Imagine a street on Halloween like a movie set. Houses decorated with over the top fright. Street lamps shining down upon ankle deep maple leaves. Children squealing with delight. Now...imagine it soooooo crowded that they need barricades and you hope you don't lose your kid by the end of the night. Oh, and they give out little tiny rock hard candies because they will see kids by the thousands. Thousands. Not even lying. The little neighborhood of charm and wonder turned into crazyfest over the last few years and became a bit much.
Tonight, we headed to a new neighborhood. I've been candy hunting with Jenne for almost as many years as I've been taking my children out...but this year we moved the location. It was quaint and the people were quite friendly and in her very own neighborhood we actually could say hello to people that we knew. Candy was better. The occasional scary mask was a treat. Other than dodging puddles and snow and rock salt...it was really fun.
Thanks to the little octopus for letting the two 50's kids join in the excitement!!!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Mom's Birthday...without Mom
We had a snow day yesterday with thunder. Very out of the ordinary. Very. It gave me a day of calm. A day I needed. Mom used to call them "burn out days". She would sense that the pace was getting to me...the high grades, the sports, the drama of childhood. Sometimes I needed a break. Sometimes she did and needed the company. Either way when it snows before Halloween and gives you a power outage and forces you to read magazines that you never get to...oh and there is thunder... it makes you wonder. She can be pretty persuasive. There is something sweet about a 5 year old and an 85 year old playing chess together by candlelight. Peace was here last night at my house after a day of rest. Her daughter needed a "burning the candle at both ends day" off from real life.
Today was her official birthday and the sun was shining brightly. Our power was out only long enough to give us some down time and grab some extra blankets but not enough to be a nuisance. We all sat around the table for breakfast with sunshine pouring in through the windows. We went to church. Got donuts. It was nice. Simple. While children were occupied I spent some time in her room. I dusted the dresser that still holds her trinkets and knick knacks. I cleaned the mirror that holds the pictures of her dear grandchildren. I talked to her as if she was right there because I knew she was....nagging me to move things back to the way she had them. I even said out loud, "ok, ok". We would've been smiling and giggling about the silly things we always found so funny. I honored her space. I moved things. The little schedule that I would make for her was still tucked under the glass of her nightstand from a long time ago. Things were trapped in time. Ten months later I know that those things being there doesn't mean that she will be there but I sure as hell know she would be yelling to clean them up. I cleaned and talked and smiled knowing she would feel so much better knowing I was doing what she couldn't for my father.
I then grabbed my daughter and headed to a place that caught my eye this morning. As we headed over the bridge driving to town the sunlight blazed upon a patch of gingko leaves. The wind and snow knocked the leaves off of the big tree to form a giant sea of yellow happiness. Emily was in her glory surrounded by her favorite color. Bits of snow mixed in with crayon shavings added a little bit of magic to the waterfall spot we would visit often. We took pictures of the beauty of it all. It's an odd feeling when autumn isn't quite finished and winter comes barging in....even if only for a short stay.
We stopped for gas. It hit me. If we can have thunder during snowstorms...maybe we can hit the powerball. In we marched to buy two tickets. One of them with all of the numbers that mattered to Sally. We talked about what we would do and who we would helpif when we win.
As for dinner, well...only one way to go. The Willow Tree. It was a bonus visit because of the Halloween decorations I have been promising for my little guy to see for years. We ate together in her honor. My mother and I had shared many a lunch there...together...just the girls. I'm sure she is mad I didn't get the escargot but I fear not even a brave new girl can face the little snails. Not yet, anyway. I've learned to never say never.
This week has been rough. It was always a favorite time of year. Her birthday and our favorite holiday so close together. She lived for the grandchildren in costumes and decorations. She'd given out a bar or a thousand in her time. But today was the celebration of her. I lived a full day of cherished moments. She was right there with me...free of pain. I wouldn't dare be sad for a woman who made us all so happy. When you live to honor the lost...when you carry on their wishes...when you refuse to waste another moment of life...it gets easier to let them go. We hold onto them for us. Now, I imagine she is always there watching...so I sure as hell better do it right!!! I'm sure she was with me for the day so I needed to take her to do the things she would've liked.
There was an odd peace to a day I was so scared to see. I guess it's not that odd...actually makes sense I suppose. She was always there the biggest when I needed her the most and today was no exception. Happy Birthday, my dear Mom...we all love you so. Oh and by the way lady, don't think I don't know that you were the little whisper in the ear of 9 year old girl when she was requesting Halloween costumes! 50's theme it is!!!
Today was her official birthday and the sun was shining brightly. Our power was out only long enough to give us some down time and grab some extra blankets but not enough to be a nuisance. We all sat around the table for breakfast with sunshine pouring in through the windows. We went to church. Got donuts. It was nice. Simple. While children were occupied I spent some time in her room. I dusted the dresser that still holds her trinkets and knick knacks. I cleaned the mirror that holds the pictures of her dear grandchildren. I talked to her as if she was right there because I knew she was....nagging me to move things back to the way she had them. I even said out loud, "ok, ok". We would've been smiling and giggling about the silly things we always found so funny. I honored her space. I moved things. The little schedule that I would make for her was still tucked under the glass of her nightstand from a long time ago. Things were trapped in time. Ten months later I know that those things being there doesn't mean that she will be there but I sure as hell know she would be yelling to clean them up. I cleaned and talked and smiled knowing she would feel so much better knowing I was doing what she couldn't for my father.
I then grabbed my daughter and headed to a place that caught my eye this morning. As we headed over the bridge driving to town the sunlight blazed upon a patch of gingko leaves. The wind and snow knocked the leaves off of the big tree to form a giant sea of yellow happiness. Emily was in her glory surrounded by her favorite color. Bits of snow mixed in with crayon shavings added a little bit of magic to the waterfall spot we would visit often. We took pictures of the beauty of it all. It's an odd feeling when autumn isn't quite finished and winter comes barging in....even if only for a short stay.
