NJ Folk Festival at Rutgers Day

     When I found out that Leigh Ann and John Stratakos were going to be at the NJ Folk Festival I started to ask some questions.  So glad that I did.  It turns out we didn't have enough time to even scratch the surface of all the day had to offer.  To think the kids were excited with the shuttle service to our destination. (It was a bus. But these kids are in the burbs and we don't really do the bus.)
     We headed to the Ag Field Day first.  Em found a yellow flowering plant she simply HAD to have...so much so that she carried her sunny little pal around all day.  Face painting included a rocket and a cupcake.  The entomology tent held our attention for quite some time.  We checked out many different insects and their larvae,  cockroach races and specimens.  OH, and I saw the largest tarantula ever.  Huge.  Humongous.  Heart racing/pounding big.  I moved along as it proceeded to climb OUT of the tank as the nice student explained it to us.  We listened to music, ate snacks, purchased herbs and mingled with one of the most diverse groups of people (and their dogs) I have ever seen. 
     Then we moved on.  The Folk Festival was next.  Each year the festival honors a different culture of the world.  Quite a cool concept.  Though we missed most of the music and events at this section we did indeed enjoy some time with our MudWorks buddies.  They were kind enough to let us crash the booth for a bit.  Pony rides and some tag with a few instant pals from the booth next door made the sunny afternoon a bit sweeter.  The weather could not have been more perfect and I have slight tan lines on my arms to serve as a reminder of one of the first pleasant days of the spring. 
     As I peruse the brochure I am being made aware of the vast amount of things we missed.  Never saw the animals or dipped our fingers in the touch tank.  Missed some pretty cool bands.  Could have been a bit more selective with the food.  But there is always next year and for the first time there we did alright.  We had a great time.  The kids were thrilled AND we had some giggles with our pals.  As for the craft show -  though I am thrilled we got to spend some time in a booth...I am slightly nervous of the plans being developed by my 9 year old to "find something to make to sell here".   I am glad I enjoyed being a visitor because my daughter might have me working her booth soon enough.  

See a lawyer about Dad

     I have known her for years and now I am seeing her for actual legal reasons.  My Dad will be turning 85 in a few weeks.  With Mom gone I have had to do so much around here that he has never had to deal with.  So I will step up and get it done.  Step by step.  I now have another appointment set for a will and power of attorney.  I guess those can be future new things.  In the meantime, this little task will kill two blogs with one event.  Please see my crumblings for the real dirt.  And kids...don't get old.  Ever. 

Listen to the podcast Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

     I have to thank Christine for the suggestion.  Well, Mickey gave me the podcast idea and she expanded on it.  Thanks to both of you.   So, here I am listening to the witty and goofy banter of Michael Ian Black and Tom Cavanagh.  I have loved these two together since way back in the days of the quirky little show called Ed.  I think there were about 5 of us who watched it but that's ok. 
     I have had many giggles, am excited to listen to the others, have a few new people to follow on twitter AND I will need to get a bag of Cheetos as soon as possible tomorrow!  Thanks guys, thanks. 

Abundance mantra

     Today I read aloud a new mantra passed along to me from Leigh Ann.  It does indeed seem to fit in with my themes lately.  I felt good saying it.  I believe I understand what it means and will mean to me.  I am ready for the next phase of life and hope this keeps me on the path to find it.   You know, I take that back...I KNOW it will keep me on the path.  Hope has nothing to do with it anymore.  If I know one thing lately it is that the more you believe...truly believe...in the bottom of your soul...anything can happen.  Thanks lady for yet another inspiration. 

Dance with Andy the Armadillo

     You know when you are walking and you come upon someone else walking...toward you?  You dip to the left...so do they.  You dart to the right...yep, they do as well.  You find yourself going back and forth in some strange waltz type dance.  Well, tonight I did this with a 7 foot tall armadillo.  I was headed to the bathroom at a restaurant and there he was blocking my path.  "Excuse me Andy but I need to get by". Now don't be alarmed - he is the mascot of said restaurant and therefore allowed to be there.  Wouldn't want any random wild armadillo characters running amok now would we?

First lesson in video editing with Final Cut

     As you recall for my 100th day of the challenge I decided to celebrate by saying hello to 100 folks.  I did it in many different ways but my prior post explained all of that craziness.  Some filming was done over the course of a few hours and that footage has been sitting on my lovely little Flip.  Until tonight.  HOURS later I have my first little movie.  Up till now the only thing I had ever rendered was meat. 

