell him about the water coming back and the toilet situation and he said, "You just shut the door?" Um, yeah I just shut the door. What the hell did he really think I was going to do about it if the toilet did explode? Being covered in sewage would have completely destroyed the small semblance of a good mood I'd managed to create and I thought shutting the door was a stroke of genius. I told him just that and that if the toilet did explode then at least the mess would be contained to one room.
But, whatever, the toilet didn't explode. So at 11:00 I took a shower, then Andy came home from work and he took a shower and we happily tucked ourselves into bed where visions of working plumbing danced in our heads.
On Saturday I finally got to see my family.
There were several people missing, but it was nice to see most of them anyway.
Highlight of my day:
When my youngest nephew opened his present from Andy and I (a t-shrit with a Mr.Potato head face on it). He held it up to his chest, said, "OH! Thanks!" then tossed it over his shoulder to contiue playing with the toys I'd interrupted him from. I do not have that on video, though I wish I did.
What I do have on video is my family trying to arange themselves for the annual Christmas picture I impose on them.
I thought it might be funny to document, but instead of telling them I just set the camera up on the tripod, pressed record and waited.
Let me apologize in advance for how nasaly and whiny I sound. Apparently that happens when I'm being bossy. I'm gonna' have to do something about it.
What you can't hear is that my uncle Tony is making farting noises at me the whole time. He hates having his picutre taken, like my sweet little husband, and has grown increasingly surly about this photo every year. Also, my grandmother had not had a bath yet that day and refused to be in the photo at first. We got her in there, but she's probably going to tell me not to put the picture on the internet the next time she talks to me. Too late.
There were several missing components to our family because I was there a day late, but I still insisted because there were more than four of us gathered at one time. That's something that only happens on holidays, and after losing some vital people in my family unit I've decided this is absolutely necessary. One day they will all thank me.
It did turn out to be a wonderful Christmas anyway. Somehow it always does. I think it's just the season.
I hope yours was merry and even if you don't celebrate Christmas I hope that you've taken some time out to spend with your family. Even if they drive you batty it's worth it.
(Let me add here: I fully expected to wake up on Saturday to some nasty comment about how there are starving children in Africa with no house at all and that I should quit my bitching and just be grateful. That's something I've been telling myself since I hit publish on Friday night and I totally would have deserved it. But no one said anything (yet) about how I was being a major brat. Thanks for that.)
So anyway, back to the food. Turns out I was kind of hungry. Ok, like a lot hungry and putting something in my tummy other than Reese's peanut butter cups was a very good decision on my part. Then I sat down in front of the television and put Julie & Julia into the DVD player. It was a gift from my fabulous in laws and I hadn't seen it yet. I LOVE it! The combination of eating good food and watching a movie about people making good food improved my mood considerably. And right about the time the movie was over our water came back on. It just so happens that we are on a well and the pump for the well is on a different power line than our apartment. The power for the well hadn't been restored yet. Not until about 10:30.
At first the toilet was making some seriously crazy sounds. I thought for sure it was going to blow up, which would have just been the icing on the cake that had been Christmas day. So I shut the door to the bathroom and walked away. Next, I called Andy to tell him about the water coming back and the toilet situation and he said, "You just shut the door?" Um, yeah I just shut the door. What the hell did he really think I was going to do about it if the toilet did explode? Being covered in sewage would have completely destroyed the small semblance of a good mood I'd managed to create and I thought shutting the door was a stroke of genius. I told him just that and that if the toilet did explode then at least the mess would be contained to one room.
But, whatever, the toilet didn't explode. So at 11:00 I took a shower, then Andy came home from work and he took a shower and we happily tucked ourselves into bed where visions of working plumbing danced in our heads.
On Saturday I finally got to see my family.
There were several people missing, but it was nice to see most of them anyway.
Highlight of my day:
When my youngest nephew opened his present from Andy and I (a t-shrit with a Mr.Potato head face on it). He held it up to his chest, said, "OH! Thanks!" then tossed it over his shoulder to contiue playing with the toys I'd interrupted him from. I do not have that on video, though I wish I did.
What I do have on video is my family trying to arange themselves for the annual Christmas picture I impose on them.
I thought it might be funny to document, but instead of telling them I just set the camera up on the tripod, pressed record and waited.
Let me apologize in advance for how nasaly and whiny I sound. Apparently that happens when I'm being bossy. I'm gonna' have to do something about it.
What you can't hear is that my uncle Tony is making farting noises at me the whole time. He hates having his picutre taken, like my sweet little husband, and has grown increasingly surly about this photo every year. Also, my grandmother had not had a bath yet that day and refused to be in the photo at first. We got her in there, but she's probably going to tell me not to put the picture on the internet the next time she talks to me. Too late.
