My Recipes for Life

I've got nothing

2009-04-05T20:33:00.003-04:00

I have a cold. I am stuffy, feverish, tired, and...well, you get the picture. I want very much to go to bed, but am finding myself unable to move from the couch. Being sick really stinks.

Slight Miss

2009-04-02T06:53:00.003-04:00

I went to bed very early last night. As a result, I was up very early this morning. I hung out with Paco for a bit, until he left to help a friend. (Paco is recently unemployed. Our friend had rotator cuff surgery and cannot do his job completely so Paco is helping him.) After showering, I decided to be the BEST MOM EVER and make cinnamon rolls for breakfast. While there is dough, sugar, butter and cinnamon in the pan, I would say that is where the similarity ends. The dough was too sticky, I was afraid to add too much flour...I have essentially created ugly dough with sugar and cinnamon. Let's hope they taste good.

Ashley - the list has not made it's way to me. Here is another item, although not has funny when it's out of context: We're sorry, Jim and Ashley, we were going to come to your wedding, but decided to visit Cracker Barrel instead. We're sure you understand.

Here I Am

2009-03-29T07:33:00.005-04:00

This blog has been on my mind lately, although I have still been noticeably absent. I am currently far-ish from home at the wedding of two friends and was reminded, in a not-so-subtle way, that I have let way too much time pass between postings. So, Ashley this one is for you! (Ashely, come back soon for the list of ridiculous things C and I came up with on our drive here that we were going to miss your wedding for. Need a hint? "We are sorry, Jim and Ashley, we were going to come to your wedding, but then we became involved in Naval Support Activities. We're sure you understand.")

I need to back into writing again, for many reasons, so I am making it a priority to come back to my blogging home. While I sit here in a hotel lobby, drinking coffee and waiting for a sleeping friend, I realize that writing is very often how I have been able to work through things in my life and that recently there have been too many things that I really do need to address, both in my mind and out in the world. Let your blog-reading friends know...here I am!

Falalalalalalalala

2008-12-03T22:26:00.002-05:00

I have been Christmas shopping and Christmas making and Christmas baking. Because there are some rather frustrating things going on in my life, I keep going back and forth between feeling really festive and really depressed. The festive side wins most of the time, but I could really use some prayers to help me get through some stuff!

I finally purchased the Angel Tree item that I needed to get. I only have a few gifts to buy. The biggest thing left to do is decorate and bring my Christmas dishes up.

Oh, and I WANT SOME SNOW!

TBell Amusement

2008-11-18T02:57:00.004-05:00

I am probably sharing more of the conversation than I need to, but decided the actual exchange is better than me writing a story about it.

TBell (age 6): Mommy, can we go to Washington DC?

Me: Why?

TBell: Because I want to see all of the buildings and the White House

Paco: We'll take you when you are older, TBell, there's a lot of walking and you have to be into it.

Me: Your father is wrong! I went when I was in first grade just like you. I remember because I fell feeding the ducks and ripped my Jordache jeans.

TBell: You're wrong, Daddy!

Me: I would also like to take you to Williamsburg.

Tbell: What is that?

Me: It's a town that does things like they did in colonial days. You can see people make candles and horseshoes. They dress like people used to dress. You would really like it.

TBell: Is it old-fashioned?

Me: Yes

Tbell: Is it in black and white?

Glass Etching

2008-11-14T22:04:00.003-05:00

Like I said before, glass etching sounds much more complicated than it actually is. Below is a list of what you need for your first project: Polka dot glasses

etching cream - any craft store should have it

glass (a set of glasses - tumblers or wine glasses, perhaps - from anywhere...even the dollar store)

paper to cover your table

rubber gloves

q-tips (The name brand work best here...the cotton stays on better)
paper reinforcers, those little round sticker that you use for loose leaf paper

Wash the glasses and dry them thoroughly. Spread the paper out to cover your table. Take each glass and arrange the stickers in a nice pattern. Once done with all of the glasses, put the rubber gloves on. Open the etching cream. Dip your q-tip into the cream and carefully put an ample amount of cream inside the circle of each sticker. You need to use enough that it covers the hole nicely, but not so much that it drips down. The cream will turn any piece of glass it touches, so be careful. After waiting 10-15 minutes, dip the glass into a warm bath and carefully wash off the stickers and cream. Dry the glasses again.

Polka dots were my first project and are by far the easiest. I have done initials and other things, but love the dots the most. You can buy stencils, as well, when you are ready to move on to bigger things.

Holiday Gift Giving

2008-11-12T20:23:00.003-05:00

I really enjoy giving homemade gifts for Christmas. The gifts don't always turn out the way I had hoped, but the receiver is always happy and I admit that I can be a bit self-critical. In the spirit of the holidays, I have decided to give you some ideas for homemade gifts that you can in turn make and give to the people in your life. (By the way, if you are looking for some great canning/food item gifts to give, you should look to my sister here. I may add one or two food items, but not many.)

Things I have made in the in the past:

1. knit scarves (I am attempting to knit legwarmers this year - I will keep you posted on those results.)

2. stamped note cards

3. mixed cd with a hand-stamped cover (This was a favorite of mine - I found songs that my family listened to when I was young, many of which we hadn't heard in years, and made a mix. I also converted a homemade tape of my sisters and I as children singing various songs into a CD and burned it onto the mix.)

4. etched glasses (wine glasses as well as tumblers) - this one sounds much harder than it is. I will give instructions soon in a different post.

5. beer bread mix in a canning jar - I will also post instructions for this

6. homemade vanilla

I think there are many more things that I should have on this list, but I can't think at the moment. However, I encourage everyone to add at list one handmade gift to their list this year...it's so satisfying!

Fried Rice Update

2008-11-11T20:29:00.004-05:00

I ended up making the fried rice tonight instead of yesterday. (See? I never end up doing things as I had planned. We didn't go out last night, though. Paco made pancakes because I had a meeting.) It was SO good! I heated some sesame oil in a pan and then added the chopped meat from Sunday. After that was heated through, I added the leftover carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower from Sunday's dinner as well as the cold brown rice I had pre-made. Once all of it was heated through, I just used a fried rice seasoning packet and some soy sauce. It was really, really good. I served it with frozen eggrolls. I know I could probably make those, too, but I have to draw the line somewhere for quick dinners. I used to make fried dumplings every Christmas Eve and serve an assortment of homemade and restaurant purchased Chinese food. But, Christmas Eve tradtitions continue to evolve and I don't do that anymore.

Planned Dining

2008-11-09T14:02:00.003-05:00

I always have good intentions for weekly meal planning, but it just never works out. I very rarely end up making what I initially thought I would or Paco uses something I was counting on or I thaw the meat but we end up eating out. Today, however, I have a plan. I am making a beef roast, which I have never done before, for dinner this evening. It will be served with cheesy mashed potatoes, vegetables, gravy and biscuits. I am also making some brown rice to be cooled and placed in the fridge. Tomorrow, we will be having fried rice with sliced leftover meat from tonight's roast. I think I may buy some egg rolls to serve with the fried rice, but that assumes that I will make it to the store before then. Since I have already been to store once today I am not sure if I will have the energy or desire to go back.

It's On

2008-11-04T05:15:00.003-05:00

It's Election Day. I am terrified. This is the first election that I have become so emotional that I am having a hard time keeping quiet. I typically don't like to talk about politics at work or in other "public" places because I am not going to change anybody's mind just by spouting off my beliefs. While this method has worked for many years, it is not effective this year. However, I don't know that it's just me - people on both sides seem to be more vocal this year.

Whatever your opinion, be sure to get out there and vote. It is our right!

iPod Woes

2008-09-20T07:37:00.004-04:00

Paco gave me an iPod mini a few years ago and I love it. (That does not mean that I don't want an iTouch, because I totally do. It just means that I appreciate the good times my mini has given me and prefer it to, say, Princess' very-hard-to-work mp3 player we gave her because children don't need iPods.) The mini has always been synced to our desktop since that's the computer we had when I received the iPod. I decided to sync it with my laptop today and am embarrassed to admit that I am totally confused/surprised. After a few minutes, I figured out how to transfer the music I purchased at iTunes. But, either I can't transfer the music I already owned or I am not smart enough to figure out how to do it. To be fair, I haven't tried very hard. I am one of those people that believes that this stuff should be very, very easy. If it isn't, I am generally too lazy to really go for it. One would never know that I work as a computer/internet professional based on my current iPod and Facebook problems. (Don't even get me started on Facebook!)

UPDATE: I found out how to do it and I am definitely too lazy to do it right now...if ever.

Bread

2008-09-17T20:34:00.009-04:00

I have wanted to post this bread recipe for quite a while. It is really tasty and very simple to make. Paco doesn't like homemade bread for sandwiches and stuff because it's too hard to have consistency in slice size. But, the kids loved it - it made great toast.

NOTES: You can probably get away with less sugar if you want. The recipe actually calls for more and I only use about 1/4 cup, although I think it's sometimes less. Also, I had intended to take more pictures and forgot. So, these are all you get.

INGREDIENTS

* 2 cups warm water
* 1/4 cup white sugar
* 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
* 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 6 cups bread flour

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, and then stir in yeast. Allow to proof until yeast resembles a creamy foam.
2. Mix salt and oil into the yeast. Mix in flour one cup at a time. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Place in a well oiled bowl, and turn dough to coat. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
3. Punch dough down. Knead for a few minutes, and divide in half. Shape into loaves, and place into two well oiled 9x5 inch loaf pans. Allow to rise for 30 minutes, or until dough has risen 1 inch above pans.
4. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Oh no!

2008-09-08T20:25:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it has been this long. I mean, I *swear* it was just last week that I posted. UGH! Well, at least I am here now. Sadly, the picture of my fab tattoo is not on this computer, so that will have to wait. Here is a great photo of the kids on the first day of school.

I cannot believe Pirate is in school!

I will leave you with a recent conversation I had with Princess:

Princess: Do I have to go to college?

Me: Well, I wouldn't worry about that right now - you have 10 more years. You have no idea what you will want to do with your life!

