Those Crazy Beans

ORB

2011-12-10T23:29:00.000-07:00

The Mister informed me that there is a saying--something about a man who has a hammer thinks that everything he sees is a nail...

I've never actually heard that saying before, and I'm sure I just did it a terrible injustice... But, whatever...

The Mister proceeded to tell me that I have my very own version of a hammer. And I have to admit that he may be right!

I've recently become acquainted with the merits of Oil Rubbed Bronze spray paint. I can't believe the transformation that a little ORB can achieve! It can update, improve, camouflage, transform and create... Truly miraculous! But I do concede that maybe I am finding a little too much love in a bottle. I actually told my dad not to stand in my entryway too long unless he wanted to be bronzed... He thought I was kidding!

So, here are some examples of what I can do (have done) with my little bit of magic in a can.

First off, our new home came with brushed nickle everything. And, while it's fine for some styles, it's not my style. So--I bronzed all my light fixtures.

That went so well that I moved onto the bathroom. Did you know you can create your own ORB Dixie Cup dispenser? Yep, you can! Here's proof!

I've also bronzed some ugly, old, wooden candle sticks, and I made a beautiful ORB lamp out of a really grungy brass lamp. Oh, the possibilities! ORB, I love you!

Darth Vader is a Backseat Driver

2011-10-06T09:19:00.000-06:00

Remember when I had a goblin under my seat in the car? Actually, I think it turned out to be Chucky... Anyway, yesterday I was driving down the street and heard woozsh-vvvwmmm...

For those of you less versed in Star Wars, that is sound of a Lightsaber. So I drove 50 miles (at least) accompanied by woozsh-vvvwmmm, and then the fun really began! Darth Vader started speaking from the back seat of the car!

Luckily, Darth seemed pretty distracted by the saber duel going on behind me. Because if he'd started shouting,

Hey, let's stop at McDonald's so I can get a Star Wars toy in my Happy Meal!

Well, then I'd have had to pull over right there to put an end to things.

Fall Cooking

2011-10-03T21:47:00.000-06:00

It must actually be autumn. My drive to work is growing less green by the day, and it is rapidly increasing in orange foliage. I actually pulled off to the side of the road last week to snap a quick picture. I couldn't believe the change from one day to the next!

It's been so mild and nice... I almost forgot that fall was on its way in. But it's sprinkling tonight, and the temperature is supposed to drop. However, the true telltale sign that summer is over is that I've started cooking again.

There is something about the cool weather that brings out the chef and baker in me. I think my family was shocked that we didn't have to order pizza or pick up burgers. I hope it was a pleasant change for them. I know I enjoyed the afternoon at home preparing our dinner!

I only hope I can keep it up! I'd love to do more baking this year, now that I'm not fighting altitude. I just found a recipe for pumpkin cinnamon rolls... I think that's going to be my very next effort!

Sleep

2011-10-03T01:18:00.002-06:00

Sleep is one of those things I usually take for granted. Jammies, a good book, maybe a little Criminal Minds... And then it's lights out! But lately? Not so much.

My new schedule is something like this... Jammies, read a book, flip through a magazine, watch Netflix, Skype with European friends, climb back in bed, stare at the ceiling, realize it's 3am...

Not the best schedule for an alarm clock setting of 7am! Anyone who knows me knows that

Good Morning

does not exist in my vocabulary. So you can understand my new reluctance to crawl out of bed and face the world before the sun is even up!

The Mister's Foibles

2011-10-01T22:03:00.000-06:00

For the record: The Mister not only knows about this post, he was pre-warned.

I love The Mister, I really do. But, even those we love can have peculiar or eccentric characteristics. The Mister has one particularly long-documented foible... I can live with his Paper Man tendencies. I raise my brows at his embarrassment for other people--even when they aren't embarrassed for themselves. I smirk at his signature snack--melted cheese and milk toast (seems a little geriatric, doesn't it?). But there is one idiosyncrasy which truly drives me up the wall. The Mister loses things.

I know we all misplace things occasionally. The mate to a sock. The car keys. The cordless phone. I Even understand the temporary loss of a car in a large parking lot, or an investment in a start-up...

But The Mister LOSES things! And it's never the $5 flip-flops or the old sweatshirt. It's not the 7-11 sunglasses. It's not the lid to the toothpaste.

The Mister has a penchant for losing expensive or hard-to-replace items. These losses usually equate to significantly inconvenient situations... Followed by ineffectual searching... Resulting in eventual replacement purchasing...

Let's document. The credit cards (numerous times), actual cost, just the inconvenience. The mail key (still missing), re-keying cost, $40. Mickey Mouse sweatshirt, worn once, $50. The electronic key to his company car (twice), $85. Maui Jims that he had to have for nostalgic reasons, $150. His wedding band, worn for approximately 6 months, $200. His company Blackberry, $400. President's Club ring, $500. The company laptop, $2000. An entire Volvo sedan, $3000. And his own hearing aids, $5000.

So, what inspired this post? Well, here's the thing... The Mister has lost something new. The Mister has actually lost pants. We flew to NYC, stayed overnight, went to a show, and The Mister flew home alone. Unsupervised... Which is where the trouble started. When I arrived back home, a few days later, we couldn't find his pants. His brand new, I-pleaded-with-him-to-buy-them, $160 Big Star jeans. Now, you might ask, how did he get home with his shoes and his shirt but no pants? Well, that's the six million dollar question. You didn't happen to see a bottom-less passenger on a recent flight from JFK to SLC, did you?

Pee-ers Revisited

2011-09-24T23:27:00.001-06:00

For those of you who are just joining me... You have a lot of catching up to do! LOL Actually--not too much, but this post actually is a follow-up to previous posts... Before we moved off the hill, we had an epidemic of post-midnight pee-ers. There was the near-miss in the pantry. The puddle at the foot of the bed in the next bedroom. And the bull's eye shot into the dresser drawer full of clean clothes.

Most of those nighttime escapades were somewhat anonymous. That is no longer the case. One of The Buddies, who shall remain nameless, has renewed his passion for peeing in assorted places. Earlier this week I heard someone wandering about--it was late, and I thought everyone was asleep... In he walked, tugging on his underwear. And before I realized what was happening, he was peeing in my bathtub! I tried to redirect him to the toilet, but that just encouraged him to wing that thing around, and his wild aiming was no longer being contained by my basin! So--I quickly reevaluated and encouraged him to finish his business and get back to bed.

Two nights later, I heard rustling again... I got up to check, and saw a similar sight. The Buddy was tugging at his tighty-whities (which happened to be blue) and proceeded to wave his business around his room. Let's be clear... We no longer live in the contemporary house with the concrete floors! This was not good! So, I helped him tuck it away and hustled him into the bathroom... which has tile... not carpet...

The best part (is there a best part?) came the next morning.

Hey, Buddy, do remember what you did last night?

To which he vehemently denies any such occurrences. He honestly remembers nothing! Truly at a loss... What to do...?

Autumn Slides into the Valley

2011-09-09T18:15:00.000-06:00

As I witness the harbingers of fall, I know my heightened enthusiasm irritates many of my friends. This year, for the first time--maybe ever--I was caught off guard by the sudden appearance of fall colors and coolish weather. I have thoroughly enjoyed these waning weeks of summer. The warm afternoons, fading into pleasant evenings of dining under an umbrella... But today I saw it. In that little canyon... The first one you see as you head up the hill...? There were subtle shades of orange in there... Just whispers of color, really. But they were there.

I've always loved autumn. And autumn appeals to me so much more than fall. Maybe because it's more adept at invoking the true feeling of the season. Winter is powerful--with the sharp wind, the biting cold, the blinding light reflecting off the snow... But autumn is subtle. Fading temperatures, transforming colors, a gentle slide from the sizzle of summer to the bitterness of winter. It's a season of mellowness. Mellow colors, flavors, aromas.

Despite being caught unawares, I'm looking forward to the anticipated changes that autumn ushers into the valley. Baking pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, simmering spiced cider, listening for the crackle of pine logs in the fireplace.

I'm not wishing away the beautiful weather, but I'm ready for the change.

Summer's Come and Gone--Almost

2011-09-05T17:42:00.002-06:00

Wow! It's been a long time since I've logged in to Blogger. The whole interface has changed and it took me a minute to find my way around! I guess I've been so busy enjoying not being busy that I took an unintentional, prolonged vacation from blogging. But the kids are back in school. The schedule has once again become routine, so I guess I should get back to real life as well.

I've enjoyed my summer even more than usual this year. Two (quick) trips to NYC with the requisite shopping and dining. A new job (that I love). Lunches with my girlfriends. Dates with The Mister. Movie nights out on the lawn... Snoasis, days on the lake, corn on the cob. What's not to like?

Maybe the best part of this particular summer has been meeting new friends. Neighbors in the new neighborhood. Mom's of some of HRH's new dance friends in NYC. Strangers on airplanes...

It might be the end of 2011--but I think this is going to be the start of a fantastic year!

Ready to Concede Defeat

2011-06-11T16:30:00.001-06:00

Last week a lovely, young couple moved into the neighborhood. It's obvious that they are completely devoted to one another. They chatter happily as they work to create their new home together. They never seem to squabble. They are committed to getting their home in order as quickly as possible.

My adorable new neighbors are the Swallows... No, not exactly Mr and Mrs Swallow--more like the barn swallows. Yep, my new neighbors are a couple of birds.

So The Swallows (Mr and Mrs) decided to relocate to the neighborhood late last week. I enjoy their lively twittering. Their roost of choice is the temperature gauge right outside my office window, which gives me a prime spot for observing them. I've noticed their pretty colors, iridescent blue wings, orange heads, yellow bellies... And I thoroughly enjoy their animated conversations. Their cheerful chatter makes me smile. They are brightly colored, energetic, and very entertaining to watch.

It was obvious from the first that the friendly little neighbors were some type of swallow; I decided to find out more. So this is what I found out: my cheerful neighbors are the same pesky little birds who love to build muddy nests. I know, I know... They will keep the pesky bugs out of my yard, and I'm sure they have other redeeming qualities, but here's what else I learned...

Barn swallows mate for life. They will live four to seven years, and they will return to the same nest year after year. They hatch two broods a year--each brood usually includes three to four hatchlings. The first brood generally hangs around to help with the second brood. This is all fine and dandy--after all, we encourage committed relationships and a tightly-knit family unit. The next part is where things get dicey...

So, besides the messy, muddy nest, and the unsanitary droppings, these cheerful little chirpers are also territorial. Especially when they have a brood in the nest. So, basically, I'm looking at the young couple, and their first brood dive-bombing any guests who come to my door during the raising of the second brood. Would you come to visit me if you know that you would be attacked by a swooping flock at my door? No, I didn't think so...

So we've taken to discouraging The Swallows. It's not that I'm opposed to them living in the neighborhood, but I'm not sure about having them as "live-in'" guests, so to speak, for the next four to seven years. Every day we spray the mud off the eves of the porch. Again, and again, and again. The Swallows are nothing, if not persistent! This has been going on for a week now. And after a week of starting over with their nest-building every few hours, they just keep at it.

I'm about ready to concede. The Mister, however, is holding his ground. It is, after all, the house he is financing--The Swallows haven't even offered to pay rent for the pleasure of sharing our roof. So, armed with a Super Soaker water gun, The Mister attacks, retreats, and attacks again.

It might be a very long summer...

bcharmed

2011-06-08T21:52:00.001-06:00

Sometimes you find yourself lucky enough to know the right people. I've just found myself in that position! My good friends (and former neighbors) have just launched an awesome jewelry company called bcharmed. This opportunity was a no-brainer. Their jewelry is beautiful and creative, the compensation is phenomenal, and they've done everything possible to make this a successful, turn-key opportunity.

Look at this gorgeous Stylist Showcase! You get beautiful, black velvet display pieces, and over $600 worth of jewelry! And the best part is that you get to pick your own jewelry pieces--pick your favorites and show them off to all your friends.

bcharmed has put a lot of forethought into designing the look of this company. Not only are they meticulous in the creation of each piece of jewelry, but each piece arrives beautifully packaged. This company is truly detail oriented.

