When I got my first office job, I was thrilled that I had ample opportunity to dress Melrose Place style. I loved wearing suits, tailored clothes and high heeled shoes. Once I became a stay-at-home mom my fashion sense faded along with my old pair of blue jeans which are now practically white. Actually the jeans I was wearing for a while were my mom's cast offs. (Bet you didn't know that, Chris.)
Now that I am finally back at pre-pregnancy weight albeit my shape is not what it used to be, I can now fit into my old clothes comfortably. My usual look is a plain collarless knit shirt, long or short depending on the season, and a pair of jeans with plain flats or sneakers. I wear these for practicality, economy and comfort. That’s my personal mission statement and how I roll. I don’t see the need to wear the latest style mainly because there is no pressure to dress to impress. Dry clean only clothing with heels doesn’t work well at the playground or when doing chores around the house. Most stay-at-home moms know what I’m talking about. (Don’t you?!) The hair gets put in a ponytail, maybe makeup and a matching top with bottoms and sensible shoes.
It is this mindset that drives my mom and my sister up a wall, especially when I have an event to go to. I admit that when I open my closet door, there isn’t much in there that is eye catching. When Alan’s company holiday party approaches, I venture to discount department stores to see what the latest fashion statements are. This year I had a double whammy – high school reunion and a holiday party. Oh boy!
My game plan was to visit the discount department stores to see what I could find. If nothing turned up, begrudgingly off to Macy’s and the mall where I was sure to put a dent in my wallet. I was pleased when I found the sleeveless sequined shirt in my size right off the bat. I grabbed it and moved on to find something to put over it as well as other outfit options. My heart skipped two beats when I saw the portrait collared fitted jacket. Next to it was a fully sequined dress or tunic. I grabbed them too along with a pair of leggings. I felt like I was reliving my childhood playing dress up. Before going into the fitting rooms a.k.a The Evil Rooms of Stark Truth, I grabbed some heels so I could get an idea of the full dressed up look.
When I put on the sequined tunic, it seemed to be a little too long to put the leggings underneath so just put on the heels and with a deep breath hoped that I could summon the look of Marilyn Monroe, brunette style. Let’s just say that the dress would have been a definite yes fifteen years ago and leave it at that. I told this to the woman monitoring the dressing rooms and she sincerely apologized as if my aging was her fault. I let her take the blame. The woman in the stall next to me must have been having the same experience I was because I heard a lot of huffing and she was talking to herself saying, “No, no, no. That’s not right.”
Since the jacket, the sequined shirt and leggings fit and seemed to go well together, I decided to buy those along with a swimmingly shimmery gold shirt as another distant option to go under the jacket. When I got home, I tried on the ensemble including the sequined shirt and was pleased with how I looked. When my fashion advisors, Mom and Chris, came over for Thanksgiving, I proudly told them not only did I buy a new outfit for the reunion but I thought it was quite stylish. This statement quickly snapped them out of their turkey induced tryptophan haze so I quickly went upstairs to change. The great reveal did not elicit a response I was expecting. Apparently the sequined shirt was too long and was unacceptably past the bottom of the jacket. I had done some quick research on this previously and noted in ads that girls wore untucked shirts under blazers. I was firmly told this was not apples to apples. The sequined shirt would be fine by itself, no jacket, or wear something else under the jacket.
Disheartened at my attempt to be current with fashion, I mumbled that I had an ugly gold shirt I bought as an option but told them it looked just awful. They said try it on. I put it on and their eyes lit up. I was so dumbfounded by their reaction that I asked them a few times if they were kidding me. They said no and that this shirt was the correct length. In my eyes, it was the same length but hey, my eyes are trained for sensible clothing and I was way out of my element here. Another reason I was hoping the gold shirt wasn’t going to work out was I felt I spent too much money on clothes I was going to wear only a few times ever. I wanted to return something to ease my conscience and wallet but it didn’t seem to be working out.
The day of the reunion I called Mom to confirm what time she was coming over to watch Nate and to tell her that I found a “new” shirt to go under the jacket. She happened to be out with Chris at a restaurant. I don’t know how but Chris heard my voice on the phone and said to Mom and loud enough so I could hear, “She just doesn’t want to wear that gold shirt!” I excitedly explained that this shirt was bright pink and offered a punch of color to the black leggings and jacket. They weren’t convinced.
When Mom showed up that night, I showed her the altered ensemble. Her look was the same as Thanksgiving when I showed her the sequined shirt – not good. This was not the type of confidence boosting I was hoping for an hour before meeting people I haven’t seen in many years. With great reluctance, I continued getting ready for the night which included wearing the gold shirt. For color, I wore strappy red shoes which are only meant to be worn for fifteen minutes a day. The reunion was three hours long. I still haven’t learned my lesson on going out with appropriate shoes. In a small twist of irony, no one mentioned how I looked that evening which means I could have worn anything including an “old” outfit and saved money not to mention the comfort factor.
Alan’s company holiday party is a few weeks away from the time of this post. I’m going to have to get my money’s worth out of the sequined shirt. For some reason, I just cannot return it even though it is the most nonsensible item in my closet next to my wedding dress. I’m thinking about reconsidering another babysitter for Nate on that night so I can wear what I like without Mom’s disapproval. But I do find some humor in Mom and Chris’s strong repugnance of what I consider to be seemingly good fashion choices. I also find it somewhat amusing that at my age Mom’s opinion as to what I wear still matters great a deal to me.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
You Know It's Fall When...
For us in the Northeast this year the weather hasn’t been exactly a reliable source to signal what season we are in. The chilly spring weather continued well into the summer and then the rains came. I’m sure I heard someone hammering, taking a cue from old Noah and began building an ark.
In fact, lately it almost seems as if Summer realizes that it missed its opportunity and is now claiming October as its own. The weather has been nicely warm. But Autumn has arrived rather graciously and most people are welcoming it with open arms. The nights are cooler and the showy colors of bright red, orange and even purple leaves are displayed on the tree covered hillsides of the county. Some neighbors have tastefully decorated their homes with corn stalks, pumpkins and friendly faced scarecrows.
Even with all this beauty and charm around me there is one thing that completes the ushering in of Fall for me – Gronsky’s pumpkin pancakes. My faithful blog readers know that Gronsky’s makes fantastically awesome home fries but what they do with their pancakes is a recipe just short of manna from Heaven. One fork full will bring a delightful surprise of sweetness mixed with autumn spices. Not only are they delicious but the portion size is completely filling for two people with an average appetite. These bad boys may not pack a wallop on your wallet but I can just about guarantee they're out of the ballpark when it comes to the caloric count.
September 30th happened to be a Friday this year. Alan works from home on Fridays which means the family can eat breakfast together. On this particular day we decided to eat at a restaurant and since Gronsky’s is close to home and is affordable, that’s where we went. We sat at the table and I was prepared to order my usual when the waitress came up to the table and announced the pumpkin pancakes were beginning today. Jackpot!
When my order arrived, the pancake was to the edges of my plate, sprinkled with powdered sugar and topped with a melting dollop of divine spiced butter. I usually put syrup on my regular pancakes but this was so tasty, especially after smearing that butter thoroughly all over it, that I didn’t want to adulterate my breakfast. I can tell you that I recently tried it with syrup and was disappointed. Alan gave me some of his home fries to make up for it and it did.
If you’re in the area, I invite you to give those scrumptious pumpkin pancakes a try. Don’t wait too long cuz they're here for a limited time only!
In fact, lately it almost seems as if Summer realizes that it missed its opportunity and is now claiming October as its own. The weather has been nicely warm. But Autumn has arrived rather graciously and most people are welcoming it with open arms. The nights are cooler and the showy colors of bright red, orange and even purple leaves are displayed on the tree covered hillsides of the county. Some neighbors have tastefully decorated their homes with corn stalks, pumpkins and friendly faced scarecrows.
September 30th happened to be a Friday this year. Alan works from home on Fridays which means the family can eat breakfast together. On this particular day we decided to eat at a restaurant and since Gronsky’s is close to home and is affordable, that’s where we went. We sat at the table and I was prepared to order my usual when the waitress came up to the table and announced the pumpkin pancakes were beginning today. Jackpot!
