A few reasons I am NOT and never will be a biker chick, motorcycle mama, etc.
I bathe regularly and thoroughly
No tattoes
No piercings (not even my ears, folks!!)
I have genuine concern about and take active measures to avoid helmet hair
I really swear VERY little
I have NEVER whipped off my shirt in a public place
I don't hang out at biker bars
I own NOTHING with H.D. emblazoned upon it
When I get off of my bike and remove my leathers, I am dressed in perfectly respectable, modest, feminine attire (in other words, I consider leather strictly as a type of protective gear, not a fashion statement)
One of the pockets in my leather jacket is reserved for lipstick and a compact
I would never subject Mr.Darcy to the humiliation of attaching ape hangers or tassles to his person
A few Reasons I love to ride my bike
The initial sitting on and starting up of the bike...mmmm.
The scents you encounter while driving and the ability to enjoy them i.e. woodsmoke, freshly cut hay, etc.
The roar of the engine and the force of the pull when changing gears
The indescribable feeling of freedom that comes when you're tooling along a scenic mountain byway
Curves. Just...curves.
Stopping in at some remote little country store to fill up with gas and grab a Coke.
Passing another rider going the opposite direction and giving them the two finger "hi" sign that acknowledges the universal brotherhood of bike riders.
Spending $5.00 on gas and driving 125 miles before needing a refill:0)
Monday, November 20, 2006
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Halloween II
I almost forgot!!!! Elvis and Hilda in their Halloween outfits.
The fair princess and the noble wizard!
I know, I know, you don't have to say it. I need a life.*SIGH*
:0D
The fair princess and the noble wizard!
I know, I know, you don't have to say it. I need a life.*SIGH*
:0D
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Halloween (Road Trip!)
When it was decided that all of the kids would be trick or treating together in Em's neighborhood, this year, two things popped into my mind. 1). It will be great to see the niece and all the nephews dressed up together and having a blast 2).ROAD TRIP on Mr.Darcy!!!
Unfortunately, on Sunday evening I came down with a fever/sore throat/aches and pains thingy. By Tuesday, I decided the trip was still well worth the effort, despite still being a little unwell.
So I packed up the saddlebags, strapped on my camera bag/backpack and hit the open road. It was a three hour trip and I enjoyed every. last. mile of it. :0)
The kids were all be'costumed and ready to roll when I pulled up to the house. It was so cute to see that rag-tag little group of pirates and superheroes all pouring out of Em's front door to greet me and Mr. Darcy.
After a bowl of delicious homemade chili, we all piled into Em's van and headed downtown. The kids were an absolute joy to see, as they bounded up to each new doorstep, said their "trick or treat" and "thank you" and then scurried off to the next house, all bright-eyed and full of excitement.
By the end of the trek, the kids could barely carry their bulging candy sacks. I was absolutley exhausted, myself!
The Whole Crew
Utterly gratuitous cute baby picture!
Mam-maw watched Tiny E while we all went out. She was laughing at all of his cute little noises!
Q and Jack
What a cute litte superhero sidekick!
A shy Pirate? No pictures, please, just throw candy!!
Scariest moment of the night: Jack creeps up to the ghoul holding the candy-filled bowl as Quentin looks on in fear and awe. Jack took so long slowly eeeeeeasing his hand out to take some candy, that a line of trick or treaters was forming behind him and the ghoul finally sat up and said in a completely non-ghoulish voice "Just take some candy, son, it's okay". LOL!!!
Jack displaying his best Ninja moves!
Robin relaxes in the wagon after a hard night of candy-gathering
When I pointed the camera at him, he immediately turned his little choclatey face to the side and gave his cape a very impressive flourish!
When the trick or treating was finished, I drove Mr.Darcy to Mom and Dad's and collapsed into bed.
The next day, I took Jack, Savannah and Quentin on a walk in the woods and down to the creek. We scouted for deer sign, chased spring frogs and collected cool rocks. A call from my cell phone brought Pap-paw down with the Gator to give us a ride back up to the house.
Later that night, me and Melissa gussied up a bit and met Janelle at our favorite little French restaurant, downtown. We enjoyed a lovely evening of conversation, laughter and delicious food and wine. The three of us have started discussing a possible trip abroad for next year (excited squeal!!!).
The drive back home to the mountains, the next day, was great up until the last 20 miles. The temperature began to drop quite dramatically and I was an ice cube by the time I made it home.
But, hey, what an adventure! I loved it!
Unfortunately, on Sunday evening I came down with a fever/sore throat/aches and pains thingy. By Tuesday, I decided the trip was still well worth the effort, despite still being a little unwell.
So I packed up the saddlebags, strapped on my camera bag/backpack and hit the open road. It was a three hour trip and I enjoyed every. last. mile of it. :0)
The kids were all be'costumed and ready to roll when I pulled up to the house. It was so cute to see that rag-tag little group of pirates and superheroes all pouring out of Em's front door to greet me and Mr. Darcy.
After a bowl of delicious homemade chili, we all piled into Em's van and headed downtown. The kids were an absolute joy to see, as they bounded up to each new doorstep, said their "trick or treat" and "thank you" and then scurried off to the next house, all bright-eyed and full of excitement.
By the end of the trek, the kids could barely carry their bulging candy sacks. I was absolutley exhausted, myself!
The Whole Crew
Utterly gratuitous cute baby picture!
Mam-maw watched Tiny E while we all went out. She was laughing at all of his cute little noises!
Q and Jack
What a cute litte superhero sidekick!
A shy Pirate? No pictures, please, just throw candy!!
Scariest moment of the night: Jack creeps up to the ghoul holding the candy-filled bowl as Quentin looks on in fear and awe. Jack took so long slowly eeeeeeasing his hand out to take some candy, that a line of trick or treaters was forming behind him and the ghoul finally sat up and said in a completely non-ghoulish voice "Just take some candy, son, it's okay". LOL!!!
Jack displaying his best Ninja moves!
Robin relaxes in the wagon after a hard night of candy-gathering
When I pointed the camera at him, he immediately turned his little choclatey face to the side and gave his cape a very impressive flourish!
When the trick or treating was finished, I drove Mr.Darcy to Mom and Dad's and collapsed into bed.
The next day, I took Jack, Savannah and Quentin on a walk in the woods and down to the creek. We scouted for deer sign, chased spring frogs and collected cool rocks. A call from my cell phone brought Pap-paw down with the Gator to give us a ride back up to the house.
Later that night, me and Melissa gussied up a bit and met Janelle at our favorite little French restaurant, downtown. We enjoyed a lovely evening of conversation, laughter and delicious food and wine. The three of us have started discussing a possible trip abroad for next year (excited squeal!!!).
The drive back home to the mountains, the next day, was great up until the last 20 miles. The temperature began to drop quite dramatically and I was an ice cube by the time I made it home.
But, hey, what an adventure! I loved it!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
MY ONE TRUE LOVE
Ladies and gentleman, please allow me to introduce...
Mr.Darcy
He's a '99 Honda Shadow 750 and he's the handsomest thing I've ever laid eyes upon. I met him last week (through the classifieds) and the moment we met, well...I just knew. He was the one for me. Incredibly good-looking. Large and powerful, but smooth. Utterly reliable. And just so. much. FUN!!!! What's not to love??
Together, we've toured the Parkway and enjoyed the incredible display of fall colors. We've enjoyed the winding curves and hills of backroads through the mountains. We've braved interstate travel, cold, wind and even a bit of rain together. He has lent a spark of joy to the running of tedious, routine errands.
I couldn't be happier with my new love. We just get along so well.
On sunny days he sits proudly in my driveway, for all to admire.
On cold or rainy nights, he sleeps in my living room (no garage here). Mr.Darcy is a perfect gentleman, of course (**BLUSH**)
I think his name speaks volumes, no?
:0)
I will have better pictures of him,later. I just couldn't wait any longer to introduce him!!!!
And to respond to Dy's remarks over at Melissa's blog, the camera gear fits nicely into the saddlebags and in my backpack.:0) I don't think I'll be roaring up to any Garden club meetings (tempting as that might be, LOL!!), but I may actually ride it to outdoor portait sessions with select clients--those whom I know it won't frighten, anyway!!
Actually, I'm thiinking of doing a really neat self-portrait of me and Mr Darcy and then using it as a marketing tool at local bike shops. People drop big bucks on their rides.What better way to forever capture and glorify their investment than with a really awesome portrait?? I'm thinking fine art with just a touch of bad-a**!! LOL!
Mr.Darcy
He's a '99 Honda Shadow 750 and he's the handsomest thing I've ever laid eyes upon. I met him last week (through the classifieds) and the moment we met, well...I just knew. He was the one for me. Incredibly good-looking. Large and powerful, but smooth. Utterly reliable. And just so. much. FUN!!!! What's not to love??
Together, we've toured the Parkway and enjoyed the incredible display of fall colors. We've enjoyed the winding curves and hills of backroads through the mountains. We've braved interstate travel, cold, wind and even a bit of rain together. He has lent a spark of joy to the running of tedious, routine errands.
I couldn't be happier with my new love. We just get along so well.
On sunny days he sits proudly in my driveway, for all to admire.
On cold or rainy nights, he sleeps in my living room (no garage here). Mr.Darcy is a perfect gentleman, of course (**BLUSH**)
I think his name speaks volumes, no?
:0)
I will have better pictures of him,later. I just couldn't wait any longer to introduce him!!!!