So, lucky for you--you found my blog! And I certainly know how to hook you up! If you're interested in improving your income outlook, or just in purchasing a little bling for yourself, you need to check out bcharmed. I'm currently working on my new bcharmed Independent Stylist website--check it out at www.bforevercharmed.com. It's a work in progress, but you can see some more fun pictures of the jewelry.

Want more information? Email me! I can send you a sneak peek of the catalog (it's still in production). It doesn't matter where you live, let's schedule a bcharmed boutique for you--did I mention you'll get FREE stuff?! Email me today--the next five hosts to book a boutique will get some extra bcharmed FREEBIES!

HTML on the Brain

2011-04-19T14:08:00.001-06:00

I've been neglecting my blog... I know. But I've been ~~obsessed with~~ working on a new project.

Now, I'm no computer guru. In fact, other than how to spell the terms, I know nothing about Source Code or HTML. My working knowledge of computers has barely progressed from AOL to Google. I'm afraid of Control-Alt-Delete. And my iMac's operating system still confuses me.

I am, however, a master of the Computer Crash. I can (and usually do) crash annually. But, despite my reputation for hard drive annihilation, I am pushing forward into the Digital Unknown. I. Am. Writing. Code.

If you know me at all, you know that once I get a bee in my bonnet I am a bit single-minded. I research, ask questions, and generally make a pest of myself to anyone who will listen to me. And then I jump in with both feet.

My latest project? Building a website (by myself--really!) for my Scentsy business. I could have paid someone (that's what most of the other Independent Consultants do). But where's the fun in that? So I've chosen my colors, picked a style, and made my first effort. OK, maybe it's not my first effort, but I'm at the point where I actually have a functioning effort! LOL

At the risk of looking like I am shamelessly promoting my Scentsy business, I do want to invite you to take a look... More than shameless promotion, think of it as pride of achievement. Yes, I'm a little impressed with myself! Not only is it kinda cute (IMHO), but all the linky-thingys work! YAY!

So, here is the link to my temporary hosting site. (I can't believe I actually know anything about any type of hosting sites!) www.wickless-wonder.com.

Well, let me know what you think. But be kind... First efforts and all, remember?

Decisions

2011-04-01T10:32:00.000-06:00

I'm a Master Decision-maker... Ha ha haha... Actually I'm a Decision Procrastinator. It's not that I don't want to bring things to a conclusion--to resolve the issues... But, first, I have to research. And by research, what I really mean is that I need to consult all available resources. Consumer Reports. PC Magazine. Cnet. ZDnet. The BBB...

But, today, I made an impromptu executive decision. Immediately. On the spot. Without second-guessing. And you know what? It feels good!

Time

2011-03-20T21:55:00.001-06:00

It's so crazy how quickly time gets away from us!
This photo was taken in July 1991.

The little guy in the photo is The Boy. The handsome guy (with the cheesy grin) is my brother. I just realized that The Boy is now almost two years older than Tom was when this photo was taken. Isn't that just too crazy? And mom, I'll send you a copy of this photo!

Curves

2011-03-18T07:53:00.000-06:00

I am well acquainted with the word voluptuous,

but yesterday I discovered a new word.

vo-LUMP-tuous

Let's just say that I can relate to this new word even better! lol

And so much more descriptive, isn't it?

Empty

2011-03-15T20:36:00.000-06:00

I feel like my head is completely empty lately... Maybe the hours of mindless driving (sounds scary, huh?) fueled by compulsive Easter candy eating is a causative factor. Whatever!

For lack of anything worthwhile to share, I thought I'd just embarrass HRH by posting this pic. I took this a couple of weeks ago for an audition...

Yes, she does look just like her mother, doesn't she? NOT!

Neighbors

2011-03-14T13:17:00.000-06:00

We are settling into our new neighborhood. I have to say, living on a street that is full of children is a happy change for us! We loved our former neighbors... We just wished there had been more of them to love! We went from a neighborhood of vacant houses and few children to a neighborhood just teeming with friends and cohorts! Now, if I could just convince The Buddies to tell me where they're going I'd be set! Max has a bad habit of wandering off with any new friend he makes... That makes it a little hard for me to find him! We nearly called the police twice last week! We've got to do some serious training around here!

Pantry

2011-03-11T22:46:00.000-07:00

I've heard that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone... I'd say that's about right! Our last house had an amazing pantry. Granite counter tops, cherry cabinets, an extra fridge... It even had a window! And now I'm relegated to a pantry that barely qualifies as a closet. I know, a small pantry closet is typical, but still... Gotta miss all those shelves and the extra fridge--Popsicle, anyone?!

So, The Mister had this brilliant idea that he should build an additional pantry. I told him that we'd just have to keep extra food storage in the basement... He just would not listen. And then he started building his project--without my approval! I made more than my share of disparaging remarks. And I wondered who, in their right mind, would agree with him about this being a good idea.

Apparently, in my right mind, I would be the one to agree with him! That Mister is truly brilliant! I can't believe that I thought he'd lost all his marbles... It still sounds crazy, but it is so functional! The new pantry is in the garage, just outside the kitchen door. It is accessed by the landing from the stairs that lead from the garage floor into the house. It is suspended over an additional fridge and freezer which are located at the back of the garage.

So, I'll do a premature reveal and post a few photos...

These are the stairs from the garage to the house.

The door opens directly into the kitchen.

The stairs to the right (stacked with boxes) enter the protruding pantry.

This is the pantry--still in need of a door...

Shelves on the right, a Shelf-Reliance self-rotating can dispenser at the back.

This is a view of the protruding pantry--see the freezer underneath?

The mister is going to add another row of shelves, and we do need to install the light and the door. Aside from that, I'm ready to start cookin' with my new stash of goodies! I'll be sure to post better photos once it's done and the garage is emptied enough to really see that it's working (and that my car will still fit in the garage!). And yes, I will continue to call it the Protruding Pantry... just FYI...

Thanks, Mister!

Lax

2011-03-09T12:09:00.000-07:00

I know that I have neglected my daily blogging for the month. I'm hoping that the fact that I was focusing on obtaining oxygen for my brain is excuse enough. Luckily, my cold was short-lived, and I'm back to normal (or my version of normal, anyway...).

I am pleased to say that I've made some progress on the office. And the kitchen is getting more functional by the day. We have furniture in the bedrooms (thanks for swapping "junk" with me, Gen!). And I have high hopes for the laundry room.

Now, if the snow would either provide full coverage, or dry up altogether (along with the accompanying mud), that would be great! Lola is having trouble doing her doggy-business without tracking mud everywhere! But, I am afraid that LAWN is a topic that is far (far, far...) in the future.

Baptism

2011-03-05T22:50:00.000-07:00

Today was a special day at our house. It's not every day that we get to baptise one of our children... And today, we got to baptise three! What an amazing experience to watch these three little people as they seem to grow up right before our eyes. I am so proud of them. And even though we are new to our ward family, we felt all their love today. Thanks, everyone, for making today so special!

And for inquiring minds, who just have to know... They were not necessarily dunked nor blessed in "birth order" and both were done in a different order... So you can just keep guessing! HA!

Scentsy

2011-03-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

It's SPRING! (well, sorta...) And the new Scentsy catalog is out! I've only seen it online, so far. But I can't wait to get my hands on one!

Do you want to take a peek? If you do, check out my website! You can order right from there, and everything will show up on your doorstep in a blink! I can't wait to try out the new Jumpin' Jelly Bean scent bar. And have you seen the Warmer of the Month? So stinkin' cute! Let me know if you wanna have a party! I can't wait to show you all the fun new stuff!

Puddles (part 3)

2011-03-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

We have seen a return by an unexpected nocturnal visitor... Will the phantom pee-er please raise his hand?

Great. Now, you there, just stop that!

Even though the puddles have been on the bathroom tile (SOOOO grateful that they haven't been on the carpet)... I still don't enjoy mopping them up. If you could just find your way to the bathroom, and then lift the lid before proceeding to dispense anything, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,

In A Word

2011-03-02T18:38:00.000-07:00

The title for NaBloPoMo this month is In A Word. I've started the month by introducing you to my Office... The word for tomorrow will probably be Kitchen, or Driveway, or maybe Bedroom... Do you see a theme here with the words I'm choosing? Maybe it's because thinking about all I need to do for our new home is taking up all the oxygen in my brain. Or maybe I just have a one-track mind. Either way, this will probably be your introduction to all things Bean House related. And how would I describe the Bean House, in a word? Crazy! LOL
Enjoy!

Office

2011-03-01T22:13:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure why, but my office frequently bears the brunt of our family mess. For some unknown reason, it has become the eternal catch-all location. It's really a shame, I think I would be so much more productive if my work space was more organized... But at least for now, it has become storage for unopened boxes. I guess it's just a fact that sleeping areas and the kitchen take priority, but I still look forward to the day when all cardboard is evicted from my workspace. I dream about the day when my desks are free from the overflow from other parts of the house.

In truth, I think I've encouraged the chaos in previous houses. Not intentionally, but still... I haven't taken my office space seriously enough (or maybe I haven't taken my business seriously enough) and the office has become Craft Central and Computer Game Haven. This time things have to be different. Not just because I say so... But because I just don't have room/storage/patience for it now.

So--here it is...

Stay tuned to see the final results!

A Moving Experience

2011-02-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

We have relocated, yes, again. But this will be our last move... Oh, have I already promised that? oh... well...

Anyway--this move was full of adventure. First, I was lucky enough to get to move at the beginning of The Mister's two-week work-related absence. Moving without The Mister around? NOT on the Recommended List.

Next, the movers wrecked up nearly all of our furniture... Trust me, I am not exaggerating. In fact, it was so bad that they have taken all my furniture to have it professionally repaired. So--while we have moved, we have arrived without more than a stick of furniture. That's good for some interesting situations. Picnic, anyone?

And then there were the problems with the counter tops... One and a half inch out of level... Catch that egg before it splatters on the floor!!!

But then there is the good stuff... Baking without the challenges of higher elevation. No extreme snow drifts. AWESOME neighbors (no offense, Jen! We still miss you guys!). And a park across the street. And the best news? I've become a Master of the Spray Paint Can. Yep, if it will sit still, I can spray it! And oh, what a difference a little paint can make!

So--if you're up for sitting on the floor. And you don't mind mountains of cardboard boxes (hard to put stuff away if you don't have any dressers...). Then come on over! We'd love to have a visit! And we're just excited to be here!

Diva

2011-01-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

We're having a little problem with second grade. Last year, JJ had the sweetest teacher. She treated him like the favored grandchild. JJ has a tendency to get teary. In fact some little girl just called him a whiner and a crybaby. I can't say she wasn't correct. But anyway, last year his teacher would let him sit on her lap, or sometimes she would even let him call home from her phone. After a little coddling, he'd be ok and go back to his desk.

This year, JJ is taken with sick days. At least a couple of times a week I get a call from the office.

JJ is in the office. He says he's sick. Can you come get him?

Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't... But it's getting tiresome for me and for the office staff.

Last week JJ had a complete melt down at dinnertime. He was tired and hungry and just could not cope. He sobbed over his dinner plate. The Mister told him to eat and that he'd feel better... The Mister then proceeded to spoon-feed him. And happily, he became a different child.

Fast forward to an evening in front of the TV. This commercial came on...

And that is when it hit me. I think he's just being a hungry diva at school.

We talked to the office staff and they agreed to stash some healthy snacks for him. He has gone to the office for a Crisis Snack only once that I know of... And I haven't had a call to come pick him up in two weeks! YAY!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-13T20:33:00.000-07:00

I know that December has come and gone... It's nearly mid-January, but I still wanted to add a little blog post about our Christmas Holiday.