When my order arrived, the pancake was to the edges of my plate, sprinkled with powdered sugar and topped with a melting dollop of divine spiced butter. I usually put syrup on my regular pancakes but this was so tasty, especially after smearing that butter thoroughly all over it, that I didn’t want to adulterate my breakfast. I can tell you that I recently tried it with syrup and was disappointed. Alan gave me some of his home fries to make up for it and it did.
If you’re in the area, I invite you to give those scrumptious pumpkin pancakes a try. Don’t wait too long cuz they're here for a limited time only!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
The Luck of the Leprechaun
This entry is dedicated to Tara R.
It had been a tough summer. I envy the moms who make motherhood look so effortless and carefree. I can’t say I’m having that experience. I love my son with all my heart but the past three or so years have been the toughest of my life. Part of the problem is Nate’s developing brain is constantly looking for input, mostly from me, which I have little energy to supply. I could have him leave me alone by allowing him to watch hours of TV but I don’t want that either. I bought activity books which resulted in reading, writing and solving math problems earlier than the school’s curriculum. The social aspect of school has helped a bit but his cerebral need is perpetual. If that’s too wordy, try this:
Tired mom who doesn’t want to play for several hours
+
Denying son of electronics games and TV =
Son’s infinite possibilities to annoy mom
I’m not sure if that can be a mathematical equation with “infinite” in there but then again, I was never good at math. What I do know is that the eye twitch I’ve been experiencing since August is still there but it has eased since I discovered a wonderfully easy technique that entertains Nate and changes his behavior while at the same time not using too much of my energy.
Nate loves to write notes on 2x2 sticky pads. Many times they say “I love you” on them. I find these notes all around the house: the refrigerator, my nightstand and of course on the floor. One day I saw he had written something new. It was a note to the leprechaun asking him for all his money. When I read this a cha-ching sound went off in my head. If money is the motivator, why not use it?
With a great sense of renewed hope for my mental well-being, I secretly authored a note as the leprechaun. Here’s what it said:
To Nate,
You did not say “please”! To get my money, you must be a good boy and keep your promises.
The Leprechaun
It should be known that just 8 hours before this, Nate adamantly stated that the promise he made to listen to his parents meant nothing.
When Nate found the leprechaun’s note, he was ecstatic. With the note grasped in both his hands and eyes wide with anticipation, he read it out loud to Alan and me. He was encouraged that the leprechaun said he could actually get some money but I don’t think he fully realized what it was going to take. It took a few days and a few notes from the leprechaun saying he was watching and was sad by the bad behavior he saw. The leprechaun’s advice was very close to what Mom and Dad have been saying all along. Within a week, Nate’s behavior had changed quite dramatically and for the better. He’s five years old – I’m not looking for perfection just an attitude adjustment so I could wake up in the morning and not wish I had stayed in bed with the covers over my head.
I admit I enjoy seeing Nate run to the table with high expectation of finding more notes. After all, he began keeping correspondence and was eagerly waiting to read the answers to his questions. In my eyes, this translated as Nate was finally listening to me. The first week, Nate was looking every couple of hours. I explained that the leprechaun only comes when no one is around. I found that leaving notes twice a day seems to maintain the peace and happiness that Alan and I so desperately want in our household.
Nate has been so well behaved that the leprechaun has even left a small treasure from his pot o’ gold – a quarter. This event has been epic in Nate’s young life so he has enthusiastically told many people about his fortunate experience including librarians, grocery store cashiers and the mail carrier. He has told some of his classmates who seem cynical about it but fortunately, this hasn’t shaken Nate’s belief that the leprechaun truly exists.
Like most stages in Nate’s life, eventually he will grow out of it. I hope it is something he just loses interest in (while still keeping good behavior) and doesn't find out that the leprechaun’s advice and treasure was only as far away as his loving mother.
It had been a tough summer. I envy the moms who make motherhood look so effortless and carefree. I can’t say I’m having that experience. I love my son with all my heart but the past three or so years have been the toughest of my life. Part of the problem is Nate’s developing brain is constantly looking for input, mostly from me, which I have little energy to supply. I could have him leave me alone by allowing him to watch hours of TV but I don’t want that either. I bought activity books which resulted in reading, writing and solving math problems earlier than the school’s curriculum. The social aspect of school has helped a bit but his cerebral need is perpetual. If that’s too wordy, try this:
Tired mom who doesn’t want to play for several hours
+
Denying son of electronics games and TV =
Son’s infinite possibilities to annoy mom
I’m not sure if that can be a mathematical equation with “infinite” in there but then again, I was never good at math. What I do know is that the eye twitch I’ve been experiencing since August is still there but it has eased since I discovered a wonderfully easy technique that entertains Nate and changes his behavior while at the same time not using too much of my energy.
Nate loves to write notes on 2x2 sticky pads. Many times they say “I love you” on them. I find these notes all around the house: the refrigerator, my nightstand and of course on the floor. One day I saw he had written something new. It was a note to the leprechaun asking him for all his money. When I read this a cha-ching sound went off in my head. If money is the motivator, why not use it?
With a great sense of renewed hope for my mental well-being, I secretly authored a note as the leprechaun. Here’s what it said:
To Nate,
You did not say “please”! To get my money, you must be a good boy and keep your promises.
The Leprechaun
It should be known that just 8 hours before this, Nate adamantly stated that the promise he made to listen to his parents meant nothing.
When Nate found the leprechaun’s note, he was ecstatic. With the note grasped in both his hands and eyes wide with anticipation, he read it out loud to Alan and me. He was encouraged that the leprechaun said he could actually get some money but I don’t think he fully realized what it was going to take. It took a few days and a few notes from the leprechaun saying he was watching and was sad by the bad behavior he saw. The leprechaun’s advice was very close to what Mom and Dad have been saying all along. Within a week, Nate’s behavior had changed quite dramatically and for the better. He’s five years old – I’m not looking for perfection just an attitude adjustment so I could wake up in the morning and not wish I had stayed in bed with the covers over my head.
I admit I enjoy seeing Nate run to the table with high expectation of finding more notes. After all, he began keeping correspondence and was eagerly waiting to read the answers to his questions. In my eyes, this translated as Nate was finally listening to me. The first week, Nate was looking every couple of hours. I explained that the leprechaun only comes when no one is around. I found that leaving notes twice a day seems to maintain the peace and happiness that Alan and I so desperately want in our household.
Nate has been so well behaved that the leprechaun has even left a small treasure from his pot o’ gold – a quarter. This event has been epic in Nate’s young life so he has enthusiastically told many people about his fortunate experience including librarians, grocery store cashiers and the mail carrier. He has told some of his classmates who seem cynical about it but fortunately, this hasn’t shaken Nate’s belief that the leprechaun truly exists.
Like most stages in Nate’s life, eventually he will grow out of it. I hope it is something he just loses interest in (while still keeping good behavior) and doesn't find out that the leprechaun’s advice and treasure was only as far away as his loving mother.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The Country Tourist Goes To NYC
Alan and I celebrated our eighth year of wedded bliss by taking a jaunt to New York City Museum of Modern Art
We decided to park at the Newport Mall inJersey City
I entered the car and grabbed the nearest stability bar to hold onto. Standing over a guy playing a soccer game on his tablet, I became engrossed as if watching a real game. Was what I was doing considered rude or invading someone else’s privacy? What are the etiquette rules about these situations? The fact that I didn’t have an electronic device that was actively engaging my attention made me feel out of place and outdated since my phone only does calls and texting. I’m also not used to standing over people while trying to get from Point A to Point B.
At least I didn’t stand out fashion wise, I thought to myself. I especially wore my patent leather, three inch heeled sexy shoes, a departure from my usual worn out ones, so I could walk around confidently and to look nice for Alan. I should have gone with the more humble approach. Women everywhere had on simple flip flops, probably bought from an expensive boutique but simple, not to mention enviously comfortable looking. We had more than an hour for our restaurant reservation so we had plenty of time to walk around. With each step, my mood boosting shoes began to lose their confidence building power and reversed into little chambers of torture. Within fifteen minutes I was sporting agonizing blisters, making me walk like a Chinese woman who has had her feet bound into “golden lilies”. I wondered why I chose to ignore the number one rule of visiting any city – wear comfortable footwear.