And to respond to Dy's remarks over at Melissa's blog, the camera gear fits nicely into the saddlebags and in my backpack.:0) I don't think I'll be roaring up to any Garden club meetings (tempting as that might be, LOL!!), but I may actually ride it to outdoor portait sessions with select clients--those whom I know it won't frighten, anyway!!
Actually, I'm thiinking of doing a really neat self-portrait of me and Mr Darcy and then using it as a marketing tool at local bike shops. People drop big bucks on their rides.What better way to forever capture and glorify their investment than with a really awesome portrait?? I'm thinking fine art with just a touch of bad-a**!! LOL!
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Emerald Isle '06
I just got back from the beach. I'm sitting here thinking about how very blessed that my life is. From the cool, green mountains to the warm, sunny beach and back again. God is so good to me.
The beach was, of course, just great. The weather was completely and absolutely PERFECT. The ocean was calm, until the final day of vacation, when the waves picked up and gave me and Race and the kids an awesome day of bodysurfing and boogie-boarding. I'm still sporting the bruises, quite proudly!!
I kayaked for the first time. That was tremendously enjoyable. Melissa and Race rented the two-seaters and Race kindly took me out and showed me the ropes. DEFINITELY seeing a kayak in my future (waaaaay distant future---got a motorcycle to buy!).
I worked really hard on my tan (it's a tough job, but somebody's got to do it!) and have managed to carry home a lovely golden glow. It'll be gone by Wednesday, but hey, I'll enjoy this fine 4 days of healthy color!
There was also shell-hunting, frisbee tossing and dolphin chasing. Those darn dolphins. They always stay JUST far enough off-shore that you're not quite comfortable swimming out there. Next year, I'm bringing fins and a snorkel, man. What can I say? I think I've got a little of that Steve Irwin spirit!!
The first night I arrived, a huge bowl of Dad's famous beach bisque was awaiting me. This creamy, seafood-filled chowder has become a staple of our family's annual beach trips.
It is worth driving to N.C. for that alone!
Tuesday night, Dad prepared a most succulent rib roast with au jus, and whole green beans sauteed in lemon butter. For a starch, I fixed twice-baked potatoes with fresh oregano.It was all SO good!
I harvested a huge bunch of my basil plants before I left home and on Wed night, made a batch of fresh pesto. A trip to the seafood market for some fresh crabmeat and shrimp, a little linguine, toss it all together with a homemade Parmesan cream sauce---you get the picture.
Friday night's entree was the biggest tray of buffalo wings you've ever seen, coupled with three different homemade sauces for your dipping pleasure. Alongside this, a giant pile of FRESH fried oysters and cocktail sauce.
All of the above entrees were, of course, accompanied by an array of adult beverages including hard cider, microbrews, wines and an assortment of hard liquors and mixers. Happiness runs.
I haven't even mentioned the beachfront MANSION in which we stayed. No expense was spared when they put the place together. Flatscreen TV's in every room, the whole place wired with speakers for the stereo, the whole downstairs is a home theatre, an in-ground pool lit up with fibre-optics, hot tub, absolutely AWESOME contemporary decor and lighting.
I give ALL credit to the bookers of this marvelous abode ( I believe it was Mom and Melissa).They researched and found a luxury house newly placed on the rental market and jumped on it while the price was right!
I have pictures of the house and all of it's occupants, but at the moment, Blogger is being rather uncooperative in allowing me to post them. I'll do a separate Beach Pictures post another time.
The annual Beach Treasure Hunt was a success. Clues were hidden, to be found and deciphered by eager little hands and minds. Austin helped me again this year, by posing as the EvilSpirit Who Guards the Treasure and chasing the younger ones all around before being struck 3 times with the Sword of Truth (wielded by the fearless Jackson, of course) and being forced to reveal the location of the Treasure (ye ol' big sack o' candy!). A is such a good sport and always ready to lend a helping hand. Jack and Savannah are an excellent team of slueths with S providing the calm reasoning skills to carefully decipher the hidden notes and J the energy and bravado to carry the instructions thru. I love seeing them all in action!
This was Q's first time participating. He seemed to be torn between fear of the dark beach and mysterious notes and what he KNEW to be the truth (it's all just Aunt Thomasina, not REALLY an old Sea Hag!!) and eventually joined me in helping to plan adventures for the other two young'uns. He's just so SMART. He actually helped me come up with some ideas. Those big blue eyes and that little sense of humor just kill me. He's such a special little fella. And of course he got a share of the booty, at the end of the hunt.
Walker has become just the cutest little thing you ever did see--adorably chunky in that 3YO way that just makes you want to scoop him up and squeeze him!! Add his chatty, fun-loving little personality to that package and MAN what a dollbaby!
Tiny E has grown so much since I saw him just a couple of weeks ago. He can already lift up his little head and he looks all around and is amazingly alert. He actually rolled over for the first time while we were on vacation!!! He's such a cute baby, too. I can't wait to see how that little personality develops.
The final night of vacation, I spent by myself in the hot tub with a glass of Chardonnay, a nice cigar and a book. You could hear the ocean in the background and the half moon was reflecting off of the water. I got out of the hot tub and sat on the observation deck and watched the ocean for a while and prayed. Then I wrapped up in a blanket and sat by the pool and read for a while. It was incredibly relaxing and pleasant. I am so thankful for the whole vacation
Check this place out!!!
Mom and Walker
In the Hot Tub
Dad Overseeing the Prime Rib prep.
Miss Savannah, of the Golden-Sunlit Tresses
A Group of Weary but Happy Beach Combers
Austin tossing the Ball with his Uncle Todd
In the Theatre Room
Jack
Jack and Race heading out to Sea
Mom's Big Kayak Adventure
How we talked her into it, I'll never know!!! But look how much fun she had!! :0D
Wish Em and Todd and the boys were in this one, too!!!
FYI, Race's face is blocked out of these images for reasons of security, NOT because of any personal grudge! LOL!!! ;0)
The beach was, of course, just great. The weather was completely and absolutely PERFECT. The ocean was calm, until the final day of vacation, when the waves picked up and gave me and Race and the kids an awesome day of bodysurfing and boogie-boarding. I'm still sporting the bruises, quite proudly!!
I kayaked for the first time. That was tremendously enjoyable. Melissa and Race rented the two-seaters and Race kindly took me out and showed me the ropes. DEFINITELY seeing a kayak in my future (waaaaay distant future---got a motorcycle to buy!).
I worked really hard on my tan (it's a tough job, but somebody's got to do it!) and have managed to carry home a lovely golden glow. It'll be gone by Wednesday, but hey, I'll enjoy this fine 4 days of healthy color!
There was also shell-hunting, frisbee tossing and dolphin chasing. Those darn dolphins. They always stay JUST far enough off-shore that you're not quite comfortable swimming out there. Next year, I'm bringing fins and a snorkel, man. What can I say? I think I've got a little of that Steve Irwin spirit!!
The first night I arrived, a huge bowl of Dad's famous beach bisque was awaiting me. This creamy, seafood-filled chowder has become a staple of our family's annual beach trips.
It is worth driving to N.C. for that alone!
Tuesday night, Dad prepared a most succulent rib roast with au jus, and whole green beans sauteed in lemon butter. For a starch, I fixed twice-baked potatoes with fresh oregano.It was all SO good!
I harvested a huge bunch of my basil plants before I left home and on Wed night, made a batch of fresh pesto. A trip to the seafood market for some fresh crabmeat and shrimp, a little linguine, toss it all together with a homemade Parmesan cream sauce---you get the picture.
Friday night's entree was the biggest tray of buffalo wings you've ever seen, coupled with three different homemade sauces for your dipping pleasure. Alongside this, a giant pile of FRESH fried oysters and cocktail sauce.
All of the above entrees were, of course, accompanied by an array of adult beverages including hard cider, microbrews, wines and an assortment of hard liquors and mixers. Happiness runs.
I haven't even mentioned the beachfront MANSION in which we stayed. No expense was spared when they put the place together. Flatscreen TV's in every room, the whole place wired with speakers for the stereo, the whole downstairs is a home theatre, an in-ground pool lit up with fibre-optics, hot tub, absolutely AWESOME contemporary decor and lighting.
I give ALL credit to the bookers of this marvelous abode ( I believe it was Mom and Melissa).They researched and found a luxury house newly placed on the rental market and jumped on it while the price was right!
I have pictures of the house and all of it's occupants, but at the moment, Blogger is being rather uncooperative in allowing me to post them. I'll do a separate Beach Pictures post another time.
The annual Beach Treasure Hunt was a success. Clues were hidden, to be found and deciphered by eager little hands and minds. Austin helped me again this year, by posing as the EvilSpirit Who Guards the Treasure and chasing the younger ones all around before being struck 3 times with the Sword of Truth (wielded by the fearless Jackson, of course) and being forced to reveal the location of the Treasure (ye ol' big sack o' candy!). A is such a good sport and always ready to lend a helping hand. Jack and Savannah are an excellent team of slueths with S providing the calm reasoning skills to carefully decipher the hidden notes and J the energy and bravado to carry the instructions thru. I love seeing them all in action!
This was Q's first time participating. He seemed to be torn between fear of the dark beach and mysterious notes and what he KNEW to be the truth (it's all just Aunt Thomasina, not REALLY an old Sea Hag!!) and eventually joined me in helping to plan adventures for the other two young'uns. He's just so SMART. He actually helped me come up with some ideas. Those big blue eyes and that little sense of humor just kill me. He's such a special little fella. And of course he got a share of the booty, at the end of the hunt.