My speech if I should win some award will go a little something like this:
I would like to thank my friends and family for putting up with my challenge.  Also to those of you who reached out to me on this day...I appreciate the help.  To my kids for coming along for the ride. To the White Family for the camera to make it all possible.  And to John for the Final Cut program, the expertise in video editing and the patience to spend HOURS teaching me how to bring my vision to the screen. 

Took the road less traveled by in a yellow wood

     I carried on many traditions today.  I tried some new things as well.  The day had its hard moments as one can expect but for the most part I tried to stay positive...since it's a day of rebirth and all.  At the end of the meal and the dishes things started to quiet down.  The sky looked light in some places and ominous and looming in others.  It was symbolic of the mood...I was dancing somewhere between sadness and joy at the same time.  I decided a walk with my sweeties was in order.  We headed to a little pond path we have been waiting to walk upon since the fall.  I've walked this path many times before but have always headed to the left at the place where it splits.   As I come to the spot...without fail... in my head I quote the famous poem and end up pondering its meaning.   Ironically, I always stay on the same trail.  Until today.  I thought my new would simply be a walk on Easter but I took it one step further and went the path less traveled.  The clouds held onto their droplets and the sun beamed through with rays that made the mountain glow and the budding trees sparkle.  We have a choice.  A choice to smile or cry, a choice to push or retreat, a choice to go the same way we always have or to make changes.  On this day of renewal I made a choice to continue on my path of the new and that has made all the difference. 

Shop at "Weekend Flea Market Bargains"

     I had a request for a blog post sans sadness.  I had to run some errands today to prepare for the holiday.   As we headed to the supermarket I thought I would take on a new adventure and enter the odd little building tucked in the rear of the parking lot.  It used to be a furniture store.  Now it is the Weekend Flea Market Bargains. 
      Odd.  Bizarre.  Depressing.  These are some words that came to mind as I browsed the strange counters and spaces set up in the large building.  I then realized if I looked at it as entertaining...I would enjoy it that much more. 
     These are some things you can find at the Weekend Flea Market Bargains store:  an Abraham Lincoln cologne bottle, Asian food items, hot pink inflatable electric guitar, saddle shoes, Right Guard deodorant, a 1920 barber chair, skis, a mink coat, a foil art piece of the Last Supper, an armless child mannequin, crossbow, bottle of Nair, and some unmarked bottles of jam...maybe...in reused salsa jars. 
     I took some photos of some of my favorite finds.  It truly was a little scary and sort of sad but it was an adventure and something I've never done before.  I like antiques and flea markets as much as the next person but this was more a trip into some odd other dimension and I took a deep breath of fresh air when I left the building.  Ironically, there was ONE item I would have purchased but it was marked NOT FOR SALE....but boy would we have had a blast with the one-man-band instrument complete with cowbell and tambourine!!!

Dinner at Antonio's with birthday celebratin' Aries.

     The ride was hysterical.  We also got to check out the new work space...very cool.  The dinner conversation was awesome.  The cake was delicious.  The waiter rocked.  It was another great night with the MudWorks crew.  Will I ever drive way out there for "Portuguese" food again....hell no.  But the chips (aka Spanish potatoes) on Leigh Ann's plate will probably be talked about forever and that alone made it worth it. 

Write a 62 word short story

     She waited for the buzzer to allow admittance through the large wooden doors.  She walked by the nurses station as she had done for weeks.  This time was different.  A phone call from a doctor would stop the world and strip sound and color from it...for just a moment.   "She has hours to live" he said.  The chair caught her fall. 

Gertrude Hawk chocolates w Greta and Wings with Paul and Mark

     This is a two-parter.   See, it was a rough morning.  I wasn't feeling so hot..physically or mentally.  After a few hours of work (which always seems to cheer me up a bit) I knew I had to be with my buddies.   I brought lunch over to my girls, Jenne and Greta.  For dessert we had some chocolates that I have never had before.  Sweets with my sweeties. That got me through the afternoon. 
     After a crazy afternoon filled with  a fridge repair guy, cleaning, piano lessons and report cards (when all I wanted to do was sleep with these allergy symptoms) I headed out.  I sat at a little local place and had a few wings with Paul and Mark.  They seem to like it here and we talked about topics as if we have been talking about them all of our lives.  Prince was a major one.  What started out a really grey day turned out to be alright.  Chocolate and Prince...you can't really go wrong with either one. 