Princess: I don't want to do anything big.

Me: What do you mean by "nothing big"?

Princess: I just want to work at Mighty Taco.

So much for my working in a professional position, as a Webmaster, inspiring my daughters to make something of themselves!

I am stronger today...

2008-07-28T20:32:00.002-04:00

...than I was a month or two ago because I started running. Well, jogging. Anyway, a long time ago (if I had used labels I would know when, but I didn't) I made a list of all of the things I want to accomplish in my life and one of them is to complete a race. I told my friend I would do the Turkey Trot (an 8k) with him this year and since I couldn't even run to the corner at the time, I figured it was time to start training. I am proud to say that I can now jog 25 minutes without stopping. I am a bit slow, but I will work on my speed soon. I get up at 5 or 5:15 every week day to go to the gym before coming home to shower and get ready for work. I am a little disheartened today because I feel like my body should look different by now with all of this exercise. Paco insists that it does but I don't see it. However, I am focusing more on the running and the race and less on the weight loss and that seems to be working for me.

Completely unrelated news:
I got a tattoo. Come back soon for more info!

A Day Late

2008-07-05T11:23:00.003-04:00

Happy 4th! I really did mean to post yesterday, but vodka, camping and fun got in the way. So, I am doing it today.

I am currently sitting in a friends backyard, with a vodka tea*, watching men and children play Wiffle ball. I am in some shade on this hot day and really just enjoying myself.

Princess leaves for camp tomorrow; she is so excited! We had her hair cut this morning so it's a but easier for her to care for while she is away. She is taking a disposable camera with her...perhaps I'll post some of her pictures right here on this very blog!

That's it, folks. I hope you're all enjoying your holiday weekend!

*Apparently vodka-tea is a WNY thing. For those of you not from around these parts, you can make a vodka-tea by making instant iced tea then adding whatever amount of vodka you like. Citron works really well, but plain or any other flavor is also delicious.

Hey...does vodka-tea count as a recipe?

Another recipe with no picture

2008-06-27T21:29:00.002-04:00

I have made a completely wonderful cake TWICE recently and have forgotten to take a picture both times so I could share it with you. The first time I decided not to post because I was sure I would remember the next time. I clearly shouldn't trust myself that much!

Anyway, to make a super yummy chocolate cherry cake, you need the following:

1 well greased Bundt pan
1 chocolate cake mix
1 21oz can of cherry pie filling
3 eggs
1 tsp almond extract (I forgot this in cake 2 and it was still a big hit)
1 oven preheated to 350 degrees

Blend the cake mix, pie filling, eggs and extract on high for two minutes. Pour into pan and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes in the pan, then turn it over to completely cool on a rack.

If you would like, make this simple chocolate glaze for the top:

Combine 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1T butter, 2T milk, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar in a saucepan and heat over low until completely combined/melted. Pour over cooled cake.

Now eat it!

The Weeked Continued

2008-06-15T21:02:00.003-04:00

The cookout was a complete success. There was plenty of food and drink, even for the unexpected guests, and fun was had by all. The highlight for me was the rave reviews my rhubarb pie received. I have never made any sort of pie before (other than the pudding variety). Paco has been asking me since about the first day we met - 14 years ago - to make him a strawberry rhubarb pie and I have been too afraid. I can cook and bake many things, but pies just seemed too hard. Yesterday at the market, though, I took the plunge and bought some rhubarb. I will admit that I had some trouble with the crust, but for my first time it worked out okay. Sadly, I didn't think to take a picture. I used this recipe and highly recommend it. In fact, my mother-in-law even said it was good!

The Weekend

2008-06-14T21:03:00.003-04:00

Paco and I are having a Father's Day cookout tomorrow; I have so much to do. But, instead of doing dishes or looking for my outdoor napkin holder that matches my plastic-wear holder, I am blogging. Seriously, I need help. My house still needs to be picked up to a point that my mother can at least walk through on her way to the bathroom. Anyone who knows my mother will realize that it may not actually be possible to make my mother happy in this regard...I do have to try, though.

VERY EXCITING, AND COMPLETELY UNRELATED, NEWS
I bought a tomato plant at my local farmer's market today. I really, really wanted to plant a garden this year and it just didn't happen. But, this plant is already started and has some tomatoes started. As long as I don't kill it, I will at least grow a very small portion of the food we'll be eating this summer.

Things I am Feeling Bitter About Right Now

2008-06-10T20:49:00.003-04:00

1. Just as I was thinking of going to bed because I am so stupidly tired, I remembered that I have proofreading to do. (Probably at least 40 pages.) Now I can't go to bed. I probably shouldn't be wasting my time writing this...

2. A few days ago I posted about the car problems we were having. That cost $300. Two days later, we had to take the car back and LEAVE IT THERE. WE STILL DON'T HAVE IT. The new estimate is $1600.

3. Something I can't really talk about, but could use some prayers! I think something good is going to happen, but some very difficult things have to happen first and I am starting to lose faith.

4. Did I mention how tired I am?

Feeling Funny?

2008-06-04T20:42:00.003-04:00

I am currently feeling the need to be very funny. Problem is, I realize that I don't necessarily have the material I need to be funny. I mean, I am not a comedian or anything so I don't have constant jokes at my disposal (or in my brain for that matter). But, I like to think that I am an entertaining person. People near me often laugh. Wait...do you think they're laughing *at* me? Horrors. I think I need some medication now.

ASIDE: I received a piece of flair on facebook that said "Automatic doors make me feel like a Jedi" and another that had a stick figure that was thinking "this is not a good sign" while looking at a sign that said "bad"...I think I am stuck in 7th grade because both of these made me laugh OUT LOUD.

Disaster of the Day

2008-06-04T05:36:00.003-04:00

The car is sitting in the driveway leaking some sort of awful liquid. Paco is leaving in 15 minutes with his dad so he can get to work because I am going to have the car towed a little later. (Note the ridiculous time.) I feel like every drip that comes out of the car is a few more dollars added to the cost at the end of the day...I hate car repairs.

I am feeling a but guilty right now because Princess brought home a sheet for a field trip and she is wanting me to go with her; there is no way I can. She's going to be upset, though, because I just went on one with TBell. Paco can't go because he just took time off for childcare reasons and for Grandma's memorial service. AHHHH! I really do like working, but this is the stuff that is so frustrating. I just hope she understands that I would really love to go with her if it were more possible.

Trying Something New On

2008-06-02T19:03:00.002-04:00

So, Jillian got a new template from here and I liked it so much, I thought I would try one, too! I am not sure this is the final one, though. I am still thinking. If I felt up to it, I would modify things I don't love to see if I would like it more. I am feeling lazy, though, and probably won't. I will say one thing - I *love* the pink.

Life

2008-05-31T07:23:00.005-04:00

Today is Grandma's memorial service. I still haven't really cried yet; I imagine today will be the day. Paco has to speak, so I know that will send me over the edge. We explained some of what is going to happen to the kids, and prepared them to see s crying. Princess said that she will cry, too, which is pretty characteristic as she is a pretty sensitive girl. TBell asked if we are going to eat...also pretty characteristic.

I am writing this post as I sit and drink a cup of coffee, waiting for the Paco to take a shower and the kids to wake up. It's been a long couple of weeks and I am anxious for this service to be over. Not only have I been stressed about today, but work has been particularly stressful the last couple of days in a way that is all-consuming. Maybe something stronger than coffee will do the trick.

A brighter note is that I am going to be fitted for a bridesmaid dress tomorrow for sister-in-law's wedding. The top will be champagne and the bottom will be black. I am planning on the getting the shorter skirt, but am still up in the air about the top. We are all (5 of us) allowed to pick whatever combination we want, so that's very nice. It's the beginning of a very expensive year since all five in this house are in the wedding.

That about sums up my life at the moment. I wrote some new articles that I will need to add links for. And, I am thinking of changing my layout...stay tuned!

PS - I just want to say how happy I am for Jillian and her recent good news. I have never met her, but she is a friend of a friend and therefore important to me. Congratulations, Jillian, on all of your recent good news!

UPDATE: Paco had to speak at the service today. He started crying before he even started talking, which caused Pirate to get upset. A minute later, I heard Princess wailing behind me (she was sitting with a friend of mine) and had to pawn Pirate off on my future sister-in-law so I could take Princess out of the sanctuary. She got upset when she heard Paco talk about how she was named after Grandma. Oh dear, at least the hardest part is over now. We are all getting changed and heading over for a more informal gathering that is sure to be fun.

Tears

2008-05-19T21:56:00.004-04:00

Paco's grandmother passed away in her sleep the other day. Strangely, I haven't been able to really process it yet. My in-laws are planning a memorial service for the end of May - I think that's part of the problem...I need it to be sooner.

We told the kids and no one really said too much. However, two days later, I had this conversation with Pirate:

Pirate: I miss Butterball (Note - Butterball was my cat that lived at my parents house. He died about a year or two ago...sadly, I can't really remember when.)

Me: I know, honey. He was a nice cat.

Pirate: He's in heaven now.

Me: Yes.

Pirate: When will he come back?

Me: He won't come back, honey, once you're in heaven you stay there.

Pirate, eyes wide: Grandma Jane is in heaven!

Me: Yes honey, she is.

Pirate: But that means I won't ever say hello to her again. (Cries a bit and sits on my lap.)

This conversation is what I keep thinking about. I can't seem to cry, though, as sad as I am.

Vodka Drinks in the Afternoon

2008-05-03T15:39:00.002-04:00

I am having a wonderful day off. It started out a bit shaky...Paco and I had an argument. But, we went to TBell's first soccer practice and saw some friends, which completely lightened our moods. Then, we came home and got some work done around the house. The girls have a friend over and I had some (two) vodka drinks. How much better can it get?

We are going to a birthday party for my sister's (sister 2) husband. I wonder if there will be vodka drinks there. Tomorrow TBell has a birthday party to attend and we all have a first communion party to attend. Expensive and busy Sunday!

Quick Tidbits

2008-04-28T21:47:00.002-04:00

First, here is a link to my latest Associated Content article. Please read and give me 50 million stars!