Walker has become just the cutest little thing you ever did see--adorably chunky in that 3YO way that just makes you want to scoop him up and squeeze him!! Add his chatty, fun-loving little personality to that package and MAN what a dollbaby!
Tiny E has grown so much since I saw him just a couple of weeks ago. He can already lift up his little head and he looks all around and is amazingly alert. He actually rolled over for the first time while we were on vacation!!! He's such a cute baby, too. I can't wait to see how that little personality develops.
The final night of vacation, I spent by myself in the hot tub with a glass of Chardonnay, a nice cigar and a book. You could hear the ocean in the background and the half moon was reflecting off of the water. I got out of the hot tub and sat on the observation deck and watched the ocean for a while and prayed. Then I wrapped up in a blanket and sat by the pool and read for a while. It was incredibly relaxing and pleasant. I am so thankful for the whole vacation
Check this place out!!!
Mom and Walker
In the Hot Tub
Dad Overseeing the Prime Rib prep.
Miss Savannah, of the Golden-Sunlit Tresses
A Group of Weary but Happy Beach Combers
Austin tossing the Ball with his Uncle Todd
In the Theatre Room
Jack
Jack and Race heading out to Sea
Mom's Big Kayak Adventure
How we talked her into it, I'll never know!!! But look how much fun she had!! :0D
Wish Em and Todd and the boys were in this one, too!!!
FYI, Race's face is blocked out of these images for reasons of security, NOT because of any personal grudge! LOL!!! ;0)
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Motorcycles and Art
I am one DMV photo away from being a licensed Mototrcycle operator in the state of VA. I took the 3 day safety course offered by the comm college and passed with flying colors. In fact, if I may toot my own horn a bit (hey, it IS my blog!), one of the instructors
(a motorcycle cop in Roanoke) told me that I was one of the best driver's he had ever seen come through the course and THE best female driver. He said I was better than the chicks he went through the police academy with! WOOHOO!!
The school was a blast. I came home sunburned and exhausted each day, after spending 5 to 6 hours on a bike completing slow speed maneuvers and learning all sorts of safety tips. When the weekend was over, me and 5 of my classmates went out for a celebratory steak dinner. I really enjoyed myself and I think I made a couple of new business contacts, and potentially a new friend.
Today, I started shopping for a bike. I went to the two local dealerships and sat on several machines and talked at length to the sales guys about what I was looking for. Everyone was helpful and informative and no one was pushy---aggressive sales tactics REALLY turn me off.
If all goes well (fingers still crossed!!), I will be purchasing a bike in October. And I cannot WAIT!!!!!!!!!!
After spending the weekend tied up in the bike class, I have plenty of work to catch up on. Reprints and scheduled sessions, a-plenty. And, of course, my big art show is coming up on Sunday and I'm working feverishly to finish the 20 framed pieces that I will need.
Honestly, I'm pretty nervous about the show. I lay awake at night and wonder if my work is going to be good enough to impress the upper crusty folks who have been invited to view it. It's one thing to create custom artistic images for specific clients. It's quite another to have images that I've created, based strictly on my own "eye" and personal sense of creativity, tossed out there for the general public to critique. I suppose I need to just be grateful for the opportunity to display and use it as an opportunity to learn.
And despite my nerves, I really am looking forward to it. Heck, the gourmet food and live music is enough to make it worth my while! :0)
The morning after the show, I'm headed to the beach for our annual family vacation. I am looking SOOO forward to it!!! Lying on the beach, swimming in the ocean, playing with the kids---just relaxing with the fam! Also, I plan to harvest the rest of my basil plants and make the biggest batch of fresh Pesto you've ever seen to take with me. I'm thinking, fresh seafood, maybe a little pasta, toss in the pesto and a few adult beverages...yeh,baby!!!
I've been too busy (read tired and lazy ) to have lost any more weight, but I'm a bit more toned and therefore slightly less terrified by the prospect of swimsuit shopping. I've also been going to the tanning booth and that has DEFINITELY paid off!! What is it about a good tan that makes you look (and feel, somehow) SO much more attractive?? It's like magic, man!
However, whether I will brave the two-piece or not remains to be seen.
On a completely different note: Welcome to the world little Everett!!!!!!!!!!
He is an adorable little critter and a very welcome addition to my list of loved ones!!
Well, it's 12:25 in the AM and I still have a bit of work to do before I can hit the sack.
G'night, all!
(a motorcycle cop in Roanoke) told me that I was one of the best driver's he had ever seen come through the course and THE best female driver. He said I was better than the chicks he went through the police academy with! WOOHOO!!
The school was a blast. I came home sunburned and exhausted each day, after spending 5 to 6 hours on a bike completing slow speed maneuvers and learning all sorts of safety tips. When the weekend was over, me and 5 of my classmates went out for a celebratory steak dinner. I really enjoyed myself and I think I made a couple of new business contacts, and potentially a new friend.
Today, I started shopping for a bike. I went to the two local dealerships and sat on several machines and talked at length to the sales guys about what I was looking for. Everyone was helpful and informative and no one was pushy---aggressive sales tactics REALLY turn me off.
If all goes well (fingers still crossed!!), I will be purchasing a bike in October. And I cannot WAIT!!!!!!!!!!
After spending the weekend tied up in the bike class, I have plenty of work to catch up on. Reprints and scheduled sessions, a-plenty. And, of course, my big art show is coming up on Sunday and I'm working feverishly to finish the 20 framed pieces that I will need.
Honestly, I'm pretty nervous about the show. I lay awake at night and wonder if my work is going to be good enough to impress the upper crusty folks who have been invited to view it. It's one thing to create custom artistic images for specific clients. It's quite another to have images that I've created, based strictly on my own "eye" and personal sense of creativity, tossed out there for the general public to critique. I suppose I need to just be grateful for the opportunity to display and use it as an opportunity to learn.
And despite my nerves, I really am looking forward to it. Heck, the gourmet food and live music is enough to make it worth my while! :0)
The morning after the show, I'm headed to the beach for our annual family vacation. I am looking SOOO forward to it!!! Lying on the beach, swimming in the ocean, playing with the kids---just relaxing with the fam! Also, I plan to harvest the rest of my basil plants and make the biggest batch of fresh Pesto you've ever seen to take with me. I'm thinking, fresh seafood, maybe a little pasta, toss in the pesto and a few adult beverages...yeh,baby!!!
I've been too busy (read tired and lazy ) to have lost any more weight, but I'm a bit more toned and therefore slightly less terrified by the prospect of swimsuit shopping. I've also been going to the tanning booth and that has DEFINITELY paid off!! What is it about a good tan that makes you look (and feel, somehow) SO much more attractive?? It's like magic, man!
However, whether I will brave the two-piece or not remains to be seen.
On a completely different note: Welcome to the world little Everett!!!!!!!!!!
He is an adorable little critter and a very welcome addition to my list of loved ones!!
Well, it's 12:25 in the AM and I still have a bit of work to do before I can hit the sack.
G'night, all!
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Sarcasm
| You Have Your Sarcastic Moments |
 |
How Sarcastic Are You?
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Get Your Motor Runnin'...
I just returned home from a lovely evening at Melissa's house. She had set out an enticing spread of various cheeses (including drunken goat cheese--if you haven't tried this, go out and get some. Right now. Seriously.), stuffed grape leaves and sushi. Add a little Chilean red to the setting and...VOILA! Dee-lish! For dessert there was rasberry sorbet and chilled Gevurstraminer.
We talked and ate and sipped and laughed. Near the end of the evening, Jackson entertained us by sitting in on our conversation and giving his opinion quite freely concerning my dating life. I mentioned that I was seeing a fellow who was tall and rode motorcycles. Jack immediatley decided that this was a relationship that I should pursue, because then he would get motorcycle rides AND the ability to reach things without a stool! That kid is just priceless!!
Speaking of motorcycles. You're not going to believe this, because I almost can't believe it myself. I am the proud owner of a Motorcycle Learner's Permit! I have to resist the urge to whip it out and flash to complete strangers. I just feel so cool.
I'll be taking the first available communtiy college motorcycle safety course available. I'm pretty excited about the whole thing.
Other exciting news includes the receiving of an invitation to display my work at an art show sponsored by the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) in September. The invitation came from a member of my garden club who enjoyed the presentation that I did for the club in June. This is a big deal for me. It's been a goal of mine, for sometime, to do a gallery display of my fine art pieces. This is an excellent first step towards that. It's going to take some effort to pull it all together, but it will be so rewarding to see it all on display.
Well, I'm headed off to bed now. Busy day tomorrow.
G'night all!
We talked and ate and sipped and laughed. Near the end of the evening, Jackson entertained us by sitting in on our conversation and giving his opinion quite freely concerning my dating life. I mentioned that I was seeing a fellow who was tall and rode motorcycles. Jack immediatley decided that this was a relationship that I should pursue, because then he would get motorcycle rides AND the ability to reach things without a stool! That kid is just priceless!!
Speaking of motorcycles. You're not going to believe this, because I almost can't believe it myself. I am the proud owner of a Motorcycle Learner's Permit! I have to resist the urge to whip it out and flash to complete strangers. I just feel so cool.
I'll be taking the first available communtiy college motorcycle safety course available. I'm pretty excited about the whole thing.