Like any other family with children, the days preceding Christmas were full of excitement. We took evening tours of the neighborhoods to check out the light displays. We built snowmen. We drank hot chocolate. We speculated on who had been naughty--and if anyone had been nice... We shopped, made lists, ate too much, and enjoyed each other (up until the point where we started to drive each other crazy!).

On Christmas Eve, with the elves peeking through the windows, we tucked The Buddies into bed. Due to The Mister's brilliant idea of taking them to Jump On It, and then to the community swimming pool, the little guys were exhausted, and fell peacefully to sleep. HRH and The Boy were another story... Delay, delay, delay... They were convinced that if they stayed up long enough, Santa would let them help with his midnight chores... Like he would ever do that! He doesn't even let me stay up to help! So, after much complaining, they finally skulked off to bed.

A couple hours later, while creeping out to get a drink, I caught The Big Guy! He had just emerged from the chimney when I unwittingly surprised him. But he was a good sport. He even let me take a picture or two, just to show the kids...

We had a fabulous day, full of fun and surprises. Wishes were fulfilled, and the Lego-Building Frenzy has still not abated. I think it's fair to say that a good day was had by all.

I hope your Christmas was as beautiful!

Fingers Crossed

2011-01-02T15:41:00.001-07:00

It's the beginning of a new year. A time when many of us reflect upon the previous twelve months. Our choices, disappointments, and small moments of triumph. A time to wish we'd done some things differently. And a time to rejoice in unexpected good fortune. It's a time of reflection, and an opportunity for self evaluation.

Today in church we had a lesson about the importance of resolutions. Not exactly a typical topic for a Sunday lesson... Usually, even if the content remained the same, the title of the lesson would read something more like "Goals" or "Achieving Personal Progression," alluding to something seemingly more enlightened than "lose that last 15 pounds."

I'm not a huge proponent of New Year Resolutions. I guess my reasoning is that if you don't make them, you can't break them... Possibly not the most insightful way of looking at it--but that's a pretty good indicator of my mentality regarding change. Let's just say that I don't do change well. Change. I dread the possibility of it... I avoid the impetus of it... The whole thought of it makes me cringe, quite literally...

But, after pondering the Sunday lesson, I've decided that I do, in fact, have a desire to change a few minute aspects of my life. So, here's my plan. I resolve to lose weight, eat more healthfully, be kinder to those around me, learn something new, be more outgoing, make a new friend. I plan to be more successful, be more creative. Walk the dog, drink more water, learn a new skill. Travel the world, read something amazing, influence someone for good. I plan to cook from scratch, bake beautiful birthday cakes, and host amazing little get-togethers. I'll meet all my new neighbors, always wear a smile, and be kind to the guy who allows his dog to poop on my lawn. I'll plant flowers, create beautiful floral arrangements for the table, and nurture a fruit tree... There... I think that will do it...

And if you found any typos in the previous paragraph, you can blame it on my trying to type with my fingers crossed. Because crossed fingers negate everything... Right?

Everything Old Is New Again

2010-12-13T21:40:00.001-07:00

I've been snowboarding since the 80s. Yes, I know that means I must be really old, but there you have it. The Mister (who is even older) is a purist. A skier. A slave to twin, parallel boards. Every once in a while, I am cajoled into joining him in a run down the hill. But because I prefer my snowboard, I haven't upgraded (nor updated) my skis and bindings since high school--don't laugh!

Anyway, the last time I went skiing, I actually had some fresh-faced punk ooh-ing and aah-ing over my "cool new" bindings. He'd clearly never seen anything like them... He assumed they must be the latest thing in ski binding technology.

Fast forward to today. My kids, with some not-to-subtle hinting from me, bought me a 1930s Smith & Corona typewriter for Christmas. It arrived today, and HRH and I thought it would be prudent to check it for damage. I told her to sit tight while I grabbed some paper.

What kind of paper?

She wanted to know... I just laughed... So, we put in a sheet of regular pink paper, and started to pluck away. HRH tapped a little too lightly--

Did it work? Did I do it?

It did not... No.

After peeking inside, she realized it had to actually stamp the paper. That's about when The Buddies noticed the racket (I'd forgotten how loud a typewriter is!). I don't think they could have been more impressed if I'd parked a spaceship in the back yard.

Truly, everything is new again...

Living Social

2010-12-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

I've got a new favorite way to get deals! Have you heard about Living Social? Two weeks ago I got an email offering a 90 minute massage, 60 minute European facial, and a 30 minute pedi--all for $54! Can you believe that bargain? Even better--if three friends buy the same offer, I get it FREE! Holy cow! Anybody up for a massage? Ha ha... Sorry, that offer has expired, but check back often and I'll post links to the local offerings for future savings. Spa Day! Here I come!

I hear violins...

2010-12-09T00:46:00.000-07:00

In September, or maybe it was October, The Buddies decided that they wanted to take violin lessons. They had been taking piano and voice, but their teacher was on a maternity break. I decided we'd give it a shot and see how it went.

We went through the process of renting violins... (I'm not stupid--did you really think I'd buy three violins!?) I was shocked to find out that my three little guys--born 120 seconds apart--are so different in size that we required three different sized violins. Actually--I was almost as shocked just to realize that violins came in that many sizes... Ok--so I'm musically uninformed... But there you have it--we've become a violin-toting, music book schlepping, early-class attending group of violinists...

Let's just say that getting three little boys out the door for school an hour earlier, twice a week, has not been fun. Add to that the fact that we're (still) living across town from our school... I'll just be honest and tell you that most days (ok--all days) I drive across town in my pajamas... Scary thought! Don't ponder that too long!

But tonight was the big payoff. The concert. The holiday recital. I'd heard them practicing... A moderately painful, albeit infrequent, occurrence... But tonight they sounded amazing. Granted, there were some more experienced violinists in the group, and maybe they overpowered The Buddies, but they sounded awesome!

The only thing that could have made it better? If we'd actually been able to see The Buddies while they played... At least more of them than just the legs and feet that peeked out from the bottom of the black music stands!

Scentsy

2010-12-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

I have a new linky button on my sidebar... Did you see it? It's right there! Look!!! (And you can even click it if you feel so inclined...)

What am I doing with a Scentsy button? Well, let me tell you! About a million years ago, ok, maybe it was only about 14 years ago, I had a little candle and soap business. We were living in Arizona when I started Quiet Moments Candle Company. It started as a hobby, and before I knew it, it had taken over my life. If I wasn't taking orders, I was filling orders... If I wasn't managing the orders, I was making the candles... I tested fragrances, color, and burn properties... I toyed with different waxes, wicks, and analyzed melt pools. I labeled, made tags, set up displays, and tied on ribbons. And I really liked it! I loved selling my little jars and blocks at craft boutiques and fairs, mostly because that's where I got to meet new people. But there came a time when it became overwhelming. I just didn't have the time necessary to maintain my family responsibilities, create all the products, and field all the sales. So, it was a sad end to my little adventure.

Somewhere along the way, I became disenchanted with burning candles. I loved the beautiful, flickering light. I loved the way the fragrances seemed to warm my house and fill it with childhood memories. But I wasn't a fan of the ghosting. What's ghosting? Let me share... I started to see shadows above my air vents... I discovered that those dark shadows were the result of the soot in the air in my house. Soot that was being sucked through my vents and spewed back into our home for us to breath. Definately not a fan...

In time, we moved into a new house. (I know, shocking, isn't it...) And I made the decision that we would not burn candles in our new home... And we didn't. But I missed the scent of baking cookies--and my waistline certainly didn't need me to turn our kitchen into a mass-cookie-baking operation. So, what was a girl to do?

I'll tell you what I did, I discovered Scentsy! I found a product that melted wax, just like a candle. Created a warm and enviting ambiance, just like a candle. Filled my home with amazing aromas, just like a candle. But it didn't fill my house with soot! The wax is melted by a low wattage light bulb. No more worries about catching something on fire. No more wick-trimming. No more hot wax burns (this wax melts at a lower temperature). And best of all, no more soot!

If you want to try it, click on my linky button! Go ahead, I dare you! Do it now! :)

Perspective

2010-12-04T22:56:00.001-07:00

I've recently been witness to a painful lesson in how differently two people can perceive the same situation.

In our business-savvy world, we do all we can to eliminate unnecessary misunderstandings. We define time lines, terms of payment, responsibilities, and expectations... And still, there is always room for misinterpretation.

It's frustrating to look at a scenario and see one thing, while knowing that another party is interpreting the same information in an entirely different way. And being the opinionated person that I am, I feel completely driven to convince the opposing side of my correctness. Never mind that at the same time, those same people are trying to convince me to accept their (erroneous) point of view.

I pride myself on being a fairly reasonable person (disputed by some of my son's friends, I'm sure). And I like to think that I am logical as well. Is my sensible mind-set an anomaly? Why don't more people agree with me? It would save us both some time and annoyance. Maybe some people just enjoy a good argument... What they don't know is that I am really skilled in the art of the argument. And, of course, I have the benefit of being right.

Oh, so thankful!

2010-11-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday they were predicting a seven-year storm... Since it hasn't been seven years since the storm that left my children alone on the mountain, and tens of other children sleeping at the elementary school, I expected that this would be an even bigger storm. Hard to imagine...

I dropped my kids off at school yesterday morning and pondered the oncoming blizzard. Since we are temporarily living across town from the schools, I needed to be sure to plan for road conditions. My plan was to have everyone home in time to enjoy hot chocolate from the warmth of grandma's kitchen.

On my return drive, I was reminded of what I might have been anticipating if we were still living on the hilltop. The road crew was delivering Road Closed signs. There were large barricades, signs, flashing lights, and bright orange cones... And that was when I was hit full-force with gratitude. As much as I loved the valley, mountain, and lake views from my former home, I won't miss hiking in from the road. I won't miss unrelenting cabin-fever created by impassible drifts. And I won't miss the feeling of living in a house that clings to a mountainside while the winds tries mercilessly to blow it off its perch.

There is something really comforting about being nestled into a neighborhood with people in the surrounding houses. I think I'm gonna love neighborhood-living! And I'm happy to report that we did indeed get home safe and sound. And the cocoa was lovely...

re-tar-ded

2010-11-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

There were many reasons leading up to our decision to move off the mountain. One of those reasons was the annoying condition of our private street. We moved into the house about 5 years ago. Just prior to our move-in, a section of the road was trenched to lay assorted wires and cables. As the years passed, the trench filled with water, turned to mud, washed away, and generally continued to erode its way to canyon status. By the time The Boy got the Volvo, he had to be very careful not to bottom-out when entering or exiting our street.

We requested remedy for our annoying trench, but our request fell on deaf ears... So, we continued to haul in dirt, gravel, whatever we could find, to temporarily stay the deepening chasm.

Now that we've removed ourselves from the neighborhood (and btw--we were the ONLY ones living on our particular private street), they have finally decided to fix our street. A street with no inhabitants... A street upon which nary a car ever travels...

And this is how they fixed it. They re-tarred it. Only, they were a little re-tar-ded in their efforts... The only part of the street that needed fixing was the gradually growing gully... Did they fill that with tar? Why, no! They re-tarred up to the trench, skipped the gulf, and picked up on the other side. They re-tarred a road that didn't need it--except for that one spot that they skipped!

Seriously... Re-tar-ded...

A Fart in the Tub

2010-11-20T20:26:00.001-07:00

You never know what you will overhear when you live with three little boys. Today was a perfect example. We finished up with dinner and sent the boys to get in the bath. The water was running and two of the three were in the tub when the third ran to inform us...

There's poop in the tub!

One of the tubbers hollered,

I farted! It was probably fart!

Inspection proved that it was neither a poop nor a chunk of fart(?) but just a piece of broken leaf. There you have it. Excitement at the Bean house!

Crossing Guards

2010-11-05T10:12:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to say thanks to the elementary school crossing guards. I see the same, nice lady out in front of our school every morning. She's adorable, and I'm always a little afraid that she might blow away in the wind. I don't think she's ever missed a day. And I'm pretty sure she's been at the same crosswalk for at least two years now. Does she never get sick? Never go on vacation? Never want to sleep in? And how does she keep from getting frostbite once the winter winds start howling?

