My Life Improvement

Boojiboo Flirty Apron GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-07-15T22:49:00.001-07:00

I love a GrosgrainFabulous giveaway!!
I want one of these aprons!!

Boojiboo Flirty Apron GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Ooh ooh pick me !!

At Least I'm Trying

2009-05-25T22:01:00.002-07:00

I found myself close to Red Rocks again today so I went up to do the stairs again.

I even jogged a little bit. I have to start slow so even if I look like a wuss, I just have to do it.

First I stepped up the seats - leading with the right leg... then back down to the bottom to go up again leading with the left leg. Wow gee, my left leg is really weak.
I feel like a total out-of-shape Biggest Loser contestant plodding along while other people sprint around at high altitude breathing like it isn't even work!

But, I'm out there trying.

Yay Me!

2009-05-23T18:31:00.003-07:00

Wow. I just cannot get my act together to get exercise in.

Today, I went to meet someone for a hike at Red Rocks. I got there early and walked the bleachers twice. (Good for the glutes and quads) More athletic people run the bleachers for exercise - but between my extreme out-of-shape-itude, the altitude and my asthma - I went for the toning - not the cardio.

Blows you away though to watch a perfect phyisical specimen of a 20 year old male just jet up the bleachers in like - 5 seconds. Holy cow! - and if I were 20 years younger!

Then I hiked the trails around Red Rocks for maybe 2 miles. It was great exercise and really beautiful.

The highlight was watching some bridal party with their photographer stop by for a group photo with the rocks as a backdrop. The bridemaids had turquoise blue dresses and I can just imagine how great that picture is going to look against the rusty red rocks!!

Feel the Burn

2009-04-26T22:47:00.002-07:00

All it took was a little shopping (encountering mirrors) and excitedly getting out my spring clothes only to realize that none of my pants button... to get me out the door and exercising.

I did a little yoga at home with a DVD. Then popped into a free class on Sunday.

Then Thursday after work, I boogied on over to the park to roller blade! It was gorgeous out - and I did three loops around the park (one big one, two small ones) for about 5-6 miles.

Wanna know how out of shape I am? I didn't even get a quarter of a mile and I could feel the burn in my glutes and thighs. This worried me as I still had 2 more miles to go before I got back to the car! But once I warmed up I was fine. But I am still feeling my glutes three days later.

I managed to find excuses not to go blading for the past three days... and tomorrow there is supposed to be snow on the ground again! Bah!

Wheezy

2009-03-16T23:06:00.002-07:00

Well, I finally got off my butt today.

I'm loving the time change! The sun is still up when I get home from work.
So I laced up my shoes, and did a few laps around the walking path in the park which is just a block away. I know. What excuse do I have?

I brought my little 6 pound weight ball on the walk, to work my arm muscles a bit. I like to pass it around my torso like you would in Basketball practice... and hold my arms out straight with the ball in my palm for resistance. Then also alternate arm curls. It's not much but it's a nice little addition to an ordinary walk. When I'm more ambitious I use it for crunches... or lying flat on my back and tossing it in the air... Actually I have an 8 pound ball for that. Makes a good chest press.

I do not run. I don't really have a desire to run. Except for the fact that so many people seem to enjoy it - and it's something it seems like my body should be able to do.

The park next door has a little man- made hill... with a ramp up one side (for dirt bicycles I think) and rugged rocky terrain down the other side.
So to push myself, I thought I would run up the ramp, and navigate the foot path down the other side a few times. I ran up an down about four times... and then took three laps walking around the park catch my breath. I was seriously winded!

In fact, I got the little wheezy sound in my throat that calls for my asthma inhaler - so I promptly went home and took a hit!

TRS Accountability: One pathetic walk with weight ball.

Plllppptttt

2009-03-08T21:28:00.001-07:00

I still suck.

Maybe this week.

TRS

Ronni - you're already kicking my butt. good for you!

Weigh In

2009-02-27T09:00:00.003-07:00

Okay, so I did my weigh-in Wednesday: -4.9. I'm almost to my goal for the quarter (5 pounds lost), and I still have a month to go!

Ronnica accountability: 22 laps in the pool (40 minutes)

Just Lousy

2009-02-26T22:44:00.002-07:00

I've been just terrible.

My unlimited month of Yoga classes ran out after I was sick for a week - and completely fatigued for the week after that! Unfair.

I'm also dealing with some emotional stuff - but I'm recommitting to my exercise resolution for Lent.

Keep me honest here.

TRS Exercise Accountability: Ya gotta be kiddin' me!

Not Off the Wagon

2009-02-24T09:24:00.002-07:00

I've been rather absentee around here, but know that it's not because I've stopped exercising. I've been keeping it up (though probably not eating like I should), just forgetting to check in. I did complete my exercises for the last two weeks, and have already put in exercise #1 for this week.

Last week's weigh in was at -3.7, gaining half a pound. I did forget to weigh myself this morning, which I had hoped to include in this post. Look for that tomorrow (I'll only way myself in the morning, and sans clothing).

Ronnica accountability: 21 laps in the pool (35 minutes)

Another Week, Another Weigh-In

2009-02-10T12:16:00.004-07:00

It's Tuesday again, so time for another weigh-in. This is the second week this year that I did all my exercises (and one extra), so I was hoping to be encouraged by the number on the scale. If not, I know exactly what was to blame: Valentine's candy (though I've tried to eat only moderate amounts).

I was definitely encouraged...I'm down 2 whole pounds from last week, to -4.2! Woo hoo!

Ronnica accountability: 19 laps in the pool (35 minutes; Monday), 20 laps in the pool (35 minutes; Tuesday)

Congratulations Ronnica!

I've been slacking off due to my cold. First it was the horrible symptoms. Now it's the extreme fatigue. But I plan to be back at yoga before the weekend - if my respitory system cooperates.

TRS Accountability: Zip, Zero, Nada

I Love Warm Weather

2009-02-09T09:25:00.002-07:00

Oh, this weather is great. It really encourages you to be active when it's 60 or 70 degrees in the wintertime. This weekend I was able to go on a walk both Saturday and Sunday (in short sleeves!) as well as do my strength-building exercises. That makes 4 workouts this week! I'm really thinking about going to the pool 3 (maybe 4???) times this week. I'm pumped!

Ronnica accountability: 20 minutes walking and 20 minutes strength-building (Saturday); 25 minutes walking (Sunday)

This Week at the Pool

2009-02-06T08:07:00.002-07:00

Nothing much to say, other than I did my lap swimming and my water exercises this week. I think I'm going to push myself next week to go swimming another time, so I get 3 cardio workouts.

Ronnica accountability: Swam 18 laps (30 minutes, Tuesday); 1 hour water aerobics (Thursday)

Ugh

2009-02-05T21:29:00.002-07:00

I'm sick.

Just the other day I realized all my friends and their children were battling colds. I thought to myself: "I haven't been sick in a while... how lucky."

And I swear I wasn't cocky about it. It got me anyway.

I just got the cold yesterday - so that doesn't excuse that I've only been to yoga two times in the past two weeks.

And today, I stayed home for the morning, intending to do what work I could from home - but went into work to do the things I have to do there. I think I'll do the same tomorrow - except I have to do the homework. Or I can tell my co-worker that I can't, and she will do it. We'll see.

Thing is, I'm 'on-call'/ 'freelance' which means I don't get benefits. So I figured half a day's pay was better than none. Pppplllbtt.

My boss is out sick too.

My temperature is 101. Not alarming I know, but still very uncomfortable.
I really require sympathy when I am sick - so I called my mom. Her sympathy was half-hearted. Hard to really work up the pity when your daughter says. "I'm thick." It's too funny.

I called three friends for sympathy and none of them answered. None of them called back. Took every fiber of my being not to call Mr. Burns.

I know.

... and I'm also a drama queen.
Lil' bit.

Weekly Weigh-In

2009-02-03T07:01:00.002-07:00

Now a month into the year, I'm proud to say I lost a total of 2.2 pounds in January (lost an additional 0.3 pounds this week). I'm not making huge progress, but to me, it's more important not to see weight gain during this beginning phase as I'm still working on getting the right habits into place.

Weekend Update

2009-02-01T18:41:00.002-07:00

And no, I'm not talking about SNL.

So, I FINALLY did it. This week for the first time this year I actually worked out 3 times. I had the opportunity of making it four, but I decided to actually use an evening at home as it had been a while. I'm hoping that my weigh-in on Tuesday will reflect this, but I'm afraid I haven't been as good with the eating...

Ronnica accountability: 25 minutes strength exercises Saturday

Water Aerobics

2009-01-28T18:48:00.003-07:00

Last night I went to my first organized exercise class last night: water aerobics. Even the one sport I played in high school (for one year...and I wasn't the second to lowest spot) was a solitary sport: tennis. It was a fun...and harder than I expected. It was a good workout, and at several points I longed for the slower, calmer rhythm of swimming laps.

I'll probably be going to these classes about once a week, which will be a good break from my swimming laps.

Ronnica accountability: 1 hour water aerobics
TRS accountability: nada. at work late tonight

This Past Weekend

2009-01-27T07:21:00.003-07:00

Okay my 3rd attempt at getting 3 workouts in a week was also a failure, but this time it was because of the snow. Always something, isn't it?

I did get in 20 minutes of strength exercises on Saturday, so that was good.

So far this week, I've already been to the pool once and will be going again tonight, this time to water aerobics with my roommate. My schedule just opened up a little bit, so now I may be able to go to the pool for a 3rd time this week!

Today is also weigh-in day. I'm at -1.9, which is just ever-so-slightly less than last week...but I'm happy I didn't go up! I've really been working on making the right food choices. Though I certainly don't do it all the time, I'm improving.

In other news, I also have additional motivation to lose weight...my soon-to-be sister-in-law asked me to be her maid-of-honor in her wedding next January!

Ronnica accountability: Saturday - 20 minutes strength exercises
Monday - 30 minutes swimming (17 laps)

TRS Accountability: Tuesday one hour yoga

Check

2009-01-25T23:37:00.001-07:00

TRS Accountability: Friday -zip, nada;
Saturday 1 hour yoga,
Sunday 1 hour yoga.

Ugh

2009-01-22T23:20:00.002-07:00

I snuck out of work during a slow period today - to go to an afternoon yoga class so that I wouldn't have wait until 7:15.

The schedule indicated it was a yoga sculpt class.

When I got there, got changed and made it to my mat - I noticed the room was really warm. I turned to someone and asked if it was a 'Hot' class. Yep.

Oh no.

I still had to go back to work so I didn't want to be all sweaty. But mostly I was concerned because it's hard enough for me to breathe as it is. In a hot room, it'll be excruciating. And they were going to use weights too!

I was right. This was a class I needed to work up to.
Half way through class (a half hour) I had to pick up my mat and leave!

I took a quick shower before I headed back to work - but I only got a half hour in!

Pllllbbbbttt.

TRS Accountability: 1/2 hour yoga. Grrr.

Weigh-In

2009-01-20T07:27:00.003-07:00

Yep, it's Tuesday. This last week I've not been as good at the eating as I would like, and obviously I didn't make my exercise quota, either. I was nervous to step on the scale, but hey, it's just a number right?

I'm at -1.8. That's a half pound more than last week's -2.3, but still less than ground zero. Yes! Because of the snow, I won't be going to the pool this evening like I planned (Raleigh drivers are maniacs on the snow/ice), so that'll throw off my plans to go to the pool two times this week. I do plan on sticking to my goal of 3 exercise sessions this week, though!

TRS accountability - zip. frustrated because tomorrow may be too busy to get to class, but I had an HOA meeting after work tonight. bah

Mostly Excuses

2009-01-19T10:47:00.003-07:00

So, because of sickness last week, this was the first week where I was able to attempt my 3 workouts/week goal. I didn't quite get there, but I have good excuses, okay?

Saturday I did go on a walk with the roomie, so that was workout 2, but workout 3 didn't quite come together. I had thought I would go on a walk again Sunday afternoon, but then I ate a big lunch was worn out from the kiddies in the morning and wanted to rest up for the kiddies in the evening.

So yeah, that's a lame excuse. I had an above-average active Sunday, but no workout or anything that would actually resemble a workout (since I don't think y'all would by the "well, I WATCHED the kids run around, does that count?" thing).

I'm going to work on going to the pool at least 2 times during the week, so I don't postpone my workouts to the weekend, when I'm lazier and less schedule-driven. This week, I think my schedule will allow it!

Ronnica accountability: 1 20-minute walk Saturday

TRS Accountability: Sunday 1 hour yoga - Monday, all hopes of exercise dashed by epic laziness.

Yoga Hair

2009-01-17T21:26:00.003-07:00

I suppose it's sort of dull checking in to see - 1 hour yoga - over and over. But that's really the best I can do right now.

It is the ideal way for me to build muscle again since I have to do it slowly due to my medical condition. The stretching is so good for me, and I'm noticing a difference since my chiropractic adjustment. This is me getting myself back into decent condition.

What I noticed today, is that even after a few days of seeing improvement - today I was really weak. I could barely hold any of the poses I'm good at. But then a few of the poses that are hard, were a bit easier today. It's interesting to see the ebb and flow.

My tummy is another focus point. I'm a bit flabby there and it's embarrassing to me.
I've never been good at crunches and such - but at class today a different instructor came up with a new one. There's enough going on that I'm distracted from the basic crunch so I thought I would share it here.

Lying on your back, raise your legs straight in the air. Place a yoga block between your legs right at your pelvic area. (if you don't have a yoga block - block of Styrofoam would do, or something the size of a box of Mac & Cheese or box of baking soda)

Now, with your hands behind your head, elbows out - on an exhale, lift your shoulders off the floor then lift your hips off the floor while squeezing the block. Inhale as you release back to the floor.

Ahhhh? Plenty of distraction. That's good for me!

I also thought I would share my yoga hair.
My hair is long for the first time in years - and a ponytail doesn't work for yoga because I don't like the bump on my head when lying on the floor. So I started with pigtails - but they are long enough that they keep hitting my head or my face on inverted poses.

A modification was in order. Princess Lea Buns! First I make pigtails - then I fold the pigtail back on itself and wrap elastics around it again for little knobby buns.

Maybe they look ridiculous - but they're effective and I think they're sort of cute!

TRS Accountability: Friday... Nada.

Saturday: one hour yoga.

Making Time for It

2009-01-15T23:40:00.003-07:00

I've been staying late at work almost every night for the past two weeks just to make the 7:15 yoga class.

It's a little ridiculous.
The yoga studio is just a few blocks from work and I don't want to make a second car trip from home back to the same area. That means I don't get home until at least 8:30 each night - then I don't feel like doing any jobs around the house.

My job is deadline oriented and Thursday's are the big day. One advantage about Thursday's schedule is that I have to wait for someone else to complete part of the job before I can take over and do my part. And, I have limited hours I can work (can't go over 39 hours) so while she was working on that part, I left and went to yoga at 2:00!!!

Awesome. It was less crowded and the studio had the kiss of sunlight streaming in. Very nice!

TRS accountability: One hour yoga

Checkin' In

2009-01-15T18:28:00.002-07:00

I've had a church conference everyday since I've been sick, so this was the first day that I've been able to go to the pool this week. How in the world did I get so busy when I dropped the most time-consuming thing on my schedule? Anyway, it was good to be in the pool for a second time, and it was much easier and more enjoyable than the first time. I look forward to the days when I just can't wait to get back into the pool, but those will still be a few weeks (and many trips to the pool) away.

Ronnica accountability: 30 minutes (16 laps) swimming

Ahhhh

2009-01-14T22:41:00.002-07:00

Wednesdays are my hell day at work. The culmination of the entire week is in the balance on Wednesday. If I'm behind on Wednesday there is no way to catch up - so I couldn't possibly make it to yoga today.

Instead, I started my work day late because I visited my chiropractor this morning.
Oh how I love her!

I feel so. much. better.
Still much improvement neccessary but such a relief to have some relief you know?