Other exciting news includes the receiving of an invitation to display my work at an art show sponsored by the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) in September. The invitation came from a member of my garden club who enjoyed the presentation that I did for the club in June. This is a big deal for me. It's been a goal of mine, for sometime, to do a gallery display of my fine art pieces. This is an excellent first step towards that. It's going to take some effort to pull it all together, but it will be so rewarding to see it all on display.
Well, I'm headed off to bed now. Busy day tomorrow.
G'night all!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
On First Dates
Every date is an interview. You are, at the same time, the interviewer and the interviewee. You must ask all the right questions, without appearing to really care too deeply what the reply might be--it's all just very casual, you know (inside your head you are feverishly taking notes and judging). You must answer all of his questions succinctly, without appearing to be TOO nervous--you know, so he doesn't realize you're lying (just kidding about the lying, heh-heh). You must answer his questions as honestly, yet, as non-threateningly as possible. I hate confrontation. On a first date? It's just not worth it. You can tell pretty quickly whether there'll be a second date in the works or not. I'd rather try to enjoy my meal and then go home and seethe about what he said later.
If he's handsome, the whole process is much more difficult. There's this little part of you that's thinking "Don't ask him THAT!! Don't answer that HONESTLY!! You'll never get a second date that way!! Just sit here, sip your wine, and try to look pretty---just try to look PRETTY, you fool!" That little voice must be silenced and quickly. Gotta stay focused!! Keep him talking on intelligent and potentially controversial subject matter. Things that will push my buttons, if he disagrees with me--politics, religion, the proper cooking/serving temperature of beef, etc. Do NOT let his hotness distract you!!
On the first date, every word that comes out of your mouth and his, every gesture, every expression. It's all being sifted and weighed. Your outfit, makeup, hair, vehicle, firmness of handshake, freshness of breath...all being judged. Talk about pressure.
However.
A date anytime I want to go out. A nice meal and a nice adult beverage. The possibility, the hope that this might be a potential friend or even a potential mate that I'm meeting tonight. Those things keep me motivated.
If he's handsome, the whole process is much more difficult. There's this little part of you that's thinking "Don't ask him THAT!! Don't answer that HONESTLY!! You'll never get a second date that way!! Just sit here, sip your wine, and try to look pretty---just try to look PRETTY, you fool!" That little voice must be silenced and quickly. Gotta stay focused!! Keep him talking on intelligent and potentially controversial subject matter. Things that will push my buttons, if he disagrees with me--politics, religion, the proper cooking/serving temperature of beef, etc. Do NOT let his hotness distract you!!
On the first date, every word that comes out of your mouth and his, every gesture, every expression. It's all being sifted and weighed. Your outfit, makeup, hair, vehicle, firmness of handshake, freshness of breath...all being judged. Talk about pressure.
However.
A date anytime I want to go out. A nice meal and a nice adult beverage. The possibility, the hope that this might be a potential friend or even a potential mate that I'm meeting tonight. Those things keep me motivated.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
What's been up
I've had two modems fried by lightning, but am very pleased to report that I am back up and running on a SURGE PROTECTED phone line, now.
It's been a good summer, so far. Lots of work coming my way and plenty of social activities to fill in the gaps (I broke things off with the Lawman a couple months ago--he just wasn't all he was cracked up to be, I'm afraid. *SIGH*) Back to online dating. Lots of dates with lots of men. Nothing even approaching a relationship.
Some good dates, some--not so much.
A few examples of the not so much:
*the guy whose posted picture was obviously taken 10 years and 40lbs ago...I didn't even RECOGNIZE him when I pulled up to the restaurant! We shook hands and I watched, dismayed, as he waddled into the restaurant in front of me.
*The fellow who sounded pleasant on the phone but whose dinner conversation consisted of detailed retellings of how he had "gone off on" and "cussed out" his son's baseball coaches at various different Little League games. Ummm, yikes!
*The Younger Man I accepted a dinner invitation from who thought it was cool to tell me all about his My Space profile and his love of horror flicks and rap music. It was like being on a date with your irritating kid brother!
*I have enjoyed some pleasant evenings out, too. Exquisite meals, nice wine and intelligent conversations. These were mostly older men, Dr's and such. Nice gentlemen.
Camping with the kids at Mom&Dad's, down by the pond was a blast! We took a midnight paddle around the pond, through the mist and were rewarded with the gruesome sight of a HUGE watersnake trying to swallow a HUGE bullfrog. Upon the children's urgent request, I paddled closer to the shore and smacked the snake on the head with the oar (by the light of a VERY shaky flashlight, held by Jackson) causing him to release his victim and both creatures swam away into the night. Very cool. The only thing that would've been cooler is if Austin had been able to join us (baseball obligations, of course!). He'll be there next time, though.:0)
The following night, Q camped out with us--his very first time sleeping in a tent. He was a real trooper!!! Remarkably fearless--actually fearless to the point that I was having to watch him or he'd just wander right off into the night chasing fireflies and such! :0) We all had a great time. At one point, in the late hours of the night sitting around the fire, Q entertained us all with dramatic, firelit poses representing different countries around the world. A sort of dramatic interpretation. VERY cute!
Q awoke once during the night to rearrange his sleeping bag and just then a really loud and creepy bird made this goshawful screeching-croaking noise as it flew low over our tent. The other kids were awake now, too. There was dead silence in the tent for a few seconds and then Q's very small and curiously toneless voice
"Um.What was that?"
"Just a crane... a little water bird" I replied as cheerfully as is possible at 2AM with a tent full of creeped-out kids.
Thankfully, Q just took me at my word and snuggled back down into his sleeping bag. All was quiet for a few minutes and I thought everyone was asleep. And then Jack's groggy little voice
"That...was the scariest sound I've...EVER...heard"
And then they were all back asleep. Except, me of course who really wasn't 100% convinced about my own water bird story. (shrug)
It was a great time.:0) Here's a few pics:
the boys peeking out of the tent
a sampling of Q's fireside dramatic interpretation--he is one neato kid!
the ride back to civilization the next morning, i.e up the hill to Mam-ma&Pa-paw's
Tuckered-out bunch of young adventurers!!
Father's Day was celebrated at the Beach house with all of the fam. Steamed crabs, ribeye's on the grill, kids all running around and happy. Later Melissa and I enjoyed apple matini's and chips and salsa and hilarious conversation. A GREAT day!!
Alrighty, I'll end this with two prayer requests; one unspoken and one very important one for the health of a friend.
Good night, all! :0)
It's been a good summer, so far. Lots of work coming my way and plenty of social activities to fill in the gaps (I broke things off with the Lawman a couple months ago--he just wasn't all he was cracked up to be, I'm afraid. *SIGH*) Back to online dating. Lots of dates with lots of men. Nothing even approaching a relationship.
Some good dates, some--not so much.
A few examples of the not so much:
*the guy whose posted picture was obviously taken 10 years and 40lbs ago...I didn't even RECOGNIZE him when I pulled up to the restaurant! We shook hands and I watched, dismayed, as he waddled into the restaurant in front of me.
*The fellow who sounded pleasant on the phone but whose dinner conversation consisted of detailed retellings of how he had "gone off on" and "cussed out" his son's baseball coaches at various different Little League games. Ummm, yikes!
*The Younger Man I accepted a dinner invitation from who thought it was cool to tell me all about his My Space profile and his love of horror flicks and rap music. It was like being on a date with your irritating kid brother!
*I have enjoyed some pleasant evenings out, too. Exquisite meals, nice wine and intelligent conversations. These were mostly older men, Dr's and such. Nice gentlemen.
Camping with the kids at Mom&Dad's, down by the pond was a blast! We took a midnight paddle around the pond, through the mist and were rewarded with the gruesome sight of a HUGE watersnake trying to swallow a HUGE bullfrog. Upon the children's urgent request, I paddled closer to the shore and smacked the snake on the head with the oar (by the light of a VERY shaky flashlight, held by Jackson) causing him to release his victim and both creatures swam away into the night. Very cool. The only thing that would've been cooler is if Austin had been able to join us (baseball obligations, of course!). He'll be there next time, though.:0)
The following night, Q camped out with us--his very first time sleeping in a tent. He was a real trooper!!! Remarkably fearless--actually fearless to the point that I was having to watch him or he'd just wander right off into the night chasing fireflies and such! :0) We all had a great time. At one point, in the late hours of the night sitting around the fire, Q entertained us all with dramatic, firelit poses representing different countries around the world. A sort of dramatic interpretation. VERY cute!
Q awoke once during the night to rearrange his sleeping bag and just then a really loud and creepy bird made this goshawful screeching-croaking noise as it flew low over our tent. The other kids were awake now, too. There was dead silence in the tent for a few seconds and then Q's very small and curiously toneless voice
"Um.What was that?"
"Just a crane... a little water bird" I replied as cheerfully as is possible at 2AM with a tent full of creeped-out kids.
Thankfully, Q just took me at my word and snuggled back down into his sleeping bag. All was quiet for a few minutes and I thought everyone was asleep. And then Jack's groggy little voice
"That...was the scariest sound I've...EVER...heard"
And then they were all back asleep. Except, me of course who really wasn't 100% convinced about my own water bird story. (shrug)
It was a great time.:0) Here's a few pics:
the boys peeking out of the tent
a sampling of Q's fireside dramatic interpretation--he is one neato kid!
the ride back to civilization the next morning, i.e up the hill to Mam-ma&Pa-paw's
Tuckered-out bunch of young adventurers!!
