Grammie Gabs

Lucky #13

2012-02-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I ran the Surf City Half Marathon in Huntington Beach with 17,000 people. The race itself was really great. We ran mostly along PCH with the water on one side. The weather was warmer than I expected, never a good thing for this runner. After the race, I experienced the worst cramping in both my calves that I have ever had. I am talking, crying and yelling on the car ride home. Poor Mark was trying to give suggestions on what to do, which only upset me further. I liken the pain to contractions during childbirth (yes, that bad) and his suggestions were as annoying as anything he might have said during childbirth as well! It lasted for quite a while and the result is that today, both calves are still rock hard. If I sit too long, it is tough to get going.
Reading this, you probably ask the question, "Then why do it?" I willingly signed up for the race. It was my 8th half marathon in less than two years. I knew what I was getting into for sure. Although I have never had quite that bad of a post race experience, there is always some stiffness and soreness after running 13.1 miles. However, there is also the euphoric feeling of accomplishment and pleasure at the end of the race that is an even bigger feeling than the pain. I guess that is where the analogy of childbirth may come in again. For all the pain and tears, people keep having babies. Besides the pain, often forgotten shortly after the experience itself, is the pure joy and bliss that comes from holding that new, perfect creature in your arms. Worth the pain, we say, worth it for sure!!

I'll Try

2012-01-31T12:55:00.000-08:00

Whenever someone says to me, "I'll try to be there.", I most often mark them as a "no". Although some may say trying is a noble thing, I disagree. Like the sign says, DO or DO NOT. I know for myself, I make time for what I truly want to do. I make time for people I really want to be around. I get work finished that I want to accomplish. Trying is often an excuse word when we really mean no. No, I won't make time for your request. No, I won't make time to hang out with people I don't enjoy. No, I won't get to my goals set for today, this week, etc. Telling someone that we'll try is easier than telling them no. It is an avoidance mechanism that we have all used. It often helps us skirt the issue and put off the real answer ~ no.
Say what you mean. Mean what you say. Don't try ~ do it!

Women's Conference ~ Part One

2012-01-28T09:08:00.000-08:00

This was in my fortune cookie last night. It seems fitting after the week I had producing the Expand Your Horizons Women's Conference at the Nixon Library. It is the culmination of a five year dream of mine to produce a women's conference. All in all, it was 95% positive and the feedback we have received from people has been heart warming. So many elements go into creating any event, you forget some of the little details that make it, as I like to say, go from good to GREAT!
We were lucky enough to have professional photographers capture the morning and I am so excited to see it all through their creative lens. This is only a small post about the conference with more to follow once the photos are in to help tell the story.

Here's part of my opening speech:

Good Morning! Welcome to the Expand Your Horizons Women’s Conference. We are so glad you are here.

I am Susan Svoboda & this is Elisa Dilabio. We are the producers of today’s event. Looking out at all of you gathered here, in this beautiful setting, on this sunny morning, says to me that dreams DO come true! This conference has been a dream of mine for over 5 years. I have always believed that women are excellent at supporting and helping each other. Last July, I shared this dream with Elisa and she said, “When do we start?” Together, we have worked hard to assure that this day is one you won’t forget. We searched for speakers and topics that would encourage, inspire and teach you. Today, we have some incredible women as your speakers. Some we have known for many years and some we met just recently. Their topics vary, but what they all have in common is a willingness to share some of what they know with others. We’d like to thank them for giving of their time and talents. Ladies, please stand.

It has been said that the only dreams that matter are the ones you have when you are awake. We challenge each of you to ask yourself ~ What is my dream? What can I do to get closer to realizing my dream? Our goal today is to inspire you to reach a little higher, think a little more, and believe in yourself and your dreams.

Hands Down!

2012-01-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

If this isn't a perfect photograph depicting Abbey's personality, I don't know what is! #3 does things when she wants, as she wants and will not be coaxed into dispensing smiles upon command. Ahhh, but when she does offer you one of her beautiful smiles, you feel washed over in sunshine and goodness.
Smart as a whip with a memory that scares me daily, she keeps me on my toes. Driving, she will start many sentences with, "Remember when we went here and...". She recalls minute details that have long left my brain. She is never wrong in her recount of the event. I am blessed and amazed by her daily!

My Kids

2012-01-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

Al I have ever wanted for my children is two things ~ for them to be happy & to be productive citizens. Watching their relationships and seeing their happiness, makes it spill on to me as well. The road of relationships is neither a straight line nor without its share of bumps. The point is, it is worth the ride. Having the right person next to you, makes the journey even better. I hope, when times get rocky, they can recall the many reasons they first wanted to share their life with this person. In my opinion, if you can recall it, you can always get back to it.

Making Memories

2012-01-14T15:06:00.000-08:00

The whole family went to Disneyland this week to celebrate January birthdays, specifically, Abigail's. It was probably the best day we have ever had there, with picture postcard weather and VERY few people. We were definitely spoiled for future visits. For some reason, Pa really wanted to go on the water rapids ride in California Adventure. Jack and Abbey didn't make the height requirement, so daddy stayed behind with them, while Pa, Grammie, Amber, Maddy, Tyler & Emily went on the ride. Lest there be any doubt, YES, you get wet! For some reason, my seat was the one that didn't just get splashed a little, it got pummeled with huge waves of water leaving me the most soaked out of the riders. For whatever reason, this was seen as a total delight to all my family.

My hair was wet. My shirt was wet. My jeans were not wet ~ they were soaked!!

Five hours after the ride, you could still feel how wet the pockets were on my jeans!
At the end of a 12 hour day, we went around and asked, "What was your favorite ride AND what was your favorite memory of the day?" Hands down, my drenching came to the top of everyone's list. There's just something about mom (now, grammie) getting the brunt of any joke. In the past, I would have taken offense to this and felt like my family was being mean to me. I was not very good at laughing at myself. This day, however, I realized that these very people who were laughing at my miserable, soaked state were be the same ones who would run through fire for me. They would rescue me. They would protect me. They would make sure I was okay, no matter what!
Knowing that, makes a little bone chilling soaking kind of warm you up! You make memories when you least expect it. It is often in the small things not planned, but later, so cherished.

AMSR

2012-01-09T09:20:00.000-08:00

Thirty two years ago today, at 4:40am, I became a mother ~ the hardest job you'll ever love, as the saying goes. My daughter is a wonderful woman who juggles a very busy life filled with her own children, a husband who travels a lot, a job, many friends and more. She is like me in many ways and very unlike me in other ways. I would say we have a fiercely honest relationship with each other. Who else could say to me, "God, mother, you're not wearing that, are you?!?!" She calls me on my judgmental-ness and often asks me questions I don't want to answer. I, on the other hand, offer suggestions and ideas, sometimes pushing and prodding, that she may or may not want. She is my best friend and when we are at odds with each other, it makes me feel like something in my day is just not quite right. The level that we clash is less than the level that we love.
I quickly grabbed old pictures for this blog and, after looking at what I had, I realized that the men in her life are in some pictures ~ her first love (father), thorny love (brother), everlasting love (husband). They each have their arms around her, back when the picture was taken and today as well. Lucky girl!
May your day, your year, and your life be blessed, my daughter, as you have blessed mine.

Experience Gift

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

My son and his girlfriend gave me an awesome Christmas present. It was a gift certificate to a place called "Pure Light" at The Spectrum. There, you make your own candles. You get to choose everything, from shape, to fragrance, to colors, to these incredible embellishments that they have. It can almost be overwhelming because there is so much from which to pick. I decided to take my crafty, partner in crime, JoEllen. Sitting there with her, laughing through the whole process, made it such a fun experience.
She may have enjoyed using the sharp tool to break up the blocks of wax a little too much!
Once you have picked your shape, you begin filling it with the color chunks of wax. Of course, I had to pick the heart because I love hearts! When complete, the store adds hot, melted white wax around the chunks. then, the cool part of adding the different embellishments happens. Deciding just where everything goes is the final step in your creation.
Here are the finished products. Mine is on the left. Along with the gift certificate, Tyler & EB gave me a few embellishments which I loved! One was a message in a bottle,which is proudly displayed near the top left. This is a double gift because I had the memorable experience of making the candle myself, just the way I wanted it to be and now, it will be on display in my house for all to see.
Thanks, guys ~ love it, love you!

Callie Girl

2012-01-03T15:08:00.000-08:00

"Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window." ~Steve Bluestone

I just LOVE this picture!! OK, I just LOVE this dumb dog!!!

2011 Recap

2011-12-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

Each December, you are hard pressed not to be bombarded with many different evaluations, both highs and lows of the year. We seem to like to look back and sort out what did and didn't occur during the previous twelve months.
For me, I look at it as "roses" and "thorns", or the good and the bad. It really is a good idea to recall life's events and catagorize them in one of the two groups. This year did not have any major events, but some things do stick out.
Here's my list:

ROSES
1. Having the grand kids for sleep overs & watching them curled up on the air mattress
2. Trips to Texas, San Diego, San Francisco and Las Vegas. When compiling this list, I realized that every trip was running related.
3. Being injury free all year and able to run 5 half marathons while achieving a new PR (personal record) 2:30:16
4. Trip to the desert with the Riley 5 that was nothing short of amazing. Kids are getting older and taking them places is easier and so much fun!
5. "Watching Wednesdays" when I took care of the Riley kids. They are loud, messy and more fun than you can imagine. Their intellect and humor keep me on my toes.
6. Callie, the dog I didn't know I wanted or needed, is the perfect addition to our family. She is sweet and easy and the kids adore her. I now have an excuse for talking to myself. I just say, "Hey, I'm talking to the dog!"
7. Saving the best for last, Mark (Papa) is the silent strength behind us all. He continues to fix everything for us, take care of us, work hard, and love us more than we deserve. We would be lost without him.

