We went to Mass.
We handed out some candy. Not many came by really.
More for us!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Ponderings on a Friday Night
Some people in Hawaii are hot under the collar about these seventeen furlough days. Two down, fifteen to go. Who cares? Those who are in a pinch to find daycare, that's who. There are many of them on the islands. The furlough days make me angry for the folks actually teaching the kids. They take a cut in pay - "but at least they are still employed". That is kind of like having a functioning hand with your thumb missing - it works, but it fumbles. I'll bet many are trying to find alternative funds to cover their loans and personal expenses.
The furlough days don't bother me one bit, personally. At first they did, but then I home schooled long enough to know how to use this time. Unstructured learning is learning at its best. The task I have set before my children is to find three projects/subjects they want to learn about or learn more about. I need to know by Sunday night so that we can plan to tackle these things together. I don't care if it's combing the beach for glass . . . so long as everyone agrees to keep positive attitudes. I know the project we'll be working on together in mid-November: painting the living room. It will be a great learning experience as I hand down the knowledge my father handed down to me . . . laying the tape just so, using this brush, that stroke . . . even Chief will help. Practical learning in the common sense arena.
I finished reading in short amount of time the Duggar's book 20 and Counting. Their children learn how to change tires, change oil in vehicles, drive mowers years before they learn to drive a vehicle, cook, clean, and all the practical things I doubt many of us teach our kids today. I'm one who has taught very little domestics to my children. Shame on me! I'm robbing them of growth in responsibility and self management! So. Now, I'm not cramming all the domestic lessons into the furlough days, but those days have blessed us: we will use them wisely, but we will begin to use our daily days wisely as well.
Please keep Crickles in your prayers. I am taking him to the doctor in the morning. Nothing dangerous, but something quite personal is going on with him and he could use prayer. It's a recurring issue with doctors in Maryland never finding anything (which is good, but we're still inconclusive as to what exactly is going on). Mahalo!
Back from the clinic: his blood and urine are excellent; will proceed to ultrasound and another test with the pediatric clinics soon . . . nothing pressing at the moment . . . then the urologist for a diagnostic. So, maybe in two weeks we will have more answers as to why there is blood where there shouldn't be. Maybe there is an injury (which I doubt since it clears up for long periods and then recurs) or there is a developmental deformity not found when he was little and had his hypospadia fixed. There are questions, we'll get answers. Thanks for your prayers.
The furlough days don't bother me one bit, personally. At first they did, but then I home schooled long enough to know how to use this time. Unstructured learning is learning at its best. The task I have set before my children is to find three projects/subjects they want to learn about or learn more about. I need to know by Sunday night so that we can plan to tackle these things together. I don't care if it's combing the beach for glass . . . so long as everyone agrees to keep positive attitudes. I know the project we'll be working on together in mid-November: painting the living room. It will be a great learning experience as I hand down the knowledge my father handed down to me . . . laying the tape just so, using this brush, that stroke . . . even Chief will help. Practical learning in the common sense arena.
I finished reading in short amount of time the Duggar's book 20 and Counting. Their children learn how to change tires, change oil in vehicles, drive mowers years before they learn to drive a vehicle, cook, clean, and all the practical things I doubt many of us teach our kids today. I'm one who has taught very little domestics to my children. Shame on me! I'm robbing them of growth in responsibility and self management! So. Now, I'm not cramming all the domestic lessons into the furlough days, but those days have blessed us: we will use them wisely, but we will begin to use our daily days wisely as well.
Please keep Crickles in your prayers. I am taking him to the doctor in the morning. Nothing dangerous, but something quite personal is going on with him and he could use prayer. It's a recurring issue with doctors in Maryland never finding anything (which is good, but we're still inconclusive as to what exactly is going on). Mahalo!
Back from the clinic: his blood and urine are excellent; will proceed to ultrasound and another test with the pediatric clinics soon . . . nothing pressing at the moment . . . then the urologist for a diagnostic. So, maybe in two weeks we will have more answers as to why there is blood where there shouldn't be. Maybe there is an injury (which I doubt since it clears up for long periods and then recurs) or there is a developmental deformity not found when he was little and had his hypospadia fixed. There are questions, we'll get answers. Thanks for your prayers.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Feelings, Nothing More than Feelings . . .
Halloween sure stirs up a ruckus for some folk.
Be safe. Be nice. Have fun.
And, there should be an age limit. That's one of my two beefs with Halloween. After 6th grade (even if your punks are on the short and skinny, like mine, and could pass for much younger) stop sending them out. If they whine, host a small gathering for them and a few friends. My kids are done going out and I'm not throwing parties. They stay home and hand out the candy.
Beef 2: grabbers. It infuriates me when kids grab candy and it takes serious restraint on my tongue not to cuss when I correct them. So, I sound like a gibbering idiot: "Hey! You . . . . (Pause! Sarah, don't you dare say that!) . . . can't take candy!!! It's not polite!!!"
Teach your tots to say "trick or treat" and "thank you" and not to grab when offered the bowl. Most folks assume your kid will take ONE. After your kid hits 30 plus houses, the haul is pretty good. Be thankful, not greedy.
Happy haunting!
Be safe. Be nice. Have fun.
And, there should be an age limit. That's one of my two beefs with Halloween. After 6th grade (even if your punks are on the short and skinny, like mine, and could pass for much younger) stop sending them out. If they whine, host a small gathering for them and a few friends. My kids are done going out and I'm not throwing parties. They stay home and hand out the candy.
Beef 2: grabbers. It infuriates me when kids grab candy and it takes serious restraint on my tongue not to cuss when I correct them. So, I sound like a gibbering idiot: "Hey! You . . . . (Pause! Sarah, don't you dare say that!) . . . can't take candy!!! It's not polite!!!"
Teach your tots to say "trick or treat" and "thank you" and not to grab when offered the bowl. Most folks assume your kid will take ONE. After your kid hits 30 plus houses, the haul is pretty good. Be thankful, not greedy.
Happy haunting!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Time I Am In . . . What To Do With It?
Blast! I'm supposed to be at the MCCW thing this morning by 9am. It's Mass and a study that follows. But, I haven't been in weeks since the first one due to dentist appointments and illnesses . . . and now I feel so far removed from it, on my own part, that I don't think I'll go. This may come across as mean, but Mass if fine and dandy, but the study they are doing is weak. Well, for me. I am tired of dissecting myself to death in relation to anything or not. Is that strange?
So, I've been hiding in the books The Lord of the Rings lately. Once I close the last book (which I am reading now), I know I'll watch the films again . . . and then again with the commentary of the actors (the voice overs while you watch the film; the actors talk about what was going on etc. - it's really pretty cool). But, that's, like, 9 hours back to back, or more. Uff!
He's still my favourite character:
Here's a lovely award I was given by Allison. Thank you, lovely lady!
I bestow this award to Marcy and GrandmaK. Who, incidentally, awarded me this:
I have to answer these questions. Here goes nothing:
IF YOU COULD COME BACK AS AN ANIMAL, WHICH WOULD IT BE?
A bald eagle (if this question were geared toward an inanimate object, I would hands down choose a cricket bat)
SOMETHING YOU COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT
love
WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST IN ANOTHER PERSON
honesty
THE COLORS YOU TEND TO WEAR ARE
red . . . and blues
THREE WORDS THAT DEFINE YOU
Christian. Creative. Laughter.
A PLACE YOU WOULD TRAVEL TO
The United Kingdom (if that hasn't be said enough for God'sakes!)
YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE FROM A BOOK OR MOVIE
When Collin's friend asks him where in America he is going, he replies, "Wisconsin!" (Love Actually) **it's just the entire scene has me in tears, it's so funny!
SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO
act in a movie - supporting character
YOUR MAIN STRENGTH/FORTE
laughter man, seeing the funny in the whole of it.
You are also supposed to send this on to seven "young" blogs and seven blogs of wisdom. the nice thing about something like this is that it enables us to get to know one another just a little bit better and these 'tags, you're it' are fun and finally, if you have blogger's block, instead of walking around the block (get it...hee, hee???), you have something instant and easy to post.
So, I've been hiding in the books The Lord of the Rings lately. Once I close the last book (which I am reading now), I know I'll watch the films again . . . and then again with the commentary of the actors (the voice overs while you watch the film; the actors talk about what was going on etc. - it's really pretty cool). But, that's, like, 9 hours back to back, or more. Uff!
He's still my favourite character:
Here's a lovely award I was given by Allison. Thank you, lovely lady!
I bestow this award to Marcy and GrandmaK. Who, incidentally, awarded me this:
I have to answer these questions. Here goes nothing:IF YOU COULD COME BACK AS AN ANIMAL, WHICH WOULD IT BE?
A bald eagle (if this question were geared toward an inanimate object, I would hands down choose a cricket bat)
SOMETHING YOU COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT
love
WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST IN ANOTHER PERSON
honesty
THE COLORS YOU TEND TO WEAR ARE
red . . . and blues
THREE WORDS THAT DEFINE YOU
Christian. Creative. Laughter.
A PLACE YOU WOULD TRAVEL TO
The United Kingdom (if that hasn't be said enough for God'sakes!)
YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE FROM A BOOK OR MOVIE
When Collin's friend asks him where in America he is going, he replies, "Wisconsin!" (Love Actually) **it's just the entire scene has me in tears, it's so funny!
SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO
act in a movie - supporting character
YOUR MAIN STRENGTH/FORTE
laughter man, seeing the funny in the whole of it.
You are also supposed to send this on to seven "young" blogs and seven blogs of wisdom. the nice thing about something like this is that it enables us to get to know one another just a little bit better and these 'tags, you're it' are fun and finally, if you have blogger's block, instead of walking around the block (get it...hee, hee???), you have something instant and easy to post.
- I am too awful lazy to do this part. Most of the folks on my side bar have been at blogging a while and not too young in it, but if you are one who has been blogging less than two years, help yourself to this award, please!
- As far as wisdom is concerned, I don't link to dumdums, so if you fancy yourself as wise as I do, snap this up for yourself! Trust me, I don't waste my time on blogs I don't like. If I follow you or you're on my sidebar, it's good.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Random Dozen
Random Dozen:
1.Candy corn: Your thoughts ?
Yum! Very little of them, however.
2. Briefly, what was the first conversation you ever had with your spouse? (or best friend, if you're not married.) (Or someone significant, like your librarian.)
We were at a bar and we were talking about our families and just getting to know each other.3. Could you ever become a vegetarian?
Not 100%.
4. Have you ever dressed up your pet in a costume?
Not a costume, but a shirt and a jacket. She will eat them, given a chance.
Not a costume, but a shirt and a jacket. She will eat them, given a chance.
5. Name something about childhood that you miss (like Clark Bars, Tea berry Gum, Malibu Barbie, cracking fake eggs on people's heads with your fist and "It's the Great Pumpkin" airing only once a year).
Helping dad change the oil in the cars . . . he'd let us pump the breaks.