Even better because my chiropractor and I are the same personality type so we really enjoy our visits. (too bad I have to pay for them then huh?) She even rejoiced in my news of obtaining a job - and I don't think it was because I can now afford to see her!!
She even told me that she was baffled at my previous discussions of the struggle of looking for work because she sees me as a very sharp person, and people should be begging to hire me. Funny how it doesn't work that way!

TRS accountability: Tuesday, January 13 one hour yoga
TRS accountability: Wednesday, January 14 chiropractic treatment - praise God!

My Second Official Weigh-In

2009-01-13T09:19:00.003-07:00

Still haven't exercised since the last time we "spoke," but did want to give the world an update on my second weigh-in.

I had expected to break even between only exercising once and being sick. Not so. I lost 2.3 pounds! That means I'm at -2.3. It's encouraging to have some weight loss, even though I know that it's primarily because of the sickness...

Getting More People on the Bandwagon

2009-01-12T22:55:00.002-07:00

After missing 3 days of yoga in a row - I went in and bought my first month of unlimited visits. Better make the most of it. Of course, being the Queen of Justification, I tell myself that the cost of yoga is comparable to the cost of chiropractic and massages that I need without it.

I went to class tonight and found more stiff spots. Sheesh! I think it's time to get some help from my chiropractor - there's no way I can loosen that stuff up on my own. I'm hoping she can get the tough stuff and then I can go from there.

Also, it's funny how you can feel progress one day - then suddenly it's hard again - but something that was hard last week is now doable. The body is a funny, fickle thing.

There is an adorable older lady at my job who told me she is interested in trying yoga. She's in her 50s or 60s and recently bought a yoga DVD, but hasn't tried it yet. I advised her to use the modifications if the full pose is too hard. And don't feel like you have to hold it for as long as the instructor. You gotta work your way up sometimes.
Then I suggested that she go to the free classes (the studio is very close to work) so that the instructors can correct her form, and she can ask questions so that she's more comfortable with the DVD at home. She's so cute - I offered to go to her first class with her and she said, "Oh please do!" She's a little bummed that she has to buy yoga clothes and a mat. But she doesn't want to expose herself during Down Dog either! Nothing is cheap she says. (there I advised her to go to TJMaxx or Ross and get all she needs for under $50)

I'm going to hook her up with a week of free classes. Plus, by sending new people to the studio - I get bonus credit on my account there.
AND... another woman at work caught me changing into yoga clothes - and wants to start going again - so we'll have a whole crew there eventually! (maybe we can get the corporate discount going!!)

TRS accountability: One hour yoga and excessive moaning.

Plllbbbtt!

2009-01-12T09:20:00.001-07:00

TRS accountability: Does power shopping and walking downtown in high heels count?

It Expands and Contracts

2009-01-08T21:00:00.003-07:00

One day off from yoga, I was back tonight.

After feeling so good, I am now starting to notice some muscles that just don't want to yield. Yet. I need my chiropractor. I need deep tissue massage. Like every day of my life!

Breathing seems to be harder too. I just can't get enough air in. Maybe I'm congested.

When the instructor tells us to... "breathe deep, filling your belly." I am reminded that I never could do that. I can rarely get enough air to fill past my esophagus - much less all the way down to my belly. I would have to take another breathe before I could finish.
Mental note to share this with my allergy doctor.

When we moved into one stretch, the muscles in my back would not loosen up. They pulled against the direction I was pulling and I made a squeak before I even knew it!

The rest of the time I just wanted to peel my workout clothes off. It's just so hot in there. And I'm not going to the hot yoga class. I tried to think of what fabric, and what length would make the ideal yoga pant!

After class, I apologized to the guy next to me for disturbing him with my squeak.

We chatted for a little while as we rolled up our mats then parted to find our shoes and coats. He found me again at the front of the studio/shop where I was feeling the weight of the yoga pants they had for sale. He inquired and I told him I was looking for something lightweight, and sort of joked that I really only wanted to wear a swimsuit in there it's so hot!
I said that I noticed everyone else was in yoga pants, would it be okay to wear shorts? He described a pair of 'boy shorts' that he saw another girl wearing, suggesting they would be cool enough.
"Hmm." I thought aloud. "I have a pair of those but I need to get my legs firmer before I would wear them in public. "
To which he responded. "Man. You're such a girl!"

The lesson here is - we as women can be so self-conscious about things other people - especially men - don't even notice. Men are much more forgiving of our bodies than we are.
Lighten up on yourself. That's my lesson for the day.

TRS Accountability: One hour yoga

Instant Results

2009-01-07T18:09:00.005-07:00

Okay, okay. So I've been to the pool once; it's not yet time to talk about what a difference it's made in my life. But it has (though the twice daily stretching could also be the cause, or both). I have regained movement that I have lost when I injured my back in September.

In the interest of full disclosure, I figured this out when I went to wipe my butt just now. (DID I JUST ADMIT THAT FOR THE WORLD TO SEE???) It's been a difficult move with stiffness in my lower back, but just now it was much easier. I thought back to several other everyday tasks I've done today, and they too have been easier than they have been for some time.

Anyway, I'm actually cooped up with a cold right now. I started having symptoms after coming home from the pool last night, so I'm glad I went. It'll be a bummer not to get in my last 2 exercise times this very first week, but I hadn't planned on doing them until at least Friday anyway. I do have to be able to breathe out of my nose to swim, but assuming I'm no worse off than I am right now, I'll at least get in a walk or two.

Anyway, I know that my movement will continue to improve as I actually lose some weight and continue to gain flexibility and muscle. That's kinda my point!

Too funny! I was going to post on the same topic! Suppose I should just add to it here.
Seriously people! After only four days of just one hour of moderate yoga a day - I notice such a difference. That is very satisfying when most of us expect the results of our exercise to take months to show up!

What have I noticed, you ask?

For starters, I am a little lady with very tight muscles. The muscles in my shoulders and back have been tight for as long as I can remember. If someone offers to rub my shoulders - it is followed by an exclamation like "Holy Cow! You are full of knots!"
Combine that with the fact that I've been too poor for chiropractic visits or deep tissue massage and I assure you that I am a mess!

After just one hour of yoga on Saturday, my shoulders felt practically loose! After 4 days - I'm feeling movement in a lot of muscles. Yes, I'm a little sore, but that's preferable to a constant ache.

And since Ronnica got personal about wiping her butt - I'll get personal about my little boobies.

I am a flat-chested girl. You know what they say about a handful - well that's all there is.
In my younger years my itty bitty's were at least nice and firm and round and perky - but after 5 years of pathetic exercise efforts - let me tell you they have less substance than Jello. And I'll add, no longer round. It's embarrassing.

That was a major part of my incentive to get my muscle tone back. I'm back in the dating pool after all - and someday - God willing, I'll need those little girls to hold up a wedding gown!

Imagine my delight when after just four days of yoga - seriously, nothing else - not even a 2lb dumbbell - there is some muscle in my pectorals! Whoo hoo! What a surprise.

A real surprise to me because the last time I made a commitment to exercise, I was already a muscular girl, I was just maintaining - so I never really saw progress.
Now that I'm a pile of mush - it's easier to see progress. There is even some shape coming back!! Oh, and I spotted some shape in my arms - that dip right below my bicep. 4 days.

Now that's incentive!

TRS Accountability: zero - I missed yoga because I worked late, but I suppose I've earned 1 day off exercise.

My Soggy Bottom

2009-01-06T17:53:00.003-07:00

Ronnica, reporting for duty, with a soggy bottom, ma'am.

Oh my, I wonder what kinda searches could lead here with that title?

Okay, so my bottom isn't soggy; I actually change at the pool before I leave. But I went! And swam laps! And actually got exercise! And pushed through the "I'm going to die" feeling!

I've found that the first 4 laps of swimming is muy dificil, but once I push through them I really enjoy it. I went 4 laps tonight, and it was still difficult. I wasn't sure I was going to make it to 10 laps (my absolute minimum), let alone more. Fortunately, it only took 1 more lap before that feeling was gone.

I don't feel as spaghetti as I normally do after swimming, so I probably will need to push myself harder next time. How I've done it in the past, and I'll do it in the future, is each time I go I swim one more lap (capping at one mile, which is 32 laps...I've only done that once, though).

Ronnica accountability: 30 minutes swimming (15 laps)
TRS accountability: 1 hour yoga (I'm nothing if not consistent!)

Ground Zero

2009-01-06T07:20:00.004-07:00

It's too early to report in a soggy swimsuit (as TRS suggested), but I did want to share that I weighed myself this morning. Wasn't pretty, but at least I know where I stand, weight-wise. While weight loss isn't my goal in and of itself, it's a tangible measure (a little too tangible in my case) of progress. Though I wouldn't mind looking good, I want the weight off to get healthy. I have a long weigh (hehe, sorry) to go, about 70 pounds, to be within the healthy range. I won't lose that all this year, but I'd love to see 20 pounds go before 2010.

I'm not going to publish for all the world to see my weight, but what I weigh today is going to be ground zero. Every other time I report my weight, it will be - something or other or + someting or other from this point. So I'm pleased to report that I'm at 0 (wow, look how easy it was to take off all those pounds!).

Oh, and that swimsuit that will be soggy tonight? Is sitting in my car, ready for me to go. With swimming, I can't just decide on a whim to do it. I have to make sure my legs are shaved (check) and that I have all my gear (swimsuit, towel, watch, flip flops, hairband...). No skinny dipping for me!

Learning to Breathe

2009-01-05T21:40:00.003-07:00

Another hour of yoga for me today.
I know that I'm going to feel stronger because of it.

One of my challenges is knowing when to breathe. The first time I took yoga classes (eight years ago) the instructor would hear me squeak from the other side of the room. He knew I wasn't breathing. Over time regular class members would hear me squeak - and know that the instructor's gentle reminder, "Breathe T." was coming next. They came to expect it. So much for Namaste!

I was concentrating so hard on the pose and the stretch that I ended up holding my breath. Wrong thing to do.

Now that I'm back in yoga I'm listening carefully to the instructors. The three instructors I've experienced so far are very good about breath reminders. They tell us when to inhale, when to exhale. That's very helpful for a T like me!

I've noticed that when they remind us to take deep breaths, and then exhale - I'm ready to exhale before everyone else is done with their deep breaths. In fact, I take two inhalations/exhalations in the time everyone else takes one.

You might think that I just can't relax. That's partially true.

But this is another revelation for me as I learn about my lung capacity.

In the past 7 years, my allergy doctor and I have determined that one of the causes for anaphylaxis and hives - for me - is exercise related. We've figured out that I get hives when my muscles are sore.
You know the soreness you get when you lift weights and build lactic acid? The production of lactic acid is actually an indicator that you're building muscle. It's a good sign. For most people.

But my body doesn't like my lactic acid. When I produce significant amounts of lactic acid, I get hives. (That's why yoga is a good gentle start for me - it builds muscle s l o w l y)
Once I learned that lactic acid was a culprit for me - I learned that a person's body produces more lactic acid when it's not getting enough oxygen.
Hello Sherlock?

I think we've isolated some important information. I have to work really hard at just breathing.

Although this is an unusual condition, I'm posting this information in hope that it might be helpful to someone else with a similar problem - but doesn't have my brilliant doctor to figure it out for them.

TRS Accountability: one hour yoga

It's Ronnica!

2009-01-05T19:10:00.002-07:00

First, TRS read my New Year's post where I gave all my lofty goals for the year (is it bad to think that they were lofty only 5 days into the new year?), and then she asked if we could be accountable to one another for our exercise goals. Next, she asked me to join this blog in order to keep track. Hmm, maybe I should really just do this.

This is day 5 of the year, but I work in weeks, so today is a sort of Day 1. That said, it was really no different than yesterday. I've got two major health goals: exercise 3x a week and eat better.

I don't diet, and never have. Instead, my plan is to make the better choice. I turn every food option into a choice: I can have a quarter pounder meal or the kid's meal. The kid's meal is better, so I'll eat that. For a snack, I could have a bowl of ice cream, or peanut butter crackers. Peanut butter crackers are better, so I'll have that. You get the idea. (And yes, it's possible to choose between two better options, but lets face it, I've got a long way to go before you could describe what I eat as "healthy.")

I have more to share, but for now I just want to say I WILL BE GOING TO THE POOL TOMORROW. Swimming laps is my exercise of choice, and I will be doing that tomorrow after work.

TRS, you'll hold me to that, won't you? I really don't think I'll do it without that.

Skinny B!tches

2009-01-04T21:06:00.005-07:00

When I joined my first gym - I was greeted upon every visit by a darling woman with a beaming smile. Kisw(code name) worked at the front desk checking members in and distributing towels. Turned out she took the part time job because as an employee she got free use of the gym as a benefit.

She was serious about losing weight.

Kisw had a full round face, twinkling eyes, and the brightest most cheerful smile you can imagine. Like Mrs. Claus or something. But more like an elf - because she only came up to my chin (and I'm only 5'5")
When I met her, she was about a 1/3 the way through her weight loss. She once told me that at her heaviest, she was round. As wide as she was tall. I never saw proof, but took her at her word.

Over a year's time, I would see her on the treadmill when our workouts coincided - and her progress was obvious. One day I noticed a distinct definition between her chin and her neck. I stopped by to talk and told her how great she looked.

Another time, I noticed her waist making an appearance! Again, I stopped and congratulated her on her progress.

It was all so hard for me to imagine. I've never had a weight problem - but as I got older the need to maintain became evident. It's so much work just to maintain - I could never wrap my head around what it takes to lose 20 - 50 - 100 pounds.

I often told her how much I admired her and all of her hard work.
Kisw loved the praise. And apparently she heard it from a lot of people at the gym.
Those of us who saw Kisw occasionally could spot the changes in her body better than she who made daily eye contact with the mirror!

Her friends and family asked her how she could stand going to the trendy downtown gym with all those Skinny B!tches. She replied, "Because it feels AWESOME when all the Skinny B!tches come over and tell you how great you look and how well you're doing!"

To anyone out there who fears the gym or an exercise class because you feel you don't look good enough to be at the gym - don't. No one is judging you. Rather, they are impressed as hell!
If you think they're staring at your size - you're wrong - they're admiring your progress. They're rooting for you!

Accountability: one hour moderately intense yoga

Ahh. That Felt Good

2009-01-03T16:40:00.001-07:00

I went to a free yoga class today.
So. Good.

The pity is - I haven't done yoga in so long that my attempt today was almost pathetic.

When I lived in Omaha, my gym included yoga classes in the membership. So for something like $35 -$40 a month I had access to weights, yoga and a swimming pool among other things that I never bothered to take advantage of. (like aerobics - ick)

I was a convert. I've always had very tight muscles (shoulders, hamstrings) which led to back and hip problems. For years, everyone from my chiropractor to physical therapist to my general practitioner were giving me pamphlets demonstrating the stretches they wanted me to do. Pah. I didn't do them.

Then when I joined the gym, I thought yoga classes sounded good.
Chiropractors and Physical Therapists everywhere were ecstatic! Overjoyed! These were exactly the exercises they wanted me to do and now I was doing them! Success!

And I felt great.

I preached the yoga gospel to everyone I knew. (for the record, I concentrate on stretching yoga - not spiritual yoga so it doesn't conflict with my faith as some people have expressed concern)

So when I moved to Denver I tried a couple yoga classes but they weren't the same as Yoga Gary's class in Omaha.
Some spent half the class on breathing and reminding me to breathe out of my eyebrows.
Shut up. I just want to stretch.

In addition to that, classes charged $7-$15 per class. 3-4 days a week and that adds up when you don't make much money in the first place. So I just stopped doing yoga.
Sure. I bought some DVDs but of course I never bothered to do them.

Today, I went to a place that I found near work. They offer a free one-time class so I thought I'd check them out. Plus I have a decent job now so maybe I can join.

Oh... I was so stiff. Once I got into the positions it felt so good to work out the cobwebs. And the class went a little faster than I'd like - only because I wanted to spend more time in position - stretching to make the most of it.