It was at this point of my frustration when I tried to salvage the romance of the evening by remembering I had brought the GPS with me. With a flood of relief and a low cackling laugh, I spied an empty bench in front of a closed tea shop. As we sat, I eagerly searched for a nearby steak restaurant. I was relieved there was one less than a mile away. I tried convincing my brain that I could walk a mile with searing pain. Unfortunately, the GPS was more like a cruel maze game. It seemed to reposition our destination further away every time we thought we were getting closer to it. Fortunately, I brought an old fashioned paper street map. We stood there on the corner, pointing and looking confused and in my mind’s eye - complete tourists. How embarrassing!
Alan’s phone rang and we both knew it was the restaurant telling us our table was ready a whole half hour early. I gave Alan a look similar to that of a football coach gives to his quarterback in the fourth quarter of a tied score playoff game, one and half minutes left, third down. Run and get that table! Going through all this pain would be for nothing if we didn’t get that table. He looked at me reluctantly as he weighed leaving me behind, barely being able to walk versus having to deal with my huge disappointment that we missed eating at a terrific restaurant. Food won and he ran in hot pursuit.
Now alone, I had to pull off looking like I knew where I was, where I was going and feeling great while doing it. That’s how I interpret the average city dweller and felt I had to put on airs to blend in. The best thing I had going for me was I was in the Village and didn’t have to worry about men heckling me. So using my antiquated paper map, I located where I was and saw where I had to go. Fifteen minutes later I walked into the crowded restaurant where people were laughing while I was wiping the sweat of pain from my brow.
As I walked to him, Alan gave me a sympathetic look like I was just hit by car and had dragged myself away from danger to safety. I smiled, gave him a kiss and said, “Happy anniversary and thank you!” I put away the pretense of who I wasn’t, a sophisticated city dweller, and happily accepted who I am: wife, mother and jane-of-all-things.
We decided to park at the Newport Mall in
I entered the car and grabbed the nearest stability bar to hold onto. Standing over a guy playing a soccer game on his tablet, I became engrossed as if watching a real game. Was what I was doing considered rude or invading someone else’s privacy? What are the etiquette rules about these situations? The fact that I didn’t have an electronic device that was actively engaging my attention made me feel out of place and outdated since my phone only does calls and texting. I’m also not used to standing over people while trying to get from Point A to Point B.
At least I didn’t stand out fashion wise, I thought to myself. I especially wore my patent leather, three inch heeled sexy shoes, a departure from my usual worn out ones, so I could walk around confidently and to look nice for Alan. I should have gone with the more humble approach. Women everywhere had on simple flip flops, probably bought from an expensive boutique but simple, not to mention enviously comfortable looking. We had more than an hour for our restaurant reservation so we had plenty of time to walk around. With each step, my mood boosting shoes began to lose their confidence building power and reversed into little chambers of torture. Within fifteen minutes I was sporting agonizing blisters, making me walk like a Chinese woman who has had her feet bound into “golden lilies”. I wondered why I chose to ignore the number one rule of visiting any city – wear comfortable footwear.
It was at this point of my frustration when I tried to salvage the romance of the evening by remembering I had brought the GPS with me. With a flood of relief and a low cackling laugh, I spied an empty bench in front of a closed tea shop. As we sat, I eagerly searched for a nearby steak restaurant. I was relieved there was one less than a mile away. I tried convincing my brain that I could walk a mile with searing pain. Unfortunately, the GPS was more like a cruel maze game. It seemed to reposition our destination further away every time we thought we were getting closer to it. Fortunately, I brought an old fashioned paper street map. We stood there on the corner, pointing and looking confused and in my mind’s eye - complete tourists. How embarrassing!
Alan’s phone rang and we both knew it was the restaurant telling us our table was ready a whole half hour early. I gave Alan a look similar to that of a football coach gives to his quarterback in the fourth quarter of a tied score playoff game, one and half minutes left, third down. Run and get that table! Going through all this pain would be for nothing if we didn’t get that table. He looked at me reluctantly as he weighed leaving me behind, barely being able to walk versus having to deal with my huge disappointment that we missed eating at a terrific restaurant. Food won and he ran in hot pursuit.
Now alone, I had to pull off looking like I knew where I was, where I was going and feeling great while doing it. That’s how I interpret the average city dweller and felt I had to put on airs to blend in. The best thing I had going for me was I was in the Village and didn’t have to worry about men heckling me. So using my antiquated paper map, I located where I was and saw where I had to go. Fifteen minutes later I walked into the crowded restaurant where people were laughing while I was wiping the sweat of pain from my brow.
As I walked to him, Alan gave me a sympathetic look like I was just hit by car and had dragged myself away from danger to safety. I smiled, gave him a kiss and said, “Happy anniversary and thank you!” I put away the pretense of who I wasn’t, a sophisticated city dweller, and happily accepted who I am: wife, mother and jane-of-all-things.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Rubbing Elbows and Other Parts with a Witch
I have never been the type of girl that likes to put any product on my face. I tried to wear makeup in high school because that’s what I thought all teen girls had to do as a rite to womanhood. During those years, I had the rare fortune of almost never having breakouts or even an occasional zit so it wasn’t truly necessary to wear makeup. The persistent mask-like feeling of makeup became so agitating that after a few weeks, my pressed powder pancake got archived in a makeup bag with the lipgloss I stole from my mom’s coveted dresser drawer five years earlier. I still have both products today.
In my late twenties, I read in a magazine article how young looking actresses used natural organic products or only water to clean their faces. Water was so cheap, a.k.a. free, that it couldn’t possibly work well. Witch hazel was mentioned so I thought I’d give it a try. I soaked the cotton ball with the oddly medicinal smelling stuff and applied generously to my face. There was no tingly sensation to let me know that this stuff was actually working. After a week or two, I gave it up feeling disappointed that the witch hazel didn’t bewitch me as I had anticipated.
Recently, my skin has taken an about-face turn. I should have thoroughly enjoyed all those years when my skin was extremely easy to take care of. Nowadays the hormones are partying like it’s 1999 and throwing their version of confetti which is very noticeable and revealed in the form of large, red dots on my face. Ugh! I tried using teen acne products but it dried out my skin, making it look older. Not the look I was hoping for. What’s a girl to do?!
My mom empathized with me and said I should try witch hazel with a few drops of aromatherapy oil. She had been using it for a while as a toner and it evened out her olive skin beautifully. Even though I had been there and done that I had to give another try. For the most noticeable part of my body, I had to exhaust all avenues of skin care. Within a week, my skin cleared up and seems to be balanced. I was so thrilled by the results that I looked up witch hazel online and found it also relieves itchy insect bites. As I’m usually the first course on the mosquito menu, I had ample opportunity to try it out. With great satisfaction, it took the itch right away.
I guess those self absorbed actresses were right – witch hazel does work even though it’s heinously inexpensive. I just had to learn to let the witch work its magic.
In my late twenties, I read in a magazine article how young looking actresses used natural organic products or only water to clean their faces. Water was so cheap, a.k.a. free, that it couldn’t possibly work well. Witch hazel was mentioned so I thought I’d give it a try. I soaked the cotton ball with the oddly medicinal smelling stuff and applied generously to my face. There was no tingly sensation to let me know that this stuff was actually working. After a week or two, I gave it up feeling disappointed that the witch hazel didn’t bewitch me as I had anticipated.
Recently, my skin has taken an about-face turn. I should have thoroughly enjoyed all those years when my skin was extremely easy to take care of. Nowadays the hormones are partying like it’s 1999 and throwing their version of confetti which is very noticeable and revealed in the form of large, red dots on my face. Ugh! I tried using teen acne products but it dried out my skin, making it look older. Not the look I was hoping for. What’s a girl to do?!
My mom empathized with me and said I should try witch hazel with a few drops of aromatherapy oil. She had been using it for a while as a toner and it evened out her olive skin beautifully. Even though I had been there and done that I had to give another try. For the most noticeable part of my body, I had to exhaust all avenues of skin care. Within a week, my skin cleared up and seems to be balanced. I was so thrilled by the results that I looked up witch hazel online and found it also relieves itchy insect bites. As I’m usually the first course on the mosquito menu, I had ample opportunity to try it out. With great satisfaction, it took the itch right away.