Second, I won $17.50 in the split-club raffle at a dinner tonight. Woo hoo!

Third (and last), we now have a pet fish named Lava. Our red beta fish was the center piece of our table at the Amherst Youth Foundation Gala this past weekend. Paco and I thought the kids would like him, so we purchased him and brought him home as a surprise. The girls were very excited, but Pirate said that a fish is not a surprise. Oh well...you can't please everyone.

The Joy of it All

2008-04-19T17:16:00.002-04:00

I am posting this from my kitchen table. You may be wondering why I would tell you something so silly. Well, I will tell you. We finally have a wireless network! I am using my fantastic new MacBook to give all of my thoughts to you. Yay!

First, we went to one of my boss' house today to pick up the wireless router I am currently using. We met each other's spouses while the kids played. We had a nice visit and were even able to unload some of our stuff (like a girl's bike, old winter coat, shoes, etc.).

Next we went to Aldi, where I got an awful lot for $50. I have some baking to do for a bakesale tomorrow and ended up getting so much more than what I needed. But, I am sure all of it will be used.

Paco and I actually set up a budget this morning. Wish us luck, or pray for us, or whatever you do, as we have never actually used or followed a budget before. We would really like it to work, though!

The plan for tonight, the last "fun" night of school break, is to use TBell's telescope. It is clear and almost 90 degrees here! Hopefully the night sky will be perfect for some family star-gazing.

That's it from here. What about you?

Seriously?

2008-04-13T16:48:00.002-04:00

Over a year ago, Paco's sister got engaged. There was lots and lots of discussion about the date then lots of time when nothing happened. About 1 1/2 months ago the hall was finally booked.

Paco and I are splitting season tickets to UB football this year with my father. I had mentioned to Paco that I did not want to miss the Army game (Army is actually coming here to play UB - this is HUGE!) so to not plan on going to that particular game with a friend or anything. He said that he had assumed I would want to go and had planned on attending together.

When do you think sister's wedding is?

And So it Goes...

2008-04-08T20:20:00.002-04:00

Time seems to be passing even more quickly now than it was before. Working full time outside of the house is certainly making things interesting around here. My strict 7:00pm bedtime for the kids seems to have fallen by the wayside. Oh well...everything will settle in time, I am sure.

Paco's grandmother has continued to rally each day. I haven't had the chance to see her in over a week, but I hear she is actually sitting up and feeding herself.

We watched Transformers last night. I didn't get it. I mean, I got it, but don't really understand why it was a movie. The story took *forever* to unfold. The acting wasn't all that great. Josh Duhamel is in it, so that at least made it somewhat fun to watch. But, I really don't recommend watching it unless you really like robots or something.

That's all I got...

Weekend Update

2008-03-30T15:02:00.002-04:00

The MAC use is going really well. I am actually very confident and the transition has been very easy.

My job is swell. I love it.

Paco's grandmother is not doing well. We were told the end is here, only to have her rally and get better. Then, she got worse. Then better. Then worse. I think you get the idea. It has been a slightly stressful few days. The one upside is that we got to see my sister-in-law and Paco's aunt. His cousin may come tomorrow.

My New Computer

2008-03-19T16:18:00.002-04:00

This is my new computer for my new job! While I am a bit nervous since I haven't worked on a Mac in while, I have been assured by many people that the transition will be easy. Even more, I have been told that I will *never* go back to using plain, old windows. I am SO excited!

Need Help Planning a Garden Party?

2008-03-19T16:07:00.002-04:00

Then click on the question to get some answers!

I Am Such a Good Mom! (No, really!)

2008-03-17T15:09:00.003-04:00

The elementary school kids had a half day today for parent-teacher conferences. So I have my three kids as well as two other girls for most of the afternoon. For lunch, we had sausage and green eggs. Aren't I clever? The kids loved it. Now they are all playing with paper dolls and some elaborate game that involves hand-drawn bedrooms and stores. At least they are all happy. I am trying not to fall asleep, as my corned beef simmers on the stove. Today, this is a happy house!

In Celebration of Easter

2008-03-16T22:51:00.002-04:00

This morning at church, Paco reminded me how funny church was last Easter. To be more specific, it was the moments before church that were funny. I thought it would be nice to give you all a laugh in preparation for Easter 2008.

So...

2008-03-12T13:43:00.003-04:00

...I am now employed! Thanks for all of the well-wishing and prayers! I am very excited and can't wait to get started.

In the meantime, I am working on a large print job for my local political friends and am getting *extremely* frustrated. The printer keeps jamming and the postcards keep ripping and there are roller marks all over the place. Why do I do this again?

My Inner Geek

2008-03-04T14:31:00.002-05:00

I just came home from a job interview. Please say a prayer for me...I really want this job! It is a great combination of writing, marketing and technical stuff - my dream come true! I am fighting the urge to email the guy right now (roughly 1 hour since the interview ended) and let him know just how badly I want him to hire me. I realize this is a bad idea, but I *really* want to.

Princess turned 8 yesterday. I have an 8 year old! Crazy. If I were feeling more motivated, I would post a picture. However, any second two kindergarteners and two second graders are going to burst throught the front door - I have no time for play!

And Yet Another

2008-02-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

Another article here!

Associated Content Article

2008-02-13T12:37:00.000-05:00

Tea Party Games

And Here It Is...

2008-01-29T18:09:00.001-05:00

Okay, so it took me a little longer than I planned to post TBell's "after" picture. But, here it is!

She is still very excited about the style. I am getting used to her with shorter hair, although I do really miss her long locks! At least they went to a good cause. (Sorry for the darkness of the photos; I am not sure what is wrong!)

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the big event in Pirate's life: he got "spenders" from Grammy! He is more excited that a person should be about suspenders, but at least he's cute enough to pull it off right now. It's only a matter of time, though, before he turns into Urkel!

PS - Please excuse the very messy floor you can see in the picture of Pirate. I am simply not a very neat person!

A Wedding Story

2008-01-16T04:17:00.000-05:00

My grandmother got married on New Years Eve. (Yes, I am aware of the many jokes this statement can generate!) I took the kids on a road trip (along with one sister and her two kids in my car) while Paco stayed at home. (He could not get the day off to go...don't get me started!) While I have proven many times that I am not a great photographer, I am very disappointed this time to not have many great pictures to post. I am putting two here, but I think my sister has some better ones on her blog.

This is the happy couple, along with most of the great grandchildren on our side of the family. The groom has a young great granddaughter and, at the time of the picture, one arriving any time.

This is TBell and my father. I just love this picture.

I have a great picture of my niece, but should probably get permission before I post it. Sadly, it is WAY too early for me to call and ask. (You may note the time this is posted...I have been up for a couple of hours and can't seem to get back to sleep. Ugh!)

Hair Today

2008-01-16T03:59:00.000-05:00

TBell had her hair cut last Saturday for Locks of Love. Her hair was down to the small of her back and is now just past her chin! Princess also had this done when she was in Kindergarten, but it was much harder for me this time. (She does look cute now, although all of you have to wait because I just realized I don't have the "after" picture yet!) However, much more importantly, TBell is very excited to have donated her hair and she also loves the cut now. She listed a few people in her class who have all had their hair cut, so it was clearly time for her to have hers done! I like the idea of donating for obvious reasons. But, this time was even more important to me because we have a very close family friend who is in a battle with cancer and I think this was a way for a very young TBell to feel like she is helping.

I suppose it isn't really nice of me to post these pictures without a final one, but at least now you'll come back for more!

'Nothing that's Necessary is Impossible'

2008-01-06T19:23:00.000-05:00

That is a quote from a book I recently finished. It kind of made me stop and realize that I had very often, as of late, been feeling sorry for myself and had been thinking that perhaps I didn't want to keep working my current schedule. Never mind that it works for our family and the kids are settled and happy. I was miserable and mean. However, after reading that sentence and thinking about it for a while, I realized that my schedule isn't impossible and shouldn't make me unhappy. It's necessary and therefore doable.

In dinner news, my sister gave me and my kids a mix to make our own hot pretzels. So tonight, we had a "ballpark meal" that consisted of hot dogs, pretzels dipped in cheese and caramel popcorn. Definitely not the healthiest meal, but it was a lot of fun and the kids had a great time. I will post ordering info for the hot pretzels as soon as I figure out what Paco did with the bag; they were GREAT! I was a little apprehensive about them, but they were really easy to make - even the kids were able to do it. And, the taste was wonderful. I highly recommend them.

Fantabulous

2007-12-27T18:59:00.000-05:00

Christmas was simply wonderful here. I would love to post some pictures of the children, but I haven't uploaded them yet. Plus, in a wonderful show of intelligence, Paco and I didn't make sure the camera was charged. So, there really aren't that many pictures anyway. Rest assured though, Pirate was THRILLED with his Darth Maul double-bladed light saber. Princess and TBEll LOVED their High School musical things as well as their other gifts. Each one got a new Webkinz, which was also very exciting. Princess did have a momentary moment of sadness when she realized that even though she told Santa every time she saw him (news to me) that she wanted clothes for her Webkinz, she didn't get them. But, I did point out that she has a birthday coming and all was well.

Possibly even more important, the girls were in the pageant at church. They did a great job, of course, and had a lot of fun. (Princess was Gabriel and TBEll as the Inkeeper.) Both sets of grandparents came and had a nice time. Right now, all three kids love going to church...I really hope I can encourage that so it continues!

Come again soon...I am actually going to post a recipe! (I got a Rachel Ray cookbook for Christmas. I modified a recipe tonight and it was GREAT!)