After class - they offered me a card for 6 days of classes - FREE! The only catch is it's 6 consecutive days - not six classes. So I should be pretty bendy by the end of the week! Whoo hoo.

My Yoga Testimony~
As a kid I took Gymnastics and loved it.
In college, I took a gymnastics class one semester - followed by a modern dance class another semester just for the exercise. Also loved it.
In each of those practices - you warm up with various stretches to keep you limber and flexible.
When I started yoga, I realized that all the stretches were the same. Not only that, but they were the same stretches ALL of my health professionals were trying to push on me.

I also realized that various cultures have been practicing yoga (or something like it) for thousands of years - and it's still around.
Well - hit me with a pitchfork.
Suddenly it was clear.
A body MUST stretch and move to be it's best. If there is a fountain of youth - it is yoga. If you haven't tried it yet, I highly recommend it.

I feel SO good.

Mm. I put my new shoes on...

2009-01-01T15:21:00.001-07:00

Okay. So back in November when I got word that I got a job - I went shopping!!

To celebrate.

I had been on wallet lockdown for so long - that I couldn't even wait to start the job - much less wait for the first paycheck.

I suffered from a serious longing for new shoes... so here is what I bought:

These are purple to go with a simple purple dress that I picked up on clearance at The Gap.

The next pair are black open toe shooties. LOVE them!

I'm Too Cheap to Buy Tools!

2008-09-01T21:45:00.001-07:00

Always have been.

I'm thinking about sewing some purses. (probably only one - maybe two)

But the two patterns I like best, require grommets - which in turn requires a grommet tool (pliers).

Considering my financial situation, it doesn't seem smart to spend money ($20) on 'tools' that I don't really need.

I tried looking on Craigslist. No luck.

I'd probably find a tool like this at a Garage Sale, but that will be hit or miss... and it's probably dangerous as I would find all sorts of other stuff to buy!

Anyone have a grommet tool they want to sell me cheap - or maybe just give me?

Otherwise... maybe I'll just sew button holes... or maybe welted holes. Ohhh that'd be nice if it wasn't so labor intensive.

Such Beauty

2008-08-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

I took my pictures of my expecting friends to my photography mentor, Mel - and she worked a little Photoshop Magic on them.

Before:

After:

Before:

After:

What a gorgeous difference! I still need to learn the art of Photoshop. Sadly, I've had Elements for 2.5 years now... and still haven't installed it on my computer for fear of not having enough memory space. What a waste.

By the way... this beautiful couple isn't expecting anymore! They are now parents to a sweet little girl! Yeah... there will be pictures. Count on it.

One Click at a Time

2008-08-18T23:41:00.000-07:00

One of the resolutions toward My Life Improvement when I started this was to become a better photographer. I recently found a professional photographer to take me under her wing, and I'm excited about learning more.

I've always been good at composing pictures. It's the technical side that needs work for me. So my Mentor is teaching me to use my manual settings... the ISO, shutter speed and cranking that f stop down as low as it can go.

For me, that meant buying a new lens. The two lenses I already had limited my f stop range to 4.
My new 50mm lens came via UPS today so I tested it out on my friends, the expecting parents.

I'm mostly pleased with the results. Can't wait to hear what they think!

How About Something A Little Different?

2008-08-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to think of tomatoes as a crutch.

They're every where. In every dish. I'm thinking a few cooks oughta try challenging themselves and make something without tomatoes for a change. And chicken.

Can you say 'Blah'?

See, I am allergic to tomatoes and chicken, among other things.
So every time I go out to eat I have to skim past anything on the menu with these ingredients. And let me tell you, the food out there that doesn't consist of tomatoes and chicken... is really freaking delicious!

Friends with whom I dine often look at my plate with envy. If I give them a taste, they swoon. But they always order something with tomatoes and chicken.

BORING!

Favorite Things: Step Stool

2008-07-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

Time for another one of my favorite things.

As an adult who is 5 feet 5 inches tall (no matter what my doc's asst. says - so rude!) I need a bit of assistance to get items from the top shelves of my cupboards and other places in my house.
I had put off buying the much needed step tool for many years.
Most things in the stores are plastic and ugly. In fact I had one of those. Meh.

Until one day, puttering around a favorite antique store I found this:

Glory!

How cute. It screams 70s to me and I love the lifetime of wear on the front edge of the step!
Only on one side though! Which tells me that this step tool lived with one owner and one house and probably stayed in one place it's entire life.

Now it has come to my home to help me and look fabulous in the process.

By the way, I also love my kitchy all metal kitchen cabinets! Aren't they fab?

Laundry Rudeness

2008-07-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

I live in a 22 unit condo building run by an HOA (home owners association).

We are all rather neighborly and kind to one another, but we have a few folks who treat the laundry room as if it is not a shared space.
I won't get into the drippy messes and loads of dog hair some people leave behind. What really bothers the rest of us is the laundry they leave sit for days, weeks, even months.

??? I don't understand.

See, we purchased brand new machines about two years ago, and painted and tiled the laundry room which also serves as the back entrance of the building.
We even bought and installed lockers for everyone to store their detergent and laundry money without hauling it up and down the stairs.

Nice huh?

We figured the cheerful paint job and aesthetically pleasing decor would encourage people to take pride in the space - as well as make it an attractive entry area.

But someone keeps piling up their crap - which gets in the way of our cleaning service for one thing! And is really annoying to the rest of us for another.

No pics of the mess available to share with you.

Am I wrong? Isn't this rude?

I mean, I can understand if you started a load of towels and forgot about them overnight. But how do you forget your sheets for a month? A cute outfit for three weeks? Bizarre.

I'm on the board so I'm asserting my power.

We have posted warning signs like this:

sorry, the text got cut off in the conversion process.

And I just pinned this on two different piles today.

Be honest, would this bother you? Am I out of line? Or is the laundry dumper?

SHOES!

2008-06-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Some friends complimented me on my comfy summer sandals.
Um... are you sure? These are my old lady sandals!

They're Naturalizers - the brand my mom wears.

(wow! I never noticed how flat and big and ugly my feet look in these shoes until I took this picture. Uhh.)

I only bought them (and two other pair of Naturalizers) last summer. I was having a problem with my hip and my doc told me to ditch the heels for a while.

As I explained this to my friends - with vivid details of whining about having to shelve all my three inch heels - one girl interjected,

"You're the only person I know who would complain about NOT wearing heels."

1) Uh. How many women do you know?
&
2) Clearly, I live in Colorado now!

I looked at the feet around me. All six tootsies were bedecked with flip flops. (er - aren't those for the shower? Or maybe getting the mail?) Oh. and excuse me. Not flip flops. Chacos.
$80 flip flops with arch support. Are you kidding me?

I would never spend $60 - $80 on shoes that I feel I couldn't wear out of the house!
Okay, I could wear 'em with yoga pants. All my other pants would drag on the ground. 3 inch heels required for all of them!

My attitude toward athletic shoes is similar. $60 - $120 for shoes limited to one category of clothing?!!! Workout clothes.

Please. With my shopping habits (TJMaxx, Department Store clearance racks) that's like 5 pairs of heels that would go with everything!

Everything:
Jeans
Slacks
Skirts
Dresses &
Shorts

Yeah... everything. Work, church, parties, shopping. All very practical.

Now that I live in Colorado, I actually need athletic shoes. And as I'm learning... not just one pair. One pair for the gym - cross trainers I guess, so that I can suck at my attempts at tennis.
And another pair for trail hiking. It is the mountains after all.

I hate shopping for athletic shoes. I'd rather have a root canal than shop for athletic shoes. I've had a root canal. Not so bad. I don't see the big deal.

Athletic shoes? Ugh. No.

They're so uncomfortable. It seems I lost my arch after years of wearing cute shoes. Now shoes with arch support feel as if though there's a boiled egg in my shoe. If the arch feels okay then something else feels terribly wrong, tight or bumpy. Ugh.

But, a hot pair of heels - they're always just right.
It is a fact that I can run just as fast and probably more gracefully in three inch heels than I can in a pair of sneakers.

But I will acquiesce - that the gym, the tennis court and mountain trails are really no place for high heels. And to be honest, my heels wouldn't go with those outfits anyway.

An Aside: Colorado is so much more casual than other places/cities. It's all Columbia trail pants and t-shirts and fleece all the time.
When I first moved here, and went to the mountains with my girlfriends... I took normal 'going out clothes' along for evenings. Everyone told me I was too dressed up for those rugged, rustic bars. And it's true. Guys here dig on girls who can rock the jeans - t-shirt - tennis shoe look.
Well... skinny, flat-chested girls like me can't really work it in that outfit! My friend who moved away from Denver before I moved here warned me it would be like this! She couldn't take it either!
And... after viewing Sex and the City last night with my other girlfriends... all dressed to kill... one of them noted that NO ONE in Satc EVER wore jeans (or sneakers I might add).
I rest my case.

The Return of Great Style?

2008-06-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a catalogue filled with the most beautiful clothes made of soft sweet fabrics and colors in flattering comfortable cuts - that both my mom and I adored!

That was quite a feat circa 1989-1991 - to find clothing that mom and I agreed on! But Tweeds Inc managed it! They had cute, sassy - yet classic looks for me - and tall sizing for mom - a priority for she with long legs and arms - always tricky to fit.

Mom and I would pour over the pages, and pick out a few items so we could share shipping. I was in college by then - the first time we didn't share an address.

Recently, my mom - she who is not Internet savvy - asked me to search for some clothing catalogues featuring 'Tall' sizing and sign her up on their mailing lists. That's my task for today - since reminded me of the request in our last phone conversation.

The Tweeds catalogue mysteriously disappeared. I still have a few issues tucked away. Sometimes I take them out and fantasize about clothing so rich and creamy and soft.
I remember those pages were the first where I saw clothing colors described as 'Eggplant', 'Grass' and 'Wheat'. Their take on a t-shirt was so original and classic and flattering that added shipping costs were justifiable! I loved everything Tweeds. Comparable to many of the items found at today's Anthropology - but not as heavily priced - eek!

Again today... I searched the Internet for possible links to Tweeds. All I find are past articles of the company's demise. Not a lot of information there either.

Yet - I am encouraged. On trips to TJMaxx in the past 8 months... I've found a few items with the Tweeds label. Be still my heart. It's the same tell-tale classic styling and great fabrics. These can't be clothes from some warehouse that closed 15 years ago - can they? I take it as an indication that Tweeds is nurturing a comeback - and these items on the rack at TJMaxx are harbingers of great styling - about to be reintroduced to the masses.

May we bow our heads in prayer - of hope and thanksgiving...

Does anyone have insider skinny of a come-back? Anyone?

Meanwhile... any recommendations for catalogues for Tall women like my mom - that might even feature large shoe sizes? I hooked Mom up with Eddi* Bau*r - J J!ll- Ch!cos and Co!dwater Cr**k. Every other tall size provider seemed to cater to 20-something clubbers! How strange - manufactures seem to think that tall women shrink down to 5'7" once they reach age 65. No wonder my mom and her sisters have such a rough time with pants!

Faith. Life.

2008-05-30T16:48:00.001-07:00

I'm a Cradle Catholic. Immersed in the faith from the day of my baptism. Twelve years of Catholic School reinforced the beliefs my parents worked so hard to instill in me. Until I went to college, I truly believed that everyone wanted to be Catholic. That they envied us. Don't ask me why then, that I didn't question that they didn't all just convert.

My Western Civilization classes knocked some wind out of my faith filled sails. The classes exposed bits of history that were glossed over in 12 years of Catholic School. History that reflected very poorly on the institution of the Church. On top of that, going to Mass every Sunday was decidedly not fun and indeed boring. So like many young people, I floundered with my faith a bit in my college years.

Oddly enough, my brother got me back on track before graduation. He asked me to be his oldest daughter's Godmother - but only if I started going to church again. That was all it took.

Years of work and dating - miserable dating followed. Relationships don't last long when you're abstinent. I often had to defend my beliefs. More often than not - others dismissed my faith and following of commandments to be silly and pointless.

I never understood the perspective of people without faith until I heard one of them refer to faith and religion as 'a fairy tale'.
Whoa.
Seriously?!
Well, now I knew just how far fetched they found it. I felt so sad for them.
They see it all as a waste of time. We're oppressing and denying our physical needs and urges for a fairy tale. Hmm. Now I see why they are so confused.

One of the only ways I have been able to describe the importance of faith, and that it is indeed a choice... not brain washing is to compare it to health.

Most of us know that to take the best care of our bodies, we should eat healthy food. We should get off the couch and exercise. Those who are really dedicated to their bodies cut out carbs and lift weights or run 10 miles a day. They do what it takes to be fit and stay healthy. They don't even see it as a sacrifice.

It's the same for your soul.

Bad out. Good in.

It's not some regimented denial of pleasure... it is instead... doing what is best for - not your body - but your soul.

I go to Mass because it nourishes my soul. I abstain from sex because it keeps me pure. I follow the commandments - because - following my analogy - it keeps me from getting fat, ruining my cholesterol, or clogging my arteries.

I know many people who go to great lengths to follow their healthy diet, train for a marathon, chisel their abs - yet mock me for maintaining my soul.
Meanwhile, I wonder how they can put so much effort into their earthly shell while ignoring the one part of their earthly presence that will actually make it to an after-life.

And I'm the one who is silly?

Up in Flames

2008-05-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

Wow. My neighbor is causing trouble again. This time- it was very dangerous!

The woman who lives below me is not mentally stable. She's very hard to live with... but we're a condo - she's a homeowner like the rest of us, so it's not like we can evict her.

Last night I came home around 10:00 and all my neighbors were standing outside. What's going on? Miss M. They said. I started looking around at the building for noticable damage - the last big incident involved a broken entryway mirror and landscaping bricks through two car windshields.

No. They said. There was a gas leak coming from her unit. They called E*xcel Energy - and the guy with a meter detected 15% gas in the hallway. He said 10% was combustable. In her kitchen, at the source of the leak from her stove, the meter read 40%.

Okay. That's not her fault. Except she was sitting on her couch - drunk off her gourd - smoking a cigarette! How do you not notice that your apartment is full of gas while you have a fire stick in your mouth?!?!? Thanks for blowing up the building Miss M!

Not only that. The guy from E*xcel told her she had to put out the cigarette and she asked Why? After he finally got her to extinguish the bugger, he turned around and she was lighting up another! He took the cigarette right from her mouth!

At least now we can prove that she is a danger to herself AND others. Maybe we can make some progress.

Our laws are very protective of the mentally ill. And that's a good thing. The only problem is - those same laws sometimes make it very difficult to get them help. And to protect the innocent.

What if she'd have blown the place up?!? Holy cow.

Uh... I don't think you can help me.

2008-05-21T22:29:00.000-07:00

I'm still adjusting to the constant varying temperatures in Denver. I just can't get a handle on the 'dress in layers' theory. Even in the summer. If you're wearing a sundress or shorts and a tank top - you have to bring a jacket if you are staying out past 5:30 - I just can't buy enough light sweaters to go with every outfit.

I think most women in Colorado manage with clothes from REI. This doesn't work for me. I was raised in the Midwest. Everything has to be an outfit. I need to look cute and I don't feel cute in t-shirts and fleece. (in the Midwest, I could wear one outfit all day long. if it was 95 degrees when you left the house, it won't be any cooler than 90 after dark! Plus the humidity held the heat around me like a shawl. I must be the only person who really appreciates humidity for that reason!)

So in lieu of matching sweaters and hoards of fashionable jackets I carry a wrap or pashmina with me nearly all times. It's just enough to wrap around my shoulders to ward off the chill when the sun dips behind the mountains (or if a place happens to be air conditioned).

Still, in the quest for having the right jacket or cover for all occasions, I decided I needed a cute trench coat for spring. It would be perfect for church or anything bordering on slightly formal.