I guess those self absorbed actresses were right – witch hazel does work even though it’s heinously inexpensive. I just had to learn to let the witch work its magic.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Discovering The Deserts of Arizona
My family and I recently took a trip to Arizona Canada to Mexico
When we arrived at our hotel, we were already eager for the generous breakfast buffet in the morning. They have a waffle iron so anyone can make fresh waffles as desired. I like to see the faint smile on Alan’s lips as he saunters over to make one for himself. He usually asks if I’d like one but I think it’s more for the fun of making one more rather than filling my stomach. Nate likes the fact he can have a bagel with cream cheese every morning. I like that they have a pretty good variety of breakfast foods but my will power is strong enough to resist the not-so healthy stuff.
There was another small trail that led to a special area where the water fell in gentle curtains on tendrils of angel hair ferns in front of the small caves. It was a wonderful surprise to feel the cool droplets of water on my sun-warmed skin and completely refreshing especially when land and air are so dry. I half expected little faeries to come out of hiding and fly around us spreading pixie dust.
When we got out of the car, it was ten degrees warmer than when we first began our descent into the valley. A quick change into shorts and sporting our backpacks, we were ready for adventure. We didn’t see a trailhead so we took a steep path down to the creek bed. After I got my footing, my focus was immediately drawn to the rushing water sound and I was struck by the beauty I saw. Not too often have I seen such a place where nature has not been rearranged by man to make it “beautiful.” Perhaps that was not the complete case here but I was so overwhelmed by its beauty that I would not have wanted to believe it.
The rocks and boulders gave their shoulders to the sun and our feet as we tread on them. A log that had dropped in a shallow pool had already been encased by a mineral cast. The water was a gentle blue color in some areas, like that of the Caribbean Sea . The sun was efficient at heating us so that we took to hiking in the creek itself. At first the coolness felt sharp against our skin but we soon became accustomed to it. Because the water comes from an underground spring, the temperature stays the same – never too cool but also not too warm.
I cannot say that I am in great physical shape but I felt like I glided over fields of rocks as if it were flat land. The excitement of seeing what further mysteries the creek could offer us propelled me forward. I was feeling like I was a teenager again with endless energy and not a care in the world. We reached an area where a family decided to enjoy their afternoon. It was this exact spot that we would return to a few days later.
A waterfall had cut its way through rock and fed into a deep turquoise colored pool. I could not believe that the beauty I saw at this place a few days ago could be usurped but it was. There was a shallow area where the kids could safely walk around and splash in the warmer water. Alan and Mike climbed to the higher rocks which offered a balcony view of our playground. They took turns jumping off. It looked like fun until I climbed up there. Perhaps if the water was warmer I would have decided to be a daredevil like the guys. That’s the story I’m sticking with anyway.
The city of Phoenix
When we arrived at our hotel, we were already eager for the generous breakfast buffet in the morning. They have a waffle iron so anyone can make fresh waffles as desired. I like to see the faint smile on Alan’s lips as he saunters over to make one for himself. He usually asks if I’d like one but I think it’s more for the fun of making one more rather than filling my stomach. Nate likes the fact he can have a bagel with cream cheese every morning. I like that they have a pretty good variety of breakfast foods but my will power is strong enough to resist the not-so healthy stuff.
The town of Payson is surrounded by miles upon miles of state park which, for a native Jersey girl, is a refreshing change from living with every bit of real estate having a manmade structure on it. We met up with Alan’s brother, Mike, and went on many adventures. The first was at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
There was another small trail that led to a special area where the water fell in gentle curtains on tendrils of angel hair ferns in front of the small caves. It was a wonderful surprise to feel the cool droplets of water on my sun-warmed skin and completely refreshing especially when land and air are so dry. I half expected little faeries to come out of hiding and fly around us spreading pixie dust.
My idea of refreshing was superseded when we went to Fossil Creek. To get to it, we had to drive a half hour on a dusty, gravel road with terrific and stomach turning views of the canyon far below. Nonetheless, this place is a true oasis. Although we didn’t hike to it this time, there is a spring that gushes out so much water that it creates a fairly large creek. Mike told us not to expect to find fossils but rather everything the water touches is covered in a chalky like substance from the high mineral content.
When we got out of the car, it was ten degrees warmer than when we first began our descent into the valley. A quick change into shorts and sporting our backpacks, we were ready for adventure. We didn’t see a trailhead so we took a steep path down to the creek bed. After I got my footing, my focus was immediately drawn to the rushing water sound and I was struck by the beauty I saw. Not too often have I seen such a place where nature has not been rearranged by man to make it “beautiful.” Perhaps that was not the complete case here but I was so overwhelmed by its beauty that I would not have wanted to believe it.
The rocks and boulders gave their shoulders to the sun and our feet as we tread on them. A log that had dropped in a shallow pool had already been encased by a mineral cast. The water was a gentle blue color in some areas, like that of the Nate, who had tried walking across a shallow area, tripped and fell in. Shortly after, he began to shiver so we stopped in a flat area and used a sun-warmed boulder like a hot plate so Nate could warm up. We began to talk about going back to the car but the inner kid in me desperately wanted to hike on to see more. It’s terrible to admit I wanted to shirk my motherly duties to my son so I could go have fun. Alan knew I wanted to go ahead a little further and encouraged Mike and I to go on for a while. With more gratitude than I could express, I shifted my backpack and took to the towering wall of rocks next to us.
I cannot say that I am in great physical shape but I felt like I glided over fields of rocks as if it were flat land. The excitement of seeing what further mysteries the creek could offer us propelled me forward. I was feeling like I was a teenager again with endless energy and not a care in the world. We reached an area where a family decided to enjoy their afternoon. It was this exact spot that we would return to a few days later.
A waterfall had cut its way through rock and fed into a deep turquoise colored pool. I could not believe that the beauty I saw at this place a few days ago could be usurped but it was. There was a shallow area where the kids could safely walk around and splash in the warmer water. Alan and Mike climbed to the higher rocks which offered a balcony view of our playground. They took turns jumping off. It looked like fun until I climbed up there. Perhaps if the water was warmer I would have decided to be a daredevil like the guys. That’s the story I’m sticking with anyway.When we got back to New Jersey Arizona
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Springtime Easter Treats
Whenever a holiday nears and Nate's school announces a party, I feel guilty if I don't participate in the festivities. As moms that have two or three kids write their names on the sign up sheet to bring in treats, my guilt doubles. Where do they find the time? Aren't they tired? I only have one kid and I'm tired with no time.
Here's a little treat that takes no more than a half hour to make from start to finish. There is no baking involved and the results will pleasantly surprise you and your guests!
Makes about a dozen.
What you'll need:
12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate
14 ounces of sweetened coconut flakes
bag of small jellybeans
double boiler or heat safe glass bowl with small sauce pan
1 cup of water*
parchment paper or silicone baking mat, on a cookie sheet
a pair of latex gloves
Heat a double boiler or a heat safe glass bowl over a small sauce pan with a small amount of water in it until it boils. *The water should not touch the bottom of the glass bowl. Turn the heat down to a simmer and put the chocolate in the bowl. Stir constantly but gently with a spatula until completely melted.
Remove the melted chocolate from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Add half of the coconut flakes into the melted chocolate and stir until the flakes are covered. Add the remaining coconut and repeat, ensuring the coconut is completed covered in chocolate.
I found wearing latex gloves made this next part easier than not wearing gloves. Take a small handful of the coconut mixture, a little larger than golf ball sized, and loosely mold into a ball. The coconut should not be smoothed. Place onto parchment paper or silicone mat. Continue until you have a dozen or so. Then gently take your thumb and make an imprint into the middle of each ball, making a nest.
Once finished, place cookie sheet in the refrigerator for ten minutes to set the chocolate. Fill nests with jellybeans. That's it!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Spring Into Non-Action
I’m not sure who came up with the phrase “spring into action” but they certainly could not have had the season of Spring in mind. The phrase implies quick movement or a person who has their brain neurons firing at supersonic speed. Unfortunately for me, that is not my own experience and apparently not with the people around me as Spring begins. Brain neurons are still frozen from winter or they decelerated from watching too much TV.