6. Have you ever won a trophy? If not, what do you deserve a trophy for?
I don't deserve anything, but I enjoy what I earn.
7. When do you think is the appropriate time to begin playing Christmas music each year?
Day after Thanksgiving.
What is your favorite board game?
It's more a card game, but I love Apples to Apples. Monopoly next.
9. How do you feel about surprises (receiving, not giving)?
I am indifferent. I'd like to know I should be showered and ready at a minimum. For example, when Chief returned after seven months gone TDY to Diego Garcia, he came home w/out telling me he was coming and I had not showered nor shaved and Teenie had a friend almost in the door to sleepover and here he comes, struttin' up the walk with yellow roses and I look like hell, not to mention smell like hell . . . that kind of surprise, no thank you. Anything else, give it a go.
I am indifferent. I'd like to know I should be showered and ready at a minimum. For example, when Chief returned after seven months gone TDY to Diego Garcia, he came home w/out telling me he was coming and I had not showered nor shaved and Teenie had a friend almost in the door to sleepover and here he comes, struttin' up the walk with yellow roses and I look like hell, not to mention smell like hell . . . that kind of surprise, no thank you. Anything else, give it a go.
10. Is it easy for you to say "I'm sorry?"
When wrong, it is easy saying "I'm sorry."
When wrong, it is easy saying "I'm sorry."
11. What is your favorite candle scent?
Ylang ylang or peppermint bark from Gold Canyon.
Ylang ylang or peppermint bark from Gold Canyon.
12. October is traditionally "open house" time in public schools. If you had a literal open house in your home (like a reception) what light snacks would you serve visitors and what would you show them (as in art projects, graded papers) that would uniquely represent you?
I would be putting out all kinds of baked goods and since I would be a complete wreck from getting ready and feeling like I'm not quite ready, I'm sure I'd seat everyone and just have loads of laughs . . . Once everyone is here I relax and we laugh. My living room/kitchen/dining room would say this about me: I read - a lot! I like casual style, but comfortable. I'm crafty and a bit on the organized chaos side. I love my dog. I think the most obvious reflection is all the Christian stuff. I really only desire Christ represent me anyway.
H/T: Yes, They Are All Mine (click link on my side bar)
TAG! You're It (Meme Thingy)
I was tagged by Nancy.
Six names you go by:
Sarah
Boo
Mum
Muther
Sarah Clarice (emphasis on the second name, sorta hissed)
Bag of bones stretched over a bunghole (thanks, Dad) *I used to be a skinny kid*
Three things you are wearing:
If I told you I was sitting here nekked, you wouldn't believe me, so:
jeans (too tight after dinner)
Honolulu cookie company white tee-shirt
flip-flops
Three things you want very badly right now:
r/t tickets to Seattle to visit family
a Faithful Catholic clergy and laity
a Guinness (and guess what, they're in the 'fridge)
Three things you did last night/yesterday:
made rosaries
sang the refrain to "Christ, Be Our Light" a few times - it's stuck for some reason
walked Holly (and picked up her internally processed lunch - yeah!)
Two things you ate today:
lasagna
wheat bread with tiny amount of creamy Jif on it.
Two people you last talked to on the phone:
Erika
Bev
Two things you are going to do tomorrow:
talk to a friend on the phone, I'm sure . . . I usually track down someone!!!
make another rosary or two, to be done
Your three favorite beverages:
Coffee
Tea
Guinness
Now it's my turn and I'm tagging Dawn and Kissyteen.
Enjoy!
Six names you go by:
Sarah
Boo
Mum
Muther
Sarah Clarice (emphasis on the second name, sorta hissed)
Bag of bones stretched over a bunghole (thanks, Dad) *I used to be a skinny kid*
Three things you are wearing:
If I told you I was sitting here nekked, you wouldn't believe me, so:
jeans (too tight after dinner)
Honolulu cookie company white tee-shirt
flip-flops
Three things you want very badly right now:
r/t tickets to Seattle to visit family
a Faithful Catholic clergy and laity
a Guinness (and guess what, they're in the 'fridge)
Three things you did last night/yesterday:
made rosaries
sang the refrain to "Christ, Be Our Light" a few times - it's stuck for some reason
walked Holly (and picked up her internally processed lunch - yeah!)
Two things you ate today:
lasagna
wheat bread with tiny amount of creamy Jif on it.
Two people you last talked to on the phone:
Erika
Bev
Two things you are going to do tomorrow:
talk to a friend on the phone, I'm sure . . . I usually track down someone!!!
make another rosary or two, to be done
Your three favorite beverages:
Coffee
Tea
Guinness
Now it's my turn and I'm tagging Dawn and Kissyteen.
Enjoy!
Monday, October 26, 2009
From My Inbox (E-mail) POLITICAL HUMOUR
Old Butch
John was in the fertilized egg business..
He had several hundred young layers (hens), called 'pullets,'
and ten roosters to fertilize the eggs.
He kept records, and any rooster not performing
went into the soup pot and was replaced.
This took a lot of time, so he bought some tiny bells
and attached them to his roosters.
Each bell had a different tone, so he could tell from a distance,
which rooster was performing.
Now, he could sit on the porch And fill out an efficiency report
by just listening to the bells.
John's favourite rooster, old Butch, was a very fine specimen,
but this morning he noticed old Butch's bell hadn't rung at all!
When he went to investigate, he saw the other roosters were busy chasing pullets,
bells-a-ringing, but the pullets, hearing the roosters coming, could run for cover.
To John's amazement, old Butch had his bell in his beak, so it couldn't ring.
He'd sneak up on a pullet, do his job and walk on to the next one.
John was so proud of old Butch, he entered him in the Renfrew County Fair
and he became an overnight sensation among the judges.
The result was the judges not only awarded old Butch the No Bell Piece Prize
but they also awarded him the Pulletsurprise as well.
Clearly old Butch was a politician in the making.
Who else but a politician could figure out
how to win two of the most highly coveted awards
on our planet by being the best at sneaking up on the populace
and screwing them when they weren't paying attention.
Vote carefully next year,
the bells are not always audible.
John was in the fertilized egg business..
He had several hundred young layers (hens), called 'pullets,'
and ten roosters to fertilize the eggs.
He kept records, and any rooster not performing
went into the soup pot and was replaced.
This took a lot of time, so he bought some tiny bells
and attached them to his roosters.
Each bell had a different tone, so he could tell from a distance,
which rooster was performing.
Now, he could sit on the porch And fill out an efficiency report
by just listening to the bells.
John's favourite rooster, old Butch, was a very fine specimen,
but this morning he noticed old Butch's bell hadn't rung at all!
When he went to investigate, he saw the other roosters were busy chasing pullets,
bells-a-ringing, but the pullets, hearing the roosters coming, could run for cover.
To John's amazement, old Butch had his bell in his beak, so it couldn't ring.
He'd sneak up on a pullet, do his job and walk on to the next one.
John was so proud of old Butch, he entered him in the Renfrew County Fair
and he became an overnight sensation among the judges.
The result was the judges not only awarded old Butch the No Bell Piece Prize
but they also awarded him the Pulletsurprise as well.
Clearly old Butch was a politician in the making.
Who else but a politician could figure out
how to win two of the most highly coveted awards
on our planet by being the best at sneaking up on the populace
and screwing them when they weren't paying attention.
Vote carefully next year,
the bells are not always audible.
Po'akahi (pho-ah-kah-he) **Monday**
What am I up to today?
I'm making rosaries. Remember my mum asked me to make seven of the same I made her last year? She bought the parts, I do the making. No big deal, except, it hurts.
It hurts to use my finger/thumb to bend the pin at a 90 degree angle once it's through the bead. I would use my pliers, but they slip and flip across the room, which is not good 'cos Holly will ingest anything she thinks might be food (in this case, blue caviar). But, I need not complain too much. I made two last night. Five to go. Alas! I discovered a wonky center piece . . . this will slow down production! I will have to wait about a week to get a new center piece delivered (with, ahem, a few other center pieces so I can make rosaries out of stuff I have sitting here . . . later giveaway, me thinks!). I also ordered presentation boxes 'cos mum's giving them to the members of the Marian group she belongs to.
I'm also starting to work on, for real this time, Christine's pay it forward. Everything is sitting out before me . . . and I can't wait to get started!
We have made plans on how to gift the families for Christmas this year. We have the large flat rate boxes (just two) and we will fill them with Hawaiian goodies for everyone to enjoy. We will ship to our parents and the siblings and nieces/nephew will have to enjoy over at the grandparents. Simple, affordable, enjoyable. Next year, we'll have to try and be more original again.
Moving to Hawaii has given us great gift ideas . . . but I wonder if the Aloha will wear thin (for them). Not us. We are having a blast! I mean, once they eat ONE Hershey's Kiss with macadamia they will long for them . . . and likely enjoy getting a bag or two every Christmas (for the next three years, at least). How do I know this? Well, because I love chocolate, of course! BUT, also because when I moved to the East Coast - away from anywhere near a See's Candies . . . getting that pound box at Christmas every year was like uncovering gold! We have a See's again, but I'd rather have the Kisses!
Well, I'm off to be productive! Have a fantastic day, y'all!
I'm making rosaries. Remember my mum asked me to make seven of the same I made her last year? She bought the parts, I do the making. No big deal, except, it hurts.
It hurts to use my finger/thumb to bend the pin at a 90 degree angle once it's through the bead. I would use my pliers, but they slip and flip across the room, which is not good 'cos Holly will ingest anything she thinks might be food (in this case, blue caviar). But, I need not complain too much. I made two last night. Five to go. Alas! I discovered a wonky center piece . . . this will slow down production! I will have to wait about a week to get a new center piece delivered (with, ahem, a few other center pieces so I can make rosaries out of stuff I have sitting here . . . later giveaway, me thinks!). I also ordered presentation boxes 'cos mum's giving them to the members of the Marian group she belongs to.
I'm also starting to work on, for real this time, Christine's pay it forward. Everything is sitting out before me . . . and I can't wait to get started!
We have made plans on how to gift the families for Christmas this year. We have the large flat rate boxes (just two) and we will fill them with Hawaiian goodies for everyone to enjoy. We will ship to our parents and the siblings and nieces/nephew will have to enjoy over at the grandparents. Simple, affordable, enjoyable. Next year, we'll have to try and be more original again.
Moving to Hawaii has given us great gift ideas . . . but I wonder if the Aloha will wear thin (for them). Not us. We are having a blast! I mean, once they eat ONE Hershey's Kiss with macadamia they will long for them . . . and likely enjoy getting a bag or two every Christmas (for the next three years, at least). How do I know this? Well, because I love chocolate, of course! BUT, also because when I moved to the East Coast - away from anywhere near a See's Candies . . . getting that pound box at Christmas every year was like uncovering gold! We have a See's again, but I'd rather have the Kisses!
Well, I'm off to be productive! Have a fantastic day, y'all!
Friday, October 23, 2009
Moving On . . .
This was an interesting perspective . . . Teenie has a knack with getting angles naturally, but I try to do the different angle thing and it still looks like I'm trying too hard to do it. Hmph! This is her picture.