Salad at Moe's

     Uninspired I know...but it's all I have today. 

Clockwork Orange

     Alrighty then...

Pass on the palm cross making tradition to Emily

     As long as I can remember I've been making those little palm crosses each day on Palm Sunday.  I would make one for my Mom and for the house.  The last few years found me making them for my children.  It is tradition to start with a fresh piece of palm and leave the church with my little assortment of crosses to be passed along to those I love.  Today, Emily watched and made two of her very own.  She gave one to me and one to her brother.   Though it was a strange feeling to know we wouldn't be bringing home some palm for my mother I'm sure she is proud to know the tradition has been passed along yet again.

Take in a play starring Mark

     It was a night of many firsts.  First time in Poughkeepsie, NY.  First time seeing the campus of the Culinary Institute.  And Marist.  And Vassar.  And the ruins of a winery from hundreds of years ago.  And dining/drinking at the coolest little place, Karma Lounge.  All of these little firsts were bookends for the major new event...a play at a divine little theater to watch In the Next Room. 
    This Sarah Ruhl play was nominated for three 2010 Tony Awards and has many themes including motherhood, breastfeeding, relationships and the Victorian ignorance of the woman and her sexuality in the late 1800's. 
     Mark played the doctor.  It was a tricky role but he pulled it off beautifully.  The characters were rich and exciting and you found yourself missing them when they left the stage.  It pulled you into the story and left you laughing hysterically one minute and weeping silently the next.  It was clever and
exhilarating and tender and poignant.  Sort of like life.  Many parts of the story struck a nerve and I doubt any woman in the audience went unscathed.   After the play I was compelled to thank the actors for such riveting roles and was even more excited to be able to spend time with Mark to get the inside scoop.  With such interesting topics we had much to discuss.  So my night in little Poughkeepsie was very enjoyable and  I know I have enjoyed a production when I would be willing to go back the very next day to enjoy it again...if it wasn't for the two hour ride I just might have. 
Mark...thanks for the great night and looking forward to the next show!!!

   

Coffee with Cheryl

     Emily was barely a year and my Mom had enrolled her in a Mommy and Me class.  I showed up with my little girl and met another mom with curly hair and a daughter named Emily.  They were wearing the same outfit.  We have known each other since.  Our girls went to the same elementary school for a few years too.  Our galaxies just seem to keep orbiting around one another through all of these years.  We have shared many a special conversation but most of them were in stolen little minutes here and there.  Today we actually made a plan and met for some coffee.  It was nice to catch up.  We discussed all sorts of important and not so important things over our fancy little coffees.  It was a break from the day.  Life has been challenging for both of us lately.  We fall apart when we need to, stay positive when it helps and share the burden from time to time with a sympathetic and understanding ear.  I had to get back to my broken down refrigerator otherwise we might have talked for hours.  It is nice to have a friend who gets you, who understands and who can laugh at all that life has dealt us. 
     It is not a coincidence when certain people come into your life.  It's no mere lucky break when you circle back around them for the experiences they share.  It IS a decision to value them and to reach out when it is needed.  I have a feeling our girls will be friends forever and I am so glad that all those years ago we were placed next to each other to sing and play and dance  with them.  Maybe THEN it was a gift to our babies but it turns out NOW to be a gift to us moms. 