Seriously, I'd never want that job... Not even if they paid me (and they don't, just in case you were wondering...).

So, "Thank You," school crossing guards! For keeping our kids safe! For not being cross and bitter!

We really do appreciate you!

Open High School

2010-11-04T10:37:00.000-06:00

Today is November 4 and I have only posted once this week. This should be my fourth post, but sometimes those little things for which we are most grateful seem to get in the way! HRH is working through an online charter school. This is great for her dance schedule, but frequently ties up my computer!

Today I am grateful for a that very thing that keeps me from blogging. I am so impressed by our charter school. I like that someone has finally found a way to cater to kids who have other, time-worthy things going on in their lives. For anyone interested, check out www.OpenHighSchool.org.

Day One - and I missed it!

2010-11-02T07:56:00.001-06:00

A couple of my friends have invited me to join them in their efforts to write a complete novel this month. I considered participating, albeit briefly. Truth is, I just don't feel settled enough to sit down and focus in the way writing a novel would require. Instead, I had committed to blog every day as my effort in getting words on paper (so to speak). But I've already fallen short on my responsibilities.... It's November 2 and I'm writing my first post...

I had decided to dedicate this month's blogging to the little things that inspire gratitude. And the first on my list is Fall.

I love it when the colors start to change. I feel a thrill on that first, warm afternoon when I spot a changeling tree... That earliest speck of orange that will grow and evolve until the hillside is ablaze with color. I feel gratitude for the beauty of Fall's colors.

Snow Envy

2010-10-26T09:23:00.000-06:00

Yesterday when I awoke, I was hit with the realization that Late Fall had arrived. The lawn had been drenched during the night, there was a rich, dewiness to everything. The colors were more vibrant--or maybe more stark--I can't quite decide. The leaves from the neighbors trees had cartwheeled across the lawn... Finally relaxing into restful poses against anything upright. Their rich, seasonal colors of gold and flame a contrast against the drab concrete and the mellow green of the grass.

And then I looked toward my former home... The neighborhood upon the hilltop. They had snow. The first snow. The best snow... The earliest snow of each season is special. It usually arrives stealthfully in the night. The morning making its entrance with a surprising glistening on each surface outside our windows. The first snow is usually early enough that the dazzling, autumnal colors of the trees seep through the translucent dusting to create a watercolor of muted tones.

I have to say, I'm not wishing for winter, not yet. I have no desire for the hassles of bundling up in coats, mittens, hats, and scarves... But still, there is nothing like that first dusting of early snow... I can't wait for my first white morning surprise. And I think it might be coming soon!

To Inquiring Minds...

2010-10-25T22:25:00.000-06:00

I am happy to report that we have had no midnight marauders. No wandering pee-ers. No mysterious puddles. This makes my mom very happy since we are staying in her home... and her carpeting is very nice (and clean!). Yay!

My Teen Redux--Sorta

2010-10-23T22:38:00.001-06:00

It's always an interesting predicament to find your adult self back in your parents home. It's happened to me briefly before, always as a temporary stop-over to a new landing place... The first time was when my ex-husband and I were in the middle of a military relocation... (Ha ha... you didn't even know there was an ex-husband, did you!?) Later, I was in the process of re-labeling aforementioned man from Husband to Ex-Husband... Both times, it was just a matter of months, but there is nothing like living in your childhood home to make you feel like you are reliving your teen years. There's a certain feeling that you need to surrender your adulthood when you return to your parents home.

First, you are back in the territory dominated by your parents. Always interesting when you have been queen of your own domain for a while. There are the expected hours--to get up, to go to bed, to do assorted tasks... There are the rules--don't leave that there, make your bed, put the dishes in the dishwasher. Not that I wouldn't do those things anyway--but it's different when you're doing them because you are expected to, and not of your own accord.

And then there are all the old friends and neighbors...

Hello, Mrs. Quigley...

How are you, Sister Day?

Julie! I haven't seen you since high school graduation!!!

It's hard to be an adult in these situations... You want to catch up with everyone, but how to do that? You're not exactly the same person--circumstances and situations have invariably changed you (and the others, too). You can't hang out in the bedroom with the stereo playing... You can't stay out too late--that isn't exactly considerate to someone who is hosting you at their own inconvenience... And yet, you want the opportunity to fill in the missing blanks in the lives of the people you have missed...

There are the familiar faces at church. The same faces at the ball games (although those faces are now in the crowd, cheering their own children, and not on the playing field). The butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker... It's all so familiar, and yet, it's all different.

Today, I find myself, once again, in my mom's domain. We moved into my parents house nearly two weeks ago. Our deadline for moving from our most recent home had arrived... Unfortunately, our new home has not yet been completed. **In fact, it is seriously behind schedule.** So, here we are... Not the young couple with the little baby... Not the single mom... No. Our whole (rather over-sized) family. That's two full-grown (theoretically) adults, a teen, The Buddies, and a dog. This extreme multiplication in residency may prove to be challenging... It's cozy, to say the least, but pleasant.

Besides the exponentially higher number of people, how is this unifying-of-households different? Well, for one thing, this isn't my childhood home. My parents relocated (at my persistent urging) a few years ago. It's been fabulous to have them so close... And for this short-term tenancy, their relocation has been a blessing. My children are able to stay in the same schools, see their usual friends, go to dance, soccer, and assorted activities... Other than not having a bus--little has changed in their day-to-day lives. But, the fact that this isn't the home of my childhood means that I don't know the neighbors. I don't know the ladies at church. I can't catch up with old friends... And I'm not really feeling motivated to pursue new acquaintances because we won't be here very long...

So for me, life is in upheaval. While I don't feel like I'm no longer a card-carrying member of the Adult Party, I do feel the sting of being The Secondary. I miss my kitchen (not the physicality of it, just that it's mine--filled with my things). I miss my brand of milk in the fridge. I miss my collection of cookbooks. I miss my high-capacity washer that can wash three sets of twin-sized sheets at once. I miss knowing which channel shows my favorite TV shows. I miss knowing where my stuff is... Being able to find that shirt, those boots, this jacket...

But, really? I can't complain. My parents are Saints. I do less cooking (mom and I are trying to share that responsibility). Dad seems to enjoy spending time exercising Lola. The Buddies love showing off their rapidly-improving reading skills to Grandma and Grandpa. I have back-up chaperons, chauffeurs, and care-givers. And best of all, I have about 4000 fewer square feet to clean! Maybe we'll just stay here...

JUST KIDDING, MOM! Don't have a heart attack!

Life here is rather pleasant, but I'm still looking forward to getting back to "normal" in our new home.

Pencil that in...

2010-10-18T21:15:00.002-06:00

Announcement: We've moved... Again.

I know, I know... The last time we moved I announced that we'd never move again. I insisted that you could update your address book with ink. I told you it was unnecessary to pencil us in... We were staying put. We had arrived at our permanent address.

I lied.

So, here we are again. How many years was it this time? About four, and that is, perhaps, close to our record.

And now I will try to be perfectly honest. We've moved. Please pencil in our new address.

Thanks...

It's a mystery...

2010-09-23T11:04:00.000-06:00

Really, I promise not to turn this blog into the potty chronicles. But we found a mystery puddle. Nobody remembers doing it. HRH did not witness it. It was on a bedroom floor... Seriously gotta put a stop to the random midnight urination...

The Dilemma

2010-09-21T23:06:00.000-06:00

We have a cat. It isn't this cat. It's not one of these cats. It's a totally different cat (although it was mothered by one of the aforementioned cats). Anyway, while she isn't our original pet, she has, in fact, made herself useful. We are blissfully mouse-free, thanks to this cat.

The newest dilemma... While our nameless cat (currently nicknamed Floosie) is an acknowledged member of the family, she has never had the opportunity to be invited into our home. She lives in the garage. The yard is her domain. The surrounding hillside creatures cower whenever she is near... But here's the thing. She loves to wander. She comes back home, but then she wanders again.

OK--so this is a bit of a spoiler to this previous post. If you are waiting for a big announcement--stop here... If, however, you know me well enough to know that this is as good as it's gonna get, keep reading.

So, we're moving. Not too far, but to a different zip code, a new location, a neighborhood where there are more children roaming than vermin. We're looking forward to having other children around. The cat, however, will be wholly out of her element. I have to wonder... Will she stick around the new house? Will she wander away? Will she head back to rule in her established realm? Floosie likes to chase creatures. She noms on tasty mice, voles, and feathered friends. I'm not sure she'll enjoy the manicured landscape. The lack of adventure, the absence of danger waiting around every boulder and bush. Truthfully, traffic will be a whole new adventure for her. I don't think she's ever feared for her life due to advancing autos. We just don't get much traffic up here.

So the questions: Exactly how do you manage the relocation of an outdoor cat? And should it even be attempted? And if not, what are the options?

Just wondering...

In a quandry...

2010-09-20T21:26:00.001-06:00

I hinted that I was in a quandary... Truth is, I WAS in a quandary... Now it's passed, and I survived my indecision. But now I am stuck questioning the decisions made by everyone else!

What the heck am I blabbering about? Let me tell you...

I received a wedding invitation a month or so ago. I was expecting it, but was impressed when it arrived because it was rather grand. At the bottom of the beautiful piece of engraved stationary was the note,

Cocktail Attire Requested

Now, I know that I'm not on the Queen's short list when it comes to invitiations to tea, a gala, or an evening at the symphony... But I do know how to dress up a bit. And I have been to more than one Cocktail Event. But for some completely baffling reason, seeing those words at the bottom of an invitation throws me into a tailspin.

Truth be told, I put off choosing something to wear until the last minute. I was going to wear a gorgeous, tuxedo skirt and a beaded top. Very elegant, but not too flashy... Then I talked myself into a whole lot of drama! First, I made the unfortunate decision to just check to see what the true definition of Cocktail Attire really is... OK, I was on the mark there... But then, things got a little dicey. Apparently, Cocktail Attire has sub-categories--like, for weddings... If the wedding is in the evening, then beading and sparkles are acceptable. If it's a daytime wedding, no sparkles, not ever... No black. No white. Not too sexy. blah blah blah...

Let me just inform you that I was one of maybe 5 out of 200 people NOT wearing black. For a daytime wedding. And most of the black dresses were sparkly. I was not. I might have followed The Rules, but I kinda wish that I had just worn the tuxedo skirt. I didn't want to stand out for being inappropriate, instead I stood out for being the only one on point. At least I was on point in my own (rarely humble--according to The Mister) opinion.

And that's how it ended. I am the one in all the wedding photos wearing a color. I can't be missed... Really, you can't miss seeing me... Yep, there I am.

Somethings Cooking

2010-09-18T21:54:00.000-06:00

I was a pretty dedicated blogger until life got in the way. What is it about the goings on of a family... Without a little excitement there are meager pickings for blog topics. But when there's too much excitement, there just isn't time enough to take a break and get it all down. It's like the days when you have no ingredients on hand to make a quick dinner versus the evenings when you find yourself looking at a fully stocked pantry with no time to throw anything together.

I now find myself in the exasperating situation of having too many pots on the stove with nothing ready to serve. I'd love to update the world on our new adventures and big changes, but they're all still works in progress. But I know that as soon as our plans solidify, I'll be slammed with to many obligations to blog anything.

Lately, I find myself ruminating on our future. In particular, I'm daydreaming about a kitchen with cookies baking in the oven... Kids playing at the park... Taking walks around the neighborhood... It's something of a domestic daydream involving lots of family time a liberal dose of homemade cuisine. It's a pleasant dream--I hope it comes to fruition soon!

It's been a good day.

2010-09-16T19:25:00.000-06:00

Lots of big things are happening here. Some things are coming to a resolution. New adventures are about to begin. It's gonna be a big year for us. And, at least at this junction, I'm happy to say that things are moving in a positive direction.

Announcing a Pending Announcement....