The one I wanted to post with my new mattress announcement. Hey, Marcy, I look a lot less thin in this picture. Feel better soon now about that, y'all. My "can" is enormous!! Yike-o-la!
Got caught licking the only carpet in the house again, huh? Dumdum! Don't lick anything!
*Please, don't feel sorry for her. I call her Dumdum affectionately.*
This was on the camera . . . I think SB was taking pictures one day and so, I posed. I always look like a doofus when I pose. These are the burner covers I snapped up at the Commissary last week. They're festive . . . a bit early, but who cares?
Self-taken photo. SB in his new shirt. I think some of his friends in MD asked him for an updated pic via email. I sure as . . . I sure hope they don't put it on FB, 'cos most of his friends are on FB and we say "NO to FB" to our kids. They usually ask us a few times to try and wear us down. I give them that. They have to try. About the fifth time I remind them that it is disrespectful to continually ask the same question when given a firm answer more than once. Five is excessive. He did not ask again. I was happily surprised. He must be catching on to the parent obedience thing . . .
Gosh, he's handsome. He looks pretty good in his new shirt, too. Crickles got the exact same one the day before . . . SB never ever gets riled up about wanting anything (unless it is computer related) so I snuck out and got him one, too. ;)
Y'all have a blessed weekend. I pray Our Father keep you in His ever-watchful gaze and protection.
The one I wanted to post with my new mattress announcement. Hey, Marcy, I look a lot less thin in this picture. Feel better soon now about that, y'all. My "can" is enormous!! Yike-o-la!
Got caught licking the only carpet in the house again, huh? Dumdum! Don't lick anything!
*Please, don't feel sorry for her. I call her Dumdum affectionately.*
This was on the camera . . . I think SB was taking pictures one day and so, I posed. I always look like a doofus when I pose. These are the burner covers I snapped up at the Commissary last week. They're festive . . . a bit early, but who cares?
Self-taken photo. SB in his new shirt. I think some of his friends in MD asked him for an updated pic via email. I sure as . . . I sure hope they don't put it on FB, 'cos most of his friends are on FB and we say "NO to FB" to our kids. They usually ask us a few times to try and wear us down. I give them that. They have to try. About the fifth time I remind them that it is disrespectful to continually ask the same question when given a firm answer more than once. Five is excessive. He did not ask again. I was happily surprised. He must be catching on to the parent obedience thing . . .
Gosh, he's handsome. He looks pretty good in his new shirt, too. Crickles got the exact same one the day before . . . SB never ever gets riled up about wanting anything (unless it is computer related) so I snuck out and got him one, too. ;)Y'all have a blessed weekend. I pray Our Father keep you in His ever-watchful gaze and protection.
Defend the Church, Not Us . . . Check This Out Please
A Helping Hand: They've Gone and Done it!
I am not waging a war, here. Charity is KEY. My friend Dawn (follow link above, please) is having trouble getting through to "anonymous". So am I. Be charitable to all of us - we could both still be wrong, but we doubt it - this anonymous may be more than one parishioner of her chapel. Again, please help explain the teachings of the Church, keep feelings and judgmental comments to yourself. We are to educate one another and - I need your help, my humble, lovely, Faithful to the Magisterium, readers.
Comment on her blog, not here. Thanks!!!
**you can comment here if you like to leave me a wee "hello" and "bugger off, you git" if you don't like to get into these sorts of things, I understand. ;) **
I am not waging a war, here. Charity is KEY. My friend Dawn (follow link above, please) is having trouble getting through to "anonymous". So am I. Be charitable to all of us - we could both still be wrong, but we doubt it - this anonymous may be more than one parishioner of her chapel. Again, please help explain the teachings of the Church, keep feelings and judgmental comments to yourself. We are to educate one another and - I need your help, my humble, lovely, Faithful to the Magisterium, readers.
Comment on her blog, not here. Thanks!!!
**you can comment here if you like to leave me a wee "hello" and "bugger off, you git" if you don't like to get into these sorts of things, I understand. ;) **
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Ahhhh, Hello Comfort!
Here's what I'll be sleeping on for some years to come. I doubt a 30 year warranty makes much difference, but this is a nice bed! In thirty years I'll be 70. Won't that be lovely?
I had a busy day today - heck, the whole week has been errand-filled! It's good to be out and about, but I have so many crafty things to work on, it's silly! I need some time to SIT.
Teenie's math class was having a party this morning, so she brought in banana chocolate chip cookies (3 points) and simple sesame noodles (1 point). Points are for servings/batches that can feed twenty kids). The noodles made my house and my van smell so good, I came home and ate an English Muffin with strawberry jam so fast I hardly tasted it. So, after going out and buying SB two pair of jeans, a shirt he wanted, and a Shakespeare play (he asked if he could read more since reading Romeo and Juliet, which he really liked - I know, I'm at a near faint again typing this!), and some groceries, I came home and ate an early lunch: veggie burger sans bun and some broccoli with cheese.
The decaf coffee is wonderful. I thought I'd never go to the dark side, but to save my stomach from rupturing, I think it was a good compromise. I have noticed that the Pumpkin Spice coffee is light (flavour rating), but I'm not sure about it's acidity. I think - I don't know this for certain - that the stronger the coffee is, perhaps there's more acid involved? Anyone know? My tummy is doing so much better since cutting back and eating different as well.
Tomorrow: Hawaii's' public schools first furlough day. The kids will be home and I need to come up with an activity - and encourage SB to work hard on his project. He brought home one A and all the rest B's for first quarter - we could not be more pleased. I made sure to lay on honestly thick HONEST praise - he needs to hear it, see. Just like his mum - I need it, too. So much for humility, yeah?
Erika & Marcy - I plan on mailing out goodies tomorrow. So, be prepared! I hope none of it melts!! :) Let me know if it does or doesn't, please. Mahalo.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
On the Fence AGAIN
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/10/21/Special-Swine-Flu-Update.aspx
Mercola.com
I hope they (the link or cut and paste) work.
Anyway, a kind person emailed this to me and it put me on the fence again. I think the reason is that I believe our bodies are more resilient than we give them credit for, but then again, the shots are (or may be) full of crap you don't want in your body . . . too many unknowns . . . so, do you risk the shot and the unknown or risk the unknown of maybe getting sick? Our risk for getting sick these days is higher due to people who seem to have a hard time staying home when they feel like fooky. And, if you get the shot, you may get the flu anyway, who cares if it's H1N1 or just one of the seasonals? They all stink!
I think it's a tough call. I think I'd rather my kids get sick, if they will, than risk having them loaded up with additives in the shot (mercury and formaldehyde, for starters). They don't know what this stuff will do, only what it may do (infertility? brain damage? future cancer? harm the baby in the mum's tum?).
No shots. Just vigilance and prayer for our house.
I'm done. No shot is worth risking future impairment so the jockeys in "control" can have their day.
Mercola.com
I hope they (the link or cut and paste) work.
Anyway, a kind person emailed this to me and it put me on the fence again. I think the reason is that I believe our bodies are more resilient than we give them credit for, but then again, the shots are (or may be) full of crap you don't want in your body . . . too many unknowns . . . so, do you risk the shot and the unknown or risk the unknown of maybe getting sick? Our risk for getting sick these days is higher due to people who seem to have a hard time staying home when they feel like fooky. And, if you get the shot, you may get the flu anyway, who cares if it's H1N1 or just one of the seasonals? They all stink!
I think it's a tough call. I think I'd rather my kids get sick, if they will, than risk having them loaded up with additives in the shot (mercury and formaldehyde, for starters). They don't know what this stuff will do, only what it may do (infertility? brain damage? future cancer? harm the baby in the mum's tum?).
No shots. Just vigilance and prayer for our house.
I'm done. No shot is worth risking future impairment so the jockeys in "control" can have their day.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Managing Hope
I feel better today. Even my mood is more hopeful!
No caffeine yesterday left me suffering a hum-dinger of an headache, which I tried to sleep off all night, but finally, at 5:30am, I got up and took some Motrin with milk. Why did I try to kick it on my own? I have a sneaking suspicion that my stomach acid is in high gear and that is why I'm having the "tightness" and constant heartburn/burping. I was afraid of the coffee and the Motrin burning a hole in my stomach. Plus, when you worry like I do about stupid stuff, it doesn't help!
I'm about to go down and have breakfast: wheat toast with thin layer of peanut butter, a banana, and some tea. Lady Gray. I need a bit of an artificial boost so I can manage the petrol pump around 9am and then the drive to the Oreck store. Gosh, I really hope they have vacuum bags in stock!
I'm looking forward to cleaning. I tell you what, when I saw the inside of my vacuum (after having used it since moving here - and using it in the condo - without a bag) . . . uff da! YUCK! I was thinking I am really losing it.
I hope I get outta my 40's with my mind in tact. Some times I wonder. I hope I can manage that.
No caffeine yesterday left me suffering a hum-dinger of an headache, which I tried to sleep off all night, but finally, at 5:30am, I got up and took some Motrin with milk. Why did I try to kick it on my own? I have a sneaking suspicion that my stomach acid is in high gear and that is why I'm having the "tightness" and constant heartburn/burping. I was afraid of the coffee and the Motrin burning a hole in my stomach. Plus, when you worry like I do about stupid stuff, it doesn't help!
I'm about to go down and have breakfast: wheat toast with thin layer of peanut butter, a banana, and some tea. Lady Gray. I need a bit of an artificial boost so I can manage the petrol pump around 9am and then the drive to the Oreck store. Gosh, I really hope they have vacuum bags in stock!
I'm looking forward to cleaning. I tell you what, when I saw the inside of my vacuum (after having used it since moving here - and using it in the condo - without a bag) . . . uff da! YUCK! I was thinking I am really losing it.
I hope I get outta my 40's with my mind in tact. Some times I wonder. I hope I can manage that.
Pretty Cool
My youngest . . . the one who has, thank God Almighty, found a love for reading again . . . asked if he could read Our Lady of Kibeho.
Um, YES!!
Once he reads this book, I hope that he will entrust himself to Our Lady with his future vocation. You see, he is the one (as if I have to remind my faithful readers) who feels God is calling him to the priesthood.
Now, whether he does become a priest one day or not is betwixt him and God, but I pray that we only ever support him on his journey.
God is so good! I am just pleased he wants to read something about our Faith and Our Lady. He also asked if he could take it to school to read - YES!
Praise God!
Um, YES!!
Once he reads this book, I hope that he will entrust himself to Our Lady with his future vocation. You see, he is the one (as if I have to remind my faithful readers) who feels God is calling him to the priesthood.
Now, whether he does become a priest one day or not is betwixt him and God, but I pray that we only ever support him on his journey.
God is so good! I am just pleased he wants to read something about our Faith and Our Lady. He also asked if he could take it to school to read - YES!
Praise God!
Monday, October 19, 2009
A Bit Better But . . .
