So it seems that I have seen one too many inappropriate films at way toooooo young of an age. I was little when horror was at quite the peak and the video tape and video store were just being born. This meant many scary times for a little girl with an already large imagination and a thirst for the bizarre. But somewhere in there a mother might have just prevented certain films from being seen....you know, like Amityville Horror IN the theater. Or Halloween. Let's do some math. These movies came out in '78 and '79 and I was born in '72. See what I mean?
My mother (unlike many parents of today) did what she wanted more often than what her child needed. I could list the movies to make you raise your eyebrows...and maybe they explain why I am the way I am today...but I'll stick to the topic.
The Exorcist was first seen while sitting at the foot of the bed while my parents were comfy under safe blankets. My mother found it funny to do the scary demon voice and my response was a slap to her mouth in pure terrified fashion. I was a child who attended Catholic school with nuns and priests and statues and fear of the red guy. This movie scared the hell out of me. For years. I mean....like until I JUST saw it again. My pals from work mentioned that they were going and I am trying to reconnect with my love for the frightening especially this time of year...so I went for it. This time I realized how long and drawn out the intro is, I analyzed the special effects and make up and didn't feel scared at any point. The gentleman who introduced the Revival Series movie reminded us that at the time it was new and groundbreaking and if you had a religious background it definitely would bother you more than if you had not.
I am a grown up now with a spirituality that doesn't allow the gloom and doom of the red hot basement. Not to say that there isn't evil in the world because I do believe there is...but it doesn't have the hold on my fears as it used to as a child. There is a part during the exorcism when the priest is reminding the other not to listen to the demon. The demon will go for the hot button items and pull at the very things that can rattle the man trying to expel this force. He grew weak at times and fed into it. It gave me a huge lesson in the way people sometimes communicate. Some go for those buttons because they are easy. Others get sucked into the triggers. We need to remind ourselves that the darkness will sometimes take the back door and sneak up on us...but really we need to just be clear. We need to be the light. So this little girl got a beautiful message out of a scary, scary movie and had a fun October night with her friends while hiding behind our scarves. Thanks, Marq, Hannah, Leigh Ann and John for making a life long fear...a fun night at the movies.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Chofan
I'm coming to a point now where on certain days I am doing more than one new thing. I worried about this at first...fearing the need to stretch things not to come up short somewhere else. I realized this went against everything I was trying to perpetuate. So now I bang out multiple new things some days and I pick and choose or make a wacky little theme. On this adventure I hit a little local town that I've been to before...but in a whole new way. We took a different road to get there and approached it from the other side. Jim Thorpe (previously known as Mauch Chunk) was celebrating their Fall Festival (another new thing) as seen by the absolutely packed streets. Tourists from all over the world were there snapping photos of the picturesque town. The foliage was stunning and served as a gorgeous backdrop to a town that is unique and charming. Hunger struck and we returned to a restaurant that we have eaten in before but this time I went for a brand new dish to split with my little guy. I had no idea that a culinary lesson would sprout from a dish of rice. I researched it when I came home and found this:
"An estimated 30,000 people of Chinese origin live in the Dominican Republic. Migration from China began in the second half of the 19th century and continues to this day. Chinese immigrants opened popular eateries known as Pica Pollo all over the country selling a combination of Dominican and Chinese food. They also opened more upscale Chinese restaurants in the main cities, and these became popular with the locals. In this way the Dominicans of all socio-economic levels got to know and love Chinese food, going as far as to make some dishes of their own, including chofan (chow fan)."
Imagine all you love about fried rice but better because it is layered with way more flavors.
Well, let me tell you that I have thought about that plate of goodness since that very day and need to return to the quaint little "Switzerland of America" to get me some....and soon!
"An estimated 30,000 people of Chinese origin live in the Dominican Republic. Migration from China began in the second half of the 19th century and continues to this day. Chinese immigrants opened popular eateries known as Pica Pollo all over the country selling a combination of Dominican and Chinese food. They also opened more upscale Chinese restaurants in the main cities, and these became popular with the locals. In this way the Dominicans of all socio-economic levels got to know and love Chinese food, going as far as to make some dishes of their own, including chofan (chow fan)."
Imagine all you love about fried rice but better because it is layered with way more flavors.
Well, let me tell you that I have thought about that plate of goodness since that very day and need to return to the quaint little "Switzerland of America" to get me some....and soon!