We stopped for gas. It hit me. If we can have thunder during snowstorms...maybe we can hit the powerball. In we marched to buy two tickets. One of them with all of the numbers that mattered to Sally. We talked about what we would do and who we would help
As for dinner, well...only one way to go. The Willow Tree. It was a bonus visit because of the Halloween decorations I have been promising for my little guy to see for years. We ate together in her honor. My mother and I had shared many a lunch there...together...just the girls. I'm sure she is mad I didn't get the escargot but I fear not even a brave new girl can face the little snails. Not yet, anyway. I've learned to never say never.
This week has been rough. It was always a favorite time of year. Her birthday and our favorite holiday so close together. She lived for the grandchildren in costumes and decorations. She'd given out a bar or a thousand in her time. But today was the celebration of her. I lived a full day of cherished moments. She was right there with me...free of pain. I wouldn't dare be sad for a woman who made us all so happy. When you live to honor the lost...when you carry on their wishes...when you refuse to waste another moment of life...it gets easier to let them go. We hold onto them for us. Now, I imagine she is always there watching...so I sure as hell better do it right!!! I'm sure she was with me for the day so I needed to take her to do the things she would've liked.
There was an odd peace to a day I was so scared to see. I guess it's not that odd...actually makes sense I suppose. She was always there the biggest when I needed her the most and today was no exception. Happy Birthday, my dear Mom...we all love you so. Oh and by the way lady, don't think I don't know that you were the little whisper in the ear of 9 year old girl when she was requesting Halloween costumes! 50's theme it is!!!
Listen to my Cousin as a Guest on a Podcast
My cousin, Christy, is one of my heroes. She lived one life full of crunching numbers and corporate America and then dumped that one to follow her passion. She is now a chef, traveler, blogger, beekeeper and gardener...you name it. She tweets and status updates and blogs and fills my brain with delicious recipes and the tasty imagery to accompany the information. Oh, and before the list of ingredients comes a darn good story to give you the inspiration to make the dish. Christy loves Halloween and does it up right. She was featured on a radio show and podcast, A Mom of Many Hats. The show is about celebrating the lives of those who try to do it all. No limitations...just the encouragement that is needed in the exhausting job of doing everything. Christy was featured because of her many terrific ideas on how to celebrate Halloween. She also makes things simple and therefore even more awesome....not that she couldn't compete on Top Chef....and I would love it if she did...but sometimes it's just about the basics that make things so great. I only wish I lived closer to be a taster of many a recipe test!
It was a strange and unseasonably cold day. We went on to get many inches of snow while the autumn leaves were still falling. I started my day snuggled in bed with a cup of coffee and a podcast that got me in the spirit and made me smile. Thanks, Christy! Happy Halloween!!!
If you are in need of a great new blog full of tasty recipes and even tastier stories be sure to check her out at: fudgeripple.blogspot.com
It was a strange and unseasonably cold day. We went on to get many inches of snow while the autumn leaves were still falling. I started my day snuggled in bed with a cup of coffee and a podcast that got me in the spirit and made me smile. Thanks, Christy! Happy Halloween!!!
If you are in need of a great new blog full of tasty recipes and even tastier stories be sure to check her out at: fudgeripple.blogspot.com
Friday, October 28, 2011
Popcorn Buddha
I might love popcorn...a tad. Ok, ok...it is my thing. If there was one snack food that I run to it is popcorn. There is something about the salt and the crunch. While leaving the parking lot of my kids' school the sign grabbed my attention. Today was the day. 60 flavors. SIXTY. They are broken down into themes like cheese, chocolate and fruit. You get to sample them and they come in all size bags for any budget. Tonight I grabbed 6 bags of 6 flavors (little $1.50 mini bags) and took them to the infamous Jalloween party. These were the flavors: Loaded Baked Potato, Mac-n-cheese, Movie Night Butter, Dill Pickle, Sour Cream and Chives and get this...the girl loaded up two flavors in one bag...hot wings with ranch. How awesome is that? All of the flavor of wing night with the calories of popcorn! Win. Win. Service was as terrific as the popcorn. All sorts of cool packages if you want to make it a gift and they let you see where it is made fresh! Needless to say, we WILL be stopping on in for some new flavors very, very soon!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Staff Meeting at MudWorks
JoAnn has been working her ass off for years. Team members have come and grown. The business has moved...multiple times. I started working there back in January. The timing was perfect. 3 hours 2 days a week. Which turned into 5 hours. Which turned into 3 days. Then 4. The company is growing. Catalogs are buying her pottery...and she still touches the clay for a ridiculous amount of time each and every day. The store is up and stocked. Classes are offered. Special events draw in whole families to enjoy a moment together. Girl Scout Troops, birthday parties, art shows...you name it. It is a company based on good old fashioned hard work, creativity, service and passion.
Today we sat around a table complete with a box of donuts and had our first official staff meeting. There is a ton going on and plenty to do so we needed to join up and figure things out. It's a great batch of people. I am glad to have a job in these tough times. I am blessed to have a flexible one that allows me to be where I am needed. I am lucky to be around some hysterical and kind and wonderful people. JoAnn, Leigh Ann, John, Christa, MJ, and who could forget Flash...thank you. The universe also needs a big fat thank you from me for this one...with or without the Boston Cream!