I'm feeling a bit better. My system is recovering, but I shan't be rushing off running errands just because I feel a little perkier. The older two who stayed home with me with similar symptoms are doing better as well.
Thank you for your prayers and well wishes. I so appreciate it.
Now, I am going to take a shower, which is necessary for cleanliness but also for that "feeling better" feeling. Confirmation that I am feeling better . . . and even if not altogether better, at least I'm clean.
I just watched Wife Swap where there was a wife/mom from WA State named Serena McDonald. Burlesque dancer. She went to my high school, in my class. Yeah. Strange doesn't cut it. I was in a divide of do I watch? Do I want to find out she's a horrible person? Well, she has some funny ideas about sex (that kids need to be educated and early) and she was selfish with her "dancing", but she seems to be a good person. I'm glad. I don't remember there ever being a hissy fit thrown, she was calm, and I don't believe she even cussed. Her boys are adorable and very well behaved. Phew.
My kids think I should try out for Wife Swap. Ah, no. No! Never. Never ever. We would end up getting some horrible woman in here, I just know it. And, well, I would likely get sent to some devil worshiper house or something awful like that. You know, most of those shows the families are complete opposites. Sorry, I like fairy tales and such, but I ain't talkin' to trees. And, I hate to hurt people and their feelings, but on something like that I can't compromise. AND, for some reason, I cannot understand when a woman goes into another woman's house and throws out stuff. It's not her call. Two weeks and she's throwing stuff out? I think making people angry is in no way going to make good changes - or lasting ones. And, for those of you who watch the show, don't you dislike it when the guy cries? I can't stand it. In the sense of: c'mon dude, it's not that hard. Of course, that's the military wife in me. I live hard. And, yet, I come across folks that have lived hard harder than me - by choice or circumstance.
I have the "I'll swim these murky waters and die trying than to not try." Buck up.
Serena's husband was 100% correct in breaking the rules of not selling his wife's dancing stuff.
What "reality" shows do you watch? Or did you used to watch?
Thank you for your prayers and well wishes. I so appreciate it.
Now, I am going to take a shower, which is necessary for cleanliness but also for that "feeling better" feeling. Confirmation that I am feeling better . . . and even if not altogether better, at least I'm clean.
I just watched Wife Swap where there was a wife/mom from WA State named Serena McDonald. Burlesque dancer. She went to my high school, in my class. Yeah. Strange doesn't cut it. I was in a divide of do I watch? Do I want to find out she's a horrible person? Well, she has some funny ideas about sex (that kids need to be educated and early) and she was selfish with her "dancing", but she seems to be a good person. I'm glad. I don't remember there ever being a hissy fit thrown, she was calm, and I don't believe she even cussed. Her boys are adorable and very well behaved. Phew.
My kids think I should try out for Wife Swap. Ah, no. No! Never. Never ever. We would end up getting some horrible woman in here, I just know it. And, well, I would likely get sent to some devil worshiper house or something awful like that. You know, most of those shows the families are complete opposites. Sorry, I like fairy tales and such, but I ain't talkin' to trees. And, I hate to hurt people and their feelings, but on something like that I can't compromise. AND, for some reason, I cannot understand when a woman goes into another woman's house and throws out stuff. It's not her call. Two weeks and she's throwing stuff out? I think making people angry is in no way going to make good changes - or lasting ones. And, for those of you who watch the show, don't you dislike it when the guy cries? I can't stand it. In the sense of: c'mon dude, it's not that hard. Of course, that's the military wife in me. I live hard. And, yet, I come across folks that have lived hard harder than me - by choice or circumstance.
I have the "I'll swim these murky waters and die trying than to not try." Buck up.
Serena's husband was 100% correct in breaking the rules of not selling his wife's dancing stuff.
What "reality" shows do you watch? Or did you used to watch?
Freaked Out A Bit
I'm downstairs on the lap top and it's 3:39AM . . . been up for a while. Thinking about my health. I felt slightly nauseated, still do on and off; had to get up for the bathroom at 9:30, 10:30 and again before coming down here. I keep running over symptoms of flu . . . scaring myself that it could be my heart.
I have looked online for heart attack symptoms. I really don't have shortness of breath and I haven't had. I haven't had any shooting pains or any sustained pains in either arm or my neck or shoulders. I haven't been dizzy or cold sweating.
I do have a heaviness in my chest, right where my sternum is, and, plenty of heartburn. I have a lot of burping. The cough I had from the cold was never "horrible" but never went away completely. I have a lingering cough of "hem-hem" to loosen phlegm (there's never a lot; it's always clear).
I sort of have the feeling I'm going to puke, but I fight that sort of thing from happening as long as I can. In the past, when I have puked, it pretty much comes so hard I get red spots all over my face and neck. It's not pretty.
They say if you think it's your heart, go to the ER. There's no pain, just that one symptom of something tight in my chest, yet my breathing and heart rate seem normal. Otherwise I feel pretty good.
My mind and all the thinking it gets up to sends me into tailspins. Everyone else is asleep and I know if I woke Chief he would just ask me, "Do you want me to take you up to Tripler?" If I felt that way, I would wake him up. So, I don't wake him up.
I'm going to call and make a doctor's appointment, though, and we'll go from there.
In the mean time, I'm wide awake and desiring to sleep . . . but I remember I had coffee in the late afternoon . . . which is likely the root of my problem to begin with.
UPDATE: I think I have a stomach bug. I feel wretched. Had a banana and been drinking water. The Oreck vacuum bags will have to wait, among the other things. But, it is really all small trifles. I'll get well, then think about going out to tackle things that can wait. In the mean time, I reckon I'll make myself comfy on the sofa and watch telly, begin reading Two Towers and get lost in getting well. Teenie is ready for school, but complaining of a sour stomach. Aha! There's some bug about! P'raps I won't be home alone, which makes me feel better, but then, I feel terrible she's not up to snuff.
I have looked online for heart attack symptoms. I really don't have shortness of breath and I haven't had. I haven't had any shooting pains or any sustained pains in either arm or my neck or shoulders. I haven't been dizzy or cold sweating.
I do have a heaviness in my chest, right where my sternum is, and, plenty of heartburn. I have a lot of burping. The cough I had from the cold was never "horrible" but never went away completely. I have a lingering cough of "hem-hem" to loosen phlegm (there's never a lot; it's always clear).
I sort of have the feeling I'm going to puke, but I fight that sort of thing from happening as long as I can. In the past, when I have puked, it pretty much comes so hard I get red spots all over my face and neck. It's not pretty.
They say if you think it's your heart, go to the ER. There's no pain, just that one symptom of something tight in my chest, yet my breathing and heart rate seem normal. Otherwise I feel pretty good.
My mind and all the thinking it gets up to sends me into tailspins. Everyone else is asleep and I know if I woke Chief he would just ask me, "Do you want me to take you up to Tripler?" If I felt that way, I would wake him up. So, I don't wake him up.
I'm going to call and make a doctor's appointment, though, and we'll go from there.
In the mean time, I'm wide awake and desiring to sleep . . . but I remember I had coffee in the late afternoon . . . which is likely the root of my problem to begin with.
UPDATE: I think I have a stomach bug. I feel wretched. Had a banana and been drinking water. The Oreck vacuum bags will have to wait, among the other things. But, it is really all small trifles. I'll get well, then think about going out to tackle things that can wait. In the mean time, I reckon I'll make myself comfy on the sofa and watch telly, begin reading Two Towers and get lost in getting well. Teenie is ready for school, but complaining of a sour stomach. Aha! There's some bug about! P'raps I won't be home alone, which makes me feel better, but then, I feel terrible she's not up to snuff.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
KISSY WINNERS ARE:
Marcy - Blessings Each Day!
And,
Erika - Twins and a Finn!
Congratulations!!!
*Marcy, please email me at Sarahs.Journey(at)yahoo.com with your mailing address. Mahalo!
I will mail out the chocolates as soon as I can. I need to buy vacuum bags for my Oreck, which, as it so happens, I have been using w/out a bag since we got it at the Condo in our express shipment. Can I just say DAMN! It was a mess! A mess, I tell you!! I still need to suck more dirt out with the canister vac . . . but that will fill the last canister vac bag I have. Until tomorrow. I hope to God that the Oreck store has the bags! For both vacuums!
I am a doofus!!
And,
Erika - Twins and a Finn!
Congratulations!!!
*Marcy, please email me at Sarahs.Journey(at)yahoo.com with your mailing address. Mahalo!
I will mail out the chocolates as soon as I can. I need to buy vacuum bags for my Oreck, which, as it so happens, I have been using w/out a bag since we got it at the Condo in our express shipment. Can I just say DAMN! It was a mess! A mess, I tell you!! I still need to suck more dirt out with the canister vac . . . but that will fill the last canister vac bag I have. Until tomorrow. I hope to God that the Oreck store has the bags! For both vacuums!
I am a doofus!!
Sunday Musings
I won this book over at The Musings of A Mom. I've begun reading it slowly - in the evenings. So far, I love it. I read her Left to Tell and, wow. There's nothing like a wonderful, God-centered survival story! I'm glad to meet Our Lady of Kibeho's acquaintance. Thanks, Therese!
This book tells the story of each visionary and the joy Mary brings to this country (Rwanda) - and, the world. A must read for those longing to get closer to Mary; closer to Jesus through Mary; or those who are intrigued by apparitions.
What I did this weekend:
This book tells the story of each visionary and the joy Mary brings to this country (Rwanda) - and, the world. A must read for those longing to get closer to Mary; closer to Jesus through Mary; or those who are intrigued by apparitions.
What I did this weekend:
- Sat on my bum
- ate
- read
- cross-stitched
- bought a mattress set w/ the Chief (and got a cute stuffed sheep - her number is 3/8; how did the store know I stink at fractions?); Holly thought 3/8's was for her so 3/8's is on my pillow safe and sound.
- PRAYED (for the world, special intentions known to my blogging friends, my kids, vocations to the priesthood and life of a religious, for my husband and so on)
- went to Mass
Friday, October 16, 2009
Asian Carb Heaven
Simple Sesame Noodles
12 ounces thin noodles, cooked and drained (angel hair, thin spaghetti, or Asian style)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 to 3 tablespoons pure sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon hot chile oil (more to taste) *a note here: this is plenty to give it a mild "kick" but if you want a wild arsed kick, add more. Since I am loathe to cry like a baby whilst I eat, I reckon this is the right amount.
4 to 5 tablespoons canola oil *another note: I forgot to add this? I didn't and it still rocked!!
2 tablespoons hot water
3 to 4 green onions, sliced thin
Whisk all ingredients (except noodles and green onions) together in a bowl. Taste and adjust ingredients as needed.
Pour sauce over warm noodles and toss to coat.
Sprinkle with green onions and toss.
Serve in a bowl with chopsticks. Yummy!