There were several missing components to our family because I was there a day late, but I still insisted because there were more than four of us gathered at one time. That's something that only happens on holidays, and after losing some vital people in my family unit I've decided this is absolutely necessary. One day they will all thank me.
It did turn out to be a wonderful Christmas anyway. Somehow it always does. I think it's just the season.
I hope yours was merry and even if you don't celebrate Christmas I hope that you've taken some time out to spend with your family. Even if they drive you batty it's worth it.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas (kind of)
All Christmas season I've kept my cheer in tip-top shape. I feel like I have so many blessings this year that even stress on the holidays couldn't get in the way of my high. Not a lot of money for presents? No problem! I'm here and able to spend the holidays with my family. That's really all that matters.
So why the Grinchy attitude all of a sudden? Hold on. You'll see.
We need to go back a few days, so I can fill you in.
Wednesday Andy and I went to a funeral. A funeral for a 22 year old that should still be alive. He was healthy and there is no reason he should have passed away. I know that God has his reasons, but so often with death they are hard to see.
After the funeral I asked Andy's sister to take our picture because we are so rarely dressed up together.
(Do you think that's tacky of me to want our picture taken in our funeral attire? I'm not entirely sure that I care what anyone's opinion is. I didn't take the pictures at the funeral or even near it. Seven years ago when my grandfather died, one of my distant uncles took pictures of me with my bereaved family while we were walking to the graveside. That was tacky.)
Andy hates having his picture taken and is a serious pain in the ass, but he's been sick since the beginning of the week so his whining was almost unbearable. This is the best we managed to get out of him before he stormed off proclaiming, "That's it!"
So Wednesday was spent mostly grieving. We got home later than expected and I spent the rest of the evening in the kitchen decorating cookies. Because, like our friend's father said at his son's funeral, "Cameron would want you to have a meaningful Christmas."
I decorated and cooked until I couldn't take anymore and then I woke up early on Thursday morning to do some more.
Thursday was a much more pleasant day. Tiring, but very enjoyable.
I was in the kitchen all day, right up to dinner time. I made sugar cookies and truffles and carrot cake cookies and cinnamon rolls. Plus a few side dishes to go with dinner.
Andy's family came up at about 4 then Andy got home just after 6. That is a miracle in and of itself because Andy never gets home on time on Christmas eve, so we finished up dinner and sat down for a fantastic meal after we opened presents. We gluttoned ourselves as people are likely to do this time of year and after cleaning up and divvying out the leftovers we sent them on their way. They were in a bit of a rush to get going because the forecast was warning of an ice storm on its way.
No matter. Everyone got home safely and, though I was exhausted from the day's activities, I went to bed with great anticipation for the lovely Christmas day ahead of me.
Then the ice storm hit.
Andy slept like a rock because he took his nighttime cold medicine. I, on the other hand, did not self medicate and woke up several times in the night to gale force winds throwing tiny little ice spears at our window. It seemed as though our house would for sure come down on our heads and we would either be crushed or frozen.
Neither of those things happened though and I suffered through the restless night. Waking up at 6:30 to the power flickering on and off. It finally settled on staying on for a bit so I got up to stuff stockings and go ahead and make some coffee lest the power decide to fizzle completely.
I got the coffee made and the stockings stuffed. The power was holding strong; no more flickers. So I attempted to waken my sick, sleepy husband. I don't like to wait to open presents. The five year old in me can not be put off on Christmas morning.
I did not manage to get sir grumps-a-lot out of bed until the power finally died at 8 o'clock.
When he did rise we went into the living room and tore into the gifts... in the dark. Much jubilation for gift opening was had and the bunnies enjoyed playing in the wrapping paper and inspecting their newest treats.
But our little living space was growing cold quickly so we built a fire and Andy set out for the ski shop (which also did not have power). The forecast told of rain to come in the afternoon so I waited a bit before I set off down the mountain to see the family.
Andy came home around noon. The ski shop was cold and going to stay that way until the power came on, so they closed up until that great event occurred and he helped me pack up the car to head off the mountain.
At this point in the day our roads were only wet, so I felt safe making the hour long trek. I kissed my husband goodbye and hopped in the Hulk. Over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother's house I went. Until I got to the next town that was covered in ice and people were totally ignoring road conditions and driving like maniacs.
I decided I'd quite had my fill of car accidents for a lifetime so I turned around and headed back to my husband.
On the upside of all this: I haven't spent Christmas day with Andy in about three years because he is always working. So it was a blessing in disguise that we got to have a little Christmas time together. Even without power, heat or water.
We heated up leftovers in the fireplace and Andy made a make-shift cooler for his winter brews.
Then instead of talking, or playing a game or any other shenanigans, we proceeded to fall asleep on the sofa because I was tired from lack of sleep and Andy's cold hasn't gotten any better.