Today we sat around a table complete with a box of donuts and had our first official staff meeting. There is a ton going on and plenty to do so we needed to join up and figure things out. It's a great batch of people. I am glad to have a job in these tough times. I am blessed to have a flexible one that allows me to be where I am needed. I am lucky to be around some hysterical and kind and wonderful people. JoAnn, Leigh Ann, John, Christa, MJ, and who could forget Flash...thank you. The universe also needs a big fat thank you from me for this one...with or without the Boston Cream!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Kale Chips
Yep, you read right. I'll wait and see who makes fun...I know a few off the top of my head. Farm fresh kale (washed and cut), olive oil and salt for 10 minutes in a 350° oven. Delicious... but kale ranks at the top of my veggie list normally. Say what you will but I got my veggies today!!!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Passed on Wings and Made a Salad
Another crazy day. It would've been a heckuva lot easier to grab some fatty wings and a beer or two. I opted for housework, mom stuff, farm share pickups and lunch prep. Now, somewhere in my 39 years I am sure I skipped an invite for wings and made some sort of salad....possibly during college. BUT, I know I never put a darn fresh-from-the-farm daikon radish in it. Tastes a little like spicy dirt I have to say but here's to hoping the dressing balances out the zing.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Ben & Jerry's Late Night Snack
I heart Jimmy Fallon....so I had to try his ice cream....especially when I heard there were fudge covered potato chip clusters. Oh and the clusters are hiding in vanilla bean ice cream and salty caramel swirls. I purchased it over a week ago but waited for a night that needed a new thing. I also was quite careful with other points today. 1/2 cup of this bad boy was 8 points in WW...3 more than my entire lunch. But Ben, Jerry and Jimmy ---it was well worth it!!!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
2 Miles for 2 Girls for Dove Self-Esteem Wknd
This weekend Dove had a mission for women. This is part of it:
Imagine a world where beauty is a source of confidence, not anxiety. Dove® is committed to building positive self-esteem and inspiring all women and girls to reach their full potential–but we need your help.
They then went on to list a whole series of activities for women and girls. A celebration of women. It was a special weekend to make time for the thing we all could use more of...self-esteem. I've been missing my track walks as well as girl time with my nine year old...so to the track we went to have a little of both. We had two whole miles to discuss things. We talked about things we were really proud of about ourselves. At nine years of age the nervous laughter and quiet voice proves that she is already growing uncomfortable tooting her own horn. We worked through it...we listed things we liked about each other as well as ourselves. Turns out this little exercise to help my young daughter...worked quite nicely for both of us. It is nice to know that she likes her musical abilities, is proud of herself as a student and thinks her hair is cool. We also talked about goals that we have for some of the things we want to improve. Oh and I found out that her latest career path has moved from teacher or vet to surgeon. Not a bad direction for a bright little girl.
Life gets busy for all of us. But when I decided to become a mother I also decided to do way more than the basics. I push constantly to do all that I can to be supportive in a million little ways as well as the the major biggies. My little girl has different needs now...and I'm realizing that time is more important than ever. One on one with homework, quiet times for talks, more entries in the Mother-Daughter journal we started a while back, a fan at recitals, a volunteer at school...the list goes on and on. I also have to know when to be the training wheels and when to let her fly. I gauge quite carefully. I sneak in the little life lessons every chance I can. I am gentle with her spirit. I try to model the behaviors that she needs to learn. In teaching her to be a good person I reinforce those lessons with myself. My mother passed many wonderful things to me...but there were a few spots that needed improvement...and sometimes I put them in the spotlight. I don't want her to need anyone to tell her how amazing she is...I want her to know on her own. Sure, she has been told she is a gift since she is little but today we took the steps for her to learn that she herself can be her biggest source of strength...2 miles worth of steps...and only the beginning of the journey.
(Hey ladies! Life is hard. We all work to be more. To be better. We all struggle each day with the way we look, how much we weigh, bad decisions we have made and a bazillion other issues. Don't forget to tell yourselves how much you rock. Also, don't forget to tell each other. Be kind. Be supportive. Ease the judgement. Be fair. Give support not criticism. Make someone smile today. Give a friend a hug. A stranger a favor. Celebrate the sisterhood that we live in!!!!)
Imagine a world where beauty is a source of confidence, not anxiety. Dove® is committed to building positive self-esteem and inspiring all women and girls to reach their full potential–but we need your help.
They then went on to list a whole series of activities for women and girls. A celebration of women. It was a special weekend to make time for the thing we all could use more of...self-esteem. I've been missing my track walks as well as girl time with my nine year old...so to the track we went to have a little of both. We had two whole miles to discuss things. We talked about things we were really proud of about ourselves. At nine years of age the nervous laughter and quiet voice proves that she is already growing uncomfortable tooting her own horn. We worked through it...we listed things we liked about each other as well as ourselves. Turns out this little exercise to help my young daughter...worked quite nicely for both of us. It is nice to know that she likes her musical abilities, is proud of herself as a student and thinks her hair is cool. We also talked about goals that we have for some of the things we want to improve. Oh and I found out that her latest career path has moved from teacher or vet to surgeon. Not a bad direction for a bright little girl.
Life gets busy for all of us. But when I decided to become a mother I also decided to do way more than the basics. I push constantly to do all that I can to be supportive in a million little ways as well as the the major biggies. My little girl has different needs now...and I'm realizing that time is more important than ever. One on one with homework, quiet times for talks, more entries in the Mother-Daughter journal we started a while back, a fan at recitals, a volunteer at school...the list goes on and on. I also have to know when to be the training wheels and when to let her fly. I gauge quite carefully. I sneak in the little life lessons every chance I can. I am gentle with her spirit. I try to model the behaviors that she needs to learn. In teaching her to be a good person I reinforce those lessons with myself. My mother passed many wonderful things to me...but there were a few spots that needed improvement...and sometimes I put them in the spotlight. I don't want her to need anyone to tell her how amazing she is...I want her to know on her own. Sure, she has been told she is a gift since she is little but today we took the steps for her to learn that she herself can be her biggest source of strength...2 miles worth of steps...and only the beginning of the journey.
(Hey ladies! Life is hard. We all work to be more. To be better. We all struggle each day with the way we look, how much we weigh, bad decisions we have made and a bazillion other issues. Don't forget to tell yourselves how much you rock. Also, don't forget to tell each other. Be kind. Be supportive. Ease the judgement. Be fair. Give support not criticism. Make someone smile today. Give a friend a hug. A stranger a favor. Celebrate the sisterhood that we live in!!!!)
Main Street Antiques
I was feeling sort of low today. The new thing is my best friend on these days. A simple drive down good old Main Street always gives me something new. I popped into a beautiful little antique shop full of really good old things. Not junk. Quality. It was a great distraction and then a player piano started up and....
(You'll have to read my OTHER blog to see what happens next!)
(You'll have to read my OTHER blog to see what happens next!)