After an extremely tough winter, the recent warmer weather has the effect like that of a blaring alarm clock and people en masse have awoken from their caves of home hibernation. The hibernating effects are still apparent: blank stares while reading the nutrition label of water bottles at the supermarket, feeling sleepy eighteen hours a day, and unattended facial and body hair. As we are now in the official season change, spring fever is setting in big time. Most of us know what to look for: the abandoning of heavy coats for lighter clothing and a general loss of common sense.
Lately slow drivers have been out in numbers more than usual. This annoys me more than my early onset of seasonal allergies. I’m not sure why spring fever would make one’s leg weaker so that pushing on the gas pedal requires extra effort. More than a few times I have been stuck behind a person driving ten whole miles under the speed limit. Where I live in the great state ofNew Jersey
The roads I usually travel on have a speed limit of twenty five mph. Going slower than this is less than amusing to me and to keep myself calm I talk to myself and double check my speedometer while wondering if it is still considered driving if my foot is off the gas pedal. I reason that excessive wind from the driver’s open windows causes the sensation that they are traveling much faster than they actually are. I have also had to ask myself, “Can one be overly cautious by stopping at every intersection even if one does not have a stop sign?” This combined with the super slow almost idling pace warms me to the idea of everyone having to take a behind the wheel driver’s test every decade. Whoever came up with the saying “patience is a virtue” never got stuck behind these kind of drivers.
In addition to the lack of speed, spring fever seems to confuse drivers as to which way is right and left. Most times, I am appreciative when others use their directional signals when I’m behind them. It is disturbing, though, when the right turn signal is on but the car is in the left turn only lane. Was it a good excuse that the person could barely see over the dashboard? Furthermore, I am confounded when someone leaves their signal on as they continue to drive without making any turns. Doesn’t the metronomic sound get annoying to these drivers? Maybe car manufacturers should consider changing the clicking sound to an obnoxious buzzing noise when the signal is turned on. I will gladly volunteer in aiding the effort by allowing them to record my annoying sounds.
The loss of common sense or, to use a more agreeable term, forgetfulness is a symptom of spring fever I myself have fallen victim to. There is a lot going on this time of year such as losing an hour during Daylight Savings Time. They seriously need to change the name of that because there is no savings when an hour is lost and as any busy parent will tell you, we need to lose one precious hour like we need a lost cell phone. To make matters worse, outings and sports activities are beginning. Fortunately these days, smart phones can easily handle recording schedules and virtual reminders so forgetfulness can be minimized…unless one forgets their phone or still has an old fashioned phone like I have that just calls and texts.
People actually wear looks of “forgetfulness” via the blank stare. This condition carries over from watching too much TV during hibernation and continues into the overwhelming need to begin several outdoor projects. Just this past week when temperatures climbed from the mid 60’s into the mid 70’s, I wore this very look on my face as I was flooded with ideas of all the projects I want to accomplish. While my brain was calculating probabilities as to which project was the most critical and what made sense as there is still chance of frost, I stood in my front doorway gazing out onto the street. As a neighbor passed by and waved, I remained frozen with eyes fixed as if the macadam had more important information to offer but in reality my brain was in double-time. Then as they reached my peripheral vision, I awoke from my calculating trance and went to say a belated hello but was abruptly stopped after body slamming the perfectly clean and nearly invisible glass storm door.
After an extremely tough winter, the recent warmer weather has the effect like that of a blaring alarm clock and people en masse have awoken from their caves of home hibernation. The hibernating effects are still apparent: blank stares while reading the nutrition label of water bottles at the supermarket, feeling sleepy eighteen hours a day, and unattended facial and body hair. As we are now in the official season change, spring fever is setting in big time. Most of us know what to look for: the abandoning of heavy coats for lighter clothing and a general loss of common sense.
Lately slow drivers have been out in numbers more than usual. This annoys me more than my early onset of seasonal allergies. I’m not sure why spring fever would make one’s leg weaker so that pushing on the gas pedal requires extra effort. More than a few times I have been stuck behind a person driving ten whole miles under the speed limit. Where I live in the great state of
The roads I usually travel on have a speed limit of twenty five mph. Going slower than this is less than amusing to me and to keep myself calm I talk to myself and double check my speedometer while wondering if it is still considered driving if my foot is off the gas pedal. I reason that excessive wind from the driver’s open windows causes the sensation that they are traveling much faster than they actually are. I have also had to ask myself, “Can one be overly cautious by stopping at every intersection even if one does not have a stop sign?” This combined with the super slow almost idling pace warms me to the idea of everyone having to take a behind the wheel driver’s test every decade. Whoever came up with the saying “patience is a virtue” never got stuck behind these kind of drivers.
In addition to the lack of speed, spring fever seems to confuse drivers as to which way is right and left. Most times, I am appreciative when others use their directional signals when I’m behind them. It is disturbing, though, when the right turn signal is on but the car is in the left turn only lane. Was it a good excuse that the person could barely see over the dashboard? Furthermore, I am confounded when someone leaves their signal on as they continue to drive without making any turns. Doesn’t the metronomic sound get annoying to these drivers? Maybe car manufacturers should consider changing the clicking sound to an obnoxious buzzing noise when the signal is turned on. I will gladly volunteer in aiding the effort by allowing them to record my annoying sounds.
The loss of common sense or, to use a more agreeable term, forgetfulness is a symptom of spring fever I myself have fallen victim to. There is a lot going on this time of year such as losing an hour during Daylight Savings Time. They seriously need to change the name of that because there is no savings when an hour is lost and as any busy parent will tell you, we need to lose one precious hour like we need a lost cell phone. To make matters worse, outings and sports activities are beginning. Fortunately these days, smart phones can easily handle recording schedules and virtual reminders so forgetfulness can be minimized…unless one forgets their phone or still has an old fashioned phone like I have that just calls and texts.
People actually wear looks of “forgetfulness” via the blank stare. This condition carries over from watching too much TV during hibernation and continues into the overwhelming need to begin several outdoor projects. Just this past week when temperatures climbed from the mid 60’s into the mid 70’s, I wore this very look on my face as I was flooded with ideas of all the projects I want to accomplish. While my brain was calculating probabilities as to which project was the most critical and what made sense as there is still chance of frost, I stood in my front doorway gazing out onto the street. As a neighbor passed by and waved, I remained frozen with eyes fixed as if the macadam had more important information to offer but in reality my brain was in double-time. Then as they reached my peripheral vision, I awoke from my calculating trance and went to say a belated hello but was abruptly stopped after body slamming the perfectly clean and nearly invisible glass storm door.
Monday, February 21, 2011
The Best Homefries in NJ
It was a particularly warm summer evening when we were out on our family drive. I’m not sure if Dad knew about this place or just happened upon it. Like most of the other places, Gronsky’s Milk House was small and had a friendly staff but there was an exceptional feature – the South Branch of the
As it turned out, my own family now lives close to where Gronsky’s is located. Ironically, Alan and Nate have the same intense hankering for ice cream as Dad has. Fortunately for them, they have almost walking distance access to the outstanding varietal flavors of creaminess. I wonder if this had any weight in buying a house in the area. After a short while living here, we realized Gronsky’s not only had the ice cream parlor but a little restaurant on the side with a few tables and a breakfast bar. Before Nate was born, Alan and I ate there only a handful of times. Little did I know that I was missing out on the zenith of breakfast dining.
Recently, Alan and Nate had been going to Gronsky’s for father and son breakfast outings. My interest in their frequent goings began to outweigh the desire for my rare peaceful moments alone. I have a test for restaurants I eat at: for lunch or dinner if the bread is average, then I know not to expect too much from the entrée; for breakfast the coffee and the home fries are telling. I went to see if eating at Gronsky’s was worth sacrificing quiet solitude.
When the three of us were settled at our table, I quickly perused the menu for any special dishes but found the usual diner type breakfast foods. I already knew what I was ordering: two eggs over easy with bacon and home fries. Coffee came with the meal. Let’s face it, when ordering a meal like this, one doesn’t count calories or think about how much fat one might be consuming. Although the coffee was strong for my liking, there was no nasty after taste. The meal could be good or bad. I sat anxiously wondering if the home fries were going to be disappointingly dry and without seasoning like so many restaurants make them.