2010-09-15T18:54:00.000-06:00

I have nothing to announce, but I'm hoping to very soon! We've been working on a new project here at the Bean Household. Tomorrow we should have all the loose ends tied up. I know I haven't been posting much lately, the truth is, some of these preparations have been taking up all my time... And I just wasn't quite ready to share. But big changes are coming! And, NO, I absolutely am NOT pregnant! No more Crazy Beans for us! Wait and see what's next...

Scraping the Bottom...

2010-09-14T17:45:00.000-06:00

Well, after a much anticipated night free from nocturnal wanderings, it's time to blog on a new topic. Problem is, life's gotten a little dull around here (**snicker/snort** actually, I'm just not sharing yet). So with nothing of interest to blog about, I'm scraping the bottom of the barrel to find a topic. You're free to either check out now, or just plow on through the muck.

School has started for the Crazy Beans. The Buddies are loving Second Grade. Per our previous decision, all three boys are in separate classes. This arrangement, while beneficial for The Buddies, has proven challenging for Moi. I'm afraid I threw a bit of a tantrum the other day over a particular assignment. The assignment involved making paper dolls resembling each boy. Sounds fun enough, right? WRONG! I've had to do this same assignment three times each year for three years in a row now! Did I say "I" had to do it? YES! Me. Moi. I. And I have enjoyed it only that first time. Technically, I guess it was only two years in a row, because HRH stepped in to stop the meltdown this year. Really, after six paper dolls I just couldn't do it again.

As for school for HRH... This year has been experiment in unconventional, or at least nontraditional education. There is a learning curve, for sure. But it's getting easier every week. Last week I threatened to change my name from "Mom" to something less effortless to holler through the house. It was a constant barrage of,

Mom, can you take a look at this? Mom! Mom? Moooooommmmmm...

I had to be very firm and remind her that I am NOT her teacher. She still doesn't like emailing and Skyping her teachers, but she's less resistant to it this week... It's getting better... Really... It is! :)

It's Becoming a Theme

2010-09-13T10:30:00.000-06:00

OK--So I know that my blog isn't dedicated to the Sleepwalkers of America, but for some reason that seems to be an ongoing theme. A couple of nights ago HRH caught Max sleepwalking. He made a stop in the pantry to do... guess what... his business! Yes, he traveled past three bathrooms before reaching the kitchen pantry. And that is where he chose to relieve himself!

So here's the concern... Why have my triplets suddenly become uncontrollable sleepwalkers? Why, while sleepwalking, do they need to relieve themselves in locations other than the bathroom? And why is HRH always a witness to this monkey business? I think she shares some culpability--I just haven't figured out how... :)

So, really, I'm looking for suggestions. We're continuing with the pre-bedtime potty pit-stop. We're limiting fluid intake. But they still need to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. Are they just growing? What's the deal? And what's with the sleepwalking? How do we make sure they're fully alert and aware of location before they begin their business? More suggestions, please!

Puddles - Part Deux

2010-09-06T08:31:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure what's going on around here, but it seems to be contagious. Last night HRH wandered into our room at about 10:30. She said that Max was crying, and that he'd peed in his dresser drawers... What?! Yep, he was sleep walking and thought he'd made it into the bathroom. First drawer open took the hit.

First off, what is with the sudden upswing of sleepwalking. And why must the sleep walkers also be sleep pee-ers? And what is HRH's role in all this? She seems to be a common element...

At least Zeke peed on the concrete floor. That was easy to mop up. But a dresser drawer? That involves not only wood furniture, but also an armload of clean clothes!

I have The Buddies use the bathroom right before bed. We limit their drinking water close to bedtime... What else can we do? I'm at a loss...

Puddles

2010-08-29T13:23:00.000-06:00

There is something disconcerting about a puddle. Not rain puddles, which are great for splashing around in while sporting wellies and carrying an umbrella... I'm referencing the puddles found in your home. Is the roof leaking? Did the washer over flow? Did the plumbing fail? None of these options lead to happy thoughts.

Then there are the puppy puddles and the spilled lemonade. Those puddles are bothersome, but hardly worrisome.

We had a different type of puddle appear under cover of a dark night. But this puddle wasn't a mystery. There were witnesses to its appearance. The Princess was sleeping when she heard a Buddy entering the room. He proceeded to pull down his pajama bottoms and "puddle" the floor. HRH, in a startled state, tried to get him to stop. But, in his sleep-altered mentality, he thought he was in the bathroom!

I have children who talk in their sleep. It may even be a hereditary thing, as I've been known to give entire speeches in my sleep... But sleepwalking is a new experience for us. We will lock the doors, make sure there is nothing to stumble upon, do everything we can to protect our nocturnal wanderer... But all I can do is hope that the puddles are kept to a minimum. And I'll keep feeling gratitude that concrete floors are so easy mopped up!

The Mister and Me

2010-08-27T22:52:00.000-06:00

Sometimes life comes at you like a freight train. You flinch as you bail out of the way and hope you cleared the carnage! It's times like that when I'm so happy I have such a great guy at my side.

The Mister and I certainly have our differences of opinion. We disagree on bedtimes (for us and for the kids!), we can find no common ground regarding literature, he likes lemon, I prefer chocolate... But the one thing I know is that he will always be my rock when I really need it.

Tonight we attended the 50th Wedding Anniversary bash for some family friends. As we were getting ready for the event, The Mister adamantly informed me that we would be having no such celebration. When I raised my eyebrows, he informed me that one of us will have killed the other long before then! Truth is, he'll be in his 80s by then... But given the family history, he should still be alive and kicking. And unless he significantly ups the amount on his insurance, he's actually more useful right here...

So, there it is... My ardent admittance of undying love for The Mister. Romantic, wasn't it?

End of Summer

2010-08-22T10:29:00.000-06:00

Well, we knew it was coming to an end... Summer is officially fading, and in the evenings it's becoming even more apparent that Fall is on its way. There is a new bite to the evening breeze that has been absent for the past few months.

A few days ago I noticed the orange tinge on the Japanese maples. The golden flutter is gaining purchase on the aspens in my yard... The evenings are cool and pleasant...

I guess the truest indicator that we're at the end of Summer is that school starts tomorrow. The backpacks have been purchased. School clothes are ready to be hung in the closets. New shoes. Freshly sharpened pencils. The smell of Crayola and Elmer's.

Summer has been really wonderful this year. Days on the boat. Vacations at Lake Powell. Seven Peaks, Trafalga, the local park... Snoasis, BBQs, homemade ice cream. It's been one of the best Summers I can recall. But the truth remains, I love Fall. And I can't wait for it to bloom in all its glory!

It's Back!

2010-08-21T22:04:00.002-06:00

It's back! My topper, it's back! YAY! Where did it go? Who brought it back? YAY!

You know you've got a keeper...

2010-08-16T23:42:00.002-06:00

Every mom likes to think her kid is the best. But once in a while, it's really nice to have someone else confirm it.

Last spring, at early registration time, we attended our scheduled appointment in the counseling center. When HRH gave her name at the front desk, the secretary was so excited to meet her. She told us that she was the resident "talent scout" and that HRH had been requested to work in the counseling office for the upcoming year. HRH was flattered, and when her schedule looked like it would allow it, we signed her up.

Today I took HRH to our local middle school. We are making some significant changes for the coming school year, and we had to withdraw her from the majority of her classes. Upon entering her counselor's office, Mrs. Brown said,

Ah! It's so nice to see you! You are a very popular girl!

We smiled, but had no idea what Mrs. Brown was talking about. Apparently, there was some confusion regarding the request for HRH to work in the counseling center. She was scheduled as an assistant, but there was no information saying where she would be assisting... Mrs. Brown had sent out an email asking who wanted HRH for an aid. She got responses from nearly every teacher saying,

Me! I want her!!!

Unfortunately, nobody at the middle school gets her... She will be otherwise engaged for the year. And I'm going to enjoy having her around a bit more!

So many questions...

2010-08-16T02:32:00.000-06:00

OK, remember when I was updating my blog and I lost everything? Remember how I ranted? Remember how I cried? Remember how I thought I'd never see my photos again? Remember how long it took to get things back up and running? Remember when I uploaded the cute new header with the bees buzzing around? When did that header disappear? How long has it been gone? Where did it go? How do I get it back? Just wondering...

Maggot Mouse

2010-08-16T02:19:00.000-06:00

I know, doesn't that title just scream for your atention?!

I think I've mentioned our family cat in the past... You know, the one who doesn't have a name, doesn't know how to purr, and apparently doesn't know how to say, "No" to the neighborhood Tom. (Yes, we're expecting kittens any day...) That cat, currently being called Floozie, is good at her job. Her job being, of course, keeping the mouse population under control. She's a hard worker, probably underpaid, but exceptionally skilled. My only complaint is that she loves to leave proof of her good work for my inspection. I know, ick... Anyway, we have encountered a new problem...

Enter, Lola...

Lola is not such a dedicated worker. She loves to chew on expensive shoes, steal toothbrushes, and nom on decorative pillows. She is definitely not pulling her weight within the family, and aside from the Cute Factor, she has relatively little to offer.

To counter her lack of contribution to the household, she had taken a new tack. Instead of actually doing anything helpful, like fetching me a Diet Coke, she is trying to steal the cat's thunder. The cat leaves a mouse for my inspection (acceptably discarded in a remote region of the yard)... Lola discovers the mouse... Lola brings the mouse to my very doorstep... Lola tries to bring the mouse into my house. I do not appreciate this new direction that Lola has taken. Lola must drop Maggot Mouse immediately! No, Lola! Not in the house! No! NO!!! Lola is FIRED!

Can someone come get rid of Maggot Mouse? Mister??? Please???

The Dentist

2010-08-12T23:55:00.000-06:00

I have an unreasonable, purely irrational, overwhelmingly unmanageable neurosis regarding my teeth. (I know, I need help...) Anyway, for this reason (the neurosis--keep up!) I searched far and wide, making many errors in judgment, before finding the perfect dentist. And no, "perfect" is not an exaggeration, at least not as far as I'm concerned. In fact, not only is my dentist awesome, his whole staff is top-notch. in fact, I've even consented to see his partner on occasion with outstanding results. But the truth is, I love Dr. Larsen.

I have a good friend who hates her dentist. Of course, it's hard to like any dentist who drills holes in your head without using Novocaine! But here's the rub. She (my friend) requests to be treated without any anesthetic... (And you thought I was neurotic!) Her reasoning is that this gives her bragging rights when talking to her all-brother siblings. I'm sorry, but I don't need the "tough" title that bad...

Recently, this same friend mentioned how much she disliked her dentist and asked if I liked mine. I told her how gentle my dentist is. How painless the treatments. I mentioned how careful he is with my extremely sensitive teeth... She asked where his office was located, and after my response she guffawed--right out loud!

She doesn't think it's necessary to drive from the Greater Salt Lake City Area to the nether regions of the fine state of Utah to find a good dentist. But then what does she know? She lets people drill into her head without numbing it first!

P.S. In case anybody out there cares, the best dentist in Utah practices in HOLDEN!

Weeds

2010-08-06T23:15:00.000-06:00

I have weeds growing in my yard. Not one or two... Lots of weeds. I could argue that I suffer from seasonal allergies. I could complain that weeding is a never-ending and thankless job. I could curse the neighboring yard with it's over-grown tumble of weeds that go to seed and infest my lawn and flowerbeds.

But then I find this...

And a little later, I find this...

And then I find this...

And after appreciating the vibrant colors and interesting shapes,
I figure these photos provide an adequate argument against weeding.
And that is the real reason why I have weeds in my yard.

That's my story... And I'm sticking to it...

The Cabin on the 24th

2010-08-02T00:39:00.002-06:00

I know I'm a little behind in posting these photos, but I wanted to get them up before our next little vacation. We were lucky enough to get to the cabin for the 24th of July (Pioneer Day for those of you not familiar with Utah holidays!). It isn't very often that we get to go to the cabin these days... School, dance schedules, sick days... so many reasons.