Friday, October 21, 2011
Gabby's 10th Birthday and the Infamous Ice Cream Cake
A decade. A whole decade has flown by. Zoooooooom. Little tiny Gabby is in the double digits. She has grown into quite the kid. We have danced side by side for many a song...here's to another decade of the same! Happiest birthday to my little friend! (Oh, and the cake....oh man....yummmm!)
IF Institute
My daughter has joined the ranks of the gifted kids. They are celebrating these little whipper snappers with a special day each month. Children from the district's elementary schools join up in one centralized location with a team of teachers and a themed day of extra special fun and learning. Part of today was tie dye! It was a blast to be on the inside of a wonderful new pilot program and to watch these group of kids light up as they went from activity to activity. My cuticles might be multi-colored for a bit longer but it was worth well worth it!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Aubrey Leland
I was reading a blog post about friendship when the text came. The post was about how friends need to find the time to connect. What better way than to spend hours in a hospital waiting for one of life's most amazing moments...the birth of a baby. We have been waiting...and bugging...and texting...and wondering for days. But she is finally here. And she is perfect.
When this group gets together (and we seem to as much as the universe will allow) we have a blast. It is a funny and loud group. We laugh. We laugh a lot. We cherish the things that matter...family comes as the top of the list. I will speak for myself though...for what I believe to be true for all of us...that we are family even though we do not share the same blood. We are a sisterhood that has seen decades together. These bonds are strong and true. We rush to each other when we need support. We celebrate the beautiful. We honor the lost. We laugh. We encourage. We laugh some more.
Five perfect and brilliant and gorgeous babies later (yep, a little biased)...we have now all shared the moment of life with one another. A hallway full of family... and us...the girls that created the bonds of sisters even without the genes that went along.
THIS time it was extra special. It defied the odds of science. It tightened the bonds of an amazing little family. It gave a few girls who missed the first time around...a second chance. It's not often in life you get that second chance...that you get to heal that wound. When the big sister runs out to tell you that it's a girl...the emotions overwhelm the soul. Minutes into a brand new sparkling little life and you can see the love that this family has for one another. Real love. Beautiful love. I cried when I heard she came into the world. I sobbed a bit when I saw her. I did again as I hugged a proud Papa...the same cry that I had when I welcomed him into the family at the wedding just a short time ago. This all happened at 1am. It was not the last time that I cried. Today my thoughts were full of a sweet little baby and the life that she has in front of her. Tonight, I got to hold her. Did I mention she was perfect? I said hello and she responded with the most sweet little noise. She is quite brilliant you know. Dad is an expert at swaddling. Big sis is rocking her title with grace and sweetness. Mama is too amazing for words. Am I crying again right now? You betcha.
I can ramble on and on for hours about how proud I am of a woman that I am lucky to call friend. I can continue for a few more hours about the man that is her partner. I can swoon over the family that they have created. Heck, even their dog is the coolest pooch muppet ever. I could...but instead I will just say how much I love them all and am grateful for the gift of their friendship and the joy of their sisterhood. Congratulations!!! Little Aubrey, you are luckier than you will ever know!
When this group gets together (and we seem to as much as the universe will allow) we have a blast. It is a funny and loud group. We laugh. We laugh a lot. We cherish the things that matter...family comes as the top of the list. I will speak for myself though...for what I believe to be true for all of us...that we are family even though we do not share the same blood. We are a sisterhood that has seen decades together. These bonds are strong and true. We rush to each other when we need support. We celebrate the beautiful. We honor the lost. We laugh. We encourage. We laugh some more.
Five perfect and brilliant and gorgeous babies later (yep, a little biased)...we have now all shared the moment of life with one another. A hallway full of family... and us...the girls that created the bonds of sisters even without the genes that went along.
THIS time it was extra special. It defied the odds of science. It tightened the bonds of an amazing little family. It gave a few girls who missed the first time around...a second chance. It's not often in life you get that second chance...that you get to heal that wound. When the big sister runs out to tell you that it's a girl...the emotions overwhelm the soul. Minutes into a brand new sparkling little life and you can see the love that this family has for one another. Real love. Beautiful love. I cried when I heard she came into the world. I sobbed a bit when I saw her. I did again as I hugged a proud Papa...the same cry that I had when I welcomed him into the family at the wedding just a short time ago. This all happened at 1am. It was not the last time that I cried. Today my thoughts were full of a sweet little baby and the life that she has in front of her. Tonight, I got to hold her. Did I mention she was perfect? I said hello and she responded with the most sweet little noise. She is quite brilliant you know. Dad is an expert at swaddling. Big sis is rocking her title with grace and sweetness. Mama is too amazing for words. Am I crying again right now? You betcha.
I can ramble on and on for hours about how proud I am of a woman that I am lucky to call friend. I can continue for a few more hours about the man that is her partner. I can swoon over the family that they have created. Heck, even their dog is the coolest pooch muppet ever. I could...but instead I will just say how much I love them all and am grateful for the gift of their friendship and the joy of their sisterhood. Congratulations!!! Little Aubrey, you are luckier than you will ever know!
PTO Meeting at Smithfield
At the old school I went to lots and lots of events. I also went to the meetings that helped to plan said events. It was a packed house full of wonderful parents who really wanted to be an active support system for the educations of our children. Last year was the first year at the new school and it was a very hard year to volunteer for much at all. This year TWO little Pecks are at Smithfield and I take motherhood quite seriously. I have already clocked in for five events which is pretty good for mid-October. Plus let us not forget the entire day I will spend helping out the new program...more about that soon.
I took it a step further and went to my first PTO meeting. All 14 of us sat there and discussed everything from fund raisers (be prepared to order some stuff oh loved ones :) to upcoming events. I was also somehow signed up to be a room parent...yet another new thing! The meeting was very informative and taken very seriously by a group of amazing people. I applaud them for getting so much done and making the lives of our children even better. I would love to be even more involved and take on a more active role but I do what I can when I can. Now, remember to keep a budget for holiday shopping that will not only give someone a lovely gift but will also help a sweet little school raise some funds!!!