My plate showed up after a second refill of coffee and just by looking at it I knew I struck the jackpot. The eggs were perfect with the yolks not overcooked; the toast had a generous swath of butter on each piece which was harmonious in flavor and texture for sopping up the yolk. Then the pièce de la résistance – home fries cooked to absolute perfection. I’m not sure how they do it but the potatoes are moist, tender and seasoned just right. My pleasure seeking taste buds told my healthy conscience brain with a bright flashing neon sign that what I was eating was perfect and unbelievably delicious. I could only imagine while I chewed each heavenly bite of potato and pepper that Adam and Eve while in the Garden of Eden eating that forbidden fruit briefly felt the same way I was feeling.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
An Elegant Valentine's Day Dinner At Home
I'm sure most couples who have young kids in their lives can relate to the major downshift in the romance department since their early days of wedded bliss. As a busy mom, I find it difficult to plan a romantic dinner out with my very deserving husband, especially on Valentine's Day. Instead of accepting this roadblock with defeat, I use my homegrown culinary skills to tantalize Alan's tastebuds to show my love for him.
If you and your significant other love seafood, here is an elegant, luxurious and surprisingly quick n' easy recipe to cook on a weekday for an at home Valentine's Day dinner or anytime!
Seared Seasoned Scallops with Bacon and Avocado
Ingredients List:
12-14 frozen large scallops, fresh is fine too
2 ripe avocados
6 strips bacon
6 tbsp flour
1 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
juice from half of a lemon
pinch of cayenne pepper, optional
Serves 2 people.
Begin by cooking the bacon in the microwave, following package instructions. Half and remove the pit of the avocados. Remove the flesh from the peel and mash with fork in a bowl. Mix with salt, lemon juice and cayenne pepper if desired. You will want the consistency of guacamole. Set aside.
Thaw the scallops per package instructions. Make sure to remove the tendon on the side. After rinsing, be sure to pat the scallops dry. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of the salt, the paprika and the pepper. Roll the seasoned scallops in a bowl of the flour. Be sure to shake the excess of well. Heat a pan over medium to medium-high heat then add the butter and the olive oil. Let it warm up for a few seconds. Then add the scallops. Let them brown for 5 minutes- do not stir or move them. If the pan is beginning to smoke, lower the heat a bit. After 5 minutes, turn the scallops and cook the other side.
Meanwhile, prepare to plate your creation by mounding the avocado mixture in the center. Next, arrange the bacon over the avocado in a wide "X" with a third piece through the center. When the scallops are finished cooking, place them in a circle around the avocado and bacon with one scallop in the middle. (see above picture)
Serve with a nice white wine and you both will be on your way to remembering those earlier romantic times. Enjoy!
If you and your significant other love seafood, here is an elegant, luxurious and surprisingly quick n' easy recipe to cook on a weekday for an at home Valentine's Day dinner or anytime!
Seared Seasoned Scallops with Bacon and Avocado
12-14 frozen large scallops, fresh is fine too
2 ripe avocados
6 strips bacon
6 tbsp flour
1 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
juice from half of a lemon
pinch of cayenne pepper, optional
Serves 2 people.
Begin by cooking the bacon in the microwave, following package instructions. Half and remove the pit of the avocados. Remove the flesh from the peel and mash with fork in a bowl. Mix with salt, lemon juice and cayenne pepper if desired. You will want the consistency of guacamole. Set aside.
Thaw the scallops per package instructions. Make sure to remove the tendon on the side. After rinsing, be sure to pat the scallops dry. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of the salt, the paprika and the pepper. Roll the seasoned scallops in a bowl of the flour. Be sure to shake the excess of well. Heat a pan over medium to medium-high heat then add the butter and the olive oil. Let it warm up for a few seconds. Then add the scallops. Let them brown for 5 minutes- do not stir or move them. If the pan is beginning to smoke, lower the heat a bit. After 5 minutes, turn the scallops and cook the other side.
Meanwhile, prepare to plate your creation by mounding the avocado mixture in the center. Next, arrange the bacon over the avocado in a wide "X" with a third piece through the center. When the scallops are finished cooking, place them in a circle around the avocado and bacon with one scallop in the middle. (see above picture)
Serve with a nice white wine and you both will be on your way to remembering those earlier romantic times. Enjoy!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Desperately Seeking Groundhogs
One of my favorite natural events during the year is seeing the first groundhog emerge from its underground den. Usually in mid-winter just after New Year’s, Alan and I will make bets when we will see the first groundhog. I know, I know, groundhogs are rodents – mere pests. Who can really say that their little round-shaped ears, small button noses and obscenely bucked teeth are not cute? To my eyes they look like living teddy bears with a killer overbite.
I’m not sure when it first started but it was a few years into dating when Alan and I became hog chasers. If we were driving around and would happen to see one in a meadow or empty lot, we would drive in and park as close as possible without disturbing it. Then I would convince Alan to do the leg work; have him quietly walk up to them and get close as he could before they ran away. Even today we know where groundhogs can be consistently found and look for them as we drive by.
The first time I remember doing this was on a church’s property. The large cathedral loomed in the background, dwarfing the lower meadow area where the groundhog was feeding on grass and weeds. I slowly drove up the driveway and Alan got out. He got within thirty feet before the occupied animal looked up and realized it wasn’t alone. At first, it froze in a pointer-type position. I’m not sure if it was immobilized with fear or of curiosity about this strange “animal” walking towards it. It stayed that way for five seconds and decided it wasn’t curious anymore. It bolted, looking a lot like an undulating shaggy brown carpet, towards the high wild hedge where its burrow probably was.
The laugh we (mostly me) got from the groundhogs' reactions to our meddlesome intrusions become like an addictive high. Unfortunately, we abused our visiting rights too much and after the fourth and fifth time, the groundhogs would immediately run when it heard the car driving up the long driveway. It was time to look for another location to visit.
The best confrontation was at a small office building situated on a lot that was quite steep behind it. We were driving home and saw a very large one on the slope. I pulled into the parking lot expecting the groundhog to take off after hearing the car’s engine but it remained chewing happily away on clover. When Alan got out of the car, I told him not to shut the door in case it scared the groundhog away. It was so close to the wall of brush and climbing vines, although it would have to run uphill to get to it. Alan started to climb the hill, and yet, the groundhog remained in its own world of culinary bliss of clover.
Alan approached it laterally; however the animal had its back to him and couldn't see him. Fifteen feet and closing. I could barely contain the laughter building up inside me that tears began to run down my cheeks. Ten feet and closing! The groundhog’s head bobbed up and down chomping and ripping the clover from its roots. Then Alan froze. The disbelief that he could be closer than ten feet from a wild animal that was unrestrained was unusual and unexpected.
Alan uttered a gentle “hello” which broke the spell of clover smorgasbord for the groundhog. It turned its head quickly, with green stems jutting out of his mouth in all directions, to see a five foot ten human smiling down at him. We could almost see the groundhog take assessment of his situation; calculating the distance between itself and the safety of the brush while considering its own speed going up the steep slope to get there. It made a move directly for the brush but the slope was too challenging and its movements were as if in slow motion. Alan made a slight move to block it from getting away. The groundhog stopped, recalculated and attempted a new path – only a few inches from the first one. At this point, Alan felt bad for the poor animal and let him pass.
When Alan got back to the car, I needed a few minutes to recover from the abdominal pain I was experiencing from laughing so hard. It may not sound funny to you but to have seen it in person is a different story. In fact, this moment we shared with that groundhog without getting it recorded goes in my book as a gigantic regret. I am very thankful, though, that something as simple as a mere rodent could give us that much happiness and laughter.
I’m not sure when it first started but it was a few years into dating when Alan and I became hog chasers. If we were driving around and would happen to see one in a meadow or empty lot, we would drive in and park as close as possible without disturbing it. Then I would convince Alan to do the leg work; have him quietly walk up to them and get close as he could before they ran away. Even today we know where groundhogs can be consistently found and look for them as we drive by.