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Looper
I saw this movie days ago but the post was put off. Now, I am thrilled that it waited until now. I say "it" because sometimes I am guided.
First off....GREAT movie. It gives you tons to ponder, keeps you on your toes and c'mon the whole young/old Bruce is mind blowing. It has also created plenty of conversations. It is full of action, yes...but I got a big old theme out of this film. We live in loops. Not just sci-fi futuristic loops that involve gangsters but our own terrible loops. We learn them. We practice them. They become what we do. And just like the movie once you become a looper the only way out is escape or sure death. Yet we live like we have thirty years and bundles of silver to spend should we find our way to "freedom".
Are you in loops? Honestly, are you stuck? Are you pushing yourself to be better...do better? Were you taught these loops as a child and don't even realize how much they are a part of you? Awareness is the first step. It is crucial. After it comes practice, education, hard work and healing. But the first step out of the loop is about as scary as showing up on a tarp with a bag over your head and a time travel stop thirty years away with a gun pointed at you. Be honest with yourself...and others...and break the cycles. We can break them so that we are a little bit better than the ones who broke the cycle before us and not even as good as the ones who will come after. It is our duty to ourselves, our families and loved ones and the future generations of this world.
First off....GREAT movie. It gives you tons to ponder, keeps you on your toes and c'mon the whole young/old Bruce is mind blowing. It has also created plenty of conversations. It is full of action, yes...but I got a big old theme out of this film. We live in loops. Not just sci-fi futuristic loops that involve gangsters but our own terrible loops. We learn them. We practice them. They become what we do. And just like the movie once you become a looper the only way out is escape or sure death. Yet we live like we have thirty years and bundles of silver to spend should we find our way to "freedom".
Are you in loops? Honestly, are you stuck? Are you pushing yourself to be better...do better? Were you taught these loops as a child and don't even realize how much they are a part of you? Awareness is the first step. It is crucial. After it comes practice, education, hard work and healing. But the first step out of the loop is about as scary as showing up on a tarp with a bag over your head and a time travel stop thirty years away with a gun pointed at you. Be honest with yourself...and others...and break the cycles. We can break them so that we are a little bit better than the ones who broke the cycle before us and not even as good as the ones who will come after. It is our duty to ourselves, our families and loved ones and the future generations of this world.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Autumnal Feast for Work Lunch
Fridays are a little extra special at work. People cook a whole meal or different people chip in a little something and make a hodge podge of crazy that always seems to work out just fine. This week was my turn. I felt inspired and challenged because I watch entirely too much Top Chef. I thought about my meal while driving home one day took my inspiration from the foliage. "Autumn"was what I would strive for. I hit the local farm stand for the sweetest apples and big bright butternut squash and found the perfect combo of some of my favorites and in "Do the New" style...something brand spankin' new. My menu was the following:
Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme
Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash, Goat Cheese and Pistachios
(lovely little dressing of orange juice, maple syrup, ginger and oil)
Curry Chicken Salad with Celery, Red Grapes and Scallions on a Wrap
Upside Down Apple Muffins
It took me a few days to prep different parts of it and a night of cooking that lasted until 11pm. I am still working on the dishes...
But it was worth every bit of work. We had a lovely lunch together. I was very happy to be able to give back to my crew. I have worked there for almost two years but it has been so much more than a job. It has been support, therapy, a new skill set, an exercise of old skills, friendship, tons of laughter, inspiration, an occasional kick in the pants and many other things that a girl needed in a rough patch of life. I am grateful and today I fed them as a thanks for all that they have fed to me.
I am already thinking of future meals...
Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme
Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash, Goat Cheese and Pistachios
(lovely little dressing of orange juice, maple syrup, ginger and oil)
Curry Chicken Salad with Celery, Red Grapes and Scallions on a Wrap
Upside Down Apple Muffins
It took me a few days to prep different parts of it and a night of cooking that lasted until 11pm. I am still working on the dishes...
But it was worth every bit of work. We had a lovely lunch together. I was very happy to be able to give back to my crew. I have worked there for almost two years but it has been so much more than a job. It has been support, therapy, a new skill set, an exercise of old skills, friendship, tons of laughter, inspiration, an occasional kick in the pants and many other things that a girl needed in a rough patch of life. I am grateful and today I fed them as a thanks for all that they have fed to me.
I am already thinking of future meals...