Kindness

2007-12-08T16:16:00.000-05:00

There have been many times that I have been lucky enough to benefit from the kindness of both friends and strangers. While I do try to contribute my share of good deeds with the world, I do not believe that I have come close to reciprocating enough. Today, I was told by a friend of mine that he has managed to get the one toy for me that Pirate has asked for this Christmas. This particular item is not made anymore and is going on eBay for around $150 to $200. (I would guess it's original price was somewhere around $25.) Paco and I have been brainstorming different ways to come up with a homemade version, all the while telling Pirate that Santa called and said that the elves were really struggling and that the stores just didn't have one. I have been sad because this is the first Christmas that Pirate really understands things (both religious and commercial) and he was just asking for a stupid toy and I couldn't do it. We say no to our kids a lot and it was killing me that I couldn't indulge him this holiday. But, it goes against every fiber in my being to spend $150 on a gift for a 4 year old. So, anyway, my friend has found one for me, through a friend of his, and they are giving it to us. I cannot tell you how thankful I am for friends like this and I really do hope that I can someday return this wonderful gesture.

Happy holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! I hope all of you can experience the magic of the season as I have!

Culinary Frustration

2007-11-20T18:50:00.001-05:00

My kids are pretty good eaters. In fact, one of my proudest accomplishments as a parent is that my kids are accustomed to eating (mostly) whatever is put in front of them for dinner. I really like the fact that I don't have to serve chicken nuggets or fish sticks in order to get them to eat. They have each been known to ask to finish the vegetables from the serving bowl at the end of dinner. Princess counts sushi as one of her all-time favorite foods. So, it is with great dismay that I announce the following: My kids hate homemade macaroni and cheese. They prefer processed cheese and noodles. It doesn't have to be powdered cheese, they will also eat processed cheese log melted over noodles (i.e. Velveeta). I haven't tried to serve them the homemade kind in a while, but felt inspired today. See, Pirate just returned from a 1 1/2 week trip to Disney World with my parents and brought Mickey shaped noodles for TBell as a gift. I thought it would be so neat to make "Mickeyroni and Cheese" as a welcome home dinner. They hated it. Where did I go wrong? I mean, if I can serve BBQ ribs and deviled eggs to my kids, why won't they eat homemade mac and cheese. It is days like this I feel like total failure! (Okay, that's a bit dramatic, but you know what I mean.)

Here is the recipe for my mac-n-cheese. For the record, Paco loved it.

Melt 2T of butter in a saucepan. Add 2 cups of milk and 2T of flour. Whisk together. Let milk bubble then thicken, maybe 2 to 3 minutes. Add 2 cups shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup shredded asiago, 1/2 cup Parmesan, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella. Melt cheese in milk mixture. Add almost-cooked (1 pound package) noodles to cheese mixture and combine. Pour noodles and cheese into a baking pan or casserole and cover with handfuls of shredded cheese as well as about 1/2 cup bread crumbs mixed with 3T olive oil. Brown top under broiler and serve. This could also be made into a meatier version by adding bacon bits or pieces of ham.

Catching Up

2007-11-04T19:33:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it is already November. Time really does fly...especially when everyone is so busy. I have posted some pictures from last month. I have been meaning to get on for quite a while but just haven't done so.

The girls each designed pumpkins after their favorite book characters and entered a contest at school. While they didn't win, I am very proud of them because they came up with their own ideas and had very little help from me. The pumpkins that did win were amazing, but certainly not done by an elementary school student.

This is TBell's pumpkin. She has always loved 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' so immediately chose that book when she found out about the contest.

Princess chose 'Swan Lake' and made a two-sided pumpkin.

Last but not least, a picture from Halloween.

Election Day is coming, which always keeps me busy. Then Pirate leaves for a 1 1/2 week trip with my parents. UGH! He just turned 4 this week and now he's heading off for a Disney vacation. My baby is leaving! Oh dear.

2007-10-09T19:31:00.000-04:00

I went to a wedding the other night as a fill-in guest. (My sister-in-law was standing up as a bridesmaid and her husband was unable to make the trip.) The night was filled with fun music from Corey Hart, Heart, Asia, Madonna and more. Well, I at least thought it was fun. Anyway, I really, really, really loved the cake. Once again, I don't think my camera phone is did any justice, but I thought you should all see it anyway.

My head is hurting way too much to say anything else. I have been sick for a few days and can't seem to kick whatever it is that I have. I saw the MD this afternoon, and he is going with a kidney infection or a kidney stone. I have had a stone before and I don't think that's what it is. But, he seemed to be leaning more toward one. At any rate, I am not really in the mood to say anything else.

"She's a very sweet and helpful girl; she just talks too much."

2007-09-18T20:05:00.000-04:00

Tbell came home from school yesterday with a note from her teacher that I needed to sign. The note said that she had gotten in trouble for talking too much and was given several warnings about it before having to take down a picture. (The kids have three small pictures of themselves up on a wall. Similar to 'three strikes and you're out,' they have chances before a more serious consequence happens.) Now, she only had to take one picture down but she also lost 5 minutes of play time. When I asked if she was sad that she had lost a picture for the day, she just shrugged and said no. Then she told me that there was better stuff in the papers underneath the teacher's note. Now, I wouldn't ordinarily call the teacher about something like this, but I happened to have another issue to bring up so I decided to try. We spoke about the other thing first and then I brought up TBell's indifference to being in trouble. Mrs. P laughed and said the quote above. I noted that TBell didn't speak for quite a while - no sounds at all. In fact, the pediatrician wanted me to have her evaluated for speech therapy but I never got around to it. Then, she turned three, and she hasn't shut up. Mrs. P said that she was the same way and that her teachers must have felt the same way. I told her that we would try to work on being quiet at home, but that TBell is either talking or asleep. Happily, she got a good worker award today and proudly told me that she did not talk too much. Too funny. (I had a very hard time keeping a straight face while discussing this with her. She really cracks me up.)

Crock Pot Happiness

2007-09-16T19:55:00.000-04:00

I made a roast in the crock pot today, with a recipe courtesy of my friend Ellen. All you do is put the roast in (mine was 4.5 pounds) and add the contents of one or two jars of peppercinis (juice and all) along with some garlic. I used one jar of sliced of peppercinis and one jar of sliced banana peppers. We sliced the meat and served it on rolls. My friend served hers on pita's with a cucumber and dill salad. Paco wouldn't eat that, so I just served mine with a side of cheesy rice. Mmmmmm! So good and easy.

I don't think the picture really does it justice, but it was taken with my cell phone and my cell phone is really a piece of crap.

WARNING: It Hurts to be Hit in the Face With a Rubber Dinosaur

2007-09-10T21:09:00.000-04:00

You may not think so, but it really does! It also hurts to be kicked in the shin by a four year old boy doing an unauthorized cartwheel. I suppose it would have hurt even if the cartwheel had been authorized, but you get the idea. Other than those two events, the class went very well. I really did enjoy myself and think I will survive the year.

My First Day

2007-09-10T08:28:00.001-04:00

Today is my first day teaching preschool. I can't decide if I am nervous. I mean, the knowledge I will be handing out isn't that difficult. But, will I have the patience for a crying three year old who misses his mommy? Or, will I deal correctly with the little boy who bites and hits his friends? I have no idea. We will all know soon, though!

Last night I realized that I am not completely in school mode yet as far as parenting goes. As I was going to bed, I saw the piles of paper I had removed from the backpacks on Friday afternoon - untouched for the weekend on the back of the computer table. It turns out that TBell needed to wear yellow today and Princess needed a form filled out. At least I noticed it last night instead of on my way to the bakery this morning at 5am. But, things would have been much less stressful had I remembered before bedtime on Sunday!

I Have No More Babies

2007-09-05T11:14:00.000-04:00

I am not one to cry. Well, at least not during crisis situations or things like that. But, all three of my kids went to school. Now I was fine when Princess and TBell got on the bus (TBell started kindergarten) and I was fine when I dropped Pirate off at school. It was when got home that it started - it was then that I realized that I have no more babies and it kind of hurt a little.

Here are pictures of the big day!

Princess is very proud of this outfit - she finds it to be very fashionable. I think she looks like she is going to school in the 80's! I remember my mother forbidding me to wear stretch pants under my skirts and shorts. I imagine she will kill me when she sees Princess get off the bus today!

This is my absolute favorite dress. I just LOVE polka dots. Isn't she too cute?

All grown up. He kept saying things today like, "Don't tickle the school boy!"

All three, smiling.

Fudge

2007-08-21T17:01:00.000-04:00

I tired to make fudge today, using an easy microwave recipe I found online. It has not set. I just let TBell, TBell's friend, and Pirate eat a "piece" with a spoon. I have put it back in the freezer to try and force it to set. It's pretty though, with marshmallows and rainbow sprinkles. Tasty and disappointing all at the same time.

Also, I spoke to Paco's grandmother, and she has agreed to can with me. In addition to what I wanted to make, she is going to teach me how to do potatoes! I am SO excited!

In other random news, we got a new bathtub today from Bathfitters. It looks very much like a hotel shower/tub now - all clean and white. However, anything is better than the stained tub we had before!

"HUGH Sale"

2007-08-20T13:04:00.001-04:00

I saw that on a sign over the weekend. Sadly, I was unable to stop and see how much a 'Hugh' would cost. Perhaps next time.

Canning and Me

2007-08-13T14:26:00.000-04:00

My sister cans a lot. In fact, she called me yesterday to tell me that she was getting together with some friends to can quite a number of things. (One of which was vodka cherries! I am *really* hoping to get a jar or two of those!) I haven't canned anything in a long time. I helped my mother with tomatoes last year, but I was only helping and ended up with just four jars. I have decided this year that I want to do tomatoes, apple butter, and hot pepper relish. Of course, there is a financial investment with the food and jars, so I need to find a way to make that happen. But, I will be so happy when it is all completed! I have to admit that I am a little nervous since I have never done it by myself. Stay tuned for updates, although the actual day probably won't be until the beginning of September.

Taking a Break from Work

2007-08-12T09:42:00.001-04:00

I didn't go to work at the bakery today. (That's a long story.) So, when I woke up today I decided that I should work on some proofreading and other projects that I have been putting off. However, after 40 minutes, I am already in need of a break! My ability to stay focused can be severely limited at times.