Finish Eat, Pray, Love

     I was given this book for my birthday back in September.  I have been reading it in bits and pieces.  It seems I was picking it up when I needed to learn the next part of the journey.  It would eerily coincide with what I was feeling or missing that day.  It would confirm some path I was on...even if I am not fully aware of it.  Today is quiet.  It is finally sunny but the world is quiet.  Even my pooch has been snoring next to me as much as I am still and will allow her to.  It was quiet enough to read for a bit.  I am sad the book is finished.  I have loved it.  I am glad I listened to my close friend when asked to ignore the hype and the glory and just give it a read.  It was nothing like I expected and though the theme is close to my heart...it has so many different aspects that can inspire us all.  I will miss it though.  I mentioned missing my book at dinner last night.  I said that I was close and would be sad it was completed to which my little guy responded, "Then read it again".  Maybe I will. 
    I wish I could type all of the different lines that made me tear up or smile.  The moments that I read (while sitting in the sunshine waiting for my daughter to get out of school) that helped me to move on. There are so many quotes of brilliance, so many lines of honest and raw truth to tell you about.    In the meantime a little something that struck a chord toward the ending:
     "My thoughts turn to something I read once, something the Zen Buddhists believe.  They say that an oak tree is brought into creation by two forces at the same time.  Obviously, there is the acorn from which it all begins, the seed which holds all the promise and potential, which grows into a tree.  Everybody can see that.  But only a few recognize that there is another force operating here as well-the future itself, which wants so badly to exist that it pulls the acorn into being, drawing the seedling forth with longing out of the void, guiding its evolution from nothingness to maturity.  In this respect, say the Zens, it is the oak tree that creates the very acorn from which it was born.  I think about the woman I have become lately, about the life that I am now living, and about how much I always wanted to be this person and live this life, liberated from the farce of pretending to be anyone other than myself.   I think of everything I endured before getting here and wonder if it was me, who is now dozing on the deck of this small Indonesian fishing boat-who pulled the other, younger, more confused and more struggling me forward during all those hard years.  The younger me was the acorn full of potential, but it was the older me, the already-existent oak, who was saying the whole time: "Yes --grow! Change! Evolve! Come and meet me here, where I already exist in wholeness and maturity!  I need you to grow into me!" And maybe it was this present and fully actualized me who was hovering four years ago over that young married sobbing girl on the bathroom floor, and maybe it was this me who whispered lovingly into that desperate girl's ear, "Go back to bed, Liz..." Knowing already that everything would be OK, that everything would eventually bring us together here.  Right here, right to this moment.  Where I was always waiting in peace and contentment, always waiting for her to arrive and join me."
     So maybe I don't have a fishing boat to ponder life in nor the finances to eat in Italy for even a day let alone three months....but I do believe that  I am finding my own system.  I don't always give it the time and care I might need but I do what I can.  So I take each day and challenge it to meet me with its own challenge... a duel of sorts between the new and the old, the start and the end.  I will eat because I enjoy food,  I will pray in my kindness and I will love those that allow me to.

Mistook an Ewok for a turd

     My niece recently mentioned that she felt Grandma looking over them.  I was thrilled to hear that her daughter had made a face like my mother's.   It's been almost four months and I haven't had the feeling that my Mom was around somewhere saying hello.  Which, if you KNEW my Mom seems kind of strange and funny.  We always teased about she would haunt my ass.  I guess she was and I didn't even realize...I've scrubbed two bathrooms on my hands and knees for the first time in a long time.  I've made meals and snacks as if she had whispered into my ear what to make.  In fact, just last night and out of nowhere I blurted out "Kielbasa and Sauerkraut" as if a Jeopardy question had been asked somewhere on a tv in the distance.  I had been wondering what to make for dinner.  I would run to her room on days when I was stuck for a new idea and she would have one waiting on her lips.  Yesterday, the refrigerator computer on the door went bonkers...we blamed a short somewhere in the circuitry.  But I HAVE felt her.  I am sure she is getting a kick out of the cleaning I've been doing lately.  The Sally style cleaning that it is.  Last night I began to weep.  A long soft sad type of cry.  It took me into my slumber.  This morning I awoke with the continuation of a feeling of such loss and despair.  I miss her so.  I opened up a drawer yesterday in the crest room (half craft, half guest) and found my favorite childhood book...it was almost as if she led me to it.  She is everywhere lately.  So back to this morning...the tears were faster and bigger and the feeling was overwhelming.   The charging ipod in the hallway started lighting up in a weird way and hasn't done it since.  She was here and probably frustrated that she couldn't hug me and make it all better.  I got up on the opposite side of the bed today to look for tissues.  I looked down to see a weird chunk of cat litter (this of course isn't weird with my odd cat and goofball dog).  But as I followed the litter trail it led to a turd.  Ugh!  Not at 5:30 in the morning.  Only on closer inspection I discovered it was a plastic Ewok on his stomach.  It looked just like a turd.  This immediately put me into a giggle.  I thought about how hysterically funny my Mom would have found that.  We found humor in the oddest of places.  We spent twenty years poking fun of the time she thought a rock was a sheep on some field we were passing.  "Oooohhhh, look at the sheep!!!!" with such excitement.  I replied with a "Mom, that was a rock" and then laughed for what seemed like hours.  We still could and DID laugh about it all of the time.  I have her sense of humor.  It's weird and goofy and dark and sarcastic but it's us.  It also got me out of one of the saddest feelings I have yet to experience thus far and for that I thank her, the laughter that she taught me to love and the little plastic Ewok turd on the rug. 