Panorama
My fancy little friend has a panorama feature for extra special and extra wide shots. I grabbed the kids in a spontaneous moment and headed to the lake by the Appalachian Trail not far from home. As they perused the water's edge for skimmers I tried the new feature. It is pretty cool and I can't wait to find some new things to capture on a big scale. Yep, I love my Iphone 5.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Christy's New Blog...errrrr, Ranch!
My cousin, Christy, is one of my heroes. She knows this. I tell her often. It's funny because growing up with some years and the entire country between us we weren't necessarily close. We would meet up at the occasional wedding/funeral/party and have wonderful visits but nothing more. The last few years and some social media have changed it all for the better. Why is she one of my heroes? Well, she is a strong positive role model for women everywhere. She went to school forever, traveled like mad, did the fancy corporate thang and then turned around and started to live out her real passions with a partner that rivals all mates. They are a force to be reckoned with. She teaches, blogs, cooks up a storm and takes us along on the journey with her. I keep waiting for a cooking show with her as the star but it seems she had even bigger plans. She bought a ranch. Yep, the real deal complete with yaks and everything. I often joke about finding a little piece of land in the middle of the country where I can raise my own chickens, pick fresh veggies and take things back to a simpler time...so I am pretty excited about the BIG plans that she has. Eventually, there will be a barn and breakfast, classes on cheese making, archery classes and all sorts of events. Now, I see a whole reality show based on this couple and their new adventures as they leave their condo and head for the ranch. I am working on my application to be an intern. I will include my expertise with training a puppy (their new pooch, Scout, is adorable), sales (especially if food is involved) and management. I will also offer my services as a server (fast food to fine dining experience), decorator and photographer (I'm no Adams but I can walk and click all of that land). I have a great love for animals so when the yaks need a-talkin-to...I'm the girl for the job! AND if she needs someone to sample the latest goat cheese I find my palate to be quite sensitive. ;)
Congratulations to Christy and Mike on their awesome new home!!! I loved what I have read and seen so far and can't wait to keep up with the adventure.
Congratulations to Christy and Mike on their awesome new home!!! I loved what I have read and seen so far and can't wait to keep up with the adventure.
Top Chef Kiddies
We had a day off together yesterday. We snuggled and caught up on some Runway and some new cereals and then the day unfolded...in the kitchen. Ethan has been showing some true signs of being interested in the culinary arts and I nurture anywhere that I can. (When Emily expressed an interest in being a heart surgeon I left that one to the Franklin Institute and its giant heart).
One thing led to another and we ended up spending quite a bit of time cooking. We made a brand new thing...Cream of Celery soup. Delicious. We used the immersion blender and sieve to make the texture just right. We made cremini mushroom quinoa which turned into a whole lesson in grains with Pop Pop. I made a very simple sauteed zucchini and onions dish that enabled both kids to learn some knife skills and safety measures. Egg salad was much easier with two assistants to crack and peel shells and cut eggs. There was even a lesson in never wasting food as Ethan was handed a rubber spatula to make the mayo jar nice and empty. We made a brand new unsweetened iced tea with blueberry. I even created a whole new baked fish recipe that the kids assembled themselves. We talked about ingredients and nutrition, too. He is truly interested and gets excited just as I do. I figure if he can start at six...we have plenty of time to get him ready for Top Chef 30. In the meantime, we'll have some pretty good meals to eat along the way!
One thing led to another and we ended up spending quite a bit of time cooking. We made a brand new thing...Cream of Celery soup. Delicious. We used the immersion blender and sieve to make the texture just right. We made cremini mushroom quinoa which turned into a whole lesson in grains with Pop Pop. I made a very simple sauteed zucchini and onions dish that enabled both kids to learn some knife skills and safety measures. Egg salad was much easier with two assistants to crack and peel shells and cut eggs. There was even a lesson in never wasting food as Ethan was handed a rubber spatula to make the mayo jar nice and empty. We made a brand new unsweetened iced tea with blueberry. I even created a whole new baked fish recipe that the kids assembled themselves. We talked about ingredients and nutrition, too. He is truly interested and gets excited just as I do. I figure if he can start at six...we have plenty of time to get him ready for Top Chef 30. In the meantime, we'll have some pretty good meals to eat along the way!