I looked all over town. It had to be affordable since my job situation is tight. Both TJMaxx and Ross had moved on from jacket season so no luck there. I saw a really cute trench in the window of Ann Taylor Loft, but it was about $190 and it wasn't very flattering for my figure.

So I went to the outlet mall and poked into a few stores.

In one of them, a young sales girl came up to help and asked what I was looking for. "I'm looking for a light weight spring trench." said I.

When she replied with, "What do you mean?" I was stymied.

Light. Spring. Trench.

I'm plum out of descriptors there sweetie. If you don't know what I'm talking about - you probably shouldn't be working in clothing.

I just stood there for a while trying to think of another way to say it, then I repeated, "A light weight spring trench coat."

"Oh. Like a trench coat?"

Oh boy.

this picture is just a diagram. I ended up finding something really cute at Kohl's - and ended up spending under $25! Whoo hoo. Maybe I'll take a photo of it... I can't find it online.

More Favorite Thing(s)

2008-05-13T12:00:00.001-07:00

I don't cook or bake much so finding some favorite things in the kitchen is kind of a surprise!

When I lived in Omaha, my parents visited one weekend and we trolled around some estate sales.
This is a great activity with my parents because mom and I get to shop and dad gets to be around old stuff and talk to strangers (also old).
The best part of this activity is getting the stories from dad. He'll see some old tools or something like a wet stone and then regale me with stories of his childhood, sharpening knives, almost cutting someone's finger off.
I love taking him to antique stores because he can tell me the origination of anything and has a story about it - and then a sidebar story in addition. I love that (if you wondered about my tendancy to wander in storytelling, that's where I got it)!

Anyway, we're at an estate sale. 60 years of one woman's kitchen goods are spread out on card tables. Pyrex bowls, glass refrigerator dishes, untouched dish towels... everything.

Mom called me over to a table and said, "Don't you want a set of measuring cups just like mine?"

I didn't know it until then, but I did!

I love these measuring cups because you know they are precise for all those old recipies. They're stainless steel so they're indestructable. The simple styling puts function above form... but the form is cool too.

And mostly, I love them because every time I need a measuring a cup I'm reminded of my mom. It's like having her cups - but they're mine.

Pots O Peppers

2008-05-09T18:19:00.000-07:00

Time for an update on my plot to plant peppers.

Here they are today. I transplanted them into pots yesterday.

I wonder if I'm wasting my time transplanting them into gradually larger pots. By the time they're ready for Mr. Burns patio they'll have to be in BIG pots. Don't you think?

After the first transplant... I planted another batch of tomato seeds to start.

Then guess what? Just as I was about to discard the previous tomato attempt... look what I found.

Two tiny little tomato plants trying to make a name for themselves!
Tres exciting.
Maybe they don't hate me after all.

Borrow a Cup of Sugar?

2008-05-04T21:58:00.000-07:00

I live in a small condo building. It's actually a converted apartment building so it's small and cozy.
There are six units on my floor and we're very neighborly. We share internet service. Throw BBQs together in the courtyard. Last year during the blizzard we combined our resources and shared a meal together - sort of a picnic in the hallway. So neighborly requests are often honored.

The other night I was on the phone with Mr. Burns when I heard a knock at the door. I opened the door and saw my neighbor - and motioned silently that I was on the phone and I'd check in with her later.
She motioned silently back - and I once I understood her message I burst out laughing.

She was waving a dollar bill, asking to buy a roll of toilet tissue from me!

With a request like that... you can't take payment. If someone is down to their last square glued to a near empty roll - you can't be stingy!

Veggie Surprise

2008-04-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

Last summer Mr. Burns and I would walk down the bike path along the creek outside his condo to get to the farmers market. Seriously the location is amazing - and what a great way to shop for food!

We could pick up a weeks worth of bell peppers, fresh corn and tomatoes (for him- I'm allergic to tomatoes.) and other salad and sandwich fixings for a crazy low price + a nice walk in the sun.

On the way back, he would wax poetic about how great it would be to grow tomatoes on his patio. I looked up some container gardening plans on the Internet and showed them to him. But like most things, he left it at an idea.

Well, shortly after Easter I got the idea to start some plants for him. Rather than buy a starter kit I just planted seeds from my most recently consumed peppers in a shallow take-out dish from Tokoyo Joe's. The lid served as a terrarium. I had to buy tomato seeds - and planted them in another container.

Here's what I have so far:

Mr. Burns likes Green peppers the best - so of course the Orange and Red ones came in first and fast and frenzied! I just opened the lid again today and was thrilled to find a couple little plants in the Green section!

The tomatoes on the other hand:

refuse to grow. Is this their way of saying they don't like me either? My body doesn't like them, so they won't grow for me!

I'm going to move the pepper plants to some small pots - then I'll use that container to try tomatoes again. I am just worried that I'll kill them by putting them in pots. The terrarium effect is so low maintenance... if I have to be responsible for watering them I'm likely to kill them.

I'm going to wait to Mr. Burns what I've done. He's been working out of town a lot lately so I'll wait til things calm down and he can be expected to be home to water them.

Aww. Look at my cute little veggie friends!

In this shot you can just make out the two little green pepper plants in the upper right corner!

Another Favorite

2008-04-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

To go along with my resolutions to entertain more - I discovered the need to have more plates available at my house. (I've never been married so I never acquired a full set of dishes - I've been using the same set of 4 dinner plates, 4 salad plates since college!!)

I usually keep things simple - serving kabobs and various appetizers, cut fruit and veggies. What is important to me is the people. My people don't care if everything looks perfect - just keep their glasses and their tummies full!

But, what I can't bear is the thought of 1) serving my guests off of paper plates - tacky!!! and 2) the guilt of tossing paper plates in a landfill just 'cuz I hate doing dishes!

So, leading up to my housewarming party I browsed some antique stores and found these old glass party plates.

Over time, I've added to my collection. All glass party plates and dessert bowls! The bowls are curvy and heavy and lovely. Not heavy, just solid with a nice heft.

Anytime I'm in an antique store I keep an eye out for more. At an estate sale last fall, I found a set complete with the corny little zippered case! How kitschy is that!

And, I pick them for about the same price as a package of new paper plates - but these are reusable.

You should see the adorable 50s finger sandwich plates complete with punch cups I picked up last summer. Maybe I'll share if I dig that box out sometime soon.

Last summer I hosted a Sunday Brunch in my building's courtyard. Many people gasped when they realized I wasn't using paper plates! Not what they expected I guess - especially since it's enough trouble carrying the food and such down three flights to get outside! But, I think it's wrong to eat from paper and plastic. Won't happen at my house!

I only wish I had enough to serve the crowd at dad's birthday BBQ.

It's gonna kill me to use paper plates, no matter how apropos for a BBQ.

Good Times at the Ranch

2008-04-23T22:05:00.000-07:00

My brother tends to plan things without thinking them through.

When he brought his family out to visit and ski last month, it took him another week after he returned home to tell me that he's planning a big surprise party for Dad's 75th Birthday.

Gee man, I'm glad you told me - so that I can arrange to be home for it!!!

Well, this is an occassion.
My family tends to keep things simple - so my suggestion to make appropriate invitations was way out there!

Until I came up with this:I love, love, love them!
I think my brother really likes them too. I made them up to be mailed as postcards. The detailed information is on the business side. I mailed the majority to relatives, but my brother will just hand out the rest to folks at home... neighbors, parishoners etc.

I really like how they turned out - except the printer surprised me with the white border. I didn't want - or ask for - the white border. I think that's what he thought of when I said "postcard" though I wish he hadn't.

When he sent me jpgs of the mock ups - I was opening them on a white background so I didn't notice! Boo hiss!

Oh well. No sense wasting more paper and resources just to eliminate the weird little border.

Favorite Things

2008-04-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

I'm swiping an idea from another blogger. KC Masterpiece started blogging about some of her favorite things. Things she already has, in an effort to appreciate what she has, and as I took it... to help curb the want for new things.

I think it's a great idea. And so I'll start with a few of mine:

When I look around my home, I notice that my favorite things are mostly antiques. Oddly enough, recently acquired antiques!

I picked up this lovely little number at an antique store last year.

I can't imagine my love for this little vase ever waning!

Seriously.

What's not to love?

The color - beautiful. The texture - amazing!

And if you look closely you'll notice that while the base of the vase is square, the mouth is a triangle. Now that's sneaky!

I really think it is one of the most beautiful things in my home and I can't imagine ever growing tired of it!

The same can be said for my beautiful credenza. I picked it up about 1 1/2 years ago. I searched for YEARS after I moved into my condo for the right piece of furniture for my living room. Oh baby, is this it! I tucked my little tv, vcr and dvd player in the center door. No ugly tv as a focal point in my living room.

For your true appreciation of this beauty... I must point out the very cool Atomic knobs!

How cute!

Oh... actually these are the best photos I have of the credenza - but I must share that I finally moved that old rug to the bedroom and replaced it with a beautiful shag that I found for a steal - so my living room looks more like this now:

Improvement eh?

Now I'm working on the right placement for accessories to display on the credenza. A new sofa is next.

I'm getting there. That will be another Favorite things feature in the future.

A Better Campaign Strategy

2008-04-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

I was discussing the current presidential campaign with my dad today. Somewhere in the conversation I was reminded of this man who was in my social circle for a while a few years ago. He was involved in local politics and considering a run for governor.

I got to know him through a guy I was dating at the time.

So over a period of several months I got to know this guy since we were invited to the same dinners and parties. Actually, he was usually the one hosting the party. Nonetheless, I learned that he’s a very smart guy, with great plans, and a big heart. I believed this guy would do really good things if he had the chance to hold office.

He did throw his hat in the ring. He would have had a pretty good shot at getting elected too. But a few months later, he explained over dinner that he just couldn’t bear spending all that money on a campaign. Don’t get me wrong. He could afford it. He’s a self made millionaire a few times over. But he told us that he’d rather contribute his money to the programs he believed needed investment – than blow it on a campaign which he saw as a waste.

If only more civic minded people thought like him.

So today it occurred to me: Wouldn’t it be great if we could change the way campaigns are conducted? What if a candidate was allowed to raise money, but instead of spending it on campaign ads and travel - an enormous campaign budget … they were charged to put that money into programs they believed in. Do you really think universal health care is possible? Show us a program. Throw your money at it. Make it work. Make us believe.

Then we (the voters) could see what they really stand for – where their mouth and money really go! Then we decide who gets the job!

It would certainly be better than the political machine we endure right now. We don’t really know what anyone stands for - or what sort of leader they would be.

Coupled with the fact that most of the donations to a candidates' campaigns are really just lobbying efforts. They're funding the candidate, buying the candidates support for their issue.

With my theory, we might actually get a decent glimpse at their heart before we blindly put someone in office just because they are less offensive than the other guy or gal.

Man… what I would give to see that work!!

Life Checklist

2008-04-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

I got the itch about a month ago to purge more stuff from my closets. I decided to weed through some boxes of paperwork and clippings.

In one of the boxes I found a list in my own handwriting.
It has no title but after a brief review it's plain to see it was a list of things to accomplish, to do more, or to try something new. I'm not sure when I composed the list, but judging from it's contents it must have been prior to the year 2000.

Study Spanish
Travel
Gym
Biking
Roller blading
Sewing
Teaching a CCD class
Throw parties
Study a Martial Art
Gymnastics
Ice Skating
Have a kid anyway
Become a consultant
Buy & Use a real camera
Play Tennis
Freelance Writing

I can check five entries on the list. Should I be pleased or bummed?

It really blew my mind to find this list and realize what is still important to me, what I've accomplished, what doesn't matter any more.

I hope you find a list. Barring that, make one now!
When you find it a few years from now you'll present yourself with a great perspective to view your life!

Read on for progress details if you're interested:

I studied Spanish in College but never really took to it. This is a reminder to give it another try.

Travel. Success in this department. In fact, I get partial credit for Freelancing as well. A couple years ago I started a job contracting with a production company as a Field Producer. They sent me all over the country and I wrote for about 1/3 of them. I think I knocked out visiting 16 different states (that I'd never traveled to before) in that job. Still haven't left the country though - unless Jamaica counts.

Next, I have joined a gym, three in fact since then. I'm off the wagon at the moment.

I also started to bike more, though not much. When I first started dating Mr. Burns, he took me on my first lengthy bike ride in about 3 years. I must have been a little chicken since the spectacular bike crash in 2003. I managed to land on my chin, split it open AND break a tooth requiring my first crown and periodontal surgery! My chin needed 11 stiches!

(to the left >>- self portrait of my banged up body after the crash. Not that bad really. Since the major damage was to my teeth!!)

Mr. Burns took me on a pretty easy, paved trail, and at one point I said, "This is probably a good place to turn around." He said, "aw, let's keep going." Oh crap! But when you're trying to impress a guy you like - injuries to delicate areas of your body be damned!!

I bought Roller Blades when I first moved to Denver, and very much enjoy it if I can drag myself to Wash Park!

Sewing. I've sewn since childhood so this was obviously an encouragement to do more of it. That comes in spurts because I'd really like to have an extra room dedicated to sewing projects.

I did teach a CCD class. I remember the church organizers thought I was crazy when I said I wanted the 16-year-olds!

I did start to throw more parties. I love entertaining! That's been put on hold in this period of unemployment. Wah!

Martial Arts and ice skating are on hold. I looked into a gymnastics class at a local college, since I did it for PE credit in my college years. Considering my age, they offered to have me come try out a class before I signed up. I'm pretty sure that's what led to the big hip blow out of 2007!! I didn't sign up.

Don't you love "Have a kid anyway"? Clearly I was frustrated by the lack of male prospects! I showed this to Mr. Burns and like a guy he asked, "What do you mean by 'anyway'?" That means without a man. I was nearly age 30 and there were no boyfriend/ husband prospects. If no one is going to show up, it doesn't mean the desire to be a mom goes away!

I think becoming a consultant is probably out the window. Darn. I hear it pays well and involves travel!

Buy and use a real camera.

I was refering to an SLR. I did finally save up and buy a digital SLR in 2006. I love my baby!! And since then some friends have asked me to photograph their weddings.

I'd like to eventually make a living with my photography. It is one thing that makes me very very happy and gives me feelings of accomplishment.

Play Tennis. Well, I took lessons when I was in college but never played a game. Last summer Mr. Burns tried to teach me, but my bad hip (see gymnastics) made it really tough. I feel better this year, we'll try again in the summer.

Freelance writing, see above.

My (very long) Diatribe on Rotten People

2008-03-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

There are days that really shake my faith in humanity.

Working at a chain portrait studio, I see many families and parents interactions with their kids. To be honest, most people are great with their kids, but those who are not really make me question what is going on in the world - and more specifically - why God even allows some people to reproduce.

Sigh.

Easter was a great example. Three women came in with the intention of getting a picture of all their nieces and nephews together for the first time. There were twelve kids ranging from 17 years old to one year old. One of the boys I’m guessing was around six or seven years old and appeared to have Down Syndrome. He was adorable and very sweet, but easily distracted.

Once I had all the kids arranged for a photo, this little guy noticed his cousin's pig tails with those big round bauble bands. He reached out to touch the baubles and the gathered hair, and instantly all the grownups shouted, “Stop touching her! Leave her alone!” That seemed harsh to me but I minded my own business.

We got him settled and posed again, and he went for an older girls’ earrings. She spun her head around and screamed, “Don’t touch me! Stop touching me!” and the adult women joined in chastising the boy for being naturally curious.

Everyone settled again so I could finally snap the first picture. “Okay everyone, big smiles.” At that point the three year old boy in the front scrunched up his face and became nothing but teeth! Hilarious! I was about to approach him and show him how to turn down his smile but his mom got to him first. She stuck her finger in his face, gritted her teeth and yelled, “DON’T you make your face like that. YOU TRY TO LOOK NORMAL! Or I'm gonna.... ”

Holy cow lady! The kid is three. That’s not going to make him smile.