** PLEASE NOTE: This recipe is from The Pioneer Woman. To see more of her fabulous blog and check out her recipes, click on The Pioneer Woman. **
Let's just say, they are easy, mouth-watering delicious, to make. Just enough spice to make you eat more. I smelled the sauce while the noodles were boiling . . . and just about fell over, the smell was so powerfully wonderful. Teenie has asked me to make them for her class next Thursday (they are having a "party" in their math class). Well, over half her class is Asian of some persuasion so I'm really hoping that this recipe satisfies! I LOVE IT!!
I have pre-ordered the Pioneer Woman Cooks cookbook, which is being released October 27.
Getting Things Done
I posted out the box of winnings to Barb; and, I posted out a birthday present box to my dear friend, Dawn (quite early, but you know, I have to get it outta here).
After I went to the post office, I went grocery shopping. The Hershey's Macadamia Kisses are cheaper there. $2.67 (change part???) a normal size bag. The trick - and I mean this in all seriousness - is getting them to the winners (announced this Sunday) not terribly melted. The two who win will have to let me know. And Barb, please let me know how yours arrived? I did tell the post office there were chocolates inside (I doubt they would melt past the bag they are sold in, but they are inside a plastic grocery bag, too). It's colder where you're at as well. I think they'll do fine. But, y'all let me know.
I think there's a few of you who would throw any melted bits into the freezer and eat them later. I would!
The groceries are put away and I'm thinking about what to make for dinner tonight. I think meatloaf and scalloped potatoes and broccoli. I have enough fresh stuff to cook good stuff for about three to four dinners. IF I'm going to lick my unhealthy eating habits, I have to shop every few days for fresh ingredients. That's fine, though, 'cos I can grab the always-needed milk then, too.
I will no longer buy soda. I started to get into a small habit for a while, but I figure all that sugar is making me feel icky. And, no more of those delicious "Maui Chips". Their crunchy goodness is adding padded fatness to my already bungled behind.
I'm adding more salads. Very very very little dressing (vinaigrette's only). And, I'm adding exercise. Long walks in the evening. Mornings added when I haven't morning errands to run. I can't run errands too well in the afternoon since the steering wheel gets hotter than Hades. I got one of those dashboard reflector things, I just forget to always use it.
My children (not to mention Chief) will be so pleased to come home today to a fully stocked 'fridge and pantry.
Did I mention the Halloween candy?
No, I didn't, did I?
I'm staying out.of.it.
Just pray for me. I don't need it. I want it. There's the rub.
After I went to the post office, I went grocery shopping. The Hershey's Macadamia Kisses are cheaper there. $2.67 (change part???) a normal size bag. The trick - and I mean this in all seriousness - is getting them to the winners (announced this Sunday) not terribly melted. The two who win will have to let me know. And Barb, please let me know how yours arrived? I did tell the post office there were chocolates inside (I doubt they would melt past the bag they are sold in, but they are inside a plastic grocery bag, too). It's colder where you're at as well. I think they'll do fine. But, y'all let me know.
I think there's a few of you who would throw any melted bits into the freezer and eat them later. I would!
The groceries are put away and I'm thinking about what to make for dinner tonight. I think meatloaf and scalloped potatoes and broccoli. I have enough fresh stuff to cook good stuff for about three to four dinners. IF I'm going to lick my unhealthy eating habits, I have to shop every few days for fresh ingredients. That's fine, though, 'cos I can grab the always-needed milk then, too.
I will no longer buy soda. I started to get into a small habit for a while, but I figure all that sugar is making me feel icky. And, no more of those delicious "Maui Chips". Their crunchy goodness is adding padded fatness to my already bungled behind.
I'm adding more salads. Very very very little dressing (vinaigrette's only). And, I'm adding exercise. Long walks in the evening. Mornings added when I haven't morning errands to run. I can't run errands too well in the afternoon since the steering wheel gets hotter than Hades. I got one of those dashboard reflector things, I just forget to always use it.
My children (not to mention Chief) will be so pleased to come home today to a fully stocked 'fridge and pantry.
Did I mention the Halloween candy?
No, I didn't, did I?
I'm staying out.of.it.
Just pray for me. I don't need it. I want it. There's the rub.
Hmmmmm
Do you ever have a day when you have errands to run - I mean, the grocery shopping really cannot wait one more day - and you don't feel like moving off the couch?
It's just so . . . BORING . . . to grocery shop.
God help me get the up and go that I need to do this today.
I am definitely making my way to the post office today, Barb and Dawn.
It's just so . . . BORING . . . to grocery shop.
God help me get the up and go that I need to do this today.
I am definitely making my way to the post office today, Barb and Dawn.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Another Give Away - Cos I'm A Macadamiac!!
Some stores here will sell these over the net for about $4.70 something. I can buy them at the commissary a bit cheaper. Those stores will charge you expedited prices - in other words: I could be sympathetic to those living without on the mainland or other countries. That is why, if you leave a comment to this post, I will draw two names to send a bag of these things to . . . out of the chocolatey goodness of my soul.
Two winners announced Sunday, 18 October! ALL (past winners of something on my blog included) are welcome to join in the Aloha of this 'contest'.
And the Winner Is . . .
BARB, SFO!!! Congratulations!! Here's what I need from you: send me an e-mail at Sarahs.Journey(at)yahoo.com with your address and your tee-shirt size (for the dirt shirt shirt from an HI company; if you would rather not have the dirt one of a rust colour they have a blue one I can't remember what they use to dye it or a green one dyed from money, supposedly, let me know). I will purchase the shirt and the Hershey's Macadamia Nut Kisses after I get this information and post your packet off to you with the goodies in the picture. Plus, I added two extra things I came across recently. CONGRATULATIONS!!
And, in other news, my observations of yesterday:
I saw the U.S.S. Missouri being tugged away from port. No more tour buses zooming past my house all day every day . . . until, they say, January.
I was following a truck with Florida plates back over to the island and they had a pant leg with a rubber foot attached hanging out the tailgate. Humour me.
There's a carrier docked nearby so that you can maybe get distracted and crash into the side of the bridge in either direction. It's amazing to look at. Okay, I trucked my fat arse over to the edge of the island to snap a pic . . . I walked. I sweated. All.for.your.entertainment. It's the U.S.S. Ronald Reagan.
My parents and mother-in-law sent me some dosh, so, combined, I was able to get this for one heck of a deal. $111.and chunk change for all of it. Yeah!
I remember trying to figure out if it is better to buy one of these with the cost of the insert cups . . . . A over at Totuus Tuus said her husband did the math and these machines and cups are more economical. Okay, so if in the end we find out they are not, who cares? This stuff is cool! I was thinking hard about what to do with this extra padding of cash. I know I want a shelf in my kitchen, but dern it, I can live w/out it a bit longer. I also went back and forth about getting the entire set of daily meditation books (Conversation With God - the Catholic ones, that follow the liturgical year; not the hippie whatever it is book). But, I've wanted this gizmo for a long time. I knew Target had the littlest one for $89. I thought, I'll check the NEX (Navy Exchange) first. You never know, some times I get a great deal there - most of the time it seems like it. Anyway, they had the single little one, because I saw a sailor with one under his arm . . . it may well have been the last one since I couldn't see one in the coffee maker aisle. So, I check out the next two "upper" models. The Elite is $114 on sale for $98 or something like that. I'm thinking, "heck yeah!" I also tuck the pumpkin spice (thanks A for the picture on your blog and making me want it, too) pack for $8.99 and the reusable filter for $12.99. So.
At the register, I get rung up and my total is $31.90. Although the lady never thanked me for my honesty, I did point out that the machine did not scan. When she did scan it, it was $86 - much cheaper than it should have been. (I got myself one of the same thing I'm adding to the winner's packet, for those who crunched the numbers above and didn't get $31.90).
SO, I may not go to hell for getting a free coffee machine, but I may go to hell for not saying anything about the sale price being less than the tag on the shelf.
Some times ya just gotta shut yer trap.
Forgive me, Lord, but you know what a pain it is to get the NEX employees to do a price check when there's a line of mother's with tots on their hips with or w/out a full cart beside them. We all just want to get our loot and go home.
I brewed a Pumpkin Spice cuppa straight away. Yum.
My chocolate cake with frosting couldn't be had fast enough. My girl made me a cute cute cute card!! And, I got a card from the kids and one from hubby. What am I getting from the kids? An orchid we'll pick out together this week. And, Chief's getting me a new mattress set! Now, I know it's not romantic, but . . . well, I'm just gonna shush about how it can be construed as so. Ahem.
And, in other news, my observations of yesterday:
I saw the U.S.S. Missouri being tugged away from port. No more tour buses zooming past my house all day every day . . . until, they say, January.
I was following a truck with Florida plates back over to the island and they had a pant leg with a rubber foot attached hanging out the tailgate. Humour me.
There's a carrier docked nearby so that you can maybe get distracted and crash into the side of the bridge in either direction. It's amazing to look at. Okay, I trucked my fat arse over to the edge of the island to snap a pic . . . I walked. I sweated. All.for.your.entertainment. It's the U.S.S. Ronald Reagan.
My parents and mother-in-law sent me some dosh, so, combined, I was able to get this for one heck of a deal. $111.and chunk change for all of it. Yeah!
I remember trying to figure out if it is better to buy one of these with the cost of the insert cups . . . . A over at Totuus Tuus said her husband did the math and these machines and cups are more economical. Okay, so if in the end we find out they are not, who cares? This stuff is cool! I was thinking hard about what to do with this extra padding of cash. I know I want a shelf in my kitchen, but dern it, I can live w/out it a bit longer. I also went back and forth about getting the entire set of daily meditation books (Conversation With God - the Catholic ones, that follow the liturgical year; not the hippie whatever it is book). But, I've wanted this gizmo for a long time. I knew Target had the littlest one for $89. I thought, I'll check the NEX (Navy Exchange) first. You never know, some times I get a great deal there - most of the time it seems like it. Anyway, they had the single little one, because I saw a sailor with one under his arm . . . it may well have been the last one since I couldn't see one in the coffee maker aisle. So, I check out the next two "upper" models. The Elite is $114 on sale for $98 or something like that. I'm thinking, "heck yeah!" I also tuck the pumpkin spice (thanks A for the picture on your blog and making me want it, too) pack for $8.99 and the reusable filter for $12.99. So.
At the register, I get rung up and my total is $31.90. Although the lady never thanked me for my honesty, I did point out that the machine did not scan. When she did scan it, it was $86 - much cheaper than it should have been. (I got myself one of the same thing I'm adding to the winner's packet, for those who crunched the numbers above and didn't get $31.90).
SO, I may not go to hell for getting a free coffee machine, but I may go to hell for not saying anything about the sale price being less than the tag on the shelf.
Some times ya just gotta shut yer trap.
Forgive me, Lord, but you know what a pain it is to get the NEX employees to do a price check when there's a line of mother's with tots on their hips with or w/out a full cart beside them. We all just want to get our loot and go home.
I brewed a Pumpkin Spice cuppa straight away. Yum.