Iphone 5
Cell phones came out and I was the stubborn one who didn't need it. I resisted the idea of people being able to track me down where ever I might be. I gave in eventually as most did but I lingered for a bit first. My first phone was a fat little flip thing with simple number buttons. After beating the hell out of it for years it dropped in the street and cracked in half. My photos and info gone forever. The next phone was equally clunky and embarrassing and had bright red on it. It was touted as having "music capabilities that would put others to shame". It was a a piece of doo doo. Can I say doo doo in a blog post? It's just such a perfect word for it. I never got the fancy shmancy touch screen information centers of scientific-blow-my-mind numbers. I was the "mom with a phone". Wahhhh wa waaaaaaaaaa. Then the Blackberry came along. It was cute. I could text like a demon. I could hold pictures of my babies doing all sorts of things. I could even check a calendar. There was some tweeting and definitely some status updating. But that was pretty much it. I watched the cellular world from the nose bleed bleacher seats as they all ran around on the field with their Droids and Iphones. I had to sit at a desk with a busted old laptop and a hooked up monitor just to play a game. I use a clunky old nasty keyboard to type these posts. No high tech area here. I waited as the Iphones passed me by...number by number..."g" by "g"...etc. And then there was a new one AND it would coincide so nicely with the upgrade portion of a contract that has UNLIMITED data. Whaaaaaat?!? Yep, this girl has entered the present with a hot white little phone that I might just have to give a name to.
All these new things and I'm still not always a fan of change. It was hard to say goodbye to the known. For a minute or two. And then the fun began...
Facebook and Twitter are a whole new experience on this bad girl. I have loaded my games and can FINALLY play Scramble (which I have missed so) and Words with Friends. If you previously gave up on me give me another try...it will be way easier to play my word. Calendars will make my countless events manageable. Pinterest has my interest again. I am finding fun little things to play with like Flow and Instagram. I will also use this little friend for a wonderful thing...Weight Watchers. It's hard enough not eating but when you have to run upstairs to research how many points something has time and time again...you tend to not log it in. This not only makes it so simple but even has a barcode scanner that will pop in my numbers for me. I have yet to play with the pedometer so that will be fun as well. So many new tools and tricks in such a cute little and (20% lighter then the 4) phone. I still have much to get used to and a world of new things at my fingertips.
There are also two little children battling the time to play with it. They got a speech yesterday that went a little something like this...
"This phone is a tool to ASSIST me. (We clarified the definition of assist). It can help me stick to my weight plan, it can give me a recipe (which I used yesterday) for better meals, it can remind me of appointments. It is also there if we need to research something or find our way to a place. (Yes, they have fixed map issue already). It will be there should we need a panoramic photo or to text people we need to be in touch with. It will NOT be a distraction. So if you are sitting and waiting for something and you should have the free time to play a round of Scramble...that's fine...but you don't blow off what needs to be done or the people around you to spend time with...to play something and ignore those you love. It can assist you if you can play something instead of just sitting and waiting (for a doctor let's say) but should never block you from being present in your own life."
Yes, I do speak to my ten and six year old this way because I see what these gadgets have done to too many. I don't want to hold kids back and yes, they have each played around with it and can navigate pretty well already but I get saddened when I see it acting as a babysitter in moments that should be for bonding, growth and sharing. So there will be a strive for balance just as in all areas.
In the meantime, I will be the one learning. I will be the one obsessing over bubbles in my protective film. I am also on the search for the perfect case (this free ugly thing just isn't doing it). If you would like to help in my journey to practice...feel free to text a little bit more often or invite me to play the games but ironically you won't get me to actually talk on the phone any MORE than before. No fancy little phone will change that. Now, I must be on my way...Scramble is waiting!
All these new things and I'm still not always a fan of change. It was hard to say goodbye to the known. For a minute or two. And then the fun began...
Facebook and Twitter are a whole new experience on this bad girl. I have loaded my games and can FINALLY play Scramble (which I have missed so) and Words with Friends. If you previously gave up on me give me another try...it will be way easier to play my word. Calendars will make my countless events manageable. Pinterest has my interest again. I am finding fun little things to play with like Flow and Instagram. I will also use this little friend for a wonderful thing...Weight Watchers. It's hard enough not eating but when you have to run upstairs to research how many points something has time and time again...you tend to not log it in. This not only makes it so simple but even has a barcode scanner that will pop in my numbers for me. I have yet to play with the pedometer so that will be fun as well. So many new tools and tricks in such a cute little and (20% lighter then the 4) phone. I still have much to get used to and a world of new things at my fingertips.