I took it a step further and went to my first PTO meeting. All 14 of us sat there and discussed everything from fund raisers (be prepared to order some stuff oh loved ones :) to upcoming events. I was also somehow signed up to be a room parent...yet another new thing! The meeting was very informative and taken very seriously by a group of amazing people. I applaud them for getting so much done and making the lives of our children even better. I would love to be even more involved and take on a more active role but I do what I can when I can. Now, remember to keep a budget for holiday shopping that will not only give someone a lovely gift but will also help a sweet little school raise some funds!!!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Adam Mamawala
Tonight I checked out a very young comedian. He was really funny and as usual Leigh Ann and I were the two loud ones cracking up the entire time. I give the young ones a chance for a few reasons. 1. It is a free show. 2. I like the fact that they are so appreciative. 3. Young means they are yet to be discovered.
Here is a small list of some names you may recognize...I saw them while at ESU back in the day when they were young as well:
--Jay Mohr
--Margaret Cho
--Dave Chappelle
--Chris Rock
Adam Mamawala...good luck and thanks for the laughter!
Here is a small list of some names you may recognize...I saw them while at ESU back in the day when they were young as well:
--Jay Mohr
--Margaret Cho
--Dave Chappelle
--Chris Rock
Adam Mamawala...good luck and thanks for the laughter!
Cranberry Bog
A few hours in the woods with a tour guide to see the bog and my mind was blown. First off we were trekking through land that was going back about 10, 000 years when some glacier did it's thing. We were viewing flora and fauna that would normally be seen in Canada...because...get this...the conditions are the same. It is such a unique space that it has been studied by scientists from all over. Then we found out some little details about how peanuts are carcinogenic, honey can be unsafe and the teaberry leaves are quite toxic. Back to the bog...it has pitcher plants, cranberries and all sorts of lichen, moss and fern. Crazy looking plants that you just don't see in the everyday world. As we meandered through the bog on a floating boardwalk we were taught about so many things. I couldn't get past the idea that the sphagnum moss and various layers of the bog go down something like 40 feet. I kept trying to wrap my head around so many concepts. We felt the temperature drop as we made our way in but that wasn't the only thing that made us feel like we were in some other world. It was truly a unique feeling traveling through the woods and into the belly of the bog. Oh and when you add an awesome tour guide (professor of botany), cranberry snacks, a couple of friends and a free reservation...it made it all the better!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Chocolate Wine
When Mary goes into the liquor store and comes back with a bag and some excitement...be afraid, be very afraid. It tasted more like a mixed drink loaded with alcohol than a wine and the first sip knocked my head off. Think grain alcohol meets yoohoo. One small taste will take this new thing to the "never have to do that again" category. I'll stick to loving my chocolate and appreciating a good glass of wine but the two can stay on opposite sides of the glass.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Bake an Apple Pie
We all have our apple pie. That thing that we want to do and just never attempt for one reason or another. It might even be silly to not do the thing we want to try. I made two babies. I jumped out of a plane. I grew up in the Bronx. Yet, there are things that for one reason or another intimidate me...and they don't always make sense. So with all of the cooking, baking and creating I have done through the years I have dodged the homemade crust and juicy filling of an apple pie. I know a few of you are yelling, "NO WAY?!?!". I apologize oh foodie cousin, niece and a few others.
Earlier this afternoon the pate brisee was made and put in the fridge to chill. This evening the apples were sliced...the very ones that were picked last weekend in the beautiful Hudson Valley. A pie was then assembled complete with a little apple and leaf design on top. I am smelling it now as it bakes for the last moment or so....be right back!
The pie is out of the oven! It is beautiful and golden and bubbling. I want to dig in and eat it but it is coming on midnight and it needs to cool for hours. It will be there tomorrow waiting to say good morning as it sits on the counter. I was even sure to get vanilla ice cream should someone want the perfect accompaniment. The house smells divine and I wonder if we will all dream about desserts tonight. Tonight we will dream and tomorrow we shall dine on a fresh yummy pie on a chilly fall day.
Do YOU have an "apple pie"? What is holding you back from doing it? I have to tell you that I just did a little dance all by myself in the kitchen at nearly midnight. It is always so much more than just the task...it is the success as the reward for letting go of a fear. Fear can be tiny or huge. What can be a regular thing to one person might be completely foreign to another...so there is no need to judge. I am already thinking of the designs I can make in future crusts or the countless fillings that can be used....guess it's not such a fear after all. Poof. This DO the NEW has done wonders!
Face a little fear and conquer it...it will give you strength for the bigger ones. Go find your apple pie and show it who's boss!
Earlier this afternoon the pate brisee was made and put in the fridge to chill. This evening the apples were sliced...the very ones that were picked last weekend in the beautiful Hudson Valley. A pie was then assembled complete with a little apple and leaf design on top. I am smelling it now as it bakes for the last moment or so....be right back!
The pie is out of the oven! It is beautiful and golden and bubbling. I want to dig in and eat it but it is coming on midnight and it needs to cool for hours. It will be there tomorrow waiting to say good morning as it sits on the counter. I was even sure to get vanilla ice cream should someone want the perfect accompaniment. The house smells divine and I wonder if we will all dream about desserts tonight. Tonight we will dream and tomorrow we shall dine on a fresh yummy pie on a chilly fall day.
Do YOU have an "apple pie"? What is holding you back from doing it? I have to tell you that I just did a little dance all by myself in the kitchen at nearly midnight. It is always so much more than just the task...it is the success as the reward for letting go of a fear. Fear can be tiny or huge. What can be a regular thing to one person might be completely foreign to another...so there is no need to judge. I am already thinking of the designs I can make in future crusts or the countless fillings that can be used....guess it's not such a fear after all. Poof. This DO the NEW has done wonders!
Face a little fear and conquer it...it will give you strength for the bigger ones. Go find your apple pie and show it who's boss!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Take a pic of Em-pie and E-dog
I live practically on the border of the Delaware Water Gap. I get to pass the cutest little Village Farmer Bakery almost daily. I have had many a pie from them. They also have a great little special with a hot dog and a piece of pie. Oh, and a wooden stand with holes for your head to transform two people into a hot dog and a piece of pie with the words "True Love". I have gone by it, eaten there and purchased many a pie...each time promising to post a pic. Today I pulled over on the way home from picking up the kiddies and took a shot. I did not get a pie...