We went to a dinner party yesterday to which I had to bring a side dish. The other day I had watched The Food Network and decided to make this. I used apples instead of pears because that's what my local farmer's market had. It was pretty good. I should have taken a picture for you, especially since I assembled it in my never-before-used trifle dish from Pampered Chef and it looked SO pretty! The curry flavor isn't that strong, so I think most people will enjoy it. To be honest and fair, I don't know how often I will make it since the curry won't go with all foods. But, it was good enough to share!

Coffee and a Smile (and a Recipe)

2007-08-10T08:55:00.000-04:00

Ahhhhhh. I am sipping coffee and sitting at my desk while the children play happily behind me. I do love days off!

I went to our local farmer's market last weekend and bought an eggplant. I had never prepared eggplant before and was quite anxious to try something with it. Paco is pretty much a meat and potatoes guy, but was willing to try it in our quest to lose weight. (I am down 10 pounds. He has lost roughly the same.) I looked around on the internet for some good recipes and asked around, but couldn't come up with something that great. We were planning to just brush it with olive oil and season it with salt/pepper and throw it on the grill. However, I ended up looking at a recipe called 'Poor Man's Caviar' and was intrigued. I went to a friend's house on Monday and decided to make it for that gathering - it was GREAT!

Cut slits on top of the eggplant, then roast it on grill rack at 500 degrees for about 20 minutes. Take eggplant out of the oven and scoop out the flesh. In a food processor, combine eggplant, drizzle of olive oil, coarse salt, pepper, and whatever other seasonings you would like. (I used a parmesan/oregano blend from my friends pantry.) Serve with a baguette or other bread/cracker.

WARNING: The consistency looks like green baby food. It got rave reviews with my friends, though, so try it anyway!

Excitement Comes in So Many Ways

2007-07-27T17:21:00.000-04:00

First, excitement comes in the form of DVR, which Paco and I finally got this afternoon. I haven't really had time to play with it, but it is currently set to record all episodes of Friends on TBS (I still really like that show) and all episodes of Kim Possible on Disney Channel. I think I am really, really going to like it.

Second, excitement comes in the form of martini's and Chinese food and sushi with friends. I think it's going to be a good night!

Could I Have Felt Any Worse?

2007-07-25T17:53:00.001-04:00

I have a pretty high tolerance for pain. In fact, immediately following the births of each of my girls, I was thrilled at the prospect of possibly doing it again. Today, however, I was crying uncontrollably on my couch with a headache that hurt worse than most things I have ever felt. (I still remember the pain of a particular surgery I had and I do admit that this headache was not that bad; possibly close, though.) Princess was taking care of me and all three children behaved pretty well considering I was completely out of it for most of the day. I finally called my mother to bring me more medicine, which helped immensely. It sucked for her, though, because my three year old niece is staying with her for the week and had just thrown up in the car when she arrived at my house. I was barely able to help her and only had three napkins to give her. I was in so much pain that it didn't occur to me to give her rags or anything. I don't really get headaches like that and sincerely pray that it never happens again.

Dinner

2007-07-22T19:48:00.000-04:00

I made the most amazing pizza for dinner tonight. I suppose it won't sound all that extraordinary, but let me assure you that it was FAB! I used dough from the bakery - the kind that you have to let rise and then punch down and rise again. I do have a great recipe to make my own, but I chose to buy with my discount today. At $1 a bag, it's hard to resist. I brushed it with olive oil, sprinkled oregano, then spread pizza sauce. On top of the sauce, I put cut up meatballs, jalapenos, and mozzarella cheese. I really don't think that I can tell you how good it was. The kids had a plain cheese version that was also very, very good.

TBell fell off a swing after dinner and smacked her head on the very hard ground. I was worried that she may have a slight concussion, but Paco insists that she is fine. I suppose she probably is okay, but I am watching her very closely anyway.

Things We Go at the Fair Today (Old Home Days)

2007-07-12T15:03:00.000-04:00

1. 4 pieces of pizza, two orange soda's and one red Gatorade - $14
2. 1 (amazing) taco and a Coke - $6
3. 1 sword - $5
4. 1 can of silly string - $3
5. 1 purple stuffed fish, won at a game - $2
6. 1 box of snappers - $1
7. 3 all-you-can-ride bracelets - $39

A grand total of $70 worth of fun! (I am kind of hoping Paco doesn't read this.)

Well, I'll Be

2007-07-09T22:02:00.000-04:00

I had no idea that it has been over a month since my last post. Crazy. There have been many times that I have thought of things I would like to say, but then never got around to them. So, with not much written, and two of my most loyal readers not employed by a company that allows them to play on the internet all day, I am left to wonder if my blogging is coming to an end. Sigh.

Princess is at sleep away camp this week. It's actually only a few days, Sunday to Wednesday. She has been away from us before, but we can always talk on the phone. This is the first time that she has been away with no contact and it feels strange. It's not too bad, I guess, but I admit that I will be glad when she gets home.

TBell is anxiously awaiting Kindergarten. She also has her first loose tooth. (I lost my last tooth in high school, so she had better get used to the feeling of loose teeth...it's going to last a while!)

Pirate is now really Jack Sparrow. My mother bought him a pirate costume from Disney World and he basically hasn't taken it off for a couple of weeks. It's funny and annoying all at the same time.

Paco and I will be married nine years in just over a week. Just after that, we will have been together (including dating) for 13 years. I am almost too stunned to think about it.

That's the update from here. I definitely need to consider my blogging future!

Good Times

2007-06-02T09:48:00.000-04:00

I rode in with my parents, which was a little stressful. Dad was stressed, mom was tired and there was a lot of bickering and snapping. I was also bored, which didn't help. However, once we got to the church (my mother is doing a reading in the wedding) for the rehearsal, things got better. Afterward, I found out that my grandmother and her boyfriend were planning on riding with us to the dinner, so I managed to swing a ride with the bride so as not to have to deal with grumpy parents and grumpy grandparents! (I do love them, but I am here to have fun!)

The rehearsal dinner was great. It was so nice to eat and drink while other people had to watch their own children and all I had to do was have fun! (I do think that one of the groomsmen, a much younger man, was trying to pick me up. I guess I shouldn't be too excited because he has a girlfriend and two children, but still...it's nice to be wanted!) The bartender poured very liberal glasses of wine, of which I had two. My cousin bought me a shot of vodka, which sadly took me two gulps to finish since it was so large. I was never a good drinker when I was younger, and age has just made it worse. But, it was fun nonetheless. After the dinner, I met Paco at the hotel and actually slept all night and was able to wake up this morning without a care in the world! We went down to have breakfast and are thinking of walking over to the mall for a little bit just for fun. Now, don't get me wrong, I do miss my kids. But, it is so nice to not worry about anything and just hang out. The wedding isn't until 5pm, so we have all kinds of time to just have fun. I hope all of you are having a great weekend, too!

My Weekend

2007-05-31T22:48:00.000-04:00

Since our children were born, they have spent the night with grandparents if Paco and I had a wedding or party or something. Also, the girls have each gone away from us on there own for various trips or overnights. Paco and I have each taken trips individually without the children. But, never before have we both been gone at one time for any length of time...until this weekend - and I can't tell you how excited I am! Paco is away on business and I will be meeting him there tomorrow night, in a hotel room paid for by his company! Then, on Saturday, we will be going to my cousin's wedding. We will spend another night away, go to a family brunch on Sunday and then come home. I have been busy packing tonight, in the ridiculous heat, and generally stressing because I have so much to do. (Luckily, a deadline was changed so I do not need to spend the entire night compiling grants in Adobe Writer since I just got the software and am not entirely sure how to use it yet.) I am still doing laundry but have gotten a lot more done than I expected to. Wait...have I mentioned that Paco and I are going away?

Various Tidbits of Information

2007-05-27T14:10:00.000-04:00

I have no idea how so many days occur between my posts. I very often intend to write, but then get lazy or busy or something and the moments passes. However, I am currently sitting at my computer while the rest of the family is outside and I decided that it is the perfect time to write a mixed bag sort of post.

I worked at the bakery this morning and I have to say that it was my most enjoyable day there so far. Sadly, it was enjoyable because I was having completely inappropriate conversations with my coworkers, but for some reason we couldn't stop. And the conversations were funny. I think I laughed for an hour straight. Isn't it nice to do that sometimes? I don't think that the perfect environment will occur for that type of conversation to happen again (such as those two coworkers with me, no customers, strange moods, etc.) and it really shouldn't since we talked about things that would absolutely offend some people, but I kind of hope that it does happen again because it was just plain fun.

In cooking news, I found out something about crock pots. Now, it may be something that all of you know. However, I most assuredly did not and I was stunned - you do not need to add water/liquid when cooking in a crock pot. For some reason, I was sure that you did. The other day, I was looking online for a crock pot/pork tenderloin recipe because it was too hot to turn my oven on and we had no gas for the grill. I didn't feel like my normal recipe with beer, so I looked for a new way. I came across several recipes that did not involve liquid. So, I tried it just coated in a rosemary blend I have along with some pepper. IT WAS FANTASTIC! I have to say, this opens up a whole new world for me!

Travel Nightmare

2007-05-17T08:16:00.000-04:00

As you read, we are just recovering from the travel disaster which occured on Princess' way home from Disney. Now, we are dealing with another one! Paco was in Denver for business and was supposed to be home last night. After arriving in Philadelphia with enough time to make his connecting flight (they arrived at the gate with 20 minutes to spare), they were told that the flight had left early! EARLY! When does a flight ever leave early? There was a huge line of people waiting for what was *supposed* to be a full flight that had already left. USAir didn't seem to care, though. They said that the pilot was about to lose his flight time (something to do with the number of hours a pilot can fly before being grounded for rest) so the plane had to leave. Paco tried two different hotels with no luck. I think he is on his way home now. I had to call in to the bakery because I had no sitter for 5am. My sister was supposed to come over at 8 when Paco would have normally left for the office, but certainly couldn't leave her own family to come be with mine. What is really frustrating is that I am sure USAir won't do a &%*# thing about it!

Updates and More!