THORNS
1. Work was slow and that means money was sometimes in short supply. Amazing what you can live without. Much of it is not even noticed.
2. Jack topped the charts for broken bones this year and it was a difficult time. No one wants to see their loved ones hurt and you can't do anything to fix it.
3. #2 caused us to miss the annual family camping trip (except Pa, Maddy & Uncle Kevin). Who knew how sad I would feel when I couldn't go camping?! Did I just say that?!?!?!
4. Too much time passes between visits with friends and it makes me sad. People should be a priority for each other. We won't be here forever.
5. More wrinkles and gray hair. Only so much can be done to stop the aging process and acceptance of the inevitable seems the only answer.

After reading over these lists, I see the roses are not big things, but the thorns are even smaller! Sometimes, when I am living the day to day of ordinary time, it can get the best of me and I feel let down, disappointed, discouraged and depressed. Reading these lists brings to the forefront, once again, how very blessed and full my life is. I am not rich and famous. I did not travel to exotic lands. I did not accomplish anything great in 2011. I accomplished many, little things that feel great.
Good bye, 2011. Hello, 2012.

Post Christmas Letdown

2011-12-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

OK, I promise not to be one of those people that always talk about their dog, but I had to comment about Christmas. It was, once again, a really lovely day filled with happy children, loads of wrapping paper, good food and laughs. Generally, hard as I try not to, I always seem to get a dark cloud over my head mid afternoon of Christmas Day that I just can't shake. I think it is all the build up for months and then, poof, it's over! The letdown is palatable. Well, I am happy to report, it didn't happen this year!! I think it is all due to Callie's arrival. She's the gift that keeps on giving. So far, she has been nothing but a perfectly sweet dog. She has slept in her crate since the first night without so much as a whimper. She loves to follow me through the house and just hang out with me. I find myself laughing more than usual watching her antics. My husband calls her "the hound", but I notice it is with more affection in his voice than annoyance. The kids, especially Maddy, are completely in love with her.
It's amazing that something so small can have such a big impact on so many people!

Are You My Mommy?

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's been a very long time since there was a dog in this house. The ones that were here, were inherited by default from my son and son-in-law. They were BIG dogs and and not my choice.
I have no idea where the thought came from, but I have been contemplating getting a dog for several months. It would just pop up in my consciousness from nowhere. Now my husband, on the other hand, really doesn't care for dogs at all!!! At night, while watching TV, I would ask him questions like, "On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you feel about getting a dog?" His reply? "-1!!!" of "What are you nuts??"
I made the mistake of mentioning this to my daughter. She would not let it go and kept asking me if I really wanted a dog and if I did, I should rescue one. She started combing the local shelters online and sending me photos. None interested me that much, until I saw this scruffy mess above. She just seemed to be looking right at me and calling my name. OK, I said, we will go LOOK at her. Knowing how opposed my husband was, made me do all this half heartedly. I know everyone thinks I just do what I want, when I want, with no regard for others, but the truth is, I need and want my husband's approval on most things ~ especially BIG things. A dog (however small) is a BIG thing in this house!
We saw her in the first row and she was as cute in person as in her picture. We got to take her out for a "test drive" in the yard and she was so sweet and docile. They have a policy that states that everyone in the house must meet the dog before they will let you adopt, so Amber and I decided to go and bring Mark down to see her. First we stopped off for a bite to eat. We were actually standing in the line a Panera Bread and she looked at me and asked, "Are you even hungry? I'm too nervous to want to eat!" I agreed completely and off we went to ambush poor Mark.
He initially said NO...No...no....but, here's the thing ~ my husband loves me and he wants me to be happy. As much as he doesn't really want a dog, he could see this was a big deal for me and he relented. Off we went and we adopted her! I named her Callie. She is 8 pounds of sweetness. I am happy to report she slept in her crate all night without a whimper! As I write this, she is asleep behind me on my chair, all cozy and warm.
Truth is, she may have rescued me!

Camp Grammie

2011-12-21T08:44:00.000-08:00

Last year, I started what I call "Camp Grammie". It's a morning of crafts, cooking and games. Yesterday, I had 14 campers ~ 6 boys and 8 girls!! Yes, it was a little hectic at times, but, overall, they were GREAT!! I made red and green pancakes in the morning and they ate them as fast as I could cook them! Some chose cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top, some had syrup and some chose both!! We made wooden Christmas trees, candy cane banners and more. The absolute favorite, however, was a Rudolph version of the hot potato game.

When you start him, his nose lights up and music plays. The kids pass it fast and try not to get stuck with it when the music stops. One by one they were eliminated until only two were left.
What was so beautiful to watch was how they each were cheering for those left. No one got upset when they were out. They still got to watch the action and laugh and clap. In an age of technology and electronics, it was a joy to see them enjoy a game that has been around since I was a kid!! Sometimes old is best!
Receiving emails and messages from moms letting me know how much fun their child had makes me feel so happy.
And I call this work...

Merry Christmas vs. Happy Holidays

2011-12-13T13:33:00.000-08:00

At this time of year, I am often reminded of the fact that we seem to be moving away from the greeting of "Merry Christmas" in favor of the vanilla flavored, politically correct, less offensive, all encompassing "Happy Holidays". Recently, I was shopping and when the clerk ended our transaction with Happy Holidays and I replied Merry Christmas. He stopped, looked at me and thanked me for wishing him Merry Christmas. He told me he was relieved for me to say it so then he felt comfortable in saying it as well.
I realize Christmas is a religious holiday, not celebrated by everyone, but are we really offending each other when we offer Merry Christmas as a greeting? Are we forcing our beliefs on others? Are we excluding or diminishing what they believe over what we believe? I don't think so. In a recent study, most Americans, whatever their preferences for holiday celebrations and public displays thereof, are not highly concerned about the matter. When given the option of hearing "Merry Christmas" or a less religious greeting—like "Happy Holidays"—in stores and businesses, Americans do choose Merry Christmas by a 60 percent-to-23 percent margin. In our over caution to include all, offend none and tread lightly around religious and political views, we have given up small pieces of what makes us who we are. I celebrate Christmas. I wish you a Merry Christmas! That is how I share some of the happiness of the holiday season. No offense intended!

Santa Hat Party Mix

2011-12-11T11:19:00.001-08:00

When I saw this idea, I KNEW I had to make some of this darling Santa Party Mix. It starts with the traditional mix of items, but the addition of the Santa hats makes it extra special.

Start with a package of Bugles. You can use original, but I found caramel and thought that would make a tasty addition.

Melt red chocolate. I used the Wilton melting chips that I use when I teach a chocolate class. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to make it creamy and easy to use. Coat each bugle with chocolate and place on a wax paper lined cookie sheet. Chill to harden.
When they are set, dip just the bottom back into the melted chocolate and then dip in tiny white nonpareils. Dip the other end (the tip) in the chocolate and push a mini marshmallow on it. Place back on cookie sheet and chill again.
Meanwhile, mix this up:

Feel free to play around with the additions and make it your own!

3 cups mini pretzels

1/2 cup craisins

1 cup salted dry roasted peanuts (I omitted these as we have allergies in the family)

2 cups Rice Chex

2 cups holiday colored M&M’s

8 oz. white chocolate for melting

Spread all your ingredients, EXCEPT M&M’s, out on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper.

Melt your white chocolate according to package directions and drizzle over the pretzel mix.

After chilling, I carefully broke it apart into bite size pieces. Add the M &M's and the Santa hats and you have a darling, tasty hostess gift.
Presentation is everything so put the mix in a cute container. Make sure that some of the Santa hats show up so everyone can oooh and ahhhh when you give it to them. Then, all you have to do is bask in the compliments!!!

Dear Cynics:

2011-12-08T16:22:00.001-08:00

Dear Cynics: If you say...I'm too tired. I don't want to decorate this year. I'm sick of it. It's too much trouble. Blah...blah...blah...
Well, what I have to say to you is, quick, run, don't walk and find yourself some grand kids. If you have to beg, borrow or steal them ~ get some!!!

Their smiles can light up the night!

Their unending enthusiasm is pure joy!

Their willingness to play & be in the moment is a sight to witness!

Their ability to believe in the magic can rub off on you!

One look and you will never be the same!!

Legacy

2011-12-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

And in the end, what I know to be true is that I will not be defined by the size of my house, the work I did, the places I traveled.
I will be defined by the memories of these three beautiful soles of the person I was at the smallest moments. I looked at them when they talked to me. I listened to the silliest, long story they wanted to tell.
I bought them each their own shake!!! Any flavor they wanted. I let them have Diet Coke too!! These are the memories that will make a lasting impression that, hopefully, will live on, long after I am gone.

Las Vegas 1/2 Marathon

2011-12-06T15:26:00.001-08:00

On December 4, 2011 Mark & I went to Las Vegas so I could run in the Rock n Roll Half Marathon. My dear friend from Austin, Carol, flew in to run it with me. 44,000 people signed up to make it the largest night race IN THE WORLD!!! Here we are, pre-race. I always feel so nervous before a race, asking myself, what am I doing here?! I am not an athlete, let alone a real runner! This race was extra tricky because I had never run 13.1 miles at night. Most people, including the man who came in first overall in the full marathon, had never run a night race. What to eat? When to eat? Rest or go about your day? They were all factors that would catch up to us after 5:30pm race night.