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Lifeclass Webcast
Tonight I did double duty and watched the life class as well as the follow up webcast. I have to say that a huge part of me was fearful of making it my new thing. I was worried about the judgement of it all. Last night I was so worried that I even joked about you groaning as you read my post. Then I realized I had to make it my new thing because it would overcome the need for approval. Today was a big day. I had an hour of serious counseling followed up by an hour of introspection. I dealt with the table full of bills. I reached out to two dear people who helped me with their love and support. I was also pleasantly surprised by who did the supporting. I had asked the universe for a new support and bam...I got one in the most interesting place. The theme of the morning was about believing in myself. Finding myself. Not dulling my shine for the benefit of others. This webcast was the icing on the cake I have been baking all day.
Here are some bits of brilliance:
* 95% of what we believe as adults comes from our childhood around the age of 5 or 6. (Be careful with your little ones...what you teach them now will form the adult they become!)
*When you know who you are then you don't care what people think.
*Our thoughts are our energy. Our themes and patterns run our lives. What you say to yourself all day is a link to our habitual behavior.
*You don't become what you want...you become what you believe.
*Every relationship we are in teaches us the next lesson. Every job. Everything.
*Anger is the result of a trigger that brings up the feeling that comes from childhood. (Maybe we should all think about what makes us angry!)
*Affirmation + action = miracles
*Get quiet and spend some time with yourself to hear the true voice of what we are supposed to do.
*Making yourself small doesn't help other people. (I need to say this over and over!)
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us." Marianne Williamson
Here are some bits of brilliance:
* 95% of what we believe as adults comes from our childhood around the age of 5 or 6. (Be careful with your little ones...what you teach them now will form the adult they become!)
*When you know who you are then you don't care what people think.
*Our thoughts are our energy. Our themes and patterns run our lives. What you say to yourself all day is a link to our habitual behavior.
*You don't become what you want...you become what you believe.
*Every relationship we are in teaches us the next lesson. Every job. Everything.
*Anger is the result of a trigger that brings up the feeling that comes from childhood. (Maybe we should all think about what makes us angry!)
*Affirmation + action = miracles
*Get quiet and spend some time with yourself to hear the true voice of what we are supposed to do.
*Making yourself small doesn't help other people. (I need to say this over and over!)
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us." Marianne Williamson
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Oprah's Lifeclass
Oprah is back. I can hear the groans now. I don't care though. Years ago she got me to pick up A New Earth and it began a shift in me like no other. I read it. I followed the webcasts. I started to make changes. She mentioned more than once that you need to read certain parts over and over to really get them. It's been years now since I've read it. It changed my life. I thought that was it. I had no idea that it was just a sample of the changes I would be experiencing. It was the appetizer for the huge seven course meal I was about to devour.
I am ten months into the challenge of the daily new thing. I thank this challenge on a daily basis for helping me to strive to be better, to do more, to keep going. Some days might seem simple but it is usually in those days I have done something very complicated. The days where the new thing is "hard" is because I have made it my main focus. Some days I just need something to keep me from falling apart. Yesterday I set the dvr to record Oprah and her new show. But by late tonight I knew I needed to watch it. It is one of the hardest days yet and no new restaurant, craft project or recipe will fix it. I needed to go back to the beginning of the movement. She just happened to be right back there, too. The universe works that way if you are open to it.
So it's nearly midnight and I've just been reminded about the basics of Tolle. The ego needs to be recognized in order to take away its power. I had been spending all day asking, "Why ME?!?". That was the ego popping up again after a very long time of keeping him caged up and hungry. I've gotten quite good at seeing things very differently....but he gets us when we are tired, weary and broken down. The show reminded me about some key points. Stuff isn't who we are. When we do for others in order to get something back...it is the ego. It will lead to resentment. It's ok when others have an opinion because we are the ones who decide to give it power or not. She even talked about being a certain weight and how if you are bigger it puts people at ease which then makes them comfortable with you...which then gives you their approval. So many things I really needed to hear today more than any other day in months. This battle to be more than I've been... feels like boot camp, a full-time job, labor and everything else that is hard. It is relentless if you are doing it right. I'm up for the fight but tonight I needed the support. Earlier, in my other blog I wrote of "aha moments". It was way before I saw the show...in fact I started that post a while back but never posted it until today. I didn't even know Oprah had a new show starting up until just yesterday. An aha for an aha has to be worth some special Oprah bonus points, right?!? It is now midnight and I puffy eyed girl needs to get some sleep. I apologize if some of this doesn't make sense. I apologize if you hate Oprah. But since my ego is in check I won't be offended...see it's working already!!!
I am ten months into the challenge of the daily new thing. I thank this challenge on a daily basis for helping me to strive to be better, to do more, to keep going. Some days might seem simple but it is usually in those days I have done something very complicated. The days where the new thing is "hard" is because I have made it my main focus. Some days I just need something to keep me from falling apart. Yesterday I set the dvr to record Oprah and her new show. But by late tonight I knew I needed to watch it. It is one of the hardest days yet and no new restaurant, craft project or recipe will fix it. I needed to go back to the beginning of the movement. She just happened to be right back there, too. The universe works that way if you are open to it.
So it's nearly midnight and I've just been reminded about the basics of Tolle. The ego needs to be recognized in order to take away its power. I had been spending all day asking, "Why ME?!?". That was the ego popping up again after a very long time of keeping him caged up and hungry. I've gotten quite good at seeing things very differently....but he gets us when we are tired, weary and broken down. The show reminded me about some key points. Stuff isn't who we are. When we do for others in order to get something back...it is the ego. It will lead to resentment. It's ok when others have an opinion because we are the ones who decide to give it power or not. She even talked about being a certain weight and how if you are bigger it puts people at ease which then makes them comfortable with you...which then gives you their approval. So many things I really needed to hear today more than any other day in months. This battle to be more than I've been... feels like boot camp, a full-time job, labor and everything else that is hard. It is relentless if you are doing it right. I'm up for the fight but tonight I needed the support. Earlier, in my other blog I wrote of "aha moments". It was way before I saw the show...in fact I started that post a while back but never posted it until today. I didn't even know Oprah had a new show starting up until just yesterday. An aha for an aha has to be worth some special Oprah bonus points, right?!? It is now midnight and I puffy eyed girl needs to get some sleep. I apologize if some of this doesn't make sense. I apologize if you hate Oprah. But since my ego is in check I won't be offended...see it's working already!!!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Columbus Day at Cici's...let me explain!