Grab a random recipe from the stack and make it

     While flipping through a magazine if I found a recipe I like I rip it out.  I have a pile.  Today was a day of many chores and lots to do but I looked forward to trying out yet another new meal.  This particular recipe was from one of my Mom's Fine Cooking magazines. 

Mediterranean Kale & White Bean Soup with Sausage

      Though it was tasty and healthy it didn't blow me away.   It did,  however,  make for a lovely warm meal on yet another dreary and damp day.  Might not be a regular for the lunch truck but I would let it be a "special" on the menu from time to time. 

Watch the movie Waiting for "Superman"

     When I was a little girl I was very lucky to go to a very interesting school.  In retrospect I see all that I was taught and in more ways than my text books showed me.  By the third grade I was going home to not only do my homework but to teach my imaginary class.  I had a chalkboard, flash cards and a curriculum that included themes and books.  I was 8.  From that point on I tutored and assisted the teachers whenever asked.  I loved the smell of the buildings, the crisp new books and every single thing about a school.  Then I hit the 4th and 5th grade.  My teachers were not so desirable in more ways than one.  It was at that point my passion for teaching went beyond the love of learning and the desire to pass it along.  It went toward the idea that NO teacher should be allowed in a school building if they weren't there for the love of it.  I suddenly wanted to become a teacher to SAVE students from the teacher they might have had...had I not been there.  It was no surprise that I went to college for teaching. 
     East Stroudsburg University creates educators.  For four years I honed a craft for a passion that burned bright and bold.  I was eager to save the world one child at a time with the hopeless idealism of a young woman empowered by the certificate that accompanied the skills.  I was given two student teaching assignments.  One was amazing.  The teacher was seasoned and organized.  She was caring and dedicated.  Her class was a pleasure.  The second assignment rocked every belief that I had for most of my life.  The teacher was about to retire.  She was tired, bitter and angry.  She was disgruntled and preoccupied.  She also had streaks of racism.  Her room was next to another teacher's room that made her look like teacher of the year.  He was offensive and cruel and found his power in belittling the very children he was to be inspiring.  I left each day in tears.  I worked my lunch breaks to help the children that were neglected.   I was told that I had one week to learn the names of my 130 students in five periods and that I would be teaching them on my own.  Modifications would be needed for each of the groups.  I took failing children and showed them what it felt like to get an A.  I took disheartened students and gave them faith.  Their parents were also given faith.  But I was only there for a short time.  It was enough to break my heart and dull my passion.  I felt powerless.   Teachers with tenure and packages were making these hallways unbearable...and this was back in 1994. 
     I have rants about education all of the time.  I heard statements in this movie that I have been saying for years.  It made me very sad.  It made me very angry.  I think the only thing stopping me from screaming or bawling is that the two are in such conflict neither emotion can win.  It has reminded me of the passion though.  The need to save.  There are many wonderful teachers out there.  Many.  I know quite a few.  But the truth of the matter is...there are a ton of horrible teachers that should not be allowed the privilege to stand in the classroom and call themselves a teacher.  The movie showed a structure that worked.  It showed dedicated men and women that proved it can be done.  Anywhere.  Regardless of race, financial status or location.   Have really fantastic teachers!  Make them accountable at all times.  Give them support.  Give them a reward system.  Any business in this fine country has a system of checks and balances with reviews to determine job status and safety.  Why would we not give the MOST IMPORTANT job that this country has to offer to society absolutely no such system.  There are hungry, idealistic and inspired men and women all over just waiting for the chance to shine...and those classrooms should never be taken up by someone who wants the summers off or easy hours.  Struggling and devoted parents should not have to hope and wish that their child comes home reading at the proper grade level.  Yes, parents do hold responsibility in all of this but the teacher is getting paid to teach.  TEACH!  It should be an honored profession treated with the respect of a doctor.  There would be no lawyer, no surgeon, no computer software millionaire without the teacher. But the respect should be deserved.  The system should start from the top and work its way down to the bottom and all should have a common goal.   I watched this movie in complete disbelief that this rich and incredible nation allows any of this behavior.  It is a basic right.  I could go on for hours about all of the factors that contribute and the changing times that have added to the mess.   What it really boils down to though is that each and every classroom should have a shining star.  Each subject should be made interesting.  Every child should have a fair chance.  We should not have to wait for one superhero to fix it all...there should already be a hero right there at the front of every classroom.
(For those of you wondering why I am not currently in a classroom saving the world...well I took the opportunity to be the best teacher I could to a couple of really important kids - my own.  But saving the world one child at a time is STILL on my to do list!)