They closed down the strip and we ran from Mandalay Bay all the way to Fremont Street and back. All the overhead walkways along the strip were filled with people cheering for us. The lights along the strip were fantastic. We ran in front of million dollar hotels and shabby pawn shops downtown. Local news carried the race live, so Mark & Carol's husband, Pat, were able to watch most of it while sitting in the bar at our hotel!
After the race, there was much criticism about what a mess it was. For the people way in the back, they almost never got a chance to really run as there were so many people. I read online that they ran out of medals. I would have been heart broken if that had happened to me and can see their disappointment. The promoters were interviewed and said they wanted the race to go from 44,000 people this year to 60,000 next year!!! With all the bad press, it will be interesting to see what they decide.
For me, personally, it was a great race. I had a really good finish time (2:36:34) and, yes, that's two and half hours of running!! I am not fast! I felt strong and great through mile 9. I made sure to look up and enjoy the sights of the strip ~ the lights, the people, the energy all around me.

Here's the finishers medal. I just discovered the coolest thing ~ it glows in the dark so the moon and stars shine!!! What an exciting, challenging experience and one I will never forget!

In Training

2011-11-29T15:34:00.000-08:00

We teach our children many things, mostly by example rather than words. Be nice, play fair, tell the truth...all important. However, teaching our girls the importance of carrying a large, beautiful handbag is high on the list as well! You're never too young to learn this!

Turkey?! Again?!?!

2011-11-26T08:43:00.000-08:00

By now, your family may be protesting, "NO MORE turkey leftovers!" I have a wonderful recipe for that last little bit that is nothing like Thanksgiving dinner and I promise they will be clamoring for more. Even better, it contains only five ingredients!

WHITE SAUCE ENCHILADAS
8-10 taco size flour tortillas
2 cups chopped leftover turkey (any other time of year, chicken is fine)
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups shredded Jack cheese
1 can diced Ortega chilies (optional)

HOW TO:
1. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, cheese and, if using them, the green chilies.
2. Slightly heat the heavy cream in a large skillet.
3. Dip each flour tortilla in the cream & fill with meat & cheese mixture.
4. Roll up and place filled tortilla in a 13 x 9 pan.
5. When all the tortillas are filled, pour the remaining cream over them in the pan.
6. Sprinkle with additional Jack cheese.
7. Bake, uncovered at 325 degrees for about 20 - 30 minutes. They should be slightly browned.
Guaranteed YUM!!

Black Friday

2011-11-25T08:43:00.001-08:00

For seven years now, my daughter and I have been avid Black Friday shoppers. Some call us crazy, but we don't care. We sit down with the ads. We plot, we plan, we discuss the best way to navigate the county in the dark of the night. In response to this limping economy, many stores opened up much earlier than before. It was a little trickier, but I am happy to report ~ SUCCESS!!
For the first time ever, we enlisted a driver (thanks, Pa!) and it really helped. In the past, he has shaken his head and thought we were crazy to do this, but after last night, he knows we are crazy!! He and Amber left me off at 5pm in front of Toys R Us as they sped off to Old Navy. I was second in line behind a charming man with two little girls. (Yes, I could tell you most of his life story and will be friend requesting him on Facebook today!!) Did I mention that the store did not open until 9pm?!?! That means I waited for four hours in line. Amber had a very long list for this store. We decided to "divide and conquer", so we each had an assignment of what to go after first. Pa, elevated from driver to semi-willing participant, was told to head straight to bikes in the back of the store. Amber headed to electronics for buy one-get one free games. I had four games on my list and, of course, they were spread throughout the store. Cell phones come in handy when you are part of a mob scene.
We entered the store at 9:02pm and were walking to the car at 9:28pm with EVERYTHING that was on the list! The savings tally was in the hundreds of dollar range. The prices are only part of why we do this. We have made some fantastic memories together over the last seven years, and that would be the case if we were asleep in our beds. Many sentences start with, "Remember that time in Target..." = PRICELESS!!
P.S. the photo above was taken by an OC Register reporter last night because we were at the front of line. The caption in the paper reads:
Second in line, Susan Svoboda of North Tustin, waits with line with her daughter, Amber Riley, for the doors to open Thursday night at 9 p.m. at the Toys-R-Us at The Market Place in Tustin as the toy store gets a jump on Black Friday. "Good deals, good prices, been here since 5 o'clock," said Susan when asked why she was in line, "three grand children, wanting to make them happy."
Enough said!!

Turkey Trot

2011-11-24T12:36:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to do a Turkey trot on Thanksgiving, but have not made it to one yet. Last night I said I was going to run my own Turkey Trot and the girls said they wanted to run with me. In true Jack style, he proclaimed, "I don't like turkey!!" I figured they'd forget about it, but, no they asked right away this morning about when we were running.
So, first we stretched a bit in the driveway.
Then, off we were!! Running the mean streets of North Tustin!

Abbey walked/ran, but held her own. She is determined not to be outdone by her older sister!

We even "ran" from their house to my house and they made it the whole way, with Pa following us in the car in case someone got tired. It was the best Turkey Trot EVER!! Here I am with my beautiful "medals". Love Maddy's headband!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

My Videits

2011-11-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

They only a know a world where everything is a finger touch away!
Good or bad (or a little of each), it's here to stay.
They're quick, they're smart & they just want to play!
So, move over grammie & get out of their way!!

Life

2011-11-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you how many times I have told my daughter, "Life is messy." It's not my line, but one borrowed from the movie "Parenthood" (circa 1989). The movie is one of my favorites because it is so real. Things happen. People are disappointed. It's not how you planned it. It all seems more "Plan B" than "Plan A". But, guess what? It's okay! In fact, it's more than okay, it's grand! This wonderful sign reminds us that, not only is life messy, but that messiness is what gives it it's color, it's fun, it's adventure. We wouldn't have it any other way!

Two Ingredients

2011-11-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

I would not have believed this if I didn't try it myself. Yes, just TWO ingredients, a boxed spice cake mix and a can of pumpkin turned into these delicious pumpkin muffins! No eggs, no oil, no water!! Just mix the two things together and bake!!
I made them in the Babycakes machine because the kids love the small size.

Kid tested. Kid approved! I couldn't get a photo of Maddy's because she ate it so fast!!

The Crew

2011-11-19T17:26:00.000-08:00

Oh, my how their personalities emerge!!
Maddy = the always ready to pose actress
Jack = really too cool for this
Abbey = I'm here. I'm standing still. That's all you get!!
I love them all so very much!!!

Happy Ending

2011-11-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

This blog is a P.S. to my blog dated November 10th. If you read it, you know that I had a terrible day because I lost both the charms from my Nike Women's Half Marathons. To say the least, I was inconsolable. Whenever I told someone new the story, I started crying again, even days after it happened.
One charm was actually found at Starbucks, a miracle to say the least, but this year's never turned up. I am happy to report that my wonderful son, who has a heart as big as his body even if he works at hiding it, went on Ebay, found the necklace, entered the auction, won the auction and presented me with an early Christmas present yesterday. Now, this charm represents a whole lot more than just a half marathon. It represents love and caring and wanting to make someone happy. It means so much. Thank you, Tyler!
Oh, and, I put both charms on a much better chain! Lesson learned!

Chapters

2011-11-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

People often refer to their life in "chapters". "Well, I guess this is the next chapter of my life." etc. Being an avid book reader, I can totally relate to this sign. So often, we stew about the past or worry about the future, that we fail to ever "be here now". It's not an easy concept to master. Try as we might to avoid thinking about it,we are often plagued by thoughts of regret for things we did (or didn't do) from our past. Logically, it is a waste of time. The past IS past! Today, here and now, is where our head and hearts need to be. Today, we still have the potential to be the kind of person we want to be. Today, we can figure out how to tackle life's challenges. Today, we can stop and be thankful for the gift that this day is. Today, we can try, once again, to be who and what we know is deep inside of us.
Another chance...don't waste it.

Wishes

2011-11-15T19:04:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, I tied a wishbone to every gift with a note that said, "We WISH you a Merry Christmas!". My poor family had to eat whole chickens a LOT that year to collect enough wishbones! It was kind of fun, though. It seemed that most every week there was one drying on my window sill in the kitchen. I still have a hard time just throwing them away with the rest of the carcass.
It got me thinking about wishes and how they change when you get older. Try as we might to be otherwise, adulthood and life have a way of beating the wishes right out of you. Day to day tasks and demands can push your wishes even further from your mind. Who has time to wish for something when there is so much to do?! Wishes become silly in a life that seems, so often, serious. Disappointment squelches our wishes even more. No wonder wishes take a backseat to reality.
Well, I, for one, am going to start making wishes on a regular basis. I promise myself to make at least one wish a day ~ big or small, silly or sincere. The power is in believing that wishes do come true and as long as we keep believing, anything is possible.
Just wishin'....and I hope you do too!

Five Years Ago

2011-11-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Cleaning out my desk, I discovered this little gem of an email from my daughter dated five years ago today. My husband, aka "Pa", watched the kids one day a week so Amber could work. Anyone who knows him will tell you, Pa is an awesome grandpa. However, he does not run a tight ship. He prefers to just hang out with the kids, do what they want, when they want and how they want. This, surely, is one of the reasons they adore him.
For reasons unknown at the time, I printed and saved this funny email. It seems fitting to share it now. Five years later, Maddy is potty trained and Jack no longer wishes to be held 24/7. Our family even has an additional member we didn't know would make it all so complete. The lesson is, what sometimes seems to be a huge issue or problem, generally works itself out over time, whether we worry about it or not!