Sure enough, big fat tears roll down his now, bright red face. His face is really scrunched up now. Thanks for making my job easier. That’s not my real concern. I’m more concerned about how these kids are treated at home.

But now that I have a bawling kid, I turn to the magic trick I discovered for three year olds with over-anxious parents. I grab a tissue, get down on the kid’s level and hand it to him. “That’s okay buddy. I’ll wait for you to dry your face. You let me know when you’re ready okay?”

I’ve found that this allows the kid to regain some of his/her personal power. They dry up much faster and screw up their courage to find their inner big kid. While I wait, I contemplate strangling their parents. Argh!

Next I sat down at the computer to work on the photos while the family waited. The little boy with Downs came over to watch and ask questions. I pointed to him in the pictures and said things like, “There’s a picture of you. Don’t you look handsome?”
His mom came over and said, very curtly, “Leave the lady alone!!”
I didn’t even look at her. If I made eye contact I might rip her head off. I said, “Oh he’s fine right here. We’re having a good time.”

Now I can understand that a kid with a disability can be frustrating. I sympathize with anyone faced with the challenge. But this kid wasn’t being difficult. He wasn’t even being challenging. He was acting like a four-year-old in a seven-year-old body.

What I can’t understand is the boy’s own family treating him so badly. I don’t condone it but I understand someone who has never encountered a kid with a disability treating them less than humanely – but the kid’s own family? I can’t wrap my head around it.

Forget the disabilities. There are plenty of parents out there who are just plain idiots.

Case in point - a couple who came into the portrait studio with their two-year old daughter a while back. Things went about as well as you can expect a photo session with a 24 month old kid to go.

Ever since I started taking kid’s pictures I have declared that photographing two-year-olds is ‘ambush photography’. They don’t stay still for more than a millisecond; their attention span is only twice as long as that. Just shoot and hope you get something!

As you can imagine, they didn’t get many pictures. My co-worker shot the session and the girl kept running into my camera room to see the cute baby boy.

Anyway, as the parents waited for my co-worker to edit and enhance the pictures the dad kept saying to the little girl. “You disappointed mommy.” “We wanted to buy a lot of pictures for your grandparents, but you didn’t do a good job. Now we can only buy one picture.”

WTH?!?!? You’re laying a guilt trip on a TWO-YEAR-OLD??! For what… acting like a two year old? She didn’t do anything bad. She’s two!

He didn’t just say it once. He nagged and nagged about it. To a 2-year old!!!

They had about a 20 minute wait, so dad had to wrangle her for a little while. Because, like a typical two-year old, she was exploring everything. She went over to another little boy – just curious – that’s what kids do – and dad starts in with. “Leave that boy alone. He doesn’t want you to bother him.”

At this point I spoke up. Without looking at him I said. “Wow, you’re really getting her ready for therapy in fifteen years aren’t you?” He found it funny and agreed.

Ugh.

Then she wandered across the hall where there was another kid. Dad went after her and in a few minutes called to his wife, “Come get her. She won’t go.” The wife called back. “Yes she will.” “No she won’t. You have to come get her.”

Seriously. First you micromanage every move she makes. Then you can’t function like an adult and have power over your child? Why do people like this even get to reproduce?

Poor kid.

Later that night I stopped into a video store after 10:00pm. There was a little girl following her mom around as she looked for movies. Check that. The kid was bossing her mom around. At all of 2.5 feet tall she couldn’t be more than four years old.

First of all: What is she doing up and out at 10pm? I’m not a parent so maybe this is reasonable to someone else. Please enlighten me.

Suddenly she was behind the checkout counter clacking away on a keyboard. I caught her eye and said kindly, “Should you be touching that? Do you think it might mess something up?” “No.” she said.

There was a worker behind the counter and he didn’t seemed bothered by her behavior. I figured maybe he knew her mom.

Then she went over to the next computer and started clacking. The man said, “Don’t touch that one sweetheart. It’s a special computer.”
“Yeah” she said, “special for kids.”

This is not precocious. This is a child that doesn’t know boundaries. I know that my brother and sister and I and all of our cousins would never have DREAMED about going behind the counter in a store! Not even in my uncle’s grocery store. Not in a million years!! We wouldn’t even open our aunt’s refrigerator for a soda. It’s just not done.

At the portrait studio, we have a stash of DVDs in a file drawer to entertain the kiddos. One day while a family was waiting their turn, the kids (like age five or under) walked right up to the file drawer, opened it and took out a movie.

I was astonished! Who does that?

I know kids today are being raised with a sense of entitlement… but jeepers… no boundaries.

I know. It’s easy for me to say. I don’t have children so I can’t know what it’s like. But come on. They’re little people. Plus, I was a kid once. It’s not that hard to remember what it’s like in their little shoes.

But here I sit - 37, single and childless – and these morons get to breed. I need to start praying for them every night.

It's all downhill

2008-03-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

Oh am I sore!

I finally got to go skiing for the first time in THREE YEARS! Even better – I got to go with my 17 year old niece, L.

It all started when I told my family that I wasn’t coming home for Christmas. The proverbial shh hit the fan. I reminded them that the interstate runs both East AND West and they are welcome to come out here any time. I mentioned to my niece in particular that I have mountains here, and that most people actually consider them quite appealing and worth a 10 hour drive.

I also reminded my brother that since I left home in 1988 he has never come to any town that I have lived in to visit me or see my home. Isn’t that all kinds of wrong?

About a week later my brother called saying that he thought about what I said. He realized on top of that, that he has never taken his kids on a family vacation either. It’s about time to teach them to ski before the oldest leaves home.

Yee haw.

ey drove out on Thursday, got everyone lessons on Friday, then Mr. Burns and I joined them on Saturday to ski at Breckenridge.

Niece L is a most promising skier. Mr. Burns is a great teacher and unbelievably patient. Quite frankly I feel he could coach anyone in anything! So Mr. Burns and I took Niece L up some Green/Blues (yeah on the second day she ever wore skis!) and Mr. Burns guided her out of the ridiculous snow plow position that the instructors teach beginners.

Pretty soon, she was turning naturally, gaining control and displaying great instincts. I was so proud! The kid is rock star!

Poor thing though, she worked so hard that she is terribly sore – sporting bruises and believes she threw her back out. But she’s thinking about coming to Colorado for college so I couldn’t be happier!

Also, this was the first time anyone in my family got to meet Mr. Burns. They were appropriately impressed by his kindness and good nature. My mom reports that my brother told her in a phone conversation that Mr. Burns is a really nice guy – undoubtedly a man of great quality. Since Mom hasn’t met him yet, she was so thrilled to hear this!

Since we spent the most time with Niece L, she really seems to like him too! (Niece T and Nephew C were under their parents’ wings on the mountain.) She was so grateful for his patience as a teacher and she managed to gang up with him to pick on me… so that’s a great sign.

Yay!

Easter Joy

2008-03-26T20:50:00.000-07:00

I missed the joy and the glory of Easter this year.
Normally I look forward to the pure joy of the resurrection of Christ. Particularly after a long and arduous Lent. I expect to feel renewed.

This year – I got nothing. I was scheduled to work all day Sunday and it really messed with my joy. You’re not supposed to work on Easter. You’re not supposed to put other people in a position to work on Easter. Remember the days when everything was closed on Sundays? No one DREAMED of being open on Sunday, much less a significant religious holiday!

Anyway, I woke up annoyed that I had to work as soon as Easter Mass was over and it was all downhill from there!

I stayed at Mr. Burns house Saturday night since we were going to Mass at his church. When he heard me go into the bathroom and saw the light under the door, he greeted me through the door… “Good Morning!” I couldn’t muster much and only managed “Hi.” But if you’d heard it, you would have cracked up as Mr. Burns did. It was a short, whiney ‘hi’, like that from the mouth of a four year old who had been waken from deep slumber and had his favorite teddy bear taken away! As soon as it came out my mouth, we both cracked up. It was so pathetic!

Then we drove separate cars to church so I could go straight to work from Mass. I got there ahead of time so we could be assured seats. When I arrived there seemed to be plenty of room but appearances were deceiving as the one person in each pew was trying to save the entire row! ( don't get me started on how wrong this practice is!)

I went to the pew where we usually sit. There was a little old lady on the opposite end and a man with a baby in a car seat on the end where Mr. Burns and I normally sit. He looked at me and spread his jacket out further indicating that he needed the space. I looked in the rows ahead, seeing people I recognized, knowing how many people they were expecting. I turned back to the man with the baby and said, “My boyfriend is the lector. We need to be close.” He moved over, it seemed to me he rationalized that we were just two people.

A few minutes later, his sister found him. The two of them and the baby got up to leave, his sister excusing herself passed me saying, “Our family is too big.” Well then I felt bad, but they were already off. The pews around us had filled in further and I don’t know where they went to.

I felt really bad. But then I reasoned… a person can only be expected to save one, maybe two seats. If you need 15 seats, bring 5 people to save them!

Then Mr. Burns arrived, knelt next to me to pray then got back up to arrange the scripture book and consult with the priest and deacons. So there I was, trying to save a seat as the church got packed. People moved into my pew and filled it… and I still had my space and one for Mr. Burns. Then I had to start turning people away. I hate doing that. Suddenly I was really irritated with Mr. Burns for leaving me alone in our seats.

By the time he finally came and sat down I was super irritated. So Easter was off to a lousy start.
Throughout Mass my mind jumped from the strain in my relationship with Mr. Burns to the job interview I had the next day to all myriad of things. Ugh. I realized that I was unhappy.

Unhappy on Easter.

Mr. Burns walked me to my car after Mass and asked if I was okay. I burst into tears. I told him I just didn’t feel happy. On top of that my stomach was growling and I realized that since I was the only one scheduled to work that I wouldn’t be able to take a break and get food. Super ugh. So off to work I went, unhappy and hungry.

I got to work and opened the store. The server was down so immediately I was on the phone with Tech Support. What a great Easter.

Suddenly I looked up and there was Mr. Burns with a lunch cooler full of snacks for me. He brought me a sausage sandwich… his breakfast specialty… a sausage patty between an English muffin. ( It would be remiss not to mention that it's the special way that he butters the muffin that makes it so great.) He also made Shells and Cheese for lunch. And packed a bag of corn chips for a snack and some Dove chocolates for dessert. He prepared all this neglecting to make breakfast for himself!

And did I mention he had to drive 12 miles just to bring it me before turning around and driving another 12 back to make breakfast for himself? What a guy!

Suddenly the day was better and some of my joy had returned.

Horton Hears a Who

2008-03-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

I just read it for the first time. Seriously.
I keep seeing Jim Carey promoting the animated movie and it looks so terribly cute. Those interviewing him keep referencing the story and I just felt a little in the dark.

Then this morning I remembered that the last time I went home to visit family, Mom and I went through some old books and school papers from childhood. I remember grabbing an old Dr. Seuss book or two. Knowing that they were my older sisters’ and probably pretty close to first edition, I wanted to be the one to preserve them even if I wasn’t really a big fan of Dr. Seuss when I was a kid.

So this morning, I looked on the shelf where I stacked these old books. Any chance one of them was Horton?

Imagine my surprise to find only one Dr. Seuss edition. And in fact, Horton Hears a Who!

I read it. Aloud. I got totally worked up and excited. I was wholeheartedly behind Horton’s noble mission. I was a little bit terrified when the eagle dropped the Whoville clover in the giant field of clovers. I noticed the illustrated Horton watching from the cliff, his face full of shock and dismay. I felt as dejected as he. How would he ever find that speck in the field of fuzzy pink clovers?

My world was transformed as it should have been when I was seven. Somehow Seuss didn’t speak to me a kid. But I sure got the message this morning!!

Wow! What a book! The illustrations that I found lackluster in my childhood are so full of emotion and vivid expression. The language that as a child I found a bit annoying – is so rhythmic and fluid and fun to read aloud! Amazing!

Looking back, I don't remember anyone reading it to me. I was a good reader, and as the third and youngest child (who, as my mom would say, was really good at keeping herself entertained) I was often left to read and explore on my own. So without adult interpretation, Seuss was lost on me. I have just discovered Dr. Seuss. And it is good!

Now I really can’t wait for the movie!

Four Things

2008-03-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

My cuz tagged me on a Four Things questionaire.
Here goes:

Four jobs I have had in my life: Waitress, Wedding Videographer (ugh!), News Reporter/Anchor, DJ at Campus Radio Station in College.

Four movies I would watch over and over: A Little Princess, Bridget Jones Diary, Cindrella Man, Say Anything (heck anything with John Cusack).

Four places I have lived: Lincoln, NE; Rapid City South Dakota; Omaha, NE; Denver, CO

Four TV Shows that I watch: Medium (if you haven't watched it - start! It's awesome!), LOST, Grey's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives

Four places I have been: Jamaica; San Francisco, CA; Cape Cod, MA, Ozarks, Arkansas (yeah really!)

Four people who e-mail me (regularly):Christine, Kimberly, Mr. Burns Michelle

My favorite foods- Eggplant Parmesean Sandwich, Veal Saltimboca I know, I know but I'm allergic to chicken!! , any Dead Pig, anything with Aritchoke as a featured ingredient

Four places I would rather be right now: With Mr. Burns, Seattle, A beach - anywhere, visting my family.

Things I am looking forward to this year: Summer - all three very short months of it, My birthday (summer), Getting a job, three little words.

Oh My

2008-02-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

What's this?

I finally finished the baby gift for Kate and Momma Kelly. I think it's my favorite so far.

Finally - amounts to finally getting my house in order to the degree that I could pull out the sewing machine without creating an even bigger mess!!

Ugh!

2008-02-13T00:18:00.000-07:00

I saw stirrup pants on the racks in Target today.

God help us!!

Day Spa Retreat

2008-02-04T21:41:00.000-07:00

Ummm. Oh that was so good!

For Christmas, Mr. Burns gave me a gift card for a Warm Stone Massage at a brand new day spa just a block from his condo. On Wednesday, I cashed that puppy in!!

Now I admit I have not wandered into many spas. This would be the 3rd. But this had to the be the best Spa EVER!

When I arrived, I was escorted to a small but beautifully appointed locker room where I changed into a luxurious robe and (sanitized) spa flip flops. Then I was directed to a room with big comfy chairs where I could unwind, down some more water (very important pre-massage) and enjoy some fresh, hot Raspberry tea.

And this (besides the massage) was the best part. They gave me a clipboard with a short questionaire. Normally that's a bit annoying but this page was full of the most useful questions! Of course it asked about which muscle groups might be giving me trouble... but another question asked if there were any scents or aromas that I didn't care for.

Praise God!

That's something I tend to forget about so I thought it was brilliant that they asked!! I quickly jotted down; lavender and coconut. Nothing irritates me more than the scent of lavender. That scent goes right to the center of my forehead and produces an instant headache. Since many massage therapists rely on lavender for relaxation - I now knew I wouldn't be confronted with it. Crisis averted!

The next question; even more brilliant!! What level of conversation do I prefer?

That's another thing that is easy to overlook. I don't like constant chit chat during massage. I'm trying to relax after all. Problem is that I'm actually really chatty - so I was very pleased that this MT showed restraint.
It doesn't have to be totally silent, but please don't pepper me with questions - I can't resist - then in the end I'm a little disappointed.

So the massage. Amazing. She had a heated blanket on the massage table so I crawled in all toasty. Then she used stone after stone... each almost hot enough to be uncomfortable ... but not quite... applying pressure with a special zing only stones can provide. Because who would have thought that rocks could feel so good?
Oh Mercy!

Then, when she was done she told me to take my time and come out when I'm ready. ( they all do that) Well, usually I lay there for about a minute and then stretch and get up. This massage was so good... I lay there for quite a while... dozing off a few times... before finally getting up to leave.
Then I sat in the relaxation room for a while, downing some more water and snacking on almonds, dried cranberries and boscotti.

Once I was dressed, I strolled the single block back to Mr. Burn's condo.
Wonderful!

Name a food - any food!