There are also two little children battling the time to play with it. They got a speech yesterday that went a little something like this...
"This phone is a tool to ASSIST me. (We clarified the definition of assist). It can help me stick to my weight plan, it can give me a recipe (which I used yesterday) for better meals, it can remind me of appointments. It is also there if we need to research something or find our way to a place. (Yes, they have fixed map issue already). It will be there should we need a panoramic photo or to text people we need to be in touch with. It will NOT be a distraction. So if you are sitting and waiting for something and you should have the free time to play a round of Scramble...that's fine...but you don't blow off what needs to be done or the people around you to spend time with...to play something and ignore those you love. It can assist you if you can play something instead of just sitting and waiting (for a doctor let's say) but should never block you from being present in your own life."
Yes, I do speak to my ten and six year old this way because I see what these gadgets have done to too many. I don't want to hold kids back and yes, they have each played around with it and can navigate pretty well already but I get saddened when I see it acting as a babysitter in moments that should be for bonding, growth and sharing. So there will be a strive for balance just as in all areas.
In the meantime, I will be the one learning. I will be the one obsessing over bubbles in my protective film. I am also on the search for the perfect case (this free ugly thing just isn't doing it). If you would like to help in my journey to practice...feel free to text a little bit more often or invite me to play the games but ironically you won't get me to actually talk on the phone any MORE than before. No fancy little phone will change that. Now, I must be on my way...Scramble is waiting!
Great Wolf Lodge and the Busks
When I say I spent my afternoon at the Great Wolf Lodge...please, let me clarify. I wore no bathing suit. I carried no wand. I played no video games. In fact, I never left a chair in the lobby area. My dear, long lost friends were there for a visit with their children and we spent hours talking and catching up while the kids ran all over the place on their quests.
I can't believe I have missed out on seeing this beautiful building. It is gorgeous inside and out and confuses the brain for a second as you try to take in the concept of an indoor water park. This holds especially true when viewing the tubes that exit and re-enter the building.
Now, back to the visit. Our lives are super busy and they live pretty far. One of my forever besties...Nicole, commutes anywhere from two to five hours a day depending on the traffic. She gets home in time to say hi and goodnight to her little guys. She spends the weekends working her butt off to catch up on chores and family time. Chris works not one, but two jobs as well as most of the Daddy work after school. Needless to say, it isn't easy to get to see them so when they are going to be fifteen minutes away...you get pretty excited. We had almost two years worth of catching up to do. Good thing us ex-NY'ers can talk fast and process just as quickly. Combine that with the feeling that we never left each other's side for a minute let alone a year or two and we get right back into the swing of things quite quickly. It is scary to see how big all of our children are getting but refreshing to see how similar we parent them. The best part though was falling right back into giggles and like-minded thought processes. We met in '97 and clicked more quickly than anyone I had ever met. Fifteen years later we have moved, bought and sold houses, had four children, lost several parents and changed jobs. And fifteen years later with the hundreds of little changes within...we are just as tight as ever. Soul mates come in friendships and from the first day we showed up in the same shorts to go to the beach together we have always known that. Time doesn't change it ...and though location, work and real life might try to inhibit the visits...the heart is always right there.
Nicole and Chris we had a wonderful visit and can't wait to see you again!!!
I can't believe I have missed out on seeing this beautiful building. It is gorgeous inside and out and confuses the brain for a second as you try to take in the concept of an indoor water park. This holds especially true when viewing the tubes that exit and re-enter the building.
Now, back to the visit. Our lives are super busy and they live pretty far. One of my forever besties...Nicole, commutes anywhere from two to five hours a day depending on the traffic. She gets home in time to say hi and goodnight to her little guys. She spends the weekends working her butt off to catch up on chores and family time. Chris works not one, but two jobs as well as most of the Daddy work after school. Needless to say, it isn't easy to get to see them so when they are going to be fifteen minutes away...you get pretty excited. We had almost two years worth of catching up to do. Good thing us ex-NY'ers can talk fast and process just as quickly. Combine that with the feeling that we never left each other's side for a minute let alone a year or two and we get right back into the swing of things quite quickly. It is scary to see how big all of our children are getting but refreshing to see how similar we parent them. The best part though was falling right back into giggles and like-minded thought processes. We met in '97 and clicked more quickly than anyone I had ever met. Fifteen years later we have moved, bought and sold houses, had four children, lost several parents and changed jobs. And fifteen years later with the hundreds of little changes within...we are just as tight as ever. Soul mates come in friendships and from the first day we showed up in the same shorts to go to the beach together we have always known that. Time doesn't change it ...and though location, work and real life might try to inhibit the visits...the heart is always right there.