2007-05-13T21:42:00.000-04:00

For those of you who are interested, I am enjoying my work at the bakery. We don't do any baking at our location - it is all trucked over from another (larger) location two times a day. (Someone does come in to make sandwiches and some of the pizza we sell.) So, as an opener, I am mostly responsible for setting up the store with the yummy goods and serving the few customers who are there between 6am and 9am. (My actual shift starts at 5 - the store opens at 6.) I was told in my interview that I can eat as many doughnuts and as much pizza as I want while I am working. I told the manager that this was a terrible thing to tell me! But, in fairness, doughnuts are not really my downfall. Pizza can be bad for me, but typically not that early in the morning. I have tried some yummy desserts that I have never had before, but overall I don't think my eating is too bad considering the circumstances.

My job at the grocery store is actually over before it really got off and running. I was able to quit because a woman I work for out of my home heard that I was working two jobs and guaranteed me enough hours to be able to quit at least one. Woohoo!

We ate the friendship bread, discussed in my last post, before I could take a picture of it - TBell and Pirate LOVED it! I have some other starters, but I think I ruined them because I forgot to take care of them. So, the project may be a bust now.

Princess just arrived back from a week in Walt Disney World with my parents. (My sister and her children joined them as well.) She had a wonderful time and was full of stories today. You could really tell that she was glad to see TBell and Pirate and that they were thrilled to see her - it warmed my heart! Airtran really (*$(^*$(% up the traveling, though, with a VERY late flight home and lost luggage. It seems that every time my parents travel via Airtran, their flight home is a disaster. It is to the point now that I highly recommend that no one use them at all!

I have some great pictures to post, but I am way too lazy to upload them right now. (They are still on the camera.) I promise to take care of it soon!

Happy Mother's Day!

Tension

2007-05-03T10:40:00.000-04:00

I am very tense and tired. I don't want to be tense and tired. I have tried to will myself to be a bit happier and light of heart, but to no avail. There is a lot going on right now and I really just need to wait it all out. But, it's frustrating to do that. One major thing is a dinner which I am co-chairing - this event has caused a lot of annoyance and I will be very glad when it is over tomorrow night. However, I did get a new dress for the occasion and am excited about that.

In baking notes, I recently received a starter for 'Friendship Bread.' I LOVE this bread and haven't had it in so long. A grandmother who drops her grandson off at TBell's preschool gave it to me and I can't wait to have it. I will post a picture of it when it's baked. Does anyone want a starter bag?

Early Morning Message

2007-04-24T04:20:00.000-04:00

It's 4:20 in the morning here and already I am showered, make-uped, and ready to go! Today is my first day at a local bakery where I will be on the opening shift. The idea is that I will be home in time to spend the day with the kids but still bringing in some money. This is not the only new job I am starting right now, but the plan is to work most of what I am doing around the kids. I think it should work out pretty well, but even if it doesn't...nothing ventured, nothing gained!

Paco and I watched Heroes last night. It was okay, although certainly not as good as other episodes have been. I am actually not interested in next week's at all because it seems to be more of a 'what could be' based on the previews, but isn't actually what happens at all. What's the point? I think there are only three new episodes after that, so I hope they have some secrets up their sleeves to make watching worthwhile!

In cooking news, I now have an electric griddle. I am so excited! I have never had one before and can't wait to start cooking pancakes, grilled cheese, and other such things in abundance! While I realize that I won't be creating exotic recipes with it, my kitchen has desperately needed one for a long time and will love the new addition!

Disappointing Pork

2007-04-18T19:39:00.000-04:00

I rely pretty heavily on pork in my kitchen. While pregnant with TBell, I developed an aversion to chicken that even 5+ years later I can't seem to shake. So, we have pork whenever I am in the mood for a white meat. Tonight, I adapted a recipe that I found to include items I currently have, rather than going to the store. I dipped the pork in an egg, soy sauce and orange juice mixture, then coated each one in crushed croutons. I drizzled melted butter over the top of each and then placed them in the oven at 250 for about 20 minutes. (Note: these were extremely thin chops, if yours are thicker, you will need to cook them longer.) While they turned out nice and tender, I was disappointed that I couldn't taste either the soy sauce or the OJ. I do think I will make them again, but I will add more of those two things in an effort to bring out the flavor.

In other news, I am in the midst of planning a brunch for one organization (happening this weekend) and a dinner for another. I have an MRI tomorrow. I have countless phone calls to make and envelopes to stuff and mail. However, I am playing on the computer and listening to the Sabres game, which Paco is watching behind me. Will I ever stop procrastinating? It seems very unlikely...

Easter Fun

2007-04-09T10:03:00.001-04:00

The dress I wore to church yesterday ended up making me feel very self-conscious. I was showing more cleavage than I thought was appropriate and was constantly tugging at the neckline to make it cover more. Paco said it looked fine, although the pastor's wife questioned why I would listen to my husband about matters of my cleavage. (For the record, she also thought the dress looked fine.) Here is a conversation with my pastor before service:

Me: Are we kneeling for communion today? (Note: We normally do kneel, but occasionally we take the bread and dip it into the wine. If we dip, we stand.)

Pastor: You are.

Hysterical laughter.

Pastor: No good can come from this conversation. (exit pastor to get ready for Easter service)

My First Ever...

2007-04-04T09:16:00.000-04:00

...quiche! I don't know why I have never made one before. Paco loves them. I had a lot of eggs that I needed to use, so I decided to try it. I looked up a few recipes and then did a modified version of my own. I think my pan is a ten inch pan, but I am not sure. For the crust, I just used a box mix that you add water to and lined the bottom of the pan with it. Then I added fresh, chopped broccoli and shredded cheddar and monterey jack cheese. I put enough in that the veggie and cheese were completely covering the bottom of the pan. Then, in a blender, I mixed 9 eggs, salt, pepper, 2 cups of half and half and about three tablespoons of flour. After it was all well mixed, I poured it in the pan. I baked it at 375 for about 50 or 55 minutes - just until the entire top was starting to brown. It was so good! And, for the record, it is vegetarian!

My Latest Addiction

2007-03-28T20:22:00.000-04:00

I have SO many things I should be doing right now. Paco is at a hockey game, so I even have the house to myself while I get things done. The kids are asleep, all is quiet. However, instead of doing the many things I really should be doing, I am watching an eBay auction. A while ago, I tried to sell something (I can't remember what), but it didn't work. Last week I saw that eBay was having a special for people who had never sold anything before - 3 free listings! So, I decided to try it. We listed an old game system that belongs to Paco and a set of glasses that belong to me. Well, within a half an hour someone had bid on the glasses. I didn't think anyone would bid on the game system, but just this afternoon someone actually did. The game system auction ends in less than an hour and all I can do is refresh my screen to see if anyone else is going to come in at the end. I am obsessed. I have actual work to do, with a deadline of tonight, and I am still just watching the silly auction. I am kind of surprised that I am taking time away to write this post. But, I feel like writing about it may help me deal with my behavior! Ah, the dangers of the internet...

Did You Feel the Earth Shake?

2007-03-15T15:50:00.000-04:00

I cleaned my house. I mean, I really cleaned it! I am sure that there are those - like my mother - who would find more that needs to be done. But, I really did it! I mopped, I scrubbed my stove...I even vacuumed! In fact, I even look like I cleaned my house - there are spots all over my shirt from the cleaner I used on the stove.

Below are some pictures taken of the girls last weekend. I know that I mentioned sharing birthday pictures. But, I just love these - taken last Sunday before the American Girl Fashion Show. My mother took both Princess and Tbell along with their cousin M.

Stress

2007-03-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

1. TBell has lice. I believe we got all of the adult lice but have to do the egg/nit treatment for several days. We also have to do daily bed stripping/sheet washing until this is all over. It is very annoying.
2. Our half-bath sink is clogged because one of the kids stuck toilet paper in it. I can't seem to fix it. I have been plunging and plunging to no avail.
3. Pirate just stuck a gem in his ear. I couldn't get it out so I decided to call the MD. Pirate freaked when he heard me say something about the MD so I tried one more time with a toothpick and managed to get it out.

This is all with me recently being diagnosed with a heart condition that causes my heart to suddenly beat out of control and is thought to cause sudden death in athletes - I am supposed to avoid stress and avoid being startled. (Please, don't honk or say 'boo' to me as I am so fragile!) Luckily I am not an athlete and very rarely do anything that raises my heartbeat!

Okay, I think that is it. As long as my children behave for the rest of the day, I should be okay. Stay tuned for birthday pictures!

Happy 100!

2007-03-06T09:10:00.000-05:00

Folks, this is my 100th post. I can hardly contain my excitement! I am sure that you are all equally as thrilled that I continue to amaze with my wit and recipes.

Okay, maybe there was a little sarcasm there. Anyway...I have to make cupcakes for TBell to take to school tomorrow. She picked a red velvet cake mix and chocolate frosting. I really didn't think anything of it, but my mother was HORRIFIED and said that red velvet cake should only have cream cheese frosting. Now, my mother is the type of woman who would know these things. She has made countless wedding, birthday, and other occasion cakes. So one would think I would listen to her. However, this is the same woman who REFUSED to make a chocolate wedding cake for me because she said that not everyone likes chocolate cake. She didn't listen when I pointed out that not everyone likes yellow (or other) cakes - including me! She doesn't like chocolate, so no one else can. So, do I make red velvet cupcakes with chocolate frosting and assume that she just doesn't like chocolate frosting? Or, is she actually right? Should red velvet cake only be served with cream cheese frosting? I don't want to traumatize the preschool!

Sorry for the Delay

2007-03-01T08:37:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have been told that my absence has been felt across the internet world. Well, that may be an exaggeration. But, at least two people have mentioned that they miss me. Things have been crazy here and my computer time has not been fantastic. I am here now, though, and will try to make the most of it!

First, there has not been much cooking my kitchen lately. I am not especially proud of this and am hoping to fix that soon. I did make a warm dip the other day for a party that turned out really good. It wasn't terribly difficult or anything, but I got a lot of compliments. I spread 8 oz. of cream cheese on the bottom of a small-ish, round baking dish. I then added about 1/2 jar of spicy black bean dip. (I used an organic version for this, but you could use any black bean dip you would like.) Next I added some pre-cooked spicy chicken. Lastly, I covered the whole thing with grated cheddar cheese. I heated it through and served. For something so simple, I received a lot of compliments. And for the vegetarians out there, you can obviously not add the chicken.