But I'm so glad we made it this time! We brought our new paddle boat and the kids had a blast with it! It's like that big box at Christmastime. All the kids want to play in the box instead of playing with their new toys. Someone remind me, why did we buy the big, expensive motor boat when the kids are just as happy pedaling across the lake...?

The Princess captained the maiden voyage onto Puffer Lake.

The Buddies all took a turn powering the watercraft.

Later, we took a hike.

Everyone was a little apprehensive about the posted warning of BEARS!
(pst, Grandma! You are supposed to look scared!)

Then we hiked to this remote location...

We don't know where it got its name--but if this is poison, it sure is beautiful!

We climbed as a group and were able to summit with a minimum of whining...
and only a couple grumpy faces...

The last stop for the day was at the top!

Above the tree-line and with plenty of snow for a snowball fight!

No better way to cool off on a hot July afternoon!

Before we know it, there will be more snow than we can handle! But for this day, this was the perfect ending to a really fun holiday at the cabin!

aaand... Repeat.

2010-08-01T08:28:00.000-06:00

Last night I was telling a friend that I feel like I live in the movie Groundhog Day. Although I have referenced that movie in another post, you should not infer that it is my favorite movie. It's just that it happens to have a significant resemblance to my life.

Anyway, we were discussing the restless point at which we've both arrived. The point at which we are dissatisfied with the status quo. She, being unencumbered by children's school schedules, spouse's work obligations, and other entanglements, is considering making a drastic change to her repetitive life. Me? I am not so flexibly situated.

We discussed her dreams of moving to Europe, Asia, California... And my willingness to visit her in any or all of those exotic locations. I have to admit, the potential for her to pick and move on a whim is more than a little appealing to me. Not that I'd ditch my family (really, I swear that I wouldn't! lol), but there is certainly something appealing about her freedom to change course at will.

After concluding my wistful pondering of her independence, I decided that maybe it's my own fault that I live in Groundhog Day. And maybe, just maybe, relocation wouldn't really resolve anything anyway. After all, for the foreseeable future my life will consist intermittently of packing lunches, walking to the bus stop, afternoon carpools, puking, laundry, washing dishes, cooking, cleaning toilets, and sundry other chores/obligations/duties/privileges. And all of those things will be a part of my life whether I live right here, or somewhere beachy and tropical... But maybe I can still extract myself from this persistent, cinematic cycle.

Since I will be doing all the above whether it's here or somewhere else, maybe it's what else I'm doing that I need to modify. The Boy and I took an excursion to the bike shop on Friday. I have to say, all those shiny new bikes, helmets with cool graphics, and other nifty doodads made me (if only briefly) reconsider my prohibition on cycling. But then I reflected on why I ended my stinted cycling phase... And I remembered that my girlie parts just didn't appreciate that specific form of exercise. So, I guess that I am stuck in the movie until I can find another outlet for my entertainment needs. I've considered golf--but who has that much extra time in a day? I've considered going to the gym... OK, it was never a serious consideration. I contemplated cooking classes, but my hips and thighs are begging me to reconsider... Maybe I'll just take up Olympic-level Shopping. I'm pretty good at shopping... Or speed racing! I can practice while I drive the carpools! Now, that's an idea worth investigating!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2010-08-01T07:31:00.000-06:00

Today is my mom's birthday. We wish her many more years, good health, and lots of adventures! We love you!

Wanted: Reliable Tooth Fairy

2010-07-18T09:31:00.004-06:00

With three little boys, all at the tooth-losing stage, the Tooth Fairy is a regular visitor at our house. JJ initiated the string of visits when he swallowed his first tooth at Johnny Carino's. From there, Zeke joined the fun, and it seems like it's been at least a tooth a week ever since. Max was a little late to get started, but he's doing his level best to catch up... At the current count, JJ is ahead with 6 teeth, the last two within just two days of each other.

After JJ lost that second-to-last tooth, he was devastated to learn that the Tooth Fairy had forgotten to make a stop by our house. And I have a confession, that isn't even the first time that the Tooth Fairy has been lax in her duties. On more than one occasion we've covered for her by sneaking in a dollar that had "slipped down the side of the mattress."

Today, we find that Max will be in need of another visit. After watching the movie The Tooth Fairy this week, I have been pondering the inexplicable reason why our fairy is so unreliable. You would think that being assigned to a family with three little boys, all of whom are perpetually wiggling away to achieve tooth self-extraction, that fairy would understand the necessary state of high-alert attached to this particular assignment. This assignment has the potential to be extremely high-profile, with varied challenges, and a demanding schedule. No time for sleeping on the job here!

As evening approaches, I will make sure to do all I can to accommodate our much-anticipated, winged visitor. Doggy will be secured in another bedroom. The cat will be appropriately banished to the garage. The teens will be otherwise enchanted, and the adults will feign ignorance. Tooth Fairy, feel free to make it an early visit! We're ready!

Meet Max

2010-07-17T22:08:00.001-06:00

It's nearly 10pm and I just checked on The Buddies... (Technically, I was gathering laundry from their bedrooms, but whatever...) Anyway, Max peeks up from his jumble of blankets, with a big smile on his face, to say,

Mom, today was the best day ever!

And knowing Max like I do, that is exactly what I would expect him to say.

It doesn't matter what we do, where we go, how many errands we have to run, or how many things go wrong... Each and every day, Max informs me that it has been the best day ever.

A friend (also a frequent commenter to my blog--Travel By Turtle) recently linked me to an article about the contagious effect of moods. Can you imagine the happiness we could spread if we all thought that every day was The Best Day Ever? In an effort to infect the masses (or at least my family) I'm going to dedicate this week to spreading as many fun and happy thoughts as possible.

I dare you to join me! You know you want to!

Vegas, Baby!

2010-07-16T09:20:00.001-06:00

Las Vegas has held an ever-changing place in my life for as long as I can remember. As a kid, it was the unavoidable stopping point between home and the magic of Disneyland. We stayed at The Sands, where grandma dropped coins into the slot machines, we all ate too much at the buffet, and Tom and I splashed in the pool.

Later in life, I remember driving through and thinking,

How could anyone live in Las Vegas? I'm sure glad I don't live in Vegas...

Later, I did live in Las Vegas. And against all odds, it became my beloved home. I loved our neighborhood, walks along the park trails, our friends, just about everything (except the heat).

Now, Vegas holds another title, it isn't merely a stopping point, it isn't home, but it has become a fun destination for me. I love the shows, the food, the music... But most of all, I love to see old friends.

Last week I took The Girls (HRH and friend) to Las Vegas for a dance convention. We were transfixed by Cirque du Soleil's KA, and we ate at BB Kings's Diner where we enjoyed some raucous, live Jazz music. We shopped, explored, and I spent the morning with a friend.

While there is nothing like the excitement of Las Vegas, my favorite moments from last week were spent over a fun-filled, sweet potato pancake accompanied breakfast visit. I'm not sure which I found sweeter... The candied pecans or the warm feeling of meeting with a friend and catching up on family achievements. Lisa, I had a great time, thanks!

Happy Fourth!

2010-07-04T23:31:00.001-06:00

There's always a bit of confusion when a holiday like The Fourth of July lands on a Sunday. Do you celebrate on the actual day, the day before, the day after...? For me, the confusion is amplified by the fact that our traditional activities have evolved. Actually, maybe they haven't evolved as much as they've fizzled out a bit.

Let's just say that July 4th was always a big deal when I was growing up in Fillmore. In fact, it was even a big deal when I moved away. I know that I am not unlike many other people, many of us return year after year... The Mister didn't exactly see the draw of the Fourth of July in a small town. Luckily, he was always a good sport and went along with it. In fact, he started attending the festivities with me even before we were married.

There's something All-American about a hometown parade, games in the park, fireworks on the baseball field... I'll never forget those amazing days full of Popsicles, watermelon slices, games in the park, talent shows, and falling into bed after the fireworks (with a blooming sunburn).

Now that my parents have moved away, Fillmore just isn't the same for us. Sure, we could still drive down for the day, but it isn't the same without a shady backyard to hang out in... Ice cream maker slaving away, mom's pasta salad chilling in the fridge, water fights, and evening sparklers...

And it makes me sad to think that my kids will miss out on all of that. Sadly, we no longer see fireworks light up the sky. We don't decorate bikes and wagons for a kid-powered cruise down Main. We don't throw balls at the Dunk Tank, eat Navajo tacos, or ride on the bouncy wagon. We don't sit in the back of a pick-up truck and cheer the fire trucks, cheerleaders, and football team. It certainly isn't the Fourth that I remember.

This year was especially quiet for us. Maybe we can make up for it with some fun festivities tomorrow. I guess this is our chance at a Do Over... Maybe it's a good thing that July 4th fell on a Sunday this year...

Fun at the Bean's

2010-06-29T22:20:00.000-06:00

It's great when it takes so little to make so many kids happy. A sprinkler attached to a garden hose. Genius!

I'm Cooler than My Kids

2010-06-27T19:33:00.000-06:00

For the past few weeks I've had my eye on a new cell phone. Lucky for me (or unluckily, however you look at it), my current phone started to freak out just as my dream phone was coming to market. That gave me ample excuse to go out and buy it. Of course, it isn't ever really as simple as that. I am, after all, a supreme addict to research. I rechecked Consumer Reports, CNET, PC Mag, and every other reference I could find. And after confirming (once again) that this was really the phone I wanted, I started my search in earnest.

Along with being a dedicated researcher, I am also a bargain shopper... I watched for a phone being offered at an acceptable price through ebay and the classifieds. And when the right one came along, I snapped it up!

And now, for the first time since my two oldest children entered their teens, I am cool. I have the coveted phone. The phone they both desire. That makes me the Rock Star... And I'm gonna enjoy it for the 30 seconds that it lasts! Oops, time's up! Oh well...

A Very Good Day.

2010-06-24T07:22:00.000-06:00

Some days it seems like the whole world is spinning in the wrong direction. Work isn't going well, the house is a wreck, the kids are bickering more than usual, it's too hot, too cold, not enough, or too much.

But then there are those other days. The ones that seem almost magical in the way things fall into place. Yesterday was one of those days, one of the magical days. From first thing in the morning until falling into bed, it seems like everything went exactly my way.

I know, it was a fluke, and I'm a lucky, lucky girl to have had such a day. But I have to wonder, how would it be to have a whole life that proceeded at such a smooth and extraordinarily non-ordinary manner? Would it be heaven? Or would I just dismiss the magical quality and see it as life as usual?

Maybe that's the magic of magic. Maybe the thing that makes it so special is that it's infrequent and unexpected. Maybe it wouldn't really be anything to anticipate if it was a lifetime. I think I'll just be grateful for yesterday, and I'll smile through today as I think about yesterday's unanticipated enchantment.

Beach weaners and other things.

2010-06-08T22:13:00.000-06:00

I hate to unpack. I never remove and put away anything from my suitcases after returning from a trip. The items just remain in my bags... until I need them... Once I discover that I need an item that has traveled with me, I remove only that one item. I use it and only then do I return it to its proper place. It can take weeks (months?) for me to return everything to the closets, shelves, drawers... I know. I have issues...

What, you might ask, does any of this packing/unpacking have to do with the title of this post? Well, it would seem that my lack of love for unpacking extends itself to school backpacks. Many times I have opened the backpacks in the morning, as the kids are scrambling to get to the bus stop. Only at that late moment have I realized that an item was being requested for the day, there was a homework assignment that didn't get done, or that something (what is that?) was left in the backpack for waaaayyyy too long.

Just within the last couple of days, I finally unpacked The Buddies school backpacks. Yes, I know school has been out for a couple of weeks now, but hey, at least I got around to it. And I found that I thoroughly enjoyed the treasures that I found inside. JJ's backpack was harboring a crumpled writing book. In this notebook he had jotted notes, sayings, thoughts, and maybe he had copied a few things that his teacher had written on the board. The first entry was simply the written alphabet in capital letters. A later entry noted that his brother attended his birthday party (don't brothers usually attend?). There were notes about dinosaurs, Disneyland, and roller coasters. Another entry read like this:

A box is a house for a shoe.
A desk is a house for a pencil.
A house is a home for a family.
The world is a home for me!