Say hello to 100 people

     To honor 100 days of this crazy idea I thought I would celebrate and say hello to 100 people.  It seemed easy enough but here I am at almost 11pm exhausted.  It had moments that were truly funny like when the man on the bench replied with "Do I know YOU?!?" and a look of horror to compliment the tone.  Other moments were cute.  Young girls tend to answer right back.  But it was sort of sad at one point when I realized that the simple act of saying "hello" to a stranger seemed almost offensive.  They were disconcerted as well...more so when they spotted my Flip.  What kind of society have we become that a hello is a cause for concern? 
    I tried to balance out the system.  Some were texts or bbms.  Some were in person.  I tweeted a few certain American Idol kids.  There were facebook chats and wall messages.  I got really excited when some of you reached out to me to help in my mission.  Thank you for that!!!  I sent a few emails.  I did a "hi by" or two.  Get it?  Huh?  C'mon...it's like a drive by but I said hi.  And then there were the cranks all over town.  So here is the list of the many of you that made my zany little mission possible...and there just might be more to come on the topic.  I've counted several times and am at the cross-eyed point where I keep getting different numbers...there are 100 I promise!(or 101 or 98 1/2)

Toots-Emily-Ethan-lady outside of DD-Dad-man eating bagel-man in line-Dr. Claire-Gramary-guy in truck -car wash attendant -jogger-garage sale chick-Victor-shopping cart lady-lady walking-Jenny the cashier-guy w hat-Ella-Miguel-Mark-Jeff-Jon-Andrea (excited to be Mattingly's number)-Laura-Theresa-Jason-Carrie-Tommy-Leigh Ann-Jenne-Jill-Brad-Greta-girl in pink skirt-guy on corner-crazy bench guy-walking guy-parking lot guy-post office guy-Easter Bunny-cell phone guy-Roger-girl w ukulele- Philly T shirt girl-guy leaving cafeteria-hat guy-girl w backpack-sweatshirt girl-baseball crowd person-person in chair-student at game-walking man-SCOOTER LADY-phone lady-pole girl-cane lady-carrying something guy-group girl-man crossing street-starbucks customer-boy with van of soda-JoAnn-Tina-Zulay-Aimee-Sharon-Cinde-Patty-Eric-Gabby(best response to hello text with "hello Earthling")Theresa-Sandi-Danielle-Mickey-Kate-Nicole-Steve-Fred-Donna-Karoly-Andronica-Stratakos-MJ-Theresa-Yoko-Chuck-Christy-Frank-Grace-Jason-Samantha-Tyler-Mike-Chris-Sean-James-Ryan-Gina-Paul McDonald and Casey Abrams!!!

Hobby Lobby

     Emily was given a gift card for this store so we dedicated today to check it out.  It's huge.  We made our way past the odd seasonal items and rows of strange "decor" items to get  to the depths of the craft world.  Rows of paper, stickers and stamps got the drool going.  Markers and kits and beads and baubles made us squeal.  The material, the frames, the easles....oh man.  It was all very cool.  There were aisles dedicated to science projects, car models and teeny tiny little soldiers and diorama items.  I was overwhelmed at the choices.  At one point I exclaimed something about how I just didn't know where people began with the endless possibilities. 
     After what seemed like hours we headed back to the scrapbook kit from American Girl.  It was a really nice little starter package for something that we all seemed interested in.  We also picked up a cute little paper flower kit hoping to get a start on some upcoming holidays.  Oh, and Ethan needed a random package of scrapbook stickers titled "Fast Food" complete with a hot dog, fried chicken, ice cream and some condiment packets...gee, don't know WHY he would like that?!?!  Though he carried it around faithfully at the store the entire time at least I didn't have to tuck it in.  Hobby lobby, we'll be back.

