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I don't feel like working. I just want to browse creative and inspirational websites hoping I'll get hit with the million-dollar business idea. This is nothing new.
The Zumba dance/fitness class I'm trying tomorrow. I'm really excited about it.
The craft project I have planned with the girls for their Valentine's cards. I think I'm more excited to make it than they are. This is also nothing new.
Should I take the Ashtanga yoga class Sunday morning by myself? Without a friend for moral support? Or just have a lazy morning?
How soon can I sneak out of work?
Curling up in front of the fireplace with a fat glass of red wine. This? Nothing new.
Yeah, I'm a little distracted this Friday.
Bring your own Game
And I'm not talking about a board game.
And shake it's neck and head to disorient it. But, be careful not to snap it's fragile little neck or you'll have one less bird to hunt. Then, the dizzy bird gets tucked into a pile of grass and hay and whatnot, all cozy and warm and safe. Remember to let the hunting dogs out after you've hidden the birds. And, spread the birds out all over the place so it takes a while for the dogs to find them. When the dogs find them (unless a fox or hawk gets to one first), scare them out of their cozy little nook, they go flying to freedom only to be shot at. And that's exactly how it's done.
I learned a little something about hunting birds, or fowl, the other day. Not, why it's necessary or how it's good for the earth. Instead, I learned that you bring your own. That's right. You buy your gamebirds from a farm (raised to be killed) and bring them with you to the hunting club to release them, then shoot at them. There's something ridiculously funny (and horrifying!) about this. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bird) just got a whole new meaning.
Aside from that, I couldn't figure out how the hunting part works. If you release them, then where does the "hunting" part come into play? So I asked. This is where it gets even more ridiculous. By the way, this is also a BYOD, bring your own dog, event.
You take your bird, a chukar for instance, like this pretty little thing.
And shake it's neck and head to disorient it. But, be careful not to snap it's fragile little neck or you'll have one less bird to hunt. Then, the dizzy bird gets tucked into a pile of grass and hay and whatnot, all cozy and warm and safe. Remember to let the hunting dogs out after you've hidden the birds. And, spread the birds out all over the place so it takes a while for the dogs to find them. When the dogs find them (unless a fox or hawk gets to one first), scare them out of their cozy little nook, they go flying to freedom only to be shot at. And that's exactly how it's done.And, by the way, this is the result of sprawl.
Quiet time is loud
So the husband has been out of town since Sunday night.
Without the company of my husband, I have no idea when our tv shows are on. In fact, I couldn't even care less, except if it was Lost, but other than that I just don't care. Last night, he called and reminded me that The Bachelor was on. Great, now that I know, I have to put it on. And I was so glad that I did. Really, the last 20 minutes are all you need to watch. That's the train wreck. The bachelor and his connundrum, whittling down to the potential wives. What was so funny about last night was that he had two roses and three girls left, except that he only wanted to give one rose. The other girl wasn't even worth keeping around for another go. How's that for your self-esteem? But, he takes it all so seriously that he has to consult the host, who can barely suppress a smile. It's just all so pathetic. I love it!
Anyway, normally, I love having some quiet, alone evening time. I can relax. Turn off the tv. Read. Knit. Whatever. But the last two nights have been eerily quiet. Every little noise in the house woke me up. I heard the water in the radiator dripping. I heard the girls breathing on the floor below me. And, what made things worse, when I went to check on Kyra, I thought I heard some scuffling near her closet. Fairies, perhaps? I think not. So I haven't been able to sleep and I've been too tired to workout in the morning, which in turn makes me feel guilty. None of this is good. But, the husband is back tonight. And two nights of alone time have gone to waste. Meh.
Without the company of my husband, I have no idea when our tv shows are on. In fact, I couldn't even care less, except if it was Lost, but other than that I just don't care. Last night, he called and reminded me that The Bachelor was on. Great, now that I know, I have to put it on. And I was so glad that I did. Really, the last 20 minutes are all you need to watch. That's the train wreck. The bachelor and his connundrum, whittling down to the potential wives. What was so funny about last night was that he had two roses and three girls left, except that he only wanted to give one rose. The other girl wasn't even worth keeping around for another go. How's that for your self-esteem? But, he takes it all so seriously that he has to consult the host, who can barely suppress a smile. It's just all so pathetic. I love it!
Anyway, normally, I love having some quiet, alone evening time. I can relax. Turn off the tv. Read. Knit. Whatever. But the last two nights have been eerily quiet. Every little noise in the house woke me up. I heard the water in the radiator dripping. I heard the girls breathing on the floor below me. And, what made things worse, when I went to check on Kyra, I thought I heard some scuffling near her closet. Fairies, perhaps? I think not. So I haven't been able to sleep and I've been too tired to workout in the morning, which in turn makes me feel guilty. None of this is good. But, the husband is back tonight. And two nights of alone time have gone to waste. Meh.