Heartache

2011-11-10T15:22:00.000-08:00

I have run the last two years in the Nike Women's Half Marathon in San Francisco. This year's race was especially hard for me. The hills were not kind to this old body. At the end of the race, each finisher is presented with a beautiful, blue Tiffany box. Inside is a necklace that is made especially for the race. They are medals of honor among runners. Most women put all of the charms from each race on one chain and wear them together. When I got home last month, I proudly did the same thing. I have worn it nonstop since I received it. Sadly, I looked down today and saw the chain only on my shirt ~ the two charms were gone. I burst into tears and was inconsolable. These were earned necklaces, not bought. I had done a million errands today, as always. Retracing my steps seemed fruitless. I called Target and asked if anyone had turned in silver charms. I was crying so hard on the phone, the poor man who answered was upset he couldn't help me. He said to call back tomorrow as they find a lot of things when the store closes. I went to Michaels and asked the same thing. Again, crying in front of the sales clerk, I explained it had no value to anyone but me. She, too, was sorry she couldn't help. I went into Starbucks and, again, asked about the charms. My crying was so intense, not only were the clerks trying to look but a couple of customers did also. Lo and behold, there was the charm from last year on the ground under the counter. We searched and searched for the other one, but it was not there. I know I should be happy to have found one of the two, but I am still so sad. I cried myself all over Tustin today. My heart is still broken for what is lost.
Oh, I can BUY one on Ebay for $150 to $200!!! How can I justify spending that kind of money on something that only matters to me? So, so sad...

Good Enough

2011-11-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

Been busy and not blogging these last few days. My daughter and son-in-law took off for a much needed getaway and I have been watching the three beauties. I wish I had some really funny story about how crazy it has been, but the truth is, they are getting older and I run a tight ship. It was a pretty drama free four days. Now, there are three of them, so it was hectic, but no really ugly moments.
I ran across this sign this morning and it made me think about mothering my own children and all the times I felt I had failed miserably. We mothers are the best at beating ourselves up over what we said, what we failed to say, what we did or what we failed to do. We see our shortcomings as a technicolor movie and our successes as black and white snapshots. It is a stilted view to say the least. I guess that is why this little saying made an impression on me. Yes, we fail as mothers. Yes, we fall short many times over the decades it takes to grow our children into adults. Yes, we would often like a "do over". Truth be told, most of us have done a pretty decent job. While never quite achieving perfection, we have often hit a home run at "good".
And good, is good enough. We must never forget that fact!!
And it counts for grammies as well!

Balance

2011-11-03T13:05:00.000-07:00

Boy, this really hit me when I saw this cool plate. Simple words that ring so true in my life. I am not sure which is harder ~ holding on or letting go. I am still holding on to a few things that I know are not getting me what I really want from life. Letting go is the right answer, it is just a hard one to enact. Being the controller that I am, I want to be the to ultimate hold on or let go dictator. The reality of it is, however, rather than me holding or letting go of many situations, they are holding me. What is that saying, "What we resist, persists!"
This blog holds no answers. It just reminds me, once again, to try and find balance, in my life, in my work, in my relationships, in my joy and in my sorrow.

November

2011-11-01T14:43:00.000-07:00

I have been putting this sign out front for more Novembers than I can count and each time it gives me a chuckle. I guess it reminds us that there are always two sides to any story. While we all love the thought of Thanksgiving and gathering together over a bountiful meal, from the turkey's point of view, it seems a lot less appealing! Hence his request to try ham!!
I am going to use this silly sign to remind myself this month to try and see other people's point of view. It is so easy to discount others in favor of taking a stand on what we believe is true or right or important. I am going to let go a little more and just let life happen. Too often I am steering so hard to make things go the way I want them to, that I lose sight of the fact that they usually turn out just fine anyway. Whether it is in a straight line or a meandering, curvy line, we still end up where we are supposed to be in this life.

Thank You

2011-10-29T04:20:00.001-07:00

Dear Grandchildren:
I just wanted to take the time to say thank you. In today's world, with all it's turmoil and uncertainty, thank you for giving me a reason to just enjoy the moment.

Thank you for helping me still believe in mermaids.

Thank you for helping me believe the good guys still win.

Than you for showing me pure & simple joy each day.

Thank you for taking me along for the ride. I wouldn't miss it for the world!
Love, Grammie

Worry

2011-10-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

"If you see ten troubles coming down the road, you can be sure that nine will run into the ditch before they reach you." ~Calvin Coolidge
Worry is a tough thing. We all worry, but some more than others. I am a chronic worrier. I worry for everyone around me ~ my husband, my children, my friends. Nobody assigned me this job. I gave it to myself. It is a tough job to quit. My logical head tells me it is a useless, future-tense emotion. My heart races with the thought of all the possible things that could happen rather than the probable. There is a disconnect between the real and the imagined. In truth, most of what we worry about never comes to be. Again, I know this logically, just not emotionally.
I am finding some relief in changing my thoughts in small ways. Rather than asking the worry-filled question, "What will I do?" I try and ask myself "What can I do?" See how that one little word change makes a huge difference in the question? One is a victim crying out and the other is a person taking charge and working on a solution. There is both power and comfort in being proactive in finding solutions to your worries rather than just stewing about them. Maybe the "what can we do" won't solve the entire dilemma at hand, but it can help us take baby steps to get closer to ideas and answers and further away from worry. Now that sounds like a direction I want to be going!

My Helpers

2011-10-24T15:33:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like getting to lick the spoon when you are making brownies or cupcakes. These three are masters at it! Between them, they manage to get most every drop before it goes to the sink for a washing. Healthy? Maybe not. A simple pleasure of life? Absolutely! Yes, we all need our health, but a small of dose of simple pleasure may be the best health of all.

Blog Neglect

2011-10-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

I think I am guilty of "blog neglect" lately. I have been really busy (excuse) and not very inspired (who's reading it anyways?!) and I have been lagging on my posts. Some days I have so much to say and other days...nothing! I guess my blog is a metaphor for my life....sometimes inspiring and sometimes, downright boring! We all live mostly in ordinary time and I figure, why would anyone want to hear about my ordinary time. I need to write exciting, inspiring, and interesting things. I want to acknowledge the important occurrences, not the bland. Some days I feel my life is better than many. Other days, I think it sucks and don't want to document its suckiness! Maybe, by me acknowledging these two things, I can make you feel okay about your life. Good days or sucky days, we are all in this together. There may lie the true joy...

Numbers

2011-10-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

6:30am
22,000 runners
13.1 miles
1 Tiffany necklace

Run, Baby, Run

2011-10-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

"I'm a runner, this I know, because the Nike wall tells me so!"
Sunday was the Nike Women's Half Marathon in San Francisco. It is the second time I have run this race. In all honesty, it totally kicked my butt this year! My time was not that great, the hills about killed me and it was so crowded (22,000 runners) that it felt like the 5 freeway at times. That being said ~ I RAN 13.1 MILES!!!!! I told my girlfriend who went with me as moral support that I always feel much better saying "I run." rather than "I am a runner." I don't want to claim something I am not or boast about something that still feels so difficult sometimes. I know I have gotten better in the last two years. I run longer, I (occasionally) run faster, I rarely feel winded, but I still do not take it for granted. I love being great at things and this is something that often feels like a too tight headband or an ill-fitting bra instead of great. That being said ~ I RAN 13.1 MILES!!!! I need to bask in the moment and allow myself to feel good...if only for a moment or two.
I am a runner!! (The Nike wall in Union Square says so!!)

Women's Conference

2011-10-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me, knows I love to create things. Getting an idea, crafting plans to make it real and finally seeing the results, well, there's nothing better in my book! Since July, I have been working with another gal to produce a women's conference. It's the first time ever doing something of this magnitude and it has been a learning experience. One that I am sure, will continue being a learning experience up to the conference, during the conference and long after the conference. Whether you are in CA or not, I'd love you to check out the link and see what it entails. We just launched it today and already we have sold tickets!! Kinda like giving birth ~ painful, messy, tiring, beautiful & joyful!!!

After several months of planning, we are happy to announce the Expand Your Horizon Women's Conference on January 26, 2012 at The Nixon Library. You can enjoy a morning listening to speakers that will encourage, inspire & teach you. Please click on the link for full details. This event WILL sell out fast so please buy your tickets soon. Consider buying one for a girlfriend for a Christmas present. We can't wait to see you there!! Please help us spread the word by sending the info or link to your friends. It will be a morning to remember!!!

http://bit.ly/expandyourhorizon2012

You can also access the conference by going to www.thedayyourway.com

My Girls

2011-10-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

When is a pillowcase, NOT a pillowcase? When some clever person turns it into a dress. I bought these for the girls at last weekend's boutique. Halloween themed and cute as can be. They were both so proud of them. In fact, Abbey insisted on putting it on the next day too! Hey, they say let them win the small battles and I agree!
This may look like dresses, but, for me, it's just more life lessons. Stop moving so fast and look at what's right in front of me = beauty. Simple, small things are really the big things = pillowcase dresses. Their joy = my joy. This is going to pass by so fast = enjoy the ride...every silly, small, loud sticky minute of it!!!