Father's Day was celebrated at the Beach house with all of the fam. Steamed crabs, ribeye's on the grill, kids all running around and happy. Later Melissa and I enjoyed apple matini's and chips and salsa and hilarious conversation. A GREAT day!!
Alrighty, I'll end this with two prayer requests; one unspoken and one very important one for the health of a friend.
Good night, all! :0)
Friday, June 16, 2006
Time has been flying by since my last post. It's been a busy and productive few weeks.
My newest wedding assistant is GREAT! He's 17yo,very responsible and intelligent and has a natural eye for capturing good images. He wants to major in photojournalism, so the situation benefits us both---he gets experience and I get reliable help. Huge blessing, there! The new equipment is working out great, too.
My veggie garden is really flourishing. I was very concerned about the deer and rabbit infestation in the area, but I think the dogs' presence has kept them at bay, so far.
Funny story!! I took the dogs for our evening walk in the field and came upon several deer munching on Farmer Sammy's corn. I let the dogs off of their leashes to give chase. Elvis, as is his custom, runs his quarry to the edge of the woods and then marks his territory and trots back happily to my side. Hilda tears across the field, full steam ahead (as is her custom) yelping excitedly. She's very quick and was right on the heels of a big doe as they both plunged into the woods. A couple of seconds go by and there's a scuffling sound coming from the woods. Suddenly, out bursts Hilda from the treeline, running as fast as her legs will carry her, ears laid back, eyes huge, tail between her legs and right behind her is the big doe, actually CHASING her back into the field!!!! I couldn't believe my eyes!! Dog and deer are headed on a beeline for me until Elvis caught sight of the doe and charged towards her. The deer, of course, fled back into the woods and the dogs bounded back to me. I thought I was going to wet myself from laughter. That is just not something you see everyday!! If I'd had a video camera I'd have a sure winner for AFV's $10,000 prize.
My 34th birthday has come and gone. Quite frankly, I feel old. However, the day itself was nice, if busy. I got to see Austin play ball and received several nice well-wishing phone calls and e-mails. A beautiful bouquet of flowers, a homemade b-day card and prime quality beef, all delivered to my doorstep.
About the beef. Two boxes of excellent burgers and a box of lobster stuffed filets. Did I mention that it's PRIME beef? I am SO excited about that. I can't decide whether to just dig in or save them for special occasions. What a lovely dilemma to have, eh? ;0)
The trim is down on my wood floors and they look great. One of my clients actually did it for me while his wife perused their newly created wedding album.Worked out GREAT!!
Alright, that's just all I have time for. I have more stuff to write about, but I'll have to catch up later.
Thanks for the b-day wish, Bridget!!!! And thanks for the compliment on my new sidebar photo, Dy!! :0)
My newest wedding assistant is GREAT! He's 17yo,very responsible and intelligent and has a natural eye for capturing good images. He wants to major in photojournalism, so the situation benefits us both---he gets experience and I get reliable help. Huge blessing, there! The new equipment is working out great, too.
My veggie garden is really flourishing. I was very concerned about the deer and rabbit infestation in the area, but I think the dogs' presence has kept them at bay, so far.
Funny story!! I took the dogs for our evening walk in the field and came upon several deer munching on Farmer Sammy's corn. I let the dogs off of their leashes to give chase. Elvis, as is his custom, runs his quarry to the edge of the woods and then marks his territory and trots back happily to my side. Hilda tears across the field, full steam ahead (as is her custom) yelping excitedly. She's very quick and was right on the heels of a big doe as they both plunged into the woods. A couple of seconds go by and there's a scuffling sound coming from the woods. Suddenly, out bursts Hilda from the treeline, running as fast as her legs will carry her, ears laid back, eyes huge, tail between her legs and right behind her is the big doe, actually CHASING her back into the field!!!! I couldn't believe my eyes!! Dog and deer are headed on a beeline for me until Elvis caught sight of the doe and charged towards her. The deer, of course, fled back into the woods and the dogs bounded back to me. I thought I was going to wet myself from laughter. That is just not something you see everyday!! If I'd had a video camera I'd have a sure winner for AFV's $10,000 prize.
My 34th birthday has come and gone. Quite frankly, I feel old. However, the day itself was nice, if busy. I got to see Austin play ball and received several nice well-wishing phone calls and e-mails. A beautiful bouquet of flowers, a homemade b-day card and prime quality beef, all delivered to my doorstep.
About the beef. Two boxes of excellent burgers and a box of lobster stuffed filets. Did I mention that it's PRIME beef? I am SO excited about that. I can't decide whether to just dig in or save them for special occasions. What a lovely dilemma to have, eh? ;0)
The trim is down on my wood floors and they look great. One of my clients actually did it for me while his wife perused their newly created wedding album.Worked out GREAT!!
Alright, that's just all I have time for. I have more stuff to write about, but I'll have to catch up later.
Thanks for the b-day wish, Bridget!!!! And thanks for the compliment on my new sidebar photo, Dy!! :0)
Thursday, June 01, 2006
One of Those Days
I'm trying not to complain. I'm trying to see the humor in it. Hence this post.
I awoke this morning to find that what was supposed to be the FINAL coat of polyurethane that I had slaved over the night before did NOT look good. It was too shiny, full of lint and still tacky. That was incredibly frustrating, because I had no choice but to go ahead and walk on it and let the dogs tramp over it to get outside. So, footprints galore! I also had a consultation this afternoon, meaning I had to drag all of my furniture back into the living room from the various locations where it had been stuffed,wedged and/or precariously balanced in the office, kitchen and bedroom (for the ump-teenth time). So, drag marks galore! And there's really no need to mention the dog hair, is there? You all know it's there.
The kid down the road who was supposed to cut the grass for me on Sunday is STILL a no-show. I called today and his mother informed me that he was at a ballgame with his girlfriend. Well, good. I'm SO glad he's out having such a lovely time with his little Miss Thang. In the meantime, my yard is starting to look like the serengeti. I swear, I think I saw a lion in there the other day. I don't know, maybe it was just the heat. Or Hilda.
Speaking of heat, today was HOT and humid. I left my purse, filled with all of my makeup in the car and returned to find--well you can guess. It was a big mess. Word to the wise, here: strawberry lip gloss will, in fact, reach a completely liquid state and form an impenetrable and unremovable glaze on the bottom of ones purse, if it is heated to a high enough temperature. Who knew?
I put the dogs out for their early afternoon airing and came back to find that Hilda had disappeared. My hollering until hoarse did not succeed in calling her back.
I tried to place a supply order and was startled to find out that my bank account was overdrawn. Knowing this had to be a mistake, I quickly checked my account online. Turns out an album company had mistakenly withdrawn a LARGE sum of money out of the account WITHOUT my having ever made a purchase.
After shooting off an irate email to the offending album company demanding a refund, I grabbed the nearest wedding deposit check and sped off to the bank to deposit it. The lady at the bank, informed me that because the name was partially scribbled out, she couldn't accept the check. Even though it's clearly initialed and everything's in the same handwriting and the same ink and it's a check drawn from an account in your OWN bank??? Nope. So sorry. You'll just have to get another check. I just drove away. I was so furious I was ready to cry. Why didn't I notice I was in the Newbie-teller line?? The other bank ladies are super nice and know me by name and would never ever send me packing over a misspelled word that was scribbled and initialed, anyway, for garsh sakes!!!
It has been my observation that bank tellers come in only two varieties: Supernice-no-problem-have-a-nice-day-oldtimers and Screw-you-those-are-the-rules-newcomers. When does the one evolve into the other? How long a process is that? Why are there no links between the two in the fossil record?
The couple who's afternoon appointment was the cause of my dragging all of my furniture back across the new floor(gouging it all. to. PIECES), called at the last minute to reschedule for another day--for the third time. Ahhhhhlllrighty, then.
And that was my day. Cause I'm done now. I'm sitting in front of the computer with a glass of week-old wine (who knew it kept that long?Huh.) and everything is quiet. Hilda eventually returned, all panting and exhausted and quite remarkably dung-free. The album company has agreed to refund the money back to my account, immediately. I'm contemplating calling up other kids on my road and offering them an extra couple of bucks to cut my lawn tomorrow. My makeup has congealed back into usable, though misshapen, forms. The nice bride who's scribbled-on check was deemed undepositable by the powers that be (damn them) has agreed to write me a new one. So, other than a wee little bit of residual bitterness about the picky teller and the gouged-up floor....I'm good. Life is good.
My folks are coming to stay the night with me Friday. They're coming into town to see Jack's baseball game and Savannah's ballet performance. I really wanted the floors to be done and the yard to look neat. I wanted to possibly cook something and have a bottle of their favorite wine chilled and waiting for them. It would appear that none of those things might now happen. The floor'll look crappy, the yard'll look sloppy and I'll be too freakin' poor to buy wine and victuals (depending on how fast that album co. actually refunds their ill-gotten gains!). But, it's okay. It's just wood and grass and alcohol--just things. I'll be spending time with my folks and be seeing the kids enjoying and excelling in their chosen activities. "No success in life can compensate for failure at home"(another one of my pithy little bulletin board quotes). "Failure" would be me making myself and those around me miserable because things didn't go my way,instead of just letting go and appreciating the time we have together as family members. So the heck with the lawn and the floors--they'll hold. :0)
I awoke this morning to find that what was supposed to be the FINAL coat of polyurethane that I had slaved over the night before did NOT look good. It was too shiny, full of lint and still tacky. That was incredibly frustrating, because I had no choice but to go ahead and walk on it and let the dogs tramp over it to get outside. So, footprints galore! I also had a consultation this afternoon, meaning I had to drag all of my furniture back into the living room from the various locations where it had been stuffed,wedged and/or precariously balanced in the office, kitchen and bedroom (for the ump-teenth time). So, drag marks galore! And there's really no need to mention the dog hair, is there? You all know it's there.