Sharing
Yesterday, this happened to me approximately 7 minutes after I left my house.
I was not happy. But I figured it would dry, so I went to work anyway.
Just thought I would share.
I was not happy. But I figured it would dry, so I went to work anyway.Just thought I would share.
Trying to get back on the wagon
I fell off the blogging wagon. Mostly because my feelings have been deeply hurt and I'm finding myself very annoyed by things that shouldn't be annoying. Suffice it to say, I'm having a hard time focusing, but I'm working through it.
In my new quest for inner peace, happiness and with a dose of spirituality, I've downloaded some meditation podcasts, have begun listening to new age music (it's great for morning time) and started a yoga class, which I am loving. I'm not going crunchy, just looking for some calmness in my mind and a little positive energy.
This weekend I didn't plan every hour to be productive. In fact, the only thing I accomplished was some laundry, grocery shopping and working out. I even sat down in the middle of the day and read for half an hour without feeling guilty. The unpainted trim in my partially painted hallway went neglected.
And I am okay with that.
In my new quest for inner peace, happiness and with a dose of spirituality, I've downloaded some meditation podcasts, have begun listening to new age music (it's great for morning time) and started a yoga class, which I am loving. I'm not going crunchy, just looking for some calmness in my mind and a little positive energy.
This weekend I didn't plan every hour to be productive. In fact, the only thing I accomplished was some laundry, grocery shopping and working out. I even sat down in the middle of the day and read for half an hour without feeling guilty. The unpainted trim in my partially painted hallway went neglected.
And I am okay with that.
Coupon Clippers's Heaven
Don't pay more for something when you don't have to. Before you hit the grocery store, or drug store, hit this websites for printable coupons.
Go to Coupons.com
Go to RedPlum.com
Go to Eat Better America
Bookmark them and check often. Seriously, why would you NOT use coupons?
Go to Coupons.com
Go to RedPlum.com
Go to Eat Better America
Bookmark them and check often. Seriously, why would you NOT use coupons?
Should I be offended?
Categories:
Work
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friends have something to say...
Many people I work with put in a lot of hours. They're mostly single, in their twenties. I did it then too. My life was my work. Now, I'm just not that into my work anymore. I have other interests, other obligations, other places I'd rather be. My work is my day job.
But, it didn't occur to me until many hours later after a younger, single male co-worker said to me, "I wish I had kids," that maybe I should be offended. When he mentioned how he worked until 11:30 the night before and was in at 8 the next morning, I commented by saying, "I haven't put those hours in in a long time." The reason I'm not sure if I should be offended is because he know's nothing of my schedule. He seemed to be saying it because he wasn't happy about working that long, and by having kids and a family then he would have a legitimate reason to NOT put those hours in. I understand. You can't argue with having family obligations. What real obligations do you have when you're single? You have to get to the nearest happy hour?
If there's ever been a time when I need to leave work during a tight deadline, I'm online as soon as I get home. That's the luxury of being a writer. I'm always available. Well, almost always.
But, it didn't occur to me until many hours later after a younger, single male co-worker said to me, "I wish I had kids," that maybe I should be offended. When he mentioned how he worked until 11:30 the night before and was in at 8 the next morning, I commented by saying, "I haven't put those hours in in a long time." The reason I'm not sure if I should be offended is because he know's nothing of my schedule. He seemed to be saying it because he wasn't happy about working that long, and by having kids and a family then he would have a legitimate reason to NOT put those hours in. I understand. You can't argue with having family obligations. What real obligations do you have when you're single? You have to get to the nearest happy hour?
If there's ever been a time when I need to leave work during a tight deadline, I'm online as soon as I get home. That's the luxury of being a writer. I'm always available. Well, almost always.
Slimming down
It's Day One of the new workout/weight loss program. Day 1 of 1/11. That's a lot of 1s. Doesn't that usually mean evil things? Like 666?
Anyway, I've begun. Follow my pain, or join me over at The Thinning Chronicles. There, if you look back, you'll see for yourself how many times I've started and stopped this exercise in futility. I think it's something like 333. Boy, I need an attitude adjustment.
Off to shed 1o lbs ... yay... this is sooo fun!
Anyway, I've begun. Follow my pain, or join me over at The Thinning Chronicles. There, if you look back, you'll see for yourself how many times I've started and stopped this exercise in futility. I think it's something like 333. Boy, I need an attitude adjustment.