The Power of a Dollar

2011-10-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Jack came home last week and tried to explain a story about his class, brownies he told them I would make & a guinea pig!! The next day, when I dropped him at school, the teacher said "I need to talk to you." She further explained that, yes, they were having a bake sale to raise money for a new guinea pig. Apparently, the one they had for years, met with an untimely death this summer. Now, I know that the pets in the classroom go home with different kids for the weekend or summer. If that had happened on my watch, I would have made a beeline for the nearest pet store and bought a replacement immediately. I also would have probably said nothing. If someone wondered out loud about how they thought the guinea pig had more brown on him, I would pretend to not understand what they were saying!!
The bake sale gave me an idea. The night before the St. Paul's boutique, I made up a box, put a sign and a photo of a guinea pig on it, and placed it on a table at the entrance. All I asked was to "Donate a Dollar". Loads of people did! I am not sure at this time how much is in the box because Jack is going to take it school tomorrow and he and his classmates are all going to open it together and count out the dollars (math lesson). I am sure that the teachers will also use it as an opportunity for a lesson on generosity and giving.
I am humbled by the thought that one dollar, multiplied by many kind people, will have such an effect on these children. Never think what you have to offer is too small and won't matter, because it does.
And I don't even like guinea pigs ~ but I adore my grandson!!

Happy Birthday

2011-10-05T12:11:00.000-07:00

Seven years...gone so fast...so many fun memories...so much more to look forward to with you, our FIRST Angel Bug!!!
Life was good...then there was you...now it is great!! Who knew?? Lucky us!!

Pumpkin Seeds

2011-10-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

I had to laugh when I found this picture of the "puking pumpkin"! It really is a rather clever display for Halloween night, if not a little "barfy"!
One of our favorite traditions of the season is roasting the seeds we find when we cut open the pumpkins. We have tried a few variations of the recipe over the years, but why mess with perfect?? We love them salty and crispy. Here's our simple, yet satisfying recipe for you to try:

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds (or however many you are lucky enough to find inside)
2 teaspoons butter, melted
1 pinch salt - or more to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally.

The trick is to get them before everyone else does!! Enjoy!!

Inspiration

2011-10-01T15:06:00.000-07:00

Today was Soccer Saturday and I attended both grand kid's games. Although the calendar reads October 1st, nobody told Mother Nature to tone it down a little and the temps were in the high 80s. Blah ~ no feeling of fall in sight! Seeking refuge under a tree to find any spot of shade, I sat and watched the game. While sitting there, I looked around and noticed many, tiny fallen twigs on the ground. That's all it took for inspiration to hit me! I gathered them up and held them tightly, knowing exactly what I was going to do with them when I got home.
A little ribbon, a silk leaf and flower and my ever-ready glue gun and ~ PRESTO! ~ a place card setting is born. I can see them all adorning the Thanksgiving table now. Who knew soccer could be so inspiring!

Wordless Wednesday ~ The Girls

2011-09-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall!

2011-09-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

I have always claimed to be a summer girl ~ sunshine, long, hot days, BBQs, etc. While I still enjoy summer, as I am approaching the "fall of my years", I think I am becoming more of a fall girl. Today is officially the first day of fall and, while that is not so easy to distinguish in California, it is still worth noting. The days are slowly becoming shorter, the temperatures at night (at least) are cooling, more leaves are on the ground. I am longing to start baking in earnest again. I find myself pouring over soup and stew recipes. Instead of sadly saying good bye to summer, I am happily welcoming fall. I plan to enjoy each day of the season & I hope you do too!

Cool for Awesome

2011-09-21T04:56:00.000-07:00

A while back, Jack was describing something to us and he said it was "cool for awesome". It has become a family saying when we think something is "really neat". Cool is one level, but "cool for awesome" is clearly way above just a simple cool.
I am struck with the thought that children, in their early years, really think they are wonderful, awesome, special creatures. As time goes on and we release them into the world, they find that not everyone feels they are "cool for awesome". Some people are downright mean or cruel and seem to make it their mission to make them feel bad about themselves. As a parent or grandparent, or anyone who loves them, for that matter, it makes our heart ache to see them hurt. I don't like to see my grown children hurting to this day. To think that these darling girls of mine, who are preening in the mirror in a princess dress and smiling at their awesomeness, will someday, sooner than I care to imagine, be wailing because their hair doesn't look "right", or someone told them their nose was too big or they were not their friend anymore, makes me want to cry. I will always be there to tell them they are perfect and beautiful, but my words will soon mean less than those of their friends. Even if my words become a smaller voice in their life, I will never stop telling them, over and over. Hopefully, I have filled up their reservoir of self esteem with enough "cool for awesome", that they will have an abundance for their future.
Wasn't it easier when all you had to do to protect them was to keep their fingers out of the light sockets?!

Fashion Week

2011-09-16T16:48:00.000-07:00

It was Fashion Week in New York so my little beauties decided to hold their own fashion show. Here's what cute pumpkins will be wearing this fall.
Spider Girl even made an appearance on the runway looking especially fetching.
Who knew green dinosaurs could be so fashion forward ~ hands on hips and all!
Everyone knows, a hat can really make the outfit.
Yes, some get New York and designer shows. I get imagination play that invites me to share in the fun. Who's the lucky one?!

Circle of Life

2011-09-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend I have the privilege of coordinating a wedding for two young people. As silly as it sounds, it never gets old to hear the words spoken at a wedding, the promises made and the love that fills the room. Oh, I know that one in two marriages doesn't make it and that there will be struggles in the years to come that no young couple realizes on their wedding day. They still start out with hopefulness and love in their eyes, as they should.
The following weekend I also have the privilege of coordinating a memorial service for a gentleman I have never met. His son contacted me and did a wonderful job of describing his father, his long life and what mattered to him. It has inspired me to create a reception for the family and friends that will be filled with dignity, kindness and a fitting tribute to his father. Some would say one is event is happy ~ a beginning and the other is sad ~ an ending. While this may be true, there is also a level that both are the same. They are celebrations of milestones in our life. We pause from our ordinary time and acknowledge that something has happened here. We celebrate both the beginning and the ending. We do this by gathering with family and friends, telling stories, laughing, crying, and breaking bread. We all become a witness for each other. I can't think of a better gift to give.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Makes Me Smile

2011-09-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hair Raising Thoughts

2011-09-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

"How can I control my life when I can't control my hair? " ~Author Unknown
Hair plays an important part in any women's life. Through the years, I have experienced many different styles, not to mention colors!
When we are young, we are at the mercy of our mother's to make sure our hair looks good. Based upon this picture, that can easily fall as short as these bangs! What was she thinking right before picture day at school?!

I have no one to blame except myself here. I was fresh out of high school and thought I was such a hot blond. The outfit only helped to enhancer that image, don't you think?!
Finally letting go of my blond and opting for the natural color and simple, parted down the middle, long hair, I became the cookie cutter of most everyone else.

This clearly was a modified bowl cut. I guess I was hoping my giant stomach would take the eye away from this awesome hair style!
The "Lady Di" era lasted a long time for me. Short and sassy was the name of this.
When I think I actually PAID someone to make my hair look like this, I want to laugh or cry. I was either trying for the Texas big-hair look or another ethnicity all together!!
The funny thing is, none of us tries to make our hair look silly. Looking back, I can't find many photos that depict hair I would say I actually liked today. Most of them are as embarrassing as the ones I have posted here. Why didn't my family or friends kindly say something? How did they let me go out in public looking like this? It just shows you that styles change and so do we. My husband always reminds me that 10 years from now, I will wish for this body back. He may be right, but I am pretty sure I will never wish for any of these hairstyles back!

Perfection

2011-09-10T18:06:00.000-07:00

"How much good are you missing waiting for perfect?"
I waited several days before blogging about this quote I found. I am a confessed perfectionist and am guilty of the very behavior it addresses. I do like to get things perfect, or as close to it as I can get, in almost every aspect of my life. It is a very stressful way to live. It is, by definition, nearly impossible to attain and sustain in our daily lives. See, things happen. People get sick, friends disappoint us, spouses hurt us, kids don't do what we want them to do. It is far from a perfect world. Why have such an unattainable goal? You set yourself up for constant disappointment. Yet, I am not willing to let go of the possibility of perfection. As I have gotten older (and hopefully a little wiser), I have willed myself to redefine perfection. While, being in a suite in a hotel in Hawaii with our own personal staff, sipping a cocktail on the beach sounds like perfection, I also have to see that having a glass of wine sitting outside while my husband enjoys a cigar poolside, may just be perfection as well. Running a half marathon, while not my fastest time ever, is still being able to run 13.1 miles, a feat I never would have thought possible for me a few years ago. Isn't that close to perfection? Can't I settle on a definition that let's me enjoy the good each day while waiting for the, every now and then, perfection?
Doesn't that sound, well, perfect?!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Alien Beetles

2011-09-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Project Pumpkin

2011-09-05T14:12:00.000-07:00

OK, I admit it. I am not a good idle person. Relaxing does not come easy for me and I am happiest when I have a project going. As I was falling asleep last night, I asked my husband if he had any 4 x 4 posts that could be cut up into smaller pieces. Lucky me, the contractor usually has on hand just what I am looking for and he can take out the perfect tool to cut it for me as well.
I made this darling set of pumpkins this afternoon. I sanded, painted and embellished them in no time. I love how they came out and plan on making more. Each set will be slightly different. I love decorations for all holidays and these are going to be the latest addition to my fall collection. For some reason, I am especially looking forward to fall this year. Cooler temps, slight breezes, pumpkin spice lattes and the smell of baking in the house. I may even slow down every now and then and just relax and enjoy it!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Riding High

2011-08-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

You know how sometimes you are SO EXCITED to do something? You know it's going to be an awesome adventure. Throw your arms up and say, "Yeah!"