2008-01-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

Last Friday Mr. Burn's church had a fundraising dinner. For some reason we hadn't decided yet if could make it and had not yet purchased tickets to the dinner before one of the organizers cornered us and asked if we could help out in the kitchen. Sure.
Great!
We need dishwashers.
Oh brother!
Anyone who knows me - knows that doing dishes is my least favorite activity EVER. There is not much I like less.

So that's how we found ourselves doing dishes for 200 people. That's 200 x salad plates. 200 x dinner plates. 200 x dessert plates. Water goblets, wine glasses, coffee mugs. Silverware!!! Ugh.

We took a break to make a plate for ourselves. The menu was spaghetti - so since I'm allergic to tomatoes, I scooped up some plain noodles and scoured the cupboards for something with which to dress it. I ended up with Malt Vinegar. Not bad.

The young volunteer bartenders saw what I was eating and lo and behold the topic of my allergies became conversation. Oh boy!

I had to laugh when Mr. Burns, in answer to their subsequent question said, "Name a food."

The first blurted out, "Eggs?" "Bingo!" I said, "I'm allergic!"
The second guy said, ""Chicken." Two for two! Nice work - but that game is like shooting fish in a barrel!

Speaking of fish. Lent will start soon and so begin the Lenten Fish Fries. I don't mind volunteering... but even for charity it's hard to pay admission to a meal you can't eat. Mass produced Mac 'n Cheese is not so yummy. And subjecting myself to seeing all that yummy looking fish and knowing I can't have any - Well - I'd rather stay home.

Huge Life Improvement Accomplishment!

2008-01-16T21:55:00.001-07:00

See that pile in my hallway?

It's all stuff I pulled out of the closets and decided to get rid of months ago! All this plus an antique rocking chair.

It's actually my sofa fund.

It's been sitting there a while waiting for me to post it on Craigs*list.

Well, I finally took dozens of pictures and got it all on Craigs*list today. If it all sells as planned, I should make $300.

Yeah. $300 worth of stuff that I bought and didn't use. (or was given to me and never opened) Sigh. If you see something that you gave me... Good heavens I'm sorry... but I live in 750 square feet. Every foot is precious and if I'm not using it... well, it has to go.

So far.. one lady wants my red loveseat sofa slip cover. She'll pay be $30!! Yeehaw! While on the phone with her I asked if she needed decorative shelves or iPod cases.... she might. Whoo hoo!

Can you imagine how happy I'll be if all this stuff sells?

Allergy Etiquette

2008-01-15T23:44:00.000-07:00

Recently, Mr. Burns and I have received a number of dinner invitations from friends. We are so blessed to have such wonderful and social people in our lives!

We gladly and I hope, graciously accept each invitation. But I wonder - what is the most gracious way to deal with my many and various food allergies? For me, the allergies aren't that hard to deal with - the worst part for me is putting my host or hostess in a position to have to accommodate me. I hate that.

Do I accept the invitation and then email a list of my allergies? That seems awful.
Do I offer to bring a dish, so that I have at least one thing that I know I can eat?

The best case scenario is a gracious hostess. I received this email from one of them tonight:

Are you allergic to chicken, cranberries, and/or goat cheese? I make a wonderful salad with hot chicken. Are you allergic to avocado?

Oh. How thoughtful! She remembers that I have some restrictions. But how to respond?
I composed the following response:

Oh... that salad sounds fabulous!! I am allergic to chicken - but if you add it last maybe you could just leave the chicken out of my salad... that would be easy, then everyone else can still enjoy it.

I really appreciate your concern for my allergies, though I hate to restrict my hostess! I'd be happy to contribute a dish that is TRS-safe so that your culinary skills can be free to shine for everyone else!

Below are my restrictions... but don't concern yourself too much with category two... I can generally eat around those and be fine.

Any thoughts? Is that proper? Is it in any way offensive?

Any ideas for how to approach a hostess who doesn't inquire about my food restrictions? If you were having me to dinner - how would you prefer it were handled?

While I'm at it... I just want to remind people to ask their guests about food restrictions. I know many people with Celiac Disease (gluten intolerance) or who are vegetarians who would appreciate the gesture.

My vegetarian friend recalls a dinner party when she was staying in a hotel in DC for a work trip. Her friend generously invited her to dinner knowing she was in town for a few nights. Then at dinner she served her a juicy steak. Predictably, my friend didn't touch it. (she's vegetarian mostly for dietary reasons, not ethical) Her hostess didn't even ask why the only thing she touched was her wine!!!

My friend went back to her hotel on the Metro - starving - a little drunk- and wondering where she was going to find something to eat at 10:00PM!!

Do remember that it is the mark of a good hostess to ask if her guests enjoyed the meal. If the plate is untouched, do ask if something is the matter. Don't be insulted, but give her a granola bar for the trip home!!!

Meanwhile, let me stress that my hostess is beyond gracious and accommodating! I quickly received this reply:

We’ll do something different- there’s a bunch of food you're NOT allergic too. Thanks for the info.

So kind, but I hate that I caused her to change the menu!! Argh!

2007 Retrospective

2008-01-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun way to evaluate the past year...

1. What did you do in 2007 that you’d never done before?
Fell in love.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I kept some. More like goals… or ‘do it already – what are you waiting for’ type things. I finally tackled one of the two spendy dental issues. And my main resolution – finding a boyfriend worked really well. I met him in February!!
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes. My friend Kelly had her second, a girl. And my friend Mo – the same. (they each had a boy already)
4. Did anyone close to you die?
No. But my boyfriend’s dad died, I had never met him. I wish I could have met him.
5. What countries did you visit?
I didn’t leave the country at all. In fact, I’ve only left the country once and that was for Jamaica!
6. What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
A fiancé.
7. What dates from 2007 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
February 17th. Our first date. And I don’t know the specific date… but the week before my birthday/Father’s day – that’s when Mr. Burns’ dad died. It really changed him. Also December 17th, my dear friend’s wedding day!
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Wow. I don’t feel like I accomplished any one significant thing. Does discovering that I can curl my own hair and make it look cute with relative ease count?
9. What was your biggest failure?
Work. My contract ended, and they’re not offering any more contracts. Now I’m trying to figure out what do with my life.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Well, I had one nasty sinus infection for Easter. Man, that feels like death! And I had a significant problem with my hip. It has really limited my mobility. But the more exercise I get, the better it is.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
My new living room rug. I found the perfect cream colored, 8x10 shag carpet for just $200. I rock! The other great purchase was a darling jersey knit cocktail dress for $40! I bought it the weekend after my contract ended so it felt a little splurgy. It looks fabulous. I wore it New Years Eve.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Mine and Mr. Burns’ for maintaining our celibacy/ abstinence while being so crazy about each other!
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Yeah, I have to agree with Glossy Veneer – celebrities who don’t know how to behave, and the media for paying too much attention to them.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Safeway – grocery store. To my dentist, my chiropractor, and my mechanic. And to Safelite Auto Glass. When I finally replaced the cracked windshield that I had put off for more than a year – I got nailed with rocks a few weeks later and paid them more money to fill the chips.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
The engagements and ensuing weddings of two very dear friends. I spent more time on wedding sites and blog than the two of them combined!!
16. What song will always remind you of 2007?
"Suddenly I See” by KT Tunstall
“This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race” by Fall Out Boy
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:? a) happier or sadder? b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer?
Happier, thinner, poorer
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Exercise. And I haven't skied in two years now... gotta get up the hill.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Not working.
20. How did you spend Christmas?
Alone with Mr. Burns. We went to Midnight Mass – after listening to my parents and my brother’s family (including my fabulous nieces and adorable nephew) singing Silent Night over the phone! Then Christmas morning, he gave me a gift and we spent the day eating honey baked ham and garlic mashed potatoes, watching movies and watching the snow fall.
21. Did you fall in love in 2007?
You bet I did!! See #1
22. What was your favorite TV program?
Hmm. I was big on LOST, I really like Medium even if I miss it more often than I see it. Grey’s Anatomy and Biggest Loser!
23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
No.
24. What was the best book you read?
I didn’t do a lot of reading. But Mr. Burns gave me Captivating to read and I like it.
25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Sara Bareilles – she has a great sound, similar to Aslyn, my musical discovery of 2006!!
And also, that I don’t listen to enough classic rock. Everything Mr. Burns plays, I remember and love, but I haven’t heard in years!!
26. What did you want and get?
A boyfriend.
27. What did you want and not get?
A fiancé.
28. What was your favorite film of this year?
The only thing I saw in the theatre this year was “The Simpson’s Movie”. But we rented “Amistad” and I absolutely LOVE it! Great movie. Must see.
29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 37 on Father’s day. I had planned to have a simple day with Mr. Burns. But his dad died a few days earlier and he was away. I ended up having my birthday alone – which was good. One friend was going to come over and celebrate with me… but the prospect sounded less and less relaxing (she suggested that I make a meal and she’d bring the cake and the wine. But if you know me at all… you’d know that cooking is the VERY LAST thing I would do on my birthday!!!) I ended up telling her that I’d rather spend the day alone. And I did.
30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Finding a job that I love and loves me back!!!
31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
I decided to buy fewer clothes… but to spend more on the things that I do buy – in terms of quality and little bit of couture.
32. What kept you sane?
My faith in God.
33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Still John Cusack.
34. What political issue stirred you the most?
Illegal immigration. It’s so hard to know the right answers. I’m reminded of my immigrant Grandmother and her family who came here in early 1900s. They spoke German at home and sometimes at school she would slip into German and would be teased mercilessly by the other children, and chastised heartily by her teacher. But now everyone expects America to learn Spanish so that the immigrants don’t have to adapt! That really bothers me. Not to mention the idea that illegal immigrants could end up with more dollars toward college than my nieces and nephew would have.
I also know that trying to immigrate LEGALLY is dang near impossible to accomplish, even with the best of intentions.
35. Who did you miss?
My family. I went home for a week in September so that was good. But I had Christmas without them. I wish they were closer.
36. Who was the best new person you met?
Besides Mr. Burns – Sophia at my part-time job. She’s one of those people that you just know God placed in your life for a reason! That an Iranian woman and girl from Nebraska could meet in Denver and have so much in common is remarkable – a miracle!
37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007.
My part-time job at the photography studio taught me that my real passion and talent is photography. Apparently, I should have listened to my 13 year old self who wanted to be a photographer. I could have avoided my television career all together!
The same job also taught me that I AM good with kids!
38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
From Suddenly I See – KT Tunstall”Everything around her is a silver pool of light. The people who surround her feel the benefit of it, it makes you calm. She holds you captivated in her palm.”
This line always reminds me of my friend Kimberly. She is grace, and elegance and love in one fabulous red-headed package. On her wedding day, after her hair and makeup were done, we were walking to the car so she could get to the church. I looked at beautiful her and started singing that lyric. She turned to me and sternly said, “Don’t make us cry! There will be no crying.”

Wild dog or Taming of the Shrew?

2008-01-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

Oh, this is too funny.
http://www.animalinyou.com/survey.asp

I took the test. I am either a Wild Dog or a Otter personality.
Says the site, "But you may also be a Shrew personality. "

The website says that you can only be one, not a combination of animals.
Any ideas of which one suits me?

Go ahead and comment, I'll tell you what I think later.
And share yours!

A New Year's Resolution EVERYONE Should Commit To:

2008-01-02T21:26:00.001-07:00

At the grocery store today, I ended up chatting with the delightful woman at checkout and she shared her New Years Resolution with me.

See, I brought in one of my cloth grocery bags. Check that. I was about to go through checkout - and had to stop and park my cart over in produce while I ran out to my car to RETRIEVE my cloth grocery bag!! Luckily, I actually had one in my car!

Despite my best intentions, half the time I forget to take the bags to my car. Then, half of the times that I do... I forget to take them into the store!! One time, a cashier actually held up the line for me to run out and get my bags!!
I thought that was incredible... but a great example to anyone waiting in line behind me.... 'tis far better to wait three minutes for me to retrieve a reusable bag ... than to wait 300 years for that bag to decompose in a landfill!

Anyway. That's when this cashier told me that her New Years Resolution is to remember to bring her reusable cloth bags to the store with her.

What a great resolve!!
Won't you all do the same?

Take them not only to the grocery store, but to the mall, to Target... and everywhere you shop!
If you are making a small purchase... a book or two... REFUSE a bag! Just carry them with you. It's not that much of a bother.

Next year, everyone on my list is getting cloth shopping bags. I was going to do it this year, but I resolve to do it next Christmas. Maybe I'll even make some to make it special.

Shaving Goosebumps

2007-12-28T15:44:00.001-07:00

Tell me. Who is the big fat hairy genius that came up with the new Bow- armed shower curtain rods that are plaguing hotels??!?!?!?

Yeah, I understand that they provide more elbow room in the shower - but was elbow room really that much of a problem? So your elbow bumps a fabric or plastic shower curtain - is that painful or something?

I'll tell you what's painful. Shaving goosebumps.

You see... making more room in the shower DESTROYS the nice small pocket of warmth and steam that is critically important to the comfortable showering process!!
When you are... as I am... a very small animal (to quote Piglet from Winnie the Pooh) it's bad enough that all the water pressure has turned to tiny droplets by the time it reaches your head - but when you have goosebumps while bathing... something is seriously wrong!

The first morning that Mr. Burns and I were in San Francisco last week, I tried to shave my legs but instead of removing hair, I mostly removed the tips of my goosebumps! That's not attractive.

Well okay. I could wear pants that day... but in preparation for my friend's wedding day, when I would be wearing a lovely dress sans hose and with strappy heels... I wanted to have smooth, flawless looking legs.

For the rest of our stay in the hotel room, we propped the (heavy, metal) bathroom door (with no ability to stay open on it's own) open with one of Mr. Burns shoes. The idea was to get the entire bathroom, including the ceramic tub heated to a reasonable room temperature so that I could bath and shave my legs without goosebumps.

Mr. Burns tells me that the wide shower curtain rod is intended to eliminate the problem of the shower curtain billowing in (hot air/ cold air thing) Again. This is a serious problem? One that required a remedy? Because I think in all of my 37 years on this planet, the shower curtain has made a nuisance of itself maybe.... 5 times. IN 37 YEARS!!!!!
But shaving my own goosebumps is a much bigger problem. Am I the only one?

Check out the pretty!

2007-12-13T01:26:00.000-07:00

My neighbor (a florist) treated me to a bag of fresh holly last week.
I love the dark green leaves and bright red berries – but the beautiful stuff doesn’t last long cut.

After a short stint in vases on my credenza, I hated the thought of tossing it out in anticipation of my trip to San Francisco this weekend.

How to make it last? Frozen Luminaries!

I gathered up some empty yogurt tubs and plastic cups, some twine, a cutter and bottle of olive oil.
You could make larger luminaries using a gallon ice cream bucket and yogurt or margarine tubs.

Here’s what I did.
1)
Lightly oil the inside of the tubs and the outside of the cups. (so the ice can slide out easily once it’s frozen)

2) Arrange some holly inside the tub, squeeze the cup in – securing it with twine so the cup doesn't float out as the ice expands. (if you don’t have twine or string… the tub lids might work) Then arrange some more leaves around the edges. (careful, it’s prickly)
3) Fill the tubs about 2/3 full of water and set them in the freezer or outside.

4)Once partially frozen, Toss in some extra berries to make the most of the bright red pop of color. Then add water up to the brim (allowing for expansion) Poke the berries into the slushy part so they don’t float up to the top)

5) Once they’re completely frozen, untie the twine, hold under hot water to loosen then pull out the cup and squeeze the block of ice out of the tub.
Three out of the four I made popped out easily. I can only assume the stickler was due to insufficient oiling.

Insert a tea light and viola! A lovely holiday luminary for your front steps or porch… possibly to last through the winter months!

Pretty Ribbons

2007-12-10T23:28:00.001-07:00

Retro Ribbon I found these Christmas ribbons at a Church rummage sale last year. Aren't they pretty?
They are clearly remnants from some little old lady who never used them all up.