Off to shed 1o lbs ... yay... this is sooo fun!
Friday Photos with my iPhone
I love the snow. I love when it sticks to the branches and covers the grass and the road. It's like a winter wonderland. And the quiet? It's so quiet and peaceful. So, anyway, I thought I would share some photos today. I took this with my iPhone as I was waiting for the train this morning. Like well known photographer Chase Jarvis says, "The best camera is the one that's with you." Use what you have, people. It works.
I love this style. It's called tilt shift. You change the depth of focus dramatically and increase the contrast making everything look miniature. It's so much fun to play with. And done with a simple filter.
This is Kyra getting blinded on a bright snowy day. Earlier this day, I burnt the crap out of nearly all my Christmas cookies, so I decided in my infinite baking wisdom to put wax paper on the cookie sheets since just the bottoms were burned. The rays are made visible from the smoke that poured out of my oven from the burning wax paper. (Mom, I know you're dying to comment here.) I'll be investing in new cookie sheets soon. The new oven will have to wait. But makes for a great photo effect, don't you think?
I love this style. It's called tilt shift. You change the depth of focus dramatically and increase the contrast making everything look miniature. It's so much fun to play with. And done with a simple filter.
This is Kyra getting blinded on a bright snowy day. Earlier this day, I burnt the crap out of nearly all my Christmas cookies, so I decided in my infinite baking wisdom to put wax paper on the cookie sheets since just the bottoms were burned. The rays are made visible from the smoke that poured out of my oven from the burning wax paper. (Mom, I know you're dying to comment here.) I'll be investing in new cookie sheets soon. The new oven will have to wait. But makes for a great photo effect, don't you think?
Ideas In the Shower
Most often my best ideas happen in the shower. Pretty common for many people I'm sure. The problem is to remember them when you get out of the shower. It's amazing how quick they can disappear. But, now you can write them down on waterproof notepads!
Can we please add this to my list of things I MUST have now?
Can we please add this to my list of things I MUST have now?
Potty Talk
Categories:
TMI
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friends have something to say...
I realized something yesterday. I despise public restrooms. Really, there's nothing to like about them. As soon as you walk in to one, you feel dirty. And it doesn't matter how clean it is. There's just something about a room full of toilets where people, well you know, that seems not clean. Germy, even.
Public bathrooms, like really public -- rest stop public -- are simply unapproachable. There are no normal people that stop in a rest stop bathroom. None. Airport bathrooms, mall bathrooms? Have you seen the people that use these? Forget it! Office bathrooms aren't so bad, except when you're peeing next to your boss. Now that is a level of intimacy I can do without. And if you're going to kick it up a notch to #2? It just shouldn't happen at the office. I found myself between two people doing THAT yesterday. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. Thus the inspiration for this post.
If I were to design office space bathrooms, toilets would have have their own separate room with a full length door, and sound proof walls.
Public bathrooms, like really public -- rest stop public -- are simply unapproachable. There are no normal people that stop in a rest stop bathroom. None. Airport bathrooms, mall bathrooms? Have you seen the people that use these? Forget it! Office bathrooms aren't so bad, except when you're peeing next to your boss. Now that is a level of intimacy I can do without. And if you're going to kick it up a notch to #2? It just shouldn't happen at the office. I found myself between two people doing THAT yesterday. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. Thus the inspiration for this post.
If I were to design office space bathrooms, toilets would have have their own separate room with a full length door, and sound proof walls.
Let's get skinny!
People, the damage is done. It was good. But now it's time to get my shit together. The treadmill has arrived. The plan is in place. Join me.
Free Soup For You
It's cold. And the only way to really get warm - aside from a scaulding shower - is to eat soup. I loooooovve soup in the winter. I could live on soup in the winter. In front of the fire. With some wine. And my Snuggie. Mmmmm.
So, I got this free magazine of soup recipes. Go ahead. You know you want it. Plenty of Soup fo' You! said in the Soup Nazi voice from Seinfeld, with a slight edit on the exclamation.
So, I got this free magazine of soup recipes. Go ahead. You know you want it. Plenty of Soup fo' You! said in the Soup Nazi voice from Seinfeld, with a slight edit on the exclamation.
Drat - my day has been foiled
How often do things go as planned? Especially when you're trying to be totally and completely selfish? Rarely, in my case, as today was supposed to be my day home alone. I'm off from work and the girls are back at school. Oh, the peace and quiet I was planning to enjoy....