My chocolate cake with frosting couldn't be had fast enough. My girl made me a cute cute cute card!! And, I got a card from the kids and one from hubby. What am I getting from the kids? An orchid we'll pick out together this week. And, Chief's getting me a new mattress set! Now, I know it's not romantic, but . . . well, I'm just gonna shush about how it can be construed as so. Ahem.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Happy Birthday To Me
So, we are in the middle of the month of the Rosary, breast cancer awareness, and my one year blogging anniversary . . . AND I have to turn up 40. How bloody exciting!
I feel pretty fantastic, thank you. I have no idea what today will bring me (other than one day into my 40th year, which, is pretty cool, actually). No plans. NO idea what, if anything, my kids or husband have planned. I told the kids that a nice orchid w/ instructions how to keep it alive (ahem) would be perfectly nice (and not going to break the bank). I'll be baking my own cake 'cos I like to, really. I make a mean chocolate fudge frosting. But, I'll take the day any way it comes, because I am a big kid on the inside. I'll watch Emma, that much I know.
So, I'm going to give away this stuff to celebrate. If you want to win all this stuff in the picture below, leave me a comment and see where luck may take you! Not in the picture are these items: a 'red dirt shirt' (I can't buy one not knowing the winner's size) and a bag of Hershey's Macadamia Nut kisses (I will buy them FRESH).
=items are: two books, forkchops (just 'cos they made me cackle like a deranged idiot in the kitchen store), a flip flop foot for your wine glass, the meaning of Aloha card, and a magnet of a wood fish (humuhumunukunukuapua'a) - sorry if I misspelled it, I'm knackered.=
WAIT!!!
Let's make this more interesting. I know you all want the Hershey's kisses. Just leaving me your name is kinda boring for me. Leave me a comment that tells me about your least or favourite birthday and why. If you do not do this simple thing (for giggles on my part), your name won't be put in the drawing. It's that give and take thing see. Okay. Have fun!
I wish you all well. I'm off to blow out candles before my cake explodes!
*winner announced tomorrow on the Feast of St. Teresa of Avila*
btw, just a film plug for families wanting good, clean films for 6th-12th grades/adults: at Target I found a Haley Mills film called "Trouble With Angels" for $5. DVD. In the kids stuff. BARGAIN and a brilliant film!
I feel pretty fantastic, thank you. I have no idea what today will bring me (other than one day into my 40th year, which, is pretty cool, actually). No plans. NO idea what, if anything, my kids or husband have planned. I told the kids that a nice orchid w/ instructions how to keep it alive (ahem) would be perfectly nice (and not going to break the bank). I'll be baking my own cake 'cos I like to, really. I make a mean chocolate fudge frosting. But, I'll take the day any way it comes, because I am a big kid on the inside. I'll watch Emma, that much I know.
So, I'm going to give away this stuff to celebrate. If you want to win all this stuff in the picture below, leave me a comment and see where luck may take you! Not in the picture are these items: a 'red dirt shirt' (I can't buy one not knowing the winner's size) and a bag of Hershey's Macadamia Nut kisses (I will buy them FRESH).
=items are: two books, forkchops (just 'cos they made me cackle like a deranged idiot in the kitchen store), a flip flop foot for your wine glass, the meaning of Aloha card, and a magnet of a wood fish (humuhumunukunukuapua'a) - sorry if I misspelled it, I'm knackered.=WAIT!!!
Let's make this more interesting. I know you all want the Hershey's kisses. Just leaving me your name is kinda boring for me. Leave me a comment that tells me about your least or favourite birthday and why. If you do not do this simple thing (for giggles on my part), your name won't be put in the drawing. It's that give and take thing see. Okay. Have fun!
I wish you all well. I'm off to blow out candles before my cake explodes!
*winner announced tomorrow on the Feast of St. Teresa of Avila*
btw, just a film plug for families wanting good, clean films for 6th-12th grades/adults: at Target I found a Haley Mills film called "Trouble With Angels" for $5. DVD. In the kids stuff. BARGAIN and a brilliant film!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
This Is the Last Day
This is the last day on earth that I will be able to say to the age old question, "How old are you?" and my reply being, "39."
Tonight, Pacific Standard Time, I will be posting my ROCKTOBER GIVE-AWAY post. You'll have 24 hours to comment . . . to win whatever I post about . . . winner announced some time on the 15th. I will mail to the winner this week . . . providing I get the address in time to do so . . . and I will mail anywhere in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, Canada . . . wherever. World-wide. And, if you live in a E.U. country, well, I will try to mail it in a manner you do not have to get it from the post and pay out a fee/fine for having a foreign packet. (my SIL sent a lovely parcel to Ireland and the gent had to cough up a exorbitant amount of dosh to retrieve it - impossibly ridiculous). Anyway, if there's any of that funny business going on, I will do what I can to avoid that for you.
I'm celebrating my 40th, and my first year in blogging. Won't you join me?
Yes, have a cuppa and slice of chocolate cake!
Tonight, Pacific Standard Time, I will be posting my ROCKTOBER GIVE-AWAY post. You'll have 24 hours to comment . . . to win whatever I post about . . . winner announced some time on the 15th. I will mail to the winner this week . . . providing I get the address in time to do so . . . and I will mail anywhere in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, Canada . . . wherever. World-wide. And, if you live in a E.U. country, well, I will try to mail it in a manner you do not have to get it from the post and pay out a fee/fine for having a foreign packet. (my SIL sent a lovely parcel to Ireland and the gent had to cough up a exorbitant amount of dosh to retrieve it - impossibly ridiculous). Anyway, if there's any of that funny business going on, I will do what I can to avoid that for you.
I'm celebrating my 40th, and my first year in blogging. Won't you join me?
Yes, have a cuppa and slice of chocolate cake!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Well, I Must Die To Myself . . .
. . . so I am killing myself slowly with the garage cleaning project. Just kidding, folks.
I dare not share before pictures. Ha. There aren't any! I didn't want to ever remember what it looked like. But, here is an after picture.
Okay, it's only part of the garage. I just don't want to shame myself any further by sharing how much junk we still have. All that junk is neatly sorted onto two shelving units though. The difference in the garage now is this: the stack of flat boxes used to be standing stuffed with packing paper. All the packing paper was removed, unrolled, flattened and folded into the three remaining standing boxes. Ugh. The boxes used to take up 1/4 of the floor space and traversing through the mess to get to the van every time we left was, quite frankly, like walking a tightrope. It feels good to have this project done. Tomorrow morning I will ring up the moving company and schedule the pickup and that floor space will be uninhabited. Wonderful!
In this picture, I wanted to share how my husband thinks it's best to "mow" the lawn. I think the two hundred quid we'd have spent on any mower beats the hell outta winging that whacker back and forth. But, he's willing . . .
Here's my "this evenings" project. There are things on one chair and all over the table top that I need to sort. It's all crafting stuff that we drug out of the under the stairs spooky hidey hole storage compartment. That area under the stairs now holds camping equipment (we can get to - in the back most part), Christmas decorations (nearer the front of the back), and my huge container of pictures w/ another container holding unfinished albums. Honestly, I doubt I'll ever get any of that done in my lifetime.
I was sooooo happy to have all those boxes (five or six of them) emptied, sorted, what-have-you in order to gain back this space in front of the door/shelf. Once I get the shelf (I want) in my kitchen, the blue boxes (in the picture) will go on the bottom - they are all party lite candle holders. If I don't use them in one year, I will donate them to Good Will or Salvation Army. But once they are shelved properly, I can move the shelf back, centered under the crucifix (yes, it bothers me that it's off center, but it bothers me more to trip over the boxes).
So, thanks to Jen, (who posted before/after pics of her garage cleaning and inspired me) I have done some organizing projects that needed doing. Merci!
I dare not share before pictures. Ha. There aren't any! I didn't want to ever remember what it looked like. But, here is an after picture.
Okay, it's only part of the garage. I just don't want to shame myself any further by sharing how much junk we still have. All that junk is neatly sorted onto two shelving units though. The difference in the garage now is this: the stack of flat boxes used to be standing stuffed with packing paper. All the packing paper was removed, unrolled, flattened and folded into the three remaining standing boxes. Ugh. The boxes used to take up 1/4 of the floor space and traversing through the mess to get to the van every time we left was, quite frankly, like walking a tightrope. It feels good to have this project done. Tomorrow morning I will ring up the moving company and schedule the pickup and that floor space will be uninhabited. Wonderful!In this picture, I wanted to share how my husband thinks it's best to "mow" the lawn. I think the two hundred quid we'd have spent on any mower beats the hell outta winging that whacker back and forth. But, he's willing . . .
Here's my "this evenings" project. There are things on one chair and all over the table top that I need to sort. It's all crafting stuff that we drug out of the under the stairs spooky hidey hole storage compartment. That area under the stairs now holds camping equipment (we can get to - in the back most part), Christmas decorations (nearer the front of the back), and my huge container of pictures w/ another container holding unfinished albums. Honestly, I doubt I'll ever get any of that done in my lifetime.
I was sooooo happy to have all those boxes (five or six of them) emptied, sorted, what-have-you in order to gain back this space in front of the door/shelf. Once I get the shelf (I want) in my kitchen, the blue boxes (in the picture) will go on the bottom - they are all party lite candle holders. If I don't use them in one year, I will donate them to Good Will or Salvation Army. But once they are shelved properly, I can move the shelf back, centered under the crucifix (yes, it bothers me that it's off center, but it bothers me more to trip over the boxes).
So, thanks to Jen, (who posted before/after pics of her garage cleaning and inspired me) I have done some organizing projects that needed doing. Merci!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
What to Share, What to Share . . .
Teenie's first project (the cat); and the Yellow Ginger flower by a Hawaiian designer I finished up today (started last night, went blind, finished this afternoon). I just need to do a little something else with it and get it mailed somewhere. It always amazes me that for something that small, it takes me forever and a day - I enjoy it while I'm crafting, but when I think of the time involved I think, "crap, I could have been reading!" But, anyway, I so enjoy this craft! And I so enjoy giving my stuff away. Books can wait, too. I must admit that it's far easier to consume coffee and tea whilst reading than when both my hands are occupied with this craft.
WHAT ELSE IS NEW?
I won the book Therese at The Musings of a Mom was giving away for her 500th post. Hurrah!
Teenie and I took more crazy headshots. Enjoy!
Caught with her eyes shut (no, she wasn't sleeping). I think after several pictures with flash, she instinctively shut her eyes. Can dog see spots, too?
I never tire of these silly pictures (taken when shaking our heads).
All of Teenie's kept turning up "not so good/funny".
Mine were turning up "not so good/funny" as well. NOT our night for that. So, I did what came naturally, of course: (h/t Alexa)
Here we are all better now. Loads of laughing will improve your complexion and digestion.
(this tee shirt was the one Crickles won playing a game and 'losing' that Father Leo gave him - for losing - at a talk he gave our parish in Maryland). I'm thrilled he won the Throw Down with Bobby Flay. Father Leo is a gentleman and a wonderful man of God.
Um'kay. The story I got was he climbed in, so did Hols, and SB locked it shut and Teenie snapped pics.