The first time I remember doing this was on a church’s property. The large cathedral loomed in the background, dwarfing the lower meadow area where the groundhog was feeding on grass and weeds. I slowly drove up the driveway and Alan got out. He got within thirty feet before the occupied animal looked up and realized it wasn’t alone. At first, it froze in a pointer-type position. I’m not sure if it was immobilized with fear or of curiosity about this strange “animal” walking towards it. It stayed that way for five seconds and decided it wasn’t curious anymore. It bolted, looking a lot like an undulating shaggy brown carpet, towards the high wild hedge where its burrow probably was.
The laugh we (mostly me) got from the groundhogs' reactions to our meddlesome intrusions become like an addictive high. Unfortunately, we abused our visiting rights too much and after the fourth and fifth time, the groundhogs would immediately run when it heard the car driving up the long driveway. It was time to look for another location to visit.
The best confrontation was at a small office building situated on a lot that was quite steep behind it. We were driving home and saw a very large one on the slope. I pulled into the parking lot expecting the groundhog to take off after hearing the car’s engine but it remained chewing happily away on clover. When Alan got out of the car, I told him not to shut the door in case it scared the groundhog away. It was so close to the wall of brush and climbing vines, although it would have to run uphill to get to it. Alan started to climb the hill, and yet, the groundhog remained in its own world of culinary bliss of clover.
Alan approached it laterally; however the animal had its back to him and couldn't see him. Fifteen feet and closing. I could barely contain the laughter building up inside me that tears began to run down my cheeks. Ten feet and closing! The groundhog’s head bobbed up and down chomping and ripping the clover from its roots. Then Alan froze. The disbelief that he could be closer than ten feet from a wild animal that was unrestrained was unusual and unexpected.
Alan uttered a gentle “hello” which broke the spell of clover smorgasbord for the groundhog. It turned its head quickly, with green stems jutting out of his mouth in all directions, to see a five foot ten human smiling down at him. We could almost see the groundhog take assessment of his situation; calculating the distance between itself and the safety of the brush while considering its own speed going up the steep slope to get there. It made a move directly for the brush but the slope was too challenging and its movements were as if in slow motion. Alan made a slight move to block it from getting away. The groundhog stopped, recalculated and attempted a new path – only a few inches from the first one. At this point, Alan felt bad for the poor animal and let him pass.
When Alan got back to the car, I needed a few minutes to recover from the abdominal pain I was experiencing from laughing so hard. It may not sound funny to you but to have seen it in person is a different story. In fact, this moment we shared with that groundhog without getting it recorded goes in my book as a gigantic regret. I am very thankful, though, that something as simple as a mere rodent could give us that much happiness and laughter.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
A Living Room Picnic
This winter has been especially frigid. I don’t know if it is because I’m getting older but I feel the cold more keenly than ever. Alan turns into a human popsicle once winter sets in. Our kitchen also experiences changes during the winter season. As if over-wrought with envy, it tries to mimic the outdoors by treating us with it’s version of winter temperatures. In the ten years that we’ve lived in this house, every winter we complain how cold the kitchen is and retreat to the warmth of the living room under the glow of the tv.
After Nate was born, our routine was switched up a bit once he was old enough to sit in a high chair. I’m not sure if it was the excitement of watching our baby begin to eat solid foods or the extra fifteen pounds gained during pregnancy that insulated me, but I didn’t feel the cold as much. Somewhere in my vague memory, Alan was standing by wearing several layers of shirts and sweaters while shivering and admiring the purple color of his nail beds.
In the past three years of eating dinners in the kitchen, Alan and I had brief discussions as to how to make the room warmer. The first attempt was to seal the large crack between the back door and the door jam with foam insulation. At first this helped a little but the arctic chill remained. Then I noticed the blast of cold air coming through the bathroom vent in the ceiling. Alan disconnected the power to the vent and stuffed it with insulation since the shower in that bathroom is used only by visiting guests who stay over. Unfortunately, that didn’t help much either.
Befuddled by this mystery, we sat in cold that should not have been in our house that we spent good money to keep warm. I tried to take the positive from this frustrating situation. My thought was with all the calories I was burning from shivering, I could eat calorie laded food like cookies, cake and even ice cream. One evening after a week of high temperatures in the 20’s, Alan and I agreed that it was just too cold to eat dinner in the kitchen. I turned to Nate and asked, “How ‘bout a picnic in the living room?” The joy on my little boy’s face could not have been greater if I gave him the keys to a toy store and said it was all his. With pizza on our plates and our attention turned to the movie that Nate picked out, Toy Story 2, we ate in comfort and full contentment.
Then one day as I was doing chores and putting dishes away, I felt a sharpness of cold at my hand. I put my hand near a small space between the wall and the cabinets. I discovered the secret entrance where the cold was sneaking its way in. I had some of the foam strip insulation left over from the door and used that to block the air from coming in. It was almost like magic and the kitchen began to warm up. When Alan got home from work, I exuded pride as I led him to the kitchen and showed him my handiwork. I couldn’t have been more proud when he said he noticed a difference in the temperature.
Although it is warmer in the kitchen, it is relative to the previous conditions. The fact that we have to completely remodel the kitchen is a moot point. It is still cold in there when the outside temperature is below 30 degrees. When that happens, there is no argument all around when I announce, “Picnic in the living room!”
After Nate was born, our routine was switched up a bit once he was old enough to sit in a high chair. I’m not sure if it was the excitement of watching our baby begin to eat solid foods or the extra fifteen pounds gained during pregnancy that insulated me, but I didn’t feel the cold as much. Somewhere in my vague memory, Alan was standing by wearing several layers of shirts and sweaters while shivering and admiring the purple color of his nail beds.
In the past three years of eating dinners in the kitchen, Alan and I had brief discussions as to how to make the room warmer. The first attempt was to seal the large crack between the back door and the door jam with foam insulation. At first this helped a little but the arctic chill remained. Then I noticed the blast of cold air coming through the bathroom vent in the ceiling. Alan disconnected the power to the vent and stuffed it with insulation since the shower in that bathroom is used only by visiting guests who stay over. Unfortunately, that didn’t help much either.
Befuddled by this mystery, we sat in cold that should not have been in our house that we spent good money to keep warm. I tried to take the positive from this frustrating situation. My thought was with all the calories I was burning from shivering, I could eat calorie laded food like cookies, cake and even ice cream. One evening after a week of high temperatures in the 20’s, Alan and I agreed that it was just too cold to eat dinner in the kitchen. I turned to Nate and asked, “How ‘bout a picnic in the living room?” The joy on my little boy’s face could not have been greater if I gave him the keys to a toy store and said it was all his. With pizza on our plates and our attention turned to the movie that Nate picked out, Toy Story 2, we ate in comfort and full contentment.
Then one day as I was doing chores and putting dishes away, I felt a sharpness of cold at my hand. I put my hand near a small space between the wall and the cabinets. I discovered the secret entrance where the cold was sneaking its way in. I had some of the foam strip insulation left over from the door and used that to block the air from coming in. It was almost like magic and the kitchen began to warm up. When Alan got home from work, I exuded pride as I led him to the kitchen and showed him my handiwork. I couldn’t have been more proud when he said he noticed a difference in the temperature.
Although it is warmer in the kitchen, it is relative to the previous conditions. The fact that we have to completely remodel the kitchen is a moot point. It is still cold in there when the outside temperature is below 30 degrees. When that happens, there is no argument all around when I announce, “Picnic in the living room!”
Thursday, January 6, 2011
A Few Of My Favorite Things
Just like Julie Andrews sang in the movie "The Sound of Music", when I'm feeling sad I think of my favorite things. Let me preface that the things I'm listing here are material which means they only bring me temporary happiness. True happiness comes from within but I'm digressing. I'll tantalize you with my beliefs on that later. When the doldrums of winter begin to overwhelm my psyche, I simply reach for these little things and then I don't feel so bad. So here is my list of favorite things, in no particular order:
Speaking of moisturizing my two favorite moisturizers are Avon Skin So Soft & Sensual Replenishing Hand Cream and Gold Bond Restoring CoQ-10 Lotion. One reason why I dislike moisturizing my skin is the greasy feeling I get from most lotions and creams. Avon's hand cream will remedy those parched hands without the greasiness. Around Christmas time, they come in convenient 1.5 fl oz tubes and are super cheap. If you don't have an Avon representative, click HERE.