Except Ella's strep throat decided to make a return visit from 12 days ago and she's home with me. I spent the better part of the morning at the doctor's office so they could confirm what I already knew. Which means there's a good chance Kyra has it with no symptoms and they are reinfecting each other. No school until Wednesday. After nearly two weeks on break, how's that for timing? Of course, straight to the pharmacy I went for the medication that they didn't have but could order for pick up tomorrow. That would mean no school until Thursday? I think not. No thanks to the helpful pharmacist (who has fallen short before), our peds called around and found it at my now new pharmacy.
But, while Ella watched the same movie twice (her choice), I did manage to get one project closer to being finished. The photos have been printed and are now in frames, waiting to be hung.
Well, there's always next weekend.
Except Ella's strep throat decided to make a return visit from 12 days ago and she's home with me. I spent the better part of the morning at the doctor's office so they could confirm what I already knew. Which means there's a good chance Kyra has it with no symptoms and they are reinfecting each other. No school until Wednesday. After nearly two weeks on break, how's that for timing? Of course, straight to the pharmacy I went for the medication that they didn't have but could order for pick up tomorrow. That would mean no school until Thursday? I think not. No thanks to the helpful pharmacist (who has fallen short before), our peds called around and found it at my now new pharmacy.
But, while Ella watched the same movie twice (her choice), I did manage to get one project closer to being finished. The photos have been printed and are now in frames, waiting to be hung.
Well, there's always next weekend.
Happy New Year
Someone said a long New Year's Eve ago - how you bring in the New Year is how you spend it. So, if a relatively uneventful, sober-ish evening with friends is how I spend 2010, than I'm okay with that.
I've been off from work since Christmas Eve and have yet to get tired of lazy mornings. In fact, I get annoyed with any commitments or reasons to leave the house. I just want to be. I have a list of projects which I barely put a dent into, but little ones like printing and framing photos, hanging shelves, etc. I would loved to have painted my third floor hallway, organized our office and basement and set up my candle workshop. But, I'm down to three days. (I have off on Monday too!). I haven't exercised. I've been enjoying wine nightly. And the diet has not been ideal. I guess there's something good about having a routine. The ironic thing about this massive waste of time is that I hate wasting time. On the weekends, I need to have a project. I need to be productive. I need to get things done. And here with a ton o' time, I've done a lot of nothing. Oh well.
I think I set a record for the least amount of posts in one month for December. I know a (very) few of you keep checking in to see what's new. I thought I would sort of "back post" from some projects and other such things. But, now they just don't seem all that exciting to me. So, I'll be starting fresh this year. Also, I'll be writing for Examiner.com as their new Philadelphia Working Moms Examiner so look for those posts. And click on them. I'm still reading all the small print, but I get credit for clicks or views or something like that. So share with friends.
I hope everyone has a very happy and healthy fresh start to a new year. Oh, and new year's resolutions - my New Year's Resolution is to take a class of something I truly enjoy. So, right now I'm signing up for a yoga class with a friend. I hope you've picked something you want to do MORE of, a truly realistic goal you are excited to embrace (not a deprivation). And please let me know what it is. I love inspiration.
Cheers to a new year!
I've been off from work since Christmas Eve and have yet to get tired of lazy mornings. In fact, I get annoyed with any commitments or reasons to leave the house. I just want to be. I have a list of projects which I barely put a dent into, but little ones like printing and framing photos, hanging shelves, etc. I would loved to have painted my third floor hallway, organized our office and basement and set up my candle workshop. But, I'm down to three days. (I have off on Monday too!). I haven't exercised. I've been enjoying wine nightly. And the diet has not been ideal. I guess there's something good about having a routine. The ironic thing about this massive waste of time is that I hate wasting time. On the weekends, I need to have a project. I need to be productive. I need to get things done. And here with a ton o' time, I've done a lot of nothing. Oh well.
I think I set a record for the least amount of posts in one month for December. I know a (very) few of you keep checking in to see what's new. I thought I would sort of "back post" from some projects and other such things. But, now they just don't seem all that exciting to me. So, I'll be starting fresh this year. Also, I'll be writing for Examiner.com as their new Philadelphia Working Moms Examiner so look for those posts. And click on them. I'm still reading all the small print, but I get credit for clicks or views or something like that. So share with friends.
I hope everyone has a very happy and healthy fresh start to a new year. Oh, and new year's resolutions - my New Year's Resolution is to take a class of something I truly enjoy. So, right now I'm signing up for a yoga class with a friend. I hope you've picked something you want to do MORE of, a truly realistic goal you are excited to embrace (not a deprivation). And please let me know what it is. I love inspiration.
Cheers to a new year!
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