He better not even think about climbing back into those clothes to sleep in tonight!!!
PUNK! Stay outta my house!!
WHAT ELSE IS NEW?
I won the book Therese at The Musings of a Mom was giving away for her 500th post. Hurrah!
Teenie and I took more crazy headshots. Enjoy!
Caught with her eyes shut (no, she wasn't sleeping). I think after several pictures with flash, she instinctively shut her eyes. Can dog see spots, too?
I never tire of these silly pictures (taken when shaking our heads).
All of Teenie's kept turning up "not so good/funny".
Mine were turning up "not so good/funny" as well. NOT our night for that. So, I did what came naturally, of course: (h/t Alexa)
Here we are all better now. Loads of laughing will improve your complexion and digestion.
(this tee shirt was the one Crickles won playing a game and 'losing' that Father Leo gave him - for losing - at a talk he gave our parish in Maryland). I'm thrilled he won the Throw Down with Bobby Flay. Father Leo is a gentleman and a wonderful man of God.
Um'kay. The story I got was he climbed in, so did Hols, and SB locked it shut and Teenie snapped pics.
He better not even think about climbing back into those clothes to sleep in tonight!!!
PUNK! Stay outta my house!!
I'm Definitely Buying This
It hits shelves on the 27th of this month, from what I gathered at Amazon.com. If I can order on Amazon to get free shipping, I'll go that route, but otherwise shipping to HI is a pain in the wallet. I'd be willing just to have a copy of this. I love her blog/website. She's funny, she's real, and she's really funny! Go see Ree yourself. You'll be glad you did.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Mahalo, Dawn
Well, I got an interesting phone call the other morning. It was Dawn calling to inform me that I would have to go downtown Honolulu to get my birthday present from Fiddlesticks (a new-found lovely shop!). Hurrah!
I love Dawn.
I love presents.
I love crafts.
I am addicted to cross stitch again.
I got three crafts. One is a beginner kit that I used to teach Teenie how to cross stitch. So far, she is holding up swell. See, she had to already make two fixes. The kit teaches the knot technique, which I told her she could do, but it is better to not start out that way and create a habit that you do not want to use on more advanced kits. She's quite chuffed with her kitty and ball of yarn. I'll post pics when she's done. *knot tech: knotting rather than tucking the string behind stitches (tucking is cleaner). * She will backstitch tomorrow. It was fun to teach her some time saving techniques I had to learn myself over time. She's really good at listening and figuring it out and being patient with me.
The two other kits are ornaments. One will be a gift for someone and the other will be for me (a coffee cup). Pictures when done, of course. It may be a bit of time before I share those as I'm in love IN LOVE with the Hawaiian flower patterns I got the other day. Of course, I have to set them aside when the lighting goes wonky as the sky smolders gray and the rain pours! I am stitching yellow ginger - the light yellow on the cream canvas was enough to make me cry. I shall finish this one tomorrow (lighting in the evening isn't so great). The ornaments require some beading. A new "thang" for me.
SO, Dawn, my dear friend, thank you SO MUCH for thinking of me and giving me this great opportunity to shop at Fiddlesticks again. One of the gals there, Joan, is very helpful and delightful to chit chat with, too!
Many blessings!
I love Dawn.
I love presents.
I love crafts.
I am addicted to cross stitch again.
I got three crafts. One is a beginner kit that I used to teach Teenie how to cross stitch. So far, she is holding up swell. See, she had to already make two fixes. The kit teaches the knot technique, which I told her she could do, but it is better to not start out that way and create a habit that you do not want to use on more advanced kits. She's quite chuffed with her kitty and ball of yarn. I'll post pics when she's done. *knot tech: knotting rather than tucking the string behind stitches (tucking is cleaner). * She will backstitch tomorrow. It was fun to teach her some time saving techniques I had to learn myself over time. She's really good at listening and figuring it out and being patient with me.
The two other kits are ornaments. One will be a gift for someone and the other will be for me (a coffee cup). Pictures when done, of course. It may be a bit of time before I share those as I'm in love IN LOVE with the Hawaiian flower patterns I got the other day. Of course, I have to set them aside when the lighting goes wonky as the sky smolders gray and the rain pours! I am stitching yellow ginger - the light yellow on the cream canvas was enough to make me cry. I shall finish this one tomorrow (lighting in the evening isn't so great). The ornaments require some beading. A new "thang" for me.
SO, Dawn, my dear friend, thank you SO MUCH for thinking of me and giving me this great opportunity to shop at Fiddlesticks again. One of the gals there, Joan, is very helpful and delightful to chit chat with, too!
Many blessings!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Weekend Madness and Plans
Two of the three girls are here. It's not too noisy yet. I think the third girl got bad directions from Teenie and no one has her number. Phooey. But, the two king ranch chicken casseroles are almost ready to eat . . .
. . . and I went to get the mail and the book is here (see post below). I'll have to carve out just a bit more quiet time each day as I read this book and pray. I love adding to my prayer time!
I decided that I should roll up the garage door and start in on the boxes. I will begin Friday afternoon, once all the girls are gone and my house is mine again (so to speak). I will take one box and designate it as the packing paper box (I'll have to pull all the packing paper, flatten it, and fold it to make it work that way. As each box is flattened I'll be that much closer to calling the moving company to come pick them up. I want that outta here by the end of next week, please.
If my parents send me money for my birthday this year (like they usually do), I'm buying myself a restaurant shelf (those steel ones; some are painted white) for my kitchen. We have two out in the garage, but they are dirty and need to stay in the garage to store the stuff in the garage. So, that's my plan. Then my kitchen will be more organized!
Next, I need to get my husband to go through the boxes of his stuff by the back door. It's really just a major eyesore at this point. Until the above items are done, there's no room in the garage to put them until he makes time to go through them. He will, it's just a matter of time.
And a lot of pushing on my part.
It's necessary. Seventeen years of stuff - we need to have the keep, give away, throw away piles done so that when we leave here in three years we aren't scrambling like we did leaving Maryland. Do it now, not as much pain later.
So, that's our weekend outlook, if God wills it! May God richly bless His plans for you.
P.S. I finished the British Bear. Hurrah!
. . . and I went to get the mail and the book is here (see post below). I'll have to carve out just a bit more quiet time each day as I read this book and pray. I love adding to my prayer time!
I decided that I should roll up the garage door and start in on the boxes. I will begin Friday afternoon, once all the girls are gone and my house is mine again (so to speak). I will take one box and designate it as the packing paper box (I'll have to pull all the packing paper, flatten it, and fold it to make it work that way. As each box is flattened I'll be that much closer to calling the moving company to come pick them up. I want that outta here by the end of next week, please.
If my parents send me money for my birthday this year (like they usually do), I'm buying myself a restaurant shelf (those steel ones; some are painted white) for my kitchen. We have two out in the garage, but they are dirty and need to stay in the garage to store the stuff in the garage. So, that's my plan. Then my kitchen will be more organized!
Next, I need to get my husband to go through the boxes of his stuff by the back door. It's really just a major eyesore at this point. Until the above items are done, there's no room in the garage to put them until he makes time to go through them. He will, it's just a matter of time.
And a lot of pushing on my part.
It's necessary. Seventeen years of stuff - we need to have the keep, give away, throw away piles done so that when we leave here in three years we aren't scrambling like we did leaving Maryland. Do it now, not as much pain later.
So, that's our weekend outlook, if God wills it! May God richly bless His plans for you.
P.S. I finished the British Bear. Hurrah!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Some Rubbish Words and Pictures (But I Like It, So I'm Sharing)
I made mention of a tea room (that also serves coffee - quaint!) called Bibbitea Bobbitea Brew. I purchased these wonderful tea cups from their store, which they imported from Japan. They so reminded me of the cute cups that a dear friend of mine in MD (hello J) who one day made me a pot of coffee and left two cups for me to drink it . . . we were in the throws of moving and our coffee maker was packed and shipped off ahead of us. *Remember that express shipment arrived after our household goods. Funny stuff* Anyway, these cups bring me the joy-joys so I had to have them. My fav are the blue ones, Teenie likes the dark brown one. Now we are using my wee 2 Cup Brown Betty almost daily. (Brown Betty: an English tea pot that is so adorable; I must find and buy a larger one, me thinks!).
I think that most of you will enjoy this, so I'll tell you that the rusted (yes, it's rusted) sign behind all that says "On This Site in 1897 Nothing Happened".
Yes, proof that the reason my bum is expanding exponentially: me sits on it a great deal of time thinking I'm crafty. The bear is coming along nicely now that I'm staying evenly caffeinated with my morning coffee and day-long sipping of tea.
As of today, the bear has his face and hands and the yellow trim all done. Feet are next, then finish the nose and eyes, fill in the "gold" belt and buttons, and add his musket and done. P'raps tomorrow I shall be so lucky to be done.
Here is a useful basket. I do not know why I bought it until now other than I had to have it. Yeah? I used to be so stupid with money! It's Longaberger, I have to have it!!! I was simply mad. But, now I'm glad I was mad, for this basket finally has a purpose. It holds the cross stitch kits I want to sew (and the new ones I just bought at Fiddlesticks; they are up front). The red frame and the poinsettia will be the Christmas gift for my MIL this year if all goes well. I just have to keep loving the stitching. How is that done? Well, for me, it means to keep it out in front of me so my compulsive arse just does it. If I put it away, I will forget about it.
Have y'all seen the commercials and seen the advertisements in the papers? This stuff will make hair grow where you do not want it to grow, it's that strong. Oy vey! Definitely an "after the morning shower" coffee. Betwixt the two, you oughtta be awake for say, a century! For my remaining two packets, I will use more water than the 8 ounces they recommend. It will not lesson the amount of teeth chattering, mind jarring, caffeine, but I will be able to handle the strength without loads of fattening half and half and pots of sugar.
I await an order from www.giftstore.holyhill.com for this book:
This is the latest re-print (Dec. 2006) of the handbook for all aspirants to the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order, by Teresian Charism Press, Fr. Michael D. Griffin, OCD, Director. It includes a new chapter on the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our Souls. Father Michael, a Carmelite priest who studied in Rome and lives here at Holy Hill, has written other works such as "God, the Joy of My Life."
I consider myself an aspirant to the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order . . . it was recommended me that I read this book to begin the journey. I do not think, after some research and some kindly help that came my way, that there is an order on O'ahu. So, I'm not sure where this is going to lead me, but I shall walk along and keep praying anyway.
Tomorrow my girl is having three of her friends come over and stay the night. I do not really like to do these sleepover things, but they are very rare and few and far between. She's asked me to make King Ranch Chicken (I think you can find the recipe on my cooking blog) for dinner. We have popcorn and chips (ice cream run tomorrow morning; will be getting fruit for their breakfast as well). I'm going to make buttermilk pancakes (mum's recipe) with the fruit. If any of the girls stay on for lunch, they'll have tuna sandwiches, which Teenie says they all "love" (I notice I need bread, too).
So, the noise will begin in the afternoon tomorrow. Fun.