But my favorite was this:

Baby pigs are piglets.
Baby goats are kids.
Baby seals are beach weaners.

That's right... Beach Weaners...??? Where does he learn this stuff? Kids today... They're so much smarter than we were at that age...

Sunday Morning

2010-06-06T09:18:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I'm lucky enough to have a quiet morning at home. A morning when The Mister isn't rushing out to catch a plane... The Buddies aren't about to miss the bus... HRH doesn't have dance class... And The Boy has no plans more pressing than playing DS in his pajamas. They don't come along often, but those are the great mornings.

Today was a great morning. Lola woke me with her gentle snuggling (please don't comment on the fact that she sleeps in my room). I didn't wake to find the sun blinding me at an unreasonable hour. The wind wasn't howling. The kids weren't arguing. The Mister wasn't vacuuming his boat (really, should he be doing that at 5 am? Because, you know, he does... sometimes...). It was a genuinely quiet and peaceful morning.

I rolled out of bed to take Lola out. The birds were chirping. The sun was cresting the snow-topped mountains as it peeked around the edges of a fluffy, white cloud. The rays of the sun were skimming across the peaks of the hill-top ridges. The air was still, cool, and welcome.

I peeled some peaches for a cobbler--is that an appropriate breakfast item? It smelled great as it baked. Peaches, vanilla, a touch of cinnamon... Yep, it was a great morning. Wish you were here...

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T21:09:00.000-06:00

After a fun day out on the lake with my family, I'm enjoying a relaxing evening at home. The kids are freshly scrubbed and in their jammies. The friends have all gone home. I'm sunburned in a warm glowy kind-of-way, as opposed to the miserably fried kind-of-way... And as I just said to The Mister, I love holidays that fall on a Monday. We got to enjoy all the fun and togetherness of a Saturday, but tomorrow we don't have to rush off to church meetings and obligations... It's a bit of a perfect scenario.

Memorial Day has always been meaningful for my family. While we spent today on the lake, I remember many a Memorial Day spent driving from one cemetery to another to clean the family headstones and place mums or other florals upon the graves. In the past few years there have been several additions to the graves that we visit... Not only have some of our loved ones passed away, but through genealogy, we have identified other lost family members. I joke that I don't want to take over the "older" generation's commitment to the cemetery pilgrimage... But the truth is, I'm glad they do it, and I hope that somehow it will continue to get done.

And for those who have served, and who continue to serve our country, Thank You. You, too are remembered today. And I'm certainly grateful for all you have done to serve me, my family, and our glorious country.

Invasion of the Shutter Snappers

2010-05-25T20:21:00.000-06:00

I live in a picturesque neighborhood. It's not my opinion, it's just a fact. As proof, I offer today's activity.

This evening we had an invasion of shutterbugs. We first noticed the strange girl in the colorful dress... She was standing out on the point, taking pictures of herself with the assistance of a remote shutter release and a tripod. Just in case you were wondering, the poses were interesting, as was the outfit. Let's just say that I'm not one to put a print dress with purple tights and blue shoes and a cherry-red sweater...

While colorful-dress-girl was shooting herself just off my back deck, short-shorts-girl was shooting from across the street in front of my house. She appeared to be shooting the landscape (not herself) which is the real reason why most people chose to practice their photography skills around here. And it probably made for a prettier subject, not that she wasn't cute (after all, who am I to judge...) but she was wearing bright orange short-shorts with her green sweatshirt and hiking shoes...

While short-shorts-girl and colorful-dress-girl were walking back to their modes of transportation, yellow-car-dude pulled up. He appeared to be into shooting the view, and brought with him a cheering section of children... Maybe he should have included them in the view shots...?

Anyway, the light is fading and the shutter snappers have fled ahead of the swatting that I was tempted to deliver... I love my view... MY view...

Flamingos don't like snow

2010-05-24T07:52:00.003-06:00

This flamingo picked the wrong place to stop.

The weather isn't exactly balmy out...

(photo taken in my front yard this morning)
***
(and no, I don't usually decorate with flamingos!)

night at the ballet

2010-05-21T19:43:00.001-06:00

If it isn't one thing...

2010-05-19T23:01:00.001-06:00

Well, the fun just keeps rolling... It would appear that while iMac was off getting his innards replaced (again) the tech fairy was having a little fun at my expense. I can't seem to find the cables that connect my camera to my computer... hmmm...

I think I took some great photos today and (although I'm hesitant to trust my not-so-trusty iMac to store and protect them) I would still like to upload and preview them. But maybe it's better this way. I won't embarrass myself by advertising my lacking photography skills... And the afore mentioned photos will stay safely in my camera--where they are unlikely to suddenly and inexplicable disappear.

So, imagine that this post is accompanied by really incredible photos. The gray clouds breaking apart. Just enough early morning sunlight spilling through to illuminate the glittering beads of rain clinging to the tender limbs of my blossoming trees and bushes... The luscious, verdant quality of my lawn. The graphic twisting and contorting of the darkly wet branches of the scrub oak... The crisp white mountain peaks in the background... Because I'm sure that is exactly what I caught with my camera lens... yeah... I'm sure... It was awesome!

7-Eleven

2010-05-16T20:48:00.002-06:00

Do you remember Summers spent in flip-flops and rainbow t-shirts? Lying on the driveway to get warm after running through the sprinklers? Tire swings, tree houses, and sand boxes? Those things speak of my childhood Summers.

I grew up in a small town. No stop lights, no grocery shopping on Sunday. No fences between neighbors. Backyards that were shared by all the neighborhood kids. Block parties, freeze tag, and tubing down the creek... Winget's for treats on the walk home from the pool. Cluff's for Cokes, and the POD for dances... But no 7-Eleven. My Summers were filled with fun and excitement, but what I really wanted was a Slurpee.

Slurpees--the epitome of Summertime treats. The one thing (besides grape Mike & Ikes) that I craved while pregnant with HRH. That cold, refreshing, burst of icy, sugary syrup. That drink that leaves a tell-tale sign if your teeth aren't freshly brushed. That supreme creator of Brain Freeze, served with a spoon-bottomed drinking straw. That was always my wish for the perfect Summer treat.

Last week I noticed a change on the corner of 1200 W Center. The Sev was still there, but where did the gas pumps go? It's not like I make a habit of stopping at 7-Eleven to fill my tank (I prefer the prices at Costco). But if I were to be in need of a little topping-off, I would certainly consider The Sev as a great place for filling the car (while fulfilling my own snacking and beverage needs). But now, without the gas pumps, I'm not sure I will ever stop at 7-Eleven... I just don't see myself needing the calories and caffeine enough to make the extra stop for snacks.

After noticing the removal of the 1200 W Center pumps, I saw the thing that actually gave rise to this post... There is a new shopping center going in on State Street. There is a sandwich shop, a scooter store, a restaurant, and something new going in. For days, every time I passed by, I tried to figure out what the new business would be... I was stumped, as the colors looked like a 7-Eleven, but it seemed like such an odd location for a gas station... That's when it occurred to me, The Sev is no longer a gas station... And, although that is how I have always seen it, maybe it never really was just a stopping point for refueling. I'll be interested to see how many people stop in for a Slurpee after going to The Chev or Costco for refueling.

The Green Sloth

2010-05-16T07:54:00.000-06:00

If you have children who watch Animal Planet, then you may have been introduced to the sloth. It's funny, but that slow-moving animal is exactly what I keep thinking about in regard to Spring this year.

I've been watching for changes in my backyard for the past few weeks. I keep waiting for the little buds to appear and spread their green across the bare branches of the scrub oak trees. The truth is, while the aspens have budded (and then frozen, turning a sickly black), the scrub oak are as barren as they were when the snow began to fly last Fall.

I can't help but compare the slow progress of my landscape's rebirth to the slowness of the sloth. Did you know that the sloth can remain motionless for nearly indefinite amounts of time? And that it can sleep for 20 hours a day? That it is so slow-moving that it actually turns green from the algae that grows on its fur? I think Spring has taken on a slothful nature and complacency. I wish I could shake things up a bit and get things moving! I'm afraid that if the little buds don't get to work soon, the only green I'll be seeing on my trees this year is that same algae that grows on the back of the sloth!

I'm moving on.

2010-05-15T23:02:00.000-06:00

I've attempted everything in my power--I've even attempted some things that turned out to be outside of my power... But I still cannot recover any more of my photos. It looks like I've lost everything since sometime before Christmas. That means no Christmas, New Years, or The Buddies' Birthday. No Nutcracker, no Hansel, no Gretel, no forest friends... No Easter, nor birthday for The Boy. Sadly, those photos are no longer with us.

Can we have a moments of silence, please?

Ok--now I'll move on.

But tell me, how does everyone else back up their data? Carbonite claims to have found additions photos (they claim 999) that were corrupt and unrecoverable. What's the use of that? Is there a better way to safely save duplications of the photos I take? We have an external hard drive, but those don't always seem reliable either. Suggestions?

It's a sad, sad day...

2010-05-10T22:26:00.000-06:00

Well, after nearly a week, our iMac file recovery is complete... Or, more accurately, it's finished, but the files are incomplete. I've lost thousands of photos. And who knows what else...?

Words cannot adequately describe how I feel at this moment. I'm sick, sad, frustrated, annoyed, incensed, angry, and generally despondent. Although I'm stymied as to why Carbonite didn't seem to back up everything, mostly I'm just highly irritated that this happened at all. Apple has the worst customer service around, and their warranty is pathetic, too. I can't believe that I find myself in this situation for the second time in less than a year! And they offer no help or assistance.

I know the iPad just came out... And the iPhone will keep vying for attention... But don't talk to me about Apple products right now. I'm NOT a happy camper!

Still Waiting...

2010-05-09T10:28:00.000-06:00

I've had my fingers crossed for nearly a week now... I sincerely hope that the pretzelification of my hands is reversible. I guess we'll know once I get a peek at the restored files on iMac. If the restore wasn't successful, it will be devastating.

We are at 91.1% restored and (so far) not a hint of any digital images has reappeared. I have to admit that I'm getting a little nervous! But The Mister keeps insisting that they were the last to reappear last time, too. How unfortunate is it that we even had a last time to compare it with! I've got to do some serious thinking about why we've had such bad luck with the iMac. Apple likes to continue to insist that it's just my bad luck. Ironic, since I've always considered myself to be lucky. I have to believe that there is an inherent problem with the design somewhere...

School is coming to an end for the year, and HRH has been a little frustrated with the unavailability of iMac. It's hard to do your homework without reliable technology. I feel her pain... I'm frustrated by not being able to upload and edit photos, download my BodyBugg data, or keep on top of the blog... I'm sure you're all frustrated by my lack of consistent blogging--don't despair, it will get better. (lol)

For the past week, we've been placing bets on how long the restore will take. The Mister's guess expired yesterday at 1pm. My prediction is for later today... Maybe early evening... Although my initial guess was the first one to lapse, so what do I know?

Wish us luck! I hope Monday brings happy news, along with the rain!

Yay!

2010-05-05T22:25:00.000-06:00

Well--I hope it's a "yay." We got iMac back yesterday afternoon and began to recover the lost data. We're only half way through the restore process, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we will recover everything.

In the meantime, life is just rolling along. I've had a very frustrating week, and I don't see it getting better anytime soon. It's amazing how easy it is to let other people affect your mood.

But enough about that--fingers crossed that the recovery works. Hopefully I'll be back online tomorrow!

And again... Arg!

2010-04-22T18:18:00.000-06:00

Just a quick update to tell you that I'm not running from my obligations as a blogger... Quite the opposite! I have some beautiful photos of HRH dancing in the Hansel and Gretel Ballet that I'd love to share... BUT, my Mac crashed (again!) taking photos, email, and everything else with it.