The kid down the road who was supposed to cut the grass for me on Sunday is STILL a no-show. I called today and his mother informed me that he was at a ballgame with his girlfriend. Well, good. I'm SO glad he's out having such a lovely time with his little Miss Thang. In the meantime, my yard is starting to look like the serengeti. I swear, I think I saw a lion in there the other day. I don't know, maybe it was just the heat. Or Hilda.
Speaking of heat, today was HOT and humid. I left my purse, filled with all of my makeup in the car and returned to find--well you can guess. It was a big mess. Word to the wise, here: strawberry lip gloss will, in fact, reach a completely liquid state and form an impenetrable and unremovable glaze on the bottom of ones purse, if it is heated to a high enough temperature. Who knew?
I put the dogs out for their early afternoon airing and came back to find that Hilda had disappeared. My hollering until hoarse did not succeed in calling her back.
I tried to place a supply order and was startled to find out that my bank account was overdrawn. Knowing this had to be a mistake, I quickly checked my account online. Turns out an album company had mistakenly withdrawn a LARGE sum of money out of the account WITHOUT my having ever made a purchase.
After shooting off an irate email to the offending album company demanding a refund, I grabbed the nearest wedding deposit check and sped off to the bank to deposit it. The lady at the bank, informed me that because the name was partially scribbled out, she couldn't accept the check. Even though it's clearly initialed and everything's in the same handwriting and the same ink and it's a check drawn from an account in your OWN bank??? Nope. So sorry. You'll just have to get another check. I just drove away. I was so furious I was ready to cry. Why didn't I notice I was in the Newbie-teller line?? The other bank ladies are super nice and know me by name and would never ever send me packing over a misspelled word that was scribbled and initialed, anyway, for garsh sakes!!!
It has been my observation that bank tellers come in only two varieties: Supernice-no-problem-have-a-nice-day-oldtimers and Screw-you-those-are-the-rules-newcomers. When does the one evolve into the other? How long a process is that? Why are there no links between the two in the fossil record?
The couple who's afternoon appointment was the cause of my dragging all of my furniture back across the new floor(gouging it all. to. PIECES), called at the last minute to reschedule for another day--for the third time. Ahhhhhlllrighty, then.
And that was my day. Cause I'm done now. I'm sitting in front of the computer with a glass of week-old wine (who knew it kept that long?Huh.) and everything is quiet. Hilda eventually returned, all panting and exhausted and quite remarkably dung-free. The album company has agreed to refund the money back to my account, immediately. I'm contemplating calling up other kids on my road and offering them an extra couple of bucks to cut my lawn tomorrow. My makeup has congealed back into usable, though misshapen, forms. The nice bride who's scribbled-on check was deemed undepositable by the powers that be (damn them) has agreed to write me a new one. So, other than a wee little bit of residual bitterness about the picky teller and the gouged-up floor....I'm good. Life is good.
My folks are coming to stay the night with me Friday. They're coming into town to see Jack's baseball game and Savannah's ballet performance. I really wanted the floors to be done and the yard to look neat. I wanted to possibly cook something and have a bottle of their favorite wine chilled and waiting for them. It would appear that none of those things might now happen. The floor'll look crappy, the yard'll look sloppy and I'll be too freakin' poor to buy wine and victuals (depending on how fast that album co. actually refunds their ill-gotten gains!). But, it's okay. It's just wood and grass and alcohol--just things. I'll be spending time with my folks and be seeing the kids enjoying and excelling in their chosen activities. "No success in life can compensate for failure at home"(another one of my pithy little bulletin board quotes). "Failure" would be me making myself and those around me miserable because things didn't go my way,instead of just letting go and appreciating the time we have together as family members. So the heck with the lawn and the floors--they'll hold. :0)
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Pluggin' Along
It's really bugging me that I have all of this GREAT blogging material (garden club, floor woes, Hilda's antics, the boys' baseball, etc.) and no time to use it! But, I can't complain because business is good. I've booked 2 more weddings and 2 more wedding consultations since I last blogged. I just ordered some new equipment and am SO excited for it to arrive. There's going to be a learning curve, but the creative possibilities it will open up to me will make the process a joy. It has become apparent, however that I will have to buy another back-up camera pretty soon. I am not really an equipment-o-phile, I just spend on what I really need. I just don't particularly enjoy the researching and price shopping when it's time to get new gear. Heck, it took about 5 hours of sitting in front of the computer and making phone calls to figure out this last equipment order! Call me crazy, but that's just not fun for me. But I must admit is really is fun once the new toys are in my toybox!!!! COME OOOOON, UPS!!!!
I think I'm going to do a whole separate post on my floors complete with before and after pics. Heck, I could start a whole 'nother BLOG on my home improvement stuff. But suffice it to say, that the floors. look. AWESOME!!!!
They still need at least one more coat of poly, but I'll get to that when I can, it's no big rush now that they're sealed. They look SO good!!!!
The veggies are sprouting and the flowers are flourishing. I have no outside water supply, so it has become my evening habit to carry several gallons of water in the watering can from inside the house out to my precious flower and veggie patches. I'm finding I rather enjoy the labor. Strange.
My Little Buddy is warming up to me a bit more, I think. I see little glimmers of it once in a while, peeking through cracks in that seemingly impenetrable wall she keeps built up around her feelings. I've taken pictures of her and her friends doing their little dance routines and printed out an album for them. We've also made puppets and had an ice cream social with the other Little Buddies. She's actually asked me to come back and be her Big Buddy for the next grade level. I agreed, of course. I think that's progress. :0)
Savannah and I are going to start up with our art lessons again. I am really looking forward to it, though I will admit to a little anxiety. She is just SO good. It is really going to require a serious effort on my part to stay on top of things and teach at a level of skill high enough to truly benefit her. It will be a challenge, but I'm ready to take it on!
Well, little Q's now a preschool grad.It just doesn't seem possible. It feels like just last week he was just a tiny little round faced baby with the biggest blue eyes you ever saw. And now he's just a handsome little man. Crazy stuff. Congratulations, Q-man!
I think I'm going to do a whole separate post on my floors complete with before and after pics. Heck, I could start a whole 'nother BLOG on my home improvement stuff. But suffice it to say, that the floors. look. AWESOME!!!!
They still need at least one more coat of poly, but I'll get to that when I can, it's no big rush now that they're sealed. They look SO good!!!!
The veggies are sprouting and the flowers are flourishing. I have no outside water supply, so it has become my evening habit to carry several gallons of water in the watering can from inside the house out to my precious flower and veggie patches. I'm finding I rather enjoy the labor. Strange.
My Little Buddy is warming up to me a bit more, I think. I see little glimmers of it once in a while, peeking through cracks in that seemingly impenetrable wall she keeps built up around her feelings. I've taken pictures of her and her friends doing their little dance routines and printed out an album for them. We've also made puppets and had an ice cream social with the other Little Buddies. She's actually asked me to come back and be her Big Buddy for the next grade level. I agreed, of course. I think that's progress. :0)
Savannah and I are going to start up with our art lessons again. I am really looking forward to it, though I will admit to a little anxiety. She is just SO good. It is really going to require a serious effort on my part to stay on top of things and teach at a level of skill high enough to truly benefit her. It will be a challenge, but I'm ready to take it on!
Well, little Q's now a preschool grad.It just doesn't seem possible. It feels like just last week he was just a tiny little round faced baby with the biggest blue eyes you ever saw. And now he's just a handsome little man. Crazy stuff. Congratulations, Q-man!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
"Tom Jones" by Henry Fielding
I just finished reading it. If anyone else out there has read it, I would love to hear your thoughts/opinions on it. Personally, I was a little surprised at the graphic nature of some of the scenes, and the cavalier attitude towards women, in general. I know a good portion of it is meant to be humorous, but I question Mr.Fielding's brand of humor, as much of the "humor" seems to be at the expense of women. Perhaps it's just a peek into the male mindset of the day. Makes me very thankful to live in modern times, as screwy as they sometimes seem to be.
Much of my vegetable garden is planted,along with a patch of fresh herbs for cooking. My wildflower patch is coming up quite nicely and I added some gorgeous cat mint to my flower garden.
I'm going to attempt to rent the equipment I need to finish these blasted floors tomorrow. The last 2 times I tried, the Big Scary Sander was already rented out. If all goes as planned, and nothing unforeseen occurs, my floors will be FINISHED by Friday, WOOHOO!!
My Little Buddy meeting is tomorrow, as usual. Not much progress there, as far as I can tell, but I'm still plugging along. Sewing seeds, I hope.(?)
I went to my political party's district convention on Saturday, as a Delegate. It was great. There were great speakers and I actually got to have a say in the resolutions that my party will be trying to get passed. That feels good. I snapped some good pictures that MIGHT get used in statewide and/or nationally distributed campaign material. That would feel good, too.