They are at least 25 years old! I remember this type of ribbon from when I was a kid.

Any ideas for how to use them? I love to wrap gifts with the quintessential crisscross. You know, the sort that makes four quadrants on top of the gift -- but the problem with this type of ribbon is that it doesn't tie into a nice bow. :-(
And it's one sided. And it doesn't curl all that well. But it's SO cute.

I finished wrapping my gifts today.
Sorry, I packed them all up for shipping before I thought to take a picture. I didn't use this ribbon this time. (Since I won't be there to watch them open... and the fact is... the ribbons on the presents freshly wrapped this afternoon are already smooshed - packed in a box - ready to send to Nebraska!)
But I'll take any ribbon tying suggestions to make the most of these retro ribbons next year!

What's Normal?

2007-12-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

Mr. Burns and I are so looking forward to Christmas. Neither of us are going home to our families… we’re just going to stay here together. Yay.

Yesterday Mr. Burns suggested that it might be a better use of our time to do something for others on Christmas. Maybe serve food at the Mission, something like that.
That led us into a conversation about generosity, and the question of whether we are matched in that area. I think we are.

We both agree that it doesn’t take much to do something great for others. Whether it’s inviting someone in need of companionship to your house for dinner or giving money to charity, or to someone who needs it. To me… it’s simple kindness. And that goes back to how we were raised.

My parents were never the type to invite a stranger for dinner, but they are still outstanding examples of generosity.

They were such a good influence that growing up… I simply thought this is what people do. You tell me. Is this normal?

See, my parents are farmers. During the 1980s my dad was smart and savvy enough to snap up the land of an adjoining farm when the estate went up for sale. My mom spent her days fixing up the old farm house, painting and cleaning to get it ready for renters.

One day on the school bus ride home, we drove past one my neighbor’s homes. It had been standing when we went to school that morning. On the ride home, we were stunned when we passed the burned down rubble. The home of a family of seven was gone.

A mile later, I was home and heard all about the fire. Along with that story, I was informed that the ladies of our church joined my mom to finish painting the house so our suddenly homeless neighbors would have shelter for their large family.
Furniture, linens and extra clothes were all provided by dinner time that evening.

They lived in that three bedroom house while their home was rebuilt. I don’t know the details, but I’m sure it was rent free.

Because of so many similar examples, I feel that is just what people do. If you want and I have… here… have.

Mr. Burns reminded me that that’s not typical. And in today’s world I think it’s not. But he points out that it wasn’t typical 30 years ago either.

Is he right? Is this exceptional? Is it about the big hearts in our small farming community or is truly odd behavior?

I’m so thankful that I was raised with that example of kindness. I hope if I have children one day, I can provide a similar example to them.

Honor

2007-11-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

It's strange how the lives of others touch our own. If even for a brief, fleeting moment.

The other day a group of 12 people plus an infant came into the portrait studio for a family picture. I tend to stress out a little with a group this big, because it's hard to fit them all on the backdrop!
Not to mention the coordination of all eyes open, and mouths smiling all at once with that many faces!

The group was made up of Mom & Dad, their three grown children, their spouses and children. One couple has four kids, another has a 6 month old baby boy and the third couple doesn't have kids yet. So I took a picture of the whole group... miraculously fitting them onto the backdrop!

Then the grandparents with the grandkids, the grandkids alone... and then smaller family portraits. The couple with the baby wanted a couple pictures with just the two of them, along with a family photo with the baby. They were thrilled when I got the baby to smile for the photo.

Then I sat down at the computer monitor with the huge group to show them the pictures. You would have thought it was the Fourth of July, the way they were oohing and aahhing.
Nothing makes me happier than people who love their photos!

It was at about this time that I learned... the reason they got the whole family together for portraits is that the oldest son, father of the 6 month old baby, is leaving on December 3rd for Iraq.

These are the pictures he will take with him to the war zone.
These are the pictures that will be tucked in his breast pocket, next to his heart.
These are the pictures his family will stare at while they miss him so deeply on Christmas eve and Christmas day and every day until he comes home.

In the absolute worse case scenario... these may be the last pictures taken of him.

Suddenly the responsibility of this job hits me. What an honor.
I'm the person entrusted with the task of capturing their family memories. I'm so pleased that the entire group seemed to enjoy the photo session.

They bought a package of portraits to come from the lab, and as I rung up their order most of the large family dispersed to go find a restaurant nearby to eat. About four people remained to pay for the order, the soldier's brother and sister and their spouses.

When I told them the pictures are guaranteed back in the store by December 4th, probably earlier... they panicked. He's leaving on the 3rd.

Quick, can we print a couple photos here in the store so he can take them along?
I already rang the order... so I called my manager to figure out how to ring the studio prints.
He gave me instructions... don't ring them up.

I was so touched, and so pleased to print those pictures... put them in a frame and hand them to this soldier's family saying, "These are on us. Please tell him Thank You for serving."

Predictably, I couldn't say it without my voice cracking and my eyes welling up. His sister's lip started to quiver too.

These people are still strangers to me, but I'll be thinking about this family for a long time.

It's easy for so many of us to ignore this war and the impact it has on everyone around us.

I have friends in the Military. Each of them have been sent to Iraq or Saudi Arabia or some support island near the war zone.
They have all come back.
But I know many soldiers die over there every day. Part of me feels it must be those who touch my life briefly, that sacrifice the most.

Kids say....

2007-11-13T23:48:00.001-07:00

I was shooting a family portrait yesterday... mom, dad and three boys. The two older boys were old enough to hold a pose and smile at the camera, but I had to coax a smile and proper eye direction out of the 1-year old seated on dad's lap.

Like any photographer, I resorted to waving a stuffed animal, making clucking noises and finally a raspberry. You know: lips puckered, tongue goes "ppppbbbllllttttt!".

It got the baby's attention but the 4-year old was dismayed.
I swore I heard him say, "I'm opposed to spit."

I almost hit the floor until Dad translated, "You're not supposed to spit."

Oh No! What now?!

2007-11-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

After much searching... I found this dress to wear to K's wedding this December.

It's quite lovely on... believe me, I'm surprised that I like it better on me than I do on the model!

It has a much more 1940s feel than it appears in this picture. And the hemline doesn't even look like that... whatever.

So.

My new problem is... I'm looking for a necklace to wear with it and while searching for a photo to send a friend for jewlery consultation... I found THIS:

In the exact same price range! I could just exchange it - even steven.

Ack! Now what do I do? I guess I'll have to run to Nordstrom and go try this one on... maybe return the other one!

Ack! Why can't I just be done after I buy something?!?

With any luck, I'll try it on and the answer will be obvious. I wasn't thrilled with the blue one on the hanger... but once on - that overwhelming, "I feel pretty" cloud took over. It floats and swirls when you spin... great for dancing... as if.

If I feel as lovely or more lovely in this other dress, I'll know it's a real contender!

What would YOU do?

Never mind that I truely covet this dress: http://developmentclothing.com/fa07ss/fa07/ the fourth one on the page... it won't let me load the pic.

I tried it on. It's freaking FABULOUS!!

Oh... I'd kill to wear that dress... but funds don't allow!! Wah! Boo hoo. (and it's not really appropriate for a wedding I think)

Gifts for the best Mommies

2007-11-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone is having babies these days!!

Here is the latest baby gift... for Mo's baby girl... ready for wrapping. (actually, I still have to stitch on the velcro tabs on the diaper pouch. Haven't figured out how to template that prior to assembly.)

I blogged about it's protype a few days ago, after duplicating the design from: http://www.disdressed.blogspot.com/ .

I like this fabric much better than my first one.

I'm a little disappointed in my embroidery skills. Fortunately, it seems to improve each time.

Here's a sneak peek at the next one ... in progress: (suprises are wasted on some people, you know!!)

Kate was much easier to manage than Abigale. I told KH that by the time she names her baby - I'll have the embroidery down... just don't name it Anastasia!

KH says it's a toss-up between the fabric used for Kate's pouches... and the red, blue, green dots on the left side of this pic. I'm not sure either. I think the dots will be really cute (and gender neutral).

Body Image

2007-10-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Normally, I don’t concern myself with drama surrounding the beauty pageant world, but this story intrigues me.

Apparently, Miss England, Georgia Horsley is being advised to put on weight for the upcoming Miss World Competition.

It seems the Miss World judges favor curvier women.

I believe they favor curvier women now, due to the outcry in the past year or two that stick thin, heroin-addict-looking models should not be a beauty ideal… and I agree with that.

Clearly, Horsley's advisors are concerned with winning, and their suggestion is just that… a suggestion, in the direction of having their girl win the crown.

This woman is no stick figure. She says she has an athletic, almost boyish figure that she doesn't feel looks unhealthy at all. I have to agree.
What I admire most is Horsley's attitude in the interview with Meredith Vieria. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21486415/?GT1=10450

She’s a good sport. Okay, I’ll try eating more, but if it changes my figure in a way I’m not proud of, I’m scrapping the whole plan.

Good girl!

But here’s the thing. I am very supportive of the effort to promote healthy body images. I think Dove’s campaign for real beauty is REMARKABLE!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaH4y6ZjSfE (watch: Dove Onslaught. part of it is hard to watch but stick it out, the end is key.)
(this one is awesome too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYhCn0jf46U )

Yes! Women with curves are beautiful. But guess what! So is a healthy, lean, athletic body.

I, like Miss Georgia Horsley, will never be a curvy woman. If I put on weight, I’d just be a thicker stick! Just because I’m naturally thin doesn't mean I’m anorexic or unhealthy.

It always bothers me when, voices in support of realistic body images use the phrase ‘Real Women’. Does that mean that if I'm thin I’m somehow not real? Am I not a complete woman because I don’t have curves?

When we support a healthy body image… shouldn't that be all inclusive? Do we really want thin, athletic girls to feel less than? Why can’t we just accept people as they are? As long as you are healthy, strong and mobile – why point fingers?

What really bothers me are the stargazers who feel obliged to 'diagnose' certain celebrities with anorexia. Ellen Pompeo & Sandra Oh (Grey’s Anatomy), Calista Flockhart (Ally McBeal, Brothers and Sisters) for example.

I championed Ellen Pompeo when she spoke up to Entertainment Tonight reporters this summer, saying it’s very dangerous to assign eating disorders to people just based on their appearance. (of course very little was made of that – which was disappointing) Clearly, the entertainment media wants to hold on to thin women as their scapegoats.

Allow me to explain why I feel so strongly about this.

I recall Health class in junior high. Part of the curriculum surrounding healthy eating, included a discussion of the eating disorders Anorexia and Bulimia. I remember the whole class turning around to stare at me.

Yes, I was a walking twig with knobby knees as large as my head.
I wanted to scream, “Didn't you just hear the definition? Those disorders involve a distorted body image and an obsession with food! I know I’m thin. And I probably eat more than any of the rest of you. (and I don’t barf either!)”

It wasn't until college that I found the words that worked.

Girls in the dorm and in my classes would tell me how jealous they were of my size, saying, “You’re so lucky. You’re anorexic."

My blood boiled. They claimed it was a compliment.

Finally I told them, "So if I said that you look like an alcoholic... would you take it as a compliment?"

Bottom line. To promote a healthy body image for all women, let’s just accept one another as we are. I won’t criticize women with sexy curves. And they won’t criticize the women who don’t have to struggle to be thin.

Having a thin, athletic body is no more a sign of disease than being blessed with ample breast tissue without surgery. Or having bigger hips after a few pregnancies.

As long as we’re strong and healthy and eat well – let’s celebrate one another!

Love your body for what it is capable of! What it looks like is inconsequential.

Serendipity

2007-10-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

My dear, dear friend KH, the very cool chick pilot - called me yesterday to tell me.... she's pregnant! Yay! It's still early, but promising. I'm so happy for her.

It was just last month that I shared with her the rip off I did of a cool baby gift designed by the fabulous lady behind http://disdressed.blogspot.com/2006_03_01_archive.html .

This is my version. I had to recreate the pattern myself. They are pouches to add to your diaper bag... the big one is for baby's food, bowls and spoon... the smaller one for baby wipes and a handful of diapers.

I made it for a friend who is due right about now! KH said, "How cute. I hope I get pregnant soon so I get adorable gifts from you!"

So today I poked into the fabric store to look at some more fabrics and nursery patterns.

Well, guess what happened there.

The very fact that KH is pregnant is what pulled me into the fabric store. While in line at the checkout I overheard the conversation between two women behind me... describing the younger woman's job. It sounded like she worked at a production company... so once we were both out of the store I stopped her, apologized for overhearing their conversation, and asked where she works. She was lovely, charming and kind and told me to look up the company and call her at work.

Amazing... I picked up a job lead at the fabric store!!

I love this kid already! (the one in utero)

Oh, about the patterns. Who knows if I'll get around to them... but on sale for 99 cents each I figure I'll have a good source for baby gifts and hopefully I'll get to reproduce myself one day and have a cute room to decorate.

Here's what I got: I would use much much cooler fabrics but you get the idea!

The one on the left includes the Fitted Sheet, Dust Ruffle, Bumpers, Quilt, Pillow, Diaper Stacker and Organizer.

I also picked up this one I've been eyeing... for myself.

I'll make the short red cape coat on the bottom... if I ever get around to it. Probably in green or blue.

Wheeling and Dealing with God

2007-10-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

I want to share an article I read today. It's the most beautiful thing written about prayer that I've read in a long long time.

At first I thought the author was describing the church my mom and I went to while we were visiting D.C. - but I was wrong.

Still - this church is gorgeous. A great place to get in touch with the Almighty Father.

Enjoy.

Cutting, and keeping, a deal with God
BY TRACY GRANT - THE WASHINGTON POST

WASHINGTON — I've started hanging out at the Cathedral of St. Matthew downtown here. It's a great old church, with gilt statues, deeply hued mosaics and marble — oh, the marble. It's all green and gold and black and white, and it all has the look of having been polished by the hand of God.

St. Matthew also has these private alcoves — prayer nooks and crannies that modern churches lack. You can duck into the Chapel of St. Anthony of Padua or one devoted to Mary. And of course, there are those little stations (10 to be exact) where you can light a candle instead of cursing the darkness.

There's also great people-watching. Sometimes, like for the 12:10 daily Mass, there's a crowd of a hundred or more people. Sometimes, when I just poke my head in to kneel and say a few decades of the rosary, there might just be a handful of us. Very rarely am I the only one there.

I'm not sure who I expected to show up at St. Matthew during the business day. But there's no one type. There are homeless people, perhaps just getting out of the heat or cold. There are Catholic tourists, perhaps wanting to see where the Kennedy funeral was. There are old men and pregnant women. There are immigrants in blue collars and professionals in white ones. Some, no doubt, are regulars. Others are there for reasons they can't quite fathom. They are there because of a pull that is as primal as anything they can imagine.

Put me in that category.

I found myself making the four-block pilgrimage from my office to the cathedral without really knowing where my feet were taking me. When I got there, I almost blindly climbed the 15 steps, pulled open the heavy brass door, dipped a finger in the holy-water font, slipped a dollar into the donation box and lit one of the candles that shimmer in the glazed, garnet holders.

I was there to cut a deal. By the time I found myself in that cathedral on a sweltering summer day, I knew what I wanted. I also knew that I would trade away just about anything to get it. What promise would you make to save the most precious person in your life?

I found myself pondering all sorts of ephemeral promises I could make to God: I would be a better person. I'd be less judgmental. I'd be more patient. But how do you gauge if you're really keeping that kind of promise? And when you're cutting this kind of deal with God, you don't want there to be ambiguity in the contract. Then amid tears and rosary beads, it came to me. I could come here, every day, if even for a few minutes. I could light a candle. I could say thank you or help me or curse you. Or I could just people-watch. God would know I was keeping the deal. I would know I was keeping the deal.

Thy will be done.