Then at almost five o'clock I woke up to my sickly love telling me the power was back on and he was going to work.
So here I am. Alone.
I have power, but guess what didn't come back? Our water. Yes, that's right we haven't had water all day either. It's been well over 24 hours since I had a shower and my present mood is declining in direct correlation to my cleanliness.
I keep telling myself that I still have so much to be grateful for, but it isn't putting any pep in my step. Right now I just want to be crabby and upset, and wallow in self pity. So that's what I'm going to do.
The sun is supposed to shine tomorrow and I'm going to go see my family then. Also, come hell or high water (which seems not only possible, but likely at this point) I'm going to have a shower. If not tonight then tomorrow at someone's house who has water.
Despite my unpleasant demeanor I hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas. Feel free to share your holiday cheer with me. It might help boost my mood.
So why the Grinchy attitude all of a sudden? Hold on. You'll see.
We need to go back a few days, so I can fill you in.
Wednesday Andy and I went to a funeral. A funeral for a 22 year old that should still be alive. He was healthy and there is no reason he should have passed away. I know that God has his reasons, but so often with death they are hard to see.
After the funeral I asked Andy's sister to take our picture because we are so rarely dressed up together.
(Do you think that's tacky of me to want our picture taken in our funeral attire? I'm not entirely sure that I care what anyone's opinion is. I didn't take the pictures at the funeral or even near it. Seven years ago when my grandfather died, one of my distant uncles took pictures of me with my bereaved family while we were walking to the graveside. That was tacky.)
Andy hates having his picture taken and is a serious pain in the ass, but he's been sick since the beginning of the week so his whining was almost unbearable. This is the best we managed to get out of him before he stormed off proclaiming, "That's it!"
So Wednesday was spent mostly grieving. We got home later than expected and I spent the rest of the evening in the kitchen decorating cookies. Because, like our friend's father said at his son's funeral, "Cameron would want you to have a meaningful Christmas."
I decorated and cooked until I couldn't take anymore and then I woke up early on Thursday morning to do some more.
Thursday was a much more pleasant day. Tiring, but very enjoyable.
I was in the kitchen all day, right up to dinner time. I made sugar cookies and truffles and carrot cake cookies and cinnamon rolls. Plus a few side dishes to go with dinner.
Andy's family came up at about 4 then Andy got home just after 6. That is a miracle in and of itself because Andy never gets home on time on Christmas eve, so we finished up dinner and sat down for a fantastic meal after we opened presents. We gluttoned ourselves as people are likely to do this time of year and after cleaning up and divvying out the leftovers we sent them on their way. They were in a bit of a rush to get going because the forecast was warning of an ice storm on its way.
No matter. Everyone got home safely and, though I was exhausted from the day's activities, I went to bed with great anticipation for the lovely Christmas day ahead of me.
Then the ice storm hit.
Andy slept like a rock because he took his nighttime cold medicine. I, on the other hand, did not self medicate and woke up several times in the night to gale force winds throwing tiny little ice spears at our window. It seemed as though our house would for sure come down on our heads and we would either be crushed or frozen.
Neither of those things happened though and I suffered through the restless night. Waking up at 6:30 to the power flickering on and off. It finally settled on staying on for a bit so I got up to stuff stockings and go ahead and make some coffee lest the power decide to fizzle completely.
I got the coffee made and the stockings stuffed. The power was holding strong; no more flickers. So I attempted to waken my sick, sleepy husband. I don't like to wait to open presents. The five year old in me can not be put off on Christmas morning.
I did not manage to get sir grumps-a-lot out of bed until the power finally died at 8 o'clock.
When he did rise we went into the living room and tore into the gifts... in the dark. Much jubilation for gift opening was had and the bunnies enjoyed playing in the wrapping paper and inspecting their newest treats.
But our little living space was growing cold quickly so we built a fire and Andy set out for the ski shop (which also did not have power). The forecast told of rain to come in the afternoon so I waited a bit before I set off down the mountain to see the family.
Andy came home around noon. The ski shop was cold and going to stay that way until the power came on, so they closed up until that great event occurred and he helped me pack up the car to head off the mountain.
At this point in the day our roads were only wet, so I felt safe making the hour long trek. I kissed my husband goodbye and hopped in the Hulk. Over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother's house I went. Until I got to the next town that was covered in ice and people were totally ignoring road conditions and driving like maniacs.
I decided I'd quite had my fill of car accidents for a lifetime so I turned around and headed back to my husband.
On the upside of all this: I haven't spent Christmas day with Andy in about three years because he is always working. So it was a blessing in disguise that we got to have a little Christmas time together. Even without power, heat or water.
We heated up leftovers in the fireplace and Andy made a make-shift cooler for his winter brews.
Then instead of talking, or playing a game or any other shenanigans, we proceeded to fall asleep on the sofa because I was tired from lack of sleep and Andy's cold hasn't gotten any better.