If my whole body feels dry, I don't realize it right away but my grouchiness for no apparent reason is usually the signal. Also, Alan looks at me as if I were Mr. Hyde. Gold Bond Restoring CoQ-10 lotion provides immediate relief; it's like putting on a skin of moisturizer. This stuff is the real deal and won't fade even after a full twenty four hours! It stays on me until I shower it off the following morning. I also like that it has a nice clean scent. http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid30830.aspx
Blistex Lip Medex has been a staple for years in healing my Angelina Jolie-esque lips. The dry winter air takes all the moisture out of my lips. They feel more like Brillo pads - not good for when I want to snuggle and get kisses from Alan. As soon as I apply the balm, my lips change from dish scrubbers to soothing lovers. Ooo la la! http://www.blistex.com/products/lip-medex
Speaking of moisturizing my two favorite moisturizers are Avon Skin So Soft & Sensual Replenishing Hand Cream and Gold Bond Restoring CoQ-10 Lotion. One reason why I dislike moisturizing my skin is the greasy feeling I get from most lotions and creams. Avon's hand cream will remedy those parched hands without the greasiness. Around Christmas time, they come in convenient 1.5 fl oz tubes and are super cheap. If you don't have an Avon representative, click HERE.
If my whole body feels dry, I don't realize it right away but my grouchiness for no apparent reason is usually the signal. Also, Alan looks at me as if I were Mr. Hyde. Gold Bond Restoring CoQ-10 lotion provides immediate relief; it's like putting on a skin of moisturizer. This stuff is the real deal and won't fade even after a full twenty four hours! It stays on me until I shower it off the following morning. I also like that it has a nice clean scent. http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid30830.aspx
At the end of a long day, I would love nothing more than to indulge in an hour long spa treatment. Unfortunately, that is not my reality but I may have found something on a much smaller, more affordable scale. Physicians Formula Organic wear Eye Makeup Remover Pads are terrific at removing stubborn mascara without drying out my skin. They come pre-soaked in a resealable packet which makes them easy to use and convenient. The most amazing feature about these little guys is the amazing lavendar scent aromatherapy. Sometimes during the day I open the packet just to take a whiff for a little pick-me-up. Hey, it's legal! http://www.physiciansformula.com/en-us/productdetail/organic-wear-product/07222.html
I drink hot tea almost every hour of the day during winter. As well as keeping my hand warm wrapped around the steaming mug, it's good hydration and I also get exercise by walking to the bathroom several times a day. I know, TMI. In any case, I like to drink green or white tea as it's beneficial to my health. Stash's Fusion Green & White Tea is the best I have tasted so far. Unlike some green teas that leave a sharp flavor on my tongue, Stash's tea is smooth and mild. http://www.amazon.com/Stash-Fusion-Green-White-Teabags/dp/B002L797Q8
That concludes my little list. As Alan knows and appreciates, I am a low maintenance kind of a girl. Sure I can list my favorite things that are non-beauty products and there are several. I shared these with you so that you can try them and see if they become some of your favorites. Perhaps I should end by saying I am very thankful for what I have in life. I am not materially wealthy but the portion given to me serves me well.
Websites given are for product information only. Websites given may not be the least expensive place to purchase the products I mentioned.
I drink hot tea almost every hour of the day during winter. As well as keeping my hand warm wrapped around the steaming mug, it's good hydration and I also get exercise by walking to the bathroom several times a day. I know, TMI. In any case, I like to drink green or white tea as it's beneficial to my health. Stash's Fusion Green & White Tea is the best I have tasted so far. Unlike some green teas that leave a sharp flavor on my tongue, Stash's tea is smooth and mild. http://www.amazon.com/Stash-Fusion-Green-White-Teabags/dp/B002L797Q8
That concludes my little list. As Alan knows and appreciates, I am a low maintenance kind of a girl. Sure I can list my favorite things that are non-beauty products and there are several. I shared these with you so that you can try them and see if they become some of your favorites. Perhaps I should end by saying I am very thankful for what I have in life. I am not materially wealthy but the portion given to me serves me well.
Websites given are for product information only. Websites given may not be the least expensive place to purchase the products I mentioned.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Resolution, More Like Revolution
Happy New Year and welcome, 2011! Even though Christmas and New Year's can make one's schedule quite full and hectic, I am grateful they are celebrated in winter. I am not one who likes cold weather (aka anything below 70 degrees F) and the lack of greenery outside is a huge downer. Christmas, although overly commercial, is my favorite holiday. What's not to like? We celebrate the birth of a baby, the music is awesome and the decorations are by far the best of any other holiday. All the yummy, tummy stretching vittles may even supersede the decorations. The jury is still out on that one for me. I also like the classic Christmas shows like Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer and A Charlie Brown Christmas. Last but not least, I have cause to spend time with loved ones.
But all that is over now and I don't think I'm alone in feeling a sharp drop from riding the wave of that high. For me, January is not only about taking time and thinking about what I will accomplish in the future eleven months but considering what I've learned from the past twelve months as well.
The most important thing I learned last year was that having love for others is the highest, most honorable characteristic we humans can possess. I'm not talking about physical attraction. The kind I mean is like the love a parent has for their child. When I studied the book of John in the Bible, I learned even parental love pales in comparison to the love that Jesus has for us. Although I have heard this many times throughout my life, I did not fully understand or experience it until now because I carried pride for myself in the form of doing whatever I wanted to do. Then a revolution began stirring within; my pride versus God's plan for me.
Once my heart was opened after humbling and deeply convicting experiences, I delved into the only book I know to be consistently true and is the only life manual that will truly help – the Bible. The truths in it have made me a changed person from the inside out; more than any flimsy New Year's resolution could do. Once the truth is known, it is difficult to unknow it.
When the dignitaries in Jesus’ day asked him what the greatest commandment was, Jesus replied, “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:34-40) I was very surprised to learn that love surpasses everything!
I don't think I'm a perfect person or that I'm better than anyone else. I wonder, though, if those who know me well see the change that has taken place. Do they notice that it takes a little longer for me to get angry, that I refrain from participating in gossip and that I do not want to judge others? Admittedly, I slip and catch myself doing these things but as I said, I'm not perfect.
That is my heart revolution that has turned into a resolution going forward in my life. I can never be a perfect loving person at all times but I can always look to Christ as a perfect example by reading His word. That is a resolution I can keep. Quite frankly, it’s much more difficult for me to make excuses for not reading as opposed to finding time to workout.
But all that is over now and I don't think I'm alone in feeling a sharp drop from riding the wave of that high. For me, January is not only about taking time and thinking about what I will accomplish in the future eleven months but considering what I've learned from the past twelve months as well.
The most important thing I learned last year was that having love for others is the highest, most honorable characteristic we humans can possess. I'm not talking about physical attraction. The kind I mean is like the love a parent has for their child. When I studied the book of John in the Bible, I learned even parental love pales in comparison to the love that Jesus has for us. Although I have heard this many times throughout my life, I did not fully understand or experience it until now because I carried pride for myself in the form of doing whatever I wanted to do. Then a revolution began stirring within; my pride versus God's plan for me.
Once my heart was opened after humbling and deeply convicting experiences, I delved into the only book I know to be consistently true and is the only life manual that will truly help – the Bible. The truths in it have made me a changed person from the inside out; more than any flimsy New Year's resolution could do. Once the truth is known, it is difficult to unknow it.
When the dignitaries in Jesus’ day asked him what the greatest commandment was, Jesus replied, “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:34-40) I was very surprised to learn that love surpasses everything!
I don't think I'm a perfect person or that I'm better than anyone else. I wonder, though, if those who know me well see the change that has taken place. Do they notice that it takes a little longer for me to get angry, that I refrain from participating in gossip and that I do not want to judge others? Admittedly, I slip and catch myself doing these things but as I said, I'm not perfect.
That is my heart revolution that has turned into a resolution going forward in my life. I can never be a perfect loving person at all times but I can always look to Christ as a perfect example by reading His word. That is a resolution I can keep. Quite frankly, it’s much more difficult for me to make excuses for not reading as opposed to finding time to workout.
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