Then you're strapped in, ready to go....but, wait, maybe you're not all that ready.

Is this REALLY what I think it is? Am I going to like this? Can I still get out of it?
Is this over yet? Can't you see I'm working hard here not to cry??!!
Did I have fun?

Committee Work

2011-08-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

I am not a good committee member, unless it is a committee of one ~ ME! This, once again, became very apparent to me as I worked on a project with several other people. I am going to do my best not to reveal what type of group this was, as I really did enjoy some of the people on it. This issue is more about me than them.
I like to be in charge, or, as my daughter will tell you, large and in charge! Hence the nickname that has stuck for decades, Biggsuzi! I make decisions easily and quickly and waiting for others to arrive at a decision feels like a long, painful drive down a road on which I don't want to be. My impatience rears its ugly head and I start to tap my toe under the table in annoyance. Let's move on, I want to shout. It is not a major life decision but the color of a napkin. Pick already!!
I like to be the giver, the planner, the boss. I don't like to be the receiver, reactor, or a follower. My family, long ago, decided it was far easier to just let me go and make the plans and be in charge. I like it and I am good at it. I look at the map and they look out the window.
Trouble is, most of life is a cooperative effort and not a one man (woman) show. I have had to learn to "play nice with the other kids". I must admit, good things have come out of working in a group that might otherwise not have been. I know this in my head, but forget it in my heart. I struggle with it often. Like the magnet on my fridge says "I am not bossy. I just have better ideas!"
Still learning....

What's In Your Closet?

2011-08-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

We all know the commercial that asks, "What's in your wallet?" Well, I propose to ask a similar question, "What's in your closet?" I have become painfully aware in the last few months that we have too much stuff! In most any one's closet, there are items that we hang onto, for heaven only knows what reason. You know what I'm talking about. We all have something. This picture is of a pair of shoes that I bought eight to ten years ago. At the time, I fell in love with them. They are Charles David, 4.5 inch heels that cost about $200. I bought them first and built the outfit around them. I felt sexy and beautiful when I wore them. People always commented on them. They killed my feel after fifteen minutes. I didn't care. I have not taken these shoes from their shelf in at least six years. I am never going to wear 4.5 inch heels again. My runner's feet protest in anything above a 1.5 inch heel. I have taken to ballet flats of every color and Tom's shoes. Why are these shoes still in my closet? Why do I hang onto the batik (remember that word?) sheer top I bought in Hawaii when I was 21? I will never wear it again either.
Maybe this is a metaphor for what we hang onto in life that we need to let go. What do we hang on to because we just do? What behaviors do we continue even though they don't get us any closer to where we really want to be in life? What relationships do we hang onto even though they make us feel worse about ourselves rather than better? What do we need to throw away to make room for something better?
So, what's in your closet??

Wordless Wednesday ~ Friendship

2011-08-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

Fall Faves

2011-08-23T08:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's still hot outside, but I find myself longing for fall, with it's cooler temps and soft breezes. I also am starting to get the itch to bake and make soups and stews, something that just seems wrong when the sun is blazing.
My mother was a terrible cook. She didn't mind serving us the Friday night required mac n cheese from the freezer in the aluminum tin. I, on the other hand, have always been on the quest for great macaroni and cheese to serve my family. I came upon this recipe this summer and can't wait to try it. After all, it combines two of my favorite things ~ bacon and the crock pot. What could be better? Now, I admit, it is far from health food, but, once in a while, don't we need solid, stick to your ribs kind of food? Isn't that why they call it "comfort food"?

INGREDIENTS

3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 12 oz)

1/4 cup butter or margarine, cut into pieces

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

1 1/2 cups half-and-half

3 cups shredded mild Cheddar cheese (12 oz)

8 oz (half of 16-oz loaf) prepared cheese product, cut into cubes

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/2 cup chopped packaged precooked bacon (about 8 slices from 2.1-oz package)

DIRECTIONS

1 Spray 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Cook and drain macaroni as directed on package, using minimum cook time. Place macaroni in slow cooker; immediately add butter and stir until melted. 2 Add evaporated milk, half-and-half, 2 1/2 cups of the Cheddar cheese, the cubed cheese, mustard, salt and pepper; stir to blend well. 3 Cover; cook on Low heat setting 2 to 3 hours, stirring once halfway through cooking time. During last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese and the bacon.

Macaroni and cheese is a great dish for adding herbs and other ingredients to give it a unique or new flavor. For example, during the last few minutes of cooking, stir in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup salsa, cubed ham, caramelized onion or chopped cooked vegetables (such as broccoli or asparagus), or 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Packaged precooked bacon is a quick way to get great bacon flavor, but instead, you can cook 8 regular bacon slices until crisp, then drain well and crumble.

Blue

2011-08-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

Colors are often associated with feelings ~ green with envy, feeling blue. Well, in this case "feeling blue" has nothing to do with feeling sad. It's more like the Bluebird of Happiness! What could be better than birthday cupcakes that taste so fine and stay on your tongue and lips long after they are gone?!
Maddy's eyes are so big and Abigail's are as blue as her lips! Now how many people can say that?!?!
Lesson: If you're feeling blue, eat a cupcake with blue frosting and snap out of it!!!

Feet

2011-08-19T09:05:00.000-07:00

“Your feet will bring you to where your heart is.”
I have always loved baby feet. Now, I know I am stretching it a bit to call these "baby" feet, as the owner is three and a half and, when you call her a baby, you are sure to get the stink eye look from her! Why can't they understand they will always be my babies??
Feet...not thought about much unless they hurt and usually not very pretty on most, even with a pedicure, are an important reminder to consider the small stuff in life. Thinking about the big picture can be daunting sometimes and immobilize us to do nothing. Breaking things down into smaller steps to make changes allows us the idea that we can do what needs to be done, one step at a time. People ask how I run 13.1 miles and I always answer, I just put one foot in front of the other and keep going. Thinking about the entire race can seem like an impossible goal, but keeping myself moving just until the next tree or the next turn breaks it down into small, doable pieces. I need to apply this theory to my life as well. Some days, some weeks, heck, some years are hard. The trick is to keep moving...moving ahead, moving on, moving forward. It also doesn't hurt to have some sweet baby feet to tickle now and then!

The Mirror

2011-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

I look in the mirror

And what do I see?

Some old lady looking back at me!

How did this happen?

Where did the time go?

I used to be cool & in the know!

Wrinkles, age spots

Is there a new one today?

If I count them, I won’t say!

Inside I’m still a babe

Witty, attractive, in my prime

Truth be told, running out of time!

What’s the next step?

Do I give up & let the gray show?

I’m just not ready to let it go!

Do you just stop caring?

Blame it on all the years?

Some of these thoughts bring me to tears!

I won’t give up!

I’ll fight it every step of the way!

Make it all count, every single day!

If I hang out at rest homes

Eye candy I’ll still be

Suddenly the young chick, hey look at me!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

Anniversary

2011-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today we have been married 36 years. When people hear this, they often seem amazed, impressed, or even astonished. In today's disposable society, it seems to be quite a feat. I detest the term "wedded bliss" because there is no such thing! I don't know of a marriage out there that would first use the word bliss to describe their marriage. It is work ~ plain and simple. Just as the vows we recited to each other all those years ago promised, there have been times of "richer and poorer, sickness and health". When you stand before your spouse-to-be, your family and friends on that wedding day, you may think you understand these promises, but it isn't until later, when life rolls along (and sometimes over you!) that you are really asked to re-keep those promises. Therein lies the essence of marriage. You have to choose your spouse and your marriage over and over again.
Sometimes, you don't choose it. You sit across the dining room table and think, "What am I doing here with this person? I hate the way they breathe (or fill in your own verb here)!" These feelings are as loud and true as the ones you felt on your wedding day. This is when many people leave and look to start again with someone else who will be smarter, funnier, more serious, etc., etc. Who, married for a long period of time, hasn't considered an escape hatch or wondered what they are missing? Knowing you are not alone with these feelings is comforting. We all have these moments.
So, if I get this less than satisfied feeling, why do I stay? I stay because, for all his irritating traits that make me crazy, he is still the finest man I have ever met in my life. We don't agree on many things, but he is a silent force that will take care of his family and the people he loves, no matter what it takes. He will never be the guy who writes on Facebook, "I love my wife!!" He is the guy who makes sure the windows and doors are locked at night to keep us safe. He is the guy who will quietly go to Pei Wei for dinner when he really was hoping for Mexican food. He is the guy who will leave the others to enjoy the last of their dinner and glass of wine and go push the babies on the swings just because they asked. He is the guy who may not read my mind for what I need, but, when asked, he will do whatever it is I want. Not because he is a pushover, but because he loves me. He knows me better than anyone on this earth and, somehow, amazingly, still loves imperfect me! Now that is wedded bliss!!

I Scream!

2011-08-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, all it takes for a day to be a good one is ice cream!
It reminds us that being happy can mean the little things in life are special if we take the time to notice.

It can really put a smile on our face!