Send a tweet to someone famous that I admire and get a response

     I've been on twitter for a bit now.  I say it's the dark side of me fighting for the keyboard.  Most of the time I can be slightly sarcastic (who me?.....NOOOOO!!!!!!).  I say some funny stuff.  I send out my little bits and pieces to the few people who care.  Lately, I have been following more and more people.  I get recipe ideas, mommy ideas, hear tales and most importantly laugh.  People are funny.  I love funny.  I also get the behind the scenes of life.  I follow a few American Idol kids, watch to see when my favorite singer might be going on tour and hear about what people are doing when the camera is off. 
     Why the need for two blogs, a tumblr, facebook and twitter?  I have a voice I guess.  I say this in a whisper.  I also talk  to people who don't really hear if I get the opportunity to talk at all.  Mostly, I seem to listen.  I have also lost the woman who listened...who begged to hear every detail.  I am digressing...sorry.  The point is twitter is something I looked down upon or didn't grasp at first and now I realize it's fun.  Plus it edits my verbose ramblings...errrrr.....nah...I don't ramble.  There's that sarcasm again. 
     So just last night while trying to get my buddy Ingrid Michaelson to respond I started to follow Fabio Viviani.  He was on Richard's twitter list and I was very excited to find him.  Just this morning I fired up twitter only to see that he was answering some questions.  If you don't know who Fabio and Richard are then you don't watch Top Chef.  I asked him when he was going to have his own show and he responded almost immediately with "when I am offered a show I believe in".  I already thought he was pretty awesome and now I just respect him even more.  Now, if you'll excuse me I have to go research some hambooger recipes...fabio's tweets are the first place I'll look.

Interview Cinde via facebook chat

     You've all heard about my bff, Jenne.  Well she is awesome and she has a cousin who is pretty terrific as well.  She gets us.  She is the chick who has sent me little goodies because she thought of me and my goofiness.  I have a cake ring, a bacon wallet and bacon bandages because I'm weird and she felt inspired to celebrate it.  She takes amazing photographs and celebrates life and I love her spirit. 
     I left my new thing to the bitter end tonight but sometimes in these moments where I open myself up for some new fun...it comes to me.  I popped on facebook and posted the need for a new thing idea.  Her response..."stuff 10 marshmallows in your mouth".  Now I not only usually have them around and would love to rock the Blue Man Group vibe but we are currently out of the pillows of sugar.  Next...."tarzan yell in your yard at the top of your lungs".  This seemed dangerous with it being spring and bears and skunks running amuck.
     So I suggested an interview before she had me drinking tequila with my dog in my undies on the front porch.  I asked...she answered.  Favorite Ice cream:  chocolate!!!  Middle name: Campbell...very cool bc it's a family name.  Best age so far: 40's ( I was excited to hear this yet again as I am 38 and love the idea of the best still waiting for me!)  Favorite place you have traveled:  Nana and Poppop's house and Hawaii.  Years at National Geographic: 27.

Finally, when asked what words of wisdom would she pass on to me - this was her response:           "trust yourself....your instincts/heart whatever you want to call it....it's there for a reason

and really.....stop giving a shit what other people think, it's a waste of energy.

let yourself be happy".

    So there you have it.  I have found a connection to what I've been trying to learn lately and the symbols and guides along the way.  I have been talking about my gut instincts for the last two days.  I have been digging for them.   They were strong and for years I have buried them.  I can't ignore them for they are too big lately.  And just when I needed to hear it...poof...there it is.  Ironically, my instincts told me to bug Cinde for some reason and sheesh, I guess now I know why!!!  Thanks lady!

Make a clay butterfly button

     I worked today.  After doing some packing and shipping I headed down to the inner sanctum of pottery land.  Lots was happening because orders are plentiful and the team is prolific.  I was shown a few new things to do and was happy to help in the process.  As we talked about every topic under the sun I realized I had no plans for my new thing.  I was invited to cut out a form from the clay that would grow up to be a button.  It was a butterfly.  There it is again...the symbol of transformation.  It serves as a constant reminder lately of what is happening.  I would like to thank the ladies of MudWorks and the universe for the gentle and kind reminder.   Now we just need a sunny and warm day to try out these new wings...

Cluck U with the Little Man

     Ethan eats at Cluck U quite often with his Dad.  It works out nicely for the mornings that I work.  Plus, overall it is a pretty healthy little helping of protein and he devours the chicken bites so it's a win win.  One day last week he brought it home with him and ate here instead.  I had a taste.  Mmmmmm.
It was quite delicious and I've been thinking about those tender little morsels ever since.  So today when Ethan was pondering what to eat I realized I could make it my quest.  (This new thing per day sometimes works out really nicely).  We headed on in to Cluck U and ordered up some honey hickory yummy goodness.  I had a lovely lunch date with my little guy complete with sweet chicken and even sweeter conversation and I have a feeling it won't be the last time.