In other news, Princess is turning 7 on Saturday. We are going to Red Lobster for dinner because she is in desperate need of crab legs. I realize that Red Lobster isn't the best place in the eyes of many people. But, remember that we live in Western New York and the seafood is not plentiful here! On Sunday, she had TBell are having a joint party. (TBell turns 5 next Thursday.) We will be playing Radio Disney and making glittery faces and dancing. The party favors are CDs of the girls favorite music. I will be sure to take pictures and include some here.

Not Really in the Spirit

2007-02-13T16:33:00.000-05:00

I am trying to help the girls with their Valentine's and am not feeling all that joyful and lovey about it. I mean, TBell had to make 20 and Princess had to make 40 (some for Brownies and some for her class.) They used my stamping paper, which I cut into the annoyingly small pieces that Valentine's usually are, and their own washable stamp pads. I let them use any of my heart-related stamps they wanted to use. I spent $8.48 candy for them to take into their friends. I have to tell you, though, I am not feeling the love. I am feeling very annoyed and stressed and just can't wait for the whole thing to be over with!

(I assure you that I am not conveying my feelings about this to the kids...that's what all of you are for!)

Toys and Frustration

2007-02-05T21:33:00.000-05:00

I intended for this post to have pictures of my kids playing with my Lite Brite (which is something like the link here, except with a light bulb and plastic pegs) and my Weeble Wobble Disney Castle. However, my stupid digital camera is not working, so I can't upload the pictures. I cannot tell you how annoyed I am. I really did want all of you to see how cute they were playing with my toys. In fact, these were two of my favorite things to play with. I think the next favorite would have been, in no particular order, my wooden blocks, my smurfs and my Benji board game. Those were the days...

In other news, Paco and I bought a season pass for Heroes today so we could just watch the episodes anytime we want. Also, we are taking a class at our church on Monday nights, so now we don't have to worry about taping it. (No, we don't have DVR...don't get me started!) I would really like to be able to buy The Class and How I Met Your Mother, also, but they are not available. I do like Studio 60, but we are home in time to watch that. There is a thing that iTunes is coming out with that you hook up to your TV that allows you to watch the shows/movies you have on iTunes on your television. I am very interested in hearing how it works and what people think.

Well, that's all folks. If I can get my stupid camera working, I will upload those pictures.

We May Think a Bit Too Much

2007-01-29T15:08:00.000-05:00

Pirate's birthday is October. As it happens, so is mine. When I was younger, my parents gave no thought as to when I would attend kindergarten; it was assumed that I would start the September before I turned 5. Nowadays, there is a school of thought that it would better to hold a child back who is not 5 within the first few weeks of school. This is even more true, people say, when the child in question is a boy. Paco and I (okay, probably more me) have been struggling with a timetable for Pirate. He will be 4 this year, so should probably start preschool in the fall. (This is another issue, for another time...if you don't send your kids to preschool these days, they are behind before they even start.) The question is, should he be in a 3 year old program or a 4 year old program? Because he is a boy, there is the matter of maturity to take into consideration. There is a concern that he just wouldn't be mature enough to be with other 4 year olds. However, will he be too advanced for the 3 year old class? Then, what about the next year? Should he go to kindergarten the year he is eligible? I have gotten more opinions about this than I care to share and was starting to lose my mind.

Anyway, the preschool that we utilize took Pirate in for a trial class with the current 3 year olds; these are the kids that will be in his class next year if he were to go into the 4 year old class. He was a little hesitant when I dropped him off, but finally did walk away from me and went to play. They did not call for the entire 2 1/2 hours of the class and he was so excited about everything when I went to pick him up. The teachers both said that he should absolutely go into the 4 year old class. (I think a lot of this is due to his many years of therapy - his arts and crafts skills are exceptional ;) )

So after a lot of pointless thinking, Pirate will be entering the 4 year old preschool program this September. TBell will be in kindergarten. Princess will be in 2nd grade. I will be old.

The entire reason I wrote this post was to show this picture - here is Pirate before leaving for his trial class.

Yum!

2007-01-29T15:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, TBell wanted some muffins. I didn't have a mix or anything and wasn't sure that I wanted to make any from scratch. I remembered that I had some Jiffy baking mix so I went online to see if they had a muffin recipe. It turns out that they have several different muffin mixes on their site and I was able to come up with a way to make chocolate chip muffins. Anyway, a few days later I decided that I wanted cinnamon rolls. So, I went back to Jiffy and they had a recipe for those, too. Now, if you make them from scratch, there is a lot of waiting and rising and punching. If you make them with Jiffy, they are way better (and cheaper) than the canned ones and aren't nearly as difficult as the cookbook variety.

He Did It!

2007-01-22T07:40:00.000-05:00

In April-ish of 1998, I sat down to watch the NFL Draft with Paco. Paco watches the entire thing each year and for some reason I joined him that year. As it happens, that day was the start of my love affair with Peyton Manning. I watched the human interest story about him while waiting for the draft to start and decided he was the Best Football Player Ever. I have followed his career - Paco always updates me with the Colts goings-on. I wouldn't say that I am a huge Colts fan, as I don't watch every game. But, I do like them and always want them to win. During the current play-off season, the three main men in my life (Paco, his father and my father)all said that there was no way Peyton was going to do it. The sports announcers said that he had to make it to the Superbowl in order to continue his amazing career. I remained faithful, though, even when my precious team was losing 21-3 last night to the New England Patriots. And....they won! I think I am actually going to watch the Superbowl this year instead of just eating the good food. I think the game last night could have gotten even a non-sports fan excited...what a great comeback! I am just tickled that Indianapolis won and went to bed with a *huge* grin on my face.

Woohoo!

Another One

2007-01-20T18:21:00.000-05:00

Here is another article. Enjoy!

Is it Too Much to Ask for a Snow Day?

2007-01-19T08:33:00.000-05:00

There was a lot of promise last night - lake effect snow warnings and and words of caution regarding the morning commute. Upon looking out my window at 6:30 this morning, it was discovered that there was only enough snow here to cause some annoyance. It was enough snow to blow up into my pajama bottoms when I took Princess out to the bus. It is enough snow that I have to start my car early and allow several minutes to brush it off so Meghan can get to school. It is enough snow that the girls have to wear boots and take extra shoes to school. It is enough snow to make me incredibly crabby. Was it too much to ask for it to be enough snow for school to be canceled?

Update

2007-01-17T10:22:00.000-05:00

As I figured, I posted too soon. Paco is fine, although I have not spoken with him directly. I spoke to someone who spoke to someone - I promise that is more reliable than it sounds! Anyway, I can rest easy knowing that Paco is traveling again and is not deemed to be a terrorist. (All of this did cause me to wonder if our lawyer, who handles traffic issues for us, is well-versed in the laws surrounding terrorism allegations. I am glad that we don't need to find out!)

Frustration

2007-01-17T08:35:00.001-05:00

I am writing this entry a little prematurely and may end up regretting it. But, I decided that my internet friends were the people to turn to...

Paco travels a lot for work. A few years ago - I can't remember exactly when - he was given a slightly hard time at the airline counter because his name is apparently one that terrorists use quite a bit. In the end, they apologized for the inconvenience and sent him on his way. Today, he left our house at 4 in the morning for a business trip. When I woke up at 7 and turned my phone on, there was a text message that said he was going to need me to fax his birth certificate to a yet to be named location. I have not heard from him again. Now, he was flying to Chicago and it is possible that they let him on the flight and are just waiting for him to land so they can continue. But, that doesn't seem likely, does it? UGH! I am more frustrated at the process than the actual problem. I suppose it is fine that they research people that they *think* may be a problem. But, now I am sitting at home, sad and worried while trying to act like nothing is wrong while I get our children ready for school. I have no idea where he is or what is going on or when I am going to hear from him. *sigh*

Frustration

2007-01-17T08:35:00.000-05:00

Refreshed?

2007-01-10T14:32:00.000-05:00

I have been on a vacation from writing for a while. The problem is, however, that I don't feel all that refreshed. In fact, every time I have thought of posting an entry here or submitting a new article, I have become slightly annoyed. Becoming annoyed does not entertain my readers, though, or pay the bills (or buy me Tim Horton’s coffee!) like my articles do. So, I am back. Perhaps with some *forced* writing under my belt I will get back into the swing of things.

I had intended to write about our Christmas celebration but that seems so far away now. The kids did have a good time and seemed happy with the gifts they received. I gave Paco a fake Tag watch that I purchased on a trip to NYC and he gave me this iPAQ. All in all it was a nice holiday and I am sad that life has to get back to normal now!

Because I am always getting myself into more and more, I have decided to accept the presidency of one organization I belong to as well as join a new board within the structure of our town government. I am exited about the board position as it seems to really have an actual impact on policy and budget in the particular department it is part of. It does add more meetings to my month, but I think that it will be time well spent.

Anyway, that is the news here. I will try to write more so that I will again be entertaining you with the details of my life!

Accidental Fudge

2006-12-20T08:59:00.000-05:00

I have been a mad baker this Christmas Season. My [non-blogging] sister and I have spent many of the recent days making multiple batches of cookies to be given to various recipients. After she left yesterday, I made a batch of chocolate thumbprints because she didn't want any. Now, the finished product is fine, although I don't think I would make them again. But, because I lack some major housekeeping skills, I left the unused chocolate mixture out on the kitchen table last night when I was done. This morning, the stuff in the bowl resembled fudge. I stared it for a few minutes, then offered it to Paco. He took one spoonful and said, "Why did you make so little of it? Can you make more today?" I tasted it and it does indeed taste like fudge. This has to be the easiest fudge I have ever made. I think it may be easier than the spoon fudge I made in 7th grade in Home-Ec. I am going to make a much larger batch of it today to be sure that it works and will then post the recipe here for all of you to use. Mmmmm - I can't wait!