And remind us to share the joy!!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Bday Boy

2011-08-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Go To Snack

2011-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I used to make this snack for my family when the kids were young all the time. Somehow I had forgotten about it and haven't made it in ages. To give you an idea of how long it's been, I have never made it for the grand kids and Maddy's almost seven!! That is about to change! All it takes is three ingredients that are most likely in your pantry and refrigerator already ~ Triscuit crackers, cream cheese and salsa.
Take a cracker, dab it with a little cream cheese and then top the cream cheese with a bit of salsa. Done!! The down side is they do not keep well and can't be made ahead of time. The up side is that they are usually consumed before they make it to the serving platter!
Try it and let me know if your family likes it as much as mine.

Magic

2011-08-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

And in the magic of a small moment, they realized how very colorless their lives would be without each other.

Happy Is as Happy Does

2011-08-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

There was an interesting article in Sunday's paper asking questions that would help you see if you know how to be happy. Everyone claims they want to be happy, but often, we are actually thwarting our own happiness in simple ways. Do cheerful people generally a) do only activities they enjoy b) look for little ways to boost their mood during the day or c) don't give happiness much thought? The answer is (c). The pursuit of happiness can actually backfire, say experts at the University of Denver. People who place a high value on happiness have, on average, 17 more symptoms of depression than those who don't. Constantly searching and seeking to achieve happiness may actually find us further from it, rather than closer.
My husband is an example of someone who lives his life, good or bad, easy or difficult, and, when asked, would probably say he is pretty happy with all of it. Oh, it has been far from perfect. Frustration and disappointment are part of life's package, but he doesn't dwell on any of it too long. He just keeps going and expects each day to be a good one. He doesn't pursue happiness. He is just smart enough to recognize it is there for the taking.
You'd think after 40+ years of being together, I'd have picked up that lesson from him. Still working on it....

Wordless Wednesday ~ Run Like a Girl

2011-07-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

Svoboda Camping

2011-07-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

We decided to try out the new tent before we go camping next month. What better place than Svoboda Campground? Pa put it up in the backyard amid lovely shrubs and trees with no wild animals in sight (except Jack!).

What camp out is complete without S'Mores? Ummm, where did that wine come from? Please ignore!
Funny, Jack doesn't like to eat marshmallows, but he loves to brown them over the fire!

Maddy holds the record for most S'Mores eaten without barfing!!
Abbey gets as much in her mouth as in her hair!
Doesn't every campsite have a very long extension cord to plug in your computer so you can watch a DVD in the tent?
We may not be conventional campers, but we are still creating memories! As they finally settled in the sleeping bags, Maddy said, "This has been the best night ever!" Worth more than gold, I tell you!!!

Friday Fairy

2011-07-22T08:56:00.000-07:00

"I think that people who can't believe in fairies aren't worth knowing." ~Tori Amos

Some of you aren't lucky enough to have one of your own, so thought I'd share my Friday Fairy with you. She spreads her wings and her joy to all she sees. Repeat after me, "I believe. I believe."
HAPPY FAIRY FRIDAY!

Say What?!

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

"I just wish my mouth had a backspace key." ~Author Unknown

What's your favorite form of communication in today's world? Text, email, phone, in-person conversation? There are so many ways of communicating these days, I am always surprised when you don't get a timely response from someone. Occasionally, I send an email that goes unanswered for days, but if I send the same question, to the same person via text, they respond in a nanosecond! How are you supposed to know what people prefer? I like words. I like talking. I like communicating and expressing ideas. Many people are not as "connected" as others. They don't look at emails or Facebook ten times a day. Some, I hear, don't look at it ten times in a month! I can't imagine! I think Facebook is a wonderful way of staying in touch with people that you otherwise might not. I call it "layered friendship". It is not the level of your family or best friends, but you still care about these people and what is happening in their lives. I enjoy seeing what they are up to via posts and photos. I try to respond, even if it's just to hit the LIKE button. That way, I feel like it is actually a relationship and not me just creeping on their lives. I know how I feel when someone comments or "likes" something I post. It makes me feel good and that I are being heard. Isn't that what we all hunger for, to be heard? So, I just need to know if you want me to text, email or call you! :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

Hot Days= Iced Coffee

2011-07-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

The temperatures are supposed to hit triple digits in California this week, which made me think about my morning coffee. I can't imagine starting my day without my morning joe, but it is hard to drink hot coffee in sweltering temps. I have been working on the perfect cup of iced coffee and wanted to share some ideas. Iced coffee is at its best when brewed with twice the usual amount of coffee, because the coffee is diluted with the melting ice cubes.
To avoid a diluted taste, you can also use regular-strength brewed coffee and serve it over coffee ice cubes. Prepare coffee ice cubes by pouring cooled coffee into ice cube trays and freezing. Add to your coffee along with your usual cream and sugar.
These tips for iced coffee can hold you over through the rest of the summer heat and when it's fall, we have Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes to look forward to!!

Paradise

2011-07-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

“Our memories of the ocean will linger on, long after our footprints in the sand are gone.”
The beach was our playground today. The kids ran into the waves, laughed, got sandy and did it all again. Their faces reflect the joy they felt. The sky was clear, the ocean warm and blue. It was paradise. But, then again, anywhere these three faces smile is paradise!

Blogs

2011-07-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

I had to smile this morning when I saw this cartoon in the newspaper. Even Garfield, which has been around since 1978, has gone modern and refers to blogs! Aside from being up on the current times, it also speaks to the fact that we now are given so much more information from people. Some of this information is about things that, years ago, we would have only told our closest friends. Tossing it out there in cyberspace, we are not quite sure where it lands. Sure, I can view Google Analytics and see just how many people read my blog each day, if this is their first visit or if they are a repeat reader, where they live, how long they stay on the blog, etc. Again, the modern world and its mass of information that it provides to us.
I write the blog for me, but there is a measure of satisfaction that so many are continually reading it. I write about things that have meaning for me, but it feels good to know they have meaning for others as well. Maybe the lesson is, as different as we all are, we are also very similar. We are not alone (while hiding under the couch!).

Wordless Wednesday ~ Oh, Elmo!

2011-07-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

Beach Party

2011-07-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Creating an indoor beach party is one of my favorite themes to use in the summer. A little sand, a few shells and a plastic bucket. I have even used it for VERY fancy dinner parties, much to the delight of the guests. Instead of a tablecloth, I use actual beach towels on the table. The biggest hit of the evening are the cupcakes for dessert. Look closely. You can see the sand (brown sugar), the waves (blue frosting from a tip), beach ball (round candies) and the beach umbrella. Yes, it's a little more work that your normal cupcakes, but so worth the effort! Nothing makes me smile more than someone saying, "You are so clever!"

Our Abbey

2011-07-09T09:21:00.000-07:00

Abigail is such an interesting child. I look at this picture and see a tiny baby; our little #3. At that point in time, her personality remained a mystery.

Fast forward to now and here she is! Queen of the scowls! I have no idea why she was giving me this fierce look. She loves hot dogs and, in fact, ate three this day! I laugh when she gives these looks which only adds fuel to her fire. I can't help but think up a few captions for this photo:
"What?! No juice?"
"Smile? On demand?! What am I a trained monkey?"
"You didn't put my towel in the right place."
"Can't you see I'm tired and over it?!"
Whatever she was thinking, gotta love those looks! Keep 'em coming, Abs!

Do You Really Want to Know?

2011-07-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

At some point in time, most of us have said, "I wish I knew what my future holds. I wish I had a crystal ball." But do we really want to know? If you could jump ahead a few chapters in the book of your life, would you read it? As much as I am a total control freak, I am not so sure. As we unfold our own unique story, many things happen to us ~ both good and bad. No life is without its struggles and strife. Sometimes we look at other people and think they have it so easy or they are so lucky. Truth be told, they, too, have their challenges. My husband's favorite quote is, "Everybody's got a story." This is a simple truth.
Reading (and writing) the story of my life is a daily gift. It is not without its very ordinary time and an occasional plot twist. At times I wish I could see the future and what it holds for my family and me. Logically, I know this is not possible. The best I can do is be in the present and enjoy the story as it unfolds. I can also hope it is a long time before I read the words ~ THE END!

Wordless Wednesday ~ 1971

2011-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Simple Sundays

2011-07-04T09:16:00.000-07:00

We all long for the good life. Defined differently for people, it often includes fine dining in fancy restaurants, exotic vacations, etc. What I have come to know to be true for me is that I am living the good life and it is defined by far more simple things.
Sundays, when he is not traveling, is the time my son-in-law and I crack open a good bottle of wine and BBQ some steaks. We are constantly trying different bottles of reds and analyzing them. Why is it that, sometimes, a $35 bottle doesn't taste any better than our tried and true bottle of Wild Horse on sale for $14.99? In the interest of science and learning, we will continue to try more wine. HA!
Although it's not always a steak we BBQ, a thin rib eye is still our favorite. Sean puts Pa's on earlier than the others so it is really done the way her likes it. The two girls are total carnivores and we now must cook an additional steak for them to share. Jack sits beside us eating his chicken dinosaurs and Amber unwraps her bean and cheese burrito. Ahhh....
Perhaps the key to the good life is not in the location or the food, but in who is beside you enjoying it.
Insert a little prayer of thanksgiving here.