How many thousands of times had I uttered those words in my lifetime before I really understood them? If you say them and mean them, then you keep the deal even when His will and yours have nothing in common.And so more than a year after I started, I still come, not every day but often. I come even though the prayers that originally drew me here have been answered in a way that shattered my life. I come because keeping the deal isn't just about saving the life of the person most precious to you.

It's also about finding a path that helps you go on without him. It's about knowing that God always hears our prayers and always answers them and that the real life journey of faith is discovering the meaning in His answers.

These days, as I make the 10-minute walk, the questions of faith, mercy and grace sear my soul. I pray the rosary, not always concentrating on the prayers that come from somewhere deep in a Catholic schoolgirl's past. I sometimes find myself looking at the other people scattered among the pews, wondering what deals they are cutting.

But I come and I light a candle. I'm keeping the deal. Because at St. Matthew even when the pews are empty, I know I'm not alone. And that's how I know that He's keeping the deal too.

She Has So MANY Secrets!!!

2007-10-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

Ugh. The worst thing about this stupid Vicky's Secret job -- besides the incredibly self-important managers who seem to think selling undies is very important work -- is the terrific lack of training!

Yeah, I know what you're thinking... how hard can it be to sell underwear? Well, it's not but Vicky is one self-important broad. There are all sorts of goals and rules and restrictions and incredible BS. All of this stuff they never bothered to tell me - but then look at me like I'm a moron because I don't know.

Today, I was working the fitting room and wardrobe center. I've been assigned to the fitting room for some portion of all my 5 shifts so far, so I didn't expect any surprises.

While collecting and rehanging all the lingerie, I heard a strange sound. Finally, I realized there was a pager on the tiny countertop, vibrating it's little heart out.
Hmm. Did a customer lose that in a dressing room? Is it something very important for the managers?

So I crackle onto the headset (epitome of self importance) and say, "There's a pager going off in the fitting room. Does anyone know what that is about?"
A crackle back, "Yes TRS, that's for you - it's for customers in the fitting to let you know they need assistance."

Really?! I've been running the stupid fitting room every day that I've been there and this is the first I heard about it! (there are little buttons inside the fitting room that light up a button on the outside... so a customer can ask for another size. I always wondered how I was supposed to see them when I was out on the floor.)

Without so much as a pause I replied, "Hmm. What an interesting way to learn about that."

Of course there was no reply.

Ahh. But the tide may be turning. Prayers, if you will, about an important job opportunity that will put me back in my career field. God has been trying to teach me about patience ... and I think He has a reward in mind.
I'll gladly surrender my 30% VS discount for the answer to this lesson!

Get a girl drunk and you can do anything to her hair!

2007-10-13T20:32:00.001-07:00

Long overdue for a haircut, I made an appointment with a new stylist.

I got his name from a woman I accosted in an antiques store who had a great cut. I held onto his name for a while, since I've been trying to get some length.

So I walk into the salon and the receptionist/hostess tells me the stylist will be right with me and offered me a drink. The options being water, tea and wine... I decided that I was indeed in the mood for a glass of white wine.

Half way through the haircut, I realized that I hadn't eaten all day and the glass of wine managed to get me a little drunk! Hooo! Imagine that!

Of course I loved the cut. Why wouldn't I? I'd have loved the broom at that point.

The really strange part was leaving the salon realizing that I couldn't drive! So I walked over to a pub and got something to eat. (the best Eggplant Parmesan sandwich ever!)

Later, I told Kim about the tipsy haircut and she was a bit bewildered as to how the salon could afford to serve wine - then corrected her thinking by saying, "Well, I'm sure they make up for it in tips."
"No... " I insisted, "I just gave him 20 percent." Then it hit me. "Which I calculated on the price plus product!"

Ugh. That wine wasn't so free was it!

(my apologies, this story is much funnier over the phone!)

Why are menial jobs so much work?

2007-10-09T21:46:00.000-07:00

For the past few years I've been doing contract and freelance work. It's been great. Good pay, fun work and fairly exciting. But for now that well has run dry. It typically slows down a bit as the holidays approach, but this year it's actually a problem. It could pick up in 6-12 months, but I need to find something else to do in the meantime.

Right now I appreciate the opportunity to try on some new hats (so to speak) and to take a few months to really discover what I want to do next.

So far, I took two months off - doing nothing. I've looked around the market here and I've had some nibbles - but nothing that will pan out until after the beginning of 2008.

Anyway, I looked into work doing something I've always wanted to do... work at a portrait studio during the busy holiday season!!!!
I got the job... it's just above minium wage and it's only part-time until I complete training... so I got another job at Vic-toria's Secret to tide me over.

I think the secret is that she's a pain in the @ss!!!

I've never done so much BS work just to do a sh!tty, minimum wage, retail job!!
They only have a million different kinds of bras. I'm supposed to learn the names and categories of each one and how they're different. Not to mention the other bazillion types of panties, their names and where in the store to find them!

On my first day I spent four hours straight on my feet, not allowed to have water on hand.... and having to ask permission to get a drink of water or go to the bathroom!!! Arrgh! I'm too old ( and too experienced) to be treated like a child! Four hours without a sip of water! I'm going to corporate with that! On top of that, new employees have to go online to submit availablity for hours... and the website was dang near impossible to register and log into - and believe me I'm not an idiot when it comes to accomplishing such tasks! I spent two hours on computer last night, doing it wrong but getting no help from the site to correct or navigate the process!

The portrait studio is great so far though. They also have some BS training modules but at least the manager knows they're bullsh!t and doesn't assign any further importance to it.
I got to take pictures of kids today... and that was really fun. It's really satisfying to hear the parents ooh and ahh over the pictures so much that they can't decide what they like the best.

The worst part is... I had to buy a new outfit to wear at the Vicky's Secret job.
No biggie, it's nothing that I wouldn't wear anyway - black pants and a black jacket... the depressing moment happened in a certain discount department store where I found some pants on sale. That's where I realized that two months ago, I could earn those pants in one hour. Now it will take four hours to earn the money to cover that expense!!!
Argh!

I shared that thought with Mr. Burns (formerly referred to as Mr. B) who was sympathetic. While shopping though... he picked out a few shirts for himself, a golf sweater and a pair of jeans, so when we reached checkout he wanted to save time at the register by combining our purchases. (so he paid for my pants and I bought lunch) But the cashier ringing it up said, "She gets one thing? That's unusual. It's normally the other way around!"

The whole thing was really strange to me.... I've never had anyone but my mom buy me clothes before!

Pretty Things

2007-10-09T20:38:00.000-07:00

Some lovely things are finding their way to my home.

The day I found the flower painting (below) at an antique store... I also found this way cool vase.

It just screamed "special" to me. See, the base is square but the mouth of the vase is a triangle. Pretty tricky eh?

I love the color and the great texture on the base. It's not much for putting flowers in, but that fault is made up for by it's great design!

So, considering it's design I wonder if it is significant at all. There are NO markings at all so it's tough to determine when it was made. And to me the bottom seems smooth enough to suggest that it's not handmade. Any thoughts?

Remembering

2007-10-05T17:03:00.001-07:00

Today is the 22nd anniversary of my sister's death.
In one more year, she will be dead for as long as she was alive.

She was eight years older than I... so already I've lived without her longer than I lived with her.

It is so strange to arrive at the point where you don't miss someone anymore.
I used to wonder what it would be like if she were still alive. Would she have moved with me when I went to college, where we would have shared an apartment? Maybe she would have finished college too.

I don't wonder any of that any more.

Even now that I'm dating Mr. B -- I don't even wonder what she would think of him. If she would like him. While I'm anxious for my parents, my nieces and nephews and other relatives to meet him... I don't even pretend to want my sister's approval. But I know she'd like him. Are ya kidding?!

It really stinks that she's not a part of my life in any way.

My Renewed Passion for Soup

2007-10-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

I love soup. It makes me happy. It makes me warm and cozy. It always tastes so good. I mean really, have you ever had soup that wasn't delicious?

What is funny is that I didn't realize until I reached my 30s just how much I love soup. I think I was having Minestrone one day after having another delicious soup a few days before and it hit me. I really enjoy soup.

Shortly after that profound realization, my soup days were over. You see, my doctor explained that I'm allergic to many simple foods: carrots, celery tomatoes, chicken.

If you know anything about soup - those are the very things that make up any basic soup stock. Woe is me. No soup. I've been pretty much soup free since late 2003!

So imagine the sheer joy I felt upon discovering a line of soups just for me!!!!
Okay. Pacific Natural Foods is not making them just for me, considering they are mass produced. But the ingredient list is completely TRS safe.

They are also organic, all natural and gluten free - none of which matters to me but I know plenty of people who will be thrilled to know it's available. (actually, some of you might find it helpful to have something like this on hand if you have friends or relatives who suffer from celiac disease -gluten intolerance. It's always nice to know you can avoid giving your guests an allergic reaction with minimal effort!)

I found these at Super Target, which is terribly handy.
Yesterday I tried the Butternut Squash and it was just SOOOOOOO tasty. I'm thinking the Buttery Sweet Corn will be tasty with some potatoes and fresh corn mixed in.

Oh sweet happiness! SOUP IS BACK!

Back when I had to give up soup, my mom and I spent some time trying to figure out what to substitute for the basics in soup stock. Now that's a hoot. The girl who doesn't cook* is going to make her own soup stock! Absurd.

I did find an organic soup broth from Swanson that is also TRS safe (also at Super Target). I use that to make my fabulous Squash Bisque... but I just don't have that many soup recipies... nor the patience to tinker with it.
So finding these ready made soups is a real coup!!

* FYI - I can cook. I actually cook quite well. In fact, I guess my friends hear me say so often that I don't cook that they think I can't cook! Please, who can't follow directions? When I do make a dish... everyone is shocked that it's so good!
More often than not I simply choose not to cook. It's too much work, too much mess and I've never figured out how to keep produce around long enough to eat it!

Giving

2007-10-05T00:14:00.001-07:00

Last weekend my friend Ben left me a message asking if I could help him fulfill an obligation.
He occasionally commits to organizing a group to serve food and clean up at the Denver Mission. Somehow - the people he was counting on couldn't make it and he was frantically trying to round out his staff of volunteers.

Considering he only had 24 hours notice he wasn't holding out hope. But Mr. B and I went to Mass Saturday evening and he had plans to golf Sunday morning so as it happened I was free. I didn't really want an obligation Sunday morning and I almost said no - that I wouldn't make it.

At 10:30 I met Ben and some of his friends at the mission in the gritty part of downtown Denver. We set up the tables with water and bread and prepared to serve the homeless as they came in for lunch. I got to work the dessert table, with a variety of donated cakes, pies, cookies, danishes and coffeecakes.

It's just starting to get cold at night so the homeless are wearing their layers of coats everywhere now. (It's so sad, I see so many wearing heavy coats in the heat of summer just because they have no place to store them - and they can't bear to think of the coming winter without that coat so they suffer through the summer. I wish we could supply a place to store them - and clean them, but I suppose efforts would be better spent on food and shelter)

So these men and women are coming through the chow line a little dirty, holding all the possessions they can fit under their arms while carrying a lunch tray.

Going for the protein and nutrients they get chicken and beans and a salad... then they came to my station for dessert. There's that part of me that thinks the last thing they need is a sugar crash, and another that knows the sweet treat must be a little slice of heaven in their world.

I smiled broadly at each of them. Asked them to tell me what looked good to them. I made sure they heard me say 'you're welcome' when they thanked me... and I called each of them sir. (I assume women don't like to be called ma'am! I don't anyway.)

It's not often that I can truly feel the Holy Spirit at work. But that morning I felt the strong presence of the Holy Spirit in that dining hall! What a blessing to be there and have an opportunity to help them feel God's grace in some small way.

Some of them asked for two and three desserts! Some of them faked me out... "I'll have the cake. Oh wait I didn't see the pie!" So I gave them both!
Whatever they picked, I told them to be sure and enjoy it. A few of them looked me in the eye and said, "God bless you."
Ohh! That touched me! I returned the blessing... "God bless you." But inside I thought.... "He has. Oh He has!"

Just a reminder to respond to those last minute arrangements when you think you have something more important to do. (I really needed to clean my house) Well, my house is still a mess, but my heart is still full.
I can't wait to share the experience with Mr. B the next time Ben gets a group together.

I Can't Commit!

2007-10-04T22:49:00.000-07:00

The main thing my home is lacking is art.

I've always been a little afraid of it I guess. More to the truth is... anything I really love is just out of my price range.

Part of my problem is that I don't want pictures (paintings) of things. I don't want a picture of a barn in my living room. A landscape... hmmm maybe.

My big pet peeve is paintings or drawing of things that you would already find in that room. As in... a drawing of a pedestal sink with a chair and towel in the bathroom. Uh. I'm in the bathroom. I see a sink and a towel. Why do I need a picture of it?

Even that really great painting of the dog lying on the bed... which I love! if I have a bed, and a dog... I can probably see that play out in real life.

I like photography best... but getting pictures big enough... or such that I want to stare at every day is just not so easy.

So I guess I'm drawn more to abstracts. Just give me a canvas with some color on it. If I have to think about what it might be... so much the better.

But today, in a little antiques store I found this beauty for $5.00!

It's a batik... the oil or wax is what stained the matting over time. I think it's a little lost in the tiny frame and green mat... so I'll frame it in a thicker black frame with a white or cream mat to make the flower pop a bit. Opinions?

Here's a close up out of the frame:

Someone drew a pencil line down it to line it up with the matting, as the art is (surprisingly - in a good way) bigger than I originally thought. I suppose there is no way to erase that line. Also there is the yellow green discoloration on the sides. But that may be the original color before it faded.

I already have a spare oblong black frame... and I thought I could mount it in there a bit off center.

like this... or maybe horizontally? Maybe best in a big square frame.

Or, do we think considering my dark wood furniture (and that the couch will be dark brown) that I should go for a nice wood finish frame rather than black?

I'm also thinking of playing with either watercolors or pastels to make two small complements to this piece... I'm thinking circles with the same colors... to hang in a cluster arrangement with this one.

Anyway. I feel like I'm finally off to a start.

So Far - Big Changes

2007-10-04T22:11:00.000-07:00

If anyone read this and it doesn't appear anyone has! - it must look like I haven't accomplished anything.
Well, I haven't! Work got really crazy and I met a great guy (one of the goals) so this page got back burner.
The only progress I've made has been in the Apartment Therapy realm. My inspiration is here: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/

My living room gained a marked improvement with the purchase of a this credenza last winter.

Big change from this mess eh?

I've also selected a new couch... the purchase of which is on hold. But I did get a new 8x10 cream colored shag rug. It was a super bargain!! When I went back to Omaha for a visit, I stopped at Nebraska Furniture Mart and found the exact rug I was looking for ... marked down to $200! That's as little as I can expect to pay for an 8x10!! Amazing!

For now it's rolled up in my hallway, pining for the couch so it can take center stage when the time is right!! big improvement eh?!

My Best Self

2006-12-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

Rather than make a resolution for New Years, I intend to make life changes that may actually make a difference - either in my life or others.

In some cases, the changes may seem frivolous. Some will be home improvements - intended to make my life easier or more organized... which in turn make me more productive - making more time to help someone else.

I'll be working on my house with the help of Apartment Therapy
My budget needs some serious attention (especially if I'm going to make home purchases!) Much of this site will concentrate on my decisions and changes in my home. Part of that goal is organization. But the great goal is to make my home a true reflection of myself so that guests will feel more welcome and comfortable.

Exercise will be a priority as well, because I want my body back! A health setback is partially responsible for depleting my muscle tone and I need to ease back in. My doctor insists that I take it slow... but my goal is to see dramatic physical changes by this time next year.

That of course is related to my next goal: I sort of took the year off dating in 2006, so 2007 has to be the year that I meet someone really special. (God willing!) and I want to look good for him - whoever he is!

Work is also a priority but I don't know how much of that will end up here.

This space is intended to track my progress and hold me accountable. Thanks for stopping by!