Nicole and Chris we had a wonderful visit and can't wait to see you again!!!
The Master
I should have known I was on a strange string of loving movies. They are expensive so when you penny pinch here or sell something there to get to see them...you hope to hell they are good. I have been supporting the local theater as much as possible and it hasn't let me down. But we all know that eventually things will come to a screeching halt. This movie was the one. I can say that I am relieved it is out of the way and a new string of good movies can begin but I'll have to get over the feeling it has evoked, first. Let me clarify that the acting was superb. Really, amazing. The music was awesome and different. Angles, camera tricks, you name it...really good. But it was hard to watch and left me unsettled. After questioning others who had seen it...it appears that we are all feeling the same odd void after viewing it. My question to the cinefiles was WHY???? Why did I have to feel like this at the end of a film? Well, it is a story about the destruction of the life that happens after a soldier is at war. The strange place that they are in after defending their country and seeing the hell that this planet can embody. They are lost. If the movie wanted to pass that sad, hurt, painful feeling on to us (as much as a movie can without showing an ounce of battle)...well, it succeeded. So though I never need to watch it again it did something no other movie has ever done. I will add it to the list of movies such as Clockwork Orange and Chuck & Buck and hope that the list stays short.
Mumford Morning
I can truly say that I am pretty happy about a bunch of the new music that is out right now. My ipod is full and makes my morning commute sweet as I really listen to the music and lyrics. We have all been waiting for Mumford & Sons to come out with a new one and they did not disappoint. It is one of those albums that gets better and better as you listen to it. Their appearance on SNL only helped matters. Need a little kick start on a dreary day? Pick the right song and get one!
Life After Top Chef
So, I have a bit of a crush on Fabio. If you follow this at all...then you are well aware. Here is yet another chance to see him in action. He cooks like a monster and yet has such an amazing approach to life. He keeps things simple and true in food, attitude and style...except for his abundant cologne and hair gel maybe. This show is highlighting the lives of four chefs after they have moved on from Top Chef. Richard is another favorite and it is hard to watch his struggles to maintain the balance of the hardest working man ever and family. Then there is Spike. A jerk and yet entertaining for some reason. I could do without the final chef but she only makes Fabio shine all the more. The more I learn about him the more I truly do appreciate all of his hard work, recipes and we can't forget about that smile. :)
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Wheel Class with JoAnn
If ever there was a time for a camera at this place...THIS was it. JoAnn was part teacher, part potter and part sit down comedian as she taught us the steps to throw. Every piece of the creation has a funny little anecdote to go along with it and if we weren't all concentrating so hard we would have been giggling the entire time. Way too busy thinking...we behaved. It was an informative first class but fun as well. I'd also like to mention that there are odd parts of my hands and arms somewhat sore. Since I ended up with three things that no longer look like balls of clay I can understand why. I can't, however, say WHAT they are so we'll call them vessels until some trimming helps give me a guide. The other students have a range of skills, ages and personalities but we're all there together to learn. Some people need to relax and feel the clay. Of course, I just imagined Patrick there behind me and I think I did alright. Now the fun begins....
Thanks, JoAnn for a great class!!!! It was a blast and I'm very excited!!!
Thanks, JoAnn for a great class!!!! It was a blast and I'm very excited!!!
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Chicken and Brocolli Rabe with Polenta
So, the challenge has always been how to feed all of my people. Picky Pop Pop doesn't like anything too ethnic. He also hates mayo, sour cream, cilantro and rosemary. There are also a list of things he makes a face at...just because. My mother had dietary issues, psychological issues and teeth issues. Children...well...they are children so that is a challenge in itself. I have worked my way around all of these challenges but most of the time they meant that I sacrificed what I wanted but more importantly what I needed. I am taking some new strides. I will make food that is good for us as well as tastes good but people will just have to deal. I was never the make five different foods person but I am taking it a step higher. (Don't get me wrong, there will also be pizza nights.)