The Pink Princess

2011-07-01T17:01:00.000-07:00

Well, today I finally stepped off the iPhone cliff and got one. I know, I am a dinosaur that waited 2.5 years behind everybody else with this technology. Although I am sure I will love it shortly, right now I am circling it like it is a monster ready to consume me. Already I have exasperated my daughter with my lack of tech savvy and all my questions. Getting this new phone made me think about the first phone my parents let me get for my bedroom when I was in the 7th grade. It was this exact pink princess. Please note the rotary dial! After all, it was 1966 and it was the latest thing!! It was such an exciting, rite of passage for a young girl ~ a phone in her room and a pink phone, no less! I felt terribly grown up. Who knew then what the world would hold now ~ computers, cell phones, texting, skyping, voice mail and email?! I may be slow to the party, but I plan to keep learning and growing as long as I can. After all, anybody who had a pink princess phone has to stay up on the latest trends!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

Sunglasses

2011-06-27T14:12:00.000-07:00

"My future's so bright, I gotta wear shades."
Today is National Sunglasses Day so it seems fitting to give sunglasses some thought. My daughter & I love to wear our sunglasses, even on cloudy days. We both have very sensitive eyes and need to keep them protected. Another reason we like to wear them is, we think it makes you look so much better in photographs. I dislike being in photos, but can tolerate the ones where I am wearing my shades.
This photo is circa 1989 and was our Christmas card photo that year with the caption, "Have A Cool Yule!" We thought we were so cool! HA!

OC Wine Trolley

2011-06-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

On Friday night, we gathered "The Fab 15" as we deemed ourselves, and went for a fun two-hour ride aboard the OC Wine Trolley. It is hosted by local realtor, Al Ricci, and, frankly, I think it is a brilliant marketing move on his part. He obviously wants to sell houses and in these rough economic times, he thought of a way to keep his name out there and put a fun spin on it.
As we ride around Old Town Orange, Al gives his 26 passengers a little history lesson on Orange. He just keeps talking while the group chats and laughs and pays little attention. No, wait, maybe that was just our group! There are several stops at local restaurants where they come on board bearing tasty bites from their menu for us to sample. Everything was just yummy. Only suggestion I might have is to get the sturdier acrylic plates that have a place on the side to hang your wine glass. Oh, yes....the wine!! They were pouring what I expected to be tastes of several wines from Cupcake. Their pours were very generous and full glasses that seemed boundless. This may have added to the volume of The Fab 15 as the night continued!

Memories were made that night...and a few hangovers!!

Thin Pancakes

2011-06-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

"No matter how thin you make pancakes, there are always two sides."
Many of you probably saw this photo and thought this blog post was about food! Actually, isn't at all. It's another way of saying that there's two sides to every story. It's about the fact that we all carry opinions about situations and things and sometimes, we cling to these opinions, even in the face of facts that prove us wrong. I am guilt of this many times. I am a person with strong opinions. I can be very judgmental, both silently and vocally. This is my strong suit and my downfall. I make huge allowances for some people and I don't give others an inch to make a mistake. These are not pretty things to admit, but they are honest.
We all have opinions (our side of the pancake) and they feel valid and true for us. We cling to them sometimes even when they no longer serve us well. If this is true, then we must also acknowledge that the other person is clinging to an opinion (their side of the same pancake). It feels no less true and valid for them. Finding a happy medium between the two sides, even if it means respecting each other while we agree to disagree, is a sign of maturity and growth as a human being.
Please pass the syrup!

Wordless Wednesday - Happy Summer

2011-06-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Friend Power

2011-06-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

I was reminded once again today that friends are what make life worth living. Many studies have been done to test this theory. One study followed 1,500 older people for 10 years and found those with a larger network of friends outlived those with fewer friends by 22%. Why you may ask? Companionship provided by friends may ward off depression, boost self-esteem and provide support. The study also found that as people age, they are more selective in their choice of friends, so they spend more time with people they like. We tend to gravitate to people with similar interests. Just as a harried mom of preschoolers needs the company of other women in the same boat, older woman tend to enjoy girlfriends with like interests and needs. Spending time with our girlfriends is not a frivolous notion, it is a lifesaver. It is not something that we should try to fit into our busy schedule, it should be a priority that keeps us as healthy as regular visits to the doctor. And when I'm with my girlfriend, I don't have to get on the scale or take my clothes off ~ much better than the doctor!

Book It!

2011-06-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

Books are a big part of my life. There are stacks and stacks of them all over the house. I have still not moved to one of the many book readers on the market today. Not sure why, but it may be the same reason I choose to read my newspaper, in old school print form, at my kitchen table rather than online. I probably read three to four books a month, and, even with passing a few on to other book loving friends, they still add up. I ran across this wonderful idea that combines two of my favorite things ~ books and parties!
Gather a group of your fellow reader friends and have each bring a "bag of books" to trade ~ paperback, hardcover, anything that needs a home. Starting with the owner, each person writes their name on a sticky note inside the cover once they've read the book. After a book has made the rounds, it goes to a good cause such as a library or shelter. Serve a few snacks and drinks and you've got a party with a purpose. What could be better??

Ironing

2011-06-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

I hate to iron, but I love the look of ironed clothes. So, that means I force myself to iron. I know this is something of an old school thing. My daughter does not iron. She "dryer irons". You know, toss the item you want to wear in the dryer for a few minutes to get out the wrinkles and then put it on. Her children have never seen her iron. I will never forget watching a TV program with Maddy and the woman was ironing and she asked, "Grammie, what's that lady doing??"
Women of my generation have spent countless hours ironing for their family; hours we will never get back. Did it make our kids look better? Did anyone notice? Was it worth it? Have many of us have given it up or do we continue to do it out of habit? I am going to give this some deep thought as I iron my jeans to wear tonight!

Ummm...Donuts!

2011-06-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

The kids (with the help of mommy's wallet), bought me a Babycakes Donut maker for my birthday this week. I have already written about the Babycakes mini cupcake maker. It has been used more times than I can count! "Mini" anything is the trend these days. You see it at parties, weddings, etc. Bites or tastings are all the rage. It actually makes sense because it is fun and easy to try several things that only take a bite or two to eat. It's finger food at it's best.

How cute are these donuts? The machine makes six every five minutes. I found that after the first batch, I set the timer for four minutes instead. Like my cookies, I like to under cook them a little to keep them on the soft side.
For the first batch, we made simple white cake donuts and covered them in cinnamon and sugar. Here is my official "shaker upper" with the bag of donuts, cinnamon & sugar.
The kit even provides a small cooling rack. Check out how tasty they look once they are coated.
Maddy's official review was, "Grammie, these are SO GOOD! Can I have another?" The batch made 22 mini donuts and they were all eaten within three hours! Pa only got one!
Next up, I am going to made homemade glaze for glazed donuts and I am going to frost them in colors to match the theme of a party and serve them on a three-tiered tray.
Funny thing is, I love to make them and am not even tempted to eat them. Now, if it were salty and savory, that's another story!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Birthday Girl

2011-06-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

Kind of hard to believe I had self esteem issues growing up, huh? What with the foxy blue winged glasses, incredibly fashion forward shorts set, my Pebbles doll & a band aid on my knee, who wouldn't feel great about themselves?!?!?!
Another year older and hopefully wiser. If not wiser, than just a little more forgiving to myself and all my shortcomings. I am thankful for my life, band aids, bumps and all!

Monday Munchies

2011-06-13T08:03:00.000-07:00

Summer is the season for longer days, vacations (even stay-cations) and easy, fun food. Lately, we have been replacing our traditional hamburgers with sliders. They are just a smaller version of the burger. We use turkey, seasoned well for flavor, and those addicting Hawaiian sweet rolls for the buns. The beauty of the small size is that you can limit yourself to just one (yeah, right!!) or have two or three. You can easily mix it up by adding an ingredient or two: feta cheese & fresh dill, mozzarella & pasta sauce, pepper jack & an avocado slice (see below). The possibilities are endless.
Fruit is a mainstay of summer and we love it all. Yes, you can cut it up (or pay a little extra and buy it pre-cut) and throw it in a bowl, but we think the little extra effort of putting it on skewers adds so much. These fruit skewers are pressed into the top of a watermelon. The watermelon was cut in half and hollowed out. Turn it over and place it on a plate or platter and place the skewers however you would like. Now you have a nice display of fruit. These can be used for all different occasions. Parties, showers, graduations or just to eat for fun!
A word or two about avocados. It's always upsetting to watch a luscious (and expensive) Haas avocado turn from vibrant green to icky brown after you cut into it. I often slice avocados just before serving, adding yet another time-sensitive step to getting dinner on the table. Leaving it to last, I often forgot to serve it all together. Then, I read about this tip: Rinsing or submerging the cut avocado in cold water prevents the sliced and exposed fruit from browning for hours. So simple ~ who knew? Try it. It works.

Indoor Camping

2011-06-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

“Children will not remember you for the material things you provided
but for the feeling that you cherished them.”

Many things are said about loving children, but this quote touched me because it uses the verb cherish instead of love. Cherish holds such a higher value than even love. I mean, I love Starbucks coffee, but I certainly don't cherish it. I love a clean, organized house, but I don't cherish it. Now, these three little noisy, messy creatures in this pictures, these I cherish. We had a sleepover x 3 and it was not without it's bumps and tears, but, all in all, it was so much fun to cuddle down beside them and watch the movie together while rubbing their sweet little heads. Sleepy kisses flowed freely along with, "I love you, Grammie." In the not too distant future, their sleepovers will not include me, but their friends. Their wings sprout faster than we can ever imagine and that is why I cherish these moments and the memories they give me.