Years ago Columbus Day meant wearing red and eating homemade Italian...or at least going somewhere good. Sometimes we went to the parade down in Jersey and everything. The last few years while I was home it meant a big meal of yummy favorites. This year was different. It helps me explain this sandwich generation thing once again though for those of you who have missed it. I spend my time describing the new thing that I have to do each day but don't forget that it is somewhere between the necessary and the to do list.
Last week was tricky with big school projects and more work related tasks. Today was some catch up. Lots of chores and tasks...laundry and cleaning...practicing instruments..etc. But it was also the holiday and I can't just let them go. No red was worn this year. In fact, I didn't even think of it. What we did was lots of what needed to be done both for our chore chart and our sanity.
We started out the day with breakfast at our favorite little diner with two of our favorite girls...Jenne and Greta. Afterwards, we did things like detail the interior of the car, sort laundry into five piles, start the wash, dishes and vacuuming. Emily had not one...but two instruments to catch up on. Fun days here make for more work there. Mixed in between the work there was snuggling to watch Ellen, paper airplanes with Pop and a little baseball in the yard but by 3pm I felt that urge to "do it all for everyone" kicking in. The sandwich that I talk of has many layers. To the park we went. Pop Pop can watch the kids play...the kids get sunshine and exercise...win, win, win. Somewhere before the dog park, more laundry and a moved piano lesson we needed dinner. Favorite pizza joint numero uno...was closed. (As was the other one...shhhh, don't tell numero uno we have a back up.) So out came the words, "Let's try the new Cici's!".
Salad, soup, pasta, pizza and desserts for cheap. Sure I might never need to go back and TUMS will be my friend for the night but sometimes we have to do what we have to do. It's the sandwich. The sandwich is simple some days like a pb&j but other days it is a complicated fancy shmancy sandwich that takes work. Somewhere in between the mayo, meat and cheese...I have to find a new thing to inspire me to keep going, a safe thing to recharge my soul and a happy thing to make me do it all over again tomorrow. And sometimes you just need to fill up on bad food that reminds you why you cook most nights! So just for today the ships were the Nina, the Pinta, the Santa Maria and the Cici!
Last week was tricky with big school projects and more work related tasks. Today was some catch up. Lots of chores and tasks...laundry and cleaning...practicing instruments..etc. But it was also the holiday and I can't just let them go. No red was worn this year. In fact, I didn't even think of it. What we did was lots of what needed to be done both for our chore chart and our sanity.
We started out the day with breakfast at our favorite little diner with two of our favorite girls...Jenne and Greta. Afterwards, we did things like detail the interior of the car, sort laundry into five piles, start the wash, dishes and vacuuming. Emily had not one...but two instruments to catch up on. Fun days here make for more work there. Mixed in between the work there was snuggling to watch Ellen, paper airplanes with Pop and a little baseball in the yard but by 3pm I felt that urge to "do it all for everyone" kicking in. The sandwich that I talk of has many layers. To the park we went. Pop Pop can watch the kids play...the kids get sunshine and exercise...win, win, win. Somewhere before the dog park, more laundry and a moved piano lesson we needed dinner. Favorite pizza joint numero uno...was closed. (As was the other one...shhhh, don't tell numero uno we have a back up.) So out came the words, "Let's try the new Cici's!".
Salad, soup, pasta, pizza and desserts for cheap. Sure I might never need to go back and TUMS will be my friend for the night but sometimes we have to do what we have to do. It's the sandwich. The sandwich is simple some days like a pb&j but other days it is a complicated fancy shmancy sandwich that takes work. Somewhere in between the mayo, meat and cheese...I have to find a new thing to inspire me to keep going, a safe thing to recharge my soul and a happy thing to make me do it all over again tomorrow. And sometimes you just need to fill up on bad food that reminds you why you cook most nights! So just for today the ships were the Nina, the Pinta, the Santa Maria and the Cici!
Apple Picking
As a kid there were certain things my Mom did not find the need for. It was absolutely forbidden to play in the fire hydrant (aka johnny pump, fireplug) because we had a pool in our very own backyard. We also had a big gorgeous apple tree that grew outside my bedroom window. We ate them as they ripened and fell off. We then collected the big batch in the autumn and made applesauce. It was as sweet and wonderful as the childhood memory. I just recently figured out that it is also the reason we probably never went apple picking. Why bother? With all that we used to do why tie up a day?
All of these years later I have never been picking. I've plucked pumpkins from a patch, picked blueberries in Rhode Island and found just the right flowers and veggies at the farm...but go to an orchard and find the right apples...never. Until today.
We drove all the way to Lawrence Farms in Newburgh, NY. It was 85 and sunny. More beach weather than fall....but we carried on with a wagon and some bags and gathered our fruit anyway. 10 or so types of apples later...though we aren't sure which is which...we are ready for lots of apple recipes to follow this week. The day was completed with a lovely dinner with the McCauley Family...thanks so much for sharing in my new thing! Last year corn, this year apples...what will next autumn have in store?!?
All of these years later I have never been picking. I've plucked pumpkins from a patch, picked blueberries in Rhode Island and found just the right flowers and veggies at the farm...but go to an orchard and find the right apples...never. Until today.
We drove all the way to Lawrence Farms in Newburgh, NY. It was 85 and sunny. More beach weather than fall....but we carried on with a wagon and some bags and gathered our fruit anyway. 10 or so types of apples later...though we aren't sure which is which...we are ready for lots of apple recipes to follow this week. The day was completed with a lovely dinner with the McCauley Family...thanks so much for sharing in my new thing! Last year corn, this year apples...what will next autumn have in store?!?