Then at almost five o'clock I woke up to my sickly love telling me the power was back on and he was going to work.
So here I am. Alone.
I have power, but guess what didn't come back? Our water. Yes, that's right we haven't had water all day either. It's been well over 24 hours since I had a shower and my present mood is declining in direct correlation to my cleanliness.
I keep telling myself that I still have so much to be grateful for, but it isn't putting any pep in my step. Right now I just want to be crabby and upset, and wallow in self pity. So that's what I'm going to do.
The sun is supposed to shine tomorrow and I'm going to go see my family then. Also, come hell or high water (which seems not only possible, but likely at this point) I'm going to have a shower. If not tonight then tomorrow at someone's house who has water.
Despite my unpleasant demeanor I hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas. Feel free to share your holiday cheer with me. It might help boost my mood.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Last minute holiday crafting
Yesterday my friend Jessie brought over an early Christmas present for me. Yay me!
The package was beautiful, but Jessie wanted me to open it in front of her. Not wanting to disappoint I ripped right into that bad boy. She got me a package of various fancy sea salts. Right up my alley. I've already got a recipe picked out!
But we're not talking about the sea salts, we're talking about crafting aren't we. That's what the title of the post says. I'm getting to the crafting part.
This is what the package looked like before I ravaged it:
Gorgeous, right?
It was even better in person. The ribbon was so soft and silky and felt like butter. Also, those snowflakes aren't printed on they're velvet. That's not something you just throw in the trash.
I knew I needed to do something with it. I considered making ornaments out of it.
But I already made a couple for our tree this year out of old holiday cards.
So I decided I should make some garland.
I set out to do just that, but about half way through decided it wasn't going to work. The "garland" didn't hang right and it would have driven me crazy.
What now? I was already half way into my craft and it wasn't going to turn out like I'd hoped.
Then I had an inspiration! We're having Christmas dinner here with Andy's family on Christmas eve and I'm planning on using my fancy dishes.
Only problem is that my fancy dishes are silver and white and don't match my holiday table decorations.
See?
Those place mats and utensil mittens are perfect for my every day dishes, but not so much with the silver and white stuff.
What's a girl to do?
I'm really not this dramatic about it. I usually take the decorations off the table and just let the dishes be the decoration.
But not this year. Not anymore!
I rearranged some snowflakes and turned my failed holiday garland into the perfect table runner for our Christmas eve dinner.
I think I'm in love!
I didn't take step-by-step photos. It's really kind of a no-brain-er. I just cut out the snowflakes and backed them with black cardstock to make them sturdier. After I laid them out like I wanted them I used ribbon, glue and metal grommets to hold it all together. Viola!
It was quick, easy and painless. Well, mostly painless. I did cut my finger with a pair of scissors, because I'm totally smooth like that.
Do you like to do holiday crafts? Or are you all retail all the time?
The package was beautiful, but Jessie wanted me to open it in front of her. Not wanting to disappoint I ripped right into that bad boy. She got me a package of various fancy sea salts. Right up my alley. I've already got a recipe picked out!
But we're not talking about the sea salts, we're talking about crafting aren't we. That's what the title of the post says. I'm getting to the crafting part.
This is what the package looked like before I ravaged it:
Gorgeous, right?It was even better in person. The ribbon was so soft and silky and felt like butter. Also, those snowflakes aren't printed on they're velvet. That's not something you just throw in the trash.
I knew I needed to do something with it. I considered making ornaments out of it.
But I already made a couple for our tree this year out of old holiday cards.
So I decided I should make some garland.I set out to do just that, but about half way through decided it wasn't going to work. The "garland" didn't hang right and it would have driven me crazy.
What now? I was already half way into my craft and it wasn't going to turn out like I'd hoped.
Then I had an inspiration! We're having Christmas dinner here with Andy's family on Christmas eve and I'm planning on using my fancy dishes.
Only problem is that my fancy dishes are silver and white and don't match my holiday table decorations.
See?
Those place mats and utensil mittens are perfect for my every day dishes, but not so much with the silver and white stuff.
What's a girl to do?
I'm really not this dramatic about it. I usually take the decorations off the table and just let the dishes be the decoration.
But not this year. Not anymore!
I rearranged some snowflakes and turned my failed holiday garland into the perfect table runner for our Christmas eve dinner.
I think I'm in love!
I didn't take step-by-step photos. It's really kind of a no-brain-er. I just cut out the snowflakes and backed them with black cardstock to make them sturdier. After I laid them out like I wanted them I used ribbon, glue and metal grommets to hold it all together. Viola!
It was quick, easy and painless. Well, mostly painless. I did cut my finger with a pair of scissors, because I'm totally smooth like that.
Do you like to do holiday crafts? Or are you all retail all the time?
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