Use an accent at the Dunkin' Donuts drive thru

     Today was work, chores, laundry, dinner, dishes, and running Dad around on some errands.  I didn't feel motivated to do something new.  In fact, I wanted to go to bed around 3.  Life doesn't allow that though.  Right around 7pm I finally felt inspired to do something...GET A COFFEE from the Dunk.  So I hopped into the car and blasted some music with the goal to come home with a stroke of genius for my new thing.  As I pulled into the drive thru...I felt something...and before I could stop myself I was ordering my tall light and sweet with mocha in an accent.  A horrible one - but an accent nonetheless.  Halfway through my order I thought about bailing but then I figured if I finished I would HAVE my new thing of the day.  I committed to the nonsense and completed the order with what seemed to be an accent that got progressively stronger (and more horrid) with each word.  By the time I reached the attendant I was giggling.  Seems I got my little pick-me-up from the drive thru even BEFORE my large coffee reached my hands!

29 Gifts

     Today was a day of many firsts.  Sometimes I wish I could spread them out because that seems to happen from time to time.  I won't complain though because I think it's a pretty amazing thing to have many firsts in one day.  One particular one stands out.
     My dear friends, Sandi and Ousmani, have begun a challenge of 29 Gifts.  She started a blog and everything and I am very excited about it.  She was checking out some other blogs and stumbled across something that has inspired her and in turn is inspired me and my daughter.  29 gifts in 29 days.  You give.  That's it.  Simple.  You give of your time, work, money, gifts, love...whatever.  My little buddy made me a beautiful card complete with butterflies.  (Yet another reminder of my recent metamorphosis...the symbol seems to be everywhere!)  I already had my gift for her picked out and waiting.  A butterfly pin sparkly and beautiful just like her.  Strange how these things work.
     It will be a challenge to find some more time in each day to make sure we are doing even more than we already do.  It will take creativity at times...maybe some energy.  It will also remind us how much we all truly need one another.  Take the focus off of what's insignificant and remind us of what really matters...how much people need to know that they are valued, how much we appreciate them and how much they are loved. 
    

Dine at Sweet Lorraine's

     I made the mistake of watching the Top Chef finale at 6am the other day.  I have been craving good food...really good food since.  So on this warmish almost sunny day I thought of a place I haven't been to in years...Peddler's Village.  Though I was disappointed that a few beloved shops were closed  I was quite excited with a great new restaurant find. (New to me that is).  The menu was eclectic and sophisticated and the ambiance was wonderful.  I went with the jerk chicken nachos, the "fire island" coconut shrimp and the pear and mixed greens salad with hazelnuts, dried cranberries and gorgonzola.  Little samplings of each to go with my yummy mango iced tea/lemonade.
     The menu had an assortment of dishes I would like to try as well as appealing vegetarian meals.  I highly recommend the restaurant.   I say all of this as I pretend I am a restaurant critic.  If you think that's silly then I shouldn't tell you that while dining and deciphering sauce ingredients  I was playing Top Chef judge as well.

April Fool's Day prank on facebook

       I adore April Fools.  Weird I know.  I have pulled some pretty juicy pranks over the course of my life.  Today I just wanted to have a little fun.  At first I was going to go with "join the Peace Corps" but when I researched their site I thought it sounded too amazing to play around with the idea.  Plus, we all know how I feel about my friends and family right here so 27 months away at this point in my life would never do.  I went with another slightly less crazy and more believable concept...moving to NY.   "Apartment searching in NY". 
     Those of you who know me VERY WELL...replied with a  "very funny" and I could hear the sarcasm and tone through the computer or phone text.  Some of you were in on the deal and it really helped...thanks.  Others, I gave a little scare.  To those of you I apologize but hey, it's the day and I am festive with all holidays.  One friend was kind enough to send me links to apartments she was researching for me.  I beat the panic of my employers and let them in on the secret...jobs are hard to get these days...lol.  A couple of you were thrilled and proud for making such a bold move...wah waa waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa....sorry to disappoint.  I was going to allow this shenanigan to go on all day but I am starting to replace my morning giggles over the whole thing with feelings of "my bad".  So I will pull the plug and come clean.  Now,  I have to cut this short and fill in my application for a cdl license...ice trucking pays well and looks really exciting!