Two years ago we were talked into moving everything from PC to Mac. We were convinced it was more stable, more reliable, more everything... That has not been our experience. This is the second hard drive we've crashed. I just hope that Carbonite had everything backed up!

Hansel & Gretel

2010-04-16T22:24:00.003-06:00

HRH performed in CBA's production of Hansel and Gretel this evening at the Covey Center. She's been dancing the role of Gretel as an understudy--I only wish she would have the opportunity to perform it for an audience! These dancers have put in an unbelievable amount of time preparing for this show. I can't wait to see it!

HRH did a beautiful job in the rolls of Friend and Dew Drop Fairy. She will be dancing the role of Candy Cane for one of the next performances. It's always fun to watch an additional performance to see the changes that result simply from the cast variations.

In the photo at left, HRH is the girl in front. Isn't she beautiful?! I think she was the most amazing dancer on the stage... I love to watch her dance--I can't believe how talented she it!

Now, it's off to bed, I have to have her back at the theater for an early call for tomorrow's matinee. If you have a spare hour or two, come watch the show!

Lola: Flies

2010-04-15T12:33:00.000-06:00

I'd like to introduce you to the Incredible Flying Lola.

Faster than a speeding bullet.
More powerful than a locomotive.
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.
Not a bird! Nor a plane! It's our Super Hound!

Note: this is not the typical positioning of her ears...

While you are contemplating the outstanding agility and overwhelming talent of this beautiful specimen, let me regale you with her latest endeavor.

Lola is part Beagle (note the cute face and floppy ears). While we adored her upon sight, it's only been since getting to really know her that we've come to appreciate her unique talents. Being part Hound, she loves to sniffle everything. (Big surprise, right?) I think she could find her way home from the moon if she had anything to scent along the way.

But it's the Shepherd part of her that is proving interesting. Being a shepherd, Lola likes to herd things. She likes to round up the toys, the boys, just about anything. But I was surprised at her attentiveness to a new endeavor last night.

I watched Lola for several minutes last night. Her behavior was curious, and I worried that her mental health was on the wane. She wasn't chasing her tail (she hasn't one...). She wasn't baying at the moon (she is more of the quiet Aussie temperament). And yet, her actions were quite puzzling. Lola was walking circles around the chair in my bedroom. Around the chair, over the legs of the lamp, along the front of the chair, and back around to the corner. Over and over she did this. The only respite from this curiously circuitous course was a brief interlude during which she would gaze at the window.

After several minutes of this strange behavior, I understood what she was doing. Lola was gazing, not at the window, but at a fly on the window. And her repetitive path followed the fly from its landing spot on the window to its migratory finale at the light of the lamp. I'm convinced that Lola thought she was herding the fly. From the window to the lamp. From the lamp to the window... Around and around they went.

I pondered the magnificence of this simple, yet concentrated effort. I wish I could instill that same stick-to-it-ive-ness in my children when it comes to homework...

Update...

2010-04-14T23:05:00.001-06:00

I've been asked if I'm giving up the blog...
The question should be,

Have you given up the ghost?

The answer is "no" (to both questions). Although a double ear infection with a ruptured ear drum, a sore throat, a stuffy nose, a debilitating cough, and an officially diagnosed case of bronchitis left me feeling like death only moderately warmed over. But I'm getting better *cough cough (hacking) cough* Sorry...

And I've decided that it's definitely time to get better now. I've taken my antibiotics. I'm wired from Sudafed. I've slept, read, and slept some more. And now I am going to be well... I'm terribly determined about this...

So if you're feeling especially generous, and full of goodwill, please send happy thoughts and good karma my way.

Thanks.

April Snow

2010-04-13T10:03:00.000-06:00

It's April, and the forsythia is blooming in the valley. The tulips and daffodils are shyly peeking from their beds. There are kittens and bunnies and little, blue birds... But this month that (at least in my mind) typifies annual renewal is still aslumber in my neighborhood.

It snowed last night. It wasn't a howling, pelting, winter snow. Instead, it fell quietly in the night, settling into cracks and crevices... Muting the sounds of the night, and dampening the usual activities of nature. The dense white carpeted everything, obscuring the fine lines of the landscape. The thick whiteness gathered in the crooks of limbs. It lay where it fell, not swept into drifts, but rather accumulating where it alighted.

Lola enjoyed the spring surprise. Without the wind to torment her, the downy ground cover made for a joyful morning out. She explored the newly fresh backyard. She ran and bounded, jumped and chased. Her enthusiasm unhindered by her cold, damp surroundings. I wish The Buddies were still on Spring Break. This is the perfect snow for building a snowman and for launching an attack of the snowball variety. I hope there's enough snow left by the end of the day for one last wintry outing.

Of course, with my luck, there will be plenty more opportunities for fun in the snow. This is, you may recall, the land of Perpetual Winter. We may find ourselves snowed in at least one more time before the Fourth of July!

Signs of Spring

2010-04-10T19:41:00.001-06:00

Spring Break came a little late this year. It's the second week of April, and we've been enjoying a little time off from homework and career obligations. From the looks of things outside our cabin windows, you wouldn't think it looks much like spring, but there are signs...

Our celebrations included jubilant joyrides down the hillside,

quick turns on the snowmobile,

snow forts and tunnels, snowball fights,

and all the requisite, accompanying diversions.

We sat around the fire, toasted marshmallows for s'mores, drank hot chocolate, and ate our fill of Easter candy. But the true indication that Spring was imminent was the appearance of this little guy.

I don't purport to be a birdwatcher, and I'm no ornithologist, but as far as I'm concerned, this little guy is a pretty good indicator of Spring. Every year, he shows up with his charming mate and they move into the birdhouse on the north side of the cabin.

And for the record, Summer will have officially arrived when we hear the tiny peeps of their multiplying, little family.

An Unfinished Project...

2010-04-07T11:31:00.000-06:00

I've been working on a new project (or possibly a couple of simultaneous projects!). My new blog is one those projects. I haven't been posting, because I've been trying to get the html code all edited to my satisfaction. But here we are, and it is certainly still a work in progress... and the code is still lacking. Somehow I am unable to get three columns, and that makes it hard to including all the content I want--there just isn't room! It's rather annoying, but less annoying than having all my posts and photos disappear!

So, I'm back! And we'll all have to live with the restricted format until I can wrap my brain around all the jumbles of code... I'll get back to it sooner or later.

BTW--I hope everyone had a fun Spring Break! We're doing our best to enjoy ours right now!

I'm not dead...

2010-04-06T21:06:00.000-06:00

...at least not yet.

Just thought you might want to know.

something's brewing

2010-03-26T22:46:00.000-06:00

It isn't the snow storm. It isn't a fight. It isn't a stew in the kettle.

It isn't the flu. It isn't my temper. It isn't a squabble to settle.

But something is brewing, and I think I know
Just what that something might be...

It's a growing compulsion
To set into motion

A new obsession for me!

Temporary Tragedy

2010-03-23T23:00:00.000-06:00

Have you ever noticed that tragedy strikes when you least expect it? I had one of those heart-stopping moments just this evening. I was plucking along, making improvements to my life, my blog, my online presence... And the unthinkable happened.

Now, not to get all shallow on you again, but tonight I made a serious mistake while updating my blog. I accidentally deleted the whole template. I mean the whole template. That includes formatting, photos, links, you name it... I just sat here and stared at the computer screen... I didn't utter a four-letter word, because there were no words to adequately describe how I felt. I have to be honest, I was a little sick to my stomach. Does that make me spectacularly shallow, or what?

Anyway, as dumb luck would have it. I actually did find a backup of my original template. Of course, I didn't find it until after I tried (unsuccessfully) to replace it with myriad other templates. So, for those of you who logged in earlier today (mom?), I hope you weren't caused any lasting distress by the unreadable and generally disjointed content of my blog. I know how you look forward to my blogging (lol) and I assure you that I'll be more careful in all future attempts to beautify my blog.

I know we will all rest a little easier knowing that I've learned my lesson: Always backup your incredibly important files.

Thank you for your support. :)

First Day of Spring

2010-03-21T21:52:00.000-06:00

The First Day of Spring. It came and went--and I missed it! I was too busy throwing a frisbee to a puppy, sitting out in the sunshine, going for a walk (and then another one), running errands with the sunroof open... Oh. Maybe I didn't miss it after all!

Happy Spring, everyone!

Meet Lola

2010-03-21T11:18:00.003-06:00

I'm not sure how it happened, but my kids talked me into this:

Her name is Lola. She's a beagle-Aussie mix.

Now, before you get all judgmental on me, I already admit to a certain amount of anxiety about this decision. But, HRH has always wanted a dog, and we've promised her one for years.

She promised that she would clean up the poo (which she has already done several times), take Lola for a walk (repeatedly done), feed her, water her, take her to do her business at all hours...

And now HRH is working on this:

Sit, Lola. Good Girl!

I think this is going to be OK. Oh, and about the cutie from Friday?
We decided that we really didn't want to do the whole puppy thing.
We decided that 5-month old Lola, with her little bit of training,
was a better way to go.

Isn't she cute?

2010-03-19T19:33:00.002-06:00

Me? I am shallow...

2010-03-18T21:53:00.000-06:00

The Mister has a favorite quote that he frequently recites from the 1986 movie The Money Pit:

I am shallow and self-centered. But you... you are "complex."

The Mister has often used this quote when speaking about our relationship. But I think he has just reevaluated exactly who is whom in the shallow/complex relationship. The Mister just finished catching up on my blog, and he informs me that I am at risk of being labeled shallow. I wonder, after 15 years, is he really just now figuring that out?

Oh well, I guess I can live with that!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T10:05:00.002-06:00

In the Unlikely Event...

2010-03-16T22:40:00.000-06:00

On the evening news, I listened as the newscaster re-capped the story about the disappearance of a local woman. I watched as images of her flashed across the screen. This slide show of photos made me think... Would she have chosen those specific photos to share with the public?

It's weird isn't it? Sometimes I look at photos of people who have been lost and are later found. I wonder, would I have recognized that person if I had passed him or her on the street? Are the photos shared with the public good representations of how these people really appear? I'm not sure I would have recognized Elizabeth Smart from her photos... It's hard enough for me to recognize family resemblances... Could I really pick out the features of a stranger just from a photo? Could I recognize a stranger whose photo I had only briefly seen? What about seeing that person out of context--would they even seem familiar?

All I really know is this... There are many photos of me that I hope never see the light of day. I certainly don't want them broadcast across the local or national airwaves. In fact, I think I'd rather not be recognized at all, rather than be recognized by some of those photos.

You hear about celebrities whose obituaries are written years in advance. These seemingly-posthumously written tributes are continually updated. I'm going to work with that idea. On my computer, I am going to create an in case photo file. This file will not include the bikini era. It will exclude the post-triplet baby-fat era. It will bypass the what was I thinking hair-style era. I think it will focus strongly on the thanks for Photoshopping that era. The photos in this file with be resplendent in rich color (no gray hair, please), expert airbrush techniques, and digital enhancements (can you slim that thigh a little?). The wind-blown hair, pouty-lipped look will be optional, used only as required.

If I ever go missing, due to head-trauma induced amnesia or anything else, will someone please remind The Mister not to use any photos unless they come from this pre-approved file? If not, I might find myself in Arkansas or somewhere, too humiliated to return home.

Thank you in advance for your assistance in this matter.

Warmer

2010-03-15T21:05:00.000-06:00

No more tender snowflakes. The wind-drifted snow is no longer light and fluffy, now resembling crystal and glass instead of lofty down. The early breath of spring has burnished the mounds of snow to create polished swaths of translucent cornices and weeping icicles.

The grass is peeking through the bleached landscape. Reluctant to make an appearance. Hesitating lest it be too soon.

The trees are skeptical. Feeling the sunshine, yet sensing the chill of the still indecisive elements.

Spring is coming... Swirling through the branches and across the valley. It may retreat, but it's here for a brief moment and I will enjoy it while it lasts.