I spent Mother's Day at the folks'. Dad cooked steak and baked potatoes and it was EXCELLENT. A perfectly succulent and tender medium rare. Mmmmmmm. Mom received some lovely bouquets and gifts and we all had a nice time just"passing pleasure", as Uncle R says. I think Mom had a nice day.
I took Q toad hunting and we had a big time at the pond making up silly words, and laughing at the dogs' antics in the water. W tickled me to death when he came to give me a goodbye hug. He pulled away from me and looked me in the eyes and said in a quiet and grave little voice "Happy Mudder's Day, Ann Tah-sina". He is just TOO cute.
I went bass fishing the next evening. I slowly and quietly paddled around the edges of the pond armed with a cigar, a good rod and reel and an artificial minnow lure---one of my favorite things to do in the world! Despite a cantankerous beaver and dogs that thought they needed to swim out and circle the boat every now and then, I managed to catch quite a few small bass and a couple of keepers, too.
The dogs were actually pretty funny. Elvis is an old hand at swimming , and I just expect him to swim out to me a couple of times anytime I'm in the boat. I occasionally even let him come out in the boat with me. But Little H is new to the water and had to be rescued twice, when she got caught in the underwater limbs of a fallen tree. She managed to get herself halfway over the limb and then was just stuck there in the deep water, little legs just flailing about like crazy, swimming as HARD as she could, eyes all HUGE, getting nowhere fast! It was like watching a cartoon! Funny dogs.
Business is good. Better than last year, this time. I was paid a HUGE compliment by a client, last week, that I want to record for posterity (or just to cheer me up when I come back and read it someday). I was hired to shoot the same wedding as one of the Big Well-known Been In Business for 25 Years Photographers in VA. (hiring TWO different photographers to cover a wedding is UNHEARD of, BTW, and normally one or both have a clause in their contract forbidding any other prof. photographer to be there. It was just a fluke, that this photographer didn't realize, until too late that the bride had hired me, too!). I delivered my images to the client and she said that MY images were better than his AND that I was much more pleasant to deal with!!! I'm still pretty much on cloud nine. :0D
Would it be wrong to put her quote on my business cards, do you think? "Thomasina's pictures are better than blank-blank's and she's nicer too". No? Ohhhh, okay. ROFL!!!!!!
Much of my vegetable garden is planted,along with a patch of fresh herbs for cooking. My wildflower patch is coming up quite nicely and I added some gorgeous cat mint to my flower garden.
I'm going to attempt to rent the equipment I need to finish these blasted floors tomorrow. The last 2 times I tried, the Big Scary Sander was already rented out. If all goes as planned, and nothing unforeseen occurs, my floors will be FINISHED by Friday, WOOHOO!!
My Little Buddy meeting is tomorrow, as usual. Not much progress there, as far as I can tell, but I'm still plugging along. Sewing seeds, I hope.(?)
I went to my political party's district convention on Saturday, as a Delegate. It was great. There were great speakers and I actually got to have a say in the resolutions that my party will be trying to get passed. That feels good. I snapped some good pictures that MIGHT get used in statewide and/or nationally distributed campaign material. That would feel good, too.
I spent Mother's Day at the folks'. Dad cooked steak and baked potatoes and it was EXCELLENT. A perfectly succulent and tender medium rare. Mmmmmmm. Mom received some lovely bouquets and gifts and we all had a nice time just"passing pleasure", as Uncle R says. I think Mom had a nice day.
I took Q toad hunting and we had a big time at the pond making up silly words, and laughing at the dogs' antics in the water. W tickled me to death when he came to give me a goodbye hug. He pulled away from me and looked me in the eyes and said in a quiet and grave little voice "Happy Mudder's Day, Ann Tah-sina". He is just TOO cute.
I went bass fishing the next evening. I slowly and quietly paddled around the edges of the pond armed with a cigar, a good rod and reel and an artificial minnow lure---one of my favorite things to do in the world! Despite a cantankerous beaver and dogs that thought they needed to swim out and circle the boat every now and then, I managed to catch quite a few small bass and a couple of keepers, too.
The dogs were actually pretty funny. Elvis is an old hand at swimming , and I just expect him to swim out to me a couple of times anytime I'm in the boat. I occasionally even let him come out in the boat with me. But Little H is new to the water and had to be rescued twice, when she got caught in the underwater limbs of a fallen tree. She managed to get herself halfway over the limb and then was just stuck there in the deep water, little legs just flailing about like crazy, swimming as HARD as she could, eyes all HUGE, getting nowhere fast! It was like watching a cartoon! Funny dogs.
Business is good. Better than last year, this time. I was paid a HUGE compliment by a client, last week, that I want to record for posterity (or just to cheer me up when I come back and read it someday). I was hired to shoot the same wedding as one of the Big Well-known Been In Business for 25 Years Photographers in VA. (hiring TWO different photographers to cover a wedding is UNHEARD of, BTW, and normally one or both have a clause in their contract forbidding any other prof. photographer to be there. It was just a fluke, that this photographer didn't realize, until too late that the bride had hired me, too!). I delivered my images to the client and she said that MY images were better than his AND that I was much more pleasant to deal with!!! I'm still pretty much on cloud nine. :0D
Would it be wrong to put her quote on my business cards, do you think? "Thomasina's pictures are better than blank-blank's and she's nicer too". No? Ohhhh, okay. ROFL!!!!!!
Friday, May 12, 2006
Too busy to post
So I'll just hit a few highlights and fill in the details later.
*Spent the weekend at the folks' with the fam, visiting with Uncle Roy and his brother. Good food, good company, soft bed. NICE.
*I hope Melissa doesn't kill me for posting this first, but I'm bursting with the news: Austin hit his first homerun!!!!!!!!! He slid headfirst into home and scored!!! It was SOOOO awesome to see!!
*On the way home from Mom&Dad's, I stopped to visit a good friend whom I haven't seen in months. We talked and laughed and made plans to get together over the summer.
*Hilda made her very first kill. I am such a proud Mommy! She appeared at the doorstep last night with a rabbit in her mouth. She had run it down and snapped it's neck. I really didn't think she had it in her! Perhaps my veggie garden will survive, after all!
*A couple of challenging portrait sessions have come and gone with successful results. Also, I've booked two more weddings and am scheduled to go to a Pro seminar next week with a friend--should be informative and fun!
*Heading to a district political meeting on Saturday with our local treasurer. I'm a Delegate. I guess I'll find out what that really means when I get there(?).
* My floors are still in a halfway state of completion. I just cant seem to find the time to get them finished! All of my living room furniture is in the kitchen and every time I have a session or consultation I have to rearrange the whole house. It's getting a little frustrating. Ah, well. There's always next week.
All in all, I'm WAY busy.
*Spent the weekend at the folks' with the fam, visiting with Uncle Roy and his brother. Good food, good company, soft bed. NICE.
*I hope Melissa doesn't kill me for posting this first, but I'm bursting with the news: Austin hit his first homerun!!!!!!!!! He slid headfirst into home and scored!!! It was SOOOO awesome to see!!
*On the way home from Mom&Dad's, I stopped to visit a good friend whom I haven't seen in months. We talked and laughed and made plans to get together over the summer.
*Hilda made her very first kill. I am such a proud Mommy! She appeared at the doorstep last night with a rabbit in her mouth. She had run it down and snapped it's neck. I really didn't think she had it in her! Perhaps my veggie garden will survive, after all!
*A couple of challenging portrait sessions have come and gone with successful results. Also, I've booked two more weddings and am scheduled to go to a Pro seminar next week with a friend--should be informative and fun!
*Heading to a district political meeting on Saturday with our local treasurer. I'm a Delegate. I guess I'll find out what that really means when I get there(?).
* My floors are still in a halfway state of completion. I just cant seem to find the time to get them finished! All of my living room furniture is in the kitchen and every time I have a session or consultation I have to rearrange the whole house. It's getting a little frustrating. Ah, well. There's always next week.
All in all, I'm WAY busy.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Easter '06!
Once again, Easter at Melissa's house was just awesome. All the family together enjoying good conversation and laughter in the setting of her newly (beautifully!) remodeled house. The kids all running around and playing and giggling, high on sugar. And of course there was the food:
Macaroni and cheese, fried cabbage (you know, the really exquisite kind with bacon and sugar? Heck yeh!), deviled eggs, pea salad, green salad, ham bicuits, asparagus with bernaise sauce, green beans-n-taters, glazed carrots...
Is that a pretty salad, or what!!
The Desserts required a whole 'nother buffet table unto themselves!
Let the feasting begin!!
Let the games begin! Easter Egg Hunt 2006!
This picture cracks me up!!!
The Big Kids did all the hiding and tallying of the eggs, this year...
Egg hunting works up quite an appetite--Jack and Q go back for seconds on the mac-n-cheese!
W had a blast with that toy gun! I SO dig that little "I'm gonna get you" smile!
A little tip: when penniless on Easter and in need of gifts for your niece and nephews, a little scrap material wrapped around a few pieces of candy and garnished with fresh flowers will work in a pinch! Ask me how I know this, LOL!
It was a great holiday spent with family and friends!! Thanks again, Melissa and family!!!
Macaroni and cheese, fried cabbage (you know, the really exquisite kind with bacon and sugar? Heck yeh!), deviled eggs, pea salad, green salad, ham bicuits, asparagus with bernaise sauce, green beans-n-taters, glazed carrots...