That being said, I busted out the WW cookbook and made a most delicious meal. The chicken was on sale, the rabe is in season and therefore inexpensive and the polenta was a NEW THING to make. Everyone got the same dish of food and guess what? We all devoured it. It didn't taste like a diet dish and I felt great knowing that we were getting a healthy meal that would keep me well within my points for the day. Grab a cookbook, find a new ingredient, try a different technique...you have to do it three to five times a day for the rest of your life...enjoy it!!!
That being said, I busted out the WW cookbook and made a most delicious meal. The chicken was on sale, the rabe is in season and therefore inexpensive and the polenta was a NEW THING to make. Everyone got the same dish of food and guess what? We all devoured it. It didn't taste like a diet dish and I felt great knowing that we were getting a healthy meal that would keep me well within my points for the day. Grab a cookbook, find a new ingredient, try a different technique...you have to do it three to five times a day for the rest of your life...enjoy it!!!
Hike to Top of Mt. Minsi
Leigh Ann and I have set this hike for what seems like an eternity. Someone wasn't feeling well or was busy or it was too hot or too cold. This time we weren't taking the way out but the way up and boy were we challenged.
We picked a sunny, autumn day on a (finally open) weekend and headed for the trail. A drop fell on us but with a clear forecast and a blue sky we felt it was safe. Then the skies opened upon us. Heavier and heavier the rains got as we climbed slippery rocks and leaf covered paths to the pinnacle. There was a boy scout troop and many other hikers to play leapfrog with as we passed and fell behind them over and over. Did I mention we were doing this after a seven day fast on just liquid? So there we were soaked, chilly and starving (and very, very out of shape(me, not Leigh Ann)) climbing up a packed trail. There was thunder and a quick lesson on the scatter technique to be used should we see lightning. There were pauses to catch breath. Others, to rest fatigued calves. Some just to look at the view. There was even a help up and over one of the big rocks as Leigh Ann's hand was the fifth force to move me to the top. (Two arms and two legs weren't doing the job). There was much gabbing about my big trip to the psychic as well as all of the topics two girls can cover in a four hour trek up and down a mountain. At the top, the sunshine greeted me as a kind little reward for the work. The view was magnificent. The way down was still challenging with slippery slopes and major inclines full of salamanders and a chill from our soaked clothing but the mood stayed up the whole time. We were two chicks on a mission. This hike cleared my head, moved my body, nurtured my soul and completed a goal. It was a helluva workout, a heaping helping of therapy, a dash of adventure and a whole lot of laughter. I felt different as we parted ways on the walk home. I also got to use the sunglasses perched atop my head the entire time as if they symbolized the hope I always have that it will, indeed, get brighter. I walked with the sunshine peering through a cloud right at me with such brilliance I could barely see. It was a message of the symbolism of the hike that I was sure to accept. A week of cleansing and hike to follow made me feel stronger than I had in a long time. It will get brighter when the work is complete.
I have thanked her many times but I have to say once more... THANK YOU, Leigh Ann, for the push, the support and the friendship and the truly unique role that you have in my life.
We picked a sunny, autumn day on a (finally open) weekend and headed for the trail. A drop fell on us but with a clear forecast and a blue sky we felt it was safe. Then the skies opened upon us. Heavier and heavier the rains got as we climbed slippery rocks and leaf covered paths to the pinnacle. There was a boy scout troop and many other hikers to play leapfrog with as we passed and fell behind them over and over. Did I mention we were doing this after a seven day fast on just liquid? So there we were soaked, chilly and starving (and very, very out of shape(me, not Leigh Ann)) climbing up a packed trail. There was thunder and a quick lesson on the scatter technique to be used should we see lightning. There were pauses to catch breath. Others, to rest fatigued calves. Some just to look at the view. There was even a help up and over one of the big rocks as Leigh Ann's hand was the fifth force to move me to the top. (Two arms and two legs weren't doing the job). There was much gabbing about my big trip to the psychic as well as all of the topics two girls can cover in a four hour trek up and down a mountain. At the top, the sunshine greeted me as a kind little reward for the work. The view was magnificent. The way down was still challenging with slippery slopes and major inclines full of salamanders and a chill from our soaked clothing but the mood stayed up the whole time. We were two chicks on a mission. This hike cleared my head, moved my body, nurtured my soul and completed a goal. It was a helluva workout, a heaping helping of therapy, a dash of adventure and a whole lot of laughter. I felt different as we parted ways on the walk home. I also got to use the sunglasses perched atop my head the entire time as if they symbolized the hope I always have that it will, indeed, get brighter. I walked with the sunshine peering through a cloud right at me with such brilliance I could barely see. It was a message of the symbolism of the hike that I was sure to accept. A week of cleansing and hike to follow made me feel stronger than I had in a long time. It will get brighter when the work is complete.