I think that most of you will enjoy this, so I'll tell you that the rusted (yes, it's rusted) sign behind all that says "On This Site in 1897 Nothing Happened".
Yes, proof that the reason my bum is expanding exponentially: me sits on it a great deal of time thinking I'm crafty. The bear is coming along nicely now that I'm staying evenly caffeinated with my morning coffee and day-long sipping of tea.
As of today, the bear has his face and hands and the yellow trim all done. Feet are next, then finish the nose and eyes, fill in the "gold" belt and buttons, and add his musket and done. P'raps tomorrow I shall be so lucky to be done.
Here is a useful basket. I do not know why I bought it until now other than I had to have it. Yeah? I used to be so stupid with money! It's Longaberger, I have to have it!!! I was simply mad. But, now I'm glad I was mad, for this basket finally has a purpose. It holds the cross stitch kits I want to sew (and the new ones I just bought at Fiddlesticks; they are up front). The red frame and the poinsettia will be the Christmas gift for my MIL this year if all goes well. I just have to keep loving the stitching. How is that done? Well, for me, it means to keep it out in front of me so my compulsive arse just does it. If I put it away, I will forget about it.
Have y'all seen the commercials and seen the advertisements in the papers? This stuff will make hair grow where you do not want it to grow, it's that strong. Oy vey! Definitely an "after the morning shower" coffee. Betwixt the two, you oughtta be awake for say, a century! For my remaining two packets, I will use more water than the 8 ounces they recommend. It will not lesson the amount of teeth chattering, mind jarring, caffeine, but I will be able to handle the strength without loads of fattening half and half and pots of sugar.
I await an order from www.giftstore.holyhill.com for this book:
This is the latest re-print (Dec. 2006) of the handbook for all aspirants to the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order, by Teresian Charism Press, Fr. Michael D. Griffin, OCD, Director. It includes a new chapter on the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our Souls. Father Michael, a Carmelite priest who studied in Rome and lives here at Holy Hill, has written other works such as "God, the Joy of My Life."
I consider myself an aspirant to the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order . . . it was recommended me that I read this book to begin the journey. I do not think, after some research and some kindly help that came my way, that there is an order on O'ahu. So, I'm not sure where this is going to lead me, but I shall walk along and keep praying anyway.
Tomorrow my girl is having three of her friends come over and stay the night. I do not really like to do these sleepover things, but they are very rare and few and far between. She's asked me to make King Ranch Chicken (I think you can find the recipe on my cooking blog) for dinner. We have popcorn and chips (ice cream run tomorrow morning; will be getting fruit for their breakfast as well). I'm going to make buttermilk pancakes (mum's recipe) with the fruit. If any of the girls stay on for lunch, they'll have tuna sandwiches, which Teenie says they all "love" (I notice I need bread, too).
So, the noise will begin in the afternoon tomorrow. Fun.
Our Lady of the Rosary
picture source: http://www.flowerofcarmel.com- Áve María, grátia pléna, Dóminus técum.
- Benedícta tu in muliéribus, et benedíctus frúctus véntris túi, Iésus.
- Sáncta María, Máter Déi, óra pro nóbis peccatóribus,
- nunc et in hóra mórtis nóstrae. Ámen.
Mother Most Dear, guide my hands as they humbly grasp your beads. Guide my lips as they speak these most beautiful prayers. Quiet my soul as I contemplate the Mysteries of Christ, your Son. Stir my heart with a great love for His Will so that I may live this life of travail with great hope in the life to come. God grant me the grace to desire it. Amen.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
For My Friend Heather & Anyone Else Who Loves A Little Chuck
H/T Creative Minority Report (who h/t'd a few others) . . . I can't be bothered by all the linkyloos).
Fiddlesticks!
Oh my, my, my, my!
I love this wee store called Fiddlesticks on Coral Street in Honolulu. Oh, my! Jenny of Elefantz, girl, you would LOVE it!! I am a beginner, but these gals have a newsletter (signed on) and classes (will look and join a class soon) and they will order in any.thing.at.all. They have all kinds of Hawaiian designs by local artists . . .
I'm in stitching (only cross stitching - for now - they have embroidery, and felting, and needlepoint) heaven.
I need to finish up that British bear (he's close) so I can crack open a few lovely kits!
I love this wee store called Fiddlesticks on Coral Street in Honolulu. Oh, my! Jenny of Elefantz, girl, you would LOVE it!! I am a beginner, but these gals have a newsletter (signed on) and classes (will look and join a class soon) and they will order in any.thing.at.all. They have all kinds of Hawaiian designs by local artists . . .
I'm in stitching (only cross stitching - for now - they have embroidery, and felting, and needlepoint) heaven.
I need to finish up that British bear (he's close) so I can crack open a few lovely kits!
Thoughts Before Coffee
Today I want to dare myself to drive into Honolulu (not as far in as where the condo was, but close) to find a craft store called Fiddlesticks. They carry a load of embroidery/cross-stitching type stuff. No yarns. I wish they did and I wish they had classes. I sure would like to try to learn crochet or knitting. One day I will. It will happen when Chief retires and we live in Minnesota. I bet that's when. Still, it is probably better I do not take up a new hobby when I could be so much better in the ones I already dabble in.
In the mean time, I do have some kits (cross stitch) to work on, but I really only have three I want to do . . . the others I may donate out - they don't interest me). There's a magazine from England I got (it was $9 for God'sakes and I'm keeping it) at Barnes and Noble. I got some great charts in it. Well, they put skill levels on stuff . . . I reckon I'm a 2 out of 3. I could be a 3 eventually, but I need to master some techniques. Fiddlesticks is the kind of store that can help me do that - and learn embroidery - when I get stuck. I do learn better by witnessing than reading/processing for these types of things.
I have to do this trip today . . . the rest of my week is going to be busy busy . . . if I'm going to do it this week. I'm glad I cleaned the upstairs bathrooms last night . . . I only have the guest bathroom downstairs to tackle today. Should be a quick job. I would have done last night, but I got really sweaty and needed to cool off and when I sat down on the big chair and put my feet up, I sorta stuck there.
I need coffee. See how dull my posts are without that injection of artificial energy?
In the mean time, I do have some kits (cross stitch) to work on, but I really only have three I want to do . . . the others I may donate out - they don't interest me). There's a magazine from England I got (it was $9 for God'sakes and I'm keeping it) at Barnes and Noble. I got some great charts in it. Well, they put skill levels on stuff . . . I reckon I'm a 2 out of 3. I could be a 3 eventually, but I need to master some techniques. Fiddlesticks is the kind of store that can help me do that - and learn embroidery - when I get stuck. I do learn better by witnessing than reading/processing for these types of things.
I have to do this trip today . . . the rest of my week is going to be busy busy . . . if I'm going to do it this week. I'm glad I cleaned the upstairs bathrooms last night . . . I only have the guest bathroom downstairs to tackle today. Should be a quick job. I would have done last night, but I got really sweaty and needed to cool off and when I sat down on the big chair and put my feet up, I sorta stuck there.
I need coffee. See how dull my posts are without that injection of artificial energy?
Monday, October 5, 2009
Guess What I'm Doing?
It's not what I'm doing, it's what I should be doing . . .
. . . is it my fault I don't think I was born to do manual labour? I really really really dislike cleaning bathrooms. I mean, I do them once a week, minimum. So, it's not like they get really bad, but . . . yuck!
. . . okay, off I go. I really need to get them done. All three.
Blech.
. . . is it my fault I don't think I was born to do manual labour? I really really really dislike cleaning bathrooms. I mean, I do them once a week, minimum. So, it's not like they get really bad, but . . . yuck!
. . . okay, off I go. I really need to get them done. All three.
Blech.
Wonderful Saint
Pray for us!
I haven't time to dawdle here all day so I'll keep this posting brief.
- I'm getting better now that I coughed up (no pun intended; well, okay it was) the dosh for a thirty day supply of Claritin. I'll be ringing up the clinic to get an appointment for my allergies to get the pills free from here on out. I did have a cold, which is gone, but I figured out that the continuation of mild headaches and sinus bits were due to allergies. I have never had allergies this bad . . . except when I lived off Alegra for four years while living in Disgusta, GA. I mean, Augusta. The worst of my situation is the buildup in my left ear that gets in the way of my hearing. I don't swim or get water in my ears -ever- so I think this is why I have build up trouble. It usually resolves itself in a few days time, but it sure can be annoying! Q-tips make it worse, so I don't even try! My right ear gets very tired from all the noise after a long day . . . I expect, though, that the doctor will help clear up that problem quickly. The only time my blood pressure goes through the roof is when a doctor messes in my ears. The long history of trouble is why. It makes my jaw clench uncontrollably just thinking about it.
- Crickles is better, but not altogether. His throat is raw, scratchy, and lumpy. Hmmm. Methinks he has strep. To be certain of the truth in that, he has an appointment today.
- Squirrel Boy had his one filling filled this morning. It was so quick for the $113 it cost me (after insurance). They want to take an x-ray on Wednesday when I bring in Teenie for her cleaning. This x-ray will be for a proposal they want to put forth to the insurance company to cover an adult crown for SB. They usually won't pay up a share on crowns until after age 17. SB has very weak enamel and if the proposal is done well, he may get the adult one put on and it won't cost me my right eyeball. Well, we'll see what insurance will do and make the decision to pay out of pocket for the adult crown ourselves or see if the semi-permanent one can hold him off until age 17 - all the factors to make a decision later. An uninsured crown can be about $800. We can do it, but why if we are paying for insurance that will give us some back of what we pay for it for?
- I'm excited that Suz got her goodies from me. I mailed that stuff out Friday and the post office said they would reach their destinations by mid-week. Fine. That's not bad, I think. But, Suz got hers today (Monday). It must have caught the last Friday plane outta here! SO, Therese should be getting hers and the key fob should get to our friends soon, too. Wonderful!
- I have begun working out plans for the other pay it forwards. I am not worried about Christine's. She will be happy with whatever I send, I'm sure. So will Erika - she's known me practically my whole life. BUT, with Erika I struggle with the fact (yes, it is a fact) that she is so much more talented that me in the crafting/sewing department. I do not mind that fact at all. She should be properly proud of that - and the fact that I know she will love whatever she gets from me, but I want it to be PERFECT and made perfectly with love. I know whatever I send, she will be able to reproduce - if her tykes give her enough time and space to create it. She's a super busy mummy to super busy boys! I just admire her strength - three boys that really get into everything and keep her so busy! And, they are so super cute!! So, Christine and Erika - I'm finally on it. I have the "fabric".
- My kids are on Fall break from school. They return to school on my birthday. It's kind of depressing. I have to send them back to school on a day I'd rather they be with me! Well, I like them with me as much as possible anyway, but . . . the house will be too quiet on my birthday so I think I'll have to pop down to Bibbit Tea Bobbit Tea Brew's for tea that morning and find something nosey to do. Of course, I'll bake my chocolate cake. Make my fudge frosting (again, thanks Dawn, for the recipe).
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