Is that a pretty salad, or what!!
The Desserts required a whole 'nother buffet table unto themselves!
Let the feasting begin!!
Let the games begin! Easter Egg Hunt 2006!
This picture cracks me up!!!
The Big Kids did all the hiding and tallying of the eggs, this year...
Egg hunting works up quite an appetite--Jack and Q go back for seconds on the mac-n-cheese!
W had a blast with that toy gun! I SO dig that little "I'm gonna get you" smile!
A little tip: when penniless on Easter and in need of gifts for your niece and nephews, a little scrap material wrapped around a few pieces of candy and garnished with fresh flowers will work in a pinch! Ask me how I know this, LOL!
It was a great holiday spent with family and friends!! Thanks again, Melissa and family!!!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
The Big Catch-up Post
A power surge during a thunder storm fried my internal modem and it's taken me over TWO WEEKS to locate and install a new external modem.On top of that, I forgot my password to Blogger (DUH!). Hence, the shameful lack 'o blogging!
Mac is a WONDERFUL computer system--until something goes wrong. Then you had better have signed up for their maintenance/repair warranty-service thingy or your up a creek--which I was. But, all is well again and my portal to the rest of the world (internet) is once again open. *happy sigh* I feel that I could write a whole other post expounding upon the joys of the internet...but not today. I've got too much catching up to do.
The last few weeks in a nutshell:
* Race is home!!!!!!!!!! :0D
*Two weddings completed successfully
*Had a great time babysitting Melissa's's kids
----hiking in the National Forest where Jack found many uber cool rocks to add to his collection, Savannah enjoyed watching Elvis/Hilda's antics in the creek and Austin got bruised and battered by a huge stone while climbing up a rocky cliff (I know that last bit sounds bad--and it WAS scary--but Austin is fine and now has this awesome story to tell his friends!!)
----We all went to see the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at the dollar theatre. I cried through practically the whole thing--- excellent and inspirational movie!!
----Had the opportunity to watch Jack doing his thing at baseball practice.The kid is GOOD!!! Got some awesome pics.
--The kids took me down to their creek where we hiked and waded and picked flowers and caught crawdads,etc.
----Thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of seeing the kids welcoming Race back home.
*Attended a lecture by the author of one of my FAVORITE books. Orson Scott Card, author of Ender's Game came to speak at a local college. Very interesting. I stayed afterwards and got my book autographed and had the great joy of telling the author just how much I enjoyed his work. That was cool.
*Attended the bi-annual Mass Meeting of my local political party and listened to our delegate give an update on the year's happening in the state legislature.Very informative. I also decided to be a delegate for the district's upcoming convention.
* A couple of fishing expeditions undertaken with success. A friend invited me to join their family fishing at a private lake and sent the booty home with me (bass,bluegill and crappy--YUM!!). Another friend invited me over to fish with he and his brother at their pond. They caught nothing while I hauled in two 3lb bass and several bluegill.
I tried not to rub it in, heh-heh. I cleaned them and fried them up for us all, so as to aid in the healing of any possible bruised male egos. :0D
*Lots of new flowers and herbs were planted in my flower beds and containers about the front of my house. These join my returning perennials to lend a very pleasing aspect to the front of my house This is my first real flower garden, so please pardon me if I'm bragging just a teeny bit ( *blush*).
* One of the biggest things that has been going on with me, has been the remodeling of my house. All the carpet has been ripped up in the living room and hallway. I rented a vibrating sander, but had NO luck getting the nasty old carpet glue off of the wood. So, with much fear and trembling, I went back to Aztec and rented the Big Sander. I had been cautioned by no less than four people that the Big Sander is a floor eating monster. But, I took the risk and MAN you should see my floors, now!!!! Even unfinished, they're BEAUTIFUL!! The Big Sander did the trick. It WAS big and heavy and I am now possessed of the forearms of Popeye (and quite possibly a small hernia from lifting it in and out of the car), but my floors look GREAT!! I can't wait to get the stain/poly down on them!
*Small bridal show, a couple of consultations and portrait sessions that all went very well.
* Easter at Melissa's house. A great time with the family and great food and the little ones running all over having a blast. I'll do a separate post with pictures and a detailed description of the food. Hang on, Dy, it's coming!!:0D
Mac is a WONDERFUL computer system--until something goes wrong. Then you had better have signed up for their maintenance/repair warranty-service thingy or your up a creek--which I was. But, all is well again and my portal to the rest of the world (internet) is once again open. *happy sigh* I feel that I could write a whole other post expounding upon the joys of the internet...but not today. I've got too much catching up to do.
The last few weeks in a nutshell:
* Race is home!!!!!!!!!! :0D
*Two weddings completed successfully
*Had a great time babysitting Melissa's's kids
----hiking in the National Forest where Jack found many uber cool rocks to add to his collection, Savannah enjoyed watching Elvis/Hilda's antics in the creek and Austin got bruised and battered by a huge stone while climbing up a rocky cliff (I know that last bit sounds bad--and it WAS scary--but Austin is fine and now has this awesome story to tell his friends!!)
----We all went to see the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at the dollar theatre. I cried through practically the whole thing--- excellent and inspirational movie!!
----Had the opportunity to watch Jack doing his thing at baseball practice.The kid is GOOD!!! Got some awesome pics.
--The kids took me down to their creek where we hiked and waded and picked flowers and caught crawdads,etc.
----Thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of seeing the kids welcoming Race back home.
*Attended a lecture by the author of one of my FAVORITE books. Orson Scott Card, author of Ender's Game came to speak at a local college. Very interesting. I stayed afterwards and got my book autographed and had the great joy of telling the author just how much I enjoyed his work. That was cool.
*Attended the bi-annual Mass Meeting of my local political party and listened to our delegate give an update on the year's happening in the state legislature.Very informative. I also decided to be a delegate for the district's upcoming convention.
* A couple of fishing expeditions undertaken with success. A friend invited me to join their family fishing at a private lake and sent the booty home with me (bass,bluegill and crappy--YUM!!). Another friend invited me over to fish with he and his brother at their pond. They caught nothing while I hauled in two 3lb bass and several bluegill.
I tried not to rub it in, heh-heh. I cleaned them and fried them up for us all, so as to aid in the healing of any possible bruised male egos. :0D
*Lots of new flowers and herbs were planted in my flower beds and containers about the front of my house. These join my returning perennials to lend a very pleasing aspect to the front of my house This is my first real flower garden, so please pardon me if I'm bragging just a teeny bit ( *blush*).
* One of the biggest things that has been going on with me, has been the remodeling of my house. All the carpet has been ripped up in the living room and hallway. I rented a vibrating sander, but had NO luck getting the nasty old carpet glue off of the wood. So, with much fear and trembling, I went back to Aztec and rented the Big Sander. I had been cautioned by no less than four people that the Big Sander is a floor eating monster. But, I took the risk and MAN you should see my floors, now!!!! Even unfinished, they're BEAUTIFUL!! The Big Sander did the trick. It WAS big and heavy and I am now possessed of the forearms of Popeye (and quite possibly a small hernia from lifting it in and out of the car), but my floors look GREAT!! I can't wait to get the stain/poly down on them!
*Small bridal show, a couple of consultations and portrait sessions that all went very well.
* Easter at Melissa's house. A great time with the family and great food and the little ones running all over having a blast. I'll do a separate post with pictures and a detailed description of the food. Hang on, Dy, it's coming!!:0D
Monday, April 03, 2006
A Four Dog Night
I had a couple of incredibly cute visitors mysteriously appear on my back deck one night last week. Is there perhaps a sign in my yard that indicates that cute, unwanted animals should be dropped here, because the chick that lives here is a big, giant succer and will take them in and care for them?
I can't find it, but the sign MUST be here somewhere! This is how I ended up with little Hilda, remember.
They were all cold and wet and shivering and terrified when I found them, so I brought them inside and made a bed for them in the bathroom. After partaking quite voraciously of the offered food, they settled in and went to sleep. It was a LONG night of whimpering and whining and restlesness from the puppies AND my dogs who are NOT used to canine visitors in their home. The next day, I let the little critters roam freely about the house and yard and interact with Elvis and Hilda (which was hilarious!!--Hilda's never encountered a dog smaller than herself before), while I finished the day's printing assignment. Later in the afternoon,
I packed them up and headed over to the local SPCA, where I was assured that they would be adopted very quickly. It was hard to let them go, but I just CAN'T have any more pets.
They were sweethearts, but one 4 Dog Night is all my tiny little household can handle. It was fun to have them visit for the day, though! :0)
I can't find it, but the sign MUST be here somewhere! This is how I ended up with little Hilda, remember.
They were all cold and wet and shivering and terrified when I found them, so I brought them inside and made a bed for them in the bathroom. After partaking quite voraciously of the offered food, they settled in and went to sleep. It was a LONG night of whimpering and whining and restlesness from the puppies AND my dogs who are NOT used to canine visitors in their home. The next day, I let the little critters roam freely about the house and yard and interact with Elvis and Hilda (which was hilarious!!--Hilda's never encountered a dog smaller than herself before), while I finished the day's printing assignment. Later in the afternoon,
I packed them up and headed over to the local SPCA, where I was assured that they would be adopted very quickly. It was hard to let them go, but I just CAN'T have any more pets.
They were sweethearts, but one 4 Dog Night is all my tiny little household can handle. It was fun to have them visit for the day, though! :0)
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