I have thanked her many times but I have to say once more... THANK YOU, Leigh Ann, for the push, the support and the friendship and the truly unique role that you have in my life.
The Psychic
Part of the birthday that doesn't seem to end (which is just fine by me) was a trip out to Williamsport to visit a psychic I have heard so much about. I did lots of new things this particular day but this wins the blog post.
Two hours felt like thirty minutes and all I have thought about since is how to return to do it again. It was a magical experience...magical. This wasn't your gypsy-crystal ball-squinty-eyed-carnie...this was a well educated, well spoken and well recognized woman. Many of you might not believe and that is fine but when you spend minute after minute hearing things about your life with such accuracy you simply can't dispute the system. She said I was born to teach and help people heal, that I was a good salesperson and that I wasn't meant to write. This is nothing we don't all know. I am all of those things and if you have been following me than you know a writer...I am not. I tell my story with honesty, vulnerability and hope but seldom do I do it without many grammatical and other various writing issues. But I have taught since I was young enough to stand in front of stuffies who listened and I have healed the people in my life to the point of draining my own energies. She said I went off of the original path of creativity in some form of stage, music, art or dance to do what "had to be done" in my life. That seems true as well and maybe why I still appreciate those things so much even if only through being in the audience. There was a mention of a temper as well as the work being put in to control it. I am also opinionated, a leader and like to be the boss. Those details will also not come as a shock to anyone that knows me. I tend to fall into "management" positions everywhere I go. It sounds as if this year will be a tricky one with some "upheaval" as she put it but that I would be surrounded by many forms of support. It will also be a good year of growth and moving toward what I want from life since I am finding my way back to who I was supposed to be. She cleared up some very interesting things about my past and answered some lifelong questions. Part therapy, part magic and part surreal...this event was truly amazing. I believe it was meant to be at that moment in time and I am thankful to the universe, Ms. Smith and to Mary for the gift. Now, if you don't mind, I have to go work on my "warrior queen".
Two hours felt like thirty minutes and all I have thought about since is how to return to do it again. It was a magical experience...magical. This wasn't your gypsy-crystal ball-squinty-eyed-carnie...this was a well educated, well spoken and well recognized woman. Many of you might not believe and that is fine but when you spend minute after minute hearing things about your life with such accuracy you simply can't dispute the system. She said I was born to teach and help people heal, that I was a good salesperson and that I wasn't meant to write. This is nothing we don't all know. I am all of those things and if you have been following me than you know a writer...I am not. I tell my story with honesty, vulnerability and hope but seldom do I do it without many grammatical and other various writing issues. But I have taught since I was young enough to stand in front of stuffies who listened and I have healed the people in my life to the point of draining my own energies. She said I went off of the original path of creativity in some form of stage, music, art or dance to do what "had to be done" in my life. That seems true as well and maybe why I still appreciate those things so much even if only through being in the audience. There was a mention of a temper as well as the work being put in to control it. I am also opinionated, a leader and like to be the boss. Those details will also not come as a shock to anyone that knows me. I tend to fall into "management" positions everywhere I go. It sounds as if this year will be a tricky one with some "upheaval" as she put it but that I would be surrounded by many forms of support. It will also be a good year of growth and moving toward what I want from life since I am finding my way back to who I was supposed to be. She cleared up some very interesting things about my past and answered some lifelong questions. Part therapy, part magic and part surreal...this event was truly amazing. I believe it was meant to be at that moment in time and I am thankful to the universe, Ms. Smith and to Mary for the gift. Now, if you don't mind, I have to go work on my "warrior queen".
Sleepwalk With Me
I'm pretty proud of our little theater for having this film. It's the movie based on a true story that was a play as well as a book. You follow along on the journey of a bartender with a stale relationship who just wants to be a comedian. It is funny but has moments that break your heart. Then there are the sleepwalking scenes which range from goofy to life-threatening. If it teaches us anything it's to cut your losses sooner and move forward to what you hope to become. Oh, and that dreams can make you do some crazy things. It's only in a few theaters in this entire state so I was appreciative that it was only a few minutes away. Thank you, Pocono Community Theater for the chance to see it!!!
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