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Jacobsburg Hike
I am typically the type of person who lives in a place and drinks in all the place has to offer. I'm not sure how I've lived here all of this time and missed out on this little chunk of paradise. Today I took a ninety minute hike around Jacobsburg. I didn't exactly stay on the trail that I intended to but it worked out alright. The views were breathtaking and the temperature was lovely. It felt like a trip to far away even though it wasn't. I was grateful for the sunshine and look forward to going again someday!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Greek with a Greek
Twice a year we are lucky to eat the delicious food of Greekfest. I've been doing it for years. It all began way back when with my folks. It is a tradition but tonight...and for the first time...I went with Leigh Ann. As we talked and laughed over gyros and baklava it all felt just a little more genuine. Opa!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
American Horror Story
I love a new show. The hope and promise excites me. I love a good horror story. Sure, maybe I'm an adult who is then afraid to go all the way downstairs and down a dark hallway to go to the bathroom but maybe the pounding heart can count as cardio. Combine the two and you have twice the thrill.
I found it to be quite good. I hope the critics and the people enjoy it as much as I did but as long as it builds up to the fun of Halloween I'm set.
I found it to be quite good. I hope the critics and the people enjoy it as much as I did but as long as it builds up to the fun of Halloween I'm set.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Physical at the Supermarket
A few posts ago I joked about tb tests and physicals at the supermarket....well today I did precisely that. In preparation for my return to the subbing list I need 3 clearances, a tb test and a physical. Fingerprinting at the UPS Store was comical. Going to the doctor down aisle 3 behind the deodorant is even funnier. I was in and out quickly and got terrific care...and a surfing cat bandage as a bonus! If you recall my left pointer finger failed the fingerprinting test...let's hope I pass this one! One step closer!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Someone uttered the words that they were on Pinterest more than Facebook. This got my attention. I know that I heard about it a bit ago and poked around but I don't think I had the time to delve into the world of it all. Today I did. It's everything that I like about Tumblr in addition to being everything that Tumblr is not. Think more creative inspiration than merely reposting over and over again. Sure you can just like an image but I get the feel that this is more about ideas to carry out with your children, cooking, crafting, designing...well you get the vibe. I started up my boards and played around just a bit. Immediately I was charged with new ideas. Sometimes I wonder what we were all doing with all of this time long ago. Then I remembered...oh yeah...we were scrolling through a bazillion cable channels and watching commercials. Now I watch a limited amount of recorded television and get to see what is out there in the world. From brain rot to inspired soul...not a bad trade off!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Throw Away my Hoodie Woobie
If grown ups get to have a woobie...then mine is my red hoodie sweater. It's my hoodie woobie. It is the perfect shade of red. It is a beautiful thick knit...not some boring cotton sweatshirt. It was worthy of wearing with a pair of jeans and a shirt underneath. It got me through many a cold night and many a cold. It was my go to cover up. It worked before pregnancy, during, after. It had a hood if I needed to snuggle or hide. It had perfect pockets. There were even strings to play with...and sometimes even chew on. Oh, don't judge...you know you do it too. Well a few years ago a worn thread turned into a pulled string and little by little it unraveled. Think Weezer song. It was comical though because the two holes formed in spots where the hood attached to the back...looked like two giant eyes. Spiderman was mentioned as I would wear it backwards to make my little one giggle. I can't wear it in public. It's just time to let go. I am fine with dumping the loads of stuff I've been unloading lately but this one is a toughie. In fact, I have had it tucked away in a closet and though I have grabbed it to throw it out time and time again...I just never had the heart. It is late on a dreary Monday and I have no new thing for the day. It is times like this I know what I have to do. Now some of you will say it is not necessarily a new thing. I disagree. It is the equivalent of a child letting go of his blankie and living on his own. Tonight I will throw my red Old Navy oh so perfect sweater into the trash. I've had it for so long I couldn't tell you how many years....but I can tell you that at 10:31pm I will be without it. Goodbye Woobie...you were a good friend and you will be greatly missed.
Ironman and Scrabblegirl
It has been hectic to say the least. Every now and again we need a day to recharge. The dreary weather and the hacking children sealed the deal. Plus, when Gramary visits it is usually day for her to recharge as well. PJ's stay on longer. Meals are warmer. Snacks are abundant. We started the day watching the Ironman competition ride by the house. I was thrilled that bikers would be zooming by my front row seats of the porch swing while others had to find a spot to cheer them on. I marveled at the bikes they rode on, the gear they wore and the machines that they are as athletes. I can hope it proves as some sort of inspiration to get my bike out of the garage. Did it inspire us to go out...nope. We found ourselves around a table for hours playing Scrabble and munching. My nine year old decided she was ready to give the game a try. It was her first time and therefore my first time playing with her. After losing twice she was determined to win...and that she did! She beat both her mother and her grandmother. I might be in trouble...
Clay Pumpkins at MudWorks
Yes, I dressed the kids and myself in orange. In fact...Emily had a jack-o-lantern face on her shirt. It was the first annual pumpkin making event at MudWorks and it was a blast! It was a packed house and lots of work all day but the faces on the kids as they created their works of art from a flat piece of slab clay made it all worth it. Emily came along as an assistant and did a great job. The rest of the crew joined us later on and I can't wait to see how they all turned out. Why carve a pumpkin that you will have to throw away when you can have a ceramic one that will last always? Next up...ornaments!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Fingerprints at the UPS Store
On my quest to get back to teaching there are various steps to take. Some are simple enough...it's just a matter of actually doing them. I finally had the time to head to the UPS store for digital fingerprinting. Yep, where they sell balloon covered puffy envelopes and cardboard is where you go. I have been fingerprinted recently for my census job but it was with good old fashioned messy ink. This was with a machine. It beeped when your finger passed and the screen went green. My digits did well except for a pinky that is apparently not so swift and a pointer that must have a record of some sort. I'll find out in a few weeks if Mr. Pointer pointed at the wrong person but so far one of my three checks has come back clean so I think I am safe. Fingerprints at the UPS Store.....sheesh, what's next....TB tests and physicals at the supermarket??? ;)
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