2006-12-14T13:59:00.000-05:00

I didn't realize that I have not posted in so long. It really seems like just a day or two ago that I posted my rambling thoughts. Hmmm, I guess not! Anywho, I don't necessarily have too much to say right now. We are spending a lot of time working on the first verse of Joy to the World (the girls are singing it in the Christmas Pagent at church) and getting ready, then recovering from, various holiday parties.

Here are a couple of pictures from Mimi's house. Mimi is a [80 year old] friend of mine who wanted to do something special for the kids. So, she had them over for a lot of frosting, cupcakes, candy and reading. It was very nice, if a little messy and sugar-high-ish.

That's about it, folks. I will check in soon to offer more mind-numbing excitement!

I Don't Even Know What to Say

2006-12-06T21:49:00.000-05:00

This story cracks me up. As a (so I've been told) strict parent, I sympathize with the mother. I mean, children need to face consequences for their actions. I am really more amused that the story was picked up by the Associated Press. Will they find out that I made Princess stand at the dinner table one night while eating because she couldn't stop jumping around in her chair? In just a day or two, someone in Little Rock, Arkansas may be fuming at the injustice of my six year old having to stand while eating spaghetti.

I think I need to go to bed.

More and More Writing

2006-12-05T21:01:00.000-05:00

I don't write as often as I should. When I started spending the majority of time at home with my kids instead of in an office, the plan was for me to write in the evening after the kids are in bed. I believe this lasted for about one week. Then, for some strange reason, Paco and I became way too involved in nightly television. For those of you who have known me a while, you will think this is odd behavior for me. Until this year, I have very rarely been "addicted" to a TV series. Not to say that I don't appreciate pop culture or anything...I just had other things that I enjoyed doing more than watching a show. So far, in this television year, we spend 3 1/2 hours on Monday night watching TV; 1 hour on Tuesday; 2 hours on Thursday; 1 hour on Friday. THE MADNESS MUST END! I need to pay more attention to my writing (which I was hoping to improve!) and less attention to sitting on my couch.

To that end, please visit my new blog at http://buffalo.yourhub.com/~michelejohnson. This does not mark the end of the blog which you are currently reading, however. My new blog is dedicated to events or happenings that will directly interest people living in my town. My recipes for Life will still contain whatever content I feel like writing about!

PS - If I start having symptoms of withdrawal, please help me through my difficult time of television-separation!

General Happiness

2006-12-03T08:16:00.000-05:00

I have been intending to update for a few days now and keep getting sidetracked. As I write, the family is getting ready for Sunday school and church - it is the Season of Advent! - and I am squeezing in a few minutes of computer time. There are several things that I wanted to write about and, if I remember correctly, none of them are really related. (Not surprising, I know.) So, for this post, I am going to pass on the recipe that my sister posted a few days ago:

Crazy Easy Beer Bread

3 cups Self -rising flour
3 tablespoons white sugar
1 bottle (12 oz) beer

Mix the ingredients together and pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

I tend to add things to this bread, like spices or cheese or bacon, to add to the flavor. You can experiment with different types of beer, also, to change the flavor a bit. This bread is somewhat dense and goes really well with soup. I recently served cheesy potato soup for dinner with thick slices of beer bread...mmmmmmm!

Random

2006-11-27T08:38:00.000-05:00

I only have a little bit of time, so I thought I would just mention a few small things.

1. The Pinot Noir I bought for Thanksgiving, on recommendation from my friend at the liquor store, was horrible. I had spent more on the bottle than I normally would, but figured that it was for a holiday and that my father and I would be sharing it so I wanted it to be special. Blech!

2. We had a wonderful holiday. My sister came to visit just prior to the holiday and we had a great time visiting. (There was a even a formal portrait taken of all seven grandchildren with their my parents...so cool!) Then, we traveled to my aunt's mountain house in PA for a family-filled weekend of food and fun. Woohoo!

3. I am almost done Christmas shopping. I am not sure why I was able to finish so soon this year as I didn't really start much before the middle of November. But, it's nice to know that there isn't too much pressure now...I can just enjoy!

How was your Thanksgiving?

Wine and Turkey

2006-11-20T06:37:00.000-05:00

For those of you out there who are wondering what wine to serve on Thanksgiving, I thought I would give you my picks for a great pairing. Sometimes, a wine can make the meal - wouldn't you like to be the hero who brings the best bottle?

The absolute best wine to serve with turkey, in my opinion, is a Gewurztraminer. This is a slightly sweeter wine (which I would ordinarily never choose) that has a hint of effervescence (or bubbly). It most resembles a Riesling but has a great flavor of its own. Paired with turkey, this wine tastes incredible and is a must at your table.

If you prefer red wine, then go with a Pinot Noir. This red is mellow, so its flavor won't get in the way of the great food you are eating. Pinot Noir is also nice by itself, so you can sip it longer after you have left the table.

Happy Turkey everyone!

Thanksgiving Side of Fabulous

2006-11-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

While I haven't made this dish in a very long time, I thought I would share it with you in case you would like to add it to your Thanksgiving table. (I realize that I am again not sharing a vegetarian recipe and I am very sorry, A. I *am* trying!)

Chop and cook 1 large onion in 1T of butter. (You can use cooking spray, also.) When the onion is about halfway done cooking, add 1 package of chopped bacon. (It's much easier to chop frozen bacon so you may want to stick it in the freezer prior to making this.) Completely cook the bacon and onion mixture. Then, add two jars of completely drained red cabbage and mix/heat completely.

This recipe is very easy, although it does take a little bit longer than you would think to cook through; don't be discouraged if it's not done in 10 minutes. The completed dish looks very pretty on a table and tastes INCREDIBLE!

Insomnia

2006-11-18T04:01:00.000-05:00

It is 4:00 in the morning. I have been up since 2:30. AHHHHHHHHHHH! I have been productive, however. So far I have finished my Sunday School lesson and almost finished my Christmas shopping for the kids. I love the internet! I only need two other items and those can be easily purchased at a store at some point. Actually, I am almost completely done with everyone - I am amazed! I only have a few more gifts to buy and then the wrapping can begin!

Princess had her cheer leading extravaganza last night. She was very cute. (We used a new camcorder to record the event and take pictures. I will try to hook it up soon so I can post one or two here.) She also had a complete meltdown afterwards which she attributed to being sad that the season is over. I think she is a bit too sensitive and really have no idea what I am going to do with her when she is a teenager. Honestly, I am often surprised when I realize that she isn't a teenager yet based on her behavior.

My sister is coming this weekend and is staying with me for the first part of her visit. My house is a mess and is in no state to have 4 more people (my sister, her two kids and her au pair) in it. I have been so busy, though, that I just haven't had time to worry about it. I also have so much to do in the roughly 12 hours I have until she gets here that I have no idea how I am going to get it all done. I should probably be doing dishes or something now, but I am afraid I will make too much noise and I would really prefer that the kids sleep. Even more frightening is that we are going away for Thanksgiving and I am not at all ready for that. I am normally so excited for these kinds of trips. This year, I am lucky if I remember that we are going half of the time!

What are you doing for Thanksgiving?

Holiday Yums

2006-11-14T08:12:00.000-05:00

Here is a quick recipe that is really delicious and easy to make.

Crush 5 candy canes into small pieces; set aside. Melt two bags of white chocolate chips in the microwave or double boiler. When melted, stir in 2 tsp. of mint extract and all of the candy cane pieces. Combine. Spread mixture onto baking sheet lined with wax paper and freeze. The candy is done when it is completely hard. After it is set, break into pieces. This looks really pretty in cellophane bags tied with pretty ribbon and an ornament.

I will try to add more holiday recipes as they come to me. Let me know if anyone tries this one - I know that Paco really likes it and am interested to know who else does!

Election Hangover

2006-11-10T09:11:00.000-05:00

Well, election season is officially over in WNY. I am exhausted from the whole experience. There was a lot of work to do to this year, which is scary because I know that next year is going to be even worse on a town-level.

I want to share an interesting tidbit that came to my attention last night while attending a meeting. Now, I am not necessarily interested in discussing the politics surrounding this event, just the media portrayal associated with it. Congressman Reynold's was given a hard time, to say the least, about his involvement in the Mark Foley scandal involving a young man. There was a media circus, really, with accusations, press conferences and articles. In WNY, the press wanted Reynolds to be a villain. The interesting part is that in Florida, where Foley is from, Reynolds is a hero. Apparently, the media there credits Reynolds with saving Florida from Foley. What is my point, you ask? It is this: aside from my good friend who works in television, I *HATE* the media.

Enough politics. Coming soon: holiday celebrations!

Tagged...I'm It

2006-10-31T17:45:00.000-05:00

My sister tagged me; here I go!

a) Four job I have had in my life:

- Copier Salesperson
- Event Planner
- Proofreader
- Relevancy Administrator (prompting my father to exclaim, "Is that anything like a Knowledge Manager?")

b) Four movies I would watch over and over:

- Father of the Bride (with Steve Martin)
- The Princess Diaries (1 and 2)
- High School Musical (that's for you, Colleen)
- Clue

c) Four places I have lived:

- Buffalo, NY
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Sorry, folks...that's it!

d) Four TV shows I love to watch:

- Heroes
- How I Met Your Mother
- Studio 60
- Sports Night (I know, it's not on anymore. But, I LOVED it!)

e) Four places I have visited:

- Grand Cayman
- Jamaica
- Bermuda
- Mexico

f) Four websites I visit daily:

- weather.com
- wgrz.com (which is stupid, because I am often annoyed at them)
- google.com
- My bank

g) Four of my favorite foods:

- Melted cheese on bread (40 seconds in the microwave)
- Anything Mexican
- Sushi
- Seafood

h) Four places I would like to be right now:

- Disney World
- That 5 star hotel in Dallas
- Camping in South Gibson, PA
- Getting a massage

i) Four bloggers I'd like to tag:

- Law Fairy, because I would like to know more about her

- Thought Runner because he can make me laugh

- Longnoodle because I would like to meet her someday

- Pastor Steve, because he is a cool guy